Dear Members:

The New Year is well underway. It’s hard to believe that it’s already February. Time passes quickly when you are busy and January was a very busy month at the Center, highlighted by the 2nd Annual Statewide Economic Forecast Luncheon that was held on 13 January.

Nearly 500 business and government leaders gathered for this year’s event to hear the 2005 forecast as well as the other presentations on China and the state’s export performance. We were honored this year to have Alaska Governor Frank Murkowski make the opening remarks.

Governor Murkowski and Joe Henri, Chair of WTCAK Board

If you are interested in having a printed copy of the 2005 forecast, we will have them available in about a week from now. The printed version contains all of the graphs and charts presented at the luncheon but also a comprehensive narrative that outlines the outlook for each of the state’s major industries and economic drivers.

The reports are available for $30 and you can order your copy(ies) now by calling 278-7233 or by e-mailing us at info@wtcak.org. You can purchase the report using a cheque or credit card (MasterCard, Visa or American Express).

In early January we had an excellent presentation on economic development strategies by Lance Miller, the executive director of the Juneau Economic Development Council. Lance spoke about his views on how to approach economic development and also updated us on new developments in Southeast Alaska.

Also last month we were very pleased to partner with the Japan-America Society of Alaska, the Alaska World Affairs Council and the Export Council of Alaska to present a special luncheon featuring Japanese Consul- General Akihiro Aoki. A sold-out audience filled the Chart Room of the Hilton Anchorage Hotel to hear Aoki’s presentations on socio-economic challenges facing Japan now and into the future. Our many thanks to Consul-General Aoki for making this timely and informative presentation.

Mark your calendar now for our monthly luncheon meeting on Wednesday, 2 March 2005. Our guest speaker will be Mort Plumb, Director of the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. He will provide a report on facility developments as well as an update on cargo and passenger service. The luncheon will be held in the fifth floor conference at Wells Fargo Bank Building (corner of Northern Lights and "C" street). The luncheon gets underway at 12 noon. Call the Center at 278-7233 to RSVP.

Remember to visit our web site (www.wtcak.org) on a regular basis for updates, announcements and special reports.


Until Next Week,


Greg Wolf

Executive Director