Sponsor Statement for HJR 62

A Resolution has been drafted to bring Balto "home" to Alaska.

A combined second and third grade class wrote letters to me requesting my help on having Balto returned from the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. This was inspired by a third grade student who read a book on the brave dog team that brought the much needed diphtheria serum to Nome in the mid-1920’s.

If the preservation of the past is to have the most effect in helping us keep a full perspective on the significance of historical events the preservation should be kept as close to the genesis of the event as possible. The question is, where is Balto most valuable and in what ways can his preservation best serve people.

I believe the answer is by being here in Alaska where others may draw inspiration in the continuation of the celebrated trek to Nome called the Iditarod race, which he along with other members of his team have inspired. It is here the world turns its attention each year to commemorate Balto’s feat. It is here the famous lead dog will have the most profound effect on the world and what the significance of the serum run still means.