The Observer, December 2004
New reps for Homer, Valdez, take council seats
John Velsko of Homer and Connie Stephens of Valdez have joined the board of directors of the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council. They were seated Sept. 16 at the board’s quarterly meeting in Kenai.
Velsko represents the city of Homer on the council. He is a commercial fisherman and formerly worked at the Alyeska tanker terminal in Valdez.
John Velsko
“I was intimately involved with many of the issues and problems that the board is currently dealing with,” Velsko said. “I felt that I had the practical knowledge necessary to comment on board matters and the time commitment required to become a valuable member.”
He replaces Paul McCollum, who also resigned. Velsko’s term expires in March of 2005, and he said he hopes to be reappointed as Homer’s representative.
Stephens represents the city of Valdez. She manages a sporting-goods store in Valdez, serves on the city council, and has been a commercial fisher in Prince William Sound.
Connie Stephens
She was raised in Anchorage, but moved to Valdez in 1973. “I am really looking forward to working with the council,” she said. “I have lived around Prince William Sound for over 30 years. As a former commercial fisherman and an avid sport fisherman, I have a great love of the Sound.”
She replaces Rich Nielsen, who resigned from the council. Her term expires in March of 2006.
She is not related to Stan Stephens, also of Valdez, who represents the Alaska Wilderness Recreation and Tourism Association on the council board.