We report on the recent death of Joshua Wade, an Alaska serial killer, in an Indiana prison. Wade, serving life sentences for multiple murders, was found unresponsive in his cell on June 14 and pronounced dead. We'll review his criminal history and the legal proceedings that followed his crimes.
We examine the legal challenge against Alaska's "dark money" law. A group of plaintiffs has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn the law, which mandates political donors to disclose their identities. We'll explain the arguments on both sides and the potential implications for political transparency.
We'll also share updates on foster care funding in Alaska. State officials have announced that they will continue to cover child care costs for foster families, even after federal pandemic-era funding ends. We'll hear from foster parents and advocates about the impact of this support.
In the second half, we discuss the federal allocation of nearly $12 million to address salmon fishery disasters in Alaska. This funding aims to support restoration efforts and mitigate future risks related to chum and sockeye salmon failures.
Additionally, we'll provide an update on improvements in Alaska's food aid program. State officials report that the backlog of SNAP applications has been cleared, with a significant increase in on-time processing. We'll look at the measures taken to achieve this improvement and future plans for the program.
Lastly, we highlight an upcoming event for animal lovers. Juneau Animal Rescue is hosting a Meet & Greet at Treadwell Arena on June 29, featuring adoptable cats and dogs, agility course demonstrations, and educational sessions on responsible pet ownership. It's an opportunity to find a new pet and support animal welfare in the community.
What is Local First News (News of the North)?
In the heart of Juneau and across Southeast Alaska, Local First News stands as the leading source of news and information. Dedicated to bringing you the most current and impactful stories, we delve deep into the events that shape our communities. From breaking news in Juneau to transformative developments across Southeast Alaska, our commitment is to keep you informed with precise and timely details.
Our dynamic team of journalists is on the ground, ensuring that every story is covered from every angle. Whether it's a local initiative in Juneau that promises to enhance community life, an environmental concern affecting the pristine wilderness of Southeast Alaska, or a cultural event celebrating our rich heritage, Local First News is there.
We understand the pulse of Southeast Alaska. Our coverage not only highlights the issues but also celebrates the triumphs of our communities. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy and immediacy, Local First News is your most reliable source for news that matters to you because when it comes to news in Juneau and Southeast Alaska, we believe in putting Local First.