Business

A few weeks ago, the general manager of Juneau Tours and Whale Watch was sweating over how busy a summer tourism season was coming. Now, she’s laying off staff and packing up the office to move to a smaller space.

Providence Alaska’s chief medical officer says the drive-thru is intended for people with mild symptoms, and they must have a referral from their health care provider or an urgent care clinic.

The situation looks much different than it did a week ago, and some businesses are trying to prepare for more uncertainty to come. 

A spokesperson for the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management says it’s unlikely the coronavirus outbreak will cause a disruption to the delivery of goods from out of state.

Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz has banned dine-in service for food and drink at restaurants, bars and breweries, to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The order also closes gyms, bingo halls and theaters, and it bans gatherings of more than 50 people.

Canada has closed its ports to large cruise ships until July 1 in response to the spread of coronavirus. The restriction applies to vessels carrying 500 people or more.

The Trump administration last month proposed to narrow the scope of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. That could have profound impacts on how industry players approach development in Alaska.

Beyond learning how to properly cut hair, Hair Science Barbershop owner Shawn Idom teaches student barbers that haircuts and community-building go hand-in-hand.

The State Department issued a travel warning Sunday that says “U.S. citizens, particularly travelers with underlying health conditions, should not travel by cruise ship.”

While many North Slope fields are on the decline, production at Hilcorp’s Milne Point has actually increased by huge amounts. Now the company is acquiring the massive Prudhoe Bay field, raising hopes of a similar revival there.