Contributed by Tünde Tedd-
Last year I had the opportunity to interview Nolan and Megan Garvin, founders of the local Christmas Factory.

Contributed by Linda Myers-Steele -
This annual event will offer unique, high-quality items suitable for gifts and personal treasurers.

Contributed by Sharon Aubrey -
Like many Alaskans, I’ve attended the State Fair in Palmer for decades, and about two decades ago also worked it as an employee. However, this year I had the honor to host the Alaskan Book Booth at the Fair and experience new insight into the amazing intricacies and collaborations that make up this visiting tiny village.

Contributed by Ginger Bear, Interim Executive Director - Family Promise Mat-Su -
Know that giving a little makes a huge ripple effect in our community. From all of us to all of you, thank you so much.

Contributed by Julie Cascio, Mat-Su District, Cooperative Extension Service -
Wow, my neighbor’s apple trees are overflowing with apples this year! And these apples are bigger than in the past! The warm climate this year has helped apples grow well. Regular watering is helping the apples grow well, too.

Contributed by LuLu Small -
When I put the word out on my Facebook page, almost immediately people started responding, starting with Michele Stevens from the Petersville Community non-profit, who has been doing a LOT of ‘footwork’ including but not limited to securing the building, and gathering MANY other major corporate donations, along with traveling even more miles to get the word out.

Contributed by Major Mike Dryden, USAR Retired -
The State of Alaska Legislature has designated several special license plates for veterans, recipients of the Purple Heart Medal, veterans who have been a Prisoner of War (POW), veterans who are survivors of Pearl Harbor, and Gold Star Families. Plates are issued free of charge after proof of service or family loss is validated by the DVM…

Contributed by Elizabeth Elder -
This is the parable of the poppy seed. Not to be compared with the parable of the mustard seed. This seed is not as small, nor as mighty. But, it too, teaches a fine lesson.

Contributed by Marilyn Bennett -
For those of you who are on tenterhooks wondering if I won a ribbon for my garden art this year, I did. It was third place, but as it was my first Fair ribbon, I am treasuring it and plan to be even more creative next year.

Contributed by Steve Carrington -
I want to honor a Palmer leader who passed away this summer, Mayor George Carté. For me, George Carté was an excellent example of a servant leader…

Contributed by Janet Johnson -
Valley Republican Women of Alaska is a grass roots Republican women’s organization. We are a network of Republican leaders and activists with a mission to provide a positive forum for Republicans to share their views.

Contributed by Vic Kohring -
Our world has become an increasingly dark place. The drums of war and military conflict threaten many a nation and terrorism is a constant worry, especially here.

Contributed by Richard Christiansen -
Based in Eagle River, Alaska Celtic Pipes & Drums are very active in the greater Anchorage area, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and throughout South-Central Alaska, and have great fun teaching, performing, and competing.

Contributed by Richard Best -
You hear it all the time from folks that have just moved here, just visiting or those who have had to move away. “Palmer is different…” in a good way, but what makes it different?

Contributed by Patti Dubler -
For over 45 years, the Palmer Food Bank has helped our neighbors who struggle to feed their families. We rely on the generous people who are able to offer hope to their neighbors by making tax-deductible donations of food or money.

Contributed by Randi Perlman -
Fall is in the air! Cool, colorful days beckon us on a walk along our beautiful Valley trails, crisp, tasty apples beg to be baked into delectable goodies, and the scent of wood smoke begins to waft from chimneys.