Suzanne Marino
VENTNOR The Nights in Ventnor "Go Green" Boat Parade paddles off 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 at Ski Beach, North Dorset Avenue at the bay. Raindate is Sunday, Aug. 4.
The boat parade uses no fossil fuels as watercraft make their way through the inland waterway, ending at the Doc Holland Boathouse in Ventnor Heights. The parade allows kayaks, rowboats, standup boards, inflatables and anything that floats and is powered by "green energy."
The parade is a fun and inexpensive way for family and friends to enjoy one of Ventnor's greatest assets the backbay while reducing the area's carbon footprint.
Rowers and paddlers are encouraged to dress in costumes to promote environmental, social or local interests, or remind spectators they need to care for the region's sensitive marine environment. Participants are asked to properly dispose of decorations that may be harmful to the environment, such as helium balloons.
About 70 "green team" volunteers help the parade go off without a hitch.
The parade leaves from Ski Beach on Dorset Avenue and travels through the inland waterway to the Viking Rowing Club's Doc Holland boathouse where revelers can enjoy a barbecue, music and receive prizes donated by local vendors.
The judging stand is located at Derby Hall just south of the Dorset Avenue bridge.
Homeowners who live along the waterway are encouraged to decorate their porches and decks and support the rowers as they paddle by. The best public viewing stations are on the Dorset Avenue bridge and at the Ventnor City Public Works Building on Winchester and Cornwall avenues.
Participants can save on the cost of the entry fee by registering by the close of business Wednesday, July 31. Registration in advance is $20 per person, $15 per person for groups of three or more; $25 per person on parade day. Children 14 and younger are free when accompanied by an adult. Check-in starts at 3 p.m.
The U.S. Coast Guard requires children under 14 to wear a life jacket. They are strongly recommended for everyone.
Registration forms and information are available at the Ventnor Heights Auto & Marine, 118 N. Dorset Ave., and AAAA Bike Shop, 5300 Ventnor Ave. Forms can also be downloaded from the NightsInVentnor.info
http://www.downbeach.com/2018/08/06/nights-in-ventnor-go-green-parade-remains-true-to-its-roots/
