THE SCUTTLEBUTT

U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY FLOTILLA 12-8, 7TH DISTRICT CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA VOL 28, NO 8, AUGUST 2002 FLOTILLA WEB SITE: http://www.uscgauxcharleston.org
FLOTILLA COMMANDER VICE COMMANDER COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS FINANCE MATERIALS MEMBER TRAINING OPERATIONS PUBLIC EDUCATION PUBLICATIONS SECRETARY/RECORDS
Dean B. Creed . . . . 843-971-1541 Brett J. Grooms . . . . . . . . 553-216 Tom Beauchemin . . . . . . 873-0363 Richard Daniel . . . . . . . . 556-8453 rbdaniel1829@aol.com dbcreed@netzero.net brettg101@comcast.net two_short@charleston.net Brett J. Grooms . . . . . . . 553-2168 Joey Bokern . . . . . . . . . . 884-8616 Robert Lovinger . . . . . . . 762-6136 John Sikes . . . . . . . . . . . . 569-0994 jsikes@dycon.com brettg101@comcast.net joeybokern@aol.com rlovinger@earthlink.net

AIDS TO NAVIGATION CAREER COUNSELOR COMMUNICATIONS

727-0307 Dan Cowley . . . . . . . . . . 795-7053 Dean Creed . . . . . . . . . . . 971-1541 Tom Schmidt . . . . . . . . . 886-0500 Mike Ethridge methridge@carlockcopeland.com dbcreed@netzero.net cowleyrd@knology.net beach-cat@worldnet.att.net

INFORMATION SYSTEMS

MARINE SAFETY LIAISON MARINE VISITOR

W. Brent Hepburn . . . . . 884-6625 Dom Zito . . . . . . . . . . . . 795-1012 Bob Orenstein . . . . . . . . . 821-0233 David Beaudrot . . . . . . . 552-2632 dzito@knology.net bhepburn@worldnet.att.net orenstn@dycon.com davebea@quik.com Marguerite Bishop . . . . . 766-1741 Barbara J. Yeatman . . . . 795-4149 Dick Clarke . . . . . . . . . . 849-9216 Dick Clarke . . . . . . . . . . 849-9216 doberdoody@netzero.net mar-jer-bishop@msn.com clarker@citadel.edu clarkerr@netzero.net

PERSONNEL SERVICES PUBLIC AFFAIRS

VESSEL EXAMINATION
IMMEDIATE PAST FC

FROM THE COMMANDER

Dean Creed, FC 12-8 Hello all. It was good to see so many folks at the July membership meeting. It was a pleasure to welcome three guests, Daniel Johnson, John Johnson and Nelson Ohl, all of whom expressed a desire to begin the New Member class soon (and FSO-PS Bob Orenstein has already arranged it!). It was a particular pleasure to swear in former Coast Guardsman Charles Taylor as the newest member of our Flotilla. Welcome aboard, Charlie! Id like to ask all members to help recruit students for our September Boating Skills & Seamanship (BS&S) public education program. We are offering the full 13-lesson program on Tuesday evenings, 1900-2100, from 10 September through 3 December. Whenever the opportunity presents

itself, please let folks know what a great program this is, get their name & number, and give it to FSO-PE Richard Daniel. Richard will take care of the rest. If you havent visited the Auxiliary on the Internet lately, please take a few moments to do so. There is a wealth of information available on the National Auxiliary web site at www.cgaux.org (Members Deck) and on the Seventh District Auxiliarys site at http://cgaux7.org (Member Pages). Youll be amazed at what you can learn about boating and the Auxiliary online, how easy it is to download publications and manuals, take examinations, and a wide variety of other things. While youre there, please add - or update - your listing in the National E-mail directory. Go to the Email Services link from the second address listed above. It is very important that this list is complete and accurate. I hope to see you at the 14 August membership meeting. Our guest

speaker will be Charlie Sneed, Executive Director of the South Carol i n a Maritime Heritage Foundation. Hell be speaking about his efforts on building the Spirit of South Carolina, a 140' schooner similar to a circa 1870s vessel built in Charleston. The vessel is being constructed from plans found in the Smithsonian Institution, and will be built from recycled live oak, long leaf yellow pine, and other woods native to the area at the time. It will be primarily an educational vessel for South Carolina. Learn more at www.scmaritime.org . Finally, thanks to the efforts of FSOVE Dave Beaudrot and Jane Orenstein, our September 11th membership meeting will be at the Old Country Buffet , at the intersection of Aviation and Rivers avenues. The meeting will begin at 1830, and dinner will follow at 1930. Mark your calendar and Ill see you there!

Information contained in this newsletter is for official US Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary use only under the Privacy Act of 1974. The Auxiliary is guided by the current equal opportunity policies of the Commandant of the Coast Guard. No person shall be subject to discrimination in the Auxiliary or its programs because of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.

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August 2002
about any body of water. This is easy to do when we are examining a boat under a certain length to quickly skip over any item that on its surface does not apply. As with the boater with the children not wearing their PFDs, an educational exchange is the operative here. Informing the public is what we are out there to do.

AIDS TO NAVIGATION
Dan Cowley, FSO-AN I am still planning on offering PATON training patrols in August and November, provided I can get my boat repaired or find a suitable OPFAC someone is willing to offer? So, as I have said several times before, if you are a Coxswain and are not a qualified Aids Verifier, I would like to ask you to seriously consider strengthening your credentials afloat with this training before the end of this year. If you are Crew qualified, I would suggest you consider adding this credential to your Auxiliary rsum. The Coast Guard and the boating public need our help in this area too much for us not to give it a higher priority than it has been in recent years for our Flotilla. Please join us in this effort to help take some of the load off of our brothers and sisters on the gold side, trying to keep those lights on out there!

MATERIALS
Tom Beauchemin, FSO-MA The past few months have seen a rise in orders for crew supplies,many for PFDs. With September rapidly approaching and classes on the agenda, please be sure to place your orders in a timely manner for class supplies and mailing materials. A High Five to Dean Creed for his patience and determination with most of us who lack completion of paper work. After his many speeches I tried it and he is right it is easy. Thank you, Dean!

PUBLIC EDUCATION
Richard Daniel, FSO-PE Public Education is offering a Boating Skills and Seamanship (BS&S) Course starting 10 September. This is a strong 13-chapter course that will benefit our membership in a huge way. Each member can refresh what he or she uses to know about boating. All members are encouraged to sign up for this refresher course. This course will be offered to the general public and be held at the Coast Guard Base. Class will start at 7:PM and last until 9:PM. Cost to the public will be $35.00. Our membership can attend this class for a greatly reduced price. Why not take the opportunity to sign up now? The ACN course wed talked about beginning in September has been put off in favor of our volunteer instructors valuable time. This is another course in which auxiliarists can participate at no cost. Its a great course for Coxswains and Coxswain wannabes.

VESSEL EXAMINATIONS
Dave Beaudrot, FSO-VE Bob Mathewes and I were patrolling on the Ashley River and noticed a boat with three adults and five children, of which not a single child was wearing a PFD. We stopped the operator and informed him that all children under the age of twelve needed to be wearing their PFD. The operator of the vessel was very pleased that we took the time to let him know the rule about the jackets. The children donned their jackets and off they went. I came away with a good feeling having had an extremely rewarding educational exchange with the boater. Kindness and not assertiveness is okay! All boats 26 feet and over operating in navigable waters of the U.S. must post one or more pollution placards in a prominent place visible to all passengers and crew. The placard must be a minimum of 4 x 9 inches. The trash placard laws apply to everyone; not just those boats over 26 feet and over. We should remind all boaters during our Vessel Safety Check (VSC) that it is against the law to dump trash in just

THE COMMANDER SEZ

If you are at all interested in becoming an Aids to Navigation (ATON) Verifier, heres an opportunity. Mark Ratliff and Larry Moran are holding a class from 0900-1300 on Saturday 03AUG 2002 at CG Base Charleston. This class will teach you much of what you have to know. Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions. Thanks for your interest! Dean

FINANCE
Joey Bokern, FSO-FN Bills for flotilla dues ($30.00) will be mailed out the first week of August and are due by the end of September to avoid disenrollment.

Do not wait; the time will never be just right. Start where you stand, and work with whatever tools you may have at your command, and better tools will be found as you go along.
Napoleon Hill

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receive your Form 7029 monthly! Again, please dont hesitate in giving me a call at 971-1541 or send an email about how to record information and submit forms. Its honestly not very tough to complete any of the forms, and Ill make it as easy as possible for you. Remember: if youre not submitting your forms, youre cheating the Coast Guard out of money!

August 2002

INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Dean Creed, FSO-IS Thanks to those of you who have been so conscientious about completing your paperwork and submitting it. This is, after all, the only way in which both the Auxiliary and the Coast Guard get credit for your efforts. On a sad note, Id estimate theyre getting credit for less than 20% of the time Flotilla 12-8 members are serving. We can change that, and quite easily! As FSO-IS, its my duty to help you complete and submit the proper forms to document the many and varied activities you perform in support of the Coast Guards mission. Please dont hesitate to contact me at any time. Questions such as What time should I record? Who records what? On what form should I record it Where do I get the forms? and Who should I send the forms to? are most welcome. Simply give me a call and Ill walk you through any part of the process, step-by-step. Very briefly: What: You should record most all time spent on Auxiliary business, including travel and preparation time. How: The majority of most members time is recorded on Form 7029 Member Activity Log and Form 7030 Mission Hour Report. I can give you copies of these forms, or you can download them from http://www.uscgaux.org/~forms/form s.html. Some activities, such as Vessel Examinations and Marine Dealer Visits have their own forms. Who: If youre working on something with one or more other members (such as a patrol, a public education program, a vessel examination blitz or a public affairs event), determine who will complete the appropriate form its usually the boat owner or the event coordinator. If youre working solo, youre it! Where: Send your forms to me, on a monthly basis. In particular, I must

PERSONNEL SERVICES
Bob Orenstein, FSO-PS The flotilla is going strong with new transferees and members. Were about to start with the next group of people and the membership classes. Lets make all of the strangers feel like they are already members at our functions. When talking about the flotilla, lets keep the talk positive...let the negativity go! For all of you staff officers, lets keep in mind that the new talent coming in may eventually be your replacements. So lets both encourage these new folks and make them feel welcome.

CAREER COUNSELOR
Brent Hepburn, FSO-CC As the new school year starts (yes, thats right in August!).Im on the lookout for good candidates for the Coast Guard Academy class of 2007. I contact high school guidance counselors and put out recruiting materials in places where young people might congregate (churches, libraries, cafes, etc.). Were looking primarily for high school seniors who are outstanding scholars, athletes and leaders. Sound like a lot to ask for? You bet it is, and thats what makes the USCGA the toughest service academy to get into. If you can recommend someone between the ages of 17 and 21, in good physical and moral health, also very smart, and who is called by a sense of duty to country, have them call me! We can start the admissions application now and get an early decision by December. My telephone number is 884-6625. Remember: Were all pulling together!

SHAKE IT OFF!
Division Captain Ellen Kreiling took a fall at home early Friday morning, 19 July, and broke her left femur and cracked her pelvis. She underwent surgery the next morning to put things back together with the aid of some hardware. Being the trooper that she is, Ellen very ably officiated at the Division 12 meeting on 27 July. Ellen is at home and is expected to be resuming her duties as QE after a brief recuperation period.

FROM THE SO-VE

This time of year, our efforts with VSCs tend to lag a bit. However, think of all the boat owners we missed while walking the docks. Weve missed not only the opportunity to examine a boat, but also to further somebodys education and possible new membership into our flotillas. We shouldnt forget that each exam is also a chance of enrolling another student into a BS&S class. Lets double our efforts and try to get to all of those boaters who werent on their boats when we came by that day.

Check out the page on knots at http://www.mistral.co.uk/42brghtn/k nots/ To fight fear, act. To increase fear wait, put off, postpone. David Joseph Schwartz

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and secure the stern line. Even with a single screw boat, this gives very good control.

August 2002

The Old Salt

The Mysteries of Docking The Old Salt was sitting on his boat at the marina when he observed a transient sailor who had entered a channel to turn into a slip. Apparently his mate wasnt quite ready with the lines, so he backed his sailboat out to give her time to get ready. What amazed The Old Salt was that he backed this full keel sailboat out, in a straight line, with a tidal current running, in a cross-breeze. The Old Salts experience with sailboats is that in backing them down, they do whatever they please, so he was truly in awe of this sailors skill. But for most of us mere mortals, one of Murphys many laws still holds; when you try to dock in terrible conditions, there will be no one to witness a truly skillful docking but everyone sees when you hit the dock in a dead calm at slack tide. To ease this a bit, The Old Salt wants to offer a couple of simple suggestions. 1. Beware of the enthusiastic guy on the dock who wants to take your bowline and snug it taut so that your bow is now nearly vertical to the dock and the stern is free to swing out and hit something. 2. Instead, have a line ready to run either from a mid-deck cleat, or if your boat does not have one, have a bow line led aft as a spring line. Whoever is handling the line should secure the line ashore aft of the bow. For example, say you are approaching a dock to starboard and you are six or eight feet off the dock. If this line is led sharply aft, a small forward throttle, with the wheel turned to port will turn the rudder so that it will turn the bow away from the dock. However the line led aft will turn the stern toward the dock so a second line can be tossed or someone can step ashore

END OF THE LINE?

No, the crew of Serendipity has not been lost at sea. We are alive and well (if not a little stressed) and almost settled in our new abode. Serendipity is still for sale as the market has been flat as a pancake for the last few months, but maybe now that the stock market has hit the bottom (according to me, the eternal optimist) sales will pick up and we can pass her on to some deserving cruisers. Even so, we have contracted for a house and have a closing date of 31 July. If all goes well, our new address will be: 6550 Crews Lake Hills Loop East Lakeland FL 33813 and our new phone number will be: (863) 701-7049. We will, for the time being keep the same email address although our cell number will change as soon as we get in the house and change services. We will be back and forth to the boat which is in Bradenton for the first few weeks and our household goods will be delivered around the 10th of August. We have a little painting and wallpapering to do before then, so bring work clothes if you plan to visit during that time. If not visiting, please pray for no hurricanes on Floridas west coast until after the boat sells. Cheers to all and, como Dios manda, we will see you all again soon. Ken and Carol Krause

ATTENTION ON DECK
Announcing the arrival of William Walsh, III (a.k.a. Trey) Parents: Lt. j.g. William Walsh and Sarah Walsh Arrival: 24 July, 2002 at 1210 Weight: 7 lb, 2 oz. Height: 20 Mother, baby and father doing fine. Father will need 3 weeks recuperation leave.

REPORT ON THE DIVISION MEETING

John Sikes, FSO-PB Attending the Division 12 meeting on 27 July was DCO Mary Larsen, who reported on a new Hot Weather Uniform for patrols that has been authorized for D7 members activities. The uniform includes dark blue crew neck T-shirt, dark blue shorts/standard belt, all white, crew length socks and black safety/athletic shoes or brown deck shoes. This unique outfit is an addition to the Hot Weather Uniform as described in the Auxiliary Manual. The description of the T-shirt is as follows, T-shirts must be crew neck type and as close in color to Coast Guard dark blue as possible. The dark blue T-shirt shall be marked with the words, U.S. Coast Guard, in a straight line over the left chest area, printed in one-half inch gold letters. These are the only markings authorized on this T-shirt. CGD SEVENINST 1010.1A, 5.b.(3) As is the case with all Seventh District specific items, the uniform must be authorized by Group prior to our being able to wear them.

A NEW PRODUCT
from Up Top In Operations, by John Van Osdol, DC-E Most of us are familiar with Quick Reference Cards (QRCs) produced by Davis Instruments. These 8-by-11 plastic cards contain valuable information on navigation, radio, regulations, and other important boating topics. They are waterproof and act as just-in time training aids

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for the skipper and crew while on the water. These cards have been in stock at the AuxCen for some time and will continue to be of value to boaters. However, the size of the present cards, together with the amount of information on each card, makes them somewhat difficult to use, especially on smaller vessels with no convenient place to stow them. So, in a joint venture between the Auxiliary Association, the United States Power Squadrons, and Davis Instruments, we have reinvented the product and now have Pocket Quick Reference Cards. The new PQRCs are small (3 x 4), are still made of waterproof plastic, are in full color, and have a hole punched in one corner so that several PQRCs may be bound together with a small chain. There are six PQRCs to a package and they address 12 different topics, one per side. The topics are: Buoyage Emergencies Fueling Procedures Hypothermia/CO Poisoning Light Signals Nav Rules Pre-Departure Checklist Radio Use Rules of the Road Types of ATONs The fact that these topics correspond to several of the tasks in On Water Training is no coincidence. It was planned that way, as our OWT students represent an excellent market for PQRCs. The logo, name, and the toll free phone number of both the Auxiliary and the Power Squadrons are on each PQRC. Davis will also market the product in their regular outlets, which includes all of the major marine stores. Between Davis, the Auxiliary, and USPS, we anticipate excellent product distribution. PQRCs represent an opportunity to give the student, or a boater at a VSC or boat show, a new and innovative just- in-time training tool, at a great

The Scuttlebutt
price (Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price will be around $10 per set). In addition, they will provide another income source to support other Flotilla activities. If the market responds as anticipated, more PQRCs will be added with additional topics. PQRCs are available through your District Materials Officer. We believe you will find this new product to be a valuable addition to your portfolio of boating safety educational tools.

August 2002
the time the member returned home. It the boat is trailered to the launch site on one day and the patrol is started on another day; or is trailered home the day after the patrol is completed; then a separate ANSC 7030 form is completed just for the Trailering Mission.

DROWNING PEOPLE CLIMB LADDERS

by Jerry Wise, Lake Murray Power Squadron Safety Officer After fueling my fathers 15-foot motorboat, I carefully backed away from the dock. 14 years old and driving the boat alone for the first time. What a wonderful time, a man at last. People everywhere and all must be impressed. A 23-year-old man walked down the dock with his girl friend and jumped in the water just behind the small boat. He came back up splashing and making motions with his hands as if climbing a ladder in the water. It looked funny and his girlfriend doubled over laughing. It was strange how red his face was. Still splashing, he slipped back under water. After 30 seconds or so, he came back up splashing with even more effort. She really thought that was cute. As he went back under, I yelled, Is he OK? She said, Sure, hes cutting up. A few seconds later just his hands came up together held side by side in perfect formation as if he were showing her how deep the water was. Another minute or so went by and he did not come up. Motoring back to the dock I asked the girl Are you sure hes OK? I dont know she replied. As any heroic Boy Scout would do, I jumped in and dove down looking for the victim. Diving down time after time and nothing. Each time on coming to the surface I would call for help and gasp

REPORTING TIME SPENT TRAILERING A BOAT FACILITY

from AUXDATA Update #3 Under AUXMIS, time spent trailering a boat facility was included in the Travel Time reported for the boats mission, and was entered on the Mission Activity Report as such. Under AUXDATA, Travel and Prep time is no longer entered on the Activity Report - Mission. There is now, however, a Trailer Mission Activity where time spent trailering a facility is reported on the Activity Report Mission, ANSC 7030. When members trailer a facility to the launch site and go on patrol at that time, both the Trailer Activity and Patrol activity are recorded on the same ANSC 7030. The time the member departs home with the boat in tow is entered in the START Column. The word TRAILER is entered in that column opposite MISSION. When the boat is launched and the time the patrol starts is entered in the Change1" column along with the mission type. If the boat is to be trailered back home on the same day as the patrol is concluded, the Change 2" column would indicate the time the patrol is completed and the word TRAILER again entered opposite MISSION. The FINISH column would indicate

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a few quick breaths. Nobody came to help but the shore quickly lined with spectators. No words can express the terror you feel diving in dark murky water knowing a body is nearby. The experience is good for creating a lifetime of claustrophobia. A short while later the officers dragged (an outdated method of recovery where large fish hooks chained to a metal bar are pulled over the bottom hooking the person) him to the surface. In the latest issue of Seaworthy by BoatU.S., some comments illustrate the process of drowning: ..researchers have found that someone who is drowning lacks the lung capacity to call for help. A drowning victim acts instinctively, moving his or her arms as though climbing a ladder, taking quick gulps of air and then slipping back underwater. With an adult, this reflexive behavior last about 60 seconds before the victim slips underwater. A child will last only for about 20 seconds. The struggle is quiet and often looks playful. Comments: If you ever go around water, learn to swim enough to keep your head above water for five minutes or more. Of course, wear a PFD when on your boat. Many drown while at the docks or at anchor where your guard is down (Natalie Wood drowned when she fell off her anchored boat at night). Every year, have a drill. In a safe, supervised place with water to neck level, practice falling in. If you wear an inflatable PFD, jump in and activate it. We wear them and held a drill this year. We could not find the inflation cord (it was pushed up in the pouch so it wouldnt snag cool move). More Comments: If someone drowns and is recovered in reasonable time (45 minutes in cold water, 20 minutes in warm) start CPR. Do not worry about water in the lungs (many drowning victims do not have lungs full of water), try to force air into the

The Scuttlebutt
lungs. If the person recovers this is a near drowning. They have some water (and consequently every pollutant in the water) in their lungs. This is called aspiration. Many will not survive the next two days due to complications and infections. A person revived from drowning must be admitted and carefully watched after a near drowning.

August 2002
operating on authorized frequencies outside the VHF marine band (for example, repeaters) must also be type accepted/type approved. However, these stations do not have to contain the required frequencies identified by the Commandant.

TRAILERING SAFETY
from On Course, Flotilla 12-3, July 2002 You may have already seen this picture that has bounced around the Internet. Id like to tell the rest of the story that appeared in the last issue of Trailer Boats magazine.

COMMS CORNER
from Whats Up In Operations, July 2002 Auxiliarists owning or operating an Auxiliary communications facility must have the following training: A. Auxiliarists owning or operating fixed land, land mobile, or RDF facilities must complete the Auxiliary Communications Specialty Course (AUXCOM). Auxiliarists must also take any other training required by the District Commander. B. Auxiliarists operating radios on boats, aircraft, or special purpose facilities must have the appropriate boat or air crew qualifications or Auxiliarists must complete the AUXCOM and any other training required by the District Commander. C. A u x i l i a r i s t s standing communications watches at a Coast Guard unit must be at least Basically Qualified (BQ) or must complete New Member Indoctrination and Entry Training, and must meet the qualification requirements set by that unit.

The July issue of Trailer Boats Magazine had an article giving the rest of the story. A California Highway Patrol Officer took this picture last Fall on a mountain road in the San Bernardino mountains of southern California. It seems a boater was towing his boat down a mountain road and pulled off to the side in a gravel covered turnout to allow traffic which had back upped behind him, to pass. Unfortunately, a combination of short turnout and loose gravel couldnt stop the forward momentum of the boat, trailer, and truck. The result was a truck, with the driver still inside, hanging over a 600 foot cliff. The only thing that saved the driver and his truck was the proper sized trailer hitch, a locked down coupling between the trailer and the truck, and safety chains. There was no mention in the article about whether the boat trailer had working brakes. A wrecker was able to

EQUIPMENT
For a fixed land, land mobile, or direction-finding radio station to qualify for facility status, it must meet all facility, frequency, and inspection requirements. The radio station must also have an FCC type accepted/type approved transmitter. Receive-only RDF stations are exempt from the transmitter type requirement. Stations

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pull the truck and driver back up on the road safely. There was no damage to the boat or trailer. The truck was drivable. The driver was physically unhurt. Someone else drove the boat down the rest of the mountain. This picture shows the importance of having and using the proper safety equipment and driving skills when towing our boats. Most of the time we blame the boat behind us for our problems when towing, rarely do we think it for our salvation.

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a new member. Charlie is a former member of the USCG (gold side). Dean also presented Alan James with his Communications Specialist designation. Petty Officer John Allen (CG Station Charleston Auxiliary Liaison) gave a brief presentation regarding the heightened duties of the CG here in Charleston. He discussed some of the new vessels that will be utilized by the Charleston base for harbor patrol. John also discussed changes in security zones in the harbor and adjacent waterways. Marguerite Bishop read a note from the family of a retired member who recently passed away, thanking the Auxiliary for their thoughts and the spray of flowers sent to the funeral. The following staff officer reports were given: ANDan Cowley reported that there will be an ATON workshop and patrol at 1400 on 17 August. Dan reported that the manual is available online for anyone interested in becoming an Aids Verifier. VEDave Beaudrot discussed the work of Vessel Examiners, and he also discussed the forms Examiners are required to prepare following vessel examinations. CMMarguerite Bishop reported that a couple of new communications facilities are coming on line. She also mentioned that a number of Auxiliarists are not following correct communications procedures while on the radio. Marguerite stressed the importance of following correct communication procedures while on patrol. MATom Beauchemin reported that he has a new catalogue for uniform procurement. Dean Creed reminded everyone that the USCGAUX website has information about materials available for auxiliarists. PSBob Orenstein discussed the need to have new members try to determine how they can become

August 2002
involved in the Auxiliary. Bob indicated that he would attempt to help new members set up a course of direction for their involvement with the Auxiliary. FNJoey Bokern provided information regarding the balance in our operating account. Dues notices will go out in August. PEDean reported that two instructors are needed for the upcoming BSC class. PADick Clarke discussed the importance of letting the public know about work of the Auxiliary. Dick also reported on National Safe Boating Week. Upon a motion made and seconded, the May Membership Meeting minutes were approved as written. Ellen Kreiling reported that our Division had logged over 7000 hours of on-the-water Division patrols since 9/11. Dean reminded everyone of the Division meeting on 27 July in Mt. Pleasant. Dean reported that members of 12-8 had been invited to join the USCG on the Dallas to travel out to greet the Academys Eagle as it enters Charleston Harbor on 26 July. Anyone interested in going needs to contact Dean. Dean reviewed the calendar for the next couple of months. He reminded everyone that the calendar will be posted on the flotillas website. Marguerite reported that she would start a Weather Course on 17 September or 23 September (classes will begin at 1900). Dean presented a mini-workshop on AUXDATA forms. Dean says we are under- reporting hours by approx. 80%. The accurate reporting of time is important because funding for the Auxiliary is dependent on the number of hours presented. Dean reviewed how to fill out the Member Activity Log and Activity ReportMission.

FLOTILLA 12-8 MEMBERSHIP MEETING MINUTES

10 JULY 2002 Flotilla Commander Dean Creed called the meeting to order at 1915. Vinnie Gennaro led the Pledge of Allegiance. Members and visitors present: Bobby Baker Jeff Barnes Tom Beauchemin Dave Beaudrot Marguerite Bishop Jerome Bishop Joey Bokern Dick Clarke Dan Cowley Dean Creed Mike Ethridge Vinnie Gennaro Brett Grooms Allen James Daniel Johnson Jon Johnson Bob Kreiling Ellen Kreiling Bob Mathewes Bob Orenstein Jane Orenstein Nelson Ohl Charles Taylor Robert Wieland Henry Wolf Following the introduction of visitors, Dean Creed swore in Charlie Taylor as

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Dan Cowley reported that he has been asked to recruit auxiliarists to work on Yellowfin during weekends. These volunteers must be either Crew or Coxswain qualified. Anyone interested should see Dan. Brett reported that the Aviation program is still moving forward. Dean distributed grant applications for one of the BoatU.S. grants. Dean stated that the September meeting would be a dinner meeting at a local restaurant (the precise location will be provided at next months meeting). The October meeting will be a cookout here at the base. Meeting adjourned at 2045. Respectfully submitted, Mike Ethridge, FSO-SR

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August 2002
So, come on, get creative and complete your application TODAY! Editors note: Dean has the details and applications, and would be happy to assist anyone with an idea. Let's get some of this money and use it to promote safe boating in Charleston County!

GRANTS GRANTS GRANTS

An Update on the BoatU.S. Foundation Grants Programs from the Department of B The Grass Roots Grants (up to $5,000 per project) have been renamed by BoatU.S. as the Boating Safety Grants. This has no effect on the applicants and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. However, if you receive a reply concerning your application under the Grass Roots program, you may see the new name. To read all about them go to: http://www.cgaux.org/cgauxweb/ boating/BoatUS_Application1.pdf. There are several documents available that may be viewed 0at http://www.boatus.com/foundation/ Grants/cg_grg_online_instructions.h tm. While many boating safety campaigns share important recurring messages like Wear A Life Jacket applicants are encouraged to address issues specific to their area, such as weather and current patterns or navigational hazards. Past successes have included safety events, printed materials, advertising campaigns, and public service announcements. Preference is given to applications for pilot programs and new ideas Note: The deadline for the initial grant review by the BC-BNG, Gene Kahn, is September 2nd. Dont delay. The Clean Water Grants applications are now up on the Auxiliary Web Site in Whats New. This is a BoatU.S. Foundation annual program to award grants of up to $2,000 to support education and hands-on efforts aimed at cleaning up our boating environment. Emphasis is placed upon funding innovative ways to reach boaters and anglers with positive messages about preventing pollution before it starts. Proposals that include in-kind donations are encouraged.

LIFE JACKETS (PFDS)

Archie H Schmidt FSO-PA 9-10 D7 PFDs come in a variety of shapes, colors, sizes and materials. Some are made to be more rugged and last longer while others are made to protect you from cold water or an impact with the water. There are stylish ones, and plain ones. And then there are different types. No matter which PFD you choose, be sure to get the one that is right for you. Select one based on your planned activities, and the water conditions you expect to encounter. Remember, spending a little time now can save your life later. United States Coast Guard (USCG) approval means that the PFD has passed rigorous testing. So, always look for the USCG approval number on any PFD you buy. Be sure to read the manufacturers label and the Think Safe pamphlet that is attached to the jacket. Youll find valuable information there. You have heard of the inflatable PFDs. They are available in adult sizes only. They are comfortable for continuous wear in hot weather and provide high flotation when inflated. Because inflatable have limited buoyancy without being inflated, they are not considered appropriate for use by nonswimmers or weak swimmers, unless worn inflated. They are not for use by children younger than 16 years of age or by persons weighing less than 80 pounds. Inflatable PFDs use a replaceable CO2 gas cylinder as the primary means for inflation. They can also be inflated by blowing into a tube. There are two types of inflation systems being offered manual inflation

AIDS TO NAVIGATION CLASS TO BE OFFERED

Larry Moran, SO-AN Mark Ratliff and Larry Moran will be holding an ATON Verification class from 0900-1300 on Saturday, 03 AUG 2002 at CG Base Charleston. This is a definite area where the Coast Guard looks to the Auxiliary for help in doing a job. Their resources are spread thin since 9/11, and there is a lot of coastal and lake waters that must be covered. If you are at all interested in becoming an Aids to Navigation (ATON) Verifier, please respond to this email and let me know. This class will teach you much of what you have to know. Don't hesitate in contacting Dean Creed with any questions. Thanks for your interest! The reason firehouses have circular stairways is from the days of yore when the engines were pulled by horses. The horses were stabled on the ground floor and figured out how to walk up straight staircases.

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requires the user to jerk on a pull-tab (lanyard) to inflate. The second is called manual-auto inflation. This type includes a back-up system designed to automatically inflate when it is submerged. The manual-auto type can also be inflated in the same manner as the manual type. The CO2 gas cylinder is good for only one inflation. To keep the inflatable PFD in a serviceable condition, a used CO2 cylinder must be replaced after each inflation. You must check the status of the cylinder before each use. Inflatable PFDs must NOT be worn under clothing because automatic or accidental inflation could restrict breathing and cause injury. They are not suitable for use with personal watercraft or while water-skiing. Now, there is no reason to complain about the bulk or how hot it is to wear a PFD. Go get one! SAFE BOATING ACCIDENT! IS NO

The Scuttlebutt
enclosed cabin. The regulations apply on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, on the waters of states with no requirements for children to wear PFDs, and on the high seas beyond the territorial seas for recreational vessels owned in the United States. Editors Note: South Carolina has its own law specifying the age requirement of 12 years of age. This supercedes the federal requirement in our state as noted below. The Regulations also provide for adopting any state requirement for children to wear PFDs as the Federal Requirement within that state. To ensure that the recreational boating public has adequate notice of the new Federal Requirements, we are advising recreational vessel operators of the new Federal Requirements during the 2002 boating season, before the rule goes into effect. Enforcement will commence on 1 January 2003. In addition, boarding officers should encourage recreational vessel operators to have children on their vessels wear PFDs now for safety and to comply with applicable state requirements. Enforcement options, once effective, for violations of the new Federal Requirements include, issuing written warnings or notices of discrepancy, at the discretion of the Boarding Officer, to the operator of recreational vessels under way with children aboard who are not wearing PFDs, in violation of the Federal Requirement. By law, a violation of Federal Requirements on carriage or use of safety equipment on recreational vessels could be subject to a maximum civil penalty of $1,100 for each violation, with a recommended penalty ranging from $50 to $250 for each violation. This range of penalty is in keeping with the range of penalty for not having a PFD readily accessible. Law Enforcement Officers are authorized and encouraged to maintain local liaison with state Law Enforcement officials to ensure

August 2002
accurate and timely knowledge of the state requirements for children wearing PFDs on waters under their jurisdiction. Following are a number of questions and answers to provide guidance on interpretation and enforcement of the Federal Regulations and to clarify the meaning of terms and application of the Federal Requirements in specific circumstances Q. What is below decks? Does it include the space below a flying bridge deck? A. Below decks is below the main deck. A space below a flying bridge deck does not qualify. However, such a space may be an enclosed cabin. Q. What is an enclosed cabin? Does plastic or canvas siding qualify as an enclosed cabin? A. An enclosed cabin is a space that is enclosed by solid bulkhead, windows or doors. A space with button down or tied down plastic or canvas coverings over rails or braces does not qualify as an enclosed cabin. Q. If an enclosed cabin on a vessel has a sliding door(s) as the after bulkhead, is it still an enclosed cabin with the sliding door(s) locked in the open position? A. Yes, it is still an enclosed cabin even with the door(s) locked open. Q. Do we enforce all of a states requirements for children to wear PFDS on recreational vessels as the federal requirement on waters under our jurisdiction within that state? A. Yes, including age of child, length of vessel or other state requirement. Q. Does the Federal Age requirement revert to under 13 beyond 3 miles out, (the territorial waters)? A. The Federal Age Requirement reverts to under 13 seaward of state waters. The limit of state waters may vary, however, by state. For example, Florida exercises state jurisdiction out to 3 miles on the Atlantic coast, but out to 9 miles off the Gulf coast. The district legal office should be consulted to confirm the extent of state

ENFORCEMENT POLICY FOR NEW REGULATIONS REQUIRING CERTAIN CHILDREN ABOARD RECREATIONAL VESSELS TO WEAR PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES
RADM Kenneth T. Venuto, Acting Assistant Commandant for Operations The Coast Guard published new interim regulations in the Federal Register [67 FR 42488] on 24 June 2002 and they will become effective on 23 December 2002. The Regulations establish a Federal Requirement for children under 13 years old aboard recreational vessels to wear Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), while the vessel is under way, unless the children are below decks or in an

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jurisdiction for each state within the district. Q. Do the regulations apply to chartered vessels? A. No. The regulations apply only to recreational vessels, whether owned or rented for recreational use. Vessels carrying passengers for hire, such as six-packs, head boats, party boats, etc., are commercial vessels and are not subject to this regulation. Q. Can a State Law Enforcement Officer take action regarding the Federal Regulation?

The Scuttlebutt
A. Any Law Enforcement Officer can submit a CG-4100 form (Report of Boarding) through an appropriate Coast Guard unit to a Coast Guard Hearing Officer to process a civil penalty violation. Q. How do we verify the age of children to determine whether or not there is a violation of the PFD wearing requirement? A. In most cases, the verbal claim of the child will suffice. If the Boarding Officer has reasonable grounds to doubt the verbal claim, identification

August 2002
may be sought. In the absence of identification, and where reasonable grounds exist to suspect a violation, enforcement action should be taken, with amplifying information noted on the CG-4100s form. This guidance will be reflected in a future revision to the Maritime Law Enforcement Manual, COMDTINST ML6247.1 (series).

Flotilla 12-8 Calendar August 2002

Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Flotilla 1208 on-water day Wednesday July 31 1 Thursday LQ 2 Friday 3 Saturday

6 Flotilla 12-8 on-water day

NM

10

Nagasaki bombed, 1945 11 12 13 Flotilla 12-8 on-water day 14 Staff mtg, 1730, Membership mtg, 1900 21 22 FM 15 FQ 16 Elvis Presley died, 1977 Bela Lugosi died, 1956 23 24 17

Dog Days end 18 19 20 Flotilla 12-8 on-water day

25

26

27 Flotilla 12-8 on-water day

28

29

30

LQ

31 Major Earthquake hit Charleston, 1886

What We See Depends Mostly On What We Look For.