U.S. COAST GUARD LEADS TRADITIONAL WREATH TOSS AND BLESSING FOR BOATERS OUT OF THE ILWACO BOAT BASIN ON MAY 5, AT 1PM

Annual ceremony marks the beginning of boating season

WHAT:     An annual, traditional observance to bless boaters and all those who have lost their lives at sea. The ceremony involves a non-denominational blessing by a minister from the Peninsula Church Center, a wreath drop from a US Coast Guard helicopter, and the tossing of flowers by boat passengers. Charter boat operators offer free boat rides (first come, first served) from the Ilwaco Boat Basin to the blessing site (on the main part of the Columbia River; approx. 10 min. out of Ilwaco).

WHEN:   Sat., May 5, with boats departing at 1PM. Allow 45 minutes to an hour.

WHERE:  Ilwaco Boat Basin, public parking lot is near the intersection of Howerton Ave. and Pearl Ave. SE, Ilwaco, Washington

WHO:  Contact Mike Cassinelli, Mayor of Ilwaco, at (503) 970-1284 for more information