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Democrats fail to stop refuge drilling plan
Liz Ruskin, Alaska Public Media – Washington D.C.
The U.S. Senate Energy Committee voted to allow drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. “We’re not going to stop fighting,” a dismayed Gwich’in leader said. “We can’t. This is our way of life. This is everything that we know.”
Despite technical and economic hurdles, Conoco’s newest development starts producing oil
Elizabeth Harball, Alaska’s Energy Desk – Anchorage
The project, called 1H NEWS, had to overcome several challenges.
Senators heard about permanent fund problems before leaving
Andrew Kitchenman, KTOO – Juneau
Alaska’s Senate decided to end its work this special session without voting on a bill to tax income. Governor Bill Walker’s administration says the tax is needed to close the gap between what the state spends and what is raises.
Bristol Bay Native Corp. against Stand for Salmon initiative
Dave Bendinger, KDLG – Dillingham
Despite firm opposition to the Pebble Mine, BBNC believes HB 199 and the Stand for Salmon ballot initiative threaten responsible resource development and possibly even subsistence activities.
Haines residents, representatives push back on local government drone use
Abbey Collins, KHNS – Haines
The use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, or drones, by the Haines Borough has raised concerns about privacy and local government overreach.
Police hope to launch drones over Anchorage — with limits
Zachariah Hughes, Alaska Public Media – Anchorage
The Anchorage Police Department wants to add drones to its tool-kit, but elected officials have some concerns.
Two more acres of land protected at Potter Marsh wildlife refuge
Emily Russell, Alaska Public Media – Anchorage
Community members in Anchorage rallied together recently to help protect one of the most popular birding spots in the city.
Former state trooper dies in Alaska prison
Associated Press
A former commander of the Fairbanks detachment of the Alaska State Troopers has died in prison while serving a sentence for sexual abuse of a minor.
Alaska Airlines to discontinue flights to Cuba
Tom Banse, NNN – Oregon
Seattle-based Alaska Airlines on Tuesday announced it will discontinue flights to Havana after the holidays.
Kusko Liquor awarded Bethel liquor license
Christine Trudeau, KYUK – Bethel
The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board awarded Cezary Maczynski Bethel’s third and final package store liquor license on Monday, but the opening date for Kusko Liquor may be months away.
