As we prepare to transition from summer to fall, we have placed another Ohio River Sternwheel Festival in the books. Despite some inclement weather Saturday morning, the 37th annual Ohio River Sternwheel Festival was a great success.
I would like to take a moment to thank those who contributed to the success of this year's festival. I would like to thank all the committee members who worked tirelessly preparing for this event throughout the entire year. Without their hard work and dedication, this event would not be possible. I would also like to thank all the corporate sponsors and individual donors. These donations, whether financial or goods and services, are what allow us to provide this festival free of charge to the public. The committee would like to thank, Mayor Joe Matthews and the city of Marietta for all their assistance in preparing and executing this event. We would be remiss if we did not thank all the boat captains who brought their works of art and labors of love to the festival. Some of these captains travel great distances each year to attend, and they greatly appreciate the support and hospitality from the community. Without these captains and boats, there would be no sternwheel festival. Personally, I would like to thank the following individuals who assisted with the opening ceremonies: Jennifer Simmons, Pastor Jeff Baumer, the Marietta City Fire Department Honor Guard, and Mark Mondo. Finally, the committee would like to thank all who attended and made this event such a success.
We will soon begin planning and preparing for next year's festival, with the goal of making it even bigger and better than this year's. Thanks again to all, and we hope to see you on the levee in September of 2013.
Jon Coppernoll, 2012 director general
Ohio River Sternwheel Festival
