| Updates from Alaska and Washington, D.C. |
Dear Alaskans,
In the time since my last Washington Report, much has happened in both Alaska and Washington, D.C. I recently traveled home to Alaska as part of the state work period to meet with constituents and discuss their priorities for the Congress. Meeting directly with constituents is critical to being able to represent you effectively in Congress, and I always appreciate the chance to spend time with familiar faces in addition to new ones. I hope you'll take a moment to read about my work in both Alaska and Washington, D.C. below.
I want to take this opportunity to address an issue that is on the minds of Alaskans and Americans across our nation: COVID-19, otherwise known as Coronavirus. I'm continuing to monitor developments surrounding Coronavirus, and I'm relieved that at this time, there are no confirmed cases in Alaska. Coronavirus represents uncharted territory for our nation and to others across the globe. The federal government's capacity to respond is of utmost importance. This week, I helped the House pass $8.3 billion in emergency funding to accelerate the development of a Coronavirus vaccine, increase access to treatment and testing, and expand the availability of critical telemedicine services. There is nothing more important to me than the health and safety of Americans, and I continue to be in communication with state and federal officials to ensure the safety of our communities.
In the meantime, the CDC continues to be a good resource for those with questions about Coronavirus, its symptoms, and how best to prevent infection. Click here to access these resources.
Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter.
Sincerely,
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| Coronavirus Resource Center |
Last week, I launched an online Coronavirus Resource Center. Coronavirus represents uncharted territory for our nation, and Alaskans deserve access to the latest information as it develops. My Coronavirus Resource Center offers constituents a single location containing situational updates from the CDC, resources for identifying potential infection, and materials to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
My staff and I stand ready to assist Alaskans with any concerns they may have. I encourage you to contact me should you have any questions or need assistance with this rapidly developing international situation.
Click here to access the Coronavirus Resource Center on my website.
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| UPS Anchorage Visit |
The men and women of UPS work hard day in and day out to ensure that Alaska's families and businesses receive on-time deliveries – even in the middle of a record-breaking blizzard! During the state work period, I met with the flight operation team at the UPS facilities in Anchorage. I was very impressed by the professionalism and efficiency of the team, and appreciated our productive conversations.
There are over 1000 dedicated UPS employees in our great state. People across Alaska depend on their essential services, and like true Alaskans, they won't let a little bit of snow get in their way. Thank you to everyone at UPS for allowing me to get a first-hand look at the critical work you do!
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| Elizabeth Peratrovich $1 Coin |
In February, we recognized Elizabeth Peratrovich Day. Peratrovich, a member of the Tlingit nation, was instrumental in the passage of the Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945 by the Alaska territorial government. I’m very proud that the U.S. Mint has chosen Elizabeth Peratrovich to be featured on the 2020 Native American $1 Coin. She not only made history in her lifetime, but has broken another barrier by becoming the first Alaska Native depicted on U.S. currency.
Click here to read more about this remarkable Alaskan and the Native American Coin honoring her legacy.
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| National Congress of American Indians |
I recently addressed the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) at its 2020 Executive Council Winter Session in Washington, D.C. The NCAI does important work advocating for Alaska Natives and Native Americans across our country, and it was my great honor to speak before them. I covered many topics, including my work to protect the Indian Health Service’s funding from government shutdowns, and my legislation to help restore buffalo populations on tribal lands. Click here to read my full remarks.
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| Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 367 |
One doesn’t need to look far to find a significant landmark in our state that Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 367 helped build. For decades, Local 367 has fought for safe workplaces and fair compensation for Alaska’s plumbers, steamfitters, and contractors. During my recent trip to Alaska, I had the opportunity to stop by Local 367’s training facilities in Anchorage. The training offered here not only helps Alaska’s tradesmen hone their skills, it also provides new and exciting opportunities for Alaska’s young people who may be interested in the trades. I want to thank Local 367 for inviting me and for all the work they continue to do for Alaska's hardworking tradesmen.
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| Rotary Clubs of Alaska |
None of us can make change happen alone; in fact all of my legislative initiatives are made in partnership with Alaskans who are committed to making a difference in our communities. Alaska’s Rotary Clubs are full of these very leaders, and I was grateful for the opportunity to update the Downtown Anchorage Rotary Club and the Anchorage South Rotary Club on my work on behalf of our state. Rotary Clubs bring together community members from all cultures, occupations, and neighborhoods to share their passion for Alaska. This crucial cross-section of Alaskans is critical to sound policymaking. Thank you to both Rotary Clubs for hosting these important meetings, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to make sure your voices are heard in Washington, D.C.
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| World Ice Art Championships |
It was wonderful to see so many friends at the Ice Alaska event celebrating winners of the World Ice Art Championships. These ice sculptures are incredible works of frozen art, which makes them quintessentially Alaskan! I always appreciate the chance to visit Ice Alaska, and I am grateful that it continues to be a pillar of community and culture in Fairbanks. I was very happy to catch up with my good friend Bernie Karl, who truly is an institution in the interior. We recently lost his dear wife Connie, but her legacy will continue to be felt in our communities for years to come. Thank you to Ice Alaska for hosting a great event!
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| Top District Issues |
Having conversations over a hot cup of Joe is a great way to hear about the issues that matter most to Alaskans. I recently stopped by Jitters coffee shop in Eagle River to meet with constituents, update them on my work in Washington, D.C., and listen to their priorities for the Congress. It was a very productive meeting, and I want to thank everyone who joined me!
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| YMCA of Alaska |
I'm very proud of the work the YMCA does in Alaska and across our country. You might not know this, but when I first moved to Alaska, I stayed at a YMCA. Ever since then, their mission of empowering the youth of Alaska has become a cause close to my heart. Recently, I joined the YMCA at their National Advocacy Day Breakfast to discuss the Summer Meals Act – my legislation to fight childhood hunger by expanding access to summer meal programs in our communities. As a former teacher, I know that when kids aren't eating, they're not learning. This bill is crucially important, and I'm working on getting it across the finish line.
I want to thank Nate Root of the YMCA of Alaska for introducing me before my remarks, and for presenting me with the Congressional Champion Award. I'm grateful for everything Nate and his colleagues in Alaska do for our state's children and young adults.
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| Recognizing General Thomas Bussiere |
Alaskan Command’s Commander, General Thomas Bussiere has been an incredible asset not only to Alaska, but to our entire country. I’m very proud that he has been promoted to Deputy Commander of U.S. Strategic Command. His years of advocacy for Alaska, our military families, and the relationships he’s forged with Alaska Native communities have exemplified the true meaning of service. I was proud to recognize him and his incredible career in the Congressional Record for posterity. During my recent visit to JBER, I presented him with his Congressional Record certificate, and wished him all the best in the years ahead. While I am saddened to see him leave Alaska, I am confident that he will continue providing strong leadership for our great nation. I hope you’ll join me in congratulating General Bussiere!
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| YMCA Salute to the Military |
I had the very special opportunity to join servicemembers and their families at the 43rd Annual Armed Forces YMCA Salute to the Military Dinner. Alaska is steeped in rich military history, and while we can never fully repay Alaska’s brave men and women for the sacrifices they make on behalf of our great nation, I’ll always stand up for our military. This annual gathering is just one small way for us to express our appreciation for our heroes. Special congratulations are due to Bobby Alexander, who was recognized by the YMCA as the Civic Leader of the Year for his advocacy on behalf of our military. I want to thank the Armed Services YMCA for putting on a great event, and I’d also like to thank Governor Dunleavy and Senator Murkowski for helping us recognize these courageous Alaskans. May God Bless our troops!
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| Combating AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria |
It is difficult to believe that in the year 2020, so many people across the world are dealing with the public health impacts of AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. Through modern medical science, we have developed effective treatments, vaccines, and other tools to help prevent the spread of these illnesses. Tragically, many in the developing world lack access to the resources necessary to protect vulnerable populations. I am grateful to the ONE Campaign for recognizing me for my work combating these diseases across the globe. I am proud of our country for working with our partners in the global community to eradicate these diseases, and I encourage my friends on both sides of the aisle to join me in this crucial effort. Click here to read more about my work to help create a generation free of AIDS, TB, and malaria.
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