First big Palmer parade of the season

It was a few days ago and it did not disappoint. There were “twenty minutes of tractors,” horses, reindeers, smaller animals, bagpipers, hundreds of flags, thousands of people, children, community collectives, sports teams, scouts, water towers, antique vehicles, fancy cars, politicians, firetrucks, massive trucks, beauty queens, linemen, first responders and so many great floats. The second summer parade coming up in Palmer is the Alaska State Fair parade in August. The third parade of lights is at year’s end during holiday time.

Tractors Rule—There was every color and style of tractor participating followed by old trucks, antique cars and specialty rigs. Firetrucks were shined up. The Scottish Bagpipers blew it out of the water, with their pipes and kilts. The Colony Marching Band performed well in their excellent parade entry.

Parade Work—How many towns have three excellent parades a year? Palmer does it so well. It is important to note that parade production is no small thing. The planning and preparation is extensive. Volunteers and participants put many hours into creating parade entries. The city and volunteers prepare the route and safety precautions. The parade may in fact only last two hours, but the preparation is hundreds of hours. And then there is the take-down which takes a long time as well. It is appropriate to note that the Palmer Chamber of Commerce has organized this “Harvest of Gold” edition of the annual palmer parade for many years and it was sponsored by NIT & UMV.

Animal Shelter Success—Last weekend many homeless animals found homes. Can you imagine what it is like to live in a shelter? Of course you would receive care, food and water. But the critical element of “belonging” is missing. (This lack of agency happens with both people and animals who are homeless.) Our Mat Su Borough Animal Shelter is a respite for lost animals and helps get animals new homes. Thank you to all the generous people who found room in their heart to help the animals.

Catch the Blooms This Week—This is the apogee of Wild Roses, Lilacs, Trollius and the very beginning of Peonies. This is such a sweet smelling time of year and a part of the year you don’t want to miss. There are far more flashier flower developments during our summer but this particular floral scent time is strong and worthy. This next week will be lilac week in Palmer town. Poppies are coming up and tulips and daffodils have finished their spring debut. And don’t forget Summer Solstice is only 10 days away!

Pop and Pouf—This is also the week of Dandelion Ecstasy. In a matter of hours you will see a dandelion present its full yellow head and suddenly become a milky pouf of exploding fuzz

Old Cars—South Main, which is the block of shops and bars south of the 4-way stop saw some major action this weekend. Many of the old cars were dreamy. The owners were proud and happy.

Palmer Planters—Palmer’s food planters are now in production. They are situated around town but primarily by the bike and pedestrian path which borders Valley Way beside the Alaska State Troopers and Palmer Police Department. A full volunteer gardening crew has every thing planted from last weekend’s planting day. Now it is up to the community to assist gently with the weeding and maintaining of these precious little gardens of food. If you haven’t seen this treasure, take a walk behind the Depot along the railroad trail.

Big Weekend—The 14th Annual Tribal Celebration and Health Fair is this weekend at the State Fair. There will be drumming and dancing, traditional foods, fun family activities, regalia, and health and wellness vendors. The event is organized by Knik Tribe and the Native Village of Eklutna. In and around Palmer there will be running races, auto races, live music, garage sales, markets, and more plant sales in the Palmer area. Moonstone Farm’s Railcar is open now on Thursdays and Saturdays!

Barbara Hunt is both Palmer writer and artist. She works hard to keep the robust pulse of Palmer, Alaska. She shares the good stuff on the weekly Palmer Alaska Buzz in the Mat Su Valley Frontiersman and daily on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Facebook Group. Contact at bhunt@mtaonline.net or text 907.315.3222