Baldwinsville Chamber presents annual Blessing of the Fleet

Kick off the boating season this weekend with Baldwinsville’s Blessing of the Fleet.

The Greater Baldwinsville Chamber of Commerce has organized several events for this annual celebration including a new function, the Blessing of the Pets, and a commemoration of Lock 24’s 100th anniversary.

“There are many communities around the world who have a blessing of the pets event,” said Roberta Cifaratta of the chamber. “It is a way for us to recognize the importance of our pet companions in our lives.”

Held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday evening at Paper Mill Island, community members are invited to bring their pets to the island for a blessing and parade, followed by a pet show and prizes. The Rev. Joseph McGarry will conduct the blessing both Friday for the pets and Saturday afternoon (from 2 to 3:30 p.m.) for the blessing of boats along Lock 24.

“Pastor McGarry really enjoys being a part of Baldwinsville,” Cifaratta said. “He especially enjoys being a part of community events like the Blessing of the Fleet. Events like this show our community that the spirit is alive and open to everyone.”

In an effort to honor the 100th anniversary of Lock 24, The Rev. McGarry will also lead a celebration service prior to the blessing of the boats.

The weekend celebration begins Thursday with the Chamber Golf Tournament at Timber Banks. Registration is $105 per person and includes captain-and-crew format, greens fees, a cart, lunch, dinner and beverages. Contests will include the longest drive, closest to the pin, putting contest, a skins game and more.

The annual kid’s fishing derby will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Mercer Park where children from 5 to 12 years old can angle for Sunfish, Bluegills, bass and bullheads competing for prizes for the biggest and smallest fish. Registration begins at 8:15 a.m. and the first 50 children will receive a free fishing pole. The Baldwinsville Kiwanis sponsor the event donating prizes and poles for the children. The Baldwinsville Police Department will also provide children’s safety information for parents during the derby.

For adults interested in getting into the competitive spirit, the Seneca Sprints Kayak and Canoe race returns Saturday (11:30 a.m.) at Mercer Park. Register for the three-mile race ahead of time for $10 per person or the day of for $15 per person. There are three categories: super adult (over 60), adult and mixed (minor with an adult over 18).

“This is a great recreational family event,” Cifaratta said.

After the race, participants can have their vessel blessed for the season along the south wall of the Seneca River then head to Paper Mill Island for the chamber’s clambake featuring three bands, all-you-can-eat-and-drink (including beer) and the Brass, Inc. concert (held from 8 to 11 p.m.). Tickets for the clambake are $45.

“People should come to the weekend events because there are lots of opportunity for entire families to participate. You can play golf on Thursday, take your family out to the Blessing of the Pets on Friday, take the kids fishing or canoeing on Saturday and then get a babysitter for the clam bake on Saturday night,” Cifaratta said. “The weekend will be filled with fun activities and community spirit.”

Major sponsors for the weekend include T.J. Sheehan and Syracuse Home. Proceeds from the events benefit both the chamber and the Humane Association of CNY. For more information, call 638-0550 or visit baldwinsvillechamber.com.

Blessing of the Fleet weekend schedule

Chamber Golf Tournament

Thursday June 10, 11a.m. registration, 1 p.m. shotgun start

Blessing of the Pets

5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday June 11 at Paper Mill Island

Kids Fishing Derby

9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday June 12 at Mercer Park

Seneca Sprints Kayak/Canoe Race

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday June 12 at Mercer Park

Blessing of the Fleet

2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday June 12 at Paper Mill Island

Clams, Crews & Brews

3:30 to 7 p.m. Saturday June 12 at Paper Mill Island.