Good morning, Anchorage.

Utilities are facing higher energy costs as Hilcorp raised prices by 14% for MEA customers and Fairbanks’ utility turned to costly diesel generation, setting the stage for greater hikes when LNG imports begin in coming years.

The Senate Education Committee approved a 'mini-bus' education bill today that adds nearly $82 million for energy, transportation, reading and vocational training (with a teacher loan forgiveness component) and now sends it to the Senate Finance Committee.

Lawmakers plan conference negotiations to reach a final fund allocation by May 20.

Despite cuts to ASD fine arts, Golden View Middle School students performed at Carnegie Hall this month.

The experience marked a bucket-list moment for the choir amid ongoing budget challenges.

Anchorage secured a $4.7M federal grant to upgrade the Don Young Port.

The grant will fund planning and design to replace a quake-damaged petroleum terminal with improvements expected later this decade — a key step for the port that supplies over 150 communities.

Anchorage approved a new ordinance banning feeding wildlife — covering both intentional and negligent actions — after a 9–3 Assembly vote, with fines from $100 to $500 to curb dangerous encounters and protect animals.

Alaska providers in Anchorage and Mat-su are shifting from sick care to a value-based care model that rewards good patient outcomes while reducing costs for Medicare.

The program has already saved millions and may expand with upcoming federal Rural Health Transformation funds.

Gaslight Lounge will reopen as Club Seven 21 after renovations + promising updated local entertainment for Anchorage guests in the coming days.

2026 Alaska Science of Reading Symposium

12 p.m.—2 p.m. — Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center — Registration required — A three-day conference empowering Alaskan educators with reading science strategies.

35th Annual Anchorage Salmon Run

10 a.m.–12 p.m. — Inlet View Elementary School — Cost info not provided — Participate in a unique 2 km running race in Anchorage and enjoy the local running community.

AkS SuperDraft 14

May 8-10 — Cartee Little League Fields — $50 — A fun-filled two-day softball tournament featuring custom jerseys and spirited competition for men’s and women’s teams.

Yukon River Science Symposium

9 AM-4:30 PM — Denali Tower North — Register to attend virtually — Engage in discussions about Yukon River science and conservation.

Women's Gold Nugget Triathlon

All day — Bartlett High School — Registration required — Empower women and girls through a spirited sprint triathlon event.

Wacky Women 2026 Kick-off Meeting

6-8:30 p.m. — Anchorage Golf Course — $35 — Social gathering with golf course reps, appetizers, and door prizes.

2026 Kids Alaska State Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Tournament

9:15 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. — Avis Alaska Sports Complex — Registration required — A day filled with exciting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions for kids of all skill levels.

Skinny Raven Twilight 12K & 6K

7-10 p.m. — Skinny Raven Sports — Registration fees vary — Kick off summer with a fun 12K or 6K run and enjoy live music and refreshments at the finish line.