Good morning, Anchorage.

Three climbers lost their lives on Mt. McKinley this week after falling near Denali Pass and a fourth remains in critical condition after being rescued from a basin at 17,200 feet, according to the Latvian Mountaineering Association + Denali National Park officials.

Five people were injured when a cow moose defended its young calves in Anchorage (Fish and Game reported all incidents involved cows with young calves), and no further details have been released.

HEX LLC is unifying its Alaska operations under one brand, renaming its arms and continuing investment in Cook Inlet gas.

The locally owned firm plans drilling of two new wells later in 2026 (press release May 28) as part of disciplined growth.

At the Alaska Zoo, the summer orphan season begins as biologists deliver one caribou calf and four moose calves, which staff are caring for around the clock in designated animal areas (as part of strict care protocols).

Visitors are reminded to report any concerns about orphaned wildlife.

Alaska Legislature approved a budget that will allocate over $148 million for school repairs and maintenance in fiscal year 2027 to fix issues such as leaking roofs and failing foundations while still covering only 13% of what districts requested (the measure awaits Gov. Dunleavy’s signature).

Students from Nome-Beltz High and tribal leaders tested local tomcod for algal toxins in the warming Bering Sea after a 2022 bloom raised concerns about traditional wild foods.

Early tests detected toxins at (low levels) and further research will guide safe food practices in the community.

Officials broke ground Thursday on Town Square Park to improve safety, accessibility and visibility, adding new lighting, ADA-compliant pathways and a future F Street Market for food trucks and events.

Construction is set to begin after Memorial Day and could continue into winter.

The appeals court ruled that Alaska may make ConocoPhillips’ well data public — backing state law on disclosure after the 24-month confidentiality period.

The decision supports future resource development by ensuring data from exploration wells becomes available.

The Alaska Legislature approved a bill to improve emergency response for strokes & heart attacks and to require CPR training in schools.

The measure now heads to Gov. Mike Dunleavy for review and will take effect in July 2027 if approved.

Friday evening, the Skinny Raven Twilight 12K took thousands of runners along a scenic Anchorage route that passed the A/C street bridge, through Government Hill, and ended at Delaney Park.

Participants chose between a 6K or 12K race with a finish-line party featuring food, drink, and live music.

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.

Scared Scriptless Improv Show

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — The Nave — $18 online — Enjoy a laugh indoors and escape the summer mosquitoes with a lively improv performance.