|
Speed Bumps on the Water, a song by Jon Cons
In our May, 2018 issue, we ran a poem by Jon Cons, a long-time ocean kayaker, former ACA Coastal Kayaking Instructor, songwriter, and charter member of the Maine Island Trail Assn. called "Speed Bumps on the Water." Jon has incorporated the song into his new album and has generously agreed to share the song with us.
Jon describes the genesis of his song: "I was at a songwriters' open mike, when one performer sang a song about his small sailboat, and I thought: 'I have been sea kayaking for more than 35 years. Why don't I write a song about that?'
"And then, a little over a year ago, I heard a British paddler mention that, where she comes from, sea kayakers are viewed as 'a bunch of old guys in floppy hats getting back to nature.' Worse yet, the lobstermen here in Maine describe kayaks as 'speed bumps on the water,' a phrase that scans with the title of a traditional fiddle tune called 'Midnight On The Water.' And so, this song came about."
Here are the words, so you can sing along. The mp3 file is number nine on the web page:
Speed Bumps on the Water
|
We're just old guys, wearing floppy hats,
The young surfers say,
But we're getting back to nature,
In our old-fashioned ways,
With our 18-foot long boats,
In the waves we will play,
Now we're speed bumps on the water,
So the lobstermen say.
Now when I was a bit younger,
I could roll on both sides,
I could rescue any swimmer,
I would play the rip tides,
Every weekend would find me.
On the gulf or the bay,
Now I'm a speed bump on the water,
Like lobstermen say.
With our boats fully loaded,
We could stay out for weeks,
We knew first aid and navigation,
We could fix cracks and leaks,
We saw glaciers in Alaska,
And whales off Gaspe'
Now we're speed bumps on the water,
Like the lobstermen say.
|
|
Now the ocean's so big,
And a kayak's so small,
Some paddlers we knew of,
Never came back at all.
Some got fat, some quit boating,
Some just faded away,
Rest are speed bumps on the water,
So the power boaters say.
Well, the young folks take classes,
So they can get 'certified,'
They paddle calm water,
Wearing helmets with pride,
And they laugh at the old sea gypsies,
Who once showed the way,
Now we're speed bumps on the water,
So the lobstermen say.
When my last trip is over,
Put me back in my boat,
Fill the hatches with kerosene,
And light me afloat,
When the young folks ask "what's burning?"
Shrug your shoulders and say,
Just a speed bump on the water,
Paddling on his last day.
Just a speed bump on the water,
Paddling on his last day.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At 74, Gail Ferris Isn't Slowing Down
Gail is a long time ACK contributor, telling about her adventures from Connecticut to Greenland. Gail writes us, "I am buying a new Long Haul Mark 1 so that I can explore Sitka Alaska shores. The video link shows my first Long Haul. My purpose in paddling is to explore extensively in comfort for hours taking pictures and videos. There is no kayak so seaworthy and comfortable as the Long Haul. I have been doing exploration kayaking since 1989. Now I am 74 and can just paddle right where I live here in Sitka on the Pacific as I wish."
2003 Paddling from Upernavik via Prøven Orpit Aappilattoq
|
|
|
|
|
Coast Guard Rescues Two Kayakers on Tybee Island
CHARLESTON, S.C., Nov. 16. 2019 - The Coast Guard rescued two kayakers after they became stranded on Tybee Island, Georgia.
At approximately 6 p.m., a Coast Guard Air Station Savannah MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew landed on Tybee Island beach and located the kayakers. The Dolphin crew embarked the kayakers and transported them to Hunter Army Airport.
At 4:25 p.m, Coast Guard Sector Charleston watchstanders were notified by the Tybee Island Fire Department of two kaykers who camped overnight on Tybee Island and became stranded due to bad weather.
No injuries were reported.
|
|
|
|
|
|
CBD Says Bring Down the Dams to Save Salmon, Orcas
Salmon are the cultural lifeblood of the Pacific Northwest - supporting jobs, communities, and the natural world. Their unique life cycle brings nutrients from the ocean back to high mountain streams and forests. And they're a critical food source for more than 100 species, including endangered West Coast orcas, which are dying out due to lack of prey.
The Columbia and Snake rivers were once the greatest salmon rivers in the world. But now more than half of their salmon habitat is permanently blocked by dams.
The Center for Biological Diversity believes it is time to remove the four lower Snake River dams to save the salmon and orcas before it's too late.
Federal, tribal, and independent scientists concluded years ago that removing these four dams is the best way to restore the area's wild salmon. These dams kill up to 50% of juvenile salmon before they even reach the ocean, and are roadblocks to adult salmon returning home to spawn, but the federal government is proposing to keep the status quo and keep the dams - putting these species and the ecosystem at risk.
To join in this effort, visit the CBD website.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Coast Guard Rescues Two Kayakers off Ocean Park Beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Dec. 1, 2019 - The crew of a Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen MH-65 Dolphin helicopter rescued two kayakers Sunday morning, in waters just of Ocean Park Beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The two men rescued were reported to be tourists, who used a smart watch to relay a distress call to 911, and reported being in the water for several hours after both kayaks began taking on water and ended up sinking.
Watchstanders at Sector San Juan diverted a Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew to the scene, while a Puerto Rico Joint Forces of Rapid Action helicopter also responded. The two kayakers were initially spotted by the crew of the Police helicopter, who vectored in the Coast Guard aircraft to their location.
The Coast Guard aircrew lowered their rescue swimmer and deployed the aircraft rescue basket that was utilized to hoist and recover both men from the water. The men were transported to the Isla Grande Airport in San Juan, where they were received by Emergency Medical Service personnel, and were released to friends after declining further medical assistance.
"The kayakers are very fortunate to have survived," said Petty Officer 3rd Class Austin Hornbruch, an Air Station Borinquen aviation survival technician. "The survivors were able to use a smart watch to communicate with 911 and Coast Guard watchstanders. After their kayaks sank, they were treading water in unfavorable sea conditions due to not having lifejackets. We commend our Sector San Juan watchstanders and the Puerto Rico Police aircrew, who did an excellent job assisting our crew with the rescue effort."
|
|
|
|
|
|
CBD Sues to Take On Oil and Gas Threat to Cook Inlet's Belugas
New government data reveal a dramatic decline in Alaska's endangered belugas, down to just 279 animals in Cook Inlet. That's why the Center for Biological Diversity and allies have notified the Trump administration that they intend to sue over its approval of oil exploration in the white whales' home.
The feds relied on higher beluga numbers in 2019 when giving the green light to Hilcorp Alaska to harm these whales (and other animals) as it expands oil and gas operations in the inlet. The CBD's notice says the company must consider the new, smaller numbers and much steeper rate of decline.
"The Trump administration needs to stop handing out permits for the fossil fuel industry to blast, pile drive, and drill in Cook Inlet," said the CBD's Julie Teel Simmonds. "These animals are hanging on by a thread. We have to protect them and give them some peace."
|
|
|
|
|
SealLine Announces New Submersible Duffel
SealLine Pro Zip Duffel - "A durable and waterproof duffel to keep essentials dry and protected at camp, the Pro Zip Duffel features heavy-duty PVC-free waterproof materials, RF welded seams, corrosion-resistant hardware and a tough YKK AquaSEAL® waterproof zipper. Removable shoulder straps and four side-haul handles make it comfortable and easy for handling and latching to a boat or vehicle. The Pro Zip Duffel is USA-made with heavy-duty PVC-free waterproof materials and welded seams.
With lasting durability, the Pro Zip also comes at a much more approachable price point, compared to other bags currently on the market.
MSRP: $199.95 for the 40-liter, $249.95 for the 70-liter, $299.95 for the 100-liter.
|
|
|
|
|
Chouinard Adds a Wood-burning Stove
To its Super-Light Untethered Camping Kit
The stove, which was to appear as part of the Untethered Kit in the spring or early summer of this year, has been put on hold withe the rest of Patagonia's operations, as explained in this announcement from CEO and President Rose Marcario:
"The COVID-19 pandemic is taking over communities around the world at an astounding rate. While testing availability in the United States is still limited, and so the extent of the virus' spread is largely unknown, we want to do our part to protect everyone. The safety of our employees and our communities is our top priority, and we are taking responsible precautions to help stop the spread of this scary virus where we can.
"We have temporarily closed our stores, offices and other operations in the United States. We have also closed stores and offices in Argentina, Chile, Japan and across Europe. Our Australia and South Korea operations will continue on a modified work schedule in stores and offices, with some stores closed depending on location. Employees who can work from home will do so. All Patagonia employees will continue to receive their regular pay during these closures.
"We are working to find solutions to protect the safety of our warehouse team, and we hope to have an update about online orders in the coming weeks. We apologize that over the next two weeks there will be delays on orders and customer-service requests. We ask for your understanding and patience. We will continue to keep you updated with new developments.
"We encourage our friends everywhere to take the extra precautions necessary to safeguard their health and that of others. It's everyone's responsibility to help stop the spread of this virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and your local health authorities are the best resources for updates and answers to questions.
"Over the years, as our Patagonia community has been faced with challenges, I have always been inspired by how we emerge stronger and with an even deeper sense of purpose. We will persevere through this challenge, too.
"Thank you for your business, loyalty and patience."
|
|
|
|
|
Monk Seal Safely Transferred by USCG From Oahu
To seal rehabilitation facility on Hawaii Island
An adult female monk seal, nicknamed Pohaku, was discovered ill on the beach. The seal was taken to the Marine Mammal Center's Ke Kai Ola monk seal rehabilitation facility in Konma on Hawaii Island for the long-term care she needs.
The seal was rescued by federal wildlife officials in January near Ko Olina, Oahu. She had been diagnosed and is being treated for toxoplasmosis, a disease that results from infection with Toxoplasma gondii, one of the world's most common parasites.
Personnel from the Coast Guard 14th District, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and The Marine Mammal Center loaded her into the HC-130 fixed wing helicopter to transport from Oahu to Kona on February 19.
"Protecting the Hawaiian monk seal population provides the Coast Guard a unique opportunity to play a part in the recovery of this critically endangered species," said Maile Norman, marine resource specialist, Coast Guard 14th District.
"The Coast Guard [helps] to assist NOAA in seal transports like this when Coast Guard resources are available," said David Schofield, NOAA Regional Marine Mammal Response Coordinator.
"We're proud to support patients like Pohaku at our facility in Kona," said Megan McGinnis, the MMC's Animal Care Program Manager at Ke Kai Ola. "We are grateful to the U.S. Coast Guard, who reacted quickly and helped [us] give this animal a second chance at life."
The most recent annual count shows that the Hawaiian monk seal has increased in numbers by three percent annually for the past three years. The population is now estimated to be around 1,400 seals - about 1,100 in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and 300 in the main Hawaiian Islands.
|
|
|
|
|
Coast Guard Rescues Two Kayakers Near Ketchikan, Alaska
JUNEAU, Alaska, March 23, 2020 - The Coast Guard rescued two kayakers in Ketchikan after one of their kayaks sustained damage and took on water.
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Bailey Barco arrived on scene and recovered both kayakers along with their kayaks and brought them to their launch site at Mountain Point in Ketchikan. No injuries or medical concerns were reported.
Watchstanders in the Coast Guard Sector Juneau command center in Juneau received initial notification from a Metlakatla fish and wildlife officer at about 2:40 p.m. reporting the two female kayakers stranded on Race Point in Nichols Passage.
The Coast Guard issued an urgent marine information broadcast to alert mariners in the area and launched a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew with a skiff from Station Ketchikan.
The crew of Bailey Barco was in the vicinity of the kayakers, arrived on scene first, and rendered assistance.
|
|
|
|
|
Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership to Close Through June 14
Message from Bo Hoppin, Executive Director
"After careful consideration during this unprecedented situation, the Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership's Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to close all on-island programming from the start of the season through June 14, 2020. Our own mission and approach to education emphasizes the use of science to inform decision-making. The science for the coronavirus pandemic clearly supports delaying the start of our 2020 season. This is the prudent choice for the safety of our participants, staff, and the greater community.
"This news is very sad for the broad range of people served by Hurricane, especially those students for whom their school's spring 2020 trip may be their sole opportunity to visit Hurricane. Making island programming accessible, invigorating, and inspirational from May through October is the foundation of our work. Many of our supporters have their own life-changing Hurricane stories, which are at the heart of why they have worked so hard to ensure the island is available for the next generation of emerging leaders. We regret denying anyone a Hurricane Island experience.
"I find great comfort in knowing the Hurricane staff are embracing opportunity in this coronavirus challenge. We know the immersive island experience and the skill of our educators inspires program participants to ask rich questions. Our educators and scientists are now tracking new questions: Will we notice an appreciable decline in worldwide carbon emissions with this slowdown? Are there lessons from a slowdown that contribute to sustainable solutions in the future? What do patterns of this virus spreading tell us about social mobility? What are the strategies, skills, and norms our society needs to put in place to address a global crisis? What is Hurricane's role in answering these questions?
"We challenge our students and emerging researchers to take the inquiry process they learn on Hurricane home to then solve meaningful local problems. Our charge is to ensure Hurricane sustains this work without visitors to the island for the near term. Over the coming weeks we promise to demonstrate the important work of Hurricane is alive and well. Please follow us on social media, our website, and through our email outreach to experience Hurricane magic this spring.
"Hurricane, as the site of our place-based programming, will be on a brief hiatus. It is our hope that through this challenge, the lessons of Hurricane will magnify and compound to prepare leaders who are ready to solve important and difficult questions for their home communities. We are eager to continue our work."
|
|
|
|
|
COVID-19 and the NFCT: What you need to know
"As the snow and ice continues to melt across the Northern Forest, many of you are reaching out with questions about paddling on the Northern Forest Canoe Trail in light of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
"The team at NFCT continues to track the best public health guidance for being outside during the coronavirus pandemic. We've created a page on our website to track advice, tips, best practices and recommendations if you plan on paddling in the coming weeks.
Getting outside and active, even for short periods, is good for your mental and physical health. That said, we're all in this together, and we must be responsible - avoid crowds, stay close to home, be prepared and be respectful of other people. Additionally, it's imperative that we all recreate within our limits; this is not the time to injure yourself and put additional strain on our healthcare facilities."
|
|
|
|
|
Old Quarry Ocean Adventures Up For Sale
After 22 seasons, Bill Baker of old Quarry Ocean Adventures outside Stonington, Maine has put his 8.5-acre campground up for sale for $2.5 million. He has retired and is moving to Greenville, Maine.
He plans to keep it operating this summer but is letting someone else do the work.
"I've been working seven days a week for 22 years. I'm not doing it anymore," Baker told the local newspaper Island Ad-Vantages.
Baker has expressed interest in having a land trust take over the property to keep the 1,000-foot shorefront open to the public.
Currently, three parties are interested in the property and would probably keep the campground the way it is.
"It is very upsetting to think that such a very special place may be lost to us," says Rufus Zogbaum, a long-time ACK subscriber and one of many who wrote letters of support for Baker for a meeting last October to discuss Old Quarry's future.
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
