Make A Scene February 2014

Feb. 2014

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Ice Fishing Derby IN THIS ISSUE: > Backcountry Film Festival

Page 17

> New Art Venue at Mat-Su College Page 21

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Feb. 2014

Arts MEET IDITAROD ARTIST

JON VAN ZYLE

Art is Jon’s life and Alaska, all Alaska, has been his inspiration. Artist Jon Van Zyle has seen more of Alaska in a much more unique way than most can ever hope to experience. Jon has twice completed the 1049 miles of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race between Anchorage and Nome. From these adventures he has created the yearly Iditarod poster series commemorating the

race and his involvement. In 1979 he was made the official Iditarod artist, a title he

still holds today. In 2004 he was inducted into the Iditarod Hall of Fame

His acrylic paintings go beyond the race though, and encompass so much of

the Alaska beauty. Jon’s reputation as a storyteller through his art is further enhanced by his prints, posters and stone lithographs. Dog teams, landscapes, wildlife, Alaskan faces from native to newcomer, portray an intimacy with the land and it’s people.

He touches on history with studies of Alaskan pioneers and native traditions and lore recording the Alaskan spirit. Public acceptance of his shared feeling through his art has been his greatest reward.

> Meet the Official Iditarod Artist: JON VAN ZYLE IDITAROD RESTART Sunday, March 2nd from 10-4 at Willow Community Center 2014 Iditarod Print & Poster Children’s Books New Alaska Poster Series

Food

CAFÉ KUDRINO

Being February in Alaska, I personally am going to try the Curried Carrot and Coconut Milk soup!

Contributed by Lori Gorsch

The cook that makes up these delicious offerings is Riley Collins. He discovered his talent for cooking in high school and went on to get a Culinary Arts degree in Restaurant Management. He was part of a group of 7 who shared cooking classes and later kept in touch to share recipes from Hawaii, Louisiana, Pennsylvania , Ohio and of course, Alaska.

Adventures in Eating…

There’s a new eatery in town and I think you’ll love it! In the small row of shops in front of Fred Meyers, CAFÉ KUDRINO offers a delicious variety of eats.

Looking for a spot to meet a few friends for homemade soup or sandwiches?

Check out the Chicken Salad sandwich with cheese, sour cream and tiny bits of bacon to keep those taste buds happy. Along with a tasty variety of sandwiches, they also offer wraps, muffins, quiche, espresso and even gluten-free bread if needed!

The soups show those same taste buds the difference between warmed over canned soup and the real thing!

Tomato soup is such a passé dish, until you taste it here! And the Tuscan Chicken...

If you just want a quick but healthy snack, try their veggie juices. If you’re really bored….try a Frappe Expresso.

FORMERLY GELATO KUDRINO Now WE have expanded our location and menu stop in daily for great lunch specials between 11am-4pm

Although formerly cooking for the Palmer Deli, Riley Collins has also created dishes for a yacht club in Ohio and Princess Lodge in Denali. Now we get his full-time talents at our own Cafe Kudrino! Cafe Kudrino is owned by Richard and Colleen Stryker who also own the Palmer Deli.

Fresh made Gelato and Pastries Soups, pasta, sandwiches & wraps FRESH JUICING - TRY ONE OF OUR GREAT DRINKS OR MAKE YOUR OWN!

1601 Parks Highway | 907-357-0066 | Fred Meyer Parking Lot

BRING US YOUR BRING US BRING YOUR BRING US YOUR US YOUR PRINTING PROJECTS. PRINTING PRINTING PROJECTS. PRINTING PROJECTS. PROJECTS.

If you want to enjoy homemade Gelato after the movie or a game, pastries to give you quick energy (wink, wink) or just a nutritious lunch to fuel your afternoon, stop by and see (and taste!) for yourself.

Riley Collins-Chef

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Feb. 2014

Food

ZUSHI SUSHI

JAPANESE FUZION IN WASILLA

By Bryce Burkhart So I consider myself a lover of all things Japanese, and I take it pretty seriously.

As a result, I’m basically a hipstersnob when it comes to Japanese food, especially Sushi - because having been to Japan, I feel like I know what the Sushi experience should be like, and I haven’t experienced it in Alaska... until now.

I’ve been to Zushi twice, and it does well at being both modern and creative, but with a traditional flair and care for fresh ingredients you expect from a quality Sushi establishment.

The first time was a romantic date with my lady, who isn’t too keen on raw fish. We went all out with the unique fried selections.

They have a variety of choices for every palette - my girlfriend particularly enjoyed the Steak and Fry Roll - which is, believe it or not, beef wrapped in shredded potatoes

and fried. It’s not Sushi, but it’s out-of-this-world tasty!

The second time was a business lunch and we went a little more traditional. Tuna and Salmon sashimi was of the most top quality, and the “Volcano Roll” was creative and delicious.

If you can tell by the pictures to your left, that’s Black Rice, also known as purple rice, or forbidden rice. I was skeptical at first, but let me tell you: it makes a huge difference.

The texture and flavor is among the best rice I’ve ever had.

According to Wikipedia: Black rice is a deep black color and usually turns deep purple when cooked. Its dark purple color is primarily due to its anthocyanin content, which is higher by weight than that of other colored grains.

Black rice was proclaimed as a ‘superfood’ worldwide largely thanks to an important piece of research by Dr. Zhimin Xu, titled “Black rice rivals pricey blueberries as source of healthful antioxidants”.

The research stated that “just a spoonful of black rice bran contains more health promoting anthocyanin antioxidants than are found in a spoonful of blueberries, but with less sugar and more fiber and vitamin E antioxidants”.

With interesting additions like black rice, beautiful table settings, the ambiance is really laid back - with excellent music choices playing lightly in the background..

The drink selection is also great cool beer and premium sake, as well as a homemade cinnamon-ginger tea that will knock your socks off. There are small touches, like chocolate dipped fortune cookies and orange slices in the ice-water that really stand out.

The restaurant is very clean and well designed, and the presentation and chef’s technical skill are shockingly world-class for an all-American town like Wasilla, Alaska.

> I suggest you check it out

if you’re a fan of Sushi, but you should definitely check it out if you’ve never had Sushi before!

“In ancient China, black rice was considered the finest grain and only served to the Emperor.

Therefore, it sometimes is called “forbidden rice,” as it was off limits for the general public.”

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Feb. 2014

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Words: Parenting Pride

By Kellie Coulson

Last week I had to get out of the house to do some reading for school. I went to the nearest Starbucks and sat down during a quiet time, only to have my solitude shaken by a very pregnant woman and her four kids.

I saw myself from 12 years ago in her, and as her kids and she settled in for a late morning treat, heard them praying (the prayer was loquacious and detailed, but the kids, each with a tasty cookie in front of them, kept their heads bowed) and then the usual rustling as they got situated.

When my kids were little and I was pregnant, I did not understand why I had other people glaring at me. My kids were wonderful and well behaved, and yet several times, comments were made about me knowing what caused children as if they were bad, and I even had women mouth, "birth control" at me and laugh at themselves.

Last week, I got it. I would never have asked that young mother if she knew what caused babies, nor would I make a crude suggestion of birth control. Her kids were good kids and well behaved, and she was clearly having a happy pregnancy experience. But. . . I got it. I got both sides. A small crowd is going to be noisy even if they don't speak as there will

always be a patter of footsteps, and the scraping of chairs, the removal of jackets and placing of purses.

Moms and dads of young children become impervious to the noise that is natural, and it's OK. Other people often have no clue as to why anyone would "do that to themselves" and take on such a task. I realized how hard it was to have such a large family, but I didn't comprehend it all at the time.

I went to the counter and bought a $10 gift card for the mom, I wanted to tell her what sweet kids she had and tell her that I had nine kids and that she could use it however she liked, but that I hoped that if she got out of the house alone that she could use it.

I walked over to her and complimented her family and I told her that I had nine, myself.

She was wearing a filigree cross on her neck and told me what a blessing her children were. I'm familiar with the talk and smiled and nodded.

Children are a blessing from the Lord, each one is unique with their own gifts, and it is wonderfully challenging to do what is best for each child to help them all reach their full potential.

Then her head snapped, if I had nine kids, she wanted to know where they were. I told her that two were in college, and the rest were in school.

She asked if I had them in a religious school and I said no, just regular public school.

(Several are in a charter school, but it's still public.) Her

shoulders straightened, her eyes narrowed, and her voice went up an octave, and she said that she homeschooled her children and that as a Christian mother, she would never, ever trust her babies to the public school system, she was a mom to her kids!

Her nose and lips curled into a sneer. Her implication that I was not doing well by my children hung in the air.

"Well, nice family," I said, and put the gift card into my purse.

Had I given her the card, she would have surely not enjoyed the treat as much since she found me distasteful, I have friends with birthdays and I have kids in college who would appreciate a Starbucks card from me.

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Pets & Animals

It is amazing that Sam has such a wonderful personality, considering that he was abandoned by his former guardians and has lived outside, with his brother.

Although he enjoys the outdoors, Sam’s favorite place is inside, with a human. Sam is learning to walk on a leash and is learning basic commands.

Sam had to scrounge for food and never knew where his next meal was coming from.

“Please give Sam either a foster or permanent home, so that he can live the wonderful life that he deserves.”

Sam is a confident dog who gets along with other dogs, if they are not domineering.

> To learn more about Sam, contact Donna (Alaska Animal Advocates) at 315-5050 OR email AAArescue@yahoo.com

By Angie Lewis

He has been around elementary aged children, and does great with them, but we don’t know how he would interact with toddlers.

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Meet Sam

DID YOU KNOW?

Feb. 2014

The Newfoundland breed has a water resistant coat and webbed feet. This dog was bred to help haul nets for fishermen and rescuing people at risk of drowning.

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Feb. 2014

Pets & Animals Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary

Contributed by Jeanette Rogers

emergency funding to purchase hay for the rescued rabbits. This hay provides the necessary roughage for the bunnies digestion as well as bedding through the frigid nights.

Second, we would like to thank all the people who donated to the Anchorage Petco stores during their Breed in Need fund drive. It was a wonderful surprise to receive a check that will provide the animals with feed.

Third, we would like to thank the wonderful Alaskans who donated a portion of their dividends this year to the Pick.Click.Give program.

Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary would like to publicly thank the many people and organizations that have come forward to help the rescued animals in our care this year.

First, we would like to thank the Petco Foundation for providing the

Keep your pets safe

Contributed by Carol Vardeman At the shelter, we see way too many stray cats and dogs, and an unfortunate number hit by cars. You may think your pet is safe when not on a leash, but what if you’re wrong?

The consequences can be devastating.

Dogs on leashes don’t get hit by cars.

They don’t chase squirrels or cats into the street. They don’t unintentionally injure someone.

Believe it or not, not everyone likes dogs! Even a friendly dog running up to some people can be frightening.

The money that they donated will also be used towards the long winter feed bills as well as extra treats and emergency veterinary services. “...we

would like to thank the wonderful Alaskans who donated a portion of their dividends this year to the Pick.Click.Give program.”

Someone truly afraid may act out of fear and injure your dog. Property owners can be particular about cats and dogs on their lawns. It’s a good neighbor policy to keep your pet on leash and from becoming a nuisance to others around you.

Safeguard your pet with a microchip.

If lost or stolen, his or her true identity is just a scan away.

Cruelty to Dogs

Contributed by Angie Lewis Cruelty toward dogs spans a range of behaviors such as neglecting a dog to actually physically harming a dog, perhaps causing his death.

Intentional cruelty to any animal should be a cause of great concern to society, not only because it harms the animal, but also because there is a direct correlation between animal cruelty and cruelty toward human beings.

There are people who would suggest that as a social creature, a dog should never be isolated from his family for a long period of time. They might say that this animal’s biological needs are being met, but his social needs are sorely neglected.

Call the police or Animal Control.

Make sure to have the facts – write down what you have seen Share informational materials about preventing animal cruelty (Humane Society of the U.S. 1 888 213-0956).

Be a role model for the responsible treatment of dogs Keep your eyes open for abuse or neglect.

Be proactive – teach young children how to treat animals respectfully.

Be aware of websites that promote animal cruelty – contact the service provider that hosts the web site and ask that it be removed.

Feb. 2014

Puppy mills are large-scale commercial dog breeding operations that focus on making monetary profits, rather than the mental and physical well-being of the dogs.

Many of the dogs that live in these facilities suffer extreme health and emotional problems.

Whether you are witness to, or are aware, of neglect or violence toward a dog, there are things that you can do to help.

The treatment this dog receives does not break any laws, and yet, it certainly violates the concept of kindness and humanity toward an animal. Fortunately, some states are finally making it illegal to chain dogs in this manner.

Dog fighting provides examples of the cruelest treatment of dogs.

Dogs are forced to fight one another, often to the death. Small animals such as cats are used as bait. Dogs are also used for bait, particularly if they have proven themselves to be too gentle or afraid to fight. Pit Bull type dogs are the most common victims of dog fighting.

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Defining animal cruelty can be more difficult than one would imagine.

As an example of this, think of a dog that is fed, watered, and cleaned up after on a regular basis. However, this same dog is also chained up 24 hours a day, in the backyard. Is this dog a victim of cruelty?

More and more owners of puppy mills are being prosecuted for inhumane care, but there are still many more that continue to do business at the expense of the dogs.

Greyhound racing is a “sport” that allows for the killing of thousands of dogs, on a yearly basis, because they are no longer profitable to their owners. These dogs could lack racing potential or have been injured as a result of racing. Often, when these dogs become too old to race, they are destroyed.

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Pets & Animals

Social Issues The 21st Century Thought Crime Construct

By R. Edward Lyons Jr.

We are living in an age when, as Marshal McLuhan asserts in his book The Medium is the Message, how something is said counts as much or more than what is actually said.

To observe the validity of this, one merely has to watch a television news broadcast.

Whether it is a Presidential pronouncement, a newscaster’s pontifications, or an infomercial’s bombast, it has become a virtual cult to have pronouncements accompanied by a background of nameless faces nodding agreement, shaking their heads in disagreement, and punctuating various points with rolling eyes, sneers, spurts of forced joviality or insincere outrage.

Even broadcasts billed as fair and balanced cannot resist the temptation.

Everyone involved, of course, lays claim to the moral high ground of merely illuminating the background situation underlying a particular issue in order to help educate the public. Yet for all their sanctimonious assertions, the reality is that it is merely an effort to use emotion to enhance or distort the factual basis of the message.

While thoughts and ideas can only be articulated by language, emotions can be communicated non-verbally (tears, scowls, frowns, even stance) and these can markedly alter the perception of thoughts and ideas.

Eric Arthur Blair, the British socialist writer and thinker castigated the Stalinist model of totalitarian

socialism in the mid-portion of the 20th Century. Writing as George Orwell, he censured Soviet Communism while asserting his support of “democratic socialism”.

He failed, however, to recognize the oxymoron of “democratic socialism” despite having concluded that liberals were “power worshippers without power”. For the basic tenet of socialism is the concept of social responsibility. Notwithstanding the high blown rhetoric surrounding that phrase, all too often the practice of social responsibility degenerates into merely a set of behaviors, which the majority of middle-class Americans must modify so that an elitist minority can continue their lifestyles unchanged. Whether it is the guru of climate change admonishing the sweaty masses to reduce their carbon footprint while his remains many times that of the average household’s, or a major political leader arrogantly demanding every citizen pay to fund contraceptive pills for every woman in America; in the end it is always the same melody to a worn out song: an elitist minority arrogantly decides it knows how everyone else should live and that in the interest of the greatest good for the greatest number, it has the right to force that behavior on others.

One of the biggest tools they have is the concept of politically correct speech. As Blair noted, “if thoughts corrupt language, language corrupts thought.” In essence, if language is controlled by others, the thought process is corrupted, for ideas and thoughts can only be articulated by language. Therefore, placing large portions of language offlimits inevitably restricts avenues of thought. And such curtailments impede deductive processes leading to a thought product, which has not been

fully explored and developed, and therefore has not been freely arrived at. Essentially, the results have been channeled into certain directions yielding predictable outcomes.

Exhortations to the public to acquiesce in deleting words or phrases from their vocabulary deemed by others to be politically offensive results in a selfimposed censorship which renders Orwell’s Thought Crime-Thought Police complex described in his novel 1984 obsolete. When this occurs, emotions replace reason, thereby infringing liberty far more than has ever been wrought with firearms.

A look at the definition of propaganda should suffice to reveal a sad reality of human life, that the demarcation between politically correct speech and naked propaganda is shadowy at best. The New Oxford American Dictionary defines propaganda as chiefly derogatory information, esp. of a biased or misleading nature, used to promote or publicize a particular political cause or point of view.

Restricting thought processes by selfimposed censorship is a cheap means of inducing biased and misleading reasoning and deduction, saving the state the expenditure of effort and treasure in creating an enforcement mechanism to channel public opinion to governmentally acceptable conclusions.

Hand in glove with political correctness is the concept of rationalized failure.

For over two decades, a mindset of justifying and excusing the failure to achieve specified standards has been created in America: the socalled “E for effort” congratulatory process. The concept that we as a society must denigrate those who achieve in order to make underachievers feel better about themselves instead of urging underachievers

to strive harder to meet standards, is a certain path to mediocrity and slavery. Whether it involves school children and honor roll status, or a Presidential administration’s failures in foreign and domestic policy, expecting adherence to a standard of behavior or achievement has become an object of ridicule. Indeed, among large segments of the population, the concept of an immutable standard, whether of performance, ethics, or even the definitions of words has become an object of derision. This is part of the reason religion is so denigrated by extremists. Religion implies a Supreme Being and a Supreme Being implies an immutable standard of moral behavior, which is a direct threat to the doctrine of situational ethics that dominates both extremes of the political spectrum.

If behaviors are intrinsically good or bad, if words have established, fixed meanings, then “agenda speak” becomes untenable and political spin can no longer shield policy or personal behavior from appraisal and assessment against a solid standard of achievement or morality. If words have concrete definitions, then abortion remains killing defenseless unborn babies. One cannot euphemize it as making reproductive choices or controlling one’s own body in order to live as one chooses. The behavior is what it is; as Mother Teresa once said, “It is a poverty to decide that a child must die so that you may live as you wish.”

Without the camouflage of political spin, administration scandals such as IRS targeting of political opponents and failed agreements about nuclear programs involving America’s enemies become perceivable, allowing the public to observe that the Emperor’s new clothes do not even exist.

> CONTINUES ON PAGE 34

Leg Hold Trapping: A Bygone Activity

By William Zeddies

The snow was deep during the winter of 2011, so deep sound echoed for miles, but the location of crying and barking we were hearing was hard to pinpoint. We heard our boy Ranger crying and yipping, so knew he was in trouble.

After trying to reach him on foot to no avail, we called friends and family to help in the search. His voice would sound like he was near, so we desperately rode snowmobiles to the area, but found nothing. That went on for three hours. Finally, we found him caught in a wolf trap just off a small road near our home.

At our veterinarian clinic, staff worked to patch him up under anesthesia. His leg was x-rayed, cleaned and bandaged. Most of his front teeth were removed and, his head was again filmed to look for fragments of tooth left behind. Dr. Brian Baetsle documented the case with photos.

We were warned he might end up losing his leg to infection due to the cracked bone and nasty trap. Dr.

Of course, observation over the following year saw him miserable and fighting dental pain, so three more teeth were removed. Today, his front shoulder is sore and stiff from uncontrollably fighting the leg hold trap. His mouth looks like someone set off a bomb in it. He eats most days, but seldom chews his food at all. The most important canine teeth are gone or broken off.

Our total doctor bills for this so far have reached $2.000.00. It is money we didn’t have to freely spend. I often thought of bringing legal action against the man who may or may not know I am aware of his nonsense.

Sometimes, we are best suited to letting karma do its job. Cooler heads will prevail.

I believe the “human” race should end this disgusting sport, hobby, or occupation all together. If that is not possible, then new laws need to be enacted, limiting trapping distances from residences. As a kid, I trapped rabbits, but soon realized how painful and horrifying it is to catch an animal by the leg. They really do try to chew away the caught part in order to survive.

4900 E. Palmer-Wasilla Hwy Ste 3 and educator rates!

Jim Davis 907-745-8030 jim.davis@horacemann.com Call me about Life Insurance.

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Today, the trapper has not come forth to apologize. All he was worried about was retrieval of his trap. The fish and game officer who investigated the incident became unreachable afterwards. He stated the trapper acted within the law.

Above him, in a stand of alders and, a small spruce tree, hung a gruesome

He cried and moaned as blood began to flow back to his foot. A wide open four inch torn gash revealed a damaged leg bone. I turned to his bloody mouth. He had bitten so hard on the trap that most of his front and side teeth were broken off or hanging by the nerves. The roots were still in place, bleeding freely. His lips shown the signs of frostbite from frozen metal.

Fisher, the charge veterinarian, also stated there might be more dental work, but felt it best to take a wait and see attitude.

His front leg was pinched in metal hell above his paw. Blood still dripped from the wide wound he had opened in the struggle to get free. His mouth dripped red fluid and slobber.

sight. Several duck skins with heads and feet attached tempted any canine that should smell them. Along with the ducks, wasted whole salmon delivered a pungent lure that rode the air for miles. The trap had been secured to the spruce by wire.

I waded through waist deep snow some twenty feet to remove the wired trap from the tree and, carry the boy to hard ground behind our truck. He could still manage to wag his tail in delight upon seeing me.

My wife grabbed a blanket from the truck and, we covered his head to prevent being bitten. I set the trap and mangled leg on the packed roadway. Pushing down, I used my feet to release the horrible menace from his leg.

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After reading the article from the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, January 26, 2014, on www.adn. com, I was not shocked to hear that inhumane, unthoughtful people are still trapping too close to residences, trapping pets. I have pulled one of my dogs from a trap after searching for him nearly three hours. This is the account of his misery and our nightmare:

The LLC Call Insurance me about lifeStore, insurance

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Pets & Animals

Feb. 2014

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Feb. 2014

Community

Alaska’s Healing Hearts

Warriors in Winter

By Christina Holden

Conditions in Alaska have been ideal for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, ice fishing and mushing.

The past few months have kept us busy, working and planning top notch winter adventures for military heroes and their families. We’re also excited to team up with Battle Dawgs Racing in preparation for Iditarod- The Last Great Race on Earth!

Military Appreciation Night of Skiing at Hilltop Ski Area: We held our first Military Appreciation Night at Hilltop in January. We partnered with Hilltop Ski Area to host an evening of skiing and snowboarding. Military personnel and their families enjoyed free lift tickets, lessons, food and prizes!

More than 200 military members joined the fun. Due to overwhelming positive response from this event, we decided to do it again in February!

Single digit temps prevented families with small children from joining us, but we hosted more than 200 participants for the 2nd time. Thanks to our generous sponsors-- Hilltop Ski Area, Play It Again Sports, Ondago DJ Entertainment, Odom Corporation, Chevrolet of South Anchorage, and REI for making these winter events possible.

477th Fighter Group Ice Fishing Tournament: Alaska’s Healing Hearts sponsored a group of veterans and 8 active-duty service members to participate in the Third Annual Ice Fishing Tournament.

The tournament was held at the Palmer Elks Lodge on Finger Lake in February.

Great prizes and raffles were held at this event. We’re already looking forward to participating again next year.

AHH Teams Up with Battle Dawgs Racing: This year, we’re proud to partner with Rick and Jennifer Casillo, owners of Battle Dawgs Racing in an effort to expose our wounded heroes and veterans to the therapeutic and exciting experience of Alaska’s great outdoors by the power of sled dogs. Battle Dawgs Racing worked with AHH, offering services and their kennel as a means of healing through Alaska’s Healing Hearts.

We are working with Battle Dawgs to provide free glacier dog sled tours this summer and hosting events at their kennel in Willow during the winter training season. At the kennel, our veterans have played an integral role in preparation of the 2014 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. For more information, go to: www.battledawgsracing.com Stay tuned as we anticipate a busy spring and summer. We are excited to be planning outdoor activities, as well as working to provide job training and employment opportunities. For information on Alaska’s Healing Hearts, visit our website at www. alaskashealinghearts.com

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Boating Skills Class Begins March 3 In Eagle River

Submitted by Doris Thomas “Boating Skills and Seamanship,” a 13-lesson course for recreational boaters, begins Monday, March 3, at the UAA Eagle River campus, 10928 Eagle River Rd.

Subjects covered in the course will include small boat handling, trailering, legal requirements, marine radio procedures, navigation rules, piloting, weather considerations and knots.

The cost is $69, which includes the text and workbook. Course plotting instruments (parallel rules and dividers) are not included, but will be needed for an exercise during the course.

Students can register and pay in advance at www.uaa.alaska.edu/ continuinged, or by phone at (907) 786-6790. The course number is CES 005.

The class is offered through the UAA Continuing Education Department by Flotilla 33, United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Classes will run from 6:30 to > Questions can be directed 9:30 p.m. Monday nights through to Mel Kalkowski, the April 28. UAA will grant l.6 CEUs flotilla’s public education to educators who complete the officer, at melkal@gci.net course.

Six $2,000 First Student Scholarships Offered by Mat-Su Schools Foundation

Submitted by Linda Conover > First Student is awarding

six $2000 scholarships to 2014 Graduates of the Mat-Su Borough School District.

A minimum of two of these scholarships will be awarded to a student receiving special education services and has a current IEP.

Deadline is April 11, 2014.

Scholarship applications are available online at matsuschoolsfoundation.com and at local high schools.

Applications can be preferably emailed to FirstStudent@ matsuschoolsfoundation.org, or if unable to email, mailed with postmark dated prior to April 11, 2014 to: Linda Conover Mat-Su School Foundation 7362 W. Parks Hwy, #782 Wasilla, AK 99623

WRITE ON.

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Feb. 2014

Community

Lance Mackey Benefits Contributed by Donna Quante

Most Alaskans know the name Lance Mackey, 4 time Yukon Quest and 4 time Iditarod Champion.

Most of you know that Lance is a cancer survivor and is still struggling with the after effects of cancer treatment. Lance’s medical bills have reached a critical point. His insurance does not cover dental bills, which is where his problems are right now. Two things are being done by friends of Lance to help alleviate this situation.

First, there is The Lance Mackey Medical Fund campaign being managed on FundRazr. The brain child of Kirsten Ballard, Lance did not ask for this fund, but has accepted it. All money goes toward paying his current medical/dental bills which have been accumulating since treatment on his jaw which was left in shambles following radiation for cancer. You can read more about this at: fundrazr.com

Second, The Down East Saloon in Homer is holding a benefit for Lance on February 28, 2014. This will be a covered dish event. Activities include: live and silent auctions, book signings, photo shoot, Iditarod documentary viewing, the lovely music of Sabe Flores and a talk by Lance.

If you’ve ever heard Lance speak, you know what a treat this will be. Homer’s own cancer survivor, Jon Cox, will introduce Lance.

The public is invited and welcome to attend this event which starts at 3 pm.

The documentary, CHASING HISTORY:IDITAROD 2010, starts at 5:30 pm and auctions start at 7 pm. (Cash, check or money orders only. Sorry no credit cards.)

> Donations for the auction can be

made by contacting Marlene at the Down East Saloon: 907-235-6002 or email: downeastsaloon@yahoo.com. The Saloon is located at 3125 East End Road in Homer.

> Photo courtesty of Donna Quante

EVENTS AT PALMER MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART Although the winds may be lingering in the valley this spring, it’s no excuse to stay home and miss out on all the exciting events that are taking place at the Palmer Museum. The museum has a new exciting exhibit for March, is currently accepting applications for its annual Art Acquisition, and has a fun edition of the Palmer Art Walk planned!

From its humble beginnings in 1938 through today, album covers have not only reflected the social and economic changes in our society but have also served as a platform for various artists. It was one of the few mediums at the time which reached millions of people that had a truly global impact thus providing designers with a canvas through which they could express their creativity and originality to the whole world. It was also considered to be among the most effective marketing tools.

Currently, the museum is also accepting applications for its 2014 Art Acquisition. Each year, the museum selects an art work from living Alaskan artists to purchase and enter into its contemporary art collection. The work is purchased through the Rasmuson Art Acquisition Fund and is displayed in the museum’s extension gallery located in the Palmer Public Library.

This year, all entries will be put on display at the museum during the month of May and members of the Palmer Museum’s Board of Directors will announce the winning selection during the museum’s annual meeting scheduled for Saturday, May 3rd.

All interested artists who would like to be considered can pick up an application in Palmer at the Palmer Museum or in Wasilla at the Dorothy Page Museum. All applications are due by Saturday, April 12th.

Are you finding that there is not much to do in the valley at the beginning of the month? Well there is no need to stay home during a second Saturday because once again, downtown Palmer is hosting its monthly Palmer Art Walk each second Saturday from 2:00 – 6:00PM.

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

And then send it to us at Make A Scene!

Feb. 2014

For March, the Art Walk is going to the dogs. Several of our Art Walk stops will be celebrating our friendly companions with dog-centric events.

The following is just a taste of some of the events that are planned: year and for those that are struggling with health issues this year.

Read something you don’t like?

Oftentimes, the album cover was the main contributing factor that persuaded people to purchase an album, rather than the music itself.

In many cases, the cover design was in fact much better than the music it represented. In the exhibit, visitors will have the opportunity to see how even notable artists like Andy

Warhol contributed towards the LP cover art form and perhaps even catch a glimpse of an album they once cherished in their youth. The exhibit will be on display through the end of April.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Beginning March 1st, the museum will be displaying its new temporary exhibit The Artistry of Hi Fidelity, a visual history of the development and evolution of LP cover art. The exhibit will be displaying over twenty various album covers spanning over five decades of music.

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Community

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Feb. 2014

Literature

Seven Things I Learned from One of

my Novel Series Reader’s Email I recently received this email, which I have used with the writer’s permission: Subject: Questions From: “Torkos Attila” Date: Fri, Jan 10, 2014 9:06 pm To: bonnye@booksbybonnye.com Dear Ms. Matthews, My name is Attila Torkos, I am an ENT physician. I am also a fan of reading.

I just finished reading your first 2 novels in The Winds of Change series. I found your books very eye opening and entertaining at the same time. Thank you very much for writing them.

I would like to know when you expect Book 3 to be available. I am looking forward to hearing from you. Keep up the fantastic writing!

Kindest regards, Attila Torkos

Aside from the fact that the email really made my day, I learned seven things:

1.

Don’t automatically delete foreign emails. I say this because there are some scammers who send questionable, if not outright destructive, emails once they find an email address. I suggest looking at emails through the preview frame for safety. If I’d deleted this email, I would have missed a lot.

2. Books are available worldwide.

That goes without saying, until it hit me that my book was not only available but also was being read outside the USA. That was a stunning revelation to me, when readers all

over the USA don’t even know I exist.

Google Analytics makes it clear that people in Uruguay, Philippines, Canada, Argentina, Japan, Mexico, India, Ukraine, Hungary, Russia, Australia, and England had hit my website. They may not have read the books, but they came to the website.

I found that amazing, but it carried no specific meaning. I had seen the Amazon book sales listings from different countries, but none of it really sank in until I read this email.

The email writer is a real person. We connected in a social interaction. Two strangers a world apart connected by books! My books? Still boggles my mind. Yes, I am truly a neophyte at this. I hope that doesn’t change. The wonder of it is a delightful experience!

3. Participate in the social interaction.

I am a private person. It has never been my approach to others to ask many questions that might be viewed as prying. I was, however, fascinated by the contact, so I asked him what is his country. What I learned is that he is Hungarian and is working in the United Arab Emirates. His email taught me not to stand back but to communicate socially with readers. I recognize this reader as a real person, not just a reader. That’s why this media form is called social media. To most people that again may sound like it goes without saying, but my initial reaction to “social media” was that it was not social at all. I was wrong.

4. Listen to what readers say. Attila

found the books “eye opening and entertaining.” That’s why I write.

His words were a validation that my purpose was reaching someone, and what a delight that is! When something I’ve written resonates with someone half way around the globe in a culture that is different from mine, that makes such a special connection.

The world becomes smaller. It also validates one of the premises of my

books, people are people all equal regardless of what they look like, when they live, or where they live.

5. Answer the question and even add information. Aside from letting him know when the third book, Zamimolo’s Story, 50,000 BC, is due out, I shared the information about where some of the People migrated from China/ Mongolia. They move to Central America. Some of the differences they encounter are: hotter temperature and lack of seasonal variation, flora and especially fauna, and people from different backgrounds and locations around the globe. Zamimolo’s Story, 50,000 BC will debut earlier than expected. The last part of January, it went to the publisher. It’s my favorite of the three books.

6. I need to see my target audience

differently. I could not have projected Attila as part of my target audience.

His email was serendipitous. On the writer (artist)—author (entrepreneur) continuum, specialized genre authors like me (prehistoric fiction) might think in terms broader than our genre when considering a target audience for writing or marketing as a result of the internet. It’s not necessary, for example, to be a professional or amateur student of anthropology or archaeology to enjoy prehistoric fiction. Others may come to it and enjoy it for other reasons than their own sphere of knowledge.

7. I need to shift what I was putting on my blog to my Facebook page, and change the substance of my blog. I realized that the Facebook Author Page was great for sharing articles and their pictures that focus on early man. My blog was more of a personal thing where I should share what I learn from my own writer(artist)— author(entrepreneur) experience.

Thank you, Attila Torkos!

at Rock On Climbing

1080 Wasilla-Fishhook Rd., Wasilla

An evening of films, food and drinks, door prizes, demonstrations, and community!

Tickets are $15 online: www.envisionmatsu.org

Film > Photos from “Valhalla”,

this event’s feature film.

Courtesy of Sweetgrass Productions

Contributed by Liz Robinson Winter is full of ups and downs, especially this year in Alaska, but why not celebrate winter and embrace the “up”? It’s time to round up your friends and come celebrate the fun and beauty of the mountains at the Ninth Annual Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Festival hosted for the first time ever by Envision MatSu at the new local rock gym, Rock On Climbing in Wasilla.

The ten unique films included in this year’s Backcountry Film Festival will inspire you to embrace the “up”. The films come from renowned filmmakers who search backcountry corners across the globe (including Alaska!) to submit their best work, and from grassroots filmmakers who take a video camera out on their weekend excursions.

Feb. 2014

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At every festival stop, funds raised through screenings stay in local communities to support like-minded efforts. This event will be a fundraiser for Envision Mat-Su, a nonprofit based in Palmer working on sustainable community development for the entire Mat-Su Valley. Envision Mat-Su’s mission is to “actively engage Mat-Su residents and other Alaskans in the conservation, restoration, stewardship and enhancement of our region’s most valuable

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Backcountry Film Festival

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Friday, March 7th at 7:00pm

Feb. 2014

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

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Film

The Moosataur

in the Making

By Jamie O’Connor

Every good story needs a villain. The Carpenter brothers are bringing on the heebie-jeebies in their upcoming comedy/thriller/sci-fi/spoof “Moose”.

Chad Carpenter, the cartoonist behind Tundra Comics, and his big brother Darin co-wrote the script for this live-action, feature-length, film with a bad-guy as Alaskan as they come.

Half-man, half-moose the Moosataur is a taxidermy project unlike any most of us have seen. Fearsome grizzly bear teeth are set in the hinged jaw of a modified Plexiglas moose head.

The eyes glow red and the ears are laid back so the creature looks perpetually ticked off. The hide will be stretched over the head in the coming weeks and the rubber-cast rack will be attached.

The brothers have called on another of Alaska’s celebrities, star of the History Channel’s Mounted in Alaska and Animal Planet’s Moose Men, Russell Knight to make this man-eater come to life. Knight of Knight’s Taxidermy in Anchorage has expended his time and considerable talent creating a creature that will send a chill up the spines of moviegoers.

> Look for updates on the

“Moose” the movie on Twitter @MoosetheMovie and on Facebook at tundracomics.

Support and assistance to families caring for children and youth with special needs.

www.linksprc.org 373-3632

3161 E Palmer-Wasilla Hwy, #2 9AM-4PM Mon-Fri

LINKS serves communities located within the Mat-Su Borough School District, including outreach to remote areas and villages, to provide support and training, parent-toparent connections to mentors, information and referral, and access to library materials. These services are provided through one-on-one assistance and individualized workshops for small or large groups.

The Carpenter brothers are bringing on the heebie-jeebies in their upcoming comedy/thriller/sci-fi/spoof “Moose”

> Tickets: dusttodawn.bpt.me > More information:

www.PulseDanceCompany.org

Pulse Dance CoMPANY:

Dust to Dawn

Contributed by Stephanie Wonchala Anchorage’s Pulse Dance Company brings their fourth season to a close at APU Grant Hall Theatre with the premiere of From Dust to Dawn February 21-23.

Interspersed in this honest work are instances of comedy and lightheartedness, and performers shine in moments of light amidst the dark. Join the company for a journey of self-discovery, a testament to the strong human spirit within us all.

From Dust to Dawn features new choreography

by Artistic Director Stephanie Wonchala, guest choreography by Alice Bassler Sullivan, scenic design by Ruby Kennell, sound design by Ivan Night, and lighting design by Cedar Cussins.

Opening night includes a one-time only formal gala with a VIP backstage tour (and champagne toast with the cast!) option, silent auction, complimentary beverages and red carpet photos.

Friday and Saturday shows are at 8pm; Sunday’s show is at 6pm.

Feb. 2014

Tickets: dusttodawn.bpt.me More information: www.PulseDanceCompany.org

This technically challenging, large-scale production features choreography that is simultaneously intricate and athletic and communicates timeless societal themes that are applicable locally, nationally, and worldwide.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

This talented corps of local dancers presents evocative movement alongside curious imagery and emotionally laden dance-theater. Inspired by numerous “end of the world” perspectives and scenarios, this evening length concert explores love, loss, perseverance in the wake of devastation and the importance of hope.

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Entertainment

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Feb. 2014

Community

Matsu Kids Ice Fishing Derby 2014!

By Ehmann Outdoors

Strong communities make for successful events and our community is no exception.

The Matsu Kids Ice Fishing Derby is Alaska’s largest Ice Fishing Derby and raised $11,000 for Make-A-Wish Alaska in 2013. This year the derby is already exceeding goals and on track to break all records from last years event.

Butch and I were born and raised in Palmer and organize this event through our Outdoor Outreach and Education business Ehmann Outdoors. We are in complete awe over the resounding response from our neighbors and business community in support of this event.

Last year we had over 430 kids participate in the derby which included a $10 entry fee.

Because we recognize this entry fee adds up when larger families participate, we set out to find a way to reduce or waive the entry fee.

Within 1 week of requesting support our inbox was full of messages from businesses around the valley asking how they could help us reach this goal. We were able to raise enough funds to waive the derby fee, and are excited to see what impact this has on participation.

As a couple we would rather be ice fishing more than any other activity on earth. We spend countless hours on the ice throughout a season and by seasons end drill over 1000 ice holes.

We also volunteer much of our time hosting seminars, and teaching hunter education in our community. We appreciate that through the Matsu Kids Ice Fishing Derby we have an ability to marry the two interests; community service and ice fishing.

Last year with 30 days notice we received a request to host this derby. Together we began cracking the code on how to plan a large scale fundraising event. The derby was a huge

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Arts

Photo Courtesty of Heather Dun, Owner of Ambience Photography.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

New Venue for Art in 2014!

by Carmen Summerfield

> A new venue for art—the Valley

Center for Arts and Learning—will be opening at Mat-Su College in December 2014.

The 30,000 square feet, 508-seat theater, located on the campus of Mat-Su College, will be able to host a variety of events including plays, lectures, conferences, concerts, festivals, benefits, recitals, movie screenings, weddings, and more. The new theatre will have a 40’ wide stage, an orchestra pit, a costume and scene shop, several dressing rooms and a green room.

I am so excited about this new theater that I journeyed to the campus last week to check on the progress. I was very impressed!

Feb. 2014

Matthew Sale, the new Theatre Director, told me that the goal of the venue is to become an

> CONTINUES ON PAGE 28

Artists rendering of what the final product will look like.

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Feb. 2014

Community

> MATSU KIDS ICE FISHING DERBY CONTINUED success measured in both funds raised and ice fishing opportunity provided to kids. None of this success would have been possible without our community getting behind the event and volunteers coming from practically every corner of the Valley to make it happen.

Fingers crossed that during this years event we break, not only our fundraising ceiling of $11,000 set from last year but we also hope to double the amount of kids participating.

To achieve these goals we are holding an adult raffle with prize values totaling upwards of $2000 and Three Bears Alaska has graciously volunteered to sell raffle tickets on behalf of the derby at all 3 of its valley locations. Along with the free entry this year we also hope to increase participation by adding a 4th age division so that every child from 0-15yrs old can participate.

We listened to kids last year and are working diligently to have multiple activities happening on the ice during the derby, and tons of prizes available to win.

Prizes and trophies will be awarded to the 3 longest fish in each age category and each fish released alive after being measured will have 1 addition inch added to length to encourage catch and

release. Prizes will also be awarded to the best homemade fishing pole in order to alleviate the burden placed on families to purchase new gear. Many sponsors also donated Lures (Thank you HT Enterprises), Bait (Thank you Alaska Bait Company), and Line (Thank you Vicious Fishing) so children can participate with virtually no additional cost in relation to gear.

We would like to invite each of you to join us at the Matsu Kids Ice Fishing Derby Sunday February, 23rd 2014 on Finger Lake in Palmer.

Registration will open at 9:00am and remain open until 2:00pm. The Derby will take place between 9:00am 3:00pm with the awards ceremony taking place at 3:30pm.

> Please feel free to contact

us for more information or questions on Face Book @ Ehmann Outdoors or by email at ehmannoutdoors@gmail.com

“We listened to kids last year and are working diligently to have multiple activities happening on the ice during the derby, and tons of prizes available to win.�

> BACKCOUNTRY FILM FESTIVAL CONTINUED

Leg Hold Trapping: A Bygone Activity Contributed by William Zeddies

resources -- our unique communities and natural assets”. So let’s get together, get inspired, build community, and build support for a sustainable future for our region and the preservation of our very own “wildlands” for future generations!

>> Information stations from community groups such as the North American

Ticket price includes:

>> Outdoor Institute (NAOI), the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), the Mat-Su Ski Club, the MatSu Ski & Snowboard Club, and Valley Mountain Bikers & Hikers!

>> All films, including the feature “Valhalla” which you don’t want to miss!

>> Beer from Arkose Brewery and wine will be available for purchase for those 21 & over with valid I.D.

>> Presentation on avalanche safety & airbag deploy demonstration from NAOI

Please note: Floor seating (padded floor) with limited chairs – bring blankets, cushions, or pillows if so desired.

>> Food by Turkey Red >> Great door prizes! >> Mountain-themed art exhibit by local artist Matt Yoder

> Full program available online at www.envisionmatsu.org

After reading the article from the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, January 26, 2014, on www.adn. com, I was not shocked to hear that inhumane, unthoughtful people are still trapping too close to residences, trapping pets. I have pulled one of my dogs from a trap after searching for him nearly three hours. This is the account of his misery and our nightmare: The snow was deep during the winter of 2011, so deep sound echoed for miles, but the location of crying and barking we were hearing was hard to pinpoint. We heard our boy Ranger crying and yipping, so knew he was in trouble.

After trying to reach him on foot to no avail, we called friends and family to help in the search.

His voice would sound like he was near, so we desperately rode snowmobiles to the area, but found nothing. That went on for three hours. Finally, we found him caught in a wolf trap just off a small road near our home.

His front leg was pinched in metal hell above his paw. Blood still dripped from the wide wound he had opened in the struggle to get free. His mouth dripped red fluid and slobber.

Above him, in a stand of alders

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Feb. 2014

Music

The Alaska Chapter of the Percussive Arts Society

By Meggie Aube

Join the Alaska Chapter of the Percussive Arts Society as they host a fun, informative, and interactive afternoon. Several of Anchorage’s top drumset performers and educators will be sharing their unique experiences and style with fellow performers, students, and enthusiasts alike.

Willing participants will also have the opportunity to play for the clinicians to receive feedback and tips. The clinic will take place on Saturday, March 1st at 2:00 p.m. in the UAA Arts Building, Room 124.

There is a $5 admission to attend.

The talented drummers who will be leading the clinic come from a wide range of musical backgrounds and performance genres.

> The clinicians will include:

- Cameron Cartland, drummer in bands such as the John Damberg Latin Jazz Sextet, Dan Mac Band, and Pamyua - Eric Kross, who has performed with Sleeve, The Audio, Diana Z and most known as the drummer for Delmag - Lee Thompson, drummer with bands including Superfrequency, Pamyua, and the popular Hawaiian style reggae band H3 - Scott Weller, a past Air Force band member has graced the Anchorage stages with the Kevin Barnett Trio, Melissa Fischer, Voni K, and Cat Coward The Alaska Chapter of the Percussive Arts Society is a nonprofit organization focused on providing performance and educational opportunities to percussionists of all ages and experience levels across the state of Alaska. Look forward to regular events from the AKPAS including a Day of Percussion on May 3rd.

> To learn more about the Percussive Arts Society please visit www.pas.org. For more information on the clinic, contact Meggie Aube at (907) 631-8079

> Erik Cross, best known as

the drummer from Delmag

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Music

Submitted by Zac Clark > The UAA Concert Board is

proud to present Iron & Wine, Friday March 28, 2014, at 7:30 PM in the Egan Center.

With the release of The Creek Drank the Cradle in 2002, Iron & Wine joined the forefront of a small group of indiefolk musicians that would come to redefine the music scene for the next decade.

That, however, has not prevented Sam Beam – the man behind Iron & Wine – from redefining his own sound over the course of his career.

Iron & Wine has performed at many of the major festivals, including SXSW, Sasquatch, Bonnaroo, and numerous others.

Beam has performed on late night shows including Jay Leno, Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, and others.

Tickets are $25 advance/$30 door for UAA students and $35 advance/$40 door for general public Tickets become available Friday February 14 at ticketmaster.com

Student tickets are only available at the UAA Student Union Information Desk, limit 2. Must be a UAA student taking 3 credits or more at Goose Lake Campus to use student discount tickets.

Feb. 2014

Beginning with 2007’s The Shepard’s Dog, Beam introduced full band compositions, which provided room for variety and playfulness. Praising his ability to adapt and challenge himself, NPR called Beam “a songwriter versatile enough to pack huge ideas into simple arrangements and vice versa.” Rolling Stone said of Beam’s latest effort, 2013’s Ghost on Ghost,

In addition to the prestige awarded to Beam by critics, his commercial success is testament to an evergrowing fan base. On the Billboard top 200 charts, The Shepard’s Dog peaked at 24, 2011’s Kiss Each Other Clean peaked at 2, and Ghost on Ghost peaked at 26.

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Iron & Wine Returns to Anchorage

“The best tunes here are the kind of dreams that will stay on your mind long after waking.”

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Feb. 2014

All vocal ranges.

No auditions necessary.

Do you love to sing? Join the

(Auditions if under 18)

Join us on Thursdays @ 7pm @ Wasilla High School Find us on Facebook: Mat-Su Community Chorus

Contact: 745-4318

Music Mat-Su Concert Band plays suites, swing and solos in March concert > The Mat-Su Concert Band will play its March concert at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 6 at Teeland Middle School.

The program includes several musical suites, a swinging number from Glenn Miller and two separate trumpet concertos featuring Charles Carte, a band member and Teeland’s music director, as well as band member Shane Artz, performing arts director at Houston High School.

The concert has an intermission.

There will be a small admission fee at the door. Tickets are $5; seniors and students still get in free.

Tickets will also be available before the concert.

Perhaps the most revolutionary suite written for wind band, Gustav Holst’s “First Suite in E Flat for

Military Band” combines rousing melodies and fast-moving wind passages with sonorous brass interludes. The band will also play “Candide Suite” by Leonard Bernstein and “Folk Song Suite” by R. Vaughan Williams.

The band will play a Paul Murtha arrangement, “Glenn Miller in Concert”, that features a toetapping medley of five of the bestloved songs by the big bandleader and composer: “In The Mood”’, “Tuxedo Junction”, “A String of Pearls”, “Little Brown Jug” and “Pennsylvania 6-5000.” There’s room in the back for a little swingdancing if anyone is so moved.

The finale of the “Trumpet Concerto in E Flat Major” by Johann Nepomuk Hummel is one of the great virtuoso pieces for the instrument and showcases Carte’s talents. The band will also perform Antonio Vivaldi’s “Double Concerto” featuring Carte and Artz.

The band’s trumpet section is also featured in “Procession of Nobles”

by Nicholas Rimsky-Korsakov.

Just in time for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, the band will perform “Iditarod” by Robert

Mat-Su

COMMUNITY CHORUS

Buckley, a celebration of the 1,000mile odyssey that honors the serum run to Nome. Gleo Huyck, the band’s director, has a special place in his heart for the race: he’s one of three Iditarod co-founders. “Block M March” by Jerry H. Bilik rounds out the program.

UAA hosts Symphony

Our band got its start in 1984 as the Mat-Su Community Band, formed by Matanuska Music owner Hank Hartman. Other directors have included Neil Long and Phil Munger.

ANCHORAGE, AK––Experience the arts at UAA with the inspiring 18th annual Symphony of Sounds concerts in the UAA Fine Arts Building Recital Hall Saturday, Feb. 22, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 23, at 4 p.m. UAA music majors compete to be part of this program, which is considered to be one of the best showcases for young musicians in Alaska.

Huyck, the current director, is a retired music educator and private instructor. Under Huyck’s baton, the band performs a wide-ranging selection of challenging music.

The band this season numbers more than 60 amateur musicians who assemble every Monday night for rehearsals at Teeland. We are always looking for new members.

> For more information

about tickets, or to join the band, send an e-mail tomatsuconcertband@gmail. com or call Gleo Huyck at (907) 746-0628.

of Sounds

Feb. 22–23 Department of Music’s premiere annual event showcases stellar student talent

One of the most unique concert experiences of the year, the Symphony of Sounds concerts deliver an extravaganza of musical entertainment in a non-stop collage format. Every taste in music is satisfied with a wide range of musical styles that include classical, jazz, opera and musical theatre. The presentation includes a continuous variety of genres from large ensembles to the very best chamber groups and soloists selected by audition. All of the action happens in a seamless performance with the performers highlighted by special lighting effects and staging.

> CONTINUES ON PAGE 33

Senator Brings Hope, Encouragement for Youth

Senator Lisa Murkowski visited MY House and Gathering Grounds Café, spending time talking with homeless youth and asking questions.

Spending time with our youth (rather than talking policy with us) was a great investment in the most valuable resource we haveour youth-and we loved seeing the impact!

She asked what she could do to help and offered suggestions. After she left, one young lady said “She really cares about us, she wants us to do good. I didn’t think it would matter, but it does”.

Shelter for animals but not homeless youth?

By Michelle Overstreet

> CONTINUES ON PAGE 32

Feb. 2014

There are several layers to the answer. First, shelter is seen as not sustainable. Homeless youth

If we hold our community leaders to a higher standard, and prosecute thieves, then I believe that this can be avoided. It was re-made into a shelter that housed kids with a diagnosis in order to collect Medicaid funds, but the needs for staff and therapy outweighed the income potential, so it again failed.

“Why do we not have shelter for our homeless youth?” I am asked this question almost daily. And those who notice often ask why we have a shelter for abandoned animals in the Mat Su Borough, but not for youth?

Good question.

have no money to pay for shelter, so there is no income source to pay for the lights, building and staff. “The Saxon Shelter failed” I often hear at meetings. And it’s true. But it failed due to corruption and the executive director stealing money from it and then leaving the State to avoid prosecution.

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Several of our youth guided her on a tour of the facility, sharing about the impact of the resource area and job opportunities on site with the Café, Nine Star internships and Car Deets business. She listened, asked questions and validated their progress on goals and potential.

MY House and Nine Star staff and directors would like to thank Lisa and her staff for being part of our team, for being part of the solution, working on the prevention end of the homeless equation, and for her grace.

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MYHouse

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Feb. 2014

Arts

> NEW ART VENUE CONTINUED outlet for both the campus and the Mat-Su Valley art community. The twenty million dollar theater will serve several purposes—during the week it will hold classes, and on the weekends it will host performing arts-type events. As College Director Talis Colberg said, “it’s going to make this a seven-day-a-week operation.”

I like the idea that the Valley Center for Arts and Learning will provide a new stage to our art community to present new ideas and creative endeavors, and provoke new dialogue.

The Mat-Su College has been very generous to the Valley Arts Alliance by providing space for our “Green Hearts” events (www.valleyartsalliance.com/ archives) and now we are looking forward to this new arts venue for some of our future productions.

Artists rendering of what the final product will look like.

The grand opening for the theater is December 2014.

I’ll be there, and I expect the performances offered at the Valley Center for Arts and Learning will be exceptional.

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Community

health problems. They are also the leading causes of death and disability, responsible for seven out of 10 deaths each year.

Contributed by Julie Cascio

“The good news,” says Leslie Shallcross with UAF Cooperative Extension Service “is that people who know how to take care of their health conditions can live successfully with their disease.

Help Palmer Live Better with Chronic Conditions > Sessions help people reduce

pain, increase energy and be in control of their health For people with chronic health conditions, good medical care is just half of the equation.

Living Well Alaska teaches people with lifelong health conditions to do just that. Participants have less pain, more energy and fewer hospitalizations.

During the six-week session, participants receive support from trained leaders and other workshop participants, learn practical ways to manage their pain and fatigue, learn about nutrition and exercise options, understand new treatment choices and learn better ways to communicate about their conditions with doctors and family members.

Better Business Bureau reminds consumers that while athletes compete for medals, scammers compete for personal information and credit card numbers.

“The Olympics bring together the best athletes from around the world in the name of human competition,” says Tyler Andrew, CEO of BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington. “But such a large event, on the world stage, draws the attention of opportunistic people who will try to leverage the popularity for personal gain.”

BBB offers tips for supporting and enjoying the games safely from home: - Hang up on Olympic employees.

“Official” representatives will not call to ask for donations or offer special merchandise; never give out credit card information or Social

- Beware of counterfeit merchandise.

The primary source for official merchandise is sochi2014.com/en; avoid sites that offer too-good-tobe-true deals as they may simply be gathering data for identity theft purposes.

- Be cautious of bogus emails. Large phishing campaigns utilizing official names and logos are showing up in thousands of inboxes; never click on links or download attachments from unexpected emails.

- Don’t fall for fake news articles and press releases. With 100 countries represented in 15 different sports over two weeks, breaking news and updates will occur continuously; be skeptical of sensational headlines or announcements that encourage readers to visit foreign websites.

- Skip over sketchy mobile apps.

Malicious mobile applications are on the rise and a quick search returns several “Olympics” apps; only choose official applications and make sure that privacy settings are strict.

> For more information on

the American Olympic Team, visit teamusa.org

Feb. 2014

There’s a significant need for support for people with chronic diseases, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calls the most common, costly and preventable of all U.S.

“It is amazing to see the transformation that occurs after people go through the workshop,” says Marcia Watson, a volunteer leader for the program.

“People are more confident, energetic and have a new support system in place, all of which helps them lead a healthy life.”

Anchorage, Alaska – Feb. 6, 2014 – The 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia, may prove dangerous for those seeking to support their countries’ medal hopefuls.

Security numbers to unsolicited callers.

The classes, offered weekly at the Mat Su Senior Services (Palmer Senior Center) start March 11 and go through April 15, are for anyone with a chronic disease. Chronic diseases are lifelong health conditions and include diabetes, arthritis, HIV/AIDS, high blood pressure, depression, heart disease, chronic pain, anxiety, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia and others.

The Living Well workshops are a wonderful complement to medical care, equipping people to live well outside the doctor’s office so they can make the most of their treatment and live the lives they want.”

Phishing Is The Newest Olympic Event

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Living Well Workshops

makeasceneak@mac.com

SENIORS

Feb. 2014

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

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

Palmer Senior Citizens Center, Inc.

The priApry 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 Aprket 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, Inc. Mid-Valley Seniors has 3 senior housing units-18 apartments and serves a congregate meal Mon-Fri at 12:00pm. Home delivered meals served daily fresh Mon-Fri, weekend meals are frozen.

Transportation to Adult Day Services is available Mon-Fri 8:00am-3:00pm Come up to the Center for activities or lunch.

Lisa Byrd, 892-6114 mvscadmin@mtaonline.net

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

MYHouse Homeless Teen Shelter in the Matsu

is a non-profit that exists to provide services to unaccompanied youth, ages 14-24, in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. The services we provide include, but are not limited to, hot meals, shelf stable foods, gas cards, transport to shelter, clothing, tents, sleeping bags, laundry, shower, hygiene products, street outreach, access to medical, dental and mental health care, vocational services and employment opportunities, educational advocacy and life coaching. Our youth center, The Gathering Place, is located at 300 N. Willow St in central Wasilla. Also on campus is the MYHouse Café, Gathering Grounds, which exists to provide employment for homeless and at risk youth, as well as our partnering agencies and businesses, Nine Star, Mat-Su Public Health Center and Car Deets (an automotive detailing business which hires homeless youth). To learn more, visit our website at myhousematsu.org or call 373-4357.

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 Aprtial 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 Donated by local Alaskans, Big Lake Community Clothing Closet provides quality clothing to people in need, at no charge.

Clothing and footwear for people of all ages is available. Also, assorted household items as they are available.

This unique program helps people locally.

Donations are accepted, to further the program.

Any money donated helps pay the rent for our location at 2955 Big Lake Rd., Big Lake, Alaska.

Financial donation could also be mailed to the Big Lake Community Clothing Closet, PO Box 527069, Big Lake, AK 99652.

Hours of operation: Tues. 9 am – 1 pm, Weds. 11 am – 3 pm All donations of quality clothing in good condition can be donated at the above address during regular hours of operation.

We are a non-profit organization, all donations are tax deductable. Tax ID available to donors.

Check us out on Facebook.

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

The ARTs Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums, under the leadership of Pipe Major Aja Stewart, are now seeking Pipers and Drummers who would like to play with our Band. We want to increase the size of our awardwinning Drumline, so if you are already familiar with drumming (snare, tenor, or bass,) or if you want to learn to play, we would like to hear from you! 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.

You don’t have to be Scottish, or even have any musical background, to start. We firmly believe that you’re never too old to learn; we have active students and performing members of the Band ranging in age from 7 to 70!

We are a grade IV competing, family-oriented Pipe Band, established in 2005, and we are very active in supporting our community with music at parades, concerts, and special events. 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.

Phenomenal!

Those interested in lessons, or in playing pipes or drums with Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums, please contact the Band by email at craigag@mtaonline. net or by telephone at (907) 688-4196. The band’s website can be found at http://www.alaskaceltic. org , plus, we’re on Facebook! “The Pipes, the Pipes are calling...”

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. Aprch 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 Octember through Nov. 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 Nov.gstensgericht@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 Octember through Nov.. 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 Nov. through Nov. and are for youth 6-11 and 1217. The VPA Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony is held each Nov. 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,

ANIMALS AK Cat Kitty Rescue

is a local small kitty rescue. We specialize in litters of kittens, and our facility is designed that way.

We will take in litters from the community, and will assist in getting their mom cat spayed. ALL of our kittens are up to date on vaccines, and have been spayed/ or neutered prior to adoptions. We are a 501c3, so any donations are tax deductible. If you are looking to adopt, or need help placing a litter, please call us! We are currently looking for help with computer type tasks, updating website, or updating our adoptions and monthly expences.

AK CAT 907-232-4444 www.akcat.org

Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue (ADPR)

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

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 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 Nov. 25th. We always have new speakers and a great time. See you there!

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

Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS)

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

government agencies to render assistance.

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

Valley Residential Services (VRS)

OUTDOORS

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

Alaska Attachment & Bonding Associates (AABA) 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, selfadvocacy, 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 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-supplied food pantry, accepting cash and food donations from individuals and groups and supply clients with food for nutritionally-balanced 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 Nov. be accessed monthly by any client who meets the governmentestablished-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

North America Outdoor Institute

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 nonprofit 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

The Center is operated by dedicated volunteers helping to feed the birds, administer medical treatment, clean cages, and do whatever it takes to help these wild birds survive and gain strength for their eventual release or participation in our education program. Volunteers also plan and conduct fundraising events to keep the birds fed and warm. It’s all “for the birds.”

AWBRC has recently signed a long-term lease for 25 acres in the City of Houston, and is looking forward to the beginning phases of a permanent facility there. To volunteer, donate or for further information, contact AWBRC at 907.892.1670, 907.230.7049, or visit www.akwildbirdrehab.org.

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, yearround community-based organization; a nonregulatory 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 Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center (AWBRC) The Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center (AWBRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that offers bird rescue and rehabilitation services for the growing Mat-Su Valley community. Our mission is to rescue and care for injured, orphaned and sick wild birds with the goal of returning healthy birds back to their native habitats, and to educate the public about Alaska’s wild birds through live wild bird programs.

Feb. 2014

To have your non-profit organization included in this free community resource list, please email your info to: makeasceneak@mac.com

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

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

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

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art councils, and music and art groups to create more venues for the arts, and to help promote art related events. www.valleyartsalliance.com

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Feb. 2014

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

2/15/14

Community Feeling truly blessed

I won my original appeal in 2011 and have been able to expose the government prosecutors who tried mightily to destroy me (aided by their friends in the liberal press) with many false accusations and conning a jury over small issues.

With 2013 having come to a close, I've reflected back on the year and realize how blessed I really am.

Even though I didn't win a seat on the council, I still had a good showing at the polls. To receive over three hundred votes was an incredible result and lets me know there's still significant support in my community. So I've had reasons to hold my head high.

By Vic Kohring

Some may look at my recent experiences and wonder how I can be so positive. I lost a close family member to Alzheimer's Disease after a five year struggle.

The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against me following the death of my strongest advocate on the panel, Judge Betty Fletcher, who fought for dismissal of the government's bogus conviction. I did not win my city council race after attempting to make a political comeback.

Despite all of this, I feel good about the year. Most important is that my father is no longer suffering and is with his Lord and Savior. That fact gives my family and I immense comfort. Regarding my legal case, notwithstanding the setback, I'm still pleased with the overall result.

Martin Luther King Jr. once said that the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands during times of hardship.

Yes, there have been some who abandoned me during my recent challenges. "Sunshine Patriots" are your friends when times are good, but abandon you when the going gets tough. They abound in this world. But I'm pleased to say that most have stayed with me during both good times and bad.

Philippians 4:13 is one of my favorite verses that I rely on during difficult times: "I can do everything in Him who gives me strength."

May God bless you with good health and prosperity in the new year.

HOMELESS YOUTH CONTINUED The local Housing and Homeless Coalition is opposed to emergency shelter, indicating that it is not sustainable. But there are shelters all around the Country, supported by different means, so it’s not an impossibility.

We are currently having success with a for-profit enterprise that helps fund the services that we provide,. We are also not opposed to doing fundraisers, which some non-profits dislike. We believe that they can also engage community and help raise awareness, as well as helping youth be recognized for excellence, which many have never experienced.

It’s a positive all around as far as we are concerned, and will help sustain a shelter.

I've tried my best to face life's challenges with strength and determination while maintaining my faith, so that I may be an example and encouragement to others. Being positive helps me endure as does reminding myself that spring always follows winter, daylight after the darkness of night.

I am surrounded by many friends whom I rely on for support.

> SHELTER FOR

The Borough supports the animal shelter financially. Wouldn’t it be great if they invested that same amount of money in our youth?

Vic Kohring is a resident of Wasilla

Imagine the possibilities when we have more young people working, contributing, leading others who may be struggling, achieving goals and dreams and even VOTING.

Music

> SYMPHONY OF SOUNDS CONTINUED At the end of each performance, the audience is invited to participate in a silent auction featuring artwork, entertainment, travel, food, as well as a variety of goods and services.

All ticket and net proceeds from the concerts go toward the Music Endowment to support the next generation of music leaders and teachers.

Parking is free and convenient.

Tickets for the Symphony of Sounds are available from UAAtix.com, CenterTix.net or the Box Office in the UAA Fine Arts Building (786-4849).

Tickets are $20 for balcony seating, $17 for lower-level seating.

> For more information, please

907-745-8487

In the Vagabond Blues Building in Palmer Mon. - Fri. 10:30am to 6pm Saturday by Appointment

contact Mark at 786-1508

KAREN’S

IDEAL NUTRITION

SINCE 1994

30 Years Experience | Honest & Informative | No Greed Specializing in Essential Oils, WEIGHT LOSS, and Much More!

Adrenal Fatique - Nerve Pain - Allergies - Diabetes - Depression Anxiety - Hormonal Imbalances - Blood Pressure - Anti-Aging

34

We are living in an age when the right to think one’s own thoughts and arrive at one’s own conclusions is threatened on a daily basis by a deluge of rhetoric aimed at reaching a consensus.

Feb. 2014

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

> THE 21ST CENTURY CONTINUED

Yet few if any stop to consider what, in reality, a consensus is. Abba Eban, Israeli Foreign Minister during the Six Day War, stated it best of any I have heard, “A consensus means that everyone agrees to say collectively what no one believes individually” And all too often, it is used as a reason to avoid dangerous or distasteful action.

This is an age in which the urge to right injustices of decades past elicits a powerful incentive to act, despite the fact that most of the people now living had nothing to do with injustices of decades past.

It behooves those who advocate such action to heed Nietzsche’s admonition that “He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster.”

The effort to redress injustices is not well served by penalizing those living today who had no hand in those injustices. Equality of opportunity is not the same as forcibly confiscating property of citizens under outworn concepts of wealth re-distribution. It merely

becomes its own form of social injustice, far too often perpetrated on an unsuspecting public lulled by the cult of “agenda speak”.

One thing is certain. America will not elect a messiah who will go to Washington, D.C. and lead us painlessly from Egypt to the Promised Land. That was a 20th Century political fantasy.

And it should be noted that even the Israelites had travails and tribulations before crossing the Jordan.

Stopping the slide of America into the abyss of mediocrity and eventual slavery will only occur when we, individually, take the revolutionary and (from the government’s point of view) insurrectionist step of refusing to be lied to and demanding the truth about issues. And make no mistake about it; it will be a painful individual step.

Yet for the sake of our children and grandchildren it must be done.

America can no longer afford to slumber as our liberties are taken away from us by political slight-ofhand. For as Edmond Burke once said in an address to the British Parliament, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

Community

SYMBOL’S FLOORING

and the Valley. Lolly worked with several home builders, commercial contractors and individuals who looked forward to working with Lolly’s personable and caring personality. Being a single mother of 2 boys the job was too time consuming and she knew she needed to find another means to support her family.

In 2012 Lolly founded a construction remodel company called, The Business Jeannie. The clients she works with are all very pleased as each job is done with care and the client has a much less stressful experience! However Lolly was feeling frustrated as she watched client after client purchase flooring from various flooring stores and Lolly knew that they were paying an outrageous mark-up. That’s when Lolly decided to open Symbol’s Flooring!

Moving from Wisconsin to Alaska at the age of 5, Lolly Symbol, owner of Symbol’s Flooring, considers herself to be a “Lifelong” Alaskan!

She was raised in Anchorage Alaska until the age of 12 when her family moved out to BigLake, Alaska, where over 20 years later, she still resides with her 2 sons and her mother.

Previously Lolly was Commercial Accounts Manager at a local flooring store, with show rooms in both Anchorage

Now clients big, or small can purchase flooring materials at a fair price. Whether you’re remodeling your bathroom floor, replacing the laminate throughout your entire house, build multiple homes a year or do a little remodel work on the side, Lolly has made it possible for you to have the floor you want at an affordable price!

> SYMBOL’S FLOORING is

located at 9871 W. Margin Wy #102, Wasilla, Ak. 99623 MILE 51.1 W Parks Hwy. 907.354.5797

How to Write a Business Plan 2/18/2014 9:00am - 1pm Mat-Su SBDC 201 N LUCILLE ST STE 2A, Wasilla, AK 99654-7010, $50 Poetry Parley Wed, Feb 19 7 pm - 9 pm Hugi Lewis Studio 1008 West Northern Lights Free Sandra Kleven 907-764-1945 www.heartworksak.net/poetryparley Starting a Business 2/19/2014 1:00 - 3:00 pm Mat-Su SBDC 201 N LUCILLE ST STE 2A, Wasilla, AK Free February Contra Dances Thurs, Feb 20, and Thurs, Feb 27 7pm-9pm Palmer Salvation Army Community Center 209 W Evergreen St, $6 Winter Conservation Series II Thurs. Feb 20;, 27; March 6, 13, 20 7pm-8:30 pm Feb 20-Backyard Plantings; 27-How to Construct Framing Projects; Mar 6-Vegetable Production the Organic Way; 13-Water well Protection/Testing; 20-Greenhouse Fundamentals Mat-Su College FREE Space is limited; MUST pre-register: distmgr@wasillaswcd.org Wasilla & Palmer Soil & Water Conservation Districts 907-357-4511 Oscar Nominated Short Animation and Live Action Sat, Feb 22nd 6pm - 10pm Sheldon Community Arts Hangar Talkeetna $7 DAC Member / $9 General / $5 ages 12 and under www.denaliartscouncil.org Hangar Door Cinema 907-733-7929 www.denaliartscouncil.org Butte Community Garage Sale Saturday, February 22nd 10:00am - 4:00pm Butte Elementary School 4006 S. Butte Road, Palmer AK 99645 Free Butte Elementary School PTA 907-861-5200 http://www.matsuk12.us/domain/4139 Film Presentation - “Reel Arabs” Sun, February 23, 6pm Cyrano’s Theatre 410 D Street, Anchorage, AK 99501 FREE @ Cyrano’s Theatre

Jihad Jones and the Kalashnikov Babes Fri, February 14 - Sun March 2 Thurs, Fri & Sat - 7pm : Sun 3pm Cyrano’s Theatre Company 413 D Street 18-20 www.CenterTix. net Cyrano’s Theatre Company 907-274-2599 www.cyranos.org Winter Family Fun Day Reflections Lake, Palmer Hay Flats – Take the Knik River Access Road off the Glenn Highway at Mile 30.5 Saturday, February 15 from 10:30AM – 3PM FREE Alaskans For Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge, 4900 E Palmer-Wasilla Hwy, Ste. 106, Wasilla AK 99654; 907-357-8711 and info@palmerhayflats.org Chakras 101: Give your Life a Tune-Up Sat, February 22, 2014; 2pm-6pm Midnight Sun Yoga Center Palmer, AK; $50 www.midnightsunyoga.com Midnight Sun Yoga Center Comedian Daniel Tosh Saturday, March 8, 2014 7 pm, Atwood Concert Hall 621 W. Sixth Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501 $55, www.centertix.net Live Nation Entertainment 907-263-2787 www.LiveNation.com Jihad Jones and the Kalashnikov Babes Fri, February 14 - Sun March 2 Thurs, Fri & Sat - 7pm : Sun 3pm Cyrano’s Theatre Company 413 D Street 18-20 www.CenterTix.net Cyrano’s Theatre Company 907-274-2599 www.cyranos.org Drum Master of Anchorage Drumset Clinic Sat, March 1 | 2pm- 3:30pm UAA Arts Building, Room 124 3211 Providence Dr. Anchorage, AK $5 at door The Alaska Chapter of the Percussive Arts Society | 907-631-8079 Gardening Classes March 7 - April 30 Various offerings Good Earth Garden School Various locations Various prices nominal fee or free Good Earth Garden School 907-745-0758 www.goodearthgardenschool.com March for Babies Walk Sat, March 22 9AM - 12PM AT&T Sport Center 1507 N Double B Street, Palmer Free March of Dimes 907-276-4111 marchforbabies.org Colony Drama presents Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein Colony High Theatre @ 9550 Colony Schools Drive Fridays and Saturdays Nov 8, 9 & 15, 16 @ 7:00PM $7 students/seniors, military; $10 adult ($40 max per family) Colony Drama Brian Mead: brian.mead@

matsuk12.us 10th Annual Christmas Bazaar Trinity Lutheran Church Mile 2.2 Palmer-Wasilla Highway Saturday, December 7th, 2013, 10 am to 4 pm Handcrafted items and food items for sale.

Trinity Lutheran Church with proceeds being donated to charity. 745-0726 Veterans Seminar: VA Benefits Do you qualify?

889 N. Elkhorn Drive Wasilla, AK 99654 in Dining area Friday, Octember 20th, 2:00-3pm This seminar is free to the community.

Primrose Retirement Communities Allisha or MaLane at 907-373-5500 MatSu Democrats Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup Day Trunk Road, first mile beginning at the light, Palmer-Wasilla Hwy Saturday, Octember 28, 10am Free! Except for your time!

MatSu Democrats Gwen Heynen, Chair, 745-7949 Anchorage Symphony Opening Night - Fantastique!

Sat, Steptember 28, 2013, 8pm 621 W 6th Ave $20-42, www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org Palmer Historical Society Monthly Membership Meeting On Octember 18th, 2013, the Palmer Historical Society’s guest speakers are Lorie Kirker and Lynette Lehn, owners of the “ Alaskana Book Store” in Palmer.

Mat Su Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast Saturday, October 12, 2013 8 am to 10 AM Mat-Su Family Restaurant $10.00 per individual - responsible for own breakfast Just purchase at the door Edna DeVries and those concerned about our country 907-745-3388 RECURRING Palmer Public Library’s Calendar of Events for November/December Every Tuesday at 10am: Baby Lap Sit Every Tuesday at 11am: 2 year old Story Time Every Thursday at 11am: 3-5 year old story time Mat-Su Youth Orchestra Rehearsals Every Thursday 6pm-7pm Shaw Elementary School 3750 E. Paradise Lane Wasilla, AK $25 to register Open to intermediate level string players. Kai West 907-373-3422 Mat-Su Toastmasters 889 N. Elkhorn Drive Wasilla, AK 99654 Located upstairs in the Pub Every Tuesday from 7:30am to 8:30am Mat-Su Toastmasters 907.841.9818 or 907.355.3039 Free Community Concerts Palmer Salvation Army Every Sat Night, 8:30 pm $5 suggested donation StrongWomen - Palmer Mon - Wed - Fri, 11am - 12 pm Mat-Su Cooperative Extension Service 809 S Chugach St.., Ste #2, Palmer, $5 for a two month session Julie Cascio 907-745-3360 http://www.uaf.edu/ces/districts/matsu/ hhfd/strongwomen/

Palmer Public Library’s Events Every Tues at 10am: Baby Lap Sit Every Tues at 11am: 2 year old Story Time Every Wed at 2pm: Open Room for Preschoolers Every Thurs at 10:30am: 3-5 year old Story Time Fri, February 8th: 7pm. Foreign Film, Hospitalite (see library website www. cityofpalmer/library for synopsis) Mon, February 18th: 7-8pm. Friends of the Palmer Library Meeting Sewing Circle Meets the first and third Wed of the month 1-3pm, Free Mat-Su Senior Services 1132 S. Chugach St. Palmer 745-5454 mat-suseniorservices.com Caregivers Connection Last Mon of each month 1-3pm Free Mat-Su Senior Services 1132 S. Chugach St. Palmer, AK 99645 745-5454 mat-suseniorservices.com sueann.smithatmat-suseniorservices. com 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 Thurss @ 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 pm Teeland Middle School.

For more info, contact Gleo Huyck at 746-0628 Learn to Skate 60 minute class for ages 3- Teens Curtis D Menard Memorial Center Class schedule and registration forms are available online: www.cityofwasilla.com Wasilla Strong Women Strength Training Mon * Wed * Fri 10-11 am * Year Round Program * Call Sharon 376-4434 Tues * Thurs 4:00 pm. Call Peggy 7156338 Lower Level of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 501 E. Bogard Rd. Improve balance, strength, stamina and fight osteoporosis. $5.00 per 8 week session.

Women, Wine & Wed Third Wed every month Presented by Lakeshore Studio East Lake Mall, Big Lake 6:30pm $25 RSVP 230-0935 Free Hearing Screening provided by MatSu 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

www.palmermuseum.org

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

Mat-Su Central School Enrolling K-12 Homeschool Support & Distance Delivery Education www.MatSuCentral.org Wasilla 352-7450 Mat-Su College Apply for scholarships now New dance and music classes available spring semester Current employment opportunities Wasilla www.MatSu.Alaska.edu

Discussion Junction Family Book Club First Tues of each month Wasilla Meta-Rose Library Reading Rendezvous Last Sat 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…

Sun Blues Open Mic Jam 9pm Tues Dart Night 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 Thurs at 11:00am Sophia’s Cafe Neo, Palmer 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: 3579100 BABY STEPS Walking Program for New & Expectant Moms & Dads Mon & Wed 8AM-Noon Menard Memorial Sports Center 357-9100 Business Networking International Every Tues 9am Menard Memorial Sports Center 357-9100 Wasilla Bible Church Sun- 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

Museum of Alaska Transportation Open Everyday10am-5pm 3800 W Museum Drive, Wasilla 376-1211

Wasilla Shotokan Karate Club Tuesday and Thursday 6:30 to 8:00 pm Wasilla Alaska Club Instructor Dr. Jeffrey L. Sponsler Age 7 and up.

Fee is $10 per month for members $15 for non-members.

907 376 7733 for more information Free Community Concerts Palmer Salvation Army Every Sat Night, 8:30 pm $5 suggested donation

www.MakeASceneAK.com

Will H. Johnson - Acoustic guitar & vocals Tue Feb 11, Wed Feb 12, Tue Feb 25, Wed Feb 26 6:30-10pm Locals Pub & Pizzeria 3100 E. Parks Highway, Wasilla AK Free 907-357-3100 www.willhjohnson.com

907-274-2599 cyranos.org

Calendar Submissions

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

36

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Feb. 2014

Educational

THE CORNER LINK THE HISTORY OF THE WEDDING INVITE

Contributed by Donna Turner > Did you know that years

ago written invitations were the luxury of only the rich or royalty?

One of the first considerations for a couple planning a wedding is the type of invitations they will use to inform their guests about the momentous occasion. However, how and when did this formal wedding invitation process start?

The first type of wedding invitation was actually announced by word of mouth, before the days of printing and the Internet. Before the invention of the printing press, town criers would stand in the village square and announce weddings to everyone within earshot.

A town crier got paid to stand on the corner and announce the daily news, much like news reporters on television today. As a result of the town crier’s efforts, everyone within earshot was invited to share the wedding with the bride and groom - imagine trying to get a head count for that event? Later, written invitations were the luxury of only the rich or royalty.

The first written invitations were made during the Middle Ages of Europe, by religious monks. Because of the Plague, literacy rates were very low and only nobility and religious

figures had the opportunity to learn to read and write. Wealthy nobility seeking to marry off their sons and daughters would pay incredible sums of money to monks to hand-craft wedding invitations to announce the special day. Monks were learned in the art of calligraphy and royalty appreciated this decorative skill.

When the invitations were complete, they were delivered to the potential guests by a courier on horseback.

During the Middle Ages, the coat of arms was also developed in response to the need to identify a person and this personal crest was often affixed to important papers, such as wedding invitations created by monks.

By the 1600’s, metal plate engraving was invented, which is the same process used today. As a result of metal plate engraving, fancy engraved invitations on paper became popular.

After the process was completed, a sheet of paper would be placed on top of the engraving so that it would not smudge - this is the same tissue you see left inside invitations today.

During the 18th century, wedding invitations were also published in newspapers. In Wales, bidding letters were dispatched to let people know about upcoming weddings.

Furthermore, the Indians actually used smoke signals coupled with a birch bark inscription to announce future nuptials.

As literacy rates grew through during the Age of Enlightenment. More people were able to read and write.

As a result, an increasing number of “regular” people began to send

paper invitations to invite people to their wedding celebrations. Fine stationery was created in the 19th century because of the development of machines, which made sending paper wedding invitations even more popular. The postal system was also created and used for the delivery such invitations, along with personal couriers for those folks that felt the new mail system was unreliable. These methods of delivery encouraged the use of the double envelope to protect the invitation from being soiled or damaged en route. Although delivery methods today are cleaner and more reliable, the use of a double envelope has remained a tradition for formal wedding invitations.

Today there are numerous ways to invite people to a wedding. Invitations can be engraved or use imitation engraving known as thermography, which is less expensive. Informal invitations can be done with offset printing, home computer printing or handwritten in calligraphy and beautiful penmanship. Personalized invitations are even created on blocks of chocolate, thick paper stock or other wedding-friendly media. Some people even send their wedding invitations over the Internet! (This is not proper etiquette at all) Despite the many developments to wedding invitations over the centuries, the most popular and socially acceptable manner to invite guests is by using classic paper invitations that are carefully chosen the reflect the spirit of the event. The beauty of a traditional wedding invitation remains unsurpassed.

Remember, a wedding invitation is a letter asking the recipient to attend a wedding. It is typically written in formal, third-person language and mailed five to eight weeks before the wedding date. The advanced notice for the impeding event is not only for the guests to plan on attending.

A response to whether or not you are attending is proper etiquette.

A response to the Host as to whether or not you will be attending is used for numerous issues such as seating arrangements, venue size and the preparation of food. I have used a formula that works almost perfectly every time when I plan a wedding. I explain that if you deliver 200 invites, that accounts for 400 people since most are couples or have dates. Not everyone you invite will come to your event for whatever reason. Divide 400 by two and add ten percent. Plan our wedding for 220. The attendance will usual be with ten people. It is very frustrating to guess the attendance count when planning.

Couples typically spent months if not years to plan, prepare and pay for their wedding. I assure my brides and grooms that the next time they receive an invitation (to whatever event) they will respond as to whether they will attend.

Finally, the proper etiquette for the guest is to bring a gift to the bride and groom if the guest accepts the invitation to attend the wedding. No matter how big or how small, the gift is good manners for the guest.

“During the 18th century, wedding invitations were also published in newspapers.

In Wales, bidding letters were dispatched to let people know about upcoming weddings.”

roadhouse bakery ● restaurant ● rooms

Private Rooms, Hostel-Style Bunks, Private Cabins & the Museum Apartment

The Crystal Mandala

775-4257 Eastlake Mall, Big Lake

Coin Laundry ● WiFi ● Showers Big Breakfasts & World Famous Cinnamon Rolls

Live Acoustic Music Every Second Saturday, 5-7pm

Ask about our classes on Saturday from 2-5pm

On Main Street ● 733-1351

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

Literature

Margaret and Midnight, the Alaska Malamute Written by Valerie J. Boever It was never my intention to be a published author, though as a English Literary Major graduating from the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, it was the dream, as with all who have literary interests, to write a great book.

I began Margaret and Midnight, the Alaska Malamute, while recuperating from an injury. It was a means to carry me through the boredom of bed rest. It was later that the idea of publishing came to me.

The dreams of that simple notion were made possible by the sincere and helpful, Even Swensen, of Publication Consultants, Anchorage, Alaska.

Without his help, this would be a manuscript tucked into a desk drawer.

Evan and his staff assisted me, mentored me, and encouraged me throughout the writing and publishing process. Evan truly is responsible for making my dream come true.

Custom Tie Dye - Custom Sewing - Custom Dog Coats

907-892 5562

Eastlake Mall, Big Lake

Tues-Sat 11am to 7pm Sunday 11am to 5pm

12 Years

in Business!

Silver Hennessy, my extremely talented illustrator, never failed to interpret what was within my mind. She was also of so much value. I will never be able to express enough gratitude for all her efforts.

I have met wonderful people along my journey and appreciate meeting and talking with each one. Those who stop to visit at book signing events have left their impressions upon my spirit.

To learn more or to purchace Margaret and Midnight, contact lmjb_boever@Yahoo.com

> Also check out:

Amazon.com PublicationConsultants.com Fireside Books in Palmer

> Illustrations for Margaret and Midnight are by Silver Hennessy

38

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Feb. 2014

Music Black Violin tears up the strings!

Contributed by Michelle Scannell After their 2009 sold-out Atwood show, Black Violin artists Kev Marcus, Will B and DJ TK return with their ultimate synergy somewhere between classical and hip-hop music.

As graduates of Dillard Performing Arts High School, Black Violin chooses strings over streets using funk driven sounds and a positive message to give young people the same exposure to the arts and, therefore, the same opportunities they did.

> Come check them out!

March 21st Atwood Concert Hall, ACPA

View the online edition of The People’s Paper

Positive & Encouraging Community News

No Staff of Writers + Community Submissions = The People’s Paper

39

Community Hatcher Pass Paradise or Peril?

By Debra McGhan

In 1999 a Wasilla man took his snowmobile to HP to ride the day after Christmas. The unstable snow conditions caught him by surprise and he was buried in an avalanche.

He was not wearing an avalanche transceiver and none of the people recreating in the area were prepared to respond to the incident. As a result, he did not make it out alive.

off a cliff and landed so hard he broke his back and is now paralyzed from the waist down.

While these incidents highlight the tragedies, thousands of people have enjoyed lots of fun, safe recreation days in HP. And so can you.

The NAOI course is a one-day clinic that features riding and avalanche awareness skills training for beginner and intermediate riders.

This interactive course exposes students to safe riding techniques along with practical avalanche rescue skills, snowpack evaluation, terrain selection, human factors, risk mitigation, and companion rescue.

Once you feel confident with your skills, you can get current, relevant information on snow and weather conditions by visiting the Alaska Avalanche Information Center at www.alaskasnow.org. Here you’ll find an entire section dedicated to Hatcher Pass along with information for areas all around Alaska that will

HP features a wide variety of terrain for all skill levels, a majority of this recreation paradise is subject to avalanches.

If you found this article useful, you can learn more at www.urocksafety.com

Feb. 2014

In 2009 two teenage brothers were riding their snowboards in the spring sunshine in HP when the weather suddenly turned stormy and they lost their way. Dressed in minimal gear, one of the brothers became a victim to hypothermia and lost his life.

In the spring of 2012 a young man was riding his snowmobile in the pass with a group of friends who were filming his antics when he launched

The Alaska Avalanche School is offering a three-module course. Each module is a full-day of training and the program is progressive. If you complete all three modules within two seasons, you will earn a level 1 avalanche certificate of completion recognized by the American Avalanche Association. To learn more or register, visit them online at alaskaavalanche.com or call 907345-0878.

Take the time to get educated. The North America Outdoor Institute and the Alaska Avalanche School are offering training programs in HP this month for snowmobilers that can help you enjoy a safe, incredible experience.

help you make fact-based decisions while recreating in avalanche terrain.

Here you can also link to training opportunities and other resources.

It’s important to point out that while

In 2006 another young man went snowboarding with two friends in HP and was also caught in a massive avalanche. Buried under more than 20 feet of snow, it took more than two months to finally recover his body.

For more information or to register call 376-2898 or visit them online at www. besnowsmart.org

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Situated in the southeast corner of the Talkeetna Mountains east of Wasilla and north of Palmer you’ll find Hatcher Pass (HP,) one of the Mat-Su Valley’s most incredible recreation treasures. This historic gold mine provides a backyard paradise consisting of hundreds of acres of public land and a mecca for those that enjoy skiing, sledding, hiking and snowmobile riding.

Unfortunately HP has also been the scene of numerous crippling and fatal recreation incidents over the years.

WRITE ON. >> You can be a published writer! <<

To submit your writing: go to www.makeasceneAK.com

WRITE ON. or email us at makeasceneAK@mac.com

>> You can be a published writer! <<

To submit your writing: submit your stuff online go to www.makeasceneAK.com or email us at makeasceneAK@mac.com