2008 Blessing of the Fleet
Feedback from participants is that the is a good event. We are pleased to have worked through a number of technical difficulties such as the sound system and broadcasting on channel 71 so vessel operators can hear the service. The poor spring weather prevented a number of people from getting out early on the water.
10 vessels took part including Port Authority, CAPE CHALLION, GRIFFON RHIB, Loon Magic (Coast Guard Auxiliary) and 60 people were on land. Mark Benz and Michael Gravelle attended. The Blessing of the Fleet is made possible by the help of a number of people, and it is appreciated:
The Officiants: Rev’d Ed Swayze, Rev’d Matthew Diegel and Rev’d Neil Otke.
The volunteers who worked to make the Blessing of the Fleet a success, particularly Barb & Craig Williams;
LCdr Les Newman, master of ceremonies;
Guy Jarvis, Harbourmaster, Thunder Bay Port Authority;
The City of Thunder Bay for the use of Marina Park;
The MacGillivary Pipe Band www.members.shaw.ca/macgillivraypipeband;
LCdr John Bell, Commanding Officer HMCS GRIFFON for GRIFFON’S assistance; and
Rollason Flowers Limited for the donation of flowers.