Music University Singers & University Sinfonia Saturday, December 5 @ 7:30pm UAA Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building, 3640 Alumni Drive, Anchorage $20 General Admission, $15 Seniors/Military $5 UAA Students Available at UAAtix.com, 907 786-4TIX (4849), or Centertix.net For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact Dr. Lee Wilkins at lmwilkins@uaa.alaska.edu or 907602-9647 University Sinfonia, conducted by Dr. Lee Wilkins and University Singers, conducted by Dr. Grant Cochran, will be presenting their joint annual Winter Concert on December 5, 2015 in the UAA ARTS Recital Hall. The University Singers are doing a collection of sacred and secular pieces, including a number of different settings of the “Ave Maria” text. “Ellens dritter Gesang” (“Ellen’s Third Song”), was composed by Franz Schubert in 1825 as part of his Opus 52, a setting of seven songs from Walter Scott’s popular epic poem “The Lady of the Lake”, loosely translated into German. It has become one of Schubert’s most popular works, recorded by a wide variety and large number of singers, under the title of “Ave Maria”, in arrangements with various lyrics which commonly differ from the original context of the poem.
The University Sinfonia will be presenting Antonio Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” with narration. The Violin soloists are Marie Neilson - “Spring”, Harrison Jennings “Summer”, Tremaine Chisholm - “Autumn”, and Katie Wasko “Winter”. The Four Seasons (Italian: Le quattro stagioni) is a set of four violin concertos by Antonio Vivaldi. Composed in 1723, The Four Seasons is Vivaldi’s best-known work, and is among the most popular pieces of baroque music. The texture of each concerto is varied, each resembling its respective season. The UAA Sinfonia, directed by Dr. Lee Wilkins is the main string performing ensemble, in which students rehearse and perform alongside faculty members and the directors.
1. Dog Man: Chronicles of an Iditarod Champion Martin Buser Iditarod legend Martin Buser tells his story 2. Sword of Summer Rick Riordan Magnus Chase has always been a troubled kid. Since his mother’’s mysterious death, he’s lived alone on the streets of Boston, surviving by his wits, keeping one step ahead of the police and the truant officers. 3. Enchanted Forest: An Inky Quest & Coloring Book Johana Basford Adult Coloring Book 4. Mindfulness - Coloring Book Emma Farrarons Adult Coloring Book 5. Lost Ocean: An Underwater Adventure & Coloring Book Johana Basford Adult Coloring Book 6. Trim Healthy Mama Cookbook Pearl Barrett With more than 250 recipes to help readers successfully reach their goals, this companion cookbook to the bestselling Trim Healthy Mama and Trim Healthy Mama Plan is just what readers have been waiting for.
The Sinfonia’s primary function is to provide a performing ensemble for the department of music’s majors and minors; membership is however drawn from all academic areas of the University as well as from the community.
7. Colony Kids Heather Lehe Will Paul have to leave his friends, family, and beloved dog, Rascal?
University Singers is under the direction of Dr. Grant Cochran who also conducts the Anchorage Concert Chorus.
9. Life and Times of Matanuska Valley Pioneers Various Authors Interviews of 55 Valley Pioneers with new and vintage photos, recipes and a few jokes.
This talented ensemble performs a blend of classical and modern choral pieces as well as pop arrangements. Tickets can be purchased at UAAtix.com and Centertix.net, or by calling 786-4849
8. Swallowed by the Great Land: And Other Dispatches Seth Kantner Compelling Alaska stories from Seth Kantner, bestselling author of Ordinary Wolves.
10. Find the Good Heather Lende As the obituary writer in a spectacularly beautiful but often dangerous spit of land in Alaska, Heather Lende knows something about last words and lives well lived.
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Literature
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lonely northern trails.” ~William E. Gordon, in Icy Hell (Wm. Brendan & Son, 1937) At the turn of the century, the network of roadhouses along Alaska’s far-flung trails was an interconnected lifeline which made travel possible, and the role these often crude business establishments played in the history of the north cannot be overestimated.
The Alaskan roadhouse is a trail or roadside hotel. It deserves and has earned the high regard that all Alaskan and northern travelers have for the roadhouse. Many tales of heroism and bravery could be told of the daring rescue and relief parties that have been headed by the intrepid roadhouse keepers.
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Story has it that no stranded man or dog has ever been denied food or shelter by these landlords of the
The roadhouses were a creation of the times in which they flourished, a time when men and women traveled slowly and laboriously over thin trails through an almost unimaginable wilderness, coping day after day with hostile weather, treacherous river crossings, and mountains which loomed and only grudgingly presented high passes through which to cross. ‘Alaskan Roadhouses: Shelter, Food and Lodging Along Alaska’s Roads and Trails,’ by Helen Hegener, is the newest book from Northern Light Media, publisher of acclaimed
Alaskan history books, including ‘The 1935 Matanuska Colony Project,’ ‘The First Iditarod,’ and ‘Along Alaskan Trails.’ This long-anticipated 284-page book recounts the detailed histories of twenty-four roadhouses, and presents historic photos of two dozen more. Along with the colorful histories are first-hand accounts of those who stayed at the roadhouses while traveling the early trails and roads of Alaska, including the Reverend Samuel Hall Young, Frank G. Carpenter, Judge James Wickersham, Leonhard Seppala, Col. Walter L. Goodwin, and Matilda Clark Buller, who opened a roadhouse near Nome in 1901, at the height of the Nome Gold Rush.
The roadhouses of Alaska were a creation of the times in which they flourished, a time when men and women traveled slowly and laboriously over thin trails through an almost unimaginable wilderness, coping day after day
with hostile weather, treacherous river crossings, and mountains which loomed and only grudgingly presented high passes through which to cross. At the end of a long day’s journey the lights of a roadhouse in the distance could only be a welcome sight. No matter how rough the accommodations, the roadhouse signaled warmth and food and a place to rest for a few hours. The brave and hardy individuals who chose to build and operate the early roadhouses in territorial Alaska were pioneers of the highest caliber, vital links in the chain of the Great Land’s history. “Alaskan Roadhouses, Shelter, Food, and Lodging along Alaska’s Roads and Trails,” by Helen Hegener, published by Northern Light Media PO Box 298023, Wasilla, AK $24.95 plus $5.00 shipping and handling. www.northernlightmedia.com
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Music
Voice of the Valley
Open Mic Jams! Contributed by Dave Ion Sterling Silver Band
Wednesdays: Schwabenhof Bar, 7-11pm. Carley & Gabe, "Earth to Travolta"
A warm and friendly Bavarian Style Pub featuring selected European and Alaskan Brewed Beers. Or order from the well stocked top shelf of name brand wines and spirits.
Thursdays: Fishhook Bar, 7-11pm. Andy Mullen & "Friends", Mixed Venue
ANNE OF AVONLEA AUDITIONS: VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS page 14
Many players both professional and amature attend these Open Mic / Jam Sessions creating an ever evolving atmosphere. Even though the same tunes are sometimes repeated, different musicians give each performance a fresh new flavor. This mixture creates a new experience for the listener every week. You are likely to hear songs that are brand new due to many songwriters often showing up at these events. All that said there is a "Voice in the Valley" consisting of Songwriters, Poets and Musicians getting together three times every week. Always good to see new faces on the stage and in the audience.
On Sundays at 7pm Jeremy Strunk (Lead Guitar & Vocals), Tim Strunk (Bass Guitar) and Pete Gates (Drums) strike up the band for one of the best Blues Venues in the State including the arrival of various professional players. By the same token, band members are capable of backing even guests original songs. Solo your act, join in with the band, or just enjoy the show, a good time is always had by all.
THE ALASKAN NUTCRACKER: THE GLENN MASSAY THEATER page 17
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Sundays: Schwabenhof Bar Blues Jam, 7-11pm. Jeremy & Tim Strunk, Pete Gates
To view more local acts please visit: stormythursdaywebcasttheater.com/
HIGH ALTITUDE HISTORY: GROVER NEELY page 21
NOV. 2015
This Months Feature: This month the Open Mic / Jam is held weekly on Sundays at the Schwabenhof Bar, and has been ongoing for 7 years now.
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Community Events Art Alaska Children’s Choir Concert November 12th, 2015 4:00pm St. John Lutheran 440 E Elmwood, Palmer $10.00 Kid’s Art & Craft Class November 19, 2015 4:00pm Every Thursday East Lake Mall in Big Lake $15 – Supplies and Snacks Included Alaska Weight Loss Seminars December 3, 10, 17 January 7, 14, 21, 28 7:00pm 6921 E Garth Circle, Palmer FREE ADELE MORGAN AT NAZARENE HOLIDAY BAZAAR Saturday, November 21st 11:00am @ Palmer Train Depot 610 S Valley Way, Palmer, AK FREE
NOV. 2015
BLACK THURSDAY STOREWIDE SALE AT THE GALLERY, PALMER November 26th 8pm - Midnite 35% Off Storewide The Gallery 1150 S Colony Way, Palmer 907-745-1420 FRUITCAKES Family Christmas Comedy at Valley Performing Arts November 27 - December 20 Friday and Saturdays @ 7:00pm Sundays @ 2:00pm
251 West Swanson, Wasilla $20 General Admission $18 Students/Seniors Meet Jon Van Zyle, IDITAROD ARTIST Saturday November 28th 1-4pm @ Town Square Art Gallery Wasilla Carrs Mall 906-376-0123
THE ALASKAN NUTCRACKER Friday, December 11th at 7pm Saturday, December 12 at 3pm & 7pm The Glenn Massay Theater Adult: $15 Student: $10 www.glennmassaytheater.com
ICE CASTLES ON THE GREEN Saturday, December 12th @ 2-4pm Behind the Palmer City Alehouse Auditions for Anne of Avonlea Valley Performing Arts December 5th @ December 6th Valley Performing Arts A PHOTOGRAPHIC ADVENTURE WITH 251 West Swanson, Wasilla ED AND GEORGIA BENNETT 907-373-0195 Saturday December 12 @ 1-4 Town Square Art Gallery SPACEFEST Wasilla Carrs Mall Saturday, December 5th 6:00pm 907-376-0123 Anchorage Community Works 349 E Ship Creek Ave, Anchorage MAT-SU COMMUNITY CHORUS Tickets are $5, or 2 for $8 CHRISTMAS TRADITION Sunday, December 13th 4pm 1st Annual Palmer Boys St John’s Lutheran Church Basketball Prime Rib Dinner Adults $5, Students and Auction Seniors Free December 5th, 2015 @ 5:00pm Palmer Moose Lodge Women’s Connection $20.00 Luncheon: A Christmas Gathering CHRISTMAS BAZAAR AND BAKE SALE December 14th, 2015 12:00pm Saturday, December 5th 10:00am Evangelos, 2530 E. Parks Hwy, Wasilla Trinity Lutheran Church $18 – Includes Childcare 10355 E Palmer-Wasilla Hwy, Palmer FREE Beer Meets Chocolate Tasting December 18, 2015 @ 6:00pm WAKA FLOCKA FLAME Arkose Brewery, 650 E. Steel Loop LIVE IN ALASKA $25.00 Friday, December 11th 8:00pm 420 W 3rd, Anchorage
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WASILLA AREA SENIORS, INC RECURRING EVENTS Thursdays 10/15/15 Better Breathers Club Meets at 10:30 – 11:30 am
10/22/15 Quilts of Valor Sewing Group Meets from 10:00am – 3:00pm
10/22/15 ADRC Medicare Part D Counseling by appointment only 10:00am – 2:00pm
Every Thursday 9:30 – 10:30am Tai Ji Quan Class, 10:00am – 11:00am Zumba Class, 1:00 – 2:00 pm Strong Seniors Class
AK HOME CONCERT SERIES NOVEMBER 20TH THE SHOOT DANGS
Fridays Every Friday Starting 10/16 – 11/13/15 Blood Pressure Check 10:00am – 11:30am Every Friday from 8:30 – 9:30am & 10:00 – 11:00am
Featuring Alaskan Bands for Alaskan Audiences, the aim of the series is to bring Alaska bands into our state of the art facility for our local audience to enjoy all the talent that Alaska has to offer! www.glennmassaytheater.com 8395 E College Dr, Palmer 907-746-9300
Strong Seniors Class
10/30/15 Halloween Pot Luck 5:30 – 8:00pm Saturdays Every Saturday, Weight Watchers 8:30 am – 10:00am Weight Watchers Meets 10/17/15 Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner
11/14/15 WASI Holiday Craft Fair 10:00am – 5:00pm Sundays Every Sunday 11:30am – 12:30pm NonDenominational Church Service 11/15/15 WASI Holiday Craft Fair 11:00am – 4:00pm Mondays
Whistling Swan Productions Chris Smither November 14 - Sydney Laurence Theatre November 15 - Massay Theatre - 4 pm Dan Bern Saturday November 21 - Taproot - 7:30 pm Sunday November 22 Vagabond Blues - 6 pm
10/19/15 WASI Closed for Alaska Day Every Monday from 1:00 – 3:00pm Crafters Club Meets Every Monday 8:30am – 11:00am Strong Senior Classes 11/2/15 ADRC Medicare Part D Counseling 10:00am – 2:00pm by appointment only (Derrick @ 373-3652) Tuesdays Every Tuesday Weight Watchers & Lions Club Meet from 6:30 – 8:00pm
Dom Flemons Fri December 4 - Sydney Laurence - 7:30 pm Sat December 5 – Vagabond Blues - 7:30 pm
Alaska Hearing @ 9:00am - 3:00pm
www.whistlingswan.net
Every Wednesday 10:00am – 11:00am Bible Study
www.glennmassaytheater.com 8395 E College Dr, Palmer 907-746-9300
10/27/15 & 11/10/15
Wednesdays Bingo Every Wednesday 1:00pm – 3:00pm 10/21/15, 11/4/15,11/11/15
Noon Rotary Club Luncheon
NOV. 2015
Tix: Centertix.net, 263-ARTS, and the Glenn Massay box office and website
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The Glenn Massay Theater is so excited to start the Alaska Home Concert Series.
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Music
The Mat-Su Community Chorus Presents a Christmas Tradition Contributed by Nan Potts
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> Sunday, December 13th 4pm St John’s Lutheran Church Adults $5, Students/Seniors Free What would Christmas be without Christmas Traditions? There would be no gaily-lit Christmas trees. No sparkling, exterior lights to brighten our long, dark Alaskan nights. Say goodbye to the family gathering for Christmas feasts. Gone, the colorful greeting cards wishing you and yours, “Merry Christmas”. No office Christmas parties. No gift giving, special church services or mouthwatering baked goods. No sticky candy canes. No bustling shoppers or holiday traffic, nor would there be caroling or Christmas music! Well, crowded shops and playing bumpercars on snow-packed streets probably wouldn’t be missed; shopping online can eliminate these nuisances. And, some folks might think not having their relatives over for the Holidays, a blessing. But what about the other items, food and parties with friends, charity and goodwill, the Christmas Story and music? If you said, “Bah! Humbug!” to any of these, then you don’t like Christmas.
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But, what about the music? I have seen it soothe the most surely of Scrooges. Even, Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer, has introduced cheer into many, grumpy Grinches’ hearts. For those of you familiar with the Grinch’s story know it was love and caring that made his shriveled heart grow ten-times that day, inspired by the Who’s singing.
Let us reconcile, music is one of man’s universal languages. You don’t have to understand the language its being sung in to feel its emotion, its passion or to be inspired by its melody. To me, it is the keystone for our Christmas spirit and in delivering the Season’s message; the angels sang, announcing the birth of the Christ child. But, no Christmas music or songs? That custom would be sorely missed. Fear not, Traditionalists, the Mat-Su Community Chorus will be presenting its annual Christmas Concert in true Christmas tradition, in conjunction with the city of Palmer’s, Colony Christmas. Conducted by Anna Crowther, the chorus will perform at 4:00pm, Sunday, December 13th, hosted by St. John’s Lutheran Church. Tickets will be sold at the doors: Adults $5.00, Students and seniors are free of charge. Doors open at 3:30pm.
Watch for chorus members, Saturday, December 12th, caroling through the streets of Palmer at Colony Christmas, as they help herald the Christmas Season. Did you know, many centuries ago a carol was merely a dance accompanied by a merry song? Over the years, it gradually changed to become a joyful tune for all to sing. The word “caroling” means “celebrating a song,” and many ancient carols were composed to retell the Christmas story, long before people had access to books or written music. You don’t need to read sheet music to raise your voice in song. The chorus invites you carol along with them. Soothe your minds, bodies and souls. Celebrate a Christmas tradition with the Mat-Su Community Chorus in a heartwarming rendition of traditional carols, spirituals and contemporary Christmas music, the entire family will enjoy. Help keep traditions alive.
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Art
Holiday Festivities
at Town Square Art Gallery Town Square Art Gallery will be celebrating the Holiday Season with two exciting art shows. Saturday, Nov. 28th from 1-4 > Iditarod Artist Jon Van Zyle will be premiering the 2016 Iditarod print and 2016 Iditarod poster.
Jon’s art career has spanned over thirty five years. As a prolific artist, he produces numerous paintings a year for one man exhibitions in the United States as well as Europe. Illustrating at least two children’s books a year since 1993 for prestigious publishers has earned him a reputation with a younger audience as well as many awards for his children’s art. Jon studied art in Colorado. Born in the Midwest, he lived in the East, the Northwest and Hawaii before making Alaska his home in 1971.
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ever hope to experience. He has twice completed the 1,094 miles of the Iditarod Trail in the yearly sled dog race between Anchorage
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Meet Alaskan Artist Jon Van Zyle Art is Jon Van Zyle’s life, and Alaska has been his inspiration. Jon has seen more of Alaska than most can
and Nome. He has created the yearly Iditarod poster series commemorating the race and his involvement. In 1979 he was made the official Iditarod Artist, a title he still holds today. In 2004 he was inducted into the Iditarod Hall of Fame.
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Arts
Ice Castles on the Green!
By Carmen Summerfield
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> Saturday, December 12 2-4pm Behind the Dahlia Street Market, Palmer Colony Christmas is an old fashioned three-day celebration of Christmas 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 12, 2015 the Valley Arts Alliance will be producing their 8th Annual Ice Castles on the Green! Ice Castles on the Green consists of 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. The Dahlia Street Market was built in the mid-1930’s as the colony’s Trading Post and Post Office.
NOV. 2015
Palmer’s Mayor DeLena Johnson and her husband Steve purchased the
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To form the required 48 triangular sheets of ice, we made wooden molds, 30 inches at the base and one and a half inches thick, coated with an epoxy resin for strength and waterproofing.
Colony Christmas is an old fashioned three-day celebration of Christmas past and present in Palmer that features horse-drawn sleigh rides, reindeer, gingerbread houses, and holiday carolers.
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Our centerpiece at Ice Castles on the Green will be an ice sculpture based on the glass pyramids at the Louvre in Paris. Unlike the 4-sided pyramid at the Louvre, we constructed a 3-sided pyramid. Each side is an equilateral triangle with a base of 10 feet and a supporting structure to hold 16 triangular sheets of ice.
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! For inspiration, please visit our website ValleyArtsAlliance.com/ Archives. Most of the ice sculpting will occur from 2 to 4pm, but visit us any time and watch the ice sculptures take shape! So join us (and join in) on December 12 as we create another wonderful Ice Castles on the Green!
NOV. 2015
As part of the celebration, on Saturday, December 12, 2015 the Valley Arts Alliance will be producing their 8th Annual Ice Castles on the Green!
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abandoned building a few years ago and restored it to glory. Now it hosts the Palmer City Alehouse (where everyone is invited in for a “warm up” on Saturday afternoon during the Ice Castles on the Green).
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Entertainment > Comedy-Drama Directed by Kai West The little girl of “Green Gables” has become a grown-up school teacher of seventeen and how she faces the first real problems of her life forms the basis of Ms. Carlisle’s faithful adaptation. Audition times are: Saturday, December 5th, from 1pm to 4pm and Sunday, December 6th, from 5pm to 7pm. Following Anne of Green Gables (1908) this play covers the second chapter in the life of Anne Shirley. The play follows Anne from the age of 16 to 18, during the two years that she teaches at Avonlea School. It includes many of the characters from Anne of Green Gables, as well as new ones like Mr. Harrison, Miss Lavendar Lewis, Paul Irving, and the twins Dora and Davy. We will be looking for 9-12 Men and 15-25 women, of various ages, ranging from 8 years to 60 years.
NOV. 2015
If you would like to read the play script, a copy will be at the VPA office for overnight checkout. Visit our website www.valleyperformingarts.org and click on the “Auditions” link for more information. Auditions will be held at Valley Performing Arts, 251 W. Swanson Avenue.
> Download the audition form: www.valleyperformingarts.org or contact VPA at 373-0195
The Palmer Museum Receives Grant from the Collections Management Fund of Museums Alaska download a few of them for noncommercial purposes only (the Museum retains full copyright of those images from its permanent collections). Also included in the photo bank will be albums from different collections throughout Palmer.
The grant will be used to purchase a high-end digital scanner, photography and slide archival supplies, and allow the Museum to hire a freelance graphic and web designer who will create an online Palmer photo bank that will be linked to the Museum’s recently updated web-site.
This project is the first step in providing public access to the historical photographs of our area and is being completed with the participation and support of the Palmer Public Library, United Protestant Church and St. Michael’s Catholic Church, whose photograph collections will also be included in the photo bank. It is the Museum’s hope that other organizations in the community will eventually contribute their historical photography collections so that visitors and researchers only have to go to one source to learn more about Palmer history.
The project is designed to help the Museum conduct a complete catalog of its photography collection, accession them into our permanent collections, properly relocate them into archival materials and establish an online photo bank to allow better public access. The project will include a special identification phase where the City of Palmer has generously offered the use of the Palmer Train Depot for three evenings in February 2016. During this time, the Museum will host an historical photography open house where members of the community will be invited to view and identify those photographs the museum is currently unable to so that we may complete the cataloging process.
Although we have officially left summer behind, that doesn’t mean that the fun has to end. To help our valley residents survive the cold
Our first Movie with the Museum is generously being sponsored by Cover Ups and will be a culinary experience for all the senses. We will be screening the delicious comedy “The Hundred Foot Journey” with Helen Mirren on Saturday, November 21st at 7:00PM. Preceding the movie at 5:00PM, we will be offering a French/Indian cuisine cooking class with our very own Denise Statz of NonEssentials where you will not only learn how to prepare a delectable entrée and dessert but you will also have the opportunity to dine with your class prior to the screening. The cooking class will have limited availability so be sure to purchase your tickets early! Ticket prices are as follows: Movie only: $5.00/person, FREE for museum members Cooking class and a movie*: $25/person or $40/couple** (purchased in advance) $30/person or $45/couple** (day of event) $15/museum member This year, the Museum will participating in the second annual Palmer Small Business Saturday during Thanksgiving weekend.
Small Business Saturday is designed for local residents to step up for their neighborhoods by doing their holiday shopping at local small businesses rather than face the crowds at larger commercial stores during Black Friday. By supporting smaller businesses a day later, you not only help to promote commerce where you live at the grassroots level, but you can enjoy your shopping experience at a leisurely less crowded pace and find more meaningful and lasting gifts. To support this movement, the Palmer Museum will not only be offering its regular great selection of Alaska gifts and art but will also be transforming a part of its main gallery space into a local art boutique that will feature the works of local artists: Pat Garley, Colleen Wake, Sandra Cook, Suzie Althens, Cecil Sanders, Benjamin Schleifman, June Pardue and others, who will be offering their works at a consignment price so not only are you supporting the museum but you are also supporting a local artist! 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 museum’s collections contain items that best depict region’s art history, exploration, settlement, agriculture, and trade, cultural and social development. The museum operates during the winter months from October 1st through April 30th, Wednesday through Friday, 10:00AM to 5:00PM and second Saturdays of the month, 10:00AM to 6:00PM
NOV. 2015
The event will also include a slide show presentation of some of the Museum’s photography collection. The online photo bank will include thumbnail images of historical photographs from the Palmer region with the capability of being able to
As part of this endeavor, the Museum’s holiday exhibit, Reflections of Palmer, provides a preview into the project and includes a small sample of the historical photographs the Museum currently owns that will soon be catalogued, some of them just recently donated this year! The exhibit will be on display beginning Saturday, November 14th and will run through December 31st. Be sure not to miss this rare opportunity to view a sample of the Museum’s permanent collections and to learn more about the project and how you can help.
days ahead, the Palmer Museum has created a fun new winter program with the support of the United Protestant Church (also known as the Church of a Thousand Trees): Movies with the Museum. Each month, the Museum will host a different movie event at the church, sponsored by a local business that is sure to not only entertain but delight all those that attend.
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The Palmer Museum was recently awarded a grant from the Collections Management Fund of Museums Alaska, with the generous support from the Rasmuson Foundation, to support the Museum’s Photography Collections Project.
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Museums
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Food
NOV. 2015
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> Bistro Red Beet will hold its first ever Supper Club as part of their upcoming week long eighth anniversary celebration in December. Planned as a monthly event, Red Beet Supper Club is designed to be celebrate seasonal Northern food. If you enjoy feasting is comfortable style, socializing, trying new flavors and evenings that linger, then Red Beet Supper Club is for you. This supper club is about the experience as much as it is about the food. Menus are carefully planned around local food, handmade gifts are presented to guests, seasonal décor create ambiance, and communal tables encourage conversation and laughter. This is not your quiet table for two, but something more akin to a cross between a family holiday and a friend’s dinner party. Everyone is seated communally and food is served by a mixture of individual dishes and shared platters. Aperitifs are served upon arrival and seasonal appetizers hold guests until dinner is served. Wines and hand crafted breads and crackers accompany courses throughout the evening. Menus are Chef’s choice, with guest discovering offerings as they are served. Chef and owner, Sally Koppenberg is passionate
Jewelry
BUYING JEWELRY
about local food and is known for her distinctive seasonal cooking. She uses her signature ability to transform the norm to the covetable for a relaxed, fun evening of lingering flavors. “Complicated is not always better” she says. “Sometimes just the right amount of simple flavor, presented in an honest dish is the most desired food at the table. There is nothing more enjoyable than good conversation around a table of good food.”
Contributed by Charissa of Charissa Fine Jewelry
Have you ever wanted to know more about the jewelry you are buying? Worried that you may be getting ripped off? I have made some uniformed jewelry purchases in the past, which left me extremely dissatisfied. Not wanting the same to happen to you, each month I will discuss with you different topics about all things jewelry.
Koppenberg anticipates the monthly Supper Club to sell out well in advance, so you may not want to wait around to secure a spot at this table. Reservations can be made by email, phone, Facebook message or in person at Bistro Red Beet. Reservations are by credit card only. Supper Club begins at 7pm.
Let’s get started this month with a quick overview of gemstones and a durable metal.
Prices vary monthly according to menu. December’s special anniversary celebration will be December 17th , price is 65.00 per person. Casual dress is suggested. Come hungry.
This is important information because you want to properly clean your jewelry without damaging it.
For reservations: redbeet@ mtaonline.net; https://www. facebook.com/BistroRedBeet; 376-1400 between 10am and 4pm for phone reservations, 10:30 – 3:30 Tuesday – Friday in person at the Bistro.
Not all gemstone colors are natural. Some gemstones have different treatments to enhance their color and the luster, which include, heat, waxed, bleached, and dyed; or even to fill fragments within the stone.
You want to be sure the gemstone of your choice is durable for rings, because some stones are softer than others. Wearing rings are the toughest on gemstones because they get knocked around a lot, even though we try to be careful. For this, you can see where the gemstone ranks on the Mohs
scale of hardness, the hardness of a gemstone. Diamonds rank 10 because they are very hard, whereas talc is ranked 1.
Metals used your jewelry is important too. If you are hard on your jewelry, then you will want to choose a durable metal such as platinum. Platinum is becoming popular once again, not just for its durability, but for its beauty. Another beautiful metal used in jewelry is argentium, which rarely tarnishes. What is argentium? Why does it rarely tarnish? The answer to these questions and more will be discussed in next month’s edition. If you have anything pertaining to jewelry you would like to learn more about you can send me an email. These articles are written to provide you with valuable information, not detailed, however they will help you make informed buying decisions.
> If you have questions you can email me at charissa. jewelry@gmail.com
Theatre The Alaskan Nutcracker > Friday, December 11 at 7pm
Saturday, December 12 at 3pm & 7pm The Glenn Massay Theater Adult: $15 Student: $10 www.glennmassaytheater.com Come celebrate the holiday season with the sights and sounds of the magical Alaskan Nutcracker! As a Colony Christmas event, Sonja’s Studio of Dance and The Glenn Massay Theater will be bringing a beloved holiday tradition to the Mat-Su Valley, with The Alaskan Nutcracker, on Friday, December 11 at 7pm, and Saturday, December 12 at 3pm and 7pm, in the magnificent Glenn Massay Theater on the Mat-Su College Campus in Palmer. The production based on the holiday classic Nutcracker tale, featuring Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, will get a truly “Alaskan” twist. Conceived and choreographed by the amazing staff of Sonja’s Studio of Dance, this Nutcracker is sure to be a refreshing and memorable telling of the well-known story. The Alaskan Nutcracker tells the tale of a young girl, Clara, who receives a beautiful Nutcracker from her loving uncle, Moose Jaw, played by local actor, AJ Seims, at the family Christmas party. After Clara has fallen asleep, she is awoken to a battle scene between the fierce Mouse King and her beloved Nutcracker. Following the battle she is whisked away to a winter wonder dreamland by a handsome Cavalier. Sonja’s Studio of Dance has brought in professional dancer and recent NYU TISCH School of the Arts graduate, Jonathan Matthews, to be our Cavalier. The Cavalier leads Clara through the land of the snow via dog sled
and arrives at the palace of The Sugar Plum Fairy where she hosts many celebratory dances such as the Arabian Dance, retold as the Aurora Borealis, the “Mother Ginger” Dance complete with tumbling teddy bears, and the Waltz of the Flowers, retold as the Waltz of the Fireweed. The Alaskan Nutcracker is sure to bring a smiles and joyous memories to the Valley with sparkling choreography, witty storytelling and vivid sets, lighting and costumes. Truly a production of, for, and by the community it serves, The Alaskan Nutcracker features more than 40 young local student dancers aged 6 to 17, in the roles of adorable bears, mice, soldiers, snow and flowers, performing alongside lifelong local dancers. In addition to the weekend of performances at The Glenn Massay Theater, the production will be devoting the entire week to community outreach, offering performances to hundreds of schoolchildren who might otherwise not have access to live performing arts.
Prior to the shows you will have the opportunity to experience Trees of the Valley which will be a showcase of local business sponsored holiday trees, decorated to the theme of each business. Displayed in The Glenn Massay Theater’s beautiful lobby, the featured tree will be accepting unwrapped toy and monetary donations for the MatSu Special Santa Program.
> There will be hot cocoa and
cookies for purchase to enjoy with holiday music as you experience this special holiday treat!
Fruitcakes Holiday Comedy Directed by Marcia Beck
Valley Performing Arts brings to the stage this delightfully written holiday comedy, directed by Marcia Beck, veteran actress and award winning director (Season 38’s The Dixie Swim Club). Mix together a batch of fruitcakes, three dozen Christmas trees, 10,000 outdoor Christmas lights, a chicken pox epidemic, two southern spinsters, an estranged old man, a lost cat named “Tutti Frutti” and a Christmas hog named “Buster” and you’ve got the recipe for a fun-filled and touching evening of holiday cheer. Into this world comes Jamie, a kid who has run away from home and come as far as his money will take him. At first he thinks this town’s inhabitants are “nuttier than fruitcakes,” but soon he comes to admire, appreciate and adore this
nutty little town. A moving story of alienation, understanding and reconciliation, just in time for the holidays.
> Fruitcakes opens November 27th and runs thru December 20th, 2015. Regular admission is $20 and student/senior tickets are $18. This endearing holiday comedy will be appearing at Valley Performing Arts, 251 W. Swanson Avenue, Wasilla Call VPA at 373-0195, visit our website www.valleyperformingarts. org, or come by the office, Monday through Friday 9am to 3pm to purchase your tickets. Come join us in our 40th Season celebration of quality live theatre in the valley!
TREES OF THE VALLEY Viewing times: Friday, Dec. 4th 9am - 4pm Saturday, Dec. 5th 9am - 2pm Both followed by Candy Cane Lane Friday, Dec. 11th 9am - 4pm Saturday, Dec. 12th 9am - 2pm Both followed by The Alaskan Nutcracker Celebrate the holiday season with The Glenn Massay Theater as they present the Trees of the Valley! As a highlighted event in Colony Christmas, Trees of the Valley will be a showcase of local business sponsored holiday trees, decorated to the theme of each business. Displayed in The Glenn Massay
Theater’s beautiful lobby and featured throughout Sonja’s Dance Studio’s performances of Candy Cane Lane, December 4th and 5th, and The Alaskan Nutcracker, December 11th and 12th. The Glenn Massay’s featured tree will be accepting unwrapped toy and monetary donations for the Mat-Su Special Santa Program. There will be hot cocoa and cookies for purchase to enjoy with holiday music as you experience this special holiday treat!
> glennmassaytheater.com 8395 E College Dr Palmer AK 99645 Phone 907-746-9300
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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
SENIORS
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Palmer Senior Citizens Center, Inc.
The primary 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; 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
NOV. 2015
Mat-Su Area Partnership (MAP)
An organization of non-profit agencies in the Mat-Su 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 MonFri 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 Divorce Care
DivorceCare is a weekly seminar/support group for men and women that will help you heal from the hurt of separation or divorce. It’s a warm, caring environment led by people who understand what you are going through. Learn practical information and gain hope for your future at DivorceCare Palmer AK.
March of Dimes Alaska Chapter
The March of Dimes is inspired by all babies – those born healthy and those who need our help to survive and thrive. Working together for stronger, healthier babies, in the Valley we work directly with the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. We also provide clinics and organizations with resources and information. We host a March for Babies walk in the Spring and High Heels for High Hopes Runway Show in OCTust. For more information contact our office 276-4111 or email JOdgers@marchofdimes.com.
Alaska Family Services
Alaska Family Services offers a comprehensive array of services for women, children and families in need, including the only nationally accredited Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault shelter in the state. Other major services include, but are not limited to, behavioral health and substance abuse counseling, WIC, Child Care Assistance, ASAP, parenting workshops, family violence intervention and case management for Alaska Temporary Assistance clients. All of our programs are designed to strengthen and support individuals and families in the Mat-Su Borough.
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.
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
Financial donation could also be mailed to the Big Lake Community Clothing Closet, PO Box 527069, Big Lake, AK 99652.
The ARTs
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
Pillows for Kids Foundation
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.
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.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska
LINKS Mat-Su Parent Resource Center.
MYHouse Homeless Teen Shelter in the Matsu
Donated by local Alaskans, Big Lake Community Clothing Closet provides quality clothing to people in need, at no charge.
Open Wednesday’s from 11am-3pm All donations of quality clothing in good condition can be donated at the above address during regular hours of operation. Check us out on Facebook
TO LEARN MORE www.akafs.org or call 746-4080
Regan Building 3161 E Palmer Wasilla Hwy. Suite #2 Linda Kupers, Administrative Assistant linda@linksprc.org - 907-373-3632
Big Lake Community Clothing Closet
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
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 - bwoodin@nwresource.org
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-on-one 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.
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 MonFri 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/
We provide little pillows of support and small scholarships that make a significant difference for local children to participate in brain-training activities such as gymnastics, snowboarding, skiing, skating, horsemanship, leadership, art, music, dance, martial arts, and robotics. 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 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. 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
Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums
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. 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. Membership in the Valley Fine Arts Association provides many diverse opportunities for artists. Check our website calendar at www. valleyfineartsassociation.org for upcoming events.
Mat-Su Community Chorus, Inc.
As Musical Ambassadors of The Valley, The Mat-Su 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 will be celebrating 40 years of Quality Live Theatre this season! VPA performs seven plays per season, beginning September and ending in May. We welcome actors, volunteers, program advertisers and play sponsors to join in supporting VPA, one of the oldest continuing operating community theatres in the State of Alaska. The VPA Summer Theatre Arts Program
Purchase your tickets online or from our office. Check out audition dates and show times on our website. www.valleyperformingarts.org or (907) 373-0195.
Valley Arts Alliance
The Valley Arts Alliance is a group of likeminded individuals who have joined together to encourage, sponsor, facilitate and support artistic expression. We are a place for both new and established artists of all types—painters, sculptors, musicians, and those involved in the performing arts—to network and to experiment with new ideas and media. We work with local libraries, schools, museums, art councils, and music and art groups to create more venues for the arts, and to help promote art related events. www.valleyartsalliance.com
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
Alaska Animal Advocates
Make a difference. Save a life! Alaska Animal Advocates is reaching out to the community. We provide everything that is needed to meet a dog’s needs. We ask YOU to provide the love. Contact Angie at 841-3173 or email at aaarescue@yahoo.com Check out our website at www.alaskaanimaladvocates.com
ANIMALS
VARIETY
The mission of the Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center is to care for injured, orphaned and sick wild birds with the goal of releasing them back into the wild; and to educate the public about these birds and their habitats.
United Way of Mat Su was formed in 1987 to serve as a single, borough wide, fundraising agency, but we have grown to be so much more.
Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center
request a live bird program.
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)
United Way provides information on available services through the 211 hotline and website www.alaska211.org and keep current and distribute the Mat-Sui Resource Guide. Our goal is to bring together individuals, companies and agencies to achieve measurable, positive, lasting results. We ask the community to LIVE UNITED which means all of us coming together to volunteer, advocate and give to create a brighter future for all. To find out more visit www. unitedwaymatsu.org or call 373-5807. The United Way of Matanuska Susitna Borough is physically located at 550 S Alaska Street Suite 205 Palmer, AK 99645.
The Valley Quilters Guild
was formed in 1985 to promote quilting in the Matanuska Valley. We currently have a membership of about 180. Our main objectives are service to our community and the education of Quilters. We serve the community by donating quilts to organizations and groups that approach us with their needs. We also give quilts to the victims of fires, child abuse, homeless families, and Law Enforcement agencies for comforting victims of domestic violence. The Guild meets the first Thursday of each month at the Palmer Train Depot at 7 p.m.
Mat Su Sertoma Club
The Mat Su Sertoma Club focuses on hearing health. They are part of a national organization with more than 600 clubs throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The club provides free hearing screens to the public the first Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wasilla Physical Therapy, 3750 E. Country Field Circle, Wasilla from September until May. During the summer we’re fishing, camping and gardening like most Alaskans! The Mat Su Sertoma Club is the host to the Annual Mat Su Polar Plunge, the original valley dip each February. They have been responsible for providing funding to non profits in the Mat Su Borough for more than 5 years, along with scholarship funding for two students who are pursuing an education in the hearing health field. The website is www.matsuhearing.dot to stay abreast of activities. Meetings are held the
The Mat-Su Special Santa program is the largest Christmas gift giving program in the Valley. Mat-Su Special Santa teams with Toys for Tots, Salvation Army, Food Banks, state and local agencies, churches and schools to help families in need. Last year over 3400 children completed a wish list with requests for Christmas presents. The program provided at least two toys/gifts, winter wear when possible, a new book, personal items and stocking stuffers. All of this is possible through the generous donations of our community with over 1000 community members, organizations, clubs and schools either volunteering or donating to the program. This is an all volunteer program. We are also in need of volunteers. The Special Santa Program’s goal is to help children receive the magic of Christmas and know that people care. In reaching this goal the program: 1. Coordinates with agencies and programs to provide for families, 2. Provides the citizens in the Community an opportunity to give, 3. Assists families in need at a stressful time of year, 4. Spreads the joy of Christmas throughout the Mat-Su Valley. Go to www.specialsanta.net for more information or e-mail us at matsu_santa@yahoo.com.
The Last Frontier Honor Flight
Our mission is to transport WWII, Alaska Territorial Guard and Korean War veterans to Washington D.C. to visit those memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices AT NO COST TO THE VETERANS.
Valley Residential Services
VRS provides housing to people with special needs. We define people with special needs as those individuals who are experiencing behavioral or developmental disabilities, low-income levels or who are seniors. VRS currently manages 198 residential units distributed in the Mat-Su Valley and participates in special programs to assist with rental assistance. We can also assist with linking individuals to social service agencies who can assist with life skills programs. (907) 357-0256, www.valleyres.org
TOPS
Take off 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)
Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS) RECYCLE cardboard, magazines, this newspaper and more at your community recycling center. Recycling drop off hours are Tuesday thru Friday 10:30am to 6:00pm and Saturday 10:30am to 3:30pm. We are located at 9465 E Chanlyut Circle, next to the MSB Animal Shelter at the MSB Central Landfill. Volunteer opportunities available. community@valleyrecycling.org, wwww. valleyrecycling.org, 745-5544 Volunteer opportunities available. community@valleyrecycling.org valleyrecycling.org - 745-5544
Valley Residential Services (VRS)
All Donations are tax deductible, according to state and federal laws. You can make a donation to The Last Frontier Honor Flight PO Box 520116 Big Lake, Alaska 99652, or pay with a credit card on our website at www.tlfhonorflight.org. If you would like to volunteer you can contact our President Ron Travis at (907) 892-6097 for meeting times and places.
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
The Sertoma Club - Wasilla
Alaska Attachment & Bonding Associates (AABA)
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.
Mat-Su Community Chorus
Do you love to sing? The Mat-Su Community Chorus welcomes new adult members in all vocal ranges each September and January. We are a well-established, male-female, SATB community singing group conducted by Anna Crowther. Group singing benefits your emotional and physical health and enriches our community, so bring your talents and join the Chorus! No audition required although previous experience is helpful. We offer complimentary performances at public celebrations and deliver formal concerts several times a year. Rehearsals are on Thursdays at the WHS choir room from 7 - 9 pm. Contact us at matsucomchorus@gmail.com or call Sandy at 907-355-5836 for membership details. Like us on Facebook for concert reminders. 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
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, self-advocacy, 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
The Homeless Actors of Mat-Su
HAMS, the Homeless Actors of Mat-Su, is a valley non-profit community theater group created to further theatrical opportunities for actors and technical personnel of all ages, be experienced or beginner and the audiences who have not been fully represented in the valley. With local support we intend to produce a broad range of the atypical classical, modern, comic, dramatic and musical one act and full length plays and improvisational theater that are both educational and entertaining in the traditional and dinner theater format as fundraisers for various local causes and to continue to encourage development of the theater arts in the Mat-Su Valley. Contact Elizabeth Clausen, General Manager, 841-4119; akhams@yahoo.com
Mat-Su Food Bank
At the Matsu Food Bank we provide emergency supplemental food to residents of the Matanuska Susitna Valley. The Matsu Food Bank distributes thru the Food Pantry of Wasilla directly to clients in need. The Pantry hours of distribution are Monday
through Friday from 10:00AM to 1:00PM. The Pantry is located at 501 E. Bogard Rd. in Wasilla. We have three programs operating under the Matsu Food Bank. The community supplied Food Pantry of Wasilla accepts donations of food or funds to help feed our neighbors. We distribute to clients on an emergency monthly basis. We also distribute TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program). This is a program is supplied by the USDA and is also once a month. Our third program is Food4Kids. We prepare and deliver, in safe community locations, nutritious meals and snacks for hungry kids 18 and under. We provide meals during the school year. We have a summer program at various locations around the Valley from Willow to Sutton and provide nutritious lunches for all kids in the valley for free. Our website is: www.matsufoodbank.org. If you have any questions please go to the website or call us at 907-357-3769.
OUTDOORS
North America Outdoor Institute
The North America Outdoor Institute (NAOI) is a not-for-profit community outreach organization providing outdoor safety and environmental awareness education programs for the general public in an effort to save lives from preventable outdoor injuries and deaths. Debra McGhan, debra@naoiak.org 376-2898 , www.naoiak.org
Alaskans For Palmer Hay Flats
Dedicated to conserving the natural and cultural resources of Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge through public awareness, year-round recreation and events, education and enhancement projects. Healthy, outdoor recreation in a safe, beautiful setting is what APH helps provide to all users. 357-8711, alaskans@palmerhayflats.org www.palmerhayflats.org
Alaska Frontier Trappers Association
The Alaska Frontier Trappers Association is a non-profit 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
Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center
The mission of the Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center is to care for injured, orphaned and sick wild birds with the goal of releasing them back into the wild; and to educate the public about these birds and their habitats. AWBRC, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is always looking for volunteers and donations. We are undergoing a building project this summer, and can use carpentry assistance. In addition, regular volunteers are always needed for care of our resident birds. Please visit our web site at http://www.akwildbirdrehab.org/ for further information about us, to volunteer or to request a live bird program.
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. distmgr@wasillaswcd.org
NOV. 2015
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
We are dedicated to working in our community on education, stable income and health. These are the building blocks for a quality life. We provide grants to programs with these areas of focus and administer programs that improve early childhood education, reduce substance abuse and improve senior citizen nutrition. We supply Familywize prescription drug discount cards, which have saved people in the Mat-Su over $500,000 since its beginning.
Mat-Su Special Santa
Tailgaters Sports Bar and Grill. Our next meeting is Nov. 25th. We always have new speakers and a great time. See you there!
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
AWBRC, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is always looking for volunteers and donations. Volunteers are always needed for care of our resident birds, office and web assistance, fundraising and advertising. We will be undergoing a building project this summer, and can use carpentry assistance or donations of materials. Please visit our web site at http://www.akwildbird.org/ for further information about us, to volunteer or to
United Way of Mat-Su
second and fourth Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at Tailgaters Restaurant in Wasilla.
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takes place June through August and are for youth, ages ranging from 7 to 17. The VPA Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony is held each June and our FUN-Raiser is in October.
PAGE 20 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com NOV. 2015
Politics / Opinion Is Alaska Really the Last Frontier?
Presidential Preference Poll
Contributed by Brandon N. Montano
Contributed by Mike Coons
Alaska has always been a land of independence and a place that attracted independent minded people. We know this by those who pioneered this great land—they drafted a state constitution that would replicate the Alaskan spirit of Independence and Liberty. On April 24th 1956, the people of Alaska ratified its constitution “in order to secure and transmit to succeeding generations our heritage of political, civil, and religious liberty.” (Alaska Preamble)
To my fellow Alaskans whom are Republicans and to those whom are non-affiliated but consider themselves to be conservatives. This coming Presidential Preference Poll (PPP) is important and once again, most likely one of the most important times for voting to turn this nation around from the cliff of Socialism/ Marxism/Leninism/Maoism! We the People must vote and help determine the Republican nominee to run against whomever the Democrats put up, the coronation of Hillary seems assured (unless she is indicted). Location, Palmer, at the Palmer depot between 3 pm and 8 pm on Tuesday, March 1, 2016. Picture ID is required. I will be updating this come January with more locations for the State.
I am a fourth generation Alaskan that has a deep respect for this amazing state and what it stands for. However, I am very disappointed to see our political, civil, and religious liberties being destroyed. Meanwhile, there does not appear to be any God-fearing Patriotic men who are willing to restore our principles of Liberty. This is not to say that we should respond with violence, but with the Power of our voices. We know this by Hebrews 4:12 that “The word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword.” There is a famous saying that you never talk about God, politics, or money. But I tell you that without the fear of God, a Patriotic love of ones country/ state, and the poor management of money, surely tyranny will be bred, and this great state will be dissolved of Liberty. If Alaska is to remain the last frontier, Godly men of Valor must rise to the occasion and accept their duty as a Patriot and let their voices ring the sounds of Liberty and Virtue. They must demand that Liberty be safeguarded from the local level of government to the state level. How do we make a difference and defend Liberty in the last frontier? We start by reading Gods Word, attending local meetings, running for public office, being informed of the issues “We the People” face in our communities, and never stray from our moral convictions. If we choose to rise to the occasion and accept our duty, God will surely bless this land and our children will inherit a land where Liberty thrives and wickedness cannot prevail.
To be clear, the rules for the PPP are simple. To be able to vote, you must be a registered Republican. The same holds true for the PPP for the Democrats. Why is this important? Simple. We do not want to allow people whom have been lifelong Democrats or non-affiliated liberals watering down the votes to a weak nominee. That has happened in the past and we cannot let that happen ever again. To those whom are conservatives and disgusted with the Republican Party, the socalled Establishment Republican›s and the past nominee›s that the Republican Party put up, such as Bob Doyle, John McCain and Mitt Romney. To those conservatives that want a strong nominee whom will take charge, not back down, not cower to the PC and negative campaign ads from the Democrats, this article is directed at you! For those whom are not registered as Republicans but would like a means to push for the candidates to follow the Republican Platform which is based on solid conservative
values. Come, join us, and register as Republicans, then vote for the candidate that you feel most supports and would push for those conservative values that you hold near and dear! Following the US Constitution and Bill of Rights, all of it, not just parts or what some “judge” thinks it says! For the more people who are strong conservatives register, the more push-back we have on the Establishment, and the so-called “moderates”, (RINO’s). For those whom are registered Republicans, come out to vote! Get with your friends and neighbors whom are Republicans or the disenfranchise conservatives that are non-affiliated, out to vote and register now! Population wise, we may not be as large as many States, but our votes matter, our delegates we sent to the National Convention matter! History shows many times the conventions have had to vote multiple times to get a majority for the nominee, our vote counts and may turn the tide from a weak nominee to a power house that will blow the socks off the Democrat nominee! Lastly, to those Republicans that are conservative and willing and able to fight the good fight. We need you to do two additional, important things prior to the PPP in March. First, work on those friends and neighbors that are more “moderate” and help them see the light of the conservative values, small government, personal responsibility, and respect over PC, etc. Second, make sure that those non-affiliated people that you talk to are truly conservatives, not Dems, who will register to vote and then vote for the weak candidates. We must vet all so that what we have in the end is unity, strength of purpose and a solid direction to taking our nation back to the founding principles of our forefathers, not just slowing us from going over the cliff of damnation! Please, make this PPP the largest, strongest and most directional in Alaska history!
High Altitude History Contributed by Grover Neely
I never made it to the second lesson. But I started to play and I played a lot. I worked harder every day. Still do. I’d take it to the beach. My good friend Dave would tell me, ”put that thing away! You’re chasing the girls away!”
I have always said “LOVE Music, and she will LOVE you back.” Apply that to the Grandsons and you’re a “Gone, Gone Baby”. To pinnacle my songwriting about astrophysics, you now have a Super Nova… A Big Bang so to speak. We’re learning as I think. I have now introduced my next generation to the love of music. Max ‘The Bomb’ Burns (5 years old) and his brother Harrison ‘Little Man’ Burns (2 years old), “So with the love there is now High Altitude Music: The Band. Like The Rolling Stones we will have a secret band name, for a type of cloaking device, to keep our... travel and flow, free and easy… Alaskan Style.
NOV. 2015
Girls were one of the biggest reasons I wanted to play the guitar. One day I played for two fine ladies. I remember telling them that one day I wanted to be a Beethoven on the guitar. Well I married one of them, and had a beautiful child. My music didn’t help our relationship, in fact it helped tear it apart. When all your man wants to do is play a guitar, it’s a burden, and when OCD takes hold there is excess burden.
Fast forward to present day. One beautiful child grows up and places two beautiful boys in my heart. I have become the MIGHTY PA-PA able to do anything he puts his mind to. When both sides of an equation conjoin to create a resultant, it can be the most unexpected and powerfully wonderful merger.
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
This is my story, the whole story, and nothing but the story, no matter what you think! About the age of twenty, after a long night of wayward youth, I stumbled pass the Kenmore music store. I was walking home to mom and dad’s house. So a side trip could hurt nothing. The $140.00 I had in my pocket was gladly given up for an Epiphone guitar with Grover keys, a music book and two lessons. The lessons I deemed boring and full of minutiae.
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Music
PAGE 22 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Art
Holiday Festivities at Town Square Art Gallery to working with black and white film. Ed has been a journalist since 1970, and has worked in radio, television, newspapers and the internet. He is currently a television assignment manager. He was a cofounder of one of Alaska’s largest whitewater rafting companies, and he and Georgia float rivers every summer. He started shooting digital panoramas when he discovered the panorama mode on a 1.8-megapixel camera and has been refining his art ever since.
Jon and his wife, Jona, travel Alaska extensively, gathering material and experiences for new works of art.
Ten Years,” an anthology compiled by The Old Iditarod Gang. Also available are rare sold-out prints and posters.
They now live near Eagle River, Alaska where they maintain a dog team of registered Siberian Huskies.
> Meet Jon Van Zyle on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, Nov. 28th, 1-4 at Town Square Art Gallery located in the Wasilla Carrs Mall. For more information call 906-376-0123
Both inspirational and functional, the dogs play a large part in Jon’s work, as does the secluded atmosphere of the woods surrounding his studio and home. This is a very special year for collectors of Jon’s posters!
NOV. 2015
2016 marks the 40th consecutive year of Iditarod posters from the Official Iditarod Artist. Jon will be signing and personalizing this poster as well as his 2016 print “Ruby Sky,” new art prints, children’s books and coffee table book, “Iditarod: The First
A Photographic Adventure with Ed and Georgia Bennett Edward and Georgia Bennett are two long-time Alaskans who have combined their love of the outdoors with advanced digital photography. Georgia is a graphic designer specializing in print media. She also has extensive experience in visual merchandising. In photography, her roots go back
Today, Edward and Georgia utilize every spare moment refining and expanding their photographic skills and planning their next adventure! Please join them At Town Square Art Gallery as they share their Alaskan experiences, photography and other creations on Saturday, Dec. 12th from 1-4. Ed explains their excursion this last July, “Georgia and I were privileged to visit a fish camp near Nondalton, Alaska, at the height of the salmon run. Here, on Six Mile Lake, adjacent to Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, we were able to see first-hand the entire subsistence fishing process: setting the net, picking the fish, cleaning and filleting, drying and finally smoking.” Many photos depicting the fishing culture of the Dena’ina Athabascan people were captured. In late August, Ed and Georgia floated the Sheenjek River, which flows south out of the Brooks Range into the Yukon River flats.
The weather presented perfect fall colors and sunny skies when they flew into the headwaters near Double Mountain. Once on the river, the high point for them was a layover day near Lobo Lake, with easy hiking up nearby ridges which provide spectacular views. Over the space of two weeks, they floated from arctic tundra to interior spruce forest, with the usual northerly mix of sun, wind, rain, and even snow.
For Ed and Georgia this was their fifth river trip in ANWR, but their first trip in the fall. Ed remarked, “We will never forget the brilliant golden hues of the river valley, with bright reds on the flanks of the gray mountains. Beautiful!” Ed and Georgia’s photos are now being reproduced on metal, a new technology that results in images of astonishing depth and vivid colors. The same technology also allows them to put images on glass cutting boards, coasters and other products. Custom sizes are available in metal or canvas to meet need of specific spaces for home or business. Please join Ed and Georgia for their stories and refreshments Saturday, Dec. 12, 1-4 at Town Square Art Gallery located in the Wasilla Carrs Mall. Call 907-376-0123 for more information.
Music
High Altitude History
The Mighty Pa-Pa and the Superboys have recorded in Mike McGaughey’s FM Recording studio. They will be featured on part B “Headed to the Sun”. My sledgehammer closer for my new CD Perihelion to be released 1/11/2016. Part B will forever be Pa-Pa’s folly. At the risk of being fat headed Roll over Beethoven take on my astrophysical acoustic view! Just a little update on the band. Max is doing really well in kindergarten, playing keyboard, bongos, tambourine and harmonica. Harrison is working the harmonica, guitar (ukulele), bongos, and tambourine. Both boys are starting to progress their vocal skills. Harrison will be putting sentences together soon. As a complete band, we performed at the Alaska Home Companion Show. Broadcast live on Radio Free Palmer 89.5 Big Cabbage Radio. Not bad for our first Gig. We’ll continue the flow of High Altitude Music helping good needs events.
We will perform for any good cause. Call us to help your event. Music is healing. If you’d like to get a signed copy of Perihelion, order today. Harrison can’t write yet. I gotta go; the Band is busy… Cartoons are on! Sincerely,
> Grover Neely For bookings and CD’s Call 907-841-6574 www.facebook.com www.reverbnation.com www.soundcloud/groverneely