Author: Rachel Enano

Tragedy struck on Saturday morning when a plane crashed south of McGrath, Alaska, claiming the life of 58-year-old Cary Foster from Anchorage. Alaska State Troopers received a report of the crash at 9:51 a.m., but poor weather conditions hindered their initial response. Later, a helicopter was dispatched to the scene, where troopers found the pilot, Foster, deceased, along with his Piper PA-18 Supercub aircraft. The State Medical Examiner’s Office has taken custody of Foster’s body. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash, with Chief Clint Johnson of the Alaska Regional Office confirming their presence at the scene.…

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy signed several bills into law on Friday, addressing homeschool regulations, healthcare, and opioid overdose prevention. The state awaits a final court decision on its homeschool correspondence program. First, Dunleavy signed a bill directing the Alaska Board of Education to establish temporary regulations for homeschooling. It comes after the Alaska Supreme Court ruled in June that the state’s correspondence laws are constitutional. However, the lower court must still decide whether state funds can reimburse parents for private school tuition and other expenses. Next, Dunleavy signed a bill requiring schools to carry opioid overdose-reversing drugs. This move aims…

Nestled in Northeast Anchorage, Creekside Park Elementary unveiled its newly remodeled playground. This hub for neighborhood children was once inaccessible to some. However, Principal David Christal recognized its potential. Christal acknowledged subtle barriers, like a small step that became an obstacle for students with mobility challenges. Meanwhile, the school district recognized the need for upgrades. Chief Operating Officer Jim Anderson cited the challenge of choosing which school to prioritize. Creekside Park was selected due to its Title I status, life skills program, and high performance. Moreover, the new playground ensures inclusivity. Students like Aa’Maya Rushing can now join their peers…

Seth Herrera, a 34-year-old US Army soldier, faced federal charges related to child sex abuse materials. He used artificial intelligence to generate explicit content featuring minors. Prosecutors accused Herrera of transporting, receiving, and possessing child pornography. A grand jury indicted him, and authorities arrested him immediately after. If convicted, Herrera faces up to 20 years in prison. In court, prosecutors argued that Herrera posed a danger to the community. They cited his sophistication in hiding online activities. The judge agreed, ruling that Seth Herrera should be detained. Court documents revealed Herrera’s disturbing activities. He viewed and saved images and videos…

Shock and grief grip Ketchikan, Alaska, after a deadly landslide struck on Sunday. Mayor Rodney Dial described the disaster as unprecedented, saying, “We’ve never had anything of this magnitude happen to Ketchikan.” Thirteen people sought shelter at an emergency center on Sunday, with more expected to stay Monday night. Dial emphasized the community’s strength and resilience, saying, “When something like this happens, you’ll see many people step up to the plate and volunteer.” The landslide has caused widespread suffering, with one fatality, Sean Griffin, and several injuries. Dial expressed his condolences, saying, “It hurts to know we’ve lost someone. This…

Joseph Emerson, a former Alaska Airlines pilot, recalls the day he almost shut down both engines on a flight as the worst 30 seconds of his life. In October 2023, Emerson was struggling with the death of his best friend and the effects of psychedelic mushrooms he had taken. As he took his jump seat in the cockpit, he felt a deepening fear and became convinced that reality wasn’t real. Emerson’s anxiety intensified, and he reached for the engine shut-off controls, pulling the levers. The pilots quickly stopped him, and Emerson realized his actions could have ended in disaster. He…

An environmental group, Oceana, has filed a lawsuit against the National Marine Fisheries Service. The lawsuit alleges that the agency has failed to protect Alaska’s coral gardens from destructive bottom trawling practices. Recently, research has revealed the importance of these underwater ecosystems. Colorful cold-water corals and sponges provide vital fish and other sea life habitats. However, they are vulnerable to climate change and bottom trawling. The lawsuit claims that the National Marine Fisheries Service has neglected its duty to protect the Gulf of Alaska’s seafloor. This neglect violates the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act and the National Environmental Policy…

The Alaska Department of Health announced a significant step forward in the fight against the opioid crisis on Monday. Next, they revealed the 18 recipients of the Statewide Opioid Settlement grant, totaling almost $3 million. First, in Anchorage, Region 1, Akeela, Alaska’s Children’s Trust, and Volunteers of America Alaska will receive grants. These total $399,000, supporting local health programs and services. Meanwhile, in the Gulf Coast, Region 3, three organizations will benefit. Central Peninsula General Hospital, Kachemak Bay Recovery Connections, and Set Free will each receive $142,000. In addition, in the Interior, Mat-Su, and Northern regions, seven organizations will share…

A tense standoff unfolded in Gambell, Alaska, on Friday afternoon. Alaska State Troopers arrived at a residence to serve a warrant to Vaughn Walunga, 46, accused of terroristic threatening in the second degree. The situation quickly turned dangerous. As troopers approached the front door, Walunga emerged with a gun and fired a single shot. Troopers immediately returned fire, striking Walunga in the hand. The brief exchange of gunfire left no one else injured. Troopers took Walunga into custody after he received medical attention at a local clinic. The Alaska Bureau of Investigation now leads the case, and additional charges are…

The Alaska State Fair is back, kicking off on August 16 and running through September 2. This year’s event promises to deliver the classic fair experience, with a lineup of food, vendors, concerts, and entertainment. Thrill-seekers will love the 40+ rides, including the new “Four-by-Fun” dune buggy ride for kids. Chase Eckert, safety and operations chief for Golden Wheel Amusements, is excited about the big crowds. “We’re expecting a huge turnout,” he says. “The weather is perfect, and we can’t wait to start.” With a motto of “Safer is Funner,” Eckert ensures that every ride is thoroughly inspected and ready…

Whittier Alaska, unveils a new terminal at its port, revolutionizing tourism. The City of Whittier, Huna Totem Corporation, and Alaska Railroad collaborated on this project. Community leaders hail the terminal as a job creator, citing vending, contracting, and maintenance. Russell Dick, Huna Totem Corporation’s CEO, says, “We designed this space for community events, like proms and gatherings, to bring people together.” The terminal boasts ample open space, perfect for hosting events. Sen. Dan Sullivan notes, “Huna Totem wants visitors to experience Whittier’s charm, encouraging them to stay longer.” The new terminal streamlines cruise ship turnaround, boosting tourism. This upgrade will…

Portland, OR – Alaska Airlines celebrated the grand opening of Portland International Airport’s (PDX) new terminal, a world-class facility years in the making. The new terminal features innovative technology. Moreover, it includes automated bag drop stations with Apple iPad-powered tag printing, designed to move guests quickly through security. “The new terminal showcases our shared vision with the Port of Portland for improved travel,” said Shane Jones, Senior Vice President of Fleet, Revenue Products and Real Estate at Alaska Airlines. “We’ve designed it to highlight the region’s unique character.” Alaska Airlines has grown significantly in Portland, increasing flights by 17% from…