Good morning, Anchorage.

FashionPact on Lake Otis is collecting $25 gift cards for foster teens in partnership with AK Child and Family.

The boutique’s angel tree will display requests until all are claimed, offering teens a chance to shop this holiday season.

Jerry Laktonen, a self-taught Alutiiq artist and fisherman turned carver, won the Distinguished Artist Award from the Rasmuson Foundation + earning a $50,000 grant for his work reviving traditional ceremonial carvings.

His win highlights cultural leadership and artistic contributions to the community.

Anchorage remains locked in a persistent cold snap after a warmer November as high pressure has shifted and an Arctic trough brings dry, below-normal temperatures that are expected to last for several weeks; experts say little fresh snow is likely over the next two weeks.

Anchorage officials signed an updated Community Wildfire Protection Plan Tuesday at the Fire Department Training Center, setting a framework for wildfire prevention, fuel reduction, evacuation planning + emergency response coordination.

The plan recommended a dedicated wildfire division to help safeguard residents from growing wildfire risks.

Matanuska-Susitna Borough declared disaster after hurricane-force gusts from Dec.

5-9 damaged homes, knocked down power lines, and shut local utilities. Crews repaired outages while officials requested state aid to help residents, businesses, and public facilities recover.

Federal fishery managers will keep the Bering Sea pollock catch limit at 1.375 million metric tons for next season—this decision follows survey data that shows a one-third decline in older fish.

The North Pacific Fishery Management Council made the call in Anchorage on Dec. 9, and the U.S. Department of Commerce will review it before the Jan. 20 season opening.

The Enhanced Premium Tax Credit (ePTC), which helps Alaskans pay for health insurance, is set to expire by the end of 2025, risking doubled costs for self-employed, hourly workers, seasonal employees, and business owners.

Congress must act soon to extend the credit, which also supports those recently released from incarceration.

UAA professor Hartley said he continues walking in Anchorage because it improves his health and offers him a chance to experience the city at a slower pace despite the risks.

Three new names and two moments were announced Tuesday as inductees into the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame, honoring key contributors in Alaska sports.

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.