Good morning, Anchorage.

Police have set up a large presence—directly behind the home of a man reported missing on March 6th in Eagle River—as investigators continue to search for clues about his disappearance.

Cultural institutions across Alaska face major cuts as federal grants were abruptly canceled, leaving museums, libraries and cultural centers with reduced programs and uncertain futures—Alaska Humanities Forum in Anchorage now struggles with severe budget shortfalls that could force it to shut down.

Hilcorp signed oil leases with Doyon to drill exploration wells in the Yukon Flats this summer on remote Native-owned land along Birch Creek—local tribal groups are split, with some opposing the project over environmental risks and others supporting it for the promise of jobs.

At Tuesday night’s Anchorage School Board meeting, ASD Superintendent Dr. Jharrett Bryantt said that passing House Bill 69 with a $1,000 boost in base student funding will help prevent larger class sizes, cuts to teaching positions and reductions in special education programs.

He warned that without this funding update the district risks staffing delays and further layoffs impacting jobs for librarians, nurses and counselors.

Last week, the Seattle office that helped Alaska Head Start programs was closed by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F.

Kennedy, Jr., leaving local programs unsure if they will get the needed help and grant money on time. Leaders at Kids’ Corps in Anchorage worry that delays — needed to cover costs for the next six months — may temporarily disrupt services for thousands of children and families.

In late February the Anchorage School Board passed a budget that cut middle school sports and will drop the programs for thousands of students next year.

Critics warn that the cuts will hurt student health and bonding — a challenge for many low-income families — while the board may restore these programs if state funding increases are approved — a potential lifeline for students.

State lawmakers criticized two University of Alaska Board of Regents appointees at an April 2 Senate Education Committee hearing for their support of a board motion that removed mentions of diversity, equity and inclusion from UA communications.

Regent Christine Resler, who voted for the change, said she will back the university community as the board adapts to new federal guidance — her complete confirmation will be addressed in a later session.

On Tuesday, Anchorage Fire Department crew members practiced wildfire response in Tiny Town—a simulation that gives a bird's-eye view of the city to plan for fires in dry grass areas.

The training also included a classroom review of new updates to prepare for a busy wildfire season this spring and summer.

At the annual Big C Relays, two new sprinters from Dimond and Soldotna earned the 'Fastest Alaskans' title at Alaska's largest track meet held on April 9th—showing the rise of emerging local talent.

Mat-Su Outdoorsman Show

12:00 AM — Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center — Check website for ticket info — Explore outdoor vendors and discover products for your Alaskan adventures.

Anchorage Home Show

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Alaska Airlines Center — $10 General Admission, $8 Seniors & Military, Free 17 & Under — Discover the latest in housing solutions and enjoy family activities.

Bright Ideas

3-7 p.m. — Anchorage Community Theatre — Tickets available — Experience an engaging performance that promises to spark creativity and inspiration.

KillBill Sax Performance

7 PM – 1 AM — Chester Park Senior Housing — Free admission — Enjoy a night of soulful saxophone melodies from local artist Bill, rooted in Anchorage's music scene.

Free Easter Meal Giveaway

6-7 p.m. (Additional times: 3 p.m. on 4/19, 10:30 a.m. on 4/20) — Life Church Bus Ministry — Free entry — Enjoy a festive Easter meal with prizes, an egg hunt, and pizza every evening.

Alaska Statewide Tribal Business Office Conference

8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Connect and learn at this annual training in Billing & Coding.

Bright Ideas Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Anchorage Community Theatre — Affordable tickets available — Experience the excitement of Bright Ideas in a vibrant live performance setting.

Alaska Aviation Museum Hall of Fame Gala

6:00-10:30 p.m. — Marriott Anchorage Downtown — Tickets required — Celebrate aviation legends in Alaska with dinner, auctions, and special awards.

Bright Ideas Performance

3-7 p.m. — Anchorage Community Theatre — Cheap tickets available — Experience the excitement of the live ‘Bright Ideas’ performance in Anchorage.

The Adventures of Tortoise & Hare: The Next Generation

7:15-8:15 a.m. — Alaska Junior Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beloved fable in a modern setting as Tortoise and Hare navigate new challenges with their children.