Senator Murkowski E-Newsletter for November 18, 2014

Statement

Greetings Alaskans!

As always, I loved making the most of my time while in the state in the last month. Connecting with Alaskans day in and day out keeps me informed about what's happening in your communities and the current issues you face. I definitely didn't mind the unusually warm November weather…especially when I'm walking my dog at night.

Now, it's back to D.C. for me as the Senate heads back into session. We have a lot of work to do!

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention

This year's Alaska Federation of Natives Convention in Anchorage was a week of renewal for me. Our one-on-one conversations, getting to connect with you and hear from you, helps me better communicate your story with others as I go back to Washington, D.C.

Whether watching the dancers at Quyana or walking around the arts and crafts hall, I really enjoyed catching up with so many of you (I even did a little bit of shopping).

I love the rich cultural diversity at AFN. It is a great family reunion, and I look forward to seeing you all again in 2015!

Arctic Circle 2014

I was honored to represent the U.S. Senate at the Arctic Circle Conference in Reykjavik, Iceland, earlier this month. America's Arctic Representative Admiral Papp also attended and we both spoke on Arctic issues, as did other international leaders such as German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Iceland President Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, and Finland President Sauli Niinistö.

It was a great opportunity to gather with national and international Arctic leaders to engage on so many issues that are important to us. To have Alaskan representation at the Arctic Circle was key as we are the state that makes the U.S. an Arctic nation.

Veterans Day

As Alaskans, we have the honor of being surrounded by veterans, more so per capita than any other state in the nation. On Veterans Day, and every day, we should thank those who have served us and who give truth to the words "Freedom is not free".

Words will never be enough to thank our veterans for their selfless actions in making the decision to serve our country, their courage during active duty, and their commitment to our communities when they return home. One of the best ways we can show our gratitude for our veterans is by asking what we, as individuals and as a community, can do for them. We should remember to live every day appreciating the freedoms and liberties that our military has secured for us and continues to protect.

Thank you to those who have served.

Surf Alaska

While driving down the Turnagain Arm, I recorded video of two surfers riding the bore tide. What an amazing place we live in!

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