🌎 From Frozen Quakes to Global Stakes: Sunday News Digest – November 9, 2025

Mary Louise Rasmuson began her military career as a private during World War II and eventually became director of the Women’s Army Corps, after which she moved to Anchorage and helped steer more than $200 million in grants for Alaska’s nonprofits over 45 years. 

Alaska honors women veterans, U.S. government shutdown ripples nationwide, and COP30 faces its toughest test yet.

By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | November 2025

🇦🇽 Alaska & Regional Highlights

1. Women Veterans Day

In Alaska, Governor Mike Dunleavy officially proclaimed November 9, 2025 as Women Veterans Day, honouring women who have served in the U.S. military and the legacy of Col. Mary Louise Rasmuson, who led the Women’s Army Corps from 1942‑62. Mike Dunleavy
Why it matters: It’s an explicit recognition of women’s service in Alaska, and a good reminder of the role of military service in the state.

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2. Earthquake Activity

• A magnitude 4.8 quake struck ~118 miles SE of Atka, Alaska in the Aleutians at 12:36am AKST. USGS
• A magnitude 3.8 quake struck ~40 miles SE of Amukta Pass in the Alaska Peninsula region at 5:29am AKST November 9. earthquake.alaska.edu
• A smaller magnitude 0.9 quake hit 22 miles SE of Sutton, Alaska (near the Mat‑Su/Anchorage region) at 07:03 AKST. earthquake.alaska.edu
  Takeaway: Seismic activity remains routine in Alaska. Good to monitor but not unusual by Alaska standards.

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3. Travel Disruptions for Alaska Access

Alaska Airlines reports cancelling roughly 36‑40 flights per day through Sunday due to a federal directive tied to Air Traffic Control staff shortages amid the U.S. government shutdown. Airline Partners
Implication: For travelers in or out of Alaska, expect possible disruptions, especially important given Alaska’s reliance on air travel for connectivity.

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🇺🇸 U.S. National News

1. Longest‑Ever Federal Government Shutdown

The United States Senate convened on Sunday in a rare session to try to resolve the ongoing government shutdown, now entering its 40th day. CBS News+2Native News Online+2
Key impacts:

• More than 1,100 flights cancelled across the U.S. Sunday as Federal Aviation Administration mandates cutbacks due to air traffic controller shortages. CBS News+1
• Non‑essential federal workers remain unpaid, SNAP food‑aid disruption continues.
  Why you should care: Even remote places (like Alaska) feel ripple effects: travel disruptions, economic stress, and service impacts.

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2. Cyber‑crime Vulnerability Rankings

A new study identified Alaska as the most vulnerable U.S. state to cybercrime; Indiana came in second. 95.3 MNC
Takeaway: With increased digital reliance, this highlights the need for heightened cyber‑security awareness in Alaska and beyond. Change passwords often.

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🌍 World News

1. Hostage Remains Returned in Gaza Conflict

Israel received the remains of a deceased hostage via the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza. The body is believed to be that of Hadar Goldin, killed in the 2014 war with Hamas. Reuters
Significance: A small step forward in ongoing hostage/detainee exchanges amidst a protracted conflict, underscores the human cost and complexity of peace processes.

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2. COP30 Climate Summit in Focus

The international climate summit COP30, held in Belém, Brazil, is facing headwinds: political divisions, insufficient emission targets, and fossil‑fuel producing nation resistance. The Guardian
Why it matters: The decisions made here will have direct implications for global climate policy, including Alaska’s own Arctic and environmental vulnerabilities.

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🎬 Entertainment & Culture

1. 🎉 Today’s Birthday Stars

Today marks birthdays for entertainment figures such as Ryan Murphy and Cory Hardrict. UPI

Ryan Murphy – Born November 9, 1965, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Wikipedia+2Encyclopedia Britannica+2 He is 59 years old as of 2025. Encyclopedia Britannica+2Wikipedia+2 

Renowned as a television producer, director and writer, he created shows such as Glee and American Horror Story and the Monster anthology. Encyclopedia Britannica+1

Cory Hardrict – Born November 9, 1979, in Chicago, Illinois. Wikipedia+2S.W.A.T. Wiki+2 He is 45 years oldtoday. S.W.A.T. Wiki+1 He is an actor and producer known for film and TV roles since the late 1990s. 

2.  🎵 Community Music Event in Fairbanks

The University of Alaska Fairbanks Department of Music is holding a special event today for the dedication of the memorial organ honoring Professor David Stech. The recital by organist Stephen Price happens Sunday, November 9, 2025 at 4 p.m. in the Davis Concert Hall. University of Alaska Fairbanks

Why it’s nice: It’s a cultural boost in Fairbanks, offering something to look forward to amid heavier news, a chance to support local arts and maybe attend or follow along.

Tip if you’re nearby or interested: Plan to arrive early as such recitals often fill seats, bring a quiet spirit (as it’s an organ recital), and consider staying after for a chance to chat with department members or students.

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✅ Quick Takeaways

• Alaska: Recognizing women veterans; seismic activity remains low‑key; travel disruptions continue.
• U.S.: Shutdown drags on, major service and travel impacts; cyber‑security concerns rising.
• World: Hostage‑remains exchange in Gaza; climate summit under pressure.
• Culture: Light reads today–celebrity birthdays and Sunday puzzles.