Lori Townsend, Alaska Public Media
Lori Townsend is the news director and senior host for Alaska Public Media. You can send her news tips and program ideas for Talk of Alaska and Alaska Insight at ltownsend@alaskapublic.org or call 907-550-8452.
Tracking permafrost thaw will help Alaska communities better adapt to climate change | Alaska Insight
A new program called Permafrost Pathways has a dual aim of measuring greenhouse gas emissions and supporting community adaptation ideas.
Alaska law enforcement and health professionals take on fentanyl | Alaska Insight
Lori Townsend speaks to U.S. Attorney John Kuhn and Epidemiology Specialist Jessica Filley about the dangers of fentanyl and the work being done to help Alaskans find treatment for addiction.
Alaskans prepare for state’s first ranked choice election cycle | Alaska Insight
Lori Townsend talks to election officials to discuss the new Ranked Choice voting system.
How Basketball brings communities across Alaska together | Alaska Insight
Across the state, basketball serves as a healthy outlet for teens and a source of pride and socialization for communities in the winter. Lori Townsend speaks to players about the important cultural role basketball serves in rural communities in particular.
Alaska News Nightly: Tuesday, March 29, 2022
Alaska Congressman Don Young lies in state at the U.S. Capitol. Also, oil prices reshape the debate over state revenue and dividend payments. And the push for local input on changing derogatory place names.
An Alaska politics recap, from redistricting lawsuits to a Capitol COVID outbreak
The Alaska Supreme Court ruled on redistricting last week, the House plans to take up the budget in a few days — and there's yet another conflict about mask-wearing on the House floor.
Alaska News Nightly: Monday, March 28, 2022
Residents whose homes were cut off by an avalanche near Eagle River assess next steps. Also the Sitka Sound sac roe herring fishery gets underway. Plus new investors in a Wasilla grocery store chain means expansion.
Remembering Congressman Don Young’s legacy | Alaska Insight
Following Rep. Don Young's death, Alaskans and members of Congress are reflecting on his half-century political career.
Black in Alaska explores life and identity | Alaska Insight
A new project called Black in Alaska seeks to present a more complete picture of the lives and professions of Black Alaskans, with the aim of creating a more equitable future. Lori Townsend speaks with advisory committee member Bernard Gatewood and André Horton, one of the series subjects.
Mushers celebrate the 50th running of the Iditarod | Alaska Insight
The five-decade history of the Iditarod is a story filled with adventure, skill, triumph and lots of change, and it's best told by those who have experienced it, firsthand.
Talk to your Neighbor: Anchorage community members continue to encourage COVID-19 vaccination | Alaska Insight
On this episode of Alaska Insight, hear from your neighbors about why they chose to get vaccinated or not.
Housing providers search for solutions to overcrowding in rural Alaska | Alaska Insight
Alaska Insight host, Lori Townsend, talks to experts about rural housing challenges.
New Alaska documentary examines dangers for teens online | Alaska Insight
Alaska Insight host, Lori Townsend, interviews guests about teen safety online.
Confronting antisemitism in Alaska on Holocaust Remembrance Day | Alaska Insight
Recent attacks and vandalism targeting Jewish people have highlighted concerns over a rise in bigotry in our country. This week marks Holocaust Remembrance Day, a time to reflect on the terrible legacy of antisemitism. Lori Townsend examines that legacy with Rabbi Abram Goodstein of Congregation Beth Sholom in Anchorage and Anti-Defamation League advisory board member Robin Dern.
Alaskans advocate for state recognition of Tribal sovereignty | Alaska Insight
What does it mean to be a sovereign tribe and what would state recognition mean for Alaska’s indigenous nations?
Why former Permanent Fund Corp. director believes firing was ‘political retribution’
The abrupt firing of Permanent Fund Corporation Director Angela Rodell in December surprised and concerned many Alaskans, including some lawmakers. Senate President Peter Micciche said this week that he was surprised by Rodell’s firing.
Lawmakers hope for compromise and consensus as next Legislative session approaches | Alaska Insight
Long-term fiscal solutions for Alaska’s budget have been elusive so far, and political frustration is boiling over. State lawmakers are returning to Juneau for the regular legislative session starting next week.
Alaska News Nightly: Friday, December 24, 2021
A look back at the long fight over the Tongass roadless rule. Also, a shortage of Alaska crab creates challenges for local restaurants.
ANCSA at 50 | Special Edition of Alaska Insight
Fifty years ago this December, Alaska Native leaders joined forces with national lawmakers to create legislation that ensured certain native land rights in our state. How has that legislation evolved over the decades? What does the next generation of Alaska Native leaders want to see moving forward?
As more nations eye the Arctic as a strategic resource, what is the U.S. military’s plan? | Alaska Insight
Alaska's Arctic region is opening to increased vessel traffic and global interest. What are the American military’s plans to ensure security?