September-Issue-1 2011

 

Archive »AJC Issue Archive Departments

Bank of America to charge $5/month for debit cards

Bank of America to charge $5/month for debit cards

Candice Choi, AP Personal Finance Writer
Economy grew at weak 1.3 pct. annual rate in Q2

Economy grew at weak 1.3 pct. annual rate in Q2

The economy grew slightly faster in the spring than previously estimated but remained dangerously weak in the face of high unemployment and higher gas prices.
Martin Crutsinger, AP Economics Writer

Judge upholds state permit system, denies claims against Pebble

Superior Court Judge Eric Aarseth finds allegations of harm unpersuasive and speculative.
Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce
House GOP regroups after loss on spending bill

House GOP regroups after loss on spending bill

House Republicans grappled Thursday with ways to revive a must pass measure to provide billions of dollars in much-needed disaster relief and prevent a government shutdown at the end of next week.
Andrew Taylor, Associated Press
Air Force returns 170 grounded F-22s to service

Air Force returns 170 grounded F-22s to service

The nation's F-22 fighter jets went back into service Wednesday, four months after they were grounded over pilot complaints about a lack of oxygen.
Mark Thiessen, Associated Press

Tug boat reattaches to loose fuel barge off Alaska

Calmer weather allowed a tugboat to reattach a tow line Wednesday to a fuel barge that had that broken loose off Alaska's west coast, the Coast Guard reported.
Dan Joling, Associated Press

Officials float idea of using Susitna in AMHS

While the Matanuska-Susitna Borough tries to find a way to get its innovative $78 million ferry Susitna into operation, it sits unused at a Ketchikan dock at a cost of $1.4 million a year.
Pat Forgey, Juneau Empire

Treasury probes $528M loan to bankrupt solar firm

The Treasury Department's inspector general has opened an investigation of a $528 million government loan to Solyndra Inc., the now-bankrupt solar panel manufacturer once cited as a model of the Obama administration's clean energy program.
Matthew Daly, Associated Press

Credit card defaults, late payments continue slide

It was a bumpy summer for credit card issuers, but most of the top banks reported that their customers continued to make their payments on time.
Eileen Connelly, AP Personal Finance Writer

Oil hovers near $89 amid signs of weak US demand

Oil prices hovered near $89 a barrel Thursday, supported by a weaker dollar and rising stock markets in Europe even with signs of sluggish U.S. consumer demand
Pablo Gorondi, Associated Press
ESSAY: Post-9/11 ‘new normal’ looks much like old

ESSAY: Post-9/11 ‘new normal’ looks much like old

In the crucible of Sept. 11, no one could imagine things would ever be the same again.
By Calvin Woodward, Associated Press

Parnell signs bill doubling size of Southeast State Forest

The Southeast State Forest will double in size with Gov. Sean Parnell’s signature Sept. 7 of a bill that adds about 23,000 acres to the forest, bringing it to nearly 49,000 acres.
By Pat Forgey, Juneau Empire
Economic analysis of controversial halibut plan easier said than done

Economic analysis of controversial halibut plan easier said than done

Comments being made about the halibut catch sharing plan currently under consideration by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Area 3A, the central Gulf of Alaska including Cook Inlet and Homer, frequently identify the need for an economic impact analysis.
McKibben Jackinsky, Homer News

Archive »Real Estate

Revitalizing downtown Fairbanks

Revitalizing downtown Fairbanks

Local business and city leaders are working to get more people in downtown Fairbanks, back to the Interior city's core business district and the center of its history.
By Tim Bradner

Archive »Transportation

Transportation extensions pass, state plans for 2013 cuts

Transportation extensions pass, state plans for 2013 cuts

Congress may have met deadlines for once again passing short-term extensions for aviation and highway funding, but state transportation officials agree this is no way to run a railroad.
By Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce
Ketchikan shipyard to help with new state ferry

Ketchikan shipyard to help with new state ferry

JUNEAU — Alaska state officials announced Sept. 12 a deal they hope will lead to the newest state ferry being built in Ketchikan, and likely even lead to future business for the state-owned shipyard there.
By Pat Forgey, Juneau Empire/Morris News Service-Alaska

Initial reports on Ambler mining area road due soon

State transportation officials are preparing to release information — including preliminary cost estimates, and summaries of engineering and environmental issues — for a road built to the Ambler mining district in Northwest Alaska.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce
Paris readies electric car-sharing program

Paris readies electric car-sharing program

Paris is preparing to flip the switch on what aims to be one of the world's largest electric car-sharing programs.

Tug boat reattaches to loose fuel barge off Alaska

Calmer weather allowed a tugboat to reattach a tow line Wednesday to a fuel barge that had that broken loose off Alaska's west coast, the Coast Guard reported.
Dan Joling, Associated Press

Two new leases approved for Port MacKenzie by the Mat-Su Borough

A second new lease in a month was approved for Port MacKenzie at Tuesday night’s Assembly meeting.
Journal of Commerce
Senate extends aviation, highway programs

Senate extends aviation, highway programs

The Senate passed a bill Thursday temporarily extending federal aviation and highway programs, averting another shutdown of the Federal Aviation Administration, after a Republican senator abruptly dropped his campaign to block passage of the measure.
JOAN LOWY, Associated Press

Officials float idea of using Susitna in AMHS

While the Matanuska-Susitna Borough tries to find a way to get its innovative $78 million ferry Susitna into operation, it sits unused at a Ketchikan dock at a cost of $1.4 million a year.
Pat Forgey, Juneau Empire

House passes FAA extensions

The House on Tuesday approved a stopgap bill intended to avoid a shutdown of federal highway and aviation programs, with Senate action expected later this week.
Alaska’s economic development potential highlighted

Alaska’s economic development potential highlighted

Peonies and movies may be among Alaska’s newest economic drivers in the coming years.
By the Journal of Commerce

Archive »Tourism

Theme parks cash in on guests' Halloween screams

Theme parks cash in on guests' Halloween screams

Universal Orlando's first foray into Halloween Horror Nights 21 years ago involved one weekend, a single haunted house tucked away in the back of the park by the "Jaws" ride and some people in store-bought masks jumping out of dark corners.
MITCH STACY,Associated Press
Early figures indicate cruise passengers down

Early figures indicate cruise passengers down

Preliminary figures indicate that Alaska saw fewer cruise ship passengers this year.
BECKY BOHRER,Associated Press
7 tips for saving on holiday flying and lodging

7 tips for saving on holiday flying and lodging

Flying over the holidays is going to cost more this year. And the longer you wait to book, the pricier it's likely to get.
SCOTT MAYEROWITZ,AP Airlines Writer
Armrest wars: Flights are fuller than ever

Armrest wars: Flights are fuller than ever

Don't expect much elbow room on flights this fall. Planes have never been so full.
SCOTT MAYEROWITZ,AP Airlines Writer

Wisconsin wineries diversify and grow

Northeastern Wisconsin's wine country continues to grow. Not only is there another new winery this year, but also existing wineries are looking for new ways to grow their revenue.
RICHARD RYMAN,Green Bay Press-Gazette

Sealaska inventories artifacts at British Museum

A team from the Sealaska Heritage Institute has documented Tlingit and Haida artifacts at the British Museum in London.

Archive »Construction Articles

COMMENTARY: Right contractor can help with any major remodeling work

COMMENTARY: Right contractor can help with any major remodeling work

Remodeling isn’t just for redoing kitchens and baths. Sometimes, you want to raise the roof — and occasionally the whole house.
By Robert Squires

COMMENTARY: Home builders urge city to improve permitting process

For several years now we at the Anchorage Home Builders Association (AHBA) have been experiencing difficulties in getting timely service from the municipality of Anchorage (MOA) Department of Development Services.
By Andre Spinelli President, Anchorage Home Builders Association
Shocker: Power demand from US homes is falling

Shocker: Power demand from US homes is falling

NEW YORK (AP) — American homes are more cluttered than ever with devices, and they all need power: Cellphones and iPads that have to be charged, DVRs that run all hours, TVs that light up in high definition.
By Jonathan Fahey, AP Energy Writer
Construction job demand promising in Homer

Construction job demand promising in Homer

Foundations going in, walls going up, roofs going on. Who knew this year's construction season was going to be so busy? Not Steve Bowen of Little Knife Construction. Every job that came Bowen's way this spring, he took.
MCKIBBEN JACKINSKY and MICHAEL ARMSTRONG, Homer News
Special Delivery

Special Delivery

Construction workers with Davis Constructors & Engineers Inc. raise the I beam into place during the topping-out ceremony for the new mother-baby tower at Providence Alaska Medical Center.

KABATA workshop draws over 100 companies

The Knik Arm Bridge construction projects seems to be drawing strong interest. About 100 participants attended a pre-statement of qualifications workshop late last month to get a feel for the work involved.
By the Journal of Commerce

Archive »Oil & Gas

Shale oil could be ‘game changer’ for Slope

Shale oil could be a “game changer” for the Alaska North Slope, and the state Department of Natural Resources is moving to facilitate shale development and find answers to problems that could impede it.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

DNR commissioner: Oil investments must ramp up

The petroleum industry has to ratchet up Alaska investments in new exploration and development to at least $4 billion a year if the decline in oil production is to be reversed, state Commissioner of Natural Resources Dan Sullivan says.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Great Bear hopes to drill four shale oil test wells on Slope

Great Bear Petroleum LLC has filed a plan of exploration with the state Division of Oil and Gas for approvals of six drilling locations on the North Slope, and says it hopes to drill up to four exploration wells this winter on the North Slope to test its concept of producing oil from shale formations, Ed Duncan, the company’s president, told the Alaska Oil and Gas Congress, an energy conference in Anchorage Sept. 20.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce
APNewsBreak: Texas refineries may get back $135M

APNewsBreak: Texas refineries may get back $135M

Three commissioners appointed by Gov. Rick Perry may grant some of the nation's largest refineries a tax refund of more than $135 million — money Texas' cash-strapped schools and other local governments have been counting on to help pay teachers and provide other public services.
RAMIT PLUSHNICK-MASTI,Associated Press

Tug boat reattaches to loose fuel barge off Alaska

Calmer weather allowed a tugboat to reattach a tow line Wednesday to a fuel barge that had that broken loose off Alaska's west coast, the Coast Guard reported.
Dan Joling, Associated Press

Department working to strengthen tax cut position

Alaska's Revenue Department is working to strengthen the Parnell administration's argument for cutting oil production taxes.
Becky Bohrer, Associated Press

Two new leases approved for Port MacKenzie by the Mat-Su Borough

A second new lease in a month was approved for Port MacKenzie at Tuesday night’s Assembly meeting.
Journal of Commerce

Oil falls more than 2 percent on Europe concerns

Oil dropped more than 2 percent Monday on growing concerns about Europe's ability to solve its credit crisis.
CHRIS KAHN,AP Energy Writer
Alaska hire: Legislators drill into hiring practices of oil companies

Alaska hire: Legislators drill into hiring practices of oil companies

State legislators held hearings in Fairbanks and Anchorage Sept. 6 and 8 to drill into hiring practices of North Slope oil producers and contractors and to listen to complaints about nonresidents working in high-paying industry jobs that should be filled by Alaska workers.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce
Shell’s Alaska investment nears $4B

Shell’s Alaska investment nears $4B

Shell Oil’s investment in its Arctic offshore exploration will reach the $4 billion threshold sometime this fall, but the company is now more optimistic than ever that it will receive the needed permits to do exploration drilling in 2012.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Consultant report criticizes Alyeska maintenance systems in Valdez terminal

A maintenance audit of the Valdez Marine Terminal commissioned by the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council gives credit to Alyeska Pipeline Service Co.’s maintenance workers but faults the pipeline company’s maintenance management system.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce
Nome spill

Nome spill

Caution tape stretches in front of the scene where a vessel towing a barge drifted into channel rocks after its propeller became disabled, in Nome.
BP sees good results with Ugnu heavy oil production test

BP sees good results with Ugnu heavy oil production test

The first of four test production wells drilled by BP into the large Ugnu heavy oil deposit on the North Slope is performing well. This is significant because unconventional resources like heavy oil could make a major contribution to future North Slope production, but producing companies have to first figure out whether this oil, which is thick and lower quality, can be even produced.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce
Doyon leads in Interior exploration

Doyon leads in Interior exploration

The results of geochemical sampling across wide areas of the Yukon Flats show new evidence there is oil and well as natural gas in the region, according to Doyon Ltd., the Interior Alaska Native regional corporation exploring in the area.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Gas prices drive rise in CPI; housing costs outpace nation

Persistently high gas prices have Americans on track to spend a record $491 billion to fill up their tanks in 2011 and are contributing to a spike in the Consumer Price Index across the nation and in Anchorage.
By Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Oil hovers near $89 amid signs of weak US demand

Oil prices hovered near $89 a barrel Thursday, supported by a weaker dollar and rising stock markets in Europe even with signs of sluggish U.S. consumer demand
Pablo Gorondi, Associated Press

New ND oil trust fund starts with meager earnings

North Dakota sets up new state oil tax trust fund similar to Alaska's.
DALE WETZEL,Associated Press

Industry: Boost energy to create jobs

Government policies to increase domestic energy production could create up to a million jobs over the next seven years, the oil industry said in a report issued a day before President Barack Obama delivers a major speech on jobs.
Matthew Daly, Associated Press

Alyeska warns of more stoppages for pipeline

Alyeska Pipeline Service Co.’s president has warned that more frequent Trans-Alaska Pipeline System interruptions are likely as the pipeline company grapples with problems related to low throughput and increased maintenance needs.
Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Repsol prepares to start work on its various lease holdings

Spanish major Repsol is planning an aggressive North Slope exploration drilling program this winter to evaluate almost half a million onshore and offshore acres in leases acquired last March from two independents, Armstrong Oil and Gas and GMT Exploration.
Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Escopta now drilling in Inlet, state limits well to 5,000 feet

Escopta Oil Co. is now drilling at its KLU No. 1 exploration well in Cook Inlet with the Spartan Drilling Co.’s Blake 151 jack-up rig, but state officials have given the company permission to drill only to 5,000 feet.
Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

State delays Slope lease sale, hoping to add acreage

The state will delay a North Slope lease sale planned for Oct. 26 for a few weeks with hopes that more acreage can be added and more companies can be enticed to bid for leases.
Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce
Shell’s Alaska investment nears $4 billion, more confident on exploration

Shell’s Alaska investment nears $4 billion, more confident on exploration

Shell Oil’s investment in its Arctic offshore exploration will reach the $4 billion threshold sometime this fall, but the company is now more optimistic than ever that it will receive the needed permits to do exploration drilling in 2012.
Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Oil tumbles on fears of economic slump

Oil dropped more than 2 percent Tuesday on fears that the U.S. and Europe are headed for a prolonged economic slump.
CHRIS KAHN,AP Energy Writer

Oil down 2 percent on discouraging jobs report

Oil prices fell Friday along with the prospects for global economic growth as the government reported the economy added no jobs last month.
JONATHAN FAHEY,AP Energy Writer

Gasoline close to record high before Labor Day

Gasoline is near the highest it's ever been for this time of year, just ahead of the Labor Day weekend.
CHRIS KAHN,AP Energy Writer

State looks to streamline new oil development

The state Division of Oil and Gas is working on ideas for regulatory reforms and other steps that will boost oil and gas exploration and remove roadblocks to development of small oil accumulations, Bill Barron, the division director, told Anchorage business leaders in a briefing.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Buccaneer starts drilling second Kenai Peninsula gas well

Buccaneer Energy Ltd. has begun drilling on a second gas well at its new Kenai Loop project on the Kenai Peninsula south of Anchorage, the company said Aug. 29.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Propane has potential to power state, drive down energy costs

Hank Hill only wishes he could have sold this propane accessory. The television dad from the long-running cartoon series “King of the Hill” was never shy about lauding the benefits of propane — and propane accessories — for grilling and home heating.
By Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Archive »Telecom

Bid to block AT&T deal reflects telecom industry

Bid to block AT&T deal reflects telecom industry

The Obama administration has explained its effort to block AT&T's purchase of T-Mobile USA by saying it will fight mergers that would reduce competition and hurt consumers.
DANIEL WAGNER and PETE YOST, Associated Press

Archive »Technology

Avatar-class 3D comes to Alaska studio

Avatar-class 3D comes to Alaska studio

The biggest movie yet filmed in Alaska has gotten a boost from the biggest director in Hollywood.
By Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Ultrasecret satellite spy shop NRO turns 50

WASHINGTON (AP) — As it turns 50, the ultra-secretive National Reconnaissance Office is putting a multibillion-dollar misstep behind it and casting its spy satellites on new enemies, from al-Qaida bomb planters to North Korean nuclear engineers, according to its chief.
By Kimberly Dozier, AP Intelligence Writer
US gets chance to catch up on credit card security

US gets chance to catch up on credit card security

NEW YORK (AP) — The next time you swipe your credit card at check-out, consider this: It’s a ritual the rest of the world deems outdated and unsafe.
By Peter Svensson, AP Technology Writer
IBM putting Watson to work in health insurance

IBM putting Watson to work in health insurance

Enough with the fun and games. Watson is going to work. IBM's supercomputer system, best known for trouncing the world's best "Jeopardy!" players on TV, is being tapped by one of the nation's largest health insurers to help diagnose medical problems and authorize treatments.
JIM FITZGERALD,Associated Press
Invention site Quirky finds genius in the masses

Invention site Quirky finds genius in the masses

At first glance, the offices of Quirky Inc. appear much like those of any number of Internet startups.
JAKE COYLE, AP Entertainment Writer
Startup tries to put sociability back into movies

Startup tries to put sociability back into movies

Streaming movies might not yet have the equivalent of a theater experience, with roaring crowds crunching on popcorn, but they are getting more social.
JAKE COYLE, AP Entertainment Writer
Sony shows wearable 3-D personal theater

Sony shows wearable 3-D personal theater

Sony says it will start selling a head mounted display that provides a 3-D theater of music videos, movies and games, targeting people who prefer solitary entertainment rather than sitting in front of a TV with family or friends.
YURI KAGEYAMA, AP Business Writer
Yahoo fires Bartz as CEO, names CFO to fill void

Yahoo fires Bartz as CEO, names CFO to fill void

Yahoo Inc. fired Carol Bartz as CEO Tuesday after more than 2½ years of financial lethargy that had convinced investors that she couldn't steer the Internet company to a long-promised turnaround.
MICHAEL LIEDTKE,AP Technology Writer
CEO hops in a Zipcar, not the bandwagon

CEO hops in a Zipcar, not the bandwagon

Scott Griffith came to Zipcar when it was a struggling startup, with all the excitement and anxiety that usually entails. Engineers worked in the conference room because there wasn’t any other space, and new customers could stop by on Tuesday nights to eat pizza and learn how to use the new car-sharing service.
By Christina Rexrode, AP Business Writer

Archive »Alaska Politics

Researchers pay fine for Alaska sea lion intrusion

By Dan Joling, Associated Press
Analysis: Alaska gains under Obama's jobs proposal

Analysis: Alaska gains under Obama's jobs proposal

A Democratic analysis suggests Alaska could stand to gain hundreds of millions of dollars in new infrastructure investment and thousands of new jobs under the president's new jobs proposal. Republican members of Alaska's congressional delegation responded coolly to the plan.
BECKY BOHRER,Associated Press
Alaska lt. gov's campaign could face $9K fine

Alaska lt. gov's campaign could face $9K fine

Lt. Gov. Mead Treadwell's campaign committee could be fined more than $9,600 over its financial disclosures, including the alleged receipt of advertising discounts.
BECKY BOHRER,Associated Press

State moving ahead with health exchange plan

The state of Alaska plans to solicit consultants to help design a health insurance exchange.
BECKY BOHRER, Associated Press

Assembly moves to investigate options on Petersburg borough formation

The city and borough of Juneau made a move to start researching a legal response to Petersburg’s filing to become a borough and it will likely counter Petersburg’s proposal to incorporate areas like Hobart Bay.
By Sarah Day, Juneau Empire/Morris News Service-Alaska
Begich optimistic congressional super committee will reach agreement

Begich optimistic congressional super committee will reach agreement

Alaska U.S. Sen. Mark Begich says he’s cautiously optimistic that the congressional super committee of 12 will be able to craft a plan for budget reductions by a Nov. 23 federal deadline.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Archive »National Politics

Angling to be VP: GOPers run — without campaigning

Angling to be VP: GOPers run — without campaigning

They're writing books. They're making speeches. They're fawning over the big dogs. It's all part of the Campaign That Shall Not Be Known As a Campaign.
NANCY BENAC,Associated Press
Hundreds of plants, animals up for new protections

Hundreds of plants, animals up for new protections

The Obama administration is taking steps to extend new federal protections to a list of imperiled animals and plants that reads like a manifest for Noah's Ark — from the melodic golden-winged warbler and slow-moving gopher tortoise, to the slimy American eel and tiny Texas kangaroo rat.
Matthew Brown, Associated Press
Analysis: Is government's role to fix economy?

Analysis: Is government's role to fix economy?

The economy needs to be fixed. On this, Democrats and Republicans agree. They part ways over how to do it and, specifically, what role the federal government should play.
LIZ SIDOTI,AP Political Editor
On spending, Congress can't agree on easy stuff

On spending, Congress can't agree on easy stuff

Congress is once again allowing shutdown politics to bring the federal government to the brink of closing. For the second time in nine months, lawmakers are bickering and posturing over spending plans.
LAURIE KELLMAN,Associated Press
House GOP regroups after loss on spending bill

House GOP regroups after loss on spending bill

House Republicans grappled Thursday with ways to revive a must pass measure to provide billions of dollars in much-needed disaster relief and prevent a government shutdown at the end of next week.
Andrew Taylor, Associated Press
Air Force returns 170 grounded F-22s to service

Air Force returns 170 grounded F-22s to service

The nation's F-22 fighter jets went back into service Wednesday, four months after they were grounded over pilot complaints about a lack of oxygen.
Mark Thiessen, Associated Press

FACT CHECK: Are rich taxed less than secretaries?

President Barack Obama makes it sound as if there are millionaires all over America paying taxes at lower rates than their secretaries.
STEPHEN OHLEMACHER,Associated Press
GOP-led states change voting rules ahead of 2012

GOP-led states change voting rules ahead of 2012

After years of expanding when and how people can vote, state legislatures now under new Republican control are moving to trim early voting days, beef up identification requirements and put new restrictions on how voters are notified about absentee ballots.
ANN SANNER,Associated Press
Boehner says he sleeps well, doesn't get angry

Boehner says he sleeps well, doesn't get angry

House Speaker John Boehner describes himself as "a pretty simple guy" who sleeps well at night and doesn't get angry despite the frustrations of working with a Democratic president and his own often-recalcitrant Republican colleagues.
JIM ABRAMS,Associated Press

Treasury probes $528M loan to bankrupt solar firm

The Treasury Department's inspector general has opened an investigation of a $528 million government loan to Solyndra Inc., the now-bankrupt solar panel manufacturer once cited as a model of the Obama administration's clean energy program.
Matthew Daly, Associated Press
Perry facing new criticism for Texas vaccine order

Perry facing new criticism for Texas vaccine order

Four years ago, Gov. Rick Perry put aside his social conservative bona fides and signed an order requiring Texas girls to be vaccinated against HPV.
CHRIS TOMLINSON,Associated Press
Romney's aggressive approach here to stay

Romney's aggressive approach here to stay

An assertive Mitt Romney has emerged in the GOP presidential race. The former Massachusetts governor has shown little willingness to assail his Republican competitors over the past few months, focusing all of his criticism on President Barack Obama. But in one night, Romney became the most prominent aggressor in a growing effort by the GOP field to derail front-runner Rick Perry
STEVE PEOPLES,Associated Press
Nation's food anti-terror plans costly, unwieldy

Nation's food anti-terror plans costly, unwieldy

An Associated Press analysis of the programs found that the government has spent at least $3.4 billion on food counter-terrorism in the last decade, but key programs have been bogged down in a huge, multi-headed bureaucracy.
GARANCE BURKE,Associated Press
To understand redistricting, read 'The Godfather'

To understand redistricting, read 'The Godfather'

"Redistricting is politics in the raw. To understand it, you don't need to read 'The Federalist Papers.' You need to read 'The Godfather.'"
HENRY C. JACKSON,Associated Press
Obama tax cut would boost typical pay by $1,500

Obama tax cut would boost typical pay by $1,500

Typical workers would get an extra $1,500 in their paychecks next year under a plan by President Barack Obama to expand a payroll tax cut that is scheduled expire at the end of the year. Higher paid workers would get more, and businesses would get tax breaks, too.
STEPHEN OHLEMACHER,Associated Press
Congress returns to fight over jobs, budget cuts

Congress returns to fight over jobs, budget cuts

Fights large and small await Congress as it gets back to business, with jobs and budget cuts topping a contentious agenda that also includes a lengthy roster of lower-profile but must-do items that also are potential victims of partisan gridlock.
ANDREW TAYLOR,Associated Press
Poll: OK to trade some freedoms to fight terrorism

Poll: OK to trade some freedoms to fight terrorism

Surveillance cameras in public places? Sure. Body scans at airports? Maybe. Snooping in personal email? Not so fast.
JENNIFER AGIESTA and NANCY BENAC, Associated Press
Obama halts controversial EPA regulation

Obama halts controversial EPA regulation

President Barack Obama on Friday scrapped his administration's controversial plans to tighten smog rules, bowing to the demands of congressional Republicans and some business leaders.
DINA CAPPIELLO and JULIE PACE, Associated Press
Palin fuels presidential fire, but at what cost?

Palin fuels presidential fire, but at what cost?

Sarah Palin soon will end the will-she-or-won't-she presidential speculation that has trailed her for two years — and that she has fueled with abandon, perhaps to the detriment of her potential candidacy.
BECKY BOHRER,Associated Press

Archive »Money Talks

US incomes fall for first time in nearly 2 years

Americans earned less last month, the first decline in nearly two years. With less income, consumers could cut back on spending and weaken an already-fragile economy.
MARTIN CRUTSINGER,AP Economics Writer
Rate on 30-year mortgage falls to record 4.09 pct.

Rate on 30-year mortgage falls to record 4.09 pct.

Fixed mortgage rates fell to the lowest level in six decades for the second straight week. But few Americans can take advantage of the historically low rates.
DEREK KRAVITZ,AP Economics Writer

Biggest blind spot for car buyers? Financing

Car buyers are getting smarter about negotiating prices. Securing cheap financing is another matter.
CANDICE CHOI,AP Personal Finance Writer
Developed nations look to restore growth

Developed nations look to restore growth

The financial leaders of the world's most developed economies were wrangling Friday over how to revive a faltering economic recovery at a time when interest rates are already low and government debt is high.
BY GABRIELE STEINHAUSER and GREG KELLER,AP Business Writers
Employers add no net jobs in Aug.; rate unchanged

Employers add no net jobs in Aug.; rate unchanged

Employers stopped adding jobs in August, an alarming setback for an economy that has struggled to grow and might be at risk of another recession.
CHRISTOPHER S. RUGABER and PAUL WISEMAN,AP Economics Writers

Big banks offer payday loans by another name

NEW YORK (AP) — Payday loans may be coming to a bank near you. They’re marketed under a different name, but a handful of major banks already let customers borrow against their paychecks for a fee. And there are signs the option may soon become more widely available.
By Candice Choi, AP Personal Finance Writer

Archive »Finance

Holiday may be a bah-humbug year for retail

Holiday may be a bah-humbug year for retail

NEW YORK (AP) — It looks like retailers will have to work extra hard to keep this holiday season from turning into a bah humbug.
Associated Press
Bank of America to charge $5/month for debit cards

Bank of America to charge $5/month for debit cards

Candice Choi, AP Personal Finance Writer
Economy grew at weak 1.3 pct. annual rate in Q2

Economy grew at weak 1.3 pct. annual rate in Q2

The economy grew slightly faster in the spring than previously estimated but remained dangerously weak in the face of high unemployment and higher gas prices.
Martin Crutsinger, AP Economics Writer
Walgreen fiscal 4th-qtr profit jumps 69 percent

Walgreen fiscal 4th-qtr profit jumps 69 percent

Drugstore operator Walgreen Co. said Tuesday its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings jumped 69 percent, boosted in part by a gain from the $525 million sale of its pharmacy benefits management business.
TOM MURPHY,AP Business Writer

Stocks may be cheap. But they can get cheaper yet

Someone is about to play the fool — Wall Street analysts or investors.
BERNARD CONDON,AP Business Writer

Coupons users trading the scissors for a mouse

There may soon come a time when clipping coupons out of the Sunday circular is a distant memory.
By David Pitt, AP Personal Finance Writer

Credit card defaults, late payments continue slide

It was a bumpy summer for credit card issuers, but most of the top banks reported that their customers continued to make their payments on time.
Eileen Connelly, AP Personal Finance Writer
Best Buy 2Q profit falls, misses view, shares drop

Best Buy 2Q profit falls, misses view, shares drop

The nation's biggest electronics retailer had performed relatively well throughout the economic downturn. But on Tuesday, Best Buy posted second-quarter profit that plunged 30 percent.
MAE ANDERSON,AP Retail Writer
Kroger, Fred Meyer parent company, 2Q net income up 7.3 pct, sales top $20B

Kroger, Fred Meyer parent company, 2Q net income up 7.3 pct, sales top $20B

Kroger Co., the nation's largest grocer, reported higher second-quarter profit, boosted by tax adjustments and strong sales of gas as customers flocked to its discount loyalty program to ease their pain at the pump.
DAN SEWELL,AP Business Writer
Swiss franc slumps; stocks drop again on US return

Swiss franc slumps; stocks drop again on US return

The Swiss franc dropped sharply Tuesday after the country's central bank pegged it against the euro, while a recovery in European stock markets proved short-lived as Wall Street opened sharply lower.
PAN PYLAS,AP Business Writer

Economy shows signs of moving past August shocks

U.S. consumers and businesses are not so worried that the economy is about to tumble into a recession after all.
CHRISTOPHER S. RUGABER,AP Economics Writer

Archive »Editorials

EDITORIAL: Open ANWR: Refuge part of deficit solution

Raising revenue without raising taxes. That’s an excellent idea if ever there was one.
By the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Rising seafood values boost tax coffers; ADFG pushing internships

Millions more dollars are being pumped into Alaska communities and state coffers by the seafood industry. All fish/shellfish catches are assessed a 3 percent raw fish tax with half remaining in the local community and half going to the State general fund disbursed at the whim of the Legislature. Based on big boosts in landings and values for many major fisheries last year and this year, there will be lots more Alaska fish bucks to go around.
By Laine Welch, For the Journal

EDITORIAL: Ketchikan urges locally made ferries, state should follow suit

No economic decision is as important to Ketchikan at the moment as the awarding of the Alaska Class Ferry contract to the local shipyard.
By Ketchikan Daily News

COMMENTARY: Home builders urge city to improve permitting process

For several years now we at the Anchorage Home Builders Association (AHBA) have been experiencing difficulties in getting timely service from the municipality of Anchorage (MOA) Department of Development Services.
By Andre Spinelli President, Anchorage Home Builders Association
COMMENTARY: Wild trading, lower stock prices marked August on Wall Street

COMMENTARY: Wild trading, lower stock prices marked August on Wall Street

It was a pretty rough month for risk assets. Investors’ mood soured early on as the debt ceiling debate lingered to the bitter end. Then the drama of an S&P downgrade of the U.S. credit rating to AA+ played out in the midst of data showing that economic growth has slowed to “stall speed” of around 1 percent or so.
By Jeff Pantages/Alaska’s Eye on Wall Street/For the Journal

COMMENTARY: Salmon forecast still coming up short on scattered pink returns

Alaska’s salmon harvest has topped 170 million fish and it is pretty clear by now that disappointing pink catches in prime producing regions will pull the season up short of the projected 203 million salmon.
Laine Welch For the Journal

COMMENTARY: Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame now accepting nominations

Standing beside the men who shaped Alaska from the far north – including men indigenous to the region – were the women who largely went unrecognized for the work they did. The Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame is rectifying that oversight today.
Gail West

EDITORIAL: Remembering 9/11, the challenges, the changes

It’s been a decade. You probably still remember where you were, what you were doing, the morning of Sept. 11, 2001.
Lee Leschper

Editorial: Congress must use process to address the nation's debt

Visits with Alaska's senators during this congressional recess confirmed they have a practical and realistic approach to the greatest danger facing our future generations — the federal debt.
By the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
Film’s benefits to Alaska not all on the bottom line

Film’s benefits to Alaska not all on the bottom line

Movies, books and plays often shine a light on unrecognized or unaddressed problems in our society. By giving a voice to victims and those who are vulnerable, these media can have a profound impact on our understanding of issues and awaken our resolve to effect meaningful change.
By Wanetta Ayers

Archive »Features

Meteor nights

Meteor nights

Kodiak Inn's new chef plans big changes

Kodiak Inn's new chef plans big changes

When chef Gil Turturici came to Alaska, he was looking for an adventure.Instead, he found Kodiak, and a piece of home.
JAMES BROOKS,Kodiak Daily Mirror
Rocket launches from Alaska with Navy satellite

Rocket launches from Alaska with Navy satellite

A rocket launched from an Alaska island Tuesday is carrying an experimental Navy satellite designed to provide safer combat communications.
RACHEL D'ORO,Associated Press
Coast Guard honors Sitka woman for 1950 sea rescue

Coast Guard honors Sitka woman for 1950 sea rescue

More than 60 years after helping rescue a shipwreck survivor in stormy seas, a Sitka woman was honored this month by the U.S. Coast Guard and Alaska State Troopers.
SHANNON HAUGLAND,Daily Sitka Sentinel

Missouri senator seeks review of Native contract

U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill is seeking a review of a $46 million no-bid contract awarded by NASA to an Alaska Native corporation.
RACHEL D'ORO,Associated Press
Judge backs exemption for Alaska same-sex couples

Judge backs exemption for Alaska same-sex couples

Alaska's same-sex couples are entitled to the same senior citizen and disabled veteran property tax exemptions as married couples, a state judge has ruled.
DAN JOLING,Associated Press
AK group leaves US Chamber; NC chamber did same

AK group leaves US Chamber; NC chamber did same

The chamber of commerce in a picturesque and quirky Alaska town is dumping its affiliation with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce over the national organization's right-leaning platforms.
RACHEL D'ORO,Associated Press

Alaska’s unemployment rate at 7.7% in August

Alaska’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for August was 7.7 percent, unchanged from July’s revised rate, according to the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
By the Journal of Commerce
New global killers: heart, lung disease and cancer

New global killers: heart, lung disease and cancer

What’s killing us? For decades, global health leaders have focused on diseases that can spread — AIDS, tuberculosis, new flu bugs. They pushed for vaccines, better treatments and other ways to control germs that were only a plane ride away from seeding outbreaks anywhere in the world.
By Marilynn Marchione, AP Medical Writer

Families urge action as US drafts Alzheimer’s plan

WASHINGTON (AP) — As her mother’s Alzheimer’s worsened over eight long years, so did Doreen Alfaro’s bills: The walker, then the wheelchair, then the hospital bed, then the diapers — and the caregivers hired for more and more hours a day so Alfaro could go to work and her elderly father could get some rest.
By Lauran Neergaard, AP Medical Writer

Archaeological dig turns up small clay disks

Scott Shirar headed to Noatak National Preserve in July with petroglyphs and boulders on his mind. But when the University of Alaska Fairbanks archaeologist left the Northwest Alaska preserve two weeks later, four small clay disks had stolen his attention.
JEFF RICHARDSON,Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
No more mail? What would Ben Franklin think?

No more mail? What would Ben Franklin think?

Imagine a nation without the Postal Service. No more birthday cards and bills or magazines and catalogs filling the mailbox. It's a worst-case scenario being painted for an organization that lost $8.5 billion in 2010 and seems headed deeper into the red this year.
RANDOLPH E. SCHMID,Associated Press

Fairbanks among top economies in US

A new economic index lists Fairbanks as one of 12 metropolitan statistical areas nationwide showing "sustained economic recovery."
DOROTHY CHOMICZ,Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
The Bookworm Sez: ‘Consuming’ explains why we gift

The Bookworm Sez: ‘Consuming’ explains why we gift

You weren’t looking for it. No, you were searching your calendar for something else but as you flipped the pages, there it was: Christmas. It’s coming, and though the weather still says “summer,” you’ll have to start your dreaded gift list soon.
Terri Schlichenmeyer For the Journal
ESSAY: Post-9/11 ‘new normal’ looks much like old

ESSAY: Post-9/11 ‘new normal’ looks much like old

In the crucible of Sept. 11, no one could imagine things would ever be the same again.
By Calvin Woodward, Associated Press
House for sober women could close due to financial issues

House for sober women could close due to financial issues

A house for women who are living sober that opened its doors a little more than a year ago may have to close because of financial reasons.
Dorothy Chomicz, The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

BOEMRE to fund clean-up of 400,000 pounds of debris from Alaska coast

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources has received a nearly $1 million grant from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement.
By the Journal of Commerce

Hoover, Alaska artist of Native imagery, has died

John Hoover, a revered artist in Alaska who used imagery and tales from Native traditions in contemporary works, has died at 91.
Appeals court hears arguments on gay troop ban

Appeals court hears arguments on gay troop ban

A federal appeals court wrestled Thursday with whether it can declare the military's ban on openly gay service members unconstitutional when the "don't ask, don't tell" policy is due to be lifted in 19 days.
JULIE WATSON and LISA LEFF,Associated Press
Alaska enters into budding world market

Alaska enters into budding world market

When you think of exports from Alaska, fish, lumber and zinc come to mind. Fresh cut flowers wouldn’t be on the list. They soon will be, though.
By Tim Bradner, Alaska Journal of Commerce

13th corp seeks land as way out of insolvency

Insolvent and in no position to help itself, the 13th Regional Corp. is looking to Congress and its fellow Alaska Native regional corporations for a solution that would allow it to participate in revenue sharing by receiving a land allocation of as much as 1.2 million acres.
By Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Anchorage clinic opens for Medicare patients

ANCHORAGE (AP) — A new medical clinic is open for business in south Anchorage but patients will need a Medicare card to get in. The Alaska Medicare Clinic intends to keep costs low by relying on a team of registered nurses and medical aides to spend more time with patients.

Archive »Popular Politics

Homer group leaves US Chamber; NC chamber did same

ANCHORAGE (AP) — The chamber of commerce in a picturesque and quirky Alaska town is dumping its affiliation with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce over the national organization’s right-leaning platforms.
By Rachel D’Oro, Associated Press
Obama jobs speech to propose $300B in spending

Obama jobs speech to propose $300B in spending

Facing a frustrated public and a skeptical Congress, President Barack Obama will pitch at least $300 billion in jobs proposals aimed at getting Americans back to work quickly and forcing Republicans to take a share of the responsibility for solving the country's economic woes.
Ben Feller, AP White House Correspondent

Scrutinized Choctaw Indian casino hires new auditor

PHILADELPHIA, Miss. (AP) — The casino resort owned by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians says it has hired a new auditor to provide independent review of its business and finances.

Archive »Movers and Shakers

Movers and Shakers

Evy Gebhardt

Evy Gebhardt

Corinna Muller

Corinna Muller

Alaska Airlines officers receive awards

Kathleen H. Wescott

Kathleen H. Wescott

Sharon K. Elliott

Sharon K. Elliott

Wells Fargo contributes to charities in honor of employees

Wells Fargo contributes to charities in honor of employees

S. Lane Tucker

Jacqueline Otto

Majs. George and Jeanne Baker

Majs. George and Jeanne Baker

Archive »Bulletin Board

Bulletins 9/25/11

Bulletins (week of 9/11/11)

Bulletins

Archive »Fish Bytes

Fish Bytes: Writer raises stink about Legal Sea Foods

Isn’t the whole goal of sustainable fisheries management to make sure we have plenty of tasty wild seafood to eat?
Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Fish Bytes: A chat with IPHC biologist Gregg Williams

Before the launch of the website, I would have had to wait more than a week to get a new story up. Now, I can share Williams’ thoughts with you today.
Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Archive »Mining

Alaska to mine geological past for mineral markets

Alaska is known for its oil and gas wealth, but officials believe it also holds promise for providing many of the little-known minerals and elements that play major roles in day-to-day life.
BECKY BOHRER,Associated Press

Judge upholds state permit system, denies claims against Pebble

Superior Court Judge Eric Aarseth finds allegations of harm unpersuasive and speculative.
Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Mongolia wants bigger stake in gold, copper mine

Mongolia's government is demanding a bigger stake in the massive gold and copper mine it is developing in conjunction with mining companies Rio Tinto and Ivanhoe.
GANBAT NAMJILSANGARAV,Associated Press
Washington senator asks EPA to protect Bristol Bay

Washington senator asks EPA to protect Bristol Bay

Washington Sen. Maria Cantwell said Sept. 12 she would oppose a proposed huge copper and gold mine near Alaska's Bristol Bay if studies find it would harm salmon and thus put jobs in her own state at risk.
MARY PEMBERTON,Associated Press

NovaGold increases capital cost estimates for Donlin mine

Parnell signs bill doubling size of Southeast State Forest

The Southeast State Forest will double in size with Gov. Sean Parnell’s signature Sept. 7 of a bill that adds about 23,000 acres to the forest, bringing it to nearly 49,000 acres.
By Pat Forgey, Juneau Empire

Archive »Fishery Stories

Halibut bycatch heads menu for council in Dutch Harbor

Halibut bycatch heads menu for council in Dutch Harbor

A variety of legal requirements and public pressures will weigh on the North Pacific Fishery Management Council when it convenes Sept. 28 in Dutch Harbor.
By Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

COMMENTARY: Ocean zoning gets ax, assessments get increase in NOAA budget

Fisheries are on the receiving end of federal dollars, instead of the other way around. As Congressional lawmakers slash budgets in Washington, D.C., money for all-important fishery stock assessments was actually increased from $51 million to $67 million for the next fiscal year, the amount requested by President Barack Obama.
By Laine Welch, For the Journal

Study examines availability of seafood to area residents

Soon, if they haven't already, 1,500 Kenai Peninsula residences will receive a post card from the University of Alaska Fairbanks asking them to answer six questions as part of a new study about food security on the Kenai Peninsula.
Lindsay Johnson, Homer News

Judge upholds state permit system, denies claims against Pebble

Superior Court Judge Eric Aarseth finds allegations of harm unpersuasive and speculative.
Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce
Photo exhibit brings together Homer fishermen

Photo exhibit brings together Homer fishermen

Inspired by JR's Inside Out projects, Homer and California artist Lauryn Axelrod sought a subject she thought would be less contentious. Hang out on the docks, chat up area fishermen and mariners, take their photos and then post them around town was the idea of "Faces of Fishing."
MICHAEL ARMSTRONG,Homer News
Fishermen gather to share poems, inspiration

Fishermen gather to share poems, inspiration

When commercial fishing is slow, or Rich King just has a spare moment during a slow day on the water, he reads his poems to other fisherman over the marine radio.
MOLLY DISCHNER,Peninsula Clarion

Washington, Oregon crab interests take aim at CDQs, Alaska council majority

Washington and Oregon individuals with stakes in the Bering Sea crab fishery are taking aim at the Alaska majority on the North Pacific Fishery Management Council and the Community Development Quota program.
Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Rising seafood values boost tax coffers; ADFG pushing internships

Millions more dollars are being pumped into Alaska communities and state coffers by the seafood industry. All fish/shellfish catches are assessed a 3 percent raw fish tax with half remaining in the local community and half going to the State general fund disbursed at the whim of the Legislature. Based on big boosts in landings and values for many major fisheries last year and this year, there will be lots more Alaska fish bucks to go around.
By Laine Welch, For the Journal
The volunteer club ~ Sitka style

The volunteer club ~ Sitka style

Volunteer Lydia Kindig clubs a pink salmon as she helps take eggs at the Sitka Sound Science Center’s SJ Hatchery.
Researchers pay for Alaska sea lion intrusion

Researchers pay for Alaska sea lion intrusion

A science consortium has agreed to a civil penalty of $9,000 for intruding into Alaska waters that were declared off-limits to protect endangered Steller sea lions.
DAN JOLING,Associated Press
Engineered salmon still a distant reality

Engineered salmon still a distant reality

Members of Congress are pushing to stop the Food and Drug Administration from approving genetically engineered salmon, saying not enough is known about a fish they say could harm fishery businesses in coastal states.
MARY CLARE JALONICK,Associated Press

Kenai Peninsula divided over halibut plan

Kenai Peninsula commercial fishermen and sport anglers have often had disputes about who should have the right to catch salmon.

Extension for comment period puts time squeeze on NMFS

The comment period for a proposed halibut catch sharing plan has been extended, but not by enough time to delay its potential implementation in 2012.
Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce

Fish Bytes: A chat with IPHC biologist Gregg Williams

Before the launch of the website, I would have had to wait more than a week to get a new story up. Now, I can share Williams’ thoughts with you today.
Andrew Jensen, Alaska Journal of Commerce
Economic analysis of controversial halibut plan easier said than done

Economic analysis of controversial halibut plan easier said than done

Comments being made about the halibut catch sharing plan currently under consideration by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Area 3A, the central Gulf of Alaska including Cook Inlet and Homer, frequently identify the need for an economic impact analysis.
McKibben Jackinsky, Homer News
Fish tags get smarter; processors groom next generation

Fish tags get smarter; processors groom next generation

Fish tags with iPhone technology are being used for the first time to track halibut migrations based on the earth’s magnetic field. Cash rewards of $500 are being offered to get the tags back so scientists can see how well they work.
By Laine Welch, For the Journal
Kodiak business relishes selling locally made pickled seafood

Kodiak business relishes selling locally made pickled seafood

KODIAK (AP) — A new business on Shelikof Street is providing a fresh artery to deliver Kodiak seafood to gourmet restaurants and stores across the United States. Pickled Willy’s has been operating for just five weeks, but it was almost a year and a half in the making, said co-owner Barbara Hughes.
By James Brooks, Kodiak Daily Mirror