The state is expanding its support for mariculture. Governor Sean Parnell this week signed a bill creating a revolving loan fund for shellfish farms.
Ed Schoenfeld, CoastAlaska
New DNA tests could help map human migration
A new genetic-testing effort could provide more information about the connections Tlingits and Haidas have with other tribal groups. A University of Pennsylvania expert is in Southeast to collect DNA samples. He’s hoping for cooperation from those attending this week’s Celebration 2012 cultural festival in Juneau.
Celebration 2012: The region’s largest Native gathering
Celebration 2012 begins Thursday morning with the grand entrance, led by the Xudzidaa Kwáan Dancers of Angoon. More than 50 other groups from Alaska, Canada and the Lower-48 will take the stage during the Thursday-through-Saturday event, which is Southeast Alaska’s largest Native cultural gathering.
More people running for the Alaska Legislature
More Alaskans are filing to run for the state Legislature as the deadline approaches.
Many legislative races remain unchallenged
With the filing period nearly over, more than a third of the legislative seats on this year’s ballot remain unchallenged. Candidates have until 5 p.m. Friday (June 1) to submit their paperwork to the state Division of Elections.
Court ruling restores SE Native influence district
Some Southeast Native leaders are relieved that the latest redistricting plan was thrown out in court. Tuesday’s action by the Alaska Supreme Court restored a Native-influence district in the region.
Numbers up for Alaska cruise ship season
The first cruise ships of the 2012 season have begun sailing through Southeast Alaska. More ships will make port calls this year than last, and some of their passengers will reflect new industry trends.
Thomas: Energy fund, harbors top session work
Haines Representative Bill Thomas spent much of this year’s session working on the state’s operating budget. He also got projects into the capital budget for his widespread district, made up of villages and small cities from Metlakatla to Prince William Sound.
Place names book documents Southeast Alaska history
A new book from the Sealaska Heritage Institute and the University of Washington Press presents about 3,000 Southeast Alaska Native place names. Many came close to being lost, replaced by Western labels.
Juneau School District restores some staff cuts
Juneau’s School Board has restored some jobs and programs slated for cuts. But other positions on the chopping block will still be eliminated.