About 3000 people attended the two day North Coast Harbor Boating and Fishing Fest held in celebration of the summer water season at Voinovich Park last weekend.
Ken Gray, Chairman of the Lake Erie Safe Boating Council, said that the majority of people came despite the cool brisk air more suited to autumn. The big draw was the fleet of three power boats, two sailboats, a fishing boat and a 48 foot paddle driven dragon boat. The owners and captains of the vessels volunteered their boats and skills to provide free rides to the public.
According to Gray, “The purpose of the festival is structured towards kids.” Around 900 children attended the festival on Saturday and Sunday. The festival focused on safe boating practices and safety on the water in general.
Gray added, “We want to give them a sense of the water that ‘This is neat!'”
Booths touting safety tips and interesting information on Lake Erie’s natural habitat were set up under a large white tent on the site. Children were given a chance to win fishing tackle gear in a raffle draw. Outside the tent, magician Brad Schreiber, better known as The Great Brad, entertained the audience with tricks while Capt’n Wilie, also known as Bill Morley Jr., shared stories and lessons from the deep.
Of course, the most exciting activities happened on the water. Under the helm of Captain Chad Grubb, the Journey, a 65 foot gaff rigged, two masted schooner, offered free rides. Wayne Bratton captained the head boat Holiday, and took veteran and novice fishers out to try their luck at nabbing some big mouth bass.
Bob Ivancic’s Time Machine, the Boot N Scoot, and the Riverfront Yacht boat were some of the power boats included in the festival.
The water safety festival was sponsored by members of the Greater Cleveland Safety Council and included volunteers from the Greater Cleveland Boating Association.
