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VARIETY. GOT IT. WE
Wasilla • Palmer
THEALASKACLUB.COM
JUNE 2016
MAT-SU 365-7384
PAGE 4 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com june 2016
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR ENROLLMENT INFORMATION
www.matsucentral.org (907) 352-7450
PRESS RELEASE – The Matanuska-Susitna Valley, carved by the Matanuska, Knik, and Susitna Rivers, begins in Palmer and Wasilla, extending out to Talkeetna, Alaska and beyond. Brewing in the DIY backyard office of Local Motion Entertainment in Wasilla, is Valley Revival 2016. “ There aren’t any all age venues in the Valley anymore. We got sick of it, so we decided to do something about it.” Dalton said.
Dustin, Dalton, and their bandmates, grew up watching and rocking out with their peers. They also remember watching venues in the Valley slowly shut down until the only places left to play were all in Anchorage. With the establishment of the Local Motion, the boys are hoping to help build the Valley’s music scene, and finally feed the need for live, original music, starting in Wasilla. “Last summer’s shows were the first shows in Wasilla in a long time, and we don’t want to see that happen again,” said Dustin. The team at Local Motion is getting ready to host the second annual Valley Revival this summer. They plan to provide mini games and competitions between sets, collect donations, and provide a platform for underage musicians and their friends. And with the generous help of local businesses, concessions and prizes have been donated to the event this year. Bands from all over the state of Alaska have donated their time and merchandise for their causes, and everyone is hoping for a true revival this year.
You can join the festivities, for free, every Friday this July, from 4:00pm – 10:00pm at Wonderland Park in Wasilla, starting on July 1st. There will be the added bonus of contests with prizes, mini games between sets, killer live music, and of course, tons of hot dogs. They are also collecting for various local causes, including MY House and the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry. Come swing by and make a donation for these events! “We want this (Valley Revival) to be all fun and games, but we also can’t forget what we’re doing here. We are trying to revive a music scene. These kind of things don’t just happen on their own. You can’t sit around and wait for it to happen. You have to do it yourself.” – Dustin Thewind, Transitions. “Transitions and Local Motion would like to give a big thank you to everyone who has supported our efforts to expand the local music community in the past year: The City of Wasilla and the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry for providing the space for our projects to grow, all the bands and musicians who have provided us their time and talents, and of course, the Alaskan music community for allowing us to share our art with you.” – Local Motion Entertainment
“Members of the local band Transitions, Dustin Thewind and Dalton Mullinax, are hoping to spread the already bustling music scene in Anchorage back out into the rest of the Valley.”
JUNE 2016
“We’ve got all kinds of bands on the bill this year,” said Dalton. “We’ve got Awaken Antagonist and The Artificer from Fairbanks coming down. We’ve got Illuminance from Kenai. We’ve got The Quiet Cull and
Carneum from Palmer. There’s Zombie Unicorn, Spitshine, Decepticide, Shifter, and The Jephries, all from Anchorage. Antigen, Eventides, and 3 Kisses from Wasilla. And then there’s almost every finalist from this year’s Battle for Warped Tour, which is Bulletproof Jay, Atlas, Brothers in Arms, Old Hounds. And us, of course.”
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he boys teamed together and created T Local Motion Entertainment, a nonprofit promotional organization focused on growing and strengthening the local music community in Alaska.
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Music
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Non-Profit Directory Families & Children:
Non-Profit Organization? Join our growing list for as little as $15.00/mo! Non-Profit’s Help Our Community!
www.makeasceneak.com/nonprofitdirectory
National Jobs Program
Comes to the Mat-Su Contributed Nine Star Education & Employment & Covenant House Alaska Covenant House Alaska has recently received a national award and support through the Annie E. Casey Foundation to deliver the JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) Program. The JAG program is an innovative curriculum-based program specifically for young people aged 16-24 who have dropped out of high school designed to help them receive their GED or H.S. Diploma and connect them with employment or advanced training opportunities. Covenant House Alaska has contracted with Nine Star Education and Employment services and in addition to providing this service to young people residing in Anchorage, they are pleased to also offer this program to young people in the Mat-Su.
JUNE 2016
Enrollees of the JAG program are instructed in twenty core competency areas that have been determined to be indicators of future success. Competencies are organized in the following six categories: Career development, job attainment, job survival, basic skills, leadership and selfdevelopment, and personal skills competencies. In addition to mastery of the core competencies, youth will also explore career and employment options and the pathways to attain those goals. Enrollment is open now for qualified youth who wish to attain the above outcomes. Instruction will occur at the MYHouse building at 300 North Willow in Wasilla. For additional information or questions please contact 907-743-6074
ARTS:
Families & Children:
March of Dimes Alaska Chapter
Valley Arts Alliance
March of Dimes Alaska Chapter
www.marchofdimes.org/alaska (907) 276-4111 Join the March of Dimes for our annual High Heels for High Hopes this fall. To become a model or participant, call 276-4111. The March of Dimes helps moms have fullterm pregnancies and healthy babies. And if something goes wrong, we offer information and comfort to families. We research the problems that threaten our babies and work on preventing them. About 4 million babies were born in the United States last year, and the March of Dimes helped each and every one through research, education, vaccines and breakthroughs. The March of Dimes: working together for stronger, healthier babies.
www.ValleyArtsAlliance.com Valley Arts Alliance, bringing the community together through the arts... We are a place for both new and established artists of all types—painters, sculptors, musicians, and those involved in the performing arts—to network and to experiment with new ideas and media. We work with local libraries, schools, museums, art councils, and music and art groups to create more venues for the arts, and to help promote art related events. Join us at our informal weekly meetings, every Thursday @ 11 at Sophia’s Cafe, 9191 E Frontage Road, Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. Check out our archives www.ValleyArtsAlliance.com
Mat-Su Health Foundation healthymatsu.org (907) 352-2863 The Mat-Su Health Foundation offers financial and strategic support to wellmanaged 501(c)(3) organizations that offer services and practical solutions to significant health-related problems impacting the citizens of the Mat-Su Borough. The foundation also offers academic and vocational scholarships to Mat-Su residents who wish to pursue health and wellness related careers.
Pets & Animals: Alaska Animal Advocates www.alaskaanimaladvocates.com (907) 841-3173 Alaska Animal Advocates is a non-profit group of dedicated volunteers who are devoted to enriching the lives of companion animals in Alaska. In order to do this, we will place homeless pets in loving environments, address medical concerns, spay or neuter, microchip, vaccinate, and offer training as is needed. We believe that every animal deserves a loving home, for his/her entire life and Alaska Animal Advocates will provide the resources to make this happen. In order to make this mission possible, we need the help of volunteers and foster homes.
www.marchofdimes.org/alaska (907) 276-4111 The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. About 4 million babies were born in the United States last year, and the March of Dimes helped each and every one through research, education, vaccines and breakthroughs. The March of Dimes: working together for stronger, healthier babies.
HOMELESS YOUTH: Mat-Su Youth Housing (MY HOUSE)
CONSERVATION: Valley Community for Recycling Solutions www.valleyrecycling.org (907) 745-5544 It’s not just for hippies anymore! Everyone in the Mat-Su valley can recycle. Drop your stuff off Tues – Fri 10:30 to 6 and Sat 10:30 to 3:30. Recycle cardboard, magazines, this newspaper and more at your community recycling center. Remember to REDUCE, REUSE, and then RECYCLE! We are located at 9465 E Chanlyut Circle, next to the MSB Animal Shelter at the MSB Central Landfill. Volunteer opportunities available. Make a difference in your community! Check out our website for details www.valleyrecycling.org - Call us at 907.745.5544 with questions or comments.
myhousematsu.org (907) 373-4357 MY House is a homeless youth drop in center with two for-profit businesses that train and employ homeless youth. Gathering Grounds Cafe is a coffee shop with homemade soups, sandwiches, salads and baked goods. Steamdriven is a trendy thrift shop featuring Steampunk items made from repurposed donations by our youth designers. Fiend2Clean and Young People in Recovery offer support for substance abuse recovery with activities and events. We offer transitional housing for qualified 18-24 year olds, Outreach services to connect homeless youth, organizations and groups to services, and access to Public Health and NineStar job/education services on site.
SOCIAL ADVOCACY: Wasilla Homeless-Committee
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES: Mat-Su Regional Adult Basic Education (Nine Star) MatsuAdultEd@ninestar.com (907) 373-7833 Mat-Su ABE provides basic education in math, language arts and English as a second language (ESL), aiming to raise student skills beyond the high-school level in order to pass tests like the GED, enter training programs or college, and advance on the job. Enrollment is open to all adult residents of Alaska, yearround. Youth Employment for ages 16-24 not in school -- get a job, keep a job, advance on the job. Nine Star 300 N Willow 373-3006 (in the MYHouse building)
www.wasillahomeless-committee.org (907) 521-2949 Wasilla Homeless-Committee is a 100% volunteer organization funded by private donations and regular fundraising events. Our sole purpose is to assist the homeless, those at risk of homelessness, and others who do not meet the criteria for help that is required by other advocacy agencies in the valley. Wasilla Homeless-Committee provides case management, housing search assistance, move in assistance, job search assistance, clothing, furniture, help with transportation, and resource guidance for homeless and disenfranchised in the Mat-Su Valley. Visit our website for application, or call 907521-2949. Find us on Facebook facebook.com/ wasillahomelesscommitteepage
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Music
Contributed by Sterling Silver Band & Big Lake Chamber of Commerce Good Wholesome free family fun! Every Saturday throughout the summer 2016!
June: 4, 11, 18, 25 July: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 August: 6, 13, 20, 27 ATTENDEES: These events are intended for the enjoyment of both kids and adults alike!
All of this, and now a bandstand where the musical magic is happening! Bring a picnic! Bring a folding/camp chair and have some fun! FYI: Boaters can enjoy from the water! MUSICIANS: Sound system provided, just bring your gig kit (guitar, amp, microphone, drum set, etc.).
Valley Performing Arts Annual Meeting & Awards page 11
Please call 907-982–8033 in advance for information, schedule and bookings. See you there!!
Keep up with this free weekly event and see the full story of its inception, by visiting our Facebook page “Saturday in the Park” for regular event updates. Stay tuned here in The People’s Paper for more monthly from Sterling Silver Band.
ART ON FIRE 2016 page 12
Jay Nolfi-Fish Creek Park is located In Big Lake at South Big Lake Road and Fish Creek. This 3-acre day use area provides access to Fish Creek.
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Big Lake Chamber Of Commerce and Sterling Silver Band Present “Saturday in the Park” Music Festivals at Jay Nolfi Fish Creek Park in Big Lake every Saturday 11am– 3pm. All summer long!
lawn area.
Its facilities include a salmon observation deck, pavilion, tables, picnic area, restroom, fitness court, parking, playground and open
JUNE 2016
EXPERIENCING THE ‘LIE’ IN ART page 14
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Community Events Art STEVE TOUTONGHI BOOK SIGNING 6/16/2016 - 4PM Fireside Books FREE Admission - (907) 745-2665 www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
BABY MASSAGE Every Thursday starting June 16 - 4PM Mat-Su Health Services FREE Event - (907) 354-7169 DINNER WITH THE AUTHOR 6/16/2016 - 6PM Fireside Books Turkey Red FREE Admission - (907) 745-2665 www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com CIRCUS TAKES FLIGHT June 16-18, 2016 - 7:30PM Green Light Circus Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, Talkeetna Tickets Sold At Door www.denaliartscouncil.org ALASKA HEMPFEST 2016 June 17-19, 2016 - 11AM Alaska Hempfest Camp Redington, Kenny Lake FREE Event, $10 Suggested Donations www.alaskahempfest2016.com MOMMY BABY FAIR 6/17/2016 - 12PM Anchorage MatSu BirthNetwork Matanuska-Susitna Borough Gym FREE Admission, Donations Accepted Check us out on Facebook
JUNE 2016
2016 PREPPER, SURVIVALIST & MILITIA RENDEZVOUS June 17-20, 2016 - 2PM Southcentral Patriots Fort Wick, Talkeetna FREE Event david.luntz@hotmail.com southcentralpatriots@gmail.com MY HOUSE BAREFOOT MILE 6/17/2016 - 6PM MY House & JOY International Wonderland Park, Wasilla Donations Welcome http://myhouse.joy.org/
Submit Events Online www.MakeASceneAK.com BEER MEETS CHOCOLATE June 17, July 15, Aug. 19, Sept. 16, 2016 - 6PM Arkose Brewery 650 E. Steel Loop, Palmer Cost: $25 - (907) 746-2337 info@arkosebrewery.com www.arkosebrewery.com ROGUES & WENCHES: SOLSTICE CONCERT 6/17/2016 - 9PM TapRoot Cost: $5 in Advance, $7 @ Door www.taprootalaska.com BIG LAKE MUD VOLLEYBALL 6/18/2016 - 9AM Big Lake Lions Recreation Center Registration: $200 - (907) 892-8687 fishcrk@mtaonline.net SATURDAY STITCHING 6/18/2016 - 10AM Twisted Sisters’ Quilty Pleasures FREE Event www.twistedquilting.com 15TH ANNUAL ALASKA 4X4 MEET & GREET 6/18/2016 - 10AM Alaska 4x4 Meet & Greet Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry Cost: $15 per person, $40 per family (4 people) Check us out on Facebook CIL GREGOIRE BOOK SIGNING 6/18/2016 - 10AM Fireside Books FREE Admission - (907) 745-2665 www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com “SATURDAY IN THE PARK” MUSIC FESTIVALS Every Saturday starting June 18 - 11AM Big Lake Chamber of Commerce & Sterling Silver Band Jay Nolfi Fish Creek Farm, Big Lake FREE Event - (907) 982-8033
Anchorage Downtown Partnership, Ltd. FREE Event www.anchoragedowntown.org EDMONDS IMPORT OVAL RACE 6/18/2016 - 2PM Alaska Raceway Park Cost: $0-20 (907) 355-7223 pr@raceak.com www.raceak.com CRAFT BEER LEAGUE 6/18/2016 - 6PM Settlers Bay & Bear Paw River Brewery Settlers Bay Golf Course FREE Event - (907) 376-5466 www.settlersbay.com PROJECT AK 2 - SUMMER JAM 6/18/2016 - 9PM Project AK 2 Hosts Menard Sports Center Tickets: $15-$725 Check us out on Facebook YOGA ON THE GREEN Every Sunday starting June 19 - 10AM Anjali Yoga Room Settlers Bay Golf Course Cost: $10 - (907) 376-5466 EDMONDS IMPORT AUTO FATHER’S DAY TOP ELIMINATOR, PRO-NOSTALGIA, POINTS DRAG RACING 6/19/2016 - 10AM Alaska Raceway Park Cost: $0-20 (907) 355-7223 pr@raceak.com www.raceak.com BEGINNERS GUIDE TO HIKING CROW PASS 6/19/2016 - 2PM Eagle River Nature Center FREE Event, $5 Parking Fee for Non-Members Check us out on Facebook
CHERY MANNING BOOK SIGNING 6/18/2016 - 12PM Fireside Books FREE Admission - (907) 745-2665 www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com
RAG QUILT CLASS 6/22/2016 - 6PM Twisted Sisters’ Quilty Pleasures FREE Event www.twistedquilting.com
DOWNTOWN SUMMER SOLSTICE FESTIVAL & CONCERT 6/18/2016 - 12PM
WEDNESDAY NIGHT COED LEAGUE NO COMMITMENT Every Wednesday starting June 22 - 6:30 PM
Settlers Bay Golf Course Green Fee: $16 Cart Fee: $11 (907) 376-5466 18TH ANNUAL FOUNDERS SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT 6/23/2016 - 12PM Ami Sommer Settlers Bay Golf Course $500 per Team Donations Welcome www.sara@tutkallc.com
WASILLA SUMMERFEST 2016 June 23-26, 2016 - 4PM or 12PM City of Wasilla Menard Center, Wasilla Tickets: $1 per ticket, $35 for 40 tickets, $30 wrist band www.cityofwasilla.com ANGEL OLSEN CONCERT June 24-26, 2016 - 10PM Tap Root Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $35 both nights www.taprootalaska.com MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT 6/24/2016 - 7PM Northern Industrial Training (NIT) Hermon Brothers Ball Field, Wasilla FREE Admission, Donations Welcome www.allevents.in ART ON FIRE 6/25/2016 - 10AM Valley Arts Alliance Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry Cost: $10 http://valleyrecycling.org/event/art-on-fire/
WHELEN OVAL RACE 6/25/2016 - 2PM Alaska Raceway Park Cost: $0-20 (907) 355-7223 pr@raceak.com www.raceak.com AN ALASKAN COLLABORATION 6/25/2016 - 3PM Talkeetna Artist Guild Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, Talkeetna FREE Admission www.denaliartscouncil.org MARIANNE SCHLEGELMILCH BOOK SIGNING 6/25/2016 - 4PM Fireside Books FREE Admission - (907) 745-2665 www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com DINNER WITH THE AUTHOR 6/25/2016 - 6PM Fireside Books Independence Hotel & Restaurant Banquet Hall FREE Admission - (907) 745-2665 www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com 7TH ANNUAL RIDE FOR A CURE 6/26/2016 - 9:30AM KMBQ Valley Radio/MS Association Alaska State Fairgrounds Cost: $25 Donation per entry/ticket Eddie.maxwell@ohanamediagroup.com PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP 6/28/2016 - 2PM Learn to Shoot Alaska & Cherish the Moments The Coffee Corner, Wasilla Cost: $60 Check us out on Facebook
TESORO OVAL RACE 7/1/2016 - 2PM Alaska Raceway Park Cost: $0-20 (907) 355-7223 pr@raceak.com www.raceak.com TESORO JUNIOR DRAGSTER OLYMPICS, KING OF THE STREET/GAMBLER’S BRACKET DRAG RACING 7/2/2016 - 12PM Alaska Raceway Park Cost: $0-15 (907) 355-7223 pr@raceak.com www.raceak.com JARI PIPER HOUSE CONCERT 7/2/2016 - 7:30PM Denali Arts Council Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, Talkeetna Tickets: General Admission $15, DAC Member $13, Children $5 www.denaliartscouncil.org TESORO TOP ELIMINATOR, PRO-NOSTALGIA, & POINTS DRAG RACING July 3-4, 2016 - 10AM Alaska Raceway Park Cost: $0-20 (907) 355-7223 pr@raceak.com www.raceak.com 4TH OF JULY PARADE 7/4/2016 - 11AM Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce Downtown Wasilla FREE Event - (907) 376-1299 www.wasillachamber.org WALK WITH OUR FLOAT 7/4/2016 - 11AM Alaska Right to Life Downtown Wasilla FREE Admission Check us out on Facebook JUNE 2016
FLEA MARKET 6/25/2016 - 11AM Wasilla Area Seniors Housing Department FREE Admission - (907) 376-3104 karenam@alaskaseniors.com
Annual Valley Tattoo Party 6/25/2016 - 2PM Denali Harley-Davidson FREE Event www.denaliharley.com
WE WANT TO CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY 7/1/2016 – All Day Twisted Sisters’ Quilty Pleasures FREE Event www.twistedquilting.com
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NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION GOLF OUTING 6/23/2016 - 2PM National Association of Women in Construction Settlers Bay Golf Course Cost: $150 per person, $500 per team (907) 376-5466 www.nawic-ak.org
FLIPPING FOR GOLF TOURNAMENT 6/25/2016 - 2PM Alaska Cheer Booster Club Settlers Bay Golf Course Cost: $150 per person, $500 per foursome team, $500 Sponsorship Holes www.alaskacheerbooster.com
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Community Events
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Community Events PLAY 60 EVENT 7/7/2016 - 9AM Mat-Su Seahawkers Menard Center, Wasilla Cost: $10 www.matsuseahawkers.org
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
BEAR PAW FESTIVAL July 8-12, 2016 - 10AM Bear Paw Festival Eagle River Town Square Park Check Website for Ticket Information www.bearpawfestival.org PERENNIALLY CRAZY 7/8/2016 - 10AM Twisted Sisters’ Quilty Pleasures FREE Event www.twistedquilting.com 2ND ANNUAL PTARMIGAN PEDIATRICS SUMMER FAIR 7/8/2016 - 2PM Ptarmigan Pediatrics FREE Admission - (907) 357-4543 ncaldarea@ptarmiganpeds.com PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP July 8-9, 2016 - 2PM Learn to Shoot Alaska & Cherish the Moments The Coffee Corner, Wasilla Cost: $60 Check us out on Facebook
JUNE 2016
TAI CHI (FOR 60+ ONLY) Every Friday from 7/8/20168/12/2016 - 2PM Mat-Su Health Services & WASI FREE Event, Register by July 6th (907) 376-2411 www.matsuhealthservices.org
Palmer Mayor
PALMER MIDSUMMER GARDEN & ART FAIRE 7/9/2016 - 10AM Palmer Garden & Art Downtown Palmer FREE Admission palmergardenandart.org PMGAF: TOPIHAIRY CHALLENGE 7/9/2016 - 12:30PM Palmer Vic Palmer Museum of History & Art FREE Event - (907) 746-7668 Check us out on Facebook PMGAF: RHUBARB RUMBLE 7/9/2016 - 2PM Palmer Vic Palmer Museum of History & Art FREE Event - (907) 746-7668 Check us out on Facebook BEER MEETS CANVAS 7/9/2016 - 2PM Arkose Brewery Cost: $35 - (907) 746-2337 info@arkosebrewery.com www.arkosebrewery.com DIVERSIFIED TIRE OVAL RACE 7/9/2016 - 2PM Alaska Raceway Park Cost: $0-20 (907) 355-7223 pr@raceak.com www.raceak.com FAMILY GOLF NIGHT 7/10/2016 - 4PM Settlers Bay Golf Course Cost: $10 - (907) 376-5466
PALMER WINE WALK 7/8/2016 - 6PM Palmer Vic Palmer Museum of History & Art Cost: $35 - (907) 746-7668 www.palmermuseum.org
BOOK SIGNING: GOD HAS A REASON FOR EVERYTHING 7/14/2016 - 6PM Chery Manning, Author Barnes & Noble, Anchorage FREE Event - (907) 355-8099 cherbearbooks@gmail.com godhasareasonforeverything.com
5K/10K FOR LIFE 7/9/2016 - 10AM HeartReach Center Honda Hartley Motors, Palmer See Website for Prices www.heartreachalaska.com
TUMBLEDOWN HOUSE CONCERT 7/14/2016 - 8PM TapRoot Cost: $10 in Advance, $13 @ Door www.taprootalaska.com
ALASKA SAFETY TEST & TUNE & PRO TREE GAMBLER’S BRACKET DRAG RACING 7/15/2016 - 4PM Alaska Raceway Park Cost: $0-15 (907) 355-7223 pr@raceak.com www.raceak.com CARDBOARD CITY MAT-SU 7/15/2016 - Overnight Family Promise Mat-Su AK State Fairgrounds, Palmer FREE Event www.familypromisematsu.org MILES 4 MEALS ON WHEELS 7/16/2016 - 10AM Wasilla Area Seniors Housing Department Cost: $20 per person, $60 team of 4 (907) 376-3104 11TH ANNUAL TRAPPER CREEK FIREWEED FESTIVAL 7/16/2016 - 11AM Trapper Creek Community Services Association Trapper Creek Community Park, Mile 115.2 Parks Hwy. FREE Event (907) 733-7377 TCFireweedArts@hotmail.com www.trappercreek.org URBAN JUNKTION VINTAGE MARKET July 16-17, 2016 Urban Junction Menard Sports Complex, Wasilla Tickets: $5 http://urbanjunktion.com/urbanjunktion-vintage-market/ DIVINELY YOU CONCERT 7/23/2016 - 11AM Divinely YOU Palmer Alehouse FREE Event, Donations Welcome www.antiqualibbey.com/divinelyyou-501-c3
DeLena Johnson
IS PROUD TO SUPPORT LOCAL ARTS AND COMMUNITY EVENTS. PaLMer resiDent? Let your opinion be heard! djohnson@palmerak.org
PRESS RELEASE Supporters, volunteers and patrons of Valley Performing Arts gathered on June 8th to celebrate VPA’s 40th season of providing quality live theatre at the Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony at the Machetanz Theatre in Wasilla.
State Representative Shelley Hughes began the evening by presenting a citation from the 29th Alaska State Legislature to Larry Bottjen, VPA’s former Artistic Director, in recognition for his 40+ years of service to Valley Performing Arts and the community. VPA Members (Season Ticket Holders) elected Janel Gagnon, Elizabeth Hanson and Airel Talon-Keller to the VPA Board of Directors during the meeting. They also selected the following season standouts with the Members’ Choice Awards: Best Set Design: Suzanne Hermon, On Golden Pond Best Lighting Design: Rod Mehrtens, On Golden Pond
Best Sound Effects: DJ Rotach, The Hallelujah Girls Best Costume Design: Mary Martushev, Anne of Avonlea Best Supporting Actress: Cathy John, “Carlene Travis”, The Hallelujah Girls Best Supporting Actor: Micah Horning, “Jamie”, Fruitcakes Best Actor: Kevin Cochran, “Norman Thayer”, On Golden Pond Best Actress: Tori Hicks, “Suger Lee Thompkins”, The Hallelujah Girls Best Director: DJ Rotach, The Hallelujah Girls Best Production: On Golden Pond VPA’s Board of Directors honored the following dedicated volunteers: Volunteer of the Year: Tracy Jones Best Newcomer of the Year: Tori Hicks Board Appreciation: DJ Rotach Artistic Director’s Award: Mary Martushev
The Milking Stool Award went to Mathew Firmin for his performance as “Nicky Holroyd” in Bell, Book and Candle. Thank you to Alaska USA Federal Credit Union, Edward Jones Investments, MTA, Mat Valley Federal Credit Union, Wells Fargo, Evangelo’s Restaurant, Khan’s Sushi, Settler’s Bay Lodge, MudBusters Car Wash, and Perk-Up Coffee for their generous donations for great door prizes. Valley Performing Arts’ Season 41 starts September 11th, 2016 and runs through May 29, 2017 with Harvey, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolf?, Elf: The Musical, Boeing, Boeing, Lend Me A Tenor,
And Then There Were None, and California Suite. For season tickets please give our office a call at 373-0195. Individual tickets to each play go on sale in August. PICTURED ABOVE: Larry Bottjen Tori Hicks Mary Martushev Micah Horning Tracy Jones DJ Rotach Cathy John
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Master of Ceremonies, Dave Nufer, kept guests entertained as he introduced the presenters and kept things on track for the evening.
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Theatre
www.valleyperformingarts.com
JUNE 2016
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Arts, Community Contributed by Carmen Summerfield
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> The 9th Annual VAA Art on Fire Iron Pour Art Fest will be held at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry, located at 3800 W. Museum Drive (near the airport) in Wasilla, from 10am until 5pm on Saturday, June 25. In the next few weeks, Pat Garley will be offering workshops in metal casting and mold making at his studio in Palmer. These workshops will continue at the 9th Annual Valley Arts Alliance Art on Fire Iron Pour Art Fest, where molds will be poured with liquid iron. > You can make your own cast iron “Art Tile” at the Art on Fire event. The molds, called “Scratch blocks” will be available for $10 and you can “scratch” your unique pattern into this block with tools (nails and chisels etc.) provided. After the liquid iron is poured into your “scratch block” and cools, you can take your “Art Tile” home! Remember to make your pattern in reverse, just like chocolate molds!
JUNE 2016
> Sandra Cook, who owns “SL Cook Pottery and Fiber Werks” in Palmer, will conduct her Raku pottery workshop throughout the day. Sandra will provide each workshop participant (for a small fee) with a vessel or pot of unglazed ceramic ware, known as bisque, which the participants will decorate with a variety of glazes and then fire in one of Sandra’s special Raku kilns. After a short firing, the “red hot” vessels will be placed inside a metal can full of combustible materials, a process that draws the oxygen out of the glaze and is responsible for the unique and completely unpredictable Raku look. After the vessel cools, you’ll be able to take it home!
> Judy Vars will demonstrate her Encaustic wax painting, and you can paint with this hot, colorful medium at her booth for a small fee. Encaustic wax painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves using heated beeswax to which colored pigments are added. The liquid or paste is then applied to a surface - usually prepared wood, though canvas and other materials are often used. This ancient art form dates back to Egyptian times! Try it out! > The Association of Alaskan Blacksmiths will demonstrate blacksmithing techniques, and other fiery arts, such as glass flame working, will also be demonstrated. > Sahara Storm Tribal Dance Troupe will share with you the wonder of belly dance and other exciting, fiery circus performance arts. > We have our “Old Truck” stage set up for live music all day with a great line-up of musicians. > “Gathering Grounds”, associated with MY House, will be providing food from their delicious café menu. MY House Supporting homeless youth by offering a hand up and not a hand out. > The Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry was established to give a home to Alaska’s transportation and industrial remnants, and to tell the stories of the people and the machines that opened Alaska to exploration and growth. That means planes, trains, automobiles and all kinds of other interesting stuff. Check it out! The ticket price is $10, with children under 12 admitted free. We hope to turn this day into another extraordinary Iron Pour Art Fest in the Valley!
Contributed by Selena OrtegaChiolero > The PMGAF is a one day event that occurs the second Saturday of July from 10:00AM to 8:00PM in downtown Palmer.
The event is coordinated by the Palmer Museum with a planning committee consisting of members from local nurseries, businesses, art, garden and state organizations.
Majority of the activity occurs on the green space adjacent to the Mat-Su
Free instructional cooking, gardening and art classes are also taught throughout the day at the Palmer Public Library and in the Palmer Museum’s Showcase Garden. > From 2:00 – 4:00PM, the Rhubarb Rumble takes place on the Borough Green with a tasting station offering free samples of our entries to the public who then determine the winner by voting for their favorite recipe. > From 2:00 – 6:00PM, the Palmer Art Walk takes place at seven local businesses throughout town where they feature either an artist exhibit, demonstration or art-making opportunity. To increase awareness about the ethnic communities that reside in our state, there will be live cultural performances by Mariachi Agave Azul and Ballet Folklorico Xochitlquetzal Tiqun from Anchorage, and Yup’ik singer, Byron Nicholai of I Sing, You Dance fame on YouTube. This year, we are growing the event by including a Palmer Wine Walk fundraiser encompassing the Palmer Art Walk to be held Friday afternoon the day before the Faire; plus, a competition entitled the Topihairy Challenge that will be a gardeninspired hair stylist competition during the day of the Faire amongst our local salons.
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Its target audience is all-inclusive: Members of the community, visiting tourists, all ages, men, women and children. In 2015, the PMGAF had an approximate attendance of 1,600 people with even the Alaska state governor in attendance.
Borough Building. At that location, there are live musical performances and vendors selling their wares throughout the day.
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> It is comprised of five components: Free cooking, gardening and art classes (focusing on addressing issues about eating local, sustaining healthy habits and promoting the arts), the Rhubarb Rumble (a cooking contest promoting the use of local ingredients and creating a demand for local produce as a commercial product, primarily rhubarb), live local musical and cultural performances (comprised of both amateurs and professionals), vendors (local art, crafts, nurseries, food and non-profit information tables), and the Palmer Art Walk (local art exhibits, demonstrations, and art activities involving ten local businesses in the downtown area).
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Arts, Community
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Arts Contributed by Nan Potts
him.”
Have you ever sculpted? Yes, Play-Doh counts. Then you know how much fun it can be. Whether the piece is realistic or abstract, there is something about feeling any sculpting material in your hands. I have toyed with the art of sculpting off and on for many years, but had not experienced a formal class in the art until this past Machetanz Arts & Film Festival.
Mr. Kogan, born in Russia and studied under one of the country’s renowned sculptors, Isaac Brodsky, kicked off the festival with a four-day workshop, “Sculpting the Truth with Simon Kogan”. His unique style and flare for the “truth” took the class on an adventure of “Uncovering the human form” and the hidden emotions that lurk within the subtle poses of the model.
The festival was hosted by the UAA/Mat-Su College, May 31June 5, with a wide variety of arts, artisans and activities. Artists enlightened attendees in workshops of their expertise in a myriad of genres: Drawing, painting, mixed media, photography, prose and poetry, printmaking and 3-D printing, aluminum sand casting, fused glass, Raku firing, mosaics and sculpting.
“Art is a lie,” stated Kogan, referring to art being an illusion and how we as artists see it. “Sculpt what you see,” he emphasized. “Do not sculpt what you know,” were some of his subtle, yet powerful, gems of expertise. He elucidated with his examples of spatial relationships - what’s pushed and pulled; what’s up, what’s down; what’s forward and what’s back.
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Dr. Felicia Desimini, Assistant Professor of Studio Art and Art History, wore the many hats that are donned by the MAFF Director. “Most of it was on my shoulders. It defies description,” she imparted. Dr. Desimini, the College staff and Advisory Council worked over the course of a year communicating, coordinating, grant writing, marketing, budgeting, procuring and setting up for the weekend’s events to make it a very successful venture. One of her procurements was the featured artist, Simon Kogan, in which his workshop I had the honor of participating. “He [Simon] is brilliant and I enjoyed working with him,” bubbled Desimini, having contacted him while he was touring Japan. “He received stellar training. I was extremely lucky to get
An incredible artist with a quick wit and knowing hands, created exquisite human forms in five movements or less. The notes I took comprised of some of his many quotes. They said it all. One of my favorites, “Sculpting is fast, looking is slow.”
depth of knowledge and experience was inspiring,” remarked Pat Garley, this year’s recipient of the Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities, for individual artist. “His technique of working on the form and not going into the details, while still capturing the essence of the subject [model], was profound.” “You’re not going to get what I teach you from text books. All the mechanics of sculpting can be found there,” Kogan iterated throughout the class.
Simon attracted artists and sculptors from Anchorage and the Valley. Professional sculptors, Jim Dault and Shala Dobson participated in the class, both enjoyed Simon and his method of teaching ‘sculpture sketches’ of a model. “He changed my life in the first eight minutes of class,” claimed Jim. “I thought he helped us to see clearly in cubes and rectangular solids as he tipped them slightly to show the form of the model,” Shala elaborated. Adding, “We closed our eyes to see.”
“Simon’s class made a positive impact on me, a positive experience,” commented artist, Rose Hendrickson. “The two things I took away from Simon’s class was: 1. How to work with ‘the clay’ and 2. There are many different types of mediums. His unique approach of creatively pooling spirit and movement in the body - the entire sculpture as one unit. He gave us the ingredients and said, “Go for it!” Rose concluded, “I felt shared with instead of being given a recipe.”
“Simon’s class opened my eyes to a new way of looking at sculptural; his
On our first day of class, with ten students, we produced over fifty
“sculpture sketches”. Finer, more detailed pieces were created in the following days, with not only a greater understanding of how to move the clay, but what it could capture. “Your goal is implied perception,” said Kogan, conveying to us the importance of understanding the “lie” in art. All-in-all, for me, it was an opportunity I couldn’t resist. I am extremely grateful to Ms. Desimini for bringing Simon to Alaska and hope he will return. We, the class, are also appreciative of Simon’s gift to us; he touched our creative being. Simon Kogan, born in Russia and studied under Isaac Brodsky, one of the country’s renowned sculptors. He received his MFA in Moscow before moving to the United States as a young man. Kogan’s work has been featured in exhibitions in the US, Russia, Spain and France with his private and public collections worldwide. Simon is a Fellow of the National Sculpting Society and currently resides with his family in Washington State.
Alaska Music and Arts Builds
Resources for Mat-Su Artists
Contributed by Alaska Music and Arts Center
Dancing on a concrete floor is fatiguing, so the floors are made of sprung hardwood. The ceiling and mirrors are high enough to provide plenty of space for most dance moves, and the natural lighting provides a warm experience in the summer months. We’ve had a great amount of interest in the dance space so far, with a yoga instructor coming on staff and two separate dance programs renting the space during the week. We also have martial arts using the space on most weeknights. All before we’ve finished construction. It’s clear there is a need for this kind of rental space in the area, and we’re thrilled to be providing something. We want to have as many different activities as possible in the space and hope that everyone in the area can make use of it.
Alaska Music and Arts, LLC (AMA) was founded to help provide for this need. We now have a dance and martial arts studio, and will soon have a professional recording studio.
AMA is dedicated to providing this space to everyone who needs it, so we
The AMA Dance and Martial Arts Studio will open September 1st. Alaska Music and Arts can be reached via phone at 907-7454001 or email at amacontact@ alaskamusic.org. Our street address is 1085 S Inner Springer Loop, Palmer, AK 99645
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With two large dance halls, each with two thousand square feet of space, the dance facility is designed from the ground up to provide an exceptional experience for everyone who uses it.
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The Mat-Su Valley area is full of artists. We have dancers, singers, songwriters, and musicians of all kinds. As the area grows, facilities aimed at supporting this artistic population become more and more important.
aren’t becoming exclusive with any providers.
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Arts
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Community
Contributed by Brandi Kinney
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We invite you to join us in raising awareness and finances to help with the rescue, restoration, reintegration and prevention of these victims of child sex trafficking. The Barefoot Mile: Friday, June 17, 2016 at Wonderland Park 500 W Nelson Ave, Wasilla, AK 99654 5:00pm registration à 6:00pm Walk begins Go to myhouse.joy.org to register and/or donate or call MY House @ 907-373-4357 We also invite you to hear Jeff speak at My House Drop-In Center; Thursday, June 16th, 2016 Jeff Brodsky has been walking barefoot for over 5 years. He is the founder and president of JOY International, an organization devoted to the rescue and restoration of child trafficking victims, which has helped to rescue nearly 1,000 children over these years.
Rhubarb, Piñatas and Hairstyles?
Time for the Midsummer Garden and Art Faire!
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Contributed by Brooke Heppinstall, Midsummer Garden & Art Faire 2016 Yes, we’re busy planning another Midsummer Garden and Art Faire here in beautiful downtown Palmer, on the town green and at the Palmer Museum grounds and gardens. Over the years we’ve pruned and fed this event into a rich opportunity for learning about gardening, art, cooking and plenty of fun.
Jeff explains his mission: “On July 19, 2010, I was at a garbage dump in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. We were feeding children at high risk of being kidnapped by predators and sold to a brothel. They were all barefoot. When I got back to my room and took off my shoes, I wondered what it would be like to be barefoot every day. I’ve been barefoot ever since that day. Going barefoot has been my way of showing solidarity with these children and to share with others about their pain.” July 19, 2016 will mark his 6-year anniversary walking barefoot to raise awareness and finances for the sex traffic issues that plague our country and state. In America, up to 300,000 American males and females under the age of 18 are lured into the sex trade. The average victims of sexual exploitation are 11-14 years old! That means instead of attending their 5th grade graduation, these children are subjected to being sold as sex slaves or prostituted by much older adults. This happens right here in the Valley.
Where else can you learn about everything from rhubarb, sheep, and brewing to piñatas and painting in the garden? And it’s all free, thanks to generous support from our community and sponsors. The Rhubarb Rumble, our certified chef challenge, is back with a beverage, savory, and sweet category for you to taste. Local chefs have served up everything from cocktails and cannoli to chocolates and ice cream. But, don’t short the rhubarb by serving her up as a sweet. These chefs have proven that this ancient vegetable is perennial, sustainable and very versatile. You can explore how to prep and use rhubarb with nutrition educator, Winona Benson, from 1 to 1:45 at the Information Tent on the green before the tasting begins at 2pm. So, save your appetite and vote for your favorite recipe! The People’s Choice overall winner
Chorus wins championship again!
For the fifth consecutive time, Alaska’s premier a cappella women’s chorus has captured the Sweet Adelines International Region 13 Championship in Spokane, Washington against 16 other competing choruses on May 21. That’s quite an accomplishment since it was the largest SAI regional competition in the world in terms of the number of competitors. Alaska Sound Celebration Chorus will now be gearing up to once again compete on the international stage in Vegas in October of next year. Last October, the 80-member chorus placed 13th in Vegas, against 32 choruses from all over the world. This is the same barbershop chorus
that has put on the wildly popular Fur Rondy Melodrama for the past 26 years, and has sold out shows every year. ACS has helped enforce the love of singing in young people with a “Celebrate the Music” show each fall at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. This event gives an on-stage spotlight to youth. The Alaska A Capella University one-day workshop for girls, junior high to high school age, teaches them the art of barbershop a cappella music and they then perform on the show that same evening. Also included in the show is “Sing for Scholarships”, a chance for five previously auditioned high school girls and/or boys to compete for scholarship money for college. “Alaska Sound Celebration is a very hard working chorus in the Sweet Adelines organization. It’s
so rewarding to be recognized with two first place medals this year in Spokane - one for Best Mid-Sized Chorus and one for Best Overall Chorus with our respectable score of 634,” the chorus’ Master Director, Peggy Benton said this week. Benton is a music teacher at Ptarmigan Elementary School and has been the chorus director for the past 19 years. The chorus strives to share their love of barbershop with all women in the community, and as such are always welcoming new singers into the fold. The non-profit chorus meets every Tuesday at Wayland Baptist University off Muldoon Rd. from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. “Women come for the music and stay for the friendship,” Benton said. Interested singers are given a taste of being in the group by immediately being placed on the risers with
a binder of music surrounded by supportive women who love to share the joy of barbershop music. Many members will tell you that being a member of Alaska Sound Celebration has changed their lives for the better. “I’ve seen shy women suddenly come out of their shell and find confidence they never knew they had,” 14-year member Kate McKee said.
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PRESS RELEASE
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Music
“For some in this organization, it has been life altering. Being around so many strong, independent, creative, happy women provides a bonding experience that can be difficult to find in our everyday lives. It has brought an enormous amount of joy to my life.” For more information, go to www. alaskasoundcelebration.org or call 566-3987.
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Heartfelt, Faith Independence Through Conflict Contributed by Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain July 4th is Independence Day. On this date in 1776, the United States declared their independence from British rule. This caused a conflict. Britain refused to allow the American colonists’ freedom from oppressive taxes, freedom of the press, and freedom to govern themselves. The American colonists wanted to be free. A conflict ensued which the American colonists won. Independence through conflict. Since the beginning of time there has been another conflict brewing: The conflict between God and Satan. Genesis 1 tells how God created heaven, earth, vegetation,
Treasure Those You Love Contributed by Vic Kohring The older I get, the more my mortality becomes evident and the more I realize how fleeting life is. Having lost close family members suddenly and unexpectedly in recent years, I’ve faced head-on the stark, brutal reality of how fragile life is. As the years have passed and seem to accelerate, I’ve known a great number of folks from my youth through adulthood and from my work in the private sector and legislature who are no longer with us. There have been literally hundreds. I frequently read about people I know in the obituaries, reminding me that any of us can go anytime. Despite my good health, I count myself fortunate to still be on this earth after 58 years. As a young man, I had a naive sense of immortality and felt death was something a very long way off and that I was largely
animals, and man and woman. He also created the angels. Ezekiel 28:13-16 tells us of Lucifer (Satan), his creation as a perfect angel, his beauty, his residence in Eden. Isaiah 14:12-15 tells of Satan’s rebellion against God. Revelation 12:4 tells of one third of the angels who followed Satan’s rebellion. Satan has been in conflict with God from the beginning. Genesis 3 brings us the first confrontation. God told Adam not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Satan comes to Eve and tempts her with the lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh, pride of life. She takes the fruit, eats it, and gives it to her husband Adam. Adam knew what God had commanded and chose to ignore God. The first sin. An animal is sacrificed and blood atonement is made for Adam and
immune to it, being healthy with no infirmities. I was convinced it was a challenge I wouldn’t have to face for decades down the road and that dying was something that happened to others, not me. So I gave it little thought and didn’t worry about it. But as the years have passed, I gradually lost friends and family to illness, disease, accidents and simply old age. So it has hit very close to home. The older I become, the more death seems to occur with greater frequency. I’ve even had several close calls myself through the years. A car accident on a Seattle freeway. Slipping on rocks and plunging into a river while fishing. Breaking through lake ice on a trap line. Gun shots during a political campaign, and a slew of death threats by political opponents as a legislator. God says in Hebrews 9:27 that “It is appointed unto men once to die.” Since no one can escape this inevitable fact, we need to face reality and be prepared. I’m not talking a will or leaving behind wealth and money for survivors.
Eve. God has given men and women a free will to choose to follow or reject Him. Genesis 3:15 tells us of the coming redeemer, Jesus Christ, who died on the cross to be the once for all sacrifice for man’s sin. This conflict is playing out for the souls of men and women. The Bible says in Ephesians 6:12, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” This is Satan and his fallen angels (demons) in conflict with men and women. Who wins? God does at the cross of Calvary. “These things I have spoken unto you, that
Rather, I’m talking being ready in terms of your soul and how it relates to eternity. After this life, we move on to another realm. If we’ve received salvation as outlined in the Bible, we will spend eternity in a much better place, free of the suffering, pain, sickness and illness so commonplace in this life. Last fall, I attended a memorial service for longtime family friend, Leo Powell of Chugiak, who suddenly passed away in October. It was a shock as I just saw and spoke with him three months before when he was vigorous and doing well. In the blink of an eye, he was gone. During the service, Pastor Dave Dahms spoke about the fragile nature of life and how no one knows when it will be our turn to go. Moreover, Dahms not only discussed the importance of salvation, but how important it is to let friends and loved ones know you’ve received God’s special gift and have a covenant with Him. This knowledge will save them the grief of wondering and give them peace of mind. Pastor Dahms strongly recommended that we write down a testament to our faith to leave our loved
in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) “And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.” (Revelation 20:10) “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) Whose side of the conflict are you on? Whose would you like to be on? Contact me: Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, chaplain@ alaskaseniors.com, (907) 715-4001
ones, so they can see for certain that we committed ourselves to God. Of course, verbalizing this fact and living one’s life as a Christian and as a witness to our faith is powerful evidence. But giving family the assurance - in writing - that we were saved is something that will give those we leave behind great comfort. I have, in the form of declaring my faith in the pages of this paper through the months. Such a declaration is far more important than a will, life insurance or anything else of earthly value. A true act of love for those we care about. People you value are a treasure and should not be taken for granted as we all are subject to departure from this world at any moment. God has numbered our days, so it’s only a matter of time. Therefore, hold dear those still with you and let them know how much you love them before it’s too late. You may never have another chance. And more important, get right with God as your future’s at stake. Vic Kohring is founder and executor of New Life Ministries in Wasilla.
Contributed by Donald J. Cutler Now it’s time to tell you How much you mean to me. I wake with every morning sun, You fresh within my dreams. You The The The
are the rhythm my heart makes breath that fills my life. soaring love my soul does take, wings when it takes flight.
With every thought my mind will find You are always there. Tucked away in blankets warm Deep in my heart’s care.
Roofer’s Nails Contributed by Sandra Kleven
Love, it is our baby boy up on the roof because he fired the roofers. You know some days he regrets it. That boy, remember how his beauty astonished us Beyond words that cream cheek, that shock of wheat, his eyes sea-green, yet seeing. Wasn’t he something showing up like that, stilling our struggle, stopping our breath? How did we birth such children? We must be gods I swear. We have saved the world with our high climbing children who fire the roofers and carry on alone.
Contributed by Nan Potts
When summer comes It brings with it Green scenery and such. That if you pause to look at it, Charms senses with its touch. Yes, summer awes With beauty, rare In far-off northern climes. To take it in doth overwhelm, Is seen o’re million times. With each new day The darkness wanes And dawn, a fleeting thing. This midnight sun can cause one’s sleep, Elusive and take wing. How can this be With summer here To warm and ease our souls? The sunlight seeps through black-out shades, “Damn light!” a voice heard, tolls. “The light! The light!” Our neighbors cheer, “It makes our gardens grow.” Behind closed doors and curtains drawn, “The light’s our sleeping foe.” The sourdoughs And natives, both Know better than to whine. No sooner does the summer start, At Solstice it declines.
Contributed by Josh Fryfogle In my path a forest All I see is trees All I see is darkness As I walk beneath Who knows what’s beyond At some point a mountain Searching and I’m thirsty Youth is but a fountain Path is far behind me There below the boughs Sunlight flickers through them Find my way somehow
Somewhere beyond the branches The sunshine touches earth Searching for that place The fountain of my birth I was born in sunlight Somewhere along the way I wandered through the thicket And lost the light of day For now I’m in the shadows Feeling oh so cold Thirsting for some sunlight Parched and feeling old From the woods a clearing A stream in the hollow Drink it in my body Revived and young I swallow Now my thirst is quenched By the water I was made I sit there by the tree line Thankful for the shade
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You may not know the depths you fill, You’re always on my mind. And I will always love you With every day I rise.
Summer, Aahs
Shadow of Darkness
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It’s Time to Tell You
The days draw short So quickly then At nightfall’s swift return. In long, cold-dark of winter’s murk, Glum hearts for daylight, yearn. Then once again Sol reappears, Unclenching winter’s jaws. The light and warmth burst forth so fine, Along with summer, “Aahs.”
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Literature
Her characters are well drawn and believable. Their emotions are plausible. Their psychological action is commensurate with physical action. Not only an action adventure story, it’s a book of hearts and minds, and humans who combat nature and an unfriendly environment to survive and succeed. There are places that captivate the reader and Matthews’ writing is exemplary and riveting.
PRESS RELEASE Alaskan author Bonnye Matthews’ fifth and final title in her “Winds of Change” novel series, The SealEaters, 20,000 BC, came with a first place win this year. It also came with an evaluation by Maryland’s Grace Cavalieri that ranks the quality of her work with that of Michael and Kathleen Gear, Sue Harrison, and others in the popular genre. Cavalieri is a multi-award-winning author of 16 books and chapbooks of poetry, 26 plays, (one performed at the Smithsonian), and producer-host of “The Poet and the Poem” from the Library of Congress.
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She concluded her comments of The SealEaters, 20,000 BC, with: Bonnye Matthews is America’s preeminent writer of prehistoric history. Her task is one we could believe insurmountable- to chronicle the lives, relationships and activities of people 20,000 BC. In this case “The SealEaters”, Matthews tethers fantasy to fact and bases fiction on reliable and credible sources.
In 2016 Matthews discovered that all five of her book wins were adjudicated by Cavalieri, beginning in 2013 with Ki’ti’s Story, 75,000 BC, in Alaska Professional Communicators’ annual contests. Cavalieri’s comments echoed Midwest Book Review’s opinion on the entire series earlier this year. (www. midwestbookreview.com/wbw/apr_16. htm#Fiction) Matthews lives north of Anchorage, Alaska. She began the “Winds of Change” series after she researched to find who the first Alaskans were, assuming that would identify the first Americans, as she had been taught. She discovered in a single day of research that the first Alaskans were not likely the first Americans at all. Shocked that what’s been taught in our schools and universities about the migrations of ancient humans is, in many ways, a fabrication that overlooks and ignores many ancient sites and finds, she launched into years of research and writing that became the “Winds of Change.” The SealEaters, 20,000 BC and other titles by Bonnye Matthews can be found at Amazon, fine bookstores, or from the publisher at www.PublicationConsultants.com. More information at www.BooksByBonnye.com. Alaska Professional Communicators site: http://akprocom.org. Author Contact: Bonnye Matthews, 907.715.8223, Bonnye@BooksByBonnye.com
Community
takes home the coveted Ruby Award. This event supports local agriculture and restaurants by challenging our chefs to use locally grown rhubarb and at least one other local ingredient. With luck some local restaurateur will add a new rhubarb dish to their menu!
Over at the Palmer Public Library’s meeting room, gardeners can learn about everything from invasive weeds, exploring new challenges and crops in a changing climate to safe ways to cook up the now legal herbs. At the Museum patio, local native plant expert and agronomist, Peggy Hunt, will discuss ways to use local plants in salves and remedies. And piñata lovers will have fun making real Mexican papier mache creations with Alma Ortega. We promise they’ll work and you won’t find yourself on Funniest Home Videos making a fool of yourself with a tire iron!
Learn how to sculpt a hypertufa alpine trough with Jaime Rodriguez, The Alpine Nursery, and Museum Gardens head gardener, Alicia Greene. Later they’ll show you how to plant the trough and lead a walking tour through the Mat-Su Agricultural Showcase Gardens after they’re done playing with concrete. Soils expert, Jodie Anderson, will show you how to turn all of it into a golden pile of compost with humor and wit. She’s the only potato expert I know who’s allergic to her specialty! Off campus at local Arkose Brewery, head brewer, Stephen Gerteisen, will demystify the brewing technique and hopefully inspire your inner brew master. We’re hoping for an entry from him in our Rhubarb Rumble. Will there be a limited cask of something rhubarbish and ale-like? For more information about our event and workshops go to http:// palmergardenandart.org. Or stop by our lovely Palmer Museum of History and Art, Visitor’s Center. Pick up a fair brochure, browse the current exhibits and enjoy the gardens.
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This year the Museum Garden is in full swing with a new event: The Topihairy Challenge! This garden-inspired hair styling event teases the creative wiles of local salons to styling heights never before achieved in our windy gardens. Come vote for your favorite creation! Who knows how cool a trowel embedded in a beehive will look! Will there be any bearded folk embellished with flowers
and ladybugs? The gardens will have talks on everything from compost to plein air painting. Join award-winning painter, Nancy Angelini Crawford, and learn how you can paint the roses red or carmine or vermillion or blue!
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Our ever popular workshops are held in several locations this year. On the green, fiber art lovers can learn about sheep and wool crafts from Tara Pollock, local yarn crafter, at her family’s art and crafts Forever Endeavor booth. Anchorage glass artist and designer, Tam Johannes, is also a veteran beekeeper who will lead you through the mysteries of the bee world and beeswax and its artistic use at her Killer Designs booth. Got a yen for bonsai and circus arts? We’ve got that covered, too!
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Community
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Community PRESS RELEASE Greek philosopher, Heraclitus, once said, “The only thing that is constant is change.” Happy to report on a change that creates constancy for something very near and dear to the hearts of those living in & around Trapper Creek, Alaska! Our community is blessed with a group of visionaries who saw fit to generate a park, cemetery, ski trail and community building which serves as the hub of this small town along the Park’s Highway. In fact this beautiful park itself, was the source for the inspiration that our Fireweed Festival was born from. Now in its 11th year, we are celebrating a merger with the Trapper Creek Community Services Association (TCCSA) which, is a nonprofit that oversees and maintains the park facilities as well as organizing the annual winter Cabin Fever Reliever. So, it is a perfect fit to join forces & resources for a structure that will support the longevity of both the summer & winter gatherings. In fact, this year we are all excited by the generous contributions of both
TCCSA and Paramount Cycles for offering a top end fat tire bike that will be raffled off to raise funds for next year’s festival! Along with supporting art, music & community, a primary theme is connecting with nature. This grass roots feeling came to fruition and has remained fruitful for the last 11 years because of the volunteers that put their hard work, hearts and souls into such a wonderful endeavor. A desire to bring all of the amazing artists and crafters together in one lovely gathering, surrounded by nature and enveloped in the sounds of the talented musicians of our community. We hope that folks will come join us for a truly great summer time party in the Park! 11 – 8 Saturday, July 16th, 2016 Trapper Creek Community Park Mile 115.2 Parks Hwy. For info or to be involved, contact us: TCFireweedArts@hotmail.com Facebook: Fireweed Arts Council 733-7377 or 733- 3773