It was a momentous year for people who have fought for and against the proposed Pebble Mine.
A News
Alaska fishermen cheer passage of the Young Fishermen’s Development Act through Congress
It would be the first program of its kind for fishermen. The U.S. government already sponsors comparable professional development programs for young ranchers and farmers.
Early data shows Alaska overdose rate increasing, while suicide rate stays constant
The state Section of Epidemiology published preliminary data this week showing that Alaska’s suicide rate hasn’t gone up in the first three quarters of 2020, though unintentional drug overdoses are continuing an upward trend from previous years.
There was no COVID-19 outbreak in Haines after disaster, despite evacuations and less social distancing
Only three Haines residents have tested positive for the coronavirus since the Dec. 2 disaster, according to state data. But according to the Haines Emergency Operations Center, those people have Haines addresses. None are actually in town.
Alaska’s state development corporation approved to spend up to $20M on ANWR oil leases
It’s a controversial move, and a way for the state to secure drilling rights in the coastal plain in case no one else bids on the leases.
Newcast – Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020
In this newscast: Before their deadlines passed, applications surged for two of Juneau’s pandemic relief programs designed to put thousands of dollars into locals’ hands; One program at Juneau’s Yaakoosgé Daakahidi High School is actually seeing students flourish with distance learning; Eaglecrest Ski Area’s season-opening was delayed because of record-setting rain and warm weather, and when it finally happened last Saturday, turnout was light; Bartlett Regional Hospital’s Board of Directors has a new president, among other changes to leadership.