New Attractions at Canalfest 2009
Rome Rotary Canalfest at Bellamy Harbor Park is held during the first weekend in August. This year it is Friday, July 31, thru Sunday, August 2nd. Each year the Canalfest gets bigger and better. We begin this seventh year without exception with the introduction of new attractions --
Pirate Ship Rides
Joe Serth, Camp Mohawk Valley Water Ski School of Scotia, New York, is joining Canalfest this year for a weekend of activities, including rides July 31, Aug. 1 and 2 on a pirate ship for a donation of $5.
The top ranked skier in his day, he also built the $30,000 pirate boat that doubles as the boat pulling skiers and as a tour boat for festivals. Pirate paraphernalia will also be sold throughout the three-day festival.
Water Ski Show
Coordinator and owner of Camp Mohawk Valley Water Ski School, Joe Serth, says there are plans for tentative exhibition skiing Friday night, if time permits, followed Saturday by the two shows -- 3 and 7 p.m. The shows will feature everything from ballet skiing to flips, jumps and a 12-man pyramid. Skiers range in age from seven to 18, says Serth, who started the ski school in 1994.
"Ya Gotta Regatta"
This year will be the first annual V.I.P.S Regatta. Contestants will build and race a floating craft. Anything that floats can enter as long as there are no standard boat parts. The craft will be displayed and judged in several categories. The craft will then be raced late Saturday afternoon. See the Entry forms.pdf for further detail. If you are interested in being a sponsor for this event see the Regatta_Brochure.pdf. For further information see the June 25th Rome Observer article.
Amusement Rides
Four additional kiddie rides are being added including , a swing ride, merry-go-round and a slide ride.
"Who Let the Dogs Out"
Saturday from 10 am - 1 pm is the 4th Annual "Who Let the Dogs Out" event. This event was formerly presented by the Rome City Clerk's Office and is now presented at Canalfest. There are contests for biggest dog, smallest dog, best trick, best costume, do you look like your dog, and peoples choice. There are two classes of handlers 15 and under, 16 and over. The last day to register is July 27th. The Entry Form is available in both Word and pdf formats. Call 339-7659 for additional information. Also see the Rome Sentinel article.