HOMER, Alaska — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Hickory will hosting their annual Haunted Hickory food drive Thursday, Oct. 30.
Attendees are encouraged to bring two nonperishable food items per person. These food items are donated to a local charity to help meet the upcoming holiday demands.
The ship will be open at two separate times for different age ranges and guests with different fright levels. From 4-5 pm the ship will be open for children; from 6-10pm, the ship will be open for teenagers and adults who seek more intense thrills. The 6-10pm session is not recommended for children under 13 years of age or those that frighten easily.
The Coast Guard Cutter Hickory is a working vessel and is not Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant. There are many steep staircases and tripping hazards throughout the ship. Moderate physical exertion is required to safely transit the vessel. Persons appearing to be under the influence of alcohol will not be admitted. No weapons are permitted. Guests should dress warmly as the staging area for the tour will be on the pier.
The annual event, which dates back to when the Coast Guard Cutter Sedge was homeported in Homer, is sponsored by the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Hickory each year around Halloween. Since its origin, it has risen in size and popularity. The crew uses it as an opportunity to give back to the local community and collect food for the needy. Donations have risen steadily each year with more than 2,000 pounds of food donated in 2013.
Annual Haunted Hickory
Date: Thursday, Oct. 30.
Where: USCGC HICKORY, Coast Guard Pier, Homer Spit.
When: 4-5 p.m. for younger children; 6-10 p.m. for teens and adults
Suggested Donation: Two nonperishable food items per person
Special notes:
- CGC HICKORY is a working vessel and is not ADA compliant. Those who have difficulty navigating a staircase without assistance will not be admitted.
- Do not consume alcohol prior to attending; no person appearing to be under the influence of alcohol will be admitted.
- Leave knives and other weapons at home.
- Dress for waiting in the weather on the pier.
