2007 Boat Parade: No Rain? No Parade.

Posted by Bob Gernert on October 26, 2007 at 2:31 pm

Alas, the drought has stranded our popular Christmas Boat Parade on a proverbial “sandbar.” As of this writing, (10-26-07) the level of the Chain of Lakes stands at 129.3 feet above sea level. Minimum desirable level for the Chain is 129.5 feet above sea level and though the Chain’s level was slightly above that last year, the parade encountered significant canal issues in the Howard/Cannon canal. We also have learned from past experience that low levels mean low numbers of participating boats as in 2002 we had seven boats in the parade. The canals must be passable to have an adequate flotilla.

After consultations with the Lake Region Lakes Management District, City Lakes Management Department and Polk County Sheriff’s Department the decision has been made that the Chain of Lakes Christmas Boat Parade will be cancelled for 2007. Should Mother Nature elect to shower us with profound precipitation during November … this decision will be reconsidered Thanksgiving weekend.

In the interest of those who plan holiday parties in conjunction with the parade, we felt it necessary to make this announcement at this time.

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REMARKS   4 Total remarks on this post. Add your own remarks below

  • October 28th, 2007 at 12:08 pm
    Bob & Amy Lanpher

    Wouldn’t it be fun to decorate the boats on trailers complete with Christmas lights and tow them through downtown and throw candy to the kids? Maybe it could be coordinated in conjunction with Carols on the Park. Why let the drought “rain” on our parade? The Christmas boat parade is one of the most fun activities in Winter Haven!

  • October 28th, 2007 at 5:34 pm
    Dave

    That’s not a bad idea. I think I could get fellow members of the Winter Haven Nautical Club to participate.

  • October 30th, 2007 at 5:17 am
    Jeff & Susan Ahl

    Boat parade on trailers is a great idea. We are all for supporting this festive holiday activity!

  • October 31st, 2007 at 8:18 am
    Billy Rerucha

    I think a Christmas parade on trailers is an AWESOME idea !! We can’t let a little shallow water ruin our tradition. I would definately be interested in taking part as well as calling all my customers and telling them to join in the fun with their own boats.
    I say we make Bob Lanpher the Grand Santa of the Christmas Parade and being Florida he should wear a speedo!! :>)

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