The Dumping GroundsThe Dumping GroundsThe Dumping GroundsThe Dumping Grounds

Editor: Lt Dara Brooks, P

Official Publication of the Detroit Power Squadron

Vol. LXXXI, No. IV, Aug/Sep 2017

United States Power Squadrons®

8

Serving Metro Detroit since 1989Power Squadron member for over 30 years

Enjoy the Yachting Lifestyle without the Burden of Ownership!

Friends and Family Corporate/Office Bachelor/Bachelorette Wedding/Rehearsal Gatherings Parties Parties Ceremonies

www.wendykcharters.com

Serving Metro Detroit since 1989 Power Squadron member for over 30 years

Enjoy the Yachting Lifestyle without the Burden of Ownership!

Friends and Family Corporate/Office Bachelor/Bachelorette Wedding/RehearsalGatherings Parties Parties Ceremonies

www.wendykcharters.com

Serving Metro Detroit since 1989Power Squadron member for over 30 years

Enjoy the Yachting Lifestyle without the Burden of Ownership!

Friends and Family Corporate/Office Bachelor/Bachelorette Wedding/RehearsalGatherings Parties Parties Ceremonies

www.wendykcharters.com

17060 Masonic Blvd., Suite # 101Fraser, Michigan 48026

Phone: 586.296.1312 • Fax: 586.296.0352www.americasfinestprint.com • afpg@mindspring.com

1 /DG

Detroit Power Squadron

detroitpowersquadron.com

INDEX

P2

DPS Calendar of Events

P3 2017 Boating Season

Underway

P4 Safety Message

P5 DPS Updates

P6 The Boater’s Checkup

P7 Honoring Our

Member’s Legacy

2017 Bridge

2017 Appointed Positions

P8 DPS Class Schedule

Message from the SEO

P9,10 From the Editor’s

Laptop: My Favorite Part of Boating Season

P11 Prayer

2017 Committees

P12 What’s In A Boat Name

P14,15 Merit Mark Party

Honors DPS Members

P17,18 Chartering in the BVIs

P19 ExpressSOS.com and

F/Lt John McCurdy, AP

P20,21 Steak & Corn Roast

P22,23 Murphree’s Great Loop

Adventure

P24 DPS Moments

Take A Look Inside This Issue

1/DG

The Dumping Grounds, the

official newsletter of the Detroit

Power Squadron is published six

times a year by DPS. We invite

prospective members to learn

about our organization through

this publication and to feel free to

join us for any and all activities.

We are here to serve the boating

community and those who have a

respect for our waterways. All

articles are to be submitted to the

editor, Dara Brooks, P at

dtolbrk@gmail.com no later than

the 10th of each odd numbered

month. Articles may be reprinted

without permission if credit is

given to the author and the Detroit

Power Squadron with the issue and

page number identified.

Aug/Sep 20

17

P25,26 8 Bells: Barb Couto

P26 Birthdays

P27,28 DPS Serving the Public

2/DG

DETROIT POWER SQUADRON CALENDAR

United States Power Squadrons®

www.usps.org

AUGUST 2017

SEPTEMBER 2017

4 LABOR DAY

7 General Meeting Detroit Yacht Club

1 Riverbank Rd., Detroit

12-17 USPS® Governing Board Dallas, Texas

28 Executive Board Meeting Detroit Yacht Club

1 Riverbank Rd., Detroit

OCTOBER 2017

4 D9 Picnic, Muskegon Great Lakes Marina

"E" Pier

5 USCG Parade Grand Haven

11 Jet Express to Put-N-Bay Departing Detroit

Yacht Club 1 Riverbank Rd., Detroit

18-20 D9 Grand Traverse Bay

Lobster Bake Haserot Park, Northport

25-27 Hydroplane Races Detroit River

31 Executive Board Meeting Detroit Yacht Club

1 Riverbank Rd., Detroit

Access the complete DPS calendar by logging onto www.detroitpowersquadron.com

All General Meetings 1930 All Executive Committee Meetings 1900

No General Meeting in August

Aug/Sep 20

17

6-7 Frostbite Rendezvous Lake St. Clair Metropark

7 General Meeting Lake St. Clair Metropark

13-15 D/9 Fall Conference Treetops Resort,

Gaylord

26 Executive Board Meeting Detroit Yacht Club

1 Riverbank Rd., Detroit

3/DG detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

2017 BOATING SEASON IS WELL UNDERWAY

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

Detroit Power Squad-

ron Vessel Safety Exam-

iners were out in force

Memorial Day Week-

end and through the

month of June perform-

ing vessel safety exami-

nations at the Detroit

Yacht Club, MacRay

Harbor in Harrison

Twp. and Cass Lake in

Oakland County for

marina members and

guests with boats. The

free service offered each

season is just one of the

ways DPS educates

fellow boaters on what

is required to safely

operate their vessels on

our waters.

***

BoatU.S.’s newest mo-

bile app offers the boat-

er membership infor-

mation; the latest data

on tides and weather

information up to five

days ahead of a trip;

using current social

media, text or email

share your location, raft

up anchorage or favor-

ite fishing hole as well

as immediate access to

24/7 tow services.

***

NOAA National Ocean Service found at oceanservice.noaa.gov.

is a searchable site of-fering NOAA nautical chart information; mo-bile sites and apps; a collection of ocean facts; education on the ocean; podcasts; related news around the world

and much, much more.

NEXRAD is one which

allows drilling down to

the area of interest via

map links which will

include weather watch-

es, warnings and adviso-

ries; hazardous weather

outlook; and infor-

mation on the proper-

ties of the earth's water,

especially its movement

in relation to land.

***

Nothing says boat rac-

ing on the Detroit River

like the Hydroplane

Races. August 25th-27th

HydroFest 2017 takes a

front row seat for all

Metro Detroiters. Be-

sides having a new

sponsor in the Metro

Detroit Chevy Dealers

Local Marketing Asso-

ciation the event has

been restructured to

include a new “two rac-

es in two days” format

instead of the one race

over two days. The

updated format features

two sets of preliminary

heats on August 26th

with a winner-take-all

final for the President’s

Cup, followed by three

sets of preliminary

heats on August 27th

with a winner-take-all

final for the Gold Cup.

***

Back on the water for

another year supporting

the event are DPS mem-

bers P/C Mitch Gawry-

siak, JN; Nancy Nivens;

P/C Joe W. Brooks, Jr.,

JN; Dara Brooks, P;

Lt/C Gail Graham, S;

and Dan Cawi, P. P/C

Mitch, the owner of

Sabre Dance IV, a For-

mula 41 is designated

Referee Boat #1 which

is stationed at the

Roostertail turn and

whose function is to

carry the flagman for

each heat, pick up any

debris from water

crashes and respond to

the needs of the race

team. Next to Ref 1 on

the course is Tango 1

skippered by Dan Cawi,

one of several who carry

the rescue divers for

moments when water

rescue is important. All

others are designated

on water crew. ≈

Aug/Sep 20

17

4/DG

SAFETY MESSAGE

by P/C Diane Dawes, JN

www.usps.org

On 21 August, we will have a total solar eclipse that can be seen in the U.S. This isn’t new news. We, should be able to see at least a more than partial part of it. It will be at its full extent between 1300 and 1530 with max viewing at 1427.

If you do want to watch the eclipse cycle, just remember not to look at it dead on. Do like we did as kids and make a viewing post with a box, either tin foil on the back side or a mirror, and a hole in the box for the sun to give us the show. Again, knowing the weather like we do, we probably will have a cloudy day but should still see an effect as the sky will darken.

The second thing I want to talk about is the fact that there have been a lot of write ups and news reports of various summer accidents, missing and found people, tragedy etc. It is probably no more than any other year but what sticks out is the number of people who are saved and how many of the life savers that have perished.

In one report, and this one is the one that probably bothers me the most, is someone fell overboard. This called for a man overboard drill. From what was told in the article, the person was saved but the savior perished. Do you ask why? He didn’t fasten his life jacket before he went in the water and the jacket came off. Tragic.

How long does it take to fasten a life jacket in an emergency? Well, if you don’t have one designated for you alone, it takes a minimum of a minute depending on adjustments and much more if the straps don’t hold. That is the difference.

Before taking a cruise next time, take a few minutes and get a life jacket sized for you. It could mean the difference between life and death. ≈

Have a happy rest of your summer.

Aug/Sep 20

17

United States Power Squadrons®

“I cannot change the direction of the wind,

but I can adjust my sails to always reach

my destination.”

- Jimmy Dean

5/DG detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

Update

P/C Al McCurdy, SN who has

been recovering from a fall that

broke his knee cap has moved in

with his son Craig. He is doing

well and can be reached on his

cell phone.

***

P/C Vince Cooley, JN our SEO and

wife Lt Delphine Cooley, S have a

newly acquired 1992 35’ Carver Aft

Cabin Motor Yacht named “Loaf’

N Around”. They’ve been busy

getting to know her, getting her

fitted-out and brought her to the

Steak and Corn Roast.

***

Mike Murphree and wife Jonell

departed for their Great Loop

Adventure at 10:00 am on July

15th.

COVER DESIGN

The cover was designed to be interesting, perpetual and to

symbolize the contents of each issue. The contents com-

municate opportunities for learning including boating

courses, seminars and safety information; references to the

fun during the season; larger impacts such as the environ-

ment; important squadron information; recogni-

tion for jobs well done; tributes and a little bit of

history. Each issue will be designed to inspire,

inform, educate and entertain. ≈

Aug/Sep 20

17

"Sailors work like horses at sea and spend their money like asses ashore."

- Anonymous

www.usps.org

For seasoned boaters as well as

the novice there are a few things

that we may wish to review. Often,

without meaning to and without

regular use we forget most of

what we’ve learned. Here are a few

things to ponder.

The front end of a boat is the bow

and the rear end is the stern.

When facing forward, toward the

bow the left side is the port side

and the right side is the star-

board. Turning around and facing

the stern one is looking aft.

The term small craft is often used

interchangeably with boat.

A wharf is generally a structure

parallel to the shore while a pier

projects out from the shore. A pile

or piling as it is sometimes re-

ferred to are substantial stakes

driven into the bedrock under the

water. A group of

piles driven

close together

and bound with

wire cables into

a single struc-

ture is called a

dolphin. The one

shown in this

photograph is

located at the end of DYC’s Mid-

way Dock on the Detroit River.

In case someone falls overboard

there are a number of mecha-

nisms one can use to offer assis-

tance keeping in mind the severi-

ty of the situation. Life rings are

one such op-

tion. The

horseshoe life

ring shown in

this photo-

graph is just

one of many

life rings avail-

able in today’s market that can

help save a life.

There’s nothing more powerful

than improving your skill level.

Take a USPS® course or seminar,

learn and then take the boat out

and practice. Look on page 8 for

opportunities to improve your

boating skills. ≈

United States Power Squadrons®

THE BOATER’S CHECKUP

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

6/DG

Aug/Sep 20

17

7/DG

HONORING OUR

MEMBER’S LEGACY

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

2017 Bridge

Commander

Keith S. Hawkins, S

Hawkeyeproductions

@peoplepc.com

313-345-1488

Executive Officer

Gail Graham, S

citi241@yahoo.com

586-854-3637

Educational Officer

Vincent A. Cooley, JN

htvac@yahoo.com

313-320-3640

Administrative Officer

Wendy Caldwell

Wendycaldwell@hotmail.com

586-212-7388

Secretary

Lt/C Nancy Nevins, S

mitchnan@comcast.net

586-468-1180

Treasurer

Anthony Drewek, P

TonyD@mirealsource.com

586-725-7378

Aug/Sep 20

17

Picture me at a table stacked with books,

binders and boxes and more stacked on the

floor waiting to be opened and cataloged.

All the while I am thinking, “what a treasure

we have here”.

“What treasure?” you ask. The treasure be-

stowed upon DPS by P/Lt/C Dick Walega,

SN. For most of his adult life he scoured flea

markets, visited second hand stores,

searched E-Bay and garage sales looking for

items to add to his collection. He favored

the American Practical Navigator, Chapman

publications and anything about navigation.

What he amassed was a collection so large

that it requires a permanent home.

At our Fall General Meeting I announced

that I was taking steps to search for an ap-

propriate home for the collection. Called

the Walega Collection, I am pleased to an-

nounce that The Detroit Historical Collec-

tion’s Dossin Museum has accepted the

items gathered by our dedicated member.

In this way they will be preserved and at the

same time honor his legacy. ≈

2017 Appointed Positions

Flag Lieutenant

F/Lt John McCurdy, AP

Asst. Educational Officer

P/C David A. Caldwell, JN

Asst. Treasurer

1st/Lt Marlene Drewek

Property Manager

Lt Dennis Pierce

Chaplain P/C Douglas R. Rocho, P

www.usps.org 8/DG

United States Power Squadrons®

DETROIT POWER SQUADRON

2017 CLASS SCHEDULE

Date Day Event Time Place

Sep 6 Wed

Seamanship

(9 sessions)

chairman: Bob Zaleski

1900-

2100

Detroit

Yacht Club

Seamanship

Piloting

Date Day Event Time Place

Sep 12 Tue Piloting

(9 sessions)

1900-

2100

Detroit

Yacht Club

Aug/Sep 20

17

It’s amazing how time flies isn’t it?

Here we are, right in the middle of the boating season. All of our Ameri-

ca’s Boating Courses have been completed for the year. They were held at Mac

& Ray’s, the Detroit Yacht Club and at Kean’s Marina. I offer my congratula-

tions to all of the students that successfully completed the course. I also offer

my sincere thanks to the instructors that gave of their time and efforts to

make these classes successful. In addition, I would like to thank Mac & Ray’s,

Kean’s Marina and the Detroit Yacht Club for providing space and accommo-

dations for our classes.

Our “Seamanship” and “Piloting” courses will be offered in September at the

DYC. If you are interested, please pre-register via our website at:

detroitpowersquadron.com under the education tab ASAP. The Education

Department has also been involved in some new activities. One of those was a

booth at the “Sprint and Splash” event at the “Lake St. Clair Metro

Park” (formerly known as Metro Beach). We had the opportunity to promote

the United States Power Squadrons, the Detroit Power Squadron and the need

for boating education. Thanks to Wendy Caldwell and Nancy Nevins for or-

ganizing the event for us. What a good time that was for all !! ≈

MESSAGE FROM THE SEO

detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

From the Editor’s Laptop

Air crisp and clean Morning dew frosted On the dock and Electrical boxes Slippery decks Made for careful baby steps As I walked up the ramp. Then I saw it Like a beautifully wrapped Gift unfolding The light from the sun Peeking from behind the trees Far away on the horizon. A powdery yellow A touch of orange Ripples of light Dance on the water like glass Looks almost like a mirror. A crisp, cool mist In the air touched my cheeks And moved through my hair. I paused to take it in Like a needed breath First, to fill my lungs

Then my heart. The early morning beauty Was there to behold. To snap and store in my brain In vivid detail For future moments of Serenity. It was there! The wonders that await us Just on the other side. It was there! God’s beautiful kick start, A quiet beckoning Into the new day. It was there! The sun rising slowly And with majesty To light the day and my world. It was there! The sunrise.

- Lt Dara Brooks, P

When I think of all the reasons I like this boating lifestyle

I am taken back to a rendezvous a few years ago, 2009 to

be exact. Being an early riser I am always available for the

sunrise, taking in the crisp air and cool breeze. I was so

filled with awe that after my walk I penned a few words

that talked about one of my favorite parts of the boating

season.

Aug/Sep 20

17

9/DG

MY FAVORITE PART of BOATING SEASON

10/DG

I reached out to my fellow D9 Editors to chime in and share their “favorite

things”. Here are a few words expressed about this wonderful thing we call

boating. Thanks to you all. ≈

"My favorite part of boating season is…”

Launching my sail boat into clear Northern Lake Huron in a mild SW

breeze, sail thru the Les Cheneaux Islands, smell the pine trees, anchor in a cove by Government Island, swim on the sand beach, fry up a fresh fish for dinner, read a book, play my guitar during the evening, and sleep on the boat at night. Commander Ron Schwartz, SN, Ann Arbor Power & SailCommander Ron Schwartz, SN, Ann Arbor Power & Sail

***

Our favorite part of boating season is our annual trip from our home port

of Grand Haven to Drummond Island and back, stopping at Northern Michigan's great ports along the way. Most memorable were the many weeks spent on Mackinac and Drummond Islands with friends, kids, and grandkids on those trips.

Dave and Linda Tuls, Kalamazoo Sail & Power SquadronDave and Linda Tuls, Kalamazoo Sail & Power Squadron

***

We have four favorites: 1) The annual Boats and Brats held in South Ha-

ven the third Saturday each June. South Bend and Kalamazoo Squadrons co-host the event. Our Vessel Examiners each get at least 5 safety inspec-tions done, while the others grill brats and serve all the fixings for anyone

in South Haven. 2)Teaching children and parents about life jackets and water safety at the Portage Family Fish Fair. 3) Our summer potluck and

4) Honoring the US Coast Guard by marching in the Grand Haven parade.

Commander Gary Bleyer, P and P/C Lyndell Bleyer, P Commander Gary Bleyer, P and P/C Lyndell Bleyer, P Kalamazoo Sail and Power SquadronKalamazoo Sail and Power Squadron

***

Being out doors in the fresh air and sunshine relaxing with family and

friends. You are free from the responsibility of home, present in the mo-ment just enjoying it.

Lt/C Rose Stano, P Lt/C Rose Stano, P -- Grosse Pointe Power SquadronGrosse Pointe Power Squadron

MY FAVORITE PART of BOATING SEASON, cont’d

www.usps.org

Aug/Sep 20

17

10/DG

United States Power Squadrons®

Dumping Grounds

Editor

Lt Dara Brooks, P

dtolbrk@gmail.com

Support

Deena Luck

F/Lt John McCurdy, AP

Lt Dennis Pierce

P/C Joe Brooks, Jr., JN

Dumping Grounds

Photographers

D/Lt LeRoy Strey, P

P/Stf/C Sally Lemus, P

Lt Joan Stoll

Advertising

Lt Ed Bolsendahl

Webmaster

Lt Robert Estabrook, AP

bestabrook@

detroitpowersquadron.com

Circulation

P/C Mitch Gawrysiak, JN

Lt/C Nancy Nevins, S

Historian

P/C David Caldwell, JN

2017 Committees

PRAYER

Rev. Pierce Middleton, USPS® Chaplain

“Lord GOD Almighty,

Who hast laid the foundations of the round world and

shut up the doors of the sea and appointed the stars in

their courses, we beseech Thee to lighten our dark-

ness, guide our feet into Thy ways, and increase our

knowledge of the laws of both

Thy visible and invisible Creation,

that we may learn to obey one no less than the other,

and eventually come into Thy heavenly kingdom.

Amen”

Excerpted from “A Prayer”

The Ensign

Volume L * Number Three * March 1962

detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

Aug/Sep 20

17

11/DG

Vintage Ads like this one below

take you back to an earlier time carrying

with it long ago moments and hopefully

smiles. This ad appeared in several early

issues of the DYC Main Sheet.

now it’s Pepsi for those who think young

PEPSI-COLA BOTTLING COMPANY OF DETROIT 20021 EXETER AVENUE DETROIT 3 MICHIGAN TELEPHONE FOREST 6-5050

To realize the value of studying ask

the test taker who aced it.

To realize the value of training ask

the Olympian.

To realize the value of a surgeon ask

the patient.

To realize the value of a deadline

ask the editor. No matter the snags

in your schedule or your memory

lapses, if you owe an article time will

not wait. Make a practice of prepar-

ing your piece in such a way that

when the deadline arrives you are

prepared to email it right away …

better yet, ahead of time.

Treat time, your editor and the read-

ership of The Dumping Grounds

with courtesy and consideration. It

will be appreciated.

DEADLINES, DEADLINES, DEADLINES!!!!!!

WHAT’S IN A BOAT NAME?

LITTLE DEVIL II

24’ Seabird Inboard Runabout

Owned by P/C Terry Dawes, AP and P/C Diane Dawes, JN

The 24’ Seabird was named in honor of Terry’s grandfather Bailey Pollard

Dawes (1898-1976), a machinist, speed boat enthusiast, boat designer and

inventor. The manufacturer of the nationally distributed Dawes Clipper

he was awarded several patents including one in 1949 for a rotary engine

which turned out to be economical to manufacture in any desired size

and economical to operate as compared to similar engines of the time.

Another patent awarded in 1962 introduced an exceptional outboard

drive and rudder system. His company also supplied wood boats specifi-

cally designed for the Cypress Garden Water Shows in Florida.

Terry’s dad Chuck Dawes purchased one of the last Dawes Clippers, hav-

ing it shipped from California to Michigan. Known to be fast, agile and

shaped like a bullet it was said to “run like the devil”. So when Terry and

Diane bought their first boat, rumored to have been used by the Coast

Guard it was fast and reminded them of the Dawes Clipper. So it follows

that Terry and Diane decided to name their boat Little Devil II.

- Lt Dara Brooks, P

12/DG www.usps.org

Aug/Sep 20

17

United States Power Squadrons®

Phone: (313) 823-1900info@detroitboatbasin.comwww.detroitboatbasin.com

DETROIT BOAT BASIN

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29108 HARPER • (586) 778-4380CORNER OF BARTON • ST. CLAIR SHORES

27920 Gratiot Ave.Roseville, MI 48066

Career Wear ~ Police • Fire • Postal • YachtingPower Squadron • Blazers • Shirts • Personalized Jackets

(586) 775-3738Fax (586) 775-0910

Email: douglasuniforms@yahoo.com

U.S. Power Squadron andYacht Club Officers Uniforms

James DouglasOwner

“Get It Done Your Way”

• AMERICAN• GREEK

• ITALIAN

35450 Jefferson Ave.Harrison Twp., MI

www.polonia-restaurant.net

14/DG

Merit Mark Party

Honors DPS Members

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

Thinking outside the box was exactly what P/C Ron West, P did when he orga-nized the DPS Merit Mark Party cele-brating the contri-butions of members for the year 2015. Postponed because

of the activities generated for the DPS 100th Anniversary in 2016 the event was well worth the wait. Held at the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center at 1801 Atwater Street located a stone’s throw from William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor along Detroit’s water-front and the entrance to the Dequindre Cut the event offered much.

According to Promotional Agent Jackie Hoskins who handled our event “the facility which opened July 20, 2015 brings “Up North Downtown” offering indoor, hands-on, interactive exhibits and experiences reflecting Michigan’s out-of-doors”. Michigan is ripe with many natural resources not limited to our Great Lakes and smaller waterways.

P/C Ron says, “Unlike other squadrons the Detroit Power Squadron services a huge geographical area. I wanted the event to be centrally located near our home base the DYC and something different for members”.

www.usps.org

P/Cs Ron West, P and Joe Brooks, JN

posing in front of the Horton STOL Craft

Super Skymaster.

P/C Doug Rocho, P enjoying the indoor

waterfall.

Aug/Sep 20

17

United States Power Squadrons®

15/DG

Merit Mark Party, cont’d

The event offered us time to experi-ence the numerous displays within the center which included an edu-cational component promoting the understanding of wildlife, ecosys-tems and habitat, hunting, fishing and trapping, forestry, conservation, camping, outdoor recreation, cul-tural resources, watershed and river management, invasive species and much more. A private room offered great views of the water front, a setting for mingling and a

wonderful meal. ≈

Detroit Power Squadron

detroitpowersquadron.com

Board of Directors P/C Joe Brooks, Jr., JN

P/C Bill Smith, AP Lt John C. Nelson, P

P/C John Broadwell, P Lt Ed Bolsendahl

Audit Committee P/Lt/C Joan Broadwell, P

P/C John Broadwell, P Lt Maureen Smith

Vessel Safety Examiners Committee

P/C Jerry Stoll, AP P/C Mitch Gawrysiak, JN

Lt/C Nancy Nevins, S

Nominating Committee

P/C Daniel Bodnar, AP P/C Diane Dawes, JN P/C Ronald West, P

Membership

Committee P/C John Broadwell, P

P/Lt/C Joan Broadwell, P

Roster Committee Lt Maureen Smith

P/C William Smith, AP

Rules Committee P/D/C Bryan Bartlett, SN

2017 Committees

Top: Michigan female Eagle

Middle: Steve Carter, S practicing some sharp

shooting in the simulator

Bottom: LtoR: John Steiner, S and wife Elaine,

P/Lt/C Joyce Strey, P; Leslie Bodnar; Lt

Maureen Smith; P/C Bill Smith, AP; Lt John

Nelson, P; Lt/C Nancy Nevins, S; and Lt/C

Gail Graham, S.

Aug/Sep 20

17

For more information, contact Membership Director313.824.1200, ext. 233 | Membership@dyc.com

One Riverbank Road, Detroit, Michiganwww.dyc.com

Discover America’s friendly fun yacht club!

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• Cleaning and Detailing• Fiberglass Repair • Deep Water Access

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AT:www.southrivermarine.com

Please call for more information: (586) 783-6600

30099 South River RoadHarrison Township, MI 48045

P.O. Box 21746 • Detroit, MI 48221Business: (313) 341-1716

Keith Hawkins Cell: (313) 445-6269 Lucille Hawkins Cell: (313) 445-6268

E-Mail: hawkeyeproductions@peoplepc.comWeb: www.hawkeyeproductionsinc.us

HawkEye Productions, Inc.

Betsey Ross Too• Flags • Applique • Embroidery

Lauren Novack(734) 812.3272

528 Saint Clair • Grosse Pointe, MI 48230betsyrosstoo@gmail.com

17/DG

CHARTERING IN THE BVIs

A Visit to the Birmingham Power Squadron

by Lt Dara Brooks, P and Lt/C Greg Allen, JN

Most boaters dream of seeing the islands while at the helm of their own

vessel. Most don’t have the dollars, time, skill or gumption to make it

happen. Birmingham Power Squadron members Lt/C Greg Allen, JN

and wife Mary are not like most boaters. Strong advocates of chartering

in order to experience unfamiliar places while traveling the waters they

are interested in the thrill and adventure of sailing. The couple first

chartered a vessel in 2012 sailing the British Virgin Isles then again in

2014 exploring St. Lucia and the Grenadines. In February 2017, it was

back to the BVI's for a third charter. The trip began when Greg, Mary

and two more couples flew into St Thomas. From there they took a ferry

to Road Town, Tortola in the BVIs. Their seven night charter departed

from Tortola. They then sailed to Norman Island, to Cane Garden Bay,

Jost Van Dyke, to Trellis Bay, to Virgin Gorda and back to Tortola. Some

of their favorite stops included The Pirates’ Bite at Norman Island,

home of Willie T’s Floating Bar, The Indians (for snorkeling) and the

Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda.

“Being able to explore the various ports and the natural wonders of the

Caribbean at your own pace is a gift that results from careful preparation

and planning. For starters, browsing the cruising guides and local marine

charts is a must. However, the real enabler has to come from putting in

the time to learn mariner’s skills. USPS® boating courses have resulted in

a gained confidence that has made these excursions possible. Chartering

a sailboat in unfamiliar waters has offered an opportunity to utilize

learned navigation skills while exploring the island lifestyles and interact-

“Twenty years from now you will

be more disappointed by the things

that you didn’t do than by the

ones you did do, so throw off

the bowlines, sail away from

safe harbor, catch the trade

winds in your sails”.

“Explore. Dream. Discover.”

- Mark Twain

detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

Aug/Sep 20

17

18/DG

CHARTERING in the BVIs

cont’d

www.usps.org

ing with the diverse local inhabit-

ants. Great food, great weather,

and lasting friendships make these

times never forgotten. Each year

yields new stories, new friends and

a lifetime of memories.

There is no such thing as a bad

itinerary in the BVI’s. No matter

which islands you choose to visit

and in what order, you will find

paradise in every new discovery”.

Greg’s presentation at the June

General Meeting of the Birming-

ham Power Squadron held at

Shield’s Pizza on Maple Road in

Troy, MI explained the ins and

outs of chartering and the ups and

downs of living aboard for extend-

ed periods of time as a couple and

with others. He discussed the pros

and cons of hiring a captain vs

bareboat chartering; the various

types of vessels available and when

one is better than the other. He

took the guess work out of the

process by answering questions

like:

How much does it really cost?

What is required? Is there such

thing as trip protection insurance

for charters and more. He ex-

plained the best times to travel (off

vs high season); obvious, hidden

and under estimated costs; im-

portant provisioning decisions;

and usually missed things to con-

sider. Having a good time and hav-

ing a safe adventure were the keys

to his presentation. Though not for

the person who likes every modern

convenience this life’s journey is

one that feeds the wanderlust.

Greg and Mary are a living exam-

ple of how being members of

USPS® and a local squadron can

improve and enrich your life. ≈

Aug/Sep 20

17

United States Power Squadrons®

19/DG detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

As we move into the new age of electronic compli-

ance many things are changing. The services of the

Secretary of State are no exception. Today online

services are the key to 24/7 services. Currently only

10% of the population uses the State’s online ser-

vices located at ExpressSOS.com. Secretary of State

Ruth Johnson wants to increase that number. In

order to create awareness a contest was held dur-

ing the days of the North American International

Auto Show January 8th-22nd. Participants were

asked to name the Kangaroo mascot associated

with the online service and tagline, “Hop online, not inline. It’s pain-

less”. 900 entries were counted. Of those they narrowed it down to 7

finalists and F/Lt McCurdy’s was selected as the winner. Soon after,

he received a personal congratulatory phone call from Secretary John-

son.

On Thursday, May 12th Cathleen Similar, Communications Specialist

for Secretary Johnson and Walter V. Johnson, the State’s Videogra-

pher presented John with a plaque recognizing his success and filmed

the event at his home. On hand were yours truly, Lt Dara Brooks, P

(editor, DPS Dumping Grounds), Lt Dennis Pierce (DPS Property

Manager) and friend Diane Cunningham.

The winning slogan “MI-ROO” will publicize the State’s online ser-

vices. Look for it soon in print and online media as well as in your

local Secretary of State office.

Congratulations John!!! Our very own MI-ROO!!! ≈

BIG WIN FOR DPS and F/Lt JOHN McCURDY, AP

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

Aug/Sep 20

17

This three day event started on Friday afternoon with boats and land

lubbers alike descending on Lake St. Clair Metropark, formerly

known as Metropolitan “Metro” Beach in Harrison Twp. The tent was

set up by hard working members and preparations made for other

members’ arrival. At 6:00pm we convened at a local restaurant to

break bread. Back to the boats in preparation for Saturday which is

the official Steak & Corn Roast Cookout. As is our tradition Sunday

the Commander cooks breakfast for members.

This year the event included our neighbors the Port Huron Power

Squadron. This joint DPS

PHPS involvement con-

tinues from our Game

Night earlier in the sea-

son. PHPS Commander

Tom Fisher, SN brought

PHPS members along for

this joint weekend of fun.

Friday night The Bath

House Bistro in Mount Clemens held two long

tables of members. After a great meal and con-

versation all made their way upstairs to the

featured attraction … feather bowling.

This event has been on my bucket list of activi-

ties to try since I heard about it. There was lots

of boasting leading to the men challenging the

women. This led to surging testosterone, much show-

ing off, continued boasting and loads of fun for time

well spent!

Saturday the grill and boiling pot were fired up so

that members could show off their culinary skills

while attending their own steaks and partaking of

20/DG www.usps.org

United States Power Squadrons®

JOINT DETROIT and MOUNT CLEMENS POWER SQUADRON

STEAK & CORN ROAST

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

Aug/Sep 20

17

21/DG detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

sweet, freshly boiled corn. The collection of dishes brought to pass

were mouthwatering and waist expanding. Loads of fun was had play-

ing corn hole, a game requiring bean bags to be tossed a great dis-

tance with hopes of landing on the board or better yet a hole-in-one.

The point system and rules were a little whacky but it was great fun.

We don’t know who was the loudest and most enthusiastic amongst

the players Cheryll Nelson, Deena Luck, Lt/C Wendy Caldwell or

yours truly. It was Wendy, no Deena, ah, Cheryll … hands down it was

Deena yelling her little heart out and creating a very competitive fun

filled time of laugher, skill and blunder.

Sunday was the traditional breakfast prepared by the Commander.

This year both Commanders pooled their re-

sources changing the traditional menu of eggs,

bacon, pancakes and Bloody Marys. Instead, the

breakfast featured juice, boiled and scrambled

eggs, a fruit bowl, watermelon, donuts and bagels

… a rude awakening for the carnivores and drink-

ers amongst us.

Overall, the event brought out smiling faces not

seen in a while accompanying lots of hugging,

kissing and catching up. De-

signed to let our hair down

and enjoy fellow squadron

members in the bright sun-

shine of our beautiful Michi-

gan outdoors it also helped

bond two sister squadrons.

Thanks to all who helped

plan and execute the event but an especially hardy thanks to our Ad-

min Lt/C Wendy Caldwell whose infectious enthusiasm always helps

to elevate things just a bit more! ≈

JOINT DETROIT and MOUNT CLEMENS POWER SQUADRON

STEAK & CORN ROAST

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

22/DG detroitpowersquadron.com

United States Power Squadrons®

MURPHREE’S GREAT LOOP ADVENTURE

Mike and Jonell Murphree

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

Mike Murphree and I spent a

great deal of time between emails,

chats and my visit to Miller Ma-

rine, home of Getting’ Looped

discussing the day he and wife

Jonell will launch

their great ad-

venture. With

maintenance

logs, checklists,

port recommen-

dations, experi-

ence going

through locks,

learning the ca-

pabilities of their

boat and them-

selves, input

from other loop-

ers and two years

of stringent re-

search and prep-

aration the Murphrees have their

plan in place.

They’ve been blessed in nearly

every aspect of their planning.

They were able to lease their Roy-

al Oak home to a Pittsburgh doc-

tor arriving for a one year residen-

cy at Beaumont Hospital. Mike’s

December 2016 retirement has

afforded them the time and re-

sources for the journey. The ac-

quisition of their 43’ Viking Dou-

ble Cabin that will carry them on

their great adventure was a result

of a chance meeting of a work

mate whose

parents Dave

and Michele

Sylver were

Loopers and

their recom-

mendation to

join AGLCA

(America’s

Great Loopers

Cruise Associa-

tion). While

attempting to

narrow down

the type of boat

they might pur-

chase for the

journey the Murphrees participat-

ed in a Trent Severn rendezvous

with another couple with purchas-

ing their ’43 Hatteras in mind.

During this rendezvous they ran

into the Sylvers who’d done the

Great Loop multiple times and

was looking to move into a larger

vessel and a deal was struck.

Formally known as Just Us the 43’

Aug/Sep 20

17

23/DG www.usps.org

MURPHREE’S GREAT LOOP ADVENTURE

cont’d

Detroit Power Squadron

Viking has undergone

extensive upgrades in-

cluding new engines,

transmissions, a generator, elec-

tronics, canvas, heads, windlass,

flooring, furniture, lighting and

new kitchen appliances. Now

known as Gettin‘ Looped, the cou-

ple has multiple AGLCA rendez-

vous under their belt; extensive

interaction with wanna be, new

and experienced loopers; events

checking out boats that have

made the voyage as well as classes

and tutorials on looping.

The 6,000 mile journey which

includes the Great Lakes, Chicago,

the Mississippi River, the Tennes-

see-Tombigbee Waterway, the

Gulf Coast and Atlantic inter-

coastal waterways begins July 15th

starting with Lake Huron and

Georgian Bay. The year long jour-

ney is tentatively designed to

make 50 mile a day journeys with

some built in long term stopovers,

10 days at Rogersville, Alabama,

one month in the Marco Island/

Naples/Fort Meyers area and one

month in Key West. All other

stops and layover will be generat-

ed by the wanderlust and the spir-

it of fun and adventure.

In order to stay connected to the

outside world the Murphrees have

installed a RedPort Halo Wi-Fi

Extender which will pull in a Wi-

Fi signal from 7 miles away. They

will use it only while docked at

marinas to update the blog, pay

bills and communicate via email.

To help manage their journey they

have installed Active Captain on

both their IPAD and laptop. The

web based service offers ratings

from other boat captains and

helps them in numerous areas

including:

Marinas and anchor spots along with ratings and comments from other captains who have stayed there

GPS Coordinates to plug into the Chart plotter

Contact information including phone, address and VHF ra-dio channel information for places of interest

Transient slip availability Cost per night, week, month Fuel availability, and Mechanical service capability

Follow the Murphrees

on their blog at

https://gettinlooped2017.com/.≈

Aug/Sep 20

17

24/DGwww.usps.org

Aug/Sep 20

17

DPS MOMENTS

Mike Murphree and Gettin’

Looped at Miller Marina

Remembering Barb Couto.

DPS members Lt/C Nancy Nevins, P/C Vince Cooley, JN, Delphine Cooley and Lt/C Wendy

Caldwell manning booth at Splish Splash event at the Lake St. Clair Metropark.

United States Power Squadrons®

25/DG detroitpowersquadron.com

“I can’t say enough about the generosity of Barb. Me and wife Mary were regu-

lar friends of the Coutos for many years. Barb was so helpful when Mary

passed away, making all the arrangements during that stressful period”.

- P/C John Neubert, AP

“We remember their great friendship which included meeting the Coutos for

down time at the Estabrook cabin”.

- Lt John, Nelson, P and wife Cheryll

“We’ve had some very wonderful people in the squadron. Barb was one of

them. She was a gourmet cook and held committee meetings in their home”.

- Lt/C Leroy Strey and P/Lt/C Joyce Strey, S

“We remember doing lots of boating with the couple on their 26’ Sportscraft

and working along with Lt Bob Estabrook, AP on Gil’s Commander’s Ball.

They were so much fun!”

- Ron Dawes, P and wife Daryl Dawes

Aug/Sep 20

17

Detroit Power Squadron

EIGHT BELLS

REMEMBERING BARBARA COUTO

by Lt Dara Brooks, P

Family and friends gathered Thurs-

day, June 29th to say farewell to

Barb Couto. A longtime member of

DPS and the Fraternal Order of the

Eagles, she was the widow of 1985

DPS Commander Gil Couto, AP.

Barb passed away the afternoon of

June 23rd at her home. People from

all aspects of her life gathered at the

Schwarzkoff Funeral Home in

Mount Clemens to honor her

memory. I spoke with a high school

classmate who said that she and

Barb had just spoken concerning the

planning of their annual high school

reunion.

Immediately following many gath-

ered at her Harrison Twp. home

where memories of the woman said

to be a great friend and all around

wonderful person were shared. A

military wife, she and hubby mar-

ried in Anchorage Alaska and were

married up until his death in Janu-

ary of 2000. She and husband Gil

were said to give the best parties.

And cook! Barb loved to cook and

everyone looked forward to her lat-

est creation. She loved to sew and

read but especially loved being with

her grandchildren. ≈

25/DG

26/DGwww.usps.org

8/3 Krystin Stahl

8/5 William McLaughlin

8/19 Alita Irwin

8/20 Mary Owiesny

8/21 Bernie Buhlinger

8/22 Wendy Caldwell

8/22 Dan Cawi

8/25 LeRoy Strey

8/30 Jerry Stoll

9/1 Richard Shelby

9/2 Ben Cabbil

9/6 Ed Bolsendahl

9/6 Irene Kelly-Bower

9/6 Erv Unger

9/11 Dennis Pierce

9/12 William Amman

9/16 Tammy Harbert

9/17 Richard Keefer

9/21 Gail Graham

9/22 Mitch Gawrysiak

9/23 Al Minsterman

9/25 Naomi Cook

9/28 Rose Marie Addy

9/30 Trevor Stahl

9/30 Richard Struthers

AUGUST & SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS

United States Power Squadrons®

EIGHT BELLS

REMEMBERING BARBARA COUTO

Aug/Sep 20

17

“Barb and I became fast friends once Dave and I were involved with DPS. They

would occasionally take their mobile home to rendezvous and we would party

inside there, if the weather wasn't cooperating! She loved to cook and had the

gift of hospitality, always opening her home to squadron members for hosting

parties. She and husband, PC/Gil Couto, helped paint the windows of our

lighthouse centerpieces for Dave's Commander's Ball in 1999. She then

opened her house so we could have our wrap up/thank you dinner for our

committee. We cooked side by side, many times and laughed all the

while. She was always in the "thick" of things helping where she could. I al-

ways felt she was a great mentor to me. When our daughter Kelly joined the

Army, Barb stepped up and took me to the PX at Selfridge to make sure Kelly

had extra clothing, and essentials for boot camp. She helped me understand

more about military life, since she had first hand experience when Gil was in

the Air Force and they lived overseas for many years. She had a sharp mind,

was fiercely dedicated to her husband and two daughters, Kristy and Car-

la. When she became a grandmother, she was over the moon with joy. She

was a fighter! I will miss her energy and laughter”.

- Lt/C Wendy Caldwell

27/DG detroitpowersquadron.com

Detroit Power Squadron

DPS SERVING THE PUBLIC

To those thinking about joining our organization I wanted to share a few thoughts with you. Water is a common denomina-tor no matter your age, income or heritage. The average person is made up of about 60% water with age, health, sex and weight being major factors. About 71% of the earth is covered in water with our oceans holding just over 96% of that. Based on these facts it’s safe to say that water is a major part of our lives.

Here in Michigan we are sur-rounded by one of the greatest gifts to mankind … fresh water. The love of water is the common thread that binds DPS members together. With that love must come respect because though beautiful in its fluidity, ability to mesmerize us as the surround-ing light is picked up by the ever changing waves and the sparkles of sunlight dancing upon the surface water is a beauty not to be taken for granted. It can ca-ress us and slowly lull us to sleep. It can act as our aid when we need that something extra to make it to the finish line. Water can also be our greatest night-mare when angered speaking volumes through slamming, high waves.

Here at the Detroit Power

Squadron we respect the water. That is why we offer such a vari-ety of learning opportunities to help the recreational boater en-joy this lifestyle. Broken up into two classifications, “Advanced Grades” and “Elective Courses” our classes are taught by sea-soned power and sail boaters with years of real life experience.

The Advanced Grades include Seamanship, Piloting, Advanced Piloting, Junior Navigation and Navigation. Our Elective Courses are designed to put the flesh on the bones so to speak, to draw music from the instrument and to round out the boating experi-ence with those tiny threads that weave together the final tapestry of the finished piece. They in-clude Cruise Planning, Engine Maintenance, Weather, Marine Electronics, Sail and also In-structor Development. You will be surprised how much you know but especially how much more you can learn.

Check us out at www.detroitpowersquadron.com.

We’re here to give you that extra edge. ≈

- Lt Dara Brooks, P

Aug/Sep 20

17

28/DG

United States Power Squadrons®

DPS SERVING THE PUBLIC

Mike’s Marine in St. Clair Shores

was the place to be on Saturday,

June 17th as they kicked off Fa-

ther’s Day. The place was a virtu-

al mecca of activity with pop-

corn, hotdogs and ice cold wa-

ter. JL Audio provided the music

and explained their system capa-

bilities; 3M was on hand demon-

strating their cleaning and wax-

ing products on a very old ves-

sel; TowBoatUS® offered infor-

mation on protecting your

boatng investment; and of

course DPS. Our table located

inside the store along the path of

buyers was manned throughout

the day by members sharing

information about our services.

P/C Doug Rocho, S and Lt/C

Gail Graham, S (pictured below)

pitched in with a US Coast

Guard representative to counsel,

offer tips and sign up boaters for

VSEs. It was another way we

serve the boating public by mak-

ing ourselves available. ≈

- Lt Dara Brooks, P

Aug/Sep 20

17

www.usps.org

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR AUGUST 2018

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