Make A Scene Magazine May 2014

MAGAZINE

SEE PAGE 13

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PAGE 5

Go to www.ideafamilies.org to learn more and enroll or call your local IDEA Office at 357-4850

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Where will the adventure take you?

A few of the benefits of joining IDEA * Support for parents’ choice in curriculum * Computer, printer and free tech support by certified techs * Student allotments for school supplies and lessons * Local office with friendly staff, library, and resource room

May 2014

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The ONLY program homeschool with its in the nation pter! own FFA cha

Community would be willing to invest more in the 8-week concert series. She told me to submit a proposal outlining my plans for the budget, and she felt confident that it would be approved.

Proposal submitted, another City official told me to go ahead. She told me she would draw up a contract reflecting the proposal, and would have it to me shortly.

Young, naive, full of enthusiasm and a willingness to work, I moved forward.

I spent several weeks communicating with potential sponsors, including the Frontiersman newspaper.

One phone call, and everything came to a halt! Someone from the Frontiersman called me to let me know that the City of Wasilla was placing an advertisement with them, putting the concert series up for bid! I was flummoxed.

I called the City official, and she pretended that she had no idea what I was talking about. My heart sank. I was learning something about politics, something that is a stereotype, so I should have known all along.

Another local company won the bid, by bidding unbelievably low. Then, later, that same company went back and told the City that they had bid too low, and the City gave them more money! Wow! I learned something else about politics - it’s who you know!

At the time I was bitter. I can’t tell you the emotions that surged through me. I had worked so hard building my sandcastle, and the next day it was just… gone.

I retell this story now, not out of

in print bitterness, but to remember the events that shaped my path. There have been many experiences, seemingly negative, since then. I have learned that negative things in life are like the ebb and flow of the ocean. That sandcastle is gone, but a new one can be built - a better one.

Broken, both emotionally and financially, I decided things couldn’t get much worse. In the back of my mind, another sandcastle was forming, waiting to be built. This one further from the shore, so more work would be required - wet sand is heavy. But it would last longer. I wanted to start a magazine that would promote myself and my fellow musicians. Make A Scene would once again start again!

The first edition was so sweet in my hands. It’s when I started to realize that my artistic expression was outgrowing my chosen medium of music, and was expanding into every aspect of my life! 8 pages, 3000 copies, that first edition fit in the backseat of my car. Easily.

Now, with the pages having grown by 700% since that first edition, and 333% in circulation; Make A Scene is an anomaly in the print industry. We’ve consistently grown, with the help of our community members, with content that fills the ever-growing pages of our interactive periodical.

Quickly I realized that other artists, from other disciplines, took notice.

More and more, content submissions increased, and with lots of work (and tons of rejection!), advertisers increased. Slowly at first, but now exponentially! Thanks to the

CONTINUES ON PAGE 11

PAGE 8 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR >>

Teen Wilderness Safety Challenge Sat., May 17th - 10:00 am-2:30 pm Matanuska Experiment Farm 1509 S. Georgeson Drive Palmer, AK naoiak.org 907-376-2898

2014 Freedom Fair & Convention Saturday, May 24th 9:30 AM and ending at 3:30 PM AKDT. Family friendly event to celebrate our freedom and liberty!

Adele Morgan will be entertaining the crowds as well.

Thur, May 22- Sun May 26 Thurs - Sat, 9am-9pm Sun 9am-6pm Palmer Train Depot 601 S Valley Way Palmer AK Consign49- Jaclyn Wirtanen 907-715-8580

Great Alaska Swap Meet Saturday, May 31 10:00a to 6:00p Curtis Menard Memorial Sports Center Reserve your own space now for $20.

Call 907.357.9100 for more details

Grand Opening/Open House All About Dance Studio Sat, May 31 - 12pm-6pm 10927 W Big Lake Road free - 907-715-9174 www.allaboutdanceak.com WASILLA LIBRARY BUILDING COMMITTEE MEETING Wed, May 28 - 4:30pm-6:30pm Wasilla City Hall Council Chambers 290 East Herning Avenue, Wasilla Free - 907-376-5913

The Key to Growing Peonies Mon, May 19 - Noon - 1:30 pm Evangelo’s Restaurant 2530 E. Parks Hwy, Wasilla $16 includes lunch Mat-Su Women’s Connection affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries 907-892-8482 Consign49 Spring 2014 She Sale Consignment Event

May 2014

EVERLAST LIVE AT CHILKOOTS Friday May 23 - 9 pm Chilkoot Charlie’s 2435 Spenard Road, Anchorage $25 in advance, $30 at the door 907-279-1692

ALASKA THEATRE OF YOUTH: GLEE CAMP May 27 - 31 / Tue – Fri (Ages 8-18) UAA Fine Arts Bldg 9AM-4PM & Sat from 10AM-4PM Glee Camp Tuition is $250 Alaska Theatre of Youth 907-338-4901 and admin@ alaskatheatreofyouth.org

Denali Cooks Music At Eagle Hotel in Palmer Palmer - June 7 Starts at 9pm $5 at the door Wasilla Area Senior Center May Potluck with Live Music by Paul Holmberg & great door prizes.

Friday, May 25, 2014 6 – 8 pm 1301 S. Century Circle Wasilla Seniors (60+) who bring a food dish to share - $5/person Seniors who choose not to bring a food dish - $10/person Adults - $10/person

ALASKA MEDICINAL AND EDIBLE PLANT PRESENTATION Friday, May 30th - 5:30-7:00 pm $15.00- 907-775-2466 naoiak.org

CALENDAR CONTINUES ON PAGE 15

Blast from the Past, Toys tractors & trains Sat, May 31st & Sun, June 1st 10am-5pm Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry Mile 47 Parks Hwy. 3800 W Museum Drive 907-376-1211

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Make-A-Scene publishes 10,000 copies monthly. We distribute to Wasilla, Palmer, Meadow Lakes, Big Lake, Eagle River & Anchorage.

We’re always growing thanks to our contributors, our advertisers, and to you the reader!

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

Submitting Articles & Calendar:

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

Submissions are not accepted via Facebook.

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

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

PAGE 9

MAKE A SCENE

May 2014

PAGE 10

Music Submitted By Sarah Pederson, Family Tree Presents

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Working under the apt nameplate The White Buffalo, singer/songwriter Jake Smith has resolutely charted his own single-minded course for more than a decade.

An imposing figure with a voice to match, a resonant, roughhewn baritone, Smith writes about rebels, outsiders and troubled souls battling their way through the obstacles life throws in their paths, telling timeless tales generally set against recognizably contemporary backdrops. “I skirt the line between good and evil in a lot of my songs,” Smith points out.

WHITE BUFFALO

The hard-bitten themes and performances that have defined his career led the producers of Sons of Anarchy to grab six of Smith’s songs for use under scenes in the similarly edgy series, while The White Buffalo’s “American Dream,” written specifically for the 2013 feature film The Lone Ranger: Wanted, appears on the soundtrack album alongside contributions from fellow iconoclasts Lucinda Williams, Dave Alvin, Iggy Pop, Ben Kweller, The Aggrolites, Shane MacGowan of The Pogues and Iron & Wine.

Born in Oregon and raised in Huntington Beach, California, Smith spent his childhood years listening to the country music his parents loved. As a teenager, he naturally gravitated to the aggressive sounds emanating from that punk-rock mecca before getting turned on to Bob Dylan and John Prine and picking up a guitar for the first time at age 19, whereupon he immediately began to write his own songs. Saturday 6/14/2014 – 6:00 PM – 21+ Show Join us outside at Humpy’s for The White Buffalo plus local openers TBA

May 2014

Humpy’s Great Alaskan Ale House 610 W. Sixth Avenue Anchorage, AK 99501

> Tickets are $30 advance and $40 at the door. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 25 at Mammoth Music and online at www.groovetickets.com www.familytreepresents.com www.thewhitebuffalo.com

All of these elements helped shape, and continue to coexist, in his music—the storytelling impulse of classic country, the aggressiveness of punk, the visionary singularity of the definitive singer/songwriters. As The White Buffalo, he stands as a true original, presenting his singular vision with conviction and immediacy, and leaving an ever-bigger footprint on the American roots-music landscape.

PAGE 11

MAKE A SCENE

7

Community unpleasant circumstances that had shaped my path, I could handle the feeling of rejection.

forget sitting in a meeting with my landlord, who couldn’t give me one example of why he wanted us out. I questioned him: “How have we violated our lease?”

No response.

I told him that I could take him to court, that he was wrong! Now he responded:

My libertarian leanings (philosophically, not the political party) were the root of my motive force. The powers-that-be would not stop me! I was an individual, with rights and responsibilities! I could make it work, and with enough help, I could make a scene!

“Do you have the financial resources to fight me in court?”

One more little story of what seemed like failure. Make A Scene opened our office in the Meta Rose Square, downtown Wasilla. Not only did it serve as an office, but we also had several music teachers, the occasional art class, musical performances, and more. It was truly a multipurpose facility. It was beautiful.

We left the Meta Rose, and moved into the only place I could find that we could afford, with lots of negotiation. The trauma was beyond financial this time, beyond emotional.

I didn’t know at the time, but my wife was pregnant. She didn’t know either. According to the doctor, emotional stress of the situation and physical stress of moving all of office and venue, including heavy equipment, was likely to blame for the miscarriage.

Our new venue lasted about six months. During that time, The City of Wasilla purchased the Meta Rose Square, amidst a storm of questions from the public. I didn’t care.

The financial disaster for my family was so bad, I was ashamed to wake up. I was a failure. Our electricity was turned off. We flushed our toilets with water we hauled from a pond down the street from our house.

Foreclosure notices, disconnection notices, and a depression that can’t be measured. Still, Make A Scene went to print.

Again, I don’t write this out of bitterness, but from a sense of triumph. These are the things that shaped Make A Scene, and now The People’s Paper. These are the sacrifices that were made by one family, so that this community could commune and communicate with itself. I believe it was worth it. To believe otherwise would destroy me.

A life with purpose is a life with pain.

Eventually, the spirit of Make A Scene started to attract political writers, poets, all sorts of content from all sorts of people. This inspired me; my hope was renewed. It’s all art.

As these submissions have increased over the last seven years, content covering so many topics outside of ‘the arts’, I’ve realized that something had to happen - some change must be made to accommodate this growth. Make A Scene, as a brand, is established, and primarily reminds readers of arts and events. This is the foundation of the publication. But this new content seemed to deal with ideas and ideals. It’s for this reason that ‘The People’s Paper’ was created.

This new sandcastle is being built, with the help of this community, to create a space complimentary to Make A Scene. A place where our winning model can continue to grow, and affect change in our community.

Resistance is growth. Bad things happen to good people, and vice versa. This is catalyst for realization!

Passion will drive the future.

Those who care enough to express themselves will lead the way. I invite you all to be part of this, as we enter our eighth year of publication.

> Make A Scene.

May 2014

Then, a nasty neighbor took it upon themselves to have us pushed out of the building. She waged a campaign of misinformation with our building manager and landlord. I will never

He was right about that, I didn’t have the resources, and he had lots of resources. Something wasn’t right about the whole thing. Something was very wrong.

The pain, the anger, the shame. I am still moved to tears, even after all these years. The loss of our venue, our office, where we had spent two years, was nothing compared to the physical and emotional trauma that my wife and I went through. I will never forget that pain.

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

I was laughed at, mocked, and worse - didn’t I know that print was dead?! Again, I was young, and just naive enough to believe that with the right attitude, I could defy the odds.

Sometimes youthful ignorance is the catalyst for change. It’s what you don’t know!

7 years in print continued

PAGE 12

Museums

SMITHSONIAN

in palmer

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Submitted by Selena Ortega-Chiolero

The sun is shining and the days are getting warmer as we head into the summer season months in the valley.

To help everyone get up and out to enjoy the summer sunshine in Alaska, the Palmer Museum has a fun and exciting summer schedule planned.

First, the museum is proud to announce the arrival of the Smithsonian Institute’s Museums on Main Street exhibit Key Ingredients: America By Food, an exhibit describing the history of food culture in the United States.

Museums on Main Street is a one-ofa-kind cultural project that has been sharing the Smithsonian’s resources with rural America since 1994. It is a partnership of the Smithsonian and individual state humanities councils that serve small-town and cultural institutions and residents of rural America.

May 2014

One-fifth of all Americans live in rural areas and one-half of all U.S. museums are located in small towns. Museums on Main Street seeks to provide these institutions with access to resources they may not otherwise have and to assist them in making lasting improvements to advance their institution’s objectives.

It combines the prestige of Smithsonian exhibitions, the program expertise of state humanities councils and the remarkable volunteerism and unique histories of small rural towns.

The Palmer Museum is one of four museums within the state of Alaska to have the opportunity to host this insightful exhibit. It is touring in Alaska thanks to the efforts of the Alaska Humanities Forum and will on display beginning June 1st and departing on July 20th. While the exhibit is in Palmer, the museum has a few exciting events planned: Friday, June 5th, 12-3PM Old Fashion Ice Cream Demonstration during Colony Days Saturday, June 6th, 4:30PM Palmer City Wide Pie Bake-off during Colony Days Friday, June 13th, 10AM-4PM Blacksmith Demonstrations with Vince Bergkampf Friday, June 20th, 12-4PM Gardening and Cultivating with Peggy Hunt Saturday, July 5th, 8PM Picnic and Movie on the Museum Lawn Saturday, July 12th, 10AM-8PM Palmer Midsummer Garden & Art Faire

> Be sure to check our museum website at www.palmermuseum.org for further details on the events associated with this exhibit. We look forward to celebrating American food culture with you this summer at the Palmer Museum!

PAGE 13

Entertainment

by Carmen Summerfield

A team of skilled foundry men and women, consisting of Pat Garley, who owns Arctic Fires Bronze in Palmer, D’jean Jawrunner, a college professor from New Mexico who teaches metal casting, Donnie Keen a commercial foundry owner from Houston, Texas, and other local sculptors and skilled metal workers will demonstrate the fascinating 5000 year old iron casting process using a custom designed furnace known as a cupola.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 35

x

Art on Fire Iron Pour Art Fest

June 21 7th Iron Pour Art Fest at

the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry in Wasilla!

May 2014

In the weeks preceding this event, Pat Garley will be conducting workshops at his studio in Palmer, teaching artists about metal casting and mold making. At the VAA Art on Fire Iron Pour Art Fest, the molds completed at Pat’s workshops will be filled with liquid iron, creating amazing cast iron sculptures.

On Fire 7

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Is the number 7 your lucky number?

Well, it is for the Valley Arts Alliance Art on Fire Iron Pour Art Fest, because on Saturday, June 21 we celebrate our 7th Iron Pour Art Fest at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry in Wasilla!

The Valley will be buzzing with artists from across the country, as they gather to cast unique iron sculptures, create Raku pottery, and engage in other similar “fiery” events!

PAGE 14

akcoffeeroastery.com

CHECK OUT OUR POPULAR BLENDS!

COMING SOON!

May 2014

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Music Submitted by Alaska Sound Celebration Chorus

Anchorage – They started out as two smaller women’s a cappella choruses who were friendly rivals at regional barbershop competitions over the last few decades. But when Anchorage Sourdough Chorus and Top of the World Chorus finally merged several years ago to form the “bigger and badder” Alaska Sound Celebration Chorus, they unleashed a mighty force in the world of Sweet Adelines International across the globe.

Currently ranked 14th in the world among more than 600 choruses after competing on the international stage in Honolulu last November, Alaska Sound Celebration recently returned from Spokane, Wash., with its fourth regional championship against 22 other choruses from Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Oregon.

This means the 80-voice chorus comprised of nurses, a doctor, teachers, businesswomen, a lawyer, accountants, and other professions from Indian to the Mat-Su will be taking on 30 choruses from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, Sweden, and New Zealand at the Sweet Adelines International Competition in Vegas in October of 2015.

OUTHOUSE BLEND

FOG RISER

TUNDRA MUD

ARCTIC WOLF

Alaska Sound Celebration Chorus earns gold medals,

heads to Vegas in 2015

And their master director of the past 17 years, Peggy Benton, couldn’t be more thrilled.

“In a new expanded Region 13, ASC prepared beautifully to compete for a chance to sing in the ‘World Series’ of barbershop next year in Vegas,” Benton said, adding this year’s contest uptune, “Shanghai,” was cleverly tailored to the unique comedic personality of her singers.

“This chorus of women ranging in ages from 16 to 77 worked together to produce an ensemble of brilliant sound and outstanding expression

of emotion. The chorus had great rapport with the audience in Spokane and the judges sensed it. They worked as one unit presented ringing chords combined with passionate storytelling. A winning combination!

I couldn’t be more proud of their performance.”

The group, which meets every Tuesday night at Wayland Baptist University off Muldoon, is always seeking new singers on its risers and on stage at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts during its fall “Sing for Scholarships” show and at The Snow Goose Theater

for its wildly popular Fur Rondy Melodrama, now in its 25th year of sold-out shows. In addition, smaller ASC groups sing in new American citizens during the Naturalization Service Ceremonies downtown and perform at the Alaska State Fair, during Pride Fest, and various holiday opportunities.

> For more information, visit their website www. alaskasoundcelebration.org, Facebook site, or call their message phone, 907-566-3987

PAGE 15

Mat-Su Master Gardens Plant Sale Saturday May 31, 2014 - 9am - 3pm Palmer Pavillion, Downtown Palmer Free - 907-746-2948 matsumastergardeners.org

Still Kickin’ Asphalt Comedy Kickoff June 3, 2014 - 6:30pm Garcia’s Cantina & Cafe Eagle River- $15.00 Contact CERSC at 688-2676 or purchase at the door Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center 907-688-2676

Bel Canto 4th Anniversary Singing Competition Saturday, June 7th 9:00 AM and ending at 3:00 PM Bel Canto Alaska is proud to sponsor its 4th Anniversary Singing Competition, Saturday, June 7th at UAA Fine Arts Building Recital Hall

Machetanz Arts Festival Saturday, June 7th, all day.

2014 represents the fourth session of the Machetanz Art Festival at Matanuska-Susitna College.

907-745- 9755

CALENDAR CONTINUES ON PAGE 31

MAKEASCENEAK.COM

Alaska Pacific University Farmers Market Beginning May 23, 2014 Wednesdays 1:30pm – 6:30pm Alaska Pacific University: 4101 University Drive Contact: Chris Pavadore 907-564-8230 cpavadore@alaskapacific.edu Eagle River Farmers MarkET June – September Tuesdays 3pm - 7pm Eagle River: VFW Post Parking Lot Contact: Lynn Mattison 907-696-4839 mattison@ak.net Mat-Su Farmers Market Mondays 11am – 7pm Palmer: The Palmer Depot (610 S Valley Way) Contact: Carl Brooke 907-414-0154 www.matsufm.com Palmer Friday Flings May 23 - August 29 Fridays 10am - 5pm Palmer: Across from Visitor's Center 907-355-9415 www.palmerchamber.org

Willow Farmers Market July 4 - September 19 Fridays 2pm - 7pm Willow: Mile 69 Parks Highway (Across from Newman’s Tesoro) Contact: Dean Davidson 907-841-1132 ninadean@mtaonline.net Wasilla Marketplace May 17 – September 13] Weekdays 10am – 5pm Saturdays 10am – 6pm Wasilla: 1451 E Parks Hwy 907-357-2433 suzettelord@gmail.com Anchorage Farmers Market May 3 - October 11 Saturdays 9am - 2pm 15th Ave and Cordova St River Bean 907-746-1087 www.anchoragefarmersmarket.org info@anchoragefarmersmarket.org Wasilla Farmers Market June 4 - September 10 Time: Wednesdays 11am - 6pm Wasilla: West end of Iditapark (Next to Weber St) Contact: Lynn Follett 907-232-6310

May 2014

SUBMIT CALENDAR EVENTS ONLINE:

FARMERS MARKETS

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Alaska Bible College Community Kitchen Open House Fri, May 30 - Sat, May 31 3pm-7pm -8am-12pm Alaska Bible College, Palmer 907-745-3201 http://www.akbible.edu/about/ communitykitchen

Summer Reading Program is starting at the Palmer Public Library Registration opens on June 2nd.

Here’s a list of ongoing programs: Thursday, June 5th 6pm: Puppet Show featuring Beauty and the Beast Tuesdays at 10am: Baby Lap Sit Tuesdays at 11am: Preschool (2-5 years old) Story Time Thursdays at 11: Grades K-5 Program

PAGE 16

Arts

Calling All Artists!

Both venues are looking for artwork that is themed around food...be it harvesting, cooking, eating, or something in between.

> If you are interested in being a part of the show or have questions, contact at: events@denaliartscouncil.org or info@flyingsquirrelbakery.com

By Holli Papasadora,

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Denali Arts Council

The Flying Squirrel Bakery Cafe and The Denali Arts Council are teaming up!

> Submissions are due by August 6th, 2014.

This summer we’re having a double 2nd Saturday community art show titled Local EATS, which will help kick off Northern Susitna Institute’s Key Ingredients Festival.

Community WASILLA

Wasilla Marketplace May 17 – September 13 - Weekdays 10am – 5pm Saturdays 10am – 6pm

MARKET PLACE May 2014

The focus of the Wasilla market place is Alaskan made and goods and products. Supporting our local sustainable goods in Alaska is our hope.

We welcome fundraisers, and entertainment from our community; as well as arts, music, crafts, gardening , and much much more.

We enjoy giving our families, friends and neighbors a ace to laugh, meet, and support each other.

We look to leave a positive press ion to show tourists and neighbors that Wasilla, Alaska is an amazing home town to live and or visit!

Sincerely, Suzette Lord

33rd annual

Highland Games

By Lori Gorsch

Alaska State Fairgrounds June 28th 2014 Where can you see – Men throwing telephone poles across a field People playing Frisbee with “manhole covers” Bagpipers and Celtic Dancers competing

Bring your family to enjoy a good old-fashioned community gathering. A delicious variety of vendors offer everything from handmade jewelry and unique clothing to handmade weapons of old and demonstrations of their use.

An enticing choice of foods will be there that in past years have included Thai, Italian, Mexican, Bar-b-cue… just follow your nose!

If you have Celtic blood anywhere back through your family tree,

there is even a place to look up (and purchase) your Family’s Tartan.

Band – Seven Nations Good luck keeping your toes from tapping as the Seven Nation’s Band has made space for us in their busy schedule.

Watchers have described them as ‘performing the stuff of legends’ with addictive melodies that blend rock & roll and vocals with a fiddle and bagpipes… as they spread their musical magic into our hearts.

Bring a blanket to get comfortable and dance shoes as well…past years have seen crowds stay till sweep-up time!

For the over 21 crowd, try sampling a variety of 7-10 Single Malt Scotch varieties in a “ tasting” with a beautiful scotch glass to keep.

You’re not Scottish? In Alaska, at the Fairgrounds, on June 28th, you can be!

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Come see your friends and neighbors compete (as well as some international guys) in these events and root on our home teams.

Watch the professionals or join one of the amateur teams for the epic Tug-of-War!

PAGE 17

Culture

> Come enjoy the fun, expose you kids to a different culture and take home memories without having to travel! Join us!

May 2014

PAGE 18 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com May 2014

Entertainment

MidSummer Garden & Ar

a PAssion for Plants

By Denise Statz

learn about gardening and those seeking artsy additions to their home and yard.

For the fifth year she is instrumental in gathering a cadre of workers to create the annual Midsummer Garden and Art Faire in Palmer, slated for the 12th of July.

a great success, well attended and much enjoyed by the community. Perhaps the most memorable aspect of that first year was the location on the “Quad” the big green park like area between the Borough and the Palmer library, an area long unused for community gatherings.

A visit with Brooke is the equivalent of an agricultural intensive, with an artistic twist. She is the curator of splendid gardening scenes, landscapes replete with hand wrought willow arbors and the hearty plants that she cultivates and sells as part of her Woolwood Studios and Gardens, located in Palmer. It is the fine-tuned work of a dedicated and skilled Northern gardener.

Five years ago, following notification that the Alaska State Fair had cancelled annual event, Brooke joined forces with Special Santa organizer Mary Jo Parks to bring the event to town. Brooke smiles and recalls “Oh, Mary Jo! ‘We must have caught her by surprise! She just heard the story and pretty much agreed to take it on right then and there!” “It was amazing! I mean she called in the troops and put that thing together in about six weeks!” “It was fabulous!”

Since then the Special Santa program has passed the baton and now, in its fifth year, after a few growing pains and a little readjustment, the Midsummer Garden and Art Faire is under the umbrella of the Palmer Museum and Visitors Center.

Brooke’s passion for plants has for the past several years worked to the benefit of the community, those who yearn to

Saved from withering, the Midsummer Garden and Art Faire was transplanted to the downtown Palmer area and was

Brooke Heppinstall and I sit in the bright spring sun, visiting. The coffee is strong and the conversation rich. The subject is gardening and Brooke, the gardening maven, provides a wealth of rich detail and suggestion regarding a new bed, groomed and as yet unplanted.

The event features a wonderful array of musicians, artists, local foods, crafters, classes in gardening, food preservation, photography, basketry, care and feeding of chickens in Northern climates and more. Music and art on the green! What could be better? Like most Palmer events, one goal is to introduce folks to the

whole of Palmer, the excellen community, the talent, the s good food and all that is availab and the group of dedicated volu conjunction with Palmer Mu Vistor’s Center Director Selen Chiolero, put every effort in to a variety of activities that people to take it all in.

From scavenger hunts to st located music and art, and the the Rhubarb Rumble, back this vigor, it is an event that will educated and please your sens

> Information will be ava on the Facebook page Mid Garden and Art Faire, Pal AK. Community calendars the Palmer Museum and V Center website.

www.palmermuseum

PAGE 19

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ants

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

nt walking shops, the ble. Brooke unteers, in useum and na Ortegao including encourage

rategically e return of s year with entertain, ses.

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May 2014

ailable dsummer lmer, s are on Visitors

PAGE 20 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Entertainment

ART ON FIRE CONTINUED

This cycle of heating and melting scrap iron, and pouring the artist’s molds will continue throughout the day. If you are interested in signing up for Pat’s workshop, call him at 441-6728.

May 2014

Throughout the day, artist Karen Lopez, who owns “NuKreationZ” in Palmer, will conduct her Raku pottery workshop. Karen will provide each participant with a vessel or pot of unglazed ceramic ware, known as bisque, which the participants will decorate with a variety of glazes and then fire in one of Karen’s special Raku kilns.

After a short firing, the “red hot” vessels will be placed inside a metal can full of combustible materials, a process that draws the oxygen out of the glaze and is responsible for the unique and completely unpredictable Raku look.

Judy Vars will demonstrate Encaustic wax painting, the Association of Alaskan Blacksmiths will demonstrate blacksmithing techniques, and other fiery arts such as glass flameworking will also be demonstrated. The Alaska Wild Bird Rehab Center plans to have live rescued birds for display, and Sahara Storm Tribal Dance Troupe will perform. Live music and food will be available.

> The 7th VAA Art on Fire Iron Pour Art Fest will be held at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry, located at 3800 W. Museum Drive (near the airport) in Wasilla, from 10am until 5pm on Saturday, June 21. The ticket price is $10, with children under 12 admitted free.

Please join the fun! We hope to turn this day into an extraordinary Iron Pour Art Fest in the Valley!

Colony Days in historic Palmer

PAGE 21

Entertainment

on June 6, 7 and 8 Submitted By Ralph Renzi,

Palmer Chamber of Commerce

It sounds like the recipe for the perfect small town America event.

That’s exactly what it is—Palmer’s Colony Days, a sampling of everything fun in the heart of the Mat-Su Valley, thrown together for a three-day celebration.

This year’s event takes place on June 6, 7 and 8.

The small town feel to Palmer lends a very personal felling to the event.

All you have to do is park your car and walk around town to take in all the fun and festivities.

There is the Saturday Parade, sidewalk art for children, the Bill Mitchell 5K Fun Run/Walk for both children and adults and events such as a salmon recipe contest, rhubarb recipe contest, ladybug release, craft, landscape and open air markets located in Palmer. Hayrides whisk people around town, while the sound of live

entertainment fills the air. There’s even a bicycle scavenger hunt for the entire family to participate in.

At the heart of the Colony Days celebration is the history of Palmer.

Colony House tours are offered by the Palmer Historical Society during Colony Days, and the tours give people a chance to take in the history of the Colonists and the impact they made in the Valley.

This year the celebration should be even bigger and better. So join us in Palmer on June 6, 7 and 8 for Colony Days 2014.

> For more information or to download entry forms for the events, visit www. palmerchamber.org or call the Chamber office at 745-2880

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

A grand parade through the heart of the town, community events in nearly every building, numerous recipe contests and a custom car rally at night conjure up images of childhood celebrations. Small children drawing with chalk on the sidewalk and playing games help reinforce the notion.

Each year, the Colony Days festival pays tribute to the history of Palmer. Hosted by the Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce, the event is rich in history, and rich in fun. There truly is something for everybody at the event.

Walking through downtown Palmer in early June is a great way to spend an afternoon, checking out the Palmer Museum of History and Art, the Palmer Agriculture showcase garden, taking pictures of the rustic buildings framed by Pioneer Peak in the background or smelling the flowers in the downtown.

May 2014

But add the Colony Days celebration, and the town has even more to offer the entire family.

a review of vpa’s

See How They Run

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

PAGE 22

Theatre

Review by Mariah Brashar

May 2014

Valley Performing Arts has stuck gold again with their new production of See How They Run. The rowdy play, set in the post WWII English countryside, is a slap-slick comedy sure to keep audience members of all ages in stitches. See How They Run isn’t a particularly well known play, but the talented cast gives a performance that promises to make it memorable for all who see it.

The play owes much of its success to superb casting, most notably Director Vanessa Warner’s selection of Todd Broste as “Corporal Clive

Winton” and Greta Kopperud as “Ida”. The two characters create a fantastically convincing and memorable dynamic.

Kopperud shines as “Ida”, a lusty and nontoo-demure maid who tries to keep the household under control despite ceaselessly surprising circumstances. Broste brings on the snide remarks while contributing to the general mayhem.

Larry Bottjen and Laura Horning star in the show as “Reverend Lionel Toop” and his vivacious American wife, “Penelope”.

Horning’s performance draws many laughs and Bottjen gives a hilarious

performance. Cynthia Lee, whose acting talents never cease to amaze, gives a knock-out performance as “Miss Skillon”, the nosey parishioner whose passion for Reverend Toop and predilection for cooking sherry leave the audience howling with laughter. Lee wows the audience with her every wild move.

After an introduction to the main characters, the audience members are kept on the edge of their seats by a series of unexpected happenings.

While the Reverend is called off, his wife is visited by an old friend.

Miss Skillon witnesses their reunion and is scandalized all the way to the

bottle. Meanwhile, a Russian spy, played by Nate Nicholls, escapes prison. Later, when Mrs. Toop is visited by her uncle, “The Bishop of Lax” (played by Dave Nufer), absolute hilarity ensues. To preserve her reputation, the drunken Miss Skillon is shoved into the closet for safe keeping. Nufer’s Bishop is a crowd-pleaser - his resounding voice, effortless acting, and tonguein-cheek humor tie the entire show together.

Each act brings more laughs, more people hiding in the closet, and cases after case of mistaken identity.

Although the whole show takes

PAGE 23

Theatre

place on one set, the audience is transported to the garden, the closet, and various areas of the house by the convincing narrative, skillful acting, and fantastic activity of the play.

See How They Run opens May 9th and runs (no pun intended) through the 25th. It plays at 7PM on Thursdays, 8PM on Friday and Saturday nights, and at 2PM on Sundays.

See How They Run is a rambunctious good time. The two-hour show flies by and leaves the audience wishing for another round of the bawdy comedy.

While the show is geared towards a mature audience, with all the running, shouting, and falling over, it’s sure to please youngsters as well.

> Regular admission is $18.50, students and senior tickets are $16.50.

Valley Performing Arts is located at 251 W. Swanson Avenue, in downtown Wasilla, and can be contacted at 373-0195 or online

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

See How They Run CONTINUED

www.valleypreformingarts.org

May 2014

PAGE 24

Entertainment

COUNTRY FAIR

By Anna Phelps

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

A few of my other favorite things just so happen to be right here… nestled between Wasilla and Hatcher Pass right next to the Little Susitna River.

It’s a quiet seven mile drive on Wasilla Fishhook then down a country road named Welch and there is the cutest little log cabin church you have ever seen!

Every year the faithful parishioners set up to have a neighborhood gathering filled with delicious homemade brats from the church’s own butcher, the loveliest Sweet Shoppe filled to the brim with tasty treats and since the baker is gluten free herself, she takes joy in baking for everyone!

There is Old Fizzywigs where the matron mixes up her batches of homemade Alaskan syrups to create delicious soda pops and root beer floats for kids and adults to enjoy. Let your children pet the animals in the petting zoo as long as they like, get their face painted by the local artisan and they can even enjoy the Kiddie Corral filled with all sorts of merriment (including a bouncy house!)

May 2014

There are fun old school style carnival games for the big kids

too like the ring toss, chicken fling, balloon darts and a prize booth to boot! Participate in the potato sack race, the tug-of-war, or perhaps the pie eating contest is your preference. There is plenty of seating on their lovely quilt covered hay bales and adorable bistro chairs.

You mom’s might want to bring your pocket book because their Trading Post is full of great deals on used items and full of handmade goodness from the creative ladies of the parish, if you forget cash, there is an ATM on site.

Don’t forget the food booth filled with locally made brats and the most delicious gyros in town.

You’ll be sure to make this an annual affair you won’t want to miss! It truly is A Festival of Food, Games, Prizes and Family Fun!

All proceeds help pay for the continual building projects as their church continues to grow.

Sponsorship is greatly appreciated.

> Please contact Anna Phelps @ 357-2046 or anna@ matsumail.com for more information. Please like our facebook page titled “Annual Country Fair, Saint Herman’s OC”

Brown Paper Packages Tied Up With Strings…

These are a few of my favorite things!

MAGAZINE Thank you for helping MAS reach 7 years in print!

FEEDBACK, please...

What do you enjoy reading about in MAS? What would you like to see more of in MAS? Send us your thoughts makeasceneak@mac.com

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PAGE 26 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com May 2014

Short Story

By Raymond E. Lyons Jr.

The Great Goodpasture River Hunt of 1987

In the last quarter of the 20th Century, the autumn moose hunt was an iconic Alaskan leitmotif. A moose skull nailed above his doorway was the aspiration of nearly every rural Alaskan, tangible proof of his rite of passage from Cheechako to Real Sourdough.

It’s called a hunt (not grocery shopping) because one must first find it, then kill it, and then carry it home. The state has laws against failing to salvage the meat. Indeed, heaven help the poor schmuck who carries out the antlers first, even with the most sincere intentions to return and get the meat.

The state is merciless about that. Most of the hunters in the Tanana Valley know the old adage, “The fun stops when the hammer drops”, for from the moment the moose goes down, it is pure hard work. A bull moose can dress out at over 700 lbs. of meat and the antlers alone can weigh up to 75 lbs. This year, Papa was taking his 15-year-old on this rite of passage.

In preparation for the hunt, Papa had purchased a new 90 horse Johnson outboard for his used 18-foot flat bottom johnboat. For a few extra bucks he replaced the lower unit with a used jet impeller. In the weeks leading up to the hunt, he and his oldest child piled gear all over Momma’s cellar floor, weighing the merits of every item… discarding some today, adding some tomorrow, only to discard some more. One would have thought they were in Skagway, readying to trek up the Chilkoot Pass with the Klondike Gold Rushers.

Reading chronicles of Arctic and Antarctic expeditions (especially Scott and Shackleton); on the weekend before hunting season, they went up the lower Goodpasture and cached extra food and fuel for the return trip…just in case.

The first day had gone fairly well, only running aground seven or eight times (each time going over the side to push the boat off and stand waist deep in the frigid water pulling rocks out of the jet impeller intake-grill). Late on the afternoon of the second day they struck a gravel bar; ripping a hole in the seam between the transom and the deck and sinking the boat. With help from a passing hunter, they managed to pull the boat from the bottom of the river to the bank. For three days they hand drilled aluminum from slit beer cans to pop rivet a patch over the transom, hunting moose each morning and evening (unsuccessfully, I must admit). On the third day, as night came on, they

sat around the campfire and watched as a river runner hove into sight. Seeing the disabled craft on the riverbank, the hunters stopped to render assistance. As our heroes related their travails, the hunters postulated that since the Goodpasture was glacier-fed and winter was coming on, there was less melt, so the water levels had dropped.

They had made it to a creek well beyond the logjam portage and still had seen no moose. Warming up with fresh coffee at the campfire, they commiserated on the paucity of moose, attributing it to the insidious encroachment of progress and civilization happening everywhere in Alaska.

With less than half an hour of daylight left, the visitors had launched their boat and headed down river, promising to pass a message to Momma that her hunters were coming out and she should meet them early at the Tanana Bridge.

That had been the day before yesterday.

Yesterday they had started down river feeling pretty satisfied. True, the Harpies of Ill Fortune had thrown down the gauntlet, but yesterday, our heroes had resolutely picked it up and routed them from the field. It had been the first really great day of the hunt. The sun shined on the pristine wilderness, beaver played in the sloughs; and on several occasions, rounding a bend in the river, they espied bald eagles surveying their kingdoms from lofty perches in spruce trees along the bank.

Late in the afternoon, they stopped at the fuel cache and topped off their tank. Locating their prior camp, they laid a fire and settled in for the night.

Unbeknownst to our modern Argonauts; about the time they were bedding down, Momma received a garbled phone call from the bush. In those primordial days before the advent of cell phones, bush calls were relayed from short wave to short wave until they reached a cabin with a phone, the occupant of which made the call.

As with all human communication, each short wave call involved receiving, interpreting and re-phrasing the message for the next bounce downriver. Inevitably, the story evolved in the telling. In this instance, what started as “ sunk the boat but got it afloat again – everything OK – meet

us at the bridge in two days”; eventually arrived as “ Lost the motor – Floating the Tanana – Hope to arrive at the launch point in two days”. Floating, as in no power or control of the boat.

Now for you Cheechakos out there, the Tanana is a major river system draining a large portion of the land between the Alaska Range and the Brooks Range. It is silted, deep and in places, very fast. Gale force winds are common, but in a storm, gusts can exceed force 10 on the Beaufort scale (over 55 knots). Much as she loved Papa, she knew he wasn’t experienced enough to float his johnboat down the Tanana like some 20th Century Huckleberry Finn floating his raft down the Mississippi…but he was wild enough to try it.

Complicating matters, the evening weather report warned of a severe storm system due to arrive over the middle Tanana Valley after midnight. Momma was now extremely concerned.

Anxious and unable to sleep, she drove down to the launch-point shortly after dawn. As she paced along the riverbank (and several gusts nearly knocked her down) she could not see how her family could safely navigate the river. Staring glumly at the rapid current, it seemed to her the gusts were strengthening, as were her misgivings.

Finally, in desperation, she returned home and called a family friend with a boat to request a rescue mission.

About the time she was pacing at the launch point, our stouthearted woodsmen awoke to a discordant fluttering all through the tent. A wind gust had torn part of the entryway, flapping it like a rug being dusted on a clothesline. For Poppa, it was just something one had to expect braving the wilds of the Alaskan Frontier. Convinced the winds would die down as they got farther down river, they cheerfully broke camp, and shoved off into the current. The wind, however, did not die down, veering to head on. Despite the headwinds and the repairs on the transom, they had managed to get the boat “on step” . With his son in the bow watching for sleepers, they were moving at a good rate of speed as they entered a sharp bend. Thinking of the yarns he would spin

Short Story about his adventures when he got back home; Papa used the pilot console to steady himself against the centrifugal force.

“HANG ON!!!” His strained voice resonated above the roar of the outboard as he crashed full length on the deck, the pilot console landing atop him. With no one steering, the 90 horse Johnson (utterly oblivious to the commotion up forward) roared right along driving the boat out of the water, over a beached log, and depositing it on the gravel bar almost parallel to the channel: a full eight feet from the water. As it pitched to a stop, the steering console shifted slightly, activating the kill switch and shutting down the motor. Assured no one was hurt, Papa rapidly assessed the situation and concluded they were well and truly up the proverbial creek. But at least they had a paddle (although, in reality, it was an oar). Even so, they had one hell of a problem, for no rising tide was coming to float them off. Furthermore, large outboards do not have throttle-steering handles.

Evaluating and discarding several options, Papa grabbed his Sven saw and led them up the riverbank and into the woods. Selecting a suitable spruce tree, they sawed it down and dragged it to the boat. With the camp-hatchet, they knocked all the limbs off, fashioning a crude lever pole. With considerable straining and shoving, they managed to get a few inches of pole under the stern. Heaving up the opposite end of the lever with all their strength, they elevated the stern and watched, gratified, as the boat slid down the lever-pole to land on the gravel a couple of inches closer to the water. It worked again at the bow. So the afternoon passed. Grunt-toilheave-sweat…now the stern…then the bow…back to the stern. Grunt-toil-heave-sweat, grunt-toil-heavesweat, Yo! Heave! Ho! Yo! Heave! Ho! Break up the mantra with an occasional expletive (of which Momma would not approve) as you contemplate the distance still remaining to the water. Grunttoil-heave-sweat . Yo! Heave! Ho! Periodically remind yourself of all the fun you are having on this (EXPLETIVE DELETED) moose hunt. Grunt – toil – heave –sweat. Yo! Heave! Ho! At some point in this nightmarish void, Papa realized his hands were getting wet twisting the lever pole under the stern. Gradually, the weight of the boat became less as the stern began to float and a few minutes later, the current suddenly wrenched it from the bar, necessitating a mad scramble to grab the bow line as the boat started downriver.

With his vessel securely tied to the log, Papa stared at the engine, hoping for inspiration on how

The Great Goodpasture River Hunt of 1987 CONTINUED to maneuver the outboard. Poets contend that necessity is the mother of invention. Most of us mere mortals, however, eventually learn that like any conscientious mother, she can be worn to a frazzle and require a rest. Papa and son continued to stare for a significant length of time.

“Papa,” it was tentatively spoken, “can we duct tape the steering console back into place?”

Not wanting to hurt the youngster’s feelings, (he had, after all, not whined even one time about all the problems), Papa stifled his reflex response regarding the idiocy of the suggestion (Papa was, after all, an ex-Army Sergeant). Yet, talk about out of the mouths of babes…Mother Necessity finally roused herself and like the final move of a Rubik’s cube, a way forward fell into place. Duct tape the base of the console to the deck…Half way from the base to the top, run parachute cord around it…use parachute cord to tie guy-lines from each corner of the pilot console to the corresponding corner of the boat…two to the bow, two to the stern. Some time later, as they surveyed the finished product, they had to admit it certainly wasn’t pretty…but it was stable enough to turn the outboard from side to side.

Twisting the ignition key, Papa gave heartfelt thanks to the Almighty when the engine caught and settled into its throaty roar. Slowly backing away from the bar, they once more headed for the rendezvous; fighting the headwind, and occasionally going over the side to pull the boat off a bar and once again pull rocks from the impeller intakegrill with his trusty Leatherman…It was however, noticeably less often than coming up-river. As the sun moved into the final quarter of its arc, the cold, wet hunters finally spotted the confluence of the Goodpasture and the Tanana. Only eight miles of the Tanana remained between them and the rendezvous, so they pulled out on a gravel bar to boil some water over a hasty campfire…a warm-up break before the final push down the Tanana River. Papa had given his son a cup of chocolate and was mixing himself some powdered coffee when the rescue boat arrived.

With his offspring safely on the rescue boat, he cranked up his engine. By the gods, he was determined, to bring his vessel back to port under her own power! He was not, however, willing to risk the kid. There was absolutely no way he was going home to tell Momma he had lost their child on the river. He’d sooner throw himself upon his sword (in this case his authentic Green River Hunting Knife mail-ordered from Smoky Mountain Knife Works) than face her with such news. Like Roman

Governor Varus after the Battle of Teutoberg, he knew in the end it would be quicker and more merciful. The Fates, however, relented somewhat; and 45 minutes later, Papa beached his beat-up craft on the gravel beneath the Tanana River Bridge.

While towing the boat back home, the three Moirai had a final sardonic laugh. From the roadside, a bull moose with at least a 50-inch rack darted across the road, directly in front of Papa’s truck…a near collision.

Impatiently waiting at home, Momma paced the floor, praying for their safe return. Finally they drove up and she ran out to meet them. Although immensely relieved that both of them were safe, she was in no mood for Poppa’s cheerful greeting: “Hi Baby, we sunk the boat but we got it back home. How long ya think before the insurance pays off so I can go get a new one and get back out?”

“NEVER!!!” It was the roar of an enraged momma grizzly, springing to the defense of her cub, “ YOU COULD HAVE KILLED MY SON!!!”

With that, she took her cub into the house, punctuating her exit by slamming the front door…in absolutely no mood whatever to be trifled with.

Having been married only 19 years, Papa was still somewhat of a neophyte in the Eleusinian Mysteries of Feminine Logic. He was however, astute enough to realize this was probably not the best time for a rational discussion regarding his escapades up-river. He wasn’t terribly worried, though, for this marriage was a love match. Time would work its soothing magic on her, and when she had calmed down; he was confident he would dazzle her with the brilliance of his logic and she’d relent and let him get another boat – and he was right.

She finally came around – five years later.

There was one lesson he had taken to heart from the Great Goodpasture River Hunt of 1987.

The course of one’s life is similar to the course of the river as it sweeps to its fated extinction in the sea. The quantity of material things one possesses in reality is of little consequence, for they can be beached on the gravel bars of adversity at any moment. Just as the river, in the course of its meanderings, affects everything it touches; the true monuments to a person’s existence are the interactions and memories engendered in the dayto-day flow of life to the Spiritual Oceania from whence it came.

PAGE 28

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

makeasceneak@mac.com

SENIORS

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Palmer Senior Citizens Center, Inc.

The priApry mission of the Palmer Senior Citizens Center, Inc. is to assist individuals age sixty or older, individuals of any age with Alzheimer’s Disease or Related Disorders, individuals of any age on the Medicaid Waiver program and other eligible individuals in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough remain as independent as possible in the least restrictive environment possible and out of expensive nursing homes for as long as possible.

Services include: congregate and home delivered meals, transportation, adult day services, care coordination, senior employment, family caregivers support, information / referral, chore services, senior housing, chore services, Better Choices Better Health classes, HELP program, activities and volunteer opportunities.

745-5454, pscc@mtaonline.net

Alzheimer’s Resource Agency of Alaska

As Alaska’s resource on Alzheimer’s disease, the Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Agency of Alaska (ADRAA) is committed to providing information, education and services for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders (ADRD) and their caregivers. We have served Alaskans since 1984, and today we help more than 5,000 people annually.

As a non-profit statewide organization, we provide family consultations, care coordination, in-home services for frail elders & individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and education programs to family caregivers and health care professionals.

We are your resource for information and can refer you to services in Alaska or the contiguous U.S. Sam Meneses, 746-3432, www.alzalaska.org

Valley Charities, Inc; Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Store

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

John Rozzi , 376-5740

Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. (WASI)

A Health and Wellness Campus for Seniors on the Go! The goal at WASI is to assist and refer services for Seniors 60 and older so they can live as independently as possible for as long as possible. Some of the services provided are: Meals: Family Style Meals Monday through Friday 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Center. Meals on Wheels home delivered meals.

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

Dennie Jaques , 376-3104

May 2014

Mat-Su Area Partnership (MAP)

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

Mid-Valley Seniors Inc

Mid-Valley Seniors, Inc. Mid-Valley Seniors has 3 senior housing units-18 apartments and serves a congregate meal MonFri at 12:00pm. Home delivered meals served daily fresh Mon-Fri, weekend meals are frozen.

Transportation to Adult Day Services is available Mon-Fri 8:00am-3:00pm Come up to the Center for activities or lunch.

Lisa Byrd, 892-6114 mvscadmin@mtaonline.net

FAMILIES & CHILDREN Alaska Family Services

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

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

LINKS Mat-Su Parent Resource Center.

We provide support and assistance to families with disabilities. LINKS provides support and trainings, parent to parent connections to mentor, information and referral, and access to library materials. These services are provided through one-on-one assistance and individualized workshops for small or large groups. Our vision is to ensure that every parent and family who has a child with a special need has access to information, education, outreach, and support in a culturally competent environment and to empower then to be advocates for themselves, their children, and their families.

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

MYHouse Homeless Teen Shelter in the Matsu

is a non-profit that exists to provide services to unaccompanied youth, ages 14-24, in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. The services we provide include, but are not limited to, hot meals, shelf stable foods, gas cards, transport to shelter, clothing, tents, sleeping bags, laundry, shower, hygiene products, street outreach, access to medical, dental and mental health care, vocational services and employment opportunities, educational advocacy and life coaching. Our youth center, The Gathering Place, is located at 300 N. Willow St in central Wasilla.

Also on campus is the MYHouse Café, Gathering Grounds, which exists to provide employment for homeless and at risk youth, as well as our partnering agencies and businesses, Nine Star, Mat-Su Public Health Center and Car Deets (an automotive detailing business which hires homeless youth). To learn more, visit our website at myhousematsu.org or call 373-4357.

Family Promise Mat-Su

Provides a shelter for families without housing.

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

Applications are available on our website.

357-6160, www.familypromisematsu.org

The Children’s Place

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

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

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska

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

Alaska Center for Resource Families

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

376-4678, bwoodin@nwresource.org

Pillows for Kids Foundation

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

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

Valerie Koivunen pillowsforkids@gmail.com

The Moose Boosters Wrestling Club

A youth development organization that provides aid and funding to low income recreational facilitates and athletes at the high school level.

Funding supports athletes who participate in wrestling programs while meeting academic standards.

Michelle Heun 355-7099

Set Free Alaska

Brief description about non-profit: Our children, friends, co-workers; there is someone we know who is struggling with addiction and destructive behaviors. It is the goal of Set Free Alaska to provide excellent, individualized services to our clients. Set Free Alaska is a Christian outpatient substance abuse treatment center that uses a mind-body-spirit approach to recovery. Our programs are designed to assist people in gaining freedom from the bondage of addiction and destructive behaviors. Set Free Alaska realizes that cost can be a huge deterrent to people seeking and receiving the help they need as well as a huge relapse trigger. Our assessments are based on a sliding fee scale. It is the goal of Set Free Alaska that no person be denied the services they need due to lack of financial resources. Our offices are open Mon-Fri 10-6 and we are located on the Palmer-Wasilla Highway across from the AT&T Sports Center.

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

Big Lake Community Clothing Closet

Donated by local Alaskans, Big Lake Community Clothing Closet provides quality clothing to people in need, at no charge.

Clothing and footwear for people of all ages is available. Also, assorted household items as they are available.

This unique program helps people locally.

Donations are accepted, to further the program.

Any money donated helps pay the rent for our location at 2955 Big Lake Rd., Big Lake, Alaska.

Financial donation could also be mailed to the Big Lake Community Clothing Closet, PO Box 527069, Big Lake, AK 99652.

Open Wednesday’s from 11am-3pm All donations of quality clothing in good condition can be donated at the above address during regular hours of operation.

We are a non-profit organization, all donations are tax deductable. Tax ID available to donors.

Check us out on Facebook.

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

The ARTs Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums

Those interested in lessons, or in playing pipes or drums with Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums, please contact the Band by email at craigag@mtaonline. net or by telephone at (907) 688-4196. The band’s website can be found at http://www.alaskaceltic. org , plus, we’re on Facebook! “The Pipes, the Pipes are calling...”

Radio Free Palmer

Radio Free Palmer is community radio serving the Sutton and Palmer communities as KVRF 89.5 FM and online at radiofreepalmer.org. On air since 2011, KVRF’s mission is to foster community involvement. Currently we produce great local shows on topics from health to mushing - and the list of programs is growing. Online we add important community events such as the Borough Assembly and School Board Meetings.

Listen to Radio Free Palmer KVRF 89.5 for more community-centric news, music, sports, music or come volunteer to to help bring great radio programming to the valley.

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

Valley Fine Arts Association

VFAA was formed to teach techniques, and encourage fellowship among visual artists in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. we strive to promote a supportive attitude toward visual arts in our Alaskan community.

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

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

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

Mat-Su Community Chorus, Inc.

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

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

We meet Octember through Nov. on Thursday evenings at 7-9pm in the Choir Room at Wasilla High School.

Nan Potts 745-8788 matsucomchours@gmail.com

Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums of Eagle River

Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums of Eagle River, under the leadership of Pipe Major Aja Stewart and Drum Sergeant Bryan Gonzales, are actively recruiting pipers and drummers, as well as those interested in learning Great Highland Bagpipes and Highland Drumming (snare, tenor, bass.) We would like to extend a cordial invitation to anyone who would like to learn to play bagpipes or drums, to FREE lessons with our Band.

We are a grade IV competing, family-oriented pipe band established in 2005, and beginners of any

age are welcome. Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums are very active in supporting the community in which we live. Our purpose is to advance the rich cultural heritage of Great Highland Bagpipe music, and to have FUN doing it! ACPD provides free instruction in piping and drumming, with Band practice to follow, every Friday evening at 5:00 and 5:45 pm at Eagle River Presbyterian Church, 12836 Old Glenn Highway, in Eagle River .

Those interested in lessons, or in becoming members of ACPD, please contact the Band by email at Nov.gstensgericht@yahoo.com or by telephone at (907) 376-5060. The band’s website can be found at http://www.alaskaceltic.org

Mat-Su Concert Band, Inc.

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

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

The Whirling Rainbow Foundation

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

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

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

Valley Performing Arts

We’re celebrating 36 years of Quality Live Theatre!

VPA performs seven plays a year from Octember through Nov.. We welcome actors, volunteers, program advertisers and play sponsors to join in supporting VPA, the Valley’s oldest live theatre.

The VPA Summer Theatre Arts Programs take place Nov. through Nov. and are for youth 6-11 and 12-17. The VPA Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony is held each Nov. and Annual Fundraiser in October.

Purchase your tickets online or from our office.

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

373-0195, www.valleyperformingarts.org

Valley Arts Alliance

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

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

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

ANIMALS AK Cat Kitty Rescue

is a local small kitty rescue. We specialize in litters of kittens, and our facility is designed that way.

We will take in litters from the community, and will assist in getting their mom cat spayed. ALL of our kittens are up to date on vaccines, and have been spayed/ or neutered prior to adoptions. We are

All Donations are tax deductible, according to state and federal laws. You can make a donation to The Last Frontier Honor Flight PO Box 520116 Big Lake, Alaska 99652, or pay with a credit card on our website at www.tlfhonorflight.org.

If you would like to volunteer you can contact our President Ron Travis at (907) 892-6097 for meeting times and places.

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

(907) 357-0256 , valleyres.org

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

745-7030 adpr03@yahoo.com

The Sertoma Club - Wasilla

Alaska Attachment & Bonding Associates (AABA)

Alaska Assistance Dogs (Aad)

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

You can pledge or sign up to jump! Just visit our website for more information.

Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue (ADPR)

Meadow Gates Farm Sanctuary

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

Responsible adult volunteers are always needed.

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

VARIETY The Last Frontier Honor Flight

Our mission is to transport WWII, Alaska Territorial Guard and Korean War veterans to Washington D.C. to visit those memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices AT NO COST TO THE VETERANS.

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

TOPS

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

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

Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS)

Our mission is to educate and provide opportunities in our community to reduce, reuse, and recycle for the long-term good of all.

Our vision is to establish the Mat-Su Borough as a model recycling community for Alaska. We are open for residential recycling Wednesday through Friday 12-6pm and Saturday 11-3pm.

Businesses can call ahead for hours. Your permanent community recycling center is located in our new green building at 9465 E. Chanlyut Circle, next to the animal shelter at the Central Landfill. Volunteer opportunities available. community@valleyrecycling.org www.valleyrecycling.org, 745.5544

Valley Residential Services (VRS)

VRS provides special needs housing individuals who experience behavioral

to or

Educates and supports foster, adoptive, kinship care, step, grand and guardianship parents and professionals who care for children with emotional mental health issues, such as Attachment Disorder. AABA provides workshops, e-mail/telephone support, resource/ referral information, self-advocacy, AABA website www.akattachment.org, RAVEN Respite, newsletters, brochures, lending library, and Mom2Mom/Dad2Dad parent support group. For more information: Laura Wagner 907-376-0366

Food Pantry of Wasilla

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

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

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

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

We also administer distribution of TEFAP government commodities. TEFAP is (The Emergency Food Assistance Program). This is a needs-based program, which Nov. be accessed monthly by any client who meets the governmentestablished-qualifications. Food distributed is based on availability and instructions from USDA. In case of emergencies such as fire or earthquake in the valley, the Food Pantry of Wasilla also cooperates with other organizations and government agencies to render assistance.

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

OUTDOORS North America Outdoor Institute

The North America Outdoor Institute (NAOI) is a

Alaskans for Palmer Hay Flats

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

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

Alaska Frontier Trappers Association

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

Wasilla Soil & Water Conservation District (WSWCD)

The WSWCD is a non-profit formed in 1948 to assist landowners & land managers with conservation & development on land through technical assistance, projects & education programs & services. WSWCD is an active, yearround community-based organization; a nonregulatory agency; a strong partner with various government & non-profit agencies/groups; a credible, knowledgeable advocate for conserving soil & water resources supported by the time & energy of neighbors & volunteers dedicated to making a positive difference in their communities. Our priorities are: Salmon enhancement & restoration; Soil, forage crops & manure testing; Stream & lake bank stabilization; Water quality & instream flows; Arbor Day activities & tree planting; Invasive weed assessments – land & water; Trail use & salmon stream crossings; Cooperator & community conservation needs; Public information, involvement & education.

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

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

CONSERVATION The Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center (AWBRC)

The Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center (AWBRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that offers bird rescue and rehabilitation services for the growing Mat-Su Valley community. Our mission is to rescue and care for injured, orphaned and sick wild birds with the goal of returning healthy birds back to their native habitats, and to educate the public about Alaska’s wild birds through live wild bird programs.

The Center is operated by dedicated volunteers helping to feed the birds, administer medical treatment, clean cages, and do whatever it takes to help these wild birds survive and gain strength for their eventual release or participation in our education program. Volunteers also plan and conduct fundraising events to keep the birds fed and warm. It’s all “for the birds.”

AWBRC has recently signed a long-term lease for 25 acres in the City of Houston, and is looking forward to the beginning phases of a permanent facility there. To volunteer, donate or for further information, contact AWBRC at 907.892.1670, 907.230.7049, or visit www.akwildbirdrehab.org.

May 2014

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

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

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

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

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

We host the Mat Su Polar Plunge raising funds for non-profits in the Matanuska Susitna Valley, Alaska. February 2011 we saw 85 jumpers raise almost $20,000 which was then given to the Food Pantry of Wasilla and Turn A Leaf Thrift Stores. The Food Pantry provides emergency food supplies to families in need. Turn A Leaf has a medical lending equipment program which is now organized with software purchased with funds received. Both were grant recipients from the Mat Su Sertoma Club. Grant applications for the 2012 Mat Su Polar Plunge are located on our website: www.matsuplunge.com.

not-for-profit community outreach organization providing outdoor safety and environmental awareness education programs for the general public in an effort to save lives from preventable outdoor injuries and deaths. Debra McGhan, debra@naoiak.org 376-2898 , www.naoiak.org

PAGE 29

a 501c3, so any donations are tax deductible. If you are looking to adopt, or need help placing a litter, please call us! We are currently looking for help with computer type tasks, updating website, or updating our adoptions and monthly expences.

AK CAT 907-232-4444 www.akcat.org

poetry Song of the Deadman’s Wish

poetry

YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW A POET? www.makeasceneak.com

by Gregory Gusse

Laying here beneath the soft blue sky waiting for my last breath, my last breath to go by little darlin’ ain’t no reason, no reason for you to cry but say a little prayer say a little memory of me ….from your true heart ....if ya have some soft time

My body might be found in desert bare don’t worry it, leave it, I have no cares, I have no cares don’t need no sugar nor salt no more but say a little prayer say a little memory of me ….from your dewy heart ...if ya have the mind

Once a man I’d turned to drifting sand hangin’ on the wind as it blows through town, blowin’ dusty brown onward, onward bound, without smile or frown but say a little prayer say a little memory for me ….from your blue heart .... you›d be mighty kind

Look up at night towards the star light there’s where I’ll be shining bright, dream light sharin’ with you that miracle sight I’ll be a little memory a little prayer from me …..for your pure heart ....I’ve nothin› but time you see

Glacier

by Shaina Melin So much has changed this year.

I dreamt about my bones cracking And from within, flower buds grew I sat on top of a mountain in the sun As a giant stretched over the cliff face, growing flowers And watched a cool blue ice take over the city. People laid down and gave up until they were all just a part of the glacier.

I did nothing but continue to dream as I sat Until a sadness drove me to step up and away. But as I walked over the sunlit spots on the glacier, my skin fell like dirt, my bones to pieces, and the flowers of me covered the ice of you.

The River Skwentna Written by Tom Payton ~1975 As the mighty glacier river flows swiftly by, one may hear the great Bald Eagle's cry...

As he sets his plumage sails and soars away from his lofty advantage point.

How majestic and bold, but cautiously cunning and keen...

Perhaps this may be the most memorable sight one has seen.

Farther west and upriver, beaching near a salmon spawning stream...

There's bear tracks a plenty...of big, and small...

Walking quietly...I gulp! One gigantic bear paw!

Listening and watching in a clearing to my left, slowly arose the powerful golden bear...

The most impressive of them all.

Happy One-Hundredth Birthday

By Ann Lyons

It matters not the color of hair Or that it’s gray, Red, black or blonde

It matters not that your face is smooth Or that it shows Wrinkles of time It matters not if you are single Or that you’re wed Maybe widow’d It matters not that it was at home Or far away That you worked

Many miles you can travel, and not see such a bear...

But the forest is abundant, and such is not rare.

It matters not that you have one child Or that you have A whole house full

These sights I do marvel, and wondrously witness...

But there's one sight standing out...above and beyond the rest!

God's most magnificent creature, like you and I...one of his many sons here does dwell...

On the banks of the River Skwentna, in a clearing on a hill.

It matters not the babe’s in your arms Or that the child Is now all grown

Joe Delia is his name...and giving Wisdom, Friendship, and Love is his fame.

It matters not, carnations of red Or that honor’s Bestowed in white.

I've never been in a more kinder place...

Of clean spruce log walls...and a beautiful warm Christian face...

If you are as fortunate...to be a friend with Joe...

You could never forget his hospitality...

And his gentle heart...so aglow.

It matters not, the jewelry or cards Or reverence Paid with flowers

This poem was submitted to by Tom Paytom, who wrote it in 1975 about Joe Delia. He passed away May 1st. in Anchorage at 84, and on Sunday the 18th of May the Iditarod headquarters is hosting a Celebration of Joe’s life at 1:30 pm.

A Short Road

by Nan Potts When the road gets too rough, can we stumble.

When the trail gets too steep, may we fall.

If our trail tends to cause us to tumble, What we do next is truly our call.

For, if life overtakes us with hardships And we and toss in our torn, bloodied towel, Our demise may beget slips of ethics And succumbing, be hopelessly foul.

It matters not, your birthday be May Or that any month Could be chosen It matters not; it’s one hundred years Or that it was Proclamation It matters most just to let you know Adoration For you abounds Happy Mother’s Day This year we celebrate one hundred years since President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May as a day to honor motherhood. A 1$ coin has been approved by congress to celebrate the centennial and should be released this year.

PAGE 31

Alaska Concealed Handgun Permit Class Wednesday, Jun 18 6:00p to 9:30p Wasilla Area Senior Center - WASI Wasilla - Price $199.00 Age Suitability 21 and up

Birchtree Summer Arts Camp Mon, June 9 - Friday June 13 9am-1pm Birchtree Charter School 1707 East Palmer Wasilla Highway $125 - 907-232-0660 www.birchtreecharterschool.org

Father’s Day Dinner Friday, June 13, 2014 - 5:30pm Father’s Day Dinner & Silent Auction Mid-Valley Senior Center in Houston $10.00 - 892-6114 Mid-Valley Seniors, Inc.

Why Not Tri? Kids’ Triathalon - swim, bike, run.

June 14, 2014 Wasilla Pool Whynottriwasilla.net

Bag Lady Sue Music At Eagle Hotel June 21 - Lulu Small opens $15 in advance, $20 at the door Available at Eagle Lounge, Palmer www.bagladysue.com - 8 pm Cruising with the Painted Ladies 6 Woman Art Show Town Square Art Gallery Saturday, June 28, 4-7pm FREE - 907-376-0123 townsquareartgallery.com

Stories from the Silk Road Saturday, June 14th starting at 7:00 Gaia Tribal Belly Dance Presents an evening of dance music food and libations.

Tickets area available at www.gaiatribal.com

33rd Annual Alaska Scottish Highland Games Saturday, June 28th Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer.

Tickets are available at Celtic Treasures, The Bookshelf, or at the gate.

PROGRAMS for KIDS HERE!

373-2698 www.MakeASceneAK.com

Peters Creek Farmers Market & Crafts

Starts in June Thursdays 3pm – 8pm Chugiak: American Legion Post 33 (21643 Old Glenn Hwy) Contact: Susan Boarland & American Legion Post 33 907-688-4396

Downtown Market & Festival

May 10 - September 7 Sat. & Sun. 10am - 6pm Anchorage: 3rd Avenue Between C & E Streets Dana Reese 907-272-5634 www.anchoragemarkets.com info@anchoragemarkets.com

SPENARD FARMERS MARKET

May 17 – September 27 Saturdays 9am - 2pm Anchorage: 2555 Spenard Rd 907-563-6273 www.spenardfarmersmarket.org spenardfarmersmarket@gmail.com

SOUTH ANCHORAGE WEDNESDAY MARKET

May 14 – October 8 Wednesdays 10am - 4pm 600 E Dimond Blvd 907-354-5833 safm.org amkeyes@mtaonline.net

May 2014

ADVERTISE YOUR SUMMER

FARMERS MARKETS www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

5th Annual Funny River Bluegrass Festival July 11-13 - All day Mile 96.1 on Sterling Hwy, Left on Funny River Rd., 16.5 miles up Funny River Rd., Right on Lake Rd., Follow Signs - Drive Slow! $50.00

Still Kickin’ Asphalt Community Walk June 14, 2014 - 9:30am Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center Free 907-688-2676 www.chugiak.org

Art

Cruising with the

Painted

Ladies

By Janet St. George

What do you get when artists set sail to Alaska with their palettes and brushes?

Amazing plein air artwork depicting the rugged Alaskan landscape, seascapes, wildlife, historic towns and its rich culture!

From her first years, it was evident that Karen Whitworth had a special connection with art.

Born in Oregon, Karen devoted countless hours in her early years to drawing on any piece of paper she could get her hands on.

At the age of 8 she moved to Alaska and was exposed to a new, raw, and inspiring beauty that encouraged her love for art and nature. During the 20 years she spent in Alaska, the landscape and the animals that resided in it were a constant source of inspiration for her many paintings.

Her original paintings and prints can be found in collections around the world and featured in several US galleries. She now lives in Washington where she continues to explore and be inspired by nature.

As far back as she can remember, Kristy Tracy has been an artist. After earning her BFA from the University of Colorado, she worked as a craft designer in her home town of Memphis, Tennessee.

In 1989 she moved to the Matanuska-Susitna Valley where she found ample inspiration to pursue her whimsical style of colorful paintings and illustrations. Kristy likes working with a variety of media, including watercolor, acrylic, pen & ink, and most recently, oils.

After 22 wonderful years in Alaska, Kristy relocated to Prescott, Arizona where she continues to pursue her passion for painting. Her work is in public and private collections from Alaska to Germany.

After their cruise, the Painted Ladies and nationally acclaimed art instructors will be showing off their artistic creations for special 6 woman art show, “Cruising with the Painted Ladies” at Town Square Art Gallery in the Carrs Wasilla Mall on Saturday, June 28th from 4 to 7 pm.

The Painted Ladies formed in the Valley to inspire and encourage creativity to further their art careers. Life changes and time has led the Ladies to live in various states outside of Alaska.

They banded together to cruise up to Alaska and invited other artists and instructors as they sail, party and paint their way back to their former homes.

Four of the Painted Ladies, Karen Whitworth, Talya Johnson, Kristi Tracy and Karen Mattson, will be joined by two nationally renowned instructors, Sandra Strohschein and Jennifer Bowman, as they share their visions of Alaska with the public.

> Winter Warmth, By Karen Whitworth

> Fall Raven, By Kristy Tracy

Karen Mattson’s interest in art began at a very young age after she visited the National Art Museum in Washington D.C. It sparked a lifelong journey into the discovery of making art beginning with oils.

The excitement, challenges, spontaneity and surprises of watercolor invigorate her.

Her works are in several corporate and institutional buildings in Alaska and in private collections throughout the country. Karen is what we call a snowbird…living in Willow mostly during the summer and wintering “outside.”

She’s influenced by the light, color and brushwork of the impressionists; as well as the depth, luminosity and draftsmanship of the old masters.

Her passionate, colorful works can be found in numerous private collections throughout the globe.

> Fruit of the Vine, By Tayla Johnson

Sandra Strohschein is an award-winning artist and instructor from Michigan who is known for her dynamic impressionistic paintings.

Her loose and atmospheric painting style has been developed by an amazing 10,000 + hours of painting over a four year period supplemented by personal instruction from the modern masters.

Her approach to watercolor is to achieve maximum impact with as few brush strokes as possible, with an emphasis on strong value contrasts. Sandra’s professional affiliations include a sustaining membership in the American Watercolor Society and enjoys sales both nationally and internationally.

> Seagul, By Sandra Strohschein

continues on

May 2014

“The Painted Ladies formed in the Valley to inspire and encourage creativity to further their art careers. Life changes and time has led the Ladies to live in various states outside of Alaska.” > Waddles, By Karen Mattson

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Her goal is to capture patterns of light with lively colors, and to realistically portray feelings of her love of beauty to the viewer. Karen is a signature member of the Alaska Watercolor Society and Alaska Artist Guild.

Israeli born, Talya Johnson, has settled comfortably in the Pacific Northwest where she is raising her family. Her art career began in the graphic arts, and she has spent the last seven years using those skills and experience in fine art painting and portraiture.

PAGE 33

Art

Art

Cruising with the Painted

Ladies

continued

Jennifer Bowman is no stranger to Alaska or Town Square Art Gallery. This will be her third show in Wasilla and she often visits to give art classes.

Her vibrant bold canvases sizzle with energy and life, a true reflection of her personality.

Jennifer is a third generation artist living in the San Juan Islands and her work can be found in both private and corporate collections locally and international, including France, the Netherlands…and on multiple beer and wine labels!

Music

TRAPPER CREEK

BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

MUSICAL GUESTS

Animal Eyes, Orion Donicht, Eddy Lee, Sabe Herdez Flores, Spank Williams, Skyler Fell, Justin Boot & The God Damn Ranch Hand Band, Green Tara, The Goat Rodeo, The Shoot Dangs, Cody Richardson, Paige Compton, Blacklist Picnic, P.J. Franco & the Burnouts, Isaac Paris, Jepheries, Annie Where the Sun Don't Shine, Backwoods Revolution, RnR Reggae, Avery Wolves, Daniel Firmin, Ukelele Russ & the Parks Highway Band, Andrew Edward Morris, Sean White, Dumb Crow, Emi, Kat Moore, Grover Neely, Blackwater Railroad Company, Shadik n Co. Alex Shaw.

> Pioneer Moonrise, By Jennifer Bowman Cruise on in with your friends to Town Square Art Gallery Saturday, June 28th from 4-7 to join the after cruise art party, meet the infamous Painted Ladies, artists/instructors and enjoy wine and small bites.

> For more information www.townsquareartgallery.com or call 907.376.0123.

COUNTRY UP-AND-COMER

PAGE 35

Music

JOINS 2014 fair line-up

> Brett Eldredge Wednesday, August 27, 7pm. > Seether, August 22

> Thompson Square, August 23

> Tesla, August 26

The Stars of Duck Dynasty and Brett Eldredge join the five previously announced 2014 AT&T Concert Series entertainers.

In-depth entertainer information, including ticket prices, bios, photos and performance samples, is available on the Fair website, alaskastatefair.org.

Tickets for Seether, Thompson Square, TESLA, Three Days Grace

Online at alaskastatefair.org and print at home. Convenience fees apply, and Fair admission is additional.

Via mobile phone. The Fair’s online sales process is now compatible with mobile phones, so concert-goers can purchase tickets from their phone just as easily as from their computer!

Convenience fees apply, and Fair admission is additional.

The Kendall Toyota Borealis Box Office during the Fair. (No convenience fees at the box office.

Fair admission additional.)

Concertgoers can be sure to get the best seats before they sell out by becoming a Fair member. Fair members can reserve tickets early, before they go on sale to the general public. Plus, members receive an invitation – including Fair admission for two and a parking permit – to attend the Director’s Reception on Thursday, August 21.

An annual membership is $25, and the membership form is available online at alaskastatefair.org.

The Fair is in the process of confirming the rest of the 2014 concert line-up, and announcements will be posted on the Fair blog, Facebook page and website. Fairgoers can also sign up to receive email or mobile concert updates on the Fair website.

> For more information, please go to alaskastatefair.org

May 2014

> Three Days Grace, August 29

Once known as the little kid with a big voice, this singer, songwriter and self-taught guitarist is now one of country’s hottest up-and-comers, with the single “Don’t Ya” climbing the charts and a debut album on the way.

and Pentatonix are currently on sale to the general public. Tickets to the two newly announced shows will be on sale to the general public at noon on Friday, May 2. There are three easy ways to buy:

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Submitted By Alaska State Fair