Author: Rachel Enano

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…

Alaska is closer to addressing its lawyer shortage thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) and Seattle University School of Law. Meanwhile, this collaboration, dubbed the Alaska Hybrid Hub, enables Alaskans to pursue law degrees without leaving the state. Previously, aspiring lawyers had to relocate to other states to pursue their education. However, this partnership tackles Alaska’s status as the only state without a physical law school. The Alaska Hybrid Hub mirrors Seattle University’s Flex JD program, offering a part-time hybrid model. Additionally, students attend occasional in-person weekend classes in Seattle and complete the rest…

Palmer City Manager Stephen Jellie faces potential censure and removal after just 45 days. The controversy began when Jellie placed Police Chief Dwayne Shelton on paid administrative leave, sparking heated debate. Shelton claims this is a retaliatory action due to his public safety concerns and employee rights advocacy. At a recent meeting, city council members and officials accused Jellie of dismantling the city and violating employee rights. Officer Matt Moore urged the council to act quickly, stating that Jellie’s actions would lead to “dire need and vulnerability” for the city. Jellie asserts that he’s being wrongly blamed, emphasizing that his…

Tensions ran high at Palmer’s City Hall on Tuesday. Dozens of residents gathered to express concerns about City Manager Stephen Jellie. Many called for Jellie’s immediate administrative leave, citing “intimidation tactics” against City Attorney Sarah Heath. Heath sounded the alarm, stating that Jellie’s actions put the city in a “dangerous position.” This created a plethora of legal liabilities. Moreover, Jellie assumed multiple roles without the necessary training or experience. Specifically, Jellie took on the roles of city council, city attorney, HR manager, and acting chief of police and fire rescue. It sparked widespread concern, with Heath labeling Jellie an “imminent…

Palmer resident Georgia Barkwood has earned a spot among the world’s top porridge makers. Notably, she competed in Scotland’s Golden Spurtle competition at the World Porridge Making Championship, where she showcased her exceptional oatmeal skills. Building on her previous success, Barkwood’s journey began at the Alaska Scottish Highland Games, where she won two spurtle championships. This victory, in turn, inspired her to take on the world champion competition in Carrbridge, Scotland. Although Barkwood didn’t win the Golden Spurtle, she cherished the experience. “Not winning means I’m among the top 30 porridge makers globally,” she said. Moreover, Barkwood enjoyed the competition…

A tense standoff in Anchorage, Alaska, ended tragically Sunday morning. Police responded to reports of a disturbance with a weapon at a Greenland Drive home. They closed Minnesota Drive between West Tudor Road and West 36th Avenue around 9:00 a.m. Officers attempted to contact the man, who remained alone after another person safely left the scene. However, the man refused to answer questions, prompting police to leave. Unexpectedly, he fired shots at the departing officers twice. Fortunately, no officers were injured. The Alaska Police Department (APD) swiftly secured the area and called for additional support. Police then entered the home…

A devastating aftermath has unfolded following Hurricane Helene’s landfall on September 26, claiming over 220 lives and leaving hundreds more unaccounted for. The storm’s destructive path has isolated many communities, cutting off essential supplies and services. In response, a nationwide relief effort has mobilized, with Alaskans among those lending a helping hand. Teams across the country, including the Last Frontier, have deployed to the Southeast region to provide critical aid. The situation remains dire, with many residents struggling to access necessities like food, water, power, and communication. The disaster has prompted an outpouring of support, with various organizations and individuals…

Anchorage Mayor Lafrance will deliver the proposed 2025 budget to the Anchorage Assembly by the end of the day, kicking off a critical phase in the 2025 Anchorage Budget Process. As law requires, the mayor must submit the budget at least 90 days before the year’s end.This budget will outline proposed operating costs for local services, road maintenance, snow removal, and utilities. Anchorage Assembly Chair Chris Constant notes that late-day budget submissions are common. “The real-time constraint is passing the budget 30 days before the new year starts,” he emphasizes.Constant foresees focuses on the 2025 budget, including snow removal, updating…

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly will vote on a measure to showcase pivotal U.S. historical documents and the Ten Commandments in select public buildings. Assembly member Ron Bernier spearheads this move, aiming to educate the public.Bernier’s proposal includes displaying the U.S. Constitution, Alaska Constitution, Mayflower Compact, Magna Carta, and Ten Commandments at Dorotha Swanda Jones building in Downtown Palmer. The Magna Carta significantly influenced the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence. Bernier emphasizes that his intention is solely educational.Bernier’s Mat-Su Historical Documents plan will take effect to address overlooked historical documents. Bernier believes today’s youth are not taught history effectively, and…

Katmai National Park officials postponed the Fat Bear Week bracket reveal due to a bear’s death in the Brooks River. The announcement will now take place on October 1 at 3 p.m. Matt Johnson of the National Park Service notes that national parks protect nature’s wonders and harsh realities. “Each bear competes with others to survive,” he says. However, another issue concerns park authorities. Anglers feeding fish to bears prompted the closure of the Brooks River Corridor. Park employees witnessed four incidents between September 18 and 29. Feeding bears creates unsafe conditions, Johnson warns. “Bears consider people a food source…