Legislature(2001 - 2002)
04/17/2001 10:10 AM House RLS
| Audio | Topic |
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* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
HOUSE RULES STANDING COMMITTEE
April 17, 2001
10:10 a.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Pete Kott, Chair
Representative Brian Porter
Representative Vic Kohring
Representative Carl Morgan
MEMBERS ABSENT
Representative Lesil McGuire
Representative Ethan Berkowitz
Representative Reggie Joule
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
SPONSOR SUBSTITUTE FOR SENATE BILL NO. 119
"An Act naming the William R. Wood Fairbanks International
Airport; and providing for an effective date."
- HEARD AND HELD
PREVIOUS ACTION
BILL: SB 119
SHORT TITLE:WILLIAM R. WOOD FAIRBANKS INTL AIRPORT
SPONSOR(S): SENATOR(S) WILKEN
Jrn-Date Jrn-Page Action
02/26/01 0505 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME -
REFERRALS
02/26/01 0505 (S) TRA
03/08/01 (S) TRA AT 1:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
03/13/01 0635 (S) SPONSOR SUBSTITUTE
INTRODUCED-REFERRALS
03/13/01 0635 (S) TRA
03/13/01 (S) TRA AT 1:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
03/13/01 (S) Moved Out of Committee
MINUTE(TRA)
03/14/01 0656 (S) TRA RPT 5DP
03/14/01 0656 (S) DP:COWDERY, WILKEN, TAYLOR,
WARD, ELTON
03/14/01 0656 (S) FN1: ZERO(DOT)
03/16/01 0693 (S) RULES TO CALENDAR 3/16/01
03/16/01 0695 (S) READ THE SECOND TIME
03/16/01 0695 (S) ADVANCED TO THIRD READING
UNAN CONSENT
03/16/01 0695 (S) READ THE THIRD TIME SSSB 119
03/16/01 0695 (S) PASSED Y16 N- E3 A1
03/16/01 0696 (S) EFFECTIVE DATE(S) SAME AS
PASSAGE
03/16/01 0698 (S) TRANSMITTED TO (H)
03/16/01 0698 (S) VERSION: SSSB 119
03/16/01 (S) RLS AT 11:30 AM FAHRENKAMP
203
03/16/01 (S) MINUTE(RLS)
03/19/01 0646 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME -
REFERRALS
03/19/01 0646 (H) RLS
03/19/01 0646 (H) REFERRED TO RULES
04/17/01 (H) RLS AT 10:00 AM BELTZ 211
WITNESS REGISTER
SENATOR GARY WILKEN
Alaska State Legislature
Capitol Building, Room 514
Juneau, Alaska 99801
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the sponsor of SSSB 119.
RHONDA BOYLES, Mayor
Fairbanks North Star Borough
P.O. Box 71267
Fairbanks, Alaska 99707
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SSSB 119.
KATHLEEN DALTON
PO Box 70681
Fairbanks, Alaska 99707
POSITION STATEMENT: Recommended holding SSSB 119 in House Rules
Standing Committee over the interim.
ROBERT BROWN
PO Box 80568
Fairbanks, Alaska 99708
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
HARRY JENKINS
210 10th Ave
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
DON HULSHIZER, Member
Pioneers of Alaska
3021 Riverview Dr
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
PHYLLIS TATE
665 10th Ave
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Urged the committee to vote against SSSB
119.
CHARLIE REX, Member
Fairbanks City Council
970 Wood Way
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Read a letter from Mayor Hayes in support
of SSSB 119. On his own behalf, Mr. Rex testified in support of
SSSB 119.
GLEN WILCOX
1714 Marika Rd
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified that SSSB 119 is a misdirected
effort.
DON GILBERTSON
3195 College Road
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
GEORGE LOUNSBURY, Pilot
PO Box 70983
Fairbanks, Alaska 99707
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SB 119.
ART BUSWELL, Member
Igloo 4
Pioneers of Alaska
102 Maple Drive
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SSSB 119.
SARAH CAMPBELL
2590 Home Run
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Recommended that SSSB 119 be held in the
House Rules Standing Committee.
CORKY CORKRAN
PO Box 73324
Fairbanks, Alaska 99707
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified that Dr. Wood wouldn't have liked
changing FIA's name.
PATTI SKONDOVITCH, Member
Auxiliary Number 8
Pioneers of Alaska
202 Slater Street
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
AL SKONDOVITCH, President
Igloo Number 4
Pioneers of Alaska
202 Slater Street
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
BILL MENDENHALL
1907 Yankovich Road
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
JANETTE HANNEMAN
3370 Davis Road
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
ROYCE CHAPMAN
101 12th Avenue
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Read a letter from Congressman Don Young,
which was in support of SSSB 119. On his own behalf, he urged
the committee to support SSSB 119.
DON PIATT
306 Eureka Avenue
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
CLAUDIA PIATT
306 Eureka Avenue
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
OLGA STEGER, Member
Auxiliary Number 8
Pioneers of Alaska
665 9th Avenue
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
DALE GREELEY
4697 Small Tracts Road
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
JERRY BOHMS, Member
Igloo Number 4
Pioneers of Alaska
535 Halvorson Road
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
ROGER BURNS
2559 Dale Road
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Suggested alternatives to SSSB 119.
DANNETTA WAKEFIELD
PO Box 10104
Fairbanks, Alaska 99710
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified on SSSB 119.
RUDY VETTER
PO Box 70342
Fairbanks, Alaska 99707
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified on SSSB 119.
RITA HYMES
2540 Ravenwood Drive
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified on SSSB 119.
HELEN ATKINSON
PO Box 70907
Fairbanks, Alaska 99707
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
ROBERT KALLENBERG
515 Craig Avenue
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified on the inappropriateness of
renaming FIA.
DON HYMES
2540 Ravenwood Drive
Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
ALASKA LINCK
665 10th Ave
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to SSSB 119.
ACTION NARRATIVE
TAPE 01-6, SIDE A
Number 0001
CHAIR PETE KOTT called the House Rules Standing Committee
meeting to order at 10:10 a.m. Representatives Kott, Porter,
Kohring, and Morgan were present at the call to order.
SB 119-WILLIAM R. WOOD FAIRBANKS INTL AIRPORT
Number 0023
CHAIR KOTT announced that the first order of business would be
SPONSOR SUBSTITUTE FOR SENATE BILL NO. 119, "An Act naming the
William R. Wood Fairbanks International Airport; and providing
for an effective date."
SENATOR GARY WILKEN, Alaska State Legislature, testified as the
sponsor of SSSB 119. He requested that the Fairbanks [North
Star Borough] mayor be allowed to provide her testimony first
because she has a 10:30 a.m. appointment.
Number 0106
RHONDA BOYLES, Mayor, Fairbanks North Star Borough, testified
via teleconference. Mayor Boyles announced her adamant support
of [SS]SB 119. She informed the committee that the Fairbanks
Assembly unanimously voted to adopt a resolution to name the
Fairbanks International Airport (FIA) after Dr. William R. Wood.
SENATOR WILKEN explained that SSSB 119 adds the name, William R.
Wood to FIA. Senator Wilken painted a picture of a man who has
had a broad and forceful impact on the way people live in
Interior Alaska as well as Alaskans as a whole. Senator Wilken
highlighted the following areas of a booklet, which was provided
to the committee.
SENATOR WILKEN turned to his sponsor statement and read the
following:
Senate Bill 119 will name Fairbanks International
Airport in honor of a true visionary and leader for
Alaska, Dr. William R. Wood. Dr. Bill Wood arrived in
Fairbanks in 1960, with his wife Dorothy Jane, son
Mark, and daughter Karen, to serve as the fourth
president of our university. After 13 years of
leading the university and shaping it into a world-
class institution, he retired from the university
service and, with his family, decided to remain in
Fairbanks. Though he retired from the university, he
never stopped serving his community. Dr. Wood was
committed to making the place he lived a better place
than when he found it. He fulfilled that belief every
day of his 94 years, even in his final days he was
offering words of wisdom and urging ... national,
state, and local leaders to begin or to finish
community projects. Dr. Wood's message was that we,
as Fairbanksans, live in a special place in this
world. With the naming of the Fairbanks International
Airport after Dr. Wood, fellow Alaskans, [and] our
visitors, will be reminded not only of his
contributions to our past, but his vision of our
future.
SENATOR WILKEN directed the committee's attention to the article
entitled, "An Alaskan Life of William R. Wood." Senator Wilken
reviewed Dr. Wood's extensive community involvement and
accomplishments, such as his position as the Mayor of Fairbanks
from 1978 to 1980.
SENATOR WILKEN directed the committee's attention to the
Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly's resolution, 20010104 in
support of renaming FIA to the William R. Wood Fairbanks
International Airport. This resolution passed 7-2 by the
Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly. There were five co-
sponsors to the resolution.
Number 0568
SENATOR WILKEN turned to the editorial, 'Just a little better',
that was in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner following Dr. Wood's
death. He quoted the following paragraphs from that editorial:
It was an unseen salute that in many ways mirrored the
life of the man. Dr. Wood worked countless hours
invisible to most of his community, though his efforts
continue to touch our lives and, indeed, move our
hearts.
Some still exercise their powers of hindsight to
criticize. Thank God that Dr. Wood exercised his
considerable powers of forethought to touch this earth
far beyond the scope of his mortality.
His community service mirrored his university career
in many ways. He came along to build and to keep us
looking forward. What is even more remarkable about
his community work is the inestimable hours spent day
after day, year [upon] year, for no recompense but to
satisfy his want to make things "a little better."
For decades to come, Fairbanks will see the mark of
Dr. Wood, the Midwest farm boy, the sailor, the
scholar, the husband, the father, the teacher, the
university president, the mayor, the statesman, the
grandpa who chose to make Fairbanks his home.
SENATOR WILKEN moved on to Dr. Wood's vision, which is
illustrated in the information regarding the Festival of
Fairbanks. He remarked, "Few of us, I think, when we go to our
next life, leave a six year plan. Dr. Wood did and that's his
vision of Fairbanks through the Festival of Fairbanks." The
April 8, 2001, article discusses his legacy, which Senator
Wilken believes is important to realize. Senator Wilken then
suggested that the committee review an article entitled, "For
the Record."
SENATOR WILKEN remarked that he is taking this effort very
seriously because of Dr. Wood's impact on Interior Alaska and
Senator Wilken and his family. Senator Wilken said, "In my 45
years of living in Fairbanks and my 20 years of participation in
public issues, no one - outside of my parents and Mr. Bob
Mitchell(ph)- has inspired me more to understand this special
place on earth than did William R. Wood." Furthermore, Senator
Wilken said he believes that many other Fairbanksans have had
the same experience and thus carry with them Dr. Wood's
admonition, "Do more, serve more, love where you live."
Number 0763
SENATOR WILKEN continued by responding to some specific
concerns. First, there has been the suggestion that Dr. Wood
wasn't a pilot nor was he directly connected with aviation and
thus wouldn't it be more appropriate to name something else
after Dr. Wood. To that Senator Wilken replied, "Naming our
door to the world will serve as a constant reminder to many of
his many and varied contributions to Interior Alaska and to our
state." Senator Wilken acknowledged that Dr. Wood wasn't a
pilot, but he gave unselfishly to "his" community after
retirement. Dr. Wood's work continually made the effort to make
Fairbanks an international hub of travel. Therefore, Dr. Wood
used his time and resources to make Fairbanks "a little better
place than he found it." Dr. Wood left a vision of how we can
continue to improve. Therefore, Senator Wilken couldn't think
of a better building to recognize Dr. Wood's selfless service
than FIA.
SENATOR WILKEN agreed that Dr. Wood may have said that he didn't
want anything named after him. However, those that knew Dr.
Wood knew that he was a modest Midwest farm boy who never wanted
his well-deserved recognition. Therefore, Senator Wilken
believes that if Dr. Wood were present, he would say that surely
[the legislature] has better things to do than name airports.
However, that doesn't mean that Dr. Wood didn't earn or wouldn't
appreciate this recognition proposed in SSSB 119. With due
respect to Dr. Wood, Senator Wilken clarified that changing the
name of FIA is being done for Fairbanksans and all Alaskans in
order to remind everyone of his message. Senator Wilken pointed
out that Dr. Wood's family is supportive of this legislation as
their letters in the committee packet illustrate.
Number 0901
SENATOR WILKEN turned to the charge that the Pioneers of Alaska
are opposed to SSSB 119. To that, Senator Wilken replied that
some are and some are not. He noted his respect for the
Pioneers of Alaska, but he expressed his disappointment for not
being invited to present his reasons for sponsoring SSSB 119
before Igloo Number 4 taking a formal position on March 19,
2001. Senator Wilken informed the committee that the opposition
to a name change was based on one meeting with a small
percentage of Pioneers present and with only one view presented.
He pointed out that when important decisions are made with only
one side of the issue, it can be dangerous. He noted that a
packet of information has been and will continue to be available
from his office for anyone [to review]. He reiterated that the
Fairbanks North Star Borough, after testimony that included
testimony from the Pioneers of Alaska, voted 7-2 to support SB
119.
SENATOR WILKEN addressed the concern that this name change would
be expensive. He said that there will be virtually no
additional cost for this change. At the Senate Transportation
Committee hearing, the Department of Transportation & Public
Facilities stated that this would have a negligible financial
impact. The funds to replace a suitable portion of the building
or wall to honor Dr. Wood will be raised privately.
SENATOR WILKEN responded to the concerns that changing the name
of FIA would create confusion and make it more difficult to
market Fairbanks to the world. Senator Wilken explained that
the name of the airport, with the name change, would be the
William R. Wood Fairbanks International Airport. Just as the
Anchorage International Airport named after Senator Ted Stevens
kept the [location portion of the name] Anchorage and the
designator ANC, the official designator of the Fairbanks airport
will continue to be FAI. Furthermore, the airport marketing
director has informed Senator Wilken that there will be no
impact, positive or negative, from this action. Senator Wilken
informed the committee that Alaska has nine airports that are
named after people, which reinforces that this has been done
before and that the designator remains geographical. When
visitors arrive in Fairbanks, they will simply see that this
airport has been named after an individual who has been
important and influential in the development and history of the
community of Fairbanks. Hopefully, visitors will gain an
understanding that individuals worldwide can make the place that
they live a little better.
SENATOR WILKEN turned to the question of whether there are
others after which the airport could be named. To that
Senator Wilken said, "In my mind this is not a question of
qualifications, but a question of degree of qualifications."
Although Senator Wilken agreed that others have made significant
contributions inside and outside the Fairbanks aviation
community, he asked who has served Fairbanks for as long and as
selflessly as Dr. Wood. The vision, energy, gentle
encouragement, and legacy of Dr. Wood have set the bar at a high
level. In the opinion of many, this level has been reached by
only one person.
Number 1116
SENATOR WILKEN concluded by informing the committee that above
his voting box in the Senate floor, he has a photograph of his
grandchildren. He explained that he looks at them every time he
votes and asks himself if it is best for his grandchildren. His
answer on SSSB 119 is yes because he wants his grandchildren and
their families and friends to know the kind of people that came
before them. He clarified, "I want them to see an example of a
man who put service above self for 41 years to help make the
community he lived in the special place that it is."
Furthermore, "I want them to be challenged by his efforts and
humbled by his accomplishments [because] only with that
appreciation of yesterday will they strive for a better
tomorrow," he said. Therefore, Senator Wilken encouraged the
committee's support of SSSB 119.
CHAIR KOTT inquired as to whether Senator Wilken was present at
the Fairbanks [North Star Borough] Assembly meeting during which
the vote on the resolution was taken. If so, he asked whether
Senator Wilken could share the concerns of the two dissenting
votes.
SENATOR WILKEN said that he was present at that Fairbanks [North
Star Borough] Assembly meeting. He informed the committee that
one of the persons who voted against there resolution had said
some time prior to the meeting that he was "on the fence and
hadn't made a decision" and that person voted no with no
explanation. The other person with the dissenting vote
expressed concern with naming the airport after anyone.
Number 1236
KATHLEEN DALTON testified via teleconference. She informed the
committee that although she is speaking on her own behalf, her
testimony reflects her impressions as a member of the Pioneers
of Alaska. Ms. Dalton recommended that SB 119 remain in the
House Rules Standing Committee until cooler emotions prevail.
Perhaps it could be taken up next session. Ms. Dalton said that
she regretted that there were no hearings on this issue before
it "streaked through the Senate." Furthermore, she noted that
she was offended by a letter from the sponsor that referred to
the Pioneers of Alaska as "a small pocket of uninformed
resistance."
MS. DALTON mentioned the respcet she and the Pioneers of Alaska
have for Dr. Wood and his wife. This respect was illustrated
when the Pioneers of Alaska accepted Dr. Wood and his wife as
honorary members of Pioneer Igloo Number 4 and Auxiliary Number
8 on April 4, 1973. When Dr. Wood and his wife acquired 30
years, they were initiated as full members. Ms. Dalton pointed
out that in the 53 years of Auxiliary Number 8, Dorothy Wood is
the only person that has ever been accepted as an honorary
member. In conclusion, Ms. Dalton reiterated her recommendation
to hold SB 119 in the House Rules Standing Committee through the
interim.
Number 1362
ROBERT BROWN testified via teleconference. He informed the
committee that he is also speaking on his own behalf, although
he is a member of the Pioneers of Alaska. Mr. Brown also
informed the committee that FIA is already named after Charles
Fairbanks who was a U.S. Senator and Vice President of the
United States during Teddy Roosevelt's presidency. Mr. Brown
said that a Department of Transportation & Public Facilities
engineer confirmed that next year bidding will begin for the
construction of a new South entrance to the University of
Fairbanks that could be named after Dr. Wood, which would be a
more appropriate place. Mr. Brown concluded by saying that he
was opposed to changing the name of FIA to any other person's
name because it is already a person's name.
Number 1456
HARRY JENKINS testified via teleconference. He emphasized the
need to leave the name of FIA alone. Furthermore, he charged
the legislature with spending more time on important bills for
the people of Alaska.
DON HULSHIZER, Member, Pioneers of Alaska, testified via
teleconference. He informed the committee that he is a long-
time commercial pilot in Fairbanks. Mr. Hulshizer said that he
had spoken with many former and current employees of FIA and
none thought the name change was necessary or desirable. Mr.
Hulshizer concluded by saying that he believes the Fairbanks
International Airport should remain named as such.
Number 1524
PHYLLIS TATE began by thanking Chair Kott for holding this
meeting because it is the first, last, and only opportunity that
Fairbanksans have had for any input on this issue. Ms. Tate
expressed her regret that [Senator Wilken] felt it necessary to
open the Senate meetings so that the people of Fairbanks could
speak. Ms. Fate informed the committee that her family has been
in Fairbanks since 1925 and many in her family, including
herself, are pilots. She noted that she attended the [Fairbanks
North Star Borough Assembly] meeting on this issue and with the
exception of Senator Wilken, all the testimony was in opposition
to passing a resolution naming FIA after Dr. Wood. She also
mentioned that she recently wrote a letter to the editor and
since that time there have been letters to the editor in
opposition to renaming the airport on almost a daily basis. Ms.
Tate said that everyone she knew that supports SB 119 is
connected with Senator Wilken through politics, business, or
family. Ms. Tate urged the committee to vote against SB 119.
CHARLIE REX, Member, Fairbanks City Council, testified via
teleconference. Mr. Rex announced that he was present to read a
letter from the Mayor of the City of Fairbanks, James Hayes,
regarding SB 119. He read the letter as follows:
Dear Representative Kott,
It is my pleasure to offer my strong support of SB
119, which would rename our airport the William R.
Wood Fairbanks International Airport. As the Mayor of
Fairbanks, I think this is very appropriate and
fitting. Dr. Wood was more than a friend and mentor
to me. It is because of his endless ideas and
inspiration that Fairbanks is where it is today. So
much of this town has been touched by his work, his
leadership, his wisdom, and his vision. Frankly,
because of Dr. Wood and his dedication to Fairbanks
and to Alaska, my job has been so much easier to do.
I have lived in Fairbanks almost my entire life. I
cannot think of anyone else that I would want to be
reminded of as I travel in and out of our great city,
a place Dr. Wood devoted so much of his time and
energy. I urge you to support this bill and schedule
it for the House floor at your earliest convenience.
If you have questions feel free to call me at 459-
6793.
Sincerely,
James C. Hayes
Mayor of Fairbanks
MR. REX turned to his own testimony. He informed the committee
that he had attended the meeting when the Fairbanks North Star
Borough Assembly passed their resolution. During that meeting,
there was concern regarding the safety of the airport because of
the possible confusion of pilots with the new name of the
airport. However, Mr. Rex believes this is not a safety issue
at all. Therefore, he supported the renaming of FIA.
GLEN WILCOX testified via teleconference. Mr. Wilcox clarified
that this is not a question of Dr. Wood, but rather the issue is
the inappropriateness of such action. It is inappropriate to
honor Dr. Wood with something to which he had almost no
connection. Mr. Wilcox commented on the importance of pilots
and air traffic in regard to the development of [Alaska]. He
reiterated that no one is attempting to dishonor Dr. Wood.
Furthermore, Dr. Wood would be upset with the controversy
surrounding his name. Also, this legislation went through the
Senate before most people were even aware of it. Furthermore,
there was no effort [to rename FIA] on the part of anyone from
the general community. Mr. Wilcox echoed earlier comments that
SSSB 119 is a misdirected effort.
Number 1828
DON GILBERTSON testified via teleconference. He informed the
committee that he is one of four generations of Fairbanksans.
Mr. Gilbertson also informed the committee that he has owned an
airline, flew for an airline, and managed an airline. He echoed
Mr. Wilcox's testimony regarding everyone's respect for Dr. Wood
and the inappropriateness of changing the name of the airport to
honor someone who isn't involved in aviation. Mr. Gilbertson
concluded by noting his opposition to [SSSB 119].
GEORGE LOUNSBURY, Pilot, testified via teleconference. He
informed the committee that he is a life-long Fairbanksan. Mr.
Lounsbury related his belief that the name of FIA should not be
changed and thus he is opposed to SB 119, which he feels was
pushed through too quickly.
Number 1898
ART BUSWELL, Member, Igloo 4, Pioneers of Alaska, testified via
teleconference. He informed the committee that he is a 36-year
resident of Fairbanks. Mr. Buswell announced his support of
SSSB 119. Mr. Buswell reviewed Dr. Wood's active service in
Fairbanks as a citizen volunteer for more than 26 years. It is
entirely fitting and proper that the state-owned and operated
airport in Fairbanks be named the William R. Wood Fairbanks
International Airport.
Number 1951
SARAH CAMPBELL testified via teleconference. Ms. Campbell
interpreted the testimony from both sides of the issue to
indicate that there is not unanimous support to change the name
of FIA. In fact, this issue seems to be quite divisive to the
community, which she didn't believe Dr. Wood would have wanted.
Perhaps, Dr. Wood said that he didn't want anything named after
him because he didn't want anyone to debate the issue. Ms.
Campbell related her belief that this bill should be [held] in
committee because the community doesn't need to be divided over
such an insignificant thing.
Number 2003
CORKY CORKRAN testified via teleconference. He began by saying
that he considered Dr. Wood a good friend. He informed the
committee that Dr. Wood is a member of the Interior & Arctic
Alaska Air Foundation (IAAAF). Mr. Corkran didn't believe that
Dr. Wood would have liked changing the name of FIA.
Number 2025
PATTI SKONDOVITCH, Member, Auxiliary Number 8, Pioneers of
Alaska, testified via teleconference. She informed the
committee that she is a 44-year resident of Fairbanks who has
worked at the airport for 38 years. Ms. Skondovitch felt that
there are many other fine citizens of Fairbanks who would be
just as deserving of recognition as Dr. Wood. Ms. Skondovitch
couldn't see any reason for changing the name of FIA and thus
she requested that the name not be changed.
AL SKONDOVITCH, President, Igloo Number 4, Pioneers of Alaska,
testified via teleconference. Mr. Skondovitch said that he
hasn't found anyone who is in favor of changing the name of FIA.
Furthermore, there are many aviators in the community [who could
be honored].
Number 2162
BILL MENDENHALL testified via teleconference. He informed the
committee that he knew and liked Dr. Wood. However, the airport
shouldn't be named after anyone. He acknowledged that there are
places with multiple airports where names would be desirable,
such as New York. In Fairbanks there is only one airport and as
long as that is the case, he recommended leaving the name as it
is.
Number 2240
JANETTE HANNEMAN testified via teleconference. She noted that
although she is a member of the Pioneers of Alaska, she is
speaking on her and her husband's behalf. Both she and her
husband oppose changing the name of FIA for any reason at any
time.
Number 2274
ROYCE CHAPMAN testified via teleconference. Mr. Chapman read
the following letter from Congressman Don Young:
I'm honored to voice my support for naming the
Fairbanks International Airport in honor of Dr.
William Ransom(ph) Wood. Dr. Wood was an inspiration
to all of us and to name the airport after him would
be an appropriate action. In a world so lacking true
leaders, Dr. Wood not only lead by example he was able
to inspire those around him. His inspirational and
visionary leadership made what was thought to be
impossible by some, to become possible. Dr. Wood's
life was dedicated to the making of the future
brighter for all who came after him. He always worked
to make sure that future generations lived in a world
where knowledge of the past led them to greatness in
the future. Every project or cause Dr. Wood
championed was for the benefit of the community of
Fairbanks, the State of Alaska, our nation, and the
world around us. I would urge the men and women of
the Alaska State Legislature to support the
legislation naming the Fairbanks airport for Dr. Wood.
Such recognition, while never sought by him, would be
a small step in keeping his memory and his visionary
leadership in the minds of all who follow.
Sincerely,
Congressman Don Young
MR. CHAPMAN then turned to his own comments and said that he
couldn't think of a finer individual to receive such an honor.
Dr. Wood was an inspiration to all. In regard to the concerns
that Dr. Wood wasn't an aviator, Mr. Chapman pointed out that
Charles Fairbanks wasn't even from the area. Furthermore, the
vast majority of people that pass through the airport are merely
getting on an airplane. Mr. Chapman urged the committee to
support SSSB 119.
CHAIR KOTT informed everyone that floor session was scheduled to
begin at 11:00 a.m., and the committee was being evicted from
its current location [due to other scheduled meetings].
Therefore, Chair Kott recessed the meeting to 1:00 p.m.
CHAIR KOTT reconvened the House Rules Standing Committee hearing
at 1:40 p.m. Members present upon reconvening were
Representatives Kott, Morgan, and Joule.
TAPE 01-6, SIDE B
Number 0998
DON PIATT, 48-year resident of Fairbanks, testified via
teleconference. He informed the committee that he is a 21-year
employee of FIA. Mr. Piatt felt that something to be built in
the future could be named after Dr. Wood. Mr. Piatt noted his
opposition to SSSB 119.
CLAUDIA PIATT, 47-year resident of Fairbanks, testified via
teleconference. Ms. Piatt opposed the renaming of FIA and thus
opposed SSSB 119.
Number 0989
OLGA STEGER, Member, Auxiliary Number 8, Pioneers of Alaska; 70-
year resident of Fairbanks, testified via teleconference. Ms.
Steger refuted the notion that Auxiliary Number 8 is a small
group as there are 992 members in Auxiliary [Number 8] and Igloo
Number 4 has 687 members. She mentioned that Dr. Wood and his
wife were her neighbors. Although Dr. Wood had achieved much
for Fairbanks and should be commended for his accomplishments,
she strongly opposed SSSB 119. She echoed earlier testimony
regarding the fact that the Pioneers weren't offered an
opportunity to represent their opinion before the bill passed
the Senate.
Number 0977
DALE GREELEY testified via teleconference. He informed the
committee that he is a resident of Fairbanks, graduate of the
University of Alaska - Fairbanks, a pilot, and someone who
respects Dr. Wood's community service. Mr. Greeley agreed with
all of the things that Senator Wilken said regarding Dr. Wood.
However, he still opposed the renaming of FIA for the following
three reasons. Firstly, there is no grass roots effort in the
community wanting to rename the airport. Therefore, Mr. Greeley
felt that this is the personal desire of a few politicians
rather than the representatives of government responding to the
community's wishes. Secondly, names should be given to new
things or things that don't already have a name. Thirdly,
renaming FIA after Dr. Wood would remove the incentive to name
something more appropriate after Dr. Wood.
Number 0966
JERRY BOHMS, Member, Igloo Number 4, Pioneers of Alaska,
testified via teleconference. He informed the committee that he
is a retired Wings of Alaska airline pilot. He observed that
most of the people testifying in favor of SSSB 119 are from the
political arena. Mr. Bohms related his belief that SSSB 119 is
a "knee-jerk reaction" to Dr. Wood's death. He echoed earlier
comments regarding the quick passage of SSSB 119 in the Senate.
Mr. Bohms was sure that everyone testifying today had great
respect for Dr. Wood and his accomplishments. However, Mr.
Bohms felt that naming the airport after Dr. Wood is
inappropriate and wrong.
Number 0941
ROGER BURNS testified via teleconference. Mr. Burns, in
response to Senator Wilken's mention that there are nine
airports in Alaska that are named after people, pointed out that
there are 316 airports in Alaska that aren't named after anyone.
Although it may be true that there may be no better person to
rename an airport after than Dr. Wood, it is not appropriate to
rename the airport. Furthermore, renaming the airport would
cost money. Mr. Burns turned to the Seattle-Tacoma
International Airport identity crisis in 1983 and 1984, when the
Board of Seattle Commissioners renamed that airport in honor of
the late Senator Henry M. Jackson. That rename sparked
confusion and controversy and the name change lasted less than
six months.
MR. BURNS recalled earlier testimony regarding the fact that all
this bill is calling for is a plaque and a display case, which
will be provided by private donations. If that is the case,
then shouldn't this be a resolution. He asked if the airport
has to be renamed in order to honor Dr. Wood. Mr. Burns
expressed the need to take some time with this issue and find
out the feelings of the community. He said, "If it's a good
idea this year, then it's a good idea next year." He also
reiterated the possibility of doing this by resolution.
CHAIR KOTT, in response to Mr. Burns, said that he,
Representative Morgan, and Senator Wilken were present. Chair
Kott informed everyone that there are other hearings going on
and the other members of the House Rules Standing Committee are
in hearings.
Number 0890
DANNETTA WAKEFIELD testified via teleconference. She informed
the committee that she has been a resident of Fairbanks since
1973. Ms. Wakefield noted that she pays close attention to
political happenings. However, she was surprised with the speed
that SSSB 119 went through the Senate. Ms. Wakefield stressed
that there wasn't enough time to prepare for this proposal. She
also objected to a small group of people deciding to rename the
airport. Furthermore, there has always been a high degree of
controversy with regard to naming anything in Fairbanks. Ms.
Wakefield was sure that Dr. Wood would not have liked the
controversy that has arisen.
Number 0867
RUDY VETTER testified via teleconference. In his opinion, SSSB
119 should be terminated now. He noted his respect for Dr. Wood
who he knew quite well. Mr. Vetter recalled Dr. Wood's
involvement with Project Chariot, which, had it happened, would
have made most of Northwestern Alaska radioactive for years.
Mr. Vetter characterized Dr. Wood's involvement with Project
Chariot as a mistake.
Number 0854
RITA HYMES testified via teleconference. Ms. Hymes remarked
that it seems that this has been done backwards. If Fairbanks
had wanted the name change, then it should have gone through the
city council and borough assembly before being presented to the
legislature versus the legislature coming to the community with
this change. She questioned why "we are going through all
this," if it is merely going to result in a plaque at the
airport. Ms. Hymes said she would like to think that the
[legislature] has more important things to do than this.
Number 0844
HELEN ATKINSON testified via teleconference. She informed the
committee that she came to Fairbanks in 1928 and graduated from
the Fairbanks High School as well as the University of Alaska -
[Fairbanks]. She noted that she was on the Board of Regents for
nine years. She also noted that she knew Dr. Wood very well.
Ms. Atkinson remarked that Dr. Wood was very honored and pleased
to have the Wood Center at the University of Alaska - Fairbanks
named after him and thus he later said that he didn't want
anything else named after him. She felt that Dr. Wood would be
sad that the community was divided over this because he wanted
Fairbanksans to work together to make Fairbanks the best place
to live. Therefore, she believes that Dr. Wood wouldn't want
this name change and thus she agreed and suggested voting
against SSSB 119.
Number 0828
ROBERT KALLENBERG testified via teleconference. He informed the
committee that he was speaking on his own behalf as well as on
the behalf of Dr. John Jay Lounsbury(ph), Dennis Jennings(ph),
and Frank Stallings(ph). All of the aforementioned people
consider the name change inappropriate. Furthermore, it would
be an empty honor because people don't use such airport names
anyway. He pointed out the difficulty in finding airports [that
have been renamed] in the approach plates. For example, the
Ralph Calhoun Airport in Tanana isn't listed under Tanana.
Therefore, Mr. Kallenberg expressed the need to leave the name
alone.
Number 0816
DON HYMES, a more than 40-year resident of Fairbanks, testified
via teleconference. Mr. Hymes informed the committee that he
was President of Igloo Number 4, Pioneers of Alaska, in 1992.
In 1992 Mr. Hymes had the opportunity to work with Dr. Wood
because it was the 50th anniversary of the Alaska Highway. Mr.
Hymes commended Dr. Wood and his work in the community.
However, he didn't support renaming FIA because it is already
named after one man.
Number 0803
ALASKA LINCK testified via teleconference. Ms. Linck noted her
opposition to renaming FIA. She informed the committee that she
has been in Alaska since 1925. She also informed the committee
of her family's involvement in aviation. Ms. Linck said that
this matter has been dealt with too quickly. In conclusion, Ms.
Linck reiterated her opposition to SSSB 119.
CHAIR KOTT asked if there was anyone else from Fairbanks who
wished to testify on SSSB 119. In response to Ms. Dalton, Chair
Kott noted Senator Wilken's agreement to forward the committee
packet he submitted to the House Rules Standing Committee.
There being no one else to testify, Chair Kott closed the public
testimony on SSSB 119. Chair Kott announced that SSSB 119 would
be held.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the committee, the House
Rules Standing Committee meeting was adjourned at 2:07 p.m.
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