By Bob Simon
Tampa Bay, it’s 4:00 p.m., and the crowd is gathering at the bay shore in front of Sparkman Wharf facilities. The spicy gleam of the sunset on visitors’ necks shows them that they are facing the West Coast of the Sunshine State.
Wearing blue, white, and red, family, friends, and tourists worldwide seek a place with a great view of the bay. At the same time, the water ski show professionals check out their tools and equipment.
A few minutes later, Peter Fernandez, a board member of the Water Ski Show Team, opens the celebration with the national anthem following the move of the professional skiers. “it’s been more than a decade since we entertain the audience,” Fernandez said.
Among the hundreds of people who attended the water ski show, Miguel and his wife, believe it’s a great time to hang out with family and friends. However, “I am here for the fireworks; that’s my hobby,” Miguel said.
The boat parade arrival is set at 7:30 p.m. at the Sparkman Wharf, where any boat which arrives first wins the patriotic prize. Small, big ships are red, white, and blue, streaming in a single file travel from the Convention Center through Curtis Hixon Park, Amature Works, and ends at Sparkman Wharf.
“This annual event is hosted by Riverwalk, which provides a prize to the winner of the most patriotic boat. “It is a good time for Tampa Bay residents to put aside their communication devices and engage in in-person conversation while admiring the amazing shows” concluded Miguel.
DC of Tampa 