Sea Tow signs sponsors for life-jacket loaner stands

A donation by Anheuser-Busch and wholesaler Katcef Brothers Inc. means that five new Sea Tow Foundation life jacket loaner stands will open this summer at select city and park locations in Annapolis, Md.

The announcement was made at a press conference at the Annapolis City Dock opening National Safe Boating Week, which began Saturday and continues through Friday.

The event marked the official launch of the foundation’s life jacket loaner program, which is sponsored by Sea Tow, the non-profit foundation, Katcef Brothers and Anheuser-Busch.

Katcef Brothers presented the foundation with a $5,000 check toward the new program at the press conference.

“Boating is a major industry in the Chesapeake Bay region, so the promotion of water safety is a primary priority and responsibility for us,” Katcef Brothers president Neal Katcef said in a statement.

Katcef Brothers has been an Annapolis Anheuser-Busch distributor for more than 80 years.

Each loaner stand will be stocked with life jackets that boaters can borrow free for the day.

“We are proud to support the Sea Tow Foundation and its life jacket loaner program, which has already impacted the lives of thousands of people. By wearing life jackets and designating a sober skipper we can all help ensure even more boaters and passengers enjoy their time on the water safely,” said Carol Huebner, Northeast region director for corporate social responsibility at Anheuser-Busch.

The five new loaner stands will be located throughout Anne Arundel County.

Since 2008 the foundation has distributed nearly 22,000 life jackets to boaters across the country. They have been purchased with grant money from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, as administered by the Coast Guard, and through individual and corporate donations.