ak_gov_knowles
GOVERNOR TONY KNOWLES
Age: 55 Born: January 1, 1943; Tulsa, Oklahoma Education: Yale University, B.A. (1968) Military: U.S. Army (1962-65) Family: Married - Susan; Three children Hometown: Anchorage, Alaska Religion: Christian Career: Governor (1995-present); Candidate for governor (1990); Restaurant owner (1969-present); North Pacific Fisheries Management Council (1988-1989); Anchorage Mayor (1982-87); Anchorage Assembly (1975-79) |
• Knowles enrolled at Yale University when he was just 16 years old. After two years, he decided to enlist in the Army and left school to serve with the 82nd Airborne Division. As part of his military experience, he served in Vietnam from 1964 to 1965. After the Army, he returned to Yale and graduated with a degree in economics in 1968.
• After finishing college Knowles went to Alaska to work as a roughneck for an oil drilling company in 1968-69, but he left the oil fields to open two restaurants. He still maintains an interest in the Downtown Deli and Cafe.
• In 1972, Knowles served on a citizens' committee to develop a comprehensive plan for Anchorage's growth and development. In 1975, he was elected to the Anchorage Assembly, which is similar to a city council, and reelected in 1976. In 1979, he did not seek re-election and returned to private business.
• Knowles was elected mayor of Anchorage in 1982 and served two terms. One of his most popular initiatives was to establish the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a 10-mile recreation path (subsequently named after him) along AnchorageÂ's western coastline. The trail attracts thousands of runners and bicyclists, and even skiers in the winter.
• In 1990, Knowles made a run for governor, but he placed second to independent Walter Hickel. When Hickel retired after one term, Knowles ran again in 1994. This time he ws elected -- by only a 536 vote margin over Republican James Campbell and two other minor party candidates. Knowles is the 9th governor of Alaska.
• Though popular as governor, Knowles has earned criticism from environmental groups because of his support of the oil industry. Knowles has lobbied Congress and the White House to lift a ban on drilling for oil in the refuge along AlaskaÂ's Arctic coast.