Good morning, Anchorage.

Anchorage School District girls are taking a carpentry class by Alaska Works Partnership this spring break (hands-on instruction with power tools) to build projects and explore careers in skilled trades.

Anchorage officials say no outdoor deaths are recorded in 2026 because victims had a confirmed residence, but critics argue the narrow definition overlooks cases where people died while in temporary housing.

City leaders say the method keeps records consistent with past years.

Today, the House Transportation Committee heard from Alaska Railroad leadership about its self-sustaining model, key capital projects, and LNG readiness while reviewing HJR 42 that supports a Northern Continental Corridor rail link to the Lower 48 + further discussions are planned.

The Alaska House Energy Committee met yesterday to hear AEA updates on key infrastructure plans including the Bradley Lake expansion (set to begin construction in May 2027) and the CIP Link project, which must enter service by 2032 to secure its federal grant.

During spring break, students are taking advantage of extended hours at Hilltop Ski Area this week + sunny conditions keep the slopes busy, with many planning trips to Alyeska later in the week.

Jessie Holmes raced through the first third of Iditarod 54, checking in at McGrath at 8:03 p.m. Tuesday and earning the Alaska Air Transit Spirit of Iditarod Award (local musher gear crafted by McGrath artisans).

He is now heading to Takotna to refuel himself and his team.

Veteran musher Jessie Holmes from Brushkana leads the Iditarod after being the first to reach McGrath at 8:03 p.m. and earning the Spirit of the Iditarod award + the prize includes handcrafted beaver fur mitts and a matching hat.

Iditarod mushers endured brutal cold and fierce winds near McGrath yesterday while taking their mandatory 24-hour breaks amid water overflow and wild bison encounters; top competitors adjusted rest locations to better prepare for the challenging race ahead.

At the ceremonial start in Anchorage today, veteran mushers questioned relaxed race rules as Expedition Class teams (sponsored by businessmen including Kjell Røkke) are allowed extra flexibility with dog changes and outside help.

The new guidelines go into effect as teams push toward Nome.

Yukon River Science Symposium

All day — Denali Tower North — Free entry — Explore the latest research and developments concerning the Yukon River ecosystem.

Katherine Blanford Stand-Up Comedy Show

7-9 p.m. — Bear Tooth Theatrepub — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious antics of comedian Katherine Blanford, who's won hearts with her charming and energetic performances.

B4uDie Kick Off Party

7-9 p.m. — Chilkoot Charlie's — Check for admission details — Celebrate the start of Alaska's week-long comedy arts festival featuring top national comedians.

Spring Improv Comedy Night

8-9:30 p.m. — The Nave — Mocktails available — Celebrate the return of daylight with a lively night of improv comedy and community spirit.

Candlelight: The Soundtrack of the 60s

6:30-7:30 p.m. — 49th State Brewing - Anchorage — Ticket required — Experience a magical evening of The Beatles' classics performed by a string quartet under candlelight.

Grade Checking IV - GPS Training

8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Alaska Laborers Training School — Pre-requisite required — Engage in hands-on GPS training for grade checkers in Alaska.

Hidden Valley Hustlers Comedy Show

6-8 p.m. — Chilkoot Charlie's — Admission varies — Enjoy an evening of standup comedy featuring local talent from Hidden Valley.

Bear Grillz Live in Alaska

10:30 PM – 2:30 AM — Williwaw Social — Ticketed event — Enjoy an electrifying night with Bear Grillz in Anchorage.

Alaska SHRM Conference

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Hotel Captain Cook — $369 – $849 — Connect with HR professionals, enhance skills, and gain new insight at this annual conference.

Spaffdaddy Live Performance

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Peanut Farm — Ticket info TBA — Experience the energetic performances of Spaffdaddy, a local talent with Alaskan roots.