Full Title: "International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians (IYFR) and Operation Plastic Free Waters" - The EmeraldPlanet TV© Full Theme: “Operation Plastic Free Waters of IRFR in Europe, Middle East, and Africa; Guest: Comandante Sergio Santi, International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians (IYFR), Theme: “Operation Plastic Free Waters of IRFR in Europe, Middle East, and Africa; Overview: International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians (IYFR0 )was formed in 1947 in Great Britain, making it the oldest continuously active fellowship in Rotary. IYFR is also the largest of the fifty-eight worldwide Rotary fellowships, with approximately 138 active “fleets” and around 4,000 members in over 40 countries. Member fleets are located in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Japan, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Poland, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, the USA, among others. IYFR fleets are Rotary Fellowship groups composed of individual Rotarians from multiple Rotary clubs which may be located in several different Rotary Districts. The fact that IYFR fleet members come from many clubs broadens the STAR potential for those with an IYFR fleet relationship. The International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians combines an acceptance of the principles of Rotary with a love of boats and the sea, rivers and inland waters, and uses the shared interest of yachting and seamanship as an opportunity to encourage and foster the objectives of Rotary. IYFR objectives are: 1) Advancing international understanding, goodwill and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideals of service; 2) Promoting Rotary fellowship through cruising, yachting, racing, sailing, kayaking and other activities involving boats and boating; 3) Promoting high standards of seamanship and abide by recognized yachting customs and etiquette on the water; and 4) Supporting Rotary service projects and opportunities, on and off the water. These objectives are conducive to cooperation between IYFR fleets and sail trainers wishing to build on the STAR relationship. .ABOUT THE STAR: The Star is one of the most prolific keelboats in the world for a reason: it is an incredible boat to sail. Designed in 1911 by Francis Sweisguth, it has proven to be a classic in every sense. It is the oldest Olympic class, having first been used in competition in 1932, and still at the heart of that competition today. Supported by a worldwide association the Star as a class is one of the best organized in sailing, with over 7,500 yachts built over its 80 year history, and 2000-plus actively racing today. The Star has evolved into the consummate craft for all ranges of competition and performance sailing: its equipment and rig is simple enough for the novice, yet versatile enough for those on the forefront of sailing. It's large, powerful sailplan, combined with a sleek hull and light weight, propel the boat in the faintest of airs, while the flexible spar can be tuned to "de-power" when the breeze kicks up. The large main is infinitely adjustable, allowing the sailor to completely control the driving surface of the sail. Boats today are generally constructed of fiberglass, with positive flotation and an integrated keel. The design, sails, and equipment of the Star are governed by stringent class rules, created to improve competition on the basis of skill and control cost . This has also served to help the longevity of the design, keeping older boats competitive through careful evolution. STAR: ART AND MACHINE