CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 108(FIN) "An Act making appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government and for certain programs, capitalizing funds, amending appropriations, and making reappropriations; and providing for an effective date." CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 109(FIN) "An Act making appropriations for the operating and capital expenses of the state's integrated comprehensive mental health program; and providing for an effective date." 8:34: 47 AM Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT SCS CSHB 108 (FIN), Work Draft 27-GH1737\O, Bailey, as a working document before the committee. There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered. Co-Chair Stedman MOVED to ADOPT SCS CSHB 109 (FIN), Work Draft 27-GH1738\O, Bailey, as a working document before the committee. There being NO OBJECTION, it was so ordered. 8:35:40 AM TIM GRUSSENDORF, STAFF, SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE, presented a spreadsheet produced by the Legislative Finance Division, "2011 Operating Budget Transaction Detail-Senate Structure." He noted that the items included were technical and conforming language approved by the committee the day before; nearly all were net-zero, fund-source changes. Mr. Grussendorf detailed that the first item would consolidate all the Permanent Fund Dividend criminal funds into the Department of Corrections (DOC) for inmate health care. The second item would consolidate funds to the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DLWD), which would be replaced with general funds. Mr. Grussendorf pointed to executive operations on page 2, an item changing numbers to language; the Senate had put the $3 million for the governor's domestic violence initiative into the language section. Mr. Grussendorf continued that page 3 contained a net-zero transaction consolidating funds into DLWD. Page 4 pertained to parks management and was a net-zero transfer of the fuel-trigger funding to reflect a structure change. Page 5 was a net-zero transaction to consolidate the permanent funds into DOC inmate health care. Page 6 replaced cruise ship funding with vehicle rental tax for the Whittier access tunnel. For the Marine Highway System, surplus FY 11 distribution $4 million of fuel trigger was removed from the FY 12 base; partial FY 11 distribution fuel trigger was incorporated in the FY 12 base. The trigger start point moved from $50 to $64 and the remaining would be funded with the vehicle rental tax (designated general funds). Mr. Grussendorf added that there was one more change that was not listed in the transaction report; the item was a structure change with no money attached. The House put the management fees in language, but the Senate subcommittee saw little point in a language transaction, as it would not provide the open-ended appropriation of the governor's request. The language served two purposes: separating management and operation of appropriations, and making the management appropriation open-ended. Although the Senate did not want an open-ended appropriation, it now wanted a separate appropriation. The item was subject to Conference Committee because of the numbers-language issue and because the Senate appropriated $5 million less for management fees (in the permanent fund appropriation). Co-Chair Hoffman OPENED public testimony and reminded testifiers to adhere to the two-minute timeline. He reviewed the testimony schedule and described protocol. 8:41:24 AM AT EASE 8:41:58 AM RECONVENED STATEWIDE PUBLIC TESTIMONY  Juneau  8:42:14 AM Senator Egan welcomed Juneau testifiers.   8:43:05 AM    MARK CHOATE, JUNEAU SCHOOL BOARD, spoke in favor of the community-in-schools funding; the program would bring community volunteers into schools to work one-on-one with students who needed assistance. He believed communities needed strong families for student success, and backup support when families could not provide the support. He advocated for forward funding and additional funds for K-12 education. 8:45:30 AM PETER FRUCHLICH, DISTRICT COURT JUDGE, JUNEAU, testified in support of community-in-schools funding. He reported that during his 16 years as a judge, he had dealt with thousands of truant students and drop-outs. He reviewed challenges related to the high school dropout problem in Juneau. He emphasized that the dropout rate for Native Alaskan students was as high as 60 percent; the rate for non- Natives was about 40 percent. He pointed out that high school dropouts ended up costing the public many times more than the amount requested for the program, including the costs of higher criminal involvement. 8:48:23 AM CHARLES WAINWRIGHT, CLINICAL DIRECTOR, CATHOLIC COMMUNITY SERVICES, JUNEAU, spoke in favor of substance abuse treatment for parents of children in state custody. He underlined that the majority of the parents had substance abuse issues. He asked for an additional $125,000 to the substance abuse treatment budget. He acknowledged the success of the Bring the Kids Home project, but noted the need to help parents. 8:49:54 AM MARIANNE MILLS, DIRECTOR, SOUTHEAST SENIOR SERVICES, JUNEAU, spoke in favor of the increment for the elderly. She described services in Southeast Alaska. She asked for an additional grant for the Meals-on-Wheels programs. She stated that often the person delivering meal was the only person that a senior might see each the day. She stressed that keeping seniors at home saved money by helping them stay healthy and independent. 8:51:52 AM ANDI STORY, VICE-PRESIDENT, JUNEAU SCHOOL BOARD, spoke in favor of the operating fund support for K-12 education and the contributions towards the retirement obligations for teachers and public employees. She highlighted results, including improved student learning and higher scores. She described the connection between education and economic growth. She noted a local funding shortfall of $5 million. She supported funding for pre-school. 8:54:37 AM IAN FISK, CITY AND BOROUGH OF YAKUTAT, JUNEAU RESIDENT, spoke in support of the renewable energy developments through the University of Alaska. He described the ocean energy development project in Yakutat. 8:55:56 AM ALEX REID, STUDENT, JUNEAU, spoke on behalf of the governor's scholarship funding. He hoped the committee would replace the scholarship funding that had been removed. He stressed that there should be a scholarship based on merit, rather than based on need. 8:57:17 AM DEBORAH KASBERG, STUDENT, JUNEAU, spoke in favor of Alaska Performance Scholarship Program funding. She described personal experience and thought the program would encourage students to study in-state. 8:58:47 AM PEGGY BROWN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA NETWORK ON DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT, JUNEAU, testified in support of the increase to the governor's budget for the rural pilot projects. She stressed that the projects were collaborative with many different partners. She thanked the committee for public awareness programs and pro-bono attorneys. 9:01:36 AM JOY LYON, ASSOCIATION FOR THE EDUCATION OF YOUNG CHILDREN, JUNEAU, testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She stressed the importance of Kindergarten readiness. She requested reinstatement of base funding and an increase to $10 per child in pre-Kindergarten education. 9:03:28 AM LAURY SCANDLING, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT, JUNEAU SCHOOL DISTRICT, spoke in favor of education funding. She stressed that schools were a good investment and described increased costs and community partnerships. 9:05:54 AM GEORGE REIFENSTEIN, MANAGER, MT. ROBERTS TRAMWAY, JUNEAU, testified in support of the reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA) required match. He encouraged a budget of $20 million for travel marketing to make Alaska competitive on the world market. 9:08:22 AM MARY SULLIVAN, STATE AFFAIRS COORDINATOR, ALASKA PRIMARY CARE ASSOCIATION, JUNEAU, spoke in support of uninsured individuals and community health care center funding. She described the functions of community health care centers. She stressed that many of the community health centers were less expensive than hospitals. 9:10:18 AM MARIA OFFER, LITERACY SPECIALIST, testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She described experience as an educator and stressed the importance of language development in the preschool years. 9:12:43 AM MATT FELIX, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NATIONAL COUNCIL ON ALCOHOLISM and DRUG DEPENDENCE, JUNEAU, encouraged full funding for addiction treatment for parents of children in custody. He stressed that addiction was generational and the cycle had to be broken. 9:15:51 AM ERIC PETER AND JOANNE MASON, PARENTS, JUNEAU, spoke in favor of funding for services for children with behavioral challenges. He discussed the challenges of children returning to Alaska after being treated out of state. He encouraged support of the Alaska Complex Behavior Collaborative. She described their difficult experience with their son. 9:16:53 AM SAM KURLAND, YOUTH ADVOCATE, JUNEAU YOUTH COURTS AND TREASURER, UNITED YOUTH COURTS OF ALASKA, spoke in support of funding for youth courts. He reviewed statistics related to youth court. He asked for an additional $250,000 funding increment for the program, which was facing grant fund losses. 9:18:28 AM MICHELLE ZENGER, ALASKA WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD, spoke in support of the governor's Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. She noted that the percentage of Alaskans entering post-secondary education was among the lowest. The board felt the program would help. 9:20:38 AM PAT LUBY, ADVOCACY DIRECTOR, AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED PERSONS, spoke in favor of community health center funding. He noted that many older Alaskans were fired by their physicians when they turned 65 because of low Medicare reimbursement, but the community health centers would see them in spite of financial losses. He also spoke in favor of the Senior Nutrition Program as an "essential lifeline." 9:22:22 AM JOHN MCCONOCHIE, OWNER, CYCLE ALASKA, JUNEAU, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He listed challenges because of the lower numbers of visitors to the state. He voiced support of travel marketing funding. 9:24:15 AM LEANNE DAPCEVICH, NURSING STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE, spoke in favor of the Recruitment and Retention of Alaska Natives in Nursing Program. The program aimed to assure that the nursing workforce reflected the state's population, which was 14 percent Alaska Native. She provided history and statistics related to the program, highlighting that over 125 students had graduated and were practicing as registered nurses. She noted that the federal funding that had almost exclusively supported the program was ending. 9:26:42 AM DENISE DANIELLO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA COMMISSION ON AGING, JUNEAU, spoke in support of the community-based grants for senior meal funding. She described the benefits of the program. She requested support for the Alaska Complex Behavioral Health Collaborative, noting that seniors were living longer and had mental health issues with few services available. She testified in support of community health centers, which she believed were necessary for seniors. 9:28:51 AM SARALYN TABACHNICK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AIDING WOMEN IN ABUSE AND RAPE EMERGENCIES, JUNEAU testified in support of the governor's request for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. She noted the cost of transporting affected individuals from rural areas to hubs for emergency safe shelter and transporting personnel to those communities. 9:30:37 AM SEAN SMITH, GLACIER GARDENS RAINFOREST ADVENTURES, JUNEAU, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match and increased funding for travel marketing. He noted statistics about lower numbers of visitors and its effect on his family's business. 9:32:55 AM TINA GREEN, ALASKA VICTIM ASSISTANCE ACADEMY, ANCHORAGE, spoke in support of victim advocacy programs. She noted that Alaska ranked number eight in violent crimes. She stressed that there were many different types of victims and that the academy offered training to law enforcement personnel, court officials, clergy, nursing homes, and others for victim advocacy, rights, and resources. 9:35:07 AM GEORGE DANNER, CITIZEN, JUNEAU, requested restoration of the $99,000 increment to implement the designated duty engineer program at the Seward Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC). He described experience with the Coast Guard and believed the AVTEC program was a good opportunity for Alaskans. 9:37:33 AM AT EASE 9:44:51 AM RECONVENED Co-Chair Hoffman discussed protocol. Kenai, Valdez, Kodiak, Seward, Mat-Su, Glennallen, and Tok    9:46:12 AM MARK LACKEY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CCS EARLY LEARNING, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in opposition to Head Start reductions. He informed the committee that census data from 2000 demonstrated that the population in the Matanuska- Susitna Borough (Mat-Su) was around 60,000; the population in 2010 was 90,000. In 2000, CCS Early Learning provided 252 children with Head Start services; in 2010, 260 children were serviced. The population had increased by 50 percent, but the number of children served had increased by only 3 percent. He felt that the level of need was similar across the state. He described the upcoming federal reductions in funding and the adverse effects that the cuts would have on the program. 9:48:51 AM IVY SPENCER, PARENT, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in opposition to Head Start reductions. She described personal experience and spoke about the value that Head Start provided to families. 9:50:01 AM HANNAH DENNY, ATTORNEY, MAT-SU YOUTH COURT (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the youth court. She commented as a young person who wanted a career as an attorney and spoke to the many benefits she received as a result of the program. For example, Youth Courts of Alaska had saved the state approximately $10,000 per defendant, generated $98,930 worth of community work- service annually, and had reduced crime rates by 11.1 percent overall. 9:51:44 AM ERIN SERAFIN, PRESIDING JUDGE, MAT-SU YOUTH COURT (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for youth court. She noted the benefits of the program in the lives of Alaskan youth. She had chosen to get a criminal justice degree because of experience in youth court, which had changed her life. 9:52:48 AM ISAAC SERAFIN, VICE-PRESIDENT and PRESIDING JUDGE, MAT-SU YOUTH COURT (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for youth court. He spoke to the many benefits provided by youth court. He mentioned improvement in his abilities to write and to speak publicly as a result of his experiences with the youth court. He noted that he intended to pursue a degree in criminal justice. 9:54:01 AM SHANNON NICHOLLS, ADVOCATE, ALASKA FAMILY SERVICES, PALMER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. She requested that the $25,000 grant for scholarships be included for the victim assistance academy. She reported that she and her co-workers had been able to attend the academy only because of the scholarship. She described things learned at the academy to help victims in the state. 9:55:55 AM DICK ZOBEL, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in support of the reinsertion of funding for the Soil and Water Conservation Districts. He commented on the value of conservation districts, including helping the schools teach young people about resources. He referred to materials submitted to the committee. 9:59:13 AM PARK KRINER, OWNER, AMERICAN VILLAGE OF ALASKA, GLENNALLEN (via teleconference), testified in support of reducing the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He spoke in favor of funding for tourism, especially marketing. 10:03:10 AM TONJA UPDIKE, PARENT, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the Alaska Autism Resource Center. She described benefits her family had received for her son who was diagnosed with autism. She pointed to statistics showing that one in every 110 children would have autism, so it was a growing problem in the state. 10:05:03 AM FRED STURMAN, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), recommended that the legislature cut the budget. He stated that the budget was growing at a steady rate and would not match income from oil. Co-Chair Hoffman countered that the budget being considered was $15 million less than the governor's proposed budget. 10:07:06 AM MIKE HORTON, STUDENT, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. He shared a story about his own goals and the opportunities that the performance scholarship could provide for Alaskan students. 10:08:54 AM JILL LEITER, GUIDANCE COUNSELOR, COOK INLET ACADEMY, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), testified in support of the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. She spoke about her experience at the Soldotna Academy with students who work harder in school with the goal of getting the scholarship. She felt that the scholarship programs would benefit the entire state. 10:11:10 AM VIRGINIA GLASHEEN, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in support of the Hub component of the Alaska Complex Behavioral Collaborative. She asserted that the $325,000 initiative had been endorsed by the Governor's Council on Disabilities and Special Education and other programs under the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS). 10:12:40 AM SUSAN KILLARY, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in support of the $25,000 increment for the Alaska Victim Assistance Academy. She described participation in the academy and services provided for professionals. She spoke of challenges in the state, including the high rate of violent crime and the high cost of travel in the state. She relayed personal experience with the training, including learning victim rights, resources and Alaska Native families and historical trauma, and issues related to domestic and child violence. 10:15:14 AM DON DUMM, KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in support of increased aid for the Department of Fish and Game's (DFG) Westward Regions Fisheries research and management of Kodiak salmon stocks. He mentioned efforts by various senators who had worked to keep the funding in the budget. He spoke to the value of the fishing industry in comparison with funding to tourism and the oil industry. Co-Chair Hoffman noted the addition of $1.7 million to the DFG budget earmarked for fisheries and over $1 million for game. He maintained that the legislature had been listening to the public and moving in the direction. 10:18:39 AM PAT BRANSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SENIOR CITIZENS OF KODIAK (via teleconference), testified in support of the $300,000 increase in funding for senior meals. She appreciated the efforts of Senator Olson. She addressed the increased cost of food and support services for meal service for seniors; the average cost per meal was about $20, with grants only covering about one-third of the cost. She lists the other costs that affected the total, including fuel and staffing expenses. 10:20:12 AM AL MCCARTY, LEGISLATIVE CHAIR, ALASKA PTA, SEWARD (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the governor's performance scholarship plan. He noted that Alaska PTA represented 9,000 members in the state. Members were polled and had responded that the issue was a top priority. 10:21:35 AM WILLARD DUNHAM, MAYOR, CITY OF SEWARD (via teleconference), testified in support of reinstating the nursing program funds for the Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC). He emphasized the need for the program, which created good jobs. He spoke in support of passing SB 37 and the Coastal Villages Region Fund. 10:23:40 AM KIM WOODBURY, BOARD MEMBER, BIG LAKE COMMUNITY COUNCIL, BIG LAKE (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the Goose Creek Correctional Facility. She described progress that had been made on the facility. She spoke about the 315 local-hire construction jobs that had been created by the building of the project and the 350 permanent long-term jobs that would be sustained by the operations of the facility, with a payroll of approximately $28 million. 10:25:47 AM DIANE FIELDEN, BOARD MEMBER, PENINSULA COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES OF ALASKA, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding the $3 million direct patient care request. She believed the money would allow the organization to keep its door open and deliver much-needed care in the region. 10:26:59 AM LINDA CONOVER, IMAGINATION LIBRARY, MAT-SU BOROUGH (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She added that the Imagination Library enrolled over 25,000 children who receive one book per month from birth until their fifth birthday. The books encourage reading for young children and families. She described impacts and goals of the program. 10:29:45 AM DIANA STRAUB AND DENNIE JAQUES, WASILLA SENIOR CENTER (via teleconference), testified in support of the inclusion of $825 thousand for the support of senior citizen support services. She described economic difficulties in the Wasilla area. She listed the expenses and incomes of many senior citizens in the Mat-Su; 55 out of 100 seniors had an income below $20,000, with an average monthly income of $1,731.88, while average rent was $800. She added that the senior meal service program also required additional funding. She pointed out that many seniors were too proud to ask for help. 10:34:40 AM MICHAEL MILLER, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in support of the Alaska Scholarship Performance funding. He spoke about experience and the benefits of the program for all students in Alaska. He felt it would help retain people in the state. 10:36:40 AM LAURIE BOOYSE, KENAI CONVENTION AND VISITORS BOROUGH (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She described experience in the travel industry. She felt ATIA would use the funding wisely and help the visitor industry to grow. 10:37:53 AM NATASHA ALA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, KENAI CONVENTION AND VISITORS BOROUGH (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She described businesses in the area and felt ATIA marketing affected every corner of the state. 10:39:08 AM STEPHANIE SMOTHER, MAT-SU (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She spoke about the increases to her business as a result of the prior year's tourism marketing funding. 10:40:08 AM CINDY BETTINI, MEMBER, MATANUSKA-SUSITNA BOROUGH ASSEMBLY (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the Goose Creek Correctional Facility. She supported conducting the audit. She stated concerns about losing the warranty on the building. She noted her involvement in the project over the years and described history. 10:42:26 AM RECESSED 1:02:36 PM RECONVENED Co-Chair Hoffman described the process for continued public testimony. Anchorage  1:04:17 PM Senator Ellis welcomed testimony from the community of Anchorage. 1:04:44 PM DAVE REES, PRIVATE SECTOR MEMBER, ALASKA WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD AND CHAIR, ALASKA COMMISSION ON POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of technical education. He assured the committee that young Alaskans had to be trained properly for the needs of the state. He spoke in favor of funding for the governor's performance scholarship. He provided statistics. 1:07:42 PM PENNY VASILEFF, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for the nursing program. She spoke about the value of nurses and the hard work that they do. 1:10:38 PM HARRY MCDONALD, CHAIRMAN, BOARD OF TRUSTEES, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of restoration of the $8 million for the governor's performance scholarship program. He spoke in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC. 1:11:31 PM RYAN BUCHHOLDT, STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the university budget. 1:13:10 PM SUSAN ANDERSON, CHAIR, EARLY LEARNING COUNCIL, BEST BEGINNINGS, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. 1:13:44 PM AT EASE 1:14:33 PM RECONVENED 1:14:47 PM KIRK HOESSLE, PRESIDENT, ALASKA WILDLAND ADVENTURES, GIRDWOOD, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He stated that the marketing presented by ATIA helped with the cost of advertising. He described ways that ATIA helped businesses in the state through travel marketing. 1:17:13 PM JILLIAN SIMPSON, DIRECTOR, TRAVEL TRADE AND INTERNATIONAL MARKETING, ALASKA TRAVEL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION, ANCHORAGE, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match and in support of marketing funding. She spoke about the experience of incorporating funding into the marketing strategy. 1:18:46 PM JULIE SAUPE, PRESIDENT AND CEO, ANCHORAGE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She requested support for tourism marketing. She described the services of the bureau and pointed to materials with statistics. She commented on the benefits of the funding received the previous year. 1:20:53 PM DEBORAH HANSEN, MARKETING SALES, RUST'S FLYING SERVICE & K2 AVIATION, ANCHORAGE, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She shared a personal story about the effect of decreased tourism on her family's employment opportunities. She referred to experience marketing Alaska in Europe. She reported that there was a lot of competition; she believed the marketing funding was important. 1:23:08 PM DALE FOX, PRESIDENT AND CEO, ALASKA CABARET HOTEL AND RESTAURANT RETAIL ASSOCIATION (CHARR), ANCHORAGE, spoke in support of increased funding for alcohol detoxification and rehabilitation facilities. He noted that the alcohol industry was taxed heavily with the understanding that the services would be funded, but that has not happened. 1:24:42 PM ETHAN TYLER, OWNER, ALASKA TOURISM SOLUTIONS, GIRDWOOD, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He thought the increase in the previous year's budget had been effective; numbers of visitors were significantly up. He reported that statistics confirmed the success of the ATIA website and programs. 1:26:19 PM JESSE CARLSTROM, MANAGER, TRAVEL TRADE AND INTERNATIONAL MARKETING, ALASKA TRAVEL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION, ANCHORAGE, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He described experience traveling in other locations and his hopes for tourism careers in Alaska. 1:27:55 PM SUSAN ANDERSON, CHAIR, EARLY LEARNING COUNCIL, BEST BEGINNINGS, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She commented on the needs for early learning for Alaskans, especially Native Alaskans. She discussed the possible results of a lack of early childhood education. She expressed concern about the shortage of funding for early childhood education. 1:30:40 PM CRYSTALYN LEMIEU, HAINES (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC-Cook Inlet Tribal Council nursing program. She spoke about the shortage of nurses in Alaska. She testified in support of the UA recruitment and the importance of retention of Alaska Native nurses program. She provided statistics. 1:32:49 PM KATE PERONTO, EAGLE RIVER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC-Cook Inlet Tribal Council nursing program. She testified in support of the UA recruitment and retention of Alaska Native nurses program. She described personal experience with the program. 1:34:06 PM DOUG JOHNSON, ALASKA PROJECTS DIRECTOR, OCEAN RENEWABLE POWER COMPANY, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of University of Alaska funding for tidal and river power development. 1:34:56 PM CHRIS SAUER, PRESIDENT & CEO, OCEAN RENEWABLE POWER COMPANY, PORTLAND, MAINE (via teleconference), spoke in support of the program at the University of Alaska for the Alaska Center for Energy and Power. He emphasized the importance of the relationship between Alaska and Maine for creating sustainable jobs in a new industry. 1:35:50 PM SUMMER HULCHINS, STUDENT, WASILLA (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC- Cook Inlet Tribal Council nursing program. She discussed economics and freedom of choice. She described personal experience with the program. 1:38:50 PM AT EASE 1:49:32 PM RECONVENED DENNIS MURRAY, PROGRAM MANAGER, ALASKA STATE HOSPITAL AND NURSING HOME ASSOCIATION, SOLDOTNA (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC- Cook Inlet Tribal Council nursing program. He reported that the program's primary funding source had recently changed its criteria. He noted that the program filled a need for students from all over the state. In 1998, only 1.5 percent of Alaskan nurses were Alaska Native or American Indian, even though the population of indigenous people was 16 percent. He reported that there has been a small improvement since then; he felt that more was needed. 1:51:39 PM SHARON GAGNON, CHAIR, HONORS COLLEGE ADVISORY BOARD, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the $100,000 requested by the Board of Regents for the honors college at the University of Alaska. She quoted statements supporting the program that had been given by various honors students. 1:54:47 PM PEGGY ANDERSON, OWNER, ALASKA VISITOR'S CENTER, AND BOARD MEMBER, VICTIMS FOR JUSTICE, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of $225,000 for the organization Victims for Justice. She provided personal history about her son, who had been murdered in Anchorage. She detailed how services from Victims for Justice were extremely helpful to her, including providing legal advice, financial help for counseling, and support to the family. 1:57:24 PM MIKE ANDERSON, OWNER, ALASKA VISITOR'S CENTER, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He described challenges with his business and the need for marketing. He maintained that the travel industry contributed significantly to the state's treasury and that the funding to ATIA would grow contributions. 1:59:06 PM SHELLEY HOUSTON, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke in favor of funding for the Alaska Youth Court. She commented on her children's experiences and successes with the youth court program. 2:01:28 PM SHARON LEON, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke in favor of funding for the Anchorage Youth Court. She requested fully funding $300,000 the youth court. She described experience and program needs. 2:02:36 PM JOANNE MOLLOY, MUSICIAN, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She believed marketing was a key factor in running any business. She thought ATIA provided exceptional financial return and job support to Alaska. 2:04:12 PM MARLA CLARK, GEORGE MUNDY, REBECCA MCKINLEY, AUTUMN LAUDER, COURTNEY MARTIN, MARIE WHITE, AND ANN BAXTER, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC-Cook Inlet Tribal Council nursing program. She described the program. 2:05:32 PM PATTI FAIRBANKS, EAGLE RIVER for CAPTAIN MARGARET REASONER, MANAGING DIRECTOR, MARINE PERSONNEL, CROWLEY MARITIME CORPORATION (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for career and education grants. She read Captain Reasoner's letter in support of AVTEC's designated duty engineer program. She pointed out that she was responsible for the recruitment, retention, and personnel requirements of 126 Crowley owned or managed vessels; positions included 1,563 permanent mariners and annual hire of an additional 1,173 temporary mariners. Crowley employed approximately hundreds of mariners in Anchorage, Valdez, and Prince William Sound. She described the Ocean Rangers and the importance of AVTEC's program. 2:08:51 PM RAY CLEMENTS, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke on behalf of funding for community health centers. He described the program and emphasized the growing population of seniors in the state. He reported personal experience of excellent care at a health center. 2:10:31 PM COLLEEN CHERRIER, SYLVIA ESCHBACHER, JULIE MCNUTTY, AND JILL MONTAGUE, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC-Cook Inlet Tribal Council nursing program. She described experience and emphasized the importance of the training for health care of Alaska Natives. 2:12:35 PM JEFF JESSEE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ALASKA MENTAL HEALTH TRUST AUTHORITY, DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE (via teleconference), testified in support of the House funding number for substance abuse treatment for parents of children in the custody of the Office of Children's Services. He voiced support for the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. He supported adding $200,000 to the governor's $3 million proposal to fully fund the annualization of the rural pilot projects. 2:13:38 PM ROBERT GOTTSTEIN, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's performance scholarship program. He felt there were fewer opportunities for young people and thought that everyone should have a free education until they were 22 years of age. He urged support for merit-based scholarships. He also voiced support for the Susitna dam, which he felt would be the most important investment with long-term results that the state could make. 2:14:44 PM SUZI PEARSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ABUSED WOMEN'S AID IN CRISIS, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse, the Department of Public Safety's budget for victim's services and funding for legal advocates, and the proposed increase in the human services matching grant for DHSS. She stated that the legal advocacy program benefited Alaskan citizens. She relayed a story about an abused woman's successes getting help for herself and her children as a result of the legal advocacy program. 2:16:39 PM SALLY MEAD, DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF HEALTH PROGRAMS DEVELOPMENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), thanked the legislature for funding of the Health Sciences building in Anchorage. She requested further support for the Board of Regent's requested funding for staffing needs for the building. She stated that the funding would make interdisciplinary education possible and that training in teams was essential for good communication. She testified in support of the university budget. 2:17:57 PM AMANDA HOLSTEIN, NURSING STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for staffing for labs in the new Allied Health Sciences Building being constructed. She pointed out that in 1999, the Institute of Medicine had calculated that the average cost of medical errors in hospitals amounted to between $17 billion and $29 billion per year. She noted that the leading contributing factor to medical errors was the lack of communication. She described positive experience with medical simulation used in training, which had helped shape her practice. 2:19:42 PM ROSALIE NADEAU, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AKEELA, INC., ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), supported additional funding for substance abuse. She saw substance abuse as the leading cause of many social ills. She spoke about additional legislation to increase treatment options for those suffering from substance abuse. She testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. 2:22:14 PM PATRICE GRIFFIN, DIRECTOR, HEAD START, RURAL ALASKA COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the $300,000 House increment for Head Start and asked for a $600,000 increase to current Head Start Funding. She commented that nationwide, Head Start programs would receive federal funding cuts of around 15 percent, which would result in the loss of 94 children from the program in rural Alaska. She maintained that the cuts would be devastating to the rural communities. 2:23:39 PM JILL HODGES, DIRECTOR, ALASKA BRAIN INJURY NETWORK, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the Mental Health Trust request for acquired brain injury services. She discussed the number of brain injuries that were occurring in the state and the lack of services in Alaska. 2:24:36 PM DIRK SHUMAKER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, KIDS' CORPS, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in opposition to Head Start reductions. He endorsed testimony given by Patrice Griffin about the $300,000 and $600,000 increments. 2:25:10 PM CAROLYN BETTES, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of a reduction to the ATIA required match. She stressed the importance of the travel industry's contribution to the state. She emphasized that the travel industry contributed about $180 million in state and municipal taxes and fees. 2:26:31 PM LISA RIEGER, COOK INLET TRIBAL COUNCIL, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's performance scholarship program because the program would provide incentive for higher academic achievement, make it easier for graduating students to afford college, and keep young people in the state for college. She emphasized that the program would work best if coupled with strategies that would ensure that all school districts (especially those in rural areas) would have resources in place to provide advanced curricula that would allow students to qualify for the scholarships. 2:27:19 PM ANGELA ZIGARLICK, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC-Cook Inlet Tribal Council nursing program. 2:28:00 PM NATALIA SCHOLICK, STUDENT, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for AVTEC and the Cook Inlet Tribal Council nursing program. Co-Chair Hoffman noted that the committee would receive written testimony from anyone who did not get to testify in person. 2:30:08 PM Fairbanks    Senator Thomas reviewed the protocol for public testimony from Fairbanks. SUE HULL, FAIRBANKS, (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She spoke in support of funding education at the community level and without an inflation-area adjustment. 2:32:25 PM NINA HARUN, FAIRBANKS COUNCIL OF PTAS, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), urged the committee to raise the base student allocation to $100 in order to keep up with inflation. She recounted experience in the schools and believed some children were falling behind and would benefit from help. 2:33:51 PM KORY EBERHARDT, OWNER, A TASTE OF ALASKA LODGE, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He pointed out that his business supported many other community operations. He supported the Alaska Visitor Industry Investment Fund in HB 160 in the current session, and the Tourism Cooperative Tax Credit proposal in SB 138 from the previous session. He asked that the current marketing budget be approved. 2:35:22 PM CHARLES DEER, MEMBER, AVTEC ADVISORY BOARD, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke against cutting the nursing program funding. He pointed out that the proposed cut would allow a one-year registered nurse program to be added to current successful nursing programs. He noted that many rural students were better served by the program and that training a local person often resulted in a long-term employee. He provided statistics about non-resident hire. 2:37:17 PM CORRINE BEDERMAN, PARENT, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She recounted experience with the program and pointed out unique needs in Fairbanks for low-income citizens. 2:39:24 PM CHARLES FOSTER III, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of developing long-term solutions to energy needs in the Interior, which he believed would take a long time. In the shorter term, he wanted natural gas trucked in from the North Slope and used for energy production. 2:40:17 PM YULANDA SYKES, VICTIMS FOR JUSTICE, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), supported Victims for Justice and the Victims Assistance Academy funding. She described personal experience. She pointed out that the Victims for Justice program was the only full-service victims agency with a presence in both rural and urban communities in Alaska. She listed the services provided by the program. 2:43:23 PM TABER REHBAUM, ARCTIC ALLIANCE FOR PEOPLE, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of the increment to the human services matching community grants. She encouraged an increase of $2 million to the program. She stressed the savings to the state because of state programs eligible for the grant funding, including hospice and senior programs and neighborhood health clinics that saved hundreds of thousands of Medicaid dollars each year. She noted that the grant program emphasized prevention and estimated that an average of 21 young people were kept out of jail each year, saving the state over $2.9 million. She listed other savings. 2:45:55 PM EDWARD KING, JOEL'S PLACE, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), voiced support for funding for the community services matching grant and urged an increase in the funding. 2:46:32 PM LENETTA COLBERT, MEMBER, EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION and DIRECTOR, OPEN ARMS, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She noted that two other commission members were with her. She described services to Fairbanks families through Best Beginnings, including a frequently-used website with information and service listings. She described a survey and how it had been used to provide services to families. 2:49:38 PM SMOKEY DON DUNCAN, MASTER GUIDE, ALASKA PRIVATE GUIDE SERVICES, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke against funding the Department of Natural Resources to further the Guide Concession Program. He noted that 70 percent of the industry did not support the plan and that it would lead to 50 percent of the guides being put out of business. He listed past controversies over the program. He believed existing boards had the tools needed to solve problems. He described history and pointed to comments by industry on the department website. 2:51:34 PM KEVIN ILLINGWORTH, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, TRIBAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of Victims for Justice and the Alaska Victims Assistance Academy. He described experience with the academy. He noted that he taught courses related to community responses to domestic violence; one of the largest challenges in rural communities was the lack of service providers with appropriate training. He felt the academy educated rural providers efficiently. 2:53:18 PM DENISE BAKEWELL, Director, NORTH STAR YOUTH COURT, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of Alaska Youth Court funding. She also supported funding to the community grants. ARIANE GOLD, NORTH STAR YOUTH COURT, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of Alaska Youth Court funding. She described experience with the program and benefits it had given her and other youth. She pointed out that youth courts saved the state about $10,686 per defendant, handled an average of 1,000 cases per year, and realized a repeat-offense rate of 10 percent (as opposed to 23 percent in the regular juvenile court system). She listed services provided in Fairbanks and other communities. 2:55:38 PM JIM LYNCH, FINANCE OFFICER, FAIRBANKS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL and CHAIR, ALASKA WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. He spoke against subcommittee recommendations for a needs-based program and stated that he preferred the original scholarship structure to help elevate all students in math and science. 2:57:15 PM MARILYN RUSSELL, PRESIDENT, LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS ALASKA, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She stated that the league supported early childhood education. 2:57:53 PM KATHLEEN BUNGART, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of performance and merit-based scholarship funding. She spoke to experience as a former teacher and parent. 3:00:28 PM DANA THOMAS, PROFESSOR, DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS and VICE-PROVOST, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of performance-based scholarship funding. He spoke in support of honors-program education funding. He noted that Alaska had one of the lowest rates for providing the funding in the nation. He described funding history. Mr. Thomas testified in support of funding for individual- technology-based math and summer-bridge programs. He argued that improving math success was the key element to raising baccalaureate completion rates. 3:02:21 PM TIMOTHY WORKER, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Alaska Performance Scholarship funding. He believed Alaska's richest resource was its young people, and he wanted to keep them in the state. He described experience with young people and programs. 3:04:04 PM TOM HEWITT, STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Alaska Advantage Program. He noted that tuition had doubled over the past ten years and that students were having a hard time making ends meet. 3:05:24 PM SASHA ERICKSEN, PSYCHIATRY DIRECTOR, TANANA CHIEFS CONFERENCE, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of the psychiatry residency proposal and mental health funding. She described the work of psychiatrists and noted the shortage both in the state and nationwide. She believed the residency program would address the shortage and serve the people of Alaska. She pointed out that research had shown that most psychiatrists stay near their training area. She pointed out that Alaska had high suicide, depression, and substance-abuse rates, and that Native Alaskans had the highest suicide rates in the nation. She described the consequences of lack of services. 3:07:01 PM MIKE MATHERS, FIREFIGHTER, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. He described experience with his son and the program. He wanted to grow the state's economic workforce and keep Alaskan young people in the state, as well as their families. BRENDA STANFILL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INTERIOR ALASKA CENTER FOR NON-VIOLENT LIVING, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of full funding for the governor's budget for personnel services and travel for domestic violence workers. She spoke in support of the legal advocacy program. NICK GASCA, SUPERVISING ATTORNEY, ALASKA LEGAL SERVICES, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of funding human services community matching grant. He described conditions in Fairbanks, including the high cost of living and the poverty rate. He noted that the matching grant would increase savings to the state. He told a story of a person who had benefited from the program. GAIL MCCANN, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. She described personal experience. 3:14:35 PM KATHY HEDGES, NORTHERN ALASKA TOUR COMPANY, FAIRBANKS, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She described contributions the travel industry made to Alaskan communities. She mentioned several other testifiers who had had to leave who were also in support of the visitor industry. 3:15:47 PM TERESE KAPTUR, DIRECTOR, FAIRBANKS SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She also spoke in support of the funding for the arts and described the contribution of the arts towards economic development. She noted that the arts offered services for both visitors and local Alaskans. She pointed out that research showed that community members active in the arts were better citizens with healthier lives. 3:18:05 PM BUZZY CHIU, MANAGER, BRIDGEWATER HOTEL, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match and in support of marketing funding. She asked that some of the money made by the travel industry for the state be reinvested back into the industry. 3:19:18 PM LLOYD HUSKY, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND ADVANCEMENT, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA MUSEUM OF THE NORTH, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He described the success of previous levels of funding and hoped for continued support. 3:20:31 PM PETER LEWIS, SUPERINTENDENT, FAIRBANKS NORTH STAR BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT (via teleconference), encouraged an increase in the base student allocation to $100 in order to meet contractual obligations and keep up with inflation. He noted that the increase would also allow continuation and growth of career and technical education to provide workforce opportunities. He encouraged the committee to increase funding for energy and transportation costs. He described cost increases that the district faced. 3:22:22 PM ARTHUR ROBSON, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), spoke in support of improving the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. He recounted history. 3:24:18 PM DUSTIN ADAMS, MANAGER, REGENCY FAIRBANKS HOTEL (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He noted the amount of money the industry contributed to the state. 3:25:32 PM RANDY BOWELL, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of the Mental Health Trust request for traumatic brain injury services. He relayed personal experience and services that were still needed in the state. 3:27:22 PM CORINNE BOWELL, FAIRBANKS (via teleconference), testified in support of the Mental Health Trust request for traumatic brain injury services. She recounted experience and described the process families go through and the services needed, including education, respite care, and community support so that brain-injured people could get employment. 3:28:57 PM AT EASE 3:29:11 PM RECONVENED Ketchikan, Sitka, Wrangell, Petersburg, Homer, Dillingham,  and Cordova    Co-Chair Stedman welcomed testimony.   3:33:25 PM    ZACK TAPPAR, HOMER AIR, testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He urged support of HB 160. He commented that the airline sustained village operations as well as tourism operations. He spoke to work that ATIA had done. 3:35:51 PM BETTY KEEGAN, ALASKA COMMISSION ON AGING and SENIOR SERVICES, WRANGELL (via teleconference), testified in support of community-based grants for senior programs, particularly the senior food programs. She stated that the past funding of $850,000 given to the commission would only provide one meal a week and that $300,000 would do less. She reported that the year prior, about 30 people received federal food commodities; as many people as 200 each month received the commodities. She maintained that good nutrition was necessary for good health and longevity, particularly for seniors. She detailed that the $300,000 would provide only one additional meal per week at best; it might only maintain current levels because of additional expenses. 3:38:41 PM DWIGHT KEEGAN, WRANGELL (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for senior programs. He supported remarks made by Betty Keegan. 3:39:15 PM DOUG WARD, DIRECTOR OF SHIPYARD DEVELOPMENT, ALASKA SHIP AND DRY DOCK and CHAIR, WORKFORCE READINESS AND EMPLOYMENT & PLACEMENT COMMITTEE, ALASKA WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support of continued and increased funding for the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. He reported that the board had debated the program the prior month and had unanimously decided to support it. As an employer, he believed Alaskans would access Alaskan higher education and vocational education training institutions to begin doing the needed jobs. He noted that currently, outside consultants were being paid a lot of money to design and inspect ships being built and maintained by the state of Alaska. He pointed out that numbers showed that 80 percent of university graduates spend their career within 100 miles of their alma maters. 3:41:29 PM ROSANNE ROPPEL, TEACHER, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support for continued and additional funding for the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. She believed the program would encourage scholars to stay in the state. She pointed out that in the past, higher-end students left the state to be educated and did not come back. She reported experience. 3:43:51 PM SHAUNA LEE, GENERAL MANAGER, GREAT ALASKAN LUMBERJACK SHOW, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She described experience. She opined that the loss of revenue to her business was due to minimal funding for ATIA. 3:45:44 PM TRACY PRICE, AMERICORPS VOLUNTEER, SITKA YOUTH COURT, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support for additional funding for the Alaska Youth Court. She listed the communities that youth court volunteers were from at the Sitka Youth Court, which had saved the state more than $100,000 for the FY increment of only $10,000. She described financial challenges for all Alaska youth courts. She cited statistics about the success of youth courts. 3:47:47 PM DON FORD, SELF, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), urged support for the HUB program for triage services and testified in opposition to reductions for therapeutic courts. 3:49:27 PM ROSE LOERA, DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES, BRISTOL BAY AREA HEALTH CORPORATION, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), testified in support for additional funding for direct care at community health centers, specifically in rural areas. She reviewed the ten communities with community health centers in Bristol Bay and described services and history. She noted that there had been an increase in preventative care since becoming a community hospital. She described rising costs. 3:52:05 PM TINA REIGH, VOLUNTEER, S.A.F.E. and ATTORNEY, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), testified in support of the $550,000 increment for shelters for victims of domestic violence. She voiced support for the continuation of funding for statewide legal advocacy program for victims of crime. She testified in support of funding for the Civil Legal Services Fund for Alaska Legal Services. 3:54:18 PM PAGE O'CONNELL, SELF, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), testified in support for continued funding for the Civil Legal Services Fund. She described services provided and experience as an employee for an adult behavioral health program. 3:55:12 PM GINGER BAUM, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, S.A.F.E, DILLINGHAM (via teleconference), testified in support for continued funding for support programs for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. She described services and the need for funds to keep components of the current programs working. She specified the $550,000 increase in the Department of Public Safety budget to help meet the increased cost of health insurance, emergency transportation to the shelter, and training to remote villages. She asked the committee to adopt DPS recommendations to replace an expiring one-year federal grant for the legal advocacy program. She described the work of the legal advocate at the shelter, who provided direct services to over 100 people. She referred to rural pilot project capacity-building grants and requested an additional $200,000 to fully fund all four projects. 3:57:26 PM NINA ALLEN, THE CENTER AND MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE BOARD, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of substance abuse treatment for at-risk parents, care for victims of domestic violence, and early childhood education increments. 3:58:13 PM LOLITA BRACHE, FAMILIES FIRST, BEST BEGINNINGS, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She believed collaboration between educators and families was invaluable. 4:00:15 PM SHARON WHYTAL, PROJECT COORDINATOR, SOUTHERN KENAI PENINSULA COMMUNITIES PROJECT, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She noted that the goal of the Southern Kenai Peninsula Communities Project was to assess community needs and devise an action plan. She listed priorities of the community of Homer that matched budget items: Best Beginnings, public health nurses, care for victims of domestic violence, obesity funding, and substance-abuse treatment for at-risk parents. She pointed out that all of the increments fostered a shift towards prevention. 4:01:48 PM BONNIE BETLEY, SOUTHERN KENAI PENINSULA COMMUNITIES PROJECT and FAMILIES FIRST, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She spoke in support of funding for the Alaska Obesity Prevention and Control program, the substance-abuse treatment for at-risk parents, trauma informed care for domestic violence, and early childhood screening. 4:03:01 PM KAREN SHEMET, BIRTH 2 THREE, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She described progress made in the community related to early learning. 4:04:14 PM GINNY EPENSHADE, DIRECTOR, KENAI PENINSULA YOUTH COURT, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support for continued funding for the Alaska Youth Court. She wanted to see resources spent on prevention, intervention, and early childhood programs. 4:05:12 PM JERRY SCHOLAND, OWNER, KIANA LODGING, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He described experience and felt ATIA had done a good job. He did not want to return to an obsolete funding model. 4:06:03 PM AMY FETTERHOFF, BUSINESS OWNER, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. She spoke in support of increased funding for the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. She described experiences and needs of her home- school family. 4:08:12 PM KEN BERGMAN, FAMILIES FIRST, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. He urged increased funding for programs for all early childhood programs in Alaska. He stressed that investment in Alaska's children was critical for the development of Alaskans that would not be criminals. He listed the costs of funding a penal system, as opposed to the costs of infrastructure for early childhood; underlining that every dollar invested in early childhood would save seven dollars later in penal costs. 4:10:15 PM JILLIAN LUSH, DIRECTOR, BIRTH 2 THREE, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She urged continued and increased support for early childhood programs and listed the benefits. 4:11:19 PM MORGAN SICILIA, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for all programs supporting young children and families throughout the state. She testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. 4:12:13 PM MIRANDA WEISS, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She urged support for all early childhood programs throughout the state. She described experience as a parent. 4:14:39 PM ARDEN JEFFRIES, OWNER, SPYGLASS INN, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support of reduction of the Alaska Travel Industry Association required match. He described the savings from investing in tourism and recounted experience. 4:15:45 PM BEN FETTERHOFF, SELF, HOMER (via teleconference), testified in support for continued and increased funding for the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. He stressed that the scholarship would keep graduated young Alaskans in the state. 4:18:11 PM RENEE SCHOFIELD, BUSINESS OWNER and CHAIR, ADVISORY BOARD ON ALCOHOLISM & DRUG ABUSE (ABADA), KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support for the priorities put forward by the Alaska Mental Health Board, including substance-abuse treatment for at-risk parents, trauma- informed care for victims of domestic violence, and early childhood screening. She agreed that money spent on the early side of life was smart. 4:19:12 PM GINNY CLAY, PRESIDENT, KETCHIKAN GATEWAY BOROUGH SCHOOL BOARD, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support for the priorities put forward by the Alaska Mental Health Board and ABADA. 4:19:50 PM WOODY WILSON, SUPERINTENDENT, WRANGELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS, WRANGELL (via teleconference), testified in favor of continued and increased support for the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. He viewed the scholarship program as a "jobs program." He pointed out that 90 percent of Wrangell students went to either college or post-secondary training of some type; however, most of them went out-of-state. He hoped to keep students in Alaska and allow more to go. In addition, Alaskans would be trained for Alaska jobs. He maintained that Wrangell had been providing the education required for the program for over 15 years. 4:22:37 PM LESLIE RANDALL, SELF, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the early childhood screening package, substance-abuse treatment for at-risk parents, trauma-informed care for victims of domestic violence, and the rural peer support services. She noted that early intervention and diagnostic screening provided the best outcome for children with specific disorders, including Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). 4:24:28 PM AT EASE 4:24:28 PM RECONVENED STEVE RANDALL, SELF, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified in support of the priorities put forward by the Alaska Mental Health Board. He urged support for funding programs that provided support for families with children suffering from mental health problems. He stressed the importance of diagnosing mental health issues in children at a young age. He recounted experience as a foster parent. 4:31:40 PM MARINA ANDERSON, DISTINGUISHED YOUNG WOMEN SCHOLARSHIP, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), testified on behalf of herself and nine others in support of continued and increased funding for the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program. She thought the program would encourage young people to go to college, and to stay in Alaska. She noted success with similar programs in other places. 4:32:22 PM CHRIS BAUMAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SITKANS AGAINST FAMILY VIOLENCE, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of full funding of the $500,000 increment for personnel costs for domestic violence and sexual assault programs in the state. She noted that her organization served the villages of Kake and Angoon as well as Sitka; a rural outreach coordinator traveled to the village to provide training and coordinate responses to domestic violence and sexual assault. In addition, transportation was provided to victims from the villages that needed shelter. She pointed out that the cost of a one-way trip had gone up from $40 to $150. 4:34:01 PM GRETCHEN CLARKE, BOARD MEMBER, ALASKA PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION, SITKA (via teleconference), testified in support of obesity prevention efforts. She highlighted the current obesity situation in Alaska, noting that the state spent $477 million annually to treat medical conditions associated with overweight and obesity. 4:36:23 PM AT EASE 4:49:25 PM RECONVENED Bethel, Kotzebue, Barrow, Nome, Delta Junction, Unalaska,  and Offnets  Senator Olson thanked the testifiers and reviewed the issue. 4:51:05 PM LISA SUSUNAGA, PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE, NOME (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for public health nurses. She described the variety of services provided by public health nurses and described the significant health challenges in rural Alaska. She noted that Nome-based nurses traveled to and serviced 15 villages in the region and participated in regional events, including education, women's shelters, and senior and youth centers. 4:53:07 PM CHRISTINA KILBY, DIRECTOR, PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING, NORTON SOUND HEALTH CORPORATION, NOME (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for public health nurses. She emphasized that not approving the increment requested by the Department of Health and Social Services for the Division of Public Health for public health nurses in the region would affect public health nurses all over the state. She pointed out that the state constitution stipulates that the legislature provide for the promotion and protection of public health. Since Norton Sound Health Corporation had decided not to be a grantee of public health nursing services, the state was obligated to provide the services in the region. Senator Olson asked how long she had been in Nome. Ms. Kilby replied that she had been there four years. 4:56:01 PM LILY FAWN WHITE, COORDINATOR, YOUTH COURT, NOME (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the youth court. She described the youth court program in Nome and detailed that additional funding would allow for increased staff for Nome youth court. 4:57:34 PM GINA APPOLLONI, DIRECTOR, VILLAGE PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER (VPSO) PROGRAM, KAWERAK, INC., NOME (via teleconference), spoke in favor of additional funding for the VPSO program. She detailed that there had been an increase to 12 local VPSO positions; the result had been better recruitment, retention, and overall improved public safety in each of the Bering Strait Region communities. 4:58:56 PM ROY AGLOINGA, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, NORTON SOUND HEALTH CORPORATION, NOME (via teleconference), spoke in favor of funding for community health nurses. He pointed out that the community health aide program struggled to train and retrain aides without adequate public health nurse services. He noted that the region had many families receiving Medicaid services and that public health nurses provided prevention services that kept Medicaid costs low, such as well-child exams. He described services of the nurses, including addressing sexually-transmitted diseases and screening for domestic violence, substance abuse, and behavioral health problems. Mr. Agloinga pointed to high regional rates of sexual assault and domestic violence and listed services by the health corporation. He echoed support for the VPSO program, noting that some communities did not have VPSOs and that BPSOs helped the health aides. 5:01:59 PM SAM SCHMIDT, YOUTH COURT, NOME (via teleconference), spoke in support of Nome's youth court. He described the services of the youth court and positive outcomes for individuals and communities. 5:03:33 PM DEB TRAWGRIDGE, EDUCATION DISABILITY SPECIALIST, HEAD START AND EARLY HEAD START, KAWERAK, INC., NOME (via teleconference), testified in opposition to Head Start reductions. She listed the services provided to 12 Bering Strait communities. She spoke about the federal cuts, which would greatly reduce state services; 58 children (21 percent) of children in Head Start would be denied services. Statewide, 697 children would be denied services and 158 staff positions would be eliminated. She described the program services for families. 5:06:34 PM MALINDA BESSETT, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, HEAD START AND EARLY HEAD START, KAWERAK, INC., NOME (via teleconference), testified in opposition to Head Start reductions and requested an increase in funding for early education. She spoke about her region's Head Start and Early Head Start programs and its many benefits to the communities and the state. She detailed the amounts money saved as a result of an investment in Head Start, including medical costs, and the federal amounts that would be cut. She spoke to parent involvement in the program. 5:09:20 PM JOHN BOCKMAN, NOME (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the University of Alaska for the rural human services and behavioral health programs. He described the use of the funds. He testified in support of the governor's request for early learning, including for Head Start and Best Beginnings. 5:12:06 PM WILLIAM BROWN, OWNER, NOME LIQUOR AND GROCERY STORE, testified in support of the Alaska Cabaret Hotel and Restaurant Association (CHARR) legislative priorities and funding for projects helping victims of fetal alcohol syndrome. 5:13:21 PM MARY WEISS, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA SCHOOL OF NURSING and OUTREACH COORDINATOR, BETHEL NURSING PROGRAM, BETHEL (via teleconference), testified in support of the UA Recruitment and Retention of Alaska Native Nurses (RRANN) program. She emphasized that the program reached beyond Anchorage. She described the need for nurses in rural areas with local knowledge and values that reflected the patients served. She believed a locally-grown nursing workforce benefitted the students, the communities, and the quality of patient care, and that the RRANN program was a fundamental and indispensable part of the effort. She mentioned ten other nursing school outreach sites using the RRANN resource, including Sitka, Valdez, Nome, Dillingham, and Fairbanks. 5:14:55 PM CHRISTINE MOSES, BETHEL (via teleconference), testified in support of the UA RRANN program. She described the program and the importance of the stipends for students and other support services. 5:16:44 PM NIKKI POLLOCK, BETHEL (via teleconference), testified in support of the RRANN nursing program. She shared research that had shown that Alaska Natives made up 1.5 percent of the nursing workforce in 1996, while Alaska Natives made up 16 percent of the general population. She maintained that Native nurses understood verbal and non-verbal communication and provided better patient care. She described her experience with the program. 5:18:23 PM LATESIA GUINN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BETHEL FAMILY CLINIC (via teleconference), spoke on behalf of the Alaska Primary Care Association in favor of funding for community health centers in Alaska. She detailed that Bethel had one of 25 health centers and described work done in the communities. 5:19:17 PM JENNIFER SCHIEDLER, BOARD MEMBER, BETHEL FAMILY CLINIC (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for Alaska's community health centers. 5:19:53 PM CLARK DAVIS, BETHEL (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for legal services. He spoke in support of SB 62, advocating for release of funds from the civil legal fund. He described the need for Alaska Legal Services. 5:20:38 PM VICKI MALONE, BETHEL (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the RRANN program. She noted the nursing shortage in Bethel; the cost to support a temporary duty (TDY) nurse was over $6,000 per month. She guessed that millions of dollars had been spent for housing and travel for TDY nurses. She testified in support of the RRANN program. 5:21:46 PM MICHELLE DEWITT, DIRECTOR, TUNDRA WOMEN'S COALITION, BETHEL (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. 5:22:59 PM AT EASE 5:23:22 PM RECONVENED Ms. DeWitt continued that she supported funding for travel for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. She spoke in favor of funding for legal advocacy, which she described as the second busiest program at the women's coalition; there were over 100 protective orders in the past calendar year. She voiced support the Rural Pilot Prevention Project and the Alaska Legal Services. 5:25:12 PM CAROL PAVIAN, BETHEL (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding for legal advocacy services. She spoke about the need for legal help for rural families. 5:26:44 PM HELEN SIMMONDS, MEMBER, KEY COALITION OF ALASKA, BARROW (via teleconference), spoke in support of the behavioral health services, especially the brief stabilization services and the intensive intermediate intervention services. 5:28:33 PM GINNY WALSH, PROGRAM COORDINATOR, ARCTIC WOMEN IN CRISIS, BARROW (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. She spoke especially about emergency funding for transportation necessary for those women requiring the help in villages. She spoke in support of the legal advocacy program, which she believed was critically needed. 5:29:30 PM ELAINE RITTGERS, ADVOCATE, ARCTIC WOMEN IN CRISIS, BARROW (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. She noted that the funding was necessary to provide services in the outlying villages. 5:30:08 PM DAWNDEE IPALOOK, MEMBER, ARCTIC WOMEN IN CRISIS ADVISORY BOARD, BARROW (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. 5:30:59 PM CAROLYN SHOLLEY, ADVOCATE, ARCTIC WOMEN IN CRISIS, BARROW (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. She stressed the need for funding for transporting people from Barrow to emergency shelters. She voices support for funding for needed legal advocacy services. 5:32:48 PM BROOKE GONDARA, PRESIDENT, ILISAGVIK COLLEGE, BARROW (via teleconference), testified in support of full funding for the college workforce development proposal. She described the college as a non-profit public institution that had served students from throughout Alaska with on-site training and apprentice-level courses in building trades and heavy equipment, as well as degrees in health- and business-related fields. She stressed the need for increased funding for training. She cited statistics about services delivered. 5:34:59 PM CHERYL HUMME, ADVOCATE AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR, ARCTIC WOMEN IN CRISIS, BARROW (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's increase for the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse. She described her work traveling around and educating people about services available. She spoke in support of funding for the legal advocacy program. 5:36:12 PM SANDY SOLENBURGER, NORTH SLOPE IMAGINATION LIBRARY (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She described the Imagination Library Program, which provided a free book each month to each child under the age of five years of age. She spoke about the vast benefits of having books in the homes of young children. 5:38:07 PM PAM KYLE, UNALASKA (via teleconference), testified in opposition to Head Start reductions. She commented on the benefits of early childhood education. 5:39:17 PM MARIE SCHLIEBE, HEAD START COORDINATOR, ALEUTIAN PRIBILOF ISLANDS ASSOCIATION, UNALASKA (via teleconference), testified in opposition to Head Start reductions. She stated that Head Start benefited children and families and improved social and emotional skills, with life-long effect. She described services offered, including addressing health needs. 5:41:02 PM RICHARD PECK, BOARD PRESIDENT, ILIULIUK FAMILY AND HEALTH SERVICES CLINIC, UNALASKA (via teleconference), testified in support of the Iliuliuk Family and Health Services Clinic and especially community health centers. He described the program and services offered to fishermen and others. 5:41:51 PM SONIA HANDFORTH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ILIULIUK FAMILY AND HEALTH SERVICES CLINIC and PRESIDENT, ALASKA PRIMARY CARE ASSOCIATION, NOME (via teleconference), testified in favor of the inclusion of $3 million funding for Community Health Centers. She noted that the health center served the workers who caught and processed fish and that the industry generated millions of dollars for the state. The health center also partnered with Head Start, supported the local domestic violence center, and hosted medical students and residents. She pointed to federal cuts in funding and argued that clinics cut costs overall. 5:43:57 PM DIANE SCHULTZ, DELTA JUNCTION (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's performance scholarship program. She related personal family experience. 5:46:21 PM TRACEY SCHAEFFER, Early Learning and Family Program, Northwest Arctic Borough School District, KOTZEBUE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She testified in opposition to Head Start reductions. She voiced support for funding for public health nursing. 5:47:53 PM ANTHONY CRAVALHO, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT, MANIILAQ ASSOCIATION, KOTZEBUE (via teleconference), spoke in favor of funding for the Alaska Complex Behavior Collaborative, which provided services to those with disabilities in rural areas. He listed the benefits to families and the state. 5:49:25 PM ROB MASSENGILL, YUKON RIVER DRAINAGE FISHERIES ASSOCIATION, LOWER YUKON (via teleconference), testified in support of increased aid for Department of Fish and Game for the fisheries research and monitoring programs. He noted that the programs were useful in getting information and data out to those who were fishing on the river. 5:50:46 PM RACHEL DODD (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's performance scholarship program. She shared personal experience related to her son, relaying that it would be less expensive for him to attend college out-of- state without help from the performance scholarship program. 5:52:12 PM ANNA SAPPAH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALASKA ADDICTION PROFESSIONALS ASSOCIATION and MEMBER, ADVISORY BOARD ON ALCOHOLISM AND DRUG ABUSE, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), supported funding for treatment for substance abuse treatment for at-risk parents and trauma-informed substance-abuse treatment for victims of domestic violence. She urged funds to be directed to the Division of Behavioral Health. She spoke to the revenue brought into the state by alcohol taxes. Currently, half of the money collected went to substance abuse treatment and prevention, and she hoped that amount would increase. 5:53:22 PM JEANNE GERHARDT-CYRUS (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the complex behavioral health collaborative, substance abuse treatment for at-risk parents, the early-childhood screening package, trauma- informed care for victims of domestic violence, and rural care support services. She spoke to experience with family members in out-of-state facilities. 5:54:50 PM BARRY SCHIMMACH, EAGLE RIVER (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the governor's performance scholarship program. He spoke to the state's "brain drain" and about the value of retaining Alaskans with the scholarship. 5:56:26 PM LYNETTE HART, EARLY CHILDHOOD COALITION, GUSTAVUS (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. She believed support to early learning was crucial and reported on services in Gustavus. 5:57:39 PM BEVERLEE TYNER, SERVICE COORDINATOR, TLINGIT AND HAIDA SENIOR HOUSING, KLAWOCK (via teleconference), testified in support of the Alaska Legal Services program. She requested funding for the Public Health system and for behavioral health programs. 5:59:26 PM SUSAN DENISON, MEMBER, AVTEC BOARD, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's proposal for the AVTEC registered nursing program in Anchorage. She provided information about the program, which she felt was excellent and needed. 6:00:41 PM HERB SCHROEDER, VICE-PROVOST and FOUNDER, ALASKA NATIVE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING PROGRAM, UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of the UA science, math, and engineering program in high school. He spoke in favor of funding for the governor's performance scholarship program. He described the program and informed the committee that there were 700 students involved from 95 communities statewide. He noted the amount of scholarship funds needed. 6:02:18 PM SHELLEY HUGHES, GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS DIRECTOR, ALASKA PRIMARY CARE ASSOCIATION, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), spoke in support of $3 million funding for direct-patient care for Community Health Centers in Alaska. She pointed out that there were 25 health center organizations running 142 clinics around the state; each clinic would receive only $21,000 on average, which would make a difference to clinics that had an average shortfall of $335,000 per year. She noted that without the funding, 25 providers would be cut. 6:04:23 PM ELLEN ADLAM, BOARD MEMBER, PENINSULA COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES OF ALASKA, KENAI PENINSULA (via teleconference), spoke in support of $3 million funding for Community Health Centers in Alaska. She spoke to the need. 6:04:59 PM LYNN OSHEIM, DIRECTOR, PARENTS AS TEACHERS PROGRAM, HOONAH (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. 6:06:33 PM PATTY LINDUSKA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CAMAI COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER, NAKNEK (via teleconference), spoke in support of funding for Community Health Centers for direct-patient care. She stated that her center provided many vital services in the community and was operating on a tight budget. 6:07:28 PM PAUL KENDALL, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), expressed concern about the testimony on the operating budget. He thought that using children to receive funding was wrong. 6:08:50 PM PAUL IVANOFF, COMMUNITY BENEFITS DIRECTOR, NORTON SOUND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, ANCHORAGE (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the Alaska Center for Power and Energy $250,000 budget requests for renewable energy. 6:09:47 PM DERRICK MARTIN, ACTING CITY MANAGER, CITY of KOTZEBUE (via teleconference), testified in support of funding for the regional jail in Kotzebue. He spoke about support for the airport major resurfacing project and the Shore Avenue road rehabilitation. 6:11:10 PM CLARENCE GOULD, EASTERN ALEUTIAN TRIBES, INC. (via teleconference), spoke in favor of funding for community health care clinics. He reported the need in small and distant communities. 6:12:57 PM BRAD REICH, MAYOR, KIANA (via teleconference), testified in support of the governor's request for early learning and Best Beginnings. He advocated for the Alaska Performance Scholarship Program funding. He spoke in favor of the VPSO program. 6:14:36 PM LONNIE WALTERS, MEMBER, ADVISORY BOARD ON ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE, CRAIG (via teleconference), spoke in favor of substance abuse treatment funding. He relayed personal experience related to treatment. He spoke in favor of funding for treatment for at-risk parents, trauma-informed care for victims of domestic violence, and early childhood screening. 6:15:47 PM NANA KALMAKOFF, BRISTOL BAY AREA HEALTH CORPORATION, CHIGNIK LAKE (via teleconference), testified in support of Community Health Center funding. She described health center services in the area and emphasized the need for funding, especially for those who did not have health insurance. She noted the cost of health care in the villages. 6:17:11 PM JUANITA SMITH, NORTH SLOPE BOROUGH HEALTH DEPARTMENT, BARROW (via teleconference), spoke in favor of funding for the rural care support services for those with mental health issues and drug or alcohol problems. She described services provided, including a day program called Gathering Place Clubhouse. 6:18:17 PM DAVID SMITH, LICENSED SOCIAL WORKER, KETCHIKAN GENERAL HOSPITAL, KETCHIKAN (via teleconference), spoke in favor of funding for civil legal services. He believed the services were essential, from a hospital perspective. He reported good experience with the legal needs of patients and with a professional paralegal with Alaska Legal Services. 6:19:49 PM JANET BALICE, EARLY CHILDHOOD SPECIALIST, NOME PUBLIC SCHOOLS (via teleconference), testified in opposition to Head Start reductions. She spoke about the benefits of early childhood education. She quoted various statistics, including documentation that Northwest Arctic Region children were low in language and other areas when they entered preschool. She pointed out that Head Start educated the parents and teachers as well as the children. 6:22:05 PM Co-Chair Hoffman thanked testifiers for taking time to express their concerns. Senator Olson echoed the appreciation expressed by Co-Chair Hoffman. CSHB 108 (FIN) was HEARD and HELD in Committee for further consideration. CSHB 109 (FIN) was HEARD and HELD in Committee for further consideration.