THE REASON FOR THE SEASON— The Nome Homeschooler’s group gave a Nativity performance during the City’s Christmas Extravaganza. Photo by Angela Hansen

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VOLUME CXV NO. 51 December 24, 2015 NJUS budgets lights and power for spending year 2016 By Sandra L. Medearis This year’s plan shows the utility creases in the reserve to provide for in collecting accounts receivable The budget assumes fueling gen- The NJUS administration has pre- coming out with a $600,000 cash capital budget considerations.” would grow the cash surplus for cap- erators at the current average rate of sented its board of directors an oper- surplus at the end of 2015 compared The budget offers no rate reduc- ital budgeting, Handeland believed. $2.51 per gallon, both for cost of fuel ating and maintenance budget to 2014’s red ink in the shade of tions, but continued low fuel costs The FY 2016 plan comprises esti- and surcharge revenue. However, groomed for savings. Following two $130,000. may reduce the customer fuel sur- mated revenues of $13,116,250 and fuel costs are currently at a level not sessions of questions and answers, “This budget continues responsi- charge. operating and maintenance expenses seen in years, or ever, several board the board approved the 2016 spend- ble fiscal operations that will gener- Rates increased to approach ac- of $11,283,117, including provisions members observed, with the Oil ing plan on Dec. 21 and passed it on ate a reserve,” John K. Handeland, tual costs, refined planning, plus for depreciation in the amount of Price Information Service rack aver- to the Nome Common Council for manager, told the board. “After the being alert for savings in mainte- $501,500, which results in a net mar- age at less than $1.20 going into De- the final OK. first of the year we will target the in- nance and operations, plus diligence gin of $1,833,133. Net margin, non- cember, down more than two dollars cash amortizations and required from a year ago. overhaul, annual bond and debt serv- This week, the figure was around ice principle payments and fuel in- $1.10, Handeland noted. NJUS pays ventory detailed separately from approximately 35 cents per gallon operation and maintenance budget additional for delivery and other as- expenses leave the net cash surplus of $597,571. continued on page 4 Nome-Beltz Jr./Sr. High principal resigns By Diana Haecker cipal position after previous princi- On Monday, Nome Public pal Harlan Heinrich quit after only a Schools Superintendent Shawn year on the job, Sharpe served as As- Arnold announced that he accepted sistant Principal at Mountain Village the resignation of Nome-Beltz Jun- in Lower Yukon School District for ior/Senior High School Principal 2014-2015. Edwin “Chip” Sharpe effective Jan- Arnold told the Nome Nugget that uary 15, 2016. Sharpe gave his no- the search for a replacement is be- tice citing personal and medical ginning soon. The timing is not reasons for his departure. Arnold ideal, as it is hard to find a replace- said Sharpe is moving to Utah to ment for a principal in the middle of look after family matters. the school year. In the meantime, Assistant Princi- Asked about the recruiting pal Beth Sandefur will take on ad- process, Arnold wrote in an email ministrative duties with additional that he expects that the process will support provided by Jon Berkeley, be condensed to fill the position as Director of Federal Programs and In- soon as possible. “We will be ac- struction. cepting applications both internally Prior to moving to Nome this and externally through Alaska Photo by Nils Hahn summer to fill the Nome-Beltz prin- LOST— A young bearded seal accidentally wandered off the harbor into Nome until he was spotted on a park- continued on page 6 ing lot on Lomen Avenue. Marine Mammal Stranding Network responder Gay Sheffield responded and arranged the seal’s eventual return back to sea. Bearded seal takes wrong turn

By Diana Haecker seals during the 2011 federally de- NSEDC biologist Kevin Keith to ask A young bearded seal, apparently clared Unusual Mortality Event that for the use of a fish tote because a lost on his way to find open water, had hair loss in addition to open dog kennel would have been too took the wrong turn and ended up in- sores and poor body conditions, this small for the large animal. land at Crowley’s parking lot on young bearded seal was more typical But how does one get a 200- Lomen Avenue, on Thursday, De- of more recent years: he was fat, pound feisty seal, not eager to hang cember 17. alert, responsive, and with no skin out with humans, to crawl into a fish The seal had bald patches on his sores reports UAF Alaska Sea Grant tote? With the help of several on- back, top of the head and sides, con- and NOAA Marine Mammal Strand- lookers and the tote tilted to the side, sistent with one symptom of a seal ing Network responder Gay Sheffield coaxed the seal into its disease that is still a mystery to re- Sheffield. holding tank. Then they lifted the searchers and biologists. But unlike “He was a subadult male bearded tote into a truck and transported the seal, cosmetically rough-looking, but animal to the Nome Police Depart- he was physically healthy, plump, ment. “It was great of the Nome po- On the Web: feisty and responded normally,” said lice to provide a secure location www.nomenugget.net Sheffield. overnight for this seal – especially The immediate concern was that since it is an important subsistence E-mail: the seal was heading onto an active species,” Sheffield said. [email protected] street towards downtown Nome, When such events happen in the clearly out of his natural habitat. Bering Strait region, the National Sheffield is federally authorized Oceanographic and Atmospheric Photo courtesy of NBHS Yearbook Club to deal with unusual marine mammal Agency’s National Marine Fisheries PAST AND PRESENT CHAMP— Nome-Beltz senior Leif Erikson incidents. She had been notified by a Service, NMFS for short, and their won a state wresting title in 2013 in the 126-pound classification. member of the public around 5 p.m. co-management partners have a say Last weekend, he claimed his second crown by beating Alaska’s best on Thursday evening and responded 123A wrestlers in the 145-pound division at the 2015 ASAA Alaska immediately. Sheffield called continued on page 4 Wrestling State Championships at Bartlett High School. See story on pages 9 and 10. 2 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 OPINION THE NOME NUGGET A Look at the Past

Photo by Nikolai Ivanoff NAMED— The name “Foster” was recently added to the Richard Fos- ter Building still under construction at the end of Steadman St.

Letters to the editor must be signed and include an address and phone number. Thank you notes and political endorsements are considered ads. Editorial Zombie Apocalypse A TV movie and novel has it that the nation turns into zombies after being bitten while visiting Orlando, Florida, the home of Disney World. It seems that the entire Norton Sound Health Corporation is throwing caution to the wind and planning to take a trip to Disney World this spring. Wow! The full board, support staff and families are heading south to Florida. They are claiming the need to attend a national meet- ing with other boards that will attend. How nice. Don’t we wonder how much this caper will cost? Consider lodging, food and per diem. A pretty penny don’t you think? Where is the altruism? Where is the spirit of looking out for the ben- efit of the less fortunate? Where is the spirit of doing what is right for the good of those in our care? Could some of that money be used for folks with children dealing with cancer to have some financial assis- tance? Could the money be given to employees who have not had a decent raise in salary? What about giving the money and travel vouch- ers to employees as a reward for dedicated service? Perhaps it would not be such an egregious assault on our sense of financial justice if we had a much smaller board. Realistically, the NSHC board is too big and unwieldy. Most of those on the board get lifetime trips to Nome for Photo courtesy of Carrie M.McLain Memorial Museum MAGNIFICENT GARB— Photographer F.H. Nowell capture a photo this woman in her magnificent parkie the juicy per diem for shopping. in the early 1900’s in Nome. One can’t help but laugh at the possibility of the Zombie Apoca- lypse. If they get bitten while there will they infect us upon their re- turn? If they are already zombies when they leave Nome will it reverse the Zombie effect? Perhaps in the spirit of Christmas giving the board Weather Statistics will see fit to spend the zombie funds on the relief of real medical needs in the Norton Sound area. It would be an appropriate gesture High Temp (12/14-21/15 ) +31F 12/15/15 Sunrise 12/24/15 12:04 p.m. Low Temp -2F 12/17/15 National Weather to help those in need and be in line with the true mission of a hospital 12/30/15 12:02 p.m. Peak Wind 43 mph, E 12/14/15 Service board. —N.L.M.— 2015 - Total Precip. (through 12/14) 16.38” Nome, Alaska Sunset 12/24/15 3:59 p.m. Normal Total to Date, 2015 16.46” (907) 443-2321 12/30/15 4:07 p.m. Seasonal Snowfall 22.30” Normal 27.00” 1-800-472-0391 Snow on the Ground 12.00” Illegitimus non carborundum

Nome Norton Sound Tide Predictions (High & Low Waters) High High Low Low Member of: Alaska Newspaper Association, Date Day Time Tide Time Tide Time Tide Time Tide National Newspaper Association 12/24 Th 2:38a +1.5 4:31p +1.3 9:41a 0.0 9:26p +0.7 P.O. Box 610 - Nome Alaska, 99762 25 Fr 3:29a +1.4 5:33p +1.3 10:36a -0.1 10:23p +0.8 (907) 443-5235 fax (907) 443-5112 26 Sa 4:22a +1.4 6:28p +1.3 11:28a -0.1 11:19p +0.8 e-mail: [email protected] 27 Su 5:16a +1.4 7:16p +1.3 12:17p -0.1 ads: [email protected] 28 Mo 6:11a +1.4 8:00p +1.3 12:15a +0.8 1:04p -0.1 29 Tu 7:06a +1.3 8:41p +1.3 1:10a +0.7 1:48p 0.0 classified and legal ads: [email protected] 30 We 8:01a +1.3 9:21p +1.3 2:04a +0.7 2:32p +0.1 subscriptions: [email protected] Daily variations in sea level due to local meteorological conditions cannot be predicted and may significantly effect Nancy McGuire editor and publisher the observed tides in this area. All times are listed in Local Standard Time. All heights are in feet referenced to [email protected] Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW). Diana Haecker staff reporter [email protected] Nils Hahn advertising manager [email protected] Keith Conger sports/photography [email protected] Maisie Thomas intern [email protected] Kristine McRae education reporter Laurie McNicholas reporter at large Peggy Fagerstrom photography For photo copies: [email protected] Nikolai Ivanoff photography Gloria Karmun production Get all of your local, regional and statewide news from us. SEND photos to [email protected] Advertising rates: Business classified, 50¢ per word; $1.50/line legal; display ads $24 per column inch P.O. Box 610 • Nome, Alaska 99762 • (907)443-5235 Published weekly except the last week of the year Return postage guaranteed Name: ISSN 0745-9106 There’s no place like Nome Address: Single copy price 50¢ in Nome USPS 598-100 City: State: Zip: The home-owned newspaper Postmaster: Send change of address to: ___Check ___Money Order ___Credit Card The Nome Nugget P.O. Box 610 Nome, Alaska 99762 Visa/MasterCard ______Exp. Date:_ _/_ _ Periodical postage paid in Nome, Alaska 99762 Published daily except for Monday, $75 out of state $65 in state Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday One year subscription. Please enclose payment with form. Not published the last week of December THE NOME NUGGET regional THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 3 Senate approves Point Spencer land transfer to BSNC

By Diana Haecker conveyance of approximately 2,500 gion to support their statutory mis- Media and External Affairs said fur- development in the Beaufort and Last week, the Senate approved acres of federal lands to local, state sion and duties, while the partnership ther steps depend on when the bill Chukchi would be critical to any the Point Spencer Land Conveyance and federal stakeholders. Senator would be conveyed lands to establish goes to final passage and how fast major undertaking at Port Clarence. Act that would convey lands to the Dan Sullivan (R-AK), a co-sponsor a U.S. Arctic deep draft port. the Bureau of Land Management Shipping transits through the Bering regional Bering Straits Native Cor- of the legislation and a member of The legislation still needs to pass would conduct the conveyance. Strait would not be a major factor be- poration while the U.S. Coast Guard the Senate Commerce Committee, the House of Representatives due to “Once conveyed, BSNC will begin cause the majority of vessels have would keep the existing infrastruc- supported inclusion of the bill in the Point Spencer-unrelated changes planning in earnest, but we have enough fuel capacity to make the ture and land at the barrier island Coast Guard Authorization Act, H.R. made in the bill. Bering Straits Na- been careful not to commit to any- Northern Sea Route trips without re- separating Port Clarence from the 4188, which passed the Senate Fri- tive Corporation had conducted an thing until the transfer occurs,” Gan- fueling and it is possible that vessel Bering Sea, near Teller and Brevig day by unanimous consent. economic analysis, which examined ley wrote in an email to the Nome routing may not be in American wa- Mission. The Point Spencer Land Con- the feasibility of developing infra- Nugget. ters. Also, with the recent news that Senator Lisa Murkowski intro- veyance Act aims to establish a pub- structure at Point Spencer to support Since BSNC first began pursuing Shell and several other oil and gas duced the bicameral legislation with lic-private partnership between shipping or offshore oil and gas de- the land transfer in 2010, the com- companies delayed their plans to drill Congressman Don Young (R-AK) in Bering Straits Native Corporation velopment. In order to go forward pany contracted a geomorphologist in the Arctic, the economic feasibil- May, to streamline future infrastruc- and the State of Alaska. Among with any plans, Congress had to sign to evaluate the long-term stability of ity to develop Point Spencer is ques- ture development and potential uses stakeholders, the U.S. Coast Guard off on the land conveyance. Matt Point Spencer, developed initial de- tionable. of Point Spencer, by calling for the would retain its footprint in the re- Ganley, BSNC Vice President of sign and build-out scenarios for de- “The withdrawal of Shell from the velopment and had been in Beaufort has changed the economic discussions with industry regarding picture for much of Alaska including their needs and possible uses of Port infrastructure development along the Clarence. The conclusion of the eco- Arctic coast,” noted Ganley. nomic analysis was that oil and gas COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Thursday, December 24

Here he comes!

*Open Gym Nome Rec Center 5:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. *NCC Parent and Child Play Group Boys and Girls Club Closed until Jan. 7 *Lunch Lap Swim Nome Swimming Pool Closed for Holiday *Weekly Women’s Circle Prematernal Home 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. *Nome Food Bank Bering and Seppala 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. *Open Bowling Nome Rec Center Closed for Holiday *Thrift Shop Methodist Church 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Friday, December 25 Merry Christmas

*Open Gym Nome Rec Center Closed for Holiday *AM Lap Swim Nome Swimming Pool Closed for Holiday *AA Meeting Lutheran Church(rear) 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday, December 26 *Open Gym Nome Rec Center noon - 8:00 p.m. *Yoga Nome Rec Center 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. *Bowling Nome Rec Center 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. *AA Meeting Airport Pizza (upstairs) 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sunday, December 27 Nugget file photo *Open Gym Nome Rec Center 2:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. *Open Swim Nome Swimming Pool 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. POINT SPENCER— A land transfer bill to transfer 2,500 acres of land at Point Spencer to the state and BSNC *Family Swim Nome Swimming Pool 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. cleared the Senate last week. Pictured are the Coast Guard assets and the runway at Point Spencer. *PM Lap Swim Nome Swimming Pool 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Monday, December 28 *Open Gym Nome Rec Center 5:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Breakfast menu items, *Kindergym Nome Rec Center 10:00 a.m. - noon Located on east Front *Open Gym Nome Rec Center noon - 10:00 p.m. but not limited to: *PM Lap Swim Nome Swimming Pool 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Street across from *Zumba Fitness Nome Rec Center 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. *Open Swim Nome Swimming Pool 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. •English Muffins National Guard Armory *Yoga Nome Rec Center 6:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. •Cinnamon Rolls *AA Meeting Lutheran Church(rear) 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. •Hashbrowns Take Out Tuesday, December 29 Breakfast is served 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. Orders *Open Gym Nome Rec Center 5:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. *Library Story Hour (ages 3-7) Kegoayah Kozga Library 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. *Lunch Lap Swim Nome Swimming Pool 11:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. weekdays & weekends 443-8100 *Strength Training Nome Rec Center 4:15 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. *Nome Food Bank Bering & Sepala 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. *Yoga Nome Rec Center 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Monday - Saturday: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. / Sunday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. *AA Meeting Airport Pizza (upstairs) 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. *Nome Alumni Tournament Nome-Beltz Gym Evening, Times TBA Subway Daily Specials Wednesday, December 30 Monday — Turkey/Ham Thursday — B.M.T. Sunday — Roasted *Open Gym Nome Rec Center 5:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. *AM Lap Swim Nome Swimming Pool 6:00 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. Tuesday — Meatball Friday — Tuna Chicken Breast *Kindergym Nome Rec Center 10:00 a.m. - noon *Crazy Draft Day (ages 8 - 12) Kegoayah Kozga Library 10:00 a.m. - noon Wednesday — Turkey Saturday — Roast Beef Six-Inch Meal Deal $8.50 *Open Gym Nome Rec Center noon - 10:00 p.m. *PM Lap Swim Nome Swimming Pool 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. *Zumba Fitness Nome Rec Center 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. *Family Swim Nome Swimming Pool 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. GOLD COAST CINEMA *Yoga Nome Rec Center 6:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. *Nome Alumni Tournament Nome-Beltz Gym Evening, Times TBA 443-8100 Starting Friday, December 25 Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum Reopening in the new Richard Foster Building, Call 907-443-6630 Star Wars Kegoayah Kozga Library: noon - 8 p.m. (M-Th) • noon - 6 p.m. (F-Sat) Rated PG -13 7:00 p.m. Nome Visitors Center: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (M-F) Bering Land Bridge Visitor Center: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (M-F) Star Wars XYZ Center: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (M-F) Rated PG-13 9:30 p.m. A gallon of milk, or the whole cow. Saturday & Sunday Matinee P^o^`hmma^khhf' 800.727.2141 / www.nac.aero / Star Wars 1:30 p.m. Star Wars :Delivered 4:00 p.m. Listen to ICY 100.3 FM, Coffee Crew, 7 - 9 a.m., and find out how you can win free movie tickets! 4 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 LOCAL THE NOME NUGGET • Bearded seal continued from page 1 Committee, consisting of 10 Alaska able to help with communications good area off West Beach where he the animal became cut off from open Native committee members from between official responders and would have access to open water. water and just marched in the wrong in how seals are handled and there Bristol Bay to the North Slope Bor- members of the public who helped Ahmasuk deduced from the ice con- direction. During the seal’s release, were several possible outcomes of ough, is the Alaska Native co-man- capture the seal. ditions that the seal probably came in continued on page 5 the seal’s fate. He could’ve been agement partner with NMFS On Saturday, Ice Seal Committee from the port. As sea ice closed in, taken for subsistence; he could’ve regarding ice-associated seals. member Ahmasuk, Sheffield and been hauled off to the Seward Sea Sheffield immediately notified the NMFS made the decision to release Life Center for research; or he could Ice Seal Committee’s Bering Strait the seal since it was in good physical be released back to the sea. representative Brandon Ahmasuk condition aside having a patchy fur NMFS is the federal agency au- and then hit the phone to notify the coat. Together with other Native sub- thorized to manage and conduct re- NMFS Office of Protective Re- sistence hunters, they transferred the search on ice-associated seals, sources. Alaska State Troopers were seal to a toboggan sled and found a including bearded seals. The Ice Seal

Photo courtesy Gay Sheffield HAPPY ENDING— The young bearded seal was set free on the sea ice near West Beach. • NJUS continued from page 1 In 2014, a deficit year for Nome with a fee. Till now, NJUS has ab- Photo by Nils Hahn Joint Utility System that helped send sorbed the credit card fee. Handeland HELPERS— With the seal safe in the fish tote, NSEDC’s Kevin Keith, sociated expenses. at the utility into financial crisis, that projects a reduction in costs from left, and Gay Sheffield, middle, prepare for the transport of the animal, “If the low price holds, we’ll be necessitated a loan from the City, a close to $50,000 this year to $5,000 while Miriam Huntsinger and Lizzy Hahn take in the sight of a baby able to adjust the fuel surcharge,” he large reduction in community power under the new plan. The system was bearded seal. said, adding that the $2.50 oil inven- demand occurred. NJUS adjusted the to convert on Jan. 1, but conversions tory averaged with the low-priced oil 2015 plan mid-year to meet calendar are taking longer than anticipated. would come roughly to around $1.90 year projections with only minor Meanwhile, until the transition is to $2.10 per gallon when the new variations, according to figures. complete, “if someone wants to give supply came with the summer barge High energy costs keep energy ef- us money via credit card, we are season. ficiency on ratepayers’ minds, but going to accept it,” Handeland said. The board and utility management “we are not aware of any significant Looking into the future, Hande- reviewed fiscal year 2015 and prior changes planned by the customer land advocated to the board that year operation and maintenance ac- base, and project 2016 consumption NJUS put more emphasis on long- tivities in tailoring the projected and sales to stay the same,” Hande- range planning, including anticipated spending. The utility has been re- land told the board in his draft budget retirements and changes in personnel viewing expenses in preparation for review. Handeland noted that the over the next few years, with suffi- continued fine tuning, from person- opening of the Richard Foster Build- cient training and practices and pro- #1 NOME GOLD BUYER nel scheduling, installing energy- ing and the reopening of the Nome cedures committed to writing. saving LED lighting to replace State Office Building after renova- Whereas the utility has concentrated “energy hog” lights at the power tion would positively affect revenue currently on reducing costs and plant, turning on wind turbines to de- in the 2016 spending plan. streamlining operations, NJUS needs We pay on both Gold and Silve er crease fuel going into generators and Earlier this year, a rate schedule to look longer into the future to en- deferring upgrades to the computer- change removed a tiered system for sure continued uninterrupted flow of ized generator control system to as- kilowatt charges and increased the services and improve and protect Alaska’s only local refiner and gold buyer sign the resources to overhaul one of base fee. Water and sewer rates in- long-term robust financial health, he Providing continuous service to the utility’s 5.2-megawatt rated Wart- creased in August. said. sila generators. The operator raised commercial Handeland underlined the impor- Nome miners for over 35 years A mid-year review resulted in a garbage rates in November through tance of meeting the operating budget amendment to reflect changes tariffs approved by the state Regula- budget, then with discussion and to the initial 2015 plan in both rev- tory Commission. A billing agree- study determining capital needs in- enues and expenses, Handeland said. ment with the contractor yields 12 cluding “looming equipment and Call to sell Gold NJUS has reviewed monthly the ef- percent of their billed revenue to overhaul requirements in years fects of adjustments on the annual NJUS, meaning the utility will see ahead.” (()907) 304-1699 budget. additional income based on the rate Board members Dave Barron, The board spends a large part of changes. Carl Emmons, Pat Knodel and Fred monthly meetings going over written Effective in 2016, NJUS will ac- Moody attended the Dec. 21 meet- 400 W 1st.(Behind Polaris) Nome, AK reports from Handeland and going cept E-checks to pay customer bills ing. on record with formal approval. without charge or accept credit cards www.oxfordmetals.com

NOME OUTFITTERS Floral Shop YOUR complete hunting & fishing store 122 West 1st Avenue (left-hand side of Nome Outfitters) (907) 443-2880or PH: 907.443.6800 1-800-680-(6663)NOME Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm CLOSED on Saturday and Sunday COD, credit card & special orders welcome

Mon. - Fri. • 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 120 West First Avenue

$50 off All Ruger 30-06 rifles in Stock! $25 off All Ruger 22LR rifles in Stock! Tanning Many models to choose from. 120 W. 1st Ave. Give us a call or stop by Nome Outfitters! Monday-Friday: 1 p.m.-7 p.m. & Saturday: 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. We deliver Free to the airport and will send freight collect same day as your order. Please call 443-6768 for appointment. Walk-ins welcome! THE NOME NUGGET LOcAL THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 5 Port of Nome and City seek deep-draft design funds

By Sandra L. Medearis would take Nome’s 2,700-foot exist- The Nome Port Commission is ing harbor causeway, built in the thumbing the drum to keep state and mid-1980’s, an additional 2,100 feet federal attention on the Nome Deep farther into Norton Sound to better Draft Port project with a 30-page serve increasing numbers of deeper Port of Nome Strategic Development draft vessels coming to arctic waters. Plan. Additional work would include The port panel and port and city removing an existing spur that turns administrators have been holding southwest at the end of the breakwa- teleconferences and face-to-face ses- ter and dredging the entrance chan- sions with Gov. Bill Walker’s staff, nel to a depth of minus 28 feet Mean legislators and the federal Congres- Lower Low Water. The draft plan in- sional delegation to underline the im- cludes a 450-foot long dock to go on portance of continuing with design the harbor side of the causeway ex- efforts to ensure the project does not tension to provide moorage to ves- go on the shelf for an indeterminate sels requiring depths of minus 28 period. feet. Nome Mayor Richard Beneville A larger deep-water port at Nome has written to Governor Walker ask- would answer a needed marine infra- ing him to foster an appropriation. structure to meet safety and supply A number of appointments have issues coming from increased ship- been set with officials in Washington ping traffic in northern waters, advo- D. C. for a group making the trip cates say. next month. The delegation will However, the NPC is strongly comprise Mayor Richard Beneville, pushing a design that would take the City of Nome’s lobbyist Larry causeway out to minus 36 feet Markley, Port Commissioner Megan MLLW, because minus 28 feet Alvanna-Stimpfle and Port Director MLLW would not admit icebreakers Joy Baker. Baker said teleconfer- and a larger class of ships seeking a ences were occurring weekly. true deep-draft facility. The NPC has commissioned the “We have to be minus 36 feet or McDowell Group, a research and we are not an international port,” consultant firm, to put down on Commissioner Rolland Trowbridge paper a concise representation of said. “Nome needs to be the western background, rationale and details United States port.” backing up a federal-state study’s Alvanna-Stimpfle advised that the focus on Nome as a strategic location port delegation make sure that folks for a deep-draft port improvement in Washington D.C. knew that Pres. plan. The 30-page document serves Barack Obama spoke favorably of to inform interests of local and re- the deep-draft port when he visited gional economic growth, national Alaska earlier this year. sovereignty, security of environment The City of Nome has put the and Search and Rescue response for deep-draft port design work funding marine commerce emergencies in the at the top of their lists of federal Con- Arctic. gressional and state Legislature pri- The tentative selection of Nome orities. and further advancement of a study In other business the port com- poised to go before Congress for ap- mission: Nugget file photo proval and funding stalled last month • Declared support for a state per- PORT OF NOME— City officials are continuing to seek funding for the Nome port expansion to accommo- when the U.S. Army Corps of Engi- mit application filed by Quintillion date larger vessels transiting through the Bering Strait. It is expected that vessel traffic will increase in num- neers put port progress on hold after Subsea Operations seeking to install bers as the Arctic sea ice forms later and melts earlier due to climate change. A joint study conducted by the Royal Dutch Shell pulled out of oil a fiber optic cable within the seabed Army Corps of Engineers and the Alaska Dept. of Transportation has identified Nome as a prime candidate exploration plans focusing on the and at locations within the commu- for a deep-draft port expansion. Chukchi Sea. nities of Oliktok, Barrow, Wain- ternet to these six Alaska communi- from late April to mid-November in land residents that some sort of traf- “We must not let corporate deci- wright, Point Hope, Kotzebue and ties. “Fiber optics cannot come soon 2015, a period during which the fic control would be in order. In late sions dictate Alaska’s future,” Nome. The work would link the new enough,” Alvanna-Stimpfle said. agency listed 452 vessels going 2014 the U.S. Coast Guard published Beneville wrote in his letter. fiber optic line with an existing • Received a report from the through the strait. an official notification concerning its The proposed deep-draft arctic North Slope Terrestrial-based fiber Alaska Marine Exchange tracking The report noted a concern from ongoing Port Access Route Study. port’s navigational improvement optic line to provide high speed In- shipping through the Bering Strait Little Diomede and St. Lawrence Is- • Bearded seal coontinued from page 4 seal that ever strayed into Nome dur- ing December. A year ago, on Dec. the hunters sought out a safe spot on 6, 2014, a young spotted seal headed the sea ice that looked to have a into town via the small boat harbor crack in it. They loaded the seal from and was caught traveling east on the tote into a sled, which was then River Street. Sheffield managed to towed by a snowmachine and to put the animal in a body bag and where it was still safe. “The seal just slide him back to Middle Beach, crawled out of the sled and wanted where it was released to a small area no part of us,” Ahmasuk said. The of open water in the nearshore sea animal stayed there for a while and ice. then headed off. In the event of an unusual marine When Sheffield checked back the mammal sighting or stranding in the next day, strong northeast winds had Bering Strait region, call the follow- broken off the ice where hunters had ing Nome responders: observed the crack in the ice the pre- Gay Sheffield, UAF Alaska Sea vious day, and thus provided the seal Grant: office 907-443-2397; cell with his way out and back home. She 907-434-1149; toll free 855-443- also observed four other seals in the 2397. area. Pleased with the outcome for Brandon Ahmasuk, Kawerak Sub- this young and inexperienced sistence Director: 907-443-6245; bearded seal and his foray into Vera Metcalf, Eskimo Walrus Com- Nome, Sheffield said, “All he needed mission: 907-443-4380. was just a helping hand. A good end- Or the NMFS Marine Mammal ing for Nome’s unexpected visitor.” Stranding Network hotline (Juneau): This bearded seal was not the only 1-877-925-7773.

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to your family 1-800-866-8394 www.flyravn.com from Senator Donny Olson, Willow, Martin, Junior, Maggie, Solomon, and Grandma Maggie. For news anytime, find us online at www.nomenugget.net Please call 1-800-597-3707 with any questions or concerns in 2016! 6 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 REGIONAL THE NOME NUGGET

Photos by Diana Haecker REVITALIZED— The Nome St. Lawrence Island Dance Group once again meets regularly for dance practice and performs at local and regional functions. Pictured here is the group performing at the Katiluta festivities in Nome in November. Nomeites revitalize the Nome St. Lawrence Island Dance Group

By Maisie Thomas to our ancestors as we learn the his- The Nome-St. Lawrence Island tory of the songs,” Tobuk explained. Dance Group is back in full force Tobuk said that the group tries to after a 25-year hiatus. The group is be active in the community and per- comprised of dancers with Siberian forms at as many events and loca- Yupik ancestors from Gambell and tions as possible. Over the past two Savoonga. The dance group was very years, the group has danced at the active up until the early 1990s. After Anvil Mountain Correctional Center a key dancer and group member Christmas party, the Youth Facility, passed away, they met very infre- the Methodist Church, the Pre-school quently, performing only a few times and the Nome Elementary School. during parades. “We’ve gone to pretty much every Last year, Crystal Tobuk and big event,” Tobuk said. Phyllis Walluk worked to reunite the group. In 2014, they held their first meeting and have been getting the group together to practice at least once a week ever since. Tobuk, who serves as president, DANCERS— Ginna Piscoya, Ellen Baize, Phyllis Walluk, Debra Aningayou, Crystal Tobuk and Peggy Outwater. said that the Nome-St. Lawrence dance group has over 60 members. Relatives visiting from Gambell and Wishing Northwest Alaska a Merry Christmas Savoonga are always welcome at practices as well. and a Performers of all ages do dances that originated on St. Lawrence Is- land. “It’s really important to con- Happy New Year. tinue to dance because it’s how we DANCING HANDS— Crystal spend time with our family and pass Tobuk performs with the Nome- on traditions. It keeps us connected SLI Dance Group.

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Photo courtesy of NPS NBHS PRINCIPAL— Citing family health reasons, NBHS principal Chip Sharpe submitted his resignation last week. • NBHS principal continued from page 1 ship; references citing successful teaching experience; the ability to Teacher Placement and our HR Of- supervise instruction, maintain a safe fice,” Arnold wrote. There will be a school environment and possession small hiring committee made up of of dynamic communication skills. various stakeholders to interview any The school district prefers candidates potential candidates. with strong skills in culturally rele- Qualifications required include an vant education, the use of student Left to right: Kallie King, Jake Slingsby, John Smith, Jayton Grubb, Marybel Mendez, Thaddeus Payenna. Alaska Type B Administrator Cer- performance data to inform and di- Not pictured: Jessica Simonsen. tificate; three years of successful rect instruction, experiences with Nome high school administration; refer- district strategic planning and lead- • 109A Front St • Nome, AK 99762 • 907-443-2223 ences citing proven school leader- ership, among other things. © 2008 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (119783_11699) wellsfargo.com THE NOME NUGGET regional THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 7 Shishmaref student attends UN Climate Summit in Paris

By Maisie Thomas rier island in the Chukchi Sea and more than a loss of place, it is a loss with the simplest of actions. Sinnok the state: to reduce carbon emissions It’s a long way to Paris, France home to the community of Shish- of identity,” Sinnok wrote. Sinnok said that to reduce his carbon foot- by 30 percent by 2030, or 30 by 30 from Shishmaref, Alaska . It’s 4,457 maref, is about three miles long and remains hopeful, however, that al- print in every day life, he tries to as Sinnok calls it. Along with lobby- miles to be exact. But the discussions a quarter mile wide. In the past 35 though it is too late to save the place, walk everywhere, and turns off the ing government leaders, Youth Or- held in France in mid-December years, Sinnok said it has lost about Shishmaref residents will be able to lights and television as soon as he ganizers work with their were perhaps more important to the 3,000 feet of land. preserve their traditions and culture. leaves the room. He tries to raise communities to help to meet the Arctic regions than to any other place In a blog post on the U.S. Depart- This hope is what led Sinnok to awareness for the solutions to cli- goal. in the world. For this reason, it was ment of the Interior website entitled Paris; he is willing to do what it takes mate change in his home village as Representatives from 195 coun- crucial to have someone from ground “My World Interrupted,” Sinnok to save his culture. well. tries attended the COP21 summit, in- zero of climate change attend the wrote about his eroding home island, Sinnok, who will attend college at Sinnok is a member of the Sierra cluding several Alaskans. COP21 Paris summit. and the other problems climate the University of Alaska Fairbanks Student Coalition, or SSC, a group of ended in an agreement to reduce Esau Sinnok of Shishmaref real- change has caused Shishmaref resi- starting in January, said that his in- high school and college students who greenhouse gas emissions in every ized this and attended the Global Cli- dents. He also spoke about unusual terest in climate change activism work to protect the environment. country. The Paris agreement differs mate Summit in Paris last week. weather patterns, and their effect on started relatively recently. When he Through the SSC, Sinnok traveled to from other such documents because Sinnok, an 18- year-old Bering Strait the subsistence lifestyle. “If we can’t learned about the Paris summit, Sin- Washington, D.C., where the group it is the first to require action from School District student, served as a hunt and fish to feed ourselves in the nok knew he wanted to go. “I wanted lobbied Senators and Representa- both rich and poor countries. In the youth ambassador for the Sierra Club winter, we will starve.” to get my voice heard,” he said “My tives about a variety of climate past, countries such as the U.S. at the 21st United Nations Confer- In his 18 years, Sinnok has al- reason for attending the 21st Confer- change related issues. agreed to reduce green house gas ence of Parties, abbreviated as ready noticed changes in his warm- ence of Parties in Paris—COP21—is Sinnok also serves as an Arctic emissions, but developing countries COP21. ing village. The berries start to bloom to tell leaders that climate change is Youth Ambassador. This program were not required to. Sinnok said the Paris summit was earlier, in mid-May, and the season is affecting the Arctic more than other provides young Alaskans with the Though the agreement is not a so- a “great experience,” even though he over by July, a month earlier than it places in the world, and if the ice in opportunity to travel to and voice lution to climate change, it is a start. did not have permission to attend any used to be. Winters have seen rain, Greenland melts, these villages and their opinions in Arctic Council In his December 12 speech, Presi- meetings. Sinnok did, however, get which has caused the snow to freeze, islands will be under water. I hope meetings. Recently, he has con- dent Obama said that the world has to meet U.S. Secretary of the Interior making it harder for animals to get that world leaders will hear my mes- vinced one of his cousins to become reached a “turning point” in the cli- Sally Jewell. He said he spent most food. “We saw a lot of skinny cari- sage and rise to the challenge be- involved with the Arctic Youth Am- mate crisis. Obama praised the of his three weeks being interviewed bou this year,” Sinnok said. cause it is not just a political issue to bassador program. United States for setting the prece- by leading publications such as CNN Sinnok also acknowledges that the me. It’s my future,” he wrote on the Along with being an Arctic Youth dent in the fight against greenhouse and National Geographic, which en- future of Sarichef Island is bleak. In blog. Ambassador and an SSC member, gas emissions, but stressed that it abled the high school senior to raise about 20 years, the village will be Sinnok was pleased with the out- Sinnok is a Youth Organizer for the must be a joint effort, which is what awareness about the Arctic’s prob- completely washed away, and with it come of COP21, saying that it is a Alaska Center For the Environment’s the agreement hopes to achieve. lems. will go a sense of tradition. “It really small step that will pay off. “Even Alaska Youth for Environmental Ac- “[The document] established an en- Living in Shishmaref, Sinnok and hurts knowing that your only home though it’s probably too late to save tion Program. About 25 Alaskan stu- during framework the world needs to his family partake in subsistence ac- is going to be gone, and you want to Shishmaref,” Sinnok said, “it’s not dents gathered in Anchorage last solve the climate crisis,” he said. tivities such as hunting, fishing and carry on traditions the way that your too late to save other villages.” October for the Youth Organizer berry picking. Sarichef Island, a bar- people have done for centuries. It is And it is a small step that can start Summit. There, they set a goal for Fairbanks Four released after 18 years in prison

By Maisie Thomas formation was not available to the Judge Lyle, which could take up to innocence. the agreement, “I hope this settle- Christmas is sometimes referred original juries. In 2013, AKIP filed a six months, or for Governor Walker The Fairbanks Four agreed not to ment helps to begin the healing to as the time of miracles, and that is post-conviction relief action claim- to pardon the men. sue either the State of Alaska or the process [and] provides some meas- certainly what it must feel like for the ing the men were innocent and ask- On December 17, Judge Lyle met City of Fairbanks over the investiga- ure of justice and closure for Eugene, Fairbanks Four. George Frese, Kevin ing for a declaration of freedom and with retired Superior Court Judge tion and to withdraw their claim of Kevin, George and Marvin,” Walker Pease and Eugene Vent were freed innocence. Niesje Steinkruger, who presided prosecutorial misconduct. The state wrote in his official Twitter feed. The after Fairbanks Superior Court Judge In September 2015, Governor over one of the 1999 trials. agreed not to retry the case again, un- four men walked out of the court- Paul Lyle vacated their convictions. Walker’s office contacted a law firm Steinkruger and Lyle decided to ac- less substantial new evidence of guilt room and were met with drumming, The fourth man, Martin Roberts, was to review the case records and make cept the settlement. The agreement surfaces. dancing and applause of over 100 released from prison in June 2015, a recommendation on whether to re- included a stipulation that the men By vacating the convictions, supporters. but is on parole until 2030. The three open the case or not. This resulted in agreed with the original jury convic- Judge Lyle overturned the 1999-jury Alaska Native men and one Ameri- a five-week evidentiary hearing that tions, but that the new evidence, the decisions. can Indian have been incarcerated for was held in Fairbanks beginning on affidavit from Holmes, undermined Governor Walker was pleased over 18 years. October 5. AKIP and the men’s the jury verdict and supported their with Judge Lyle’s decision to accept In 1999, three separate juries lawyers from the law firm of Dorsey found the men, teenagers at the time, and Whitney maintained that the guilty of the 1997 murder of 15-year- original investigation and hearings old John Hartman. were rushed, that the arrests were Roberts and Pease were tried to- racially motivated and had were not gether, Vent and Frese separately. supported by the evidence. The men were sentenced to terms The hearings coincided with the ranging between 33 and 77 years. Alaska Federation of Natives Con- About ten years after the guilty ver- ference in Anchorage, where the dicts, the four men began working newly-freed Roberts spoke in sup- with the Alaska Innocence Project, or port of the men’s innocence and the AKIP, to complete another investi- post-conviction relief. Attendees gation of the murder and if warranted pressured Governor Walker to utilize to pursue a request for post-convic- his power to pardon the men, an ac- tion relief. tion that has not been used in Alaska A key piece of evidence, obtained for almost 10 years. as part of the new investigation and Approximately a month after the presented by the defense attorneys, Fairbanks hearing, a settlement be- was a written affidavit from William tween the defendants’ lawyers and Holmes, now incarcerated for mur- the State of Alaska was reached. The der in California. He stated that he state withdrew all charges against the and some of his friends committed four men. Without such an agree- the October 1997 killing of Hartman, ment the next step in the process was not the four men convicted. This in- to either wait for a decision from

HolidayMerry C hGreetingsristmas MayHave youa Safe and and yoursJoyous have peace,Holiday love, Season and joy during this FromHoliday Season. Nome Eskimo Community &From Staff Nome Eskimo Community and2012-2013 Staff. 8 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015REgional THE NOME NUGGET Village Safe Water Program enters third phase By Maisie Thomas and sewer service. Sanitation is chal- Griffith reported that the first two to the DEC and the Steering Com- wastewater holding tanks located in a The Alaska Department of Envi- lenging without clean water for phases were successful. “We are en- mittee in the fall of 2017. chamber attached to the house. This ronmental Conservation Village Safe household chores or even hand couraged by what we have seen so The three finalists are DOWL way, the system will take up less Water Program announced on De- washing. Unsanitary conditions, in- far,” he stated. The challenge gener- Alaska, an engineering firm; Summit space in the house, and will not re- cember 8 that the Alaska Water and cluding the use of honey buckets, ated a lot of interest after requesting Consulting and the University of quire a heat trace to connect an in- Sewer Challenge has entered its third cause a high rate of respiratory and that participants form teams. In Alaska Anchorage. Although the door tank to an outdoor tank. Trace stage. Bill Griffith, DEC facility pro- skin infections. Invasive pneumo- Phase Two, “all six teams delivered DEC and the EPA will fund part of heating is used to heat pipes by using grams manager said in a press re- coccal disease (IPD) is a bacterial in- strong written proposals to develop Phase Three, they encourage teams an electrical heating element, and lease, “We are eager to begin the next fection that can cause ear and blood systems that would meet or exceed to supplement their support with can be expensive. Summit Consult- phase of this important project. Our infections as well as meningitis and most of the performance targets,” their own money. A total of $3 mil- ing brings to the table a raw water goal is to bring running water and pneumonia. In 2010, a study found Griffith wrote in an email to the lion is available for Phase Three. The treatment method. Water will be sewer to every home.” that Alaskan children without access Nome Nugget. EPA provided 25 percent of the fund- treated using a two-stage cartridge The purpose of the project, which to running water had higher rates of The third phase will include the ing and the State of Alaska con- filtration process and ultraviolet dis- began in 2013, is to develop small- the disease. Southwest Alaska has construction and testing of the proto- tributed the remaining 75 percent. infection. This approach can be used scale water systems that are both cost one of the highest rates of IPD in the type systems developed by three of The three competitors will be to treat a wide range of water quali- effective and innovative. Its goal is world. the six teams in Phase Two. Ulti- evaluated using several targets. “Pro- ties. to reduce the cost of operating run- Phase One of the Water and Sewer mately, the most efficient and cost ef- posed systems should be capable of UAA’s proposal will reuse gray ning water and sewer systems in Challenge was a $1 million interna- fective system will be chosen by a providing a minimum of 15 gallons water (household wastewater) as homes in rural Alaska. “[The project] tional effort aimed at producing Steering Committee. The Committee of useable water per person per day, well as some black water (toilet and is designed to leverage public fund- teams of engineers, social scientists, is comprised of employees from the comprised of water for drinking and laundry water). ing with resources from the private innovators and people familiar with Environmental Protection Agency, cooking, washing and flushing,” the Phase Four, expected to start in sector and academia to produce in- rural Alaska. Teams submitted a Dept. of Agriculture’s Rural Devel- DEC press release reads. The DEC 2018, will be two years of system de- novative, cost-effective water and Statement of Qualifications, and the opment Program, the U.S. Indian acknowledges that the top system velopment and testing. sewer technologies that can be con- top team six teams were chosen to Health Service, the U.S. Arctic Re- may not meet some targets and may The final phase, Technology Re- structed and operated in an Arctic cli- continue on to Phase Two. During search Commission and the Tanana surpass others. It is also important finement and Improvement, will last mate,” the press release reads. Phase Two, which started in 2014, Chiefs Conference. According to that systems have low operating at least two years. Griffith writes that Over 3,300 homes in rural the DEC awarded six teams funds to Griffith, Phase Three is expected to costs. it is possible that the installation of Alaskan villages, that’s over 75 per- complete proposals for prototypes of last about two years. Teams will DOWL Alaska’s proposed proto- systems could begin during Phase cent of homes, lack running water in-home water and sewer systems. present the results of their prototypes type is a system with water and Five. Nanook basketball teams open season at Grace Christian By Keith Conger have participated in a varsity game pects his team to be at full strength held the lead late in a 56-46 loss to more skilled and have more experi- Those familiar with Nome-Beltz last year. He led his team in scoring by the Subway Showdown on Janu- Galena on Thursday. The Nanooks ence than we did last year. It’s just Nanook basketball will see many each night, put in 50 points in three ary 7 through 9. The team will get a lost to a much taller Grace Christian the beginning of the season, so we new faces on the court during the days, and contributed nearly 60 per- defensive boost from Leif Erikson, squad 45-32 on Friday, and then have a lot of time for even more im- 2015-2016 season. Both the boys cent of the Nanook’s offense. After who returns after attending the state were beaten by Mt. Edgecumbe 62- provement.” and girls squads started their season the tournament Booth said he re- wrestling meet this weekend. 35 on Saturday. Ahmasuk is joined by two other by attending the three-day Grace ceived more defensive attention than Girls head coach Don Stiles said Senior Senora Ahmasuk returns to transfer students: her sister Kerry Christian Tournament in Anchorage he had in the past. the Lady Nanooks haven’t played the team full-time after transferring Ahmasuk, a sophomore, who has December 17 through 19. Nome bowed to the Galena much with each other in the past and from Mt. Edgcumbe. Under ASAA also transferred from Mt. Edge- The Nanook boys travelled south Hawks on Thursday 71–28. They are still coming together as a team. rules, Ahmasuk was only allowed to cumbe, and senior Katy Tomter, who with an almost completely new lost to the host Grace Christian Griz- Despite losing all three games at the participate in the conference final played for Eagle River last year. squad after losing six players from zlies 69-34 on Friday and fell to the Grace tourney, Stiles said his girls last year. She says, “We are a lot the 2014-2015 squad to graduation. Mt. Edgecumbe Braves 61-24 on Senior Ian Booth was the only player Saturday. at the Grace Christian tourney to Boys head coach Pat Callahan ex- Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! From Mark, Trinh & Staff

Spa, Nails & Tanning 120 W First Avenue 907-443-6768 Photos courtesy of Nome-Beltz High School Yearbook Club SURROUNDED— Nome-Beltz senior Senora Ahmasuk gets a shot off against Grace Christian during at game on Friday. The Nanooks fell to the Grizzlies 45-32.

Floral Shop 122 West 1st Avenue Serving Nome and all surrounding villages 907-443-6800 Nome Outfitters Your Complete Hunting & Fishing Store! 120 W First Ave. 907-443-2880 MOVING THE BALL— Nome-Beltz senior Rayne Lie passes the ball Free Delivery to Airport during a game against the host Grizzlies at the Grace Christian Tour- nament in Anchorage on Friday. THE NOME NUGGET sports THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 9

Erikson, Horner crowned 2015 state wrestling champions

By Keith Conger as somewhat of an underdog. He year,” said head coach Dudley sen, Sam Cross, Ethan Kelso, Kalani Miller, Duke McGuffey and Corey The ASAA 123A Wrestling State qualified for the state meet in 2014, Homelvig after the meet. “A coach Suemai, Leif Erikson, James Horner Erikson. He also said Brian Marvin Championships are like a raffle — but did not place in the top six. This couldn’t ask for better role models and Nolan Horner. He said all were helped with their important fundrais- the more wrestlers you have entered year he found himself in the same di- for Nome and Nome wrestling; top solid contributors, and it will be a ing raffle. in the tournament, the more likely vision as former state champion students, good athletes, relentless hard crew to replace. see photos on page 10 you are to win one of the 15 top spots Gary Eakin of Kotzebue, who he had workers and outstanding human be- Homelvig said there were many — it just makes mathematical sense. lost to 3-0, and 3-1 in two previous ings. They continue the list of Nome people that helped make the 2015 The small Nome-Beltz wrestling matches. The regional foes were wrestlers I’m proud to have Nome-Beltz wrestling team a suc- Merry Christmas from team, which travelled to last week- slated to meet in the Western Con- coached.” cessful one. He got coaching contri- end’s state meet at Bartlett High ference finals two weeks ago, but Homelvig noted that the team is butions from Charlie Cross, Matt the Nome Nugget Sports School in Anchorage with just six Eakin forfeited with an ankle injury. losing seven seniors; Jeremy Knud- Michels, Lonny Booshu, Jared high school boys, ignored the arith- Horner breezed through his first Department metic as seniors Leif Erikson and two matches at the state meet. He James Horner both outlasted all oth- was able to dispatch Kari Hays of ers in their weight classifications to Homer High School 17-1 in an open- win state titles. Only the team from ing round technical fall and went on Bethel High School finished with to beat Riley Martin of Grace Chris- more state champs. tian High School 11-2 in a major de- Erikson is well acquainted with cision. the top spot on the podium. He was Horner said he was pretty nervous the state champion in the 126-pound about his number-two seeded semi- division in his sophomore season. final opponent Titus Tripple of This year he posted a 34-1 record and Thorne Bay High School, whom he was the victor in all but one of the had never wrestled before. The unfa- tournaments he entered. His lone loss miliarity of the two showed during came to a 4A wrestler from Colony the first period, which ended 0-0. “I Merry Christmas High School in the Kotzebue Bush choose (to start the second period) on Brawl. the bottom. Half the period went by It could be argued that Erikson before I countered one of his moves. was adversely affected last year by I got him on his back and pinned an Alaska School Activities Associ- him,” said Horner of the fall he got and a ation board of directors decision. For at three minutes, 9 seconds. the 2014 season ASAA produced a As expected, Eakin reached the fi- one-year scheduling fluke, which al- nals. Horner’s strategy was to be the lowed the larger 4A teams of the aggressor and to keep the pace up. Southeast Conference to wrestle dur- He scored the first point on what he Happy New Year ing the 123A state tournament. If not described as an unintentional techni- for his loss to a 4A wrestler from cal violation by Eakin. That was the Ketchikan in the 138-pound division only point scored in the opening pe- that year, Erikson might be celebrat- riod. Horner chose to start the second to all of ing his third straight state title. frame in the down position and This season Erikson moved up to scored an escape point, extending his the 145-pound classification. “There lead to 2-0. Eakin followed suit by are two types of wrestlers,” he said. starting down the third period. His Nome from “One type are the ones that get faster escape brought the score to 2-1. at the same weight. The other type “I had to keep pushing the pace,” gets stronger and goes up a weight.” said Horner. “He was getting tired. Erikson considers himself in the sec- He shot on me and I was able to get ond group. “I’ve always wanted to be a takedown.” Those final points stronger and faster, so that’s what earned Horner a 4-1 victory, and net- I’ve worked on in the off-season and ted him his first state title. at wrestling camps.” “I went into the match really ex- Never one to take any opponent cited,” said Horner. “This was the lightly, Erikson says, “I go out every last match of my career. I was just match as if I’m up against the state having fun.” champion.” To that end, he worked hard in his first two matches at this Suemai takes second place year’s state tourney, both against By taking second place in the 160- much lesser seeded wrestlers he had pound classification in the 123A never seen before. Erikson employed Girls State Wrestling Champi- his strategy of taking his opponent onships, senior Kalani Suemai be- down and then letting him go, scor- came Nome’s highest positioned girl ing two points for every takedown, wrestler ever. The bracketing for the but giving up a point each time he al- second annual girls meet, which was lowed an escape. Over his career, structured a bit differently than the Erikson has used this method to give boys, led to Suemai facing Katie THE “TOP TEN” WAYS TO AVOID THE him valuable lessons about his oppo- Rios of Homer twice in two separate nent’s weaknesses. He demonstrated semi-finals matches. Suemai won EMERGENCY ROOM DURING THIS its effectiveness by pinning Maver- both matches convincingly by pin- ick Ballard of Craig High School in ning her opponent in 43 and 41 sec- HOLIDAY SEASON one minute, 35 seconds in his open- onds. She also wrestled top-seeded ing round match and Garner Unok of Sydnee Kimber of Mount Edge- #10 Don’t go “through the river and over the woods”. Kuskokwim Learning Academy in cumbe High School twice, in 6-2 and (Be careful of ice and overflow when traveling by snowmachine and four-wheeler.) one minute, 15 seconds in the second 12-1 decisions. #9 Don’t “roast chestnuts on an open fire”. round. In 2014 Suemai had a knee injury Erikson would need every ounce that prevented her from taking part in (Be careful not to overload electrical outlets or leave wood stoves unattended.) of saved energy for his semifinal the state meet. This year, she was #8 Be careful “rocking around the Christmas tree”. match-up with the number four only able to practice for a few weeks (Celebrate sanely and wisely.) seeded Kyler Sumauang of Sitka. due to the overlap of the volleyball #7 Respect the “silent night”. Unlike his previous matches, the and wrestling seasons. Despite those (Drive cautiously in the dark.) bout with Sumauang would go the challenges, Suemai was able to wres- #6 Beware of “the newly fallen snow”. tle at a high level at Bartlett. She said distance. “He’s a really good (Shovel snow slowly, stop periodically to rest.) wrestler,” Erikson said. “He pushed that after the meet she was ap- me hard. I had to dig deep.” proached by a representative of Team #5 Use caution “up on the house top”. Sumauang knotted the score at 2- Alaska’s wrestling squad who in- (Be careful hanging lights outside the house.) 2 after the first period. By the third vited her to participate in the 2016 #4 Watch for “Frosty the Snowman”. period Erikson had worked to a 5-4 Arctic Winter Games in Greenland. (Dress appropriately for the weather.) advantage. Sumauang choose bottom “It was cool to see all the girls #3 Yield to sleighs. (Obey the rules of the road when walking or driving.) to start the final frame, and was show up,” said Suemai of the girls #2 Don’t partake in “sugar plums”. (No Street drugs.) quickly able to escape, pulling even growing participation in the sport. at 5-5. Erikson was worried when his “There were definitely more than last southeastern opponent got him into a year. It’s definitely becoming a #1 The Christmas spirit is NOT headlock, but with only 10 seconds thing.” remaining in regulation Erikson says The Nanooks had two other what you drink; it is how you think! he used an arm drag to get away and wrestlers place in the top six. Fresh- score the two-point takedown neces- man Starr Erikson took sixth in the sary for a 7-5 victory. 106-pound classification for girls and The assistance and team spirit of the Nome Police Department, Nome Erikson was more familiar with freshman Caleb Evatt also ended up police dispatchers and Nome Fire Department Volunteers have helped his championship opponent, Michael sixth in the 98-pound boys division. Lucas of Holy Rosary Academy, the Other qualifiers from Nome to at- make the NVAD successful and proud. Thank you all so much. defending state champion at the 132- tend the state meet were freshman pound weight class. He beat Lucas 7- Ben Cross, junior Tim James and Daniel “Koonuk” Angusuc Scott Hall Sean Penetac 3 at the ACS tournament on senior Nolan Horner. Hunter Bellamy Bryant Hammond Wes Perkins November 4 and claimed his second According to Trackwrestling.com, Gregory Bishop John Handeland Thomasine Prince state title by beating him again at the Nanook boys were the eighth Kimberly Bishop Lyette Harvey Danielle Slingsby Bartlett on Saturday, winning by a 9- place team with 70 points. Homer Mitchell Borden Seijiro Heck Elsie Vaden 3 decision. High School earned first place with Jeff Collins Mathew Huntsinger Jim West 212 points. Bethel High School Craig Donaldson Casey Johnson Melissa Woehler Horner pulls upset in 160- placed second with 168 points and Vickie Erickson Brent Oesterritter Ryan Woehler pound division Kotzebue rounded out the top three Mimi Farley Karen O’Neil Horner entered the 160-pound di- with 138.5 points. Officers: Chief- Victoria Erickson, Lieutenant- James West Jr., Member at Large- Wesley Perkins, vision as the number three seed, and “Leif and James led the way this Training officer- Scott Hall, Secretary- None appointed 10 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 sports THE NOME NUGGET

Photos courtesy of Nome-Beltz High School Yearbook Club GOTTA BELIEVE— Nome-Beltz senior James Horner, the third seed at the 2015 ASAA Wrestling State Championships, works hard against top-seeded, and former state champion, Gary Eakin of Kotzebue in the finals of the 160-pound division. Horner pulled off the 4-1 upset and brought home a state title for his weight class.

BRACKET BUSTERS— Nome-Beltz seniors James Horner, right, and Leif Erikson beat the state’s best wrestlers in their weight classes at the 2015 ASAA Wrestling State Championships last weekend. As per tra- dition, the new state champions got to keep the original copy of their bracket. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

MOST HIGHLY DECORATED— Senior Kalani Suemai became the top-ranked girl in the history of Nanook wrestling by taking second place in her division at the state meet.

“Oh the weather outside is frighƞul, But the lights and water from NJUS are so delighƞul, And if you can’t be out on the go, Enjoy and just Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!”

We wish you the best for the holidays and look forward to THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT— Nome-Beltz freshman Caleb Evatt, who placed sixth in the 98-pound weight class at last weekend’s state conƟnuing to serve you in the new year. meet, leads a talented crew of young Nanooks wrestlers. THE NOME NUGGET Christmas THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 11 How Nome’s Paul Kudla became Santa Paul

By Maisie Thomas tas toured various religious centers Nomeites know Paul Kudla as the and met the vice president of the man walking down Front Street with Central Asian country. his Afghan hound, Fire. Others know Unlike many of the Santas, in him as a driver for Stampede Ven- what he calls a growing field, Kudla tures Trucking. But his long white has “ivy-league” credentials. In 2007 hair and beard help reveal his true and 2008, Kudla attended classes at identity: Santa. the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus The 67-year-old truck driver is School, known as the “Harvard of also a professional, and profession- Santa Schools.” The non-profit ally-trained, Santa Claus. Being Michigan institution is now in its Santa Paul, as he is called, is more 79th year of operation, making it the than just a job title for Kudla, it’s a oldest school of its type. The CWH way of life. “I’m Santa 100 percent School helped Kudla to embody of the time,” said Kudla, “even when Santa both physically and mentally. I’m delivering fuel, I always have Along with grooming techniques, candy or something for the kids.” Crimson graduates learn techniques In 2007, Kudla, who “hates for singing and reading to children as crowds, dislikes Christmas music well as how to properly do the fa- and never particularly liked kids,” mous “ho, ho, ho.” seemed an unlikely candidate for Old This year, Kudla is appearing on St. Nick. But eight years later, Kudla the big screen for the first time. He is has impersonated Santa all over the one of 10 Santas featured in the first world and has gained nationwide no- season of the show “Santas in the toriety. Barn.” The participants are compet- Most people dream about seeing ing for the accreditation of Best Santa, not necessarily about being Santa in America. Contestants are Santa. Kudla admits that he doesn’t judged by their skills in various remember having a particular affin- “Santa activities,” such as climbing ity for the character as a child. But chimneys and pushing sleighs loaded his best friend happened to be a pro- with presents. The winning Santa is fessional Santa and told Kudla he awarded $100,000 and a donation should give it a try. The friend gave made in his name to a charity of his him the name of his agency, Cherry choice. Should he be crowned, or Hill Photo, and they found him a job. rather capped, winner, Kudla wants Kudla worked his first mall in the money to go to Make-A-Wish Brownsville, Texas in 2007, and the Foundation. The charity helps chil- rest is history. dren battling life-threatening ill- He sits in malls, and most recently nesses. Bass Pro Shops, and listens to kids’ But when asked what keeps him wishes. Kudla poses for photos for sitting among crowds and listening five or six hours each day for six to Christmas music for hours at a weeks each year. Kudla’s agent Na- time, it’s for not the paid trips or tionwide Santas supplies the Santas fame. Kudla says it’s the kids. “Santa for Bass Pro Shops, an outdoor retail means a lot [to children], and I want company. to be that special Santa.” Though he Just as Santa flies above houses, doesn’t have children of his own, it Kudla goes above and beyond his job turns out Kudla likes kids more than Photo courtesy of Paul Kudla description. His “Santa gig,” as he he thought. And he is committed to ON THE JOB— Santa Paul and his Afghan hound Fire pose for a glamour shot on the job. calls it, has allowed him to travel them. “Hopefully I’ll be a Santa right are also an illusion: Santa bleaches known for being the most realistic. around the country, Kudla was back across the globe. And just like Santa up until the end, it’s the best thing his hair. The outfit goes beyond the He is also known as the one who re- for good in 2005. Claus, his flight is free, paid for by I’ve ever done,” he said. red coat and hat. Kudla’s custom- sides closest to the North Pole. And Kudla likes the small town envi- Nationwide Santas. According to Kudla said his favorite part about made attire includes hand-made just how did the Quincy, Massachu- ronment, where everyone, especially Kudla, one of the best parts of his job the job is, “Just the magic in the chil- boots and hat along with bells, keys, setts native end up in Nome? “I was the children, knows him. Profession- is that his flights and hotel rooms are dren’s eyes when they see Santa.” To bags, a belt, and a special watch. chasing a lady,” Kudla laughed. The ally and personally, Kudla lives for paid for. Kudla has certainly made help bring children’s dreams of Santa Along with the typical accessories, lady, a traveling nurse, was stationed the small moments of happiness and the most of his opportunity for travel. to life, he puts a great deal of effort Kudla also has a number of pacifiers. in Nome in the early 2000’s. Kudla excitement he brings to children, the A few years ago, Kudla took part in into making his look realistic. “People always say ‘oh, some kid first arrived in Nome in the summer moment when they put aside their the Santa Olympics in Norway. The Although he has the wire rim dropped their binky,’ but they’re of 2003, and got a job working at shyness to see the magical man who event pits over 100 Santa imperson- glasses, long white beard and the mine.” He said that this is a Scandi- Alaska Cab Garage. As is the case brings presents. “If I can get one kid ators against each other in games perfect “ho ho ho,” Kudla is missing navian tradition he learned when he for many Nomeites, he left but like that a year, it makes it all worth such as skiing and kick sledding. He one of Santa’s key traits: the belly. To traveled to Norway. couldn’t stay away. “What keeps me it.” was one of 16 Santas to travel to compensate for his lack of girth, His close attention to detail has here are the people, they know me It doesn’t matter if this moment Kyrgyzstan for the Festival of the Kudla wears a gel vest to complete paid off: Kudla said that even among because of my dog, and I get along happens while delivering fuel, walk- Santa Clauses and Friends. The San- his $5,000 outfit. The hair and beard other professional Santas, he is with the people here.” After drifting ing his dog or sitting in a mall.

I was able to quit at my own pace and conquer my cravings while working with my coach. I became a nonsmoker. Photo by Kim Hunt UNIQUE—Driftwood is decked in Christmas decorations on the northwest side of Savoonga in early December. Grinch stole NES trees

By Diana Haecker trees. He said it was sad to see that To their consternation, Nome somebody would do that and that if Public Schools maintenance staff somebody was in need of a Christ- found on Monday morning that the mas tree, he would’ve gladly helped two small spruce trees planted in to provide a tree. NPS notified the front of the Nome Elementary Nome Police Department of the theft Schools had been cut and mutilated. and is now looking for information. The trees barely stood three feet A public announcement stated that if tall despite their old age – they were those were indeed stolen for Christ- planted when the school was built in mas decorations, “it is very sad, be- the late 1980’s — but an unknown cause it goes against the spirit of person apparently sawed off the tip goodwill and fellowship that is part of one tree, and hacked off some of this.” meager branches of the other tree. Contact the Nome School District NPS Superintendent Shawn Office at 443-2231 if you have more Arnold said the assumption is that information. somebody took them for Christmas 12 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015regional THE NOME NUGGET

Photo by Nancy Persons LOTS OF HAPPY CHILDREN— Students from Nancy Person’s sec- Photo by Sally Grimsrud ond grade class in Unalakleet are super excited to open their packages STOCKINGS WILL BE FULL— Gambell high school students Caitlin Konahok and Braden Koonooka which contained wooden toys. The gifts were part of a cooperative proj- proudly display dozens of the wooden cars their class produced for the younger children in their village. The ect between village shop and art teachers that saw hudndreds of Bering construction was part of the BSSD’s district-side Santa’s Workshop project. Strait School Distirct children recieve presents. Santa’s Workshop recruits a troop of elves from the region BSSD students make over 1,000 toys for village youth By Keith Conger Even though not all BSSD had after-school painting parties. bott’s classes produced an additional “This is a gift project. It teaches Santa knows he can find reindeer schools currently offer wood work- Sites were also responsible for set- 260. He said that during the height of the students how it’s special to give,” for his sleigh in the Seward Penin- ing classes, each site became in- tling on a distribution method for the the “assembly-line” production, his said Golovin CTE instructor David sula region, but this fall he also used volved in at least some part of the toys. Many schools shared the pres- students were cranking out 28 per Herrmann. “This teaching collabora- the 15 schools of the BSSD to enlist production. To fill the number of toys ents during their Christmas pro- hour. They had such fun making the tion, along with a lot of hard work hundreds of elves in the form of mid- needed, those with active shops were grams. wooden cars, trucks, tractors, heli- from the students, yielded some 60 dle school and high school students. able to generate and send out a sur- Steven Abbott is the CTE/shop copters, planes and knick-knack toy kits for distribution across the In this year’s Christmas story, plus of unpainted, roughed out play- teacher at the St. Michael school boxes that he allowed each worker to district and another 35 for the Santa is played by Chase Ervin, the things. Schools that lacked the means where presents were parceled out on keep one toy for every four they pro- Golovin students to give to their Career and Technical Education Fa- to produce toys finished their pres- Thursday night. He said that duced. These extra St. Michael toys younger siblings,” he said. cilitator for the Bering Straits School ents by painting them and assem- wrapped presents were placed in six brought the district’s production Herrmann and his wife Sonia had District. Ervin was a classroom bling axles and wheels. In all, the large boxes for distribution during numbers up to well over 1,000 units. front row seats to the gift giving at teacher prior to his district office po- cooperative project was able to ex- their Christmas program. Students “We went through over 800 tires and Golovin’s Christmas program on sition. One of the projects he devel- ceed the 958 toys required to get a from each class were given an un- axles,” he said. Thursday night as they played Mr. oped was called Santa’s Workshop present into the hands of all pre- named present and were allowed to “I’ve never seen as many of the and Mrs. Claus. “The gym floor was where older students in his school school through fourth grade students trade if they wished. older students as excited about a quite busy with little kids testing out constructed, and then presented, in the district. Abbott likes the Santa’s Work- project as this one,” said Gambell art their new cars and trucks,” said Her- handmade toys to younger students. Santa had a ready-made task force shop and said in the past his students teacher and liason Sally Grimsrud. rmann after the program. “Big broth- “In Koyuk we did this and it was ex- of helpers for his Nebraska-sized have created and donated toys to the “The kids loved this project. They ers and sisters helped point out the tremely successful,” he said. workshop. After the wood workers Marine’s Toys for Tots program. He loved the fact they were making customized features like their bas- Ervin devised a formula where the roughed out the toys, they were said Santa’s Workshop is great for his them for their little brothers, sisters, ketball jersey number on the side or entire Koyuk school became in- passed along to each site’s art liaison. classes because it incorporates all and cousins,” she said. On Wednes- initials on the bottom. The whole volved. The high school kids used The BSSD Itinerant K-12 Art Inte- four points of project planning that day the older students delivered the school has experienced the gift of wood to cut out and shape the toy gration Specialist Robin Child he teaches to his shop students. This gifts to the classrooms of the younger giving that has always made this time parts. Middle school students did all helped coordinate these on-site art includes thinking of an idea, drawing students. She said that third grade of year so special.” the sanding and painting, while facilitators who each year take on the and sketching it out, coming up with teacher Lani Bauer stopped every- After the program Golovin princi- younger kids were involved as re- tasks of supporting student art en- methods and materials, and then cre- thing when her class received their pal Gay Jacobson added, “When the ceivers of the presents. deavors and sparking community en- ating the work. “You can apply this presents. Bauer let her kids have cre- elementary students opened the cars This year, due to his position as a gagement. They also help administer plan to everything in life,” he said. ative playtime as they build ramps they were extremely happy! I’m so BSSD coordinator, Ervin had the op- school-wide art projects such as St. Michael was one of the sites and race courses from objects around thankful to the secondary students portunity to turn the entire district Santa’s Workshop. that achieved an oversupply of toys. the classroom. “It’s what we call the for making something our elemen- into Santa’s Workshop. He said the Child said each art liaison chose a The school needed 85 gifts, but Ab- teachable moment,” said Grimsrud. tary students love.” schools, “really took it and ran with way to complete the project within it. Everyone came together and their school. Some of the sites worked hard.” worked on toys during class, others

Please help Jens Hildreth

Monies raised are being used for travel, food, lodging, Thank you so Photo by Sally King car, gas. Any and all monies are greatly appreciated in AUTO DETAILING— St. Michael high school students produced 345 very very much. wooden toys for the BSSD’s district-wide Santa’s Workshop project. The this time of need. final touches were applied during a holiday painting and hot cocoa party in in Art Liason Sandy King’s classroom. The painters were, from front Our hugs, love gratitude and appreciation Wells Fargo Account: to back, Esther Otten, Mary Tom-Oyoumick, Ryleigh Elachik, and extended to all of you involved. 596 593 3442 LouAnn Niksik. THE NOME NUGGET regional THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 13

Photos courtesy of Selkie School KANTELE—Finnish teacher Minna Kilpelainen, right, showed how her FAR AWAY, BUT VERY MUCH ALIKE— One of the things Finland’s Selkie School shared with Nancy Per- students use the Kantele, a traditional instrument. They sang a Kalevala son’s second grade class in Unalakleet was Tero Mustonen of Snowchange Cooperative demontrating ice fish- song that has not been used for over 116 years in their Selkie village. ing. Unalakleet class exchanges Christmas gifts of culture By Keith Conger three locations where this project of traditions as well as international- hearing them talk. They also like that intrigued that we do a lot of the same It may take Santa hours and hours works.” He added, “This project has ization.” they recognize some of the Christ- things, such as fish, hunt and pick to fly the nearly 4,000 miles between a real potential to be a model educa- “Overall they think it is fun to see mas songs by the tune, but not the berries.” Alaska and Finland, but for the sec- tional initiative for the remote vil- people in another country,” said Per- words. They always enjoy the cul- ond grade class of Unalakleet teacher lages of the Arctic and North, and at sons in reference to her second tural exchange, and are especially in- Nancy Persons, and a class of school the same time promote revitalization graders’ experience. “And they love terested in their language, and are children in Kontiolahti, it took only a fraction of a second to deliver their presents. In lieu of Christmas offer- ings with ribbons and bows, the youngsters from the southern Norton Sound village and their northern Eu- ropean counterparts used the Internet to give knowledge of their culture as gifts. Every Christmas for the past eight Bering Air years Persons’ class and the 30-some students from the Selkie Primary School in eastern Finland have got- ten together via Skype for Christmas greetings and cultural exchanges. The two rural schools share the com- *2015 UNALAKLEET SPECIAL* monalities of residing in small, northern-latitude villages in the countryside, as well as coming from places with unique and rich cultures. In 2008, Tero Mustonen was visit- ing Alaska as part of Snowchange Cooperative. According to the group’s website, “In the past 15 years Snowchange has developed into a major force in international climate and indigenous policy and research.” The website goes on to state, “Snow- change Cooperative is also a network of local and indigenous cultures around the world – our partners in- clude the Saami, Chukchi, Yukaghir, Inuit, Inuvialuit, Inupiaq, Gwitchin, Icelandic, Maori, Australian Aborig- inal and many other local and in- digenous peoples and communities.” During his visit to Unalakleet, Mustonen contacted the school prin- cipal about setting up a cooperative exchange between the children of his hometown and the students in the Western Alaska community. Persons • $1000 for a booklet of 10 coupons said yes to the unique opportunity and her classes have been participat- • Books/coupons must be purchased by 12/31/15 ing ever since. Through this activity Persons’ second graders have become part of • Valid for travel through January 10, 2017 an international school project spon- sored by Snowchange Cooperative • Coupons can be used for round trip OR one way travel called “School at the Heart of the Village.” Not only have the young kids from Unalakleet met with chil- 1 Coupon for 1 Round Trip: Gold Points Members* can dren from Selkie, but they have also had exchanges with the School of Unalakleet: Koyuk, Shaktoolik, Purchase individual coupons for Norya, in the Republic of Udmurtia, St. Michael, Stebbins Russian Federation. $100 per coupon Persons said on December 8 and --OR-- ~AND~ 9 her Unalakleet students shared In- upiaq translated Christmas songs, ½ Coupon for One way: Gold Points Members Eskimo dancing, local subsistence activities such as berry picking and Unalakleet: Koyuk, Shaktoolik, receive DOUBLEDOUBLE POINTS** POINTS** local clothing including kuspuks and skin sewings. The children from St. Michael, Stebbins For each segment flown on these routes Selkie presented their Christmas songs, demonstrated their unique musical instruments and provided Not a Gold Points Member? Ask us how to enroll! traditional recipes. The kids from Norya have exhibited their well-pre- **** DoubleDouble pointspoints offeroffer validvalid untiluntil 12/31/1512/31/15 onlyonly served, age-old traditions and dress. Mustonen says, “Our project fo- cuses on preservation of traditional language, place names, subsistence If we can assist you for any future travel plans, please don’t hesitate to call. and cultural practices as well as re- newal of traditions at the village Thank you for choosing Bering Air! level through the schools. We have successfully integrated the local tra- Nome 1-800-478-5422 Kotzebue 1-800-478-3943 Unalakleet 1-800-390-7970 ditions into the curriculum in the 14 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 regional THE NOME NUGGET Breakfast with Santa

PRINCESS SIGHTING— Addison Knudsen is excited to meet Snow White, played by Nicole Santonastaso, at Breakfast With Santa on Sat- urday. The theme of the event was A Fairy Special Christmas.

Photos by Keith Conger HAPPY CUSTOMERS— The Marbles are served by Ariana Adams and Eli Tozier at the Breakfast With Santa.

WHO IS THIS GUY?— Young Ryu Weaver does not quite know what to make of Santa during the Breakfast with Santa on Saturday morn- ing.

SERVICE WITH A SMILE— Girl Scout Madison Johnson serves coffee to Buddy and Ryan Okleasik at the HANGING OUT WITH THE CLAUS’— Alexa Miller and Iryna Ka- Breakfast With Santa on Saturday. This event marked the sixth year for the Nome Preschool and Nome Lit- datska tell Mr. and Mrs. Claus what they want for Christmas at the eracy Council fundraising event. Breakfast With Santa event on Saturday.

Give the gift of a Nome Nugget subscription. Fill out the form below and send to: P.O. Box 610 • Nome, Alaska 99762 • (907) 443-5235 Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Check Money Order Credit Card Visa/Mastercard Exp. Date: / $75 out of state $65 in state One year subscription. Please enclose payment with form. THE NOME NUGGET regional THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 15 Christmas in Shishmaref By Irene Ahgupuk go to the school to get reindeer or Hooray” and “There is nothing writ- games are to show strength and en- boots are mixed in a box than Christmas traditions that are still caribou meat to cook for the feast, ten down” family members and durance, some include the finger dumped onto the floor as they race to being celebrated here in Shishmaref numerous pots of soup are brought to friends go down and place a gift into pull, ear pull, leg wrestle, seal hop be the first to put their boots on. start on the 24th of December at the the school from different homes the racer’s bag. If we do hear “There and the “reindeer” one. These activ- As the night goes on with the high church where only the top of the along with what the cooks have is something written down”, we wait ities continue till the 30th. On the kick, people donate money in mem- Christmas tree is seen from all the made at the school. Everyone gets before we go down to bring the gifts, 31st one- year-olds and elders ory of loved ones who have passed, gifts gathered around the tree, behind excited after we eat soup because because someone is bringing down foot race at the gym, afterwards the the money is than divided between the mantel, and ending in the back soon after berries and Eskimo ice an extra special gift to one of the rac- Eskimo football game begins. the top 3 Two Foot High Kickers. room. cream are passed out from ladies, ers. The football game is held near the This event usually end a few minutes The community comes together, who made it at home to share. After Long ago I remember this is a lagoon, where there is no number to midnight, than we bring in the bring gifts, sing, children from Pre- we finish our feast it is important we time when cousins got to tease their limit of men playing on the field, the New Year with Eskimo dancing. We school to Junior High say their sing the doxology in Inupiaq before cousins by giving a silly but loving game usually last up to three hours, it make our way to the door at mid- peace’s and share their song, we pass we leave, only to return to the gym gift, we as a people have a great would begin in the light of day and night to watch the fireworks at the la- out the gifts and as we walk out the about an hour later to continue to cel- sense of humor. Each night we have end as it gets dark. The winner of the goon. door church council members pass ebrate with Eskimo dancing and bas- at least 30 groups that go up to stand game gets to rest after the celebration Our Christmas week of celebra- out goody bags with hard candy, an ketball games to follow. hear their “Hip Hip Hooray,” receive of the foot racers that evening, that tions ends where it started, at the apple and an orange. The next day is the start of with a check and gifts. When the last night we do not go home for 30 min- church. After an evening of sharing On Christmas morning we gather dog mushing, foot races and snow- group is celebrated we go home for utes we stay while the loser of the songs, we end the night with an old at church for the morning service. At shoe races; foot races are held out- 30 minutes to open our gifts, have a Eskimo football game serves coffee, tradition of a movie and cake, each the end of the service, an IRA coun- side unless it is too cold and are snack and than come back to the gym tea, juice and cookies before we start year we alternate the beginning of cil member announces the time for moved to the school gym. At night to continue our night with Eskimo the Two Foot High Kick competi- the treats with A’s or W’s, either the feast to be held at the school we gather at the gym to hear the “Hip games, we start with two or three tion. That evening cake mixes are Ahgupuks or Weyiouannas are the along with the names of the lead Hip Hooray” 1st, 2nd and 3rd place women’s games than the men’s brought to the gym for volunteers to first called down stairs to get chefs and dates of certain age groups racers stand up to exchange gifts games finish the evening. This is take home to bake for the New Years’ dessert. for foot races to be held December with their fellow racers, receive a rib- when we would thank our family and Church service the next day. Before 26 through 31. bon along with a check from the friends for the gifts. Women’s games the Two Foot High Kick, women As soon as church is over people IRA. After we hear the “Hip Hip are fun and full of laughs. Men’s compete in the mukluk race, where Unalakleet celebrates Christmas Tree lightning ceremony

By Laureli Ivanoff to rest eight people in the past is happy and amazed. They have a tall tree stands, and the lights make Come All Ye Faithful.” The snow didn’t come straight months, the most recent life remem- twinkle in their eyes. It is just joy all it seem so magical. I love it. I love The tree stands outside the Un- down that night. It rarely does in Un- bered on Monday. And we still have around,” she read. watching the people smile when alakleet Evangelical Covenant alakleet, but it was close. It was the one dear lady missing. “And that’s what the evening truly everybody is amazed,” she said. Church and remains lit throughout type of snow that seemed to quiet the What the 7th Annual Christmas brought,” Unalakleet Mayor Leona With the Christmas tree lit, the the holiday season. night. It seemed to bring individuals Tree Lighting Ceremony told us last Grishkowksy said. “The community celebration continued with songs This year, the colors on the tree closer together, like we all received Tuesday was that while the wind and counted down, five-four-three-two- from the Inupiaq Singers, the 4th are a symbol of joy and the child’s a reassuring pat on the shoulder. The weather can postpone a community one, and Lauren turned the Christ- Grade Christmas Tree Choir, the reminder that no matter how stormy snow, along with the hot cocoa, sugar event, there is always a break. Amid mas lights on. She captured our High School band and a carol from a time may be, there is light in this cookies and singing, played a part in pain and difficulty, there is light to celebration of light perfectly.” siblings Heidi Ivanoff, Jeff and Karl world that brings magic and wonder. giving residents in Unalakleet a very celebrate. The ceremony showed us “After the tree lights up,” Lauren Erickson. The crowd of more than welcomed sense of belonging and that during hard times, it’s important read, “then they are clapping. The 150 people then sang together, “O community. to come together, share food, smiles Because, as we all know, winter and sing. can bring difficulty with below zero “I love it when the people are temperatures and wind that can take there and wondering when the lights your breath away. While this winter are going to turn on,” Lauren “Ballin Below Zero” has brought relatively mild and Nanouk-Jones said at the ceremony. pleasant weather so far, our commu- The 11-year-old won the children’s nity has been riding what seems to be essay contest and her words wel- a very long cold snap, or a storm that comed and opened the event. “Then, won’t end. Our community has laid finally, the tree lights up! Everybody With Cam Smith and Tyler Eide December 28 - 31 When and what will we be doing?

• Ball Handling Nome Rec Center • Shooting 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. • Defense Grades 6th - 8th • Offense NO FEE AMOUNT! • Rebounding Register now. • Learning to read screens • Games and lots of fun!

Photo by Paul Ivanoff III Call NEC/ Sherri Anderson TREE LIGHTING— The Unalakleet Inupiaq choir sings at the tree lighting ceremony in Unalakleet. at (907) 443-2246 to register. In Savoonga, Christmas comes more than once a year 42nd Annual By Kimberly Hunt After the program, students re- The idea that Christmas comes turned to homerooms and, like the Lonnie O’Connor but once a year doesn’t necessarily lyrics of “Here Comes Santa Claus” apply in bush Alaska. This year, cit- say, it was Christmas once again. Iditarod izens of Savoonga enjoyed three ver- Students received hand-sewn back- sions of the holiday. packs full of treats ranging from yo- Basketball Classic The first came in October when yos and hand-knit hats to Slim-Jim Operation Santa Claus loaded a C- sticks, school supplies and toiletries. March 13 - 19, 2016 130 military transport plane with Savoonga’s Christmas season will groceries for distribution by the local conclude at the town’s Presbyterian ENTRY FEE: $200 DEADLINE: FEB. 3 LATE ENTRY FEE: $250 Native corporation and backpacks Church with a performance of the full of school supplies and toys, Nativity Play on December 23 and a # OF TEAMS SLOTTED FOR EACH DIVISION: Santa and Mrs. Claus, and even an late-night service on the Dec. 24. Men’s: B (9), A (8), Open (5), Over 35 (4) Ladies: B (6), Open (7) ice cream machine. For four hours in Families usually have dinner at mid-October, Christmas came to home, says village resident Raynard MUST HAVE AT LEAST 4 TEAMS SIGNED UP BY FEB. 3 FOR A DIVISION TO OCCUR. Savoonga. Toolie. “There will be fireworks and Christmas came again on the Eskimo dancing January 1 for New • Must be 19 years old OR 18 years old & a high school graduate evening of Wednesday, December Year’s,” Toolie added. • Double elimination except Championship Game 16, when students at Hogarth Shaina Soonagrook confirmed • Players must use same color uniform with #s on one side Kingeekuk Memorial School per- traditions common in the town. “We • Must not be more than 4 months pregnant formed their annual Christmas pro- usually go to the Presbyterian gram. Progressing by grade level church”, she said, “and then on • Teams must arrange their own housing from the preschool Head Start Christmas Eve, we finish handing Sportsmanship Nominations are due February 3 through 7th and 8th grades, classes out gifts and we have dinner at took the stage along the north wall of home.” For more information, the rules or the sportsmanship the school gym and sang or sang “On New Year’s, we go to the nomination form email [email protected] or call along to holiday classics such as church and then we go riding around 907-443-2867 during the evenings & weekends. “Joy To The World,” “I Saw Three on sleds and wait for the fireworks,” Look us up Ships,” “Deck The Halls” and “Here Soonagrook said. Mail entry fee, roster, division, team contact info to: on Facebook! Comes Santa Claus.” LOIBC • Box 420 • Nome, AK • 99762 12.24, 1.21.2016 16 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 Regional THE NOME NUGGET Christmas Doings

Published in Nomania, 1938 When it reached here it was placed From the Archives of the Carrie in cold storage and kept frozen M. McLain Memorial Museum until about ten days before Christ- mas. Then it was brought out and Our Superintendent of Schools put in warm storage until it thawed remarked to me at Christmas time: and was delivered for use. “It is good to live in a place where On Christmas Eve the Eskimo they really celebrate Christmas, choir, well-clad in fur parkas and isn’t it?” Yes, Nome really has a mukluks, goes caroling. Usually a great time at this season. Some, it team of horses draws a sled to con- is true, celebrate it in a bibu-lous vey the singers; but on this occa- way; others in a Bible-ous way – sion there was so little snow that but one way or another, we cele- the streets were open for automo- brate. biles. A truck moved us about town Among the features of pre- – too rapidly, I thought, to give the Christmas days are a program and music a chance. By eleven o’clock gift-giving at the Eskimo we were at the Nevada having Methodist Church, the Sunday sandwiches, and had only Belmont School pageant and choir cantata Point and the Sandspit yet to visit. at the Federated Church, Midnight The prospects were good for get- Mass at the Catholic Church and ting home by midnight. the Community Christmas Tree But a short way out of town, the and program at the Territorial truck stopped. After some effort to School. During this program a pro- get it started, we decided to aban- cession of Eskimo singers, clad in don it for the night, and continue to beautiful fur parkas, and carrying the Point on foot. There was three- candles, slowly enters the hall quarters of a mile to be covered. Photos courtesy Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum singing Adeste Fideles. The perfect The ground was icy and my muk- FESTIVE— Glittering Christmas trees and paper chains set a festive scene for a choir performance in Nome, beauty of this performance is luks were slippery. I was sitting 1947. marred only by fear that some can- down half the way, it seemed to dle is too near to the wolf-ruff of me, much to the amusement of all. the parka in front of it, and may We finished our singing at the scorch the fur. But such practical Point, and went to the Sandspit, observations are likely to be for- crossing Snake River on the ice. gotten while watching the happy Our leader then announced that faces of the singers. At the close of people were expecting us to sing the program, Santa Claus appears out by the radio station – the other on the stage with a real live rein- side of town! We could not ignore deer (or tow if the herders are the hopeful light, which would be lucky in training two), and there is shining in their windows for us! a sleigh full of bags of candy and We sang all the way out there and nuts for the children. Santa is hope- back, and were beginning to feel a fully expected, for he has been little bit worn around the vocal seen driving his reindeer along the cords when we quit about four snowy streets during the afternoon, o’clock in the morning. with bells-a-jingle. It had been a sublime night, our Another attraction — more un- impressions had ranged from usual than the reindeer in this part heights of celestial beauty to of Alaska — is the really-truly depths of human wretchedness. SCHOOL PLAY— Santa Claus, soldiers, and little stars line up to take a bow following a school Christmas play Christmas tree. Our trees have to During one of our stops we had in Nome, 1947. be brought in by dog team from seen a drunken man coming to- seventy or eighty miles down the ward us. He was shaking his fists coast. The tree for the Christmas at us and shouting the vilest, most community program was a 16-foot blasphemous language – appar- one. In order to get it here, about ently because we had been singing six or seven feet of the top had to Christmas carols on Christmas be cut out. This was to be spliced Eve. But the group continued its in after the tree reached Nome. singing, and clear as a bell across Extra branches were also sent to the cold air rang the beautiful make the bottom of the tree fuller. strains of “Silent Night” in the Es- But somehow on the trip the driver kimo language. Two of the girls lost the top part of the tree. A six- had written it down for some of us. foot tree that was to be used in a This was not an easy task, for Es- home was loaned to take the place kimo is not a written language, and of the top that had been lost. It all the words but be spelled pho- looked like a hopeless task, but netically. Sometimes, seven, eight, with a small tree, the bottom of a or nine syllables have to fit where, big tree, extra branches, plenty of in English, there are but three or planning and lots of hard work, four. Singing it with the Eskimo pretty decorations and many col- choir called for close attention to ored lights – lo, on the evening of timing of words, and was fun. the school program, a tall, stately, As we went to our homes, the beautiful Christmas tree greeted Northern Lights that had been us. Someone jokingly said that playing across the sky for hours DEEP SNOW— The Nevada buried in winter snow on the corner of Front Street. Nome, circa 1910. never again could he say with were still shedding mystery and Joyce Kilmer that “only God can beauty. A yellow crescent moon make a tree.” shone above the frozen sea. The The tree for the church program beginning of Christmas Day! Light came from 250 miles down the and shadow, beauty triumphing coast. It was cut in late September over ugliness – such is life, here and shipped to Nome by steamer. and everywhere.

Thanks The Nome Cancer Support Group, ICANs, thanks Everts Air Cargo for transporting Christmas Trees for our sale, Bells Nursery for supplying the beautiful trees, wreaths, and poinset- tias, Nome Joint Utilities for moving the trees, the National Parks Service for housing the trees, and the many volunteers who got Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year the trees delivered. from all of us at Q Trucking THE NOME NUGGET regional THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 17 The Bush Pilot and the Nuns

By Chuck Sassara breath away. I took her hands in paperwork through the federal bu- prise of the day was waiting for us. emony. The pilot, co-pilot, flight A letter arrived on my desk in mine and just held on. I turned to reaucracy for me. Look Mike, There must have been 50 people attendant, the judge and I looked at the capital city of Juneau. To my mother superior. “Tell me what there are two elderly nuns at St. gathered around all smiling and each other. I could see the emotion surprise it was an invitation to give happened here?” I implored. I ac- Mary’s Mission in Alaska who waving. in their faces. the graduation address at the mis- tually needed to sit down. I picked want to be United States citizens. The captain shut down the en- Ray Plumer went into a dressing sion school in Saint Mary’s, up a glass of water and downed it. They have been there for years and gines and we all piled out. The room and reappeared as a black Alaska. I readily agreed, this The story began to tumble out. years. I’ve got their applications all crowd of mostly Eskimos dressed robed judge, representing the would be fun. I would be reunited Mother superior began the tale. filled out. I even signed their in the finest of furs was there to es- United States of America. A table with my good friend, the mother “Sr. Tecla was a young nun born in names for them. By me, of course. cort us into the village. For some flanked by the U.S. flag and the superior. Italy who traveled by ship to New I’m going to express mail them to reason they insisted that the judge’s State of Alaska flag had been Every time I would have a trip York then was processed through you today. See if you can get them clerk, the flight crew, the judge and placed in the center of the basket- to the Yukon River delivering the Ellis Island. Somehow she man- approved right away. I mean in one myself climb up into the back of an ball court. mail, I would walk up to the mis- aged to get on a train to Seattle, day!” old World War II Army 10 wheeled He walked up to it and took a sion school to visit her and the Je- then onto a steamship bound for “Sure,” Senator Gravel re- truck and ride to the school, a dis- seat. The clerk said in a booming suit priest. I always asked her as I Nome. Then she hopped into an sponded. “I’ll have one of my staff tance of only a few hundred yards. voice: “Here Yee! Here Yee! The was departing, “Do, you or the open longboat, which took her take them over to the INS and I’ll We all protested saying we could court of the United States of Amer- nuns need anything from Anchor- across Norton Sound and up the have them stay right there till they walk. But they wouldn’t allow it. ica is now in session.” age?” Yukon River to the mission. She are approved. I’ll instruct them to This old 6x6 truck was the only ve- Sisters Tecla and Scholastica A few months later I found my- didn’t speak a word of English, I stand there with their hand out 24 hicle in St. Mary’s. We climbed up stepped forward and faced the self stuck in St. Mary’s. The don’t know how she ever made it.” hours a day if need be.” into the back and stood there and judge. Two tiny nuns dressed in weather had slammed the door shut Still clinging to her frail hand, The following day Senator waved as we slowly rolled down black habits raised their gnarled again. Nothing to do but sit it out my mind began to race as I di- Gravel was on the phone. “Sisters the one lane dirt road with our es- work worn hands. for a few hours. gested this story. My course of ac- Tecla and Scholastica’s applica- cort walking on each side. We I don’t think anyone took a It didn’t take long for mother su- tion was clear. Sr. Tecla would tions have been approved and are stopped in front of the gymnasium, breath while Tecla, 80, and perior to find out that I was stuck. have her wish. Whatever mountain in the mail to you. Good luck the piled out and walked in. Another Scholastica, 75, recited their She sent one of the kids to the needed moved would be moved. rest of the way.” surprise. The gym was packed full. pledge to defend their country airstrip to round me up and send I hugged both of the ladies. I “Thanks Senator,” I said.” I’ll Every square inch filled. Eskimos against all aggression, foreign or me back to the school. told them I’d be back as soon as keep you informed on how this all in their finest fur garments, elders domestic. “What do you mean you’re possible. As a trudged up to the turns out.” to infants. Many of them couldn’t They became citizens of United going to sleep in the plane, you strip I began to formulate a plan. On the following Thursday speak English but knew exactly States of America. There wasn’t a come on over to our house, I will The first order of business was to morning the Wien Consolidated why they were there. These people dry eye in the room. The pilot, co- find you a bed” she said. “That contact a federal judge. Fairchild F27 turboprop began its had traveled by dog team, snow- pilot, flight attendant and I were would be really nice, but will the I called Ray Plummer in An- trip to St. Mary’s with a very ex- machines and in some cases trying to wipe off the tears. Every- nuns agree to that?” I responded. chorage an old friend from Big cited group of passengers and walked over 100 miles to Saint one began to sing God Bless Amer- She laughed and said, “Sure they Lake days. “Hi your honor this is crew. Mary’s Mission from over 50 tiny ica. will. Besides I’m the boss you Chuck Sassara I need a big favor.” As we touched down on the villages scattered across the tundra. It was CHRISTMAS EVE, DE- know.” She winked to assure me. Yeah sure, what’s going on?” he gravel runway the first happy sur- All there to be witnesses to the cer- CEMBER 24,1969. “They will get a kick out of it. asked.” There is a Catholic nun Having a man around the house over in St. Mary’s Mission who and all.” wants to become a United States That night as I settled in for the citizen. She’d been there for about night in a real bed instead of being 60 years. Could you go over there Christmas Week Church Schedule bent into a pretzel in the cockpit of and set up court so we can help her a Cessna 185 I thought to myself, out. She is old and frail and won’t Our Savior Lutheran Church “Someday I’m going to have to fly so this is it. What you think?” 5th Avenue & Bering write a book.” “Chuck, that’s amazing. I’ll call 443-5295 I was up early in the morning my clerk and see if he will come • Thursday: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7 pm trying to scrounge up a cop of cof- with me. We can convene the court • Friday: Christmas Morn Service 11 am (w/ communion) fee in the empty dining room when out there. It will be an honor to take mother superior strode in. her oath of allegiance.” Nome Covenant Church “How was your night? Chuck, An hour later he called me back. 101 Bering Street did the goblins get you?” she “My clerk was really excited when 443-2565 • Pastor Harvey asked. “ Nah, I slept like a log.” I I told him. He says he is ready to • December 24th - Candle Light Worship 7 pm lied. “All night I kept waiting for a roll just tell us when.” “Thanks • December 27 - “The Boy Jesus” Sunday worship 11 am bolt of lightning to strike me.” By your Honor, I’ll call you as soon as • December 31 - Watchnight Worship, this time the place was coming I can put the pieces together.” Movie “The War Room” - 9:00 - 11:59 pm alive, food was being applied to The next call was to Ray Peter- empty plates. Mother superior ap- son, president of Wien Consoli- Community United Methodist Church proached me with two plates and dated Airlines. West 2nd Ave & C Street motioned me to follow. As we took “Ray, I need to ask for a big 443-2865 Pastor Charles Brower our seats she asked me a strange favor.” • Christmas Eve Candle light service, question. “What is it?” he asked. “ Run it December 24, 2015 at 7 pm. “Chuck, with your last name, I by me; anything but cash” he was wondering if you can speak laughed. We both hooted on that St. Joseph Catholic Church Italian?” one. Corner of Steadman & W. King Place “Just a few words.” I responded, “Ray, what it is, I would like 443-5527 “Why?” your flight to St. Mary’s to stay on • Thursday December 24 Mother superior continued. “We the ground for at least two to three Children’s Mass at 5:30 p.m. have a nun here who was born in hours this coming Thursday.” 11:30 p.m. caroling then Mass at Midnight Italy, so after we eat, how about “While I don’t know about • Christmas Day Dec. 25 going to the kitchen and saying that,” he said, “what’s going on Mass is at 10:30 a.m. hello to her?” that you need our plane parked?” As I stepped into the kitchen I “It’s this, Ray. I’m trying to get looked around. There she was. All a nun in St. Mary’s her U.S. citi- 4’6” of her with an apron tied zenship. U.S. Judge Ray Plummer around her waist. Pot in hand, a has agreed to convene court in St. hand that had known decades of Mary’s so she can take her oath, I toil. think we would need to be on the I approached her from the back ground for at least two hours.” Merry Christmas leaned down and whispered “Look, I’ll get right back to “BOUN JORNO, come e la vita you,” Ray said. “I will call the qui.” She quickly turned around, crew and see if they will agree to raised her hands to her face and this. You’re fine with me. I’ll bet I began to cry. She hadn’t heard her know her. What’s her name?” mother tongue in over 60 years. “Her name is Tecla, she’s from She began to try to explain to me Italy and of all things I just found that she couldn’t remember how to out there’s another one there. Her speak Italian. I told her that I had name is Sister Scholastica. Born in exhausted my vocabulary as well. Germany. She’s been there at the Then began a round of talk with mission for over 46 years.” Sr. Tecla, mother superior and my- “Chuck, just stand by I’ll get in The City of Nome extends best wishes for a happy Holiday Season self all trying to speak at the same touch with you it as soon as I can.” and a New Year filled with peace, joy and success. time. Broken English, broken Ital- I could tell that Ray was excited. ian and broken Yupik Eskimo, Ray was an old bush pilot who had what a time we had. pioneered flying in northwestern We look forward to serving you in 2016! As I made ready to leave I said Alaska. to Sr. Tecla, “Sister I’ll be back Within hours it was all coming around these parts in about a week, together. My next call was to do you need anything from An- United States Sen. Mike Gravel in chorage?” For the life of me I Washington, D.C. Mike and I had couldn’t think of what a 80-year- served together in the Alaska state old nun would need but I always legislature. Mayor Richard Beneville, Nome Common Council, Nome Police Department, asked. “Hey Mike, I need a big one.” Administration & Clerk’s Office, Public Works Department, Nome Recreation To my surprise she turned to me “Let me guess,” he said. “You want and said, “There is one thing I’ve an airline route direct from Paris to Center/Swimming Pool, Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum, Nome always wanted. I would like to be a Nome?” Volunteer Ambulance Department, Nome Volunteer Fire Department, Port of United States citizen.” “Nothing that easy,” I said. “I Nome, Kegoayah Kozga Library and Nome Planning Commission. I was flabbergasted it took my just want you to steamroll some 18 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 regional THE NOME NUGGET Obituary Leroy Christien Martin Legacy Funeral Home for the flow- fare, Sully for helping with equip- Henry, Victor and Alberta Steve, portation. Cyril Pete for using his August 19, 1990-October 5, 2015 ers, State of Alaska for coffin and air- ment, Peter Martin Sr. and Jared Rose Nashoanak, Fred and Marcia truck to bring Leroy to the house. Leroy Christien Martin, age 25, Pete for food donations, Albert Teay- City of Stebbins for purchasing the born in Nome to Lawrence and oumeak for preparing Leroy, Alaska tickets for immediate family. Christine Martin on August 19, 1990. Airlines and Bering Air for trans- Survivors include parents Lawrence and Christine Martin; sisters and brothers Louise, Letia, Richard, Vin- cent and Philomena; grandparents Joe and Martina Aparezuk; nieces Shalaeya, Christine, Donazeah, Alice, Jacinta, Tiana, Leanna, Abi- gail; nephews Ivan and Hayden; un- cles Peter Sr., Peter Jr., Ralph, Benedict, Hermes Sr., Dyuk; aunties Anna Sr., Bridgette, Celestine, Rachel, Hilda and Tessie; and many relatives too numerous to mention. Leroy was preceded in death by his grandparents Vincent and Alice Martin, uncle John Martin I, uncle John Washington, brother Lawrence Paul Martin II and niece Avril Mar- tin. Leroy was 25-years old and resided in Anchorage. He completed his GED, loved music, loved to dance and sing, loved to take walks, and loved his family. Everyone that knew him loved him. We would like to thank Dr. Erin Johnson with Behavioral Health, Peter Martin, Sr. for making the cross and coffin, Gwen and Bill of An- Leroy Christien Martin chorage for donations, Kehl’s Across 67. Arch Alaska Democrats announce new 68. Marked with sinuous lines, 1. ___ Christian Andersen botany 5. Medicated lozenge 69. Aims party chair 11. Stop on a crawl 14. Chill Last week, Mike Wenstrup an- and long-time community volunteer said. “I look forward to engaging 15. "Hip Hip, ___!" Down nounced he will be stepping down to for a variety of causes from garbage hardworking Alaskans in the politi- 16. "___ calls?" make way for his successor Casey clean-up to the fight against home- cal process to ensure everyone’s 17. Admirer of anything French 1. Sword handles Steinau of Big Lake (Mat-Su valley) lessness. voice has an opportunity to be 19. On, as a lamp 2. Acquiesce as chair of the Alaska Democratic Steinau plans to focus efforts on heard.” 20. Andrea Bocelli, for one 3. Shade Party ahead of the 2016 election grass roots organizing, community Steinau will begin serving as chair 21. "___ quam videri" (North 4. Married woman, Spanish cycle. outreach and voter protection as of the Alaska Democratic party in Carolina's motto) 5. Even if, briefly Wenstrup, a Fairbanks resident, party chair. January. 22. Bit of dust 6. Catch, in a way was elected party chair in 2012. His “We will continue to build a di- 23. Hush-hush 7. ___ and aahs departure follows the election of in- verse and inclusive party,” Steinau 25. Muhammad's religion 8. Emotionally stressful event dependent Governor Walker and De- 27. Light or popular music (2 wds) 9. Most robust mocrat Lieutenant Governor Mallott 32. Put one's foot down? 10. Artist's asset who formed a “Unity Ticket.” At the 33. Magical wish granter 11. Trigger, e.g. local level, five progressive-backed 34. ___-friendly 12. Condo, e.g. Johnson CPA LLC 38. Codeine source mayors were elected to serve the 13. Information unit 41. Exclusive Municipality of Anchorage, Fair- 18. Colgate rival Certified Public Accountants 42. Vestibule 22. Bison features banks-North Star Borough, City and 44. Girasol, e.g. Borough of Juneau, Matanuska- 24. Apprentice 46. Performance given only once at 26. Chair part Susitna Borough and Kenai Penin- any one place (hyph., 2 wds) sula Borough. Mark A. Johnson, CPA 28. Chop (off) 51. Close-knit group 29. Dostoyevsky novel, with "The" “This is really bittersweet for 52. "Stop right there!" me,” Wenstrup told the Executive 30. Bubkes For ALL your accounting needs! 55. Face-to-face exam 31. "Fancy that!" Committee. “I’m proud of what this 57. "Hamlet" has five party has accomplished and am con- 34. Alien? 60. Boredom 35. "My boy" fident the party is well-positioned for Please call for an appointment. 61. Family head 36. Someone visually attractive (2 victory in 2016.” 62. HNO2 (2 wds) wds) Wenstrup had put in motion plans 64. "___ not!" 37. Kidney-related to step down as chair several months Business and personal income tax preparation 65. Consecrate 39. Bull markets ago. The gavel will be passed to the • and planning 66. Battering wind 40. Buddy new party chair Casey Steinau of Big 43. Free from, with "of" Previous Puzzle Answers Lake, who currently serves as Vice Computerized bookkeeping and payroll services 45. Narrow country roads Chair for the Alaska Democratic • 47. Granular Party and Regional Vice Chair for • Financial statements 48. Bully the Mat-Su Democrats. 49. Period of legal minority Steinau has had a successful 20- 50. Classic yo-yo maker year career in real estate sales and in- 53. Association of persons of the vesting. She also brings to the party same trade valuable experience as a small busi- 122 West First Avenue • Nome, AK 99762 54. Keeps out of sight ness owner, former field representa- (907) 443-5565 55. "What are the ___?" tive for former Senator Mark Begich 56. Aggravate 58. Beethoven's "Archduke ___" 59. Princes, e.g. 62. Bother 63. Adaptable truck, for short

Winter Products December 2015 — Week 4

Promises must be Psst, Aries. You’re Hope pervades Uh-uh, Libra. LED Collar Lights broken this week as nowhere near the heart this week, Cancer, Matching wits at an a work matter moves of the matter. There is as the impossible office event is ill front and center. Give more detective work becomes possible. A advised. Listen and it your all, Capricorn, to do. A memento friend makes a quick learn. The cat is let out Pet Safe Ice Melt and you will get the inspires a new recovery. Throw a of the bag at home, results you were tradition. little celebration for and you’re stunned to December 22– hoping for and more. March 21– June 22– them. September 23– say the least. Dog Booties January 19 April 19 July 22 October 22 Dog Jackets Party time, Aquarius. Personalities are Yes, yes, yes, Leo! Yikes, Scorpio. All of Don’t say no. Put on bound to clash at an There is a light at the holiday spending your dancing shoes. event. Be ready to act, the end of the tunnel. is starting to take a toll There is so much to Taurus. A gift brings Just one last step to on your pocketbook. Dog Beds celebrate. A phone back fond memories complete, and it will Good thing there are call clues you in to a and inspires people to be party time. An some bargains coming friend’s dilemma. reconnect. investment begins to up. A loved one shares Straw January 20– April 20– July 23– pay off. October 23– a story. February 18 May 20 August 22 November 21

The countdown is on. Settle down, Gemini. Va-va-voom, Virgo. Visions of sugarplums Are you ready, Pisces? You will not blow You’ve been sticking may not be dancing If not, now is the it. You’ve done your to a fitness goal, and in your head, but Nome Animal House time, and you should homework, and it will people are starting to they are in others. start with that favorite show. A youngster notice. Your doctor Take it easy on your 443-2490 haunt. Wishes are asks a question you’ve will, too, when your team, Sagittarius. An granted. been dreading. reports come back argument is put to rest. M-F: 9am-6pm, Sat: 10am-2pm February 19– May 21– August 23– better than expected. November 22– March 20 June 21 September 22 December 21 Sun: closed

FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY THE NOME NUGGET regional THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 19

Photo by Diana Haecker NATIVITY SCENE— The Nativity Scene is displayed in front of the Nome Covenant Church. Cranberry Brussels Sprouts Recipe by Kendra Miller, MPH, RDN, LD with Miller Health Consulting, LLC

Makes 8 Servings Preparation Time: 5 minutes Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. Olive oil Saying It Sincerely 3 c. Brussels sprouts, halved c. Cranberries, dried c. Walnuts, chopped Rev. Karen Sonray, so – I am your servant.” So, too, self into the womb of his mother 3 Tbsp. Balsamic vinegar Our Savior’s the shepherds were doing their and into the manger and went on Lutheran Church ordinary care of their flock, when to the cross. This was the ladder Directions:   Luke 2 the most unexpected vision ap- that he placed on earth so that we 1. Preheat oven to 400°F.    2. In an 8x8” baking dish combine olive      At Christmas time we like to peared to them from the Heavens might ascend to God on it. “ oil, brussels sprouts, cranberries,   have certain things that bring announcing that a Savior had Martin Luther walnuts, and balsamic vinegar.     back memories from the past— been born for all people that God has chosen to come to us 3. Bake for 25 minutes. Serve warm.      traditions like candles, “Silent night. in our humanity, in the flesh. This     TIP:    Night”, our favorite cookies, a This Christmas, let us not is what theologians call the In-  ! "  decorated tree. But, think about worry too much about the tradi- carnation. He will experience all *You can use either fresh or frozen !  # Brussels sprouts with this recipe. For $  # it, the first Christmas was not tions and expected things. Let us that we do as human beings— frozen sprouts, extend baking time by 5 % &  filled with expected and tradi- instead be open to God’s Spirit the joy and zest of life, breathing minutes. %  & #' tional things at all. moving in this Holy day. Let us in the fresh air of a new day, the    & # The first Christmas was filled be open to the unexpected won- sorrows and joys, the disappoint- ( & # with mystery and the “unex- ders He is bringing to us. Let us ments and fellowship that come pected!” It was filled with sur- focus on the inner treasure of this with friends and family. He will prises. good news! A Savior has been even die for us and experience Sometimes we do not like sur- born for us. He comes in ordi- death. He does this so that we © prises, but God is often hidden in nary flesh, vulnerable and frag- will never be alone no matter the the unexpected. He sent the ile— a little baby. hardship or doubts. Thanks be to Angel Gabrielle to announce to “The Son of God did not want God who sent us His Son Jesus Mary that she would bear God’s to be seen and found in heaven. born at Christmas. Son— a Savior for the world. Therefore he descended from Merry Christmas! Church Services Mary didn’t say, “ I don’t like heaven into this humility and surprises.” She said, “May it be came to us in our flesh, laid him- Directory

Bible Baptist Church 443-2144 Sunday School: 10 a.m./Worship: 11 a.m. Community Baptist Church-SBC 108 West 3rd Avenue • 443-5448 • Pastor Aaron Cooper Sunday Small Group Bible Study: 10 a.m. It’s Sunday Morning Worship: 11 a.m. Community United Methodist Church West 2nd Avenue & C Street • 443-2865 Pastor Charles Brower Sunday: Worship 11:00 am Monday: Thrift Shop 4:00 to 5:00 pm Tuesday & Thursday: Thrift Shop 7:00 to 8:30 pm Hoop Wednesday: Faith Followers 5:45 to 7:30 pm Nome Covenant Church 101 Bering Street • 443-2565 • Pastor Harvey Sunday: School 10 a.m./Worship 11 a.m. Wednesday: Youth Group 6:30 p.m. (443-8063 for more info) Friday: Community Soup Kitchen 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Time. Our Savior Lutheran Church 5th Avenue & Bering • 443-5295 Sunday: Worship 11 a.m.. on’t miss a minute as Nome Nanook Handicapped accessible ramp: North side D basketball comes your way on River of Life Assembly of God 405 W. Seppala • 443-5333 Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 a.m. KICY AM-850. Brought to you by Last Sunday of each month Worship: 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Worship: 7:00 p.m. Lewis & Thomas, Attorneys at Law, The A/C Value For more information contact Pastor Austin Jones Center, Bering Air, Nome Outfitters, Hanson’s Safeway, The Nome St. Joseph Catholic Church Corner of Steadman & W. King Place • 443-5527 Weekend Masses: Saturday 5:30 p.m./Sunday 10:30 a.m. Community Center’s Tobacco Control Program, Nome Joint Utility Weekday Masses: Mon. & Tue. 9:00 a.m., Thur. 12:10 p.m. System and Tundra Toyo. Don’t get too far away from a radio this Friday Hospital Mass: 12:10 p.m. (NSRH Meditation Room) Patients going to ANMC and want to see a Catholic priest please call Fr. season! Or, listen on-line at www.kicy.org. Brunet, OMI: cell 907-441-2106 or Holy Family Cathedral (907) 276-3455 Seventh-Day Adventist Icy View • 443-5137 Saturday Sabbath School: 10 a.m. Saturday Morning Worship: 11 a.m. Nome Church of the Nazarene 3rd Avenue & Division Street • 443-4870 AM-850 Pastor Dan Ward Sunday Prayer 9:30 a.m. • Sunday School: 10 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship: 11 a.m. 2.25.15 20 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 THE NOME NUGGET

Photo by Diana Haecker SECOND GRADE CHOIR— Ron Horner directs the second grade choir during the Christmas Concert at the Nome Elementary School. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Deadline is noon Monday •(907) 443-5235 • Fax (907)443-5112 • e-mail [email protected] Employment Legals Classifieds

ten years. administers the policies of the City Council and su- FOR SALE— Premium goose down Eddie Bauer pervises department directors and City office staff. parkas with fur trim hood, new made in Canada, Native preference per Public Law 93-638 One man’s small at $350; one man’s large at PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS The City of Nome $400. Call Joe 801-580-1359. A full copy of the job descriptions and an employ- A Bachelor’s degree in business of public admin- 12.24 ment application can be obtained from the Nome istration or a closely related field from an accred- Eskimo Community Website www.necalaska.org ited college or university; proven and WANTED – Mark Knapp at The Cutting Edge in or from the Nome Eskimo Community Office at demonstrated executive level management expe- NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Fairbanks is buying legal ancient walrus ivory, Nome Eskimo Community is recruiting for two 200 West 5th Avenue. rience with a minimum five (5) years of experi- musk ox horn, mammoth ivory and teeth. (2) positions located in Nome, AK: ence. A combination of education, training, and Conditional Use Permit Very good prices. For any questions, please contact the Human experience may be substituted (at the City Coun- 907-452-7477, [email protected]. • Executive Assistant: non-exempt, regular full- Resources Manager, Cathy Lyon, at 907-443- cil’s discretion) for the preferred qualifications. Ap- A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE CONDUCTED 12.3-1.28 time position. The pay range is $22.43/hour - 9131 or by email to [email protected] plicant must possess strong organizational and DURING A SPECIAL MEETING OF THE NOME $25.24/hour. This position is open until filled. 12.24 planning skills. Experience working within a di- PLANNING COMMISSION TO SEEK COM- • ICWA Specialist II: non-exempt, regular full-time verse multicultural community is a plus. MENTS ON THE FOLLOWING: position. The pay range is $22.78/hour - $25.63/hour. This position is open until January SALARY Approval of a Conditional Use Permit for North- 08, 2016. $60,000-$70,000 annually and a potential for wind Ministries to operate a Commercial Business POSITION AVALIABLE housing. Actual salary will be based on qualifica- retailing various hardware supplies at 405 East To ensure the safety of children who receive serv- CITY MANAGER tions and experience. 5th Ave., which is currently zoned for Residential ices, Nome Eskimo Community will complete a The City of Unalakleet is accepting applications Use. Criminal History Background Check on all appli- for the position of City Manager. The Manager is TO APPLY cants considered for the ICWA Specialist II posi- appointed by and reports to an elected seven (7) Interested persons should provide a letter of in- DATE: Monday, January 4, 2016 tion. member City Council and serves as the Chief Ad- terest and a resume showing complete education TIME: 5:30 P.M. ministrative Officer of the City. and job experience by mail to: Leona Gr- LOCATION: City Hall Chambers To be considered for employment, the report must ishkowsky, Mayor, PO Box 28, Unalakleet, AK 12.10-17-24 be free of crimes involving sexual assault or sex- JOB SUMMARY 99684; or email to [email protected]. Ques- ual abuse of a minor, unlawful exploitation of a The Manager is responsible to the City Council for tions can be directed to the City of Unalakleet at minor, indecent exposure, crimes of violence the administration of daily operations and man- 907-624-3531. EOE against persons, and must show that the applicant agers a staff of 20, providing municipal services has not been convicted of a felony within the past and enforcing local ordinances. The City Manager This position is open until filled, with the first Real Estate application review date of January 15, 2016.

All applications are subject to public disclosure. 12.17-24,1.7-14 :DQWWR+HOS0DNHD Nome Sweet Homes 'LIIHUHQFHLQWKH 907-443-7368 +HDOWKRIRXU 5HJLRQ" WE

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Photo by Nils Hahn Sitnasuak Native Corporation SKIJORING— Keith Conger and his daughter Mallory skijor with their dogs on the Iditarod trail on Sunday,  December 20. Notice of the 6SHFLDO Meeting of Shareholders • 7KXUVday, JDQXDU\ , 201 Koyuk Native Corporation • 10 a.m. P.O. Box 53050 • $ODVND1DWLYH+HULWDJH&HQWHU Koyuk, ALASKA 99753 +HULWDJH&HQWHU'ULYH Office (907) 963-2424 Fax: 963-3552 $QFKRUDJH$. BUSINESS CONDUCTED WILL INCLUDE: Store: 963-3551 • 3URSRVHG$PHQGPHQWWRWKH$UWLFOHVRI,QFRUSRUDWLRQWRHOLPLQDWHWKH XVHRIGLVFUHWLRQDU\SUR[LHVGXULQJ%RDUGHOHFWLRQV NOTICE OF KOYUK NATIVE CORPORATION • 3URSRVHG$PHQGPHQWWRWKH%\ODZVWRUHTXLUHWKH%RDUGWRDSSURYH ANNUAL SHAREHOLDER MEETING DOOHOLJLEOHFDQGLGDWHVIRULQFOXVLRQRQWKH%RDUGVROLFLWHGSUR[\ Any questions please contact 5HEHFFD1HDJOH, PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that the annual meeting of shareholders of Koyuk Shareholder 5HODWLRQV0DQDJHU, for more information at - or Native Corporation will be held on January 9, 2016, at 1:00 p.m., at the [email protected] Koyuk Community Hall, for the following purposes:

1. Election of five (5) Directors

and the transactions of such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

Building on our corporate strength and cultural identity, we shall assist our Shareholders to control our corporation and create our future. 11.12-26, 12.10-24 USDA Choice Beef Dakota Buffalo Bush Orders • Custom Cuts Meat Packs • Pork and Chicken       907-349-3556 • www.mrprimebeef.com Retail: 907-344-4066 • Wholesale: 907-349-3556 • Toll Free 800-478-3556        7521 Old Seward Highway, Ste.E • Anchorage, AK 99518 • Fax 907-522-2529

PLEASE                         !  " #$ %&$'   HELP  () *   (+  , "   "     ,  - *       ./&&   '/&&(                  Adopt a Pet                           or make your   (    ,  "  '/#&( *   /0                       donation !"##$%$            today! 1 ! !23 2 4&               ' AdoptDog afood, pet and cat get food, a FREE cat bag litter of anddog/cat other food donations when you adoptare a dog/cat. Dog food, cat food, cat litter and other donations are  alwaysalways welcome welcome at at thethe Nome Animal Animal Shelter! Shelter! $   ()*++#,   -   .   .  .     Nome Animal Control & Adopt-A-Pet /   443-8538443-5212 oror 443-5262 22 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 THE NOME NUGGET

THIRD GRADERS— Mr. Horner’s third grade choir performs during the Nome Elementary School Christmas Concert. Photo by Diana Haecker Seawall

NOME POLICE DEPARTMENT tion and transportation, which was demonstrated by standing and walking without im- 9:43 p.m., NPD received a report of a subject threatening to harm themselves within pediment. The male was released at the scene and no further action was required. a hotel on the west side of town. Upon arrival, the subject denied any thoughts or ac- MEDIA RELEASES 12/14/2015 through 12/20/2015 3:41 p.m., NPD received a report of an abandoned vehicle on private property on the tion reported and was found in the care of a sober family member. The sober family north side of town. The owner of the property was informed that they could have the member indicated they would call NPD if any further assistance was required. Disclaimer: This is a record of activity. The issuance of citations or the act of ar- vehicle towed, as it was currently on their property. No further action was required. 9:51 p.m., NPD officers, while on routine patrol, observed a vehicle traveling on the rest does not assign guilt to any identified party. 4:38 p.m., NPD responded to a residence on the east side of town for the report of west side of town without an operable taillight. A traffic stop was conducted and the During this period there were 152 calls for service received at the Nome Police an intoxicated female refusing to leave the residence. Upon arrival, the female was driver was found to possess all the current paperwork required. The driver was issued Communications Center. 74 (49 percent) involved alcohol. contacted and left upon request. The female was then provided transportation to a a verbal warning for the equipment violation and was released at the scene without There were 16 arrests made with 16 (100 percent) alcohol related. local hotel, where she indicated she had a room paid for. No further enforcement ac- further incident. NPD responded to 19 calls reporting intoxicated persons needing assistance. tion was required. 9:59 p.m., NPD officers observed a vehicle traveling on the west side of town with One was remanded to AMCC as a protective hold; and three remained at the hos- 5:58 p.m., NPD officers responded to a hotel on the west side of town for the report only one operable headlight. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was found to pital for medical evaluation/treatment. of an unruly, intoxicated female refusing to leave the premises after multiple requests have all the current documentation required and was given a verbal warning for the There were 12 ambulance calls and no fire calls during this period. by employees. Upon arrival, Officers contacted Marlene Patkotak, who was still on the equipment violation. No further enforcement action was required. premises. Patkotak was subsequently placed under arrest for Criminal Trespass in the 11:06 p.m., NPD received a report of an impaired driver on the west side of town. *************************************************************************************************** Second Degree and was later remanded to AMCC, where she was held on $250 bail. The vehicle was located a short time later and a traffic stop was conducted. The driver, 8:09 p.m., NPD CSO responded to the east side of town for the report of a loose dog identified as Jason Chabot, was found to be sober, but was operating the vehicle with Monday, December 14, 2015 getting into trash cans. The animal’s owner was contacted and found to be unaware that expired registration showing on the vehicle. Chabot was issued a citation for Expired 12:34 a.m., NPD officers were dispatched to a residence on the east side of town for his dog had gotten loose. The dog was returned to the owner, who then cleaned up the Registration and was issued a verbal warning regarding obtaining an Alaska Driver Li- the report of a noise complaint. Upon arrival, officers contacted the subjects in ques- mess made by the dog. No damage was reported and the owner was advised of the cense after residing within the state longer than sixty days in the state. tion and they were warned for the level of noise. No further action was required. city ordinances regarding pets. 11:21 p.m., NPD CSO, while on routine patrol, observed a person lying on the 5:21 p.m., NPD received a 911 hang up call. The owner of the number was con- 8:32 p.m., NPD responded to a residence on the west side of town for the report of ground on the west side of town. Contact was made with the subject, who was provided tacted and explained that the phone had accidentally been dialed while in a pocket. a subject intoxicated while on current conditions of probation that prohibited the con- transportation to the NEST Shelter for the evening. No further action was required. No further action was required. sumption of alcohol. Upon arrival, officers contacted John Saclamana, who was found 11:52 p.m., NPD officers responded to a building on the west side of town for the re- 5:53 p.m., NPD officers responded to a residence on the west side of town for the to be intoxicated. Saclamana was subsequently placed under arrest for Probation Vi- port of an individual causing a disturbance. Upon arrival officers observed the person, report of a female requiring assistance. Upon arrival and further investigation, it was olation and was remanded to AMCC, where he was held without bail. identified as John Penetac, still actively disturbing other persons on the premises. revealed that the female was the victim of an assault occurring earlier in the week. A 9:27 p.m., NPD officers observed a vehicle operating with expired registration show- Penetac was subsequently placed under arrest for Disorderly Conduct and was trans- suspect has been identified and the investigation is ongoing. ing on the license plate on the west side of town. A traffic stop was conducted and the ported to the Norton Sound Regional Hospital for medical clearance. While at the hos- 9:51 p.m., NPD received a report of an assault occurring on the west side of town driver, identified as Melinda Erickson, was unable to provide current proof of insurance. pital, Penetac again created unreasonably loud noise and was charged with an the previous evening. A report was taken and the investigation is ongoing. Erickson was issued two citations; one for Expired Registration and another for Failure additional count of Disorderly Conduct. He was later remanded to AMCC, where he 11:14 p.m., NPD responded to the west side of town for the report of an intoxicated to Provide Proof of Insurance. She was then released at the scene without further was held on $500 bail. female that required assistance. Upon arrival the female was contacted and identified issue. 11:55 hours, NPD officers, while on routine patrol, observed a vehicle traveling on as Justina Adams, who was found to have an active Bench Warrant, as well as current 9:57 p.m., while on routine security checks, NPD CSO observed a male staggering the west side of town without a headlight illuminated. A traffic stop was conducted and conditions of release that prohibited the consumption of alcohol. Adams was placed on the street. The male was contacted and provided transportation to the NEST Shel- the driver was found to have all the required documentation. The driver was issued a under arrest and was remanded to AMCC for Violating her Conditions of Release and ter, where he was left in their care. While en route to the NEST, another intoxicated in- verbal warning for the equipment violation and was released at the scene without fur- the active warrant. She was held without bail. dividual was observed to have fallen to the ground. Contact was made with the subject, ther incident. 11:58 p.m., NPD responded to a disturbance call at a residence on the east side of identified as June Koonuk, who was found to be on current release conditions that pro- town. Upon arrival, contact was made with the reported suspect, who was subse- hibit the consumption of alcohol. Koonuk was placed under arrest for Violating her Sunday, December 20, 2015 quently transported to the Norton Sound Regional Hospital for medical clearance and Conditions of Release and was later remanded to AMCC, where she was held on 1:09 a.m., NPD responded to the west side of town for the report of two individuals later remanded to AMCC on a T-47 Hold. $1,000 bail. fighting in the street. Upon arrival, both parties were contacted and indicated they were 10:16 p.m., NPD CSO responded to a business on the east side of town for the re- wrestling and that no assault had occurred. Both parties were requested to take their Tuesday, December 15, 2015 port of an intoxicated male trying to sleep inside the building. The male was contacted, wrestling match to a more appropriate venue and were released at the scene. No fur- 6:05 a.m., NPD responded to a residence on the west side of town for the report of refused medical attention, and was provided transportation to his residence, where he ther action was required. a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival and further investigation, the three persons pres- was left with sober family members. 1:26 a.m., NPD was requested to conduct a welfare check on a child that was re- ent in the home had been involved in a physical altercation, with one of the suspects 11:03 p.m., NPD CSO responded to the west side of town for the report of an intox- portedly in a home without a sober caregiver. While en route to the residence, a sub- fleeing prior to officers’ arrival. A report will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Of- icated male down on the ground. The male was contacted and observed falling to the ject was contacted with a child that was later identified to be the subject of the welfare fice for review and disposition. ground. Due to the manner in which he fell, the Nome Volunteer Ambulance Depart- check. The adult subject carrying the child was observed to be sober and the report- 10:52 a.m., NPD officers responded to a motor vehicle collision on the west side of ment was dispatched to the scene. The male was transported to the Norton Sound ing party was informed of the child’s location. town. Officers arrived and facilitated the exchange of insurance information. No injuries Reginal Hospital via Ambulance for medical evaluation. 1:27 a.m., NPD officers were informed by NPD CSO of a vehicle traveling on the were reported and the damage to the involved vehicles was minor. No further en- 11:21 p.m., NPD officers were dispatched to a parking lot on the east side of town west side of town without headlight illuminated and the driver of the vehicle was a sub- forcement action was required. for the report of several juveniles engaged in a fight. Upon arrival, no altercation was ject whom had been contacted earlier and found to be intoxicated. Contact was made 3:06 p.m., a citizen arrived at NPD to report an assault that occurred several days observed, but two juveniles were contacted in the immediate area and were found to with the driver of the vehicle, identified as Michael Hahn Jr, who was found to be too prior at a residence on the east side of town. A report was taken for the incident and be intoxicated. The two juveniles were issued Minor Consuming Alcohol citations and impaired to drive and whose license was currently suspended. Hahn was subsequently the investigation is ongoing. each was transported to their respective residences and left in the care of sober fam- placed under arrest for Driving Under the Influence, Driving While License Suspended, 8:03 p.m., NPD received a report of property being stolen from a residence on the ily members. No further action was required. Misconduct Involving Weapons in the Fourth Degree and two counts of Reckless En- east side of town. A report was taken and the investigation is ongoing. dangerment. He was later remanded to Anvil Mountain Correctional Center, where he 8:38 p.m., NPD received a report of a person threatening to harm themselves. Upon Saturday, December 19, 2015 was held on $3,000 bail. arrival, the person confirmed the threats and was subsequently transported to the Nor- 12:11 a.m., NPD CSO responded to a business on the west side of town for the re- 2:41 a.m., NPD responded to the front of a business on the west side of town for the ton Sound Regional Hospital, where they were left in the care of Behavioral Health port of an intoxicated male passed out inside the building. The male was contacted, report of an intoxicated subject falling and hitting his head. The subject, identified as Services. refused medical treatment and was provided transportation to his residence, where he Peter Olanna, was also found to be on current Conditions of Probation and Release that was left with sober family members. both prohibited the consumption of alcohol. A summons request for the violations will Wednesday, December 16, 2015 12:43 a.m., NPD received a report of a juvenile that was refusing to return home for be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for review. 2:06 a.m., NPD officers were dispatched to an apartment complex on the west side the evening from an undisclosed location. Officers conducted a thorough search 3:41 a.m., NPD responded to a business on the west side of town for the report of of town for the report of a possible domestic disturbance. Upon arrival and further in- throughout town and eventually located the juvenile at a friend’s residence. The juve- an intoxicated female that required assistance. Upon arrival, the reporting party iden- vestigation, Ernest Butler was found to have injured another member of the household. nile was then transported home and was left in the care of their guardian. No further tified the female in question, who was observed challenging another subject to fight. Butler was placed under arrest for Assault in the Third Degree DV, Assault in the Fourth action was required. Responding officers intervened to stop the altercation, at which time the female, iden- Degree DV, Interfering with a Report of Domestic Violence and Probation Violation. He 1:41 a.m., NPD received a report of a subject receiving threatening text messages tified as Jolene Kuzuguk, was placed under arrest for Disorderly Conduct. Kuzuguk was later remanded to AMCC, where he was held without bail. from a family member while residing outside of city limits. The reporting party was was then transported to AMCC, where she was held on $250 bail. given information regarding protective orders and was informed to call NPD if there 3:52 a.m. NPD officers, while on routine patrol, observed a vehicle parked along the Thursday, December 17, 2015 were any further issues. roadway on the north side of town. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver provided 12:25 a.m., NPD received a report of a domestic disturbance at a residence on the 2:44 a.m., NPD responded to a report of a juvenile attempting to harm themselves all the current information required. Investigation revealed that the driver had stopped east side of town. Upon arrival, a juvenile in the home was found to have broken a win- at a residence on the west side of town. Upon arrival, officers contacted the juvenile the vehicle to change the music selection rather than doing so while in motion. The dow in the house after a verbal argument. The issue was resolved by separation and who confirmed the original report. The juvenile was transported to the Norton Sound drive was released at the scene and no further action was required. a report for Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree will be sent to the Juvenile Proba- Regional Hospital, where they were left in the care of Behavioral Health Services. No 7:10 a.m., NPD officers responded to a residence on the east side of town for the tion Office for disposition. further action was required. report of an assault. Upon arrival and further investigation, Denny Martin was found to 3:19 p.m., NPD received a report of a possible sexual abuse of a minor. The in- 8:17 a.m., NPD officers responded to a hotel on the west side of town for a request have injured another member of the household while intoxicated. Martin was also found vestigation is ongoing. for assistance from an intoxicated female. The female, identified as Courtney Amak- to be on current Conditions of Probation that prohibited the consumption of alcohol. 8:24 p.m., NPD responded to an apartment complex on the west side of town for the toolik, was transported to the Norton Sound Regional Hospital for medical evaluation. Martin was subsequently placed under arrest for Assault in the Fourth Degree, DV and report of a juvenile trespassing within one of the units. Upon arrival, the juvenile left on While there, Amaktoolik spat on the responding officer and was subsequently placed Probation Violation and was later remanded to AMCC, where he was held without bail. request and was later served a formal trespass notice from the property owners. No under arrest for Harassment in the First Degree. She was later remanded to AMCC, 9:28 a.m., NPD responded to the north edge of town for the report of a domestic further action was required. where she was held on $500 bail. dispute. Upon arrival, the issue was deemed to be verbal in nature, which was re- 9:52 p.m., NPD officers responded to a building on the west side of town for the re- 1:59 p.m., NPD officers responded to a business on the west side of town for the re- solved by separation of the two involved parties. No further enforcement action was port of an intoxicated male causing a disturbance. Upon arrival, the male was identi- port of an intoxicated male that was refusing to leave the premises. Upon arrival, the required. fied as Terrence Merculieff, who was still causing a disturbance. Merculieff was placed male had already vacated the business and was given a verbal warning for Criminal 6:28 p.m., NPD CSO responded to the west side of town for the report of an intoxi- under arrest for Disorderly Conduct and was later remanded to AMCC, where he was Trespass. No further action was required. cated male down on the ground. Upon contact the male was observed sitting up and held on $250 bail. 3:30 p.m., while routine patrol on the west side of town, NPD CSO was flagged down standing under his own power. The male refused medical attention and transporta- by concerned citizens regarding two intoxicated males that appeared to be sleeping tion. He was released at the scene and no further action was needed. Friday, December 18, 2015 outside. The two males were contacted and observed to be alert and awake. One 8:50 p.m., NPD was informed of a disturbance occurring outside of town, in which 1:56 a.m., NPD responded to an apartment complex on the west side of town for the male declined medical treatment or transportation and was released at the scene. The the Alaska State Troopers were notified. AST called back a short time later informing report of a disturbance. Upon arrival, the issue was found to be a verbal argument be- second male complained of a preexisting medical issue and was transported to the NPD that the suspect, identified as Stephen Sherman, was on his way back toward tween two tenants within the same unit. Both persons were given a verbal warning for Norton Sound Regional Hospital at his request. No further action was required. town and had violated his Conditions of Release by leaving his third-party custodian at Disorderly Conduct and separated within the home. 3:55 p.m., NPD CSO responded to the west side of town for the report of an intoxi- the residence. NPD officers located Sherman a short time later, where he was placed 7:59 a.m., NPD was dispatched to the north edge of town for the report of a motor cated male needing assistance. The male was contacted, refused medical attention. under arrest and was remanded to AMCC for Violating his Conditions of Release, where vehicle collision involving three vehicles. Upon arrival and further investigation, the The male provided an address he was able to stay at for the night and was provided he was held on $1,000 bail. AST took over the remainder of the investigation. road conditions were deemed to be the primary cause of the collision and officers fa- transportation to the home, where he was left in the care of sober family members. No 10:04 p.m., NPD CSO, while conducting a security check on a building on the west cilitated the exchange of information between the drivers involved. No citations were further action was needed. side of town, observed one of the occupants causing a disturbance inside. The sub- issued, no injuries were reported and the vehicles involved were towed from the scene 4:51 p.m., NPD officers responded to a report of a juvenile threatening to assault an- ject was issued a verbal warning for Disorderly Conduct and was left on the premises. to clear the roadway. other juvenile. Upon arrival, the suspect had fled the scene and contact was made No further action was required. 9:13 a.m., NPD received a report of stolen property being sold online by a third party. with the reported victim. A report of the incident will be forwarded to the Juvenile Pro- 10:14 p.m., NPD officers responded to a report of two individuals causing a distur- The investigation into the theft and selling of the stolen property is ongoing. bation Office for disposition. bance on the west side of town. Upon arrival, officers contacted the two individuals, 11:33 a.m., NPD received a report from a citizen that they had been assaulted three 7:15 p.m., NPD CSO responded to the east side of town for the report a dog biting identified as Homer Wongittilin and Nolan Iknokinok; both were also found to be intox- days prior on the west side of town. A suspect has been identified and the investiga- a human. Investigation revealed that the dog bit a member of the household. The icated. Wongittilin was also found to be on current probation that prohibited the con- tion is ongoing. wounds were observed were superficial and the owner will provide vaccination paper- sumption of alcohol and is currently under the age of 21. He was placed under arrest 2:57 p.m., NPD officers were dispatched to an apartment complex on the west side work to NPD. On 12-20-15 the owner provided the paperwork that showed the animal for Habitual Minor Consuming Alcohol and Probation Violation and was later remanded of town to complete a writ of assistance for an eviction of a tenant. Upon arrival, the up to date on all vaccinations. to AMCC, where he was held without bail. Iknokinok required medical treatment, began manager of the property agreed to give the tenant until Monday to vacate the resi- 8:31 p.m., NPD officers responded to the Norton Sound Regional Hospital for the re- spitting on responding volunteers and officers. Iknokinok, once medically cleared, was dence. No further action was required. port of a patient causing a disturbance within the Emergency Room. Upon arrival, the arrested and remanded to AMCC for Harassment in the First Degree and was held on 3:11 p.m., NPD CSO responded to the west side of town for the report of an intoxi- patient was contacted and given a verbal warning for Disorderly Conduct. No further $500 bail. cated male down on the ground. The male was contacted and refused medical atten- action was required. Court

Week ending 12/18 1°; Filed by the DAs Office 12/14/15. Surcharge: $50 shall be paid through this court within 10 days; Probation until 12/18/16; Civil State of Alaska v. Katherine Iyapana (3/10/74); 2NO-15-634CR CTN 002: Harass- Shall comply with all court orders by the deadlines stated; Subject to warrantless arrest Minor Party v. Kakoona, Ward; Civil Protective Order ment 2; Date of Violation: 10/25/15; CTN Chrgs Dismissed: 001, 003; 60 days, 0 days for any violation of these conditions of probation; Shall commit no violations of law, as- Kakoona, Ward v. Minor Party; Civil Protective Order suspended; Initial Jail Surcharge: $50 per case; Due now to AGs Office, Anchorage; Po- saultive or disorderly conduct, or domestic violence; Shall not possess, consume or Small Claims lice Training Surcharge: $50 shall be paid through this court within 10 days. buy alcohol, and any state ID issued under AS 18.65.310 must list the buying restric- No current claims filed (start 2NO-15-00054SC) State of Alaska v. Katherine Iyapana (3/10/74); 2NO-15-738CR Notice of Dismissal; tion until the restriction expires; Shall not have alcohol in her residence; Shall not enter Criminal Charge 001: VOCR; Filed by the DAs Office 12/14/15. or remain on the premises of any bar or liquor store; Subject to warrantless breath test- State of Alaska v. Terry Ludwig (1/18/46); Dismissal; Driving Without A License; State of Alaska v. Courtney Amaktoolik (12/5/90); Assault 4; Date of Violation: ing by any peace officer with probable cause to believe defendant has consumed al- Filed by the DAs Office 12/16/15. 9/25/15; Time served; Must continue applications for residential alcohol treatment; Ini- cohol; Alcohol/Mental Health assessment by 2/18/16; Participate in and complete State of Alaska v. Melanie Dawn Kulukhon (4/14/87); Dismissal; Criminal Trespass tial Jail Surcharge: $50 per case; Due now to AGs Office, Anchorage; Police Training recommended treatment and aftercare. Trooper Beat

Any charges reported in these press releases are merely accusations and the defen- on December 12, at approximately 9:57 p.m., Soxie called then and stated he had re- Next of kin have been notified. Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor. This in- dants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. turned to Unalakleet after meeting the acquaintance. The same family member missed vestigation is continuing. a telephone call from Soxie during the early morning hours of December 13. After not On December 10, the Alaska State Troopers received a report of an Alaska resident vi- hearing from Soxie again that day, family members searched the village and reported On December 14, AST in Nome received a report of an assault in Stebbins. Investi- olating probation in Hawaii. Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Randall him missing to troopers when he was not located. Unalakleet Search and Rescue was gation into the matter revealed that Brendan Pete, 19, of Stebbins, assaulted a family Willoya, 27, of Golovin. Willoya was on probation for a stalking order violation. Willoya not able to search surrounding trails that evening due to inclement weather and infor- member. The family member received minor injuries. Pete was arrested and charged was arrested on December 16, after he returned to Golovin. Willoya was remanded to mation on hand indicated he was in Unalakleet. Unalakleet SAR conducted a search with Assault 4, domestic violence. the Anvil Mountain Correctional Center. Bail was set at $20,000.00. inside Unalakleet with no success. On December 14, searchers from Unalakleet SAR sent a team on the trails surrounding the community. At approximately 10:49 a.m., AST On December 16, at 11:57 a.m., AST received a report of damaged property in Gam- On December 13, at approximately 10:28 p.m., Nome AST received a report that Harold received notification from the search party that they had found the body of Harold Soxie bell. Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Eli Apatiki, 24, of Gambell, for crim- Soxie, 36, of Unalakleet, was missing. Investigation revealed that the day prior, Soxie approximately five (5) miles North of Unalakleet on an established trial. Soxie’s ATV was inal mischief 5. Apatiki was remanded to AMCC. reportedly drove north on an ATV to meet an acquaintance near Egavik. Afterward, located approximately 2.1 miles further northeast of his body. There is no evidence of Soxie reportedly headed back toward Unalakleet. A family member had reported that foul play. The body will be transported to the State Medical Examiner for an autopsy. THE NOME NUGGET THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 23 SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF NOME

Alaska Court System’s Family Law Self-Help Center

A free public service that answers questions & provides forms about family cases including divorce, dissolution, custody and visitation, child support and paternity. www.state.ak.us/courts/selfhelp.htm (907) 264-0851 (Anc) (866) 279-0851 (outside Anc)

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ALASKA Your ad here POISON CONTROL Call us (907)443-5235 or email: [email protected] 1-800-222-1222 Veterinarians in Anchorage: W,KE/yK&&^,KZD/E/E' ,ŝƌŝŶŐĨŽƌƚŚĞϮϬϭϱ^ĞĂƐŽŶĂŶĚĞLJŽŶĚ͘KīƐŚŽƌĞĂŶĚKŶƐŚŽƌĞ'ŽůĚDŝŶŝŶŐ KƉĞƌĂƟŽŶƐ͘^ĞĞŬŝŶŐ͗^ŬŝůůĞĚ͕ůŝĐĞŶƐĞĚ͕ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĚĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚŽƉĞƌĂƚŽƌƐ Southside Animal Hospital Dimond Animal Hospital ǁŚŽŚĂǀĞƐŝŐŶŝĮĐĂŶƚŵĞĐŚĂŶŝĐĂůŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞĂŶĚƉŚLJƐŝĐĂůĂďŝůŝƚLJŝŶĂĚĚŝƟŽŶ (907) 345-1905 (907) 562-8384 ƚŽŽƉĞƌĂƟŶŐƐŬŝůůƐ͘džƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĚĐĞƌƟĮĞĚǁĞůĚĞƌƐͬĨĂďƌŝĐĂƚŽƌƐĂŶĚ,ĞĂǀLJ Open Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. open 24/7 ƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚDĞĐŚĂŶŝĐƐ͘KƚŚĞƌƌĞůĞǀĂŶƚƐŬŝůůƐƐĞƚƐŝŶĐůƵĚĞ͗DĂƌŝŶĞ and Saturday 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. ŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ͕ďŽĂƟŶŐ͕ĐƌĂŶĞƌŝŐŐŝŶŐ͕ŐĞŶĞƌĂůĐŽŶƐƚƌƵĐƟŽŶŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ͕ƉůƵŵďͲ ŝŶŐ͕ĞůĞĐƚƌŝĐĂůǁŽƌŬ͕ĞŶŐŝŶĞĞƌŝŶŐĂŶĚŵĂĐŚŝŶŝŶŐ͘WŚŽĞŶŝdžKīƐŚŽƌĞDŝŶŝŶŐŝƐ Call Everts in Anchorage for a Quote Number so you can send your pet round trip for $50 Ă^ĂĨĞƚLJ&ŝƌƐƚĞŵƉůŽLJĞƌ͘ůůĂƉƉůŝĐĂŶƚƐĂƌĞƐƵďũĞĐƚƚŽďĂĐŬŐƌŽƵŶĚĐŚĞĐŬƐ for medical with the animal care program. The number is (866) 242-0009. ĂŶĚŵƵƐƚƐƵďŵŝƚĂƌĞƐƵŵĞĂůŽŶŐǁŝƚŚƌĞĨĞƌĞŶĐĞƐŝŶŽƌĚĞƌƚŽďĞĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌĞĚ͘ tĞůŽŽŬĨŽƌǁĂƌĚƚŽŚĞĂƌŝŶŐĨƌŽŵLJŽƵ͊sĞƚĞƌĂŶƐĂŶĚ^ŽďĞƌDĞŶĂŶĚtŽŵͲ Pet Express is (907) 562-7333, they will transport the animal to the hospital. ĞŶtĞůĐŽŵĞ͊WůĞĂƐĞĨĂdžĂůůŝŶƋƵŝƌĞƐƚŽϳϯϮ-ϯϵϬ-ϮϴϯϯŽƌĞŵĂŝů͗ Quote Number: Need to call that morning or day before. It’s necessary to keep track of costs. ŽƉĞƌĂƟŽŶƐΛŶŽŵĞŽĐĞĂŶŐŽůĚ͘ĐŽŵ͘ 24 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 LOCAL THE NOME NUGGET Nome Elementary School Holiday Music Program

Photo by Diana Haecker SIXTH GRADE BAND— Brandon Smith performs with the sixth grade band during the NES Concert.

Photo by Keith Conger DUET— Makayla Marble, left, and Brittney Goldy played a duet dur- ing last week's NBHS Christmas Concert. Photo by Diana Haecker PIANIST— Kathy Horner played the piano for the classes during the NES Holiday Music Program.

Photo by Diana Haecker DIRECTOR— Ron Horner directed the performances by the different grades during the NES Holiday Music Program.

Photo by Diana Haecker GOLDEN RIBBON, SILVER BOW— Kristianna Piscoya from Mrs. Erikson’s second grade class performs “Golden Ribbon, Silver Bow” at the NES Holiday Music Program.

Photo by Diana Haecker VIOLINE ANGEL— Angel Ambrose performed a violin solo under the watchful eye of music director Ron Horner during the NES Concert.