Nitro, W.Va. – The Nitro Historic Commission will hold Nitro’s Centennial Riverboat Cruise on Sunday, June 25, 2017 to raise funds for local veterans’ groups. The cruise will be part of the yearlong series of Nitro Centennial events, marking the city’s founding during World War I as a center for gunpowder manufacturing, but organizers hope to make it an annual event.
“We hope many people will take advantage of this opportunity for a pleasant cruise on the Kanawha River and help us start a lasting tradition,” Jennifer Hensley, secretary of the Nitro Historic Commission, said. “It will be a good time for a good cause.”
All funds from sponsorships, ticket sales and such activities as a silent auction during the cruise will go to Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3466 and American Legion Post 187.
BB Riverboats of Cincinnati will provide the cruise on the River Queen riverboat. Boarding for the cruise and brunch buffet will occur between 11:00 a.m. and noon at the Robert C. Byrd Boat Dock at Main Avenue in Nitro. The boat will cruise along Nitro’s riverfront between noon and 2:00 p.m.
“Corporate sponsorships are underwriting the costs of the cruise and the buffet, so all the funds from ticket sales will go to the veterans’ groups,” Hensley said. “The number of people who can participate in the brunch buffet will be limited to 100, although if more corporate sponsorships come through, the number could be expanded to 200. Because of that, there is an incentive for getting tickets as early as possible.”
The cost of tickets for people who buy them early enough to get the brunch buffet is only $10. Those who buy tickets after the buffet is sold out will also pay $10 but will receive only snacks including cheese, vegetables and cupcakes. Those who buy tickets on the day of the cruise (or after the first 200 tickets are sold) will pay $20 and receive only snacks. Tickets may be purchased at Town & Country Supply, 4400 First Avenue, Nitro, or by calling 304-755-3520.
