It’s time for Page Two: News that might not make the front page on Friday October 17, 2025.
We are all stunned by devastation across Western Alaska left behind by Typhoon Halong and the toll it has taken on families and communities.
Alaskans don’t stand by, we step up. We ask, “How can we help?”
The quickest and easiest way to help is to contribute money through foundations and relief organizations.
The Red Cross encourages financial donations, noting that money allows for faster and more flexible relief than physical goods. Contributions can be made at redcross.org or by calling 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767).
The Alaska Community Foundation launched the Western Alaska Disaster Relief 2025 Fund to support residents from Kwigillingok to Kotzebue. Cash donations can be made online
Donations can also be make to the Salvation Army.
The Mat-Su VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) is supported by United Way Mat-Su and helps coordinate local relief efforts. It posts regular updates on relief efforts and how to help on its Facebook page, including where to donate physical goods.
And it’s not only people that need help. Dog food and supplies are welcome donations wherever items are collected. The August Fund for Alaska Racing Dogs is seeking foster homes for pets. Check out their Facebook page, The August Fund, for more info.
Here are some things happening this weekend.
The Palmer Fire Department celebrates Fire Prevention Month with two events this weekend:
Friday is movie night at Fire Station 32 at 5955 Glenn Highway in Palmer with Disney’s Lilo and Stitch. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the movie starts at 6 p.m. Popcorn is provided. Please bring a chair or blanket to sit on.
On Saturday, stop by Fire Station 31 at 717 Cobb St. in downtown Palmer between 10:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m. There will be an information table, a kids obstacle course, fire extinguisher training, and more.
Fridays and Saturdays in October it’s Nightmare At The Museum from 6 to 9 p.m. Walk through a haunted train and then hop on a haunted hayride that will carry you through the boneyard of old planes, trains, and automobiles. And watch out for zombies. Admission is $13. This event at the Museum of Alaska is a benefit for Family Promise Mat-Su.
The Holiday Bazaar in Raven Hall at the state fairgrounds is on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bright Lights Book Project hosts a dog themed story time on Saturday: Kids Kupboard will provide lunches at noon, followed by the storytime at 1 p.m. at the Eagle Hotel in Palmer.
Have spooktacular fun on the trails on Saturday from 4 to 6 PM on the Pioneer Loop at Government Peak Recreation Area. Tickets are $10 per trick-or-treater and kids under five are free. Kids can wander a path of decorated stations, collect treats, and enjoy Halloween festivities! This is a fundraiser for our Junior Nordics program, Bring your costumes and candy buckets. More information is at matsuski.org.
On Sunday October 19 there is a Trick or Trot Fun Run with a 5K, 1K, a diaper dash, and a costume contest. It starts at 2:00 p.m. at Palmer High. Participation is free, and donations are accepted. All funds will benefit CCS Early Learning.
If you missed the Election Connection event hosted by the Mat-Su Sentinel, you can watch the recording.
Page Two articles are written by Emily Forstner and Lee Henrikson. If you have an idea for a Page 2 topic, please email us at page2@radiofreepalmer.org.
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That’s it for the news today on Page Two on Friday, October 17, 2025.