The Alaska Current

10/31/2025

Nearly 70,000 Alaskans could lose SNAP benefits this weekend amid the federal shutdown, just as the state recovers from Typhoon Halong. Advocates warn of strain on food banks and call for community support.

More than 66,000 Alaskans are set to lose access to federally backed food aid this weekend.

10/31/2025

Alaska Supreme Court hears case on doctor-only abortion law. Since 2021, advanced nurse practitioners, midwives and PAs have been able to provide care.

Since 2021, Alaskans have had more options to seek abortion care, but a case before the Alaska Supreme Court could change that.

10/31/2025

While politicians bicker, families go hungry. Murkowski tried to fund SNAP during the shutdown — Sullivan voted no. Meanwhile, kids are left with only tricks, no treats.
Illustration and commentary by Holly Todd.

10/27/2025

Turning CBD into THC? A new “innovation” has Alaska’s cannabis regulators scrambling — and one company facing fines, product destruction and industry backlash.

Meetings of Alaska’s Ma*****na Control Board this year have been a source of top-shelf drama.

10/25/2025

"We should withhold the hosannas until we see if FEMA delivers," writes Dermot Cole.

This story was originally published by Reporting From Alaska, Dermot Cole. The Wall Street Journal had this update Sept. 28 on how the Federal Emergency Management Agency is failing to respond to emergencies. Sens. Lisa Murkowski, Dan Sullivan, Rep. Nick Begich the Third and Gov. Mike Dunleavy gushe...

10/24/2025

Anglers who bought a 2025 Alaska sport fishing license may soon get the annual Alaska Sport Fishing Survey. The survey helps ADF&G track fishing activity statewide and has been conducted every year since 1977.

The first wave of mailings began earlier this week.

10/24/2025

Queso for a cause! 🌮 This week, Anchorage Restaurant Week features 51 local spots giving back to the Food Bank of Alaska. From Serrano’s donating $2 per queso to special prefix menus, every bite helps fight hunger in Alaska.

Eating queso for good is not a hard sell, and that’s exactly what you can do this Thursday.

10/24/2025

Boaters, take note: The float at Jakolof Bay Dock is being decommissioned this week, though the approach will stay open for access. Seldovia says to steer clear of the area during removal (Oct. 22–23) and avoid tying to exposed pilings. Full dock replacement expected in 2026.

The float running parallel to the beach at Jakolof Bay Dock is no longer usable, according to a Tuesday, Oct. 21 public notice from the City of Seldovia, although boaters will still be able to access the beach from the approach.

10/23/2025

Think horror games are all jump scares? Not these. Matt Buxton's bi-weekly column The Great Indoors dives into multiplayer “horror” games that are more goofy chaos than terror.

In addition to nerding out about Alaska's political world, I'm also a big nerd about video games — I know, who would have guessed?

10/22/2025

Nearly 70,000 Alaskans could lose food assistance next month as the federal shutdown drags on — about 1 in 11 residents.

Nearly 70,000 disabled and low-income Alaskans are expected to lose access to federal food assistance.

10/21/2025

Homer Mayor Rachel Lord says recent high tides caused new erosion along the Spit Road, including sand loss and damage to infrastructure. ADOT has assigned a project manager to develop long-term coastal protections using $1.5 million in state funds.

A 22.7-foot high tide earlier this month has created worries about additional high tides forecasted in Homer for November.

10/21/2025

The City of Homer has a new fire chief. The City Council approved the hiring of Daniel Jager, who’s spent over 20 years as fire marshal in Juneau. Jager replaces former chief Mark Kirko, who retired in July following community concerns about volunteer turnover at HVFD.

The new chief will replace former Fire Chief Mark Kirko, who retired in July.