EVERETT — Mayor Ray Stephanson has won the top award from the Everett Area Chamber of Commerce for his leadership on behalf of the business community.
Stephanson will be presented with the Henry M. Jackson Citizen of the Year award Dec. 5 at the chamber’s annual awards dinner and gala. The award is named after the late Sen. Jackson and is presented each year to a person whose efforts have had a positive effect on business and the community at large.
“The Everett chamber is fortunate to have so many community leaders whose contributions positively impact the business community and our entire region,” said Louise Stanton-Masten, chamber president. “This year’s recipients demonstrate the highest dedication to the mission of the chamber and to community service. We salute them all.”
The chamber cited Stephanson’s efforts to secure a University of Washington branch campus for the city, his leadership to keep Naval Station Everett from closure and his aid in the expansion of Everett Mall, Everett Community College and Providence Everett Medical Center as examples of leadership.
Stephanson and other honorees will be lauded at the gala at the Hansen Conference Center at Hewitt Avenue and Broadway in downtown Everett. For information or registration, call 425-257-3222 or e-mail info@everettchamber.com.
Other award recipients include:
Gail Larson, corporate executive of the year. Larson, chief executive of Providence Health and Services for Northwest Washington, was lauded for aiding the business environment and providing access to world-class health care.
Dick Schlosser, small business executive of the year. Schlosser, president of Electronic Business Machines Inc., was cited for business leadership and initiative while guiding his company to steady growth.
Washington State Department of Transportation, service to business award. For work on the carpool lane project in Everett through a public-private partnership.
Steadfast Companies, business innovation. The purchaser of the Everett Mall in 2004, Steadfast has revitalized the shopping area with expanded retail development.
Kirtley-Cole Associates LLC, employer of the year. For excellence in management, mentoring, leadership and creating positive role models for employees.
Snohomish County PUD, employees of the year. For customer commitment, especially their dedication to restoring power during the winter storms that knocked out service to much of the region.
Peter Harvey and Dave Wheeler, Dick Stevens community caring award. Harvey, of Edward Jones Investments, was honored for his community service, including work as chairman of the board for Museum of Snohomish County History. Wheeler, owner of Northwest Aviation Center, was cited for generous contributions to the community, including membership in Angel Flight, which transports medical patients.
Perteet Inc., friend of the chamber. For consistent support for the chamber’s higher education and transportation improvement efforts.
Todd Morrow, the president’s award. The director of public affairs for Community Transit, Morrow was lauded for unending dedication to the chamber, including many years on the board of directors and as chairman of the government affairs division.
Cathy Reines, chairman’s award. The chief executive for First Heritage Bank, Reines was lauded for commitment to the chamber, including service on the board and the Finance Committee.
Milt Heger, chamber ambassador of the year. Heger, of Apollo Neon, was also honored for commitment to the chamber and his service to businesses in the community as an ambassador.
Herald writer Mike Benbow: 425-339-3459 or benbow@heraldnet.com.
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