The Shumagin Current
Opinion and Editorial pieces reflect the personal views of the author. They are separate from straight reporting, verified data, and official source material.
Editorials on Alaska state policy and rural community life
Personal views on Alaska policy, rural opportunity, family, education, fisheries, and community life.
The views in this section are the personal views of Colten Mack and are separate from straight reporting by The Shumagin Current.
- OpinionOn Rural Education & Careers· 5 min read
Our Kids Should Not Need a One-Way Ticket to Build a Future
Rural and Alaska Native students deserve a path home with skills, mentors, and careers waiting.
Read editorial → - OpinionOn Rural Family Stability· 5 min read
Young Families Need More Than a Good Fishing Season to Stay
Keeping young families in rural Alaska is economic development — not charity.
Read editorial → - OpinionOn the Permanent Fund Dividend· 6 min read
The Permanent Fund Dividend Is a Promise to the People Who Make Alaska Home
The PFD should not be a leftover after every political fight in Juneau.
Read editorial → - OpinionOn State Revenue· 7 min read
Alaska Should Receive a Fair Contribution From Seasonal Resource Work
When substantial income is earned from Alaska resources and Alaska infrastructure, Alaska should receive a fair contribution.
Read editorial → - OpinionOn Alaska Native Languages· 4 min read
Language Is Not a Special Project
Unangam Tunuu and Alaska Native languages need stable, long-term funding — not another grant cycle.
Read editorial → - OpinionOn State Fiscal Policy· 5 min read
Resource Revenue Should Return to Rural Alaska
Alaska needs a transparent, dedicated rural resource-return fund — not another round of leftovers.
Read editorial →
The article below is a personal statement of political beliefs by Colten Mack. It is not a news report and does not speak for every person in the community.
Colten Mack is an educator, coach, Area M fisherman, father, and Sand Point community member. These articles reflect his personal views and experiences.