HELLO ALASKANS, LET'S TALK GAS PIPELINE!

John Whiting
Eagle River, AK
Oct. 4, 2001

Petroleum companies operate from the precept that construction of a natural gas pipeline from the North Slope is contingent upon traditional economic projections of the 20th century.

Alaskans are living in the 21st century, and circumstances have changed.

Regardless of current gas prices, because of world conditions, Alaska's energy resources are increasing in value and also are increasingly vital to the well-being of our country. The North Slope may be a way from Kansas City, but it's closer than Saudi Arabia.

The security of Alaska's oil and gas fields and pipelines is now linked to our national security. Threats to gas and oil production can best be countered if the delivery infrastructure is on U.S. soil.

When we consider how to value and deliver our Alaskan gas resources, we must readapt our thinking. Remember, somebody just changed the rules in the middle of the game. During these volatile times, is it appropriate for corporations, operating from a private economic perspective, to determine the security and economic policies of our nation?

The time for an all-Alaskan gas pipeline has just arrived. And it can best be built in Alaska, by Alaskans.