Alaskans are on alert as search teams continue the rescue of Grant Akaran, missing near St. Mary’s while out hunting on his snowmachine. Across the state, we’re also honoring historic leaders, celebrating community events, and bringing a little pop culture fun all in one place.
Missing Snow Machiner Grant Akaran
Search efforts are underway for 31-year-old Grant Akaran of Pilot Station after he was reported overdue near St. Mary’s.
According to the Alaska Wildlife Troopers, Akaran left Pilot Station around 9 a.m. on February 14 on a 2019 Ski-Doo snowmachine, traveling up the Chuilnak River to hunt for moose sheds. He did not return as scheduled. On the morning of February 15, troopers were notified, and the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center dispatched a helicopter to assist with an aerial search.
Efforts are ongoing.
2. Elizabeth Peratrovich Day
Today Alaska honors Elizabeth Peratrovich, the Tlingit civil rights leader whose courage helped change the course of Alaska history.
On February 16, 1945, Governor Ernest Gruening signed Alaska’s Anti-Discrimination Act into law, nearly 20 years before the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964. Peratrovich, Raven of the Lukaax̱.ádi clan, was instrumental in pushing the bill forward and delivered one of the most powerful speeches in state history during legislative debate.
At the time, she was Grand President of the Alaska Native Sisterhood, working alongside the Alaska Native Brotherhood to fight for voting rights, civil rights reform, and long-term equity for Alaska Native people.
In 2020, the United States Mint honored her on a one-dollar coin, making her the first Alaska Native to appear on U.S. currency.
Her legacy continues to shape Alaska today.
3. Bettye Davis African American Summit in Anchorage
The Alaska Black Caucus will host the 7th annual Bettye Davis African American Summit on February 28, 2026 at Alaska Pacific University.
Theme: “Bridging Generations for Justice: Honoring Heritage and Empowering Future Leaders.”
The summit focuses on sharing stories across generations, civil rights history, and building leadership for the future.
The event continues the legacy of Bettye Davis, the first African American woman elected to the Alaska State House and later the first African American elected to the Alaska State Senate. Davis was a tireless advocate for children and justice and founded the original summit to bring community members together in action.
Programming begins February 22 with a week of events including Black Church gatherings and financial literacy sessions at the Equity Center, leading up to the main summit on February 28.
Musical Highlight: Grammy-winning R&B group Club Nouveau will perform in Anchorage on February 27 at Williwaw Social. While the group was formed in Sacramento, California, its founder Jay King spent time in Anchorage early in his life while stationed in the U.S. Air Force, creating a personal Alaska connection. The concert is part of the summit’s broader community engagement efforts, including voter registration and civic participation outreach.
Organizers are seeking sponsors, vendors, advertisers, and volunteers to support the week’s events.
4. Food Bank of Alaska
Food Bank of Alaska is open today. However, in observance of Presidents Day, some local food pantries may be closed.
If you or someone you know needs food assistance, check the distribution schedule at foodbankofalaska.org/help or dial 2-1-1 for the most current information in your community.
5. Sitka Sound Science Center
The Sitka Sound Science Center is preparing for the first annual State of the Sound, set for February 19–21, 2026.
This free, three-day gathering invites community members, researchers, culture bearers, students, and partners to share what they are seeing and learning about the lands and waters surrounding Sitka Sound.
Through presentations, storytelling, field trips, and interactive sessions, participants will explore terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems, blending lived experience with scientific research. Organizers say it is about building a fuller picture of what we know, what we are still learning, and why it matters.
The event is open to everyone, with flexible attendance options.
6. An Evening with Kevin Smith
Filmmaker and pop culture icon Kevin Smith is headed to Anchorage for “An Evening with Kevin Smith” at Discovery Theatre on March 26 and 27, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
Smith first rose to prominence with his 1994 indie film Clerks and as half of the cult duo Jay and Silent Bob. His long-running View Askewniverse films, podcast network, comic book ventures, and live Q&A sessions have built a loyal following. The show is described as unscripted, conversational, and unfiltered, blending comedy with behind-the-scenes stories from film and pop culture. Get tickets here.
Advisory: This performance may contain adult or mature content.
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