Nome Schools May Find Funds for Music and Librarian
Superintendent Shawn Arnold says the savings from retiring long-time teachers’ higher salaries could keep the music program off the chopping block. As for the librarian, he says: talk to your elected officials.
Graphite One Clarifies Intent for AIDEA Funding; Senate Bill 203 On Hold
Graphite One is seeking funding now for its proposed mine in the Imuruk Basin along the Kigluaik mountains, even though the mine itself wouldn’t be operational for about five years.
Graphite Mine Bill Provokes Mixed Reactions in Western Alaska
While some people are optimistic about possible economic benefits of a proposed graphite mine on the Seward Peninsula, others express concern about the mine’s potential impact on subsistence.
Alaska Senate Passes Olson’s Resolution to Combat All-Inclusive Ivory Bans and Legislation
16 senators voted yes to SJR4 which urges Congress to exempt legally obtained walrus, mammoth, and mastodon ivory from other laws that ban ivory. Currently, the states of New York, California, Hawaii, and Washington have their own legislation that bans the possession and distribution of all ivory.
Discussion On Ivory Bans Continues; Nomeites Weigh In During Legislative Committee Meeting
On Monday, public comments were being solicited on Senate Joint resolution 4, sponsored in part by Senator Donny Olson. Among those who gave testimony were Alice Bioff, Vera Metcalf, and Melanie Bahnke. The resolution looks to spur the State’s Congressional delegation to introduce bills which would protect walrus, mammoth, and mastodon ivory from other ivory bans.