In October, the convention and trade show space in Anchorage Alaska, increased 300 percent with the official ribbon cutting and grand opening of the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center. Two days of events, activities and entertainment gave some northern exposure to this new, $111 million, 200,0000-square-foot meeting venue. Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich with Julie Saupe, President & CEO of the Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau, “cut the banner ribbon” Alaska Style—on a dog sled! (photograph by Cathryn Posey)

Rosey Rush, 4th Grader from Chugach Optional School, singing the National Anthem at the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center Ribbon Cutting and Cultural Blessing ceremony. (photograph by Cathryn Posey)

(left to right) Julie Saupe, President & CEO, Steve Silverstein, Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau, Board President, Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau and Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich at the Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center Ribbon Cutting and Cultural Blessing.  (photograph by Cathryn Posey)

Alberta Stephan, Elder of the Village of Eklutna  conducts the Cultural Blessing at the the Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center Ribbon Cutting and Cultural Blessing ceremonies. (photograph by Cathryn Posey)

Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich and Tennys Owens, Project Manager, Co-Planner and Coordinator of the Anchorage 50th Anniversary of Statehood Celebration, dedicated the  "Alaska History Walk: A Journey of Statehood" at the Linny Pacillo Parking Garage in the Anchorage Civic & Convention Center District. The "Alaska History Walk", commemorates Alaska’s 50 years of statehood (Alaska became a state in 1959). Key events in Alaska’s history are outlined in "Alaska History Walk" booklets, available at the Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau Downtown Visitor Information Center. (photograph by Cathryn Posey)

Alaska History Walk Dedication at the Dena'ina Center. The Alaska History Walk: A Journey of Statehood, features 16 intricately designed bronze plaques (photograph by Cathryn Posey)