Sunday, December 21, 2008
Alaska Update: Sarah Palin in the News in Alaska
Like the rest of the nation, the Palin family is in the holiday rush, trying to get their work done before spending quality time with family and friends for Christmas. On the lighter side, the Governor continued the annual reception at the Governor’s Mansion (pictured left). Despite the festive feel of the holiday season, the Gov. has been dealing with some very serious issues, both in her personal life and in her public life.
Sarah a runner-up for Time Person of the Year: The MSM loves to hate her, but the fact is that she is still compelling. Time Magazine named President-elect Obama Person of the Year. They named Sarah one of five runners-up, noting “more Americans had decided to tune in to her speech than watched the Olympics’ opening ceremonies in Beijing.”
Plan to Improve Alaska Ferry Infrastructure: The Palin administration wants to buy the Prince Rupert, B.C., ferry dock. The governor’s proposed public works spending plan includes money toward taking over and rebuilding the city-owned structure. The State of Alaska operated the Alaska Marine Highway, which is a system of ferries serving the Alaska coast from Dutch Harbor on the west to Bellingham, Washington. There are several stops in Canada. The facilities in Prince Rupert, B.C. are in need of repair.
No Raise, Thank You Very Much: As part of the budget process, a special commission made several fiscal recommendations. One of those recommendations was to raise the salary of the governor from its current $125,000 to $150,000. The Gov. would have none of it. She stated that she did not ask for a raise and does not think that taking one in the middle of a term is ethical.
Members of Palin Family Church Rally after Fire: Members of the Wasilla Bible Church were the victims of a fire. Did they express outrage? No. Did they cast blame? No. Did they go join other churches? No. They gathered in large numbers in the gymnasium of a local school. You just can’t stop people of faith from worshiping God.
Christmas Reception: The Gov. hosted the annual reception at the Alaska governor’s mansion.
State Budget: The preparation of the budget is in full swing. The Palin administration has submitted a budget that will hold spending in check, with decreases in many areas. Alaska state revenues are based on the price of oil. The budget is based on an average price of oil of $75 per barrel. The current price is $40 per barrel.
