Event celebrates marina life
When a member of the Rosston Eddy Marina suddenly died this year, co-owner Lauren Chorney was pleased by the support other boaters had for the man's widow.
"The people from this marina ... (who) showed up was phenomenal," she said.
The family-like atmosphere is an example of the sense of community that grows at a marina, and a reason why National Marina Day started in 2002. The Rosston Eddy Marina will participate in the nationwide festivities Saturday along the Allegheny River with demonstrations, free hot dogs and a celebration.
The marina, co-owned by Chorney and Bill Knopp, docks more than 60 boats and water-skis. Boat and motor service and sales are available at the marina, and a deck offers a hot tub and lounge chairs for members to relax when they're not on the water.
"Marinas are gateways to our waterways," Chorney said.
She hopes National Marina Day will allow residents all over the country to learn about marinas and appreciate what they do in a time when professional developers are buying waterfront property for homes and businesses.
"It's more than just plunking a boat in the water and going," she said.
The Rosston marina attracts boaters from outside of the county and generations of families. Boaters take part in all types of activities along the Allegheny River, including fishing, swimming or just relaxing, she said, which shows the role marinas play in a person's well-being.
"There's just something comforting about sitting on the river and being in the water," she said.
Boater Mark Faykosh of Ford City can attest to the community feel to a marina.
"There's always somebody willing to help you out down here," he said.
As he pushed off from the Rosston marina Thursday afternoon with his grandsons, Faykosh said he enjoys fishing and relaxing while on the river.
"You just couldn't find a nicer place to come to," he said. "Everybody's so friendly."
National Marina Day
Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Rosston Eddy Marina
Activities include: Bobber the Safety Dog from the Army Corps of Engineers, free hot dogs and sauerkraut, children's giveaways, prizes and safety demonstrations.
