On Wednesday Sen. Ted Stevens conceded to Democrat Mark Begich, ending Steven’s four decade political career. Stevens’ re-election bid has been sprinkled with controversy, including a federal felony conviction. He stood trial on charges of failing to disclose gifts, including a sauna, from an oil service company and was convicted just days before the election. The total amount in gifts and home renovations that Set. Stevens had received was over $250,000.

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Climate  has caused profound changes in the Arctic ecosystem, most visibly in the extent and thickness of the sea ice. Ice-dependent species of marine mammals, such as polar bears, walruses, ringed and bearded seals, may be especially vulnerable to reductions in sea ice extent and thickness. Resting, molting, foraging and denning/pupping habitats are rapidly disappearing. It is reasonable to predict that populations of these ice-dependent species will undergo reductions in number and that individual health and body condition will be compromised. more »