Brian Endle, Candidate for MSB Assembly 

Contributed by Brian Endle

Over the past three years, there has been no other candidate with a consistent record of showing up to the Borough Assembly, bringing transparency to things that are hidden and defending the rights of residents.

Through Facebook, emails and articles, I’ve been serving borough residents and communicating problems and solutions to the Assembly. Now I’m asking for District 1’s vote to bring the same transparency to the other side of the bench and help move solutions forward that benefit borough residents rather than big government agendas.

Most recently some assembly members attempted to use the government to solve a problem between two neighbors. One was target practicing on private property.  Others, hearing the noise, went to the Borough Assembly to solve their problem. If any wrong was done, the assembly was not the place for resolution.

The Assembly’s solution in the September 17th meeting was to have the Planning Department come up with a CUP (Conditional Use Permit) process for commercial, educational and non-profit shooting facilities. 

When this issue of regulating shooting ranges first arose about a year ago from another Assembly person, the Borough was tasked to contact those with shooting range expertise to participate on an advisory board. However, they failed to reach many in that community according to the testimony of those present at this year’s meeting. The Assembly had an opportunity to create an advisory board with those that attended the September meeting, but rejected that opportunity and decided to fast-track their control over what happens in the borough. The Planning Department, which likely lacks expertise in this area, has now been directed by the Assembly to gather information from experts at the meeting and others and present regulations to the Assembly for approval. This is just government gone bad.

One of the solutions proposed by the Planning Department was that, “The Borough may expand the Core-Area CUP to the entire Borough. This action would extend additional restrictions to all new, commercial and industrial developments, including shooting ranges, which exceed thresholds for noise, traffic or hazardous substances.”

The proposed “solution”, depending on how it is implemented, could bring a process where input from your neighbor and the Borough Planning Commission appointed by the mayor are weighed to decide how you use your property.  According to one solution presented, the Borough’s control could also bring in unwanted zoning and easily extend beyond shooting range regulations into other areas. 

I was the only candidate present at this meeting, and I testified against it. 

I’m looking for your support to help bring solutions that reduce government control over private property, solve problems with the Matanuska River, address issues with drug compounds and other borough resident concerns.

I’d appreciate your vote November 5th!

Homeschool in Alaska 

Contributed by Wes Keller 

As a culture, we revere education. Our enlightened perspective has been confirmed since ancient times, and was a foundational premise of our Alaska Constitution. A proverb captures well the elements of education we find desirable: “…Buy the truth and do not sell it - wisdom, instruction and insight as well. The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. (Proverbs 23: 22–24). “Instruction” is included with truth, wisdom, insight and parental delight. Education is an inherent element of our humanity. This explains why our Alaska Constitution nobly directs state government (the legislature) to provide for a system of public schools (VII.1). However, in so doing, the constitution effectively pins a check on the collar of every potential student, creating an artificial incentive to enroll every child into the public school system. This incentive can overwhelm the incentives for truth, instruction, wisdom, insight and successful parenting.

The revenue each student represents is withdrawn from the annual budget allocation using a complex legal “formula” intended to keep distribution equitable. The law supposedly keeps things fair by applying factors to adjust for the cost differences between children and is predictably a legislative target for tweaks to favor various interests. It’s rarely tweaked to reduce spending. The factors compensate for varying costs of local commodities, transportation, facility size, special education, alternative or charter schools, and many other variables.

Any legislator who has tried to work with the funding formula can tell you it is far less than perfect and very difficult to reform the system. Every aspect of the formula has political watchdogs to protect specific revenue items, effectively making it almost useless to achieve sweeping, comprehensive reform.

Thanks to wise legislative priorities, Alaska Statutes give unquestionable authority to parents to decide whether or not to enroll their children in the public school system. Alaska Statute AS 14.30.010 (B) (12) is a hard-won assurance confirming parents are in control of their child/children’s education. The big question, of course, is, “What happens to the potential revenue when a student does not enroll in the public system?”

Parents who opt to send their children to a private school or teach them at home “deprive” the school districts of potential revenue… lots of it. A now-retired Commissioner of Education, made a policy call to authorize school districts to operate “home school support programs” enabling them to enroll home school students into the public school system to access the otherwise lost revenue.

Accounting methods do not make it easy to figure out the actual cost (value) or the services rendered. If the school district were a business, this value would be called “profit”. The revenue is not restricted, meaning the district may choose to spend however/wherever they need. Each district is free to create its programs to create a competitive option for parents. As you might expect, some districts offer very attractive incentives to encourage participation. 

It’s wonderful and equitable for parents who choose to home school to be potentially subsidized! It is noble and just to enroll children in a home school support program to be eligible to receive reimbursement to help pay for computers, non-sectarian book, equipment and the education portion of family vacations, activities, travel and events.

Each expenditure is approved (or not) by the enrolling district. Students get access to certified teachers as resources to assist in the parent-selected curriculum and other various services depending on the district. In exchange for education funds, parents must complete the authorizing reimbursement paperwork and subject their children to standardized testing… which is basic for postsecondary endeavors.

At some level, everybody wins! Parents are happy enough to enroll their children; the public school system is happy with the revenue stream; the legislature is happy to get data (testing results).

At another level, what has evolved is novel enough we don’t yet know what the end results will be! We do know homeschool students are generally doing very well academically and are proving to be coveted college and trade-school students.

Alaskans have arguably placed a higher priority on education than other states – measured by expenditure per capita for each student. Huge challenges are ahead if we really value education for education’s sake. We will see how we handle intensified competition for revenue as we encounter necessary spending cuts. The way forward is inextricably linked to increasing parental educational choice and control because of their inherent drive to educate their children. Do not forget the crushing testing reports showing Alaska fourth from the bottom in the nation! (www.nationsreportcard.gov).

We love education, but it is an open question whether our public school system has too much focus on self-preservation. Needed reform legislation is too often held hostage by special interest groups who are loudly appalled by even a consideration of the benefits of more parental control (home schools, vouchers, or education savings accounts). Their minds are officially closed until they are assured traditional system revenue is safe.

Wes Keller | www.WesKeller.com

Wasilla to Celebrate Autumn the Old-Fashioned Way

Contributed by Bethany Buckingham Follet, Wasilla Museum

Old Town Autumn Fest
10/19/2019 – 1PM

City of Wasilla, Wasilla Museum
Wasilla Historic Town Site
FREE Event

The Wasilla Museum invites the community to celebrate the arrival of autumn with our annual Old Town Autumn Fest on October 19, 2019. Join us for family activities and fun.

On Saturday, October 19, 2019 at 1pm, the Museum hosts trick-or-treat in the Wasilla Historic Town Site. There will be crafts and games for children, Face Paints by Sam, hay rides around the town site, hot cider and cookies, performances by Hillary Saffran and Alaska Irish Dance, a Halloween Village and much more.

Help us bring back the Wasilla tradition of celebrating autumn as a community.

About Wasilla Museum:

Located at 391 N Main Street, the Wasilla Museum is open Tuesday-Friday, 9am-5pm. For more information and a detailed list of events, please contact the museum at (907) 373-9071 or visit us online at www.cityofwasilla.com/museum or facbook @wasillamuseum.

What I’ve Heard & Why I Am Running

Contributed by Tim Hale

It’s been a little over three months since I announced my candidacy for the Borough Assembly; and let me tell you, it has been an amazing journey! I want to give a big shout-out to my wife, Tara, and our daughter, Eliza, for their patience, understanding and hard work to help ensure that the People have a voice on our Assembly. Tara and I got married August 24th. Two days later, we closed on our house, and two days after that, I filed to run for this office. I like to joke around with her about our “honeymoon”!

I am running for Assembly District 1, which covers the Old Glenn, from Mile 0 to the George Palmer Bridge, skips around the City of Palmer, and runs from Palmer Fishhook north to Lake Louise. It’s a huge district, spanning 200 miles on its longest axis, and I have been out in our community every day knocking on doors, calling folks and attending community council meetings and other events. I’m doing it because I want to hear your ideas and concerns about our community, and you have obliged! I have spoken to hundreds, if not thousands, of community members, scribbling notes in my yellow “Rite in the Rain” field book, and what I have heard is encouraging. Sure, there are some things the Borough doesn’t do well, but we have a bright future and there are many hardworking folks in the community fighting to ensure that it gets brighter!

I’ve heard concerns about funding for schools, and taxes, and wasteful spending. I’ve heard concerns about the loss of ambulance personnel in rural areas, roads that need paving and roads that got paved when they didn’t need it. I’ve heard concerns about the Mat River, and how it likes to eat houses, both here in Butte and up in Sutton. I’ve heard concerns about crime, and squatters, particularly at the property known in these parts as “The Compound”. I don’t have all the answers to these problems yet, but I do know that there are folks in our community who do! That is why I will fight to make our local government easier to participate with, and more transparent and accountable to the people.

I will fight for an online checkbook, so that anyone can see exactly what we spend our money on. I will fight to allow the public to call in to meetings and give their testimony, so that every resident in our Borough (which is the size of West Virginia) can have their voice heard. I will fight for a Citizen’s Advisory Committee on the Budget, to restore trust in government and to find out what we are doing well, what we are doing poorly and what we are wasting our money on.

Mostly, I hear how this is the greatest place on earth to live, and work, and play! I hear about how we have the best schools in Alaska, and how they do more with less than any other district. I hear about all of the amazing groups and faith communities that are working on behalf of our elders, or victims of domestic violence, or folks suffering from addiction. I hear about how our economy continues to grow, and that we are the only bright spot in an otherwise dismal state economy. I hear about opportunities: for employment, for recreation, for learning, and for community.

These are the things that made me fall in love with this place, way back in ‘96, when I came to fight the Miller’s Reach Fire, although that kid wouldn’t have been able to express it in these words. These are the reasons that a lifelong Alaskan would choose this little corner of our great state to call home. These are the reasons I am working so hard to be your advocate on the Assembly, to preserve what makes our Valley great, and to fight for an even brighter future! I am working hard to earn your support and would be honored to have your vote on November 5th.

Tim Hale

Candidate for MSB Assembly, District 1

907-590-8243

17635 Marcus Baker Dr.

Running for Alaska Senate

Contributed by Huhnkie Lee

Greetings Ladies and Gentlemen, my name is Huhnkie Lee. Recently, I filed a declaration of candidacy for Alaska Senate election in November 2020. My “Senate District D” includes Meadow Lakes, Point MacKenzie, Big Lakes, Knik-Fairview, Wasilla and neighboring areas.  Of course, I will have to win the Primary election first within the registered Republican voters in the next summer, but I would love to introduce myself to you, my dear neighbors and voters.

I was born in Ithaca, New York, when my dad came to America with my mom to study. After he got his PhD in economics in Cornell University, we all moved back to Seoul, South Korea, where I lived until high school graduation. Then I came back to America like Alaskan salmon who remembers the scent of his native land. I majored in computer science in University of Wisconsin-Madison, then went to study for PhD in computational biology in Cornell University.  I dropped out after two years in order to become an actor in Los Angeles, California.

I worked full-time as a computer programmer in LA for three years and made a movie all by myself, including acting/directing/writing/filming/editing/music. It is called “A Therapy for Metrophobia” and five film festivals accepted my movie for public view. Then I joined the U.S. Army as a junior-enlisted soldier, working for four years as a helicopter electrician, and I was deployed in Afghanistan for a year.

After I was honorably discharged, I went to University of Michigan Law School with GI-Bill and graduated in two years. Then I came to Alaska. I worked as a computer programmer for three years for the State of Alaska. Then last year, 2018, I passed Alaska Bar Exam and got a lawyer job here in Wasilla. So, that’s my story.

I came to Alaska because I was fascinated by its unique adventure and nature that I saw on TV, like “Alaska the Last Frontier”, “Yukon Men”, or documentary on Mr. Heimo Korth. I wanted to be part of that wonderful American state, and I’ve been loving this state ever since. I first lived in Anchorage from 2015-2016. Then, I moved to Wasilla when I bought a house for the first time, as I wanted space and quietness and quasi-rural environment.

Now, let’s talk politics and religion, shall we? I am a registered Republican and a Christian conservative. So, that sums up pretty much all I have to say about all the issues. There is one part, however, that I do not 100% agree with in the Republican Party’s list of doctrines. It’s about abortion. Please, allow me to explain.

I understand both sides of the issue. I understand that Christians feel strong about the dignity of human being, as they believe that humans are made after God’s image, even the fetuses. I 100% understand their viewpoint and I do respect their religious conviction.

But, let us calm ourselves and think of a scenario. Say, there once was a young girl who met a boy. They fell in love, she got pregnant, and he left the state. Now she is left with a baby that she does not want, that she cannot afford raising. Now, if there is a law that forces her to undergo 9 months of pregnancy and a huge pain of birth labor, also to raise the unwanted baby, what becomes of her education, her career, her life? I think it is unfair for young women to take all the burden from other people’s religious beliefs against abortion, and other men’s irresponsible mistakes to impregnate them.

I understand that this fairly “liberal”’ view of mine on abortion issue probably abort my chance to win the next or any Republican primary elections to come. Then why am I expressing this highly unpopular view in public like this? It is because it is a great pleasure to me to be controversial. 

Next, I want to tell you why I am running for Alaska Senate. It is a great hobby. In all honesty, I think Senator David Wilson is doing a fantastic job for my District D, representing our interest in Juneau very well. I have absolutely nothing to criticize about him at all, both in political or personal level. I am running for the seat for pleasure and for my education as well.

I hope that people, organizations, radio or TV shows would invite me for a forum, speech, Q&A session, even debates. It would be a great honor to interact with people to teach and learn. That is why I am running.

I also run on the streets too. If you live in Greater Wasilla, you probably have seen me running during lunch time or in the evening. I believe that diet and exercise is the key to all the health-related issues in America, including Medicare, Medicaid, rising health insurance premiums, opioid addiction, etc.

Oh, I forgot to tell you one thing.  Or two things.  I smoke cigarettes and drink vodka.  I don’t drink and drive, but I do drink vodka every night at home.  

Thank you very much, Alaskans //:-)

LaMarr Anderson for Borough Assembly

Contributed by LaMarr Anderson

As a candidate for the upcoming November 5th  election for Borough Assembly District 2 (Greater Palmer and surrounding area), I am often asked for information about myself and why I should be considered for election by voters.  

My webpage, www.Electlamarr.com, provides good summary information about me and my philosophical foundations. As much as I’d like to personally introduce and visit with everyone, I obviously can’t accomplish such. Therefore, here is synopsis information that I hope is helpful.

Although I’m a 21 years of service retired Air Force officer, I’m not really retired. Actually, I’m a long-time engaged community member that is extensively involved in many varied aspects of the Valley and the Greater Palmer area. We live in a beautiful and passioned citizen community.  I have, and still serve with various Borough citizen boards and community service organizations. And I involve myself in many community activities from music, Salvation Army Christmas Ringing the Bell and community improvement projects.  I’m usually and best-defined as an individual who is a careful and contemplative evaluator of issues and the reasoning of others. And one who is cognizant of community issues and supports community economic growth and enhancement.

That’s why I chose to be a candidate to succeed Assemblyman Beck. Community leaders who know and have worked with me in various capacities came to me asking that I seek the position because of my background experiences, their assessment of my decision process skills and of my sense of fairness and focus for the good and best interest of the community.   

As I’m sure you are aware, the Valley has/is growing so fast...and growth produces consequences and challenges. Careful deliberative restraint in government size and spending is a critical responsibility of Assembly members as they deliberate how to best continue supporting and enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life in the Valley... a proper balance of both is very important… for the near-term as well as longterm. Issues for economic growth, education excellence support, health and safety, combined with state financial limitation impacts, must be addressed. Helping identify the balance that District 2 and Borough citizens desire for all these aspects of borough governess is what my background and Valley life experiences will provide.

I would be honored by your vote consideration. 

Sincerely,

LaMarr Anderson

Candidate, Borough Assembly Dist 2

907 232-5082

Big Lake Lions Christmas Bazaar

Contributed by Jamie Estes, Big Lake Lions Club 

Big Lake Lions Christmas Bazaar
December 7-8, 2019 – 11AM
Big Lake Lions Club
East Lake Mall
3261 Big Lake Rd. Big Lake
FREE Event

Christmas is a time of year where we gather with those we love, wrap-up in our warm winter coats, sing carols and go to as many Christmas bazaars we can fit into a short amount of time.

The Big Lake Lions Club has been hosting a Christmas bazaar in the community of Big Lake for over three decades. One weekend a year, we take over the East Lake Mall with friends, family, vendors, community members and SANTA to celebrate the best time of the year. We host over 30 vendors selling all kinds of handmade items… from Jennifer’s fudge, infused glass art, night lights, jewelry, ornaments, the famous Christmas spiders… to entrepreneurs selling Color Street Nails, LuluRoe, Scentsy and many more. We also like to take time to spend with SANTA CLAUS. He will be making an appearance from 1:00pm until 4:00pm

The Big Lake Lions Club has been serving the community of Big Lake for 40 years! In that time, we have accomplished many things and we hope to continue to serve to serve our community and achieve much more in the coming years.

By coming out and supporting our Christmas bazaar, you support us in continuing our vision screening and providing glasses to those in need, diabetes research, keeping our recreation center open for free skate on the weekends and helping those in need with holiday meals.

Come and visit us December 7th, 11:00am-6:00pm, and December 8th, 11:00am-5:00pm at the East Lake Mall in Big Lake.

Valley Homeschool Expo Thanks You!

Contributed by Kim Bergey, Valley Homeschool Network

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

We, the Valley Homeschool Network, had a wonderful time welcoming and talking with all the families that attended the first Valley Homeschool Expo!

We would like to give a big shout out to Mayor Bert Cottle, Joan Klapperich and her team at the Menard for being such wonderful hosts.

Additional thanks go to all the homeschool programs that came together to support and help facilitate this event: IDEA Homeschool, Cyberlynx, FOCUS, Raven Homeschool, Denali PEAK Homeschool, PACE Homeschool and Mat-Su Central School.

Our career and technical education, university and military partners had great information to share with our families and their high school students. Thank you to the team at Mat-Su College, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Northern Industrial Training and our military recruiters.

We also want to extend a HUGE heartfelt thank you to all of our local vendors that do such a fabulous job in supporting our homeschooling efforts through the many wonderful and creative learning opportunities they provide for more than 4800 Valley homeschool students!

Most importantly, we want to thank the more than 4800 homeschooling students and their families and those additional families who were looking for homeschool information for taking time out of your busy schedules to investigate your education options! Please know that you are appreciated!

If you missed out on this opportunity and would like to participate next year, please feel free to call Kim Bergey at 907-357-9573.

PJ’s Crafty Corner Grand Opening

Contributed by Jennifer Brass

 PJ’S Craft Corner Grand Opening
10/19/2019 – 10AM
PJ’S Crafty Corner
1830 E Parks Hwy. Ste. #A102
FREE Event

Come join us October 19, 2019, from 10am-7pm, for our grand opening event!

Spin the prize wheel for your chance at free products or great discounts!

Home of the Slayer clothing line - Salmon, Sheep, Moose, Caribou and Bear. Infant to plus-size adult clothing, cups, door mats, signs, decals, and more! Custom orders always welcome.

Mat-Su Republican Women's Club Octoberfest Brats, Beer & Wine Event

Contributed by Carolyn Porter

Octoberfest Brats, Beer & Wine Event
10/19/2019 – 6:30PM
Mat-Su Republican Women’s Club
Palmer Moose Lodge
1136 Cobb St. Palmer
Tickets: $50 Early-Bird, $60 @Door

The Mat-Su Republican Women’s Club, est. 1947, is the oldest Republican club in the state. We diligently work to support conservative values and candidates not only in the Mat-Su, but throughout the state.  We provide an environment in which like-minded people can meet and share ideas.

A fun-filled fundraising event is planned for Saturday, October 19th. We are hosting our Octoberfest Beer, Brats, and Wine event, which will take place at the Palmer Moose Lodge, 1136 Cobb St. Palmer. An admission ticket includes social hour from 5:30pm until 6:30pm. This is a time when attendees can visit with our elected officials who are in attendance.  Dinner and the program begin at 6:30pm.

We will be serving brats and Polish sausage with accompaniments such as German potato salad, pretzels, desserts and a variety of other goodies.  Beer and wine will also be included. We are honored to have as our speaker Governor Michael Dunleavy.  

Tickets are $50 if purchased early and $60 at the door. They are available on our website, www.matsurepublicanwomensclub.org, or on our Facebook page under “Events”. There are links for paying securely on PayPal. 

For questions feel free to contact Sandy at 907-315-3297 or Carolyn at 907-903-9353. 

Come spend a fun evening with us. Now is the time for us to become involved, educated and active. 

Hospice Is About Living

Contributed by Sarah Imme, Ancora Home Health & Hospice

 Volunteer For Hospice Open House
10/25/2019 – 5:30PM
Ancora Home Health & Hospice
2851 E Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. Ste. #7-#8
FREE Event

“How’s Jack doing?” you ask your friend.

Slowly and very quietly, as if she’s about to share something you’re not allowed to say out loud, she whispers back, “You haven’t heard? He’s on Hospice.”

The truth is, the word Hospice itself is still very much associated with stigma and surrounded by misconceptions, despite having formally been around for 40+ years. The problem this creates is that not enough people understand the benefits that are possible by having the service.

Let’s set things straight here:

Hospice is about living.

To each person, that may mean something different. It may be that you don’t want to continue to feel awful, going to treatments and appointments that aren’t making things better for you. It may mean that you just want to be comfortable, at home, with your loved ones. It may mean that you and your caregivers need help because you’re tired, stressed and could really use more oversight and care. For many, they just want to be in control.

Ancora Hospice services include a holistic approach to meet your physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs for patients and families who are facing a life-limiting disease. Our team is patient and family centered and includes oversight by our Medical Director and an RN case manager who is available 24/7 should a need arise. We also offer Medical Social Workers and Certified Nursing Assistants who are available to provide assistance with resources and personal care.

 In addition to clinical services, Hospice offers both volunteer and chaplain/bereavement programs. Just as it takes a special person to care for those on Hospice, it also takes a special person to be a volunteer. Not only does volunteering benefit the patient and their family/caregivers, but it is also highly fulfilling for the person offering their time, energy and support.

Oftentimes people ask what volunteers do, but truly that depends on the individual person and what their strengths and comforts are. Each volunteer can pull from their past experiences, skill sets, hobbies and interests. Some even combine their interests with those of the patient to ensure that each experience is a personal one. Others prefer to assist with office-based tasks, but all time is equally important, valued and appreciated.

If you’re interested in learning more about volunteering with Hospice, Ancora is hosting an Open House on Friday, October 25th, from 5:30pm-7:30pm. The event will be held at our Valley office, located at 2851 E Palmer-Wasilla Hwy, Suite 7, Wasilla. As we continue to grow and expand, our need for volunteers across all genders, cultures and locations has never been greater. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please reach out to our volunteer coordinator at 352.4848. You never know what kind of impact volunteering may have, both for yourself and others. We hope to see you there!

NOTE: The attached image “Dan-Dan The Mountain Man” was created by art-therapist and Hospice volunteer, Sandra Falkner-Chandler, for a Hospice patient and his family.

Mat Su Sertoma Recognizes Madeline M. Emmi 

WEB COMMUNITY - Mat Su Sertoma Recognizes Madeline M. Emmi.jpeg

Contributed by Paula Nance

 The Mat Su Sertoma Club recognized Madeline Emmi with the SERvice TO MAnkind Award this fall.

For the year closing 2018-2109, Madeline stood out for her volunteer efforts in the Mat-Su Borough. She is the youngest individual to be recognized to date for this award. She has been involved with volunteering from an early age, starting in middle school and then through high school.

Madeline has an endless list of volunteer work:

·      Girl Scouts

·      Teacher’s Assistant

·      Student Government

·      Special Olympics Programs, spending 2 weeks every summer at Camp Shriver.

·      First student on the council for “No More Mat-Su.”  This is a nationwide organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault, through inspiring action and fueling a culture of change.

·      Young Life HS Camp work crew, for a month.

·      Young Lives (for teen moms) volunteering as a babysitter and filling other needs.

·      Jr. High Wild Life as a Junior Leader/Mentor.

·      Adaptive arts program for special needs students.

·      Partners Club, which works with kids with special needs.

·      Every 15 Minute Program at Wasilla High School, which brought awareness that “Every 15 min someone dies from an alcohol/texting related collision”.

·      Alaska Association of Student Government

·      Dance volunteer at summer camps

·      Started “Project Sandwich” and the “Prom Dress Drive” with the help of her mom. Program Sandwich provides bag lunches to those students in high school who would otherwise have nothing to eat over the weekend. The prom dress drive was started to help with start-up funds to others who want to bring this program to their schools.  This is NOT a school district program.

Madeline plans on attending Portland State this fall to pursue a degree in Special Education. 

About the Mat Su Sertoma Club:

The Mat Su Sertoma Club was founded in 2009 and sponsors the Mat Su Plunge annually to give back to the community.  The Plunge is scheduled for February 20, 2020. Mark the date! Like us on Facebook!

Halloween Hallow: A Mat-Su Special Santa Program Fundraiser

Contributed by Katrina Holder

Halloween Hallow
10/31/2019 – 3PM

Mat-Su Special Santa
Alaska State Fairgrounds

2075 Glenn Hwy. Palmer

Cost: $6 or 1 Unrapped Toy

Halloween Hollow is the largest fundraiser for the Mat-Su Special Santa Program. The program helps provide gifts to families in need during Christmas time in the Valley. Last year, the program helped 3,546 children from 1,220 families. The program is partners with The Salvation Army and Toys 4 Tots, who help us provide each child with 2-3 gifts, stocking stuffers, and winterwear.

Halloween Hollow is on Halloween evening from 3pm-8pm at Raven Hall on the Alaska State Fairgrounds. This event is a fun, warm, safe place for families to come trick-or-treating. With over 30 booths to play games and get candy, there isn’t a shortage of fun! There will also be several food trucks on-site, that include Jenny’s Coffee House, Waffles and Whatnot, Smokehouse BBQ and Donut Burger.

Entry into the event is $6 a person, ages 2 and up, or one unwrapped toy. Tickets are available on Eventbrite or at the door.

Family Promise Mat-Su to Participate in First Ever Giving Day Event

Local non-profit to join Family Promise National’s Giving Day

 Contributed by Family Promise Mat-Su

 On October 25th, Family Promise Mat-Su will participate in Family Promise’s first Giving Day, a one-day online event to raise awareness of Family Promise and the crisis of family homelessness in the U.S.

 The non-profit is one of 80 Family Promise affiliates nationwide participating in a campaign to raise $1 million for families experiencing homelessness.

 “We are excited to participate in Family Promise’s first Giving Day”, said Interim Executive Director, Ginger Bear. “We hope to be able to significantly contribute to our national affiliate’s goal… any donations given during this event will go directly to the affiliate you choose. Our local goal is $5,000, collectively, the national goal is $1 million.

For information on Family Promise Giving Day and Family Promise Mat-Su, please reach out to Ginger at 907-357-6160.

Food, Fun & Scholarships: The Elmendorf-Richardson Spouses’ Club Gives Back Once Again!

Contributed by Amber French & Kristin Sperling

The Elmendorf-Richardson Spouses’ Club Country Fair                                        

10/26/2019 - 10AM

The Elmendorf-Richardson Spouses’ Club

JBER Buckner Fitness Center

Cost: $1 General/ FREE Ages 0-12

It’s that time of year again! The Elmendorf-Richardson Spouses’ Club is hosting their annual country fair on October 26th! 

Held every fall at Buckner Fitness Center on JBER for all the surrounding communities of Southcentral Alaska, the country fair is one of the two ERSC fundraisers which provide scholarships for military dependents. For the 2018-2019 year, the proceeds from the country fair combined with the Spring Scholarship Gala provided $17,900 in scholarships to 10 military dependents and spouses which were awarded in May.

The ERSC, formerly known as the Fort Richardson Spouses’ Club, is a supportive network made up of military spouses from all military branches and ranks for over 40 years. Their goal is to provide opportunities and a sense of community for military spouses through activities, leadership opportunities and service.

The ERSC gives back to our local communities in many different ways ,including community service and charitable grants. The ERSC works closely with Last Frontier Honor Flight by providing care bags for our veterans’ flights to the nation’s capital as well as joining in the celebration of their return. The ERSC also actively supports Wreaths Across America, and in 2018 helped to double the amount of wreaths that were placed at the Fort Richardson National Cemetery in December. In 2018-2019 the ERSC also granted over $28,000 in charitable grants to various groups throughout Southcentral Alaska who support military-affiliated personnel and their families. 

The country fair is in-turn an opportunity for the local communities to help support the ERSC Scholarship Program, just by enjoying what Alaskan artisans and craftsmen have to offer! 

The country fair is being held from 10am-5pm on October 26th, and is a large open-to-the-public event. Admission is $1, all of which goes to the scholarship program, with ages, 12 and under, free. Traffic can gain access to base through the Fort Richardson Gate, and will be directed to the fitness center. You will not need base access to go to the fair. 

Like the air show, the local community will be able to take part, but must follow base rules while in attendance. Air Force Security Forces will be monitoring this event to ensure the safety of vendors and attendees.

Over 120 vendor booths of Alaskan-made products as well as local military groups selling meals and snacks make this a fun shopping experience for everyone! For over 41 years the Country Fair has provided an opportunity for local communities to explore and support Alaskan artisans while helping military dependents achieve their dreams.

 

 

 

Date Change for Myth, Meaning & Magic Bullets Workshop

 Contributed by Laura Wagner, Alaska Attachment & Bonding Associates 

Myth, Meaning & Magic Bullets Workshop

2/22/2020 – 8:30AM

Alaska Attachment & Bonding Associates

Everett’s

1850 E Bogard Rd. Wasilla

Tickets: $150

 Due to unforeseen circumstances, we had to postpone the workshop until a later date. The instructor lives in the east where all the bad weather is occurring.

 This is a very important workshop for families and professionals who care for children with trauma and stressor-related disorders, such as: Attachment Disorder, Attachment Disruption, PTSD, and Anxiety

Disorder. Registration is opened now for the class. Don’t wait. Please go to www.akattachment.org and reserve a seat.

 When adults know how to support a child’s healthy development and can create experiences for learning, children grow up with the curiosity and confidence they need to succeed in school and life. They all play an important role in nurturing a child’s development, leaning and health.

 We can help children have a strong start in life by ensuring that all the adults in their lives are equipped with the best information, coaching, resources and support they need to help the children in their care grow and thrive.

Do the 2019 Mat-Su Turkey Trot!

Contributed by L. Nolan 

2019 Mat-Su Turkey Trot
11/23/2019 – 10AM
Skinny Raven Sports
Sunny Knik Chapel
Tickets: $15

Come out and join us for a turkey trot on November 23, 2019 at 10am.

We welcome runners and walkers from all over Southcentral Alaska to Mile 14 KGB to try-out our 5K course.

Let Skinny Raven clock your new PR on our route that includes portions of the historic Iditarod Trail.

Cool down or warm up afterwards with healthy fall treats, courtesy of Sunny Knik Chapel.

International ultra-marathoner, Andrew Berkoski, will be on-site to encourage all racers and share running tips. Mr. Berkoski, a 4th grade teacher and X-Country coach, has run ultras in five continents, including Antarctica. He's a dynamic speaker who hopes to share what keeps him going as he logs on the miles when he gives our post-race pep talk.

There will be prizes for 1st-3rd place men, women and kids, oldest runner, youngest runner and best Turkey costume.
Bring a friend and have a great day with us at the Mat-Su Turkey Trot.
Register at www.skinnyraven.com. Call 907-521-1180 for more information or to get a free ½-price registration code.

Big Lake Lions Christmas Bazaar

Contributed by Jamie Estes, Big Lake Lions Club 

Big Lake Lions Christmas Bazaar
December 7-8, 2019 – 11AM
Big Lake Lions Club
East Lake Mall
3261 Big Lake Rd. Big Lake
FREE Event

 Christmas is a time of year where we gather with those we love, wrap-up in our warm winter coats, sing carols and go to as many Christmas bazaars we can fit into a short amount of time.

 The Big Lake Lions Club has been hosting a Christmas bazaar in the community of Big Lake for over three decades. One weekend a year, we take over the East Lake Mall with friends, family, vendors, community members and SANTA to celebrate the best time of the year. We host over 30 vendors selling all kinds of handmade items… from Jennifer’s fudge, infused glass art, night lights, jewelry, ornaments, the famous Christmas spiders… to entrepreneurs selling Color Street Nails, LuluRoe, Scentsy and many more. We also like to take time to spend with SANTA CLAUS. He will be making an appearance from 1:00pm until 4:00pm.

The Big Lake Lions Club has been serving the community of Big Lake for 40 years! In that time, we have accomplished many things and we hope to continue to serve to serve our community and achieve much more in the coming years.

By coming out and supporting our Christmas bazaar, you support us in continuing our vision screening and providing glasses to those in need, diabetes research, keeping our recreation center open for free skate on the weekends and helping those in need with holiday meals.

 Come and visit us December 7th, 11:00am-6:00pm, and December 8th, 11:00am-5:00pm at the East Lake Mall in Big Lake.

Senior Education Fall Classes 

WEB COMMUNITY - Senior Education Fall Classes (Santa with Author, Laura Downing Bills).jpg

Contributed by Linda Myers-Steele

Senior Education is a program for those 50+ years who want to keep active and continue lifelong learning. Classes are offered free (except for occasional supplies as needed). The fun part is there are no tests, no grades, no homework…

Wasilla Senior Center, 1301 Century Circle, Wasilla, hosts the classes at no charge, and all of the presenters are volunteers. Volunteers who are experts in their field!  Please join us. No registration required unless noted in the class description, senioreducationwasilla@gmail.com.

 NOVEMBER SCHEDULE

 Election Day – Don’t forget to vote!   (No Senior Education classes)
Tuesday, November 5th

 WOMEN IN THE MILITARY
Tuesday, November 12th, 3:00pm-4:00pm

Hear the experiences of a woman who entered the military and rose to the rank of Brigadier General in the Alaska Air Guard, by Sharon “Sully” Diefenderfer, Brigadier General, Retired.

 BOOK CLUB “I READ WHAT I WANT TO READ”
Tuesday, November 19th, 3:00pm-4:00pm

Participants will be given an opportunity to share a summary of their book of interest with others. Learn from others about books that might interest you.  Facilitator: Andi Nations, Retired Public School Educator/Non-Profit Facilitator

ALASKA WILDBIRD REHABILITATION CENTER
Tuesday, November 26th, 3:00pm-4:00pm

AWRC will care for any wild bird in need, whether injured, sick or orphaned.  Kind-hearted members of the public find injured birds and either rescue them or ask for advice. When a bird arrives at the Center, its needs are evaluated and their experience to care for the bird is done in the best way possible. Presenter: Jill Parsons, WildBird Rehabilitation Center Volunteer

 DECEMBER SCHEDULE

 AUTHOR OF THE BOOK SERIES, “AUNT PHIL’S TRUNK”

Tuesday, December 3rd, 2:00pm-4:00pm

An Alaskan historian’s collection of treasured talents. You will find author, Laurel Downing Bill, interesting, fun and entertaining as she relays the stories of her Aunt Phil’s early life in Alaska beginning in 1912. We will also take some time to do a little celebrating of the holidays.

 BOOK CLUB “I READ WHAT I WANT TO READ”

Tuesday, December 10th, 3:00pm-4:00pm

Participants will be given an opportunity to share a summary of their book of interest with others. Learn from others about books that might interest you.  Facilitator: Andi Nations, Retired Public School Educator/Non-Profit Facilitator

Senior Education classes will take a break during the holiday season and return again after the first of the year; future classes to be announced. 

First Look at the 2019 Alaska State Fair

WEB COMMUNITY - First Look at the 2019 Alaska State Fair 2.jpg

Contributed by Melissa Keefe

With another year of hosting the state’s largest annual event under its belt, the Alaska State Fair is calling the 2019 event a success. The 2019 fair took place August 22nd-September 2nd at the fairgrounds in Palmer, where fairgoers for the most part enjoyed unseasonably warm, dry weather.

The fair saw increases in both AT&T Concert Series ticket sales, as well as attendance. Ticket sales at the ConocoPhillips Borealis Theatre were up 6.8 percent, driven by popular concerts such as Dustin Lynch, who drew more than 5,200 concert-goers, as well as near sell-outs for Shinedown and Cole Swindell performances. Meanwhile, total estimated attendance for 2019 was 303,989, a 2.8 percent increase over last year.

 That success extended to other fair events; there wasn’t an open seat in the BP Grandstand at the sold-out Demolition Derby and all three All Star Monster Trucks shows.

 Over in farm exhibits, the 4-H Junior Market Livestock Auction set yet another record, raising $257,000 from the sale of 76 animals this year - up $33,000 from last year.

 New records extended to the crops department, which saw 10 new state records set in the first and second entries, including melon, garlic, quinoa, sunflower, ginseng, hot pepper and pumpkin.

 There was a lot of excitement at the 14th Annual Alaska’s Midnight Sun Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off, with Dale Marshall taking first place with a state-record-breaking 2,051-pound pumpkin, and second place going to junior grower, Thomas Whitmire, and his 280-pound entry. 

 While there were no new records set in the 24th annual Giant Cabbage Weigh-Off, this year’s entries were still impressive, with first place going to Walter Chastain of Wasilla for his 77.5-pound cabbage.

“A big thank you for another great year. Whether you enjoyed old favorites or experienced a new adventure, we hope you enjoyed the 2019 Fair,” said Jerome Hertel, Alaska State Fair general manager. “To our employees, volunteers, vendors, entertainers, sponsors and, of course, our loyal customers, your efforts and attendance are greatly appreciated. Your hard work and dedication have made for another successful year.”

Watch the Alaska State Fair website and social media channels for additional details on the 2019 fair.

For more information, please visit www.alaskastatefair.org or contact Melissa Keefe, marketing and communications manager, at mk@alaskastatefair.org or 907-746-7166.