Sail Boston: Opening Ceremonies Reveal Stakeholder Pride
by Richard Campbell At noon this past Friday opening ceremonies for Sail Boston took place under the rotunda at the Boston Harbor Hotel, with a series of fitting tributes by stakeholders as well as presentation of the colors by different regimental outfits, and speeches by distinguished guests. The US Coast Guard Band played the national anthem and patriotic songs, as dignitaries from around the world saluted Boston. Maria Stephanos was the MC for the event, providing humorous anecdotes along with gracious introductions. After an opening salutation and prayers, the Vicar of the Old North Church, Reverend Stephen Ayres, gave his blessing of the ships and included an urgent plea to protect us from our enemies that gave a momentary solemnity to the occasion. Michael Mooney [...]