Author: The Tundra Drums Staff

The Tundra Drums Staff is a team of writers and editors who are passionate about bringing you the latest and most reliable news from Alaska and around the world. We make sure each story is easy to understand, clear, and based on trustworthy sources. Our goal is to keep you informed with news that matters and helps you stay connected to the world.

bark in the park 2

Bark in the Park returned this past weekend as a successful Alaska community event, bringing together dog owners, families, volunteers, and animal advocates for a day focused on outdoor recreation and pet adoption. Hosted by Alaska State Parks in partnership with the Mat-Su Trails Association, the event highlighted Alaska’s strong connection to its trail system while promoting responsible pet ownership and local animal adoption efforts. Attendees enjoyed a lively atmosphere filled with dogs, community interaction, and local vendors, all set against the backdrop of Alaska’s scenic parklands. Organizers credited the event’s success to the collaboration of volunteers, partner organizations, participating…

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closed 1

The Dalton Highway remains closed as of Saturday as crews continue responding to severe winter weather, blizzard conditions, and ongoing avalanche risk across the North Slope. According to the latest roadway update, conditions remain dynamic, and travel is not advised. Officials say intermittent closures are expected to continue as crews work to restore safe travel conditions. Atigun Pass Update Atigun Pass was closed overnight due to deteriorating weather. One lane has since been temporarily opened to allow existing traffic to move through the pass. Once vehicles have cleared the area, the roadway will be closed again for avalanche mitigation operations.…

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terrorist

A viral social media post circulating on Monday has sparked global attention after claiming that a civilian intervened during a violent incident near Bondi, allegedly preventing further casualties. However, Australian authorities have not confirmed the details described in the post. The widely shared post praises a man identified as Ahmed al Ahmed, claiming he confronted and disarmed an attacker during chaos at the scene before being injured himself. The post further alleges the presence of multiple attackers and the use of firearms. As of publication, New South Wales Police have not released any official statement confirming these claims, including the…

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Snow 1

Alaska State Parks has issued a winter storm update following significant overnight snowfall in the Fairbanks region. Approximately 9 inches of snow accumulated across the area, prompting the National Weather Service to continue a Winter Storm Warning through 1:00 a.m. AKST on Saturday. Blizzard conditions are expected to persist. Forecast details indicate: Officials warn that travel throughout the region may be treacherous and potentially life-threatening, especially as blowing snow and ice reduce visibility and roadway stability. Alaska State Parks Impact — Fairbanks & Delta Areas All state park facilities in the Fairbanks and Delta areas remain unplowed, including parking areas,…

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public hosting

Rise & Represent Alaska has announced an upcoming information session for residents interested in becoming more involved in shaping the state’s future. The session will be held on December 30, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., and registration is now open. The organization, which focuses on community engagement and leadership development, is inviting Alaskans to learn more about its programs and opportunities during the event. The session aims to provide an overview of Rise & Represent’s mission, community initiatives, and ways participants can contribute to decision-making efforts in their local areas. Alsio Read: Trump Administration Layoffs Hit Alaska Public Lands Residents are…

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ESA 1

A recent social media post from Earthjustice highlights the organization’s concerns regarding a proposal by the Trump administration to revise how the Endangered Species Act (ESA) defines “harm.” According to the visual statement released by Earthjustice, the proposed revision would alter the interpretation of harm by excluding habitat destruction from the definition. The group says such a change could impact how protections are enforced for threatened and endangered wildlife. The post suggests that removing habitat destruction from the harm definition could allow an increase in industrial activities in areas crucial to vulnerable species. Earthjustice argues that damage to a species’…

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utility

A national climate and energy advocacy organization has released a social media graphic drawing attention to rising utility costs. The image, posted by Climate Power, states that utility prices have increased by 13% under former President Donald Trump. The post features a winter scene of snow-covered vehicles and roadways, alongside the caption, “Happy holidays, right?” The organization did not include additional context or data sources within the graphic itself. Climate Power frequently publishes digital content focused on energy costs, climate policy, and environmental issues. The post is part of an ongoing series in which the group highlights economic and energy-related…

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Alaska-budget-landscape

Anchorage, AK (Dec 11, 2025) — Tom Begich issued the following statement today in response to the Governor’s early release of FY2027 budget highlights: “I appreciate the Governor releasing his intentions early. But once again, he is signaling a full Permanent Fund Dividend without addressing how we will fund the basic services Alaskans count on. The dividend matters because it helps many families make ends meet. But it has to be part of a responsible plan, not something that forces cuts to schools, public safety, or healthcare.” A Responsible, Transparent Fiscal Approach The preliminary outline does not yet show how…

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Storm-recovery-in-coastal-Alaska

December 12, 2025DR-4893-AK NR-008FEMA News Desk: (425) 487-4610Email: fema-r10-newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Under the direction of United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, FEMA has obligated over $3 million in emergency housing funds to support Alaskans displaced by severe storms, flooding, and remnants of Typhoon Halong, October 8-13, 2025. The assistance, provided under FEMA’s Public Assistance program, includes $2,971,062 for non-congregate sheltering. Non-congregate sheltering allows displaced survivors to stay in hotel rooms. This form of sheltering offers survivors privacy as they work toward their long-term recovery. The assistance also includes $410,565 for congregate or group sheltering. Local and Tribal governments,…

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tesla charging station

While electric vehicle use remains limited in the immediate Nenana area, officials noted that the technology is advancing quickly, and establishing reliable charging infrastructure is essential for long-term transportation planning. The new Supercharger site is expected to support both local users and travelers driving through the region. In addition to expanding infrastructure, the project will contribute lease revenue and sales tax income to the municipality. Local officials also highlighted secondary economic benefits, as EV drivers charging their vehicles will be within walking distance of nearby businesses during both summer and winter months. Installation of the station was completed by Legacy…

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bark in the park 1

Alaska State Parks is reminding Mat-Su residents that Bark in the Park will be held tomorrow, Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Finger Lake State Recreation Area. The annual community event invites pet owners to bring their dogs for a festive winter gathering featuring seasonal activities and local partner support. Planned attractions include holiday photos with Santa, hot beverages, a warming fire, and human gift items provided by participating organizations. Dogs from Mat-Su Borough Animal Care will be available for adoption during the event. Attendees can also enjoy raffle prizes and giveaways from local…

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women riffle

Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Alaska has opened registration for its upcoming Women’s Rimfire Rifle Club, a four-week program scheduled for Tuesdays in January. The course is designed to offer structured, target-style shooting practice for women interested in gaining confidence and experience with rimfire rifles. Sessions will take place on January 6, 13, 20, and 27 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the ADF&G Indoor Shooting Range in Fairbanks. Participants are required to attend all four sessions. The registration fee for the program is $55. Attendees may bring their own firearm or borrow one from the event’s equipment fleet. A Hunter…

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