Yep, definitely part of the Northwest. I work for Navy Region Northwest, and we include Alaska. I've been wanting to visit there since the early 70's. Still haven't made it.

Alaska is beginning to celebrate 50 years of statehood ... keep your eyes and ears open, there will be lots of media about it nationally and internationally. The actual anniversary date is Jan 3, 2009, but there will be "events" leading up to it. This would be a good year to visit: it's safe to travel here, our Canadian neighbors are very friendly, Alaskans are unpretentious and mostly speak English (of a Navy kind of style sometimes!) and accept American currency!

We Alaskans think of ourselves as being a part of the NW, but we have a character and geography that's unique in the NW in addition to our similarities. I've set up a group: "Alaska is HOT!" for anyone, Northwesterner and otherwise, who wants to share their Alaskan experiences or who wants to have one (or more!) Stop in and share your thoughts, stories and questions.

Yes.. You are part of the NW. The most beauitful Northern part. 14 years ago or so, drove the AlCan Hwy. Loved it! You are blessed.

Thanks, Carla ... We share the NW with you ... and with British Columbia, too.

Hi Folks and fellow Northwesterners ... there are some links about traveling to and visiting Alaska posted in the "Alaska is HOT!" group. FYI.

My God, 50 Years! I was 11 and living in Anchorage the year it became a state. It makes me sound REALLY old.

Thanks to my Dad, I even have a Jim Beam special edition statehood bottle. I remember all the hoopla and bragging about how Alaska beat out Texas in size. Seems like there were a lot of "ex-Texans" living in Anchorage back then.