All the mines make the same promises.  The bigger, the more wining and dining is used.  It's a big pit, and someone will be left holding the empty pit.  The bottom line is the last word, not the written or bonded promise.  No sentiment will change it.  The Alaska Native Shareholders are not the owners, directors, or beneficiaries of Novagold, Barrick, or Donlin Gold.  Same old story - the rich, white, BIG PIT business has seen something we have, and has convinced us we're going to love what they give us in return for it - oh, and we'll have it back in a few years.  Some of us have bought/subscribed to their lies.