John W. Erickson, Jr.
Occupation: Staff Attorney
akswedes@mtaonline.net
Why do you wish to serve on the Board of Directors?
They say that the third time’s a charm. Let’s prove them right! I absolutely love the Alaska State Fair! To that end, it’s my desire to move the Alaska State Fair into the future by building upon that which our pioneer forbearers have already established; while at the same time, protecting both the rich history and tradition that makes the Alaska State Fair a family friendly celebration that each of us looks forward to throughout the year. For these purposes, and because I believe that I have much to contribute, I wish to serve on the Board of Directors.
Summarize work experience, including budgets and supervisory duties.
For the past five years I’ve worked as a Career Law Clerk and/or Staff Attorney for the U.S. District Court, District of Alaska. As my current employer will attest, I’m a self starter, of high integrity and discipline, and am well organized and capable of working alone, in group settings, and in highly demanding and often rigorous working environments. I have also received substantial administrative training, while completing my master's degree in the administration of justice, and have accumulated considerable managerial experience while serving as a Deputy Staff Judge Advocate General in the Alaska Air National Guard, and as a Squadron Commander in the United States Air Force Auxiliary, Civil Air Patrol. In addition, I have had occasion to clerk for the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, where I have honed my research, writing, and editing abilities. In sum, I’m proud of my academic record and believe that I have the communication, writing, and interpersonal skills necessary to perform exceptionally well in this position.
List any volunteer activities including board experience.
I truly believe that one person can make a difference. As a result, I’ve become a passionate community volunteer. For those that are interested in learning more about the same, the following is a sampling of my specific volunteer experience: Aerospace Education Officer (“AEO”), Blackhawk Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol (“CAP”), Sandy, UT, Oct 1998 - Jun 1999; AEO, Birchwood Composite Squadron, CAP, Jul. 2001 - Jul. 2005; Bear Paw District Committee Member (Board Experience) & Merit Badge Counselor, Boy Scouts of America, Palmer, AK, Nov. 2001 - Present; Deputy Commander for Cadets (Board Experience), Birchwood Composite Squadron, CAP, Chugiak, AK, Oct. 2003 - Sep. 2005; Commander (Board & Budget Experience), Birchwood Composite Squadron, CAP, Chugiak, AK, Sep. 2005 - Jan. 2006; Member, Alaska State Fair Rules Committee, Feb. 2007 - Present; and Commander (Board & Budget Experience), Mat-Su Minuteman Cadet Squadron, CAP, Wasilla, AK, Oct. 2007 - Present.
How have you participated in the Fair in the past?
I’m an avid fairgoer! I also regularly volunteer at the Anchorage Scottish Rite Bodies Food Booth, as well as the Masonic Information Booth and am proud to report that my family and I have eaten our way through the fair many times. That’s a lot of food for a family of nine!
Summarize what you value most about the Fair.
I value the Alaska State Fair’s unique ability to bring the community together and provide wholesome activities and/or events for all ages. I also appreciate its ability to showcase the State of Alaska in both a positive and uplifting manner. I have come to learn that attendance at the Alaska State Fair is therapeutic. It allows all who enter its gates to shed the worries of the world and enjoy the fun and adventure that is contained therein. My specific interests include: farm and/or livestock exhibits, family friendly activities, carnival rides; the Alaska Railroad; and, of course, the food, i.e., the vendors!
What is your vision for the Fair, and do you have specific goals?
Building upon that which it already is, I envision the Alaska State Fair becoming a place where family and friends can go to enjoy the splendor that is Alaska; especially, as Alaska’s rich summers draw to a close. I want the Alaska State Fair to become an event that all Alaskans look forward to each year; an event that makes each of us proud to live in our great state; an event that welcomes outsiders and makes them hungry for that which we enjoy year round. In order to make this happen, hard work (budgetary, calendaring, facilities maintenance, upgrading, etc.) is required of the Board of the Directors. I’m ready and willing to roll up my sleeves and get to it! In so far as specific goals are concerned, I’d like to see: (1) a tethered hot air balloon ride come to the Alaska State Fair in the near future; and, (2) the Alaska Railroad make additional runs to and from Anchorage throughout the fair.
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