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9th AnnuAl EvEnt!
MID-MAR 2019
You’re Invited!
All Around PAlmEr!
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MID-MAR 2019
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FAITH:
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 Design, and LIFE Connect. We also have Sarah’s House, which 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 assistant programs, such as The Locker, to provide personal care and basic house hold cleaning items and Scarlet Tapestries which offers basic sewing skills instruction. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
OTHER Mat-Su Health Services, Inc. www.mshsak.org (907) 376-2411 Dedicated to improving the health of our community, one person at a time – through affordable medical, dental and behavioral health care.The clinic is a Federally qualified Health Care Center and we accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most other third-party insurances. For those who qualify, there is a sliding scale payment, based on household income. We offer early morning and evening appointments appointment. You can also contact our 24/7 behavioral crisis intervention line by calling the main number: 376-2411.
PETS & ANIMALS:
MID-MAR 2019
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 environments, address medical 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.
FAMILIES & CHILDREN:
ARTS:
Denali Family Services
Valley Arts Alliance
291 East Swanson Ave. Wasilla, AK 907-222-2331 or eolivares@denalifs.org Denali Family Services provides therapeutic foster care to Alaskan children with mental health needs. If you are committed to working with a team, receiving training and implementing positive interventions to schoolage children and teens, we need your talents and skills. We are in search of professional, therapeutic foster parents who are willing to make a commitment to the children of Alaska by providing a stable home environment. For more information, please call or email our Foster Care Recruiter, Ernestina D. Olivares, at 907-222-2331 or eolivares@denalifs.org.
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 www.ValleyArtsAlliance.com
Mat-Su Health Foundation
CONSERVATION:
healthymatsu.org (907) 352-2863 The Mat-Su Health Foundation offers financial and strategic support to well-managed 501(c)(3) organizations that offer services and practical solutions to significant health-related problems impacting the citizens of the Mat-Su Borough. The foundation also offers academic and vocational scholarships to Mat-Su residents who wish to pursue health and wellness related careers.
COMMUNITY: Matanuska Electric Association (MEA) Charitable Foundation www.mea.coop/mea-in-the-community/round-up meacontact@mea.coop 907-761-9300 Since 2011, the MEA Charitable Foundation has given grants to fund projects impacting libraries, playgrounds, seniors, veterans, recycling, at-risk youth, and much more. In 2018, MEA Charitable Foundation reached over $1,000,000 in contributions to the community with Operation RoundUp® Program! Organizational grants are capped at $10,000, individual grants are capped at $2,500. Please remember to check our website for requirements and submit your completed application — including financials!
Valley Community for Recycling Solutions www.valleyrecycling.org (907) 745-5544 RECYCLING: Be part of the solution. DROP OFF: The community recycling center is located at 9465 E Chanlyut Circle, next to the MSB Animal Shelter at the Central Landfill. Follow the smells. HOURS: Drive through drop-off is open Tues – Fri 10:30 to 6:00 and Sat 10:00 to 3:30. Recycle cardboard, aluminum cans, magazines, this newspaper and more. Remember to REDUCE, REUSE, and then RECYCLE! ONLINE: Visit our website for more details, follow us on Facebook. To learn more, visit our classroom. Volunteer opportunities available. Make a difference in your community!
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES: Mat-Su Regional Adult Basic Education (Nine Star) MatsuAdultEd@ninestar.com (907) 373-7833 Mat-Su ABE provides basic education in math, language arts and English as a second language (ESL), aiming to raise student skills beyond the high-school level in order to pass tests like the GED, enter training programs or college, and advance on the job. Enrollment is open to all adult residents of Alaska, year-round. Youth Employment for ages 16-24 not in school -- get a job, keep a job, advance on the job. Nine Star 300 N Willow 373-3006 (in the MYHouse building)
FAITH: Valley Interfaith Action (VIA) www.valleyinterfaithaction.org (907) 230-1006 To address quality of life issues for all residents of the Mat-Su Borough, utilizing the faith values of our members, developing community-wide interest and mobilization around quality of life issues. Through training, leaders address community problems by providing forums for discussion, researching alternative solutions, and working as facilitators with residents and leaders for institutional change.
HOMELESS YOUTH: Mat-Su Youth Housing (MY HOUSE) myhousematsu.org (907) 373-4357 MY House 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 NineStar job/education services on site.
SOCIAL ADVOCACY: Wasilla Homeless-Committee www.wasillahomeless-committee.org (907) 521-2949 Wasilla Homeless-Committee is a 100% volunteer organization funded by private donations and regular fundraising events. Our sole purpose is to assist the homeless, those at risk of homelessness, and others who do not meet the criteria for help that is required by other advocacy agencies in the valley. Wasilla Homeless-Committee provides case management, housing search assistance, move in assistance, job search assistance, clothing, furniture, help with transportation, and resource guidance for homeless and disenfranchised in the Mat-Su Valley. Visit our website for application, or call 907521-2949. Find us on Facebook facebook.com/ wasillahomelesscommitteepage
BIRDS IN FLIGHT March 8 - April 6, 2019 – 6AM Vagabond Blues Coffee House 642 S Alaska St, Palmer Facebook: Art by Karen Crandall (907) 354-3331 CAR-DBOARD CITY T-SHIRT & POSTER DESIGN CONTEST Contest: Mar 15 - May 15, 2019 Family Promise Mat-Su www.familypromisematsu.org
THIRD THURSDAYS WITH EXTENSION Mar 21, Apr 18 – 6 PM UAF Cooperative Extension Service Matanuska Experiment Farm, Kerttula Hall, room 208 1509 Georgeson Rd, Palmer (907) 745-3360 uaf.edu/ces/districts/matsu/
PICK UP FREE PAINT OR DROP OFF UNWANTED HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS Mar. 16,20,23,27,30; Apr. 3,6, 10,13,17,20,24,27 – 10 AM Mat-Su Borough Central Landfill 1201 N 49th State St, Palmer (907) 861-7600
DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID 3/22/2019 - 4/14/2019 Fridays & Saturdays @7PM, Sundays @2PM Valley Performing Arts The Glenn Massay Theater 8295 E College Dr. Palmer Tickets: $23 Students/Seniors, $25 Regular Admission www.valleyperformingarts.org
NORTHERN LIGHTS VALLEY KNITTERS GUILD MEETING 03/16/19 & 04/20/19 – 1 PM Northern Lights Valley Knitters Guild Meridian Point Building 865 N Seward Meridian Pkwy, Wasilla (907) 795-9275
SHAKE RATTLE AND ROLL 50’S EVENING 03/23/2019 – 5 PM Matsu Republican Women’s Club Evangelo’s Restaurant 2530 E Parks Hwy, Wasilla matsurepublicanwomensclub. org
MARCH MEMBERSHIP MEETING - ‘HOW TO BUILD A ROCK GARDEN’ 03/16/2019 – 2 PM Alaska Rock Garden Society Eagle River Elks Lodge 17111 N Eagle River Loop Rd, Eagle River (907) 354-5660 akrockgardensociety.org
BOOM TOWN VS RAGE CITY ALL STARS 03/23/2019 - 6 PM Boom Town Roller Derby Menard Sports Center 1001 S Clapp St, Wasilla Adults: $12 Senior/Military: $10 Children 6+: $5 Children 5 & under FREE boomtownrollerderby.org www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/3880268
CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY WITH BEER & HYMNS 04/17/19 – 5-8 PM Five Loaves, Two Fish Kitchen & Mat-Su Food Bank Extreme Fun Center 3501 E Old Matanuska Rd. Wasilla
DOWNSIZE AND DECLUTTER FOR SPRING 03/26/2019 – 10:30 AM Primrose Retirement and Alzheimer’s Resources of Alaska Primrose Retirement Comm. 889 Elkhorn Dr, Wasilla (907) 373-5500 primroseretirment.com GARDEN DESIGN (PERMACULTURE) 03/28/2019 – 6:30 PM Seeds and Soil-Organics The Annex 247 S Alaska St, Palmer seedsandsoilorganics.com MEADOW LAKES HEALTH FAIR 03/30/2019 – 8 AM - 12 PM Meadow Lake Seniors, Inc. Meadow Lakes Elem. School 1741 Pittman Rd. Wasilla (907) 357-3999 SPRING FOR THE BIRDS! PRIME RIB DINNER & AUCTION 03/30/2019 – 5 PM Alaska Wild Bird Rehab. Center Palmer Moose Lodge 1136 S Cobb St, Palmer (907) 355-4123 www.akwildbird.org Sans Bar Anchorage 03/30/2019 – 6 PM Recover Alaska Uncle Leroy’s Coffee 701 W 36th Ave #18, Anchorage (907) 868-1287 www.facebook.com/ events/2260175754265603/ BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE, MAT-SU 03/31/2019 – 4 PM Big Brothers Big Sisters Alaska North Bowl Wasilla 3250 E Palmer-Wasilla Hwy, Wasilla (907) 376-4617 SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH April 1-30, 2019 MY House Mat-Su (907) 373-4357
AK TUESDAY NIGHT FIGHTS 04/02/2019 7:45 PM - 10 PM doors open at 6:45 PM AK Entertainment, LLC Menard Sports Center 1001 S Clapp St. Wasilla Tickets: $18 Regular Admission, $30 Table Seats (907) 232-3727 aktuesdaynightfights.com SOIL-REGENERATIVE 04/04/2019 – 6:30 PM Seeds and Soil - ORGANICS Wasilla Museum & Visitor Center 323 N Main St. Wasilla seedsandsoilorganics. com/2019/01/17/arcticpermaculture-wasilla-classseries/ COMMUNITY CONVERSATION & ANNUAL MEETING 04/06/2019 – 2 PM Big Cabbage Radio Turkey Red Meeting Room 550 South Alaska Street, Palmer (907) 745-8951 radiofreepalmer.org 12TH ANNUAL DINNER AUCTION 04/06/19 – 5 PM Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School Menard Sports Center 1001 S Clapp St. Wasilla $75 Per Person Tickets Online or By Calling the School (907) 376-0883 www.olvwasilla.com CONSIGN49 SPRING EVENT April 11-13, 2019 – 9 AM - 8 PM & April 14 – 9 AM - 5 PM Consign49 Raven Hall, at the Alaska State Fairgrounds 2075 Glenn Hwy, Palmer FREE Parking and Admission VALLEY CRITIQUE GROUP 04/11/2019 – 5 PM Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Wasilla Public Library alaska.scbwi.org
SOIL-REGENERATIVE 04/11/2019 – 6:30 PM Seeds and Soil - ORGANICS The Annex 247 S Alaska St. Palmer seedsandsoilorganics.com CYSTIC FIBROSIS ARTS & CRAFTS BAZAAR 04/13/19 – 10 AM Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Mat-Su Career & Tech High School (907) 841-6892 www.facebook.com/ CysticFibrosisBazaar Grand Opening Aurora Gardens 04/15/2019 Aurora Gardens 4280 N Ryder Drive, Palmer (907) 746-2060 THE HUNTING GROUND VIEWING 04/17/2019 – 3 PM MY House Gathering Grounds Cafe 300 Willow St, Wasilla (907) 373-4357 ALASKA RAILROAD EASTER TRAIN 04/20/2019 – 10 AM There is also an afternoon departure 3:00 - 5:30 PM The Alaska Railroad Anchorage Historic Depot 411 W 1st Ave, Anchorage (800) 544-0552 alaskarailroad.com/ride-atrain/event-trains/easter-train NORTHERN LIGHTS VALLEY KNITTERS GUILD MEETING 04/20/2019 – 1 PM Northern Lights Valley Knitters Guild Meridian Point Building 865 North Seward Meridian Pkwy, Wasilla MID-MAR 2019
FREE TAX PREPARATION 03/20/2019 - 10 AM Alaska Tax Lady 1301 W Parks Hwy, Wasilla (907) 373-8829 www.alaskataxlady.com
4TH MONDAY RECITAL & TALK: MATCH READING ABILITY TO VARIED MUSIC 03/25/2019 – 7 PM 4th Monday of the Month Hitchcock Piano Studio 950 Edinborough Dr. Palmer (907) 745-3134 salgreek@mtaonline.net
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
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Community Events
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Theatre Contributed by Nick McDermott 03/22/19 – 7:30 PM Alaska Junior Theater Atwood Concert Hall 621 West 6th Avenue, Anchorage Tickets Are $14 to $35 Available Through 263-ARTS www.CenterTix.com www.akjt.org One of Anchorage’s favorite ‘America’s Got Talent’ companies returns with a New Electroluminescent Adventure.
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“In Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey,” Marvin the Mouse wants to be
popular. Constantly bullied by the ‘cool’ rats, Marvin retreats into his science books and a world of fantasy. He embarks on a space adventure to the moon on his homemade rocket, where he meets many misfit creatures, learns of infinite peril, and sees outof-this-world visuals. His journey of self-acceptance is portrayed with both humor and honesty as he teaches us the important message that being different is ‘cool.’
as a semifinalist on the 2012 season of ‘America’s Got Talent.’ This will be Lightwire’s fourth time in Alaska after performing A Very Electric Christmas in 2017, Dino-Light in 2016, and The Ugly Duckling in 2013.
Lightwire Theater shows Marvin’s story in complete darkness through the use of their pioneering lighting effects and puppetry. The Company got its break
Lightwire Theater Company will also be the featured artist for the 2019 Alaska Junior Theater Annual Benefit Dinner on Saturday, March 23rd.
The cast of “Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey” will host free demonstration and craft event at the Loussac Public Library (3600 Denali Street), on Wednesday March 20th, at 4:00 PM.
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Arts Artist Karen Crandall is showing her paintings at Vagabond Blues Coffeehouse. Vagabond Blues is located on Alaska St. in Downtown Palmer. Hours are 6AM-8PM. THE SHOW BEGINS MARCH 8TH-APRIL 6TH
Call (907) 892-7416 for purchasing any pieces.
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COME AND ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF BIRDS IN FLIGHT IN ORIGINAL ART FORMS!
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Music
Contributed by Josh Fryfogle On April 20th, the folks at Trich Productions, with the help of a laundry list of cannabis and noncannabis companies, will coming together for the 2nd Annual 4/20 Green Spring Concert & Expo at the Settler’s Bay Golf Course. A veritable “who’s who” of this newly legalized industry will be taking to the green at Settler’s Bay golf course, for a day of music, community and celebration.
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More than an industry exposition, the 4/20 Green Spring event is a public gathering at a safe and friendly venue, where all are welcome. Whether you work in the industry, or you are a family or friend of someone who does - even if you just support the cause - this event is a great way to spend your Saturday! The sponsors for this event are many: Green Jar is the Premier sponsor of the event, and is also a premier retailer in the Mat-Su Valley. Located just off of the Parks Hwy in Wasilla, on Blue Lupine Dr., Green Jar is an awardwinning retail store many times over! Cultivating an image of the emerging cannabis industry that is clean and contemporary, Green Jar contributes constantly to the new-found normalcy of cannabis in our local economy. It makes sense that they would lend
their support to an event like this one, at Settler’s Bay Golf Course, where the average Alaskan will find a group of fellow community members, from every socio-economic and cultural background, who together contribute to the real and diverse cannabis community - dispelling that ‘dirty hippie’ stereotype. Good on Green Jar for supporting this event, and a new perspective on the community they serve! Alaska Elixirs, a vape shop in Wasilla, opened their doors in May 2016, offering a better alternative for quitting cigarettes. While not a cannabis retailer, they do offer several CBD products, along with their vaporizer options - all of which will be available at the event. As sponsor of the VIP lounge, Alaska Elixirs will be hosting a donut-eating contest and a vape cloud contest, and will offer multiple prizes available only to VIP ticket holders. VIP Ticket holders will have exclusive access to the VIP tent, where there will be a bar just for them, and a controlled environment for relaxation and revelry. Denali Dispensaries is a cannabis cultivation company with a retail shop in Anchorage. With master grower, Andrew Campbell, who has won multiple awards for his superior products, Denali Dispensaries has established a firm foothold in the growing industry.
They will be onsite with lots of products, including CBD products from Alaska Botanicals, and more. Absolem’s Garden will be sponsoring the event, alongside other industry professionals. Coming together with the spirit of community, with industry colleagues that are usually competitive, this women-owned and operated business brings a qualityover-quantity approach. This Mat-Su Valley-based company’s motto is “Every Plant, Every Table, Every Day”. Kerby Coman, owner of Green Degree, has been at the forefront of the cannabis industry in Alaska, especially in the Mat-Su Valley. Green Degree will be celebrating their second year anniversary in tandem with this event, and will be giving out tons of free swag items to help celebrate! High Tide Farms is known for producing pressed rosin products and vape cartridges. Their solvent-less production methods are preferred by many conscientious consumers, who seek out the brand with this in mind. High Tide Farms will have their brand on the beer cups at the event, which is sure to start a buzz around their brand! The music is going to be top-shelf! The Jephries, who recently released their prog rock album ‘Holland’, will be on stage at 5:15 for an hour of incredible musicianship and the fun-
loving music-making for which they are known. Check the band out at: www.facebook.com/thejephries/ Watch their new video, ‘Color Scheme’, while you’re there. Great work, and a great addition to this event. Element 47 has been bringing the beat to countless Alaskan feet, filling dance floors across the state for years! A group of some of the better players in the state, the band is sure to put some spring in our step, come late April. An eight-member super group, check them out from 6:30-8 pm at Settler’s Bay Golf Course, and here: www.facebook.com/ Element-47-721016284663068/ H3 is an Alaskan favorite, bringing their Hawaiian-flavored take on reggae tunes that are both familiar and new. From Sublime to Bob Marley, and impressive interpretations of songs from most genres, H3 is the party band that Alaska has counted on for many years. A true musical treasure for the Alaskan scene, check them out from 8-10 pm at the event, and here: www.facebook.com/H3.hawaii.reggae/ Tickets are reasonably priced at $25, with VIP tickets at $50. For more info, and to purchase tickets, check out the link below: www.purplepass.com/#182355
Contributed by Michael B. Dillon Peaks & Valleys Film Screening 04/01/19 – 6:00 PM Burnhouse Pictures & Baird Media Glenn Massay Theater 8295 E College Dr. Palmer Tickets: $12 Local film makers inviting Alaskans for a first look at their new feature film, Peaks & Valleys. Burnhouse Pictures in association with Baird Media are proud to present a special one-night only first look screening of the Alaskan Thriller, Peaks & Valleys. The all-new feature film starring Kevin T. Bennett and Kitty Mahoney is set to appear in red carpet fashion at the beautiful Glenn Massay Theater April 1, 2019. This news comes with the films announcement as an Official Selection at the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival, setting the stage for a very promising festival season. The tour follows the success of directors Michael Burns’ and Dean Q. Mitchell’s all Alaskan feature Proper Binge, which had an amazing
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Film
festival run, full of accolades last year and is set for an upcoming release in 2019. With the potential of further laurels on the horizon for Peaks & Valleys, Burns and writer Michael B. Dillon are certain of one thing; “Alaska gets to see it first!” Wrapped in plastic and thrown from a plane into a rural Alaskan lake would usually mean the end of the story. For Bailey (Kitty Mahony), it’s just the beginning. Waking naked, battered and horrifically traumatized, she finds herself trapped in a secluded cabin somewhere in the wilds of Alaska. Her only company, Jack (Kevin Bennett), is a hardnosed man of few words who makes no question of his desire to be left alone. With winter taking its grip on the surrounding wilderness, Bailey must overcome the aftermath of her ordeal and survive long enough to make it home. With Jack as her only aid, she soon suspects that his secrets were never meant to leave the cabin.
professionals, businesses and citizens, they can say without a doubt that Peaks & Valleys would never have come to fruition. With the support of the community and amazing individuals, like producers Charles Baird and Steven Silba, no one would ever have the chance to experience the passion and art of our very own local talent. It is with this in mind, that the filmmakers behind Peaks & Valleys have decided to share it at home first. The doors are set to open at the Glenn Massay Theater, located on the Mat-Su College campus, at 6:00PM, offering a meet and greet with the cast and crew. Showtime will follow at 7:00PM with a special screening of Quinton Oliver Smiths short film, 12:34, starring Bradford Jackson (Proper Binge). Tickets are $12.00 and can be purchased in advance through MyAlaskaTix, at the Glenn Massay Box Office or at the door on event night.
As anyone in the Alaskan film community will tell you, shooting an independent feature in our great state is no easy feat. Without the help of local talent,
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Arts & Community
Contributed by Teri Loyer A new gallery has come to Palmer! “Totally Photo Design” is now open in the historic Dahlia Building located at 308 E Dahlia Avenue, next to the Palmer Ale House. The show room is open Thursday through Saturday 11:00am – 6:00pm. Please join Totally Photo on March 23rd from 11-6 for our official Grand Opening. We will have door prizes of glass art, pictures and jewelry and more. Teri Loyer is the owner and designer of Totally Photo and is a lifelong Palmerite. Teri combines her love of photography with a zest for whimsy, in her digitally enhanced designs. Documenting the local history, landmarks and beauty from around the Valley and Alaska. All printing and preparation are done locally in her studio. So, if there is a specific design, but you would like it a different size or media, just order it! You can also bring in your own photo and have her create personal art for your wall. A one of a kind, personable and meaningful art! Totally Photo will also be featuring Sunlight Art glass of Chickaloon, AK. Susan Dowd Barrier has been cooking kiln-formed glass for 10 years. Fused glass pieces are awesome, because not only are they beautiful pieces of art, they are also functional, as plates and bowls. Susan will also work with you on custom designs. We will be selling Susan’s nunofelted scarves, which are another functional art form. It is a relatively new form of felting that melds silk and wool into light and durable warm scarves. It is like fused glass, except they are fused fibers instead of glass.
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So, come check us out, win a prize, and take home some great homegrown, made in Alaska art!
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Arts & Community Contributed by the Valley Fine Arts Association
early childhood through graduate level and beyond, and has done so for 45 years.
COME BY AND SEE THE TERRIFIC BIG PICTURE SHOW AT HUMDINGERS IN PALMER UNTIL MAY 7, 2019!
Monica Estill Monica is a prolific Alaskan artist and author. She has produced notable paintings and has several children’s books and ‘how to’ painting books, including Alaska’s Wild Life and The Bossy Bolder.
THE ARTISTS ARE: Michelle Cornelius Michelle is a past president of the Valley Fine Arts Association, she’s also the Art Exhibits Superintendent for the Alaska State Fair. She has paintings around Palmer, Wasilla and Willow. She teaches Drawing in charcoal with Artists Uncorked, and now with Art Cafe, Palmer. You can find work from Michelle on Michelle Cornelius Art on Facebook, and also prints on Fine Art America. Martha Happs Martha is a long-time Palmer resident and also past president of the VFAA. She is an avid Plein Aire painter and Prophetic Artist.
HUMDINGER’S PIZZA IS LOCATED AT 173 S VALLEY WAY, PALMER. The VFAA was formed in early 2005 to create art, 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 two-dimensional art mediums and want to connect with other creative people and gain more exposure locally.
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Brenda Jaeger Brenda Jaeger is an Anchorage healing art instructor and long-time art enthusiast – also, a private pilot. Brenda paints outdoors whenever she can. She works every day on her art, drawing and painting in acrylic and watercolor. Brenda also teaches art from
Maureen Kelly Maureen Kelly is a Palmer artist who works in watercolor, oils, acrylics and collage. Besides traveling, she is an art journalist, still life and portrait painter. She meets regularly with many diverse painting groups.
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Poetry & Prose
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Music Capitalizing on the value of physical albums in the local marketplace, The Anchorage Museum recently launched a new vinyl record label, Unbound Records. For their first release, nine artists collaborated to create a unique sound of the North, capturing musical sense of place. The museum stated, “in an era of digital music, vinyl still delivers what many people think is unmatched audio quality.” Unlike digital sales, vinyl and CD sales have a unique attribute that is often underestimated in the music industry revenue calculation. Physical albums have the ability for resale in used marketplace stores, whereas digital music and streaming services cannot be resold. According to Discogs Marketplace, one of the largest online marketplaces for used record sales, the revenue for physical albums doubles industry figures if “used” album sales are also included with “new” album sales.
Contributed by Sharon Aubrey Last year there was an interesting trend in the music industry. Physical albums such as vinyl and CDs sold better than digital downloads. In 2017, digital downloads decreased by 25%, according to RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America). Ironically, this is good news for local musicians and bands trying to build audiences and increase sales. Local musicians can compete by selling physical albums through CDs or vinyl records, which can increase brand recognition. As brand recognition increases, more listeners will request your music on digital streaming services. While digital downloads are on the decline, digital streaming subscriptions are the fastest growing sales market in the music industry. But that doesn’t mean that physical albums are a thing of the past, nor does that mean that they can’t serve as a good launching platform for sales.
The booth has received placement on the Red Trail and is called, the Alaska Books and Music Booth. If you are a musician or band that would like to arrange a two-hour time slot to meet the public and share your music or have your album sold in the booth, please contact us at: akbooksandmusic@gmail.com www.akbooksandmusic.com
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Hugh McIntyre of Forbes Magazine on March 28, 2018 reported, “People have been saying for a long time that the physical album is done, but that category is responsible for more money coming into the music industry than digital album and song sales combined.” In fact, the 2017 sale of all physical music (CDs and vinyl) totaled over $1.5 billion in the US. Vinyl sales were 15.5 million purchases in 2017.
It is estimated over 6 million “used” album sales occurred online in 2017 and that doesn’t count the offline local sales of “used” albums, which is considered to be double the amount of online sales. This means that over 30 million vinyl albums were sold in 2017. From a musician or band perspective, one might think there is only profit financially from “new” album sales, as they don’t receive a portion of “used” album sales. However, “used” album sales generate new listeners for their music. These new listeners have the potential to greatly increase music streaming and digital download revenues because the musician or band now has an increased target audience. Thus, “used” album sales can boost “new” album sales. Either way we look at it, physical albums have good potential for creating revenue for local musicians. This year at the State Fair in Palmer, we will be hosting a booth for musicians and bands to sell their physical albums and promote digital sales.
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Arts & Community Contributed by Charice Chambers Arctic poppy orange, verbena yellow, hot pink and greens of all shades – no, it’s not a description of the summer garden, its kuspuks! They can now be found at the Palmer Senior Center Gift Shop, along with many ladies who are discovering just how much fun these traditional Alaskan garments are to wear. They are all the products of Bobbi Lewis, an Alaskan designer who lives near Talkeetna. Trained as a fashion designer, Bobbi, who found herself in Alaska, spent a number of years as a home economics teacher. She joined the Family and Community Education club, and soon was involved in selling tickets at many Palmer events, including parades and the annual Colony Christmas winter carnival.
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Though the club did well fund raising for charitable causes, folks often asked who they were. Bobbi realized that they lacked “identity.” They needed something that would make them a recognizable group and so Bobbi’s Kuspuks were born. Bobbi designed a simple style representative of Alaskan kuspuks in general, rather than following traditional
designs of a particular village or area. She also made each generous enough to slip over a winter coat so that members could wear them during outdoor winter events, so sizes run a bit large. Soon ladies were inquiring about acquiring a kuspuk of their own. Designer Lewis suddenly had a business: The Quilted Loon. Today her kuspuks are found exclusively at the Matsu Senior Services Gift Shop. The shop boasts the largest collection of kuspuks in Alaska, most of which are Lewis’ creations.
mosquitos. Lewis also created the “city kuspuk.” This hoodless garment pulls over the head (preserving the expansive front pocket of the original kuspuk), has a short ruffled skirt and ends mid hip. It’s a favorite of nurses, as it’s great for holding stethoscopes. Lewis has also created parkas, essentially kuspuks without the traditional skirt. These are more versatile while still retaining the traditional Alaskan kuspuk look. Both kuspuks and parkas are also available lined for outdoor wear.
Bobbi’s kuspuks are available in several styles. Her “Originals” are a pull-overthe-head variety and feature sweeping full front pockets. Traditionally this style was developed to provide storage for gathering long grasses, flowers and herbs. Lewis’ adult style is a bit more modern, sporting a full-length front zip. This makes dawning and removing the kuspuk much more convenient. It also allows the wearer to leave the kuspuk open giving it a more vested tunic appearance. Both are available in three lengths: above the knee, at the knee, and mid thigh. Traditionally, the longer skirted kuspuks were worn when berry picking. The skirt created a breeze as the wearer moved, driving away gnats and
Lewis also makes men’s dancing parkas, children’s kuspuks, and even doll kuspuks (fit American girl dolls). Custom orders are available as well. In her spare time, Bobbi crafts amazing wall hangings and quilts. A large centennial wall hanging quilt was produced by Alaskan quilters during the Palin administration. Lewis is proud to have contributed to the project. Kuspuks, parkas, wall hangings and quilts are all available at the Matsu Senior Services Gift Shop. Located at 1132 South Chugach Street in Palmer, across from Palmer Junior Middle School, the gift shop is open Monday through Friday, from 10 am to 2 pm.
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Theater
Contributed by Valley Performing Arts
special effects, including “flying” and “swimming” cast members, wonderful digital backdrops, and colorful costumes galore, you’ll believe that you’ve been transported under the sea and to a kingdom far away.
The Little Mermaid March 22 - April 14 Fridays at 7 PM, Saturdays at 7PM & Sundays at 2PM Valley Performing Arts 8295 E College Dr. Palmer Regular Admission: $25 Seniors 65+, Students 18 & Under: $23 We’re all familiar with the story... Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human, Prince Eric, to the world above. She bargains with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs, but the bargain is not what it seems – Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull, and Sebastian the crab, to ensure that her dreams come true – both above, and below, the waves. Disney’s The Little Mermaid is filled with all of the things that families have loved about the animated classic with some of the best‐known songs from the past 30 years. Valley Performing Arts’ production brings the Broadway sensation to the Valley in a big way. Over forty talented men, women, and young people, supported by more than thirty experienced crew members, will bring this classic and beloved tale to life right before your eyes. With one‐of‐a‐kind
All of the best‐loved songs are there… ”Part of Your World”, “Under the Sea”, and “Kiss the Girl”... plus new original songs to add to the joy and adventure of this wonderful family favorite. In sea or on land, this show is one you won’t want to miss. The Little Mermaid opens March 22nd and runs through April 14th. Ticket prices are $25 for Regular Admission, $23 for Seniors 65+/Students 18 and younger. The production will be at The Glenn Massay Theater on the Mat‐Su College Campus, 8295 E. College Drive, off of Trunk Road in Palmer. Call VPA at 373‐0195, visit our website www.valleyperformingarts.org, or come by the office, Monday through Friday, 9AM to 3PM, to purchase your tickets. Be sure to follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/Valley‐Performing‐Arts
Arts & Community Contributed by Dana Travis
Peggy states she’s always been a member of a prayer shawl group, and when she saw Primrose didn’t have one, she knew she had to start one.
If you are interested in joining this group, they welcome anyone who wants to help! The Circle of Love meets the second Thursday of each month, at 889 North Elkhorn Dr, at Primrose Retirement in the Gardenside Café, from 2pm to 4pm. If you are interested in joining, participating, or helping in any way, please call (907) 373-5500.
MID-MAR 2019
Circle of Love is a knitting and crochet group that Peggy King started in April of 2018, at Primrose Retirement Community of Wasilla. The group makes prayer shawls for those who are in the hospital, on hospice, or injured.
When I met the group on Thursday, they had over 35 prayer shawls ready to take out to the hospice patients in the Palmer hospital! The group makes the shawls, then meets once a month to pray over them and hand package them. Members of Kings Chapel Church then help distribute the shawls to those who need them.