AK Mags, help! Spending a month in Anchorage

What's up guys, first time poster, long time lurker.

I'm going to be working in Anchorage for the month of Feb. I'm planning to do as much boarding as possible during my stay, with my time split between Alyeska, some backcountry, and a few heli/cat trips.

1) How has the season been so far? I've heard that it hasn't been great, but hopefully things will be picking up soon.

2) I'm planning on renting a car for a month. Is 4wd necessary for my trips to Alyeska from Anchorage? I may end up going to Valdez as well. Is the extra cost of an SUV worth it, or can I get around safely in a regular car?

3) As an AK newbie, I'm looking to meet up with people in the area to show me the ropes. I'm 25, a strong snowboarder with some BC experience.

regular car is fine....if it has studs.

valdez is good. turnagain is getting better. hatcher's is hurting.

seasons been shitty alyeska so far around anchorage, its getting better apparently valdeaz has been great. check the alaska ski conditions thread on the telemarktips.com forum