Governor Proclaims November Alaska Native Heritage Month November was officially proclaimed Alaska Native Heritage Month by Gov. Tony Knowles, who made the announcement at last month's Alaska Federation of Natives Convention. The proclamation marks the first time the state of Alaska has set aside an entire month to honor and acknowledge Alaska Native heritage.   In his proclamation, Knowles stated, "Alaska Natives' contributions to Alaska do not end at the secular level. All Alaskans are richer spiritually because Alaska Natives have shared and continue to share culture and heritage through dance, artwork and the preservation of oral traditions."   Knowles' proclamation parallels a similar one made nationwide by President Clinton to honor the heritage of American Indians. In his proclamation of National American Indian Heritage Month, Clinton stated, "American Indians are not just an important part of our country's past; they are also a vital part of today's America and will play an even more important role in America's future."   The Regional CEOs Organization, which includes representatives from all 13 Alaska Native regional corporations, approached Knowles recently about the idea of issuing a proclamation.

"We are pleased that the state of Alaska made this official statement acknowledging the unique cultural heritage of Alaska Native people and our history as well as recognizing the contributions Native people have made to our state," said Vicki Otte, executive director of the organization.   New Rivers Press Calls for Submissions New Rivers Press is seeking submissions for a collection of Native American women's writing to be published in 2001. Short stories, memoirs, creative nonfiction prose and poetry written by Native American women will be considered for publication. The editors are seeking work that celebrates, records and explores Native American women's roles in the community. Of particular interest is writing that mirrors the oral tradition or uses Native language in accessible ways. Voices of all age groups and work that suggests the full range of Native women's experience are welcome, including their lives in the city and on the reservation, as parents and professionals, in tradition and transformation, and as keepers of culture and community.   Submissions should be printed on 8.5" x 11" paper. Send three copies of your submission, a short bio that describes your heritage and a SASE to: Editors Laura Tohe and Heidi Erdrich, New Rivers Press, 420 North Fifth St., Suite 938, Minneapolis, MN 55401. Only work that is previously unpublished will be considered. No

submissions will be returned and multiple submissions are welcomed. The deadline for entry is January 15, 2000.   North Country News Back On Air North Country News, the award-winning rural and Native news TV program, started its sixth season bringing Alaskans in-depth stories on Native and rural issues recently.   The program, broadcast from the Welcome House at Alaska Native Heritage Center and hosted by Inupiaq journalist Sharon McConnell, will air Fridays at 8 p.m. statewide on the Alaska Rural Communication Service. North Country News is also broadcast on cable in Anchorage (Channel 46), Fairbanks (Channel 19) and Juneau (Channel 51).   "North Country News remains committed to providing in-depth stories and interviews for our statewide audience," said director Jeff Silverman.