October 15, 2013

Dear Neighbors,

Friday October the 18th is Alaska Day! It commemorates the day Alaska was transferred from Russia to the United States. On October 18th, 1867, the Russian flag was lowered for the last time and an American flag was raised for the first of many times. We are blessed to live in this great state (and pick up such a bargain!) Celebrate by doing something Alaskan with friends and family. Go for a hike at Creamer’s Field and notice the leaves changing color, take the kids to Pioneer Park, or learn more about Alaskan history at the UAF Museum!

Air Quality Improvement Open House

The State Department of Environmental Conservation is hosting another air quality open house this Wednesday the 16th at North Pole Middle School, 300 E. 8th Ave from 5-7pm. The proposed regulations will cover open burning, new wood stove standards, emission standards and other air quality concerns. I attended the first air quality meeting and it contained valuable information and lots of knowledgeable folks were present to speak about the issue. Make sure your comments are a part of the discussion by attending or click here to submit written testimony online.

Finance Subcommittee to Hear About Behavioral Health

Behavioral health issues continue to be a challenge for our young and expansive state. The House Finance Committee, of which I am a member, will hold public meetings on the behavioral health division budget in the Fairbanks Legislative Information Office on October 21st and 22nd. Public testimony is not being taken at these meetings, however, I invite you to attend and speak directly to House Finance Committee members. You can also watch the meeting live on your computer at http://akl.tv/.

Parent Involvement Means You!

October is busy with meetings! We know that kids who have active and engaged parents perform better in school and in life. On October 22, from 5:30-7:30pm at the J.P. Jones Community Development Center, a town hall meeting will be held to discuss the current school climate and parent involvement. There will be a presentation followed by small group discussions. The meeting is hosted by the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Fairbanks. I encourage anyone interested in this opportunity to participate. Refreshments and child care are provided!

Working Hard for Fairbanks Families,