(U.S. Coast Guard Photo/Petty Officer Etta Smith)
Friday, April 27, 2007
Spirit of Boston Scene of Coast Guard Gathering
If you were in Boston today, you might have been surprised by what you saw. Armed forces of the Coast Guard on board the Spirit of Boston. It was all part of a special training mission, as is explained here:"BOSTON- Through a veil of rain, a Coast Guard boarding team moves swiftly during a training exercise aboard the Spirit of Boston Friday, April 27, 2007. Coast Guard members from the Maritime Safety and Security Team's of Boston and New Orleans participated in a week-long training exercise that ended with a training operation aboard the commercial vessel. "
(U.S. Coast Guard Photo/Petty Officer Etta Smith)
(U.S. Coast Guard Photo/Petty Officer Etta Smith)
United States Coast Guard and Fenway Park
What's the Coast Guard doing at Fenway Park?
Here's the answer:"BOSTON - During a time-honored tradition with a new twist, Coast Guard Petty Officer and Red Sox fan Glen Browning, far left, is officially reenlisted in the Coast Guard on top of the Green Monster at Fenway Park Thursday, April 26, 2007.
Browning, a native of Wilmington, N.C., and the crew pictured are assigned to the Coast Guard Cutter Tigershark based in Newport, R.I.
(U.S. Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 2nd Class Luke Pinneo)"
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Lady Grace Salvaged , Inspected and Released
It's another chapter in the tragic story of the 75 foot dragger Lady Grace, of New Bedford, which had been lost at sea in January of this year.
Earlier in the month, the Coast Guard had responded to a radio call from the Lady Grace reported they were without power and drifting approximately 10 miles east of Great Point, Nantucket. The Coast Guard undertook a tow and brought the vessel into safer waters. A commercial tow then brought the vessel to port.
Then, two weeks later, Coast Guard Sector Boston received a call from the fishing vessel Lisa Ann II reporting that they had been communicating routinely via e-mail with the Lady Grace. The crew of the Lisa Ann II's became concerned when the 75-foot dragger did not reply to the last e-mail. The Coast Guard launched a search for the Lady Grace.
Sadly, the Coast Guard was able to locate the sunken vessel, but not the crew. Eventually divers from the Massachusetts State Police Underwater Recovery Unit and a private salvage company successfully searched a portion of the interior section of the sunken vessel, but two of the crew were never found.
Then, yesterday, the Lady Grace was salvaged by a commercial contractor, Donjon Marine Co., Inc., and placed on a deck barge. Subsequently, the Coast Guard and Massachusetts State Police continued their investigation on board the vessel. The barge has been brought to port in Quonset, R.I.
The captain of the Port of Providence has released the vessel.
Earlier in the month, the Coast Guard had responded to a radio call from the Lady Grace reported they were without power and drifting approximately 10 miles east of Great Point, Nantucket. The Coast Guard undertook a tow and brought the vessel into safer waters. A commercial tow then brought the vessel to port.
Then, two weeks later, Coast Guard Sector Boston received a call from the fishing vessel Lisa Ann II reporting that they had been communicating routinely via e-mail with the Lady Grace. The crew of the Lisa Ann II's became concerned when the 75-foot dragger did not reply to the last e-mail. The Coast Guard launched a search for the Lady Grace.
Sadly, the Coast Guard was able to locate the sunken vessel, but not the crew. Eventually divers from the Massachusetts State Police Underwater Recovery Unit and a private salvage company successfully searched a portion of the interior section of the sunken vessel, but two of the crew were never found.
Then, yesterday, the Lady Grace was salvaged by a commercial contractor, Donjon Marine Co., Inc., and placed on a deck barge. Subsequently, the Coast Guard and Massachusetts State Police continued their investigation on board the vessel. The barge has been brought to port in Quonset, R.I.
The captain of the Port of Providence has released the vessel.
The Coast Guard Seeks Applications for Membership on the National Boating Safety Advisory Council (NBSAC)
In today's Federal Register (20862 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 80 / Thursday, April 26, 2007 / Notices), the Coast Guard announced that it is seeking applications for membership to fill the seven positions on the The National Boating Safety Advisory Council (NBSAC), that will "expire or become vacant in December 2007: Two representatives of State officials responsible for State boating safety programs, three representatives of
recreational boat and associated equipment manufacturers, and two
representatives of the general public or national recreational boating
organizations."
"DATES: Application forms should reach us on or before August 17, 2007.
ADDRESSES: You may request an application form by writing to
Commandant, Office of Boating Safety (CG–3PCB–1),
U.S. Coast Guard,
2100 Second Street, SW.,
Washington, DC 20593–0001
by calling 202–372–1062; or by faxing 202–372–1932.
Send your application in written form to the above street address. This notice and the application form are also available on the Internet at: http://www.uscgboating.org/nbsac/nbsac.htm
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr. Jeff Ludwig, Executive Secretary of NBSAC
telephone 202–372–1062, fax 202–372–1932
or e-mail: jeffrey.a.ludwig@uscg.mil "
"The National Boating Safety Advisory Council (NBSAC) is a Federal advisory committee under 5 U.S.C. App. 2. It advises the Coast Guard regarding regulations and other major boating safety matters. NBSAC’s 21 members are drawn equally from the following three sectors of the boating community: State officials responsible for State boating safety programs, recreational boat and associated equipment manufacturers, and national recreational boating organizations and the general public. Members are appointed by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. NBSAC normally meets twice each year at a location selected by the Coast Guard. When attending meetings of the Council, members are provided travel expenses and per diem. We will consider applications received in response to this notice for the following seven positions that expire or become vacant in December 2007: Two representatives of State officials responsible for State boating safety programs, three representatives of recreational boat and associated equipment manufacturers, and two representatives of the general public or national recreational boating organizations. Applicants are considered for membership on the basis of their particular expertise, knowledge, and experience in recreational boating safety. Prior applicants should submit an updated application to ensure consideration for the vacancies announced in this notice. Each member serves for a term of up to 3 years.
Members may reapply to serve a consecutive term. In support of the policy of the U.S. Coast Guard on gender and ethnic diversity, we encourage qualified women and members of minority groups to apply. If you are selected as a member who represents the general public, we will require you to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form
450). We may not release the report or the information in it to the public,
except under an order issued by a Federal court or as otherwise provided
under the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552a). Dated: April 18, 2007. F.J. Sturm,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Acting Director of Inspections and Compliance.
[FR Doc. E7–7947 Filed 4–25–07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–15–P
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
Coast Guard
[CGD08–07–009]"
recreational boat and associated equipment manufacturers, and two
representatives of the general public or national recreational boating
organizations."
"DATES: Application forms should reach us on or before August 17, 2007.
ADDRESSES: You may request an application form by writing to
Commandant, Office of Boating Safety (CG–3PCB–1),
U.S. Coast Guard,
2100 Second Street, SW.,
Washington, DC 20593–0001
by calling 202–372–1062; or by faxing 202–372–1932.
Send your application in written form to the above street address. This notice and the application form are also available on the Internet at: http://www.uscgboating.org/nbsac/nbsac.htm
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr. Jeff Ludwig, Executive Secretary of NBSAC
telephone 202–372–1062, fax 202–372–1932
or e-mail: jeffrey.a.ludwig@uscg.mil "
"The National Boating Safety Advisory Council (NBSAC) is a Federal advisory committee under 5 U.S.C. App. 2. It advises the Coast Guard regarding regulations and other major boating safety matters. NBSAC’s 21 members are drawn equally from the following three sectors of the boating community: State officials responsible for State boating safety programs, recreational boat and associated equipment manufacturers, and national recreational boating organizations and the general public. Members are appointed by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. NBSAC normally meets twice each year at a location selected by the Coast Guard. When attending meetings of the Council, members are provided travel expenses and per diem. We will consider applications received in response to this notice for the following seven positions that expire or become vacant in December 2007: Two representatives of State officials responsible for State boating safety programs, three representatives of recreational boat and associated equipment manufacturers, and two representatives of the general public or national recreational boating organizations. Applicants are considered for membership on the basis of their particular expertise, knowledge, and experience in recreational boating safety. Prior applicants should submit an updated application to ensure consideration for the vacancies announced in this notice. Each member serves for a term of up to 3 years.
Members may reapply to serve a consecutive term. In support of the policy of the U.S. Coast Guard on gender and ethnic diversity, we encourage qualified women and members of minority groups to apply. If you are selected as a member who represents the general public, we will require you to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form
450). We may not release the report or the information in it to the public,
except under an order issued by a Federal court or as otherwise provided
under the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552a). Dated: April 18, 2007. F.J. Sturm,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Acting Director of Inspections and Compliance.
[FR Doc. E7–7947 Filed 4–25–07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–15–P
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
Coast Guard
[CGD08–07–009]"
Monday, April 23, 2007
QUINCY MASSACHUSETTS ***** REAL ESTATE *****: Red Sox Sweep Series and Tie Four HR Record
QUINCY MASSACHUSETTS ***** REAL ESTATE *****: Red Sox Sweep Series and Tie Four HR Record
I know this isn't Massachusetts Boating, just pride in our home team, the Boston Red Sox.
I know this isn't Massachusetts Boating, just pride in our home team, the Boston Red Sox.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Is the Kaz II a Modern Day Mary Celeste?
In a story reminiscent of the famous Mary Celeste , an Australian marine safety aircraft spotted the catamaran Kaz II drifting off the Great Barrier Reef on Wednesday. The 40 foot boat had left Airlie Beach in northern Queensland on Sunday. One major difference is there was a dingy found on the Kaz II along with life jackets and an emergency beacon. The lifeboat of the Mary Celeste was missing and speculation that a parted line overboard had originally been a painter.
So far, there is no evidence of foul play on the Kaz II. In fact, the only damage seems to be a torn headsail. The engine and computers were still running and the table was set for a meal.
We can only offer our hopes and prayers for the crew of the Kaz II
Coast Guard Warns Boaters and Paddlers of High, Cold Water
With all the terrible weather, we're all anxious to get out there and enjoy the sunshine. The Coast Guard urges caution so that the weekend will end as good as it starts. They have just posted this press release:
DATE: April 20, 2007 15:25:57 EST
Document Number: 964
First District Public AffairsU.S. Coast Guard
Press Release
Date: Apr 20, 2007
Contact: PA2 Luke Pinneo(617) 223-8515
DANGER LURKS AMIDST WARM, SPRING TEMPERATURES
Coast Guard Warns Boaters and Paddlers of High, Cold Water
BOSTON – With spring-like weather finally forecasted for the weekend, Coast Guard recreational boating specialists advise boaters, paddlers and fishermen to use extreme caution if they plan to boat or paddle on any of the rivers, streams, creeks and coastal waters of the Northeast.
Heavy rains during the last few days, combined with runoff from snow melt from higher elevations, have caused many waterways to flood and pushed tides to near-record levels. This has created stronger-than-usual currents and unexpected water turbulence that could last through the weekend. Gale-force winds have also stirred up branches and debris that create hazards above and below the water that have serious consequences for unsuspecting paddlers and small boaters.
Al Johnson, the First Coast Guard District Recreational Boating Safety Specialist warns boaters and paddlers to be “high-water wary.”
“When a heavy deluge pushes water levels to the flood stage, it drastically alters the characteristics of the flow,” Johnson said, “and moving water at this time of year is fast, frigid and unforgiving.”
High water hides hazards and, along with storm-gererated debris beneath the surface, creates "strainers" or funnel effects that can easily capsize a small boat, canoe or kayak and trap a person if they're thrown into the water. Such conditions contributed to the loss of a 15-year old girl near Albany, NY Monday . She was not wearing a life jacket when her canoe capsized on a rain-swollen creek.
Johnson advises all early-season boaters and paddlers to be aware of the danger and be prepared for sudden cold-water immersion. He said inland and coastal water temperatures are in the 39, 40-degree range and a sudden spill into frigid waters will incapacitate most people within minutes.
Johnson stresses the need for boaters and paddlers to always wear life jackets and reminds paddlers that wearing life jackets is mandatory in Massachusetts until May 15, in Connecticut until the end of May, and on Maine’s Saco River through June 1. Maine also requires anyone operating a watercraft on certain sections of the Penobscot or Kennebec Rivers wear a life jacket at all times. Boaters, paddlers and fishermen venturing out on the water should check water conditions at the U.S. Geological Survey Real-Time Water Data website at http://water.usgs.gov/realtime.html and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Hydrologic Information Center – River Stages website at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/oh/hic/current/river_flooding/Stages.htm.
###
DATE: April 20, 2007 15:25:57 EST
Document Number: 964
First District Public AffairsU.S. Coast Guard
Press Release
Date: Apr 20, 2007
Contact: PA2 Luke Pinneo(617) 223-8515
DANGER LURKS AMIDST WARM, SPRING TEMPERATURES
Coast Guard Warns Boaters and Paddlers of High, Cold Water
BOSTON – With spring-like weather finally forecasted for the weekend, Coast Guard recreational boating specialists advise boaters, paddlers and fishermen to use extreme caution if they plan to boat or paddle on any of the rivers, streams, creeks and coastal waters of the Northeast.
Heavy rains during the last few days, combined with runoff from snow melt from higher elevations, have caused many waterways to flood and pushed tides to near-record levels. This has created stronger-than-usual currents and unexpected water turbulence that could last through the weekend. Gale-force winds have also stirred up branches and debris that create hazards above and below the water that have serious consequences for unsuspecting paddlers and small boaters.
Al Johnson, the First Coast Guard District Recreational Boating Safety Specialist warns boaters and paddlers to be “high-water wary.”
“When a heavy deluge pushes water levels to the flood stage, it drastically alters the characteristics of the flow,” Johnson said, “and moving water at this time of year is fast, frigid and unforgiving.”
High water hides hazards and, along with storm-gererated debris beneath the surface, creates "strainers" or funnel effects that can easily capsize a small boat, canoe or kayak and trap a person if they're thrown into the water. Such conditions contributed to the loss of a 15-year old girl near Albany, NY Monday . She was not wearing a life jacket when her canoe capsized on a rain-swollen creek.
Johnson advises all early-season boaters and paddlers to be aware of the danger and be prepared for sudden cold-water immersion. He said inland and coastal water temperatures are in the 39, 40-degree range and a sudden spill into frigid waters will incapacitate most people within minutes.
Johnson stresses the need for boaters and paddlers to always wear life jackets and reminds paddlers that wearing life jackets is mandatory in Massachusetts until May 15, in Connecticut until the end of May, and on Maine’s Saco River through June 1. Maine also requires anyone operating a watercraft on certain sections of the Penobscot or Kennebec Rivers wear a life jacket at all times. Boaters, paddlers and fishermen venturing out on the water should check water conditions at the U.S. Geological Survey Real-Time Water Data website at http://water.usgs.gov/realtime.html and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Hydrologic Information Center – River Stages website at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/oh/hic/current/river_flooding/Stages.htm.
###
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Governor Patrick Goes Fishing for Federal Relief for Massachusetts Groundfishing Fleet
In a press release, issued yesterday, Monday, April 9, 2007 – Monday, April 9, 2007 – Governor Patrick of Massachusetts – today submitted to the federal government documentation showing regional economic losses of $22 million due to recent changes in federal commercial fishing regulations and called for federal relief for the Massachusetts groundfishing fleet.
“Everyone agrees that the stocks of groundfish in the waters off the coast of Massachusetts need to be replenished,” said Governor Patrick. “Everyone also agrees that the fishing industry needs to remain part of the life of the Commonwealth. The revenue declines experienced by fishing communities represent a true economic disaster."
Governor Patrick sent the report – compiled by the state’s Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) -- to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez in support of his earlier request for a federal declaration of economic disaster affecting the Massachusetts commercial groundfishing fleet.
Declaration of a “fisheries resource disaster” due to regulatory restriction, under provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act as amended by the Reauthorization Act of 2006, is a necessary first step toward obtaining emergency relief from the federal government that could allow the fishing fleet to survive a period of regulatory restriction on groundfish that is having a disproportionate impact on Massachusetts vessels.
“Everyone agrees that the stocks of groundfish in the waters off the coast of Massachusetts need to be replenished,” said Governor Patrick. “Everyone also agrees that the fishing industry needs to remain part of the life of the Commonwealth. The revenue declines experienced by fishing communities represent a true economic disaster."
Governor Patrick sent the report – compiled by the state’s Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) -- to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez in support of his earlier request for a federal declaration of economic disaster affecting the Massachusetts commercial groundfishing fleet.
Declaration of a “fisheries resource disaster” due to regulatory restriction, under provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act as amended by the Reauthorization Act of 2006, is a necessary first step toward obtaining emergency relief from the federal government that could allow the fishing fleet to survive a period of regulatory restriction on groundfish that is having a disproportionate impact on Massachusetts vessels.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Coast Guard Presents Public Service Award to Providence Fire Department
DATE: April 03, 2007 16:49:20 EST
Document Number: 953
First District Public AffairsU.S. Coast Guard
Press Release
Date: April 3, 2007
Contact: Senior Chief Richard Uronis(508) 457-3402
COAST GUARD PRESENTS PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD TO PROVIDENCE FIRE DEPARTMENT
WOODS HOLE, Mass. - Coast Guard Sector Southeastern New England presented the Coast Guard Meritorious Public Service Award to the Providence Fire Department today for their exemplary courage, dedication and leadership during the response to the three-alarm fire at the MOTIVA Enterprises fuel terminal the night of July 18, 2006.
The award was presented by Capt. Roy Nash, commander of Sector Southeastern New England, on behalf of the Coast Guard's Commandant, Adm. Thad Allen. The award recognizes the tenacity and bravery of the Providence Fire Department as they faced dangerous fire conditions complicated by an industrial waterfront environment, severe thunderstorms and darkness. It also acknowledges the department's outstanding efforts in the formation of pre-existing plans, creation of mutual aid agreements and participation in interagency exercises that prepared the fire department to fight the MOTIVA fire while maintaining the ability to respond to other emergency situations elsewhere in the city.
The MOTIVA fire, which took firefighters four hours to suppress and gain control of, took place as a ship discharged gasoline to the waterfront facility. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Here is a link to the press release from the Mayor of Providence, RI
Document Number: 953
First District Public AffairsU.S. Coast Guard
Press Release
Date: April 3, 2007
Contact: Senior Chief Richard Uronis(508) 457-3402
COAST GUARD PRESENTS PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD TO PROVIDENCE FIRE DEPARTMENT
WOODS HOLE, Mass. - Coast Guard Sector Southeastern New England presented the Coast Guard Meritorious Public Service Award to the Providence Fire Department today for their exemplary courage, dedication and leadership during the response to the three-alarm fire at the MOTIVA Enterprises fuel terminal the night of July 18, 2006.
The award was presented by Capt. Roy Nash, commander of Sector Southeastern New England, on behalf of the Coast Guard's Commandant, Adm. Thad Allen. The award recognizes the tenacity and bravery of the Providence Fire Department as they faced dangerous fire conditions complicated by an industrial waterfront environment, severe thunderstorms and darkness. It also acknowledges the department's outstanding efforts in the formation of pre-existing plans, creation of mutual aid agreements and participation in interagency exercises that prepared the fire department to fight the MOTIVA fire while maintaining the ability to respond to other emergency situations elsewhere in the city.
The MOTIVA fire, which took firefighters four hours to suppress and gain control of, took place as a ship discharged gasoline to the waterfront facility. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Here is a link to the press release from the Mayor of Providence, RI
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