Good morning, Anchorage.

Frozen Smoke BBQ donated 10% of its taco sale proceeds to Hunter Elementary’s meal program on Jan.

20, supporting local students’ meal needs. The restaurant aims to strengthen community ties (the owner emphasized his commitment beyond helping a school).

Anchorage ski resorts are offering free lift tickets and discounted rentals to service members as part of Military Monday on Feb.

2 — the program honors military service by giving back in a fun way.

Local culinary talent is recognized as Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop is named a James Beard semifinalist in bakery, with Anchorage chefs Nathan Bentley and Mike Dodge earning nods for Best Chef: Northwest + Pacific and Tutka Bay Lodge noted for hospitality.

Winners will be announced later this year.

The Alaska Council of School Administrators launched a social media campaign in December to attract teachers from the Lower-48 as schools face over 600 vacancies and high turnover rates.

The effort, crafted with help from a local consulting firm, aims to bring in up to 1,000 new educators.

A July photocensus shows the Porcupine Caribou Herd declined to 143,000 from 218,000 in 2017 in remote northeastern Alaska—state biologists note it remains the largest caribou group and that reduced food supply from more frequent wildfires may be a factor.

Jerry Ingersoll (acting regional forester) said his agency plans to publish a notice of intent for a Tongass National Forest plan revision soon and host public meetings in spring; he noted the staff has dropped sharply after federal cuts.

Dr. Sarah Spencer at Ninilchik Community Clinic gave buprenorphine shots to treat a patient with opioid use disorder while the Alaska DOC (Department of Corrections) largely limits treatment.

Studies show the medication can reduce overdose risk after incarceration, and DOC plans to pilot a more comprehensive program by February.

Anchorage homeowners saw assessment increases this year; one resident noted a 15% jump that may lead to higher property taxes, while others reported steady $30,000 annual gains since 2020.

Rising values could limit options for new buyers.

After weather delays during the Coca-Cola Classic alpine race series, Alaska's junior skiers returned to training at Alyeska with ideal icy conditions; they are prepping for the Alaska Airlines Speed Race (Jan.

26-30) scheduled at the resort.

Candlelight Concert: Rings and Dragons

6:30-7:29 p.m. — 49th State Brewing — $27.65 — Experience an enchanting musical journey with a tribute to fantasy themes by candlelight.

2026 Alaska Forum Conference

8 AM – 5 PM — Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center — Open to attendees — Expanding opportunities with the inaugural Alaska Forum Career & Craft Fair.

22nd Annual All Alaska Roundup

2 PM – 12 PM — Hilton Anchorage — Check event page for registration fees — An annual recovery event fostering community support and connection in Anchorage.

2026 ASBJJF Adult and Masters GI Championship

9:15 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. — Avis Alaska Sports Complex — Registration fees applicable — Experience the thrilling competition of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Alaska.

Mushing Dogs to the Top of Denali: The 1979 Expedition

6-7 p.m. — Anchorage Museum — Free entry — Experience the thrilling story of the first ascent of Denali through the eyes of expedition members and author Nan Elliot.

Alaska Fighting Championship 173

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Sullivan Arena — Tickets available — Experience a night of thrilling mixed martial arts action in Anchorage.