2025 CWC-ACBS Year in Preview

The Columbia-Willamette Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society (CWC-ACBS) is gearing up for an exciting year filled with incredible events and classic boating adventures!

From the Annual Crab Feed in February to the CWC Symposium in April, and the Columbia-Willamette Chapter Boat Show in July, there’s something for everyone in 2025. Our community will come together for fun gatherings, educational opportunities, and, of course, to admire and celebrate timeless classic boats.

For more information about upcoming events, check out the full list on the CWC-ACBS website: CWC-ACBS Events.

We can’t wait to see you there!

The 2025 Portland Boat Show was a huge success, and we want to extend a big thank you to all the CWC-ACBS members who helped with the setup and manning the booth. Your hard work made this event possible, and we appreciate your dedication and support!

Along with the amazing club boats on display, we were thrilled to see a fantastic showing from the PT 658 organization. The highlight of their display was the impressive Packard V12 engine and a Torpedo, adding an extra layer of excitement for all attendees. The combination of classic boats, engines, and maritime history was truly a standout at the show.

Thank you to everyone who participated, and we look forward to another great year of classic boating events!

photos

Savoring Tradition: The 9th Annual Crab Feed at The Historic Butteville Store

On February 23, 2025, the heart of our community beat a little stronger as friends, old and new gathered at one of our most cherished spots, The Historic Butteville Store. The 9th Annual Crab Feed was not just an event; it was a celebration of tradition, camaraderie, and the simple joys that bind us together.

Every year, the legendary Ken Bakke undertakes a special pilgrimage to the rugged coast. Braving the crisp sea air and rolling waves, he brings back the freshest Dungeness crab, a true labor of love that ensures our feast is nothing short of extraordinary. This dedication transforms our gathering into more than a meal—it is a shared experience steeped in gratitude and community spirit.

The aroma of freshly steamed crab filled the air, mingling with laughter and the clinking of glasses. Attendees didn’t just indulge in delectable seafood; they also had the chance to win exciting prizes through our lively drawings, adding a dash of anticipation to the evening.

But the Crab Feed was about more than satisfying our appetites. Bill Bowling captivated us with an insightful presentation on our Chapter website as well as how to use Chat GPT. He unveiled hidden gems and features that many of us had not yet explored, opening doors to deeper engagement and connection within our chapter.

Following Bill’s enlightening session, Bob Nelson took the stage to demystify the ACBS website. His walkthrough highlighted the wealth of resources available at our fingertips—news, event calendars, workshop videos, and a trove of boating wisdom. Bob’s enthusiasm was contagious, inspiring many to set up their passwords and dive into the digital heart of our boating community.

In today’s interconnected world, these platforms are more than just websites; they are lifelines that keep us in touch, informed, and involved. If you have not already, we encourage you to create your accounts on both the Chapter and ACBS websites. Join discussions, share your stories, and stay updated on upcoming events—the possibilities are as vast as the open water.

If you would like to add a picture or article regarding a boating project or adventure, send pictures and captions to Bill Bowling at bill.bowling@me.com.

As the evening wound down, there was a palpable sense of excitement for what was to come. The Crab Feed serves as a reminder of a chapter that thrives on participation, shared passions, and the joy of coming together.

Stay tuned for more details on other events by regularly visiting our websites. Let’s continue to make memories, and forge friendships.

In embracing both tradition and innovation, we ensure that our community remains dynamic and connected. The 9th Annual Crab Feed was a testament to that spirit. Here’s to many more years of shared meals, stories, and adventures on and off the water.

Anchors aweigh and see you soon!

photos