Make A Scene November 2013

Nov. 2013

FREE!

www.MakeASceneAK.com

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

The People’s Paper

IN THIS ISSUE: > Artist Joy Lynn McCavit

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> Adele Released Childrens CD

> Determination: NAOI

BIGGEST

ISSUE EVER! 4 8 PAG E S

the art of ice.

Page 29

Page 17

CO LO N Y CH R IS TM A S GU ID E PA GE 21 Photo by Eric Summerfield

2 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Nov. 2013

Arts

Joy Lynn McCavit

Alaskan Artist and Photographer Contributed by Espresso Cafe

Joy Lynn was born and raised in Alaska. Her love of wildlife, mountains, flowers and culture comes from her love of that rugged backdrop.

Her dream to become an artist began in her primary years. While attending first grade in Anchorage, Alaska; representatives from the Anchorage Fine Arts Museum were choosing two pieces of art from each school in their district for a month long Native and Alaskan Art Display, they chose Joy Lynn’s painting.

Her parents took her and her family to that incredible show and in that moment seeing her artwork amongst the famous native and Alaskan artists on display, her love of art and culture was birthed. That summer her family moved to the Nunley Homestead in Wasilla where she was raised. In sixth grade once again another culture experience by teachers bringing a native Alaskan man into her classroom who shared his knowledge of Native legends, hunting, fishing stories, whaling movies, games, and cuisine.

Her love of Alaska was rooted deeply within her soul.

Throughout Junior High and High School she began to draw and paint on a daily basis and then another teacher stepped into her life once again bringing with him Polynesian Culture into her view. At this point her small town sheltered life began to open up with bigger dreams and bigger artistic possibilities. Along with being voted Vice President of the Wasilla High School Art Club. She graduated from Wasilla High School and attended Bethany Bible College for a semester then returned to her Alaskan homeland to attend University of Alaska Anchorage studying art, business and communications.

In 2000 she began her art business under the name Joyful Aspirations.

Since the name meant joyful dreams it was a way to dream big privately and paint while still remaining incognito.

In 2010 because of her son’s special needs it became imperative for her to retire early from her career with State of Alaska and commit fulltime to caring for and being trained to help her son.

During this time painting was her release and personal healing outlet, then as her son healed, she began in 2011 painting prophetically with Art is Worship and other artists publically to include: The Awaken!

Conference, Alaska Burn and with 15 artists painted a collaborative piece for One Lord Sunday and was part of a collaborative art show for local artists at Doodles Art Studio.

She mentored under Leigh and Jake Sloan during 2011-2012 learning to help with stage design and began to step into leadership roles in more creative outlets and volunteering beginning in 2012 handing out clothing and food to her local community in need.

In 2013 she changed her business name to Joy Lynn McCavit and stepped

Arts

out of the reclusive shelter of private isolation and was offered the position of Volunteer Art Ministry Director at Blood–N-Fire Ministry of Alaska, painting was the foundation they began the main ministry on which was started in Atlanta, Georgia and the beginning of 2014 she will be teaching watercolor and helping families bond and heal emotionally through artistic expression in painting. Her love for painting comes from deep within her soul. The places that were once locked away because of fear have been unlocked and just as watercolor has a transparency and translucent quality, when she paints so does her soul.

Her spirit begins to sing and dance with her brushes in hand, the beauty that is all around her floods her soul as she wants to capture every color. She imagines the animals really smiling and being happy just as she is just to be painting them she wants to see deep into their spirit.

She wants her art to unlock emotions and bring healing deep within a person’s soul. From the vibrant colors to the furry joyful faces and soft delicate petals and colors in nature, when they flow she wants joy to flood the persons being as they view the artistic pieces. She wants healing from heaven to be released thru her hands and flood the earth; for people to walk away from her art feeling powerful peace, health and happiness just from the experience of viewing what brings deep immense joy to her soul each time she picks up her brushes. Art

Alaska Bible College is now in PALMER! transcends words and an image can heal a broken heart, mind and soul just from the power of love flowing thru it!

www.akbible.edu

Join us at Espresso Cafe for Second Saturday, November 9th, from 1 3pm. We will be showcasing the artwork of Joy Lynn McCavit for the entire month of November.

Espresso Cafe is honored to be hosting Joy Lynn’s very first art show!

Espresso Cafe will be donating our 10% commissions to MyHouse, for displaced youth. Joy Lynn will also be donating 10% of her sales to MyHouse as well, which is a total of 20% of her sales going to a good cause!

Please join us at 1265 S. Seward Meridian Parkway, Wasilla. Across the street from Wal-Mart to view her artwork.

> For questions or more information, please call Jennifer at 376-5282

Espresso Cafe will be donating our 10% commissions to MyHouse Charity

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

4 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Community

roadhouse bakery ● restaurant ● rooms

Alaska Association for Historic Preservation Awards

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

The Campbell House

Live Acoustic Music Every Second Saturday, 5-7pm

The Alaska Association for Historic Preservation held its annual meeting November 9, 2013, at the Pioneer Schoolhouse in Anchorage.

On Main Street ● 733-1351

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

Darrin and Sheri Hamming of Palmer were the recipients of the 2013 Excellence in Preservation Award for their restoration work on the Campbell House.

Custom Tie Dye - Custom Sewing - Custom Dog Coats

775-4257 Eastlake Mall, Big Lake

Nov. 2013

The Campbell House, on the National Historic Register, is a great place to stay for your next get away!

12 Years

in Business!

> Check the website for information: www.campbellhousealaska.com

> 2011 After Purchase

Discounts for Churches and Private Schools

om hot907.c www.hots chorage n A & Mat-Su

355-6609 > A Picture of The Campbell House from the 1930’s

> Campbell House 2013

Ai Kurabara

> This event is free and open to the public. To guarantee your seat, RSVP at www. jflalc.org

www.linksprc.org 373-3632

RSVPs are not required, walk-ins are welcome on a space available basis.

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

> For more information please

visit www.uaa.alaska.edu or contact Mr Tatsuya Kawashima at tatsuya_kawashima@jflalc.org.

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

Red Barn

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

The UAA Department Music in conjunction with the Japan Foundation proudly present the ai kurabara trio project in concert, Wednesday, November 20 at 7:30pm in the UAA Recital Hall.

Attached to this email you will find the official Press Release and accompanying photo, credited to Hideo Nakajima. A shortened blurb has been provided below. Â Fresh and modern Japanese jazz group ai kuwabara trio project will perform a free concert November 20 at 7:30 pm in the UAA Recital Hall, sponsored by the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles (JFLA) , the Consular

Office of Japan in Anchorage, and the UAA Department of Music. The band plays urban contemporary jazz with a strong, experimental feel and a flavor of funk, featuring elements of progressive rock and even pop. They are led by young jazz pianist Ai Kuwabara with Yusuke Morita on bass guitar and Shintaro Imamura on drums.

Auction House ions.com www.redbarnauct

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Nov. 2013

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NG AUCTION I PTI TE E C

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NO W

Japan Foundation and UAA presents...

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

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Music

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Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Nov. 2013

Community Local assistance available for

Obamacare questions, applications

By Kate McKee

Certified ACA Counselor Mat-Su Health Services

Although the mere mention of Obamacare causes some folks’ blood to boil and others wondering how the mandate will fit into their budget, I want to assure Valley residents that I am available for questions and/or assistance with applications if that is something that might help ease anxiety.

I am one of only a few people in Mat-Su (aside from Enroll Alaska brokers) certified by the federal government to assist residents with the Affordable Care Act. I’m finding that there is still a lot of misinformation and fear out

there and I’d like to pass on some information about tax credits and hardship exemptions that could help quite a few people when the time comes to apply for ACA health coverage.

For example, did you know that an uninsured single person with an adjusted gross income of between $21,530 and $28,700 would only have to pay up to 4 percent of that income for his or her health insurance premium?

That would be about $96 per month on the high end and $72 on the low end. An uninsured family of 4 with an income of between $58,880 and $73,600 would pay 6.3 percent, or between $300 and $386 per month.

The incomes to qualify for a tax credit range from about $18,000 for a single person to a maximum of $137,800 for a family of five. For many, the resulting insurance costs are much more affordable than what most people pay for health insurance through an employer.

And are you aware that those facing bankruptcy, large medical bills they can’t pay, eviction or foreclosure, caring for an ill family member, or property damage from a natural or

man-made disaster could qualify for a hardship exemption and not be penalized for not buying health insurance?

These are ACA facts that many people aren’t aware of.

Once the federal ACA website is fully functional, I will be helping folks start the application process and navigate through it. My ability to help them actually enroll in a plan will depend on the complexity of their health care needs.

If they require more assistance comparing health plans than I’m able to provide, they will be referred to an Enroll Alaska broker to help them complete their application.

> Please give me a call at MatSu Health Services at 352-3225 or email me at kmckee@matsuhealthservice. org if you have questions, would like to make an appointment for a one-on-one meeting, or would like me to make a presentation to a group of people.

One Minute Can Make A Difference

By Kurt Riemann

Today I was driving home and saw a woman in a jacket with her hood up sitting at an unprotected bus stop, wind and rain pouring on her bentover frame. I realized that I might have an umbrella in my trunk and pulled over a few streets down to make sure and get it out.

As I sat at the stop light to return to the bus stop, I watched the bus pass and pull into the stop where she got on and it pulled away, while I was still sitting at the light with the umbrella at the ready, the passenger window rolled down. That minute I realized that when you see a chance, don’t wait an instant. Follow through.

I should have done a U-turn the second I saw her. One minute can make a difference. Doubtless she will be at that stop again tomorrow in the rain.

But this time I’ll be early.

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“Sounds of the Silver Screen” Oct. “‘Tis the Season” Concert - 18th, Dec.7:30PM 6th Teeland Middle School

$5 Adults/Seniors & Students FREE

Mens and Womens premium DESIGNER JEANS AND APPAREL.

Entertainment

Contributed by Zaz Hollander

The Mat-Su Concert Band presents its always popular winter concert at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6 at Teeland Middle School.

The concert includes an intermission. There will be a small admission fee at the door. Tickets are $5; seniors and students still get in free. Tickets will also be available before the concert.

Career Guidance Center

by Leroy Anderson. The band will also play a version of Silent Night, “Stille Nacht” by Franz Grube, as recorded by Mannheim Steamroller.

Tenor Dr. David Ianson joins a smaller, wind ensemble selection of band musicians for Hector Berlioz’s “Childhood of Christ,” an oratorio based on the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt. Ianson, a research scientist at the Alaska Plant Materials Center, began singing in grade school and continued through five university chorales, madrigal and opera ensembles.

He sang with the Portland Opera Chorus and Russian American Colony Singers. Ianson currently performs with the Alaska Chamber Singers.

Other concert selections include “The Eighth Candle,” composed

by Steve Reisteter as a “prayer and dance” for Hanukkah; a traditional “Celtic Carol” as arranged by Robert W. Smith; and the serene and simple “In the Bleak Midwinter” by Gustav Holst.

The Dutch composer Jan Van der Roost is also represented with his “Canterbury Chorale.”

Here’s the surprise: “Minor Alterations” by David Lovrien, a topsy-turvy composition that sets well-known holiday songs in a minor key. Listen for your favorites - it may take a few minutes to figure them out!

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

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

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

* SCHOLARSHIPS * COLLEGE SELECTION *CAREER PLANNING YOU don’t have to do it alone!!!

Call Mari Jo Parks, College Coach She is an expert in assisting high school students find the right college, scholarships and financial aid.

Mari Jo Parks can HELP with…

• Finding Education Opportunities • Easy Steps in the College Selection • Financial Aid Assistance • Scholarships & Application Process • Scholarship Essay Writing • Resume Creation • Interview Skills • Learning about Careers Also Specialize in Resumes for Employment

Website: www.findingyourfuture.us E-mail: future@mtaonline.net (907) 354-5405

> For more information

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

WRITE ON.

Nov. 2013

Much-loved numbers include “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and “Carol of the Bells” as well as two popular medleys, “Holiday Overture” by Kenneth P. Soper and “A Christmas Festival”

Selections for the band’s “‘Tis the Season” concert include a mix of familiar holiday tunes and festive pieces - plus a guest vocal soloist and a surprise that will keep audience members guessing.

Finding Your Future

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Mat-Su Concert Band rings in Holiday Season

Main St., Wasilla, Alaska (907) 414-8133

8 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Nov. 2013

Community “Sleying the Reed” Dance Ensemble

project. The project brings together the creative voices of Kramer, visiting guest artist, Joanne Barrett, and several Anchorage choreographers.

Contributed by Andrea Miller

The UAA Department of Theatre and Dance proudly presents the acclaimed Dance Ensemble in “Sleying the Reed”, a new work exploring the brutal conditions of women’s lives around the world.

Directed by UAA Theatre and Dance faculty member, Katherine Kramer, “Sleying the Reed” is an eveninglength collaborative performance

The concert runs November 15-24, 2013 at the Harper Studio Theatre in the UAA Fine Arts Building Shows are Fridays and Saturdays, at 8:00pm and Sundays at 6:00pm.

Tickets available at www.uaatix. com.

For more information please visit www.uaa.alaska. edu/theatreanddance/ productions/index.cfm or contact Katherine Kramer at 907-786-4706

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus!

Nov. 29th - Dec. 22nd

Treat your entire family to an old fashioned Christmas and join us at Valley Performing Arts, 251 W. Swanson Avenue, Wasilla.

Two compelling stories come together in this heartwarming play inspired by the famous editorial, Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.

Just before Christmas in 1897, James O'Hanlon inspires his young daughter, Virginia, to write a letter to the local newspaper, The Sun, asking a simple question: “Is there a Santa Claus?” Armed with her father’s belief that "If you see it in The Sun, it's so", she mails the letter to the newspaper.

Meanwhile, a young newspaper editor is struggling with difficult holiday times as he is faced with losing his job if he can't get rid of his writer’s block by morning.

Even though they don't know each other, the spirit of Christmas

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

Contact: 745-4318

Do you love to sing? Join the

Mat-Su

COMMUNITY CHORUS

is about to bring these people together, creating in the process an unforgettable journey and leaving us wondering that age old question, Is there really a Santa Claus?

Directed by Julie McCartney, this play opens November 29th and will run through December 22nd.

Tickets for this play are on sale now!

Don’t miss this heartwarming show!

> Call VPA at 373-

0195, visit our website valleyperformingarts.org, or come by the office, Monday through Friday 9am to 3pm to get your tickets.

“Two

compelling stories come together in this heartwarming play inspired by the famous editorial, Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.”

Got Work?

By James Hastings

This is the point of this months writing in the Warriors Notebook. VETERANS EMPLOYMENT ISSUES.

The GUARANTEE of a Veteran’s workplace value comes in the form of the proven past record of success in handling the tough jobs.

The Hard decisions. The care and control and maintenance of the company property and resources, be they tools or personnel.

What else is a guarantee? Their ability to get the training and certification necessary to operate in todays technical work place.

There exist a huge number of agencies and groups offering their time and experience to help the Veteran/Guard/ Reservist/Family Member AND the Employers to network and activity recruit and employ these very folks. The National Chamber of Commerce provides a program called Hire Our Heroes. There exists Warrior to Work. Warriors in the Workplace. Hero2Hired.

Helmets to Hardhats, and the list goes on. These are NO COST programs available to ensure that we are actually walking the walk when it comes to taking care of those who serve our country.

There exist locally some remarkable TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES for our Guard/ Reserves & Veterans to get the training, certifications/licenses, and experience necessary to work in the existing and emerging Alaskan Economy. SKILLED TRADES are in high demand at present and there appears to be an even greater surge on the horizon.

The new battle cry of the growing Natural Resource Development Industry is “Hire for AttitudeTrain for Skill.” This thinking and attitude toward a focus on hiring OUTSTANDING VETERAN TEAM MEMBERS was started

by Little Red Services and is perpetuated by a growing number of companies. I think we should ALL adopt this as our model for thinking and hiring.

If you are or you know a Veteran, Guard, or Reserve Member, or a Transitioning Military Service Member in need of Employment assistance please pass this information along. The Same goes for Employers seeking GREAT TEAM PLAYERS. So in the spirit of the most recent Veterans Day, rather than waiting until next year to focus on Vets, make it a daily habit, and let's not just Thank a Veteran. Lets HIRE Veterans.

> Contact me and let’s

work together to make that happen.

This article was brought to you in part

by Bearpaw Archery of Wasilla, see their ad on page 12

Nov. 2013

There are numerous Engineering and & Support Companies on the North Slope who are now actively seeking our Veterans/Guard & Reservists. Training is the key to work. They require it and for the most part, despite the Military Training and Experience, there is a level of civilian certification which must be achieved. Northern Industrial Training serves as a prime example of Success and

Action to Train and Facilitate Employment for Veterans. The post training employment rate is over 95% IN THE FIELD OF TRAINING! Not trained to operate equipment then going to make burgers and fries. That means they are going to work in the field in which the Veteran has chosen and been trained.

The VOW Act of 2011 (Veterans Opportunity to Work) included several provisions to offer a “leg up” to our transitioning Military as well as the currently servicing National Guard and Reserve Troops. From enhanced Transitional Programs and Training to Certification and Credit for Military Training and Service, it put into a place additional tools to assist the most capable emerging work force in not just making themselves successful, but in making our Economic Future successful.

Included in the VOW Act are Tax Incentives for Employers to put these men and women to work. Work Opportunity Tax

Credits (WOTC) are available for businesses who hire Unemployed Veterans and offer from $2,400 up to $9,600 per qualified employee hired and retained.

Our State of Alaska has an unemployment rate of 6.5%. The Veteran Unemployment rate is 6.3% the Post 9/11 Veteran Unemployment rate is 7.2% Our state is officially reported as being composed of 14.9% Veteran. I know more Numbers and reports.

Blah-Blah-Blah who cares, right?

Here’s how to make these number real: Ask yourself how many Veterans or current Guard and/or Reserve Warriors do you know?

Now ask yourself how many do you know that are unemployed?

Maybe your number is high or maybe it’s zero. The point is that we in Alaska do in fact have an unemployed Veteran issue on our hands. In a state still growing economically and poised for increased future growth we are STILL IMPORTING LABOR from other states. This is INSANE!

Our Military Veterans are some of the most capable and trainable Team Members any company could ever hope to recruit. I’m sure we all get the emotion “sale” of what a Veteran brings to the table, disciplined, clean, sober, on time, dedicated, trainable, experienced, etc. That’s all easy pickin’s. But those are simply “Norms” and not guarantees.... stereotyping if you will. Not all Veterans are ALL of those things.

Not all people in general are all of those things, yet some ARE all of them, be they Veteran or not.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

For most Military Service Members, wearing the Uniform is our “first Job”. Be it one term of enlistment or a full career through retirement.

Guard, Reserves, Full Time, it doesn't really matter. ALL are volunteers.

All are trained and prepared to handle the business of their Uncle Sam and all of our American (and worldwide) family of mankind.

Be it Peace, War, or anything in between the two. This means to me that Warriors can, have, and do WORK.

Presented by Alaska’s Healing Hearts

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The Warriors’ Notebook

Food Pantry of Wasilla renaed to MatSu Food Bank

The organizational name change better fits the needs of our ongoing dedication to feeding families across the MatSu Valley.

We are excited to be moving forward and ask for your continuing support in helping to feed your neighbors in need.

A Social and Experimental Revolution at Mat-Su College Professor Desimini’s 3-D Design class met Wednesday, November 6th, in the atrium of the College to present their site-specific installation: The Office.

During the Flash Mob, students and audience experienced the interdisciplinary intricacies of theater: space, performance, collaboration, comedy, drama, personal interaction, stage, choreography, and improvisation.

This effort was a group project, in which students collaborated to bring the assignment to fruition using discarded cardboard to transform the perception of space and to transform thought.

Installation art can be temporary or permanent. This project, which will remain in the atrium for one week, speaks to the rapid-fire pace of contemporary culture. Student Rhonda Moraski stated “we are so busy putting out fires, that we do not take the time to realize what

is going on around us.” She added that people’s minds are being transformed due to the rapid pace of contemporary life, and perhaps this change is not for the better.

Students discussed the pursuit of happiness, and that contemporary culture is focused wrongly on the pursuit of money. The installation also speaks to the idea of work, who does the work, and who is compensated for this work.

Another point students make is the myth that one cannot “make a living” from their art, and must find a more “lucrative” job in the workforce. Students addressed the importance of assemblage, bricolage, repurposing of materials, and what is valued or not valued in our society.

There is a meta-narrative to the Mat-Su College Flash Mob, which incorporates Fluxus, Beat Generation Cafés, 1960’s Happenings, and Street Art. This project became more meaningful to the students as they worked on the project. This is much more than 3-DDesign -- this is Contemporary Art, this is real life.

The MatSu Food Bank also takes pleasure in announcing the formation of our Food4Kids child feeding program. Since 1994, we’ve been very fortunate to be providing assistance to our “neighbors in need” and now we’re thrilled to also be focusing efforts on feeding our kids.

Among the motivating factors to establish a child nutrition program was a desire to support educational and enriching afterschool care programs for children up to 18 years

The Food Pantry of Wasilla has come a long way from its humble beginnings 25 years ago but is looking to the future and its possibilities that lay ahead with additional facilities, a newly implemented Food 4Kids Program and other ideas to further our mission. Additional staff and proven leadership is moving the MatSu Food Bank forward.

The MatSu Food Bank will be the only valley wide food bank directly feeding families and children in our community.

Flash Mob:

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

The Food Pantry of Wasilla Board of Directors are pleased to announce the renaming of the organization to: MatSu Food Bank This is a major step forward in our service to our valley neighbors in need. With the formation of the MatSu Food Bank, we are able to help supply other smaller spaced pantries with gathered food supplies not always available here to our valley residents.

of age in at-risk neighborhoods in order to reduce juvenile crime and educational underachievement.

Our skilled staff prepares and provides fresh, healthy meals each day. Children that are properly nourished are more likely to do well in school, finish high school and lead a healthy lifestyle. Many times the food prepared and delivered is the only substantial regular meal these kids receive during the week. When kids have opportunities to improve their lives, everyone benefits. Our goal is to develop self-sufficiency and less dependence upon the need for food assistance in the future.

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Community

Nov. 2013

12 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Nov. 2013

Education Tai Chi’s Long History

By Carole Milstead

No one will dispute the fact that Chinese Martial Arts are old. Just how old is not exactly clear.

When living in China, I watched part of a show on the English speaking TV channel about petroglyphs in southern China, that showed figures doing what is now called Push Hands or sparring.

It was estimated that those rock carvings were at least 5000 years old. One of the many legends of the beginning of Tai Chi says that a Buddhist Monk by the name of Ta Mo (aka Bodhidharma) who traveled from India to China back in the 5th or 6th century brought it with him.

He observed Shaolin Monks, who were weak in the body because of excessive meditating. Ta Mo taught them a series of external exercises called Eighteen Arhat Hands, among others. Many of the classical moves that are used in today’s Tai Chi, such

as White Crane Spreads Wings, and Play the Pipa, were part of these exercises.

During the Three Kingdoms Era of China, a physician by the name of Hua Tuo, at behest of his Emperor, developed Five Animal Frolics, to help local people get into better physical condition. Hua Tuo believed that moving naturally like animals would strengthen bodies. Still others attribute the beginnings of Tai Chi Chuan to Taoism and Lao Tzu.

exercises Tai Chi Chuan. He is the first one to join the isolated Thirteen Movements into a series of connected movements. Wong Zong Yue is said to have uttered the phrase, “a force of four ounces deflects one thousand pounds.” Wong’s student Chiang Fa reportedly brought Tai Chi Chuan to the Chen family in Henan Province and maybe other villages around China. Like all stories that come from ancient times, these are hard to prove or disprove.

One of the better known legends says Zhang San Feng developed Tai Chi during the 1400s, after observing a crane and snake fighting at Wu Dang Mountain. He was a Shaolin Monk and had gone to Wu Dang, a Taoist Retreat, for some much needed rest.

Watching the lethal movements of the snake and crane gave Zhang San Feng inspiration for his Thirteen Movements, which he called Long Boxing.

However, in the late 1500s, Chen Wangting founded Tai Chi Chuan as we know it. While it has evolved and changed somewhat through the ages, Chen Wangting is the first historically verifiable person to develop the art. He developed the movements from his study of Chinese Martial Arts practiced by Shaolin monks and his military experience. Chen Wangting’s work included 108 Moves Long Fist, Cannon Fist routine and Push Hands.

Wong Zong Yue is said to have been a student of Zhang San Feng, although like Zhang San Feng, there is no verifiable historical proof of his existence. Wong Zong Yue is said to be the one who first called these

Chen Changxing, 14th generation Chen family, is most famous because he taught the first outsider to the Chen family, Yang Lu-ch’an. Chen Changxing learned different styles of Kung Fu and traditional Chen Forms.

LAPTOP REPAIR 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Today there are five major styles of Tai Chi Chuan, Chen, Yang, Wu, Sun, and another Wu. Chen, of course, is the oldest. It has been said that Chen is the most physical; Yang is the most graceful and dancelike. Sun is the “Qi Gong” of Tai Chi. Wu styles are much like Yang. All bring wonderful healing to the body, mind, and spirit.

> For more information contact Carole Milstead at 775-2571

FLOWERING FIST

TAI CHI DEMO CLASS

SATURDAY AFTER THANKSGIVING

BEHIND LITTLE MILLERS ON BOGARD #11 Crossroads Center, 3060 Lazy Eight Ct.

Monday, Wednesday and Fridays 7-8PM Tuesday & Thursday 8:30-9:30AM, Saturday 1-2PM CALL 775-2571 FOR MORE INFO

floweringfist@gmail.com

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: Sept. 9, 10 & 12 - Oct. 7, 8 & 10 Nov. 4, 5 & 7 - Dec. 9, 10 & 12 (10 am - 2 pm)

Class D Road Testing VEHICLE AVAILABLE

CALL 373-2669

He compiled the latter and taught them to Yang Luchan. While Yang Family Style Tai Chi Chuan originally came from the Chen family, other styles of Chen were developed and practiced throughout successive generations.

Call to register: 841-3639

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Education Alyeska Resort’s Ski and Snowboard Program Offers an Affordable Introduction to Snow Sports for Children Contributed by Amy Quesenberry The Discover Ski and Snowboard Program is an affordable way to introduce the sport of skiing or snowboarding to children ages eight years old through high school.

The program costs $160 per student and includes beginner’s lift ticket, two hour lesson and transportation from Anchorage and Eagle River. Rental gear is available for an additional $30. For students with intermediate abilities, the Discover Upper Mountain Program provides a similar offering for $205 including equipment rental or $175 without rentals.

The Alyeska Resort Mountain Learning Center consists of approximately 80 full and part-time instructors and they teach alpine and telemark skiing, snowboarding and options for cross country skiing.

Private and group lessons are available, and a variety of specialty programs, camps and clinics are also offered throughout the winter.

About Alyeska Resort (www. alyeskaresort.com) Alyeska Resort is Alaska’s premier year-round destination featuring The Hotel Alyeska, an award-winning 304 room full-service property.

Alyeska Resort stands out in ski season with 650” of average snowfall annually and the longest-continuous double black diamond ski run in North America.

> Learn more about the

resort and plan your Alaskan adventure at www.alyeskaresort.com or 800.880.3880.

WRITE ON.

Nov. 2013

Located just 40 miles from Anchorage and Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Alyeska Resort is your base camp for summer and winter excursions.

The resort is within close proximity

of three national parks and the Kenai Peninsula, and is home to the northernmost temperate rainforest, part of the Chugach Mountains.

The Discover Upper Mountain without Lesson Program is designed for all-mountain ski or snowboard kids seeking a packaged lift ticket and transportation savings without a lesson. The program costs $185 with rental equipment or $155 without rentals.

For details on each program and to register online, go to www.

AlyeskaResort.com. Online registration will begin on November 1, 2013.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

The program consists of three group lessons held on three consecutive Saturdays or Sundays. The lessons are two hours in length and include a lunch break (lunch not included) and a free period in the afternoon for unchaperoned free skiing or riding. Optional afternoon lessons are available for an additional fee on a week by week basis.

Nov. 2013

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

14

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

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

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

Thanks for helping Make-A-Scene! ..........................

Meet Tua

Contributed by Angie Lewis Tua is a grand old dame, and at 13 years old, she deserves to be treated as such. Tua is a retired sled dog who is good with cats, dogs, and children. A perfect lady!

She is currently in a long term foster situation and will stay there for the remainder of her life, unless a more perfect situation might arise.

If you think that you have what it takes to make Tua even happier than she currently is, please call Angie at 841-3173

Submitting Articles & Calendar:

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

Submissions are not accepted via Facebook.

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

Before you can train your dog to do anything, you must first get her attention. You can do this by stamping your foot on the floor, using a flashlight to signal your dog, or using a vibrating collar.

These collars operate with a remote control and allow you to get your dog’s attention whether she watching you or not. It is very important that your dog associate the vibration with a pleasant experience or reward.

Disclaimer:

6

Contributed by Angie Lewis Using positive training is the best method for working with a deaf dog. The use of hand signals that are consistent and visible from a distance is vital. Some guardians invent their own signals, but there are signals that are commonly used for the skills of ‘come’, ‘stay’, and ‘sit’.

Advertising:

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

How to Train a Deaf Dog

DID YOU KNOW? Dogs Dream!

Dogs and humans have the same type of slow wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement (REM) and during this REM stage dogs can dream. The twitching and paw movements that occur during their sleep are signs that your pet is dreaming

Sign language can be used to communicate with your dog. These communications can be learned by repeated connections between the words and the actions. Some owners use American Sign Language to teach their dogs everyday tasks.

Using this common sign language will allow for others to use them also, such as veterinarians and groomers.

The ‘sit’ signal can be taught by using your index finger to glide in front of your face or by holding a treat close to your dog’s head, over her ears.

Use a hand signal that will be associated with the command to ‘sit’. Be mindful of your own body language, as dogs watch our every move.

Community

> TRAINING A DEAF DOG CONT. Another signal that is important is the ‘watch me’ signal. To teach this signal, tap your finger under your eye or sweep your finger across your eyes. When your dog watches you, reward her immediately, using a clear hand signal and then give a treat.

Some other tips:

Do not allow your deaf dog to run off-leash in an unfenced area. Remember that even a well-trained dog can become distracted and a deaf dog will be more difficult to recall from a greater distance.

Teach your deaf dog to be comfortable with being touched. In order to do so, practice touching your dog gently on her shoulders and back – giving treats immediately following the touch.

Put an identification tag on your dog’s collar, stating that she is deaf and include your contact information.

By Lynsey Ryan

DID YOU KNOW? Norwegians are only required to pay half tax in November, so everyone has more money for Christmas.

The Insurance Store, LLC 4900 E. Palmer-Wasilla Hwy Ste 3

VALLEY:

The tags have items on them that the organization need donated such as, cat litter, tents, hand warmers, toys for a two year old boy.

When I became the Manager of Perfect Look Salon I decided I would take every advantage to do what I love doing most, to be the change. I have found many creative ways to give back to my community. One of my favorites was during my favorite Holidays, Christmas.

We have done the Salvation Army Angel Tree for 5 years and this year we have decided to do 3 trees! Each tree being done in the same manner, but for a different group of organizations.

The trees all decorated differently, by a different stylist in the shop. One for My House, an organization that helps

They range from $1 to $100, and of course cash donations will always be accepted. For anyone who donates they can keep updated on our facebook page on where exactly the donations are going, when, and the difference they have made in our community. Please help us make all 3 trees a success by spreading the word, or coming down to the salon and donating.

Thank you everyone for your support!

Lynsey Ryan Perfect Look Salon Manager

How to be featured in Make a Scene...

745-8030

Jim Davis

Megan Davis

Horace Mann

Home • Auto • Life • Retirement Educator Discounts!

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

When teaching your dog to come, utilize the same strategies as discussed earlier.

After an adequate amount of repetition, do not give your dog the treat right away. If your dog obeys your command, regardless of getting a treat, then reward her. Make certain that you are offering your dog a delectable treat or favorite toy, so that she is motivated to come. Make certain that you are using clear hand signals and that the treat you are using is unique from ordinary treats that you might typically offer your dog.

Perfect Look Salon: Angel Trees

homeless teens in the Valley, one for our furry friends that will benefit Clear Creek Cat Rescue, AK Dog and Puppy Rescue and all the wonderful foster parents that help save animal’s lives, and the last tree will be for Children, the Special Santa Program.

Each tree has tags on them that the public takes off the tree, it serves as a reminder for when you go shopping.

15

Pets & Animals

Bio/Press Release

Email

Pictures

Try, try again!

Nov. 2013

Write a bio about you, your event, band, etc or a simple press release (Roughly 200-500 words)

Pictures are really important!

Take good ones!

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.

Thank you for

helping us reach over 6 years in print!

FEEDBACK, please...

What do you enjoy reading about in MAS? What would you like to see more of in MAS? Send us your thoughts makeasceneak@mac.com

6

submit your stuff online

> Johnson sits on his

sled in Hatcher Pass.

Profiles of Excellence PRE-SCHOOL AND CHILD CARE

- Limited Openings -

Outstanding Care and Educational Opportunities

17

Community

Your child deserves the learning, love & care they will receive at

Determination Brad Johnson grew up in the valley and played in Hatcher Pass every chance he got. The now 27-year-old charged the hills with a vengeance that belied the potential hazards.

“Powder riding is everything to me,” he said, his eyes sparkling with excitement just at the thought. “I live for it. If I couldn’t ride powder, I don’t know what I’d do.”

On February 4th, 2012 Johnson was suddenly forced to face the reality that the very thing he lived for might never happen again.

He and a group of about 30 friends were riding and jumping their snowmachines in Hatcher Pass off Archangel Trail with the goal to capture film footage that would attract sponsorships to fund his riding career.

“I was expecting a super cush landing but when I hit it was ‘boiler plate’ hard. I slammed into my machine and got crushed.”

Unable to move, he knew it wasn’t going to be good.

He woke later in the hospital to the news that he’d broken his back at T-12 and was permanently paralyzed from the waist down.

“They told me I would never ride again. I was devastated. I just couldn’t believe that. Of course I was going to ride again. I would just have to figure out how.”

>

ON PAGE 44

CHECK US OUT ONLINE: profilesofexcellencecare.com

Nov. 2013

“It was a two to three foot ‘pow’ day. ‘Bluebird.’ It was great and I was stoked,” he said, retelling the events of the day. “We were using my i-phone to film and I was feeling really confident we were going to get some great CONTINUES shots.”

745-2349 or 746-2349

Determination drove him and he began to formulate a plan that would get him up on his feet, and more importantly in his mind, back on the seat of his sled. He poured himself into healing and physical therapy to rebuild strength and in

PLEASE CALL TODAY:

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

By Debra McGhan

He’d been taking some big drops successfully when he spotted one that was well over 100 feet. He made sure his friend was prepared to film and he headed up and launched himself off the edge.

Profiles of Excellence

18

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Nov. 2013

Community Valley Thanksgiving Blessing

Willow United Methodist Church Mile 67.5 Parks Highway, Willow 907-495-6638 Available to residents in zip code: 99688

Contributed by Janina Fuller

For information on how you can help contact:

Each year thousands of Valley families struggle to bring food to their family’s table.

This is especially difficult during the holidays. Many families often go without.

The Valley Thanksgiving Blessing was created to help provide Thanksgiving meals for families in need. The faith community in the Valley has partnered with the Food Bank of Alaska to serve these families by not only providing food, but showing love and kindness to our neighbors. Last year the Valley Blessing served over 2,000 families from Palmer to Talkeetna. There is a projected increase of more than 10% this year.

This year the Thanksgiving Blessing will take place on Saturday, November 23rd from 10am-4pm. There are six different distribution sites throughout the Valley. The distribution sites are determined by zip code. People who need help can call 211 to learn about the distribution site closest to them.

All sites distribute the same food: a turkey and all the fixings for every household.

This project is about putting faith into action and bringing people with different beliefs together toward a common goal: providing a Thanksgiving meal for families who might otherwise go without. Faith

groups in our community are working together to improve the lives of their neighbors.

The Blessing relies on volunteers to coordinate, raise funds, provide goods and services, and to create an overall atmosphere of service and good will in serving our neighbors. The end result of months of planning is seeing faith in action-hungry families leave the sites with food to help celebrate the holiday and the knowledge that their community cares about them.

Other Information: Distribution Sites:

(Please bring proof of address with you)

Faith Bible Fellowship 14159 W. Hollywood Rd, Big Lake 907-892-8545 Available to residents in zip code: 99652

Fellowship Lutheran Church Mile 1.1 Petersville Rd, Trapper Creek Available to residents in zip code: 99683 Wasilla Bible Church 1651 W. Nicola Avenue, Wasilla 907376-2176 Available to residents in zip codes: 99623, 99629, 99654, 99687, 99694 Real Life Church 10697 E. Palmer-Wasilla Hwy, Palmer 907-745-5673 Available to residents in zip codes: 99676, 99667 Upper Susitna Senior Center 16463 E. Helena Street, Talkeetna (Mile 98.5) Parks Hwy) 907-733-2710 Available to residents in zip code: 99688

In Wasilla: 376-2176 (Wasilla Bible Church) In Willow: 495-6638 (United Methodist Church) In Trapper Creek/Talkeetna: 7332710, Jenny (Fellowship/Upper Su Senior Center) In Palmer: 745-5673 (Real Life Church) In Big Lake: 892-8545 (Faith Bible Fellowship) If you would like to donate: Donate funds: $15 will buy a turkey, $45 will provide a complete Thanksgiving Dinner. Checks can be made out to Wasilla Bible Church. Make a note that it is for the Thanksgiving Blessing.

“Last year the Valley Blessing served over 2,000 families from Palmer to Talkeetna. There is a projected increase of more than 10% this year.”

“The Valley Thanksgiving Blessing was created to help provide Thanksgiving meals for families in need.

The faith community in the Valley has partnered with the Food Bank of Alaska to serve these families by not only providing food, but showing love and kindness to our neighbors.”

Education Mat-Su Health Foundation

A grant of $24,000 to Palmer Amateur Hockey Association will help fund two projects to benefit the community.

Part of the funds will be used to purchase cross-ice safety boards, and part will be used to build an outdoor hockey rink that will be open to the public at no charge.

Wasilla, AK— Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) recently awarded eight Healthy Impact grants totaling $685,705. Alpine Historical Society, Family Promise Mat-Su, Mat-Su Borough/Talkeetna Public Library and Community Resource Center, Palmer Amateur Hockey Association, Wasilla Area Seniors, Wasilla Youth Baseball, United Way Anchorage, and Upper Susitna Seniors, Inc. will receive grants supporting projects to improve the health and wellness of people living in the Mat-Su Borough.

Wasilla Area Seniors was awarded $120,000 for its “Continuing Care Community” project, which includes an industry needs assessment, industry/organization feasibility study, organizational strategic planning, and industry-specific business planning for the organization.

Announces Almost $700,000 In Grant Awards

Alpine Historical Society’s award of $72,930 will be used for construction of a community-build playground at Alpine Historical Park in Sutton.

Sutton presently has few opportunities for family-oriented health promotion activities, and the new playground will help remedy that.

Family Promise Mat-Su was awarded $195,500 to purchase their Nelson Ave. facility. This will reduce the organization’s overhead costs, allowing funds to be used directly to support and expand its mission of preventing homelessness.

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough requested and received $135,000 to help fund construction of a new 7,840 square foot Talkeetna Library/ Community Resource Center. The majority of the funding for this project came from the State of Alaska and the Mat-Su Borough.

Wasilla Youth Baseball will use its grant of $35,000 to construct a multi-function pavilion to be used to extend practice time for players at the beginning of the season when the fields are not yet available for use and to provide a covered space for ceremonial uses and for parents and families to sit during games.

A $68,875 grant to United Way Anchorage will allow the organization to establish a navigator position in the Mat-Su to guide consumers, small businesses and their employees as they look for health coverage options through the Health Insurance Marketplace. United Way Anchorage will partner closely with Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, Mat-Su Health Services and Sunshine Community Health Center on this project.

Upper Susitna Seniors Inc. will receive a grant of $34,400 to purchase a multiuse tractor and trailer. The tractor will include a front-mounted snow blower and enclosed cab. It will allow the organization to save on the cost of snow removal from its campus and will also be beneficial to the organization’s

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Home Again Décor & Cranberry Cottage move to

THE BOARDWALK SHOP MAKE THE BOARDWALK yOuR HOLiDAy gifT SHOP! Gifts, Accessories, Décor and More 701 E. Parks Hwy, in front of CARRS Wasilla // 357.8980

Meals on Wheels program, because there have been times in the past where some recipients were not able to receive their meals due to heavy snow accumulation. Volunteers will use the new tractor to clear snow for these home bound seniors.

Healthy Impact grants from the MatSu Health Foundation fund projects over $15,000 that improve the health and wellness of people living in the Mat-Su Borough. The application period for the next round of these grants will open on Dec. 2 and close on Jan. 10, 2014. Interested local nonprofit organizations can learn more at www.healthymatsu.org

907-357-PICK

ATTITUDES Sassy & Blingy Women’s Apparel !!! If you want bling, then come on in !!!

472 N Main St., Suite A, Wasilla 907-957-1869

> About Mat-Su Health Foundation: Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) is the official business name of Valley Hospital Association, Inc., which shares ownership in Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. In this capacity, the MSHF board members and representatives actively participate in the governance of Mat-Su’s community hospital and protect the community’s interest in this important healthcare institution through board oversight. The MSHF invests its assets into charitable works that improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in Mat-Su. More information is available at www. healthymatsu.org.

20

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Nov. 2013

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

PALMER-WASILLA HWY

21

COLONY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL SECTION

Carmen Summerfield Colony Christmas is an old fashioned three-day celebration of Christmaas past and present in Palmer that features horse-drawn sleigh rides, reindeer, gingerbread houses, and holiday carolers.

As part of the celebration, on Saturday, December 14, 2013 the Valley Arts Alliance will be producing their 6th Annual Ice Castles on the Green!

Ice Castles on the Green consists of

The Dahlia Street Market was built in the mid-1930’s as the colony’s Trading Post and Post Office. Palmer’s Mayor DeLena Johnson and her husband Steve purchased the abandoned building a few years ago and

> CONTINUES ON PAGE 24

November marks the 150th anniversary of the Gettysburg Address. Fireside Books will be celebrating Saturday, November 23 with trivial contests, civil war costume contests, and recitation contests. Start memorizing now!

Contributed by

unique winter ice sculptures created by some of the Valley’s best artists. Our sculptures will be constructed behind the Dahlia Street Market on the Palmer Green, the area in Palmer also known as the “quad” or “square” located between the Borough Office, the Colony Inn, and the Dahlia Street Market.

“Four score and seven years ago...”

The Art of Ice

Nov. 2013

Colony Christmas 2013

Christmas Open House at Raven Hall CHEF CAROL New OfferiNgs with guest:

Back door breakfast 7am Tuesdays thru Friday. Speedy breakfast, pastries and coffee to grab before work or play.

Quick new lunches ready and waiting Tuesdays Wine Flights and small plates 3-6pm Visiting Chefs Daily specials Sunday Brunch with mimosas 9am-2pm November 17th and 24th, December 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th.

Next Door to the Borough Building and Behind the Palmer Library tues-fri saturday sunday

7:00AM-8PM 5:00PM-8PM 9:00AM-2PM

320 e Dahlia Ave, Palmer

www.rustysatdahliastreet.com

The Fair plans to host a Christmas Open House at Raven Hall on Sunday, December 15 from 1 – 4 p.m.

This will be a family-friendly event open to everyone in the community.

Hobo Jim and Ken Peltier will cohost the event, which will feature

Christmas-inspired music and special guests, including Santa Claus and his reindeer and elves!

We’ll also have refreshments, photo opportunities with our spectacular holiday lighting as a backdrop, buggy/sleigh rides around the fairgrounds (weather permitting), special children’s activities and more.

> Watch our website,

alaskastatefair.org, for more information in early December.

Happy Holidays!

642 S. Alaska Street Downtown Palmer

Facepainting at Eagle Hotel brought to you by

Church on The Rock LOCAL ARTWORK ON DISPLAY Homemade Soups Quiche l Wraps l Paninis Fresh Green Salads l Sandwiches Baked Goods l Gluten Free Option Vegan Option l Espresso Smoothies l Free Wi-Fi Internet

The Palmer Church on the Rock is offering free face-painting and balloon animals on December 14, 2013 from noon to 4pm at the Eagle Hotel for the Palmer Colony Christmas.

We provided both of these booths at the Colony Days Event and it was great fun!

Open Mon-Sat 6am-8pm Sun 7am-6pm 907-745-CAFE (745-2233)

Lockhart & Erskine Holiday Garden Fine Personal & Household Furnishings Antique, Mid-Century, Vintage, One-of-a-Kind Designer Clothing Purses, Scarves, Jewelry Partyware & Partywear Gifts, Furniture & Much, Much More!

Tuesday thru Sunday 12-6 907-240-8116 EASTLAKE MALL BIG LAKE

$100 Paintings for Under $100 Valley Fine Arts Association Presents 100 Paintings for under $100 during Colony Christmas Dec. 13-14 at Madd Matters Gallery. All paintings are original works done by local artists.

Bring the kids for some artistic fun!

VFAA is a non-profit group in which members encourage fellow artists through workshops, demonstrations, paint-togethers, and art shows. We encourage new members to join us whether seasoned or just beginning.

> Check out our website

valleyfineartassociation.org for all pertinent information.

www.indianvalleymeats.com

FOR TWO UPCOMING EVENTS

December 6th & 14th

Mixer: Meet and Greet & Client Appreciation, hors d’oeuvres and in- shop sales with new up-cycled design pieces for preview.

Meet Charity of Alaska Chicks Co, Faith of The Vintage Poppy, Laura of Love Nugget Designs, Dale from The Upholstery Gallery, and our newest addition, Ginger of Ginger’s Junk.

Nov. 2013

Saturday 12/6, 11-4 pm:

907-746-4739 M-SAT 10:30-6PM

If so, change the sugar plu cookies with icing and join on Saturday, December 14 for the annual Colony Chri Activity.

> ART OF ICE CONTINUED restored it to glory. Now it hosts Palmer’s famous restaurant “Rusty’s” (where everyone is invited in for a “warm up” on Saturday afternoon during the Ice Castles on the Green).

Our centerpiece this year will be an ice sculpture based on the glass pyramids at the Louvre in Paris. We have other remarkable ice sculptures lined up, but we’re always looking for other talented artists to help us create unique ice sculptures at Ice Castles on the Green! So bring your own ice, in any shape or form, and help us build!

All children are invited to partake in the 4th annual Sugar Cookie Decorating Workshop, a free activity in conjunction with Colony Christmas.

Cookie Deco Workshop a

Are there visions of sugarp little one’s head?

Friday 12/6, from 6-8 pm:

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

18

Colony Christmas 2013 Visit CoverUps

Most of the ice sculpting will occur from 2 to 4pm, but visit us any time and watch the ice sculptures take shape! At 4pm we’ll have a drawing for an “artsy” prize. Tickets are FREE, and will be distributed throughout the day. And at 4:30, the Mat-Su Community Chorus will be caroling in the midst of our ice sculptures.

> So join us (and join in) on

December 14 as we create another wonderful Ice Castles on the Green!

Teresa Roy, owner , began for the younger crowd fou say “Thank You” to the com children in creating an ins of their own to enjoy.

The location at 840 S Colo excellent warm up station should smell authentically Approximately 300 sugar participant, were colorfully last year.

> With all the fun in the n

that this year will exceed a

orating at Cover Ups

plums dancing in your

ums to freshly baked sugar n the crew at Cover Ups 4th, from 11 am to 4 pm, istmas Cookie Decorating

n the popular, free event ur years ago as a way to mmunity and to engage stantly gratifying creation

ony Way is also an and visual treat. It y wonderful as well. cookies, one per y and artistically created

nearby area, it is with hope all our wishes.

United Way of Mat-Su brings you the

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE

7 pm The Best Christmas

ON SATURDAY FROM 11 AM – 4 PM

Lazy Mountain Bible Church

ENJOY

Pageant Ever

TO MANY EVENTS

16005 E. Shawn Dr.

COURTESY OF MAT-SU SENIOR SERVICES AND PIONEER EQUIPMENT

>

Thursday, Dec. 12

10 am-6 pm “Light Up A Life”

<

8 pm – Midnight Holiday Ball Benefiting United Way of Mat-Su

Raven Hall - Alaska State Fairgrounds, Glenn Highway

Hospice Tree

Koslosky’s Center - 642 S Alaska Street

>

Friday, Dec. 13

<

All Day View the Community Christmas Tree

Sponsored by Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union East end of Evergreen Ave at the Library 10 am – 6 pm Gingerbread Houses Sponsored by Alaska USA FCU Pioneer Home, 250 E Fireweed Various Downtown Businesses Look for a list at the Pioneer home 10 am – 6 pm “Light Up A Life” Hospice Tree

Koslosky’s Center - 642 S Alaska Street 11 am – 7 pm Christmas Bazaar Downtown Palmer Plaza Noon – 7 pm Arts & Craft Fair Sponsored by The Greatlander Palmer Depot 6 pm – 8 pm “Twas the Night Before Colony Christmas”

Reception & Wine Tasting Palmer Museum of History & Art, 723 S Valley Way 7 pm Annual Service of Remembrance Legacy Kehl’s Palmer Chapel 209 S. Alaska St

>

Saturday, Dec. 14

All Day View the Community

<

Christmas Tree

Sponsored by MVFCU

2013 Holiday Ball Come join us for a night filled with dancing, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, “It’s In the Bag” Silent Auction & fun!

LIVE MUSIC BY: THE CONNECTION

At the Library

December 13th, 2013

9 am – 11 am Lions Club

8:00 pm - Midnight

Salvation Army, 209 W Evergreen Avenue

Raven Hall (State Fairgrounds) Palmer, AK

Pancake Breakfast

10 am – 3 pm Festival of Trees Drawings held at 2 pm Benefits the Special Santa Program Sponsored by Ohana Media Group Palmer Depot 10 am – 4 pm Craft Bazaar Mat-Su Seniors Services (Palmer Sr. Ctr), 1132 S Chugach St 10 am – 4 pm Palmer Museum of History and Art Open 723 S Valley Way 10 am – 4 pm Kids Activity Events & Warm-Up Station

Frost a Christmas Cookie Cover-Ups, 840 S Colony Way 10 am – 4:45 pm Information Booth Palmer Depot 10 am – 5 pm Cookies, Cider, Movies & Cartoons

Palmer Museum of History & Art

Tickets are $50 per person $350 for a table of 8.

Get Your Ticket TODAY at: unitedwaymatsu.org

Colony Christmas 2013 >

Saturday, Dec. 14

<

10 am – 6 pm Gingerbread Houses Sponsored by Alaska USA FCU Pioneer Home, 250 E Fireweed Avenue 10 am – 6 pm Colony House Museum Open House

Presented by the Palmer Historical Society 10 am – 6 pm Snow Bike Demo – Free HalfHour Test Rides

All-Day Store Sale Backcountry Bike & Ski, 132 W Arctic Ave 10 am – 7 pm Arts & Craft Fair Sponsored by The Greatlander Palmer Depot

10 am – 7 pm Arts & Crafts Fair Borough Gym, 350 E Dahlia Avenue 10 am – 7 pm Information Booth Borough Gym Foyer, 350 E Dahlia Ave 10 am – 7 pm “Light Up A Life” Hospice Tree Koslosky’s Center - 642 S Alaska Street 11 am – 2 pm Cookie Contest Sponsored by MEA

Eagle Hotel, 918 S. Colony Way 11 am – 2 pm Warming Station Free Hot Chocolate & Kids Movies Presented by Greg & Sherri Shepard – Jack White Real Estate Palmer Library, 655 S Valley Way 11 am – 3 pm Kids Puck Shoot with Prizes Hot Chocolate, Popcorn, Extra Parking NAPA, 217 E Arctic Ave 11 am – 3 pm Denali Destroyer Dolls Holiday Hair

Downtown Palmer Plaza – 550 S Alaska St 11 am – 3 pm Photos with Santa Sponsored by IBEW Local 1547

Downtown Palmer Plaza Deli – 550 S Alaska St 11 am – 3 pm FREE kids T-Shirt Coloring Silvertip Design, 421 S. Alaska St. 11 am – 4 pm Alaska Sound Celebration Christmas Caroling around Palmer

\11 am – 4 pm Learn About Mushing & Meet the Dogs

Presented by Northern Lights Adventures Palmer Museum of History & Art 723 S Valley Way 11 am – 4 pm Make a FREE Fused Glass Ornament or Suncatcher

Presented by Half Moon Creek 439 W. Elmwood Ave 11 am – 4 pm Free Pony Wheel Rides Sponsored by Capstone Family Medicine, Eye Clinic and Urgent Care Friday Fling parking lot across from the Palmer Museum 11 am – 4 pm Bike-Themed Sleigh Photo Station

Backcountry Bike & Ski, 132 W Arctic Ave 11 am – 7 pm Nativity Displays LDS Church - 560 W Arctic Ave 11 am – 7 pm Christmas Bazaar Downtown Palmer Plaza Noon – 3 pm Build Your Own Marshmallow Snowman & Free Hot Chocolate

Sponsored by Mat-Su Regional Medical Center Eagle Hotel, 918 S. Colony Way Noon – 3 pm Free Kids Games Presented by CCS Early Learning Palmer Depot – Outside Noon – 4 pm Free Kids Face Painting & Balloon Animals

Presented by Church on the Rock Eagle Hotel, 918 S. Colony Way Noon – 4 pm Snow Machine Sled Rides Presented by Alaska Backcountry Adventure Tours Open area next to Colony Inn Noon – 4 pm Free Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides Sponsored by Usibelli Coal Mine Pavilion across from Palmer Museum 12:30 pm – 1 pm Alaska Sound Celebration Concert

Pioneer Home, 250 E Fireweed Avenue

Schedule of Events 1 pm – 4 pm Reindeer Farm, petting, feeding and photos

Sponsored by Wells Fargo Wells Fargo Parking Lot, S Alaska St 1 pm – 4 pm Chain Saw Artistry Demonstration Chickadees, 175 W Arctic Ave 2 pm – 4 pm Color & Take Home a FREE Alaskan Ornament

NuKreationz, 735 S. Bailey St. 2 pm – 4 pm “Ice Castles on the Green” Ice Sculpture Carving

Free Prize Drawing at 4 pm Presented by Valley Arts Alliance Right behind Rusty’s, 320 E Dahlia Street in the Historic District 2 pm – 6 pm Meet & Greet Renowned Artist Gail Niebrugge

The Gallery, 1150 S Colony Way (in the Key Bank Plaza) 2:30 pm Youth Mitten Money Scramble Presented by CCS Early Learning Palmer Depot – Outside 2:30 pm – 4 pm Smoosh Race Sponsored by Mat-Su Regional Medical Center 742 S Alaska St. (in front of the Depot) 4 pm – 8 pm Free Parking, Chili Feed, Hot Beverages, Cookies

Children’s Crafts &Student Art Show

>

Sunday, December 15

<

Every thing you need is available at...

All Day View the Community Christmas Tree Sponsored by MVFCU East end of Evergreen Ave at the Library 9 am – 10:30 am Triathlon Registration Sponsored by Mat-Su Health Foundation Presented by The Alaska Club 12051 E Palmer Wasilla Highway 10 am – 2 pm Palmer Museum of History and Art

723 S Valley Way 10 am – 6 pm “Light Up A Life” Hospice Tree Koslosky’s Center, 642 S Alaska Street 11 am Triathlon Race Starts Sponsored by Mat-Su Health Foundation

GREAT ADD-ONS FOR

GATHERINGS, CELEBRATIONS AND FESTIVITIES

Fabulous Oils

Presented by The Alaska Club 12051 E Palmer Wasilla Highway Noon – 8 pm Palmer Pioneer Hockey Steak Feed

Moose Lodge, 1136 S Cobb Street, Tickets $15 available at door.

1 pm – 4 pm Christmas Open House At Raven Hall Presented by The Alaska State Fair Alaska State Fairgrounds 2 pm – 7 pm Nativity Display LDS Church - 560 W Arctic Ave

Alaska Bible College, 248 E Elmwood Ave 4:30 pm and 6 pm Mat-Su Community Chorus will perform near the Ice Sculptures Right behind Rusty’s, 320 E Dahlia Street in the Historic District 5 pm Parade of Lights, Sponsored by MTA Downtown Palmer 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Local Entertainer Diana Z plus Belly Dance Showcase at 6 pm FREE treats, Midnight Sun Yoga Center 832 S. Colony Way 6:30 pm FIREWORKS Extravaganza Sponsored by BP Library Parking Lot

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

Colony Christmas 2013 Nov. 2013

Enjoy the season!

CZAR of GUITARS'

Annual Food Drive

CZAR of GUITARS’ Food Drive “Because no one should go hungry”

November 15 - December 14

CZAR of GUITARS, 105 E Arctic Avenue in downtown Palmer, is hosting its annual food drive for the MatSu Food Bank. The event is from November 15 to December 14. Donations should be dropped off at CZAR of GUITARS on Wednesdays or Thursdays from 12 - 7 pm and Fridays or Saturdays from 12 - 5 pm.

Donate three or more nonperishable food items and receive a free set of DR Guitar Strings. *Limited quantities.

> All food donated will be distributed in the CZAR of GUITARS 105 E Arctic Ave Palmer, AK 99645 907-745-5550

Mat-Su Valley. "Because no one should go hungry." Call CZAR of GUITARS at 907-745-5550 907-745-5550

Hours Wed. & Thu. 12-7pm Fri. & Sat. 12-5pm

Inside the Downtown Palmer Plaza 550 S. Alaska St., Palmer, STE 110

matsu.alaska.edu/spring-2014-course-schedule/

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Register now for the Spring 2014 Semester!

Current job openings at Mat-Su College Adjunct Faculty Positions:

Staff Positions:

Education – Early Childhood—Posting #067623

Director of Business Services – Posting #0067761

Computer Systems Technology—Posting #0067576

Faculty Positions:

12-Lead and ACLS—Posting #0067575

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Mathematics

Emergency Medical Technician—Posting #0067498

Posting #0067722

Dance—Posting #0066996 Communication—Posting #0067468

matsu.alaska.edu

Natural Sciences—Posting #0067744

Full vacancy announcements and the online application are available at www.uakjobs.com MSC is an EEO/AA employer and educational institution.

Music Adele's New Children's CD:

Dance & Dream

Kids songs that parents will love!

Seven upbeat dance tunes and three "slow down" and "be still" songs. In this recording you will hear Adele's passion and love for children. It's the perfect blend of her clear pure vocals, combined with some of the best musicians in Nashville and talented young Alaskan singers.

A Little About the Artist:

Adele Morgan is an Alaskan singer/songwriter, producer, and inspirational speaker. She is currently an Artist Associate with World Vision, a humanitarian organization that helps children worldwide. Adele calls Wasilla, AK her home and is a wife, mother and grandmother. Her music encourages and empowers the listener. From Alaska to Africa, Adele continues to entertain and inspire audiences from around the world.

> More info at

www.adelemorgan.com

Nov. 2013

Dance and Dream is her 5th fulllength album project. Her version of cover songs, Put A Little Love in Your Heart/Lean on me medley, will certainly have you and your kids up and dancing. The title track, 'Dance & Dream' is an original lullaby that will both sooth and relax the whole family.

Adele has written eight original tunes on this project that you will be singing along with in no time.

With her 'hooky' melodies and lyrics that are inspirational, encouraging and positive, you will want your children to listen to this album again and again!

If you missed her CD Release Party, Adele will be signing her new Children's CD at 'Just Imagine Toys' in Wasilla on Wednesday, the 20th of November from 4-6.

About the NEW CD:

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Foreign Languages—Posting #0067467

30 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Nov 2013

MyHouse

MYHouse Volunteers Make a Difference

By Charity Lovelace

Media coverage of homeless youth usually focuses on heart-rending stories of homeless youth living in make-shift camps or perhaps inspiring stories of youth finding victory over homelessness by securing employment that results in signing a rental agreement on a first apartment.

But as a Board Member and full-time volunteer at MYHouse, a non-profit that provides services for homeless youth, I hear stories everyday of not only the homeless youth we serve,

but also of the volunteers who make up the MYHouse community.

With no paid staff, MYHouse is entirely driven by the generosity of local volunteers who sacrifice hours of their time to serve homeless youth. In 2012 more than 12,000 volunteer hours were donated to forward the MYHouse mission.

That is equivalent to SIX full-time positions! Since moving into our new youth center,

One of my duties as a Board member entails perusing the applications of candidates wishing to become involved in our organization. In follow-up interviews, I learn of their passion, experiences, and personal stories that led them to us. One of these volunteers was herself a homeless youth who went on to become a successful dental assistant. She now desires to “give back” the help she received and will be assisting with our Street Outreach program.

The Gathering Place, we have extended our programming Another volunteer was a student requiring an even larger volunteer at Burchell High School when force. The community response to MYHouse was founded by guidance that need has been overwhelming. We counselor, Michelle Overstreet. She have approximately 60 applications observed firsthand the struggles of in process with more candidates Burchell’s homeless youth and was walking through the front CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE door on a daily basis.

>

MyHouse

20% OFF WITH MENTION OF THIS AD

> VOLUNTEERS MAKE A

DIFFERENCE CONTINUED determined to make a difference once she graduated. One recent supporter was a mother grieving the loss of her son and wanting to insure that MYHouse youth received needed services.

My House:

Friday Night Live

By Joseph Hartman

show, stirring emotions in the spell bound audience. All in all, I feel that everyone in the room bonded in one way or another with each other and therefore their community.

One of our most dedicated volunteers is Alice Renfro, Director of Nutrition Services and our Culinary Trainer. Alice is a lifelong Alaskan and a culinary school trained master chef.

She is one of the very first to arrive at The Gathering Place and often the last to leave, putting in 12 hour days to provide nutritional hot meals for homeless youth. She provides many of the homemade goodies for sale at the Gathering Grounds café, which hires MYHouse youth.

There were about 40 people at the Gathering Grounds cafe on November 8th at 6:30PM. Among the audience were poets, guitarists, singers, dancers, rappers, and of course, the cafe baristas. At 7:00PM emcee Joseph Hartman took to the stage welcoming the audience and performers and encouraged them to signup on the clipboard. The show began, and for over two hours about 13 different people entertained themselves as well as the audience with some time on a sound system (provided by Matanuska Music) getting their feet wet performing to an audience, yet also exposing the deep places of humanity where art and inspiration reside.

Be a part of the experience! On the 1st Friday of every month you are invited to attend as both an audience member and performer. Make room on your calender and rehearse your performance in a mirror or with a pet, or a friend. Then pal on down to Gathering Grounds cafe for an evening of heartfelt entertainment in an atmosphere that is sober, friendly, and intimate.

The high schoolers, adults, and families laughed, cried (yes cried!), shouted, sang-along, listened and applauded together at MY HOUSE’s Friday Night Live. Highlights of the show included the debut performance of Hip-Hop rapper Kid Kong laying down his own beats and going with his flow, f’sho. I played quite a few songs of my own creation, which was exhilarating!

The poets from Lisa Boswell’s class added significant variety to the

The next MY HOUSE Friday Night Live will be on Dec. 6 starting at 7:00PM and ending at 9:30PM at Gathering Grounds cafe.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.”

To reserve time for your performance email MyHouse1stFriday@gmail.com with a brief description and any prevalent information (length of act, preferred times, requested materials or questionable/explicit content).

MYHouse has been blessed with just such a group of people. We are grateful for the support of this community and confident that with their assistance, we can indeed make a difference for the homeless youth of the Mat-Su Valley.

Gathering Grounds cafe is located at 300 N. Willow Street in Wasilla Open 7:00AM-4:00PM get a favorite beverage and homemade snacks while you check email on WI-FI.

In addition, she is the culinary trainer for MYHouse’s vocational training program passing on her impressive cooking skills to the next generation.

Alice’s dedication (and her caramel cinnamon rolls) are legendary and have caused her to be a great favorite with both hungry youth and café patrons. Margaret Mead once said,

490 s. knik goose bay rd.

907.252.9584

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Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Nov. 2013

SIDE KICKS GIFTS, TLC & MORE In ThE hISTORIC KOSLOSKy CEnTER, In DOwnTOwn paLMER Proud Supporter of My House Mat-Su with a TLC Closet for homeless youth in the Valley. Donations always welcome!

Our family-owned and operated Ultimate Gift Store including: Christian books, DVDs, CDs and Home DĂŠcor, Baby, Toys, Local Handcrafts, Jewelry & Accessories, Novelties and Candy, Sox Trot and Solmate Socks and Much More!

OVER 17 yEaRS In paLMER

746-4438

MyHouse Baking at Gathering Grounds When you think of the holidays, what comes to mind? Perhaps the smell of warm dinner rolls, Carmel cinnamon rolls and pies?

At the Gathering Grounds, part of My House project, we're branching out and baking wonderful treats for you to purchase for the holidays.

Why don't you let us do the baking for you this holiday season?

Everything is homemade ( $7.00 per dozen dinner rolls, $3.50 per Carmel Cinnamon Rolls or $18.00 per half dozen, $12.00 for Pumpkin, Apple or Cream Pies).

Please call Alice at 315-9819 to pre-order your items. Prepayment is required for all orders.

Stop by the Gathering Grounds (corner of Herning and Willow) 300 N Willow, and speak with Alice.

She will need about 48 hours notice to have your items ready for pick-up.

Community

Big Lake

Holiday Bazaar

By Linda Lockhart With all the hubbub of the season, how about a relaxed afternoon (or two) visiting the VERY friendly merchants and vendors in the heart of Big Lake at the Lions Holiday Bazaar? Saturday (10am to 6pm) and Sunday (11am to 5pm), December 7 & 8, the Eastlake Mall in Big Lake will host one of the best bazaars in the Valley. With over 50 unique vendors and 8 anchor merchants there will be many wonderful things to choose from. All nice and cozy warm, indoors with plenty of free parking!

Of course, between all of the merchants at the Eastlake Mall, there will be a wonderful, unique group of vendors that (at press-time) include, Eagle River Photo (keep reading for more great info about holiday photos from these pros), Fossils and Ivory by Felix Rouse, Dolls and Dresses by Dianne Duseck, representatives from Pampered Chef, Homesteaders Community Center, Scentsy, Original Owl Custom Jewelry and Salmon Mosaics. Try some homemade chocolates or fudge, pick up some handmade cards, quilts, quilted products, doggie cookies & treats, specialty Christmas children's wear, custom notecards and lots more. Then you can have it all wrapped up for the holiday by a youth group that is raising money toward an educational trip to Washington D.C. Start your day at the Big Lake Family Restaurant with a superb breakfast.

(BLFR has a new owner–with a great, new menu). They open at 7am so you can be sure to start early–you don't want to miss the opening of the bazaar at 10am. Plus, you can peruse the menu for lunch or dinner and visit a second time if the mood strikes you!

Since the bazaar starts at 10am on Saturday, and 11am on Sunday, you will find that most of the stores at the mall

will be open during these hours as well.

The Eastlake Mall is small, but packed with a unique mix of merchants. Pop into Neighborhood Video and Tanning for a tan, choose from a wide selection of lotions, peruse the DVDs for sale or become a member and rent the latest DVDs or BlueRay releases. They also feature many older DVDs and if you rent a new release they throw in an older one for free.

Next door is The Crystal Mandala and All About Me Jewelry. This is now THE location for beaders and crystal enthusiasts in the Valley. They feature a huge selection of glass beads, semiprecious stones, findings of all kinds, charms, chains and tools to create your own masterpiece, and even classes to teach you how. Be sure to see the amazingly beautiful crystals, fossils, stone bowls, dream catchers, custom jewelry and lots more. If all your shopping is making you hungry for lunch (or dinner), Aardvark Catering and Pizza Thyme Restaurant is just a few steps away. Everything they serve is made from scratch, so it is super fresh and delicious every time you order.

Burgers to pizza to fine dining–Pizza Thyme also has a wonderful selection of beer and wine to accompany your meal.

Around the corner, but worth the search is Amazing Sewing Creations. ASC has a wide range of handmade and customdesigned pieces for holiday giving that includes hats, quilts, fleece throws, doggie coats, custom tie-dyed t-shirts and socks (in cotton and bamboo).

Aprons, soft-warm robes, purses, jewelry, and perfumes round-out their generous selection.

Donna's Corner is always worth the trip to Big Lake (even without the bazaar!). Check out the super selection of giftware, beautiful holiday gowns, rent a tux (if you want to REALLY look good for that holiday party), check out the selection of beautiful jewelry, cards, and of course, the incredible wedding dresses and everything you could

imagine that goes with them.

Next door to Donna's is the Lockhart & Erskine Holiday Garden. Check out the great selection of designer clothing, purses, shoes, estate, vintage and custom jewelry, watches, new and abused furniture, lamps, boxes and more. And of course, our famous (made in Big Lake) fruit-flavored balsamic vinegar sauces, herb blend, and teas. We have invited Eagle River Photo to set up their studio in our shop Friday, December 6 through Monday, December 9. Friday and Monday you may bring your special 4-footed kids in for photos! Saturday and Sunday will be dedicated to holiday family, children and costume photos.

At the far end of the mall–on the south side–(around the corner, so to speak–just ask any of the merchants for guidance) you will find the Lakeshore Studio, operated by Lakeshore Entertaining and Event Management.

More Holiday vendors will be featured during the bazaar in this charming space which is also available for your holiday get-togethers and parties. Call Ina Meuller at 907-230-0935 to book your party space now.

Also on the south side of the building you will find Nails by Char–make some time to get a mani-pedi while you are here! Don't forget to visit the friendliest grocery in the Valley. Now the Big Lake IGA, (but alway's "Steve's" to those of us who have been here for any length of time) Saturday and Sunday are always super sale days and the best time to shop for bargains on USDA Choice cuts of meat, dairy, canned and Deli selections. Don't leave Big Lake without a visit to the IGA!

> Please join us for a fun in Big Lake at the Eastlake Mall

Big Lake is only about 10 minutes from Wasilla . . .

Come see how much fun we have in our little town, we'll make you feel right at home!

Nov. 2013

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

34

Community A Colony House Christmas Toys that teach and inspire!

Phone: 907-357-1543 Mon-Fri: 10 to 7 Saturday: 10 to 6 Sunday: 1 to 5

Uncle Goose Alphabet Blocks Made in Michigan

Winter quietly approaches as we enjoy the balmy days of lingering autumn… and in a mere six weeks our home town will again be decked out in Colony Christmas holiday festivities!

The Colony House Museum’s OPEN HOUSE will join in ‘celebrating the season’ on Saturday, December 14, with doors open from 10:00 a.m. and throughout the day until 6:00 p.m. (allowing time to bundle up for the colors and sparkle of the Palmer Chamber of Commerce’s winter fireworks display on the quad! Always magical!).

The Colony House Museum OPEN HOUSE will offer both traditional and unexpected surprises, all wrapped in the holiday spirit!

Look for Palmer Historical Society President Sheri’s creativity as you enjoy Colony House Museum’s seasonal decorations!

Hospitality, sweet treats, and a ‘hot cuppa’ will await visitors in the kitchen. Museum collection archivist Carol Lombardo, and docents led by Barb Thomas, will be there to share historical tidbits of the Matanuska Colony and of the Museum restoration and function.

Thanks to our Palmer Historical Society and Colony House Museum baking elves, a tempting array of holiday goodies traditionally await Bake Sale shoppers. The elves are heart and soul of CHM hospitality and provide ‘home for the holidays’ ambiance to all.

In the afternoon (2:00-4:00ish), carolers will gather around the authentic Colony piano. Don’t miss this if you love to sing! Old and newer

carols and songs will be harmonized, likely more than once, as we celebrate the season in this traditional way.

The Colony House Museum Christmas tree will be laden with old and older ornaments ~ perhaps you may wish to add another vintage piece to the collection. Visitors may find craft treasures or stocking stuffers throughout the Museum.

As always, the Colony House Museum has a nice assortment of local history related books, booklets, DVD’s, etc. which may provide help to your holiday shopping list.

We’ll be readying the Colony House Museum for OPEN HOUSE the week of December 9-13. Treats, treasures and the like may be dropped off early (call 745-1935 to make certain someone is there).

There may be weather challenges by then, adding to the list of errands and chores. Please call Sheri at 232-6621, Barb T at 376-5802, or Gerry at 7453703 to check in with any questions or input.

May the season treat you gently and bring blessings your way!

Community Events at Palmer Museum of History and Art As we begin to see the Valley illuminated with twinkle lights and covered with a blanket of snow, the staff at the Palmer Museum of History and Art is working night and day to bring you some exciting events as we begin to approach the final days of 2013.

To start things off, we will be presenting our last temporary exhibit for the year entitled Living the Life: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. This special exhibit is in honor of Native American Heritage month and will begin on November 20th and will be on display through the end of the year until January 4th, 2014.

album or hidden stacks that best embodies the spirit of Christmas. All photographs must have been taken in the 20th century, between 1901 and 2000. We will be awarding prizes for the best three photographs submitted and all photographs submitted will be on display at the museum throughout Colony Christmas. To learn more about the contest rules please visit our museum web-site at www. palmermuseum.org or look for the entry form on the Palmer Chamber web-site at www.palmerchamber.org.

On Friday, December 13th, from 6:00 to 8:00PM we will be hosting our annual Christmas reception “Twas the Night Before Colony Christmas.” The evening

The exhibit is comprised of art work from three talented Alaska Native artists: Moses Wassilie, a notable Yup’ik artist who has been creating artwork and performing music through the Alaska Native Heritage Center’s artist in residence program since 2000; June Pardue, an Alutiq and Inupiaq artist with works in private collections throughout the world, and Benjamin Schleifman, a very talented Tlingit artist who continues to share his art work and native heritage with Alaskan communities.

In December, as part of Palmer’s Colony Christmas festivities, the Palmer Museum has a few exciting events planned. First, we will be hosting a twentieth century holiday photography contest entitled Christmas Remembered.

We are inviting the community to submit a photograph from their family

1873 E Parks Hwy, Wasilla (907) 373-2171 www.alaskawildberryproducts.com

> CONTINUES ON PAGE 45

Located across the street from Wal-Mart 1265 S. Seward Meridian Parkway, Wasilla, AK

907.376.5284

HOURS OF OPERATION M-F. 5 am - 7 pm Sat. 6 am - 7 pm Sun. 6 am - 6 pm

Early Bird Special every morning until 8 am

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Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Nov. 2013

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

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

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

Lisa Byrd, 892-6114 mvscadmin@mtaonline.net

FAMILIES & CHILDREN Alaska Family Services

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

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

LINKS Mat-Su Parent Resource Center.

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

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

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

MYHouse Homeless Teen Shelter in the Matsu

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

Family Promise Mat-Su

Provides a shelter for families without housing.

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

Applications are available on our website.

357-6160, www.familypromisematsu.org

The Children’s Place

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

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

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska

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

Alaska Center for Resource Families

Provides support, training and education for foster, relative and adoptive families caring for children that have been abused and neglected. ACRF also helps support the Mat-Su Grandparents Support

Group in collaboration with Links and Volunteers of America. For more information about foster care and adopting children that are in the OCS child protection system visit our website www.acrf.org or call 376-4678.

376-4678, bwoodin@nwresource.org

Pillows for Kids Foundation

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

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

Valerie Koivunen pillowsforkids@gmail.com

The Moose Boosters Wrestling Club

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

Michelle Heun 355-7099

Set Free Alaska

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

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

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

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

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

This unique program helps people locally.

Donations are accepted, to further the program.

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

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

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

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

Check us out on Facebook.

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

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

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

We are a grade IV competing, family-oriented Pipe Band, established in 2005, and we are very active in supporting our community with music at parades, concerts, and special events. Our purpose is to advance the rich cultural heritage of Great Highland Bagpipe music, and to have FUN doing it! ACPD provides free instruction in piping and drumming, with Band practice to follow, every Friday evening at 5:00 and 5:45 pm at Eagle River Presbyterian Church, 12836 Old Glenn Highway, in Eagle River.

Phenomenal!

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

Radio Free Palmer

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

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

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

Valley Fine Arts Association

VFAA was formed to teach techniques, and encourage fellowship among visual artists in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. we strive to promote a supportive attitude toward visual arts in our Alaskan community.

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

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

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

Mat-Su Community Chorus, Inc.

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

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

together through music and to continue our standard of excellence.

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

Nan Potts 745-8788 matsucomchours@gmail.com

Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums of Eagle River

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

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

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

Mat-Su Concert Band, Inc.

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

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

The Whirling Rainbow Foundation

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

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

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

Valley Performing Arts

We’re celebrating 36 years of Quality Live Theatre!

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

Purchase your tickets online or from our office.

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

373-0195, www.valleyperformingarts.org

Valley Arts Alliance

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

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

We work with local libraries, schools, museums,

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

ANIMALS AK Cat Kitty Rescue

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

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

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

Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue (ADPR)

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

745-7030 adpr03@yahoo.com

Alaska Assistance Dogs (Aad)

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

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

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

Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary

Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary has provided shelter and care for unwanted pet rabbits since 2001. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable corporation. Rabbits are taken in when space is

available. They are evaluated for behavior and personality, spayed/neutered, then adopted to new pet homes. Bunnies not able to be adopted are maintained permanently at the sanctuary.

Responsible adult volunteers are always needed.

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

VARIETY The Sertoma Club - Wasilla

We host the Mat Su Polar Plunge raising funds for non-profits in the Matanuska Susitna Valley, Alaska. February 2011 we saw 85 jumpers raise almost $20,000 which was then given to the Food Pantry of Wasilla and Turn A Leaf Thrift Stores. The Food Pantry provides emergency food supplies to families in need. Turn A Leaf has a medical lending equipment program which is now organized with software purchased with funds received. Both were grant recipients from the Mat Su Sertoma Club. Grant applications for the 2012 Mat Su Polar Plunge are located on our website: www. matsuplunge.com.

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

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

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

TOPS

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

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

Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS)

Our mission is to educate and provide opportunities in our community to reduce, reuse, and recycle for the long-term good of all.

Our vision is to establish the Mat-Su Borough as a model recycling community for Alaska. We are open for residential recycling Wednesday through Friday 12-6pm and Saturday 11-3pm. Businesses can call ahead for hours. Your permanent community recycling center is located in our new green building at 9465 E. Chanlyut Circle, next to

the animal shelter at the Central Landfill. Volunteer opportunities available. community@valleyrecycling.org www.valleyrecycling.org, 745.5544

government agencies to render assistance.

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

Valley Residential Services (VRS)

OUTDOORS

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

(907) 357-0256 , valleyres.org

Alaska Attachment & Bonding Associates (AABA)

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

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

Food Pantry of Wasilla

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

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

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

We offer two food programs to residents of the Mat-Su Valley. We operate a community-supplied food pantry, accepting cash and food donations from individuals and groups and supply clients with food for nutritionally-balanced meals to help people get back on their feet.

We also administer distribution of TEFAP government commodities. TEFAP is (The Emergency Food Assistance Program). This is a needs-based program, which Nov. be accessed monthly by any client who meets the governmentestablished-qualifications. Food distributed is based on availability and instructions from USDA. In case of emergencies such as fire or earthquake in the valley, the Food Pantry of Wasilla also cooperates with other organizations and

North America Outdoor Institute

The North America Outdoor Institute (NAOI) is a not-for-profit community outreach organization providing outdoor safety and environmental awareness education programs for the general public in an effort to save lives from preventable outdoor injuries and deaths. Debra McGhan, debra@naoiak.org 376-2898 , www.naoiak.org

Alaskans for Palmer Hay Flats

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

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

Alaska Frontier Trappers Association

The Alaska Frontier Trappers Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the ethical and lawful practice of trapping Alaska’s fur bearers.

We work to educate fellow trappers, children and the public in general about trapping as a necessary wildlife management and research tool.

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

CONSERVATION

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

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

Wasilla Soil & Water Conservation District (WSWCD)

The WSWCD is a non-profit formed in 1948 to assist landowners & land managers with conservation & development on land through technical assistance, projects & education programs & services. WSWCD is an active, yearround community-based organization; a nonregulatory agency; a strong partner with various government & non-profit agencies/groups; a credible, knowledgeable advocate for conserving soil & water resources supported by the time & energy of neighbors & volunteers dedicated to making a positive difference in their communities. Our priorities are: Salmon enhancement & restoration; Soil, forage crops & manure testing; Stream & lake bank stabilization; Water quality & instream flows; Arbor Day activities & tree planting; Invasive weed assessments – land & water; Trail use & salmon stream crossings; Cooperator & community conservation needs; Public information, involvement & education.

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

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

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

38 29th Anniversary Open House Friday, Nov 9 9 am-6pm 29th Anniversary Open House Town Square Art Gallery Free Town Square Art Gallery 907-376-0123 Veterans Appreciation Potluck Mid-Valley Senior Center 11975 Mid Valley Way, Houston AK ALL are welcome…

November 15, 2013 @ 5:00pm Bring a picture of yourself in uniform.

Door Prizes Questions? Comment?

Call Lisa at; 892-6114 10th Annual Christmas Bazaar Trinity Lutheran Church Mile 2.2 Palmer-Wasilla Highway Saturday, December 7th, 2013, 10 am to 4 pm Handcrafted items and food items for sale. 745-0726 Jihad Jones and the Kalashnikov Babes Fri, February 14 - Sun March 2 Thurs, Fri & Sat - 7pm : Sun 3pm Cyrano’s Theatre Company 413 D Street 18-20 www.CenterTix.net Cyrano’s Theatre Company 907-274-2599 www.cyranos.org A Star for Ray Mala Mon, November 5 6:30pm Cyrano’s Theatre Company 413 D Street Free Cyrano’s Theatre Company 907-274-2599 www.cyranos.org Meet Alaskan artist Barbara Lavallee Sat, Nov 29 1pm-4pm Town Square Art Gallery Carrs Wasilla Mall, 591 E Parks Hwy #406 (Wasilla) Free Town Square Art Gallery 907-376-0123 6 th Annual month long X-Mass Bazaar (new location) Fri,Nov 29 thru Tues, Dec 24 10am-7pm This & That Crafts & Antiques 991 Hermon rd. Wasilla Ak 99654 Free 907-376-8711 Upper Room Arts Student Art Show Sat, Dec. 14th- Fri. Jan, 3rd 8am-8pm Colony Christmas Downtown Palmer Plaza 907-355-2428 www.upperroomarts/blogspot.com 907-355-2428 tina2fish@gmail.com Saturday, Nov. 16 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Machetanz Elementary School, Wasilla, UAF will host GeoFest, a family-friendly celebration of Geography Awareness Week. This free event includes hands-on educational and fun activities.

For more information, contact Katie

Kennedy, 907-474-6121 or cmkennedy@ alaska.edu.

Lorie Kirker and Lynette Lehn, owners of the “ Alaskana Book Store” in Palmer.

Mat-Su Youth Orchestra Rehearsals Every Thursday 6pm-7pm Shaw Elementary School 3750 E. Paradise Lane Wasilla, AK $25 to register Open to intermediate level string players. Kai West 907-373-3422

Mat Su Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast Saturday, October 12, 2013 8 am to 10 AM Mat-Su Family Restaurant $10.00 per individual - responsible for own breakfast Just purchase at the door Edna DeVries and those concerned about our country 907-745-3388

jennifer.summers@yahoo.com Winter Solstice Festival of Lights 2013 Fri, December 20 - Sat, December 21 Fri, 11am-6pm - Sat, 10am-6pm Winter Solstice Festival of Lights 2013 Palmer Train Depot/Downtown Palmer Free Raven Wi’ & Mike Borgford 907-354-7290 Winter Solstice Festival of Lights 2013 Fri, December 20 - Sat, December 21 Fri, 11am-6pm - Sat, 10am-6pm Winter Solstice Festival of Lights 2013 Palmer Train Depot/Downtown Palmer Free N/A Raven Wi’ & Mike Borgford 907-354-7290 907-745-7290 ravenwi@mtaonline.net Colony Drama presents Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein Colony High Theatre @ 9550 Colony Schools Drive Fridays and Saturdays Nov 8, 9 & 15, 16 @ 7:00PM $7 students/seniors, military; $10 adult ($40 max per family) Colony Drama Brian Mead: brian.mead@matsuk12.us Colony Drama presents Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein Colony High Theatre @ 9550 Colony Schools Drive Fridays and Saturdays Nov 8, 9 & 15, 16 @ 7:00PM $7 students/seniors, military; $10 adult ($40 max per family) Colony Drama Brian Mead: brian.mead@ matsuk12.us 10th Annual Christmas Bazaar Trinity Lutheran Church Mile 2.2 Palmer-Wasilla Highway Saturday, December 7th, 2013, 10 am to 4 pm Handcrafted items and food items for sale.

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

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

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

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

Sat, Steptember 28, 2013, 8pm 621 W 6th Ave $20-42, www.CenterTix.net 907-274-8668 www.AnchorageSymphony.org Palmer Historical Society Monthly Membership Meeting On Octember 18th, 2013, the Palmer Historical Society’s guest speakers are

RECURRING Palmer Public Library’s Calendar of Events for November/December Every Tuesday at 10am: Baby Lap Sit Every Tuesday at 11am: 2 year old Story Time Every Thursday at 11am: 3-5 year old story time Mat-Su Youth Orchestra Rehearsals Every Thursday 6pm-7pm Shaw Elementary School 3750 E. Paradise Lane Wasilla, AK $25 to register Open to intermediate level string players. Kai West 907-373-3422 Mat-Su Toastmasters 889 N. Elkhorn Drive Wasilla, AK 99654 Located upstairs in the Pub Every Tuesday from 7:30am to 8:30am Mat-Su Toastmasters 907.841.9818 or 907.355.3039 Free Community Concerts Palmer Salvation Army Every Sat Night, 8:30 pm $5 suggested donation StrongWomen - Palmer Mon - Wed - Fri, 11am - 12 pm Mat-Su Cooperative Extension Service 809 S Chugach St.., Ste #2, Palmer, $5 for a two month session Julie Cascio 907-745-3360 http://www.uaf.edu/ces/districts/matsu/ hhfd/strongwomen/ Palmer Public Library’s Events Every Tues at 10am: Baby Lap Sit Every Tues at 11am: 2 year old Story Time Every Wed at 2pm: Open Room for Preschoolers Every Thurs at 10:30am: 3-5 year old Story Time Fri, February 8th: 7pm. Foreign Film, Hospitalite (see library website www. cityofpalmer/library for synopsis) Mon, February 18th: 7-8pm. Friends of the Palmer Library Meeting Sewing Circle Meets the first and third Wed of the month 1-3pm, Free Mat-Su Senior Services 1132 S. Chugach St. Palmer 745-5454 mat-suseniorservices.com Caregivers Connection Last Mon of each month 1-3pm Free Mat-Su Senior Services 1132 S. Chugach St. Palmer, AK 99645 745-5454 mat-suseniorservices.com sueann.smithatmat-suseniorservices. com NuKreationZ Art & Creativity Center Tues-Sat Noon-6pm Art gallery, classes and workshops Make your own pottery Palmer Museum New Hours Wed-Fri 10am-5pm Sat, 10-2pm Free Admission Art Exhibits & More

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

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

Women, Wine & Wed Third Wed every month Presented by Lakeshore Studio East Lake Mall, Big Lake 6:30pm $25 RSVP 230-0935 Free Hearing Screening provided by MatSu Sertoma Club First Sat Every Month 10am-1pm Wasilla Physical Therapy Deana Moore 761-5229 Whatever! Teen Lounge Featuring Wii gaming at Palmer Library T-Th, 2-4pm 746-4700 Alaska Celtic Pipes and Drums Free piping and drumming Instruction Every Fri Evening, 5-5:45 pm Eagle River Presbyterian Church 12836 Old Glen Hwy, Eagle River Wasilla Meta-Rose Library: Toddler Storytime Wed at 10:30am and 1:30pm Preschool Storytime Thurs at 10:30am and 1:30pm Baby Lapsit Storytime Fri at 10:30am Discussion Junction Family Book Club First Tues of each month Wasilla Meta-Rose Library Reading Rendezvous Last 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 Wasilla Shotokan Karate Club Tuesday and Thursday 6:30 to 8:00 pm Wasilla Alaska Club Instructor Dr. Jeffrey L. Sponsler Age 7 and up.

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

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

See our Colony Christmas Calendar on page 21

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Nov. 2013

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

Surprised

By Jesse Lederman

By Elizabeth Thompson

d golden splendor Leaves of red an e high and low; Dot the landscap w intr y breath Tumble w ith each . e no longer mow And our law ns w , summer’s herald With this end of ence to hound Mat Winds comm tes, ashing teeth it bi With maw and gn d. inter’s roun We prepare for W

Poetry

Dark blue and small

fingers

all those tiny universa l dots of fish we never caught them and the search felt so infinite You will lay in bed ton ight thinking again of the tiny silver lights shattering into dark er, deeper places being the images of life that will escape yo u A calm death is in us Yours has begun to sp eak a whisper I’ve heard this noise before, lay ing on the dock when the waves shud dered against us black trees lent for wa rd and you watched me drink the water before I cried for les s You’re scared now as I was then Dark blue and small

fingers

I learned to stop reac hing for minnows You peeled the leech es off of me we saw the moon as we still see it now between us

Poetry

Calmly, as light div ide s you have cancer Dark blue but in your hand, is mine small fingers.

Nov. 2013

Stand in peace, And seduce no excuse– Now is the time For prayer parties And victories.

ivated High peaks are tit rime.

With a finer y of w ith tourists, Wild birds depart , “It’s time.”

They are telling us

An ache tears into th e memory of your child hand re aching for minnows

Stand in peace, And woo no haste– Now is not the time For graveyard potions Or negative notions!

w its gone, Now you see it, no gged crow n.

White dust on ru t yet There it is. No, no ctic gow n.

Snow forms an ar

By Shaina Melin

Stand in Peace

By Nan Potts

Minnows

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

You said you were surprised you had a scent, and hey what was it like, and I said there weren’t words (but that’s not true, that’s a lie, there are always words, though sometimes only in song, and I can’t carry a tune but God tells us no excuses just close your eyes and sing).

So, darling: You smell a little like the ocean, and star jasmine, and the Santa Ana winds, and chamomile tea.

Termination Dusting

39

Poetry

The Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paper

40

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Nov. 2013

Social Issues

The Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paper Reflections from November 22, 1963

By Vic Kohring

November 22nd marks the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy's assassination. I remember the day well as a five year old living in Chugiak with my family. It was seven months before I began school, so I was at home with my mother. We had no television and relied on a portable radio for news and contact with the outside world.

During the late morning hours of Friday the 22nd, an announcement suddenly crackled over the radio that the president had been shot while visiting Dallas, Texas. A follow-up report shortly afterward indicated he did not survive. I remember my mother crying. I started to cry too, not necessarily because of the president, but because of my mother. I had never seen her weep before, so it startled me. I was too young to fully grasp the significance of a presidential assassination, so it wasn't quite as emotional for me as it was for others.

Yet I still wailed for hours.

While listening to subsequent radio coverage, I remember hearing the name "Lee Harvey Oswald" as the alleged killer and feeling creeped out. To this day, the name causes my spine to shiver. I recall hearing about how JFK was traveling with his wife in a limousine when he was cut down by a sniper firing from a downtown building. And I remember listening to live coverage of the new president, Lyndon Johnson, arriving by helicopter at the White House. I misunderstood what I was hearing, convinced it was President Kennedy, alive and descending out of Heaven

and returning to earth--when instead it was Johnson landing in Marine One. A lot has changed politically in the last 50 years. By today's standards, JFK would be considered a fiscal conservative. He believed in supply side economics, much like Ronald Reagan.

Unlike today's liberals who hide behind the "Progressive" skirt and are convinced that Obama's lame mantra of "Let's tax the rich" by penalizing producers and spending money on welfare programs will somehow create prosperity (as proclaimed by Joe Biden), Kennedy understood that true economic growth is achieved only when government controls are limited and the tax burden is low so people can keep their hard earned money and freely spend it as they see fit, without the government forcibly seizing it through taxation and then blowing it on wasteful spending through wealth redistribution. Classic socialism.

Major tax cuts proposed by JFK and enacted in 1962 unleashed a vigorous economic expansion throughout the 1960's. This model was repeated under Reagan in the 1980's. You would think Congress and Obama would learn from history. But no. Contrast these boom times with today's economy which continues to sputter while on the verge of recession after five years of Obama's failed leftist policies. Not to mention a gargantuan debt hanging on our necks like a millstone. You can see why today's leaders command little respect compared with those of yesteryear.

Our country has gradually drifted to the left over the past half century, while accelerating under Obama's presidency. The solution is not necessarily electing Republicans, as many self proclaimed "conservatives" in office today resemble Democrats of a

generation ago. I personally witnessed this evolution for a dozen years as a seven term legislator. Republican spending habits in Juneau have made the most ardent Democrats dance a happy jig. Even Karl Marx would be pleased, whose Manifesto resembles much of the thinking in our capital city. A colleague of mine, former Rep. Al Vezey of North Pole, once told me that "Republicans in Juneau resemble socialists, while Democrats, communists," based on their voting record and love of big government.

I laughed, but now realize how right he was. The only thing the Republicans accomplished with the budget during my tenure (the party in control of the House and Senate mind you) was to slow the rate of spending, which more than doubled. And we were supposed to be the party of limited government!

As I reflect back after all these years, I've learned to appreciate President Kennedy. As imperfect as he was, he had the country's best interest at heart unlike many of today's populist, egotistical pols who lead our country and those who aspire to lead (both Republican and Democrat), most of whom are in love with the sound of their voices and seem more interested in publicity, notoriety and furthering political careers, rather than solving our country's problems.

They would do well to read JFK's book, Profiles in Courage, where Kennedy documents brave politicians who cast aside personal ambitions by making difficult, unpopular, but correct decisions and consequently paid a heavy price for their courage. A real life's lesson can be learned from the Pulitzer Prize winning book.

Vic Kohring is a resident of Wasilla

Politics

The Difference Between Misstatement, Deceit and Outright Lies

By Raymond E. Lyons Jr. Over forty times during the effort to pass and implement the affordable care act, President Obama has told the American People that if they liked their insurance they could keep their insurance and if they liked their doctor, they could keep their doctor, PERIOD. In reality, this has proven to be a patent falsehood. Estimates now are that perhaps nearly 30 million people will loose their coverage and be forced into more expensive (and in many instances, ridiculously unnecessary) plans under Obama Care.

Indeed, I fail to see why a healthy male needs maternity coverage and provisions for birth control pills; nor can I understand, no matter how objectively I view the matter, why 50 plus year old postmenopausal women urgently need them. But, of course, I never went to Harvard, so perhaps (as the administration clearly believes) I am just too ignorant to appreciate the magnificence of the President’s intellect and just unable to appreciate how he and his administration know so much better what is right for me and my family than I possibly could.

Still, with my plebeian, non ivy league post graduate degree, I am facile enough in the use of the English language to understand the nuanced differences between being told something and observing empiric evidence that it is not true. Granted, there is the argument that the language is changing: evolving if one is a liberal politician or propagandist;

degenerating if one is a conservative citizen. However, I (as opposed to the administration) do not believe it has evolved so far that, as Orwell related in 1984, War is Peace, Slavery is Freedom and 2+2 equals anything the Party wants it to equal. As far into my education as my senior year of high school, deceit was deceit, not “credibility gaps” and outright lies were lies, not episodes of “misspeaking”.

Now, however, nearly everyday I am forced to ponder what happened to the English language in the decades since, in cap and gown, I received my highschool diploma.

It is true, President Johnson (a Democrat) was the first President I recall having a “credibility gap”.

Then President Nixon (a Republican) followed with another credibility gap. President Clinton also had a credibility gap, as did President Bush.

So credibility gaps involving the office of the Presidency are not particularly rare phenomena. It seems, however, that in the past five years, their rate of appearance and popularity has markedly increased.

When the environmental lobby opposed the Keystone Pipeline Project, the current administration halted construction based upon worries about environmental impact despite the fact that a multi-year study cleared it environmentally. But of courser, it was for the good of humanity to prevent the use of nasty Canadian petroleum for the glorious goal of reducing greenhouse emissions into the planet’s atmosphere. So while the administration’s left hand distracted the American public with repeated proclamations of the mantra, few if any noted that the Canadian oil was going to go to China where it would be utilized, sending the same greenhouse emissions into the atmosphere: and even fewer realized that as a direct result of that policy, the only things

The People’s Paper

being reduced in America were jobs and economic activity. That would be a harvest China would reap.

Then there were the episodes of the EPA, halting construction of private homes on private property in the interest of protection of wetlands, despite the fact many of the home sites were dry. But of course, as Comrade Lenin said, repeat a lie often enough, it eventually becomes the truth.

I seem to recall several incidents when questions arose regarding the executive branch’s use of its authority to benefit unions as payback for union support of the Democratic Party in the elections process. This of course was vigorously denied. Yet I also recall the National Labor Relations Board blocking the Boeing Aircraft Company from moving a manufacturing site from Washington State to South Carolina (a right to work state) for reasons, which were vague at best. Oh, and I recall also that when GM and Chrysler went bankrupt, the Unions were, by executive fiat, moved up to first place to receive the remaining assets, despite contracts and laws which made this at best a questionable practice. But of course, only nasty, racist, tea bagging, neocon fascists could possibly draw negative inferences from this activity.

All good Democrats knew for a certainty this was merely a case of the administration “doing the right thing for the middle class”.

Then along came Soylendra and a bankruptcy that cost tax-payers millions. But of course it was all above board, despite the fact a major bundler for President Obama’s political campaigns was a stockholder in Soylendra and made a fortune out of this. It was all merely coincidence, obviously, not a political con perpetrated upon the American People in the name of protecting one’s political cronies.

With the advent of Fast and Furious, despite the fact assault weapons were allowed to walk by the federal judicial system in Arizona, and despite their being found where a Boarder Patrol Agent was killed, the mainstream press and large segments of the American citizenry found nothing untoward about the incident. Nor did they find it newsworthy when Fast and Furious weapons began turning up at homicide sites in Mexico. Those directly involved in the flawed decision-making process were never sanctioned, and God forbid anyone question the judgment of the administration, which involved itself in such policy. It was merely a nonevent (except of course to the people being killed with the weapons).

Then, in the fullness of time, the Arab Spring arrived. Gaddafi was toppled in Libya (with US military assistance) and it was going to be a new era of peace and brotherhood across the Arab world. When, however, Al Qaeda sects metastasized into these regions, of course it wasn’t a failure of Administration Foreign Policy. The President was facing a re-election campaign. The policy was good; it was all just a regrettable outcome became the Administration’s mantra, chanted endlessly by the mainstream media. However, when Egypt erupted, it was considered a terrible thing to contemplate US intervention in the affairs of the Muslim Brotherhood led regime and of course, no one in the mainstream media questioned the logic of how it was acceptable for America to participate in toppling Gaddafi in Libya but unacceptable to interfere with Morisi in Egypt (or for that matter, Assad in Syria after he crossed a red line in the use of chemical weapons which turned out to be a pink ribbon). In the view of the administration and the press, it was not

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Nov. 2013

Social Issues TLC Corner Chat:

Contributors vs Consumers

By Tiffany Moffitt Rye

My hope is that this article, before the holidays finds all of its readers in good health, joy and peace abounding throughout and that the words I share make a small CONTRIBUTION to your lives and loved ones around you.

I pray that as you read the words I have had impressed upon me to share that your eyes will be opened to see the beauty and majesty we live in and your ears will hear only good things pouring out as a flood water into the well of this Valley we call home!

Some of you may not know who I am in this community or why I have a heart to even CONTRIBUTE through this page but one thing for sure is that I prefer to be a CONTRIBUTOR of good things to this community rather than just a CONSUMER of them.

My hope in this message this month is to bring awareness to not only being a CONTRIBUTOR but setting your eyes

The People’s Paper upon a non-profit organization we are now becoming more aware of in our community called, MY HOUSE.

and CONTRIBUTE a portion of our storage room in our store into a "MY HOUSE TLC CLOSET".

I became the Owner of Side Kicks Gifts in the Koslosky Center last July 2012. It was only through a miracle from God that this alone took place, and in that I believe that this little "gift" shop is our ministry and it has been confirmed numerous times by our CONSUMERS. I want you to know that my heart is not in "things or gifts" my heart is in The Lord. I simply love CONTRIBUTING gifts myself and so it seems befitting that God would bless us with this place so that others can find that unique item that befits their loved one to pass on as a gift as well from His store!

TLC stands for The Love of Christ and the closet stores snack packs and simple meals, hygiene products, gloves and hand warmers as well as a refrigerator for cold drinks, cold snacks and fresh items if we have a specific need.

As well as, "Owning yet just really managing His gifts," I came to a place late last fall of realizing how many young people there were scurrying about after dark in this small town while I was working late into the night.

My heart started to break for them. I grew up with and have experienced firsthand homelessness around me on so many levels throughout my 43 years living in this community.

As a single person and even a single mother for a few years...I allowed up to at least 30 people to crash on my couch at different times just because they had no place to go.

I remember my heart breaking for these people as I slept in my bed or even had my children sleep with me so they could sleep on a bed, and I cried out to The Lord pleading with Him to just give them a home, open a door, show me how to love on them like He loves on us. And He would provide EVERY time! Through a heart for the homeless, The Lord impressed upon me to join forces earlier this year

The TLC Closet is also a DROP OFF location for sleeping bags, clothing and coat items, and other needs of My House in Wasilla. I personally will drop off these items once a week on Thursdays at their location if you cannot travel to Wasilla. ALL CONTRIBUTIONS to the TLC Closet are from caring and concerned CONTRIBUTORS in the community like you. Please SHARE this resource with anyone ages 14-24 who is in need.

House Directors and board members as well as local agencies attend at the Gathering Place/Gathering Grounds at 300 N Willow St. or call 373-4357 and ask for details. They are also on Facebook at My House, just look for the local logo.

If you are interested in volunteering, you will need to go to the Alaska State Troopers and pay $20 and request an Interested Persons Report and submit it along with your application for review and approval by the board to volunteer in any capacity for My House. Applications can be picked up at My House or our store in downtown Palmer at Side Kicks Gifts in the Koslosky Center during open hours.

Question for the month: Am I willing to step outside of myself and be a CONTRIBUTOR to the needs around me and not just a CONSUMER of my own needs?

MY HOUSE Mat-Su information can be found at www.myhousematsu.org online. You will find up-to-date info about who they are, why they exist, what they are doing in our community, and anything you need to know about why and how to CONTRIBUTE?

Contemplation (prayer or meditation) for the month: Please take some time this month and contemplate about and then act upon as you are led to CONTRIBUTE in even one small way to the local needs of our youth.

*From webpage: The mission of MY House is serving the needs of the Homeless & Runaway Teens throughout the Mat-Su Valley. MY House is a non-profit organization that makes available the basic needs of safety, shelter, warmth and nourishment for teens in the valley that need our support. MY House provides services to youth ages 14-24.

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

I encourage anyone who has a heart for our youth to attend the month meeting each month on the 1st Thursday at 4pm, it is open to anyone and My

Read something you don’t like?

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

And then send it to us at Make A Scene!

> Misstatement, Deceit and Outright Lies CONT. fitting for American Citizens to use their intellect to ponder why it made sense to depose an ally (Gaddafi) but it was taboo to interfere with inimical leaders like Morsi or Assad. Obviously it was once more a case of the citizenry being unable to appreciate the brilliant intellectual achievements of the Obama Administration, which would bear fruit as time went on. And it did on September 11, 2012 at the US Consulate in Benghazi, Libya.

Later, as this was proven untrue, when documents emerged showing the decisions were referred to White House political appointees in Washington, the administration, with vigorous assistance of the mainstream media, whitewashed it. It once more an episode of deceit became a non-event.

This too, proved to be a blatant falsehood, for on the 25th of February, 2010, at a Congressional health care summit attended by the President, Congressman Eric Cantor told the President that studies indicated nearly 8 million policies would be

It is not the language that has changed. It is the people. On the whole, we no longer demand integrity from our government officials so long as we are being given some form of gratification. In exchange for some special interest, we are content for 2+2 to equal anything the government wants it to equal. And our government officials know this.

We are living in a world in which American Idol and Dancing With the Stars have greater impact on a large segment of the citizenry than who is dying in Afghanistan and what are the consequences of Government mismanagement. In truth, we have allowed politicians and pundits to turn television and radio into the new Circus Maximus, keeping the proles contented with gladiatorial games and government bread as the barbarians approach the gates.

Last November, despite five years of empiric evidence of deceit, incompetence and pandering to special interest groups, America made her choice. Now I fear, the time is at hand when she must take her punishment.

Nov. 2013

And yet again, the mainstream mediaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fife and drum corps went to work to minimize and muddle the situation to preserve the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s image of integrity. The President had only to say he did not know and everyone was expected to buy into that rationale and pay no heed to

So, to return to the question posed in the title of this essay, I posit there is no intrinsic difference in the definition of misstatements, deceit and outright lies. The only differences are artificial nuances perpetrated by duplicitous, agenda driven pundits and apologists and the uninformed citizenry in modern America.

When the NSA scandal broke, the first reaction of the administration was to deceive the citizenry on the scope of the surveillance and minimize the amount of data being collected upon American Citizens in the United States.

When the public declined to swallow that, the mantra shifted seamlessly into the falsehoods were excusable because the folks were going to get a better deal under his insurance exchanges and because, of course, he had no idea this might happen.... it was, unfortunately, an unforeseen consequence of the righteous effort to bring healthcare to all Americans.

From nearly all of his champions in the administration and among the mainstream press, legions of talking heads on television and radio spouted this maxim over and over and over again. He had no idea this might happen. It was merely an unforeseen consequence of his health care bill.

terminated because of the way the law was written . . . more than two years before it was to be implemented. Of course, that is a fact that has little chance of being revealed by the broadcast media and even less chance of being noted by a large segment of the American populace.

To question him about the deception was a grave social faux pas that only an uncouth, fascist Tea Partier would commit in polite society. In testimony before the Congress of the United States, when the stench of dishonesty and deception began to approach Secretary Clinton, rather than answer the questions asked her, she created a scene demanding to know what difference it made if the debacle was the result of a video or just a bunch of people who suddenly decided one night to go kill some Americans (at the United States Embassy in a coordinated, planned attack). And of course, it deflected the questions from her. Indeed, when it was later shown that the Administration knew Al Qaeda was involved in coordinating

When the IRS was caught red-handed targeting organizations based upon their political leanings; we were solemnly told the deliberate delay and manipulation of applications regarding tax-exempt status of conservative political groups was just the rogue activities of two IRS officials in Cincinnati Ohio -- perpetrated without the knowledge of anyone in the White House.

empiric evidence and common sense. And now we have the misstatements regarding the Affordable Care Act: If you like your insurance -- if you like your doctor; you can keep your insurance and you can keep your doctor, period. This statement is being exposed as a falsehood day by day, despite claims to the contrary by the Presidents apologists in the fife and drum corps of the mainstream media. First he claimed Americans loosing their insurance was the fault of the insurance companies. Then, when this was demonstrated to be a misstatement, he claimed he told the American People they could keep their insurance only if the insurance companies did not change the individual policies (also a deceit, because he most assuredly did not say this and because he knew the policies had to change because the law mandated them to change).

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At Benghazi, a US Ambassador and three other Americans were killed and the President and UN Ambassador energetically assured the American People it was merely the unrestrained actions of protesters engendered by an anti-Islamic video. And Secretary of State Clinton stood at the foot of those flag draped caskets of four dead American Government Officials and loudly proclaimed to all of us it was all the fault of that video. When, as always happens over time, the deception was demonstrated; then it became offensive to call the president out on it.

the attack, most of the citizenry were convinced that it was purely coincidence the deceptions shielded the President from the results of his foreign policy failures and assisted him in getting re-elected. Not to mention minimizing the poor policy decisions on the part of the State Department -- of which MS Clinton just coincidentally was in charge of at the time).

The Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paper

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Politics

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Nov. 2013

Community > DETERMINATION CONTINUED an unprecedented turn around, he defied the doctors and was back riding his sled just two months later.

“That was the absolute high point for me in my riding career,” he says with a lazy grin. “The day I got back on that sled and found out I could still ride like I always had just fueled my determination to keep going; push even harder.

“My goal is to show others that you can do whatever you want as long as you don’t give up. I want to inspire kids and adults through my story while achieving my own goals.”

His journey has not been easy.

“All of a sudden, a task that would take a normal person a minute to do was impossible for me.”

Months of therapy, endless hours of hard, painful work and specially fitted leg braces have made the possibility of his dreams a reality once more.

“Today I walk using KFO leg braces, and 4-arm crutches. I think I’m one of the only people in the world using them full time.”

Johnson is unwavering in his drive to show the world what is possible.

He says that while life has changed dramatically for him, giving up has never been an option. “You just have to try harder,” he says with grit and resolve in his voice. “I ride every day. I’m having fun.

And I’m still smiling. So life is good.”

When asked what advice he would give to anyone playing in Hatcher Pass today, he says, “Calm down a little. Be patient and take the time to really check out what you’re getting into before you commit and go for it. I was just in too much of a hurry.”

There are some steps you take in life that cannot be undone. And while Hatcher Pass is a wonderful paradise playground, dangers lurk. Why not take the time to educate yourself and learn what to look out for so that you can ‘live to ride another day.’

To learn more about Johnson you can check out his video at http://youtu.be/ mlkxg5AQhg. To learn skills for recreating and playing safely in Hatcher Pass, check out the North America Outdoor Institute at BeSnowSmart. org or call them at 907-376-2898.

> Brad Johnson stands on his leg braces before heading out in Hatcher Pass to ride.

Community

> PALMER MUSEUM CONTINUED

We invite members of the community to stop by to see our 2013 Art Acquisition, view our Living the Life exhibit and see the entries and winners of our Christmas Remembered photo contest.

We will also be hosting the mushing dogs from Northern Lights Adventures who will be at the museum from 11:00AM to 4:00PM offering visitors many photo opportunities with the dogs and a chance to learn more about the sport of mushing.

It may be the end of the year, but be sure to stop by the Palmer Museum and help us celebrate the holidays!

On Saturday, December 14 , the museum will be open from 10:00 AM to 5:00PM and will be serving free cider and cookies while playing Christmas cartoons and movies throughout the day.

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.

The

will include a FREE wine tasting hosted by Bear Creek Winery, food catered by Turkey Red and live music.

th

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

> The museum also

operates during the winter months from October 1st through April 30th, Wednesday through Friday, 10:00AM to 5:00PM and Saturdays, 10:00AM to 2:00PM.

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Nov. 2013

Literature Alaskan Author Begins Gold Rush Series

Lynn Lovegreen, Anchorage

Alaska's Gold Rush is no place for a lady, but that doesn't scare Ellie Webster. Ellie travels with her younger brother to the wilds of the Klondike Gold Rush to save the family farm. She's prepared for hardship on the trail, but not for the sparkling blue eyes of Duke Masterson, a charming saloonkeeper. And Duke is surprised to find that Ellie and her apple pies are more valuable to him than all the gold nuggets in Skagway, Alaska.

Now if he could only overcome Ellie’s fear of losing her newlyfound independence and win her heart. Together they must defeat the conman corrupting the town and make their fortunes before the last steamship of the season heads South.

Lynn Lovegreen of Anchorage, Alaska, announces the release of her first young adult historical romance, Fools Gold, December 4, 2013, by Prism Book Group, Pennsylvania.

This is the first of a series; Worth Her Weight in Gold will be released in spring, 2014.

Lynn Lovegreen was lucky enough to grow up in Alaska. Her family was stationed at Fort Richardson (now JBER) when she was six, and they fell in love with the place. Alaska’s been home ever since.

She’s always felt the power of words; she taught English for 20 years before retiring to make more time for writing. When not writing, she loves to spend time with family and friends, read, travel, and shoot at

targets with her cowboy action shooting club, the Alaska 49ers. She is an active member of local history and writing groups, and is currently the coordinator for 49 Alaska Writing Center’s project Anchorage Remembers, which celebrates Anchorage’s upcoming centennial.

Lovegreen’s young adult historical romances are set in the Alaska Gold Rush, a great time for drama, romance, and independent characters who made their own way in the world.

> See her website at

www.lynnlovegreen. com. You can also find her on Facebook and Pinterest.

Fools Gold, ISBN 978-1-94009926-2, will be available December 4, 2013 as an ebook and print-on-demand, locally at UAA Bookstore and at www. prismbookgroup.com/foolsgold. html and major online booksellers.

Lynn Lovegreen of Anchorage, Alaska, announces the release of her first young adult historical romance, Fools Gold

Nov 29

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Meet Artist

29TH ANNIVERSARY BARBARA LAVALLEE

OPEN HOUSE

New Prints 2014 Calendars Childrens Books Framed Art Specials

2 for $29 Special

29% OFF Select Items Prizes

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DON’T MISS HER LAST SHOW BEFORE CHRISTMAS!

Literature

Family Stress and the Holidays If you are embroiled in some form of family dysfunction, what could be more fun than the holiday season?

Iditarod Poster Alaska Poster Childrens Books

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Prayers of thanks work well, too.

We can always find something to be thankful for, and that can be very uplifting. I’ve heard the expression, “an attitude of gratitude” can work wonders for you. However, always be aware of your evil inclination. Come on now, we all have it. So prayers of revenge are not recommended:

people pray with you or for you.

If the holiday season makes you a bit nervous, or if you need other stress management with humor tips, check out “Laughing Your Way through Hell-Tips for Self-Care While Going through Adversity”. Perhaps some stress busters will gobble your anxiety away!

“Thank you Lord, that Schmuck just developed some heinous disease,” or “I am grateful that I don’t have to share my life with Vicious anymore,” is probably not going to benefit you or the object of your disaffection.

> www.laughter-is.com > www.hillarysaffran.com

Prayer can happen anywhere.

There’s phone prayer, car prayer, cubicle prayer, meal prayer, even fishing prayer. I’m sure I’ve even seen email power point with music prayer. Whatever works for you, and remember, it’s free. You can have

Nov. 2013

Prayer actually can be healing and to the point. Some of my most intense prayers are one word such as “Help!”

This can certainly be embellished to “Please Help!”

Premiering His New:

The last thing you want to do is to choke down another piece of dry turkey in this atmosphere. (You suspect that your piece is poisoned anyway, and it just might BE the last thing that you do).

Now, I don’t mean prayer acting on negative emotions such as, “Please Lord, smote these people NOW!” or “I pray they will be tortured in the zombie apocalypse”, or “Can they at least fall into a big hole in the living room floor that goes straight to hell then can You make the hole disappear, like something in the Twilight Zone movie?”

JO N VA N ZY LE

Here you are, at the big holiday table, trying to make pleasant conversation with people that can’t stand you.

You are so uncomfortable (and so obviously unskilled in covering up this discomfort) that even a root canal without anesthesia sounds more appealing.

What a perfect time for a....

Self-Care Tip For Family Stress: Say a prayer – it’s one of the most potent antidotes to stress.

Connecting with a higher power helps you gain strength and clear your mind.

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Carrs Mall, Wasilla | 376.0123

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