Good morning, Anchorage.

Anchorage families visiting Ruth Arcand Park will see a fresh playground update featuring an ADA-accessible engineered wood fiber surface that improves child safety.

Officials said similar improvements will come to Stork Park and Stevenson Park this summer.

Friends and family of Wasilla pilot Matt Punt are calling on the community for support after his plane crashed near Knik Glacier on May 5, injuring him severely—including 60% burns and a leg fracture—while he receives treatment in Seattle and crowdfunding has already raised over $84,000.

Pop and Christian artist Amy Grant is set to perform at the Borealis Theatre during the Alaska State Fair on Monday, Aug.

24 at 7 p.m. — presale tickets for fair members are now on sale and general tickets will be available Friday at 10 a.m.

The Anchorage Concert Association announced its 2026-27 season featuring more than 20 concerts, including an Oct.

3 performance by ukulele star Jake Shimabukuro (renowned for his skill). Season subscriptions go on sale May 19 while individual tickets begin selling in August.

Anchorage duo Kuya (meaning older brother) performs nostalgic cover songs at Garcia’s Cantina in Eagle River every Friday night.

The musicians plan to introduce original material and record a demo album as they bring back tunes that connect local memories.

Alaska’s Industrial Development and Export Authority will vote today on a $190 million proposal for oil exploration in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge — with $175 million for geologic testing plus $15 million to bid on new lease areas.

The Anchorage School Board passed a resolution Tuesday asking the Legislature to permanently increase per-student funding by $920.

If approved by June 1, the boost would help avoid planned closures at Fire Lake Elementary, Campbell STEM Elementary, and Lake Otis Elementary.

AT&T and Camp Fire Alaska donated 100 refurbished laptops to Anchorage students at Camp Fire Alaska’s offices, supporting digital literacy and reducing barriers to schoolwork.

The event celebrated the Absolutely Incredible Kid Day initiative plus set the stage for ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide.

Anchorage crews are finishing the final two blocks of the major 42nd-Avenue project from Lake Otis Parkway to Florina Street.

The work includes new pavement, utilities, sidewalks, and lighting and will be complete in August.

Anchorage Fire Department trained new car seat technicians Tuesday at the AFD Training Center and will offer free car seat safety checks Thursday—helping families ensure proper installation.

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.

Breakthrough Basketball Essential Skills Camp

June 2-4 — O'Malley Sports Center — $97 for observing coaches — Elevate your basketball skills with high-intensity drills designed for young players.

2026 Alaska Regional Conference

Educational sessions and networking for small businesses — Jun 9-10 — Marriott Anchorage Downtown — Fee info not specified — Access resources and matchmaking opportunities tailored for various business categories.

Summer Concert Series: Wiley Post Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Suzan Nightingale McKay Park — Free entry — Enjoy a night of rocking live music and beautiful views in your neighborhood park.

Midnight Sun 7s 2026

10 AM – 11:30 PM — Alaska Mountain Rugby Grounds — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience fast-paced rugby action and great vibes under the midnight sun.