Well, thank you. I appreciate your involvement in not only the energy issues, but from the perspective of the Interior and your focus on some of our challenges that we face here in the state.

I think you've heard from the previous two panels that there is no issue that is more paramount in the minds and in the lives of those out in the region, whether it's individuals or whether it's from the health care, education perspective…

So they delay care.

Well, isn't Alaska Marketplace looking at specifically giving grants to renewable energy ideas throughout Alaska?

What I'm hoping that we gain from this hearing this morning is solid data on how these price increases, the startling price increases, how they're affecting average Alaskans and Alaskan communities.

The solutions coming from the ground up are very important so I appreciate your leadership on that.

Well, and I think that is something that we can do whether it's AFN or First Alaskans or, I know, AEA, the tribal councils, we've got our own communication networks.

It's a challenge to explain some of what happens in your very extensive district.

I think it is incredibly significant that we are gathered here together in Bethel to listen to some individuals...

I want to applaud AVCP and Calista and those that are part of the regional plan here for really taking that initiative and setting forth proposals.

I think the leadership of this nation must take action right now to make, no matter where you live, that you make everything sustainable into the future.

But I think part of the frustration is, is that everyone thinks that we have to have a big energy plan in place before we can start implementing things.

I think it is very important, I think quite significant that we have other policy-makers from the state here to just listen, to hear what is going on in this region.

I will work with all of you. We will work with all of you.

All right. We'll work with you because we need to figure out a way to get there without impacting the fisheries resource there.

Good. Hopefully that will make a difference.

Good morning. We're calling to order this meeting of the United States Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

Thank you, Mr. Andersen, I appreciate, not only your testimony but your leadership.