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Life jacket safety is theme of boating safety season kick-off - Monday, April 26, 2010

LOCAL COAST GUARD AUXILIARY UNIT TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEKs

The United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary will be celebrate National Safe Boating week during daylong celebration, Saturday, May 29th at Foster Reservoir. A highlight of the event will be a Search and Rescue demonstration conducted by a US Coast Guard helicopter which will begin at approximately 1:30 PM.

Representatives from the Auxiliary will be stationed at Sunnyside Park conducting FREE vessel safety checks and passing out safe boating literature. In addition, members will be on hand at the Point viewing area during the helicopter demonstration to answer questions.

The North American Safe Boating Campaign unites the efforts of a wide variety of boating safety advocates, including NASBLA, the Canadian Safe Boating Council and the many members of the National Safe Boating Council. The campaign is produced under a grant from the Sports Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.

While boating is a safe and fun recreational activity enjoyed by thousands every year, in 2010 there may still be more than 600 boating fatalities from boating accidents. With this statistic in mind, the 2009 North American Boating Campaign is again encouraging boaters to “Wear It!” during National Safe Boating Week.

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Do you really need an anchor on your boat?

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 23:55:00 -0500

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Date: September 3, 2010
Contact: Tom Loughlin
tom-bon@msn.com
Home: (727) 868-9342

Press Release

Do you really need an anchor on your boat?

The federal government and most state governments do not require that an anchor be carried on board. But would you leave shore without a radio or a first aid kit? You aren't required to have them either.

The answer is a matter of common sense and you wanting your passengers to have a safe boating trip. If someone gets a cut or a fish hook accident, you'll want a first aid kit. If you need help or want to contact someone you will need a radio (cell phones depend on being in range of a cell tower).

An anchor could logically be considered a safety/emergency item and save the day. The normal use is to stop over your favorite fishing spot and use the anchor to maintain your position. Another use is to hold the boat in position while you and your friends wade to shore for a picnic. But then there is the frightening situation when your motor fails or runs out of gas and you begin drifting whatever way the current is going.

There is also the stressful situation when heavy weather or a fog bank reduces your visibility. Should this happen don't try to outrun it to shore since a collision with something or someone could well be the result. Instead, pull well out of the channel, turn on your navigation lights and lower your anchor. A sufficient length of the anchor line should be 7 times the depth of the water. Don't forget to sound your whistle or horn 2 long blasts at 2 minute intervals. And listen for the sounds of an approaching boat! Another good idea is to secure a fender to your anchor line where it is attached to the boat. The reason here is that if you do detect a boat heading your way and it is apparently not hearing or ignoring your warning sounds or radio calls on Channel 16 that you can cut the line and get out of the way. The fender would then allow you to return to the spot and retrieve your anchor.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer Component of the United States Coast Guard created by an Act of Congress in 1939. The Auxiliary, America's Volunteer Guardians, supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service's missions.

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Original post blogged on b2evolution.

New Coast Guard Auxiliary National Commodore Targets Boating Deaths

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 22:33:54 -0500

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Public Affairs

Date: August 26, 2010
Contact: Phil Bailey
Phone:417.271.9116
Email: pwbailey@centurytel.net
http://auxpa.org

News Release

New Coast Guard Auxiliary National Commodore Targets Boating Deaths

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Jim Vass of Port O'Connor, Texas; the new Coast Guard Auxiliary National Commodore; charged the Coast Guard Auxiliary, to reduce deaths on our waterways."We need to recommit ourselves to improving recreational boating safety and making a serious dent in reducing the recreational boating death growth rates, Commodore Vass said."

2009 saw an increase of 3.8% in recreational boating deaths because people fail to wear life jackets, are inattentive, and consume alcohol while operating boats. Nearly 75 percent of the 736 people who died in boating accidents in 2009 drowned, and 84 percent of those victims reportedly were not wearing a life jacket. Our waterways should be fun, not places where you lose your life commented Vass.

Commodore Vass began his association with the Coast Guard Auxiliary in 1991 and has served in a host of positions at the local, regional and national levels. Most recently he was the national vice commodore. He holds qualifications as an instructor, vessel examiner, and boat coxswain. His awards include the Coast Guard Auxiliary Medal of Operational Merit, Commendation Medal, Service Award, the Coast Guard Unit Commendation, and Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary created by an Act of Congress in 1939 is the uniformed civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard supporting the Coast Guard in nearly all its missions.

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Original post blogged on b2evolution.

Coast Guard Auxiliary Leaders Meet in Arizona Desert

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 19:35:26 -0500

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Public Affairs

Date: August 24, 2010

Contact: Christopher Todd

Public Affairs Officer

Phone:305.490.6030

Email: ctodd@auxpao.org

http://auxpa.org

News Release

Coast Guard Auxiliary Leaders Meet in Arizona Desert

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Coast Guard Auxiliary leaders from around the nation began meeting today in Scottsdale, Arizona to elect a new National Commodore and other senior leaders. Participants will also learn new techniques and procedures to keep America?s Waterways safe.

NACON is sponsored by the Coast Guard Auxiliary Association, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides business management and training support for the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Nationwide, recreational boating deaths increased 3.8 percent in 2009, a figure the Coast Guard Auxiliary wants to reduce. Despite its landlocked location, Arizona ranks fifth in nation for reportable boating accidents. Arizona waterways include Lakes Powell, Mead, Mohave, Havasu, Roosevelt, and Pleasant.

Coast Guard Auxiliary members are receiving training across a variety of areas including recreational boating safety, paddle sports education, program performance measurement, and the Coast Guard Academy Admissions Partner program.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, created by an Act of Congress in 1939, is the uniformed civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all its missions. For more information on the Coast Guard Auxiliary please visit cgaux.org

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Original post blogged on b2evolution.

Coast Guard Station Seattle Change of Command

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 20:50:07 -0500

Coast Guard Station Seattle welcomed Lt. Kristofer A. Tsairis and bid farewell to Lt. Melanie A. Burnham, during a time-honored change of command ceremony here, today.

Tsairis reports from Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown, Va., where he served as the Chief of Afloat Operations and Non-resident Training for Boat Forces and Cutter Operations.

Burnham will remain local to pursue a Master's Degree at the University of Washington as part of the Coast Guard's Advanced Engineering, Computer and Technology Program.

Lt. Tsairis thanks Station Seattle for their service and delivers his expectations to the crew, as Cmdr. Michael Long, Sector Puget Sound, Chief of Response Division and Lt. Burnham, outgoing Commanding Officer of Station Seattle look on.

Station Seattle's success and operational capability was recently proven by receiving the distinguished honor of the Sumner I. Kimball Award for excellence in April 2009, placing the unit in the top ten-percent of all small boat stations in the Coast Guard.

Cmdr. Michael Long, Sector Puget Sound, Chief of Response Division presents Lt. Melanie Burnham, outgoing Commanding Officer of Station Seattle with the Coast Guard Commendation Medal for her excellence in leadership and training innovation.

Station Seattle is comprised of 46 active duty Coast Guard men and women with a compliment of 42 reservists; two different operational platforms, three 41-foot Utility Boat and six 25-foot Defender Class Response Boat Small, servicing a maritime area of nearly 3,000 miles of nautical shoreline, stretching from Coupeville, Wash., south to Olympia, Wash., including both the Hood Canal and Lake Washington.

Boating Fatality---Your Family?

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:52:32 -0500

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Tom Loughlin

USCG Auxiliary

Tom-bon@msn.com

August 9, 2010

Press Release

Boating Fatality---Your Family?

New Port Richey Florida - Have you ever heard the phrase, “That’ll never happen to me”?

Of the 6,347 boats involved in accidents in 2008 only 1,146 operators, or 18 %, had any type of safe boating instruction. Four hundred sixty five of these operators, or 7%, had less than 10 hours experience driving a boat.

We read about a boating accident in the newspapers and say it. We see it on TV and remark how someone else really goofed up. We hear on the radio about a boating accident and think the boaters were so stupid. What about us?

The worst statistics are the innocents, the friends and family who trusted their lives and safety to someone with little or no training. In 2008 alone 709 people lost their lives and 3,331 received medical treatment beyond first aid.

In most cases only one person made a mistake but in all cases others paid dearly for it.

Sign up for a safe boating class. Always wear a life jacket while on the boat. Don’t drink and boat. Do these and you can safely say, “That’ll never happen to me!”

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer Component of the United States Coast Guard created by an Act of Congress in 1939. The Auxiliary, America’s Volunteer Guardians, supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service’s missions.

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Original post blogged on b2evolution.

life Jackets save Lives

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 01:10:17 -0500

US Coast Guard Auxiliary Public Affairs

Date: August 4, 2010

Contact: Phil Bailey

Phone: 417.271.9116

Email: pwbailey@centurytel.net

http://auxpa.org

Press Release

Life Jackets Save Lives

Washington - The Coast Guard Auxiliary wants everyone to have fun and to be safe on the water but we know from statistics that deaths caused by recreational boating accidents have increased by 3.8 percent in 2009. A sad note is most adults do NOT wear a life jacket unless they are skiing, tubing, or riding a wave runner. A program to emphasize the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s goal of getting everybody to wear a life jacket while on the water was to hold a raffle. Adults caught by a member of the Auxiliary wearing a life jacket are given a ticket for a drawing to be held once a month and the winner receiving a FREE dinner for two at a local restaurant. The local newspapers bought into this since it stresses the importance of wearing a life Jacket. Flyers posted around town publicizing this endeavor spread the message even further. Children should wear a life jackets but like adults, the older children won’t because they don’t have to past a certain age. T shirts are given to children with the words…. I was caught wearing my Life Jacket by the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Local stores selling ice cream participated by giving away child size cups of ice cream if they presented a coupon from the Auxiliary. The above methods have been used and do stress the importance of wearing a life jacket. There is really no reason not to wear a life jacket with the light weight inflatable’s for sale today. Nearly 75 percent of the 736 people who died in boating accidents in 2009 drowned, and 84 percent of those victims reportedly were not wearing a life jacket. Take a boating safety course and wear your life jacket.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniform volunteer component of the US Coast Guard created by an Act of Congress in 1939. The Auxiliary, America's Volunteer Guardians, supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service's missions.

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Original post blogged on b2evolution.

Coast Guard: Recreational boating accident deaths on the rise

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 17:58:38 -0500

By the CNN Wire Staff
August 3, 2010 10:54 a.m. EDT
STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Fatal accidents for recreational boaters increased by 3.8 percent in 2009
Inattention, inexperience and alcohol consumption were common contributors to the accidents
Wearing a life jacket and taking boater education classes are good preventative measures, the Coast Guard says

Washington (CNN) -- Recreational boating accident deaths are on the rise, the U.S. Coast Guard's Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety announced in its 2009 Recreational Boating Statistics report Tuesday.

The report states that deaths caused by recreational boating accidents have increased by 3.8 percent, with related injuries increasing by 0.8 percent, though the number of accidents actually decreased by 1.2 percent.

A total of 4,730 accidents recorded by the Coast Guard in 2009 caused 736 deaths, over 3,300 injuries and about $36 million in property damage, according to the report. A number called the fatality rate, which compares the number of annual deaths against the number of registered boats, increased to 5.8 deaths per 100,000 registered boats in 2009.

The top five contributing factors to the accidents included boat operator inattention and inexperience, excessive speed, improper lookout and alcohol consumption. The report states that alcohol consumption "continues to be of major concern" in fatal accidents, and was the leading factor in 16 percent of deaths.

In addition, a full 86 percent of boat operators involved in fatal accidents had not received boat safety instruction.

"Nearly 75 percent of the 736 people who died in boating accidents in 2009 drowned, and 84 percent of those victims reportedly were not wearing a life jacket," said Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, the Coast Guard's director of prevention policy. "The two most important things boaters can do to prevent the loss of life is to wear a life jacket and take a boater education course."

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Original post blogged on b2evolution.

Coast Guard Auxiliary National Conference

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:50:27 -0500

CONTACT: Christopher Todd

Public Affairs Officer NACON

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Tel: (305) 490-6030

E-mail: ctodd@auxpao.org

July 26, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

COAST GUARD AUXILIARY NATIONAL CONFERENCE (NACON) IN ARIZONA

Coast Guard Auxiliary Members will elect a new National Commodore

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will hold its 2010 National Conference (NACON) at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa August 22-29. ADM Bob Papp, Commandant of the Coast Guard, is scheduled as the keynote speaker at the Commodores Banquet on Saturday, August 28.

NACON is the national forum where Auxiliary members from all states, territories and common wealths come together to train, and develop strategies to define the future of our organization, said Commodore Nicholas Kerrigan, National Commodore.
Several new officers, including a new National Commodore, will be elected. Scheduled training includes:

Maintenance and Care of Equipment

Social Media and the Auxiliary

Paddle Sports training for the public

Performance Measurements

Inflatable Life Jackets

Cold Water Boot Camp

Standardized Auxiliary Boat Operations Training

NACON is open to all members and friends of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Those interested in attending NACON are encouraged to learn more by visiting: cgaux.org/nacon

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Original post blogged on b2evolution.

After 30 years of service Coast Guardsmen says farewell

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 20:17:22 -0500

After 30 years of service to his country and the Coast Guard, Chief Warrant Officer Donald Westmoreland retired from service today at Coast Guard Base Seattle.

Westmoreland's career began in 1980, and upon graduating from Coast Guard basic training he reported to Coast Guard Headquarters Washington, D.C. Later that year he reported to yeoman A-School in Petaluma, Calif., subsequently advancing to Petty Officer 3rd Class and transferring to Yorktown, Va.

In 1984, Westmoreland reported to the 2nd Coast Guard District working for the Marine Safety Division. In 1987 he transferred to Group Key West, Fla., where he met his wife Maureen.

Westmoreland, right, receiving his Coast Guard Commendation Medal from Cmdr. Benes Aldana. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Eric J. Chandler.

Westmoreland's duty stations took him to Coast Guard Cutter Resolute, Marine Safety Office Tampa, Fla., Group St. Petersburg, Fla., Group Antilles Section San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Coast Guard Cutter Confidence where he was promoted to Chief Petty Officer.

In 2001, Westmoreland was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer and assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. In 2006, he transferred to Integrated Support Command Seattle, which later became Personnel Services and Support Unit Seattle in 2009 where he served as Executive Officer.

Today, Westmoreland was awarded a Coast Guard Commendation Medal for his accomplishments while stationed here. His awards include and are not limited to two Coast Guard Commendation Medals, two Coast Guard Achievement Medals, and four Commandant's Letter of Commendation, and six Coast Guard Good Conduct Awards.

Westmoreland's, service and dedication to excellence will be missed throughout the Coast Guard and we wish him and his family the very best in the coming years.

Chinese Border Control Cadets visit 13th Coast Guard Distirct

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 17:16:16 -0500

The 13th Coast Guard District Command Staff welcomed one officer and five cadets from the People's Republic of China Border Control Thursday.

The representatives stopped in Seattle to visit local Coast Guard assets and facilities, familiarize themselves with Coast Guard roles and missions and to enjoy the sites in and around Puget Sound area.

The delegation is en route to the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn., for a two-week cadet exchange visit.

U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Colin White.

Pictured above with the delegation from the left: Capt. Anne Ewalt, District 13 Chief of Staff, Lt. Clay Pell, translator, Mr. Andrew Connor, District 13 International Affairs and Cmdr. Mark McCadden, District 13 External Affairs.

Auxiliary provides demonstrations

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 16:22:27 -0500

Auxiliarist John Hilbrands and active duty Guardians from Station Portland provided a water safety demonstration to communities in Washougal, Wash. and Vancouver, Wash., Monday, June 21. Mr. Hilbrands stressed the importance of wearing a lifejacket and staying with adults while on or near the water. Kids were able to sit in an inflatable raft to simulate the experience of being on the water, and to climb aboard a 25-foot response boat and ask questions.

This demonstration is just one example of the Coast Guard Auxiliary continuing its volunteer mission of providing boating safety education to the public. Auxiliary Division 7 has been averaging one safety demonstration a week so far this summer.

With a strained work force due to the continuing efforts of our active duty servicemembers in the Gulf of Mexico, D13 Auxiliarists provide an invaluable human resource volunteering many hours of their time to help keep the public safe.

Operation Dry Water..Boat Safe, Boat Sober

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 14:57:00 -0500

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Date: 22 June 2010

Contact: Kirk Scarborough
Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs Dept.
Email: Captkirk55@aol.com

Press Release

Operation Dry Water..Boat Safe, Boat Sober

Operation Dry Water June 25-27, 2010 is a national weekend of Boating Under the Influence (BUI) detection and enforcement aimed at reducing the number of alcohol and drug-related accidents and fatalities.

In case you didn?t already know it, BUI is dangerous and illegal. According to 2008 U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics, alcohol is the leading contributing factor in boating fatalities; nearly one in five boating fatalities each year result from boaters impaired by alcohol.

Operating a recreational vessel with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 percent or higher is against most State and Federal laws. BUI also applies to drugs. Even prescription medications can make operating a recreational vessel unsafe. Check with your doctor about the effects of any medications you may be taking.

A boat operator, drink for drink, will be impaired quicker on the water than on the road. In the marine environment motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind and spray are all factors that help to accelerate a drinker?s impairment.

If marine law enforcement finds that a boat operator is BUI, the vessel?s voyage will be terminated, the boat may be impounded and the operator may be arrested. Penalties vary by state, but can include fines, jail, loss of boating privileges, even loss of driving privileges. During 2009?s operation, more than 220 boaters were arrested.

Operation Dry Water is coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, states and other agencies. It is a nationwide event with more than 80 agencies participating this year.

Consider yourself warned.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard created by an Act of Congress in 1939. The Auxiliary, America?s Volunteer Guardians, supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service?s missions..

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Original post blogged on b2evolution.

U.S. Coast Guard participates in 2010 South Sound Water Rescue Exercise

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 22:04:34 -0500

SEATTLE - The Coast Guard and partner agencies based within the South Puget Sound area participated in a multi-agency annual event today called the 2010 Water Rescue Exercise.

The all-day affair involved search and rescue drills, containment boom deployment and other evolutions.

The annual exercise is held to practice coordination efforts between response agencies.

The exercise primarily focuses on communication and understanding the different capabilities of agencies and their assets.

With the busy summer boating season just starting, it is vital that these first responders train together to provide the public with the best emergency response possible.

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:44:45 -0500

Seattle - Miss Seafair contestants, U.S. Coast Guard and

Navy members, Seafair staff and board members.

The Coast Guard Thirteenth District Commander, Rear Adm. Gary T. Blore, hosted the 2010 Admiral's Tea gathering at his home at Alki Point in Seattle, Tuesday, June 15, 2010, for the Miss Seafair Scholarship program.

The Seafair Scholarship for women has 14 participants representing various communities in and around the Seattle area.

The Admiral's Tea gathering is one of nearly 20 events that the participants will attend over the course of the summer as they compete for over $20,000 and the title of Miss Seafair.

During the event the participants toured the Alki Point lighthouse, enjoyed refreshments and posed for some group photographs.

Rose Festival 2010

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:22:14 -0500

Coast Guard participation in this year’s Rose Festival in Portland, Ore., was a success thanks to the efforts of crews throughout District 13. Despite several days of rain, large crowds were drawn to cutters Fir, Alert, Bluebell, Henry Blake, and Blue Shark, all moored up at the Tom McCall Waterfront Park on the Willamette River.

Crew members from each cutter demonstrated their knowledge to the public, giving tours of the vessels for several hours each day beginning Thursday, June 3 – Sunday, June 6.

Rear Adm. Gary T. Blore was knighted as a Royal Rosarian in a ceremony held in Portland, Thursday, June 3. The Royal Rosarians are 275 men and women who serve as the official greeters and goodwill ambassadors for the City of Portland.

Rear Adm. Gary T. Blore and Capt. Fred G. Myer presented the Coast Guard Meritorious Public Service Award to the owner, master, and crew of the Patricia Lee in Portland, Friday, June 4, 2010. The crew was recognized for their heroic efforts assisting the Coast Guard in the rescue of the crew from the fishing vessel Katmai that sank near Amchitka Island, Alaska, Oct. 22, 2008.

The sun made a much needed appearance for the festivities held Saturday, June 5. An MH-60 Jayhawk crew from Air Station Astoria provided a demonstration over the Willamette while officers aboard Cutter Alert attending the Admiral’s reception looked on. (If you are viewing this blog from a Coast Guard workstation and the video above appears as a blank space, try this link:
\\10.13.16.36\d13de\inbox\Rosefest2010 )

The rain returned Sunday, June 6, but had no impact on the naturalization ceremony held aboard Cutter Alert that afternoon. The Coast Guard and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service partnered to provide the ceremony where twenty local immigrants from 15 countries including Vietnam, Ukraine, Georgia, Belarus, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cambodia, Guatemala, India, Mexico, Moldova, Morocco, New Zealand, Pakistan, Taiwan and the United Kingdom, became U.S. citizens.

Thanks to all participating D13 Guardians for making the Coast Guard’s involvement in this year’s Rosefest a huge success. Our seagoing service was highly visible and represented with pride throughout the week.

Notes from the District: Auxiliary Flotillas 52, 54, and 65 take to the water

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 22:47:08 -0500

Coast Guard Auxiliary members from Flotillas 52, 54, and 65 patrolled Foster Lake in Sweet Home, Ore., May 29-30. I was given the opportunity to ride along, and learned a lot about what it means to be an auxiliarist. These folks not only volunteer a substantial amount of their free time, lightening the active duty workload and benefiting the boating community; they volunteer their boats. Vessels used for official Auxiliary patrols are owned by the auxiliarists themselves.

Auxiliarist Kristy Cates, my coxwain for the day and owner of the 21-foot Bayliner, and Auxiliarist John Marconi, a retired Active duty Coast Guard member, scanned the lake all weekend for troubled boaters. Though no vessels were found to be in distress Saturday morning, the lake had a substantial amount of debris cluttering the surface. Such debris can be a hazard to boaters, skiiers and tubers.

Marconi removes a piece of waterlogged driftwood and places it in in the boat. With only a few inches of the hazard visible above the surface, another three feet lurked below. Marconi spotted it and Cates manuevered the vessel in order to retrieve the potential threat.

Auxiliarist Amy Jacobs conducts a man overboard drill as Oscar takes a routine plunge into the frigid lake. Her husband and coxwain Dale Jacobs was quick to respond at the helm and crewman Bob Remmick helped her retrieve the dummy.

Coast Guard Auxiliarists volunteer entire weekends of their time many months out of the year while often working more than one job during the week. Their efforts do not go unnoticed. On behalf of District 13, thanks for all that you do.

Welcome Keepers of the Other Sound

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 17:43:56 -0500

Coast Guard Base Seattle welcomed the Coast Guard Cutter Sycamore, homeported in Cordova, Alaska, Saturday.

The Sycamore transited across the Gulf of Alaska, through the Strait of Juan de Fuca and in to Seattle just in time for a Memorial Day Weekend port call.

The Sycamore is a 225-foot, Juniper Class, Seagoing Buoy Tender, built in Marinette, Wisc., in 2001 and commissioned in 2002 in Cordova, it replaced the 180-foot cutter Sweetbrier.

Sycamore is equipped with a single controllable pitch propeller, a bow and stern thruster, which gives it maneuverability it needs to tend buoys offshore and in restricted waters. Compared to the 180-foot Sweetbrier a number of technological advances have contributed to the Sycamore's ability to maintain a reduced watch standing complement.

The Sycamore is scheduled to transit up to Everett, Wash., later in the week to conduct Tailored Ship's Training Availability(TSTA), which is conducted in two phases.

The first phase of TSTA consists of a week pierside, conducting numerous damage control, communications, medical, and other drills.

The next phase consists a week of underway training, combining both flight operations and shipboard drills, to include general quarters, damage control, man overboard, and fire drills.

Welcome to the Pacific Northwest Sycamore, enjoy your stay.

Coast Guard hosts Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration

Mon, 24 May 2010 23:19:09 -0500

The Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration was held at the Coast Guard base gym at Pier 36 in Seattle, Monday.

Sponsored by the Base Seattle Human Relations Counsel, the celebration included a Kung Fu demonstration, a Chi Gong class taught by Shifu Jin Le, a 34th generation Shaolin Monk and an Asian food buffet.

The Chi Gong class consisted of deep breathing and stretching exercises that have been practiced at the Shaolin Temple for 1,500-years.

Coast Guard members and family were encouraged to participate in the day's events in support of the Asian Pacific American heritage.

Notes from the District: Oakdale Eagles meet Astoria Jayhawk

Mon, 17 May 2010 17:11:39 -0500

An HH-60 Jayhawk crew from Air Station Astoria flew to the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum in McMinnville, Ore., Wednesday, May 12. The crew presented an interactive display of the helicopter to a 3rd grade class visiting from Oakdale Elementary School in Dallas, Ore.

Lt. Stephen Drauszewski, a pilot and public affairs officer, led the presentation and answered various questions about the Jayhawk’s missions and capabilities. In case you were wondering: no, it doesn’t fly upside down, nor has it conducted any rescues atop Mt. Everest.

After the presentation, students toured the inside of the Jayhawk and took turns sitting in the cockpit.

The curiosity of Mrs. Carter’s class and the hospitality of the museum staff made for a successful mission. Thanks to all for a great day!

Guardian of the week: Ken Babick and Dick Mullinax

Fri, 14 May 2010 21:03:15 -0500

Coast Guard

Auxiliarist

Ken Babick

Coast Guard

Auxiliarist

Dick Mullinax

Ken Babick and Dick Mullinax, Coast Guard Auxiliarists who work with Sector Portland, are commended for their role in preventing a potential disastrous boating accident. Babick and Mullinax were on the Willamette River near Clackamette Park in Oregon City, Ore., conducting training exercises when they witnessed a kayaker fall into the water after misjudging the strong current. Fortunately, the kayaker was able to reach land safely, but when his wife attempted to retrieve his kayak the couple became separated. The woman then became exhausted as she struggled against the current. Babick and Mullinax immediately sprang into action and pulled the distressed woman safely aboard. They were also able to salvage the two kayaks, preventing a possible loss of property. Because of these Auxiliarists quick thinking and fast response the two kayakers are able to paddle another day.

Emerald City Chapter of the Enlisted Association welcomes newest officers

Wed, 12 May 2010 23:56:44 -0500

The Emerald City Chapter of the Coast Guard Enlisted Association held a change of command today for the association's lead officer's at Base Seattle today.

More than 50 Coast Guardsman and civilians were on hand at the ceremony and luncheon to witness the installment of the association's new regional president, vice president, secretary and treasurer.

Honorary guests on hand to mark the event included guest speaker, Master Chief Petty Officer Penny Koons, Petty Officer 1st Class April Storle, National Coast Guard Enlisted Association (CGEA) president and retired Coast Guard Master Chief Petty Officer Kim Brown.

Koons, Storle and Brown all spoke of the importance of the Enlisted Associations role in the lives of the Coast Guardsman. As an organization formed under the Chief Petty Officer's Association(CPOA), the Enlisted Association is to assist fellow shipmates, command and the community.

Some of the CGEA's major roles include being prepared to support members and dependents, assist the CPOA in their endeavors through responsible leadership, promote unity and positive morale, show guidance for the purpose of professional advancement and an active role in the community, aiding those in need.

Those interested in the CGEA can learn more at www.uscgcpoa.org

Above

Petty Officer 1st Class April Storle administers the oath of office to the newest Emerald City Chapter CGEA officers

Pictured from left to right

Petty Officer 1st Class Rachael Lynn, president CGEA-Emerald City Chapter, Petty Officer 1st Class Dorina Goetz, vice president CGEA-ECC, Petty Officer 2nd Class Cecille Sanders, secretary CGEA-ECC, Petty Officer 1st Class Geoffrey Gatewood, treasurer CGEA-ECC, Petty Officer 1st Class David Moeller, outgoing CGEA-ECC president, Petty Officer 2nd Class Kari Brubaker, outgoing CGEA-ECC secretary, Master Chief Petty Officer Penny Koons, guest speaker, Petty Officer 1st Class April Storle, national CGEA president and Master Chief Petty Officer (Ret) Kim Brown, former Command Master Chief for District 13.

Operation Paddle Smart

Tue, 11 May 2010 18:06:02 -0500

We’re off the ground and running with Operation Paddle Smart, a campaign initiated by CG Pacific Area (District 11). Remember when I mentioned a few posts ago that we would have some stickers for small water crafts available? Well, they’re here and you need to get your hands on one (or a few, depending on need) for your paddle craft.
The sticker is a small, reflective orange waterproof rectangle that provides space for the owner’s name and two phone numbers. (Don’t forget to write with a waterproof permanent marker!) In situations where a craft is found without its paddler, the Coast Guard can quickly identify who to contact and determine whether they have an emergency rescue situation on their hands. This greatly reduces the number of resources that the Coast Guard spends on search and rescue cases (ones that often turn out not to be), meaning that their time and money will be better spent on actual emergencies, freeing them to save lives that are in danger instead of tracking down a paddler who simply lost a craft.
The sticker "will significantly reduce the amount of time it takes to confirm overdue, if a boat is adrift, or if it is a SAR (Search and Rescue) case. Ninety percent of the time if a kayak is adrift, someone isn't attached," says Master Chief Petty Officer Whitson who works on search and rescue cases in the command center overseeing Coast Guard operations in the Pacific Northwest.
"If we can't call a person up and see if their kayak is just drifting, it turns into a SAR case. As soon as that happens, the helicopter goes up. Just getting the helicopter up and moving costs seven-thousand dollars. This sticker can save thousands of dollars."
It also saves the Coast Guard valuable time. "There's a huge time delay if that sticker isn't on a boat. This sticker is one of the best things that's been done."
So go out, get your sticker, and put it on your boat! And while you're at it, take a picture and share it with us. You can send your photos to d13ipa@uscg.mil and check back to see your photo posted on one of our sites.

Paddle Smart Brochure: http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=784965
Paddle Smart Sticker: http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=785212

YOUTUBE Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jngOwH32xYQ

Public Service Announcement: http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=742089

Paddle Smart on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Paddle-Smart-Identification-Stickers/316164896505

Farewell Quarter-Century Guardian

Fri, 07 May 2010 20:01:16 -0500

After 25 years of service to his country and the Coast Guard, Senior Chief Petty Officer Kevin Kirkpatrick retired from service today at the Jackson Federal Building in Seattle.

Kirkpatrick's career began in 1985, and upon graduating from Coast Guard basic training he reported to his first assignment aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Polar Sea.

While in Seattle during his first tour he met his wife of 22 years, Patti.

The two continued there journey together and transferred to Group Monterey, Calif., followed by two tours in Oregon; first aboard the Cutter Iris, homeported in Astoria, Ore., and a tour at Station Siuslaw River in Florence, Ore.

The adventure continued and lead Kirkpatrick and family to Kodiak, Alaska, where he served aboard the Cutter Storis and later shifted his career path as a machinery technician to an assignment as Equal Opportunity Advisor.

Following his tours in Alaska he went to District Eight where he continued serving as an Equal Opportunity Advisor and later served the Coast Guard Civil Rights program in St. Louis, Mo., and concludes his career in the same fashion here at District 13.

Today, Kirkpatrick was awarded a Coast Guard Commendation Medal for his many accomplishments while stationed here in District 13. His awards include and are not limited to an Antarctic Service Medal, seven Good Conduct Medals, two Humanitarian Service Medals, two Achievement Medals, and several Letters of Commendation.

Kirkpatrick's sound advice, service and dedication to excellence will be missed throughout the Coast Guard and we wish him and his family the very best in the coming years.

Guardian of the Week: Larry M. Kellis

Fri, 07 May 2010 15:49:28 -0500

Larry M. Kellis a dedicated Coast Guard Flotilla No. 62 Auxiliary member, was appointed to the rank of Honorary Chief in the U.S. Coast Guard at a gathering of the Astoria Area Consolidated Chief’s Mess Friday, Apr. 23, 2010.

Kellis, a retired Air Force Master Sergeant, has been active in the Coast Guard Auxiliary since 1998. He has been an active member of the Lower Columbia Chapter of the Chief Petty Officer Association since 2008. The public affairs chairman for the group, Kellis attends every meeting and provides active support of all chapter functions.

Since 2008, Kellis has photographed retirements, parades, graduating classes at the National Motor Life Boat School, memorial services, advancements, award ceremonies, re-enlistments, Changes of Command, meetings and other memorable events.

In the past two years, Kellis photographed over 177 separate events for Group Astoria, Air Station Astoria, Station Cape Disappointment, National Motor Lifeboat School, Station Tillamook, Cutter Alert, Cutter Steadfast, and Cutter Fir.

We appreciate his efforts and congratulate him on this great honor.

Thanks Chief Kellis!

Celebration of Public Service

Thu, 06 May 2010 00:26:42 -0500

Today, the Seattle Federal Executive Board honored public servants from the many federal government agencies here in the Pacific Northwest for their service to the U.S. at the Jackson Federal Building here.

On hand as a guest speaker was J.R. Celski, 2010 Team USA Olympic Speed Skater and winner of two bronze medals in the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Celski spoke about his inspiring comeback from a near death skating accident five months prior to the Winter Olympics and related it to the dedication individuals need to overcome major obstacles and make a difference.

Among the six individual Coast Guard recipients were Cmdr. Michael Billeadeaux, Chief Warrant Officer Edwin Martin, Chris Nourse, AnnMarie Rochelle, Petty Officer 1st Class Theresa Roldan, Ionatana Veena.

Among the Coast Guard units recipients were Station Seattle, Base Support - Food Services Branch, Base Support Unit - Procurement and Contracting Division, District 13 Public Affairs Staff, Regional Examination Center, Seattle Logistics Center, Sector Seattle Fishing Vessel Safety, Branch Team Marina Surge - Operation Podium and and Vessel Traffic Service Puget Sound Watchstanders.

Congratualtions to all of the Coast Guard recipients from the Pacific Northwest. As echoed throughout the ceremony, your dedicated service services the lives of some many throughout the region and country.

Congratualtions to all of the other federal employees and agencies recognized as 2010 honorees during today's event!

To include members from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Consumer Product and Safety Commission, Defense Contact Management Agency, Navy Region Northwest, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility, Naval Station Everett, Dept. of Education, Environmental protection Agency, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, General Services Administration, Dept. of Health and Human Services, and U.S. Citzenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Federal Air Marshal Service, Federal Emergency Managment Agency, Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Geological Survey Washington Water Science Center, Dept. of Labor, National Archives and Records Administration, Postal Inspection Service, Seattle Federal Executive Board, Small Business Administration, Social Security Administration, Seattle Passport Agency, Federal Aviation Administration, Federal Transit Administration, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Probation Office, Dept. of Veteran Affairs, Puget Sound Health Care System and Veterans Affairs Regional Office.

Notes from the District: Deepwater Horizon Response Update

Wed, 05 May 2010 03:32:21 -0500

Everyone’s heard about it and everyone wants to know: what’s happening with the response to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico? I’ll give you the very latest, but you’ll have to check out the links at the end of the post to stay updated and read about the newest updates.

Response crews are doing everything possible to slow and eliminate the dispersement of the oil. 200 vessels are already onsite, but there are remotely operated vehicles and aircraft also responding to the spill. In addition to those already trained for this kind of job, they’re using volunteers – 2,000 of them have been trained to date, including local fishermen with boats. New techniques are being introduced to break up the oil sooner. The way they do this is pretty interesting: they’re using an underwater vehicle to dispense sub-surface dispersant, at a rate of nine gallons per minute. About 3,000 gallons of subsea dispersants have been used effectively so far, while BP and NOAA evaluate the reality of continued use.

Along with working directly on the oil, response crews have set up staging areas along the coast to protect the shoreline. These are located in Biloxi, Miss., Pensacola, Fla., Pascagoula, Miss., Dauphin Island, Ala., Port Sulphur, La., Shell Beach, La., Slidell, La., Port Fourchon, La. and Venice, La. They are doing everything possible to make sure the oil spill affects as little as possible.

And, of course, there’s concern about those who are working directly with the oil spill. Experienced hazardous material experts went to Louisiana with Dr. David Michaels, the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, to make sure that volunteers and workers are receiving the training and materials necessary to keep them safe.

Members of President Obama’s administration have been sent to the Gulf to oversee the response efforts and to discuss economic impacts. Other members met with BP’s CEO, American Chairman, and president of the company to discuss ongoing response efforts. You can rest assured that President Obama and his administration are putting a priority on the Gulf oil spill.
So that’s the “gist” of the latest.

For detailed and up-to-date information, check the Deepwater
Horizon Response website at http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/

Follow all the details from Coast Guard District 8 at the links below.
Blog: http://uscgdistrict8.blogspot.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1788348126

Twitter: http://twitter.com/USCGD8

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/USCGD8

Important phone numbers:

Joint information center: (985) 902-5231 or (985) 902-5240

Volunteer/report oiled shoreline: 1-866-448-5816

Report oiled wildlife: 1-866-557-1401 (messages are checked hourly)

BP Helpline: 1-800-440-0858 (file claims or report spill-related damage)

Submit alternative response technology, services or products: (281) 366-5511

Submit your vessel as a vessel of opportunity skimming system: (281) 366-5511

Post written by Loreanne Switzer

SWEET: T = Training

Sun, 02 May 2010 02:38:12 -0500

Today is Opening Day of the boating season in the Pacific Northwest which brings us to the fifth of our SWEET posts... on training.

S - SAFETY on Tuesday
W - WEATHER on Wednesday
E - EQUIPMENT on Thursday
E - ENVIRONMENT on Friday
T - TRAINING - Today

No matter how long we've been boating we all have things to learn. I'm a lifelong boater with thousands of miles of sea time, a boating safety educator and Coast Guard Auxiliary coxswain and I learn new things about boating all the time. Some of this learning is simply due to new experience but some of it is due to advances in understanding.

As responsible skippers we should strive to do two things. First, continue our own education and learn about changes in boating knowledge (and our understanding does change). Second, we need to educate everyone who boards our vessels as guests or crew.

Boating education for skippers

The Auxiliary, the US Power Squadron, local law enforcement, yacht clubs and commercial boating educators provide a wide range of boating education on general and advanced topics. Whatever your level of boating education please consider advanced training. The USCG Auxiliary and US Power Squadrons provide additional training for members not otherwise available to the public on advanced topics. An online search will yield many opportunities.

Skippers role in educating crew and passengers

We often do not, and should not, boat alone. As masters of a vessel we have many responsibilities. A key responsibility is to those we bring onto our vessels. One of the downsides of being a Guardian is that I have seen the results when things go very badly wrong for fellow boaters.

The first step is to assure you have crew, people who can be of assistance in normal situations and when things go wrong. Personally I like to assure I have someone aboard who can navigate and return the boat to a safe harbor should I become incapacitated. If you boat primarily with your spouse please assure they can manage the vessel.

01MAY2010 - Father Neptune and Captain Myer, Commander Sector Portland, Celebrate Opening Day on the Columbia at RCYC. Photo AUX Daren Lewis USCG Photo

The second step is to assure your passengers know the basics of boating safety. Ideally they should be wearing life jackets, know how to summon help on the radio, and be briefed to hold on and let you know where they are at all times. Particular attention must be paid to children.

Remember, you can't have a good day on the water unless everyone gets home safe.

Have a great 2010 boating season. All of us in Coast Guard District 13 look forward to seeing you out there.

SWEET: Paying attention to the Environment in which you boat

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 22:05:36 -0500

In our fourth day of boating safety "SWEET" posts in the run up to the start of the boating season we are discussing factors related to awareness of the environment.

S - SAFETY on Tuesday (link)
W - WEATHER on Wednesday (link)
E - EQUIPMENT on Thursday (link)
E - ENVIRONMENT - Today!
T - TRAINING

There are two contexts in which we consider the environment, the awareness of our surroundings which may put us into danger and our actions which may damage the marine environment where we boat.

In our Coast Guard operations we train to maintain situational awareness - looking at many factors including changes in weather, sea conditions, other vessel traffic, and the condition of our shipmates. These are serious considerations for any mariner and some may have even greater impact because you are on a smaller vessel.

Changes in weather and sea state
On Wednesday Chief Roskowski discussed checking the weather before you get underway. It is just as important to monitor the weather and sea state visually and electronically once you are out on the water. The weather can change rapidly in the Northwest - a beautiful calm day can quickly turn nasty. While a weather radio is a great tool you are far more likely to notice a problem by just looking at the conditions.

Fifteen signs of deteriorating weather from the USCG Boat Crew Seamanship Manual (12.A.18)

- Clouds lowering and thickening.

- Puffy clouds beginning to develop vertically and darkening.

- Clouds increasing in numbers, moving rapidly across sky.

- Clouds moving in different directions at different heights.

- Clouds moving from east or northeast toward the south.

- Western sky dark and threatening.

- A red sky in morning.

- Heavy rains occurring at night.

- Temperatures far above or below normal for time of year.

-Wind shifting north to east and possibly through east to south.

- Barometer falling steadily or rapidly.

- A ring (halo) around the moon.

- Smoke from building stacks lowering.

- Static on AM radio.

Darkness
Operating in the dark, particularly when you do not plan to do so and are not properly equipped, significantly increases your risk. Often operation in darkness can be inadvertent, you start your return too late, some member of your party is late returning, or you've suffered a mechanical problem. Even if you plan to be home before sunset please assure you are ready should your return be delayed. Make sure your navigation lights are operable and keep a particularly sharp lookout.

Maintaining a proper lookout
The Navigation Rules, our rules of the road on the water, require all vessels underway to maintain a proper lookout.

Navigation Rule 5: "Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision."

If you are the owner you will want to assure that anyone operating your boat or assisting in operating your boat understands what to look for and has an understanding of the basic navigation rules. A lookout or operator unfamiliar with the rules can be very dangerous. What should a lookout be watching for? While this list is not exhaustive it is a place to start

All traffic which may pose a danger of collision particularly vessels which are not operating according to the navigation rules
Sail boats under sail only if you are in a power boat
Large commercial vessels
Passenger vessels or Navy vessels (as discussed in the following section)
Watch the "Danger Zone" which extends from dead ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam. This is the arc of your green sidelight and most vessels approaching from this area will be privledged and expecting you to maneuver out of the way.
Debris in the water which may damage your vessel or your
Aids to navigation which often indicate safe water

Vessel Traffic Zones, Specified Commercial Vessels, Ferries, and Naval Vessels

In Puget Sound observe the vessel traffic zones and stay clear of large commercial ships, tugs and barges.

Due to the large number of Navy facilities in the Puget Sound region, the Coast Guard is advising boaters to operate cautiously within the vicinity of naval vessels. Boats must not approach within 100 yards of any U.S. Naval vessel, passenger vessel over 100 feet in length (including ferries), or tank vessels, unless they have received permission to do so from the ships captain, or from any official escort/patrol vessel that may be present. Boaters must also operate their vessels at minimum speed within 500 yards of those vessels. Violators face up to six years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Boating Green
There many ways in which recreational boaters can act to preserve the marine environment in which we boat.

Trash: There are strict regulations of what can go over the side. The best rule is nothing goes over the side - haul all your garbage back to shore, dispose of it properly, and recycle as appropriate.

Oil/Fuel: Discharge of oil, fuel or any oily wastes is strictly prohibited. Particular care should be taken when fueling to avoid inadvertent fuel spills. If you see a spill or an oil sheen while underway please help us by reporting it to the Coast Guard immediately. If it is a major spill your report may be the first report which allows us to manage the spill.

Be Whale Wise: We are lucky to have spectacular marine mammals in the Pacific Northwest. These creatures are protected by federal laws which are designed to minimize disruption of natural behaviors. Be Whale Wise tells us:

"When we get too close, approach too fast, or make too much noise, we may be disrupting these activities and causing the animals unnecessary stress. In some cases, we may be threatening their lives."

Visit Be Whale Wise for guidance on viewing marine mammals. Please learn the rules.

Getting home is SWEET..."E"quipment to make it happen

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 21:55:02 -0500

Over the past few days the team here in District 13 has been introducing "SWEET" ahead of the opening of boating season on Saturday. SWEET is designed to remind you of some critical items when planning your voyages this season and stands for:

S - SAFETY on Tuesday (link)
W - WEATHER on Wednesday (link)
E - EQUIPMENT - Today!
E - ENVIRONMENT
T - TRAINING

Our first "E" is equipment. As boaters many of us are gear obsessed, but that does not mean we have the critical items aboard to improve our chances of getting home safely. The items you are required to have aboard are defined by the type of boat you operate, your State, the length of your boat, and if you operate only inland or also operate in coastal waters. The best first stop for this information is the printed or online handbook for your State.

Idaho: Web version PDF version

Oregon: PDF version

Montana: Web version PDF version

Washington: Web version PDF version

Vessel Safety Checks
The required and recommended equipment list can be somewhat overwhelming. To assist the Coast Guard Auxiliary and our boating safety partners the U.S. Power Squadrons provide free Vessel Safety Checks to assist you in determining if you have both the required and recommended safety equipment for your boat. Boats passing the inspection receive a decal.

To get a Vessel Safety Check start here, contact your local USCG Auxiliary or USPS unit, or ask any member of the Auxiliary you see while out boating - many of us are qualified examiners and carry our exam materials with us.

VHF-FM Marine Radios
One item which is recommended but not required may surprise you - your VHF-FM handheld or fixed mount marine radio. We strongly recommend every boater carry a marine radio and know how to use it. Cell phone coverage is spotty or non-existent in many areas and phones are not waterproof.

Being able to call the Coast Guard and your fellow boaters when you have a minor problem can prevent your situation from deteriorating. In a distress, when you are in real trouble, a marine radio is often the quickest and most reliable way to get help fast. It can save your life.

Maintenance
Keeping a boat seaworthy can be challenging in salt water, fresh water, or even stored ashore. Attention to the recommended maintenance of your hull, propulsion, and equipment is critical. It is not uncommon for us respond to distress cases that are the result of a simple piece of equipment which has been poorly maintained.

Wear it!
PA3 Molle reminded us in the "S" post but it bears repeating. The most important equipment on your boat is a life jacket, actually being worn, for everyone aboard.

This safety message brought to you by the letter "W"

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 20:30:31 -0500

Yesterday we introduced you to our new boating safety campaign, "Have a SWEET time on the water." SWEET being an acronym for Safety, Weather, Equipment, Environment and Training. In Tuesday's post Tara went over Safety, today I will look at the "W" for weather.

Weather can be the biggest asset and the worst enemy for boating safety. A sunny clear day can quickly turn nasty for an unprepared person in the water and the partly cloudy day can turn to a storm in an instant.

As a boater the first thing you should do is check the boating weather forecasts through NOAA and your local media. This will give you an idea as to what the day is expected to turn into. Check for small-craft advisories and if weather fronts are approaching your area. Don't let the weather overtake you and the level of your boating experience.

Additionally, you need to check the water temperatures as a warm sunny day can easily hide cold water temperatures. As a boater you should always dress for the water and not the weather. Ending-up in the water in a t-shirt and shorts is a deadly situation in the Pacific Northwest. Water temperatures rarely exceed an average of 60 degrees year-round and falling in can mean hypothermia.

Hypothermia will rob you of the strength you need to survive.

Remember, when you're boating be weather-wise and you'll always have fair-winds and following seas.

Who knew SWEETs could save your life?

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 22:24:46 -0500

I don't know about you but I am a huge sucker for sweets and I have a sweet tooth. Unfotunately, if you gorge too much on sweets they can be killer!

I'm so dramatic.

But I have a secret for you and know a sweet that won't kill you, in fact it might just save your life! There's a catch though (there's always a catch), this isn't a sweet you can eat.

Out with it Tara! What are you even talking about? I'll fill you in:

S - SAFETY
W - WEATHER
E - EQUIPMENT
E - ENVIRONMENT
T - TRAINING

Now you are nodding and saying, 'Ohhhhhhh, I get it now.' Good! Allow me to elaborate a little bit more for you.

Your friendly Thirteenth Coast Guard Public Affairs Office...more specifically Chief Roszkowski and Lt. Bronson came up with this clever acryonym for this year's opening of boating season.

So today and up 'till Saturday, which, dun dun DUN, is the opening of boating season, I will be explaining each letter with a little more detail.

Today's letter kids is 'S' for Safety! What can YOU do to be safe on the water?

* Don't drink and boat
* Wear a life jacket
* Ensure your equipment if labeled with the proper contact information. Click here for more information.

I will post more tomorrow but for now, I leave you with our press release on 'SWEET.' I guess you can cheat now and read ahead...it's okay though, this is the only time I will allow it.

http://www.d13publicaffairs.com/go/doc/21/531991/

Dang. Now I am craving candy.

-PA3 Molle

Earth Day event a success in Astoria

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 21:23:17 -0500

Over 100 volunteers in Astoria, Ore., planted 120 trees around the city on Thursday, April 22.

The event marked several noteworthy occasions in a single celebration - Astoria's upcoming bicentennial, Pacific Power's 100th birthday and of course, Earth Day.

Coast Guard volunteers from Group Astoria teamed up with Tongue Point Job Corps Center landscaping students, local school children, Boy and Girl Scout troops, teachers, and community leaders to plant crabapple, cherry, maple, ginko and other ornamental tree varieties.

Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Mark Seal, a gunner's
mate at Air Station Astoria, Ore., digs a hole for a tree
planting at Lewis and Clark Elementary School in Warrenton, Ore., Apr. 22, 2010.

His wife Kira Seal and daughter Jovie Seal also participated in the event.

Guardian of the Week: Tammy Hayes

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 23:42:18 -0500

Coast Guard civilian employee Tammy Hayes, a dental hygienist at Air Station Astoria, Ore., has been volunteering at Warrenton, Ore. Grade School where she provides dental hygiene education to children of all ages.

Hayes recently received a grant from the Warrenton Rotary Club which has helped fund toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss for the students.

Hayes is also an active member of the Coast Guard Spouses Association.

Known for her personable demeanor and professionalism, Hayes makes a difference here at Air Station Astoria. On behalf of D13, we thank her for her efforts.

Lights, camera ...

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 06:02:33 -0500

Action! We've been doing a lot of filming here in the Pacific Northwest lately. Our office has been deployed on the Coast Guard Cutter Barque Eagle (click here to see the teaser podcast) we filmed aboard the Washington State Ferry System and recently fin

It's here!

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 06:02:33 -0500

It's finally here! After some redesign and some self training we've got the latest Pacific Northwest Coast Guard Podcast up and running. This episode the PA staff brings you...

Coming soon ...

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 06:02:33 -0500

Things have been busy around here for the last few weeks. As such we're a little later than usual getting out episode four of the Pacific Northwest Podcast. Let me just say it's coming soon...

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