My buddy James Eves from Cape Ann Giclee writes in-
Hey Joey,
I can’t thank you enough for spearheading the 2013 Rum and Cigar Cruise on the Lannon. I saw the post on GMG about 6 weeks ago and thought that I should buy a ticket. I yelled from my desk to Anna, “Hey, I think I’ll buy a ticket to the Rum and Cigar Cruise”. She agreed. (lucky for me, my wife, partner and muse encourages me to take time to enjoy the benefits of living in heaven). So, I bought a ticket.
I tried to get some work done today, but really spent most of my time in anticipation of the cruise. I stopped pretending to work at about 4:30 and headed down to the dock at five. I was first on line for the 6:00 cruise and watched the unloading of passengers from the previous sail. I met Mimi, An older woman (she told me her age but made me promise not to reveal her secret). She is from Haverhill, but the highlight of her year, every year, is spending a few weeks in Gloucester. We do live in the best place on earth.
Mimi left and I watched the Lannon crew prep the ship for the next cruise.
After a reasonably short wait they started loading the ship. I walked down the ramp and onto the deck. I was there greeted by a young woman from Old Cuban Cigar Company who handed me two fine cigars. I lit my first one immediately. Once we were all aboard the Captain spoke of safety and what to expect on the cruise around Gloucester harbor. He then introduced the Old Cuban Cigar guy who told us just how fine the cigars we were smoking were. He, in turn, introduced us to Bob Ryan of Ryan & Wood Distillery. Bob and his wife proceeded to dole out rum the likes of which few get to enjoy.
With the strong smoke and smooth drink my work life faded to a blurry haze. Then I was able to truly appreciate where I was and see the beauty of Gloucester Harbor.
It was a beautiful night with a strong wind. The crowd on the boat were all GMG FOBs so I felt right at home. I was, however a bit disappointed that Joey C wasn’t there. Then I heard some cheers from the back of the boat and then saw Joey arriving in a small inflatable to starboard. “well”, I thought, “the party now begins”. and so it did.
I must say, how grateful I am to you, Joey, for your enthusiasm and the role model you are for those of us in Gloucester who truly strive to grow our community through our business and our lives. I was quite a treat to watch from the bow as you circled the boat and brought the party to life.
It was indeed a beautiful cruise. It felt timeless.
Once docked there was talk of an after party at Stones. I’d never been. ( I know it odd but I am fairly new to Gloucester.) The party continued there and I could see that the cruise had washed away the hard days work for more that just me.
Wow, What a perfect night, only in Gloucester!!
Good Morning Gloucester 