Katrina and Rita
have changed lives forever. So much devastation, lost lives, and
property destruction have left people without homes, businesses,
hospitals, and service agencies in their home town. Even Coast Guard
Stations and Auxiliary meeting places have been destroyed.
Some of our
members have opted to volunteer for FEMA in order to give assistance
in any form they can. Walt Jennings was deployed to Nevada; the
Shaneyfelts are undergoing training before being deployed; other
members have volunteered for USCG Auxiliary service where
needed-some have been called, some are waiting.
You can give assistance at home by sending whatever monetary amount
you care to donate. This can be done in many forms but the U.S.
Coast Guard, Inc. is asking for donations for those Auxiliarists and
Coast Guard Regulars who lost their homes and need help. OPERATION
LIFE RING is on the National Website as well as the other websites.
Those who have received money already are appreciative and have
extended their thanks nationally. It's been a lifesaver to many of
our fellow members already.
Our first Public Education classes this fall are underway-Boating
Seamanship and Sailing. Take part by volunteering and assisting
during these classes.
Creative, real life experiences are being generated by our Member
Training On-The-Water corps of instructors. Teaching you, as a crew
member or coxswain, to think "on your feet" is the aim of this
training. Each Tuesday, a different scenario will be designed to tax
your thinking processes and boating skills. Most of this is
happening in the Gulf. Heart attack, man overboard, inexperienced
boaters, injuries on board are just a few of the experiences we've
had to deal with. Juan Hernandez, Guenther Hennig and Lou Magyar are
bringing new life to our OWT this fall. Come and join us!
Judi Bidwick, Vice Commander
October
2005
