One of
our main missions in the Auxiliary is Public Education. We continue
to offer a well-balanced program to our public. The response to our
classes has been consistently positive and accolades are extended to
our instructors not only from our leadership but from the class
members, themselves.
As a
result of the hard work of our assistants, the “flavor” of our
classes has been supportive, light-hearted, and informative. This
was noted over and over again by members of our classes and they
often commented about the rapport among our Auxiliary members and
how they all seemed to have fun doing their work. This is precisely
the kind of image our flotilla wants to convey to the public. We
work very hard but we do have fun.
Our crew and coxswain
training—in the classroom and on the water—provide excellent role
models for those just entering our ranks or for those members who
may not be able to meet weekly. Mentors are the one necessary
contact that all new Auxiliarists need in order to feel comfortable
learning the ropes. Many of you, as longtime flotilla members, have
the skills needed to be mentors. Please let Denis or me know if you
can see yourself assisting our new members if only for a short time.
The Public Affairs
officer has done an excellent job sharing our flotilla’s missions
with the public. The media coverage over the last two years has been
exemplary and we thank Al for his diligent work in contacting the
local and statewide media. The upcoming Venice Shark’s Tooth
Festival gives all of us a chance to meet the public in a positive
way. Please take an hour or two from your schedules to volunteer at
the Auxiliary booth on Saturday and Sunday, April 9 and 10.
Walt
Jennings organized and led 8 boats on a fellowship trip to T’ween
Waters Resort on Captiva Island. Twenty-two members enjoyed the
weekend overnight, especially all the delicious food on the way down
at the Fishery, the Bubble Room on Captiva, and the stop home on
Cabbage Key. Walt prepared a great happy hour that allowed us to
rendezvous and enjoy still more fellowship. Walt is planning another
trip soon with the hopes of getting more people involved.
I’d like to encourage
those of you who haven’t achieved your AUXOP to get motivated and
take the required courses. These six courses will make you a
well-rounded auxiliarist, having achieved what the Coast Guard calls
their “PhD Program.”
Please
plan to attend the Division 8 picnic at Station Cortez on Saturday,
April 23. The station goes “all out” for these get togethers and
it’s a good time to not only enjoy good food and fellowship but to
meet the Coasties at the station.
I’d like to thank our
northern visitors—Dale and Pat Myers, Diana and Joseph Floyd, and
Tom Norton for sharing their expertise with us over the past three
months. Not only did they train with us but they provided an
invaluable service to the Public Education Program.
Judi Bidwick
April,
2005 Page
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