Next in the Sanctuary Lecture Series is “The Great Lakes, its Lakers, and the Lake Carriers’ Association,” to be held at 7 p.m. Aug. 20 at Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for this free presentation at 500 W. Fletcher St.

Those interested in the maritime industry and commerce in the Great Lakes are welcome to attend the latest sanctuary lecture.

Join Tom Rayburn, director of environmental and regulatory affairs for the Lake Carriers’ Association, and learn about the intertwined history of the Great Lakes and maritime industries. Hear how it started, why it looks like it does today, and the challenges and successes navigating the ecology, economy, and maritime culture of the Great Lakes.

With the Lake Carriers’ Association, Rayburn works on a wide range of projects supporting commercial maritime in the Great Lakes, including navigation, ice breaking, infrastructure (including the new large lock at the Soo), environmental compliance, and safety. He has 30 years of experience in environmental and engineering consulting and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Geosciences from Purdue University.