Waterfront Prayers for Safe Summer on the Seas

The practice of "Blessing the Fleet" dates, at least, to Biblical times but its prayers for safe return to shore is never more relevant than this summer.

Members of the Oyster Bay area's clergy blessed a parade of water craft during the 26th annual event on Oyster Bay. Sponsored by the the Oyster Bay Sail & Power Squadron , the group's mission is to promote water safety in all forms and runs instructional seminars throughout the year.

An assortment of vessels small and large paraded from mid-harbor toward Roosevelt Marina, then turned to port as they processed passed the assembled clergy and Power Squadron members. Each vessel was given an individual blessing by the clergy, whose members took turns at the microphone.
 Plainview's Larry Weiss, Past Commander of Oyster Bay Sail & Power Squadron said this year's event takes on great significance in the wake of the tragedy that took the lives of three children last July 4.

"May we remember the importance of boating safety and the souls of David Aureliano, Harley Treanor and Victoria Gaines, three innocent souls who lost their young lives in the tragedy." Weiss said.

Weiss urged that all boaters come together to celebrate safe and courteous boating on the waters of Oyster Bay and Long Island Sound.

The July 4, 2012 sinking took place when the Kandi Won capsized and sank off Oyster Bay. The 34-foot Silverton cruiser had 27 people onboard, including 10 children, when it went down in the dark following a fireworks display.
District Attorney Kathleen Rice determined there is insufficient evidence to mount a criminal prosecution in the case.