Islanders honored at chamber of commerce annual meeting

Island entrepreneurs dressed in their holiday best for the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce annual meeting at Brickworks, Dec. 11.

“Our new location was one of our biggest projects this year,” said Becki Day, the chamber’s executive director, during her annual report, adding that in the old location, behind the General Store on Spring Street, only two staff members were needed at the front desk even in the middle of summer. In the new location, at 165 First Street, four employees were necessary for the peak season. On one record day, 258 people came through the chamber’s office.

Helen Machin-Smith and Dan Mayes, co-founders of Island Stage Left, gave a sneak peek from their upcoming performance “Omnium Gatherum.” This show, opening Dec. 15, has become an island holiday tradition, its two Christmas Eve shows usually sell out.

After applause for Stage Left, Mayor Carrie Lacher read a town proclamation, appreciating the ferry workers who, for no fault of their own handled a tough tourist season involving multiple ferry breakdowns.

The proclamation read:

“Whereas, Zach Akin and his crew exhibited great skill and patience in assisting their customers and working through challenges presented them on a day to day basis; and

Whereas, the Town of Friday Harbor wishes to thank and recognize these unsung heroes and heroines for tackling the problems as they arose while maintaining their good humor and professionalism.”

Dec. 13 is now Friday Harbor Ferry Workers Appreciation Day.

Akin, Anchor Management Services Inc. owner and operator, which contracts with the state to manage Friday Harbors ferry terminal, thanked everyone for the recognition, while his crew stood beside him, smiling.

The awards of excellence were given to business owners who were recognized for excelling in quality service, products, upholding the island friendly spirit, practicing high business ethics and exemplifying enlightened customer service and staff relations, Day said.

Awards were presented to the following businesses:

Accommodations – Lakedale Resort

Activities – Island Stage Left

Art – Belle Terre Island Ceramics

Aviation – Kenmore Air

Boating – San Juan Safaris

Community/Community Events – The Whale Museum

Education – Friday Harbor UW Labs

Health and Wellness – San Juan Fitness

Island Services – Island Air

Non-Profit – Wolf Hollow

Professional Services – Eagle Home Mortgage

Restaurant – Coho Restaurant

Retail-a tie – Robins Nest and Griffin Bay Books

Transportation – San Juan Transit

Utilities – San Juan Wireless

Sam R. Buck presented the Community Spirit Award to Lacher, who said she was proud of her accomplishments and congratulated mayor-elect Farhad Ghatan.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what he does,” Lacher said.

Staff photo Heather Spaulding.Staff photo Heather Spaulding. Mayor-Elect Farhad Ghatan enjoying the festivities.

Staff photo Heather Spaulding. Island Stage Left Dan Mayes gives a sneak preview of their new production.

Staff photo/Heather Spaulding Mayor Carrie Lacher reading a proclamation about appreciating ferry workers to ZacAkin. Staff photo Heather Spaulding. Mayor Carrie Lacher presents award to Zac Akin and the Friday Harbor ferry crew.