LT. GOVERNOR'S REPORT

Loren Leman
State of Alaska Lt. Governor

Juneau, AK
Nov. 17, 2005

PRESIDENTIAL VISIT:
On Monday, President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush visited Elmendorf Air Force Base, where the President delivered a rousing speech to more than 4,000 military personnel, their families and friends in the civilian community in Hangar One. His remarks were focused on the need for the United States to remain vigilant in its defense of freedom. The President noted Alaska's unique location and role in helping defend our country, saying “you're defending our nation's frontiers…securing freedom for future generations of Americans.” In a private meeting the President also greeted Alaska families who have lost their loved ones in Iraq. Carolyn and I were pleased to join U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, Governor and Mrs. Murkowski and Lt. Gen. Doug Fraser and his wife at the event.

ULTIMATE SACRIFICE:
Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Sutherland a soldier with the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team from Fort Wainwright died Saturday while deployed in Iraq. Sgt. Sutherland is survived by his wife, Maria, and their two children. Carolyn and I offer our condolences to his family and his regiment. We are thankful for his service.

FOR OUR VETERANS:
The Air Force Band of the Pacific was in fine form last Thursday night for the annual Veterans Day Concert at the Atwood Concert Hall, presented by the Alaska Veterans Foundation and the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 904. This concert is free, open to the public and this year offered inspirational music and the presentation of medals to several surviving members of the Alaska Territorial Guard, Sam Herman who served in Nunivak; Truman Cleveland, Shungnak; and Teddy Koweluk, Wales.

On Veterans Day I attended a service at the National Guard Armory on Fort Richardson, followed by a memorial service honoring Canadian service members at the Fort Richardson National Cemetery. A reminder - my new Military & Veterans webpage is up and running, and your comments and suggestions are welcome. We’ve already received and incorporated several helpful hints.

LIFE SAVERS:
The 30th Annual Alaska Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Awards Banquet was Saturday evening. I was pleased to share remarks and help hand out awards to the many deserving heroes, including Frank Wasmer of Skagway, who received the EMS Citizen Award for his quick action and cardiopulmonary resuscitation that saved the life of his wife and resulted in her total recovery. The funds invested in training EMS personnel, most of whom are volunteers, come back to the State many times over through their service.

ACTIVATION CEREMONY:
On Wednesday, I attended the activation ceremony for the 2-377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment on Fort Richardson. Commanded by Lt. Colonel Thomas Bell, this unit has a rich history. A World War II veteran from Florida who served in that unit was on hand to place the ribbons on the unit flag.

SCoR ONE FOR RESEARCH:
The Alaska State Committee on Research (SCoR), which I co-chair, met on Wednesday at UAA. We received an update on research at the University, as well as reports from four State departments on research needs - and how a coordinated, collaborative approach with the University could make sense. This would help focus research and more effectively use funds available for research.

ENERGIZING ALASKA:
So many times, Alaska has been on the threshold of exploration of ANWR and commercializing North Slope gas. We’re there again now. On Wednesday I attended the Resource Development Council’s (RDC) luncheon at the Captain Cook . Their convention runs through tomorrow, with the theme: Alaska Resources 2006: Right Place. Right Time. Our message to the rest of the nation is that Alaska does arctic and subarctic development better than anywhere else in the world. We have the most to gain by doing it responsibly and for the benefit of Alaskans first.

CITIZEN CLASSROOMS:
How will children learn citizen responsibilities if we don’t show by example? On Tuesday 20 high school seniors at Heritage Christian School and I discussed the responsibilities we all have as citizens. I highlighted great opportunities available to young people interested in serving their State, including: the Youth Vote Ambassador program, Boys and Girls State and becoming a Legislative Page. We also discussed the 50th anniversary of Alaska’s Constitutional Convention and what makes the document it produced so unique. Thanks to teacher Cleveland Zachary for arranging the visit.

A ‘BIG’ HEART:
Big Brothers/Big Sisters is another organization encouraging children in citizenship and fellowship. Wednesday evening I attended the retirement ceremony for Lanie Fleischer of Big Brothers Big Sisters Anchorage, followed by the organization’s annual dinner. Lanie served for 15 years at BBBS and will be sorely missed in the Anchorage area. Those of us in the BBBS program are grateful for all she’s done to improve the lives of children through mentoring.

ALASKA PIONEERS:
On Sunday Carolyn and I enjoyed a Harvest Dinner at Anchorage Pioneer Hall with friends. This group of seniors and others who have lived in Alaska for more than 30 years, including former Anchorage mayor George Sullivan and his wife Margaret, participates in a number of projects related to preserving Alaska’s history. We had a great time hearing old stories and visiting over turkey and pecan pie with Charlie and Charlotte Tryck as they dined with all five of their children.

UPCOMING EVENTS:
Tomorrow I chair the Alaska Historical Commission meeting in Anchorage. Carolyn and I will be in Fairbanks over the weekend for several events.