Harbormaster of the Year
Employee of the Year
Life Member
Honorary Member
Golden Anchor
Past Harbormaster of the Year Awards
2022
Layla Jandt-Pederson, Harbormaster, City of Seldovia On behalf of the City of Seldovia, thank you for the opportunity to raise up Layla Jandt-Pedersen through AAHPA’s 2022 Harbormaster of the Year Award. Mrs. Jandt-Pedersen has been on the City of Seldovia’s team since 2006. She joined first as a ferry line handler until she was recruited by the city manager for the harbormaster position in 2010. Since then, Layla has become an integral part of the City’s leadership team, serving in a variety of capacities including interim co-city manager, public works and maintenance support, and most recently as the back-up water operator to the City’s water treatment plant.In small cities, staff often fulfill multiple roles. Harbormaster Jandt-Pedersen also manages the City’s Boat Haul Out Storage Yard and consistently goes above and beyond for the City with projects and tasks like building remodels, collecting fees for camping and ensuring the campgrounds are maintained, managing the City’s online auction sales and helping administer annual public surplus auctions, regularly switching out network hard drives to enhance the city’s cybersecurity, and caring for the Seldovia Cemetery while helping to receive and administer grants for the cemetery’s continued maintenance. Her municipal leadership extends beyond the quantitative through her customer service, creativity, and love for Seldovia. Whenever Layla is getting ready to leave a meeting, she will say to you at the very end “just holler if you need anything.” Layla has proven she is a team player, dedicated to the public, and also exemplifies the honor and integrity it takes to be a harbormaster in Alaska. She is the opposite of a fairweather friend; through her actions and experience she demonstrates dedication and commitment to her community. The city and mariners of Seldovia and even the City of Homer can attest – if her help is needed, she is there no matter the weather. In gratitude, Rachel Friedlander, City Manager
2021
Lucas Stotts, Harbormaster of Nome, Alaska, hereby honored as the 2021 Harbormaster of the Year by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Lucas started with the Port of Nome in 2011 as the Harbormaster Assistant, just when the recreational gold mining frenzy was exploding. This intense and rapid increase in homeported users prompted chaos and conflict, but fortunately, Lucas used his training, patience, and disarming smile to quickly diffuse most situations. His actions quickly made him popular among the users, and an asset to the City. After becoming Harbormaster in 2013, Lucas was faced with a similar situation with the Port’s two docks being in high demand and creating a backlog of anchored vessels, which he resolved by continuous coordination, predicting conflicts, adjusting schedules, and finding creative options until construction of a third dock in 2015 somewhat eased the pressure. Nearly all of the commercial shippers, research captains and homeported users have commented on how effective Lucas is in his position, and the number of complex issues he’s helped to resolve. One will generally find Lucas putting in long hours, returning later in the evening to check an operation, monitor a difficult barge offload, or ensure the prior user is on schedule so as not to delay the next vessel. For these accomplishments and more, as well as his long-time support and active engagement with the AAHPA, it is with great pleasure that the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators recognizes Lucas as AAHPA’s 2021 Harbormaster of the Year.
2019
Greg Meissner, Harbormaster of Wrangell, Alaska, is hereby honored as the 2019 Harbormaster of the Year by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Greg started his career with the Port & Harbor Department in 1998 as a Harbor Maintenance & Security staff member, and just three years later in 2001 was promoted to Harbormaster. Greg is responsible for managing the operations and maintenance of three harbors with 600 slips, the City Dock accommodating vessels roughly 950 feet long, a summer float system, the Wrangell Marine Service Center, a barge landing ramp, and all of the associated upland facilities and equipment. Greg and his crew work until there is a solution and the project is finished. He is an ambassador for Wrangell, representing the community with excitement and support. In his community, Greg is a tireless volunteer donating hundreds of hours each year for the Mariners Memorial, the 4th of July, and countless other important needs. In addition, Greg has served on the AAHPA Board of Directors with experience and candid input on all matters. His integrity and concern for the well-being of harbors throughout Alaska is evident in all that he has done for the AAHPA. It is with great pleasure that the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators recognizes Greg for these accomplishments as AAHPA’s 2019 Harbormaster of the Year.
2018
Norm Regis, Harbormaster for the City of Seward, is hereby honored as the 2018 Harbormaster of the Year by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. In his time as Harbormaster, Norm has been a continual force of positive change by striving to improve crucial systems, infrastructure, and day to day functions in both the Harbor and Seward Marine Industrial Center. These welcomed changes have brought new investors, increased public interest, and brought record numbers of personal and commercial boaters to the Seward area. Under Norm’s watch the Seward Harbor and Marine Industrial Center have seen improvements to the Travelift, completion of the breakwater, a heated wash down pad, launch ramp improvements, improved handicap accessibility, and improved fish cleaning stations to name a few. Every project that comes across Norm’s desk is picked apart to save any penny that can be found. From utilizing rocks in Seward’s quarry to fabricating new components in-house, he finds solutions from other projects and continually manages them to be done in a manner that benefits the Harbor and the Community of Seward. As a Board member with the AAHPA and with his understanding of the Municipal Harbor Matching Grant program, he has been able to collaborate with other harbormasters and port executives on projects to help grow the maritime industry for Seward and Alaska’s future. It is with great pleasure that the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators recognizes Norm for these accomplishments as AAHPA’s 2018 Harbormaster of the Year.
Jean Barrett, Harbormaster for the City of Dillingham, is hereby honored as the 2018 Harbormaster of the Year by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Bristol Bay and Dillingham have seen near record activity the past two years which translates to a significant increase in harbor usage. Every year, Jean works with vessel captains and processors to make sure each is exceptionally supported through the fishing seasons. He is currently working with the federal delegation on a much needed harbor upgrade, and is gaining traction and support. His efforts have been instrumental in keeping the city’s ice machine operational, and he is personally refurbishing the lost fishermen memorial. Jean has taken on the job of Public Works Director as well. He is able to direct the dock and harbor operations successfully while also managing the streets, water and sewer, landfill, and other public works needs for Dillingham. Jean’s service to the citizens of Dillingham and the harbor community do not stop with Harbormaster and Public Works Director. He volunteers to coach local youth, serves as the Vice Chair on the Board of the local native village corporation, mentors the interns he receives at the Harbor annually to help them grow and learn, and he is member of the AAHPA Board of Directors. It is with great pleasure that the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators recognizes Jean for these accomplishments as AAHPA’s 2018 Harbormaster of the Year.
2017
David Borg, Harbormaster for the City and Borough of Juneau, is hereby honored as the 2017 Harbormaster of the Year by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. David has distinguished himself as a leader, mentor, and innovator. Always seeking to improve on past practices, and following the extensive rebuilding of three major facilities in 2017 totaling nearly $80 million, he has been instrumental in organizing these new facilities into polished and efficient operations. As the CBJ Facility Security Officer, he ensured the completed new cruise ship berths project provided additional mooring capacity for commercial fishing vessels, charter vessels, and yachts consistent with federal regulations. David has greatly enhanced the public’s experience at Statter Harbor through judicious use of limited uplands and segregation of the various user groups. He has been active in weeding out abandoned a nd derelict vessels in each of the four harbors he oversees. Under his guidance and tenacity, CBJ is poised to be the next harbor to be recognized as an Alaska Clean Harbors recipient. Demonstrating leadership second to none, he implemented difficult but necessary personnel changes to his staff resulting in increased morale throughout. It is with great pleasure that the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators recognizes David for these accomplishments as AAHPA’s 2017 Harbormaster of the Year.
2016
Ketchikan Port & Harbors Director Steve Corporon is honored as the 2016 Harbormaster of the Year by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Nominated by the City of Ketchikan for exemplary service as a highly valued upper level management leader and for being tireless in the pursuit of infrastructure improvement, Steve has been instrumental in securing funding for many port & harbors projects. Skillfully executing multi-million dollar Port of Ketchikan projects in an efficient and effective manner, he adeptly led emergency repairs to a cruise ship dock which was significantly damaged in a mishap. Steve expertly contracted the engineering and construction efforts to reopen the facilities within 30 days of the incident. His dedication to the City of Ketchikan and its citizens was clearly demonstrated as Steve served, in addition to his Port & Harbors responsibilities, as the acting Public Works Director for over one year. While serving as Public Works Director, he oversaw one of the largest city infrastructure projects ever constructed with the Peace Health Ketchikan Medical Center Addition and Alterations Project. Steve has participated on the AAHPA Board since 2007 and served as President from 2009 through 2013. He advocated for and spearheaded the establishment of AAHPA scholarships for graduating high school senior pursuing marine-related vocations. A consummate professional, Steve strives to provide quality services to the public and has mentored numerous harbormasters throughout the State. It is with great pleasure that the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators recognize Steve as the 2016 Harbormaster of the Year.
2013
Homer Port and Harbor Director Bryan Hawkins is hereby recognized as Harbormaster of the year 2013 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Bryan has been a leader in addressing issues that affect all ports and harbors in Alaska, including but not limited to, derelict vessels and promoting and implementing the Clean Harbors Program. Bryan has initiated an outreach and marketing program by forming partnerships with the Home Chamber of Commerce and the Homer Marine Trades Association. He has worked aggressively to open up new opportunities and services for marine businesses including the promotion of new barge haul-out and mooring facilities. His efforts have had a positive effect on the local economy and the Port & Harbor Enterprise Fund. Bryan has reduced energy costs by taking a variety of steps to reduce consumption and increase efficiency. He has dramatically improved customer service and has exhibited exemplary supervisory skills, leading by example. He establishes clear expectations and sets the performance bar high. His staff is happy, motivated and very productive. The many contributions Bryan has made to Alaskan Ports and Harbors is exceptional and has earned him the utmost esteem of his peers.
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
Past Employee of the Year Awards
2022
Port Operations Coordinator, Craig Bisson, is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators (AAHPA) employee of the year for the City of Ketchikan for 2022. Despite Mr. Bisson’s relatively brief tenure on staff – having only joined our Team in March of this year - he readily accomplished what would easily have taken a year to orchestrate. Overcoming a two-year hiatus in Port operations, Craig’s leadership proved instrumental in reestablishing critical Port Security Teams in support of the City’s Coast Guard approved Facility Security Plan (FSP). As a result, he was able to skillfully implement and secure Coast Guard approval for long-overdue amendments that negated future/negative impacts to Port operations. Additionally, despite nationwide shortages in available personnel, he was able to successfully identify, interview, process and train over fifty seasonal personnel in safety, security and pedestrian management practices – all within a six week period – to provide “just in time” delivery for the first ship arrival of 2022. From a Port Management perspective, Craig worked closely with Cruise Line Agencies of Alaska to ensure we fulfilled our commitments to the community through the equitable distribution of passengers across the Port, thereby providing local merchants with enhanced opportunities to recoup losses accrued over recent years. This last feat, required Mr. Bisson to draw upon his extensive experience as a former Alaska Marine Highway System dispatcher, to develop multiple contingency plans to accommodate numerous last-minute logistical challenges spurred on by competing dockside transportation needs originating off the Port. These efforts set the stage for safe/secure passenger operations under regularly changing conditions. In summary, Craig has exemplified the true spirit of teamwork and uncompromised ethics while playing a vital role in the success of the Port, and is truly worthy of recognition by the AAHPA as the Ketchikan Port and Harbors Employee of the Year for 2022.
Harbor Officer, Patrick Davis, is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for the City and Borough of Juneau for 2022. Patrick’s efforts and attitude have been positively observed by supervisors and harbor patrons alike, resulting in accolades from many. In the transition from seasonal operations, your supervisor was impressed that you had taken the initiative to start preparations on your own accord. Leveraging your storehouse of knowledge and 10 plus years of experience, you have developed a comprehensive list and commenced task execution without prompting. Your efforts enabled other staff to focus on areas of preparation yet to be completed. During the harsh Alaska winter, you are often the first through the door and get straight to work, setting the tempo for the rest of the crew. You draw upon your expertise to prioritize snow removal routes and problem areas. Excelling in top-notch customer service and willingness to help others you typically go the extra mile to assist. On April 5th, while working in the parking lot you heard calls for help coming from down in the harbor, upon arriving on scene, you realized that a harbor patron had collapsed and was unconscious of cardiac event. The Good Samaritan calling for help was unsure of what medical procedure to take; however, you quickly took control and determined that CPR was the correct course of action. Instructing the Good Samaritan to call 911, you began CPR and after several rounds the patient began to regain consciousness. The patient was transported to Anchorage for surgery and happily fully recovered in Juneau. According to the first responders, your quick actions are undoubtedly the reason that this man is alive today. Your efforts are an integral part of advancing Docks and Harbors achieve its vision to be: the Southeast Alaska maritime center of excellence. It is with great pleasure to recognize you as the Juneau Docks & Harbors Employee of the Year for 2022.
2021
Customer Service Representative May Cagiuat, is hereby named the 2021 Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators Employee of the Year for Ketchikan. May joined the department in 2017, and has proven herself to be an invaluable addition to the Harbor Department. She has endeavored to streamline the seasonal electric meter transfers, the Winter Reserved Moorage program, and the Reserved Moorage waitlist application process. May works diligently with Harbormasters to make sure that available stalls are offered out as quickly as possible, helping us maintain a near 100% occupancy of reserved moorage stalls. Her meticulous attention to detail in maintaining records has helped immensely in tracking customer data for both the Port users and Harbor users. She is a public facing employee who dedicated herself to providing excellent Customer Service through the challenges of the pandemic. She approaches her work with a positive attitude and smile that is appreciated by coworkers and customers alike. May is a great co-worker in every sense, and understands how to be a team player. Her dedicated and professional service is commendable and truly worth of recognition by the AAHPA members as the Ketchikan Port and Harbors Employee of the Year for 2021.
Port Operations Supervisor Scott Hinton, is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for the City and Borough of Juneau for 2021. A casualty of the pandemic was that the 2021 large cruise ship season remained uncertain until early July. As the Port Operations Supervisor, Scott’s entire season hinged on these ever-changing plans for the cruise ships. The last large cruise ship to call upon Juneau was in October 2019. Once plans unfolded for an abbreviated season to begin on July 23rd, Scott sprang into action to awaken the Port of Juneau from a nearly 22-month hibernation. Due to the lack of ships and therefore, revenue, Scott was operating the Port with just a skeleton crew of employees. After being shut down for nearly two years there was an extensive list of tasks that needed to be executed ahead of the first vessel visit. Scott quickly developed a prioritized worklist and leveraged your limited staff to start the cumbersome process of preparing the Port for the arrival of the first cruise ship. Drawing upon finely honed organizational skills, Scott expertly scheduled staff to meet the Coast Guard security responsibilities and ensured a predictable and fair rotation. Feedback from customers has been nothing but complimentary of you, your staff, and our facilities. This speaks volumes to your ability to handle multiple priorities without losing efficiency or effectiveness. Scott is an outstanding teammate, leader, and a major asset to the department, and he is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Juneau Docks & Harbors Employee of the Year for 2021.
Assistant Harbormaster, Bill Bousley, is hereby commended for his service to the Ketchikan Port & Harbors Department. Bill’s deep ties to the community enabled him to relate well to harbor users who may otherwise have escalated their complaints, and his lifelong work experiences served him well in his 12 years as an Assistant Harbormaster. His knowledge, experience and advice have all helped to improve the operation and management of the Ketchikan harbors. As he begins his well-earned retirement, he should know that his council, wisdom and genial wit will be missed. We wish him fair winds, following seas, and nothing but the best for the future.
2019
The entire maintenance staff, including full-time workers Nicholas Burns and Michael Pattison and temporary workers Joshua Hahn and John Peterson, are hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employees of the year for Ketchikan for 2019. Working as a team they performed numerous large capital projects in-house including rebuilding a forty-foot-long section of the Bar Harbor South ramp 2 trestle, rebuilding over 480 feet of Thomas Basin float 1 and fabrication of 73 concrete bases and the subsequent installation of 51 bollards, 7 benches and 8 trash cans on the cruise ship docks. These three projects alone saved the City an estimated $300,000 in construction costs if the projects had been performed by contractors and were accomplished in addition to their regular duties maintaining four cruise ship berths, six small boat harbors with over 1,100 slips and three double lane launch ramps. The entire team is a valuable unit of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Ketchikan Port & Harbors Employees of the Year for 2019.
Harbor Officer John Forchemer is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for the City and Borough of Juneau for 2019. John distinguishes himself with tireless dedication to training the Statter Harbor seasonal staff and efforts in the repair of the storm damaged Statter Harbor breakwater. He took a personal interest in the professional development of seasonal staff and quickly brought them up to speed, ensuring proficiency in their duties, with no loss of productivity of his own assigned responsibilities. Following significant damage to the Statter breakwater in April, John expertly oversaw additional personnel and regular Docks and Harbors employees, resulting in the completion of extensive repairs in just over three days. John’s positive, can-do attitude and dedication enable this project to be completed safely and efficiently. John is a proven outstanding teammate and a major asset to the Enterprise, and he is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Juneau Docks & Harbors Employee of the Year for 2019.
Harbor Officer II Captain Mike Lowe is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for the City of Homer for 2019. Mike is a certified Emergency Trauma Technician responder, is certified in marine firefighting, and holds a USCG 6-pack ton masters license. Mike sees the strength and value of the team, and uses his energy and patience to mentor new staff to help them grow their skills. He leads by example to forward that long tradition of providing a sheltered and safe harbor for the vessels and people that depend on it. On May 26, 2019, while on-duty, Mike responded to a USCG Pan-Pan notifying mariners of an overturned skiff with four people in the water. On-site, Mike removed three people from the water, worked with other good Samaritan vessels to transfer all patients safely to a vessel with a warm cabin, and once all patients were transferred Officer Low put a line on one of the good Samaritan vessels that had lost power and towed her to the safety of the harbor. The words “Safe Harbor” came to be standard because of the dedication of our ports and harbors to provide a safe and protected shelter from storms and the sea. Mike demonstrates this long tradition of dedication in his work and interactions with harbor users every day. Mike Lowe has truly established himself as an exceptional member of our department and he is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members Homer Harbor’s Employee of the Year for 2019.
2018
Administrative Assistant Ed Tagaban is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators Employee of the Year for Petersburg for 2018. In the spring of 2000 Ed joined the Department and right from the start he challenged the good ol’ boy system and proceeded to implement changes such as making the Harbor Office a no smoking environment and installing a computerized point-of-sale system. With skill and humor he took on the challenge of teaching an aging staff the skills associated with operating a computer system. Ed is an exceptional employee and co-worker, and he is the backbone of the Petersburg Harbor team. He gives sound advice to his superiors, to fellow staff, and to customers seeking local knowledge. Ed assists management by keeping excellent records and a running tally of project plans that aide in budget development. Among Ed’s many accomplishments, he worked to secure Homeland Security funding and designed and oversaw the installation of an all-weather outdoor camera system that revolutionized security within the Petersburg Harbor. Many current AAHPA members met Eddie at the 2017 annual conference in Petersburg and appreciated his efforts at organizing and hosting that great event. Ed Tagaban has truly established himself as an exceptional member of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Petersburg Port & Harbor Employee of the Year.
Deputy Harbormaster Matthew Creswell is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators Employee of the Year for the City and Borough of Juneau Docks & Harbors for 2018. Mr. Creswell’s arrival to the team marked a watershed event enabling the department to accomplish much since his first day in December 2015. In addition to being highly skilled in marine and heavy equipment operations, he has brought energy, ideas and commonsense to ALL of the Docks & Harbor offices. Matt is the definition of a “force multiplier” through his outstanding ability to cultivate effective working partnerships with other departments in achieving our goals. His effort in leading Docks & Harbors to achieve Alaska Clean Harbor certification is nothing less than amazing. Matt was the catalyst within his peers and amongst the harbor patrons promoting the benefits of a voluntary program to implement best management practices to prevent pollution, reduce waste, reduce costs, and promote clean boating. Matt took on an unenviable role of hosting multiple harbor live-aboard meetings. The efforts have enabled Docks & Harbors to positively engage with the live-aboard community. He has painstakingly listened to the needs of our customers, and with the patience of Job, has made improvements to both the physical plant and how the department interacts with the human-nature side of our patrons. Matt is a highly skilled, innovative, and valued Harbor employee. Matthew Creswell has truly established himself as an exceptional member of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Juneau Docks & Harbors Employee of the Year.
Administrative Supervisor Lisa Ellington is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators Employee of the Year for the City of Homer Port & Harbor for 2018. Lisa began working for the Port & Harbor in 2006, and was promoted to Administrative Supervisor in 2010. Homer’s Admin department is often the first point of contact for our customers, and Lisa’s professional, calm, and concise presence makes even the grumpiest customer, if not smile, at least nod in understanding, and creates a supported and tranquil environment for staff. Her depth of knowledge is expansive. Lisa’s work on Homer’s new management software program this past year is just another example of her dedication to the Department’s mission of customer service. The new software is now up and running, thanks to Lisa’s hundreds of hours of painstakingly detailed work behind the scenes helping to develop a system that is tailored to our needs. She coordinated with the software developer, harbor operations, and City IT to plan for a smooth transition on launch day. The results were that the Department transitioned the whole system over in JUNE and customers only noticed newly formatted bills with better information – no interruption in service! Pretty amazing given the scope of work that was undertaken. For the past two years, Lisa has also worked to help organize the Administrative Breakout Day for the AAHPA conference to share, exchange, and gain new knowledge, giving the front-line staff from our organizations a place and time during the conference with an administrative-focused agenda. Lisa Ellington has truly established herself as an exceptional member of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Homer Harbor Employee of the Year.
Administrative Assistant Angel Holbrook, is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for Ketchikan for 2018. Since being hired in 2017 she has been a whirlwind of activity and organization. She overhauled the filing system and created a user manual for her multitude of job functions and cross trained the customer service representatives on an array of office procedures. She researched and purchased new weather proof tablets for use by the Harbormasters. She also was instrumental in the planning and implementation of a major revision to the reserved moorage billing procedures and cycle and in the preparation of the annual budgets for both the Port and the Harbors. Ms. LaDuke has established herself as a true team player who treats both coworkers and customers fairly and with respect and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Ketchikan Port and Harbors Employee of the Year.
2017
Deputy Harbormaster Charles Hackett is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators Employee of the Year for Sitka for 2017. Chuck has been working for the Sitka Harbor system for thirteen years. Chuck’s upbeat and positive attitude brings harmony to the workplace. Chuck is also respected by his peers and the harbor community. Chuck manages the reserved moorage program for yachts, which brings in over $100,000 of revenue annually from this particular user group. October 15th of 2015, Sitka Harbors was awarded the Alaska Clean Harbors Certification. Chuck spent endless hours on this certification process. Chuck Hackett has truly established himself as an exceptional member of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Sitka’s Port & Harbors Employee of the Year.
Deputy Harbormaster Matt Clarke is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators Employee of the Year for Homer for 2017. Over the past sixteen years he has strived to improve the Operation Department’s ability to serve customer needs safely and efficiently. As Deputy Harbormaster, Matt’s duties include: implementation of Facility Security requirements and Alaska Clean Harbors plan, supervising six 24/7 Harbor Officers as well as hiring and supervising six part-time seasonal employees, filling in shifts when short of staff, and planning and implementing training for emergency trauma technicians and harbor officers. During the past year, Matt has been an exemplary asset to the harbor: he delegated and oversaw the harbor officers as they completed a line-by-line update to the Harbor Officer’s Standard Operating Procedures handbook, he responded to a boat fire on December 15, 2016, removing a neighboring vessel and preventing a multi-vessel fire, and he now chairs the City’s Employee Committee after serving as the Port and Harbor’s representative for the past four years. Matt is very active in the community by annual co-teaching a small boat handling class, volunteering for special projects around town that benefit families, facilitating and then actually competing in some of the fun runs, and in the past year has assisted with a community ‘Boat House Pavilion’ project. Matt Clarke has truly established himself as an exceptional member of the City of Homer’s Port and Harbor Department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Homer’s Port & Harbor Employee of the Year.
Assistant Harbormaster James Wilson is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for Ketchikan for 2017. Mr. Wilson was the Assistant Harbormaster responsible for managing the reserved moorage waitlist program for all six harbors, judiciously monitoring both requests and available stalls to maintain 100% occupancy rates. He also did an excellent job on several occasions raising small vessels that had sunk during overnight storms and was instrumental in the timely moving of several vessels away from a vessel on fire, preventing additional damage to the vessels and the harbor. In addition to his harbormaster duties, Mr. Wilson performed extensive maintenance on the department’s aluminum work skiff including bearing replacement and repairs to the lower unit as well as grinding, priming and painting the bottom of the M/V Hamilton, the department’s primary patrol vessel. Based on his overall performance he was selected to be the Acting Director for a week when both the Director and Senior Assistant Harbormaster were out of town and the Port Operations position was vacant. Mr. Wilson has truly established himself as a team player and valuable member of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Ketchikan Port & Harbors Employee of the Year for 2017.
Administrative Assistant III Jennifer Shinn is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for Juneau for 2017. Jennifer is a consummate professional and the Swiss Army knife of the administrative staff, performing regular and irregular tasks with little to no supervision. Jennifer corresponded precisely with customers requesting advanced reservations leading to a remarkably smooth 2017 summer operational season. Jennifer’s invaluable input for regulation changes resulted in the establishment of a more uniform reservation policy for Statter harbor Breakwater, IVF, PFO Float, and the ICT in serving our patrons. These changes have proven to be highly effective by nearly doubling IVF and Statter Harbor revenues since 2014. Jennifer has completed yeomen work in scheduling meetings, completing agendas, compiling requested data, updating website information, posting minutes, making meeting announcement fliers, and haranguing Board members to determine quorum. She tracked all of the cruise ship billing and numerous shore-side permit holders serving the million passengers embarking Juneau – all with a cheerful and upbeat persona. Jennifer has embraced customer services and has worked tirelessly to improve the Docks & Harbors brand. She independently developed an online and hard copy customer service survey, providing a systematic process to collect feedback and valuable information from customers. With her attention to detail and “you can figure this out” attitude, Jennifer guided the Harbor administration operations through a flawless summer. Jennifer is a proven outstanding teammate, a major asset to the department and most deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Juneau Port & Harbors Employee of the Year for 2017.
2016
Ms. Ashley Bruce is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year 2016 for the City & Borough of Juneau. Ashley distinguished herself by providing customer service that is as “second to none”. Her duties as an Administrative Assistant have morphed into the moorage coordinator at the Intermediate Vessel Float. Managing this highly desired location for pocket cruise ships, high end yachts and commercial fishing vessels proves to be a very dynamic task, requiring the coordination of over 200 reservations. In 2016, the Port of Juneau developed an additional 400 feet of moorage for utilization, with no plan on how to effectively utilize the moorage, Ashley took the initiative to develop concepts to manage the moorage as overflow and commercial fishing vessel moorage. Showing accomplished organizational ability, she tracks of an ever-changing list of vessels calling on our facilities and consistently manages to meet their needs even though the challenges sometimes appear to be insurmountable. With a significant turnover to the 2016 Port crew, Ashley’s experience and expertise have been invaluable in ensuring the continued smooth day to day operations of the facility. Ashley continually goes above and beyond what is expected of her as and can often times be found doing jobs often carried out by Harbor Officers and Harbor Technicians. Her positive attitude and outlook demonstrate professionalism on a daily basis. It is with great pleasure we recognize Ms. Ashley Bruce as a valuable member of the Juneau Docks & Harbors Department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members Employee of the Year.
Senior Assistant Harbormaster Daniel Berg is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for Ketchikan for 2016. Mr. Berg completed extensive research of sanitation and live aboard regulations at other harbors in Alaska which helped him draft language for proposed changes to the Harbor code that were eventually approved by both the Port and Harbors Advisory Board and the City Council. He also effectively worked with Harbor customers to explain the new regulations and advise them on their options. He was actively involved with the contractors, subcontractors and the engineers on both the Thomas Basin Harbor promenade and ramp replacement project and the Hole In The Wall Harbor reconstruction project. He was extremely proactive in testing all of the vessels in Thomas Basin for ground faults and other electrical issues and was able to advise boat owners on issues they would have to address prior to installation of the new GFI breakers. In addition to his normal duties he also performed admirably as the acting Port and Harbors Director during several extended periods. Mr. Berg has truly established himself as a respected leader and valuable member of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Ketchikan Port & Harbors Employee of the Year for 2016.
2015
Dock Supervisor Eric Suttles and Operator Dean Heyano are hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators co-employees of the year for Dillingham. Eric and Dean have a combined total of 39 years of experience working at the Dillingham City dock. Eric has outstanding organizational skills, he oversees all dock business, supervises the office, keeps the yard in order, organizes the multi-million pounds of freight and fish that cross the dock each year. He is Dillingham’s only certified crane operator and his office is the Hyster 1050 forklift. Dean is exceptional at multitasking, he operates large and small forklifts as well as runs the office. He handles all our billing, distributes all our freight. Schedules and tracks all incoming vessels. Dean has great customer service skills.
Eric and Dean come to work every day with a smile on their face and enjoy their jobs. These two dedicated, enthusiastic employees are deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as the Port of Dillingham’s employees of the year.
Deputy Port Engineer Erich Schaal is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators Employee of the Year for Juneau. Erich was engaged in ongoing construction projects, design reviews of future projects, management of contracts requiring fiduciary oversight; and, spearheading the stand-up of an asset management system for the department.
Erich was instrumental in ensuring the $11M Aurora Harbor Phase I project was completed on time and with minimal change orders. Diligently managing the construction needs with prospective harbor patron expectations, he aptly coordinated a smooth transition from contractor to customer on the anticipated date of completion. Concurrent with the Aurora Harbor project, he competently represents Docks & Harbors interests in the $12M Statter Harbor Launch Ramp Facility through technical oversight, negotiations with the contractor and liaison with City and State officials.
Mr. Schaal has been tasked with executing design and construction contracts to improve the safety at many of our facilities. Working with a local welder, Erich has been prototyping a rescue ladder for fabrication for Statter and Aurora Harbors. Additionally, he has been developing viable options to mitigate the risks associated with the Statter Breakwater openings. Innovative by nature, Erich always pursues solutions enhancing the end users ability to access our facilities – such as ladders and safety improvements at the Intermediate Vessel Float, Taku Dock and Amalga Harbor fish cleaning station.
Erich was uniquely qualified to lead efforts within the department to create an asset management tool to improve processes in our stewardship of Docks & Harbors physical properties. His acute reasoning skills led him to explore, research and execute a commercial software system contract which will allow Docks & Harbors to more efficiently administer maintenance and repairs. Erich’s dedicated and professional service to Docks & Harbors is commendable and worthy of being recognized by AAHPA members as Juneau Port & Harbors Employee of the Year.
Administrative Assistant Angela Pool is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for Ketchikan for 2015. Upon her hiring in November 2014, Ms. Pool was immediately thrust into preparation of the final 2015 Port and Harbors budgets and assisted in identifying numerous areas to meet mandatory reductions in expenditures which have carried over into preparation of the upcoming 2016 budgets. Throughout the year she has efficiently compiled and processed payroll records for the departments 10 year-round and 40 seasonal employees as well as all of the departments purchasing invoices and contractor payment requests. She also conducted a thorough audit of the finance account that had been established for Ketchikan’s hosting of the 2014 AAHPA conference which identified over $8,000 in additional revenues being received and passed on to AAHPA. She quickly came up to speed on the intricacies of the marina billing software program which was crucial due to the transfer of responsibility for reserved moorage billing from the Finance Department to the Port and Harbors Department in late 2014. As the recorder for the Port and Harbors Advisory Board she has routinely provided extremely thorough and complete draft minutes for review within 24 hours of their monthly meetings. She also was instrumental in the interviewing, hiring and training of two new customer representatives. In addition to her regular duties Ms. Pool also completed all of the required training courses and received certification as an Enrollment Agent for the Universal Enrollment System which provides fingerprinting and input of background check information for local citizens applying for Transportation Worker Identification Credentials, TSA Pre-Check and Hazmat Endorsements for their commercial driver’s licenses. Ms. Pool has truly established herself as valuable member of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Ketchikan Port & Harbors Employee of the Year.
Maintenance Supervisor Ron Pratt is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for Sitka for 2015. Ron has been working on the Sitka Harbor system for 25 years and his ongoing maintenance program has significantly extended the life of our aging docks. Since 2009 when I became Sitka Harbormaster I made sure Ron was engaged in the planning of all harbor rebuilds and his input on design has certainly made our new harbors user and operator friendly. Retired Sitka Harbormaster Ray Majeski wrote “Because of his unswerving dedication to the Sitka Harbor System, hundreds of thousands and possibly millions of dollars in savings have been realized by our community during the 25 years Ron has served Sitka.” Ron’s upbeat “Git Er Done” attitude is a plus. No job is too big; I’ve witnessed his solutions, drafted on a dry erase board. At times I ask myself “any relation to that MacGyver guy” his solutions work! I look forward to the next 5 years working with Ron. It’s going to take a lot to fill his extra tuffs when he retires. Ron Pratt has truly established himself as an exceptional member of the department and is genuinely deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Sitka’s Port & Harbors Employee of the Year.
2014
Seasonal Harbor Employee Henry Pollan is hereby recognized as Haines Port and Harbor Employee of the Year 2014 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. The most significant element that an employee can bring to any organization is a sense of anticipation in the harbor’s mission and getting things done without having been told to do so. Also, dedication to the facilities needs without worrying about the face of the clock. Henry has these qualities. Henry is outgoing and a true customer favorite. Henry is a dedicated employee upon who can be depended upon in thick and thin and in dark and wind. Henry has met every challenge presented to him and has made every effort to improve his skills in harbor management. Henry Pollan is truly deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Haines Port and Harbor Employee of the Year.
Accounting Clerk Tina Olsen is hereby recognized as Haines Employee of the Year 2014 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Tina is always dependable, efficient, and unfailingly punctual, paying exceptional attention to detail. Her willingness to take on difficult projects such as the cruise ship and fuel dock billing transactions is particularly impressive. Tina’s skills do not end with her office work. She also projects a warm, cheerful attitude to our clients. She resolves conflicts and handles other difficult situations with remarkable patience and admirable tact. She loves people, works hard, and always tries to lift the spirits of those around her. Tina Olsen is truly deserving of being named Haines Employee of the Year.
Operations & Maintenance Supervisor Douglas “Doug” Unruh is hereby recognized for his superlative performance as the Juneau Ports & Harbors Employee of the Year 2014 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Doug has been instrumental in delivering numerous facility improvements and improved customer service to harbor patrons who call upon Auke Bay. In less than a year Mr. Unruh has increased productivity, efficiency and has enhanced the working environment at the Don D. Statter Harbor Office. Leading by example, Doug is always the first to arrive and ensures tasks are properly attended to prior to his departure. His attention has resulted in a tidier and cleaner facility. An extremely capable leader, he has mentored his staff in commendable fashion. As the subject matter on self-propelled hydraulic boat lift, Doug works tirelessly to train and evaluate his staff to ensure safe and secure methods are followed in hauling out and blocking vessels in excess of sixty feed and one-million dollars. He led efforts to install new bull rail and corrected safety deficiencies along the Statter Harbor Breakwater. When a January storm resulted in severe damaged to the “C Float”, Mr. Unruh worked with the Docks & Harbors Engineering staff, PND Engineering consultants and Trucano Construction, to plan and execute repairs just in time for the busy summer boating and commercial fishing season. Working in collaboration with other harbor patrons and industry representatives, Doug embraced the TBMP (Tourism Best Management Practice) concept to ensure all patrons’ needs are understood and met to the best of our ability. His efforts have led to greater safety and efficiencies in the vessel loading zones, handicap access and parking lot coach operations. Mr. Unruh is an extremely valuable and professional Docks & Harbors supervisor. He goes out of his way to provide exceptional customer service and a willingness to listen to each patron’s concerns. His service to Docks & Harbors is commendable and worthy of recognition as Employee of the Year.
Maintenance worker Nicholas Burns is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for Ketchikan for 2014. After becoming the lead maintenance worker in 2013, he conducted a thorough overhaul of the maintenance shop and vastly improved storage for both equipment and material and worked with landfill personnel to establish an area where he could safely process a backlog of oil soaked containment booms for proper disposal. He helped diagnose and repair several of the backflow preventers on the cruise ship berths that had been suffering from chronic leaks for years. He performed emergency repairs on potable water valves and lines in Bar Harbor, Thomas Basin and City Float that failed during unusually long periods of sub-freezing temperatures. He also investigated, found and repaired several “hidden” water leaks in City Float that had been unknowingly wasting water. He also ordered and installed new doorframes and doors to replace severely deteriorated ones at the Knudson Cove restrooms. In the spring of 2014 he helped prepare the port by replacing line guards, repairing wooden sections of the promenade, painting of all crosswalks and loading zones and inspection and servicing of all fire extinguishers. He also engineered and installed new water lines and gray water lines for the port food vendor booths. In the small boat harbors he assisted in the repair of numerous broken pins and floats in Bar Harbor North and in the replacement of bull rails in Bar Harbor South. He also replaced numerous deteriorated deck boards in Thomas Basin and also replaced deteriorated cross bracing on the Thomas Basin grids. He also supervised and participated in repairs to numerous concrete deck panels in Bar Harbor North. Mr. Burns’ efforts have had a lasting effect on almost every element of Ketchikan’s Port and Harbors facilities and he is truly deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Ketchikan Port & Harbors Employee of the Year.
2013
Sr. Harbor Officer Tim Mahoney is hereby recognized as the Port of Dutch Harbor/Unalaska Employee of the Year 2013 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Tim has served Dutch Harbor for15 years. His past experience in the fishing fleet industry has brought a tremendous wealth of knowledge to their staff. He is instrumental in the tie up of the commercial fleets during the off season. Due to the geographic location and sometimes harsh weather conditions Unalaska/Dutch Harbor presents its own unique challenges. Vessel groundings, boat fires, vessels taking on water, skiffs overdue, missing people, injured crewman on offshore freighters and many more issues are handled by Tim. He is also Captain of the Port’s 32’ Almar rescue vessel and Marine Rescue Team saving lives and property innumerable times. Maintenance on dock facilities is a full time job in itself and Tim is very proficient in problem solving those issues. He is also responsible to train new harbor officers and gives valuable advice on how to efficiently get the job done. Tim requires minimal supervision as he addresses daily duties and projects with a “can do” attitude making work with him a pleasure. Tim Mahoney is truly deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Port of Dutch Harbor Employee of the Year.
Port Engineer Mr. Gary Gillette, AIA, is recognized for his superlative performance as the Juneau Docks & Harbors Employee of the Year for 2013. During this period, Gary was engaged in ongoing construction projects, design reviews of future projects, management of contracts requiring fiduciary oversight; and, spearheading the approval of a critical conditional use permit. Gary was instrumental in ensuring the $8.5M Statter Harbor Phase I project was completed on time and with minimal change orders. Diligently managing the construction needs with prospective harbor patron expectations, he aptly coordinated a smooth transition from contractor to customer on the anticipated date of completion. Concurrent with the Statter Harbor project, he oversaw the $2M downtown ferry terminal “deck over” project which also was capably completed on budget and in time. He was also tasked with executing design contracts to rebuild the Juneau Fisheries Terminal Dock, the Taku Dock, new cruise ship floating docks and the uplands portions of the Cruise Ship Terminal Staging Area. Gary was the cornerstone in coordinating all necessary permits and resolved multiple challenges to the project. The total estimated construction value of these projects exceeds $55M and all are expected to be awarded by early December. Each stated project has unique characteristics requiring innovative solutions and forward thinking managerial skills which
Gary continued his dutiful work in pursuit of the Douglas Harbor dredging Corps of Engineer’s permit and continued the design effort for the $11M Aurora Harbor rebuild. Additionally, he found time to coordinate the development of a $3.35M grant application for the proposed, multi-use Alaskan Maritime Services Building. Mr. Gillette’s dogged resolve to secure the Statter Harbor conditional use permit for a new launch ramp was noteworthy and extraordinary. Gary worked tirelessly to engage all interests of the project in revamping a concept which eventually garnered nearly universal support. His dedicated and professional service to Docks & Harbors is commendable and truly worthy of recognition by AAHPA members as Juneau Ports & Harbors Employee of the Year.
Ketchikan Senior Assistant Harbormaster Les Zetterberg is hereby commended for his contributions to the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. For more than two decades his insights, anecdotes, advice, suggestions and ideas have facilitated improvements to the operation and maintenance of port and harbor facilities throughout the State of Alaska. His honesty, wit and wisdom will be missed but the friendships he has forged will remain. We wish him fair winds, following seas and good luck in his future endeavors.
Assistant Harbormaster Andrew Mulder is hereby named the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators employee of the year for Ketchikan for 2013. He was almost always the first Assistant Harbormaster to arrive on days he was scheduled to work and made coffee for the rest of the crew and conducted thorough harbor rounds both via vessel and on foot and was the most conscientious in regards to picking up trash, and litter. In addition to his regular duties he performed numerous maintenance projects including repairs to the antennas on the Sumner Straight, steering cables on the work skiff and to the anti-two block equipment on the Bar Harbor crane. He also fabricated a set of custom skid plates for the bottom of Bar Harbor ramp no. 4 to relieve a chronic problem with the ramp hanging up on extreme low tides and helped construct a new information kiosk for the recently replaced Bar Harbor launch ramp, which included a cedar shake roof.
He responded after hours on several occasions to secure vessels that had broken free from their moorings during high winds and check on vessels reported to be taking on water. The most notable occurred during hurricane force winds in November 2012. His insights during review of the drive down float 35% design were especially helpful and resulted in a shift of the net float from float 3 to float 16 which was well received by both the engineers and users. Andrew Mulder is truly deserving of being recognized by AAHPA members as Ketchikan Port & Harbors Employee of the Year.
Deputy Harbormaster Norm Regis is hereby recognized as the Seward Harbor Employee of the Year 2013 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Norm consistently exceeds expectations in his work with customers, subordinate employees and superiors. He knows how to handle emergencies. He provided great leadership during a boat fire in the middle of the night in January 2011. Only the Fire Chief sustained injuries and boat damage was minimal. In September 2012, Norm seemed to be everywhere in Seward providing help during a damaging flood.
Norm gets things done. Twice in 12 months we had construction projects that required moving boats around the harbor. Norm handled this like a master. The two projects were different and Norm recognized that and planned accordingly. On one project multiple moves of each vessel were required, but on the second project finding places for each individual boat were more critical – some wanted to be hauled out, some wanted another slip with power, and some wanted just what was available. Norm doesn’t let an unhappy customer ruin his day – just the opposite. He carefully listens to any complaint and responds with good sensible judgment. Sometime he has to be firm, but he is always fair. Norm Regis is truly deserving of being recognized by AAHPA Members as Seward Harbor Employee of the Year.
Marine Equipment Operator Kyle Rennie is hereby recognized as the Valdez Ports & Harbor Employee of the Year 2013 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Kyle has been on the job for 19 years and safety is his number one priority. He has developed excellent skills in providing customer service and as a Marine Travelift operator.
On July 22nd, 2013 there was an explosion and fire aboard the pleasure vessel Falcon moored at the fuel dock in the Valdez Small Boat Harbor. As the fire burned through the mooring lines with the Falcon fully engulfed in flames, Kyle and another summer harbor employee used the harbor skiff to aid firefighting efforts. They were able to tie onto the burning vessel that was floating toward other vessels moored in the harbor and tow it to the tideline where firefighting crews could reach it. Kyle’s quick actions saved other vessels and docks from being damaged and kept a dangerous situation from becoming a devastating event for the Harbor. Dedication such as this is above and beyond the expected duties of harbor staff and Kyle Rennie is truly deserving of being recognized by AAHPA Members as Valdez Ports & Harbor Employee of the Year.
2012
Officer Mark Allen is hereby recognized as Haines Employee of the Year 2012 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Officer Allen’s attention to detail and enthusiasm is not only contagious with employee but with customers also. Mark does each job thoroughly and completely. He has embraced the Haines Facility Security Plan and has made sure that the Port of Chilkoot Cruise Ship Dock meets all requirements as outlined in that document. He is willing to go above and beyond to give the maximum customer service. His demeanor and work ethic reflect great credit to himself, Haines Port and Harbors, and the Haines Borough. Thank you Officer Mark Allen for a job well done!
Administrative Assistant Johanna Young is hereby recognized as Juneau Employee of the Year 2012 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Ms. Johanna Young is recognized for her dedication, attitude and willingness to provide top-notch professional service to harbor patrons. Ms. Young has been an outstanding addition to Docks & Harbors and specifically the Auke Bay staff since arriving in April 2010. She is known to many harbor customers as an extremely competent, hardworking front office Administrative Assistant. Johanna brings a very positive persona to bear when dealing with members of the public. Always projecting professionalism, she handles friendly and challenging customers, similarly and with great pose. Raised in Pelican from a fishing family, she has terrific local knowledge and passes along insight to visiting boaters looking for a SEAK adventure. An excellent scribe for the Docks & Harbors Operations Committee, Johanna delivers precise and accurate minutes. When asked to research historical documentation, she thoroughly and willingly exhausts all avenues to provide answers. Ms. Young is highly regarded and respected by all within Docks & Harbors and deserving of this recognition.
Administrative Assistant Sue Kurle is hereby recognized as Ketchikan Employee of the Year 2012 by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. As the lead member of the team that worked on the solicitation, review, selection and implementation of the department’s new marina management software system, Ms. Kurle’s insights were especially helpful during the vendor interview and the installation process and were critical to ensuring the department would have access and use of the most important data. The new system substantially improved record keeping resulting in increased revenues that led to recovery of the purchase cost of the system in less than 8 months. During development of both the Port and Harbors 2013 budgets, Ms. Kurle conducted a thorough review of the spending history for the past three years in all accounting categories and provided numerous recommendations for reductions or realignment in funding. Ms. Kurle also was responsible for preparing and tracking all of the department’s purchase orders and all of the administrative paperwork to support the management of the departments 10 full time and 37 seasonal employees.
Past Life Member Awards
2022
Jean Barrett, Dillingham Port Director & Harbormaster, On behalf of the 47 municipal harbors of the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators, we recognize your career and achievement as a Life Member within the Association. Your service and leadership to the Alaskan harbor community, and Dillingham in particular, has been commendable, deserving of recognition by your peers. Please accept our heartfelt congratulations on your retirement after 14 years as the Dillingham Port Director and Harbormaster. As Bristol Bay and Dillingham continue to set commercial fisheries records, the success of this vital economic industry to the region is in no small part to your efforts overseeing and optimizing the Dillingham waterfront. You were celebrated as a Port Director known to work with vessel captains and processors to make sure each is exceptionally supported throughout the fishing seasons. Whether it was keeping the ice machine operational, personally refurbishing the Lost Fishermen Memorial or lobbying elected officials for harbor improvements, you were always steady and reliable. In addition to service to the citizens of Dillingham and the harbor community, you have found time to coach local youth and serves as the Vice Chair on the Board of the local native village corporation. As an AAHPA Board member for over ten years, you brought knowledge and wisdom to the organization from the perspective of remote Western Alaska. Always active and participative in the governing of the Board of Directors, you assisted in this organization in becoming more influential through your tenure. You can be very proud that AAPHA is recognized by Alaskan elected officials, vessel owners and the commercial maritime industry as the preeminent voice of municipal ports & harbors.The Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators wishes you and Cindra “fair winds and following seas” as you transition to other roles in your exceptional life.
2020
Steve Corporon, Ketchikan Port & Harbors, is hereby recognized as Life Member by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Steve dedicated thirteen years to the Association, serving on the AAHPA Board of Directors since 2007 and as president from 2009 to 2013. Steve mentored over other AAHPA Presidents, and provided sound, sage guidance to dozens of other Board members. Steve coordinated two highly successful and memorable conferences, and was recognized by the Association as the 2016 Harbormaster of the Year. Steve’s greatest legacy to the Association is likely his advocacy to spearhead the establishment of the AAHPA Scholarship program for graduating high school seniors entering marine-related vocations. Steve leaves our organization and Ketchikan better than you found us. This is an ultimate compliment, and a true reflection of his dedication and character. The AAHPA thanks you for your exceptional performance and dedication, and congratulates you as a most deserving Life Member of the Association.
2019
Kim Elliot is hereby recognized as Life Member by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Kim served as the AAHPA Executive Secretary for 12 years, retiring at the end of 2016. In her role as Executive Secretary , Kim mentored numerous AAHPA Presidents and provided sound, sage guidance to scores of Board Members. A cornerstone of the Association is the annual conference run by volunteer harbormasters. Kim capably helped to coordinate a dozen highly successful conferences from Ketchikan to Dutch Harbor. Kim wisely managed the Association funds, prudently leaving the fund balance in sound and strong fiscal condition. Her care and concern for this organization is second to none, and without question her spirit and energy has guided AAHPA along a track line from safe harbor to safe harbor.
2018
Retired Harbormaster Lon White of Kodiak, Alaska is hereby recognized as Life Member by the Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators. Kodiak Harbor has long been a leader in harbor management within the State, and our members have greatly benefited from Lon’s astute and affable wisdom. Working his way through the Kodiak harbor system, Lon was uniquely qualified to provide guidance to municipal harbors throughout the State on a host of issues. Lon spearheaded numerous infrastructure improvements in Kodiak, initially as Deputy Harbormaster and project manager to then Harbormaster, including the Saint Hermon Harbor expansion and recapitalization of the large vessel float system; the Kodiak marine repair facility and large vessel boat lift; the new cargo dock facility; the completion of the Alaska Marine Highway System Dock; the rebuilding of the Channel Transit float system, and many, many harbor float replacements and upgrades. The Alaska Association of Harbormasters and Port Administrators hereby commends Lon White for the exemplary professionalism, hard work, intelligence, and dedication he has exhibited throughout his tenure with the Kodiak Harbor and as a dedicated member of AAHPA.