Local First News (News of the North)

Denali Climbers in Crisis: Efforts to rescue two hypothermic climbers stranded at 19,600 feet on Denali continue to be hampered by severe weather. The climbers, part of a Malaysian team, have been in a snow cave since Tuesday night, dealing with exhaustion and hypothermia. Despite communication challenges, rescue teams remain on standby, waiting for conditions to improve.

Support for Trump Amid Conviction: Following Donald Trump's conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records, the three Republican candidates for Alaska’s U.S. House seat have voiced their support for the former president. With the candidate filing deadline approaching and Trump’s sentencing set for July 11, this issue adds a new layer of complexity to the race.

Alaska’s Changing Rivers: A new study reveals that rivers and streams in Alaska are changing color from clear blue to rusty orange due to toxic metals released by thawing permafrost. This environmental shift poses significant risks to aquatic life and local communities dependent on these water sources.

Natural Gas Project Controversy: Two environmental groups are challenging the Biden administration’s approval of a new natural gas project in Alaska, citing potential harm to endangered species and insufficient environmental review. The $39 billion project aims to transport natural gas from the North Slope to markets in Asia, but faces legal and environmental hurdles.

Hoverboard Dentist's License Revoked: The Alaska Supreme Court has upheld the suspension of former dentist Seth Lookhart’s license. Lookhart, infamous for extracting a tooth while riding a hoverboard, has been convicted of numerous crimes, including Medicaid fraud. His appeal against the revocation was denied, and he remains in prison with further appeals pending.

Community Park Improvements: Join CBJ Parks & Recreation and Corvus Design at Steelhead Park on Thursday, June 13, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for an informal public meeting about park improvements. Enjoy free barbecue, games, and prizes while sharing your ideas on enhancing the park.
Stay tuned for more detailed coverage and insights on these stories in today’s episode.

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.