Jacob Resneck, CoastAlaska, Author at KCAW

DMV privatization plan gets cool reception from Alaska lawmakers

The Dunleavy administration’s plan to replace six state DMVs with unnamed private vendors is facing pushback from lawmakers across the political spectrum. Critics say rural Alaskans could pay higher fees, drive hundreds of miles or even take a ferry or plane to take driver’s tests or register vehicles.

Alaska says ‘adiós’ to marine highway’s fast ferries

The state purchased a pair of fast ferries for $68 million more than 15 years ago. The Dunleavy administration finalized their sale for about $5.1 million.

AMHS: fast ferries sale to ‘international firm’ nears completion

The marine highway's general manager says talks are continuing with an overseas bidder. A Spanish ferry company was the sole bidder last month for the state's two fast ferries.

NTSB’s probe of fatal Guardian Flight crash inconclusive

NTSB's blames the Guardian Flight crash on: "A loss of control for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information." The three crew members were killed in 2019 after the twin-engine turboprop crashed into Frederick Sound during its approach into Kake.

Eight months later, the family of a Kodiak man killed at a naval base are seeking answers

The family of a Kodiak man shot and killed at a naval facility near his home say they’re still seeking answers eight months after their son’s death. Federal officials have released little information saying the investigation remains ongoing.

Alaska tribes apply for FCC broadband licenses to improve internet access

Tribes are awaiting word on scores of wireless broadband licenses offered at no charge by the FCC. It’s part of a federal push to improve internet access in underserved communities.

Pelican-bound ferry postponed by bomb scare in Juneau

Authorities say a man drove on board the LeConte claiming he had an explosive device. The ferry was evacuated and the man was arrested by Juneau police.

Twitter suspends reporter relaying legislator’s vaccine skepticism

The Midnight Sun's Matt Buxton had his Twitter account suspended all-day Thursday after live tweeting a Sen. Lora Reinbold (R-Eagle River) assertion that the COVID-19 vaccine was dangerous.

Sealaska Heritage Institute cancels ‘Celebration’ in 2021

“Celebration” traditionally draws thousands of participants to Juneau to honor Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian dances, language and song. It was postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic and organizers say they don't feel comfortable gathering in 2021, either.

Alaska’s first ‘Blue Canoe’ comes to inglorious end in windstorm

Alaska lost a bit of its maritime history this week. The first state ferry -- the Chilkat -- broke free of its moorings on Wednesday and sank during a windstorm in Anacortes, Washington.