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Chuck and Debbie did it again
with another wild and wonderful 4th of July Cookout and kayaking to the
Fireworks. As usual, it was an almost impossible task to get every one
gathered together to take a group picture after the Cookout, a kayak safety
briefing and Mark and friends reading of the Declaration of Independence.
People were now thinking about getting ready to go kayaking. Never the less
we managed to get about 50 people grouped together long enough to take a
group picture. As every year there was an overly generous supply of food and
drinks for all. Chuck had Rob G. helping him again and they kept an endless
supply of delicious eats on the food table. Chuck had his usual slushy
drinks and a mouth-watering beer on tap. It was an afternoon delight for
all.
Chuck had ordered good kayaking weather and it didn’t look like rain. Also
it was going to be low tide so the kayakers would be able to get out of the
kayaks and socialize during the fireworks.
Inputs from Chuck: The paddle to the fireworks
and back went off without a hitch. Thanks to all the help from all the
participants we were on the water by 7:30 which I believe was in record
time. The tide was so low we did not have to tie our boats to keep them on
the sandbar simply lay in them and watch the fireworks. The fireworks were
spectacular as always. A group of 10 or so kayaks paddled up to the safety
area for a thrilling show. We rafted together with the outside boats keeping
us orientated to the fireworks, no small task with 10 tandems, thanks
Michelle Linda, Peggy and Dylan! The trip back was also uneventful with all
boats and equipment returned loaded and everyone headed home by 11 also a
record. We had a nice time swimming and eating after arriving home. We had a
good group to help wash the equipment and sort it for each store. Thanks to
all who came and all who helped.
I do need to send a special thank you to our sponsors, Bill Jacksons, Osprey
Bay, and Sweetwater Kayaks for donating the use of their boats and
equipment. Also a special Thank you to Rob who made it fun for Debbie,
arrived early to help set up, cooked for all of us, helped keep everyone
safe during the paddle, and stayed helping till the last boat, PFD, and
Paddle were washed and sorted. Thank you Rob! Oh by the way nice swim suit
while swimming in the pool Rob!
Lastly Thanks to all who came we raised at least $1500.00 maybe more by the
time any online donations are tabulated for the Guide Dog Foundations
Suncoast Puppy Raisers. We hope everyone had as much fun as we did and Thank
You all! Let’s do it again next year.
- Chuck & Debbie Hietala |
