A joint Kenai and Soldotna Chamber luncheon housed a debate between two candidates for Kenai Peninsula Borough Mayor, Linda Farnsworth-Hutchings and incumbent Charlie Pierce.

In a release from the City of Kenai, the event is billed “The World’s Most Responsible Fishing Tournament.” The Kenai Silver Salmon Derby is celebrated as a new kind of fishing tournament that reduces selective fishing practices that lead to catch-and-release injuries which compromise the health of the silver salmon population in the Kenai River.

The intent of this law is to further ensure that both law enforcement and the Office of Children’s Services are made aware of sexual abuse allegations when an incident occurs. All Alaska State Troopers and Alaska Wildlife Troopers will receive training, through the Office of Children’s Services, regarding the mandatory reporting.

Of the 1,715 citations issued, 1,002 were issued for speeding, and 82 issued for seat-belt or other occupant restraint violations.

Alaska has consistently had one of the highest suicide rates in the nation since the National Violent Death Reporting System began in 2003, and the incidence of suicide in Alaska has increased considerably in recent years.

For those who missed the first round, KPB advises against being discouraged, as the second round will open September 14 at 8:00 a.m., lasting until September 25 at 5:00 p.m.

There are currently 3,635 active cases of COVID-19 among Alaska residents. 196 of those cases are residents of the Kenai Peninsula, a reduction of eight active cases from this same time a week ago. Among the current active cases, 65 are in Soldotna, 60 in Kenai, 30 in Homer, 16 in Sterling, and five in Seward.

Shannon McCarthy of the Alaska Department of Transportation has details: “Right now, we have a lot of clearing and geotechincal work going on. Our clearing crews are working on it – they’ve cleared about 95 acres out of the 140 planned acres of clearing. They’re working west from Juneau Creek. We also have a drilling crew working in the area.”