In this pic - what's the aluminum pole Velcro'ed to the boom? I'm assuming either a paddle or a boat hook or how you transport your tiller extender?

Also - Do you find that your Harken barberhauler cheek bearings wear out because they can't be removed from the boat in the off-season? Do you just disassemble the cheeks and install new nylon bearings every 2 years or so?

GREAT PICS!!!