Katie Anastas, Alaska Public Media - Anchorage
Alaska News Nightly: Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Legislators consider renaming the Glenn Highway. Also, hospital officials look toward a return to normalcy following the omicron wave. And opponents of a state bill banning transgender athletes from girls' sports teams say much more is at stake.
Alaska News Nightly: Monday, March 7, 2022
A new bill aims to help retain village public safety officers in rural Alaska. Also, the state's Board of Game could change requirements for beaver traps. And the legal dispute over a toddler's burial place comes to a close in tribal court.
Alaska News Nightly: Friday, March 4, 2022
There are now no limits on campaign contributions in Alaska, unless lawmakers act. Also, advocates for police body cameras in Anchorage are frustrated by the slow pace of implementation. And how training for the Iditarod helped an ER nurse cope with a traumatic year.
Alaska News Nightly: Thursday, March 3, 2022
Lawmakers propose relief checks for Alaskans as fuel costs rise. Also, Gov. Mike Dunleavy announces plans for the state to divest from Russia. And the owner of a Mexican restaurant in Anchorage celebrates 50 years of business.
Alaska News Nightly: Wednesday, March 2, 2022
Washington changes course on a new gas tax. A COVID-positive Iditarod musher gets a four-time champion to take his place.
Nic Petit taps Jeff King for last-minute takeover of his Iditarod team after positive COVID test
Four-time Iditarod champion Jeff King says he took 30 minutes to think about it and then said yes.
Hatcher Pass Road to remain closed for at least 2 more weeks
The region only has one state-certified avalanche specialist, who is also responsible for Seward Highway.
Alaska News Nightly: Tuesday, March 1, 2022
Tensions with Russia hit Alaska’s economy. Also, a charter boat crew saves a man clinging to ice in Cook Inlet. And aggressive moose are putting Iditarod mushers on high alert.
Alaska News Nightly: Monday, February 28, 2022
Alaska senators say boosting local industries could help push back against Russia. Also, opponents to the Ambler Road raise concerns as the state seeks public comment. And new efforts to prevent suicide among Alaska's soldiers.
Alaska News Nightly: Friday, February 25, 2022
Alaskans with ties to Ukraine react to Russia's invasion. Also, a man shot at by Juneau police tells his side of the story. And one dog's journey from a shelter to the Iditarod.
‘You’re all on the same team’: Junior Native Youth Olympics bring Alaskan kids together
This year’s Junior Native Youth Olympic Games are virtual, with nearly 300 participants sending in videos of themselves competing in the events.
Alaska News Nightly: Thursday, February 24, 2022
As Washington state considers a new fuel tax, Alaska legislators prepare to retaliate. Also, authorities are investigating after a police officer shot at a man and struck two trailer homes in Juneau. And how telehealth companies and state legislation could improve access to birth control in Alaska.
Pediatricians say misinformation is a barrier to kids getting vaccinated
In Alaska, only 25% of kids aged 5 to 11 have received at least one shot. Nationally, 31% have.
Alaska News Nightly: Wednesday, February 23, 2022
Alaska's congressional delegation reacts to a setback on permission for the Ambler road. Legislators file bills targeting public school curricula. And a former Fairbanks resident studies the aurora from afar.
As COVID numbers drop, state health officials continue to urge vaccination
State epidemiologist Dr. Joe McLaughlin shared data that shows COVID infections carry much greater risk for heart problems than vaccinations.
Alaska kids’ COVID vaccination rates remain low. Pediatricians say misinformation is the challenge.
“A lot of people like to consult Dr. Google,” said an Anchorage pediatrician. “That can cause a lot of problems.”
Anchorage School Board approves contracts with district’s teachers, support personnel
The new contract for teachers includes salary increases and more opportunities for teachers to move across the pay scale.
Alaska News Nightly: Tuesday, February 22, 2022
Sen. Lisa Murkowski addresses state lawmakers. Also, how the foster care system can disproportionately impact Alaska Native families. And COVID-19 has made overcrowding in rural Alaska housing even more of a challenge.
Alaska News Nightly: Monday, February 21, 2022
State legislators consider bills that would rewrite the Permanent Fund Dividend formula. Also, a six-year legal battle over PFD fraud comes to a close. And pediatricians address misinformation about kids' COVID vaccines.
Alaska News Nightly: Friday, February 18, 2022
Lawmakers discuss fisheries disasters and how soon money could get to fishermen. The state's largest school district makes masking optional.