Golden Isles Sail & Power Squadron is Launched!

Provisional unit aims to develop a full Squadron for the Golden Isles

July 1, 2003 -- Long overdue, the Golden Isles can now lay claim to their own provisional chapter of the United States Power Squadron (USPS), established in 1914 as a non-profit service organization dedicated to boating safety and education. As a provisional squadron, the Golden Isles Sail and Power Squadron (GISPS) will be offering safe boating classes and building its membership in order to become a full-fledged squadron.

The principle element of the USPS is promoting education at all levels of boating skill, from the novice to the navigator. This boating education is achieved both through a wide variety of courses and through assorted other programs like the Vessel Safety Check. Administered along with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, this check allows boat operators to be assured that their vessel is fully outfitted for safe and proper use or to learn what they should do to bring the vessels into compliance. When all facets of the check are passed, the boat earns a sticker of recognition. The courses, ranging from basic boat safety and operation to everything from engine maintenance and sail to piloting and navigation are offered free of any charge other than for materials used in the course.

Another element of the organization is service through Cooperative Charting. Through this program, members work with the National Oceanographic Survey to determine and report corrections to navigational charts and try to help keep them as accurate as possible. Such work in this area is limited at best and will be a most welcome addition to the community.

Finally, the local squadrons function as boating fraternities where people sharing this interest get together informally for numerous functions revolving around the water and public service.

People interested in boating and boat safety are invited to contact this group through its web-site at www.gisps.org to learn more about opportunities and services of the USPS and to take part in its work and its social activities.