Daily Sitka Sentinel

Sitka’s Chamber Among Honorees at State Forum

By Sentinel Staff
    The Alaska State Chamber of Commerce presented statewide honors Wednesday at the Top Business Awards Gala at Harrigan Centennial Hall, part of the Chamber’s Annual Fall Forum.
    Among recipients was the Greater Sitka Chamber of Commerce, which won the Local Chamber of Commerce of the Year Award for its “consistent community involvement and excellent business reputation.”
    “The Sitka Chamber excels at the traditional training, networking and seasonal events that communities rely on chambers to perform,” the state Chamber said. “Additionally, the organization takes a direct, hands-on role in growing visitation and the tourism engine that drives the city economy.”
    Others honored were:
    – Joe Beedle, who received the William A. Egan Outstanding Alaskan of the Year for his “substantial and continual contributions of statewide significance while working in the private sector,” the Alaska Chamber said.
    Beedle is a lifelong Alaskan from Juneau, serving as chairman, president and CEO of  Northrim BanCorp Inc. “His readiness to engage on important topics extends beyond his 30-year professional career. He is a steady, reassuring presence on boards and commissions, and a tireless advocate for Alaskans and a strong Alaska economy,” the Chamber said.
    – Sassan Mossanen, Denali Brewing Company owner, received the Bill Bivin Small Business of the Year award, which pays tribute to businesses that exemplify leadership, ethics, and organization.
    “Denali Brewing’s incredible growth is fueled by Mossanen’s passion for quality workmanship, clear communication and community involvement — personal traits that are reflected throughout the company,” the Chamber said. “Denali Brewing is a model of the determination and sound judgment that drives Alaska’s successful small companies.”
    – The 2017 North Star was awarded posthumously to Dan Fauske in celebration of his lifetime of service to Alaska throughout the state. The North Star is presented to an individual or organization who actively develops and pursues the betterment of all Alaska residents. Fauske served as chief financial officer and chief administrative officer for the North Slope Borough before leading the Alaska Housing Finance Corp. and the Alaska Gasoline Development Corporations. “Fauske passed away this spring in April and will be sorely missed,” the Chamber said.
    – Caroline Higgins received the inaugural Chairman’s Award, “an acknowledgment of her steadfast and valued service to the Alaska Chamber.”
    “Higgins revitalized the Chamber in her time as chair in 2009 and 2010. She is an experienced, insightful, and a welcome presence at all levels of Chamber activity,” the Alaska Chamber said.
    More than 150 business and political leaders are here from around the state for the forum, which opened Tuesday and ends today.