It’s time for Page Two: News that might not make the front page for Monday April 6, 2026.
Alaska State Fair President Jason Ortiz is the interim CEO of the Fair. He has taken on the responsibilities following the departure of Jeff Curtis. Former CEO Curtis left due to family health issues. Ortiz has served on the Fair Board of Directors for about nine years.
Ortiz praised Curtis as a “rock star CEO.” He noted the board is working to find a replacement. They have more than 80 applications to review. A background in fairs is helpful. However, Ortiz emphasized that leadership, vision, and the ability to unite staff and community are the top priorities.
Ortiz stated that the Fair’s operations are strong and stable. It is in its best financial position in its 90-year history. Preparation for the Fair this year continues at full speed even with the leadership transition. The Fair will celebrate 90 years alongside the 250th anniversary of our country.
Recent improvements to the fairgrounds include the new events center with restrooms near the Purple Gate and other upgrades
An upgrade to the Borealis Theater is coming. This redesign to the major concert venue of the Fair includes a larger stage, improved sound and visual capabilities, better seating sightlines, permanent restroom facilities, and expanded entry points to ease congestion.
The current venue has limitations for performers. Ortiz explained that major musical acts depend on modern infrastructure. The redesign will better meet performer requirements. It will draw a wider range of performers.
Construction on the Borealis Theater is expected to begin right after the Fair ends. Completion is targeted before next season.
Transportation and traffic flow remain ongoing challenges for the Fair, especially during large events. Ortiz noted the need for planning with local and state agencies to improve access. Possibilities include bike paths, transit options, and traffic studies.
A long-term project under consideration is a branded hotel and conference center on the fairgrounds. With over 300 acres and more than 280 days of annual events, the Fair draws over half a million visitors each year and contributes more than $50 million to Alaska’s economy.
Ortiz said a hotel could attract conferences currently held in Anchorage. This would further boost local businesses. He emphasized that any development would be designed to preserve Palmer’s small-town feel while expanding economic opportunities.
Ortiz recommends buying fair tickets online in advance for convenience. Season passes are a great value. He also encourages visitors to attend multiple days rather than trying to do everything in one day. This provides time to explore the wide variety of exhibits, performances, and activities beyond the headline attractions.
Finally, Ortiz offered a tip: purchase concert tickets directly from the official Fair website to avoid inflated prices from third-party sellers.
Get concert tickets and fair tickets at askastatefair.org.
The Alaska State Fair continues to evolve, blending tradition with new investments, while remaining a cornerstone of community life in the Mat-Su Valley.
This page 2 is a summary of the interview Mike Chmielewski did with Jason Ortiz on Valley Edition last week. The interview is on bigcabbageradio.org in Valley Edition under podcasts.
A Librarian’s Epilogue is tomorrow and Wednesday night at 7 p.m. at the Palmer Moose Lodge. Enjoy myths, memories, and magical endings in the story of Sally Gwin. She was Palmer’s first credentialed librarian in the 1980s. Tickets are at Eventbrite. This event from Grandmother Raven Productions is a benefit for the Palmer Public Library and the Palmer Historical Society.
The Mat-Su Borough Assembly meets tomorrow night at 6 p.m. in the Assembly Chambers.
Page 2 airs weekdays at 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11:50 a.m., and 6 p.m.
Tune in at 89.7 in Palmer, 89.5 in Sutton, 88.3 in Chickaloon and Glacier View or online at bigcabbageradio.org.
Please support Page 2 News. Donate today at bigcabbageradio.org.
This Page Two article was reported by Mike Chmielewski and produced by yours truly, Lee Henrikson. If you have an idea for a Page 2 topic, please email us at page2@radiofreepalmer.org.
That’s it for today and the news on Page Two on Monday April 6, 2026.