August 9-11, 2013
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA - Organized by the The Explorers Club North Pacific Alaska Chapter with the support of the Office of the Lt. Governor of the State of Alaska the first meeting of the World Sky Race Alaska Local Organizing Committee (ALOC) was held at the Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage. Jim Fowler, Host of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom and 1994 Explorers Club Medalist, introduced the World Sky Race to Explorers and friends in Alaska. As the program key speaker, Jim Fowler recommended that a formal local organizing committed be established to represent the State of Alaska's citizens in being included on the potential RACE route.
Art Mortvedt accepted to be a Member of the World Air League Advisory Board of Directors and the ALOC. Mr. Mortvedt earned admiration around the world for his flights to both poles in the famed "Polar Pumpkin", a single engine Cessna 185.
Alaska Captain Joshua Lewis and Captain Victoria Lewis, both members of the Explorers Club added their capabilities to the ALOC. Both are active in the Alaska based foundational communities and both are involved in educational programming for Native Alaskans.
“Alaskans should pay attention to this and get involved,” said Lt. Gov. Treadwell. “Not just because the competition of aerial giants is thrilling, but because of the opportunity airships bring to Alaska. The money that could be saved by airship delivery of goods to our remote and scattered communities off the road system is significant.”
Stevie French the host Good Morning Alaska discussed in a live interview with Don Hartsell, Commissioner of the World Air League the potential for an Alaska role in planning the RACE route through the Arctic. The meeting focused on recruitment actions for involving the business and foundational organizations for providing manpower, logistic support and funding resources.
The World Air League is reviewing the alternative routes to travel from Japan to North America. According to Don Hartsell, Commissioner of the World Air League, "Safety is the single most important factor in choosing the routes. We must determine whether it is technically doable and will the prevailing weather conditions allow passage. After resolving the safety issues, the World Air League looks to the local community for its engagement and efforts to Embrace the Race!"
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The Explorers Club North Pacific Alaska Chapter Jim Fowler introduces the World Sky Race to Alaska |
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Lt. Gov. Treadwell Promotes Alaska’s Participation in World Sky Race “Lighter than Air” Airships to Circle the Globe |
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Alaska Local Organizing Committee |
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Senator McGuire To Speak at World Sky Race Committee Meeting |
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Public Radio News for Kodiak |
Talk of the Rock Alaska’s Potential Role in Airship Race |
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'Need for Speed' Not Required for World Sky Race'
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