Alaska News Nightly - Alaska Public Media

With an upcoming lease sale, what do we know about how much oil there is under ANWR's coastal plain? And, the Alaska Fire Service looks at using more firefighting crews organized in villages. Plus, the town of Wrangell shows up for a small but spirited holiday boat parade.

By land, by air or by sea … the coronavirus vaccine makes its way to communities throughout the state. And, mall Santa's are checking lists … and temperatures this year. Plus, anchorage students use storytelling to talk about mental health.

A Native American is tapped to be a cabinet secretary, for the first time ever. And, a look at the fatal commercial plane crash in Unalaska last year. Plus, artists struggle to sell their work during the pandemic.

Despite a Juneau healthcare worker's allergic reaction, Alaska officials say vaccine distribution will continue. And, Senator Murkowski urges Congress to pass a coronavirus relief bill before the holiday break. Plus, the Anchorage School District commits to start in-person learning in January.

Healthcare workers receive the first doses of the coronavirus vaccine in Alaska, kicking off a statewide campaign. And, a church in Sitka marks the national death toll of COVID-19. Plus, a post office closure in Russian Mission delays everything from checks to baby formula.

The first COVID-19 vaccine shipment is in Alaska… with vaccinations starting as soon as tomorrow. And, a look at city planning and the risk of landslides like those in Haines. Plus, Alaska's teachers on guiding students through this year's election.

Budgeting during a pandemic, the Dunleavy administration unveils its proposal for the state's next spending plan. And, the Trump administration looks to lease a private icebreaker for the Arctic. Plus, a Tlingit twist on a familiar Christmas tale.

Recent data show alarming racial disparities in which Alaskans are dying from COVID-19. And, how Anchorage's sister cities in Russia and China are experiencing the pandemic. Plus, an Anchorage candy enthusiast takes her business to the next level.

Some local leaders are unhappy with Governor's Dunleavy's reluctance to implement a mask mandate. And, a vote to close a significant portion of Upper Cook Inlet to commercial salmon fishing. Plus, how a Canadian man ended up driving an American family a thousand miles to the border.

As Americans wait for another coronavirus relief bill, Congress tries the Murkowski method. And, cleaning up after last week's landslides in Haines. Plus, should we expect more landslides in a warming climate?