April 11, 2012:

NORTH POLE, Alaska - Operators of the North Pole refinery say they are taking steps to idle their No. 1 crude oil refining unit, which will mean the loss of 35 to 40 jobs over five months. Flint Hills Resources Alaska says in an announcement it made the decision because of challenging economics and rising crude prices. The company says it will continue operating its remaining No. 2 crude unit, which makes jet fuel, gasoline, asphalt and specialty fuels for Alaska markets.

Vice President of Alaska Operations Mike Brose says in the announcement that the decision was difficult. He says affected employees will be able to apply for other positions within the company and those who are not hired will receive severance packages.

By The Associate Press