Looks forward to serving

To the editor:

I am both humbled and honored to be selected by Gov. Sean Parnell to fulfill the remaining months of Rep. Carl Gatto’s legislative term to serve the people of District 13 (Palmer). Although my preference would have been that Rep. Gatto would have had the strength and health to complete his term as he had hoped, I am blessed to begin serving the people of the district and state that I love.

Last Friday, I was sworn in by House Speaker Mike Chenault in Palmer, witnessed by my family, friends and community members, city and borough officials, and legislative colleagues. It was heartwarming to see so many who had taken time from their busy schedules to be part of this defining moment in my life, but more importantly to be part of and support the transition for the people of Palmer of their representation in the Alaska State House.

I would like to thank Speaker Chenault and his staff, Tom Wright; and Rep. Bill Stoltze, Rep. Anna Fairclough, Rep. Eric Feige and Sen. Linda Menard for sharing this special occasion with me. My appreciation extends also to Palmer Mayor DeLena Johnson and the Palmer City Council members who attended, as well as the Mat-Su Borough Assembly and Mat-Su School Board members who came to the ceremony.

Mat-Su Senior Services (Palmer Senior Center) opened its doors after the ceremony to host a wonderful reception in its lovely facility. Many thanks to Ken Anderson, Richard Tubbs, Rachel Greenberg and the fine staff for rolling out the red carpet and welcoming the community to the reception. Visiting with the seniors was a highlight of my first official day as a legislator.

I also would like to thank the District 13 Committee for its vote of confidence and the many in the community who voiced their recommendations. I am grateful as well to Governor Parnell for allowing me the opportunity to serve the district residents. Last, but certainly not least, I am deeply thankful to my family for their support and sacrifice — and their willingness to share me with the community.

Now I look forward to meeting with the folks of District 13 and serving you well like my friend Rep. Carl Gatto did so faithfully.

Rep. Shelley S. Hughes

District 13, Palmer