Last week KDLG spoke with many of you to see what's on your mind ahead of Wednesday's visit. Some told us you were excited and proud to have the President in Dillingham, while quite a few have grumbled about the hassle of the trip during the fall hunting season. A few have a laundry list of issues they want the President to do something about, and others say they just want the chance to shake hands with Mr. Obama.
The White House has said the purpose of the trip around Alaska is to call attention to climate change, and it appears likely the President will deliver remarks from Kanakanak Beach, which has been eroding for decades.
What do local leaders hope he'll hear about or speak to during his three hours on the ground: Pebble, oil and gas in Bristol Bay, the fishery, climate change, economic security, Native issues?
What are some of the groups who've led the charge to oppose Pebble thinking about the message and the visit? KDLG's Dave Bendinger spoke with United Tribes of Bristol Bay's Alannah Hurley Friday morning.
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Others hope to share a different perspective with the President about federal intervention in the Bristol Bay watershed. Among them Lisa Reimers of the Iliamna Development Corporation, which wants to see Pebble's mine plan allowed to go through the NEPA permitting process. Reimers spoke with KDLG's Dave Bendinger Friday morning. Listen here.