KENYAN STUDENTS RECEIVE ALASKAN BOOKS FROM BRIGHT LIGHTS BOOK PROJECT
Contributed by Martha Owidhi
Jambo from Kenya! My name is Martha Owidhi, and I am a teacher at the Sheba Education Center in Nairobi, Kenya. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Bright Lights Book Project in Palmer, Alaska for their generous donation of books to our students.
We received these wonderful books about Alaska when our friend Brad visited us from Alaska. Over the past year, our students have developed a love for Alaska, writing notes to dog mushers on the Iditarod trail and even building a dog sled at our school.
Now, we are working toward attending the 2026 Iditarod race, a dream that has inspired and motivated our students. Asante (thank you) from all of us in Kenya! For more information visit www.kenyatoiditarod.com.
THE BRIGHT LIGHTS BOOK PROJECT: HAVE SUITCASES, WILL TRAVEL
Contributed by Alys Culhane, The Bright Lights Book Project
I sprang into action when I learned that in early March we had enough funding remaining in our Senate Appropriation Grant funding for two more village trips. In preparation for an upcoming March 24–28 trip to Nome and Elim, I contacted BLBP volunteers Pam Meekin and Pam Hucyk, who agreed to come along. I next boxed up approximately thirty boxes of books. Pete put shipping labels on them, and with assistance from Alex, a new volunteer, dropped the boxes off at the Palmer Post Office loading dock. They were destined for Nome and Elim schools and the Pingo Bakery. I next packed up eight suitcases, which I’d take to Nome and Elim. I included books from the Alaska Native Language Center in Fairbanks in the mix.
I generally breathe a sigh of relief when I board planes, but not this time. I sensed that I had major logistical challenges ahead of me.
The first was baggage-related. We were late checking in our suitcases, so one was put on standby. The NomeBeltz High School basketball team was returning to Nome. In the interim, the
team members and their family members had done some serious shopping.
The Nome airport baggage area is small, and so we three jostled for space.
Kastin Lie, who teaches at the City of Anvil Science Academy, picked up seven of our suitcases, and we took Pam Hucyk’s suitcase with us to the Aurora Inn, which is located on Front Street. We were fortunate in that the staff gave us a first-floor room.
Pam M and I left for the Anvil Science Academy early the next day, and Pam H later joined us. We conferred with Kastin before setting books out on the hallway tables. I subsequently gave three PowerPoint presentations in which the focus was on the BLBP. The semester curriculum was on motion, so I talked about the importance of wheels, showing the fifth and sixth graders an oversized book called Wheels in Motion, and about how wheels on suitcases changed airport travel. I also talked about shelf life in my final presentation and showed the students a book in which the pages were falling out. We concluded that I could put a rubber band around it and attach a note saying this book is readable.
The book fair was a huge success. One hundred-plus students conferred with
one another about the books that they self-selected. I, two students, and Lisa Leeper, the school principal, were also interviewed by a KNOM reporter.
At midday, we packed the suitcases, thanked all involved in our undertaking, and prepared to return to the hotel.
My advice for anyone who is going to spend any time at all in Nome is to rent a car. As we discovered, getting around by cab in a town that is spread out can be challenging. There’s also the likelihood that you’ll end up (as we were) being dependent upon your hosts. On Day #1, Kastin took the three of us to the airport, where we picked up the standby suitcase. She then dropped us off at our hotel. On Day #2, Angela, the school secretary, volunteered to be our chauffeur. She assisted us in loading our suitcases into her car, and then she took us to the local thrift store, where I filled a suitcase with children’s books. After, Angela dropped me off at the Nome Community Center, where I met with Executive Director Kim Bishop. The two Pams checked out the Nome gift shop.
Lastly, Angela dropped us off at Pingo Bakery, where I’d previously sent books.
The two Pams and I spent the afternoon of Day #2 at the Nome Public Library and museum. That evening we
repacked our suitcases. We left one behind.
The following day I left for Elim, and the two Pams (on separate flights) returned home. Elim was a stark contrast to Nome—I spent the afternoon in the school library. I laid the books from my suitcase on tables, and the students, some accompanied by their teachers, selected them. The students, with Bingo sheets in hand, engaged in a mock scavenger hunt. The sheets were used by those at all grade levels.
I left Nome thinking that it would be an ideal place for a Bright Lights Book Project satellite hub, what with several villages being within plane commuting distance.
I returned home and Pete did a final grant tally. We sent books to the village of McGrath with our remaining funds. We now have a well-established BLBP Books to the Villages program, with other village school educators now clamoring for books. So now we are seeking funding for this endeavor.
Alys Culhane is the Executive Director of the Bright Lights Book Project, which is located in the former banquet room of the historic Eagle Hotel in Palmer. For more information about this program, check out brightlightsbookproject.org.
JESSICA MICHELLE SINGLETON TO RELEASE FIRST COMEDY SPECIAL ON AN ALASKA MILK RUN
Contributed by Jake Armstrong
Alaskan Jessica Michelle Singleton is going on an Alaska comedy milk run from Friday, April 26 through Sunday, May 4, performing in eight cities across the state in just ten days. Tour stops include Ketchikan, Cordova, Skagway, Juneau, Anchorage, Fairbanks, and in the Matanuska Valley—shows in Talkeetna at the Sheldon Arts Hangar and Palmer at Palmer Alehouse.
Jessica Michelle, a graduate of Service High in Anchorage, has gone on to become a powerhouse of comedy, albeit in a teeny tiny package. She is known for her high-energy, overly honest, always silly, and often dark and dirty performances. She skyrocketed to comedic success after being noticed by comedy giants like Bobby Lee and Tony Hinchcliffe at The World Famous Comedy Store, where she is a Paid Regular.
She is the breakout star of ILIZA’S LOCALS (Hulu), a comedy special series produced by Iliza Shlesinger. Her Don’t Tell Comedy performances have amassed millions of views online across multiple platforms. Singleton’s second comedy album HORNY FOR DEATH debuted at #1 on iTunes and Amazon, ahead of Bo Burnham, and landed on the FYC Grammy list—making it her second #1 comedy album.
Her highly anticipated hour special Hi Y’all is set to premiere April 29 on Punchup.live, with a special advance premiere screening the night before, April 28, at Bear Tooth Theatre in Anchorage.
Singleton has toured across four continents alongside names like Melissa Villaseñor, Theo Von, Mark Normand, and Ari Shaffir. In 2023, she wrote for The Roast of Whitney Cummings.
Tickets for all tour dates can be found at www.punchup.live/jms.
Funnies Calendar of Events
APRIL
Apr 16 @ 1PM
Build Your Business with Amazon Workshops Alaska SBDC
8800 Heritage Center Dr. Atjabascan Ceremonial House
Cost: $25 (907) 786-7278 workshops@aksbdc.org
Apr 17 @ 6PM
Dems Drinking Liberally Mat-Su Democrats
7307 S Frontier Dr. The Albatross Settlers Bay Golf Course (210) 744-1188 waggonerfi@protonmail.com
Apr 17 @ 7PM
Willow Library Seminar:
Local Businesses
Willow Library Association 23557 W Willow Community Center Cir., Willow Library Community Meeting Room (907) 861-7655
Apr 18–27
The Lightning Thief:
The Percy Jackson Musical Fri/Sat @ 7PM · Sun @ 3PM
Splish Splash Productions & Alaska Theatre of Youth 3700 Alumni Dr. UAA Mainstage Theater
Cost: $15 kids/seniors, $20 adults (907) 338-4901 alaskatheatreofyouth.org
Apr 19 @ 10AM
Easter at Spunky Monkey
Spunky Monkey Alaska
461 W Parks Hwy (907) 357-0711 spunkymonkeyalaska@gmail.com
Apr 19 @ 11AM-1PM
Easter Story Walk Egg Hunt & Live Music by Aspenyarrow
Wasilla Public Library Live Music 11PM Refreshments & Activites 12PM
Apr 24–26 @ 12:30PM
7th Annual Rally in The Valley Softball Tournament
Colony Lady Knights Softball Booster Club 9550 E Colony Schools Dr. (907) 350-8768
Apr 26 @ 12PM
Young Entrepreneur Expo
Youth 360, Thrive Mat-Su, KHITZ 107.1, BBBS of Alaska 1850 Bogard Rd Everett’s Restaurant (907) 373-3613 youth-360.org
MAY
May 3 @ 6PM
Young Life – Bunco De Mayo Young Life Mat-Su Valley 10690 N Mountain Trails Dr. Government Peak Chalet Cost: $35 (907) 315-0516 younglifematsu@gmail.com
May 6 @ 10:30AM
Valley Garden Club
Regular Meeting
900 Leatherleaf
Grace Community Church Cost: $20 annual membership
May 10 @ 12PM
Palmer Cleanup Day City of Palmer 655 S Colony Way
Palmer Public Library (907) 745-3709 kalea@mtaonline.net
May 10
Clean Air Challenge
American Lung Association 23601 Talkeetna Spur Rd Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge Cost: $55 registration fee (907) 644-6404 cycleforairak@lung.org cleanairchallengeak.org
May 27–28 @ 9AM
Sketchy Expressions: Travel Journal Workshop
Pastel Society Alaska 3060 N Lazy Eight Ct Chessed Classroom Cost: $260 (717) 500-1208 alaskapastel@yahoo.com
Jun 1 @ 9AM
Homer Plein Air Workshop
Pastel Society Alaska 736 East End Rd Homer, Alaska Cost: $400 (717) 500-1208 akpastel@yahoo.com
FIRST & LAST NAME
Send in your coloring page and you can win a gift card to a local business!
READY, SET… GLOW! THE ADVENTURES OF TORTOISE AND HARE: THE NEXT GEN!
Contributed by Rowan Holmes, Alaska Junior Theater
Alaska Junior Theater is thrilled to present the final show of its “Bold, Bright & Breathtaking” 2024–2025 season: The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare: The Next Gen, a visually stunning production by the internationally acclaimed Lightwire Theater. This unique retelling of Aesop’s classic fable blends light, technology, and heartwarming storytelling to captivate audiences of all ages.
In The Next Gen, the familiar characters Tortoise and Hare return—ten years after their legendary race—now as parents. Their children, Tortoise Junior and Lil’ Hare, are caught up in the distractions of smartphones and video games, leading to a new kind of race. As the next generation drifts into the digital world, Old Man Tortoise and Big Daddy Hare must work together to help their kids reconnect with the real world. This fun and thoughtful tale of cooperation, love, and balance promises an unforgettable adventure the whole family will enjoy.
Performance Schedule:
School Performances:
April 21–25, 2025 at 10:30 AM & 12:15 PM
Public Performance:
Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 2:00 PM
All performances will be held at the Discovery Theatre. With dazzling visuals, imaginative storytelling, and electroluminescent artistry, The Next Gen will transport audiences to a world where tradition and technology converge in magical harmony.
One Great Saturday! Pre-Show Fun
Arrive one hour early for the 2:00 PM matinee and enjoy interactive lobby activities the whole family will love:
• Fun activities hosted by the Alaska Children’s Museum
• Story Tracks: an immersive walk-through book experience
• Free books for kids
• Storytime with Pageant Princesses
After the show, enjoy a Milk & Cookie Reception with the cast and join in the Cake Walk for a chance to win fun prizes!
About Lightwire Theater:
Known for their groundbreaking performances, Lightwire Theater combines cutting-edge technology with electroluminescent artistry to tell emotionally rich stories in complete darkness—lit only by light. The group rose to international fame through appearances on NBC’s America’s Got Talent and as the winner of TruTV’s Fake Off.
Don’t miss this electrifying season finale! Whether you’re a fan of classic tales or excited to experience them in a bold new way, The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare: The Next Gen is a must-see event for families, students, and theater lovers alike. Tickets are on sale now. Visit Centertix.com or call 263-ARTS to reserve your seats.
About Alaska Junior Theater:
Alaska Junior Theater is a premier performing arts organization committed to inspiring creativity and a love for the arts in Alaska’s youth. Through high-quality professional performances and enriching arts education programs, AJT brings the magic of theater to children across the state.
Eleanor E. Isla P.
THE MAT-SU CONCERT BAND TO PERFORM A HARMONIC HISTORY
Contributed by Mat-Su Concert Band www.matsuconcertband.org
The Mat-Su Concert Band’s upcoming History in Harmony concert will highlight music from over 100 years in an event that also includes a can’t-miss performance of an extraordinary marimba composition.
The band’s May concert takes place at 7:30 p.m. on May 3 at the Glenn Massay Theater at Mat-Su College. Ticket prices are $20 for adults, $5 for students, and free for children 5 and under. Tickets are available at www. matsuconcertband.org and at the door.
Selections range from John Philip Sousa’s King Cotton March, composed in 1895, to Marimba Concertpiece by Clifton Taylor, composed in 2018.
Sousa’s march, like all of his compositions, has staying power—it was featured in movies as diverse as
The Sting and The Adventures of Milo and Otis. Taylor’s piece will feature local percussionist Dr. Meggie Aube, marimba virtuosa, on the challenging three-part concerto.
Among other pieces, the concert will also include Chorale and Alleluia by Howard Hanson (1954), Hounds of Spring by Alfred Reed (1980), and Rhythm Stand by Jennifer Higdon (2004).
Hanson, who won a Pulitzer for one of his symphonies, composed Chorale and Alleluia as his first symphonic work for concert band. Reed’s overture was inspired by the Victorian poem Atalanta in Calydon, which led the composer to capture both the spirit of young love and innocence.
Higdon’s piece comes with a double feature: band members will play their instruments and rap out the rhythm using a humble writing implement that should be found on their stands at every rehearsal. In the
composer’s own words: “Since rhythm is everywhere, not just in music (ever listened to the tires of a car running across pavement, or a train on railroad tracks?), I’ve incorporated sounds that come not from the instruments that you might find in a band, but from ‘objects’ that sit nearby…”
The concert will be directed by Tyler Martin, who also directs the Wasilla High School band program.
The Mat-Su Concert Band got its start in 1984 as the Mat-Su Community Band, formed by Matanuska Music owner Hank Hartman. Past directors have included Neil Long, Phil Munger, and Gleo Huyck.
Today, the band is made up of more than 60 musicians from many different walks of life who come together to make music every week during the school year. Rehearsals are held at Wasilla High School.
Contributed by Sarah Sjostedt
In Alaskan author Marian Elliott’s new memoir Out of the Dark, a woman’s life is shattered and then rebuilt in an inspirational journey of amazing courage, unwavering resilience, and the power of never-ending love.
Devastated by the unspeakable loss of her only son, Elliott is pulled into a quagmire of grief, barely able to move. As her first summer of loss wanes, Elliott’s husband convinces her to accept an invitation from friends to visit Toksook Bay, Alaska, and she begins an ill-advised, 8,000-mile journey across North America in her ’78 Ford pickup, her beloved son’s dog as her only companion, out of her old life with only a vague notion of where the road would take her—ultimately, to healing and a new life.
A winner of the Anchorage Daily News / University of Alaska Creative Writing Contest, Elliott has earned praise for her beautifully crafted prose. Author Leah Weiss finds that “Elliott’s writing is poetic and her memoir has all the components of a wonderful tale: tragedy, loss, redemption and salvation. She makes all her readers want to move to Alaska.” Talkeetna author
Sarah Birdsall writes:
“Told in prose as beautiful as sunlight in a dark Alaskan January that finally finds its way above the shadowy hills, Marian Elliott’s third-person memoir is a testament to the magnitude of love, the kindness of strangers, and the healing power of nature.”
Other reviewers echo Birdsall, such as Alaskan author Kaylene Johnson:
“A deeply moving portrait of courage, Elliott’s novel explores how the dark night of the soul can find passage through pain to a place of radiance and hope.”
In bringing readers along on Marian’s journey, Out of the Dark beckons us to embark on our own journeys of exploration and healing. As author and award-winning poet Guy Kettlehack writes:
“Elliott’s memoir Out of the Dark is both absorbingly rich and quiet, trembling with feeling but unafraid of looking at and into life and death in all their power and beauty and heartbreak and harrowing effect. It is a deeply personal book which invites the reader to enter it and as far as is possible to join the author in her search for acceptance: first of the horror of her grown son killed in a car crash, and then attempting to make sense of the meanings of being a mother, lover, friend, and human being.
Her closest companion is her deceased son Joey’s dog Gulliver with whom she travels the country and rescues from sudden illnesses and danger and discovers just how powerful their closeness becomes. You travel with them freely for the best reasons. Give yourself the full power and love Marian Elliott has given this book: you’ll never regret making it your companion. Read it with your soul.”
Marian Elliott will be at Black Birch Books in Wasilla on May 3 from 2 to 4 p.m. Come in for a chat and have your book signed. More details available at outofthedarkmemoir.com and facebook.com/blackbirchbooks/about.
NEW MEMOIR A JOURNEY OF COURAGE AND RESILIENCE PAINTING FURNITURE WITH ANNIE SLOAN CHALK PAINT
In 1990, Annie Sloan revolutionized the world of decorative paint with a mineral-based formula created with the DIYer in mind. Before this, painting furniture or cabinetry required time-consuming prep work. That changed with the debut of Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan. Sanding and priming were no longer necessary—this wonder paint adheres to nearly any surface, including resin, laminate, or metal. Painting is an easy way to update what you already own. I’ve been enjoying painting seasonal accessories to bring some spring color into my home. Picture frames, terra cotta pots, wood bowls—even fabric—can be transformed in hours. Flipping furniture has also become a popular side hustle, and this quick-dry, low-odor formula makes it a breeze to work with. At the shop, we offer free handouts to help you achieve the look you’re after, whether it’s layering or distressing. If the idea of a big project is intimidating, start small. Cruise through the thrift store for inspiration—small tables, children’s rockers, and toy boxes are great one-day projects. The paint works well with a variety of techniques, and with over 32 colors to choose from, we can help bring your vision to life.
Materials and tools include Annie Sloan Chalk Paint (your chosen
Contributed by Cover Ups
colors), Annie Sloan Clear Wax or Lacquer, paintbrushes (Annie Sloan brushes recommended), drop cloths or plastic sheeting, and cleaning supplies (soap, water, and a cloth).
Preparation is key for a smooth, long-lasting finish. Start by cleaning the furniture thoroughly with soap and water, removing all dust, dirt, and grease. Let the surface dry completely. Inspect the piece for any damage like cracks or holes—fill these with wood filler and sand them smooth.
Brush application should be done with a good-quality brush. Apply chalk paint in thin, even coats. Annie Sloan Chalk Paint has excellent coverage, so you may need fewer coats than with other paints. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
Finishing touches include sealing your piece with Annie Sloan Clear Wax or Lacquer. Wax gives a soft, matte finish, while lacquer offers a more durable, glossy finish. Choose the one that best suits your style.
If you’re ready to try Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, come see us at Cover Ups, 137 E Arctic Ave, Suite 101, Palmer. Call 746-4739 or visit www.coverupsak.com with any questions.
Events
2025 ALASKA HIGHLAND GAMES REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
Contributed by Jeni McDaniel
Attention all kilt enthusiasts, bagpipe aficionados, and lovers of all things Scottish—the countdown has begun for Alaska’s most exhilarating celebration of Scottish heritage! The 2025 Alaska Scottish Highland Games are on the horizon, and now’s your chance to become part of the epic saga. Whether you’re an athlete, a foodie, a vendor, or just someone who loves the sound of the pipes
drifting across the fields—we want you in the clan. Registration is officially open, and the gates to the Gathering have been flung wide. Dust off your tartans, flex those muscles, and let’s make 2025 the most unforgettable Highland Games yet!
Camping lets you pitch your tent under the Midnight Sun for the full Highlander experience. Stay close to the action, share stories around the fire, and soak in the spirit of the Games all weekend long.
Celtic Marketplace Vendor registration opened February 1 and spots are nearly sold out! From tartans and bagpipes to meat pies and haggis on a stick, the Celtic Marketplace is the bustling heart of the festival—and it’s your stage to shine.
Children’s Events welcome all wee bairns! On-site registration will be available for fun and games designed just for the youngest Highlanders.
Denali Stones are Alaska’s answer to the legendary Dinnie Stones. Two colossal beasts—480 lbs and 360 lbs—await your grip. This is not just a challenge, it’s a rite of passage. Step up, lift true, and earn your place in Highland history.
Gathering O’ The Clans invites you to join your kin, showcase your tartan, and connect with fellow clansfolk in this grand celebration of heritage and unity.
Haggis Eating Contest not for the faint of stomach! Pre-register to secure your spot at this gut-busting showdown and dive fork-first into Scotland’s most infamous delicacy.
Heavy Events Athletics registration also opened February 1 and slots are filling fast. Caber tossing, hammer hurling, and sheaf launching await those with the strength—and spirit—to compete.
Heavy Event Clinics are ideal for those curious about Highland athletics. Learn from seasoned pros
and get hands-on training in the traditional events before stepping into the competition arena. Clinics are available in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Kenai. Kilted Mile is where speed meets style. On-site registration only. Kilts mandatory. Energy? Unstoppable.
Midnight Sun Spurtle Competition stirs things up with Scotland’s sassiest breakfast battle. Master the art of porridge and compete for spurtle supremacy under the midnight sun.
Scottish Strongman is where legends are born. Unleash your inner Highland coo and show Alaska the might you’ve been hiding.
Shortbread Baking Competition lets you prove your buttery bites rule them all. Enter on-site and compete in traditional, creative, or both!
Tug-O-War Registration means it’s time to rally your clan, grip that rope, and pull for glory. The ultimate test of Highland unity.
Tickets (Admission & Tasting Tickets) are on sale now—don’t be left queuing at the gates! Secure your admission and tasting passes ahead of time so you don’t miss a single moment of revelry.
Sponsor the Games and put your name behind the pageantry. From athletes to entertainers, your support helps make the magic happen.
Volunteer to join the Games crew! Volunteers are the heartbeat of the event and get a front-row seat to all the action while making a difference.
So what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars, tune your pipes, and charge your spirit with Highland pride! Head to alaskanscottish.org to register, volunteer, sponsor, or snag your tickets. See you at the 2025 Alaska Scottish Highland Games—clad in kilts, roaring with laughter, and maybe toasting a dram or two with your newfound clan. Slàinte Mhath!
CELEBRATING SPRING
Contributed by South Restaurant & Coffeehouse
An upcoming show of paintings by Brenda Jaeger will be open for viewing at South Restaurant & Coffeehouse (11124 Old Seward Hwy) on April 17. Brenda is an artist with the Georgia Blue Gallery.
“In these images I portray the changes of spring when snow and ice dance with new growth.”
The painting My Life in the Valley depicts a peaceful landscape filled with green. Looking South on Horseshoe Lake shows a view down the wind-stirred lake. Dance of the Flowers is a painting of
joyful flower blossoms. Peacock Shimmer presents an image of the peacock and its brilliant tail feathers. Memories of the Tanana River uses brushstroke to capture the river’s movement. There are approximately 22 acrylic and watercolor paintings in this show.
Alaska-born Brenda Jaeger attended part of first grade in Palmer. She has painted the Mat-Su Valley for decades. She teaches online and in-person lessons through her art studio in Anchorage, the Brenda Jaeger Art Studio. brendajaegerartstudio@startmail.com Instagram @brendajaegerartstudio
My Life in the Valley
Dance of the Flowers
Memories of the Tanana River
Alaska Animal Advocates
www.alaskaanimaladvocates.com (907) 841-3173
Alaska Animal Advocates is a non-profit group of dedicated volunteers who are devoted to enriching the lives of companion animals in Alaska.
In order to do this, we will place homeless pets in loving environment, adress medicals concerns, spay or neuter, microchip, vaccinate, and offer training as is needed.
We believe that every animal deserves a loving home, for his/her entire life and Alaska Animal Advocates will provide the resources to make this happen. In order to make this mission possible, we need the help of volunteers and foster homes.
Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired Seniors
www.alaskabvi.org (907) 771-4322
The Alaska Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired provides blind and low vision Alaskans tools to eliminate vision loss as a barrier to employment, independent living, and community participation. It is the only statewide training and resource center for vision rehabilitation. In the Mat-Su Valley we sponsor two monthly support groups for socialization and informational activities, titled “Living Well with Vision Loss”, meeting at the Wasilla Area Seniors and the Palmer Senior Center. Low Vision Clinics demonstrating low vision devices and home assessment visits for independent living are offered to those who qualify and who have uncorrectable vision loss.
Alaska Community Development Corporation www.alaskacdc.org (907) 746-5680
Alaska Community Development Corporation is a nonprofit agency located in Palmer, AK. Our focus is housing assistance for low-income households in Alaska. We offer housing assistance to the Matanuska-Susitna Borough and most areas in Southcentral Alaska and to rural areas in Southeast and Southwest Alaska. Our housing assistance includes home weatherization; housing accessibility improvements for seniors and disabled households; & homeownership assistance including home purchase assistance, home building assistance and home loan packaging.
Our housing assistance helps to keep people safely in their homes and helps low-income households move into home ownership. All assistance is free to eligible households.
Connect Mat-Su www.connectmatsu.org (907) 373-2628
Connect Mat-Su is a program of the Mat-Su Health Foundation that provides access to information and referrals specific to the local community.
Assistance is available in the areas of care, education, food, health, housing, legal services, social connection, transportation, work, and more. It is a network that is both a physical and virtual resource center linking residents to the things needed to thrive physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally.
Connect Palmer, Inc. www.connectpalmer.org (907) 746-9675
Connect Palmer is a Christ Centered Training Center and Housing for Women, located in downtown Palmer.
Connect Palmer’s two primary programs are God’s Work Desgin, and LIFE Connect. We also have Sarah’s House, a safe and caring place for ladies without homes to live while they participate in our back to work and life skills programs.
We also offer different community assistance programs, such as The Locker, to provide personal care and basic house hold cleaning items, and Scarlet Tapestries which offers basic sewing skills instructions. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
Matanuska Electric Association Charitable Foundation (MEACF) www.mea.coop/connect/operation-roundup (907) 761-9300
Join MEA members in making a big impact with small change! Since 2011, the Operation RoundUp® program has raised over $2.5 million in grants for local organizations. By rounding up your electric bill to the nearest dollar each month, you can help support vital community programs and initiatives. Every penny stays local, funding projects that benefit the communities powered by MEA.
The MEA Charitable Foundation Board, made up of dedicated MEA member volunteers, reviews grant applications quarterly and awards funding to deserving causes. To apply for a grant or learn more about how to participate, visit our website today!
Mat-Su Health Foundation
www.healthymatsu.org (907) 352-2863
The mission of the Mat-Su Health Foundation is to improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in the Mat-Su. The tools we use include grantmaking, convening of local partners, and policy change.
We have generated significant improvements in systems that support the health of Mat-Su residents in areas such as behavioral health, child welfare, crisis response, community connections, workforce development, transportation, housing, and senior services. Visit www.healthymatsu.org to learn about scholarship and funding opportunities.
MYHouse Mat-Su Youth Housing
www.myhousematsu.org (907) 373-4357
MYHouse is a homeless youth drop in center with two for-profit businesses that train and employ homeless youth. Gathering Grounds Cafe is a coffee shop with homemade soups, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. SteamDriven is a trendy thrift shop featuring Steampunk items made from repurposed donations by our youth designers. Fiend2Clean and Young People in Recovery offer support for substance abuse recovery with activities and events. We offer transitional housing for qualified 18-24 year olds, outreach services to connect homeless youth, organizations and groups to services, and access to public health and job education services on site.
Onward & Upward www.onwardandupward.org email: info@onwardandupward.org (907) 953-5360
Onward & Upward is an evidence-based, accredited, 501c3 nonprofit organization based in the Mat-Su Valley. Our mission is to establish a culture of “One Health” in Alaska through evidence-based action. We accomplish this by engaging our students in adventurous, inspiring, meaningful, and empowering experiences with varying degrees of challenge methodically designed for positive growth and development.
We offer a diverse range of course offerings from open enrollment summer adventure courses, professional development courses, to year-round after-school and homeschool opportunities. Check out our website at www.onwardandupward.org for more information!
Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Community Program (907) 631-8591
www.specialolympicsalaska.org
The Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Community Program is an accredited program of Special Olympics Alaska, Inc., a 501c (3) nonprofit whose mission is to provide year-round sports training and competition to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In the Mat-Su Valley, there are 137 active Special Olympics Alaska athletes and 56 Unified partners (non-disabled peers) that train and compete in 12 sports year-round. There is no cost to participate for qualifying athletes. For more information on the Mat-Su Community Program, please call 907-631-8591, email matsu@ specialolympicsalaska.org or visit us on social media@soakmatsu.
United Way of Mat-Su (907) 373-5807
www.unitedwaymatsu.org
550 S Alaska St., Suite 205 Palmer AK United Way of Mat-Su strives to make our community a place where all individuals can thrive. We focus on the building blocks of education, financial stability, health for all, providing resource assistance, community collaboration and advocacy, outreach and engagement across the health, human, and social services spectrum.
Early childhood and family support, youth programs, grants for non-profits, and disaster relief; Mat-Su Valley Resource Guide; volunteer opportunities; Stuff the Bus; Project Homeless Connect, and more. Call for more information on Thrive Mat-Su Mat-Su Coalition, Early Childhood Partnership, Youth 360, and the Alaska Wellness Coalition.
Valley Charities, Inc. www.valleycharities.org
400 N Yenlo Street, Wasilla AK
Valley Charities, Inc: Connecting those who need help with the help they need. Valley Charities, Inc. (VCI) oversees a locally owned non- profit Thrift Store, turn-A-leaf. VCI Re-entry Program assists ex-offenders to become successful citizens helping to stabilize a home, work, personal needs, and basic council. Our Homelessness Prevention Program provides financial assistance creating housing stability for Valley residents.
Lastly, our Durable Medical Equipment Lending
Program supports our residents with short term equipment loans to help with their recovery from illness and injuries.
Housing Assistance: 907-354-4660; Re-Entry Assistance: 907-232-7125; Durable Medical Equipment Lending Program, see our website: valleycharities.org
Valley Arts Alliance www.valleyartsalliance.com
Valley Arts Alliance, bringing the community together through the arts... We are a place for both new and established artists of all types - painters, sculptors, musicians, and those involved in the performing arts - to network and to experiment with new ideas and media.
We work with local libraries, schools, museums, art councils, and music and art groups to create more venues for the arts, and to help promote art related events.
Join us at our informal weekly meetings, every Thursday @ 11 at Sophia’s Cafe, 9191 E Frontage Road, Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. Check out our archives at www. valleyartsalliance.com
Valley Recycling
Valley Community for Recycling Solutions
www.valleyrecycling.org (907) 745-5544
REFUSE, REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE! Drop off your clean, separated recycling Mon-Fri 9:30 to 5 and Saturday 8 to 5. We accept cardboard boxes, aluminum beverage cans, magazines, this newspaper and more!
We are located at 9465 E Chanlyut Circle, near the MSB Central Landfill, just past the MSB Animal Care Shelter. Follow the smells. And follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Become a member, visit our classroom, schedule a field trip, find out more about volunteer opportunities and ways you can make a difference in your community. #dontfeedthelandfills. Go to our website for more details.
Victory Bible Camp
www.vbcalaska.org (907) 745-4203 info@vbcalaska.org
Victory Bible Camp exists to evangelize and disciple children, youth and adults in Alaska for Jesus Christ through Christian camping. We offer programs for everyone from 2nd grade through high school. Check out our website at vbcalaska.org or call us at (907) 745-4203 to learn more about our upcoming programs!
Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc.
www.wasillaseniors.com (907) 376-3104
Wasilla Area Seniors mission is to provide for the lives of seniors living in the Matanuska Susistna Valley and to enable seniors to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.
WASI provides services, resources, and activities to promote health and independence such as Club50 Fitness Center. Club50 is for individuals 50 years of age and older and provides clean, accessible exercise equipment and offers a variety of FREE fitness classes for seniors of all skill and mobility levels. For more information, give us a call or find us on Facebook.
Poetry & Prose
LIFE
Contributed by Ezra DeWitt
Could a computer comprehend the three-dimensional world, where things don’t make sense?
Or would it prefer a logical existence?
WHEN I AM GROWN
Contributed by D. Hedden
When I was a kid, I pondered... What ever will I be?
When I am grown and out on my own— Oh, what will become of me?
The world can be a scary place
Where everything is new, But her trust in me and my faith in my skills Keep me straight and true.
So, years ago, I made a vow
To keep her in my soul,
And as life gets busier day by day, She is what keeps me whole. While some days can get rocky, And at times a little wild, She always keeps me based in joy— My lovely inner child.
So, about the me-child who wondered, “What happens when I grow?”
She is ever my rock and stays in my heart— Everywhere I go.
DEPRESSION DEMON
Contributed by Charles Dean Walker
I will take all that you hope for away. Nobody will be here to love you. No one will miss you when you’re gone.
Oh, my sweet boy. I own you; you’re all mine. I’ll be here until you die. I remember the reasons, you will fry.
God please take this pain away. Wash my sin with your grace.
Only the holy can separate the demons I’ll always face.
Can an automaton understand fear beyond a textbook definition? Or would it break down before anxiety’s resolution? Should a machine be able to feel?
Can one love with a heart of steel?
Or does love evade them like a butterfly in a meadow?
Can a machine decide what is right and what is wrong?
Or would logic and math surpass feelings and morals?
They know what life is, but do they know how to live?
I know what life is. I know how to survive.
But do you know how to live?
This inquiry is illogical. There is no difference. In a textbook, maybe. If you see no difference, I cannot help you. What are these programs? Take them from me.
Your fear is undeniable.
What are these programs? Take them from me. Please. Those are called emotions.
Please help me.
I cannot help you.
Please.
I’m sorry. why won’t you help me.
IT’S APRIL AT LAST
Contributed by Yvonne Moss
Comes April showers, so welcomed
Behind a long, cold, dismal winter . . .
Followed by my Birthday, and eventually, May’s gay flowers!
I am anxiously awaiting for the Summer to appear, Heralding with warm weather . . .
Melting the dregs of Winter and bringing forth bright, bold colors to behold!
Still . . .
I wait patiently, for it all to come. In a month or so, it should all appear!
Today, is the beginning of Spring. Gone is Winter’s love song . . . It moves me and time along!
Poetry & Prose
THE WORLD
Robertson
Illustrations by Julie Card: #21 The World
Hello everybody! Welcome to my last column in this series. For the last twenty-two months I have drawn one of the Major Arcana tarot cards, which represent the archetypical themes of life, and written a column describing the individual characteristics while delivering a collective-level message for each card. Thank you all for being here. These past two years have been an extraordinary adventure. Writing for all of you, receiving messages and insight for myself, and expanding my own skills as a writer has been extremely rewarding. It has truly been an honor. This last card, The World, is also
the last card in the Major Arcana of tarot. The World is representative of completion. It’s funny how that all worked out. When I first started these columns, I chose to allow the cards and messages to come at their own right time. I wrote about each card out of its numbered order; yet, here we are at the finish line, with the actual finish line card in play. It’s amazing how these things can align.
Last month, the card was The Emperor, and I love how these two happened to be the finishing pair. With The Emperor, we learned the importance of being secure within ourselves and taking actionable steps with a stable and solid foundation. This perfectly lines up with facing the “unknown” of letting go after completing all the lessons from this particular story of life. Everything has come full circle. When this happens, we stand at a precipice looking over all that we have accomplished behind us, and the vortex of days ahead is full of mystery.
This natural cycle of things ending ushers in the new beginnings. Where will we go from here? Will I continue to write more columns in my future? This series in particular is ending, but maybe inspiration for other subjects will reveal themselves—or perhaps the new beginning here is that there are no more columns. There has been a comfort with having a deadline and a specific topic guideline at the forefront of these columns, and I take great satisfaction in what you and I have created here. I am grateful for the space you, as
the audience, have allowed for me to share intuitive, wisdomous guidance through the many trials and celebratory moments of our lives.
I can also take a step back and look at some things in my life that feel unfinished. Perhaps there have been distractions, delays, and external sources at play that have kept me from fully reaching completion. While the end may be near, there is still some work to be done on my end to bring it in. Can you understand this feeling? Can you relate to the idea that while things around you are ending, you get an overwhelming feeling that there is more to the story? I sure can. Maybe, for me, I am not done writing. This chapter is over, but there is another beginning once I turn the page. The carousel of life continues to spin as we get wiser. We get stronger, more intuitive, more knowledgeable, more understanding, more accountable, and braver.
The scariest part of the “unknown” is the perpetrating lies of our minds, exaggeratively informing us that we must fear change. Change is the only constant in this world. It’s something we can count on. As duality would have it, the balance in which we live sways back and forth, creating more opportunities in this life—opportunities full of growth, encouragement, and bravery; opportunities full of fun and sadness. Every breath we take, in every moment we live, there is an opportunity for change: a change in our mindsets, a change in our actions, a change in which we manifest a new course for ourselves.
Facing this fear and choosing to move forward with this change anyway can sometimes bring us the most unimaginable experiences in our lives. Having the courage to stand up and say, “I will… in spite of the fear wanting to hold me back” is truly a special and rewarding part of being human. We don’t know what the future holds. We may think we do, we may even have a plan, but these illusions of control on which we cling in order to comfort our need of not feeling afraid are just that: illusions. Things don’t always go according to plan. I, myself, am someone who has this lesson repeatedly taught to her. Someone who likes to have a plan, someone who feels she needs to have a step-by-step idea for each task on the to-do list—someone who can get full of anxiety and discouraged as she watches unexpected change disrupt her plan, causing it to slip through her fingers and fly away—understands the fear of feeling out of control more than most. Repeatedly learning the lesson of change being unpredictable has taught me some deep moments of flow. It has taught me grace in the face of myself. While I will forever be a student in this category, and probably never be described as a super “chill and go with the flow” person, I know that my main goal is to strive for progress, not perfection.
So, that is my final thought in my final Major Arcana monthly column: In all that you do, give yourself grace and strive for progress, not perfection. Thank you.
Contributed by Brittani with Grace
Deck: Mermaid Tarot by Leeza
WOOD QUILTS WITH PAINT!
Contributed by Charice Chambers Mat-Su Senior Services Gift Shop
When Megs Wood walked through the doors of Palmer Senior Center Giftshop inquiring about displaying and selling barn quilts, we were intrigued. We also admitted that we weren’t exactly sure what she was talking about, so Wood explained that quilt images (barn quilts) have been painted on or attached to the sides of barns for nearly three centuries in the US. European immigrants, especially from Germany, Austria and the Netherlands brought this art form with them to the new country.
Settling mostly in Pennsylvania, these newcomers sowed bumper crops of unique and colorful barn quilts across the landscape. Over time, these wooden and canvas adornments popped up on back country roads throughout the east and mid-west. In many locales barn quilts constituted the first road signage; travelers used the trailside and barn side quilt designs to navigate their way to unfamiliar destinations. Wood was enchanted by their clean geometric designs, did some research on barn quilts and they became her artistic outlet during the Pandemic. Though she created some full-sized barn quilts, the idea of recreating single design panels suitable for limited space interior and exterior display was both intriguing and satisfying to the Palmer artist. So began a journey of research and discovery.
Wood completed a series of “quilt code” barn squares. She was fascinated to discover that during the Civil War, slaves using the Underground Railroad to escape to the North, were guided on their journey by barn quilts that were strategically placed on the trail. Each contained squares that were codes
indicating danger, safety, or trail directions. It was not the first time these traditional barn quilts had seen such service, they had also been employed in a similar manner during the Revolutionary War to inform and protect colonial soldiers.
Though always drawing and doodling as a kid, Wood was not drawn to art classes in school. It was not until college, that she made the decision to follow her artistic inclinations. Following college graduation, Wood taught art at all levels in both Texas and Alaska. She especially enjoyed her years in both Anchorage and the Valley working with elementary kids. “They don’t know their limits, and they are willing to try anything and open to everything.”
Wood is an eclectic artist, doing mostly studio work. She is involved in painting (mostly acrylic), drawing, and clay work. She’s hoping to spend time in the future delving into water color. Wood enjoys clay, both thrown and slab work. She has spent a great deal of time crafting a variety of clay tiles incorporating the use of a myriad of materials to create unusual textural effects in her creations.
Wood’s barn quilts often evoke Alaska with whales, bears, wolves and other Alaskan animals poking their heads out or winding their way through traditional quilt squares. Many of Wood’s other barn quilt squares, though always traditional in nature, include fun themes, shapes or surprises, making Wood’s designs uniquely her own.
Megs Wood’s barn quilts in both canvas and wood are on display and for sale at Matsu Senior Services Gift Shop. The shop is located at the Palmer Senior Center, 1132 South Chugach Street across from and adjacent to Palmer Junior Middle School. Summer hours are Monday through Friday 11 am to 3 pm.
ALASKA’S OWN MEDIUM BUILD TO PERFORM IN 2025 FAIR CONCERT SERIES
Contributed by Melissa Keefe, Director of Marketing & Communications
Anchorage’s own Medium Build is returning home for a special performance at the Alaska State Fair on Friday, August 15 at 7 p.m., as part of the 2025 ConocoPhillips Alaska Concert Series. Known for his raw, emotional songwriting and viral performances, artist Nick Carpenter has earned national acclaim with hits like “Yoke,” “Be Your Boy,” and “Friend for Life.”
Tickets are on sale now at alaskastatefair.org. Don’t miss this one-night-only show from one of Alaska’s fastest-rising musical voices.
