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NOV 2024 > WRITTEN BY THE COMMUNITY > ALASKA OWNED & OPERATED

Safety On the Trail

Join us in making our borough the healthiest in Alaska. Become a member today!

Contributed by Debra McGhan healthymatsu.org/ membership

Alaska Safe Riders will be out exploring, teaching, and traveling Alaska’s trails and mountains this winter. You can join them to get an overview of the conditions, opportunities, or concerns, by checking out the ASR weekly Snow and Trail report on radio stations, social media, newspapers and at the ASR website this winter. “Alaska is an incredible place with so many great opportunities for riding and exploring,” said Mike Buck, ASR Executive Director. “Our goal is to help empower people to do this safely. And we start by providing information on what to be aware of, how to prepare, and what to do when things go off the rails.” Kicking off November 22, 2024, the reports will include current and forecasted conditions, safety tips and tricks, seminars and workshops, and all things snow you’ll want to know. When the ASR team sees a concern with overflow, we want everyone to know so you’ll hear, read or see that in the reports. Concerns for avalanche danger? Yep, those will be included too. You’ll learn about where to find great snow conditions, training opportunities, and much more. If you don’t hear or see anything about the places you ride and explore, you can help get that included by submitting observations at www.alaskasnow.org or emailing info@alaskasaferiders.org and share what you’re seeing and experiencing out there. This is a community effort and it will take all of us working together to make sure people are informed, aware and able to prepare for the conditions. This project is made possible thanks to support from Matanuska Telephone Association and the Mat-Su Health Foundation. Find the reports and learn more at www.alaskasaferiders.org/news/#trail-reports

INSIDE THIS EDITION:

End of an Era:

The Gallery in Palmer Closes After 40 Years

Contributed by The Gallery After four decades of bringing art, framing, and unique finds to Palmer, The Gallery will be closing its doors at the end of December. This bittersweet farewell comes as Joann Franks, a beloved community figure and the heart behind The Gallery, retires due to health concerns. For forty years, Joann has curated an exceptional space where locals could discover fine art, Alaska-made treasures, custom framing, and one-of-a-kind gifts.

The Gallery, located in the Colony Plaza off Colony Way, has always aimed to provide the best in customer service, using quality materials and showcasing a wide selection of art from both national and local artists. Joann, along with the Franks family, built this space not only as a business but as a community hub where art and memories were preserved with care and expertise. Her dedication extended to every aspect of the store, from purchasing and marketing to personally assisting customers in selecting just the right frame for their cherished pieces. With everything on sale, now is the time to stop by and explore the many treasures available before they’re gone. Small items and artwork are discounted by 50%, and the sale includes an array of furniture, antiques, jewelry, and unique gifts, each piece a reminder of The Gallery’s legacy. Framing services will remain available until the end, ensuring that Joann’s love for preserving memories will continue to serve the community one last time. For those looking to say a heartfelt goodbye to Joann, The Gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for her decades of service, creativity, and community spirit. To learn more, call The Gallery at 907745-1420. As The Gallery closes, it leaves behind a legacy of art, passion, and connection, having enriched the lives of countless Palmer residents and visitors alike. Thank you, Joann, for sharing your love of art with us all.

Roland Roberts Band’s Christmas Jam