Good morning, Anchorage.

Officials urge drivers to slow down on Seward Highway as heavy Salmonfest travel and a rollover crash near Mile 67 (sending two people to hospital) heighten safety concerns, and state troopers will increase patrols across Southcentral Alaska this weekend.

Anchorage International Film Festival is enhancing support for independent filmmakers by offering free airfare provided by the Ellsworth Foundation (backed by the Atwood Foundation) for selected feature narrative and documentary filmmakers.

The festival plans to host screenings, discussions, and cultural events to build lasting local connections.

Alaska childcare providers report rising costs and flat state and federal funds have forced Head Start programs to reduce enrollment, cutting slots by as much as 38% in some areas.

Gov Dunleavy recently vetoed millions in additional funding, further straining services for families in growing regions.

On Friday, Jul. 31, the Alaska Youth Summit brought together students from across the state to build leadership skills and personal reliability (one participant said he just wanted to be someone people can rely on).

An annual district event held yesterday in Anchorage provided students from kindergarten through 12th grade with backpacks filled with school supplies.

Organizers said the event aimed to boost school readiness + community support for local families.

The annual Kenai River Junior Classic will run Aug.

5 and 6, providing 120 youth ages 11 to 14 hands-on lessons in fishing, conservation, salmon biology and boating safety. It begins at King Tech School in Anchorage and moves to the Kenai River in Soldotna (second day).

State officials ended spill response for the F/V Arctic Sea and a salvage team will begin wreck removal early August near St. George Island — cleanup is expected to finish before winter.

Surveys confirmed the grounded vessel leaked tens of thousands of gallons of fuel in January.

Federal and state transportation leaders met in Anchorage yesterday to discuss half a billion dollars in upgrades to runway lighting, weather reporting, and air traffic systems for remote communities.

They stressed that longstanding NTSB safety recommendations, including pilot training and improved recorders, must be acted on to enhance aviation safety.

On Wednesday, July 31, the EPA transferred hazardous waste management to Alaska’s Department of Environmental Conservation in a signature ceremony.

The move gives Alaska RCRA primacy while the state’s hazardous waste program remains fully operational — a transition years in the making.

An Alaska trainer broke a world record on Jul.

31 by completing 60 18-inch box jumps in 60 seconds. The feat inspires local fitness fans + highlights a new benchmark in athletic training.

Hatcher Pass will be filled with endurance runners as they take part in a 50-mile race and marathon today, drawing competitors to the scenic trail.

The event is set for early morning start.

Family Paint Night

6-8 p.m. — Ravens Ring Brewing Company — Supplies included — Create a colorful seasons-themed painting in a fun, welcoming environment.

Split the Pot drawing

A $2,000 minimum jackpot is guaranteed. The pot will increase when $4000 in sales is exceeded. Sales end at midnight 7/31/26. For the month of July Local 71 is running a Split the Pot raffle to fund the Local 71 Scholarship & Training Fund. The self-perpetuating fund provides a program of scholarships to assist eligible Local 71 Members and their families in furthering their professional training, certifications, licenses, and education.

Split the Pot drawing

A $2,000 minimum jackpot is guaranteed. The pot will increase when $4000 in sales is exceeded. Sales end at midnight 7/31/26. For the month of July Local 71 is running a Split the Pot raffle to fund the Local 71 Scholarship & Training Fund. The self-perpetuating fund provides a program of scholarships to assist eligible Local 71 Members and their families in furthering their professional training, certifications, licenses, and education.

Anchorage Tattoo Expo 2026

11 a.m. — Sheraton Anchorage Hotel — Tickets available at the door — Experience live tattooing by over 80 award-winning artists at Alaska's premier tattoo expo.

Hippie Sabotage & Waka Flocka Flame Live

6-9 p.m. — Williwaw Social — Ticket prices vary — Experience electrifying performances by Hippie Sabotage and Waka Flocka Flame in downtown Anchorage.

Dave Nihill: Live in Anchorage

7-11 PM — Wilda Marston Theatre — Cost Info Not Available — Experience the comedic journey of Dave Nihill from Ireland to the world.