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