🌱 Linked Funding For Ports + 'Addressing Alaskans' On COVID

Morning, Anchorage! Here's everything you need to know to get this day started. Here's everything worth knowing today in town.

First, today's weather:

Partly sunny and cold. High: 14 Low: 7.

Here are the top 3 stories in Anchorage today:

1. Governor Mike Dunleavy and his administration have suggested that the Municipality of Anchorage and Matanuska-Susitna Borough look into forming a new regional port authority. By doing so, they will be able to decide how to spend $175 million in general obligation bond funds for repairs needed at both. Dunleavy know that this linked funding for Anchorage and Mat-Su ports will be a tough sell. (Anchorage Daily News)
2. COVID-19 has affected the lives of so many during the past few years. This week's episode of "Addressing Alaskans" is continuing to showcase speakers from the 2021 Bettye Davis African American Summit on COVID-19 to address the effects of the pandemic. Tune in to hear discussions covering how COVID-19 has impacted the local and national economy and how the pandemic has affected the local justice system. (Alaska Public Media News)
3. This past Saturday afternoon, Kathy Henslee held a fundraiser at the Carousel Lounge in Spenard. Many people came out to support her. Henslee is running against incumbent Assemblywoman Meg Zaletel for a seat to represent Assembly District 4. She has stated that she is running because she's tired of public servants ignoring the needs of the community. (Must Read Alaska)

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Today in Anchorage:

• AARP Tax Help at Z.J. Loussac Public Library (Feb. 1 at 12:00 PM)
• Art Lab at Gerrish Library (Feb. 1 at 3:30 PM)
• Be Kind to your Mind at Online Location (Feb. 1 at 9:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Anchorage Police Department is asking everyone to please join them in congratulating and welcoming Officer Glasper! After officially completing the FTO (Field Training) Program, he is now able to serve as one of their newest officers on the street. (Facebook)
• The Alaska Zoo is reminding everyone that Sunday night was the last night of Zoo Lights until February 11th. If you weren't able to see the dazzling displays this past weekend, make sure to mark your calendars for next month! For more details check out their post! (Instagram)
• The American Heart Association of Alaska is looking out for you on your Football Sundays! While everybody should be able to enjoy some game-day treats, they should also make sure that they aren't too bad for their health. That's why the American Heart Association of Alaska has the perfect solution: Buffalo White Bean Hummus with Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Chips! (Facebook)

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You're officially in the loop for today. See you all tomorrow for another update!

— Dominique-Noelle Rafael

About me: Dominique is a self taught UX/UI designer based in Princeton, NJ. She recently graduated from the University of Maryland last spring with a bachelor's degree in Information Science. She is excited to begin working on the Patch newsletter project this year!