UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY UNOFFICIAL NEWSLETTER

Archives 2003

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Aux Data

Cover of 28 DEC 03 Ratlines

28 DEC 03

FL67 AUX DATA RESULTS

HOLLIDAY FELLOWSHIP

 

        Flotilla 67 Holiday Party at CRYSTAL BAY DINING & CATERING, PEEKSKILL, NY

        BUFFET LUNCHEON , DECEMBER 14, 2003, 1:30-4:3O pm

 

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING UP-DATES:

 

The price for children 12 and under was $12.00.  Guest price  $24.95.

The price for  FL-67 members is $15.00.

13 DEC 03

ICE PATROL WORKSHOP

District 1(SR)  Aviation had an Ice Patrol Workshop  Saturday 13 Dec 03,

10:00 AM at the Caldwell Air Service Hanger on Essex County Airport (Caldwell).

 

District 1-SR has begun flying Ice Patrols, attendance was recommended for all Pilots, Observers & Trainees. The Workshop lasted approx. 1 1/2 to 2 hours and was followed by area Familiarization Flights and Actual Ice Patrols.

 

In addition to the District 1(SR) personnel who will present the class, we were also  joined by CWO Curt Barthel from Activities New York, who is the regular Coast Guard Officer responsible for Ice Patrols in our District.

 

 Check Netskeds for further details. Thanks to Flotilla 10-20 for hosting this event.

                09 DEC 03

DIVISION MEETING

There was a Division 6 Staff meeting on Tuesday, 09 DEC 03 at 7:30pm

03 DEC 03

FAA PILOTS WORKSHOP

On Wednesday, December 3, 2003  at 7:30pm  the FAA held an Aviation Safety Program, PILOTS WORKSHOPS-WINTER TOPICS at Westair Inc. Westchester County Airport (HPN)  For information on upcoming FAA programs call 631-755-1300 ext.241

01 DEC 03

Ratlines DEC 03 Feature Article

Old Flares, New Dilemma

15 NOV 03

CPR CLASS

Flotilla 67 conducted a CPR course at the Ossining Recreation Center
                      on Nov 15. This was followed by a 1st Aid course on Nov 22.

The Red Cross Adult, Child, and Infant CPR certifications were taught
by Jack and Marion Hayes.  Don Lloyd, Janet Morra, Skip Mumford,
Bob Daraio, Bonnie Blaho, and Cheryl Janson attended.

On 22 Nov 03 Jack and Marion gave the FIRST AID portion of the course.
Don Lloyd, Bob Daraio, Ralph Mumford, Janet Morra, Bill Smith,
Vinny & Maryann Stafford, Bonnie Blaho, Paige Flori, and Peter
Van Markwyk were there.

16 NOV 03

IMPORTANT NOTICE

1. The PA department requests a copy of any articles, stories or
interviews about or including the Auxiliary that were published THIS
YEAR.   This includes video/audio and print media. (Mr. Stanley will
duplicate original tapes and return them if requested).

2. Please send them to by December 15 to be included in this project.

3. Send via email at: KenStanley@RealtyExecutivesHG.com

or to the address below. 
 
Ken Stanley DSO-PA 1SR
U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
1972 Route 27
Edison, New Jersey 08817
Cell- 732-650-0992
Office- 732-248-3377

19 NOV 03

FLOTILLA 67 MEETING

There was a well attended FL67 meeting on Weds, 19 NOV 03, at the Ossining Recreation

Center. Fl67 was presented with an award for being one of the TOP 100 Flotillas

in Marine Dealer Visits. Thanks went to Ed Klotz, FSO/MV-67 and Bob Daraio, SO/MV-06.

Certificates of Appreciation went to the entire slate of Fl67 Staff Officers for 2003.

22 NOV 03

FIRST AID CLASS

23 OCT 03

BS&S Course

October 23^rd BSS course class No. #4 @ Mildred Strang Middle School, Yorktown.

19 OCT 03

CONGRESSWOMAN SUE KELLY PATROLS THE HUDSON

Lou Liotti arranged for an October 19, 2003  Hudson River patrol with Congresswoman Sue Kelly aboard Launch 5, a Flotilla 6-7 Operational Facility. We were also honored to have in attendance Capt. Daniel R. Croce & Commander James L. Munro from the US Coast Guard, and Ossining Police Chief Kenneth Donato. Numerous Division 6 Facilities were patroling the Hudson and Westchester News 12 was along to document the event. Antoinette Biordi of News 12 narrated a great 2 minute spot on the Coast Guard Auxiliary's valuable help in the Hudson River. Enjoy a short video of the event and view  photos.

(Photo from Force67.com)

18 OCT 03

Instructor Training

October 18^th Flotilla Instructor Training at the Ossining Boat & Canoe Club, 9am to12noon.

16 OCT 03

BS&S Course

October 16^th , BSS course class No. #3 at Mildred Strang Middle School, Yorktown.

15 OCT 03

Flotilla 67 Meeting

Weds. October15^th , Flotilla Meeting at the Ossining Boat & Canoe Club- Election of Officers.

Don Lloyd was reelected Flotilla Commander of FL67 for 2004 and Sandy Weiser was elected Vice Flotilla Commander.

The six Fl67 members who made Crew were congratulated. They include Sandy Weiser, Paige Flori, Maryann Stafford, Steve Blaho, Bill Smith, and Peter Van Markwyk.  Steve Daraio, Frank Maresca, and Bill Smith received congratulations on becoming qualified as Vessel Examiners. Bob Daraio received Certificates for completing the US Coast Guard Incident Command System (ICS) I-100 Course as well as the USCG Aux Marine safety and Environmental Protection Department's "Good Mate" Program.  In addition Sandy Weiser has completed all requirements for both Air observer and Aircrew. Rick Veit has qualified as an Air observer.

14 OCT 03

Division Meeting

On Tuesday, October 14^th  there was be a Division Meeting hosted by Flotilla 67 at the Ossining Boat and Canoe Club. Division Officer elections were held. Dick Birgler was elected Division Captain and Lou Liotti was elected Division Vice Captain.

11 OCT 03

America's Boating Course

On Saturday October 11^th  there will be an America’s Boating Course at the Ossining Community  Recreation Center from 10am to 6pm.

09 OCT 03

               BS&S Course

On October 9^th  there will be a BS&S Course at Mildred Strang Middle School, Yorktown, Class No. #2.

02 OCT 03

BS&S Course

On October 2^th  there will be a BS&S Course at Mildred Strang Middle School, Yorktown, Class No. #1.

27 SEPT 03

BOATING SAFELY COURSE

There was a Boating Safely course at the Ossining Recreation Center from 10am to 6pm today. The class was taught by Don Lloyd, Ted Kamp, and Bob Daraio.  FL67 members Paige Flori and Peter Van Markwyk assisted and took the course as well.

27 SEPT 03

TCT Training

The TCT is scheduled  for 0800 Sep 27^th 2003 at the Westchester Fire Training Center on  Dana Road,  Valhalla (Grasslands Reservation).

 Each Flotilla will be allowed 6 slots. Persons originally qualified in 1998, will be due for recertification before May 2004, therefore we will have to schedule a second course. Trainees are exempt for the first year (only if their qualifying date is after May 2004). Flotilla Commanders need to plan their lists and have them to Kevin Lustyk by 01 SEPT. You can contact him at Fireman37tt@yahoo.com.

20 SEPT 03

 Nominations for FL67 Elected Officers

DATE:        20 SEPT 03
FROM:       Robert Daraio, Chair FL67 Nomination Committee
NOTICE:    Nominations for FL67 Elected Officers

Nominations for 2004 FL67 Elected Officers are being
accepted from qualified Flotilla 67 Members.

Letters of intent to seek election as Flotilla
Commander or Flotilla Vice Commander for 2004 
can be sent to me at 45 Hunter Street, Ossining, 
N.Y. 10562

Nominations will be accepted and the election held at the
next FL67 meeting. This meeting to be held on Wednesday,
Oct 15, 2003 at 7:30PM at the Ossining Boat and Canoe Club.

To qualify for the position of Flotilla Commander (FC)
or Flotilla Vice Commander (VFC) one must be a member 
in good standing for at least a year. (Waivers can be 
requested in writing through the chain of command and 
communication.)

The nominated member must be qualified as at least one 
of the following:

Instructor, Vessel Examiner, Marine Dealer Visitor,
Boat Crew, Coxswain, Aids to Navigation Verifier,
Air Observer, Air Crew, or Pilot.

The nominated member must have passed the Administrative 
Procedures Course (APC) or be AUXMIN qualified.

If you have any questions, please contact me at 
(914) 944-9626 or at daraio@lycos.com at your earliest
convenience.

Respectfully,

Robert R. Daraio
SO/MV-06

20 SEPT 03

BOAT CREW QUALIFICATION

Congratulations to FL67 members Steve Blaho, Peter Van Markwyk, Bill Smith, and Sandy Weiser, who made Crew today!! Thanks go to our QEs Bill Voss and Vinny Stafford, and to SO/MT-06 Kevin Lustyk for a job well done.

20 SEPT 03

AVIATION BOATING SAFELY COURSE

DIRAUX requires all Div 1(SR) personnel to complete an approved boating safety
course (see below). New member applications are being held until this
requirement is met (as part of the BQ process). Current members who have not
yet met this requirement are expected to do so by 15Jul04.

On Saturday September 20, 2003, Flotilla 10-01 will host an approved boating
safety course at the restaurant at Lincoln Park Airport (N07) in NJ. Angelo
Lacatena will teach the course which will be streamlined for aviators and
observers, and which will satisfy the requirement.

The course will begin at 0900 and is expected to end in the early afternoon
(possibly before 1430). The cost for the course is $20 and includes the
required workbook. A lunch break will be scheduled but lunch is not included
in the $20.

Authorized Div 1(SR) pilots may request orders to fly to this event. Please take
trainees along if possible.

Please reply to Lou Barone, D1SR ADSO-AVPS at: 

Email: Louis.Barone@Verizon.net or Phone: (201) 934-1927 or Cell: (551) 427-5465,
if you are interested in attending this class, or if you have any questions.

17 SEP 03

FLOTILLA 67 MEETING

Flotilla 67 will meet at the Ossining Recreation Center
 on Wednesday, 17 SEP 03 at 7:30pm. There will be a Staff Officer's Meeting at 7pm.

13 SEPT 03

ENGINE-OUT WORKSHOP

On Saturday, September 13, 2003, D1SR Authorized pilots are invited to attend an Engine-Out Workshop to be help at Wurtzboro Airport (N82) in New York (http://www.airnav.com/airport/N82).

 

Starting at 1030, this workshop will include an engine-out and emergency-landing briefing followed by 15-20 minute demonstration flights in Schweizer SGS 2-33 gliders flown by FAA commercial glider rated pilots. The SGS 2-33 has an enclosed cockpit and is towed to 2500-feet AGL by an L-19 tow-plane. The purpose of the flights will be to demonstrate the techniques presented in the briefing, and may not include a 'soaring' demo.

 

The cost for each flight is $30. A catered picnic lunch may be provided at additional cost, to be determined later. Payments will be collected at Wurtzboro Airport.

 

Orders will be assigned to authorized D1SR Aviation Pilots/Facilities to fly to this training. Make an attempt to carry other D1SR aviation members along in your aircraft because this flight time is authorized for training. D1SR aviation members who are not authorized pilots may also attend, and their demo flights may be scheduled after the pilots have flown, based on availability.

 

If you want to drive to this event, Wurtzboro is located just North of Route 17 (the 'Quick Way') and is about 90-minutes from NYC. The Town of Wurtzboro has an interesting past due to it's proximity to the nearby canals and railroad, and the Airport is famous for glider rides and training since the early 1900's. The town has farms and a few well-known shops (eg Canal Town Emporium) to entertain your non-flying guests, and the famous Nevele resort is just a few miles North of Wurtzboro on Route 209. Why not make it an all-day event and visit some of these local sites too (http://www.wbot.org/history.html)?

 

If you are interested in attending this workshop, or if you have any questions, please reply to: Lou Barone, D1SR ADSO-AVPS Email:  Louis.Barone@Verizon.net
Office, Voicemail, FAX: (201) 934-1927 Cell: (551) 427-5465

 

09 SEPT 03

DIVISION MEETING

   Tuesday Sep 9, 2003   7:30PM Division 6 Meeting Firemen Training Center, Tarrytown.

The results of the District 1(SR) Election are in. See results below:

District1SR

          DCO --      Nicholas Kerigan (incumbent)

               VCO --                Charles Sferra (incumbent)

RCO-ACTNY-N --   Gail M. Venezio

                                RCO-ACTNY-S --      Stephen D. Ackerman (re-elected)

                                   RCO-GRU/MSO LONG ISLAND SOUND --  John J. Ilberg

                             RCO-GRU MORICHES --  Harvey M. Miller (re-elected)

Congratulations to all!

               07 SEPT 03

MS SWIM ACROSS THE HUDSON

The Annual MS benefit swim was held on Sept 7^th , between Piermont shore and Irvington shore on the Hudson. Area boats were asked to participate.  The start time was 1400.

   05 & 06 SEPT 03

DISTRICT 1(SR) MEETING

The District 1(SR) meeting was held on September 5 and 6 at the Newark Marriott.

No August Flotilla 6-7 Meeting

Click here for August Feature Article:

YOU AND YOUR BILGE

23 AUG 03

One Day Boating Safely Course

A One Day Boating Safely Course was held on Saturday, 23 AUG from10 A.M. to 6pm at The Ossining Recreation Center. There were 16 students from three states, all of whom passed the course. Don Lloyd, Annie Wildgoose, Bob Daraio, Marion and Jack Hayes, and Ed Kraynik ran this one day 8 hour program.

21 AUG 03

OPERATIONS MEETING AND PATROL PICKS

  There was an Operations Meeting at the Tarrytown Fireman's Training Center on Thursday, 21 AUG 03 for the purpose of picking a Patrol Schedule for the rest of the 2003 boating season. Bill Logan, SO/OP-06 ran the meeting with support from Jim DiPelesi. Dick Birgler, VDCP-06, Bob Daraio, SO/MV-06, Kevin Lustyik, SO/MT-06, and the students of the Coxswain Candidate Course were among those that were there.

20 AUG 03

SWIM TEST

A swim test was held at the Tarrytown YMCA pool (62 Main st) Tarrytown on August 20^th at 1900 hrs. Kevin Lustyik and Don Lloyd were there to support the three Crew Candidates who all passed.

17 AUG 03

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

Click link below for an important message from the Editor.

Justice Served

15 AUG 03

CROSSING THE BAR

Admiral Bennis' Memorial Service at the ACTNY Chapel was held on
Friday, August 15th at 1300.  Mrs. Bennis and the family attended.
       The Arlington National Cemetery interment is tentatively scheduled for 
Monday, September 23rd at 1300.

Click on the link for more information. CROSSING THE BAR 

14 AUG 03

BOAT CREW CHECK OFFS AND CURRENCY MAINTENANCE

On Thursday, August 14 at 1800 there was an opportunity for Check Offs and Currency Maintenance at the Washington Irving Boat Club in Tarrytown.

09 AUG 03

PUBLIC EDUCATION CLASS

There was a Boating Safely PE Course at the Washington Irving Yacht Club on 

Saturday, August 9, 2003.  The 9 students were taught by Skip Mumford, 

Stephen Schmidt, and Bob Daraio. Members Frank Maresca and Steve Daraio

took the class as well. The class included the CT. Boating/PWC Supplement 

and the NYS PWC test.

01 AUG 03

COAST GUARD DAY

There was be a picnic with games and more at Activities N.Y. on 01 AUG 03. we hope you didn't miss your chance to dunk Chief Joffe!

Click here for Coast Guard Day Schedule

27 JULY 03

WELLSOURCE DAY

Click on the link to check out Commander Bone's fitness challenge.

Wellsource Day at Activities N.Y.

19 JULY 03

DIVISION 6 COMMUNICATIONS DRILL

1.    On Saturday morning, July 19, 2003 at 10:00 AM there was  a practice Communications drill for all Fixed Land and Mobile Radio Facilities within Division 6. The purpose of the drill was to determine the level of participation and to test the reliability of our radio system.

2.    Radio Tarrytown, located in the Cupola at the Tarrytown Boat Club acted  as the Net Control Station using low power (1 Watt). Net Control requested  all stations to check in using their Auxiliary Call Signs. Net Control called  the Land Stations first, then Mobile Stations, and then any Operational Vessels participating. Net Control read back the list of participants from the log, conduct business if required, and then closed the net.

3.    Channel 81 (157.075 MHZ) was the authorized frequency used for this exercise. Participants monitored the frequency 5 minutes prior to 1000 and stood by for the entire drill.      

4. The following stations responding:

             1  Fixed Station
                  Radio Tarrytown (3)

             4  Mobiles Stations
                   6 Hotel
                   6 Juliet
                   6 Lima
                   6 November

             3  Vessel Facilities
                   234212
                   252596
                   251531

 5. Another Practice Drill will be scheduled during the month of August. For more detailed information, call Art Spinner (SO/CM-06)  on (914) 423-1022

16 JULY 03

FLOTILLA MEETING

Wednesday,  July 16, 2003 7:30PM Flotilla 6-7 Meeting Ossining Boat & Canoe Club.

8 JULY 03

DIVISION MEETING

 Tuesday, July 8, 2003, 7:30PM Division 6 Meeting Mahopac, VFW Hall

5 JULY 03

THE 
JOURNAL NEWS

Click on the link below to see the 05 JULY 03 

THE JOURNAL NEWS 
BEING A BETTER BOATER  (By JONATHAN KAY) 

21 JUNE 03

DISTRICT MEETING

Click here for SEEBALD - A COAST GUARD FAMILY

 Saturday June 21, 2003 District Meeting ACTNY, Ft Wadsworth, Staten Island. Don Lloyd, Dick Birgler, and Bob Daraio were there to see the retirement ceremony for CWO Tom Peck and Commander Ed Sebald.  We all wish them both smooth sailing into their post Coast Guard adventures.

Click on the link to see images from the District Meeting

 District Conference, A Celebration and Farewell 

18 JUNE 03

FLOTILLA 67 MEETING

 Wednesday June 18, 2003   7:30PM Flotilla 6-7 Meeting Ossining Moose Lodge. We were treated to a 20 minute training video made of the recent Helo demo event. See more info at: www.Launch5.com

14 JUNE 03

OSSINING VILLAGE FAIR

Saturday June 14, 2003  saw a beautiful day for the the Ossining Village Fair. Flotilla 67's booth was visited by many of the over 3000 people attending the fair. Don Lloyd, Rick Veit, Bob Daraio, Sandy Weiser, and Sandy's son Jessie handed out lots of Boating Safety information.

14 JUNE 03

POKER RUN

The New York City Powerboat Poker Run 2003  on the Hudson River was held on Saturday, June 14th,2003. Members of the USCG Auxiliary  provided operational safety assistance for this exciting annual event. Boats reached speeds in excess of 150 mph.

10 June 03

DIV 6 MEETING

USCG Aux. Division 06 met at 7:30pm on Tuesday, 08 APR 2003 at
Beczak Environ. Center. Yonkers. ID pictures were taken.

5 Jun 03

OPERATIONS MEETING AND WORKSHOP

Picked Patrols at Tarrytown Marina, 2nd floor Tuesday June 10, 2003. 

17-23 MAY 03 

22 MARCH 03

ONE DAY BOATING SAFELY COURSE

  The next One Day Boating Safely Course was held on Saturday, 22 MAR 03 from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. at The Ossining Recreation Center. Cramped for time? Can't make evening? The BSC covers all the basic boating information seen as essential by state and national regulators, but in a course that's shorter than our traditional offerings. Click on Where is Ossining? for directions to Ossining, New York.

16 MARCH 03

VE/MDV WORKSHOP

   The annual Vessel Examiner and Marine Dealer Visitor Workshop was  held from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, March16,2003 at the Ossining Boat and Canoe Club.

Click here Workshop for images from the VE/MV Workshop

13 MAR 03

DAVID BROWN BURIED AT ARLINGTON NATIONAL 13 MAR 03

Click here  for  Services  for Captain David Brown, USN 13 March 03

MARCH 7-9,2003

THE 2003  DISTRICT 1(SR) CONFERENCE

Click on this link to see images from the 2003 District Conference

TINY's PICTURES

watauber's Album: BFAXWRBYG8 Click on the link above to view the 24 images in this album of the District Meeting at the 1(SR) District Conference. These were taken by Tiny Tauber Official Division 6 Photographer.

This was your chance to take a swim test, participate in workshops, take some AUXOP exams, meet new people, see old friends.

  Click on the image below for information and registration forms.

06-09 MARCH 03

DANBURY BOAT SHOW 

The Danbury Mall Boat Show was from Thursday through Sunday, March 6-9, 2003, from 11am to 7pm. We had people running the USCG Auxiliary Booth on all days. Thanks to Chris Stewart chrisstewart@rcn.com for his help coordinating this detail.

03 MARCH 03

HISTORIC CHANGE WATCH  

USCG and Auxiliary moved to Homeland Security. Click on Link above for details.

FEBRUARY 2003

February

11 - Division meeting, Verplanck, King Marina

19 - Flotilla meeting, Paresi's Restaurant, Ossining

FLOTILLA 67 MEETING AT PARESI'S 19 FEB 03

(Greg Porteus, Sandy Weiser, Janet Morra, Frank D. Maresca, and Alex Cascione at Paresi's Steak house in Ossining)

There was a nice turn out for the February Flotilla  meeting  at Paresi's Steak House in Ossining. Alex Cascione, DSO-MV was there along with three new member prospects from the Jefferson Valley Mall Boat Show last weekend.

(Bob's new license plates)

Bob Daraio, VFC 67, is usually found doing something at his Video Engineer job at the WB11 or on a United States Coast Guard Auxiliary mission.

6 FEB 03

BREAKING THE ICE

   Auxiliarists Lynn Valenti, Jim Lambert, and Jim DiPelesi went on an ice breaking mission aboard USCG  WTGB 107, Penobscot Bay, on Thurs, Feb. 6, 03.

(WTGB Bay Class Ice breaking Cutter)

  They  boarded at Kingston, New York and patrolled the frozen waters of the upper Hudson River.

   The U.S. Coast Guard defines a "Cutter" as a vessel over 65 foot in length, with crew accommodations for extended operations.

   WTGB 107, Penobscot Bay, is one of the Coast Guard's  9, state of the art, Bay Class, Diesel/Electric, multi-mission  Cutters.

   The 140-foot Bay-class Cutters are  icebreakers used primarily for domestic ice breaking duties. They are named after American Bays and are stationed mainly in Northeast U.S. and Great Lakes. 

    The  Penobscot Bay is specially configured  with an advanced hull design and engineering plant, as well as a "bubbler" hull air-lubrication system for coastal icebreaking and winter flood relief operations. 

  The " bubbler system" provides low-pressure -air hull lubrication  that forces air and water between the hull and ice. This  improves icebreaking capabilities by reducing resistance against the hull, which in turn, reduces horsepower requirements.
 

   Built by Bay City Marine in  Tacoma, Washington, the 690 ton Penobscot Bay can cruise  through ice 24 inches thick at 3 knots and ram a channel through ice three feet thick! 

   She gets a top speed of 14.7 knots from her single shaft, 2,500 bhp diesel/electric power plant. WTGB 107 can  cruise 1,500 miles at full speed and has a maximum range of 7,000 miles at 7 knots.

(Bridge of WTGB 107)

   Despite the freezing weather, Lynn, and the two Jims stayed warm and dry in their USCG approved winter gear.

(Jim Lambert and Jim DiPelesi aboard WTGB Penobscot Bay)

   Along with her sister ship, WTGB 109, Sturgeon Bay, WTGB Penobscot Bay and her crew perform maritime safety, protection of natural resources, and maritime security missions out

 of their home port in Bayonne, New Jersey.

(WTGB Bay Class Ice breaking Cutter)

(USCG and USCG Aux members aboard WTGB 107)

(View of Upper Hudson from USCG WTGB Penobscot Bay)

(Another pilot house view of WTGB 107)

(WTGB Bay Class Ice breaking Cutter)

FEB 14-24

BOAT SHOW

   There is a USCG Auxiliary Booth at the Jefferson Valley Mall Boat Show in the mall at 650 Lee Blvd., Yorktown Heights, N.Y.

(by  Bonnie Pottok)

   There was a great showing of USCG Auxiliarists at the booth this past weekend. We had the pleasure of speaking with the public, young and old alike and were well received by all.

   We explained that the Auxiliary is an organization with a cause, where there is so much available to learn as well as an environment to meet people who have similar ideas and love boating.

   Boating Safety was talked about with the mall shoppers and staff and coloring books given to the children passing by. Schedules were available to those that showed an interest in boating safety courses and handouts to those who were interested in the USCG Auxiliary.

   Videos played in a loop on our new flotilla VHS/TV monitor to attract onlookers. We hope to see some new recruits for our efforts this week. I will keep you posted on all new members as we welcome them into our flotilla.

   We need Auxiliarists for shifts on Saturday 22 February 2003 and Sunday 23 February 2003. Any hours you can be available to man the booth between 10am and 5pm either or both days would be appreciated.

   Auxiliarists are needed for all days, all shifts. If you have a couple of hours free, contact  the USCG Aux Division 6 coordinator for this event for details at    e-mail address:   chrisstewart@rcn.com, or call  (845)228-1430

Directions to the Jefferson Valley Mall

1. Taconic Parkway to Route 6.

2. East on Route 6 for 1/4 mile.

3. Turn right onto Lee Blvd.

4. Turn left into Mall Parking lot.

   The Jefferson Valley Mall  is operated by the Simon Company. For more mall information click on the link shopsimon.com

11 FEB 03

DIVISION MEETING

USCG Aux. Division 06 met at
7:30pm on Tuesday, 11 FEB 2003 at
King Marine in Verplanck.

AUXDATA 2002 RESULTS

 Here are the latest AUXDATA results for FL67.

    AUX ADMIN                  7,233
    PATROLS                        1,000
    CG ADMIN                        265
    CG OPS                                 58
     TREATIES                             16
     MEMBER TRAINING       227
     SAR                                        31
     MDV                                    632
     PA                                    1,182
     PE                                        528
     RAP                                       55
    VE                                         65
_________________________

TOTAL                           11,292  

Flotilla 67 has the most hours in District 1(SR) and is number 8 in hours nationwide.

Flotilla 67 leads the entire United States Coast Guard Auxiliary in Marine Dealer Visits !!

Thanks to everyone in the Unit for a job well done.

THE COLUMBIA CREW

(L to R Top: David Brown, Laurel Clark, Michael Anderson, Ilan Ramon Bottom: Rick Husband, Kalpana Chawla, William McCool )

"And He will lift them up on eagles wings ... and hold them in the palm of His hand."

 (Dr. David Brown, Captain USN, Astronaut)

COLUMBIA

Note from Bob Daraio VFC-67: Dave Brown was an old friend of mine. One of my teachers from back in college, Warren Bacon, sent me this. It seemed to sum up this tragic event  eloquently, so I'm sharing his words with you.

Thoughts on the Columbia Crew

By Warren Bacon

   In today's world, we sadly lack heroes -- those who we can admire and respect for their brilliance, courage, and skill.  Years ago, I found my heroes in the astronauts who chose to stretch the limits of man's abilities, those who chose to risk their lives for the sake of knowledge, those who represent all that is good and right with the human species.  The astronauts broke the boundaries of race, religion, politics, and gender to ever expand our knowledge of where we came from, who we are, and where we could go.  Such courage, determination, self discipline, and dedication are the characteristics of true heroes.

   Our world lost not one, but seven, heroes yesterday morning.  We tend to take the comings and goings of the shuttle for granted here in Central Florida.  But, at every launch I still go outside and watch in envy, awe, and fascination as the shuttle reaches to the sky.  I await the twin sonic booms that announce the spacecraft's arrival home. 

   Saturday morning, I waited for the arrival of the booms since the path would not bring the ship into view from home.  9:16 came and went -- no booms.  I turned on the TV to hear the news and I cried.  I cried not for me and not for the brave crew of Columbia, and not for Columbia herself, the grand lady of the shuttle fleet, but I cried for the world and for the children who will not have these seven heroes to be a part of their lives. 

   Their work and their memory will live forever in our hearts and in our minds.  Much of their work was down linked and will open more doors for those to come in many fields of science.  And, along with the Apollo crew and the Challenger crew, we still have their courage, dedication, and brilliance to serve as goals to strive toward.

"And He will lift them up on eagles wings ... and hold them in the palm of His hand."

01 FEB 03

AUX AVIATORS LOST

The next time someone suggests that being an Auxiliary or part time isn't as "real" or doesn't count as much as being  full time, suggest they read this story. Click on link above for details.

JANUARY 2003

January Schedule

9-12 - Atlantic Sail Expo, Atlantic City

14 - Division meeting, Mahopac VFW Hall

15 - Flotilla meeting, Ossining Boat & Canoe club

16 - BSS Class #1, Ossining, Thursday’s Course-A

18 - District meeting, Saturday, Wadsworth, NJ

23 - BSS class #2A

3o - BSS class #3A

Have You Seen This Man?

If found, please return to Flotilla 67.

JAN.15,2003

FLOTILLA MEETING WEDS

Flotilla 67 met at the Ossining boat and Canoe Club on Weds. 15 JAN 03. TCT Certificates were presented and John Owens received his Crew Qualification.

14 JAN 03

DIV 6 MEETING

USCG Aux. Division 06 met at 7:30pm on Tuesday, 14 Jan 2003 at the Lake Mahopac. 

15 JAN 03

WB11 AWARDS

   The USCG Auxiliary was going to  present Certificates of Appreciation to a number of WB11 employees for their support of Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary activities on Wednesday, 15 January 03 at 2pm.

   The event has been postponed until the March 2003 Quarterly "All Hands Meeting" to accommodate USCG and USCG Aux scheduling.

    This ceremony will take place as part of a WPIX quarterly "All Hands Meeting" in the "WB11 News At 10" and "WB11 Morning News" studio at 220 East 42nd Street, New York, N.Y.

    Long time "WB11 News at 10" Anchor/Reporter and "WB11 News Close-up" host Marvin Scott, Weatherman Joe Cioffe, Announcer Roy Whitfield,
Engineer Horace Scott, and Promotions Producer David McDonald will be honored for their efforts in the production of 24 Radio Public Service Announcements promoting the USCG Aux "Boat Smart" program.

   WPIX General Manager Betty Ellen Berlamino, WB11 Station Manager Vince Giannini, and Director of Engineering Michael Gano will receive thanks for continuing to make the production, editing, duplication, and administrative facilities of WPIX available for use by the USCG and Auxiliary.

  WB11 Morning News reporter Craig Treadway will be honored for his "Coastie" story that aired during Fleet Week 2002.

   WB11 Editor Jen Cleary will be recognized for her contributions to www.ratlines.com , the USCG Flotilla 67 website.

   WB11 Engineer In Charge Joyce Bellfield, Editor Bill Masterakis, Master Control Technical Director Ace Zaken,  Video Engineer Bob Daraio, Weatherman Joe Cioffe, and Associate Director Pat Danna will receive a Unit Citation given to all USCG and USCG Auxiliary members for the tremendous amount of hours put in after the September 11 tragedy.

   The support of organizations like WPIX is key to the ongoing success of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Bravo Zulu to everyone at the WB11.

08 JAN 03

RAYMARINE VISITS LAUNCH 5

    Capt. James J. Hughes, National Manager Government/Military Sales, and Senior Product Support Engineer, George M. Martin, from Raymarine, Inc., joined H.O. Penn, Marine Analyst, Craig M. Davis for a ride on Launch 5 on Tuesday, Jan. 8. For more detailed information about Launch 5, her history, specifications, restoration, and crew go to:                                                    www.Launch5.com

     Jim and George were there to check on how the Raymarine Pathfinder Radar/Chart Plotter (RL80CRC Plus) installed on the launch was working.

   Craig wanted an update on the twin Caterpillar diesel engines he helped arrange to be installed during the restoration of  Launch 5. he seemed happy with the results as they cruised down the Hudson.

   This great Raymarine package has already been instrumental in saving life and property. While towing a distressed vessel on the Hudson River in darkness one night, the radar picked up a target ahead which appeared to be moving toward Launch 5. A visual scan of the river ahead turned up nothing.

   Deciding not to take a chance, Coxswain Greg Porteus steered wide of the target's location and watched a sailboat slip by his port side minutes later without navigation lights.

   Perhaps more dramatic was the daylight rescue of a family in the water under the Bear Mountain Bridge. After being dumped from their capsized jet ski, the members of the family were drifting apart. With a barge bearing down on them, Greg and his crew needed to act quickly to maneuver the 25 ton launch over to a 3 year old drifting into questionable waters.

   Hypothermia and a barge collision being real possibilities, there was no time to pull out his river chart to find a way to the child. The accuracy of the differential GPS and the 10" display on the chart plotter enabled Greg to quickly locate the fastest, safe route  to the child and pilot right in without hesitation.

   The child was rescued, hypothermia was avoided by prompt first aid, and all survived.

   Even for routine navigation, USCG Aux Coxswain Greg Porteus would prefer not to do without the chart plotter. "Running up and down the Hudson is one thing. But we often find ourselves patroling off the north shore of Long Island  and if you've ever been over there, you can imagine what a great help this system can be  for threading through all the submerged rocks, shoals, and islands", says Greg.

   Apparently they're not stopping there. Launch 5 crewman, Bill Smith, already has
plans to expand the system: "What I like about this from a systems perspective is that it's very expandable and you can build on it incrementally according to needs and budget. It's a whole network. The first thing I'd like to add is  Raymarine's Pathfinder Smart Heading Sensor, which is a stabilized fluxgate compass. Unlike what you get from a GPS, we'll have highly accurate heading data on the radar/plotter even at a total standstill."

   "But I'm really looking forward to enabling the chart overlay and MARPA features of the radar, which requires accurate heading data" says Bill. He would also like to add another networked display, computer interface for off-line route programming, and sonar to this already capable system.

   Raymarine has designated Launch 5 as a beta testing site for new marine electronics packages. A new 10" Color Sonar Display will arrive shortly.

   Raymarine will be working closely with USCG Auxiliary Member Training and Public Education Officers to develop an in depth GPS and Radar training program. Read more about Raymarine at www.raymarine.com

  For more detailed information about Launch 5, her history, specifications, restoration, and crew go to:

www.Launch5.com

07 JAN 03

FREE EMS TRAINING FOR USCG AUX MEMBERS

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!

Happy New Year to all of our 36,000 Auxiliarists!

   We've always known that the Auxiliary's volunteer support is a major factor in the Coast Guard's ability to accomplish so many missions, so well. We've also known that the Auxiliary's volunteer support has been the rock-solid foundation of several of these operational and administrative successes, especially in recent years.

   Take preventive search and rescue (a.k.a. boating safety) for example. We'll never know just how many lives have been saved due to the Auxiliary's efforts. My guess would be a hundred - likely a few hundred - each and every year. That means several thousand lives saved over the years.

   How about the Auxiliary's Academy Introduction Mission (AIM) program. Talk about great successes!

   As yet but another example, let's take maritime security surge o