Last year’s climbing season was canceled due to COVID-19. Now climbing is returning, along with its boost to businesses in the Northern Susitna Valley.
Business
Satellite internet promises fast, cheaper service to rural Alaska, but technology remains untested
Residents of Western Alaska villages pay several hundreds of dollars a month for data speeds that max out at 10 Mbps.
Sealaska Heritage settles Ravenstail coat case with Neiman Marcus, other defendants
The terms of the settlement are confidential, but some effects of it may become public.
No relief coming for Juneau electric customers’ damages after two power surges, AEL&P says
Debbie Driscoll from AEL&P said Juneau’s been hit by unusually bad storms and icing conditions since the fall, though she understands customers’ frustration.
Ketchikan businesses reckon with another summer without cruise ships
Some Ketchikan businesses managed to limp through 2020 but wonder how they’ll survive a second season without cruise visitors.
LISTEN: What another summer without cruise ships could mean for Alaska’s economy
Economist Mouhcine Guettabi says the tourism industry will eventually recover, and it’s important to help businesses survive to see that happen.
Small cruise ships are coming to Southeast Alaska, but not all passengers will get to mingle and shop in towns
A handful of smaller, boutique cruises plan to sail this year, but not all of them plan to allow passengers to stop in towns.
Juneau Assembly mulls partial fireworks ban and outlawing sales
Juneau Assembly member Michelle Hale helped write the draft fireworks ordinance. She said she really wants to target the booming, concussive fireworks.
For Sitka tourism businesses, the 2021 season is fraught with uncertainty
The 2021 season has left many in a holding pattern, especially those that rely on the cruise ship industry.
Employment data shows double-digit declines across Southeast Alaska
Some Southeast communities lost as many as 4 in 5 hotel, tour and restaurant jobs.