Tag Archives: Survival Suit Races

Newport Fishermen’s Wives work to show up whenever, or wherever, their community needs them

On a windy wet Saturday in January, the Newport Fishermen’s Wives end their annual meeting at Mo’s Seafood and Chowder on the bayfront and welcome visitors. As servers deliver tureens of clam chowder and platters of thick buttery toast, the group members stand to introduce themselves. Then, from the far end of the table, Denise Porter rises. “I started with the Fishermen’s Wives five years ago when my husband passed away,” Porter begins, noting that the anniversary of the capsizing that took Josh Porter’s life was just three days away. “First, I want to say I wouldn’t be standing here if it weren’t for you,” Porter says. “You walked me through everything … This is my passion. This organization is amazing.”  Founded in the 1970s, the Newport Fishermen’s Wives today is the public face of the fishing community, a band of women known for showing up wherever needed, whether it be serving casseroles at a funeral, providing safety gear for the fleet or helping a family make ends meet. Photos, more, >>click to read<< 20:46

31st annual Fishermen’s Fall Festival coming up Sept. 21

The yearly festival celebrates the return of the North Pacific fishing fleet to the terminal, and benefits the Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial Foundation. It’s a family-friendly event, with several free hands-on, fishing-themed art projects such as wooden boat building. Admission to the festival is free, but proceeds from all paid activities will go to the foundation to assist families of fishers lost at sea. Some of the highlights include the Salmon BBQ, Reptile Man (happening at noon on the main stage), Salmon Fillet Contest, Survival Suit Races, and photo opportunities of the F/V Brenna A from The Deadliest Catch TV show. >click to read, with schedule and previous event photos< 16:03