2026 Small Ports Seminar Agenda
Wednesday, October 21
Wednesday evening is yours to enjoy. Take the opportunity to explore beautiful Chelan and choose from the area’s local dining options. Many restaurants close early midweek, so we encourage you to make reservations in advance.
Thursday, October 22
Programming Note: Breakfast is on your own Thursday morning. Please plan accordingly.
** Thursday’s general session events take place in the Centennial Ballroom on the 1st floor and the reception takes place in the Stehekin Ballroom on the 2nd floor**
Optional Pre-Conference Intensive – No Registration Necessary
9:00 – 11:30 am – Optional Intensive – Delivering Big Projects at Small Ports
Jay Hester, Port of Walla Walla
David Ripp, Aetta
11:30 am – Break – Lunch is on Your Own. There are lots of great options within walking distance!
12:30 pm – Registration Opens
Seminar Officially Begins – Registered Seminar Attendees Only
1:00 pm – 1:05 pm – Welcome and Introduction
1:05 – 1:20 – Educational Options at WPPA – The Big Book
Eric ffitch, WPPA
1:20 – 2:05 pm – Speaker Invited
2:05 pm – Break
2:20 – 3:10 pm – Website Best Practices & ADA Compliance
Michael Page, Underground
3:10 – 4:00 pm – In the Know with SAO
Josh Stohr, Assistant State Auditor, Washington State Auditors Office
4:00 – 6:00 pm – Associate Member Speed Dating Reception
Getting to know our associate member resources while we enjoy drinks and light appetizers. Bring your spouse along for an evening of great company and connection!
Friday, October 23
Hotel checkout is 11:00 am, and there is no option for late checkout. We recommend you checkout before/after you eat breakfast OR during the break at 9:50 am. Thank you!
**All of this morning’s events take place in the Centennial Ballroom**
7:00 am – Breakfast Buffet
Breakfast is for registered seminar attendees only, no guests please.
8:00 – 9:00 am – CERB
Jenae Stark, CERB
9:00 – 9:50 am – The Care & Feeding of Volunteers
Tim Schermetzler, CSD Attorneys at Law
Other speakers invited
9:50 am – Break – good opportunity to check out of your rooms!
10:10 – 11:10 am – Speaker Invited
11:10 am – Portside Trivia Throwdown
WPPA Staff!
12:00 pm – Prizes & Adjourn