Although the Thanksgiving holiday does not occur for another two months – and no we are not rushing the calendar like big box retailers and family television networks – we would like to take the time to give thanks to those whose time and dedication make both Haven Harbour Marina and Haven Harbour South a daily reality.

Last Saturday, Sept. 21, Haven Harbour Marina Resorts staff put on their annual Slipholder Appreciation Crab Feast and Party, a way to thank those for taking part in the Haven Harbour experience by being annual slipholders, dry storage patrons and valued service customers.

Local and delicious crabs were enjoyed while live music was provided by the local Blake Thompson Band.

Though the event was a great success, we failed to give thanks on paper, or in this case on screen. Both new and seasoned, those keeping their home-away-from-homes, their "babies" so to speak, are the lifeblood of our operation. Their combined presence on the docks, around our facilities and throughout the Rock Hall community is what makes our time on the job as Haven Harbour employees worthwhile.

"We do this to show appreciation for our customers," said Chief Operating Officer Mark Bryden. "There's a lot we're thankful for here, but our slipholders are chief among the list."

Continuing in the spirit of thanksgiving, we pay our deepest gratitude to HHM and HHS office and boatyard staff for their hard work, dedication and can-do attitude that spans each working day every year – and sometimes beyond.

"We do this partly to relieve the stress of operating a predominately seasonal business," said General Manager Woodrow Loller. "But it also serves as a team building opportunity for us to see one another outside of the daily working environment."

23 employees aboard two charters caught keepers, numerous laughs and a feeling of camaraderie for what it means to be a Haven Harbour staff member.

"I like to think of the staff as a family," said Chief Financial Officer and Inn Manager Dottie Wetmore. "Sometimes you do things as a family to boost morale, and that's exactly what an end-of-season fishing trip provides."

Marketing Manager