Robert Hannon

A former University of Alaska Fairbanks student is suing the school for withholding his diploma. In February Nolan Youngmun was acquitted of charges he raped another UAF student. Youngmun’s attorney says the University has dragged its feet in its own investigation and lacks the authority to withhold the diploma. Listen now

The Alaska Department of Transportation is preparing to sell a popular well that provides Fairbanks area residents with water. Fox springs has long been a staple resource for cabin dwellers and others who want free spring water. DOT said cuts in its budget are leading to the sale.

The state has begun issuing licenses to marijuana growers, processors and sellers. That has entrepreneurs gearing up operations, hoping to get into a fledgling enterprise. One local farm has been cleared to start pot cultivation. The operation is seeing large capital outlays to accommodate state regulations. Download Audio

Those with heroin and opioid addictions will have an easier time seeking treatment in the future. Monday, the Fairbanks City Mayor and Police Chief were joined by social service and counseling representatives to announce a new initiative. Download Audio

A University of Alaska Fairbanks researcher has received more than $1.5 million from the National Institutes of Health to figure out how vaccines work. Andrea Ferrante hopes his work will lead to more effective inoculations against diseases, such as the Ebola or Zika viruses. Download Audio

The Greater Fairbanks Community Hospital Foundation is planning to operate the community’s largest care facility and private employer. The decision follows in the wake of failed negotiations with Providence announced earlier this month. The Foundation is confident it has the management group in place to succeed. Download Audio

Electric energy is a fundamental factor of modern life. But in rural Alaska the cost of keeping lights on and machines running is extraordinarily high, putting villages at an economic disadvantage. Last week a federal administrator passed through the University of Alaska Fairbanks to review a project that aims to draw down energy costs in smaller communities. Download Audio

A senior Department of Veterans Affairs administrator is promising to address concerns he heard Tuesday in Fairbanks. Dr. Baligh Yehia was in Alaska conducting listening sessions of Alaska vets. Many of the attendees expressed doubt any change would come from the event. Download Audio

The Fairbanks North Star Borough took action on an ordinance Wednesday that targets high polluting hydronic heaters. The special meeting for the vote was after lengthy public testimony on the measure last week. The ordinance the assembly passed, differed significantly from the one offered by its sponsors.

The Alaska Goldpanners baseball team officially announced its new contract with the Fairbanks North Star Borough Wednesday. Last year, the semi-pro ball club had tangled with the borough over the safety issues at its home field, Growden Park. Differences have been set aside so the tradition of the Midnight Sun Game continues. Download Audio