Algerian man Imane Khelif has beat Italy’s Angela Carini in a welterweight round of Olympic women’s boxing and will advance. It took just 46 seconds for Carini, of Naples, Italy, to give up the match after taking a couple of heavy blows to her head.
The International Olympics Committee has decided to allow men who have X and Y chromosomes to box women. On Friday, a male boxer from Taiwan will be pitted against a woman from Uzbekistan. Yu-Ting will box in the Women’s 57kg division on Aug. 2, 9:30 a.m. Eastern time. His opponent is Sitora Turdibekova, a woman.
After the less-than-a-minute match, Carini was clearly traumatized, and was seen crying in the boxing ring.
Khelif will fight again on Saturday against an as-of-yet undetermined opponent.
Chalk it up to wardrobe failure: Fletch Fletcher, a language arts teacher at Dimond High School in Anchorage, made social media this week, with his name and physique featured in the “Libs of TikTok” channel on X/Twitter.
In a video apparently shot by a student, a teacher wearing a dress appears to have his hardened penis tenting out of the fabric, right at eye level where a student under his watch is working on a computer. The distance between the erection and the student’s hand is mere inches. That teacher is identified as Fletcher, although not verified by Must Read Alaska as such.
Meet Fletch Fletcher. A male teacher at @ASDschools who now identifies as nonbinary. He likes to wear tight dresses to school so his bulge sticks out. I’m told he also wears very tight pants and it makes the students extremely uncomfortable.
According to the Libs of TikTok account, Fletcher also wears tight pants that show his bulge and make students uncomfortable.
Students of Dimond High School who are familiar with the situation may contact Must Read Alaska in the comment section below and ask that their names be kept private if they have information that is pertinent to this report.
It’s a balloon, or it’s not a balloon. It was the size of a car. But we’re not sure what size of car. If the Pentagon knows what it shot down over the Arctic Ocean, it’s not saying. At this point, it’s still in the category of an unidentified flying “object” that was north of Prudhoe Bay until taken down by an F-22 out of Elmendorf.
The Department of Defense did give at least a few more details about the nature of the mission, which took place this morning over the Arctic, while it was still dark in northern Alaska. As revealed by Must Read Alaska earlier on Friday, the military had detected the object on Feb. 9, and determined it was unmanned. A jet from Anchorage to Red Dog Mine was rerouted toward Nome to avoid the item on Thursday.
“The object was flying at an altitude of 40,000 feet and posed a reasonable threat to the safety of civilian flight,” said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. President Joe Biden ordered Northern Command to shoot down the object. Civilian airliners typically fly between 40,000 and 45,000 feet.
The object, whatever it was, fell onto sea ice off the coast of Alaska and U.S. Northern Command has begun recovery operations, Ryder said.
“U.S. Northern Command’s Alaska Command coordinated the operation with assistance from the Alaska Air National Guard, Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” he said.
The object was about the size of a small car, the general said, and does not resemble in any way the Chinese surveillance balloon shot down off the coast of South Carolina earlier this week. “We have no further details about the object at this time, including any description of its capabilities, purpose or origin,” he said.
Two F-22s flying out of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska, took down the object. The one missile shot was an AIM-9X Sidewinder. “We have HC-130, HH-60 and CH-47 aircraft participating in that recovery,” the press secretary said.
The shoot-down of a China spy balloon six days earlier has drawn criticism from many observers, who note that the White House didn’t acknowledge the spy balloon until it was photographed and reported by a newspaper in Billings, Montana. Only then did the Biden Administration admit it knew about the balloon, and it has changed stories about the timing and nature of its decisions ever since.
The Anchorage Assembly on Tuesday passed ordinances opposed by residents across the city and also objected to by operators of homeless shelters and facilities.
The first ordinance expands the zoning for homeless shelters into areas called B-3 business districts. Most of the B-3 areas are in Midtown Anchorage. Assemblywoman Meg Zaletel of Midtown was the sponsor of the ordinance that will bring more crime and social problems to Midtown neighborhoods.
Zaletel is the subject of a recall effort that is now underway.
The B-3 district in Anchorage “is intended for primarily for general commercial uses in commercial centers and area exposed to heavy traffic. These commercial uses are intended to be located on arterials, or within commercial centers of town, and to be provided with adequate public services and facilities,” according to the Municipality, but the zone butts up against residential neighborhoods. The purpose of the ordinance is to spread out the homeless problem to reduce its impacts on the downtown district and make other neighborhoods share the burden.
The second ordinance is going to require homeless shelters to be licensed by the municipality by 2023. This ordinance was objected to by faith-based organizations who say that the Assembly, run by a leftist majority, is trying to force women’s shelters to admit transgendered individuals.
The Biden Administration’s head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned of “impending doom” from a resurgence of Covid-19 and appealed to governors and mayors to reinstate mask mandates. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky, welled up with tears as she ask America to “hold on a little while longer” and continue wearing masks.
“I am asking you to just hold on a little longer, to get vaccinated when you can, so that all of those people that we all love will still be here when this pandemic ends,” Walensky said. The nation has “reason for hope. But right now, I’m scared.”
“Please, this is not politics — reinstate the mandate,” President Joe Biden said. “The failure to take this virus seriously is precisely what got us into this mess in the first place.”
Gov. Mike Dunleavy, on Twitter, said no, he would not be implementing a statewide mask mandate.
“No thanks, @POTUS – you can keep your mask mandate. We’ll keep doing it the #Alaska way: trust the people & let them live their lives,” Dunleavy wrote.
To date, 31 percent of Alaskans have received at least one dose of a vaccine against Covid. Over 21 percent of Alaskans are fully immunized. Anchorage has a mask mandate that has been in place for almost a year but the state has never had a one-size-fits-all mandate.
Must Read Alaska updates relating to the COVID-19 coronavirus will be included on this running post, where you can see updates throughout the days and nights ahead. Check back for updates.
10:30 am, 04/03/2020: The Carlson Center in Fairbanks has been converted into an overflow field hospital, in the event that the Fairbanks Memorial Hospital reaches capacity. Close to 100 cots have been set up, while Fairbanks and North Pole have reported a total of 42 COVID-19 cases to date, most not needing hospitalization.
10 pm, 04/03/2020: The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Research Center survey results released on Friday show 92% of small employers said they are negatively impacted by the pandemic, up from 76% saying the same just 10 days prior. The survey was taken March 30 among a random sample of 300,000 members of the small business organization.
The survey showed continued decline in the small business sector since the NFIB’s previous similar survey, which was conducted on March 20.
The NFIB on Friday stated, “The severity of the outbreak and regulatory measures that cities and states are taking to control it are having a devastating impact on small businesses.”
10 pm, 04/02/2020: The Department of State says that due to public health measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, it is only able to offer passport service for customers with a qualified life-or-death emergency and who need a passport for immediate international travel within 72 hours.
Life-or-death emergencies are serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family (e.g. parent, child, spouse, sibling, aunt, uncle, etc) that require you to travel outside the United States within 72 hours (3 days).
The State Department advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel at this time due to the global impact of COVID-19. Many areas throughout the world are now experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and taking action that may limit traveler mobility, including quarantines and border restrictions. Even countries, jurisdictions, or areas where cases have not been reported may restrict travel without notice.
3 pm, 04/02/2020: The Alaska Railroad passenger service will be postponed to July, rather than its originally scheduled start date of May 8.
Usually, the summer train season starts with the arrival of cruise ships in Seward and Whittier, where passengers disembark and travel by train to Anchorage and north to Denali and Fairbanks.
Aurora Winter Train is suspended through the end of the 2019-2020 winter season
Coastal Classic Train has daily scheduled service may begin July 1
Northbound service for the Denali Star Train is may begin July 1, with daily bi-directional service starting July 2
Glacier Discovery Train returns July 3
Hurricane Turn Train: operates April 2, May 7, and June 4. Standard Thursday-Monday service begins July 2, 2020
10 am, 04/02/2020: From Flowingdata.com comes this handy toilet paper calculator to help you gauge how many weeks you can go before you’ll need to start scouting for toilet paper again:
In short, if you’re a household of two, using 8 sheets per wipe, and wiping 8 times a day, you’ll need about seven rolls to last you two weeks, according to the calculator, which you can adjust according to number of people, number of wipes, and number of squares used. Other variables are noted in the analysis.
8 am, 04/02/2020: Costco announced this week it changed its guest policy to deal with the influx of panic shoppers. As a temporary measure, the warehouse store will allow members one guest per membership card. Previously, members could bring up to two guests with them. The company is trying to limit the number of people in the warehouse to create the social distancing suggested by the CDC.
1:30 pm, 04/01/2020: Attorney General Kevin G. Clarkson filed a complaint against Juan Lyle Aune, alleging that Aune profited from the spread of COVID-19 by purchasing thousands of N95 respirators from Alaska stores, and then reselling the respirators on Amazon and eBay for unconscionably high prices. The complaint asks the court to impose a separate $25,000 fine for every such sale Aune made.
“Price gouging is simply unacceptable,” said Clarkson. “The Department of Law is fully committed to taking action against those who would engage in unscrupulous behavior to profit off of COVID-19.”
According to the complaint, Aune purchased respirators from several Alaska stores, including Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Spenard Builder’s Supply. On one trip to Lowe’s, Aune purchased the store’s entire supply of 3M N95 Respirators – a total of 293 20-packs. According to the complaint, Aune told a Lowe’s employee that he was “flipping” the masks for a profit of about $50 per box.
The complaint alleges that Aune generally purchased 20-packs of N95 respirators for $17 to $23 in local stores, before reselling the 20-packs on Amazon for an average price of $89.25. Aune also sold 20-packs of N95 respirators on eBay for as much as $89.99.
Alaskans are encouraged to report price gouging, scams, and deceptive trade practices related to COVID-19 to the Department of Law’s Consumer Protection Unit at [email protected] or calling at 907-269-5200 or 1-888-576-2529.
9:30 pm, 03/31/2020: Alaska Municipal League has a running list of links to dozens of communities and their current health mandates, including travel bans to and from villages. The link is here.
9 pm, 03/31/2020: The Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center closed public beaches, parks, and playgrounds on Monday.
10 am, 03/31/2020: 88 percent of Americans have experienced changes to their lives since COVID-19 hit the U.S., according to new Pew Research Center data. Twelve percent report their lives have remained relatively unchanged. According to the research, 51 percent of Democrats say their life has changed in a major way, compared to 38 percent of Republicans.
Republicans are reporting less psychological distress: 17 percent of Republicans report “high distress” compared to 30 percent of Democrats.
2 pm, 03/30/2020: The Municipality of Anchorage is setting up an emergency medical care center in the Alaska Airlines Center, located across from Providence Hospital on the University of Alaska Anchorage campus. The facility may be able to care for COVID-19 patients who are not needing critical care, but do require some medical care. The facility, usually used for basketball games, has been covered with cots in anticipation of a surge of patients, according to the Emergency Operations Center, now operating out of the Loussac Library. Anchorage, including JBER, Eagle River, Chugiak, and Girdwood, has at least 59 confirmed cases of the Wuhan coronavirus.
2:45 pm, 03/29/2020: The “Quick Test” is coming. The number of tests that have been performed in the United States for COVID-19 now exceed 894,000 Americans. Starting April 2, Abbott Labs will be manufacturing 50,000 new test kits a day that give quicker answers. The Abbott “point-of-care” test has received FDA approval and will be available to urgent care clinics next week. It gives a positive result in five minutes and a negative result in 13 minutes.
2:30 pm, 03/29/2020: President Trump said that Cigna and Humana will be waiving the copays on insurance for costs associated with the coronavirus.
2:15 pm, 03/29/2020: President Trump today extended the current federal guidelines on social distancing to April 30. He said the peak for the contagion COVID-19 and death from the virus is expected to come in two weeks from now.
7 am, 03/28/2020: Anchorage has a shortage of personal protective equipment and medical supplies. The following are needed immediately and Anchorage Emergency Operations is asking for donations: – Non-contact medical grade thermometers, Please see picture attached Universal Transport Media (for guidance see: http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Labs/Documents/LaboratoryTests.pdf#page=23) – Nitrile exam gloves (no latex gloves) – N95 masks – Surgical masks – Medical gowns – Face shields which protect eyes Open and expired PPE are acceptable for donation. Used PPE is not being accepted. Homemade cloth masks for use by Anchorage Fire Department that are made to the following specifications:
Recommended materials include a single layer of tightly-woven material, such as a dish/tea towel or bed sheets/antimicrobial pillowcases.
The materials used must be able to be washed/dried on high heat.
Please wash your hands and keep your area clean when making the masks.
When completed, please bundle masks in packs of 25 or less in a sealed zip lock bag and drop off at the donation center.
Do not make masks if you have any respiratory illness symptoms.
Masks will be laundered by AFD before use.
Open and expired PPE are acceptable for donation, however used PPE is not being accepted.
Please take donations to: CrossFit Alaska 9191 Old Seward Highway Entrance faces Scooter Ave Hours of donation: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM 7 days a week.
6:45 am, 03/28/2020: Late Friday night, President Donald Trump authorized Defense Secretary Mark Esper to order units and individual members in the National Guard and Reserves, as well as “certain Individual Ready Reserve members,” to active duty, the Pentagon announced. The troops will assist with response to the Wuhan coronavirus.
“The Secretaries of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of Homeland Security with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, are authorized to order to active duty not to exceed 24 consecutive months, such units, and individual members of the Ready Reserve under the jurisdiction of the Secretary concerned, not to exceed 1,000,000 members on active duty at any one time, as the Secretary of Defense and, with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy, the Secretary of Homeland Security consider necessary. The Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of Homeland Security, as applicable, will ensure appropriate consultation is undertaken with relevant state officials with respect to the utilization of National Guard Reserve Component units activated under this authority.”
7:15 pm, 03/27/2020: In Ketchikan, the inter-island ferry that operates to Prince of Wales Island will implement a four-day-per-week schedule starting March 28.
The ferry will run Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Passenger service will be limited to essential travel, which means those returning home or traveling for critical medical care, or those transporting essential goods and services. The number of passengers on board has been reduced by 75 percent to allow appropriate space between passengers. More information can be found at the ferry system’s link.
6 pm, 03/27/2020: Alaska is the No. 3 state for the number of citizens tested per capita, said Dr. Anne Zink, Alaska’s chief medical officer. New York is No. 1 in testing.
1 pm, 03/27/2020: Mayor Ethan Berkowitz of Anchorage extended the “hunker down” order through at least April 14, but said that date should not be considered a “hard end.” Orders could continue for a while, he said at a press conference today. Berkowitz said property taxes would be delayed for at least a month, and there will be no utility shut-offs for a month. In addition, any state or federal assistance that people receive will not be garnished for municipal fees or taxes due.
Building permit fees will be reduced by 25 percent, he said, and other fees will be either reduced or rebated, since many permitted businesses like restaurants and bars are not operating.
10 am, 03/27/2020: A Navy hospital ship has arrived in Los Angeles to help with the overflow from hospitals. The USNS Mercy has 1,000 beds and will treat non-coronavirus patients, freeing up local hospitals to focus on the surge of COVID-19 patients
9:30 pm, 03/26/2020: North Pole Mayor Mike Welch was tested Thursday for COVID-19 at Tanana Valley Clinic after experiencing symptoms and being asked to come in for the swab test.
7:30 pm, 03/26/2020: Alaska Medicaid will allow 68-day fills on medications that would normally be limited to 34 days. With the allowed accumulation, this permits a patient to be able to have approximately 10 weeks of medication on-hand. If a specific patient condition warrants, individual exceptions for a day’s supply beyond 68-days can be requested of the pharmacist.
6:32 pm, 03/26/2020: More that 2,400 people have been tested for COVID-19 in Alaska, said Department of Health and Social Services Commissioner Adam Crum. That is less than one percent of Alaskans, but a quick uptick in testing since the first case diagnosed in Alaska just 14 days ago.
5:44 pm, 03/26/2020: KUOW, public broadcasting in Seattle, has decided to stop airing the president’s press conferences on COVID-19 because the station feels they are not factual.
At the same time, President Trump’s approval rating among voters has started to climb in recent days, with the survey site fivethirtyeight.com saying his approval is now over 45 percent.
12:15 pm, 03/26/2020: At least 81,321 people in the U.S. are known to have been infected with the coronavirus, more cases than China, Italy or any other country has seen, according to data gathered by The New York Times.
11:45 am, 03/26/2020: The Port of Seattle has delayed the Alaska cruise season indefinitely.
11 am, 03/26/2020: The second phase of the congressional relief package that passed the Senate will bring $1.5 billion to the State of Alaska. It will also deliver rapid relief to small businesses, and expand unemployment. It will send a surge of resources to medical professions, said Sen. Dan Sullivan. It must be approved by the House.
7:28 am, 03/26/2020: State officials have corrected information about how many are hospitalized in Alaska due to COVID-19. The correct number as of March 25, 2020 is 3.
11:30 pm, 03/25/2020:Mayor Ethan Berkowitz of Anchorage has said the city will not enforce the mandatory 10-cent fee per paper bag that the city requires merchants charge their customers. However, he did not say merchants may issue single-use plastic bags for merchandise and groceries.
10:40 pm, 03/25/2020: A second employee of Fairbanks Memorial Hospital has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. This individual is included in the current count of 59 in Alaska who have been stricken with the virus.
10:35 pm, 03/25/2020: Royal Caribbean has extended the suspension of its cruises through May 12. “Because of announced port closures, we expect to return to service for Alaska, Canada and New England sailings July 1, 2020,” the company said. Norwegian Cruise Line is cutting pay and moving to a four-day work week for most staff.
3 pm, 03/25/2020:The current case count in Alaska is 44. An employee of Fairbanks Memorial Hospital has tested positive for the Wuhan coronavirus. Another Fairbanks person, a patient of the Tanana Chiefs Conference’s Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center, has also tested positive. l
3 pm, 03/25/2020: Jake Metcalfe, the executive director of the largest state employee union in Alaska, is seeking an injunction against the Dunleavy Administration to force all nonessential state employees to work from home for the duration of the coronavirus pandemic. He also wants the court to mandate staggered work hours and social distancing rules for all state employees.
The Alaska State Employees Association represents 7,500 state and municipal employees across the state.
10 am, 03/25/2030: The United States is the world’s third-most infected country by the Wuhan coronavirus. To date, the top three are:
81,661 China
74,386 Italy
60,115 US
5:15 pm, 03/24/2020: The Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan have been postponed by the International Olympics Committee, for about a year.
3:45 pm, 03/24/2020: The U.S. Department of Education has stopped collections of federal student loans that are in default.
3:33 pm, 03/24/2020: First COVID-19 hospitalization is in Juneau at Bartlett Memorial Hospital. This is the second case in Juneau and the person is in the critical care unit. The person had been traveling in Washington State and Portland, Oregon, both known hot spots.
Meanwhile, the case count is up to 39 in Alaska, with two more having been identified in Ketchikan. This brings the total of positive cases in Ketchikan to eight. These two individuals, upon experiencing symptoms of illness, self-quarantined and sought testing through the Creekside Family Medical Clinic. The testing was processed by a private lab. The two do not have a history of recent travel, so these are considered community transmission cases.
8:45 am, 03/24/2020: Alaska Airlines will eliminate 200 flights per day through March 31. This is a 15 percent reduction of its normal flights. The airline is parking 30 jets from its fleet of 230 aircraft. Flights to Hawaii will be extremely limited and the airline will stop flying to Costa Rica, although for now it will keep its Mexico and Canada routes.
8:30 am, 03/24/2020: Washington Gov. Jay Inslee issued a shelter-in-place order Monday evening, something he had been pressured to do for several days. Washingtonians are not to leave their homes except for critical tasks in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
7:46 pm, 03/23/2020: Three Bears market has instituted a ban on the use of personal multi-use shopping bags.
“Our grocery store workers are on the front lines of COVID-19, working tirelessly to keep our community fed. With identified community transmission, we ask that shoppers keep their reusable bags at home given the potential risk to Three Bears customers and employees,” the store notified shoppers, effective at all locations immediately. The stores are located in Wasilla, Palmer, and Kenai.
3:15 pm, 03/23/2020: First National Bank stock price went through large price swings today on the stock market before ending sharply lower.
The current stock price is $176, having recovered from its low of $125 at the close of trading. It appears some entity that owns stock in the bank may have dumped the stock this afternoon.
9 am, 03/23/2020: AlaskaUSA Federal Credit Union has temporarily closed several branches and curtailed operates at others:
Branches temporarily closed:
36th Ave
Abbott
N. Eagle River
Juneau St
W. Dimond
W. Northern Lights
N. Pole
W. Fairbanks
Parks Hwy
Vintage Park
Branches with drive-up and appointment services open Monday – Friday, 11 am to 6 pm:
C St
DeBarr
Dimond
Eagle River
East DeBarr
Huffman
JBER
Northern Lights
W. Abbott
Airport Way
Steese Hwy
Homer
Kenai
Soldotna
Palmer
Wasilla
W. Parks Hwy
Glacier Hwy
In-Store Branches open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 11 am to 6 pm:
Bethel
Ketchikan
Kodiak
8 am, 03/23/2020: PeaceHealth Medical clinics are closed Monday and Tuesday in Ketchikan after two caregivers who work there tested positive for COVID-19. The medical center is one of the largest employers in Ketchikan.
11:15 pm, 03/22/2020: FEMA has set up a rumor control web page pertaining to COVID-19, available at this link.
11 pm, 03/22/2020: Juneau has cancelled its Fourth of July parade. The Fourth of July parade is the biggest community event of the year.
10:30 pm, 03/22/2020:Anchorage Office of Emergency Management reminded residents that the Hunker Down order is in effect in Anchorage as of 10 pm Sunday.
Emergency Order EO-03 directs Anchorage residents and businesses to stay home to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the chance of Anchorage hospitals becoming overwhelmed and unable to treat those who need urgent medical care, the department wrote.
When left unchecked, this virus spreads exponentially. Some models show that without an order to hunker down, hospitals could become overwhelmed within weeks. The predictions of these models are borne out by what is happening in other communities that waited too long to prevent the spread of the virus.
The Hunker Down order mandates that non-critical businesses close their premises, and that residents stay home as much as possible.
“Non-critical businesses encompass any business that is not specifically exempted as a critical business. This includes (but is not limited to): shoe stores, hair salons and barber shops, nail salons, clothing stores, makeup stores, jewelry stores, car dealerships (service and parts may remain open), tattoo parlors, acupuncture, art studios, and sporting goods stores, in-home housekeeping services, babysitting (except to provide support for critical workers). This is in addition to the closure of gyms, movie theaters, indoor recreation centers, bowling alleys, and nightclubs that were closed.
“Non-critical businesses must close their premises; it is not acceptable to simply transform to a curbside or delivery business as that still places too many workers and customers in harm’s way for a non-critical purpose.
“The emergency order includes a list of critical businesses that can continue to operate while implementing social distancing techniques to the maximum extent possible—including switching to curbside or delivery service.
“The critical business list includes health care operations, grocery stores, convenience stores, maintenance and operations of critical infrastructure, first responders, criminal justice personnel, critical government functions, defense and national security-related operations, food cultivation, social services, journalism, gas stations, banks and other financial institutions, hardware stores, plumbers, electricians, mailing and shipping services, laundromats, educational institutions for the purpose of distance learning, restaurants (for takeout and delivery only), transportation services, hotels, childcare facilities (to serve workers in critical jobs only), and some legal and accounting services. For a full list, refer to the emergency order. These businesses should incorporate remote working whenever possible and adhere to CDC social distancing guidelines including maintaining six feet between people.”
9:15 pm – 03/22/2020: Anchorage police will begin wearing personal protective gear — things like masks and nitrile gloves — when physically interacting with the public. This doesn’t necessarily mean that COVID-19 is presenting the situation, but that police are protecting themselves from unnecessary exposure. Also, dispatchers and officers will be asking people questions related to COVID-19 exposure to help prevent exposure.
All community engagement activities and events, such as the ride-a-long program, Coffee with a Cop, public appearance requests and more, have been suspended until further notice. The APD front lobby at its headquarters is closed.
8:30 pm – 03/22/2020: The Seattle Times did not print its Sunday edition today due to the restrictions and general conditions caused by the COVID-19 virus. The newspaper was founded in 1891 and has been operated by the Blethen family since 1896. A note from the publisher advised:
5:30 pm – 03/22/2020: Sitka has been given a “hunker down in place” strong recommendation, issued by the Sitka Emergency Unified Command. Sitkans are asked to stay home in order to stop the spread of COVID-19. If residents need to shop for groceries, they may do so if they do not believe they have been exposed to the virus. Work from home as much as possible. Non-essential businesses are urged, but not required to close for 14 days. Those picking up or dropping off at the airport are urged to use curbside, and not go inside the airport. Anyone traveling into Sitka must quarantine in accordance with DHSS mandates.
4 pm – 03/22/2020: The current count of COVID-19 cases in Alaska is 22.
3:38 pm – 03/22/2020: An update on donating blood to the Blood Bank of Alaska. Please call 907-222-5600 to schedule an appointment. The staff will schedule you in.
11:06 am – 03/22/2020: Homeless men in Anchorage are being moved into the Sullivan Arena, while homeless women are being moved into the Ben Boeke Ice Arena next door. They are being given sleeping pads that are spaced six feet apart.
10:30 am – 03/22/2020: The current count of COVID-19 cases in Alaska is 21.
10 am – 03/22/2020: Senator Rand Paul has tested positive for COVID-19, his office announced on Sunday, adding “he is feeling fine and is in quarantine. He is asymptomatic and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events. He was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person.”
11 pm – 03/21/2020: Gov. Mike Dunleavy has launched a web page devoted to the work of the Economic Stabilization Team.
The page contains links for Small Business Administration loans, unemployment insurance, home mortgage assistance, and other resources that will be added as details are firmed. Share this page with those who may need help.
9:50 pm – 03-21/2020: Senior citizens in the Mat-Su Valley are getting some needed support from the Santa Cop and Heroes program, which applied for and received a $50,000 grant from Southcentral Health Foundation to provide 400 food kits to seniors 60 and older in the valley. Contact them at this link and get on the list for a food drop if you are running low of food, have no family support, and you meet the age qualifications.
8:30 pm – 03/21/2020: New testing protocols for Alaska have been put in place by the Department of Health and Social Services, in response to a shortage of equipment.
Testing supplies are running low. Until the shortage is resolved, health care providers are now prioritizing testing to specific groups. Health care providers do not need to call the Alaska Section of Epidemiology to approve testing, but those patients who are asymptomatic may not be tested. Here is what the testing technicians are being advised:
Patients who have a clinically compatible illness (e.g., fever, cough, or shortness of breath) AND at least one of the following criteria should be considered for testing:
12 pm – 03/21/2020: North Star Borough Mayor Bryce Ward announced an emergency declaration on Friday. The declaration will help with the procurement of aid and assistance from State and federal agencies when they become available. The borough is home to nearly 100,000 Alaskans and encompasses Eielson Air Force Base, Salcha, Fox, Two Rivers, and Chena Hot Springs.
11:30 am – 03/21/2020: Kenai Borough offices are closed to the public. Borough employees will still conduct government business under modified work schedules during regular business hours Monday – Friday. Those who can, will work from home, while others will come to work and practice the recommended guidance to ensure safe workspaces. You can also find contact information by department at www.kpb.us.
The Central Peninsula Landfill and transfer sites will continue to remain open to the public. Steps have been put in place for staff and the public’s protection. Please follow directional signage and staff instructions.
Dispatch and Fire/EMS will maintain operations; however, public will not be allowed to enter these facilities. First responders are following guidance specific to call outs. Nikiski Fire Service Area will continue their potable water service to residents with modifications.
Kenai Borough residents are asked to use the drop box located by the main front doors of the Borough Administrative Building (BAB) to deposit payments or department-specific documents, or mail delivery:
Kenai Peninsula Borough Attn: Department Name 144 N. Binkley Street Soldotna AK 99669
8 am – 03/21/2020: Anchorage medical community is experiencing a shortage of personal protective equipment such as nitrile gloves, face masks and medical gowns. They are asking providers and businesses to donate. Due to global demand, there is no definitive shipping date for more these items. The national demand for PPE and Alaska’s distance from suppliers, avoiding PPE shortages in Anchorage will require stretching existing supplies as long as possible. The following is needed immediately:
Nitrile exam gloves (no latex gloves)
N95 masks
Surgical masks
Medical gowns
Face shields that protect eyes
Please take Personal Protective Equipment to:
CrossFit Alaska 9191 Old Seward Highway Entrance faces Scooter Ave
Hours of donation: 9 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week. For questions, email [email protected] or call 907-343-4019
4:30 pm – 03/20/2020:The City and Borough of Juneau implemented voluntary temperature checks for travelers arriving at the Juneau International Airport. Passengers with a temperature of 100.4 F will be advised to contact a medical provider and to self-quarantine.
4:15 pm – 03/20/2020: A shortage of testing swabs has led Anchorage Office of Emergency Management to ask doctors to donate swabs, or the current Anchorage supply will be exhausted on Sunday. Due to global demand, there is no definitive shipping date for more swabs.
The following swabs are needed immediately: Nasopharyngeal swab with synthetic tip (ex. Dacron, Nylon, Polyester), with non-wooden shaft. NP swab should have sterile tube containing 2-3ml viral transport media (VTM) Please take swabs to: Drive Thru COVID19 Testing Site 4115 Lake Otis Parkway
Please use the back entrance/ employee parking lot (behind the tan and brown building). Hours of donation: 9:00 AM- 7:00 PM 7 days a week.
3:30 pm – 03/20/2020: Must Read Alaskahas learned that Mayor Ethan Berkowitz will order all Anchorage residents to shelter in place beginning this evening.
3:25 pm – 03/20/2020: An employee of the office of the Vice President has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a statement.
“This evening we were notified that a member of the Office of the Vice President tested positive for the Coronavirus,” wrote Pence Press Secretary Katie Miller. “Neither President Trump nor Vice President Pence had close contact with the individual. Further contact tracing is being conducted in accordance with CDC guidelines.”
11 am – 03/20/2020: President Donald Trump said the U.S. Department of Education will not require standardized testing for students in elementary through high school for the current school year.
10 am – 03/20/2020:The Anchorage Health Department and satellite locations have limited services to phone and appointments only, effective March 19.
Many services and benefits will be available via telephone or limited to in-person appointments; no in-person business or services will be available without an appointment. The contact numbers for the resources are:
• Community Health Nursing: 343-4799 • Aging and Disability Resource Center: 343-7770 • Women, Infants and Children: 343-4668 • Child Care Licensing: 343-4758 • Environmental Health (Food and Air): 343-4200 • Community Safety and Development: 343-4822 • Main Number: 343-6718
9:42 am – 03/20/2020:
How many cases? 255,729 worldwide. Known in Alaska: 12. Every person typically infects two others.
– Did it start in a Wuhan lab? The coronavirus may have originated in a government laboratory 300 yards from the Wuhan fish market where the authorities say the outbreak started, the Daily Mailreports.
– California is sheltering in place: 40 million Californians have been ordered to stay home indefinitely, only going out for essential jobs, errands, and solitary exercise, Gov. Gavin Newsom said. He warned the public that the patients who are contracting the coronavirus — 1,000 now in the Golden State — may soon overwhelm the state medical facilities.
– New York going into lockdown: Gov. Cuomo is shutting down all non-essential businesses across the state, leaving just grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential operations open. He is banning all non-solitary outside activity, like outdoor basketball games and other team sports and he is requiring all non-essential government and private-sector employees to work from home, starting Sunday.
– President Trump has closed almost all traffic but commercial trucks at the southern border with Mexico.
– The Trump Administration has postponed the IRS income tax deadline to July 15.
10:15 pm – 03/19/2020:The U.S. Supreme Court has closed its building to the public and postponed its March argument session, which was to begin March 23.
10 pm – 03/19/2020:Funerals and weddings are among the events now banned in Washington State, as the epicenter of the coronavirus tries to get a handle on social distancing.
10 pm – 03/19/2020: Alaska Public Offices Commission is closed to walk-in traffic until further notice. APOC offices will remain staffed and will continue to serve the public and respond through alternative forms of contact including post mail, email, fax, and telephone, during its normal business hours of 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
9:45 pm – 03/19/2020: Although the Blood Bank of Alaska is in need of blood, it’s asking for a voluntary 28-day deferral for anyone who has traveled out of state and to foreign countries in the last five weeks, and a 28-day deferral for donations for all travel out of state.
2:50 pm – 03/19/2020: An active-duty Airman has tested positive for COVID-19 on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. The member recently returned from overseas travel and is following public health protocols while self-quarantined at his or her off-base residence.
JBER officials have ordered Health Protection Condition Bravo and are continually monitoring the situation while working closely with local, state and federal agencies.
12:50 pm – 03/19/2020: Anchorage Police Department has closed its front counter at its headquarters due to a significant drop in public visits. As a result, APD has put together resources to helping the public online and/or via the phone.
During this time, the traffic citations will be handled via paying by phone at 907-786-2429.
Subject line should be your last name and citation number. Attach these necessary documents, as appropriate:
Proof of insurance- Photo: must show you had insurance at the time the ticket was issued.
Proof of Registration- Photo: must show documents of registration from the DMV and photo of license plate with the new sticker on your vehicle.
Headlight/Taillight- Photo: must show vehicle with lights on and license plate visible.
Window Tint- Two Photos: must show entire driver side door of vehicle and include photo from front of vehicle showing license plate.
Proof of Driver’s License- Call 786-8600, ext 2.
11:30 am – 03/19/2020 – Simon Malls, owner of the Fifth Avenue Mall in Anchorage, has closed all of its malls across the nation until March 29.
“The health and safety of our shoppers, retailers and employees is of paramount importance and we are taking this step to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our communities,” the company wrote.
8:40 am – 03/19/2020: The U.S. State Department will announce a Level Four travel advisory instructing all Americans abroad to return home or to shelter in place because of the global threat of the coronavirus. This is its most stringent warning. Just four days ago, the department raised the travel advisory to Level 3, with strong recommendations. Under Level Four, Americans will be strongly advised not to travel abroad.
8:40 am – 03/19/2020: The U.S. embassies in Mexico have suspended routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa services starting March 18, 2020, and until further notice. The U.S. Embassy and consulates will continue to provide essential consular services to U.S. citizens in Mexico as well as emergency visa services. The closure will effect the seasonal labor supply for American farms and fisheries.
11:32 pm – 03/18/2020: Bartlett Regional Hospital in Juneau has instituted screening for patients and visitors for symptoms of COVID-19, along with travel history and possible exposure to the virus. Families, staff, and departments in the hospital are restricting access and enforcing visitor control policy, including:
For hospitalized patients:
Limit one visitor on the units at any time.
No visitors are allowed in the Hospital from 8 p.m. – 6 a.m. overnight, unless accompanying a newly admitted patient or a maternity patient.
No visitors under age 16.
Visitation rules may be more restricted on units and floors with patients who have reduced immune systems or special populations.
Exceptions: End of life” situations, minor patients (≤18 years old) may have two visitors but this is limited to only parents or guardians, and individuals with significant physical disabilities are limited to one support person in addition to a visitor.
11:25 pm – 03/18/2020: Homer Mayor Ken Castner declared an official emergency in response to COVID-19 in Alaska and in support of COVID-9 prevention measures being implemented throughout the Borough and the State. The declaration will be effective for seven days, and then may extend if the City Council ratifies it at its meeting on March 23. The declaration creates a unified command structure with local responder agencies and South Peninsula Hospital.
4 pm – 03/18/2020: The known positive cases in Alaska increased by three on Wednesday, increasing it the total to nine. Two of the new cases are in Anchorage, one is in the Seward area. All three are travel related, with one coming from Europe, and the other two from the Lower 48.
3:30 pm – 03/18/2020: The first member of Congress to test positive for the coronavirus is Mario Diaz-Balart, a Republican who represents southwestern Miami-Dade County.
2 pm – 03/18/2020:Alyeska Resort has closed the ski area for the remainder of the season. closing its ski area for the remainder of the winter season. “As of today, March 18, 2020, all Alyeska Resort mountain operations, including lifts, aerial tramway, rentals, Mountain Learning Center and restaurants will be closed. Our decision to close the resort was not easily made but we feel these measures are necessary out of concern for the health and safety of our community, guests, employees, and the surrounding communities of Southcentral Alaska,” the management wrote on Facebook.
2 pm – 03/18/2020: Canada and the United States have restricted non-essential travel across the border. Both countries say supply chains will not be impacted, but travelers going north and south for recreational or tourism purposes will be turned back. key supplies will still flow between the two nations. President Donald Trump posted a note on Twitter this morning.
12 pm – 03/18/2020: The U.S. Census has suspended field operations for at least two weeks. The Census Bureau is asking everyone to respond online at 2020Census.gov. Door-knockers will not be utilized for now. The Census will continue to accept online, phone and mail responses.
9 am – 03/18/2020:Pikka, the oil prospect hope for the Alaska economy, has been deferred by Oil Search until prices improve. Oil is in the low 20s today.
8:45 am – 03/18/2020:Seattle area is running out of masks, leading volunteers to start making them by hand for hospitals.
A group of volunteers at Providence St. Joseph Health on Tuesday started sewing surgical masks and constructing face shields with marine-grade vinyl, strips of foam, elastic bands, and double-stick tape.
8 am – 03/18/2020: Blood Bank of Alaska is low on O negative and O positive blood donors and need continual blood donations of all blood types in order to meet the need for blood in Anchorage and throughout Alaska. To meet current blood needs, 700 donations are needed in the coming weeks.
The Blood Bank of Alaska is taking donations by appointment only in order to ensure the safety of donors and staff. To donate call 907-222-5630 or visit www.bloodbankofalaska.org to make an appointment
9:25 pm – 03/17/2020: Amazon has suspended receiving nonessentials such as TVs and toys in its warehouses so it can focus on stocking household staples and medical supplies. The crush of orders forced the decision as Americans are avoiding stores and placing orders online for everyday goods.
8:25 pm – 03/17/2020: A Canadian government official told The Seattle Times on Tuesday that Canada and the US are working on announcing a mutual ban on non-essential travel between the two countries.
8:25 pm – 03/17/2020: Hospital systems in Seattle are reporting two dozen hospital workers have been infected with the coronavirus, putting a strain on the medical infrastructure at the heart of the outbreak in the U.S.
7:20 pm – 03/17/2020: The State of Alaska is closing all bars and restaurants statewide on Wednesday at 5 pm, except for take-out food or deliveries, as well as other closing facilities, such as bowling alleys, by order of the chief medical officer.
The Department of Health and Social Services is also suspending all long-term services and supports that occur in “congregate settings,” including senior centers, adult day services, and any site-based day habilitation or supported employment activities where individuals gather together.
5:40 pm – 03/17/2020: The Port of Alaska remains open and the shippers are on a normal shipping schedule. COVID-19 has not disrupted the arrival of goods to Alaska, according to a news release from the Municipality.
“Food and supplies are at normal levels in Anchorage, and demand is currently high, creating empty store shelves. More goods are on the way, however delays of about one week in restocking shelves may happen due to the time it will take from time of order to stocking shelves in Anchorage and Alaska. The Municipality encourages residents to be patient as store shelves are restocked.”
5:20 pm – 03/17/2020: The State Department of Health and Social Services has issued guidelines for parents whose children attend day care centers:
The department, per CDC recommendation, is advising that child care facilities stay open if they safely can do so. Health officials do not want children to be cared for by elders, because people aged greater than 60 years are at increased risk for severe COVID-19 illness. Employers are encouraged to talk to their workforce. We also know that children, while they may carry the disease, get sick from COVID-19 much less frequently than adults.
The guidance for child care centers is thus:
Follow aggressive measures to screen children for respiratory infection and do not allow any ill child into a child care center.
No child who has been outside of Alaska in the last 14 days should be allowed in a child care center.
No one who has a fever or respiratory symptoms should be allowed to work in a child care center.
Keep numbers below 10 for group settings.
Cohort kids, keeping the same group of kids together.
Adhere to social distancing (at least six feet) to limit mixing.
Spend time in well-ventilated spaces as much as possible.
Practice frequent and rigorous environmental cleaning.
No one over the age of 60 or with underlying medical conditions should be working in child care centers.
Families should consider alternative child care opportunities, if possible.
5 pm – 03/17/2020: A mobile testing station has been set up by Providence in a parking lot on Lake Otis Blvd., right next to Bernie’s Pharmacy:
Mobile testing began on Tuesday, next to Bernie’s Pharmacy, in an adjacent parking lot on Lake Otis Blvd.
3:30 pm – 03/17/2020: Johns Hopkins University says that over 100 people in the United States have died from the coronavirus in less than one month since the community spread of the virus was first reported on Feb. 26. There are now over 5,894 confirmed cases and 105 deaths, and 200,000 cases globally.
3 pm- 03/17/2020: The Alaska Democratic Party has closed its headquarters on Fairbanks Street in Anchorage. The five employees of the party are working remotely. The Alaska Republican Party, which only staffs its offices part time, could not be reached for comment.
The City and Borough of Juneau has declared an emergency, allowing it to draw in more help from the state and federal government for health and safety measures, and purchase needed emergency supplies. The resolution of Monday night will assist local business as they apply for federal loans and assistance.
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly held a special emergency meeting on Tuesday. Among agenda items was sending a letter to Alaska’s congressional delegation, urging suspension of the Jones Act. The assembly will also discuss emergency measures and the lifting of cumbersome borough code during the emergency.
Gov. Mike Dunleavy is ending the reign of Mark Springer, chairman of the Marijuana Control Board. Springer’s term ends on March 1.
While showing Springer the door, the governor reappointed Christopher Jaime, a State Trooper from Soldotna. And he added Casey Dschaak of Dillingham to the rural seat that is held by Springer for a few more weeks.
Springer, of Bethel, is a vocal opponent of the governor’s overall agenda and, critics say he loathes Dunleavy’s very existence.
In addition to signing the recall petition, he has used his time during board meetings to express his hostility toward the Administration and brags about the Recall Dunleavy sticker on his coffee mug.
Springer has been at odds with his fellow board members as well as the governor. When the matter of whether to retain former alcohol and marijuana agency director Erika McConnell came up, Springer, as chairman, refused to put it on the agenda until he was forced to by other board members.
McConnell had already been “fired” by the Alcohol Beverage Control Board, to whom she also reported, but it took a vote of the Marijuana Control Board to remove her. Springer voted against her removal, but she was fired anyway by a majority of the board, with only one other vote, from board member Loren Jones, favoring McConnell’s retention.
Dschaak, the incoming member of the board, he served in the U.S. Army and works in the field of logistics in Dillingham.
The Marijuana Control Board meets next week in Juneau and will select a new chair from the members.
Readers will notice that Must Read Alaska took on a new look over the weekend. It went from a blog to a sleek news site.
Like anything, it will take some getting used to, especially on the production side of things, but will allow this one-woman news operation to have a more rapid response to events of the day.
I’ll continue to refine the categories over the coming weeks, and while I work at it night and day, want to extend my thanks to everyone who has donated to the cause of giving an alternative view of what is presented in the mainstream media.
Feel free to join in the fun and send a donation to:
Must Read Alaska
3201 C Street Suite 308
Anchorage, Alaska 99503
The Alaska House Transportation Committee convened yesterday to refine legislation shaping the state’s future mobility landscape. Lawmakers adopted targeted amendments to House Bill 217 on autonomous vehicles before holding it for further review, then moved to discuss House Bill 303 on motor vehicle registration. The session underscored the need to balance innovation with practical enforcement and alignment with federal standards.
The committee opened with HB 217, which seeks to establish a regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles, particularly commercial applications. Two amendments were adopted without objection. Representative Mina’s (D – Anchorage) Amendment A2 defined “personal delivery devices” (small sidewalk robots) to exclude them from the broader autonomous vehicle definition, preventing municipal regulatory confusion. “The defines those little robots, which are actually called personal delivery devices in statute,” Mina explained.
Representative Nelson’s (R – Sutton) Amendment A1 narrowed the bill’s scope to commercial vehicles such as big rigs and large passenger carriers. “This really dials it into commercial vehicles, saying exactly what it’ll be applied to, which is what our discussion all revolved around,” Nelson stated.
Discussion intensified when Representative McCabe (R – Big Lake) raised enforcement challenges, questioning fault determination, human operator verification, and ethical decision-making in crash scenarios. Emerging Technologies Coordinator Benjamin Glenn from the Department of Transportation provided key context: the bill targets SAE levels 3-5 automation, but verification relies on operator statements or post-incident data since capabilities are software-based. “The bill just defines capability, not any external markers,” Glenn noted.
Co-Chair Carrick (D – Fairbanks) emphasized keeping the bill narrowly focused on commercial vehicles rather than opening a broader autonomy debate. After Glenn’s input on federal preemption risks (HR 7390) and the need for ongoing stakeholder work, the committee held HB 217 and reopened the amendment deadline.
HB 303 – Updating Vehicle Title Requirements for Modern Standards
The committee then turned to HB 303, sponsored by Representative St. Clair (R – Wasilla), which aligns Alaska with federal and most state standards by establishing a 25-year rolling average for vehicle title requirements. No amendments were offered. St. Clair described it as straightforward modernization: “This is simple common-sense legislation. It’s just bringing us on par with the feds and most other states with a 25-year rolling average.”
With no discussion, Representative Stutes (R – Kodiak) moved the bill, which advanced unanimously with a “do pass” recommendation and zero fiscal note.
Next week’s “Tech Week” agenda includes presentations on drone innovation and Department of Transportation technology initiatives. The actions signal legislative intent to modernize transportation rules while addressing practical implementation hurdles for emerging technologies.
Alaskans from across the state delivered a clear message during Thursday’s Senate Finance Committee public testimony session: invest now in renewable energy, domestic violence services, early childhood programs, education, tourism marketing and transportation infrastructure to safeguard communities, stabilize budgets and prevent long-term costs. The next two-days of hearings will cover the FY27 operating budget (SB 213), capital budget (SB 214), mental health budget (SB 215) and the current-year supplemental adjustments in House Bill 289.
A resident from Ketchikan, speaking for Southeast utilities and the region’s economic development group, called for $14.2 million — the recent three-year average — or at minimum $10 million for the Renewable Energy Fund. He cited Alaska Energy Authority data showing REF projects already offset 13 million gallons of diesel annually, worth $52 million at conservative pricing — more than the Power Cost Equalization endowment can sustainably pay out. Without continued REF support, he warned, PCE pro-ration risks rise and rural schools, businesses and jobs in mining, timber and seafood would suffer higher energy costs.
Multiple residents from rural communities and hub towns, including those in Southeast and Kodiak, echoed calls for a $2.5 million increase to the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault grant line in the Department of Public Safety, with $500,000 specifically for civil legal services. One advocate from Prince of Wales Island described how flat funding since 2017 forces programs to cut emergency shelter, transportation and basic needs support even as demand rose 53 percent in her area last year. “We may be forced to do away with critical services,” she said, noting grocery prices alone have climbed more than 60 percent.
Education and early childhood priorities dominated testimony from Juneau and Southeast residents. A Juneau parent highlighted 600 open teaching positions statewide at the start of the school year and urged sustained base student allocation growth beyond last year’s $20 increase. Another Juneau resident, an early childhood professional, pressed for $5.72 million to restore and expand the Alaska Infant Learning Program, shifting eligibility from 50 percent to 25 percent developmental delay. She also supported full use of the $5.9 million FY26 childcare benefits appropriation and another round of Roots Awards retention stipends, noting turnover remains the biggest operational challenge for providers.
Tourism leaders from Skagway and Sitka framed marketing as economic infrastructure. A Sitka official requested $10 million in statewide tourism marketing funds, citing 5.6 billion dollars in total economic impact and 48,000 jobs supported last year. A Sitka business owner emphasized shoulder-season independent travel, noting that visitors who saw Alaska Travel Industry Association campaigns were twice as likely to visit and that such spending keeps coastal communities viable year-round.
Infrastructure and fiscal stability also surfaced. A resident from Cordova stressed the need for timely federal transportation matching funds to avoid delaying projects halfway through the short construction season, while a Sitka-area advocate urged repayment of the Higher Education Investment Fund. A Haines resident highlighted cost-effective home modifications in the mental health budget that keep seniors and veterans independent rather than in distant facilities.
General feedback on HB 289 — the current-year supplemental — showed strong alignment with the committee’s February 25 scrutiny of its $467.7 million package. Residents urged swift approval of the $70.2 million DOT match and disaster/fire suppression capitalizations to prevent construction delays and maintain response capacity amid ongoing events. Many echoed OMB Director Lacey Sanders’ warnings on oil revenue volatility and the value of headroom, while pushing for proactive REF and CDVSA investments to reduce future PCE and social service burdens. The Must Read Alaska report on the prior day’s session noted the committee’s focus on a $52 million revenue shortfall, $40 million disaster relief request and $98.7 million fire suppression need, with Sanders stressing urgency to avoid defaults. Public testimony Thursday reinforced those risks, calling for stable funding to avert compounding shortfalls.
One Juneau resident captured the prevailing sentiment: “We have the tools, we have the resources. We really just need the will.”
Public testimony continues today with northern and western regions. With HB 289 expected back next week, lawmakers face pressure to balance immediate supplemental needs against long-term FY27 priorities amid persistent revenue uncertainty.
The Alaska Senate Labor and Commerce Committee held its second hearing on Senate Bill 150, a measure aimed at establishing a standardized net metering program to boost renewable energy generation across the state. The meeting focused on recapping the bill’s provisions, analyzing potential pitfalls from other states’ experiences, and discussing a draft committee substitute. While no formal action was taken, the discussion highlighted tensions between incentivizing solar adoption and ensuring equitable costs for all utility customers.
SB 150 seeks to allow consumer-generators—typically homeowners with solar panels—to receive full retail credits for excess energy fed back into the grid. Curtis Thayer from the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) provided a recap, explaining that credits would accrue monthly and expire annually on March 31, promoting renewable investments by matching the rate consumers pay for purchased energy. A key feature is a reimbursement fund administered by AEA to mitigate utility revenue shortfalls, potentially preventing rate hikes for non-solar customers.
Gwen Holdmann, Chief Scientist at the Alaska Center for Energy and Power (ACEP), delivered an analysis, drawing lessons from states like Hawaii and California, where initial net metering policies have been reformed due to unintended consequences. She categorized issues into equity and cost-shifting, grid value of distributed solar, system caps, and battery storage promotion. On equity, Holdmann warned that paying full retail for excess power shifts fixed grid costs—such as maintenance—to non-solar users, potentially increasing their bills. “This cost shift still occurs. It’s just that we’re socializing it in a different way more at the state level,” Holdmann said, noting the fund’s uniqueness but lack of automatic funding mechanism.
Senator Rob Yundt (R – Wasilla) voiced concerns about disproportionate impacts: “It seems like it would disproportionately hurt those that don’t have solar.” Holdmann affirmed this, suggesting alternatives like utility-determined caps or innovative rate structures, such as monthly system charges for solar users to cover grid services. She also recommended trimming the bill’s list of qualifying technologies, excluding unlikely small-scale options like geothermal or ocean thermal energy.
Questions arose about the Regulatory Commission of Alaska’s (RCA) authority. Holdmann expressed doubt whether current statutes allow utilities to voluntarily implement full retail net metering without legislative changes, citing equity restrictions within rate classes. RCA’s Julie Vogler clarified that SB 150 amends discrimination statutes to exclude net metering, and existing regulations (3 AAC 5 900-949) would need updates. Thayer emphasized the need for legislative guidance, as utilities lack a unified plan and seek parameters for fair implementation.
Chair Bjorkman (R – Nikiski) noted a draft committee substitute incorporating some of Holdmann’s concepts, distributed for review but not formally adopted. “It merely is a draft for this iterative process to continue,” he said, aiming for a system that’s “fair and equitable as well as encourage people to build out additional electricity generation.”
The bill aligns with broader efforts to expand solar access, potentially making installations more economical by allowing annual credit rollovers to offset winter shortfalls. Advocates like Cook Inletkeeper argue it could incentivize larger systems, reducing reliance on gas amid shortages. However, critics worry about uncapping net metering without safeguards, as seen in other states where saturation strained grids.
SB 150 was set aside, with potential amendments addressing funding, caps, and equity.
Alaska Senate Finance Committee, reviewed the Governor’s proposed FY2026 supplemental budget, addressing a projected $467.7 million shortfall driven by declining oil revenues, escalating disaster costs, and operational necessities. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Lacey Sanders presented the package, emphasizing the need for swift action to avoid payment defaults, program interruptions, and construction delays. The hearing highlighted fiscal prudence amid oil price fluctuations, with a mid-March revenue forecast from the Department of Revenue poised to potentially alter the deficit outlook.
Sanders framed the discussion around unrestricted general funds, noting the supplemental’s scale: “$467.7 million is a substantial amount for a supplemental.” This figure stems from a $52 million revenue shortfall, down from a $68 per barrel oil price assumption last spring to $65.48 in the fall forecast. She stressed volatility: recent prices have climbed to around $70, but dips to near $60 remain possible, underscoring the need for “headroom” in appropriations to buffer against further declines.
Key components include $35.6 million for formula programs. The Department of Health requested $1.125 million for the Senior Benefits Program due to increased utilization, warning that without it, payments to eligible seniors would cease. More significantly, Medicaid needs $34.4 million in state funds plus $361 million in federal authority, based on mid-February projections. Sanders explained: without this, the state would halt $14 million bi-weekly check runs to providers, leading to defaults and compounding arrears into FY2027.
Fund capitalizations total $138.7 million, with $40 million for the Disaster Relief Fund to cover the October Ha Long storm (estimated at $150 million total, assuming a 90/10 FEMA match) and repay $10 million borrowed from a Department of Environmental Conservation project. An appeal for the 90/10 split is pending; denial would revert to 75/25, increasing state exposure. Sanders noted Alaska faces “about a disaster a month,” projecting $4-6 million remaining if no more occur by June. Fire Suppression requires $98.7 million, including $55 million from interim declarations and $43.7 million for prior obligations and spring preparedness, leaving $7-8 million cushion.
Statewide items amount to $127 million, featuring $2.5 million in debt service savings from bond refunding by the Department of Revenue. A $70.2 million capital supplemental recapitalizes the Alaska Higher Education Investment Fund from the Constitutional Budget Reserve (CBR), reversing last year’s drawdown. Operational needs total $44 million, including $3.3 million (multi-year) for Public Defender Agency contractors to clear backlogs, $4.7 million for Department of Corrections health care, and $1.25 million for Village Public Safety Officers (VPSOs) to fill vacancies.
A $70.2 million capital item for Department of Transportation (DOT) federal matching drew urgency. Senator James Kaufman (R – Anchorage) pressed: “I honestly don’t want to see projects delayed another year,” citing three years of instability. Sanders confirmed executive support, with Chair Stedman (R – Sitka) affirming timeliness to stabilize the industry. Without July 1 funding, projects risk deferral.
Comparing to House Bill 289 ($489.9 million), Sanders noted differences: a $2 million Medicaid reduction, $43 million more for fire suppression, and House inclusions like $30 million headroom and $35 million disaster contingency. Headroom, she explained, preauthorizes CBR draws via three-quarter vote, providing flexibility without repeated supermajorities. Stedman clarified legislative control: “We can still turn it down.”
Recent amendments (February 18) include Medicaid tweaks, VPSO funds, Economic Research Group retention adjustments to combat turnover, and bond savings. These post-date HB 289’s cutoff, so the Senate will incorporate them upon receipt.
Concerns arose over $1 million for “statehood defense” in the Department of Law, with Senator Jesse Kiehl (D – Juneau) questioning its use for cases potentially misaligned with Alaska sovereignty. Stedman noted planned scrutiny in the operating budget.
Sanders projected 98% confidence in stabilizing funds like fire suppression via reimbursements. The committee intends swift action on HB 289, prioritizing essentials while monitoring FEMA and revenue updates.
This supplemental addresses immediate gaps but underscores Alaska’s fiscal challenges: oil dependency, rising disasters, and program demands. Public testimony is slated for upcoming sessions, with regional access. As Sanders concluded, “Always happy to help answer questions,” signaling ongoing collaboration.
In a tense and probing session yesterday afternoon in Juneau, the Alaska Senate Resources Committee scrutinized the state’s evolving role in the 8 Star Alaska LLC for the Alaska Gasline and LNG project, a multi-billion-dollar endeavor aimed at monetizing North Slope natural gas. Chaired by Senator Cathy Giessel (R – Anchorage), the meeting highlighted lawmakers’ frustrations over limited access to governance documents and the project’s shift from public-led to private-developer control. Presenters from the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC), including President Frank Richards and Commercial Director Matt Kissinger, defended the structure as a strategic pivot to attract private investment while preserving state benefits, but faced sharp questions on control, valuation, and timelines.
The hearing focused solely on Alaska’s interest in 8 Star Alaska LLC, reflecting the project’s significance amid Alaska’s energy challenges. AGDC, established in 2010 and bolstered by legislation in 2013 and 2014, was tasked with maximizing North Slope gas for local and global markets. Richards traced the project’s history: from an equity partnership with major producers like Exxon, BP, and ConocoPhillips, which faltered, to a 2016 restructuring recommended by consultants Wood Mackenzie. This led to a tolling model and project finance approach, culminating in federal approvals from FERC and other agencies.
A pivotal change occurred in March 2025 when AGDC transferred 75% of 8 Star LLC—a subsidiary holding permits, engineering, and rights-of-way—to Glenfarne Group, LLC, for an in-kind commitment to advance the project to Final Investment Decision (FID), valued at around $150 million. AGDC retains a 25% stake, with transition completed by July 1, 2025. Kissinger detailed the series LLC structure: a “TopCo” (8 Star Alaska LLC) oversees three subprojects—Arctic Carbon Capture (8 Star ACC, LLC), the 800-mile pipeline (8 Star Pipeline, LLC), and the LNG terminal (8 Star LNG, LLC) in Nikiski—allowing specialized investor participation while centralizing authorizations.
Lawmakers pressed on governance and control. Senator Bill Wielechowski (D – Anchorage) questioned the state’s diminished influence, noting Glenfarne’s majority board seats. Kissinger countered that minority protections, including unanimous consent on key matters, provide influence beyond voting. However, when Giessel demanded redacted operating agreements to verify these safeguards—citing over $1 billion in public investment since 2014—Kissinger cited confidentiality, requiring Glenfarne’s approval. “We’re unable to share those agreements… they are confidential,” he said. Giessel insisted on disclosure, emphasizing fiduciary duties under statute to deliver “maximum benefit” to Alaskans.
The discussion delved into the integrated project’s scope: removing CO2 via ACC for liquefaction, transporting gas south, and enabling exports of up to 20 million tonnes per year (MTPA). Senator Scott Kawasaki (D – Fairbanks) clarified ACC’s necessity, while Wielechowski probed ownership flows. AGDC owns 25% of the parent LLC, receiving distributions from retained subproject equity post-sell-down, with an optional “back-in” right for 5-25% direct investment within six months of FID—no obligation to fund to maintain the parent stake.
Phasing emerged as a flashpoint. Phase 1 prioritizes the pipeline for in-state gas delivery, estimated at $10.8 billion, with full build-out adding $33 billion for ACC and LNG. Richards expressed high optimism for Railbelt utilities facing supply shortages: “I put my confidence level at 98 percent” that the line will be built, alleviating needs for LNG imports. This confidence stems from milestones like gas supply agreements with Exxon, Hilcorp, ConocoPhillips (in principle), and Pantheon; letters of intent with Enstar and Donlin Gold; FEED completion by Worley; and two-thirds of pipe supply contracted.
Pricing projections varied: $16 per MMBtu for Phase 1, dropping to $5 at full volume due to economies of scale. Senator Myers (R – North Pole) noted Fairbanks’ current $24 rates would benefit, while Anchorage might see increases from $10, though Kissinger warned Cook Inlet contracts are rising to $16-20 anyway.
Transparency dominated closing remarks. Vice Chair Senator Matt Claman (D – Anchorage) lamented limited state access compared to private investors under NDAs. Giessel challenged the project’s alignment with Senate Bill 138 (2014), arguing it “morphed into something materially different.” She reiterated demands for documents, noting a similar request to Glenfarne’s Adam Prestidge.
The session adjourned with clear action items: AGDC to seek redacted disclosures and justify refusals.
This hearing underscores Alaska’s push for energy independence amid global LNG demand, but highlights tensions between commercial sensitivity and public accountability. With FID and pipe-laying possibly by December 2026, the project could transform the state’s economy—creating jobs, securing supplies, and generating revenue—yet lawmakers demand proof it serves Alaskans first.
The committee heard SJR 25, a resolution sponsored by Senator Scott Kawasaki (D – Fairbanks) urging the continuation and modernization of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Enacted in 2020 with bipartisan backing, the agreement faces a pivotal review in 2026, and the resolution aims to preserve its benefits while removing trade obstacles. Kawasaki framed it as essential for Alaska, given its close ties to Canada—its primary trading partner and land-border neighbor—supporting supply chains, jobs, and economic stability.
The presentation began lightheartedly with hockey banter, celebrating the UAF Nanooks’ Governor’s Cup win, before delving into the topic at hand. Staffer Samuel Marquardt detailed USMCA’s role in predictable trade, noting Alaska’s reliance on Canadian transit for goods like construction materials and fuel. He warned that missing the 2026 review could delay updates until 2032, injecting uncertainty. Senator Gray-Jackson (D – Anchorage) questioned Mexico’s role, prompting Kawasaki to affirm the tri-national scope, though Canada dominates Alaska’s trade volumes.
Chair Bjorkman (R – Nikiski) raised dynamic risks, referencing recent violence in Mexico trapping Alaskans and a Supreme Court decision on tariffs potentially enabling unilateral presidential changes. Kawasaki preferred keeping the resolution focused on trade architecture, avoiding geopolitical entanglements. He noted tariffs as consumer cost drivers and praised the Trump-era renegotiation.
Invited testimony from Steven Myers of the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER) reinforced the case, citing post-2020 trade growth of 56% and $343 billion in Canadian investment, supporting over 20,000 Alaska jobs. Myers emphasized stability for energy, minerals, and Arctic logistics, with the July 2026 joint review as a critical juncture.
Myers highlighted economic interdependence: “Canadian trade supports more than twenty thousand Alaska jobs, with nearly six thousand additional jobs provided by Canadian-owned businesses operating in the state.” The committee set SJR 25 aside for further consideration, potentially incorporating amendments on barriers or tariff implications. Rationale centers on sustaining investment and supply chains, especially Alaska-Canada corridors, without delving into crises. This resolution underscores Alaska’s strategic position in North American trade, where USMCA has driven growth amid global uncertainties. Unresolved elements include integrating Mexico-specific language and addressing tariff jurisprudence, as per legislative tracking. If advanced, it could influence federal negotiations, benefiting sectors like tourism and defense.
The House Finance committee turned to House Bill 280, the “highly digitized tax” measure, which amends the Multistate Tax Compact to adopt market-based sourcing and shifts highly digitized businesses to single-factor apportionment for corporate taxes. Staffer Brody Anderson recapped: the bill targets online firms selling to Alaskans without physical presence, with a retroactive clause to January 1, 2026. Recent testimony from industries like motion pictures, banking, and telecom prompted amendment suggestions mirroring a vetoed prior bill.
Anderson walked through the fiscal note: $321,700 initial operating costs, dropping to $313,700 annually, funding two new auditors (Tax Auditor IV and II) for enforcement. While no revenue shown upfront, internal estimates project $25-65 million yearly gains, midpoint $30 million. Department of Revenue (DOR) officials Brandon Spanos and Michael Williams fielded queries remotely from Anchorage.
Implementation timing sparked questions. A member inquired on notifying taxpayers for 2026 filings due in 2027; Spanos affirmed hiring post-enactment in FY 2027, with outreach via existing staff. On vacancies, he reported none in corporate tax but some in other groups, noting a 30% division shrinkage over a decade from legislative and executive cuts.
Rep. Will Stapp (R – Fairbanks) followed up: “You said you had a big downsizing in auditor positions. Was there a specific reason for that?” Spanos attributed it to defunding, including four positions cut last year by the Senate Finance Subcommittee.
Rep. Jeremy Bynum (R – Ketchikan) explored shifting the effective date to January 1, 2027, to avoid retroactivity. Spanos clarified no system overhaul needed, as factors are built-in, confirming “no fiscal impact by moving the effective date.” Co-Chair Andy Josephson (D – Anchorage) requested formal documentation on auditor cuts, recalling a veto override on oil/gas auditors; Spanos committed to emailing details, citing Walker-era executive cuts and recent legislative ones.
No further questions arose; the bill was set aside for DOR analysis of industry amendments at the next meeting. Decisions: March 2 amendment deadline, with submissions to staff. Action items: DOR’s amendment review, auditor history email, and taxpayer outreach plan. Unresolved: retroactivity policy, amendment scopes, and precise cut attributions.
The bill echoes a 2025 vetoed measure expanding taxes on digitized firms to fund education, amid ongoing fiscal debates. Supporters see revenue potential; critics eye administrative burdens.
Alaska House Resources Committee voted to advance House Bill 271, a measure that would permanently reduce the royalty rate to 3% for natural gas production in the Kitchen Lights unit of Cook Inlet. Sponsored by Rep. Zach Fields (D- Anchorage), the bill aims to incentivize further investment and production in the aging basin, which supplies much of Southcentral Alaska’s energy needs. Critics, however, decried it as a targeted giveaway to a single operator, HEX/Furie, amid the state’s ongoing fiscal woes.
After a brief recess, public testimony opened, revealing sharp divisions.
Jeff Landfield, operator of the Alaska Landmine news website, delivered a scathing critique, framing the bill as the latest in a series of “political handouts” to HEX/Furie owner John Hendrix. Landfield recounted Hendrix’s acquisition of Furie out of bankruptcy in 2019 for $15 million, partly financed by a state loan, and his subsequent battles over property taxes. He noted that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) had already granted a 75% royalty reduction in September 2024, resulting in a $2 million credit and slashing monthly payments from $400,000 to $100,000. “The royalty relief he’s already obtained does nothing for ratepayers, it just enriches his pockets,” Landfield said. “I urge this committee to put this bill where it belongs: in the trash.”
Carrie Harris, testifying online, echoed the opposition, arguing that the bill creates a “permanent three percent royalty carve out for a single operator” without geological justification. “Alaskans are being told there isn’t enough money for a permanent fund. Essential services are strained,” she said, warning of a “really big bad precedent” that could prompt other producers to seek similar deals.
With public comment closed, the committee deliberated on three amendments. Rep. Donna Mears (D – Anchorage) moved Amendment G.1, proposing a sunset date of January 1, 2030, to limit the relief while allowing time for the operator to refine plans through DNR processes. “I fundamentally believe that this work should be done through DNR’s thorough process rather than legislative action,” Mears explained. Fields opposed, arguing four years was insufficient to attract major investments like jack-up rigs, suggesting 2035 instead. Rep. Dan Saddler (R – Eagle River) called the shorter timeline “counterproductive,” potentially harming financing. The amendment failed 2-7.
Mears’s second amendment, G.2, sought to remove intent language justifying the bill’s focus on one unit, citing drafting guidelines. Fields defended it as essential to address constitutional concerns over special legislation, emphasizing the unit’s role in boosting competition and supply. Rep. Mike Prax (R – North Pole) supported removal, viewing the bill as “special treatment for a particular company.” It also failed 2-7.
A conceptual amendment from Sadler, changing “avoid reliance on imported fuels” to “reduce reliance” for realism, passed without objection.
Debate intensified on the bill’s merits. Mears opposed, trusting DNR’s existing robust process. Prax argued it overreaches legislative expertise, setting a bad precedent by overriding DNR. Saddler countered that statutes provide enduring certainty executive actions cannot: “What the executive giveth, the executive can taketh away. Uncertainty is the enemy of fiscal certainty.” Fields clarified, “This bill definitely does not override what DNR did. It actually takes DNR’s decision and gives us some multi-year predictability and stability to encourage investment and production.”
Rep. Julie Coulombe (R – Anchorage) supported, noting it endorses DNR’s research showing relief yields more gas: “This is not overriding DNR. This is actually supporting what DNR did.” Mears reiterated that DNR relief is a durable contract across administrations.
Co-Chair Maxine Dibert (D – Fairbanks) moved the amended bill, granting Legislative Legal leeway for technical changes. After objection, a roll call passed it 7-2, with Mears and Prax dissenting.
The bill now heads to further committees amid broader debates on Cook Inlet’s declining output and high gas prices. Supporters see it bolstering supply; opponents fear favoritism eroding state revenues.
Saddler, in a key remark during debate, underscored the pragmatic stakes: “We’d rather have fifty percent of loaf or one hundred percent of no loaf at all, and that’s the situation we are faced up against. My constituents do have a need for natural gas in the inlet.”
This decision comes as Alaska grapples with energy security, with Hilcorp’s production update slated for February 25. Critics like Landfield vow continued scrutiny, alleging Hendricks’s influence. Proponents argue it’s vital for competition in a basin not “what it was.”
Editors Note: Corrected spelling of John Hendrix and HEX/Furie.
In a landmark ruling last summer (Mahmoud v Taylor), the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that parents must be informed of classroom instruction involving certain gender and sexually explicit subject matter; and moreover, must be afforded an opportunity to “opt out” of such programs.
A Massachusetts court recently affirmed in Alan L. v. Lexington Public Schools that no public school can force a parent to choose between giving up the benefit of a public education and exposing their child to material that burdens the parent’s right to the free exercise of religion.
Last week, in what is widely viewed as a wake-up call over municipal liability for non-compliance, the Montgomery County, Maryland Board of Education agreed to pay a $1.5 million award to families whose religious rights were violated when their opt-out opportunity was denied to them. The case affirms that school districts nationwide have financial liability for failing to protect the constitutional rights of parents whose children attend public school.
Notably, the Maryland board was directed to issue advance notice to parents before introducing certain sexuality explicit materials.
Here in Alaska, some believe our state courts have misconstrued privacy protections to the degree that Alaska legal precedent undermines the rights of parents.
Jim Minnery, Director at the Alaska Family Council, observes:
Our homes and places of worship are being invaded and undermined by our public schools…In spite of the law, Schools nationwide are still teaching kids a view of sexuality that undermines parental rights and traditional views on sexuality by faith leaders.
Today, Alaska caselaw with respect to parental consent appears increasingly out-of-sync with Federal law and with public opinion. Historically, Alaska’s legislature has avoided statutory reforms that would strengthen parental rights.
Increasingly, these conflicts center on our public schools. Senate Bill 90, sponsored by Senator Cathy Giessel, is the latest example of what Minnery describes as a “dangerous overreach that undermines the fundamental rights of parents to guide their children’s healthcare decisions.”
According to Minnery, Alaska Senate Bill 90 claims to help teens access needed mental health services, but instead “creates a system where minors can receive ongoing treatment behind their parents’ backs—with potentially devastating consequences.”
“SB 90 gets [the goal] exactly backward”, states Minnery. “Instead of supporting families, it enables providers to exclude them. Instead of protecting children, it exposes them to potentially harmful decisions made without the guidance of those who know and love them best…Alaska’s parents have both a constitutional right and a moral responsibility to direct their children’s healthcare.”
In Alaska, outreach is underway. In a press release, the Alliance Defending Freedom seeks to connect with Alaskans concerned about transparency and compliance in our public schools. The release stated:
“Alliance Defending Freedom’s Center for Parental Rights seeks to identify public-school parents who are struggling to access curriculum and public schools that refuse to honor parents’ requests to opt their children out of the curriculum and programs that undermine their rights as parents. We want to help parents access curriculum, request notice, and make informed choices about what their children are taught and exposed to during the school day.”
Letters are being sent to District Superintendents across Alaska reminding them of their duty to enforce the law, and that failure to enforce the law is not “neutral”. Rural Alaskan tribes, elders and councils especially are being encouraged to understand the rights of parents seeking to retain traditional family structures within their communities and places of public learning.
