AI Tries To Write The News: Juneau Public Market, Cascade Point Ferry Terminal
- Mark Sabbatini
- 10 hours ago
- 4 min read
Editor’s note: AI Tries To Write The News is a weekly feature where a commercial AI blog tool is asked to write news stories about notable local events of the past week, with excerpts of the results provided. The intent is to familiarize readers with what AI-generated news content looks like, and should not be considered factual or "reporting" in any sense other than as a basis of comparison to the human-written articles.
Stories for the week of Nov. 24
Example 1
Juneau Independent story from Nov. 29, 2025: Novel experiences and items again part of the tradition at 43rd annual Juneau Public Market
Slingshots and fossilized turtle poop aren’t items typically available in the small lending library and cafe co-operated by Leslie and Patty Kalbrener. But they were part of a whole new section of merchandise at her first-ever vendor space at the 43rd annual Juneau Public Market on Friday, in anticipation of a huge and diverse crowd of new customers.
"We have a lot of children in our house and we were looking at our wholesale distributors and stuff, and they saw these toys and they’re like ‘You have to get those,’" said Patty Kalbrener, co-president of Lodestone Library and Lounge.
Lodestone was among about 175 vendors at this year’s market that continues through Sunday at Centennial Hall and the Juneau Arts and Culture Center…
*****
AI-generated story: 43rd Annual Juneau Public Market Showcases Unique Holiday Gifts from Local and Visiting Vendors
The holiday season in Juneau is about to get brighter with the return of the 43rd Annual Juneau Public Market. Starting on Black Friday, this three-day event invites shoppers to explore a diverse collection of holiday gifts crafted by both local artisans and visiting vendors. It offers a unique opportunity to find meaningful presents while supporting the community’s creative spirit.
A Tradition of Community and Craftsmanship
For over four decades, the Juneau Public Market has been a cornerstone of the city’s holiday celebrations. It began as a small gathering of local artists and has grown into a much-anticipated event that draws visitors from across the region. The market’s mission remains clear: to provide a platform where artisans can showcase their work and where shoppers can discover gifts that carry a personal touch.
This year’s market features more than 50 vendors, including jewelry makers, woodworkers, painters, and textile artists. Many of these vendors are returning favorites, known for their high-quality craftsmanship and original designs. Newcomers bring fresh ideas and styles, ensuring that the market offers something for every taste.
What Shoppers Can Expect
The Juneau Public Market is more than just a shopping event. It’s a festive experience designed to celebrate creativity and community spirit. Visitors can expect:
Wide variety of gifts: From hand-carved wooden bowls to hand-knit scarves, the market offers a broad selection of unique items that stand out from mass-produced goods.
Local flavors: Several food vendors will offer homemade jams, baked goods, and other treats that make excellent stocking stuffers or hostess gifts.
Interactive demonstrations: Some artisans will demonstrate their craft live, giving shoppers insight into the skill and care behind each product.
Family-friendly atmosphere: The market welcomes visitors of all ages, with activities and entertainment planned throughout the weekend.
Example 2
Juneau Independent story from Nov. 29, 2025: Comment period for Cascade Point Ferry Terminal extended to Jan. 9
The public comment period for the Cascade Point Ferry Terminal, which would relocate the docking point for Alaska Marine Highway System vessels far north of the current Auke Bay terminal, has been extended by six weeks until Jan. 9.
The extension was made on Friday — the original comment deadline — by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. DOT officials could not be immediately reached on Saturday for an explanation of why the deadline was extended.
The long-discussed terminal is being advocated by the Dunleavy administration as part of a revived Juneau Access Project — declared dead by former Gov. Bill Walker in 2017 — with an eye on extending roads linked by shorter ferry routes. A recently released state economic study says the Cascade Point terminal has mixed transportation impacts, but would be a boon to a proposed gold mine and other possible development north of town…
*****
AI-generated story: Alaska Seeks Public Input on Cascade Point Ferry Terminal Development Near Juneau
The State of Alaska has opened a public comment period for the proposed Cascade Point Ferry Terminal, a new transportation project in the early planning stages north of Juneau. This initiative aims to improve ferry services in the region, connecting communities and supporting economic growth. Residents, stakeholders, and interested parties are invited to share their views and concerns as the project moves forward.
Overview of the Cascade Point Ferry Terminal Project
The Cascade Point Ferry Terminal is planned to serve as a key link in Alaska’s ferry network, which is vital for transportation in Southeast Alaska’s rugged terrain. The terminal will provide a new docking point for ferries traveling between Juneau and northern communities, reducing travel times and improving access to essential services.
The project is currently in its initial development phase. This means the state is gathering information, assessing environmental impacts, and seeking input from the public before finalizing designs or construction plans. Early engagement helps ensure the terminal meets community needs and respects local ecosystems.
Why Public Input Matters
Public participation plays a crucial role in shaping infrastructure projects like the Cascade Point Ferry Terminal. The state wants to hear from:
Local residents who will use the ferry services
Businesses that rely on ferry transportation
Environmental groups concerned about the natural habitat
Tribal organizations with cultural ties to the area
By collecting diverse perspectives, planners can identify potential challenges and opportunities. For example, feedback might highlight concerns about traffic, noise, or effects on wildlife. It can also reveal ideas for improving terminal design or services…
