Onboard Weather Forecasting
Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Salem Willows Yacht Club (190 Fort Ave, Salem, MA) (get directions)

In less than 2 hours, you will learn :

• Basic Weather Knowledge
• Understanding Clouds & Wind
• Advancing Weather Systems
• Refining Your Own Forecasts

Plus, you will receive a waterproof guide with essential information.

You'll learn everything you need to know about:

• Recognizing early signs of approaching weather
• What the sky, clouds and winds are telling you
• Anticipating storms

The cost for this seminar is $35.00.

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On Board Weather Forecasting Seminar
Monday, April 21, 2010, 6:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Abbot Public LIbrary, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead

This seminar explains the basics of meteorology and how by just using your own observations and simple instruments you can determine the weather conditions you will encounter in the coming 48 hours.  This seminar covers weather systems and how to interpret clouds, winds, temperatures and pressure changes. 

Included is the waterproof McGraw-Hill, Onboard Weather Forecasting,Captain’s Quick Guide as well as a Weather Student Note Book.

This seminar will be taught John Bedrossian, who, though not a meteorologist, has taught weather for over ten years. He is both a sailor and a pilot.

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Using GPS Seminar
Wednesday, April 7, 2010, 6:30-8:30 PM
Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA

This seminar explains the principles of waypoint navigation as used on the water. It then explains how to relate the GPS display to your paper chart position which provides essential information about what is around you.

At the completion of this seminar, you will be able to store waypoints into your GPS, activate them for navigation, and use GPS to keep you on a safe, pre-qualified course of your choosing. You will get a copy of the USPS GPS Guide and a waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain’s Quick Guide Using GPS. The GPS Seminar will be taught by Mike Merriman, who has done extensive coastal sailing.

Instructor: Mike Merriman. Cost of the seminar, including the student kit is $30.00.

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How to Use a Chart
Wednesday, March 31, 2010, 6:30-8:30 PM
Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA

Charts are essential to your safety afloat. Even with GPS and electronic navigation, a you need a chart to tell you what’s between you and your intended destination.  For both paper and electronic charts it is vital that you understand the chart symbols and what they reveal about water depth and what lies ahead.  The GPS can tell you where you are and where you’re going.  Only the chart can tell about the dangers that may lurk nearby.

In less than 2 hours, this entertaining seminar covers what you really need to know and provides you with a waterproof Chart Symbols Guide you can use on your boat. In addition the seminar walks you through the essentials of laying out a safe course, determining the compass course, and even a quick guide to the rules of the road.

Instructor: Brian Schanning. Cost of the seminar is $30.00.

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Using GPS Seminar
Wednesday, November 11, 2009 @ 7:00 PM
Swampscott Senior Center

This seminar explains the principles of waypoint navigation as used on the water. It then explains how to relate the GPS display to your paper chart position which provides essential information about what is around you.

At the completion of this seminar, you will be able to store waypoints into your GPS, activate them for navigation, and use GPS to keep you on a safe, pre-qualified course of your choosing. You will get a copy of the USPS GPS Guide and a waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain’s Quick Guide Using GPS. The GPS Seminar will be taught by Mike Merriman, who has done extensive coastal sailing.

Cost of the seminar, including the student kit is $30.00.

The Swampscott Senior Center is located behind the new Swampscott High School on Essex Street.
Get directions to Swampscott High School and Senior Center.
See a diagram of the Swampscott High School lot, showing the location of the senior center.

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Marine Radar Seminar
Wednesday, June 3, 2009, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA (get directions)

This seminar covers how radar functions, radar selection, and operation of the radar under various conditions including setting of controls, display interpretation, basic navigation, and collision avoidance using radar.

The kit includes The Radar Book written by Kevin Monahan ($25 retail) and Student Notes with copies of slides. 

The instructor will be Capt. Elizabeth Wolfe, who holds a USCG Radar Observer Unlimited License. She is an instructor at the Freedom Boat Club of Quincy, MA plus is instructor and Deck Crew member for the volunteer vessel Friendship of Salem, National Park Service. We hope to have several demo products on display.

Seminar cost, including student kit  is $35.00.

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Safe Boating Week Begins May 16, 2009

The Marblehead Sail & Power Squadron, a unit of the United States Power Squadrons, will present a safe boating display at Marblehead Landing on, Saturday, May 16th as part of Safe Boating Week.  USCG Vessel Safety Checks will also be performed, by certified Power Squadron members, on boats brought to the Landing, by water or by land.

As part of Safe Boating Week MSPS will also be teaching three boating seminars at the Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant Street, at 6:45 – 8:45 PM.  Each will provide a short focused presentation on topics relevant to today’s boating public. The seminars are as follows; click a seminar name for more details.

• Using GPS
• Knots, Bends and Hitches
• Marine Radar

Registration and payment for course materials is required at least one week prior to the seminar.  Seating is limited.  To register, click one of the Register Now links below or call 781-639-1739.

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KNOTS, BENDS AND HITCHES
Monday, June 1, 2009, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA (get directions)

The Knots, Bends, and Hitches seminar is a hands-on "learn how to tie knots" program geared to a wide range of audiences.  The kit comes with a copy of the USPS Guide Knots, Bends and Hitches for Mariners, a copy of the slide notes and a kit including a die-cut knot board and two lengths of line.  Participants learn about knots, learn to tie a set of the most useful knots, and then get to take the whole package home with them to practice these and a whole host of other knots described in the book.  This seminar will be taught by Dan Himes and Steve Jerome.

Seminar cost, including student kit is $35.00.

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Using GPS Seminar
Wednesday, May 27, 2009, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA (get directions)

GPS has become a common tool for navigation. However using GPS on the water is distinctly different from a moving map display in your car. This seminar explains the principles of waypoint navigation as used on the water. It then explains how to relate the GPS to your paper chart position which provide essential information about what is around you.

The seminar also shows how to operate your GPS – what the buttons do, what the screens show, and how to access the functions you need. A handheld GPS is used as the demonstration model, but all GPS receivers function similarly. At the completion of this seminar, you will be able to store waypoints into your GPS, activate them for navigation, and use GPS to keep you on a safe, pre-qualified course of your choosing. You’ll also get some tips for choosing a GPS if you don’t currently own one. You will get a copy of the USPS GPS Guide and a waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain’s Quick Guide Using GPS to take aboard to remind you of the steps, or to show another of your crew how to use your GPS.  The GPS Seminar will be taught by Brian Schanning, who has done extensive coastal and blue water sailing.

Cost of the seminar, including the student kit is $30.00.

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On Board Weather Forecasting Seminar
Monday, March 23, 6:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Abbot Public LIbrary, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead (get directions)

This seminar explains the basics of meteorology and how by just using your own observations and simple instruments you can determine the weather conditions you will encounter in the coming 48 hours.  This seminar covers weather systems and how to interpret clouds, winds, temperatures and pressure changes.  Included is the waterproof McGraw-Hill, Onboard Weather Forecasting,Captain’s Quick Guide as well as a Weather Student Note Book. This seminar will be taught John Bedrossian, who, though not a meteorologist, has taught weather for over ten years. He is both a sailor and a pilot.

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Sail Trim Seminar
Monday, March 16, 6:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Abbot Public LIbrary, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead (get directions)

This seminar introduces the student to sail theory in simple terms and shows with practical demonstrations how to adjust sails for best performance under a wide range of conditions.  The seminar comes with a student Note Book and waterproof Captain’s Quick Guide, Sail Trim and Rig Tuning, written by North Sails This instructor will be Dr. Jose Venegas.  His cruising/racing experience of 20+ years includes 3 consecutive first in class in Corinthian 200-Chapman Bowl, 2 Beringer races and a second in class in a Marion – Bermuda race.

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Using VHF and VHF/DSC Marine Radio Seminar
Wednesday, March 18, 6:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Abbot Public LIbrary, 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead (get directions)

Radio is the mainstay of coastal communication and essential for emergency communications. Digital Selective Calling (DSC) is rapidly becoming a reality as more Coast Guard Rescue 21 System operations come on board. This seminar explains basic VHF and DSC operations. A CD is included with a DSC Simulator that allows you to practice on your computer at home. A waterproof McGraw-Hill Captains’ Quick Guide, Using VHF and SSB Radio, is included. The instructor will be Capt. Elisabeth Wolfe, who holds a FCC GMDSS License; she is an instructor at the Freedom Boat Club of Quincy, MA plus is instructor and Deck Crew member for the volunteer vessel Friendship of Salem, National Park Service.

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How to Buy or Sell a Boat
Saturday, October 18, 2008, 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Boston Yacht Club, Yardarm

Faculty: Experts in Boat Surveying, Financing and Insurance, Boat yard facilities, Safety and Education

The presentation is open to the public. A light lunch will be served.

There will be programs for children to include Safe Boating, films coloring books, PFD race etc. There will be a raffle and gifts for the attendees. The program is for the entire family.

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HOW TO READ A CHART
Saturday, April 5, 2008, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Abbot Public Library - Auditorium - 235 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA 01945

This seminar furthers boating safety by  teaching the details of the marine chart as a most valuable tool for anyone venturing out on the ocean.

INSTRUCTORS: Steve Jerome and Dan Himes

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

FEES: A fee of  $30.00 is charged to cover costs of teaching manuals, powerpoint slides and other materials. 

REGISTRATION: Pre-registration is appreciated. Late registrants please arrive by 9:30 AM to register day of seminar.

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BOAT RECOMMISSIONING FOR THE SPRING
Wednesday, March 5, 2008 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Boston Yacht Club, Yardarm Building

This seminar provides a discussion of how to get your boat ready for launching in the Spring. Get answers to all of your questions from an expert.  Handouts and refreshments provided.

INSTRUCTOR: Rob Owen of Power Marine

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

FEE:  $5.00 members; $10.00 non-members.  Pre-registration and payment is requested.

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THE ART AND SCIENCE OF SAILING
(Also known as USPS "Sail Trim" seminar)

Saturday, February 9, 2008, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Snow Date: February 16)
Abbot Library Auditorium

Photo courtesy of GeekPhilosopher.com

This seminar shows in clear and simple terms how to use and adjust sails for optimum performance under a wide range of conditions. The seminar comes with a waterproof USPS Captain’s Quick Guide written by North Sails and Student Notes. The public is invited to attend.

The instructor is Dr. Jose Venegas, member of MSPS, Race Chairman of  the Blue Water Sailing Club, Winner in the Marion-Bermuda Race. The Marblehead Sail & Power Squadron is partnering with the Blue Water Sailing Club in this presentation.

A fee of $25.00 covers a waterproof USPS Captain’s Quick Guide written by North Sails and Student Notes. Refreshments will be served.

Pre-registration is requested. Sorry, this course is sold out and we are not accepting more registrations. Please contact Merrill Feldman if you are interested in attending this seminar in the future.

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Weather Seminar
Wednesday, November 14, 2007, 6:45 - 8:45 PM
Marblehead Abbot Library, First Floor

Forecasts predict the weather systems coming your way, but they do not always tell you exactly when they will arrive in your area, or how severe they will be where you are.  In this seminar you will learn how some simple instruments and visual observations can give you the edge you need for safer and more enjoyable boating.   Seminar leader John Bedrossian explains weather systems and how you can use changes in clouds, wind direction, temperature and pressure to anticipate and assess passing weather fronts.  An On Board Weather Forecasting quick guide and 63-page Fundamentals of Weather book are included.

The fee of $35.00 covers the cost of text book manual, powerpoint visual aids, handouts and refreshments. 

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Winterizing Your Boat

Wednesday, October 24, 2007 @ 7 PM
Boston Yacht Club Yard Arm (Get Directions)

Get your boat ready for winter with this timely 2-hour MSPS seminar. Instructor Robbie is a USCG licensed captain and proprietor of Power Marine. Robbie has years of experience in helping owners with winterizing, commissioning and maintaining engine, hull and related boat systems.

In addition to guiding you through the winterizing proces, this year Robbie will cover what the new ethanol gasoline mixtures mean to your engine, your gas tanks and your maintenance schedules.

Whether you winterize yourself or pay someone, getting it done the right way will save you time and expense in the spring. Get your questions answered now!

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WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU’RE AGROUND – OR WORSE
Seminar: Monday, March 19, 2007, 7:30 to 8:45 pm
Abbot Public Library -- 235 Pleasant St., Marblehead MA

New England weather has been very rough recently for local boaters, with significant nor’easters striking the North Shore in May and October over the last few years.  What should you do, despite all your preparations, if the worst happens and you learn your boat is on the beach?

The Marblehead Yacht Club, in cooperation with the Marblehead Sail & Power Squadron and the Marblehead Flotilla of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, is sponsoring a presentation that will guide you on what to do (and not do) if faced with a worst case scenario.

Guest speaker, and boater, Attorney David J. Farrell, Jr. will review marine insurance policy coverage, the distinction between towage and salvage for a recreational vessel, what to expect if there is a salvage claim and how wreck removal is handled.  The presentation will include video clips and photos from recent storms, Hurricane Bob (the last hurricane to hit New England) and the Banshee tragedy.

The seminar is free and open to the public.  For further information contact MYC organizer Doug Burgess by email or at 781-581-2453.

David Farrell practices law in South Falmouth, MA, specializing in Admiralty and Maritime law.  He is a graduate of Williams College (BA), Columbia University, (MPA) and Duke University School of Law.  A USCG Licensed Master, he is the author numerous articles, spoken to a wide variety of industry and professional organizations and is on the Board of Directors of the Maritime Law Association of the United States.

Local Hazards Seminar - Updated Edition
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 @ 7:00 PM
VFW Post 2005, 321 West Shore Drive, Marblehead, MA

Don't Run Aground - Avoid Local Boating Hazards. Expand your knowledge of local waters.  The popular, long running seminar "Local Hazards - Updated Edition" will be presented by the Marblehead Sail & Power Squadron on Wednesday, April 18 at 7 pm at VFW Post 2005, 321 West Shore Drive, Marblehead.

This two-hour session will demonstrate how many submerged hazards are near, or on routes commonly used by local boaters.  You will learn about places where even experienced boaters have run aground in Marblehead and Salem-Sound waters -- despite observing government navigation aids.  The 2007 update includes dozens of new photos showing hazards as they appear at both high and low water; vividly illustrating the differences caused by extreme tides.

Do you enjoy a night time trip to Manchester for dinner or a daytime voyage to Boston?  Nicholas Mango will offer tips on navigating Salem and Marblehead harbors at night so that your return will be without incident.

Even the most seasoned boater who has "local knowledge" will probably learn something new from this presentation. So bring your charts and a pencil to record valuable tips.  This is also an opportunity to share your "close calls" with fellow boaters.

The seminar is open to teens as well as adults.  Pre-register before April 16 or call 781-968-5027.  Light refreshments will be provided.  Instructors will be Liz Garthe, Nicholas Mango and Martha Walton.  Free for members; $5 fee for non-members.

Boating Seminars to kick off National Safe Boating Week

May 21-24, 2007

The Marblehead Sail & Power Squadron announces a Seminar series that starts with three topics of interest to all boaters – power or sail.  All sessions will be held at the Marblehead VFW, 321 West Shore Drive, starting at 6:45 pm. You can register for each seminar individually, or you can register for all three seminars and save $10.00 ($85.00 instead of $95.00).

Using VHF Radio (May 21) – Marine radio can help you keep in touch with others and is essential for getting help rapidly in case of emergencies.  Mike Merriman, will cover VHF basics as well as what the new Digital Selective Calling (DSC) technology can do for you as the Coast Guard Rescue 21 System goes on-line over the next few years. All students will receive DSC simulator software so you can practice DSC operation on your computer at home. A waterproof, tri-fold “Quick Guide” Using VHF is included with all key information that you and your crew can refer to. This class was completed.

On Board Weather Forecasting (May 23)  Forecasts predict the weather systems coming your way, but not always when in your area they will arrive and how severe.  In this seminar you will learn how some simple instruments and visual observations can give you the edge you need for safer and more enjoyable boating.   Seminar leader, John Bedrossian explains weather systems and how you can use changes in clouds, wind direction, temperature and pressure to anticipate and assess passing weather fronts.  An On Board Weather Forecasting quick guide and 63-page Fundamentals of Weather book are included. This class was completed.

Using GPS (May 24)  Experienced GPS instructor Alexander Falk will teach you the principles of waypoint navigation and how your GPS plus charts provide essential information about what is around you.  By the end of the evening, you will be able to store waypoints in your GPS, activate them for navigation, and combine them into a safe route. Tips on choosing a GPS will also be reviewed and a Using GPS quick guide is also included to remind you of key concepts or help your crew operate a GPS.

These seminars are the first in a new series developed by the United States Power Squadrons.  The USPS University program is designed to deliver short, focused seminars on topics relevant to today’s boating public in addition to the traditional Public Boating education for which the Power Squadrons have long been known for.  For more information visit www.usps.org.