KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
The Russian tall ship Pallada is expected to pull into Kodiak Wednesday morning. The best estimate is about 8 a.m., according to Kodiak Harbormaster Marty Owen, who is coordinating the reception of the cadet-laden training ship. There are plans to have the Coast Guard and tugs escort the Pallada to Pier 2 from Puffin Island.
The Pallada is on a North Pacific tour with over 100 cadets on board, and Kodiak, with its long and rich Russian history, is its first stop.
At around 11:30, after the ship clears customs, city Mayor Carolyn Floyd, Coast Guard officials, Saint Innocent’s Academy and other dignitaries will welcome the master of the 354-foot ship, and his officers, to Kodiak. Historian Dawn Black will be part of the reception. She says welcoming ceremonies are important to the Russians.
Public tours of the Pallada, the fastest tall ship in the world, will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday. While in port, the Pallada’s cadets – who’ve been at sea for weeks – will be treated to Kodiak’s many amenities. Organizers are also looking for families or groups to invite some cadets to lunch or dinner while they are in town. Call Angie Schatz at 719-321-7455 to vilunteer.
KMXT will also have a live report from the welcoming ceremonies during our Midday Report.
