Story last updated at 5/5/2010 - 3:09 pm
JUNEAU - On Saturday, May 22 (National Maritime Day), Juneau will celebrate its maritime history, culture and commerce in the inaugural Juneau Maritime Festival. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., a packed schedule of waterfront activities will draw attention to the many ways in which Juneau's economy is tied to the sea.
Over the past several weeks, the Juneau Economic Development Council has garnered ideas and support from a diverse cross-section of the community, and has begun building a coalition of businesses and organizations that are planning and organizing the Festival. Resource Data Inc., the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, Goldbelt Inc., the Marine Exchange of Alaska, Alaska SeaGrant, the US Coast Guard, United Fishermen of Alaska, and the US Navy are among the regulars who comprise the organizing committee, and they emphasize that the festival will be greatly enhanced if many others will join them over the remaining weeks leading up to the festival.
The organizing committee meets every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to noon at JEDC's conference room (612 West Willoughby, across from A&P). The meetings are open to the public and all businesses and individuals with interest in maritime culture and commerce are encouraged to become involved.
The festival's primary venue is downtown Juneau's Marine Park and Plaza, where up to 75 local businesses and organizations will showcase, demonstrate and sell products and services.
One activity sure to generate interest and excitement is a live demonstration of a water rescue by a Coast Guard helicopter. At the Coast Guard's booth there will also be a contest to see who can get into a survival suit fastest. Attendees can tour a commercial fishing vessel or a motor life boat that can safely roll over in rough seas, or visit The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's mobile forecasting station.
Kids will enjoy fishing on-site, operating remote-operated underwater robots, and activities specifically oriented toward their participation.
The festival is enjoying a groundswell of momentum, but organizers emphasize urgent needs for sponsors, volunteers, contestants and resources.
Those interested in having a booth for information, sales or demonstrations and anyone wanting to enter the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute's "Wild Alaska Marinade Contest" should register early. Booths cost $60 ($40 for nonprofits), and registering by May 7th ensures inclusion in advertising and the event program. Businesses and organizations can get even greater exposure by becoming Festival sponsors.
Organizers are also looking for volunteers to help in a variety of ways.
Keep up with the latest on the Juneau Maritime Festival's needs and opportunities and the day-of-event schedule of activities by visiting juneaumaritimefestival.org, and contact Jessalynn Rintala at 523-2330, jrintala@jedc.org for more information.
