Good morning, Anchorage.

Chugiak Mustangs players picked up trash along Glenn Highway earlier this month as part of a community service tradition ahead of football season.

The volunteer effort, involving about 25 players, received praise from local residents for its positive impact.

Children 18 and under in Anchorage receive free breakfast and lunch this summer through the Summer Meal Program at designated community sites; officials say the program ensures kids have meals while school is out.

A new local bookstore and café named Betti's is set to open in Spenard by the end of June.

It will offer story hours and puppet classes for families by day and comedy and jazz events at night, with plans to sell beer and wine later this year.

Ziggy Marley will perform at 6 p.m. Aug.

23 at the Borealis Theatre as part of the Alaska State Fair concert series. Fair member tickets are available now and general public tickets go on sale 10 a.m. Friday (bundled fair admission options are also offered).

At the Anchorage Museum, the Cold War to the Cosmos exhibit featured a talk by Sierra Young on Star Trek's commentary on the Cold War (Tuesday, May 26, 6:30-9 p.m.), followed by episodes of the program.

Two Alaskans advanced to the National Spelling Bee quarterfinals; Kenai's Aidan Cole shared his feelings ahead of his upcoming contest.

Anchorage residents can explore the new Birding Trail online guide that highlights 35 bird-watching spots with nearly 300 bird species recorded.

The community celebrates today at Westchester Lagoon at 5 p.m. with a ribbon cutting ceremony and bird walk.

On Tuesday, the FAA proposed a $165K fine for Alaska Airlines for allowing 11 flights to board passengers who appeared intoxicated (the airline said it made protocol changes and has 30 days to respond).

State lawmakers passed two health care bills on May 26 to meet federal requirements to ease licensing for out-of-state providers and allow pharmacists to treat conditions—now the bills await Gov. Dunleavy’s signature.

Anchorage Fire Department introduced a new life-saving tool for emergency responses yesterday.

Officials said the tool is expected to improve response times and help crews serve the community better.

The Anchorage Fire Department launched a Field Blood Product Program with the Blood Bank of Alaska to deliver on-scene blood transfusions for hemorrhaging patients.

Specially outfitted vehicles transport the blood — a tribute honoring firefighter Elliott Taylor sponsored by Union Local 12-64.

Local sports saw standout results as Chugiak track won the Region IV championships while undefeated runs continued for Dimond boys & South Anchorage girls soccer; prep playoffs and state championships in baseball, softball, soccer and track are scheduled this week in Anchorage and surrounding areas.

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.

Garden Grooves – Solstice Edition

6:00 – 8:30 PM — 49th State Brewing - Anchorage — Free entry — Celebrate the longest day of the year with live music in a beautiful beer garden.

Anchorage Midnight Sun 5K & Family Fun Run

11:30 PM — Town Square Park — Registration fees vary — Experience a magical race under the midnight sun with festive activities and stunning views.

Modern Nurse Fest Alaska

10 AM-4 PM — BP Energy Center — Free entry — Celebrate modern nursing with insightful sessions and networking in beautiful Alaska.

Anchorage Summer Concert Series 2026

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Tikishla Park — Free entry — Experience local talent under the stars in a beautiful neighborhood park.