The Docks Finally Rocked for Seamen's Church Institute

A spectacular sunset at Newport Shipyard

Hurricane Irene postponed the bash for a few weeks, but she failed to dampen the spirits of the bevy of partiers who showed up to Newport Shipyard to "Rock the Docks" at the Seamen Church Institute's annual summer fundraiser. Each year, this nautical celebration boasts hot music, cool drinks, fantastic lobster, and great company, all to raise money for this devoted organization whose mission is "to serve those connected to the sea."

SCI's annual fete sets itself apart from many other nonprofits because all of the setup prep, much of the cooking, the serving, and the breakdown are performed by its own board members, who wear white jackets especially for the event -- some with funny crab or lobster hats! The lobsters were donated this year by Aquidneck Lobster Co. and Newport's Lobster Fleet, who were described as "fishermen wanting to give back to the Seamen's."

David Brown

Honorary Co-chairs Charlie and Posey Dana, owners of Newport Shipyard, were all smiles when welcoming guests, as was their son, Eli Dana (who runs the shipyard) and his new wife, Lauren. Board President David Brown also greeted incoming arrivals. Attendees included well-known sailor and author Gary Jobson, David Elwell, Bing and Betsy West, Jimmy Gibson, Bill and Elizabeth Leatherman, David and Mary Bush-Brown, Bart Dunbar, Leith Adams, Carrie and Jann Slee, Richard and Barbara Bohan, and David and Debbie Grant.

The mood was jovial, and the party was well-attended despite the change of date. As guests sat down to enjoy the delicious lobster meal, David Brown took the stage to thank the attendees and to introduce Institute Director John Feld, who spoke about the type of services that Seamen's continually provides to mariners, and how the newly renovated guest rooms on the top floor are providing additional income to help the organization's mission.

Board Chair Peter Gerard then took the microphone, inspiring laughter with his wit and selling naming opportunities for various parts of the building, as well as asking for donations of care baskets which the Seamen's provides to needy families each year at Christmas. Gary Jobson went from table to table signing copies of his new book, An American Sailing Story, which he donated and which guests were able to purchase that night. Peter's wife, Melinda Gerard, was the lucky auction winner of the massive stack of Jobson's full anthology, which he cheerfully signed book by book at her table.

Posey Dana & Rick Grosvenor

Newport's own Honky Tonk Nights played a tight, rousing set of fabulous classics that had guests up and dancing until every table had been broken down.

-- Amanda M. Grosvenor