Free public lectures from Columbia River Maritime Museum, port staff and Washington Public Ports Association

 

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Port of Vancouver USA’s popular public lecture series will feature three lectures in March and April. Lectures are free and open to the public, and will be held at the Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main Street, Vancouver.

Doors will open to the public at 5:30 p.m., and port commissioners will be available to chat with attendees before the programs begin.

People interested in attending one or more of the free lectures are encouraged to RSVP online by clicking here, or by calling the port at (360) 823-5297.

 

Lecture Series Details

 

“Discover Treasure in Astoria: the Columbia River Maritime Museum”

Capt. Bruce Jones, Executive Director, Columbia River Maritime Museum and U.S. Coast Guard (Ret)

Thursday, March 6, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Capt. Bruce Jones completed his 30-year U.S. Coast Guard career in command of Sector Columbia River in 2014. He subsequently served as a helicopter pilot for the Columbia River Bar Pilots, served on Astoria City Council and also as Astoria’s mayor. He was deputy director of the Columbia River Maritime Museum before becoming the museum’s executive director, where he is overseeing the museum’s $31.5 million campus transformation project. Capt. Jones will share stories from his varied career and discuss the museum’s mission of collecting, preserving, displaying, and interpreting maritime history—with a focus on the Columbia River and Pacific Northwest. The museum boasts 22,000 objects, 35,000+ photos and a 20,000 volume research library. Construction is underway on a new exhibit and education hall to better share the museum’s collection of artifacts and boats that are currently in storage.

 

 

“Lightning Round: An Update on Port Projects and Activities”

Wednesday, March 19, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Hear a comprehensive overview from Port of Vancouver USA department leadership including Alex Strogen, the port’s Chief Commercial Officer (marine and commercial); Mary Mattix, Director of Environmental Services (environmental); Mike Bomar, Chief Economic Strategy Officer (economic development and Terminal 1); and Kent Cash, Chief Operations Officer (terminal operations).  Each will provide an update on their work including international trade; environmental activities, economic development and the maritime trades academy; Terminal 1 progress; and a look at the port’s capital program, terminal operations and projects underway.

 

 

A view of the Port of Tacoma in Washington State.

“The Fascinating World of Washington State’s Public Ports”

Eric ffitch, Executive Director, Washington Public Ports Association

Thursday, April 3, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Washington state has 75 busy and diverse port districts operating in 33 of 39 counties. Each strives to bring investments and jobs to their communities through the operation of marinas, docks, airports, railroads, incubator spaces, industrial sites and recreational facilities. Eric ffitch will share fascinating facts about our ports, including the fact that ports don’t have to be located on water. Learn the history of why port districts were first created more than 100 years ago. And learn about ports that support the wine industry, handle radioactive materials, operate artisan food centers, move agriculture goods, and handle cruise ships. From apples to auto parts, our ports are unique and interesting!

 

Food and drinks for purchase: Pizza, popcorn, and other concessions will be available for purchase, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. A percentage of food sales will benefit the Fort Vancouver Seafarers Center. Note that parking is free downtown after 6:00 p.m.