What do you do on a rainy Saturday night? If you’re a Highland Lake resident, you participate in the boat parade, of course! This year’s parade was extra special, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Highland Lake Watershed Association.

The hours leading up to the parade were a bit tense, trying to determine whether or not to cancel the parade because of inclement weather. So much thought and hard work went into everyone’s preparations – from boat decorations to costumes to shore decoration – the parade began in spite of the rain.

Pirates, beaches, and other creative themes livened up the lake. It was a smaller crowd because of the rain, and was cut a little short by downpours and lightning. In true Highland Lake fashion, however, there was no lack of spirit and enthusiasm.

The judges had a difficult task. In our opinion, we think everyone deserved a prize. Here’s a rundown of the winners, grouped by daytime and nighttime decoration:

Daytime

• The O’Connells from Perch Rock Trail took home first prize for their pirate-themed boat. While there were numerous pirate boats on the lake, the O’Connell crew went all out with their costumes, treasure chest, fishing net with pirates’ treasure, and more. Everyone on the boat was in full pirate character, with patches over one eye. If we didn’t know better, we would have sworn it was national “Talk Like a Pirate Day.” Yes, the day really exists!
• Second place went to Mary and Rich Carotenuti for their HLWA 5-0 boat. Their clever play on words was complemented by the Hawaii 5-0 TV theme resonating from their boat. Grass skirts, leis, and hula dancing were in abundant supply as well.
• What would a Highland Lake event be without Matt Smith and his entourage? They did not disappoint! Rock tunes were cranking, and their patriotic decorations were visible from a mile away. Thanks for the tunes. Was it raining? The mood from the boat was bright as sunshine!

• Annemarie and Gene Janczak and Sheryl Grant took home the nighttime grand prize. The three were in a small motorized rowboat which had a fantastic skipper theme that reminded us of Gilligan’s Island. The centerpiece was their American flag light display.
• The Lauzon family, headed by Mr. Bob Lauzon himself, took second place. What can we say – lots and lots of lights! Few people rival the spirit and ingenuity of Mr. Lauzon.
• Rounding out the nighttime winners was the Neal crew. They had the ultimate party boat, with the Budweiser theme in full swing. Even the Bud frog was along for a ride, lit up on the deck of the boat, thoroughly at ease with being the center of attention. Word of advice from the judges: perhaps, just maybe, you might have fared better if Belgium libations were the theme. We’re just saying . . .

Before closing, we have to thank our fellow judges: Rhonda and Kim Marchand (of Marchand Electric), and Sue and Bob Bailey (of Health Food Corner). They took their role as judges seriously. We were all thrilled to be able to see all the wonderfully decorated boats.

Cheers, and enjoy the rest of summer! Remember, it’s not over when Labor Day arrives. There’s still lots of beautiful weather to be enjoyed.