KBC NewsRoom

10/22/11 AFN Newscast - Sen. Lisa Murkowski addressed Alaska Federation of Natives Convention; Speakers describe power of Native corporations, importance of subsistence, and say the State of Alaska refusal to recognize tribes is a mistake

Anchorage, AK (2012-01-30) U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski says Alaska Native votes and support of her campaign set a new benchmark for all Native Americans. North Slope Borough Mayor Edward Itta describes for-profit Native corporations are economic and political powerhouses, and Alaska Natives need to better communicate the importance of subsistence. Former Native corporation president and CEO Roy Huhndorf says all Alaskans would benefit if the state recognized tribal status. Delegates will vote on resolutions on Saturday.

10/21/11 Newscast - The Alaska Federation Convention starts with a keynote address by Iditarod Sleddog Race champion Inupiaq Eskimo John Quniac Baker; AFN President and CEO says Natives face federal budget cuts and challenges to subsistence

Anchorage, AK (2012-01-30) The AFN Convention heard an inspiring talk by Iditarod champ John Baker, Inupiaq of Kotzebue. AFN President and CEO Julie Kitka says unity is needed to face challenges. A panel describes ways to build unity. AFN participants say education is important. Tribes and corporations need to respect roles of each and work to strengthen one another. And 85% prefer Sailor Boy Pilot Bread over Spam.

10/20/11 Newscast - More than 1,000 Alaska Natives gathered for the Elders and Youth Conference; Annual Alaska Federation of Natives Convention to begin amid talk of differences between tribes and for-profit Native corporations

Anchorage, AK (2012-01-30) The annual Elders and Youth Conference featured inspirational speakers and workshops. The theme of the 2011 Alaska Federation of Natives Convention getting underway is unity. Participants expect to discuss differences between tribes and corporations created under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. They'll also hear from Alaska Native speakers, including John Baker, 2011 Iditarod Sleddog Race winner, and enjoy an arts and crafts fair and dance performances.