Ylli Ferati Fiori D’Italia Restaurant Ylli Ferati grew up in the industry, folding pizza boxes as early as he could walk, to cleaning in the dishpit, to prepping with his dad in the kitchen. The son of immigrants, he is proudly Albanian-American and his family currently owns the revered and hidden Fiori D’Italia in the heart of Spenard, where he serves as bartender. He has been recognized nationally for his commitment to the whisky industry and has put Alaska on the map for whisky. Said of Ylli Ferati: “Ylli’s talent is rare and his liquor knowledge is varied as he pours many exotic types of cocktails. At his young age he has worked hard, long hours to help his family and has made the bar an internationally recognized whisky bar.”
Liz Gerken Miller Trinion Quality Care Services As Human Resources and Office Manager at Trinion, Liz Gerken Miller handles the hiring and on-boarding of new staff, keeps the office running smoothly and often represents the company at job and career fairs. Her motto is, “Answer the phone with a smile because you don’t know what kind of day the person has had before speaking with you.” Liz also volunteers for Hands of Peace Alternatives to Violence Project, teaching creative conflict resolution built on affirmation, respect, cooperation and trust. Said of Liz Gerken Miller: “I think she has fantastic charisma making everyone feel wanted and important. Her professional congenial attitude combined with a genuine willingness to help her fellow human beings goes way beyond.”
Misty Helander Remington Hotels, Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa Misty Helander has worked in the hospitality industry for more than 18 years and is a hard, flexible, dedicated, passionate employee with exemplary attendance and a smile on her face. In her current role as senior sales manager, Misty is responsible for obtaining and cultivating group business in the military, federal government, international government, religious and fraternal market segments. She loves bringing people to Alaska and helping them experience our amazing state. Said of Misty Helander: “It has been an honor to have Misty on my team. There is not a week goes by where I do not get a comment made to me via internal or external communication on how great Misty is and is a true hero of our industry.”
6
ACHIEVEMENT IN BUSINESS