Good morning, Anchorage.

Alaska Airlines and the U.S. Marines collected 14,000 pounds of toys at the Alaska Air Cargo Hub near Ted Stevens International Airport, with the donations set to brighten the holidays for about 8,000 children statewide—organized as part of this year’s Toys for Tots drive.

Volunteers help ensure the gifts reach children in both rural and urban areas.

Anchorage Weekender recapped a Thursday program at the Anchorage Museum that featured research and a film on musher George Attla and listed seven events planned for this weekend, including a disaster relief fundraiser this evening at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, a benefit concert at Williwaw and a Brewery Brawl at O’Malley Sports Center, along with various holiday markets, a youth performance at the UAA Fine Arts Building, a community coffee meet-up in Wasilla, and a free concert on Sunday at the Performing Arts Center — each event offering a way for locals to join in the holiday celebrations and support community causes.

After a fire destroyed the Caribou Hotel on Wednesday, local organizations like the American Legion provided shelter for guests—while the hotel owner vowed to rebuild—ensuring support for those affected remains available.

University of Alaska President Pat Pitney said she will retire at the end of the spring term in May.

The Board of Regents hired WittKieffer to help choose her replacement while she focuses on student recruitment and retention until her departure—an important step for the university.

Last Tuesday night, solar flares produced unusually bright northern lights in Alaska—marked by deep red colors seen in Fairbanks and nearby areas.

University of Alaska Fairbanks Physics Professor Mark Conde said the flares also risked causing radio blackouts and data disruptions, and similar past events affected satellites.

Anchorage Fire Department is asking residents to review its draft Community Wildfire Protection Plan by completing an online survey and provide feedback on wildfire safety—comments will be accepted through the end of November.

Residents affected by last month’s typhoon met with state and federal agencies at Bettye Davis East High School to learn about recovery efforts, apply for aid, and discuss long-term plans including possible relocation—officials noted that a multi-stop resource center will open at the Egan Center on November 15 and 16 to offer further support.

Austin McDaniel from the Alaska State Troopers said Alaskans must check ice thickness before using frozen lakes and rivers because weak or rotten ice, along with snow on top, can make the surface dangerous early in the season & pose risks for ice fishing or skating.

The Municipality of Anchorage will update winter maintenance details on its website as needed.

KillBill Sax Concert

6:15-10:15 p.m. — Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center — Cost TBD — Experience the smooth sounds of saxophone from a local talent rooted in Anchorage.

After Hours Featuring Midnight Son & Kala Jenkins

7-9 p.m. — Momentum Studios — Ticketed event — Experience soulful music and captivating visual art from Anchorage's local talent.

Candlelight: 90s Unplugged

4-5 p.m. — 49th State Brewing - Anchorage — Tickets available — Experience the nostalgic tunes of the 90s played by a string quartet under candlelight.

Python for Scientists Training Class

Dec 8-12 — Frontier Safety And Supply, LLC — $2250 — Enhance your Python skills with hands-on training tailored for scientists.

Holiday Wreath Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Dimond Greenhouse — $45 per wreath — Create your own festive wreath using fresh cut greens for the holiday season.

The Snow Globe Run

11 AM – 1 PM — Peanut Farm — Check for entry fees — Lace up for a festive run, walk, or cheer along at this community winter event.