Good morning, Anchorage.

Former Alaska Air National Guardsman Tech Sgt Adam Brister earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for his 2018 rescue of an injured climber in the Neacola Mountain Range, and he received the award on March 26 in Baton Rouge — a ceremony that honored his brave actions amid severe weather.

At Bird TLC in south Anchorage, staff use positive reinforcement training that helps raptors like snowy owl Frost trust people.

The method, begun five years ago, replaces old kennel practices and lets each bird decide when its education session ends (a change easing stress for staff).

Anchorage's Cyrano's Theatre Company presents the family dramedy Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike through Sept.

13, offering a comedic look at modern families at a local venue.

Visitors at the Alaska State Fair on Thursday experienced themed fun featuring stormtroopers, princesses, and superheroes while trying fair food and booths — a freshly painted Santa Claus statue in North Pole and split Labor Day weather add extra local updates.

Farmers across the Mat-Su Valley are beginning harvest season ahead of winter as fresh snow outlines the Chugach mountains—supporting the state’s goal of keeping food grown in Alaska.

Alaska education officials reported that grades three to five showed modest gains in math and English proficiency from previous assessments, while performance in grades six to nine stayed flat.

Education Commissioner Deena Bishop stressed the need to build on early progress (in 2025-26 assessments).

Arielle Roth and Senator Dan Sullivan announced in Anchorage that over 5,000 additional locations could soon receive federal broadband funding to help connect unserved areas.

Officials said permitting steps and a short construction season are key challenges for expanding service.

State health officials reported that youth suicide deaths hit a 10-year high last year with 174 deaths and 4,101 attempts recorded from 2016 to 2025; Alaska Native youth had rates more than double state averages, prompting experts to urge timely, tailored prevention programs.