Mat Su Plunge
Palmer Elks Lodge, February 15th
Contributed
by
Paula Nance
The fresh scent of Alaskan air and people jumping into freezing water! Say goodbye to cabin fever, it’s getting wild in Wasilla, Alaska. It’s the event people love! Mat Su Sertoma’s 16th Anniversary of the Original Valley Dip expects substantial numbers to join in the shenanigans! This year’s event is hosted by the Palmer Elks Lodge, on Saturday, February 15, 2025.
Participants from all over the world dress head to toe in colorful costumes to help raise money for hearing health and the local community.
Jean Stanefski, the president of the Mat-Su Sertoma Club, said that although the event requires a lot of preparation and challenging work, the outcome is always worth it.
“Despite weird weather, the community at large turns out to support our annual event. Alaskan’s never stand for the status quo, that’s why the local plunge has been so successful,”
said Stanefski. The event needs lots of volunteers and our sponsorships are second to no other. To jump at the event, each participant must raise a minimum of $100 while most jumpers look to score the Annual Biggest Fund Raiser Iceberg Award.
Sertoma has numerous scholarships available to local youth and young adults. Funds go to Mat Su Sertoma Summer Camp Scholarship Winners and a substantial donation will be provided to the Colony High School American Sign Language Honor Society Club.
Stanefski said “Life is short. So come on and join us! You’ve got to have a little fun! It’s something everyone should try at least once. So, scratch this one off your bucket list and come have a blast.”
More information can be obtained at www.matsuhearing.org or contact Jean Stanefski at 907-4141571 for further information. Hope to see you there!
Contributed by Brenda McCain, Willow Winter Carnival Committee
All Alaskans are invited to enjoy the 63rd State Winter Carnival in Willow, celebrating “The Year of the Malamute,” from January 25 to February 7, 2025, at the Willow Community Center, located at 69.5 Parks Highway. This historic event offers activities for all ages to enjoy both indoors and outdoors, as well as along trails throughout the community. The festivities begin on Saturday, January 25th, with the exciting new Su Dog 300-mile sled dog race, featuring 25 teams departing at 2 PM. That evening, doors open at 6 PM for Carnival Bingo, which starts at 7 PM. On Monday, January 27th, as Su Dog teams make their return, attendees can enjoy a soup-tasting contest for just $5, allowing participants to taste and vote for their favorites.
The full carnival weekend kicks off on Friday, January 31st, with the Carnival Kick-Off Dinner. Doors open at 5 PM, featuring the Local Artists’ Quick Draw and the start of the Alaskan Art Silent Auction. At 6 PM, enjoy a dinner of ribs, beans, coleslaw, and cake. This popular event often sells out, and tickets must be purchased in advance at Newman’s Hilltop Marathon, Roni’s Deli, or the Willow Library. Ticket prices are $25 for ages 16 and up, $17 for ages 8 to 15, and free for children under 7 (a ticket is still required). The evening will also include the crowning of the Carnival King and Queen and will conclude with a spectacular
fireworks display by Gorilla Fireworks.
On Saturday, February 1st, and Sunday, February 2nd, the Willow Elementary PTA will serve their wellloved breakfast from 8 AM to 11 AM.
Carnival activities will run from 10 AM to 4 PM each day. Admission to the carnival is free, with parking costing just $1 per carload; every attendee will receive a door prize ticket. While some competitions require an entry fee, there will be a variety of free and affordable activities to enjoy.
Indoor activities include stage performances, a cribbage tournament, local vendors, an ice cream eating contest, a scholarship pie auction, a mini-raffle, and the sale of Malamute shirts, pins, and magnets. Attendees can also visit the carnival kitchen for refreshments and participate in many more fun-filled events. Large raffle tickets will also be available, with the grand prize being an ATV and many other great prizes.
Outdoor activities include a vintage snowmachine show and snowmachine competitions such as the poker run, blind driver event, and radar run. Guests can also enjoy outhouse races, a snowshoe scavenger hunt,
Who Was Carl Ben Eielson?
Alaskan History Magazine Returns
Contributed by Helen Hegener, Northern Light Media
Alaskan History Magazine features stories and photos of the people, places and events which shaped the history of Alaska. Published by Wasilla-based Northern Light Media and edited by Alaskan author Helen Hegener, the magazine first ran for three years, from May-June 2019 through July-August, 2021, when the covid-19 pandemic forced cancellation.
The fourteen issues originally published are still available in both print and Kindle print replica editions at the website:
https://alaskanhistorymagazine.com
There are a few changes to the current edition of Alaskan History Magazine, and foremost among those changes will be single issue only sales, with no subscriptions, but every issue will remain available, and the first new issue will be available in mid-January. Other changes from the original magazine include a b/w interior instead of color, 6” x 9” format instead of 8.5” x 11,” and the page count may vary between 48 and 64, depending on content. Issues will be identified by volume and number, but not dated, as history is timeless.
The first issue includes the history of Tanana, the story of the newspaper which was the distant forerunner of today’s Anchorage Daily News, the New Zealand writer whose grandfather built the Ohio Roadhouse northwest of Fairbanks, the final fatal visit to Alaska made by the great humorist Will Rogers and his best friend and pilot Wiley Post, and why the Alaska Central Railroad failed and how it became part of the government-run Alaska Railroad which still travels the rails today.
Order your copy for $12.00 postpaid at at the website: https://alaskanhistory magazine.com
Mat-Su Home Builders Association Kicks Off Second Annual “Coats for Kids” Project
Contributed by Sarah Lazzarotto
For the second year in a row, the Mat-Su Home Builders Association (MSHBA), with the support of local sponsors Vannoy Electric and WM Construction, is proud to launch its Coats for Kids program. This annual initiative is designed to help Mat-Su Valley families ensure their children have the proper winter gear to stay warm and comfortable during Alaska’s colder months.
Since 1976, MSHBA has been dedicated to addressing the growing needs of the Mat-Su Valley community, not just through
Contributed by Matt Rowley
The Alaska Farm and Garden Show is a new event for 2025, coming to the Menard Center in Wasilla on February first and second. Snow is still on the ground, but we all know how fast summer arrives… This show is an opportunity to get in the mindset and prepare for the rapidly approaching Alaskan Summer.
its mission of promoting quality and attainable housing, but through impactful charitable efforts. The organization’s Charitable Building Committee spearheads initiatives such as disaster relief assistance, aging-in-place accessibility programs for seniors, and youth trade-training and job readiness programs. Last year, the committee introduced Coats for Kids, and thanks to overwhelming community support, it has returned for its second year.
This year, the committee has once again partnered with local schools to distribute $20 gift cards from Value Village and Goodwill, adding MyHouse’s Steamdriven
Boutique and Thrifters Rock. These cards will be provided to 48 schools across the Mat-Su Valley, with each school receiving 5 or more cards. School administrators and staff, who work closely with students and families, will help ensure these gift cards are put into the hands of those who need them most.
“After the success of last year’s program, we knew we had to continue Coats for Kids as an annual effort,” said Sarah Lazzarotto, Mat-Su Home Builders Association’s executive director. “Our community is the foundation of everything we do, and we are honored to support local families by
providing children with access to winter gear. With the help of our sponsors and local schools, we can make sure kids across the Valley are ready to embrace the colder months.”
The Mat-Su Home Builders Association would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to sponsors Vannoy Electric and WM Construction for their continued support of this important program. For more information about the Coats for Kids program or to learn how you can support future charitable initiatives led by the Mat-Su Home Builders Association, please visit www.matsuhomebuilders.com.
You’ll meet hundreds of vendors at the Farm & Garden Show. The vendors and exhibitors are small Alaskan businesses, and they come with a wealth of information, experience, and products for all your garden, farm, or homestead needs.
Free seminars and classes will be going on all weekend. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn! Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens; explore growing vegetables in Alaska, including soil fundamentals, testing, growing mediums, seed starting, lights, and pest management; discover tips for starting and growing dahlias; consider alternative and solar
energy options in Alaska; understand the basics of raising livestock, including cows, goats, and chickens; uncover the benefits and fundamentals of cultivating Rhodiola Rosea in Alaska; master sourdough starts and sourdough baking; gain knowledge in basic first aid, including how to respond effectively to severe life-threatening bleeding in emergencies; and explore plant and vegetable growing alternatives such as hydroponics, aeroponics, aquaponics, and grow tents.
The complete seminar schedule can be found online at: www.akfarmandgarden.com/seminars We hope to see you at the Alaska Farm and Garden Show, February 1st and 2nd at the Menard Center, Saturday 10-6, and Sunday 11-5. Adult admission is $10, and kids under 12 are free. The show is hosted by MATSU Events, and is sponsored by White Spruce Trailer Sales, Alaska Rhodiola, 95.5 The Pass Radio, and The People’s Paper. Details at matsuevents.com
Ken’s Cast Iron Kitchen: 4 Ingredient METZA PIZZA
Contributed by Ken Hagler
The New Year is here! What about the new you?? We have personally tested and tweaked every recipe I share in my kitchen, and they have all passed our picky eater taste test. This budget-friendly recipe is versatile and works well to fit your taste buds and works with a low carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
• 1/2 pound (225 grams) ground
Italian sausage
1/4 cup (60 grams) pizza sauce (go for low or no sugar)
1/3 cup (40 grams) shredded cheese
(your favorite!)
Your favorite pizza toppings
If you want a less greasy, less messy dish, use a leaner sausage, such as chicken sausage. Alternatively, you
Joyful Living
Contributed by Linda Pelton
Well, the Holidays are past, and we are in the clutches of Winter! The incredible beauty of the area is awe inspiring, on clear days mountain ranges are breathtaking, ice designs are exquisite especially in sunlight. Still the mostly dark cold days are a challenge! Each January I have a lovely presentation of flowers and fresh greens, candles and a few favorite keepsakes set out over
can season any type of ground meat to make your own sausage (like moose!)
Instructions
1. In a cast iron skillet, shape ground sausage into a thin circle and bake at 375°F until fully cooked.
2. Drain excess fat from the sheet, then add sauce, cheese, and toppings to the sausage.
3. Return the skillet to the oven until the cheese is melted and browned, 10–15 minutes.
Got questions or comments, let me know! If you noticed a change in recipes, you are right! Our family has returned to health and if you are interested, contact me at kenhagler+healthy@gmail.com or visit https://ufeelgreat.com/c/Alaskan.
a tablecloth on my dining room table. I also like to create couple of cozy areas to enjoy. My recliner with a heated throw, soft blankets and throw pillows on the sofas and warm lights. I have books and projects set aside just for mid-Winter. My Granddaughter Ashley created a Hot Chocolate and Hot Apple Cider Bar! It is a delight for her children and company as well. For a breakfast treat add Hot Chocolate mix into pancake batter, cook and serve with whip cream, yummy! You can add sprinkles and other toppings.
MY House Opens 3.1 Residential Treatment Center
Contributed by Isaac Smoldon
The MYHouse Youth Drop-in center opened their first ever residential treatment center on Monday, January 6th in Wasilla Alaska. This center exclusively serves clients aged 18-25 that have been assessed at a 3.1 level of care, which is a behavioral health diagnosis that recommends residential care for Substance Use Disorder.
“We are dedicated to serving a population of transitional aged youth with this program,” said Bryan Fields, the Program Manager of Behavioral Health services for MY House. “This population is underserved in our state, and this program will save lives and enhance our community as a whole.” Youth enrolled in this program receive
mental and behavioral health treatment services, while also obtaining job-training and life skills from certified peer support and behavioral health professionals.
“This wrap-around approach is a key part of what has allowed MY House youth to be so successful over the past 13 years of operations,” stated CEO and Founder Michelle Overstreet. “We have developed this program in record time with little-to-no outside funding because it is a critical gap in our service continuum. This treatment program will allow youth who need increased services to recover in a supportive environment with their peers, so that they can go and do great things in our community.”
to my-
and click the
Creekside Plaza 1830 E Parks Highway, Wasilla MON-WED 10-6, THUR-SAT 10-7, SUN 12-6 These brands and more!
907-376-5403 www.northerncomfortwear.com
Palmer Alehouse Tap Tour
Contributed by Corey Brister, Director of Operations and Entertainment Drink Beer from Here!
We’re kicking off our annual spring event, the Palmer Alehouse Tap Tour, on Wednesday January 29! For the next 12 weeks we’ll be featuring beers made exclusively by Alaskans! Come to Palmer Alehouse every Wednesday at 6pm to meet the team who makes your favorite beer, try some new things, and maybe even win a prize or two! We have brewery friends coming from Juneau,
McGhan
Contributed by Debra
It’s been a long-time dream for Alaska Safe Riders (ASR) to have a mobile classroom. Imagine the snow and winds blowing at ten degrees and you’re standing around waiting for training to begin. Or you’re just cold and uncomfortable for a hundred other reasons. Now picture yourself inside a cozy, heated classroom with a hot cup of coffee or chocolate watching a safety video loaded with useful information. Or instead of fumbling with frigid fingers while trying to locate a spark plug or belt on a snowmachine, you’re inside
Fairbanks, and everywhere in between!
Week 1: Bleeding Heart Brewery (Palmer) - January 29
• Week 2: Midnight Sun Brewing (Anchorage) - February 5
Week 3: HooDoo Brewing (Fairbanks)February 12
Week 4: Denali Brewing (Talkeetna)February 19
Week 5: 49th State Brewing (Anchorage & Healy) - February 26
Week 6: Bearpaw River Brewing (Wasilla) - March 5
“This new classroom is amazing,” said Buck. “It gives us the ability to carry and protect all of our training equipment so our students have the tools needed for them to learn, practice and test before they ever need to buy.”
When a deep chill begins to creep up your back and your fingers are getting numb, it’s tough to pay attention and learn. So having a warm place to get out of those elements is important. Until now, both the instructors and the students have just had to tough it out.
“This trailer is a big game changer,” said Buck. “It makes so many more things possible. We can roll into any school, community, or trailhead and have all of our gear already organized
or in person at check-in. Ski Tour: The 4K tour begins at 1:00
(Fairbanks) - March 19 Week 9: Turnagain Brewing (Anchorage) - March 26
Week 10: Glacier Brewhouse (Anchorage) - April 2
Week 11: Girdwood Brewing (Girdwood) - April 9
Week 12: Lazy Mountain Brewing (Palmer) - April 16
Cheers, Palmer! Palmer Alehouse
month building out this trailer to provide seating for six to eight students for field classes, room for up to four ATVs or snowmachines, storage cabinets and more.
“We’ve already had the opportunity to take it to Eureka for both our instructor and public training courses,” said Buck. “The feedback from students and instructors was super positive. Everyone is benefiting from this new equipment,” he said. “We are confident that this is going to really make it a good experience for instructors and students.”
Andy Schultz, who attended a recent training in Eureka agreed. “The mobile classroom was great. It was warm and spacious while it was negative temps outside. The ability to have a machine and gear inside for demonstration allowed us to focus on what Mike was saying, instead of focusing on staying warm. The TV will be an excellent aide for future classes. I can’t wait for the next level course!”
Buck has scheduled a number of public courses over the next few weeks and months where you’ll be able to experience the new mobile classroom for yourself. Get the full schedule or request a course for your school or community at AlaskaSafeRiders.org
Photos: The new mobile classroom. All photos by Mike Buck
pm. Costumes are encouraged, so get creative! Potluck: After skiing, warm up at the Chalet with a community potluck. This cherished tradition offers more than just food – it’s