This tradition of welcoming boaters with impromptu wine and cheese parties and roses was started by Fred Fearing and Joe Kramer in 1983. The story of the Rose Buddies receptions was one of the reasons I chose to move to Elizabeth City. I wanted to be part of a community that had a legacy of generosity and hospitality. While these receptions are a small gesture of hospitality, I was recently reminded of the impact one simple act can have on someone’s life. In October, we had the opportunity to welcome Darrell Dail, his son Carey Dail and daughter-in-law Robin Dail, traveling with good friends Jon and Teresa White. They were visiting Elizabeth City and sailing the Dismal Swamp Loop in memory of Darrell’s wife, Gladys Dail. They had planned on touring Elizabeth City and the Dismal Swamp Loop in 2013. However, Gladys was diagnosed with cancer before they could make the trip, and then passed away in January of 2015. We were honored to host a Rose Buddies reception for them. The former mayor of Elizabeth City, Steve Atkinson, was the master of ceremonies at the reception. While Fred, Joe and Gladys were not at the reception in person, we know they were lifting a glass to have a toast with us in spirit. I found out later in the journey, Darrell’s group set the roses they received in Elizabeth City free into the water in memory of Gladys. As the boating season is coming to a close, I have made many new friends, and I plan to see many of them return in the coming years. Submitted by: Christina Rehklau, Director, Elizabeth City Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
As tourism director, I host Rose Buddies receptions for visiting boaters. This tradition of welcoming boaters with impromptu wine and cheese parties and roses was started by Fred Fearing and Joe Kramer in 1983. The story of the Rose Buddies receptions was one of the reasons I chose to move to Elizabeth City. I wanted to be part of a community that had a legacy of generosity and hospitality.
