⚡ Alaska Today: Sky-High Gas, Free Tampons, and Homer’s King Salmon Showdown

Last year’s Winter King champion Zach Weimann with the winning catch from the Homer Winter King Salmon Tournament. Anglers return to Kachemak Bay on March 28 chasing the next prize-winning king. Read on to see how to register. Photo: Homer Winter King Salmon Tournament

Global shocks, local triumphs, and Alaskan ingenuity all in one digest. Soaring fuel costs, groundbreaking social change, and Anchorage’s Madison Thompson chasing the state spelling crown are just a few of the stories making waves in Alaska today.

By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | March 19, 2026

Fuel Pain Hits Alaskans’ Wallets

Gas prices at Carrs in Anchorage on March 17, 2026: Unleaded $4.09, Plus $4.49, Premium $4.79, Diesel $5.25, up about 29 cents from last week. Photo courtesy of Chris Lyn, Anchorage, AK ©

Gas prices are climbing fast, and Alaskans are paying the price for every mile they drive. Rising fuel costs linked to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran have pushed Alaska gasoline to an average of $4.43 per gallon for regular fuel, according to AAA’s latest state data.

The price surge impacts commutes, heating, and groceries, particularly in small towns and the Bush, where deliveries rely on trucks, barges, or planes. Analysts warn that ongoing global energy volatility could keep prices elevated for months, forcing many families to tighten budgets, consolidate trips, or explore alternative heating and transportation options.

For the latest local prices, check AAA’s Alaska page: gasprices.aaa.com

Period Products: Scotland makes History, Alaska Takes Notice

A basic necessity should not come with a price tag. Period products are essential for women. Photo: kaboompics.com | Alaska Headline Living ©

Scotland is blazing a trail, becoming the first country in the world to make tampons, pads, and other menstrual products freely available by law for anyone who needs them. The law fights “period poverty” and ensures access to essential products for everyone who menstruates.

Alaska may not have a statewide law yet, but local schools, universities, and nonprofits are stepping up. In Anchorage and Fairbanks, several high schools now provide free tampons and pads in restrooms, and some community centers stock supplies for low-income residents.

Programs like Girls on the Run Alaska and local food pantries are including menstrual products in care packages, making sure students and families facing financial challenges have what they need. These initiatives help reduce absenteeism, support health and hygiene, and give dignity to those who might otherwise go without.

Girls on the Run participants in Southcentral Alaska engage in running, teamwork, and personal development, building confidence and healthy habits for life. Photo: Girls on the Run Southcentral Alaska

Spelling Glory on the Line with Madison Thompson in the Spotlight

Anchorage’s Madison Thompson looks forward to the State Spelling Bee at the Wendy Williamson Auditorium, chasing the crown and a chance to compete at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Photo: Alaska Headline Living ©

Alaska’s best spellers gather tomorrow, Friday, March 20, at the Wendy Williamson Auditorium in Anchorage for the State Spelling Bee.

To reach this stage, students first won school-level competitions, then advanced through regional and district bees, proving their spelling skills against the toughest local challengers. Among them is Anchorage’s Madison Thompson, chasing the state crown and a ticket to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

Students take the stage at the Wendy Williamson Auditorium during the 2023 Alaska State Spelling Bee, showing focus and determination as they prepare to spell their way to the top. Photo: Alaska State Spelling Bee – ADN

Coverage will be provided by Alaska Headline Living. Congratulations to Madison and all the students for their achievement in making it this far. Cheer loud for them all.

If Madison advances to the national finals, those rounds are televised on Ion Television and can also be streamed live via the Scripps website and YouTube. See you there!

Homer Winter King Salmon Tournament Back on Track

Homer’s harbor shows off its winter chill as the countdown begins for the 32nd Annual Winter King Salmon Tournament. Photo: Homer Winter King Salmon Tournament

After a weather delay, the 32nd Annual Homer Winter King Salmon Tournament will hook back in on Saturday, March 28, in Kachemak Bay. Anglers will vie for tens of thousands in prize money, with past champions landing an average of $77,910 per big catch.

The one-day festival is not just about fishing. Live music, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, vendors, and surprises await at the Deep Water Dock. New safety protocols keep anglers secure while ensuring the local king salmon population stays strong. Grab your rod, your camera, or just your appetite for fun. It is a full Alaska celebration and those fish don’t fish themselves!

Register to fish and join the fun here: Homer Winter King Salmon Tournament Registration