Bush emphasizes safe recreational boating in edict

MIKE WHITEHEAD

Ahoy.

I love that this week is designated as National Safe Boating Week,

and it became only better when I received a message from my contact

on Capitol Hill that our President took notice how important boating

is in our country:

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“A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

for National Safe Boating Week, 2005.

Recreational boating has grown into one of our Nation’s most

popular pastimes, and as the summer approaches, millions of Americans

will enjoy our country’s beautiful waters. During National Safe

Boating Week, we highlight our nation’s commitment to making

recreational boating safer.

The number of boating fatalities has decreased over the last

decade. By promoting the use of appropriate safety measures, we can

save more lives and further reduce the number of injuries caused by

boating accidents. The U.S. Coast Guard and others recommend four

guidelines for safe boating: Wear properly fitted life jackets; get

vessels checked for safety; never boat under the influence of alcohol

or drugs; and get proper training about the safe operation of boats.

By adhering to these simple suggestions, boaters can keep themselves

and others safe as they enjoy our nation’s waterways.

In recognition of the importance of safe boating practices, the

Congress, by joint resolution approved June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 131),

as amended, has authorized and requested the president to proclaim

annually the seven-day period prior to Memorial Day weekend as

“National Safe Boating Week.”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States

of America, do hereby proclaim May 21 through May 27, 2005, as

National Safe Boating Week. I encourage the Governors of the 50

States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and officials of other

areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to join in

observing this week. I also urge all Americans to learn more about

safe boating practices, wear life jackets, take advantage of boating

safety programs throughout the year, and always engage in proper and

responsible conduct while on the water.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth

day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the

Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and

twenty ninth.

GEORGE W. BUSH”

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Thank you, President Bush. Boating is the No. 1 recreational

family activity, yet it is probably undervalued in the country. I

think that’s mainly due to the lack of a boating media campaign and

the fact that most waterfront communities fail to recognize the

positive economic impacts of boating. The communities that are waking

up are reaping the benefits, while others are losing the proverbial

goose that laid the golden egg.

My tip of the week is for you -- the boater -- to let the Newport

Beach City Council and the Newport Beach Harbor Commission know how

important boating is, as expressed by the president. You need to

specify that water access and boating amenities are of the utmost

importance in Newport Harbor.

I am happy and sad that Newport Beach Mayor Steve Bromberg has

been appointed an Orange County Superior Court judge. Of course, I am

very happy for Steve’s appointment to the bench. However, I am very

sad he is leaving politics, as Steve has been good for boating and

the harbor with his fair judgment on issues.

Finally, Dave Beek hit the nail on the head with his letter to the

editor, regarding the lack of guest slips in Newport Harbor, while

the city owns more than a dozen public docks including the Rhine

Wharf.

Once again, I pose the question still unanswered by anyone --

Where can I dock a 50-foot yacht in Newport at a public dock for an

hour or so? We have public parking for automobiles on the streets,

but zero docking for yachts in the harbor. Marinapark is the perfect

beginning to plot the course for our harbor.

Tune in to the No. 1 boating talk radio show in the nation, “Capt.

Mike Whitehead’s Boathouse Radio Show.” It airs every Saturday from

noon to 1 p.m. on KCBQ-AM (1170). You can join me, Chandler Bell and

Eric Hovland by calling the listener line at (888) 344-1170.

Safe voyages.

* MIKE WHITEHEAD is the Pilot’s boating and harbor columnist. Send

him your harbor and marine-related thoughts and story suggestions by

e-mail to [email protected] or visit https://www.boathousetv.com.