This session presented a number of challenges for Legislators, including the gasline bill, the omnibus education bill, and bills affecting ballot initiatives. Though there are clearly glaring exceptions to considering this session a perfect success, for a number of reasons I share below, I believe that the 2014 session was very successful.
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ANCHORAGE - Today Rep. Les Gara (D-Anch), a lead sponsor of legislation to start reversing the last three years of over 600 layoffs to teachers and educators across the state, called the “three-year” education bill that passed “two, and likely three more years of layoffs on top of the more than 600 teachers staff Parnell and the GOP have cut since 2011.” Since 2011 Alaska schools have lost over 600 teachers and staff due to flat funding.
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It is with tremendous sadness that I write on the traumatic passing of two Alaska State Troopers. Sgt. Scott Johnson and Trooper Gabe Rich were killed last week in the village of Tanana after an altercation that is still under investigation. I knew these honorable men and they exemplified everything it means to be a law enforcement officer and an Alaskan. I am proud of the support shown by our great city to the families and friends of Gabe and Scott. They will be in our hearts and minds for the weeks to come.
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Dear Friends and Neighbors, I believe that the 2014 session was very successful with a couple glaring exceptions. I call the session successful for the following reasons:
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Last Thursday my aide Rose Foley and I spent our morning with 2,000 people. I know, it’s not how most of you start work, or want to start work if you like a quiet cup of coffee in the morning.
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