Local First News (News of the North)

A pedestrian accident on Douglas Highway in Juneau early yesterday involved a 69-year-old woman driving a red Honda CRV and a 61-year-old male pedestrian, who was critically injured and transported to Bartlett Regional Hospital. Both lanes near Cordova Street were closed for two hours as police and rescue teams responded. The Juneau Police Department’s Major Accident Response Team is investigating the incident.

In the final week of Alaska’s U.S. House race, campaigns have started airing ads aimed at supporters of lesser-known candidates. Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola’s campaign has released ads endorsing Alaskan Independence Party candidate John Wayne Howe to draw votes away from her main Republican opponent, Nick Begich. Similarly, Republicans have encouraged progressive voters to support the Democratic candidate Eric Hafner, who is currently imprisoned and likely ineligible to serve. These strategies have stirred reactions from both parties as Election Day nears.

Alaska’s population held steady in 2023, with a slight increase and lower birth and death rates. Births continued to decline, with 9,022 babies born this year compared to 9,832 in 2019. Oliver and Charlotte were the most popular baby names in Alaska. Seniors now represent 15% of the state’s population, and males comprise 52% of residents, the highest percentage in any U.S. state. The state’s leading causes of death remain cancer, heart disease, and accidents.

A report by Alaska’s Department of Health reveals that 70% of adults in the state are overweight or obese, with chronic conditions like high blood pressure linked to Alaska’s leading causes of death. The report also found that many high school students are overweight, and 40% of women over 40 have missed recent mammograms. To support health, the report encourages lifestyle changes and wellness policies, with programs like Fresh Start and Play Every Day promoting fitness and disease prevention.

Juneau RecycleWorks and Juneau Composts are partnering for a fourth year to collect pumpkins for composting. Drop-off bins will be available from November 1 through November 16 at the Recycling Center on Tonsgard Court, operating Tuesday to Saturday. Pumpkins must be decoration-free to be composted.

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.