Lake Huron Rally and Official Opening GLCC Headquarters
Under blue skies and perfect boating conditions, the Lake Huron Rally and official opening of the new headquarters for the GLCC was the place to be in mid August.
Port Huron’s Acheson Ventures, Desmond Marine and River Street Marina had the welcome mat out as more than forty boats and two hundred participants arrived for the weekend of August 15-17. While most came by boat from both sides of the border, three RV’s occupied a corner of the marina parking lot and a large contingent of GLCC members made the trek by car, staying in local hotels.
Saturday saw a full day of activities, including the Ship’s Store, staffed by Bobbe Miller and her volunteers. The day started early with coffee and muffins on the dock followed by the official flag ceremony by the Silent Drill Team from the United States Coast Guard at the impressive Great Lakes Maritime Centre. The Maritime Centre, located at the confluence of the Black and St. Clair Rivers is a popular attraction in Port Huron. In addition to exhibits of maritime history on the Great Lakes, volunteers are on hand to describe the features and identification marks of the various lines and their vessels
After an opportunity for participants to “dress” their ships, an impressive boat parade, led by Lady J headed out the Black River, north under the Bluewater Bridge and out past the Port Huron lighthouse at Fort Gratiot. The fleet never looked better in the brilliant sunshine and sparkling blue water. Coming back in from the lake, the procession wound its way south to the Bean Dock where the USCG cutter Hollyhock, the retired USCG cutter Bramble, the US Navy Ship Gray Fox and the schooner Highlander Sea were docked, dressed and open for the many visitors who took the opportunity to tour.
As pictures demonstrate, the highlight of the weekend was, the official opening of the Club’s new office. Centrally located on the shore of the Black River, the offices are very functional, including a large meeting room, adequate storage for the Club’s material and offices for both staff and volunteers. Adjacent parking and proximity to the docks and marinas combine to make this new location a perfect one for the Club.
Commodore Richlak, was joined by the Past Commodores and special guests at the podium to cut the ribbon to mark the event. To show our deep appreciation for all his work and support of the Club in the past, and in facilitating the move to Port Huron, Fleet Captain and Past Commodore, Jim Acheson was asked to do the formal ribbon cutting. A much deserved standing ovation greeted him as he arrived at the podium “I am proud of my association with the Great Lakes Cruising Club and I wish the Club many years of success in this new location”, he commented, after cutting the ribbon.