Rural policing, legislative action, local leadership, conservation, and community celebration are all on display this week as Alaskans shape a busy stretch of progress and pride.
Troopers to Establish Permanent Presence in Stebbins, St. Michael
In a historic step toward public safety and trust, the Alaska State Troopers have announced plans to establish a full-time presence in the Bering Strait communities of Stebbins and St. Michael. Both villages are listed as local option communities that restrict alcohol sales and importation under state law. The effort comes with formal state approval and close collaboration with local leaders, marking a new chapter in ensuring safety and stability in two of western Alaska’s most remote communities.
Legislature Moves to Tighten Residency Rules for Hunting, Fishing
Over in Juneau, lawmakers are revisiting what it means to be an Alaska resident when it comes to outdoor privileges. The House has voted to advance HB 93, sponsored by Rep. Scott Kawasaki of Fairbanks, aligning state hunting and fishing license standards more closely with Permanent Fund Dividend residency requirements. Supporters argue the bill protects Alaska’s resources for year round residents, while some question whether the changes could unfairly limit part time or seasonal Alaskans. The bill now heads to the Senate for further debate.
Anchorage Police Arrest Suspect After Lowe’s Fire
Anchorage first responders tackled a late-night blaze outside the Lowe’s store on East Tudor Road Monday evening after dispatch received a general fire waterflow alarm followed by a call from someone on scene. Firefighters found burning cardboard at one corner of the building’s exterior with light smoke seeping inside, and while extinguishing it, discovered several more fires around the exterior which they quickly knocked down. Some crews ventilated the large commercial structure afterward while an AFD fire investigator responded to the scene.
Investigators say a Duraflame log was thrown into the cardboard, sparking the flames. Officers arrested 42-year-old Falani Solomona nearby and charged him with first-degree arson, criminal mischief, and violating conditions of release before remanding him to the Anchorage Correctional Complex. Damage to the building was contained, and no injuries were reported.
Mat Su Borough Opens Absentee Voting Applications
The Matanuska Susitna Borough Clerk’s Office reminds voters that absentee by mail applications are now open for the November 3, 2026 regular borough election. Any registered Mat Su Borough voter may apply for a ballot by mail, but the Clerk’s Office must receive applications no later than October 27, seven days before Election Day. Absentee by mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received by November 6, or hand delivered to a borough election official by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Borough absentee applications must be submitted each year and are separate from those used for state and city elections in Houston, Palmer, and Wasilla. For more information, voters can call the Borough Clerk’s Office at 907 861 8683.
MEA Invites Local Leadership for 2026 Board Seats
Community leadership opportunities are also on the table this week, as Matanuska Electric Association opens applications for its 2026 Board of Directors election. Two seats are up for election in April 2026, including one Eagle River district seat and one At Large seat representing MEA’s broader service area. Completed board candidate applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, and candidates must meet eligibility and residency requirements in MEA’s bylaws. Serving on the MEA Board is a way for members to help guide long term planning and ensure reliable, affordable power for local communities.
MEA Announces 35,000 Dollars in Scholarships for 2026
Alongside civic involvement, MEA is encouraging educational advancement through 35,000 dollars in scholarships for members and their dependents. Scholarships can be used for vocational programs, certifications, and traditional college degrees across MEA’s service area. Applications are open through March 27, and MEA encourages students of all ages and career paths to apply early.
Alaska SeaLife Center Provides Care for Rare Ringed Seal
In Seward, the Alaska SeaLife Center continues care for a rescued ringed seal found out of his habitat on an oilfield in Alaska’s Beaufort Sea on December 17, 2025. The young male, part of the Arctic subspecies listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, was transported for treatment after attempts to guide him back to sea failed and safety concerns grew in the industrial area. Under a precautionary non release policy developed by NOAA Fisheries and the Ice Seal Committee, ice seals transported outside their natural range for care cannot be released, to avoid disease transmission between marine ecosystems. As one of very few ringed seals in human care, this animal will serve as an ambassador for his species and help researchers understand the challenges facing ice dependent seals in a warming Arctic. The Center urges Alaskans to call the 24 hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1 888 774 SEAL before approaching injured or stranded marine wildlife.
Juneau’s Got Talent Takes the Stage February 7
For those looking for a lighter evening, the stage lights will shine in the capital as Juneau’s Got Talent returns to the Juneau Arts and Culture Center on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Thirteen performers, including singers, dancers, clowns, musicians, and bands, will compete for a 1,000 dollar grand prize and the title of 2026 Juneau’s Got Talent champion. A panel of guest judges and audience “votes” purchased with dollars will determine the winner, promising a lively and interactive night. Conor Lendrum will emcee an evening that also features a no host bar by TK Maguires, a dessert auction, door prizes, and special performances by Tyson Brooks and Juneau Dance Theatre. Doors at the JACC, 350 Whittier Street, open at 6 p.m., with the show at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are 35 dollars in advance and 45 dollars at the door, and organizers encourage attendees to buy early before the event sells out.
