This Month from the Officers

Commander: We are about to light up the biggest staff change in the flotilla's recent history. That always comes with challenges. One of my bosses always used the phrase, "this is where the rubber hits the road". It kind of applies, right? Never forget that things we do aren't hard. What we do is not rocket science. And never forget to have a good time. Happy Holidays! See you all at the party!

Vice Commander: Our members have achieved and sustained qualifications through 2022 that will enable our boating safety activities in 2023. We encourage and support other members gaining new qualifications to increase our capacity.

AUXPAD Coordinator: The Auxiliary paddlecraft safety program is a partnership with the American Canoe Association, which is the premier source of training for paddlers. Check our their education resources, including this free online course on safe paddling: https:// americancanoe.org/education/ resource-library/paddlesports- online-course/

FSO-CM (Communications): I am looking for volunteers to stand watch at station Oregon Inlet. If you are interested contact me and I will point you in the right direction. Does anyone in the Flotilla have a Ham radio or other device such as a repeater to connect to a District Communication System?

FSO-CS (Communication Services): Check out the new "The Crew" and take note of the updated lay out for the home page.

FSO-MS (Marine Safety): May we greet the new year with far less negative stuff and more positive stuff . I am hearing more and more about micro-plastics in our waters and how they are entering our seafood and into our body. The impact of micro-plastics on our health is concerning.

FSO-MT (Member Training): We begin 2023 with: Coxswain - 6, Boat Crew - 16, AuxPad Operators - 4, PWC Operators - 2, Qualifying Examiners - 2, Instructors - 9, Vessel Examiners - 9, Nav Aids Verifiers - 9, Communication Officer - 1, Partners Visitors - 3.

FSO-PA (Public Affairs): We are ramping up the New Year with new classes, including a six session course on Boating Skills and Seamanship and a Boat America safety course. Let's Go 2023 Aux!

FSO-PB (Publications): We are expanding the flotilla library to include professional photographs and video that highlight the CGAUX team and activities for publications. It will be an exciting year to promote our enthusiasm and expertise in regards to safety and training.

FSO-PE (Public Education): A Boating Skills and Seamanship class, which is a comprehensive course designed to educate experienced and novice boaters in the skills needed to safely handle and operate a boat, will be held at the Southern Shores fire department on January 24, 26, 31, February 2, 7, and 9. Click on the following link for more information and to sign up.
https://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=054-16-07&category=paymnet-portal-ba-zoom

FSO-SR (Secretary of Records):  My main goal going forward as Secretary of Records is to do Kevin Slattery proud and not to get any ‘nasty grams’ from the higher ups!

FSO-VE (Vessel Examination): As a certified Vessel Examiner you have the unique opportunity to work with and educate the recreational boating public. This is a great way to learn more about boating safety and meet fellow recreational boaters. To become a Vessel Examiner, check out the resources at: https://www.wow.uscgaux. info/content.php?unit=V-DEPT& category=become-a-ve