Alaska State Senate passes bill to rename Ruby Airport as Harold Esmailka Airport
JUNEAU – Today, in a unanimous vote, the Alaska State Senate passed SB 152, renaming Ruby Airport as Harold Esmailka Airport. SB 152, sponsored by Senator Mike Cronk (R — Tok / Northway) and Senator Donny Olson (D — Golovin) would recognize one of Alaska’s most influential aviators and beloved community leaders, Harold Esmailka, by renaming the Ruby Airport in his honor.
Senator Cronk issued the following statement: “It’s a true honor to support the renaming of the Ruby Airport to the Harold Esmailka Airport. Harold is an amazing Alaskan native man who lived his life by example, through culture, inspiration, kindness, and the Lord. It is far past time that Alaska recognizes and honors our extraordinary citizens who inspired and shaped our people, communities, and state.”
“As an influential aviation pioneer in rural Alaska, Harold deserves this recognition,” said Senator Olson, “and it’s been an honor to work with Senator Cronk on this legislation.”
Additionally, but separate from SB 152, the Department of Transportation (DOT) shop in Ruby will be named after Traditional Chief Donald Honea, Sr. Donald worked as a DOT equipment operator and foreman for 35 years and has dedicated more than 30 years of his life to serving his community; he founded the Ruby Native Council, has served as the president of the Dineega Corporation, and has served in his local Community School Committee and City Council.
SB 152 now heads to the House where it will merge with its companion bill, HB 167, sponsored by Representative Neal Foster (D — Nome). The bill will then be considered during a House Floor Session. Follow the bill at www.akleg.gov or contact Paul Menke at Paul.Menke@akleg.gov or (907) 465-4527 for more information.
