February 2012 Issue of The Great Lakes Mariner Magazine

The Great Lakes Mariner

Photo by Dave Spengler

Bring your family to Put-in-Bay? That’s what I did, and we had a blast, with the right preparation of course - Pg. 26

Photo Courtesy of Cruisers Yachts

A Quick Look - Pg.11 Cruisers 41 Cantius 4

Mutt of the Month - Pg. 7 What's Up Dock - Pg. 24 State by State - Pg. 58 Classifieds - Pg. 67 The advertising deadline for the next issue of The Great Lakes Mariner is Friday March 23, 2012.

A special thanks to Dave Spengler for the use of his photographs. More of Dave’s photos can be seen at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/davey153

The Great Lakes Mariner

The Beneteau 40 A power-boater gets introduced to a spacious, capable, and beautiful sailboat - Pg.44

Cover photo and inset photo are courtesy of Beneteau USA

Formula

The Formula 34PC A luxurious boat, that is great for entertaining, and built to last - Pg. 17

Photo Courtesy of Formula Boats

The Great Lakes Mariner

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Recall

Mustang Survival Recalls Two PFD Models

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ustang Survival has issued a voluntary recall of personal flotation devices model# MD2010 and MD 2012. Due to an inconsistency in the inflator installation, the flotation devices may not inflate as intended. Although the oral inflation functions normally, any one owning one of these devices should inspect it to ensure that it is stamped with the initials “MIT” above the CO2 cartridge, if it is not, stop using the vest and contact Mustang Survival for return instructions on how to get your PFD repaired. No other Mustang Survival Products are affected by this recall. You can contact Mustang Survival’s Customer Service hotline at (800)526-0532 between 7:30am and 4:30pm PST, Monday through Friday for specific shipping instructions. Mustang Survival covers all testing, repair and shipping costs.

To see the full recall posted by Mustang Survival - Click Here

Image 1 Product with white labels are not part of this recall

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Image 2 Check for the model number on the back of the PFD above the UL log

The Great Lakes Mariner

Image 3 Any MD2010 or MD2012 with an “MIT” stamp is OK to use and does not need to be returned

“I don’t always play my music loud..but when I do, I prefer Dos Woofers.” - The most Interesting Dog in the World Hannah - Grosse Ile, MI

If you would like for us to consider your pet for our Mutt of the Month page, please go to thegreatlakesmariner.com, under the “Your Input” tab, and send us a photo. Please include the Pet’s name and home-port. If your pet is chosen we’ll send you some Great Lakes Mariner Gear.

The Great Lakes Mariner

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The Great Lakes Boat Building School Announces their 2012 Summer Workshops

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he Great Lakes Boat Building School has announced the dates and projects for their 2012 Summer Workshops. These workshops take place over several days and gives even the most novice of boat-builders a chance to construct a seaworthy boat. This sounds like a great opportunity for a parent to spend time with a child and make memories, and a boat, that will last a lifetime.

The class requires its participants to purchase a boat kit (supplied by Chesapeake Light Craft) and there is a fee for tuition. The price of the boat kit and the cost of tuition vary depending on the duration of the course and the kit selected. For more information go to www.greatlakesboatbuilding.org, email them at info@ greatlakesboatbuilding.org, or call them at (906) 484-1081.

Sea Island Sport Kayak

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The Great Lakes Mariner

Shearwater 16 Kayak

Jimmy Skiff

Eastport Pram

Sassafras 16 Canoe

Other kits, sizes, and configurations are available - Click Here The Great Lakes Mariner

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A Quick Look: Cruisers 41 Cantius

Photos Courtesy of Cruisers Yachts

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ith clean, modern lines and an extensive list of features, many boaters can’t wait to take a closer look at this boat; including us here at The Great Lakes Mariner.

This luxury boat appears to have all of a cruiser’s needs covered. Featuring a choice of either stern-drive or Pod-drive power, and an interior reminiscent of a high-end hotel, the 41 Cantius was definitely aimed at those with a discerning taste.

This boat was obviously designed with entertaining in mind. On the stern end, a swim platform mounted bar complete with pedestal seating faces forward to the aft rear seating, which then flows seamlessly into the interior through large sliding glass partitions, means everyone feels like they are included in the party.

We’re going to track this one down and take a closer look in the near future.

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Sea Ray Introduces the All New 410 Sundancer

Photos Courtesy of Sea Ray

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ea Ray has just released the all-new, 2012, 410 Sundancer. For Sundancer fanatics, the new 410 will not disappoint. New styling and new features carry the Sundancer line into the future. Customers can choose their preferred look with a standard sport spoiler, optional open hardtop or optional enclosed hardtop with electric front vents and available sunroof. The new 410 was also designed to give the owner more flexibility and amenities while entertaining guests, such as a barbeque grill built into the wet bar and a pivoting backrest for the large wrap-around cockpit lounge, giving users several different seat configurations and more flexibility.

The 410 also comes with two different engine configurations. Standard are twin 425-hp Cummins MerCruiser Diesel QSB 8.3-425 V-drives, or you can opt for twin diesel engines with Zeus速 pod drives and a helm joystick. Sea Ray hoped the engine choices would satisfy both the traditionalist, who prefer a rudder, and the modernist, who are apt to try new pod drives.

Whatever their intention, choices are nice, as are the first impressions of the 410 Sundancer.

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The Great Lakes Mariner

Photos Courtesy of Tiara Yachts

Tiara’s 2012 3600 Coronet T iara labels this new introduction as “Dayboating at its finest,” after taking a glance at some of the press release photos, it’s possible that they may be right.

The 3600 Coronet provides a ton of room for entertaining, optional hardtop with a sunroof, a private master stateroom below deck, and lots of wood. For power, Tiara gives you a choice of either twin inboard Mercury 375 HP gas or twin inboard Cummins 380 HP diesels, or ZF pod drives, with twin Cummins 380 HP diesels. Either option should propel this boat nicely. The 3600 Coronet exhibits beautiful classic styling and then joins it to modern features. Thankully for us, with Tiara’s history, its beauty is likely more than skin deep.

The Great Lakes Mariner

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You got a Problem?!

With a particular brand or model of boat that is. We want to know: From your experience, what brand or model of boat should be avoided and why? Once we see a pattern developing, we’ll try to get in touch with the manufacturer and see if they have a solution, or if they have at least corrected the issue, so future owners won’t have to suffer your same fate. Please take a minute and visit our boater forum to let us know. Click HERE

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The Great Lakes Mariner

New Edition of U.S. Chart No.1

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he National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA,) along with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA,) has released the latest version of U.S. Chart Number 1. Chart#1 provides descriptions and depictions of the basic elements and symbols used on nautical charts published by NOAA and the NGA, as well as the “INT1” symbols described in the Regulations of the IHO for International Charts and Chart Specifications of the IHO published by the International Hydrographic Organization.

This is a great resource to act as a refresher for those experienced at charting, and a must for those learning how to chart for the first time.

This version of Chart#1 is available for free download below and a print version will soon be available for purchase from reputable book retailers everywhere. If you plan on checking online now for a hard copy of Chart#1, don’t forget to confirm the publication date to ensure you don’t purchase an outdated copy.

Click HERE to download the latest PDF version of Chart#1

The Great Lakes Mariner

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16 Photo Courtesy of Formula Boats

The Great Lakes Mariner

Formula’s 34PC The Great Lakes Mariner

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Top: The helm of the Formula PC has enough electronics and engine controls to make most fighter pilots jealous. The Axius joystick system is visible on the right side of the helm, as is the SmartCraft Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) system - both very impressive. Left: The aft storage area is a handy feature for keeping the decks clear. Upper Right: The aft seat lifts to expose the engine compartment.

Bottom-Right: The wetbar contains a small Isotherm mini-frig and a Corian covered counter.

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ser-friendly features abound in the new Formula 34 PC. Expectations for any Formula Boat are pretty high, and this boat does not disappoint.

The hull of the 34PC is a fiberglass laminate, with a Divinycell core. This combination provides for solid construction, while keeping the weight to a modest level. Formula hulls are also coated with Vinylester; a coating that effectively reduces the risk of water infiltration into the boat’s hull.

The Vinylester and Divinycell combination greatly reduces the risk of experiencing hull core damage or blistering. The hull is cosmetically finished with a DuPont Imron finish, which gives it a very deep (and very durable) gloss. Just as vital as the hull itself, is the quality of the products that are used to pass through it when needed; Formula chose a respectable polished 316-stainless steel.

Up on top, Formula gives an owner a few different options for power. The power-plant of the 34PC that I toured was twin high-output 8.2 liter MerCruisers. If those aren’t to your liking, you can opt for either twin Volvo Penta 8.1 liter GiCE Duoprops, or twin Volvo Penta D4 DPH, 300hp diesels with electronic steering, but be mindful that this latter option will run you an extra $55,000 or so. The engines are tucked away in an engine compartment under the rear u-shaped seating. The engines are easily exposed by just flipping a switch and standing-by while the motorized cover lifts. The The Great Lakes Mariner

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Above: The master-suite carries the cabin’s wood accents and detail throughout. Top-Right: Details like cedar lining in the cabin’s storage cabinets help distinguish the 34PC interior from its competitors.

Bottom-Right: The bow sun-pads are adjustable, another detail sure to be appreciated.

engine compartment may not be huge, but does give liberal access to all of the engines key maintenance components.

For the boat’s passengers, Formula has you covered from stem to stern.

Beginning at the aft of the boat, the integrated swim platform (which is quite spacious) features a foldaway swim ladder and a hot and cold water transom shower. Another nice feature is the large enclosed aft storage area with a pneumatic lift assisted cover.

This compartment offers plenty of room to store the kid’s blow-up whatevers, swim fins, water noodles, or whatever else they can dream up.

Stepping up onto the Bridgedeck, Formula again has created a space that is ready for entertaining. From the wet bar, that features Corian countertops and an Isotherm refrigerator, to the u-shaped seating area with removable table, there is ample room to gather a significant number of your friends comfortably.

Another nice feature for the comfort of your guests is the 34PC’s optional hardtop, which keeps your guest shielded from the glaring summer sun. Thankfully, the designers were thoughtful enough to realize that most of us don’t want to sit around in shadows either, so they incorporated two sky-lights into the hardtop. This keeps things bright in the day, and multiple flush mounted LED lights incorporated into the hardtop keeps things nicely lit in the evening (you can even have the LED lights change colors 20

The Great Lakes Mariner

– which is kind of cool.) For those that thrive on the glaring sun, the 34PC has a walkthrough windshield that leads to two adjustable sun-pads on the bow.

Moving back onto the Bridgedeck we can take a look at the helm of the 34PC. The instrument and electronics panels provide everything one could possibly desire, arranged in a highly visible, neat and orderly package. The one I explored came loaded with the optional Raymarine E120W Chartplotter/Radar Combo and the Raymarine GPS navigation system with HD radar. If you wanted to be somewhat thrifty, Formula also offers a basic Garmin package at a savings of just over $13,000 but it seems to me that if you are planning on spending $300,000 on a boat, spending an extra $13,000 for the added safety and protection of advanced electronics is probably well worth it. The controls of the 34PC included the fantastic Axius Docking System (if you’re not familiar with the Axius Docking System Click Here to go to our “Stuff You’re Going to Want” page and see a short video.) The throttles are solid and contain everything needed for engine control at the touch of your fingers.

The cabin is similar in layout to other express-cruisers but did feel significantly more open than some of its competitors. I also felt that the quality of many of the individual components contained in the cabin rose above others in its class. Corian countertops, and deep gloss cabinets make the galley area both eye catching and durable. The individual drawers feature dove-tail joinery and drawer pulls that recess into the cabinet to be flush with the cabinet face until needed. The stove comes with a nice Corian cover but it is otherwise what you would expect for Bottom-Left: The galley is attractive and features deep gloss cabinets and corian countertops for years of durability. Bottom-Right: The gloss wood continues to the dinette table. The dinette seating is Ultra-Leather which will ensure years of durability.

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Formula’s 34PC this style of boat, as is the refrigerator. The boat also provides its users with a significant amount of storage via numerous, beautiful, built-in wall-mounted cabinets, which match the cabinetry in the galley. The master-suite is the standard layout for this style and size of boat but does include some sizeable, conveniently placed, drawers at the foot of the bed. Privacy is achieved via curtains.

The aft cabin area felt slightly more compact than others in its class, but was still large enough that I didn’t feel too enclosed. There is also the option of a HD television mounted in this area, adding a little more comfort and luxury to your guest’s stay. The head is sizeable enough for the vast majority of users and is similar in its size and Above: The head continues layout to other boats in its class. Like the rest of the cabin, the wood and Corian use. the head contains exceptional touches, such as continued The home quality faucet adds use of Corian paired with modern bath and shower to the quality feel. fixtures, continued use of beautiful wood accents, and built in toiletry shelving above the toilet.

The 34PC is another nice model from Formula and is packed full of user-friendly features that is sure to make it a pleasure to own. If you are in the market for an express-cruiser, this boat is definitely worthy of your consideration.

Price of the model toured: $319,900

Photo/Chart Courtesy of Formula Boats

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What’s Up Dock?

New products and exciting innovations in the boating market!

Stabilis Electra - Electric Roll Stabilizer

C M C M a ri n e

Many modern boats may provide less than stellar stability while at anchor due to hull configurations designed to maximize living area and not for performance. A good roll stabilizer may help with that. This one won a DAME award. According to the manufacturer: “Stabilis Electra is the world’s unique revolutionary system offered

by CMC Marine to overcome the problem of limited dynamics of a hydraulic actuator. Stabilis Electra uses a new generation of drive to move a fin stabilizer connected to an electrical brushless motor with a permanent magnet.

Thanks to its faster response and lower power absorption the Stabilis Electra is the perfect system for the stabilization at anchor of yachts starting from 18 metres. (59’)”

Stow-’N-Go Kart

Tay l o rM a d e P ro d u c t s

This ingenious little cart holds up to 250 lbs. and will allow you to get everything from your trunk to your boat in just one trip. Once your there, just fold it up and store it down below until it’s time to unload. A product that can save you time and save your back, what could be better?

Available online for under $100

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The Great Lakes Mariner

DualFuel Autorouting for the G10/G12

GEO N AV

GEONAV has introduced a new feature to the 2012 G10 and G12 MFD units known as DualFuel. DualFuel utilizes the vessels entered parameters and chart data to easily plot a safe course between two points.

Simply enter Point A and Point B and the autopilot will take it from there. This feature is included on all new G10 and G12 units and is available for download for previous model years. A new G10 has an MSRP of $3299 but can easily be found for $1,999.

The AquaCharge

Rule

Again, the manufacturer says it better than I can.

“The AquaCharge is a portable, rechargeable, sub mersible pump for use in numerous applications both on board and ashore. The charging station can be connected to either a 110/230V household outlet or your boat or car’s 12V battery system. The powerful AquaCharge is capable of pumping 50 gallons in less than 10 minutes and runs on a safe, low voltage, rechargeable NiMH battery, which is fully submersible and can be used to pump out fresh or salt water.”

Priced around $70.

Trident Charting Software

N o b e l te c

Another navigation product, this time for the PC, is the Trident from Nobeltec. The best way to see how this performs is to watch it in action. Click HERE to watch a short video showcasing its features. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED! It’s radar, sounder, and NavNet compatible too. Retails for about $1000 but can be found online for far less.

If you have a new product that you would like featured in What’s Up Dock?

Please go to www.thegreatlakesmariner.com/reader-submissions and let us know.

Put-in-Bay, Ohio

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The Great Lakes Mariner

A Family Friendly Destination?

Photo by Dave Spengler The Great Lakes Mariner

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Put-in-Bay, Ohio A Family Friendly Destination?

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ut-In-Bay, Ohio, is a well-known Great Lakes party destination for boaters, and for good reason. The parties are things that legends are made of, and put it this way, the amount of alcohol consumed per capita by those visiting Put-In-Bay on any boating season weekend would likely rival many prominent spring-break destinations. I don’t want to give readers the impression that this island is absolute hedonism on the weekends, but it is an adult environment.

It’s this adult party perception of Put-In-Bay that keeps many families from visiting the island, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Put-In-Bay can be a fun family destination, if you plan your visit accordingly.

My family and I visited Put-in Bay this past summer to test the waters for other family boaters. The most valuable lesson that we learned is that planning your visit is important. Unless you want your children to get an early lesson on how alcohol effects otherwise upstanding citizens, a Friday through Monday visit is not recommended. By planning to visit on a weekday you avoid the large number of adult boaters that have planned a weekend, or long-weekend, getaway. My family and I arrived on Tuesday and moored up at Miller Marina. For those that have not been to Put-inBay and are trying to decide which Marina would best suit

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The Great Lakes Mariner

Above: The Miller Marina offers a clean, family friendly environment.

Right: A covered picnic area on the grounds of Miller’s Marina.

Far-Left: The Putin-Bay Winery and Doller Estate is a nice place to take a load off and enjoy a glass of wine near the marina.

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Above: If you see this sign you’re in the right place to see the things pictured to the right. The center picture is the main chamber of Perry’s Cave, while the far-right photo is an underground stream reportedly discovered by Admiral Perry and his men.

their needs, you may want to seriously consider Miller Marina. The price was reasonable, the facilities in good condition, and the Manager, Rich Myers, could not have been a more pleasant and helpful host. If you’re thinking “of course they were nice to you, they wanted a good write-up;” I never mentioned the magazine and I’m sure that until the publication of this article, they had no idea that a representative of our magazine had ever been there.

After checking in and touring the marina we headed off to explore. Visitors of Put-in-Bay generally use one of several different methods for traveling around the island. In our case, we chose to travel with our bicycles. Many people however opt to walk or rent a golf cart, moped, or bicycle from one of the many rental locations around the island. For those considering rental transportation, as a general rule a weekday rental bicycle will run you about $30 a day, a moped – approximately $50 a day and a golf cart will run you between $50 and $90 a day, depending on whether you choose a 4, 6, or 8 passenger cart.

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As my family and I traveled around Put-in-Bay, we discovered a bustling, fun, tourist friendly town. The bulk of our first afternoon was spent touring historic Perry’s Cave, playing 18 holes of miniature golf at the War of 18-holes, and the pleasant surprise of the day, the Butterfly House.

When my wife and kids told me that they wanted to go to the Butterfly House I reluctantly agreed; and I’m glad I did. As juvenile as it would seem, this exhibit is so interactive, and the butterflies so unbelievably bright and interesting, that one cannot help but be mesmerized by this delicate display of nature. In addition to the activities that we participated in the Perry’s Cave complex also has a small laser tag area, rock climbing wall, a walk-through maze, and kids mining area, the type with a trough, running water and screened bottom basket.

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Put-in-Bay, Ohio : A Family Friendly Destination?

Once we worked up an appetite playing with butterflies and bicycling around the island, we went for a late dinner at Tipper’s Buffet. This was our only negative experience of the trip. It wasn’t adults behaving badly though, it was unfortunately chefs cooking poorly. Although our server, Matt, was fantastic, and the live music by Mustang Sally was very enjoyable, the buffet food left a lot to be desired, as did the individual meals ordered by my kids; I’ll put it this way, a visit from Chef Ramsey may be in their future. I suppose this may have been an isolated incident, but with all of our meals being too poor to finish, it may be a good idea to consider dining elsewhere.

On day two, we got an early start and toured the town again. Since I had a minor business issue that popped up, which required the quick use of a computer, we sought out the local library. Upon entering, we realized that we had discovered a hidden little gem. The library was very quaint, had multiple computers available for public use, and a sitting area where the kids could relax and read while Dad took care of business. You may think “my kids would never sit around a library while on vacation,” but when it’s 95° and you’ve been riding a bicycle for a while, a break in the air-conditioned library is a welcome respite.

After cooling off in the library we rode a couple of miles through some rather charming country roads to the South Bass Island State Park. The park has camping, playgrounds, a picnic area, and, the reason for our visit, a beach. On a hot day, the beach is fine for a quick dip to cool off, but it isn’t the sandy day at the beach that many of us have come to expect; its more stones and pebbles than sand. The park itself is a nice place, which is also pet friendly for those that bring Fido along. They also offer cabin rentals, with pretty fantastic waterfront views, if you would like a break from sleeping on the boat.

After hanging out at the park for a while, we pedaled back to the main area of the island, dismounted from our two-wheeled steeds, and walked Top: the War of 18-Holes miniature golf course. Middle: Fort-A-Maze’n. Bottom: The surprise pleasure of our visit, The Butterfly House.

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Put-in-Bay, Ohio : A Family Friendly Destination?

the downtown. Because downtown is the hub of bar activity, I was slightly apprehensive about walking around this area, but again, we had no negative incidents to report; other than the bloated feeling we were left with after discovering the picturesque Candy Shop. After our visit to the Candy Shop, we decided to head over to Kayak the Bay to rent some kayaks and hopefully work off some of the candy we had just engorged ourselves on.

I would highly recommend taking some time, and a little money, and experiencing this little kayak outing. It cost us $75 for a family of four to rent kayaks for two hours. It’s peaceful and the sites provided by the large rock outcropping and cliffs are really impressive and fascinating, especially for the kids. This is one of those simple things that we do with our kids that will stick in their memories for years to come. There are at least a few kayak rental locations on the island but I would highly recommend Kayak the Bay, which is located near the Boardwalk in the center of Put-in-Bay. The owner, Vicky Wigle, was very helpful in recommending sights for us to take in while kayaking.

Vicky also came to our aid when we were turning the kayaks in. While getting out of the kayak at the dock my wife’s sunglasses fell off into about 8’ of water.

Vicky, obviously having seen this scenario unfold at least once in the past, got us a large magnet on a string to lower down so we could attempt to pull them Below: The Candy Shop - The building is picturesque, the contents are delicious. Right: My wife, Jennifer, gets an unexpected bow in her hair. The sheer beauty of the butterflies is enough to trump even the biggest bug-a-phobic’s fears; just ask my daughter, who is looking a little apprehensive.

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Bottom-Left: The Put-in-Bay Library is a pleasant retreat from the heat. Middle-Left: A merry-go-round near the Candy Shop. Upper-Left: A view of one of the main thoroughfares downtown.

Upper-Middle: The beach at South Bass Island (Putin-Bay) State Park. UpperRight: One of the rock outcroppings that my family and I kayaked around. If you look closely to the far left of the rocks you will notice a small opening; kayaking through the opening is known as “threading the needle.�

Bottom-Right: Although the beach is stony, it still offers the kids a place to cool off and, as you can plainly see, have some fun.

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back up. When that trick was unsuccessful she lent me a dive mask and I was able to swim down and get them. Vicky didn’t act like this was an inconvenience for her, despite the fact that her business was supposed to have already closed for the day, she smiled and laughed and even gave the kids some fake tattoos. This was a perfect experience to cap off our trip to Put-in-Bay.

Our trip was overall a very enjoyable experience and convinced me that this destination is by no means an adult only venue. There are many activities for the whole family to enjoy, just take some time to plan ahead and your family’s stay will be a pleasant one.

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The International Association for Great Lakes Research

IAGLR is Accepting Applications for the 2012 Paul W. Rodger’s Scholarship

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ursuing an advanced degree in research, conservation, education, communication, management, or other knowledge-based activities pertaining to the Great Lakes? If you answered yes, and are a member of IAGLR (if you’re pursuing one of these degrees you should be a member!) then you may be eligible for a $2,000 scholarship. According to IAGLR the Paul W. Rodgers scholarship is “intended to support the advancement of knowledge relating to Great Lakes aquatic ecosystem health and management. The Rodgers Scholarship is awarded annually to individuals dedicated to Great Lakes research, management, and/or the dissemination of knowledge.”

For more information go to http://iaglr.org/scholarships/rodgersscholarship/rodgersapp/

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The Great Lakes Mariner

A mother's testimony about the rewards of sponsorship

flora

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have received dozens of letters with beautiful drawings. She writes them in her native language, Kiswahili, which are then translated. I still tear up over the letter she wrote after we shared that my husband’s mom had died. In the midst of her daily challenges, she was so concerned for us and was praying for us.

We were drawn to another child a year later because he reminded us of our own For my family, it’s $1 a day to reach son. Christian was just a year old when across the world. $1 a day to learn a new we began sponsoring him. His mother is culture. $1 a day to feel love for and the a housekeeper and love of someone you they live on $15 might never meet or a month. We also even talk to on the " i still tear up over the letter receive wonderful phone. $1 a day to she wrote after we shared letters from him remind us to stop through a family complaining about that my husband's mom friend. Christian what we don’t have. had died. in the midst of her adds drawings of $1 a day to teach daily challenges, she was rabbits and turtles our kids about the and flowers. Here’s rewards of charity. so concerned for us and was the note he sent We sponsor two praying for us." this past Christmas: children through -Lynn, CfCA sponsor At midnight close CFCA, Flora your eyes and make from Tanzania a wish for the New Year. At the same time I and Christian from Honduras. We will do the same. My wish will be that your learned about the organization at wish can come true!! Merry Christmas!! church. We learn about a lot of worthy organizations at church, but this one As another commercial says: priceless. spoke to us as a family.

If you’re interested in learning about We chose Flora because her birthday other children awaiting sponsorship, is one day ahead of our wedding I would suggest researching CFCA anniversary. She was born in 1993. Her further. Here’s their website, father died in 1994. Her mother earns www.hopeforafamily.org. You can also money selling tomatoes. Flora carries find them on Facebook and Twitter, sand to earn money for school. She wrote: @CFCA. One statistic you should know: Once I complete my primary education, More than 94 percent of CFCA’s expenses I would like to continue studying up until go to program support. university and be a doctor. I will assist my I’ll sign this as Christian and his family, friends and the whole community. mother, Glendi, signed a recent letter — Receive hugs and kisses from the ones How could we not benefit from who love you very much and remember knowing such a person? We have you always. been sponsoring her since 2005 and

ou know the charities helping children in poverty that say, “Just $1 a day is all that’s needed to change a child’s life?” You know what? They’re right. You can change a child’s life with $1 a day. But there’s more. Much more — at least with one organization called Christian Foundation for Children and Aging (CFCA).

christ

ian

Put your fAith into ACtion Sponsorship helps you and your family act on the Catholic Church’s social teachings by helping you make the needs of the world’s poor and vulnerable a priority in your lives. Put your faith into action by sponsoring a child in need through CFCA, the country’s largest lay Catholic child sponsorship organization!

As a CFCA sponsor, your monthly tax-deductible contribution of $30 provides a child with: • Essential benefits such as food, clothing and health care.

• Educational needs such as school supplies, uniforms, tuition and other school fees.

• Recreational activities such as Christmas and birthday celebrations.

• Literacy classes, skills training and livelihood programs for parents.

About the Author

WAnt more informAtion?

Lynn Marcinkowski Woolf is a member of the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Garden Plain, Kan. She is a writer and public relations consultant.

Her family has been sponsoring children through CFCA since 2005. Read Lynn’s blog at www.lynnwoolf.com.

Visit www.hopeforafamily.org or call (800) 875-6564.

C h r i s t i a n F o u n d at i o n For Children and aging O f f er i n g h o p e. R e s t o r in g d ign it y. Wo r l d w id e .

N.M.M.A.’s 2011 CSI Award Winners T

he National Marine Manufacturers Association has named its 2011 Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Award winners. These companies strive to make quality products and to ensure that their customers are satisfied, so it is only fitting that we take a moment to recognize these exemplary businesses.

Congratulations to: Avalon\Tahoe: Pontoon Boats Bayliner: Deck Boats, Sterndrive Bowrider Boats, Sterndrive Cuddy and Express Boats Beneteau USA: Sailboats Bennington Marine: Pontoon Boats Boston Whaler: Fiberglass Outboard Boats Chaparral Boats: Deck Boats, Sterndrive Bowrider Boats, Sterndrive Cuddy and Express Boats Cobalt Boats: Sterndrive Bowrider Boats, Sterndrive Cuddy and Express Boats Crestliner Boats: Aluminum Outboard Boats Cypress Cay: Pontoon Boats Forest River Marine: Pontoon Boats Formula Boats: Inboard Express Cruiser Boats, Sterndrive Bowrider Boats, Sterndrive Cuddy and Express Boats G3 Boats: Aluminum Outboard Boats, Pontoon Boats Grady-White Boats: Fiberglass Outboard Boats Harris FloteBote: Pontoon Boats Honda Marine: Outboard Engines Hurricane: Deck Boats Indmar Products: Inboard Engines Lowe Boats: Aluminum Outboard Boats, Deck Boats Lund Boats: Aluminum Outboard Boats, Fiberglass Outboard Boats Manitou Boats: Pontoon Boats Mercury Marine: Outboard Engines Meridian Yachts: Motor Yachts and Trawlers Monterey Boats: Sterndrive Cuddy and Express Boats Moomba Boats: Inboard Watersports Boats Nautique Boats: Inboard Watersports Boats Palm Beach Marinecraft: Pontoon Boats Premier Marine: Pontoon Boats Pursuit Boats: Fiberglass Outboard Boats Regal Marine: Deck Boats, Sterndrive Bowrider Boats Regulator Marine: Fiberglass Outboard Boats Robalo Boats: Fiberglass Outboard Boats Sea Ray Boats: Deck Boats, Inboard Express Cruisers, Inboard Flybridge Sedans and Convertibles, Inboard, Fishing Express Boats, Fiberglass Outboard Boats, Sterndrive Bowrider Boats, Sterndrive Cuddy and ExpressBoats Skeeter Boats: Fiberglass Bass Boats, Fiberglass Outboard Boats Supra Boats: Inboard Watersports Boats Suzuki Motor Corp., American: Outboard Engines Sweetwater: Pontoon Boats Tiara Yachts: Inboard Express Cruiser Boats, Inboard Fishing Express Boats Tige Boats: Inboard Watersports Boats Trophy Marine: Fiberglass Outboard Boats Volvo Penta: Sterndrive Engines Yamaha Outboards: Outboard Engines

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A beautiful roof is an essential part of a beautiful home. Call the company that has ser ved Sout heastern Michigan for over 24 years.

OYSTER 625 Wins a Very Big Honor .....or, should I say “Honour”?

S

ailors, if you’ve been fantasizing about the same dream boat for years, a jury of journalists from eleven major European boating magazines may have just given you a new fantasy boat to dream of.

The Oyster 625 was just named European Yacht of the Year in the Best Luxury Cruiser category. This boat, and its competitors, went through a rigorous sea trial (click HERE to see a short video) with the Oyster 625 coming out on top of the field. If you would like to see this boat for yourself, you had better get your plane tickets now because you have only two weeks until the Miami Boat Show, where it will be proudly displayed.

For those that would like to make their dream a little more attainable, at least temporarily, the Oyster 625 is available for charter.

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Beneteau 40

F

irst and foremost, I must make an admission – I’m not a sailor; I like turning a key and I don’t care from what direction the wind blows. That being said, there is something alluring about the thought of hoisting a sail and traveling anywhere the winds can take us. So, despite my propensity for the internal combustion engine, I can still appreciate the peace and beauty offered by a sailboat. With this admission being clearly stated, let me make something else clear - this article is not a critical review of the Beneteau 40, it is simply intended to showcase for our readers one boat in a line that has received critical accolades from the sailing industry.

Last fall I met with Mr. Terry Freeman of Freeman-Eckley, a local Beneteau Dealer, and was lucky enough to be given a guided tour of the 2012 Beneteau 40.

Mr. Freeman’s tour was my first exposure to this line of sailboat; it was certainly beneficial to have such a knowledgeable guide answering my elementary questions and pointing out some of the benefits of owning a Beneteau. Now that I’ve shouted my ignorance from the proverbial crow’s nest, let’s take a look at the Beneteau 40.

Above: The bow of the Beneteau 40 enters the water at nearly a 90-degree angle resulting in less drag. Right: The sheet control lines are gathered neatly at the cabin entrance. Right-Inset: the windlass and anchor locker hide away nicely.

One thing Mr. Freeman was quick to point out to me was that Beneteau does not rely on in-house architects for their designs; they contract out to renowned Naval Architects. In this case, the hull and deck of the Beneteau 40 was designed by the French firm Berret-Racopeau, which has been designing boats for over 120 years. The interior of the Beneteau 40 was designed by a company with a lot of very impressive yachts under their belt, the Italian yacht design company Nauta.

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Dual stations give the captain a clear view of what lies ahead no matter where the sails may be.

Both companies bring vast experience and prestige to the Beneteau 40 and their expertise is evident.

The hull of the boat is constructed Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) bonded to a grid of multi-directional GRP/ Fiberglass to give the hull further integrity, rigidity, and strength. The hull is then capped off with a Vinyl-ester coating, to resist water infiltration and the potential for blistering. The hull design itself is modern. It enters the water abruptly, resulting in the boat that cuts cleanly through the water, as opposed to past sailboats that had a hull that swept aft, causing greater drag. The decking of the boat is cored GRP over thermal acoustic insulation, for the lighter construction. Areas likely to bear significant weight are reinforced with solid fiberglass.

As you board the Beneteau 40 through the walk-through transom, you’re greeted by twin steering stations. The starboard steering station contains the 48

The Great Lakes Mariner

Beneteau 40 boat’s engine controls and gauges, while the port side contains instruments intended for use while under sail. Both stations contain a large compass mounted in plain view atop the station’s steering column. The boat also has a Raymarine E-80 Multi-function navigation system, mounted for easy viewing from either station, in the aft portion of a drop-side cockpit table. The drop-side table, along with bench seats on both sides, allows for ample space for dining or entertaining while at anchor or dockside, and easy movement around the deck while under sail.

The sheet controls are brought toward the aft of the boat and gather near the cabin Harken electric winches make sailing entrance and the steering stations. The boat short handed much easier, as do the neat arrangements of clutches. that I was given a tour of was equipped with Harken electric winches, which purportedly make sailing short-handed much easier. The sail lines that congregate at the cabin entrance are easily secured utilizing multiple, neatly mounted, clutches. As far as the workings of the sails go, I’ll simply resign myself to parroting the features that Beneteau likes to tout (I’m sure this means something to you sailors): STANDING RIGGING Anodized aluminum roller furling mast and boom Fractional 9/10 anodized aluminum deck stepped mast standard w/mainsail furling system Twin aft swept spreader Anodized aluminum boom w/outhaul car Stainless steel shrouds and stays Genoa roller furling system Stainless steel chain plates tied to the inner moldings w/stainless steel tie rods 50

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RUNNING RIGGING Running rigging is led to the cockpit Running rigging includes: (2) Main halyard, (1) Genoa halyard w/jammer & cleat on mast,(1) boom topping lift w/cleat on mast, (1) Roller furling mainsail outhaul line and (1) inhaul line, (1) mainsheet w/track, (2) mainsheet traveller control lines, (2) Genoa sheets Rigid boom vang SAILS Furling genoa w/140% overlap, reinforced w/anti-UV protection strip Furling mainsail w/vertical battens As the photo below clearly shows, the wood adorned interior is warm, cozy, and bright.

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If the wind isn’t blowing, or you just don’t feel like hoisting a sail, as is often the case from what I hear, the Beneteau 40 comes equipped with a 40 hp Yanmar gas engine. A 40hp engine definitely won’t bring you up on plane but it will let you cruise along at roughly the same speed at which you would sail (approx. 7 knots.)

After examining the working area of the boat, I entered the living area. As I descended the stairs from the deck, I was met with a neat, spacious, woodadorned salon. Thanks to large skylights and ample windows surrounding the salon, I was also pleasantly surprised to find it flooded with natural light. The combination of the openness, skylights, and windows, makes the salon warm and a very livable space. Mr. Freeman pointed out that Beneteau uses a modular process for their builds, which allows for reduced production cost and greater design flexibility. Certain portions are constructed separately and assembled based on need. The Oceanis 40 comes in two modular interior designs, a twocabin (one forward - one aft) or a three cabin (one forward – two aft) design. I was touring the two-cabin design. This design provides for more crew living space, a slightly larger u-shaped galley, and a main cabin dressing table with mirror and bench seat, but these features come at the cost of a third bedroom and second head. The difference is purely personal preference and need.

The galley of this model is very functional. That’s not to say that it is not aesthetically pleasing, it definitely is, but many boats have the aesthetics, while few match the looks with functionality - this has both. The galley features a double-basin sink, a two-burner stainless steel propane stove with oven, built-in microwave, separate refrigerator and built-in chest style freezer, and, to top it all off, a relatively spacious counter.

In the two-cabin design, the galley comes to an end where it buts up to the chart table and the communications and electrical cluster. The relatively large chart table has a flip up storage compartment to stow your charts and other items when not in use. The communications and electronics cluster incorporates a Raymarine marine radio, an Aquaticav AM/FM/ Satellite receiver with IPod docking capability, and the boat’s climate control. Below these items is the Above-Left: The aft cabin is neatly adorned and cozy. Above-Right: The chart table features a lift up cover to allow you to neatly stow your charts, papers, or instruments when not in use. Bottom: The galley is large and usable. Inset: being made in America is a nice touch to a very nice boat.

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Beneteau 40 electrical panel, which features a combination of breakers and blade fuses.

Forward of the chart table, on both sides of the boat, is spacious and comfortable seating. The port side offers a large built-in sofa, while the starboard side grants the crew a large galley table to go along with ample seating.

This boat’s Main Cabin, or Owner’s Cabin as it is referred to by Beneteau, is forward of the salon and is a cozy V-bunk style cabin. On this model of the Beneteau 40, the cabin contains a dressing station with a mirror and bench, which sits directly across from the cabin’s hanging locker. The Owner’s Cabin provides its occupants 6’3” of headspace, which is more than the vast majority of users will require. The aft cabin has a slightly larger actual sleeping area than the Owner’s cabin, but is limited to a hanging locker and access to the head for additional amenities. The aft cabin also feels much more enclosed than the Owner’s cabin, despite the larger sleeping area, due to the lower ceiling over the bed, which is necessary to accomodate the deck overhead.

Moving on to a crucial feature, the head. The head itself is large enough for one to move about freely, and thanks to natural light from the head’s windows, feels airy and comfortable. Its sterile white environment is neatly trimmed in the same Alpi wood that is seen throughout the rest of the boat’s interior. The home quality faucets in the shower and sink, along with the sink’s large basin, go a long way in making a boater feel at home, as opposed to that “RV feeling” that many heads generate in their occupants.

Thanks to my examination of this boat, I have a renewed interest in sailing.

Since I’m not selling my powerboat, I’ll just have to tell my wife that it’s Mr. Freeman’s fault when I show up at the marina with a 40’ second boat. You had better watch your back Mr. Freeman, she may be coming for you.

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Left: The head is relatively spacious and open feeling. Above: The owner’s cabin is bright and features a beautiful Alpi wood dressing table with mirror, hanging locker, and shelves.

Price as Toured: $230,000

Beneteau 40

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A little Boating History H

eres’s something many of you probably didn’t know…Detroit not only brought the car to the masses, they also gave us the motorboat. This historical placard was recently placed on Grosse Ile, a little island south of Detroit, to mark the site that Mr. Cameron Waterman tested his new invention on the back of a small rowboat 106 years ago this month. Mr. Waterman originally called his device a “Boat Propelling Device.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find a photograph of his original engine, but I did find his original drawings at the U.S. Patent office. If anyone does find a photograph of his first engine, how about going to the Boater’s Forum on our website and posting a link, I’m sure a lot of people would be interested in seeing that little piece of history.

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Illinois State by State - News from Around the Great Lakes

15 Year Old Sets a New Illinois State Walleye Record ROCKFORD, IL – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Division of Fisheries salutes 15 year old Nick Tassoni of Rockford for catching a new state-record walleye. The fish was caught on Jan. 7, 2012 on the Pecatonica River between Rockton and Harrison in Winnebago County. Nick Tassoni caught the fish while fishing the river with his father, David Tassoni.

IDNR Division of Fisheries Regional Administrator Dan Sallee reports the fish weighed in at 14 pounds, 12 ounces and was 31 inches in length with a girth of 20.25 inches. Nick Tassoni’s fish topped the previous state-record walleye, a 14 pounder caught on the Kankakee River in 1961.

Nick Tassoni, a freshman at Rockford Auburn High School, reported catching the fish with a Rapala Minnow Rap lure on Berkley Trilene Big Game 10 lb. line, using a Falcon Carolina Lizzard Dragger rod and Ambassadeur 5000 reel.

“We congratulate Nick Tassoni on catching a beautiful fish and commend this young man and his father for being alert to the fact that they had a big one that might be a recordsetter,” said Sallee. “Nick’s fish easily erased a more than 50-year-old state record for walleye, and this catch speaks to the fun families can have while fishing in Illinois.”

A proud Nick, shown above, with his fish and his equally proud father.

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Indiana State by State - News from Around the Great Lakes

City of South Bend to Reduce Discharge into Lake Michigan Tributary Settlement Expected to Reduce Annual Raw Sewage Discharges by 95 Percent Hammond, Indiana- The United States Attorney’s Office and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced that the City of South Bend, Indiana has agreed to make an estimated $509.5 million worth of improvements to its combined sewer system to significantly reduce overflows of raw sewage to the St. Joseph River, which is a tributary of Lake Michigan. One well-known stretch of the St. Joseph River in South Bend, the East Race, is the site of an annual international kayaking competition and also is where Olympic kayakers and rescue workers periodically train.

The improvements that South Bend will implement to its sewer system under the consent decree announced today will provide major public health and environmental benefits. Currently, South Bend annually discharges into the St. Joseph River a total of over 2 billion gallons of untreated sewage during 80 events. After implementing the improvements required under the settlement, South Bend will reduce the number of raw sewage discharge events by 95 percent to only four during a typical year of rainfall.

The reduced discharges will result in preventing over 700,000 pounds of pollutants from entering the St. Joseph River each year. The State of Indiana is a co-plaintiff and a signatory to the proposed consent decree.

See the complete press release HERE

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Michigan State by State - News from Around the Great Lakes

Free Fishing Weekend in Michigan Waters The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds everyone the annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 18 and Sunday, Feb. 19. On that weekend, everyone - residents and non-residents alike - can fish without a license, though all other fishing regulations still apply.

Michigan has been celebrating Winter Free Fishing Weekend annually since 1994 as a way to promote awareness of the state’s vast aquatic resources. With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, 36,000 miles of rivers and 11,000 inland lakes, Michigan and fishing are a natural match.

“Michigan offers some of the finest freshwater fishing in the world, including during the winter months,” said DNR Director Rodney Stokes. “Fishing is an inexpensive activity anyone can pursue ? as an individual or as a family. We encourage you to get out this February and experience it for yourself, for free!”

To encourage involvement in Free Fishing Weekends, organized activities are being scheduled in communities across the state. These activities are coordinated by a variety of organizations including: constituent groups, schools, local and state parks, businesses and others.

There’s still plenty of time to plan your own local Free Fishing Weekend event, or find one occurring in your community. Visit the newly revamped website www.michigan. gov/freefishing for all things related to this unique weekend; including where you can find help on event planning and promotion and where you can identify events in your area or register an official event.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

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Minnesota State by State - News from Around the Great Lakes

DNR to Purchase 20 Decontamination Units in Fight Against Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species Thanks to the Minnesota Legislature and Gov. Mark Dayton, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will purchase 20 additional decontamination units in 2012 that will be used to clean watercraft and marine equipment and help prevent the spread of zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species.

Funding for the units, which cost approximately $15,000 each, was part of package of new laws and initiatives approved by the Legislature and Gov. Dayton in 2011. Fortysix new Level 2 aquatic invasive species watercraft inspectors will also be hired and trained to operate the units, which will be deployed after ice-out primarily at high-use, zebra mussel-infested lakes and rivers.

The units use 160-degree (F), high-pressure water to remove and kill any aquatic invasive species that might be attached to boats or marine equipment. The sprayed water is captured in a reclamation mat so it doesn’t wash into lakes and streams, and then filtered and reused.

“Our plan is for these units to be operating at highly used boat accesses 80 hours a week,” said Heidi Wolf, DNR watercraft inspection program supervisor. “That includes weekends and evenings.”

The DNR has identified specific locations where the units will operate and will be working with stakeholders to finalize the deployment plan. The DNR has a stakeholder group, including representatives of lake associations, resorts, anglers and local units of governments, which provides input to the agency on aquatic invasive species policies and programs.

“We will be talking to our stakeholders on Friday, Jan. 6 at the DNR’s annual roundtable in St. Paul to begin discussions on our deployment plan,” Wolf said.

The DNR purchased three decontamination units in 2011 and deployed them with newly trained inspectors in late summer to selected lakes with zebra mussels. Wolf said the agency learned some valuable best management practices last year that will be used this year.

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New York State by State - News from Around the Great Lakes

Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, City of Buffalo responding to debris in Buffalo River BUFFALO, N.Y. — To ensure the safety of boating traffic on the Buffalo River, Coast Guard personnel are continuing to monitor this morning the response to debris that fell into the river Friday night near Ganson Street.

Ontario Specialty Contracting, a demolition company, reported debris falling into the river after the company demolished the former grain elevator near the waterfront.

U.S. Coast Guard personnel from Sector Buffalo and Station Buffalo immediately responded to assess the situation and ensure that there were no immediate hazards to maritime safety.

At present, the waterway is open to maritime vessels, with no restrictions to vessel traffic. However, as crews begin to salvage the debris, mariners are advised to proceed cautiously and monitor their marine radios on FM Channel 16 for any marine information broadcasts.

“My concern is that we fully assess the site and work closely with our partner agencies and Ontario Specialty Contracting to ensure a safe and effective recovery of the debris and the restoration of safe navigation on the Buffalo River,” stated Capt. Steve Wischmann, commander of Coast Guard Sector Buffalo.

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Ohio State by State - News from Around the Great Lakes

Coast Guard rescues 59-year-old man who fell through ice near Toledo CLEVELAND — An ice-rescue team from Coast Guard Station Toledo, Ohio, rescued a 59-year-old man who fell through the ice in Toledo’s Cullen Park this afternoon.

The man was rescued after reportedly falling through the ice while chasing after his dogs.

The victim fell through the ice into about three feet of water and was unable to get back onto solid ice.

Station Toledo received notification of the man in distress from the Toledo Fire Department at about 2:45 p.m. The Coast Guard ice-rescue team and personnel from the Toledo Fire Department responded to the scene.

The man was helped back to shore and transferred to Emergency Medical Services. The man’s dogs were able to make it safely back to shore.

Since Great Lakes ice is unpredictable and dangerous, the Coast Guard wants people to keep safety in mind, and use the acronym “I.C.E.” to remember the following: I — Intelligence: check the weather and ice conditions, know where you are going and know how to call for help/assistance.

C — Clothing: wear the proper anti-exposure clothes with multiple layers. If possible, wear a dry suit to prevent hypothermia, which can occur within minutes after falling through the ice.

E - Equipment: have the proper equipment such as a marine band radio and life jackets.

Recreational ice users are encouraged to: Use the buddy system - NEVER go out on the ice alone.

Dress in bright colors and wear an anti-exposure suit that is waterproof, including a personal flotation device (PFD).

Carry two ice picks or screwdrivers for self-rescue. They are much more effective than using your hands.

Carry a whistle or noise-making device to alert people that you are in distress and a communication device; a VHF-FM radio is more effective and reliable than a cell phone in the marine environment.

Stay away from cracks, seams, pressure ridges and slushy areas, which signify thinner ice.

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Pennsylvania State by State - News from Around the Great Lakes

Pennsylvania Releases it 2011 Boating Accident and Fatality Report The total number of reported recreational boating accidents in Pennsylvania in 2011 increased from 2010. Boaters and Waterways Conservation Officers reported 86 recreational boating accidents of all types, an increase of 14 reported accidents, or 16% over 2010. The number of vessels involved in reported accidents totaled 99, an increase of seven from 2010. Accident reports indicated 57 injuries requiring medical treatment, four less than in 2010. Property damage to vessels totaled $196,563, which was $34,013 less than the figure reported in the previous year. One accident comprised $50,000 or 25% of that total. Federal and state law requires that accidents involving death, disappearance, injuries requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, and property damage exceeding $2,000 be reported to the state. Accidents with lesser property damage and/or minor injuries are not required to be reported and the PFBC does not have data for these incidents.

The number of registered boats in which Pennsylvanians plied the waterways continued to decrease in 2011. This decline was primarily in one class of boats, motorboats less than 16 feet in length, and has declined steadily since 2000.

Of the 86 reported accidents in 2011, the most common type was collisions (including striking

a submerged object). Thirteen of the collisions occurred between vessels.

The types of reported accidents were as follows: Falls overboard 18 Collision with fixed object 4 Capsizing 15 Flooding/swamping 3 Collision with vessel 13 Struck submerged object 3 Skier mishap 7 Struck by boat 2 Fall in boat 7 Sinking 1 Person leaves/ejected from vessel 6 Grounding 1 Hit and run 1 Fire/explosion 5

Twenty-two recreational boating accidents resulted in an equal number of fatalities. This is fifteen more fatalities than the number reported in 2010 and the second highest since 1992.

In addition, it is above the last 10-year average of 12 victims. Factoring in the 2011 fatalities, Pennsylvania’s new 10-year average is 12.8 victims. Only three of the 22 victims were wearing a life jacket at the time of the mishap that resulted in death. In sixteen of the accidents there were wearable life jackets onboard the boat but the victims did not wear them.

The attached “Recap of 2011 Pennsylvania Boating Fatalities” is a summary of all fatal recreational boating accidents in the Commonwealth that year. The recap’s last page details statistical information about 2011’s fatal boating accidents. This recap is intended to provide information to illustrate the importance of safe boating practices and to help improve boating safety in the Commonwealth.

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Wisconsin State by State - News from Around the Great Lakes

Biologists Seek Feedback on Lake Michigan Salmon Stocking MADISON -- Five years after cutting the number of chinook stocked in Lake Michigan by 25 percent, Wisconsin and three other states are reviewing if the reduction worked and encouraging anglers to weigh in.

“We cut the lake-wide stocking quite a bit five years ago to better balance the trout and salmon out there with the available food supply. We said at that time we’d review how it worked,” says Bill Horns, Great Lakes fisheries specialist for the Department of Natural Resources.

“Anglers report that the chinook and coho they caught in 2011 were big and robust, so we’re not hearing a lot of concern from anglers, but we want to follow through on the promise we made to revisit the issue.”

Horns invites anglers to review information on the web about the Lake Michigan Stocking Strategies workshops and to email him at William.Horns@Wisconsin.gov or call at (608) 2668782 with their feedback on how the stocking reductions worked and suggestions to guide future trout and salmon stocking on Lake Michigan.

Anglers also can attend a Lake Michigan Stocking Strategies conference being planned for next summer. Stocking decisions for 2013 and beyond will be based on the data presented and discussed at that public conference.

“So far, we’ve had a good cross-section of the angling public represented in limited workshops to scope out the process,” says Brad Eggold, who supervises DNR’s southern Lake Michigan fisheries team. “Now we want to reach out to more anglers to help us get ready for the public meeting this summer.”

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Boats for Sale

Classifieds

Wanted Wanted: Tandem axle trailer that will accommodate a 2001 Chaparral 240 SIGNATURE (24’). email Frank harrisenterprise08@ yahoo.com

Boat Equipment

2003 Action Craft Coastal Bay 2110 Re-Powered in 06 with 225 Verado. Raised steering station, jack plate, lockable rod storage, insulated fish box, and wide beam. $29,900. Click Here for more info.

1998 Hydro Cat 300X Freshwater since new, low hour Volvo Penta diesels, great ride, economical. high-performance HydroCat 300 Series Power Catamaran. $49,900. Click Here for more info.

4 Winter Storage Boat Stands, used with a 32’ and 36’ boats. New Pressure Treated wood tops in the fall. $125.00 (734) 624-7201

Parts

Electronics

1987 Carver Mariner 3290. Twin 350’s -approx 650 hrs. Boat is in overall good condition but will soon need canvas and upholstery. $29,900 Click Here for more info.

New Uniden Transom Mount Transducer (part/ model# 650-2406)for a Uniden QT206 depthsound. (Mounting bracket not included) $30 Price includes shipping in the continental U.S. Click Here for more info.

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Catch Det roit Live with Daria n Counts, Tuesday a nd Thursday Mornings , Streaming Live on the UD etroit Network