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Flotilla 86 Venice, FL             www.cgauxvenice.org           7th District

Judi Bidwick, Commander            Juan Hernandez PhD, Vice-Commander
June - July,2008                                        Judi Bidwick, Editor                                       Judi Bidwick, Photographer
 

Flotilla Commander's Message

From the Commander 

As summer ends, we need to focus on upcoming flotilla changes and Auxiliary events. 

A team of members cleared out the front room of our Training Center and moved storage containers, furniture, and miscellaneous items to the building adjacent to us.  This was done to ready the room for DIRAUX West’s move from the USCG building at the moorings.  This move should take place around the middle of September.

Closets have been built for storage in the other building for OPs, MT, PA, and VE.  A total renovation is taking place to clean up, paint, and lay new flooring.   A dumpster was provided by the Commander’s Office in Miami.  In addition, we were provided with assorted building supplies for renovation.  We will have the training center annex open prior to the next flotilla meeting so members can view the changes.

We are still negotiating with Sarasota County about the use of the Casey Key moorings building and dock.   Some positive outcomes are anticipated.

 NACON will have passed by the time you receive this newsletter.  It was in Orlando this year.

The District 7 Conference will be in Jacksonville, September 18-21.  The ICS 210 course will be given at that session.  This course will not be online so you need to take it in the classroom.

Please take time to record your hours on your 7029 form.  These are the hours that are not recorded for activities such as patrols, vessel exams, public affairs activities, etc.  Reflected on your 7029 are any classes taken, meetings attended, driving to and from activities as well as paperwork, checking Auxiliary email, phone calls related to flotilla business, writing your articles or reports. 

 Don’t forget to send in your $50 dues for the coming year.  We need all dues in to Janet Heijens by August 30. 

NOTE: Elections are scheduled for 07 October. If you wish to be a candidate for elective office, submit a letter of intent to John Susek, Screening Committee. The prerequisites are: Be an Auxiliary member for a minimum of twelve months before nomination for office and have successfully completed one of the following; Auxmin Specialty Course, Administrative Procedures Course, Flotilla Elected Leader Course.

 A special thanks to those who assisted with the Training Center cleanup and renovation of the “annex:”  Harry Bruno, Paul Corcoran, Joe Floyd, JD Harrison, Juan Hernandez, Bob High, Lou Magyar, Mike Marmion, Jim Sleichert, and Patrick Wheeler.

Judi Bidwick
Flotilla Commander



Judi Bidwick, FC




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Flotilla
Staff Officers


               CM - Juan Hernandez
               CS -  Denis Keyes
               FN -  Janet Heijens
               IS   - Harry Bruno
               MA - Richard Markwitz
               MS - Roman Gzyl 
               MT -  Lou Magyar
               OP - Jim Sleichert
               PA - Al Bidwick
               PB - Judi Bidwick
               PE - Judi Bidwick
               PS - John Kandes
               PV - Jerry Mitchell
               SR - Ruthanne Bruno 

         
         

                 General Meeting:
              First Tuesday - 1930
                 Training Center

              On The Water Training
              Every Thursday - 0830
               Marine Max, Venice

 

 
                                                                                 June-July,2008
Dr. Juan Hernandez, FSO-OP


 

Vice Commander
Juan Hernandez Ph D

 

As the end of summer approaches, it is time to start planning for increased levels of Flotilla activities across the board. This means that all members will soon be busy supporting operations, helping meet current challenges, such the relocation of facilities, and developing new service opportunities.  Our success in these missions depends, to a great extend, on the level of self-leadership of every member of our Flotilla.

Our Commandant, ADM Thad Allen, challenged all Coast Guard units, including the Auxiliary, to develop and enhance our leadership skills in the campaign “Spotlight on Leadership.” The focus of this campaign is on our core values of “Honor, Respect and Devotion to Duty” and the “Leadership Competencies”-- the knowledge, skills and expertise the Coast Guard expects of its members and leaders.

I want to share with you the description of the competencies related to “Self-Leadership”.  Please review them and reflect how they apply to you and your role in supporting the activities of our Flotilla. Let’s continue to improve each of them as we initiate the new season.

1. Accountability and Responsibility: Each Auxiliarist should be sensitive to the impact of his or her behavior on others and the whole organization. Appointed and elected leaders need to take ownership for our area of responsibility as outlined in their job descriptions and the Auxiliary Manual, and effectively organize and manage our assigned programs.

2. Followership: Each Auxiliarist should be a follower of his or her leader in the “chain of leadership” or “parallel staffing”. This encompasses initiative, commitment, responsibility, accountability, critical thinking and effective communications. Followers have the responsibility to work with their leaders to reconcile any issues or problems to achieve mission success.

3. Self Awareness and Learning: Successful leaders continue to learn, assess self, and seek feedback to confirm strength and identify areas of improvement. They also guide and challenge peers and their staff to ask questions and be involved.  With the continual expansion of Auxiliary programs, it is critical for all members to continue seek new information and adapt their behavior and techniques in response to changes and new challenges.

4. Aligning Values: Successful leaders align personal values with organizational values. Any difference that exists needs to be reconciled through the proper channels.

5. Health and Well-Being: Attention to safety and well-being is critical especially during operational activities. Successful leaders continue to assess their environment and effectively manage fatigue, stress, and emotions of all their members.

6. Personal Conduct: Effective leaders are self-motivated, results-oriented and accountable for their performance. We should recognize our own strengths and weaknesses. As leaders, we should use position and personal powers appropriately to achieve overall mission success, rather than personal gain.

7. Technical Proficiency: Each Auxiliarist should demonstrate technical and functional proficiency in programs involved. This includes competency in program policies, technical proficiencies, as well as completing AUXDATA paperwork needed to properly document program execution.

Juan C. Hernandez,
DVC-TI
Vice Flotilla Commander

 

 
                                                                                June-July,2008



 

Finance
Janet Heijens, FSO-FN

 

Please be aware that 2009 membership dues are due on or before August 31, 2008. Resulting from a discussion and vote by the Flotilla members at the June meeting, an increase in our annual dues to $50.00 has been passed. This was in response to the rising costs of our operations, and for the financial well being of the Flotilla.

Kindly send your check in the amount of $50.00  to Janet E. Heijens, FSN-FO at 525 S. Shore Drive, Osprey, FL 34229.

Janet E. Heijens
FSO-FN

 
                                                                                June-July,2008
Jim Sleichert, FSO-VE


 

Operations
Jim Sleichert, FSO-OP

 

FROM THE OPERATIONS DESK:

Patrols for the month of July were below normal expectations.  We only had two safety patrols competed and sent one PWC, with Patrick Wheeler, to the off-shore boat races in Sarasota.  Two orders were cancelled in POMS due to weather and one patrol was cancelled because there were not any orders in POMS for that date.  Two other patrol dates were pulled because the coxswain had to leave town and help FEMA in the flood-stricken Midwest.  That means that only three orders were activated during the month of July.

However, August is looking fairly good.  There are ten safety patrol dates that are available and I have been able to fill seven with facilities.  Also, all of the seven dates have watchstanders assigned. 

I would like to thank all the coxswain, crew and watchstanders for all the help they have given.  Like so many flotillas we have a lot of members out of town and this makes it hard to obtain crew and watchstanders for safety patrols dates.  Make sure you keep a copy of the schedule I send out or look at the flotilla calendar for safety patrols.  Call the coxswain and ask to be crew or come as a trainee.  There is usually room onboard and the coxswain will be happy to have the company.

I want to remind coxswains that they should check in POMS at least three days before their patrol to make sure there are orders issued.  Coxswains should do this anyway because they need the order number and should notify the radio watchstander at least 24hrs in advance with starting time and crew.  It is not possible to get orders on the day of your patrol.  Also, POMS is sometimes down on weekends and then the coxswain is calling me to find out his order number.  If for any reason orders are not issued I can have orders issued with a 3 or 4 day notice. 

For all our new members remember to give the coxswain a call and ask to go out on patrol.  You must have taken the boating safety course and have an ID number. 

In addition, DIRAUX WEST will be moving into the front room of the Training Center, permanently.  This will take place during the summer.  The lease with the county expires at the end of September but it will be in the best interest of all to get the room ready prior to that time.

I hope to have a QE here sometime in late October or early November to qualify some crew and coxswains.  As soon as the Division gets more gas money we will try and start OWT again.  The new gas budget starts on 01Oct08.  This will leave us very little time for training.  Coxswains please try to take trainees out on patrol and help them with line handling and knots.  Also sign off any tasks that they complete in their book. 

The following information is important for all coxswains.

Both ALCOAST 042/07 and ALCOAST 106/07 required a completion date Of 31MAR08 for all Coast Guard personnel including the Auxiliary. There was concern over the possible limited access for Auxiliary members when the course was first made available. ALAUX 002/07 was issued giving no completion dates but strongly encouraging single resource leaders to take ICS-210 when the opportunity presented.  Realizing that the 31MAR08 deadline has come and gone for ICS-210, CG-54212 in cooperation with the Coast Guard's NIMS Program Coordinator and the Office of Incident Management & Preparedness (CG-5331) were able to extend the deadline for course completion until 31MAR09. The new deadline for completion for all applicable Auxiliarists is 31MAR09. Successful completion must be entered into AUXDATA which will be programmed to recognize the 31MAR09 deadline. Operational members who are not compliant with coursework requirements by the deadline will be placed in "REYR" and will not be issued patrol orders.

Well that is about all I can think of at this time.  Please help out where and whenever you can.  You may think that you do not do a lot, but whatever you do is a lot to me.  Well, until I see you on the water, or hopefully rehabbing the training center and outer building, have a great summer.

 

Jim Sleichert
FSO/OP     

 
                                                                                June-July,2008

 

Just a reminder with the hot weather upon us heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke can effect everyone on the water so keep alert.  Other boaters can be suffering from the symptoms and need help.

 

Heat Exhaustion Instruction Sheet

 

During hot, humid weather, the body's internal temperature can rise and can result in heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If not quickly treated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, which requires immediate emergency medical care and can be fatal.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Heat Exhaustion:

severe thirst                                                   muscle weakness

nausea, sometimes vomiting                      fast, shallow breathing

irritability                                                        headache

increased sweating                                      cool, clammy skin

elevation of body temperature to less than 104 Fahrenheit (40 Celsius)

 

Heat Stroke:

severe, throbbing headache                        weakness, dizziness, or confusion

difficulty breathing                                         decreased responsiveness or loss of consciousness

may not be sweating                                     flushed, hot, dry skin

elevation of body temperature to 104 Fahrenheit (40 Celsius) or higher

What To Do:

If the victim has a temperature of 104 Fahrenheit (40 Celsius) or more, or shows any symptoms of heatstroke, seek emergency medical care (911) immediately. In cases of heat exhaustion and while awaiting help for a victim with possible heatstroke:

  1. Bring the victim indoors or into the shade immediately.
  2. Undress the victim
  3. Have the victim lie down; elevate feet slightly.
  4. If the victim is alert, place in cool (not cold) bathwater temp water or sponge-bathe the victim repeatedly. If outside, spray the victim with mist from a garden hose.
  5. If the victim is alert, give frequent sips of cool, clear fluids (clear juices or sports drinks are best).
  6. If the victim is vomiting, turn his or her body to the side to prevent choking.
  7. Monitor the victim's temperature.

 

Think Prevention! 

Always drink plenty of fluids (Water or Sports Drinks not carbonated or alcoholic drinks) before and during any activity in hot, sunny weather - even if you aren't thirsty. Come indoors immediately whenever you feel overheated.

Note:  For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult a doctor

Arthur Sperling, EMT
USCG AUX FL86  
USCG Health and Safety CG-11

 

 
                                                                                June-July,2008 

Clarification of Coast Guard ICS-210 Training for Auxiliary

ALAUX released 24 July 2008

       1. ICS-210 Initial Incident Commander is a classroom course designed for Single
Resource Leader Type 5/Type 4 Incident Commanders. It is a four-hour course based on
the ICS-300 course but condensed and focused on initial incident assessment, initial
incident management (includes assuming command, organization, and execution), and development and use of ICS forms. Completion of this course by SURLs is a DHS
mandate not a CG Headquarters.

      2. As per ALAUX 002/07 this course or the full ICS-300 course is required for Auxiliary coxswains, pilots (Aircraft Commander, First Pilot and Co-Pilot), any
member in the Trident Program or any other team/task force leader determined by
a Coast Guard unit Commander to have a need.

      3. Both ALCOAST 042/07 and ALCOAST 106/07 required a completion date of
31MAR08 for all Coast Guard personnel including the Auxiliary. There was concern
over the possible limited access for Auxiliary members when the course was first made available. ALAUX 002/07 was issued giving no completion dates but strongly
encouraging single resource leaders to take ICS-210 when the opportunity presented.  Realizing that the 31MAR08 deadline has come and gone for ICS-210, CG-54212 in cooperation with the Coast Guard's NIMS Program Coordinator and the Office of Incident Management & Preparedness (CG-5331) were able to extend the deadline for course completion until 31MAR09.

      4. The new deadline for completion for all applicable Auxiliarists is 31MAR09.
Successful completion must be entered into AUXDATA which will be programmed to
recognize the 31MAR09 deadline. Operational members who are not compliant with coursework requirements by the deadline will be placed in "REYR " and will not be issued patrol orders.

      5.  Please direct any questions to your DIRAUX or BMC Russell Woodill of
CG-54212 via email.

 

 
                                                                                June-July,2008

 

MINUTES
June 3, 2008
U.S.C.G. AUXILIARY, FLOTILLA 86

Commander Judi Bidwick called the meeting to order at 1930 with 19 members and prospective new member, Casey Ross. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.

FC Report, Judi Bidwick:
* A Division meeting will be held at Fl 86 on Saturday for FC and VFCs.
* There will be no meeting in July.
*The Newsletter will combine June/July; and Aug/Sept.
* National Safe Boating Week was successful with events at Marine Max and Venice
  boat ramp.
* Our Flotilla was represented by the Bidwicks at the Keep Sarasota Beautiful
   Awards Banquet 5/21.
* Fellowship picnic on May 10 was a success--thanks to those who assisted.
* Join other members on the December 10 day cruise.
* Hurricane season is 6/1 to 11/1. Please update your information.
* If anyone does not intend to recertify please let the FC know.
* Preliminary plans are being made to move our radio station and Diraux West. Our
  outer building will need to be cleaned and emptied. A work crew will be needed.
 

MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING:
A motion was made and seconded to accept the May 6, 2008 Minutes as they appear in the Fore and Aft. Motions were made and all voted in favor.

FINANCE REPORT:
Janet Heijens presented the Finance Report. Motion made, seconded and all voted in favor to approve, subject to audit.

STAFF REPORTS:
FSO-CM Garland Russ reminded members to renew their facility stations.
FSO-IS: Harry Bruno asked VEs to complete the location, time and number of POB on the 7012.
FSO-MT: J.D. Harrison stated that OWT will be suspended during July due to fuel crunch. We will be doing some first aid training this month.
FSO-OP: Jim Sleichert announced the CG is low on fuel. Patrols should be kept to two hour engine running time. We will try to do a night mission. JD will check on dates. We will have a table at Wal-Mart on Jacaranda for boat safety on June 14. He will need a few people to assist. Patrick Wheeler will bring his PWC, and John Kandes will distribute kayak literature from 10-2.
FELLOWSHIP-John Harrison announced a fellowship picnic will be held Saturday, May 10th at 4:30 p.m. at the Nokomis location. All are invited. A sign up sheet will be circulated.
NOTE: Jim Sleichert told members that a weed wacker and five gallons of gas are missing from our shed. Anyone who may have borrowed the weed wacker please return. Juan Hernandez will issue an email to members asking if anyone knows of this.
FSO-PS: Paul will be working with Charlotte Clewiston on her member application. MAINTENANCE/FELLOWSHIP: J.D. Harrison will be setting up work crew to move our radio room and clean up the training center buildings for the upcoming Diraux West move. He also announced he will plan a July cookout

June 3, 2008 AWARDS:
Marine Safety Training Ribbon: Henry Reynolds
Aux Performance Award: Ops: Janet Heijens
Aux Performance Award: Walt Jennings, Garland Russ
Operation/Marine Safety: Garland Russ
Operation Excellence: Garland Russ
TCT: Garland Russ

Old Business:
Judi Bidwick, FC, spoke about plans for Diraux West moving to the training center. There has been no word as yet from the county regarding our radio room at Nokomis and what the county plans to do. Plans must be made should we have to move More information will come once she has notice. Jim Sleichert suggested we circulate a sheet to form a work crew. Judi Bidwick stated that the CG will provide us with a dumpster. Lou Magyar will work on drawing up plans.

New Business:
Janet Heijens brought up the subject of the need to increase our dues. Members discussed the options and made suggestions. The outcome was a motion made by Lou Magyar that our dues be increased to $50 per year. Harry Bruno Seconded the motion. The motion was carried with 17 affirmative; 1 negative and 1 abstention. The FC will arrange to alert everyone of the increase.

Walter Jennings announced that there will be a need for boats for the 4th of July fireworks and also for the Suncoast Gran Prix on July 6th. Jim Sleichert has more information for anyone who is interested. There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 2030.

Respectfully submitted,
Ruth Bruno
Secretary

        
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