The 46th Alaska Folk Fest is online this year. What a wonderful gift to have musicians share the joy of music. Juneau has hosted this event for years at Centennial Hall, I’m disappointed it won’t be in-person this year, but with technology more people can join in.
As our country works through issues of unity, freedoms, and opportunities for all, I am heartened by what I see happening in Juneau.
This is the time of the year where we are outside more – whether that’s fishing, hiking, working in the yard, or just enjoying the views. This brings me some peace of mind in this time of uncertainty and stress and I hope you too find peace and comfort in our beautiful surroundings.
The coronavirus is disrupting nearly every aspect of day to day life in Alaska and across the nation. These are tough times for all of us. Please know that I, and government leaders at all levels, are working on legislation for health, safety, and economic supports.
Sunshine and great days ahead! I hope you’re able to get out and enjoy the sun this weekend. If you’re able, I look forward to seeing you at our Town Hall event on Thursday – there are details below.
The Capitol is buzzing again and I am certainly feeling the energy and excitement of the upcoming session (it starts on Tuesday, January 21). I’m looking forward to working with all of my colleagues from around the state to strengthen and improve the economy, create a sustainable state budget, make our neighborhoods safer, and educate our children.
It was a wild week of weather in Juneau, with some big things happening across the state. I also had the opportunity to discuss education policy with other states’ legislative education leaders.
Seasons are changing! We waved goodbye to the last cruise ship of the season on Wednesday, and temperatures are getting cooler. Luckily, our rain levels are helping out reservoirs.
It has been a busy week! I was in Sitka for Southeast Conference and then went to Anchorage for the bill signing ceremony of Senate Bill 40, a bill establishing Black History Month in statute. My first bill signing took place at the Martin Luther King memorial. I appreciate this bill establishing every February as Black History month; it is educational and celebrates our diversity. Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson’s words touched me. Here are some of her remarks:
I was very sorry to see the governor veto programs that keep Alaskans healthy. One of these programs is the Medicaid Adult Preventative Dental, which provides dental benefits to over 30,000 Alaskans. If you or someone you know are eligible and need dental care, I encourage you to seek out care immediately as the program expires September 30.