NOR EASTER United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Division 14 Seventh Coast Guard District. A Mighty Force for Boating Safety on Florida's First Coast

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1 NOR EASTER United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Division 14 Seventh Coast Guard District A Mighty Force for Boating Safety on Florida's First Coast Volume XXXIII, 2 nd Qtr, 2013 Editor: W. R. Sekeres, DCDR Bill Sekeres, DCDR Auxiliarists enjoy a unique opportunity to work alongside a branch of this Nation s Armed Services. They are encouraged and welcomed by the US Coast Guard to volunteer their time, to the extent they wish to contribute, to activities conducted mostly by the Coast Guard Auxiliary as well as activities that involve direct support of the Coast Guard. Recreational Boating Safety programs of the Coast Guard have been its primary focus for many years. Vessel Safety Exams, Safe Boating classes and boating Partner Visitations are just a few of the aspects of that focus. As time and events have changed the work load of the Coast Guard, the Auxiliary has had to change its involvement as well to include an increased opportunity to support a highly respected branch of this country s military. With opportunity comes responsibility though. The public views us as the Coast Guard; not just being associated with it. In interactions with members of the public we ve been referred to as the Coast Guard. With that being the case we must therefore act and look the part. Auxiliarists must always remember that in the eyes of the public we are the Coast Guard. We must, therefore, embody the Coast Guard Core Values of Honesty, Integrity, and Devotion to Duty. Vic Aquino, VCDR Coast Guard Auxiliarist s within Division 14, District 7 serve from Kings Bay, Georgia to as far south as St Johns County, Florida and includes the greater Jacksonville area and to the west, Clay County, Florida. Working alongside the U.S. Coast Guard, Auxiliary volunteers provide many essential services that augment active duty missions. The primary focus of the Auxiliary is the safety of recreational boaters. Our Recreational Boating Safety programs provide voluntary and free Vessel Safety Examinations; Public Boating Education classes and Partner Visitations to area marinas and marine dealers. Our members contribute many man hours to these efforts, ensuring that you are safe when on the local waters of our area of responsibility. As members of the Auxiliary, we also provide unique opportunities for our members to learn and develop skills essential in carry out the many missions assigned to us. Missions include on the water safety patrols, communication services, search and rescue operations, marine safety and environmental protection and even aircraft support. These are just a short list of the many programs in which Auxiliarist s participate. To the public, we are viewed as the Coast Guard, and as such, that carries a greater responsibility. We must always look and act in a manner that reflects the very best of our active duty counterpart. As members, we must always reflect the Coast Guard Core Values of Honesty, Integrity and Devotion to duty. If you are looking for an opportunity to serve your community and Nation, I encourage you to join us and serve with the best.

2 Tom Hayden, IPDCDR I want to thank all the Div 14 shipmates who help make my tenure as DCDR a good one. It is a pleasure to see the current DCDR and VDCR and the FCs and SOs are more than capable for their respective jobs. The new year will bring a lot of activity for Div 14 for work with the active duty both USCG and Navy. Keep up the great work. Scott de Brauwere, FC, 14 1 Flotillas 1 SUMMARY OF ACTIVITIES: 03 April one boat facility photographed 9 ATONS for ANT Jax. 03 April one boat facility participated in towing evolutions with the USCGC Sea Dragon. 04 April during our monthly meeting two FWC officers presented Sam Boyd with the 2012 FWC Boating Safety Instructor of the Year. 06 April ABS class taught with 8 students 10 April dockside QE for two crew trainees. 18 April safety class and flare demo for the Marine Trawlers Association during their 2013 rendezvous at Fernandina Harbor. John Fields, FC, 14 4 Aligned with Divisional Strategic Goals.. Effectiveness in recreational boating safety missions 04, 11, 18 & 25 MAR, Instructors for Division Boat Crew Academy ( Don Mooers & R. Cook with guest appearances by J. Fields) OTW Training for BCA using facilities & crew (9, 16 & 23 MAR) Safety patrols for Stanton Rowing contest 2MAR First Coast Rowing Tournament on 16MAR safety patrols Navy League Dinner 22MAR ABS classes set for 18 MAY, 14SEP & 05OCT Completed & processed two USCG AUX facilities (Lang & Fields) Conducted two day TCT for Valiant crew (J.Davis) Leadership development and practices Appointed new FSO DV, Brant Jones Appointed Chairperson for NSBW, Brant jones First Flotilla publication is planned this week.first in over a year (New FSO PB, K.Holbrooks) APRIL PLANS: * Support for Boat Show, April * Safety Patrols for Jax Rowing Regatta, 20 APR * Safety patrols for River City Kayak event 27 MAR * Ongoing BCA training every Monday * First ABS scheduled for May 18, plus one additional TCT on same date

3 David Hensel, FC, ) SO MS Libby Rattrie and SO NS Neil Rattrie continue working their way through the Division 14 AOR with foot based Harbor Patrols under the guidance of Sector Jacksonville s Prevention Dept. To date, the Rattrie s have completed all Marinas and Shipyards in the 14 5 AOR as well as Julington Creek marinas in the 14 8 AOR. Sector Jacksonville has used pictures and reports filed by Libby Rattrie in their Sector Prevention reports. 2) FSO VE Chuck Whipple continues to plan the Flotilla s NSBW activities which so far will include two mornings of blanket coverage of all boat ramps in the Flotilla s AOR. In preparation for the NSBW events, the FSO VE and FSO MT have teamed up to give our new members VE and PV training as well as a refresher for those members already certified as VEs. 3) Our FSO PE Wayne Beard continues to coordinate and teach RBS classes each month at our Flotilla HQ in Green Cove Springs. Additionally, we have taught our first course in Putnam County by the invitation of the Putnam County Sheriff s Office Marine Unit. We expect to teach more classes in Putnam County as the demand warrants. David Patrick, FC, 14 7 Current progress relative to District Strategic Plan: Member Training classes are on going. AUXNAV A exam scheduled for March 20. AUXSEA will begin March 18 through June. Public Education courses are scheduled for 2013 and will include, in addition to ABS, classes on How to Read a Nautical Chart, Suddenly in Command and GPS for Mariners. The first two will be held on April 6. Accomplishments in Recruiting and Retention: Membership now at 76, up from 57 DEC12. FSO HR working on membership for 5 prospects, including husband (past FC) and wife (AuxChef) re locating from NC. Program performance in OPS/RBS: 3 PA events (Boating Safety/Public Information Events BS/PI) held this month at West Marine, Vilano Boat Ramp and Lighthouse Boat Ramp, all in conjunction with VSCs. PA advance notice of possible BS/PI Exhibit during NSBW at SA City Marina during visit of 197 Galleon Andalucia, May. This may be of interest to others in Division 14, will keep all posted. 5 VEs conducted 20 VSCs (10 passed) this month. One new VE qualified with completion of supervised VSCs. 3 Surface Ops safety/training patrols since last report. Night ATON mission planned for March 28. NSBW plans discussed at 19 MAR FSO meeting. Activities to include Multi Agency Kick Off with VE blitz both weekends (Sat & Sun) and BS/PI booth at each location, distress flare demonstration, fire extinguisher demonstration, boating safety presentation to second graders at local school, local radio broadcasts and participation in division wide presence at Jax Suns game. More information available after 28 MAR meeting with all local agencies including Sector Jax, SJC Fire /Rescue, SJC Sherriff s Dept., FWC, SA Police Dept. and 14 7.

4 Problems encountered: 1. Still waiting for award for member Ken Beccard. 2. FSO MT reports that information on AUXLMS is incomplete. Is this a directive from National and, if so, why is there no directive forthcoming? Information seems to be filtering down and gets fuzzy. Also, two members who have taken courses have mixed results on getting certificates into AUXDATA. The system was thought to be automatic and is not performing as initially advertised. 3. FSO PA (also SO PA) is still waiting for DIRAUX to update his records. Assistance required: Clearer information on item #2 above. DCDR please assist with item #3 above. Is anyone in Division assigned to distribute PME (Permitted Marine Event) notifications to FSO OP? I am told that Heinz Friedrich used to do this. SA Blessing of the Fleet 24 MAR is a PME (to my knowledge, application has been submitted and approved) but no notification has been received regarding this event. Paul Burns, FC, 14 8 Flotilla 14-8's Public Education program has been going full steam, graduating 70 students so far this year in 4 classes. In March, we appointed Paul Tynda FSO-DV and launched our Diversity program with a seminar by the division SO-DV, Annette Schultz. Paul Tynda is setting goals to work toward the "National Commodore's 3 Star Award for Diversity". Paul Tynda also participated in "Operation Black Swan" a simulated cruise ship disaster exercise coordinated by the U.S. Coast Guard, the Government of the Bahamas, the cruise line industry, and various other partners at the federal, state, and local levels to test and evaluate safety procedures in the cruise line industry. The exercise was held in Freeport, Grand Bahama. Black Swan marked a few milestones; it was both the largest passenger vessel exercise, and the largest Coast Guard Auxiliary supported exercise in U.S. Coast Guard history -- with over 100 Auxiliarists participating in a foreign nation. Our Program Visitors have been talking to local waterfront businesses exposing them and to and promoting The Boat US Children's Life Jacket Loaner Program. The program allows boaters who may not have the correct fitting life jacket on board for a child guest. They are allowed to borrow the correct sized PFD for a day or weekend. The Freedom Boat Club on Julington Creek, is now participating in the Loaner Program. On the Operations side, we are happy to have a new 32' facility in the final stages of acceptance. This will have a significant impact on both operational support and training opportunities. We have 2 members completing the division Boat Crew Academy with ambitions of moving directly to Coxswain training. We will have a total of 3 new crew and 2 new coxswains to become qualified for this upcoming boating season. Our Vessel Examiners are planning Saturday safety checks at Mandarin Park in April, completing 25 safety checks to date this year. Our FSO-VE, Whatley Law has launched a marketing campaign designed to reach over 100,000 exposures in our area through various community newsletters. If successful, we should be ordering many more decals soon.

5 For National Safe Boating Week, we have plans for a Public Affairs Event at Academy Sports and Outdoor Store on Blanding Blvd along with a VE Blitz in the Julington Creek area. Paul Burns Flotilla Commander Division Staff Officers "Back In The Day" I recently ran across an Auxiliary Communications Department document dated January 7, 1997 with the subject line "Auxiliary Electronic Communication". In many areas of our lives 15 years ago can hardly be considered "Back In The Day", but this document was sent to Flotilla Communication Officers to introduce them to ways that they could utilize a computer that they may have in their offices or maybe if they were lucky enough to have one, in their own homes to facilitate their Coast Guard Auxiliary duties. In 1997, the Information and Communication Services or "I" Department was exploring and making every effort to supplement the traditional written, printed, and postman delivered communication channels with four new means of electronic communication which included: The BBS. Some Auxiliarists with computers had recently been using the "Auxiliary Bulletin Board System", which they could access for free for up to 15 minutes per day to post messages that could be read by other Auxiliarists using the BBS. Auxiliarists were told that they could to subscribe to something called " America Online" which offered discussion groups where public messages were posted about the Auxiliary and boating. Members were encouraged subscribe to an E Mail service. The memo went on to describe what was and how it could be used to send an single message to multiple recipients. Then the memo went on to say "The near future of electronic communication appears to be the Internet, or World Wide Web (WWW)." The potential of this new resource could impact "placing orders for uniforms", "tutoring and testing for AUXOP courses", "checking and updating AUXMIS", and "reaching out to the public with boating safety information." So here we are, back in the future, where almost all communication is electronic, postage stamps are rarely used for everyday communication, the Internet is offering the Coast Guard Auxiliary everything foreseen in the 1997 memo and much more. CS Department Accomplishments: In 2012 Division 14's websites became much more uniform in their presentation of information to its membership and public users. To our members, our Auxiliary websites have been a primary source for training and testing, in addition to announcing and publishing our plans, events and accomplishments. Division 14 has had a majority of its flotillas adopt the national website design to better provide both the membership and public, with the links to Auxiliary pages that are automatically updated on a national basis, rather than through individual flotilla web managers, while still offering the local flotilla the freedom to give their websites a local individuality and offer local information to the public and flotilla membership. The WOW website platform has made it easier for flotillas to build a website with all required elements and uniform appearance with little or even no website design training.

6 Flotilla 14 7 offers us a perfect example of how the WOW website platform can take an out of date website without an active web manager, to a useful tool that all members of the flotilla can use on a daily basis. In July, with the help of the flotilla commander, we put together a simple WOW website and made it active. The entire process took about a half an hour and the website met all of the national standards. In December Joe Razza took over as FSO CS for Flotilla 14 7 and as soon his status was updated in AuxData, Joe had access to update and expand the website without the need for special software, passwords or even contact with the previous website designer. Joe mentioned that the "WOW system is very good, user friendly and fairly simple to follow". The result is what Joe calls a "First Cut" of what is planned to be a more detailed project with input from other FSOs in his flotilla. I invite you to take a look at Joe Razza's first cut, which is certainly a cut above average when you compare his work to others across the 7th District. Bravo Zulu, Joe! Visit Flotilla 14 7 at: The National Boating Class Finder, which should be available on all flotilla websites, connects potential PE students with both the closest, or most immediate Safe Boating Class to their neighborhoods. The Internet and our Auxiliary websites have been a key source for PE students to find classroom taught boating safety instruction. PE officers or CS officers should update their flotilla's PE class schedule for 2013 at: The National Recruiting Website, linked from most local flotilla websites connects those interested in joining the Auxiliary with their local FSO HR to begin the new membership process. Our websites are frequently the source of first contact on the road to membership in the auxiliary. For 2013, the Communication Services Department will endeavor to increase the level of usefulness of its websites and WebPages. In Division 14, my goal is for a higher level of participation in Auxiliary National website platforms, and websites that go beyond the minimum requirements for Auxiliary standards. I encourage flotillas to discuss their websites during their meetings and help their CS officers tailor each individual flotilla website to the needs of the flotilla. Comments and suggestions from the membership is the best way for the CS officer to build a roadmap to a website that is a tool that the flotilla membership can use every day in the performance of their responsibilities in the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Visit the Division 14 Website at: 14 Communications Diversity A Cheerleader in the Peanut Gallery What constitutes a good, diverse flotilla in the USCG Auxiliary? Let's start with the organizational meetings we hold each month. That is how new prospects first get a real feel for the organization. They come into our meeting and are greeted by several members with varying jobs in the organization who talk and visit with them; welcoming them. When the meeting starts, they then hear from the Flotilla Commanding Officer who covers a variety of duties in that meeting; new business, old business, handing out awards, etc. They will hear the minutes read from the last meeting, hear oral reports from the other officers within our flotilla, and watch awards being handed out and pictures taken. From that they will go home and consider the question and exhortations they have received from all the members at that meeting as to whether or not they will join the organization. While the meeting gives our visitors a good overview of what the flotilla is all about, it is the

7 reports from the various other staff officers that will draw their attention to what is available in terms of choices and the fields of work to which they can aspire. The last person they will hear from will be the Diversity officer. After each officer has explained what has gone on in his area of expertise, now the Diversity officer has an opportunity to recite numbers of people reached no, that is done by the PA officer; the number of patrols run no that's done by another officer; well, it can't be the treasurer's report, we have just heard from that person, and it isn't the minutes of the meeting, that's been taken care of by the secretary AH! I just found it. The Diversity office is able to now extol upon the importance of each of these offices and the officers and people within the various groups: similar to the wrap up of the month, or the play of the week from a sports announcer, or the rah rah rah from the cheerleader on the sidelines. The Diversity officer does double time by extolling the praises of the people who are sometimes missed or overlooked. This should encourage those members who have heretofore been somewhat tepid in stepping up, to feel more confident about becoming more involved, and see that each of us is important and vital to the health of the entire flotilla. Information Services Members be aware that the website for the Online Auxiliary Learning Management System (AUXLMS) for your Auxiliary Mandated Training Course requirements and ICS 210 online, are not performing as advertised. As soon as I have more details I will forward them to you all. Save any course completion printouts and hold them, until we are informed the system is operating properly. At present the system is not downloading the completions into your AuxData Records as advertised. Various incomplete or error messages appear when you try to get a transcript completion update, of your completed courses. If in doubt about your course completions, ask your FSO-IS to get your complete AuxData Individual Training Record print out. Marine safety Response: 14-7 responded to a SAR Case of a 21 sailing vessel, that became disabled & went aground on the north shoal of At. Augustine s/v Ponce Inlet, & escorted the towing vessel back to Camachee Cove Marina. Land-based Pollution HARPATs, being conducted by 2 members of 14-5, have been completed for the AORs of 14-5 & 14-8 with a total of 25 marinas/boatyards visited. Reports were sent to Sector Jacksonville Response Department where they were acted upon if required. Two members from 14-7 (Chris Bonnevier & Ted Schneider) & 1 member from 14-8 (Paul Tynda) were involved in the Mass Rescue Operation, Code Name Black Swan, coordinated by the USCG & Cruise industry. The ship left Port Canaveral on April 1 st &

8 while in transit, the GMDSS was activated on April 2 nd with Jacksonville being 1 of first notified of any problems. There were no Pollution Response call-outs in the past 30 days. Waterways Management: Flotilla 14-4 maintained & patrolled safety zones for the following Marine Events: Stanton Rowing PME, First Coast Rowing Regatta & was going to do the Blessing of the Fleet but it was cancelled due to weather. Several large pieces of concrete block were discovered by 14-7 in the vicinity of Butler Boat Ramp & reported. USCG Sea Partners Program: Flotillas 14-5 & 14-8 participated in the annual St. Johns River Celebration & Clean Up not only with trash pickup but with educational information for the public on the USCG Sea Partners program to help the marine environment. Chrysal Wickline of 14-8 bby & Neil Rattrie of 14-5 Flotilla 14-1 had their safety trailer at the Captain s Club Annual Flea Market with educational material on Marine Safety along with RBS information identified derelict crab traps in the Matanzas River & removed them. Member Training FLOT 14 7: BOAT CREW TRAINING CLASS continues March for 2 active members, 1 flotilla member approaching qualification. AUXOP Classes: Continuing with 6 members; 2 completed AUXNAV A exam, AUXNAV B has begun. Ken Beccard and Ted Schneider are teaching. Three (3) flotilla members are in study process to become Vessel Examiners. FLOT 14 1 Flotilla Crew Training Class commenced 10FEB for 10 new members. Classes are held TU/THU nights FLOT 14 2: FSO MT has initiated and begun an OOD(INPORT) training class at Station Mayport. With the agreement and assistance of the CO and with the help of the XO, a Personal Qualification Standard has been assembled to develop an accession from within the Division to begin assuming duties. This is intended to allow DIV 14 Auxiliarists to assume part of the USCGC Kingfisher crew s workload by standing inport top deck watch. It is envisioned that this program will allow involved Auxiliary members who volunteer to eventually earn their Cutterman Designation and be entitled to wear the appropriate

9 insignia. Eleven (11) Auxiliarists met on 28MAR to commence this training, and another six (6) have indicated their interest to become so qualified. FLOT 14 4: TCT Facilitator John Davis delivered an 8 Hour Team Coordination Training Class on site at NS Mayport. FLOT 14 5 Classroom training continues, with Flotilla members utilizing the computer station at their site to take and pass the Vessel Examiner and Program Visitor exams on line. No other activity to report. FLOT 14 8 OTW/CLASSROOM continues to make patrol time, and practical training available to two (2) Boat Crew candidates, and one (1) COXN candidate. One (1) member has commenced the Cutterman OOD (INPORT) training package above. This member intends to take his QE Audit (Boat Crew) on 4 MAY. One (1) qualified Boat Crew Flotilla Member has volunteered to serve in support of this effort. May 7 Flotilla Meeting will feature a Deputy from Clay County Sheriff s Office who will declaim on the issue of reporting derelict and abandoned craft located in the Clay County patrolled waters of the St. Johns River. Navigation Services As announced at the last Flotilla meeting, there will be an Aids Verifier Training class in St Augustine on April 6 th. If you wish to attend, you will need to have taken ICS 100, 700 and be current on the TCT either by taking the 1 hr refresher or attending the 8hr version. Contact me for details if you would like to attend. There has been no activity this month checking Aids or Bridges in our AOR. The CSX & main US 17 road bridges over Rice Creek need to be checked for lights. Reports on 7055 to be sent to the FSO NS. Operations 1. Currently working with the Station Mayport AUXLO to monitor expenses for Auxiliary Surface Operations. Currently no issues are apparent as the Station received an additional $4, for Auxiliary fuel budget. This will likely suffice for 40 additional missions. Forty missions will take the Division to June but not beyond. We continue to work with the OIA to maintain good stewardship of the funds we are allotted. 2. Our resident QE has negotiated with the Station to certify active duty personell to work as Auxiliary QE. This will be a great help to the Division in terms of maintaining and certifying new crew candidates. It will also reduce expenses to the District by not having to expense travel for the Auxiliary QE. 3. The Boat Crew Academy has four new candidates ready for certification and will have five more later in the year. The four current members will likely go before the QE on the 4 th of MAY. 4. An additional OPFAC was added to the D14 fleet in the form of a 32 foot Catamaran owned by Tom Edwards of Flotilla This will fill a gap that is being created by the transfer of an OPFAC to D10. We still do not have AOR coverage for the Green Cove Springs area. Hopefully that Flotilla will find a member with a facility and get underway.

10 Public Affairs Subj: Monthly Activity Report for PUBLIC AFFAIRS (ALL Division 14 Flotillas reporting): 1. Meetings, conferences, seminars, workshops, etc. attended or conducted during previous month or will attend in near future: SO PA, accompanied by VCDR and FC 14 7 attended St. Johns Unified Marine Response Consortium semi annual meeting on 28 March to participate in organizing multi agency NSBW event planned for 18 May at Vilano Ramp in St. Augustine. Flotilla 14 7 will be lead agency in planning, coordination, and PA. 14 5: Members participated in Putnam County St. Johns Waterways Committee meeting. Also, see Item 3 (Training conducted for Flotilla staff and/or members). 14 7: FSO PA accompanied by FSO DV (who will be a presenter) attended two planning meetings of the A1A Scenic & Historical Coastal Byway s Fourth Annual Environmental Education Fair/Kid s Ocean Day to be held on 3 MAY at Anastasia State Park. 2. Activities, projects, events, etc. completed or scheduled for the immediate future: a. 14 1: Scott DeBrauwere is NSBW Chairperson. Flotilla Spring Safe Boating Plans and Activities: APR 13: Marine Trawlers Association Rendezvous VSCs for member vessels, tailored PE boating safety program, pyrotechnic demonstration. 02 MAY 13 (Weekend): Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival Flotilla members to conduct tours aboard USCGC Sea Dragon at Fernandina Harbor Marina, distribution of Boating Safety class and VSCs information. 18 MAY 13 (Weekend): NSBW VSCs at area ramps, Safe Boating Information booth at Wild Amelia Nature Festival at Fernandina Beach Recreation Center; ABS course at Amelia Island House Cottage. 08 JUN 13: Safe Boating Information booths at Amelia Island Yacht Basin and Fernandina Harbor Marina, with support of a boat and crew from USCGSTA Mayport during Marina Day activities at both locations. All activities to be staffed with VE s to conduct VSCs or to schedule future examinations. b. 14 2: Mark Henricks is NSBW Chairman. South East Boat Show currently under way in Jacksonville. Flotilla supplying logistics and most staffing (12 14 APR).

11 NSBW events planned: 18 MAY 13: NSBW Day at Jim King Park Sister's Creek with U.S. Power Squadron and City of Jacksonville. Some private vendors will display. 19 MAY 13: Assist with St. Augustine VE's at Vilano Ramp. BAT also to be present. 23 MAY 13: NSBW Night at Jacksonville Suns. c. 14 4: NSBW Chairman Brant Jones is unavailable due to health issues and FC John Fields is OCONUS. Immediately prior to his departure, FC Fields reported the following as confirmed events: May 12, Queens Harbour VSC's and Boating Safety day May 18, VSC Day (morning) at Beach Marine boating ramp May 18, VSC Day (afternoon) at Palm Cove Marina May 18, ABS class at Captains Club on Beach Blvd Scheduled Division 14 QE events are also conducted during this weekend (our Flotilla will provide facilities and crew) We also provide a boating safety display and help with VSC's at the Palatka Bluegrass Festival, either weekend on 18th or 25th d. 14 5: Chuck Whipple is NSBW Chairman. Members participated in two local St. Patrick s Day parades, 15 and 17 March. March 16th, 2013 Flotilla and Detachment members participated in Radio watch for the Clay County St. Johns River Cleanup. March 16th, 2013 SO MS and SO NS, operated a booth at the Clay County St. Johns River Clean Up. (SO Officers, not as FSO) March, 2013 Land Based HARPATS were performed in area NSBW events planned (no change): Planning to locate multiple two person teams of VE s to conduct VSC s at several Clay County public launch ramps on the opening weekend of NSBW. The objective will be to encourage on the spot boater safety education by providing complimentary VSC s to as many recreational boaters as possible at the beginning of the summer boating season. Planned ramp locations: Saturday Knight s Marina (Black Creek) Governor s Creek

12 Lakeshore Drive Sunday Middleburg Main Street Old Ferry Road e. 14 7: Robert Schultz is NSBW Chairman. The St. Johns County Unified Marine Response Consortium will be participating with the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in a public outreach event for National Safe Boating Week (18 May thru 24 May). We will be presenting a Kickoff Event at the Vilano Beach Boat Ramp on Sat 18 May Hrs. The lead agency for this event will be the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, St. Augustine Flotilla, As part of this event, we will be presenting a Boating Safety Outreach Activity in conjunction with a Vessel Safety Check Station. Also to be presented are a marine flare demonstration, a CPR demonstration, and a firefighting demonstration. The other Consortium member agencies will present static displays including high speed interdiction and response craft, and firefighting boats and apparatus. Additionally, 14 7 has presented and staffed a total of five Boating Safety/Public Information Exhibits or Boating Safety Outreach Activities, most accompanying VSC stations, at various locations in St. Augustine, with a total of 103 visitors/contacts. f. 14 8: Rusty Gardner is NSBW Chairman. During NSBW, 14 8 in partnership with Academy Sports & Outdoors, 661 Blanding Blvd., Suite 700, Orange Park, FL, will conduct VSC s from daily and will conduct Mini Courses in Rules of the Road Basics, GPS Basics, Marine Radio Basics, Finding Great Destinations, and Inflatable Life Jacket Demonstrations. 3. Training conducted for Flotilla staff and/or members: SO PA: See Item 4, (Memoranda distributed to flotilla staff and elected officers. Info available on request) 4. Memoranda distributed to Flotilla Staff Officers: a. E mail memos forwarded from ADSO NE to Division 14 FSO PAs: 27 MAR: On this day in history 28 MAR: PA contests announced 29 MAR: PA contests announced 30 MAR: NSBW begins in just a few weeks 30 MAR: NSBW begins in just a few weeks 03 APR: 14 7 S BSOA (Detailed description of 14 7 s Boating Safety Outreach Activity, with attachments. b. E mail memo forwarded from VCDR to Division 14 FSO PA s: (Date not available): Submit reports three days early.

13 5. All FSO PA s are to be commended for submitting whatever they could on short notice! Sam Boyd of 14 1 is to be commended for his award from FWC as Boating Safety Educator of the Year for the State of Florida. Evidently we re still awaiting approval from National for release of information to the news media, the information being at least a week old. PUBLIC EDUCATION The District 7 PE finder has been discontinued and replaced by a National PE course finder that uses the student's ZIP Code to find a course within the number of miles they select and are willing to travel. However, it is up to each FSO PE to submit their data. To input your flotilla's schedule go to: < It only takes 5 minutes to add a class to the schedule. This program gives the prospective students a course summary with all the information including a map with driving directions to your classroom. Try it, you'll like it. It appears that Facebook can be a very useful tool to increase attendance at our PE courses. In January 2013 a flotilla had 9 students preregistered for an ABS course scheduled in February, four weeks before the course when the father of a teenage girl called to make reservations for his teen. During the conversation the father mentioned that his daughter had school friends who might also be interested in the course. The Auxiliarist receiving the call encouraged the father to follow up on it. Within the next few days three more families called to sign up their teenage children and all acknowledged the first family. But then other families with teenage children called to register parents and teen(s). These families didn't know the first family so nothing was noted about it. All callers said they found the course advertised on the internet. But during the day of the course the instructors began to realize that most of the teens knew each other and many attended the same school. It appears the word about the course was spread via Facebook &/or Texting between teens. Another flotilla has begun an outreach program with the assistance of their Program Visitors to reach Auxiliary partners such as the local marinas, boat & PWC dealers, kayak outfitters and yacht clubs to joint venture seminars and workshops on their premises. In this effort, they plan to offer courses such as "How to Read a Nautical Chart", GPS, PWC, Paddle sports, and "Suddenly in Command" to expand the public s perception of the value of this flotilla in its AOR. All flotillas in Division 14 are doing everything they can to reduce the cost of boating education. After all, educating the public in boating safety is one of our primary missions dating back to One flotilla is offering a free ABS course. A number of ABS books are made available to students as loaners during the course and then sold to the student at cost if they decide to keep the book. The student's names, addresses and date of birth are forwarded to the State of Florida for issuance of the Florida Education ID card. Students passing the final examination and wanting a certificate pay the flotilla for only the cost of the certificate and printing. PROGRAM VISITATION 1. Describe how your department has demonstrated its abilities to the USCG Missions has promoted boating safety by providing partners information on the BoatUS Foundation Lifejacket loaner program and signed up one partner for the program. 2. Highlight any unique support your department has provided to the USCG Missions. Include Special Events

14 The Southeast US Boatshow was a great success and we made many visitations to our partners and provided information to several marine partners on the PV programs and other topics Vessel Examinations 2013 Division Performance Through April 07, 2013 Division 14 AUXINFO for Sunday April 07, 2013 showed a total 323 total VSCs completed by 30 VEs compared to only 115 completed by 17 VEs on March 10,2013, and 55 by 11 on February 10, 2013 including Paddle Craft and Facility inspections for all six Flotillas (113 by 10 VEs for 14 1, 23 by 4 VEs for 14 2, 16 by 4 VEs for 14 4, 46 by 5 VEs for 14 5, 73 by 5 VEs for 14 7, and 41 by 2 VEs for Unfortunately, weekly Division AUXINFO reports do not include the number of passing VSCs of any type which is only available from 7038 Forms turned in by individual VEs at the flotilla level. Details for individual Flotillas are available from my monthly reports that include and compare information provided by each FSO VE verifying that they have be able to obtain and distribute sufficient decals to carry them through NSBW for which all have completed plans to serve boaters in their areas at a large number of boat ramps and other facilities, with some FSO VEs serving as the Flotilla NSBW Coordinator of all activities. Annual required training has been completed by most Flotillas, and most have started to implement a monthly schedule of VSC event or blitzes at selected locations. Flotillas 14 1, 14 5, and 14 7 reports show the largest number of qualified VEs pus those in training at 19, 17 (including 5 for Detachment) and 14 respectively. Each flotilla, elected officers, FSO VEs, and VEs are to be congratulated for continuing the good start for Calendar Year 2013, with great expectations for NSBW in May, and the following special events reported by each FSO VE. Special Events Amelia Island FSO VE Richard Trollope Events have been hampered by windy conditions, with future ones including April Marine Trawlers Owners Assn. Rendezvous with 4 6 VEs, 13 April Wild Amelia Festival with paddle craft VSC emphasis, 27 April Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival Harbor Marina, and NSBW in May Arlington FSO VE Phil Tallon Monthly VSC Events held in February and March after which VEs joined the Power Squadron at their annual Metropolitan Park Fish Fry. NSBW plans for VSCs at Arlington and Downtown JAX locations, and at ICW/Sisters Creek with Power Squadron and other nearby Flotillas JAX Beach FSO VE Harvey Jones Significant RBS Committee organized by FC and FSO VE with other FSOs and individual VEs, PVs, etc. to prioritize and coordinate VSC, PV, PA, PE, and OP activities and events related to each function to best use limited member resources/time to carry out all activities effectively as resulted in designation of FSO VE as NSBW Coordinator with use of PE Trailer Green Cove Springs FSO VE Chuck Whipple NSBW plans for VSCs at three Clay County ramps 18 and 19 May with multiple VE teams at each location, with FSO VE serving as designated Flotilla NSBW Coordinator St. Augustine FSO VE Harold Westover VSC events held second Sunday each month, and planned for NSBW at Vilano Ramp, marinas, and marine dealers along with other activities involving St. Augustine Fire and Rescue and St. Johns Sheriff Department Jacksonville FS0 VE Whatley Law Saturday events at Mandarin San Jose Blvd. Boat Ramp each month, plus NSBW there in May to include Academy Sports 18 May. Counterfeit Fire Extinguishers Notice The Coast Guard has recently become aware of counterfeits of U.S. Coast Guard approved portable fire extinguishers manufactured by Amerex Corporation and Buckeye Fire Equipment. Both companies are major producers of genuine approved fire extinguishing equipment and serve a worldwide market. These counterfeit extinguishers present a significant safety hazard. Their capability to extinguish a fire is unproven; they may be charged with a powdery substance that is not a fire extinguishing agent, the pressure cylinder is not DOT approved, and the pressure gauge may not function or give false readings "

15 New VE Qualifications There is a new power point presentation is from the National V Department. regarding new Examiner qualifications and re-quals It also includes directions to perform VSC s on power driven vessels prior to paddle craft and or any other type of vessels (sail, etc). Thinking is that a new Examiner or Re-Qual Examiner is to be familiar with power operated vessels first which takes in more items to exam during a thorough Vessel Safety Check. This material can be utilized for those Flotillas who have not completed their annual VE Workshop VESSEL AND PWC FACILITY OFFER FOR USE POLICY DISTRICT 7 V Department confirms the following District 7 policy for OPFAC vessel and PWC inspection and re-inspection procedures effective 25 March ANSC form # 7003 for boat facilities and form # 7008 for PWC facilities are required for all new or re-inspected facilities. Use the most current dated form (revised 06-11) For the Initial Offer for Use, a copy of the current State Registration is required. (Even if it's Documented). Include a side picture of the facility with "registration numbers legible". Write the facility owner s name and member number on the picture. Documented vessels must have two photos. (SIDE view and STERN view showing hailing port) No additional photographs are required for re-inspections for (Re- Offers). The Directors Office will maintain a photo of the the Facility in the members jacket for future reference. If a co-owner is not an Auxiliary member, a signed consent form must be submitted "annually". This form is available in the Operations Policy Manual, Appendix B. If the facility is owned by a corporation, a Corporate Resolution must be submitted. This form is available in the Operations Policy Manual, Appendix A If the facility is now, or has ever been listed at or above 30 knots (35 MPH), then the 50 MPH PFD is required for the facility operator. The "Examiner" must make a notation on the form, in the remarks area, that the PDF aboard the inspected facility meets the District 7 (50 MPH life jacket requirement) (""Insert the Vessel Examiners Signature here "") NO INITIALS. This is a legal document! The Examiner must sign his/her name in this section! Facility location must be listed by City and State and ZIP code.. No beach name; Marina Name or inland lake name. Facility Identification: Length in feet, division number, flotilla number, last three digits of the member s ID number. Example: (length) (div) (Flo) (last 3 of the members #) Note: There are no waivers of any requirements in District Seven. DIRAUX is encouraging all facility owners to complete all re-inspections on the 7003 or 7008 forms "45 days in advance" of the expiration date. If the facility requires a New Operational Decal and Wreath, it must be requested and so noted in the top right margin of the form for the ANSC 7003 OR ANSC The current forms can be found at the national website under Forms. Always use the latest form. Remember to use the most current forms (06 11) The accepted Offer For Use will be distributed by the Flotilla Commander when returned from the Directors Office

16 Remember that your current "State Registration "must be attached" to your Original Offer or Re-Inspection for acceptance "every year" The QE's are recording this on their check rides. Remember, if your Vessel is Documented, both the State Registration and the Coast Guard Documentation must be attached with your offer * if applicable. Two photographs are required (a) side photo of the vessel (b) stern photo showing the name and hailing port (correct size) Remember that the LOA (length overall) must match on all documents. If the Documented certificate reads 37.5 feet, then that same LOA must be written on your ANSC If your "State" registration reads LOA as 23.5 (then that same measurement must be on your Offer for use! If the Value of your vessel increases, then attach a seperate paper showing what improvements were made in the last year. Otherwise, the value would remain the same or be lower with age. Signatures must be signed in blue ink! Damaged decal? Request another top right margin page one Flotilla Commander s Signature is no longer required Qualified Designated Coxswains must be listed by Name and member number. ALL is not acceptable on page 2 Section VII (when I m not onboard) ONE YEAR RULE. Facilities must be used on duty on patrol within one year after acceptance. (A letter from the Owner/ Operator must be sent to DIRAUX) if the vessel was not used in the past 12 months. Offer for Use Forms will no longer be sent to the Miami Office! Acceptance letters (Word docx file) will be returned via an notification. Members can download a free WORD READER from Microsoft. These changes will greatly reduce the time to process Offer for Use forms and member notification. It is recommended that the SO VE (in each Division )have a working knowledge and be prepared to monitor the correct completion and submission of the Initial or Re Inspection Offer for Use Forms when called upon by his membership in his/her Division. Offer for Use are to ed to Some Common Errors with Facility Re Inspections Which Delay Acceptance Failure to list city and state in Section II Location Change in speed capabilities not justified by a change of engine in Section II Fuel Consumption Failure to indicate 25 WATTS and All Channels in Section II VHF FM Radio A change upward of the vessel value not justified by a change of engine, electronics or other explanation in Section II Value of Vessel Neglecting to confirm 50MPH PFD onboard for all facilities able to exceed 29 knots in Section II Remarks (MUST HAVE THE EXAMINERS SIGNATURE) Failure to check the first and third appropriate boxes in Section III Neglecting to get signatures of multiple owners in Section III Neglecting to initial the bottom of Section III, regardless of whether the facility is trailer able. Remember, "all" owners must initial this section!

17 Failure to check all boxes in Section IV. (The Auxiliary no longer accepts non operational facilities.) Indicating N/A for mandatory equipment such as Navigation Plotting Instruments in Section VI. There are no waivers in District Seven. Indicating N/A for mandatory equipment such as Kicker (Skiff) Hook in Section VII. There are no waivers in District Seven. Failure to check the appropriate box in Section VIII. ( ALL coxswains is NOT acceptable.) Since orders are issued only to coxswains, members who own facilities and who are not coxswains, must indicate who may operate their vessel Failure to initial the bottom of Section VIII. Remember all owners must initial. A copy of your State Registration or Documentation must be attached to your Offer every year to ensure the vessel is currently in date with your State or Documentation Certificate. Documented Vessels must have two (2) photographs submitted with the "original" Offer for use (Side and Stern) Please write the members name and member # on the backs of the photographs LOA (length overall) measurements in feet and inches must match on all paperwork. Values of Vessels being Offered for Use must maintain the same or less value (unless major improvements were made in the last year)..attached improvements on a seperate paper along with your Offer Ask the Vessel Examiner to sign his/her name on the second page (right hand margin Item # 47 certifying the lifejacket meets the 7 th District Policy. VE s Signature! No initials. Page # 2 (top margin) print the members name and member # and all additional pages 3. New PV members and Training conducted for members One member completed test and ready to conduct supervised visits for qualification. 4. New PV Program Partner Contacts made Several new contacts made, none recruited into the PV program yet 5. Assistance furnished to flotilla PV members or others No report 6. Names individuals to be recognized for exemplary performance No report 7. Provide information on any department issues, action taken and issue status. No report

18 Special News Features The 2013 St Johns River Celebration The 18th annual St. Johns River Cleanup & Celebration on Saturday, March 16, 2013 was a one-day community volunteer cleanup of the St Johns River and its major tributaries. As the longest river in Florida, the St Johns spans all of Division 14, connecting inland creeks and lakes and meeting with the Atlantic Ocean in Jacksonville. St Johns is on the list of America s Ten Most Endangered Rivers, and this annual event helps raise public awareness of the importance and vulnerability of this vital resource. Libby Rattrie, SO-MS and Neil Rattrie, SO-NS from Flotilla 14-5 represented Division 14 s Prevention Outreach efforts, manning an informational kiosk at Camp Chowenwaw in Green Cove Springs to help increase awareness of maritime pollution issues and improve compliance with marine environmental protection laws and regulations. Important messages included: effects of oil, hazardous chemicals, waste and debris on the marine environment; how marine environmental protection laws apply to various marine users; and ways groups and individuals can take action to protect the marine environment. Other Auxiliarists from 14-5: Willem Loupatty, IPFC; John Russette, SO-CM; Wayne Beard, FSO-PE/MT and Dusty Cooper also supported the event by maintaining radio communications between the various cleanup sites throughout Clay County, event headquarters at Camp Chowenwaw, and Flotilla HQ in Green Cove Springs.. Uniform Matters All Hands Form a straight line! The Gig Line, that is. A. The edge of the shirt, edge of the trouser fly, and edge of the buckle on the wearer s right are in line. B. The inside edge of the metal end of the belt just touches the left side edge of the buckle.