Alaska Marine Highway accepting bids for fleet’s fast ferries
Reducing the size of the state’s ferry fleet was among the cost-saving recommendations from a work group looking to make the Alaska Marine Highway System more efficient so the state is redoubling its efforts to sell its two fast ferries.
Including seal oil in this food competition is about more than taste
The competition wasn’t just about awarding the traditional food. The event organizer says it’s also about a history of cultural resilience that still resonates today. Listen now
Coalition Forms to Address Downtown Juneau Problems
The image of Juneau’s downtown ranges from the glamour of huge cruise ships and stores catering to tourists, to street people with nowhere to go.
An informal coalition has formed representing business and property owners, residents and social service organizations to tackle some of the issues.
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Copper River King salmon run slower than anticipated
The Copper River King salmon run is coming in weaker than anticipated. Alaska Department of Fish and Game Glennallen area management biologist Mark Somerville said run measures, including a weak commercial king harvest on the delta, and sub-par in river counts and catches all point to the same thing. Download Audio
Senate Finance Committee Examines Efforts to Lower Oil Taxes
The state Senate Finance committee is taking the first steps toward understanding what is expected to be a major point of contention during next year’s session -- a renewed effort by the Governor and members of the House of Representatives to lower oil taxes.
National Guard works to revive rural Alaska presence
Most villages in the region have old National Guard armories. There was a time when they were all manned by guardsman from the community but now they are mostly vacant. A statewide effort is underway to strengthen the dwindling guard presence in rural Alaska villages.
Cuts Could Cost Fairbanks Schools Over 60 Jobs
The Fairbanks North Star Borough Schools superintendent says the district is facing a budget shortfall of up to $11 million in the coming school year. Karen Gaborik says that will require the district to eliminate more than 60 jobs.
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Pre-K in Igiugig is all in Yup’ik
School has been underway in Igiugig for a couple of weeks now. This year even the youngest set are included. The village has opened Unglu, a Yup’ik immersion program for infants to 5-year-olds. Listen now
After losing his legs, Marko Cheseto sprinting toward international competition
A little more than five years ago, Marko Cheseto, a wildly successful UAA runner stumbled into a midtown hotel lobby. He had been outside for more than 60 hours in sub-freezing temperatures; he was suffering from severe frostbite and hypothermia, which led to the loss of both his legs below the knee. The years since have been challenging, but the former University of Alaska Anchorage standout is now thriving. Listen Now
New development center will connect Alaska businesses with AI tools
The Alaska Small Business Development Center has a new resource center aimed at familiarizing businesses with AI tools.
13 convicted of drug and money laundering crimes on Kodiak
Led by a section of the Coast Guard, law enforcement officials say the convictions stem from heroin and methamphetamine sales on the island.
Homer finds solace in community after murder arrest
The arrest follows a multi-year, community-wide search for Anesha “Duffy” Murnane who disappeared in October 2019.
Federal judge dismisses Trump classified-documents case
Aileen Cannon cited the manner in which a special counsel was appointed to investigate Donald Trump's handling of classified documents.
Healy Clean Coal Plant Shouldn’t See Impact From New Regulations
New federal regulations on coal fired energy should not affect’s Golden Valley Electric Association’s re-start of the Healy Clean Coal plant. GVEA President and CEO Cory Borgeson expects the plan to purchase and operate the long idled facility to remain on track.
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Kuskokwim River freeze-up causes complications for Bethel barge service
Last month, one boat belonging to Alaska Logistics spilled oil and another got stuck, both due to ice.
Updated: Lt. Gov. Mallott resigns, citing ‘inappropriate comments’
The governor plans to hold a press conference in Anchorage at 3 p.m.
Dunleavy slashes education funding boost as part of budget vetoes
Vetoes total more than $200 million, including half of the one-time boost the Legislature added for schools.
State sinks abandoned F/V Akutan after disastrous season
The state of Alaska took custody of the custom processor in mid-January. It was scuttled Thursday, but it is unclear how the state funded disposal of the vessel. Listen now
AMHS announces another change to Alaska Class Ferry rollout
The Alaska Marine Highway System announced more changes to the Alaska Class Ferry rollout this week, but the summer schedule is still uncertain. A spokesperson says the new plan will get Alaska Class Ferries in service sooner and save money.
Wintergreens prepares to open the first marijuana lounge in Haines
Alaska is poised to become the first state to regulate cannabis cafes. The state’s Marijuana Control Board is now accepting applications for onsite consumption. That’s despite uncertainty stemming from recent board appointees by Governor Mike Dunleavy’s administration.