Individual news stories are posted on the APRN news page. You can subscribe to APRN’s newsfeeds via email, podcast and RSS. Follow us on Facebook at alaskapublic.org and on Twitter @aprn.
Competing Voter ID Bills Introduced In State Legislature
Alexandra Gutierrez, APRN – Juneau
It’s not too difficult to get an “I voted” sticker in Alaska. As long as you’ve registered, you just have to show a piece of identification at the polls, like a driver’s license or a utility bill. Even if you don’t have ID, you can cast a questioned ballot if an election worker can vouch for you. But two bills lawmakers are considering this year could change that process, in very different ways.
Inlet Inn Closure Leaves Residents on the Edge
Daysha Eaton, KSKA – Anchorage
An Anchorage motel that has become notorious for calls to the police and fire department is shutting down. The Inlet Inn has agreed to close by the end of the month. Police say it’s an effort to clean up downtown, but it means many long-term residents of the motel will have to find a new place to live.
Witnesses Tell NTSB Missing Pilot Was Drunk
The Associated Press
Witnesses have told the National Transportation Safety Board that a pilot who disappeared in mid-October was last seen intoxicated at the Soldotna airport.
Fairbanks Shies Away From Marijuana Dispensary Proposal
Dan Bross, KUAC – Fairbanks
The City of Fairbanks is being asked to authorize operation of the state’s first medical marijuana dispensary. A local woman is pushing the city to legalize operation of a business that could cultivate and sell the drug to approved medical users.
Scientists Unable To Determine Cause Of Seal, Walrus Illness
Joaqlin Estus, KNBA – Anchorage
An international team of scientists hasn’t been able to determine the cause of an illness afflicting seals and walruses in Canada, Russia, and Alaska. And now, the mysterious outbreak may be over.
Bill Would Lessen Cruise Ship Discharge Standards
Ed Schoenfeld, CoastAlaska – Juneau
The Parnell Administration wants to change another part of the 2006 cruise ship initiative.
Housing Homeless Youth Takes Trust, Love
Anne Brice, KCAW – Sitka
Taking care of the homeless is an ongoing problem in Alaska and it’s not limited to adults. There is also a large, and less visible, population of homeless kids. During the day they might be in school, indistinguishable from other students. But at night, they’re couch surfers. These kids may be avoiding an unsafe situation at home, or they’re over 18 — between childhood and adulthood — and simply have no options.
