The Wrangell sentinel., 1923-12-06

at last implanting itself. The world is belatedly learning that Alaska is blessed with ideal summers; that its winter weather in the interior and toward the Arctic is Ro more bleak and forbidding than that of the Northern and Northwestern States and that along its southern coasts its climate is mild and equable and tits ports are open all the year round. Moreover, although rich in resources exaggerated ideas that 1t is an Eldo- lrado with its mountains and streams laden with gold. are being dispelled. Visits such as have made the current year historic and memorable disclose and promulgate these facts.
 A fortnight's travel. if it extends beyond the Inside Passage, is illum- mating and general conditions may be seen and grasped; but the col lossal size of the Territory precludes the possibility of visualizing it as a whole even in a month or a year. Alaskans themselves, in major num- bers, have intimate knowledge only of sections of the great domain, and thus, naturally, consider and discuss Alaska questions largely in local or sectional terms. But they are as one in love of their adopted country and in confidence in its destiny. No where else is the American Spirit Imore pronounced and adamant.
 Of the inefficiency of Federal administration in Alaska, through Iinnumerable agencies constituting a bureaucratic form of government, Iofficial testimony based upon exper- fence, is in full accord. The system is too complicated to render satisfac- tory service. however earnest its aims, and this fact has been uni formly attested and emphasized by those who have been brought into direct contact with the system since Alaska became Territory and upon whom administration as whole has chiefly devolved. Upon this point there is and has been a perfect unan- unity of opinion. A simplified and centralized system brought closer home to Alaska is urgently and ob- viously needed to speed the progress of the Territory-"a shortening of the line of communication as much as possible between Alaska and Washington" as suggested by the late President, in order to bring about the closest cooperation and understanding between the national agencies" operating. in the Terri tory.
 It is gratifying to report that CO., operation in fuller degree and a better understanding have been at tained and that further coordination and increased efficiency are surely coming about. It is altogether mani fest, as stated in the report for 1922. that Alaska's destiny "can not be shaped at long range through multitudinous bureaus operating at long range, however commendable their aims and activities" and in this connection. to prevent misun- lderstanding, it is we'll to repeat that condemnation of bureaucratic con- trol docs not imply criticism of the bureaus, as such, constituting the system" and 'the value of their ex- Ipert services is not gainsaid or un- lderestimated." A centralized and coordinated organization, consist ently advocated by Governors in suc- cession for years, clearly would not rob Alaska of the expert service of any needed bureau or minimize its usefulness in the very least. On the contrary in promoting efficiency 1t would manifestly turn such expert service to fuller account, and in- crease the usefulness of the bureau.
 Resistance of administrative re- form invariably finds expression in the outcry that sinister influences are seeking to despoil Alaska and waste its resources. Such unworthy propaganda too often serves its de- signing purpose. Jealousy of off cial prerogative rather than concern for service plainly inspires 1t.
 Alaska requires conservation-fa- . vors it and welcomes 1t, and gives steadfast support to every practical : safeguard. existent or proposed, nec- , essary to prevent reckless exploita- , tion in any direction in the develop , ment of the Territory. A concen- [ tration of authority and responsibil. p ity-a business-like organization oi
 Alaska's affairs, in lieu of divided authority and responsibility-ce1 B Itainly would make for administrative
 efficiency and hasten the safe solu :, ition of Territorial problems. Tha,