Clearwater Marina Day Scheduled for August 9By Bill LopezCLEARWATER - Nowhere in the USA is water quality and shoreline more important to residents than in Clearwater. Taking the lead in celebrating what has become a nationwide observance, the city and the Clearwater Marina have declared Saturday, August 9, as National Marina Day. Clearwater Harbormaster Bill Morris said waterfront communities all across America will be celebrating the day with special marine related events and exhibits. In Clearwater, participating sponsors have organized demonstrations by the Clearwater Fireboat, the US Coast Guard Sand Key, the Pinellas Sheriff's Boat and others. Many of the vendors that work out of the Clearwater Marina will also offer special discounts and promotions. While the event started 9 years ago in marinas throughout the country and is held annually on the second Saturday in August, this is the first year it will be held in Clearwater. Morris said that marinas serve as safe, family-friendly gateways to boating and are stewards of the environment. The marina helps preserve the environment and allow the public to enjoy the waterways that are one of America's great natural resources. This is one way of saluting that stewardship, he said. The Clearwater Marina provides 209 slips and wants to recognize the marina's contribution to the seaside community way of life that is so much a part of our lives on the Florida Gulf Coast. The term "marina" was used, for the very first time several decades ago, by the National Association of Engine and Boat Manufacturers to define a recreational boating facility. Since then, marinas have become an integral part not only of American recreation, but also American life. National Marina Day 2008 celebrates not only the rich history of the marina industry, but its bright future as well. The Clearwater event starts at 8 a.m. and runs until 2 p.m. For more information and a list of all the activities, contact the Clearwater Marina office at 462-6954. Contact Bill Lopez at blopezmmm@aol.com.
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