Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK) has announced that Norann Kriner, owner of Kriner’s Diner in Anchorage, Alaska, will be his guest at the upcoming State of the Union Address. The event is scheduled to take place on Tuesday evening in the U.S. House Chamber.
“Norann Kriner represents the very best of Alaska,” said Congressman Begich. “Alongside her late husband, Andy Kriner, Norann worked to build a small family business that became a cornerstone of the Anchorage community. The Working Families Tax Cuts have helped businesses like hers retain employees and support working families, and I am proud to have her as my guest at this year’s State of the Union.”
Kriner expressed gratitude for the invitation: “I’m incredibly honored to be Congressman Begich’s guest. After losing my husband in December of 2024, coming to work every day and seeing the faces of our customers and staff has meant more to me than I can put into words. Carrying on my husband’s legacy through generosity, hard work, and serving others is something I take to heart every single day. When I see our staff able to keep more of their hard-earned tips and support their own families, that’s personal to me. That’s why policies that support working families and small businesses matter so much in Alaska.”
Kriner’s Diner has been part of the Anchorage community since 2010. Together with her late husband of 45 years, Norann Kriner established the restaurant as a local fixture known for its welcoming environment and community involvement. Since Andy Kriner’s death in December 2024, Norann has continued managing the diner while upholding its traditions.
For over a decade, Kriner’s Diner has provided free meals on Thanksgiving Day for families in Anchorage. This tradition reflects both community spirit and commitment to supporting those in need during the holidays.
As a business owner operating in one of the most expensive states in terms of living costs, Kriner has experienced how tax policy changes—such as those included in recent Working Families Tax Cuts—have affected her ability to retain employees and provide financial stability for her staff through measures like No Tax on Tips.
Kriner’s experience highlights ongoing challenges faced by small businesses in Alaska and underscores debates about policy measures aimed at supporting workers and entrepreneurs across the state.
