GRAND PARADE | CARNIVAL | VENDORS
SLIPPERY SALMON OLYMPICS | 5K
TEDDY BEAR PICNIC | CLASSIC CAR SHOW COMMUNITY AWARDS | HUMAN FOOSBALL
ALASKA AIRLINES RAFFLE | & MORE!
39th Annual Bear Paw Festival
CUGIAK-EAGLE RIVER, AK
see website for up-to-date hours and information
Justin Moore to bring Country Hits to the 2024 Fair. Tickets on sale to general public Friday, May 24, 10 a.m. AKST. Palmer, Alaska, Multi-platinum hitmaker Justin Moore will bring his traditional country sound to the Alaska State Fair, performing Saturday, August 17, at 7 p.m. at the Borealis Theatre as part of the 2024 ConocoPhillips Alaska Concert Series. Tickets go on sale to the general public tomorrow, Friday, May 24, at 10 a.m. AKST on the Fair website, alaskastatefair.org.
The Arkansas-native just notched his 12th #1 with “You, Me, and Whiskey,” a smoldering duet with Priscilla Block, and released his latest single, “This Is My Dirt.” Other #1 hits over his 10+ year career includes “Point at You,” “Lettin’ The Night Roll,” “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away,” “Small Town USA” and “Till My Last Day,” as well as platinum-certified albums and singles. The Valory Music Co. recording artist has also earned multiple ACM, ACA, People’s Choice, and ACC Awards nominations, as well as an ACM Award win.
In addition to multiple festivals, headline shows and select direct-support dates, Moore has also been busy hosting his Justin Moore Podcast, interviewing guests such as Oscar award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey, and country stars Tracy Lawrence, Jon Pardi and Brantley Gilbert.
Tickets to see Moore perform go on sale starting at 10 a.m. AKST tomorrow, Friday, May 24, on the Fair website, alaskastatefair.org, joining the previously announced concerts featuring Oliver Anthony, Whiskey Myers, Mt. Joy, Kolohe Kai, Ludacris, Stephen Sanchez, NEEDTOBREATHE, Wynonna Judd, Halestorm, Theory of a Deadman and Straight No Chaser.
Concert-goers have the option to purchase concert-only tickets or tickets including Fair admission. The included admission is at a discounted price and is good for the day of the concert only. Concert tickets, including Fair admission must be purchased by August 15. Details on ticket options and pricing are available on the Fair website. Convenience fees apply to all online concert ticket purchases. Visit alaskastatefair.org for additional information on this act and upcoming concert announcements. For more information, contact Melissa Keefe, director of marketing and communications, at mk@alaskastatefair.org.
Contributed by Holly Gittlein
Are you an artist wanting to showcase and share your talent and creativity? We need you!
MY House is looking for enthusiastic artists to join our week-long 2024 Art & Nature Camp July 22-26 in Wasilla. You will be joining artist Holly Gittlein, naturalist Laurie Thorpe, and up to 15 young adults for a week of inspiration and creation.
This year’s theme is “Pure Vision – Letting the Light in”.
Daily activities will include Qi Gong, learning how the universe works, creating a community art mural at Wonderland Park in Wasilla, and exploring natural areas in the region.
Your participation will involve sharing your unique artistic talents and experiences with day campers.
If you are interested in showcasing your skills and artistic expressions via this fantastic opportunity, please contact Holly Gittlein: holly@ hollygittlein.com or call (907) 841-4174 by July 1, 2024.
Alaska Junior Theater’s Annual Benefit Garage Sale is coming back again at the end of June! Donate your gently used Items now!
Alaska Junior Theater has so much great stuff we don’t know what to do with it all! That’s where you come in—we want our amazing stuff to become your new amazing treasures!
Saturday, June 29th, July 6th, and July 13th from 8am to 4pm -- Stop by our HUGE Annual Benefit Garage Sale and check out the fantastic deals on outof-this-world stuff! We have lots of furniture, tools, party supplies, clothing, games, home goods, books and so much more. You name it, we probably have it!
Look for us in the Midtown off 36th & Latouche and follow the signs. We have a full two-car garage and six tents filled with treasures and more still being donated every day.
All proceeds go towards busing to the theater, scholarships for low-income children, and helping us to bring excellent educational (and fun!) live theatre to Alaska. Check out our new 2024-2025 “Bold, Bright & Breathtaking” Season on our website: www.akjt.org.
Alaska Junior Theater is a private, nonprofit organization that has been bringing the best in professional theater from around the world to Alaska’s young audiences since 1981. Each year, more than 35,000 students attend a variety of live performances, which share the common educational goal of “bringing learning to life.”
Contributed by Glacier Tunes
For many students, AJT’s school-time presentations are their only exposure to the performing arts.
All money raised will be used to help support our Alaska Junior Theater’s mission to bringing professional family theater productions to Anchorage. Incredible Stuff – Unbelievable deals – Amazing Cause. Don’t Miss Out on Alaska Junior Theater’s Huge Annual Garage Sale Saturday, June 29th, July 6th, and July 13th in Anchorage.
breathtaking journey to the venue. There was also a shuttle available from Palmer, courtesy of Alaska Limousine.
On Sunday, June 16th, 2024, an unforgettable musical experience took place as we brought together the beauty of nature and the power of music in a one-of-a-kind concert event. “Rhythms & Blue Ice” featured Hope Cassity along with Ken Peltier, with special guests Mark Lonsway and Adam Stewart – all set against the stunning backdrop of Matanuska Glacier. Tickets were available at www.glaciertunes.com. This historic event was unlike anything ever done before. With only 30 tickets available, this exclusive concert offered an intimate and extraordinary adventure. Each ticket included round-trip transportation to the glacier via helicopter, ensuring a
This legendary performance on the glacier was a celebration of life, strength, and the beauty of overcoming challenges. Inspired by the courage of independent artist Hope Cassity, who faced cancer head-on, we hosted a unique gathering on the majestic Matanuska Glacier.
For more information on Hope Cassity’s Alaskan tour, visit www.hopecassity.com. This event was brought to you in part by Northern Media, Sheep Mountain Lodge, Hall’s Autobody, Heli Alaska, BMW of Anchorage, and many more!
ADDRESS
June 17 @ 1:30 PM
Paleontology & Archeology
Mat-Su Learn & Inspire, LLC 1625 West Edlund Road matsulearnandinspire@gmail.com (989) 707-6671
Cost: $200
June 18 @ 5:30PM-7PM
AK Namaste Yoga
AK Namaste, 439 W ELMWOOD AVE 907namaste@gmail.com
June 19 @ 10AM-5PM
Wasilla Farmer’s Market
Every Wednesday This Summer Wonderland Park, 594 W. Nelson Ave (907) 357-1464
June 19 @ 12PM
2024 Juneteenth Celebration in the Mat-Su by MLK, Jr. Foundation Palmer Pavilion, PO Box 875754 matsumlkjr@gmail.com (907) 227-9799
June 21 @ 5PM-June 22 @ 11:59PM
ChugachFest at Arctic Valley Ski Area 28032 Arctic Valley Rd arcticvalley.org/calendar/chugachfest
June 22 @ 9AM
Miles for Meals on Wheels Fun Run
Wasilla Area Seniors Inc, 1301 S. Century Circle m4m@alaskaseniors.com (907) 206-8800 Cost: $30
June 22 @ 12PM-5PM Art on Fire Iron Pour Art Fest Valley Arts Alliance Museum of Alaska
Transportation & Industry
3800 W Museum Dr., Wasilla Cost: $10, Kids 12 & Under Free valleyartsalliance.com
June 22 @ 3PM-9PM Music in the Park Week 4 FREE Live Music by Aimamire, The Harp Twins, Cold Fusion 594 W. Nelson Ave, Wasilla musicintheparkwasilla.com
June 22 @ 6PM-7:30PM
Solstice Cacao Catch & Release
AK Namaste, 439 W ELMWOOD AVE
907namaste@gmail.com
Cost: $25-$30
June 22 @ 7PM-8PM
Free Dance Lessons!
Shufflin’ Country Style, American Legion Post 15 1550 S Mystic Cir, All Ages
June 23 @ 10PM-6PM
Sunday Brunch Market
Bleeding Heart Brewery, 562 S. Denali St. (907) 746-2421
June 23 @ 12PM-5PM
Taste of Spenard
Spenard Food Truck Carnival 1100 W Fireweed Ln, Anchorage (907) 764-2690
June 24 @ 1:30AM
Marine Biology
Mat-Su Learn & Inspire, LLC 1625 West Edlund Road matsulearnandinspire@gmail.com (989) 707-6671 Cost: $180
June 29 @ 3PM-9PM
Music in the Park Week 5 FREE
Live Music by Jerry Wessling, Black Barrel & The Bad Me 594 W. Nelson Ave, Wasilla
July 4 @ 11AM-2PM
City of Wasilla Fourth of July Parade New Route! See Website for Details. cityofwasilla.gov
July 4 @ 3PM-9PM
Music in the Park Finale Concert FREE Hope Cassity, Make A Scene Talent Show, Hope Social Club 594 W. Nelson Ave, Wasilla musicintheparkwasilla.com
July 5 @ 10PM-1:30PM
Black Barrel & The Bad Men Live at Hightower Pub Forest Fair After Party (907) 865-8193 Cost: $5
July 13 @ 10AM-5PM
Mighty Machines at the Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry 3800 W Museum Dr., Wasilla Cost: $5, Kids 12 & Under Free
July 13 @ 4:30PM
Palmer Museum Wine Walk Palmer Museum of History & Art Downtown Businesses in Palmer 723 S Valley Way, Palmer director@palmermuseum.org Cost: $70
July 14 @ 3PM-4PM
Crazy Cats Paint Class
Paint Nights with Sara 535 Parks Highway paintnightswithsara@gmail.com
Tickets available at paintwithsara.com
July 19 @ 5PM-8PM
King St. Brewing Burger & Brew O’Malley’s on the Green 3651 Omalley Rd afinley@anchoragegolfcourse.com
July 20 @ 11AM
2024 Fireweed Festival Trapper Creek Community Services Trapper Creek Park, 9971 E. TC Park Cir. tccommunityservices@yahoo.com (970) 841-6529
July 21 @ 11PM-1PM
Mud Factor Anchorage Kincaid Park, 9401 Raspberry Rd Tickets available at mudfactor.com
July 21 @ 1PM
Knik Museum Potluck Picnic & Musher Hall of Fame Induction Wasilla-Knik Historical Society
Knik Museum & Musher Hall of Fame, 10524 S Knik Goose-Bay Rd., Wasilla (907) 376-7755
July 27 @ 11AM
North Lakes Community
Council Annual BBQ
North Lakes Community Council
Boys & Girls Club
3700 E Bogard Rd, Wasilla (907) 841-8735
Contributed by David
StearnsNinilchik, AK - Salmonfest returns this August 2-4 at the Kenai Peninsula Fairgrounds and ARCHES Amphitheater. 2024 headliners include Michael Franti & Spearhead, The Devil Makes Three, Dawes, Australian sensation The Cat Empire, Kitchen Dwellers, rising folk star Hayley Heynderickx and festival favorite LowDown Brass Band. Top Alaskan acts include Super Saturated Sugar Strings, H3, Hope Social Club and Black Water Railroad Co.
Tickets, camping and the full lineup are available now at www.salmonfestalaska.org. Four stages, 60 bands, 100+ vendors, Salmon Causeway and a daily kids program so the adults can play too. Children under 6 are FREE! Headline performances will be sign language accessible with on stage translation.
Salmonfest is known for identifying up and coming artists and this year we’re excited to showcase national touring acts High Step Society, Glitterfox, Chatham Rabbits, Boot Juice and Megan Hamilton.
Salmonfest remains committed to protecting wild salmon and its habitat in Bristol Bay and throughout Alaska. Since 2015, Salmonfest has donated over $250,000 to salmon and water related initiatives. Major beneficiaries include United Tribes of Bristol Bay, ARCHES Alaska, Kachemak Bay Conservation Society, Cook Inletkeeper and the Kenai Peninsula Fairgrounds. Salmonfest also contributes smaller amounts to dozens of organizations including Bristol Bay Heritage Land Trust, Pier 1 Theater, Ninilchik Senior Center, Ninilchik Library, Ninilchik EMS, Alaska Literacy Program, Homer Youth Orchestra, Way Out Women, Sudan Clean Water Project, SKP Opioid Task Force, Stand for Salmon, Catch 49, KBBI, Fairbanks Children’s Museum, Anchorage Museum, Soldotna Chamber of Commerce and more.
Salmonfest, in partnership with ARCHES Alaska, funds and operates the Ninilchik Food Pantry, a weekly service providing food and resources to those in need on the southern Kenai Peninsula. Pickups happen Mondays at the Kenai Peninsula Fairgrounds.
O’ THE CLANS, BIRDS OF PREY, KILTED MILE, SCOTCH, MEAD AND BOURBON TASTING, TEA TENT, SALMON TOSSING, HIGHLAND COO, TUG-OF-WAR,
CELTIC MARKETPLACE AND FOOD TRUCKS, HISTORICAL DEMONSTRATIONS, SHORTBREAD BAKING COMPETITION, LIVE MUSIC, SCOTTISH STRONGMAN, HAGGIS EATING CONTEST, MIDNIGHT SUN SPURTLE CHALLENGE, CHILDREN’S EVENTS AND MORE!)
BAGPIPES, HEAVY ATHLETICS, HIGHLAND DANCE, DRUMMING, GATHERING
O’ THE CLANS, BIRDS OF PREY, KILTED MILE, SCOTCH, MEAD AND BOURBON TASTING, TEA TENT, SALMON TOSSING, HIGHLAND COO, TUG-OF-WAR, CELTIC MARKETPLACE AND FOOD TRUCKS, HISTORICAL DEMONSTRATIONS, SHORTBREAD BAKING COMPETITION, LIVE MUSIC, SCOTTISH STRONGMAN, HAGGIS EATING CONTEST, MIDNIGHT SUN SPURTLE CHALLENGE, CHILDREN’S EVENTS AND MORE!) BAGPIPES, HEAVY ATHLETICS, HIGHLAND DANCE, DRUMMING, GATHERING O’ THE CLANS, BIRDS OF PREY, KILTED MILE, SCOTCH, BAGPIPES, HEAVY ATHLETICS, HIGHLAND DANCE, DRUMMING, GATHERING
JUNE 29th & 30th SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Syr p Ally The Piper p Harp Twins FEATURING Volfgang Twins
GAMES • MEAD & SCOTCH TASTING • LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT GATES OPEN AT 8AM
OVER 150 MERCHANTS & FOOD TRUCKS!
GATHERING O’ THE CLANS - PARTICIPATING CLANS:
WALLACE MCARTHUR MACTAVISH MACKAY LENNOX GORDON FRASER DONALD SHAW MACLEOD HAY
Alaska Scottish Strongman/Strongwoman (Scottish Strength Field) Sponsored by Arctic Chiropractic
The
SATURDAY @ 11AM
SATURDAY @ 3:15PM
SUNDAY @ 11:15AM
SUNDAY @ 3PM
SATURDAY @ 12:30PM
SATURDAY @ 4:30PM
SUNDAY @ 10AM
SUNDAY @ 1:45PM
SATURDAY @ 2PM
SATURDAY @ 5PM
SUNDAY @ 12:30PM
SUNDAY @ 4:15PM
Amarissa Handy – USA: Known as "The Clydesdale," Amarissa hails from Tucson, AZ, and is a Registered Dietitian with 12 years of throwing experience. She has placed third at the Women's World Championships for the past two years and holds the record for the furthest open/Braemar stone throws in over a decade. Representing Clan Ross, Amarissa brings her favorite event, the stones, and her spirited enthusiasm to Alaska.
Elissa Van Vleck – USA: "The Haitian Sensation" from Fort Worth, TX, is a fourth-grade teacher with a decorated 10-year Highland Games career, including world records in the sheaf and spinning weight over bar events. Elissa, a former Women's World Champion, looks forward to experiencing Alaska's wildlife while representing Clan Stewart.
Emily Adams – USA: Nicknamed "Sunshine," Emily is a Product Engineer from Chicago, IL. With nine years of competition under her belt, she holds world records in the sheaf toss and USATF Masters American records in weight throws. Emily’s vibrant personality and love for the sport are sure to light up the games.
Kristine Rothwell – USA: Known on Instagram as “Kristeenie Weenie,” Kristine is a dairy goat farmer and coach from Coeur D’Alene, ID. With six years of competition and multiple top finishes at Worlds, she represents a blend of strength and charm, eager to discover Alaska's breathtaking scenery.
Meagan McKee – USA: "Megatron" from San Jose, CA, is a high school teacher and a four-time Women's World Champion. Known for her prowess in the hammer events, she is excited about the Salmon Toss and experiencing Alaska for the first time.
Hannah Linzay – USA: Known as "Swampy," Hannah is a professional strongman from Cheneyville, LA. Notable titles including IHGF Stones of Strength World Champion, Hannah is eager to take on the challenge events, bringing her formidable strength to the Highland Games for the first time in Alaska.
Sian Cooper – Australia: "She Bulk" is the reigning Australian Champion with multiple national records. This ophthalmic device specialist from South Australia is thrilled to compete in Alaska and make new connections while representing Clan Stewart.
Susie Lajoie – Canada: "Sooze" is a strength and conditioning coach from Nova Scotia, known for her Canadian records in HWFD and hammers. With her unique background and experience, Susie looks forward to cheering on fellow competitors and exploring Denali State Park.
Jamesia Milton – USA: "Mesia," a Case Manager from Duncan, OK, holds world records in the Light Weight for distance and is the 2022 amateur women’s world champion. Competing for Clan Reynolds, she is excited to witness Alaska's stunning views and vibrant culture.
Jessica Bridenthal – USA: Jess, from Hillsdale, MI, is an associate head coach and a former world champion. She has a strong presence in the Highland Games community and is looking forward to competing and exploring Alaska.
visit us at the games! visit us at the games!
Get ready for the Tartan Tourney, a thrilling golf event with a Scottish twist, on Saturday, July 27 at Settlers Bay Golf Course. Join 30 teams of four golfers each as they compete amid the sounds of bagpipes and drums, enjoy Scotch tastings, and tackle Scottish-themed challenges. Don’t miss the Butterscotch Mulligans, adding a fun twist to the game. After the tournament, enjoy a traditional Ceilidh with Scottish cuisine and entertainment. alaskanscottish.org/tartantourney
Alaska Animal Advocates
www.alaskaanimaladvocates.com (907) 841-3173
Alaska Animal Advocates is a non-profit group of dedicated volunteers who are devoted to enriching the lives of companion animals in Alaska.
In order to do this, we will place homeless pets in loving environment, adress medicals concerns, spay or neuter, microchip, vaccinate, and offer training as is needed.
We believe that every animal deserves a loving home, for his/her entire life and Alaska Animal Advocates will provide the resources to make this happen. In order to make this mission possible, we need the help of volunteers and foster homes.
www.alaskabvi.org (907) 771-4322
The Alaska Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired provides blind and low vision Alaskans tools to eliminate vision loss as a barrier to employment, independent living, and community participation. It is the only statewide training and resource center for vision rehabilitation. In the Mat-Su Valley we sponsor two monthly support groups for socialization and informational activities, titled “Living Well with Vision Loss”, meeting at the Wasilla Area Seniors and the Palmer Senior Center. Low Vision Clinics demonstrating low vision devices and home assessment visits for independent living are offered to those who qualify and who have uncorrectable vision loss.
Alaska Community Development Corporation
www.alaskacdc.org (907) 746-5680
Alaska Community Development Corporation is a nonprofit agency located in Palmer, AK. Our focus is housing assistance for low-income households in Alaska. We offer housing assistance to the Matanuska-Susitna Borough and most areas in Southcentral Alaska and to rural areas in Southeast and Southwest Alaska. Our housing assistance includes home weatherization; housing accessibility improvements for seniors and disabled households; & homeownership assistance including home purchase assistance, home building assistance and home loan packaging.
Our housing assistance helps to keep people safely in their homes and helps low-income households move into home ownership. All assistance is free to eligible households.
Connect Mat-Su
www.connectmatsu.org (907) 373-2628
Connect Mat-Su is a program of the Mat-Su Health Foundation that provides access to information and referrals specific to the local community.
Assistance is available in the areas of care, education, food, health, housing, legal services, social connection, transportation, work, and more. It is a network that is both a physical and virtual resource center linking residents to the things needed to thrive physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally.
Connect Palmer, Inc. www.connectpalmer.org (907) 746-9675
Connect Palmer is a Christ Centered Training Center and Housing for Women, located in downtown Palmer.
Connect Palmer’s two primary programs are God’s Work Desgin, and LIFE Connect. We also have Sarah’s House, a safe and caring place for ladies without homes to live while they participate in our back to work and life skills programs.
We also offer different community assistance programs, such as The Locker, to provide personal care and basic house hold cleaning items, and Scarlet Tapestries which offers basic sewing skills instructions. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
Matanuska Electric Association Charitable Foundation (MEACF) www.mea.coop/mea-in-the-community meacontact@mea.coop (907) 761-9300
$1.6 million and counting! This is the financial impact MEA’s members have had in our community since 2011 when MEACF introduced Operation Roundup. To scratch the surface on those impacted by your generosity are our seniors, recreation, local agriculture, family services, food pantries, and everything in between. We want to continue adding to this lost, so if you know of an organization interested in applying for the MEACF grant and has a specific project in mind, please check us out online for the application process - including financials. Grants are capped at $10,000 and are approved at each quarterly MEACF meeting. Individual grant requests are now completed through Connect MatSu; individual grant requests regarding a disability can contact Access Alaska.
Mat-Su Health Foundation www.healthymatsu.org (907) 352-286³
The mission of the Mat-Su Health Foundation is to improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in the Mat-Su. The tools we use include grantmaking, convening of local partners, and policy change.
We have generated significant improvements in systems that support the health of Mat-Su residents in areas such as behavioral health, child welfare, crisis response, community connections, workforce development, transportation, housing, and senior services. Visit www.healthymatsu.org to learn about scholarship and funding opportunities.
MYHouse Mat-Su Youth Housing
www.myhousematsu.org (907) 373-4357
MYHouse is a homeless youth drop in center with two for-profit businesses that train and employ homeless youth. Gathering Grounds Cafe is a coffee shop with homemade soups, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods.
SteamDriven is a trendy thrift shop featuring Steampunk items made from repurposed donations by our youth designers. Fiend2Clean and Young People in Recovery offer support for substance abuse recovery with activities and events. We offer transitional housing for qualified 18-24 year olds, outreach services to connect homeless youth, organizations and groups to
services, and access to public health and job education services on site.
Onward & Upward
www.onwardandupward.org
email: info@onwardandupward.org (907) 953-5360
Onward & Upward is an evidence-based, accredited, 501c3 nonprofit organization based in the Mat-Su Valley. Our mission is to establish a culture of “One Health” in Alaska through evidence-based action. We accomplish this by engaging our students in adventurous, inspiring, meaningful, and empowering experiences with varying degrees of challenge methodically designed for positive growth and development.
We offer a diverse range of course offerings from open enrollment summer adventure courses, professional development courses, to year-round after-school and homeschool opportunities. Check out our website at www.onwardandupward.org for more information!
Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Community Program (907) 631-8591
www.specialolympicsalaska.org
The Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Community Program is an accredited program of Special Olympics Alaska, Inc., a 501c (3) nonprofit whose mission is to provide year-round sports training and competition to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In the Mat-Su Valley, there are 137 active Special Olympics Alaska athletes and 56 Unified partners (non-disabled peers) that train and compete in 12 sports year-round. There is no cost to participate for qualifying athletes. For more information on the Mat-Su Community Program, please call 907-631-8591, email matsu@ specialolympicsalaska.org or visit us on social media@soakmatsu.
United Way of Mat-Su (907) 373-5807
www.unitedwaymatsu.org
550 S Alaska St., Suite 205 Palmer AK
United Way of Mat-Su strives to make our community a place where all individuals can thrive. We focus on the building blocks of education, financial stability, health for all, providing resource assistance, community collaboration and advocacy, outreach and engagement across the health, human, and social services spectrum.
Early childhood and family support, youth programs, grants for non-profits, and disaster relief; Mat-Su Valley Resource Guide; volunteer opportunities; Stuff the Bus; Project Homeless Connect, and more. Call for more information on Thrive Mat-Su Mat-Su Coalition, Early Childhood Partnership, Youth 360, and the Alaska Wellness Coalition.
Valley Charities, Inc.
www.valleycharities.org
400 N Yenlo Street, Wasilla AK
Valley Charities, Inc: Connecting those who need help with the help they need. Valley Charities, Inc. (VCI) oversees a locally owned non- profit Thrift Store, turn-A-leaf.
VCI Re-entry Program assists ex-offenders to become successful citizens helping to stabilize a home, work, personal needs, and basic council. Our Homelessness
Prevention Program provides financial assistance creating housing stability for Valley residents.
Lastly, our Durable Medical Equipment Lending Program supports our residents with short term equipment loans to help with their recovery from illness and injuries.
Housing Assistance: 907-354-4660; Re-Entry Assistance: 907-232-7125; Durable Medical Equipment Lending Program, see our website: valleycharities.org
Valley Arts Alliance www.valleyartsalliance.com
Valley Arts Alliance, bringing the community together through the arts... 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. Join us at our informal weekly meetings, every Thursday @ 11 at Sophia’s Cafe, 9191 E Frontage Road, Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. Check out our archives at www. valleyartsalliance.com
Valley Recycling Valley Community for Recycling Solutions www.valleyrecycling.org (907) 745-5544
REFUSE, REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE! Drop off your clean, separated recycling Mon-Fri 9:30 to 5 and Saturday 8 to 5. We accept cardboard boxes, aluminum beverage cans, magazines, this newspaper and more!
We are located at 9465 E Chanlyut Circle, near the MSB Central Landfill, just past the MSB Animal Care Shelter. Follow the smells. And follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Become a member, visit our classroom, schedule a field trip, find out more about volunteer opportunities and ways you can make a difference in your community. #dontfeedthelandfills. Go to our website for more details.
Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc.
www.wasillaseniors.com (907) 376-3104
Wasilla Area Seniors mission is to provide for the lives of seniors living in the Matanuska Susistna Valley and to enable seniors to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.
WASI provides services, resources, and activities to promote health and independence such as Club50 Fitness Center. Club50 is for individuals 50 years of age and older and provides clean, accessible exercise equipment and offers a variety of FREE fitness classes for seniors of all skill and mobility levels.
For more information, give us a call or find us on Facebook.
Remember your liberty and community, Don’t forget what it means to be an, American and Alaskan,
As you watch, north of Palmer, Trucks and cars flying off, Over the cliff face, Hear freedom rev, On your marks, Get set, Drive.
The raven flies by, not to divide, but to bring together the gulls and eagles, doves and pigeons, whatever the season, even murderous crows know the reason, That ravens lead to feeding,.. It’s God’s provision seeding the beady eyes. Sowing knowledge for the wise
Contributed by Jeffrey Winke
a shadow’s shadow sound of a freight plane at deep night
wild yelp wakes me from a ragged dream
sky crack pushes white light from thunder’s belly
resuscitation implication of breaths best forgotten and forgiven
blown ghost wisps the spent dandelion will perpetuate
I was very young, remembering Mama bake, For every need she deemed apropos, She baked a Angel cake.
Of our Kansas family, only she who might, Make this fickle cake to rise And have it turn out right.
With the War upon them, food supplies supplies were poor. When Mama’s meager coupons dwindled, She’d run to my aunt’s door.
Each ingredient she used had to be just so And too, the temperature, humidity and altitude Must cooperate, you know.
She’d beat the eggs whites with skilled and loving care. Then add the flour, sugar and salt, And a bit of vanilla, there.
Into the “holy” pan the thick, white batter went.
Why a hole was there, she would say, “My dear, it has to vent.”
As it baked, its blissful aroma filled our lungs. This soft cake of sweet, sticky sponge, A favorite on our tongues.
As kids, we were grateful for this cake on which we chowed. But, not the effort that it took to make, Nor time or cost allowed.
Yet, for every occasion deemed exceptional, Mama baked for those she loved, Whether to celebrate or console, With a heavenly Angel cake.
Hello everybody! Welcome to my column.
Each month I will draw a Major Arcana tarot card which represents one of many possible paths to follow. Major Arcana cards represent the archetypical themes of life, presenting the overall possible experiences.
Deck: Mermaid Tarot By Leeza Robertson Illustrations by Julie Card: #20 Judgement Judgement; It is a voice of lies. The voice can take many forms, sound like many different people over a lifetime, and turn into our own belief system. Where does it come from? By observing the words of others around us and in turn, absorbing a meaning we think applies. Living by this code of what we think others view as acceptable can be crucial and life preserving.
When we feel as though we don’t live up to these “acceptable” standards we are capable of completely drowning in a wave of shame, guilt, and fear; sentenced by the false Judge presiding over our brains. Yes, discernment is absolutely important; but when does the line between Judgement and Discernment start to fade and cross from healthy decisions into plain cruelty, swallowing up our sanity and torturing our minds?
I know that I can judge myself incredibly harshly. I set a perfectionist level of being and expect myself to achieve it at every moment. It’s as though I am in constant competition with myself, and with the world. While I excel at helping others to understand that this is unfair to themselves and that they deserve the peace of understanding that doing our best changes from moment to moment, I will then turn around and berate myself for a mistake or not feeling as though I achieved the highest level of perfection for that moment. It’s exhausting. Thankfully, this path has brought me to the breaking point of deciding “enough is enough!”
Judgement can come so easily and so fast. It even sneaks into our thoughts hiding in the form of a single word, “should.” Should implies that there is a certain set of ideas that we are required to follow, and required to live by. Should says that what we are feeling, thinking, or doing in the moment is wrong and goes against a natural state of being safe. If we were to break it down simplistically; in the end, what happened was, a decision was made, acted upon and a result was produced. Switching from something so pinpointed on “correctness” to something much more open, such as “could” re-opens the possibilities of any single moment. Our emotional belief of what that result means and how it affects us gives a way to either berate or learn; live by a voice meant to keep you feeling trapped, or set yourself free and choose to offer yourself grace while learning to understand what was being felt. What lessons suddenly arrived when the awareness appeared? How can this information be applied to our daily peace?
We get to decide if we are going to do something different than the previous moment before and produce a result that we feel be[er about. Time is constantly flowing with every breath and every decision we make. Sometimes, old coping habits come back around and we suddenly catch ourselves in the midst of the deep corners of our minds(egos). We slide right back to our safety
zone and we process. Even when we feel we are not “being productive” by returning to comfort, we absolutely are. Sometimes these habits appear for the sole purpose of having us slow down and evaluate where we are in this time. It allows us to see and focus on where we were the last time we slid into survival mode to see how far we have come since then. It gives us time to be aware of how we are actually feeling. In a cloud of despair, I had such a moment of awareness. It was a tremendous amount of clarity in a time where I sat still and connected the web of many experiences with such understanding of personal-projection behaviors, individual and shared habitual pa[erns, focused “flashlight mindset”, acceptance, and mirroring concepts. Seeing these webs connect led to tears as I realized how severely I was berating myself over the fact that I had turned to the comfort of hiding. In that moment I released the cruel observer in my mind, and just like a pressure valve, I physically felt my energy exhale.
The harsh reality of judgement happens to all of us. It just does. Whether we are judging other people or judging ourselves, the most important thing is to be open to the awareness of when it is happening. We can then decide to embrace all the remarkable things we’ve overcome and choose not to steal our own joy from moment to moment.
Release the pressure from yourself, and just show up for your part, whatever that means.
Contributed by Kathryn
Swartz, Vice Chair, Boardof the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation
at the Palmer Ale House
Come join us at the Palmer Alehouse for an unforgettable evening with singer-songwriter Tim Easton!
This is his only show in the Mat-Su. Enjoy great music while supporting the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, have fun, and give back to our community.
Don’t miss out on this special event!
All proceeds will support the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation, get your tickets now: $10 - Adult $5 - 12 and under.
American songwriter Tim Easton was born on the Canadian border in upstate New York and spent his formative years living in Tokyo, Japan and Akron, Ohio. Traveling early and often, he learned the ways of the road and rails and spent 7 years as a bonafide troubadour, making his way around Europe, playing the streets and clubs, living in Paris, London, Madrid, Prague, Dublin, and wherever he laid his hat. It was this period of time when he developed his songwriting style - folk based storytelling and personal traveling tales, often peppered with bold confessions or “tell it as it is” reality. Rolling Stone Magazine praised him as “having a novelist’s sense of humanity.” He currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee.
The Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation is a 501c3 organization located in Palmer Alaska that has a mission to be the trails and parks resource for a healthy community in the Mat-Su. Since 2014, Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation (MSTPF) has provided grant funding to various non-profits and agencies, resulting in over 85 miles of new trails and 12 parks, the purchase of essential trail grooming and maintenance equipment, trail markers, and interpretive signage, and necessary trailhead amenities like bathrooms. In addition to our grantmaking program, MSTPF works with land managers, including AK State Parks, to apply, manage, and provide matching funding for federal and foundation grants. These projects allow us to leverage our community donations to facilitate million-dollar investments in the Mat-Su, as with the Curry Ridge Connector Project, or the preservation of Independence Mine State Historical Park. To date, our total grantmaking investment in the Mat-Su Borough has been just over $2,350,000. With your help, MSTPF plans to make an additional $2.5 million investment over the next
Contributed
five years in developing sustainable trails and regional parks in the Mat-Su Borough.
**We are looking for donations for raffle and/or auction items to raise funds during the event. If you or your business would like to donate, please contact us!
Name: Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation
Non-Profit Status: 501(c)(3)
IRS EIN #: 90-0699180
Physical Address: 642 S. Alaska St., Suite 215, Palmer, AK 99645
Mailing Address: PO Box 652, Palmer, AK 99645
Telephone: 907-746-8757
Website: www.matsutrails.org
Email: info@matsutrails.org
Bradford
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From the cozy corners of a living room filled with music to the stages of prison ministry, the journey of an Alaskan musician, Suzanne Walker, is as captivating as the landscapes that surround her. Inspired by her father’s guitar strumming, Suzanne found her calling in music early on, a medium that not only shaped her identity but also offered a refuge from the complexities of her upbringing.
“My journey with music started early on in life watching my dad perform his own originals and covers on acoustic guitar in our living room,” Suzanne recalls. The magical aura of music that filled her home became her sanctuary and inspiration, leading her down a path of creativity and self-expression. Despite the challenging dynamics at home marked by her father’s volatile moods, it was music that brought out his softer side, something that resonated deeply with her.
The move to Anchorage at the age of four introduced her to the harsh Alaskan winters, a backdrop that would later heavily influence her music and creative process. These long, isolating seasons drove her to write poetry and explore music more seriously, finding solace in the expressive power of lyrics and melodies.
Growing up in a strict Jehovah’s Witness household presented its own set of challenges, from the isolation of homeschooling to the lack of freedom to explore her own interests outside the church’s rigorous demands. Music became her escape, a way to cope with the alienation and depression that marked her adolescence. “I completely immersed myself in all different kinds of music to survive the pain of those years,” she explains. Her teenage years brought a phase of rebellion where punk shows and mosh pits became her release, a stark contrast to her life within a restrictive religious community. This period of rebellion was crucial in forging her identity and honing her voice as an artist.
Transitioning from small-scale productions to working on her first feature film was a monumental step fueled by her long-standing passion for filmmaking and storytelling, something that she had cultivated from an early age with her brother. “We would play pretend, dress up in costumes, sword fight, and something funny or cool would happen, and we would break character to proclaim, ‘That should be in a movie!’”
The challenges of being an artist in Alaska are as vast as the state itself. The isolation can amplify the difficulties of networking and gaining exposure, but it also offers a unique backdrop that significantly enhances the artistic
appeal of her work. Her departure from the Jehovah’s Witness religion, although painful due to the loss of family and friends, marked a new chapter in her life, one focused on personal healing and helping others through her music.
One of her most memorable experiences came from performing with a worship team for a prison ministry program, an opportunity that allowed her to share her spiritual journey and connect with an audience on a profoundly personal level. “It was undeniably the most incredible and impactful thing I’ve ever done,” Suzanne reflects on her time singing and speaking to inmates.
When asked about the Alaskan music scene, she notes a shift from her active participation to a more observant role, wishing for more vibrancy reminiscent of her early days going to local punk shows. Her vision for the future includes welcoming more big-name artists to Alaska, enriching the local cultural scene.
For aspiring musicians, her advice is straightforward and empowering: “Just go for it.” Suzanne encourages embracing the creative process without concern for perfection, using personal experiences as fuel for artistic expression. “Music is a feeling, a moment, and a snapshot of whatever YOU choose,” she advises, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and personal fulfillment in music.
Suzanne Walker’s story is not just about overcoming personal and professional obstacles, but about how art and community can lead to profound personal growth and healing. Through her music, she continues to weave the narrative of her life, one that is deeply intertwined with the rugged beauty and resilience of Alaska.
Contributed by: BRADFORD JACKSON
FILMS - A local Alaskan theatrical production company
Contributed by Rob Woolsey
PSA! Something special is happening in Anchorage over these last few months. The blues is….well it’s happening again. but first allow me to reminisce and romanticize that smoky blue neon sweat factory that colored the ears of my youth. Many moons ago, a small little club in Spenard made a huge cultural splash that would ripple over years…The ripples, though small still make minuscule reminiscent wakes today. Blues Central, or Chefs Inn was THE place for the blues in Alaska. When I was a kid, I’d sneak in the back-alley door to play. When I was finally 21, I showed up to every single Sunday Blues Jam. I was exposed to some incredible talent that has shaped and molded me into the musician I am today. Soulman Sam, Armand and the real deal, bucket of bolts, Big Mitch, Mike MacDonald, Joey Fender, Gary Sloan, Full Tilt, James Pruitt…. These are just a few of the monstrosities of talent that
allowed me to slowly glean and eventually reap the blues prowess that they offered. There were a lot of us little punk kids trying to get in on that scene… Heck, there was a lot of people who wanted to be part of it.
Back to it…. It’s happening again and ironically, it’s in the building right next-door to the now torn down blue Central. Ridiculous amounts of old and new school talent are flocking to The Blue Note AK on Sunday nights. There is a crop of new highschool kids from South High coming down and killing it! Champagne, Joey Fender, Mike Merrill, Tom Bergalski…. So good to have a stage worthy of these legends and one to cultivate the younger generation. It’s definitely a BLUES jam, but there is never a moment where there aren’t nuggets of gold coming off of that stage. Even the young inexperienced players get to play with seasoned musicians with years of gigs in their back pockets. 10 minutes on that stage is better than wood shedding at home for six hours. it does something to you… The crowd, the pressure to perform, the beat red blanket of embarrassment that covers over you when you hit a bad note makes you tell yourself “I’ll never do that again”.
I feel a cultural shift… Or at least something happening that reminds me of those days. Maybe it’s the music, maybe it’s seeing these young Horn players come out and grow in their craft, maybe it’s the dad who brings his 19-year-old kid to play drums smile ear to ear while he sits in the audience sipping a beer. Maybe it’s the music of nostalgic musicians pouring their hearts back into the past while living in the present. Whatever it is it’s happening again, and I love it.
If you sing, bass, harp, spit lyrics, guitar, drum…. yo…. Bring it! Hosted by The Rebel Blues Band. Starts at 6pm. If you play…. come. if you don’t… Come. Get saturated in this new baptismal scene that’s happening! Kids can jam with their parents’ present. Every Sunday at the Billiard Pallace/Blue Note Ak at 6pm. Come see the scene.
Saturday, June 22 — 12 until 5
Admission $10 children under 12 admitted free
