By Joaqlin Estus
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kbc/local-kbc-941487.mp3
December 19, 2010 – There isn't a safe way to get to and from Diomede, a village offshore from Wales, in Northwest Alaska and just a few miles from Russia. Diomede lacks an airstrip, unless villagers can build one on the frozen sea ice, which sometimes doesn't get thick enough, or is blown away from shore. The helicopter that brings the mail doesn't meet standards allowing passenger service. The Diomede Tribal Council wrote a letter to President Obama asking for subsidized passenger air service.
Oceania Cruises has added Alaska to its itinerary, which will help make up for the closure of Cruise West in September. Oceania's stops should help businesses that cater to visitors such as retailers and shore excursion operators.
Major Wayne Don, originally from Mekoryuk on Nunivak Island, is one of 44 people nationwide selected for an international leadership fellowship.