The Lorain Lighthouse Foundation’s old work boat began sinking last year, and a new one will take its place for 2024 and beyond. (Submitted)
The Lorain Lighthouse Foundation’s work boat was sinking last summer.
Ron Mantini, president and treasurer of the Lorain Lighthouse Foundation, said the organization spent about $10,000 last year alone in boat repairs, just trying to get the old work vessel through the summer.
On the last trip back from the lighthouse in 2023, the boat’s steering column finally gave out, which was the final straw, Mantini said.
“We managed to get through the summer last year, and that was about it,” he said. “We started looking for a new boat well over a year ago.
“We had looked online and found the kind of boat we wanted, and just one thing led to another, the new season came on.”
A workhorse for 20 years, it finally was time to put the old boat to rest before the 2024 season began, Mantini said.
And one $75,000 loan from Buckeye Community Bank later, and the foundation had a new work boat.
Now, Mantini and the foundation are looking for help from the community.
With about $45,000 left to cover from the loan, the foundation has put a call out to anyone looking to donate to its cause.
“We know there are many, many people who have enjoyed tours and dinners at the Lorain Lighthouse,” Mantini said. “Lake Erie Magazine’s readers voted the Lorain Lighthouse, your lighthouse, the best on Lake Erie for the 10th year in a row, and we want to continue to show it off to as many people as we can.”
He stressed that the lighthouse is a designated historic place for Ohio.
Helping the foundation cover the boat not only will keep the lights on, but help events run smoothly throughout the summer season.
“The only way you can get to the lighthouse is by boat,” Mantini said. “(This boat) is for getting our volunteers and supplies back and forth to the lighthouse for all our events.
“During the summer, we have tours and other events.”
Mantini said the foundation already has received a $30,000 grant from Lorain County Convention and Business Bureau.
However, the foundation still is looking for funds from businesses, Lorainites and city government to help cover the rest.
“We’re just asking for donations from the general public, whatever they can give,” Mantini said.
For those looking to donate to the foundation’s cause, checks are payable to The Lorain Lighthouse Foundation and mailed to 319 Black River Lane, Lorain, OH 44052.
Donations also are accepted through the website, lorainlighthouse.com/donate.
