Peninsula's 'big 3' industries to receive deserved recognition

State economists say one of the greatest strengths of the Kenai Peninsula's economy is its diversity -- oil and gas, commercial fishing, sports fishing, tourism, timber, retail, plus a broad-based public sector.

That diversity will be celebrated during Industry Appreciation Day from noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturday at the Kenai park strip.

Industry Appreciation Day will include food, music, drawings and entertainment for the entire family. It also will honor individuals and businesses within the commercial fishing and oil and gas industries.

As remarkable as the diversity of the peninsula's economy is the effort of the various industries, which often have competing and conflicting interests, to work together to resolve a multitude of issues. The fact that the oil and gas industry and the commercial fishing industry have existed -- even thrived -- side by side in Cook Inlet for decades makes a powerful statement about the uniqueness of the peninsula's economy and the men and women who fuel it.

The diversity of the peninsula's economy not only makes living here interesting, but it also enables the peninsula to weather economic storms a little more easily than other parts of the state.

Industry Appreciation Day is a great way to recognize and say "thanks" to the various industries and workers who have helped mold the unique character of the Kenai Peninsula.