LAKE HOPATCONG — More than 130 star-spangled boats and vessels carrying hundreds of flag-waving passengers joined a flotilla that cruised around New Jersey’s largest lake this past Saturday to celebrate America’s 250th birthday during a day of festivities.
Hosted by the Morris County 250th Anniversary Celebrations Committee and the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, the free celebration transformed the lake into a sea of red, white and blue as the decorated boats and watercraft floated past residents, businesses and community organizations who had decorated docks, homes and storefronts along the shore.
The Hopatcong Fire Department welcomed participants from the River Styx Road bridge, sounding its fire engines and saluting the passing boats. Raccoon Island resident Bill Kays, portraying General George Washington, cruised the lake aboard his classic Chris-Craft, delighting spectators and adding a Revolutionary-era touch to the floating celebration.
“Seeing so many families, boaters and residents come together on Lake Hopatcong to celebrate America’s 250th birthday was truly inspiring,” said Morris County Commissioner Christine Myers, a member of the Morris County 250th Anniversary Celebrations Committee. “The incredible turnout, patriotic spirit and enthusiasm shown by everyone on the water and along the shoreline was an uplifting and memorable way to honor America’s 250th birthday.”
The Patriotic Boat Parade departed from Nolan’s Point, with the historic Miss Lotta and the Floating Classroom leading the procession, followed by more than 130 vessels decorated in red, white and blue. Sailboats participating in the All Fleet Sail, along with kayakers, canoeists and paddleboarders joining the Paddler Flotilla, followed with their own routes along the lake. Live music and family-friendly entertainment continued around the lake throughout the day.
Morris County officials who joined the outing included Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, Deputy Director John Krickus, Commissioners Douglas Cabana, Deborah Smith and Christine Myers, state Senator Anthony M. Bucco, County Clerk Ann Grossi, Assistant County Administrator Brian Murray, and Morris County 250th Anniversary Celebrations Committee Executive Director Sarah Neibart, along with staff from the Morris County Tourism Bureau. Lake mayors in the flotilla included Jefferson Township Mayor Eric Wilsusen, Mount Arlington Mayor Michael Stanzilis, Roxbury Mayor Shawn Potillo and Hopatcong Mayor Marie Galate. Ron Smith, chairman of the Lake Hopatcong Commission, was also aboard the Miss Lotta.
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon also participated, patrolling the lake with Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose and local police while greeting boaters and helping ensure a safe celebration.
Morris County extended its appreciation to Marty Kane, president, and Bob Kays, vice president, of the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, as well as the Lake Hopatcong Foundation and the many partners, volunteers and community organizations whose efforts made the celebration possible.
The event was part of Morris County’s countywide 250th anniversary initiative, commemorating the county’s role in the American Revolution while encouraging residents and visitors to explore its historic sites, communities and destinations.
