Contributed by Josh Fryfogle Patti Dubler is a quilter, not just of quilts, but of the quilting community itself, bringing together quilters from all around to display their carefully crafted handiwork for those who attend the 7th Annual Who Let The Girls Out event - and other notable events like The Wearable Arts Show.
ARTIST MARTHA HAPPS
page 11 of MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE
THE ART OF GOTHIC CUT-OUTS
page 15 of MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE
Denise Statz is a quilter, too. But I’m not referring literally to quilts, or metaphorically about the quilting community, but in the locally-owned business community. Denise has brought together a tapestry of local business people, a tapestry of what makes Palmer work. This year, Who Let The Girls Out is taking some different steps to completion, with Statz stepping back from the role of organizer. Having worked alongside Denise all these years, I have found myself constantly inspired by her drive and action in the community. Leading by example, Denise has put a tremendous amount of her time and resources into our community, making business decisions that consistently reflect her devotion to all things local. While I find myself in the role of coordinator, I still lean heavily on Denise’s creative vision. Truthfully, even the Vote Local campaign has been greatly affected by Denise Statz. Denise was one of the first people to hear about the Vote Local concept of shopping local as a political action. I took it to her early on because I knew her years of advocating for locally owned business, and her resulting philosophy of doing business, would be a source of sober response. Denise would tell me any flaw in this Vote Local vision. I mean, why learn the hard way, why not move things along with the benefit of real experience?
ADOPT TUCKER
And she questioned me, finding where my vision for Vote Local could be stitched into the fabric of the local economy. She helped me to help
others. She brought things together. Now I find myself in a greater role of coordinating Who Let The Girls Out this year. In years past, I have helped Denise do this event, but I’ve been more than content to serve the role of helper. Having worked with countless business owners over the years, I’ve always found Statz’s vision and drive to be inspiring - a force to be reckoned with! Denise has a style that moves people to act. But her drive is justified by her sincere respect for people like Patti Dubler. When Denise talks about Patti and what she does with quilts and a community of quilters, that’s when that consistent philosophy is most evident. That’s when Denise is her truest self. Palmer is picture-perfect place, a pleasing backdrop for this yearly event, with music all day Saturday at Vagabond Blues, the 5K Run on Friday night, the fashion show at Klondike’s that evening and shopping events all day on Saturday. There will be so much to do! Art/ Crafts, Contests, Cooking Classes, Drawings, Food, Games, Giveaways, Gym Training, Live Music, Party, Photo Booth, Raffle, Sales, Shows, Tours, Wine Tastings and more. Who Let The Girls Out is a patchwork of Palmer. I am proud to have been part of Who Let The Girls Out from the beginning, and to have learned from someone like Denise. She gave a pattern to this event that needs only a guiding hand, to thread the needle of commerce and community. Who Let The Girls Out, April 28th and 29th in Downtown Palmer. Vote Local. The Valley Quilt Guild was formed in 1985 and currently has approximately 200 members. They have a monthly newsletter and hold monthly meetings which hosts classes, lectures and many more activities such as quilt retreats, quilt camp and other seasonal activities. www.valleyquiltersguild.com
page 10 of THE PEOPLE’S PAPER
SUBMIT YOUR OWN EVENTS & ARTICLES ON OUR WEBSITE
PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES
Active Body Downtown Gym 642 S Alaska St. Ste B1, Palmer (907) 746-3700 www.activebodyak.com This is not your same old gym experience: walking in and staring at a bunch of cold sweat-drenched equipment. You will find smiling trainers ready to help you look better, feel better and live better. Look forward to your workouts when you join us for one of our exciting and motivating group sessions. It’s not just about looking your best, it’s about finding the best version of yourself. Active Soles Performance Footwear 642 S Alaska St. Ste. 100, Palmer (907) 746-0600 We are a shoe store in downtown Palmer that specializes in comfort and performance footwear for all different types of feet. Our footwear specialists know in-depth information about all of our shoe companies and are trained to help individuals find the footwear that is appropriate for their gate and lifestyle. Artists Uncorked 832 S Colony Way, Palmer (907) 982-2675 www.artistsuncorked.com Paint and art parties/ events. A DIY art studio, mobile paint parties, private parties, open studio. B Bella Hair Design 642 S Alaska St. Palmer (907) 736-9007 www.bbellahairdesign.com B Bella Hair Design was started in 2006, a hair salon in the heart of Palmer with lots of style. Owned by a lifelong Alaskan, B Bella is an inviting atmosphere to relax and create your personal style. Charlotte’s Flowers 105 E. Arctic Ave. #3, Palmer (907) 745-5550 www.charlottesflowershop.com Locally owned and operated flower shop, located in the heart of Palmer. Our services include fresh cut flower arrangements, gourmet and gift baskets and designers’ favorite dish gardens. We also cater to weddings, funerals, baby showers and much more. When we say any occasion, we mean it!
Cover Ups 840 S Colony Way, Palmer (907) 746-4739 www.coverupsak.com We are a vintage-style home decor store. We specialize in repurposed and upcycled furnishings. Cover Ups is Alaska’s only supplier of Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan. Additional services include window coverings and painting classes.
Heritage Midwifery 2323 S. Trunk Rd. Palmer (907) 746-6644 www.heritagebirthcenter.com A local midwifery practice and birthing center offering prenatal, postpartum, newborn and well woman care to the families of the Mat-Su Valley. Come check out our info table during WLTGO, at the Downtown Palmer Plaza.
Du Jour Fashion LLC 550 S Alaska St. Palmer (907) 841-9659 We are a small boutique store providing a quality, professional and comfortable atmosphere to shop for lingerie, De Blossom footwear, Halloween costumes and men’s underwear. Locally owned and operated. Look for us at the AK State Fair 2017. No one can beat our prices!
Hot Hot Chocolate 550 S Alaska Ste. 110., Palmer (907) 746-7334 A small chocolate shop, specializing in gourmet truffles and chocolate creations. Everything is made in the store in Palmer, conveniently located in the Downtown Palmer Plaza.
Fables & Co. at Madd Matters 1088 S Colony Way, Palmer (907) 745-6045 Fables & Co. has recently redirected their retail efforts to fill the niche of men’s products - something that is truly unique in the Palmer economy. Clothing, grooming products, men’s European wool sweaters, toiletries and more in store! Fireside Books 720 S Alaska St., Palmer (907) 745-2665 www.goodbooksbadcoffee.com Where writers and readers meet! Featuring an eclectic selection of new and used books: fiction, politics, science, self-help, Alaskana and more! Float Alaska 2323 S. Trunk Rd. Palmer (907) 746-6645 www.floatalaska.net Locally owned Floatation Center located in Palmer, AK offering Float Therapy, Swedish Massage, Reiki and Thai Massage to the Mat-Su Valley. We will have an informational table inside the Downtown Palmer Plaza during WLTGO. Forever Endeavor 642 S Alaska St. Ste. 105, Palmer (907) 745-4387 An eclectic and fun mix of local art and jewelry as well as art supplies, craft books, yarn & gifts.
Humdinger’s Gourmet Pizza 173 S Valley Way, Palmer (907) 745-7499 www.humdingerspizza.com Wood-fired gourmet pizza, tons of glutenfree options, great salads and free Wi-Fi! Klondike Mike’s 820 S Colony Way, Palmer (907) 745-2676 We are a family friendly, recently remodeled bar and grill located in the heart of downtown Palmer. La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant 132 Evergreen Ave., Palmer (907) 746-3335 La Fiesta is a locallyowned Mexicna Restaurant - Serving Mexican food to Downtown Palmer for 25 years!
enhance every meal. Chocolates, small gifts and a carefully selected section of Alaskana make your gift giving a snap. Our “from scratch” kitchen provides personalized catering and cakes for every occasion. Nourished Health Coaching 6330 N. Britchenstrap Drive, Palmer (907) 982-9933 www.nourishedak.com Personalized health coaching services helping people make small steps with their nutrition and lifestyle that will last a lifetime. Your health, your growth, your journey. You are worth it! Palmer City Alehouse 320 E Dahlia St., Palmer (907) 746-2537 Palmer City Alehouse is the perfect destination for a night out, an intimate dinner for two of a large group celebration. Serving delicious handmade fire rock pizzas, hand pressed burgers,, great tossed salads, and over 45 beers on tap! Bleeding Heart Brewery will be on tap at the Alehouse! First 25 beers get to keep the glass. Grab a sticker and a coaster while you’re there Palmer Downtown Deli 550 S Alaska St. Ste. 105, Palmer (907) 745-4100 www.palmerdeli.com Located in the heart of Downtown Palmer in the Downtown Palmer Plaza, the Palmer Downtown Deli has built a reputation over the past year for serving amazing soups, salads and sandwiches, as well as our awardwinning gelatos, sorbettos and cannoli.
Nesse Photo LLC. 4900 Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. Ste. 105 (907) 414-7738 www.nessephoto.com We are a local photography business that specializes in weddings, family shoots and senior photos! We will be on the sidewalk outside NonEssentials.
Paradise Tanning 550 S. Alaska St. Palmer (907) 745-8268 www.palmerparadisetanning.com Tanning Salon offers a variety of tanning beds along with a sunless sprayer. We carry an assortment of amazing lotions, including MR International and Hempz. We also offer local apparel and sunglasses.
NonEssentials 728 S Alaska St. Palmer (907) 745-2258 www.nonessentialsalaska.com NonEssentials features a wildly wonderful array of gourmet foods sauces, seasonings, teas and oils - to
Pizza Delphi 103 W. Arctic Ave. Palmer (907) 745-2929 Locally-owned restaurant! Dine in, carry out and delivery. Steak, seafood, burgers, sandwiches and of course, awesome pizzas!
PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES
Shane Lamb Gallery 550 S Alaska St. Ste. 107, Palmer (907) 746-3343 www.shanelamb.com Art, photography and gifts! We have a large selection of Alaskan artist Shane Lamb’s art and photography. Come check the Valley’s largest selection of metal prints. We also offer an inspiring array of arts and crafts from over fifty other Alaskan artists. Locally owned and operated, Shane Lamb Gallery is located in the Downtown Palmer Plaza. Silvertip Design & Mercantile 421 S. Alaska Street, Palmer (907) 745-2902 www.silvertipdesignak.com We design and sell our own brand of Alaska and Palmer hoodies, t-shirts and more as we are an Embroidery and Silkscreen shop. We support and sell Alaskan artist and crafters handmade gifts as well as Made in the USA products. Our shop in itself is unique and worth the visit. Stamp Cache Alaska 642 S Alaska St Suite 107, Palmer (907) 745-4848 www.stampcachealaska.com Stamp Cache Alaska is your local shop for rubber stamp and scrapbooking supplies.
The Garden Gate 810 S Colony Way, Palmer (907) 745-1450 A charming boutique in the heart of downtown Palmer. Featuring clothing, accessories and gifts. Whimsy Gift Shop 642 S. Alaska St. Ste. 104, Palmer (907) 745-4312 We are a gift shop containing unique gift ideas with a full line of designed in Alaska apparel.
SPONSORS:
THE PASS 95.5FM THE PEOPLE’S PAPER MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE COUNTRY LEGENDS 100.9 The UPS Store, Palmer PIZZA RIA DELPHI KHITZ 107.1 RADIO FREE PALMER 89.5 ERIK CHRISTENSEN, STATE FARM matanuska telephone association MAT-VALLEY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Dalrymple Law Bleeding Heart Brewery Lodestar Family Eyecare Palmer Chamber of Commerce
Wishing Wellness LLC 550 S. Alaska Street Ste. #207, Palmer (907) 707-1270 www.wishingwellnesspalmer.com At Wishing Wellness LLC, your goals are our highest priority. Working with the Ideal Protein system, we will tailor a personalized, professionally supervised program to meet your individual needs. Whether your goals are for a more active lifestyle, to perform better at work our medically supervised program will help you succeed!
All Around Palmer!
Tons of participating businesses!
HEALTH & WELLNESS Contributed by Dori Cranmore, RN Elderberries (Sambucus) have been a folk remedy for centuries in North America, Europe, Western Asia and North Africa, hence the medicinal benefits of elderberries are being investigated and rediscovered. Elderberry juice was used to treat a flu epidemic in Panama in 1995. Elderberries have been used for their antioxidant activity to lower cholesterol, improve vision, boost the immune system, improve heart health and for coughs, colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections and tonsillitis. Bioflavonoids and other proteins in the juice destroy the ability of cold and flu viruses to infect a cell. People with the flu who took elderberry juice reported less severe symptoms and felt better much faster than those who did not. With a cold, flu or any other virus, drugs only have the ability to mask or treat symptoms, but they cannot eliminate the virus itself. Only the immune system can do that. Viruses, which are very
Contributed by Tara Workman, Chiropractic Physician Our posture is with us wherever we go and with every activity that we do. Posture is habitual, meaning that without conscious awareness to our posture, we have poor posture without even thinking about it. In fact, the areas that we spend the most amount of our time are the places that we commonly have the worst posture. If you spend more than an hour per day in these places your posture may be compromised. The most common places to have the worst posture are: • Seated at the Office: Being seated for hours per day is rough on our posture, and is one of the most common reasons for postural decline especially as we age. Most of us do not sit at our desks sitting back in our chairs to keep our back straight and keep our computers at eye level. Looking down for long periods of time is one way to cause headaches and neck pain. You can use a posture cushion to sit on for better posture, and raise your computer monitor if necessary to keep the monitor at eye level. • Driving in a Car: When driving in a car, especially for long periods of time, many people slump in their seats and forget to sit up straight. People commonly drive with one hand, meaning that their shoulders are misaligned or lean to one side thus causing the pelvis to rotate. While driving think of sitting up straight
COMMUNITY PAGE 4
small infectious agents that replicate inside the body, only cause illness in the first place if the immune system fails to do its job. When the immune system fails, use elderberries. When the immune system fails to do its job, there is one natural remedy that has proven to be among the most effective for battling viruses. Elderberries, which happen to be a very powerful antioxidant, have been used for centuries in other countries around the world to treat colds, influenza, wounds (when applied topically) and has even shown to be effective against the herpes simplex virus. A 2001 study published in the U.S. National Library of Medicine stated that elderberry extracts are “natural remedies with antiviral properties, especially against different strains of influenza virus.” Another 2004 study published in the NLM commented on reduced duration of flu symptoms when using elderberry, “Symptoms were relieved on average four days earlier and use of rescue medication was significantly less in those receiving
and keeping both hands on the steering wheel and sitting even in your seat. • Standing in Line: Face it, what do most of us do while standing in line? We pull out our cell phones and look down at our phones to pass the time while we are waiting in line. Looking down at a cell phone adds a lot of strain to your neck. Plus, when your feet get tired do you commonly shift your weight from one leg to the other? Keeping your weight distributed over both feet with your cellphone brought up to eye level is the best way to pass the time while waiting in line, without causing undue stress on your neck. • Sleeping in Bed: We spend onethird of our life in bed! Then add bad posture every night, this accounts to many hours of poor posture throughout your life. Instead of sleeping on your stomach roll over to your back or your side. These are the best positions to sleep in. Also, watch the number of pillows underneath your head, for best posture you want your head to be in a neutral position while sleeping, whether it be on your back or side. I want to challenge you to do yourself a favor and do a 24-hour posture challenge. For the next 24 hours, pay conscious attention to your posture in the areas that are most common for poor posture. For a full posture analysis, contact Dr. Tara Workman at Altair Chiropractic at 357-1818, and she can teach you how to correct your posture today.
elderberry extract compared with placebo.” University of Maryland Medical Center writes, “Elderberries may have anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anticancer properties,” and, “One study suggested that elderberries could kill the H1N1 virus.” Why exactly are elderberries so effective? It is hypothesized that black elderberries may include a specific compound which coats viruses and keeps them from penetrating and infecting healthy cells. The truth is that science cannot always pinpoint the exact reason mother nature’s remedies work as well as they do. There are unknown molecules in nature which
Contributed Winona Benson, Certified Health Coach Picture a big glass goblet filled to the halfway mark with water. How do you see it? Half-full or half-empty? Consistently finding the glass halfempty and the world as a difficult place is a hallmark of negativity. Research has found that a negative outlook can contribute to everything from depression to heart disease to lowered immune system function. It can affect sleep, weight maintenance, the quality of your relationships, your social life and even your ability to hold a job. Now imagine what it would feel like to approach life from a place of positivity, fun, connection, health and possibility. Sounds good, doesn’t it? 6 Simple Tips to Make a Positive Switch: To help wipe out negativity, try one or more of the following action steps. • Go complaint-free. Try going an hour without complaining and see the positive things in your life. Next, try a day, a week and so on. • Keep a gratitude journal. Each evening, list ten or more things that you are grateful for. • Give compliments freely. Notice the good in others. Praise every person you interact with.
work in mysterious ways with the body. The human body and its mysterious abilities to heal and overcome sicknesses cannot always be identified or quantified by science. The body and mind are amazingly complex and that complexity works especially well with nature in its unaltered form. So the next time you have a cold or flu, try black elderberry elixir. This information is for educational purposes only and not intended to diagnose, cure or treat diseases. Dori Cranmore RN is the owner of All About Herbs, Inc. 376-8327
• Find beauty everywhere in your world. Notice its gorgeousness. • Share your good news. Studies show that sharing happy events brings even more happiness. • Focus on what you want, not what you don’t want. Maintaining a positive outlook takes practice and the more you do it, the easier it gets. The pay-off - a happier, healthier life - is absolutely worth the effort. Get Even Healthier! Want to learn how to make positive choices in your own life? Want support in creating your healthiest, happiest life ever? Let’s talk! Schedule a complimentary health coaching consultation with me today or pass this offer on to someone you care about! I have been working in the field of health and nutrition for nearly a decade. I have learned from many reputable doctors including Dr. Fuhrman and Dr. Colin T. Campbell, and have knowledge of over 100 dietary theories. I have learned and studied a variety of practical lifestyle coaching methods. Drawing on this knowledge, I will help you create a completely personalized “roadmap to health” that suits your unique body, lifestyle, preferences and goals. Learn more about my training and my unique approach to health coaching at www.nourishedak.com
HEALTH & EDUCATION Contributed by Dr. Anna Altair In the late 1990s, I was fortunate to have Dr. Lipton as one of my professors/teachers at my chiropractic college. His vitality, energy and joy came through in his lectures. This is a short introduction of his work. Dr. Lipton is the author of Biology of Beliefs, where he speaks in depth about the creative conscious mind and the habitual sub-conscious mind.
Contributed by Kendra Zamzow March For Science 4/22/2017 – 2PM March for Science Palmer Library 655 S Valley Way, Palmer FREE Event Why march for science? Because we care. We care that our children are grounded in good science education. We care that people have access to good information through cooperative extensions. We care that policy makers have subject matter experts who can inform them. Whether it’s soils, hydrology, fisheries, electronics or medicine, science is connected to our daily lives. Science and scientific research is an historical legacy, not a partisan issue. The Dena’ina and Ahtna Athabascan people were the first scientists in this area. They observed natural phenomena, experimented, determined results, repeated their method and communicated results,
Contributed by Melissa Clampitt UAF and the Cooperative Extension are celebrating a big birthday! 100 years! Many people are unfamiliar with the Cooperative Extension Service, so we thought we would have a centennial
Contributed by Rabbi Mendy Greenberg On March 28th during the city council meeting at Palmer City Hall, Mayor Edna DeVries presented a proclamation declaring April 7th, 2017 as Education and Sharing Day for Palmer citizens, in honor of the 115th anniversary of the Rebbe’s birth.
Both of these aspects of mind influence our lives and our aging processes in profound ways. He shared the “Fountain of Youth” within our own bodies the - telomeres - how our environment and especially our subconscious beliefs influence our aging process. One of the principal elements to keeping healthy and young is being in service. When you awake in the morning with something to do, whether it is caring for another person or caring for the planet, the chemistry
handing down information and wisdom through an oral tradition. More recently, Palmer has been a significant site of research for 100 years with the founding of the Matanuska Experiment Station. This led to the Matanuska Colony and the city of Palmer itself. The Palmer Seismological Observatory, founded 50 years ago, is now one of only two national tsunami warning centers. The Valley is home to scientists, engineers, citizen science conservation projects, Mat-Su College, an arboretum and a seed vault, to mention a few. We can even claim a Nobel laureate, Physicist George Smoot, who attended school in Palmer. His work on cosmic radiation supports the Big Bang Theory. Science serves society. Bridges that span our rivers and provide safe passage across Alaskan rivers and gorges such as Hurricane Gulch in Denali, are designed and planned using science. The Recycling Center sends out our sorted trash to businesses who use methods developed from science to create new uses for it rather than
celebration and let the public see why we have been around for 100 years. Join us the third Thursday of every month throughout 2017 as one of our Extension agents teaches on relevant topics such as wild edibles,
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson of righteous memory was a global spiritual leader and a tireless advocate for youth around the world. This follows the tradition of US Congress and US presidents, who since 1978 have set aside the day of the Rebbe’s birthday as a national Education and Sharing Day. The Rebbe dedicated his life to the betterment of mankind. He arrived in America 75 years ago, escaping a wartorn Europe. From the moment he came here, he recognized the wonderful values and gifts that our great country possesses: the love and care for all humanity equally. Understanding that the youth is our future and the America of tomorrow, he was a tireless advocate for youth in this country and throughout the globe, emphasizing the importance of education and good character. The Rebbe taught that education is not just about accumulating knowledge in areas like math, science and history, but that our educational system must pay more attention to building character
COMMUNITY PAGE 5
of the brain that is involved with service releases chemicals to keep your body healthy. This facilitates your purpose of the day. “There is a new scientific thought about our genetic make-up. The new research shows that our genes are controlled by our perceptions and our environment. Thus the phrase: Change your thinking, change your life.” “When the conscious mind is thinking, all behavior is taken over by the programs in the subconscious mind, by default. What’s the relevance? Science
consuming space in landfills. Landfills themselves are designed and managed using techniques and methods from science. Every day we and even our beloved pets, benefit from scientific research leading to better care. Celebrate science on Earth Day! On Earth Day - Saturday, April 22, 2017 - individuals in the community will join and march for science to highlight the importance of science and research in our daily lives and the life of our community. Science stations in downtown Palmer and at the Annex will provided opportunities to meet the people and organizations in our community who use science in their work to benefit our lives and community. If you want to get involved and have a science station, contact Kendra at kzamzow@gmail.com by April 18th. No charge to set up a station! Join us in one or all of these community events: When: Earth Day, Saturday April 22, 2017
reveals that 95% of our day is spent in thoughts involving our conscious mind. Every time you have a thought, the conscious mind lets go of the wheel and the auto-pilot kicks in, that is the default sub-conscious mind.” You can learn more about Dr. Lipton and his research and teaching at www. brucelipton.com, or contact Dr. Anna Altair for further information. Contact Dr. Anna Altair, at Altair Chiropractic in Wasilla 907-357-1818. Her journey to health is interesting and helpful to those suffering with disease. Good health is your birthright!
Events: 2 PM: Speakers and march from the grassy area through downtown Palmer. 3 PM: Visit science stations around town and in the Annex on Alaska Way to meet scientists and organizations using science in our community. Maps will be provided. 5 PM: Socialize in the banquet room at Turkey Red. Appetizers will be provided. The March for Science is a celebration of our enthusiasm for science and our support for the scientific community. State budget cuts and recent national policy changes are impacting science and caused heightened concern regarding the place of science in society. An outpouring of support has made clear that these concerns are shared by people around the world. The March for Science is an international movement by people who realize that staying silent about the positive impacts science makes on our daily lives and communities is not an option.
Where: Grassy area between the Palmer Library and the Borough Building.
Please join us and show your support.
birch tapping, and more. Each event begins at 6pm and will be held at the Matanuska Experiment Farm.
These classes are family friendly.
With little to no cost, it’s a great way to spend an hour or two one evening a month!
To learn more about the Cooperative Extension Service or to get more information about our Centennial Celebration events, visit our website: www.uaf.edu/ces/districts/matsu
with an emphasis on moral and ethical values. One must not stress just success for the individual, but also for society. To honor his great legacy, in 1978 US Congress and President Jimmy Carter set aside the day of the Rebbe’s birth to be a day of reflection in areas of education.
the tragic death of David Greenwald emphasizes how crucial and important it is to provide for our children the best education possible, teaching them to be kind and loving citizens, uniting all of us as one nation under God. Therefore, it is very timely that the City of Palmer follow this great tradition of our country to set aside a day of reflection on the importance of education.
Since then, every year the US presidents have signed proclamations declaring his birthday as Education and Sharing Day USA. The Rebbe took special interest in promoting the importance of education in the State of Alaska by sending his representatives here in 1970. Thanks to his inclusive vision and unconditional love for humanity, leadership and dedication, countless lives have been touched and inspired, especially through the establishment of the Alaska Jewish Campus and Historical Museum in Anchorage and more recently, the establishment of the MatSu Jewish Center - Chabad Lubavitch in Wasilla. What we saw happen here in the Valley by the violence of youth in
COMMUNITY / FAITH
COMMUNITY
the license fees and all the other requirements which the bill imposed on amateur stations. Contributed by Don Bush, KL7JFT Hamfest 5/6/2017 - 10AM Matanuska Amateur Radio Association Wasilla Boys & Girls Club E 5700 Bogard Rd. Wasilla Admission: $3 In the spring, ham radio operators start to get real active in community support activities. It’s also time to check the antennas and mobile rigs to see what winter may have been a little hard on and get it fixed. Another important activity is the Hamfest. Just what is this? Well it’s like a large garage sale, with a lot more things included. Some Hamfests, like the Dayton Hamfest fills up a large stadium. Now the one that the Matanuska Amateur Radio Association has will be a bit smaller than that, but what an opportunity to check out various types of radio equipment, computers, other electronic equipment and hear about the latest in ham radio as a hobby and emergency communications. Bring your gear in if you would like to sell, swap or upgrade. Learn how to program your radios. We get a lot of questions about where the term “Ham Radio” came from. Well here is a little history: Why radio amateurs are called Hams? (from Florida Skip Magazine - 1959) Have you ever wondered why radio amateurs are called hams? Well, it goes like this: The word “ham” as applied to 1908 was the station call of the first
Contributed by Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain The National Day of Prayer is observed annually on the first Thursday in May. This day of observance designated by the United States Congress, asks people to turn to God in prayer and meditation. The modern law formalizing the annual National Day of Prayer observance was enacted in 1952 and each year since, the president of the United States has signed a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day. Before 1952, there have been a few other individual National Days of Prayer in United States history: • July 20, 1775 – The Continental Congress issued a proclamation recommending a day of public
amateur wireless stations operated by some amateurs of the Harvard Radio Club. They were Albert S. Hyman, Bob Almy and Poogie Murray. At first they called their station, HymanAlmy-Murray. Tapping out such a long name in code soon became tiresome and called for a revision. They changed it to HY-AL-MU, using the first two letters of each of their names. Early in 1901, some confusion resulted between signals from amateur wireless station, HYALMU, and a Mexican ship named, HYALMO. They then decided to use only the first letter of each name, and the station call became HAM. In the early pioneer days of unregulated radio, amateur operators picked their own frequency and callletters. Then as now, some amateurs had better signals than commercial stations. The resulting interference came to the attention of congressional committees in Washington, and Congress gave much time to proposed legislation designed to critically limit amateur radio activity. In 1911, Albert Hyman chose the controversial Wireless Regulation Bill as the topic for his thesis at Harvard. His instructor insisted that a copy be sent to Senator David I. Walsh, a member of one of the committees hearing the bill. The senator was so impressed with the thesis that he asked Hyman to appear before the committee. Albert Hyman took the stand and described how the little station was built and almost cried when he told the crowded committee room that if the bill went through, they would have to close down the station because they could not afford
humiliation, fasting and prayer be observed. • In 1795 – George Washington proclaimed a day of public thanksgiving and prayer. • May 9, 1798 – John Adams declared this day as a day of solemn humility, fasting and prayer. • March 1863 – On March 3, Abraham Lincoln signed a Congressional resolution during the Civil War, which called for April 30, 1863 as a day of fasting and prayer. For more information on National Day of Prayer visit the website nationaldayofprayer.org So, what is prayer? Simply, talking with God. The components of prayer consist of adoration, confession, thanksgiving and supplication (ACTS).
Congressional debate began on the Wireless Regulation Bill and little station, HAM, became the symbol for all the little amateur stations in the country crying to be saved from the menace and greed of the big commercial stations who didn’t want them around. The bill finally got to the floor of Congress and every speaker talked about the “...poor little station, HAM.” That’s how it all started. You will find the whole story in the Congressional Record. Nation-wide publicity associated station “HAM” with amateur radio operators. From that day to this, and probably until the end of time, in radio an amateur is a “Ham”. We will be conducting this hamfest on May 6th from 10am – 4pm. We will have seminars on satellite communications, ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service), about what’s new about ham radio. We’ll have the barbee on also, so you can get a great bite to eat as you check out all the tables and vendors. This is MARA’s main fundraising activity, so there will be great door prizes, raffles and other items that may tickle your fancy. Note: You must be present to win the door prizes. There will be t-shirts and other items related to Ham Radio. If you would like to have a table for selling electronic equipment, please contact Kent/KL4AY at kmosher@ mtaonline.net. Door entrance donation will be $3 and the barbee is $5. We would like to really thank all the vendors and sponsors from around the Valley for their support. Our webpage,
Adoration is saying to God, “I adore you.” Psalm 95:6 states, “O come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord our maker.” Psalm 48:1 says, “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness.” Confession is confessing our sin to God. We must hold nothing back. Psalm 66:18 clearly states, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:” Sin hinders our ability to pray. King David said in Psalm 32:5, “I acknowledge my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.” Thanksgiving means thanking God for all things. Paul in Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace
PAGE 6
www.kl7jfu.com, and our MARA Facebook page will have a list of those sponsors and contributors, so you can stop by and thank them for their support. The location for the event is at the Wasilla Boys & Girls Club at E 5700 Bogard Rd. Our activities are centered on various venues: the Women’s Gold Nugget Triathlon, one of the main races for the Kona Triathlon, the MS 150 bike race from Girdwood to Hope and back, the Dog Jog, a great event to have with your pets and the Jr. Iditarod in February Then there are various emergency preparedness fairs at Matsu College, Sportsman Warehouse and Menard Sports Center where you can learn how to be ready for an emergency and where Ham Radio assists several agencies and cities around the state: the Girl Scout Encampment, coming in June at the State Fair Grounds, and the Boy Scout Jamboree on the Air (JOTA) in October. We are also conducting Ham Radio license classes to help folks get their license and join in this wonderful hobby. Our monthly meetings are the last Friday of every month at Fire Station 61 at 7pm. Our luncheons are on the third Tuesday of the month at Chepo’s. You can follow all of this plus photos of all our activities on our Facebook page. Our motto is, “When all else fails call a Ham.” So stop by and visit, also check out our mobile communications and support trailers. If you have any questions about the event contact Betty/KL1XL at 907-376-9549 or Sheila/ KL3TP at 907-746-1013. See you there!
of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Supplication is our requests to God. Warning! James 4:3 explains why God does not answer our prayers. “Ye ask and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” Our requests need to follow the teachings of the word of God. “And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.” (1 John 3:22) It is God’s desire that we pray. “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16) Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain 907 715-4001
how to use, what a “good deal” is, how to supply our own habit, we also had enablers along the way.”
Contributed by Mark Weaver
•
Dear Naysayers,
•
Every time our local media releases a story about some of the hard fought changes in our state to become a recovery-ready community, you merely have to click on the comment section of the story to see the hate flowing like the urinals at Koots on Saturday nights. I swear that I could play a game that I call “Catchphrase Bingo” and win most of the time, with the statements that I hear (or read) on a regular basis. Here is a list of some of the usual suspects and my first thought reactions to them: • • • • •
“You can’t help somebody that doesn’t want help.” ~ People ask me for help daily. “It’s their choice.” ~ I have yet to meet an addict that wants to be addicted to anything. “Why are we ‘wasting’ money on this?” ~ It’s an investment to break the cycle. “Thin the herd.” ~ Let’s start with the @$$#*!€$ first then. “Kill all of the drug dealers.” ~ So we should kill doctors, nurse practitioners and pharmacist too?
• • •
•
•
“Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.” ~ You win. “Darwin Theory - Survival of the fittest.” ~ My recovery community is not only surviving, it’s thriving. “Let the junkies kill themselves off.” ~ And do the same for smokers and the obese? “You’re just enabling them.” ~ Let’s enable people to get better. “It’s not my problem.” ~ You are already paying for it whether you realize it or not, it’s all of our problem. “They need tough love.” ~ If punishment cured addiction, the war on drugs would have ended many, many years ago. “It’s not a disease.” ~ US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy says that it is.
Drugs do not discriminate. They don’t care if you live on the Anchorage hillside or in the Valley. They don’t care about ethnicity, how pretty you are, how funny you are, how smart you are or how athletically gifted you are. Just because you have yet to be directly affected by this growing epidemic doesn’t mean that it won’t happen. If/when it does, I won’t judge you like the handful of keyboard warriors that I
Why should recovery be different? It takes a village! Let’s build that village together. Some of the most proactive people that I know in fighting addiction and criminal recidivism didn’t go to traditional schools, they graduated from “street college”. These people are seasoned veterans that can sniff out BS like nobody else. “Those that are closest to the problem are the closest to the solution.”
see so often on social media. I will absolutely help you to the best of my ability, to find the solutions that you are seeking by using the limited resources that we have available now until we develop more in the not-so-distant future. The enemy wants to keep us isolated and stuck in our addictions. The most effective way that I’ve seen to combat that is through community. Too many people that struggle have bought the lie that, “This is my problem, I need to fix it all by myself.” As a person and long-term recovery, I can say this with certainty, “No one becomes an addict all by themselves. Each of us had people show us where to score,
Many of us firmly believe that if we reduce the demand for drugs, then the supply will stop coming into our state and crime will thereby decline. Please don’t underestimate us, we are going to continue building our recoveryready community with or without you. But it will take less time with some cooperation and even some help along the way. To those that have read this all the way to this line, thank you and God bless you for caring enough to do so. Keep fighting the good fight! Mark Weaver - VP of Fallen Up Ministries, Board Member of R.E.A.L. About Addiction, Member of the MatSu Opioid Task Force, Member of the Anchorage Opioid Task Force.
VETERANS/POLITICS a sign of weakness. Proactive measures by friends or family need to be used if this age group’s circle of family and friends are to be spared the tragic impact of suicide. Contributed by Major Mike Dryden, USAR Retired The volume of veterans set to reach retirement age in the next decade will put tremendous pressure on the VA healthcare system. The Long-Term Supports and Services (LTSS) is one program the VA is attempting to rebalance and revamp in an attempt to avoid any impact on veterans. LTSS offers patent-centered services in the least restrictive setting possible. For the majority of veterans, that place is their home. In the past, the VA’s focus has been on elder-care institutions, i.e. long-term care facilities. However, in the past decade, the VA’s LTSS programs has expanded their in-home care services thus allowing a veteran to live in a familiar, safe and least-restrictive environment (home) in concert with the veteran’s extended family support system. This delivery of services method is a force multiplier of precious VA budget dollars. The VA has been tasked to shift from the outdated institutional model to home and community-based services (HCBS). However, a decade has passed since the GAO has updated Congress and should conduct a review of HCBS and other programs. For this sorely needed transition to speedily occur, Congress must be proactive and demand that the VA move swiftly into the more cost-effective, home-based model. On a related issue, the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) has proved to be a major factor in a veteran’s ability to remain at home with their family caregivers. As most realize, having a family member at home is a blessing,
but at the same time very taxing on the caregiver. The stipend provided by the VA to the caregiver has shown this small expense prevents the veteran from needing a higher, more costly level of care. The caregiver is given healthcare coverage if they have none and paid respite to avoid caregiver burnout. But access to PCAFC is denied to veterans injured before September 11, 2001. While this bill was passed in the wake of the 9/11 attack, the veteran community believes that all veterans’ service was important and no such benchmark date should be used to deny home-based services. By allowing an injured veteran to be cared for by their loved ones instead of wasting away in a long-term care facility is far better for the service member and more cost effective. The latest figures show the average cost per patient covered by PCAFC is $37,000 compared to $330,000 for a bed in long-term care. This is what the private sector calls a no-brainer. Finally, on a more somber subject, we need to address mental health and suicide prevention. The number of veterans who take their own life is well above the average of the general population at more than twenty per day. Almost every waking hour of your day, some veteran decides to end it all. After somebody close to you or a family member loses a loved one to suicide, the question always come up, “I wish I had done something when I noticed the changes in his/her lifestyle.” All age groups are at risk, but the over 65 year old veterans account for 65% of all self-inflicted deaths. Remember, veterans may have suppressed their PTSD by using drugs and/or alcohol to an excess. The Vietnam-era veteran was from a generation where talking about such problems were considered
The VA is acutely aware of this risk, but is hampered by the availability of trained mental health care professionals in the labor market.The number of veterans seeking mental health advice and service has risen by over 70% in recent years. This trend is good news because veterans are reaching out for help. However, the wait time for initial evaluation is increasing at an alarming rate. A veteran’s struggle to ask for help is a major first step on the road to recovery, but the window of opportunity to get help is limited. If a veteran seeks help and doesn’t receive that help in a timely manner, the next step might just be suicide. Remember that depression is not a permanent condition and can be reversed with proper help. The major problem for both the veteran and the VA is after a service member receives their discharge, no tracking system exists at present for a veteran unless the veteran asks for help. This is where the family needs to be the driver for their loved one’s recovery and treatment. Mental illness can’t be seen like an injury to a part of your body. It is the recognition of the veteran’s actions that dictates the need for help. Service organizations like the DAV, American Legion, VFW and many other fine non-profits are your best resources for up-to-date information on new programs. Your local VA clinic if you have one close by is where you need to start by getting enrolled in the health care program. A DD214 and a couple of hours starts the ball rolling. My thanks to the following websites for the information in this article: MOAA, DAV, VFW, American Legion, TopVA Care.com and the Veteran Administration.
ACCOMMODATIONS Houston Lodge Marketplace…. 892-5124 Sunset View Resort ........ 892-8595 ADULT PIANO LESSONS Hitchcock Piano Studio ........ 745-3134 ALCOHOL DETECTION Alcohol Detection Services…. 677-7300 APPAREL All Seasons Clothing ........ 357-0123 CW Tack ........ 376-2668 D’s Tuxedo ........ 707-6585 Mimi’s Closet ........ 376-2661 ART & CRAFTS Shane Lamb Gallery… 746-3343 The Gallery ........ 745-1420 BOOKSTORE Fireside Books ........ 745-2665 CAFÉ & COFFEE Alaska Artisan Coffee ........ 745-5543 Espresso Café ........ 376-5282 Gathering Grounds ........ 376-4404 Vagabond Blue……..745-2233 CANDY Monica’s Confection ... 315-3999 CHINESE FOOD/ASIAN FOOD Kings Asian Buffet ........ 357-9977 COOKWARE All I Saw Cookware ........ 376-3177 CREATIVE ENTERTAINMENT Artists Uncorked ........ 982-2675 EDUCATION Learning Essentials ........ 357-3990 FLOWERS & GIFTS Charlotte’s Flowers ........ 745-5550 FOOTWEAR Northern Comfort ........ 376-5403 HEALTH & WELLNESS All About Herbs ........ 376-8327
Contributed by Beth Fread According to Legislative Finance’s Fiscal Year (FY) summaries, from 2015 through 2018 the State of Alaska will/has averaged $8.14 billion dollars in revenues, $10.82 billion in expenditures and a deficit of $2.53 billion. Our legislatively available appropriation reserves (savings accounts) averaged $15.85 billion. If an average $2.53 billion in reserve appropriations for these four years had been made our reserves would still be $5.63 billion. Amazingly enough, our beginning FY 2018 Earning Reserves (ER) estimated value is $9.03 billion. The reason for this is that the Permanent Fund Corpus (the big bag of money) statutorily replenishes the ER every year.
The difference between the FY 2015 and FY 2018 budgets is 31.4%, FY16 and FY18 is 10%, and FY17 and FY18 is 10%. During 2015, all of the cuts came from the general fund and capital projects (roads, schools, community bridges, etc.).
Alaskans for a Sustainable Budget. For the past two years United for Liberty, and now Mission Critical Alaska (www. MissionCriticalAlaska.com) have been reporting where all of the money pots are hidden in the budgets created to run Alaska’s government.
HOME DÉCOR Cover Ups Designs ........ 746-4739
At this point we hope that you are asking yourself, “Why did the governor take half my Dividend in 2016 and why is the legislature trying to restructure the Permanent Fund, collect income and capital gains taxes, as well as reduce mineral resource earnings going into the Permanent Fund?”
This wealth of information is only useful if you seek it (www.legfin.akleg. gov/FisSum/DisplayReports.php)
PRINT SERVICES The UPS Store ........ 376-6245
If so, then thank you. If you are not asking yourself that question, then you need to ask Brad Keithley and Mission Critical Alaska to visit your community. Mr. Keithley has been advocating for sustainable budget for Alaska and explaining how to achieve one in person and on Facebook under
A relatively small group of people (about 300) have been trying to make sure that their communities are aware of these fiscal facts. Now they need all of us to become informed and speak out to the governor and the legislature to stop them in their tracks. We are obviously not and haven’t been in financial crisis. Now is the time and today is the day. We’re running out of time and days every moment you do not participate.
JEWELRY L Forge Jewelry ........ 232-9866 PIZZA Humdingers Pizza ........ 745-7499
RADIO 95.5 The Pass ........ 631-0877 REPAIR, RESTORATION Comtronics ........ 373-2669 Steve’s Toyostove…. 376-9276 RELAXATION The Tub House & Tanning….. 376-8827 SALONS Hello Darlin Salon.… 373-3307 Light It Up Head Shop…. 745-5483 SMOKE SHOPS Alaska Pipe Dreams ........ 746-1500 SPECIALTY GIFTS Alaska Midnite Scents ........ 357-7364
PRESS RELEASE The April Pick.Click.Give. pledge numbers are in and Alaskans have continued to give generously in the face of economic uncertainty. There are seventy-one Pick.Click.Give. organizations who are based out of the Mat-Su Valley or who consider the Mat-Su Valley residents a primary recipient of their services. Alaskans pledged $199,150 among these organizations, the top 10 pledge recipients being:
Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue $41,275 from 934 donors MatSu Food Bank (Food Pantry of Wasilla Food4Kids) - $12,425 from 225 donors MY House - $12,250 from 224 donors Alaska Equine Rescue - $8,300 from 176 donors Alaska Farmland Trust - $6,750 from 113 donors Alaska Assistance Dogs - $6,300 from 165 donors Radio Free Palmer 89.5 FM - $5,600 from 90 donors
Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center - $5,000 from 118 donors Jessica Stevens Community Foundation ACF - $4,950 from 57 donors KTNA Talkeetna - $4,800 from 58 donors Non-profit regions are categorized as geographically located in the 2016 U.S. Census Bureau report. For more information, visit www. alaskacf.org or call (907) 334-6700
THRIFT SHOPS Red Barn Thrift Store ........ 745-5050 Steam Driven Boutique ........ 376-4404 Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Stores ........ 376-5708 TOYS Just Imagine Toys ........ 357-1543
COMMUNITY / FAITH Contributed by Rabbi Mendy Greenberg, Mat-Su Jewish Center Chabad Lubavitch There are many ways to share a story. In choosing the proper genre, the storyteller must know the intended crowd and prepare accordingly. Passover is a time where Jewish people across the globe gather in homes or synagogues with family, friends or complete strangers and observe the traditional Seder dinner. An integral element of the Seder tradition is revisiting the narrative of the miraculous redemption of the
Contributed by Ray Southwell My wife, Faith, and I created three children. As they grew, they occasionally objected to our parental authority. (Especially in their teenage years.) As good parents, we never allowed such behavior. They would fully understand that we are the parents and they are the
Contributed by Brett Ahern When we think about Passover, it’s usually about the Hebrew’s exodus from Egypt. For Christians it may also include John the Baptist’s declaration, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” And Jesus’ crucifixion at Passover time is often blended into Easter’s observance. God packed a lot into the roots of Passover because He is revealing so much of His heart in it. God structured three land transition events for Israel to occur in a row at Passover. Israel left Canaan and entered Egypt on Passover (Exodus 12:41), left Egypt for the wilderness on Passover and left the wilderness to enter the Promised Land about Passover (Joshua 4:19). Each time it was a transition from one land to another, from one kingdom experience to another. This theme is utilized in the New Testament as part of the explanation as to what happens to us with our own personal Passover: accepting Jesus as our Messiah transitions us from the power of
Jewish nation from Egyptian slavery in 1313 B.C.E. Like everything on this consequential evening, there is a specific method to the storytelling of the exodus.
Even if there are no children at the table – the genre of the story remains the same: Educational. It is geared to engage the innocence of youth and a sensory experience throughout.
The Seder was designed with the intention of piquing the child’s curiosity, bringing about the realization that this night is different from all other nights. Upon noticing nuanced changes to the nightly dinner routine, the child catches on to the more radical and essential differences that are occurring.
The message of education pulses through the theme of the entire festival.
After the child unabashedly expresses puzzlement with the goings on, the parent is obligated to respond by explaining the dynamics of that historic event in our history.
children. They were pulled back to their natural place, as children, listening to their parents. We the people of Alaska, created our government. The people are the parents and government is the child. Today, the government in Juneau has stood up and opposed our parental authority. As the parents, are we strong enough to drag government back under our parental control? The answer is yes in
darkness into His Kingdom (Colossians 1:13-14). Much of Paul’s New Testament teaching launches with, “Don’t you know what has happened to you? You have transitioned! Why would you be that way when this is your new reality?” Joseph had to heal the divisions in his family to accomplish his Passover mission. His brothers sold him into slavery and God raised him up in Egypt to a leadership role, where he was able to create healing situations in his family. He turned them from a callous mob into a united family, willing to lay down their lives for one another. He brought love home. Miriam, Moses and Aaron each played a significant role in standing up to the Egyptian culture to accomplish the Exodus Passover for their people. Pharaoh ordered that all Hebrew male babies were to be killed at birth. Genocide had begun. Miriam participated in the rebellion when her mother placed her brother, baby Moses, in a basket to float down the Nile River. Miriam followed and risked death by volunteering to assist the royal family member who found him. Her name was popular
typical of the culture of Washington and Juneau. Contributed by Vic Kohring Jesus said in Matthew 5:44 to, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.” I’ve found loving my enemies to be one of life’s most difficult tasks and I’m sure many can relate. Who wants to love someone who hates you and wishes you harm? The Bible teaches that forgiving those who trespass against you is the crucial first step toward healing when wronged by another. And that includes, “Loving your neighbor as yourself,” as directed in Mark 12:31. It’s also a test of one’s sincerity as a Christian and a true measure of faith. Opening your heart and loving someone who has lashed out and caused you harm proves that God lives in you, and you therefore have no malice or desire to get even or harbor animosity as is so commonplace in today’s society, especially among politicians. John F. Kennedy once proudly boasted that, “I don’t get mad, I get even.” Not the right attitude, but
COMMUNITY & POLITICS PAGE 8
When you’ve been in the public eye for as long as I have and are the target of criticism as a strong private sector advocate, you naturally develop lots of opposition, especially from the liberal, pro-big government crowd. Most politicians shy away from such controversy because they’re too preoccupied with getting re-elected and don’t want to offend anyone. That’s why fundamental changes in society are so slow to occur, as very few have the courage to stick their neck out and risk the consequences. I chose to jump in the fray head first because I promised my constituents change. Yet it came with a big price. I’m blessed to have many friends, but a large number of people with bad intentions jumped on the anti-Vic bandwagon through the years because of my proactive conservatism, or simply because I worked hard and was achieving success. Even among my legislative colleagues in the capitol city, there were those so filled with narcissism, resentment and jealousy, that they remind me of a bunch of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wannabes running around seeking to sabotage others.
The freedom granted to the Jews over three millennia ago was the opportunity to educate. I am not referring to literacy and mathematics, of which the Jews had a thriving educational system during the two centuries of Egyptian slavery. However, it was an education devoid of meaning and purpose, steeped in the local cultural swamp of idolatry and the promotion of self.
a non-violent way. (As Faith and I did with our children.) The Founders gave the people a peaceful way to rein in our child called Government: Article XI of our State Constitution - The Referendum Process. This past January, a legal opinion was rendered on whether the people could use our parental authority through the referendum process if government taxed our Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). The answer was a resounding yes. There is a movement afoot to do just
throughout Israel’s history, and appears in the anglicized version of the New Testament as Mary. Joshua had to keep the people dedicated to functioning in divinely guided warfare to accomplish his Passover mission of taking them from the wilderness into the Promised Land. His name was also popular in Israel’s history, and also appears in its anglicized form in the New Testament as Jesus. Joseph’s family was dedicated to unity, Miriam/Mary was dedicated to cultural rebellion for the sake of her family and Joshua/Jesus was dedicated to keeping the nation united and separated from the surrounding cultures, as they possessed the Promise Land. At Passover, God established the three freedoms needed to develop a liberty people, able to live life richly with God. These three people also ‘happen’ to be in Jesus’ family: Joseph, Mary (Miriam) and Jesus (Joshua). These three names are there again at His crucifixion. Christ’s origin and destiny are infused with these three historical Passover experiences and persons. Uniting, rebelling and possessing are all needed
I think of one legislator whom I befriended after assisting with legislation, but who later became envious of my modest accomplishments. One day the temptation became too great when he chose to backstab me involving leftist press assaults alleging I did not live in Alaska because I owned Lower 48 property. This guy literally approached a newspaper reporter and claimed I was shirking constituent responsibilities because I was supposedly away on travel to my outside “home”, adding fuel to the fire. He might as well have handed the reporter a knife to stab me as he aided and abetted those bent on doing me in. And he was a Christian to boot. It was difficult to trust anyone at the capitol after that experience because if you can’t trust a friend and a fellow believer, who can you? Another individual, a former state commissioner turned lobbyist, was a friend for years that I assisted with projects of mutual importance. But when I became embroiled in the Polar Pen legal mess involving a silly bribery claim over a hundred bucks that also claimed U.S. Senator Ted Stevens, the guy became a turncoat by making false allegations about me on the witness stand. It turned out he was in legal hot water himself and was seeking favor of the prosecutors so he’d be let off the hook. He was even bought off by
Moses’s famous message to Pharaoh, “Let my people go!” was part of a crucial context so often overlooked. As recorded in the Bible, the full sentence reads (Exodus 10:3), “So says the God of the Hebrews, let my people go so that they may serve Me.” This was not merely a protest against a gross violation of human rights, rather an urgent call to allow a nation to realize their full potential. The opportunity to transcend the self and connect with the divine. Moses was not offering a vacation from harsh labor, he was leading the Jews a loftier service and goal. This universal message reverberates today more than ever. We are blessed to live in an era of unprecedented educational success, yet so many feel a lack of direction and purpose.
that. If our two legislative bodies come together and agree to tax our PFD, we will drive towards placing our child called Government, back in its natural place under the authority of the people. Understand the complexity of the process. Time to be a good parent, stand up and get involved with controlling our child’s bad behavior through the referendum process. Be a good parent, get involved.
for the fullness of Passover to be accomplished in us. For Christians being Christ’s active body, these are becoming our experiences and our personalities. This is who we are and what we do. We live Christ’s life to bring people into their needed Passover experience so they are free to progress in their relationship with God: uniting with His family, rebelling against the cultural diseases and possessing the life of God’s promises. Then they can go on to Pentecost’s giftedness and Sukkot/ Tabernacle’s fruitfulness. What is God developing in you this Passover? Unity, cultural rebellion or living in His Promises? What does this mean for your seven-week journey to Pentecost? Increasing your giftedness? Enabling you to develop more fruit of the Spirit? In your service to others, does one of these apply to your life circle at this time; to a part or all? Is God calling you to a dedication for a Passover role this coming year? In what way? It appears God’s heart for us at Passover is for us to ask ourselves deeply meaningful, purposeful and transformative questions.
the government for over 200 grand to testify against me. Money ultimately won out over principal and friendship. Sadly, this guy was also a professed Christian who attended a Wasilla church. As a mere human and imperfect Christian myself, I still struggle with an occasional hardened heart toward others from my past when reflecting back as I was scarred so heavily. My remedy is to seek God’s help to remain positive and not get bogged down with resentment. My goal is always to forgive, forget and to move on, but it’s not easy when you’ve been burned. I found it helps when I try to understand where someone is coming from as to why they choose to be hostile as people can be bitter for many reasons. They could have lost a loved one, are facing illness or simply frustrated with life and are seeking to vent. Ungodly influences might also play a role. It’s no excuse to despitefully use and treat others poorly, but it does help to know what motivates an individual as it makes it easier not to be so quick to judge. On the cross, Jesus looked down upon those who hated him and said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” If God’s own son can forgive and show love for his fellow man, I can too.
POLITICS / OPINION
COMMUNITY & POLITICS PAGE 9
budget deficit can be covered without taking hundreds of millions from the economy in the form of a tax or restricting the PFD. Contributed by Rep. Mark Neuman The state of Alaska is rich in natural resources, but mainly generates revenue from a single commodity - oil. Since the price of this oil has plateaued, Alaska has struggled to fund a government that is petroleum dependent. To solve this budget crisis, Governor Walker has proposed a number of revenue measures, and while some people seem to agree with these solutions, they are not truly addressing the problem. The way I see it is the issue Alaska faces is a distinct lack of diversity in
Contributed by Wes Keller Our ignorance of the Alaska Constitution is ultimately causing our fiscal mess! The Alaska Constitution was designed with noble, transparent intent to establish an abnormally strong governor, in part to protect us from the ever-overreaching landlord - the federal government. Also, it was presumed a strong, administrative government was needed to develop an infrastructure designed to fairly serve widely dispersed and diverse Alaskans. Success on these two counts is an open question, but there is unsettling evidence showing an extraordinarily strong governor has resulted in an abnormally influential executive branch with a huge appetite and correspondingly weakened legislative branch! This reminds me of the old cartoon duck character, Baby Huey, but it’s no laughing matter if Baby Huey is demanding and formidable when its food supply is threatened! Predictably, the weaker legislative branch is unable to do its part. Any vacuum in legislative leadership is automatically filled by the executive or judiciary branch in a declining spiral. The Alaska Constitution was ratified in 1956, and authorized a novel ‘tax’ to pay for the government it created. It is not called ‘tax’ in the constitution, but it is a tax by definition. (See http://weskeller.com/an-ode-to-taxes/ for more on this.) The 75% revenue gets spent just like tax revenue in other states and avoids political debates usually surrounding tax legislation. This constitutional revenue provision avoids much of the discomfort of competition between special interest groups in times of plenty, but it has created unrealistic spending expectations. Alaskans need to understand and remember what it means for Alaska’s natural resources to be commonly owned and ‘taxed’ before they allow for the expansion. If all natural resource revenue had been constitutionally taken the same way as the 75%, we would have clearly established a government patterned after classic communism! Instead, the other 25% instituted our fascinating, radical and unique Alaska Permanent Fund (PF), (Article 9.15). This portion of natural resource revenue is specifically restricted to prevent it from being wasted by an already well funded government. Ratification confirmed a compromise between all persons, the people and the state (named in the Preamble and Articles 1.1 and 2): Alaskans gave up potential private right of ownership of Alaska natural resources (see Article 8) in exchange for elimination of distasteful taxation politics. This was an acceptable deal if you naïvely assumed the state government would limit itself and elected legislators would act for the “maximum benefit” of Alaskans. Legislators later made laws to allow individual dividends to be paid directly to Alaskans (our PFD checks). However, we seem to be in imminent danger of the strong executive
developing revenue from resources. If the state remains dependent on the single resource of oil, then all of the revenue measures proposed by the governor could be levied against Alaskan families to fund government; but likely will be back for more funding and from a much poorer Alaska, within the decade. I simply cannot agree with Governor Walker’s revenue measures. He has removed over one billion dollars from the economy while proposing to tax even more money out of Alaskans’ pockets during a recession. With over fifteen billion dollars in reserves, the two and half billion dollar
branch influencing the legislature to spend the restricted PF earnings. If this happens, Article 9.15 (PF) will be shown to be nothing but a cruel joke. Ratifiers (1956 voters) could not have guessed: The wild extravagance of revenue source (the 75%) and how it would someday produce an unappreciated ‘sugar daddy’ government. The 25% would be so successfully invested, thanks to the standards put in place by the legislature as constitutionally directed. Then, the legislature would later decide to restrict dividends to keep more in the savings, creating a close to $10 billion reserve! Stunningly, this reserve now has enough money to hypothetically pay $4,000 PFDs for approximately eight years and still have more than $2 billion in reserve! This accounting uses the same projections as the governor and confirmed by the legislature! If the state still “needs” money so badly, the legislature could then exercise its constitutional power to tax back what it needs in full political view of all Alaskans! Who could guess future Alaskans would forget that their natural resources are the source of extravagant spending (80 billion dollars over the past forty years!) or that they could someday be successfully lobbied by a governor to give up their ownership of the reserved 25% (PF) investment returns? Amazingly, Alaskans seem to be falling for the misleading and false guilt trip stating we pay far less taxes than any other state! So why has the legislature not simply squashed this lobbying? This is a particularly tough question for me as a recently retired legislator. I am troubled to know some of my closest friends and mentors seem to be folding on this! I refuse to view them as big spenders or liars because I know them well and highly respect them. However, I am convinced they are pawns in a high stakes chess game. Which is the real problem because they are pawns by design! Don’t make the mistake of thinking the courts are a source of justice on this issue. Our executive imbalance has resulted in a judicial system priding itself in “justice not politics”, which is a coded way of saying justice is not served by having more public input than they want! The Alaska judicial system is set up to be joined at the hip with Baby Huey! The governor appoints the attorney general elected in other states. The governor appoints all Supreme Court justices. Ultimately the courts are exactly like other state agencies, with a natural conflict of interest related to state spending. It is important to remember this imbalance anomaly does not cancel out the best things about the Alaska Constitution. Article I essentially reiterates the US Bill of Rights with the same deference to our God-given human rights. The first words verify sovereignty belongs to the people, not the state! The values of the US Constitution are evident, but weak in the balance needed to restrain some unflattering elements of human nature, such as greed, selfishness, pride, deception and anger.
If the problem is addressed, we would be able to focus on selling our resources. The way we approach this issue is through comprehensive regulation reform, overhauling the barriers that prevent the state from being able to provide a sensible business climate and allowing the private sector to grow and thrive. To ensure this, Alaskans need to keep both the legislature and the administration’s feet to the fire. We must demand Alaska be a better place for companies to invest in, and not just for large industry, but for small businesses that want to grow. I believe it is absolutely the worst thing that
Contributed by Rep. David Eastman There’s a memorable scene in the classic Christmas movie, It’s A Wonderful Life, that aptly sums up what is taking place in Juneau this year. In the scene, Jimmy Stewart passionately explains to his neighbors how the local tycoon’s offer to take over the town’s insolvent bank in exchange for their rights as stockholders really isn’t as generous as it sounds. Alaskans today face an orchestrated campaign designed to convince them that their future is inexorably tied to the continued government take-over of our economy and that they should abandon their investment in any other future. It’s a powerful message. No doubt some reading this have already been convinced. The message is not geared for those who work for the state. No, state employees and contractors don’t need to be convinced. Their future really is tied up in the growth of state government. It’s all the rest of us that this campaign is directed at. Under this campaign, threatening Alaskan veterans and seniors with fake eviction notices is A-Okay if it results in Mat-Su residents telling their legislators to pass an income tax. In fact, the greater the hysteria, the greater the effect. As with any bailout, the overarching goal boils down to one basic thing: to push consequences off of state government and onto somebody (everybody) else. State government is what must come first. It is the truly essential part of our state: “The people may come and go, but we must take care of the government.” Do you see what is happening? Special interests rallied together to put a governor into office. That governor has now put them and the state agencies they partner with to the front of the line. Voila! Time for a government bailout! Note: Even though we have over $15 billion in reserves, we call this a fiscal crisis. Of course, it’s not a fiscal crisis (which is why we have to resort to “fiscal terrorism” of Alaska’s seniors to try to generate support for more taxes). In actuality, it’s a government crisis. But who among us is moved to action by hearing that state government has been spending more than our economy can sustain and needs to cut back? What’s new? Yep, that about sums up what is taking place in the capitol this year. The governor demanded more money from Alaskans last year (and more money to government), and he has now terrorized various groups of people (including seniors, vets and those who drive on KGB) into going along with it. The Senate just passed a statewide tax that will take $5,000 from every family of four this year, and that’s just the PFD cut. By convincing the legislature to redirect the dividend and the earnings of the Permanent Fund from Alaska’s
we can do to the state to take over a billion dollars out of the economy when we are headed into a recession and losing jobs by the tens of thousands; especially when we still have the money in savings. Alaska will continue to be nothing but a harvest state and industry will continue to ship resources out of state, adding thousands of miles of transportation costs so that they can create jobs and economies elsewhere. It appears that we cannot develop enough of our resources to fund a government to meet the needs of only 700,000 people. Hold your legislator’s feet to the fire of accountability. Insist on further reductions, and just as important, insist on regulation reform to help change Alaska into a better place to conduct business into the future.
private sector to state government, he has “solved the crisis” and is every bit the hero of the state public sector. And while the private sector now experiences the recession even more painfully than it otherwise would have, significant portions of state government get to celebrate that the crisis of downsizing has been averted yet again. You ask me how this arrangement can continue? Well of course it can’t, because there is only so much permanent fund money to go around and the appetite of government is limitless. Alaskans allowed their representatives in the State House to approve spending more than $4 billion of the permanent fund earnings this year. Think about that. The straw has hardly been placed in the fund, and the vote was to suck out more than $4 billion in the very first swallow! Talk about unsustainable! Alaskans need to lay the smack down and fight for a future in which we still have a permanent fund when my kids graduate high school. Yes, as a resident of Alaska, you are a shareholder (whether you like it or not). If that makes you feel uncomfortably responsible, that’s probably a good thing. You and I each own shares in the future of Alaska, and in the permanent fund that has permitted Alaska’s economy to continue to be as “normal” as it is today. Without that permanent fund, you would see a smaller state economy today, less support for local government and an even smaller private sector. You would also see the state with a lower credit rating, higher taxes, less investment in Alaska on account of the higher taxes and an Alaskan economy that looked a bit more like Puerto Rico’s. (Note: That’s not a good thing). You’re invested in this great state simply by living here, and a governor I know would love to take your shares in exchange for a short-term government subsidy. The existence of a fiscal crisis is the justification for those invested in state government to do what they’ve always wanted to do - crack the code on how to get Alaskans to redirect the permanent fund earnings to government and away from the private sector. Amazingly, they’ve already convinced enough legislators to do this, in a time when Alaskans are having to lose their health insurance because they can no longer afford it. Oh, and they now tax you for that too! And while some Alaskans are trying to find the money to pay the tax for not having healthcare insurance, the state House of Representatives just voted to pass another $650 million in new broad-based taxes on all Alaskans. Government crisis solved! Government isn’t shrinking in Alaska today. It’s just increasing its market share over the private sector.
PETS & ANIMALS
PETS & ANIMALS
PAGE 10
Contributed by Angie Lewis, Alaska Animal Advocates
Contributed by Tracy Smith Matanuska Susitna Borough Animal Care & Regulation 907-761-7501 Tucker is six years old and is very much in need of the right home. He has the potential to be a great dog with the right handler and environment. First and foremost, Tucker must go to a home with no children and no other animals. It’s not that Tucker hates other animals or dislikes children, but his training needs are such that he shouldn’t be trusted around children at this time, and he needs all of his human’s attention for his training.
We believe Tucker is a misunderstood fella who needs a human with the right training approach. Kind, respectful and positive boundaries that teach Tucker the joys of pleasing his humans would suit him well.
In fact, the American Kennel Club states that most dogs sleep between 12-14 hours a day. That is more than half their life! If your dog is not actually sleeping, she is very often in a lounging state. Sleep patterns are different for dogs than they are for humans. A dog is a very adaptable sleeper, able to jump up at the sound of a knock on the door and then fall asleep again in a moment. This can happen frequently throughout the day. Although dogs sleep more hours than we do, they also awaken more often.
Contributed by Tracy Smith Matanuska Susitna Borough Animal Care & Regulation 907-761-7501
Her current guardian is going to be very particular about the family that plans on adopting Princess, because she is such a special dog. If you plan on adopting her, please make sure that you are home a great deal, so that you can develop a strong bond with this gal. Princess will run off, looking for adventures, so must be on a leash or in a fenced yard when outdoors. If you would like to meet Princess or learn more about her, please call Helen at 715-8198 or Angie at Alaska Animal Advocates at 8413173
Once she feels safe, Jinx is a rambunctious, playful cat who has enjoyed the company of other cats. Here at the shelter, Jinx is enjoying our community cat room. She has a lot of bounce, curiosity and friendliness. Jinx interacts well with the other cats, and is always eager to socialize with her visitors.
Tucker is food aggressive and will need to be trained out of that behavior gently and patiently using techniques known to help dogs not be food aggressive. He has not been
Cats have a reputation for sleeping all the time, but they aren’t the only ones – dogs sleep a lot too.
Princess loves to play ball and interact with other dogs and cats. There will be no mice in her castle, as she is a very competent mouser!
Jinx is a three year old indoor cat. She is litter box and scratchy post trained. Jinx likes to chew on plants, so a potential adopter must beware of allowing her access to plants that may be toxic to cats. Jinx is a very gentle lap cat, but she is shy and can take a while to come around. It could take Jinx a while to become calm and feel safe in a new environment.
Tucker also needs a handler that can earn his trust with a gentle voice and a gentle manner. Tucker has rebelled against a “no-nonsense” approach to training in the past by growling and bearing his teeth when being told what to do. The shelter has evaluated him as a fearful dog who will become aggressive if his fears are not respected and positive reinforcement not given.
Contributed by Angie Lewis, President of Alaska Animal Advocates
We should all have a Princess, at least once in our lifetime. This royal Lab Retriever mix, is approximately five years old and is as sweet a dog as you will ever meet.
destructive when left alone in the home and he is house-trained, but he has occasionally marked his territory in the house. Tucker has learned to sit, lay down and shake, but he doesn’t always want to listen. He will also dash out the door if you aren’t paying attention and can slip that collar right over his head.
Like humans, a dog’s sleep habits are influenced by their age, size, health, breed, activity level and life circumstances. In terms of age, older dogs and puppies require more sleep than an adult dog. A puppy can sleep approximately eighteen hours per day. Large dogs typically need more sleep than smaller dogs A dog’s breed also impacts the amount of sleep that they needs. “Working” dogs, such as Huskies or Border Collies, sleep less because their genetic makeup has programmed them to be more attentive and dedicated to their work. Most tiny dogs do not have a job to do, except for loving their guardians, and therefore have more time on their hands for sleeping. Some dogs become bored if they are home alone for many hours a day and will sleep a great deal throughout the day. A dog living with an active family requires less sleep than a dog in a sedentary family. Dogs who sleep outside get less sleep than dogs
who are indoors, living as a part of your family, as they should. Changes in a dog’s routine, such as a new family member, a move or the loss of a beloved family member are likely to cause stress in your dog. Much like a human, dogs can show signs of stress by sleeping more. This sleep pattern often reverts to a more typical sleep style once your dog has adapted to the stressful situation. Once again, just like a person, a dog will sleep more if she is not feeling well or is injured. Increases in the amount of time your dog sleeps can be an indicator of a physical problem. Check with your veterinarian if this issue arises for your dog. Next time your dog is sleeping, observe her and you will notice that her breathing rate slows, as does her heart rate and blood pressure and her temperature drops. In about ten
minutes, she will be in the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) phase of sleep. This is when you can see eye movement under closed lids and when she may start dreaming, evidenced by whimpering or running in her sleep. So now that you have learned a bit more about your dog’s sleeping style, invite her up to your bed and have a good night’s sleep together! For more information, email Alaska Animal Advocates at aaarescue@ yahoo.com or call 841-3173.
COMMUNITY Contributed by Bethany Buckingham Wasilla Centennial Block Party 5/20/2017 – 11AM City of Wasilla Downtown Wasilla FREE Event Celebrate Wasilla’s 100th anniversary with our Centennial Block Party on Saturday, May 20th from 11am4pm. Event is open to the public and admission is free. Enjoy vendors, wagon rides, family activities and more. Kick off the summer season with us and learn more about Wasilla’s history.
Participate in historic games and add your piece of history to Wasilla’s story. Let’s celebrate Wasilla’s heritage in style! Chad Carpenter will be here to sign autographs and talk more about his upcoming movie. There will also be a sidewalk chalk drawing competition for children and adults (weather permitting). So come on out and bring the whole family for fun in downtown Wasilla. For more information or to get involved as a vendor or volunteer, contact the Dorothy Page Museum and 373-9071 or visit www.cityofwasilla.com/museum For a full calendar of events for Wasilla’s Centennial visit us online at cityofwasilla.com/centennial
COMMUNITY
Contributed by Carrielee Dunphy Mother’s Day Bazaar 5/6/2017 – 10AM Big Lake Lions Club East Lake Mall 3261 S Big Lake Road, Big Lake FREE Admission The Big Lake Lions Club will be holding its annual Mother’s Day Bazaar on Saturday, May 6, 2017 at the East Lake Mall in Big Lake. The bazaar will be from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
PAGE 11
handmade candles, 24KT Jewelry, wood carvings, bulk herbs and teas, oils, seasonings, unique hair barrettes, personal aroma therapy pens and much, much more. Spend the day shopping and having lunch at out wonderful eateries located inside the Mall. There is also a huge garage sale just down the road at the Big Lake Elementary School.
Get your mother the perfect gift from our numerous, talented vendors.
A few vendor spaces are still available. Vendor spaces are 4x8. Please call Kim at 982-6088 to reserve your space.
Enjoy handmade chocolates, handpainted dishes, LuLaRoe clothing, Magnolia and Vine fashions, aprons,
For additional information, please call Kim at 982-6088 or Carrie at 892-8687
Contributed by Glenn Butts (The Dude) Rally 2 The Ranch 6/3/2017 – 10AM Nugen’s Ranch Northway Mall 3101 Penland Pkwy, Anchorage FREE Event The 4th annual Rally 2 the Ranch is happening on June 3, 2017. We will start at 10am at the Northway Mall in Anchorage and end at 1pm at Nugen’s Ranch (Knik Rd. Wasilla). We hold the event to help bring awareness to the recovery that’s needed from the rampant abuse of drugs and alcohol in our community. The Ranch is Alaska’s only adult recovery “long term” center we have. It’s a terrific facility located at the end of Knick Road outside of Wasilla. It has an open house fun day that the whole community is invited to, and our rally ends at the ranch just in time to enjoy the festivities.
We in the motorcycle community have seen the hardships that drugs and alcohol can do to families first hand. We hold this event to bring the recovery that’s possible to the community by putting on this run every year to get the public involvement by joining us for an awesome ride out to the Ranch. Enjoy the fun and food that the ranch provides free of charge to all that show. This way people who want to find out more about the recovery that happens out there, can get firsthand information. So please join us for a fun time that all will enjoy. You don’t need a motorcycle, just follow us out on our ride from Northway Mall to Nugen’s Ranch or just join in at one of the stops along the way. Times and stops are on the flyer provided on our Facebook site @Rally 2 the Ranch. Thanks for your time and God bless, Glen Butts, The Dude
COMMUNITY
Contributed by Jim Faiks Did you know that Alaska has the highest ratio of baby boomers to the total population compared with any of the lower 48 states?
developments. There are also smaller, ranch style home developments in Willow and Houston for those who prefer a more natural setting. Most of these homes have a waiting list, a sensitive subject for seniors.
Our neighbors, aged 65 and older, represent the fastest growing segment of Alaska’s population. In fact, our senior growth rate is four times the national average. Young adults came to Alaska in big numbers during the oil boom of the 70s and 80s, and many stayed. Now that their children and grandchildren live here, seniors are not leaving.
This spring, the community of Big Lake is introducing its first gated subdivision designed for those newly retired. Comfortably located just a mile from the town center is the Oasis at Birch Lake. This new 22 unit development is out of the wind-belt of Palmer and Wasilla, and offers high quality yet affordable lakefront homes with not a step to be found.
It is quite obvious that seniors love Alaska, and that they love the Mat-Su in particular. It is estimated that by the year 2030 our senior population will double and even triple for those aged 75 to 85. Accommodating this “graying tsunami” poses challenges and great opportunities for our communities.
The first four homes are nearing completion just in time for the returning swans and sand hill cranes. Alaskan seniors know the importance of southern exposure for one’s mental and physical health, and sunshine is abundant at the Oasis. The view of the mountains is an extra plus.
Many seniors are staying active and healthy well into their 90s, and they strive to remain independent for as long as possible. (I recently met a lady in her late 80s who competes in the senior Olympics doing the hammer throw. That’s impressive.) One challenge all seniors face is finding a home that provides a barrierfree design so they can live there comfortably as they age (like a fine wine). The housing options for Valley seniors are growing, but most of these homes are rentals with income restrictions. In addition, most are located in larger adult communities like the Palmer Senior Center, the Wasilla Senior Center and some private
Contributed by Aletha Harrington NeighborWorks® Alaska is pleased to announce that Jim Nordlund has been named executive director. From journeyman carpenter, commercial fisherman, state legislator, Director of Public Assistance for the State of Alaska to Alaska State Director of Rural Development for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Nordlund is a longtime Alaskan with seasoned statewide experience. Jim was also a housing rehabilitation specialist for Anchorage Neighborhood Housing Services, NeighborWorks® Alaska’s original name, in the early eighties. NeighborWorks® Alaska’s staff and board are delighted to have found such a qualified and experienced leader, intimately familiar with Alaska’s
Seniors are cost conscious and appreciate the five star plus energy ratings along with the convenience of natural gas. This project even has free RV parking for the “snow birds”. You can see more pictures of the Oasis on Facebook at “The Oasis at Birch Lake”. Seniors provide a positive economic boost to local businesses while at the same time requiring fewer community services. They don’t need a school for their children and they don’t keep law enforcement as busy as does the younger population. Instead, they like to volunteer locally and they eat early at our restaurants. Having many housing options for our seniors is good for all businesses in the Valley.
rural and urban communities, and are confident that Nordlund is the perfect fit to lead and effectively implement our new statewide strategic direction and business plan. Tony Piper, NeighborWorks® Alaska board chair said, “After a long and rigorous search, the board is excited and honored to welcome Jim Nordlund as our next executive director and the new face of NeighborWorks® Alaska. His unique set of skills, experience and leadership correspond wonderfully with our mission and vision for the future of Alaska.” Nordlund formally began his duties on April 10th. Prior to that, he attended the NeighborWorks® Executive Director Symposium on March 22rd-23rd in Washington DC.
COMMUNITY
Contributed by Jaida Gough, Boom Town Derby Dames United We Roll Alaska State Tournament May 5-7, 2017 – 11AM Boom Town Derby Dames Menard Sports Center 1001 S Clapp St. Wasilla Cost: $5-$50 At the beginning of April, Boom Town Derby Dames welcomed Kenai’s Far North Derby for a game that featured new skaters on each team. Boom Town introduced three new skaters to their lineup, O’Behave, Checker Vitals and Quilty Pleasure. The pregame nerves started Tuesday and continued until Saturday night when the first game whistle blew. Boom Town won, 215 to 125, and both teams had a great time. O’Behave ended the game jamming for the first time and became lead jammer! In other exciting roller derby news, Boom Town is hosting the United We Roll Alaska state tournament. The
Contributed by Paula Nance In a special ceremony, the Wasilla Warrior High School Music Boosters held a ribbon cutting for their new Warrior Music coffee cart. Sertoman’s Warren Foster, Sondra Kaplan and Paula Nance were pleased to be present for the event.
PAGE 12
tournament will be held May 5th-7th at the Curtis Menard Center in Wasilla. You can find tickets online at Brown Paper Tickets or at the door. Each spectator pass is only $15 and is good for the entire weekend. This year’s UWR tournament will include seven teams from around the state who will vie for the championship. In addition to the seven teams, the spectator pass will also give you access to watch the coed game, rookie games and juniors games. What a deal! A timeline for specific games can also be found online at www.boomtownrollerderby. org. The tournament is a great time to watch different teams from all over the state compete and is a one-stopshop for all your statewide roller derby merchandise. The tournament always marks the end of Boom Town’s season, but look for us out in the community during 4th of July and our annual fundraising garage sale! Hope to see you at the Menard!
In 2016, the Wasilla Warrior Music Booster Program received grant funds from the annual Mat-Su Sertoma Plunge to establish a coffee cart at the high school that will help sustain their music program. Sertoma was pleased to be a part of it!
until today, NeighborWorks® Alaska has grown to become a significant source of affordable housing and neighborhood development in Anchorage and Alaska,” Nordlund said. “I look forward to continuing this important mission.” As a member of NeighborWorks® America’s almost 250 member network of community development organizations, NeighborWorks® Alaska is committed to creating opportunities for people to live in affordable homes, improve their lives and strengthen their communities.
NeighborWorks® Alaska is dedicated to improving the quality of life for families and individuals by preserving homes, creating new housing opportunities and strengthening neighborhoods. For 35 years, we have walked thousands of Alaskans from vulnerability to security. Our vision is an Alaska where everyone has a place to call home. We provide access to success by offering affordable housing options, maintaining top quality properties, equipping aspiring homeowners with loans and financial management tools and collaborating on neighborhood revitalization projects. We’re committed to building vibrant communities statewide.
NeighborWorks® Alaska believes in stable housing, thriving families and strong communities.
“I am very pleased to be joining the NeighborWorks® family once again. From my first professional job in Alaska
For more information about NeighborWorks® Alaska visit our website at www.nwalaska.org