I am honored to be a member of the Alaska Legislature, the Republican Party, and a continuing member of the Majority Caucus. Actions, good or bad, have consequences, and I accept the consequence imposed by the Republican caucus for my vote (re: longevity bonus, January 12, 2004). As an Air Force retiree, and a Vietnam veteran, I am honored to be a continuing member of the House Special Committee on Military and Veterans' Affairs, with another member serving as Committee Chairman.

I continue my strong support of the Longevity Bonus. Everyone's actions and votes on that issue are now history. If the minority attempts to continue debating the veto issue, it will be to serve their minority political agenda, rather than to help seniors who need help.

It's now time to press ahead on with other critical issues facing Alaska, with education, and a gas pipeline, at the top of my priority list.

# # #