The Twenty-first Alaska Legislature joins Alaskan of the Year, Inc. in tribute to the Honorable Ted Stevens, United States Senator for Alaska on occasion of being named "ALASKAN OF THE CENTURY."

The dawn of a new millennium-century affords Alaskans unique moments to reflect on our past. As we pause to consider the greatness of many heroes who brought us thus far, we consider our collective progress as a state and we search ourselves singly for the qualities we wish to emulate for posterity. We find pride in the fact that Alaska has fulfilled so much of the destiny that was our promise at statehood. We find pride, too, in our resolve that a better Alaska is the result of many better selves. The Alaskan of the Century must be a person of uncommon devotion to Alaska the state, and to Alaskans as individuals; one who has labored at the oars of the ship of state; who captained it through political tempests; and who inspires us still to brighter horizons in the future. We recognize United States Senator Ted Stevens as such a man.

Ted Stevens' career in Alaska started in Fairbanks during 'territorial days' where he practiced law before being appointed U.S. Attorney in 1953. In a moment of cogent insight not duplicated since, the Department of Interior tapped him to become Legislative Counsel in Washington, D.C., a position from which he played a key role in securing statehood for Alaska. He was elevated to the position of Solicitor in 1960. His subsequent return to private law practice in Anchorage, his role as Majority Leader in House of Representatives, his appointment and many elections to the U.S. Senate are well recorded. His legislative accomplishments are legion, also well recorded and unmatched in Alaska's history. They alone are worthy of the tribute herein.

But, we find more. Ted Stevens, the man, his character, and his devotion to Alaska distinguish him as the Alaskan of the Century. He is the first to proclaim that none of his achievements are made without help from others. Always generous in appreciation for his co-members in Alaska's congressional delegation, he works in bipartisan fashion with all federal, state and local officials for the sake of progress for Alaska.

Throughout his career, Senator Stevens has exemplified the politics of inclusion. After being appointed to succeed the late US Senator E.L. "Bob" Bartlett, Stevens carried on Bartlett's legislative initiatives and embraced Bartlett's staff although they were of a different political party. Similarly, Stevens befriended the late territorial governor and U.S. Senator Ernest Gruening. Both of these gentlemen were giants in Alaska's struggle for statehood. Ted Stevens honors their memory and builds on their accomplishments. Today, Stevens' US Senate office is a virtual training ground for young Alaskans of every political and cultural stripe who are interested in government and politics. From his example, they learn devotion to duty and respect for differences among people. They see a model of success borne by the dint of hard work. We are grateful that many of Alaska's future political leaders will carry the imprint from Senator Stevens' office.

Patriotism and courage are consistent themes in Ted Stevens' career. As a military pilot in the famed 14th Air Force's, "Flying Tigers," during World War II he flew "over the hump" and in China. Throughout his Senate career he has been an unflinching advocate for a strong military posture. Steeped in the intricacies of national security and military preparedness, his expertise earns him a vital role in international negotiation, planning and deployment of national defense assets. Senator Ted Stevens is himself an asset to the United States and represents Alaska's finest contribution to our national leadership.

Yet, for all his responsibilities and the demands on his time, Senator Stevens remains an integral part of the Alaskan family. He maintains personal contact with thousands of Alaskans, sharing in our celebratory times and caring in our painful ones. He has an enduring connection with the hearts and minds of Alaskans. In the grand sweep of Alaska's history, Ted Stevens has wielded the biggest broom. The Alaska Legislature is proud to participate in recognition of U.S. Senator Ted Stevens as ALASKAN OF THE CENTURY.

Date: March 22, 2000

Cosponsors: Senators Adams, Donley, Ellis, Elton, Green, Halford, Hoffman, Pete Kelly, Tim Kelly, Leman, Lincoln, Mackie, Miller, Parnell, Pearce, Phillips, Taylor, Torgerson, Ward, Wilken; Representatives Austerman, Barnes, Berkowitz, Brice, Bunde, Cissna, Coghill, Jr., Cowdery, Croft, Davies, Davis, Dyson, Foster, Green, Grussendorf, Halcro, Harris, Hudson, James, Joule, Kapsner, Kemplen, Kerttula, Kohring, Kookesh, Kott, Masek, Morgan, Moses, Mulder, Murkowski, Ogan, Phillips, Rokeberg, Sanders, Smalley, Therriault, Whitaker, Williams