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The Twenty-fourth Alaska State Legislative session has started and already promises to be a busy year. Since I just recently filled the Senate seat for District H last September, many of you do not know who I am or the values for which I stand. I would like to take this opportunity to tell you about my general philosophy and myself.
I am a retired Colonel with 25 years of military service in Alaska and overseas. I was born in Florida, graduated from Florida State University in 1969 with a BS in Criminal Justice. In 1980, I received a Master's Degree in Personnel Management. The Officer and Leadership training that I received in the military over the past several years has prepared me for this new chapter in my life, as your State Senator.
My family and I first came to Alaska in 1975. We are passionately involved in a variety of community activities, including youth sports, hunting, fishing, and flying. My wife, Becky, a veteran Army Helicopter Pilot, is a school administrator for the Mid-Valley Jr./Sr. High School and is involved in youth sports.
My son, Chad, attends the University of Nebraska, on an ROTC scholarship, and he plans to be an Airborne Ranger in Army Special Operations. My daughter, Hallie, 17, and son, Cody, 14, attend high school in the Mat-Su School District. They both are involved in competitive running. I am very proud of my family and the interests they pursue.
As many of you know, I was recently the Alaska Director of Veterans' Affairs until becoming your Senator. I am a proud veteran of the Vietnam War! Veterans' issues are extremely important to me and I will continue to support our causes. I currently serve on the Armed Services Joint Committee, as well as, the Senate Finance Subcommittee for Military and Veterans Affairs.
Another area of great interest is the education of our children. I have been involved as a board member of the Mat-Su School Board, and am a past President of a PTA. Since my wife is employed with the School District, I get first-hand insight into the concerns of students, teachers, and parents. Education is a priority during this legislative session and I will be an advocate for a quality education system.
Everyday, we are reminded about our roads and the urgent need for both new and improved road systems throughout South-central Alaska, particularly in the Valley, due to the rapid growth of population. As Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, and a member of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Transportation & Public Facilities, I will work toward that end. An improved rail corridor is also an immediate concern. Due to the anticipation of a gas pipeline, there will be a tremendous need for use of the railroad for transportation to logistically support the gas pipeline construction.
I commit to spending the Alaskan people's money responsibly and not spend our money on programs that are not justified and supportable over the 'long term'. We must not go on a spending spree because we have a near term spike in oil prices.
I will not propose or support intrusive government laws or regulations that complicate your family's life. Expect me to vigorously protect your access to our public land, so you can continue to enjoy the multiple recreation activities we traditionally expect.
I want to hear what your concerns are! Please feel free to get in touch and let us know how we can help you. You may contact my staff or me by e-mail at Senator_Charlie_Huggins ''@'' legis.state.ak.us or by calling 800-862-3878 or 907-376-4866. My website is to keep you up-to-date on current legislation, etc. If you would like to be on our e-mail list, please let us know.
There are town meetings scheduled for the Chugiak/Eagle River area this session, starting on Friday, February 12th, from 4pm to 6pm, at Garcia's Restaurant in Eagle River. I hope to see you there. There are many critical issues that face Alaska and your voice does make a difference.
The bottom line is "You have my ear and I will be a voice for your concerns. This is about teamwork, so let's work together for the good of all." # # # |
