Pandemic Pioneers are those Alaskans who have found success despite the shutdowns during these challenging times.
The first featured pioneer is Kelsey Ingram, co-owner of Alaskan Soda Jerk. You might recognize Alaskan Soda Jerk from the State Fair, Bear Paw, the Kodiak Crab Festival, or any number of other events taking place during the summer in Alaska.
This summer, Kelsey had 23 events scheduled, and all but two were canceled or postponed due to the pandemic. But that didn’t stop him from keeping Alaskan Soda Jerk open and his staff employed. With some ingenuity and local partnerships, Kelsey managed to open up shop right on Old Seward Highway, bringing those classic sodas and milkshakes that we all love to Anchorage.
The biggest challenge facing Alaskan Soda Jerk this summer? Not the pandemic, but the Municipality of Anchorage’s permitting process. Having overcome those hurdles, Alaskan Soda Jerk is in business and at the Main Event Grill, on E 76th Ave by Mr. Prime Beef. There’s still time to get one last soda before they close for the winter!