Summer 2021
Dear Shareholders,
Although our region experienced late snowfalls and below zero temperatures this spring, summer is finally here after what seemed like a very long winter. Residents in our region’s communities are already busy with spring subsistence harvest activities. It’s great to see our people posting on social media photos of themselves picking greens, sometimes later soaked in seal oil, which are then frozen and stored as a winter food source. Many hunters are also catching waterfowl, seals and marine mammals. Before we know it, it will be time for fishing and berry-picking, which we will use to add to our food storage for the winter months.
I am pleased with our region’s high vaccination rate and the many courageous steps our shareholders, descendants, and communities have taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Whether that be limiting travel, or encouraging friends, family and neighbors to get vaccinated, your efforts have undoubtedly saved lives. Many Elders in our region were gladly vaccinated when the vaccine shot became available. I commend Norton Sound Health Corporation for the tremendous work they did to curb the spread of COVID-19 in our region. They worked hard to ensure that those who wanted the vaccine could receive it. This included flying to our villages to administer the vaccine to those who wanted it. Unfortunately, vaccine hesitancy appears to now be an obstacle to herd immunity, which experts say is needed to overcome this pandemic.
BSNC VALUES STATEMENT
“Our values arise from the culture of
Our People. We honor our commitments. We
Empower one another. We respect diversity.
We lead with responsibility.”
I congratulate all of the 2021 graduate school, college and high school graduates and wish you all well in your future endeavors. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most 2021 graduates were not able to experience a typical in-person senior year and likely an in-person graduation ceremony. Despite the hardships caused by the restrictions imposed on you, I commend your hard work and dedication to achieving your educational goals, despite all the challenges this pandemic created. You are now entering a new and exciting stage in your life. Whatever you end up doing in your life, I hope your zest for learning, exploring, growing and challenging yourself to be your best remains a priority. You can change people’s lives, and even change the world. On behalf of BSNC, I send our congratulations and best wishes to you and your families.
I was saddened to learn of the passing of Elder Laura Evans. She is remembered for her caring nature, strong family values and willingness to open her home to anyone in need of a place to stay. On behalf of BSNC’s Board of Directors and staff, I express our sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.
I wish you all a safe and productive summer. Please continue to look after yourselves and your families. As always, quyaana for your continued support and involvement in your Corporation.
BSNC’s Nome and Anchorage offices continue to remain closed to visitors until further notice. Shareholders may contact BSNC’s Shareholder Department via phone, email and the MyBSNC shareholder portal. The Shareholder Department can be reached toll-free at 1-800-478-5079 or by email at shareholders@beringstraits.com. The health and safety of BSNC shareholders, employees, and the communities in which we work and live, continue to remain BSNC’s top priority.
Gail R. Schubert
BSNC President & CEO