Governor Sarah Palin, with Jeff Roy, National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, pins the Purple Heart Medal on Wayne Stackhouse, with his wife, Ilene by his side. Also pictured, the Operation Denali climbing team, who begin their ascent of North America's tallest mountain on June 1, 2009.

Anchorage resident Wayne Stackhouse, after receiving his Purple Heart Medal and Viet Nam Service Medal, stated "I don't think I've ever been more proud to be a Viet Nam veteran."

Governor Sarah Palin with Ron Siebels, Department Commander of the Alaska Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, after the Purple Heart presentation ceremony at VFW Post 10252.

Governor Sarah Palin was on hand to celebrate with the inspiring Operation Denali team when Jeff Roy, National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and Bill Wroolie, Board Director of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation presented the team with a check for $25,000. Also pictured, U.S. Sen. Mark Begich and son, Jacob.

Commentary

Oftentimes, soldiers are recommended for medals, and in the fog of war those recommendations are forgotten about and the soldier does not receive the medal until years later. That is likely what happened with Mr. Stackhouse. This blog author is familiar with this type of situation, because his uncle, an 86-year-old WW II vet was recommended for the Silver Star, but got injured shortly thereafter -- and the recommendation letter was burnt in the St. Louis fire a few years back that destroyed many military records. A former co-worker of this author's also needed a letter written for a friend who was to have received a Purple Heart arising out of a Viet Nam injury. This author helped the co-worker with the letter and his friend ultimately received the Purple Heart.

Governor Palin's presentation of the Purple Heart and support of Operation Denali is more a positive reflection of who she is as a human being than an accomplishment item in the strictest sense of the term, but it also does highlight who she is as her state's Commander in Chief. Governor Palin is a friend to our soldiers and will never forget those who served. This author saw that first-hand at one of her rallies in Bethlehem, PA on October 8, 2008. Before she began her speech, she asked anyone who served to raise their hand and thanked them for their service. Only after that acknowledgment, did she proceed. Lest anyone forget, on September 11, 2008, Governor Palin's son Track deployed to Iraq -- and she had to see him off along with all the others leaving Ft. Wainwright that day.

References

[Alaska Governor] Sarah Palin [on May 29, 2009] announced her appointments to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority, Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority, Alaska Police Standards Council, Education Commission of the States, and Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶1).

Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA)

The five-member board leads the authority, charged with promoting economic growth and diversification by providing financing for industry, manufacturing, power transmission interties, and export and business enterprises in Alaska. Some of its high-profile projects include the port facilities for the Red Dog zinc mine, the Healy Clean Coal Project, the Anchorage Federal Express aircraft maintenance facility and the Ketchikan Shipyard (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶3).

Governor Palin appointed Michael T. Felix, and reappointed John R. Winther, to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) board of directors (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶2).

Michael T. Felix's Biography

Felix, of Anchorage, is president of AT&T Alascom. An electrical engineer, he has served in a number of executive positions in the telecommunications industry, including: senior vice president of sales for Vsys, Inc. of Denver; president/COO of LifeServ Technologies, Inc. of Florida; executive vice president/COO of Precision Systems, Inc. of Florida; several management and technical positions with Sprint Corporation in Atlanta; and senior engineer for Tampa Electric Company. He has served on the board of directors for four private emerging technology companies, and now serves on the board of the Foraker Group, the University of Alaska Foundation, and Commonwealth North. Felix earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of South Florida in Tampa in 1978 (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶3).

Felix was appointed to a public seat (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶4).

John R. Winter's Biography

Winther, of Petersburg, has been a commercial fisherman and businessman in Alaska for more than 40 years. A lifelong Alaskan, he is currently managing partner of Petersburg-based Prowler Fisheries, and owns a Bering Sea crab fishing vessel. He served as director of Icicle Seafoods from 1980-92 and also served on the North Pacific Fisheries Management Council from 1983-89. Winther is a founder of Winstar Petroleum and Ultrastar Exploration, both Alaskan-owned independent oil companies with leases on the North Slope (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶5).

Winther has served on the authority board since 2003, and was reappointed to a public seat (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶6).

Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority

The authority, led by a seven-member board of directors, was created by statewide voter initiative in 2002. Its statutory mission is to develop a natural gas pipeline from the North Slope to Prince William Sound or Cook Inlet (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶7).

Governor Palin appointed William R. Jeffress and Brian D. Rogers, and reappointed Kathryn K. Lamal, to the Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶6).

William R. Jeffress' Biography

Jeffress, of Anchorage, is principal consultant and manager for the Alaska office of SRK Consulting Engineers and Scientists. He has nearly 20 years experience as environmental manager and engineer at Nevada and Alaska mines, including Alaska’s Donlin Creek, True North, and Fort Knox mines. He also directed the Alaska Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Project Management and Permitting, and was a timber company owner, federal inspector and construction manager in the Lower 48. He has been a member of the Alaska State Board of Forestry and the Alaska Miners Association, and vice president of regulatory affairs for the Council of Alaska Producers. Jeffress earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the University of Nevada, Reno (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶8).

Jeffress was appointed to a public seat (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶9).

Brian D. Rogers' Biography

Rogers, of Fairbanks, is an educational administrator and former public official and economic policy analyst. He had been interim chancellor of the University of Alaska Fairbanks since 2008, and was recently named chancellor. Rogers was vice president of finance for the University of Alaska from 1988-95, and served on the university’s Board of Regents from 1999-2007. He was chief financial officer for Information Insights, a Fairbanks public policy consulting firm, from 1996 to 2008. He represented Fairbanks in the Alaska House of Representatives from 1979 to 1983, and chaired the State of Alaska Long-Range Planning Commission from 1995 to 1996. Rogers earned a master’s degree in public administration from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶10).

Rogers was appointed to a public seat (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶11).

Kathryn K. Lamal's Biography

Lamal, of Fairbanks, has been vice president for power supply of Golden Valley Electric Association since 2001, and was the cooperative’s environmental officer from 1993 to 2001. She also has more than 12 years of experience in environmental geology and exploration geology in Alaska, including work with Dames & Moore, Shannon & Wilson, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the U.S. Bureau of Mines, and her own consulting firm. Lamal earned a bachelor’s degree in geology from the University of Washington in Seattle in 1980, and a master’s degree in geology from Western Washington University in Bellingham in 1983 (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶12).

Lamal has served on the board since 2007, and was reappointed to a public seat (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶13).

Alaska Police Standards Council

The 13-member council establishes and enforces minimum standards for employment, training and retention of police, corrections, probation and parole officers in Alaska (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶15).

Governor Palin appointed Kelly C. Alzaharna to the Alaska Police Standards Council (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶14).

Kelly C. Alzaharna's Biography

Alzaharna, of Barrow, has been chief of the North Slope Borough Police Department since 2008, and has worked for the department since 1990 in positions including operations commander, training coordinator, tactical team leader, investigations officer and armorer. She also worked three years for police departments in New Mexico. Her professional associations include the International Association of Chiefs of Police, National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, and Alaska Association of Chiefs of Police. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from New Mexico State University in 1985, and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Azusa Pacific University in Los Angeles in 2005. She also received training at the F.B.I. National Academy in 1999 (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶16).

Alzaharna was appointed to a position reserved for a police chief or administrator (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶17).

Education Commission of the States

The commission is a national organization of states which cooperates in developing, debating and advancing public policy relating to education. Each member state has seven commission members, representing state government, higher education, public education and the public (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶19).

Governor Palin appointed Karl R. Wing, and reappointed Carl Rose, to the Education Commission of the States (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶18).

Karl R. Wing's Biography

Wing, of Anchorage, is studying political science at the University of Alaska Anchorage, where he is an active leader in student government. He is the former student body president of UAA, and has been a student senator and vice president of the UAA Assembly. He is working to establish the Foundation for the American Constitution in Education, a non-profit organization to improve civics and constitutional law education in public schools. Born in Fairbanks and raised in Anchorage, he has been chair of the Anchorage Municipal Youth Advisory Commission, a member of the Mayor's Obesity Advisory Board, and a six-time recipient of the U.S. President’s Volunteer Service Award (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶20).

Wing was appointed to a public at-large seat (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶21).

Karl Rose's Biography

Rose, of Skagway, has been executive director of the Association of Alaska School Boards since 1987, and was president of the organization from 1983 to 1984. He has been closely involved with the development and implementation of educational policy and reform issues in Alaska. He served on the local school board in Skagway from 1974 to 1987, and owned a local restaurant there from 1982 to 1997. A U.S. Navy veteran, Rose has a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Washington (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶22).

Rose has served on the commission since 2000, and was reappointed to a public at-large seat (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶23).

Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children

The compact seeks to reduce disruption in the education of children whose parents are subject to military deployment or transfer by establishing standard policies on issues including graduation requirements, school start ages, immunizations and special education placement. Alaska is one of 20 member states to have joined the compact since it was established in 2008 with support from the Council of State Governments (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶25).

Governor Palin appointed Larry LeDoux as the state’s representative to the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶24).

Larry LeDoux's Biography

LeDoux, of Juneau, has been commissioner of the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development since 2008. He was previously superintendent of the Kodiak Island Borough School District, where he also held numerous administrative posts. He served as principal of North Star Elementary School, and was a teacher and principal at Kodiak High School. LeDoux has earned three degrees from the University of Alaska Fairbanks: a bachelor’s degree in biology, a master’s degree in science and biology education, and an education specialist degree in administration with an emphasis in Alaska Native studies (Nine Appointments, 2009, ¶26).

Commentary

Governor Palin has made 66 appointments and re-appointments this year, including two judicial appointments and one state senate appointment. In the 150 days that have passed this year, she has averaged one appointment every two and one quarter days.

References

Governor announces board appointments. (2009, May 29). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 30, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1870

The editorial board of Investor's Business Daily wrote a piece supporting Governor Palin's positions on using domestic energy resources. Following are some of the more salient quotes:

"As administration officials tilt at windmills and talk of painting our roofs white, a real energy solution has emerged from the Arctic deep. So why has only Alaska's Sarah Palin noticed?" (IBD, 2009, ¶1).

"It's a very nonsensical position we're in right now," Palin told us. "(We) ask the Saudis to ramp up production of crude oil so that hungry markets in America can be fed, (and) your sister state in Alaska has those resources" (IBD, 2009, ¶3).

Today, Science magazine reports that the U.S. Geological Survey now finds it holds more than anyone thought — 1.6 trillion cubic feet of undiscovered gas, or 30% of the world's supply and 83 billion barrels of undiscovered oil, 4% of the global conventional resources (IBD, 2009, ¶5).

That's enough U.S. energy to achieve self-sufficiency and never worry about it as a national security question again (IBD, 2009, ¶6).

"Alaska should be the head, not the tail, to the energy solution," Palin said (IBD, 2009, ¶9).

According the IBD, if we do not drill, the Russians -- who want to dominate global energy markets will. Com-bloc nations are not exactly known for environmentally friendly techniques either (IBD, 2009, ¶11).

Commentary

This IBD editorial is a must-read and should be read in its entirety. While our Secretary of Energy talks silliness such as painting roofs white as if that will produce energy (what exactly is he smoking???), Governor Palin is talking sense. We have oil and gas resources right here. We should use them. Period. There is absolutely no excuse why we should be importing over 60% of our energy resources.

Wind turbines have their place -- and Governor Palin has advocated their use as well -- but they are a supplement, not a principal source of energy. If we are to remain a civilized, advanced nation, we need to use energy -- pure energy -- and today that means oil and gas. We should be drilling; we should be building refineries, and in this author's opinion we should have one standard for automotive gas -- forget all these different additives for each state in the union. Auto gas should be auto gas except for its differing octane levels. This is all common sense -- clearly lacking in DC, and clearly present in Wasilla, Alaska.

References

Seeing Chukchi. (2009, May 29). Investor's Business Daily. Retrieved May 30, 2009 from: http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=328490377890596

Governor Palin expressed her concerns about North Korea's missile tests on May 29, 2009 and proposed budget cuts to Alaska's missile defense system. Her release follows in its entirety below:

"[Alaska Governor] Sarah Palin called on ... Obama to take a firm stand against North Korea and defend the states and territories of the United States of America and American allies on the Korean peninsula (North Korea, 2009, ¶1).

This morning, North Korea launched its sixth short-range missile since Monday’s nuclear test. North Korea has also stated that it is no longer bound by the 1953 armistice that ended the Korean War. Further ... Obama has proposed a $1.4 billion reduction of the Missile Defense Agency’s budget (North Korea, 2009, ¶2).

“The United Nations sanctions have failed to stop North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons, and the Obama Administration cannot afford to be playing catch-up to an irrational dictator like Kim Jong-Il,” said Governor Palin. “Missile Defense Agency funding must be fully restored in the federal budget to guarantee our protective measures remain the best in the world. Fort Greely plays a crucial role in the nation’s security”(North Korea, 2009, ¶3).

Alaska is home to the largest ground-based mid-course defense missile shield in North America. Because of its geographical position and proximity to potential targets, Alaska plays a critical role in national security and in the defense of American allies (North Korea, 2009, ¶4).

Ground missile defense is the cornerstone of the Missile Defense Agency’s multi-layered architecture. It is designed to detect, track, discriminate, intercept and destroy long- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during the mid-course phase of flight. The weapons system consists of land-, sea- and space-based sensors, command and control operations, and silo-based interceptors that are located at Vandenberg AFB, California and Fort Greely (North Korea, 2009, ¶5).

Commentary

"Peace through Strength." This Ronald Reagan phrase though not uttered by Governor Palin sums up her position on Alaska's missile defense. For those of us who believe in peace through strength, Governor Palin's position is -- or should be -- common sense. You do not cut funding to a missile defense system in a state located near both Russia and North Korea -- both nations having ramped up their saber-rattling since -- oh -- around January 20, 2009.

Funding for missile defense should be INCREASED! More missile interceptors should be installed at Fort Greely and the Kodiak Launch Facility -- not less.

Governor Palin knows and understands peace through strength -- her forebear would be proud. She has shared strategic command over the 49th Missile Defense Battalion, complete command over the Alaska State Defense Force, and the concomitant security clearances. She is ready, and fit to stand guard over the collective house we call the USA.

Obama's teleprompter loaded with eloquent speeches will not keep our nation safe. Nor will the United Nations' mealy-mouthed resolutions. History has proven since time immemorial that nice words are simply that -- nice words.

Governor Palin's command experience and HER missile interceptors, along with HER M-4 and .50 Beowulf variant -- Alaska Hunter -- will keep our nation safe.

What do you want? This?

Or this...

The photo of Governor Palin was shot in 2006. That's why the caption says "five years." It's now nearly eight years since the last successful attack on our soil. Governor Palin already had command experience while a former street agitator turned Senator was spending his entire time voting present and campaigning for a job that's clearly way over his head.

References

Governor urges President to stand firm against North Korea: rogue nation’s capability to attack Alaska and Hawaii cannot be ignored. (2009, May 29). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 30, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1871

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin made eight appointments to five boards on May 27, 2009: Alaska Public Offices Commission, Fishermen’s Fund Advisory and Appeals Council, Governor’s Council on Disabilities and Special Education, Knik Arm Bridge and Toll Authority, and State Officers Compensation Commission (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶1)

Alaska Public Offices Commission

The five-member commission administers laws upholding the public’s right to know the financial affairs of state and municipal public officials and candidates, and of lobbyists and their employers. It adopts regulations, issues advisory opinions, recommends changes in state law, administers penalties for failure to comply with reporting requirements and adjudicates complaints, and can recommend removal of candidates from the ballot or office (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶3).

Each of the state’s currently top-two political parties is allocated two seats on the commission, and for each vacancy must offer four candidates from which the governor must appoint one. The fifth commissioner is nominated by majority vote of the other four commissioners and appointed by the governor, and is not required to represent any particular political party (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶4).

Governor Palin appointed Kathleen J. King to the Alaska Public Offices Commission (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶2).

Kathleen J. King's Biography

King, of Anchorage, has been a senior technical writer for Arctic Slope Regional Corporation since 2007. She was a writer and analyst for the state court system from 2004-2007, and was an advanced paralegal for the state Department of Law from 1988 to 2004. She received a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Texas, Arlington in 1980, and a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Alaska Anchorage in 2009 (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶5).

She was nominated by the commission and appointed by the governor (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶6).

Fishermen’s Fund Advisory and Appeals Council

The six-member council consults with the commissioner of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development regarding appeals filed concerning the care of Alaska licensed commercial fishermen who have been injured while fishing in Alaska. The council also oversees the administration of the Fishermen’s Fund, which uses a portion of commercial fishing licenses and permit fees to fund medical care and benefits for injured commercial fishermen (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶8).

Governor Palin reappointed Larry Bartman to the Fishermen’s Fund Advisory and Appeals Council (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶7).

Larry Bartman's Biography

Bartman, of Manokotak, is a technology liaison with the Southwest Region School District in Dillingham and since 1978 has been a commercial driftnet and setnet fisherman in Bristol Bay. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education and worked as a middle school math and science teacher in New Stuyahok, Mentasta Lake and Point Hope (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶9).

He was reappointed to a seat representing District 4, covering the waters west of the Alaska Peninsula to Cape Newenham, including Bristol Bay (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶10).

Governor’s Council on Disabilities and Special Education

The council is the interdepartmental planning and coordinating agency of the state Department of Health and Social Services and other departments offering services or special education to disabled Alaskans. It also operates as the state disability/special education planning council under federal law, and works with the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority on the state’s integrated program for the mentally disabled. At least 60 percent of the members must be people with disabilities, or parents of people with disabilities (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶12).

Governor Palin reappointed Marlene “Anna” Attla, Milton “Smitty” Cheemuk, Kathleen L. Fitzgerald and Lelia “Lucy” Odden to the Governor’s Council on Disabilities and Special Education (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶11).

Marlene "Anna" Attla's Biography

Attla, of Anchorage, has experience as an educator and counselor of Alaskans with disabilities who also have problems with substance abuse. A certified traditional alcohol counselor, she has worked at a group home as a peer counselor, and as a volunteer for the Arc of Anchorage. Her community service includes membership on the boards of People First of Anchorage Alaska, which provides peer support and advocacy; the Special Education Service Agency, which helps school districts teach students with disabilities; Assets, Inc., an employment assistance program; and the Alaska Mental Health Trust. Attla has received awards for her work in community alcohol education (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶13).

She has served on the council since 2002, and was reappointed to a seat representing people with disabilities (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶14).

Milton "Smitty" Cheemuk's Biography

Cheemuk, of St. Michael, has worked at St. Michael’s school as community education coordinator, and for the Native Village of St. Michael through the AmeriCorps Services program. He served two years as vice mayor of St. Michael, served as a member of a Bering Straits regional coastal policy council, and is a board member for the Special Education Service Agency. He graduated from Mt. Edgecumbe High School in 1984 and attended Sheldon Jackson College in Sitka (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶15).

Cheemuk has served on the council since 2005, and was reappointed to a seat representing people with disabilities (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶16).

Kathleen L. Fitzgerald's Biography

Fitzgerald, of Anchorage, has worked at the University of Alaska Anchorage’s Center for Human Development since 1995 in programs aimed at empowering Alaskans with disabilities. She has coordinated the Partners in Policymaking program since 2006, helping train disabled Alaskans for leadership and advocacy. She was a program development specialist from 2003-06, and coordinator of the Family Resource Project from 1995 to 2003. Fitzgerald has chaired the Governor’s Council’s Autism Ad Hoc Committee since 2003; served the Arc of Anchorage as board member, president or other capacity from 1989 to 2007; was Key Coalition of Alaska’s president from 1996 to 2002; been on the Stone Soup Group steering committee since 1992; and held various positions with the Alaska chapter of the Autism Society of America since 1990 (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶17).

She is the mother of an adult child with autism. Fitzgerald has been on the council since 1993, and was reappointed to a seat representing university-affiliated programs for those with disabilities (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶18).

Lelia “Lucy” Odden's Biography

Odden, of Anchorage, has worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service since 1980, and previously worked for the University of Alaska Anchorage’s admissions office. Her community service includes work as a board member for the Arc of Anchorage, the Special Olympics, and Assets, Inc. She has also been a member and president of People First’s board of directors, and has been active in the Key Campaign, lobbying state legislators on behalf of programs for those with disabilities. Odden graduated from Bartlett High School in 1982 (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶19).

She has been on the council since 2005, and was reappointed to a seat representing people with disabilities (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶20).

Knik Arm Bridge and Toll Authority

The authority, led by a five-member board of directors, was created by the Alaska State Legislature in 2003 to facilitate construction of a bridge across Knik Arm connecting the Municipality of Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶22).

Governor Palin appointed Janet A. Kincaid to the Knik Arm Bridge and Toll Authority (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶21).

Janet A. Kincaid's Biography

Kincaid, of Palmer, is a business owner and public official who has lived in the Matanuska-Susitna area since 1961. Kincaid served on the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Planning Commission from 1992-94, and on the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly from 1992-98, including service as deputy borough mayor from 1996-98. She then served on the borough’s Platting Board from 2000-07. Kincaid was elected to the Matanuska Electric Association board of directors in 2008. She is a longtime member, and two-term past president of the Palmer Chamber of Commerce, was a member of the Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau board of directors, and is a member of advisory boards for The Salvation Army in the Mat-Su Borough and Anchorage (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶23).

She was appointed to a public seat on the authority board representing residents of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶24).

State Officers Compensation Commission

The five-member commission created by the Alaska State Legislature in 2008 is charged with making adjustments in the pay, benefits and allowances of top state officials, including legislators, commissioners, the governor and the lieutenant governor (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶26).

Governor Palin reappointed Mike Miller to the State Officers Compensation Commission (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶25).

Mike Miller's Biography

Miller, of North Pole, is owner of the Santa Claus House store in North Pole. Miller served as commissioner of the Department of Administration from 2002-04, and represented the North Pole area in the Alaska State Legislature from 1983-2001, including five terms in the House, and one term in the Senate which included two years as Senate President. He belongs to the North Pole Chamber of Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Business. A lifelong Alaskan, Miller graduated from Monroe High School in Fairbanks, attended the University of Alaska Fairbanks and served in the Alaska Air National Guard (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶27).

He was reappointed with the concurrence of Senator Gary Stevens, the president of the Alaska State Senate (Eight Appointments, 2009, ¶28).

Commentary

Governor Palin has made 57 appointments and re-appointments this year, including two judicial appointments and one state senate appointment. In the 148 days that have passed this year, she has averaged one appointment every two and one half days. All of Governor Palin's appointees have served well. Only a seasoned executive could make quality hiring decisions at the frequency she does.

References

Governor makes board appointments. (2009, May 27). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 28, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1868

Governor Sarah Palin joined officials and guests at a Juneteenth Book Dedication Ceremony at the Z.J. Loussac Library on May 22, 2009.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin was presented with a copy of Charles A. Taylor’s “Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom,” by Reverend Ronald Myers at the Juneteenth book dedication ceremony held at the Z.J. Loussac Library in Anchorage.

Commentary

This author finds it interesting that in major cities where there are significant African-American populations, this holiday which commemorates the end of slavery (a truly ugly and evil institution) is virtually unheard of. This blog author never heard of Juneteenth Day until he started supporting Governor Palin.

The Governor's enemies have on several occasions tried to portray her as being racist or having racist tendencies, including a flap involving a proclamation for this holiday a while back. That is yet another application of Saul Alinksy's Rules for Radicals -- negate the positive and cast the subject as a hypocrite.

The truth is, Governor Palin is a leader for ALL people, and Alaska is a diverse state. Yes, there are African-Americans in Alaska...and Sikhs, and Jews, and others. Governor Palin has celebrated and shared in all her constituent's holidays and has mourned with them as well. Her enemies might talk a good game about caring for the weak, vulnerable, downtrodden, and minorities -- but Governor Palin walks the walk.

References

History of Juneteenth. (2008). Juneteenth.com. Retrieved May 27, 2009 from: http://www.juneteenth.com/history.htm

Photos retrieved from and courtesy of: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/photos.php

On May 27, 2009, the Alaska State Personnel Board dismissed yet another ethics complaint against Governor Palin -- this being the 13th -- finding it to be baseless and without merit. As with several others, this complaint was dismissed based on a simple review of the law; hearings were not even necessary (Ethics Complaint, 2009, ¶1-3). Andree McLeod, became a vocal critic of the Governor's since being denied employment by the state last year (Ethics Complaint, 2009, ¶2). She filed her eight-allegation complaint in March 2009, and amended it several times since then (Ethics Complaint, 2009, ¶3-5).

“While the complaint process under the ethics act can be a useful tool for holding state officials accountable, it’s obvious that political opponents of the governor have been abusing the system, attempting to turn their resentments into legal issues,” said Bill McAllister, the governor’s communications director. “We’re grateful that the personnel board and its investigators have taken a rational approach to these matters, finding that the vast majority of the complaints did not even warrant the collection of evidence because they failed to assert any violation of the law” (Ethics Complaint, 2009, 4).

The complainant, "McLeod said that there were two matters showing an improper connection between the governor’s office and her political action committee; that two comments made by McAllister about the governor’s travel plans were political in nature; that the governor’s trip to Evansville, Indiana, for a right to life event used state resources, and that she improperly accepted gifts there, including chocolate, baked goods and a hockey stick from a youth hockey group; that the governor’s daughter, Bristol, used state resources in her efforts on behalf of the Candies Foundation; and that the governor’s press release concerning her selection as a vice presidential candidate was improper. Geraghty found all of the allegations to be baseless and not worthy of an investigation" (Ethics Complaint, 2009, 5).

Commentary

It is patently obvious that these baseless ethics complaints against Governor Palin all have ulterior motives attached to them. In this case, McLeod has a beef with the Governor, because she applied for and was denied a state job. Upon being denied the job, she became one of Governor Palin's enemies. So, she came up with allegations, half of them mirroring those filed by other complainants -- which were similarly dismissed -- and threw them at the Governor hoping at least one would stick.

The remaining complaints have been filed to a one by left-wing bloggers, and Democrat operatives using the ethics complaint process as part of Saul Alinksy's Rules for Radicals, the specific rules here being negate the positive" and "show the target as being a hypocrite."

The Governor's release stated that a few more complaints remain pending." That few is likely to be two. When ethics complaints within Alaska's system was last addressed here, 11 had been dismissed leaving three outstanding. The 12th one to be dismissed was lodged at the federal level. This would be the 12th one within Alaska's system to be dismissed (but 13th overall) out of 14, leaving two.

While we're on the subject of ethics complaints if you have not already donated to the Alaska Fund Trust, or have donated less than $150, please consider a donation there to be top priority. Donors may donate up to $150 per calendar year cumulatively or in a single donation to this fund.

References

Another McLeod ethics complaint fails: Officially found to lack merit. (2009, May 27). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 27, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1869

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin reads a proclamation declaring May 25, 2009 as Memorial Day in Alaska while at a Memorial Day ceremony in Fairbanks.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin reads a proclamation declaring May 25, 2009 as Memorial Day in Alaska while at a Memorial Day ceremony in Fairbanks.

(from left) Alaska’s First Gentleman Todd Palin and Governor Sarah Palin greet veterans prior to the Memorial Day ceremony in Fairbanks on May 25, 2009.

(center) Alaska Governor Sarah Palin and First Gentleman Todd Plain attend the May 25, 2009 Memorial Day ceremony in Fairbanks.

While at a Memorial Day ceremony in Fairbanks, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin signs Senate Bill 45, which creates a Veterans’ Cemetery in Fairbanks, and House Joint Resolution 10, which is related to Veterans’ Health. Senator Gene Therriault (back right), Senator Joe Paskvan (back center) and Representative David Guttenberg were among those in attendance.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, pictured here with Fairbanks Senator Joe Paskvan, signs six bills before a large crowd outside the North Pole City Hall on May 25, 2009. (center back to right) North Pole Mayor Doug Isaacson, Representative John Coghill and Senator Gene Therriault were also among those in attendance.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin applauds the dedicated efforts of Department of Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Click Bishop, after signing six bills in the North Pole and Fairbanks areas were Bishop spent his youth.

(from left) North Pole Mayor Doug Isaacson introduces Alaska Governor Sarah Palin at a bill signing outside the North Pole City Hall on May 25, 2009. Governor Palin signed six bills: SB 42, 48, 114, 133, 170 and HB 121.

While in Fairbanks for the Memorial Day ceremony on May 25, 2009, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin stopped at Compeau’s to sign House Bill 177 on Marine & Motorized Recreational Products and was joined by Owner Craig Compeau (center) and Representative John Coghill (right).

Photos retrieved May 27, 2009 from: http://gov.state.ak.us/photos.php

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin signed six appropriation bills into law on May 21, 2009. Her complete release on these bills with commentary follows.

[Alaska] Governor Sarah Palin [on May 21, 2009] signed into law six appropriations bills, including House Bill 81, the FY2010 Operating Budget; House Bill 83, the FY2010 Mental Health Operating and Capital Budget; House Bill 113, the FY2009 Supplemental Bill; House Bill 199, the Federal Economic Stimulus Bill; Senate Bill 75, the FY2010 capital budget; and Senate Bill 116, a one-time special appropriation for low-income energy assistance (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶1).

The [G]overnor struck a total of $80.3 million through various line-item reductions in four of the six appropriations bills. HB 83, the mental health operating and capital budget, and SB 116, the energy assistance special appropriation, were signed into law as passed by the legislature (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶2).

“We submitted a responsible, fiscally conservative budget,” Governor Palin said. “Given the current revenue outlook and economic conditions, we must focus on providing essential public services, while continuing to invest in communities and resource development that will fuel our economy in the future" (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶3).

“I am pleased that legislators agreed with us on the importance of slowing the growth of government and focusing on key priority areas of life, safety, transportation, education and infrastructure. The legislature and administration worked hard to minimize the draw from savings at the end of the fiscal year. Our comprehensive review of the budgets confirmed that legislators made a concerted effort to reduce spending. In contrast to prior years, there were very few legislative additions to the budget” (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶4).

The operating budget bill totals $8.7 billion and includes funding for public education, the university, public health and safety, transportation, and resource development (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶5).

“We have taken significant steps to slow government growth and achieve savings in the current fiscal year,” Governor Palin said. “This administration takes fiscal responsibility seriously and reducing expenditures will extend the life of our savings accounts” (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶6)

The [G]overnor vetoed $35 million of a $450 million transfer from the oil and gas tax credit fund to the general fund in order to leave a sufficient balance to pay the FY2009 production tax credits (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶7).

“Direct payment of the production tax credits to explorers and new producers is an important component of the ACES production tax,” Palin said. “Timely payments of the credits are essential for a stable tax structure” (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶8)

Governor Palin also signed HB 83, the state’s mental health operating and capital budget, totaling $201.9 million (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶9).

Additionally, the [G]overnor signed the supplemental bill, HB 113, with the deletion of a fiscal note for legislation that did not pass this session and a [re-appropriation] that was not necessary (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶10).

The federal economic stimulus appropriation bill, HB 199, was signed, and as previously announced, the governor did not accept the $28.6 million for energy funds. The funds are tied to building codes that the state would be required to entice local communities to adopt. The [G]overnor noted that if legislators disagree with her decision, they can express that through a veto override (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶11).

“Alaskans and our communities have a long history of independence and opposing many mandates from Washington, D.C.,” said Governor Palin. “The question of whether or not to adopt energy building codes is best determined by local governments, not Washington, D.C. Alaskans across the state are actively working to reduce energy costs. A federal government mandate is essentially another tax on Alaskans building or renovating a structure, thus increasing costs” (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶12)

The FY2010 capital and operating budgets already include $25.5 million for Alaska Energy Authority projects, $25 million for renewable energy, $38 million for power cost equalization, and $26.4 million for heating assistance, along with hundreds of millions of dollars in conservation efforts (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶13).

“Combined with the significant investments in the current fiscal year, including $260 million for weatherization, $100 million for home energy rebates, and $100 million for renewable energy projects, our commitment is clear in reducing energy costs,” Governor Palin said (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶14).

The [G]overnor made a few line-item changes in HB 199 to delete duplicate or excess authorization to receive federal funds. The [G]overnor also vetoed $200,000 in general funds for two new positions added by legislators to help with implementation and tracking of economic stimulus funds (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶15).

“I have directed state agencies to devote existing resources to meet the requirements without growing government,” Governor Palin said (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶16).

The capital budget bill, SB 75, which totals $1.87 billion, was also signed [May 21, 2009] (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶17).

“This capital budget contains a number of projects, including transportation, schools, and public safety, which will help communities across the state improve infrastructure and bolster the economy,” said Palin. “With the robust capital budgets of the past two years and this capital spending bill, Alaskans will see many improvements and additional job opportunities” (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶18)

After a thorough review of the capital budget, the governor vetoed $11.9 million (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶19).

The final budget bill signed today was SB 116, a special appropriation for energy assistance to eligible residents. These one-time funds will help Alaskans hardest hit by the high cost of energy (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶20).

“I appreciate the legislators working with us on the budget during these challenging economic times,” Governor Palin said. “The conservative spending plan I signed today will provide basic government services, leverage additional federal and other funds, and make a significant investment in Alaska’s future” (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶21)

For more information on the signed budgets, please visit the Office of Management and Budget website at http://omb.alaska.gov/ (Appropriations Bills, 2009, ¶22)

Commentary

The crux to this story is in paragraph four. It bears call-out:

"...slowing the growth of government and focusing on key priority areas of life, safety, transportation, education and infrastructure. The legislature and administration worked hard to minimize the draw from savings at the end of the fiscal year."

On that basis, she vetoed appropriations that were duplications or simply not necessary. And...true to her word, Governor Palin did veto the $28.6 million in poisoned stimulus money -- the poison in this case being state-wide building codes that would cost the state money to adopt and result in federal interference.

The foregoing is the principle that has driven Governor Palin's budget processes and financial administration since her days on the PTA nearly two decades ago. Small government, focusing on key priorities, and extending savings form the backbone of the Governor's financial decisions. While most states -- with stable tax bases -- run humongous deficits, even in this bad economic time, Alaska with its unstable petroleum-driven tax base is talking about extending the life of its savings accounts. That's right. Savings accounts.

And while not directly relevant to these bills, regular readers probably remember when Governor Palin set her budget based on on an average oil price of $70/barrel and prices had crashed to around $35/barrel at the time. Critics were howling. Guess where the prices are now? $62.45/barrel of light crude as of this writing (CNN Commodities, 2009). And climbing....approaching $70. Governor Palin and her state are not in the business of running a spot market, but her projections nailed it dead it, the protestations of her critics notwithstanding....

The line item veto is a tool that President Reagan vigorously called for -- he wanted it written into the Constitution as an amendment. Unfortunately, we do not have the line item veto at the federal level, but the Governor of Alaska has it -- and she uses it with telling effect. Indeed if Governor Palin's forebear were alive today, he would stand proud of the woman who carries his torch....

References

Commodities - Latest trading prices and data from CNNMoney.com. (2009, May 27). CNN. Retrieved May 27, 2009 from: http://money.cnn.com/data/commodities/

Governor Palin signs budget bills conservative spending plan implemented for FY2010. (2009, May 21). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 27, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1858

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin on May 25, 2009 officially requested a federal declaration of disaster for the spring 2009 floods which devastated the state's interior (Declaration, 2009, ¶1). FEMA's data concurs with the state's assessment that the threshold for federal disaster declaration was met (Declaration, 2009, ¶2). The floods left hundreds of people homeless, destroyed 300 buildings and miles of roads (Declaration, 2009, ¶3).

"Multiple state agencies are working together to help recovery efforts move as quickly and as smoothly as possible. The Department of Environmental Conservation is testing water and the Department of Health and Social Services is giving tetanus shots to workers to help keep people safe. The Department of Transportation and Public Facilities is rebuilding roads and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is providing all of the logistical support to provide potable water, food, and lines of communication" (Declaration, 2009, ¶4)

The disaster declaration was executed in Faibanks. Governor Palin signed nine bills as part of her Memorial Day trip there and to North Pole.

In Fairbanks, Governor Palin next read her Memorial Day proclamation previously posted here. She then signed Senate Bill 45 (SB45) and House Joint Resolution 10 (HJR10). SB45 "sponsored by Senators Gene Therriault and Charlie Huggins, directs the [Alaska] Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to pursue the creation of a U.S. Department of Military and Veterans Affairs-approved cemetery where veterans can receive their full burial rights (Nine Bills, 2009, ¶1). HJR10 is a resolution urging the US Congress to improve health care for veterans (HJR10, 2009, ¶1).

Following is a partial listing of bills signed:

Senate Bill 142, sponsored by Senator Joe Paskvan, transfers five acres of land from the Alaska Railroad to the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. This will allow the state to reconstruct Illinois Street, which provides primary access to downtown Fairbanks (Nine Bills, 2009, ¶4).

Senate Bill 114, sponsored by Senator Paskvan, extends the State Board of Registration for Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors until June 30, 2017 (Nine Bills, 2009, ¶5).

Senate Bill 133, sponsored by Senator Paskvan, modernizes Alaska’s health care IT infrastructure by developing a secure electronic Health Information Exchange system to improve the safety, cost-effectiveness, and quality of health care in Alaska (Nine Bills, 2009, ¶6).

Senate Bill 48, sponsored by Senator Therriault, exempts municipal service area boards from the requirements of conducting meetings open to the public when a meeting is administrative or managerial in nature (Nine Bills, 2009, ¶7).

House Bill 121, sponsored by Representative John Coghill, requires the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities to retrofit, where cost-effective, all public facilities within 15 years of the completion of an energy use index database (Nine Bills, 2009, ¶8).

Senate Bill 170, sponsored by Senator Johnny Ellis, modifies the Alaska unemployment insurance statutes by redefining the base period for determining eligibility for unemployment benefits, relating to contributions, interest, penalties, and payments under the Alaska Employment Security Act (Nine Bills, 2009, ¶9).

House Bill 177, sponsored by Representative Coghill, implements consumer protection for ATVs, snowmobiles, boat motors, and other recreational vehicles. HB 177 requires a manufacturer to replace a defective product or refund the price of the product if the product is unusable by the purchaser for more than 30 days in the first year of the purchase (Nine Bills, 2009, ¶10).

Commentary

Most elected officials content themselves to give a speech at Memorial Day parade or service or other related proceeding. But Governor Palin was working, not just speechifying. First, after being satisfied that the conditions for a federal disaster declaration were met for the state's flooded interior, she officially requested one. She then went on a bill-signing tour in Fairbanks and North Pole. The Governor's tweets on her Twitter page, indicate that more bills may have been signed than listed above; therefore, this entry should be considered a partial list. The bills are self-explanatory and do not require further belaboring, but to a one they are bills that will make a positive difference in the lives of the people who live in Alaska.

The signing of SB45 -- creating a veteran's cemetery -- executes the Governor's commitment to veterans beyond mere words. Governor Palin also issued a tweet re-affirming her position that missile defense should not be cut, following the widely reported underground nuclear weapons test conducted by North Korea on May 25, 2009 (Lee, 2009). If North Korea were to do something untoward involving the United States, Alaska would be the first line of defense.....

References

Governor Palin Honors Veterans on Memorial Day. (2009, May 25). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 26, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1866

Governor Palin requests federal disaster declaration: 2009 spring floods one of worst seasons on record. (2009, May 25). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 26, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1865

HJR 10. (2009, May 21). State of Alaska, Legislature. Retrieved May 26, 2009 from: http://www.legis.state.ak.us/basis/get_bill.asp?bill=HJR%2010&session=26

Lee, J.H. (2009, May 25). "Defying world powers, N. Korea conducts nuke test." Associated Press. Retrieved May 26, 2009 from: http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D98DCSF00&show_article=1

Following is Governor Palin's Memorial Day Proclamation in its entirety. Each holiday in Alaska, major or minor as well as days to honor individuals, organizations, or causes is subject to gubernatorial proclamation. These proclamations are routine tasks -- they would not be considered accomplishments; therefore, this is posting is a simple news item. Blog author's commentary follows the proclamation.

WHEREAS, Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 to remember soldiers who died in the Civil War. Since then, our nation has set aside this day each year, for the past 141 years, to honor the memory of American patriots who have fallen in service to our country; and

WHEREAS, from the soldiers’ bravery at Gettysburg to the dedicated troops serving today, our military has confronted dangers, opposed tyranny, and offered hope and opportunity to generations of Americans and those around the world; and

WHEREAS, these courageous men and women have kept the torch of freedom burning brightly by defending our liberty and upholding the promise of our democracy. In their ultimate sacrifice, we see the goodness and courage of an entire nation, and we are reminded that the blessings of freedom demand the high calling of selflessness and great sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, Alaska is blessed to be the home of many military members from all branches of service. While we mourn the loss of all of our lost heroes, we must also celebrate their heroic lives and the better world they helped to shape;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sarah Palin, Governor of the state of Alaska, do hereby proclaim May 25, 2009 as:

Memorial Day

in Alaska, and ask all Alaskans to honor the legacy of our national heroes by remaining committed to America’s ideals and steadfast in our support of our veterans and those in uniform today. I also encourage you to remember the men and women who died selflessly defending our freedoms and American ideals.

Commentary

On Memorial Day, while we're busy cooking the burgers and hot dogs on the grill or perhaps swimming at the beach, we should at least take a pause and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we could be free, and who served this country. That's what this proclamation is about.

Whether you consider yourself Governor Palin's "Number One toady, lackey, and sycophant" -- to steal Curtis Sliwa's line a.ka. a "Palin-bot" -- which this author is unabashedly and proudly -- or you have a seething hatred of her, or something in between, you should remember those who died so that you could express your opinion -- one way or the other -- about her -- and about any other elected official. Memorial Day is a day we should pause, pay respects -- and put politics aside.

We should remember there are still many places in the world where political protest or criticism will get you and your family tortured, jailed, killed -- or most probably -- all of the above. Even in supposed democracies, this goes on. Try organizing a protest against Felipe Calderón in Mexico or any of the governors of that country's 31 states and see where it gets you -- and this is our next door neighbor. This author's wife (a US Permanent resident and citizen of Mexico) can regale you with stories of teachers jailed, tortured and killed for protesting against Ulises Ruiz Ortiz -- governor of the state of Oaxaca, Mexico.

For those of you who are anti-war or maybe disagree with a particular war, Memorial Day is a good day to remember that evil only survives when good people do nothing; evil thrives when good people see something wrong and look the other way. From Lexington and Concord to the shores of Tripoli to places like Gettysburg, and Antietam, Normandy, Iwo Jima, the 38th Parallel, Hanoi, Saigon, Baghdad, and Khandahar -- our people fell so we could be free, and so that evil and tyranny (fascism, communism, and Islamic jihad in its various forms) would be extinguished, unions would be preserved, and slavery -- one of the ugliest of evils -- be abolished.

We as a nation must always stand up and do the right thing. Sometimes standing up and doing the right thing means taking up arms fighting -- and paying the ultimate price.

References

Memorial Day. (2009, May 11). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 24, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/proclamations.php?id=1841.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin on May 21, 2009 requested preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to evaluate residential, commercial and public losses in Alaska's flooded interior, most particularly along the Yukon and Kuskokwim Rivers (PDA, 2009, ¶1).

After state disaster declaration, PDA is the next step in the process for securing a federal disaster declaration and resultant funds (PDA, 2009, ¶2).

"Two PDA teams, made up of local emergency managers, State of Alaska employees, Small Business Administration workers, and FEMA members, will cover the Yukon River and Kuskokwim River starting in Eagle and working their way to the coast," Governor Palin said (PDA, 2009, ¶3).

Governor Palin had visited numerous communities in the affected areas and has made the assessment that the devastation there meets the requirements for a federal declaration of disaster (PDA, 2009, ¶4).

Commentary

This is more of a news item than an accomplishment item, especially if it's just read at face value. The accomplishment item is found by going through the prior entries on this subject. Governor Palin personally and meticulously assessed damage at each of the affected locations. She followed a step-by-step process taking each step when she saw them necessary. Some governors would just knee-jerk and seek out federal funding immediately. Others would freeze and be stuck in "paralysis by analysis" passing the buck and not requesting federal declarations when they should be requested (one need only look back to the antics that went on with the cast of characters involved with Hurricane Katrina -- and yes, the Bush Administration flubbed it every bit as much as Louisiana's governor and New Orleans' Mayor).

The true measure of a leader is how he or she performs in a crisis. While this disaster is virtually unknown outside of Alaska (Alaskans tend to be self-reliant, which contributes much to the downplay of this story), Governor Palin's disciplined approach will ensure that any federal disaster funds are spent wisely.

References

Governor Palin requests preliminary damage assessment from FEMA teams; will evaluate loss and set the stage for federal disaster declaration. (2009, May 21). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 22, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1861

Governor Palin has announced seven winners for this year's North Star Award for International Excellence -- an award she created in 2008 to honor excellence in these nine categories: trade (export of goods), trade (export of services), foreign investment, education, tourism, transportation, cultural exchange, humanitarian exchange or scientific exchange.

Alaska - Governor Sarah Palin has announced the seven companies and international organizations that won the Governor's North Star Awards for International Excellence. The awards were presented by Commissioner Emil Notti at the Export Alaska luncheon in Anchorage, attended by more than 150 Alaskans (North Star, 2009, ¶1).

“I’m proud of our state’s broad range of outstanding international activity,” Governor Palin said. “From export of aviation technology to cultural exchange to the visitor industry, Alaskans know how to promote positive international relations. It’s a privilege to honor this hard-working group (North Star, 2009, ¶2).

“I’m especially pleased to honor one of Alaska’s 13 Native corporations, Koniag, Inc., and the Alutiiq Museum. They persevered together for years to bring a significant collection of Alutiiq masks to Alaska from France to share with all of us” (North Star, 2009, ¶3).

The seven winners of the Governor's North Star Awards for International Excellence are listed below (North Star, 2009, ¶4).

Condor Airlines operates four passenger flights per week between Germany and Alaska from mid-May to mid-September each year. This direct international air service has brought thousands of visitors from German-speaking Europe to the state each year since 1993. This is Alaska’s only nonstop passenger service to Europe (North Star, 2009, ¶5).

ADS-B Technologies, based in Alaska, has exported more than $5 million of next- generation air traffic management technology and has installed ADS-B avionics in more than 500 aircraft worldwide. The company also maintains a network of ADS-B ground stations that spans more than 1,200 miles in central China (North Star, 2009, ¶6).

The Ketchikan-Kanayama Exchange brings Japanese middle school students from Kanayama, Japan each spring to spend time living with Ketchikan families, visiting schools, and participating in local events. Each summer a group of up to 20 Ketchikan students, along with chaperones, travels to Kanayama to live with families there for two weeks and to visit different schools in the area. The exchange program began in 1987 (North Star, 2009, ¶7).

The Alutiiq Museum and Archaeological Repository and Koniag, Inc., have successfully spearheaded the effort to bring a significant collection of 34 Alutiiq masks and one bowl held in France back to Kodiak for exhibit and sharing with the Alutiiq people. The exhibit also traveled to Anchorage. The items, which are part of a larger collection, left Alaska in the 1870s and were taken to France. Alutiiq Museum and Koniag shared one award for their cultural exchange project (North Star, 2009, ¶8).

The Alaska World Affairs Council, founded before Alaska became a state, provides a wide range of educational informative programs. It hosts distinguished lecturers and dignitaries, brings speakers to local schools, provides complimentary student admission to some programs, promotes citizen diplomacy by coordinating educational and professional programs for international professionals from around the world, and coordinates closely with the Juneau World Affairs Council (North Star, 2009, ¶9).

Rotary District 5010 spans the Russian Far East, Alaska and the Yukon. For one of dozens of their humanitarian projects, Alaska Rotarians invited Russian Rotarians and doctors to Alaska for a first-hand look at health care institutions. While in Homer, the group witnessed a Rotary Community Health Fair. As a result of this visit and other work, Rotary International headquarters in the USA provided a $330,000 grant in 2007 to support a three-year program to expand Rotary health fairs in Russia. Fifteen permanent health fair centers in Russia have been established and these centers provided materials and training for health fairs in more than 50 additional cities in Russia (North Star, 2009, ¶10).

For more information about the Governor's North Star Awards for International Excellence, contact Patricia Eckert at (907) 269-7450 (North Star, 2009, ¶11).

Commentary

This commentary was previously posted on April 9, 2009 when nominees were being sought for the award. It is apropos today as well, and is being re-run:

One of the byproducts of the 2008 Presidential campaign was the regular attacks on Governor Palin's international experience. While the establishment of these awards does not constitute foreign policy vis-a-vis relationships between the governments of sovereign nations, it is nonetheless important international experience. Some $3.6 billion per year is exported from the state of Alaska, which is a critical hub for goods destined to and from the Pacific Rim.

Awarding and recognizing businesses involved in the nine aspects of international activity delineated above indicates the Governor's commitment to ensuring that Alaska is and remains an international powerhouse. Though issued as routine press release, which was largely unreported, unstated is the significant underlying international experience that made this North Star Award possible. It was Governor Palin who conceived, developed, and implemented the award; she delineated with clarity its nine categories, and in so doing is fostering continued and increased global trade through her state.

Governor Palin has significant expertise and experience with international trade. Meetings with diplomats, consuls general and other international representatives from all parts of the world are routine for her -- the Governor is for practical purposes operating her own World Trade Center -- something governors of very few states can claim -- and something which she can and should be proud of. She doesn't even need a pair of 110-story offset buildings to operate her WTC from. The breadth and depth of her international experience as President and CEO of her state is preparing Governor Palin to handle international matters on a larger scale -- a very much larger scale....

References

Governor Palin honors international excellence in Alaska. (2009, May 21). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 21, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1854

Following is Governor Palin's release on her vetoing a $28.6 million in federal stimulus funds, which involve federal interference with state matters -- in this case building codes. Commentary follows the release (Veto, 2009, ¶1).

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin announced on May 21, 2009 that, as previously stated, she will veto the $28.6 million in federal “stimulus” funds tied to adoption of building codes by municipalities (Veto, 2009, ¶2).

"Alaskans and our communities have a long history of independence and opposing many mandates from Washington, D.C.,” Governor Palin said. “This principle of maximum self-government for local communities is also set out in our constitution. There isn’t a lot of support for the federal government to coerce Alaska communities to adopt building codes, but lawmakers can always exercise checks and balances by overriding my veto (Veto, 2009, ¶3).

“Our 18 boroughs and unified home-rule municipalities, 145 incorporated cities, and individual Alaskans will continue to be free to fully exercise their discretion regarding local building codes. I do not support coercing our local communities to adopt building codes, which then act as a mandatory tax on Alaskans building or renovating homes or businesses." The governor also noted her commitment to reduce energy costs with ongoing efforts. The FY2010 capital and operating budgets include $25.5 million for Alaska Energy Authority projects, $25 million for renewable energy, $38 million for power cost equalization, and $26.4 million for heating assistance, in addition to hundreds of millions of dollars in conservation efforts (Veto, 2009, ¶4).

“When combined with the significant investments in the current fiscal year, including $260 million for weatherization, $100 million for home energy rebates, and $100 million for renewable energy projects, our commitment is clear,” Governor Palin said. The governor asked for clarification from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) on the requirements for acceptance of the funds in a letter from Chief of Staff Mike Nizich to Energy Secretary Steven Chu, dated May 14 (Veto, 2009, ¶5).

The DOE admitted that the language of section 410 and DOE's own guidance manual and form certification is not appropriate for every state and that implementation of the actions specified in section 410(a) are “outside” the governor’s authority (Veto, 2009, ¶6).

“While I was encouraged by that acknowledgment, I cannot in good conscience agree to use the full authority of state government to ‘promote’ and advocate on behalf of Washington, D.C., that our communities adopt the building codes or their equivalent,” said the governor (Veto, 2009, ¶7).

Federal law and guidance require the governor to certify in writing that the state would adopt a statewide energy building code or provide an "assurance" that every jurisdiction with the authority to adopt a building code "will implement" the required one. Most of Alaska’s 114 second-class cities have chosen to not even adopt regular building codes, much less a specialized energy building code with mandates even concerning the types and quantities of light bulbs in a structure (Veto, 2009, ¶8).

“I am also concerned about costs in training and certifying inspectors and who will pay for their travel and other costs to look over the shoulder of Alaskans renovating part of their house, such as replacing windows,” said the governor. “We’re continuing our efforts at the state level to become energy efficient through funding programs such as the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation weatherization plan and to develop renewable energy sources, such as the Swan Lake-Tyee intertie, along with renewable energy projects under HB 152. Our efforts will continue without ceding control by local government, which is the most responsive and responsible level of government” (Veto, 2009, ¶9)

The law states in Section 410 on energy funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: (Veto, 2009, ¶10)

“The state, or the applicable units of local government that have authority to adopt building codes, will implement the following: (Veto, 2009, ¶11)

“(A) A building energy code (or codes) for residential buildings that meets or exceeds the most recently published International Energy Conservation Code, or achieves equivalent or greater energy savings (Veto, 2009, ¶12).

“(B) A building energy code (or codes) for commercial buildings throughout the State that meets or exceeds the ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007, or achieves equivalent or greater energy savings (Veto, 2009, ¶13).

“(C) A plan for the jurisdiction achieving compliance with the building energy code or codes described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) within 8 years of the date of enactment of this Act in at least 90 percent of new and renovated residential and commercial building space. Such plan shall include active training and enforcement programs and measurement of the rate of compliance each year” (Veto, 2009, ¶14).

The Official Department of Energy Guidance Manual repeats the requirements of section 410 (pp.8, 25-26, 33, and 51), and states that “All grant awards made under the program must comply with applicable legislation” (p.29, section 6.0, issued March 12, 2009) (Veto, 2009, ¶15).

Examples of residential energy building code requirements in the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code include:(Veto, 2009, ¶16)

"Lighting Equipment. ... A minimum of 50 percent of the lamps in permanently installed lighting fixtures shall be high-efficacy lamps,” Section 404.1, International Energy Conservation Code, 2009. "Replacement fenestration [windows]. Where some or all of an existing fenestration unit is replaced with a new fenestration product, including sash and glazing, the replacement fenestration shall meet the requirements for U-factor and SHGC in Table 402.1.1.", Section 402.3.6 (Veto, 2009, ¶17).

Copies of the letter to the U.S. Energy Secretary and the department’s response are located on the Office of Management and Budget website at http://omb.alaska.gov/(Veto, 2009, ¶18).

Commentary

Governor Palin has long made clear her position on the stimulus bill, which can be summed up as follows:

1. Money which results in un-funded state mandates is poisoned money and not to be accepted;
2. Money which results in federal interference in state matters breaches the Tenth Amendment to the Constitution; violates the principle of preference for local control and small government; creates financial problems for the state; and gives a distant federal government which knows nothing about state needs control that it should not have. Such money; therefore, is to be considered poisoned and to be rejected with extreme prejudice.

Governor Palin is standing firm to her position on this matter, which is correct. Her veto pen is locked and loaded with a round in the chamber -- safety is on safe. The state legislature is free to override her veto, but this $28.6 million is poisoned money, and it will be vetoed without question or compunction.

References

Governor maintains stance on stimulus funds, favors local control on building codes. (2009, May 21). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved May 21, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1860