PUBLISHED BY
THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY
7TH COAST GUARD DISTRICT

BREEZE

THIRD ISSUE 2000
GOLD AND SILVER
NOKOMIS REDEDICATION

7TH DISTRICT

Published by the U.S.C.G. Auxiliary
7th Coast Guard District
909 SE First Avenue
Miami FL 33131

District Commander
RADM Thad W. Allen

Director of Auxiliary
CDR Kurt Nancarrow

Assistant Director of Auxiliary
CWO Johnnie C. Long

Administrative Asst. to DIRAUX
William H. Wilson

VOLUME XLVII - NUMBER 3

THE BREEZE will now be printed twice a year. The first issue will be published after the Spring Conference held May 31 - June 2 in Melbourne, Florida. A new deadline of June 24th for all articles you want to appear in that issue.

Remember the deadline is not a due date but a real deadline. No articles can be accepted after that date if we are to get The BREEZE out on time. So please send your articles anytime soon. The earlier the better. Please feel free to use e-mail and electronic pictures are acceptable.

Conference registration forms will be available on this website for all conferences.

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

Telephone numbers and addresses of members are protected by the Privacy Act of 1974. As a matter of policy, rosters of names, addresses and telephone numbers shall not be made available to the general public or any outside organization. Privacy of all rosters shall be safeguarded and the page clearly labeled. The publication of these rosters, addresses, and telephone numbers on any computer on-line service including the Internet is prohibited by the Privacy Act of 1974.

The BREEZE is published at no expense to the government. Cost of its publication is borne by dues-paying members of the 7th District Coast Guard Auxiliary; a volunteer, unpaid civilian body whose mission is to assist the regular Coast Guard in promoting and maintaining safety on the water. Reprints of articles appearing in the BREEZE may be copied by other publications, provided proper credit is given.

EDITOR AND PUBLICATIONS OFFICER
Norma L. Karpiscak

DISTRICT COMMODORE
Helmut Hertle

"Well, who in his own backyard
Has not opened his heart to the smiling
Secret he cannot quote?"

Backyards are places for reflection and introspection. Standing here, I realize it was in this place I decided to begin this voyage. Here, I made the choice. I would become a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Standing here, now I can see my boat waiting patiently for me. I have certainly neglected it over the last two years. Oh, it is shiny and clean. The neglect is related to usage. Memories of exciting times afloat bring a cascade of visions of half-formed and partially remembered Auxiliary scenarios. Those were great times with true friends. I pray that I shall have them again. But I know that this wonderful boating reverie is not the reason my heart is smiling at this moment. Now, at this time, my inner joy is for the memories I have garnered on my present voyage with the Seventh District Auxiliary.

Representing and serving the members of the Seventh District Coast Guard Auxiliary, I am humbled and awestruck. The high degree of volunteerism I have found here has been, and remains, a constant source of satisfaction. When I started this voyage as DCO of the Seventh District Auxiliary, my simple vision for us was expressed in my desire to increase Auxiliary involvement in Seventh District Team Coast Guard, to make that involvement visible to the Auxiliary membership, and to add value to each service given our customers. At every opportunity and with every challenge you the membership have accomplished these goals without falter or hesitation. When I was asked to say a few words about the Seventh District Auxiliary at NACON 2000, I was proud to represent such a special group. I said"...that during my time as DCO, it has been my privilege to serve the members of the Seventh District Auxiliary. I am indebted to the membership for permitting me to serve them for two wonderful years of my life. In my mind, and through our deeds, the Seventh District Auxiliary is indeed a cut above, is indeed special."

I cannot express all that I am feeling. I would ask you to remember when prompted by something that you cannot quote and which brings a secret smile to your heart, to think of me. You are one of the reasons my heart is smiling. "Thank you" and "well-done" are inadequate recognition for what you have accomplished. Because you have always answered the call to meet new challenges with enthusiasm and enviable commitment to service opportunities as they have presented themselves, "good-luck" and "future success" are unnecessary wishes for this organization and its leadership. Let me continue my Auxiliary voyage, irrespective of where it may take me, with the knowledge that it is the membership of the Seventh District Coast Guard Auxiliary to which I have opened my heart. It is the sum of your freely given voluntary efforts which is the secret of our past and future success. Always, in every way - Semper Paratus.

TIME

Take time to think...it is the source of power.
Take time to play...it is the secret of perpetual youth.
Take time to read...it is the fountain of wisdom.
Take time to pray...it is the greatest power on earth.
Take time to laugh...it is the music of the soul.
Take time to give...it is too short a stay to be selfish.
Anonymous

Mary Larsen
DISTRICT VICE COMMODORE

This article is written with a mixture of regret and anticipation. Regret that two years spent as your Vice Commodore are coming to an end. Working with Helmut Hertle to help carry forward his vision for the Seventh District has been a memorable experience, both challenging and rewarding.

Working with the district staff has been equally rewarding. They were never too busy to respond when we turned to them for help with new programs, even while continuing to work with existing ones. They met new ideas and new programs with enthusiasm. My personal thanks go to all of them for their advice and support throughout the two years and for all they have done and continue to do for members of the Seventh District.

However, it is with a sense of anticipation that I look forward to the next two years serving as your Commodore. During his tenure as District Commodore, Helmut has built on the secure base inherited from previous administrations. He has added new programs, putting the district on the "cutting edge" nationally. When it comes to innovative, pilot programs, and new concepts, we are out in front. At the same time, every set of statistics released re-enforces the fact that we excel in the traditional programs like public education, vessel examination, marine visits and operations. With the support of the incoming Board, I plan to continue the forward momentum. We can enhance our programs, traditional and new ones, while meeting challenges and adapting to changing conditions.

The short and long-term goals I foresee for the district in order to carry forward our programs are posted on the district web site. There are three I'd like to highlight. "Continue to focus primary attention of membership district-wide on the traditional missions of recreational boating safety," and "expand use of electronic communications wherever possible and explore new avenues of utilization." Finally, "continue to emphasize value of service provided to internal and external customers by members of the Auxiliary."

However, the only thing that will make it possible to realize these goals and keep the momentum going is the efforts of the members of the Seventh District. You make these achievable.

Our district is rich, rich in the members who work at all different levels in all our various programs to support the needs of the boating public and the Coast Guard, our customers. You, the members, are the Seventh District. Serving as your Vice Commodore was a source of great pride. To look forward to serving as your Commodore, what a challenge!

DESTINY

To live content with small
means; to seek elegance
rather than luxury,
and refinement rather
than fashion;
to be worthy, not
respectable, and
wealthy, not rich;
to study hard, think
quietly, talk gently,
act frankly; to listen to
stars and birds, to
babes and sages, with
open heart; to bear all
cheerfully, do all
bravely,
await occasions, hurry
never.
In a word to let
the spiritual,
unbidden and unconscious, grow up
through the common.
This is to be my symphony.
William Ellery Channing
(1780 - 1842)

FROM THE NORTH
Jay Dahlgren
Rear Commodore North

Those of you aspiring to and gaining elected office will find that, sadly, an elected term of office is up before you realize it. It is time to give you my last report as Rear Commodore North.

The experience has been most rewarding. My successor, Kent Shockey, RCO-N (e) (congratulations, Kent) will soon begin realizing the satisfaction of working with the capable and willing North Auxiliarists. I have been proud to represent all of you on the District Board as your Rear Commodore. We accomplished much. I commend Division Captains 2, Susan Cummings; 10, Kent Shockey; 20, Robert Mathewes; 14, Barry Candreia, their Vice Captains and staff for their consistent display of leadership, teamwork and (thank you) cooperation.

I have received reports that many of the Flotilla Commanders found success in the first year of the Flotilla Business Plan. This is truly a great tool and with experience, will be the single most important one for use by the flotillas. The North has enjoyed tremendous success in the recently enacted Vessel Safety Check Program with nearly all-adjacent U.S. Power Squadrons trained or being trained. Hopefully this is just the beginning of our closer ties with the Power Squadrons.

I wish to remember the faithful Auxiliarists that have passed on. These were special people. All too often we don't realize how much we value them until they are gone. We are all blessed in many ways, but a special one is that some of you have known these departed members as good friends. Special people enrich our lives in profound ways that we cannot fully understand and usually don't realize until they are gone. We cannot hold on to people forever. We can obviously live in a world without these dear friends, their laughter, and their camaraderie. But how many are there among us who would choose to live in such a world? Value your friendships. They are riches far more valuable than any other.

Finally, I am proud to have been elected to the office of Vice Commodore for the years 2001 and 2002. As Chief of Staff, my duties will differ somewhat from that of Rear Commodore and my responsibilities will broaden. However, you may be assured of my availability and interest in serving all Auxiliarists in the Seventh. I look forward to working with the District Staff and know I will find it as challenging and rewarding as my predecessor, Mary Larsen, District Commodore (e) (congratulations, Mary). Congratulations to Peter Fernandez, RCO-E (e) and Philip Merrill, RCO-W (e). We have a great EXCOM for 2001. Special congratulations to E.W. (Bill) Edgerton on his election to National Vice Commodore, Chief of Staff. My sincere thanks to Helmut Hertle, DCO (and the newly appointed National Department Chief M (Maritime Safety and Environmental Protection) for his leadership and guidance and to Bill Bradley, RCO-W, Stu Robinson, RCO-E, Helmut, Mary and Bill Edgerton for their friendship and assistance these past two years on EXCOM. We had a great time accomplishing our goals.

Please continue to have fun and boat safely...remember it's not only the boat than can be recalled by its maker.

GOALS

All successful people
have a goal.
No one can get anywhere
unless they know where
they want to go and
what they want to
be or do.
Norman Vincent Peale
(1898 - 1993)

FROM THE WEST

William "Bill" Bradley
Rear Commodore West

These past two years have been one of the greatest experiences of my life in the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Not only have I made lasting friends, but also I have been fortunate enough to work with some of the most understanding people.

The two years working with the Division Captains has also been rewarding because we each found a common cause to work together.

There were ups and downs like anything in life, but nothing ventured, nothing gained. I would hope that Philip Merrill, our new RCO-elect for the West Coast, finds the same help that was given to me by both old and new Division Captains.

I will continue to work with the new bridge as their DSO-PS and hope to do a very good job for them. What is more rewarding than retaining the membership we have and adding on to it in the coming year!

Many thanks again to the many members who have supported me in the past two years and smooth sailing to all the new officers coming in for the year 2001.

TODAY & TOMORROW

Look to this day...
In it lies all the realities
and verities of existence,
the bliss of growth,
the splendor of action,
the glory of power.
For yesterday is but
a dream and tomorrow
is only a vision.
But today, well-lived,
makes every yesterday
a dream of
happiness and every
tomorrow a vision of
hope.
A Sanskrit proverb

TOMORROW

Tomorrow is the
most important thing
in life.
It comes into us at
midnight very clean.
It's perfect when it
arrives and it puts
itself in our hands.
It hopes we've learned
something from
yesterday
John Wayne

FROM THE EAST

Stu Robinson
Rear Commodore East

This will be the last article I will write as your Rear Commodore East. For me it has been an incredible personal experience and richly rewarding with some fantastic memories. I had no idea there was so much truth in the old saying, "that time flies when you are having fun," but the past two years went by way too fast!

Now it is time to pass the baton on to the new eager members of our EXCOM.

I heartily congratulate Commodore (e) Mary Larsen, Jay Dahlgren Vice Commodore (e), Philip Merrill, Kent Shockey, and Peter Fernandez Rear Commodores (e), on their elections. I am very sincere when I offer any of them what ever help or services I can provide. As I view the caliber of the new crop of Division Captains, I foresee that the future of our District Board is in excellent hands.

In this last article, I would be committing a grave mistake if I did not start near the beginning to recognize and thank all the division captains in our Eastern Area who have distinguished themselves with some very dramatic and outstanding accomplishments. Without exception, every one of them has earned my respect and deepest gratitude for what you have done for our "Super Seventh."

Looking back as we crossed the new millennium, we, in the East responded to several of the new technological opportunities facing Auxiliary. Within our area, twelve flotillas, have purchased or made arrangements to borrow PowerPoint equipment to improve their instructional capabilities. Certainly with the rapid expansion of electronic mail we were able to disseminate important data to our members at a faster pace than ever before. It was not uncommon to receive significant information and send it out to the divisions who re-sent it out to the flotillas all in the same day. The proliferation of Auxiliary web pages has allowed members to examine manuals before they are through the printing process, and these same web sites with their hyperlinks are getting new students into our public education classes, new vessels examined and new members. In the area of "Job One," new member growth, our Eastern Area had an outstanding year. We also demonstrated an excellent increase in the basic cornerstones of VE and OP and PE.

But now it is time to look ahead to two of the many challenges facing us next year. Most of our consumers are still on a growth pattern of technological acquisition. Computers and its many peripheral markets are still increasing in sales. Assisting this surge are the dropping prices that are making these more affordable. As a result our customers are expecting (and entitled to) a more sophisticated service from us. Some of the new innovative technics initiated in the Eastern Area can be expanded. For PA which drives the size of our PE classes, and increases the effectiveness of our VSC blitzes, a digital camera and computer allows almost instantaneous transmission of electronic pictures and story lines to several newspapers.

PowerPoint does enhance the educational process by increasing retention of the subject matter. More and more material is available to us in the Power Point modality and to ignore it; is to turn away the sophisticated customer that could have become a very valuable member. This means we need to re-train instructors to use this tool and aggressively price our classes so we can purchase the equipment.

As we approach the holiday season, my wife, Nancy joins with me in wishing you all a wondrous holiday season and a healthy and happy New Year.

PERSONNEL SERVICES

RECRUITING - The AUXMIS -

Report 1 for the period ending 9-27-00 provided some interesting, as well as outstanding statistics.

By my mathematics, subtracting Disenrollments, Deaths, Transferred and New Retired from New Enrollees, the 7th District Membership has increased by 7.73% or 423 members. Congratulations to the 6 Divisions that exceeded the 7th District Growth percentage. They are:

D 11 19.47% 73 new members
D 4 16.62% 57 new members
D 5 9.06% 37 new members
D 9 9.00% 47 new members
D 7 8.15% 22 new members
D 10 8.11% 18 new members

FELLOWSHIP - For years we have talked about the fourth cornerstone "Fellowship" and wondered when it would become a Staff position. Well, we got our foot in the door when Helmut Hertle, DCO 7 appointed Esther Bradley as Assistant District Staff Officer Personnel Services (Fellowship) 7. This is a pilot program, and does not authorize SO-FEL or FSO-FEL. These titles remain the same, e.g. Fellowship Chairperson.

There are many advantages to supporting Esther in her attempt to enhance fellowship activities in the 7th District. To name a few, morale will improve, membership will increase, disenrollments will decrease, and the Pilot Program will be successful. If the pilot program is successful, it sure will improve our chances of going for the next step, and you all know what that is.

CIVIL RIGHTS - The title of the 7th District Auxiliary, Civil Rights Counselor, CGAUX/CRC has been changed to the 7th District Auxiliary, Equal Opportunity Advisor, CGAUX/EOA. Don't take this to the bank just yet but, we have been told that a new Sexual Harassment Prevention Training, Video Tape will be out in the first quarter of the new fiscal year (Oct-Dec 2000). A new Instructors Guide will accompany the new tape.

It has been a year since the Commander of the 7th District appointed me to this position, and not one case of Civil Rights Abuse has come to my attention. There have been problem areas presented but, none met the criteria as described in the Auxiliary Manual, COMDTINST M16790.1E, Chapter 7, Paragraph A. 3. a. This is good because it means we can resolve our differences at the lowest possible level.

DIVERSITY - Wouldn't you know this subject would come up? Currently we are winding down on the Awareness portion of the Diversity Process, and will be concentrating on training. Our 7th District Diversity Team is composed of a District Diversity Advisor, 3 Assistant District Diversity Advisors, 2 Division Diversity Advisors and 103 Flotilla Diversity Advisors. Don't laugh, it can happen!

It is our intention to flood the market with training material, and other information. We're off to a good start, and invite you to visit at least 3 web sites for PowerPoint presentations, and other educational material. The web sites are:

Auxiliary National
http://www.uscgaux.org

Auxiliary National Diversity
http://www.cgaux.org/diversity

7th District
http://cgaux7.org/

Mentoring - This is one of the better programs that has come down the pike in a long time (along with Diversity). Two different questionnaires prove the value of mentoring. One is the New Member Questionnaire, and the other is the Disenrollment Questionnaire. The new members praise mentoring. The disenrolled members question the lack of it. This tells us something, doesn't it.

Dwight Shingledecker, DSO-PS D7

PERSEVERANCE

To keep a lamp
burning,
we have to keep
putting oil in it.
Mother Teresa
1910 - 1997

PUBLIC EDUCATION

This message is being written after my return from the Fall Conference held in Tampa.

The conference was an extremely interesting and informative one and was extended over to Sunday morning at which time the Recreational Boating Safety Group (RBS) gave a panel presentation on the status of all Programs included in the RBS Group. This presentation was very well attended and a great deal of useful information was given to the attendees.

As of the end of September, we have given 386 multi-lesson courses aggregating 3,584 class sessions totaling 7,846 class hours. Included in our results is the figure of 113 Boating Safely Courses given. Although the Boating Safely courses given this year through September represent a 13% increase over the number of these courses given last year through September, we still have not increased our emphasis on this course enough. Again, as I have done for almost two years now, I urge all those involved with Public Education to include Boating Safely in your Course Schedules. It isn't too late to run a class of Boating Safely yet this year and I strongly suggest that multiple classes of Boating Safely be included in your Course Schedules for 2001.

The National Education Department continues to develop new and exciting teaching tools and has created two new youth courses, "Boating Fun - Adventure on the Water" (for grades K-3) and "Waypoints - A Guide to Boating Safely" (for grades 4 - 6). In addition, Boating Safely and Boating Skills and Seamanship have been reprinted and little has changed in either textbook, so instructors should feel free to "mix" the present and new printings in a class. Both textbooks have a new front cover and a new back cover that includes advertisements for our other courses. Also included in both reprinted texts are invitations to join the Auxiliary and invitations to have a Vessel Safety Check.

In Florida, there have been changes in regard to the way in which the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (Law Enforcement Division) will issue "Florida Boater Education Cards" ("Bobber Cards"). These new procedures have been disseminated via an issue of "PE HOTPOINTS," dated September 27, 2000.

Also in Florida, several new Boating Law provisions went into effect as of October 1, 2000. One of these provisions includes the requirement that anyone renting a watercraft of any type with a motor of 10 horsepower or greater must give evidence of having completed a NASBLA approved boating safety course; lacking such evidence, the Livery operator (who has been contracted with by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or a member of his staff) may give the potential renter a 20 question written test which has been developed by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The renter must pass this examination and be issued a temporary certificate before he/she may be allowed to rent the watercraft. The temporary certificate obtained by the renter is valid for one year. Of significance to the Auxiliary is the requirement that the Livery person administering the test has to have completed a NASBLA approved boating safety course. This presents a fine opportunity for us to reach out to Livery operators to offer one of our courses to their personnel. In addition, when the public becomes aware of boating safety education being a requirement for renting any type of watercraft of 10 horsepower or greater, this should also present us with the opportunity to obtain many more students for our Public Education Courses.

Robert P. Davis DSO-PE D7

KNOWLEDGE

The trouble with the world
is not that people know
too little,
but that they know so many
things that ain't so.
Mark Twain

COMMUNICATIONS

Each year the Seventh Coast Guard District conducts a Hurricane Exercise. This year it was our privilege to participate.

Monday 12, June we were notified that a simulated hurricane named William was expected to pass near the U.S. Virgin Islands and pass to the east of Puerto Rico. Our Auxiliary Command Structure placed the District Disaster Response Plan in effect and Auxiliary personnel were notified. Communications was requested to activate our Long Range Radio Network which provides real-time reports on weather conditions and damage assessment. Simulated damage reports from the Upper Caribbean were provided to the Coast Guard Crisis Action Center (CAC) in Miami. By Friday 16 June the simulated hurricane had approached and traveled up the east coast of Florida. All areas of the Seventh District had been under Condition One. The simulated hurricane then moved out to sea and the exercise was completed. This was a very well done exercise and we hope our participation will become an annual event.

Eric Glasscott and his group are commended for their work with the Auxiliary Amateur Net and Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration DOT/FHWA net.

Six different forms are required in communications. Three are Seventh District forms, three are National forms. District forms include CM-1 (the Special Purpose Radio Inspection form) five year period, CM-2 (the Watchstander Qualification form) and CM-3 (the Annual Facility Status Report form), annual report. National forms include CG-2736A (the Radio Inspection and Offer for Use form) three year period, ANSC 7029 (the Member Activity Report form) and ANSC 7030 (the Activity Report - Mission form). All of these forms are now electronically available via the Seventh District web site at the sites new address www.cgaux7.org. These forms may be printed out as blank forms or with the exception of the Radio Facility Inspection and Offer for Use Form CG-2736A, filled out and then printed out on your computer. To access these forms enter <cgaux7.org> and click on Members Information Pages, click on Auxiliary Forms and then select the Seventh District form you wish. To access the National forms, click on the link to National Forms and Online Manuals, click on Auxiliary National Forms and select the form you wish. It took a great deal of effort to make these forms electronically available and we urge their use. This is just the first step toward our ultimate goal of the transfer of information by electronic means. Comments and/or suggestions on how to make these forms more user friendly are welcome.

The computer print out of the Radio Inspection and Offer for Use Form CG-2736A will be accepted. Keep one copy for your records, send one copy to your SO-CM for review. After review the SO-CM will forward one copy to me for processing.

The 2000/2001 window for Radio Facility Inspections opened 1 October. This year inspections are required on 128 radios, 88 fixed land and 40 land mobile. Inspection form CG-2736A can be downloaded and printed out on your computer. Only one copy need be submitted. Listings of the radios needing inspections have been sent to your SO-CMs to be forwarded to your FSO-CMs. Compared to previous years, this is not a heavy inspection load and we are asking each flotilla to get their forms in as soon as possible. In situations where the radio is no longer in use, please send me a short note of explanation so we can remove the radio from the master files.

This is the last issue of the BREEZE before the holidays. May I extend to each of you best wishes for the Holiday Season and may the New Year be all you wish it to be.

John Sanders DSO-CM D7

CHANGE

The world changes so fast
that you couldn't stay
wrong all the time if you
tried - Anonymous

CAREER COUNSELOR

Just a few remarks concerning the events of last summer which pertain to Projects AIM and RAP 2000. Recapping the incoming class of 2004, the number of cadets entering (29) from Florida is the largest of any state in the country. The total number from the Seventh District is 34 total or approximately 10% of the incoming class. Now our goal is to better this number entering in the class of 2005 by finding more and better qualified ones than we have in the past. Sounds impossible, but it's not.

Consider the fact that we have 23 flotillas without a Career Counselor Staff Officer position being filled. Now take a look at your flotilla area of responsibility and just see how many high schools there are filled with students who might qualify, but will never get a chance if we all don't go and find them - they're there and ready if you present the opportunity

Advice for all new members looking for a task with a very memorable and enjoyable field. Go back and read that portion of the "New Member Manual", which basically describes what this program is all about. After you have done this, then discuss with other Career Counselor Officers who have been successful in finding these super children, and even ask to go to a high school fair with other Career Counselors. These are fun times, work, yes, but very rewarding if you have an interest in American children of the highest caliber.

Every year, most divisions have an AIM Evaluation Board to interview those candidates who are selected to appear in person to be seen by members, not necessarily from the Auxiliary, but again are interested in sending only the best to the Coast Guard Academy for AIM week to determine their futures. Some make it, some don't, but those who do are rewarded with the finest education found.

If you need to discuss the Career Counselor position further, call, FAX or e-mail me, I will respond.

Corydon Wyman DSO-CC D7

MEMBER TRAINING

A former primary function of the DSO-MT was presenting recent information from the national level to the division level and then on to the flotilla. Then, along came the Computer Chip! The information is being passed down but at a rate of speed we would not have thought possible a few years ago. Fast communication is always desirable and with the number of Auxiliary members with Internet access, the information is direct. Our Communication Services Officers see that those who do not have computers are kept fully informed; they get the word on a daily basis from the National and District web sites.

Web site addresses:
www.dirauxwest.org or www.dirauxannex.org

DIRAUX has the control and distribution of all examinations.

All open book exams are available on the Internet with the exception of MDV at this time. Specialty Exams must have a Proctor and are not available on the net.

All exams can be requested from DIRAUX West using form CG 4887 and returned to them for grading. If the Exams are taken by e-mail, the results will be returned within 24 hours. Make sure the e-mail return address is given. If necessary, you will also receive information on which sections need more study.

When a member passes the VE and IT exams, remember: Flotilla Commanders must send verification that a member has completed 5 Vessel Safety Checks for VE; for Instructor, it must be verified that the member has done 2 hours of class instruction.

Letters to members are mailed out within 2 days and certificates, medals and ribbons are mailed to the Flotilla Commanders at the end of each week.

Walter V. Dutton DSO-MT D7

VESSEL EXAMINATIONS

Greetings and Salutations. The Seventh District once again has led by example as demonstrated by excelling in every task thrown its way. We have the state of the art VE program in place and we can only look forward to advancing the cause with raging success. The necessary and vital link in Team CG is "me" and this means you and me.

Congratulations and best wishes to John W. Combs as he has just been appointed to the office of Department Chief - Vessel Examinations, National Staff. John has worked hard as Deputy in coordinating activities dealing with the multitude of initiatives evolving at the National level with Don Smutz, DC-V. I was intending to include some of his job description, but suffice to say walks on water??? I think I'll even need to make an appointment to see him. Good luck and best wishes to Don as he has done a fine job in making the mission of VE a successful one and has brought the issues and concerns of recreational boating safety into the new millennium.

For the same of the most up-to-date status and general information, some of the "happenings" in VE land are the following: new tri-fold colorful pamphlets "Boat Smart From the Start With a Free Vessel Safety Check" are available from ANSC via your MA officer. They were produced in part with a grant from the Aquatics Resources (Wallop/Breaux) Trust Fund administered by the USCG, in partnership with the National Safe Boating Campaign for us and the US Power Squadron (USPS.)

Car-Window Stickers (3x4) advocating a colorful message on "Boat Smart From the Start With A Free Vessel Safety Check" and an advertisement for http://SafetySeal.net are at ANSC and will be distributed to divisions as a one time issue.

VSC decals are about 1/4" larger and will have a colored border (probably red or orange for 2001.) The distribution plan is being devised at this time.

The 204s and other necessary forms are at ANSC and can be downloaded from the net. See your IS officer for questions about the completion.

The "Vessel Safety Check Manual" is at the printers but is available from the net (55 pages, color graphics.) It has a modern style, table of contents and an index. There is an accompanying test and key at DIRAUX West it is an open book test (90% to pass) proctored by the MT or FC. An Auxiliarist can take the VE test from the web, but it is from the old manual and is the old test. The new edition of the "Auxiliary Supplement" will be in the printed edition and is not on the web yet, so use the old manual in the meantime for AUXFAC and similar issues.

Training CD an 8-hour Power Point "VSC Initial Qualification" Training presentation will be available soon. We (John, Denis Sparks and I) used this model at the last D7 Conference and the students enjoyed it. Knowing John and Doug, this CD is full of whistles and bells and gongs and sirens etc. It is very "user friendly" too. Call us if you want a copy.

There is a new edition of "FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS AND SAFETY TIPS FOR RECREATIONAL BOATERS' available through ANSC.

Thanks to efforts of the DCO, VCO and RCOs, the re-engineering efforts of the VE program were successfully initiated and incorporated into our ADLs (activities of daily living.) The USPS is also up to speed with their training and train the trainer program. Feedback sounds most successful they have their materials, designated uniform and are completing VSCs along with us as a result of this focus. The Partnership thing is even working without sibling rivalry.

Web sites are crucial to keeping informed. Make sure you have a web watcher to keep you current. The Seventh District is on the cutting edge with our fine web sites. If you want to be the early bird in your flotilla, log on.

http://cgaux7.org

http://CGAUX.org

http://SAFETYSEAL.net

http://USPS.org

AUXFAC There is a change in the process for AUXFAC. Do not send them to Gary anymore. In an effort to streamline this process and get the approval back to you sooner, just send them directly to DIRAUX. Mark "AUXFAC" on the envelope so DIRAUX knows to "open me first." The process is to have the boat inspected and the paperwork properly completed. The FSO-VE and the FC will review it and sign their initials above the examiner's name in Section IV and date it. Then it may go to DIRAUX. There will be a mechanism for certain folks to have "read only" privileges for IS, so as to see if the vessel is approved in AUXMIS.

Vessel Examiner "golf-style" shirts are approved officially as an optional uniform for the VEs.

Inflatable PFDs are approved for patrol. See the Operations web site for details. Please make sure you are up to speed on how to check them.

The good ole new thing called "Rental Vendor" is still a program but could use come CPR. Please encourage your VEs to partner with the MVs and keep this most important mission alive. There are some new issues on the horizon surrounding the rental vendors and they will need our support and assistance.

SUBS, affectionately known as the Sport and Utility Boating Safety Program has made an emphasis in the VE program to target this group. They include PWCs, Jon boats, kayaks, canoes and any small boat in that category. There is a fairly high accident and fatality rate associated with these folks and we invite our VEs to visit their associations and clubs to bring the message. They don't usually think of themselves as recreational boaters, but they are.

"First Job" is a pilot project in D7. It is a take off on the National Commodore's initiative of Job One for resources to complete our mission. VE tasks are coming down the pike big time. As an incentive to the flotilla, they get a qualified person that can help our goals and be productive. As an incentive to the Auxiliarist, they get their first ribbon for their uniform. Tom Steidley, ADSO-PS (E) is heading up this initiative and has done a marvelous job. Also we wish to extend an invitation to all ex-VEs who have been inactive for one reason or another. We can use your time and talent. See your MT about re-quals.

"Recruiting at the Ramp" could be resurrected a bit too. John Snyder from Clearwater 11-1, takes this initiative seriously. See Focus of VE. His project is entitled "Regular Ramp Recruiting." Thanks John for your take on this.

Last, but not least, we have two other players on our Team. Coastie and Panda. Don't forget to have these exciting characters get into the act. This is networking at its finest. How best to appeal to our children and deliver the message of safe recreational boating at an early age.

Speaking about networking, RBS is another D7 pilot project based on the National Recreational Boating Safety initiative. Here we have a shared focus, strength and skill to target shared customers and shared issues. RBS comprises the VCO, DSOs from PA, PE, MV and VE, the NSBW Chair, the AUXSLOs from FL, GA, SC, PR and VI and the Coast Guard RBS Specialist at DIRAUX. Together we are a strong team supporting this unique group.

I want to take this opportunity to publicly thank my staff. As you can see, VE tasks have grown and all due to the ever growing importance to heighten the public's awareness for recreational boating safety. Gary Davis ADSO-VE has been responsible for the AUXFAC process. Gene Brooks handled the Decal distribution. Denis Sparks and Gene provided instruction for the re-engineering VSC program with John. And especially a big thanks to Mary and Helmut, without whose proactive stance and innovative vision have put D7 and our VE program on the map.

I especially want to thank each and every one of you who have contributed in any way to advance our mission.

Lenore J. Combs DSO-VE D7

WHAT ABOUT THOSE THREE R'S?

You've heard of the three R's: Red, Right, Returning Reading, 'Riting and 'Rithmatic. Well Flotilla 11-1 and John Snyder in particupar has added another one: Regular Ramp Recruiting.

Of the twenty new members that Flotilla 11-1, Clearwater recruited this year, almost half of them came from the ramps. John Snyder takes the exchange of information during a VSC very seriously. He tells them about the joys of membership in the USCG Auxiliary while he's examining their boat. When the owner/operator is sufficiently interested, John invites them to a Flotilla meeting as well as our boating safety classes. His close rate, once he gets them to a meeting, is in excess of 90%.

Here's a quote from the biography of a new member, Bob Zeitler: "Nine years ago we bought a house on Indian Rocks Beach and a VIP 23' tunnel hull boat. Actually, it was through my boat that I was recruited into the Auxiliary."

"I was often at Belleair Boat Ramp and John Snyder would see me and try to get me to let him do a VSC on my boat. I was in too much of a hurry and used to run from him. After playing this "cat and mouse" game for a while, we became friends. and, the rest is history."

John has over 400 VSCs under his belt for 2000 and is lamenting that his recruiting activity has cut down on ths VSC work. Once he gets the members interested, John teaches the New Member Course, takes them through the exam, performs the new member interview and personally escorts them to the various Coast Guard Exchanges in our "local" area to get them into the proper uniforms. He even takes them down to the embroidery store so they can get their working blue shirts done up with their names and Auxiliary tags.

Once the member is sworn in, John joins up with our FSO-VE, Denis Sparks, and they jointly tout the joys of the VE program as First Job. It works! Since these members were recruited from the ramps, they certainly know the value of being a VE.

Lenore J. Combs DSO-VE D7

MARINE VISITOR

It's a pleasure to report the MDV program in the 7th District is alive and growing. It continues to lead the Auxiliary in visit growth and the number of MARINE VISITORS out on a daily basis servicing their accounts.

Here is the data YTD 9/30/00:

MDVs 6140 MVs 272.

We have a 33% gain over 1999 in MDVs and a 13% growth in MVs.

District 7 MVs are ranked number 1 in the 16 Auxiliary Districts and we produce 31% of all the MDVs done.

I don't have access to all the existing data of our Auxiliary programs, but I expect our performance is second to none!

We have approximately 91 days left to hit our 2000 goal of 10,000 MDVs. This breaks down to every one of our MVs doing 5 MDVs each of the last three months of 2000. Attainable? I would say "yes" based on past performance.

To some this program may appear as a very exclusive group of dedicated individuals, commonly acknowledged as the Ambassadors of the Auxiliary. It isn't exclusive! If you are interested in joining the most effective group in the USCGAUX, please talk to your nearest MV, FC or DCP and sign up.

As the DSO-MV District 7, all you MVs out there have made my job an easy one again this year by your outstanding performance. I wish to thank you all for your time, talent and dedication in getting the job done.

"Judge us by what we do, not by what we say we're going to do."

A. Bruce Magyar, DSO-MV D7

INFORMATION SERVICES

We have received approval from the DCO to conduct an IS "pilot project" here in the 7th District to test electronic submission of reports.

Flotillas 9-10 and 11-1 are the two flotillas selected to participate in the project and the planned start date is January 1, 2001. I wanted to tell you about it so when you hear about it, you'll know what is happening in this area.

I assure you that electronic submission WILL NOT do away with paper reports, so those members without computers do not have anything to worry about. The three reports that will be used to begin this project are ANSC 7030, ANSC 7029, and D7 IS001 for MDVs. When the pilot project is complete and has been evaluated, we plan to make it available to the rest of the district.

I encourage everyone with Internet access to register in the National E-mail Directory. E-mail addresses in the National E-mail Directory as of June 2000, were merged into AUXMIS. We would like to add as many e-mail addresses to AUXMIS as possible. Your FSO-IS or SO-IS can add it to AUXMIS for you. When you change your e-mail address, be sure to make the change in the National Directory and make sure you also give it to your FSO-IS or SO-IS so the correction can be made in your member profile in AUXMIS. The only place the e-mail addresses in AUXMIS can be printed at the present time is on the annual letter members receive each year.

Your FSO-IS and SO-IS are the links between you and AUXMIS. When you have a question or need information, go to your IS officer first. Some members are still getting on the phone and calling DIRAUX with questions that can be answered by IS officers. When that happens, you may get an answer, but in order for someone in the Director's office to look up the answer they have to stop what they are doing. That something could be enrolling new members, transferring members, or disenrolling members. We hear complaints that it takes too long for paperwork to come back from DIRAUX and most of the time the reason is that someone has interrupted their flow of work. Please get as many answers as you can at your local level.

All Change of Member Information forms (ANSC 7028) go to your FSO-IS. Either the FSO-IS or SO-IS will make the corrections in AUXMIS. Do NOT send the information to DIRAUX, because they do not make those changes. When ANSC 7028 forms are sent to DIRAUX, it slows down the process and delays getting the information into AUXMIS. When DIRAUX receives those forms, they send them to the SO-IS to be entered. You can see how the process is delayed when the forms are not sent through the correct route.

Nancy Day DSO-IS D7

AVIATION

Counterparts

One week after the Fall District Conference this past September, the Auxiliary Aviation Coordinator (AAC) for Air Station Miami, Jack Novita, suffered a heart attack. I am happy to say that Jack is getting better and on the road to a full recovery.

Even though Jack was suddenly out of commission, his job within Air Ops never missed a beat. His assistant, Tom Jankowski, prepared the new month's flight schedule and others stepped up to fill the void left by Jack's sudden absence.

Air Crews are continuously trained in teamwork. Aviators call it Crew Resource Management. Pilots and observers learn the importance of working well together and sharing the work under a variety of complex situations. In fact, the District Seven's Aviation Organization is a model of well-designed functionality.

The Aviation program of District 7 is set up around its' Air Stations. Each area has its' own air staff. Clearwater, Miami and Savannah are fully staffed with an AAC and Assistants plus an Auxiliary Liaison Officer (AUXLO.) Bill Nesbit is the AAC for Air Station Savannah, and Marvin Dailey is the AAC for Air Station Clearwater. They are Jack's counterparts. The AAC is not only a primary point of contact for operations but also for information on the Aviation Program.

The Counterpart concept of the Auxiliary is most helpful. When a problem develops in one area, a staff member not only has the resources of his working partners within the Air Station's chain of command, but he also can contact his counterpart at the other Air Stations. Brainstorming with others on your team has a synergistic effect that is helpful to all.

District Conferences are an excellent time to meet with counterparts. At the last conference, the Air Staff met to discuss policy and to set up their schedule for 2001. The AACs set the Aviation Workshops for Miami (January 19,20 and 21), Savannah (February 9, 10 and 11) and for Clearwater (March 16, 17 and 18.)

These Aviation Workshops are a requirement of the program. They are training sessions conducted at the air stations. This year the workshops will emphasize mission training including seminars on Air Search and Rescue and MSO/MEP air Patrol procedures.

There is a common expression in the military, "Ten 'atta boys equals one screw up." In other words, you can do ten things right, but do one thing wrong, and it seems to wipe out all the good stuff and then some. Workshops and training are the only things that can eliminate those negatives.

Vince Magnotta DSO-AV D7

PUBLIC AFFAIRS

"Coastie's" Mission Expands in D7

"COASTIE", the official mascot of the Coast Guard Auxiliary was officially launched in District 7 during the 1999 Spring Conference and Workshop. In January, the District 7 Board, under DCO Helmut Hertle, voted to purchase this robotic cartoon Coast Guard tug for District-wide use, to promote public education and the safe boating message. Conference attendees were all smiles when "COASTIE" proceeded down the center isle playing the Coast Guard anthem, search light and rotating beacon flashing, siren and horn sounding, eyelids blinking and flags flying.

In a relatively short time "COASTIE" has become in demand at; schools, hospitals, parks and recreation centers, libraries, parades, civic celebrations, boat shows, basically anywhere people gather, including official Coast Guard and Auxiliary functions. Originally the tool was thought to be most effective in instructing boating safety to children K through 3. "COASTIE" has proven to be able to present the safety message to younger children much more effectively than any other method. Simple rhyming safety phrases and interactive exchanges illustrate and demonstrate water safety in less time and with better retention.

"COASTIE" under the custodianship of Kathryn Bock ADSO-SP, and Walter Bock PDCO D7 has proven to provide unpredicted benefits to Team Coast Guard. Wherever "COASTIE" appears he acts as an ambassador of good will and conveys the D7 PA motto, "We care." Thank you letters like this "Thank you for your interest in the children at Shriners Hospital. Your visit was such an enjoyable experience for the children. Your special thoughtfulness brightened their day and you helped to make their hospitalization more pleasant." Other letters of appreciation from libraries, schools, children's recreation and other civic children's groups are beginning to accumulate.

Adults love "COASTIE" too, wherever he appears children take their parents in tow to meet him. He answers questions, even from adults, while putting smiles on the faces of children of all ages.

Not all is well with "COASTIE", as more and more Auxiliarists are trained in operating and presentations, the demand for personal appearances has become even more than our little super hero can handle. Plans have been concluded to acquire two more "COASTIE'S" with their own travel trailers. One will be assigned to Puerto Rico.

Flotillas who want to utilize "COASTIE" should contact Kathryn and Walter Bock. Arrangements will be made to provide training and a meeting place for the transfer of "COASTIE'S" trailer from one ball hitch to another.

Nick Nicholson DSO-PA D7

YOUNG

Anyone who stops learning
is old,
whether at twenty or
eighty.
Anyone who keeps learning
stays young.
The greatest thing in life
is to keep your mind young.
Henry Ford

EDUCATION

If a person empties
their purse into their
head,
no one can take it
away

AIDS TO NAVIGATION

The 2000 Spring Training Workshop at Fort Myers was a great success. A tremendous amount of effort was obvious in the way it was conducted and carried out. The best thing about District workshops is that every department has good things happen that makes the process a little more expedient and there is always someone that wants to talk about your department. Also a lot of ideas that are food for thought.

For the instructors, upon the completion of the Private Aids to Navigation Verification Seminars, the list of qualified students is e-mailed to DIRAUX

West. The names will be immediately recorded and certificates made out and forwarded to the individual's flotilla. How is that for simplicity?

The NATIONAL AIDS TO NAVIGATION AND CHART UPDATING STUDY GUIDE (1995) has been updated and is on line. Our inquiries have not gone unnoticed. It can be copied by the single page or all 93 pages. Those of you that have the original hard back of the 1995 version, keep it for reference. Over 700 were distributed throughout the 7th District.

Listed below are some reminders for easier and expedient process on reported items:

Candidates for chart updates on form 77-5 intended for NOAA's use, do not include speed limit or manatee information signs. This information is occasionally listed on local charts issued by businesses, city or state organizations.

Concerning Paton Verifications, only ten aids in the same channel may be listed on one report. CG5474(AUX) - they must be from the same channel. When they are forwarded to the respective Coast Guard Office, they are filed by channels. Only one discrepancy to a report. No exceptions.

When requested to verify federal aids by the local CG Station, please state the project was requested by the Coast Guard in the comment section.

When verifying lights, the light cannot be reported as "WATCHING PROPERLY" if the light sequence was not verified after dark. List what time the light was verified on the report.

As the Aid to Navigation Department continues to report the status of the thousands of Aids to Navigation in District 7, this is our portion to contribute to the overall safety of the waterways for the magnitude of boaters that increase each year.

Lahoma J. Fallis DSO-AN D7

COMMUNICATION SERVICES

Another year is just about past and the district is still on the leading edge in communication services activities. If you still haven't checked out the District website (cgaux7.org), take a look. Better yet, take a look and then use the site. You will be glad you did.

Our district site is your site and is meeting your needs. If it isn't, let us know. And if it is, let the Webmaster know too. In seeking to be more user friendly, one of our goals is that nothing should be more than three clicks away. And some may have noticed that some sections of the site are in Spanish.

For those of you just getting started, you will find the new District Communication Services Handbook on-line. This should answer most of your questions; if not, correspond with us by e-mail. We sincerely try to answer all questions just as soon as possible.

One of the new and exciting features that is being worked on in the IS/CS field, is the electronic submission of various IS reports. The individual will be able to directly submit selected IS missions directly to the division inputer as the Seventh takes a big step in saving trees, stamps and time. You can read more about this in the Information Services column in this issue.

Right ahead of us looms 2001. May we suggest that you undertake in your division what one division has done. For the past several years on a Saturday in January the DCP has required all FCs, VFCs, IS and CS staff officers to attend a session from around 0900 to 1430. During this time all are introduced to both systems, to the changes that are in effect and how the IS and CS officers can assist in carrying out their elected officers responsibilities. Good idea. If any additional information is desired, drop me a note via e-mail. It's been a fantastic year and 2001 will be even better. Bravo Zulu to all for all their work during 2000.

Allen Brown, Jr. ADSO-IS/CS
abrown5217@aol.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LATEST AUXOPS

Roy L. Larsen 12-6
David F. Boyle 14-7
Robert G. Fountain 08-7
Lawrence L. Feissner 09-5
Jacquelyn L. Feissner 09-5
William H. Russell 09-8
Moran Coxon 09-8
Paul D. Denning 10-1
Richard A. Luettich 10-2
James W. Leehouts 13-4
Robert H. Mathewes 12-8
Robert W. Phelps 05-6
Robert Funk 14-7
Eric Krieger 10-11
Lyman Conner 07-3
David Gardner 07-3
Don A. Myers 10-10
Gary E. Davis Sr. 02-4
Dennis G. Horvath 13-3
Roy Wiik 09-8
Ronald F. Cuneo 05-5
Christie M. Foster 09-8
Juan M. Medina 01-10
William E. Calderon 01-10
Victoria L. Aponte 01-10

DIVISION 15 RECEIVES SHALLOW WATER JON BOAT

Shallow watercraft is essential for patrols and in Search and Rescue missions of Division 15. Charles Palioca, Immediate Past Division Captain was instrumental in obtaining the Jon boat from Station Yankeetown. The outboard motor has been upgraded to a jet drive.

Nearly nine months ago Mr. Palioca spoke to Group Captain Walter Miller about transferring this Coast Guard property from Station Yankeetown to the division. It has been transferred and Cecil Spencer, Division Captain has been in charge of the needed repairs in order to make this vessel ready for the Auxiliary. Some of the repairs have been a new transom, welding and outfitting to satisfy Coast Guard Auxiliary Operation requirements.

Major contributors to getting the Jon boat ready for the Auxiliary missions were Charles Palioca, Immediate Past Division Captain, Cecil Spencer, Division Captain 15, Kenneth Holsten, Past Division Captain, Larry Berman, Vice Flotilla Commander 15-5 and Charles Morton, Staff Officer - Operations. Mr. Morton has done most of the prep work to get the vessel ready for service.

At a recent division meeting, Captain Walter Miller placed the decal and operational wreath on the vessel, declaring the Jon boat to be operational. The vessel will be used throughout Division 15. Division 15's area of responsibility covers Hernando Beach, north beyond Yankeetown and inland to include Gainesville and Ocala. Some minor work still needs to be done to this vessel, and then the first assignment will be to Ocala. After that it will be assigned as needed throughout the 15th Division.

The Jon boat, together with personal watercraft and a possible airboat (special purpose facility in the planning stages) will greatly improve shallow water capability on our Nature Coast and throughout all of Division 15's area of operation.

Patrick Frakes SO-PA 15 D7

PUBLICATIONS

Thanks to all who keep me on their mailing list. Your publications are truly interesting and I do read each one of them.

Remember to put your newsletter for 2000 in a bound folder, small binder - whatever you can as long as it is bound, and send it to me for the Flotilla and Division Publication Awards.

A Flotilla should have at least six issues for the year and a Division four. Mail to the address on the front inside cover.

Norma Karpiscak DSO-PB D7

A POEM ON DIVERSITY

My Friends
I am an Auxiliarist, joined a long time ago,
There are meetings to attend, pledges to take,
Hours of service to spend, jobs to do,
Satisfaction is great, and there are friends to make.
My friends are people, just like you,
Women join to learn how to safely boat,
Or maybe to be with their husband too,
Who want to make a difference, not through life to just float.
The others are men, of course,
Yes, they too can be my friend,
They may have taken a boating course,
Then joined to reach a goal that has no end.
We all have the opportunity to,
Examine boats, teach, lead, or a follower be,
You may make it your second career too,
Be active on the water, or maybe take to the sea.
It doesn't matter where you came from,
Ohio, New York, Texas, Iowa, Florida, or
If you are from the country or city or even have a chum,
In Chicago, Denver, San Francisco or Bangor.
My friends come from all different walks of life,
Dentists, doctors, teachers, blue and white collar workers too,
Service retirees, plumbers, boat mechanics, a husband, a wife, do.
Will you be my friend? Will you join the team?
There is much you can do, join the group, shine your beam,
You can make the difference to the Auxiliary in the end.
Written by,

Mary Kennedy VCP 15 D7

BANQUET BULLETS

The banquet at the Fall Conference was a time to honor Helmut Hertle, District Commodore and outgoing members of the EXCOM; Victoria Aponte and Gene Kahn for their work with OPSAIL 2000, and for installing the incoming elected officers.

Preceding awards to Victoria Aponte and Gene Kahn for their efforts, a PowerPoint presentation covering OPSAIL in San Juan and Miami gave the audience a memorable overview of this event. The combination of music and pictures pointed a vivid picture of OPSAIL and was produced by Peter Concepcion and Victoria Aponte. Ms. Aponte received the Meritorious Service Award and Gene Kahn received the Auxiliary Commendation Award.

Presentation of awards to Victoria Aponte and Gene Kahn.

Stuart Robinson, RCO-E, Bill Bradley, RCO-W and Jay Dahlgren, RCO-N were presented with Auxiliary Commendation Awards for their years of service as Rear Commodores, Mary Larsen VCO was presented with the Meritorious Service Award. These awards were presented by Helmut Hertle as the citations were read by CDR Kurt Nancarrow, Director of Auxiliary.

For his years of service not only to the members of the Seventh District, but to the entire Auxiliary Helmut Hertle was presented with the Distinguished Service Award by RADM Thad Allen, District Commander.

Members of the incoming EXCOM were sworn in by RADM Allen. They are Commodore Mary Larsen, Jay Dahlgren, Vice Commodore, Peter Fernandez, Rear Commodore-East, Philip Merrill, Rear Commodore-West and Kent Shockey, Rear Commodore- North. Each was installed with their new shoulder boards and insignia of office. Spouses and outgoing officers assisted with the installation, in the case of the incoming DCO, assistance was provided by the outgoing DCO and by Bolling Douglas, the first female DCO for the Seventh District.New Bridge for 2001.

Remarks from RADM Allen followed the installation of officers. In these, he pledged to provide whatever support was needed for the Auxiliary and praised Helmut for his dedication and service over the past two years.

As a mark of personal appreciation, - members of the EXCOM presented Helmut Hertle with a framed print of the Coast Guard Training Ship, Eagle. The identity of the gift had been kept a closely guarded secret and Helmut was suitably pleased and surprised. In addition, CDR Nancarrow presented him with a framed shoulder patch of the Eagle from his days at the Academy. In appreciation for her patience and understanding, the EXCOM presented Carol Hertle with a crystal bowl.

REPORT FROM THE FALL TRAINING & BUSINESS CONFERENCE

GENERAL MEETING

The General meeting began with the sound of bagpipes as CWO Dunham played for the members. He was followed by a Color Guard from Group St. Petersburg who presented the colors.

Elections were the first major item of business.. Mary Larsen was elected District Commodore, Jay Dahlgren was elected Vice Commodore, Kent Shockey was elected Rear Commodore, North, Peter Fernandez was elected Rear Commodore, East and Philip Merrill was elected Rear Commodore, West. The introduction of the incoming EXCOM brought resounding applause and a standing ovation.

Awards for recognition were distributed. One of these was particularly significant, the Meritorious Service Award to Robert and Martha Mitchell for eighteen years of work with the district awards program.

Another significant award was that to Darwin Coy, named the "biological father" of Coastie, and to Kathryn and Walter Bock for their work with the entire program. Coastie was present front and center for these awards.

Actions of the Seventh District Board, Inc. included adoption of a change in Annex A covering Awards which is to take effect retroactively to cover 2000.

Concluding remarks from the outgoing EXCOM and the District Commodore brought the meeting to an end.

SHUTTLE LAUNCH:

Auxiliary in the Spotlight

The shuttle launch on September 7, which carried Coast Guard pilot LCDR Daniel Burbank into space aboard STS 106, also provided a unique opportunity for members of Division 4. The presence of Secretary of Transportation, Rodney E. Slater, RADM Thad Allen, CDR James Rendon, CAPT Michael Rosecrans, DCO Helmut Hertle, CWO3 Jesse Owens, and other dignitaries meant that an elevated level of briefing was required. The Auxiliary was given a chance to join in briefings in launch operations. This gave an opportunity for members of Division 4, led by Ed Callahan (VCP 4 elect) to explain the extent to which the Auxiliary assists during each shuttle launch.

In his briefing, Ed reminded dignitaries that the Auxiliary is an organization made up of volunteers. He gave an overview of the area of operation for his division, explaining that they are under orders from Group Mayport, serving directly under Station Ponce and Station Canaveral. The normal operations for his division include the traditional ones, but they are also called into service for launches when they provide vessels for security zones. Ed explained that as a rule eight or ten vessels are on duty and that they patrol two geographic areas.

In order to give an idea of the time dedicated by the Auxiliary for these missions, Ed explained that Auxiliary vessels secure an area four hours prior to scheduled launch time and that they stay on scene until released by Range Central. During this time a vessel can be deployed, if need be, for a SAR mission. Given the number of "holds" that can be put on a launch, all of us can appreciate the length of time these missions in support of a launch can require.

Ed explained during his briefing, that about a year ago, the operational facilities were augmented by PWCs. The division refers to these as the "Division Ski Team," and the team consists of two identical PWCs owned by George Kacmarik (VCP4). ADM Allen had an opportunity to "check out" the PWC element and the operational facility which works with them later in the day.

One of the very significant aspects of the overall briefing is that the Auxiliary was given equal time with RADM Allen, NASA personnel, and active and Reserve Coast Guard personnel, a real example of a team effort. Continuing the team effort, an "All Hands" gathering followed the briefing. During this gathering two Auxiliarists, Luis Roman and Ed Callahan were honored as two of the eleven members of Team Coast Guard who received "Find the Good and Praise It" awards. These were awarded by Secretary of Transportation, Rodney E. Slater.

A barbecue following the All Hands gathering offered an opportunity for fellowship for all those present and a chance to show off the PWCs and Operational Facility. Throughout, the Auxiliary was featured and recognized for the long hours of effort dedicated to shuttle launch missions.

Double no triple our
troubles and we'd
still be better off than
any other people on
earth.
Ronald Reagan