Good morning, Anchorage.

Anchorage local adventurer Dick Griffith (98) died Tuesday at home; he trekked over 10,000 miles across Alaska, the Canadian Arctic, Mexico and Asia during a storied career.

He pioneered packrafting and is remembered for his humor, perseverance and lasting impact on our community.

Anchorage radio station KWHL held its 31st annual Toys for Tots broadcast at Midtown Mall, collecting $25,000 and 1,000 toys to support children during the holiday season.

Organizers say the event helps create lasting memories for families in need.

LaFrance administration said the Anchorage Mushing District arch exemplifies downtown revitalization— a key part of the city's ongoing upgrade.

Officials expect the project to boost community pride and enhance local landmarks.

Contango Ore may develop an underground mine at Johnson Tract, about 120 miles southwest of Anchorage, on Native land surrounded by Lake Clark National Park and Preserve.

The project—if advanced—could provide billions in revenue but raises concerns among fishermen, conservationists and local lodge owners about beluga habitat and fishing impacts.

The Alaska Zoo lights up the holidays with a magical winter wonderland (23 acres) in Anchorage that showcases custom light displays, an expanded dinosaur exhibit and a Pac-Man feature.

Zoo Lights will remain open throughout the holiday season.

Anchorage School District expects a $56 million revenue loss in its 2027 budget because enrollment drops and Medicaid reimbursements have fallen, prompting a planned reduction of 32 teaching posts.

It holds a community meeting today at Bartlett High School for input on potential budget cuts + program adjustments.

The State of Alaska settled with Juul Labs for $5.8M to end a five-year legal battle over youth-targeted vaping ads; the agreement mandates that half of the funds will support tobacco prevention + consumer protection programs with the first payment coming this month.

The federal heating assistance program kept benefits flowing during the shutdown for thousands of Alaskans in rural and tribal communities.

State officials confirmed carryover funds maintained the program—ensuring residents did not face delays until new November funding arrived.

On Friday, the CDC advisory committee voted to drop the universal hepatitis B vaccine recommendation for newborns, a change that local health experts say may risk Alaska Native children who benefit from early immunization — tribal health organizations plan to keep vaccinating despite the federal move.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks volleyball team swept their in-state rival in the NCAA DII Tournament by winning three straight sets 25 to 21, 25 to 18, and 25 to 15 on Thursday.

The win extended a five-game streak and sets up a next game at 6 p.m. AKT against host Point Loma.

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.

Winter Solstice Festival

5-8 p.m. — Cuddy Family Midtown Park — Free entry — Celebrate the shortest day of the year with winter activities, warm festivities, and holiday cheer.

West Anchorage High School Basketball Game

6:00 – 7:15 PM — West Anchorage High School — Free entry — Catch an exciting girls basketball matchup at the local high school.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

8:30-9:30 p.m. — 49th State Brewing - Anchorage — $38 — Experience a magical evening of Christmas carols performed by a string quartet in candlelight.

Alaska Winter Survival Day Camp

10 AM – 3 PM — Anchorage Museum — Check website for pricing — Engage in fun S.T.E.A.M activities exploring survival in Alaskan winters.

New Year's Eve in Anchorage 2025-2026

7-9 p.m. — Chinook — Free entry — Celebrate the New Year with fireworks and live music in Anchorage's downtown area.