Shuffling off to Buffalo Sea-Star Repositioning Cruise Friday, September 15th found us making our way past Buffalo (and through our first lock) to North Tonawanda, the west entrance to the Erie canal, in search of the U.S. customs video phone. We stopped at a gas dock to ask directions of a fellow there who recognized the Canadian Sail and Power Squadron logo on Barry's shirt and insisted on driving us to the phone, as he was also a CPS member. The customs officer checked our passports and issued us a 12 month cruising permit, which was faxed to the marina where we had our de-masting done. Barry had applied and paid for a boat decal on line, which was required as we are over 30 feet. No questions were asked regarding alcohol, meat, vegetables or fruit on board. Our worries were in vain.