Senator Ellis....Johnny....my friend. I had the distinct honor of working as one of your staff for four years in the Legislature.  Then there are the fond memories of singing together as "Bear-A-Tones" at Bartlett High School; I was happiest when we were paired up together.  Ah...Those were the days!  However, I have never been more  proud of you than I am right now! Being gay is not who you are, Johnny, it's what you are.  Who you are shines brightly in the 29 years of tireless public service you have given to Alaska.  Who you are is a true champion for children, the disenfranchised and the elderly.  Who you are is a man who truly loves Alaska and it's people. Who you are is a man greatly respected by his peers, constituency and friends.  Even though you won't be serving in the Senate anymore, your legacy will long be felt in those hallowed halls.  It took courage to share your personal story with us, but that just makes me love and respect you all the more.