FORWARD THE QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF DIVISION 4

Official Publication USCG Auxiliary Division 4 First District SR

District 1SR Division 4 VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2 2nd Quarter 2015

Features Page Commanders Message 1-2 Vice Commanders Message 3-4 Division Bridge 5 Seamanship Quiz 6 Flotilla Commanders Reports 7-9 Seamanship Quiz Answers 10 Staff Officers Reports 11-15 Division Photos 16 Breaking News at Station NY 17 See a Spout, Watch Out 18-20 Sandy Hook Light House 21-22 CG History 23-24 Division Website & Disclaimer 25-27 Commander’s Message Greetings! Safe boating week kicked off with the flotillas performing various activities. Events planned by flotillas were vessel exams at Round Valley, Spruce run and Raritan Bay marinas Congratulations to Robert B. Hille SO-SR who was sworn in by the Chief /Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court as the First Vice President of the New Jersey State Bar Association and is in line to become its President in May of 2017.

1 Division 4 Fellowship Breakfast was held in April at the Raritan Yacht Club. 30 auxiliarists attended. The Yacht club presented an excellent breakfast that was enjoyed by all. Judy Demaio created a game based on the popular Jeopardy and featured different categories pertaining to Marine Safety and Environmental Protection. The featured speaker was Paul Sieswerda founder of Gotham Whale group based in Staten Island. This group tracks and identifies whales that are returning to the Raritan Bay / Sandy Hook area. The much cleaner waters along with the increased abundance of food are attracting the whales. To date 17 different whales have been identified by the markings on their tail flukes, and research is continuing to identify more.

Fleet Week was attended by members of the division, conducting tours on the various Coast Guard ships that were in the area. Members of the Division conducted tours on the Sturgeon Bay and Spencer in Staten Island and manned a information table at the Intrepid in New York.

On that note, for Safe Boating Week, our own Division Vice Commander Valerie Ramsberger was present with Al Roker, Bill Walsh Commander Station New York and Harry, the U.S.C.G Station NY Mascot, on Wake Up with Al demonstrating proper use of life jackets.

Two members of 014-04-08 Doug Janelle and Frank Catena are spearheading Division 4’s attempt to get the pilot program to educate new auxiliary members underway. With 24 members in either AP or IQ the ultimate goal is to get these members to BQ status. It is hoped that this new program will give these new auxiliarists a better insight into the workings of the auxiliary and will then encourage them to grow and participate fully in the activities offered.

Now that the 2015 boating season is here, and the waver has been signed, Division 4, with the help of Mike Rebeck and George Reilly stepped up to get our Crew and Coxswain members ready with inspected gear according to the new mandate by the Coast Guard that is requiring ALL members to conform to the Rescue and Survival Systems document. This has been an extraordinary challenge that required their persistence to help us get on the water safely.

We held our first Information Gathering meeting at our June Division meeting. District members present were Commander Moose DIRAUX, Alex Malewsky DCO District 1SR, and DCOS Gus Formato. Over 30 members were in attendance to hear our District Bridge answer questions on many subjects that included Core Values, Operations and Member Retention. This was an exciting evening and all came out of the meeting with a renewed sense of volunteerism.

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Vice Commander’s Message

Division 4 Staff Officers worked very hard during the 2nd Quarter, stepping up to the plate to implement a variety of initiatives. Keeping in mind our primary responsibility for Recreational Boating Safety (RBS), vessel exams and program visits were completed. About Boating Safely public education classes were provided. National Safe Boating week was observed with a variety of activities including Division presence at boating venues and township proclamations. I was privileged to appear again this year on the “Wake up with Al” show with Station NY’s LCDR William Walsh and Station mascot, newly promoted “Chief” Harry who helped model pet life vests. Flotilla 44 took the lead in many initiatives including a Memorial Day Observance Ceremony in Sewaren.

Division meetings continue to bring communications to the forefront. Several members completed the TCO course. Thanks to Mike Rebeck, SO- CS, our inaugural edition of our newsletter went to press in keeping with our goal to enhance Division-wide communication about our activities and stories of interest. In addition, completion of the Member Skills Bank was stressed as a mechanism to communicate our personnel resources to the Coast Guard.

Coast Guard Operations were supported by Division members participating in Fleet Week activities at the Intrepid in New York and by assisting with ship tours on the 2 Coast Guard cutters moored at the USS Sullivans Pier, Staten Island Homeport – the icebreaker, USCG cutter STURGEON BAY (WTGB 109) and WMEC – USS SPENCER: 905

George Reilly SO-OP spearheaded the implementation of the Rescue and Survival Systems Manual 2014 guidelines to insure that all Crew and Coxswains’ equipment is up to current standards to insure their safety and compliance with the Gold side. He has been assisted by newly appointed Flotilla Safety Officers. A new SO-IM has been appointed to insure that we are ready to participate when needed in disaster situations.

In keeping with the District goals, our HR officers have been diligently working to recruit new members. Joined by the SO-IS and SO-MT work has begun on collaborating to insure new members are offered the Aux-PAL program

3 Fellowship and Marine Safety combined at our Division breakfast and Communication with DIRAUX and EXCOM were fostered at our recent “All Hands.”

I am looking forward to keeping up the momentum and team work in the second half of 2015. Thanks to all who have worked so hard to get us off to a great start!!

4 2015 Division 4 Bridge

Jim Dry, Division Commander DCDR Valerie Ramsberger, Division Vice Commander VCDR David Ten Broeck, Immediate Past Division Commander IPDCDR

2015 Flotilla Leadership

Flotilla 4–2 This flotilla operates out of Dehart Community Center Burnett Ave. Maplewood, NJ 07040. The business meetings are the 3rd Tuesday of month at 2000. Pat Fiumara, Flotilla Commander 4-2 Mike Greenstein, Flotilla Vice Commander 4-2

Flotilla 4–3 This flotilla operates out of Franklin Park Fire House Claremont Rd. Franklin Park, NJ. The business meetings are the 4th Thursday of month at 1930. Mike Kushwarra, Flotilla Commander 4-3 Ken Cadette, Flotilla Vice Commander 4-3

Flotilla 4–4 This flotilla operates out of Aux Station Sewaren, Cliff Rd. Sewaren, NJ. The business meetings are the 3rd Thursday of month at 1930. John Eberhardt, Flotilla Commander 4-4 Sal Ruggiero, Flotilla Vice Commander 4-4

Flotilla 4–5 This flotilla operates out of Raritan Boat Club Player Ave. Edison, NJ. The business meetings are the 3rd Wednesday of month at 1930. John Abreu, Flotilla Commander 4-5 Tom Botsolas, Flotilla Vice Commander 4-5

Flotilla 4–8 This flotilla operates out of Somerset County Emergency Services Training Academy Roycefield Rd. Hillsborough, NJ. The business meetings are the 3rd Monday of month at 1930. Gary Zdan, Flotilla Commander 4-8 Joe Clapcich, Flotilla Vice Commander 4-8

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(Answers on page 10)

1. You see a vessel on your starboard side, constant bearing decreasing range. You should take what action? A. Maintain course and speed B. Increase speed and pass ahead C. Avoid crossing ahead D. Wait to see if the other vessel takes action

2. Which one of the following is an approved distress signal during the day?

A. White flag on the flag staff B. Orange smoke C. Rapid firing of a starter pistol D. Orange PFD on the end of a paddle

3. Entering a harbor at night, you see single, white all around lights on anchored vessels. They are what length?

A. Less than 20 meters B. Less than 50 meters C. Less than 75 meters D. Less than 100 meters

4. The term “slack water” when referring to tides is the time when there is?

A. No horizontal water movement B. No vertical water movement C. No water movement at all D. A balance of tide and wave movement

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4-2 by Pat Fiumara, FC Pat MacWalters attended a meeting and instruction at USCG Academy (Academy Partners)

Seven - 42 members attended Division Breakfast

Both facility owners attended the Ops meeting on April 18 at SecNY

Flotilla members asked to serve on Division Committees

Proclamation received from Town of Union for Safe Boating Week

Report that Donna Cole conducted operational table top exercise D1 Hurricane Zoey

TCT refresher training (one hour) given by V. Ramsberger

New rules for PPE all crew must have PEPIRP and inspected equipment

Flotilla 42 gave an ABS Course on April 14th & 15th – 8 students passed

Discussed No patrol when smallcraft warning for boats under 65 feet.

P. MacWalters represented CG Academy at West Essex & Bloomfield HS

S. Krok conducted 26 comms missions year to date

VE 16 Exams year to date - RBS-PV 124 Visits year to date

$100 donation to Coast Guard Association

Facilities should be inspected ASAP

Members informed that CG Cutter Eagle will be in NY June and August

Congratulations to 42's new member Mark Miceli ; one new member application submitted

V. Ramsberger participated in the "Wake Up with Al" show reviewing the importance of life jackets

Marine Safety training (one hour) given by V. Ramsberger

Facility Sea Mist and facility Obsession in the water and ready for orders

7 4-3 by Mike Kushwarra, FC Discussions in regards to Vessel Examinations, and possible PA events continued. Emphasis continues to proceed on ways to recruit new members and retain interest of current. One prosepective new member that was identified through the National Web site has had a number of schedule conflicts prohibiting advancement of his process.

4-4 by John Eberhardt, FC Training has been going full force for the Flotilla. Sal Ruggiero concluded our AUXSEA class with 100% of the students passing. Mike Rebeck has been continuing the Boat Crew training and is now ready to take his students out for lessons on the water. Mike has altering the days of the patrols to better suit the trainees. Our March ABS class was a success with nineteen (19) students in attendance. Thank you to FSOs Jim Crincoli and Dave Ten Broeck for organizing the class. Several members of the Flotilla got together for a work party and cleaned up the Sewaren Station. In May the Flotilla headed to a nearby marina and completed over thirty (30) vessel exams with a force of seven (7) members checking boats. Also in May the Flotilla met at the Woodbridge Township Municipal Boat Launch to host their annual Memorial Day Service for all of it’s members who are now navigating heavenly seas. The event was followed by a Fellowship breakfast at the Reo Diner. John Eberhardt and George Reilly met with Woodbridge Township for their annual Fourth of July Fireworks. The last quarter was a busy time and with the boating season going into full swing, this next quarter should prove to be even busier.

4-5 by John Abreu, FC In summary the brunt of our efforts has been to get everybody to complete the mandatory course requirements, and this week we actually had our newest member Chris Villani complete all required courses in one day.

We held a VE Station at Atlantic Highlands municipal Marina and I also represented the Auxiliary at the 2015 Commissioning Ceremony at the Atlantis Yacht Club in Monmouth Beach.

Recently we also had two notable service awards given to Kevin Redden for 15 years of service and Rich Bellows for 25 years of service.

4-8 by Gary Zdan, FC Spoke with Training Supervisor at Somerset County Training Center regarding offering a boating safety course. Request must originate from a Fire Dept to the Director of the Training Center. Working with a FireChief who has solicited several fire companies for interest.

• Potential ABS course offering at Raritan Township Municipal Office through the Hunterdon County Chamber Of Commerce contact is pending.

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• Participated in Division/Flotilla aux nets.

• Membership Status as of end of April, 2015

• Members in AP status = 2 ( Moore, Walker )

• Members in IQ status = 4

• Members in BQ status = 27

• Members in AX status = 2

• TOTAL Membership = 35 Monthly changes: 0 YTD Change: - 4

• New AP: None

• Promoted from AP: None

• New Certifications: +1 new TCO (Telecommunications Operator) Jim Dry

• Transfers: none

• Disenrollment’s: None

• General Information

• New Member Prospects currently being worked: 2 (Ginter, Cefalo) – No change

• Average time to get out of AP status is 11.5 months (some are taking over a year)

• Problems, concerns, issues, and recommendations:

• We have 20 members (57%) with NO competencies listed, some of these are there only because they are in REYR status

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1. The correct answer is C, Rule 15. The vessel on the starboard side is the stand-on vessel and must maintain course and speed. You are the give-way vessel and, “...shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.”

www.boaterexam.com

2. Correct answer is B, Annex IV. Orange smoke is a distress signal under the Rules during the day, a white flag is not. Firing of a gun should be done at intervals of about one minute. An orange PFD on the end of a paddle might draw attention, but it is not a recognized distress signal.

3. Correct answer is B, Rule 30 (b) “A vessel of less than 50 meters in length may exhibit an all-round white light where it can best be seen in- stead of the lights prescribed in paragraph (a)”; which are a white all- round fore and aft with the aft light lower than the fore light. A vessel over 100 meters shall also show lights to illuminate her decks.

www.navcent.uscg.gov

4. Correct answer is A. Slack water means there is no observable horizontal movement of the water. Tidal stand means there is no observable vertical movement of the water.

See www.lobstermanspage.net/tides/current

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SO-CM—Communications - John Raab

The Division 4 Communications Department and Radio Team continues to support fully and participate with the our shipmates and neighbors to the south in Division 2 and their monthly nets on the 3rd Monday of the month at 20:00 hours under the direction of Mr. SO-CM. Personal communication continues between myself and John to find ways to work more closely together in support of Net Operations. All Division 4 Stations are encouraged to join with Division 2 with their Nets and show our total support and unity.

With the beginning of Surface Operations and Patrols the Division 4 Communications Department has also begun on a limited basis to hold Radio Guard with our Surface Vessels on patrol. We look forward to the expansion of this service in the near future. The practice of holding radio guard and monitoring all marine traffic has many benefits and will not only assist and aid our surface vessels on patrol but will allow our Radio Stations to gain valuable experience as well as being an asset to Sector Communications during peak boating times. All Stations desiring to join this effort and to hold this Radio Guard please contact me personally and all that is required to prepare you for this service will be offered.

Of special note our ADSO-CM Mr. Andy Ely has now been appointed by the District Bridge to the DSO-CM position. All here at Division 4 offer our sincere congratulations to Andy and await to enjoy further the benefits of his outstanding leadership which he has shown for the years he has been fully engaged in District Communications. Bravo Zulu Andy. This office continues to hold and maintain a very close working relationship with Andy and the benefits which we have enjoyed with his leadership and vast experience over the years which can not be overstated, this especially includes myself.

The Communications Department is happy to report that education and training in Communications and Radio has been a great success thus far and is still ongoing with many students achieving their AUXCOM and TCO Certifications. For AUXCOM 10 students have successfully completed the course and 6 students for TCO. A few remain and will be brought through the instruction also. Following both classes a few students have expressed an interest in becoming USCG Watchstanders, their interest is commended and has been forwarded for consideration.

In closing I would like to thank all for their service and support especially to our Radio Team and Communication Officers who without you Division 4 Communications would not operate at the high level we know. Also sincere thanks to the Division 4 Bridge, Jim Dry and Valerie Ramsberger for all their support to the Communication Department and for myself.

SO-CS—Communications Services – Mike Rebeck Quarterly Report Summary: • Updated the Division Website as needed • Continue to update the Division website to support Division activities

11 SO-DV—Diversity – Mike Kushwarra No Report

SO-HR—Human Resources – Jim Dry There are currently 128 members in Division 4. One new member 4-5 Christopher Villano

Anniversaries: Kevin Reddin – 4-5 15 Years

John Ostapovich – 4-8 25 years

AP – IQ now up to 11.5 months

No transfers

No Disenrollments

SO-IS—Information Services - Dave TenBroeck Data submitted is up to date. Of note: we are aware that there is more activity than is being reported to date. Please help by submitting your 7029 and other time (i.e. 7030) forms to your FSO-IS monthly.

SO-MT—Member Training – Frank Catena Two of the five flotillas have now sent in there Mentor list.

· Secure more proctors for Division

· Boat Rodeo: Three facilities plan to participate, might re-scale event to fit current participation level. Work started on event tasks; however, at this time the event has been placed on hold while boat crew PPE issues are prioritized.

· Work with division to implement “New Member PQS”. Many e-mails have been exchanged and will need discuss the way we will proceed.

· Boat Rodeo: Event has been placed on hold until boat crew PPE issue is resolved.

SO-NS—Navigation Systems – Kevin Redden No Report SO-OP—Operations – George Reilly Operations for the 2015 season are off to a slow start and a month behind because of the PPE issue we now have one more vessel for patrols and that is in Flotilla 44, We are looking to get our patrols up to speed and get the boat crew program and on water training going again.

Division 4 will be doing safety patrols for the multiple fireworks in the Raritan bay area on 2 July with Woodbridge township shooting off of the Sewaren park area, and Perth Amboy, South Amboy and Staten Island shooting in a combined display in the Raritan bay just off of great bed’s light we will be busy.

12 We have a waiver for the PLB’s for one year but all the flotillas must have a flotilla safety officer appointed by the flotilla commander in writing that letter go to the division commander and the division operations officer. All members that are boat crew or Coxswains must comply with the new PPE requirements If your PPE is not inspected and marked with a tag by our division you will not go on patrols.

I encourage everyone to get onboard with the PPE standers and I also encourage every to get out there and do patrols, there will be a few support roles with the active duty this year and some programs that went into effect last year giving us more roles to work with the active duty side.

So let’s get on the water and do what we do best patrols and have fun as we do them.

SO-PA—Public Affairs – Gary Zdan In addition to the activities reported by the Flotilla Commanders, Flotilla 45 planned VEs at Atlantic Highlands on June 6. This information will be sent to media outlets Asbury Park Press and FM station WOLD in advance of the inspections. Flotilla 48 also planned activities for Safe Boating Week

SO-PB—Publications - Vacant Quarterly Report: Newsletter will be published and posted to the Division website after approval from DIRAUX in July 2015 Submitted by Mike Rebeck

SO-PV—Program Visitor - Vacant While this position remains vacant, Steve and Valerie Krok of 42 have reported 146 visits YTD and Charlie Reul of 48 has reported 97 YTD, bringing the reported Division total to 243!

SO-PE—Public Education – Dave TenBroeck No Public Education Classes have been scheduled for the 2nd quarter of the year.

SO-VE—Vessel Examination- Ken Stanley The Division has 24 current VE’s.

The Division has logged approximately 84 hours of VE activity this year to date.

There is a non-mandatory VE workshop for 2015 on the V Department website. While not mandatory it contains important information and should be seen by all VE’s.

DIRAUX had indicated an ongoing problem with OPFAC Inspection (7003) paperwork. The submissions contain various errors or omissions that basically create additional workload while slowing down the review/approval process. Where possible, DIRAUX attempts to correct the errors on their end, and when this can’t be done, the paperwork has to be returned to the VE for correction. All of which slows the process.

There is a fire extinguisher recall on certain Kiddie fire extinguishers.

Units with BLACK PLASTIC VALVES should be checked to verify if they are included in the recall! Kidde will replace any defective units and should be contacted directly. Contact Kidde toll-free at (855) 283-7991 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or online at www.kidde.com and click on Safety Notice for more information. The recalled extinguishers are red, white or silver and are either ABC or BC rated

13 Recall information is also available on the V-Directorate's " What's New from the DIR-V" web site http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=V-DEPT&category=dir-v-says and the Kiddie website: http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2015/Kidde-Recalls-Disposable-Plastic-Fire- Extinguishers/

In discussing this with Coast Guard Headquarters, they suggested that when conducting vessel safety checks, as a VE comes across a fire extinguisher which is on the recall list, and the extinguisher meets the standard requirements as outlined in the VSC manual, we are to indicate the equipment as acceptable on the 7012 form. When the vessel meets all the other requirements for a VSC we should issue a decal. The examiner should advise the boat owner/operator of the recall and suggest they contact Kidde immediately.

SO-MS—Marine Safety – John Paul A recent publication by the United States Fire Administration (USFA) focusing on Flame Arrestors, how and why they work. It is a useful point of interest when conducting a Vessel Safety Check or during interaction at a public education event.

Hazardous Materials: Flame Arrestors No. FP-2015-24 June 16, 2015

Learning Objective: The student will be able to explain the design and operation of a flame arrestor

Process or storage vessels and pipe systems that contain ignitable ranges of oxygen and flammable vapors are susceptible to catastrophic explosions. If the oxygen and vapor mixture is ignited by sparks, arcs, friction, compression or other heat sources, the expanding flame front may cause significant injuries and damage. One method of lessening the likelihood of a flash fire is by the installation of a flame arrestor in the equipment or on the end of a vent or process line. Flame arrestors are used in many industries, including refining, oil exploration and production, pharmaceutical, chemical, petrochemical, pulp and paper, sewage treatment, landfills, mining, power generation, and bulk liquids transportation. There are many manufacturers of simple to sophisticated flame arresting equipment. These arrestors are configured in a way that ensures that the aperture size is carefully controlled based on the flammability of the oxygen and vapor mixture. The wire mesh or gauze flame arrestor shown in the illustration is based on a principle discovered in the 19th century to reduce coal mine explosions caused by open-flame lamps in methane environments. Flame is extinguished when it passes through a sufficiently small gap in the mesh because the wire mesh absorbs the heat from the flame. Mesh flame arrestors are also found in many gasoline safety cans. Wire mesh or gauze flame arrestors should be selected only after careful engineering analysis. Mesh/Gauze coarser than 28 meshes to the linear inch (No. 28 mesh, 630 microns) is ineffective in quenching a flame, and mesh/gauze finer than 60 meshes to the linear inch (No. 60 mesh, 250 microns) is liable to become blocked by dirt, insects or other debris. The main advantages of gauzes are their low cost, ready availability, and the ease of fitting into the orifice. Their disadvantages include limited effectiveness at suppressing high-velocity flames and their propensity to damage.

14 End-of-line flame arrestors (like the one illustrated) prevent flames from entering the pipe but not from leaving the pipe. Process in-line deflagration or detonation arrestors are designed to prevent flame propagation in gas or vapor mixtures. By locating the arrestor in close proximity to the potential ignition source, any flame or explosion is confined to the immediate area. Flame arrestors are made from a range of materials, such as carbon steel and stainless steel, aluminum and zinc alloys. Not all materials are available for every arrestor range, so always check the manufacturer’s literature to match the flame arrestor to the product. For more information, consider enrolling in the National Fire Academy course “Hazardous Materials Code Enforcement” (R0615). Information and applications can be obtained at http://apps.usfa.fema.gov/nfacourses/catalog/details/10504

15 DIVISION 4 PHOTOS

US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 4-4 Memorial Day Remembrance May 25, 2015 at the Woodbridge Boat Ramp

16 BREAKING NEWS FROM U.S.C.G. STATION NEW YORK

Harry, the Stations Mascot, was promoted to Chief Petty Officer on June 3, 2015

Lt. Cmdr. Walsh presents Chief Harry with a plaque during the dog's advancement ceremony, Wednesday. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ali Flockerzi.)

Crewmembers at Coast Guard Station New York stand at attention while Chief Harry is presented with his advancement certificates and plaques, Wednesday. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ali Flockerzi.)

Chief Harry dons his newly acquired Chief anchor on his Coast Guard unit ball cap with some help from his shipmate, Wednesday. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ali Flockerz

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See A Spout, Watch Out! “There she blows!” The whaler’s shout, made famous in Moby Dick, is becoming more and more common in the waters around NY/NJ. Whales, dolphins, and seals are returning to the area in increasing numbers each year. Gotham Whale has documented this increase in humpback whales each year since 2011, with the 2014 numbers totaling more than the three previous years combined. The trend is up and the interaction with whales by the boating public is inevitable. Safety for both the boaters and the whales require good awareness and knowledge.

Not only are whales struck by boaters (link to prop scarred whale), and collisions with multi-ton animals are dangerous to humans and vessels, but boaters are subject to serious fines and penalties if proper laws are not observed. Unfortunately, many boaters are unaware that these laws exist. Ignorance of the law will be found to be a poor excuse if boating, or human compliance run afoul of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMP). With that in mind, NOAA, has partnered with the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (WDC) in a public outreach program education for public boaters, called “See a Spout, Watch Out!”

NOAA and WDC also oversee a program for commercial whale watching vessels, called Whale Sense, which certifies captains and naturalist as responsible whale watchers. While some public boaters may be aboard these commercial cruises, it is unlikely that they are aware of the rules of the road for encountering whales, or other marine mammals. The “See a spout, watch out” program is working to bring that information to the boating public.

The regulations and viewing guidelines are on the website along with links to the regulations under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. (here)

Gotham Whale is the research and education arm of the Whale Sense Certified whale watching vessel, The American Princess out of Rockaway Queens. In the last few years, whales, almost exclusively humpback whales, have been observed feeding on menhaden along the coastline from Jones Beach to Long Branch, NJ. These waters are plied with private boaters throughout the boating season. Gotham Whale is working to bring the work of NOAA and WDC to the boating public and is pleased to have the support of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The overarching principal of the Marine Mammal Protection Act is that it is illegal to interrupt any marine mammal’s natural behavior. Considered harassment, and subject to federal fines and penalties, such action can be observed and reported to the authorities. Again, ignorance of the law is no excuse. Boaters are advised to

18 familiarize themselves with the websites provided here and to review some of the important points from NOAA and WDC:

1. See ASee A Spout, Watch Out! If you see a spout, tail, or a breaching whale, please slow down and post a lookout. Some whales may dive for 20 minutes or more while searching for food. If you’ve seen one whale, many more could be close-maybe too close to your boat and its spinning propellers. Proceed cautiously! 2. Head On Is Wrong! Don’t alter a whale’s path by cutting it off. When in sight of a whale, follow official approach guidelines and adhere to existing regulations that restrict or prohibit closely approaching whales. Always keep your boat a safe distance away; don’t risk striking a whale. Federal law prohibits the harassment of all marine mammals. Federal regulations and Massachusetts law prohibit approaching the highly endangered North Atlantic right whale closer than 500 yards (1500 feet). 3. Lots of Boats, Then Talk to Folks! If there are other boats watching or traveling near whales, hail them on your VHF radio (channel 9, 13 or 16 for hailing) and coordinate your viewing efforts. 4. Avoid Trouble, Steer Clear of Bubbles! Humpback whales sometimes feed by creating “bubble clouds”. They blow bubbles below the surface of the water to confuse and condense schools of small fish. With mouths wide open, the whales surface through the middle of the bubble cloud engulfing large numbers of dazed fish. Bubble clouds look like light green, foamy patches on the surface of the water. Birds often hover over them to take advantage of the readily available fish. Never approach, or drive through, a bubble cloud as a feeding whale is likely to be just below the surface. 5. Don’t Chase, Give The Whales Space! Closely approaching a whale may cause the animal to move away from its food source. Respect the whale’s behavior and keep your distance. If a whale moves away, don’t chase it. A cautious boater may bet to see whales feeding, playing or breaching. Enjoy the whales; don’t endanger them. 6. Drop Your Sails When Watching Whales! A boat under sail may not be able to reduce speed or stop at a safe distance from a surfacing whale. When in the vicinity of whales, it is best to utilize your auxiliary motor and proceed cautiously.

19 Gotham Whale is pleased to work with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary in the NY/NJ area to promote this valuable program.

For more information please contact: Paul L. Sieswerda, Director, Gotham Whale : 718-937-2067!

Submitted by Valerie Ramsberger

20 SANDY HOOK LIGHTHOUSE

The Sandy Hook Light tower is the oldest original tower still standing and in use in the United States. The light in this tower was lighted for the first time on June 11, 1764. Originally called the "New York Lighthouse," it was built by Mr. Isaac Conro of New York City with money collected by a group of New York merchants and maintained by tonnage dues of 22 pence per ton paid to the port of New York "By order of an Act of the Colony." The location of the lighthouse on New Jersey land eventually caused dissension between the two States. It was one of the 12 lighthouses built by the colonies which, by the act of August 7, 1789, were ceded to the United States. The new Federal Government agreed to maintain them thereafter.

The lighthouse was described in 1764 as follows: "This House is of an Octagon Figure, having eight equal sides; the Diameter of the Base 29 feet; and at the Top of the Wall 15 Feet. The Lanthorn is 7 feet high; the Circumference 15 Feet. The whole Construction of the Lanthorn is Iron; the top covered with Copper. There are 48 Oil Blazes. The Building from the Surfaces is Nine Stories; the whole from Bottom to Top 103 Feet.

A lot of about 4 acres "at the point of Sandy Hook, in Monmouth County," was ceded to the United States by the State of New Jersey on November 16, 1790, and on March 1, 1804, the State of New Jersey "consented to the purchase of a lot on the north point of Sandy Hook, for the purpose of erecting a beacon." Appropriations for a beacon "to be erected on the north point of Sandy Hook" were made in 1804 ($2,000), 1805 ($6,000), 1807 ($1,200) and 1817 ($1,200). In 1832 there were two beacons on the Hook, "one on the north point, ranging with the light and buoy of the upper middle; and the westernmost one and light ranging with the buoy on the SW. spit, in both of which are lamps.

In 1852 the Lighthouse Board reported "The tower of Sandy Hook main light was constructed in 1764, under royal charter, of rubblestone, and is now in a good state of preservation. Neither leaks nor cracks were observed in it. The mortar appeared to be good, and it was stated that the annual repairs upon this tower amount to a smaller sum than in the towers of any of the minor lights in the New York district. The illuminating apparatus is composed of 18 21 inch reflectors, and Argand lamps which were fitted new, according to the best information on the subject, in 1842.

21 The light is a 60,000-candlepower, third-order electric light, fixed white, in a white stone tower, 85 feet above ground and 88 feet above water, visible for 15 miles. http://www.uscg.mil/history/weblighthouses/USCGLightList.asp

22 An April Day in Coast Guard History

April 14, 1912-At around 11:40 p.m. on the night of 14 April, RMS Titanic collided with an iceberg off Newfoundland while sailing on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York. She sank a little over two hours later. (Ed. Note: Thus the sinking of RMS Titanic actually occurred on April 15, 1912.) There were 1,517 lost including 103 women and 53 children out of total passenger and crew of 2,207. Subsequently, certification and life saving devices were improved and an International Ice Patrol was created to patrol the sea lanes off Newfoundland and Greenland during the winter months. The Revenue Cutter Service took over the operation of the Patrol the following year. Source: www.uscg.mil/history

www.wikipedia.com Ed Note: The wreck of the ship was not located until 1985 by a French-US expedition team. Robert Ballard, US team leader indicated in a 2012 speech at Lake Erie College, that the primary search objective was for the remains of two US nuclear submarines, USS Thresher and USS Scorpion lost in the same general vicinity as Titanic. The Titanic search was used as a cover story.

A May Day in Coast Guard History

27 May 1943-Douglas Munro's posthumous was given to Douglas Munro's parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Munro of South Cle Elum, , by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in a ceremony at the on Thursday, May 27, 1943. The citation read: "Awarded posthumously to DOUGLAS ALBERT MUNRO, SIGNALMAN FIRST CLASS, U.S. COAST GUARD 'For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry in action above and beyond the call of duty as Office-in-Charge of a group of Higgins boats, engaged in the evacuation of a Battalion of Marines trapped by enemy Japanese forces at , , on September 27, 1942. After making preliminary plans for the evacuation of nearly 500 beleaguered Marines, Munro, under constant risk of his life, daringly led five of his small craft toward the shore. As he closed the beach, he [signaled] the others to land, and then in order to draw the enemy's fire and protect the heavily loaded boats, he valiantly placed his craft with its two small guns as a shield between the beachhead and the Japanese. When the perilous task of evacuation was nearly completed, Munro was killed by enemy fire, but his crew, two of whom were wounded, carried on until the last boat had loaded and cleared the beach. By his outstanding leadership, expert planning, and

23 dauntless devotion to duty, he and his courageous comrades undoubtedly saved the lives of many who otherwise would have perished. He gallantly gave up his life in defense of his country.'" Source: www.uscg.mil/history

A June Day in Coast Guard History

11 June 1764-Sandy Hook Lighthouse, at the south point of the entrance to New York Harbor, was first lighted. Today, its octagonal tower, built by Mr. Isaac Conro of New York City with money collected by a group of New York merchants, is the oldest original light tower still standing and in use in the United States.

Source: www.uscg.mil/history

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Sewaren Fire Works Display July 2nd

Independence Day:July 4th

US Coast Guard 225th Anniversary: 4 August

Don’t forget to enter your hours

25 DIVISION 4 ON THE WEB http://a01404.wow.uscgaux.info

Acting Editor Mike Rebeck SO-CS [email protected]

Articles for the next issue of the newsletter th Must be submitted to the editor by September 15

Mike Rebeck (Acting SO-PB) [email protected]

26 Publishing Information This is the newsletter of Division 4, First Southern Region. We hope this is an enjoyable resource to the members, residents of the community and, continue to look forward to your comments and contributions to its future issues. The Forward is published quarterly by the Division . All rights reserved. Produced in-house. Printed in the U. S. A. All material published here is the explicit property of Division 4, First Southern Region unless otherwise noted. Please read Copyright and Disclaimer notices. Published material becomes the explicit property of Division 4, First Southern Region. Submissions are reviewed by the editor and approved by the Division Commander or designee. Copyright Notice. Compilation and description of information and resources is considered copyrighted material. Authorization to copy or reproduce any portion of Forward can be done without prior written authorization.

Disclaimer Notice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. The Division 4, First Southern Region is not responsible for the contents of any of the resources referenced in or are accessible from Forward. The Division 4, First Southern Region does not make warranty, express or implied, with respect to the use of information provided; A) do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, usefulness or adequacy, of any resources, information, apparatus, product, or process; and B) are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the resources or information utilized, or for the results obtained from use of such resources or information, apparatus, products, or process. This newsletter is published quarterly at no expense to the U.S. Government or the U.S. Coast Guard. Cost of its publication is borne by dues paying members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, First District, Southern Region, Division 4, a volunteer unpaid civilian body whose mission is to assist the U.S. Coast Guard in their missions. As a matter of policy, rosters of names, addresses and telephone numbers shall not be made available to the general public or any outside organization. Privacy of all rosters shall be safeguarded and the page clearly labeled. The publication of these rosters on any computer online service including the Internet is prohibited by the Privacy Act of 1974.

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