My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Jordyn Durr and Brooke McPheters during this difficult time. Their deaths were avoidable and serve as a stark reminder to never drink and drive. I join the community in grieving because of this senseless tragedy.
Last week I received a validating report from the Office of the Inspector General and a forensic study on the Port of Anchorage construction work. I want you to know that I will continue to keep the Port construction project as my highest priority. Educate yourself, it's worth the time!
I'm happy to take your ideas and solutions. E-mail me at mayor@muni.org.
Mayor Dan Sullivan
UAA's Alaska Airlines Center
Last week I had the opportunity to tour the construction site of the University of Alaska Anchorage's new Alaska Airlines Center, a state-of-the art sports facility that is scheduled to open in August 2014.
The Alaska Airlines Center will provide a 5,600 seat arena, auxiliary gym seating 600-800, gymnastics practice and performance gym, and athletics fitness and training facilities.
Mayor Sullivan with UAA Director of Development for Athletics Tlisa Northcutt and UAA Chancellor Tom Case.
Covenant House Ribbon Cutting
Covenant House Alaska recently opened the doors of their new, larger facility. The new space will allow the organization better help the homeless and runaway youth it currently serves.
The larger facility will have programs that focus on work force development and education for youth ages 13-20. The new building will also house music and art programs.
Photo Credit: André Horton
Two Blind to Ride
Visually impairedcyclists Christiana Bruchok and Tauru Chaw rode tandem from Ushuaia, Argentina to Deadhorse, Alaska in order to raise awareness about the abilities of the sight-impaired.
Their journey covered 16,000 miles, passed through 14 different countries, and took about 18 months. I was privileged to meet with them in my office and present them a letter of accomplishment to commemorate their adventurous spirit.
These two have such a motivating story and act as an inspiration to us all. You can learn more about their journey here.
Mayor Sullivan with cyclists Christiana and Tauru.
Report Every Dangerous Driver
Please join the Anchorage Police Department for a community rally this Friday evening at the West High Auditorium as we recognize local victims and families affected by impaired driving and take a stand as we work together to create safer streets in Anchorage.
Where: West High Auditorium
When: Friday, August 16 from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.
The Anchorage Police Department will be joining the community in a rally to show support to the victims and their families of dangerous driving. During the event, Police Chief Mark Mew will announce APD's latest plans to ramp up DUI enforcement and involve citizens in a community-wide effort to reduce drunk and dangerous driving incidents in Anchorage. Other Guest Speakers will include Nancy Bidwell, Founder of the Forget Me Not Mission and ASD Superintendent Ed Graff. A candlelight vigil will also be held at the end of the rally to honor victims of dangerous driving.
UMED Improvement Project
UMED Transit and Pedestrian Improvements Phase 3 is a project continuing efforts to provide safer and more efficient transit and pedestrian mobility within the University and Medical District of Anchorage.
This project constructed a separated sidewalk/trail on the north side of Providence Drive from the UAA Library to Elmore Road. Project included landscaping, lighting, and bus stop improvements.
Mountain View Library Project
Through a partnership with the Food Bank of Alaska, the Mountain View Neighborhood Library has regularly started serving full meals at programs to all patrons under the age of 18 beginning in the summer of 2011.
Click here to read an article about this vital program.
Cat Adoption Day
Anchorage Animal Care and Control Center is currently holding a Price is Right Discounted Cat Adoption Event. This Wednesday through Sunday, adopters can spin the discount price wheel to determine whether their new cat will be adopted for $10, $15, or $20. For more information, contact AACCC at 343-8122 or go to www.muni.org/animal.
Anchorage Centennial Update
The Alaska Humanities Forum announced this week that it will receive $500,000 from Rasmuson Foundation over two years to support Anchorage Centennial Projects commemorating the 100th anniversary of Anchorage in July 2015.
We are so grateful for the continued support that the Rasmuson Foundation has provided for our community.
