Alaska

Wayne & Wanda: I’m in Anchorage, my co-worker’s in Fairbanks. How can I tactfully ask her out?

Published

2 years ago

August 25, 2024

Wayne & Wanda: I’m in Anchorage, my co-worker’s in Fairbanks. How can I tactfully ask her out?

Dear Wayne and Wanda,

I work with “Michelle.” We’ve gotten to know each other pretty well over the past few months, and I’ve found myself really drawn to her. We are part of the same large team and peers — meaning, it’s not like she’s my supervisor, or vice versa. She’s smart, funny, and we get along great. I’m stoked every time we get to partner up on a project because her work is amazing, and it sounds cheesy but we really do inspire each other. I think there’s a possibility that she might be interested in me too, but here’s the catch: I’m in Anchorage, she’s in Fairbanks.

I’ve been going back and forth on how to approach this. On one hand, I don’t want to come off too strong or make things awkward by suggesting that I travel to see her when we’re not even dating. On the other hand, I don’t want to miss the chance to get to know her better outside of work.

What do you think is the best way to ask her out without making her feel pressured or uncomfortable? Should I suggest a virtual date first, like a video chat over coffee or drinks? Or do you think it would be better to keep it light and casual, maybe suggesting we meet up if she’s ever in town, or if I find myself in her city for work or another reason?

I guess what I’m really asking is: How do I move forward in a way that respects her boundaries (and I have no idea what those are), but also lets her know that I’m genuinely interested in getting to know her better? I appreciate any guidance you can offer. Navigating this new territory is a bit daunting, but I really don’t want to let this opportunity slip by without at least trying. I’m not the most experienced with dating. I’ve always put career first. So I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

Wanda says:

Anchorage to Fairbanks, eh? What’s 359 miles between friends and potentially more-than-friends? To be specific, it’s a six-plus-hour drive or a chunk of Alaska Airlines miles and a few hours of combined airports and flight times. Heck, I rarely drive south of Tudor Road unless I’m leaving town, so I get it. Distance can be daunting, especially in navigating a potential new connection.

Let’s assume, though, that you’re reading the room accurately here, and Michelle likes you back. She’s probably wondering the same things you are. How to spend time with you when you live hundreds of miles apart? How to initiate a hangout without freaking you out or creeping in on work boundaries? And what are your work boundaries? And do you like her too? Someone has to make a move here. Tag, you’re it.

Personally, I think a virtual date sounds super awkward. Might as well make it an agenda item after a staff meeting, you know? Since you both apparently travel between cities for your jobs, target the next time you’re both in the same physical spot, and ask her to join you for drinks after work — or dinner, or coffee — just something that involves only the two of you.

You’re overthinking this simple first date because you don’t live in the same city. But it’s no different than asking out a co-worker who lives down the road. The only difference is, if it goes well, then you have the adventure of navigating a long-distance relationship.

Wayne says:

Ah, love in the Golden Heart City … makes me feel all tingly. Oh wait, that’s my freezing extremities! Dip me in the hot springs ASAP!

OK, this isn’t business, it’s personal, so stop sitting at your laptop and waiting for her to drop a heart emoji over a witty Teams chat pun and get your lovelorn butt up to the Far North for a long weekend to check the temperature — of her feelings about you and the Interior weather forecast so you can pack/dress appropriately.

Plan your trip as if she’s not going to be involved because she might not be. Rent a car and get a room, make a schedule of activities that fit your style and the season: the museum, hot springs, northern lights and skiing, Midnight Sun and hiking, downtown partying and floating the Chena, whatever. Then, when everything’s together, tell her that you’re coming to town in a few weeks and would love to get her advice on your itinerary and if anything critical is missing … and that you’d also love to take her out to dinner at a place of her choosing so you can catch up.

That’s an easy way to strike up a conversation that isn’t about work, and you’ll also likely get a very solid vibe check from her response. She might rewrite your entire trip and want to play tour guide; she might make up an excuse about having to run her dog team and shoot you down entirely; she might meet you somewhere in between and catch you for coffee or lunch. You won’t know until you act and ask. You’ll feel relief in finally shooting your shot, get some clarity on her interest, and have good times in the Land of the Midnight Fun no matter what she decides.

[Wayne and Wanda: The date was great, but was it business or pleasure?]

[Wayne and Wanda: My budding romance has been a fantasy. How do I bring it into reality?]

[Wayne and Wanda: My co-workers’ gossipy, flirty behavior is driving me up our cubicle walls]

[Ask Sahaj: I don’t want advice from my friend who’s never been in a relationship]

[Wayne and Wanda: The person I’m dating lets her out-of-control dog run wild off leash, and it drives me nuts]

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Alaska

This Alaska cruise port lets you experience the wild, untouched state

Published

2 hours ago

May 15, 2026

Press Room

This Alaska cruise port lets you experience the wild, untouched state

At Icy Strait Point, visitors can spot whales and eagles while supporting a small Alaska community.

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah, Alaska, offers a rare kind of cruise stop — one where nature, culture, and community take center stage. It was also specifically developed with tourists in mind.

Built on Huna Tlingit land near Hoonah, this privately owned destination was designed to spread visitors across 23,000 acres of wilderness rather than overwhelm the town. The result is a place where travelers can see bald eagles, sea lions, and crashing waves instead of traffic and tour buses.

Beyond its dramatic scenery, Icy Strait Point generates about $20 million in annual economic impact for a community of roughly 900 people, supporting hundreds of jobs, making it a model for how tourism can benefit residents while preserving Alaska’s character.

Why it matters

Located on Huna Tlingit land, Icy Strait Point shows how tourism can support small communities while preserving their identity. Places like this reflect a broader American story of stewardship, self-determination, and economic opportunity.

According to Icy Strait Point’s Senior Vice President, Tyler Hackman, the destination generates “$20 million a year of positive economic impact on a community of 900 people,” creating jobs while allowing Hoonah to remain distinctly itself.

What to see today

Unlike many cruise ports, Icy Strait Point feels remarkably undeveloped.

“This place is mostly untouched,” Hackman said. “When a ship comes into a dock here, somebody can be standing on the top deck of the ship, and you don’t see a parking lot, you don’t see a bus, you don’t see a vehicle.”

Visitors can take a gondola to the mountaintop for sweeping views, then follow Hackman’s advice and head to the beach in front of the historic cannery. There, they can search for shells, dip their hands in Alaska’s icy waters, and take in snowcapped peaks on the horizon — and maybe spot a humpback whale or an orca.

Ask a local

For a sweet stop with a bigger purpose, visit Lil’ Gen’s Mini-Doughnuts.

Operated by The Salvation Army, the shop serves warm mini-doughnuts to cruise visitors all summer. The impact extends far beyond dessert: Hackman said that in 2025, profits from the shop helped fund “$130,000 worth of food to the local community.”

It’s a delicious way to support Hoonah residents directly. Try the lemon sugaring.

Plan your visit

Best time: May through September during the Alaska cruise season.
Hours/admission: Open seasonally. Access is included with most cruise itineraries.
Getting there: Primarily reached by cruise ship from Southeast Alaska itineraries.
Learn more: https://icystraitpoint.com/

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Alaska

Governor Dunleavy Names Stephen Cox his new Counsel to the Governor – Mike Dunleavy

Published

14 hours ago

May 14, 2026

Press Room

Governor Mike Dunleavy today announced the appointment of Stephen Cox as his new Counsel to the Governor. The appointment comes after the legislature’s decision to not confirm him as attorney general, despite his extensive legal and public policy experience and proven record of defending Alaska’s interests both at home and on the national level. Cox’s responsibilities will be to advise Governor Dunleavy on a wide range of legal, regulatory, and constitutional matters affecting the State of Alaska.

Governor Dunleavy also appointed Cori Mills acting attorney general for the Alaska Department of Law. Mills has been with the department for 14 years and most recently served as deputy attorney general.

“Stephen Cox has a strong understanding of Alaska law and the challenges facing our state,” said Governor Dunleavy. “His experience, professionalism, and commitment to public service make him a valuable asset as Counsel to the Governor. I look forward to working with Stephen as we continue advancing policies that strengthen Alaska’s economy, uphold the rule of law, and serve the people of our state.”

As Counsel to the Governor, Cox will continue to work closely with the Department of Law and other executive branch departments to provide counsel on policy initiatives, legislation, and executive actions.

“I am honored to serve Governor Dunleavy and the people of Alaska in this new role,” said Stephen Cox. “I look forward to continue supporting the administration’s efforts to promote responsible resource development, governance and opportunities for Alaskans across the state.”

Cox assumes his new role effective today.

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Alaska

Why Juneau should be on every Alaska traveler’s bucket list

Published

1 day ago

May 14, 2026

Press Room

Why Juneau should be on every Alaska traveler’s bucket list

Juneau blends towering glaciers, the Tongass National Forest and rich Indigenous culture.

Juneau, Alaska, is the only U.S. state capital not accessible by road — a remoteness that adds to its magic and appeal.

Nestled between mountains, rainforest, and the waters of the Inside Passage, Juneau combines Alaska Native heritage, Gold Rush history, and some of the state’s most spectacular scenery.

Visitors can watch humpback whales surface offshore, ride a tram above downtown, stand face-to-face with or even on Mendenhall Glacier, a river of ice flowing from the vast Juneau Icefield. Surrounded by the Tongass National Forest — the world’s largest temperate rainforest — Juneau offers a quintessential Alaska experience where nature feels immense, and adventure begins just minutes from the cruise dock.

Why Juneau matters

Long before prospectors arrived in search of gold, the area now known as Juneau was home to the Áak’w Kwáan, whose name for this place — Áakʼw, often translated as “little lake” — reflects a deep connection to the surrounding land and water.

Russia later expanded into Alaska through the fur trade, bringing Orthodox missionaries, new trade networks, and profound cultural change to Indigenous communities across the region. Though Juneau rose to prominence during the Gold Rush and became the territorial capital after the United States purchased Alaska in 1867, the city still bears traces of both worlds.

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Juneau offers visitors a richer understanding of America’s layered history — one that’s shaped by Native stewardship, Russian influence, and the enduring resilience of southeast Alaska’s Indigenous peoples.

What to see today

The star attraction is Mendenhall Glacier, a 13.6-mile-long glacier that descends from the Juneau Icefield into a turquoise lake.

Easy trails lead to roaring Nugget Falls, while boardwalks along Steep Creek offer chances to spot spawning salmon and black bears. Back downtown, colorful floatplanes skim the harbor and the Mount Roberts Tramway lifts visitors above the city for sweeping views of Gastineau Channel and the surrounding mountains.

Ask a local

One of Juneau’s most whimsical attractions is Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure, tucked into the Tongass rainforest just outside downtown.

Locals and visitors alike love the upside-down trees known as “Flower Towers” — massive spruce trunks planted root-side up, bursting with colorful blooms. The display is a unique (and accidental) creation of master gardener Steve Bowhay.

It’s an eccentric sight that feels uniquely Alaskan, blending lush rainforest scenery with a touch of horticultural imagination.