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
In the interest of neutrality and timely release, Must Read Alaska has elected to re-print Treg Taylor’s announcement of his candidacy for Governor in full, which follows:
Today, conservative fighter and Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor officially announced his candidacy for Governor of Alaska.
“I’ve fought crime. I’ve fought Biden. And I’ll fight for Alaska.”
Treg Taylor
“I’ve fought crime. I’ve fought Biden. And I’ll fight for Alaska,” said Taylor. “The career politicians in Juneau have lost their way. With costs soaring, dividend checks shrinking, and good jobs harder to find, too many Alaskans struggle just to get by. It’s time to write a new chapter for the Last Frontier. We need a fearless conservative who’s been in the arena — and can win for Alaska.”
As Alaska’s Attorney General, Taylor has gone toe-to-toe with career politicians in Juneau, confronted the radicals in Anchorage, and stood up to extreme environmentalists. He fought Biden’s land grabs, vaccine mandates, and attacks on our energy jobs — and won for Alaskans. He held Big Pharma accountable, delivering $100 million for addiction recovery, defended parental rights in education, and has always stood firm in defense of the Second Amendment and the freedoms that make Alaska great. Under Attorney General Taylor, crime has dropped to a 40-year low.
Treg Taylor’s story is Alaska’s story. Raised by a single mom — Treg learned early what it takes to survive and succeed: determination and the strength to stand your ground. He learned you don’t wait for someone else to solve your problems. You step up, you fight, and you protect what matters.
“I’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with President Trump to unleash Alaskan energy and protect our way of life,” Taylor said. “I’ve taken on anyone — Republican or Democrat — who put politics ahead of Alaskans. I’m ready to take that fight to the governor’s office.”
Treg Taylor was appointed Attorney General of Alaska in 2021 after serving as Deputy Attorney General in charge of the civil division. He began his legal career in Alaska, built a successful career as a litigator, and served in key roles in both the public and private sectors. Taylor and his wife, Jodi, live in Anchorage where they raised their six kids as proud fourth-generation Alaskans.
Please view Treg Taylor’s official announcement video below:
I was extremely saddened when I heard that Charlie Kirk had been assassinated. He, like I, feel we have to stand up for what we believe. Sadly, Charlie lost his life doing just that. As a young man from a political family, I have been involved in political efforts most of my adult life. I especially admired Charlie Kirk and his devotion to what he believed. He didn’t just talk about his beliefs; he stood up for them.
I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and I’m a proud volunteer with Repeal Now AK, a nonpartisan organization made up of Alaskans from all political backgrounds who are united in a common cause: to oppose ranked-choice voting (RCV) and restore traditional voting in our state.
As part of this grassroots movement, I’ve been collecting signatures from registered voters to place a repeal measure on the 2026 ballot. While working on this campaign, I, and other volunteers have experienced harassment, intimidation, and even physical assault from opponents of the repeal effort—just for exercising our right to collect signatures and advocate for change. It is disgraceful that anyone would respond to peaceful civic engagement with threats and violence. I condemn these acts in the strongest terms.
An example of what damage rank choice voting can do is the city of Minneapolis. They adopted ranked-choice voting in 2009 and first used it in their 2013 municipal elections. That year, there were 35 candidates for mayor on the ballot. The election required 33 rounds of vote counting and redistribution, which took weeks before a winner—Betsy Hodges—was declared. Even then, she was elected without receiving a majority of the vote.
Many voters were confused by the complex system. Ballots were discarded due to errors, and others were “exhausted”—meaning votes were thrown out after several rounds because no remaining candidates were ranked. Voters found themselves forced to rank people they didn’t know, support, or agree with politically. Since then, Minneapolis has consistently had some of the lowest voter turnout rates in its municipal elections.
We’ve seen similar problems here in Alaska since adopting RCV: voter confusion, high costs, and a general sense of frustration. This experiment has not worked. It’s expensive—costing millions of dollars—and with our state already facing financial strain, continuing this system risks further economic damage.
We are simply citizens standing up for a fair, understandable, and affordable voting system, just like Charlie Kirk. We ask opponents to listen, consider the consequences, and do what’s right for the people of Alaska.
Wyatt Young Nelson was born in Anchorage but lived in Nome until moving back to Anchorage where he graduated from Bartlett High School and then attended the ACE/ACT program. He was named after the famous Wyatt Earp and his middle name Young is from his grandfather the late Congressman Don Young. He has been involved in both efforts to repeal ranked-choice voting.
Gov. Dunleavy responds to Alaska Legislative Council’s allocation of $100,000 to fund a lawsuit challenging his Executive Order to establish a Department of Agriculture.
In a letter dated September 15, 2025, addressed to Senate President Gary Stevens and House Speaker Bryce Edgmon, Dunleavy outlined his stance, on why he declined to withdraw the executive order to establish a Department of Agriculture emphasizing the lack of clear constitutional restrictions on his authority.
The letter states that on August 2, 2025—the first day of the First Special Session of the 34th Legislature—Dunleavy transmitted the executive order to elevate the Division of Agriculture, currently within the Department of Natural Resources, into a cabinet-level agency. He noted that the legislature failed to disapprove the order, and on August 18, 2025, Stevens and Edgmon requested its voluntary withdrawal, arguing it had been previously rejected and that the constitution does not permit executive orders during special sessions.
Dunleavy responded, “I declined to withdraw the Order because it is not clear to me that the Alaska Constitution limits the time when a governor may issue an Executive Order pursuant to Article III, Section 23.”
He further contends that the constitution does not explicitly grant the legislature authority to disapprove an executive order in any manner beyond the process outlined in Section 23, which requires a joint session vote. Since no such vote occurred during the special session, Dunleavy maintained that the order remains valid.
The governor acknowledged the dispute, stating, “There clearly exists a disagreement between the Executive and Legislative branch as to the governor’s ability to introduce an Executive Order in a special session.” He added, “When such a dispute exists, it is appropriate to seek clarification from the courts. Because the legislature has now chosen to expend limited fiscal resources on outside counsel and pursue litigation, I can only surmise that the legislature shares my view of the importance of having the court provide clarification regarding this constitutional question. I welcome that clarification for the benefit of future governors and legislatures.”
This response follows the Alaska Legislative Council’s September 10, 2025, 9-2 vote to allocate up to $100,000 in taxpayer funds for a lawsuit challenging the order, with Reps. Chuck Kopp (R-Anchorage) and Mike Prax (R-North Pole) dissenting. The order, first issued on December 20, 2024, and rejected 32-28 in March 2025 over cost concerns, was reintroduced during the August special session focused on education funding, prompting the current legal challenge.
The lawsuit, likely to involve Anchorage-based firm Stoel Rives, aims to determine if legislative inaction equates to approval. Prax has argued the legal basis is weak, advocating for dialogue over litigation, aligning with Dunleavy’s reference to constitutional ambiguity.
Brenda Josephson is a board member of Alaska Gold Communications, Inc., the publisher of Must Read Alaska. You can contact her via email at [email protected].
Throughout the history of the United States there have been moments of national loss that remind us of the values that bind us together as Americans. Today, I write this as not only your governor, but as a citizen of our great country who is mourning the passing of Charlie Kirk. He was a son, husband, and father of two small children whose life was cut short by an act of senseless violence. Yet his courage and the life he lived must call each of us to a higher standard of civic responsibility.
Charlie was a fierce defender of the First Amendment. Free speech was not an abstract principle to him, but a lived commitment. He understood that the right to speak freely, to debate, and to disagree without fear is not merely one freedom among many. It is the cornerstone on which our country was built, the very framework that allows every other freedom to exist. This God-given right and the others detailed in the Constitution separates America from the rest of the world. Tragically, Charlie paid the ultimate price reminding us of its importance.
From a very young age, Charlie recognized that we all have the responsibility to engage in civil dialogue. He did not choose safe ground or sympathetic audiences. Instead, he visited college campuses where he knew his ideas would be challenged, sometimes shouted down. He believed that truth must be spoken in every place, not just the comfortable ones, inviting those who disagreed with him to the front of the line so that he could give them an opportunity to disagree with him.
Kirk had an uncommon courage, rooted not in anger or resentment, but in principle. He willingly entered the arena of ideas even when hostility was certain because he believed in America’s founding ideals with a conviction that could not be shaken. He believed that our Constitution was not a relic to be ignored, but a living guarantee that ensures every voice, every faith, and every idea has the right to be heard. He demonstrated courage not by shouting people down but by his refusal to be silent when silence would have been easier.
Charlie believed that rational debate was not something to be feared but embraced. For Alaska, and for America, spreading this message could not come at a more critical time. Too often, we see neighbors treating each as enemies and the public square has been replaced with online shouting matches that solve nothing.
You couldn’t watch Charlie’s approach to a conversation without recognizing that it was special. He challenged people with grace to think critically about their beliefs. He often silenced his own supporters when they were being rude to a person with an opposing point of view. He was a model example of how to live his faith as a Christian, while fighting for the truth in the world.
Charlie never pretended that all Americans would agree about everything. Instead, he showed us that differences can be confronted with kindness, honesty, and civility. By his approach, he left behind a challenge to all of us: if you believe in something, speak it. If you disagree, do so with respect. And never allow fear of criticism or retaliation to keep you from standing firm in your convictions.
We must commit ourselves, as Alaskans and as Americans, to this same principle. The First Amendment is not a partisan value. It does not belong to one party or one ideology. It belongs to every citizen, whether conservative, liberal, or independent. It belongs to every faith and every background. When one voice is silenced, all voices are threatened.
As governor, I pledge to do everything I can to protect the First Amendment in Alaska. Whether in our schools, our universities, or our community halls, free speech must not only be protected but encouraged. We will not shy away from difficult conversations, and we will not silence those we disagree with. We will show America that dialogue is possible, even in disagreement, and that civility is not weakness but strength.
To honor Charlie, let us not simply mourn his loss, but also rise to the standard he set. Let us reject the temptation to retreat into silence or tribalism. We must recommit ourselves to protecting the First Amendment. We must teach our children that disagreement is not dangerous and that they should have the courage to face opposing points of view with conviction and grace.
Charlie Kirk’s time with us was too short, but his example will endure. May we in Alaska, and across this nation, live up to his example. May we guard the First Amendment with the same boldness that he carried into every room. Let’s honor Charlie Kirk by promoting what we all should believe that America is at its best when we are free to speak, debate, and seek truth together.
An Anchorage landlord has filed a complaint with the Alaska State Ombudsman, raising serious concerns about the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation’s (AHFC) Housing Voucher Program.
The landlord’s issues include frequent overpayments made to landlords, insufficient recovery processes for these overpayments, and AHFC’s alleged noncompliance with the Alaska Landlord Tenant Act (ALTA).
In correspondence with the Ombudsman’s office, the landlord reported that all three of their AHFC tenants had issues with overpayments, leading to a loss of $10,068 in public funds in one instance. The landlord alleges that with over 4,000 tenants in AHFC’s program, such errors may suggest systemic problems, could potentially cost the agency hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars in losses.
The complaint further contends that AHFC’s methods for recovering overpayments—often agency errors—can leave unrecoverable losses of public funds, especially if they were unaware of the overpayments. Additionally, they claim AHFC does not follow ALTA’s notification requirements, such as providing a full calendar month’s written notice for significant changes like rent adjustments or termination of assistance.
While AHFC asserts that it is not obligated to follow ALTA since it is not referenced in the landlord-tenant rental agreement. The landlord disputes this claim, emphasizing that AHFC’s 12-page contract with landlords and tenants plays a crucial role in the rental process.
In response, the intake assistant from the Ombudsman’s office requested additional documentation, specifically the landlord’s Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract, to facilitate further investigation.
The Ombudsman’s office noted that it typically does not investigate systemic issues unless multiple complaints are received. The landlord expressed frustration and suggested that others might hesitate to file complaints against a large state agency. They also inquired about which government entity could investigate if they choose not to pursue the matter.
The complaint requests an audit of the accounting practices of AHFC’s Housing Voucher Program, a review of its compliance with ALTA, and a resolution. The Ombudsman’s office has kept the complaint open while awaiting additional documentation.
For more information on filing complaints with the Alaska State Ombudsman, contact (907) 269-5290 or (907) 465-4970 or email [email protected].
Brenda Josephson is a board member of Alaska Gold Communications, Inc., the publisher of Must Read Alaska. You can contact her via email at [email protected].
The Alaska Legislative Council voted 9-2 on September 10th to allocate up to $100,000 to fund a lawsuit challenging Governor Mike Dunleavy’s executive order to establish Department of Agriculture.
Rep. Chuck Kopp (R-Anchorage) and Rep. Mike Prax (R-North Pole) were the only members of the council to oppose the lawsuit, with Prax arguing that the legal basis for it is weak and advocating dialogue with the governor instead of pursuing litigation.
The controversy began on December 20, 2024, when Dunleavy announced executive order 136 to elevate the Division of Agriculture—currently within the Department of Natural Resources—into a cabinet-level agency to bolster Alaska’s food security. The order, would have moved current staff and budgets to the new agency starting July 1, 2025.
In March 2025, lawmakers voted 32-28 to reject the order, citing concerns over costs and a lack of legislative input.
Dunleavy reintroduced the order during an August 2025 special session, prompting objections from legislative leaders. In a letter dated August 29, 2025, Senate President Gary Stevens and House Speaker Bryce Edgmon argued that it was a violation of constitutional rules to resubmit a rejected order, especially in a special session focused on education funding.
The governor’s office has not directly addressed the letter, stating only on September 10, “The governor’s position remains unchanged.”
The council’s vote authorizes hiring legal counsel, with Stoel Rives, a firm with an Anchorage office, as the likely choice, pending contract approval. The lawsuit aims to clarify whether Dunleavy can implement the order by treating legislative inaction as approval.
Rep. Prax, one of the dissenters, opposed the lawsuit based on his interpretation of Alaska’s Constitution: A Citizen’s Guide, which he shared with council members in a memo. Citing Article III, Section 23, Prax emphasized the provision’s “plain language,” which states that the legislature has 60 days during a regular session or the entirety of a shorter special session to disapprove an executive order.
Prax contended that the lawsuit’s premise—that reintroducing a rejected executive order in a special session is unconstitutional—is on “shaky ground.” His argument is that the constitution addresses special sessions differently, permitting disapproval only within the 30-day duration and scope of that session.
The August special session focused on education, which leads Prax to believe that the governor’s reintroduction does not violate the constitution; it does not explicitly prohibit resubmission across different types of sessions. The guide shows that this rule, based on the federal Reorganization Act of 1932, generally benefits the governor by making it easier to reorganize without needing a complete legislative bill.
When reached for comment, Rep. Prax emphasized a collaborative approach, stating, “It would be much better if we worked this issue out by talking to the governor and not in a court suit.” He expressed concern that litigation escalates tensions unnecessarily when negotiations could resolve the dispute, aligning with his view that the constitutional ambiguity might not favor the legislature’s case.
Rep. Kopp, the other dissenter, argued that the administration appeared to have paused its push for the department outside legislative channels, suggesting the lawsuit could be premature.
Alaska, one of only two states without a dedicated agriculture department, has two stalled legislative bills to create one through standard processes.
Brenda Josephson is a board member of Alaska Gold Communications, Inc., the publisher of Must Read Alaska. You can contact her via email at [email protected].
The University of Alaska (UA) Board of Regents has proposed revisions to Regents’ Policy 04.02, which would eliminate affirmative action language to align with federal mandates and emphasize merit-based hiring. The board introduced these changes during its meeting in Juneau on September 5-6. The revisions aim to ensure fairness and compliance while securing access to essential federal funding.
The current Regents’ Policy 04.02 commits the university to equal employment opportunity and outlines an affirmative action program designed to recruit and promote “protected classes.” It mandates that major administrative units develop their own affirmative action programs and appoint affirmative action officers to oversee and monitor progress.
The proposed amendments would eliminate these provisions and introduce a clear focus on “merit-based advancement opportunities” and “equal opportunities and access in employment to all individuals, free from any unlawful discrimination based on legally protected status.” The role of “affirmative action officer” would be changed to “human resources officer,” indicating a move toward more streamlined and impartial hiring practices.
This move is in response to a January 2025 executive order from President Donald Trump, which rescinded Executive Order 11246, a 1965 mandate that required federal contractors to implement affirmative action programs. By aligning with Trump’s federal directive, UA seeks to protect millions in federal grants that are essential to its operations.
In a news release, the university claims that the elimination of affirmative action language will not change its practices. The release states, “As a practical matter, if adopted by the board in November, the policy updates will not result in changes to UA’s current hiring or admission practices, which remain consistent with long-standing federal guidance barring discrimination.”
This development builds on other changes in 2025 that updated university practices. In February, the board voted to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) terminology from websites, publications, and job titles, a move that clarified UA’s commitment to fairness and compliance with federal expectations.
In June, further updates eliminated references to “affirmative action” in favor of language that emphasizes equal access and merit. These modifications, reviewed alongside updates to public records policies during the September meeting, demonstrate an effort to keep UA competitive and financially secure.
The proposed revisions, presented as a first reading, are scheduled for a final vote in November. University officials emphasize that these updates will safeguard UA against potential funding losses while strengthening a hiring process that prioritizes qualifications over quotas. This approach reflects a broader national trend toward policies that emphasize individual merit, ensuring fairness and opportunity.
For more details on the policy revisions and board activities, visit alaska.edu/bor.
Brenda Josephson is a board member of Alaska Gold Communications, Inc., the publisher of Must Read Alaska. You can contact her via email at [email protected].
Community members filled the Palmer Church on the Rock for a vigil honoring Charlie Kirk, the late founder of Turning Point USA and a notable conservative activist. The event, organized by the Republican Party and local pastors with considerable assistance from Rep. Cathy Tilton, emphasized Kirk’s significant impact on faith, truth, and civic engagement.
The vigil, which took place without music or food, filled the church’s sanctuary to capacity, leaving only standing room available. Overflow attendees gathered in the lobby and outside to pay their respects. The evening fostered a spirit of unity and introspection, as attendees prayed for strength, protection, and the ongoing faith revival that Kirk passionately advocated.
Palmer Church of the Rock Lobby during the vigil
Local pastors, Vic Fonov, Josh O’Donnell, Joelle Sanchez, and Patrick Napier delivered heartfelt remarks that emphasized Kirk’s dedication to sharing his faith and promoting conservative values.
Several legislators were present, including Reps. Rauscher, McCabe, Tilton, Underwood, and Johnson, along with Sen. Shower and Mat-Su assembly member Dimitri Fonov. Alaska Republican Party Chair Carmela Warfield addressed the crowd, sharing messages of hope and resilience.
Alaska governor candidate Adam Crum captured the significance of the event by stating, “The overwhelming support that showed up clearly demonstrates that Charlie Kirk’s impact cannot be overstated. Almost 1,000 people came together to pray for strength, protection, and the ongoing faith revival across our nation. In this way, we honor Charlie, who devoted his life to spreading the Gospel and truth.”
Josh Hanson, Vice Chair of ARP District 25, shared his thoughts: “It was good to see the community come together in the face of online criticism to honor Charlie Kirk, a person of deep faith and conviction, who made significant contributions to the conservative movement. I hope Charlie’s life inspires us as Christians and especially members of the Alaska Republican Party to boldly and courageously stand for the truth and our values.”
Senator Shelley Hughes, who was unable to attend due to her travels in Israel, sent her campaign coordinator to represent her at the vigil. In a statement shared on Facebook, Hughes expressed her condolences, stating, “My heart goes out to his dear wife and sweet children for this unjustified tragedy. I hope that, as his legacy, we can follow the path he modeled, emphasizing civil discourse and critical thinking skills, regardless of where individuals fall on the political spectrum.”
Pastor Josh O’Donnell offered words of consolation and encouragement, stating, “Evil didn’t win this week. While we grieve the heartbreaking loss of one of the most faithful, courageous, and brilliant Christians we’ve ever had the privilege to witness in this generation… Evil didn’t win. This hateful act may seem like a victory for darkness, but we already see it sparking a fire within countless others, inspiring them to rise up tenfold in his passion for Jesus and this nation.”
The vigil, largely organized through the dedicated efforts of Rep. Cathy Tilton, served as a poignant reminder of Kirk’s significant influence. Alaskans came together, filling every available space, to mourn his loss and commit to advancing his mission of promoting truth and unity.
Brenda Josephson is a board member of Alaska Gold Communications, Inc., the publisher of Must Read Alaska. You can contact her via email at [email protected].
It has taken me a couple of days to gather my thoughts on the assassination of Charlie Kirk. After giving it some consideration, I believe that the radical left will very much regret this man’s death.
In the immediate aftermath of his assassination, a few left-wing ghouls expressed joy that Mr. Kirk had died. The leftist blogosphere had some insane commentary, some blaming Charlie for his own murder, some inexplicably blaming President Trump, saying that the president’s previous comments amounted to a threat that forced a violent left-wing response. Only an individual possessed by evil can take joy in another man’s assassination, and by blaming conservatives for the acts of violence committed against them, the leftists are making twists of logic that only a Democrat could understand.
However, Charlie Kirk’s death may become an inflection point in history that will not stop his message; it will work to make the ideas he supported more powerful than ever. Two historical examples illustrate why.
The first example is from the book of Acts in the Bible. Stephen, who is an Apostle of Jesus in the early church, is described as having wisdom and an ability to speak so compellingly that his opponents couldn’t win an argument against him. Stephen sounds a lot like Charlie Kirk. Stephen was considered a threat and was condemned to death by stoning. Stephen is considered the very first Christian martyred for his faith. As he was about to die, Stephen prayed for forgiveness for his executioners.
One man present at his execution was Saul, who was a Pharisee and an avid persecutor of Christians. Soon after the execution, Saul left for Damascus, where he encountered Jesus on the road and underwent a profound transformation in his beliefs, changing his name from Saul to Paul. He became one of the most important members of the church and a man who spread Christianity throughout much of the known world. We would not have a Christian church today were it not for Paul. Who knows how witnessing Stephen’s execution affected him? Perhaps Stephen’s death was God’s plan in action, and perhaps Charlie’s death is also part of God’s plan, in ways that we cannot comprehend right now.
There is also the example of Abraham Lincoln after the Civil War. Before he was assassinated, Lincoln had proposed a generous and non-punitive plan to return the former Confederate states speedily to the United States. His magnanimity demonstrates that when a celebration was held at the end of the war, Lincoln asked the band to play the southern anthem, Dixie, to honor the southern troops that had fought so gallantly.
However, it was not to be. Four days later, Southern sympathizer John Wilkes Booth assassinated Lincoln, and the path of Reconstruction changed radically. The American public was outraged and angered at the South for this act of betrayal. They demanded collective accountability for all southern states because of the act of one lone assassin. The new president, Andrew Johnson, decided that the South should be punished for seceding from the Union and famously remarked that, “Treason is a crime and must be…made infamous, and traitors must be impoverished.” He accomplished all of that and more. The South was occupied by Union troops for over a decade and endured much more onerous terms than they would have received had Lincoln lived.
Charlie Kirk’s death may inspire something similar to these two historical examples. Some on the left may not want to be associated with radicals willing to kill their political opponents and may turn away from them like Saul did. Or perhaps, like in Lincoln’s example, the resolve of the country may harden against the political left. Maybe the public will demand justice and accountability, and reject any politician sympathetic to their radical leftist agenda. It might become unfashionable to support the delusional woke ideas the left has been feeding us.
Kirk’s assassination may accomplish just the opposite of what his murderer intended. Instead of stopping him, maybe his death will hasten the spread of Kirk’s ideas. They would have been far better off by listening to what Charlie had to say instead of killing him.
Greg Sarber is a lifelong Alaskan. He is a petroleum engineer who spent his career working on Alaska’s North Slope. Now retired, he lives with his family in Homer, Alaska. Greg serves as a board member of Alaska Gold Communications, Inc., the publisher of Must Read Alaska.
