Make A Scene December 2025

SEPT

5-7 2025 READ MORE ON PAGE 7

PAGE 2

Theatre

WHY THEATRE MATTERS IN THE MAT-SU VALLEY

GROWING CONFIDENCE, COMMUNITY, AND CREATIVITY CLOSE TO HOME

MID-DECEMBER 2025

Contributed by Elizabeth Stout If you ask a young performer why they love theatre, the answers are often joyful and immediate: “It’s fun.” “I get to pretend to be someone else.”

“My friends are here.” But behind the costumes, laughter, and applause, theatre does something deeper—especially here in the Mat-Su Valley. It builds community. It gives young people a place to belong. It provides structure, expression, connection, and opportunity in a region where access to the arts isn’t always guaranteed, and where distance, winter isolation, and limited enrichment programs can leave students searching for connection.

That carries special weight in the Mat-Su Valley, where for many families, community organizations provide the only consistent pathway to performing arts education. When students participate in organizations like MASCOTarts, VPA, Alaska Theatre of Youth, or school drama clubs, they’re not just performing—they’re filling an educational gap.

Through rehearsals, script analysis, staging, and performance, students develop reading fluency and comprehension; memory and focus; verbal and nonverbal communication; and critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and executive functioning

skills. Youth in the Mat-Su Valley are facing real challenges. According to the 2024 Mat-Su Public Health Report, 42% of teens report persistent sadness or hopelessness, and nearly one in four have seriously considered suicide. At the same time, school engagement remains an ongoing concern, with graduation rates hovering near 80% and chronic absenteeism increasing. Research shows that participation in the arts, and theatre in particular, is tied to higher academic motivation, improved emotional regulation, and increased school connectedness.

Theatre provides community, purpose, and belonging—key protective factors identified by the Alaska Mental Health Trust and the CDC. In short, the more meaningful opportunities our youth have to connect, create, and belong, the stronger and healthier our community becomes. For some kids, theatre isn’t a hobby—it’s a pathway to confidence, purpose, and hope. As one MASCOTarts parent put it, “My child didn’t just find theatre—they found their people.”

Research doesn’t just show that theatre is beneficial; it shows that the benefits deepen when opportunities expand. Communities with multiple, layered arts pathways see stronger outcomes in

leadership, creativity, civic engagement, and school success. Our community is growing faster than almost any region in Alaska. With new families arriving every month and schools facing budget restraints, youth programming and enrichment infrastructure must scale to keep up.

When there are more classes, more productions, more rehearsal spaces, and more opportunities at different developmental stages, young people don’t just try theatre—they grow with it. More theatre programs mean more children included rather than turned away; more students finding their niche, whether acting, costumes, tech, directing, or writing; more families engaged; more performances bringing the community together; stronger partnerships with libraries, schools, the borough, and local businesses; and a stronger creative workforce in Alaska.

In a region where distance can create isolation, abundance matters. The more stages we build, the more voices we hear.

The more we invest, the more young people step forward. When a child in the Mat-Su Valley steps onto a stage, they step into possibility—the possibility to grow confidence, empathy, creativity, leadership, and voice. The research proves its value. Our youth feel its impact. Our community strengthens because of it.

The Mat-Su Valley is uniquely Alaskan: mountains rising beyond neighborhoods, moose crossing sports fields, auroras dancing above winter skies.

Our children grow up surrounded by wonder, and theatre gives them a space to process, express, and celebrate their lived experience. Whether rehearsing indoors with fresh snow outside, performing Shakespeare under summer sunlight, or bringing new Alaskan stories to life, youth theatre reinforces local identity and strengthens community pride.

Our voices belong here. Our stories belong here.

The arts belong here. Theatre doesn’t just transform individuals—it transforms entire communities. This is why theatre matters, especially in the Mat-Su Valley, and why having more theatre matters even more.

Ready to find your people, your stage, your community? MASCOTarts spring classes are open. More info at MASCOTARTS.org.

MAGICIAN’S NEPHEW COMING TO VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS

PAGE 3

Theatre

Contributed by Jenna Worley

Valley Performing Arts continues their Golden 50th Season with the production of CS Lewis’ “The Magician’s Nephew”, dramatized and adapted for stage by Aurand Harris. This is the forerunner to the well-known and much-loved story, “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe” - which was VPA’s popular Holiday production last season.

David Meneses returns as the director of this classic fantasy. “Magician’s Nephew” will run January 9th through January 25th at the Valley Performing Arts Theatre, located at 251 W. Swanson Ave. in Wasilla.

There will be showings every Friday night, Saturday night, and Sunday afternoon. CS Lewis’ familiar characters of Aslan and Jadis are included in this prequel, along with several new and exciting characters.

Which is fitting since the talented cast is made up of several familiar and seasoned VPA actors, as well as some new faces. For more information about the cast and characters, follow Valley Performing Arts on Facebook.

January 9-25, 2026 Tickets are available online at www.vpaalaska.org or by calling (907) 373-0125

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Radio • Newspaper • Graphics • Social • Websites • Video • Events

A free monthly newspaper written entirely by Alaskans

A great mix of new songs, classics, and local music.

MID-DECEMBER 2025

HATCHER PASS RADIO

PAGE 4

Coloring Page FIRST NAME

LAST NAME

MID-DECEMBER 2025

AGE

Send in your coloring page and you can win a gift card to a local business!

MAILING ADDRESS

HELP US GROW OUR CALENDAR!

PAGE 5

Calendar Funnies of Events

Submit your event and we’ll print it in the next edition!

DECEMBER

December 24 @ 11AM, 1PM, 3PM, & 5PM Christmas Eve at ChangePoint Mat-Su

ChangePoint Mat-Su 615 E Strathclyde Lane 907-646-4821

December 13 @ 10AM-2PM Christmas Bear & Blanket Drive

JANUARY

Karma Kafe AK 3400 East Cottle Loop Suite #800 907-841-5005 December 19 @ 5PM-8PM Winter Solstice Festival

January 3 @ 11AM Winter Blues & Reflexology w/ Ellyse Stock

Anchorage Parks and Recreation Cuddy Family Midtown Park, 210 E 40th Ave 907-343-4355

All About Herbs 4621 East Palmer-Wasilla Highway, 104 (907) 376-8327

December 20 @ 11AM-4PM Pictures with Santa & Play

January 5 @ 6PM Perspectives Class

Dig N’ it Kid Zone Meadow Lakes City Center, 244 South Sylvan Rd 907-252-3141

December 20 @ 9AM Community Hike: Lazy Moose Solstice Adventure

Revel Treks & Tours 2955 Mountain Trail Cir, Palmer, AK 99645, Lazy Mountain Trailhead To register, visit https://www.reveltreksandtours.com/ events/lazymoose December 20 @ 10-5 & December 21 11-5 Last Minute Christmas

February 7 @ 5:30PM Wasilla High School Band Mardi Gras Fundraiser

Wasilla High School Band 701 Bogard Road, Wasilla High School Gym TYLER.MARTIN@MATSUK12.US Cost: $21 in advance or $26 at the door February 7 @ 11AM Tallow For Your Skin w/Caii Alexander

All About Herbs 621 East Palmer-Wasilla Highway, 104 (907) 376-8327

Perspectives 16005 E. Shawn Dr., Lazy Mountain Bible Church (808) 375-5305 Cost: $285 – discounts available

January 10 @ 9AM Winter Ladies’ Only Outing Sauna & Cold Plunge

Adventures by True North AK Eklutna Tailrace, 13145 S Old Glenn Hwy 907-691-8909 Tickets available at adventurealaska.net

January 17 @ 6:30PM Nike Shoe Giveaway

Alaska Vendor Shows Palmer Train Depot, 610 S Valley Way December 21 @ 4PM Winter Celebration Concert

FEBRUARY

LIFELINE OUTREACH Steller Secondary School, 2508 Blueberry Rd https://www.FeedingAlaska.today mariakrinock@gmail.com

Mat-Su Concert Band The Glenn Massay Theater 8295 E College Dr matsuconcertband@gmail.com Tickets available at matsuconcertband.org or $5 at the door

January 30 @ 7PM – January 31 @ 11:30PM WinterRomp 2026

Blackwater Railroad Company Palmer Train Depot, 610 S Valley Way Blackwaterrailroadco@gmail.com Tickets available at tixtree.com

MID-DECEMBER 2025

We’re more than a community paper! We also run 95.5 The Pass KNLT-FM, and offer other media services too!

PAGE 6

Funnies

MID-DECEMBER 2025

Finn, 8

Miriam, 12

IDITAPARK / WONDERLAND PARK 594 W NELSON AVE, WASILLA

NEW YEAR’S

FIREWORKS DECEMBER 31 ST

6:30PM FREE COFFEE, COCOA, CIDER, AND S’MORES AT THE RED PAVILION (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST) 7:59PM COUNTDOWN AT THE RED PAVILION (OR BY TUNING IN TO 95.5 KNLT-FM FROM YOUR CAR) 8:00PM FIREWORKS BLAST OFF — SYNCED TO A MUSIC MEDLEY ON 95.5 KNLT-FM & IN THE PARK

PAGE 8

Music

BLACK VIOLIN RETURNS TO ANCHORAGE ALASKA

MID-DECEMBER 2025

Step into the world of GRAMMYnominated duo Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus, where classical violin and hiphop rhythms collide to create something entirely new, electrifying, and soulstirring. Their Full Circle Tour honors their artistic journey, returning to their roots with the wisdom, experience, and creative fire earned along the way.

Alaska, get ready. Black Violin is coming back for one night only, and this is a performance audiences won’t forget. Join Alaska Junior Theater on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM for a one-of-a-kind concert experience.

Step into the world of GRAMMY-nominated duo Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus, where classical violin and hip-hop rhythms collide to create something entirely new, electrifying, and soul-stirring. Their Full Circle Tour honors their artistic journey, returning to their roots with the wisdom, experience, and creative fire earned along the way.

From the moment the first bow meets the strings, you feel it: the energy, the purpose, the connection.

A story of resilience, reinvention, and the power of music: From high school orchestra classmates to trailblazing artists known worldwide, Wil and Kev have forged a path defined by courage and imagination. They’ve shattered stereotypes, blended genres, and opened doors for countless young musicians

to follow. Through the Black Violin Foundation, they reach more than 100,000 students each year, empowering young people to see themselves in the arts and to pursue what once felt impossible. Their live show reflects that mission, brimming with passion, hope, and boundary-pushing creativity.

Black Violin brings not just a concert, but a celebration of growth, artistry, and the beauty of coming full circle.

Make it an unforgettable night with the Black Violin VIP experience: Tickets are limited. The VIP package includes one premium reserved ticket in the first six rows; an invitation to a private pre-show experience with access to part of the soundcheck; an intimate Q&A session with Wil and Kev; a photo opportunity with the artists; a commemorative VIP laminate; VIP access to merchandise with a 20% discount; and early entry to the venue.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan, a lover of live performance, or someone who craves an experience

that moves you to your core, this night is for you.

Don’t miss your chance to witness music that defies categories, uplifts communities, and reminds us that sometimes the journey forward begins by coming back to where it all began. Black Violin’s Full Circle Tour is calling. Will you answer?

About Alaska Junior Theater: Alaska Junior Theater (AJT) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing world-class performing arts experiences to young people across Alaska. For 44 years, AJT has connected students with professional artists from around the world through live performances, educational programs, and community engagement. Committed to accessibility and inclusion, AJT inspires creativity, sparks imagination, and nurtures a lifelong love of the arts in Alaska’s next generation.

Tickets are available at Centertix.com or by calling 263-ARTS.

BUILDING COMMUNITY ONE BOOK AT A TIME

Contributed by Alys Culhane The Bright Lights Book Project I had no idea that five years after its inception, I’d be at the helm of a literacy-related nonprofit. The Bright Lights Book Project began when I found a handful of books in a Gaylord at VCRS, the Palmer-based recycling center. I kept a few and passed the rest on to friends.

I was soon motivated to do something about the overabundance of books in our community. Others, who also believed that books that still had a shelf life should be gotten into the hands of appreciative readers, began assisting me in this endeavor.

I would have been surprised had I then been shown a crystal ball and seen a self-image kneeling

next to a bookcase and reading a book to a handful of rapt children. Rather, I would have been cautionary, of course wondering what might follow.

What followed were recorded as a series of images that are now on my cellphone. I recently looked at them in disbelief because I could not envision, as the following indicates, what would transpire: a community-based literacy project.

A synopsis of one afternoon’s images verifies this.

First, there is an image of my partner Pete, who in our backyard is cutting down a spindly spruce tree.

The next image is of Pete carrying the tree into the former banquet room of the historic Eagle Hotel.

The next image is of him setting the tree trunk in a bucket of sand. The next image is of a child watering the tree.

Other images follow. There is one photo of Cathy Stone, BLBP artist in residence, cutting images out of older, no longer readable books, and another of her gluing these images onto bookmark-sized mat board. Cathy has several helpers who, in subsequent photos, are preparing the bookmark ornaments for hanging. There is also the image of the decorated tree, complete with a starfish ornament on the very top.

In yet another series of photos, BLBP volunteer Annetta Goode constructs a Christmas village. There’s one of me, grinning as I put my donkey statue, last year’s Christmas present, in the village path, crushed glass provided by VCRS. I scan through the subsequent images and do a volunteer count. On this particular day there are fifteen in total, ranging in age from one to 86 years old.

Some are cleaning, some are stamping, and some are sorting books. Two are looking at books by their favorite authors. One child is reading a copy of The Snow Globe to another.

No, I could not have envisioned what the photos show: a wonderful day in which community members worked side by side, companionably, for several hours. And, as I realized in looking at these photos, this was not an unusual day. The Christmas tree and

PAGE 9

Books

decorations—well, that was unusual.

In re-examining the photos, I with a start realized that what has come to be came full circle. I’m my father’s daughter, and as such was destined to take what he envisioned a step further.

In 1974 my father opened an independent bookshop in Hillsboro, New Hampshire. He called it Country Lights; this was reminiscent of Lawrence Ferlinghetti’s City Lights bookstore in San Francisco, California. He envisioned a bookstore in which community members would linger and talk about books. The bookstore setting, with wooden floors and bookcases, encouraged this.

A word to the wise: don’t ever open a bookstore in a dying mill town. If you do this, the odds are that you, like my father, will go broke and have to close your doors. I spent two summers at his shop, talking with him about what I was reading. The community ethos, however, never materialized.

I liked the idea of owning a bookstore. However, I knew better than to emulate my father, for the odds were that it would fail. I also eschewed competing with Fireside Books, which is a Palmer-based independent bookstore. I also wasn’t keen on Pete’s idea that we form a nonprofit. However, this was the right thing to do for future funding from diverse sources.

The sense of community that now goes hand in hand with the Bright Lights Book Project materialized in a serendipitous fashion. Volunteers spent considerable time talking with one another, and those dropping off or picking up books picked up on the good vibes and lingered. Hosting events such as Children Read to Dogs and elementary school field trips has added to the BLBP ambience.

In looking at the above-mentioned photos, I noted that, indeed, I had carried out my father’s unrealized legacy.

Alys Culhane is currently working on a memoir in which she uses her Make a Scene articles as triggers. It’s entitled Shelf Life: A Book about an Overabun-dance of Books.

MID-DECEMBER 2025

PAGE 10

Music

MAT-SU CONCERT BAND CELEBRATES HOLIDAY SEASON WITH

TWO FESTIVE PERFORMANCES

MID-DECEMBER 2025

Contributed by Mat-Su Concert Band Mat-Su Concert Band’s holiday concerts are right around the corner, ringing in the peak of the season with a combination of festive tunes, seasonal melodies and an Olympic homage.

The “Winter Celebration” concerts take place at the Glenn Massay Theater at Mat-Su College at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20 and 4 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 21. Ticket prices are $20 for adults, $5 for students, and free for children 5 and under. Tickets are available at matsuconcertband.org and at the door.

The concert features seasonal selections including “A Christmas Festival” – Leroy Anderson’s medley of popular holiday tunes – as well as other popular numbers including “I Saw Three Ships” featuring an unconventional ship’s bell and music from the “The Polar Express” movie.

The band will display their choral skills with the hauntingly beautiful “On an Olde Christmas Carol” and celebrate the brightness of the season with “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” along with several numbers marking the ethereal stillness of the Alaskan winter.

This concert will also pay tribute to the upcoming Winter Olympics with pieces including “Summon the Heroes” by John Williams and “Across the Halfpipe,” the third movement of “Minnesota Portrait” by Samuel Hazo.

Trumpeter Doug Sheaffer will be featured on a “A Trumpeter’s Lullaby.”

The band will be conducted by the band’s director, Tyler Martin, who also serves as director of the Wasilla High School band program.

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, who led the group through its transition to an independent nonprofit organization.

Today, the band is made up of about 60 musicians from many different walks of life who come together to make music every week during the school year. Rehearsals are held Monday nights at Wasilla High School.

For more information about the band, including becoming a member, please email contact@matsuconcertband.org

Mysticism MANAGING LONELINESS DURING THE HOLIDAYS Contributed by Tamara Zenobia

Question: “I’ve lost a lot of people over the years due to various changes in life, and the holidays are getting lonelier and lonelier. I’m not sure I know how to do the holidays alone. I know this may sound strange, but what is this season supposed to look like for someone like me? I used to be surrounded by close family, big gatherings, noise, warmth, familiarity—and to me that is what the holiday is.

I’m struggling with the emotions that the season brings up.

What does a person like me do during this time of year?”

Response: Loneliness is more common during the holidays than most people admit. You’d be surprised how many people are surrounded by loved ones and still feel that quiet ache, that sense of being unseen, unnoticed, or somehow on the outside of the celebration looking in.

I’ve felt that way myself more than once. Sometimes being alone is easier than feeling invisible in a crowd. Personally, I’ve come to prefer spending the holidays alone, not out of sadness, but because it gives me a chance to breathe, to reflect, to sit with myself in a way I don’t get to during the rest of the year. It can feel surprisingly magical to let the world be loud while you choose to be quiet.

But to your question, “what does a person like me do during this time of year,” I can hear the tenderness in that— the grief, the longing, the shift.

To be honest, there isn’t one straight answer, but I can offer a few gentle places to begin. First, who is “a person like me”? Are you an empty-nester? Someone who’s always defined the holidays by togetherness? Someone who felt part of something because of the people around you?

Life has changed, and now you’re seeing yourself in a new light. That can feel jarring, but it also means there’s space opening up for a new version of you to enter. The holidays may not look like they once did, but that doesn’t mean the warmth is gone—it simply means it’s arriving differently.

It’s okay to miss what was. It’s okay to wish things were how

FORESIGHT GCQUAD

Golf Simulator Work on your golf game all year long!

they used to be. But remember, the essence of this season is joy, and joy can take many shapes.

Give yourself permission to create a new version of the holiday, one that honors where you are now. Ask yourself gently who you are without all the noise, bustle, and obligation; what this quieter holiday reveals about you; what you actually enjoy when no one else is directing your plans; if you had the freedom to choose anything, where you would go, what you would do, who you would want to be with; and what would make this season meaningful to you, not to the world.

Sometimes loneliness isn’t a void—it’s an opening, a doorway into a version of your life that belongs entirely to you. You are not losing the holiday; you are rediscovering it, slowly, gently, and on your own terms.

And to the many out there who may be experiencing something similar, if this holiday feels different, that’s okay.

Different doesn’t mean less meaningful. It means life is asking you to create new traditions, new warmth, and new ways of belonging. I hope you give yourself permission to explore that with tenderness. If you find yourself needing connection, insight, or just a place to put your feelings, send your questions my way at tamarazenobia.com.

CONTACT US TODAY TO SCHEDULE! SCAN QR CODE TO BOOK

907-521-0151

www.SLEEPYHOLLOWGOLFAK.com

d27d4d

Great Beer, Great Food, Great Local Events & Music

-WED 12p - 10p HOURS SUN THURS & SAT 12p - 12a

Place To-Go Order Call (907) 745-6374 LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED AT THE BASE OF HATCHER PASS // 9231 N. PALMER FISHOOK, PALMER

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.

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.

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.

Matanuska Electric Association Charitable Foundation (MEACF)

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.

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 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 highschool 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 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 Lekker, located at 105 S Valley Way Unit 3, Palmer. Next to 203 Kombucha. 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 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.

WINTER’S COLD

Contributed by Yvonne Moss Subzero nights bring Stabbing chill but warms to ice Ensues a heatwave.

My mind’s awareness Never sleeping with windchill Intensifies it.

SNOW GLOBE WORLD Contributed by Annie C.

On the mantle at home is a snow globe, A pretty wee bit of a world; It sparkles and shimmers and dances, Whenever it gently, Around and around, Whenever it gently is whirled.

Just a boy and a girl and a little pine tree, In a wonderland world that I love to see; A feathery whirl and a Christmas tree, And he & she.

When I’m walking with you in the forest, And pause for a lingering kiss, And feel your hand slip into mine, Not a thing can compare, No never, no never, Not a thing can compare with this.

Just a boy and a girl and a little pine tree, In a wonderland world where I love to be; A feathery whirl and a Christmas tree, And you & me.

A feathery whirl and a Christmas tree, And you & me.

PAGE 13

Poetry & Prose PROOF

Contributed by Katherine Baker When deceit denies there is truth, until confronted with the proof, then anxiously tries compromise, as a substitute for the lies, there’s no remorse for what’s occurred, cause of their sorrow, caught assured.

FIGHT

Contributed by Robert Lyons A star shining bright Shepherds talk under the light Grace wins over plight

NEIGHBORLY LIGHT (A CHRISTMAS CAROL) Contributed by Nan Potts At Christmastide when snow dost fall There sparks a sign that’s seen by all, That’s season’s end is come to pass Which fill the heart of lad and lass.

And with the snow the darkness wanes For there are lights, warm from panes, Lighting the place that we call home Tell us to rest instead of roam.

So we heed this neighborly light We’re beckoned in and stay this night, With loving friends and family, round To celebrate Christ’s birth, abound.

With neighbors true and full of love We give our thanks to God above.

To all our friends and those brand new, Our love we send, including you.

NOT A TEAR Contributed by Dave Glenn, 101st Airborne, Vietnam 1965-66 Not a shed tear to be seen No mourning family on hand All his old friends have gone before him Only a cloudy sky overhead to mark this day A chilly breeze in the air.

His beloved flag covers his coffin The only tribute he requests The hole is dug to receive this old soldier A bugle will announce his departure A granite stone will mark the spot There is no more to be done on earth MID-DECEMBER 2025

Let the angels welcome him to eternity and God to say well done

PAGE 14

Activities

Happy Holidays

WINTER WORDSEARCH

WWW.MAKEASCENE.MEDIA | 907-373-2698

www.susitnabrewing.com

FUN MAGIC SHOWS! Book for your next birthday party or event!

907-775-1877 curtisnickerson@icloud.com

5120 S BIG LAKE RD. 907-892-2336

Poetry & Prose

WAITING FOR PAPER

DELVING THE DEPTHS

Contributed by Yvonne Moss

The last viable petunia dangles from a bare, snaking green stalk.

What the Spring and Summer produced, Now battered by swirling breezes and chilled air, Is at the mercy of the of Mother Nature.

What was vibrant pinks and velvety purples, Interlaced with the sky blues of Lobelia, The showy basket now, about the gazebo, Is down to their last gasp of beauty, Dropping petals, as drops of tears, Saying farewell, “We won’t be here much longer.

It’s our time to go!”

My opportunity to paint these lively colors has passed And my memory of their crispness, fades as the days roll on; My watercolor paper still has not arrived!

Sadness mixed frustration, gnaws at my psyche.

Why has my panting paper been delayed?

I do not understand how this happened, This lovely subject matter shriveling with the changing seasons, And no paper to be had.

My disappointment of putting the time and effort into, Initially drawing and planning this painting, Depresses me, “Where’s my paper!”

I cry.

I look outside to see the first frost of Winter, All life in the baskets is gone.

Light and shadows have changed, What was foreword has receded into darkness.

What was the dark, remains dark; A monochromatic world.

“Now, what do I paint?”

My paper arrives! Relief and joy is felt.

But, what do I paint?

Gloom and despair set in again.

With lack of color and subjects lost, What to do? I close the blinds.

The next morning arrives with a blanket, snowy white.

Shadows float as foam as upon a sparkling sea, It glistens.

Showy, snowy flakes reflect and glow, Creating a field of diamonds, Glistening, gaily from the morning sun.

A sigh of resolve, Escapes my lips; I have paper.

Here is a beautifully cold subject matter.

Now, to prep my paints.

Watercolors, with their own mind and mystique, Take me on an unexpected journey.

Contributed by Katherine Baker

It is not about flaws or perfection It is about acceptance.

It is not about theories or conspiracies It is about full disclosures.

It is not about psychological mind games or transparency It is about our free-to-think society.

It is not about subjectivity or objectivity – It is about our shared reality. It is not about leaders or followers – It is about participation.

It is not about the extremes of the left or right – It is about adhering to reason.

It is not about control or oppression It is about equality.

It is not about our similarities or differences It is about our humanity.

It is not about this race or that race – It is about the human race.

It is not about male or female – It is about unity.

It is not about young or old It is about our common life journey.

It is not about Protestant or Catholic – It is about Christ & Christianity.

It is not about Republicans or Democrats It is about Americans.

It is not about legal or illegal immigrants It is about the shared American ideology of freedom.

It is not about radical violence or law compliance It is about the security of our nation & our nation’s people.