Good morning, Anchorage.

The Juneau Arts and Humanities Council is accepting proposals from artists for its gallery season that runs from October to next September, with proposals due May 15.

The council seeks works in many mediums—especially new 3D pieces—and gives preference to local artists while allowing submissions from others who must handle their own transport.

Governor Mike Dunleavy flew last month to Taiwan to pitch an Alaska LNG export project to business leaders—China sent an email urging him to cancel the trip due to objections over official contact with Taiwan.

Terrence Shanigan explains how Alaska's budget faces rising public safety costs and Medicaid spending that strain resources while vacancies and fraud concerns persist—prompting questions about the efficiency of spending.

Lawmakers are debating plans that may reduce your Permanent Fund Dividend to cover extra costs—Alaskans are urged to demand detailed audits to focus funds on essential services.

The state Division of Forestry is not offering basic firefighting classes in Anchorage while providing them in Kenai, Glennallen, and Fairbanks to help residents manage wildfires.

Fire season started early in the city due to low snow and a large fire at Davis Park burned multiple structures (raising concerns as hundreds remain in temporary shelters).

Anchorage property taxpayer Bob Maier urged residents to ask elected officials to redirect $24.9 million in federal funds from a road diet plan to build an extension of Bragaw Street from Northern Lights to Tudor Road—he said the change would help emergency services reach calls faster.

UAA women’s basketball head coach Ryan McCarthy left after 13 years with the Seawolves to become Fresno State’s next head coach—he guided the team to a 309-67 record and seven conference titles before choosing to move closer to family and bring his top assistants along.

UAA now prepares to fill the vacant coaching position as McCarthy’s legacy continues to influence local women's basketball.

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.

Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA

9-10 p.m. — 49th State Brewing - Anchorage — Ticket prices vary — Experience classic hits by Queen and ABBA performed by a string quartet in a magical candlelit setting.

Alumni & Friends Alaska Assembly Dinner

5:30-8:00 p.m. — 4025 W 88th Ave, Anchorage, AK — $15 per adult, $5 per child, $50 family cap — Celebrate with food, stories, and community spirit.

All Alaska Reptile & Exotics Expo

11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. — The Arctic Rec Center — Admission details unavailable — Experience an exciting day of reptiles and exotic animals with local breeders and veterinarians.

Alaska Barber Battle

1-7 p.m. — The Nave — Free entry — Experience a showcase of skilled barbers competing with creativity and talent.

Anchorage Scenic Tour: Explore Historic Towns

— May 1 — Visit Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Information Center — Cost not specified — Discover Alaska's historic towns and scenic drives with expert local guides.

Paint on a Wooden Bear

5:30-7:30 p.m. — La Cabaña Mexican Restaurant — No cost listed — Unleash your creativity painting an Alaskan scenery on a wooden bear.

Turnagain Arm Trail Run

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Turnagain Arm Trail, Northern Trailhead — Entry fee required — Experience the thrill of scenic trail-running races along one of Alaska's best trails.

Alaska Cancer Partnership Annual Meeting 2025

8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. — BP Energy Center — Free admission — Collaborate on strategies for a cancer-free Alaska with informative sessions and networking opportunities.

Alaska State Adult BJJ Tournament 2025

1-3 p.m. — Avis Alaska Sports Complex — Registration required — Catch the excitement as competitors face off in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu matches.