ASF invites public to fundraising banquet to support Alaskans affected by Typhoon Merbok

PALMER — The public is invited to join Buffy Meyers with FishOn! Camp Grill to support the communities impacted by Typhoon Merbok in Western Alaska Saturday, Oct. 1 at 12 p.m. at The Gathering Place located within the Alaska State Fairgrounds.

A severe storm hit Alaska’s vulnerable west coast village residents, fish-camps, hunting grounds, villages, and ports Sept. 17.

According to a recent press release, the storm left many Alaskans without power, water, communication- and in some cases, food and shelter with winter looming around the corner.

Some communities lost airfield and port access, while others lost subsistence camps and stored harvests.

Alaska State Fair partner, Alaska Community Foundation developed The Western Alaska Disaster Recovery Fund to get resources out to residents and businesses in need immediately. All proceeds will be donated to Typhoon Merbok relief.

According to the press release, the upcoming banquet is made possible by the generous donation of FishOn! Camp Grill alongside contributions made by local vendors and suppliers.

Banquet guests will receive exclusive access to the famous recipes at the grill, along with early entry and parking access, early viewing of the silent auction items, and a private door prize event.

There will also be an opportunity to view native performances and artistry at the Dena’ People’s Stage, learn about subsistence foods, participate in a silent auction, listen to educational speakers, and participate in song and dance invitationals.

Those who do not to come early can still enjoy the rest of the festivities with a general admission ticket, beginning at 1 p.m.

Those who bring a donation of canned goods or shelf-stable emergency food items can purchase discounted general admission tickets.

“Join us Saturday, October 1st at The Gathering Place on the Alaska State Fairgrounds to support our relatives and community impacted by Typhoon Merbok in Western Alaska. Enjoy an afternoon with FishOn! Camp Grill at The Gathering Place and help us get resources to those in need up North!” Meyer stated in the press release.

For more information, visit alaskastatefair.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com