by George Larson
October, 2000

As most of you know, Jerry Olson, A.A.E. gave me a psychedelic t-shirt, some items to improve my golf game (including a hat I can't wear in public), a gavel and then told me "you've got it!" Well, it is a great honor to be able to serve a term as President of the Northwest Chapter, AAAE. It is really fortunate to take over an organization that is so healthy and enthusiastic. The Chapter is obviously blessed with a special breed of airport operators, corporate members and leadership. Jerry and other Past Presidents have been instrumental in continuously improving our numbers, our quality, and our wealth. The challenge is to continue in that vein, and I am committed to do just that.

As a new president, there are many advantages that will work in my favor and the favor of NWAAAE. We are blessed with a dedicated and talented Board of Directors. Information about the 2000-2001 Officers and Board members is available on the last page of this newsletter. Our membership genuinely cares about the quality and reputation of our region as well as the fellowship of our profession. The other half of the Olson team, Janelle, our Executive Secretary, is the force that keeps all of us motivated and moving in the right direction.

Al Stuart, A.A.E. gave us a benchmark in Salt Lake City this year. This coming year we need to work together to continue enhancing the International Airport Facilities Conference (IAFC). Colorado Springs and Gary Green, A.A.E. are a great combination for success but we need to help wherever and whenever we can. Janelle and I are working with AAAE to make this, and future IAFCs, even better!!

John Morrison and Todd Woodard gave us another extraordinary performance to try to surpass with the superb Annual Conference in Spokane. They even threw in an exciting all-day encounter with a bank robber (more details here). Paul Bowers, A.A.E. is "chomping at the bit" to make our next conference in Anchorage, Alaska, even better and it appears that he is on track to do just that. In addition, Paul will be offering many options that can only be enjoyed in Alaska. Paul and his committee will appreciate all and any assistance we can offer them.

One indicator of the quality of our Northwest Chapter members are the superior chapter leaders that have represented us in their roles as Chairman of AAAE. Not surprisingly, very soon after Jim Morasch, A.A.E., we will see our own Jerry Olson, A.A.E. take over AAAE in 2002. We need to do all that we can to help Jerry prepare for and assume the Chairmanship. He will serve us all proudly as he represents Northwest excellence. 

I know that I have never had, nor will I ever have, all the answers. Your assistance and ideas are essential to any success we can enjoy as a Chapter this coming year. Thank you, in advance, for you help, because I will lean on many of you (especially our Board and Executive Secretary) to get the job done. See you in Colorado Springs and Anchorage!!