December Eider Pointer E_Newsletter_December2019_final | Page 3

MESSAGE
FROM THE CEO
Aang Shareholders,
As the holidays and the festivities that come with
them draw near, it’s a chance to reflect on the
past year. OC had many successes in 2019, and
I am proud of the work done by the board and
staff, but the corporation’s worth is measured by
more than numbers. Success is also defined by the
relationships we build, the support we give each
other, and the continued value we bring to OC’s
extended family of shareholders and descendants.
In the coming year you will hear much more about
the Makushin geothermal project we are embarking
on, which is an example of the care OC has for
people and the environment, while producing
positive financial returns for its shareholders. This
project has been years in the making, but patient
leadership has waited for the right circumstances
before making the decision to go for it. This green
project not only will improve the finances of the
corporation, through its ownership in the LLC
that we will operate, but it will displace over 200k
gallons of diesel fuel per month, and will lower the
energy costs for the community, from the City to
industry to personal home electric and heating
costs. That’s what a win-win situation looks like.
Since its founding, OC has been a part of a
community with deep roots, which reach back
thousands of years, and today that community has
grown to include shareholders throughout Alaska
and the rest of the United States. These roots have
defined the corporation, its mission and the values
that have guided its leaders since the beginning.
They have also given this community the strength
needed to keep going through difficult times such
as the recent disruption of services at the Unalaska
Airport – a hefty blow to an economy that relies on
air travel and cargo.
But despite interruptions in air service we keep
going, as a community and a company. The spirit of
giving that marks the holidays is seen in everyday
actions, as were the helping hands readily available
when needed. As an example, I was proud of our
own Denise Rankin, who was one of the first citizens
on the scene of the accident, doing everything
she could to help, providing supplies, phones, and
comfort to the students and staff from Cordova.
OC strives every day to live up to its mission
statement. While profit is certainly a motive for OC’s
success, as any for-profit company must provide for
its shareholders, the company continues to research
language preservation, education, and supporting
local non-profits and the arts and culture. I hope
this spirit of togetherness and humanity continues
to bring comfort and joy throughout the new year
and beyond. Our shareholders and their families
throughout the country are why OC exists, and each
of you are an important part of this very special
community, the culture and history it represents,
and the future we are building together for the
Ounalashka Corporation.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Christopher P. Salts, Sr.
CEO
OC’S DECEMBER 2019 NEWSLETTER 3