After many years of dedicated service, core organizers of Sea Fair have passed the torch to a new group of volunteers.
Powell River Sea Fair Society held its annual general meeting last month at the Royal Canadian Legion. Carol Hamilton, Verna Rekve, Darlene Rekve, Dave McLennan and Bill Hopkins stepped down from the board of directors and welcomed new faces to the table. The board now includes Jenny Garden as president, Eddie Romagnoli as vice-president, secretary Mara Decker, treasurer Loretta Askgaard, and directors Daniel Richard, Jim Baron, Fred Van Samang, Cory Wiebe and Bob Poore.
“We are thrilled to continue the legacy left by the former board of directors,” said Garden. “Hundreds of volunteer hours are invested each year to make this three-day community festival happen and the new directors pledge to continue the work with the same dedication and community spirit modelled by the former board.”
A Powell River tradition since 1963, Sea Fair is primed to grow and add new and exciting features to its lineup.
“We are having a blast discussing new ideas on how to grow the already popular event,” said Romagnoli. “We are adding ideas around the parade, fairway, food offerings and are discussing ways to attract new vendors, entertainment, artisans and tourists alike.”
Sea Fair draws the community together, added Garden. “Sea Fair is a festival that allows Powell River residents to celebrate as a community and can act as a powerful showcase of all things Powell River,” she said. “It is an opportunity for local musicians, artists, crafters and vendors to showcase their local talents.”
One of the immediate priorities identified by the new Sea Fair board is to engage community groups and individuals early to incorporate new ideas, form partnerships and allow ample time for planning.
“We did a lot of work last year to boost Sea Fair’s online presence with a new website and Facebook page to engage with the public,” said Garden. “We also want to open up the lines of communication with the community and are interested in hearing people’s ideas and suggestions for next year.”
The society will hold a meeting open to anyone who wishes to provide ideas, brainstorm and make new connections. The meeting will take place at 7:30 pm on Thursday, November 21, in the Elm Room at Powell River Recreation Complex. Memberships will be available at $5 for those who wish to support the society.
“We are a city surrounded by nature with a vibrant community that offers a lifestyle worth showcasing. Let’s give visitors a reason to come and stay,” added Romagnoli.
Next year, Sea Fair takes place July 25 through 27. For more information readers can email [email protected].
