Don't let ‘out of sight' mean out of mind

The second session of the 24th Alaska Legislature was gaveled in to action Monday. Members of the local legislative delegation are back in Juneau, faced with a slew of prefiled bills and the usual assortment of big-picture issues.

History tells us that since it's an election year, difficult decisions, especially ones about revenue and spending, are likely to be deferred. But, as is always the case, much depends on voters.

Alaska presents many geographic challenges to residents, and the distance between here and the capital is one of them. But just because legislators are far away, does not have to mean they are out of reach.

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, it is easier than ever for concerned citizens to make their feelings known to their elected officials and to keep up with information coming out of Juneau.

Much is available from the comfort of home for those with a computer. The Legislature's Web page, found at http://w3.legis.state.ak.us, has links to legislators, bills, teleconference and committee schedules and so much more, including the Public Opinion Message System, which allows users to send a 50-word message to a legislator, committee or caucus.

Public opinion messages can also be hand-written and filed at the local Legislative Information Office, 600 E. Railroad Ave. in Wasilla. Befitting its name, the LIO, open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., is a veritable information clearinghouse, as well as a place for residents to go to listen to or provide testimony during a teleconferenced hearing. For more information, call 376-3704.

Residents have a lot at stake during this legislative session. With so many options at hand, there is no excuse for not making your voice heard.

Contact information for individual legislators is listed below.

Sen. Lyda Green

State Capitol, Room 516

Juneau, Alaska 99801-1182

Phone: 877-465-6601; Fax: 907-465-3805

E-mail: Senator_Lyda_Green@legis.state.ak.us

Sen. Charlie Huggins

State Capitol, Room 417

Juneau, Alaska 99801-1182

Phone: 800-862-3878; Fax: 907-465-3265

E-mail: Senator_Charlie_Huggins@legis.state.ak.us