Kusilvak area residents say families rely on the PFD so they can purchase the big-ticket items.
Western
After nearly 20 Years, NOAA surveys Norton Sound beluga whale population
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries, or NOAA Fisheries, in conjunction with two other Alaska entities, is conducting a survey of beluga whales in Norton Sound.
Nineteen new wildfires appear in western Alaska within a day
No injuries or building damages have been reported as a result of the fires in the Galena zone or the Deadman’s Slough fire. It is unknown when these fires will be put out.
Time pressure makes special session likely
The House and Senate are $230 million apart on a budget, there are no public signs the Senate and House will find common ground on a Permanent Fund plan, and the House continues to call for some form of broad-based tax as the Senate continues to oppose it.
Bethel to decide on lease for state air quality monitoring
Bethel City Council Member Leif Albertson hopes better monitoring will help inform policymakers in improving air quality for residents, especially those with chronic breathing conditions.
Shishmaref’s new “language nest” immerses toddlers in Inupiaq
The daily routine at the nest involves repetition to help the students remember various words in the Inupiaq language.
Senate votes down state income tax
Hoffman said he believes the state will eventually require an income tax, but it shouldn’t happen this year.
Eastman becomes first Alaska state representative to be censured
The House voted 25 to 14 to condemn Eastman for saying some women – including those who live in villages — are glad to become pregnant so they can receive Medicaid-funded travel to have abortions.
Bettors wait for the Kuskokwim Ice Classic Tripod to stop the clock
The Kuskokwim Ice Classic sold 7,381 guesses this year, raising more than $32,000. What doesn’t go to the winner, goes to youth groups around the Delta who worked to sell tickets.
Hunt opens for muskox stranded on Triangle Island
Fish and Game biologist Patrick Jones says the animal most likely floated over from the herd on Nunivak Island.