Lighthouse event deemed successful despite weather

Although weather played a factor in weekend attendance, organizers called the International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend at the Everett S. Berry Memorial Lighthouse Park a success.
The event was touted as a way to publicize the lighthouse and the Town of Berwick while encouraging preservation of similar structures worldwide.
Bayouland Emergency Amateur Radio Service broadcasted from the Berwick lighthouse all weekend, attempting to make contact with some of the other 400+ radio groups broadcasting from lighthouses around the world.
Jackie Price, BEARS president, said some of the contacts they made were to Spain, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, along with at least 15 states.
The event closed early Saturday because of weather concerns and Sunday because of the weather.
“The weather was terrible. We could barely make out anybody with all the lightning,” Price said of Saturday.
Volunteer Jacki Ackel estimated attendance of about 500 people on Saturday and about 100 on Sunday.
“Overall Saturday, we were overwhelmed with the number of people that came out. There were so many more than we expected. The Berwick Town Market did exceptionally well that day,” Ackel said.
She said visitors frequented the worldwide and U.S. “now talking to” maps, checking where all the pins were.
“Obviously there is quite an interest in ham radio and in our lighthouse. People appreciate the Everett Berry Lighthouse park. They appreciate all the community events we can do at that park,” Ackel said.
Ackel said that every contact the BEARS made received information about their club as well as the lighthouse and the town. They will be mailed information being prepared with the assistance of the Cajun Coast Visitors and Convention Bureau.
Likewise, she said, the club will request information from them.
“It was a successful event. The Town of Berwick genuinely appreciates the BEARS bringing this event to our lighthouse. It was our pleasure to join with them and host this event. We look forward to this becoming an annual event,” Ackel said.