πͺΆ A powerful joint message from Alaska Native leaders. π The Alaska Native Heritage Center, Ketchikan Indian Community, and the Tlingit and Haida tribes have released a joint statement strongly condemning recent acts of cultural disrespect circulating on social media, where tourists have been seen mocking and dancing in front of totem poles in Southeast Alaska. π² Indigenous leaders are reminding the public that totem poles are absolutely not amusement attractions or props for social media trendsβthey are sacred expressions of living traditions, history, and identity carried forward through generations. πͺ΅ While visitors are always welcome to experience the incredible richness of Alaska Native cultures, leaders emphasize that respect must be the absolute foundation of that relationship. π¦ Read the full joint statement and learn how to better honor and protect these sacred traditions here: π #AlaskaNativeCulture#respectindigenousart#totempoles#southeastalaska#CulturalPreservation#HonorTradition... See MoreSee Less
Looking for something fun to do? Check out our latest Community Corner update featuring awesome local events happening right here in our community!
πΈ Drop by the Kenai Community Library on Monday, July 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a fun flower scavenger hunt.
βͺ Resurrection Lutheran Church in Seward is hosting a free Vacation Bible School from July 13 through July 17 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily, with walk-in registration starting Monday at 9 a.m.
π± Tweens and teens ages twelve and up can grow grass hair and decorate containers during the Potted Pals event on Monday, July 13, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Homer Public Library.
π€ Bring a chair or blanket to the Kenai Community Library lawn on Tuesday, July 14, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. for a nature-themed open mic night.
π Join Librarian Cinda and Gardener Saskia for a garden-themed story time and some community weeding on Wednesday, July 15, at 2 p.m. at the Homer Public Library.
βοΈ Celebrate with Aurora Beauty Lounge during their official ribbon-cutting ceremony at their new Homer location on Thursday, July 16, at 2 p.m.
πΈ Enjoy live synth, ska, and local punk at The Porcupine Theater on Thursday, July 16, from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. featuring USETHEMAP, Lo(u)ser, DiscopianS, and D.S.B. for fifteen dollars.
π Bring the family to a free weekly Storytime at the Seward Community Library and Museum on Friday, July 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
πΈ Attend a free Kenai Chronicles lecture on vintage cameras with photographer Bill Holloway at the Kenai Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center on Friday, July 17, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
π΅ Float with the tides at the annual Songs on the Slough free concerts on Friday, July 17, and Saturday, July 18, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the Seldovia Slough.
β³ Sign up for the Seward Rotary Golf Classic on Saturday, July 18, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to help raise money for community Rotary projects.
πΊ Create custom ceramic peony diffusers at the Homer Council on the Arts studio on Saturday, July 18, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., featuring Brazilian limeade for ages twelve and up.
π³ Show off your outdoor culinary skills at the Camp Stove Cookoff on Saturday, July 18, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Branson Pavilion for thirty dollars.
πΏ Experience life on a peony farm with the Alaska Beauty Peony Co-op volunteer program starting Sunday, July 19, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
π The ultimate road trip reunion! π Three lifelong friends and North Eugene High School classmates from the Class of 1969 are officially retracing the epic Alaska Highway journey that changed their lives forever, exactly 57 years later. π£οΈ Fresh out of high school back in 1969, Gregory Theim, Ty Pierce, and Gary Gleaves packed into a red Chevrolet van and drove nearly 2,800 miles from Oregon to Anchorage to work at a salmon cannery. π That wild summer adventure turned into a six-decade friendship, and now they are doing it all over again in a recreated red GMC van. π Their arrival date carries the ultimate full-circle meaning: they hit Anchorage right on the Summer Solstice, marking the exact 57th anniversary of their original arrival, which also happens to be Garyβs 75th birthday in the very same city where he celebrated his 18th. βοΈ Talk about an incredible reminder that true friendship and great adventures never go out of style. π² Read the heartwarming full story of their nostalgic trek up north and see the classic photos right here: π¦ #AlaskaHighway#RoadTripReunion#LifeLongFriends#TheLastFrontier#Anchorage#SummerSolstice#EugeneToAlaska... See MoreSee Less
π The Boozer legacy continues! π Decades after his dad Carlos Boozer was tearing up the court in Juneau, Cameron Boozer is officially heading to the league! π Cameron was selected third overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2026 NBA Draft, walking the stage at the Barclays Center with his proud family cheering him on. π» After an absolutely dominant season with the Duke Blue Devils where he took home National College Player of the Year honors, the 6'9" forward is ready to bring his winning mentality and work ethic to the next level. π His selection comes 24 years after his father was drafted 35th overall, paving the way for a legendary career that included an Olympic gold medal and a recent induction into the Hall of Fame. π₯ Carlos expressed just how incredibly proud he is to see his sons putting their own fingerprints on their basketball legacy. π Read the full story on Cameron's historic draft night, his time at Duke, and what his coaches say makes him an immediate impact player here: π #NBADraft2026#MemphisGrizzlies#DukeBlueDevils#AlaskaBasketball#JuneauProud#BoozerLegacy#NextLevel... See MoreSee Less
ποΈ Talk about an incredible family legacy! β¨ Seattle mountaineer Bailey D'Antonio just achieved her lifelong dream of summiting North America's tallest peak, completing a massive journey that began 30 years ago when her mother conquered all 50 state high points. π§ββοΈ After years of checking off peaks ranging from Florida's 345-foot Britton Hill to Alaska's breathtaking 20,310-foot summit, Bailey officially followed in her mom's footsteps earlier this week. π As a physician's assistant, she used her medical training, checklists, and precision to stay safe, but an avalanche-thwarted attempt last year taught her that patience and community matter far more than just crossing a goal off a list. βοΈ Now that her high-point quest is complete, she is already eyeing her next major adventure: running a marathon in every single state! πββοΈ Read the full, inspiring story of her multi-year journey, her deep family connection, and what it took to stand at the top of the continent here: π #Mountaineering#Denali#Legacy#Climbing#AdventureAwaits#WomenWhoClimb#AlaskaHigh... See MoreSee Less
β½οΈ Alaska is making major history on the world stage! π Anchorage's very own Obed Vargas has officially become the first Alaskan ever to play in the World Cup, stepping onto the pitch for Mexico in their intense group stage match against South Korea! π²π½β¨ The 20-year-old midfielder grew up playing for the Cook Inlet Soccer Club before moving at age 14 to pursue his dream, and his family credits his early preparation in the Last Frontier for helping him reach the ultimate soccer stage. π² While it has been a total culture shock for soccer fans in Mexico to learn about the incredible talent coming out of Alaska, the Vargas family hopes Obed's journey inspires the next generation of northern athletes to dream big and hit the pitch. π Check out the emotional full story and follow the rest of our World Cup coverage right here: π #WorldCup2026#AlaskaProud#ObedVargas#Anchorage#SoccerHistory#CookInletSC#Inspiration... See MoreSee Less
The World Cup continues with Mexico and South Korea facing off on Thursday. On the sidelines, Obed Vargas will be making history as the first Alaskan to be a part of a World Cup qualifying team.
π While Alaskans don't usually encounter ticks as often as people in the Lower 48, these tiny parasites are out there, and the state wants your help tracking them! π²
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation is encouraging residents, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts to participate in their Submit-A-Tick program. π
Alaska is home to six native tick species, but changing environmental factors have allowed invasive species like the American dog tick and brown dog tick to establish populations in major hubs like Anchorage and Fairbanks. π
Safe tick removal is easy: carefully pull it off with tweezers, seal it in a container inside a Ziploc bag, fill out the state submission form, and mail or drop it off at the Office of the State Veterinarian lab in Anchorage. π₯
State Veterinarian Sarah Coburn shares that while none of the ticks native to or established in Alaska have tested positive for dangerous pathogens like Lyme disease yet, continuous tracking is critical as temperatures shift. π¬
Read the full article to learn exactly how to identify these pests, protect your pets, and find the step-by-step instructions for submitting a tick here: π
Alaskans donβt generally encounter ticks as often as others in the Lower 48, though the parasites are present and pets are more likely to attract them.
With the nationβs 250th birthday this week, fireworks are about to light up the sky π But did you know that dogs can hear four to five times better than humans? πΎ What is a fun celebration for us can be terrifying for them, which is why July 4th to July 6th is actually the busiest time of the year for animal shelters due to runaway pets π Gordon Sloane, owner of Camp Bow Wow in Anchorage, is urging pet owners to take some simple precautions to keep their furry friends safe and calm this week π Keep your pups in a cool, quiet room with dim lights and some white noise to drown out the booms π§ Make sure their microchips and ID tags are completely up to date just in case they get startled and run π·οΈ Watch out for toxic backyard BBQ scraps like grapes and corn cobs that might drop on the floor π½ If you are celebrating near the water, keep a doggy life vest nearby π Most importantly, stay calm yourself because your pets mirror your energy π§ββοΈ Check out our full article for more expert tips from Camp Bow Wow and the American Veterinary Medical Association to ensure a happy, safe holiday for the whole family: πΊπΈβ¨ #PetSafety#FourthOfJuly#DogCare#CampBowWow#HomerDogs#SafePetsHappyPets#July4thSafety#DogLovers... See MoreSee Less
While the Fourth of July is a time of celebration for many, the loud noises, bright flashes, and large crowds can be a major trigger for post-traumatic stress disorder in our service members and veterans π According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, fireworks can serve as painful trauma reminders for those who have experienced combat, fire, or explosions, and about seven out of 100 veterans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives πΊπΈ PTSD can show up as nightmares, isolation, increased depression, or aggression, affecting family relationships and daily life, but there is incredible support available β€οΈ MaryBeth Goodman, executive director of Alaska Behavioral Health Veterans and Family Programs and head of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic, shares that they offer multiple treatment approaches from therapy to case management to help people regain control π€ If you or a loved one are navigating the holiday, Goodman suggests using noise-canceling headphones, wearing sunglasses to soften visual flashes, or setting up a quiet, dark room to retreat to during parties π§ Hosts and families can also plan smaller gatherings or leave celebrations early to keep things low-stress π‘ Veterans and active-duty families can find tailored resources at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic in Fairbanks and Anchorage by calling (907) 762-8668 π Please know you are never alone, and if you need someone to talk to right away, you can always call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or text HELLO to 741741 ποΈ Read the full article for more vital tips and resources on supporting our heroes this holiday week: β¨ #PTSDAwareness#4thOfJuly#SupportOurVeterans#MentalHealthMatters#VeteransCare#AlaskaBehavioralHealth#CohenClinic#July4thSafety... See MoreSee Less
πͺΆ A powerful joint message from Alaska Native leaders. π
The Alaska Native Heritage Center, Ketchikan Indian Community, and the Tlingit and Haida tribes have released a joint statement strongly condemning recent acts of cultural disrespect circulating on social media, where tourists have been seen mocking and dancing in front of totem poles in Southeast Alaska. π²
Indigenous leaders are reminding the public that totem poles are absolutely not amusement attractions or props for social media trendsβthey are sacred expressions of living traditions, history, and identity carried forward through generations. πͺ΅
While visitors are always welcome to experience the incredible richness of Alaska Native cultures, leaders emphasize that respect must be the absolute foundation of that relationship. π¦
Read the full joint statement and learn how to better honor and protect these sacred traditions here: π
#AlaskaNativeCulture #respectindigenousart #totempoles #southeastalaska #CulturalPreservation #HonorTradition ... See MoreSee Less
Alaska Native communites condemn social media trend ‘mocking’ totem poles - Peninsula Clarion
www.peninsulaclarion.com
Native communites say cultural symbols are not tourist attractions created for public amusement0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Looking for something fun to do? Check out our latest Community Corner update featuring awesome local events happening right here in our community!
πΈ Drop by the Kenai Community Library on Monday, July 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a fun flower scavenger hunt.
βͺ Resurrection Lutheran Church in Seward is hosting a free Vacation Bible School from July 13 through July 17 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily, with walk-in registration starting Monday at 9 a.m.
π± Tweens and teens ages twelve and up can grow grass hair and decorate containers during the Potted Pals event on Monday, July 13, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Homer Public Library.
π€ Bring a chair or blanket to the Kenai Community Library lawn on Tuesday, July 14, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. for a nature-themed open mic night.
π Join Librarian Cinda and Gardener Saskia for a garden-themed story time and some community weeding on Wednesday, July 15, at 2 p.m. at the Homer Public Library.
βοΈ Celebrate with Aurora Beauty Lounge during their official ribbon-cutting ceremony at their new Homer location on Thursday, July 16, at 2 p.m.
πΈ Enjoy live synth, ska, and local punk at The Porcupine Theater on Thursday, July 16, from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. featuring USETHEMAP, Lo(u)ser, DiscopianS, and D.S.B. for fifteen dollars.
π Bring the family to a free weekly Storytime at the Seward Community Library and Museum on Friday, July 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
πΈ Attend a free Kenai Chronicles lecture on vintage cameras with photographer Bill Holloway at the Kenai Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center on Friday, July 17, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
π΅ Float with the tides at the annual Songs on the Slough free concerts on Friday, July 17, and Saturday, July 18, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the Seldovia Slough.
β³ Sign up for the Seward Rotary Golf Classic on Saturday, July 18, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to help raise money for community Rotary projects.
πΊ Create custom ceramic peony diffusers at the Homer Council on the Arts studio on Saturday, July 18, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., featuring Brazilian limeade for ages twelve and up.
π³ Show off your outdoor culinary skills at the Camp Stove Cookoff on Saturday, July 18, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Branson Pavilion for thirty dollars.
πΏ Experience life on a peony farm with the Alaska Beauty Peony Co-op volunteer program starting Sunday, July 19, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
#communitycorner #localevents #AlaskaLife #supportlocal #CommunityFun #summeractivities ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
π The ultimate road trip reunion! π
Three lifelong friends and North Eugene High School classmates from the Class of 1969 are officially retracing the epic Alaska Highway journey that changed their lives forever, exactly 57 years later. π£οΈ
Fresh out of high school back in 1969, Gregory Theim, Ty Pierce, and Gary Gleaves packed into a red Chevrolet van and drove nearly 2,800 miles from Oregon to Anchorage to work at a salmon cannery. π
That wild summer adventure turned into a six-decade friendship, and now they are doing it all over again in a recreated red GMC van. π
Their arrival date carries the ultimate full-circle meaning: they hit Anchorage right on the Summer Solstice, marking the exact 57th anniversary of their original arrival, which also happens to be Garyβs 75th birthday in the very same city where he celebrated his 18th. βοΈ
Talk about an incredible reminder that true friendship and great adventures never go out of style. π²
Read the heartwarming full story of their nostalgic trek up north and see the classic photos right here: π¦
#AlaskaHighway #RoadTripReunion #LifeLongFriends #TheLastFrontier #Anchorage #SummerSolstice #EugeneToAlaska ... See MoreSee Less
Trio recreates Alaska Highway journey after more than a half century - Peninsula Clarion
www.peninsulaclarion.com
The 1969 adventure shaped the lives of Gregory Theim, Ty Pierce, and Gary Gleaves0 CommentsComment on Facebook
π The Boozer legacy continues! π
Decades after his dad Carlos Boozer was tearing up the court in Juneau, Cameron Boozer is officially heading to the league! π
Cameron was selected third overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2026 NBA Draft, walking the stage at the Barclays Center with his proud family cheering him on. π»
After an absolutely dominant season with the Duke Blue Devils where he took home National College Player of the Year honors, the 6'9" forward is ready to bring his winning mentality and work ethic to the next level. π
His selection comes 24 years after his father was drafted 35th overall, paving the way for a legendary career that included an Olympic gold medal and a recent induction into the Hall of Fame. π₯
Carlos expressed just how incredibly proud he is to see his sons putting their own fingerprints on their basketball legacy. π
Read the full story on Cameron's historic draft night, his time at Duke, and what his coaches say makes him an immediate impact player here: π
#NBADraft2026 #MemphisGrizzlies #DukeBlueDevils #AlaskaBasketball #JuneauProud #BoozerLegacy #NextLevel ... See MoreSee Less
Memphis Grizzlies select son of Juneau legend Carlos Boozer in NBA Draft
www.alaskasnewssource.com
Like father like son, another Boozer has heard his named called in the NBA Draft0 CommentsComment on Facebook
ποΈ Talk about an incredible family legacy! β¨
Seattle mountaineer Bailey D'Antonio just achieved her lifelong dream of summiting North America's tallest peak, completing a massive journey that began 30 years ago when her mother conquered all 50 state high points. π§ββοΈ
After years of checking off peaks ranging from Florida's 345-foot Britton Hill to Alaska's breathtaking 20,310-foot summit, Bailey officially followed in her mom's footsteps earlier this week. π
As a physician's assistant, she used her medical training, checklists, and precision to stay safe, but an avalanche-thwarted attempt last year taught her that patience and community matter far more than just crossing a goal off a list. βοΈ
Now that her high-point quest is complete, she is already eyeing her next major adventure: running a marathon in every single state! πββοΈ
Read the full, inspiring story of her multi-year journey, her deep family connection, and what it took to stand at the top of the continent here: π
#Mountaineering #Denali #Legacy #Climbing #AdventureAwaits #WomenWhoClimb #AlaskaHigh ... See MoreSee Less
Seattle climber reflects after summiting all 50 states’ high points, ending in Alaska
www.alaskasnewssource.com
What began as a dream passed from mother to daughter culminated this week in a successful ascent of North Americaβs tallest mountain.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
β½οΈ Alaska is making major history on the world stage! π
Anchorage's very own Obed Vargas has officially become the first Alaskan ever to play in the World Cup, stepping onto the pitch for Mexico in their intense group stage match against South Korea! π²π½β¨
The 20-year-old midfielder grew up playing for the Cook Inlet Soccer Club before moving at age 14 to pursue his dream, and his family credits his early preparation in the Last Frontier for helping him reach the ultimate soccer stage. π²
While it has been a total culture shock for soccer fans in Mexico to learn about the incredible talent coming out of Alaska, the Vargas family hopes Obed's journey inspires the next generation of northern athletes to dream big and hit the pitch. π
Check out the emotional full story and follow the rest of our World Cup coverage right here: π
#WorldCup2026 #AlaskaProud #ObedVargas #Anchorage #SoccerHistory #CookInletSC #Inspiration ... See MoreSee Less
‘He’s always been proud of where he comes from’: Alaskan makes history as first ever to play in World Cup
www.alaskasnewssource.com
The World Cup continues with Mexico and South Korea facing off on Thursday. On the sidelines, Obed Vargas will be making history as the first Alaskan to be a part of a World Cup qualifying team.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
π While Alaskans don't usually encounter ticks as often as people in the Lower 48, these tiny parasites are out there, and the state wants your help tracking them! π²
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation is encouraging residents, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts to participate in their Submit-A-Tick program. π
Alaska is home to six native tick species, but changing environmental factors have allowed invasive species like the American dog tick and brown dog tick to establish populations in major hubs like Anchorage and Fairbanks. π
Safe tick removal is easy: carefully pull it off with tweezers, seal it in a container inside a Ziploc bag, fill out the state submission form, and mail or drop it off at the Office of the State Veterinarian lab in Anchorage. π₯
State Veterinarian Sarah Coburn shares that while none of the ticks native to or established in Alaska have tested positive for dangerous pathogens like Lyme disease yet, continuous tracking is critical as temperatures shift. π¬
Read the full article to learn exactly how to identify these pests, protect your pets, and find the step-by-step instructions for submitting a tick here: π
#AlaskaWildlife #PetSafety #PublicHealth #SubmitATick #Anchorage #Fairbanks #CitizenScience ... See MoreSee Less
Tallying ticks in Alaska and where to take them
www.alaskasnewssource.com
Alaskans donβt generally encounter ticks as often as others in the Lower 48, though the parasites are present and pets are more likely to attract them.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
With the nationβs 250th birthday this week, fireworks are about to light up the sky π
But did you know that dogs can hear four to five times better than humans? πΎ
What is a fun celebration for us can be terrifying for them, which is why July 4th to July 6th is actually the busiest time of the year for animal shelters due to runaway pets π
Gordon Sloane, owner of Camp Bow Wow in Anchorage, is urging pet owners to take some simple precautions to keep their furry friends safe and calm this week π
Keep your pups in a cool, quiet room with dim lights and some white noise to drown out the booms π§
Make sure their microchips and ID tags are completely up to date just in case they get startled and run π·οΈ
Watch out for toxic backyard BBQ scraps like grapes and corn cobs that might drop on the floor π½
If you are celebrating near the water, keep a doggy life vest nearby π
Most importantly, stay calm yourself because your pets mirror your energy π§ββοΈ
Check out our full article for more expert tips from Camp Bow Wow and the American Veterinary Medical Association to ensure a happy, safe holiday for the whole family: πΊπΈβ¨
#PetSafety #FourthOfJuly #DogCare #CampBowWow #HomerDogs #SafePetsHappyPets #July4thSafety #DogLovers ... See MoreSee Less
Fireworks, food, and more: How to keep your dog safe during fourth of July
www.alaskasnewssource.com
With the nationβs 250th birthday this week, an Anchorage dog daycare owner is urging pet owners to take precautions before the fireworks start.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
While the Fourth of July is a time of celebration for many, the loud noises, bright flashes, and large crowds can be a major trigger for post-traumatic stress disorder in our service members and veterans π
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, fireworks can serve as painful trauma reminders for those who have experienced combat, fire, or explosions, and about seven out of 100 veterans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives πΊπΈ
PTSD can show up as nightmares, isolation, increased depression, or aggression, affecting family relationships and daily life, but there is incredible support available β€οΈ
MaryBeth Goodman, executive director of Alaska Behavioral Health Veterans and Family Programs and head of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic, shares that they offer multiple treatment approaches from therapy to case management to help people regain control π€
If you or a loved one are navigating the holiday, Goodman suggests using noise-canceling headphones, wearing sunglasses to soften visual flashes, or setting up a quiet, dark room to retreat to during parties π§
Hosts and families can also plan smaller gatherings or leave celebrations early to keep things low-stress π‘
Veterans and active-duty families can find tailored resources at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic in Fairbanks and Anchorage by calling (907) 762-8668 π
Please know you are never alone, and if you need someone to talk to right away, you can always call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or text HELLO to 741741 ποΈ
Read the full article for more vital tips and resources on supporting our heroes this holiday week: β¨
#PTSDAwareness #4thOfJuly #SupportOurVeterans #MentalHealthMatters #VeteransCare #AlaskaBehavioralHealth #CohenClinic #July4thSafety ... See MoreSee Less
Fourth of July gatherings could trigger PTSD symptoms, experts say
www.alaskasnewssource.com
How you can support a service member or veteran during holiday celebrations that may trigger post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.0 CommentsComment on Facebook