Alaska News Nightly: January 10, 2013

Individual news stories are posted on the APRN news page. You can subscribe to APRN’s newsfeeds via email, podcast and RSS. Follow us on Facebook at alaskapublic.org and on Twitter @aprn.

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Senator Begich Will Not Support Assault Weapons Ban

Peter Granitz, APRN – Anchorge

Vice President Joe Biden says he will deliver recommendations for new gun control measures to President Barack Obama Tuesday. Biden says he will call for both legislation and an executive order from the White House. The president will have a hard time getting legislative support from Senator Mark Begich.

Wax Buildup Causing Pipeline Problems

Dan Bross, KUAC – Fairbanks

Wax buildup caused by low oil throughput is continuing to cause problems for Trans Alaska Pipeline operators. The wax is at the heart of recent trouble with mechanical pigs used to clean the inside of the pipeline.

Alaska DEC Suing Operators Of Outdoor Wood-Powered Boilers In Fairbanks

Dan Bross, KUAC – Fairbanks

Pollution from two outdoor wood boilers in Fairbanks has resulted in the state filing suit against the operators. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation is suing Andrew and Gloria Straughn to halt operation of the boilers at rental properties they own. The suit cites 180 complaints to the state from 50 different people since 2008.

Tribal, Environmental Groups Hold Rally Supporting ‘Idle No More’ Movement

Joaqlin Estus, KNBA – Anchorage

Tribal and environmental organizations are holding a noon rally tomorrow in Anchorage to show support for Canadian tribes fighting legislation they call a direct attack on First Nations. The legislation reduces environmental assessment requirements, and cuts the number of waterways protected by the Navigable Waters Protection Act.

Former Marine Highway Head Asked To Resign By Department Commissioner

Ed Schoenfeld, CoastAlaska – Juneau

The deputy commissioner for marine operations at the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities says he was asked to resign by Pat Kemp, the newly-appointed department commissioner.

Michael Nuessl is retiring at the end of this week. He had previously said the decision was by mutual agreement. Southeast leaders were surprised by his resignation.

Journalist Delivers Town’s Support To Wounded Soldier

Robert Woolsey, KCAW – Sitka

Recently in Sitka, residents were invited to visit the library and sign a card of support for Joe Mille, a 2009 graduate of Sitka High, who lost his right leg in combat in Afghanistan, and who is now in a rehabilitation unit at Walter Reed Hospital in Maryland. The individual organizing the effort, however, is not in Mille’s family, or a member of his church. He’s the photojournalist who broke the story.

Alaska Dinosaur Exhibit Opens In Dallas Museum

Lori Townsend, APRN – Anchorage

An exhibit highlighting Alaska dinosaurs recently opened at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas. Anthony Fiorillo is the curator of earth sciences at the museum.

Copper Basin 300 Starts Saturday

Lorien Nettleton, KTNA – Talkeetna

The Copper Basin 300 sled dog race starts on Saturday in Glenallen. The race has a nearly full roster of Mushers eager for their first chance at competition in a season slowed by cold temperatures in the north and low snowfall in the south.

Mackey’s On His Way To Yet Another Comeback

Emily Schwing, KUAC – Fairbanks

An early season win for Four-time Yukon Quest and Iditarod Champion Lance Mackey has the Fairbanks musher in good spirits. Mackey says his kennel is once again living up to its name and making a ‘Comeback.’

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