The People's Paper June 2017

2017 ART ON FIRE EVENT

page 8 of MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE (inside)

Contributed by Laurie Kari Cardboard City Mat-Su 7/21/2017 - All Night Family Promise Mat-Su Alaska State Fairgrounds, Palmer 2075 Glenn Hwy. Palmer Cost: $50 Donation Minimum Family Promise Mat-Su, your community response for families without housing, is holding our 10th Annual Cardboard City Fundraiser/Outreach on July 21st. Registration is online at familypromisematsu.org, on the Cardboard City tab.

The more participants the better, to fund our homeless guests’ services!

The idea is to raise a minimum of $50 in pledges from friends and relatives to sleep in a cardboard box overnight.

This year we are also adding vehicles to the sleeping option (a more realistic situation for homeless families when they come into our program). No RVs please.

And sorry, the Fairgrounds will not allow pets, even though pets are included in our shelter!

Our Cardboard City events are family-friendly, with live music (Adele Morgan, guitar sing-alongs), Country Legends will be broadcasting live, soup and bread line, box/car decorating contest with judging by area realtors and a few Valley speakers who know the most about our community homeless issues and current solutions.

We arrive at the green gate of the Alaska State Fairgrounds at 5pm on Friday the 21st of July. You may register onsite, but you may not get a t-shirt. Cardboard boxes are provided. Bring decorating supplies!

Business sponsorships are direly needed for our fundraising success.

We have info packets at our office for businesses to peruse, or we can deliver them to you.

Any questions? The staff at Family Promise can answer them, or register you over the phone!

(907) 357-6160.

Hope to see you all there, we need you!

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Contributed by Brandi Kinney The 2017 5K Zombie Run had a great turn out thanks to good weather and all of our amazing volunteers, runners and community supporters! This year’s special guests included Mayor Burt Cottle, Brenna Bourassa from Q99.7 and our exchange students from Brazil and South Africa.

For many years the Rotary 5K Run has been around, always with the goal to raise money to assist our local high school students in pursuing further education. So it is no surprise that this year alone, we awarded $13,000 in scholarships to many deserving students.

We would like to congratulate our first female winner of the 5K, Cory Barber, coming in with a time of 20 minutes and 15 seconds, in addition to being the first place winner for the 19-40 category!

All of our runners did a marvelous job and we would like to give special recognition to our first place winners in each category.

5K Zombie Run Winners Cory Barber: 20:15 (19-40 Age Group) Terry Jackson: 22:37 (19-40 Age Group) Avery Park: 28:06 (15-18 Age Group) Bryan Dyer: 29:08 (15-18 Age Group) Craig Thorn: 28:54 (41+ Age Group) Carolyn Lambrecht: 29:39 (41+ Age Group)

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Contributed by Tina Smith Every year, Midnight Greenery takes part in different aspects of community involvement, from organizing an annual community cleanup and food drives to involvement in communityfocused PSAs and political campaigns.

This year’s cleanup will probably be one of my all-time favorites; it was productive, as well as inspiring.

It made picking up other people’s garbage kind of fun. Ok, fun and trash together is not entirely accurate, but the day was fun nonetheless.

When coordinating our focus this year, I remembered the spring cleanup campaign organized by the Borough.

So we decided to focus there instead of at the Wasilla parks, as we have done in the past. I contacted the Natural Resources Department and asked where we could best focus our efforts as a group of ten or more.

I was a bit nervous when we were given one of the busiest areas in the Borough during the camping kick-off weekend of the year - Old Knik Bridge public access area on Memorial Day weekend! Uh, what? We thought we would get a nice sedate trail or park, like in the past! Next thought being, “Let’s do this! We have faced scarier things and done it smiling, why not!

(Rush hour traffic on the corner of Parks and Palmer Wasilla during campaign season was scarier and we did that smiling.)”

Then the gross reality hit me. We were going to be cleaning up other people’s campsites. Yuck! Some people are just really gross! Honestly, there is just no gentle way to say it, just really gross!

The things that some people leave behind when camping make me ill and angry at the same time. Diapers and glass (being my least favorite) were available in abundance. The most interesting were car parts, like alternators and full headlight units.

There was even a full set of mattress springs found. This was a local camp area, not the refuse center that

Contributed by Eddie Ezelle, Executive Director The Food4Kids summer program of the MatSu Food Bank is off to a bang of a start, serving free lunches to kids 18 and under.

The first week was cloudy, a little rainy and unseasonably cool, but we still served a surprising number of kids.

Into the second and third week, it has only increased. With sunny weather (even rain), the parks are being well used by all. We serve in five locations (see our website for more information) around Wasilla, Monday to Friday.

A child cannot think about life lessons if they are hungry. All they can think about is where or when they are going to be able to eat. The saying, healthy bodies equal healthy minds, is true in more ways than we know. (Yes, I know it’s backwards.) One way we support healthy kids is through the Food4Kids program. And don’t forget the Country Legend’s 100.9 “Million Pennies” campaign to help the Food4Kids. For more information check out www.

MatSuFoodBank.org.

At the same time, the MatSu Food Bank has been preparing for the increasing tide of people who are hurting due to things like the lack of a budget for the State of Alaska (could be taxes and PFDs smaller) to layoffs and general fears of what will happen at the federal level with healthcare and reductions in SNAP benefits (formerly Food Stamps). People are trying to budget for the unknown.

That is difficult in the best of times.

We are seeing an increase almost daily of families that are having problems

one may believe when seeing the collection gathered.

By itself, this seems so very depressing and makes one think, “Is this the best we can do? Allowing even our areas to escape and enjoy nature, be overrun by garbage?”

Thankfully the inspiring part of the day had already started to happen about thirty minutes after we arrived to the public access/camping area.

It was something to witness firsthand, and it restored my faith in the power of inspiration.

I believe it all started with a conversation I overheard between three little girls. They were out exploring the campground and having fun, as one would expect with kids on a fun camping weekend, when they happened by our staging area where a few of the MG cleanup crew had started gathering garbage. One being a teenager who caught the attention of these little girls. This was when I overheard one say to her two companions, “Look at the girl! They’re picking up garbage, we should do that!” Five minutes later they were back with an adult, asking to help!

They were even willing to pay for the bags before learning they were free.

Before long campers from throughout the campground were getting involved and cleaning up the area around them, in the trails and

making ends meet while some are holding two jobs. This is early in the summer seasonal jobs, so it is not a good trend.

It is somehow odd that our society gives more to animal care before we give to our own neighbors who don’t have enough to eat.

Here in the Mat Su Borough, we have people who want to cut what little funding we have, thinking they are saving millions for the local government. This is not always true.

We are talking less than $500,000.00 that consists of State and Borough matching monies to cover as many as thirty-five agencies that apply for a small part of this money. Not all agencies qualify for any of this funding.

There are foundations that pick various areas of current concerns to fund, but ongoing donations must come from corporate sponsors, various organizations such as churches or civic organizations and especially from you, the individual.

We rely strongly on your monetary donations to keep our doors open to give out free food. It doesn’t always make sense to people, but we must collect, transport, store and distribute the food collected and that requires operating capital. The MatSu Food Bank helps smaller agencies too that may not be able to collect, transport or store food and we do not charge fees to handle any of these food donations. The MatSu Food Bank absorbs these costs with your generous help.

With the harder times, we are trying to

neighboring empty sites. We ran out of bags at one point and had to send for more. Kudos to those three little girls who made cleanup part of their fun and inspiring others to follow.

This really was perfect timing and placement to be the most effective as a cleanup crew. Like I mentioned earlier, I did worry that organizing it during the busy weekend would be a waste; yet watching the involvement from the campers on Sunday was amazing. I would like to think that when those that were helping clean today leave tomorrow, their campsites are better than when they arrived.

Maybe the next time they use a public-use area, they will be more aware of how they leave their sites.

Here’s a thought: Can you imagine how much nicer and cleaner our publicuse camping areas would be if during all the big camping holidays (like the 4th of July), different companies organized cleanups focused on high traffic camp areas?

We would not only keep it clean, but remind those camping what they can do to help, inspiring others to pay attention to their environment while doing a great give back as a company or organization.

This is such a beautiful place to live and I’m thankful every day for my view from any direction in the Valley, let’s all do our part to keep it naturally beautiful.

prepare for the swell of those in need and ask for your help. Please donate any amount you can, knowing it is helping multiple people who need “a hand up, not a hand out”.

Contact the MatSu Food Bank at 501 E. Bogard Wasilla, AK 99654, call us at 357-3769 or go online at www.MatSuFoodBank.org and look for the donate button and check out the volunteer information while you’re there.

You can make a one-time donation or a sustaining, ongoing monthly contribution in an amount you feel is comfortable for your budget. Every dollar helps. Won’t you please help?

Vote for your community by spending and supporting locally.

Thank you for supporting your local community.

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was accomplished by a committee of dedicated FBC members from various demographic groups.

Knowing that families are the heart of FBC worship, service and ministry, a recreational complex will be an added tool for helping meet the needs of families.

Contributed by First Baptist Church, Palmer Recently, First Baptist Church Palmer held a groundbreaking service for a new Community Family Recreation Complex. The complex includes a safe green space, a park and recreation area that affords quality opportunities for family and social connection, physical exercise, playgrounds and sports recreation. Not only for families who attend First Baptist Church, the complex will be open for all families who live in the neighborhoods close by and in the Valley.

First Baptist Church is positioned on top of the hill, across the Glenn Highway from the Alaska State Fairgrounds. According to the City of Palmer’s statistics, there are almost 1,000 single-family homes and over 200 multi-family housing units within a three-mile radius of this site, and most within one mile.

FBC Pastor, Dr. Bruce Rowell, explains, “This complex will attract and be accessible to thousands of families and individuals outside this area.”

Having a place to belong and gather with community members, he said, “The geographic location makes this Family Recreation Complex a convenient resource for individuals and families to stop by after work or school for a brisk walk or jog around the track or to meet on the weekends for a soccer match, softball game, a picnic or just to be together.

The work of planning and laying the groundwork for the complex

“Meeting the needs of families is one of the reasons why I wanted to be a part of this new ministry,” said team chairperson, James Jenkins, Jenkins is recently retired from the U.S. Army, and he and his wife moved to Palmer from Ohio.

Serving on the committee with Jenkins is Shane Seltzer, whose family including their four children, are active members of FBC, teaching Sunday school classes, discipleship classes and more. “I am excited to have the complex for my children as they grow. We live close to the church and being able to bring them to a safe place to play close to home is important.”

Out of town for the groundbreaking was Nathan Machacek who also served on the planning committee.

Machacek and his family are long-term residents of Alaska and understand the importance of family recreation for healthy families.

Participating in the service were Deacons Kenny Loggins and his wife, Vickie, and Ken Ishmael and wife, Donna. Mrs. Loggins is a preschool and children’s teacher.

“I know this will be a fun place for many children’s activities and for families to come together to play in a safe and fun environment,” said Mrs. Loggins. “I am wholeheartedly behind this ministry,” said Mrs. Ishmael, who is also a FBC children and youth teacher. “Knowing our children will have a bigger place to play with more fun options is important as we plan meeting the needs of growing families.”

Contributed by Michael Consalo Where to go on Friday night?

It can be a tough question sometimes in the Valley.

Of course in the summer, many of us like to go out camping and fishing with our families. And rightfully so!

Alaska offers the most beautiful scenery, trails and parks! So what about the rest of us that are hanging our here?

Thanks to City of Wasilla, Hatcher Pass Radio 95.5 and The People’s Paper, we want you to kick off your family’s summer with a free, community concert series! On June 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th from 6pm9pm, we will have live local music, food trucks and local vendors right in the middle of Iditapark!

This is a great opportunity to get the kids outdoors and interested in local music, something our kids and community desperately need.

This year, we had local art submitted for our poster by Sara SquartsoffMckinley, and next year will have an art submission contest and hopefully start to include more art with vendors, exhibits and more!

Vendors will have fun activities for kids and parents, and the food trucks will be rolling in flavors from all across the state! Best of all, we have a ton of prizes to give away on all four nights!

Other active deacons and their wives, Bob and Donna Mauldin and Marty and Etta Weatherup, were also among those participating in the groundbreaking.

The Family Recreation Complex will serve as a local resource where people can engage in individual and family athletics and different exercise activities. “Not only is the space planned for recreation and play, but included in the plan is a pavilion picnic area which will be available for family and community connection in a quiet, safe, tobacco and smoke-free environment,” said Pastor Rowell.

Young children will have a place to connect with one another as they run and play on two separate age-appropriate playgrounds.

“This complex will truly be a place where individuals, families and the community can come together, as well as improve their health while having fun, getting to know one another better and even meeting new friends that carry over into other aspects of their lives,” explained Dr. Rowell.

Phase I will involve surveying, clearing and grading 3-4 acres of FBC property followed by laying the foundation for a future walking/jogging track and hydro seeding grass. Phase II includes completion of a walking track, building two age–appropriate playgrounds and construction of a pavilion.

“Beginning last fall, church members committed to the financial and spiritual success of this ministry,” said Pastor Rowell. “Everything the church can accomplish is through the blessings of God, freely shared by individuals with open hearts and hands.”

“As children joined their teachers and other adults in breaking the ground for this new complex, we are dedicating this space anew and this ministry to the vision of the future of FBC,” said Pastor Rowell. The spiritual well-being of FBC members and the outreach ministries to others is part of the mission of FBC.

The Pass @ The Park is going to be a yearly event, encouraging our community to come together and enjoy the wonderful park facilities and live music! In times of endless hours on the computer and electronics, we want you to have options!

I remember my first concert that my parents took me to. I was amazed by the instruments, sound equipment and lighting. It was captivating.

This free concert series gives our youth a chance to be a part of what we all love, while having fun at the park.

Thanks to the support and vision of The City of Wasilla, including Mayor Bert Cottle, Dep. Admin. Lyn Carden, Joan Klapperich and the Public Works Department, Matsu families can come together for a memorable experience, while enjoying the beauty Alaska has to offer.

Thanks to The People’s Paper and Josh Fryfogle, this idea can come back to life from the bones of Rock at the Park and be better than ever.

Without support from these great organizations as well as our many sponsors, such a dream could not have come true.

I am extremely excited to offer FREE music to our community and families and hope to see you at The Pass @ The Park. After all, it’s our event, not mine.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Contributed by Dori Cranmore R.N. Rhodiola rosea is not a common herb, but it’s getting more popular every year. It typically grows at high altitudes in the Arctic and mountainous regions throughout Europe and Asia, and has over 200 different species.

Rhodiola rosea is now being grown and harvested in Alaska under the Alaska Grown label and is available at All About Herbs,Inc. in Wasilla.

One of Rhodiola’a attributes is that it is an adaptogenic herb. This means that it acts in non-specific ways to increase our body’s resistance to stress,

without disturbing normal biological functions. There are many recognized herbs that are considered adaptogens: ginsengs, licorice root, maca, holy basil, schisandra, cordyceps, ashwagandha, Reishi mushrooms and my all time favorite - rhodiola.

Russia and Scandinavia have been studying rhodiola intensely for thirtyfive years. They use it as a tonic, tea or supplement for fatigue, poor attention span, decreased memory, to help make workers more productive and to increase the capacity for mental work.

The Journal of the American Botanical Council, reports that numerous studies of rhodiola in both humans and animals have indicated that it helps prevent fatigue, stress and the damaging effects of oxygen deprivation.

Evidence also suggests that it acts as an antioxidant, enhances immune

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system function and can increase sexual energy. Rhodiola appears to be able to significantly reduce the effects of prolonged and minor physical exhaustion that results in fatigue. Some research has shown rhodiola’s ability to inhibit estrogen binding to a receptor and instead increased the metabolism of estradiol, thus labeling it as antiestrogenic.

when taken in small doses and a relaxant when taken in larger doses.

The tea is made with the ground root and is steeped (brewed) for four hours.

Rhodiola is not advised for pregnant women or those with bipolar disorder.

Because of the mild stimulant effect, some may note when taking rhodiola it has been used successfully to cycle off caffeine.

In fact, the FDA has forcibly removed some products containing Rhodiola rosea from the market due to disputed claims that it treats cancer, anxiety, influenza, the common cold, bacterial infections and migraines.

Trying to quit smoking? Rhodiola has shown to greatly suppress physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.

Dosage ranges from 50mg up to 600mg a day.

It is recommended to not exceed 600mg, as higher doses may be ineffective. Rhodiola acts as a stimulant

One: Nicotine is a highly addictive drug, plain and simple.

Contributed by Noel Crowley-Bell, Co-Chair Breathe Free Mat-Su The call of action is simple: Stop smoking for one day on a global level.

It is estimated globally 6.4 million people will die directly from their use of tobacco this year. 52.2% of those deaths take place in just 4 four countries: China, India, Russia and the U.S. In the U.S. 480,000 deaths are attributed to tobacco use with 41,000 additional deaths to non-smokers who are impacted through secondhand smoke exposure. Over 8% of Alaskan deaths are attributed to tobacco. It is estimated that for every eight smokers who die from smoking, one non-smoker dies as a result of exposure to secondhand smoke. In Alaska this means that for the 600 people who will die from using tobacco this year, an additional 75 Alaskans will also lose their life due to being exposed to another’s tobacco use.

The toll of tobacco use is not just in the deaths it causes. It is found in the emotional toll as tobacco users and

Contributed by Winona Benson, Nourished Health Coaching Services Quick Quiz: How many portions are in a bag of snack-size whole grain crackers? Or a small bottle of locally-pressed juice? Or a lunch box pack of granola bars?

Hint: It’s not “one”. Often, the above products contain two or two-and-a-half servings per package.

non-smokers deal with failing health and the impact failing health has on their lives, their livelihoods, the ability to maintain productivity in the work force as well as the cost to pay for treatment as the diseases they experience progress.

In Alaska, based on available statistical data, tobacco use costs an estimated $538 million in direct medical expenditures and an additional $231 million in lost productivity due to tobacco-related deaths. While the combination of these two sums total an astounding $769 million, it underestimates the total scope of costs as these amounts are based on 2012 dollars and costs.

Additionally, consider this fact: Lost productivity from tobacco-related illness and costs due to secondhand smoke exposure-related illness or death are not tracked in Alaska and cannot be included in these amounts.

You might wonder, given the costs in lost lives, health and productivity, why do people still use tobacco?

Two: It is a statistical and real fact that 80% of adult cigarette smokers first tried smoking by age 18 and 99% first tried smoking by age 26.

Three: Tobacco companies use this information to purposely target youth and other vulnerable populations through aggressive marketing and ad placements portraying the use of tobacco as a social norm that enhances everything from sophistication to being popular, cool or rebellious.

Twenty-five million dollars a day is spent every day just in the U.S. to place tobacco products in front of their target audience.

Why? RJ Reynolds, a tobacco company, said it best some years ago, “They represent tomorrow’s cigarette business… As this 14-24 age group matures, they will account for a key share of the total cigarette volume -- for at least the next twenty-five years.”

Smoking rates, particularly for youth under the age of 18 in Alaska had dropped to 11% in 20138 with no reported use of e-cigarettes. In 2015 however, 18% of Alaska’s youth report using the devices. E-cigarettes are a

least five hours after consuming large amounts of simple carbohydrates. hard on your body. Here’s why: > Food is meant to be spread throughout the day. Overdosing on too much food at one time causes pain, upset and sluggish digestion. > A surge of glucose is released into your blood. Your pancreas has to work overtime, pumping insulin through the body to absorb all that extra glucose.

This can make you feel spacey, weak, irritable or headachy.

Can You Eat Just One? Sure, you could go ahead and enjoy just half the bag, but are you really going to do that?

> Thinking there is some type of emergency, your adrenal glands go into “fight or flight” mode and release adrenaline and cortisol, which is the body’s natural response to stress.

Don’t beat yourself up if the answer is no: If you place food in front of most people, they tend to eat it all. It’s just the way we’re wired.

> When your blood sugar levels finally plummet, you experience wicked cravings for more food - specifically simple carbs or sweets.

The Perils of Supersizing: Eating too much food in one sitting is

> Research has found that immune system function is affected for at

5 Tips to Kick Portion Distortion: > Don’t over order – go for salads, soups and appetizers, which are typically more reasonably sized than entrees. > Choose high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, beans and whole grains to keep you feeling full and energized. > Chew well to aid digestion and give your brain time to register you’re full before you overeat. > Get enough water. Often we mistake thirst for hunger. > Carry your own snacks. Stock up on snack-sized containers and fill them with baby carrots, air-popped popcorn or nuts.

Get Even Healthier!

Are you curious about how easy-tomake changes (such as chewing your food more thoroughly) can make a

Rhodiola rosea is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to cure, treat or prevent disease.

Lucky us in Alaska, to have it grown and harvested in our fine state!

Dori Cranmore is a registered nurse and owner of All About Herbs Inc. Call 376-8327 for questions or a personalized consult.

relatively new way to consume nicotine and are often touted as “safer than traditional cigarettes”. Regulations on e-cigarettes are in just the beginning phase so the ability to advertise, market and make statements from manufacturers and retailers regarding the impact they have on public health is only just emerging.

However, in 2016 the Surgeon General concluded that, “The aerosol from e-cigarettes is not harmless. It can contain harmful and potentially harmful chemicals, including nicotine - ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs, flavoring such diacetyl - a chemical linked to a serious lung disease, volatile organic compounds such as benzene - which is found in car exhaust and heavy metals such as nickel, tin and lead”.

So why observe World No Tobacco Day? Plain and simple, it brings a light to the toll tobacco takes on our friends, families, co-workers and the world.

Given that smoking is the leading cause of preventable death and disease, isn’t this reason enough to start a dialogue about what steps can be taken to actualize the goal of witnessing the first tobacco free generation, perhaps in our lifetime?

big difference in your health? Would you like help in making healthier food choices? Let’s talk! Schedule a complimentary health coaching consultation with me today, or pass this offer on to someone you care about!

About Me: I have been working in the field of health and nutrition for the past nine years. I recently graduated from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, where I learned about more than one hundred dietary theories and studied a variety of practical lifestyle coaching methods.

Drawing on this knowledge, I will help you create a completely personalized “road map to health” that suits your unique body, lifestyle, preferences and goals.

Learn more about my training and my unique approach to health coaching on my webpage: www.nourishedak.com Questions? Call or email: 907-982-9933 nourishedak@gmail.com

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Contributed by Bobbi Kousoulos Ptarmigan Pediatrics Summer Health Fair 7/14/2017 - 2PM Ptarmigan Pediatrics 3543 E Meridian Park Loop, Wasilla FREE Event Ptarmigan Pediatrics invites you and your family to our 3rd Annual Summer Health Fair!

Come join us for a fun day of over thirty community booths, free food and activities for the kids on July 14th from 2:00pm to 6:00pm. We are located at 3543 E Meridian Park Loop in Wasilla.

Various events will be happening throughout the day!

The Blood Bank of Alaska will also be there hosting a blood drive from 12pm to 6pm.

• The Children’s Place will be raffling off a bicycle with a bike helmet.

• Music and entertainment will be provided by NewCity

Contributed by Major Mike Dryden, USAR Retired PTSD is a term used by laymen to explain aberrant behavior by individuals who served in combat. Is this a fair assessment or a misuse of a term that carries deadly consciences?

What is this disorder and does PTSD have any correlation to suicide?

In the movie Patton, General Patton slapped a soldier who had “lost it” in battle and was recovering in the infirmary. He had battle fatigue or was shell-shocked according to the attending doctor.

Of course, old “Blood and Guts” Patton couldn’t fathom why a soldier wouldn’t be honored to die on the battlefield in service to their country.

Patton struck the young man and told him to get his sorry butt up and go back to his unit. This scene was a real event, and the General had to apologize to the entire corp.

The US medical profession and the Veterans Administration sat silently by while our soldiers fought the remainder of WWll, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, and still did not address this disorder with any degree of urgency. Not until 1980 when the disorder was finally included in the DSM-IV as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder would serious studies began. Results from the litany of grant-funded research studies have been shocking.

The focus in the early years of research was from the large number of combat veterans from WWll, Korea and Vietnam. The research pool consisted of over 20 million soldiers still alive in the 1980s. As data was being compiled and analyzed, one shocking fact arose, surprising the research teams. Once the surveys were expanded to include veterans not in-country, they discovered significant numbers of these veterans had high levels of symptoms of PTSD also.

This strange result was later explained because so many Vietnamera veterans who didn’t have a combat tour on their DD-214 still served in hostile areas supporting the war. A good example that comes to mind were the B-52 crews who flew bombing missions over North Vietnam weren’t based in Vietnam but Columbus AFB, MS. The same was true of the troops in Thailand, Guam, Cambodia and the many other locations that fueled the war effort.

Today’s special operators are based in CONUS, but are deployed around the globe. The War on Terror is being fought disproportionately by this small segment of the military. The mental cost to this unsustainable pace will be paid sooner or later.

Today, with an entirely different

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Entertainment, and Excel Gymnastics will perform throughout the afternoon.

Excel Gymnastics is also having a bake sale to raise money to send their team to Texas.

Ptarmigan Pediatrics will be grilling hot dogs, and treats like chips, popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones and water will also be available.

The kids will be able to jump around in an inflatable play land and obstacle course.

Some of our brave providers and staff are eagerly waiting for their time in the dunk tank!

Ptarmigan Pediatrics is also proud to announce the opening of Ptarmigan Connections, Alaska’s Center for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics located in the brand new building next to Ptarmigan Pediatrics. Stop by their table for more information.

generation of individuals, the numbers still are shocking. A study conducted in 2009 showed the rate of suicide was 38 per 100,000 males and 12 per 100,000 for females.

You have to ask yourself, why can’t we identify this vulnerable group before they commit this irreversible mortal sin? The progressive nature of this disorder, if internalized, will end in tragedy. The individual, if left on their own, sees an ever-shrinking pool of options as the disorder progresses. If the individual is drinking to an excess, misusing prescription drugs or taking illegal drugs, at least that’s a sign they need help. The stoic, silent ones are the hardest to identify.

Family and friends are the front line of the recovery team. The VA can print pretty trifold brochures for waiting areas and spend millions on eye-popping websites, but sadly the results of their outreach are abysmal.

It’s not the VA’s fault because once a veteran has been identified, treatment is forthcoming. It’s always the people closest to a soldier that needs to be on guard.

What are the signs of PTSD? Let me state for the record, PTSD is a serious disorder which requires the help of trained, certified medical professionals. Those of us with friends and family returning from combat tours must remain vigilant and monitor them closely.

Some signs to be on the lookout for in yourself are flashbacks, bad dreams, frightening thoughts and avoiding situations that are triggers.

Some behavior in your loved ones you monitor are if they are easily startled, if they appear tense or on edge, they mention that they are having sleeping difficulties or any atypical behavior that coincides with their tour of duty.

Remember, it is better to err on the side of caution than to dismiss some of these signs thinking that the veterans will “work it out” on their own. The phrase, “Hindsight is 20/20,” comes to mind and is a good rule to follow. Get your friend to a group or medical professional and do it sooner than later.

I pray none of you will find yourself in the situation after your friend has committed suicide saying, “I should have seen this coming,” because it will haunt you forever. I know this to be a fact.

To recap, PTSD doesn’t have to lead to suicide if properly treated. Not everyone in combat has PTSD. A service member doesn’t have to have a combat arms MOS to be vulnerable. A good case in point was the 7,500 female nurses that served in Vietnam. Most thought they were fine until their first trip to the wall of the Vietnam Memorial. For this author and Vietnam-era veteran, I can’t even think of the names on the

wall without becoming emotional.

The following phone number is important for those of you with vulnerable veterans who are friends and family.

The phone banks are manned 24/7 because PTSD and suicidal thoughts never come at a “convenient time”.

Your small gesture could be the difference between recovery and suicide.

Need help?

Veterans can call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, send a text message to 838255, or chat online to receive free, confidential support twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care.

Do it and do it now.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Contributed by Tina Balesteri It is about time that professional cuddling has finally grabbed hold in the 49th state. With 47 other states already enjoying the warmth from professional cuddling while Alaska was left out, alone and in the cold. 2B Cuddled brought vital professional cuddling, which is also known as platonic companionship and alternative touch therapy, to Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley in April of 2017.

Professional cuddling helps individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and loneliness through the healing power of platonic companionship and alternative touch therapy. Most people don’t get the amount of human touch wanted or needed on a regular basis and professional cuddling can be the solution.

People seem to look a little confused and wonder if professional cuddling is just another cover for the illegal sex trade. “I can’t speak for other companies, but respectable cuddling companies require sessions to be entirely clothed and no “funny business” is allowed which also means there is no kissing. Many people equate cuddling

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to sex or intercourse, but that is not the service respectable professional cuddling companies offer. What we offer is so much more important and essential to our well-being as humans,” explains Tina Baleseteri, Owner of 2B Cuddled.

Ms. Balesteri explains that some of her clients are people that may have gone through a divorce or a loss of their romantic partner and aren’t ready to enter a new relationship or the responsibilities that come with one, or even wanting to dip their toe into the scary dating world but are still starved for affection. “Just because our mind isn’t ready to be in a relationship, our body doesn’t care and doesn’t stop our biological need for touch and affection.”

Others may not have room in their busy professional life for someone else, which makes creating and maintaining a healthy relationship almost impossible. Ms. Balesteri’s responds to that growing issue with, “What are they to do because they still are hungry for attention? Professionals that work 60, 70, 80+ hour weeks and slopers that are gone for weeks at a time are just a few that benefit from professionally cuddling services that are a safe and viable solution to their problem.”

Clients that may be in the direst need for a platonic touch service like

professional cuddling are individuals that were sexually assaulted or are veterans with PTSD, both may recoil at the feeling of touch because it causes flashbacks or triggers a “Fight or Flight” response. “To allow an alternative to conventional therapy that allows for a “reprograming” of touch so that the mind and body can be reminded that the client is safe and that touch, itself, can be safe again, is such an amazing thing,” says Ms. Balesteri when explaining what the alternative touch therapy part of professional cuddling means and what it can help with.

Respectable professional cuddling companies are often not ran by licensed psychologists or psychiatrists and do not claim to be able to treat or heal people, but rather that they can help based on research that has been conducted over more than fifty years around the world. These establishments are operated by people that have an overabundance of love to give and an understanding of the importance of touch.

Research has been showing that, “People who regularly receive affection are advantaged in almost every way compared to people who receive little affection; they are happier, more selfconfident, less stressed, less likely to be depressed, more likely to engage in social activity and are in better

POLITICS / OPINION Contributed by Lawrence Lease Before his move into the White House, Donald Trump already assembled his 2020 campaign committee. This just presents a growing brand of unorthodoxy that the president has embraced as evidenced by his tweets, his bombastic claims and his sharp rhetoric. Experts say that no president has done so much to undermine himself.

Trump’s response to London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, opened up a can of worms that enabled his detractors to mount their criticism on the president. Over the weekend, Trump attacked Khan for telling Londoners not to be alarmed of the recent terror attacks in his city.

But Trump is not going to change.

For anyone.

The constant reminder of the popular vote margin in the 2016 election proves there is a side to Trump that is inherently provocative given the enigmatic condition towards his public persona. The condemnations towards his fitness to serve could bring imperil to his presidency and hopes for reelection.

The president is now focused on his “travel ban” from six Muslim-majority countries that have famously been rejected by federal judges on two separate occasions. The controversy that has played out by the judges and the mainstream media is whether this ban imposes itself on religious liberties and discriminates against Muslims.

That’s what Breathe Free Alaska, the Alaska Quit Line and other health organizations across the country are saying. Why? Because of two new studies recently published.

One addresses the claim that modern vapor products are less satisfying and as or more dangerous than combustible tobacco. The other dismisses vaping as a supposed “gateway” to smoking cigarettes. Both studies contradict the FDA and health organizations’ previous and ongoing claims stating these supposed facts, leaving egg on their faces. To add insult to injury, both studies were funded by the National Institute for Health, the study funding mechanism for the FDA. I suppose if I shot myself in the foot, I’d want to keep it quiet too, especially if I did it with your tax dollars.

The first study performed by the University of Buffalo, published March 7, 2017, states in part, “Those who try to exaggerate fears of vaping products should consider their role

general mental health.” (Guerrero, Andersen & Afifi, Close Encounters: Communication in Relationships, 2014) The Close Encounters also states that, “When people gave or received affection, adrenal hormones associated with stress tended to decrease, while oxytocin tended to increase and other health benefits of affection include lower resting blood pressure, lower blood sugar, lower heart rate, a less exaggerated hormonal response to stress and healthier changes in cortisol levels.”

Articles about professional cuddling have been found in publications like The Wall Street Journal, New York Post and Maxim. Segments have been produced on CNN, TLC, FusionTV and BuzzFeed. One cuddler in Oregon has done over 400 interviews about professional cuddling and the importance of touch. Cuddle Cafés have opened in Japan where people go on their lunch to simply take a nap with someone and then go back to work.

Professional cuddling has seemed to take hold all over the United States and world.

We Alaskans, may be a little late in the game to have professional cuddling available to us but we can now finally benefit from it and no longer be out in the cold - alone, affection-starved and attention-hungry.

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Given the climate of Trump’s rhetoric, the same fuel of his comments are only more likely to empower his base once more and discredit the opinions of his critics on such a heated issue as the mass influx of Muslim asylum seekers into Europe.

Contributed by Paul Johnson

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in keeping smokers smoking. Telling people only that no product is ‘safe’ is an irresponsible message. Instead, public health experts need to continue stressing the well-documented dangers of cigarettes and what is likely to be true about differential risks. Those smokers who have tried only cigalike products should know that they may be able to find a more satisfying substitute for smoking in other vaping products.

The focus should be giving up smoking completely first. After that, we would also encourage giving up vaping, provided it doesn’t cause a return to smoking.”

(Source: www.buffalo.edu/ubnow/ campus.host.html/content/shared/ university/news/ub-reporter-articles/ stories/2017/03/kozlowski-e-cigperceptions.detail.html) The second study was also performed by the University of Buffalo in conjunction with the University of Michigan and was published March 14, 2017. Lynn Kozlowski and co-author Kenneth Warner, both former deans of their respective public health schools write, “Our analysis focused on the risks for moving from e-cigarettes to cigarettes. There is little evidence

Critics are now saying that Trump’s labeling of the executive order as a “ban” might potentially harm his legal case.

Trump has also just lawyered up to take on the Russia Probe in which former FBI Director, James Comey, will speak to testify in front of the Senate Committee.

Reports were also released by the Washington Post where Trump reportedly told Russian officials in the Oval Office that he considered the director to be “crazy” and a “nut job”.

Yet despite the chaos surrounding the legal battles in the White House, Trump still has a clear-cut agenda in place.

He is focused on enacting the “travel ban”, the repeal and replace of Obamacare, tax cuts, building a wall on the border with Mexico and infrastructure projects.

The fulfillment of Trump’s campaign promises will reach a longer duration

that those who have never smoked cigarettes or never used other tobacco products and first try e-cigarettes will later move on to cigarette usage with great frequency or daily, regular smoking.”

Their paper highlights several shortcomings in studies that appear to show a link between e-cigarette use and subsequent smoking. For example, many studies use misleading measures for what is actually considered smoking.

“Measures of ‘at least one puff in the past six months’ can mean little more than the experimenting vaper was curious how cigarettes compared,” Kozlowski says. Warner adds that in one study, only four e-cigarette users who previously hadn’t smoked reported smoking cigarettes when measured again at a later time. “All of them said they’d smoked only one or two cigarettes in the past twelve months.

None of the studies was designed to be able to follow up smoking intensity at a later date.”

Kozlowski goes on to say, “The public deserves accurate information on the health risks of e-cigarettes versus cigarettes. From the best evidence to date, e-cigarettes are much less

than himself or his aides could have projected.

Trump’s loose talk and unfiltered rhetoric present a long challenge in winning over supporters and the hearts of minds of European leaders abroad.

House Republicans, Justin Amash and Carlos Cubero, have both condemned Trump on separate occasions.

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, defended the London mayor’s comments on Monday saying, “Sadiq Khan is doing a good job. It’s wrong to say anything else.”

Trump has proven that he is willing to sacrifice policies and priorities in order to assert power in a particular moment.

When presented with a life’s epiphany of choosing between being the president or Donald J. Trump, he will always choose the latter and that’s what his supporters love about him.

dangerous than cigarettes. The public has become confused about this.”

Warner adds, “The persistent focus on the potential risks to kids has caused adults’ understanding of the risks of e-cigarettes to worsen over time. This is likely discouraging adult smokers from using e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool.”

(Source: www.buffalo.edu/ubnow/ campus.host.html/content/shared/ university/news/ub-reporter-articles/ stories/2017/03/kozlowski-e-cigperceptions.detail.html) I understand why BFA/AQL wouldn’t want the whole truth to come out.

That’s not the way to support a purely ideological campaign of any kind. What I don’t understand is how Ms. Hample, Ms. Crowley Bell and all of the others they’ve rallied together can sleep at night.

Millions of lives are at stake in the U.S. alone. If you or a loved one is one of them, get off of the stinks by trying vaping. It’s at least 95% safer than combustibles. It’s not a “gateway”. Your overall health will improve and as an added bonus, it’s considerably less expensive too.

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POLITICS / OPINION Contributed by Cathy K Mosher, President of Valley Republican Women 3rd Annual Spring Fling Chili Cook-Off 6/22/2017 – 6:30PM Valley Republican Women Palmer Train Depot 610 S Valley Way, Palmer FREE Admission, $20 Raffle Ticket The Valley Republican Women’s mission is to provide a positive forum for Republican women and men to share their views and promote conservative values within government, and to proactively develop and mentor future Republican leaders through education and awareness.

Founded in 2010, we are a group of inexperienced and experienced Republicans working together to achieve Republican goals, elect Republican candidates and promote conservative Republican values.

Republican women are recognized as the heart of the Party. We are key to successful fundraising, and recruiting local, state and national Republican candidates; especially women!

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Active political leaders provide us with insight into how government functions and how we can help them to achieve Republican platform goals.

Valley Republican Women and our members on Thursday, June 22nd starting at 6:30p.m. at the Train Depot in Palmer!

During each “campaign season”, we pro-actively contribute to, work with and for Republican candidates. We invite candidates to speak with us and to answer our questions so that our members stay fully-informed voters.

Chili Cook-Off Join Valley Republican Women and ARP District 12 Republicans for our 3rd Annual Spring Fling Chili Cook-Off on June 22, 2017 at the Palmer Depot from 6:30p.m. to 9:00p.m.

The Valley Republican Women’s objectives are to provide a positive forum for Republican Women to share their views and promote conservative values within government.

Our guest speaker is Senator Mike Dunleavy and AKRA President, Justin Giles, will be Master of Ceremonies.

We pro-actively develop and mentor future Republican leaders through education, awareness and mentoring.

We work for the election of Republican candidates. Our objective is to foster loyalty to the Republican Party through unity and by promoting its principles.

We meet the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Matsu Family Restaurant located at 401 E. Parks Highway, Wasilla at 6:30p.m. (for dinner) and the business meetings run from 7:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Please join us for our annual Spring Fling fundraiser to learn more about

•

WWII Nostalgia Guns Raffle – Chiappa M1-22 and Chiappa 1911-22. Tickets are $20 and only 200 are being sold. One winner takes home both guns.

•

Vote for your favorite chili! The winning chef will take the trophy home (or to the office) to display until the next annual Chili Cook-Off!

•

Our 2nd Annual Dessert Out-cry and Silent Auction.

For more information, you can call Cathy Mosher at 982-2646 or email cmosher@mtaonline.net

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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 A Black Sheep Shop ......... 376-8198 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 Invest in Yourself Fitness .... 830-6072 HOME DÉCOR Cover Ups Designs ........ 746-4739

Contributed by David Luntz 6th Annual Event Prepper, Survivalist And Militia Rendezvous June 23-25, 2017 – 1PM South Central Patriots Yoder Rd. Across Montana Creek Bridge, Talkeetna FREE Event Event will entail a number of featured speakers, training classes, hands-on instructional classes and shooting.

This event is open to the public at no cost.

There is plenty of camper and tent spaces available. porta potties are onsite.

You must bring your own personal hygiene products, food, water, drinks and personal gear. Gas station, food store, showers, laundry and hotels are in the near vicinity if you need them.

Directions: From the Parks Highway, turn onto the Talkeetna Spur Road.

Proceed down the Talkeetna Spur Road and turn right onto Yoder Road. On Yoder Road, cross the Montana Creek

Bridge and continue until you see signs. Entrance to property and event will be on the right and marked with flags. Children must be accompanied by an adult and remain supervised.

Pets are welcome, but must be leashed or on a run.

This is a family-friendly event. Loud, obnoxious drinking and gun play will not be tolerated.

If you have questions about the event please email david.luntz@hotmail.com or southcentralpatriots@gmail.com

JEWELRY L Forge Jewelry ........ 232-9866 PIZZA Humdingers Pizza ........ 745-7499 PRINT SERVICES The UPS Store ........ 376-6245 RADIO 95.5 The Pass ........ 631-0877 REPAIR, RESTORATION Comtronics ........ 373-2669 Steve’s Toyostove…. 376-9276 SALONS Hello Darlin Salon.… 373-3307 SMOKE SHOPS Alaska Pipe Dreams ........ 746-1500 Light It Up Head Shop…. 745-5483

Contributed by David Eastman Recenty, Senator Bernie Sanders and Senator Van Hollen attacked Trump’s nominee for the White House Office of Budget and Management, Russ Vought. I met Russ when he, Sen. Mia Costello (R-Anchorage) and I went through the Claremont Institute’s Lincoln Fellowship together, back in 2011. His wife is from the Mat-Su. She worked for Vice President Mike Pence when he served in Congress, and had the audacity as a woman to defend him - and in the Washington Post no less.

In short, Russ is exactly the kind of person you would expect to see appointed by a Republican president to a White House staff position, and therefore the kind of person that progressive politicians love to hate.

So what do they do when faced with a man with impeccable conservative credentials? They attack him for being a Christian.

Now wait, you say, “We live in America.

We have the U.S. Constitution, which forbids public officials from attacking a presidential appointee for their religious beliefs.” Yes, of course we do. And for 229 years, at least this portion of that Constitution, was largely respected.

But we live in different times today. In 2017, no portion of that Constitution is

sacrosanct from attack by progressive politicians, not even the portion that guarantees Americans the right to hold whatever religious belief they choose. As Albert Einstein predicted long ago: “The strength of the Constitution lies entirely in the determination of each citizen to defend it. Only if every single citizen feels duty bound to do his share in this defense are the constitutional rights secure.”

And if progressive Democrats and their friends could prevent Trump from nominating 41% of Americans to office simply because of their Christian beliefs, that would certainly be a political victory that would move forward their progressive agenda. In Sanders’ America, there is no need for religious freedom. Progressives in government will let you know what you are permitted to believe, by attacking those who hold any religious beliefs that don’t support their agenda.

If criticizing Christian or Jewish beliefs supports the progressive agenda, loyal progressives will be there to defend the right to criticize. If criticizing Islamic dogmas hurts the progressive agenda, loyal progressives will condemn the “haters” for their “hate speech”. Just remember, hate speech is whatever opposes their agenda.

And whatever supports their agenda is wildflowers and rainbows - I mean, “worthy of tolerance”.

Let’s not kid ourselves about what

the world just saw in the Vought confirmation hearing. A man was told that he has a disease, that he is “Islamophobic” and unworthy of holding public office; that Senator Sanders would vote to reject his appointment to the White House, because he actually believes what Jesus said, and supported the right of the Christian college that he graduated from to continue to teach that Christianity is true. It’s the “Christianity is true” part that has the progressives in a tizzy. It’s not PC to believe in truth.

It’s not PC to believe what’s in the Bible. And even if it was, it’s certainly not PC to admit to it in public. Silence is what is demanded. And if you aren’t silent, you will be attacked, just like Russ Vought.

Which leads me to conclude that Albert Einstein is right, and that we each have an important part to play in doing our share to defend the constitutional rights of Americans.

Letting politicians and judges do it for us was never an option. Letting progressives do it for us is simply suicidal.

Rep. David Eastman is a conservative legislator in Alaska, representing the rural Mat-Su Valley (House District 10). He ran on a platform of fighting for genuine conservative reform, fiscally and socially, and remains committed to delivering on that promise.

SPECIALTY GIFTS Alaska Midnite Scents ........ 357-7364 THRIFT SHOPS Red Barn Thrift Store ........ 745-5050 Steam Driven Boutique ........ 376-4404 Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Stores ........ 376-5708 Willow Rose Thrift Store ......... 495-ROSE TOYS Just Imagine Toys ........ 357-1543 Learning Essentials .......... 357-3990

POLITICS / OPINION Contributed by Wes Keller I take pride in declaring myself as an Alaska Sourdough (old-timer). I was not born here, but I got here as quick as I could. The entirety of Alaska State Government history has happened in my lifetime, from statehood to the humiliating situation we are in now!

So far, I find it impossible to be comfortable with the apparently imminent transition from the pioneer spirit to embracing a “nanny government” that is somehow supposed to provide for all human needs (financial security, healthcare, housing, education…).

These are good things, so our founders allocated 80% of our natural resource wealth to allow state government to enhance them. I was fiercely proud that our founders provided a mechanism to transfer commonly-owned property (the other 20%) into personal private property (PFDs) so Alaskans could retain fundamental, constitutional and unfettered right to protect and use their property.

Now, as an unelected Representative, it is a crushing blow to realize the Senate and House seem willing to vote

to use money from the Permanent Fund Earnings Reserve for expanding budgetary programs - apparently endorsed by Alaskans who put them into office. Alaskans have been incredibly silent and passive as we have progressed steadily toward this year’s shocking (to me) budget vote that includes this radical departure from historical values.

Since our governor began to call the Permanent Fund (including its earnings) a “sovereign wealth fund”, there has been a deafening silence on the misuse of the terms! In years past, there were a few of us legislators who tried to shout in alarm; however, we were minimized by political insiders who were (and continue to be) direct beneficiaries of state spending. The surprising thing to me is how the Legislature seems to be following down the same road.

Alaskans seem to naïvely prefer state government spending over their own protected right to spend or save! There seems to be a growing consensus that “maximum benefit” (constitutional terminology) is presumed to come from “wise” government spending rather than individual personal property spending.

If the majority of Alaskans are comfortable with an administrative state government bent on spending

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more and more public property in lieu of transparently taken tax revenue, then it is very appropriate that I was unelected.

In Alaska, “sovereign wealth” is not equal to “Alaska State Government wealth”! It would only be equal if Alaska State Government were the “sovereign” instead of the Alaskan people. Alaska state government with its three branches, is the product of the sovereign, not the sovereign itself as revealed in the Constitution.

This is a very important distinction when discussing the Permanent Fund (including its earnings, the PF) because it is specifically withheld from state government spending access - unless there is clear subsequent approval from the people.

Some believe (myself included) it would require the use of the constitutional amendment process and require a statewide vote to consider it “state government wealth”. Others (legislators who vote for the proposed budget) evidently believe mere legislative action is sufficient to take the earnings.

The later makes the historical purpose for constitutional Permanent Fund restriction utterly meaningless!

Alaskan ambivalence may partly be because we do not comprehend the huge numbers we are talking about!

Alaska State Government “insiders” (especially those in the executive branch) are accustomed to working with millions and billions because those numbers are needed to manage our

extravagant budget, which has been balanced using the 80% of unrestricted natural resource wealth.

Another factor of this ambivalence is the (intentional?) lack of promotion of PFD potential! The current administration does not even simply report the amount in the earnings reserve available for PFD distribution! I doubt anybody would argue that there is less than ten billion dollars currently available without touching the corpus of the PF! This is a very big number resulting from Alaska statutes defining how the PF is fed and increased. If just the PF earnings reserve were made entirely available to Alaska State Government (as opposed to PFDs), it would easily be enough to continue current spending for 3-5 years without touching the regular income stream!

If, on the other hand, the earnings were distributed as dividends, everybody could easily receive a 2017 PFD of at least $15,000 and still leave the Permanent Fund intact for continuing investment and future PFDs! Ten billion dollars is a staggering amount of wealth!

In spite of the fact that all past legislatures have honored the government spending restriction, this one seems bent on breaking the mold.

This is an issue you must take up with your legislator.

WesKeller.com

FAITH / OPINION Contributed by Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain Declaration of Independence: “Taxation without representation!” was the battle cry in America’s thirteen colonies, which were forced to pay taxes to England’s King George III despite having no representation in the British Parliament. As dissatisfaction grew, British troops were sent in to quell the early movement toward rebellion.

Repeated attempts by the colonists to resolve the crisis without military conflict proved fruitless.

On June 11, 1776, the colonies’ Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia and formed a committee whose express purpose was drafting a document that would formally sever their ties with Great Britain.

The committee included Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. Jefferson, who was considered the strongest and most eloquent writer, crafted the original draft document. A total of 86 changes were made to his draft and the Continental Congress officially adopted

Contributed by Vic Kohring Have you ever wondered how you survived a near impossible, even lifethreatening situation?

I’ve had my share of close calls through the years which could have easily ended my life, yet I’m still here. As a Christian, I’ve been in Satan’s crosshairs many times. But thanks to God’s intervention, I’ve lived to tell my story.

If the Lord takes us early and brings us home, it’s part of His plan. But for those who survive the long term, many a bullet is dodged, at least for some of us.

The Bible says in Psalm 121 that, “The Lord will keep you from harm. He will watch over your life and your coming and going both now and forever more.” While campaigning for the Legislature one year, gunshots were fired in separate drive by shooting attempts as I waved at cars along the Glenn Highway. A direct hit could have been fatal. I wore a bullet proof vest to protect me, but it was God who actually kept me safe. The alternative was to stay home and allow my political enemies to intimidate me and declare victory.

While trapping one December day many years ago along the Chitina

the final version on July 4, 1776.

Star Spangled Banner: On a rainy September 13, 1814, British warships sent a downpour of shells and rockets onto Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor, relentlessly pounding the American fort for 25 hours. The bombardment, known as the Battle of Baltimore, came only weeks after the British had attacked Washington, D.C., burning the capitol, the treasury and the president’s house. It was another chapter in the ongoing War of 1812.

“It seemed as though Mother Earth had opened, and was vomiting shot and shell in a sheet of fire and brimstone,” Key wrote later. But when darkness arrived, Key saw only red erupting in the night sky. Given the scale of the attack, he was certain the British would win.

The hours passed slowly, but in the clearing smoke of “the dawn’s early light” on September 14th, he saw the American flag - not the British Union Jack - flying over the fort, announcing an American victory.

A week earlier, Francis Scott Key, a 35 year old American lawyer, had boarded the flagship of the British fleet on the Chesapeake Bay in hopes of persuading the British to release a friend who had recently been arrested. Key’s tactics were successful, but because he and his companions had gained knowledge of the impending attack on Baltimore, the British did not let them go.

Key put his thoughts on paper while still onboard the ship, setting his words to the tune of a popular English song.

His brother-in-law, commander of a militia at Fort McHenry, read Key’s work and had it distributed under the name “Defense of Fort McHenry”.

The Baltimore Patriot newspaper soon printed it and within weeks, Key’s poem now called «The Star-Spangled Banner» appeared in print across the country, immortalizing his words and forever naming the flag it celebrated.

They allowed the Americans to return to their own vessel, but continued guarding them. Under their scrutiny, Key watched on September 13th as the barrage of Fort McHenry began eight miles away.

Freedom Is Not Free: God has blessed this nation. Our forefathers came to this country to obtain religious liberty. They fought for independence from the economic tyranny of Britain. Many died, but God

River Flats near McCarthy, I broke through lake ice but managed to pull myself up and prevent hypothermia from overtaking me. Not to mention that I escaped drowning. When target practicing near Point McKenzie two decades ago, a bullet I fired at an old car from a .22 pistol, ricocheted off the chassis and came straight back at me, striking my leg. A slight deviation to its trajectory could have meant disaster including tearing through an artery.

Again, God was present.

In high school, I was driving the family car to basketball practice when I was forced to take evasive action to avoid crunching into the back of an empty school bus, whose careless and indecisive driver stopped abruptly at an intersection. Given the height of the bumper on the bus in relation to my windshield (they were equal), a collision probably would have decapitated me as I slammed my brakes and burnt half the rubber off my screeching tires.

The bus driver approached me in the school parking lot a few minutes later to profusely apologize.

Years later as a graduate student in the habit of burning the midnight oil studying, I attempted to drive home after a final exam I had crammed for the entire night before. As a precaution, I took the Old Glenn just in case I dozed

off, even though I was pumped up with coffee and caffeine pills. The idea was, since far less traffic existed on the Old Glenn Highway versus the New Glenn Highway, should I fall asleep at the wheel, I may stand a greater chance at surviving a crash. Sure enough, I nodded off along the Knik River close to the old bridge. But instead of crashing, my old jalopy simply rolled to a stop at a gravel pull-off. When I awoke, I found myself a few feet from the raging river with my heart pounding wildly. Ten feet over and drowning would have been inevitable.

The most extreme example of a near fatality occurred while I was an undergraduate college student in the Seattle area. After taking in an NBA basketball game between the Seattle SuperSonics and the New York Knicks the evening of November 4, 1977, I was caught in the middle of a six-car pileup on Interstate 90. While a passenger, our car narrowly missed striking a stalled vehicle on the freeway, yet sustained damage to the undercarriage after it was deliberately hooked along a concrete curb to slow it. We miraculously stopped eight feet behind the broken down car. After looking under our rig to inspect the damage, I hopped back inside when we were suddenly hit from behind by a ‘67 Ford Mustang traveling about 55mph.

allowed us to prevail. Freedom was bought through the blood and women who believed in freedom.

Jesus Freed Us: The Bible tells us, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) We have a sin debt that we cannot pay. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:23) It was Jesus’ blood, shed on the cross for us, that paid our sin debt. “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.” (Ephesians 1:7) Christ made us free from our debt of sin.

“For the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 8:2) So we must, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1) Who is Jesus? Jesus answered that question in John 14:6. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36) Jesus gave you freedom, but you must be willing to take it.

Contact me to find out how.

(907) 715-4001

The impact severely injured the driver of the Mustang while causing me to careen into the windshield and dashboard, injuring my neck and forehead. Years later, I required major spinal surgery after years of suffering.

The most frightening part of my experience was nearly being pinned between two cars as I checked for damage. Ten seconds elapsed from the time I was looking under our car to when I got back inside, at which time we were pulverized from behind as if a bomb exploded. Had I been between the cars, I would have been crushed and likely died on the spot.

Any one of these incidents could have claimed me, but thankfully I survived.

Did God send a guardian angel to protect me as part of His plan? I’m convinced yes as the Bible suggests such angels exist. Jesus references them in Matthew and they are mentioned in Daniel and 2 Kings. I believe I was spared to eventually serve in the Legislature - my destiny - and in a position to help literally thousands of people on a wide range of issues, improving the lives of many in my community. So there was a reason, a purpose.

“The Lord is faithful and He will strengthen you and protect you…” (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

FAITH / OPINION Contributed by Brett Ahern With Pentecost gone, it’s easy to think God’s calendar is empty until the next holiday season. However, the summer harvests are coming up, and scripture points to the production of the fruit of the Spirit as the focus of our lives (Galatians 5:22-25).

Israel met with God in Jerusalem three times a year (Passover, Pentecost and Sukkot), observing and developing in light of these main salvation events.

Passover celebrates our freedom from sin’s slavery. Pentecost, the grain harvest, allows us to consume the bread of life so we can live in covenant with God, by the strength of His Spirit.

In the fall is Sukkot, when all harvests are complete, foreshadowing the coming kingdom of God at Christ’s return.

In my previous article, “God’s Passover Heart”, we explored the three events that God did at Passover time for Israel, laying the foundation for the New Testament Passover event, Christ’s crucifixion.

Pentecost is a two-sided coin. When Israel left Egypt, God brought them to Mt. Sinai to make His covenant at

this time. This is the framework for the NT experience of God pouring out His spirit at Pentecost - the promised new covenant - overcoming the deficiencies of the flesh to keep the covenant through the power of His Spirit, which writes the covenant in our hearts, so we live it from the inside out (Jeremiah 31:31-34).

The other side of the Pentecost coin is agricultural. Passover ended, Israel offered the first fruit of the grain harvest, launching the harvest season, counting out fifty days to the “fullness of Pentecost” offering. The two main grains harvested were barley, the poor man’s bread, and wheat, the wealthy man’s bread. The barley was ripe before the wheat, so the workflow was from poverty to wealth. The first fruit offering was a handful of stalks. The fullness offering was two loaves of bread.

Our post-Passover journey is from slavery’s poverty to liberty’s wealth (Romans 6:3-4). Transitioning from “barely getting by” to “life more abundant” (John 10:10).

From a handful of raw provision to overflowing, processed through Jesus’ command, “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised.”

(Acts 1:4-8) Then He discussed the baptism of the Holy Spirit and its distinction from water baptism. This

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promised gift enables disciples to live a life that witnesses to God’s full nature, as Jesus did.

The grain harvests are not about the fruit of the Spirit. Jesus pointed out that He is the bread of life, come to us from heaven. To emphasize the importance of this in our lives, He compared Himself to manna, the bread miraculously provided during Israel’s wilderness journey (John 6:31-58). We harvest in the gospels, gathering the grains of truth of how His life works; so we can live like Him. His living in humanity’s poverty, enslaved to the inability of our flesh, brought humility’s fullness, enabling Him to rely on God’s spirit, bringing forth the Father’s wealth. Counting the fifty days, from poverty to wealth, is the increasing process of making every day of our lives with God count.

Pentecost’s gift of the Spirit is the basis for the next phase of God’s plan for our lives - producing the fruit of the Spirit.

Throughout Israel’s various temperate zones a wide variety of fruit harvests occurred in the summer months, mirroring our personal diverse life experiences.

Over half the Spirit’s gifts involve a type of informational revelation (1 Corinthians 12:4-10), bringing out the multi-faceted truth we personally

need to produce the Spirit’s fruit.

This is how we live in God’s kingdom now, witnessing to its effectiveness to those in need. We use the gifts with one another to assist each other in producing the Spirit’s fruit.

This reliance on the Spirit to empower our lives in divine good works frees us to reach out and pluck the fruit of the Spirit as needed, strengthening our spirit with the specific nourishment needed to walk in the work God has for us. As an example, are you dealing with hate? Reach out, pluck, feast on, internalize and delight in love (Galatians 5:16-25).

This is God’s will for our lives until Jesus returns, the Sukkot Holy Day event. This culmination Holy Day, where a tenth of all harvested was brought to Jerusalem for a grand feast, was with extreme joy.

Israel delighted greatly in the Lord, for His abundant provision to carry them through to the next harvest cycle.

Likewise, we will have all we harvest of Christ’s life and the Spirit’s fruits to celebrate with and apply in the kingdom, assisting Christ in bringing all nations into God’s life (Isaiah 2:1-4, Revelation 20:6).

To reach the author with comments and for further discussion, email him at brettact2@earthlink.net.

POLITICS / OPINION Contributed by Tim Johnson A statement that precedes the internet and represents the wisdom of experience in Washington reads: Never write what you can phone. Never phone what you can speak. Never speak when you can nod. Never nod when you can wink, and wink only when you really need to.

On July 27th of 2016, presidential candidate, Donald Trump, said, “Russia, if you’re listening, I hope you’re able to find the 30,000 emails that are missing.

I think you will probably be rewarded mightily by our press.”

He was referring to the emails of rival candidate, Hillary Clinton. In 2017, the American people have been informed by our intelligence agencies that indeed, Russia had executed statelevel cyber-attacks to influence the presidential election of our Republic.

Such attacks seemed to be directed at email servers of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), as well as other facilities related to the Democratic Party.

Although Mr. Trump initially denied such allegations, he has grudgingly acknowledged the revelations.

Attorney Reince Priebus, formerly chairman of the Republican National

Contributed by William Deaton, a Student for Life in Cordova, Alaska Recently, the Alaska House has introduced a very important pro-life bill. The Life at Conception Act would make killing pre-born children illegal.

Committee (RNC), appears to have accepted the conclusions of U.S. Intelligence Services. He has also criticized the security of the DNC email servers.

A forerunner to current events occurred in 2006, Mark Foley was a Republican congressman from Florida. He was investigated by the FBI for sexual harassment of congressional pages. The FBI used Mr. Foley’s email messages as part of the chain of evidence. Although the FBI declined to prosecute, the emails ended Congressman Foley’s political career.

A multiplicity of widely publicized hacks have come to attention lately.

Most of these hacks have targeted user information such as passwords and social security numbers. The same means – targeting insecure websites and insecure web servers – can be used to hack email accounts.

A common topic among cyber security analysts are the frequent weaknesses caused by errors in the configuration of web servers. These are the computers that “serve” or display the web pages that we request when we click on a link or go to a website. System administrators are responsible for the security of web servers. To err is human and error is frequent among such humans.

In other words, the Life at Conception Act stops abortions. This is music to many people’s ears. So far, Rep. David Eastman is the only sponsor of the bill.

Abortion kills the innocent pre-born child that is alive and has a beating heart. It is very interesting that a single celled bacteria on another planet is considered life, yet the unborn human

A common topic among programmers is the ease with which websites can be built. In fact, it is simple to build a website without knowing much about security measures. Software schemes called Content Management Systems (CMS) are usually employed, and often by programmers who have incomplete knowledge of the internal workings of a CMS. Many programmers do not properly utilize the resources with which a website can be secured.

Programming errors can be the equivalent of “leaving the front door open” while server security errors are the equivalent of “leaving the back door open”.

In recent years, advertising on the internet has become more and more prevalent. Much of the advertising is presented by something called Content Distribution Networks (CDN).

Because these networks are embedded in multiple websites, the hacking of one CDN can effectively hack multiple websites. This is similar to a single defective airbag in multiple car models causing recalls of all those models.

Hacking for criminal gain is well-known and frequently discussed. The Russian intrusions into our political system is news today, but not necessarily new. Hacking to attack our country’s infrastructure is a constant concern of security agencies. A failure of large parts of our electrical grid – which could be accomplished via an internet

embryo is not. However, in federal law a person who murders a pregnant woman is charged with two homicides.

Interesting, seeing that if the mother wants to kill her baby she can, in the process of abortion. Whether we like it or not, abortion is murder.

Can we come together and end abortion as a state? Will you stand

intrusion – might lead to more deaths and economic loss than the 911 attack.

We can anticipate further politicallybased tampering via the internet.

Independent equivalents of the Russian hacking are entirely feasible and probably is being planned. Such hacks may come from non-state players like the group known as Anonymous.

An extensive leak of emails between members of Congress, staff and lobbyists would probably result in chaos. In the short run, such chaos could be a detriment, but in the long run might contribute to “draining the swamp”.

Such leaked revelations could highlight the contrasts between partisan interests, lobbyists’ special interests and the people’s interests. If it is seen that the people’s interest were given second or third place to those other interests, the pitchforks of public indignation might be put to work with extreme prejudice.

Reince Priebus may be correct in his assessment of the Democratic Party’s security measures. Politically neutral comments from security experts seem to support his assertion.

However, all security is potentially flawed and a small chink in a firewall could swell to a flood that would erase all of Mr. Priebus’s smugness.

against the genocide of our generation?

What shall your children say about you?

Join the movement! End abortion today by calling your Alaska State Representative and demanding that they end abortion by becoming a cosponsor of the Alaska Life at Conception Act.

COMMUNITY Contributed by Betsy Woodin, Alaska Center for Resource Families Thanks to the following for helping make the ACRF/OCS Annual Resource Family Appreciation Picnic a success: Wasilla Bible Church, MEA and Diversified Tires donated funds for food

and activities. Girl Scouts Troop 614, Chelsea at United Way, and Full Circle Counseling donated food.

Mr. Lube, Arbys, Taco Bell, Shane Lamb studio, Just Imagine Toys, Palmer Moose, Turn-a-Leaf Thrift Store, Coming Attractions, Kevin Lester, H2Oasis, MatSu SprocKids, Mat-Su Miners and Kaladi Brothers Coffee donated gift cards for

prizes and volunteer appreciation gifts.

Mat-Su Regional Medical Center and MEA donated frisbees, Geraldine at Knik Tribe contributed flatware and paper goods. Pete Christopher and Mat-Su Miners let us use their facility.

Staff from the following organizations set up resource tables and did activities with the kids: Denali Family Services, Family Centered

Services of Alaska, LINKS Mat-Su Parent Resource Center, Alaska Family Services, Mat-Su College and Carol from Alaska Assistance Dogs brought Stan.

The Wasilla OCS office staff donated beautiful gift baskets that went home with some very happy families.

Thanks to ACRF/OCS staff, family, friends and volunteers for your continued support.

PETS & ANIMALS

PETS & ANIMALS

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Contributed by Kelleigh Orthman

Contributed by Tracy Smith, Animal Care Dispatcher Bitsy (A044471) is a 4 year old, spayed, female, long-haired, black and white kitty. A beautiful cat with interesting coloration, very fluffy.

Sweet and gentle in temperament, loves to be handled and brushed.

Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter 907-746-5500

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthman Big Kitty is a big cuddle bear of a guy.

He has long, white hair. He has blue eyes and he’s deaf.

Big Kitty spent over a year in a shelter and as the months went by, he became cranky in the company of so many other cats and was often overlooked as a cat with an attitude problem. We pulled him from the shelter and the first two weeks in foster care were very overwhelming for him. Then he began to trust his foster humans and let his guard down.

Now Big Kitty is a loving lap cat who enjoys spending his time getting his hair brushed and looking out the window. He is estimated to be between 4-8 years old. He does okay with other cats, but would be happy to be the one and only feline to sit on your lap and purr purr purr.

Contributed by Tracy Smith, Animal Care Dispatcher

He is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

Tuffy (A063527) is a handsome orange tabby, about six years old. He’s an indoor cat, trained to use the litter box.

Call 907-863-1444 Clear Creek Cat Rescue: (907) 980-8898

His first home was a boat in Sitka; coming from a fishing town, he loves salmon. His second home had young children and he didn’t much care for the situation. Tuffy would do best in a home with adults or children over the age of 12.

As an older cat, his tolerance for others cats is really limited. He’s not lived with any and prefers to be the only cat in the household. Tuffy is quiet and reserved. However, with gentle attention he will respond pleasantly and enjoys attention.

Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter 907-746-5500

Contributed by Angie Lewis, President of Alaska Animal Advocates

Rugby is a gorgeous Maine Coonish boy with an amazing lush coat. He is a big boy and super good looking.

Abbey has made the transition from sled dog to house pet, in an incredible manner. This young husky, at ten months old, has learned that she is well suited to the indoors. She loves to lay on the couch when she plays with her toys.

Rugby has that easy Maine Coon type personality. He is very sweet with his people and he does just fine with other mellow cats and even dogs. He enjoys the attention of gentle kids who give him cuddles and sweet pets.

Abbey is living in a home with eight other dogs, and is learning her place in this remarkable pack.

She sometimes tries to be a bit domineering, but who wouldn’t be in such a busy household. Abbey hasn’t had a potty accident in about a month – very smart gal!

Come meet Abbey and learn more about her. Call Angie at 841-3173 or email Alaska Animal Advocates at akaarescue@hotmail.com

He would love a home with a welcoming lap and a comfy place to lounge and nap, and which also has a safe yard where he can go out and smell the flowers.

Rugby is about eight years old, half of a normal cat lifetime into his life and so ready to share the next decade with a loving family.

Call 631-1901 Clear Creek Cat Rescue: (907) 980-8898

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event considered one of the largest during the summer. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for individuals or companies to support athletes, an event, or the games in general. More information is available on the club’s website at www.alaskascottish.org

Contributed by Meg Voss Alaska Scottish Highland Games 6/24/2017 - 8AM Alaska Scottish Club Alaska State Fairgrounds 2075 Glenn Hwy. Palmer Cost: $5 Youth (Ages 5-16), $15 Advance/Seniors/Military, $20 Adults

The Alaskan Scottish Club will host the 36th Annual Alaska Scottish Highland Games featuring women’s and men’s amateur and professional athletic competitions on June 24th at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer.

Gates open at 8am with piping and drumming solo competitions kicking off the games. Crowd favorite competitions such as the tug o’ war, caber toss, heavy weight throws, weight for height, open stone, braemar stone, men’s and women’s farmers’ walk and the kilted mile will all take place throughout the day.

“In addition to the amateur and professional athletic events, there will be piping and drumming competitions,” explains Games CoChairman, Debbie Herrick.

“We have the full Highland Games with many other entertainments.

These include: Massed bands at opening and closing ceremonies, the Saturday night Ceilidh (pronounced ka-lee) concert with The Angry Brians and The Cameron Highlanders from San Diego, are sure to be a big hit with the crowds.

Children’s games, tug-o-war competition, clan tents, tea tent, shortbread baking, tall tales, food and craft vendors and the ever-popular scotch tasting events are all part of the fun in this one-day Scottish tradition. We hope that people will join us for great family entertainment.”

2017 Pricing: Adult: $15 advance - $20 gate Senior/Military: $15 Youth (Ages 5-16): $5 Advance tickets can be purchased in advance at www.alaskascottish. org, Celtic Treasurers in Anchorage, Fireside Books in Palmer and The Book Shelf in Eagle River.

The Alaskan Scottish Club is a nonprofit organization established to promote the Scottish culture, heritage and teachings to the people of Alaska.

This is achieved this through events, workshops, concerts and other social gatherings in Alaska.

Advertisers and vendors will continue to benefit from this entertaining

Contributed by Mary O’Brien Located at 439 W Elmwood Avenue, we recently started a non-profit next door to her Palmer Liberty Tax. Our immediate goal is to use the new 1000 sq. ft. space as a community center and we are looking for volunteers to teach classes and host workshops for the community.

We also want to offer our space for other non-profits who need a place to hold meetings.

We are not charging a fee. We are only accepting donations and are set up with the IRS to accept tax deductible donations.

We are filling up our summer calendar now! Contact Mary at (907) 775-9051 or Rhonda at (907) 631-1216!

Contributed by Patti Fisher Are you looking for a location for a family outing, a birthday party, a reunion, a softball game or an event for your office or organization? We would like to recommend the sports fields, picnic pavilion and playground in Meadow Lakes.

Located about three miles from the intersection of the Parks Highway and Pittman Road, the sports fields offer a beautiful venue for your event. There

are two softball fields, a basketball and tennis court and a soccer field, plus a large picnic pavilion. The playground is separately fenced and was designed with safety in mind.

the facility. Take Pittman Road north one mile to Karen Rd, follow the signs and blacktop to the end of the road before the cul-de-sac at 1205 N. Kim Drive, approximately two miles.

The fields are operated and maintained by the Meadow Lakes Community Council. There is no fee for the picnic pavilion, but reservations are required. There are small fees to reserve the sports fields.

Make your reservation: facebook.com/pg/mlccak/events

Please come out and take a look at

Or call us at 907-232-2845.

E-mail us at pavilion@mlcccak.org, soccer@mlccak.org or ballfields@ mlccak.org.

COMMUNITY > The Pass at the Park Music Series Friday nights in June from 6PM-9PM at Iditapark’s Green pavilion and amphitheater (near Wonderland Park).

FREE live entertainment, with food trucks and vendors. Bring a blanket or foldable chair!

July 2nd:

June 16th: The Blue Voodoo Band June 23rd: Element 47 June 30th: Braided River Band

> 4th of July Parade! 11:00AM Parade Starts, Downtown Wasilla

> Wasilla’s Centennial 4th of July and Summerfest Events: It will be a celebration like no other!

Come one, come all, enjoy the family friendly festivities of Wasilla’s Centennial 4th of July, and other Summerfest celebrations!

July 1st:

> Summerfest Carnival Kickoff NOON-9PM - at the Menard Sports Center grounds with a Carnival for the entire family to enjoy. Amusement rides for all ages. $30 wristbands lets you ride unlimited! Individual ride tickets are available, too. Enjoy the thrills of the Tilt a Whirl, Ferris Wheel, the Zipper, and Teacups! Carnival food and games galore!

> Carnival Fun at the Menard Continues! NOON-6PM

July 4th:

Celebrate Independence Day July 4th with the City of Wasilla!

> Mayor’s Community Picnic at Iditapark! 1:00-3:00PM - (Lucille St. and Nelson). Enjoy free hotdogs, refreshments, games, and live music by Element 47. Enter the hotdog eating contest, and win a prize! No pets please. > Carnival Fun at the Menard Continues! 3:00-9:00PM > Fireworks at Wonderland Park!

11:00PM Aurora Pyrotechnics Summerfest & Carnival Continue!

July 7th-9th. Kids of all ages will enjoy Wasilla Summerfest 2017 - family fun and entertaining events all happening at the Menard Center! Free parking for all events, and FREE admission for the Carnival Rides.

COMMUNITY

July 7th:

> Carnival Squirts Day! 4PM-9:00PM Kids under 42 inches ride FREE ALL DAY! Carnival rides at the Menard Center; food, games and refreshments. No admission fee! $30 wristbands are available for rides. > Centennial Car Show with the 49th State Street Rodders Club 4:00PM8:00PM Over 100 antique, custom, and classics automobiles from the 1900’s on up all on show inside the Menard Center Arena! FREE Admission, with trophies and People’s Choice and Mayor’s Choice awards! Harley Davidson motorcycles will also be featured. Event sponsored

by MTA.

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Rodeo tickets available at Fred Meyer Customer Service Desk “2 Bucks Off!” Ticket prices at the gate are $12 for adult and $10 for Military, Children under 6 FREE Sponsors: MTA, Carrs, Fred Meyer, Three Bears Alaska, Gorilla Fireworks, Enstar, CrossCountry Church, and The People’s Paper! Hope to see you all in Wasilla for these fun events! Don’t miss it!

> Rodeo Alaska 7:00PM Jr. Rodeo Show, gates open at 5:00PM. Food and refreshments available

July 8th:

> Carnival 12-9:00PM > Centennial Car Show 10AM-8PM > Rodeo Opens 3PM, Starts 5PM

July 9th:

> Carnival 12-6:00PM > Centennial Car Show 10AM-4PM > Rodeo Opens 12PM, Starts 2PM

and paint with a purpose. Call 907-9822675 or register for the event at www. artistsuncorked.com.

Contributed by Abby Lampley Painting On The Green 6/25/2017 – 3:30PM Artists Uncorked Settlers Bay Golf Course, The Albatross Restaurant 7307 S Frontier Dr. Wasilla Tickets: $65 MY House Chair-ity Auction 7/4/2017 – 12:30PM MY House 300 N Willow St. Wasilla Free Admission – (907) 373-4357 It is summertime in Alaska! That means that there are events and activities happening all over the Mat-Su Valley

for families and friends to enjoy! People have come out of hiding and are playing in the sun.

MY House, a non-profit in Wasilla, is no exception. Youth are coming by to get help with finding food, housing and jobs. People in the community stop by to shop at Steam Driven Boutique or to get a coffee at Gathering Grounds Café.

Sometimes they come to do both!

This summer, MY House has two community fundraisers coming up that we think everyone will enjoy!

Painting on the Green: Painting on the Green is our first MY House fundraiser. This is an Artists

Uncorked painting event where you get to paint a picture of Alaska’s beautiful scenery. It is happening on June 25th from 3:30PM – 6:00PM at Settler’s Bay Golf Course and The Albatross Restaurant. Tickets are $65 each and includes hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine, along with everything you need to paint your art piece. All proceeds from this event go to MY House, so come

MY House Chair-ity Auction: The 2017 Chair-ity Auction is MY House’s second fundraiser of the summer. The auction will be on July 4th from around 12:30PM – 1:30PM (we anticipate starting the auction at the end of the parade) at MY House.

Anyone who wants to donate a chair for the auction can bring the chair to MY House by June 30th.

You can call 373-4357 for more info.

There are a lot of great things happening at MY House, but we couldn’t do these great things without our community.

Help us raise money so that we can continue to make a difference in our community’s youth!