Top Stories

News stories, radio and TV episodes that warrant one of six spots on our homepage. The homepage is in chronological order of publication date, so stories are moved off the homepage as more are categorized “top stories.”

Conservation Groups May Oppose State in Sea Lion Battle

Ellen Lockyer, KSKA – Anchorage Conservation groups may take sides in the state suit filed today against the National Marine Fisheries Service. Mike Levine...

Governor proposes repeal of Certificate of Need law

Governor Palin’s proposal to eliminate a law that balances community needs with the brick and mortar of health care has local hospital administrators worried. ...
A woman in a red and black checkered shirt stands near books.

Bronson’s new library chief, a veteran educator, faces opposition over lack of library experience

Sami Graham's appointment is prompting objections to her confirmation from those who say its leader needs specific experience. Graham’s predecessor in the $120,000-a-year job, Mary Jo Torgeson, had masters degrees in library science and public administration.
a white raven

After winter of wonder, Anchorage’s white raven takes flight

For six months, a rare white raven took up residence in Anchorage. But now it has moved on, leaving locals who loved the leucistic bird in limbo.
Entrance to Anchorage's Providence Hospital emergency room. (Photo by Josh Edge, APRN - Anchorage)

New Mobile Crisis Team to shift Anchorage mental health crisis response from police to behavioral health experts

The Anchorage Assembly approved funding last week for a new mobile intervention team that will respond to mental health crisis calls. The program, which is funded by alcohol tax revenue, is meant to shift the city’s mental health response from police to behavioral health experts.
school bus in front of building

Teacher retention bonus bill moves forward in Alaska House

The bill would give bonuses of up to $15,000 to full-time teachers at the end of each school year.

Could market squid become a new Southeast fishery?

Southeast Alaska marine scientists got a rare peek this year into the hatching of a certain species of squid.
a veterinary clinic

2 Kasilof residents charged with animal cruelty after dog found frozen to death

Staff at a Soldotna veterinary clinic said one of several dogs left outside in the case had likely died of malnourishment and hypothermia.

Palin hires lawyer to handle Monegan/Wooten investigation matters

Governor Palin has hired a private lawyer to defend her in the investigation over the firing of Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monegan. The Legislature...

As state grapples with food stamp backlog, an Anchorage middle school steps up to feed families

When principal Marcus Wilson found out about one student’s family struggling to get food, he sent out a message to all families to see if it was a bigger issue. And it was.

Oil tax credit bill on its way to the Senate, with ultimatum from House

After hours of debate on the state House floor, an oil tax credit bill is on its way to the Senate. Listen now

Senate to Vote on Health Care Christmas Eve

Leaders in the US Senate announced on Tuesday that they’ll vote on a health care bill early Christmas Eve day. Libby Casey, APRN –...
A woman poses in front of books

The Anchorage Public Library finally has a confirmed director

Unlike Mayor Bronson’s past picks, veteran librarian Virginia McClure has a strong library background and the Assembly’s confidence.

Legislature Diving Into Anchorage’s Violent Crime, Potentially Bringing New Funds

Legislators in Juneau heard testimony Friday on why violent crime appears to be rising, and what assistance state law-makers may be able to provide through appropriations.
A dog team in snowy low sprice trees

Chatanika musher Dan Kaduce races to win experimental Summit Quest 300

Organizers put in place a new rule that required about 50% more rest at checkpoints than usual in hopes of achieving better dog health.

AK Supreme Court upholds supertanker tax

The Alaska Supreme Court has upheld a property tax levied on supertankers entering the port of Valdez. The city of Valdez in 1999 began...

Psychedelic medicine task force would lay groundwork for therapeutic use in Alaska

The task force would look at the role psychedelics could play in addressing Alaska’s mental health crisis.

Judge Sides with Federal Government in Predator Control Case

Annie Feidt, APRN – Anchorage The state lost its court bid on Monday to begin targeted aerial predator control this week in its effort...
Slick roads outside buildings

High winds cause Alaska Airlines jet to slide on icy Dillingham runway

The jet was carrying 74 passengers and four crew members. The airline said no one was injured.

I Am An Ice Fisherman

Elmer Brown knows that it takes patience, and a willingness to weather the cold, to catch sheefish on Kotzebue Sound.