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Photography
ALASKA BY BANKS:
ENCOUNTERS ACROSS ALASKA
MID-AUGUST 2026
Contributed by Harry Banks Photography When photographer Harry Banks stood on the rocky shores of Coffman Cove at 5am, the quiet morning was suddenly shattered by the roar of a humpback whale breaking the surface, its tail splashing down as the rising sun turned the cascading ocean water into liquid gold. Moments like these aren’t planned. They are unscripted gifts from the wild, born from patience, curiosity and a willingness to simply show up. Now through September 12, visitors can experience these encounters in “Alaska by Banks: Encounters Across Alaska,” a photography exhibition by Harry Banks at Vagabond Blues, 642 S. Alaska St., Palmer. The show combines wildlife photography, dramatic landscapes and cultural history into a journey across the Last Frontier, with special gallery pricing on prints available during the exhibition. A Lifelong Passion Rekindled: For Harry, the journey to this gallery wall was decades in the making. In the 1960s, he worked as a freelance photographer in the Washington, D.C. area. Life eventually stepped in, cameras were set aside for a long career teaching computer networking, and decades slipped by. Then, in July 2023 at age 81, Harry traveled to Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park. Standing along the river, he locked eyes with a young brown bear standing upright in the rushing water. “To me, he seemed to be asking a simple question: ‘What’s next?’” Harry recalls. “The question lingered long after the encounter ended. In many ways, it was my question too.” That moment reignited a dormant spark. Now 82,
Harry is proving that life’s greatest chapters don’t always happen in our youth. They can begin the second we decide to start again. Stories Written in Light, Feathers and Cedar: Every photograph in the exhibition is paired with a story, inviting viewers into the moment the shutter clicked. A Belted Kingfisher perching unfazed in the cold rain at Potter Marsh turns a gray afternoon into a lesson in patience. A bald eagle named Everest launches into flight over weathered pilings in Craig, while a determined gull defends its territory against a towering eagle along the Copper River. The exhibition also includes personal reflections on Haida and Tlingit heritage across Southeast Alaska, from the haunting faceless MMIW carving in Klawock to quiet moments before ancestral clan houses in Saxman and Totem Bight. Other images bring humor and joy, including a duck
pointing across the water as if saying, “He went that way!” and mirrored water reflections turned on their side to reveal aquatic “dancers.” Come See the Show: “Alaska by Banks: Encounters Across Alaska” is more than a display of images. It is an invitation to look closer at the world around us, embrace spontaneous wonder and ask what adventures may be waiting just around the corner. The exhibition runs through September 12 at Vagabond Blues, 642 S. Alaska St., Palmer, during regular café hours. More info, stories and print options: AlaskaByBanks.com. Contact Harry Banks at HBanks@alaskabybanks.com.
SECOND ANNUAL REIMAGINE! A RECYCLED ART SHOW Contributed by Judy Vars
Are you a collector? A hoarder? An artist? Now is your chance to transform your collected objects into art. The Art Cafe in Palmer is pleased to announce its second annual community juried art show, “REIMAGINE: A Recycled Art Show,” coming this October. The event celebrates creativity using recycled materials, including used items, rusty relics, curious artifacts, found objects, old dolls, forgotten toys and more. Beyond the art itself, the show also raises awareness about waste and pollution. REIMAGINE invites anyone with a love for recycling and a passion for the planet to participate. Through innovative artwork made
primarily from recycled materials, the show brings the principles of reduce, reuse and recycle to life. Art with a conscience, made from what we throw away. Teens through adults are encouraged to participate, and artists of all skill levels are welcome. Artwork must be made from at least 90% recycled materials, with pieces no larger than 24”x24”x24”. Any medium or style is acceptable, provided it demonstrates creativity and innovation in recycled art. The deadline to submit artwork is September 30 at 5pm. Artists can pick up a prospectus at The Art Cafe register or online at theartcafeak.com/gallery/f/ reimagine-a-recycled-art-showprospectus.
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Arts
There is no entry fee, and all art should be for sale. Artists are encouraged to set a sale price that reflects a 25% gallery commission. Ribbons will be awarded for first, second and third place, along with People’s Choice and plenty of bragging rights. REIMAGINE will be on display throughout October 2026, with a First Friday gallery opening October 2, 5-7pm at The Art Cafe. More info: Becky Holsinger at 907-745-6100; Judy Vars at 907-355-2219; theartcafeak@ gmail.com; or message The Art Cafe on Facebook or Instagram. Community members can get involved by making art, teaching a class, donating materials or simply attending the show. Come celebrate art and recycling.
LOCAL ARTIST BRINGS “FLAMAZING” WATERCOLOR EXHIBIT TO BEARPAW RIVER BREWING COMPANY Contributed by Suzanne Edwards
Bearpaw River Brewing Company will host a vibrant new art exhibition titled “FLAMAZING,” featuring original watercolors by local artist Suzanne Bach Edwards. The community is invited to the opening on Saturday, September 5, 5-6pm at the brewery, 4605 E. Palmer-Wasilla Highway. The collection was inspired by a visit to the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, where Edwards was captivated by the flamingo exhibit and the birds’ unique form and movement. “The curved patterns created
by all of their necks moving about was intriguing,” Edwards said, noting that their lanky legs and distinct angles reminded her of “walking chopsticks.” “FLAMAZING” translates that fascination into fluid, colorful watercolor pieces capturing the energy, rhythm and grace of the birds. Opening-night attendees can meet Edwards, discuss her creative process and view the collection firsthand. The artwork will remain on display throughout September. Bearpaw River Brewing Company is open daily, 3-8pm. More info: Suzanne Bach Edwards at 907-301-5308.
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Poetry & Prose FAREWELL, DEAR MARJI Contributed by Randi Perlman
Marji, my dear, your mission was clear To bring joy to the world, as each day unfurled It was always apparent your intentions were good You approached life with gusto as most of us should Always an interesting tale to be told Like a bud into blossom your life did unfold A wide-flung circle of friendly faces All coming to see you from so many places Everyone loved your candid demeanor Your keen sense of humor, a real crowd pleaser Your gentle embrace of a nursing career Let everyone know that to you, they were dear Nurses and gardeners and fishing folx too Felt a kindred connection with someone like you All puppies and kitties held your affection And your feeder-birds certainly were no exception Supporter of many a meaningful cause Your generous heart deserved all our applause Your friendships were many, the span of time great You made everyone eager to reciprocate So many pastimes, hobbies and loves But your family came first and you placed them above
MID-AUGUST 2026
Like the pilots among us, your spirit soared high You were game for adventure and a good piece of pie Your wisdom, your laughter, your being, et al Drew us all in, ‘tis no secret at all 96 years seem hardly enough To get all the words spoken and do all the stuff Enjoying the good things in life was your due And now we can look back and celebrate you Your pets and your neighbors, family and friends Were blessed just to know you, beginning to end All of us hoped that you never would leave And your passing has left us all feeling bereaved But we’re joyful, too, for the you that we knew And the time shared seeing through your eye’s view So grateful we got to spend meaningful time With someone so gifted, loving and kind We embrace your memory with honor and love And we know that you’re resting in peace up above While imparting your wisdom to those you have joined With your Canadian lilt and some words that you coined Marji, you were the best that a human can be You’ll remain close in our hearts for eternity!
I MISS THE COWS
Contributed by Wendy Brooker I miss the cows although they weren’t mine, and I didn’t know them well but I did know it was hard to keep the dairy going as the farming family watched its hope and history fading From the road, I could see dozens of cows in the warmer seasons black and white, steady, peaceful creatures lying, standing, or sauntering around in their field in much the same way their ancestors did in this place which – not long ago –was mostly fields and forest I miss the cows and mooing loudly a greeting to them as I drove past with the windows down breathing in their bovine cologne The farm was a few miles away from my backyard but I remember sometimes hearing them their vuvuzela concert of moo-songs floating my way like mellow warning sirens or the lamentations of lost souls harmonizing with the humming of increasing traffic noise
SUMMER
Contributed by Laura Thomas amazon box fire smells like no dark sleep I dream of cabbage __ the dogs and I bark and cry where you’re going there is no water __ got in a fight with ai this morning. I told it it was boring. it responded. __ organize nuts & bolts for functional ruin rain water coffee swing low expectations
I miss the cows when I look at the lonely, overgrown lot, the deteriorating barn and I imagine the cows all packing their bags on that fateful day, years ago lining up outside, looking back for a just moment before getting in the truck to leave
5/19/1930 – 7/24/2026 Marji Campbell, originally from Ontario, Canada, moved to Anchorage in 1970 and worked as a public health nurse. Two years later she moved to the Mat-Su Valley and continued her nursing career. Marji lived in her Wasilla home for over 50 years; her house was one of the first homes built in that neighborhood. Many Valley parents have fond memories of her gentle ministrations and immunizations of their children from years back. Marji was a kind soul, a generous supporter of multiple local nonprofit organizations, and delighted in birding, gardening, reading, woodturning, sculpting, fiber arts, preserving public lands, and all animals. She was a beacon of goodness & joy and will be sorely missed & always remembered with love by many.
PURPLE MOOSE SEASONS Contributed by Anthony Irsik
Each line of this poem was taken from messages displayed on Purple Moose Espresso’s sign in Palmer. Life happens, Coffee Helps Daily special Spring Blossom Good days start here Cinnamon rolls on Mother’s Day May showers bring June flowers Yellow sunshine
Summer might be here We all scream for ice cream Rain or shine, ice cream time But first Coffee Happy pumpkin spice season Daily special Charlie Brown Espresso patronym Happy Fall Coffee for every occasion Snow much better with coffee Daily special Marshmallow Mug Joy in a cup Cinnamon rolls on Sunday These are the good ol days
NON-PROFIT DIRECTORY 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 volun-teers 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 reha-bilitation. 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 Cen-ter. 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; hous-ing 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, educa-tion, food, health, housing, legal services, social con-nection, 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 pro-grams, 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!
We offer a diverse range of course offerings from open enrollment summer adventure courses, profes-sional development courses, to year-round after-school and homeschool opportunities. Check out our website at www. onwardandupward.org for more information!
REACH 907 www.reach907ak.org
info@reach907ak.org | 907-745-6200 Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and heard. At REACH 907, we walk alongside Alaska’s youth—helping them build resilience, discover their worth, and find their voice through compassionate, trauma-informed care. Through therapeutic foster care, behavioral health services, case management, learning support, and youth programs, we meet children where they are and help them move forward with strength, resilience, and hope for what’s ahead. REACH stands for Restoring, Empowering, and Strengthening Alaska’s Children and Homes—a mission lived out every day, in every relationship. If a child or family is struggling, don’t wait. Connection changes everything. Reach out today and let’s take the first step -- together.
Mat-Su Health Foundation
Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Community Program
www.healthymatsu.org
www.specialolympicsalaska.org
(907) 352-2863
(907) 631-8591
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, conven-ing 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 develop-ment, transportation, housing, and senior services. Visit www.healthymatsu.org to learn about scholar-ship and funding opportunities.
The Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Community Pro-gram is an accredited program of Special Olympics Alas-ka, 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.
MYHouse Mat-Su Youth Housing www.myhousematsu.org
(907) 373-4357 MY House is a youth drop-in center in Wasilla that serves at-risk youth ages 14-25 from around the State of Alaska. We provide stable housing to youth that are couch surfing, unstably housed, living outside, sleeping in cars, or residing in generally unsafe situations. Our organization also gives our clients access to comprehensive wrap-around services, with on-site case management, peer support, substance abuse treatment, shower and laundry services, and meal assistance. Furthermore, we provide job training and assist with high-school completion both on and off-site. We also provide substance abuse treatment for individuals 18-25 in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Onward & Upward www.onwardandupward.org 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 evidencebased 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.
United Way of Mat-Su www.unitedwaymatsu.org
550 S Alaska St., Suite 205 Palmer AK (907) 373-5807 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 collabora-tion 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) over-sees 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 creat-ing housing stability for Valley residents. Program supports our residents with short term equip-ment 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 ven-ues for the arts, and to help promote art related events. Join us at our informal weekly meetings, every Thursday @ 11 at Sophia’s Cafe 10697 E Palmer-Wasilla Highway. 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 Monday-Saturday 8 to 5, Closed Sunday. 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 info@vbcalaska.org
(907) 745-4203 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 possi-ble for as long as possible. WASI provides services, resources, and activities to promote health and independence such as Club50 Fit-ness 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.`
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Funnies
Phoebe, 11
Annabel, 6
Millie, 13
Alice, 13
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Community HEAR YE, HEAR YE! A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS
AT THE YOUTH ARCHIVE! Contributed by Carol Dorman
Hark, good citizens! Gather ’round and let it be known throughout the realm: the Youth Archive in Palmer is opening a new chapter this September with a new membership program designed to help keep this unique community gathering place thriving. Beginning September 1, Youth Archive memberships will be $15 per month for teens and $30 per month for families of 6. A $5 day pass will remain available for occasional visits. And what doth a membership bring? Quite a bounty! Teen members who sign the conduct pledge and whose parents sign the liability waiver will receive entry during public hours, a free drink and snack, a VR/Xbox session and opportunities to participate in coin challenges, all included with membership. Teen members who signed up under the previous free-membership policy will receive three free passes if they sign up for a new monthly membership. The Youth Archive will also offer a $125-per-month Youth Organization Partnership for group homes and
other youth-serving organizations with larger groups wishing to attend during public hours. Meanwhile, the HIVE continues to be a party rental amusement center for private groups of all ages and interests, and you don’t need to be a member to rent it. The Youth Archive continues its quest to provide the community with a family-friendly place to learn, create, play and belong, filled with pool tables, games, crafts, music, karaoke, movies, VR, dancing, food and plenty of imaginative adventures under one roof. So, sharpen thy sword, gather thy companions and come join the fellowship! The next chapter of the Youth Archive begins NOW. www.youtharchive.org
SPELL CHECK PROVIDES SPELLING BEE TALES AND MORE BOOK REVIEW Contributed by Lynn Lovegreen
Do you remember participating in spelling bees in grade school or middle school? Whether we love spelling or hate it, most of us remember having to stand in front of the class and spell words. I didn’t realize how emotional that experience could be until I read Spell Check. Spell Check is an entertaining and inspiring anthology of short stories about spelling and spelling bees. We hear from adult writers who as kids either loved spelling or loathed it. The stories capture fierce competition, wins, losses, and often life lessons as well. For example, Laura Carpenter’s “Washington” shows her indignant
response to an unfair spelling bee ruling and how it affected her later in life. Paul Hostovsky’s “Mnemonic” makes an interesting comparison between the silent letter in that word and the silent or unstated elements of ASL (American Sign Language). Each story in this book offers something to the reader. Whether you can’t spell to save your life or you can spell any word thrown at you, you’re bound to find stories that make you chuckle or make you think. I highly recommend this book edited by Caitlin M. S. Buxbaum and Colette Freedman and published by local publisher Red Sweater Press.
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Arts
CHICKALOONIES AT THE ALASKA STATE FAIR Contributed by Lilly Elliston, MY House Mat-Su
This year at the Alaska State Fair, local comic book duo Dimi Macheras and Casey Silver of the Alaska-based Chickaloonies series will host their own workshop and booth. “We interact and collaborate with the audience to all create a character together. Collaboration is the foundation of everything Dimi and I do; it’s the foundation of the teachings and the message in our books,” Casey explained. “The
Martial Arts
MID-AUGUST 2026
Contributed by Kendall Stewart There are many of us who grew up watching martial arts movies wondering, how do they fight like that? As a kid, I watched Bruce Lee and old-school Kung Fu movies, amazed that the main character could block all those attacks and beat multiple people. When I got older, I thought it was impossible to block one person’s attacks, let alone multiple. When I was in college, I went to a party with a girl I was dating. I was leading her through a crowd of people when I heard her yelling behind me. I turned around and she was yelling at a really tall, buff guy. I walked over and asked what happened. She told me the guy grabbed her. This guy was a 6’8” muscle man, and he looked
AUTHORS COLLABORATE & TEACH
drawings each day will be created live and raffled off to an audience winner at the end of the show.” “All the things you see at the workshop, the murals and teachings, just kind of organically stem from our background,” said Dimi. “Growing up with my grandma, I got to hear traditional Yah Ne Dah Ah stories. Those stories are our cultural mythology, and
each one had a lesson. My grandma would let me draw those characters from her stories.” Regarding the Chickaloonies series, Dimi explained, “I showed Casey some of the comics I had made when I worked for the village, Yah Ne Dah Ah comics. Then began our new concept for creating a new Athabaskan comic book, a new adventure and fantasy inspired by manga. That’s how we got the idea for the Chickaloonies.” In addition to their State Fair activities, Casey and Dimi are celebrating the release of the third book in their series. They will have 75 hardcover first-edition copies of Chickaloonies – Rebel Road available for guests who visit their booth.
MY KUNG FU JOURNEY
down at me like, “What are you going to do about it?” At the time, I had no formal training and, on the inside, I was terrified. On the outside, I stood up to him and told him he needed to apologize or else. I was hoping he was going to apologize because my “or else” would have been more trouble for me than him. I was at my fraternity, Omega Psi Phi’s, party and wearing my gear. He looked around and noticed there were a bunch of my fraternity brothers around. He looked down at me and apologized with a smirk on his face. I acted tough and said, “Yeah, you better apologize.” But I could see in his eyes that look of, you got it this time. I quickly realized I needed SOMETHING to level the playing field. How can I, a smaller guy, deal with a much bigger and stronger opponent? Shortly after that event, I joined a martial arts school called Tai Yim Kung Fu in Kensington, Maryland. Before I jump into my Kung Fu journey, I want to go back to my first real introduction to martial arts. I had a cousin who lost over 80 pounds doing Tai Chi. My cousin recommended I try it. He used a two-part Tai Chi VHS series, old school, with a morning session and an evening session. Every day, I started my day with Tai Chi and ended it with Tai Chi. I was playing football in college at the time and noticed a huge difference in my breathing and flexibility.
Back to my first Kung Fu school. I started at Tai Yim Kung Fu and was learning Shaolin Hung Fut. I was living my dream! This style was similar to what I used to watch in the movies. It was a mix of different styles of Kung Fu, like Crane, Snake, Tiger, long and short styles mixed together. The forms were amazing. My cousin, good friend and I spent several years leveling up, working on forms and sparring. My confidence went up tremendously, and I was moving in a more economical way. One day, I was looking at Kung Fu videos on YouTube and stumbled upon something that said, “Ip Man vs. 10 Black Belts.” I was like, “Who is Ip Man?” I watched the video, and it changed my life forever. I had never seen such a brutal but effective form of Kung Fu before. After a little research, I found out Ip Man was Bruce Lee’s original teacher. My friends and I looked for a teacher in the Maryland area and found Sifu Shannon Moore. We looked him up online and saw a video of him doing Chi Sao, or sticky hands. It’s a drill that helps you develop touch sensitivity and the ability to use your opponent’s energy against them. He was smooth, fast and kind to his opponent. We thought, it’s time to learn a new style of Kung Fu. We reached out, joined his class and my Wing Chun journey began. This is just the beginning... Shalom, Shalom. Sifu Stewart Alaskakungfu.com
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Music
A CONCERT SURPRISE!
Contributed by Doug Ferguson
When a friend of my partner’s mentioned that a free concert by a traveling men’s choir would be held at a local church on July 29, we decided to attend. Having sung in a well-known Men’s Glee Club in the 1950s at the then Case Institute of Technology while studying engineering, I was especially interested. To our surprise and delight, the concert was actually performed by a traveling choir of the Maryland State Boychoir. This was the first of several concerts in Alaska, making it the 49th state the group has visited over the years. Curiously, the only state they have yet to visit is Oklahoma. According to marylandstateboychoir.org, the organization was founded in 1987 with just 14 boys. Its mission is to foster the boychoir tradition while helping talented young singers build self-esteem, self-discipline and character. The late Maryland Gov. William Donald Schaefer named the group an official goodwill ambassador of the state, and the choir later performed at his funeral. Today, The Maryland State Boychoir (MSB), Mary-
land’s “Official Goodwill Ambassadors,” includes approximately 130 choristers, ages 7-20, representing a wide range of ethnic, socioeconomic and religious backgrounds. Members come from nine Maryland counties, Baltimore City and the Washington, D.C. suburbs. The organization welcomes talented boys who love to sing regardless of their families’ financial means. Prior musical training is not required, although an audition is. Auditions are held in the fall, winter and spring. Stephen Holmes, the current Artistic Director and President, started as a choirboy at age 9 and is now in his 20th year as a staff member. He has received many choral honors and conducted concerts for organizations throughout Maryland and the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. region. At my request, he graciously spoke with me after the concert. We discussed my background in the Case Men’s Glee Club in the 1950s and his familiarity
with our director at the time, Dr. Baird Whitlock. I have written about Dr. Whitlock here before as one of my personal Great Americans, someone who took our Glee Club to Europe for a concert tour and had a lasting influence on many young people. I define a personal Great American as someone in one’s youth or young adulthood who not only had a positive influence on you, but on many young people. Certainly, Stephen Holmes should be considered a “Personal Great American” to the many young men who have been part of his choir.
MY EXPERIENCE PLAYING IN AN ORCHESTRA Contributed by Zoe West
music, helping students grow and keeping the community alive. They’re pleasant, helpful and kind-hearted. I’ve really come to appreciate how much hard work and time they put into this orchestra, especially my mom. I’m so blessed to have been able to jump around to every instrument in the orchestra, helping her balance the parts and challenging my brain with new music. Maybe when I started with the orchestra it was because I was asked to, but as an adult, showing up in the same place time after time speaks for itself. If you play violin, viola, cello, bass, piano or percussion and want a community to join, meet new friends, make music, challenge yourself and get better at your instrument, Mat-Su Youth Orchestra can definitely do all that for you. It might be hard or nerve-wracking at first. It is for everyone. But it’s so worth it. www.msyo.org
MID-AUGUST 2026
I first joined Mat-Su Youth Orchestra because my mom told me to. I didn’t have much choice; she was the conductor. That was when I was younger, in middle school, and I didn’t necessarily choose to be part of things because I had the thought to do them. Someone just told me I should, so I did. I believe I started out playing percussion, jumping from triangle to tambourine to bells or whatever else was needed for each song. I remember getting nervous at snack time, our social time, because I didn’t know the kids around me. Mom used to tell us to introduce ourselves to one other person, and sometimes I would. Other times I would pretend to be busy or avoid eye contact so I didn’t have to. But as I kept playing in the orchestra, helping Mom with whatever instrument she needed me on, I started to realize these people are good people. Making music together in a non-stressful environment outside of school ended up being really fun and a good way to challenge myself. My stand mates and I grew closer through the unspoken understanding that we had not been practicing nearly as much as we should have. I got to do a solo on violin and conduct an entire piece for a concert, both scary things that felt doable be-
cause of the support everyone had for each other. I eventually graduated high school, and usually that’s when I would’ve left the orchestra and moved on to my own things. But I kept playing. Making music with other people is such a good experience, so I stayed. I joined a quartet with three other people in the orchestra and had so much fun learning to pull my weight on my violin part. We played publicly a few times, and I grew close with those friends while practicing at each other’s houses and being supported by Mrs. Debbie, one of the amazing teachers. I later went away to college for a few years and, to no surprise, jumped right back in when I returned to Alaska. It was nice to return because I got to see the orchestra in a new way and recognize the hard work that goes into it. The teachers volunteer so much time simply because they care for these kids. Carolyn Harding, Judy Montalbano, Rhonda Hala, Ronna Williams and Debbie Davis have all helped me multiple times and have always been so kind. They love
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Music CHRIS MURPHY BRINGS THE FIDDLE & FOREST TOUR TO ALASKA Contributed by Larry Lee Hansen
I’m excited to announce that Make A Scene Media and 95.5 The Pass are bringing internationally touring violinist, fiddler and singer-songwriter Chris Murphy back to Alaska this fall for the Fiddle & Forest Tour!
What intrigues me most about Chris is his versatility as a violinist and fiddler. His shows can move from an intimate song into a high-energy performance that gets the crowd clapping and stomping. Chris has spent much of 2026 touring Europe, with shows in Germany, Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands
and England. His new album, Songs From the Trees, was recorded with Seth Lakeman in a 16th-century monastery in England and released last month on Teahouse Records. My personal favorites are the title track, “Songs From the Trees,” along with “300 Days at Sea” and “Clean Break.” His music was also recently featured in the MGM+ series The Westies, starring J.K. Simmons, known for his roles in Whiplash and the Spider-Man films. Chris has been composing and performing for more than 30 years, with shows across more than 40 states and throughout Europe. I’m excited to help bring him back to Alaska and give more people here a chance to see him live. Full tour dates will be announced soon, but for now I’m happy to share the first official date: October 1, Everett’s Restaurant / Mat-Su Resort, Wasilla. Hear Chris Murphy’s music and watch live performances at makeascene.media/chrismurphy.
NATALIE GELMAN MOUNTAIN MAMA TOUR WRAP-UP
MID-AUGUST 2026
Contributed by Larry Lee Hansen Natalie Gelman was everywhere this summer! Over six busy weeks, she traveled across Alaska with her husband and two young children, bringing the 2026 Mountain Mama Tour as far north as Fairbanks and south to Cooper Landing. The tour included shows at Burnt Toast, Music in the Park, Anchorage Weekend Market, Fishhook Bar & Grill, Bearpaw River Brewing Company, Denali Brewing Company, The Boatel and more. Gelman spent the Fourth of July performing at Hatcher Pass Lodge, surrounded by some of the best scenery Alaska has to offer. The show went so well she
returned later in the tour for an encore performance. Then there was the Musk Ox Farm. Gelman opened for Australian duo Hussy Hicks at one of the most distinctly Alaskan concerts imaginable: live music, mountains and actual musk oxen. It was easily one of the summer’s most memorable shows. She also performed at the Girdwood Forest Fair and packed Black Birch Books in Wasilla for an intimate bookstore show. The smaller setting gave the crowd a chance to settle in, listen closely and connect with the songs. Two nights at The Boatel marked the tour’s Fairbanks weekend before she worked her way south to Cooper Landing. Some of the best moments happened between the official shows. While their tours overlapped and they were staying nearby, Gelman and fellow touring songwriter Ted Russell Kamp recorded a funny, impromptu Facebook duet called “Stuck in Alaska with You,” proving even a packed tour schedule leaves room for a little fun. Natalie wasn’t only busy onstage. She visited the Alaska Landmine studio for an interview and live performance, and appeared on Alaska’s Fresh Catch, The Big Alaska Show, It’s Alaska Podcast and the Music of America podcast. She also interviewed with Out North Radio and was featured on two Big Cabbage Radio shows, Back Where It All Began and Traveling Music. Her music aired in heavy rotation on 95.5 The Pass and on radio stations across Alaska throughout the tour. Gelman was also featured on The Venue TV Show on
KTUU Channel 2, which showcased her music videos for “Heavy Heavy Heart,” “The Lion” and “The Answer.” At one show, an audience member recognized Gelman and one of her songs after seeing her perform in another state years earlier. It was a small but telling moment that showed how far her music has traveled and how much her recognition continues to grow. Natalie showed up ready to play at every stop. She was prolific, professional, consistent and fully connected with audiences, whether performing at a busy festival or inside a neighborhood bookstore. She left a positive mark everywhere she went. On her third visit to Alaska, and first extended sixweek tour represented by Make A Scene Media, Natalie Gelman reached more communities and listeners than ever before. One thing is becoming clear: she is well on her way to becoming an Alaska household name!
Music BACHMAN-TURNER OVERDRIVE JOINS STATE FAIR Contributed by Melissa Keefe
Rock legends Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) are back, bringing their signature sound and classic hits to the ConocoPhillips Borealis Theatre on Monday, August 31 at 7pm. Led by founding member Randy Bachman, the revitalized band has been packing venues across North America with fan favorites including “Takin’ Care of Business,” “You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet,” “Roll On Down the Highway” and “Let It Ride.” With more than 40 million records sold worldwide and over 120 gold and platinum awards, Randy Bachman has helped shape the soundtrack of classic rock for generations. Now joined by his son Tal Bachman, daughter-in-law KoKo Bachman and an outstanding band, BTO delivers the hits fans know and love along with deeper cuts. Fans can choose between concert-only tickets or tickets
that include Fair admission, discounted and valid only for the day of the concert. Tickets including Fair admission must be purchased by Thursday, August 20. Ticket options and pricing are available at alaskastatefair.org. Convenience fees apply to online purchases. BTO is the final act announced for the 2026 ConocoPhillips Alaska Concert Series, joining AJR on August 21, MEGADETH on August 22, Ziggy Marley on August 23, Amy Grant on August 24, CAKE on August 27, Modest Mouse on August 28, Nate Smith on August 29, BigXThaPlug on August 30, Max McNown on September 3, Twisted Sister on September 4, deadmau5 on September 5 and Lyle Lovett on September 7. More info and tickets: alaskastatefair.org. Contact Melissa Keefe, Director of Marketing and Communications, at mk@ alaskastatefair.org.
www.susitnabrewing.com
5120 S BIG LAKE RD. 907-892-2336
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Coloring Page FIRST NAME
LAST NAME
AGE
MAILING ADDRESS
MID-AUGUST 2026
Send in your coloring page and you can win a gift card to a local business!
HELP US GROW OUR CALENDAR!
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Calendar Funnies of Events
Submit your event & we’ll print it in the next edition! AUGUST August 18 @ 1PM 50ish and Over Hike: Long Lake Loop
Revel Adventure Club Palmer reveltreksandtours.com/events Cost: $15 for non-members August 20 @ 6PM Songwriters in the Round
August 26 @ 6PM The Page Turners Book Club: Aging with Grace
Alzheimer’s Resource Alaska Zoom Meeting 1750 Abbott Road (907) 561-3313
August 29 @ 2PM-5PM Alaska Flower Farm U-Pick Days
Misty at All Dahlia’d Up Flower Farm 1963 South Innerspringer Loop, Palmer Tickets available at mistyvanderweele.com
Uncharted Path LLC Everett’s Restaurant Doors open at 6PM, show starts at 6:30PM
SEPTEMBER
August 23 @ 2PM-5PM FREE Community Hike: April Bowl to Hatch Peak
September 1 @ 10:30AM Valley Garden Club Regular Meeting
Revel Adventure Club Palmer reveltreksandtours.com/events
August 25 @ 1PM Caregiver 101: Creative Solutions to Challenging Situations in Dementia Care
Alzheimer’s Resource Alaska Zoom Meeting 1750 Abbott Road (907) 561-3313
Valley Garden Club Grace Community Church 900 Leatherleaf, Palmer Annual Fee: $20
September 4 @ 7PM & September 5 @ 2PM & 7PM Come From Away
The Glenn Massay Theater 8295 E College Dr, Palmer alistproductions907@gmail.com Cost: $23-$25
September 12 @ 10:30AM NAMIWalks Alaska in the Valley
September 26 @ 11AM-3PM Fall Harvest Festival
September 12 @ 11AM-5PM Turnagain Ceramics Clay Fest 2026
September 26 @ 12PM 2nd Mat-Su Freestyle
NAMI Alaska Iditapark Wasilla, Alaska namiwalks.org/alaska
Turnagain Ceramics 1343 G St., Anchorage hello@turnagainceramics.com September 19 @ 7PM-10PM Roland Roberts Band
Palmer Alehouse Live Music Concert Series 320 E Dahlia Ave, Palmer palmeralehouse.com September 25 @ 5:30PM 2026 Gala for Freedom
Alaska Addiction Rehabilitation Services, Inc. 26731 W. Point Mackenzie Rd, Wasilla Cost: Free
Palmer Chess Club Turkey Red Banquet Room 550 S Alaska Street, Suite 100, Palmer Cost: $20 for non-members October 10 @ 5:30PM-9PM Mystery at the Hotel St. Claire
Wasilla Rotary Club Menard Center Wine, Tapas, Auctions rotarywasilla@gmail.com wasillarotary.com
Set Free Alaska Bryce Ray Community Center 7010 E Bogard Rd, Wasilla Doors open - 5:30PM; Program & Dinner - 6PM-8:30PM setfreealaska.org/gala-forfreedom-mat-su
MID-AUGUST 2026
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Poetry & Prose
THE MESSAGE IN THE BONES – THE READING NOBODY WANTS
Contributed by Tamara Zenobia Mother of the Honeybees living underneath my porch. There’s a particular kind of reading people rarely talk about. Not the one where a loved one comes through. Not the one where you’re told love is on the way. Not even the one where money, opportunity or some grand shift is just around the corner. I’m talking about the reading nobody wants. The one where you’re told what you already know. It’s a strange place to be when your intuition has been speaking clearly, consistently, sometimes loudly, and still you go looking for a different answer. Not clarity. Something softer. Something easier. Something that lets you stay exactly where you are without consequence. But sometimes, the only thing that rises is the same voice you’ve been trying to quiet. And when it meets you again, clear, steady, unchanged, it doesn’t feel like magic. It feels like disappointment.
That subtle shift. That moment where something inside says, “Yes... that’s it.” And just as quickly, “I didn’t come here for that.” Those of you who know the story from the Bible about the man who came to Jesus to ask what he might do to have eternal life know Jesus gave him his answer. Notice I said his answer, not THE answer. Clear. Direct. Unmistakable. And the man walked away. Not confused. Not uncertain. Just unwilling. That’s the reading nobody wants. These are the types of readings I get from time to time where someone walks away quiet. Sometimes even a little angry. They may thank me. They may smile. Some have even tipped me. And still... I can tell. They are not happy. Not necessarily because they believe the reading was wrong. Sometimes it’s because somewhere inside themselves, they know it was right. Then something funny happens. Three months pass. Six months. Sometimes a year. And one day, there they are again. Wide-eyed, staring anxiously into my face. “Yeah. You were right. Can I get another reading?” As a reader, I’ve had to develop a mechanism for shutting off the worry that can come after those sessions. I cannot follow someone home in my mind. I cannot deliberate endlessly about whether they believed me, whether they liked what I said, or whether they will do anything with it. When there is deep conviction in what I have received, I stand by my words. And that’s it. I release them. Because truth does not require me to chase anyone down and convince them it is true. Sometimes a message needs time. It needs life to happen around it. The situation to reveal itself. The thing they already suspected to finally become impossible to ignore. And then suddenly, the reading they didn’t want becomes the reading they remember. Because sometimes the truth isn’t hidden. It’s been
waiting. Patient. Unmoved. Watching you circle it, rename it, negotiate with it. Recently, I found myself on the other side of the table. Listening. Receiving. Realizing what was being said to me wasn’t new information. It was confirmation of something my own spirit had already been trying to show me. Only this time, I couldn’t look away. And here’s the humbling part: It wasn’t that I didn’t want to do the thing. It was that I thought I already was. That shift in perspective? That’s where the real work begins. Because sometimes we’re not resisting truth, we’re misidentifying our alignment with it. We think we’ve surrendered, but instead we’ve negotiated. We think we’ve moved forward, but we’ve made ourselves comfortable in the same place. There’s a certain comfort in still asking. In still wondering. In believing another answer might come. There’s a part of us that wants the magic. The mystery. The surprise. The feeling that something outside of us is about to change everything. But what if the real magic is that you already know? One of my mentors, Mother Alice Lawrence, Saint of Mountain View and a very wise woman, would often tell people when they came to seek advice from her, “I AIN’T TELLING YOU NOTHING! CAUSE GOD DONE ALREADY TOLD YOU. STOP PLAYING AROUND WITH GOD!” What if the answer you’re searching for is the one you keep trying to outgrow, reinterpret, negotiate with or replace? So, I leave you with that and another question: What is the answer you are running from today? That’s your reading for this month after a long summer of no messages from me. Because the reading nobody wants may be the one that changes everything. Liked the message? Holla @ me: Tamarazenobia.com
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