JUNEAU DAILY NEWSMINUTE

By Chris Burns - kiny@ptialaska.net


Friday, January 12, 1996 (c) Alaska Juneau Communications

*The Eaglecrest Ski Area will open tomorrow morning at 9:00. In the latest season start in history, Eaglecrest has received just enough snow to allow skiers on the hill this weekend. Ski Area Manager Paul Swanson says the snow is very good on top, but there are many exposed hazards at the lower levels so skiers will have to be cautious. Yesterday was the deadline to begin allowing season lift pass holders a refund due to a late opening -- that, under new regulations adopted on Tuesday.
*Governor Tony Knowles is calling for cuts of $35-million in spending, and new taxes on tobacco, liquor, gasoline and income as a way to start closing the state budget gap. During his State of the Budget Address last night Knowles laid out his plan to balance the budget over the next 6 years. Juneau Representative Kim Elton says he's a little worried about parts of the plan which may force people to move out of the Capital City after they retire.
*Before the his budget speech last night, Republicans tried to override 5 of the Democratic Governor's vetoes of bills from the last legislative session. All 5 overrides failed.