USS Southern Cross Handbook

USS SOUTHERN CROSS NCC-63550
The Pride of the Pacific
Member’sHandbook
&Chapter Constitution
USS SOUTHERN CROSS
NCC-63550
Member’s Handbook & Chapter Constitution
USS Southern Cross NCC 63550
a member of STARFLEET: the International Star Trek Fan Association
www.uss-southerncross.com
Version 1.1/0607
On behalf of the Command Officers, I welcome you to your tour of duty on
board our vessel.
Whilst our ship may be operating at one of the furthest boundaries of the Fleet,
we have an important role to play within the boundaries of Region 11 and we are
certain that you will do your best to assist us on our journey of operating an
efficient and professionally organised operation.
We are proud of the achievements our ship has made to date and we look forward
to the advances and successes yet to come.
With your help, the USS Southern Cross will continue to raise the focus of all crews
from the Southern Hemisphere, and to all others on our planet – and by doing so,
provide ample opportunity for us all to enjoy and take pleasure from our efforts
and involvement.
This Handbook has been designed to assist you with the rules and regulations of
our chapter and as a new crew member on our ship, we hope that you will find the
answers to many of the questions you may have.
This handbook should be read in conjunction with the STARFLEET Membership
Handbook to help give you a full understanding of the requirements of your being
a member of STARFLEET International.
“Kia kaha” (stand tall) and be proud to be a member of the USS Southern Cross
Colonel Bruce O’Brien
Commanding Officer – USS Southern Cross
O.I.C. 11th Brigade, Starfleet Marine Corps
O.I.C. 377th MSG, 4th Battalion, 11th Brigade, SFM
ii
Table of Contents
Commanding Officer’s Welcome
Index
Chapter One –Introduction
History
Ship Details
Chapter Two – Chapter Constitution
General Administration
Membership
Membership Categories
Membership Renewals
Membership Responsibilities
Rank & Promotion Policy
Promotions
Promotions Committee
Approved Promotion Criteria: Time in Grade
Senior Staff
Promotions Policy & Points Summaries
Promotion Points Chart & Time In Grade Summary
Promotion Points Table
Chapter Three - Department Responsibilities
Department Head Responsibilities
Command
Cadet Corps
Communications
Engineering
Medical
Operations
Science
Tactical/Security
Ships Services
Chapter Four – Uniforms & Dress Codes
Uniforms - Fleet
Uniforms - Marine
Divisional Colours Chart
Ranks & Insignia
Chapter Five – Organisational Structure
Organisational Chart
Chapter Six – Democratic Processes
CO Election Process
Chapter Seven – Starfleet Marines Detachment
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Chapter
1
INTRODUCTION
W
elcome aboard the USS Southern Cross – NCC 63550 - a chapter of
Starfleet International.
As a fully correspondence chapter, The USS Southern Cross has crew
from all over Australasia, the United States, or from other parts of the world - and
we welcome any and all new members.
Our focus is to provide a chapter where those of us unable to participate in club
meetings due to distance, health reasons or simply by choice.
Our members regularly meet for on-line correspondence or by postings through
our Yahoo Group pages.
As a correspondence chapter, virtually 100% of our chapter activity takes place
online or via other electronic means. We recognize that not all members may have
internet or computer access however we have chosen to participate completely by
electronic means as this method best suits the very wide-ranging diversity domicile
of our members.
Please advise the Chief Operations Officer should you require assistance with any
communication program that will suit your needs if you are unsure on how to
proceed.
1
I N T R O D U C T I O N
History
This incarnation of the USS Southern Cross was established in August 2006 by CO,
Bruce O’Brien and XO, Wayne Smith – and was then officially launched as a
chapter of Starfleet International as a ‘chapter-in-training’, on the 14/11/2006.
The original USS Southern Cross was a Miranda-class Starship, launched from
Sydney in 1981, and a ship bearing the name Southern Cross had been in
commission as a Region 11 vessel until 2004.
The commissioning of this new vessel, came about from the requirement to cover
the needs of a vast region, spanning 4 or 5 different countries, in four different
time zones, that were not easily met by meeting-type chapters.
From first-launch to final commissioning nine months later in August 2007, the
ship’s complement went from 11 to 35 members, with new members joining each
month.
Ships Details
NCC-63550, the USS Southern Cross, is an Akira-class Battle Cruiser, designed for
rapid deployment in attack and defence.
The Akira-class battle cruiser is an advanced Federation starship used by Starfleet.
Akira-class starships featured prominently in the 2373 Borg attack on Earth and in
the Dominion War. IIt has been designed with an unprecedented level of
automation, and, combined with its advanced tactical systems, is one of the most
powerful combat ships in the Alpha Quadrant.
It has 15 torpedo launchers and two shuttle-bays - one in front, with three doors,
and one in the back. This configuration of shuttle-bays allows for the launching of
its fighter craft from the front bay, with recovery through the rear doors. This
would enable maximum protection for returning craft.
The ship carries a contingent of fighter craft, used in both offensive and defensive
actions – with special emphasis given on ship-to-ship combat.
As an offensive/defensive medium range tactical cruiser, the USS Southern Cross is
currently on patrol work in the Romulan Neutral Zone Border, forming part of
the 11th Fleet, Rapid Deployment Force (SF Marine) as assigned to the Task
Force: Seventh MEU (under General Charles Hazlitt Upham) TacFleet. Our
current home port is at Starbase 12 in the Gamma 400 Sector.
While the USS Southern Cross clearly upholds the Federation’s intent of maintaining
a peaceful existence within the Quadrants, she also provides a very powerful
offensive/defensive weapon.
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Chapter
2
CHAPTER CONSTITUTION
T
he structure of the Constitution of the USS Southern Cross is based upon
the principles of compliance and active participation by the members. While the
rules and regulations as listed in the STARFLEET Members Manual will apply as
the controlling influence on a administrative and functional activities of the
chapter, USS Southern Cross members may also find other unique regulations,
guides or rules that may apply, that form part of the regional requirements.
Application of the rules and regulations as stipulated by STARFLEET
International will always provide the basis for chapter management.
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General Administration
General administration is managed by the Command Staff, which consists of the
Commanding Officer, Executive Officer and the Second Officer.
The Command Staff is responsible for keeping the chapter up and running, from
seeing to members needs - and to ensuring the chapter is in compliance with both
Region 11 and Starfleet International rules and regulations.
Command Staff appoints all Department heads, or considers applications from
Starfleet members of the ship to apply for a Department Head position.
If any of the Command Officers cannot fulfill their duties the Commanding
Officer can either appoint another member to a command position or open the
position up for applications.
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Membership
1. Other than the annual fees to SFI for individual members, no membership fee
applies to the USS Southern Cross – although this may be reviewed from time to
time.
2. Crewmembers are not required to join STARFLEET International (SFI), but
are encouraged to do so. Membership in SFI is mandatory for the top three
positions on the ship; for members holding position as a Department Head
(or to be considered for an HOD position), and for enrolment as a member of
the Starfleet Marine Corps.
3. Crewmembers are required to join a ship's division in order to be considered a
participating member, and are encouraged to do so. Members not selecting a
division will be assigned "Unassigned Crew" status by the Executive Officer
pending automatic transfer to a Department. It is possible to change
Department at a later date, if desired.
4. Once a member, all crew must respond to the membership audit every six
months to remain active. Audit forms will be sent to you by the Chief
Operations Officer, via your Department Chief. A prompt response will be
expected.
5. Communication will be via Internet so it is important that each crewmember
has Internet, E-Mail capabilities.
6. Crewmembers may hold one of the following membership types i. ACTIVE:
A crewmember with USS Southern Cross, is signed up as a crewmember in a ship's
division, and has subscribed to the message group. Has voting privileges.
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ii. ASSOCIATE:
A primary crewmember of a different ship, who does not hold an Active
membership on the USS Southern Cross or a crew member who is not a member of
SFI. Associate members do not have voting privileges.
iii. UNASSIGNED CREW:
A club member that does not belong to a specific division within the club.
Unassigned Crew cannot hold positions within the club and are NOT eligible for
promotion. Unassigned Crew do not have voting privileges.(note: this is only a
temporary position as all crew will be assigned to a Division)
iv. AMBASSADOR:
Honourary memberships that are given to recognise friends of the ship or to
individuals who uphold the ideals of STAR TREK’s brighter future, and help
contribute to it through their actions in their community. Also, bestowed upon
representatives from other fan clubs that participate in the USS Southern Cross
Diplomatic Corps. Ambassadors do not have voting privileges.
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Membership Categories
Membership on the USS Southern Cross is broken into the two following categories:
Primary Membership:
Being a Member of good standing in Starfleet International (that is, membership
dues paid up to date) who has designated the USS Southern Cross, NCC-63550 as
his or her chapter.
or Associate Membership:
Any Member of the USS Southern Cross, NCC-63550 who is not a member of
STARFLEET or is a STARFLEET member who has chosen another
STARFLEET chapter as his or her designated chapter of record is considered an
“Associate Member”.
Crewmembers are not required to join STARFLEET International, but are
encouraged to do so.
Membership in STARFLEET is mandatory for the top three positions on the ship
and for the Heads of Departments (HOD) to ensure smooth and effective
operation. Membership of SFI is also required for those members wishing to join
the STARFLEET Marine Corps (SFMC)
Crewmembers are required to join a ship's department, and are encouraged to do
so. The Command Officers will assign members who have not selected a
department, into a department that Command feels appropriate.
It is however possible to change Departments at a later date, if desired.
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The USS Southern Cross is an active chapter of STARFLEET International (SFI).
The ship is registered with this international fan club as NCC-63550. The control
and operation of this chapter/starship is established according to SFI guidelines.
This ship may not leave or be transferred out of SFI without a majority vote to
depart SFI by the SFI Active Paid-up membership only. Although, this ship allows
Non-SFI members to participate, Non-SFI members MAY NOT vote on Starfleet
International Issues.
Non-STARFLEET members of other ships are invited to participate in our
activities, but only crewmembers of the USS Southern Cross who are STARFLEET
International
members
may
hold
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positions
as
Senior
Staff
CHAPTER
CONSTITUTION
Membership Renewals
Membership renewal dates are clearly labeled on the SFI membership cards, as
well as each member’s personal records as held by Operations Department
(member records).
You may also request SFI membership information directly from the Office of the
Chief of Computer Operations SFI and information of your Southern Cross records
from the chapter’s Chief Operations Officer.
Penalties may affect both your SFI and USS Southern Cross membership, should
you not renew within the guidelines as stipulated in the SFI members Handbook
(refer to page 23 of this manual for further detail)
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Membership Responsibility
The Command Staff of the USS Southern Cross, NCC-63550 will not create an
exhaustive list of how it is expected for a member of the ‘Cross to behave, but
leave it up to individual members to exercise responsibility for any action they may
take as a crew member of the USS Southern Cross. If any member of USS Southern
Cross feels that another member had not acted in the best interest of the club, she
or he may Email the USS Southern Cross Commanding Officer who will take any
measures she or he deems necessary. Each instance will be reviewed on a case-bycase basis.
Important Reminders:
1. The USS Southern Cross is a family oriented chapter/ship of STARFLEET
International. By this we mean, that all materials that are posted to the email
group, must be suitable for viewing by all ages The Internet allows users of all ages
to interact with our ship, any material which is deemed to be vulgar, obscene,
sexually oriented, or pornography must NOT be used with any reference to
STARFLEET International or the USS Southern Cross. Any individual found
violating this rule; will be asked to cease and desist these communications. Only
ONE WARNING will be issued. Failure to stop these communications after this
warning will result in the individual(s) immediate removal from all USS Southern
Cross’s activities and membership, including but not limited to removal from the
membership roster and email group. STARFLEET International members will
also be notified that a letter of reprimand will be sent to the Regional Coordinator
and STARFLEET Operations for possible disciplinary action. There are other
organizations on the Internet that thrive for this type of non-family oriented
communication, please use those resources in lieu
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2. Any STARFLEET crewmember joining the U.S.S. Southern Cross will be
required to meet all “time in grade” requirements for promotion and any points as
applied by the chapter’s point structure.
3. The USS Southern Cross will recognize rank transfers from other STARFLEET
International ships, with notification from the other ships' Captain or Personnel
Officer, however to maintain this rank, transferring crew will need to complete the
Southern Cross internal exam (SCE) within 90 days of their posting.
4. Non-STARFLEET members cannot advance past the rank of Crewman.
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Rank & Promotion Policy
The USS Southern Cross uses both enlisted and commissioned ranks of both
STARFLEET and the STARFLEET Marine Corps.
All new members who are also members of SFI, are assigned the grade of E-1
(Crewman Apprentice / Private First Class).
Because we feel that knowledge of how STARFLEET operates is important, any
member wishing to receive a commission as an officer must take and pass the
Officer’s Training Course offered by STARFLEET Academy. Once done, the
member receives a commission to the grade of O-1 (Ensign / Second Lieutenant),
although it is emphasized that members who have passed OTS are not required to
accept an enlisted rank should they choose so.
Promotion from thereon, are awarded to those individuals who attend social
events, participate in USS Southern Cross-sponsored events, and provide assistance
and service to the club, Region, and STARFLEET, and have otherwise
accumulated sufficient Promotion Points and/or have fulfilled the necessary ‘time
in grade’.
Senior appointments, (e.g. assignment as a Department Head), does not
automatically result in promotion although consideration for this increased
responsibility will be taken into consideration by the Promotions Committee.
The grade of O-5 (Commander / Lieutenant Colonel) is, in general, the highest
rank that one can attain without assuming command of the chapter or being
involved at the Regional / International level. Officer’s reaching this grade will
have usually held senior positions in the chapter over a period of a few years, have
been a pro-active member of the chapter, as well as having taken and passed the
Officer’s Command College exam from STARFLEET Academy.
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The grade of O-6 (Captain / Brigadier) can only be granted in one of three ways:
a) by assuming command of the USS Southern Cross or another STARFLEET
chapter.
b) at the discretion of the Regional Coordinator, usually at the recommendation of
the member’s Commanding Officer.
c) by order of the STARFLEET Executive Committee.
The Executive Committee, meeting as the Promotion Board for STARFLEET,
awards all grades of O-7 and higher.
These grades are known as Flag Ranks. Any member may recommend another
member of the grade of O-6 or higher for promotion to Flag Rank. Flag Rank
nomination forms are available from STARFLEET Headquarters
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Promotions
What follows is the Promotion Policy that has been created for the USS Southern
Cross. This "policy" is to be considered a "Guideline". Promotions are based on
individual’s participation within the chapter, in Starfleet International's Starfleet
Academy or the Starfleet Marine Corps Academy. There can be other promotions
issued at the discretion of the Commanding Officer, based on a variety of activity
(charity and community services; service to SFI etc). Also note the time in grade
requirements that must be met before being eligible for the next promotion.
(NOTE: OTS is Officer Training School, OCC is Officer Command College.
Both are schools in the STARFLEET International Starfleet Academy, and are for
Starfleet International members only. These two courses are a requirement for the
top three positions on the ship (CO, XO, SO). OTS is a requirement for any
position as a Head of Department (HOD).
SCE is “Southern Cross Examination” and is a unique exam specifically designed
around knowledge of the ship, chapter, and region. This exam is taken once only
during a tour of duty on the Southern Cross.)
The ranks of Crewman Apprentice/Private First Class (CR/PFC) and Master
Chief Petty Officer/Sergeant Major (MCPO/SGM) are not required to advance to
the next rank (you aren't required to join an international/national Trek fan club
to advance in rank). However, any Non-Commissioned crewmember that joins
STARFLEET International (SFI) will be granted the First Class designation
(Crewman F.C. if they are a Crewman) upon verification of membership.
Those individuals who have not completed or do not wish to complete the
courses for advancement to officer ranks may be promoted through the NonCommissioned ranks.
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These promotions are granted in the same manner as all other promotions, which
will be via the Promotions Committee or by grant of the Captain (CO) of the ship.
The USS Southern Cross will recognize rank transfers from other STARFLEET
International ships, with notification from the other ships' Captain or Personnel
Officer. For rank transfers from non-STARFLEET International ships, rank
assessments will be conducted by the Promotions Committee but will likely be see
the member promoted to a level below that of that rank held in any other
organisation (proof of rank must be supplied by President of the club concerned).
The ‘Cross will only recognize non-STARFLEET ranks up to Commander.
Captain and above must be granted by our chartering organization, STARFLEET
International.
The USS Southern Cross is an active chapter of STARFLEET International (SFI).
The ship is registered with this international fan club as NCC-63550. The control
and operation of this chapter/starship is established according to SFI guidelines.
This ship may not leave or be transferred out of SFI without a majority vote to
depart SFI by the SFI Active Paid-up membership only. Although, this ship allows
Non-SFI members to participate, Non-SFI members MAY NOT vote on
STARFLEET International Issues.
Non-Starfleet members of other ships are invited to participate in our activities,
but only crewmembers of the USS Southern Cross, and STARFLEET International
Active or Associate members may hold positions as Senior Staff.
Contact the Executive Officer if there are questions about this policy.
For promotions based on participation in Academies, verification must be sent to
the ship's Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, or Second Officer. A more
detailed explanation of the courses involved in promotion follows. For further
information, contact either the Executive Officer or the Second Officer.
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Promotions Committee
All promotions are reviewed by the Promotions Committee, comprising the
Command Officers (CO, XO & SO) and the Chief Operations Officer.
Upon receipt of a promotions request/initiation, the Committee will review the
promotion on a case-by-case basis, using the guideline established in this manual
as the basis and guide for action.
Time in Grade (TiG) or Academy achievements will not initiate automatic
promotion – all promotions are to be first reviewed following promotion request
from the crew member concerned.
The Commanding Officer is required to approve all promotions regardless of
application method and may, in some cases, override the decisions made by the
Promotions Committee, should he/she feel the situation is warranted.
Members are reminded that in most cases, promotions are not passed
automatically and that it is initially the responsibility of individual members to
make promotion application, to the Promotions Committee.
Further, nominations for promotion can be made by other crew members,
whereby a nomination for promotion consideration for various reasons, can be
initiated.
Such nominations should be made through the offices of the Chief Operations
Officer in the first instance.
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Approved Promotional Criteria (Time in Grade)
Any crewmember joining the USS Southern Cross will be required to meet the
following time in grade requirements for promotion.
This is to ensure that
promotions are garnered through an orderly process and to ensure that members
do not reach ‘top end’ too quickly and thus lose interest. Also, please remember
that promotions are not automatic - they
require completion of required coursework, activity on and to the ship and or
Fleet as well as Time in Grade (TiG).
For SFI members transferring from other ships, their TiG position will be
considered against the last rank date recorded on the SFI database, or upon
verification to the CO from the Command of the member’s previous chapter.
However, it should be noted that any previous time in grade accumulated by a
transferee will not automatically enable application for promotion on the Southern
Cross but that each case will be treated separately on its merits.
And remember, ALL PROMOTIONS ARE AT THE DISCRETION OF THE
SHIP'S COMMANDING OFFICER.
PLEASE NOTE – Promotions are NOT automatic. It is up to each
member to submit an application to the CO for promotion consideration.
This will need to be supported by Points Summaries etc. The CO has the
right however, to promote ANY crew member at his/her discretion without
reference to the T.I.G. or Points required parameters.
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Senior Staff
1.
The Following positions shall comprise the Senior Staff of the USS
Southern Cross.
Commanding Officer (CO)
Executive Officer (XO)
Second Officer (SO)
Cadet Commander (CC)
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Chief Engineering Officer (CEO)
Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Chief Science Officer (CSO)
Ships Services Officer (CSS)
Chief Tactical/Security Officer (CTO)
OIC MSG
In order to assume command (either the CO or XO position) on a temporary
basis, the Officer must be an active member of SFI. All Senior Staff must be SFI
members and Command positions will be given to those individuals who have
completed OTS and OCC first, then to those Officers who have not completed
OTS and OCC. The CO will post a document stating his selection for Order of
Succession upon taking command. The officers on the document must be
contacted and give consent to their inclusion. The CO, XO, and SO will be at the
top of the document by default without exception.
2.
All Senior staff members are required to be registered as members of
STARFLEET International and must hold OTS to be considered as an HOD
(members appointed as HOD will have 60 days from appointment date to take
and pass OTS if not already held). Senior officers are also encouraged to complete
OCC. The Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, and the Second Officer are
REQUIRED to take and pass both OTS & OCC.
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The rationale is that the CO/XO/SO need to know about both our parent Trek
organization and about the operations of the USS Southern Cross. Department
heads need to understand all the ship operations and should have completed OTS
within 60 days of appointment.
Important note : some crew may wish to hold a position as HOD, but NOT take an
Officer’s rank. While it is a requirement that all HOD have passed OTS, each member has the
right to request retention of their enlisted ranks and promotion to apply as necessary and that they
therefore can reject the usual and immediate appointment to the rank of Ensign. Such cases must
be discussed with the CO.
Here is a table of Positions and Course Requirements:
OFFICER POS’N
SFI
Membership
OTS
OCC
CO
XO
SO
Dept Head (HOD)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
-
Important Note about Senior Staff Positions
A ship the size of the uss Southern Cross requires a significant size support staff.
The Senior Staff provides administrative support to the CO as well as to people in
their respective divisions. The Senior Staff consists of the XO, SO, and the
Department Chiefs. Our most experienced and qualified Personnel usually hold
these positions.
These positions are appointed and/or removed by the
Commanding Officer (CO) of the ship. The CO has the authority to remove any
Senior Staff Officer that he/she feels is not performing in the best interest of the
ship and/or crew. A replacement must be named within a reasonable time frame.
All efforts to counsel and/or advise will be afforded to the Officer before he/she
is relieved of their duties.
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However, please remember that these decisions are being made in the best interest
of the ship. Senior Staff positions often require several hours of work weekly,
supporting their division members and the rest of the crew and should only be
accepted if adequate time can be given to the position. Example, you could be the
best recruiter on the ship, however unless you keep your division members
challenged and interested you will certainly lose them to another division or they
will drop out of our chapter. The Starfleet Officers Code of Conduct governs
Senior Staff positions just like any officer on our ship.
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Promotions Policy & Points Summaries
This section describes in detail the promotion policy on the USS Southern Cross.
The rank of Ensign/2nd Lieutenant will be confirmed upon completion of OTS
(however members who have successfully completed OTS are not required to
accept an enlisted rank, should they choose to remain as a non enlisted member).
The 200 points is just a level by which that is recommended. For Marines to join
Officer ranks, they must have completed not only OTS, but also the Marine “Boot
Camp” exam referred to as PD-10.
As Commander is the stepping stone for Captain, OCC shall be required to hold
that rank. The rank of Captain is granted by the RC, or the Executive Committee.
The totals below are the lowest level at which the CO will consider your name for
such a promotion. The time indicates how long the previous rank must be held for
promotion to be considered.
Points cannot be accumulative. After each allocation, points are zeroed. It is the
responsibility of each member to maintain their own point’s records, but this is
done in conjunction with the Chief Operations Officer.
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Points Chart and Time in Grade Summary
Fleet Rank
Marine Rank
Points
Needed
Time
In
Grade
Other
Comments
Captain
Colonel
5000
2 Years OTS and OCC
Commander
Lieutenant
Colonel
2500
2 Years OTS and OCC
Lt. Commander
Major
1200
1.5
Years
Lieutenant
Marine Captain
600
1 Year OTS
Lieutenant J.G.
1st Lieutenant
300
6
OTS
Months
Ensign
2nd Lieutenant
200
N/A
Master Chief Petty Officer Sergeant Major
200
1
Month
Senior Chief Petty Officer First Sergeant
140
1
Month
Chief Petty Officer
Gunnery
Sergeant
120
1
Month
Petty Officer 1st Class
Staff Sergeant
100
1
Month
Petty Officer 2nd Class
Sergeant
80
1
Month
Petty Officer 3rd Class
Corporal
60
1
Month
Crewman
Lance Corporal
40
1
Month
20
1
Month
Crewman Apprentice
Crewman Recruit
Private 1st Class
Private
0
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OTS
OTS & PD-10
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Promotions Points Table
100 PTS
1. Passing Chapter exam (*SCE) - taken only once during career
2. Passing Starfleet's Officer's Training Course (OTS)
3. Gaining a PhD (Doctorate), from either a Starfleet Academy or Starfleet
Marine Academy course
50 PTS
1. Passing Starfleet's Officer Candidate School (OCC)
2. Gaining a final (or Masters) degree (not Associate Degree) from a Starfleet
Academy or Starfleet Marine Academy course
30 PTS
1. Gaining an Associate Degree from a Starfleet Academy or Starfleet Marine
Academy course.
25 pts
1. Joining Starfleet or renewing membership in Starfleet
20 PTS
1. Passing a Starfleet or Starfleet Marine Academy course
2. Publication of an article in Chapter magazine (points for “article submittal” are
not inclusive) 3. Gaining an Associate Degree in any Starfleet or Starfleet Marine
Academy course
10 PTS
1. Participating in a Ship's work party/charity funding event
2. Volunteer work done at any approved chapter function.
3. Submittal of a half-page or longer article to the Ship's newsletter, on IBM disk
or via e-mail.
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4. Submittal of an original cartoon or artwork, copy ready, to the newsletter.
5. Getting someone to join the Ship.
6. Awarded each month to HOD while position is held
5 PTS
1. Attendance at an online meeting (NOT general chat)
2. Attendance at physical meeting (meeting must be called and authorised by CO)
3. Each hour of participation in a community charity event (requires verification)
4. Each hour of service manning a display or table at a convention or conference.
OTHER POINTS – at the discretion of either the CO or the Promotions
Committee, Points may be attributed to individuals who have evidenced a clear
degree of activity to the good of the chapter, it’s members, SFI as a club, or to
their specific general community at large.
PENALTIES
When a member fails to renew and has been absent over 10 months:
commissioned officers who had previously passed OTS must re-enlist at the
ENSIGN rank unless their Starfleet memberships have been kept up. Members
who were in the PETTY OFFICER ranks or who had been commissioned
officers and NOT passed OTS, must re-enlist as PETTY OFFICER 3RD CLASS
unless their Starfleet memberships have been kept up. The returning member may
appeal this decision to the Senior Officers for review. Consideration will be made
for past service and extenuating circumstances.
* This is a USS Southern Cross specific exam and is not linked to any SFA or
SFMCA activity
(please note – promotion information for members of the Marine detachments, are detailed in the 377th
Unit Member’s Handbook)
23
Chapter
3
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
T
o create a semblance of order and responsibility, the USS Southern Cross is
divided into differing areas (Departments) which mirror those of the structure
on board a Starfleet vessel.
Management of these Departments is considered a senior role and the
responsibility and appointment to the position of a Head of Department (HOD)
is taken seriously.
These senior officers are expected to provide and maintain the necessary functions
and activities that help the chapter to run smoothly and subordinate staff are
deployed in each Department, depending upon the interests, skill or experience of
the member concerned.
Departments have been structured in the manner decided ‘best’ by the HOD, in
conjunction with the CO and these positions can be altered, adjusted, added to or
changed, according to the needs of both the ship and the Department.
24
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Department Heads Responsibilities
Just like Senior Staff positions, these positions are appointed and/or removed by
the Commanding Officer (CO) of the ship. The CO has the authority to remove
any officer that he/she feels is not performing in the best interest of the ship
and/or crew and replace them with another appointed officer. Command
Department personnel have specific assigned duties that support the Command
Staff (CO, XO and SO). Command Division positions often require several hours
of work a week and should only be accepted if adequate time can be given to the
position. Please be assured that any Command Department personnel shall be
required to follow the Starfleet Officers Code of Conduct.
Note: Department Heads (OPS, MED, SCI, ENG, COM, TAC/SEC & SERV)
are requested to appoint Assistant Department Chiefs to help in the running of
the division with the ability to run the department in emergency situations.
1. Monthly Department Status Reports (MSR’s) are to be drafted by Chief
Officers and passed to Command, by the fourth to last day of each month.
Failure to produce these reports could lead to disciplinary action.
2. The Commanding Officer will publish at least a monthly status report to the
crew.
3. Each Department is encouraged to maintain a regular column that is to be
included in the chapter’s bi-monthly newsletter ‘ScuttleButt”. (contact
Executive Officer for details)
4. Each Department is encouraged to support their Department’s staff into
furthering their education and careers within STARFLEET by participation at
STARFLEET or Starfleet Marine Corps Academy.
25
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
COMMAND
The Command Department is charged with the daily running of the starship. The
Commanding Officer, as head of the Command Department, is also the senior
officer aboard the ship.
The Command Department sets and chairs meetings, files reports with both
Regional and International headquarters, and oversees the ship’s finances.
Specific responsibilities of Command Officers are as follows:
Commanding Officer (CO) – Marketing, Advertising, Strategies, Liaison
with Club events, Finances, inter-chapter relations
Executive Officer (XO)
–
Compilation of Monthly reports, Club events,
manages chapter newsletter through office of Editor, back up to CO, awards and
promotions maintenance, web-work and maintenance
Second Officer (SO) – Club events, over sees finances through the office of
Chief Operations Officer, meeting agendas, assists with chapter newsletter
≈≈
CADET CORPS (Cadets)
The mission of the Cadet Corp is to basically supervise, educate and support our
younger members. The Cadet Corps Commander is charged with the
responsibility of ensuring USS Southern Cross Cadets are ensured a safe and secure
environment within which to participate as members of our crew
The departments within Cadet Corps are as follows:
Cadet Corps Commander
Deputy Commander
26
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
COMMUNICATIONS (Comms)
The mission of the Communications division is to report on all things Sci Fi that
is found in media and multi-media formats, through movies, DVD’s, books and
other reading material.
The departments within Communications are as follows:
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
•
Responsible for monthly Division reporting
•
Maintains the Ship’s Log (historical archives of the chapter)
•
Liaises with editor of ScuttleButt on all submissions from the Division
•
Keeps crew advised of latest publications of books, DVD, movies and TV
series within the science fiction arena.
Assistant Chief of Communications
(other officers to be assigned and duties established)
≈≈
ENGINEERING (Eng)
The mission of the Engineering Department is to report on all things new in real
life technology and also what’s new in Treknology found in the media and multimedia formats.
The following list of duties is assigned to the Engineering Department:
•
Report on Real life technological advances.
•
Report on Real life computer & telecommunication info
•
Report on any new Treknology advancements
27
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Engineering sections are as follows:
Chief of Engineering (CEO)
Assistant Chief of Engineering
Treknology Department Officer - Reports on latest Treknology
developments
Techno Head Department Officer - Reporting on Real life technological
advances
Computer Department Officer - Reporting on new advances in computer
technology
≈≈
MEDICAL (Med)
The Medical Department’s role is to provide crew members with real-life data on
Health and Safety issues that can assist with their everyday lives. The Department
also produces facts and medical data from the world of science fiction and how it
applies in the real world as well as delving into the realms of sport, health fads,
nutrition, and healthy living through the food we eat.
The Ship’s Counsellor is part of the Medical Department and this important crew
member will assist crew on any personal issues that may arise involving their
membership in the chapter and their relationship with other members.
Medical Department sections are as follows -
Chief Medical Officer (CMO): responsible for updating members on
advances in medical science, and for helping to maintain the health and safety of
members at chapter events.
28
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Part of this role will be to establish and maintain a suitable first aid kit, and to
promote the learning of first aid by members. Health screenings and warnings may
also become available as staffing permits.
Health Promotion : responsible for advice on healthy lifestyle.
Part of this role will include advice on exercise, recipes, and dietary supplements.
Issues surrounding recreational drugs may also be explored.
Health in the Media : responsible for exploring fads – both healthy and
unhealthy – and the way health issues are reported.
This section could examine the positive and negative effects of the way these
issues are presented.
Sport and Recreation : responsible for advising members about sporting
activities, perhaps by examining a different sport each month and describing how
it is played, the object of the game, and the ways it enhances physical and
psychological health.
Staff
Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
Assistant Chief Medical Officer
Chief Nurse
Ship’s Counsellor
other crew as appointed
≈≈
29
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
OPERATIONS (Ops)
The Operations Department is responsible for the personnel records section of
the USS Southern Cross. It maintains secure information on all crew and ensures
that this information is available to others on a “need-to-know” basis.
Ops also maintains a register of Academy courses undertaken by members so that
they are available to Command Staff when promotions are being considered.
Operations is also a point of contact with all members and is used as a conduit for
access to other Department Chiefs.
Operations also provides a consultancy to Chief’s of Departments on personnel
matters including:
•
Membership of Starfleet
•
Membership of USS Southern Cross
•
Academy studies
•
Recruitment
•
Promotions (how to gain)
•
Disciplinary matters
•
Contact of members
•
Crew and Department complements
•
Crew Transfers
•
Crew
The Chief Operations Officer is also a member of the Promotions Committee
30
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
The Operation’s sections and their responsibilities are broken down as follows:
Chief Operations Officer (COO) Responsible for maintaining accurate member records; provides up-to-date roster
information; reminds members of renewal dates; keeps track of member’s
progress toward promotions, and is responsible for the overall running of the
Operations Department.
Assistant Chief Operations OfficerResponsible for assisting the Chief of Operations where needed.
Shakedown Operations Support OfficerResponsible for providing liaison and assistance to any shakedown chapter-intraining that may be attached to the USS Southern Cross to becoming a
commissioned chapter within STARFLEET.
The Officer or NCO holding this position reports directly to Chief of Operations.
Intelligence Officer –
This officer welcomes and assists new members when they come aboard. They
will also provide information on and assist members in the selection of
departmental assignment. They will also assist in the supply of:
Membership applications
ID cards & certificates
Certificates of membership
Brochures & flyers
Handbook
Recruiting materials
Award and promotion certificates
The Officer or NCO holding this position reports directly to Chief of Operations.
31
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Regional Operations Officer –
Primarily responsible for liaison with other Chapters within Region 11 and
monitoring chapters in other regions of the World, then reporting back on
anything interesting they may be doing.
The NCO or Officer holding this position reports directly to Chief of Operations.
≈≈
SCIENCE (Sci)
The Science Department operates to increase the interest and knowledge of
science for crew in the fields of real science and astronomy.
The Department is divided thus:
Chief Science Officer (CSO)
Assistant Chief Science Officer
Star Trek Sciences and Technology Officer: this position studies and reports
historical and recent (or projected) canon and non-canon Star Trek science and
technologies that is of interest to the USS Southern Cross crew and guests.
Requirements: OTS, SCE, an interest in all things science, as it pertains to Star
Trek.
Sci-Fi Sciences and Technology Officer: this position studies and reports
historical and recent (or projected) science and technologies as seen in the world
of science fiction that is of interest to the USS Southern Cross crew and guests.
Requirements: OTS, SCE, an interest in all things science, as it pertains to Science
Fiction.
32
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Australasian Sciences and Technology Officer: this position studies and
reports historical and recent (or projected) science and technologies that directly
affects the area of Earth known as Australia, New Zealand, and nearby areas that
is of interest to the USS Southern Cross crew and guests. Requirements: OTS,
SCE, an interest in all things science, as it pertains to Australasia and related
locales.
Terran Sciences and Technology Officer- this position studies and reports
historical and recent (or projected) science and technologies that directly affects
the other parts of Earth and the universe that is of interest to the USS Southern
Cross crew and guests. Requirements: OTS, SCE, an interest in all things science.
Each STATS Officer is responsible for focusing on their assigned area, but may
offer tidbits, articles, and information regarding any of the divisions within the
sciences alone or in collaboration with other STATS Officers. One of these
officers will also serve as Assistant Chief Science Officer (ACSO), and is
appointed at the discretion of the Chief Science Officer (from the Star
Trek, Austarlasia, Terran, and Sci-Fi, (STATS) Science Officer pool with approval
from the CO). The STATS Officers will be requested to submit at minimum
1 article a year for publication in the ScuttleButt and/or Communique through
coordination with the CSO.
Other Science Department Staff:
Science and Technology Officers: these positions contribute to all science areas
without concentration in one area. Requirement: OTS, an interest in all things
science.
33
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Science and Technology Crewmen: these positions contribute to all science
areas without concentration in one area. These positions are filled with noncommissioned crew. Requirement: an interest in all things science.
Each member of the Science Department staff is to offer tidbits, articles, and
information regarding any of the divisions within the sciences through
coordination with the CSO
≈≈
TACTICAL/SECURITY (Tac/Sec)
The Tactical/Security Department forms the basis of some of a starship’s most
important functions and Senior Operation’s Officers play a key role in Bridge
activity. They are responsible for al security aspects of the ship; formation of
armed support to the Marine contingent in areas of intruder alerts (repel boarders)
;assist with the battle and fire-support tactics when the vessel is placed in armed
conflict; plus they provide a range of important support functions throughout the
ship such as quartermaster control and crew discipline.
Tactical Department also provides important liaison with the Marine contingent
on all military matters
Crew positions are:
Chief Tactical/Security Officer (CTO)
Assistant Chief Officer
Tactical Officer - Provides information on uniforms and dress codes. Issues
dress code instructions to crew as received from Command. Assists crew with the
34
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
advice on procurement of uniforms and accessories.
Navigation Officer - Identifies and reports on travel and accommodation
arrangements and packages for local and/or international travel. Provides logistical
support for any local functions or conventions the chapter is involved with.
Master at Arms - responsible for seeing to the Command Officers needs
during meetings, conventions and conferences. This Officer will also be
responsible for welcoming members (and in particular new members) when faceto-face meetings are held including issuing name tapes to visitors and dignitaries if
required.
The NCO or Officer holding this position reports directly to Chief of Security
Flight Deck Officer (FDO) – Responsible for all flight operations, including
those craft attached to 377th Marine Unit. Major liaison with Marine detachment.
Keeps crew up to date with development of flight technology as designed or
released by Fleet.
Other crew as appointed
≈≈
SHIP’S SERVICES (Ser)
Ships Services provides the social heart of our ship and is equipped to provide all
crew with a wide variety of recreational activities as well as attend to a diverse
array of official shipboard functions.
Ships Services is also responsible for upholding the morale of the Southern Cross
crew by the use of many different resources
Charitable works are an integral part of STARFLEET’s Vision and to this end,
Ships Services Chief Officer liaises with the Second Officer when the USS Southern
35
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Cross is working with nominated organisations that are suitably aligned with our
own endeavours.
Ships Services provides important functions such as Ship’s Barber/Hair Stylists,
and Bar Staff for both crew recreational areas – The Lizard Lounge (the USS
Southern Cross’s main recreational facility) and the Stockade (a smaller bar servicing
the mid-deck section
The sections within Ship’s Services are:
Chief Officer in Charge (CSS)
Deputy Officer in Charge
Other crew as appointed
≈≈
36
Chapter
4
UNIFORMS & DRESS CODES
F
ictionally, the USS Southern Cross is depicted as being operationally
deployed in the period post- Dominion War (circa 2380) and as such, dress and
uniform codes should be applicable to that period.
This should not however dictate that any member is required to apply only the
dress code from that era, and members should feel free to wear any uniform from
any Star Trek period, provided the uniform meets the applicable dress codes of
both SFI and the USS Southern Cross.
(Please note: members of the SFMC are however required to apply strict dress
codes as set down by both SFMC and 11th Brigade regulations).
All queries or concerns over dress codes, uniforms, or rank and rank insignia,
should be addressed to the CO in the first instance.
37
UNIFORMS &
DRESS CODE
UNIFORMS
Fleet Uniform
As the USS Southern Cross is commissioned in the years post 2374, uniform style
will reflect that period. This should not however, preclude any chapter member
from selecting a uniform style of their choosing. The recommendations for
uniforms best suited to the period are as follows:
Duty uniform
Duty uniform
Duty uniform
Duty uniform
(Science, Medical)
(cadet)
(Science, Medical)
(cadet)
38
UNIFORMS &
DRESS CODE
Dress uniform
Dress uniform
Dress uniform
Dress uniform
(Admiralty)
(Captain)
(Officer)
(Enlisted personnel)
Marine Uniform
The USS Southern Cross is affiliated to the Starfleet Marine Corps and many of its
officers and crew are Marines. As the ship is currently operationally attached to
the Marine contingent of TACFLEET – dress, duty, and battle-dress wear is
advised for Marine crew members.
Uniform choices are as follows:
39
UNIFORMS & DRESS CODE
Class A Uniform: Monster Blacks
Class A Uniform: Insurrection Blacks
40
UNIFORMS &
DRESS CODE
Class A Uniform: Mess Whites
Class B Uniform: Duty Uniform
41
UNIFORMS &
DRESS CODE
Class C Uniform: Battle Dress Uniforms (BDU)
Any queries or questions on uniform dress codes, accruements etc, should be
addressed to either the Chief Security Officer or the CO.
42
UNIFORMS &
DRESS CODE
DIVISIONAL COLOURS CHART
(Fleet Uniform colour designations)
Command
Engineering, Operations,
Security, Communications
Science, Medical
(Note – Marine crew choosing to wear standard duty uniforms, will select a dicky that
will be in the colour of their designated MOS. For example, Infantry members will
have a black dicky;
43
UNIFORMS &
DRESS CODE
RANKS & INSIGNIA
STARFLEET
Ranks
SFMC Ranks
No Equivalent
Fleet Admiral (FADM)
Admiral (ADM)
General (GEN)
Vice Admiral (VADM)
Lieutenant General (LGN)
Rear Admiral (RADM)
Major General (MGN)
Commodore (COMM)
Brigadier General (BGN)
Fleet Captain (FCAPT)
Brigadier (BDR)
Captain (CAPT)
Colonel (COL)
Commander (CMDR)
Lieutenant Colonel (LTC)
Lieutenant Commander
(LTCDR)
Major (MAJ)
44
Lieutenant (LT)
Marine Captain (M
MCAPT)*
Lieutenant Junior Grade
(LJG)
First Lieutenant (1LT)
Ensign (ENS)
Second Lieutenant (2LT)
Master Chief Petty Officer of STARFLEET
(MCPO)
Sergeant Major of the SFMC
(SGM/SFMC)
Master Chief Petty Officer (MCPO)
Sergeant Major (SGM)
Senior Chief Petty Officer (SCPO)
First Sergeant (1SG)
Chief Petty Officer (CPO)
Gunnery Sergeant
Serge
(GSGT)
Petty Officer, First Class (PO1)
Staff Sergeant (SSGT)
Petty Officer, Second Class (PO2)
Sergeant
Serge
(SGT)
45
Petty Officer, Third Class (PO3)
Corporal (CPL)
NO Rank Insignia
Crewman
Lance Corporal (LCPL)
NO Rank Insignia
Crewman Apprentice
Private First Class (PFC)
NO Rank Insignia
Crewman Recruit
No Rank Insignia
Insign
Private (Private)
* - Marine Captain is occasionally confused with the fleet rank of Captain,
and some marines prefer MCAPT over MCPT.
46
Chapter
5
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
T
he organizational structure of the USS Southern Cross reflects a simplistic
management scheme that flows through each of the operational departments.
This structure reflects a management tier that applies in real-life military terms and
gives a clear path to the responsibilities of crew within each department.
This chart should be viewed in conjunction with the Department responsibilities
chapter listed previously.
47
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
Organisational Chart
Commanding
Officer (CO)
OIC
Executive
Officer (XO)
377th MSG
Second
Officer (SO)
Cadet Corps
Commander
Cadets
Chief
Comms
Officer
(CCO)
Chief
Engineering
Officer
Comms Crew
Engineering
Crew
(CEO)
Chief
Medical
Offcier
(CMO)
Medical Crew
48
Chief
Chief
Operations
Officer
Science
offcier
Chief of
Ship's
Services
Chief
Tac/Security
Offcier
(COO)
(CSO)
(CSS)
(CTO)
Operations
Crew
Science Crew
Service Crew
Security Crew
49
Chapter
6
DEMOCRATIC PROCESSES
T
he USS Southern Cross operates under democratic terms and as such the
term of office for the Commanding Officer will be reviewed from time to time,
dependent on the needs and wishes of the ship’s members.
This is not to say that however that the CO has a limitation to the period of his or
her term but that should the members wish to review this appointment, there is
facility to cover this with a bi-annual election process.
This process is explained in this chapter.
DEMICRATIC PROCESSES
CO ELECTION PROCESS
Every two years from appointment (ships commissioning date in first instance), a
general crew election may be held for the position of Commanding Officer,
should members wish to proceed. Only "Active" crewmembers may vote in the
election. The Senior Staff shall appoint an election coordinator (chosen by a
simple majority of the Senior Staff). The current CO must receive a majority of
the votes to remain in office. If the current Commanding Officer is the only
candidate, a simple Vote of Confidence shall be held. A Commanding officer may
serve an unlimited number of consecutive or non-consecutive terms. The elected
CO shall assume command for the following calendar year starting on January 1st.
The Election Timetable is as follows:
Nov. 1 -15
Nov. 16 – 30
Dec. 1 - 10
Dec. 15 – 31
Nominations for CO accepted by the Election Coordinator,
who verifies eligibility.
Eligible candidates conduct debates via the USS Southern
Cross group bulletin board (Yahoo Groups pages).
Elections held. Election Coordinator verifies validity of
each ballot. Coordinator tallies results, and reports results
no later than December 12.
Turnover from old CO to new CO. Change of Command
form submitted.
In the event that the CO is unable to complete their term for the calendar year,
the Executive Officer (XO) shall assume the duties as Commanding Officer for
the remainder of the term
51
Chapter
7
STARFLEET MARINES DETACHMENT
A
s a Starfleet Marine Corps affiliated ship, the USS Southern Cross operates
100% of the time as a military vessel.
In her role forming part of a “Ready Response Task Force” the ‘Cross is fully
geared to provide a military support role to whatever task or assignment she is
posted.
As such, part of her permanent complement, is the 377th Marine Strike Group – a
mixed role, Infantry-based company that is supported by Aerospace wings, Special
Operations teams, Combat Engineers, Medical, and Support units.
As the 377th is a specialized and comprehensive unit, full details on them can be
found elsewhere (refer the 377th MSG section on the USS Southern Cross website)
52
Acknowledgements
This manual has been pieced together using some of the processes adopted by other
ot
SFI chapters and policies and principles that are considered unique to the USS Southern
Cross.
The material depicted is representative of not only the policies set down by
STARFLEET International, but also from the guidelines established by the original
origina
founders of the chapter, and subsequent input from members.
Processes and policies listed may be adapted, altered or adjusted from time to time, as
needs dictate.
All questions, comments or queries relating to this manual should be directed to the
Commanding
ding Officer of the USS Southern Cross
This manual has been constructed by
by:
53