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.