A new forecast from the Alaska Department of Revenue projects a $200 million deficit for the current fiscal year. That’s on top of a $1.6 billion deficit for next fiscal year under Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s proposed budget.

More than 100 people participated in this year’s Project Homeless Connect event.

The fabric retailer announced last month that it will be closing all stores nationwide. The closure comes as a hit to crafters in Soldotna, who say the store is one of their only local options for crafting supplies.

The newly-opened mercantile sells a variety of products from small businesses around the country. It'll also soon be home to a new coffee shop and cafe.

The Alaska State House passed a bill this week that ups the amount of money developers have to work with. Stakeholders say the project will revitalize aging infrastructure and expand regional economic opportunities.

The City of Soldotna's Storefront Improvement Program offers up to $7,500 to cover 50% of building facade improvements. More than 20 local businesses over the last decade have received funding through the program.

The district is currently short $17 million if it wants to operate next fiscal year with the same amount of employees, programs and facilities as it does right now.

After months of construction and planning, Soldotna's newest bakery is open. The Farmhouse Bakery and Deli began as a small stand that now specializes in breads, cookies, deli sandwiches and more.

As of last week, the Sunrise is sold.

The Soldotna Chamber of Commerce will host its second annual community scholarship fair this Saturday. The fair brings local scholarship providers together under one roof.