Lake Erie Rally draws a mysterious crowd

By Greg Arnold

Who would have guessed there would have been not one but two “murders” on Lake Erie this summer? But that’s exactly what happened the weekend of June 13-15 at the Lake Erie Rally on Middle Bass Island. 

The Murder Mystery Weekend, hosted by Rear Commodore Jim and Janice Ehrman, was a resounding success for everyone – except for, you know, those poor murder victims. All told, the rally had 21 boats and 44 people attending. 

Those who arrived Thursday were welcomed with a flat bread social and trivia game at the Lonz Pavilion, with the food provided by the team at the Island Grind. They did a splendid job all weekend, providing the Friday night dinner of BBQ and pulled pork, as well as the Saturday evening Italian dinner for the main event, the Mystery Reveal. After breakfast Saturday, the group transitioned to the Port Captain’s meeting at the “Speakeasy” room in the Island Grind due to the weather.

All weekend, guests were provided with clues to the mystery, including at the Port Captain’s meeting, which got everyone involved. The Saturday afternoon games -- Blind Rage, Dance to Die For, and Friend or Foe -- were great fun. Everyone probably learned a little more about each other than expected in the Friend or Foe game.

The weather presented some challenges, especially the high winds. Fortunately, the weather moderated for the main event Saturday evening. Sunday morning brought some easing of the wind, at least enough to allow folks departing on Sunday a safe trip home.

Middle Bass Island’s peaceful, serene setting has made it a welcome destination. It’s not as lively as her sister islands, but still well worth the visit, especially if one is looking for a relaxing place to get away from it all. 

If you still want more to do, Put-In-Bay is only a short ferry ride away on the Sonny-S. You can enjoy all that Put-In-Day has to offer – shopping, yummy frozen bushwhackers, and ‘chowdahhh” at the Boardwalk – before coming back to a quiet relaxing evening at Middle Bass Island. 

An added bonus is the Lonz Winery mansion. This historic building has been fully restored with beautiful period furnishings. The second floor is available for rent for overnight stays. It’s great to see it brought back to life.

Thank you to Jim and Janice Ehrman as well as all the other volunteers who made the weekend such a success.