Contents What Weighs About 60 lbs and Floats?......2 An Auxiliary for Tomorrow............................3 Look Ahead and Appreciate the Past..........4 A View From a DCAPT in 9CR.....................5 We Are All Doing “P”.....................................6 1457 VSC’s! How and Why Flotilla 20-12 Did It!........................................7 Don’t Become Too Pooped to Participate!.11 “YAGOTTAWANNA”......................................12 Thinking Outside the Box: In the Tank.......13 Tipping Points & Headlights: The Bird is the Word......................................14 Pat Yourself on the Back – PV’ers...............15 District Web Presence...................................16 Spring Training Conference Photos ..........17 2013 District Awards......................................18 Flotilla 28-01 Assists Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Ice Caves .....................20 VE Update: Electric Distress Lights.............21 The 2014 Detroit Boat Show.........................22 Last Patrol of 2013..........................................23
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What Weighs About 60 lbs and Floats? Llorens Chenevert, District Commodore It’s been a long winter and I’m relatively sure there will be a spring this year. As we all know, spring in the 9th Central commences the boating season. It’s the time we have a lot more interaction with the boating public outdoors and on the water. A few of the ways we engage recreational boaters are through vessel safety checks; increased program visitations, PA events, and performing operational missions. We’ve all had a zillion conversations with fellow Auxiliarists about boating. It’s only natural because; after all, we are the world’s premier volunteer recreational boating safety organization. We cut our teeth learning the capabilities of the vast variety of power and sail vessels. We are experts but, one area of RBS I think the majority of us could use a lot more exposure to, is in the fastest increasing area of boating. That is paddle sports. Paddle craft are the most economical vessels available. You can take one of these 60 pounders home for about $150.00, maybe less. At a meeting I recently attended everyone noticed the proliferation of vehicles observed carrying paddle craft. One member humorously commented that he thought every Subaru came with a kayak lashed to the top. Paddle craft includes canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and paddleboards to name a few. They have some of the same properties and concerns of power and sail craft, but there are also significant differences when operating one of these. They traditionally ride much lower to the water’s surface thereby making them more difficult for others to spot. The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators recognizes the need to address the increase in the numbers of paddle craft and paddlers, and the potential for accidents and fatalities. Over 4 million canoes and kayaks have been purchased since 1998 and the number is growing. A significant number of new paddlers lack the skills and knowledge to safely pursue the sport. Capsizing and hypothermia in cold water is a serious concern. Eighty percent of paddle craft drowning results from capsizing and /or immersion in cold water. According to the American Canoe Association, some of the skills and equipment needed for a successful outing are: Ÿ
Wear a life jacket
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Dress for the unexpected flip
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File a float plan
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Small repair kit with duct tape
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Assess the boats flotation needs
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VHS radio and GPS locator
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Be a swimmer
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First aid kit with matches
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Carry a spare paddle
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Dry bag with extra clothing
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UV eye protection
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Hat, helmet, and eye protection.
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Wear appropriate clothing
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Tow rope
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Carry a compass, chart, map, whistle or sounding device
This list isn’t all inclusive, but it makes for an intelligent exchange when encountering a paddler. An offer to perform a VSC for them might well be appreciated. There’s always an item or two the paddler may have forgotten or didn’t think of. Our Vessel Safety Check form 7012A incorporates all of this information and more along a number of pertinent recommended discussion items. Take a look at it. Become familiar with it. There’s literature available for classes, PA events, encounters with paddlers at beaches, parks, marinas, and parking lots with kayaks on the roof. We have the tools. Let’s use them to take advantage of the numerous opportunities to perform more “preventative SAR”. Back to Page 1
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An Auxiliary for Tomorrow Mark R Villeneve, District Chief of Staff Since the establishment of the Coast Guard Auxiliary by Act of Congress in 1939 to the current day the role of the Auxiliary has changed, refocused, and recently expanded. Throughout that history, it has been the membership of the Auxiliary that has provided the volunteer manpower and skills that serve as the current vital resource of the organization. It is the membership which represents the most valuable resource of the Auxiliary. Maintaining a robust and viable Auxiliary volunteer force is essential in order to accomplish our three primary missions, recreational boating safety. Additionally, providing trained crews and facilities to augment and enhance the safety and security of citizens, and supporting the Coast Guard in their operational, administrative and logistical requirements further places demands on the Auxiliary that will need to be met. Today, no less than 63 percent of Auxiliarists in the Ninth Central region are aged 60 and above. Fully one third are 70 and above. These statistics demonstrate the imperative that currently exists to recruit the next generation of the Auxiliary. A plan of purposeful, aggressive, and at times focused recruitment can achieve the critical resources necessary in order to actualize the current and future vision of the Auxiliary. Often mentioned within Ninth Central Region is that a responsibility of each member is that they recruit one, retain one, and recognize one. This statement not only highlights the importance of bringing the next member into the Auxiliary, it also emphasizes a second aspect of maintaining membership; that of an ability to retain members. Bringing each member back to the original motivation that created their interest in volunteerism and occasioned their enrollment may help stem the exit from the Auxiliary. Recognition of the valuable and at times challenging work of Auxiliarists is necessary and expected so that the membership has no doubt as to the necessity and appreciation of their efforts. As the Auxiliary changes to meet the varying needs of our country, a strong, diverse, trained, and talented membership will allow the Auxiliary to become fully operationalized, actualized and recognized as the premier volunteer organization that it is.
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Look Ahead and Appreciate the Past Commander Nathan Podoll, Director of Auxiliary, Ninth District Happy Spring, Shipmates! Put away the snow and ice now, Polar Vortex! What an amazing, memorable winter we’ve had, and you didn’t waste a minute. No hibernating members here! You were out there in the driving snow educating the public at boat shows, teaching Boating Safety classes, and planning for summer operations. Recreational Boating Safety outreach is a major mission of the Auxiliary, and you execute it well! Your hard work paid off, demonstrated by your innovative partnership with the Belle Isle aquarium to set up a water safety display, among others. You’ve listened to membership, focusing time and energy on leadership training, streamlining business meetings to respect busy schedules. Outstanding! Now spring is here melting the ice and snow – however reluctantly. Boats are going back in the water, and summer will arrive soon. Before that, another education phase kicks in, as the air warms, but hypothermia lurks in the cold water. You have the local knowledge on when and where to share. We have so much to celebrate this year, and I wish you a joyous 75th Anniversary – you’re stronger than ever! Keep your Headlights focused forward maintaining your positive, life affirming message. Don’t forget your smile, we’ll be interacting with the public in the sun soon during Safe Boating Week activities and other events! Traveling the District, I meet Auxiliarists from every walk of life, each with a unique story of why they joined the Coast Guard Auxiliary. These differences make us stronger, and better able to reach the public with our Recreational Boating Safety message. Let me share a story of a courageous member of our Coast Guard family – Ms Florence Finch. She was the first woman to receive the AsiaticPacific Campaign ribbon. When the Japanese invaded the Philippines, her husband was killed in combat on his PT boat in early 1942. She disguised her American connections and got a job working for the Philippine Liquid Fuel Distribution Union, diverting shipments to the resistance and cueing intelligence for acts of sabotage. When she learned her former boss, Lieutenant Colonel Engelhart, and other Prisoners of War were being maltreated in captivity, she provided food and medicine to be smuggled to them. She was captured in October 1944, tortured, and after a sham trial, sentenced to three years hard labor. She was liberated in February, 1945, and moved to New York, where she chose to enlist in the Coast Guard SPARs “to avenge the death Sea1c Florence of my husband”. She was awarded the Medal of Freedom in 1947 Ebersole Smith, for her bravery and “making a distinct contribution to the welfare USCGR (W), 1945 and morale of American Prisoners of War on Luzon”. Of her wartime activities she would state: "I felt very humble because my activities in the war effort were trivial compared with those of people who gave their lives for their country." In 1995 the Coast Guard honored her service by naming an administration building on a base on Sand Island, Hawaii, after her. She lives today in upstate New York. I love her servant heart, the humility. Her story personifies Admiral Midgette’s directive of caring for our workforce. Every day, the challenges of life confront members wearing Silver or Gold. Every person you come in contact with is an opportunity to learn from them, and make their lives better. The listening ear. The sage advice to young Coast Guard personnel changes their life – and yours – for the better. The conversation with fellow Auxiliarists about challenges they face. The topic matters little - what matters is you care, and you show it by taking time for a Shipmate. As you do, you give life to our shared Core Values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty. You’re always mentoring a new leader. They will become Public Back to Page 1
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Continued from page 4 Education Instructors, Flotilla Commanders, and Station OIC’s. I saw the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary become stronger last during your District Training event this spring in Dearborn, MI. Leaders of another recreational boating safety organization mentioned they wanted to join the Auxiliary too because of the passion for sharing our story and caliber of caring they observed between members. That’s what attracts new members, and keeps existing ones coming back. Thank you for everything you do, bettering our country, communities, and Coast Guard family! Congratulations on the first 75 years of outstanding service, and here’s to 75 more! 1 U.S. Coast Guard 2012. “Florence Ebersole Smith Finch, USCGR (W).” Accessed April 14, 2014. http://www.uscg.mil/history/people/FlorenceFinchBio.asp
A View From a DCAPT in 9CR Robert Stauffer, District Captain, South
Recently, I was asked to write an article for the Mainstream. So, what to write about? I thought for awhile and sure enough there it was right in front of me. Since becoming DCAPT–South I’ve had the opportunity to visit Divisions 16 and 18 each month. What I have seen over the past sixteen months is how the membership has stepped up to the many challenges that have been asked of them, from the individual member to the Flotilla and to the Division. The men and women of these Divisions have gone the extra mile to not only improves their abilities but their skills in supporting the many missions of the United States Coast Guard at Stations Belle Isle, Toledo and Marblehead. These abilities and skills were used at such events as The Detroit Freedom Festival, Detroit River Run, The Gold Cup Races, Boating on the Maumee, The War of 1812, The Boy Scout Jamboree, and the list goes on and on. The results of all this hard work can be seen in the awards and recognitions many of the members and Flotillas have received in the past sixteen months. Recently, these Divisions were asked to take on the assignment of supporting Port Security Unit 309 out of Port Clinton, Ohio. An Open House was held this past December, 2013, where a number of members from both Divisions came to see what the PSU 309 Unit was looking for. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with the Commanding Officers to see how things were going. They could not stop telling us how grateful they were for the number of members wanting help them out on their duty weekends. This could not have been done if these members did not input their skills into the Auxiliary’s Skills Bank. The future of this program looks strong due to the members of Divisions 16 and 18. So, as DCAPT-South for the remaining time I have in this position I’ll be proud to shake everyone’s hand in these Divisions because they have taken on many challenges and assignments and have completed them successfully.
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We Are All Doing “P” Joe Gregoria, DDC-P What does the P stand for-----Prevention. The incident you are about to read was observed on September 14, 2013. To my knowledge no accident investigation has taken place, and no one was named as being responsible for the incident. The names have been omitted to protect the individuals involved in the incident. My wife, Maryann, an Auxiliarist, and I were with a fellow Auxiliarist Jimmy Cusic, and his wife Kathy, on their boat September 14, 2013, having a late afternoon adult drink before dinner, a little after 3:00PM. We then heard a loud explosion just out side of the boat. We all got up went outside and looked in the direction of the noise and saw a very large black cloud of smoke coming from the gas docks, and we also noticed a lot of commotion. We saw a boat that was on fire about 30 feet from the dock and a dock attendant trying to put out the fire with a small fire extinguisher. The attendant trying to put out the fire was al least 30 feet away from the boat. The fire did lie down but in just a minute or so the fire once again engulfed the entire boat. We then heard sirens in the back ground; the first on the seen was the local police, just a few minutes later the volunteer Fire and Rescue arrived, and then an ambulance. We made our way over to the dock, as did other people in the marina to offer assistance. After we arrived on scene we noticed four people that were quite shaken. Three people had gone into the water, the operator, a passenger and one of the dock attendants, and a boat that was on fire and billowing heavy black smoke. Oh, did I mention the boat had just filled up with fuel (Gasoline). My question, to all of you that took the time and read this article, was this accident preventable? Do you believe that this accident could have been prevented through. 1 Public Education 2 Vessel Safety Check 3 Checking for fuel vapors with your nose 4 Having a permanent Fuel Vapor Detector This is a good topic for your students in your next class. Don’t forget that there may have been a safety recall for the boat due to a manufacture defect? In the end, the local Fire department could not determine the cause of the accident and labeled it as a mechanical malfunction. I spoke to the Marina manager a few days later and he mentioned that the electrical system including the switches had melted due to the heat, and it could not be determined if the blower switch was in the “on” position. As an Auxiliarist I still have a few questions “Did the operator follow all the safety guide lines before starting the engine?” We will never know. The outcome of the accident was that only one person was treated on scene for minor injuries. The dock attendant and operator were thrown into the water and had no visual injuries, just wet. Anyway most everyone in the Auxiliary does (P) prevention, whether it’s passing out information at a Public Affairs event, doing a Vessel Safety Check, checking on and updating Navigation Aids, working with students at a Public Education Class, answering a question of a fellow boater at a marina or while on Safety Patrol. Maybe you are a Program Visitor and you stock the racks and put out information about the next Safe Boating Class or an upcoming Vessel Safety Check Surge. Or perhaps you are working with Marine Safety or the one training our members (MT) to do a better job. No mater what you are doing you are most likely involved in prevention. If you would like to see a photo of the incident and read the article about this explosion, go to the link listed below. The article was published in The News-Herald © and written by Laura Zoochi. http://www.thenewsherald.com/articles/2013/09/20/news/doc523c6aba446a4476938576.txt Back to Page 1
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1457 VSC’s! How and Why Flotilla 20-12 Did It! Mike Dziekan, Aid to District Staff Officer - Vessel Exams At the 2014 9th Central Region Spring Conference members of the Flotilla 20-12 Vessel Examination Team received the Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation for completing 1457 Vessel Examinations, Ranked second in the nation. Over the past several months our team has been asked how we completed the task. This is an attempt to capture how we accomplished the numbers. Let’s start with motivation factors. Motivation can be different for each of us. Some like to get to the ramp at 0530 before the boats arrive to the ramp to soak in the serene surroundings, then, when boats begin to show up…what else are you going to do? That’s right VSC’s! Others work different shifts and as a result didn’t get much “face time” with people but being at the ramp early was a perfect fit for their schedules. For some, a factor is awards and recognition; members wanted to work toward their RBS Device. Another factor is to help your fellow boater be as ready, as possible, to boat safely. Really, there are several motivational factors, so choose your motivation and simply get to the ramp or marina. It’s time to look at a few statistics and why performing Vessel Safety Checks are important. Under the authority of Title 46, United States Code, the U.S. Coast Guard is delegated with publishing statistical information obtained from casualty reporting systems. The following statics can be found at http://www.uscgboating.org/ - The U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Resource Center’s 2012 Recreational Boating Accident Statistics - Link.
Source: http://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/workflow_staging/Page/705.PDF
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Continued from page 6 By reviewing the above ACCIDENT, CASUALTY & DAMAGE DATA BY STATE 2012 table and PERCENT OF DEATHS BY KNOWN OPERATOR INSTRUCTION, 2012 pie chart, you can see (in the 9th Central home states) there were 323 accidents resulting in 42 deaths and $1,213,519 in damages. Also, it can be inferred that the United States’ boating public is still lacking proper instruction. While these numbers have been trending down over the past few years, work on our part is still needed to help ensure the boating public is aware of safe boating practices and that the required safety gear is in place on their vessels. It is a great opportunity for us to help. In 2013, the 9th Central Region performed 5260 Vessel Safety Checks. This, in itself, is no small undertaking and as a volunteer organization we should be commended by our efforts.
Source: AUXINFO using the AUXDATA Unit Activities Cube
Source: http://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/workflow_staging/Page/705.PDF In our home states, the total of registered vessels is over 1.2 million. By doing “the math”, our efforts have only scratched the surface. We definitely have an opportunity to keep assisting our fellow boaters as there is no shortage of boats to examine! Another statistic that caught my eye was the number and percent of deaths by vessel length.
Source: http://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/workflow_staging/Page/705.PDF Though the numbers shown are for the United States as a whole, the distribution by vessel length is alarming. The fact that most of the deaths on our waterways are reported on vessels less than 26 feet in length is staggering. By now, you may be wondering: “Hey Mike – What’s with all the statics?” For myself, I see them as a motivating factor for those mornings when I don’t want to get out of bed to perform VSC’s. How would I feel if I could have stopped someone from getting hurt or worse because I didn’t go?!? Back to Page 1
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Continued from page 8 I should also point out that fellowship is a perfect motivator as well. Not only do you get to spend time doing what you love (being around boats and the water) you also get the opportunity to create lasting friendships with those who have a similar passion. It is great sharing experiences with fellow boaters and compare great stories. For example, last year while performing a VSC, I was explaining the uses of the boats sound producing device. To my surprise, the boater felt that the primary use was to alert another boater, not for giving a passing signal or hidden bend signal , but to announce to another boater that the other boater who was doing something wrong. Or another boater who couldn’t show me their PFD’s because there cabin was “too full of water” while the boat was still on its trailer. I then asked the boater to show me that their bilge pump was working…it was. Luckily, I jumped out of the way after the battery switch was turned on. Then I asked if they had any tools to remove their drain plug. The quick answer was no, but they hada set of jumper cables and figured out a way to make them work as a set of pliers. This was a great opportunity to talk about boating basics to them! These “war” stories are great to pass the slow times at the ramp!
: Mark Volkman of Flotilla 20-12 performing a VSC
Okay, now to the most important topic of this article: Talking about best practices for successful Surge Operations or how we did it! * Find a busy ramp. We felt it was important to seek out ramps that cater to the high focus (see 7012 form) groups of boater or those less than 26 feet in length. A lot of boats in this size range are used for fishing, are PWC’s, or are Paddle Craft (please note that the 7012a is used for PC). In some cases these vessels have less to check for and the time it takes to perform these is shorter than for larger vessels. Remember these are high focus due to their higher accident/fatality rates. * Get to the ramp early. A lot of fishermen get underway in the early hours. Time is precious to us. You don’t have to spend the whole day at the ramp. I like to use my boat too! Besides, it gets pretty hot for ODU’s after the noon sun heats up the day! Continued on Page 10 Back to Page 1
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Continued from page 9 * Bring a “clip-board” and have a few forms pre-filled out with items including the incidentals (date/time/signature/etc.). Last year, most boats had a previous years VSC sticker and know the routine. It makes the VSC’s much faster over the course of a day and you don’t waste the boaters (or your) time while they wait for you to fill out the paperwork. * Be careful not to rush a VSC. Remember to give appropriate “face-time” and answer any questions. * Please be courteous. Some boaters don’t want a VSC and that’s that. Be careful not to get in the way of these boaters or overly “clog” up the ramp. They may come back later and request you to give them a VSC at a later date. Try to do your VSC’s in the staging area while the boater is getting ready to launch. * Get members involved/active. The larger ramps can accommodate more members. At most of our surges, we at least had 5 members present (more was better). If your flotilla is not extremely active, give the 20-12 FSO-VE a call we would be glad to have you at our events! * Bring a few refreshments. It gets warm on the ramp or at marinas. Also you will do a lot of talking and your throat will dry up. * For marina activity. Give the marina plenty of notice. Many marinas have weekly email updates and newsletters. Get on their event schedule. SHOW UP if you made an event agreement! * Get the word out. Talk to your FSO-MT and FSO-PV. There are nice VSC Posters available and make great advertisements for the Auxiliary. * Take breaks and stay fresh on the ramp/marinas. No one likes a cranky VE! * There is dedication needed as well. Some of our high producing members spent several mornings per week at the ramp. With our busy schedules, this is pretty difficult. * Most importantly, please make sure you inform your FSO-VE or FC if you are planning to do VSC’s. This is for insurance purposes and can be covered if the unforeseen arises. * Lastly, please fill out your 7038 forms. I can’t stress this enough. It is important to take credit for the Auxiliary, your Flotilla and yourself! These numbers are placed in a database and reviewed for data trends to improve Recreational Boating Safety! In summary, our VSC program is extremely important to recreational boater safety. Looking at the statistics, there is still plenty of room for the Auxiliary to make huge impacts on the safety. It is important to look and act professional at all events. Finally, you may come up with your own “war” stories that you can share with your new friends and have a few laughs at your next fellowship event. Who knows?
The “Mainstream” is published three times per year by the Ninth Central Region, United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, John Socha, Editor, at no cost to the US Coast Guard or the Government. Mail articles to 7242 Flamingo, Algonac, MI 48001, E-mail
[email protected] . Llorens Chenevert,, District Commodore; Mark Villeneuve, District Chief of Staff; Robert Stauffer, District Captain-South; Don Pryjmak, District CaptainCentral; Richard Carver, District Captain-North. Confidentiality Notice: PRIVACY ACT OF 1974: The disclosure of the pers7onal information contained in this publication is subject to the provisions contained in the Privacy Act of 194. The subject Act, with certain exceptions, prohibits the disclosure, distribution, dissemination or copying of any material containing the home address, home telephone number, spouses names, and social security numbers, except for official business. Violations may result in disciplinary action by the Coast Guard and/or civilian criminal sanctions. Back to Page 1
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Don’t Become Too Pooped to Participate! Bob Shafer, Distric Directorate Chief, Response We all get tired from time to time, usually at the end of our day. But we can become lethargic and fatigued at other times, as well. Fatigue is a normal result of life’s activities, including work, over or under stimulation, physical and mental activity and stress, as well as lack of sleep. Although there can be other medical causes of fatigue, for most of us, we get fatigued from trying to pack too much activity into too little time, without enough rest. Although either our muscles or our minds can become fatigued, usually both are affected. Fatigue can be insidious because it manifests itself gradually, reducing our mental and physical capabilities over time. We lose energy, our physical and mental performance deteriorates and we have difficulty concentrating. When sufficiently fatigued, we become somnolent, drowsy. We may “microsleep” where we lose awareness and focus for several seconds. We may simply nod off, in spite of our best efforts not to. Needless to say, this is very dangerous when we’re on the water, in the air or behind the wheel. This was really brought home to me recently when an acquaintance dozed off while driving and had a serious accident. His day had started early and he drove three hours to participate in an important meeting. The meeting was quite involved and took several hours. He appeared tired after the meeting, so much so that other participants recommended that he get a room for the night. But he felt that he had to get home that evening. He had been caring for another family member who was ill. That care had been taking a lot of time, adding to his stress and cutting into his sleep. Midway into his three-hour drive home, his fatigue caught up with him. He nodded off and had a serious accident. Fortunately, even though he totaled his car, his injuries were relatively minor. He’s very lucky that it wasn’t much worse. This is a great example of how fatigue can impair our judgment. Although other people saw that he was in no shape to be driving, he thought he was OK. He let “get-home-itus” get the best of him. Let my friend’s sudden unsafe sleep be a wake up call to all of us about the perils of fatigue. To help us avoid becoming too fatigued to operate our Auxiliary facilities safely, there are fatigue standards written into our Auxiliary operational policies. Do you know what the fatigue limits are for your kinds of operations? Do you know where to find them? Do you follow them? Do you know when you are too tired to be safe? The Operations Policy Manual mentions fatigue in several places. Chapter 1, Sections H and J, tell us that both the Order Issuing Authority (OIA) and the facility operator are responsible for ensuring that all crew members comply with appropriate crew fatigue standards. Chapter 4, Section E. 8, lists Boat Crew Fatigue Standards. Do you know what they are without looking? Hint: They are listed in a matrix that takes into account the size of the boat and the sea conditions. This matrix lists the maximum number of hours allowed underway in the listed conditions, as well as the amount of required rest needed before going out on another patrol. Annex 1, B2, lists the Air Crewmember Fatigue limits. Again, these are listed in the form of a matrix that takes into account the type of aircraft. Although there are no published fatigue limits for radio facility operators, common sense should prevail. Multiple Watchstanders can be used to allow relief during long stretches of activity. It’s important that we consider our total fatigue state, and not just these fatigue limits, when evaluating our fitness to operate. Did you have a good night’s sleep? Did you work a full day before starting your mission? Are you under any unusual stress? Are you hungry, feeling well, and properly hydrated? Remember, although the OIA and the facility operator are responsible for keeping track of crew mission time and associated fatigue limits, they don’t know what you were doing before you reported for the mission. Only you know how fatigued you are. It’s your responsibility to be honest with yourself and with your fellow crewmembers. Every crewmember is obligated to assess their own fitness to serve. As our long and difficult winter gives way to spring and better weather (or so we hope), let’s all keep those fatigue limits in mind. Be fit, be proficient and have a great, safe operational season!
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“YAGOTTAWANNA” COMO Jerri A. Smith, Division Commander 24 When I was in elementary school, junior high and high school, about a million years ago, I was a band nerd. Yeah, imagine that. But, I LOOOVED being a band nerd. I proudly remained a band nerd throughout my college career. But, band was always a volunteer activity. Always. Nobody forced you to be in the band. You HAD to take math. You HAD to take English. You didn’t HAVE to take band. You WANTED to be in the band. I walked into the band room the first day of my sophomore year at my new high school, and there was a huge poster above the band director’s head that read, “YAGOTTAWANNA.” Huh? I thought about that for a second and then the light bulb came on: Ya gotta wanna. Ohhhhh. I get it. You gotta WANNA be in the band. Ya gotta WANNA practice. Ya gotta WANNA do it. You know where I’m going with this. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is a volunteer activity. Nobody forced you to join. But, you did. Nobody forced you to run for elected office. But, if you did, you took an oath. Whether it was last month, or last year, or 20, 30, 40 or 50 years ago, you took an oath. “You have offered your talents and services in the interest of a better Coast Guard Auxiliary.” Yes, you have OFFERED. You stepped up. You wanted to be a part of this great organization. You wanted to lead, whether it be as a member of the staff or a part of the bridge. Do you see some “yougottawanna” there? I do. “The pledge you are about to take admits you to an office of greater responsibilities and high honor.” Greater responsibilities and high honor? Oh yeah, there’s definitely some “yagottawanna” in that sentence! And, that oath, as it continues, remains eloquent, but the bottom line of it pretty much says “YAGOTTAWANNA.” So, where am I going with all of this? I’m just saying that, in order to be a good leader, at any level, in any position, yagottawanna do the job. There are deadlines to be met – and yagottawanna meet them. There are forms that need to be completed – and yagottawanna complete them. There may be articles that you need to write – and yagottawanna write them. YAGOTTAWANNA do what you have offered to do. Nobody can do it for you. Do it with pride and do it well. It needs to come from inside you. The desire of doing your job, doing it competently, and doing it on time, is something yagottawanna do. Sometimes you might have to dig deep to get it done; but it’s something yagottawanna do. Because, “you offered your talents and services...” YOU DID. Nobody did it for you. “As a leader, you are charged with maintaining high standards in all Auxiliary programs and activities, never compromising honesty and integrity.” Being charged with maintaining high standards in ALL Auxiliary programs and activities is something yagottawanna do. So, please remember, as I have, since I first entered that band room over 40 years ago… YAGOTTAWANNA. To be the best Auxiliarist you can be…yagottawanna. Back to Page 1
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Thinking Outside the Box: In the Tank Kristen Iglesias, District Staff Officer, Public Affairs The Auxiliary is always on the lookout to promote its message of boating safety. At the beginning of last year, an unusual opportunity presented itself. Belle Isle Aquarium is located in Belle Isle State Park. It was the oldest continually operating aquarium when it closed in 2005. The aquarium was reopened in 2012 by the Belle Isle Conservancy, a non-profit volunteer group. While the volunteers are working to restore the Aquarium's tanks, the empty tanks are available for displays. Since early 2013, the Auxiliary has had a display in the largest tank in the aquarium, an approximately 12 by 12 foot area. The space is maintained by Division 20 members, Gary Pastiva, Nancy Pryjmak and me. In addition to the display inside the tank, Gary Pastiva constructed a stand to hold boating safety material, which sits next to the tank. Aquarium visitors are able to help themselves to the pamphlets. Putting the exhibit together is at times somewhat of an adventure. Everything that goes into the tank has to first go up a ladder, onto a catwalk, and either down a second ladder or be lowered to a person in the tank. The large size of the tank allows for a variety of displays. Currently there is a board promoting ice safety for all the ice fishermen in the area. Another board depicts the four cornerstones of the auxiliary. There is a display to promote the wearing of life jackets along with a variety of actual life jackets and another display on marine pollution. Information on how to contact the Auxiliary for Boating Safety Classes and Vessel Exams is also shown. Approximately 700 people visit the aquarium each Saturday and see our Boating Safety Exhibit. Additionally, for events such as Shiver on the River, the Auxiliary had a PA table. Public Affairs is not confined to boat shows. Diversify and think of other venues. Boaters, fishermen, and water sport enthusiasts can be found everywhere along with non boaters who can find themselves on the water. The safety tips the auxiliary promotes could prove invaluable.
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T
Tipping Points & Headlights: The Bird is the Word Paul Barlow, Auxiliary Affairs, Ninth District Here’s a recap of N-TRAIN 2014…you know our national training meeting held January. It can be summed up in a few lines…TIPPING POINTS & HEADLIGHTS. learned can be reduced to one WORD…BIRD.
in St Louis, Mo. in And out of that, what I
Remember the TRASHMEN? They were a group in the 60s that continued the Mow-Mow” by the Rivingtons with “Bird is the Word.” It sort of went like this:
theme of “Papa-Oom-
* EVERYBODYS HEARD ABOUT THE BIRD * BIRD, BIRD, BIRD, B-BIRD’S THE WORD Let me explain how I made this connection. Insights from the Chief Director’s meeting were wide ranging but especially of the suggestion to review the book, “THE TIPPING POINT: HOW LITTLE was note THINGS CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE” by Malcomb Gladwell. The “Tipping Point” is about change and epidemics; social, economic, medical, you name it. As such, little things can make a difference. Little things can become the “tipping point” for success or failure. In the book are numerous examples of epidemics. One occurred in Baltimore in the 90s where syphilis rates exploded. One explanation was that crack cocaine was so easily obtained that it increased the likelihood of risky sexual behavior. Another noted that less community outreach staff was available to help stem the tide while the need to obtain the drug opened up more interaction between the neighborhoods. This along with destroying the “crack houses” forced more infected people into other parts of Baltimore. In short, there was no simple explanation that caused the epidemic. It came down to numerous little things that added up to make the difference. The re-emergence of the HUSH PUPPY shoe from similar small changes in the socio-economic networks allowed what Gladwell referred to as Connectors to become the “tipping point” in making the shoes relevant again. Connectors were a big part of spreading the syphilis epidemic in Baltimore. One example that I was drawn to was the story of Sesame Street and Big Bird was a BIG part of their success. However, it didn’t start out this way even though the best producers, directors, writers and actors were brought in to deliver a simple message. And they had a straightforward premise that if you can hold the attention of young children, you can teach them. In short, you can create an epidemic of literacy. In one episode, they tried to teach the children how to spell “H-U-G”. They would bring the adults and children together on the “street” to talk about and demonstrate HUG. All the visual bells & whistles were in place but the message didn’t resonate with the children viewing on TV. Not until Big Bird was introduced did they see positive results…and the results were enormous. The addition of Big Bird was the extra ingredient that made the difference to tip the presentation in their favor. Repetition and simplicity were key elements but Big Bird provided what Gladwell called the “stickiness” factor that started this epidemic in teaching. How is this relevant to how we do business? First, we should keep things simple. “Stick” to the basics. For example, RBS should continue to be our focus as preparations are made for the CGAUX 75th Anniversary. RBS has been a message reinforced by VADM Currier at N-TRAIN and repeated again and again by CG/CGAUX senior leadership. What does this mean? RBS is paramount with our goal to start an epidemic in promoting boating safety. So, continue your core competencies with vessel exams, public education, boat shows and public affairs that support RBS. Follow your passion, work in the margins, and remember that staying within the realm of RBS strengthens the very foundation of the Auxiliary. VADM Currier was adamant that our choice should be for RBS over augmentation as an example. He suggested that we should become a HEADLIGHTS Organization. One that looks ahead, at least 5
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Continued from page 14 years, to ensure we remain relevant. Our headlights should be pointed to survival in the years to come as we develop a vision that perpetuates the Auxiliary for another 75 years. VADM Currier also talked about TBO…time between overhauls in aircraft engines and reviewing our need for the restrictions we’re placing upon our auxiliary aviators. Point is that he is looking to make small changes to improve operations that may make the difference without degrading Auxiliary Aviation Safety. Funding and travel restrictions are also under review. This is indicative of how our senior leadership is open to suggestions to improve, especially in these dreary times of reduced funding and decremental budgets. In short, look to the future to maintain relevance. Focus on RBS but don’t be afraid to follow your passions and work in the margins. Continue to do the little things that “stick”. Think of yourself as Big Bird. You make a difference and can be the tipping point to start a positive epidemic. As you go about your Auxiliary business, remember to give each other a HUG for all that you do and remind yourself that your contributions are HUGE. No matter how we measure them, every bit of your effort and time spent supporting the Coast Guard is HUGE!
* AND WHAT IS HUGE ??? * BUT A HUG…WITH AN “E” * AND THAT RHYMES WITH
“B”
* AND THAT STANDS FOR BIRD * AND EVERYBODY KNOWS THAT * THE BIRD IS THE WORD
Pat Yourself on the Back – PV’ers Maryann Gregoria, District Staff Officer - Program Visitor Great Job !!!!!! We’re up on the numbers of Program Visits for 2013. Your time and effort paid off, and you have surpassed our set goals for year 2013. For those who are NOT Program Visitors, it is a rewarding and fulfilling part of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary experience. Only 7% of members are Program Visitor qualified a small number for a job you can do as your visit your local Marina, Marine Store, Library, Insurance Office, or anyplace you frequent on your daily travels. As a PV you fill racks, answer questions, place flyers for Public Education Classes, Vessel Exam Event, and Public Affairs Events. So take the time to read the Manual # M16796.3C, take the on-line test, visit 2 places with a qualified Program Visitor and start the rewarding experience. Contact your FSO-PV, if you have any questions. To our Qualified Program Visitors, don’t forget to order the Certification of Appreciation at ANSC #6022 (CG5234) and take the time to do a presentation, with other members to thank your existing businesses for their support and renew the relationship. For more information on Recreational Boating Safety Partner Visitation Program go to: http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=V-DEPT&category=rbs-partner-visitation
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District Web Presence Karen Rochon, District Staff Officer - Communications Services Over the past year our district web presence has grown. I am pleased to report that our district has only 5 flotilla’s without a web presence. My goal is for the district to have 100% of our units on line by the end of this year. The majority of our units including district, have converted their web sites over from the old legacy sites to WOW sites. The legacy sites are written using HTML or similar code. There are software programs such as FrontPage, Dreamweaver, and Expressions that can assist a programmer in making /maintaining a website. The problem with using software to program a site is the need to have someone with knowledge of the program to hold the CS office. It also can be costly to buy the program and continual updates. WOW on the other hand is a content management program. A content management site is one that the user enters data with the main programing already done for them. WOW has many advantages over the legacy sites. No software required is a huge advantage. Units no longer have the cost associated with the purchase (and upgrading) of software to program their site. The only requirement is that you have a browser with internet connection! This makes it easier to fill the CS position without the requirement of an officer having to know how FrontPage, Dreamweaver, Expressions, etc. work. . At the moment it is not mandatory to convert to WOW but it is going to be a requirement in the future. There seems to be some confusion on the procedure CS officers needs to go through to obtain approval for switching an existing approved website to a WOW site. Below I have outlined the district procedure: 1. Once the new WOW site is finished the CS officer goes through the check list (http://itgroup.cgaux.org/) to verify that all requirements have been meet. 2. When the CS officer deems that the WOW site meets National's standards they contact their SO-CS officer. 3. SO-CS officer reviews the site. If anything is missed they will contact the CS officer so they can make changes. If everything meets with the SO-CS officer’s approval they forward the required information (http://itgroup.cgaux.org/) to the DSO-CS officer to request the WOW site be approved. 4. DSO-CS officer will review the WOW site to verify that it meets National standards and if so they will submit a request with National to have the WOW site approved as the official website for that unit. Hopefully you will find this information helpful. As always, if you have any questions or help please do not hesitate in contacting me.
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Spring Training Conference Photos All Photos provided by: COMO Jerri Smith
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2013 District Awards
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In second row, USCG Captains Paul Albertson and Jeffrey Ogden Continued on page 19
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1st Place, Daniel R. Getts Flotilla 18-05 Livonia 2nd Place, Anthony Mallia 18-05 Livonia
1st Place, Richard C. Desmet, Jr. Flotilla 18-11 Plymouth-Canton
3rd Place, Mitchell T. Kamlay 20-19 Mt Clemens
2nd Place, Mark R. Villeneuve Flotilla 18-05 Livonia 3rd Place, Paul H. Shooshanian Flotilla 18-11 Plymouth-Canton 1st Place, Thomas R. Chalifoux Flotilla 18-11 1st Place, Joseph P. Kennedy Flotilla 20-03 Port Huron
Plymouth-Canton
2nd Place, Nancy S. McKee Marshall Flotilla 26-04 Alpena
2nd Place, Dennis M. Cunningham Flotilla 18-11 Plymouth-Canton
3rd Place, Linda H. Heasel Flotilla 20-19 Mt. Clemens
3rd Place, Donna M. Daciuk Flotilla 26-10 Twin Bay
1st Place, Stephen K. Donnelly Flotilla 20-19 Mount Clemens
1st Place, Cheryle L. Puchala Flotilla 18-10 Trenton 2nd Place, Matthew L. Puchala Flotilla 18-10 Trenton
2nd Place, Loren Graham Flotilla 28-09 Marquette
3rd Place, Thomas J. Kubat Flotilla 16-12 Marblehead
3rd Place, Fred E. Overholt Flotilla 16-12 Marblehead
1st Place, David M. Pederson Flotilla 20-18 Oakland County
1st Place, Danilo H. Iglesias, M.D. Flotilla 20-09 Harrison Township
2nd Place, Mark A. Bertacchi Flotilla 20-18 Oakland County
2nd Place, Ray C. Roberts, Jr. Flotilla 18-11 Plymouth-Canton
3rd Place, Thomas G. Burley Flotilla 20-18 Oakland County
1st Place, Kenneth J. Baron Flotilla 20-04 Grosse Pointe 2nd Place, Kim M. Cole Flotilla 22-05 Jackson
1st Place, Michael J. Miski Flotilla 20-12 Detroit
3rd Place,Neil M. Patterson Flotilla 20-04 Grosse Pointe
2nd Place, Frank J. Nazar Flotilla 20-12 Detroit 3rd Place, Mark F. Volkman Flotilla 20-12 Detroit
1st Place, Karen L. Rochon Flotilla 20-04 Grosse Pointe 2nd Place, Christopher J. Stevens Flotilla 20-12 Detroit
1st Place, James A. Johnson Flotilla 26-10 Twin Bay
3rd Place, Paul H. Shooshanian Flotilla 18-11 Plymouth-Canton
2nd Place, Laurence M. Sims Flotilla 26-10 Twin Bay 3rd Place, David R. Pflum Flotilla 26-03 Northern Great Lakes
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Flotilla 28-01 Assists Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Ice Caves Richard L. Carver, District Captain - North Visitors braved the cold and snowy Northwest Wisconsin Winter and flocked to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Mainland Sea Caves to view a spectacular display of stalactites formed from ground water seeping out of the primarily sandstone cliffs. In recent years, Lake Superior has experienced steadily warming average temperatures and access to the “Ice Caves” is now a rare occurrence. They were “opened” on January 15, 2014 and by the time they were closed on March 16; twelve members of Flotilla 2801 had volunteered in excess of 200 hours to enhance safety for 138,000 visitors who had visited. Prior to this year, the last opportunity to visit them was five years ago.
Although their traditional assistance to the National Park Service and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore focuses on Paddle Sports Safety, members of District Nine, Ninth Central Region Flotilla 28-01 in Bayfield, Wisconsin, respond with USCG approval, to the park calling for assistance. With Local, National, and International Press and Television, as well as social media coverage, the Park has seen visitors from as far away as Japan and press coverage in Australia, Japan, and Spain. Apostle Islands Flotilla members are volunteering in this non-traditional way to manage parking, observe the flow of traffic and to provide another layer of safety, even though the waters of Lake Superior are now nearly all ice. The caves are a product of eons of erosion on the southwest shore of Lake Superior. They are accessible primarily by Kayak and Canoe during the summer months and, with Recreational Boating Safety and the Paddle Smart Initiative, the Auxiliary is entering its fourth year as National Park Service volunteers as they work to prevent paddle sports incidents.
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VE Update: Electric Distress Lights Michael Dziekan, Aid to District Staff Officer, Vessel Examiner Recently, questions regarding approved electric distress lights have come across the DSO-VE’s desk. First, what would we, as VE’s, look for to consider if an electric distress light is acceptable in lieu of pyrotechnic type flares (and information to share with our fellow boaters during the VSC)? Secondly, are there electric distress lights for boats available, commercially, that meet the USCG Approval Number: 161.013? Let’s start with the basics. To meet the 46 CFR 161.013-3 general requirements, each light must: (1) Emit a white light which meets the intensity requirements of section (§)161.013-5; (2) Be capable of automatic signaling in a manner which meets the requirements of §161.013-7; (3) Contain an independent power source which meets the requirements of §161.013-9; (4) Float in fresh water with the lens surface at or above the surface of the water; (5) Be equipped with a waterproof switch; and (6) Meet the requirement of paragraphs (a) (1) through (4) of this section after floating for at least 72 hours followed by submersion in 5% by weight sodium chloride solution for at least 2 hours. (7) The electric light may not be equipped with a switch mechanism which permits continuous display of a beam of light except that the light may be equipped with a switch which returns to the off position when pressure is released. There are also addition requirements (and most are out of scope for this discussion): 161.013-5 Intensity requirements 161.013-7 Signal requirements 161.013-9 Independent power source 161.013-11 Prototype test 161.013-13 Manufacturer certification and labeling 161.013-17 Manufacturer notification To answer the question regarding what the VE would need to verify that the electric distress light meets the requirement as a night VDS, we would look to 161.013-13 Manufacturer certification and labeling for guidance. It states: (a) Each electric light intended as a Night Visual Distress Signal required by 33 CFR part 175 must be certified by the manufacturer as complying with the requirements of this subpart. (b) Each electric light must be legibly and indelibly marked with: (1) Manufacturer's name; (2) Replacement battery type; (3) Lamp size; and (4) The following words—“Night Visual Distress Signal for Boats Complies with U. S. Coast Guard Requirements in 46 CFR 161.013. For Emergency Use Only.” Back to Page 1
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Continued from page 21 (c) If an electric light is designed for use with dry cell batteries the label must advise the consumer on the battery replacement schedule which under normal conditions would maintain performance requirements of §161.013-3. The key here is the light must have a manufacturer’s label that states: “Night Visual Distress Signal for Boats Complies with U. S. Coast Guard Requirements in 46 CFR 161.013. For Emergency Use Only.” In short, we cannot accept an electric distress light as a night VDS without this label. Our fellow boaters may try to use a Personal Floatation Device Light (USCG Approval Number 161.012) and claim is as an electric distress light for their boat. Remember that we cannot as these lights are intended for use on Life Jackets only. They may also try to use an Automatic Crew-Overboard (COB) Marker Light (USCG Approval Number 161.010) as an electric distress lights for boats. These devices do not meet the requirement for a night VDS for a boat. Now, on to the second question: Are there electric distress lights for boats available commercially, that meet the USCG Approval Number: 161.013? A fellow 20-12 VE examiner over the past two summers and my recent exhaustive internet research has not revealed any electric distress lights that meet the U.S. Coast Guard Requirements with the appropriate approval number. This does not mean that they do not exist, but we have not found any products that are available. I would encourage you to keep looking as these lights may be out there. In summary, as Vessel Examiners, we need to be “On Top of Our Game” when doing Vessel Safety Checks and verifying night VDS’s. If any of our fellow Auxiliarists find an electric distress light with USCG Approval Number 161.013, please use the Chain of Leadership and pass the information to Mike Miski DSO-VE. Editor’s Note: The symbol § is used to refer to particular sections within documents, especially legal ones. It is basically a quicker way of saying "see section..."
The 2014 Detroit Boat Show Dan Getts, Division Commander 18 Division 18 hosted the CG Auxiliary’s efforts at the Detroit Boat Show which was well attended with over 67,000 people. Indicators from the show organizers show sales of new vessels and equipment were up from 2013; and, all vessels 31’ and below were sold either at the dealer’s showrooms or the Detroit Boat Show. This boat show is the fifth largest in the United States, with indoor floor space of 275,000 Sq. Ft. One of the more frequent comments from the general public was to have a brochure available that lists all BS&S type of classes available in the area. Division member’s compiled information, designed a brochure, and had 2,500 brochures printed and available. The Division booth was staffed during the ten day event by members of Divisions 16; 18; and 20. The Coastie-S unit was also present during the Detroit show, and was enjoyed by all. Project leaders were myself and SO-PA Tony Mallia.
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Last Patrol of 2013 Mitchell T Kamlay ADSO-MS 9CR, VFC, FSO-PA & PE 20-19 The last patrol of 2013 was using Robert Burrell boat, the Franklin B. Bob is the stalwart Coxswain of Flotilla 2019. Always ready to get underway. The patrol’s purpose was to be the disabled vessel for Norman Raymond’s boat, Police Property. Upon arriving at SCSTA St Clair Shores to borrow survival suits, it was quite cold outside, but sunny and calm. The Station requested that we serve as the disabled boat for their 25 Boatcrew and Coxswain in training. This seems like a simple, perhaps boring mission. Being the disabled boat required taking the towline and being towed by stern tow then evolving into a side tow. We did this over and over again. “Are you disabled? What is the nature of your disability? Does anyone require medical assistance?” and so on. We wait, take the tow line and get towed around. But, as are all patrols with Bob, it became quite interesting and fun. That is for those who enjoy missions of any type. We did many towing evolutions with the Coast Guard. This is the stern and side tow. We also did a unique transfer of personnel evolution while underway. This is where the Coast Guard boat comes along our boat at a decent speed from the stern and a Coast Guard person would then board the other boat. Something new to us. A good example of TEAM Coast Guard. The evolutions with Norm Raymond’s boat in the Metro Beach Lagoon were a repeat of what we had done with the Coast Guard boat but also interesting. Mr. Raymond’s boat being much larger than the Franklin B. The accompanying photographs show vividly some of what occurred. Those interested in joining the action should become Boatcrew. Those qualified should remember the fun they had on every patrol. They are all memorable.
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