Wasilla, Alaska: A four-car crash near mile 62 of the Parks Highway killed two people Thursday evening and shut down the road for more than four hours. Alaska State Troopers say a Subaru station wagon driven by 52-year-old Wasilla resident Saranne Twitchell crossed into oncoming traffic and struck three vehicles, the report says. AST was notified of the incident around 5:04 p.m.
Twitchell was declared deceased while en route to the hospital. The sole occupant of the second vehicle Twitchell struck, a 16-year-old male, was declared deceased at the scene. The collision involved multiple vehicles and left traffic backed up for miles as investigators worked through the night. Officials noted speed and possible alcohol use as contributing factors. The highway has since reopened, though authorities warn of dangerous driving conditions as fall weather worsens.
🧗 Alaska Climber Dies on Yosemite’s El Capitan
Balin Miller, a 23-year-old climber from Anchorage and Palmer, died October 1 while attempting a solo ascent of Yosemite’s famed El Capitan. Known online as the “orange tent guy,” Miller had gained attention for bold climbs across Alaska. Rangers say his rope was too short during a rappel, causing a fatal fall. Friends and fellow climbers are remembering him as an adventurous spirit and rising talent in the climbing world.
✈️ Anchorage Gains New Air Service
New seasonal service will open fresh routes, boost connectivity, and shake up the Alaska skies
Southwest Airlines is bringing a big change to Alaskan air travel: in May 2026, it will launch seasonal flights to Anchorage’s Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC), marking the first time the carrier serves The Great Land. Here’s what the press release reveals and what it means for Alaskans.
✈️ The Details
- Launch timing: May 2026, with flights operating seasonally
- Key routes: Initial service will include destinations in the lower 48 (Denver is one confirmed route).
- Aircraft & operations: Southwest will use 737-series aircraft, integrating Anchorage within its operational hub framework.
- Purpose: The move is billed as a strategic expansion, not only to connect Alaska, but to deepen the “long-term bonds between the Lower 48 and the Last Frontier.”
1. More options, more competition
For years, Alaska Airlines has dominated air links to and from the state. Southwest’s entry could mean better pricing, more flight windows, and fresh competition on key routes.
2. Improved connectivity for regional communities
Though Southwest will fly out of Anchorage, the ripple effects may reach smaller hubs. Passengers from interior and the bush could benefit via connecting flights, reduced transfer times, and potentially lower fares.
3. Tourism boost & economic upside
Greater route access can bring more visitors (especially in peak summer months), helping local businesses, lodgings, and service industries. Plus, cargo/shipping opportunities might widen as more carriers and networks touch Alaska.
4. Challenges ahead
Operating in Alaska, with Arctic weather, remote infrastructure, and high operational costs, isn’t easy. Southwest will need to coordinate with state regulators, local airports, and logistics partners to ensure smooth service.
🧾 Boroughs Eye Higher Sales Taxes
Across Southeast Alaska, local governments are weighing higher sales taxes to fund services:
- Skagway may raise its summer rate from 5% to 7%.
- Haines could hike townsite sales tax to 7% during the tourist season, with groceries partially exempt.
- Ketchikan residents will vote on extending portions of its local tax through 2032 to support school projects.
- Petersburg is considering narrowing senior sales tax exemptions to only cover low-income seniors.
Officials argue the changes are necessary to keep up with infrastructure and public service needs.
👀 What to Watch
- Results of sales tax ballot measures in Southeast boroughs.
- Southwest’s detailed flight schedules and pricing for Anchorage.
- Ongoing trooper investigation into the Parks Highway crash.
- Memorials and climbing community tributes to Balin Miller.
“Direction is so much more important than speed. Many are going nowhere fast.”
― Germany Kent
