Make A Scene Magazine September 2014

MAGAZINE

EARTH ART MATANUSKA FOUND ART PROJECT AT THE PALMER MUSEUM page 28

PAGE 3

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com AUG 2014

Art A happy Eskimo child hides in the closet peeking out from under her mother’s parka, a Native dancer moving to the century-old music of a walrus drum or a hot tub full of friends on a snowy winter evening are just a few of the images Barbara Lavallee has offered in her popular watercolors.

Meet the artist Saturday, October 25th at Town Square Art Gallery from 1-4 pm and enjoy her new print releases and new book, “The Best of Barbara.”

Her book features more than 65 of her favorite art images spanning over 4 decades.

Barbara, a native of Davenport, Iowa, grew up in Wisconsin and received a degree in art from Illinois Wesleyan University. After teaching art in Arizona on a Navajo Indian Reservation, she took a position at Mount Edgecumbe native school in Sitka, Alaska in 1970. Now living in Anchorage, Barbara paints prolifically with many originals reproduced into limited edition prints. In addition, she has also become nationally known as an illustrator of children’s books.

Barbara is known for her happy people. People working, playing and living with smiles on their faces.

Her watercolors portray whimsical,

stylized characters in vibrant colors reflecting her interest in people. “I prefer to portray the magnificence of man... his joy and humor, his tenacity, his ability to overcome,” she says. A single mother, Barbara credits her two sons with adding immensely to the wealth of experiences and memories from which she derives a lot of the humor found in her characters. “They also shared the roller coaster ride of Mom making a living as a freelance artist.”

Barbara can’t imagine her life without painting. “I want people to have fun. If people look and smile, then I feel the art is a success.”

Barbara will be signing her new book as well as her many popular children’s books, 2015 calendars and art prints at Town Square Art Gallery located in the Carrs Wasilla Mall.

> Refreshments will be served.

Children are invited and welcomed!

For more information please call 907.376.0123 or visit www. townsquareartgallery.com.

INTERESTED IN THEATRE? CALL VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS @ 373-0195

Anastasia – A Review

By Stephen Warta

The timeless story of Anastasia returns once again to our mind as the drama unfolds on Valley Performing Art’s (VPA) stage. Anastasia serves as a spectacular opener to VPA’s 39th season. Under the sure hand of veteran VPA Director, Grant Olson, the entire play proceeds seamlessly, captivating the audience and drawing them back into the mid-1900s, about 10 years after the Bolsheviks murdered the Romanov family.

The play follows the actions of a trio composed of a banker, prince, and artist, who are trying to cash in on the fortune that Czar Nicholas II left upon his death. The method adopted by the trio in order to secure the money is to produce an heir to that fortune, namely Princess Anastasia.

The leader of the trio is “Prince Bounine”, an exiled Russian prince turned taxi driver who is desperately looking for a way to gain the fortune through fair or foul means.

During the hunt for Anastasia, their money sources threaten to dry up, so the trio is forced to select an unlikely candidate to present as Anastasia, whom they know is not the real princess. In order for them to gain access to the fortune and for the con to be successful, the grandmother of Princess Anastasia must endorse the purported princess. However, as the story progresses, the trio begin to wonder if they actually found the real princess after all.

Director Olson’s entire cast does a superb job. The four primary actors are veterans and effectively embody their roles without missing a beat. Stephen O’Brien plays “Chernov” the banker, Ted Carney plays “Bounine” the prince, Thomas Jacobs plays “Petrovin” the artists, and Birgit Hietala plays “Anna”, aka Anastasia. All four of them spend a large amount of time on stage and have many lines, which are produced nearly flawlessly with the accompanying actions.

The play keeps the audience’s attention the entire time. There are only three different scenes in the entire show, which are broken up with intermissions between them, so the audience does not lose any of play’s moods while sitting in the dark waiting for people to more or less clumsily run around and shuffle stage props. Additionally, it is nice to see the normal flow of a play switched up occasionally, which makes the lack of in-show set changes even more appealing. The costumes and set are historically accurate, which also enhances the play. The accompanying music and lights are flawless, supporting the mood of the play and helping to bring the audience back to 1926.

Anastasia runs through September 28th, playing at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 p.m. on Sundays at the Valley Performing Arts Theatre, 251 W. Swanson Avenue., in Wasilla.

PAGE 6 www. MAKEASCENEAK .com AUG 2014

Community

Local Valley Resident Beats All Odds with Toastmasters Angela Ritchey Tells Us How Toastmasters Has Changed Her Life.

Angela is a long-time resident of Alaska and has spent the last 8 years of her life living in the Matanuska Valley. She has dedicated herself to improving herself by having an active part in Toastmasters.

When asked “what prompted you to join Toastmasters?” she responded “my boss.” Her work performance was excellent but there was always a comment about her communication skills on each job evaluation. Though excellent in her job, her shyness and difficulty in communicating was holding her back. This led to her taking that leap and joining Toastmasters.

Her only perception of Toastmasters was that it involved public speaking.

She did not know what to expect when she came to that first meeting but states that she was pleasantly surprised to find that Toastmasters was much more than she imagined; it was a different format than she had envisioned and the club was very supportive and friendly.

When asked what she hoped to gain from joining Toastmasters, she expressed “I thought I would aim to get over my fear of speaking in public groups but I gained far more than that.” I gained self-confidence.

Angela stated, “I was always shy and more comfortable working in the background and now I feel comfortable speaking before a group of people who I have never met in

my life.” Angela also reports that she is comfortable speaking to those who she knows, even when they are considered high ranking officials.

She added that “this is a tremendous accomplishment for me.”

Ms. Ritchey explains that “if I knew then what I know now, I would have joined Toastmasters much earlier.”

Angela has pushed her comfort zone in even more ways. She has filled positions of responsibility, such as Club President, VP of Education, among other roles both at the club level and at the district level. She said she has learned a lot in both positions and it helps her to push herself out of her “shell” and comfort zone. Angela expressed that “I can never go back to it nor do I WANT TO. I have learned to be comfortable and confident in the positions I have filled.” She further explained that her goal in serving as an officer, “on a personal level, is to refine my leadership skills and getting comfortable meeting people, learning how to serve people and seeking their best interest.” She has done this expertly.

When asked, “How was it, to give that very first speech?” She quickly replied, “I was terrified. I thought I was going to die on the spot, with my heart racing and knew it would rip out of my chest. Afterwards, I felt relieved and felt a sense of accomplishment.” She explains that now, “at times I still have

butterflies in my stomach but I know that I can quickly control them. I am comfortable in ‘ad libing’ and responding to questions.”

In Toastmasters there are certain levels of accomplishment, in Leadership and in Communication, as laid out by Toastmasters International. Angela has one more requirement to finish the highest education level.

While working on this, she is completing all of the manuals and is going back and reworking the basic manuals to perfect her skills. The next level when she completes the last requirement towards Leadership is the DTM, Distinguished Toastmaster. Comparatively few reach this level in Toastmasters.

When Angela was asked “what advice do you have for others

who find themselves lacking selfconfidence, finding it hard to communicate to a group of people and/or having difficulty filling a Leadership role?” her ready response was, “the best advice I can give is to join Toastmasters and learn these skills in a safe and friendly environment. Throughout the years I have seen people’s lives transform for the better. The decision to join Toastmasters is one you won’t regret!”

Angela Richey has been a part of Matsu Toastmasters in Wasilla, meeting every Tuesday morning, for 8 years. We congratulate her for her courage and perseverance; we are thankful for the encouragement and example she is to each of us who are privileged to know her and be a part of Toastmasters with her.

7

BEING SICK AND TIRED? Hi, my name is Lenny Haberman, from Palmer.

PAGE 7

MAKE A SCENE

ARE YOU SICK AND TIRED OF

“When I was introduced to the water I felt a difference in my body quite quickly, it seemed my mental clarity was improved. Then the next day I went through a detox which Wayne warned me of (headache & extra visit to the toilet). The third day I was feeling on top of the world I was smiling more than normal and had so much energy!

Bryce Burkhart Graphic Design Make A Scene Magazine, The People’s Paper Direct: 907-315-6661 Office: 907-373-2698 Fax: 888-383-9909 makeasceneak@mac.com www.makeasceneak.com ..........................

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!

OH! P.S. Pretty impressive what it has done for my animals.

Try alkaline water, FREE, for 21 days!

The H20 Guy 5901 Mayflower Ct., Wasilla Alaska Located off the Palmer Wasilla Hwy. Just past Valley Business Machines.

CALL WAYNE AT 232-9088

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Joshua Fryfogle Owner/Publisher Make A Scene Magazine, The People’s Paper Direct: 907-373-2698 www.MakeASceneAK.com MakeASceneAK@mac.com

I notice my blood sugar going down and now I’m off my insulin pills. I can now eat Italian food again, because I don’t seemed to be bothered with acid reflux any longer. Is pizza Italian? Yes, I can eat that now too! Oh, how about this: I lost 20 lbs the first month. I saw the value of this technology and put a down payment on a machine and then sent one to my mother in Hawaii.

Unbelievable testimony what it has done for her! So I still get water from Wayne till I get moms machine payed off and then I will get my own.”

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

Submitting Articles & Calendar: To submit content for print, visit our website:

Ak.com

Deadline is the 10th of each month.

Submissions are not accepted via Facebook.

AUG 2014

www.MakeAScene

PAGE 8

Entertainment

MURDER MYSTERY PARTY AT LAKE LUCILLE INN October 25th is a Murder Mystery Dinner Party at Lake Lucille Inn called Malice in Wonderland! Tickets are coming soon,

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

and costumes are Alice in Wonderland gone Steampunk!

Tickets are $75 each or a couple for $125 and it starts at 6pm‌don’t be late for this very important date!

Top Drawer Art Show Fundraiser Saturday, October 11

Benefit for Mid-Valley Senior Center

Bone Breaker Haunt

(the name may change, but the level of fun won't!)

At Top Drawer~in the Meadowood Mall at the corner of Parks and Big Lake Road. Contact The Mid-Valley Senior Center at 892-6114 for more information.

October 24, 25, 6pm til 10pm October 31 and November 1, 6pm til midnight By the West Lakes and Houston Fire Departments At Top Drawer~in the Meadowood Mall at the

Twenty artists will show their work. Each will donate a

corner of Parks and Big Lake Road.

piece for auction to raise funds, and there will also be

AUG 2014

a "quick-draw" where artists will be given a canvas and

A scary good time for all ages, free of charge

an hour to produce a piece of art. You can watch them

(donations appreciated). Halloween weekend trick-

paint, then bid on the painting. Join the "Top Drawer Art

or-treat with the merchants at the mall 6pm til

Hunt," find all the pieces, and you will be awarded a gift certificate to spend at Top Drawer.

9 pm, balloon characters, hair painting and lots more old-time family Halloween fun.

MYHouse Calendar of Events

PAGE 9

WWW.myhousematsu.org

> September 12th, Friday night at 7pm is a Going Away Party for

Joe Hartman of Matanuska Music. Joe has hosted our Friday Night Live events for the past year and is a regular patron of our Café, and, sadly, is moving out of State. Bon Voyage Joe!

> September 13th Saturday, Gathering Grounds Book Club meets at 10am and will discuss the books for July and August, including The Boys in the Boat by Laura Hillenbrand and Anne Tylers Dinner at the Homesick Café. All are welcome. > September 26, Friday MY House Drop in Center One Year

Anniversary Celebration, 10am-1pm with a Wells Fargo Grant

presentation and special recognition at Noon! Come and celebrate with us.

with the Friends of Palmer Golf Course! Bragging Rights for the whole year!! Entry Deadline 9/26/2014. Call Monica MarPalmer Golf Course: check in at 10am, Putting Contest at 10am, Shotgun start at 11am. $125 per person or $500 per foursome.

> October 11th is the Rotary Uncorked event, 6pm at the Menard

Center! This is the premiere food and wine tasting event of the year, and a "who’s who" of guests. Tickets available at the Gathering Grounds Café (300 North Willow in downtown Wasilla), Town Square Art Gallery or from your local Rotarian. Last year this event sold out do don’t delay getting tickets!

> October 25th is a Murder Mystery Dinner Party at Lake Lucille Inn called Malice in Wonderland, sponsored by the Brianna Gregory Foundation! Tickets are coming soon, and costumes are Alice in Wonderland gone Steampunk! Tickets are $65 each or a couple for $120 and it starts at 6pm…don’t be late for this very important date! Tickets available at Neils Lock and Safe and Gathering Grounds Cafe.

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

> September 27, Saturday 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament

> November 14th is the Second Annual KMBQ Radio Marathon!

6am-7pm the radio will be broadcasting from MY House central and asking for donations to match what we hope will be a $30,000 challenge.

We are so thankful to KMBQ and really want to make this a fun and exciting day, celebrating all of YOU who helped make it such an amazing year!

AUG 2014

PAGE 10

Thoughtful

Be the bright star in your future.

What if you knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that your life makes perfect sense?

AUG 2014

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

By Antiqua Lisha Libbey What if you knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that your life makes perfect sense?

I adore the song by Jewel You Are What You Are. In it she sings “A star is a star, it doesn’t have to try to shine…

You already are, what you are. And what you are is beautiful.”

We all have been created perfectly with divine intention, which means we don’t need to change or refine or even overcome a crappy past to be totally awesome. That perfection has already been made. To live it is our birthright.

With this truth in mind let’s change our perspective a bit; instead of trying to reach some ideal state in order to be the star and reach our highest of heights. What if you started living as if you already have and are everything you desire to be?

Remembering who we truly are: your ideal body and health, success, talents, and utilize the gifts you already have refined in your very being to shine

Here are 4 ways you can cut to the chase and remember... You are perfectly made. > Step 1) Write a list of all the ways you are telling

yourself you aren’t measuring up: the shoulda, woulda, excuses, if only… and the lingering guilt that cuts you to the core of disbelief.

> Step 2) Look at this list and one by one go through each thing say out loud. “I forgive myself, my maker and any and all other parties involved in these old limiting beliefs and stories running and let it go forever now.” Forgiveness is the key to creating space for you to fully remember who you truly are.

> Step 3) Now, look at it again and cross out

anything and everything that happened yesterday that is over and as you do confirm within yourself: I survived and it’s in the past. I let it go. Then cross out anyone else’s shoulda, coulda’s that made it on your list. These are typically ways other people want you to be, but inside yourself it’s a struggle to be that way.

Again let it go.

> Step 4) HERE IS YOUR POWER!! Write another

list of all the ways you ROCK!! List your talents, your strengths, your best personality traits and yes even your best body parts (we all have at least one.)

Use this list everyday, read it for the next 12 days (at least), meditate on it, and remember how awesome you already are. There is nothing you need to change or do to be the shining star you already are.

The Mat-Su Community Chorus

welcomes a new director

The Mat-Su Community Chorus welcomes a new director. Anna Crowther will be conducting the chorus this year. Anna, originally from Aurora Colorado is a graduate of Adams State College with a Bachelor's degree in Music education.

She has taught music at the Middle School level for several years and now teaches piano out of her home which she share with her husband, 4 children a dog and a cat.

Benefit Concert for Radio Free Palmer

PAGE 11

Music

Sassafras will perform one night, Saturday, October 18 at 7 pm at Vagabond Blues. An Anchorage folk-rock band, Sassafras is the new incarnation of Red Hot Llamas.

Palmer-grown Lee Bolling is lead guitarist. Tickets will be $20 each and available in October. Check radiofreepalmer.org for details.

> Radio Free Palmer will also have a one-day pledge drive on Saturday October 18

from 9-5. Help raise funds to move our studio down the street beside Fireside Books in January.

The chorus is open to any adult who loves to sing. Our first rehersal will be on Thursday September 4th in the music room at Wasilla High School from 7:00 PM-9:00PM.

> If you just love listen to great live music, our

Christmas Concert will be December 7 th at 4:00PM at St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer.

BONE COLLECTORS at BISTRO RED BEET

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

As the “ambassadors of music in the Valley we are anticipating a wonderful musical season.

5031 e. Mayflower lane, Wasilla 16 September – 7pm

Bone Collectors is a collaboration of Alaskan songwriter and poet Tom Begich and Massachusetts poet Timothy Mason. Both artists are accomplished in poem and song, collectively creating vivid new work which transports their listeners with a seamless resonating sound.

Wednesday night’s performance is Begich’s third appearance at Bistro Red Beet and Mason’s first. This will be a must-attend evening for those seeking a wholly original sound that is both thought provoking and interesting to the ear.

AUG 2014

Master word-workers with an easy stage presence, they deliver a powerful performance of beautiful imagery and compelling authenticity traveling across time.

PAGE 12

Special Days Wasilla Library Building Committee Meeting Wasilla City Council Chambers, 290 E Herning Avenue, Wasilla, AK 99654 Wednesday, October 1, 2014 @ 4:30pm FREE KJ Martin-Albright 907-376-5913 or www.cityofwasilla.com/library

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Certified Food Protection Manager Training Wednesday, October 1, 9 am to 5 pm At UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm, Room 208 Kertulla Hall and video conferenced to sites around the state Contact Julie at 745-3677 for more information The Mysterious Fayum Portraits October 8th 5:30 – 7:30 Lecture and Slide Show Given by Judy Vars Dorothy Page Museum 323 N, Main Street, Wasilla Friday at the Farm: Celebrate National 4-H Week 2014 Friday October 10, 6-8:30 p.m.

UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm, Room 208 Kertulla Hall.

Join the Mat Su/Copper River 4-H District in an Open House to celebrate 112 years of 4-H! Learn about 4-H clubs, publications, National 4-H Science Day activity and more!

Contact Lee at 745-3360 for further information.

Palmer Contra Dances Sat, October 11 and Sat, October 25 7pm-9:30pm Palmer Salvation Army Community Center 209 W Evergreen St $6.00

AUG 2014

The Three Musketeers Fri, October 17 7pm-8:30pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 West 6th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501 $10-15 www.centertix.net, 907-263-ARTS 907-338-4901 www.alaskatheatreofyouth.org Process Meat in Jars Saturday, October 18, 2014, 1-4 pm UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm, Room 208 Kertulla Hall Learn to use a pressure canner to process meat and vegetables in this hands-on class. Cost $15. Call 745-3360 to register.

Making Fresh Sausage Saturday, October 18, 2014, 10 am to noon UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm, Room 208 Kertulla Hall In this hands on class learn strategies for making fresh sausages like breakfast links, Italian sausages and more.

Cost $15. Call 745-3360 to register.

Disney's Beauty & the Beast Jr Sat, October 18 2pm-3:30pm & 7pm-8:30pm Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 621 West 6th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501 $10-15 www.centertix.net, 907-263-ARTS Alaska Theatre of Youth 907-338-4901 www.alaskatheatreofyouth.org Home Energy: It's Your Home, Your Money!

6-7pm, October 28th UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm, Mess Hall With all of the everyday items we depend on that provide heat and light, many families may be using more electricity than necessary.

A home electricity audit is a systematic survey of any home; it can cut electric bills, help families cope with fluctuating energy prices and reduce the environmental impact of electricity production.

This discussion explores ways to conserve electricity and lower your electric bills without harshly impacting your daily living routine.

Call 745-3360 to register Building Radon Out: The Alaska Experience 7:30-8:30pm October 28th UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm, Mess Hall Radon (which may contribute to lung cancer) is a serious danger in Alaska and a concern of the EPA. Understanding where radon comes from, how to detect it and how to take care of it, if found, are important in maintaining healthy air quality in your home. Even better is the correct preparing your foundation when building, as contractor or new construction resident.

This discussion and feature short film by Cold Climate Housing Resource Center looks at the materials, methods and overall investment cost when building Radon resistant construction.

Call 745-3360 to register

Community

HAIRSTYLISTS FOR HUMANITY

On August 2nd Perfect Look Salon held a fundraiser for the Mat Su Animal Shelter called Hairstylists For Humanity, Hairdressers coming together to support their local community. > With help from the shelter, volunteers and many local businesses, Hairstylists For Humanity raised $1950!

We would like to thank everyone involved and all those who supported us in our fun filled evening including a spaghetti dinner, baked goods and silent auction, dance performance

by Sahara Storm Productions and of course an animal themed runway walk

by Perfect Look.

>

Thank you to our sponsors

AK Nails, Wal-Mart, Sahara Storm Productions, NIT, Younique Boutique, By The Spirit Photography, Body Piercing Unlimited, Sugar High, Seven North, The Tanning Hut, Tammy Smith Photography The shelter volunteers, Sue our shelter volunteer coordinator, all our wonderful models, MaryLynn on spaghetti, Anthony Robinson on mic and of course the wonderful ladies at Perfect Look. Keep updated on future fundraising events by liking us on facebook, https://www.facebook.com/ PerfectLookSalonWasilla Published Photos by Tammy Smith Photography

Music

A CAPELLA FESTIVELLA 21 The UAA Concert Board is proud to present A Cappella Festivella 21 featuring The Filharmonic and Fermata Nowhere, Thursday October 9, 7:30 PM at the Williamson Auditorium.

ANCHORAGE, AK – The Filharmonic’s formation in Los Angeles started as friendly chance encounters at singing competitions eventually solidified into a harmonious group as the boys discovered their shared genuine chemistry, unparalleled love of music, and undeniable musical talents.

Tickets become available Friday September 12, 2014 at www.uaatix.com.

Only UAA students (3+ credits) can use UAA student tickets. There is a limit of two UAA student tickets at time of purchase. Current UAA student ID must be presented at time of purchase and at the door.

The Filharmonic, featured at the 2014 A Capella Festivella

>

Through social network and a strong kinship to their Filipino culture they have found their niche in the musical community.

classical, etc. Together they honor their Filipino heritage through incredibly nuanced musical performances that are both moving and fun to experience.

Though their passion for great music is on par, their combined talents come from a wide variety of backgrounds in the performing arts industry, including pop, a cappella, jazz, opera, theater,

Returning to A Cappella Festivella is one of our most loved groups Fermata Nowhere! Formed in 2001, Fermata Nowhere has taken the a cappella music world by storm to emerge as

one of the nation's top collegiate men's vocal ensembles. Coming literally from "out of nowhere," these talented singers soared to instant popularity, having won multiple awards during their existence.

Tickets are $5 advance/$10 door for UAA students, $15 advance/$20 door for UAA staff, faculty, and alumni, & youth (under 17), and $20 advance/$25 door for general public.

Literature

ALASKAN AUTHOR BEGINS

GOLD RUSH SERIES Lynn Lovegreen of Anchorage, Alaska, announces the release of her latest young adult historical romance, Quicksilver to Gold, August 21, 2014, by Prism Book Group, Pennsylvania.

> This is the third of a series;

Worth Her Weight in Gold and Fools Gold were released in 2013 and 2014.

Thieves took their claims… Now she wants to steal his heart. Gold mining is in Jeannie Kelly’s blood. But it’s a dangerous time to be an honest miner in Nome, Alaska—claim jumpers have invaded the territory.

Jeannie has set her sights on Clint Tilghman, the strong, quiet man next door to her family’s claim.

Clint fights his feelings for the impulsive lady miner, fearing he’ll lose his independence. Jeannie tries to change her tomboyish ways to attract Clint and gain respect from others, but there’s a lot to learn amidst gunplay and bar fights.

Jeannie must woo Clint and beat the claim jumpers before summer’s end.

>

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lynn Lovegreen was lucky enough to grow up in Alaska. Her family was stationed at Fort Richardson (now JBER) when she was six, and they fell in love with the place.

Alaska’s been home ever since.

She’s always felt the power of words; she taught English for 20 years before retiring to make more time for writing.

When not writing, she loves to spend time with family and friends, read, travel, and shoot at targets with her cowboy action shooting club, the Alaska 49ers. She is an active member of local history and writing groups, and is currently the coordinator for 49 Alaska Writing Center’s Anchorage Remembers project and the Anchorage Public Library’s Teen Journalist program.

Lovegreen’s clean young adult historical romances are set in the Alaska Gold Rush, a great time for drama, romance, and independent characters who made their own way in the world.

See her website at www.lynnlovegreen.com You can also find her on Facebook and Pinterest.

Picture Perfect: Our Stay-cat

By Josh Fryfogle Last month my Mother came to visit. I wanted to do something nice for her while she was here – something Alaskan!

Coming from Mississippi, a place with a beauty all it’s own, I knew she would appreciate being able to spend time with her grandsons in a place that captured the most picturesque Alaska…

Many come to Alaska with some expectation of igloos and polar bears. Instead, they are surprised, and maybe a little comforted, by familiar fast-food chains and super-stores.

As a Wasilla resident, I sometimes feel like my day-to-day life is anything but Alaskan, as I go about my routine. Working, shopping, raising kids.

So, I took my mother and sons to Big Lake, to the Sunset View Resort!

Not far from my own home in Wasilla, I declared ‘Stay-cation’ from my demanding profession and took my Mama to Alaska. We stayed in the Cedar House – one of the resort options at Sunset View.

It’s beautiful, and comfortable - really, really comfortable. Placed a stone’s throw from the lake, with a huge picture window stretching across that side of the house! Through the huge windows, we were treated to a magnificent view of the lake, of the mountains to which we owe our Valley, and in the distance, floating like a cloud… Denali.

The family size hot tub was a great way to enjoy the view, while my sons splashed about like the salmon in the nearby water.

“My goal was to give my mother and myself, a some precious memories, and we did. It was

cation Getaway at Sunset View Resort < In what seemed like

moments from my son Isaac first casting his line off the nearby pier, he caught a small lake trout!

Meanwhile, through those big picture windows, my mother and I watched the whole thing – his joy, his reward!

^ My son Seth didn’t catch anything, and he looked super-cool while doing so.

^ As a personal highlight to my stay-cation experience,

I had a birthday. Did I mention that there were balloons?

And streamers, and other stuff that mothers do?

^ In contrast to the instant access to Alaskan nature, I

helped the boys fillet their catch and cooked it up in the gourmet kitchen; completely set up, everything you might need to make delicious meals. For my mother and I, this was fitting.

She taught me to cook, and I still enjoy cooking as an adult - although it was nice that she took on the cooking duties while I splashed in the hot tub, paddleboated and fished with my sons.

along with my sons, a chance to create s emotional. It was picture perfect.”

I turned 36 years old on August 28. My mother made a birthday cake while I went to the movies with my two best friends – my sons - to see Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I might as well have been 12 years old again.

Overall, our experience at Sunset View Resort was exactly what our family needed. We didn’t need an Alaskan adventure. We needed an Alaskan getaway – and that’s what we got.

I’m so grateful to Kathy and Newell Glines, the down-toearth owners/operators of this swank resort. They were quick to respond to our requests, welcoming, and generally nice.

My goal was to give my mother and myself, along with my sons, a chance to create some precious memories, and we did. It was emotional. It was picture perfect.

Entertainment

Arkose Brewery Announces 3rd Year

Anniversary and New Employees Palmer, AK â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Locally owned Arkose Brewery announced today that it will be celebrating 3 years of business this coming Oct. 11 along with the hiring of two new employees to assist in the tasting room and production facility.

To celebrate 3 great years in Palmer, the anniversary debut of "Blue Skies Organic Ale" will be on Saturday, Oct. 11.

In addition, they are offering a very special "Beer Meets Chocolate" pairing event at the Brewery at 2 p.m. together with Jenny Bunker of JB Chocolatier in Palmer. Arkose is excited about the chocolate adorned with the Arkose logo and will have a drawing for prizes for those participating in the tasting.

There will also be a general drawing at 4 p.m. for anyone who enters their name during the day. Prizes will include Arkose beer swag and chocolates. To sign up for the tasting, please call 746-BEER (2337). Cost is $20 per person.

Later that evening, Arkose Brewery will be donating their beer to the Palmer Chamber of Commerce's Annual Auction Dinner and are looking forward to continuing their anniversary celebration by featuring Blue Skies Organic Ale. Arkose Brewery recently rearranged their modest tasting room to make a bit more room for you and your beer. The tasting room is open Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 8 p.m., Saturdays from Noon to 8 p.m. and

closed Sundays and Mondays. Patrons can enjoy a pint or flight of tasters and purchase Beer-To-Go in 64 oz. growlers. There is a free tour of the Brewery with Brewmaster Stephen Gerteisen every Tuesday at 6 p.m.

The most recent beer release at Arkose is a seasonal beer called "Festbier Dunkelweizen" which is a nod to their German heritage and the beginning of the beer festival season.

Festbier is a German style dark wheat beer and is refreshingly tingly and tasty. Other beers on tap include their flagship beers: Bitter Earth ESB, Steed Rye IPA, Boxcar Porter, and High Ridge Double Red.

Tasting room at Arkose Brewery

Arkose Brewery welcomes new employees Andy Dennis and Ryan Simmons, both of Palmer. Andy is a NOLS program supervisor and is an avid homebrewer, and Ryan is a decorated military veteran with excellent mechanical skills. Both bring unique talents that complement the current needs of the Brewery and Arkose is happy to have them part of the team.

> About Arkose Brewery

Arkose Brewery located at 650 E. Steel Loop in Palmer, opened its doors in 2011 and is owned by husband and wife team Stephen and June Gerteisen.

Stephen and June Gerteisen with a glass of Festbier Dunkelweizen.

It has enjoyed 3 years as an independent craft brewery selling directly to the public and donating to many festivals and community events. Arkose ales are distributed by Specialty Imports and may be found statewide at many fine establishments.

Learn more at arkosebrewery.com and follow them at www.facebook.com/ARKOSEBEER

Pictured from left to right: Andy Dennis, Ryan Simmons, and Stephen Gerteisen

The Sutton Library as Art!

PAGE 19

Entertainment

By Carmen Summerfield

Recently Librarian Nancy Bartels invited the Valley Arts Alliance to display art at the Sutton Public Library and Community Resource Center. These art pieces were created at Valley Arts Alliance events, such as the Wearable Art & Runway Fashion Show, the Raku Pottery Party, Art on Fire Iron Pour Art Fest, and the One-Tree Art Project.

But the biggest “Art Piece” is the building itself!

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

The Sutton Public Library and Community Resource Center is located adjacent to the Alpine Historical Park. The Alpine Historical Park is a open air historical park and museum located in Sutton at mile 61.6 of the Glenn Highway in the Matanuska Valley, Alaska.

The Alpine Historical Park provides a look back in time to understand the heritage and cultures of the early settlers of the Sutton and Chickaloon area. Exhibits include; The Sutton Post Office, the Athabascan Culture and Winter lodge, the Old Timers Hall of Fame, History of the Coal Mining Industry and Equipment, and the Construction of the Glenn Highway.

To fit the new Sutton Public Library and Community Resource Center into the surroundings of the Alpine Historical Park, the design team at Architects Alaska based their design on a coal washing facility that was in the area in the 1920’s. The project encompassed over ten years of planning and fund raising, with the grand opening on June 15, 2012.

The Library building features high vaulted ceilings, a beautiful fireplace, and an outdoor patio for leisurely reading. We are so impressed with the building and staff that we will hold a Sutton episode of this year’s Alaska Home Companion at the Sutton Public Library at 7pm on Saturday, November 8, 2014.

Radio Free Palmer, the local radio station KVRF, will be broadcasting this Sutton episode of Alaska Home Companion live on 89.5 FM, as well as our Wasilla episode on October 11 at 7pm. For more information, please visit www.ValleyArtsAlliance.com.

You owe it to yourself to visit this amazing library!

AUG 2014

The Sutton Public Library and Community Resource Center is located at 11301 N. Chickaloon Way in Sutton, and their hours are 11 to 8 on Tuesday & Thursdays, 10 to 7 on Wednesday & Friday, and 11 to 4 on Saturday.

FORM AN OPINION, VOTE ON PROPOSITION 2

Across 1. It's lowest on the Mohs scale 5. Words with ''the run'' or ''the go'' 10. Like Patagonia 14. Apple application, once 15. How often the postman rings?

16. Seward Peninsula city 17. ''St. Elmo's Fire'' actor 18. Devise, as a plot 19. Mane setting 20. Shakespearean demand?

23. Somerset Maugham's ''___ Betters'' 24. Sugar form 25. Canadian television network 28. Opposite of edge 31. Surfing essential 35. Popular bloom in Tennessee 37. Buddhist sect 38. Catlike 39. Lazarus demand?

42. Personas' counterparts 43. Miner's quest 44. Teamster's rig 45. Object associated with a saint, e.g.

46. Carnival barker's delivery 48. Handwoven Scandinavian rug 49. Ones going through a stage?

51. Equipment for Willie Wonka 53. Cuba film demand?

60. Fall short 61. Shaded place 62. Form check box 63. Founder and queen of Carthage 64. Some are in the Navy 65. Tab 66. Yemen port 67. Nomadic group 68. Midwife's action Down 1. Towering 2. Plant used cosmetically 3. Type of bowling or tennis 4. Guiding principle 5. Renders numb 6. Far partner 7. Jermaine and Marlon's brother 8. Pertaining to magic or astrology 9. India's first prime minister 10. Maryland's capital 11. Overwhelming audience response 12. Hobs 13. Balmoral Castle's river

21. It's the word 22. Actor M. ___ Walsh 25. George Burns trademark 26. Pickling solution 27. Kind of suit or servant 29. Laurie Partridge portrayer 30. Peek in someone's medicine cabinet, perhaps 32. More urgent 33. ''___ of the State'' (Smith film) 34. Word with circus or blitz 36. Clause connector 38. Type of poetry 40. Parrot with brilliant plumage 41. Alleged paranormalist Geller

46.

47.

50.

52.

53.

54.

55.

56.

57.

58.

59.

60.

Home theater quality Thrash Broadway success The pyramids, e.g.

Mentioned before Go underground Slope lift Office telephone button It's best to hit it on the head Actress Raines Puppy cry U.S. pharmaceuticals overseer

Poetry JADE CANOE for Julia Normand

Perspective Is Reality

By Grover Neely Beginnings, Again

By Austa Smith The perils we face in life Can be new beginnings, by Faith.

I hear the cries of people, Tears running down their faces, "I am a waif."

They cannot lift their heads above the storm.

Losing, maybe, all; wife, home, everything loved.

The retching of the bodies they frame.

The world knew, We cannot forever be shoved.

Burdens too much, when driving wind, With mighty breath, touches the ground.

Everything floating in midair.

There are few things To be found.

A life-savings investment, maybe, For a rainy day. It came and left, taken by the Great Deceiver Leaving them alone And so bereft.

Stories can be recited and retold.

Days come and go; months, years fly by.

The heart is empty, The heart is weak.

Somewhere, again, comes a glad cry.

Faith must rise, in hope anew.

A new change, the tide must rise.

Keep walking. Step by step, A mile or more, There is again, the seeing if the eyes.

Things never remain the same, no yesterday.

Be prepared for some joy or sorrow.

"One day at a time." We tell ourselves For, there is another day, Tomorrow.

This be this and that be that It’s where I am and it’s where we’re at Knee deep in water, quick in the sand A poke in the eye wasn’t part of the plan It slaps your face, it’ll let you fly It can be real steep, you’d better be spry It gathers you up and it can tie in knots It will put all your coins in all the wrong slots An empty pitcher of something it’s not A long long movie with a real bad plot An astro orbit on a field of play It gets slipperier every day You’re on your way and you won’t give up You’re beginning to slide, it isn’t enough Broken strings on a broken heart You can tune it up and make a new start Perspective is reality and it comes the way you take it on Gather the rhythm, take on the rhyme Step it up make that climb Better on the footsteps of dawn A spiritual plane you’re high on

Our jade canoe gently surges inward the Alaskan lake-heart, after Julia executes a swan-grace shove-off one citrine September evening… we speak of unnecessary fear, and she of eldering times when everyone familiar will have left her in the preface of insomnia or slumber pondering memoirs and mysteries… then, as if we ourselves became seasons, an --autumnal interlude-- intersects gratitude at our lives’ latitude, with Namaste-ic magnitude, and I vow no moment escape appreciation again! . . . and we two drift in a jade canoe amongst ballads and croons of mallards, arctic loons, grebes and sand hill cranes, entranced by the tail of The Talkeetna Mountains, gliding ripple by glassy ripple into Awe’s Winery….

Rising Tide

By Nan Potts The rising tide laps closer, Its crest is nearly here.

So, boost all those things You may possess, the ones you hold so dear To higher ground, and drier.

Where, you hope they will be safe And serve you well throughout your life.

You won't end up a waif To Nature's dynamic forces, To whom we must respect.

If She'd only halt Her flow of tears I'm certain we'd reflect On where and why we choose to dwell.

If, naiveté be our ruin Then, lessons learned from tantrums past As to what She might be a brewin' May be hard to tell, 'cause it's been a spell, Where and when Her whim be carried.

Those who She affects must clear the decks And clean up the mess that's buried.

©Elizabeth L Thompson

Woody Simone and Paris

By David Cheezem Woody Guthrie scratched his chin, sounding Like a mic-check at a union rally.

“Some songs I could write faster, truer Than that diner man can sign those paychecks.”

Simone Weil nodded, sipped coffee, spoke about levers and Paris Hilton whispered to Woody: “You might want to not get too close. She’s got TB.” Simone’s lips tide-changed to a smile.

“There’s a place, Paris, where what you think you are recedes. Jail and sex and YouTube videos fade.

Go there a moment. Don’t stay forever, but go there.” Paris felt Simone pinch her cheek. Simone’s skin was burned-paper dry.

For some time Paris felt those fingers on her cheek.

Woody Guthrie reached for his wallet, paid the check.

Fundraiser for Cyndi Conner Thursday, October 9 in Big Lake At Aardvark Catering/Pizza Thyme Resturant

Perhaps you know Cyndi Conner from her

This treatment has taken her to Arizona, where

bead, jewelry and rock shop, All About Me

they understood the cancer and are (hopefully)

Jewelry or The Crystal Mandela at the Eastlake

treating her successfully.

Mall in Big Lake. Perhaps you have participated in the Mother Drum event that was held in Big

As most of you know cancer treatment is

Lake a couple of years ago.

expensive, but when you have to do it out of state, it can sometimes feel overwhelming.

If you have met Cyndi, you will know what I

That is why a group of us who love Cyndi

mean when I say this woman is very special.

are organizing a benefit evening at Aardvark

She always has a good word and a healing

Catering and Pizza Thyme in the Eastlake Mall

stone for everyone.

in Big Lake. Thursday night, October 9 from 5pm til 9pm, join us for live music, a silent

In February of this year Cyndi was diagnosed

auction, door prizes and more and help us raise

with a very aggressive form of cancer. She has

funds to help this wonderful lady.

had some very radical treatments and I am glad to report that she is doing fairly well, but still undergoing two more months of twice daily radiation with a thermal session between.

Join us for a great evening and

show the Conners the love this Valley can provide!

PAGE 24

Entertainment

COMEDY IN WASILLA @ THE CLUMZY CLOVER IN THE META-ROSE SQUARE CLOCKTOWER

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Sharon Lacey September 27th Doors Open @ 6PM Pre-Order Ticket Cost $32.00 $45.00 At the Door Limited Seating Available COMES WITH 3 SCONES AND UNLIMITED TEA!

What do you do when Alzheimers runs in your family and you fear you see early symptoms in yourself, too? Sharon Lacey didn't waste a single moment: She quit her job as a national award-winning teacher to pursue her lifelong dream to be a road comic. And her life has become one amazing adventure!

Sharon has entertained U.S. troops in Iraq & Kuwait; performed in comedy clubs in 40 states; and has been to Africa 3 times to perform for Ugandan audiences in two of their tribal languages, as well as going on an epic trek in search of wild mountain gorillas.

Whether you're looking for hilarious standup comedy entertainment or a powerful, inspiring, and humorous motivational speech and workshop, Sharon Lacey is a perfect choice!

Sharon's corporate comedy is always clean, always funny!

Clean, smart humor and an inspiring true story.

LARRY ZARELLA @ THE CLUMZY CLOVER

Stop by and have a cup of tea and share great music!

AUG 2014

September 20th 2PM-6PM Limited Seating Available

How to be featured...

Give us a call 373-2698

Bio/Press Release

Email

Pictures

Try, try again!

Write a bio about you, your event, band, etc or a simple press release (Roughly 200-500 words)

Pictures are really important!

Take good ones!

We want to provide the community with as much information as possible, but sometimes we get overwhelmed with info. So, if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get a response, please keep trying.

MAGAZINE 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

ADD US to your mailing list!

Email word document or plain text to: makeasceneAK@mac.com

makeasceneak@mac.com We can stay up-to-date with you!

7

PAGE 26

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 primary 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

AUG 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 Mon-

Fri 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 March of Dimes Alaska Chapter

The March of Dimes is inspired by all babies – those born healthy and those who need our help to survive and thrive. Working together for stronger, healthier babies, in the Valley we work directly with the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center.

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

We also provide clinics and organizations with resources and information. We host a March for Babies walk in the Spring and High Heels for High Hopes Runway Show in August.

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.

For more information contact our office 276-4111 or email JOdgers@marchofdimes.com.

Alaska Center for Resource Families

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.

Regan Building 3161 E Palmer Wasilla Hwy. Suite #2 Linda Kupers, Administrative Assistant linda@linksprc.org - 907-373-3632

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.

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 - 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 MonFri 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

Applications are available on our website.

357-6160, www.familypromisematsu.org

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

The Children’s Place

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.

Check us out on Facebook

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.

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.

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

373-0195, www.valleyperformingarts.org

Valley Arts Alliance

The Valley Arts Alliance is a group of likeminded individuals who have joined together

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 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

Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue (ADPR)

Alaska Assistance Dogs (AAd)

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

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 United Way of Mat-Su

We are dedicated to working in our community on education, stable income and health. These are the building blocks for a quality life. We provide grants to programs with these areas of focus and administer programs that improve early childhood education, reduce substance

The Valley Quilters Guild

was formed in 1985 to promote quilting in the Matanuska Valley. We currently have a membership of about 180. Our main objectives are service to our community and the education of Quilters. We serve the community by donating quilts to organizations and groups that approach us with their needs. We also give quilts to the victims of fires, child abuse, homeless families, and Law Enforcement agencies for comforting victims of domestic violence. The Guild meets the first Thursday of each month at the Palmer Train Depot at 7 p.m.

Mat Su Sertoma Club

The Mat Su Sertoma Club focuses on hearing health. They are part of a national organization with more than 600 clubs throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

The club provides free hearing screens to the public the first Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wasilla Physical Therapy, 3750 E. Country Field Circle, Wasilla from September until May. During the summer we’re fishing, camping and gardening like most Alaskans!

The Mat Su Sertoma Club is the host to the Annual Mat Su Polar Plunge, the original valley dip each February. They have been responsible for providing funding to non profits in the Mat Su Borough for more than 5 years, along with scholarship funding for two students who are pursuing an education in the hearing health field.

The website is www.matsuhearing.dot to stay abreast of activities. Meetings are held the second and fourth Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at Tailgaters Restaurant in Wasilla.

Mat-Su Special Santa

The Mat-Su Special Santa program is the largest Christmas gift giving program in the Valley.

Mat-Su Special Santa teams with Toys for Tots, Salvation Army, Food Banks, state and local agencies, churches and schools to help families in need. Last year over 3400 children completed a wish list with requests for Christmas presents.

The program provided at least two toys/ gifts, winter wear when possible, a new book, personal items and stocking stuffers. All of this is possible through the generous donations of our community with over 1000 community members, organizations, clubs and schools either volunteering or donating to the program.

This is an all volunteer program. We are also in need of volunteers.

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.

The Sertoma Club - Wasilla

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.

Mat-Su Community Chorus

Do you love to sing? The Mat-Su Community Chorus welcomes new adult members in all vocal ranges each September and January.

We are a well-established, male-female, SATB community singing group conducted by Anna Crowther. Group singing benefits your emotional and physical health and enriches our community, so bring your talents and join the Chorus! No audition required although previous experience is helpful.

We offer complimentary performances at public celebrations and deliver formal concerts several times a year. Rehearsals are on Thursdays at the WHS choir room from 7 - 9 pm. Contact us at matsucomchorus@gmail.com or call Sandy at 907-355-5836 for membership details. Like us on Facebook for concert reminders.

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.

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!

Valley Residential Services

VRS provides housing to people with special needs. We define people with special needs as those individuals who are experiencing behavioral or developmental disabilities, lowincome levels or who are seniors. VRS currently manages 198 residential units distributed in the Mat-Su Valley and participates in special programs to assist with rental assistance. We can also assist with linking individuals to social service agencies who can assist with life skills programs.

(907) 357-0256, www.valleyres.org

The Special Santa Program’s goal is to help children receive the magic of Christmas and know that people care. In reaching this goal the program: 1. Coordinates with agencies and programs to provide for families, 2. Provides the citizens in the Community an opportunity to give, 3. Assists families in need at a stressful time of year, 4. Spreads the joy of Christmas throughout the Mat-Su Valley.

TOPS

Go to www.specialsanta.net for more information or e-mail us at matsu_santa@yahoo. com.

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 Tuesday thru Friday 10:30am to 6:00pm and Saturday 10:30am to 3:30pm. Businesses can call ahead

The Last Frontier Honor Flight

Our mission is to transport WWII, Alaska Territorial Guard and Korean War veterans

Take off 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)

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 valleyrecycling.org - 745-5544

Valley Residential Services (VRS)

VRS provides special needs housing to individuals who experience behavioral or 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 Attachment & Bonding Associates (AABA)

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

The Homeless Actors of Mat-Su

HAMS, the Homeless Actors of Mat-Su, is a valley non-profit community theater group created to further theatrical opportunities for actors and technical personnel of all ages, be experienced or beginner and the audiences who have not been fully represented in the valley.

With local support we intend to produce a broad range of the atypical classical, modern, comic, dramatic and musical one act and full length plays and improvisational theater that are both educational and entertaining in the traditional and dinner theater format as fundraisers for various local causes and to continue to encourage development of the theater arts in the Mat-Su Valley.

Contact Elizabeth Clausen, General Manager, 841-4119; akhams@yahoo.com

Mat-Su Food Bank

Matsu Our mission at the Matsu Food Bank is to provide emergency supplemental food to residents of the Matanuska Susitna Valley. The Matsu Food Bank distributes food in a way that provides dignity to all of our clients.

All distributions provided by the Matsu Food Bank dba Food Pantry of Wasilla, will be given without regard to race, color, sex, age, physical or mental limitations, religious affiliation, or national origin.

The pantry hours of distribution are Monday through Friday from 10:00AM to 1:00PM. We are located at 501 E. Bogard Rd. in Wasilla. Our contact number is 907-357-3769.

We have three programs of operation under the Matsu Food Bank. The community supplied Food Pantry of Wasilla accepts cash, & food donations from individuals and groups that are distributed to clients on a monthly basis. We also are a distribution location for TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program). This is a program provided by the USDA. Our third program is Food 4 Kids.

This program prepares and delivers nutritious meals and snacks to hungry kids in a safe community environment. We provide meals during the school year and also have a summer program at various locations to provide nutritious lunches for all kids in the valley 18 years or younger.

We have a website www.matsufoodbank.org. If you have any questions please go to the website or

OUTDOORS North America Outdoor Institute

The North America Outdoor Institute (NAOI) is a 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

Alaskans For Palmer Hay Flats

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

357-8711, alaskans@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.

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 Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center

The mission of the Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation Center is to care for injured, orphaned and sick wild birds with the goal of releasing them back into the wild; and to educate the public about these birds and their habitats.

AWBRC, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is always looking for volunteers and donations. We are undergoing a building project this summer, and can use carpentry assistance. In addition, regular volunteers are always needed for care of our resident birds. Please visit our web site at http://www.akwildbirdrehab.org/ for further information about us, to volunteer or to request a live bird program.

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, year-round community-based organization; a non-regulatory 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. distmgr@wasillaswcd.org

AUG 2014

United Way of Mat Su was formed in 1987 to serve as a single, borough wide, fundraising agency, but we have grown to be so much more.

United Way provides information on available services through the 211 hotline and website www.alaska211.org and keep current and distribute the Mat-Sui Resource Guide. Our goal is to bring together individuals, companies and agencies to achieve measurable, positive, lasting results. We ask the community to LIVE UNITED which means all of us coming together to volunteer, advocate and give to create a brighter future for all. To find out more visit www.unitedwaymatsu.org or call 373-5807. The United Way of Matanuska Susitna Borough is physically located at 550 S Alaska Street Suite 205 Palmer, AK 99645.

to Washington D.C. to visit those memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices AT NO COST TO THE VETERANS.

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

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

abuse and improve senior citizen nutrition. We supply Familywize prescription drug discount cards, which have saved people in the Mat-Su over $500,000 since its beginning.

PAGE 27

to encourage, sponsor, facilitate and support artistic expression.

Short Story

MATANUSKA FOUND ART PROJECT

As a means of exploring the concepts behind both the movements of earth art and found art, the Palmer Museum collaborated with the artists of the Valley Arts Alliance to create the Matanuska Found project.

Inspired by ancient monoliths like Stone Henge and America’s mound builders, artists in the late 1960s began to search for inspiration outside of the museums and art galleries. The result was artists using the outdoors as their new “canvas.” They began to create what is now known as earth art, land art or earthworks, using rock, wood and other synthetic materials as their media. The works frequently existed in the open and were left to change and erode under natural conditions. Many of these notable works were temporary from the beginning, having since been destroyed and now only existing in photographic documents. They served as a protest against the industry of art collecting and served as a means of connecting man with the natural world.

At the beginning of the 20th century but also concurrently existing during the same time the earth art movement was taking flight, artists began to incorporate found objects into sculptural works as an artistic gesture. This new approach became known as found art or assemblage art. In this approach, artists would take preexisting items and elevate them through art either as stand alones or by combining them with other objects. This new artistic approach challenged the notions of art being primarily intellectual as opposed to being strictly material and questioned whether an artist’s creation and intent was of more value than manual skill honed to perfection.

As a means of exploring the concepts behind both the movements of earth art and found art, the Palmer Museum collaborated with the artists of the Valley Arts Alliance to create the Matanuska Found project. Matanuska Found is comprised of several outdoor sculptures/installations created from both organic and commercial materials that were constructed over a course of three days.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 31

ALASKA CELTIC PIPES & DRUMS

The Rumbledethumps Concert promises to deliver yet again a brilliant evening of entertainment, with piping and drumming from the entire ensemble, as well as solos, and smaller groups of pipers and drummers within the Band.

Based in Eagle River, Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums are very active in the Mat-Su Valley, the greater Anchorage area, and throughout South-Central Alaska, and has great fun teaching, performing, and competing. The Band has most recently returned from competing this summer at the Pacific Northwest Highland Games in Enumclaw, Washington, and is preparing for even bigger contests in the coming year.

> Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums extend an open invitation for FREE lessons with the Band to anyone with a desire to learn piping or drumming.

The Rumbledethumps Concert is one of the community concerts presented throughout the state by Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums, and is regarded by the Band as a particularly special time to say thanks to the people of our own home district.

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

Mark your Calendars - Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums present another Alaskan Autumn tradition, with an evening of Highland Piping and Drumming – The Rumbledethumps Concert at 7:00 pm on Saturday, October 11th, at First Presbyterian Church, 1375 E. Bogard Road in Wasilla. (From Parks Hwy, Turn North on Crusey Street, then East on Bogard Road; Church is ½ Mile East from Wasilla High School.)

PAGE 29

Music

Midway through the concert, there will be a short intermission, during which refreshments, Scottish shortbread, and cookies will be served.

Admission is free; donations are accepted, with proceeds going towards Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums’ Education Fund, and the church youth group.

Support Your Local Pipe Band; it will blow your mind!

AUG 2014

Contact the Band via email at jungstensgericht@yahoo.com, or phone 907-688-4196.

PAGE 30

Community

FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR ENGINE 557 RESTORATION Community Groups Continue To Invest In Major Historical Locomotive Renovation

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

ANCHORAGE – The Alaska Community Foundation (ACF) and Engine 557 Restoration Company (Engine 557) proudly announce the receipt of two grants in support of the restoration of former Alaska Railroad steam locomotive #557.

The Alaska Community Foundation and Engine 557 thanks the Kenai Mountains-Turnagain Arm Corridor Communities Association, which was established to recognize, preserve and interpret the historical resources and cultural landscapes of the Kenai Mountains – Turnagain Arm transportation corridor, for their generous grant of $10,000.

Additionally, ACF and Engine 557 celebrates the National Railway Historical Society, the nation’s leading advocate for U.S. rail preservation and the largest rail preservation and historical society, for their selection of Engine 557 as one of the 2014 National Railway Heritage grantees.

For more information visit www.alaskarails.org Established in 1995, The Alaska Community Foundation is a statewide platform for philanthropy that connects people who care with causes that matter. Holding over $83 million in over 300 funds for the benefit of Alaskans, ACF grants $5-6 million each year to charitable projects and nonprofit

AUG 2014

organizations across the state.

Our mission is to cultivate, celebrate and sustain all forms of philanthropy to strengthen Alaska’s communities forever. For more information, visit www.alaskacf.org or call (907) 334-6700.

“Railroads have played such an important role in shaping Alaska,” states Candace Winkler, ACF President and CEO. “ACF is proud to sponsor this project as it restores locomotive #557 to working conditions. We are excited that Alaskans will soon have the opportunity to ride on a piece of our shared history.”

The Engine 557 Restoration Company was established in 2012 and is at the halfway point of a four-year-long major overhaul and restoration of the locomotive. Restoration efforts rely almost exclusively on a cadre of volunteers who have each donated hundreds of hours in dismantling, cleaning, inspecting and refurbishing each part of the 1944 steam locomotive. A number of businesses and individuals throughout the Anchorage and Mat-Su areas assist the Engine 557 Restoration Company with monetary and material support.

> Special thanks to Rasmuson Foundation for generously matching donations to Engine 557

PAGE 31

Art

Traditionally, earth art is created within the constructs of the natural environment by using materials located on site or relative to the site. Unfortunately, since the museum grounds consist of a carefully manicured lawn and a monitored showcase garden, the artists were unable to acquire the essential materials needed to accomplish a true earth art piece.

As a result, organic materials from nearby locations and commercial objects were introduced as the creative media and the installation became an interpretation of both art movements; evolving into something uniquely of its own. Matanuska Found will be on display outside on the Palmer Museum grounds through October 4th with informational panels inside the museum describing the project and the two art movements that inspired it.

The Museum is also currently seeking artists to participate in its annual Day of the Dead exhibit, Recuerdas: Reinterpreting Ofrendas which will take place during the middle of October through the beginning of November. All interested artists should contact the Museum Director, Selena Ortega-Chiolero, at 746-7668 or email at director@palmermuseum.org.

About PMHA:

The Palmer Museum of History and Art is a non-profit museum that serves the community of Palmer in preserving and sharing the history and art of the Palmer region. The museum’s collections contain items that best depict region’s art history, exploration, settlement, agriculture, and trade, cultural and social development. During the summer, May 1st through September 30th, the museum also serves a Palmer’s Visitor’s Center and is open seven days a week from 9:00AM to 6:00PM. The museum also operates during the winter months from October 1st through April 30th, Wednesday through Friday, 10:00AM to 5:00PM and Saturdays, 10:00AM to 2:00PM.

AUG 2014

Be sure to check the museum website at www. palmermuseum.org for further details on upcoming events and future exhibits. The Palmer Museum looks forward to celebrating fall in the valley and bringing more art to the community!

www. MAKEASCENEAK .com

MATANUSKA FOUND ART PROJECT continued