Re: [Paddlewise] Kayak Instructor Certification in Massachusetts

On Wed, Dec 2, 2009 at 7:10 AM, Paul Sanford <psanford_at_americancanoe.org>wrote:

> Greetings, Paddlewise subscribers. My name is Paul Sanford. I am a
> Paddlewise digest subscriber, and I am also the Director of Stewardship
> and Public Policy for the American Canoe Association (ACA).
>
> Well that was nice of Paul Sanford to include Paddlewise; thanks, Paul. :)

I couldn't find much to argue with in his response. Paul might also talk to
them about unreasonable state regulations requiring night navigational
lights that are also in conflict with USCG Rules. I can't recall which
states have begun requiring "all-around" white lights but at least one in
the northeastern USA does (on non-Federal waters).

Laws regulating common sense are often problematic. Even good advice about
common sense can be problematic.  One person's idea of safety is another
person's idea of "overdoing it". I remember landing on a log-strewn beach in
high winds while a local lady watched me. Once my kayak was out of reach of
the logs and waves I turned and said "hello" to her and made some sarcastic
comment about it being a "fine day for a paddle". She just looked at me and
said, "no one should be out kayaking on a day like this."

I just hope she doesn't get elected to the state legislature.


Craig Jungers
Moses Lake, WA
www.nwkayaking.net
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