The Nome nugget., 1959-01-19
Contributed

Contributed
 TNHE CITY OF NOME stands in A unique position among Alaskan ci- ties. It is the only incorporated muni- cipality of the first class in all of North western Alaska It is the communica- tions supply, transportation, court, law enforcement and hotel facility center for a tre mendous land area and has enjoyed this position for many years. With Statehood and antici pated influx of population into many of Alaska, it is possible that Nome's position could change and that other areas of Northwestern Alaska will take on increased importance in munications, supply, and other aspects of muni- cipal endeavor
 Point of Decision
 However, regardless of progress elsewhere Nome stands today at a point of decision for the future It has many natural advantages for it's development. Since the city has been the center of court and law enforcement for this area for many years, and facilities are available in Nome for the continuation of such, it may be assumed that these services will continue to be headquar- tered here. As supply base for wide area, and transportation center airport, steamship and lghterage facilities are more adequate in Nome than in any other sector of the State which the city serves Nome has, but perhaps for a limited time, the only permanent payroll in this vast geared to support a local population upon local industry The city enjoys international historical renown, and the ''Nome' is synonymous in the minds of most Americans with Alaska gold goldrush days, and Eskimos.
 Yet, with all these natural advantages the city, one of the few remaining in Alaska with oldtime Alaska charm finds itself fighting to hold it's own in modern and advancing world. This fight was reality under Territorial status and continues with Statehood, but weapons stronger now if will them. Facts indicate they have not been well used in the past. Future Resources May be Lost
 In recent years Nome has lost it's District Land Office it's area headquarters for the Bureau of Public Roads, it's only Nome-Seattle direct airline connection, it's local Armed Forces Radio Service outlet, to list a few of many. In the future it is possible that other major activities and resources of the community may be lost transferred to other parts of Alaska, and this type of change has already been suggested by the Public Administration Service to the forthcoming State Legislature And in the face of this, who carries the load in Nome?
 Mostly a small and diligent group of rnunity workers with faith in the future, who meet every Monday to attempt to face and solve the community's growing problems. This small group, rarely than twelve, gives amply of it's time effort and limited funds. It is the only organization in the city, except for the city gov ernment itself, whose functions lie elsewhere, that has the position authority and recognition to gain the ear and confidence of important officials and persons of other areas to present Nome'S case. Recognized and Heeded Voice
 This organization, and any city worth it's salt in the United States has one, is known as the Chamber of Commerce. For all it's importance as a recognized and needed voice by others of