The Waubee Lake Flotilla returned for its second year. This year’s winners were Dave and Elsa Bontrager with their “Fun In The Sun” float.

Text and Photos
By Lilli Dwyer
InkFreeNews

MILFORD — After the success of the first annual Waubee Lake Flotilla, the lake’s association brought it back around for a second year.

“I think it went well overall, people came out with a good attitude. … I know some have been thinking about it since last year,” said Wendi Darting, who organized the flotilla with the help of Dennise Leismer.

“I think the idea was to get more activity, more involvement around the lake,” Leismer said of the flotilla’s origins. “It seems like it’s drawing people out who have lived here a long time, seeing more activity around the lake.”

The theme this year was “Favorite Summer Pastime.” Flotilla participants decorated their boats with activities like fishing, pickleball and golf in mind. As judge, Bill Doege considered several options and almost declared a tie, but ultimately settled on one winner.

This year’s winners, Dave and Elsa Bontrager, took home a Harvest Coffee gift card. Their float was dubbed “Fun In The Sun” and puttered by the judge trailing bubbles, a rowboat with a fisherman dummy inside, and an inflatable duck.

“This one hits on something for all ages,” Doege declared.

The Bontragers said their participation was a spur of the moment decision, but they were glad they had done it.

“It’s just been a really great time,” Elsa said of their win.