P a ge 37 t opside V olume 79 , I s s u e 2
My First 100 Days
My first 100 days ! WHEW ! That doesn ’ t even include the 90 days prior when we were invited to the EXCOM calls between October and December of 2020 .
I came into the elected position during the COVID-19 pandemic just as vaccinations were getting started . We are continuing with the virtual meetings from the previous March , in addition to new trainings , to get ourselves back out in the public eye . We are encouraging our members and potential members to focus on the upcoming boating season wearing gloves and masks , following CDC guidance , and filling out forms to be Semper Paratus . It ’ s been a challenge but then again , it makes you think outside the box . That ’ s a good thing .
To make a smooth transition into our new positions we were provided a check list . Some of the items were to be prompt , prepared , use the COLM , knowledge of policy , protocols and wear the uniform correctly . GoToMeetings , Microsoft Teams , NOGI , Zoom , new DIRAUX email and phone numbers could have made any head spin ; nonetheless the EXCOM have all been working together very well like a well-oiled prop . I can ’ t forget DIRAUX , the support we get from Sector Delaware Bay is awesome !
We also experienced our first virtual D-Train and awards ceremony ( which was done successfully ). I do prefer the in person social setting .
I ’ ve experienced working with other agencies from Trenton , NJ and Philadelphia , PA down to Cape Henlopen , DE while gathering information for the ice report earlier this year . That was very cool ( no pun intended ).
I really appreciate the folks I ’ m working with in the central area too ! They are knowledgeable , openminded , outgoing and just a pleasure to work with every day .
In closing , I must acknowledge my supportive family and I am looking forward to the next 265 days with hope that we do get back to a “ somewhat normal ” boating season .
Cynthia Chaimowitz District Captain — Central U . S . Coast Guard Auxiliary
5th District-Northern Region
Cynthia Chaimowitz District Captain — Central