Volume 1 — Issue 1 — April, 2026

Welcome Aboard Our Newsletter!
A Message from Paul McLaughlin, President

Welcome to the inaugural issue of our newsletter. This publication will share our mission, history, current activities, and future goals with our community. Through these newsletters, we hope to keep you informed, engaged, and connected with the work and vision of Sail Salem.

Sailing fosters independence, teamwork, confidence, and respect for the sea. From very humble beginnings in 2007, Sail Salem has grown into an important contributor to the youth of Salem and the surrounding communities. Each season, young people gain not only sailing skills, but also life lessons in responsibility, perseverance, and working together. They also learn to respect and protect our waterways.

Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Organization

In 2006, Kim Driscoll, then the newly elected Mayor of Salem, recognized that although Salem sits on the water and has a rich maritime heritage, it lacked a community sailing program. She believed that young people in Salem should have the opportunity to connect with the ocean that defines the city.

Kathy Winn, Salem’s Deputy Planning and Community Development Director, was challenged to make it happen and she  engaged Dave Smith, Jason Yarrington, Jeff Earl, and Patty MacLeod to join together to launch Sail Salem. With the support of many generous donors, volunteers, and community partners, who contributed boats, funding, and countless hours of work, the organization quickly began to take shape. Since then, Sail Salem has served thousands of youths.

Our supporters and friends have made Sail Salem possible from the very beginning, and their commitment continues to sustain our mission.

As we look ahead, we are excited to share the milestones, stories, and achievements that have shaped Sail Salem. In future newsletters, we will highlight the people, programs, and partnerships that have helped us grow and that will guide us as we approach our 20th year.

Thank you to everyone who has supported Sail Salem—our donors, volunteers, instructors, families, and community partners. Your dedication ensures that the next generation can experience the joy of sailing and the lifelong lessons it provides. Together, we will continue to expand opportunities, strengthen our community, and keep Salem’s maritime spirit alive for years to come.

The 2026 Snowflake Regatta in Recognition of
Brad White

Each winter in early March, Sail Salem sailors, families, and friends gather in the mountains of New Hampshire for a special tradition—the Snowflake Regatta. The event brings our community together to ski, share camaraderie, and celebrate the spirit of sailing while awaiting the summer season. On March 7th, over 100 people attended this year’s event and 80 racers enjoyed a memorable day on the slopes at Mt. Cranmore!

The morning looked a little ominous but as usual Brad White sent a fabulous day for the race. The awards party was a lively celebration with top teams being awarded engraved Rumson’s Rum  bottles. The raffle and live auction had great prizes, with a favorite being a “dog gift bag” featuring a handmade dog leash.

In late 2022, Sail Salem lost beloved board member Brad White—a lifelong sailor, collegiate All-American, multiple national champion, and passionate advocate for youth sailing. In his honor, Sail Salem established the Brad White Scholarship Fund, ensuring that no young sailor is left on the dock because of financial barriers.

Since 2023, the Snowflake Regatta has been held in Brad’s name, raising funds and awareness for the scholarship program and continuing his commitment to expanding access to youth sailing. A Snowflake warm-up party in late February kicks off the festivities. This year’s gathering was held on February 18th at Sea Level Restaurant in Salem

We thank Board member and Chair of Snowflake, JuLee Colella, and her entire team of volunteers who make this so special.

New Boating Certificate Requirements Go Into Effect THIS year!

It’s official: the Hanson Milone Act is now in effect for anyone who was born after January 1, 1989. As of April 1, 2026, anyone who operates a motorized vessel — including powerboats, PWCs, and sailboats under engine power — must be licensed. Get your Boating Safety Certificate in time for the summer season! If you were born before January 1, 1989, you have until 2028 to complete your certification.

Sail Salem is joining forces with the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Marblehead Flotilla 04-03, to offer a class on April 25, 2026. Class size is limited, so please register!

Class Details:

Enrollment is limited. Advance registration is required.

Summer Sailing Camp Registration Now Open

Our core has always been our youth sailing programs delivered in a summer camp format. We welcome kids of all skill levels. Spots are filling up quickly. Find out about availability and register for this summer’s camp on our website.

We Care!

Sustaining the ocean and protecting the local coastline is vital to our mission. Our STEAM education program teaches responsible stewardship of our marine environment and is an important part of our camp curriculum.

Providing Unforgettable Experiences

Sail Salem connects our community to the sea through historic sailing, maritime education, and hands-on experiences on the water. Your donation helps maintain our watercraft and equipment and expand our STEAM educational program. Every gift helps keep our sails full and our mission moving forward.

Our community is the wind behind our sails.
Thank you for being a part of it!