Make A Scene December 2012

Mid Dec 2012

FREE!

www.MakeASceneAK.com

Locally owned & operated in the Mat-Su, Alaska > Ice Pyramids Palmer, Page 19

Happy New Year!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: > Local Author’s ‘Awakening’ now available Page 22

> Egyptian Mommy and More at Palmer Museum Wasilla, Page 18

PALMER PRESENTS >

Page 16

REGISTER NOW for the Spring 2013 Semester

matsu.alaska.edu View Campus Life!

www.cityofwasilla.com 357-9100

Do you truly want to get the most out of your advertising dollars at a genuinely reasonable cost?

If so, consider the Menard Sports Center to display your business or group advertising. The Menard Sports Center is visited by hundreds of thousands of patrons every year. These include local and state-wide sporting events, conventions, fund raisers, consistent use of the ice arena, parents of Turf for Tots, a walking-running track, and steady use of the three meeting rooms.

Your signs will be displayed year-round and will not only advertise, but show the community your support for a tremendous facility. A visual tour is available on the City of Wasilla web site. Choose departments, choose the Menard Sports Center, and click on the virtual tour.

Welcome to our new advertisers: Alaska Waste and Denali Orthopedic Surgery.

And thank you for our renewal customers: C&C Auto Care, MTA, Kendall Auto Group, Special Events Alaska, and Dave Tuttle Insurance. These and other up-coming renewals are greatly appreciated. See our price list on this ad...

1001 S. Mack Drive, Wasilla

3’ X 8’ SIGN - $500.00 ADDITIONAL SIGNS: $500.00 THREE YEARS PRE-PAID: $1300.00 EACH SIGN: SAVE $200.00 ICE ARENA DASHER BOARD: $1000.00 ADDITIONAL DASHER BOARDS: $1000.00 EACH THREE-YEARS PRE-PAID: $2800.00 EACH : SAVE 200.00 MEETING ROOM SPONSORSHIP: $750.00 ADDITIONAL ROOM SPONSORSHIP: $750.00 THREE-YEAR PRE-PAID: $2050.00 EACH ROOM SAVE $200

MAJOR SPONSORSHIP OF THE ICE ARENA IS NEGOTIABLE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP OF THE BUILDING IS NEGOTIABLE THE CURTIS D. MENARD MEMORIAL SPORTS CENTER IS VISITED BY HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF PATRONS EACH YEAR. YOUR ADVERTISEMENT WILL BE SEEN

BY PEOPLE FROM THE LOCAL AREA AS WELL AS INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS FROM ALL OVER THE STATE.

Louise’s Farm School Wins This Year’s Farm to School Challenge

By Alex Wilson, APU MSUEE Graduate Student The results from this year’s Alaska Farm to School Challenge have been tallied and totaled. October was national Farm to School Month, and the Alaska Division of Agriculture did its part by encouraging schools statewide to participate in the challenge. The challenge’s aim is to encourage healthy, local eating habits in Alaskan young people in through friendly competition. Advocates for Farm to School programs remind the public that these kinds of programs are beneficial for both the health of the students, the community awareness of local farmers, and for the overall health of generations to come.

Forty programs which educated more than 10,000 students participated in this year’s competition. The projects and programs included farm visits, school gardens, school lunches prepared with

all local foods, and visits from Alaskan Grown representatives.

See us on Facebook @ Louise’s Farm School

Louise’s Farm School, a homeschool supplement program in Palmer, was recently declared the winner of this year’s Alaska Farm to School Challenge. Part of Louise’s Farm School’s mission is “To nourish healthy lifestyles with local nutritious foods.” This is paired with nature exploration, project and place based education, ecology and the fostering of an overall healthy lifestyle through the development of outdoor skill sets.

While most schools dedicated the month of October to Farm to School activities, Louise’s Farm School participates in Farm to School year round! The school is lucky to be located on Alaska Pacific University’s Spring Creek Farm, making fresh, local foods readily available on the campus. This fall, students harvested potatoes, carrots and peas; they helped put the farm fields “to bed” for the winter; they tended the school’s own flock of backyard chickens; they visited a local farm to milk a real cow; they made cheese from local dairy; and they celebrated national farm to school day with a locally grown food pyramid made from local

Continued on Page 9

Outdoor Environmental Education for Homeschoolers Ages 5-13 Hike, ski, snowshoe, explore!

Science and Nature Studies Field Trips & Guest Speakers 700-acres of Fields & Forests Hands on Projects Nutritious snacks Small classes, LOTS of FUN!!

Currently enrolling for our 5 week Winter session January 28 - March 1 2013 (907) 746-2714 mrock@alaskapacific.edu 6 Different programs to chose from!

www.springcreekfarmak.org

4

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Contributed by Linda Conover Early Numeracy Workshop When: Tuesday, January 15, 2013 10AM-12PM Where: Mat-Su Central School Auditorium What: Early Numeracy (Involving counting, place value and more place value, equivalents, size, shapes, number recognition and number values)

Winter Conservation Series From Wasilla Soil & Water Conservation District The inaugural Winter Conservation Series is being co-promoted/co-hosted by the Wasilla Soil & Water Conservation District (WSWCD) in conjunction & close partnership with the Palmer Soil & Water Conservation District. It is a mutual, beneficial effort to substitute the doldrums of winter’s darkness with a visionary introduction to planting bountiful gardens & developing doit-yourself practical projects for implementation during the spring-summer season. Topics vary widely through a range of Conservation interests. They include basic gardening, soil investigation, water-edge restoration, frame construction, & projects/activities that can be implemented by property owners & possibly renters. All sessions have been formulated to primarily provide a cookie cutter recipe to inspire & motivate participants toward planning & action. Sessions fol-

Dec 2012

Two Preschool Workshops with Shawn Evenson offered

Home Educators Workshop When: Tuesday, January 15, 2013 1PM-3PM Where: Mat-Su Central School Auditorium What: Helping parents to prepare for home schooling their child. Parents will learn concepts to help instruct preschoolers using the four basic learning styles of auditory, visual, kinesthetic, and tactile.

Childcare will be provided. The home educators workshop will be limited to 40 parents. Please RSVP for the workshops to Linda Conover, linda.conover@gmail.com, and reserve daycare.

low an education format experienced

by Wasilla’s District Manager during his undergraduate days @ Penn State University. This “ALL U” program featured free classes offered by volunteer instructors in diverse topics from A to Z. Self-help class offerings were created by qualified people willing to share their particular passions. It is a forum where people participate to simply “learn”. The District’s Conservation series massages that concept by directing the sessions toward responsible stewardship & appropriate uses of land & resources. Alaskan experiences, trials & tribulations, as well as failures & successes will add to the flavor of the sessions. Basic, tried & proven information with advice & instruction by seasoned, local presenters will increase project success.

All sessions are scheduled for 7:008:30 pm, Thursdays: Jan 17- March 7, 2013 @ the North Fork Building , 1700 E Bogard Rd on the lake side adjacent to the Mat Su Resort entrance. Presenters are all volunteers.

Session registration is on a first contact, first reserved basis & is limited to a maximum of 22 folks.

Continued on Page 7

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year from: Denise, Chris, Tracy, Patty and Stephanie at...

Downtown Palmer 745-2258 OPEN Mon-Sat 10:00am-6:00pm

Gourmet Food Unique Gifts Coffee & Teas Candy Candles Copper River Fleece Ice Cream Bath & Body NonEssentials is proud to be located in Beautiful

DOWNTOWN

PALMER

Live It Upsom!

The Lessons of Hospice

By Dean Q. Mitchell, local film

By Kellie Coulson

Dec 2012

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

6

Local Man Remembered:

907-373-2698 (office) 888-383-9909 (fax) makeasceneak@mac.com www.makeasceneak.com ..........................

producer Originally written for the cast and crew of Proper Binge on November 12th, 2012.

Make-A-Scene publishes 10,000 copies monthly.

We distribute to Wasilla, Palmer, Meadow Lakes, Big Lake, Eagle River & Anchorage. We’re always growing thanks to our contributors, our advertisers, and to you the reader!

A member of the Proper Binge crew has passed on this day; a very multi-talented, generous and rather fun guy by the name of Daryl McKenzie.

Thanks for helping Make-A-Scene!

Most of you never got the chance to meet Daryl but, I assure you, he fit right in.

He was the owner of local business “The Print Lounge”, and he supplied us with the soon-to-be famous t-shirt Bradford wears throughout the film; it sports Daryl’s life motto, “Live It Upsom”. He printed Linus McTweed’s design for the “Book of Drinking Alphabetically” and Jeremy’s “A,B,C & P” shirt. He also printed Chad Carpenter’s “Unacceptable” design onto Ron’s tank top. He did all of this without ever asking for anything in return. He was happy to assist in any way he could and it pains me that we weren’t able to get him, at the very least, a cameo in the film. He was a cheerleader for Proper Binge and he was proud to be a part of it.

..........................

Submitting Articles & Calendar: To submit content for print, visit our website for guidelines: www.MakeASceneAk.com Deadline is the 10th of each month.

Submissions are not accepted via Facebook.

Advertising: For information on advertising rates, current sales flyers, deadlines, professional graphic design and more, please call 373-2698

Disclaimer: MakeASceneAK.com, and the parallel paper edition of our monthly news service, is a forum for our community. Both exist for the benefit of our local community, serving as a virtual meeting place for the ideas, thoughts, news, and information that the folks in our community choose to contribute. The articles and opinions herein are the property of the author, not the publisher. The publisher and editor assume no responsibility for injuries or loss incurred by anyone utilizing the information herein, or responding to the advertisers.

I’ve known him and his family since I was in my single digits and over the summer I got to know him again, as an adult. He was a cool cat. He will be missed by many.

My heart goes out to his family and to his friends...

Probably the most important aspect of my dad’s death, the aspect that made it easier for him, was that I told him what was coming. My dad was a cowboy. While I never spent time contemplating his death, had I been told that his death was close a year before it happened and asked to guess how he’d go, I would have speculated that he’d go via air off the backside of a horse. He was a daredevil at 68, and he often acted like he was 17. As it was, one evening he had a stroke which marked the beginning of the end of his life.

After several months of doctors trying to piece together what was wrong, and nurses telling my mother that older people simply die and my mother saying that healthy people who are only in their 60’s don’t just fall ill like he had, a doctor was willing to do exploratory surgery and discovered cancer with no point of origin.

When I flew down to be with my parents in Tucson, my plane landed a half hour before my dad had the surgery that would tell him that he was dying soon.

The doctor and nurses were supportive, but there was nothing that could be done. I would spend a few days in the hospital with him placing my hands on him and feeling “runners” under his skin, with occasional nodules. I told his doctor about this and where they’d be coming up next.

His doctor said I was guessing, so I got a black marker and showed him, and the next day

my point was proven. My fingers could feel that there was a net of nodules with runners shooting out of them forming through his muscle tissue, the nodes forming cancerous black bumps that you could see through his skin.

It was 2006 and Alaska had an very important election. He had extremely valid personal issues with a candidate who I was supporting. In retrospect, I probably shouldn’t have worn paraphernalia sporting my support of the team that candidate was on, but in the end, with our way of communicating and the fact that he really enjoyed annoying me and my determination to defend what I felt was right, it was good for us both. He said to me that he’d not “go” until it was too late for me to go home and vote! I told him that he was silly; when I flew down to help out, I knew I’d not vote because there were things to do after he died and supporting my mother was more important than returning home to fill out a ballot. Even in his weakened state, he waved his hands at me and yelled that he believed none of that and he was going to make sure that I would not make it to the polls to vote for the candidate who he did not like.

The most important class I ever took was in college on death and dying. I had even used my knowledge and volunteered with a hospice group in South Central Alaska. In this manner, I was the hospice worker because everything happened so fast once he got the diagnosis where the clock started ticking, signaling the end. My dad told

Continued on Page 23

Winter Conservation Cont.

January Schedule for the Winter Conservation Series hosted by the Wasilla Soil and Water Conservation District: Jan. 17th Ground Floor Introduction to Alaskan Gardening Jan 24th 42 Reasons Why to Sample MY Soil!

Jan. 31st Living with Salmon: Shoreline Stewardship & Restoration Opportunities for Landowners FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Chuck Kaucic at 357-4563 X 103

The preferable registration technique is to send an email requesting a roster space in a specific session to: distmgr@ wasillaswcd.org . If email is not an option, call 357-4563 X 103. When sessions are full, a waiting list will be maintained.

Should a situation arise where a person cannot attend & has a reserved space, folks are requested to exercise courtesy & inform the WSWCD office prior to the day of the session. Recommended topic sessions/presenters for the 2014 Series can be made by contacting either District office. (PSWCD – 745-1441; palmerswcd@alaska.com) WSWCD & PSWCD are tax exempt, nonprofit agencies formed in 1947/48 to support District residents varying Conservation needs. Check out their web sites for further info: WSWCD @ www.wswcd. org & PSWCD @ palmersoilandwater. org.

WINTER CONSERVATION SERIES SESSION DESCRIPTIONS 1) Thursday Jan 17; 7:00 – 8:30 pm Ground Floor Intro to Alaskan Gardening - The “Introduction to Alaskan Gardening Program” is designed to introduce gardeners to the fundamentals of gardening in Alaska. The power point presentation topics include season extension, fertilization requirements, soil sampling and more. The focus is on dealing with the challenges of growing in Alaska. This session is oriented to the 1st time gardener. The following helpful resources will be distributed: “Recommended Variety List for Southcentral Alaska”, “Soil Sampling” and copies of the slide presentation. The program was developed by Dr. Steve C. Brown, Associate Professor, District Agriculture Agent, Cooperative Extension Service.

Presenters: Carol Kenley, John McNeal, WSWCD Board Member/farmer; & Chuck Kaucic, WSWCD District Manager.

2) 42 Reasons Why to Sample MY Soil!

– The session will provide information

on the characteristics of Valley soils & planting nutrient needs; the reasoning behind & absolute necessity of testing; techniques; test results/analysis & application.Wasilla Soil & Water Conservation District’s Soil, Forage & Manure/Compost Sampling service will be explained. Participants will leave this session with a method to increase production for flower & vegetables.

Presenter: Jeff Shmeenk, Palmer Soil & Water Conservation District 3) Thursday Jan 31; 7:00 – 8:30 pm Effective Stream Bank & Lake Shore Restoration Techniques Participants will gain a full understanding of the need & techniques available to restore impacted areas. Examples of Valley restoration projects will be showcased. An extremely useful 91 page, color illustrated manual “Streambank Revegetation & Protection: A Guide for Alaska” will be distributedTraining & funding opportunities will be discussed.

Presenter: Amber Bethe, Habitat Biologist, ADF&G

8

Community

Milestone for Valley Recycling

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Contributed by VCRS On December 21, the Valley Community for Recycling Solutions will mark the 2nd anniversary in their new build-

Keeping Your Pets Safe During the Holidays

By Angie Lewis, Vice President of Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue Celebrating the holidays can be such a wonderful experience for many of us.

The smells, foods, decorations, and gifts make this very enjoyable. Being surrounded by our pets is a true joy this time of year. However, the holiday season can be very dangerous for your pet if you are not cautious.

Meet Buster Contributed by Alaska Dog

Dec

2012

And Puppy Rescue Clearly, Buster is a very handsome Black Lab, who is just 7 months old. As is often typical for Labs, he is full of energy and requires daily exercise. He needs more than just a backyard to play in; he loves running, hiking, and playing with other dogs! We all know that a tired dog is a good dog. He is excellent around small and large dogs, regardless of their age.

He is fully house-trained and has great house manners. Buster has lots of love to give and enjoys snuggling with you and hanging out on his dog bed with a chew toy or bone. Because of his high energy, he would do best in a home with

ing, 10 years of operating a recycling facility and Mat-Su Borough Recycles Day. Community spiritual leaders are invited to participate at 1:00pm in the blessing of our operation and facility, the resources recycled and all who pass through our center.

Call 745-5544 for more information.

Let’s start with the Christmas tree. If you use a real tree, make sure that the water in the stand is covered, so that your pet cannot drink it. The pine sap is not safe for ingestion. Also, it is best to turn off the lights to your tree when you are not home.

Pets might chew on the cords and get electrocuted, and can also get tangled up. Do not use tinsel, ribbon, or other glittery items, as these are very enticing to pets, particularly cats. Ornament hooks can be swallowed and cause damage to intestines. Decorating the bottom part of your tree with decorations that are made of wood or plastic, that won’t children over 10 and very active families.

He loves car rides and is an excellent traveling companion. Buster is crate trained, but he also does well being left out. Buster is still working on his leash manners, but is very trainable and eager to learn.

Buster and his foster parents are currently taking applications and reviewing them. Buster wants to make sure he finds just the right home, so if you are interested in meeting him, please send his foster mom a completed questionnaire.

Please email Emily at: Emily.adpr@gmail.com You can find the application on the ADPR website – akdogandpuppyrescue.com

Valley Community for Recycling Solutions “Together, We Are Turning It Around” P.O. Box 876464, Wasilla, AK 99687 phone 907.745.5544 fax 907.745.5569

break, can prevent intestinal blockages.

Gifts that contain human food can present problems for your pet. Chocolate, raisins, onions, coffee, tea, and alcohol are delicious to us humans, but are quite dangerous for animals. Foods such as yams, sweet potatoes, and canned pumpkin (minus spices) are safe for your pets to eat.

Although plants add to the ambiance of our holiday celebrations, there are more than 700 plants that are toxic to pets.

Poinsettias and mistletoe are dangerous to animals. So, keep these plants out of reach of your four-legged companions, or buy artificial plants.

Our vision is to establish the Matanuska-Susitna Borough as a model recycling community for Alaska. Our mission is to educate and provide opportunities in our community to reduce, reuse and recycle for the long-term good of all.

Burning candles can be a concern this time of year. Put these candles in areas that are not accessible to your pets. Do not leave the house with candles lit, at any time. There are battery operated candles that can be used with safety in mind.

So, if you are feeling as though there are too many restrictions on your holiday experience, just imagine this time of year, or any time of year, without your faithful companions at your side. This will make the decision to be safe an easy one. Enjoy the holidays with your animal companions at your side.

Farm School Cont.

potatoes, broccoli and green onions along with cheese and butter the students made and moose donated by a local hunter. The list could go on!

The directors, instructors, students, and parents of LFS are honored to be nominated this year’s Challenge winners.

The students have already constructed their new first prize award, an in-class growing station for seed germination

next session. They are also excited for a visit from the Alaska Farm to School crew this coming spring!

Louise’s Farm School is registering for our 5 week winter session! We offer 6 different programs to choose from for homeschoolers aged 5-13.

All our classes include: - Outdoor Exercise - Science and Nature Studies - Field trips and guest speakers - 700 acres of fields and forests!

- Hands on projects - Nutritious snacks - Small classes and lost of fun!

Enrolling now! www.springcreekfarmak.org Session runs from Jan.28 until March 1, 2012

Palmer Historical Society monthly meeting

MAT-SU CONCERT BAND IS SEEKING NEW MEMBERS: Especially bassoon, clarinet, percussion and trumpet players but everybody is welcome

The Palmer Historical Society meeting will be held on Jan. 16th, 2013 at the PalmerPublicLibraryandisopentothepublic.

Douglas Cruthers, from the “MatSu Dirtfishers Association” is back by popular demand.

He will update us on his latest “digs.”

Refreshments will be served and door prizes awarded. Come join us for a night of history and fun!

Dec 2012

Look forward to an update on the 1953 crash site of an F89-C Air Force jet which occurred in the Wasilla area. Mr. Cruthers will let us know whether he and Mr. Ken Ray found any more interesting details.

Mr. Cruthers spoke to us in April just before the snow melted. He’ll be sharing about his most recent investigations and explain the interesting finds he has discovered during his digs here in the Matanuska Valley.

By The Palmer Historical Society

We gather at 6:30 pm and the program begins at 7pm.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

During other parts of the year, LFS students start seedlings indoors, learn how to successfully compost food waste in Alaska, hatch chicks, and learn about the campus’s state of the art greenhouse. Louise’s Farm School weaves these hands-on themes through every lesson with interdisciplinary curricula in math, science, reading, art and physical activity. Some of the students even want to become farmers when they grow up.

9

Community

10 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Dec 2012

Community What’s In a Name?

By Josh Fryfogle ‘Pen Name’ - a fictitious name; esp. one used by an author.

Many famous and not-so-famous people have used ‘pen names’, for various reasons. Maybe their name was difficult to pronounce, or lacked a poetic quality. Other times they were protecting their other professional endeavors controversial opinions can often affect someone’s workaday life.

I’ve written many controversial political opinions, and received my fair share of scowls and snide comments from those who disagree. Good thing I’m thick-skinned and self-employed!

My opinions often exist in a no man’s land, somewhere between the illusion of left and right. Because of this, I catch hell from both sides of the political paradigm. So, I can totally understand why some people don’t want to ‘put their name’ on their opinions. We live in a fickle world, where some folks are apt to punish you socially, or even economically, if you speak your mind.

Still, not speaking our mind is exactly how the world around us has drifted so far from the will of the people. We’ve let a small group of people use public humiliation as a scare tactic to stop us from speaking up.

All of the content you read in Make A Scene comes from people just like you, people with opinions, causes, things they care about. For over five years I’ve found that many people with passionate ideas, derived from real-world experience, are reluctant to write their informed opinions so that the rest of us might benefit. Teachers, politicians, religious leaders, union members, corporate suits, many of these people are scared to speak, for fear of retribution that might affect their financial security.

What is the loss to our culture and society when these words go unwritten? It’s a form of pre-censorship, selfsuppression. Future generations will suffer, and social wrongs continue, unchallenged.

If you have something worth writing about, don’t let fear stop you! Don’t let social persecution prevent you from your freedom of speech and freedom of press! If we all shared our thoughts, without fear of what the powers-thatbe might do to us, we would find that we’re all thinking the same things.

Fear is not freedom.

Don’t you think it’s time to right some wrongs? Isn’t it time to write what’s right?

Send in your thoughts, with or without your real name. It’s up to you, whoever you are.

Thank God for the ‘pen name’!

Make A Scene!

Maybe you’re a musician, surrounded by liberal friends, who will reject you if you shared your secret conservative ideas. Maybe you’re a military member who is against war. Maybe you’re more than what society wants you to be.

Maybe you’re a complex human being, not fitting into the pigeonhole that was prepared for you without your input.

Content submissions can be emailed to makeasceneAK@mac.com

CONSUMER WARNING! Regarding: LED and LCD Televisions Do not buy LED televisions, and consider the facts before you buy LCD televisions. There is no such thing as an LED television. LCD and LED television screens are virtually identical. The backlight (a fluorescent or LED light behind the screen) is the only difference. Feel free to ask why.

LED backlights, when exposed, can cause severe retinal damage in children and adults. Also, overheating has become a major problem in many brands.

Your television must have screen protection! Cracked screens are not repairable. Do-it-yourself screen protection is simple! Save yourself from a small financial disaster.

Before any purchase, protect your investment! Please contact ComTronics 373-2669 - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday

Forgiveness Forgiveness.

Start by forgiving yourself so that you can forgive others. And your heart, body and soul will not suffer. It will be strong and youthful for much longer.

It is a way to living for a reason. If we do not forgive and we do not forget, then we end up being old, cold and alone.

Phil White is a local singer-songwriter, neighbor, son, brother, and friend of Make A Scene. He is forever young.

By Phil White

And literally from our mentality our bodies will physically start to break down faster and hurt. Our minds and souls will confuse and crush us, leaving our hearts weak and broken.

But if you forgive, even the darkest days wont look grey. Do not blame others for the past that makes you who you are today. You made that choice. Now use the choice for the good. Use it to make a difference.

We’d like to thank our listeners and advertisers for another wonderful year, and we look forward to serving the Valley in 2013!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, from our families to yours:

12

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Dec 2012

The Gift That Keeps On Giving!

Shopping Local for Christmas!

By Josh Fryfogle As Christmas approaches, many of us bide our time, waiting till just the right moment. We know that with patience and consideration, the perfect gift will just jump out at us at just the right time, and everything will come together perfectly!

Okay, really I’m just a procrastinator. I wait till the last minute, trying to decide what to buy, and for whom… Choices, choices, choices…

The Mystery of Christmas

By Al Christian Not since Adam (1 Cor 15:45-49) had a man been born without original sin (Psalm 51:5). The Christ child was made immaculate, conceived without physical means. Made holy, to restore the children of God to their previous state, where Adam walked with God and spoke with him directly.

Mary, the mother of God, was found to be with child, and her husband was visited by an angel telling him to trust that God was using this event to bring about the redemption of the world. Joseph believed, and Christ was brought into the situation needed for him to bring about salvation! Because he was to be born of a virgin, and not conceived in sin, his sacrifice of self would be sufficient to undo the spiritual damage done by the fall of Adam. A spotless lamb, a worthy sacrifice of self.

I have decided one thing this Christmas.

If I’m going to buy gifts, I’m going to buy local.

You see, giving gifts is about showing people how much you care, right? You’re investing in relationships, with thoughtful presents that will always remind the receiver that you thought of them. It’s the thought that counts, right?

Let’s think about community! Let’s put thought into our neighbors, the business owners, and their employees, who make our towns more than just big corporate box stores and gas stations.

These people are community, building our economy.

Here are just a few great examples of locally-owned retailers that would love

to sell you a unique gift and offer you a unique experience: Fireside Books! Palmer’s very own book store, you can’t go wrong with this place.

Great staff, willing to help, well-informed. They can order anything that’s available, and if there’s not enough time before Christmas, maybe a gift card is the way to go. Trust me, as a book nerd myself, I would much rather a gift card!

Home Again Décor! This place is the place to find great gifts for the home.

Attention husbands and children – if you give your wife/mother something from here, she will actually like it! Not just smile and pretend, but really, actually like it! Located in the Meta Rose Square mall in downtown Wasilla.

Look for the clocktower.

Czar of Guitars! This Palmer guitar shop is a great place to find quality instruments, and professional instrument repair. Forrest is the main face you’ll see around there these days, and he knows his stuff. If you have a musician in the family, a gift certificate is the way to go!

Burke’s Military and Flag! If you have a veteran on your wish list, you might find it difficult to get them something that they want. After all, these honorable folks have learned to sacrifice for others, and in the process they’ve become a little difficult to shop for. What do you give to someone who is trained to give everything for you? Maybe a little recognition, a memento of your respect for their sacrifice might be the perfect thing.

Continued on Page 25

Upon the birth of Christ, three Magi came from the East (Matthew 2:1), not of the Israelite people, looking to the stars for guidance to this newborn King!

Many have translated that these Magi were ‘wise men’, or ‘kings’, but really they were Magi. Magi is the word used for the followers of Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion, and the Magi were the priests of this religion. They had great interest and focus on reading the heavens, the stars. They followed a star to find the messiah. ‘Magi’ is the root of the word magician, and imagination.

The secrets of this long-forgotten religion were mysteriously tied to the story of the birth of Christ. Might the mystery of the missing years of Christ’s adolescence be tied to these foreign Magi?

For some reason the proclaimed Christian churches, since before the time of King James, have made effort to change their description from Magi to ‘kings’ or ‘wise men’. (Hosea 4:5-6)

Love = Charity “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 King James Bible

Reservations 1 or 3 p.m.

Beer Connoisseur Gift $55

By Rose and L.L. Miller & Team Miller

The dog supplies, sled supplies, camping tools and food necessary must be organized, well prepared, and measured to a scientific expertise level. The dog and human athletes must be well rested, sharp minded, toned and physically fit. There needs to be coordination and cooperation, a tough-it-out spirit and a lot of discipline. To handle, coach or organize SP Kennel takes a lot of energy and effort from Aliy’s family, friends, awesome professional financial sponsors, worldwide sports fans and local neighbors. Not to mention, love of the dogs.

Keep your eyes to the moon and watch for Aliy & her devoted fans and team this 2013 racing season. You will see Aliy at the start, running in front of her sled, but with a hearty support-team behind the scenes. After all, those awesome dogs are pulling for Aliy along with the rest of the SP Kennel crew.

The Red Barn Thrift Store All Kinds of Furniture, Tools, Kitchenwares, Housewares, Turned Bowls, and more!

Check out our Tool Room!

Great Gifts for Christmas!

907-745-5050 - 1100 S. Colony Way, Palmer Open Monday - Saturday: 9am - 6pm

Thanks from Trinity Lutheran Church

By Hank Roesing, Trinity Lutheran Church, Palmer Many thanks to all who joined us this year for our 9th Annual Christmas Bazaar and Bake Sale.

We’re happy to report that a total of $2513 was raised!

This amount will be matched with another $1000 by Thrivent Financial forLutherans for a total of $3513.

We also wish to thank all who worked so hard to make this event happen.

Praise God !!!!

Dec 2012–

Aliy’s talented 2012 second-place Iditarod finish was excellent and came as no surprise. A previous Leonhard Seppala Award winner for dog-care, Aliy has always been the leader-of-thepack and coach of SP Kennel’s extreme devotion to the health & welfare of their athletic dogs. Aliy was the first woman to win the Yukon Quest in 2000 and her

teammate, husband and fellow-musher Allen Moore, is a repeat Copper Basin 300 winner and adamant supporter of his mushing-wife. But, it is team effort from the Moore-Zirkle’s entire family that makes their story a wonderful one.

Mother, father, incredible sister Kaz, brother-in-law and Allen’s own daughter will always be found involved.

Caring, cleaning, running, organizing… it takes a true team-effort to make a champion and representative of the sport and true winner; which Aliy clearly is. The love of the sport, exuberance, natural-extreme-seriousness and team dedication are apparent; year in and year out. This sport has garnered international interest and has a unique history. Dog mushing embodies & represents an amazing collaboration of the strength and spirit of man, love of the dogs, and bridging one another to wild-nature and to the world.

Handling an SP Kennel racing dog is not for the faint of heart. These dogs can run a steady 9 or 10 miles an hour, while gliding a sled with musher aboard. They have the strength to pull like a weight lifter, the endurance of a marathon runner and the hearts of champions.

The opportunity, joy, exercise and enthusiasm of handling championship racing dogs (and their owner) is a unique one indeed. Several mushingfamilies continually challenge the Iditarod race course, Yukon Quest and Copper Basin 300; perhaps no musher more intelligent, talented, beautiful or diligent than Aliy Zirkle. This amazing woman is not alone; champions are born and supported by their wonderful teams, family members, devoted- canine and like-minded dedicated individuals. Many are hands-on and many who cheer in support and spirit.

Command central & home-base have to make certain that the sled and supplies are ready for the races. They have to carefully consider all supplies, make purchases, package, tag, transport (at times by air) and endlessly organize.

Mushers will truck-drive their dogs & crews for hundreds of miles to a race, in a specially outfitted vehicle, intense long hours over the Alaskan or Canadian roadways. The dogs must be carefully loaded and unloaded, attended to, meticulously cared for, and kept in top-notch health and spirits.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Handling Greatness: The Team Effort of Getting a Champion Dog Musher to the Starting Line

13

Sunday 20 January 2013

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM

THE CITY OF PALMER Things to do in Palmer over Christmas Break: Visit the Library! Movie Madness is happening at the Palmer Library on Dec. 28th with a showing of ‘Brave’ at 10:30 and on Jan. 4th with a showing of Nim’s Island at 10:30.

All ages welcome and popcorn will be provided!

Go Ice Skating! Public skate at the MTA Events Center is held weekdays at noon. Cost is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors and children under 16 - and $11 for a family of four. Skate rental is $3.

Monthly passes are available! Call 761-1371 for more information.

Visit Downtown Palmer for a hot beverage, shopping, and lunch or dinner at one of our many fabulous locally owned restaurants! www.CityofPalmer.org VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS presents

Directed by Kelly Larson

Sponsored by FISHHOOK TIRE & AUTO | THE GALLERY THE LASER VEIN CENTER | VALLEY DERMATOLOGY CENTER

$17 Students/Seniors $19 Adults

| 373-0195 | www.valleyperformingarts.org

Sense and Sensibility

Fishhook Tire & Auto, The Gallery, The Laser Vein Center and Valley Dermatology Center.

By V.P.A.

At the dawn of the Regency, two sisters, Elinor and Marianne, are thrust into poverty by their brother’s scheming and manipulative wife. Reduced to living with their mother in a tiny cottage with their prospects for marriage nearly ruined, the sisters are nevertheless courted by three dynamic men,

Valley Performing Arts opens the New Year with Sense and Sensibility, a play based on the book written by Jane Austin and adapted by Ashley J. Barnard.

Performances start January 11th and end February 3rd. Play sponsors are

each with a dark secret. The shy and awkward Edward Ferrars wins Elinor’s heart, neglecting to tell her he is already engaged to Lucy Steele, who unsuspectingly lets Elinor in on the devastating secret. Colonel Brandon desperately loves Marianne, but his former attachment to the ill-fated Eliza and his old-fashioned habits fill Marianne with mistrust and disdain. Instead, Marianne, passionate and reckless, falls head-over-heels in love with the dashing Willoughby, only to be deserted when it is learned that Willoughby seduced Colonel Brandon’s young ward and abandoned her with his child.

witty banter and heartbreaking tenderness.

Their hearts broken, Elinor and Marianne nearly give up on love until fate intervenes.

www.valleyperformingarts.org or contact VPA office at 373-0195.

Non-perishable food items are being accepted at each performance, through May 26th, on behalf of the Food Pantry of Wasilla. VPA is located at 251 W. Swanson Avenue in Wasilla and the office is located behind the theatre.

In the midst of all is the outrageous Mrs. Jennings, whose gossip-mongering creates hilarious misunderstandings.

As appealing as it was in 1811, Sense and Sensibility is filled with romance,

VPA’s current play, Cotton Patch Gospel, runs through December 23rd.

All VPA performances are Friday and Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm.

Share the spirit of the theatre with a gift certificate to a play- just contact our office and we will personalize it for you.

Reserve your seat at:

Happy Holidays in Happy Valley By ‘Happy Dawn’ Baker For me, Christmas starts in October.

That’s because every year in our store (Happy Dawn’s Thrift Shop), we put up a 146 square foot Christmas Village called Happy Valley.

Every year, Happy Valley has well over 1,000 pieces that form a unique little “Wonderful World”. I started collecting in 2003 with just a few pieces on top of the television, and being that I love thrift shops and garage sales, the next year it was on the dining room table.

Five years ago, we opened Happy Dawn’s Thrift Shop, on the corner of Main St. and Nelson St. downtown Wasilla, so now there is plenty of room for Happy

Valley, which is a good thing because it grows bigger every year, THANKS to our AWESOME customers that bring treasured pieces to place in our little town.

I absolutely LOVE the fact that I am able to share my passion with my friends of the community. Every October, my many boxes of miniatures are carefully unwrapped with anticipation of how Happy Valley will turn out. The FUN for me is not having a map of where things go, just letting my imagination run wild.

This year started with the Winter Carnival, then on to downtown Happy Valley which reminds me so much of the town I grew up in Germany.

A river with camping trailers, the inlet with ships, and of course the Florida Gator football stadium known as “THE SWAMP”.

I try really hard to make the village seem

as alive as possible with still moments that happen in everyday life. The photos with Santa section is a memory of my childhood of how the malls where decorated for Christmas time. I am also a great lover of hidden object games myself, so I always scatter familiar characters throughout the village such as Waldo, Bettlejuice, Superman, Tinkerbell, Lighting McQueen & Mater, just to name a few.

I really like to make it fun for the kids, the kid in all of us. I absolutely LOVE the fact that I am able to share my passion with my friends of the community. There is so much to see, that we’re inviting everyone to come down and wander around Happy Valley, it will definitely put a holiday SMILE on your face.

This year we have a donation jar for Fight 4 Life. Fight 4 Life is a communitybased organization dedicated to assist-

roadhouse bakery ● restaurant ● rooms

Private Rooms, Hostel-Style Bunks, Private Cabins & the Museum Apartment Coin Laundry ● WiFi ● Showers Big Breakfasts & World Famous Cinnamon Rolls

Live Acoustic Music Every Second Saturday, 5-7pm

On Main Street ● 733-1351

www.talkeetnaroadhouse.com Open Year Round - Talkeetna, AK

ing the needs of local families in difficult circumstances within the MatanuskaSusitna Valley. .

Please HELP us HELP them.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS Y’ALL! - Happy Dawn

Read our digital online edition or submit content anytime: visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Positive & Encouraging Community News No Staff of Writers + Community Submissions = The People’s Paper

>>>

By Josh Fryfogle

But these sculptures are gifts to the community that will keep on giving… well, at least for a while.

Dec 2012

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

16

Palmer Presents…

While the winds in Palmer may slowly convert the ice art vapor, hopefully we’ve had all the wind we’re going to get. If we’re lucky, local children will have the chance to play on the interactive ice art for a while yet. I imagine quite a few family Christmas card photos will be taken as well.

On my way through Palmer a few weeks ago, I noticed some huge blocks of ice that had been placed next to the railroad tracks.

The blocks looked stark against the barren ground, where no snow had fallen.

If the world had been whitened by snow, as is normally the case in early December, the huge cubes of ice might have blended into the background. Without that snow, they were striking.

My attention was piqued, and after driving by several times throughout the week, I finally saw the sculptor with his delicate chainsaw, milling about the icy blocks.

Jim Brown, the talented artist, told me that the Special Events Committee (commissioned by the Palmer Chamber of Commerce) had asked him to build something that was interactive for children, to be ready for Colony Christmas.

Who knew that ice could be so welcoming? Palmer is the kind of place that makes you feel at home, they embrace community in action. They represent the Alaskan spirit of making the best of things, even making ice into something that warms the heart.

Things You Should Know: Capstone Family Medicine, along with Capstone Urgent Care and Capstone Eye Clinic, paid the bill for the huge blocks of ice.

Carlile Transportation brought the ice from Fairbanks, at no charge.

The Special Events Committee is a group of volunteers from all over the Mat-Su Area who donate their time and energy towards the three-day Colony Christmas event each year. Jeff Johnson was the member of the committee tasked with coordinating the ice sculpture.

Read our online edition anytime. www.MakeASceneAK.com

Positive & Encouraging Community Info & Events No Staff of Writers + Community Submissions = The People’s Paper

Better To Give

By Susan Delores Nimm As a parent of three little boys, I can tell you that they are constantly challenged by a world that teaches them to be selfish. And no other time of year is this more apparent than Christmas time.

We all get so upset that Christ is taken out of Christmas. “Happy Holidays” is not a threat to the Christmas spirit, but teaching our children to obsess over presents is.

Last month it began. My kids started telling me what they wanted for Christmas. Just as the television ads began running, and as the Christmas displays go up at Fred Meyers, my little ones start telling me what they want.

It made me think that maybe I should explain to them the meaning of the birth of Christ. Maybe they’ve lost touch with the reason for the season.

I told my sons that I didn’t want to hear anymore Christmas present requests until they picked out a present for the Special Santa program. I want my little boys to grow up with an understanding that it’s not wrong to receive, but it’s better to give.

I think a lot of parents will agree with this, but with the hustle bustle of the holiday season they may not think about it, so I contribute this to Make A Scene in hopes that it will be printed. We’re all in this together!

Merry Christmas!

More info about the Mat-Su Special Santa Program, and all the Christmas wishes that are being made possible through the help of people like you, can be found on page 27

Over 40 Ways YOU Can Have A Positive Impact YOU have the power to make an impact on your community in the Mat-Su Valley. Nonprofits help people around you every day.

Help them to continue their support of this valley. Apply for your PFD online and share your dividend with Mat-Su Valley nonprofits.

If every resident in our valley just gave $25 from their PFD we would raise over $2,212,500 to support nonprofits in our valley. So give a little and make a BIG IMPACT in your community.

Academy Charter School Advisory Board Advocates for Dog and Puppy Wellness Alaska Assistance Dogs Alaska Attachment and Bonding Associates Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue Alaska Family Services Inc. Alaska Wildbird Rehabilitation Big Lake Library Advocates Birchtree Parents Guild Inc. Blood N Fire CCS Early Learning Clear Creek Cat Rescue Denali Arts Council Food Pantry of Wasilla Forget Me Not Mission Friends of Palmer Public Library Friends of Talkeetna Library Friends of Wasilla Public Library Habitat For Humanity MAT SU HeartReach Pregnancy Center Jessica Stevens Community Foundation Mat-Su Senior Services Mat-Su Services for Children and Adults MSSCA Mat-Su Trails Council Inc

Matanuska Valley Sportsmen Inc. Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary Mid Valley Seniors Incorporated Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry North America Outdoor Institute NAOI Northern Susitna Institute Nugens Ranch Palmer Arts Council Pillows for Kids Foundation Radio Free Palmer Sunshine Community Health Center The Children's Place United Way of Mat-Su Valley Charities Valley Community for Recycling Solutions WASI Wasilla Area Seniors Inc Willow Public Library Valley Mountain Bikers and Hikers

THANK YOU FOR INVESTING IN YOUR VALLEY! WITH YOUR HELP WE WILL CONTINUE TO MAKE THE MAT-SU AN AMAZING PLACE TO LIVE FOR EVERYONE!

Emptying Out The Closet: VAA’s Wearable Art at Palmer Museum

By Selena Ortega We may be entering the coldest months of our winter season but that doesn’t mean we all have to hibernate. It’s the beginning of a new year so why not start fresh and explore your community. There’s no better way than to get to know the city of Palmer than participating in the Second Saturday Art Walk. Businesses and organizations will once again come together in January to bring the valley a fun and exciting day filled with artist exhibits, demonstrations and great sales in the downtown Palmer area. So instead of ordering out for pizza and renting yet another video for the weekend, why not get some friends together and stop by the Palmer Museum to pick up your free Second Saturday Art Walk passport that will guide you through town as you enjoy a day filled with art, food, music and shopping. As an added bonus, if you complete your passport by attending all of the participating venues, you get a chance at winning one of the many gift baskets filled with items from our participating hosts. Second Saturday in Palmer is a great way to get to see the wonderful work our valley artists are creating as well as getting out of the winter funk and meeting some great new people. January’s Second Saturday Art Walk will be held on Saturday, January 12th from 3:00 – 8:00pm. For more information, please contact the Palmer Museum at 907746-7668 or visit our website at www. pamermuseum.org.

During the month of January, the Palmer Museum is also proud to present our new exhibit Emptying Out the Closet: VAA’s Wearable Art Collection.

With the assistance of the Valley Arts Alliance, VAA, we will be exhibiting some of the past entries of VAA’s Wearable Art Show. VAA will once again be hosting their Wearable Art Runway Fashion Show on February 16, and this exhibit is a great way to learn about this exciting event as well as viewing some of their past amazing entries. Emptying Out the Closet will be on exhibit from January 9th through February 16th. Be sure to stop by the Museum during the January Second Saturday Art Walk to view the exhibit and meet members of the Valley Arts Alliance.

a l l G er e y h

SE OVER $50 AT: FREE GIFT WITH EVERY PURCHA

About PMHA:

T

18

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Dec 2012

Arts

The Palmer Museum of History and Art is a non-profit museum that serves the community of Palmer in preserving and sharing the history and art of the Palmer region. The museum’s collections contain items that best depict region’s art history, exploration, settlement, agriculture, and trade, cultural and social development. During the summer, May 1st through September 30th, the museum also serves a Palmer’s Visitor’s Center and is open seven days a week from 9:00AM to 6:00PM.

ute ers n i t M opp ar!

Las as Sh he ye tm l of t s i r Ch e dea th get

F F RT O A ED % M 3L0L FRA A

Mon - Fri: 10 am - 8 pm Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm Sunday: 10 am - 5 pm Christmas Eve: 10 am - 6:30 pm

ts inals ignmen g i r ns so lude and co c x E

1150 S Colony Way, Palmer 745-1420 www.galleryakcom galeryak@ak.net

By Carmen Summerfield Ice Castles on the Green! consists of unique winter ice sculptures created by some of the Valley’s most innovative artists. Our centerpiece this year was an ice sculpture based on the glass pyramids at the Louvre in Paris. Last month’s article featured a picture of the steel frame. Here is how it came to be…

To form the triangular sheets of ice, we made wooden molds, 30 inches at the base and one and a half inches thick, with tapered sides to make extraction easier. We coated the wooden mold with an epoxy resin for strength and waterproofing.

Over the course of the preceding months (when we had well-below freezing temperatures) we constantly filled

We needed 48 ice sheets to form our pyramid, but we created over 150 ice sheets, partly for spares, but also to create “baby” pyramids on the side on the main pyramid.

And speaking of great ideas, join us for The 7th Annual Valley Arts Alliance Wearable Art and Runway Fashion Show at the Palmer Depot, February 16.

This year’s theme is “Arctic Attitude!”, and we will be producing two shows—a 3pm Matinee and the 7pm Evening

Show Tickets are $15 for each, and for the 3pm Matinee ONLY, children 12 years old and under will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

Once we transported all these materials to the back yard of the Dahlia Street Market in Palmer, we assembled a large three-sided pyramid. This pyramid differs slightly from the glass pyramids at the Louvre, which are four-sided.

We had a great time assembling this pyramid, and we want to send a special thanks to “Rusty’s Restaurant” in Palmer for letting us warm up inside, and for their delicious treats! Also, we give a special thanks to DeLena and Steve Johnson for the use of the Dahlia Street Market’s back yard.

To see exciting scenes from this event, please visit www.ValleyArtsAlliance. com and click on the Archive pages.

We’re planning another Ice Castles on the Green! next year, so plan on joining us and bring your own ice and ideas!

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

We created three steel frames, each in the shape of an equilateral triangle with a base of 10 feet, sized so they could be easily transported and assembled on site. Each steel frame was designed with supporting structure to hold 16 triangular sheets of ice.

these forms with water and extracted and stored the resulting ice sheets.

These sheets had to be kept out of the wind, or they would disappear by sublimation.

19

Ice Castles (Behind The Scenes)

Dec 2012

20 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Dec 2012

Music

Local Band 'Gerygone & Twig' Needs Your Help Creating Their Debut Album

By Grace Kari Unless you happen to be a diligent member of the Parrot & African Lovebird Society of Australia, you probably don't know what a Gerygone is and why it would be relevant to a young band of songwriters here in Wasilla, Alaska. As it turns out, the word translates directly to “made of sound”, and that is what these local indie songwriters aim for in their melodies, complimented by twanging banjos and rosy voices blooming from soft mandolins and guitars. After

filling the rafters of many coffeecrafting facilities around the valley and being beseeched by many a fan, Gerygone & Twig decided to begin work on writing and recording an album.

Now, as the Christmas season delightfully washes over the chilly alleyways of Alaskan life, the trifecta has all of the music compiled and would like to announce that they are starting a project to help get the music out to everyone. They will be conducting this 30-day chaotic all-or-nothing project hosted on Kickstarter. com, an online funding website for creativity of all kinds. The band will be raising $900 to cover the costs of production, duplication, and recording. The best part is, everyone who donates receives a homemade reward from the band, such as a physical copy of the album itself, personalized hand-drawn portraits of your cat, and sappy love poetry.

HOWEVER, the catch is, no one gets anything unless the goal of $900 is reached in 30 days or less. If they don't succeed, no album, no cat drawings, and no friends. The good news is, you, dearest reader, can help!

You can find the link to the project on the band's facebook page.

The project will not run past the end of January, so be sure to jump on this train before it leaves the station. If you're interested in hearing the music for yourself, you can hear Gerygone & Twig at their Christmas show at Kaladi Brothers in Wasilla, December 17th, from 5-7pm and at their Art Show (they paint, too?!) at Sophia's Cafe on January 4th, both times with Marching Band Solo.

Hope to see you there!

For more information please ontact: facebook.com/gerygoneandtwig gerygoneandtwig@live.com

Getting Paid

By Kurt Riemann After some withdrawals on my account I see that I have an internet music sales balance of $29.06825581965914, (that's right, FOURTEEN decimal places). This is largely caused because of companies like Spotify that pay fractions of a cent. I was surprised that anyone would bother to calculate percentages that far off to the right, so I did some figuring on a napkin.

And by "napkin", I mean Google.

A penny is 2 cm wide. 200,000,000 copper atoms are also 2 cm wide. And despite how small a single copper atom is, I am being paid in fractions a million times smaller than even that.

In fact, if you were to take the smallest possible payment I'm owed from Spotify sales - .00000000000001 cents - as a percentage of copper in an entire penny, you would need a scanning electron microscope to see it.

A tenth of a quadrillionth of a cent.

That's about how much you rub off a penny while you play with it in your hand. Or to put it another way, it is calculated that there are 2,827,433,388,000,000 grains of sand on a .5 km stretch of beach 100 feet wide, almost exactly the same as my 2,906,825,581,965,914 balance, in units of payment from music sales through companies like Spotify.

Copper atoms and grains of sand.

Because they don't want to give you the penny.

Kurt Reimann is a lifelong musician, composer, producer, and owner of Surreal Studios in Anchorage, Alaska. His credits and credentials list would be much longer than this article, so his is a qualified opinion.

The Swingin' Ravens The Swingin’ Ravens, featuring John McKimmey and Hank Hartman, will perform at The Lake Lucille Inn, Wasilla, AK, on Saturday, February 23, 2013 for Stride Alaska, from 6PM to 9PM, downstairs in The Iditarod Room. Tickets are $50 each.

Modern New Orleans Swing; featuring the music of Pete Fountain and Louis Armstrong!

A Swinging 4 piece for dining and dancing pleasure!

Music

Elvis, Beatles, Katy Perry?

Really?

By Mikey G So, I’ve been on an intense travel schedule this year for my day job. I’ve used this as an excuse for not doing a regular contribution to the Scene.

Josh recently prodded me into coming up with something. In my travels I have to find ways to kill endless time on airplane rides back and forth from Alaska to the L48. After viewing most of the sorry movies that are available as entertainment these days (Thanks for nothing Hollywood) I decided to watch the Katy Perry movie “Part of Me”. The movie was OK but it did hype on some trending themes that need a reality check.

Katy OK, before you all get your panties in a wad and start sending your hate mail let’s get a few things understood.

First off, Katy Perry is very talented and her music sales are absolutely setting incredible records. She seems to be genuinely interested in pleasing her fans. As you all know by now it’s my opinion that giving your audience what they want is the ONLY thing that should matter as a performing artist. She obviously does this with a tremendous amount of passion.

So, this is not a Katy Perry bash fest.

So, why am I peeved?

The movie obviously couldn’t just stick to the facts. The story would have been very compelling just by doing that. Instead, there had to be a lot of drama around current myths that life is so hard for a successful woman and that men are the reason for all of their struggles and the unfairness they are subjected to. I’m so tired of this crap. Mainly because it isn’t true

at all. Competent women (of which there are many) are very well respected both professionally and with compensation. Yea, maybe this wasn’t always true but in this day and age what matters most is performance.

If a woman performs well she will do well. Trust me, there is no conspiracy by men to undermine success based on gender. Why do I say this? It’s common sense. Today’s corporations and businesses face too many competitive challenges and hostile state and national governments. They need performance to succeed and gender is not a concern when work needs to be done.

Victim Chicks I know I almost started a riot on this topic previously. I’ll do my best to tone it down so we don’t have a similar reaction. OK, so Katy Perry marries a douche bag that gets a lot of attention and “is so cute”. I could have told her how this would turn out. Look, I’ve spent my whole life playing in bands with “cute” guys that live to use and abuse females. In every case there was always a long line of bimbotic shallow narcissistic females that had to have the attention of the “cute” guy. After they were used and abused they always ended up in tears and causing a bunch of drama over getting dumped on. In every case there is always a room full of other great guys that would be upstanding respectful dudes that get ignored because of the “cute” guy. You gals need to wake up and start looking at reality.

I don’t have any sympathy for you or Katy Perry on this topic. Stop being starved for attention by easily recognizable losers that are going to dump on you and move on to the next opportunity.

We Shall Overcome Finally, the overall message was that the music industry (Mostly men) was doing everything they could to hold

Katy down and not allow her any success. She becomes the current industry phenomenon with her brute force and female determination. Look, there is no doubt that Katy Perry has worked very hard to achieve success. The truth is that there were many contributors (including men) to her incredible success. What they didn’t focus on at all is that the producers, engineers, and musicians that make up her sound are all very accomplished males that have devised a mega formula for revenue creation. Also, comparing Katy Perry to Elvis and the Beatles is like having a race between a Model T Ford and a modern Corvette. The industry back then was primarily radio and television. Today there are so many distribution outlets that it is almost impossible to create enough content to fill the available space. The result is a tremendous amount of garbage content that is nothing but a waste of time to watch or listen to. So, good for Katy. I’m glad that she is so successful but the movie was an anthem for the man hater syndrome that fuels so much of the divisiveness facing our way of life. Bottom line, dudes are not the devil and actually contribute a majority of the creative ideas and output that make our country the greatest on earth. And, females continue to achieve great success as time marches forward. Let’s all remember we’re on the same team. If we don’t we’ll all be sorry in the end.

Read something you don’t like?

Don’t just whine about it - write about it!

And then send it to us at Make A Scene!

Response To Fatguy

By Wrick Luv, musician I applaud Fat Guy’s contribution to local music here in Alaska, but his comment about “idiot’s” who won’t play Koot’s is ignorant.

Many of us who have experienced the good and bad of Koot’s have good reasons not to support the place. It goes beyond using a good sound system, etc...

He rails against corporate music bullshizz, yet there is his advertisement for his going away show with the Budweiser logos intact.

Although KZND doesn’t play much that I’m interested in, I appreciate good local DJ shows like Philthy Phil’s and appreciate the airplay I have received.

22 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Dec 2012

Literature Local Author’s ‘Awakening’ Available on Amazon.com

By Josh Fryfogle I’m always excited to hear that a local author has finished a book, and it’s even better to hear that it’s publication is imminent!

The reader is taken on a journey through ancient civilizations, the beginnings of religion, and beings not of this world. ‘Awakening’ is a genrebending blend of adventure, romance, sci-fi and more! Mature audiences only.

The book is available on Amazon.com now!

Paperback copies will be available soon!

Check out author profiles and other info at : www.bloodheritage.net

Such is the case with Krista Gray-Fee, and the first book of her trilogy, ‘Awakening’, from the ‘Blood Heritage’ series.

Each book in the trilogy is devoted to each of the three main characters, with book one focusing on Amber, the chosen one. She struggles with the power within, longing for a ‘normal’ life. Filled with drama and inner-family turmoil, she seeks to find her own way.

Make A Scene will be covering this release more extensively in the coming months, so keep reading.

Craig Medred: Covering the Iditarod or Shivering in the Cold Dark?

As a reporter, Craig Medred covered the sinking of a cruise ship, the disappearance of mountain climbers, and the whales trapped in Barrow.

Along the way, it has been his luck to sail a small boat across the Gulf, climb on the glaciers of North America’s tallest peak, travel the Iditarod Trail on foot

and by snowmachine, and spend a lot of time shivering in the cold dark. At the monthly luncheon for Alaska Professional Communicators, Craig – now with Alaska Dispatch – will share stories of what it’s like to cover the Iditarod. Public welcome.

Thursday, January 3, 2013 11:30am-1:00pm Reservations: ht t p://w w w.a kprocom.org/ meetings.php 274-4723 tickets: $19-$25 akpc@gci.net Kinley’s Restaurant 3230 Seward Hwy Anchorage

Lessons of Hospice Cont. me that he was scared of the process of death. I asked him how he wanted to go.

He wanted to leave without giving us nightmares. He was afraid of the end pain that triumphed over drugs that he had seen a few friends get in their last days where they had been in agony, and he also didn’t want to linger in a coma, fighting for every breath until there was nothing left for the cancer to consume, with his family, suffering along with him.

I have to hand it to my dad, he remembered what I’d said. He’d yell his pain out, gasp for air, and then say, “I need to breathe! It’s good! It’s doing what it’s supposed to—“ and then he’d yell some more and then welcome the cancer.

That went on for a few hours. His sleep was as merciful for him as it was for the rest of us.

Winter Recall

by Nan Potts Birch wood burns; flames lick and smack, Enjoying a mid-winter’s snack.

Producing needed warmth and cheer That, at this time, draws loved ones near And gather to our hearth and table, This Christmastime, recall a stable.

Of long ago, in bleak and cold A babe did lay, from what I’m told.

His parents humble and with child; An honest man and mother mild.

A bitter road they had to trod Seeking refuge from the cruel Herod.

They stopped and asked for shelter, where T’was found a barn, both stark and bare To bear a child of high esteem Whom, would later yield to be a King.

You may recollect this tale of old And might believe it be too bold.

But in it, there is truth that lies Awaiting one’s awareness rise

I felt like I’d launched a rocket as opposed to having witnessed someone die.

The cancer hadn’t won! All of us must leave this earth, but few can choose how.

As to why this season, we remember, To celebrate each dark December; The one who came to bring us light And save us all that Winter’s night.

Dec 2012

When the body is getting ready to die, it might “evacuate” via the intestines, but it also starts to shut down by taking in less food as the limited energy that the body has uses more of it on the circulatory system. As I understood it, I told him that as the circulatory system begins to shut down, one would get the cold extremities which traveled toward the heart. This was normal and had to be accepted, not fought, since there was

He acknowledged me by opening his eyes and shutting them. He was going. I knew his end was coming fast so I called my mom and my brother in. They were both reminding me what Hospice had said. He had no unfinished business, and he was leaving with no baggage.

The end was right. My brother stood at his right side squeezing his hand and told him he loved him and thanked him for everything. My mom was standing at his left side holding his hand told him that they’d had an amazing ride for over forty years and that she loved him. I was rubbing his shoulders and told him that it was just his neck and chest, when he was ready he could let go. I think I also said something about, “He really held on so I couldn’t vote! I can’t believe it!” The CD was playing, “Thank You, World.” That song would be played at a riderless procession a few months later at a horse show for which he was instrumental in promoting.

My brother and I were not even worried about getting it later. My dad had worked on his Arizona ranch when the fields around him were being sprayed and given the high rate of cancer in his area, he was pretty sure what had caused it and told us to not lose sleep thinking we’d inherit his, but to worry about other junk in our environments.

My mom sold the ranch and moved elsewhere with no regrets. He managed to leave on his terms, surrounded by people who he loved, at the ranch that he loved, and he made it easy for us to move on while keeping him close in our hearts.

I told him about what was coming because he wanted to know. I told him how his extremities would get cold and how his hands would claw and he’d lose his ability to use them, and how it was natural to fight this, but that with its speed, the cancer was his friend that late in the game. When you are dying, your system is shutting down. It is said that if you are eating, you are also going to the bathroom.

Less than 12 hours before he would die, I was folding origami cranes while he slept, and reading to him when he was awake, then out of the blue, the breakthrough pain came and it hurt me worse to see my strong father in so much pain.

I called the doctor as well as Hospice, which hadn’t yet been out, so they couldn’t help us. He was hurting and in the kind of pain that I feared he’d harm himself trying to get relief, and I was crying and feeling helpless as there was nothing that I could do. I told him that his body was in May Day mode, that the cancer was doing what it was supposed to do, and he yelled, “KELLIE! SHUT THE ‘HECK’ UP!” My mom ran out of her room and cried, “What are you saying to my husband? GET OUT!”

I woke up a few hours later and Hospice had come-and-gone, and he was sleeping. My mom was resigned to waiting around for a few days or more for him to take his last breath, as Hospice had told her that it could be a while. It was Election Day 2006, and also my dad’s birthday. My brother and I had bought him some presents. My mom, trying to accept the inevitable, was incredulous and couldn’t fathom why we’d “spend [our] money like that” and buy him presents. I put the CD in that I had bought for him, it was the Statler Brothers. I sounded like an idiot, enthusiastically talking about how much I loved their harmonizing and reminded me of how he used to sing their songs to me when I was little. Then I whispered to him, “It’s too late for me to go home and vote. You win.” His breathing changed.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Since his stroke and up to that point, my dad had been marking time by the morphine pump and how many times he’d hit it and how much he had left after it began to wear off. I taught him to breathe into the pain and up until the last couple of days, he was marking time in fifteen, then ten, then five minute increments that he could stand with a clear mind between a hit wearing off and needing the next auto-surge. The breathing into the pain was something that I related to weight lifting for him, and he worked well with it.

nothing more to be done, and he was ready to go.I told him about breakthrough pain. I don’t know if doctors know why cancer patients have breakthrough pain. Drugs do not help, and the patient is in terrible pain. I told him that I thought that it was the body’s May Day alert, and I spared nothing of what I’d seen with clients in the past. I told him that if he didn’t want to linger to welcome it as best as he could. He asked me to remind him of this when break through pain hit and I said, “You will tell me to shut the ‘heck’ up! You won’t care what I say.” Still, he said to remind him, and that he’d try to remember to welcome and accept it, and he said he would remember to breathe into it, and he had lots of practice breathing into pain between morphine hits.

23

Literature

24 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Dec 2012

Business I’m Dreaming of A Thrifty Christmas…

By Josh Fryfogle Seems like more and more people are realizing that corporations and unions are an unholy alliance that manipulates the free market. Sure, corporations talk a good game about ‘going green’ and other such slogans and empty platitudes, but meanwhile they are the main purveyors of plastic problems that fill our landfills, making our world more and more disposable with each holiday season.

Every year around this time we’re told to rush out and buy the newest petroleumplastic products, proffering plastic cards to pay for these presents in perpetuity.

It’s a sickness.

However, there is a happy answer!

Thrift stores! Second-hand shops!

Yeah, everybody wants what that plastic TV tells them to want. It even tells them they need another plastic TV. Maybe it’s time to turn off the tube? I did months ago, and it’s like being deprogrammed.

It is called television programming, after all. Okay, I’m getting off subject. Forgive me… There are lots and lots of thrifty places here in the Mat-Su area that have endless variety to choose from – everything you can imagine! It’s like a treasure hunt!

And if you’re really environmentally conscious, you might consider that buying something second-hand is the ultimate way to recycle! If you buy it, then it doesn’t go to a landfill! That’s easy!

Here’s some great places to buy books, movies, sporting goods, electronics, kitchen wares, clothing, toys… well, just about everything!

Wasilla: Happy Dawn’s Thrift Shop (caddy-corner to MVFCU Main Street) Turn A Leaf (behind Carrs grocery) Value Village (Shop Rite Mall, Parks Hwy.) Books, Inc. (Shop Rite Mall next to Value Village) Great Valley Thrift Shop and Pawn (Shop Rite Mall) Revive & Reuse, consignment (Next to Espresso Café, near Walmart) Nellie’s Eagles Nest (shopping center behind Brown Jug) Salvation Army (Parks Hwy, Next to Windbreak Café) Arctic Treasures Thrift Store (on Seldon road, behind Little Millers) Palmer: Thrifter’s Rock (Next to Valley Harvest Church) Red Barn Thrift Store (1100 S. Colony Way, by Madd Matters) Bishop’s Attic (Next to Hometown Video) Family First Treasures (Next to Silvertip Designs) Cover Ups (Furniture and stuff, S. Colony Way) Klutter Shack Thrift (315 E. Scott Road) Big Lake: Northshore Pawn & Thrift (behind the Post Office)

Big Lake Winter Fest 2013

By Ina Mueller Mark your calendars for February 16 & 17, 2013 for the 2nd annual Big Lake Winter Fest during Iron Dog weekend!

Come “Celebrate the Ice” on Big Lake as we recognize 30 years of the world’s longest snowmachine race - the Iron Dog. Take a helicopter ride with JayHawk Helicopters, test drive a Mercedes on the ice, watch vintage snowmachine races, Kitty Kat/120 Races and Ice Driving Races; take a power-drawn wagon or sleigh ride around Big Lake, watch and join in on the Dog Sled Races and Rides with Aurora Dog Mushers Club.

Bring the family in the sleds and see what great trails Big Lake has to offer with Big Lake Trails, Inc. Join in the Family Fun Run with lots of prizes and great fun! Food vendors will keep your stomach full of good eats while you enjoy the beer garden in the main event tent sponsored by the Big Lake Chamber of Commerce.

Ever attended a concert on the ice? Join us for a spectacular display of fireworks from Gorilla Fireworks, followed by the sounds of Big Fungus, a local band from the Valley in the main event tent!

Hobo Jim will be playing at the BoatHouse Restaurant Friday and Saturday evenings - all a part of Big Lake’s Biggest Celebration of the Ice – Big Lake Winter Fest 2013.

There’s still time to get in on the action – Sponsorship, Vendor Spaces and Event & Activity space is still available.

Big Lake Winter Fest is brought to you by a host of dedicated Big Lake volunteers and Lakeshore Entertaining & Event Management. For more information, please Contact us at (907) 2300935.

Connect with us online at w w w. b i g l a k e w i n t e r f e s t . c o m Facebook.com/BigLakeWinterFest.

Business Show Your Love for Local Business

By Teresa Roy What 3 local businesses would you miss if they closed their doors?

Maybe it’s the corner Deli where you grab the best sandwiches in town. The independent bookseller who knows lets you know when your favorite author has a new release, the shopkeeper who greets you by name when you walk in the door.

All across the nation, with little fanfare, small independent retailers define the best of the American economy. They also tend to define the downtown areas of the towns where they are found. Beyond being a place to shop, eat or get a new hairdo, small businesses play a vital role in the economy of the communities we love.

According to several national studies, for every dollar you spend in a local business, $ .68 stays in the local economy to be spent again and again. In fact, a dollar spent at a locally owned store is usually spent 6 to 15 times before it leaves the community - from 1.00 you create 5.00 to 14.00 in additional value and buying power within that community. Spend 1.00 at a chain store, and 80% of it leaves town immediately.

Owners and employees at locally owned businesses tend to be very philanthropic, supporting local schools, charities, arts

and civic groups, etc. with donations of both time and money. They usually support other businesses. This close connection means that the people who never spent a dime there feel the loss of any local business.

So how can you help keep local business thriving? Simple.

Pick your three favorite locally owned businesses commit to spending 50.00 a month at these and other shops. Maybe that means rethinking where you currently invest your money, opting to pick up that birthday card or pair of jeans in a locally owned business instead of the big box you’ve been going to.

Just in the city limits of Palmer, if every adult did this, just spent $50.00 it would generate an additional $200,000 per month in the local economy. In the Greater Palmer area it jumps to $1,000,000.

Every month. With the multiplier effect we talked about earlier that’s between $ 6- 15 million in spending in our community. All because you picked 3 businesses you would miss if they were gone, bought the things you were already buying and told your friends to join in.

It’s a gift that truly keeps on giving.

Teresa Roy is the owner of a local Palmer Business called Cover Ups. And is the 2012 winner of the state Chamber of Commerce Bill Bivens Small Business of the year award.

CELEBRATE THE ICE 2013 Join us on the Big Lake Ice as we celebrate

30 years of with the 2nd Annual

BIG LAKE WINTER FEST February 16 & 17, 2013 Get involved—sponsorships, vendor spaces & event activity spaces still available!

www.biglakewinterfest.com (907) 230-0935 Brought to you by a host of dedicated Big Lake Volunteers &

The Gift That Keeps on Giving Continued...

thing they will treasure forever, along with the memory of your thoughtfulness.

Non-Essentials! This place is a mainstay for local Palmer people. Foodstuffs of all kinds, an amazing selection of chocolates that go far beyond the normal fare, cookware, fine cheeses, just an all-around gift-givers paradise!

There’s something here for everyone.

The truth is, you can make a difference this Christmas season. Your gift can be more than just a forgotten memory.

The money you spend with local shops stays here in this community. It pays people’s wages, people who work at these local shops, and those people are more likely to pay it forward locally.

It’s literally the gift that keeps on giving! Think about it! It’s the thought that counts.

Madd Matters (Palmer)! The Gallery (Palmer)! Town Square Art Gallery (Wasilla)! Shane Lamb Studios (Palmer)! NuKreations Studio! There are so many great art galleries in the Mat-Su area…

Art is a perfect gift for many people who are less materialistic. The artistic mind may not put a lot of value on the things you find at big box stores, but a piece by their favorite local artist, or a framed print from a nationally renowned artist! Or maybe even some art supplies, or classes? That’s some-

26

5 To have your non-profit organization included in this free community resource list, please email your info to:

Dec 2012

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

makeasceneak@mac.com SENIORS Palmer Senior Citizens Center, Inc.

The primary mission of the Palmer Senior Citizens Center, Inc. is to assist individuals age sixty or older, individuals of any age with Alzheimer’s Disease or Related Disorders, individuals of any age on the Medicaid Waiver program and other eligible individuals in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough remain as independent as possible in the least restrictive environment possible and out of expensive nursing homes for as long as possible.

Services include: congregate and home delivered meals, transportation, adult day services, care coordination, senior employment, family caregivers support, information / referral, chore services, senior housing, chore services, Better Choices Better Health classes, HELP program, activities and volunteer opportunities.

745-5454, pscc@mtaonline.net

Alzheimer’s Resource Agency of Alaska

As Alaska’s resource on Alzheimer’s disease, the Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Agency of Alaska (ADRAA) is committed to providing information, education and services for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders (ADRD) and their caregivers. We have served Alaskans since 1984, and today we help more than 5,000 people annually.

As a non-profit statewide organization, we provide family consultations, care coordination, in-home services for frail elders & individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and education programs to family caregivers and health care professionals. We are your resource for information and can refer you to services in Alaska or the contiguous U.S. Sam Meneses, 746-3432, www.alzalaska.org

Valley Charities, Inc; dba Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Store

Provides medical equipment to all income brackets in the Valley; provides clothing and household goods to Valley residents that are economically disadvantaged.

John Rozzi , 376-5740

Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. (WASI)

A Health and Wellness Campus for Seniors on the Go! The goal at WASI is to assist and refer services for Seniors 60 and older so they can live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

Some of the services provided are: Meals: Family Style Meals Monday through Friday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Center. Meals on Wheels home delivered meals.

Housing: Independent Housing for low income and Market rate individuals. Optional Assisted Living Services Transportation: Partnership with MASCOT Bus $.60 per one way ride. Dr. visits by appointment Other Activities: Cards, Wii, and Painting at the Center Blood Pressure Checks Club50 Fitness Center, Strong Seniors Program ($5/8 weeks) Shopping Trips and other outings Valley Performing Arts Theater Visits And much more… call 376-3104 opt.2 for more information.

Dennie Jaques , 376-3104

Mat-Su Area Partnership (MAP)

An organization of non-profit agencies in the MatSu Valley. MAP holds a monthly meeting on a Thursday at the Menard Sports Complex in Wasilla. www.mapartnership.org/matsu/

Mid-Valley Seniors Inc

Mid-valley Seniors has 3 senior housing units 18 apartments and serves a congregate meal Mon-Fri at 5.30PM Soup and salad bar main meal served at 6 Pm. Home delivered meals served daily fresh Mon-Fri, weekend meals are frozen.

Transportation Department for doctors appointments in the Valley Wasilla and Palmer area, Mon-Wed-Fri 9.00Am -3Pm.

Shopping trips, and pharmacy stops, Tues – Thursday 9Am -1Pm Come up to the Center for activities or dinner,24 hours in advance notice.

Lorie Rounds, 892-6114 mvsc@mtaonline.net www.mid-valleyseniors.org

FAMILIES & CHILDREN Alaska Family Services

Alaska Family Services is a multi-dimensional non-profit that has over 20 programs serving the Mat-Su Valley. Major areas are: domestic violence, behavioral health, WIC, family support, and residential for youth with emotional issues.

Donn A. Bennice, Ph.D. 746-4080 akafs.org

LINKS Mat-Su Parent Resource Center.

We provide support and assistance to families with disabilities. LINKS provides support and trainings, parent to parent connections to mentor, information and referral, and access to library materials.

These services are provided through one-onone assistance and individualized workshops for small or large groups. Our vision is to ensure that every parent and family who has a child with a special need has access to information, education, outreach, and support in a culturally competent environment and to empower then to be advocates for themselves, their children, and their families.

New location on the Palmer-Wasilla Hwy next to North Star Bakery, across the street from MSSCA. Amber Parker, Admin Assisiant. amberp@linksprc.org , 373-3632

Family Promise Mat-Su

Provides a shelter for families without housing.

We mobilize community resources and local congregations to provide compassionate care through shelter, meals, and case management to families without housing. Guest families are housed in area church buildings at night for a week at a time...moving to new host church on Sundays.

Applications are available on our website.

357-6160, www.familypromisematsu.org

The Children’s Place

The Children’s Place child advocacy center is a child-friendly, neutral facility where professionals from many agencies involved in the evaluation, investigation and treatment of child abuse meet to coordinate and bring their services to the child and their family. We provide child forensic interviews, medical exams, linkage to mental health providers, follow-up support and referrals throughout the investigation process. Referrals to The Children’s Place are made through law enforcement and Office of Children’s Services.

The Children’s Place, 357-5157, www. alaskachildrensplace.com

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska

Strengthens our communities by providing mentors to all children who need and want a caring adult role model – special friends who can help them expand their horizons, realize their potential and enrich their futures – changing their lives.

Alaska Center for Resource Families

Provides support, training and education for foster, relative and adoptive families caring for children that have been abused and neglected. ACRF also helps support the Mat-Su Grandparents Support Group in collaboration with Links and Volunteers of America. For more information about foster care and adopting children that are in the OCS child protection system visit our website www.acrf.org or call 376-4678.

376-4678, bwoodin@nwresource.org

Pillows for Kids Foundation

We provide little pillows of support and little scholarships for local children to participate in brain-training activities such as art, music, gymnastics, swimming, skiing, snowboarding, skating, horseback riding, and martial arts..

Mentors and community members contact us when there is an identified need to keep kids, preschool through college, connected with good activities in our community. We plan to publish a book and CD/DVD of Evan’s “Little Pillow” song (copyrighted) soon. Currently, we are selling washable, decorator pillows of all shapes, sizes and colors for kids and adults as a way of creating

funding for the scholarships.

Valerie Koivunen pillowsforkids@gmail.com

The Moose Boosters Wrestling Club

A youth development organization that provides aid and funding to low income recreational facilitates and athletes at the high school level. Funding supports athletes who participate in wrestling programs while meeting academic standards.

Michelle Heun 355-7099

Set Free Alaska

Brief description about non-profit: Our children, friends, co-workers; there is someone we know who is struggling with addiction and destructive behaviors. It is the goal of Set Free Alaska to provide excellent, individualized services to our clients. Set Free Alaska is a Christian outpatient substance abuse treatment center that uses a mind-body-spirit approach to recovery.

Our programs are designed to assist people in gaining freedom from the bondage of addiction and destructive behaviors. Set Free Alaska realizes that cost can be a huge deterrent to people seeking and receiving the help they need as well as a huge relapse trigger. Our assessments are based on a sliding fee scale. It is the goal of Set Free Alaska that no person be denied the services they need due to lack of financial resources. Our offices are open Mon-Fri 10-6 and we are located on the Palmer-Wasilla Highway across from the AT&T Sports Center.

Philip Licht, Executive Director 373-4732, www.setfreealaska.org/

Big Lake Community Clothing Closet

Providing free, good quality clothing to individuals and/or families in need, all donated by our wonderful Alaska neighbors. We have clothing and shoes for women, men, children and babies, in addition to small household necessities (as available), all at no cost to those in need. This oneof-a-kind program serves people throughout the area. There is no charge for those in need, just a hope that those who are able to make a donation will do so – monetary donations pay the monthly rent on the building in Big Lake, located at 2955 Big Lake Rd. We’re just past the Tesoro station, in a vibrant green building on the left side of the road (you can’t miss us). If you are unable to make a donation at this time, we understand - it’s OK - we just want to make you feel welcome to come and help clothe yourself and family as needed.

Our hours are Tues. 9am to 1pm, and Weds. 11am to 3pm. If you have good quality used clothing you’d like to donate to help other Alaskans in need, you may do so at our store in Big Lake during the above hours.

Monetary donations can be mailed to the Big Lake Community Clothing Closet at PO Box 527069, Big Lake, AK 99652. We are a non-profit organization and will provide our tax ID number to donors. Please consider supporting the Big Lake Community Clothing Closet so we can continue to help our Alaskan neighbors in need. And, if you know of needy families, please tell them about us so we can help them too. Look us up on Facebook for additional information and pictures.

Co-Administrators Stephanie O. 892-5450 Christy M. 775-3238

The ARTs

Radio Free Palmer

Radio Free Palmer is community radio serving the Sutton and Palmer communities as KVRF 89.5 FM and online at radiofreepalmer.org. On air since 2011, KVRF’s mission is to foster community involvement.

Currently we produce great local shows on topics from health to mushing - and the list of programs is growing. Online we add important community events such as the Borough Assembly and School Board Meetings. Listen to Radio Free Palmer KVRF 89.5 for more community-centric news, music, sports, music or come volunteer to to help bring great radio programming to the valley.

Mike Chmielewski, COO 745-8951, Manager@radiofreepalmer.org Radiofreepalmer.org and on Facebook and Twitter

Valley Fine Arts Association

VFAA was formed to teach techniques, and encourage fellowship among visual artists in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. we strive to promote

a supportive attitude toward visual arts in our Alaskan community.

We welcome beginners, students, part-time and professional artists who focus mainly on twodimensional art mediums and want to connect with other creative people and gain more exposure locally.

Throughout the year, we inform our members about opportunities to show their work, participate in group events, view other local artists, and enroll in workshops. During the school year, we organize regular sessions for painting together and host monthly artist demonstrations on the 1st and 3rd Mondays from 4 - 8 p.m.; Room 212 at Mat-Su College. March 7 @ 6:00 p.m., Charles Gause will be the guest speaker.

Membership in the Valley Fine Arts Association provides many diverse opportunities for artists. Check our website calendar at www. valleyfineartsassociation.com for upcoming events.

Mat-Su Community Chorus, Inc.

As Musical Ambassadors of The Valley, The MatSu Community Chorus has provided quality vocal music, in its various forms, for the benefit, education and enjoyment of its members and the surrounding communities since 1970. Our membership is open to the public, inviting all who wish to add their voice in song. We offer complimentary performances at public celebrations and deliver formal concerts twice a year.

We are a 501(c)3, non-profit organization, currently with twenty-two members and we are looking towards expanding the organization to better serve the community. With the support from individuals, businesses and other civic organizations we are able to grow our group by bringing the community together through music and to continue our standard of excellence.

We meet September through May on Thursday evenings at 7-9pm in the Choir Room at Wasilla High School.

Nan Potts 745-8788 matsucomchours@gmail.com

Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums of Eagle River

Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums of Eagle River, under the leadership of Pipe Major Aja Stewart and Drum Sergeant Bryan Gonzales, are actively recruiting pipers and drummers, as well as those interested in learning Great Highland Bagpipes and Highland Drumming (snare, tenor, bass.) We would like to extend a cordial invitation to anyone who would like to learn to play bagpipes or drums, to FREE lessons with our Band.

We are a grade IV competing, family-oriented pipe band established in 2005, and beginners of any age are welcome. Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums are very active in supporting the community in which we live. Our purpose is to advance the rich cultural heritage of Great Highland Bagpipe music, and to have FUN doing it! ACPD provides free instruction in piping and drumming, with Band practice to follow, every Friday evening at 5:00 and 5:45 pm at Eagle River Presbyterian Church, 12836 Old Glenn Highway, in Eagle River .

Those interested in lessons, or in becoming members of ACPD, please contact the Band by email at jungstensgericht@yahoo.com or by telephone at (907) 376-5060. The band’s website can be found at http://www.alaskaceltic.org

Mat-Su Concert Band, Inc.

Our mission is to promote, plan, support and conduct educational and cultural activities and opportunities for the benefit of the citizens and residents of Alaska. We do this by providing an outlet for the many talented musicians in and around our area to perform and a venue for the public to come and enjoy with us our music.

Rehearsals are every Mon. from 7 to 9 p.m. at Teeland Middle School. For more information, contact Gleo Huyck at 746-0628. matsuconcertband@gmail.com

The Whirling Rainbow Foundation

Grandmother Drum International Peace Project The Whirling Rainbow Foundation is an international spiritual and educational non- profit organization which honors and celebrates the diverse cultural and spiritual paths of the human family. The foundation cultivates the universal teachings of inner peace, loving compassion, wisdom and understanding at the core of every culture and spiritual tradition. We are starting a Global Peace

Sanctuary and Sustainable Community in Palmer.

The GrandMother Drum International Peace Project travels the world as the international voice of the Whirling Rainbow Foundation. As a symbol of the heartbeat of love that connects all nations and all races, the seven foot, crystal inlaid GrandMother Drum holds local and global events promoting peace and unity through the universal language of music, dance, cultural and healings arts.

White Eagle Medicine Woman (Suraj Holzwarth) Executive Director www.whirlingrainbow.com

Valley Performing Arts

We’re celebrating 36 years of Quality Live Theatre!

VPA performs seven plays a year from September through May. We welcome actors, volunteers, program advertisers and play sponsors to join in supporting VPA, the Valley’s oldest live theatre. The VPA Summer Theatre Arts Programs take place June through August and are for youth 6-11 and 1217. The VPA Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony is held each June and Annual Fundraiser in October.

Purchase your tickets online or from our office.

Check out audition dates and show times on our website. VPA is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization.

373-0195, www.valleyperformingarts.org

Valley Arts Alliance

The Valley Arts Alliance is a group of like-minded individuals who have joined together to encourage, sponsor, facilitate and support artistic expression.

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. www.valleyartsalliance.com

ANIMALS

Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue (ADPR)

Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue is an all volunteer, non-profit organization formed for the purpose of rescuing homeless dogs and puppies. We have rescued dogs throughout Alaska, including various Bush communities. These rescued dogs are placed in foster homes, where they are socialized, vaccinated, dewormed, and taken to the vet to be microchipped and spayed or neutered. It is our goal to have an animal sanctuary, so that all adoptable dogs are given an opportunity to find their forever homes. We encourage individuals to volunteer for this very worthy cause.

745-7030 adpr03@yahoo.com

Alaska Assistance Dogs (Aad)

AAD provides service dogs to Alaskans with special needs (physical, physiological & mental health), and incorporates therapeutic programs into service dog training. AAD works with special education students at school, provides teen mentoring in community training venues, offers domestic violence/PTSD support groups, FASD/ Autism programs, and provides service dogs and support groups for veterans with PTSD and their families.

Therapist on staff, and all trainers are certified by the founder of the service dog concept, Dr. Bonnie Bergin.

Carole J. Shay, Lpc. carole@alaskaassistancedogs.org

Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary

Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary has provided shelter and care for unwanted pet rabbits since 2001. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable corporation. Rabbits are taken in when space is available. They are evaluated for behavior and personality, spayed/neutered, then adopted to new pet homes. Bunnies not able to be adopted are maintained permanently at the sanctuary.

Responsible adult volunteers are always needed.

907-357-6437, www.meadowgates.com manager@meadowgates.com

VARIETY

The Sertoma Club - Wasilla

We host the Mat Su Polar Plunge raising funds for non-profits in the Matanuska Susitna Valley, Alaska. February 2011 we saw 85 jumpers raise

TOPS

Take of Pounds Sensibly Non-Profit Weight Loss Support Group Three (3) Chapters meet weekly in the Valley.

Kathy Miller - 376-9571 or write to matsutops@webtv.net

for

Recycling

Our mission is to educate and provide opportunities in our community to reduce, reuse, and recycle for the long-term good of all. Our vision is to establish the Mat-Su Borough as a model recycling community for Alaska. We are open for residential recycling Wednesday through Friday 12-6pm and Saturday 11-3pm.

Businesses can call ahead for hours. Your permanent community recycling center is located in our new green building at 9465 E. Chanlyut Circle, next to the animal shelter at the Central Landfill. Volunteer opportunities available. community@valleyrecycling.org www.valleyrecycling.org, 745.5544

Valley Residential Services (VRS)

VRS provides special needs housing to individuals who experience behavioral or developmental disabilities, low-income levels or those who are homeless. VRS currently has 168 properties in the Mat-Su Valley with special programs to assist with rental assistance and we can assist with linking individuals to social service agencies who can assist with life skills programs.

(907) 357-0256 , valleyres.org

Educates and supports foster, adoptive, kinship care, step, grand and guardianship parents and professionals who care for children with emotional mental health issues, such as Attachment Disorder.

AABA provides workshops, e-mail/ telephone support, resource/referral information, self-advocacy, AABA web-site www.akattachment.org, RAVEN Respite, newsletters, brochures, lending library, and Mom2Mom/Dad2Dad parent support group. For more information: Laura Wagner 907-376-0366

Food Pantry of Wasilla

The North America Outdoor Institute (NAOI) is a not-for-profit community outreach organization providing outdoor safety and environmental awareness education programs for the general public in an effort to save lives from preventable outdoor injuries and deaths.

Debra McGhan, debra@naoiak.org 376-2898 , www.naoiak.org

Alaskans for Palmer Hay Flats

Alaskans for Palmer Hay Flats is dedicated to conserving the natural and cultural resources of Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge through public awareness, recreation, education and enhancement projects. Healthy, outdoor recreation in a safe, beautiful setting is what APH helps provide to all users.

357-8712, info@palmerhayflats.org www.palmerhayflats.org

Alaska Frontier Trappers Association

The Alaska Frontier Trappers Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the ethical and lawful practice of trapping Alaska’s fur bearers. We work to educate fellow trappers, children and the public in general about trapping as a necessary wildlife management and research tool.

Our monthly meetings usually include a guest speaker and/or a demonstration and fur handling information. Meetings which are held at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Palmer Library.

Everyone is welcome to attend. www.akfrontiertrappers.com

CONSERVATION

Wasilla Soil & Water Conservation District (WSWCD)

The WSWCD is a non-profit formed in 1948 to assist landowners & land managers with conservation & development on land through technical assistance, projects & education programs & services. WSWCD is an active, year-round community-based organization; a non-regulatory agency; a strong partner with various government & non-profit agencies/groups; a credible, knowledgeable advocate for conserving soil & water resources supported by the time & energy of neighbors & volunteers dedicated to making a positive difference in their communities.

Our priorities are: Salmon enhancement & restoration; Soil, forage crops & manure testing; Stream & lake bank stabilization; Water quality & instream flows; Arbor Day activities & tree planting; Invasive weed assessments – land & water; Trail use & salmon stream crossings; Cooperator & community conservation needs; Public information, involvement & education.

Chuck Kaucic, District Manager 357-4563 X 103 distmgr@wasillaswcd.org

The Special Santa Program is a Non-Profit organization under the umbrella of Alaska Family From www.specialsanta.org Services, a 501c3 Non-Profit Charity.

Welcome to the Mat-Su Special Santa Program. Toys For Tots© This year our workshop location is at: 4721 E. Bogard Road, Wasilla (close to the intersection of The Special Santa Program is the distributor of all Bogard and Seldon and across from the Country the toys collected in the Valley for Toys for Tots.

The U.S. Marine Corps attend Halloween Hollow Store.) and other fundraisers held for Toys for Toys and Follow the signs. The building is donated by Car- Special Santa.

lile Transportation.

Special Santa Served over 3400 children, newOver 1084 families in our Valley, from Sutton to born to 18, in 2010 and over 18,000 children since Talkeetna, needed help with Christmas in 2011. 1997.

Mat-Su Special Santa Program brings winter wear, toys, books, games, personal items and much more to the 3400 children in these families.

The program began in 1997 with a few volunteers that helped 90 children. Now, in our 16th year, we organize the largest community Christmas giftgiving program in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.

Asks Special Santas to fulfill wish lists of children of the Mat-Su Valley from Sutton to Talkeetna.

Needs donations of money, books, toys, coats, electronics, personal items, or gift certificates.

Teams with Toys for Tots, agencies, food banks, and schools to help families in need.

All of this is done through the generosity of our community. This year there are even more families in need and we are asking you to take part in the Mat-Su Special Santa Program.

Appreciates the people of the Mat-Su Valley’s generosity in helping bring magic to children and families. * Accepts donations throughout the year.

Coordinated by: Mari Jo Parks & Very Special Elves

The magic of this program is that every little bit makes a huge difference. Your donations stay in the Valley, helping our community neighbors.

We are partnering with Salvation Army to assist them with their families in need for toys and gifts.

Salvation Army will provide food and refer families to Special Santa.

Please feel free to call us at 761-3770 or e-mail at

The Special Santa Program is under the umbrella of Alaska Family Services, a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Charity

Dec 2012

The mission of the Food Pantry of Wasilla is: “To provide persons who reside in the Matanuska Susitna Valley with needed supplemental food supplies. Food Pantry of Wasilla distributes goods to its clients in a manner which gives dignity to all.”

All distributions made by the Food Pantry of Wasilla shall be made notwithstanding any person’s race, color, sex, age, handicap, religious affiliation, or national origin.

Our hours of operation are: Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

We offer two food programs to residents of the Mat-Su Valley. We operate a community-

North America Outdoor Institute

matsu_santa@yahoo.com for more information.

We appreciate you, and thank, you for considering us as one of the programs to benefit from your generosity.

Alaska Attachment & Bonding Associates (AABA)

OUTDOORS

Welcome to the Mat-Su Special Santa Program!

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Valley Community Solutions (VCRS)

supplied food pantry, accepting cash and food donations from individuals and groups and supply clients with food for nutritionallybalanced meals to help people get back on their feet.

We also administer distribution of TEFAP government commodities. TEFAP is (The Emergency Food Assistance Program). This is a needs-based program, which may be accessed monthly by any client who meets the government-established-qualifications.

Food distributed is based on availability and instructions from USDA. In case of emergencies such as fire or earthquake in the valley, the Food Pantry of Wasilla also cooperates with other organizations and government agencies to render assistance.

Eddie Ezelle, 907-357-3769 Main 501 E.Bogard Rd., Wasilla www.foodpantryofwasilla.org

27

almost $20,000 which was then given to the Food Pantry of Wasilla and Turn A Leaf Thrift Stores. The Food Pantry provides emergency food supplies to families in need. Turn A Leaf has a medical lending equipment program which is now organized with software purchased with funds received. Both were grant recipients from the Mat Su Sertoma Club. Grant applications for the 2012 Mat Su Polar Plunge are located on our website: www. matsuplunge.com.

We have a wonderful club of volunteers!

On a weekly basis you’ll find a Mat Su Sertoman at the Food Pantry, Wasilla Senior Campus, Valley Charities, helping Special Olympics and the list goes on and on! Our goal for 2011/2012 year is to raise more than, $25,000 in polar plunge funds.

You can pledge or sign up to jump! Just visit our website for more information.

Join us every other Thursday at 5:00pm at the Tailgaters Sports Bar and Grill. Our next meeting is August 25th. We always have new speakers and a great time. See you there!

28

CALENDAR SUBMISSION 10th of each month by 5PM Email information to:

Dec 2012

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

makeasceneak@mac.com Free showing of Health Videos Dec. 20 7pm - 8:30pm Sweet Misery - about artificial sweetners Free Limited seating, call first Wayne Love 907-232-9088 www.h2oguys.net Cotton Patch Gospel play at Valley Performing Arts Nov 23 through Dec 23 Tickets are just $17 Students/Seniors and $19 Adults.

The University of Alaska, Cooperative Extension Service Office 809 S Chugach, Suite 2, Palmer Closed for winter holiday, Dec 17-Jan 1, 2013.

Portugal the Man Bear Tooth Theater, Anchorage Thurs, Dec 20, 8pm Festival of Lights, Quilt Show Reception & Winter Solstice Celebration Sun, Dec 21 6:30-7:30pm Quilt Show Reception / 7:30-8:30pm Festival of Lights events@denaliartscouncil. org or call 733-7929 Wasilla area schools Christmas Concerts Wasilla Area Senior Center 1301 S. Century Circle Wasilla, AK 99654 Dec. 19 – Wednesday – Midnight Sun Elementary School Dec. 20 – Thursday - Early Years School ALL Concerts are free.

Various schools Wasilla Area Senior Center, 376-3104 Talkeetna Happenings: Dec 23: Festival of Lights Readers Theater at the Sheldon Community Arts Hangar Dec 29: Christmas Bird Count Dec 31: New Year’s Eve Family Style Supper at the Talkeetna Roadhouse Dec 31: Last Chance Dance Party at the Sheldon

Community Arts Hangar Jan 13: Crafturday at the Northern Susitna Institute AARP TAX-AIDE PROGRAM Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. 1301 S. Century Circle Wasilla, AK 99654 DEC 22,29 & JAN 5 CALL FOR INFO AARP 5th Annual Christmas Bazaar Nov. 23 - Dec. 24, 2012 10am-6pm Seward Meridian Plaza 1401 Seward Meridian Pkwy, Ste.A, Wasilla, AK Free - 907-892-8233 Reindeer Farm Christmas!

Come visit with Santa and his elves on the Reindeer farm!

10am-6pm Fri, Dec 21, Sat Dec 22, Sun Dec 23 and Mon Dec 24 Dress warm!

Enjoy a Reindeer Tour, Sit on Santa’s lap, Crafts with Elves, Story with Buddy the Elf, Hay wagon ride, Bon Fire, Christmas lights timed to music and more! $7 per Adult, $5 Per child ages 2 and under are free.

Willow Public Library Dec 21, 2012, 3pm-6pm Willow Public Library invites you to come by for Last minute gifts…crafts to make, snacks to eat, a kid book to take home.

At World’s End Fri, Dec 21 - Sat, Dec 22 8pm-1am Dena’ina Center $15 Advance (November Price) $25 at the door Any Fred Meyer, the Sullivan Arena or Ticketmaster.com A Dose of Know-How 907-351-5647 www.facebook.com/adk907 Upper Room Arts Student Art Show 7335 E Palmer Wasilla Hwy. Across from the AT&T Sports Center Sat, Dec. 22nd. 5-7pm Free. Light refreshments served and live music by student volunteers Tina Fisher- Owner Upper Room Arts 907.355. 2428 www. upperroomarts.blogspot. com

Ruff: Peggy Shaw’s World Premiere Out North Contemporary Art House Dec 20-22 at 8pm $25 General Admission $20 students/military/seniors Palmer Historical Society Monthly Meeting Douglas Cruthers speaks From Mat-Su Dirtfishers Association Jan 16, 2013, 7pm Palmer Public Library Early Numeracy Workshop Tue, Jan 15, 2013 10AM-12PM Mat-Su Central School Auditorium Winter Solstice Hike or Snowshoe Sun, Dec 23 Moose Meadows Trail System meet at 12:30 pm, Sun, Dec 23, at the trailhead located at the east end of Wendt Road.

More info at www.vmbah. org/trailpost-news News From Arkose: Jan 1-14: Arkose Brewery will be closed.

Jan. 20: Join us for BEERUNCH at Rusty’s at Dahlia Street.

Get tickets now before we sell out - makes a great stocking stuffer.

Green Light Circus: Double Slide!

Thurs-Sat, Jan 3rd, 4th & 5th Ages: 1-4 @ 2-3pm Ages: 5-9 @ 3-5pm $5 unlimited sliding fun per day Contact R.G Denny at 7332340 with questions.

Craig Medred: Covering the Iditarod or Shivering in the Cold Dark?

Thur, Jan 3, 2013 11:30am-1:00pm Reservations: http://www.akprocom.org/ meetings.php 274-4723 tickets: $19-$25 akpc@gci.net Kinley’s Restaurant 3230 Seward Hwy Anchorage Sense and Sensibility Play at Valley Performing Arts Jan 11 - Feb 3rd Friday & Saturday 8pm and Sunday 2pm $17 Students/Seniors and $19 Adults

Valley Performing Arts, 373-0195 or tickets available on line Workshop on High Efficiency Wood Stoves & Masonry Heaters Mike Jefferies and Mark Masteller present Registration required as space is limited.

The workshop will run from 10am-2:30pm,Jan. 12 Agate Inn, Wasilla.

More info at www.ACAT.org or 907.229.1982.

Pulse Dance Company in Concert Fri Jan 25, - Sun, Jan 27 Fri/Sat 8pm, Sun 6pm APU Grant Hall Theatre 4101 University Dr., Anchorage, AK 99504 $20 http://www brownpapertickets.com/ event/304266 Pulse Dance Company 907-301-3208 Get Down and Derby in the MatSu! Sat, Jan 12, 2013, 6 pm Palmer MTA Events Center Denali Destroyer Dolls VS Boom Town Derby Dames Come see the two valley teams skate it out!

Outdoor Exercise (hike, explore, ski, snowshoe) Science and Nature Studies Field trips and guest speakers 700 acres of fields and forests!

Hands on projects and nutritious snacks Small classes and lost of fun!

Enrolling now! www. springcreekfarmak.org Session runs from Jan.28March 1, 2012

RECURRING NuKreationZ Art & Creativity Center Tues-Sat Noon-6pm Art gallery, classes and workshops Make your own pottery Palmer Museum New Hours Wed-Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10-2pm Free Admission Art Exhibits & More

Mat-Su Community Chorus Rehearsal Thursdays @ 7pm Wasilla High School All vocal ranges welcome No auditions necessary, unless 18 years of age or younger Mat-Su Concert Band Rehearsal Musicians Welcome Rehearsals are every Mon. 7 to 9 p.m.

Teeland Middle School.

For more information, contact Gleo Huyck at 7460628 matsuconcertband@gmail. com Learn to Skate 60 minute class for ages 3- Teens Curtis D Menard Memorial Sports Center Class schedule and registration forms are available online: www.cityofwasilla.com Wasilla Strong Women Strength Training Monday * Wednesday * Friday 10-11 am * Year Round Program * Call Sharon 3764434 Tuesday * Thursday 4:00 pm. Call Peggy 715-6338 Lower Level of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 501 E. Bogard Rd. Improve balance, strength, stamina and fight osteoporosis. $5.00 per 8 week session.

Harlan Scudder Performs Wasilla Lake Resort (Formerly Mat-Su Resort/ Rumrunners) Fridays 7:30-10:30 pm Borealis Dancers Tues and Thurs 7 to 8pm $20 a month call Georgie at 746-6504 or e-mail georgie@mtaonline. net Women, Wine & Wednesday Third Wed every month Presented by Lakeshore Studio East Lake Mall, Big Lake 6:30pm $25 RSVP 230-0935 Free Hearing Screening provided by Mat-Su Sertoma Club

First Sat Every Month 10am-1pm Wasilla Physical Therapy Deana Moore 761-5229 Whatever! Teen Lounge Featuring Wii gaming at Palmer Library T-Th, 2-4pm 746-4700 Alaska Celtic Pipes and Drums Free piping and drumming Instruction Every Fri Evening, 5-5:45 pm Eagle River Presbyterian Church 12836 Old Glen Hwy, Eagle River Wasilla Meta-Rose Library: Toddler Storytime Wed at 10:30am and 1:30pm Preschool Storytime Thurs at 10:30am and 1:30pm Baby Lapsit Storytime Fri at 10:30am Discussion Junction Family Book Club First Tues of each month Wasilla Meta-Rose Library Reading Rendezvous Last Saturday of every month.

Wasilla Meta-Rose Library Palmer Public Library: Baby Lap Sit Every Tues at 10am 2 year old Story Time Every Tues at 11am Baby Lap Sit Every Wed at 2pm 3-5 year old Story Time Every Thurs at 10:30am Foreign Film Every Second Fri at 7pm Schwabenhof Live Music Every Fri & Sat 9pm until…

Sunday Blues Open Mic Jam 9pm Tuesday Dart Night Palmer-Wasilla Hwy Fairview Inn Music Talkeetna Every Thur at 9:30pm Open Mic. Every Fri at 8pm and Sat at 10pm Live Music.

Sahara Storm Studio and Circus Arts Clinics 982-4955 Valley Arts Alliance Meeting Thursdays at 11:00am Sophia’s Cafe Neo, Palmer

BABY STEPS Walking Program for New & Expectant Moms & Dads Mon & Wed 8:00AM-Noon Menard Memorial Sports Center 357-9100 Business Networking International Every Tues 9am Menard Memorial Sports Center 357-9100

NAOI Outdoor Safety Classes Full schedule of classes online www.naoiak.org 376-2898.

The Crystal Mandala Classes A variety of creative classes Every Sat 2-5pm Palmer Museum of History and Art Open Everyday 9am-6pm Free Admission and light refreshments 725 S Valley Way, Palmer 746-7668 www.palmermuseum.org

Primrose Monthly Senior Breakfast First Tues of each month from 8-10am.

Free to all area seniors.

Bible Study Class Every Thurs 10:15a.m. - 11:15a.m.

Palmer Senior Citizens Center, Inc. d.b.a Mat-Su Senior Services 1132 S. Chugach St. Palmer Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. Events: 1301 S. Century Circle 373-3104 Church on the Rock Meeting Room #2 Every Sun 11 – 1 pm no charge 373-3104 Strong Seniors Every Mon, Wed and Fri 8:30am 10am 1pm $5 for the eight-week session Presented by: Club 50 Certified Trainers

Tai Chi Every Tues 2–3pm $5 for the eight week session Club 50 Wii Bowling Every Tues 1:00 and 2:30 pm No cost Wasilla Area Seniors- Game Room BINGO Every Wed 1 and 3pm For Bingo Cards and Pull Tabs Wasilla Area Seniors – Dining Hall Art Group Every Wed 1 and 3pm Wasilla Area Seniors – Game room Poker Every Thurs 1 and 3pm No Cost Wasilla Area Seniors – Game Room

Mat-Su College Apply for scholarships now New dance and music classes available spring semester Current employment opportunities Wasilla www.MatSu.Alaska.edu Public Skating Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri Noon-3pm Rates vary Menard Sports Center, Wasilla

Reindeer Farm Christmas!

Contributed by The

Sunday December 23rd and Monday December 24th.

Dress warm!

Come visit with Santa and his elves on the Reindeer farm as they are gearing up for Christmas night!

Come enjoy a Reindeer Tour, Sit on Santa’s lap, Crafts with Elves, Story with Buddy the Elf, Hay wagon ride, Bon Fire, Christmas lights timed to music and more!

The farm will be open from 10am-6pm Friday, December 21st, Saturday December 22nd,

Admission is $7 per Adult and $5 Per child ages 2 and under are free.

Reindeer Farm

Freestyle Figure Skating Call Menard Center for schedule $7.50 per session / $60 for 10 session punch card Menard Sports Center, Wasilla 357-9100

Denali Arts Council Board Meetings Second Mon of each month 7pm Talkeetna Public Library If you have questions or would like to be on the agenda, contact the DAC office at info@ denaliartscouncil.org.

Valley Fine Arts Association Sunday Champagne Brunch Friday Prime Rib Dinner November Art Exhibit with The Alaska Boathouse Restaurant Big Lake 892-8595 Alaska Bible College Spring Semester Registration Now! Principles of Biblical Interpretation New Testament Survey Evangelism & Discipleship Christian Teaching Ministry

CALENDAR SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 10th of each month by 5PM Email information to: makeasceneak@mac.com

Dec 2012

Artist Exposure in Alaska Side Kicks Gifts, TLC & More downtown Palmer Wed, 7-8pm each week beginning Sept 12 FREE (25% discount on artist’s productions 7-8p ONLY) Call 746-4438 or email sidekicksartists@yahoo.com email list Wednesdays with Hurricane Dave: Alaskana & Acoustic

Daily Lunch for Seniors 11:30 Salad Bar opens Weekly: Mondays: Blood Pressure, Tai Chi on video 10:30 in TV Room, Music during lunch.

Tuesday: Board Games, Exercise Classes with Pam Larson at 10:15 in Exercise classroom Wednesdays: Grocery Shopping, Exercise Classes with Toni Truesdell (10:00 in Exercise classroom), Tai Chi on video 10:30 in TV Room Thursdays: Bingo, Bible Study Fridays: Bridge, Wal-Mart and Tai Chi on video 10:30 in TV Room

Strong Women Health Hearts Every Tues and Thurs 10:30 – 11:00 am $5 for the eight week session Presented by: Club 50 Instructors/Video

All classes 6-9pm Dates: TBD Beginning the week of Jan 14-May 10, 2013 To register: www.AkBible.edu/Palmer 800-478-7884 creimer@akbible.edu Mat-Su Central School Enrolling K-12 Homeschool Support & Distance Delivery Education www.MatSuCentral.org Wasilla 352-7450

Museum of Alaska Transportation Open Everyday 10am-5pm 3800 W Museum Drive, Wasilla 376-1211

Mat-Su Senior Services Events:

Qigong Every Tues 8:30 - 9:30am $5 for the eight week session Club 50 Fitness Center

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Wasilla Bible Church Sunday Menard Memorial Sports Center 357-9100

Country With A Smile La Mex Restaurant – Dimond Location King Street, South Anchorage Every Wed 7-10 p.m.

No cover www.hurricanedavemusic. com hurricanedave@ hurricanedavemusic.com La Mex–Dimond phone: (907) 344-6399

29

Wasilla Hwy Tammy’s Turf for Tots!

For children 6 & under $5 per child Mon - Fri 10am-1pm Tues & Thurs FREE! Menard Memorial Sports Center: 357-9100

D I D YO U K NOW ? >> You can be a published writer! >> You can share your thoughts! >> You can promote your cause! >> You can spread the word!

Make A Scene is your locally-owned newspaper, and everything we publish comes from people like you! We don’t charge you for publishing your writing - our purpose is to give you, the community member, a voice. We don’t tell you what the news is – You to tell us, and we spread the word!

>> 10,000 copies every issue, every month, and growing! >> The more you get involved, the more we grow! >> Over 5 years in print, Make A Scene is all about you!

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com to submit content

Neil’s Lock & Safe

Burke’s

Military & Flag

“Your One Stop Veteran & Flag Shop”

Make Your Own Pottery! > Workshops & Classes: Art, Pottery, Wheel Throwing, Handbuilding & More > Stop by anytime to glaze your own pottery!

Hours: Thurs-Sat 12-6pm

Art Gallery Original local Mat-Su Artists Oil paintings, acrylics, bead work, pottery, fiber arts & more! Creativity welcome!

Call for art classes & workshops.

3.00 OFF

$

Clip & bring us this complete ad, your OLD U.S. Flag and receive $3.00 OFF the purchase of a NEW Flag 3’x5’ or larger.

Tues-Fri 11am-6pm

Sat 11am-5pm

490 E Railroad Ave, Wasilla ART & CREATIVITY CENTER

735 S Bailey Street, Palmer 746-2787

Thanks to the generous volunteer vets and techs, who on December 4, helped to spay and neuter 50 animals for low income Borough residents. These spays and neuters will help prevent over 500 unwanted kittens and puppies each year!

Thanks e specially to Dr. Alice and Tech Kaci and her wonderf ul guy for spending your day of f working like Rockstars! Thank you again to College Village Animal Clinic in Anchorage for your cont ribution of talented staf f and equipment and to Dr. Amanda f rom Far Count r y Animal Hospital in Palmer for being a neuter master!

A big thank you also goe s out to all our tirele ss Volunteers and Staf f f rom the Mat-Su Animal Shelter.

Thank You! Watch the Mat-Su Borough website for the next spay/neuter clinic coming up in February

355-8817

burkesmilitary@yahoo.com www.BurkesMilitaryandFlags.net

Something to say?

Write about it!

And send it to us: www.makeasceneak.com

Lakefront Dining Just 20 Minutes from Wasilla!

892-8595

Come join us on

New Year’s Eve! Happy Holidays!

Family-friendly fine dining on the shores of beautiful Big Lake

Join us this holiday season at the Sunset View Resort for a Special TWO night “Getaway Package” Getaway Package includes two Nights Double Occupancy, Breakfast basket for two on both mornings, and Dinner for 2 both nights at The Alaska Boathouse Restaurant (located on site at the Sunset View Resort) - Total Package is $479.00

For a Surf & Turf Dinner Special only $45 - Champagne at midnight Come and watch the fireworks around the lake.

(Reservations Reccommended)

www.AlaskaSunsetViewResort.com

892-8885

Spectacular Weddings

// Executive Retreats // Family Vacations // Fine Dining

Book Holiday Parties Now! 5268 S Big Lake Rd

892-8595

www.TheAlaskaBoathouse.com

Off Parks Hwy - Turn on Big Lake Rd Past Steve’s Food Boy Keep going till you see the sign on Right

OPEN!

Catering M-Th 5pm-9pm Available F-Sat 5pm-10pm Sun 11am-7pm

Business parties, holiday family get togethers, cooporate functions & more!