The Statute and notice identified in the letter: AS.09.30.070 (b)says:
(b) Except when the court finds that the parties have agreed otherwise and except as provided by AS 45.05.111 (d), prejudgment interest accrues from the day process is served on the defendant or the day the defendant received written notification that an injury has occurred and that a claim may be brought against the defendant for that injury, whichever is earlier. The written notification must be of a nature that would lead a prudent person to believe that a claim will be made against the person receiving the notification, for personal injury, death, or damage to property.
http://www.touchngo.com/lglcntr/akstats/Statutes/Title09/Chapter30/Section070.htm
Joe is a pawn. It's the publisher that has the deep pockets and perhaps a connection to a bigger agenda.