AAPA names Scalise 'Port Person of the Year'

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) will honor House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) as "Port Person of the Year" at the association's annual spring conference in Washington, D.C., next month.

Scalise will be recognized for his "strong advocacy of the maritime industry" since he joined Congress in 2008, AAPA officials said in a press release.

"Since he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Scalise has shown he understands that ports play a central role in driving our nation's economy and creating good, American jobs," said AAPA President and Chief Executive Officer Kurt Nagle. "From his seat at the House leadership table, we believe Congressman Scalise will continue to focus on modernizing our ports and serving as a strong advocate for maritime and port issues."

Scalise has built a coalition of maritime leaders with the creation of the Maritime Advisory Council, which meets annually in New Orleans. He also has organized bipartisan educational trips for lawmakers to visit New Orleans, Port Fourchon and offshore oil and gas facilities, AAPA officials said.