Residents of the Lower Matanuska Valley are being warned of dangerous winds this weekend, while Anchorage police investigate an alleged emergency vehicle impersonator. Meanwhile, a Wasilla doctor case has prompted a state board review, teachers protested stalled contracts, Alaska Airlines expanded service from Anchorage, and community groups prepare for holiday events.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
High Wind Watch for Lower Mat-Su
The National Weather Service in Anchorage issued a High Wind Watch for the Lower Matanuska Valley, including Palmer, Wasilla and Big Lake, effective from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon.
Forecasters say northeast winds of 25 to 40 mph are expected, with gusts potentially reaching 60 to 75 mph. The strongest winds are anticipated Saturday evening through early Sunday morning.
High winds could move loose debris, damage property, cause power outages and make travel difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items and monitor updated forecasts and warnings.
APD Investigates Emergency Vehicle Impersonation
The Anchorage Police Department reported that at approximately 4:27 p.m. on December 8, an APD Traffic Unit sergeant stopped to assist a disabled motorist traveling southbound on the Glenn Highway near the Eklutna Flats.
The disabled motorist appeared to be accompanied by an emergency vehicle displaying flashing red and blue lights. Further investigation revealed the vehicle, a white Ford F-250, was not a legitimate emergency vehicle.
Police arrested Joshua Davis, 28, who was later released on his own recognizance on a charge of impersonating a public servant. Davis also received citations for unauthorized use of flashing lights, misuse of plates, and no proof of insurance. The vehicle was impounded for further investigation.
APD is asking anyone who may have seen a white Ford F-250 using emergency-style lights in Anchorage or the Mat-Su Valley to contact Traffic Unit Sgt. David Noll at david.noll@anchorageak.gov. The case number is 25-37810.
Wasilla Doctor Case Sparks State Review
The arrest and death of Dr. Ryan McDonough, a Wasilla cardiologist and former member of the Alaska State Medical Board, has raised questions about how Alaska screens board appointees.
McDonough, 46, was charged earlier this month with 10 felony counts of possession of child sexual abuse material following an investigation by Task Force Dawnbreaker, a multi-agency unit that includes the Alaska Bureau of Investigation, Anchorage Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.
McDonough had been appointed to the Alaska State Medical Board by Governor Mike Dunleavy in August 2025 and resigned in November, prior to the public announcement of his arrest. State officials later confirmed that Alaska does not screen board appointees for ongoing criminal investigations, prompting renewed calls for changes to the vetting process.
On December 13, McDonough died after his Wasilla home burned down. Alaska State Troopers confirmed his remains were found in the debris. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Anchorage Teachers Protest Contract Stalemate
Hundreds of Anchorage educators participated in street-corner protests Thursday evening, calling attention to stalled contract negotiations between the Anchorage Education Association and the Anchorage School District.
Teachers cited concerns over pay, classroom conditions and staffing levels, urging district leaders to resume negotiations as talks remain at an impasse.
Alaska Airlines Expands Anchorage Service
Alaska Airlines announced it will add seven new nonstop routes from its hubs in Anchorage and Portland, expanding travel options beginning in spring and summer 2026.
From Anchorage, the airline will introduce nonstop service to Boise, Boston and Spokane, bringing the total number of nonstop destinations from Anchorage to 17 in the Lower 48 and Hawai‘i during peak summer season, the most the airline has ever offered.
New routes from Portland will include Bellingham, Everett/Paine Field, Pasco, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Tickets for the new flights are now available.
Beans Café Seeks Holiday Volunteers
Beans Café is seeking volunteers during the week of Christmas to help prepare and serve more than 6,000 meals to community members in need. A limited number of volunteer shifts remain available on Christmas Eve. Those interested can sign up or learn more at Beans Café or call (907) 276-5600.A limited number of volunteer shifts remain available on Christmas Eve, according to organizers.
Winter Solstice Festival Returns Friday, December 19 (Today!)
Anchorage Parks and Recreation will host its annual Winter Solstice Festival on Friday, December 19, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Cuddy Family Midtown Park.
The free event will include ice skating set to holiday music, fire pits with hot chocolate, horse-drawn wagon rides, Santa’s reindeer and a possible visit from Santa Claus. The celebration marks the approach of longer days, with the return of sunlight just weeks away.
