Brian,

Thank you for remaining positive under these trying circumstances!

Here's some background that may explain a few of the puzzling comments on this article. The Alaska State Troopers (AST) are pulling back from routine local policing in the Girdwood area due to budget constraints. In April the residents of Girdwood voted to raise their property taxes and pay for local police protection. Similar issues are playing out all over Alaska, and the internet is buzzing with commentary. I wish it wasn't showing up here.

Obviously the search for your brother has been a high priority for AST and the other involved organizations. I volunteered for a day on one of these searches last year, and I can assure you that the leaders were well-trained and well-organized. I hope Brad will be found, but unfortunately the wilderness sometimes just swallows people. 

Best wishes!