Programs

The "all ears" show is our way of inviting listeners to share ideas for show topics they'd like us to pursue in 2018. Our focus is local: Anchorage, Southcentral and Alaska. Are there people and topics you want us to work on? We're here to listen, so let us know. LISTEN HERE

KSKA: Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017 Social Security has been a part of American history, offering retirement and disability support, since President Franklin Roosevelt signed it into law in 1935. Will it last long enough for you to use it? How do you apply? How will early retirement affect your payments? If you become disabled, how does it help? How can Americans be assured that the government protects against Social Security fraud? We'll talk about these and more issues on the next Hometown Alaska. LISTEN HERE

KSKA: Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2 pm and 8 pm. Outsiders may think of the law as a staid profession, one in which the rules have been around for a long time and everyone dutifully followed them. If you enjoy the belief that Alaska is different than anyplace else in the Lower 48, listen in to this show to learn how Alaska's early lawyers and judges were different. LISTEN HERE

How do you keep your home computer and router and your mobile device safe from hackers? How do you scale that up for a small business. We asked the FBI, and they are sending experts in cyber security to share best practices and take your questions. LISTEN HERE

Critics of the news media can casually label stories they don't like as "fake news," but the U.S. Constitution protects rigorous press coverage for an important reason. First Amendment lawyer John McKay walks us through these constitutional protections and significant court cases upholding them, as well as Alaska cases where these protections have applied. LISTEN HERE

KSKA: Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2 pm and 8 pm. Our community's crisis with high health care costs is well known. On the next Hometown Alaska, we'll talk about solutions. You may have heard the Alaska Common Ground forums we have been airing. This will be your chance to talk back and share your ideas, and to hear from some of the very smart people involved in putting together those meetings. LISTEN HERE

Take a virtual tour of the stunning Art of the North gallery at the Anchorage Museum with curator Betany Porter, Aaron Leggett, curator of Alaska history and culture, and Kesler Woodward, Alaska artist and art historian. LISTEN HERE

Who deals with lost and abandoned animals in Anchorage? If you lose a pet, how do you find it? What city ordinances govern how we live with animals in the municipality? We'll talk cats, dogs, rabbits and more. LISTEN HERE

A major way citizens to participate in the judicial system happens on jury duty. How are jurors called to serve? Do you need a legal background to be a juror? What is the juror's job? What is the art and science behind selecting a jury? We'll talk with Alaska's state court jury coordinator, and with an attorney who has selected many juries for trial. LISTEN HERE

As 91.1 FM celebrates its 40th birthday, Hometown Alaska this week visits with soon-to-retire Bede ("Yipee, it's Friday") Trantina, and welcomes Shelly Wosniak, the new FM programmer, to the team. Join us for some fond memories of change and growth, and a look to the bright future at Alaska Public Media. LISTEN HERE

KSKA: Wednesday, March 14, 2 pm and 8 pm. Voters will decide over the coming weeks if Anchorage will have one electric utility or two. On the next Hometown Alaska, join us as we explore the reasons behind the proposed sale of Municipal Light and Power to Chugach Electric Association and ask your questions, including the impact on rates, taxes, jobs and energy. LISTEN HERE

Chasing bank robbers, federal gun law violators, money launderers and computer hackers. Find out what the FBI in Alaska is doing, on the next Justice Alaska on Hometown Alaska. LISTEN HERE

On this episode of Hometown Alaska, we will meet leaders in the grassroots movement to respond to the opioid crisis. These are recovering addicts, and moms of addicts, who are helping get users into recovery, and working with the political system at all levels to make a change. They're inspiring people and they have a lot to share about dealing with this terrible epidemic. Thanks for listening!

What's it like to live in Alaska as a member of the DACA generation? Meet local business owner Deicy Camarena and mother and legal services worker H.J Kim. Thanks for listening!

KSKA Wednesday April 11, 2 pm and 8 pm Should the school day start earlier for elementary, and later for high school? That's under consideration by the Anchorage School District, based on student performance research. Details and your questions answered on Hometown Alaska. Thanks for listening!

Peers telling peers how to behave has proven an effective form of justice among Alaska's youth courts. Find out how and why it works. Thanks for listening!

Housing in Southcentral can be a challenge. Different populations have different needs, like seniors, workforce renters, or buyers looking for their starter home. Get an update from experts on efforts to solve housing availability. Thanks for listening!

Alaska has a fast-growing population of older Americans. Social Security benefits can be an important part of their retirement plans. Disability is a key safety net for many. Can you count on it to be there when you need it? All questions are welcome. Thanks for listening!

Spring time in Alaska means jazz returns to the streets, markets and club venues around Anchorage. And even to private homes, as Spenard Jazz Fest 2018 continues its house concert tradition. Learn more, and listen to some live jazz. Thanks for listening!

Dean Williams leads the Alaska Department of Corrections. He offers a candid look at the challenges, obstacles and aspirations of the critical agency he oversees. Your questions are welcome. Thanks for listening!