swamc logo
crab boat
Economic Development and Advocacy for Southwest Alaska
2011 Meeting Update
Greetings!
As you are hopefully aware, the events of the 2011 Southwest Alaska Economic Summit & SWAMC Annual Membership Meeting are scheduled for February 9-11 at the Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage. The theme of this year's event is Strong Communities, Vibrant Economies, and we think the title represents the spirit and drive of Southwest Alaska rather well. Read on below for more details about the agenda, registration, sponsorship opportunities, and more. This certainly won't be the last email reminder of the month, but remember to register before January 28 to take advantage of the early registration. Thanks for reading- we hope to see you in February!
Strong Communities, Vibrant Economies.agenda cover
The 2011 Southwest Alaska Economic Summit & SWAMC Annual Membership Meeting is scheduled for February 10-11. The agenda has taken shape and the topics have been carefully considered, as once again we promise a few days full of valuable information and great networking opportunities for Southwest Alaska's stakeholders. We've created a home page for the conference where you can register for the events, view the preliminary agenda, reserve a hotel room, and more. If you'd like to become a sponsor for the 2011 meeting, please go here. Finally, if you are interested in having an exhibitor booth, please contact our office.

sea grantNew Feature: Coastal CommunitiesWorkshop
In addition to our traditional 2-day event, SWAMC is sponsoring a Coastal Communities Workshop with the Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program  on February 9th, also at the Captain Cook. The workshop will be an open dialogue and include presentations and discussions on various topics that are at the heart of thriving and healthy communities that reside on our rural coastlines. The Marine Advisory Program has a stable of knowledgeable experts on those issues that affect coastal life, from seafood harvesting operations to food security to small business potential. Most importantly, however, this workshop will provide a forum to discuss some of the characteristics that make coastal Alaska great, the challenges that lie ahead, and the opportunities to perhaps make coastal Alaska even better. This workshop will be a first for the SWAMC conference, so make sure to visit the link above to sign up. Registration is free and easy, so visit today.

Still Talkin' Energycfl breakout
Even though SWAMC won't be hosting an energy workshop this year in conjunction with the conference, we recognize it is still a vital centerpiece in our region's economy and everyday lives. On the afternoon of February 11th, we will explore ways to power our economies by looking at some new (and a couple "tried and true")  projects and programs that will hopefully bring down the cost of energy and heating for residents and businesses alike. The Alaska Center for Energy & Power will describe heat pumps and their application in Southwest communities. REAP will tell us about the Alaska Energy-Efficiency Revolving Loan Fun, an innovative program for municipalities and school districts aiming to reduce their energy expenditures on public buildings. We will hear from the Aleutian island community of Akutan and their plans to develop the state's first large-scale geothermal power system. Finally, the Alaska Energy Authority will detail Southwest Alaska's involvement in the state's Renewable Energy Grant Fund (a great success for SWAMC region communities) and the Energy Efficiency Community Block Grants given to cities and tribes through the 2009 stimulus act.
quillsSend in Your Resolutions!
The resolution process can be an effective way to advocate for our regional priorities and make policymakers and agencies aware of certain issues and programs that affect our communities. Previous resolutions have focused on a statewide energy policy, a dedicated transportation fund, fisheries management schemes, and other important policies. Resolutions may be submitted by any municipal or associate member of SWAMC and are accepted through email, snail mail, or fax (888.356.1206). Resolutions for this meeting should be received at the SWAMC office by February 4. Click here to read more on the resolution guidelines.

Regional Air Carrier Roundtableplane
Just before lunch on February 10th, we will have a roundtable discussion with a few of the commercial air carriers and cargo service providers for Southwest Alaska. Alaska Airlines, Era Alaska, Pen Air, and Northern Air Cargo will join us on stage. Attendees can use this opportunity to hear -and ask- about some of the route and service changes that took place during 2010, and what's in store for 2011. Air transportation is as vital as ever for our region's economy and quality of life, so this discussion should be a timely forum for residents and carriers alike.

Speaking of transportation, look to the left side of SWAMC's event registration page to read more about travel options and accommodations at the Hotel Captain Cook. Remember the special room discount for those staying at the hotel.


That's it for this event reminder. Stay tuned for more updated information in the coming weeks. And Happy New Year!
In This Issue...
Strong Communities, Vibrant Economies
Coastal Workshop
Energy...Not Forgotten
Send in Your Resolutions
Broadband Panel
Thanks to These Sponsors!

2011 Highliners

Sponsorship opportunities remain. Please click here or contact us for more details...
__________________
Some of our Partners
ardor

 

EDA

 
Upcoming Events & Dates to Remember
As always...
Thanks for your support of SWAMC. Please don't hesitate to share your thoughts, ideas, concerns and events. For previous newsletters, click the link below.