PAGE 3
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com SEPT 2016
PAGE 4
Non-Profit Directory Families & Children:
Non-Profit Organization? Join our growing list for as little as $15.00/mo! Non-Profit’s Help Our Community!
www.makeasceneak.com/nonprofitdirectory Families & Children: Family Promise Mat-Su
www.familypromisematsu.com (907) 357-6160 A community response for families without housing. Family Promise Mat-Su, “FPMS” uses area churches for shelter while providing meals and case management to help homeless families move back into housing and self-sustainability. In addition we provide state funds(BHAP) for homeless prevention.
OTHER Mat-Su Health Services, Inc.
SEPT 2016
www.mshsak.org (907) 376-2411 Dedicated to improving the health of our community, one person at a time – through affordable medical, dental and behavioral health care.The clinic is a Federally qualified Health Care Center and we accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most other third-party insurances. For those who qualify, there is a sliding scale payment, based on household income. We offer early morning and evening appointments appointment. You can also contact our 24/7 behavioral crisis intervention line by calling the main number: 376-2411.
ARTS:
Families & Children:
March of Dimes Alaska Chapter
Valley Arts Alliance
March of Dimes Alaska Chapter
www.marchofdimes.org/alaska (907) 276-4111 Join the March of Dimes for our annual High Heels for High Hopes this fall. To become a model or participant, call 276-4111. The March of Dimes helps moms have fullterm pregnancies and healthy babies. And if something goes wrong, we offer information and comfort to families. We research the problems that threaten our babies and work on preventing them. About 4 million babies were born in the United States last year, and the March of Dimes helped each and every one through research, education, vaccines and breakthroughs. The March of Dimes: working together for stronger, healthier babies.
www.ValleyArtsAlliance.com Valley Arts Alliance, bringing the community together through the arts... We are a place for both new and established artists of all types—painters, sculptors, musicians, and those involved in the performing arts—to network and to experiment with new ideas and media. We work with local libraries, schools, museums, art councils, and music and art groups to create more venues for the arts, and to help promote art related events. Join us at our informal weekly meetings, every Thursday @ 11 at Sophia’s Cafe, 9191 E Frontage Road, Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. Check out our archives www.ValleyArtsAlliance.com
Mat-Su Health Foundation healthymatsu.org (907) 352-2863 The Mat-Su Health Foundation offers financial and strategic support to wellmanaged 501(c)(3) organizations that offer services and practical solutions to significant health-related problems impacting the citizens of the Mat-Su Borough. The foundation also offers academic and vocational scholarships to Mat-Su residents who wish to pursue health and wellness related careers.
Pets & Animals: Alaska Animal Advocates www.alaskaanimaladvocates.com (907) 841-3173 Alaska Animal Advocates is a non-profit group of dedicated volunteers who are devoted to enriching the lives of companion animals in Alaska. In order to do this, we will place homeless pets in loving environments, address medical concerns, spay or neuter, microchip, vaccinate, and offer training as is needed. We believe that every animal deserves a loving home, for his/her entire life and Alaska Animal Advocates will provide the resources to make this happen. In order to make this mission possible, we need the help of volunteers and foster homes.
www.marchofdimes.org/alaska (907) 276-4111 The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. About 4 million babies were born in the United States last year, and the March of Dimes helped each and every one through research, education, vaccines and breakthroughs. The March of Dimes: working together for stronger, healthier babies.
HOMELESS YOUTH: Mat-Su Youth Housing (MY HOUSE)
CONSERVATION: Valley Community for Recycling Solutions www.valleyrecycling.org (907) 745-5544 It’s not just for hippies anymore! Everyone in the Mat-Su valley can recycle. Drop your stuff off Tues – Fri 10:30 to 6 and Sat 10:30 to 3:30. Recycle cardboard, magazines, this newspaper and more at your community recycling center. Remember to REDUCE, REUSE, and then RECYCLE! We are located at 9465 E Chanlyut Circle, next to the MSB Animal Shelter at the MSB Central Landfill. Volunteer opportunities available. Make a difference in your community! Check out our website for details www.valleyrecycling.org - Call us at 907.745.5544 with questions or comments.
myhousematsu.org (907) 373-4357 MY House is a homeless youth drop in center with two for-profit businesses that train and employ homeless youth. Gathering Grounds Cafe is a coffee shop with homemade soups, sandwiches, salads and baked goods. Steamdriven is a trendy thrift shop featuring Steampunk items made from repurposed donations by our youth designers. Fiend2Clean and Young People in Recovery offer support for substance abuse recovery with activities and events. We offer transitional housing for qualified 18-24 year olds, Outreach services to connect homeless youth, organizations and groups to services, and access to Public Health and NineStar job/education services on site.
SOCIAL ADVOCACY: Wasilla Homeless-Committee
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES: Mat-Su Regional Adult Basic Education (Nine Star) MatsuAdultEd@ninestar.com (907) 373-7833 Mat-Su ABE provides basic education in math, language arts and English as a second language (ESL), aiming to raise student skills beyond the high-school level in order to pass tests like the GED, enter training programs or college, and advance on the job. Enrollment is open to all adult residents of Alaska, yearround. Youth Employment for ages 16-24 not in school -- get a job, keep a job, advance on the job. Nine Star 300 N Willow 373-3006 (in the MYHouse building)
www.wasillahomeless-committee.org (907) 521-2949 Wasilla Homeless-Committee is a 100% volunteer organization funded by private donations and regular fundraising events. Our sole purpose is to assist the homeless, those at risk of homelessness, and others who do not meet the criteria for help that is required by other advocacy agencies in the valley. Wasilla Homeless-Committee provides case management, housing search assistance, move in assistance, job search assistance, clothing, furniture, help with transportation, and resource guidance for homeless and disenfranchised in the Mat-Su Valley. Visit our website for application, or call 907521-2949. Find us on Facebook facebook.com/ wasillahomelesscommitteepage
FRIENDS FALL USED BOOK SALE September 16-20, 2016 - 10AM Friends of Wasilla Public Library American Legion Susitna Valley Post 35, Wasilla FREE Admission - (907) 352-3763 www.wasillafriends.org FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL SPECIAL EDITION 9/16/2016 - 11AM Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Farm, Palmer Cost: $6 - (907) 745-4511 info@pppfarm.net www.pppfarm.net
Fireside Books Turkey Red Restaurant, Palmer Cost: $30 - (907) 745-2665 barbara@goodbooksbadcoffee. com www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com MOONLIT MILES BIKE RIDE 9/17/2016 - 7PM Valley Mountain Bikers & Hikers Government Peak Rec Area, Palmer FREE Event trailhead@vmbah.org AN EVENING WITH ANN COULTER 9/17/2016 - 7:30PM Steel Head Productions LLC Egan Convention Center, Anchorage Cost: $42-$95 - (907) 947-7344 mike@robbinsalaska.com www.steelheadproductions.com THE SUPER SATURATED SUGAR STRINGS 9/18/2016 - 4PM The Musk Ox Farm, Palmer Tickets: $20 In Advance, $25 At Door www.muskoxfarm.org
ART WORKSHOP: PERSONAL QUOTE TO PERSONAL IMAGE 9/17/2016 - 9:30AM Enhanced Well Being Thru Expressive Art, Wasilla Cost: $25 - (907) 460-8481 EnhancedWellBeingAK@gmail.com
UNTOLD STORIES 9/18/2016 - 6PM Palmer Museum of History & Art Palmer Train Depot Tickets: $15 Adults, $10 Students www.palmermuseum.org
CERTIFIED COMPOSTER TRAINING 9/17/2016 - 10AM Mat-Su Borough Division of Solid Waste Mat-Su Borough Central Landfill, Palmer FREE Event, Please Register - (907) 861-7605 compost@matsugov.us www.goodearthgardenschool.com ALASKA EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EXPO 9/17/2016 - 10AM Matanuska Susitna Borough Emergency Planning Committee Menard Sports Center, Wasilla FREE Event - (907) 841-1674 heather.ridge@matsugov.us www.2016emergencypreparednes sexpo.eventbrite.com BREWFEST 2016 9/17/2016 - 2PM Northern Susitna Institute Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, Talkeetna Cost: $55 - (907) 733-7929 www.denaliartscouncil.org
LGBTQ ALASKAN STORIES & POETRY: DINNER WITH AUTHORS & READERS 9/17/2016 - 6PM
CHERRY BLOSSOMS: PAINTING CLASS 9/21/2016 - 6PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $35 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com NEW WASILLA PUBLIC LIBRARY RIBBON CUTTING 9/22/2016 - 2PM Wasilla Public Library FREE Event - (907) 376-5913 library@ci.wasilla.ak.us www.cityofwasilla.com MAT-SU TRANSPORTATION FAIR 9/22/2016 - 4PM Brooks & Associates Alaska State Fairgrounds, Raven Hall FREE Event - (907) 346-0506 comments.brooksalaska@gmail. com matsutranspofair.blogspot.com IF4’S THE COSTA RICA CHALLENGE 9/22/2016 - 6PM Glenn Massay Theater, Palmer Cost: $5 - (907) 746-9300 gmt@matsu.alaska.edu www.glennmassaytheater.com INTERNATIONAL FLY FISHING FILM FESTIVAL 9/22/2016 - 7:30PM
AUTUMN EQUINOX MEDICINE WHEEL CELEBRATION 9/24/2016 - 4PM Good Earth Garden School Artemisia Acres, Palmer FREE Event - (907) 745-0758 ellen.vandevisse@matsugov.us www.goodearthgardenschool.com
BREAST HEALTH MONTH: BREAST THERMAL IMAGING SPECIAL All October All About Herbs, Wasilla Cost: $99 - (907) 376-8327 WOMEN’S SERENITY CIRCLE 10/1/2016 - 11AM Serenity Grows Midnight Sun Yoga Center, Palmer FREE Event - (907) 947-7722 www.serenitygrows.com
KITTY MORSE “AN EVENING AT THE KASBAH” MOROCCAN DINNER 9/24/2016 - 6PM Fireside Books Turkey Red Restaurant, Palmer Cost: $35 - (907) 745-2665 barbara@goodbooksbadcoffee. com www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com
WASILLA PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP 10/1/2016 - 12PM Learn to Shoot Alaska & Cherish The Moments Cherish The Moments, Wasilla Cost: $60 - (907) 841-1341 Rachelle@CherishTheMomentsAK. com Check us out on Facebook
MARCH OF DIMES: HIGH HEELS FOR HIGH HOPES 9/24/2016 - 7PM March of Dimes Glenn Massay Theater, Palmer Tickets: $50 General, $125 Reserved gmt@matsu.alaska.edu www.glennmassaytheater.com
BIRTH ART CLASS 10/1/2016 - 1PM Serenity Grows Midnight Sun Yoga Center, Palmer Cost: $45 - (907) 947-7722 www.serenitygrows.com
AK COMEDY TOUR NIGHT OF STAND UP COMEDY 9/24/2016 - 7:30PM Denali Arts Council Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, Talkeetna Cost: $10 DAC Members, $12 General www.denaliartscouncil.org BLOWN AWAY: PAINTING CLASS 9/25/2016 - 12PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $35 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com PAINTED WINE GLASSES: PAINTING CLASS 9/25/2016 - 4PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $40 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com LOVE IS TWEET: PAINTING CLASS 9/27/2016 - 6PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $35 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com SUNSET MOOSE: PAINTING CLASS 9/28/2016 - 6PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $35 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com
OXTOBERFEST 10/1/2016 - 4:30PM Musk Ox Farm & Alaska Farm Land Trust Musk Ox Farm, Palmer Cost: $50 - (907) 745-4151 info@muskoxfarm.org www.muskoxfarm.org FAT CAT: PAINTING CLASS 10/2/2016 - 4PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $35 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com AK TUESDAY NIGHT FIGHTS SEASON OPENER 10/4/2016 - 7:45PM AK Tuesday Night Fights, Wasilla Tickets: $15-$65 www.aktuesdaynightfights.com AURORA MOOSE: PAINTING CLASS 10/5/2016 - 6PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $35 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com FALL OPEN HOUSE October 6-8, 2016 - 10AM The Boardwalk Shop, Wasilla FREE Admission - (907) 357-8980 Check us out on Facebook CERTIFIED COMPOSTER TRAINING 10/8/2016 - 10AM Mat-Su Borough Division of Solid Waste Mat-Su Borough Central Landfill, Palmer FREE Event, Please Register - (907)
861-7605 compost@matsugov.us www.goodearthgardenschool.com 2ND SATURDAY BEER MEETS CANVAS 10/8/2016 - 2PM Arkose Brewery, Palmer Cost: $35 - (907) 746-2337 www.arkosebrewery.com ROTARY UNCORKED “BOOTS & BLING” 10/8/2016 - 6PM Menard Sports Center, Wasilla Cost: $65 joni@travelservicesinc.com www.rotaryuncorked.akmobi.org ALASKA HOME COMPANION: A FRONTIER VARIETY SHOW 10/8/2016 - 7PM Valley Arts Alliance Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry, Wasilla Cost: $15 www.valleyartsalliance.com PUMPKIN PATCH: PAINTING CLASS 10/9/2016 - 11AM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $35 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com A HAUNTING WE WILL GO: PAINTING CLASS 10/9/2016 - 3PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $40 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com VBR LOCAL CONVENTION 10/12/2016 - 8AM Valley Board of Realtors Settlers Bay Lodge, Wasilla FREE Event - (907) 376-5081 www.valleyboardofrealtors.org DATE NIGHT: PAINTING CLASS 10/12/2016 - 6PM Paintastic Painting Parties, Wasilla Cost: $70 - (907) 227-7115 www.paintasticpaintingparties. com WORDPRESS WEBSITE DESIGN WORKSHOP October 14-15, 2016 - 9AM Out of a Jam and Sound Web Solutions, Palmer Cost: $499 - (907) 745-2015 manager@outofajam.net www.soundwebsolutions.net BEAR MOUNTAIN GRILL LADIES NIGHT OUT SHOPPING EVENT 10/14/2016 - 5PM Bear Mountain Grill, Eagle River FREE Admission - (907) 694-5585 Check us out on Facebook KVRF RADIO STATION FUNDRAISER 10/14/2016 - 6PM KVRF Radio Free Palmer Klondike Mikes, Palmer Cost: $10 - (907) 745-8900 rbash102@gmail.com www.radiofreepalmer.org
SEPT 2016
LGBTQ ALASKAN STORIES & POETRY BOOK-SIGNING 9/17/2016 - 4PM Fireside Books, Palmer FREE Event - (907) 745-2665 barbara@goodbooksbadcoffee. com www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com
TOASTMASTERS Begins 9/20/2016, Occurs Every Tuesday - 6:50PM Toastmasters International, Palmer FREE Event www.palmer.toastmastersclubs. org
ALASKA MUSIC & ARTS GRAND OPENING 9/24/2016 - 2PM Alaska Music & Arts, Palmer FREE Event - (907) 745-4001 Check us out on Facebook
HARVEST RECYCLE FEST 2016 9/30/2016 - 7PM Valley Community for Recycling Solutions Palmer Train Depot Tickets: $50 Each, $75 For Two www.valleyrecycling.org
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
FALL EQUINOX GLOW BALL GOLF TOURNAMENT 9/16/2016 - 7:30PM Settlers Bay Golf Course, Wasilla Cost: $40-$75 - (907) 376-5466 www.settlersbay.com
Glenn Massay Theater, Palmer Cost: $15 - (907) 746-9300 gmt@matsu.alaska.edu www.glennmassaytheater.com
PAGE 5
HARVEY September 9-October 2, 2016 Fridays & Saturdays @7PM, Sundays @2PM Valley Performing Arts, Wasilla Cost: $18 Students/Seniors, $20 Adults www.valleyperformingarts.org
PAGE 6
Arts Contributed by Alice Palen Art has the power to enhance well-being. Anyone who wants to express themselves in art has the capacity to do so. It’s a matter of listening to your inner voice, focusing on its message and allowing words and images to emerge that capture the message.
is a word the ancient Ainu people of Japan used to name berries. They called them gifts at the end of branches. When I went berry picking I was presented with Haskap, and was reminded of my gratitude for nature’s bounty and the small beautiful things in my life.
With a little instruction in using art materials an individual can create a personal image that captures the uniqueness of their thoughts and feelings. Engagement in the art process is gratifying in itself. The resulting image provides an object to reflect upon, remembering the inner voice and expanding on its message. All this leads to enhanced well-being. I have been using this process to explore favorite quotes that have inspired and comforted me. “Gifts at the end of branches… Alpine fields hold blueberries to pick.” This is a quote I developed myself. It emerged from something I read on a label of Haskap Jam and from my joy in finding small beauties in nature. Haskap
SEPT 2016
Contributed by Tina Larkin, Visual Artist and Musician What the heck is synesthesia? It literally means the joining of the senses. Some people can hear colors or see music, and right here in the Mat-Su Valley is Tina Larkin, a visual artist, musician and teacher who can do just that.
“I shall be telling this with a sigh… Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” from The Road Not Taken, by Robert Frost. This quote captures my thoughts and feelings about choices I have made that have led to both gratification and uncertainties. It helps me resolve longing for the roads not taken and questioning
“The first time I heard the Beatles song, She Loves You, I said out loud, “Wow, what a pretty, red song”, and got yelled at for being weird. I therefore learned at an early age to not talk about the fact that I can see music and hear color. Once I went off to college and began art school, this neurological phenomenon became an asset.” Vagabond Blues in Palmer is hosting two synesthetic events this month and next.
the ones I have taken. Expressive Art to Enhance Well-Being is a series of workshops where I guide individuals through the process of focusing to hear their inner voices, journaling to clarify thoughts and feelings and art making to express them in their own personal ways. We use dry media - pastels, colored pencils and collage - to create a personal image. Instruction in use of media and materials is provided. Developing a personal expression in art is emphasized over artistic skill. Participants have been amazed at how their images reflect inner thoughts and feelings, and how this has enhanced their sense of well-being. Workshops will be held on the 3rd Saturday of the month, 9:30-Noon in Wasilla. The next one is “Transform a Favorite Quote into a Personal Image” on Saturday, September 17. “Explore Life Transitions in Images of Doors and Windows” will be on Oct. 15. “Express Gratitude in Cards to Others and to Yourself!” will be on Nov. 19. Also, in November, I will be the Featured Artist on Second Saturday at AK Frayed Knot in Palmer. We will explore weaving
September 10 - October 14: Art Exhibit of Larkin’s mixed medium art created with music. October 8, 7pm: A Concert of Visual Music with Tina Larkin on harp, fiddle, ukulele and with special guests Shonti Elder, fiddle and Naomi Stamoolis, oboe. This family friendly concert will offer a few audience participation surprises as well, so don’t miss it! Sponsored by the Palmer Arts Council.
as a metaphor for integrating the complexities of ourselves and our lives. Come to the workshops with a desire to explore. No artistic experience is needed, honest. You can express yourself in art! A Word About Me: I am inspired by the small beauties that surround me and the power of art to enhance my own well-being and that of others. My formal art training was at the University of New Mexico where I earned a Bachelor’s Of Fine Art, cum laude. I am a counselor with a master’s degree in counseling from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. I have provided opportunities for individuals to enhance their well-being through expressive art and have used it with groups including victims of domestic violence, individuals struggling with recovery from substance addiction and youth in foster care. I look forward to sharing the experience of enhancing well-being through expressive art with you. For more information or to register for a workshop, text or phone me at 907 460-8481, or send an email to EnhancedWellBeingAK@gmail.com.
When she is not performing or making art, Tina Larkin owns and operates the Larkin Music and Art Studio, where she teaches fiddle, violin, harp, ukulele, and guitar and also offers art classes to folks of all ages. For more information, call 513-305-0476 or go to website, www.tinalarkin.net
PRESS RELEASE UAA Concert Board is proud to announce the 23nd Annual A Cappella Festivella, featuring Blue Jupiter on Thursday, October 6, 2016, at 7:30pm in the Williamson Auditorium. A Cappella Festivella is a part of UAA Homecoming Week.
(under 17), and $20 for general public. All ticket prices are $5 more at the door. Tickets go on sale Friday, September 16 at 12:00pm. Tickets will be available online at uaatix.com or in person at the UAA Student Union Information Desk. For more information or to arrange an interview, contact Zac Clark, Concert Board Coordinator, at (907) 786-1210 or mzclark@uaa.alaska.edu.
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Blue Jupiter’s all-vocal performance is nothing short of explosive. Blue Jupiter’s energetic blend of pop lead vocals, jazzy a cappella harmony and funky beatbox has garnered standing ovations in over 40 states and around the world. Blue Jupiter was recently featured on NBC’s The SingOff Live Tour.
PAGE 7
Entertainment
Opening for Blue Jupiter at this year’s A Cappella Festivella is BYU’s newest a cappella group, Noteworthy. Noteworthy’s nine female voices deliver a power-packed concert that combines vocal percussion, humor, and a tight harmony style that’s all their own. Noteworthy has appeared on NBC’s hit television show The Sing-Off and has also been crowned ICCA (International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella) champion in 2007. Tickets are $5 for UAA students, $15 for UAA staff, faculty, alumni and youth
Dance
Learn to square dance with the Paws and Taws Square Dance Club, and with Gary Feaster as the square dance caller. First lesson is free.
VARIETY. GOT IT. WE
Call (907) 631-0944 or 745-4914 for more information.
MAT-SU 365-7384 Wasilla • Palmer
THEALASKACLUB.COM
SEPT 2016
Classes start on Friday, September 16th and continues through December 2016, ending with a graduation ceremony. Each class is from 7-9pm and are located at the United Protestant Presbyterian Church, 713 S. Denali St. Palmer.
PAGE 8
Arts
Contributed by Janet St. George, Town Square Art Gallery Barbara Lavallee fans eagerly await her annual art show and signing at Town Square Art Gallery in Wasilla. Join Barbara as she signs new art prints, old favorites, children’s books and her ever-popular calendars on Saturday, Oct. 8th from noon to 3pm for a very special Second Saturday event.
SEPT 2016
Barbara Lavallee, a native of Davenport, Iowa, grew up in Wisconsin and received a degree in art from Illinois Wesleyan University. After teaching art in Arizona on a Navajo Indian reservation, she took a position at Mount Edgecumbe High School in Sitka, Alaska in 1970. There were no village high schools at that time, so the boarding school served students from all over the state. Her experiences teaching there enabled her to see village life through the eyes of her students and exposed her to the various Native cultures of Alaska.
Her stylized artwork celebrates the joy, resilience and work ethics that characterizes the Native lifestyle. Now living in downtown Anchorage, Lavallee paints prolifically with many originals reproduced into limited edition prints. In addition, she has also become nationally known as an illustrator of children’s books. In collaboration with author Vicki Cobb, Lavallee has traveled to exotic locales like Brazil, Peru, Australia and Japan to bring back images portrayed in the “Imagine Living Here” series of books. Additionally, she illustrated “Snow Child” for Scholastic Press and the award winning “Mama, Do You Love Me?”, receiving the coveted 1991 Golden Kite Award for the Society of Children’s Book Writers for excellence in illustration Lavallee is known for her happy people. People working, playing and living with smiles on their faces. Her watercolors portray whimsical, stylized characters in vibrant colors reflecting her interest in people. “I prefer to portray the magnificence of man... his joy and humor, his tenacity, his ability to overcome,” she says.
A happy Eskimo child hides in the closet peeking out from under her mother’s parka, a Native dancer moving to the century-old music of a walrus drum or a hot tub full of friends on a snowy winter evening are just a few of the images Barbara has offered in her popular watercolors. A single mother, Barbara credits her two sons, Chip and Mark, with adding immensely to the wealth of experiences and memories from which she derives a lot of the humor found in her characters. “They also shared the roller coaster ride of mom making a living as a freelance artist.” Lavallee can’t imagine her life without painting. “I want people to have fun. If people look and smile, then I feel the art is a success.” Please stop by Town Square Art Gallery located in the Carrs Wasilla Mall (next to Alaska Cleaners), on Saturday, Oct. 8th from noon to 3 and meet Alaska’s favorite artist, Barbara Lavallee. Refreshments will be served. Advance orders accepted in person or by calling 907.376.0123 - for more information visit townsquareartgallery.com
Contributed by Carmen Summerfield
Coming to you Saturday, October 8, from the historic Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry (MATI) next to Wasilla International Airport, the 2016 Premier Episode of The Alaska Home Companion: A Frontier Variety Show! MATI is our favorite Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry. The Alaska Home Companion: A Frontier Variety Show is the Valley Arts Alliance rendition of a live radio broadcast from the golden age of radio with skits, music and dance acts, similar to the popular Prairie Home Companion radio show on NPR.
The 2016 season is our fifth year producing The Alaska Home Companion: A Frontier Variety Show, and we will continue with new music and dance acts, occasional impersonations of local celebrities and will be occasionally broadcast live by Radio Free Palmer on 89.5 FM. So mark your calendar! The Wasilla episode of the Valley Arts Alliance Alaska Home Companion: A Frontier Variety Show will be broadcast at 7pm on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry in Wasilla. Tickets are $15 and are available at the door. A cash bar will be open during the event.
Coming to you Saturday, October 8, from the historic Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry (MATI) next to Wasilla International Airport, the 2016 Premier Episode of The Alaska Home Companion: A Frontier Variety Show!
The Sutton episode of the Valley Arts Alliance Alaska Home Companion: A Frontier Variety Show will be broadcast at 7pm on Saturday, November 12, 2016 at the Sutton Public Library. Suggested donation is $15. To see exciting scenes of these episodes, visit our archive pages at: ValleyArtsAlliance.com
SEPT 2016
For those of you who haven’t seen or heard one of our episodes, The Alaska Home Companion: A Frontier Variety Show features interesting stories by Alaskans about the best, the worst and the silliest of everyday living in Alaska.
In previous episodes, we heard from Guy d’North, Mom and Louie and Between 2 Berms, as well as news from Lake Willowa and Mukluk Radio.
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Would you like to hear stories about the best, the worst and the silliest of everyday living in Alaska?
PAGE 9
Entertainment
page 10 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com SEPT 2016
Arts, Faith
PRESS RELEASE In preparation for the Jewish new year, Mat-Su borough families will explore Jewish tradition by crafting their very own ram’s horn instrument, known as the shofar, at Mat-Su Jewish Center’s “Shofar Factory” workshop on September 25th, 2:00pm and 4:00 pm at Crossroads Center, 3060 N Lazy Eight Ct. #13 in Wasilla. Open to the public, this event aims to cultivate educational and cultural awareness and to promote diversity and tolerance. The children (with appropriate adult supervision) will help to cure, measure, saw, drill and polish a real ram’s horn to transform it into a working shofar instrument. When the horns are complete, participants will learn how to perform the traditional sequence of notes sounded on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. This unique event brings families together for a hands-on, exciting educational journey exploring the history and significance of the holiday and the shofar. The shofar is the central symbol of Rosh Hashanah, which is celebrated near the beginning of each fall. Synagogues blast the shofar every day for a month leading up to the holiday, culminating with a sequence of 100 blasts during the Rosh Hashanah services, which take place this year on October 3rd and October 4th. The cry of the shofar is a call to reflect on the past year and to make resolutions to continue improving as individuals and a community in the coming year.
According to Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a new year for all mankind. It is the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve, the first man and woman, and their first actions toward the realization of mankind’s role in this world. “Studies have shown that children absorb more when they are actively engaged in the educational process, than simply listening to a lecture in the classroom,” remarked Director Rabbi, Mendy Greenberg. “This is why the Mat-Su Jewish Center has instituted ‘Living Legacy’ workshops, which offer a multi-sensory approach to Jewish learning. Our goal is to encourage families to enjoy and appreciate our culture by offering fun and positive educational experiences. In the case of the ram’s horn, we hope the activity will encourage exploration and practice of the Jewish New Year.” The event is made up of two parts: a free demo and a hands-on workshop. It is $15 per shofar kit and is open to the entire community. The Mat-Su Jewish Center wishes the entire borough a Shanah Tovah - a sweet new year. Event Recap: What: Shofar Factory Where: Crossroads Center, 3060 N Lazy Eight Ct. #13 in Wasilla (corner of Bogard and Seldon) When: Sunday, September 25th – 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm Cost: $15 per shofar kit
About Rosh Hashanah: Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is observed this year on the eve of October 2nd through October 4th. Literally meaning “head of the year”, the twoday holiday commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday. For more information about Rosh Hashanah, visit: MatSuJewishCenter.org/HighHolidays. About The Sponsoring Organization The Mat-Su Jewish Center offers Jewish education, outreach and socialservice programming for families and individuals of all ages, backgrounds and affiliations. For more information, contact the Mat-Su Jewish Center at 3501787, rabbi@matsujewishcenter.org or visit www.MatsuJewishCenter.org.
The total cost for the new library building is $15 million. Special thanks goes to the voters of Wasilla, who passed a 1 cent sales tax increase which began January 1, 2014, and ran through December 31, 2015, at the time when $15 million was available through a combination of sales tax collections and donated funds from other organizations and sources.
“Through the sales tax, capital campaign and generous donations this library truly belongs to both the
The new library building would not be possible without the support of the City of Wasilla: the MatanuskaSusitna Borough with support from the Matanuska-Susitna School Board, the state of Alaska, the Rasmuson Foundation. the Foraker Group and the Mat-Su Health Foundation to purchase health related library materials or the approximately 400 community businesses and individual supporters who have made generous contributions to the new library building’s Capital Campaign, which is ongoing until December. The Wasilla Library has been serving the greater Wasilla community for over seventy-eight years. Founded with a collection of ninetyone books by the Wasilla Library Association on January 23, 1938, the library has been housed in its current building on Main Street since 1978. The association transferred its library holdings, ownership and property of the library to the City of Wasilla in 1986.
SEPT 2016
“It has been the vision of the Friends of the Wasilla Public Library that the new facility will be a center of the community; a beautiful place for people to come together to learn and celebrate the joy of learning. It has been central to this project to include the community in building this library,” stated Jeanne Troshynski, Friends of Wasilla Public Library President.
residents of Wasilla and the residents of the Mat-Su Borough who shop here.”
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
The ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Wasilla Public Library building will take place on Thursday, 9/22/2016, at 2:00pm at the new library building, located at 500 North Crusey Street in downtown Wasilla.
PAGE 11
Library
PAGE 12
Literature PRESS RELEASE Release date September 14, 2016 from Solstice Publishing by Bruce Lee Bond, author of Treasures of the Night, The Broken Coast and Girls Gone South from Montag Press.
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Torn from reality and stretching from the bowels of Spenard, mansions on the
hillside and abandoned mines in the Talkeetna Mountains, Bruce Lee Bond’s The Babysitter rips the covers off an Alaskan underworld that has thrived since the gold rush. From escort services that control underage girls through violence, drugs and deception, through after hours joints and strip clubs, follow the drug
Coming from Solstice Publishing on Amazon Prime on September 14, or get an autographed copy from the author at the Alaska Writers Conference Sept. 23-24 at the Alaska Airlines Center.
Music & Arts Contributed by Jeffrey L. Sponsler
through high end JBL studio monitors.
Have you ever had one of those days where you want to turn off the left brain and turn on the right hemisphere? You want to ax the algebra and cut out the calculus, lose the logic of Aristotle and Plato, shut down the sine waves and punt the Pythagorean Theorem. You instead want to engage your inner Baryshnikov, properly align your Chakras, bang out some Bruce Lee moves, and magnify your secret Mozart. Well the time has come to make the switch.
The dance studio has two rooms. Each room is 2000 square feet of maple hardwood floors, mirrors and dance bars. The ceilings are 14 feet high and each room has its own personal heating/cooling system.
A new facility, the Alaska Music and Arts (AMA) complex, is having a grand opening September 24, 2016 from 2 to 5pm.
SEPT 2016
trade, corrupt cops and unsolved killings as a secret war rages in the long night, leaving corpses in mine shafts and dismembered bodies in Turnagain Arm.
There will be food and demonstrations of dance and martial arts. A tour of the new, state of the art music recording studio will be part of the day. The complex consists of two main buildings, the recording studio and the dance studio. The recording studio has sound-proof doors and walls, 4 isolation booths, a Ludwig kit, stacks of synthesizers and brand new API 1608 automated analog mixer. Your band’s mix can be auditioned
The complex can be seen at: www.alaskamusic.org and if you want to, you can register as a member and sign up for Shotokan karate classes, yoga classes (by Antiqua), ballet/dance classes (through Sonja’s School of Dance). The karate classes have previously been taught at the Alaska Club and club students are welcome to train at the AMA. Telephone is (907) 745-4001. The opening will feature live music and pizza. So jack yourself into the matrix, accelerate the creative part of your brain and come see our fine new facility. This new complex is sponsored by the Alaska Brain Center neurology clinic.
SUBMIT YOUR OWN EVENTS & ARTICLES ON OUR WEBSITE
A new facility, the Alaska Music and Arts (AMA) complex, is having a grand opening September 24, 2016 from 2 to 5pm.
page 13
Heartfelt entrance to a land of candy, my young mind was completely transported. Yet Mr. Wonka seemed to be back in the real world, while guiding me into this fantasy. Unimpressed with the brightly colored, edible Eden, Wonka just sat back feigning interest. Contributed by Josh Fryfogle
Hearing of his passing, I think of those songs in that movie. “Pure Imagination” is a masterpiece of pop culture. A perfect
Each indulgence was offset by Charlie’s heart. He was always too amazed - as was I watching the movie - at the spectacle of it all, to let reality get in the way of his
His drab appearance and humble attitude kept my childlike mind identifying with his role. Charlie was thankful for the experience. In the end, he had failed, and he knew it. He didn’t let the emotions of others dissuade him from acceptance. He had failed. But there was hope! He had one more chance to not fail. He quietly returned the Everlasting Gobstopper, his chance at fortune, at the expense of Willy Wonka - now revealed to be the passionate man that only
Wilder could have delivered. Wonka was disgusted, appalled at all the disregard caused by the vice and vanity of his guests, Charlie included. But the smallest act, from the truest heart, was enough. Wonka quotes Shakespeare: “So shines a good deed in a weary world.” Charlie bursts through that glass ceiling in the end, soaring above his circumstance. Seeing it all for what it was, so small and temporary, it made his new responsibility that much more exciting! He was prepared, he passed the trial and he understood. So shines a good deed...
Faith burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” Contributed by Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain
Spiritual preparedness is essential in determining where you will spend eternity. God has prepared a place for us. John 14:1-3 says, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.
I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” That place is called Heaven and is reserved for those that believe in Jesus Christ and have accepted Him as Savior and Lord. However, God has also prepared a place for all those who refuse to believe. Revelation 21:8 tells us, “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which
SUBMIT YOUR OWN EVENTS & ARTICLES ON OUR WEBSITE
Revelation 20:15 states, “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” We must be prepared to meet God. We may spend eternity with Jesus in Heaven, or we may reject Jesus and spend eternity in the lake of fire. We choose. What will your choice be? If you are not prepared, please contact me and I can help you. Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain chaplain@alaskaseniors.com 907-715-4001
SEPT 2016
September is recognized as National Preparedness Month (NPM), which serves as a reminder that we all must take action to prepare, now and throughout the year, for the types of emergencies that could affect us where we live, work and also where we visit. Due to the success of last year’s theme, “Don’t Wait, Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today”, it will be returning for this September with a continuing emphasis on preparedness for youth, older adults, people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
Preparedness is important. Floods, earthquakes, vehicle breakdowns or power outages are just a few of the items Alaskan’s need to be ready to contend with.
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Gene Wilder always made me a bit nervous. Something about his style, his persona - only slightly so. Just enough to keep my young mind wondering about the fellow I thought to be Willy Wonka.
Perhaps what was most appealing to me as a boy was that every scene of that classic movie had some moral to be taught. Gluttony, vanity and the list goes on.
experience. Meanwhile, Mr. Slugworth was there, all along the way, tempting and trying him. Charlie’s trial is played out on screen, surrounded by contrast.
PAGE 14 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Arts, Community Contributed by Sharon Benson, Palmer Historical Society Board
Swedish green granite with the inscription:
Next time you are in Palmer, check out the completed Colonist monument at the historic quad in the center of town. Located at the flag area of the quad, the monument is now topped by a bronze sculpture depicting a colony family after disembarking the train to Palmer in 1935.
~THE MATANUSKA COLONY~ “THERE IS A NEW DAY AND THIS IS IT!�
SEPT 2016
Palmer Historical Society Board member, Dan Strouse, and local resident, Helen Hoffman, designed the monument in 1997. With the help of the City of Palmer in installation of the base, much of the work was completed by June of 1998. The base, covered with Matanuska river rock, was topped by a block of Minnesota
A sculpture depicting a composite colony family had been planned for the top of the monument. Unfortunately, Dan Strouse died in April 2000 and the monument was never completed. This past year, the Palmer Historical Society Board commissioned Garley, owner of Arctic Fire Bronze Sculptureworks, to design, fabricate and install a sculpture for the top of the monument. We are proud to have this project completed.
PRESS RELEASE Tundra Comics
page 15
Comics Mat-Su Valley! To purchase go to www. tundracomics.com. Tundra in association with Nomad Cinematics (The minds that brought you “Moose the Movie”) is also excited to announce the DVD release of “Robert Service’s Tales of the North.” Curl up by the fire and enjoy some of Robert Service’s most famous poems as they come to life in a way never before seen!
As with all the Tundra books, it’s packed full of hundreds of hilarious outdoorsy-themed comics in bright, eye-cramping color! Tundra is seen in almost 700 newspapers around the world, but homegrown right here in the
The whole family will love the poems of the north’s most beloved poet mixed with the humorous animations of internationally syndicated cartoonist Chad Carpenter! To watch the official trailer and to purchase, go to www.tundracomics.com.
Also! Would you like another chance to see “Moose The Movie” on the big screen? Here it is! Saturday, October 22nd at 6:30pm in the beautiful, new Glenn Massay Theater located at 8295 E. College Drive Rd., Palmer, at the Mat-Su College.
www. MAKEASCENEAK .com
Cartoonist, Chad Carpenter of Tundra the comic strip, has announced the release of his newest book “Tundra’s Really Swell Sunday Comics Collection.”
The poetry of the “Bard of the Yukon” is presented in a hilarious mix of puppets and animation! Polar fleece, poetry and cartoons have never been funnier together!
Proceeds go to help make the next movie, “Sudsy Slim Rides Again.” Another movie made in Alaska, by Alaskans, starring Alaskans! For tickets ($10) go to www. glennmassaytheater.com.
SEPT 2016
For more information about “Sudsy Slim Rides Again” and trailers for “Moose” go to www.tundracomics.com