MID-SEP
2024
Mat-Su Filipino Community
Annual Gala & Ball
Join us in making our borough the healthiest in Alaska. Become a member today!
healthymatsu.org/ membership
T
-E RE
C LE
ednadevries.com
Edna Paid for by Elect Edna, 1025 Woodstock Palmer, AK 99645
Mat-Su College Teams with Food Bank
INSIDE THIS EDITION:
MORE ON PAGE 2OF THE PEOPLE’S PAPER
Contributed by Lhing McNeal
Aspenyarrow Releases New Project
MORE ON PAGE 14 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE
Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums Fall Concert MORE ON PAGE 15 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE
The Matsu Kabayan Annual Gala and Ball is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and camaraderie that brings together the vibrant Filipino community in the Matsu region. This year’s gala, held on [Event Date], promises to be a night filled with elegance, entertainment, and the enduring spirit of bayanihan that defines the Filipino diaspora. Since its inception, the Matsu Kabayan Annual Gala and Ball has grown into one of the most anticipated events on the community calendar. Organized by Kabayan Inc. – Filipino American Community of Mat-Su, the gala serves as both a social gathering and a fundraiser aimed at supporting various community initiatives. The event has a rich tradition of excellence, drawing attendees from all walks of life, including local leaders, business owners, families, and friends who come together to celebrate their shared heritage. This year’s gala is set to be a spectacular affair, with the theme “Sinulog Festival, the grandest festival in Cebu, Philippines, transforming the venue into a lively, rhythmic, and vibrant settings that reflect as one of the most important events in the religious history of the Philippines as it paved the way the birth of Christianity in the country. Guests are invited to don their finest attire—be it traditional Filipiniana or formal evening wear—to match the evening’s sophisticated ambiance. The night will begin with a grand reception, where attendees can mingle over cocktails, accompanied by live music. Following the reception, a sumptuous dinner featuring a fusion of Filipino and international cuisines will be served, offering guests a culinary journey that celebrates the rich flavors of the Philippines. Entertainment is always a highlight of the Matsu Kabayan Gala, and this year is no exception. The program will feature performances by our very own Kabayan Inc. dance troupe in collaboration with the Filipino Community of Anchorage Alaska (FCAA) dancers and J1 Anchorage Filipino Teachers. Special
performances by our teens sharing their talents while keeping and preserving their culture. The main presentation will be the “Sinulog Dance” It is a dance ritual in honor of the miraculous image Santo Niño (Little Jesus) which was presented by Ferdinand Magellan when he first came to the island of Cebu in April 1521 as a gift to the island ruler Rajah Humabon. These performances not only showcase the artistic talents within the community but also serve as a reminder of the cultural roots that bind everyone together. Another much-anticipated part of the evening is the awarding ceremony, where we will present the Scholarship award and recognize the achievements of our young adults. The night will culminate in the grand ball, where guests can dance the night away to a mix of traditional Filipino music and contemporary hits. The ballroom will come alive with joy and laughter as old friends reunite and new connections are made. While the gala is a night of celebration, it also serves a greater purpose. Proceeds from the event will go towards funding community projects, scholarships, and other initiatives that support the Filipino Community in Mat-Su. The Kabayan Inc. has long been committed to uplifting the community through various programs, and the funds raised from the gala will help sustain and expand these efforts. A celebration of unity, culture, and the spirit of giving back. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the community, this gala offers a unique opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality that the Filipino community is known for. Don’t miss out on what promises to be an unforgettable evening. Mark your calendars for September 28, 2024, and join us at Raven Hall for a night of elegance, entertainment, and shared joy. Let’s come together to celebrate our heritage and support the future of our community. For more information on how to purchase tickets or become a sponsor, please call or text Lhing (907) 322 9463, Rhea (720) 951 1231, or Shiela (907) 315 4556.
Mat-Su Concert Band Fall Concert
MORE ON PAGE 11 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE
Questions about placing an ad or submitting an article ? EMAIL: INFO@MAKE A SCENE.MEDIA PHONE NUMBER: 907-373-2698
Kabayan Inc. 2023 Gala & Ball “Unique Culture of Mindanoa”
Mat-Su Emergency Preparedness Expo
MORE ON PAGE 4 OF THE PEOPLE’S PAPER
Volunteering with Mid-Valley Recycling
MORE ON PAGE 15 OF THE PEOPLE’S PAPER
Support Locally Owned Media FOR AS LITTLE AS $8.00 PER MONTH
& RECEIVE A COPY IN YOUR MAILBOX EVERY MONTH! www.MAKEASCENEAK.com/SUBSCRIBE
907-373-2698