Good morning, Anchorage.

Anchorage municipal gardeners will begin planting thousands of red, white and blue flowers next week in Russian Jack Park to have beds ready by Memorial Day; downtown parks are skipped due to summer makeovers.

The 3rd Annual Alaska Homestead Expo and Marketplace returns May 22-23 at the Big Lake Lions Club, where local experts will teach homesteading skills through in-person sessions and virtual classes (45 minutes from Anchorage).

Anchorage commuters ditched cars today to ride bikes for the annual Bike to Work Day, joining fellow residents along routes from downtown to office parks.

Organizers say the event promotes healthy living and eco-friendly travel (encouraging new habits across the community).

Cooler spring temperatures in Anchorage are delaying planting in community gardens because late-night freezes slow soil warming — gardeners remain hopeful for a busy summer at local farmers’ markets once nights warm.

EasyPark announced expanded 2-hour parking + options downtown to boost convenience for Anchorage residents and visitors, with the new service now available.

National Geographic journalist Paul Salopek has walked since 2013 and will soon ride a sea kayak from Gustavus — following the ancient migration route — to paddle south toward Vancouver via the Inside Passage.

NOAA decided on Wednesday not to list Gulf of Alaska king salmon under the Endangered Species Act after Wild Fish Conservancy’s petition; state regulators said although some stocks have declined, overall populations remain robust, averting new fishing restrictions along the southern coastline.

AIDEA approved spending of up to $190 million to begin seismic testing and bidding for oil leases in the Arctic Refuge's coastal plain, amid local debates (the board voted 6-1 on the proposal).

The agency expects a detailed exploration plan by its next meeting in June.

The Legislature passed a bill that will require schools to offer mental health classes and notify parents two weeks in advance, as the Department of Education works with health and tribal groups to create the guidelines.

The measure now awaits Gov. Dunleavy’s decision and will allow two years for development.

A local chef introduces the Green Queen spring lasagna recipe featuring a white miso pesto and fresh spring vegetables + the dish offers a quicker version of a classic meal for cozy seasonal dining.

Residents at Romig Court in Spenard report ongoing leaks, mold, no heat, and sewage problems after the company Red Tail Residential took over from a California landlord (issues reported since 2022).

They say slow maintenance and rising rents leave tenants with little recourse amid repeated complaints to city inspectors.

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.

Paint Nite: Late Summer Sunset

6-8 p.m. — Ravens Ring Brewing Company — Cost varies — Unleash your creativity with a guided painting experience while enjoying your favorite brews.