Hey East Anchorage,

Early voting has begun! Below is a quick update on how, where and when you can vote now through November 5. I have also been busy in the district, read more about my latest meetings.

In-Person Voting Has Begun

Early and Absentee In-Person voting began today, Oct 21. Take a moment to review your schedule and weather forecast to consider the best time to cast your ballot ahead of the Election Day rush. There are plenty of opportunities to vote! Look up hours and locations across the state here. Election Day is Tues, Nov 5.

Vote By Mail, Fax, or E-Mail

If you want your absentee ballot mailed to you, wherever you are and for any reason, you can still apply online here through Sat, Oct 26. You can also request your ballot to be sent by fax or e-mail.

If you plan to vote by mail, make sure to have your ballot envelope witnessed and signed on the back. This requirement is still law. Get your envelope postmarked on or by Nov 5 for it to count.

And if you don't have the two stamps to send your ballot, USPS will still make sure it is delivered.

Please contact my office if you experience any issues casting your ballot.

Touring East Anchorage Schools

Last week, Principal Witthoeft of Begich Middle School met with Rep. Mears and me to discuss teacher recruitment and retention, school funding, and snow plowing in the area. Principal Witthoeft grew up in East Anchorage and is a product of our local schools himself. It was great to meet an educator who is so personally invested in our community. We have much more work to do to ensure today's students are tomorrow's leaders in Alaska.

I was also pleased to hear about the early success of Begich Middle School's cell phone policy. I am interested to learn more about what you think as parents and educators about implementing rules about cell phones in schools statewide. Please feel free to drop me a line.

Meeting at Chester Park

Big thanks to Chester Park Cooperative for inviting Rep. Mears and me to speak with residents about this past legislative session. We had a great discussion about the Permanent Fund, oil taxes and revenue, energy, elections, and school funding.

Alaska Native Heritage Center Celebrates 25 Years

As the Alaska Federation of Natives Convention wrapped up this past weekend, Rep. McCormick and I had the honor of presenting a citation to East Anchorage's own Emily Edenshaw for her tremendous work as President and CEO of the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Located in East Anchorage, ANHC is celebrating 25 years of educating Alaskans and visitors alike about Alaska's rich and diverse indigenous cultures.

Meet Your Neighbors, Get Involved

Community Councils are in full swing. Below are links and info for the next community council meetings of Senate District K:

Scenic Foothills: Thursday, November 7, 6:30 PM, at Congregation Beth Sholom and Zoom.

Russian Jack: Wed, November 13, 6:30 PM at Zion Lutheran Church and Zoom.

Northeast: Thursday, November 21, 7:00 PM at Creekside Park Elementary and Zoom.

Please feel free to reach out to my office if you need assistance or want to share an idea or have a question. I’m always happy to help.

Warmly,