Building the Future

Building the Future

Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Two days ago in Eagle River I was honored to stand with Vietnam veterans in somber reflection of the names on the Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall Memorial. This deeply moving experience brought back powerful memories for me. I was a freshman senator in Washington, D.C., serving on the veterans committee when the Memorial Wall was dedicated in our nation's capital. Then, and now, the Wall has a profound emotional impact on all who view it. I am grateful to those who worked so hard to bring the Moving Wall back to Alaska, and am especially pleased that this time the Wall can be viewed in some of our smaller communities. It has been to Fairbanks and Wasilla and will next go to Cordova, Bethel and Auke Bay. The sacrifice of those who served in Vietnam and those who serve today must never be forgotten, and for that reason I have proclaimed May 19 through July 22 as The Summer of Honor - A Season of Gratitude.

Strengthening Lives and Futures.

Last week at Woodland Park Boys & Girls Club in Anchorage, I was very pleased to sign into law two criminal justice bills: HB 149, the marijuana-methamphetamine bill, and SB 237, which adds six new Superior Court judges (two in Anchorage, two in Palmer, and one each in Kenai and Fairbanks). I came to the Boys & Girls Club to announce that Alaska is getting tough on these drugs for one reason: to help protect our children from the ravages of powerful substances that cripple lives and destroy futures. I was deeply moved by the strong turnout of this legislation's many supporters, including representatives from the departments of Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Health and Social Services. Furthermore, Alaska was honored by the presence of White House Office of Drug Control Policy Deputy Director Scott Burns, who came all the way from Washington, D.C. for this bill signing. After signing HB 149, it was time to complete the circle and sign the next bill to add more judges to our justice system. I extend my deepest thanks to Chief Justice Bryner for attending and speaking so eloquently and strongly in support of both of these bills. There is hardly a day that passes when I do not make reference to Alaska's bright future. That bright future is reflected in the children who gathered around the table as I signed these bills into law. I want you to know that their presence made that moment something I will never forget.

Making Our Case for Alaska's Future.

I am disappointed the Legislature did not pass PPT. My proposal would have doubled the tax on oil and moved us directly to the real prize: our long-awaited natural gas pipeline. My administration continues to take our case to the public, all across Alaska, and we are very pleased with the growing support for the proposal we have put forward. The above photo tells a story that is more powerful than words. It reflects the fact that Alaska's future really is at stake. Members of the House and Senate will now have a well-deserved opportunity to spend time with their families, neighbors and constituents. I urge my fellow Alaskans to make the time to contact their legislators with a very simple message: leaders of three of the world's most successful energy companies have agreed with my administration on terms that will get Alaska out of the wishing stage and propel us immediately into action on building the brightest future we could ever imagine. Let us not jeopardize that future.

Save the Date.

Next week in Anchorage there will be an exciting two day conference presented by the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development and the U.S Small Business Administration: the 2nd Annual 2006 Statewide Small Business and Faith-Based Conference. I encourage you not only to spread the news, but to consider your own participation in what promises to be a very worthwhile event.

Gas Pipeline Public Hearings Continue.

In communities throughout Alaska, the gas pipeline public hearing process moves forward. These are very exciting times, and I encourage Alaskans to take full advantage of the opportunity to comment on the contract now before the people. Here is the official Schedule of Public Hearings and Project Fairs. We will soon be announcing the schedule for the third phase of the public hearing process. Responsive government depends on active citizens, and I urge Alaskans to stay informed and be involved. Everything you need to know about the gas pipeline contract is found right here.

http://www.gov.state.ak.us/newsletter/newsletter06_09_2006.php