Guess I'll add a partial answer to my own question as I got a little info today. Since Alaska has gone to a new permit draw schedule and has changed some of the rules and systems for permits, they are a bit slower getting permits issued this spring.
I'm guessing that they are prioritizing for the earliest hunts first (not mine) and will get thru them as best they can.
I've been told to expect my permit possibly in July, for hunt that may start in October at the earliest.
Dang, its going to be hard to wait.