Good morning, Anchorage.

Alaska Native leaders say honoring ANCSA’s promise means supporting projects like Donlin Gold — which will create jobs and fund community services while promoting environmental care — and defending the federal 8(a) program to safeguard self-determination.

Construction begins this summer on the downtown connector project that links the Coastal Trail at Elderberry Park to the Ship Creek Trail and extends the Moose Loop to form a continuous 14-mile path along Cook Inlet.

The project is estimated to cost about $15.6 million and take two summers to complete.

First Lady Rose Dunleavy today honored seven locals from Anchorage, North Pole, Soldotna, Eagle River, and Sitka with the 2026 Volunteer Award for their service.

LeeAnna Chronister of Anchorage built a 4,000 sqft community center (a volunteer-run nonprofit) to support families and promote mental wellness.

The Alaska Center for the Performing Arts in Anchorage will begin summer renovations — upgrading fire safety systems, replacing 1980s elevators and updating Atwood Concert Hall; officials say the work will modernize the historic venue and support its vibrant arts scene.

AAA reported that the state average reached $5.26 per gallon on Wednesday, nearly matching the record of $5.61 set in June 2022, while Anchorage drivers paid $5.24—an increase of $1.66 from last year.

The Alaska Army National Guard is offering the Minuteman Scholarship to Alaskan students aged 17–28, providing full tuition or up to $12,000 for room and board along with book and ROTC stipends while participants serve in a National Guard unit.

Applicants meeting GPA and fitness standards must apply by Monday, June 1.

Campbell STEM Elementary will hold its last day of school next week, and parents are fighting to avoid a permanent closure after a temporary court injunction was lifted.

A telephonic hearing is set for today, and the school district will decide the next steps soon.

Anchorage School Board passed a resolution on Tuesday to keep Campbell STEM, Fire Lake, and Lake Otis open if the Legislature approves a $920 per-student increase before the session ends May 20.

The board’s plan directs a new budget to reverse recent educator and program cuts (pending legislative action).

The Alaska House passed a bill Tuesday that lets school districts build budgets using confirmed enrollment numbers and includes an amendment capping local funding increases — the bill now heads to the Senate before the legislative session ends May 20.

Alaska Fish & Game announced on May 13 that the National Marine Fisheries Service denied a petition to list Chinook under the Endangered Species Act, a decision the state supported by noting that Chinook do not meet the necessary criteria.

The ANCSA Regional Association President, Nicole Borromeo, said Monday's unanimous passage of House Joint Resolution 44 supports ANC participation in the SBA 8(a) program — a measure that reinforces Alaska Native Corporations’ role in sustaining local business and over 51,000 jobs.

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.