Contributed by Josh Fryfogle Print is dead, that’s what they said. More than a decade later, this monthly publication is still growing strong! I couldn’t be more happy with how far we’ve come, and where we’re going in the near future. Back then, when this paper was still very new, what I heard the most is that the medium of print was on the way out. Everyone would be getting their news online, I was told. I take a little pride in that my response then is the same as it is today. It’s not the paper that’s the problem - people don’t trust the media. They trust their neighbors.
The ‘Fake News’ epithet of today was yet to be spoken, but the signs were there all along. People were getting their news online, but they were getting it from the strangest of sources... each other. Go figure. Social media was beginning to take the world by storm, and many corporate publications were struggling to fit in to that new ecosystem of information. The problem wasn’t paper, and the solution wasn’t internet. The problem was that the information systems developed by these large corporations did not serve the public interest, and left the public feeling
left out of the conversation. The ‘professional’ politicians, publishers, and pontificators no longer had a lock on the flow of information. As they lost their grip on the narrative, the people began to reclaim their first amendment rights and responsibilities, through social media, both online and in print! Freedom of the (printing) press belongs to each individual. Why? Why did the framers enshrine this idea that anyone should have the ability to mass produce their thoughts? What was the spirit behind the first amendment? What were they trying to achieve?
ALASKA RACEWAY PARK IS OPEN FOR 2019 MORE ON PAGE 2 OF THE PEOPLE’S PAPER
Contributed by Susan Olson Nestled in the trees at the edge of Flat Lake is a faith-based summer camp dedicated to giving every kid a week-long adventure. Even getting to Camp Tukuskoya is an adventure. The traditional summer camp, complete with cabins, a lodge with soaring windows, and dedicated staff, is accessible only by boat. This idyllic camp on the lakeshore offers adventure, new friendships, and activities from morning to bedtime designed to give every camper an unforgettable week. When my own sons wanted to experience summer camp, Camp Tukuskoya was the one we chose. It was close by but isolated enough to give them a feeling of independence, of being on their own. But I knew better. Every one of the camp staff is chosen because of their values and their commitment to providing a safe environment for the campers. The camp counselors, recruited for their maturity and commitment to helping campers develop, come from all over the country. Most are college students who fondly recall their own camp experiences and want to give
the same back to a new generation of campers. Leaving my boys at the dock, watching them motor away in the camp boat, was always a moment of wondering for all of us. What would the next week promise to be like? Would they make friends? Did they pack enough stuff? I shouldn’t have worried. On their return, there were nonstop tales of swimming, canoeing, and campfire stories. There were reviews of the home-cooked meals and the group activities that challenged them physically, mentally, and socially. They began the week with a pack of clean clothes, a willing spirit, and a touch of apprehension. They returned with the same bag now stuffed with clothes that had seen the great outdoors, but more importantly, they’d gained confidence and new skills and found new friendships. Eventually, when they reached their teens, my sons attended Camp Tukuskoya’s Teen Extreme Camp. Among the activities they enjoyed were whitewater kayaking, rock climbing, and mountain biking at
Hatcher’s Pass. They came home with bigger tales and better skills and the ever-present pack of dirty clothes. Maybe dirtier. If you’re looking for a summer camp experience for your little adventurers or your big ones, Camp Tukuskoya offers a Christ-centered, valuesbased camp that promotes physical, social, and spiritual growth. Cabin life, the recreational fun, the songs and stories around the campfire in the evenings all add up to an unforgettable week.
VALLEY GARDEN CLUB ANNUAL PLANT SALE MORE ON PAGE 12 OF THE PEOPLE’S PAPER
Camps this summer for ages 8-12 are July 7-14, and July 21-28. Teen Extreme Camp, for ages 13-16, takes place June 30-July 7. For more information, go to the camp webpage at www.alaskaconference. org/departments/alaska-camps. You can also call (907) 346-1004 and ask for summer camp information. My sons are too old for camp now, but my oldest has spent two summers giving back to the camp he grew to love, both as a volunteer and as camp staff. Camp Tukuskoya’s vision, to prepare young people for a life of service to others, had come full circle.
MAT-SU COLLEGE: MACHETANZ ARTS FEST
MORE ON PAGE 13 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE
VALLEY ARTS ALLIANCE: ART ON FIRE 2019 MORE ON PAGE 15 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE
COMMUNITY & EVENTS
Contributed by Michelle Lackey Maynor The much-anticipated racing season at Alaska Raceway Park kicked off Mother’s Day Weekend with two days of racing! Along with the exciting NASCAR & IHRA racing this year, Alaska Raceway Park has some exciting announcements for race fans as well! This year, Alaska Raceway Park has simplified and reduced the ticket prices for both tracks with adult general admission being $15, $12 for senior/military, kids 11 through 15 years old pay $10, and free entry for children under the age of 10! Alaska Raceway Park will also have new concessions stand items from the wonderful team that operates Stella’s home of the famous gourmet tots,
and of course our new swag celebrating 55 years of racing in Alaska and celebrating our 2018 champions! The drag strip is again buzzing with questions around all the 2018 champions and which one can repeat, who will be contending for the championship, and which rookies will try and steal a win. The closest points battle was Alex Van Nice from Wasilla beating Sterling’s Richard Wall by 15 points last season. The NASCAR short track is entering its fourth season of racing and if last season was any indication of what to expect this season, you can bet we will see even more action, first time winners, and close points battles. The closest battle was Anchorage’s Doug Sheldon dominating the final race of the season and beat the Fairbanks
Contributed by Glen Butts (The Dude) “Rally 2 the Ranch” motorcycle/ automobile ride to shine a light into the darkness of addiction” This is the 6th annual Rally 2 the Ranch run! June 1st @ 10am kick stands up, in front of the old Rock pizzeria behind Northway Mall Anchorage (9:30 meet and greet with COFFEE and DOUGHNUTS), then the adventure begins to Nugen’s Ranch. It will be ending about 1PM, with stops at Denali Harley Davidson, Matsu Alano Club, and KGB Three Bears of Alaska (for gas) along the way.
Contributed by Mary Beth Feldman Many local families are making the Country Fair at Saint Herman Orthodox Church a yearly tradition. On June 1, 2019, from 11-3, the ninth annual Country Fair will draw friends and neighbors together for carnival style games, relay races, delicious food, and shopping for local, handcrafted goods. Many will also participate in our Cupcake Bake-Off competition which has prizes in both children and adult categories. Come out and kick off the summer at the annual Country Fair at Saint Herman Orthodox Church, 6988 N. En Dove Road, Wasilla, Alaska, 99654.
Midnight Son Riders chapter801 of Christian Motorcyclists Association, and Second To None MC hold the event to help bring awareness and “funding” to the recovery that’s needed from the rampant abuse of drugs and alcohol in our community. Nugen’s Ranch is one of Alaska’s only adult recovery “long term” centers we have. It’s a terrific facility located at the end of KGB road toward Point Mackenzie, outside of Wasilla. Nugen’s Ranch puts on an open house fun day, that the whole community is invited to, and our rally ends at the ranch – just in time to enjoy their festivities. We in the motorcycle community have seen the hardships that drugs and
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
PAGE 2
Borough gang of racers. We hope you came out on Saturday, May 11! Be sure to stay in touch with us on social media, Alaska Raceway Park is on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, use #RaceAK to find some of our posts online. Plus, raceak.com is the home of the official Alaska Raceway Park website. There, you can find the full schedule for both tracks, point standing, and look back at the history of past champions. Alaska Raceway Park is located at mile 10.5 of the Old Glen Highway, right before the Jim Creek Recreational Campground. Looking forward to seeing you at the races! www.raceak.com
alcohol can cause to families first hand. We hold this event to show the recovery that’s possible from addiction to the community – by putting on the run every year and getting the public involved by joining us for an awesome ride out to the Ranch, to enjoy the fun, and food the ranch provides “free of charge,” to all that show… That way, people who want to find out more about the recovery process that happens out there can get the firsthand information. Come join us for a fun time that all will enjoy. You don’t actually need a motorcycle, just follow us out on our ride from Northway mall to Nugen’s Ranch or just join in at one of the stops along the way, after signing a release form. (times and stops are on the flyer provided in the article on our Facebook site). Please help “SHINE A LIGHT INTO THE DARKNESS OF ADDICTION!” To participate, all riders/drivers MUST sign a release form, verifying they are taking their own responsibility for themselves and any passengers to, in and from the event, and also that they are an insured licensed rider/driver, operating a legal, roadworthy vehicle. Find us on Facebook: Rally 2 the Ranch, or text for more info: 8928099. Thank you for your time, and God Bless!
Like our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ SaintHermansAnnualCountryFair, or our Instagram account, @countryfairalaska, for updates.
Contributed by Ailis Vann Every summer, Palmer commemorates its founding with the Colony Days celebration, held the second weekend in June, featuring a parade, farmer’s markets, open houses, a popular 5-k run and other community events. Settled by over
200 families in 1935, Palmer has grown into a thriving community rich with culture, creativity and that fun-loving neighborly spirit that feels like home even to its visitors. Bring the family out to this year’s Colony Days celebration from June seventh through ninth and experience what makes Palmer such a vibrant and happy town. Colony Days is proudly sponsored by BP, MTA, Matanuska Valley Federal
Credit Union, Body in Balance Physical Therapy, Usibelli Coal Mine, MEA, Credit Union 1, Alaska USA, Lynden, First National Bank Alaska, Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, Alaska IBEW Local 1547, Cruz Companies Alaska, and the City of Palmer. COLONY DAYS June 7 - 9 11:00am-3:00pm 6/8/19 - Concrete to Clouds & TBA 6/9/19 - Boogie Shoes
COMMUNITY & EVENTS
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
PAGE 3
Contributed by Justin Giles About 8 years ago, I found myself home alone and bummed out on Christmas day. I had recently been through a bitter divorce, and the wife and kids were elsewhere Loneliness stings. Out of nowhere I received a call from a friend who invited me to come down to the Menard Center for a free Christmas dinner. I thanked him but resisted, thinking I would be taking limited food in a soup line that should be going to someone more financially needy. He insisted that was not the case and said, “if you don’t get down here, I’ll come getcha!” I relented, not wanting to offend my friend mainly, and somewhat annoyed, headed to the Menard. That decision, I must honestly say, changed my life. The crowd was massive on the large turf. Dozens of uniformly and festively decorated tables were covered and aligned with military precision. On the stage a tuba band was jovially belting out “Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer” which made me chuckle as I recalled the most famous line from a certain Chevy Chase movie. The air was filled with the aromas of ham, turkey and pumpkin pie. Everywhere people were eating from plates heaped with food, smiling and laughing... and talking to their valley neighbors. We’re a motley crew here in Alaska, and some of us are definitely more motley than others. I saw picture perfect families searching out and sitting around some of the more motley looking people who were sitting by themselves, their faces lighting up with genuine heartfelt smiles. I saw little kids delivering pie and coffee to apparent widows who reached out and hugged them. Someone over the microphone yelled “Happy Birthday Jesus!” and the crowd cheered. The feeling of community at this event is hard to put into words.
Contributed by Ailis Vann If you’re looking to start your weekends off right this summer, look no further. In quaint downtown Palmer, the boutique capital of Alaska, everyone is poised to welcome the return of Friday Fling. This weekly community gathering is a popular summer highlight, complete with plant starts, produce, jarred goods, homemade crafts and jewelry, delicious foods and an exciting summer-long lineup of
Contributed by Kenda Huling The “Monday Market” and “Get the Junk Out of the Trunk” are now one market. The new program is “Grow Mat-Su”, which stands for: Grassroots Opportunities for Women. Grow Mat-Su has now been empowering women by availing them housing and job training for four years. For the upcoming fifth year, the market locations and times are still to be determined. The City of Palmer has recently passed so many restriction (for what they are calling “itinerant stationary
The Wasilla Christmas Friendship Dinner is a tradition that was started by Bob and Judy Bowers and a few close friends nearly 30 years ago. It has steadily grown into, we believe, the largest event of its kind in the nation. About 600 volunteers prepare around 800 pounds of ham, 150 turkeys, hundreds of pies and enough fixings to serve over 5,000 meals. A fleet of buses picks up people in need of rides and brings them to the Menard Center. Hundreds of meals and gifts and more importantly visitors are delivered to the lonely home bound. The logistics of this completely volunteer-run event are massive. Organizational meetings begin in February. Hundreds of volunteers donate their whole Christmas day to make this happen. Many donate dozens of hours helping prepare and clean up. Some like Bob and Judy Bowers donate many hundreds of hours throughout the year. An event this size also requires money and material donations to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars. Last year an ATV and enough cash to pay the federal prize taxes was raffled off to help raise these funds. This year with the generous support of the Palmer Elks Lodge, the Christmas Friendship Dinner is running a cash raffle with a $2000
musical entertainment sponsored by BP. This event takes place every Friday, from 10AM to 5PM, starting May 17 and running until August 16. Along with attractive historic sites and buildings, Palmer’s beautiful downtown district boasts an impressive array of shops and eateries year-round.
first prize, $1500 second, $1000 third and three $500 prizes. The drawing will be held at an all ages dinner/ silent auction party with an open bar and mobile DJ. The Elks deck overlooking Finger Lake alone is worth the visit. Some great silent auction prizes donated by the community include training by Point Blank Firearms, a fishing trip courtesy of Kenai River Drifter’s Lodge, and passes to Fly Trampoline Park in Wasilla. When: July 21st from 3-10pm. Drawing at 6PM, Silent auctions close about 7. Where: Palmer Elks Lodge, 2600 N. Barry’s Resort Drive Wasilla What: $10 Pulled Pork/Southern Coleslaw/Dessert Dinner, Raffle Drawing, Silent Auction The Wasilla Friendship Dinner is the feelgood event of the year here in the Mat-Su. The event is far more than just the sum of its considerable parts. Jesus taught to give to the poor, visit the lonely and love one another. You can do all three every Christmas at the Menard. Please consider having dinner July 21st with your valley neighbors, to help with this year’s fundraising. For more information visit christmasfriendshipdinner.org or call (907) 373-8663
FRIDAY FLING MUSIC SCHEDULE:
MUSIC FROM 11:30-1:30 EVERY FRIDAY
Now, when you visit Palmer on Fridays this summer you can also taste the delights and enjoy the fun-filled festivities at Friday Fling! So, what are you waiting for? Circle those Fridays on your calendar and come join us at Friday Fling for a healthy dose of family fun all summer long.
5/17/19 Tommy and the Tall Boys 5/24/19 Lulu Small 5/31/19 Jerry Wessling Band 6/07/19 Emma Hill 6/14/19 Mountain Waxwings 6/21/19 John Cook 6/28/19 Daddy Issues feat. Harp Daddy, Tamara and Lulu Small 7/5/19 AK Acoustic Projekt feat. Shane LaBoucane & Jerry Wessling 7/12/19 Diana Z feat. Matt Suddock 7/19/19 Hurricane Dave 7/26/19 JUNOsmile 8/2/19 Carhart Bros. 8/9/19 Larry Zarella
vendors”) that doing the market in the Palmer City limits is now prohibitive.
more women needing our services and we want to continue to provide a “hand-up” to them.
Palmer raised the rent for the Palmer Depots on weekdays only, and we held our market on Mondays. We are actively seeking for a location outside the city limits for our market. This is not ideal for anyone and we thank you for following us and supporting us in this very difficult and disruptive process.
Our market offers farmer market products and local produce, plant starts, handmade artisan crafts, and gently used resale items.
We use the table/booth rental fees from our market toward housing and job training of homeless women in the Mat-Su area. There are many
We are awaiting our non-profit 501c3 status, so we will also be able to accept donations. For information or to share any possible ideas you may have for a summer location we can use for our market, please call 907-770-3532. Thank you.
COMMUNITY / OPINION
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
PAGE 4
II, garlic is able to help prevent unwanted contraction of our blood vessels and unwanted increases in blood pressure. Contributed by Dori Cranmore Garlic has been used in many cultures for both its culinary and medicinal properties. Folklore shows garlic bringing good luck, protecting against evil, warding off vampires and at the same time, guaranteeing to transform any meal into a bold, aromatic and healthy experience. Native to central Asia, garlic is one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world and has been grown for over 5000 years. Garlic was placed in the tomb of Pharaohs and was given to the slaves that built the Pyramids to enhance their endurance and strength. From a medical history standpoint, the antibacterial and antiviral properties of garlic are perhaps its most legendary feature. Garlic grows as a “bulb,” which averages about 2 inches in height and diameter
and consists of numerous small separate cloves. The taste of garlic is like no other – it hits the palate with a hot pungency that is shadowed by a subtle sweetness. Elephant garlic has larger cloves, but it is more closely related to the leek and therefore does not offer the full health benefits of regular garlic. Garlic is an excellent source of manganese, vitamin B6, a very good source of vitamin C, and a good source of selenium. In recent years, researchers have concentrated on scientifically validating its numerous health benefits including: - Helping improve your iron metabolism. - Effective in lowering blood triglycerides and total cholesterol - Garlic’s unique set of sulfur-containing compounds can help protect us against oxidative stress and inflammation. - By blocking the activity of angiotensin
- Used for the common cold and flu, and also infection from other microbes including yeasts/fungi and worms. - Supplementation can boost the function of the immune system. - At high doses, the sulfur compounds in garlic have been shown to protect against organ damage from heavy metal toxicity. - Garlic oil applied to the skin or nails can treat fungal infections, warts, and corns. - For infants with upper respiratory congestion, garlic oil rubbed on the bottom of the feet can help. - For ear pain or infection, placing a fresh peeled garlic clove at the outside entrance of the ear can help. Garlic oil placed in the ear often can reduce pain and inflammation. Caution: Garlic-in-oil mixtures stored at room temperature provide perfect
a cone now, is the beginning of the mouthpiece. Next, they begin working the middle by heating and stretching the neck. Contributed by Tony Delarm It takes years of experience to master glass blowing and an even more creative mind to be successful. As cannabis retail facilities open across Alaska, a surge of glass hand pipes has hit the market, reducing price and offering
more variety. These pipes are handy since they are easy to clean and small. But just how are these pipes made? The average artist starts with a tube of glass, that is melted by a torch in the middle to begin the mouthpiece. As the glass cools, the artist can separate the tube into a “bulb” by actually breaking it in the weak point. This hole, that is shaped more like
“Fuming, dichro, striping, wrap and rakes, caning, latticino, latticello, reticello, or the use of millefiore or murrine techniques (to name just a few) can be as simple or as complex as the artist desires and is capable of.” (Smoke Cartel, 2016) As the glass is heated, the artist can shape and mold pieces like the “bowl” end and finish smoothing the glass all around. They can even “form” the bowl
EDUCATION / COMMUNITY Contributed by Melissa Keefe $6,000 Awarded to Five Alaska High School Students! Congratulations to the five high school students selected as recipients of the Alaska State Fair 2019 scholarships! This year, the Fair received 61 applications and selected five students to receive scholarships totaling $6,000. 1st place, $2,500: Sofia Main Sofia is graduating this year from Service High School in Anchorage and will pursue a Bachelor of Computer Science degree at the University of Notre Dame. “I want to become a computer scientist to create more effective and affordable assistive technology. My firsthand experience of seeing how assistive technology helps students with disabilities educationally and socially pushes me to make assistive technology even better,” she said. In her Fair essay, Sofia proposed a new event titled “Garbage Can, Not Garbage Cannot,” which would involve
high schools decorating Fair garbage cans with a goal to expand student participation in the Fair and provide enjoyable and educational art around the fairgrounds. 2nd place, $1,500: Maria Parez Maria is a senior graduating from Service High School in Anchorage, and plans to attend the University of Rochester. She is also part of the Biomedical Career Academy and volunteered 100 hours at Providence Alaska Medical Center last year. In her application essay, Maria explained her idea for a kids’ scavenger hunt at the Fair, in which young fairgoers would explore the fairgrounds, learning about Alaska history, animals and safety, and visit vendor booths, with a side benefit of increasing traffic and sales for participating vendors. “A scavenger hunt would serve as a great way to give families something to do at the Fair, while educating children,” Maria wrote. 3rd place, $1,000: Collin Herbert Collin is a senior at Colony High School
conditions for producing botulism, regardless of whether the garlic is fresh or has been roasted. Store fresh garlic in either an uncovered or a loosely covered container in a cool, dark place away from exposure to heat and sunlight. Pre-peeled garlic does not retain the medicinal value of fresh. The minimum effective dose for therapeutic effects is one clove eaten with meals, two or three times a day. However, keep in mind that there are some downsides to garlic, such as bad breath. Garlic can be fatal for pets. This information is intended for educational purposes only. Not intended to cure, diagnose or treat disease. Dori Cranmore is a Registered Nurse and owner of All About Herbs, Inc in Wasilla. 376-8327
by simply pressing it against a hard, flat surface, creating a resting place on the bottom. In this stage is also where artists can use a “flare” technique to create swirls and effects. While this obviously isn’t everything you need to know about how it’s done, a big point is how much time and work it takes. That’s what makes our Glass Liquidation Sale so special. We are selling high quality, glass “art”. Our glass will be on sale from May 15thJune 15th with a chance to get 50% OFF! At Alaskan Sweet Vapes, 224 N Yenlo St. Wasilla, Ak.
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
in Palmer, where is he also a member of the Thee Colony High School Marching Band. After graduating, Collin will attend the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. “Music has become my life and my life goal. I want to gain as much knowledge as I can to come back to Alaska and inspire our youth here the way that I have been inspired,” he said. In his essay, Collin suggested an interactive musical exhibit showcasing different musical genres with information, instruments and handson activities, with a goal to “positively impact relational connections as well as educate the community on the history of musical genres.” Honorable Mention, $500: Citshiab Yang - Citshiab is a junior at Bartlett High School in Anchorage, and plans to attend the University of Alaska Anchorage. The first in her family to attend college, Citchiab’s career goal is to become a dermatologist. In her essay, Citshiab explained her idea for a booth at the Fair where she would share her Hmong culture through food,
PAGE 4
clothing, music and an informational poster. “I believe that my culture should be known,” she wrote. “Alaska is such a diverse community and the Fair brings everyone there. It is the best time to let others know who the Hmong people are.” Honorable Mention, $500: Wyatt Chadwick - Wyatt is a senior at Bartlett High School in Anchorage, where he will graduate as the school’s salutatorian this year. An athlete and Eagle Scout, Wyatt plans to attend Utah State University. In his humorous essay, Wyatt (who recently discovered his unique talent of balancing things like chairs on his chin) encouraged the Fair to create a balancing act to entertain fairgoers and give them an opportunity to try balancing for themselves. “Nothing is better than hearing someone walk around a corner and shout at you, ‘What the heck! You have a chair on your chin!” Wyatt quipped. Fair scholarships are open to all Alaska junior and senior high school students who plan to attend college or vocational school. The next call for applications will be made early in 2020. Visit alaskastatefair.org for more info.
HEALTH / COMMUNITY
Contributed by Katie Stark Mat-Su Regional Medical Center’s annual Bicycle Safety Rodeo for 2019 will take place Saturday, June 22, at the Menard Sports Complex, from 10AM to noon. This year’s event will include free drawings for bicycles and bicycle helmets will be given away to the first 100 attendees. It will also feature a bicycle obstacle course, presentations from medical professionals and safety experts and equipment safety checks by Backcountry Bike and Ski and Alaska
Contributed by Dawn Paulson Every family goes through a hard time at one time or another, some families face more crises than others. Is crisis keeping you from being the best parent you can be? The key to making it through a difficult time is having a support system such as family and friends. For some parents, this is not an option. Safe Families for Children seeks to help parents in crisis get back on their feet by providing short-term care for their children. How does Safe Families for Children work? Safe Families surrounds families in crisis with caring, compassionate community. Our family of volunteers provide a loving, temporary home for your children while you deal with your crisis. Our goal is to keep your kids safe and your family intact. Once you feel like you and your home environment are stable and healthy, we’ll work with you to reunite your family right away. Melissa was a single mom who grew up in foster care. She loved her 2-year-old son William more than anything, but struggled with balancing her job, parenting, and own mental health. When she lost her job and felt completely overwhelmed, she reached out for help. Melissa was matched with Karen and Nathen and their school aged children. Melissa got to meet the host family first and told them about William’s favorite foods and bedtime routine. William stayed with Karen and Nathan for about a month. Their kids loved William and played well together. Melissa visited William every Sunday and talked to him on the phone throughout the week. During the hosting, Melissa got a job and was able to adjust her medication and start counseling. William returned to Melissa but the relationship with Karen and Nathan continued. A Network of Support - In addition to host families, struggling families are paired with a Family Coach and Family Friends. A Family Coach will come alongside you during crisis and walk it with you. They will help
Bicycle Center. Be sure to bring your personal bicycle and helmet in order to receive a safety check. Last year’s bike rodeo was attended by more than 250 children and parents, according to event organizers. The rodeo is designed for riders of all ages, but is specifically targeted toward younger riders. There will be free snacks, refreshments, promotional items and other fun giveaways. The Bicycle Safety Rodeo is sponsored by Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, the City of Wasilla and the Curtis Menard Sports Center.
you set goals and break those goals down into steps to accomplish them. They give encouragement and support during difficult times. Family Friends help with small tasks such as transportation and meals. Stephanie was a mom of 2-yearold twins and was pregnant. She lived outside of town, had no transportation, and had no one who could take care of her twins when she gave birth. Her OB nurse shared with her about Safe Families for Children and helped her make the call to learn more. Stephanie was matched with Larry & Cathy. Cathy was also pregnant with her 3rd child and the moms were able to bond over their pregnancy woes. Cathy and her kids met up with Stephanie and her kids a couple times for playdates before delivery day came. Stephanie was also introduced to a Family Coach, Sabrina. Sabrina would pick up Stephanie and her girls to go grocery shopping and talk about what Stephanie wanted to do with her hosting time. When delivery day came, Sabrina stepped in to help so Stephanie was not alone. Larry and Cathy hosted the twins for about a week so that Stephanie could go home, recover from delivery, and prepare to be a mom of three little girls. A Few Important Things to Know: - Safe Families is NOT a foster care or adoption service. - You maintain full custody of your children and can request their return at any time. - You will have regular visits with your children. - Volunteer families are extensively screened with a background check, home study and references. - Volunteers receive no compensation and serve to help others. - Children ages 0-18 can be hosted. - Children can be hosted for as short as a couple of days to several months - Every attempt will be made to maintain your child’s daily routine. - We are committed to reuniting parents and children as soon as possible.
CONTACT THE 24-HOUR HELPLINE TO LEARN MORE 907-277-0925
ADULT PIANO LESSONS Hitchcock Piano Studio ........ 745-3134 APPAREL & CLOTHING All Seasons Clothing ........ 357-0123 D’s Tuxedo ........ 707-6585 Mila’s Alterations ........ 830-8339 ART & CRAFTS Artists Uncorked… 982-2675 The Gallery ........ 745-1420 BOOKSTORE A Black Sheep Shop ......... 376-8198 Black Birch Books ...... 373-2677 Fireside Books ........ 745-2665 CAFÉ & COFFEE Alaska Artisan Coffee ........ 745-5543 Gathering Grounds ........ 376-4404 Vagabond Blues……..745-2233 CANNABIS RETAILER Matanuska Cannabis Co. ...... 745-4211 CREATIVE ENTERTAINMENT Artists Uncorked ........ 982-2675 EDUCATION Learning Essentials ........ 357-3990 FOOTWEAR Northern Comfort ........ 376-5403 HEALTH & WELLNESS All About Herbs ........ 376-8327 Just Botanicals ....... 414-3663 Lone Wolf Aura ........ 631-0482 HOME DÉCOR Peak Boutique ........ 746-3320 PIZZA Humdingers Pizza ........ 745-7499 PHLEBOTOMY SERVICES Valley Phlebotomy ........ 376-6435 PRINT SERVICES The UPS Store ........ 746-6245 REPAIR, RESTORATION Comtronics ........ 373-2669 S&S Drilling ...... 746-0225 The Powdercoat Shop .... 841-1300 SPECIALTY GIFTS Alaska Midnite Scents ........ 357-7364 Non-Essentials ........ 745-2258 The Boardwalk Shop ........ 357-8980 TANNING The Tanning Hut ........ 376-3324 THRIFT SHOPS Steam Driven Boutique ........ 376-4404 Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Stores ........ 376-5708 TOYS Just Imagine Toys ........ 357-1543 Learning Essentials .......... 357-3990
COMMUNITY / OPINION Contributed by Faunus Doney The town of Palmer, Alaska is a sight to behold. It’s unparalleled beauty, coupled with its proximity to Anchorage, puts it in a unique position. It’s people, of course, are a sight to behold as well. Strong, resilient, intelligent, the people of Palmer include farmers, artists and craftspeople who are constantly working to improve their lives while respecting the history of their town. Preserving a town’s history, especially a town like Palmer, is one of the most important things we can do as citizens of the Earth. To live here is to be a part that history. When you respect and preserve the history of a town, you are preserving and respecting its personality, the very thing that gives it character; the thing that has brought an influx of new residents and new breath. When most people think of preserving history, they envision restoring old buildings and historical sites. While that is certainly a very important part, preserving the history of our wonderful town is so much more than that. Preserving our history has many benefits, from improving our economy to becoming more environmentally conscious. When a community has a tangible presence of its history it improves that community’s culture. Preserving local history also helps to improve property values and tax revenues, especially when historic buildings are renovated to become the focal point of the town. It is incredibly important for the citizens of Palmer to take pride in their history and their heritage. Having pride in where you come from improves your connection to your community, to your neighbors. A strong community makes for a strong town, and Palmer, as we all know, is an incredibly strong town. Of course, the thing that is on all of our minds is the economy. How can we ensure that we are able to remain sustainable, and successful? Historic preservation has been proven to provide jobs, increase household income, and increase tourism. Our history is the heart and soul of our town, and it is vital to our future success that we work to protect it. In our beautiful town, our history has been our heartbeat; and its coined the phrase “Alaska at its Best!” We have worked tirelessly to respect our town’s history and continue to work to embrace it. As we work, however, our town faces what most small towns face: the uncertainty of the future.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, smaller communities often struggle to adapt to changing conditions, and often rely on one economic sector. Communities like ours have seen their job opportunities shrink, and subsequently see their residents move elsewhere. In order to avoid this, we should incorporate progressive, economic development into our community. A great way to revitalize the community and encourage economic growth is to build upon our existing assets. Our community has incredible natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, historic areas and a strong local culture. We can work to develop a cohesive identity around our history, in order to attract more tourism, which will in turn attract more businesses. As I am sure we are all aware, the future is all about sustainability. We have been able to take advantage of the beautiful natural resources right outside our doorsteps for decades, and in order to ensure future generations of Palmer residents have the same opportunity, we need to focus on sustainable and environmentallyconscious paths forward. This is where the residents of Palmer come in. Every single person in this town should get a say in the future development in order to create a vision and a plan for the future that has the town’s best interest in mind. The residents of Palmer are the ones who are here every day, living and working and socializing in this beautiful town. They know the inside secrets, the hidden treasures of the town that can be preserved and enhanced for future growth. What the town of Palmer needs is a plan for strategic economic growth that will allow us to maintain our historic character. This includes intentional planning of development, which includes considering where development should – and more importantly, should not – go. As we work towards reinforcing our infrastructure and embracing development, we should also focus on policies that will allow us to protect green space and provide a place for recreation. This is especially important to consider for development. Towns that structure themselves with the people in mind thrive. A great example of this are the cities and towns that have redeveloped their downtowns around walking, biking, and public transit.
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
PAGE 6
This helps promote economic growth downtown, and also helps to reduce air pollution. The big question is, how do we simultaneously preserve our history and redevelop our infrastructure with the future in mind? It takes serious planning, and serious commitment. We need to focus on supporting our greenspace, helping our existing businesses thrive in the current economy, and creating demand for new businesses. With clean, walkable greenspace comes the desire for families to move into nearby neighborhoods. As families move into nearby neighborhoods, local businesses start to see an uptick in revenue. As local business’ revenue increases, it increases the desire for other companies to come to town, thus sparking economic growth. We can honor the history of Palmer and jump-start the economy by embracing partnerships between organizations that already exist here. Partnerships between local health care organizations and the city planning department could lead to improved recreation areas and biking trails. In Partnerships with local not-for-profits, Markets, and religious organizations; new Festivals and cultural events will become more prevalent. This leads people of all backgrounds together and develop a more diverse, respectful, and safer community. Embracing and opening doors to better understanding an individual, a family, a sub culture and the chain continues to a larger group and more people. Soon, with open minds, love, and understanding new traditions and new events and festivals appear and through this catalyst a unified and strengthen community is formed from the humble beginnings of our great city with a bright inclusive and stronger community for the future! Truly embracing “Alaska At Its Best!” Partnerships between local farmers and the city facilities department can help spark a new desire for more markets and community gardens. We are fortunate enough to live in an absolutely spectacular place, and we find ourselves at the crux of a major opportunity. If we engage our community and focus on preserving our historical roots, while also working toward progressive and economic growth, I am confident we will continue to find ourselves in a town that we are ALL so proud of.
The framers knew that it was the individual’s Liberty to use the printing press that was revolutionary, not the printing press or the paper. Contributed by Josh Fryfogle Print is dead, that’s what they said. More than a decade later, this monthly publication is still growing strong! I couldn’t be more happy with how far we’ve come, and where we’re going in the near future. Back then, when this paper was still very new, what I heard the most is that the medium of print was on the way out. Everyone would be getting their news online, I was told. I take a little pride in that my response then is the same as it is today. It’s not the paper that’s the problem - people don’t trust the media. They trust their neighbors. The ‘Fake News’ epithet of today was yet to be spoken, but the signs were there all along. People were getting their news online, but they were getting it from the strangest of sources... each other.
The problem wasn’t paper, and the solution wasn’t internet. The problem was that the information systems developed by these large corporations did not serve the public interest, and left the public feeling left out of the conversation. The ‘professional’ politicians, publishers, and pontificators no longer had a lock on the flow of information. As they lost their grip on the narrative, the people began to reclaim their first amendment rights and responsibilities, through social media, both online and in print! Freedom of the (printing) press belongs to each individual. Why? Why did the framers enshrine this idea that anyone should have the ability to mass produce their thoughts? What was the spirit behind the first amendment? What were they trying to achieve?
Go figure.
Never before was it possible to practically achieve such a massive communication effort. It changed everything, from the church to the state, and the framers knew this.
Social media was beginning to take the world by storm, and many corporate publications were struggling to fit in to that new ecosystem of information.
They saw the potential, and that the human spirit to communicate with each other, and to define our own destiny had never been so easily fulfilled. Still, it wasn’t about the paper.
Now, we are beginning to see that the internet is not a safe place for this Liberty anymore. Just like before with the print industry, the corporations have overtaken the medium of the internet, and they are beginning to exclude those voices that most of us can agree are heinous. But a seed, shoved down into the darkness of dirt, will surely proliferate. That’s why this publication is still committed to our original philosophy, that every individual person deserves to be heard - because some ideas are good, and some are bad, and we can usually tell the difference when these ideas are presented side by side. Thank you for 12 years of reading, and writing, this publication.
COMMUNITY / OPINION Contributed by Helen Hegener Alaskan History Magazine is an independently produced magazine portraying the colorful and important past of the Last Frontier, as an interesting and exciting journey of exploration, sharing stories of the people, places and events which shaped Alaska’s history. The inaugural issue, May-June, 2019, featured articles about the construction of the Alaska Railroad, Yost’s Roadhouse on the Richardson Trail, the barns of the 1935 Matanuska Colony Project, the 1909 Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition, and
Contributed by Kate Stavick Life is unpredictable. No matter how much you may plan, life will throw you a curveball. It could be an unexpected rainfall at your outdoor wedding, or the power going out during the big moment of the biggest game of the season, or the battery dying as you are about to capture an epic photo of a bear catching a salmon while an eagle soars above. Things just happen that we didn’t plan. Did life throw you a curveball when you were in high school? Sometimes life throws a curveball and finishing high school was not possible. Maybe you needed to work to help provide for your family or raise a child. Maybe you thought you wouldn’t need a diploma to follow the path you wanted to pursue. There are many reasons people do not finish high school
Contributed by Valley Performing Arts After a careful and thoughtful review of the show and how it was going to be presented, it was decided to cancel the performance of A Bunch of Amateurs. Valley Performing Arts strives to provide quality live theatre and concerns about the artistic
Contributed by Nan Potts Who would have thought depicting life, in this case fictional, would shut down a local production due to its perceived contents? Well, it’s happened. Three days prior to opening, a spokesman for the Valley Performing Arts announced the cancellation of A Bunch of Amateurs. When Valley Performing Arts purchased the licensing for the play, A Bunch of Amateurs, is unknown. That is privy to the Producer. It was scheduled to be VPA’s last performance of the 2019 season. Both the film and the play depict an aging actor who is washed up in Hollywood and gets a second chance when his agent books him in Shakespeare’s play, King Lear. Expecting to be performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company, he accepts. To his dismay, he finds himself in the quaint country village of Stratford in Suffolk, England, working with a bunch of amateurs! If you enjoy British humor, it’s a frolicking romp of sensual misconceptions and misunderstandings by the English countryfolk and the American hasbeen. Written by Ian Hislop and Nick
the All Alaska Sweepstakes sled dog races in Nome. Additional articles highlighted the pioneer photographers of Alaska, a photo gallery of snowshoes, half a dozen classic books from Alaska’s past, and an excerpt from Addison Powell’s 1902 explorations of the Copper River Valley. Alaskan History Magazine is published bimonthly, printed in full color, with no advertising, and the 48-page issues are perfect-bound with sturdy covers for safekeeping. The managing editor is Alaskan author Helen Hegener, whose books include Alaskan Roadhouses,
and earn their diploma. If you are among the 39 million adults in the U.S. who never graduated from high school and thought it was too late to earn your high school equivalency diploma, fear not. It is quite possible to earn this life-changing credential. Having your GED can impact job opportunities, open doors for training and improve your sense of accomplishment and esteem. Earning your GED is simpler than you may think. It is broken down in to four parts-Math, Language Arts, Science and Social Studies. The exams measure basic skills in these subjects, knowledge and your ability to apply them. Taking some time, a few hours a week, to brush up on skills you may have forgotten, or utilize knowledge you did not know you acquired through life skills, can go a long way to accomplishing your goal of a GED. But why bother, you may ask? Earning your GED can help you earn and keep a job, move up in your current field, or perhaps move into something new
interpretation of some of the situations required the Board to make the appropriate decision to not do the show. Some of the feedback we’ve received has been critical of the Board’s timing and initial oversight of the script... we agree and accept some of the criticism. There were other factors that
Newman, ‘Amateurs’ was originally a screenplay for David Parfitt’s 2008 film. Starring Burt Reynolds, Samantha Bond, Sir Derek Jacobi and Imelda Staunton, it was previewed by The Queen (of England) and voted the Royal Film Performance of 2008. As Newman describes in his Author Notes, “The Queen apparently enjoyed it so much that she requested a screening at Sandringham that Christmas.” Several years later it was revised by the authors into a stage production. Again, quoting Newman’s notes, “Whereas the film was written purely from imagination, the play was based far more on our experience of working with a bona fide Hollywood star.” With that said, VPA raised concerns regarding inappropriate language and perceived content for its audiences. It suggested the Director “modify” parts of the script so as not to be “offensive”. In my experience, “offensiveness” is subjective and “in the eye of the beholder”. To enlighten the theater goer, when a producer purchases the licensing for a play, they agree to preform it “as
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
The Alaska Railroad 1902-1923, The First Iditarod, Alaskan Sled Dog Tales, “A Mighty Nice Place:” The 1935 Matanuska Colony Project, The Yukon Quest Trail, and many more. The May-June issue is an anthology of excerpts from her books, future issues will feature a broad range of Alaskan history from multiple sources. Contributions are welcomed, submission guidelines are on the magazine’s website. Published by Northern Light Media, Alaskan History Magazine is $10.00 per
altogether. It will also make you more valuable to your employers, which may open more doors for higher pay, advanced training, and promotions. Did you know that people with a high-school diploma can make up to $385,000 more in their lifetime than people who do not have a diploma? Something else to consider about earning your GED is the positive impact it will have on your family. What you learn, you pass on to your children. Developing healthy learning habits will help you pass these habits to your children. The knowledge you gain in order to pass your GED test will be integral in your own child’s future. Your family benefits because of increased financial security and employment. But more than that, research shows that once parents get their GEDs, they are more likely to encourage their children to seek out educational opportunities, complete educational milestones and maybe go further.
PAGE 7
issue, and $48.00 per year for six issues, both postpaid to U.S. addresses only. Single issues of the magazine are available at Amazon, but subscriptions need to be placed via the website (PayPal or credit card) or postal mail (check or money order). For more information, visit the website at www.alaskan-history.com or on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Alaskan History Magazine, P.O. Box 870515, Wasilla, Alaska 99687.
Finally, earning your GED will give you a sense of pride. It is an impressive accomplishment – one that only 60% of high school graduates can do. By earning your GED, you will feel a sense of pride as you have accomplished something that will better your life, and have proven to yourself that you can do anything you set your mind to. In Alaska, there are a lot of alternative programs for finishing high school, whether finishing online, homeschool, or charter schools, there is something for everyone. Here in the Mat-Su Valley, Mat Su Adult Basic Education, Nine Star Education and Employment Services are committed to helping you through the process and supporting you! Passing the GED exam as an adult is an important career step and resume piece. For more information, please contact us at (907) 373-7833.
we won’t discuss in a public forum. However, the fact remains that VPA is committed to the values of our community. We will work diligently to ensure appropriate programming of performances going forward.
thank them sincerely for their efforts on the show.
We appreciate the hard work of our volunteers and value the time that they committed to the production and
If you have any questions, please contact the Valley Performing Arts office at 907-373-0195.
written” under strict copyrighting laws. A producer may request to modify or eliminate parts of the play at the time the license is purchased – all this information is in the scripts of the Producer (VPA), Director, Stage Managers and Cast. VPA’s purchased licensing agreement was not disclosed to this Director, Cast or Crew. I was the Assistant Stage Manager. The above items were in my script and it was our understanding that we perform the play “as written”. However, VPA requested we modify some of the language several weeks into rehearsals.
and cast ready. The next day we were shut down. Why? I enjoy good theater (again, subjective). Being involved in it, I appreciate it more and have experienced it’s not always a “safe place”. It is there to entertain, but also provoke thought and solicit emotions from its audiences. People who attend theater, in general, love theater. They also have the choice to attend performances or not.
This is a copyright infringement, but a little softening of swearing didn’t seem to flag the Copyrighting Police. As rehearsals progressed and the play became alive, again VPA came to us with concerns (keep in mind, this play was approved and the cast vetted by VPA), this time regarding perceived subject matter and cast members. What was requested would have changed the entire premise of the storyline, not to mention copyright infringements. The Director declined the request. We were four days from opening with sets, lights, sound, props
We appreciate your understanding and the support that you give us show after show and year after year.
Why VPA cancelled a Board approved show at the last minute, gives one pause as to why and how it was chosen in the first place. We all love community theater and VPA has been the standard in The Valley for many years. It has served the community with quality productions but not all have been for general audiences. This play is for mature theater goers who enjoy the quirkiness of British humor. Not a British humor fan? You could become one, especially if Shakespeare is involved. Too bad you’ll miss it.
OPINION / POLITICS
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
called the cross-roads of the world for a reason. We can touch the Far East and Europe easily from our northern locations. Contributed by Eddie Ezelle As we come into the realization that we must do something different concerning the State budget, all of us will be required to help. We cannot keep doing the same thing over and over and expect different results. Sound familiar? Then so will “if you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.” Both are sage advice, but does not ease the pain we are and will continue to feel if we do not do something now.
Contributed by Vic Kohring Next month marks the 56th anniversary of my family’s arrival in Alaska. It was only four years after statehood and nine months before the Great Alaska Earthquake of 1964 when we crossed the border from Canada. As I reflect back, I feel incredibly blessed that my parents moved us to Alaska from a Chicago suburb in 1963. I consider my childhood near-perfect, even though we endured our share of hardship. My upbringing reminds me of the family depicted in the 1970s’ television show, The Walton’s, a wholesome, Christian-oriented program about an era long gone and relegated to American history when a strong family unit with conservative, Christian values was commonplace. The Walton’s family paralleled mine in many ways - a large, close-knit, church-going household, living very modestly, even off the land to a large extent and relying on each other and our neighbors. We lived in Chugiak at the time, along Birchwood Loop Road, when the area was newly developed and still considered rural while heating our small house with a coal-burning
First on the chopping block is any public service. There is a reason for this. You do not notice the reduction in paper pushers in an office, but you will notice a reduction in your police, fire and human services. Next is any public works that are instantly noticeable such as road repair or new construction. There seems to be a block in the longterm ideas of building infrastructure. Had we invested money in building power supplies, roads, bridges, ports and expanding our rail and ferry systems, we would be able to expand in the job creation market. We are
fireplace. Our water source for a time was a creek flowing from the Chugach Mountains. We had no phone service, except for a military crank phone connected with a few neighbors from wires strung through the woods. My siblings and I were raised mostly on salmon from nearby Peters Creek and Fire Creek, caribou meat from the Nelchina herd by Lake Louise, an occasional moose, vegetables from our large garden and from gleaming area farm fields and from buying other essentials in bulk quantity. Fresh, raw milk was delivered to us in gallon jars. Chickens, ducks, and geese were raised for butchering on our 2-1/2 acre spread. The Kohring’s, like the Walton’s, lived a simple, frugal lifestyle, but our clan of seven was happy and comfortable thanks to remarkable parents with an unwavering faith in God who instilled in us the virtues of hard work, humility, a giving heart, and respect toward others. Roughing it made no difference to me as a young man, as I knew no other way of life. It all seemed perfectly normal. So long as I was well fed, warm, safe, had a roof over my head, and the love of family, that’s all that mattered.
Contributed by Huhnkie Lee
WE, the Alaskans, are the last Americans.
A good ole friend of mine once told me,
Now… That was appetizer stuff. Now, the entree. Ok?
“You gotta pick a battle. Fight a good fight but pick and choose the one you can win.” That friend of mine told me, because he knew this thing about me: a quixotic one, a man who always defies. A maniac, a raving lunatic. A man, an unknown Alaskan backcountry man, who is running against the Almighty President Donald J. Trump, the Republican God that every American Christians are worshiping as if he, this fat obese man who never once exercises in his life, a fat cat man.
We, Americans, are fat. Obese. We can’t run. We can’t squat. What a shame. What happened to us, the U.S.? It’s like this. For the past couple of centuries, Europe and America, they led this industrial revolution. Alvin Toffler called it, the second wave. Technological ease. The western mechanization. Machines. They do all the work for us, humans. So, we sit. Idle.
The State has been very foolish in the spending of our money and we allow it.
entitlement. Everyone needs some help from time to time. That’s where we as nonprofits step in to help and we rely on others generosity to help us. It is not designed to be a life style of handouts, but rather a hand up. Many people seem to have forgotten this concept.
All programs must be evaluated for effectiveness, not just because “but we have always done it this way!” We need to cause more thinking out of the box rather than complacency. Sometimes being forced to look at things differently is a good thing.
We all need to help one another, but not to the point of straining our resources. When you talk with your representatives let’s have reasonable conversations and express our views without hatred. We are all in this together and we can’t do it alone.
The idea that the State will take care of it should be rejected by every tax-paying Alaskan. I don’t pay taxes you say - think again. We all pay for those “freebies” some think is their
Please support where you can, but do not expect the State to come bail you out every time.
We may have been poor in terms of money, but were rich with devotion to each other.
and every one from their individual perspectives.
Sadly, the traditional family unit and building block of society, has waned, serious philosophical differences are common among siblings and church attendance has dropped. I have a good life today and remain close to family but still, long for the days of old and America and Alaska as it used to be. And I long for my formative and pre-adulthood years while growing up in an era that’s much different than today. The time of my youth are memories I’ll always cherish. I didn’t know it then, but they were the best days of my life. One Walton’s episode in particular and my favorite, “The Sermon,” initially aired on September 11, 1975. I remember watching it that evening at home on our little black and white TV. The plot involves John Walton, Jr., or “John Boy,” preaching on a Sunday, in place of the town’s pastor who had just married and was on his honeymoon. John Boy was understandably apprehensive as he never spoke before a large group, let alone lead a church service. But after a week of preparation and reflection, he chose the topic of his family and delivered a wonderfully expressed, highly emotional masterpiece about what God meant to each
you, America... Well, I voted for him too. I even prayed for him. Back in 2016. I even almost cried when he got elected. He’s not too bad. Ok? He’s just too old. He can’t lead the nation like I can. That’s why I’m running for president in 2020. Back in the days in earth history, or even nowadays. Wild animals. The food is scarce out there in the wild. That’s why no animals are obese. Even wild pigs, the hogs, they are very lean. Because they always run. You Americans, what, you take your dogs outside, for a dog walk? Huh? You let your dogs do all the exercise for you. What a shame.
So. Republicans... That’s your God, right? You bow down to President Trump, correct? Because what? Because President Trump pretends to be a Christian? Because he what, pretends to oppose abortion, right? You Christians, you conservatives, you Republicans. Shame on you. I think you are as stupid as Democrats. There, I said it.
We sit at home. We sit in our cars. We sit in our offices. The only time we walk? Between our houses and cars, between our cars and offices. Otherwise, we sit.
You Alaskans. You ride what, snow machines? Yachts? Jets? Hmm… You never run. You let your pets and machines run for you. Hmm? What a shame.
Then there was this agricultural revolution. We got a lot of food. No more world hunger. Everyone gets fed with dirt cheap sugar and fat.
See, I always fight a battle that I can’t possibly win – and that’s what I love about America. The Constitution. The freedom. The liberty. The first Amendment. The freedom of speech, thought, ideas, politics and religion. Ladies and gentlemen, we are Americans. And here, we are Alaskans too. We are the cream of the crop, ladies and gentlemen.
Bottom line? We move less, we eat more. We get fat. Obese.
If you are a man, why do you have to look like a pregnant woman? Hmm? You know what I’m talking about. You’ve got a pot belly. Just like your God, the President Trump, who said,
What’s the nation’s president doing? He’s eating pizza. Two scoops of ice cream. That’s your conservative hero, your Republican idol, your Christian God, Mr. Donald J. Trump. Ok? Shame on
PAGE 8
“Oh. Exercise. What a waste of time. I’d rather make another dollar. I’d rather chase that skirt, rather.” Huh? That’s your God, your socalled conservative hero, alas – sad, disappointing. I’m sad. And you’re gonna vote for him again? Hmm? When I’m running against him in
Thanks for reading!
I watched The Sermon again on DVD a few days ago, and even after four decades, it still brings tears to my eyes. I’m reminded of my second year in the Legislature when I spoke in front of a church congregation at Gospel Outreach Christian Center in Wasilla. Pastor Mark Campbell asked that I make a presentation in honor of one of his members. As with John Boy Walton, I was nervous about what to say as I stood behind the pulpit in front of a large crowd with all eyes trained on me. But with God’s help, my words flowed well. It was no masterpiece, but a fine presentation. The Walton’s episode concludes with the singing of Amazing Grace, a treasured favorite, with a stunning video backdrop of a Virginia forest and sun rays breaking through the trees. It’s the most heart-rendering scene I’ve ever witnessed on television, causing my eyes to well with tears every time. But it also fills my heart with warmth, and I’m left with a greater appreciation of my Judeo-Christian faith and the quality life my father and mother generously and selflessly provided me so long ago. Vic Kohring is a former legislator and resident of Wasilla.
2020, you’re gonna vote for him? Hmm? It’s up to you. I’ll respect your vote, no matter what. I’ll respect your right, your freedom, your error, your stupidity, your cowardice, your pusillanimousness, whatever. So yeah. Back to science. No politics or religion or morality or ethics. Just science, biology. Ok? Animals and plants, out there in the wild, the food is scarce. So, they eat something, and their guts, intestines, they absorb all the calories they can. Energy comes in to an animal, energy does not go out. No matter how fat you are, your large intestine will always absorb all the energy it can. Your gut will never say to you, “Oh, I’m fat. I’ve got enough energy in my body. So, I refuse to intake any more energy. I’ll poo and pee out this extra energy I don’t need. Bye.” That’s not how our body works. Out there in the wild nature, food is scarce. So, animals and plants have evolved for millions of years to store any extra energy that comes in. As a rainy-day fund, so to speak. Now, we Homo Sapiens, our ancestors developed machines. So, we move less, we eat more. We get obese. We stink. We can’t move around, because we are too heavy. When we fall, we can’t get up. We break bones, because we are too heavy. Exercise, Diet. Peace.
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
OPINION / POLITICS
PAGE 9
difficult to justify his expulsion from the courtroom and classroom. They understood the best possible human government can only be conducted by citizen’s with religious standards. Contributed by Wes Keller Regardless of what you think, you have a worldview – everyone does. Worldview is defined as: The unique, particular, philosophy of life or conception of the world, developed in each person as a product of increasing knowledge and experience, to include your values and religion. Traditional wisdom is usually valid advice! Almost always, politics seems irrational unless you can trace who benefits from the spending of public dollars! “Follow the Money...” if you want to understand the why behind what legislation passes and which doesn’t. Perverted obsession for money is right up there with sex and power! Do not, however, presume you can understand politics and judge politicians using ONLY this litmus! It is far more productive and fundamental to monitor a public figure’s worldview.
can lie to hide their real beliefs, but in “small town” Alaska, claims are subject to scrutiny of the statewide gossipmill. Then, all governing decisions and debates are carefully recorded for anyone to see – so researching for confirmation of claimed values is very doable! A Politician’s worldview is proclaimed by actions, so ideally, their votes become validations of their claims (or not...). A better mantra is “follow the worldview”. I’m convinced we tend to not do due diligence following the worldviews of public servants. For one thing, it is culturally discouraged, at least it is in the culture of those immersed in the ivory towers of so-called “secular” government. Too many self-righteously believe we should not judge anyone’s values. It is automatically presumed arrogant and intolerant to be adamant about what is right or wrong (“truth” be damned!).
By definition, politicians expect to be transparent about their philosophies, yet it seems little attention is paid – until we later judge them using mediafiltered information.
Right now, our Nation is choosing to pretend the meaning of “freedom of religion” is to honor any whacky value able to get highlighted by the media. Freedom of religion is actually an allimportant ban on secular government establishment of religion, it most certainly is not an excuse to obscure values including moral absolutes!
In order to be elected, each politician explains his or her values, posting their biographies, intentionally inviting evaluation and support. Of course, they
The current cultural aversion to moral conviction is a very real threat to America! George Washington (and other founders) make my point far
better than I could; “Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.” (recorded by Noah Webster, 1806). Prosperity, peace, security, health, freedom and happiness are all a result of application of values; and, easily identifiable in the text of the Declaration of Independence, early State constitutions, Federalist Papers, Bill of Rights, and the US Constitution. These philosophical/ religious ideals are the core of our esteemed rule of law based on “Nature’s Law”! Without a standard, governing decisions are as variable as the number of attorneys (or attorney wannabes) in the room! Governing values go adrift when we fail to endorse the standard in the minds of our children. If it only takes one generation to discredit and ignore the “rules of the game”; then we will always be one generation away from tyranny.
This celebration begins June 1st and ends June 10th. There will be a huge sale all 10 days of the event. The first ten customers through the doors, during each morning of the event, will receive a free gift. We will be giving away 25,000 Alaska Airlines Miles and a Rust’s Flightseeing Tour for two. On June 8th & 9th, there will be a free family carnival at the Wasilla location with a bouncy castle and rock wall for the kids. We will also have an array of food truck vendors
for you to enjoy. Come on by, bring your family and friends, and join us in celebrating this exciting achievement! All Seasons is celebrating YOU, our customers! We would not be here if it weren’t for your ongoing loyalty. This is our way of saying thank you for all your support and continuing to shop locally. Established in 2009, All Seasons Clothing Company is a locally owned and operated fine clothing retailer offering a wide selection of outerwear and everyday wear for the entire family from all of the brands that work and play as hard as you do! With tried and true brands such as Carhartt, Redwing, Columbia, Danner, The North Face, Arc’teryx, XtraTuf,
If atheism (Secular Humanism) is the majority perspective, our constitution becomes meaningless and there is no virtue in judging a politician’s worldview! I have never seen a politician openly pretend to be an atheist... only the opposite. Clearly the masses prefer traditional values – or most politicians think we do. The second reason we shrink from judging others is more personal and individual... a “catch 22” situation. It turns out none of us can rely on having an infallible internal “moral compass” to make judgements on others’ values! Any honest adult will admit to using the word “should” when judging behavior.
American laws still confirm the evil nature of killing, lying, cheating, stealing, abuse of the weak, and it is majority consensus that provides the authority for enforcing our “rule of law”.
We are prone to impose our values and experience on others “for their own good” – while at the same time not living up to our “should standard” ourselves. We tend to approve (or excuse) ourselves while feeling superior or critical of others.
The founders also believed in a God who establishes what is right and wrong; referring to him as “Nature’s God”, “Supreme Judge”, and refers to his control (“Divine Providence”). It is
If we are thoughtfully humble at all, this causes us to be hesitant about declaring other worldviews as “wrong”, politicians or not. WesKeller.com
COMMUNITY / EVENTS All Seasons Clothing Company would like to invite you to come and celebrate our 10 year milestone of providing the Mat-Su Valley with the brands that work and play as hard as you do!
Our nation is designed to be run by people who embrace our national motto (In God We Trust). It is left up to voters to decide who this may be, so as goes the faith of the citizens, so goes government.
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
Patagonia, Skhoop, Keen, Outdoor Research, Oboz, Timberland Pro, Hydro Flask and much more, with most in extended sizes, we’re sure to have what you’re looking for. We’ve also recently expanded our inventory to include 5.11 Tactical, LifeStraw, Grangers and Ariat. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service. We provide all employees with extensive training on the brands we sell ensuring that our staff is knowledgeable and upto-date with current trends in order to help you make that perfect purchase. All Seasons Clothing Company has two storefront locations, one in Wasilla at 1400 Wasilla Shops Cir. #1 (behind Burger King) and the other in Eagle
PAGE 9
River at 11925 Old Glenn Hwy #101 (next to the Matanuska Brewing Company). We also have a webstore at www.AllSeasonsClothingCompany. com which we ship nationwide for $10 and under! So come by June 1st – 10th, share with your family and friends, enter to win prizes and don’t miss out on all the awesome, amazing deals during this event. Help us make this 10 year milestone one to remember. We look forward to continuing to serve YOU and our local community for many more years to come.
PETS / ANIMALS Angie Lewis, President of Alaska Animal Advocates Dog fighting is a horrible act of animal cruelty – supported by the individuals actually fighting the dogs and those observing. This is a form of “entertainment” in which dogs are forced to fight one another for the profit of owners and spectators. Despite being illegal in all 50 states, dog fighting is prevalent throughout the country and, in fact, the world. It is hard to understand why anyone would get involved in dog fighting, but common reasons are greed – there can be a great deal of money to be made from just a single fight – as much as $20,000 to $30,000. More money is made through stud fees and the sale of puppies, particularly from good bloodlines. Some people see
the dogs as an extension of their own abilities and strengths. Often, these dogs are seen as a status symbol. Worst of all, there are those people who take pleasure in the brutality and bloodshed of another being. Many different breeds of dogs are used for fighting, but the American Pit Bull Terrier is the dog of choice. Other breeds of dogs are used as “bait” dogs, as are other animals. The life of a fighting dog is a horrible existence. These dogs are isolated from other dogs and most humans, spending their lives on chains. They are often given legal and illegal drugs that enhance their physical strength and muscles. The dogs are tormented physically and emotionally to increase their aggression. Fighting dogs often have their ears and tails
home and routine as she will likely hide until she feels comfortable.
Contributed by Sue Fujimoto We’d like you to meet Phantom! Phantom is a sweet girl who is still learning how to be an inside dog and adjust to being around people and strange things. We first met Phantom when she was brought to the shelter after running loose for quite some time. She was trapped and did bite the leash handler at the time she was caught. At the shelter, she was fearful and would initially cower in the corner of her kennel, and had difficulty walking on a leash. Since that time, she has improved greatly and become a more curious and engaging dog, and is happy to see people she recognizes come to her kennel to take her out. She does still revert to fearful behavior when she is taken to an unfamiliar location or around people she does not know. If adopted, she will need adequate time to adjust to her new
Phantom cannot be let off leash as she will run and not come back, and will be difficult to catch or trap again. She does not have any recall and will require a securely fenced yard for exercise. As with any fearful dog, moving too fast or challenging the dog when they are afraid may lead to biting, so caution is paramount with Phantom. Phantom will require continued training and socialization to become a confident dog, and an owner with the patience and ability to understand her behavior. Phantom has expressed a desire to be near other dogs and has started to become playful, especially around dogs that are her size or a little smaller. Loud or large rowdy dogs tend to scare her, but she may enjoy the company of another well-mannered dog in her future home. With her spookiness in strange places and desire to run or hide, a quiet home with adults or older children would be best. Phantom is a special girl who needs a special home, and so we are offering her as a special adoption, by appointment only. The shelter will take appointments for 1 week and make their decision based on which adopters will provide the best home for Phantom. Please call 746-5500 to set up an appointment.
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
PAGE 10
cropped so that they look fierce. These procedures are often not done by veterinarians or with the use of anesthesia. The fight is a terrifying experience that can last a few minutes to many hours. Typically, both dogs are injured, suffering from broken bones, blood loss, and puncture wounds. What is not visible, is the psychological and emotional devastation that results. Sometimes the fight results in the death of at least one of the dogs. If the dogs who lose the fight survive, they are either discarded, left to suffer from their injuries without medical care, or executed because they are perceived as a failure or embarrassment to the owner. Dog fighting must be stopped! Sign petitions, donate to rescue groups that are advocates for dogs, and share
Contributed by Angie Lewis Yukon loves rides in the car, playing, being pet, and sleeping in bed with his people. He does not like being on leash, coming when called, and not much interested in learning tricks. Just a bit over a year old, this Husky Mix has shown a great deal of
Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann Sputnik is a pretty special boy. He’s a SHOULDER kitty! That’s right! He’s a big, lanky boy that wants to snuggle you and perch on your shoulder! When he first came into foster, he was not doing well due to food
FB efforts to stop dog fighting. Be the voice for these poor, abused dogs. Above all, do not assume that Pit Bull dogs are not good family dogs, because they are. They were traditionally seen as just that – wonderful dogs to have around children and a loving family. It is the people who have demonized Pit Bulls by destroying their reputation while using them as fighting dogs. The Pit Bulls are in fact the victims here.
progress since he was rescued from a musher’s lot. Clearly, he knows what he likes and what he doesn’t! Yukon is incredible with children. His foster home has a baby and he is ever so gentle with the little girl, even when she is taking a toy out of his mouth! With a little training Yukon can become an awesome part of your family. Give him a chance! Call Angie at Alaska Animal Advocates – 841-3173 or email us at akaarescue@hotmail.com
allergies. After a little trial and error, we’ve found some safe foods and he’s now thriving! He will likely always need his people to be careful about what they feed him. He’s worth the effort in so many ways! He’s working on harness training and is pretty good about it. Sputnik likes other cats, tolerates nice dogs, and would probably do well with nice kids. This sweet boy is looking for a family to make him the center of their universe. He’s vaccinated, chipped and one amazing boy! In Wasilla. Call 980-8898
COMMUNITY / EVENTS A little brown bat can consume between 600 to 1,000 mosquitos in a single hour. A nursing little brown bat may consume as many as 4,500 mosquitos in a night, more than her own body weigh in insects. Each year they have one offspring, called a pup. Bats are the only mammals that can fly.
Contributed by Dana Hills On May 3, 2019, the fourth and fifth grade class of Willow Elementary School and their teacher, Skip Davenport, as well as some homeschoolers had the opportunity to spend the day in the park learning about bats, and in particular, the little brown bat. The students built and brought ten bat boxes that will be scattered about the park to encourage the little brown bat to nest within the boxes. Each bat box can hold up to 100 bats. The little brown bat is a species of mouse-eared bat that is found in North America. It is the only species of bat found in the MatanuskaSusitna Valley. They are brown in color and measure 5-7 inches long with a wing span of 9-11 inches. Their diet consists of mosquitos, spiders and moths. They use echolocation to find food sources.
Contributed by Lyn Carden Join us for our annual summer block party on June 1st, 2019! The event will once again be held at the Wasilla City Museum & Historical Townsite from 11am-5pm. Chad Carpenter, creator of Tundra Comics, Moose the Movie and Sudsy Slim Rides Again will be joining us inside the historical barn. The Grape Tap, Crazy Moose and The Awakening Coffee Shop will once again have delicious delectable treats for you to buy, as well as
While the little brown bat in Alaska is not endangered. It is endangered in the lower 48 and Canada, largely due to white nose syndrome. Discovered in 2006 in caves in which bats live and hibernate, white nose syndrome has killed millions of bats. The condition is named for a distinctive fungal growth around the face, ears, wings and feet of hibernating bats. When affected, the bats come out of hibernation, they are severely malnourished and susceptible to starving to death before the insects they feed on emerge in the spring. We welcome the little brown bat to Newman Memorial Park. The day was packed with fun-filled activities. Jesika Reimer, Zoologist at the Alaska Center for Conservation Science, located at UAA provided some awesome and engaging information about bats, specifically the little brown bat.
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
PAGE 11
to ensure safety from predators such as squirrels. Vic Stanculescu, Naturalist, from Alaska State Parks, took the students on a hike through the park to explore and observe the park environment, identify habitats within the park and possible locations for the bat boxes. Tina Owen, Marine Biologist and Naturalist, whose specialty is the Willow area, had many hands-on specimens of various animal species common to Willow. She talked to the students about the animals they could find in or visit their backyard. Maxine Franklin, Alaska Native Naturalist, hiked with the students with the goal of increasing their focus on nature. They brought back specimens to the pavilion and made drawings of them. The students were able to identify good locations for bat box placement that met the bat criteria for a good habitat. Newman Memorial Park is located in Willow, Alaska on Willow Creek Parkway. It is home to the only fenced wilderness dog park in America. The park also features a large covered pavilion overlooking a small lake, ideal for family reunions, weddings and school field trips. For more information on the park visit the Willow Area Community Organization website.
She provided hands-on opportunities for students to learn about bats and the importance of bat boxes and choosing proper sites for bat box location. She explained the importance of bat box design and the criteria necessary in choosing a site for bat box location
several food trucks will be on site to provide you with tasty local flair. Boundary Street will be closed to car traffic so that we can maximize food trucks and vendors for you to come and visit. Public parking is available in the city lot and Wasilla City Hall. Inside the historical townsite there will also be children’s games, informational booths and more food choices! We have created a passport to help you find and visit each vendor. Once you check off each vendor on your passport, you can
Contributed by Patti Fisher Meadow Lakes 25th Annual Week-long Spring Clean-Up begins on Monday May 13th. Trash bags can be pickup at R&R Laundry and R&R U-Haul in Meadow Lakes. Drop the filled bags at Fire Station 71 on Pittman Rd., Monday, May 13, through Friday, May 17th from 6PM to 8PM, and Saturday the 18th from 10AM to 6PM. Then Celebrate with us on Sunday, May 19th, at the Meadow Lakes Sports Field from 1PM to 4PM. Be sure to bring your favorite Pot-Luck Dish to share with your neighbors and a chair to sit on. It is a party – there will be hamburgers and hot dogs, prizes for the most trash collected, music and games for the kids.
enter to win an amazing prize! So, come taste and shop local with local businesses as we welcome and celebrate summer in Wasilla!
To get to the sports field, take Karen Dr. off of Pittman and follow the signs. For additional information, please check our Facebook Page at Meadow Lakes Annual Spring Cleanup or call 232-2845.
COMMUNITY / EVENTS
Contributed by Sue Wallin Mark your calendar for the last Saturday in May. Come to the Boys and Girls Club of Mat-Su, located at 3700 East Bogard Road, just east of Seward Meridian intersection. The sale is open to the public from 9am to 3pm. Loyal customers begin amassing at 8am. Search for annuals inside the double garage doors. From artichokes to zucchini, we have veggie starts and herbs galore, for gourmet cooking and canning. The east wall is generally FULL of healthy tomato plants of all sizes and varieties. Look for interesting houseplants along the west wall.
Forty tables of annual flowers fill up the interior. We do try to post labels and volunteer members will help you locate plants you seek. Step outside to the south patio for a gorgeous view and hundreds of hardy perennial plants that grow well in our climate. Members share plants from their own gardens. Trees, shrubs, berries, roots… plants large and small, with helpful growers standing by to answer your questions. We also have a gently used tool section that has become a very popular feature at this event. Several members offer garden art for sale.
MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA
Once again, the generous neighboring properties have opened their parking lots to us. If you are able to walk a couple hundred yards, please do; as many of our customers cannot. Kindly respect the reserved spaces near the building for those in need. We ask that you DO NOT park along Bogard Road due to the heavy traffic. It is quite dangerous crossing this road heavily laden with plants. Please bring your own cart or wagon as we have very few. Personalize your cart with ribbons, paint, survey tape or your distinctive signature style duct tape job. Once again, there will be a holding
PAGE 12
zone for paid plants at the east edge of the parking lot. You can check in your order, go fetch your vehicle and do a drive by to pick up your plants. Traffic is one way: IN from the west drive, OUT at the east drive. Many thanks to Alaska State Fair, Boys and Girls Club, Alaska Water Conditioning, Turn A Leaf Thrift Store, and our many dedicated Valley Garden Club volunteers and growers for helping pull this together. Thank you to our loyal customers who buy healthy plants grown in the valley for the valley! Your continued support is sincerely appreciated.
Contributed by Lhing Mcneal Kabayan Inc. Filipino-American Community of Matsu will be hosting this event for the very first time as part of our Health & Wellness Program in partnership with Matsu Health Foundation. This is a FREE Community Zumba class, and this is a great activity for any participant of any athletic ability to be able to enjoy and dance to the Latin music outdoors. A perfect way to exercise and have fun with the whole family. Come party and dance into shape, tone your muscle and improve your overall health. We will meet at the Wonderland Park lawn area every Saturday at 3 pm for the whole month of June & July. This event will be conducted by Alaska Challenge Fitness Certified Zumba Instructors, these ladies will inspire you to get out of your comfort zone and will teach you to dance like nobody is watching. So, get ready with your workout gear and join us bring your energy and we will see you in the park! July 27 at 11 am is “End of the Season Party” we will have food, music and raffle. Earn a ticket every time you attend a class and win amazing prizes. Don’t forget to bring water and towel. If you want to know more about us and would like an update, please ‘LIKE” us www.facebook.com/filipinoamericancommunityofmatsu or visit our website kabayaninc.com. A big thank you to our sponsors: The Alaska Club, Emilie Cullison Re/Max Frontier, The People’s Paper, Make A Scene Magazine and Q99.7 Valley Radio.