Grenades, Begich and Running for Local Office

A new bill in Congress, co-sponsored by Rep. Nick Begich, would require candidates for federal office to disclose any dual citizenships.
The Dual Loyalty Disclosure Act would make second citizenships public in campaign filings.
The bill, House Resolution 2356, is awaiting committee action.

An unexploded grenade found on a Ketchikan beach was safely detonated over the weekend.
A survey crew discovered the device near mile 8 of North Tongass Highway.
U.S. Army explosives experts from Anchorage destroyed it without incident. No injuries were reported.

The Juneau Assembly will hold a special meeting April 30 to introduce a $480 million budget for Fiscal Year 2026.

The plan includes $61 million for capital projects and proposes a potential property tax increase.

Public testimony will be taken in person or over Zoom—Zoom users must contact the CBJ Clerk’s Office by 4 p.m. that day.

The University of Alaska Southeast has again been named a Military Friendly School, earning Gold distinction for 2025–26.

UAS also received a Military Spouse Friendly designation, with services coordinated by military advisor Deborah Rydman.

Commencement ceremonies will be held May 2–4 in Ketchikan, Sitka, and Juneau.

Thinking about public service?

The City and Borough of Juneau and the League of Women Voters are hosting a free workshop May 3 at City Hall.

Learn about campaigning basics, candidacy requirements, and hear directly from current elected officials.

Registration is encouraged at the League’s website.

Creating tribally operated public schools in Alaska, House Bill 59, advanced through the House Tribal Affairs Committee.

Supporters like Tristan Douville and Jodi Gatti testified to the importance of Native language instruction.

The bill expands on past compacting efforts, with Governor Dunleavy urging quick passage.

Daren Herman, grandson of Alaska flag designer Benny Benson, visited the state for the first time last week.

He arrived from North Dakota to accept an honorary doctorate from Alaska Pacific University.

Supporters welcomed him at the airport, and Herman said he hopes to return soon.