Summer sailing students work together to tie up an Opti at the dock. Christine Canella photo
The Apprenticeshop, 655 Main St. in Rockland, is celebrating 50 years of inspiring personal growth through craftsmanship, community and traditions of the sea.
During the week of July 17-23, The Apprenticeshop plans to invite former apprentices, staff, board members and the public to commemorate the milestone with free and family-friendly activities on the water and in the boatshop.
Events kick-off Sunday, July 17, with a “Party on the Pier” from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday. The “Sail Cinema” from 9 to 11 p.m. offers a unique opportunity to watch a “drive-in” style movie from the water.
Apprentices, instructors and volunteer John England discusses how to laminate frames for a 38-foot racing sloop. Front from left are England, Thomas Turansky, Kale Soud, instructor Daniel Creisher, and Maria Alexia Platia. Back from left are Eli Behar, Joshua Wiles, William Chen, Rick Craft and instructor Kevin Carney. Erin Tokarz photo
After an “Untraditional Regatta” on Wednesday afternoon, there will be a Texas barbecue at the water’s edge. Thursday evening features the only ticketed event, “Honoring our Past, Stewarding our Future,” which will celebrate all those who have contributed to keeping The Apprenticeshop vital for five decades as well as efforts to pass on its history and traditions to future generations.
The week culminates in a Free Friday Community Sail from 5 to 7:30 p.m., followed by pizza from Uproot Pie Co (to purchase). Saturday evening from 5 to 6 p.m. will feature the drawing of the winning ticket in the Susan Skiff Raffle as well as closing bids on a silent auction, followed by a closing bonfire.
Daytime events between noon and 5 p.m. include free sailing for youth and adults, shop tours and demonstrations, and opportunities to participate in building a traditional Portuguese Sardine Carrier as well as a floating sculpture. There will also be an interactive exhibit showcasing 50 years of The Apprenticeshop at the Steel House South Gallery right next door.
Skipper Joao Bentes casts off the dock with a boat full of participants in Free Friday Community Sailing. Submitted photo
Musicians, including Pen Bay Pan, Robin Lane, the Gawler Sisters, Trapper Haskins, Kate McCann of Skylark, and Split Willow will provide evening entertainment throughout the week.
The Apprenticeshop, a 501(c)(3) organization, engages youth and adults via long-term apprenticeships, during and after-school programs, short workshops, summer sailing classes and Free Friday Community Sailing. Financial aid is available.
To find out more about its programs or its celebration week, visit apprenticeshop.org/50th-anniversary.
Apprentices stand in front of their Susan Skiffs at Launch Day last December. From left are Amber Cordes-Eklund, Joanie Park, Julius Spradley, Benjamin Matos, Will Swenson, Colin Cornwall and Glen Pederson. Christine Canella photo
Check out other upcoming area events!
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