The members from Juneau Alaska Music Matters, an organization for local youth performs on the Governor’s Mansion during a holiday open house on December. 12 2023. (Eric Stone/Alaska public media)



Gov. Mike Dunleavy welcomed crowds into his official residence on Tuesday to celebrate the annual open house for the holiday season, performing the typical politician’s job shake hands, pose for photos and holding baby dolls.

“Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas Happy New Year,” the journalist was quoted prior to the doors opening for the public.

And, as usual there was plenty of cookies available to share 21350 all.

Kenny Gallahorn, an equipment operator from Kotzebue and Kotzebue, complemented the spread.

“Anything chocolate is my absolute favorite,” he said.

He wasn’t the only person captivated by the variety of baked products.

People look at the food spread during an Annual Governor’s Mansion Open House in Juneau on December. 12 20, 2023. (Eric Stone, Alaska Public Media)

“The Russian tea cookies are amazing,” said Jai Ribao Jai Ribao, one of the Juneauite visit to the Governor’s Mansion for the first time.

“This is fantastic. I drive by this mansion each day during break time. It’s a blessing to finally take this trip,” he said.

However, Ribao was not just there to eat cookies. Also, the 79 lbs of brittle and toffee and the 57 pounds of chocolate, nor 50 pounds of Fudge.

He was at the event.

“My son is … performing the violin in the show. Therefore, I’m here as a supporter,” he said.

It was a great show. A group of musicians who are part of the community youth musical program Juneau Alaska Music Matters took some time to jam, performing classics such as “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” and “Jolly Old St. Nicholas” and obviously the state tune, “Alaska’s Flag.”

The Alaskan First Lady, Rose Dunleavy, was an avid fan.

“It’s simply wonderful to see everyone from Juneau once more,” she said. “It’s amazing. Beautiful music, beautiful house and beautiful people – it’s simply wonderful.”

Gov. Mike Dunleavy, flanked by Lieutenant. Governor. Nancy Dahlstrom, addresses reporters prior to the traditional Governor’s Mansion open house in Juneau on December. 12 2023. (Eric Stone/Alaska public media)

Her husband took a few moments to consider the future of 2024. He outlined a number of goals, among them improving education levels and lowering costs of living.

“We’re looking towards a wonderful season,” He said. “It’s quite turbulent all over the world however, here in Alaska I think we’re very fortunate. Also, Merry Christmas and happy Hanukkah, and a Happy New Year,” the governor said.