Author: Rachel Enano
Rachel Enano
Rachel is passionate about to write the stories that matter most to her community. With a sharp investigative mind and a knack for storytelling, she strives to shed light on both the triumphs and challenges faced by residents.
Ten individuals face federal charges for allegedly operating a major drug trafficking organization in Anchorage, Alaska, highlighting the ongoing issue of Alaska drug trafficking. Rodney Godwin, 50, is accused of leading the operation. Godwin allegedly conspired with nine others to traffic fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin. Eight defendants face a single indictment filed in May, while two others face separate indictments filed in September. Prosecutors allege Godwin led a continuing criminal enterprise, conspiring to distribute controlled substances, laundering money, and carrying firearms. Consequently, if convicted, Godwin faces up to life in prison. The other defendants could receive up to 20…
Alaska’s education commissioner, Deena Bishop, faced scrutiny for relying on generative AI to draft a policy on cellphone use in schools. The document contained false citations, fueling the Alaska AI controversy. The document, posted online and presented to the state Board of Education and Early Development, cited nonexistent studies from reputable journals. Ellie Pavlick, an AI expert, confirmed they were likely AI-generated. Initially, a department spokesperson downplayed the issue, calling the false sources “placeholders.” However, Bishop admitted to using generative AI. The incident highlights concerns about AI’s influence on state policy, deepening the Alaska AI controversy. Pavlick noted that AI…
The US Navy is making amends for past mistakes, specifically the 1882 bombardment of Angoon, Alaska. On Saturday, Navy Adm Mark Sucato will formally apologize to the small town, acknowledging the harm inflicted on the Tlingit community. This marks the second apology by the military to Alaska Natives, following a similar apology in Kake last September. The 1882 attack left devastating consequences, claiming the lives of seven children and destroying food stores and dugout canoes essential for hunting and fishing. Emma Demmert, Angoon principal and event organizer, notes that generational trauma still lingers. “I didn’t learn about this until I…
Anchorage’s Museum After Dark made a roaring comeback on Thursday night, drawing crowds with its electrifying theme: Sasquatch, Yeti, or Bigfoot. This legendary creature has long fascinated the public, and the museum capitalized on that enthusiasm. “The response has been overwhelming,” said the Chief Visitor and Engagement Officer Adam Baldwin. “We tapped into that excitement, and it paid off.” The event transformed the museum into a vibrant hub, offering a dynamic experience that strayed from the traditional. Baldwin emphasized, “It’s about exploring possibilities – what downtown, the community, and our museum can become.” Museum After Dark occurs sporadically on Thursday…
The Anchorage Parks and Recreation Commission tackled the diving board controversy head-on in a special meeting, addressing concerns over new diving boards at the Bartlett High School pool. Commissioners heard public comments from athletes, coaches, parents, and renovation participants for over two hours. The meeting aimed to find a solution to the ongoing diving board controversy. Divided opinions emerged. Diving community members praised the new boards, while swimming enthusiasts expressed concerns about the boards’ positioning, citing hindrances to practice and competition performance. Two main groups formed: those for and against the boards. A motion proposed to remove the boards promptly…
The Anchorage Assembly made two significant decisions on Tuesday to address homelessness and infrastructure development. First, they voted to sell the Municipality’s sprung structure to the Port of Alaska. The Port of Alaska will utilize the materials to modernize three facilities, including a sand storage structure, a storage facility for trucks and equipment, and a new maintenance staff facility. According to Port Director Steve Ribuffo, “It’s a three-for-one deal,” and they believe it’s a great opportunity. The sprung structure was initially intended for a new navigation center to support homelessness outreach. However, the project required an additional $17 million to…
A hit-and-run collision in downtown Anchorage early Saturday left a 32-year-old pedestrian hospitalized with serious injuries. Police arrested Ariel Taylor Maskrey, 28, charging her with first-degree assault, driving under the influence, and leaving the scene of an accident. According to authorities, the incident occurred around 2:40 a.m. near 4th Avenue and H Street. Responding officers found the victim unconscious in the street. Witnesses reported a sedan driven by a woman struck the pedestrian and fled. The driver, identified as Maskrey, allegedly backed up, continued north, and turned east on 3rd Avenue. Police discovered a vehicle grill at the scene and…
Anchorage’s iconic Fur Rendezvous festival is gearing up for its 90th anniversary in 2025. To commemorate this milestone, the 2025 Fur Rendezvous collector pin design was unveiled recently, featuring a stunning white and black raven. Dubbed “Raven Spirit,” this year’s design draws inspiration from the rare white raven spotted throughout Anchorage over the past year. According to Richard Rearick, the designer behind the pin, the unique bird’s beauty lies in its differences. “I think people saw the beauty in the white raven because it was different,” Rearick noted. This sentiment resonates deeply with Anchorage’s diverse community, where various cultures converge.…
A shooting investigation is underway in Anchorage’s Mountain View neighborhood. On Tuesday night, police responded to reports of multiple shots fired at the intersection of Thompson Avenue and Price Street. The area remains closed as authorities gather evidence. At 8:37 p.m., swing shift officers arrived at the 400 block of Price Street. The investigation has been ongoing since then. The Anchorage Police Department urges anyone with information to come forward. To aid the investigation, witnesses can call 311 and dial 1 or contact police dispatch at (907) 786-8900 and press 0. Authorities encourage the public’s assistance in solving this case.…
A devastating tragedy unfolded in Fairbanks, Alaska, on Monday, October 14, 2024, when someone brutally murdered a 5-year-old boy. Consequently, the community was left reeling in shock. At 10 a.m., Fairbanks Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a harmed child. Immediately, responding officers arrived and found the child’s lifeless body inside a downtown apartment. The Fairbanks Police Department launched a thorough Fairbanks homicide investigation led by Police Chief Ron Dupee. “We are incredibly saddened at what that poor child went through, and we will do everything in our power to bring justice,” he stated emphatically. Meanwhile, investigators prioritize…
In Anchorage, Alaska, families, clinicians, and advocates gathered for “The Climb,” a pivotal event focused on maternal health and wellness. The Alaska Chapter of Postpartum Support International (PSI) organized this ninth-annual event to raise vital awareness and funds for perinatal and maternal health issues. Morgan Turner, the event organizer, explained that PSI provides essential support to new parents through peer support, call lines, and online groups. “The Climb” is a crucial fundraiser, allocating half the funds locally and the other half nationally. The two-day event featured renowned speakers, interactive panels, and informative sessions, welcoming individuals affected by perinatal health conditions.…
King Charles has confirmed that Australia’s future as a constitutional monarchy or republic rests solely with the Australian people. This statement comes from his visit to Australia, scheduled for October 18-26. In a letter exchanged between Buckingham Palace officials and the Australian Republic Movement, the King’s position on the matter was clear. The palace reiterated that whether Australia becomes a republic is a decision for the Australian public to make, shaping the country’s Australian Republican Future. The Australian Republic Movement had requested a meeting with King Charles during his visit. In response, palace officials wrote, “The King appreciated that you…