The Chicago Propeller Club, supported by sponsor Polaris Media, welcomed more than 100 guests from across the Great Lakes and Midwest maritime community to its summer reception held in partnership with the American Great Lakes Ports Association (AGLPA).
Hosted by Propeller Club President Chris Carr and the club’s board of directors, the reception came at a pivotal time for U.S. maritime.
This was highlighted in the speech by Vice President Ben Pinnington, founder of Polaris Media, in welcoming the AGLPA conference to Chicago for a third year:
“The AGLPA conference is important because, under the new administration, maritime has its highest profile arguably since World War II. It is vital that the Great Lakes and Midwest projects its maritime prowess to the USA to attract investment,” he said.
Speeches also referenced the club’s commitment to supporting the region’s diverse maritime businesses, helping to raise awareness and attract new investment.
At the reception, a keynote address was delivered by Maritime Administration (MARAD) head Sang Yi, who said:
“This is a pivotal time. We are in a new era thanks to President Trump bringing back U.S. maritime power stronger than ever. It is time to make your voice heard. For too long our U.S. maritime industry has been ignored. Yet the maritime industry is vital for our economic strength and national security. We are going to work hard every day to make it stronger. We are going to help build the best maritime workforce in the world. We are going to boost demand for U.S. shipping. And we are going to invest in our ports.”
Two leading figures in Great Lakes shipping were also honored. Deborah DeLuca, recently retired Executive Director of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority, received a special award presented by AGLPA executive director Brian Oszakiewski and Port of Monroe Executive Director Capt. Paul LaMarre III.
DeLuca encouraged attendees to combine their efforts to strengthen the industry’s voice in Washington DC.
Jackie Q. Carter, Port Milwaukee Director, was also recognized as she prepares to take on a new role with the City of Milwaukee.
Looking ahead, Jack R. Dougherty, MSM, co-founder and owner of autonomous shipping company Janus Marine & Defense LLC, stated the importance of embracing emerging technologies to improve efficiency, enhance safety and strengthen U.S. national security.
The event also highlighted the work of veteran-led Chicago charity No Salt Sailing, which supports veterans and their families in coping with PTSD through sailing programs on the Great Lakes.