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A Hidden Nautical Gem in Honolulu – The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum

Written by WebAdmin on January 27, 2016. Posted in Uncategorized

The bombing of Pearl Harbor remains one of the most traumatic events in recent United States history and there are a number of museums that commemorate it. However, few museums are like the The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, a museum dedicated to the submarine known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger.” On December 7, 1942, exactly one year after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, the Bowfin was launched into war. It was named after the bowfin, a predatory fish known for its voraciousness and it lived up to its name. It would go on to sink 44 enemy ships during nine separate and highly successful war patrols. The Bowfin was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation and a Navy Unit Commendation. It was also one of the only 15 ships saved from becoming scrap metal for the army when it was acquired by the Pacific Fleet Memorial Association in 1979. Subsequently, […]

Boat Donation: Behind the Scenes by Michael Vatalaro

Written by Action Donation Services on August 25, 2015. Posted in Uncategorized

Donating your boat to charity certainly is a generous thing to do, but it could be financially smart, too, if you haven’t been able to sell it in this market. Here’s how it works.Let’s say that you’re like I am, an owner of a good-sized older boat that runs well, but the interior is dated. In my case, it’s a 32-foot fly bridge sedan from 1979. Fully refurbished and in the right local market, according to comparables, it might go for as much as $18,000. But in its present condition and location, the best offer I’ve received in more than a year on the market is $10,500.After my broker’s commission (and a few items to address after a survey and sea trial), I’ll be lucky to walk away with around $8,000.Fred Kettinger from Norristown, PA, took this beautiful sunset shot on the Sassafras River, in Maryland for our photo contest […]

State by State RV and Towing Laws

Written by WebAdmin on January 26, 2016. Posted in Uncategorized

If you’re traveling between states, make sure you learn the towing laws of both states as laws can be quite different from one state to another. However, most states have very fluid towing laws and the laws are not enforced too stringently. There are a few general rules pertaining to trailers that carry higher weights that require breakaway switches that automatically engage in case the trailer disengages from the car. Other than that, there aren’t many laws absolutely set in stone because most laws are aimed only at truckers who drive large big rigs.AA1Car: Has very good information on trailer brakes, which are very important for trailer safety.Trailer Towing Laws: Provides a list of things you should focus on when towing, like if your clearance lights work and if you have proper reflectors. They also explain how RV towing regulations work.The United States Department of Transportation: Provides excellent tips on […]

Take Action & Donate to Our Troops

Written by Action Donation Services on August 25, 2015. Posted in Uncategorized

The troops and soldiers of the United States for many centuries have fought for the freedom we have today. As citizens of the United States, we should give our absolute and highest respect and care to those who have served and are currently serving. In any case, whether it may be a veteran who has served in the past, a soldier who is currently serving now, or a wounded soldier coming home, it is extremely important that we show them support in any way we can. We need to remember that the troops and soldiers of our armed services are putting the citizens of the United States before themselves. A selfless act and a fight for the freedom of our country should be supported.There are many ways you can show your support. You can show your support by donating money, sending letters, sending care packages, or even helping out a […]

Maritime History Resources

Written by WebAdmin on January 26, 2016. Posted in Uncategorized

Maritime history is an interesting subject that many people ignore every day. These people are usually unaware of the fact that colleges around the world offer programs and coursework on this very topic, and that maritime programs often make boat donations and participate in community events as well. Students interested in the marine industry study everything from specific types of ships to nautical archaeology, which focuses on the artifacts left behind. The following resources provide a better understanding of the topic.Researching ShipsShip and Passenger Lists: gives steps on searching for specific vessels and passengers on those vessels.Researching Ships and Seafarers: discusses how someone would research a specific ship based on name.Ships & Passenger Lists: offers resources on researching ships.Maritime Information Exchange: U.S. Coast Guard database of ships.Libraries and DatabasesCalifornia Maritime Academic Library: complete library with searchable database dedicated to maritime history.Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society: historical society focused on providing […]