LAKE GASTON WATER SAFETY COUNCIL revised 6/8/22
Membership Meeting Minutes
Kennon House
May 25, 2022
Opening - 6:00 PM
President Wyatt Andrews welcomed members and guests to the general membership meeting.
Wyatt led the Pledge of Allegiance and the devotion.
We had 42 in attendance along with guests Laurie Miller, Lew and Jane Stringer’s son and grandson. Just a reminder, we again had some no shows. Fortunately we were above the minimum cut off of 30 so the Council did not have to pay for unused meals. We understand unexpected things happen. As a gentle reminder, if your participation is unlikely, probably best to not make a reservation.
We were joined by Officers Matt Sandy, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and Sergeant Richard Creech and Officer Jacob Long, NC Wildlife.
Membership Chair Susie Deschenes said volunteers are still needed to man the safety trailer at the Littleton Festival, Sept 3rd from 12:30 to 3 PM. This is an easy way to receive free of charge a Water Safety Council white golf shirt. If you are available, please let Wyatt or Susie know. Come early, get a preferred parking spot then spend the afternoon talking about water safety.
The last meeting minutes were approved and are posted on the website. The previously distributed finance report was approved (Lin/Debbie).
After the usual fine buffet, Wyatt introduced Sergeant Creech.
He reminded everyone his jurisdiction covers Kerr Lake, Gaston, Roanoke Rapids and Lake Royale and all of this is covered with 7 Wildlife Officers. Las year was a busy year on the North Carolina waters near us. There were 172 boating related arrests. 24 were charged with Boating Impaired. Each arrest takes the officer off the water 2-3 hours to process the arrest and paperwork. The most common violation is operating after dark with no running lights. We were reminded to not run at night with docking lights on. The only lights visible should be red and green and the white stern light. Use of the colorful LED lights are not permitted after dark.
Before the Memorial Day holiday period, one boater was struck by lightning.
In North Carolina waters, Officer Long reminded attendees if there is a water violation in process, call 800-662.7137.
Officer Long’s mobile number is 919.727.2937.
Sergeant Creech can be reached at 252.886.3614.
In Virginia waters, violation should be reported to 800.237.5712.
Sergeant Matt Sandy can be reached at mobile 434.262.3428.
All officers reminded us if you see something, say something.
Winner of 50/50 for $51.00 was Linda Brannan.
Our next meeting is June 29 and the 911 Community Task Force will give us an update.
Meeting adjourned at 7:30.
Respectively submitted,
Brian Goldsworthy, Secretary
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Get to know the Lake Gaston Water Safety Council by downloading our PowerPoint presentation below.
We recently learned of the passing of Doug Hughes. Doug was very active with the LKGWSC and was president in 2016. From the family:
Douglas G. Hughes Sr., 78, passed away in the early hours of Sunday March 13 2022, after a battle with heart disease.
Doug, a native of Ithaca NY, is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly, whom he adored; his four sons, John, Richard, Douglas and Anthony; eight grandchildren; and two sisters, Cindy & Tracy.
Doug was loved and respected by all who knew him. Doug had a decorated Navy career of 29 years, from which he retired as a Master Chief.
After moving to Lake Gaston, he was ever active in retirement and devoted himself to civil service serving on multiple commissions, boards and in club positions. He was the Editor in Chief of the Gaston Gazette.
Doug built beautiful model planes and ships, was an avid fisherman, and won more card games than is quantifiable. He will be deeply missed.
A private service will be held for the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Habitat for Humanity or your local animal rescue.
The online guest register may be signed at hockadayfs.com
Arrangements are under the care of Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service of Roanoke Rapids, NC."
Save the date - March 30 at Kennon House!
Our first meeting of the season will be at 6:00 PM with a Dutch treat meal. We know you need your chicken fix. Please join us to meet our new President, Wyatt Andrews. This will be a great opportunity to meet the new board of directors and learn of new plans for 2022.
At our planning session meeting in November, President Wyatt Andrews administers the oath of office to Director Lin Harbold. Lin was not at the October monthly meeting.