Good morning, Anchorage.

The Food Bank of Alaska stays open amid the ongoing government shutdown—urging residents to apply for SNAP as food stocks run low on Viking Drive.

Organizers say local food drives and community support are crucial to help those who may lose access to SNAP benefits next month.

Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci apologized for IT failures that caused flight delays and booking issues + passengers experienced check-in problems at multiple airports.

He said the carrier boosted IT spending and will implement Accenture's audit recommendations + work to fix the service disruptions.

The government shutdown is delaying federal funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program for 2026 for about 50,000 low-income families in rural and tribal communities—funds that normally arrive today are now being used from last year's reserve and are expected to run out by mid-November. State health officials are processing applications by priority as they wait for Congress to act.

State seismologist Michael West said nine tsunami detection stations will be shut down in mid-November after NOAA cut $300,000 in federal funding – leaving dangerous gaps in Alaska’s early warning system.

He said he is unsure why the funding was withdrawn – and that many Aleutian stations have no replacements.

Mayor Suzanne LaFrance and Assembly Members Christopher Constant and Jared Goecker said Anchorage will offer free People Mover rides — valid federal ID is needed — and flexible utility help with food aid for residents hurt by the federal shutdown.

Local agencies are working with affected customers to defer payments and connect them with support services while federal paychecks remain delayed.

Judge Pamela Washington, Alaska’s first African American judge, retired after 15 years on the bench—she served on the Mental Health Court and now leads the National Association of Women Judges while planning to travel and spend more time with family.

Pearl Restaurant has opened at 417 D St.—it offers polished yet playful dishes like oysters, duck liver pate, and a Meyer Lemon Posset in a chic dining room that recalls a vintage speakeasy.

Guests can enjoy small plates and creative desserts in an upscale setting.

AMA Annual Convention 2025

9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. — Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport — Cost Info not verified — Engage with marketing professionals, discover trends, and network in Anchorage's premier marketing event.

Anchorage Zine Fair

12-6 p.m. — The Nave — Free entry — Discover local artistry and creativity at the Anchorage Zine Fair.

46th Annual Alaska Resources Conference

Time TBA — Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center — Early bird registration ends November 1 — Engage with industry leaders and explore Alaska’s natural resources at this major economic event.

All Alaska Pediatric Symposium

Time TBA — Marriott Anchorage Downtown — Registration required — Explore evidence-based pediatric healthcare practices with leading experts and engage in valuable networking.

KillBill Sax Concert

6:15-10:15 p.m. — Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center — Cost TBD — Experience the smooth sounds of saxophone from a local talent rooted in Anchorage.