photo by Libby Sterling
Senator Dennis Egan, CCW general manager Laura Newsom and CCW editor Katie Spielberger visit the Senate Chambers at the Capitol.
Senator Dennis Egan stands in the newly constructed skybridge, which links the existing Capitol with the newly renovated Capitol Annex. This upcoming session will be the first to utilize the Annex
Senator Dennis Egan, CCW general manager Laura Newsom, CCW editor Katie Spielberger and legislative aide Alida Bus observe the House Finance Committee Room at the Capitol.
Story last updated at 1/13/2010 - 12:40 pm
I have a confession. Since moving to Alaska in 1993, I've voted in every election and I've met the last four governors. I personally know all the Juneau house and senate representatives and my office is only two blocks away, but until this past Friday, I had never been inside our state Capitol.
This came up at a social function I was attending with our freshman Senator Dennis Egan. Surprised, he invited me for a personal tour. Dennis Egan may be a freshman senator, but he has grown up in the world of Alaska politics. His father, William "Bill" Egan served as the State of Alaska's first governor from 1959-1966 and served another term from 1970-1974. Sen. Egan assured me he was the best tour guide, and he did not disappoint.
We began our tour by admiring the massive columns at the steps. These pillars are made from light and dark Tokeen marble from quarries from Tokeen, Prince of Wales Island. They are simply stunning.
As you enter the building and head up stairs, you immediately get a sense of history. Originally, the Capitol was the Federal and Territorial Building and did not become the property of Alaska officially until 1958.
Construction started in 1929 and was completed in February of 1931. According to the state's website, the building had been remodeled in 1967 to give it "a modern Alaskan atmosphere." In 1980 the capitol saw an extensive restoration in some areas. This time care was taken to maintain the style of the "early years."
There are two things I noticed almost immediately. First, the walls are lined with the history of Alaska though photos and artifacts. The second thing I noticed was the care that has been taken to maintain the, what must be, miles of wood. The trim, the doors, the windows, it's simply breathtaking.
The building is very impressive, but I couldn't help but notice something was missing. The hallways were quiet as the session has not yet begun. I am looking forward to coming back to witness the "action" as it's happening.
I feel all Alaskans should have an opportunity to visit our Capitol. However, using myself as an example, you don't have to physically visit the Capitol to have your voice heard, or to keep up with what the Legislators are working on.
The State of Alaska has a wonderful website where you can see what is happening every day in your legislature, http://w3.legis.state.ak.us/. Today you'll find the first release of proposed house bills and resolutions. One House resolution already making news is HJR 37 relating to the Alaska Permanent Fund.
In next week's issue, to help you find your way, be sure to check our User's Guide to the Alaska State Legislature. We'll let you know how to contact your representatives and other helpful hints.
Hope you enjoy the photos of our tour. Many more photos can be seen on Spotted at http://www.capitalcityweekly.com/.
We would like to thank Senator Dennis Egan and his staff for their time.
It's your Legislature, be informed and be heard!
Laura L. Newsom is the general manager of the Capital City Weekly. She may be reached at
laura.newsom@capweek.com.
