Tuesday, 15 November 2011

OK, driver's license, check. Boarding pass, check. Hotel confirmation number, check. Laptop and carry-on bag, check — oh, hi! Sorry, just running down my travel checklist as I prepare to head to Seattle tomorrow for Pacific Marine Expo at the CenturyLink Field Event Center, Nov. 17–19.

You are going, right? I mean it's only the West Coast's largest commercial marine trade show, presented by National Fisherman and our sister publication, WorkBoat magazine. Where else can you find such a comprehensive display of gear, services, suppliers and new products, plus a slate of timely, interesting and informative conference sessions?

Then there's the schedule of special offerings such as the Author's Corner and Bookstore, the daily demonstration of handcrafted model working vessels, and the annual Fisherman of the Year contest. We'll celebrate our 2011 Highliner Award winners, Bill Webber Jr. of Cordova, Alaska, Dan Falvey of Sitka, Alaska, and Larry Collins, of San Francisco for their extraordinary contributions to the commercial fishing industry. And there's a new addition, Boatyard Day, in which, NF and WorkBoat celebrate the boatbuilding industry with a series of special events.

Whew! I'm exhausted just thinking about it. No doubt at the end of the day, you'll want to relax with your friends during Happy Hour in the Beer Garden. And football fans, if you need an extra reason to enjoy a refreshing beverage or two, how about the chance each day to win tickets to the Sunday, Nov. 27 Seattle Seahawks-Washington Redskins game? Did I mention winning tickets will be drawn by a Seahawks cheerleader who'll be available for autographs?

Just remember to take a few minutes to visit the NF booth at the show and say hi to your humble magazine editors. Now, did I pack the Airborne in my carry-on?