 | | PHOTO: Facebook/Coast Guard Foundation |
It's tough to get a roomful of nearly 700 people to pay attention, but you could have heard a pin drop the evening of October 13 in New York City. That's when the nonprofit Coast Guard Foundation hosted its annual Salute to the United States Coast Guard.
The Foundation manages endowments supporting Coast Guard cadets at the Coast Guard Academy, plus offers financial assistance, scholarships, and more to Coast Guard members and families. The Salute honored several Coast Guard members who demonstrated exceptional heroism.
The crew of Air Station Sitka in Alaska, for example, rescued a hiker (yes, a hiker) lost and injured on a mountain, during rapidly deteriorating weather conditions. Then there was the crew of Station Tillamook Bay in Oregon, who rescued a fishing-boat crew when their vessel capsized and ripped in half in dangerous surf. Another honoree: A Michigan-based Coast Guardsman who saved 12 people from drowning in Lake Michigan...on his day off, when he just so happened to see swimmers in trouble.
We all know these men and women risk their lives on a daily basis. They say they're simply doing their job, but they deserve special honors, and our support. To learn more, or to donate, visit the Coast Guard Foundation website.
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Burger Boat Co. Joins Wood Forever Program
Burger Boat Company has become the first yacht builder to join Wood Forever, a nonprofit focused on sourcing wood certified as being environmentally and ethically responsible.
Wood Forever was established in 2010 by the foundation of Prince Albert II of Monaco, to combat deforestation and the related increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Wood Forever recognizes that yacht owners wish to outfit their yachts with exotic woods. However, few owners realize that timbers can come from suppliers that practice illegal logging and/or contribute to deforestation. Some companies have been unaware of the behaviors as well. Wood Forever helps all parties obtain wood that avoids these problems.
Jim Ruffolo, president of Burger, says the reason the shipyard joined join Wood Forever was a practical decision. Its on-site joinery shop regularly selects woods for interior decor and exterior decks and decoration. "We have already started an in-depth look into our supply chain to trace the origin of wood timbers that will be used in the construction of our yachts," he says in a statement. "In doing so, we are adopting a socially responsible behavior toward the environment, our clients, and ourselves as part of our long-term vision." Ruffolo adds that Burger hopes to see additional shipyards support Wood Forever.
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In Other News...
Jongert signed contracts for two motoryachts at the Monaco Yacht Show. One will measure 144 feet (44 meters), while the other will be 141 feet (43 meters). Both are anticipated for delivery in 2013. The projects are in addition to two new megayacht models Jongert recently signed. ...Curvelle continues to work on its first catamaran, a Quaranta model, with the hull recently completed. At about 111 feet (33.7 meters), the yacht is constructed of fiberglass and carbon fiber. She'll feature four decks and accommodate 12 in six cabins. Those cabins will be able to transform into three large suites if so desired. Delivery is set for late 2012. |
