In a chat with Angelo DeMagistris, a longtime devotee of Mill Pond, we decided that it would be nice to remind people of what this spot offers. The most recent important event was held from Oct. 31 through Dec. 3 and was the annual Frostbite Regatta. Your reporter attended the racing on Oct. 31, which was a lovely day, warm and pleasant.

The photo shows skippers observing a "start," the beauty of the scene is difficult to describe; it is breathtakingly beautiful. From the pond walk, which elevated 5 to 6 feet above water, one can predict the action of the wind on the sails and can, with practice, predict wind shifts.

The six-race series took place in fine weather. Gloves were never required and ice on the pond was not a factor. Each day, nine heats were raced, with one throw-out allowed. A far cry from the present bitter weather conditions.

Lech Arcisnewski was first, with 35 points, Bob Lombard was second with 73.5 points, and Ralph Pappas was third with 86.5 point.

Lech's name has been added to the Frostbite Trophy which was donated in 1983 by Gino Matkovic, Bob Mitchell and Jim Moore and represents the 13th series since its inception. In addition, Lech, Bob and Ralph, a total of nine other skippers participated. Bob Mitchell is one of the last remaining members of the original sponsors of the Frostbite plaque.

On Feb. 12 at 10 a.m., the Mill Pond MYC will hold a meeting which will be open to all who may be interested in model yachting. You can see the three types of boats sailed at the Mill Pond as well as the major awards given over the years. Skippers will also be available to answer your various questions.

Finally, the Barbados Model Yacht Club will hold a three-day regatta on Feb. 4, 5, and 6, with boats, Soling One Designs, provided by the host club. The temperature is reported to be about 85 degrees. Peter Allen, the Barbados club sponsor, has sailed in several Mill Pond regattas including the Marblehead Nationals in 1998 and one race of the 1999 Frostbite series.