On The Cover May 2024

We never tire of reminding boaters to wear their life jackets, ideally the entire time they are out on the water. PFDs are no longer bulky, unattractive, and ill-fitting. Now they are comfortable, come in many styles, even colors, and some of the kid's jackets are nothing short of "cute and fun to wear".

If you are new to life-jacket shopping, check with the Coast Guard or its Auxiliary, Arizona Game & Fish Department, and the National Safe Boating Council. Another good resource are the members of the Lake Pleasant Sailing Club.

Two of the best resources locally to advise you are our boating co-editors: Ed and Debbie Huntsman. Information about Ed is at (https://www.preventdrownings.org/about-us/board-members/board-member-ed-huntsman); his e-mail is Edward. L. Huntsman@uscg. mil. Debbie is past president of the Women' Sailing Association.

And, if you're not a water recreationist, you can enjoy two of many Arizona destinations this summer: the Petrified Forest and of course the incredible Grand Canyon.

So, "if by land or by sea", safety is the key! Thoroughly, safely, enjoy your summer.

PORTS

BOATING - Waste Not

DOWNSTREAM - Let's Do May

TACKLE & TARGET - Finley's Favorite

WESTERN WILDLIFE - Be Bear Aware

Don't Miss These

Brush Up On Safety - National Safe Boating Week is May 18-24.

Douse It - Maricopa County Parks set fire ban.

Protect Yourself And A Bear - AZGFD offers essential tips for avoiding conflicts.

Important Dates

Mother's Day: May 12

Flag Day: June 14

Father's Day: June 16

Memorial Day: May 27