Media Advisory/Photo Opportunity

Canadian Family to Conclude First Solar-Powered Cruise on New York’s Canals

ALBANY, NY (08/23/2007)(readMedia)-- New York State Canal Corporation Director Carmella R. Mantello will join State and local officials and community members on Friday, August 24, 2007 at 11 a.m. at the Waterford Harbor Visitor Center in Waterford, Saratoga County, to welcome the Gisborne Family of Ontario, Canada at the conclusion of their first solar-powered cruise in North America. The family kicked-off their historic cruise in Oswego, New York, on August 12 and visited numerous cities and villages along New York’s Erie and Oswego canals.

Mr. Monte Gisborne, along with his family, was the first to travel the Rideau Canal and the Trent-Severn waterway in Ontario, Canada using solar power. They chose the New York State Canal System for their first solar-powered journey in America. During the journey, the family has received much media attention and hopes to introduce more Americans to this exciting, zero-emission form of boating which melds the environmental advantages of sailing with the convenience and comfort benefits of power boating.

Members of the media are invited to attend. Interview opportunities will be available. If you would like more information regarding this press conference, please call the New York State Canal Corporation at 518-436-3055.

DIRECTIONS: (From Albany, Troy, Schenectady)- Take 787 north to the end (Cohoes); turn right onto Rte. 32 North, continue to Waterford (Rte. 32/Broad St.); take Broad Street to Second Street, turn south and follow the brown Heritage Area Visitor Center signs to the Waterford Harbor Visitor Center parking lot. Press conference will take place along the canal wall in front of the Visitor Center. In the event of inclement weather, the press conference will take place inside the Visitor Center.

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