Norfolk, Va., May 14, 2008

We are staying at the Waterside Marina, which is right in downtown Norfolk. It is within walking distance of many different attractions. We are right next to the large park and the U.S.S. Wisconsin and Nauticus Museum.

The statue you see is “The Homecoming”, a sailor returning home to his wife and son. The large anchor is one of two which was on a large aircraft carrier.

We spent most of the day at the Battleship Wisconsin and Naval Museum and the Nauticus Maritime and Science Museum which is in the same building. We really enjoyed both places. The Wisconsin had retired veterans aboard as resources for questions, some who had served on the Wisconsin. We met one very nice retired naval captain.

The Nauticus Museum had an extensive NOAA Exhibit. There were ‘hands on’ exhibits which would be wonderful for children (and adults like them too). There was a Touch Tank where you could touch large snails, horseshoe crabs, starfish, etc. There was also a Shark Touch exhibit which we did not particiate in. We did participate in a simulated naval battle on an Aegis-class destroyer and watched “The Living Sea” in a large screen theater.

“The Living Sea” was a 45 minute movie talking about the power and significance of the world’s ocean. The music was by Sting and Meryl Streep narrated. It was beautifully done and not only showed the power of the ocean but how we need to stay aware of the beauty of what’s underneath and how keeping it healthy benefits all of us.

Downtown Norfolk is very clean and thriving. Darrell had been here for a few weeks back in the late 60’s and he said he wouldn’t have recognized it. The city has made it a goal to have a safe, clean waterfront and is doing what it takes to make it happen. Norfolk has an excellent free NET (Norfolk Electric Transfer) system which runs around the downtown area. They have Downtown Norfolk Public Safety Ambassadors who are on the streets 7 days a week providing information, directions or recommendations, and who can be called on to be an escort if you feel unsafe. We met one of their ambassadors when we were riding around on the bus. Even though he was off duty he answered our questions and was very helpful.

Walking back to our boat we came across Bruce and Bonnie, a couple we had met previously at the AGLAC Rendezvous. They are staying in the same marina we are.