302 Saunders Road, Suite 300

Riverwoods, IL. 60015

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL PUBLIC SAFETY ORGANIZATION!

Dear Fellow Boater:

As volunteers with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, we are responsible for boater education, vessel safety checks, marine dealer visits, navigational aids and safety patrols as well as search and rescue (SAR) operations. As part of Team Coast Guard, the Waukegan Auxiliary Flotilla 3-5 reports directly to Coast Guard Station Kenosha and participates in, and performs, all missions of the US Coast Guard with the exception of law enforcement. You may recall the unfortunate incident last year where a man and his two children sailing on Lake Michigan failed to return to port. It was an auxiliary boat that located the first body in this tragic case. The resources that we offer to assist the Coast Guard in its missions are invaluable. Each and every year together we donate thousands of man-hours, our own dollars and other resources to support its programs.

Our Waukegan flotilla operates its own communications center at Waukegan Harbor as well as its own boat for safety patrols and SAR missions. However, our boat, which was built in 1969, was beyond its serviceable life to perform our purposes safely, especially given the lifesaving nature of our operations.

As such, the flotilla has been forced to retire the boat and, (this is where you fit in), without a replacement, will be unable to perform its most critical, often lifesaving, missions. The Waukegan Water Safety Association, which owns the boat and provides it to the auxiliary for its use at no charge, has embarked on an important fundraising campaign so that it may purchase a suitable replacement boat. By raising $85,000 (with $39,000 attained thus far) we will be able to purchase a new (or slightly used) safe boat made for SAR. We must also equip it with the tools necessary to safely respond to those in need, including the required tow gear, navigational and other safety equipment.

Let me point out that this boat will never be used for personal or recreational use. Only qualified Auxiliarists under orders from the United States Coast Guard will be authorized to use it. As such, the Coast Guard reimburses operating costs for fuel and oil and the flotilla and its volunteer members provide any other operating expenses. The government does not provide any funds to purchase the vessel.

Whether you are a boater or not, the fact is that our efforts provide various users of Lake Michigan the safety and comfort that their water and boating recreation deserves. Just knowing we are there can often make a difference. When the need arises, we unselfishly provide assistance to others in need. However, we are unable to do so without the proper equipment.

On a personal note, my commitment to this worthwhile, often life saving, cause is strong (400-500 hours per year and over $5,000 towards this campaign) and I am hoping that I can count on your support either individually or through your company or foundation. All donors of $1,000 or more will be recognized on a plaque aboard the boat. All donors, regardless of amount, will be recognized on a certificate located in the communications center. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss this request and should you have any questions I can be reached at 847.444.5788. I thank you in advance for your generous support of the Waukegan Water Safety Association in its continuing efforts on behalf of boaters throughout the Chicago area.

Respectfully submitted,

WAUKEGAN WATER SAFETY ASSOCIATION

Randy D. Podolsky
President

P.S. The Waukegan Water Safety Association is an IRS recognized not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and your donation is tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.

YES! I want your team there for us and others…Enclosed is my check (made payable to the Waukegan Water Safety Association). Keep up the good work!

( ) $5,000 ( ) $2,500 ( ) $1,000

( ) $500 ( ) $250 ( ) Other $__________

NAME:

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ADDRESS:

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INSCRIBE DONORS’ PLAQUE OR CERTIFICATE FROM:

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