Statehood party put off by cold

WASILLA — Sub-zero weather isn’t just making for frosty toes and fingers in the Mat-Su Valley, it’s also ruining plans for a local Alaska at 50 celebration.

Tedman Allen, recreation coordinator for Wasilla, said the event will be postponed until Jan. 10 in the hopes warmer temperatures will move back in.

“The military doesn’t do PT [physical training] at any colder than 10 below,” Allen said. “I figured people wouldn’t want to be out sledding and enjoying the day if it’s gonna be that cold.”

The National Weather Service is predicting temperatures from -17 degrees to -24 degrees in Wasilla on Saturday, when the event was initially planned at Iditapark.

Not only is that temperature just plain uncomfortable to be out in, Allen said it also poses health and safety concerns.

“It’s not good for your lungs either,” Allen said.

The event was slated to begin at 2 p.m., featuring ice skating, sledding, a bonfire and music. Coffee, hot chocolate and treats would have also been available.

Cold air has been a fixture in the Valley, along with the rest of Alaska, for more than a week. Meteorologists with the National Weather Service have blamed a high-pressure system and clear skies for the well-below-zero temperatures.

By midday Wednesday, Palmer had a high of -17, with Wasilla Airport reading at -13.

Allen said the celebration will only take place Jan. 10 if the temperature is -10 or warmer when the events and food are planned to be available.

Contact Michael Rovito at michael.rovito@frontiersman.com or 352-2252.