Good morning, Anchorage.

Rocket Fuel is giving away 1,100 backpacks filled with school supplies for students from kindergarten to 12th grade today from 1 to 5 p.m. at Mountain View Community Center, featuring free food, haircuts and games and sponsored by the Anchorage Wolverines.

Anchorage-based Alaska Public Media will spend $1.15 million to upgrade its broadcast center this spring and summer to keep public radio safe for remote communities — while in Valdez, KCHU relies on volunteers to maintain a reduced FM signal after river damage forced removal of its 300-foot AM tower.

A brown bear attacked an unaccompanied runner on the Wolverine Bowl trail Thursday morning near Prospect Heights (she used bear spray and drove herself to hospital) as wildlife officials investigated the scene and posted warning signs.

University of Washington researchers forecast Bristol Bay’s wild sockeye run at 45 million for 2027, up from 41.5 million last year, with a higher share of younger, smaller fish reducing overall meat yield (20 million three-ocean and 30 million two-ocean fish).

Anchorage School District is investing $6 million to hire additional teachers ahead of the staggered school start after cutting over 300 positions to address a $90 million deficit.

The district will confirm extra state funds at the end of August while students return beginning Aug. 19.

Anchorage School District will welcome students back on Wednesday, Aug.

19 as graduation and math scores rise despite a $40 million budget shortfall and three school closures last year. Superintendent Dr. Jharrett Bryantt said the district is filling open teacher positions and launching a new academic plan to support students.

The University of Alaska Board of Regents has voted to eliminate out-of-state tuition for all its universities and create parity between in-state and non-resident rates.

Called Alaska Unlocked, the change will take effect for the 2027-2028 school year as final rates are set in November.

On Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, state wildlife biologists euthanized a brown bear sow and her three cubs at a home in Eagle River after the animals entered in search of chickens, prompting local calls for better animal-proofing measures.

The owners of Rockin’ B Ranch in Rabbit Creek are seeking buyers for the property that has hosted horse riding camps for over 20 years.

Interested parties can inquire soon to continue this long-standing local tradition.

The report lists 33 local teams playing sports like baseball, hockey, and roller derby, highlighting champions such as the Mat-Su Miners and long-time clubs like the Glacier Pilots.

It outlines venues where fans can watch upcoming games (Sports).

The 907 Sports Tailgate Tour kicked off the local high school football season on Friday, Aug.

14—bringing fans and players together for tailgating festivities in Anchorage. The event set the stage for an exciting season ahead.