Governor Palin proposed a revised oil tax system for the state and formally set next month’s special legislative session in Juneau. Plus, tribal leaders work to ensure one of the most pristine rivers on the planet stays clean. Those stories and more on tonight’s Alaska News Nightly, broadcast statewide on APRN stations.
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Palin releases new PPT proposal and calls Legislature to Juneau
Dave Donaldson, APRN – Juneau and David Shurtleff, APRN – Anchorage
Governor Sarah Palin says she has chosen Juneau as the site for next month’s special session of the Alaska Legislature, where state lawmakers will convene to re-examine the controversial Petroleum Profits Tax (PPT). She also unveiled her own oil tax proposal which she believes should replace the current system. (Photo by David Shurtleff, APRN)
Kott and Weyhrauch on trial tomorrow in latest federal corruption prosecution
Steve Heimel, APRN – Anchorage
The corruption trial of two former state legislators begins tomorrow. Pete Kott of Anchorage and Bruce Weyhrauch of Juneau are accused of offering their legislative services to VECO Incorporated in exchange for jobs and other considerations. Today federal Judge John Sedwick issued two orders limiting the prosecution’s case.
Wade arraigned on bank fraud charges, more charges may follow
Len Anderson, KSKA – Anchorage
Joshua Wade was arraigned late this afternoon in U.S. District Court in Anchorage on charges that he used Mindy Schloss’ ATM card in the days immediately following her disappearance.
Photo: leonardslanding.com
Lodge in Yakutat suffers major fire amidst fishing charter high season
Melissa Marconi-Wentzel, KCAW – Sitka
A major fishing lodge and restaurant in Yakutat — Leonard’s Landing Lodge — burned to the ground Monday afternoon. It was the biggest fire to hit the small Southeast fishing village in recent years.
Yukon River attracting tribal conservation efforts and scientific interest
Dixie Hutchinson, KNBA – Anchorage
The Yukon River is considered relatively unspoiled. It runs about 2,500 miles from its headwaters in Canada to the Bering Sea on Alaska’s west coast. Scientists consider it a haven for research because no major dams or levees obstruct its flow. And tribal leaders and researchers are taking steps to insure the Yukon River remains pristine.
Audio Postcard: Commuting 1,000 miles to Juneau on Alaska’s ferry
John Ryan, KTOO – Juneau
Now that it’s September, the busy season on the Alaska Marine Highway is drawing to a close. Car-decks packed with RVs and solariums filled with tents will soon give way to the much quieter voyages of the off-season.
