FLY FISHING FILM FESTIVAL COMING TO WASILLA
Contributed by Tica Drury, Trout Unlimited Alaska
Do the short winter days have you missing those long summer hours spent reeling in fish under the midnight sun? Thankfully, there’s an antidote to fuel your fishing addiction.
Trout Unlimited Alaska is bringing the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) to Bearpaw River Brewing in Wasilla on November 11 at 6:30 p.m. The Fly Fishing Film Tour travels to cities across the United States and beyond, showcasing world-class fly-fishing films that capture the beauty, adventure, and excitement of the sport. Trout Unlimited Alaska is thrilled to bring this event to the Mat-Su Valley for an evening that combines storytelling, conservation, and community.
F3T is presented by Trout Unlimited Alaska (TU), whose 15 Alaska-based staff work year-round to conserve and restore salmon and trout habitat across the state. Proceeds from this
event will support TU’s Save Bristol Bay campaign, which has fought for nearly two decades to protect Alaska’s worldclass fishing and hunting destination from the proposed Pebble Mine.
Between breathtaking films, attendees will hear a brief update on ongoing conservation efforts in Bristol Bay. TU will share news of a promising Alaskan-grown solution to the Pebble Mine threat in the form of House Bill 233, state legislation aimed at permanently safeguarding the $2.2 billion fishery, 15,000 jobs, and unmatched outdoor opportunities in Bristol Bay.
In addition to the films and conservation update, guests can enjoy exclusive giveaways, good beer, and great
FROM BACKYARD MOVIES TO A STATEWIDE MISSION: THE STORY BEHIND FILM RANT
Contributed by Bradford Jackson President of Film Rant | Filmmaker | Soldier
I want to tell you a story. Not the kind you find in a movie. Not yet, at least. This is a story about a dream that started when I was seven years old— just a kid in the backyard making ridiculous little movies with my brothers and a camcorder we barely knew how
to use. There were no film programs, no summer camps, no clear path into “the industry”— especially not here in Alaska. At UAA, I studied theatre because that’s what was offered, but my heart was always behind the camera.
Years later, I made it to Los Angeles. I dove into acting and filmmaking. Learned. Trained. Created. Hustled. Won a lot of awards and walked too many red carpets. But eventually, life called me to serve something even bigger—I joined the military.
When I returned home to Alaska, I knew exactly what I wanted to do: give back. That’s why, four years ago, my close friend Carl Weber and I created Film Rant—a nonprofit built not just to showcase movies, but to elevate the quality of filmmaking in Alaska and give others the opportunities we never had growing up.
We’ve been traveling the state ever
since—from Anchorage to rural villages most people never even think about— hosting workshops, mentoring young creators, and showing communities how powerful it is to tell their own stories on screen. It’s not just about cameras or scripts. It’s about culture, confidence, and the art of expression.
What Is Film Rant? Film Rant is more than an event—it’s a movement. We travel all over Alaska educating young filmmakers on how to make movies and tell their stories, but we also host an annual event showcasing Alaskan talent and creating experiences that blend education, community, and hilarious entertainment (because filmmaking should also be fun, right?).
Every Film Rant gathering is a celebration of Alaskan creativity, courage, and chaos—and our next one might be the biggest yet.
Film Rant 2025: This Is Your Invite Saturday, November 8th, 6–10 PM at The Williwaw Social in Anchorage. Come join us for a night of short films created by incredible Alaskan filmmak-
company. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just curious about the sport, F3T offers something for everyone. The screening will take place at Bearpaw River Brewing, 240 E. Railroad Ave., Wasilla, on November 11. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the screening begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online using the QR code provided. Space is limited to 100 seats, so get your tickets early—they’re sure to sell out fast.
Come join Trout Unlimited Alaska for an evening celebrating the spirit of fly fishing, the strength of Alaska’s conservation community, and the waters that connect us all.
ers. Watch the best stories light up the big screen, and celebrate with us as we award the films that moved, thrilled, or cracked us up the most.
All ages are welcome, though please note: many films include mature content (language, violence, and themes), so parental guidance is advised.
Why We Rant Because Alaska needs more than just pretty locations and film permits. We need infrastructure, training, and support. We need the next generation to believe they can be filmmakers—whether they’re from downtown Anchorage or a village no one’s ever heard of.
We believe in storytelling. We believe in our people. And one day—when we bring back the Alaska film tax incentive and start making big productions here again—we’ll look back at all of this and say, “That’s when the shift started.” Until then, we educate. We elevate. And most of all—we entertain. Want to learn more, support our mission, or submit your short film? Submit films at submissions@filmrantalaska.com. For more information, visit filmrantalaska.com.
Film Rant 2025 is presented by Bradford Jackson Films, SickDay Production, and The Williwaw Social. See you November 8.
SWEENEY TODD COMES TO THE GLENN MASSAY
Contributed by Cory Rausa and Kayleigh Lecours
Starting in October, the shadows of Fleet Street descend upon Palmer as Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street takes the stage at The
Glenn Massay Theater. Directed by Cory Rausa (Into the Woods), this dark and chilling tale runs October 24th through November 9th.
First premiering on Broadway in 1979, Sweeney Todd has since become one of Stephen Sondheim’s most beloved - and haunting - masterpieces. The musical tells the story of a vengeful barber, newly returned to London after years of exile, to serve a most sinister kind of justice. Over the years, the story of Sweeney Todd, has been performed across the globe. It’s blend of unique musical elements, biting satire, and macabre wit has made it the perfect fit for the community this Halloween.
With a cast, crew, orchestra, and production team composed of our local talent, this show is a testament to the thriving performing arts community
right here in our own state. The hands and hearts of our fantastic cast and crew is bringing this historical story to life right now on stage; crafting a dark London that shows every bit about the passion for storytelling, music, and theater these individuals represent!
Under the direction of Cory and his team, this production promises to deliver everything that has made this musical an enduring classic, incorporating immersive staging, dynamic performances, and a haunting live orchestra. Audiences will find themselves swept into the foggy streets of a Victorian London with the production value the Massay is known for, that draws people from around the state to attend our venues.
Whether you’re a lifelong theater-patron or simply looking for a unique
KATTAM AND HIS TAM TAMS BRING GLOBAL RHYTHMS TO ANCHORAGE
Contributed by Rowan Holmes
Alaskan students and families are in for a high-energy, globe-trotting musical journey as Alaska Junior Theater presents the electrifying performance
of Kattam and His Tam Tams! Blending world music, storytelling and vibrant cultural traditions, this interactive show is a celebration of rhythm, diversity and pure fun.
A Musical Passport Around the World
Created and performed by dynamic percussionist and educator Kattam Laraki-Côté, Kattam and His Tam Tams takes audiences on a captivating tour of African, Middle Eastern, Indian and Afro-Cuban cultures through the universal language of rhythm. With dazzling costumes, traditional instruments and irresistible beats, Kattam brings stories and music from around the world to life, keeping kids dancing in their seats while opening hearts and minds to global traditions.
Each performance is a concert and an interactive, educational celebration where young audiences are encouraged to clap, sing and move along to the beat of Kattam’s drum. Kattam’s charismatic presence and deep cultural knowledge make the experience both entertaining and enriching, perfectly
night out this fall, Sweeney Todd offers an experience like no other! It’s the perfect way to embrace the Halloween spirit while celebrating the incredible local talent.
Tickets are now available for performances October 24th through November 9th at The Glenn Massay. This show does contain mature themes, strobe style lighting, and graphic special effects (lots of stage blood).Guests are encouraged to do their own research regarding the content prior to purchasing.
So, treat yourself this Halloween, take a loved one to dinner, then go enjoy a spectacular show at the Glenn Massay Theater!
www.GlennMassayTheater.com
aligning with Alaska Junior Theater’s mission of inspiring young minds through the performing arts.
School Shows:
Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at 10:30 AM & 12:15 PM
Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM
Public Performance: Friday, November 7, 2025 at 7:00 PM
All performances will be held at the Atwood Concert Hall in the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts.
Don’t Miss Out! Whether you’re a teacher looking for an unforgettable field trip or a family ready to dance your way around the world, Kattam and His Tam Tams is a must-see. Tickets for the public show are available NOW!
Get Season Tickets and save 20% on Single Ticket prices and get the best seats in the house.
Visit Centertix.com or call 263-ARTS to reserve your seats today.
For more information about Alaska Junior Theater and our upcoming season, visit akjt.org.
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OCTOBER
October 22 @ 6PM
New Rider Skidoo & Lynx Maintenance Clinic Team CC Wasilla Artwork by Sierra Winter Team CC Skidoo Wasilla, 491 S. Willow Street sierrawintersmith@outlook.com (907) 491-5016
October 24 @ 4PM Trick-or-Treat Street
Downtown Palmer / Pavilion area palmerchamber.org/trick-or-treat-street Cost: Free
October 25 @ 9AM
Safeguarding Youth Seminar
Great Alaska Council, Scouting America Continental Event Space, 2830 C St alaskbsa@scouting.org scoutingevent.com/610-safeguard# (907) 337-9547
Cost: $25
October 25 @ 6PM
Samhain Fire Celebration and A Passage to DiscoveryCeltic Community of Alaska Anchorage Senior Activity Center, 1300 E. 19th Ave jocelynpaineak@gmail.com (907) 276-8195
Cost: $25.00
October 27 @ 6PM–10PM
After the Snowfall – MSP Film Fundraiser for HPAC Team Gimp Squad, Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center, & Ira Edwards
The Glenn Massay Theater info@hpavalanche.org
See Facebook Event Page for further details
Cost: $20 in advance or $25 at the door
October 29 @ 5PM–7PM
Paint Night at Wasilla High School
701 E Bogard Rd, Wasilla bit.ly/4nZbfrs $20
October 31 @ 2PM–5PM
Follow the Yellow Brick Road: City Hall Trick-or-Treat
City of Wasilla & 95.5 The Pass
Wasilla City Hall, 290 E Herning Ave info@955knlt.com
October 31 @ 5PM–8PM
Wasilla Trunk or Treat Trek TEAMS Events & Experiences
Citywide Wasilla events@matsuteams.com (907) 215-2949
Free family event with multiple “Trek Stops” connected by free party bus.
NOVEMBER
November 1–2 all day
Wasilla Area Seniors Craft Fair
Wasilla Area Seniors, Wasilla 1301 S. Century Cir
Free admission
November 4 @ 10:30AM
Valley Garden Club Regular Meeting
Valley Garden Club
Grace Community Church, 900 Leatherleaf (907) 982-7570
Cost: $20 annually
November 7 @ 11AM
The Children’s Place Soup and Bread Luncheon 1981 W. Palmer-Wasilla Hwy administrative@tcpak.org (907) 357-5157
November 8 @ 10AM
Mat-Su Holiday Marketplace
Menard Center, Wasilla
Admission $5
November 8 @ 10AM
Lights On for Families
Youth 360
Teeland Middle School, 2788 N Seward Meridian Pkwy
www.youth-360.org (907) 373-3613
November 8 @ 10AM
Free Hearing & Balance Screening
Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers
650 N Shoreline Dr www.fyzical.com/wasilla-ak (907) 315-9174
November 8 @ 4PM
Awakening of Winter 6
Artwork by Sierra Winter & Awaken Productions
Hill Top Ski Area, 7015 Abbott Rd sierrawintersmith@outlook.com (907) 491-5016
Ticket Prices Vary
November 13 @ 6PMSkidoo’s Mike Duffy –Avalanche Awareness Seminar Anchorage
Alaska Safe Riders
Alaska Mining and Diving Supply, 3222 Commercial Drive, Anchorage sierrawintersmith@outlook.com (907) 491-5016
November 20 @ 6PM
Northern Lights Social
Mat-Su Dems
Sweet Gypsy, 173 S. Valley Way waggonerfi@protonmail.com (210) 744-1188
Funnies
Jaclyn, 11 Mary, 66
VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS RADIUM GIRLS
Theatre Events
Contributed by Jenna Worley Executive Director
Valley Performing Arts
In 1926 radium was a miracle cure, Madame Curie was an international celebrity, and luminous watches the latest rage—until the girls who painted them began to fall ill with a mysterious disease. Inspired by a true
story, Radium Girls traces the efforts of Grace Fryer, a dial painter, as she fights for her day in court. Her chief adversary is her former employer, Arthur Roeder, an idealistic man who cannot bring himself to believe that the same element that shrinks tumors could have anything to do with the terrifying rash of illnesses among his employees. As the case goes on, however, Grace
finds herself battling not just with the U.S. Radium Corporation, but with her own family and friends, who fear that her campaign for justice will backfire.
Valley Performing Arts is pleased to bring you Radium Girls, showing every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 10th through 26th.
Tickets at www.vpaalaska.org or by calling 907-373-0195.
TRUNK OR TREAT TREK A FREE, CITY-WIDE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE ON OCTOBER 31
Contributed by Jovan Archuleta TEAMS Events & Experiences, in partnership with local businesses and community organizations, is hosting the inaugural Wasilla Trunk or Treat Trek on Friday, October 31, from 5 to 8 p.m. This unique city-wide event features multiple “Trek Stops” filled
with activities, all connected by two free-to-ride, 40-passenger school buses provided by First Student. These “party buses” will run continuous routes, giving families a fun and safe way to enjoy Halloween night. Participants can start at any designated Park & Ride location to begin their journey. Two distinct bus routes—Gold and Purple—will
service the stops, with buses arriving approximately every 30 minutes. A live map link will be available on the official Facebook event to track bus locations. Look for the red and white informational kiosks topped with gold or purple hexagon signs for boarding areas.
Trek Stops include Wasilla VFW Post 9365, the main event hub at 301 E. Lake View Ave., where families can enjoy an indoor Trunk or Treat, live music by teen band S.O.L., and outdoor tunes by DJ Angel Ray. Guests can return later to vote in the blacklight Cardboard Cosplay Costume Contest. Nunley Park at 250 E. Swanson Ave. will feature classic Halloween short films projected on a train car, family games, and local food vendors. Wasilla City Hall, 290 E.Herning Ave., will host a Wizard of Oz-themed trick-or-treat from 2–5 p.m. before transitioning to a Gold Shuttle stop for families to continue their trek.
Other stops include Good Shepherd Church, 501 E. Bogard Rd., offering pre-event games, candy, and a youthmade “Spooky Tunnel”; Yoga OM, 960 S.Check St., with glow yoga poses and neighborhood Trunk or Treat fun; True North Recovery, 591 S. Knik Goose Bay Rd., serving as a central Park & Ride
hub; and AmVets Post 11 / Fibre & Ice, 951 S. Hermon Rd., hosting karaoke, pool, food, crafts, and the annual sober Halloween party.
Collection bins for coats, clothing, canned food, and new socks will be available at all sites in support of Palmer Salvation Army and Frontier Mission Thanksgiving programs, as well as the AmVets 11 Ladies Auxiliary “Sock-TOEBER” Drive.
Additional Halloween week events include Palmer Trunk or Treat Street on Oct. 24 from 2–7 p.m., Harley Davidson Halloween Party on Oct. 25 from noon to 4 p.m., True North Recovery’s 6th Annual Sober Halloween Party on Oct. 25 at 6 p.m., and the AmVets Post 11 Kids’ Halloween Party on Nov. 1 from 2–4 p.m.
Community members are invited to get involved by donating candy, coats, socks, or canned food, volunteering as site leads or bus hosts, competing in the costume contest, hosting a trunk, or becoming an event sponsor.
For more info, contact TEAMS Events & Experiences at 907-2152949 or events@matsuteams.com. Updates are available at linktr.ee/ matsuteams or on Facebook at facebook.com/share/171NDeRNFC
PARLOR IN THE ROUND COMING TO PALMER
Contributed by Palmer Arts Council Parlor in the Round is coming to Palmer on November 21 at 7 p.m. at the Glenn Massay Theater, presented by the Palmer Arts Council, Well Rounded Arts, and 95.5 KNLT-FM Hatcher Pass Radio, with funding from
Books
BRADEN ROLLINS BARBRA LICA
the Alaska State Council on the Arts and ConocoPhillips.
Now in its tenth season, Parlor is the creation of Wasilla-raised musician and bass player for the Super Saturated Sugar Strings, Kevin Worrell. Worrell is the host and producer of the performance, as well as the director
THE ROBOTZ
of the nonprofit organization Well Rounded Arts, which presents these popular performances.
Parlor began as a concert series in Anchorage but has since traveled all around the state, including performances in Homer, Kodiak, Fairbanks, Skagway, Haines, Talkeetna, Valdez, Bethel, and Hope.
This November, the Valley has the opportunity to watch this engaging showcase performance!
Toronto artist Barbra Lica, Alaska’s Braden Rollins of the Blackwater Railroad Company, and Palmer’s own trio The Robotz—Brian Daniels, Anthony Hastings, and Katie Heller— will be gracing the Glenn Massay stage.
Kevin Worrell will be the host of the evening, tying together the variety of performers. His humor and positive nature will delight audience members throughout the evening and are guaranteed to keep you laughing and entertained. Don’t expect to come to this concert and not participate. After intermission, the musicians on stage will collaborate to create an original piece of music based on suggestions submitted by the audience.
If you have not yet been to a Parlor in the Round performance, it is best described on their website as “Feels like dinner theater. Sounds like a house concert. Looks like improv comedy.” Six songwriters will be featured on stage, sharing songs and stories as they draw inspiration from one another.
Tickets will be sold on the Glenn Massay Theater website. Advance tickets are $25 general admission and $20 for Palmer Arts Council members, or $30 at the door. More info at glennmassaytheater.com.
VOICES FROM AROUND THE MAT-SU BOROUGH
Contributed by Kathy Kysar
Inspired by a group of public library Friends in Idaho who published A Little Book of BIG Stories in 2024, library Friends’ groups in the Mat-Su Borough are planning to make their own book of stories.
This book will be filled with short notes from local library patrons of how they love their library. The testimonials in this book will provide a glimpse into the big work of libraries across our borough, describing the wonder of story times and youth programs, the insight of book clubs and summer
reading programs, and the camaraderie found in crafting meetups and food/ plant swaps. This will be a story of the Mat-Su Borough, as lived through our well-loved libraries. Thousands of us depend on Mat-Su libraries not only to check out books, but to enrich our lives. Like the great Alaska landscape itself, our libraries are an important part of our love of freedom in our land of promise.
Mat-Su Library Patrons’ Little Book of BIG Stories is modeled after Armed Services Editions, of which millions were distributed to U.S. soldiers serving in WWII. The Armed Services Editions
(ASEs) were a series of lightweight paperback books created in 1942 to provide U.S. military personnel with portable recreational reading during World War II. Designed to be compact and easy to carry, they were distributed widely to soldiers, sailors, and airmen in the field, offering both entertainment and comfort in difficult conditions. The program not only boosted morale but also introduced many service members to a wide range of literature.
Today, the Library of Congress holds the only complete collection of all 1,324 ASE titles in its Rare Book and Special Collections Division.
The ASEs are significant not just as wartime morale boosters but also for their lasting influence on American publishing, as they helped popularize the paperback format in the post-war years while celebrating the right to read freely and the power of stories to expand our humanity, even in trying times.
Funding has already been secured for the printing of this project, and we would love to include your story. You can submit your story (preferably 250 words or less) to the follow address: AKlittlebook@gmail.com.
WONKATOBER: TURN-A-LEAF THRIFT STORES BRING WILLY WONKA MAGIC TO THE COMMUNITY
Contributed by Kimberly Kellar, Valley Charities Inc. Marketing Director
Step into a world of pure imagination at Wonkatober! On
Saturday, October 25, 2025, from noon to 3 p.m., both turn-A-leaf Thrift Store locations—400 N. Yenlo Street in Wasilla and 244 S. Sylvan Road in Meadow Lakes—will transform into a whimsical celebration inspired by Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Organized by Valley Charities, this annual event offers families a fun and safe way to celebrate the Halloween season. Kids ages 6 to 12 can enjoy a variety of free giveaways, including a Wonkatober Bar, a Fizzy Lifting Drink, and a Blinking Bling Ring to help them stay visible while trick-or-treating. Each Wonkatober Bar includes a golden ticket with a special prize or a 10% off coupon for one toy. Golden Ticket prizes include fun
items like reusable popcorn cups, candy-themed games, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory DVDs, fruit infuser tumblers, gummy bear making kits, Wonka journals, posters, and more. It’s all part of the magic that makes this community event a sweet tradition for local families.
The fun continues with community partners joining in the celebration. Throughout October, 95.5 The Pass Radio will host daily Wonka Trivia, giving listeners multiple chances to win. Each time you play, your name is entered into a drawing for a $50 Visa gift card from Valley Charities and a $50 gift card to Locals Pizzeria. Winners will be announced on November 3.
Children can also enter a coloring contest in Make-A-Scene Magazine (see page 4) for a chance to win a $25 Visa gift card, a $10 Learning Essentials gift card, and a $25 Locals Pizzeria gift card. Winners will be announced in the November issue of
the magazine.
Visitors to the stores can fill out a drawing slip for a chance to win a pair of premiere tickets to Valley Performing Arts’ Willy Wonka the Musical, which opens March 27, 2026. Entries will be accepted through October 27, with winners announced on October 28 in-store and on Facebook.
To make sure there’s fun for everyone, both adults and kids can enter a costume contest by visiting either store in costume and having their photo taken. One adult and one child winner will each receive a $25 Visa gift card. Winners will be chosen by Valley Charities staff and announced on October 28 on Facebook and in-store.
For more information about the event, visit the turn-A-leaf Thrift Stores Facebook page and join in this sweet celebration of creativity, community, and kindness.
NEW BOOK FROM LOCAL AUTHOR ECOLOGICAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Contributed by Drew Peterson
Ecological Dispute Resolution is a new book that explores mediation and conflict resolution through a unique theoretical lens. Written by attorney and mediator Drew H. Peterson, the book introduces readers to a framework grounded in ecological epistemology, originally developed by Edgar E. Auerswald and Gregory Bateson. With over 30 years of experience in family law and mediation, Peterson
provides practical strategies for resolving disputes fairly, constructively, and sustainably. Drawing on real-world examples, he shows how individuals, families, businesses, government agencies, and communities can find common ground while protecting both human needs and ecological balance. Key topics include creating sustainable solutions, understanding the structure of dispute resolution, breaking impasse, and using ecological concepts to promote healthy living. The book also discusses
paradoxical interventions and the “dance” of mediation, offering tools for fostering dialogue and innovative problem solving. Written in an accessible style, Ecological Dispute Resolution serves as a valuable resource for professionals, policymakers, and anyone interested in sustainable approaches to conflict resolution. The book is available now in paperback and Kindle editions at amazon.com. For more information, contact Drew Peterson at petersonmediation@gmail. com or call 907-687-0606
THE BRIGHT LIGHTS BOOK PROJECT: FAIR ENOUGH
Contributed by Alys Culhane
The Alaska State Fair. There is the beginning, the set-up or assemblage, the middle, and there is the fair itself. And then there is the end, the dissassemblage.
Fairgoers know about the middle portion, which is the fair itself, with all its attractions and distractions. However, most fairgoers are not aware of what’s required prior to, and after the fair, which is the hundreds of human hours that go into creating this time-encompassing venture.
I previously wrote about the Bright Lights Book Project’s involvement in getting ready for, and participating in, the 2025 Alaska State Fair. The BLBP and the BLBP’s partner, Kid’s Kupboard, were fortunate in that we were allowed to occupy the Wineck Barn for the duration of the fair. Here we greeted the public, told them
about the barn and its related family history, and functioned as a muchneeded rest and reflection stop for young and old alike.
The Bright Lights Book Project also put out 12 newspaper boxes along the Red and Yellow Trails areas prior to the fair. These boxes, which were painted by local artists, contained free themerelated books, which I stocked daily with a hand-pulled cart.
I dreaded the fair’s coming to an end because I knew what was ahead.
Those of us who’d worked tirelessly to create a sense of community, would have to dismantle and relocate vendor booths, exhibits, and whatnot.
The BLBP had considerable whatnot to deal with. There were those 12 boxes. There were half-empty bookcases in the Winek Barn. There were those displays that needed to be transported back to the former banquet room of the historic Eagle
Hotel.
The on-site portion of the end stages went more smoothly than expected. The morning after the last day of the fair, I pulled the cart and collected the remaining newspaper box books. I followed my usual route, walking along the Red Trail, the Yellow Trail, and across the Orange vendor parking lot, in the direction of the Alaska State Fair Recycling area. I then removed a handful of books from the Eckhart Garden Box and returned, via the back route, to the Wineck Barn.
The early morning fog had softened the edges of the remaining booths and exhibits. It was fairly quiet – some hammered, some ripped down tarps, some revved their car engines.
This is what, nearly two months later, I remembered about my post fair walk:
I stopped at the plaza area and for one final time admired ASF Head Gardener’s topiary display, the train, surrounded by ravens pecking at stars. Yep, I thought, Becky arose to the occasion and created a display that addressed the theme, “Reach for the Stars.”
I wondered what the 2026 theme might be – Becky and the fair staff would keep this under wraps until the following spring.
I removed books from the black and white newspaper box adjacent to the petting zoo. The geese continued to honk loudly.
I stopped at the Alaska State Fair Recycling Center where Pam Meekin and her crew emptied the last of large plastic bags of water, recyclables, and trash onto the table.
Pete, with the assistance of the LDS fellows, collected and transported the green recycling barrels back to the Alaska State Fair Recycling area.
I met up with Pete and the LDS crew back at the Wineck Barn. They’d gone out with Pete and collected the newspaper boxes. I watched from the Winek Barn doorway as they hoisted the yellow Sutton Alpine box onto the trailer.
Now absent were the crowds, who previously strode in, en masse, at the Red Gate entrance, the Snuggle a Goat Shelter goats, the toddlers who had played in the adjacent area, and as well, the multitudes of fairgoers who had at the giant FA R sculpture, stopped to have friends take their photos, sometimes with the couple on stilts.
I returned to sorting. I hurriedly packed the wagon theme books, the bookcase books, and the themebased story time books. Pete, who was scheduled to transport the books and bookcases back to the hotel, had reminded me that he was on a tight schedule.
I then, with clippers in hand, removed our laminated Alaska Train story walk images from the rails along the walkway leading up to the barn, and put the sheets, quilts, banners, and signage in my car.
I returned to the former banquet room of the historic Eagle Hotel. It took me an additional three weeks to get the fair books sorted and back in their proper places. Add to this, I had fallen behind on my BLBP duties, one of which included writing my September Make a Scene article and another of which included setting aside books for next year’s ASF. It was the end; that is, until 2026 when there will be another beginning.
Alys Culhane is the Executive Director of the Bright Lights Book Project. She is pleased to note that she did not get stuck in traffic this fair season.
WASILLA MUSEUM TO HOST ANNUAL DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS EXHIBIT AND EVENTS
Contributed by Alma Ortega
As autumn settles into the Valley, the Wasilla Museum and Visitor Center invites the community to take part in its annual exhibit, Recuerdas (Do You Remember), honoring the traditional holiday of Día de los Muertos. The exhibit will be on display from Wednesday, October 1st, through Saturday, November 1st, and will feature artwork from Fronteras Spanish Immersion Charter School.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a holiday deeply rooted in
Mexico and celebrated in many parts of Latin America. Blending ancient Aztec rituals with Catholic traditions, the holiday coincides with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (October 31–November 2). Historically, this was also the time of harvest festivals, when food and offerings were shared with the deceased. Today, Día de los Muertos is one of the most important cultural celebrations in Mexico—marked by colorful altars (ofrendas), joyful gatherings, and traditions that emphasize remembrance rather than mourning.
Though often compared to Halloween, the mood of Día de los Muertos is not one of fear but of celebration. Families prepare offerings of food, flowers, and personal mementos to welcome back the spirits of their loved ones. The altars serve as a bridge between the living and the dead, creating a joyful opportunity to remember, honor, and celebrate those who have passed on.
This is the fourth year, the Wasilla Museum will feature a community display, and residents are encouraged to contribute photographs of loved ones, including pets, to be included in the exhibit. Photographs and personal mementos can be dropped off at the museum Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and collected after the exhibit ends.
In addition to the exhibit, the museum will host a series of free public events with support from the Valley Arts Alliance:
Sugar Skull Decorating — Saturday, October 11th, 1:00–3:00 p.m. in the historic townsite schoolhouse and open to all ages.
Storytelling: La Llorona and Short Stories — Thursday, October 23rd, 6:00–8:00 p.m. at the museum. This event is recommended for attendees ages 14 and older. Light refreshments will be served.
Exhibit Reception — Saturday, November 1st, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the museum. Light refreshments will be served.
“We are excited to share this rich tradition with our community,” said museum staff member, Alma Ortega. “Recuerdas is a time to reflect, remember, and come together to celebrate life.”
For more information about Recuerdas and upcoming events, visit www.cityofwasilla.gov/253/Museum, or contact the museum at 907-3739071.
Poetry & Prose
YEA THOUGH I WALK
Contributed by Robert Lyons
Hiking in the valley as shadows fall upon the grave of the one who rallied the calm.
None like the outcome.
Trees grow along the trail as naivety speeds the pulling of the veil.
Where we thought we were is now in the past, lasting is the swing of the hammer on the nail.
A scarcity of common decency surrounds, recently the pendulum has shifted fast.
Stammering opinions into the ethos as soon as we feel the weight of abundance or lack thereof, plenty or none, for good or for spite, nothing lasts except time itself.
We reluctantly follow the trail to the clearing, hardly with clarity we can see the leaves of autumn aren’t peaceful, but pieces of our lives left showering down to the ground.
Fear not the end, nor the trials of humanities’ journey, but only the coming storm of wintery cold that fills the hearts of young and old.
Evil fantasies may lurk as rhetoric is made to hurt the next coming down from hillsides into the cleave, in between the trees and the creek, the trail laid bare, in eternal regret.
GROWING OLD
Contributed by Susan Lee
Old age ain’t for sissies, My brother said to me.
You’re not getting any younger sis, Just you wait and see
I laughed and shook my head as, I’m always you er then he.
The years have passed and brother dear, It’s true I finally agree!
WARTON’S LAST WINTER
Contributed by Anthony Irsik
T’was the first winter for many in Warton, Who recently moved from summer tents, The weather was akin to their Minnesota home, But few had experienced such darkness,
A few pioneers had seen it before, John Bugge was one of those few, Who could help the poor cheechalker colonist, Endure ‘neath Matanuska in its winter hue,
Palmer lacked its water tower, But recently finished its snow-white school, The teachers lived in the yellow inn, Transition from Warton to Palmer was through,
T’was the very thing foreseen, As the goal of the valley’s pioneers, But as Palmer’s wind blew Warton away, The new era brought about some tears.
THE GAZEBO
Contributed by Yvonne Moss
Like poems in baskets, gazebo bound — Red peonies sway.
Their potted homes, hoisted — Circling the gazebo.
Colorful flowers hang in sunshine or rain — Waiting for another day of what may come.
Just waiting for — Tomorrow.
A fine place to call home, they cling — All around the eaves.
Looking from above, you can count them all — 1-2-3-4.
The spacing of a clock’s hands at 3-5-7 and 9 — I watch them.
Viewing with perspective in mind, their showy hues defuse —
Distorting their features into darker shades.
Challenging the painter and paints.
THE WICKED WITCH OF WILLOW
Contributed by Wendy Brooker
The Old Wicked Witch of Willow felt the incoming winter chill, so –she hopped on her broom set the speed to ‘VROOOM!’ and flew South with her pet Armadillo
SMILE
Contributed by Han
A smile is a small gesture that expresses an interest and is a first step towards getting to know someone better! I am sending you a smile, I would love to know you more.
I am 100% genuine in my search to hopefully meet someone special and with whom together we can start as Friends and from that strong foundation hopefully build a life lasting relationship.