the helm station - manatee sail & power squadron · the helm station - official publication of...

The Helm Station - Official publication of the Manatee Sail & Power Squadron

A unit of the United States Power Squadrons™

The Helm Station

www.manatee-squadron.org

In this Edition:

* Messages from our Commander and Bridge

Officers

* C & R Week Away Recap

* Off the Beaten Path Recap

* Just For Girls Fishing Recap

* ABC Education Class Recap

* New Members Orientation Recap

* Schedule of upcoming Boating Activities

* Upcoming Holiday Events

* Squadron Opportunities

* Calendar, Sunshine news, Snacks, Trivia

* Member news, Helmsman page & advertisements

* And much more ...

December 2015

Sunrise at Pink Shell (Photo by P/Lt/C Mike Stewart SN)


Cdr Tom Brown P [email protected]

Commander’s Message

Come for the Boating Education…Stay for the Friends.

The Helm Station

A publication of the Manatee Sail & Power Squadron,

a unit of the United States Power Squadrons®. We

are located in Manatee County, Florida.

Editor: Lt Lynne Gieges S

[email protected]

Asst. Editor: 1/Lt Karel Goodrich P

Advertising: P/C Gary Mink P

Distribution Lt Jay Sands P

Photos: as noted

The Helm Station is the official publication

of the Manatee Sail & Power Squadron with twelve

issues yearly. Opinions expressed in The Helm Sta-

tion are those of the author of the article and do

not necessarily represent the position of The Helm

Station, MSPS, or USPS. All rights reserved.

.

MERRY CHRISTMAS to all our wonderful

Manatee Sail and Power Squadron friends!

The year is flying by, and if we lived a thou-

sand miles North of here, it might even be

snowing… burrrrrrr. But, we don’t and it is

definitely not snowing here, so let’s contin-

ue with the education classes, the communi-

ty service work, and the boating events.

Oh, and also keep the fun turned up too.

THANK YOU to all of our members who

make this a successful squadron. We all

appreciate and value what you do for this

squadron. WE ALL THANK YOU.

As you can see inside this newsletter, on

our web page (www.manatee-squadron.org) ,

and on our Facebook pages, November was

chock full of activities: Two weeks away on

the water, D-22 C & R at South Seas Re-

sort on Captiva Island, Just For Girls Fish-

ing, Off the beaten path at Woody Roo’s,

Seamanship Education classes, ABC class

for the public, New member orientation,

and much more. See our squadron Facebook

page for videos and photos of all the activi-

ties. Just scroll down and click on what you

want to see… videos, photos, etc.

www.facebook.com/Manatee-Sail-Power-

Squadron

(The Commander’s message is continued on

page 6)


Executive Department

Lt/C Cliff Schmidt AP [email protected]

Fall brings more waves and wind for boating activities. Stay sharp when heading out.

Events in the Executive Department for fall are picking up.

MSPS will be assisting in the Boys and Girls Club of Manatee 61st Annual Christmas Tree sales this year.

We have Thursday, 03 Dec 15 for our time slot with 3 shifts – see the flyer in this Helm Station.

If you know of an event in which the MSPS should be represented please give me call. We are always looking for

new venues to pass on safe boating.

Thank you to the MSPS members that worked the “Just for Girls Fishing”, at the Green Bridge. The report from

those attending is all had a great time and the girls caught some fish.

The D22 C & R was held at South Seas Resort on Captiva Island and Manatee Sail and Power Squadron was well

represented.

The Executive Department is looking for a new Officer for the Cooperative Charting position. This is a great

way to participate in MSPS. There is a description of this officer on page 19. If you are interested, please send

me an e-mail or call me.

SAFE BOATING

Wear your PFD, Carry an EPIRB and keep an eye on the weather.

Boating is fun .. We'll show you how


As our attention focuses on the Holidays and as the year winds down, our thoughts turn

to offering thanks to our Creator for the gifts that were to us, for the wonderful people

in our Squadron, and the accidental good fortunes that have come our way this year.

We are thankful for delicious hors d'oeuvres, smooth drinks, good food, pleasant company, fair winds, following

seas, a clean bilge, safe boating, and the pleasure derived from our pursuit of and receipt of the gifts of

knowledge about our boating avocations.

Wishing you freedom from accidental groundings, bad fuel, clogged intakes, salt-water corrosion, barnacles, light-

ning, storms, high fuel prices, and excess written verbiage.

May you enjoy the Holiday Season, and may God bless you and yours with joy, peace, love and laughter, and all of

life's blessings.

Lt/C George Druist SN [email protected]

Administrative Department

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Yvonne, I, and the entire Beverage family want to thank our MSPS family for all your kind wishes of sympathy

and prayers at the passing of both my parents in October. Your cards, calls and offers to help were over-

whelming and so very much appreciated. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and prayers.

P/C Larry Beverage JN and Lt Yvonne Beverage P


Lt/C King Barnard SN

[email protected]

Education Department

As I reported at the November meeting, we are excited about the classes we’ve lined up for this season. Here’s

what we’ve scheduled so far:

November 2015 -- Seamanship with P/C Myles Gee SN as instructor

-- Engine Maintenance with Bob Kelly N as instructor

January 2016 -- Weather with P/C Richard Harrison JN as instructor

February 2016 -- Sail with Lt Bill Dearstyne JN as instructor

March 2016 -- Marine Electronics with P/C Charlie Brunner SN as instructor

-- Cruise Planning with Lt Charles Bigham SN as instructor

Other classes and start dates are being worked out between the instructors and students. If you have an inter-

est in having some fun while sharpening your boating knowledge skills, and have not yet signed up for a class, let

me know and we’ll get you started. You can review the classes we offer under the Education tab on our website

www.manatee-squadron.org . Just click on the photo of each class workbook to see a description of each course.

We have three new Navigators to congratulate at our December meeting – John Walsh N, Lt/C George Druist N,

and Tom Dereniwski N. Congratulations to all who have taken our classes, especially our new Navigators as that

level of boating education represents a significant commitment to learning more about boating.

By the time you read this we will have taught another successful ABC class to the public at the Elks Lodge on 21

Nov 15. Thanks to Lt Monique Gutierrez S and Bob Gutierrez N for all the planning and coordinating of this

event. Also thanks to all the volunteers who helped with the many behind the scenes details --- especially lunch,

and finally to our Education Department’s staff of world-class instructors for an outstanding job.

Here’s the answer to last month’s question: what is the nautical origin and meaning of “The Devil to Pay?”

To pay the deck seams meant to seal them with tar. The devil seam was the most difficult to pay because it was

curved and intersected with the straight deck planking. Paying the Devil was considered to be a most difficult

and unpleasant task, sometimes used as mild punishment.

Now that you know the answer to the “Devil to Pay”, what is the nautical

origin and meaning of “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea?”


Commander’s Message—Continued

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

What’s next? Check out the December plans in this issue of the Helm Station.

And then in Feb 2016, we have the big Change of Watch (COW), which means the Bridge changes

composition… people move in and up and out. This is my year to “retire” from the Commander posi-

tion and Lt/C Cliff Schmidt AP is expected to become your new Commander. He will be great at that

job! We will do all this changing at a formal event and dinner to be held at the Pier-22 Restaurant

Ballroom on Saturday, 13 Feb 16. See the included flyer. Sign up for a great fun event and welcome

in your new Bridge.

Did you know the Coast Guard has an app for your smart phone? Get it

at iTunes, or the APP store, or directly from the Coast Guard web site www.uscg.mil/mobile It is

FREE ! See the flyer in this issue.

Be careful out there… Wear your life jacket! Be alert!

USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM. Have Fun… Be safe… May you

always have smooth seas.

NEW MEMBERSHIP

Please welcome new members Suzanne and Roger Tyrrell. Suzanne and Roger reside at Freedom Village in Braden-

ton. They have been seasonal residents in Florida for the past 11 years and two months ago become permanent

residents, relocating from Northern Michigan.

Suzanne and Roger boat in their Rosbourgh 246 (Sea Trek). They also enjoy swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

The Tyrrell's are transferring their USPS membership from the “Tip of the Mitt” Sail and Power Squadron in

Northern Michigan.

Provided by Lt/C George Druist SN


Aweekaweigh 2015

The planning is over and so is the Aweekaweigh

Cruise for 2015. The itinerary listed five ports

between Bradenton and Marco Island. As weather would have it we held up one ex-

tra day at the first port (Palm Island) and skipped the second port due to bad weather. While holding at Palm Is-

land for the weather to break on our third day, the early morning coffee group thought making breakfast for all

cruisers would be fun, so off to Publix we go. Several dozen eggs and packages of Turkey sausage later a break-

fast brunch was enjoyed by all. Although hot, the weather for cruising was terrific. Pools in each port were a

welcome relief each day from the hot temperatures. Halloween was during our stay on Marco Island. Crafts were

provided prior to a weenie roast and a late night swim. While at South Seas Plantation Marina and Resort we par-

ticipated in the District22 C&R. This event was attended by 38 boats and more than 100 District 22 members.

Cookout, dinner and dancing were shared with other squadrons over the two day event.

South Seas also provided the opportunity to have docktails on the dock, (away from the bugs). We had 15 boats

at some Marinas and less at others as some joined in route and others did not cruise to all ports. Everyone had a

wonderful time. We are already looking forward to next year.

P/C Larry Beverage JN (More pictures on pages 22-25)

Boating Activities


“Off the Beaten Path” Activity

12 Nov 15 Woody’s River Roo Happy Hour/Dinner

On a beautiful Thursday evening, 48 squadron members attended Happy Hour/

dinner at Woody's River Roo on the Manatee River. Several came by boat but

most attendees drove.

Photos provided by 1/Lt Karel Goodrich P

November Events~~Continued

Good Seamanship—The Gees and the Beverages

wearing their PDFs!



Photos by 1/Lt Karel Goodrich P

13 Nov 15 ~ Just For Girls Fishing

25 girls from Just For Girls Middle School were treated to a fishing excursion at the

Green Bridge on the Manatee River. 23 squadron members volunteered their time to

help and teach fishing techniques to the girls. After a fun time (with 6 fish landed)

everyone enjoyed a cookout by squadron members at Blackstone Park.



ABC Course ~ 21 Nov 15

As the group photo shows, we had 23 students today who had a great productive day. They were

enthusiastic and all were invited to attend our new member orientation at Twin Dolphin mari-

na. Many asked for a membership application. A big THANK YOU goes out to everyone who made

this a successful class... instructors, organizers, food providers, the Elks Lodge, and students! I

am so proud of each one of you! It's a safer world on the water because of you.

Cdr Tom Brown, P

P/C Roland Seidel SN teaching A few happy volunteers

(Photos by Lt Monique Gutierrez S)


New Member Orientation 23 Nov 15

A new member orientation was held at Twin Dolphin Marina on Mon 23 Nov 15. MSPS welcomed many new mem-

bers, prospective members, newly transferred-in members and some guests. Led by Cdr Tom Brown P, Bridge

Officers talked about their respective areas of responsibility. Handouts were distributed. Our newcomers were

given information on educational classes, member benefits, social and civic events, etc.

Thanks to all who provided wonderful appetizers and desserts!

Welcome to all our new members!

P/D/C Myles Gee SN and Lt Kathy Gee S (Photos by 1/Lt Karel Goodrich P)


BOATING ACTIVITIES 2015-2016

CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY CRUISE: The annual Holiday boat parade is scheduled for 12 Dec 15 on the Bradenton River sponsored by Pier 22 and Twin Dolphin Marina. P/D/C Myles Gee SN i s the contact person for this event. Come by boat or car and join in the festive event full of colored lights shimmering off the Manatee River. This event is sure to put you in the Holiday Spirit. All members are welcome to attend boating activities at any port accessible by car, kayak, bike, or foot. Come join us at any port for docktails, dinner or any other scheduled activ-ity. Contact a port captain if you’re interested and you will be included in the communications loop. Following are dates and ports that are confirmed through April of next year.

Cruise to Twin Dolphin 11 – 13 Dec 15

Port Captain Myles Gee-Holiday Boat Parade

Cruise to MSPS Change of Watch 12 – 14 Feb 16

Twin Dolphin Marina

For those who want to attend the COW by boat.

Cruise to Treasure Island - 15 – 17 Apr 16

Captain needed to organize this cruise.

P/C Larry Beverage JN


CHRISTMAS TREE SALES 61st Annual

Boys and Girls Club of Manatee County Don’t have much time but want to give a little back to the community? Then join us in helping the Boys and Girls Club of

Manatee County. For many years, we have volunteered to staff the Boys and Girls Club Christmas tree lot. We provide

one day’s service in the lot from 1200 to 2000. Our jobs are simply to show the trees and help the customers load the

trees into or onto their cars. The Boys and Girls club have all the supplies; we just need to show up. Gloves are also

provided, however some like to bring their own. I hope you can at least stop in and cheer us along.

Our Squadron will staff the lot on Thursday 03 Dec 15, we will have three shifts as follows:

Shift 1 - 1200 to 1430

Shift 2 - 1430 to 1700

Shift 3 - 1700 to 2000

Contact: MSPS Executive Officer Lt/C Cliff Schmidt AP at [email protected]

Tree Lot Location: Westgate Shopping Center (Empty lot next to Publix parking lot at 3913 Manatee Ave. W) All

Squadron Christmas Elf’s are welcome to join in the event.

It is so much fun to watch families stop by, interact with them as they choose their tree, and head home with the tree

loaded up on their vehicle. If you're not in the Holiday spirit before then, you will be after a shift. There will be a sign

-up sheet at the December meeting. Please make a note on your calendars to reserve this date if you’re able to help.

COMMUNITY SERVICE OPPORTUNITY

Upcoming Event Information


MSPS HOLIDAY PARTY

Bradenton Yacht Club

Sunday, December 6, 2015

1130 Cash Bar 1215 Dinner

Herbed Pork Loin OR Chicken Cordon Bleu

Salad

Mashed Potatoes

Green Beans Almandine

Rolls

Warm Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

Gluten free and Vegan Special Request Available

$24.00 pp

Reservations Deadline December 3

Sandy Druist

236 Dahlia Ct.

Bradenton, Fl. 34212

941-254-4663

[email protected]

Please indicate choice of entree and make checks payable to MSPS

This year, in lieu of donations for door prizes, and in the spirit of giving, we are asking for do-

nations for our military vets. The Elks Lodge where we hold our meetings, collect supplies for

the men and women at Bay Pines VA Healthcare facility. We thought it

would be appropriate to support their efforts. Some things they need

are toiletries, tee shirts, sweatshirts, and ball caps. Thank you for

whatever you are able to do to help those who have fought to keep us

free!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


PLEASE JOIN THE MANATEE SAIL & POWER SQUADRON FOR

THE 2016 CHANGE OF WATCH (COW)

WHEN: Saturday, 13 Feb 2016

WHERE: Pier 22 Restaurant, 1200 1st Ave West, Bradenton, FL 34205

in the upstairs River Room Ball Room

DRESS: Uniform A or appropriate dress attire.

TIMES: 1830 Cash bar; 1900 Welcome and Invocation; 1930 Dinner; 2000 Change of Watch

Entree 1. Atlantic Salmon Dinner, cranberry pineapple compote, risotto, and vegetables.

Entree 2. Chicken Marsala Dinner, pan seared chicken breast topped with wild

mushrooms and a rich marsala wine sauce, garlic mashed potatoes and fresh market

vegetables.

Entree 3. Sirloin Dinner, USDA Prime cut, demi-glace with garlic mashed potatoes

and fresh market vegetables.

Entree 4. Tuscan Vegetable Pasta Dinner, eggplant, zucchini, Portobello mushroom, red

peppers, all marinated then grilled, tossed with olive oil, garlic and spinach on linguini pasta.

All entrees served with iceberg lettuce salad, parmesan dressing, finished

with apple-wood smoked bacon crumbles and chopped egg.

Dessert, Carrot Cake, topped with cream cheese icing and chopped pecans.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------

Cost is $40.00 per person,

RSVP with check (payable to MSPS) and choice of entre by Friday, 29 January 2016.

Mail to: Lt/C Bob Gutierrez N

117 52nd St.

Holmes Beach, FL 34217-1716

SQUADRON NAME__________________________________

Rank _____ Name _____________________________ Grade ______ Entree choice#

_____ Rank _____ Name _____________________________ Grade ______ Entree

choice# _____

GUEST Name ____________________________________________ Entree choice#

_____


IN THE BILGE Lt/C Cliff Schmidt AP

Shore Power Cords and Connections.

Most cruising boats today are equipped with some type of shore power. This could be a simple dedicated 15AMP plug-

in for a marine onboard battery charger to a 100AMP+ system like in our own homes. To get this electrical power onboard we

use a shore power cord and shore power inlets.

Manufactured Shore Power cords are basic; they have a “male” end to plug into a dock receptacle and a “female” end

to plug into the inlet on the boat.

Shore power cords should be inspected routinely for any breaks in the protective covering. Breaks could allow water

into the inner wires which may cause corrosion and a short. Shore power cable ends should be inspected every time they are

plugged in. Look for corrosion on the lugs as corrosion cause resistance – resistance causes heat – heat can lead to fire. Look

for lose or damaged lugs.

These plugs are past their useful life! And were in use at time of survey!

Many times I see shore power cords not properly secured to the inlets both dock and ship side. The lock ring on a shore pow-

er cord is an important device as it holds the shore power cord in place. The twist lock was not designed to be the only means

to lock the shore power cord in place. An issue with an improperly secured cord is heat build up in the inlet from loose shore

power cords.

Tied up cords can cause lose connections that cause may cause overheating.

This photo is from an infrared video camera I use on all surveys. Imaging

target shows overheated connections from lose twist locks.

A new type of shore power connector is on the market called an EEL system. The EEL system has different types of

lugs, an over temperature protection device and a built in locking device. It may become the new standard in the marine indus-

try.

Tied up shore power cords Correct lock rings


The cords are not the only item that can be damaged. The inlets both shore side and boat side also have issues. All inlets

should be inspected every time before plugging into them. Look for loose lugs and corrosion or burnt areas around the lugs.

Boat side inlets can be serviced or cleaned of corrosion. MAKE sure that ALL power is off and ALL circuit breakers are

shut off when connecting shore power. If the boat has a onboard inverter make sure it to is shut off prior to ANY clean-

ing of shore power inlets.

Shore power plugs and inlets have a backside. Most of the time they are hard to get to or the plug or inlet has to be re-

moved, if possible inspect it as well.

The recommended way to disconnect and reconnect shore power cords is as follows:

Turn off all loads including air conditioning and then turn off the main breaker onboard your vessel. (if equipped with a

transfer switch, then switch to OFF)

Turn off the circuit breaker on the dock side.

Unlock the lock ring and unplug the cord form the dock side inlet and bring the cord aboard.

Secure all cords and inlet cover prior to departing.

Reconnecting shore power.

Plug into the boat side inlet first, secure the lock ring – this way you are not carrying a “HOT” cord over water.

Plug in the cord to the dock side inlet, secure the lock ring.

Energize the dock side circuit breaker.

Go aboard and check the shore power panel, if equipped check the reverse polarity light (required on all 120AMP sys-

tems) it should be off. If the reverse polarity light is lit – very unlikely today - do not turn on the vessel or shore

power circuit breaker. Go to the dock and turn off the dock side circuit breaker immediately and have the system

inspected by a licensed electrical technician. Look at the volt meter; it should be 120VAC. If all is correct turn on

the ship’s main breaker, and power up the rest of the ship’ s circuits as needed. 50AMP 250VAC and above are not

required to have reverse polarity lights but do have volt and or amp meters.

Secure the shore power cord(s) as needed to keep the cord out of the water and from getting pinched.

With a bit of routine maintenance you can prevent electrical issues onboard.


OPPORTUNITIES FOR MORE FUN THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE- INTERESTED?

Like any organization that does worthwhile service for the public, the Manatee Sail and Power Squadron is made

up of many background jobs that make the whole effort a success. And guess what… You know who has the most

fun? Members who find an area in that organization where they are interested in learning and/or volunteering to

help someone else as a team to work toward our common goals… to make boating safer and to have fun doing it!

It is a worthwhile way to get to know more about our squadron, learn how it works, and it is a great way to make

new friends while having more fun than just watching from a distance. I guarantee you that happiness gets big-

ger and bigger as people get excited about this great squadron. Try it and see for yourself. We all are bound

together as an extended family, all for one, and one for all. So, at this time of year we begin to plan next year’s

structure where committees change and members rotate around the organization. It’s like a “new opportunity

season” where we grow and make new friends. We expect in February 2016 that opportunities for change will be

abundant as usual. The Executive Committee gazed into the MSPS crystal ball and we anticipate the following

opportunities in February 2016 and all you need to do is contact any bridge member to express an interest.

Ship Store functions include selling merchandise to members: shirts, flags, etc. Here you get to know

members, help them select accessories, and as you will soon discover, the ship store is a virtual store that

we locate near the snacks at every membership meeting. This is a great way to talk boating, sell

shirts, make friends, and munch on yummy snacks too.

Cooperative Charting is where we report navigation aids that are run over, storm damaged, or move from

their intended position as shown on NOAA charts. This activity is based on what you see in the water

compared to what NOAA charts say you will see there. These team members like boating, go boating,

Record navigation anomalies, and have fun doing it. It is a great excuse to get out there on the water

whenever you want. It’s all good.

Vessel Safety Check involves performing safety checks for free for the public’s vessels, including boats,

kayaks, and even paddle boards. We will train you, coach you, and give you forms with a checklist to make

the process simple. Forms that the inspectors complete then need to be sent to a central location for

processing. The committee chairman then oversees and manages the process, including submitting reports

to headquarters.

Boating Activities committee leaders and team members help create great venues for our members who

want to gather at fun waterfront locations reached by boat or by kayak or seaplane or automobile. It is a

really fun and critical function. There are opportunities for leaders and all members who want to go

boating to fun places in SW Florida. Extra fun!


Kayaking functions include working with the team to pick out places to go kayaking. It could just be a few

hours where you call or email folks and decide to go kayaking. Or it could include planning an annual trip to

Crystal River for a weekend party, where we stay at a local hotel and go exploring in kayaks, which usually

include floating in crystal clear water watching manatee slowly moving in the waters below. It is an un-

forgettable pleasure to be part of this team. Bring a camera, because you will want to capture all the

smiles, the manatees, and the beautiful environment forever. Try it, you will love it.

Membership committee welcomes new members, prepares welcome packages, and does paperwork to pro-

cess in new members. They work with the National membership professionals who guide you throughout

the process. The function is quite valuable as it uses the existing computer system to track and report on

our membership numbers.

ABC is America’s Boating Course and each year we set up, coordinate and teach a couple of all day long

classes for the general public. The opportunities include managing and overseeing the process, which is

well documented. We always get volunteers to help and we always find it very gratifying to see all those

students learn so much and at the end of the day, pass the final exam. You will leave a positive impres-

sion on your local boating community, make new friends, and usually gain new members/friends in our

squadron.

The Hurricane team has a computer-based CD presentation and training program that specifically helps

everyone prepare for really bad weather such as a hurricane. In the past, we have been invited to pre-

sent the slide show to other boating groups, and we want to share the fun with more team members. You

will learn how Florida weather acts and how best to protect your boat in a hurricane, e.g., the best way to

tie/secure your boat, what to do if your boat stays in your back yard dock and even what to do if it is in a

marina. You will learn safe actions to take at the practice sessions. And then there are the line (rope)

tricks, fender placement techniques, and other critical steps to survive that you will learn and share with

others. It is serious business and serious fun to be a team member.

Port Captain is a very special job where a person is willing, able, and ready to provide information to oth-

er United States Power Squadrons’ members who call or visit our area and are seeking local boating data

for the Manatee Sail and Power Squadron area. Each and every squadron in every state has a Port Cap-

tain who, when asked, provides as much information as possible. This includes descriptions of our local

marinas, fuel docks, pump out stations, good restaurants, and other information like that. They also are

aware of local squadron events and extend invitations to any travelers to join us and make new boating

friends. It can be a very rewarding experience for both the travelers and our squadron.

WHERE CAN YOU SIGN UP? - Just let someone know you have an interest or you have questions. We will

make sure you are introduced to the one who has the answers and can help you make the right choice.

You will be guided all the way and never left alone to figure it out. We are all in this together. Let’s have

fun and create some new memories while helping keep boating as safe as possible. And, yes, we do use

the buddy system in our squadron. It is the safest way to do most activities.

Thank you for your considerations.

Cdr Tom Brown P


MEET MANATEE SAIL AND POWER SQUADRON

(www.Manatee-Squadron.org)

WHO: Boating-Centric Friendly Folks Sharing SAFETY and FUN

USPS Teaching Safe Boating Since 1914

WHAT: UNITED STATES POWER SQUADRONS (Nat’l)

The World’s Premier Boating Education Group

Mission: Education, Community Civic, Boating Fraternity

>> D-22 (District with 17 squadrons in SW Florida)

>> MANATEE SAIL AND POWER SQUADRON (local)

Started May 1997 (18 yrs ago)

Many classes being taught, many social gatherings

Walk, Sail, Power-boat, Kayak, Bike, Drive to a PARTY

The FUN squadron; There is Something for Everyone

YOU DO NOT NEED A BOAT IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE

One boating activity each month

One party/luncheon event each month

Training Classes available all year, your choice

Example: Weather, Navigation, Cruise Planning,

Seamanship, Pilot, Advanced Pilot, etc.

WHEN: Membership meetings on 1st Tuesday ea month

EXCOM meets last Tuesday to plan General meeting

Except July and August--NO General Meeting

WHERE: Elks Lodge at 4611 4th Ave East, Palmetto, FL 34221

WHY: Safety is Number One, experience improves your safety

Use a buddy system, know the waters, the weather, etc.

HOW: Structured like a corporation with Pres, VPs, Board of Dir

Bridge, EXCOM, committees (all volunteers)

Minimum Costs, Maximum Values, Education & Fun

e-Mail: [email protected]

Come check us out. As our guest, attend an event, meeting, etc.

It’s free… what do you have to lose? There’s much to gain!

“Come for the boating education… Stay for the Friends”

http://www.Manatee-Squadron.org


November Events

CRUISING FOR TWO WEEKS TO FAR AWAY PORTS ALWAYS BRINGS OUT THE BEST FUN IN ALL OF US. CHECK

OUT THE SQUADRON FACEBOOK PAGES FOR MORE.

Brian Healey, Howard Kelly & Margo, Carolyn & Mike Stewart were relaxed, laid back, and enjoying every minute of this

cruising adventure. Larry danced “electric slide” on Facebook!

It’s Looking Up!


Ft. Myers Beach, Useppa Island, And South Seas Resort on Captiva Island for the D-22 C & R

R/C Mary Page Abbott SN-IN will soon be the next National Administrative Officer. Congrats!

More than 100 United States Power Squadrons members attended the D22 C & R at South Seas.


South Seas Resort has awesome pools, great adult beverages (voodoo buckets), and everything you could need to compliment

the natural beauty of the area. It is a great place to visit.

Newer members Howard Kelly (above left) and Matt Braatz (above right) discovered why we are known as the FUN squadron.

Smiles and laughter and grins and chuckles were everywhere!


Our prior SEO Lt/C Bob Kelly N and his daughter Kim (not pictured) and Grand Daughter Mary

(left) celebrate Halloween while on the 2 Weeks-Away Cruise. Those three helped us all have a

great fun two weeks on the water. They rode bikes every day, laughed and played, and kept Bob

very busy the entire way.

Photos and article on pages 22, 23, 24, and 25 provided by Cdr Tom Brown P


Bradenton Herald

Home Delivery Rates Special Discount

Up to 50% off

For information call: P/C John Warren AP

941-723-0640


Our Calendar

01 Dec 15 1900 Membership Meeting Elks Lodge, Palmetto, Fl

06 Dec 15 1130 MSPS Christmas / Holiday Party Bradenton Yacht Club

11-13 Dec 15 - C&R and Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Twin Dolphin Marina

20 Dec 15 1000 Breakfast Munch Bunch VFW Bradenton

29 Dec 15 1700 EXCOM MEETING Elks Lodge, Palmetto, Fl

05 Jan 16 1900 Membership Meeting Elks lodge, Palmetto, Fl

15-17 Jan 16 TBD C & R and/or boating activity TBD

17 Jan 16 1000 Breakfast Munch Bunch VFW Bradenton

26 Jan 16 1700 EXCOM MEETING Elks Lodge, Palmetto, Fl

02 Feb 16 1900 Membership Meeting Elks Lodge, Palmetto, Fl

12 Feb 16 1700 Commander’s Reception River Dance Condo Social Room

13 Feb 16 1800 Manatee Sail & Power Squadron

Change of Watch - C.O.W. Pier22 Restaurant, Bradenton

15-21 Feb 16 - 2016 USPS National Annual Meeting Orlando

23 Feb 16 1700 EXCOM MEETING Elks Lodge, Palmetto, Fl

01 Mar 16 1900 Membership Meeting Elks Lodge, Palmetto, Fl

10-12 Mar 16 - Boating Activity – Caladesi & Clearwater Caladesi (10th-12th) & Clearwater(13th-15th)

27 Mar 16 - EASTER HOLIDAY

1-3 Apr 16 1000 De Soto Seafood Festival Sutton Park, Palmetto

15-17 Apr 16 - Boating Activity Treasure Island


Helmsman: A Helmsman is “one who steers the ship”. The Helm Station is our monthly

newsletter, and is one of the ways we communicate with our members and helps us steer our

organization. It is also one of our largest expenses. To help us defray the cost of publishing

this newsletter, we established the Helmsman Program.

You can become a Helmsman for The Helm Station by contributing $10 in honor of

the month of your birthday. We will publish your name on The Helmsman Page and recognize

your birthday during your birth month. Sign up in January to have your support listed

throughout the year.

If you paid to join the Helmsman Page ($10/year) you are also eligible for a free

classified ad in two consecutive issues. What a deal! Contact the editor to take advantage

HI all~~~ Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiv-

ing and have survived all the turkey and stuffing.

Well, Christmas is upon us and Santa is watching.

Hope you are all on Santa’s good list.

A big thank you to our volunteers who have been

kind enough to bring snacks to our meetings. Lt

Carolyn Schmidt, Leanne Hintz P and Illene Tress

provided the November snacks. Diane Barnard AP,

Carol Dearstyne and Donna Steinmetz will provide

December snacks.

Be happy and be healthy for the New Year.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

If you know anyone needing some cheer, please con-

tact me at [email protected].

Please keep our service men and women in your

thoughts and prayers and all people in Paris and

around the world who are surviving the terrible

tragedies.

Thanks!

P/Lt/C Judy Martorana P

Sunshine News

P/Lt/C Judy Martorana P


I/We wish to join the 2014 Helmsman Program

______________________________________________ ______________

Member Name Birthday Month

______________________________________________ ______________

Birthdays - 2015 January

* Ed Cornell

* Angela Erlacher

* Jim Gieges

Lynne Gieges

Ron Leonbruno

Mike McClintic

Mike Stewart

February

* Monique Gutierrez

* Chris Harrison

* Cliff Schmidt

* Roland Seidel

* Carolyn Stewart

March

* Dona Bigham

Tom Brown

Bruiser Mink

Diana Nyman

April

* Richard Calvin

* Roberta Caraceni

* Marty Spencer

May

* Bev Krebs

June

July

* Charlie Bigham

* Barbara Calvin

* Bud Krebs

* Gary Mink

* Celia Strawn

August

September

* Matt Braatz

* Bill Erlacher

Ingrid Seidel

October

* Sandi Braatz

Barbara Brown

Nadene Cornell

Charles Feldschau

Kathy Gee

Bob Gutierrez

Joan Leonbruno

Judy Martorana

Carl Nyman

November

* Myles Gee

* Richard Harrison

* Carolyn Schmidt

December

* Adrian Caraceni

* Bob Hintze

* Leann Hintze

* Bill Spencer

Mail or hand in this form to

the Treasurer. Thanks!


The Helm Station

4728 Starboard Dr.

Bradenton, FL 34208

[email protected]

December 2015

To:


Our next Business Meeting

05 Jan 16

1900

Palmetto Elks

4611 4th Avenue E

Palmetto, Florida 34220

For directions please see our website:

www.manatee-squadron.org

Advertise!

We encourage members and non-members to place

advertisements in The Helm Station offering goods

and services. The Helm Station reaches over 150

MSPS members, other District 22 squadron mem-

bers and a national audience through our website on

USPS.org. Rates are very reasonable; $45 a year

for a standard business card ad, $15 for a simple

classified ad in 2 issues.

Support our Advertisers—They support us!

[note—rates subject to change without notice, con-

tact our advertising officer for additional details

on pricing, ad sizing, and other information.

A Unit of the United States Power Squadrons™ District 22

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