Thank You, Fred Sterner

Fred, Fall 2003, his last season as mate on Ernestina.

From Schooner Ernestina Commission Chairperson, Laura Pires-Hester.

“On behalf of the Schooner Ernestina Commission and all the lovers and supporters of Ernestina-Morrissey, I want to extend deep thanks and appreciation to Fred Sterner, who has served faithfully as a Commissioner since appointment by former Governor Deval Patrick in the fall of 2011.  Throughout his tenure on the Commission, Fred has brought not only his technical expertise but also his passion and thoughtful observations and assessments to bear on the Commission’s deliberations.  His maritime experience and skills have been invaluable as we have continued to seek the well-being of this historic and unique vessel, and to be good stewards of this amazing gift from the Republic of Cabo Verde.

Fred’s maritime experience is wide-ranging.  In addition to having a 200-ton near-coastal Masters License/sail endorsement, he also holds unlimited radar and fire-fighting certificates.  But his experience includes more than the requisite credentials.  He has done rigging work for the New Bedford Whaling Museum on the famous Lagoda and Tea Party Museum ships.  During the winters he has been Mate/Engineer of the Spirit of Massachusetts and the Harvey Gamage, and served as Engineer on the Corwith Cramer (in the Caribbean) and the Robert C. Seamans (in the Pacific) as part of Sea Education Association.  For a couple of winters, he worked full time on the Ernestina when she was at Fairhaven Marine for repair work.  His has been a consistent voice of advocacy and care for the Schooner’s proper stewardship, and ensuring her dynamic and purposeful life for generations to come.  It has been a pleasure to serve with him on the Commission, and I know that he will continue to do whatever he can for her future.”

Three new Commissioners will be introduced at the September 22 meeting.

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