March, 2006

Vice Commander's Message Judi Bidwick, VFC   This is a time of change for many organizations—the Auxiliary is no exception.  Homeland Security has brought much to light in the past months with the major catastrophes and consequently we are requiring more of our members who may be called to duty.  The Incident Command System is our latest challenge and if Flotilla 8-6 continues with its past dedication, we will accomplish all that is asked of us in the next six months.  Juan Hernandez will spearhead a tutorial for those desiring assistance in computer online testing.  This class will aid members who prefer to read information and test on paper.  Transferal will be made to the computer in an appropriate manner consistent with proper testing expectations.  Our flotilla has been called on for pre and post hurricane patrols, searches, and volunteers for both FEMA and the Coast Guard efforts.  We have always been ready to go at a moments notice.  This will continue to be our commitment.  Each officer will set goals for this year and will strive to achieve above the efforts accomplished last year.    One of our best efforts comes from our teamwork.  Whether it’s On-The-Water Training, Vessel Examinations, Public Education, or Fellowship, we all work as a team.  The structure of our Tuesday training sessions, our newly adopted Training on Patrols (TOPs), the sharing of Member Training classroom instruction, the new vistas for our Vessel Examiners, or the many instructors and support persons who make our Public Education the very best—all of these efforts depend on teamwork.  The latest efforts to assist DIRAUX WEST in tearing up and installing new carpet shows that our flotilla is willing to join in hard work for the good of the whole.  Thanks to the following: Harry & Ruth Bruno        Tom Fox                                Jim Lair                  Bob Chapman               John Harrison                      Jean & Stan Ozimek Paul Corcoran               Bob High                             Jim & Monika Sleichert Roland Couture             Jerry Hopfengardner          Ed & Pat Stebner Nick Verbus  Our newest effort in Public Education involves On-The-Water-Boating for those who have passed the Boating Skills and Seamanship course.  So far, our two groups have been very successful and we received overwhelmingly positive evaluations.  We already have groups planned for the end of March and April.  The two boats involved in this venture so far have been Partner-Ship and Sea Angel. Judi Bidwick VFC 8-6

March, 2006

Operations Harry Bruno, FSO-IS NOTES FROM FSO-IS 1.      There is a new National website.  It is possible your old bookmarks may need to be reset.  Simply go to www.cgaux.org and reset them.  Also forms on the site are now combined into one folder.  Take a look! 2.      NOTE:  Auxdata has been experiencing problems.  Please be patient while OCS works out the kinks on the upgrade.  Anyone having a problem with their  Password please contact me at harryb86@comcast.net.  REMEMBER to try to use your password at least once a month so you do not get locked out.       3.    REMEMBER TO SUBMIT YOUR 7029.  THEY ARE IMPORTANT TO THE AUXILIARY!!!!      IMPORTANT MESSAGE RE:  QUALIFICATION COURSES  All members who wish to continue to qualify for direct operations must complete the following courses by the deadline dates:  ICS 100 and ICS 200              Must be completed by June 2006  ICS 700 and ICS 800              Must be completed by September 2006  Courses can be found online at our Venice website under FSO-MS, click on ICS course or on the USCG National website click Members, Training.   Time for ALL ICS study and courses gets reported on a 7029 only.  If you have not completed these courses by the years' end you will not be eligible for direct operation activities.  Also anyone  that studies and takes the Good Mate or MS/EP exams, that time gets reported on a 7030 with a code of 70U. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REMINDER:  Please activate your email account on the National website if you have not already done so.  The address is:- www.cgaux.org  Click on Members,   click on e-directory, Create an account as a first time user and follow the instructions.  (Your log on will be your ID number and then create a password as instructed.  Once you access the site, click on Flotilla 86 (under common searches). Find your name and email.  Be sure it is correct.  Double click on it and check your qualification information.  If you have any questions call or email me at harryb86@comcast.net  Harry Bruno, FSO-IS

 

March, 2006

Operations Message   Team, Ed Stebner and I want to take this opportunity to wish you and yours a healthy 2006 and thank you for your commitment to the MT Program.  I enjoyed the three years I served as FSO/MT and want to express my appreciation to all of you for your active support and camaraderie throughout my term.  I am sure that you will extend the same level of cooperation to the next Member Training Officer as he assumes this role in 2006 and that you will enjoy the contributions he will make to our MT program in the future.  Finally, I want to acknowledge the excellent contributions made by Ed Stebner in managing the member training courses and Judi and Al Bidwick, Bob High, Bud Beeman, Denis Keyes, Lou Magyar, Walt Jennings, John Dexter, Charlie Dulaney, Jim Sleichert and Mike Lechky as the most active coxswains/facility owners in supporting OWT.  Special thanks are also due to all crew members that actively participate in OWT and Jim Lair for all the work he does to keep our station in top shape.  Juan C. Hernandez, FSO/MT

 

March, 2006

Operations Juan Hernandez, FSO-OP Operations Report  The start of a new year is a good time to establish goals that will challenge us to maintain and enhance operational readiness.  This undertaking is an on-going process and that requires “raising the bar” every year.  The Operations goals for 2006 provide a framework for striving for excellence while developing teamwork and fellowship.  We encourage and welcome your active participation in achieving these goals.   Operations goals for 2006: 1.      Engage all members in team efforts to maintain and enhance the level operational readiness of crew members, facilities, procedures and resources. 2.       Launch the Operational Excellence Award program during the second quarter of 2006. This program allows members currently certified in the Boat Crew Program to earn an Award of Operational Excellence.  It also provides a medium for developing and offering advanced training programs for coxswains and crew members. 3.      Develop and implement the “TOPS” (Training on Patrols) Program. This program complements and supplements Member Training activities by utilizing facilities scheduled for Safety Patrol for training missions; as appropriate and without interfering with patrol duties.  Examples of the types of activities that TOPS will support include: ACM missions, one-on-one training, area familiarization tours and SAR exercises.  It also provides training opportunities for members that cannot train during week days. 4.      Offer at least two Operations Workshops during the year.  The first workshop has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 28, 2006. 5.      Run two OPEX Weekends (Spring & Fall) for SAR and night missions and fellowship activities.  It is expected that these events will include joint training with the Coast Guard and/or other Flotillas. 6.      Offer seminars for the Incident Command System (ICS) courses (ICS 100, 200, 700 and 800).  The first seminar will be offered in April, 2006.   Members that participate in direct operations must take these courses and pass the corresponding tests to be eligible to participate in CG exercises, drills or response events.  I welcome your feedback and look forward to working with you throughout the year.

March, 2006

Operations Message    I would like to thank all of the members that participated in the Operations Program this year for their support dedication.  As of this writing the flotilla had a very successful year in Operations with the following statistics.    112 Safety patrols for 530 hours 11 Regatta patrols for 114 hours 11 Marine Safety patrols for 23 hours 78 CG OPs Support missions for 882 hours  This gives the flotilla 212 missions for 1,549 hours.   We also had 5 SAR cases resulting in 4 persons assisted and over $55,000 in property assisted.  Bravo Zulu to all.  Lou Magyar

March, 2006

Public Affairs Al Bidwick, FSO-PA   February was a great month for Flotilla 8-6.  Joel Foster, a journalist with the Venice Gondolier, spent the entire morning with us while we conducted training at the Moorings on February 7.  He observed classroom instruction about the use of the GPS in conducting Search and Rescue missions, and later came aboard Partner-Ship to observe first-hand how searches are conducted.  Unfortunately, we were only able to stay in the Gulf a short time.  When rough seas rocked our boat and water sprayed over the cockpit, we decided to conduct towing exercises in the intracoastal waterway.  Upon our return from the Gulf, Bud Beeman on Encore took Partnership in tow and demonstrated how we train to provide assistance to boaters in distress.  Photos of our training and a description of Joel’s experiences, which appeared a week later in the Gondolier, presented the Auxiliary in a most positive light.   Flotilla 8-6 recently conducted its first On-the-Water Training for graduates of the Boating Skills and Seamanship Class.  The class, a first in Coast Guard Division 8, represents a dramatic departure from previous Coast Guard policy, which only permitted Auxiliary members to ride on Coast Guard boats.  Though observational only, the on-water experience is designed so auxiliary members can demonstrate various safe boating skills and techniques that are covered in the four-week course and familiarize students with the local boating environment.  The use of an Auxiliary Operational Vessel as its base guarantees that all necessary safety equipment is at hand, and those in charge of the vessel are competent.  Judi Bidwick adapted the program to suit the needs of students in the Venice area.  In order to individualize instruction and provide immediate feedback, she limited the class to four members.  Following a preliminary two-hour introductory class which outlined the specific learning objectives, participants met at the marina and boarded Partner-Ship, a 26 foot Sea Ray.   Four hours later, after observing numerous routine and emergency demonstrations, the group arrived safely at the home dock.  “This is a great program,” remarked one participant.  “There is no substitute for seeing in practice what we learned in class.”  Judi and I collaborated in developing an article which describes the class in greater detail and includes photos of participants and sent it to the Division 8 publication, “Pieces of Eight.”  You can read the article on line at the following address: http://www.div8aux.org/newsletters.htm  Al Bidwick FSO-PA

March, 2006

Vessel Examiner Henry Reynolds, FSO-VE   The VEs are off to an excellent start this year. As of 20 February we have conducted 92 VSC. Out of the 92 examinations 63 have passed. If it were not for Patrick Wheeler, with 66 VSCs, we would be far behind our goal of 500 for the year.  The Boat Ramp at the Train Station continues to be our main contact with the boating public. There is now a three man team that mans this site on Saturdays, Patrick Wheeler, Fred Shaneyfelt and Tom Norton. The team is divided into two groups. One VE makes the initial contact with the boaters as they arrive. This VE passes on basic Boater Safety and AWW information and answers any questions that the boater my have concerning Boating Safety. This VE also determines if they want a Vessel Examination. If they do the boater is passed on to one the other VEs for the VSC. The team approach has help to make the VSC process more efficient. It also enables the distribution of additional Boating Safety information to more boaters.  The team approach has worked so well at the Train Station that the VSC activity will be expanded to one Sunday per month, that is providing a team can be formed. This brings me to the subject of the number of active VEs in the Flotilla. The “20 January Unit Summary” indicated that there are 13 VEs in the Flotilla. The Flotilla needs to certify more Vessel Examiners. All members are encouraged to become VE certified. The VE activity is an excellent way to interact with the Boating Public. If you are interested in becoming a Vessel Examiner please contact me.  Current and Future Activities:  February  20    Country Club Estates VSC Day March 4           MarineMax VSC Day 20-26 May       National Safe Boating Week Henry S. Reynolds FSO-VE

March, 2006

FROM THE VE`S CORNER!        Well, this will be my last newsletter as FSO/VE.  I will be turning over the VE program to Henry Reynolds, for the 2006 boating season.   It is time for me to move on and discover new and exciting goals to accomplish.       Henry will be an excellent FSO, and will bring new and exciting ideas to the vessel exam program.  For the people that do not know Henry, he has transferred in from the Sarasota flotilla.  He seems to be highly qualified and anxious to start.      I would like to thank everyone who has helped make the vessel exam program such a success for our flotilla.  I especially would like to thank PATRICK WHEELER, JUDI BIDWICK, ED STEBNER, for going beyond status quo and always being the flotilla top producers.  I hope that they will assist the new VE in every way they can.        To all new members, please consider becoming a vessel examiner.  This is a very rewarding position and is the back bone of the boating safety program.  It is the most important activity of the auxiliary.  If you are interested or have any questions feel free to call Henry and obtain all the information and requirements.       Well, that is about it from the VE`s corner; lets make 2006 the best year we ever had. JAMES P. SLEICHERT FSO/VE

March, 2006

COXSWAIN:  MEAL MONEY            As we approach the end of the year, I would like to reinforce the message Lou Magyar recently sent by E Mail concerning meal money while on Patrol or OWT.             Facility owners, while under Coast Guard reimbursable orders are paid for fuel, oil, ice, maintenance, and meals. Although these payments do not fully cover the cost of operating the vessel, the Facility Owner has offered the vessel for use in agreement with Coast Guard policy.            The meal money represents the dollar amount the US Government assigns to its Active Duty personnel and Coast Guard Auxiliary personal while under reimbursable orders. The Coxswain is obligated to pass these payments onto the crew or as an alternative provide a suitable meal.             Some coxswains provide the meal and some do not. It is important that the crew and coxswain communicate about this before the patrol starts. Personally, I do not provide meals because I’m not always sure what some people can eat and some cannot. I do keep a record of everyone on my boat and distribute the year’s meal money at Christmas time.             There are many crew who decide not to accept the meal money. When this happens, it is up to the coxswain to decide how it should be allocated. I hope this explains the Flotilla policy and if there are any questions, please let either Judi or me know.            As we begin a new year,  I would like to thanks Judi and the Staff for all their hard work and effort during this past year and I welcome the New Staff Officers for 2006. We’re still looking for someone to put our newsletter together so if you would like to help in these areas, please see either Judi or me.  Denis Keyes, FC

March, 2006

MINUTES U.S.C.G. AUXILIARY, FLOTILLA 8-6 FEBRUARY 7, 2006 I. Commander Keyes called the meeting to order at 1930 with 39 members and 5 guests in attendance. The meeting was begun with the Pledge of Allegiance and a reading by the Chaplain. GUESTS: Gary and Shirley Niles from Michigan; Gary Glintenkamp from NY and Sandra and Dan Hahn from New Hampshire. II. FC REPORT: Denis Keyes asked for volunteers to help with the Newsletter. He announced that Commissioner Patterson will attend our next meeting. A program of speakers is planned, along with her presentation. Beginning in April, MT issues will be presented briefly at each of our Flotilla meetings beginning with a review of the Auxiliary Manual. Denis also announced that in the future, we will create the Member Roster, rather than having it printed. He circulated a rough draft and asked each member to review for corrections. Plans for the Change of Watch are in the works. He is considering Marina Jack's in Sarasota which would give us the opportunity to plan a two day event. Details will follow. Denis asked Al Bidwick and Lou Magyar to speak. Al Bidwick announced that Judi was doing very well after her surgery. Lou Magyar told the membership of his son in Iraq and the need the soldiers have for specific personal toiletry items. A motion was made and seconded that our Flotilla membership provide, package and ship these items to Iraq. Ruth Bruno will coordinate. III. FINANCE: The Finance Report and Budget for 2006 were presented and accepted by membership. IV. STAFF OFFICER REPORTS FSO-AV: Al Bidwick had nothing to report at this time. FSO-PA: Al Bidwick stated we have had an excellent response to the new OWT/PE program. BS&S registration is Thursday and we have received good coverage in the newspapers. He submitted an article on VE checks which he is hoping will appear in the newspapers soon. FSO/CS: Bill Cabana announced he will be doing web work again. He suggested that Flotilla staff officers have a back up assistant. FSO/CM: Walt Jennings announced that we have received approval from Division to use boat names rather than call signs ONLY when three or more boats are involved and ONLY during Member Training. At all other times we are to us a 5 digit call sign beginning with 86----. FSO-IS: Harry Bruno asked the members to activate their email on the National website, edirectory. He also noted that a new section entitled Value Added Training is worth looking at. FSO/MS: Fred Shaneyfelt told the members of the website to complete online tests Good Mate and ICS series. He stated that members are now required to complete the ICS tests. He distributed information on this subject. Copy of the notification of passing these tests should be given to Denis Keyes, Commander. Fred will be distributing Waterway Watch materials at the VE days at Marine Max and will report the statistics to Harry Bruno, FSO-IS. FSO/MT: Guenther Hennig reported on the OWT and MT schedules. He also announced that he will be resigning from the MT position in February due to his extremely full schedule of teaching. He thanked those who have helped him, especially Bob High. MENTOR PROGRAM: Jerry Hopfengardner said the Mentor program is going well. FSO/PS: Paul Corcoran said he interviewed one new member and that a few more will be coming. MAINTENANCE: Bob High stated that the carpeting job will begin Saturday. He asked for volunteers to help. He also mentioned that in relation to MT twelve people have requested various courses and these courses will be offered throughout the year. FSO/VE: Henry Reynolds said the VE day at Marine Max was rained out but is rescheduled for March 4th. VE checks will also be done at Country Club Estates on February 20th. Henry spoke about the 6 pack Captains program and UPV inspection. Henry works at the Regional Exam Center where each division has one person who does fingerprinting. He said more volunteers are needed. Fred Shaneyfelt and Art Sperling volunteered to assist. V. AWARDS: Patrol Specialist: Ron Roth, Henry Reynolds Seaman Specialist: Bob Mumpher NAV B: Roland Couture Facilities: Katy, Union Jack Fingerprint Exam: Lou Magyar, Guenther Hennig Flotilla Merit Award: Bob Mumpher Instructor Cert: Roland Couture Certificate of Appreciation: Bill Cabana (crew hrs 2nd place); Bud Beeman (cxswn 3rd pl); Lou Magyar (instructor 2nd pl); Patrick Wheeler (crew hrs 3rd pl); Staff Appointments: Bill Cabana-Communication Services; Walt Jennings-Communications; Lou Magyar-Finance. Sustained Aux. Service Award: Bud Beeman, (2nd awd); Harry Bruno (3rd); Bill Cabana(4th); Jim Sleichert(4th); Patrick Wheeler (6th); Lou Magyar (6th); Bob High (9th). Division Certificate of Appreciation: Bill Cabana NEW MEMBER: Roland Couture was sworn in as a new member. There being no further New or Old business the meeting was adjourned at 2030. Respectfully submitted, Ruthanne Bruno, FSO/SR