On December 21, Stephen Shoaf, Director of Utilities for the City of Burlington, was recognized before the City Council as the recipient of the 2004 Arthur Sidney Bedell award. In November, 2004, Steve was honored by the NC American Waterworks Association / Water Environment Association (NCAWWA/WEA) at their annual conference in Charlotte when he was presented with the prestigious Bedell award for his contributions and service to the professional association and to the water and wastewater industry. Steve has been a member of the national and state associations for over 16 years. During this time he has served on the NCAWWA/WEA Board of Directors, and chaired several committees. Most notably, Steve has chaired the Seminars and Workshops, Membership, Spring Fling Program, and Wastewater Schools committees. Steve served as a charter member of the NC Outreach committee. As an instructor at the wastewater certification schools, water certification schools, and numerous training seminars, Steve has emphasized continuing education and professional development for water and wastewater industry employees. In 1989 Steve was recognized for outstanding service to the North Carolina Waterworks Operators Association and in 1998 he was selected for the NCAWWA/WEA Outstanding Service Award. Steve has been an employee of the City of Burlington since July 1988.