July 2017 — Hundreds of spectators lined the waterways, cheering as the festively decorated boats in the 12th annual Lake Interlochen Independence Day Boat
Parade cruised by. Mike Saliba of Porto Bello once again was the announcer with colorful commentary provided by Yvonne Pendleton of Montreau.
Grand Marshal was Carole Findlay, longtime resident of Porto Bello and widow of Bob Findlay, developer of the Lake Interlochen community. Back in the 1970s, she created the Interlochen Christmas Lights, as a way to market this unique residential development. She was also the driving force behind the construction of Findlay Linear Park.
The three winning entries were:
First — Lillie Owings portraying Betsy Ross sewing the American Flag riding on Roger Pendleton’s boat.
Second – The Sobels, with Ralph starring as Donald Trump. He was a huge hit. Nothing fake about it.
Third – Peggy and Lee Jennings on Miss Peggy Lee, decorated with American flags and red, white and blue stars.
Mike Saliba served as master-of-ceremonies and Yvonne Pendleton provided color commentary for the July 4th Boat Parade.
Grand Marshal was Carole Findlay, who with late husband Bob developed and marketed the Lake Interlochen residential community in the 1970s.
First Place went to Lillie Owings portraying Betsy Ross sewing the American Flag. She rode on her grandfather Roger Pendleton’s boat.
Second Place went to the Sobels, with Ralph starring as President Donald Trump — which demands a close-up: ê
Third Place was won by Peggy and Lee Jennings, aboard the newest boat on the lake, Miss Peggy Lee.
The Brace family — the only people-powered boat in the parade.
Among the many backyard spectators were the Wiggins family of Porto Bello.
We were honored to have the first Grand Marshal Vernon Porter and wife Frances. Sitting with them are Micki Hartin of Westwood and Carole & Gary Harston of Porto Bello.
Sandy Sevier, Janet LeBlanc and friend Carla were among the more active at the parade’s Party Central on Porto Bello.
Chris Slauter hosted a large party of parade watchers at her Montreau home.
You can watch Olivia Saliba’s video of this year’s parade at this YouTube link:
https://youtu.be/lEHgU0xu21c