As we enter the Memorial Holiday weekend and kick-off the summer season with family and friends, I want to take time to remember and honor the men and women that served our country and gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedom we all enjoy.
I'm honored to serve and represent Senate District M. Please email me, call my office at 907-465-3879, or visit us anytime to share you thoughts and concerns.
This week the legislature convened to ratify the RPL's (Revised Program Language) approved by Legislative Budget and Audit (LB&A) last week. Legislative Budget & Audit committee passed the RPL's submitted by Governor Dunleavy as a way to expedite and provide funds to communities, small businesses and non-profits impacted by COVID-19. The legislature reconvened due to a legal challenge which threatened the actions by the committee and would slow down the funding process. The Senate voted 19-1 and the House 38-1 to ratify the Governor's request to distribute over $1 billion in federal aide to Alaska communities, small businesses, K-12 schools, fisheries, transportation and aviation. Below is the list of funding requested by the Governor:
$568.6 million for community assistance;
$290 million in grants for small businesses;
$51.6 million for statewide aviation, rural airports and the Whittier Tunnel;
$50 million in grants for the fishing industry;
$45 million for K-12 education;
$42 million for child nutrition programs;
$29 million for rural transportation costs, including the Alaska Marine Highway System;
$10 million for homeless assistance;
$5 million for University of Alaska and its students; and
$3.6 million for state and local law enforcement.
Congratulations Service & South High Graduates!
Congratulations on your graduation from Service and South High School!
Graduation from high school is a significant milestone and a result of many years of hard work and dedication. I join your family, friends and teachers in recognizing your academic achievement. Each of them made an impact through the years and are excited for you to begin the next phase of your life.
As you begin this new chapter, as an adult, you will face many new opportunities and increasing responsibilities. I encourage you to give some thought to what your responsibilities will be as a citizen of our city, state and nation. We are privileged to live in a free nation that inspires our citizens to get involved and add their voice to the legislative process on the city, state and national level. As a state senator for the lower hillside (District M), I encourage you now to take the first step in civic engagement and register to vote.
Many Americans have fought for the right to vote and have a say in how their government works. Exercising your right to vote will help make sure your government reflects your personal views and principles. I have provided the link to the voter registration form so you can take that first step.
The graduating Class of 2020 has experienced firsthand a state and national emergency. I know that this has impacted many activities and is disheartening at this exciting time. Life will be filled with many challenging situations that you will navigate through - I know you have the ability to conquer any obstacle that comes your way. Know that there are better days ahead and you are prepared for success in any future endeavor.
Again, please accept my warmest congratulations, and best wishes for every success.
Proud Moment
My daughter, Keilah graduated from middle school this week. We are very proud of her hard work and dedication during the quarantine at home. I have more appreciation for all the work our educators do on a daily basis. Hats off to all the parents who home schooled!
Rewarding Way to Social Distance
Spring cleanup in the neighborhood. Finding meaningful physical activities conducive to social distancing can be challenging. I like hiking and running, but we found an even more rewarding one- cleaning up litter in the neighborhood. It felt great to get outside and fill up some trash bags.
State of Alaska AKCARES Act Grant Funding
The Department of Community, Commerce and Economic Development (DCCED) and the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) in conjunction with Credit Union 1 are working to distribute $290 million in AKCARES grants to small businesses and non-profit organizations impacted by COVID-19. The applications will be available next week and will be provided on the DCCED, AIDEA, and Credit Union 1 websites.
Application period is scheduled to begin on May 26th and funds will be awarded first come, first serve.
For additional information DCCED has provided an informational sheet, application package checklist and program frequently asked questions FAQs. Many details are still being worked out and websites will be updated as details become available.
For local assistance with the Small Business Administration (SBA) - click on the picture below to contact the Alaska District SBA Office.
Reopen Alaska Phase 3/4 - Effective Today
This week Governor Dunleavy announced moving to Phase 3 & 4 in an effort to reopen Alaska responsibly.
Phase Three of the Reopen Alaska Responsibly Plan will take effect today, allowing all businesses to open at 100 percent capacity. Official guidance is available on the State of Alaska website.
All businesses may open
All houses of worship and religious gatherings may open
All libraries and museums may open
All recreational activities may open
All sport activities may open
Our mailing address is:
Session: State Capitol, Room 125, Juneau, AK 99801
Interim: 1500 West Benson, Room 410, Anchorage, AK 99503
