This editorial was first seen in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner:

The Alaska Railroad received about half of what it asked for from the Alaska Legislature to keep moving ahead on the major technological upgrade known as “positive train control.”

The $19 million inserted by the House into the capital budget is far short of the $35 million the railroad asked for to keep the project going for the next two years.

As a result, expect the railroad to be back in Juneau next year seeking more funds, as it struggles to regain financial stability.

I was surprised to learn about a recent party in Juneau and to see photos online of many respectable citizens at the event dressed in Asian wear complete with kimonos, red lips, and white faces. Minority voices asked about the event and questioned the appropriation and stereotyping of a minority group. I thought that the public discussion about race, privilege and appropriation that initially occurred in response to the minority voices was healthy.

This editorial first ran in the Ketchikan Daily News:

The Legislature always leaves something to do next session.

One of those “things” is Senate Bill 74; its intent is the way for Alaska in the foreseeable future.

SB74, which establishes a University Building fund, is designed to inspire efficiency within the university system.

Patterned after the Alaska Public Building fund of 2000, the legislation would have required university departments to pay for their space.

This editorial first appeared in the Ketchikan Daily News:

When it comes to the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend, Alaskans are all ears.

Now hear this.

The state Legislature changed the PFD rules in its most recent session, and key among them was strengthening the guidelines for dividend recipients living out of state. To that, we say, amen.