First I would like to thank all the 2022 staff officers, appointed and elected, for their service, dedication, and leadership to the membership. This ship could not have sailed without you at the helm.
DISTRICT CHIEF OF STAFF’ S MESSAGE
First I would like to thank all the 2022 staff officers, appointed and elected, for their service, dedication, and leadership to the membership. This ship could not have sailed without you at the helm.
You provided guidance, support, and direction to all in a time when things were uncertain. Your professionalism set the foundation for us to continue to build on, and have brought us to where we are today.
As we enter 2023 we leave behind a wake of tumultuous waters. Together we faced many challenges, mostly stemming from the remnants of COVID restrictions. We improvised, overcame, and adapted to meet our responsibility to the recreational boating public. These limitations have been greatly reduced by recent guidance, and have opened the door for normal activities to resume. As Auxiliarists we may need to step back, take a deep breath, and re-engage. We all need to focus on why we actually joined the Auxiliary and recommit ourselves to working together.
District First Southern’ s # 1 mission as we head into the 2023 boating season is the education of the recreational boating public and the promotion of Recreational Boating Safety( RBS). Sadly, in 2021 20 boaters / paddlers / sailors never made it home to their loved ones in D1 South, and preliminary statistics for the 2022 season show that number increased by more than 25 percent. The main increase for 2022 falls in the Sector NY area. It is our responsibility to do what we can to cut that number down. We have the members, missions, and expertise to make that happen. Regardless of your qualifications, the mission, or the amount of time you can devote, we can all make a difference together. Be proactive and search out opportunities in your areas, and work with other divisions and flotillas.
Very soon boating season will be kicking off in our area, and activities will increase. I would ask that everyone consider participating in some upcoming events. May 19 th starts things off with“ National Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day”. It’ s a great opportunity to promote the importance of wearing a life jacket. Please take pictures and get them to our Public Affairs and Publications Staff Officers to show the importance of this message. Then May 20 th – May 26 th is the kickoff of“ National Safe Boating Week”, which will provide unlimited opportunities for flotillas and divisions to promote Recreational Boating Safety through public outreach and special events. Finally, Fleet Week 2023 will be coming to our area, and plenty of opportunities to participate will be available in Manhattan and Staten Island. ALL members of the District are invited to participate!
I am proud and honored to be a member of this awesome team, and to represent all of you as your District Chief of Staff. I am steadfast in my belief that if we work together going forward in 2023 and embrace the challenges it brings us, we will not only succeed as a District, but make a difference in the lives of all we encounter. I wish you all a safe, fun, and memorable boating season.
Michael S. Klacik
Michael S. Klacik District Chief of Staff First Southern District
OVER THE BOW USCGAUX FIRST DISTRICT SOUTHERN REGION- WINTER 2023 5