Port hosts Thor Fest
The Duluth Seaway Port Authority hosted its second Thor Fest celebration in July. This bi-national event brought together professionals, commodity handlers, governmental agencies, manufacturers and carriers, providing information and countless networking opportunities at the Head of the Lakes.

“Our goal is to have a first class maritime event that also offers additional activities to allow participants to meet colleagues and learn about the Port, the Great Lakes and the Seaway system,” said Port Director Adolph Ojard.

This year’s Thor Fest included panel discussions covering new agricultural products and forest products transportation. The keynote speaker was David Brunner, director of special funds for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. He provided participants with information on trading carbon credits.

Activities included a complimentary early-bird reception at the Hammond Steak House, golf at the Northland Country Club, charter fishing on Lake Superior, sightseeing at Canal Park and downtown Duluth, a Thor “Feast” dinner and a breakfast harbor excursion on the Vista Queen narrated by former Port Director Davis Helberg.
 
Jennie Richardson, market development specialist for the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation, and Ron Johnson, the Port Authority’s trade development director, netted keepers on a Thor Fest fishing expedition.
Scott Hilleren (left) of the Guthrie-Hubner, Inc., vessel agency and Gary Nicholson, president of Lake Superior Warehousing Co., Inc., welcomed participants to their early-bird reception.
Port Commissioner Janet Nelson shares some time with Commissioner Gene Hugoson, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, while on the Thor Fest harbor tour.