Each year during the 3rd weekend in November, the City of Norfolk holds its Grand Illumination Parade, which kicks of the holiday season in the city. The culminating event is the illumination of the Norfolk downtown skyline. The parade features spectacular floats, marching bands, giant balloons, dancers, and Santa himself. This year, the HYC Casual Cruisers, HYC Power Boat Cruisers, and BBSA Cruisers will be heading down to Norfolk as a joint cruise.

On Saturday evening, as in years past, we hold a crock pot challenge. Last year we had over 16 crockpots consisting of all manner of hot brews, chilis, soups, and stews. A large first place bottle of Bacardi rum was awarded to Mike Ottaway for his Thai Butternut soup. The award was presented by Christina Ritger, last year’s grand prize winner. The second-place award, a bottle of Tennessee Salty Caramel Whiskey, was presented to Jonathan Romero for his Carolina meatballs, and third place award, of a flask of Sailor Jerry rum was awarded to Amy Guyer for her Peppermint Schnapps hot cocoa.

During the event many participants took advantage Norfolk Waterside’s E-Scooters, to explore the downtown waterfront scene, the Waterside Live marketplace, Towne Point Park and Nauticus.

As has been the tradition over the last few cruises, Jean & Jerry Pattenaude will again host a robust and hearty Sunday morning breakfast about their catamaran, Shangri-La before folks depart for points home. Make sure to bring a hearty breakfast dish to pass.

Start making your plans now to attend this year’s Grand Illumination cruise. Please let me know if you will be attending and also contact Waterside marina at (757) 625-3625 or via Dockwa to make your reservations. Let them know that you are part of the Hampton Yacht Club Cruise/BBSA Cruise, and we will see you there!

Jonathan Romero

S/V Tempo

romeroarms@cox.net

(757) 285-6017