Make A Scene July 2013

July 2013

FREE!

www.MakeASceneAK.com

Locally Owned & Operated in the Mat-Su Valley, Alaska

> Free With Admission: Alaska State Fair 2013 Page 2

IN THIS ISSUE:

> Alaska Wildbird Rehabilitation Page 23

A PLACE TO LAY THEIR HEADS: Local Boy ‘Cuppycake Sam’ Allred Gives Back

> Alaska Women’s Right to Vote Page 4

> The Warriors’ Notebook Page 12

On Sale June 1 to Aug 5

Page 16

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July 2013

F A I R ISR DMIS FAA ION

WITH

WITH

July 24, 2013 ... 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Join with your neighbors at the Palmer Depot for food, fun and entertainment in this annual celebration of everything Palmer!

August 24, 2013, 11 a.m.

Round trip tickets on Era Alaska to theme winner!

“Livin’ It Up” fun for the whole family!

See pirates, comedians, animals, dancers, beauty queens, seniors and MUCH more!

In downtown Palmer, starts at 11 a.m.

Join the fun and pick up parade entry forms at Palmer City Hall, on the City website at cityofpalmer.org, the Alaska State Fair, the Palmer Visitors Center or the Chamber of Commerce.

DEADLINE: Entries must be received on or before on August 16 at 5 p.m. City Hall is the drop-off point.

FINANCIAL DONORS: Thank you, BP, Era Alaska, Alaska State Fair, City of Palmer

City of Palmer

231 W. Evergreen Avenue, Palmer, Alaska 99645 Go to www.cityofpalmer.org for more information

ADMISSION

> Young Dubliners

FREE with Fair admission Saturday, August 31 5pm & 8pm Heineken Stage at the Woodlot.

These Celtic rockers get fans on their feet with a fusion of traditional Irish music and modern rock for a unique, high-energy sound.

> John McEuen of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

FREE with Fair admission Saturday, August 24 4:30pm Sluicebox Saturday, August 24 8:00pm Alyeska Pipeline Colony Stage Sunday, August 25 3:30pm Sluicebox Sunday, August 25 7:00 pm Kendall Toyota of Anchorage Borealis Theatre Monday, August 26 8:30pm Sluicebox Award-winning multi-instrumentalist, John McEuen, is a founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. He is the instigator of Will the Circle be Unbroken, called “the most important record to come out of Nashville.” *Also opening for Love and Theft on Monday, August 26 @ 7pm in the Kendall Toyota of Anchorage Borealis Theatre. $30 General Admission. Buy Tix: alaskastatefair.org

> CONTINUES ON PAGE 18

By Josh Fryfogle My father always tells me that I was listening to Pure Prairie League when I was in the womb. He’s proud of this, that the band’s iconic album ‘Bustin’ Out’ is etched into my subconscious.

I know every nuance of that record, since the vinyl spun on my dad’s turntable perpetually when I was young. There are only a few albums that I have this type of relationship with, but this is definitely one of them.

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>> Pure Prairie League To Play Fair… FREE WITH ADMISSION!

When I first heard that Pure Prairie League would perform at the Alaska State Fair this year, I was prepared to pay a hefty ticket price for the chance to see this seminal group – a band that has influenced countless rock and country acts, even today.

They were a true crossover group, before the term crossover was commonplace. Their most recognized song, ‘Amie’, has received airplay and on both country and rock radio for decades.

Who doesn’t know these lyrics? Can you imagine the sing-along that will happen when Pure Prarie League performs this super hit? I can’t wait to add my voice to that crowd; But wait! There’s more!

> Pure Prairie League will perform twice!

And what’s more than that, both shows are FREE with Fair Admission!!

However, not nearly as excited as local musician Lulu Small must be! She’s opening the shows for Pure Prairie League!

And it’s not the first time, either. Lulu first shared the stage with Pure Prairie League in the mid-1980’s, playing in Kenai, Fairbanks and Anchorage. What a treat it will be to share that moment with Alaska’s own Lulu Small.

> This FREE concert will start at 1 pm. The second

FREE show will be at the Sluice Box, at 5pm, Sunday, September 1.

July 2013

I hope you will all come out on Saturday, August 31, to the Borealis Stage at the Alaska State Fair.

Now, you can probably tell that I feel particularly passionate about this event. I don’t remember a time in my life where I didn’t know the words to ‘Bustin’ Out’ by heart. It’s true, I’m personally very, very excited to be at this show...

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‘Amie, what you wanna do?

I think I could stay with you For a while, maybe longer if I do…’

Alaska Women’s Right to Vote

By Carmen Summerfield

How did you celebrate the 4th of July?

2013 is a Centennial Year in Alaskan history. One hundred years ago Alaska’s women won the right to vote, becoming one of only ten states granting women’s suffrage at that time.

In commemoration of this monumental event, the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry in Wasilla (MATI) assembled items and clothing from the 1913 period and, with several volunteers, re-enacted a scene of women suffragettes as part of the 4th of July parade in Wasilla.

How did Women Gain the Right to Vote in Alaska?

In 1912 the U.S. House of Representatives was debating details of the law that would grant Alaska its first legislature. Victor Berger, a Congressman from Milwaukee, insisted that the Alaska Legislature ought to be allowed to give women the right to vote.

“The time has gone by when all women looked after the kitchen and the dining room. Now they go into offices, school rooms and factories, where they do a

man’s work, and they should have the same economic and political rights as men. . .”

For decades, women’s groups in the United States had fought for the right to vote, making the most headway in the American West. Rather than directly grant Alaska’s women the right to vote, Congress gave that power to the Alaska Legislature when it approved the law creating the Territory of Alaska, signed

by President Taft in August 1912.

When the First Alaska Territorial Legislature met, its first act was to unanimously approve a bill to allow women to vote. The Governor signed the bill in March 1913.

This Alaskan action was praised by supporters of women’s suffrage in the United States. At that time only nine states (Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Washington, California, Oregon, Arizona and Kansas) had granted women the vote.

The Seattle Sun wrote that “Alaska is nothing if not progressive.”

On August 18, 1920, with the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the US Constitution, suffrage was extended to women across the United States in time for the 1920 presidential election.

And in case you’re wondering…

The Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry parade entry won first place!

DINING

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July 2013

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Meet Buddy

By Angie Lewis

Buddy is an older gentleman with plenty of life and love left to give. Through no fault of his own, Buddy found himself abandoned at the local shelter after eight years of loyal service to the only family he’d ever known.

Buddy is currently being trained at a professional boarding and training kennel in Wasilla, to help him with his manners and to cope with some of the anxiety he is suffering due to his abandonment. Buddy has a wonderful Labrador personality and loves to play and fetch. Buddy will come with several training lessons to ensure a smooth transition to his new home.

Community Efforts Help Houston Pets Submitted by Julie

Johnson, Advocates for Dog & Puppy Wellness As the sleepy little dog wakes in the morning she hears the rustle of bowls as Tom prepares her meal for the day.

She wags anxiously as he approaches her door and sets it down inside her kennel. She looks at the food but instead decides it’s best to spend time with Tom for the moment he’s here. She nuzzles his hand asking to go play. “Sorry girl, not today we’ve already got emergencies to tend to this morning.” Tom is a Houston City Firefighter.

> If you would like to schedule an appointment to see Buddy in action, call Trish at 841-7223.

Houston Animal Shelter is a small shelter run by the city of Houston, and Tom is its designated caretaker. The duty is sometimes more than one person can handle, especially when that one person has another important task; keeping the community safe.

For the past six months the routine of the Houston Animal Shelter has changed in a positive way for its animals. Community rescue groups, veterinarians, and local residents have stepped in to help with animal care.

Together they are making a difference in the lives of these shelter dogs and cats.

Dogs are getting walks, photos are being taken and posted on Petfinder, vaccinations, spays and neuters are all being donated by rescue groups and compassionate local residents.

They are still in need of more help as there are only three regular volunteers for the daily walks for the dogs. Blankets, beds and chew toys are gladly accepted. Time is the most precious gift of all.

> Please contact Britt907@

gmail.com if you have time to spend with some of the shelter pets

Summer Care Tips for Your Dog

By Angie Lewis, Vice

President Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue Summer should be a time of enjoyment for you and your dog, but all too often, this is a time of year that situations arise that can endanger your dog.

1. Don’t leave your dog in a car – not even with the windows opened. Dogs can’t perspire and have a very hard time cooling off in a hot car. The temperature in a car can quickly rise to 120 degrees – in a few minutes.

4. Lost dogs – make sure that your dog is micro-chipped and that the contact information is current.

- Activate Vitamins and Minerals in the body.

- Build the body’s Systems to resist disease.

6. Exercise – hiking with your dog is a wonderful experience. Be sure to limit exercise on a really hot day, particularly for older dogs, or those dogs with thick coats.

Provide enough rest time and ample water. Asphalt can be very hot and actually burn the pads of your dog’s paws.

7. Fleas and ticks – this is not as big a problem in Alaska as it is in other parts of the country. If you use products for fleas and ticks, check with your veterinarian.

Some over-the-counter treatments can be toxic, even when used as directed.

8. Summer Events – be mindful of taking your dog to summer events such as concerts, fairs, or other crowded places. These can be stressful for some dogs, who may run the risk of getting lost.

Know your dog and what might be uncomfortable for her.

9. Fourth of July – some dogs are very frightened of the loud sound of fireworks.

Dogs are best kept in the house for these celebrations. Some dogs become so stressed that they need medications to help them deal with the loud sounds. More dogs are lost during this holiday, than any other throughout the year, because they try to escape the noise and run away.

- Cleanse the body of toxins.

- Direct Aid your individual circumstance. *That the bulk of nutrients are assimilated in the Small Intestine. *That by the age of 50, most people will produce only 15% or less of the Hydrochloric Acid they produced at age 25.

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www.healthyherbshoppe.com

July 2013

3. Lawn and garden dangers – plant food, fertilizer and insecticides can be lethal for your dog.

5. Dehydration – make sure that your dog has plenty of water and shade to help her remain cool and hydrated.

2. Don’t drive with your dog in the back of a pick-up truck – your dog is a member of your family and should be treated as such. If you had to suddenly hit the brakes, your dog might literally fly out of your truck bed. Let her sit in the cab with you, or if nothing else, put her in a secured crate in the back of your truck. Seats belts, made specifically for dogs, have been proven to be 100% ineffective.

The ABC&D of the healing process:

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

There are only a few safety practices that need to be followed to ensure that you and your dog have a wonderful time this summer.

DO YOU KNOW?*

In addition, your dog should wear a collar with an identification tag.

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Community

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July 2013

Community Mat- Su Animal Care Shelter’s Huge Yard Sale

By Susan Fujimoto One Day ONLY Saturday, July 20th 11am-4pm Located at the Mat-Su Animal Shelter 9470 E. Chanlyut Circle between the Central Landfill and Recycle Center Animal items including ferret cages, fish tanks, dog beds, covered litterboxes, dog clothes, dog and cat carriers, cat scratch posts,

rabbit hutches, and even some bee keeping supplies.

Household items including dishes, linens, new bath mats, glassware, bunk bed, toddler bed, king size brass head board and footboard, mirror, full size wicker headboard.

Sporting goods, telescope, coats, backpacks, adult and children clothes, toys, table saw, rolls and partial rolls of chain link fence, posts and pieces, 2 parking lot lights, hose reel, utility sink, retro working pink wall oven and much, much more!

> All proceeds to benefit Shelter projects

Something to say?

Write about it!

And send it to us: www.makeasceneak.com

> Volunteers help

demonstrate some of the items that will be available at the Mat-Su Animal Care Shelters Yard Sale

Summer at the Palmer Museum

By Selena Ortega-Chiolero

Earlier this year, the Alaska Humanities forum announced that it would be securing an exhibition block from the Smithsonian Institution’s Museums on Main Street (MoMS) program. MoMS is designed to bring high quality traveling exhibits to rural America so that they can engage small town audiences and bring revitalized attention to rural communities through their own historic houses and museums.

Beginning in August, the museum will be exploring alternative artforms with

The August Art Walk will be hot, hot, hot! Many exciting events are planned for the great outdoors and the Palmer Art Walk will be celebrating its first year anniversary! During the afternoon’s festivities, PMHA will feature an outdoor photo booth with Cat Dossett, that will allow visitors to share images and stories of their own personal tattoos, and members of the Valley Fine Arts Association will be selling and displaying their work adjacent to the garden. Artists that are scheduled to be featured include: Patricia L. Jones, Peggy Benson, Terry Phillips, Patty Halley, Karen Mattson, Eileen Johnson, Karen Crandall, Bernice Gregory, Eileen O. Johnson and Gina Murrow.

So be sure to mark your calendars for Palmer’s August Art Walk which will be held on Saturday, August 10th.

For more information about how to participate or attend the Palmer Art Walk, please visit the PMHA website at www.palmermuseum.org.

This month the Palmer Museum of History and Art is the place to be and we promise not to disappoint! Be sure to check our web-site at www. palmermuseum.org for more details about the Palmer Art Walk and any of our events.

2013

About PMHA: The Palmer Museum of History and Art is a non-profit museum that serves the community of Palmer in preserving and sharing the history and art of the Palmer region.

July

the exhibit The Art of Ink, a collection of items that describe the history of the tattoo and how it has evolved into a true art form. The exhibit will include photographs, by By The Spirit Photography, of tattoos that

Exhibits of this quality usually carry a heavy booking fee; however, the burden of this cost has been taken by the Alaska Humanities Forum.

Instead, to allow this exhibit to be more accessible, they created an application process that would allow them to narrow down their selection of the few Alaska museums that would be able to host the exhibit. PMHA is

PMHA is currently seeking organizations that are interested in participating in this exciting exhibit.

Interested groups should contact the museum director, Selena OrtegaChiolero, at the museum via email at director@palmermuseum.org or by phone at 907-746-7668 for more information.

have been created by several artists from a few of our valley tattoo studios including Cynful Ink, BPU and Arctic Ink. This exhibit will also be featured during Palmer’s second Saturday Art Walk in August which promises not to disappoint.

As part of these improvements, PMHA is in the process of completing its giant vegetable display, adjacent to its Agricultural Showcase Garden. It will feature the museum’s 2012 Art Acquisition, Mat-Su Giants, created by artist Pat Garley. The installation will include the sculpture, a static sign detailing the project, a solar powered audio post that will offer agricultural and historical information in multiple languages and two vegetable beds featuring Alaska Grown.

This project has been an uphill climb but thanks to the museum’s generous donors: the Rasmuson Foundation, the Alaska Division of Agriculture, City of Palmer, Kiwanis Club of Palmer, Kenley Alaskan Vegetables, Palmer Soil and Water Conservation District, the Chuck Shaver Memorial Fund, Palmer Lions Club, and the

Inside the museum, PMHA has introduced its newly installed feedsack dress exhibit that details the history and development of the feedsack dress and offers visitors an opportunity to experience history first-hand by dressing up in period clothing. PMHA is also busy working on its telephone exhibit thanks to a supportive donation from MTA, which will be available to the public by the end of the summer. In addition to these updates, the museum will also be acquiring new temporary display equipment thanks to the support of a Grant-In-Aid from the Alaska State Museum. The grant will allow the museum to acquire new display panels and pedestals which will be needed for its upcoming temporary exhibits.

proud to announce that its application was accepted and will be hosting the MoMS exhibit Key Ingredients: America by Food in June through July of 2014. Key Ingredients describes America’s diverse regional cooking and eating traditions. “It investigates how culture, ethnicity, landscape and tradition influence food and flavors we enjoy across the nation.” The exhibit is comprised of descriptive panels, photographs, and objects that tell the story of how food has shaped America and vice versa. The exhibit allows for several opportunities for the museum to collaborate and develop programming with several of our local community organizations.

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This summer, the Palmer Museum of History and Art, PMHA, has been focusing on improving its permanent collection displays and developing its public programming.

It has recently received several beneficial contributions and as a result, has a few exciting events planned for the following year. PMHA has seen an overwhelming amount of support from the Valley community and looks forward towards making the Palmer Museum more of an integral part of the community.

Mat-Su Chapter of the Alaska Farm Bureau, it is soon to be complete. The installation is tentatively scheduled to be completed by the end of August, just in time for the Alaska State Fair.

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Community

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Community The History of Reeve Aleutian Airways

July 2013

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8th Trapper Creek Fireweed Festival:

A Grassroots Effort Now…

By Faye Palin

By Laura Derungs

After a colorful career as a barnstormer and as an airmail pilot for Pan American Grace (Panagra) in South America, Robert Campbell Reeve (age 30) founded ‘Reeve Airways’ in Valdez, Alaska in the Spring of 1932.

A true example of generosity!

Folks are coming together to share their talents and knowledge with one another for a wonderful day of music, family focused fun and hands on activities!

His first plane in Valdez was a single-engine biplane, an Eaglerock, with a Wright J5 engine ‘that had been especially designed and fitted at the Wright Company for Sir Hubert Wilkins (famous Arctic explorer) to take on his Arctic expeditions.

There are musicians & dancers throughout the day & local artisans selling their creations & offering to show how they are made, so folks can learn about various crafts including sewing, jewelry & wilderness skills like fire making.

Trapper Creek Fireweed Arts Council is a non-profit that at one point had grant funding allowing us to advertise and get the word out about our free community event. Now, it is up to volunteers, donations, memberships & wordo-mouth to keep this favored event happening. Thanks to all involved & all who come up to join in!

Performers include: August & Martin Budde, Gaia Tribal, Gypsy Cowboys, Hooty, Glenn Mellott, Grover Neely, Paul Thomas, Trading Post Jam & Deb Wessler Trio

> Gathering: Sat, July 20th,

11am–7pm at Trapper Creek Community Park, Mile 115.2 Parks Hwy.

> For more info: 733-1546

Wilkins and Ben Eielson had carried it on their history making flight across the North Pole to Spitzbergen in 1928 as a spare.’

But the Eaglerock’s fuselage was a mess (the result of the last pilot who flew it overshooting the

Valdez field, tearing off part of the lower wings on tree stumps and tearing the fabric on both the lower fuselage and tail surfaces); it need some new ribs, patching, and careful realignment. Reeve spent a full month repairing the Eaglerock and then test hopped it.

He spent a large portion of the flight exploring the mountains and glaciers inland from Valdez to determine if he could land on the glaciers in order to make a living supplying the mines. After the successful test hop, he leased the Eaglerock for $10 an hour after having been paid $1 an hour to repair it” The rest of the story can be found in a book in the Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry Gift Shop, along with many other books covering everything from the construction of the Alcan Highway; the Japanese invasion of the Aleutian Islands during WW II; and, many books for children about animals in Alaska’s wilderness.

Rasmuson Foundation

awards $5 million to Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program

This $5 million grant makes up the largest single grant ANSEP has ever received. The funds may be used over a period of five years to enable the successful continuation and growth of the program’s components.

“Rasmuson Foundation was one of the first advocates for ANSEP. Together with the ANSEP partners, we are transforming the education and economic opportunities for Alaska Natives and other students across Alaska,” said ANSEP Founder and Vice Provost Herb Ilisaurri Schroeder, Ph.D. “The new Rasmuson Foundation funds provide a major opportunity to extend and institutionalize our work. We are honored and humbled.”

Tier 2 awards are for strategic projects and the expansion or start-up of innovative programs by established organizations.

The Board of Directors considers Tier 2 grants, which are more than $25,000, twice a year at its board meetings. Letters of inquiry are required and accepted year-round, followed by a detailed proposal by selected organizations.

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July 2013

Rasmuson Foundation has exhibited strong support of ANSEP’s mission and program components over the years. The Foundation provided a $2 million challenge grant for the state-of-the-art ANSEP Building at

“UAA is grateful for the Rasmuson Foundation’s generous ongoing support of one of the University of Alaska’s flagship programs,” said UAA Chancellor Tom Case. “ANSEP is making an enormous difference in the lives of our students. This $5 million gift will do much to sustain and grow the impact of this innovative and successful program.”

“For decades leaders in the Native community and rural villages have struggled with how best to raise their students' achievements. The key to ANSEP's success is really simple. If you raise expectations for students, provide access to challenging curricula and provide a supportive environment that expects high achievement, the students will exceed expectations.

'Each one, teach one,' is the working philosophy,” said Rasmuson Foundation President Diane Kaplan.

"New ANSEP students stand on the shoulders of the successful students who came before them and receive a helping hand from their predecessors."

UAA, which was opened in 2006, as well as a $2 million challenge grant for the Dr. Herbert P. Schroeder ANSEP Endowed Chair in 2008.

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ANCHORAGE Rasmuson Foundation Board of Directors announced on July 15 that the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP) will receive a $5 million award over five years as part of the Foundation’s Tier 2 grant program. The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) will match the Rasmuson Foundation award with increased program support that will reach $1 million annually after year five to help institutionalize and sustain ANSEP’s award-winning components.

Community

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Community

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Community

U.S. Army

crowded together in one area, waiting in lines, milling about with no apparent purpose. It drove me insane. When the fireworks started and I almost dug a foxhole. I was sitting there on a blanket with my kids on my lap, my wife next to me, and my friends all around me, and I thought there was a firefight going on. The explosions were loud and resembled a 105mm artillery piece.

My mind actually started hearing small arms fire. I had to keep reminding myself that I was home, and safe. I am not sure how I got through it.

I had a difficult transition to the real world after returning from my fourth deployment in June 2010. I noticed there was a problem at the Independence Day festival. There were thousands of people there,

Later that month a friend suggested SCUBA. As I entered the water I was astonished by the quiet and simplicity. The only thing I was responsible for was to breathe in and out. As time went on, and I

The Warriors’ Notebook:

By SGT Steve Shumaker,

NOW OPEN! Everyday - 10AM-5PM

July 2013

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Being Home

20 Acres of Indoor & Outdoor Exhibits RV Drive Through Access Gift Shop Atwood Park Picnic Grounds

Modern Restrooms Light Refreshments Handicapped Accessible Ample Parking

3800 W Museum Drive, Wasilla | 376-1211 www.MuseumOfAlaksa.org

became more proficient, I could add more simple tasks, such as swimming around to look at things, then more complex tasks like underwater navigation. As I watched the fireworks this Independence Day, away from the crowds, I still sometimes remembered to simply breathe in and out. Simplifying in such a manner helps me to turn everything else off.

I also learned a form of meditation.

I know that some of you are thinking “That’s not for me” well ok, not all of you will try SCUBA either, but I have benefitted a great deal from meditation. I don’t do the type of stereotypical cross-legged, chanting, meditation that you see in the movies, I found some books that were easy to read written by a guy that I identified with, and learned from him. Meditation has given me the ability to clear my head.

When I find myself in a situation that turns on memories from downrange, I can usually figure out pretty quickly that I need to meditate, and things get better very fast from that point.

I have found that serving others is a great way to lose yourself. I serve in my Church as a youth leader and I volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America. I look for opportunities to do more within my community. I have found that the more I give of myself, the better I feel about myself.

I also feel that if I focus on the youth of America, I can teach them something, and I feel like I am making a difference.

This is what has helped me get through each day since I got home from the war. I know each of you have your own battles. I hope you will find tools to help you on your journey as I have.

Alaska Railroad

Celebrates 90th Anniversary of President Harding Driving Golden Spike, Completing Railbelt On July 15, 1923, President Warren G. Harding drove a Golden Spike into the Railbelt in Nenana, marking the completion of the track, which became and continues to be the backbone of the 49th state.

This historic event celebrates its 90th anniversary on Monday, and the Alaska Railroad is honoring all passengers on board for this momentous day.

Each passenger will receive an official certificate, and passengers passing through the town of Nenana on the Railbelt between Fairbanks and Denali will have a special surprise.

Monday, July 15 Trains passing through Nenana: Depart Fairbanks 8:15 a.m.

Arrive Denali 12:15 p.m.

Depart Denali at 4 p.m., Arrive Fairbanks 8 p.m.

Alaska Railroad Railbelt, particularly Nenana

> President Harding driving in the Golden Spike signifying completion of the Alaska Railroad.

Community Palmer Colony Express

By Gregory Gusse

Hi folks! Most of you know me as something other than the president of the Palmer Colony Express Corp. So I hope to tell you a little about us. We exist to restore our railroad and our historic place on the line!

Who are we?

Simply the Palmer Colony Express Corp. is you. We are your friends and neighbors, your children, your City Council. We are over 1000 signatures petitioning the return of our tracks. We are many of the employees and retirees of the Alaska Railroad. We are the Historical Society. We are the Chamber of Commerce. We are the Mat-Su Borough. We are your community...

We are anyone who has a dream of the future of Palmer and a love of its past. We are anyone who has had a wish for the return of the railroad to our community.

If you have an interest in the tracks you are one of us; that is our only “membership” requirement. There are no dues, no commitments just the desire to return trains to our town. That is our sole (and soul) mission to bring back the tracks.

We are entirely a volunteer community organization and will stay that way. It is in our by-laws.

There are no paid employees, no staff, no con men or consultants, no outside lobbyist. We are

not in the business of being an organization to raise money for an organization...our sole purpose is to return the tracks.

Contact us by email – info@alaska-gallery.com

What if I donate money to the organization?

Contact us on FacebookPalmer Colony Express www.facebook.com/ PalmerAKRR

We are designed to be a 501(c)3 charitable corporation.

That means your gift may be considered a charitable donation and may be considered tax deductible.

We’ll let you know when that determination comes back.

Why Bring Back the Track?

The history of Palmer and the Alaska Railroad are one in the same the rail is both emotionally and physically the heart of our town.

But of most importance, nearly every penny of what you give will go to the community railroad projects. Some outfits like the USPS won’t donate postage but in general we seek donations of product, time and effort from our neighbors and local businesses.

The track and its right of way are and should be maintained as a greenbelt through our town No other project can bring the economic advantage of rail service.

We are making a lot of progress!

The past 7 years seemed endless frustration but now things are happening. We are pretty sure from the perseverance of our group, our petitions, lobbying and attendance at board and council meetings. Now the railroad has begun surveying and designing the required area.

Legislative members are on our side, the City has begun repairs and reconstruction of areas left in disrepair. The tracks are a top legislative priority for the City.

Plans for an Alaska Railroad Monument and Memorial Park are underway. We are excited!

We meet every other Thursday 6:30pm at Vagabond Blues next meeting July 25th everybody is welcome.

Projections of 20,000 folks a year coming to Palmer, a rail destination.

Why a Monument?

The AKRR and the City of Palmer have been tied together for nearly 100 years. The men and women who built the AKRR are the people who placed the foundation for our community and many others. They should be honored and Palmer is the place to do it.

A monument of this nature could bring as many as 10,000 people a year just to see it. The economic benefit is tremendous.

> Artist's

concept of the Alaska Railroad Monument

Literature

Alaska Writers Guild Annual Conference

Gog and Magog,

in conjunction with the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators

Saturday, September 7 - Sunday, September 8 Early Registration through June 30th Only $190 Members / $225 Non-Members (SCBWI Track Only: $80 Members / $100 Non-Members)

A New Release by Alaskan Author Carl Douglass

The chairman told them, “I am well aware of your good intentions, your dedication, and your piety. What I do not see is your patience. . . . We are making progress; we are coming to know our enemies well enough to find their weaknesses . . . . I have spent enough time among the infidels to know that they cannot hold their blasphemous tongues. Our people know much of their plans; they know nothing of ours.’”

Meet with National Editors, Agents, and Authors

Gary Goldstein Kensington Press

Doug Grad DG Literary Agency

Deborah Warren East-West Literary Agency

Rubin Pfeffer East-West Literary Agency

Lisa Cron “Wired for Story”

Robert Masello Nationally Acclaimed Author and Speaker

Register now at www.AlaskaWritersGuild.com

New Issue of Cirque Literary Journal

By Kellie Doherty

Issue eight (4.2) of Cirque Literary Journal brings a tremendous mix of work, a balance of image and text, including excerpts from Jim Sweeney’s Alaska Expedition: Marine Life Solidarity, Kris Farmen’s Turnagain, and pieces

by Andromeda Romano-Lax and Nicholas Dighiera from The Better Bombshell.

Eva Saulitis reviews Christine Byl’s, Dirt Work, former poet laureate Tom Sexton reviews John Morgan’s Forms of Feeling.

ElaHarrison interviews poet Erin Hollowell, The issue is graced by poems from David Wagoner, Tess Gallagher, Tom Sexton, John Morgan and other fine poets. Read it here full-text. Order a copy for $16.95. Cirque is sold at these fine books stores, Homer Books, UAA Bookstore, Cover to Cover (Seward), Fireside Books (Palmer) and Renaissance Books in Portland, Oregon.

Cirque, edited by Michael Burwell and Sandra Kleven, now enters its fifth year. Writer Kathleen Tarr says, “Cirque is quite simply, a work of art-the kind of literary journal you will return to again and again. Evocative in its literary content, exquisitely designed, and exceptionally good.”

October, 2001 “’The Great Satan and the Little Satan were nicked, but not maimed, annoyed, but not ignited. The members of the Council of Leaders of Islam were collectively frustrated that thirty years of effort by Freedom Fighters had produced so little at so great a cost.

By Rebecca Goodrich With the very first sentences of his new thriller, Gog and Magog, Douglass had me by the throat with excitement.

(I know this is a cliché, but I’ve never said this about any book before.)

Douglass has matured from a good writer into a great writer. And what a topic to take on! With Gog and Magog: Yawm al-Qiyamah, Yawm al-Din, The Day of Judgment, Douglass launches the reader into an all-too-plausible future, outlining how Islamic terrorists [some quite well known] are plotting to eliminate democracy world-wide.

Here’s a sample, those very same first sentences which have so impressed me as both reader and reviewer:

Gog and Magog features a truly strong female protagonist, Elizabeth Rowan, who first attracts national political party attention by revolutionizing prison security for the WOWs—the Worst of the Worst, the unredeemable prisoners of the U.S. As the years through 2012 unfold in this tumultuous and all too plausible alternate history, Rowan is groomed for the presidency. There is nuclear war. It’s one wild ride, and I hope you pick up this book soon. Better clear a weekend for it!

> Rebecca Goodrich is a writer,

editor, book developer, and book reviewer who grew up believing she’d never leave California.

Then somehow she ended up in Dutch Harbor in 1994.

Rebecca Goodrich now lives in Anchorage, Alaska

> scribing@hotmail.com

Literature

Poetry

Electronic Marketing Envy

So Jenna is known for entertaining, comedy and vlogging. Although vlogging and blogging rhyme with flogging, Jenna is laughing all the way to the bank.

I’ve written a book. It’s published.

Now to market we go!

Where does that leave me? Fighting the green eyed monster of jealousy.

Why can’t I be so clever?

By Hillary Saffran

It’s the new electronic age. Social media is what is used for publicity and marketing, along with the hopes that a witty YouTube video will go viral.

Sure. Like I’m the boomer answer to Jenna Marbles and the Hyperbole and a Half blog. I would never have discovered these fabulously famous media forms had I not been the mother of a teenager. It’s amazing what you can learn about our culture from younger generations - especially youth subcultures.

I find myself becoming envious of these folks. For example, Jenna Marbles (Mourey), according to Wikipedia: Mourey’s video “How To Trick People Into Thinking You’re Good Looking” had over 5.3 million views in its first week.[2] Her video “How To Avoid Talking To People You Don’t Want To Talk To” was featured in an August article in the New York Times[3] and ABC News,[4] in which she was quoted as saying, “I’m sick and tired of guys thinking that just because I showed up at a club or a dance or a bar, that I want to have their genitalia touching my backside.” The video had approximately 31 million views as of June 19, 2013.[5] She uploads a new video to her YouTube channel every Wednesday.

Mourey has over nine million subscribers and (as of April 12, 2013) over one billion total video views on YouTube.

We live in a new age. Who knew that someday going viral would be a good thing?

Then I realize, even if I was so clever, that boomers and older folks don’t seem to make things become exponentially popular as quickly as the younger crowd. Though I’m doing my best to not be infected with the jealousy gene in my quest for virility (pun intended) I find myself plodding ways to achieve fame, then fortune through monetizing.

Why couldn’t I have written the words to “The Mom Song” by Anita Renfroe? Now there’s a boomer that had a viral YouTube video. It quickly obtained millions of hits, and Anita enjoyed appearances on Good Morning America as a result of it. According to Wikipedia, she is at work on a sitcom. Ironically, she didn’t even post the video - her sons did, then it took off.

I am not in the same galaxy as any of the aforementioned social media successes.

Will I have made it big when Amanda Bynes tweets that I’m ugly?

I know - be content with who you are. I have a nice life, great friends, and an enjoyable job. Then - THE MARKETING of THE BOOK rears its’ publicity seeking head with the electronic duties I am to perform for its promotion. Heck - why did I

write it if not to spread the content to bring joy to others? It brought comfort to me when experiencing trials - so then once again I become energized to spread the word, and I find that I am more motivated to spread smiles than to pay debts and grow my bank account.

With that stated, here is my shameless promotion: www.laughter-is.com is the link for Laughing Your Way through Hell - Tips for Self Care While Going through Adversity - which is now in print and Kindle on Amazon.

The next book signing is scheduled for July 31st at 5:00-7:00 pm at the Dorothy Paige Museum on Main Street in Wasilla. I will also be presenting parts of my show “Party of One with Friends” so come one come all for a great time, and bring 100 of your closest friends!

Then have these friends post on their Facebook walls that they love the book they just purchased, and may they write glowing reviews on Amazon, make it a bestseller...oops - I just noticed that my eye and skin color have turned green!

Time Does Fly Ann Lyons

Tonight at grandma’s they wish to stay The day is done and tiredness has overcome For a bed her couch is made and now they lay On opposite ends their heads do claim Two separate blankets they are clinging Older sister she, younger brother he Their feet so close, nearly but not touching So tired from days long play they be His does snore in sleep most loud On his stomach he has gone to sleep She talks in words not quite understood Perhaps counting sheep when they leap Asleep, angelic at days end so sweet The things dreamed, I know not about But wonder what their minds do seek I hope they are good and nightmare not All knowing she, but he can hold his ground Taught by her, what this life can be Lessons he learned from her but self he found His love and adoration- amazing to see Together they play- sometimes they may fight Strong willed they are and they may tease and mock Friends again soon, forgetting who was right Starting over, hand and hand they will walk When others be present so shy is she, though he is not Dark long hair has she- his blonde- short cropped His body fair-burns in the sun-her skin tan and dark So fast they are growing, their height the wall marked For him cars and trucks and anything that vrooms No dolls for her -buggy things her thoughts excite Ladybugs, worms and ants in glass jars their new homes Banished from the house to porch till dawns light Both of them grow as I have watched in awe So proud the accomplishments they make Knowing too soon the nest they leave by natures law Pictures, memories and joy is all I can take So grateful-the moments with me they have shared Knowing well this time-too soon will have passed I watch as they grow to adults from childhood paired Realizing playful innocence cannot be surpassed For time does goes on; I wish that I could forestall Lives pace flows implacably...an organic clock Tick-tock, tick-tock, I cannot stop for on it runs for all Children and adults- the minutes do fly- and will not stop

Education

A Place to Lay Their Heads

pillows, and hand stitch them closed.

We will have supplies for 1,000 pillows to be created! 1,000 pillows to comfort 1,000 children who are hospitalized!

Submitted by Sam Allred

About H.O.B.Y.

Hi, my name is Sam Allred. For the past 3 years, I have been working on creating small, travel size pillows for kids who are hospitalized. I was given a small pillow one of the times I was hospitalized. That pillow meant a lot to me, it showed that somebody cared.

I want children that are hospitalized to feel loved the way that I did, that is why I continue to do the pillow project.

Inspiring, Educational, Compassionate, Energizing, Enthusiastic, Motivating, Transforming, Long-Lasting, and Life-Changing

This year I was recognized for my volunteer service as Alaska’s top middle school student for the 2013 Prudential’s Spirit of Community Awards. As a state honoree, I traveled to Washington DC in May, and I had the great opportunity to meet other state honorees and hear about their projects. I was introduced to HUGH O’BRIAN YOUTH LEADSHIP (H.O.B.Y.), by state honoree- Virginia Newsome, who shared that H.O.B.Y. is the nation’s foremost youth leadership organization. Since it is my desire for my project to spread, we inquired about going to H.O.B.Y.’s World Leadership Congress, as Virginia had suggested. I was pleasantly surprised when they contacted me.

I have been given the great opportunity to address 400 students from around the world! My goal is to encourage them to engage their communities, to find something that they would like to change, and then to create that change!

This could have quite a powerful ripple effect that will go on and on! I also will be leading a hands-on service project, as they will be participating in my pillow project. This will give over 160 students the opportunity to sew pillows on sewing machines, stuff

These are some of the words that students, schools, parents, alumni, volunteers and supporters use to describe Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY). What does HOBY mean to you?

Founded in 1958, HOBY’s mission is to inspire and develop our global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service and innovation. HOBY programs are conducted annually throughout the United States, serving local and international high school students.

HOBY programs provide youth selected by their schools to participate in unique leadership training, servicelearning and motivation-building experiences. HOBY also provides adults with opportunities to make a significant impact on the lives of youth by volunteering. Over 4,000 committed HOBY volunteers plan and execute the programs each year, serving both at the local HOBY affiliate level and on HOBY’s Board of Trustees. Due to the selfless efforts of volunteers and the contributions of generous donors, nearly 9,000 students participate in HOBY programs annually.

Today, over 375,000 proud alumni make HOBY stronger than ever. HOBY alumni are leaders in their schools and communities, throughout the

United States and the world, making a difference for others through service.

For more info www.hoby.org

I am asking you to team up with me, by sponsoring me, as I take on this new endeavor. The amount of funds I am under a time pressure to raise this week, to cover this project is $2,500.

The funds will be used to cover travel expenses, stuffing and other supplies that are needed to complete the project of creating 1,000 small pillows.

I appreciate any and all support that you are able to give.

When the project is completed, I am willing to give you a personal full report on the project if you like. Or if you choose, you can follow me on Face Book, My Blog, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Thank you for your time and your consideration in supporting me.

Sincerely, Sam Allred

> For Donations go to: Facebook Community Page: Project Comfort. Or to support Sam by purchasing his book, go to cuppycakesam.com

> Donations can also be made

to: kindnessforkids.org or mail to: Sam Allred 801 Winter Ave Wasilla, AK 99654

Donation Account

for Local 3-Year-Old

By Susan Timm > 3-year-old Remedy Carte was diagnosed in early May 2013 with brain cancer.

Remedy’s parents, Heather and Josh Carte, dropped everything here and moved Remedy to the Seattle Children’s Hospital for treatment. She is expected to do six months of Chemotherapy and then at least two months of radiation before they can even begin to think about operating on the tumor that is wrapped around her brain stem.

My cousin Chloe Langill and I have been rallying for the family since they found out about the tumor. We walked in Remedy’s honor recently at Relay for Life, and we held a fundraiser for them Sunday June 9th. In addition to the fundraiser and relay, we have donation jars placed at different businesses in Palmer to collect funds we will deposit to the benefit account at Wells Fargo.

The name on the account is Remedy Carte, and anyone can deposit money to it.

The jars are at Northern Comfort in Wasilla, Bagles Alaska, Butte Green Store, Sidekicks in Palmer, Coffee & Cream @ Country Cuts, Brew Haha in Palmer, Envee Boutique, Nonessentials, Klondike Mikes, Paradise Tannimg, O’Reilly Auto Parts in Palmer, Slacks Sugar Shack, Humdingers, Silver Tip Design, Back Country Bikes, DelRois bar in the Butte, and Pizza Delphi.

Thank you for your time!

ADVERTISE YOUR SUMMER PROGRAMS for KIDS HERE! 373-2698 www.MakeASceneAK.com

March of Dimes Alaska: High Heels for High Hopes

Tickets for the 2nd annual High Heels for High Hopes Runway Fashion Show to benefit The March of Dimes are on Sale Now! This year’s models include 15 of your friends and neighbors; doctors, nurses, your local dignitaries and others all to support the March of Dimes and Healthy Babies.

Once again this year each of the models will display three outfits: Business Casual, Evening Attire and “Who Are You?” their choice of clothing representing their personalities.

This year our models are out to have more fun then they did

last year! Take a peek at who is modeling, who do you know?

Returning fun-loving models are Dr. Deena M. Paramo; Emily Stevens, CNO; Laura Peterson, MD; Mayor DeLena Johnson; Rachel Lescher, MD ; and Roxie Mayberry. New to the show this year are Aryne Kay Randall; Carolyn Hanson; Lanissa Grogan, RN; Matt Hirschfeld, MD; Representative Lynn Gattis; Representative Shelley Hughes ; Rob Grogan; Stacy Peterson; Vanessa Ybarra!

> Tickets are $35 or

a reserved table $500 and are on sale at NonEssentials, Shear Fire Design, Younique Boutique, Mat-Su Regional Hospital or call the March of Dimes at 276-4111,

> Visit us at

marchofdimes.com/ alaska where you can also support a model!

Mat-Su Regional Medical Center is once again very proud of partnering with the March of Dimes for the second annual High Heels for High Hopes Runway Fashion Show.

Physicians, nurses and community leaders leave their “day job” behind and are transformed into Runway Models.

As models they each strive to raise money for the March of Dimes – last year they raised $30,000 in pledges and sponsorship support! Monica Martin, RN, Mat-Su Regional Medical Center was the top model raising $3500!

This year the event will be held August 8 at Ravens Hall on the Alaska State Fair Grounds.

To support your local model go to www.marchofdimes.com/alaska and look for High Heels for High Hopes.

Mat-Su Regional Medical Center is very committed to ensure healthy babies for their community. This year Mat Su Regional Medical Center was accepted by the March of Dimes to be one of the leading hospitals in their 39 week Quality Initiative – Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait. Research has shown that for the healthiest start, babies should remain in utero until after the 39 th week of gestation.

2012 & 2013 Runway Model Emily Stevens, CNO, Mat-Su Regional Medical Center

Entertainment

> FREE WITH FAIR ADMISSION CONTINUED

BACK TO

S__C__H__O__O__L__!

20% OFF ON PURCHASES OF $10 OR MORE Not good with any other discounts or promotions.

Huge Selection of Clothing, Shoes, Accesories and much more!

503 W. Parks Hwy, Wasilla | 907-376-0111

> King Tut: Wonderful Things from the Pharaoh’s Tomb FREE with Fair Admission Monday – Friday Noon – 10 p.m.

Saturday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Labor Day 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Don Sheldon Events Center Discover the mysteries and treasures of ancient Egypt through this magnificent collection of superbly reproduced artifacts from the most astonishing archaeological

WITH TWO LOCATIONS! DINE IN TAKE OUT DELIVERY WASILLA 357-2300 ¦ PALMER 746-3266 2300 E. PARKS HWY

PALMER-WASILLA HWY

treasure ever discovered – King Tutankhamun’s legendary tomb!

This world-class exhibit includes more than 130 replicas of the pharaoh’s sacred and personal possessions, such as his golden shrine, magnificent state chariot, iconic golden mummy case, spectacular funerary mask, and bejeweled royal mummy – items that will never be seen outside Egypt, but can be experienced at the 2013 Fair!

> Terry McDermott & the

Bonfires

FREE with Fair admission Monday, September 2 3pm & 8pm Sluicebox Seating is limited.

This “shaggy Scottish rocker” was the runner-up on NBC’s “The Voice” Season 3, and his new single, “Pictures,” recently reached #1 on iTunes. *Also opening for Bret Michaels Life Rocks 2013 on Sunday,

September 1 @ 7pm in the Kendall Toyota of Anchorage Borealis Theatre.

General Admission $35 | Reserved Seating $60. Buy Tix: alaskastatefair.org

Music

Alaska Bible College is now in PALMER! www.akbible.edu

> Kevin Worrell under the moniker "Beer Money" to play a mix of rock, country, reggae and alternative music.

Kevin Worrell’s ‘Beer Money’ with Chicago based band Akasha

Three members of the popular Chicagobased reggae outfit Akasha-bassist Doug Bistrow, drummer John Barbush and keyboard player Shane Jonas-will be making their annual trek to the wilds of Alaska to play a string of shows and music workshops, July 11-20. The trio will join Anchorage-based singersongwriter Kevin Worrell under the moniker "Beer Money" to play a mix of covers and originals that encompass rock, country, reggae and alternative music.

"Beer Money is where my friends take a musical vacation," explains Worrell.

"We all break from our normal routines to form this abnormal musical outfit."

Worrell, who released the CD The End of the Beginning in 2006, is excited to have the members of Akasha, a band that has supported The Toasters, Sister

Nancy, KY-Mani Marley and Souls of Mischief, in Alaska to share their talents at favorite venues and workshops presented via the Anchorage Music Coop.

According to Bistrow, "Leaving the hectic electricity of Chicago for the mountains and clean air of Alaska to play music for a few weeks is one of life's great pleasures." He finds the people that he has met on previous trips to be "warm, friendly and hospitable right off the bat; always ready for a dance or a bonfire or a drinking contest (or sometimes all three at once!)."

Beer Money's string of shows begins at the Tap Root in Anchorage on July 11 and ends at the Fairview Inn in Talkeetna on July 20.

In between there will be a performance at an open-air farmers market in Palmer, AK (7/12), shows at the Yukon Bar in Seward (7/12-13), a gig at the Down East Bar in Homer (7/14), the aforementioned music workshops (7/16-17) and a show at The Salmon Bake in Denali (7/18-19).

REGISTER for the 2013 FALL SEMESTER at Alaska Bible College in PALMER!

We are excited to announce fully accredited degree programs at Alaska Bible College in Palmer!

A full range of classes being offered can be found on our website. Call or email now to take classes in Christian ministry, missions, education, and outdoor ministry.

TO REGISTER:

Online: www.akbible.edu/Palmer Call the Registrar: 800-478-7884 Email: creimer@akbible.edu

The Crystal Mandala Ask about our classes on Saturday from 2-5pm

907-892 5562

Eastlake Mall, Big Lake

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

Alaska Wild Woman Camp

Institute asked a woman with t children if she’d like to learn compass.

By Debra McGhan, NAOI

“No thanks,” she told him.

“Think through the wood,” my husband said, pointing out the proper technique for splitting kindling.

“Do you have an emergency kit i disaster?” he asked.

Lifting the ax into the air, I half-heartedly slammed it down on the chunk of wood balanced on the log before me with a disheartening thud. It bounced away, barely making a dent.

“You have to think through it, clear to the bottom,” Bruce reminded me. “Focus your energy and mind and growl at it. You can do this,” he coached as he repositioned the wood.

I didn’t want to learn to split kindling. But, as Bruce had pointed out, this was a skill that could keep me and our children from freezing to death if I had to build a fire and he wasn’t around to help me. I had no idea at the time just how prophetic that would prove to be.

Determined to show him I could master this task, I tried again. This time I did as he instructed, slamming the ax into the wood with surprising force. To my delight I split the board in half with ease. The success made me giddy with pride. His praise added to my reward and I spent the next half hour practicing my new skill.

Less than a year later, Bruce was gone, killed in a landslide. More than twenty years later I was standing at the Alaska State Fair when an instructor with the North America Outdoor

“I don’t know, my husband tak all that stuff,” she said, moving

The memory of Bruce teaching m wood flashed through my mi wanted to ask her what she woul husband was not around to help

As she walked away pushing th with her sleeping baby nestled in second young child in tow toddl her, I knew that while she migh to know or care today, there mig time. And there are lots of peop ready and want to learn.

For those people, my missio North America Outdoor In clear; do what we can to provid opportunities for the women, adults…anyone that wants to lea

For the past five years, NAOI and refining the Wilderness This program is easily customi for everyone from Little Expl families. Participants learn and practice techniques they m emergency situation.

Based on real case studies of v

HOME SCHOOL PROGRAM Statewide K-12

HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION PROGRAM Now Enrolling: 2013-14 School Year

• Choice in Education • Credit Recovery • Individual Academic Support • Serving Students to the age of 20 • Computer/iPad Lease Program

www.cyberlynx.org

ALLOTMENTS for curriculum materials & supplemental services: Music Athletic Art Lessons Foreign Language Tutoring Special Education Support

wasilla@nenanalynx.org

(907)357-7734

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

Hours: Tues-Wed: 5-8pm Thurs: 12-8pm Fri: 12-6pm and Sat 10-6

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

Call for art classes & workshops.

ART & CREATIVITY CENTER

735 S Bailey Street, Palmer 746-2787

two young to read a Custom Tie Dye - Custom Sewing - Custom Dog Coats

775-4257 Eastlake Mall, Big Lake

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SUMMER SPECIALS:

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Mike Sage Jr., DDS | Ken Lim DDS www.alaskacenterfordentistry.com Wasilla 373-2273 | Anchorage 562-2512

killed, the scenarios utilized provide opportunities to put skills into practice and range from avalanche response to emergency fire building, wilderness medical, Alaska plants and animals, navigation, knots, water safety and much more.

Little Explorers, age four to eight, get to learn skills that include simple techniques to keep from getting lost, medical emergencies, building an

the chance navigation wilderness emergency

shelter, and other basic outdoor skills.

This year NAOI is offering a three-day camp just for women. If you are new to the outdoors or a veteran of the ‘Becoming an Outdoor Woman,’ program the Alaska Wild Woman camp will give you the opportunity to learn, use and test your skills August 8-10.

> CONTINUES ON PAGE 24

roadhouse bakery ● restaurant ● rooms

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

Live Acoustic Music Every Second Saturday, 5-7pm

On Main Street ● 733-1351

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

22 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com July 2013

5322 S. Big Lake Rd Big Lake, Alaska

Give us a call to set up your free tour of our two great properties!

Regular Hours: Wednesday - Thursday 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Friday 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM Saturday 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM Sunday 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Catering Available www.thealaskaboathouse.com

Where will the adventure take you?

Go to www.ideafamilies.org to learn more and enroll or call your local IDEA Office at 357-4850

A few of the benefits of joining IDEA * computer, printer and free tech support by certified techs * internet and e-mail account * student allotments for school supplies and lessons * local office with friendly staff, library, and resource room * IDEA is the largest statewide homeschool program with over 3,600 students enrolled. * IDEA is fully accredited and provides caring certified teachers to assist parents with student progress. * Because IDEA is a public school, IDEA is completely free! Enrollment for 2013/2014 is OPEN now!

The ONLY program homeschool in the nation FFA with its own chapter!

Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center Takes Flight to New Location!

By Randi Perlman After almost seven years operating mainly out of a garage, Alaska WildBird Rehab Center (AWBRC) is on the move to a brand new location.

The new property, just off Kenlar Road in Houston, will allow the rehab facility to set up operations in a standalone building large enough to handle the many birds that come through the center’s doors each year. It will also provide space for expansion, when needed and as funds allow.

The 25-acre parcel of property is a long-term lease from the City of Houston, and will allow easy access to the facility. The City of Houston has been very supportive of AWBRC and its mission to provide care to sick, injured and orphaned wild birds and to educate the public about these birds and their habitats. The working partnership with the City of Houston is mutually beneficial and will enable AWBRC to move forward with its long-term goal to combine wild bird rehabilitation and education at one location, a portion of which will eventually be open to the public.

To help raise much-needed funds for the new facility, AWBRC will hold its 1st Annual Garage & Bake Sale on Saturday & Sunday, July 20 & 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

It will be held at 6601 S. Calista Drive, Settler’s Bay, Wasilla (mile 8 KGB, left at Chevron onto Settler’s Bay Dr, first right onto S. Calista).

This is an opportunity to shop the fabulous items offered for sale, meet some of AWBRC’s education birds, purchase yummy baked goods, pick up some items exclusive to AWBRC for a small donation, become a member and receive a coupon for garage sale items, and help us help Alaska’s wild birds while educating the community about one of Alaska’s most wonderful wild resources!

Volunteers are needed to help with various jobs as AWBRC begins the task of re-constructing the rehabilitation center and bird enclosures (or mews) at the new location. Carpentry skills would be particularly useful, but any help will be greatly appreciated…

> If you would like to volunteer, please contact Jill Parson at 892-4404 or call the center’s new phone number at 892-2927 and leave a message.

And of course, as always, it’s for the birds…!

Member of

> ALASKA CAMP CONTINUED

> NAOI Intern Travis Albanese helps little explorers collect emergency supplies

From glacier trekking to wilderness cooking, preparing the kids for a camping adventure to Alaska wild plants, this camp will feature lots of hands-on workshops.

As I set another board on the splitting stump, quickly amassing a pile of kindling, I smiled thinking about Bruce and the simple, practical skills he’d armed me with that I’ve utilized so many times over the years. I understand now that he helped me on the path to independence and

empowered me with the ability to take care of myself and others with confidence in an emergency situation.

If I can share that gift with others, then I’m doing exactly what I should be doing with my life and that is a great thing.

> From Little Explorers (ages

4-7) and beyond, get the full schedule/sign up go to NAOIAK. org, or call 376-2898

> Little Explorers practice rescuing a friend in the water

26

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

July 2013

Community The Corner Link:

Did you know that wedding cakes used to be made of bread?

sweet buns in a large pile in front of the newlyweds. The couple would attempt to kiss over the pile. Success in the process was a sign that there would be many children in their future.

By Donna Turner

The history of the wedding cake goes back as far as the Roman Empire, well before the concept of elaborately icing a cake, was invented. Through the years, the wedding cake has become the focus of a variety of customs and traditions. Some of these customs have survived through time. Some have not. The custom of breaking the cake over the bride’s head is no longer practiced. The tradition may have its roots as far back as the Roman Empire.

The groom would eat part of a loaf of barley bread baked especially for the nuptials and break the rest over his bride’s head. History tells us that breaking the bread symbolized the breaking of the bride’s virginal state and the subsequent dominance of the groom over her. As wedding cakes evolved into the larger, more modern version, it became physically impractical to properly break the cake over the bride’s head. The tradition disappeared fairly quickly in some places, but there were still reports of breaking an oatcake or other breakable cakes over the bride’s head in Scotland, in the 19th century.

In Medieval England, cakes were described as breads, which were flourbased foods without sweetening. No accounts tell of a special type of cake appearing at wedding ceremonies.

There are, however, stories of a custom involving stacking small

> Traditional French Wedding Cake

By the late 19th century, wedding cakes became really popular. Early cakes were simple single-tiered plum cakes, with some variations. It was a while before the first multitier wedding cake of today appeared in all its glory.

In the minds of most people, wedding cakes are “supposed to be” white.

The symbolism attached to the color white, makes explaining this tradition rather simple. White has always denoted purity, a notion as it relates to white wedding cake icing that first appeared in Victorian times. Another way, in which a white wedding cake relates to the symbol of purity, has its basis in the fact that the wedding cake was originally referred to as the bride’s cake. This not only highlighted the bride as the central figure of the wedding, but also created a visual link between the bride and the cake.

Today, that link is being further strengthened as more contemporary brides have their wedding cakes coordinated with their wedding gown color, even if it’s not white!

of bride and groom to provide for one another. Tradition indicates that as a guest, if you eat a piece of wedding cake you are supporting the sweetness of the couple’s marriage.

Before Victorian times, most wedding cakes were also white, but not because of the symbolism. Using the color white for icing had a more pragmatic basis. Ingredients were very difficult to come by, especially those required for icing. White icing required the use of only the finest refined sugar, so the whiter the cake, the more affluent the families appeared. It was due to this fact that a white wedding cake became an outward symbol of affluence.

The Groom’s Cake is a tradition that was prevalent in early American ceremonies, but seems to have fallen from favor in most contemporary weddings. The groom’s cake was usually dark (e.g., chocolate) to contrast with the bride’s cake. The groom’s cake appeared at the reception along with the wedding cake. The origin of this tradition is unclear.

Some believe it was to be served by the groom, with a glass of wine, to the bridesmaids. Others believe it was to be saved and subsequently shared with friends after the honeymoon. The tradition seems to have survived primarily in the South.

Wedding cakes take center stage in the traditional cake cutting ceremony, symbolically the first task that bride and groom perform jointly as husband and wife. (the cake has never been meant to be smashed in each other’s face!)This is one tradition that most of us have witnessed many times. The first piece of cake is cut by the bride with the “help” of the groom. This task originally was delegated exclusively to the bride. She cut the cake for sharing with her guests. Distributing pieces of cake to one’s guests is a tradition that also dates back to the Roman Empire and continues today. However, as numbers of wedding party guests grew, so did the size of the wedding cake, making the distribution process impossible for the bride to undertake on her own.

Cake cutting became more difficult with early multitier cakes, because the icing had to be hard enough to support the cake’s own weight. This, of necessity, made cutting the cake a joint project. After the cake cutting ceremony, the couple proceeds to feed one other from the first slice.

This provides another lovely piece of symbolism, the mutual commitment

The once simple wedding cake has evolved into what today is a multitier extravaganza. The multitier wedding cake was originally reserved for English royalty. Even for the nobility, the first multitier cakes were real in appearance only. Their upper layers were mockups made of spun sugar.

Today most wedding cakes have three layers each with the largest layer on the bottom. It is said the when cutting the cake the bottom layer is to be cut for the guests, the middle layer is to be cut for the families of the Bride and Groom and the lastly the top layer is for the couple. Some couples opt to freeze the top tier of the cake to save it for their first anniversary.

Regardless of the underlying reason, when the couple finally does eat the top tier, it serves as a very pleasant reminder of what was their very special day.

Public Safety Announcement: Water Safety (ANCHORAGE, Alaska) – Operation Dry Water is normally conducted before the July 4th holiday in order to raise awareness of boating safety issues with the goal of reducing the incidence of collisions, injuries, and fatalities involving boaters. The initiative also seeks to foster a stronger and more visible deterrent to alcohol and drug use on the water.

Thirty Alaska Wildlife Troopers from across the State participated in boating safety patrols for Operation Dry Water during the past weekend, contacting 436 vessels and 1002 boaters. Two operators were arrested and charged with boating under the influence. The Troopers also issued 30 citations and gave 62 warnings for boating offenses, ranging from operating an unregistered power vessel to failing to have PFDs or other required safety equipment

aboard their vessel. Increased boating safety enforcement efforts were conducted not only on the ocean, but in rivers and lakes as well.

The Alaska Wildlife Troopers would like to remind Alaskans that while on the water in any boat, you are required to have a personal floatation device (PFD) for everyone on board. This applies to anyone in an inflatable raft, canoe, kayak or any type of motor boat. For Boats 16 feet and over, boaters are required to have a throwable type 4 PFD, more commonly known as a life ring. Anyone 13 years of age or younger is required to wear a PFD while on the water, to include when they are being towed in an inner tube.

While Operation Dry Water occurred last weekend, Troopers will continue to patrol state waters and issue citations for boater safety violations. Go to www. alaskaboatingsafety.org to learn how to keep your loved ones safe when recreating on the water.

Manny’s Driver Education Training Safer, More Knowledgeable, and Aware Drivers.

We are more than just driver trainers!

Reduced insurance rates for most drivers.

Classes Begin: July 9, August 6, September 9 (10 am - 2 pm)

Class D Road Testing VEHICLE AVAILABLE

Call to register: 841-3639

Do you love to sing? Join the

All vocal ranges.

No auditions necessary.

(Auditions if under 18)

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

Mat-Su

COMMUNITY CHORUS

VPA Awards 2013

Best Actress: Laura Horning, “Granny”, The Beverly Hillbillies

Robison

Best Actor: Ted Carney, “Inspector Clouseau”, The Pink Panther Strikes Again

Submitted by Lauralynn

Best Supporting Actress: Mariah Schachle, “Elly May”, The Beverly Hillbillies Supporters, volunteers and patrons of Valley Performing Arts gathered on June 12th to celebrate VPA’s 37th season of providing quality live theatre at the Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony at the Machetanz Theatre in Wasilla. Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Talis Colberg, the Director of the Mat-Su College, kept guests howling with laughter by sharing great theatre facts enhanced by anecdotes of the presenters and award nominees.

VPA Members (Season Ticket Holders) elected Elizabeth Hanson, Ron Bissett and Lucas Parker to the VPA Board of Directors during the meeting.

They also selected the following the season standouts with the Members’ Choice Awards: Best Production: The Sting Best Director: Garry Forrester, The Sting

Best Supporting Actor: Larry Bottjen, “Henry Gondorff”, The Sting Best Costume Design: Cheri Trask, Sense and Sensibility

Best Sound Effects: Josh Newman, The Sting Best Lighting Design: Aaron Zulliger, Clue the Musical

Best Set Design: Barb Laucius, Clue the Musical VPA Board of Directors honored the following dedicated volunteers: Volunteer of the Year: Chuck West Newcomer of the Year: Kelly Anderson Board Appreciation: Kathy Sage VPA’s Artistic Director, Larry Bottjen, presented the Artistic Director’s Award to Wendy Golter for her years of dedicated service

and The Milking Stool Award went to Bianca Purcell for her performance as “Fern” in The Sting. Executive Director Garry Forrester recognized volunteer Joyce Martin for her years of service as the official photographer for VPA. Thank you to Edward Jones Investments, Karis Johannes, Josh Marquette, MVFCU, Mudbusters Car Wash, Sleepy Hallow Golf Course, Spenard Builders Supply and Wells Fargo Bank, for their generous donations for great door prizes.

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Valley Performing Arts’ Season 38 starts September 6, 2013 and runs through May 25, 2014 with: BRIGADOON; MURDER ON THE NILE; YES, VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS; THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB; POLLYANNA; THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES; and SEE HOW THEY RUN.

> For season tickets please give

our office a call at 373-0195; individual tickets to each play go on sale in August.

Give us a call 373-2698

Email word document or plain text to: makeasceneAK@mac.com

We want to provide the community with as much information as possible, but sometimes we get overwhelmed with info. So, if you don’t get a response, please keep trying.

ADD US to your mailing list! makeasceneak@mac.com We can stay up-to-date with you!

Remembering 1963

By Vic Kohring

A few days after crossing the Canadian border, we reached the ALCAN, the Alaska-Canada Highway. It was an unpaved, rough gravel road, built as a World War II supply route and opened to the public just 15 years before we drove it. We stopped at Watson Lake, Yukon Territory and nailed a “Kohring/Lake Zurich, Illinois” sign among the thousands at the “Signpost Forest” to show where we came from.

I recall vast sections of wilderness forest covering entire hillsides and mountains along the road as we neared Alaska.

At the end of our week’s stay in Ninilchik, my father returned after successfully finding work in Anchorage. But we still needed a place to live. While house hunting, we pitched our tent at the Eagle River campground, 50 feet from the riverbank. It rained every day and was cold and damp. I can still see heavy rain pouring down while gazing across the rushing water.

Our house search was narrowed to two places--in Anchorage near Jewell Lake and on Birchwood Loop Road in Chugiak. The Anchorage house was off the west end of Sand Lake Road (nowDimond Boulevard), close to the bluff overlooking Cook Inlet.

Sand Lake Road was a two-lane, mostly gravel road with very little traffic. I recall the Seward Highway (now the Old Seward) intersection where the Dimond Center currently exists. There was zero development except for one small cluster of houses.

It’s now one of Anchorage’s most densely developed areas.

The epicenter of the 9.2 quake, the second strongest in recorded history, was only 140 miles away. For years, we hauled water and used an outhouse. I remember a military crank phone, our only telephone service, which was a small wooden box that fit neatly under my parents bed in the living room of our tiny 20 by 20 foot house. The phone was connected with neighbors on a party line from wires strung through the forest. Our house had no foundation and sat on creosote posts.

It was built from surplus lumber from nearby Fort Richardson. My family relied heavily on a large garden and ate lots of salmon and caribou. And we heated with wood and coal. We roughed it, but I never knew the difference.

In 1969, my family moved to Anchorage for seven years. Then in 1976, we purchased 8-1/2 acres in Wasilla which my father and I developed into “Kohring Subdivision,” where I live to this day, 37 years later. It’s now considered part of “downtown” Wasilla.

> Vic Kohring is a resident of Wasilla.

July 2013

We purchased the Birchwood house with 2-1/2 acres the week of my fifth birthday for $8000.00. In the late

Birchwood Loop Road was long, bumpy and dusty with lots of potholes.

Today, it’s paved. Our place had a hand dug water well about 18 feet deep and lined with open ended steel barrels to prevent cave ins. We also used a cesspool consisting of a pit covered with spruce logs, a common practice.

Both well and septic collapsed during the ‘64 earthquake nine months later.

As I reflect back after a half century, I’m impressed with my father and mother’s courage as young parents who sold their house in Illinois, a state where they lived their entire lives, and moved our family to a far away place with no job, little money, no place to live and not knowing what the future held. They must have experienced real uncertainty and anxiety. But I’m forever grateful for their bold decision as it proved to be a wonderful adventure for us all and a state which has been a great place to live. Many doors opened for me with lots of opportunities.

June 30, 1963, the day of our arrival in Alaska, was significant for me.

I was thrilled as the place seemed almost mystical. At the border was a large “Welcome to Alaska” sign. We pulled over and all of us kids ran over for pictures. When we got back in our vehicle and continued on our way, I became confused as I was under the impression that upon arrival in Alaska, you’re supposed to start building a log cabin to live in. I envisioned a large cabin with rock fireplace and

Our destination was Ninilchik where friends awaited. We camped in our six-man tent on their beach homestead on Cook Inlet for a week, although it wasn’t easy to access as it involved a long walk across a cow pasture and down a sharp embankment requiring a rope on steep portions. I had Chicken Pox at the time, but have no recollection of being sick as I was too busy at play.

1990’s, a real estate brokerage listed it for over $300K. When first checking out the property, I was delighted as I loved the thick forest of birch trees. I decided this was the place for me and literally begged my parents to buy the house. My mother told me for years afterward that they bought it because I insisted. I must have been a pretty persuasive five year old!

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Exactly 50 years ago on June 30th, my family crossed the border from Canada into Alaska after a ten day road trip beginning in Lake Zurich, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. I was 33 days shy of my fifth birthday, but remember the trip well. I recall driving home from the car dealership with my parents in our newly purchased Ford Econoline van just prior to our departure. We towed a homemade utility trailer containing our life’s possessions, drove across the Midwest through Minnesota and then crossed into Canada on our way north.

roaring fire and a bear rug sprawled on the floor with snarling teeth. I didn’t grasp the reality that my father needed to find work and our family a house to buy. To my disappointment, we continued on to Anchorage.

29

Politics

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

July 2013

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

makeasceneak@mac.com

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

Transportation Department for doctors

appointments in the Valley Wasilla and Palmer area, Mon-Wed-Fri 9.00Am -3Pm. Shopping trips, and pharmacy stops, Tues – Thursday 9Am -1Pm Come up to the Center for activities or dinner,24 hours in advance notice.

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

FAMILIES & CHILDREN Alaska Family Services

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

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

LINKS Mat-Su Parent Resource Center.

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

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

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

Family Promise Mat-Su

Provides a shelter for families without housing.

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

Applications are available on our website.

357-6160, www.familypromisematsu.org

The Children’s Place

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

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

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska

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

Alaska Center for Resource Families

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

376-4678, bwoodin@nwresource.org

Pillows for Kids Foundation

We provide little pillows of support and little scholarships for local children to participate in brain-training activities such as art, music, gymnastics, swimming, skiing, snowboarding, skating, horseback riding, and 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 September through July 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 Julygstensgericht@yahoo.com or by telephone at (907) 376-5060. The band’s website can be found at http://www.alaskaceltic.org

Mat-Su Concert Band, Inc.

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

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

The Whirling Rainbow Foundation

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

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

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

Valley Performing Arts

We’re celebrating 36 years of Quality Live Theatre!

VPA performs seven plays a year from September through July. 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 July through August and are for youth 6-11 and 1217. The VPA Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony is held each July and Annual Fundraiser in October.

Purchase your tickets online or from our office.

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

373-0195, www.valleyperformingarts.org

Valley Arts Alliance

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

We are a place for both new and established artists of all types—painters, sculptors, musicians, and those involved in the performing arts—to network and to experiment with new ideas and media.

We work with local libraries, schools, museums, art councils, and music and art groups to create more venues for the arts, and to help promote art related events. www.valleyartsalliance.com

ANIMALS Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue (ADPR)

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

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

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.

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

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

Valley Residential Services (VRS)

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

(907) 357-0256 , valleyres.org

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 July 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 government agencies to render assistance.

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

OUTDOORS 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

conduct fundraising events to keep the birds fed and warm. It’s all “for the birds.”

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

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.

Alaskans for Palmer Hay Flats

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 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.

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 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

August 2 – Paul Pike (of Medicine Dream) – 11:30 - 1:30

July 26 – Lulu Small and Band – 11:30 - 1:30

August 9 – Dan Mac Quintet – 11:30 - 1:30

July 2013

July 19 – John Cook – 11:30 - 1:30

Friday Fling 2013 - Music Schedule

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

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

Responsible adult volunteers are always needed.

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

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.

31

volunteer for this very worthy cause.

745-7030 adpr03@yahoo.com

18

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

July 2013

CALENDAR SUBMISSION 10th of month by 5PM Email information to: makeasceneak@mac.com Miss Witherspoon Thurs, August 16 - Sunday, September 8 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, cyranos.org Anchorage Symphony - For all Seasons Sat, February 1, 2014, 8pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 W 6th Ave $20-42 www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org Anchorage Symphony - Electric Nights Sat, March 29, 2014 8pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 W 6th Ave $20-42 www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org Anchorage Symphony Season Finale Sat, April 26, 2014, 8pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 W 6th Ave $20-42 www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org Eileen Ivers Sat, October 26, 2013, 8pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 W 6th Ave $27-44, www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org Anchorage Symphony Silent Film Double Feature Sat, January 11, 2014, 8pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 W 6th Ave $17-39, www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org

Sat, July 20, 11am-5pm Reflections Lake Recreational Area Mile 30 exit off of Glen Hwy, Knik River Access Exit Free Alaskans for Palmer Hayflats 907-357-8711 www.palmerhayflats.org 2nd Chance Prom at the Fairview Inn Thursday Night - July 25th, 10 pm Fairview Inn Downtown Talkeetna Free!

907-733-2423 https://www.facebook.com/denali. inn?fref=ts Estate Planning 101 Wasilla Area Senior Center, 1301 S. Century Circle Friday, July 12 from 12:5 pm - 1:30 pm Free to the public Constance Aschenbrenner, 907-3349200 AARP Driver Safety Course Wasilla Area Senior Center 1301 S. Century Circle Monday & Tuesday, July 22 & 23, 2013 Begins 8:00am until Noon each day $12/person for current AARP Members $14/person for non-AARP Members MUST ATTEND BOTH DAYS 907-770-2000 AARP Meeting Wasilla Area Senior Center 1301 S. Century Circle Thursday, July, 18, 2013, Starts 1:00 pm Free Estate Planning 101 Wasilla Area Senior Center, 1301 S. Century Circle Friday, July 12 from 12:5 pm - 1:30 pm Free to the public Constance Aschenbrenner, 907-3349200 Live at Five Summer Concert Series Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend (May 24th - Aug 30th) Every Friday from 5-7pm Free

Steve Lippia in “Simply Sinatra” Fri, February 14, 2014, 8pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 W 6th Ave $27-44, www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org

Artisans Open Air Market - ALL SUMMER LONG Every Saturday, Sunday & Monday 10am-6pm May 18th - Sept 16th Outside of the Sheldon Community Arts Hangar.

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

Don Sheldon Story: documentary film ALL SUMMER LONG When: June 1st thru Sept 2nd.

Every Sat, Sun & Mon at 1:15pm & 2:15pm Hangar doors open at 11am.

Cost: $5 ages 18 and under / $7 general admission. Tickets available at the door.

Anchorage Symphony - Landscapes Sat, November 16, 2013, 8pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 W 6th Ave $20-42, www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org

Talkeetna Live: Life at the End of the Road - ALL SUMMER LONG Sunday June 2nd - August 26th Sundays at 6:30pm / Mondays at 6:30pm Cost: $15 general admission / $8 for kids 12 & under

Palmer Toastmaster Club Every Tuesday 5:45pm-6:45pm MTA Building Commercial Drive, Palmer, Alaska Free Jan Thurlow, 907-376-4552 palmer.toastmastersclubs.org Summer Family Fun Festival at Reflections Lake

Alaska Theatre of Youth Enroll online in our Summer Programs at www.alaskatheatreofyouth.org or contact the office directly at admin@ alaskatheatreofyouth.org or (907) 338-4901.

Theatrical Combat Intensive Training August 12th – August 18th (Mon-Fri 12pm-4:30pm) Ages 15–Adult, Tuition $225 Beginning Theatrical Combat

Dorothy G. Page Museum Wednesday Night at the Museum July 17, 2013 – 5-7 pm Julie Cascio provides information on food preservation techniques July 17, 2013 – 6 pm a Special Presentation of Kimbra Mensch’s Comedy “Kicking Cancer’s Butt” July 24, 2013 – 5-7 pm Ehmann Outdoors presents Fish and Game Processing July 31, 2013 – 5-7 pm Hilary Saffran presents “Laughing your way through Hell” and book signing Aug 7, 2013 – 5 -7pm Tony Russ Outdoorsman book signing Aug 14, 2013 – 5-7pm Julie Cascio presents Berry Identification Aug 21, 2013 – 5-7pm Ute Olsson of the Eagle River Nature Center presents Animal Skulls and Fur Dorothy G. Page Museum Art Submissions August 23, 2013 – 5 pm Deadline for submissions 4th Annual Brassieres to Nowhere – Breast Cancer Awareness Art Exhibit Karaoke for Seniors Wasilla American Legion post # 35. off the Parks Hwy, mile 46. last Thursday of the month, 2 pm, seniors from Palmer, Houston, Wasilla , and more The Swingin’ Ravens perform Lake Lucille Inn Saturday, Sept 28, 6PM to 9PM. Featuring the music of Louis Armstrong and Pete Fountain.

John McKimmey Clarinet, Tenor Sax and Vocals; Hank Hartman Trombone, Joe Hartman Bass, Christa Mayfield Drums.

Modern New Orleans Swing!

This Gala Event benefits Stride Alaska.

Tickets are $50 and may be purchased online.

Google: COWGIRL AFFAIR 2013 Trapper Creek 8 th Annual Fireweed Festival Saturday July 20th, 11:am – 7:pm Family Fun Community Event Live Music, Local Vendors with Hands On Arts, Crafts & W ilderness Skills by a fire FREE parking & admission Mile 115.2 Parks Hwy. Trapper Creek Community Park Rain or Shine / Bring a picnic TCFireweedArts@hotmail.com (907)733-1546 Valley Mountain Bikers And Hikers Sunday, July 28th Hike to Rae Wallace Pass Meeti 10am, lower Independence Mine parking lot, Hatcher Pass Beer Meets Chocolate, Sat, July 27 3 - 4 p.m. $20 Arkose Brewery All events are for 21 yrs and older Pre-registration required (907) 746-2337 to sign-up Salsa dance lessons Wasilla Lake Resort Every Wednesday 8pm-10pm Wasilla Lake Resort/Club Hydro 1850 E Bogard $10 per person, $14 per couple Liz Robinson 907-315-7304 Alaska Agriculture Appreciation Day at the Farm Thurs, August 8, Noon - 6pm

UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm 1509 S. Georgeson Drive, Palmer AK Free UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm 907-746-9450 http://www.uaf.edu/snras/afes/palmerresearch-extension/

1-3pm Free Mat-Su Senior Services 1132 S. Chugach St. Palmer, AK 99645 745-5454 mat-suseniorservices.com sueann.smithatmat-suseniorservices. com

The Wasilla Marketplace on the scenic Wasilla Lake local vendors Local musicians Thursdays and Saturdays from June 23rd to August 31st 10am-6pm

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

UNBEETABLE summer concert series At Bistro Red Beet 5031 E. Juneflower Ave. Palmer/Wasilla Highway July 25, Tom Begich 7pm Ticket Price: 10.00 Ticket Reservation: call 376-1400 or email redbeet@mtaonline.net Intimate concerts – limited space – reserve now!

Cash Mob Palmer Thurs, July 18th Meeting Place: Moosehead Bar Gather after work, between 5 & 6 Chili & Jam: Enjoy a hearty bowl of chili and a heaping spoonful of music Every Tues 6:30pm-8:30pm Starlight Ballroom, Anchorage Senior Activity Center 1300 E. 19th Ave., Anchorage Music is free; chili and other refreshments available for purchase.

Anchorage Senior Activity Center & Hurricane Dave Wasilla Market June 23 – August 31 On Parks Hwy, Next to Fred Meyers, Wasilla

RECURRING 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

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 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

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

Discussion Junction Family Book Club First Tues of each month Wasilla Meta-Rose Library

Caregivers Connection Last Mon of each month

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

Social Issues TLC Corner Chat

By Tiffany Moffitt Rye

My name is Tiffany Moffitt Rye and I am a lifelong Alaskan who was born a twin at Providence Hospital in Anchorage in August 1970 and I have lived in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough and mostly Palmer for all of my almost 43 years. I am recently as of last year, the Owner of Side Kicks Gifts, TLC & More in the Koslosky Center in historic downtown Palmer and I am married to my wonderful husband, Christian Rye and we have two lovely daughters, Kyla and Drue Olson-Rye. In case you have lived here awhile, you might have noticed a common Valley name...

Moffitt. My twin brother and I were born to Mark and Ree Moffitt and Mark is the son of Wallace Moffitt who was the son of Archie and Sarah Moffitt and they were my great grandparents who settled here as replacement colonists in 1937.

Now that I have set the stage for you to be aware of who is writing to you and my background...let me share why I wanted to start writing this Corner Chat piece to begin with.

I have been writing for many years and I have always had a heart and mind to inspire others and watch their lives be transformed by those inspirations and the words of their testimonies.

For anyone who knows me personally or even through my Facebook page or our business, they know that I am a Christian by the words I speak and the people I have the joyous opportunity to infect with the love only God Himself can produce in me.

Therefore, this Corner Chat is meant to be the very name I have given it...TLC Corner...(The Love of Christ). I hope you will come to love the writings along with my own personal testimonies the Lord has carried me through and inspires me to share with His people...Amen.

I feel led to share a thought for the month that I hope inspires you greatly, touches your heart supernaturally and most of all strengthens, encourages and brings you hope and comfort right where you are.

My life was touched by abortion at 15 years old. My own. I had been sexually assaulted by a friend and left pregnant and without sharing all the messy details... I never heard the words, “We will help you raise your child.” So...I chose abortion 2 weeks before my 16th birthday. And have walked through much forgiveness with my family since then.

I will tell you how it affected my life for the next 22 years... I hated myself. I longed for death to come. I thought of myself as a murderer. I became addicted to marijuana, alcohol, pain meds, and then a few times cocaine. I overate or allowed people to use me because I could not stand what I had done to my child. I loved children. I hated myself so much I had an affair with a cop and then married him after he was abusive to me for 3 years and nearly killed me and through abuse I lost 3 more babies to miscarriage!

Do you think I didn’t like the Tiffany who chose to take the life of a helpless child? Well, I didn’t like her...I hated her.

I will share more as the months go on...but I want you to know that God has redeemed my choices and He is the ONLY One who could and would. Humans simply do not have the capacity to love us the way Our Heavenly Father does without His Divine nature. He is LOVE. He calls us to love others as He loves us and as we love ourselves, but we can only fathom this love by allowing ourselves to receive His Love first.

It is in the RECEIVING that we can then have His love flow through us and into others.

Question for the month: “If we do not love ourselves or in fact hate the very thought of ourselves for what we might have done or had done to us, how then can we expect to be able to RECEIVE the love our Father in heaven wants to give us so badly that He sent His Son to die on a cross just to forgive us and love us?”

Contemplation (prayer or meditation) for the month: Take a moment and think about how much you want your own children, relatives or even your spouse to freely receive your love even when they don’t feel worthy of it.

In His Service, Tiffany Moffitt Rye Sidekicksandmore@yahoo.com

2013 Talkeetna Birch Festival - July 19, 20, 21 Submitted by Joe Page, NSI Executive Director The Talkeetna Birch Festival will be a threeday multi-media event bringing together a collection of “Who’s Who” of Alaska Birch.

This Northern Susitna Institute event features hands-on workshops, seminars, lectures, and exhibits suitable for people of all ages and interests. Presenters will include state and national experts in the fields of birch silviculture, birch woodcraft, birch food production, traditional use of birch, and birch in art and literature.The intention of the Festival is to raise the awareness of our state’s dependence on Alaska Paper Birch (Betula neoalaskana) by paying tribute to its beauty, its biology, its historical usage as well as its functional characteristics.

Festival presenters include foresters, scientists, writers, artists, and a diversity of woodworkers and craftspeople. Along with workshops all day Saturday at the Northern Susitna Institute campus, a one time only variety show entitled, ”The Art of Birch” will be held 8 pm Saturday night at the Sheldon Community Arts Hangar.

The Big Birch Contest will take place on Sunday where contestants hope to discover a new state record birch tree. (Trunk Circumference (inches) + Height (feet) + 1/4 Average Crown Spread (feet) = Total Points).

Also on Sunday, products from the Talkeetna One Tree Project will be exhibited along with other art crafted and inspired by birch. The Talkeetna Birch Festival is supported in part by the Alaska Humanities Forum and many local sponsors. Festival events are free though donations are welcomed. A schedule of events and brief bios of presenters follows. Northern Susitna Institute (NSI) is a collaborative nonprofit educational organization based in Talkeetna, Alaska. We provide students of all ages an opportunity to learn, share ideas, and develop real life skills.

Talkeetna Birch Festival A Celebration of Alaskan Birch Betula neoalaskana July 19, 20 & 21

Sectional C Larry Zarella-- “Birch Ballads” Songwriting Workshop Location TBD 1 1/2 hours Maximum size: 8

Friday 7 pm Reception

Session IV 4 pm

8 pm Panel Discussion: “Birch in Art, Literature, Science, and Technology” (Sondra Porter, Moderator) Saturday Craft Workshops, Seminars, and Activities Session I 10 am Sectional A Ned Rozelle-- “How to Describe a Birch in 50 Words or Less” Writing Workshop NSI classroom 1 1/2 hours Maximum size: 10 Sectional B 1. Arthur Mannix-- “Birch: Its Resiliency, Renewability and Relevance in the Upper Susitna” NSI Greatroom 45 minutes Unlimited 2. Val Barber-- “Susitna Forestry Studies” NSI Greatroom 45 minutes Unlimited Session II Noon Sectional A Tony Crocetto-- “Plein Air Birch” Painting Workshop NSI classroom/outside 1 1/2 hours Maximum size: 10 Sectional B James Kari— “Linguistic Signs of *Q’əәy ‘Birch’ in the Dene Languages” NSI Greatroom 1 1/2 hours Unlimited Schedule of Events Session III 2 pm Sectional A Sondra Porter-- “Chewing the Bark” Writing Workshop NSI Classroom 1 1/2 hours Maximum size: 10 Sectional B Jan Dawe-- “The History and Genealogy of Alaska Birch” NSI Greatroom 1 1/2 hours Unlimited

Sectional A Kurt Jacobson-- “Capturing the Moment” Oil Painting workshop NSI Classroom/Outside 1 1/2 hours Maximum size: 10 Sectional B Ned Rozelle-- “How to Describe a Birch in 50 Words or Less” Writing Workshop #2 NSI classroom 1 1/2 hours Maximum size: 10 8 pm “The Art of Birch” Song, dance, birch bark masks, poetry, prose, anything goes… Sheldon Community Arts Hangar-- Phillip Manning, Master of Ceremonies *Birch Beverages courtesy Kahiltna Birchworks and Denali Brewing Company Sunday 10-4 Northern Susitna Valley Big Birch Contest Trunk Circumference (inches) + Height (feet) + 1/4 Average Crown Spread (feet) = Total Points 11 am Kahiltna Birch Works Tour/ Susitna Forestry Tour Mile 1 Talkeetna Spur Road Noon – 6pm 2013 Birch Festival Exhibition NSI Greatroom (Featuring products created from the single birch tree harvested in 2010 along with other art crafted and inspired by birch.)

Birch Crafts and Birch Product Vendors on site Saturday and Sunday.

Presenter Bios: Val Barber-- Val works for the UAF Cooperative Extension Service as a forestry resource specialist and runs the forest products program for the School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences.

Tony Crocetto-- Tony studied Fine Arts and became certified as an illustrator at the

University of the Arts in Philadelphia. He lives in Talkeetna and draws inspiration for his paintings from the local landscape.

Jan Dawe-- Jan served as coordinator for the Fairbanks One Tree Project and is coauthor of Pollen Size of Betula in Northern Alaska and the Interpretation of Late Qaatenary Vegetation Records.

Kurt Jacobson-- Kurt was born and raised in Alaska. He was instrumental in creating the “Art in the Parks” program, the first one set in Denali State Park at Byer’s Lake. He’s the current president of the Alaska Artists Guild.

Jim Kari-- Jim is a linguist and Professor Emeritus with the Alaska Native Language Center at the UAF specializing in the Dene languages of Alaska. Among his many publications is Shem Pete’s Alaska: The Territory of the Upper Cook Inlet Dena’ina.

Arthur Mannix-- Arthur arrived in Talkeetna over 30 years ago seeking adventure in the Alaska Range. Today he is co-owner/ operator of top Notch Log Builders, director of the Susitna Forestry Council, and co-director of the Talkeetna One Tree Project.

Sondra Porter-- Sondra is an instructor at Mat Su College and has long been involved in the Alaska State Writers Consortium and has led writing workshops in Denali National Park, the Copper River, and other wild places.

Ned Rozelle-- Ned is a backcountry adventurer who writes a weekly column for the U of A’s Geophysical Institute about all things nature, science, history, and the north. His new book is titled Natural Alaska, Life on the Edge.

Larry Zarella-- Larry is a masterful singer/songwriter, wilderness guide, and selfprofessed dog whisperer. He lives in Talkeetna and plays with one of Alaska’s favorite bands, Denali Cooks.

Social Issues Family Reunion:

On the Dysfunction of Distant Cousins

By Josh Fryfogle

Charles Darwin was a racist. Let’s be clear about that, right off the bat. Does that negate everything he discovered?

Absolutely not.

Darwin was an accomplished Scientist.

To disparage him now, judging him by his personal flaws relative to modern sensibilities would be unfair. That way of thinking would undermine every Philosophy, Science, Religion and Government ever imagined by man.

But, in all fairness, he was a racist. His theory of evolution implies that all the races evolved separately, and therefore, are different. The modern idea of racial equality is not consistent with that conclusion, being derived through scientific process.

The battle between Science and Religion will never be finished, because both sides seem plagued with human arrogance.

Neither tradition really negates that arrogance, and both are dogmatic at their core.

Of course, if you do claim a side in this battle, you might be taken back by that thought. The Scientifically confident

crowd might point to the Scientific process, their dogma. The religiously convinced may claim allegiance to God, doubting anything that doesn’t immediately jibe with their dogma.

It takes a lot of arrogance, in the face of history, to believe that we can comprehend the vastness of reality.

Religious people fall short of glory by assuming that these traditions of men, these religions, are somehow synonymous with the whole truth.

The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem.

Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.

What profit hath a man of all his labor which he taketh under the sun?

One generation passeth away, and another generation cometh: but the earth abideth for ever.

The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to his place where he arose.

The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind returneth again according to his circuits.

All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full: unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again.

All things are full of labor; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.

The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.

Is there any thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new? it hath been already of old time, which was before us.

There is no remembrance of former things; neither shall there be any remembrance of things that are to come with those that shall come after.

Ecclesiastes 1:1 King James Version, Holy Bible

Science believers are awfully puffed up, presenting their conclusions as facts, until they come to different conclusions.

They play the part of the socially evolved, when the history of science is rife with embarrassments and debacles, oppression of ideas; you’d think Science were a Religion.

“At some future period not very distant as measured by centuries, the civilised races of man will almost certainly exterminate and replace the savage races throughout the world. At the same time the anthropomorphous apes...will no doubt be exterminated. The break between man and his nearest Allies will then be wider, for it will intervene between man in a more civilised state, as we may hope, even than the Caucasian, and some ape as low as the baboon, instead of as now between the Negro or Australian and the gorilla” -Charles Darwin From “The Descent of Man”, in a chapter called “The Races of Man.” (1874, p. 178).

The first quote there, the one from the Bible, speaks to mankind’s ‘vanity’, how we falsely believe that we understand the world around us, but how really, even this tendency of vanity is itself part of a much bigger picture. We’ve been here before, and we were full of ourselves then, too.

The second quote refers to what Darwin speculates will be an inevitable race war, where the somehow ‘civilised races’ will exterminate the supposedly ‘savage races’, these human-like apes [sic], creating what the author ‘hopes’ would be a more ‘civilised state’.

Religion rebukes us. Science shames us.

At the core of the problem, I think, is the perceived duality of science and religion. History reveals a different reality. The first Science, according

to history, was Chemistry. Chemistry ‘evolved’ from Alchemy, so maybe they just avoid bringing up this crazy uncle of Science? Alchemy is most definitely rooted firmly in religion, steeped in spiritual symbolism. You see, Science and Religion are just two cousins of the same human/family endeavor: the search for truth. Both are noble in that effort, and arrogant in their execution. Neither acknowledge, humbly, that they have been wrong so many times that it follows they are not finished being wrong. Humility would do them both some good.

Are we to believe that Science is done, and none of what we hold true today would be proven wrong in the future?

Are we to believe that God is done with mankind, that we have fully-realized the complete truth? In this way, Science and Religion reveal their inherent similarities more than written history ever could.

I’m not saying that we should give up on Science, just stop with the arrogant, smug demeanor. I’m not saying to give up on God, either. Just give up the vain, self-assured statements of the ‘Truth’.

Ultimately, we don’t know what we don’t know. We don’t understand the physical sciences, or we would have solved the problems that plague all humanity. We certainly don’t understand God, or we would have stopped killing each other in His name.

Also, it might be good for a little family reunion between Science and Religion, if only they could say that they’re sorry for all the mean things they said about each other, and hug it out. Lesson learned.

Move forward.

36

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July 2013

Politics

For Steve Lovell

By Mayor Verne Rupright

[Ed. Note: Wasilla City Councilman Steve Lovell recently passed away in a heavy equipment accident. This is a revised version of the eulogy delivered at Mr. Lovell’s recent memorial service by longtime friend, Verne Rupright.]

To Steve’s family my deepest regrets and sorrow for you and the same to his friends, and all that called him a friend.

Words cannot sum up a man’s life and do it any true justice, nor do I believe will I. So much is said and so much is missing when we attempt to put a parenthesis on a person - how well did any of us know him and in what way?

For some it was a father, others as a son or close relative, a brother, a husband… a dear friend.

But what I know of Steve was he was a man’s man. That is not said as any bravado, but simply to say he saw what was expected of him and he knew his responsibilities and duty and he shouldered it. He pulled on his boots day after day and took on the world he knew and did what he thought was best.

When you spoke with him and listened to his words and his point of view, there was nothing vacuous or deceitful, or just plain senseless - it was thought out. He would put into words what was on his mind and how he came to his beliefs and conclusions. You knew by his demeanor and his countenance that he believed what he believed from a true nature. When he spoke, one could count on what he was saying.

He was loved and well thought of

by many people… he was the type of man you couldn’t help but like… he stood by his friends and family and by his beliefs. In many ways he was a traditional man… holding a certain sureness in himself, his way of life, his true love of country and community.

He always wanted to see things made right and believed in the better angels of our nature.

He would be candid, down to earth and very charming. He showed an interest in what people were saying and weighed and measured into his thoughts and responses. He put people at ease and also it was very easy to know where you stood with him. He wasn’t intractable and stubborn - he could see many points of view and then discern what was a good course for him to take.

In his government role Steve saw himself not as a leader, but as a true representative, elected by his neighbors to decide the hard things knowing there would be disagreements in the process. He knew that a nose may be bent here and there, and he never meant to be hard to work with… he never held any animosity. But he knew that hard decisions needed to be made, popular or otherwise, and it would not dissuade him from moving forward to meet a goal.

I met Steve’s mom, Margie, prior to this tragedy and immediately liked her. I could tell, given her attitude and confidence, where Steve had gotten his training from. Through this ordeal she has borne up well and met the challenges of this with a steadfastness of faith and inner strength. Knowing Steve as I did, I know that this must be a family trait. I can easily see where Steve learned his earliest lessons, and they served him well.

And to Jolene I want to thank you for being the friend you are to my friend,

our friend. You held his life together day in and out, standing by Steve and being there for him and the kids.

Cyrus… you were a light in Papa’s life… he spoke of you as not only a child of his, but a friend, he was so very proud of your growth and accomplishments and he wanted the best for you every day. Don’t lose that spirit! Steve was a good teacher and friend as well as parent to you.

Dale… you have been at Steve’s side for many, many years. Steve depended on you, as does his family… you are part of the Lovell family. Stay strong for them.

Sammie and Dave, dad was dad and was at your side… he thought the world of you both; he loved you, your young child and your husband. He was extremely proud of you.

Steve’s other children, his son and daughter who are with us, I never got to know you, but through Steve… he spoke often of you and looked forward to hearing from you and seeing you.

Meeting his son, I can see Steve all over again. Es tut mit lied. (German: I am sorry).

Many know that Steve served his country in the US Army, enlisting after high school and did so honorably.

Although a 21st century man, but in his walk through life Steve lived by a near 18th century credo much as the famous quote from Henry the 5th…

‘We few, we happy few, we band of brothers. For he today that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother’; when Steve stood by you, man, woman or child, you knew that he would stand with you to the bitter end.

boat repair or some such foolishness…

If their complaint was with Steve, I would set them as straight, as kind words would have it… Never mind a fee, or action, for someone… if they came with a complaint they would have to find someone else to complain to - certainly, never me or anyone who had ever dealt with Steve… I would always be thinking of the time he repaired my boat. I finally got it back and he took it to my slip at Big Lake.

I said: “Oh Boy! My boat back in the water.” I fired it up, put in reverse and I immediately went forward and beached it. I thought, “What?” I tried it again. Reverse was now forward, and forward was now reverse. I drove it around some then went to Steve.

He was embarrassed and floored. He yarded that boat back out fixed the screw up. Yet, I would always chide him about it and we laughed.

He was generous as he showed when his competitor Mike Anderson died at his shop some years ago in a tragic accident. Steve was there for Mike’s family helping them sort out Mike’s business… Mike’s son and former wife knew Steve and appreciated him very much. At Mike’s celebration of life Steve and I were there together… a sad day, yet one that tried to look to the bright side.

Steve loved his country, his state and his community… it’s people… it’s being… he loved liberty and freedom and strongly believed in the promise that is this country… He believed it was worth living for, and dying for if needed Steve disliked distortions of truth… he never blasphemed. By that I don’t mean that he didn’t use profanity.

There were times that I thought he may have been better suited in the Navy…

Rarely, when I was working the law business here in Wasilla, someone would come to my CONTINUES office to complain about a

>

ON PAGE 38

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A Culture For Grief

By Teeka Ballas

A man died downstairs in our apartment building the other day.

The process began with his wife yelling and running out of the apartment to the street, where dozens of neighbors came running.

The acceptance and participation of grief by the mother, the wife and the community that has been going on outside the building, as well as in the wife’s apartment for the past few days has been impressive - and beautiful.

The wife wailed as the green van pulled away with his body the day after, the man’s elderly mother fell to the ground with her grief, a young man swiftly picked her up in his arms and carried her back into the apartment, the dead man’s shoes outside on the stoop.

Red and white plastic chairs later set up on the sidewalk, where mourners gather in shifts to eat and talk, some with a photograph of the deceased man pinned to their shirts. Though the men do no seem

to cry or wail as the women do, they are equally present and supportive of the women.

Young women with head scarves watch the display from their apartment window above (watching the activity on the street by residents, even when there is not a large commotion below is common) and wipe tears away. The grief is transferable – I feel it sweep through me and I wipe away tears of my own.

I am envious of this culture that allows for women to grieve, to wail and moan, cry and sob openly. There is no suppression, no judgement - even my tears, as a stranger, a foreigner, feel acceptable and appropriate.

“...the man’s elderly mother fell to the ground with her grief, a young man swiftly picked her up in his arms and carried her back into the apartment, the dead man’s shoes outside on the stoop.”

All other times by appointment

38 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com July 2013

Fall 2013 Semester begins August 26 https://uaonline.alaska.edu/

Current job openings at Mat-Su College Faculty: • Term Assistant Professor of Physical Science Adjunct Instructors: • Basics of Biodiesel & Vegetable Oil Fuel Systems • Cold Climate ConstrucƟon • Anthropology • Philosophy

Go to www.uakjobs.com

> STEVE LOVELL CONTINUED But I too am that way. But he never blasphemed against the spirit. He never called a falsehood the truth or the truth a lie. Steve wasn’t a very religious man, but he was very spiritual. He believed that respect begat respect.

“To eulogize a person is very difficult. One can never really capture the true soul of a man. Life is ever so short and fleeting. Look at your loved ones, friends and neighbors.

Look at those next to you. See the light in them.”

To eulogize a person is very difficult. One can never really capture the true soul of a man. Life is ever so short and fleeting. Look at your loved ones, friends and neighbors. Look at those next to you. See the light in them. Cherish it, for you and I may not have them with us, forbid it all. But, it is true. We have all loved and lost.

Don’t be embittered, forgive each other. So, for the rest of us we are merely left behind for now. But I know, as sure as I am that there is a God in the heavens that someday we will all be in each other’s company, one day once again… Steve will be sorely missed and well loved.

Be Well and God Bless!

> Steve Lovell (third from right), alongside Brandon Wall, sworn in as members of Wasilla City Council

Alaska Agriculture Appreciation Day at the Farm

By Theresa Isaac Alaska Agriculture Appreciation Day at the Farm is Thursday, August 8, 2013 from Noon until 6:00 pm.

It is held at the Palmer Center for Sustainable Living (PCSL), at the Matanuska Experiment Farm in Palmer, Alaska. 1509 S. Georgeson Drive, Palmer, AK. You can explore the history of the Matanuska Colony through informational booths, as well as tractor and farm equipment displays.

There will also be an open house at the Distance Delivery Center featuring video conferencing technology to inform the community about the lifelong learning opportunities to explore agricultural, academic, general interest classes, workshops and lectures provided by local agricultural specialists and UAF. Local vendors will be showcasing their products and selling various food and non-food items. This is an opportunity to connect small and medium-sized produce growers and farmers with members of the MatSu community in order to highlight amazing locally grown products.

Public education opportunities through agricultural

demonstrations/presentations to include sheep-to-shawl, shearing, spinning & knitting demonstration; creating salves & lotions from local plants; harvesting birch bark, leaf printing; goat milking, project learning tree projects, GPS course demonstration, self-guided trail tour, remote control helium blimp photography, mini gardening and noxious weed information and so much more will be offered throughout the day.

There will be plenty of activities and games for children to encourage interest in agriculture both past and future to include; vegetable bobbing, dunk tank, gold digging, cake walk, petting zoo, and reindeer. This event includes tours of the farm, fields, community-wide demonstration gardens and historical buildings on tractor-drawn hay wagons.

Local musicians will perform during the event. Door prizes will be given. This event is put on through donations and contributions from the local community and is free of charge to the public and all who are participating.

This annual program is in alignment with the UAF - PCSL mission statement which is; providing opportunities to Alaskans to learn about Alaskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural resources and their responsible management through education, research and community service.

> Alaska Agriculture

Appreciation Day will feature everything from art to goats and much more!

Brought to you by: PEDA - Palmer Economic Development Authority

Downtown Palmer Pavilion

Every Friday 10am - 5pm

Celebrating 11 Years!

LIVE MUSIC

July 19 – John Cook July 26 – Lulu Small and Band August 2 – Paul Pike (of Medicine Dream) August 9 – Dan Mac Quintet August 16 – John Cook

May 11-Aug 17

KIDS OPEN MIC!

A special event on Aug. 9th from 2-3PM,

For More Info Call 355-9415 www.palmerchamber.org