Make A Scene March 2013

Mar 2013

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Locally owned & operated in the Mat-Su Valley, Alaska

> Who Let The Girls Out? Page 7

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

> Fine Artist: Jeanne Young Page 15

> Emma Hill Releases New CD

Page 16

> The Trouble With Technology Page 13

> Marian Call Performs Page 18

Photo courtesy of: Nicholas Bradford

Tax filing

DEADLINE Monday

APRIL 15th

Community F Magazine

By Teeka Ballas

F Magazine – Alaska’s only independent, hyperlocal, volunteer owned and run, high gloss and heavy stock, community arts and culture monthly magazine – last December, published its last issue of Volume 4. That’s four years of bringing readers feature stories, poetry, fiction, photography, art, critique and analysis of the arts in Alaska. Each year we’ve gotten a little bigger, a little meatier, and even a little prettier. And each year we’ve undergone some sort of change.

Year five is nearly here for F, and readers can certainly expect some changes – and we think they’re really exciting.

First off, we’re going quarterly.

How is that exciting, you ask? Well besides offering the editor/publisher a little time to breathe, it’s going to allow us at F to gather and nurture more coverage of the arts from all over the state. The publication is also going to be fatter – (who says chubby isn’t beautiful!?). And most importantly, we’re going back to our roots; FMagazine is going back to

being a project. By project, we mean, we’re going rogue – we’re not going to keep trying to fit ourselves into the contemporary business model. We’ve got a cooler model we’re going to try on for 2013: The F Squad. And that’s all we’re saying. You’ll have to stay tuned to find out more.

In the mean time, take solace in the knowledge that we are going to keep on running all that cool stuff that we do every year: the annual Audio F’ile music compilation and concert; F-Action Music Video Competition; F’Air Words writing competition (which starts January 20, the deadline is April 15th); the F-Raiser Arts Party; Art of Fashion Photography Competition (look for this gorgeous issue in March!); and the Statewide Youth Art & Writing Competition for grades 7-12 (Many thanks to Alaska State Council on the Arts and the Alaska Humanities Forum for helping us with that one!).

Many thanks to all of our supporters and all those who understand that a healthy, vibrant arts culture means a more robust economy, and a better place to live.

To stay posted on upcoming events and competitions, to purchase copies of F Magazine, or to volunteer or donate to the cause, check us out on-line: www.fhideout.org.

This world famous stimulatin’ blend gets you moving in the morning and keeps you going all day

long!

Don’t let the name fool you, this is Great Stuff!

www.CityofPalmer.org

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JOIN THE CITY OF PALMER FOR:

MTA Events Center

- Talk with City departments and Learn more about Palmer!

Community Join Us for the 2012 City of Palmer Capital Project Fair Palmer

Mar 2012

- Share your ideas! - Vote on City projects!

(Formerly the Palmer Ice Arena)

Contributed by The City of

- Invite your neighbors! - See what’s being planned!

Thursday, April 25, 2013 4-7 PM at the

The City of Palmer invites all members of the community to attend the annual Project Fair, to be held in the expanded MTA Events Center on April 25, from 4 – 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served, and door prizes will be offered.

Everyone is encouraged to attend this year’s expanded event, to have the opportunity see the nominated

projects, submit ideas, and interact with various City departments.

Families are most welcome!

Displays will explain details about each nominated capital project and all adult citizens who attend will have the opportunity to vote on the projects they would like to see funded. Each year, the City administration drafts a list of needed projects, and presents them to the public for input and suggestions.

Following the public event, the City Council will prioritize the list of projects and the City will determine the budget costs. The projects will be included in the City’s Capital Construction Budget and the annual Palmer Capital Projects booklet in December. Selected projects will be prioritized and submitted for funding consideration by the Alaska State

Legislature and the Office of the Governor. The process was developed so that considered projects in the capital budget will have been through a comprehensive review cycle.

In addition to the project nominations, those who attend can expect to see various interactive displays and information about how the City operates. City Departments include Community Development, Finance, Public Safety and Public Works, and staff will be available at the fair to answer questions.

Prior to April 4, 2013, capital project nomination forms are available on the City’s website and at City Hall.

Anyone is welcome to fill out the three page form and submit a capital construction project in the City.

To submit a project for consideration,

please access the City’s homepage at www.cityofpalmer.org. Nominations are due by April 4, 2013.

The City of Palmer hopes you will join us for this exciting event!

For further information, contact Douglas B. Griffin, Palmer City Manager at 761-1317

Parvovirus (Parvo) Awareness Contributed by

Angie Lewis with Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue

Symptoms: Symptoms of this virus include severe (often bloody, smelly) diarrhea, vomiting, fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, followed by dehydration, shock, and in severe cases, potentially death.

“What a moose!” I must have known eventually that we’d live in Alaska when I said my first words after my daughter was born. At 8 lb 1 ounce, my daughter was a big baby, but she was especially big compared to the other babies in the neonatal intensive care unit.

If your dog has become infected, keep him isolated from other dogs. Clean up all the stool in your yard and use a 4 ounces of bleach per one gallon of water to soak your ground. It is far better to have dead grass, than having a dead dog. In order to clean food and water bowls, use this same solution for a thorough washing. Wash any bedding your dog has utilized with this same bleach solution and hot water.

Disinfect any areas that your dog has come in contact with. Make sure that all your other dogs are vaccinated as well.

Ptarmigan Pediatrics LLC

Born on September 1, 2000 at 5:48 am, my daughter came as a surprise five weeks early . She spent a few minutes with me in the delivery room, but then was taken to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) where she spent the next four days. Most people realize that it is a problem for babies to be born two or three months early, but often don’t realize that even three to five weeks early can cause significant complications.

As a pediatrician-in-training at the time of my daughter’s birth, I was especially aware of possible complications of babies born at 35 to 37 weeks gestational age.

Babies born even a little early can have respiratory problems, feeding difficulties, low blood sugar, temperature problems and jaundice. More severe problems include infection, stopping breathing, and severe intestinal problems.

Recent medical research also indicates that babies born three to five weeks early may have long term developmental and behavioral complications.

We were lucky we had a strong healthy baby, and that she only stayed a few days in the NICU. We did not have to deal with high hospital bills, or weeks or months of our baby in the NICU. We did not have to travel to another town or across the state as often happens in Alaska to be with our baby in the NICU. I would still rather have had a full term baby and avoided the NICU completely.

There is a big push nationwide to bring awareness of risks to both mother and baby when babies are born even a few weeks early. It’s for that reason that March of Dimes works very hard to bring awareness to the complications of prematurity.

On Saturday, March 23, at the AT&T Sports Center , my husband and I with staff from Ptarmigan Pediatrics will join other community members and participate in the March of Dimes “March for Babies”.

We will walk 40 laps…laps that represent the forty weeks of pregnancy; each and every week important to a baby’s health and development.

Please join us!

Feb 2013

Diagnosis: The virus can be detected in the stool of an infected dog. In addition, a blood sample can help to detect the presence of antibodies. In addition, a reduced white blood cell count is present.

Prevention: Following your veterinarian’s recommended vaccination schedule, beginning at 6 weeks of age, is the best prevention against Parvo. The Parvo vaccine is typically included in the distemper vaccine. Do not allow your puppy to socialize with other dogs or play in areas frequented by other dogs, for at least two weeks until after he has had his last vaccination.

By Laura Peterson MD,

Even twelve years later, I clearly remember the excitement of having a baby mixed with the uncertainty and worry because my baby was born early. My husband and I were very fortunate that I was in the Air Force, and were stationed at a base with a wonderful NICU.

Transmission: Parvo is transmitted, oftentimes by adult dogs who are infected, but show no signs of the disease. The virus can be brought home to your dog on your shoes, hands, or car tires. In fact, your dog could come down with the disease even if he never leaves your house or backyard. The virus is excreted in the feces of an infected dog; it is not airborne, as many people think.

Parvovirus is specific to canines and cannot be transmitted to humans or other pets.The Parvovirus can remain in the environment for as long as nine months or longer. Once a dog or pup has been exposed to the virus, it can take seven to ten days for symptoms to show or for a Parvo test to come out positive.

What A Moose!

Mat-Su March for Babies

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Parvovirus is a very serious viral disease that affects dogs and is found more frequently in puppies than adults.

Puppies who are between the ages of six weeks to six months are most susceptible.

The virus attacks the intestinal lining of a puppy’s body and kills these cells. Very young pups can actually have the heart muscle infected and can die suddenly.

Treatment: If a dog is left untreated, he will eventually die of dehydration. Intense treatment, consisting of IV or subcutaneous fluids and antibiotics is required. There is no cure for Parvo and only the symptoms can be treated. This treatment includes fluids, regulating electrolyte levels, and sometimes blood transfusions.

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Community

Mar 2013

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

Alaskan author to speak at Radio Free Palmer’s Annual Meeting

..........................

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

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

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

By Lee Henrikson Radio Free Palmer celebrates a year and a half of community radio in the Palmer, Sutton, and Butte areas at its annual meeting on Saturday, March 23, at 2 pm at the Palmer Community Center (the Depot).

Submitting Articles & Calendar:

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

Submissions are not accepted via Facebook.

Advertising:

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

Disclaimer:

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

Elise Patkotak, author of Parallel Logic, will give the keynote address. Local singer/songwriter Diana Z will perform several of her original pieces.

This is an exciting annual meeting for Radio Free Palmer members. We have proved we can be on the air and create local programming. We are now focused on sustainability while continuing to add additional community programming.

Our locally produced shows includes news, music, mushing, technology, and healthy lifestyles – all available at 89.5 FM and on the web. Radio Free Palmer streams both special events and Borough Assembly and School Board meetings through its radiofreepalmer.org website.

Find out how the station has been doing and about our plans for future growth in programming, membership, and volunteers.

Elise Sereni Patkotak, writer and Anchorage Daily News commentator, lived in Barrow, Alaska for 28 years.

While living in Barrow she was a nurse, health director, social worker, columnist, radio show host, public information officer, city

KONR 106.1 Wants You!

By Thomas Higgins

Look for KONR 106.1 LPFM on your radio at home, work and auto!

I was in Wasilla last week and I was picking up KONR Out North Art House Radio in Wasilla. A little weak at times but give it a shot. Even without KONR reception in the Valley, Valley musicians, spoken-worders, poets, storytellers, anything radio usable, are welcome to submit to the KONR audio library and therefore have a platform to give their art to Anchorage.

recreation director and Guardian Ad Litem (GAL), working with troubled kids in the Barrow Court System. She now lives in Anchorage with five parrots, a cockatoo and a very nervous little dog that thinks all the birds are out to get his stuff. ( http:// elisepatkotak.com/index.php?/ site/bio/) Diana Z has been performing for over 15 years. She released her debut album All I Want in October of 2007. Her title song ‘All I Want’ is on the soundtrack of Moon Point, an indie film from Toronto.

www.facebook.com/matsutransit www.facebook.com/matsutransit LIKE US TO RECEIVE UPDATES ON ROUTES, SERVICES AND EVENTS

LIKE US TO RECEIVE UPDATES ON ROUTES, SERVICES AND EVENTS

MARCH IS THE LAST MONTH FOR THIS SEASON’S MARCH IS THE LAST MONTH FOR THIS SEASON’S NORDIC SKI AREA BUS SERVICE NORDIC SKI SERVICE (Government PeakAREA RecreationBUS Area in Hatcher’s Pass)

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LIKEUS USON ONFACEBOOK FACEBOOK LIKE

(Government Peak Recreation Area in Hatcher’s Pass)

Service is scheduled to run through Monday, April 1 Service is scheduled to run through Monday, April 1 (Snow Conditions Permitting) (Snow Conditions Permitting) Service runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays Service runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays FROM PALMER AND WASILLA AND WASILLA GIVE IT AFROM TRYPALMER WHILE THE SNOW LASTS...

MASCOT PROVIDES PUBLIC TRANSIT BUS SERVICES: MASCOTCAN PROVIDES PUBLIC BUSTOSERVICES: WE HELP YOU GET TO TRANSIT WERE YOU NEED GO?

www.matsutransit.com www.matsutransit.com Or give us a call and let’s talk about your transportation needs. (907) 864-5000 CAN WE HELP YOU GET TO WERE YOU NEED TO GO?

Or give us a call and let’s talk about your transportation needs. (907)

Who Let the Girls Out?

By Denise Statz

Jan. 17th Ground Floor Introduction to Alaskan Gardening Jan 24th 42 Reasons Why to Sample MY Soil!

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Chuck Kaucic at 357-4563 X 103

Health Fair

By Denise Statz

Saturday, April 28th, start your day at the Palmer Senior Citizens Center with the community-wide Health Fair from 8 am – 1 pm. The Health Fair, emphasizing - but not limited to - women’s health, is sponsored by the Palmer Senior Center, Mats-Su Health Foundation, Mayor DeLena Johnson and the Downtown Palmer Merchants.

Featuring low cost fasting blood screening, educational booths on a wide array of topics, speakers, fitness and safety information as well as the opportunity to meet with representatives from local community service agencies, this is a great chance to jump-start your spring fitness plan!

From the Health Fair, continue your day enjoying a busy and exciting day in Downtown Palmer as part of the “Who Let the Girls Out” all day, all about the town event.

Mar 2013

Jan. 31st Living with Salmon: Shoreline Stewardship & Restoration Opportunities for Landowners

864-5000

January Schedule for the Winter Conservation Series hosted by the Wasilla Soil and Water Conservation District:

Friday April 26th and Saturday April 27th, Palmer will host the third annual “Who Let the Girls Out?” This is a fabulous, fun filled event for women of all ages, with activities to entertain their escorts as well! Attend special events at more than twenty participating vendor locations.

Details of the jam packed schedule will be posted in print, radio and on the “Who Let the Girls Out V 3.0” Facebook page.

Get ready to get in on everything!

Antiques, fly-casting, art, wine tasting, crafts, music, contests, motorcycles, health and fitness, shopping, food, art – there is something for everyone, including fabulous door prizes!

Plan to attend one of the largest, most exciting community-wide events of the year, sure to put the “Spring” back in your step.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

GIVE IT A TRY WHILE THE SNOW LASTS...

Community Alaska Assistance Dogs

By Jaclyn Johnson, Kennel Manager, Photographer at A.A.D. Alaska Assistance Dogs provides professionally trained service dogs for Alaskans with mobility impairments, hearing and mental health needs, including post-traumatic stress disorder.

Along with providing high quality service dogs to disabled Alaskans in need, AAD also pairs children/teens and service dogs-in-training, allowing the kids to train the dogs and take pride in their accomplishment.

While teachers and therapists have ethical limitations related to touching and hugging, dogs have no such limits.

The non-judgmental nature of the dogs also provides children a safe environment to experiment and selfdiscover their own talents.

Lead by a licensed psychological counselor, Alaska Assistance Dogs has created a win-win program that sets the foundation for student success while

The training program helps children learn to bond, regulate their emotions, develop impulse control, and experience healthy loving, touching, and hugging. Working with the dogs helps the children develop empathy, patience, and self-esteem.

We will meet with the kids once a week, starting each class by introducing the command(s) the kids will teach the dogs that week. Then the children will rotate through stations to work with different dogs, commands, and trainers.

Please join us at our fundraising event, May 3rd at the Palmer Elks Lodge #1842, featuring music by the Carhartt Brothers, silent auctions and raffles. Help Alaska Assistance Dogs “change the world one paw at a time!”

For further information, please email Cris, event coordinator, at Cris4ten@yahoo.com

Do you love to sing? Join the

All vocal ranges.

No auditions necessary.

(Auditions if under 18)

Join us on Thursdays @ 7pm @ Wasilla High School Find us on Facebook: Mat-Su Community Chorus

producing service dogs for Alaskans with disabilities.

This year, AAD is partnering with Alaska Attachment and Bonding Associates to bring our Therapeutic Service Dog Training program to kids and teens with Reactive Attachment Disorder.

Mat-Su

COMMUNITY CHORUS

Meet Trina Contributed by

Angie Lewis with Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue Trina is a Pit Bull / Heeler mix, approximately three years old.

Trina is a very affectionate and friendly dog, who needs a little extra loving because she has recently had puppies, who have all been adopted.

Now she is lonely for companionship. If you think you could be her pal, please give us a call. She is great with other dogs and is house trained.

Visit akdogandpuppyrescue.com for more information and for even more dogs in need of rescue!

Veterans Museum

US intelligence thought there were very few Japanese on Attu (there were about 2,400) and planned a 3-day battle, which stretched to a 19 day campaign to re-take the island.

Only 27 Japanese survived the final banzai charge. When the 35,000 man joint USCanadian Task Force stormed ashore at Kiska in August 1943, they found all Japanese had been withdrawn by ship and submarine. The forces still took casualties from booby traps and friendly fire accidents.

Announces Spring Programs Submitted by Suellyn Novak

The Alaska Veterans Museum at 333W 4th Ave, Suite 227 in the blue Market Place Mall (corner of 4th Ave and D Street) in Anchorage is pleased to announce the following programs:

Mar 2013

Everyone knows the most costly battle of Iwo Jima but few know Attu. Not only did the US soldiers have to battle the Japanese defenders who were well dug in on the heights, but they also fought the terrain, the weather, and their lack of proper clothing, especially boots. The Army insisting on leather boots cost many a soldier frostbite, immersion foot, and ultimately amputation.

April 13 at 7 PM AVM Salutes Vietnam Veterans with a panel discussion, photos and maps. Come here what our brave soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines experienced during a political and an unpopular war with limited objectives. All Services will be represented. The passage of time has somewhat reduced the political upheaval and fall-out of being an Armed Services member during this societal upheaval. Come learn from those who lived the experience! Free light refreshments with your $5 admission.

March 16 at 7 PM Movie Night showing Report from the Aleutians in honor of the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Attu. This World War II battle was the only one fought on North American soil. In May 1943, we retook the Aleutians from the Japanese who had held Attu and Kiska since June 1942.

The Battle of Attu was the second most costly battle of the Pacific War.

Free gourmet popcorn and beverages included in your $3 admission (free movie with museum admission). If permission is granted, we will also feature The Aleut Story about the Attuans taken to Japan for 3 years and the forced Aleut Evacuation to SE Alaska.

or to meet her call Debbie at (907) 244-4582

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

She is just the right size gal to share your home – around 40 pounds.

> For more info

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Community

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2013

Mar

Community

When You Comin’ Back, Red Ryder?

Submitted By Stephanie

Wonchala, UAA Performing & Fine Arts ANCHORAGE - The UAA Department of Theatre and Dance is pleased to present When You Comin’ Back, Red Ryder? by Mark Medoff and directed

by UAA faculty member David Edgecombe.

A drug-dealing misfit terrorizes a small town and hijacks a roadside diner. Every patron of this dilapidated restaurant must confront their own pasts and inadequacies while the situation quickly escalates into a hostage crisis. When You Comin’

Back, Red Ryder? represents a searing conflict between generations and classes. The messages in this Obieaward winning drama continue to be relevant in this age of corporate theft and world terrorism. “It is tough, it is tense, it is tight, and works on a basic gut level… a barometer of social and psychic change in America.” -The New York Times Written by Mark Medoff Directed by David Edgecombe WHEN: April 5 - 21, 2013 Fridays/Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., Sundays at 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: UAA Harper Studio Theatre, Fine Arts 129 TICKETS: $10/$15/$17 at www.

UAAtix.com or www.Centertix.net Discounts available for groups of 12+, call the UAA box office at 786-4849 for more information.

Cash Mob Update March 21st will find CASH MOBBERS gathering at the Eagle Hotel Bar. Folks can begin gathering after work and will find a special Cash Mob Menu available.

Cash Mob has been a huge success the last two months! Thanks to everyone who’s participated!

To follow the goings-on of this social and economic booster group go to Facebook.com, search for CASH MOB Palmer AK.

MatSu Schools Foundation Offering Eight Student Scholarships

Submitted by Linda Conover

Applications can be e-mailed to scholarship@matsuschoolsfoundation. org or printed and mailed to Mat-Su School Foundation, C/O Linda Conover, 7362 W. Parks Hwy, #782, Wasilla, AK 99623. Postmark or time stamp must be no later than April 15, 2013.

Are you a home school student who dreams about having a magical Prom to celebrate your high school years? Your dreams have been answered! You are invited to attend a Modern Masquerade Prom to be held at Kendall Ford on April 19, 2013 from 8-11pm. Modern Masquerade is a combination of modern and old world styles, so a Prom with classical, yet modern twists. Imagine city lights combined with the mystery of Phantom of the Opera to create the perfect evening to celebrate. Guys, feel free to hide behind that mask, but don’t miss this fun and exciting event!

We are excited to announce that R&R Productions will be providing music and lights, and we all know that they will (FAFSA) report (Link to http://www. fafsa.ed.gov/) Demonstrated interest in the healthcare field through an essay 250 words or less in the MSHF Scholarship Application Selection of a healthcare career choice that matches the healthcare workforce needs of providers in the Mat-Su Borough Attestation of tobacco and illicit drug free status and commitment to healthy living.

How to Apply: The application period for 2013 scholarships begins at 4 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 4, 2013. All applications must be submitted online at www. healthymatsu.org/scholarhships after that date. The scholarship application period closes at 4 pm on Monday, March 18, 2012.

Please feel free to contact Olena at 352-7457 or Olena.Ellis@ matsuk12.us for any questions or to purchase your 2013 Prom tickets

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

2013

United States citizenship Mat-Su Borough residency for minimum of one year (current to application) Eligible for an Alaska Permanent Dividend Fund Minimum half-time student status at accredited college, university, or medical training program Cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 for returning awardees only; no minimum GPA for first time applicants; [Note: a GPA criterion only applies to an applicant who has received a scholarship in the past from MSHF. Until the applicant wins an award, the no GPA standard will be used.

Successful completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Air

Liason Mat-Su Central School

Mar

Wasilla, AK— Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) will open its annual scholarship program on Monday, Feb. 4, 2012 at 4 pm. Each year the foundation awards scholarships to residents of the Mat-Su Borough who are pursuing health-related careers. The number of scholarships given each year and the amount of each award varies; it is expected that $250,000 will be awarded in this round of scholarships.

MSHF Scholarship eligibility requirements include the following:

By Olena Ellis, Community

rock the house! Join Mat-Su Central School as we host a Home School Prom, open to all home school students and their guests. You may bring a guest from any Alaskan high school, please just ask them to bring an ID.

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at Mat-Su Central School in Wasilla. Get your tickets early, as there is a limited supply and the price goes up to $50 on April 1st!

Local Students Invited To Apply For Mat-Su Health Foundation Scholarships

Two $1,000 Dr. Curtis D. Menard Memorial Scholarships The two Dr. Curtis D. Menard Memorial Scholarships are designed to encourage individuals who are first-time college students or enrolling in a vocational program,

or students pursuing professional development which leads to a degree or certification.

Deadline for these scholarships is April 15, 2013.

Applications and further submission information are available online at http:// w w w.matsuschoolsfoundation.org/ scholarships.html.

Prom for Homeshool Students? Yes!

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Deadline for these scholarships is April 15, 2013. Applications and more information is available online at http:// w w w.matsuschoolsfoundation.org/ scholarships.html. A MSSF scholarship committee will review application packets and a representative of MSSF will announce awards at each student’s graduation ceremony.

Six $2,000 First Student Scholarships First Student is awarding six $2,000 scholarships to 2013 graduates of the Mat-Su Borough School District.

A minimum of two of these scholarships will be awarded to students receiving special education services and having current IEPs. Deadline for these scholarships is April 15, 2013.

Applications and further submission information are available online at http:// w w w.matsuschoolsfoundation.org/ scholarships.html.

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Community

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Mar 2013

Community New Dances 2013

Submitted by Stephanie Wonchala WHAT: New Dances 2013 WHEN: April 12 – April 21 Friday/Saturday 8:00 p.m.; Sunday 6:00 p.m.

WHERE: UAA Fine Arts Building, Mainstage Theatre Free parking is available TICKETS: $12/$15 at www.

UAAtix.com, or 786-4TIX All seats general admission ANCHORAGE – 50 performers go bounding forth into spring as they showcase diversity in both choreographic styles and ideas in 11 choreographers’ newest works.

Celebrated performer, musician and choreographer Nicholas Young has created “Robert Boyle” for seven members of UAA Dance Ensemble. Young is based in New York and currently in his 9th year as a performer with the off Broadway production of “STOMP” and has worked with numerous tap companies such as Manhattan Tap, Rumba Tap, Hoofin to Hittin with Jared Grimes, and Dorrance Dance. He has also been a featured percussionist with Cyro Baptista’s fusion Brazilian ensemble Beat the Donkey, as well as drummer for Darwin Deez on their local and world tours. “Robert Boyle” is an exploration of movement and music that plays with the ideas of creating and reacting to sound waves and how they might be interpreted by the body. Working as both the instrument and the reaction, an invisible field of waves moves throughout the piece and is captured, thrown, manipulated, and

eventually tamed into a percussive demonstration by the dancers.

Robert Boyle discovered that sound waves must travel in a medium (1660) and this lead to the concept that sound is a pressure change.

Sound waves must travel in a medium. Our medium is movement.

UAA Dance Program faculty Katherine Kramer offers “via Brubeck” a jazz and tap tribute to the late and legendary jazz innovator, Dave Brubeck, whose music pushed cool jazz into challenging time www. uaa.alaska.edu/theatreanddance Facebook.com/UAAarts signatures.

Three music compositions are highlighted, “Unsquare Dance,” “Take Five” and “Bru’s Boogie Woogie,” as dancers interact with film footage featuring iconic dance sequences that span the past 80 years. UAA faculty Brian Jeffery spins his new work, “Falling Together Pushing Apart,” on the members of UAA Dance Ensemble, punctuated by dynamic partnering interactions and sketches of movement that challenges the boundaries of the performance space to the sounds of Apparat and Polmo Polmo.

UAA Department of Theatre and Dance will present “Robert Boyle,” “via Brubreck,” and “Falling Together Pushing Apart” by these three veteran choreographers along with eight other premiers by UAA student and local choreographers as part of New Dances 2013, April 1221 at the UAA Mainstage Theatre in the UAA Fine Arts Building.

Several local choreographers and UAA alumni are among this year’s featured choreographers. Pulse Dance Company director Stephanie Wonchala offers the exuberantly playful “Enter the Heat.” This high-octane, mega-fun, shake what

mama gave ya dance invites you to trek the tropics, ride a pony, take a swim, and have a great time with a dozen dynamic dancers moving to the infectious beats of Baauer.

Valley Vogue Wearable Art

Visual artist and choreographer Ruby Kennell offers an ominous yet mesmerizing multimedia performance work loaded with metaphor and featuring original video projections. Microscopic organisms, daily functions of society, and the outer limits of the cosmos all collide through Kennell’s collaborations with writer Meg Fowler and local musician Evan Phillips.

Connection

Becky Kendall, director of Momentum Dance Collective, draws on imagery of the raven, the trickster, and the gateway between waking and dreaming for “The Closing Door,” with movements brought to life by musician and composer Richard Beltzer, whose melancholy violin opens a world of mysticism and curiosity, as he sweeps through the stage with his live string accompaniment.

Additional work by UAA Dance Program outstanding student choreographers will include Maisie Stewart’s “Cubed Perception,” Teresa Liu’s duet with Christopher Branche “Flight and Other Inspirations,” Creacy Boggess’ “Conflicts of Love,” and Bonnie Moring’s quintet “…by choice.”

Media note: For more information about New Dances 2013 or to arrange interviews with members of the cast and/or choreographers, contact Brian Jeffery at 786-1688 or bjefferyx@yahoo.com.

For other questions about the UAA Department of Theatre and Dance, contact the main department office at 786-1792

Contributed by Mat-Su Women’s

Mat-Su Women’s Connection invites you to their luncheon, Monday, March 18 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Evangelos Restaurant. Join Nan Potts and the models of Valley Arts Alliance Wearable Art in their Runaway Show.

Dala Conner relates a true life adventure in spite of children, physical conditions, and self expectations. $16 Inclusive.

Lunch Reservations & Complimentary Daycare call Janet @ 907-892-8482 on or before April 15.

Reindeer Team Sled Races?

By Daniel N. Russell

Due to the fun and excitement of the running with reindeer event in “Fur Rondy”, I think it would be interesting to have reindeer team sled races in Alaska. They would need to be kept, bred, and trained in cool locations, such as at high elevations or above the Arctic Circle, but this not a problem. They breed and train reindeer to pull and race sleds in Lapland, and Siberia, and other Arctic places. So, it seems to me that we should do this here in Alaska, too. More Alaskan winter sports activity will bring more winter tourists to Alaska, especially to northern locations that need it most. I can envision races from Nome to Barrow, or Deadhorse to Kaktovik, AK. Reindeer are just domesticated caribou, which have a natural endurance to run continuously for hundreds of miles in Arctic migrations. Their splayed hooves are already set up for snow and ice. They usually outrun bears and wolves, and they do not need

The Trouble with Technology

Contributed by Hillary Saffran

The Technological Twilight Saga Bella has a relatively boring life as she is a relatively boring 17 year old. She moves to Forks, Washington with her father, Charlie, who is the proud owner of a very annoying mustache. It never stops raining in Forks, which contributes to the dullness of Bella’s acting.

At school one day she lays eyes on Edward Cullen. She is smitten – Edward and his brothers and sisters are so beautiful! Edward and Bella get past their pretending-to-be-annoyedby-each other-stage, and form a relationship.

She finds out that they are vampires, but she doesn’t care. The truth is not revealed until later chapters that the reason their vampire eyes are red is

because these brand of beings are addicted to YouTube and Facebook.

They never sleep because they have to view every single new music video that comes out, along with every episode of X Factor and Everyone’s on This Planet’s Got Talent. They have to watch every episode of Once Upon a Time, and every music video of Paramore. They never eat either because they are constantly plugged in, which is why their bodies are cold and feel like granite.

Bella’s Native-American friend Jacob Black and his friends are werewolves.

Their eyes are bloodshot also because they have formed a music group called “The Howlers” and they stay up all night making YouTube music videos. They are hoping to get discovered this way by a big music producer much like Justin Bieber was discovered, although they refuse to admit it.

They are so consumed with their activities that they never take any time to shave which is why they look like

werewolves. The series then proceeds with lots of computer animation which makes the vampires look like they drive and run very fast, and the werewolves jump very high.

There is a suspenseful moment when the Volturi enter the scene. (They are the Internet Regulation Committee). The Volturi crashes everyone’s computers in an attempt to take over their lives.

However, much to the Volturi’s surprise, the Cullen clan and werewolves have backup for their hard drives and are victorious over the controlling Volturi, who have a truly biting sense of humor.

Edward and Bella, now married, celebrate their love for each other and have a child named “Renamepod”. Jacob tattoos his love for Renamepod on a new version of the iPad called “The Imprint” and everyone lives happily ever after and makes lots of money.

Mar 2013

www.laughter-is.com

Stay tuned for more excerpts from Hillary’s upcoming book, “Laughing Your Way Through Hell - Tips for Self-Care While Going Through Adversity” coming out in May.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Do any of you “older” folks long for the simplicity of bygone days before 40,756,983 choices presented themselves in the forms of: - Satellite dishes with thousands of TV channels available 24/7 - Movies downloaded 24/7 from all planets for the creation of TV zombie audiences - YouTube channels and the like – everyone’s a star now - Reality shows - The endless amount of applications and gadgets, including phones, tablets and computers that become outdated in a week - A billion websites with information that you cannot live without - Blogs by anyone and everyone - Social media that is a “must” - Five billion passwords to remember - Less time to fathom it all

If you are suffering from technology stress, I’d like to share with you the following...

13

Community

Music

Thank You From Museum The Palmer Museum would like to thank everyone who came out and supported the March Palmer Art Walk! Our little event is growing each month and we hope to see our numbers increase as the months become warmer.

This past Art Walk marked an important step in the Palmer Art Walk as we have changed the way we organize the event and can now say we have 16 Palmer businesses, including the Palmer Museum, that have officially committed to bringing the Art Walk to the valley each month. We would like to express our gratitude to our participants: Arkose Brewery, The Gallery, Eagle Hotel, Cover Ups, NuKreationZ Art and Activity Center, Garden Gate, NonEssentials, Fireside Books, Alaskan Artisans & Crafters, Palmer Deli, Shane Lamb Gallery, Healing Path Therapeutic Massage, Chickadee’s, Rusty’s and the Sustainable Design Group. Without their generous contributions and overall enthusiasm this event would not be possible. In addition, Palmer Public Library has offered their meeting room space to allow local non-profit organizations and community groups to be a stop along the Art Walk. Each month, a different group will use the space based on a first come, first serve reservation basis. Richard Stryken of Bolshio Misha, who owns the Palmer Deli Mall, has agreed to allow artists to set-up in the hallway of the building during each Art Walk. Local artists will be allowed to setup stations that display their work for the public throughout the day. The Museum will be coordinating both venues so all interested groups and artists should contact

the Museum for more information.

April is Literary Month, and as such, the Art Walk will be featured around the world of literature. Fireside Books has a few treats in store for our Art Walkers since they are the sponsors of the Art Walk raffle prize this month. Walkers will be asked to do the Walk so that they can

month between 3:00 – 7:00PM, we invite you to stop by the Palmer Museum to pick up your FREE official Palmer Art Walk map and instructions for that month’s Art Walk. Each month, we ask you to perform a task along the Art Walk to provide proof that you visited all of our stops. If you are successful, you will be entered into the Art Walk raffle which includes the grand prize comprised of gifts donated by one of our official participants.

Along your journey, you will have the opportunity to partake in demonstrations, make unique crafts and meet numerous artists and performers.

If you don’t quite feel up to walking around Palmer, that’s okay.

You can always pick up an Art Walk map and select only the locations and events you would like to visit; however, you will not be eligible for the raffle prize. The Art Walk is FREE to the public and open to all ages.

For more information on the Art Walk, please visit the Palmer Museum web-site or contact the Museum during business hours (Wednesday – Friday, 10:0 0A M- 5:0 0PM, Saturday, 10:00AM – 2:00PM).

UPCYCLE: The Art of Recycling

collect words that they can use to create clever and original sentences that will be judged by Fireside Books to determine the grand prize winner. We will return to using the Art Walk passports as well this month to help Walkers get around town and create their strategies. For those of you new to the Art Walk, the rules are quite simple. Every Second Saturday of the

CALLING ALL ARTISTS

The month of April also brings back the Museum’s exciting exhibit, Upcycle. This year, we hope to acquire a new collection of unique art work comprised out of recyclable materials, both traditional and non-traditional. This exhibit will be featured during Palmer’s annual Who Let

the Girls Out event when the Museum will be hosting a Beer Tasting with Arkose Brewery and a Slow Art Day. The Slow Art Movement began in 2001, when museums conducted research and concluded that most visitors only view a piece of art for about an average of 10 seconds. This limited amount of time prevents the viewer from fully understanding the artist’s intention and from the artist and his/her work from getting the focus they deserve. During the Palmer Museum’s Slow Art Day, we will challenge visitors to spend a total of 30 minutes in the Museum viewing three works of art in the Upcycle exhibit for 10 minutes each. Afterwards, visitors will be asked to discuss their experience with Museum staff and other viewers so that they can better understand the world of art and what it means to be a “viewer.” The exhibit offers artists a unique opportunity to not only display their work but provide the valley community with a new way to experience art. The Museum will be accepting entries for Upcycle up until Saturday, April 13th.

This month the Palmer Museum of History and Art is the place to be and we promise not to disappoint! Be sure to check our web-site at www.palmermuseum.org for more details about the Palmer Art Walk and any of our events.

About PMHA: The Palmer Museum of History and Art is a non-profit museum that serves the community of Palmer in preserving and sharing the history and art of the Palmer region. The museum’s collections contain items that best depict region’s art history, exploration, settlement, agriculture, and trade, cultural and social development.

During the summer, May 1st through September 30th, the museum also serves a Palmer’s Visitor’s Center and is open seven days a week from 9:00AM to 6:00PM.

Jeanne Young: s Fine Artist

l

r

By Gregory Gusse

Sometimes the best ways to describe something is with simile and metaphor. e Artists might be likened to mountain climbers d (or their inversion downhill skiers). Some folks who claim to be mountain climbers are s simply hikers, some even take the tram to the top of some slight hill and claim some glory of being there. That’s OK, we all need to feel achievement in our lives, but it really doesn’t suit the term mountain climber... or artist.

d Some too are happy to claim a victory in r following the same old path laid down years ago by the adventurous and free thinkers of that time. Those folks as artists paint pretty pictures, but like the climbers following y another’s path; the meaning belonged to e someone else from another time and world.

The best learn the trails and treks of the past and seek to find their own way to the top. They must make their own ascent free of someone else’s bolts and carabineers dangling from the r rocks. They climb for the rarified air that fills their souls rather than their lungs.

I think of Jeanne Young like a mountain climber searching out her own route to the top of Denali. And, of all Alaskan artists she has the best chance of summitting her own route.

Her partner in many projects, Pat Garley himself a renowned artist, says “Jeanne is the e hardest working, most serious artist I have ever met. She researches her work and draws from the past but produces her own art.”

,

Meaning and emotion are paramount to what she does. But she is no slouch on technique and the science of painting. Her studies go back to childhood in a continuous line a of mentorship and workshops, with some n college art study as well.

I have been a watcher and fan of Jeanne’s work for a number of years. My best compliment is

she has been worth my while to be rough on. I haven’t often been nice to her. She first caught my attention with a piece at the Alaska State Fair. It was an extremely well executed piece with an unusual and compelling emotion and sure potential. My problem was the genre of the piece photo-realism interested me 30 years ago. That year the piece by Kimberly Stubbs-Bustillos took my heart but Kimberly had reached her apex and Jeanne was just half-way up her mountain.

Jeanne did make the breakthrough and completed her work in that genre with her “Snow City Lovers” and an incredible study in flat light “4th Avenue Theatre”. Technically 4th Avenue is very interesting and I like the composition and color as well. With all her works emotion and feeling draw you in.

By the time of her piece “Vagabond Blues” you could see her struggling to “loosen up” which she did somewhat effectively at least enough that the work would be considered representational. Throughout 2009 and 2010 Jeanne seemed to split her approach. She produced several series of works one I call boat butts that began as representational works and later took on an impressionistic feel. The other started as seashore paintings of her children in a representational style and became by “Dance Class” a wild and wonderful and colorful impressionistic study of tiny dancers.

Her work “Telephone” (which hangs at the Aurora Gallery and is priced at 1/10 its value) is her current place in this genre. It isn’t a perfect piece. The weight and intensity of the background competes with the figures and motion but its pretty darn good...frankly I think its on the way to a master piece.

I thought I nearly lost her or at least interest in her. Wooed by others, her work deteriorated into the muddy mess some folks espouse.

I was exceedingly disappointed and would frequently tell her so. Where were the people, where was the emotion? Times were difficult for her and her family and it showed in her art.

Continues on page 17

Matt Wiggins’ Comedy at Mat-Su Resort

Seriously, this is not for your kids.

It’s comedy, and it’s funny, but unless you want to be in trouble with the daycare, or the principle’s office, don’t bring your youngsters.

Matt Wiggins is a local comedian who makes the uncomfortable funny.

He says the things everyone thinks, but don’t dare say - raunchy comedy in the vein of Eddie Murphy (preDonkey Eddie Murphy, so please don’t bring your kids!).

What started as a whim has turned into a professional endeavor, when 2 ½ years ago Matt Wiggins was urged by friends to give comedy a go.

He accepted the challenge, and the

Live Music for the Community The Salvation Army Corps Community Center in Palmer is opening its ears and doors for live music every Saturday night as an outreach for teens and adults who don’t fit the bar scene. Doors open at 8:30pm, with bands playing from 9:00.

Entry is by donation with snack food available for purchase. Genres vary by the band; the criterion is familyfriendly content. The venue is allages, safe, and drug- and alcoholfree.

The event kicked off two weeks ago with high school band Batterdown playing loud, vintage rock for an

audience loved him!

At the further urging of friends, he decided to put together a show here in the Mat-Su, along with his fellow funny-man, Dave Burroughs. The two will do their stand-up routines at The Mat-Su Resort - a perfect adult venue for this type of show! Did I mention that this show is for grownups?!

Wiggins has performed in Anchorage, Seattle, and Minneapolis, and soon in Wasilla!

Friday March 29 Doors open at 8 Show at 9 Mat-Su Resort 21+ And it’s only $10

audience of 50 teens and adults.

Last week followed with local artist Robin Howard playing his set and entertaining the audience with an improvised encore that left everyone amazed and impressed. Batterdown is scheduled again on March 23rd along with Wasilla-local Marching Band Solo.

Musicians are always wanted!

Donations for the night are split with the Salvation Army and the band.

Individuals are compensated for their talent and hard work, and the remainder helps support Salvation Army social service programs.

Bring out your family, friends and neighbors for a fun night together!

The Salvation Army is located at 209 W Evergreen St, Palmer, 99645. Call 745-7079 for more information on the week’s music.

16

Music

Emma Hill

Releases New CD!

Mar 2013

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Submitted by Evan Phillips Emma Hill will perform at Vagabond Blues in Palmer on Sunday, March 31: $15 General Admission, $10 for students, senior, military 6:30 pm Vagabond Blues, Palmer Opening act: Gerygone & Twig In Spin Magazine’s recent feature on the growing Alaskan music scene, the writer poses the question, “Has the Internet really made geography a moot point?” Alaskan-born singer/songwriter Emma Hill answers that question with a resounding no. In fact, the world traveler Hill (whose recent jaunts have included a 6-week tour in Europe and several months in Costa Rica) decided to advance her music career by moving back to Alaska from her adopted home in Portland.

In an age where kids are generally expected to pick up roots and move to New York City, Nashville, or some other recognized music mecca to “make it”, Emma Hill Stand out. She’s made quite a name for herself in Alaska, touring incessantly, playing not only places folks from the lower 48 can pick out on a map (Juneau, Anchorage), but villages like Sleetmute, McGrath, and Kodiak - rural places where people don’t often go to see touring bands.

Emma Hill, along with her musical partner Bryan Daste (in a recent cover story, The Anchorage Press called him “the David Rawlings to Emma Hill’s Gillian Welch”), will be bringing their brand of loping, intimate Americana with and indie edge to venues across Alaska and the rest of the US in support of their new album, The Black and Wretched Blue.

Mastered by Jeff Lipton at Peerless (known for his work with indie icons like Bon Iver and Andrew Bird), The Black and Wretched Blue is Emma Hill’s fourth album and the gorgeous follow up to the Alaskan Dear, I’m Comin’ Home EP. Populated by confessional songs of heartbreak and love and loss, the album showcases Hill’s penchant for homey alt-folk and countrified sounds, this time paired with almost New-Orleansstyle-horns. With a honeyed voice and confident delivery, Emma Hill conjures She & Him, Whiskeytown, and a certain throwback Linda Rondstadt vibe.

Hill and Daste will spend the better part of the spring and summer of 2013 on tour in Alaska and the continental US, hitting up performance spaces of all kinds, including their signature experience - the house concert. The duo thrives on the intimate setting and easy camaraderie of the house show and has graced the living rooms and back porches of Europe and the US. For more information visit www.emmahillmusic.com

Johnny B’s Rhythm of the North

Submitted by Emily La Porte, Denali Arts Council Johnny B’s Rhythm of the North is a performance of story and song that includes original piano music, high definition videos of Alaska and stories of travel in the Far North. The solo performance is smart, entertaining, moving, and at times hilarious. Johnny B’s 30+ years of living and performing throughout the Last Frontier is evident as he weaves his stories, heartfelt compositions, and some of the hottest boogie-woogie you’ll ever hear - A fun evening for the whole family.

Samples of Johnny B’s music can be heard at: www.johnnyb88.com Denali Arts Council www.denaliartscouncil.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/denali.artscouncil

Saturday, March 23rd at 7:30, doors open at 7 $5 12 and under / $15 DAC member / $18 general admission Tickets available online or at the door.

Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, D Street in downtown Talkeetna, look for the big red building behind West Rib Pub. Interested in coming from out of town?

Refer to the Talkeetna Chamber of Commerce website for lodging, meals and event listings http://www. talkeetnachamber.org/welcome About Denali Arts Council Denali Arts Council is a non-profit, 501(c)3 community arts organization serving the Northern Susitna Valley of Alaska. It owns and manages The Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, a multipurpose venue in Talkeetna, Alaska. Denali Arts Council operates eight programs: Denali Drama, Hangar Door Cinema, Green Light Circus, Focus on Kids, Susitna Muse, Talkeetna Artists Guild, Susitna Muse and Local Motion. www.denaliartscouncil.org

> Emma Hills new album, ‘The Black and Wretched Blue’ > Johnny B, Composer and Performer

Gail Niebrugge

presents...

http://niebruggestudio.com/

12-7PM

2nd Saturday - During the Art Walk

1150 S Colony Way, Palmer

Fine Artist Continued...

Da Vinci said he was a painter who sometimes sculpted and Michelangelo said he was a sculptor who sometimes painted. Jeanne may have found her way through sculpture to become the painter she is meant to be. She has been working with Pat Garley and the 1% for Art grants producing wonderful bronze sculpture. But to me what is of most importance is she is learning how to apply the dimensionalism she feels with her hands in her sculpture to her painting. This simple realization will catapult her works into a whole new realm of visual appeal.

> “4th Avenue Theater” by Jeanne Young

Mar 2013

In disclosure, I own two small pieces of Jeanne’s. One is just a very simple still life and the other, that she refers to as her transitional piece to serious art, a plein air that reminds me of “On The Beach 1873” by Edouard Manet (I don’t know why, and, yes I did say “plein air”).

Regardless, this piece is nearly perfect in all regards, composition, color, light, but mostly in communicating the emotion and feeling of that moment in time for all time. It is the work called “The Artist.” Pictured Right >>

Most times I wouldn’t bring up the fact that somebody is a mother. This time Jeanne and her children are a combined force. Her children are not just subjects in her work but I think real contributors as well. They are underfoot in her studio where she home schools them and conversely I think they teach her a great deal at the same time. They are with her at openings and gallery shows. They are just part of her and she is her art.

Wonderful.

Jeanne might not be the top fine artist in Alaska, yet, but, she has that potential.

In my opinion she still has two major hurdles to cross. She still hasn’t found her signature style and she still hasn’t her signature pallett. Of course, for the past 20 years or so she has been in that wonderful world of learning from and replicating the past and she has excelled

at that. I think in the very near future she will have that vision of who it is she is as an artist. In writing we call this “the fist”, a combination of voice and style that is instantly recognizable. If Jeanne succeeds in finding her self, her particular soul in her art, she will be unstoppable in her ascent. Why? Because she already has achieved the most difficult component of fine art, emotion. Jeanne communicates heart with her work. Real and tangible feeling.

745-1420

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

New Originals And Giclées

17

The Gallery

18

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Mar 2013

Make Your Own Pottery! > Workshops & Classes: Art, Pottery, Wheel Throwing, Handbuilding & More > Stop by anytime to glaze your own pottery!

Hours: Tues-Wed: 5-8pm Thurs: 12-8pm Fri: 12-6pm and Sat 10-6

Art Gallery Original local Mat-Su Artists Oil paintings, acrylics, bead work, pottery, fiber arts & more! Creativity welcome!

Call for art classes & workshops.

ART & CREATIVITY CENTER

Music

Marian Call Performs

for Benefit of Local Greg Gusse

By Josh Fryfogle When I went to the meeting to plan Greg’s fundraiser, I knew I was in good company.

The people that came together for this effort were all involved and invested people. It was suggested that I plan some music for the benefit dinner, slated for Saturday, March 23rd. They said, ‘What would Greg like?’, and ‘It has to be something Greg would want to listen to…’

I couldn’t help but remember his enthusiasm for seeing Marian Call at a concert she and I did together in December of 2011, where Marian was such a hit with the crowd. Several times since, he has commented about his admiration for Marian Call and her music.

But, there was a small problem: Marian Call had since relocated her home base to Juneau, so what to do…

I agreed to take on the task, but told the other people on the planning committee about the complication, still hopeful this would work. The energy of this gathering of Greg’s loving

735 S Bailey Street, Palmer 746-2787

and charitable friends was positively infectious; I couldn’t help but believe it would all come together.

Walking around downtown Palmer, I decided to visit my local bookshop, Fireside, and see what I might find.

Mary Ann Cockle was there, being the best bookseller possible, and I mentioned that I had contacted Marian Call via email about the possible performance. Mary Ann had actually hosted Marian Call in several house concerts at her home, (including the one Greg attended) and she was willing to solicit Marian’s participation as well. Not only that, Mary Ann offered to exchange her airline miles to get Marian here! Things were looking up!

A few days passed and I got the call from Marian Call, and she shared that hopeful sound in her voice. Success was imminent! She agreed to try to juggle her tour schedule a bit, putting Seattle on hold for the benefit of a fan, an excellent man, Greg Gusse. Several phone calls and emails later and she was on her way!

Later I discovered that not only had I been successful, but the rest of the group had banded together to call on one of the valley’s favored chefs, Marian Romano, who swiftly agreed to put her talents to work preparing an

Continues on page 27

Neil’s Lock & Safe

Local Indie-Folk band Gerygone & Twig’s Debut Album Release Show!

Contributed by Grace Kari

> You can find out more about this pivotal shindig at facebook.com/birdandstick, and for a limited time there is a free download of a single from Gerygone & Twig’s album available at Noisetrade.

Just search for Gerygone & Twig or go to noisetrade.com/ birdandstick.

the Dogs February 22 - March 29

March 13, 2013 Learn about behavior training, Nose Work and Treibball from The Better Companion Dog Training Facility

March 20, 2013 Learn about the History of Dog Mushing in Alaska

March 27, 2013 Learn Tools and Terminology used for Dog Mushing

Dorothy G. Page Museum • 323 N Main Street, Wasilla 907.373.9071 www.cityofwasilla.com/museum

Read our digital online edition or submit content anytime: visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

>>>

Mar 2013

What better way to celebrate the birthing of a shiny new album than

There will be free cake, coffee, and carrots for all, and if you buy a physical copy of the Slee-Py at the cd release show, you’ll get a dollar off of the original price!

to

5:00 - 7:00 pm

The Slee-Py is a compilation of 13 of Gerygone& Twig’s root shakingtunes, jingles, and jams, accompanied by the time signature changing, hand clapping, harmonicomelodizing, and banjo twangling that they are characterized by.

On Friday April 5th from 6-8p.m., come enjoy a free show in the downstairs expanse of First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla, featuring Marching Band Solo, the slam poetry of Ian Hendren, Dyllan Adams, and others, and of course Gerygone & Twig.

Going

Wednesday Nights at the Museum

You may have heard whispers about a few ‘round-the-bend young musicians getting outlandish ideas like ‘record your own album’ and ‘host your own kickstarter project’ and ‘eat oreos for breakfast and also cake’. As it turns out, these whisperings that have been itching your ears have all come to culmination in the form of a successfully completed, homegrown test-flown hand-sewn cerebrum-blown debut album entitled the Slee-Py.

by throwing a huge festive party/ musical show/theatrical fete/poetic representation/coffee soiree? And as it turns out, you’re invited, along with your fetching significant other, your twenty-something mother, your dude-ly-est bro and your best friend!

The Dorothy G. Page Museum and the Valley Arts Alliance Present

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

You’re Invited to

19

Music

20

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Mar 2013

Literature

Wham, Bam! It’s A Poetry Slam!

What else is there to know?

There is a $5.00 entry fee for each contestant. The first 20 applicants will be notified of their acceptance into this Poetry Slam, and any remaining applications (and entry fees) will be returned. So get your application in early!

By Carmen Summerfield and Nan Potts

April is National Literary Month! In honor of this, the Valley Arts Alliance is sponsoring a Poetry Slam at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry, 3800 Museum Drive in Wasilla, on Saturday, April 27, from 7 to 9pm.

What is a Valley Arts Alliance Poetry Slam? Our Poetry Slam is a competitive event in which poets perform their work and are judged. It will be is a fast-paced, fun-filled, evening for both the audience and the budding poets.

roadhouse bakery ● restaurant ● rooms

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

Live Acoustic Music Every Second Saturday, 5-7pm

On Main Street ● 733-1351

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

For our Poetry Slam, we are inviting Junior High School and High School students (12 to 17 years of age), in public, private or home-school programs.

The Valley Arts Alliance sponsored its first poetry slam at the Palmer Library in 2011 to an excited gaggle of homeschooled students who pronounced it a smashing success! This year we are holding it at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry, a fun venue for poets and history buffs alike!

The RULES for this Poetry Slam: 1) Each contestant will present a total of three poems—a maximum of two pieces may have been previously published, but at least one poem must be an original poem by the contestant. However, all three pieces of poetry may be original if so desired.

2) There will be three rounds in this event, and in each round each contestant will have 3 minutes to read one poem.

3) Contestants are not allowed to use props, costumes or musical instruments.

4) Contestants will be judged on their performance and content. Those poems not authored by the contestant will be judged on the contestant’s performance and selection.

5) Scores will be given by three judges (scoring one to 10, making the highest possible score per round, 30 points).

The contestant with the highest score at the end of the third round will be declared the winner, and have their original composition published in Make-A-Scene Magazine. Awards will be given to the top three contestants.

To apply, go to ValleyArtsAlliance.com, download and complete the registration form, and return it (along with the entry fee of $5 made payable to the Valley Arts Alliance) to The Valley Arts Alliance, P.O Box 2369, Palmer, AK 99645.

The Valley Arts Alliance reserves the right to reject applications with poetry inappropriate for this event. Application must be received by Monday, April 15, 2013. Email any questions to Carmen@ ValleyArtsAlliance.com.

Do you think you have it in you? Come release your inner poet and join the fun at the Valley Arts Alliance Poetry Slam at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry in Wasilla, on Saturday, April 27, from 7 to 9pm.

Admission is free! Audience members are encouraged to cheer for their favorite contestant (without disrupting the reading), so bring your family and friends! We look forward to seeing (and hearing) you there!

21

Literature

Dana Stabenow Returns to Palmer

One hundred years of bad blood between the villages of Kushtaka and Kuskulana come to a boil when the body of a young Kushtaka ne'er-dowell is found wedged in a fish wheel.

For more information, call Fireside Books at 745-2665

Heart Warming Fundraiser

By Patty Mason

> Dana Stabenow will return to Fireside Books March 22 at 5 PM to celebrate the release of her 20th Kate Shugak novel, "Bad Blood."

> The raffle tickets benefit Greg Gusse

Through April 15th 2013 Nonessentials will display Nancy Rowland’s Quilt and sell raffle tickets at $100.00 a piece. The raffle funds will benefit Greg Gusse.

Thanks to Nancy Rowland!

Nancy enters local, national & international competitions, and has won many awards for her quilting.

> Tulip by Nancy Rowland A Sample of her handiwork

Mar 2013

She attends classes & conferences to improve her professional skills. She is quick to share with others through lending advice, teaching classes, making Quilts of Valor for servicemen & women touched by war, & by volunteering her services to the Valley Quilters Guild.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Bad Blood Sergeant Jim Chopin's prime suspect is a Kuskulana man who is already in trouble in both villages for falling in love across the river. But when the suspect disappears, members of both tribes refuse to speak to Jim. When a second murder that looks suspiciously like payback occurs, Jim has no choice but to call in Kate Shugak for help. This time, though, her Park relationships may not be enough to sort out the truth hidden in the tales of tragedy and revenge.

22 Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com Mar 2013

Music

The Native Jazz Quartet

teaching workshop at the Sitka Fine Arts Camp, July 15-20, 2013. SFAC received the 2007 Coming Up Taller Award, which is given to the top 10 summer arts camps in North America by the White House.

By Christian Fabian

The Native Jazz Quartet, led by Alaskan Native Ed Littlefield (drums) and European Native Christian Fabian (bass), will launch its second tour in the Pacific Northwest this spring.

The tour will feature the Quartet’s first CD release as a group: NJQ: Stories.

The album will be on New York City’s legendary CAP Records label. Also featured in the band is Jason Marsalis, of the famous Marsalis jazz family, on vibraphone, and Filipino Native Reuel Lubag on piano. All four band members have created new music for the album.

Sitkans can look forward to their city becoming the Jazz Mecca of Alaska with the addition of this unique new workshop, a great success in its first year in 2012. Say bandleaders Littlefield and Fabian: The vision of the Quartet is to integrate native/folk melodies with traditional Jazz to produce brand new works of native jazz fusion. This new work will be ongoing, continuing in a weeklong

The possibility of creating entirely new forms from this Native-Jazz fusion is tremendously exciting. We’re really looking forward to seeing what will happen on this Tour.

www.cityofwasilla.com 357-9100

Do you truly want to get the most out of your advertising dollars at a genuinely reasonable cost?

If so, consider the Menard Sports Center to display your business or group advertising. The Menard Sports Center is visited by hundreds of thousands of patrons every year. These include local and state-wide sporting events, conventions, fund raisers, consistent use of the ice arena, parents of Turf for Tots, a walking-running track, and steady use of the three meeting rooms.

Your signs will be displayed year-round and will not only advertise, but show the community your support for a tremendous facility. A visual tour is available on the City of Wasilla web site. Choose departments, choose the Menard Sports Center, and click on the virtual tour.

Welcome to our new advertisers: Alaska Waste and Denali Orthopedic Surgery.

And thank you for our renewal customers: C&C Auto Care, MTA, Kendall Auto Group, Special Events Alaska, and Dave Tuttle Insurance. These and other up-coming renewals are greatly appreciated. See our price list on this ad...

The Band performs: 4/7/13: Ketchikan Tribal House, Ketchikan, AK (Quartet), 7:00pm 4/8/13: Juneau Arts and Cultural Center, Juneau, AK (Quartet), 7:00pm 4/9/13: Taproot, Anchorage, AK (Quartet), 7:00pm 4/10-12/13: University of Alaska Fairbanks Jazz Festival, Fairbanks, AK (Quartet) 6/15/13: TBA, Sitka, AK Quartet (opening concert: Native Jazz Workshop)

www.nativejazzquartet.com www.nativejazzworkshop.com or send email to: native_jazz@hotmail.com

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3’ X 8’ SIGN - $500.00 ADDITIONAL SIGNS: $500.00 THREE YEARS PRE-PAID: $1300.00 EACH SIGN: SAVE $200.00 ICE ARENA DASHER BOARD: $1000.00 ADDITIONAL DASHER BOARDS: $1000.00 EACH THREE-YEARS PRE-PAID: $2800.00 EACH : SAVE 200.00 MEETING ROOM SPONSORSHIP: $750.00 ADDITIONAL ROOM SPONSORSHIP: $750.00 THREE-YEAR PRE-PAID: $2050.00 EACH ROOM SAVE $200

MAJOR SPONSORSHIP OF THE ICE ARENA IS NEGOTIABLE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP OF THE BUILDING IS NEGOTIABLE THE CURTIS D. MENARD MEMORIAL SPORTS CENTER IS VISITED BY HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF PATRONS EACH YEAR. YOUR ADVERTISEMENT WILL BE SEEN

BY PEOPLE FROM THE LOCAL AREA AS WELL AS INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS FROM ALL OVER THE STATE.

Community

Comedian Mike Birbiglia to Perform at UAA

Submitted By Zac Clark, UAA ANCHORAGE, AK – The UAA Concert Board is proud to present comedian Mike Birbiglia, Friday April 19, 2013, 7:30 PM at the Williamson Auditorium.

Over the past 12 years, Birbiglia developed a unique story-telling style in the world of standup comedy. Time Magazine calls him “master of the personal, embarrassing tale” and the New York Times describes him as a “supremely enjoyable monologuist.”

The Associated Press lauds his style as “both laugh-out-loud funny and earnestly reflective.” Birbiglia starred in three Comedy Central specials and appeared on more than 40 network talk shows, including David Letterman, Jimmy Kimmel, Carson

Daly, Conan O’Brien, Craig Ferguson, and Jimmy Fallon. His 2007 comedy album, My Secret Public Journal, was included in “The Best Comedy Albums of the Decade” by both The Onion and USA Today.

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YOUR GIGS

RUN AWAY GET ROLLING GIGS FROM MTA.

In 2011, Birbiglia directed and starred in the feature film Sleepwalk With Me, a largely autobiographical tale about a struggling comedian with sleepwalking disorder. The movie appeared in theatres nationwide in the fall of 2012 to wide acclaim.

Tickets are $10 advance/$15 door for UAA students and $25 advance/$30 door for general public.

Tickets become available Friday March 22, 2013 at www.uaatix.com and the UAA Student Union Info Desk. Only UAA students can use UAA student tickets. There is a limit of two UAA student tickets at time of purchase. Current UAA student ID must be presented at time of purchase and doors.

> The UAA Concert Board is proud to present comedian Mike Birbiglia, Friday April 19, 2013, 7:30pm at the Williamson Auditorium.

With qualified internet packages, your unused data rolls over every month allowing you to get the most out of your plan. Sign up for internet and get Rolling Gigs today. Only available at MTA. VISIT US: Eagle River, Palmer-Wasilla Hwy, Palmer and Wasilla 694.3211 or 745.3211 mtasolutions.com

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Mar 2013

PSYCHOACOUSTICS Psychoacoustics: Psychoacoustics is the scientific study of sound perception.

We are pleased to announce that we are the first in the state to design and build hi-def amplifier/speaker combinations for you home or business.

The beauty of psychoacoustics is that in most cases we can disassemble and utilize your existing hi-fi components, saving you thousands!

To find out more, contact Glen at Fryfogle’s Psychoacoustics

373-2669

The Republican Party Needs a Renewal

By Daniel Hamm

All political parties drift and evolve over time. The Alaska Republican Party is no different and has been in a values drift over the past few years along with the rest of the nation. It’s time for a renewal.

The current economic malaise plaguing the U.S. economy like sleeping sickness is very similar to the malaise we experienced in the 1970s.

The recession back then, like today, clung on tenaciously and confounded every effort by the most eminent government tinkerers to free us from it’ grip. When additional laws and regulations failed to work we fired up the printing press and flooded the economy with money to try to jump start the economy. This resulted in wild inflation but actually had the opposite effect on the economy- the

The error in political thinking both then and now is that an economy can be centrally managed like a machine if you just regulate it well enough and control its inputs and outputs.

This ignores the human factor of the equation- the spirit of an economy.

At different times people are driven either by fears, hopes, or dreams.

They can be optimistic about the future and have the courage to risk their precious capital on a new business expansion. Or conversely, they can feel pessimistic about the future that can cause them to avoid unnecessary risk, sit on their hands, and try to ride the storm out. The historical lesson that central planners never seem to learn is that the weight of excessive government crushes the spirit of an economy and no amount of government tinkering will force it back into prosperity. The human

element of the equation is the missing link that the Republican Party of the 1970s forgot and today’s Republican Party has largely forgotten.

Reagan was a student of the founding fathers and how they created the framework for two centuries of the most spectacular economic growth the world has ever seen. Our founding fathers didn’t legislate or regulate the American Dream- they merely released it from centuries of royal and bureaucratic regulation. They created the framework whereby Americans could succeed by the sweat of their own brows and live the life of their own dreams. It didn’t guarantee success, but provided more opportunity for economic greatness than arguably all the history of humankind that preceded it.

Reagan realized that Americans were too heavily burdened by excessive government and therefore reduced taxes, regulation, and stopped inflation at the money printing press.

Entrepreneurs now had less weight of government on their shoulders and weren’t robbed by double digit inflation.

Reagan then stoked the spirit of the economy by promising a new morning in America. He realized that the American Dream didn’t exist in an institution, a factory, or a government. It burned in the heart of every American and just waited to be

released from the crushing weight of government.

How well did his plan work? Between 1983 and 1989 the economy grew by a staggering 31% in real terms and created 14 million new jobs in what Europe at the time called the “American Miracle.” The European economy stagnated during the same time period as they tinkered with their economy with higher taxes, more regulation, and government health care.

The Republican Party needs to become the party of the free individual once again. We need to realign ourselves with the founding father’s vision that recognized that excessive government isn’t the solution to mankind’s problems but the cause of them. The dream that is America is the freedom and responsibility of the individual creating a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Our founders fervently believed that by returning freedom back to the individual they could begin the world over again and as you know they did just that. Today the black cloud of global socialism is descending everywhere across America and is creating an internal identity crisis in the Republican Party. It’s time to pick up the torch of liberty and use it to illuminate our path to the future.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Renewals in political parties occur from time to time. One example is when Ronald Reagan steered the Republican Party back toward its roots back in the 1980’s after nearly two decades of spectacular government growth perpetuated by both parties.

economy shrank or stagnated while prices soared under a previously thought impossible economic condition called stagflation. Today were are doing much the same thing by trying to regulate virtually every sector of our economy and are printing money to the tune of $85 billion per month. The difference today is that we are using printed money to buy government bonds to try to keep interest rates low. Last quarter the economy shrank. The German philosopher Hegel once said, “We learn from history that we learn nothing from history.”

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Jan 2013

Community

Alaska State Legislature Bill “HB 43”

By Theresa Nangle Obermeyer, Ph.D.

Because Alaska geographic location is isolated from the rest of the U.S., we need medical and law professionals who reside in Alaska, can be colleagues for the rest of their lives, and be accountable to the public for our health care and legal needs. This is why I support current HB43 “An act authorizing the establishment of institutes of medicine and law at the University of Alaska” sponsored by Representatives Kawasaki, Josephson, Tuck, and Kerttula.

First, what about a medical school in Alaska? It is in our best interest to have excellent medical education in Alaska.

Representative Keller and Senator Olson are both members, Alaska Health Care Commission. Please read the Annual Report at http://dhss.alaska.gov/ahcc/ Pages/Reports/2012commissionreport. aspx.

Also, please type on “google” for Milliman Report “Drivers of Health Care Costs in Alaska and Comparison States” to get a 40 page report dated 11/29/11 about the comparative costs of health care in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, and North Dakota which is enlightening about the higher cost of health care in Alaska.

Representative Hughes has a very good background in this area as her career had been at Alaska Primary Care Association before she ascended to

Alaska State House of Representatives 5/1/12.

The indigenous people of Alaska believe so strongly in good health and wellness as we all do. Alaska Native Medical Center is a place where Alaska Native people can be treated from all over Alaska. South Central Foundation has been very successful in creating access to healthcare as has the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium. The new Anchorage Neighborhood Health Clinic is a world-class health facility serving vulnerable populations from all over Alaska. UAA Health Allied Building opening has allowed expansion of health related majors. Please check http:// w w w.uaa.alaska.edu/alliedhealth/ academics/index.cfm. Alaska medical school applicants would draw from all of these programs. We have unique health issues in Alaska and there will be increased medical research if Alaska starts a medical school.

The acronym, WWAMI, stands for Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho or five states that have one medical school at University of Washington.

Currently, Alaska has 20 places for students to get into medical school at University of Washington by taking their first two years of courses locally at the UAA Health Allied Building. This is a good starting point but we need many more health professionals. Because of the leadership of Harold Johnston, M.D., Alaska has a three year with 36 Primary Care Residents at Providence Family Medicine Center. A high percentage of these Residents have remained in Alaska and gone to many Bush areas to practice. We need more medical residency programs locally.

Second, what about a law school here in Alaska? Wasilla Legislator Wes Keller is Chair, Alaska House Judiciary Committee, and Senator Dyson is on the Alaska Senate Judiciary Committee.

Talk to Representative Keller and Senator Dyson about whether we need a law school in Alaska. There is room for many lawyers in Alaska with all of our legal issues. As Alaska population has doubled, the number of Alaska lawyers has not kept pace with our population growth. There are about 2,500 In-State Alaska attorneys and 601 Active Out of State attorneys for a total of 3,100 Alaska attorneys per Todd Communications Alaska Directory of Attorneys Page 2 Fall, 2012. Therefore, 24% of the Alaska attorneys are Alaska Active Out of State. This is the highest number of active out of state in the U.S. Why are 601 attorney Alaska Active Out of State, most of whom have never landed on our soil? The answer is all of those out of state attorneys are making money off Alaska. Let’s let all of those Alaska Active Out of State move to Alaska and help our state develop.

full four-year term. In the time that Alaska has had 24 Attorneys General, Iowa has had six Attorneys General.

The current Iowa Attorney General has served in that capacity for more than twenty years. Mr. Havelock wrote that elected Attorneys General tend to seek other offices. Is there anything wrong with someone who believes he/she has done a good job seeking higher office?

Dr. Talis Colberg, Alaska attorney since 1984, Ph.D., Alaska Attorney General 2006-2008, and current Director, MatSu College, wrote a column in Alaska Bar Rag “Election of an Attorney General” published 12/12 stating that our then 53 year old state has had 24 appointed Alaska Attorneys General.

Mr. John Havelock, Alaska Attorney General 1970-1973, had written a column in the 9/12 Alaska Bar Rag “The Case for an Inspector General” based on his aversion to the election of an attorney general. Mr. Havelock wrote the idea of an elected attorney general is associated with “notorious embarrassment elsewhere in the nation” and the requiring a governor to hire his/her own counsel would be a “model of inefficiency.” Dr. Colberg disagrees.

In the 43 states that have elected Attorneys General overwhelmingly they serve out their entire four-year terms if not several terms in office.

Alaska has a half-century record that shows the appointed Attorneys General usually do not last long enough to be effective which is not a efficient system of government. Dr. Colberg concludes:

Forty-three states elect their attorneys general so these states have far more stability in their department of law then we have according to Dr. Colberg.

There is a one in ten chance that our Alaska Attorney General will finish a

An Attorney General who only stays on the job for less than two years is essentially just learning how to be effective when he/she leaves the position. This means that the long serving Assistant Alaska Attorneys General run the office. Dr. Colberg believes that an elected Alaska Attorney General might be disruptive force to the long serving career employees and might be more “political” but this might be healthy.

“. . .It is a mistake to make the chief law enforcement office of the state an at will employee of the governor. An Inspector General would not solve the Attorney General turnover problem and more likely add to the inefficiency of the office. Alaska would be better off with an elected Attorney General.”

Please ask your Alaska Legislators so co-sponsor HB43.

There could be nothing better than a medical school and a law school in Alaska. Let’s make certain HB43 passes in the 28th Alaska Legislature.

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Marian Call Continued...

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> All photos by Greg Gusse

The Perfect Meeting Space— Scrapbooking & Quilting Clubs Business Meetings, Parties and More

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Big Lake’s Newest

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excellent meal designed to satisfy, while Marian Call holds you captive with her lovely, quirky performance.

Mar 2013

The excitement for this event is great and growing, and I hope you will all join us for this evening of good vibes, great music, and gregarious friendship!

Lakeshore Entertaining & Event Management (907) 230-0935 lakeshoreentertaining@alaska.net lakeshoreentertaining.com

The serendipity of it all! Marian Call, Mary Ann Cockle, and Marian Romano… I don’t know if it means anything, but it’s so nice when everything just works. That’s the kind of event this will be, with all this goodwill to give.

There will be all sorts of live and silent auction items up for bid, including art from our wonderful community of generous artists, not to mention an assortment of items for the silent auction table.

1000 sq. ft. with full kitchen facilities, south side East Lake Mall.

A variety of catering options available.

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

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Jan 2013

Politics Ought To Be Uttered:

Power To The Parents

By Jacob Donovan

Many of you are aware of the current battle for the future of education, the argument for school choice. There are two sides poised to wage an epic media war for the hearts and minds of the voters. On one side, you have unions, union interests, and quite frankly, union money outfitting the cannons of fear and marching with the cavalry of institution.

On the other side you have concerned parents and the taxpayers smart enough to care. These citizens, wholly unfunded, and largely unorganized, are preparing to wade into the fray against seasoned veterans of successful past campaigns of misinformation, intimidation and outright deceit.

The battle lines are drawn, the standards raised, and the first volley has been loosed. On the radio, you will hear the union fear-mongering echoing through the theater of your mind. “A voucher system threatens public education, and limits options. This will hurt teachers

A Metamorphosis Contributed by Vic Kohring March 6, 2013 My parents have been the guiding light in my life, those with the greatest and most positive influence. Despite their guidance, there were times as a young man I needed to strike out on my own and learn from experience--from life›s ups and downs. One of those times was when I was 18 and right out of high school. I was told a big game guide was looking for someone with the fortitude to spend a winter at his remote hunting camp at the foot of the Wrangell

and hurt families and hurt our kids, and we’re proud to tell you.”

The analytical mind can’t help but scrutinize how exactly, in education and no other industry, competition reduces options, but there are many parents standing on the battlefield who have neither the time nor the interest to don the armor of skepticism and the shield of statistical fact. They buy the lie.

So here we stand, parents and taxpayers alike. The time for watered-down, apologist commentary that says all teachers are great and all our teachers are doing their best with what they are given, must end. I don’t blame the teachers directly for Alaska’s abysmal education numbers, but the numbers are the numbers, and our system doesn’t need modest reform. Our education system needs radical improvement.

Our education system was once the envy of the world. We stood tall atop the mountain of greatness, but over thirty years ago, a chill wind from the mouth and mind of one James Carter sent us looking for shelter further down the mountainside.

At the recent AEDC forecast luncheon, the state of Alaska’s education system was recapped in a short video available here: http://vimeo.com/36590967

Mountains, 120 miles northeast of Cordova. In exchange for tending his dozen horses, a flight to/from the site, basic rations, a cabin to live in and use of traps to run a trapline would be provided. As a naive teenager, I got it in my head that living in Alaska›s wilds in the dead of winter would be a great adventure, so I jumped at the chance.

except myself, which proved nearly fatal. I managed to survive the ordeal and emerged a better, stronger, more mature individual, ready for life and its challenges as an adult.

The results speak for themselves.

I teach a two-day program sponsored by a local rotary club called Choices. In it, I For over thirty years now, this top down speak to 7th grade classes about how their management of education, this stifling grade is really the turning point in their bureaucracy, has pressed us further lives where actions and performance and further down the slopes of success directly determine the number of doors and into the dreary plains of mediocrity that are open to them in life, both in where the US trails most developed college or in a non-academic vocation. I nations in literacy, math and science. encourage them to take an hour or two It is this system that prevents rapid per week to learn about the industry adjustment to student needs, stifles the that supports their personal interest. flexible development of curriculums, and Video gamers would be served to learn prevents our great teachers from being programming. Artists would be served to learn Photoshop. In one class several justly rewarded. years ago at Colony Middle School, I

I envisioned it as a fantasy world where I could live the life of a trapper and rugged outdoorsman much like Daniel Boone, a boyhood hero. The element of danger made it even more enticing.

But I failed to take into account how seriously dangerous wilderness living alone can be with no one to rely on

I was ill prepared for my venture into Alaska›s wilds. I had no real survival equipment and no means to communicate with anyone in an emergency. The closest civilization was the village of McCarthy, about 50 miles to the west, down the Chitina River and across a formidable mountain pass. I had no heavy weapon to protect myself should I encounter bears. I was in serous grizzly country too. It turns out two large grizzlies had not yet

spent half of the final day arguing with the union-protected, tenured teacher who kept vocally insisting most students would be best served to drop out at 16, get their G.E.D. and enter the workforce.

After trying to respectfully disagree, I eventually disagreed in a substantially less respectful way, after which the class erupted in laughter and I was branded a hero. Later, when I was leaving the administration offices, I mentioned his attempted torpedo of the program to the staff and was amazed by the response; “we’re just kind of waiting for him to retire.”

A system this dysfunctional does not need some little reform, it needs to be overhauled.When the power of the purse is placed with the parents, the education system will radically improve. It must, because now parents must make a choice, and choices must be weighed.

I submit, when given a choice, even uninvolved parents who are the bane of most talented teachers, will try to make a good choice for their kids. Power to the parents means schools must appeal to them, must vie for their child’s interest, must demonstrate the ability to succeed, and most importantly, must listen to the feedback of their customers parents.

Monopolies are outlawed for good hibernated and behaved threateningly toward me. My .22 Ruger pistol was nothing more than a pea shooter.

Fortunately, the danger passed after several nerve-wracking days. I then concluded if I were abandoned and not picked up by the pilot, I would venture out on my own with three horses and make the trek to McCarthy. One horse to ride, one to pack my gear and one to shoot and eat if necessary. That›s right-shoot and eat. Assuming the trip went well, it would be several days through deep snow and bitter cold, wrought with risk in conditions well below zero.

It would only be a last resort though.

Continues on page 35

Satire:

The Terror of Tooting

By Stuart Thompson

Through the Media, our government consistently reports that Al Qaeda— the propagandized face of Islamic fanaticism—is responsible for, or linked to, terrorism or opposition to US military forces worldwide.

Furthermore, to exist under such intelligence accuracy, Al Qaeda would require extraordinary—no, superhuman— ability, resources and influence. Sorry. Regardless of exciting propaganda, Islam’s history discredits its ability to develop near perfect supermen.

Media celebration of threats from Muslim “jihadists”—using selective quoting of the Koran—lets gullible people believe all Islam “is against us”. Yet generalizing that most or all members of a religion/race/nation act like its normal percentage of radicals and criminals has driven some of history’s most evil events.

Compliance violations should be immediately investigated for terrorist collusion. Terrorists must, must be rendered incapable of easily rearming themselves! Finally, state legislators should pass resolutions urging the President to get the FBI more robust, secret powers as fart police.

Be careful! Revealing improper thinking about homeland security could provoke attacks from fearenslaved Americans or attract government “anti-terrorist” attention. Nevertheless, please join me in begging—satirically—for government protection against fart wielding terrorists.

This is a call to awareness and even a call to arms. Not arms as in guns, etc., but with pen, paper and a voice to effect positive change. We can start in our big corner of the world as regards a topic that ultimately affects every living creature on the face of the Earth! It is a crime that is already well underway and continuously advancing, wreaking havoc like a malignant cancer.

Many people are so busy just trying to survive, squeezing 48 hours in to 24 hours, they blindly go on through their routine with no awareness, incentive or time to see the incepted changes in our food supply.

Being an Alaskan is both good and bad with this issue. The good is; there are a few natural borders to allay the progression of contamination of our local food supply. The second is our ability to converse and effect change through our political representation. I t is a lot easier because our community is smaller. Our distance from the lower 48 is also our Achilles’ heel, as we are dependent for much of our food from outside sources.

We are an experiment and our bodies being used as petre dishes by Monsanto, their subsidiaries and like-minded companies. We are fed corn that has been genetically modified, (GMO’s for short). I’m not against hybrids but GMO’s cross plants with animals or other plants of a totally different family. For instance, Monsanto’s “Roundup Ready Corn” has pesticides in the seed, in the plant and in the corn that comes to the table. Rats won’t eat it but we do. A Canadian study found the pesticide stayed in the gut of people who consumed it even over a relatively short period. So you don’t eat corn? Have you ever noticed how many

Tomatoes are another biggie. GMO fishtomatoes are firmer so they transport well. Have you ever cut into a tomato even from the organic section? Noticed the top where the stem is the next time you cut into one. If you got a GMO it will have spines or fish bones that radiate out from the core.

The lobbyists have lobbied so GMO’s and irradiated food do not have to be labeled.

Why!? FDA requires so much labeling!

Some states have banned GMO seeds and plants across their borders. Other states have a future ban in place. California is one of the latter. Contamination will already be rampant.

For example, mafia type Monsanto “happened” to be driving down a country road where a successful farmer who worked 15 years and developed a hardy variety of corn with other positive attributes. Monsanto’s tarp “happened” to fly up and some of their poisonous seeds cross-pollinated with the farmer’s. As Monsanto’s poison seeds are copyrighted, Monsanto sued the farmer. The farmer said he didn’t want Monsanto’s tainted seeds and they were the ones who tainted his crop and research. I’m paraphrasing.

For the full story, go to Mercola .com. Many good farms are put out of business because of strong-armed and deep-pocketed criminals like Monsanto and their cohorts. My sister

Continues on page 35

Mar 2013

Moreover, billions of dollars get spent on homeland security schemes that don’t work or that any intelligent teenager can think a way around. See the Washington

Methane gas and other components of flatulence (farts) are scientifically proven to be lethal when concentrated. Therefore, anti-fart patrolling of government buildings is vital to protect elected officials from this diabolical terrorist technique. Careful attention should be given to enclosed spaces, which are extremely vulnerable to suicide fart bombers. Mexican restaurants and stores in our capitols must be forbidden from serving or selling bean products.

By Susan L. Brock

products contain corn syrup or corn in them? Do you like pizza? Most have a little cornmeal sprinkled on the bottom of the crust. In case you’re not one for the fruits and veggies, consider, what do the animals eat? Corn! Bird, cattle and swine consume it in their feed.

Even food we give our pets has corn in it. GMO corn taints the flesh, eggs, milk and milk products ie. butter, cheese and everything that uses them as ingredients.

Example: NAZI Germany propaganda, in demonizing the Jews, used selective quoting of the Torah and exaggerations of humanly normal levels of Jewish radicalism/criminality.

Therefore, out of respect for our government’s dishonesty, satirically consider the following anti-terrorist measures.

Heads Up – About Monsanto

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Yet if it could actually obtain the accurate intelligence to so microscopically identify and track enemies, all our wars would have been over years ago.

Post expose series by Dana Priest, starting July 19th 2010, on homeland security waste and corruption.

Because our government “knows best”, Americans have to submit to all sorts of surveillance measures out of the paranoia that any of us will become homegrown terrorists if any fanatic suggests it. Objections to this gang-rape of tax payers are deemed support for terrorism.

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

Feb 2013

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

makeasceneak@mac.com SENIORS 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; dba Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Store

Provides medical equipment to all income brackets in the Valley; provides clothing and household goods to Valley residents that are economically disadvantaged.

John Rozzi , 376-5740

Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. (WASI)

A Health and Wellness Campus for Seniors on the Go! The goal at WASI is to assist and refer services for Seniors 60 and older so they can live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

Some of the services provided are: Meals: Family Style Meals Monday through Friday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Center. Meals on Wheels home delivered meals.

Housing: Independent Housing for low income and Market rate individuals. Optional Assisted Living Services Transportation: Partnership with MASCOT Bus $.60 per one way ride. Dr. visits by appointment Other Activities: Cards, Wii, and Painting at the Center Blood Pressure Checks Club50 Fitness Center, Strong Seniors Program ($5/8 weeks) Shopping Trips and other outings Valley Performing Arts Theater Visits And much more… call 376-3104 opt.2 for more information.

Dennie Jaques , 376-3104

Mat-Su Area Partnership (MAP)

An organization of non-profit agencies in the MatSu Valley. MAP holds a monthly meeting on a Thursday at the Menard Sports Complex in Wasilla. www.mapartnership.org/matsu/

Mid-Valley Seniors Inc

Mid-valley Seniors has 3 senior housing units 18 apartments and serves a congregate meal Mon-Fri at 5.30PM Soup and salad bar main meal served at 6 Pm. Home delivered meals served daily fresh Mon-Fri, weekend meals are frozen.

Transportation Department for doctors appointments in the Valley Wasilla and Palmer area, Mon-Wed-Fri 9.00Am -3Pm.

Shopping trips, and pharmacy stops, Tues – Thursday 9Am -1Pm Come up to the Center for activities or dinner,24 hours in advance notice.

Lorie Rounds, 892-6114 mvsc@mtaonline.net www.mid-valleyseniors.org

FAMILIES & CHILDREN Alaska Family Services

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

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

LINKS Mat-Su Parent Resource Center.

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

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

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

Family Promise Mat-Su

Provides a shelter for families without housing.

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

Applications are available on our website.

357-6160, www.familypromisematsu.org

The Children’s Place

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

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

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska

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

Alaska Center for Resource Families

Provides support, training and education for foster, relative and adoptive families caring for children that have been abused and neglected. ACRF also helps support the Mat-Su Grandparents Support Group in collaboration with Links and Volunteers of America. For more information about foster care and adopting children that are in the OCS child protection system visit our website www.acrf.org or call 376-4678.

376-4678, bwoodin@nwresource.org

Pillows for Kids Foundation

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

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

funding for the scholarships.

Valerie Koivunen pillowsforkids@gmail.com

The Moose Boosters Wrestling Club

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

Michelle Heun 355-7099

Set Free Alaska

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

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

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

Big Lake Community Clothing Closet

Providing free, good quality clothing to individuals and/or families in need, all donated by our wonderful Alaska neighbors. We have clothing and shoes for women, men, children and babies, in addition to small household necessities (as available), all at no cost to those in need. This oneof-a-kind program serves people throughout the area. There is no charge for those in need, just a hope that those who are able to make a donation will do so – monetary donations pay the monthly rent on the building in Big Lake, located at 2955 Big Lake Rd. We’re just past the Tesoro station, in a vibrant green building on the left side of the road (you can’t miss us). If you are unable to make a donation at this time, we understand - it’s OK - we just want to make you feel welcome to come and help clothe yourself and family as needed.

Our hours are Tues. 9am to 1pm, and Weds. 11am to 3pm. If you have good quality used clothing you’d like to donate to help other Alaskans in need, you may do so at our store in Big Lake during the above hours.

Monetary donations can be mailed to the Big Lake Community Clothing Closet at PO Box 527069, Big Lake, AK 99652. We are a non-profit organization and will provide our tax ID number to donors. Please consider supporting the Big Lake Community Clothing Closet so we can continue to help our Alaskan neighbors in need. And, if you know of needy families, please tell them about us so we can help them too. Look us up on Facebook for additional information and pictures.

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

The ARTs

Radio Free Palmer

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

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

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

Valley Fine Arts Association

VFAA was formed to teach techniques, and encourage fellowship among visual artists in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. we strive to promote

a supportive attitude toward visual arts in our Alaskan community.

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

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

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

Mat-Su Community Chorus, Inc.

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

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

We meet September through May 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 jungstensgericht@yahoo.com or by telephone at (907) 376-5060. The band’s website can be found at http://www.alaskaceltic.org

Mat-Su Concert Band, Inc.

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

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

The Whirling Rainbow Foundation

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

Sanctuary and Sustainable Community in Palmer.

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

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

Valley Performing Arts

We’re celebrating 36 years of Quality Live Theatre!

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

Purchase your tickets online or from our office.

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

373-0195, www.valleyperformingarts.org

Valley Arts Alliance

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

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

We work with local libraries, schools, museums, art councils, and music and art groups to create more venues for the arts, and to help promote art related events. www.valleyartsalliance.com

ANIMALS

Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue (ADPR)

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

745-7030 adpr03@yahoo.com

Alaska Assistance Dogs (Aad)

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

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

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

Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary

Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary has provided shelter and care for unwanted pet rabbits since 2001. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable corporation. Rabbits are taken in when space is available. They are evaluated for behavior and personality, spayed/neutered, then adopted to new pet homes. Bunnies not able to be adopted are maintained permanently at the sanctuary.

Responsible adult volunteers are always needed.

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

VARIETY

The Sertoma Club - Wasilla

We host the Mat Su Polar Plunge raising funds for non-profits in the Matanuska Susitna Valley, Alaska. February 2011 we saw 85 jumpers raise

TOPS

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

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

Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS)

Valley Residential Services (VRS)

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

(907) 357-0256 , valleyres.org

Alaska Attachment & Bonding Associates (AABA)

Food Pantry of Wasilla

The North America Outdoor Institute (NAOI) is a not-for-profit community outreach organization providing outdoor safety and environmental awareness education programs for the general public in an effort to save lives from preventable outdoor injuries and deaths.

Debra McGhan, debra@naoiak.org 376-2898 , www.naoiak.org

Alaskans for Palmer Hay Flats

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

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

Alaska Frontier Trappers Association

The Alaska Frontier Trappers Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the ethical and lawful practice of trapping Alaska’s fur bearers. We work to educate fellow trappers, children and the public in general about trapping as a necessary wildlife management and research tool.

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

CONSERVATION

Wasilla Soil & Water Conservation District (WSWCD)

The WSWCD is a non-profit formed in 1948 to assist landowners & land managers with conservation & development on land through technical assistance, projects & education programs & services.

WSWCD is an active, year-round communitybased organization; a non-regulatory agency; a strong partner with various government & nonprofit agencies/groups; a credible, knowledgeable advocate for conserving soil & water resources supported by the time & energy of neighbors & volunteers dedicated to making a positive difference in their communities. Our priorities are: Salmon enhancement & restoration; Soil, forage crops & manure testing; Stream & lake bank stabilization; Water quality & instream flows; Arbor Day activities & tree planting; Invasive weed assessments – land & water; Trail use & salmon stream crossings; Cooperator & community conservation needs; Public information, involvement & education.

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

Email information to:

makeasceneak@mac.com Marian Call, Dinner and a Show Fundraiser for Greg Gusse Sat, March 23 Tickets: $20 or $200 for a table http://funds4greg.eventbrite.com/ Or at the door at…

Palmer Moose Lodge Sat, March 23, 5-8 pm Beer and Wine available Delicious dinner by Chef Marian Romano!

Live Art Auction!

Emma Hill Concert Fri, March 15, 7pm-9pm Sutton Public Library and Community Resource Center 11301 N Chickaloon Way, Sutton, AK $15 children under 14 free with parents.

Includes refreshments Sutton Library 745-4467 Friends of the Sutton Library Emma Hill performs at Vagabond Blues Palmer on Sun, March 31. $15 General Admission, $10 for students, senior, military 6:30 pm Opening act: Gerygone & Twig Gerygone & Twig Debut Album Release Friday April 5th from 6-8p.m downstairs of First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla, featuring Marching Band Solo, slam poetry of Ian Hendren, Dyllan Adams, and others, free cake, coffee, and carrots for all, CD’s available!

Alaska Assistance Dogs Fundraiser May 3rd Palmer Elks Lodge #1842, music by the Carhartt Brothers silent auctions and raffles For further info email Cris, Cris4ten@yahoo. com Alaska Veterans Museum Movie Night March 16, 7 pm $3, Popcorn and beverage included Alaska Veterans Museum, 333W 4th Ave, Suite 227 Blue Market Place Mall (corner of 4th Ave and D Street) Anchorage Beehive Collective: About Coal Wednesday, March 20, 4-5:30 pm Mat-Su College, FSM 202 www.beehivecollective.org UAA Concert Board presents comedian Mike Birbiglia Friday April 19, 2013, 7:30 PM Williamson Auditorium Cash Mob Palmer March 21st Eagle Hotel Bar Gather after work Special Cash Mob Menu available.

3rd Annual Who Let the Girls Out? Friday April 26th and Saturday April 27th, Palmer Health Fair Saturday, April 28th, Palmer Senior Citizens Center 8 am – 1 pm.

Wham, Bam! It’s A Poetry Slam!

Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry, 3800 Museum Drive in Wasilla Sat, April 27, 7 to 9pm $5.00 entry fee ValleyArtsAlliance.com for info Matt Wiggins, Dave Burroughs Comedy Friday March 29 Doors open at 8 Show at 9 Mat-Su Resort 21+ And it’s only $10 New Dances 2013 April 12 – April 21 Friday/Saturday 8:00 p.m.; Sunday 6:00 p.m.

UAA Fine Arts Building, Mainstage Theatre Free parking is available $12/$15 at www.UAAtix.com, or 786-4TIX All seats general admission Homeschool Prom April 19 Kendall Ford, Wasilla 8-11 pm Tickets $40, $50 after April 1st Radio Free Palmer Annual Meeting Music by Diana Z Author Elise Patkotak to speak March 23, 2 pm Palmer Train Depot Native Jazz Quartet Tours Alaska 4/7/13: Ketchikan Tribal House, Ketchikan (Quartet), 7pm 4/8/13: Juneau Arts and Cultural Center, Juneau (Quartet), 7pm 4/9/13: Taproot, Anchorage (Quartet), 7pm 4/10-12/13: University of Alaska Fairbanks Jazz Festival, Fairbanks (Quartet) 6/15/13: TBA, Sitka, AK Quartet (opening concert: Native Jazz Workshop) www.nativejazzquartet.com Johnny B’s Rhythm of the North Sat, March 23 at 7:30, doors open at 7 $5 12 and under / $15 DAC member / $18 general admission Tickets available online or at the door. www.denaliartscouncil.org Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, D Street Downtown Talkeetna, look for the big red building behind West Rib Pub. Valley Vogue Wearable Art Presented by Mat-Su Women’s Connection Monday, March 18, noon to 1:30 p.m.

Evangelos Restaurant $16 Inclusive. Lunch Reservations & Complimentary Daycare call Janet @907-892-8482 on or before April 15.

St. Patrick’s Day Potluck Dinner

Wasilla Area Senior Center, 1301 S Century Circle Friday, March 15, 2013 5pm to 8pm Tickets $5.00 per person. Bring your favorite dish to share.

Wasilla Area Senior Center Claudia Dolfi, 376-3104 ext 8674 Have Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Wasilla Area Senior Center 1301 S. Century Circle March 30, 2013 8:00 am to 1:00 pm $5.00 per person or $20/family. This price includes a pancake breakfast and a picture with the Easter Bunny.

CCS Early Learning Donna Johnson 745-4040 Hearing Tests, Sales and Service Wasilla Area Senior Center 1301 S. Century Circle March 11 & 25, 2013 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Free Hearing Tests Alaska Hearing Institute Barry White 907-344-4900 Today’s Woman Show Menard Sports Center 1001 South Mack Drive Wasilla Fri, April 19, 2:00-7pm Sat, April 20, 11am-6pm Sun, April 21, 11am-5pm Free Admission D.A.M.M. STRAIGHT PRODUCTIONS, INC. PH:907-344-1007 www.dammstraightproductions.com Wasilla Lions Club Meeting Wasilla Area Senior Center 1301 S. Century Circle March 5 & 19, 2013 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Lions Club members and potential members Wasilla Area Lions Club Phyllis Beer 376-4263 Wasilla Area Senior Center Crafts Fair 1301 S Century Circle, Wasilla Area Senior Center Sat, March 23, 10am to 5pm Sun, March 24, 11am to 4pm Entrance is Free Wasilla Area Senior Center Mary Lackey, 376-3104 Ramblin Jack Elliott Wed, Apr 3 - 7:00PM Vagabond Blues Matanuska Susitna Orchestra Spring Concert Palmer Train Depot Sun, May 5, 2013 at 3:00 Free Friends of the Palmer Public Library Kite Festival May 11 on the green behind Rusty’s.

Free Family Fun Event.

Alaska Design Forum presents Plasma Studio (architects, London) Anchorage Museum auditorium (7th ave entrance) Monday, March 25, 7pm - 8:30pm

Feb 2013

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

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

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

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

We also administer distribution of TEFAP government commodities. TEFAP is (The Emergency Food Assistance Program). This is a needs-based program, which may be accessed monthly by any client who meets the governmentestablished-qualifications. Food distributed is

North America Outdoor Institute

10th of month by 5PM

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

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

OUTDOORS

CALENDAR SUBMISSION

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Our mission is to educate and provide opportunities in our community to reduce, reuse, and recycle for the long-term good of all. Our vision is to establish the Mat-Su Borough as a model recycling community for Alaska. We are open for residential recycling Wednesday through Friday 12-6pm and Saturday 11-3pm. Businesses can call ahead for hours. Your permanent community recycling center is located in our new green building at 9465 E. Chanlyut Circle, next to the animal shelter at the Central Landfill. Volunteer opportunities available. community@valleyrecycling.org www.valleyrecycling.org, 745.5544

based on availability and instructions from USDA. In case of emergencies such as fire or earthquake in the valley, the Food Pantry of Wasilla also cooperates with other organizations and government agencies to render assistance.

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

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almost $20,000 which was then given to the Food Pantry of Wasilla and Turn A Leaf Thrift Stores. The Food Pantry provides emergency food supplies to families in need. Turn A Leaf has a medical lending equipment program which is now organized with software purchased with funds received. Both were grant recipients from the Mat Su Sertoma Club.

Grant applications for the 2012 Mat Su Polar Plunge are located on our website: www.matsuplunge. com.

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

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

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Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Mar 2013

$10 general admission, $5 w/ student ID Alaska Design Forum alaskadesignforum.org Alaska Design Forum presents LUST (graphic design, Netherlands) Anchorage Museum auditorium (7th ave entrance) Monday, April 1, 7pm - 8:30pm $10 general admission, $5 w/ student ID Alaska Design Forum alaskadesignforum.org Alaska Design Forum presents Lateral Office (architect, Toronto) Anchorage Museum auditorium (7th ave entrance) Monday, April 22, 7pm - 8:30pm $10 general admission, $5 w/ student ID Alaska Design Forum alaskadesignforum.org San Jose Taiko Atwood Concert Hall, ACPA (Friday, March 22nd, 7:30pm) Tickets $11 - $34, call CenterTix at 263ARTS or go to www.akjt.org Alaska Junior Theater Go to www.akjt.org or call 272-7546 for more information Willow Public Library-Help Our Library Grow MURDER AT THE DEADWOOD SALOON Sat, April 13th, 2013 at 6:00pm Willow Community Center, Willow, AK 1st annual REAP Volunteer Roundup Thursday, March 28th, 6:00 to 8:00 pm Coffman Engineers, 800 F Street, Anchorage Matanuska Susitna Orchestra Spring Concert Free Palmer Train Depot Sunday, May 5, 2013 at 3:00 Friends of the Palmer Public Library Anchorage Music Co-op Presents: Amy Lou Hettinger S aturday March 16, 2013 at 7pm Fiori D’Italia (in the Quonset hut) 2502 McRae Rd, Anchorage, AK Admission: $5 “MURDER & MAYHEM” sponsored by the Willow Public Library “Help Our Library Grow” campaign April 13th, 2013 at 6pm.

Tickets are only $25.

Call or come by the Willow Public Library for details.

907-495-7323 Sheep Mountain Challenge Fat Tire Bike Race Saturday, March 23rd volunteers are needed.

Races begin at 9:00 a.m. and include a 35 Mile Race, a 20 Mile Race, and a 10 Mile Cruiser Loop for recreation riders.

Check out the link below for more race details, registration and lodging: www.vmbah.org/trailpost-news Wednesday Night At The Museum The Dororthy G. Page Museum Wed 5- 7 pm , March 20, 2013 The Better Companion Learn about the History of Dog Mushing in Alaska March 27, 2013 Learn Tools and Terminology used for Dog Mushing All events are FREE and Open to Public Denali Destroyer DOLLS Roller Derby Host Far North Derby Dolls of Kenai March 16 2013 Doors open at 6pm Wheels roll at 7pm MTA Events Center (Palmer Ice Arena) 1317 Kerry Weiland Way Palmer, AK 99645 (907)746-4231 $5. for seniors/Military/Kids under12...$10.00 General Admission or $15.00 reserved on the floor Chili & Jam: Enjoy a hearty bowl of chili and a heaping spoonful of music Every Tuesday except March 26 6:30pm-8:30pm Starlight Ballroom, Anchorage Senior Activity Center 1300 E. 19th Ave., Anchorage Music is free; chili and other refreshments available for purchase.

Anchorage Senior Activity Center & Hurricane Dave Denali Destroyer DOLLS Roller Derby Host Far North Derby Dolls of Kenai March 16 2013 Doors at 6pm Wheels roll 7pm MTA Events Center (Palmer Ice Arena) 1317 Kerry Weiland Way Palmer, AK 99645 746-4231 $5. for seniors/Military/Kids under12...$10.00 General Admission or $15.00 reserved on the floor www.denalidestroyers.org Hosted by the Denali Destroyer Dolls 907-376-1299 www.deanlidestroyer.org Craft Bazaar Sat, May 4 - Sun, May 5 Sat, 10am-5pm Sun, 10am-4pm Valley Artists’ Guild Arts and Crafts Bazaar, Free North Bowl 3250 Palmer Wasillla Hwy Wasilla, AK 99654 Valley Artists’ Guild 907-315-2840 Boom Town Derby Dame Reqruitment Mon, March 18 7 pm Mat-su Borough Gym 350 E. Dahlia Free Boom Town Derby Dames 907-982-7565 www.boomtownderby.org Wasilla Sunrise Rotary Weekly Meetings

Tue March 12 - Tue March 26 7am - 8am Regan Building 3161 E. Palmer Wasilla Highway Meeting $3 Continental Breakfast $12 907-841-4487 www.wasillasunriserotary.com Denali Destroyer DOLLS Roller Derby Host Far North Derby Dolls of Kenai March 16 2013 Doors open at 6pm Wheels roll at 7pm MTA Events Center (Palmer Ice Arena) 1317 Kerry Weiland Way Palmer, AK 99645 (907)746-4231 $5. for seniors/Military/Kids under12...$10.00 General Admission or $15.00 reserved on the floor www.denalidestroyers.org Hosted by the Denali Destroyer Dolls 907-376-1299 www.deanlidestroyer.org Anchorage Rocks for Autism Friday April 5 7pm-11pm Eagle River Boys and Girls Club 11700 Old Glenn Hwy donations accepted 907-694-5437 https://www.facebook.com/events/324 819480970428/?ref=ts&fref=ts Shy Bones, Cliff and Ivy, Noise Brigade and Night Flight Fri, March 22 7pm-11pm Eagle River Boys and Girls Club 11700 Old Glenn Hwy 5.00 or 5 cans of food Eagle River Boys and Girls Club 907-694-5437 www.facebook.com/pages/EagleRiver-Boys-Girls-Club/ Mat-Su March for Babies Walk Saturday, March 23, 2013 9:00 a.m. check-in 10:00 a.m walk begins AT&T Sports Center 1507 N Double B Street Palmer donation March of Dimes Alaska Chapter 907-276-4111 marchforbabies.org Wasilla Sunrise Rotary Weekly Meetings Tue March 12 - Tue March 26 7am - 8am Regan Building 3161 E. Palmer Wasilla Highway Meeting $3 Continental Breakfast $12 Boom Town Derby Dame Reqruitment Mon, March 18, 7 pm Mat-su Borough Gym 350 E. Dahlia Free AK Tuesday Night Fights Every Tuesday through April 30, 2013 Doors open 6:45pm Show starts 7:45pm Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center

1001 S Mack Dr $16.00 - $35.00 Alaska Health Fair Four community health fairs Wasilla Area Seniors Mar 9, 9 am - 1 pm Talkeetna Community Health Fair Mar 15, 8 am – 12 noon Big Lake Elementary School April 13, 8 am – 12 noon Willow Community Health Fair April 20, 8 am – 12 noon Country Hoe Down. Line dancing, silent auction, face painting, dinner, desserts.

Saturday March 23, 2013 4pm-6pm Eagle River VFW Post 9785 10527 VFW Road, Eagle River Donation at the door/ day of event Radio Free Palmer Annual Meeting Sat, Mar 23, 2 pm Palmer Train Depot Grease Colony Drama at Colony High Theatre Fridays and Saturdays Feb 8-23 at 7:00 Thursdays Feb 14 & 16 at 7:00 Saturday matinees Feb 16 & 23 at 2:00 Adults $15 Students $10 Available online at: matsuk12.us/chs Colony Drama Brian Mead, 861-5541 Brian.mead@matsuk12.us On Facebook at Colony High School Drama Palmer Public Library’s Events Every Tuesday at 10am: Baby Lap Sit Every Tuesday at 11am: 2 year old Story Time Every Wednesday at 2pm: Open Room for Preschoolers Every Thursday at 10:30am: 3-5 year old Story Time Friday, February 8th: 7pm. Foreign Film, Hospitalite (see library website www.cityofpalmer/library for synopsis) Monday, February 18th: 7-8pm.

Friends of the Palmer Library Meeting ATY Spring Break Theatre Bootcamp Mon, March 11 - Fri March 15, 2013 9am - 4pm North Star Elementary Tuition: $250 Space is Limited Contact: admin@alaskatheatreofyouth. org 907-338-4901 Backcountry Film Festival: Oosik Weekend Friday, March 15th at 7:30pm, doors open at 7pm. $6 DAC member / $8 general admission Tickets available on the DAC website at or at the door here http://www.winterwildlands.org/ index.php Johnny B’s Rhythm of the North Saturday, March 23rd at 7:30, doors open at 7

$5 12 and under / $15 DAC member / $18 general admission Tickets available online or at the door. www.johnnyb88.com/index_music. html Emma Hill CD Release Party with E van Phillips of the Whipsaws Saturday, March 30th at 7:30pm, d oors open at 7pm $16 DAC member / $18 general admission Tickets may be purchased online or at the door. music and bios: Emma Hill: www.emmahillmusic.com Evan Phillips www.evanphillips.net Alaska Junior Theater (AJT) presents San Jose Taiko Mar 22, 7:30 PM Atwood Concert Hall Clue The Musical Valley Performing Arts Feb 22 through Mar 17 Fri & Sat 8pm and Sun 2pm $17 Students/Seniors and $19 Adults Valley Performing Arts, 251 W. Swanson Avenue, Wasilla 373-0195 or tickets available on line

Ends: When we read one million pages Jean Powell 864-9177 jpowellatci.wasilla.ak.us Shy Bones, Cliff and Ivy, Noise Brigade and Night Flight Fri, March 22 7pm-11pm Eagle River Boys and Girls Club 11700 Old Glenn Hwy 5.00 or 5 cans of food Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Fri Mar. 29, at 7:30 PM Egan Center Beer Beat Beer tasting and interactive percussion class Led by Dr. Meggie Aube March 23, 3-4 pm $20 Arkose Brewery, Palmer Facebook.com/arkosebeer Mat-Su March for Babies Walk Mar 23, AT&T Sport Center 9 am check in 10 am walk starts

Winter Conservation Series Learn about gardening All sessions - 7:00-8:30 pm, Thursdays thru April 11, 2013 at the Mat-Su College, College

Anchorage Rocks for Autism Friday April 5 7pm-11pm Eagle River Boys and Girls Club 11700 Old Glenn Hwy Donations accepted

The 3 Annual Legendary Winter Karaoke Contest Feb 14-Mar 23! $1,000 prize, winner takes all…

ANYTHING GOES! Solo, duo, trio, even a quartet!

Country Legends w/ Gary Mac of Music and Memories

Willow Public Library-Help Our Library Grow MURDER AT THE DEADWOOD SALOON Saturday, April 13th, 2013 at 6:00pm Willow Community Center, Willow, AK Tickets are a STEAL at $25 per warm body, including plenty o’ grub

Mat-Su March for Babies Walk Mar 23, AT&T Sport Center 9 am check in 10 am walk starts

When You Comin’ Back, Red Ryder?

Written by Mark Medoff Directed by David Edgecombe WHEN: April 5 - 21, 2013 Fridays/Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., Sundays at 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: UAA Harper Studio Theatre, Fine Arts 129 TICKETS: $10/$15/$17 at www.UAAtix. com or www.Centertix.net Discounts available for groups of 12+, call the UAA box office at 786-4849 for more information.

Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium’s Store Outside Your Door Alaska Plants as Food and Medicine Symposium May 24 – 27 Aleyeska Resort Anchorage Folk Festival Jan 17 at 7pm until Jan 27 at 10:30pm 11 Days of FREE musical performances and workshops Over 150 Musical Acts, 55 Workshops, 10 Dances, Folk Week and lots of Jamming!

Guest Artists: Blue Moose and the Unbuttoned Zippers Cahalen Morrison & Eli West IditaPage Challenge Wasilla Public Library 391 N Main St Wasilla AK 99654 Begins: Mon, Jan 14

Winter Conservation Series sessions Wasilla & Palmer Soil & Water Conservation Districts Thursdays, Mat Su College; 7:00-8:30 pm : Mar 21 Invasive Weeds: Why we MUST be concerned!

Presenter: Brianne Blackburn April 4 Private/Homeowners Well Protection & Testing; Presenter: Chuck Kaucic April 11 Intro to Alaskan Gardening Presenter: John McNeal Sessions are FREE.

Register by contacting: Lynne Atkin, 357-4563 X 109 or adminasst@wasillaswcd.org RECURRING StrongWomen - Palmer Monday - Wednesday - Friday 11am - 12 pm Mat-Su Cooperative Extension Service 809 S Chugach St.., Ste #2, Palmer, $5 for a two month session Julie Cascio 907-745-3360 http://www.uaf.edu/ces/districts/ matsu/hhfd/strongwomen/ Sewing Circle Meets the first and third Wed of the month 1-3pm, Free Mat-Su Senior Services 1132 S. Chugach St. Palmer 745-5454 mat-suseniorservices.com Caregivers Connection Last Mon of each month 1-3pm Free Mat-Su Senior Services 1132 S. Chugach St. Palmer, AK 99645 745-5454 mat-suseniorservices.com sueann.smithatmat-suseniorservices. com NuKreationZ Art & Creativity Center Tues-Sat Noon-6pm Art gallery, classes and workshops Make your own pottery Palmer Museum New Hours Wed-Fri 10am-5pm Sat, 10-2pm Free Admission Art Exhibits & More

Women, Wine & Wednesday Third Wed every month Presented by Lakeshore Studio East Lake Mall, Big Lake 6:30pm $25 RSVP 230-0935

Sahara Storm Studio and Circus Arts Clinics 982-4955 Valley Arts Alliance Meeting Thursdays at 11:00am Sophia’s Cafe Neo, Palmer Wasilla Hwy Tammy’s Turf for Tots!

For children 6 & under $5 per child Mon - Fri 10am-1pm Tues & Thurs FREE! Menard Memorial Sports Center: 357-9100

Free Hearing Screening provided by Mat-Su Sertoma Club First Sat Every Month 10am-1pm Wasilla Physical Therapy Deana Moore 761-5229

BABY STEPS Walking Program for New & Expectant Moms & Dads Mon & Wed 8:00AM-Noon Menard Memorial Sports Center 357-9100

Whatever! Teen Lounge Featuring Wii gaming at Palmer Library T-Th, 2-4pm 746-4700

Business Networking International Every Tues 9am Menard Memorial Sports Center 357-9100

Tuesday * Thursday 4:00 pm. Call Peggy 715-6338 Lower Level of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 501 E. Bogard Rd. Improve balance, strength, stamina and fight osteoporosis. $5.00 per 8 week session.

Alaska Celtic Pipes and Drums Free piping and drumming Instruction Every Fri Evening, 5-5:45 pm Eagle River Presbyterian Church 12836 Old Glen Hwy, Eagle River Wasilla Meta-Rose Library: Toddler Storytime Wed at 10:30am and 1:30pm Preschool Storytime Thurs at 10:30am and 1:30pm Baby Lapsit Storytime Fri at 10:30am Discussion Junction Family Book Club First Tues of each month Wasilla Meta-Rose Library

Mat-Su Community Chorus Rehearsal Thursdays @ 7pm Wasilla High School All vocal ranges welcome No auditions necessary, unless 18 years of age or younger

Reading Rendezvous Last Saturday of every month.

Wasilla Meta-Rose Library

Mat-Su Concert Band Rehearsal Musicians Welcome Rehearsals are every Mon. 7 to 9 p.m.

Teeland Middle School.

For more information, contact Gleo Huyck at 746-0628 matsuconcertband@gmail.com

2 year old Story Time Every Tues at 11am

Learn to Skate 60 minute class for ages 3- Teens Curtis D Menard Memorial Center Class schedule and registration forms are available online: www.cityofwasilla.com Wasilla Strong Women Strength Training Monday * Wednesday * Friday 10-11 am * Year Round Program * Call Sharon 376-4434

Palmer Public Library: Baby Lap Sit Every Tues at 10am

Baby Lap Sit Every Wed at 2pm 3-5 year old Story Time Every Thurs at 10:30am Foreign Film Every Second Fri at 7pm Schwabenhof Live Music Every Fri & Sat 9pm until…

Sunday Blues Open Mic Jam 9pm Tuesday Dart Night Fairview Inn Music Talkeetna Every Thur at 9:30pm Open Mic. Every Fri at 8pm and Sat at 10pm Live Music.

Wasilla Bible Church Sunday Menard Memorial Sports Center 357-9100 NAOI Outdoor Safety Classes Full schedule of classes online www.naoiak.org 376-2898.

The Crystal Mandala Classes A variety of creative classes Every Sat 2-5pm Palmer Museum of History and Art Open Everyday 9am-6pm Free Admission and light refreshments 725 S Valley Way, Palmer 746-7668 www.palmermuseum.org Museum of Alaska Transportation Open Everyday10am-5pm 3800 W Museum Drive, Wasilla 376-1211 Mat-Su Central School Enrolling K-12 Homeschool Support & Distance Delivery Education www.MatSuCentral.org Wasilla 352-7450 Mat-Su College Apply for scholarships now New dance and music classes available spring semester Current employment opportunities Wasilla www.MatSu.Alaska.edu

Power To The Parents Cont. reason, and we’ve suffered the pains of poor options long enough.

The unions loathe the notion of accountability and mediocre and uninspiring teachers fear it but for very different reasons. Great teachers however, embrace it. Great teachers know not everyone is cut out to educate and inspire, and they’re correct. Great teachers know the material is largely irrelevant. It is their interaction and presentation of the material that engages students, as each of us with fond memories of an amazing teacher can attest. I believe teachers deserve to be paid well when they educate well, and a good teacher understands power to the parents is a pay-raise in the works.

system that rewards teachers a cash-bonus for each student who performs above grade level, cumulative bonuses per category.

With power to the parents, the negative consequences take care of themselves through natural market forces. We need only concern ourselves with the duty to reward excellence, handsomely.

All this is possible in time if we are victorious, but victory lies in the language.

This must not be a war between choice and public education, that language is pure foolishness.

The public will continue to be educated, only at the behest of parents, and not political purchase. Educational unions and top-down bureaucracy are effectively dream thieves. Through their systems go We must change our language to win. the bulk of our youth, and the results are Choices don’t inspire people, dreams pitiful, measured not only by the poor inspire people. I dream of an education literacy rates and abysmal math scores system as varied and diverse as my options we witness today, but by the loss of each for footwear, where two computer-game- affected child’s American dream. That loving parents with a son who wants to average student who straddled the line spend his whole day playing Halo can between his smarter peers and his lesser, enroll that boy in a school that is staffed whose chance to believe in himself and with people who get excited about software have the spark of imagination fanned into and want to train the next generation of the the flames of a bright future was instead, world’s best coders. A school where two snuffed through the pure avarice of the hippie soul-mates can enroll their animal- NEA and the apathy of tenured teachers. loving daughter into a school designed around a fully functional ecosystem We can no longer allow the status quo where the latest in forestry, farming, and to steal the futures of our middle-class agriculture technology are innovated at children. Do not be seduced into framing the same time they are educated. Where the argument between choice and public two thespians who met in acting class can education. Do not apologize, and stop send their precocious kids to master the worrying about people’s feelings. After all, disciplines of poise, articulation, delivery these are our kids were talking about here. and timing that will prepare them for a career on the stage. Imagine a system The detractors of school choice are the where Christian parents, or Muslim dream thieves, we are the parents. parents, or Hindu parents can send their Power to the parents. children to a school that wraps a classical education into and around the foundations Jacob Donovan lives and works in of their faith.

Wasilla, AK. A parent, husband, and I dream of a teaching environment that business owner, he blogs about politics, aligns teachers with the subject they are public relations, people and parenting at qualified and excited to teach. I believe in a his website: www.oughttobeuttered.com

Mar 2013

Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

34

Metamorphisis Continued As a matter of survival, I was prepared to do anything.

Making matters worse was that the pilot and owner of the hunting camp and a man I barely knew, was in an angry, caustic mood the day he flew me to the site. He didn›t speak a word during the 60 minute flight out. I sensed hostility.

When we landed, he remained silent without eye contact other than to bluntly say, «Don›t burn down my cabin.»

my time was spent literally trying to survive, not crack under pressure and maintain my composure. My cabin was a poorly constructed, wood frame shack with thin walls, little insulation and no electricity. A small wood stove barely kept it warm enough during the 15 below temperatures. An open section of creek, 50 feet from the cabin door, provided drinking water.

was doing research on Monsanto for a University paper and found that Monsanto does NOT allow GMOs in their food service area. Ding! Dong!

Actually, that should sound like a 5 alarm fire or tornado warning.

It’s definitely a “Heads Up Warning”.

Buy and if necessary, store heritage seeds. It could be a life saver both short term and long term as Monsanto is buying up heritage seeds.

We also need to pass a law that irradiated food is labeled. There is NO nutritional value in irradiated food. It is the same as dead water.

Bottom line: Alaska needs good healthy food as our winter season is so long. Our health depends on what we consume. We have higher stresses on our bodies because of the lack of sunlight and the length of our cold season. Good food and water equals quality of life.

Contact your representative and/or sign a petition to get protection for our state

As the years passed, I was able to draw on my experience and the mental toughness acquired by facing down death as a young man. It›s a quality that has served me well when encountering situations where I must seek inner strength to stand up to adversity, particularly in the political arena as a state legislator and the ugly legal problems I eventually encountered. So as traumatic as my experience was in the Wrangell Mountains decades ago, it was well worth the pain.

Mar 2013

How can we protect ourselves? Two possibilities exist. One, pass a law no GMO seeds or plants come into Alaska.

Second, any GMO produce or food (including canned or frozen) that comes

into Alaska must be labeled. Once people are aware and they don’t buy well I would say you know “the rest of the story”.

It was my pilot! When he landed on the tiny airstrip tucked between the evergreens, as before, very few words were spoken. But this time, it was me who refused to say a word. All I wanted was out. I had enough of the loneliness and danger of wilderness living. It took me all of three minutes to stuff my sleeping bag and possessions in a duffel bag and toss it into the plane›s cargo bay. I was not about to let the man leave without me. I kept a close eye on

When I arrived home in Anchorage late that night twelve hours later, I was so thrilled to be back with family that it was as if I was dreaming. I didn›t turn off my light at bed time out of fear I would fall asleep, only to awaken and find myself stuck back in the Wrangell›s in my world of solitude. The following day--Christmas--was indeed real and my time with family proved to be one of the most special, memorable holidays I›ll always cherish. My time away caused me to greatly appreciate family.

It also drew me closer to God. It was a tough lesson to learn, but as I look back, I recognize how crucial it was to my maturity as a person.

Monsanto Continued

As Christmas day approached, I was resigned to being alone in my mountain prison camp, convinced the pilot was in no hurry to pick me up, and frankly, cared little about my safety or wellbeing. I was prepared to endure the entire winter if necessary. But suddenly, I heard the sound of a plane›s engine far in the distance. It grew louder until a Super Cub came into view.

him to make sure as there was no way I would be left behind this time.

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A single propane light hung from the ceiling with a crumbling wick which produced little light. The majority of my He then hopped in his Super Cub on skis time was spent struggling to stay warm. and off he went. Not a word about when I located a stand of dead trees, many he might return, leaving me wondering of which I felled. I used a horse to drag if I would ever see him again. Nor did he the logs back to the cabin. I then cut, offer encouragement or advice on how split and stacked the firewood that was to stay safe. I was an 18-year old kid who fed into the stove which I stoked every never should have been left alone in the three hours through the night. I tried to middle of nowhere. It borderlined cruel. draw strength from reading my pocket Bible from light flickering off cracks I stood in shock, seriously questioning around the door of the wood stove. The why I chose to put myself in such a 23rd Psalm provided the most comfort. ridiculously precarious position. I could hear the drone of his plane›s engine fade A week into my adventure, I was so off in the distance as cold engulfed me stressed that I arrived at a crossroads, and darkness descended. The sudden a defining moment where I basically quiet left me feeling the loneliest ever had to choose between life or death. in my short life, leaving me sick to my It was either get tough and convince stomach. In a near panic, I immediately myself I could survive--or give up in called out to God. My «fantasy» a panic and die. I chose to live. Once I outdoor experience instead turned out put myself in the right frame of mind to be more of a nightmare as most of that I would get through my ordeal, I

was immediately at ease and no longer struggled with anxiety, wondering if I would emerge with my life intact. It was as if I crossed a threshold as part of a transformation. An instantaneous metamorphosis. Right away, an eerie sense of calm came over me and I was finally in control of my emotions. Aside from a harrowing experience breaking through lake ice while on my trapline, I was fine.

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Politics

Community

Mardi Gras BowWow Ball Recap

By Ann Metts Aitken, Palmer

BACK ACRES started the night with Hank Williams’ classic line “Move over, little dog, cause the big dog is moving in” which grabbed the party goers and set the tone for the evening. The night just kept getting better.

Dark Lark Dancers swirled around and twirled throughout the night. Don Russell stumped the crowd with magic. Our MC surprised the crowd when he turned into a 6’3” brown dog mid evening.

Chef Beverly and Chef Mark created a buffet truly doing New Orleans and the Gulf Coast proud: Pecan encrusted pork medallions, fried catfish with Cajun remoulade sauce, praline yams, red beans and rice, corn machoux, andouille and chicken gumbo, and a peach cobbler to satisfy those with a sweet tooth. Great food and a great cause! Good combination.

Special appearances by Coco, Mischa, and Hershey gave us all an opportunity to give hugs and get some doggie kisses from former Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescued dogs who benefited from medical/veterinary care, who lived in foster families, and are happily living with their “forever after” families. A special thanks to Roxeanna, Wally, and Debbie for sharing their wonderful dogs with us and giving us all a chance to say “Hi” and catch up on their progress. We also enjoy hearing stories about their little personalities. Yes,

Roxeanna says Coco is still a “chowhound” which we figured was true but we just wanted to know for sure.

Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue is very proud of its mission to give second chances to dogs who need that extra special something so they can have a good life.

We have wonderful volunteers and foster families who take dogs to vet appointments, keep them calm when restricted movement is prescribed so they don’t re-injure themselves, help them learn to adapt to changes in mobility, help them get acquainted with e-collars, but most of all, give them love, love, love while they await their new adoptive home.

Our adoption fees don’t cover these costs which is why this fundraiser is so important! The community was so supportive in sponsoring, buying tickets and tables, bidding on auction items, and enjoying each other’s company. We raised over $17,000 this year and we still have some donations coming in.

SPECIAL THANKS to our Co-Sponsors Ohana Media Group and Dr. Mark E. Keller, Chugach Anesthesia, AK Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. & Mrs. Griffith Steiner, Jim and Leah Hagee, Sheila Jensen, Dr. Michelle Slezewski, Make A Scene and their advertisers, Christynne.com and the UPS Store Palmer.

I also thank all the Volunteers from Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue, Alaska Surgery Center, & friends of ADPR. The community support was awesome. We thank everyone who took time to join us in celebrating Mardi Gras while raising money for our rescued medical dogs.

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By Donna Turner, Owner Did you know that the Tuxedo has only been around for a little over 150 years or where it came from?

In the early 1900’s, a German fashion magazine wrote that after the tuxedo hit the market, the cutaway was a disrespected and even described as a second class garment for day wear.

Over two million men will be going to formal events this year. There are definite rules about what to wear and when.

Men’s formal wear consists of several basic, styling essentials including jacket, pants, shirt, tie, vest or cummerbund.

Knowledge of formal wear etiquette will help you in choosing the perfect attire for your event. (Semi-Formal vs.

Formal), (Daytime vs. Evening) and style (Traditional vs. Contemporary).

Grooms are becoming more flamboyant and creative in their selections and now stand out from their attendants just as the bride does from her attendants. In recent years, if the wedding theme is country or if the wedding party is wearing black jeans, some grooms have selected

the morning coat to polish the look. In recent years, black and white is not the only color for the Tuxedo. Today men have color choices such Dark Chocolate, White, Gray, Midnight Blue and Ivory.

Most guys are selecting a straight Windsor tie and vest instead of the traditional vest and bow tie to compliment their tuxedo.

However, cummerbunds are making a comeback. Years ago I was asked whether you wore the cummerbund with the pleats up or down. With some search I found that once upon a time men used to carry their opera tickets in their cummerbunds because the tuxedo jacket did not have pockets. Which means even today, pleats are to always be worn face up. Making sure you are dressed your best for your wedding, special event or prom has to be as perfect as you have always imagined.

(At least as perfect as your bride, wife or date has always imagined!)

More importantly, remember to buy black socks! (i.e.: white socks with a black tuxedo are really tacky and wool socks with red tops just doesn’t cut it either!)

Mar 2013

Pierre Lorillard’s family members were wealthy tobacco magnates who owned country property in Tuxedo Park, just outside of New York City. This is where James and Pierre met. James Brown Potter took the design back to the Tuxedo

Before the tuxedo was introduced and in terms of figure flattery, the morning coat which debut in 1748 was considered the most formal coat a man could wear.

The morning coat still is a very elegant garment. It has a unique, softly accented shape which stands apart from other formal garments. This ‘tailcoat’ is cut away on a curving line from the front of the body to the back, and hence it is often referred to as the Cutaway, especially in countries outside the UK. It is also known as the “Riding Coat”. (John F. Kennedy wore a morning coat when he married Jackie in September of 1953)

Despite its somewhat lowbrow roots, a few years later, the morning coat evolved into a garment that was a part of most gentlemen’s wardrobes. As The Habits of Good Society suggests: “There are four kinds of coats which a well-dressed man must have: a morning coat, a frock coat, a dress-coat, and an overcoat.

It was the summer of 1886, when James Brown Potter, a resident of Tuxedo Park, vacationed in England. Potter and his wife, Cora were introduced to the Prince of Wales {who later became King Edward VII} at a court ball in London. Potter asked the Prince for advice on formal dress. The Prince sent Potter to his own personal tailor; Henry Poole & Co. James was fitted with a short black jacket and black tie. This was unlike the formal tails with white tie that was then worn in the United States for formal occasions.

Club, where Lorillard modified it, named it, “The Tuxedo”, after Tuxedo Park. The Tuxedo became very popular during the autumn ball in 1886. The tuxedo caught on and to this day is the most fashionable formal wear garment for men.

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The Corner Link

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Visit www.MakeASceneAK.com

Mar 2013

The Crystal Mandala Ask about our classes on Saturday from 2-5pm

907-892 5562

Eastlake Mall, Big Lake

Tues-Sat 11am to 7pm Sunday 11am to 5pm

Spring Preparedness

when she lost her footing and fell into the ice cold water, quickly getting sucked downstream by the fast moving current.

Without a life jacket, she suddenly found herself fighting for her life.

“I was horrified at how fast everything happened. My poor husband was so shocked he just stood there for a minute not sure what to do.”

Fortunately for Dufour, instinct kicked in and he raced downstream to try and get ahead of his wife as she shot toward

clothes were all in the car more than an hour’s hike away.

Lucky for them, a ranger happened to be cruising the area and found the couple.

By the time Dufour and her husband were transported to the hospital, her core body temperature had dropped to 87 degrees and he was hovering around 90, both deemed moderate hypothermic.

“I learned a valuable lesson that day,” said Dufour. “If you’re going out, even for

By Debra McGhan Spring offers wonderful opportunities to ride the hills, tear across the fields and valleys of Alaska and burn out the last of the carbon before putting away your skis, sleds and boards for summer.

It’s also a great time to attend exciting events across the state like Tailgate Alaska (Valdez – March 29-April 7) Arctic Man Ski and Snowgo (Summit Lake – April 10-14) and the Mountain Man Hill Climb (Thompson Pass – April 19-21.)

But it seems every spring we also too often face the cruel reality that sometimes not being prepared can be tragic.

Monica Dufour of Anchorage learned that lesson when she and her family set out for a weekend outing in Hatcher Pass last spring, excited to enjoy the unseasonably warm spring day.

Once in the pass, they decided to take a hike across the patches of snow still covering the ground to stretch their legs and explore.

They had traveled a little more than an hour from the car and were soaking in

the warm sunshine when they made a tragic mistake.

“We decided to hike down to the Little Susitna River because the water was flowing and with the ice dams breaking up, it just looked beautiful,” she explained. “I was planning to snap some photos but what I didn’t realize is just how slippery the rocks are near the water.”

Dufour was in for a startling surprise

a drop off. Grabbing onto a small tree for balance, he managed toreach out and snag her jacket stopping her from plunging over the fall. Pulling her to shore, the couple collapsed in exhaustion on the rocky bank.

“I was so cold I couldn’t stop shivering.

My whole body was just convulsing.”

That’s when Dufour realized, they hadn’t brought anything with them on their hike. Their lunch, water, and extra

a short time, take at least basic survival gear with you because anything can happen.”

The North America Outdoor Institute has a host of training opportunities, from avalanche and snowmobile safety to wilderness medical to Alaska’s wild plants, on tap across the state.

You’ll find a full-day training course at the Houston Fire Department on

Continues on page 39

Community

Spring Preparedness Cont.

Saturday, March 23rd from 11am to 4pm. This program, made possible by the Alaska Dept. of Public Safety, will include a variety of field activities for those looking to learn or brush up on their skills. Bring your avalanche transceiver and safety gear or borrow ours.

If you’re thinking more about spring, visit us on Sunday, March 24th at the Mat-Su Outdoor Show (Menard Sports Center) for a workshop on Alaska’s Wild Plants.

From the hard-core backcountry enthusiast looking for an avalanche level 1 to the weekend rider just wanting to learn the basics, we can help you find it all.

We have partnered with the Alaska Avalanche Information Center for a host

of free and low-cost avalanche training programs offered in Thompson Pass and the Girdwood area.

We are offering Wilderness First Aid and Wilderness First Response (WFA and WFR) courses certified by SOLO. These are interactive, fast-paced, experiential courses that let you practice the skills learned and experience firsthand, the challenges that could be faced in the wilderness.

Before you set out for your adventures this spring learn to Be Snow Smart and medically savvy so that you can live to ride another day.

For more information, a full schedule of NAOI courses and to register, visit us online at BeSnowSmart.org or call 907376-2898 to learn more

> An NAOI instructor demonstrates swift water rescue techniques in Hatcher Pass.

L A U N N A D 3R

Who Let The Girls Out v3.0 >>

You’re

Invited!

S MOTORCYCLE

G WINE TASTIN CHOCOLATE TASTING ART, MOSAIC POKER RUN BEER TASTING

CLOTHING EXCHANGE OTS GLAMOUR SH ANTIQUES N HORSE DRAW ES CARRIAGE RID GARDENING MUSIC

FASHION

OR CONTESTS, DO E !!

P R IZ E S & M O R

Who? You & Everyone You Know!

DOWNTOWN PALMER MERCHANTS invite you to

KICK CABIN FEVER...

EMBRACE SPRING FEVER!

!

E R A P M R L ALL OVE !

Y A D L L A 2 & H H T 7 T R 6 2 A M > > SAT, Friday, March 26th

The Valley Women's Running Team will kick off the season with a Fun Run....Walk.

Gazing and Grazing (hors d 'ouvres around town, tied in with fabulous art.)

Saturday, March 27th

We will have music, art for looking and art for doing, chocolate, fashion, food for eating and food for creating, cribbage and scrabble competition, horse drawn carriage rides, wine, a poker run, outdoor activities, classes, self-care, glam shots, antiques and WAY more.