Dear Editor: What a whale of a time!
The 13th annual Sitka WhaleFest was a whirlwind of learning, research, art, food, and celebration. This milestone event was made possible by the contributions and participation of our community.
We are proud that WhaleFest has something for everyone. Guest speakers from St. Lawrence Island to Maui and everywhere in between came to Sitka to share their knowledge of the marine world with hundreds of students, visitors, and community members at the symposium.
The Straley family shared Jan’s story of becoming a preeminent whale researcher and founder of WhaleFest. Participants snorkeled, drew, dissected, and swapped stories at workshops. Athletes of all levels kept an eye out for whales at the fun run. Teams tested their knowledge at Marine Trivia Night, and we enjoyed many artistic expressions of love for the ocean at the Maritime Grind. The WhaleFest market and cafe showcased vendors from both near and far. In short, WhaleFest brings a whole world of knowledge, creativity, and excitement right here to our small community.
We are so grateful to our donors and sponsors: AC Lakeside, Alaska Airlines, Alaska’s Own, Alaska Seaplanes, Allen Marine Tours, Aspen Hotels, Beak Restaurant, Campfire Kitchen, Fireweed Dinners, Harbor Mountain Brewing, Harry Race Pharmacy, North Pacific Research Board, Odom Corp., Rotary Club of Sitka, SEARHC, Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, Sound Sailing, Southeast Resort, Subway, Wayfinder Wealth, WildFlour Café, Rob Allen and Robin Sherman, Lauren Bell and Dane McFadden, George J. Bershen Jr., Craig George’s family in memoriam, Madison Kosma, Steve Lewis and Rachel Myron, Rich and Suzi McClear, Mary and Bob Purvis, Michael Ryan, Linda Waller, and Trish and Dirk White.
Thank you to our enthusiastic attendees, workshop leaders, silent auction donors, marketplace and cafe vendors, Mary Goddard for our new logo, Lauren Wild, John Moran, Ellen Chenoweth, Rosie Cunningham, Emily Pound, Sitka Sentinel, KCAW, Harrigan Centennial Hall staff, and our many volunteers, and hard-working Science Center staff.
Gunalchéesh, and thank you to everyone who made Sitka WhaleFest 2026, ‘‘Generations of Giants: 30 years of Whales, Wisdom, and What Follows,’’ a resounding success.
With gratitude,
Sitka Sound Science Center
