Important epicenter at Palmer fair

In every town, there is a main square or meeting place. In Palmer proper, the center logically surrounds the Community Center also known as the Train Depot. In other places it may be not as clear but there is always something that draws people to the symbolic center. At the Alaska State Fair this “main square or meeting place” is Pioneer Plaza, which is far more recognizable as the oval in front of Raven Hall and the Livestock Pavillon. You know the place. It is where all the trails converge and there are many benches and seating areas surrounding it. It is where parents meet their kids or friends connect. For years it was also the epicenter exhibit, often interactive, and mostly always interesting and enticing. There were the sand sculpture artists who took days and days to perfect a fabulous sand monument. There were the beautiful floral presentations with wired ravens and creatures intricately built out of thousands of individual plants. There were forgettable screaming acts of motorcycles ridden inside a metal cage. The Fair decision on what to present in this important convergence show-space requires thoughtful planning.

A Circular Pause—For the last two years there have been baby goats at the circular Pioneer Plaza—Goat-a-palooza. These goats have a full playground of ladders, ramps, tunnels and rocks along with a clever little crooked house. It is a very low key exhibit but perhaps the very best the Fair has ever offered. People of all ages are drawn to this spot magnetically because of baby goat magic. It changes minute by minute but always stays the same. It is predictably peaceful and perfect. Not only does it offer enjoyment but it also offers a pause from all the fair excitement and stimulation in all surrounding directions. It reminds me of city planners’ request to construct a fountain in the middle of the city—it is continually refreshing and satisfies the public need to stop and enjoy a moment in the middle of fun busyness and competing activities.

All Things Goat—If you are a goat lover, the Goat-a-palooza it is a magic place that is magnetic. If you are not a goat lover, you might soon become one, after watching these lovable creatures. Goats are a thing. And why not? They are vibrant, childlike little rompers with huge curious eyes and playful spirits. It is hard to not smile when a small goat comes over to you and makes that goofy little “maa maa” sound with its tiny tongue wobble. The tribe of goats are from the Cottonwood Creek Farms and it feels as if they were bred specifically for happiness and amusement. A goat saying is “take that bad day and head butt it in the face.” This slogan applies to our State Fair goats and as some say, goats are cheaper than therapy. The acronym GOAT translates into “greatest of all time” and in this case the Fair goats are GOAT. It’s a great presentation.

Alaska State Fair Sluice Box—Now the Sluice Box has been an iconic landmark of the Fair and this year it changed—remodeled, rebuilt and expanded. It was a painful change initially. Many have had wonderful memories (if they can still remember) of crazy, good times sitting at the awkward picnic tables listening to fabulous musical acts. The whole idea of change is difficult to swallow. But change is often necessitated by other factors and in this case, health and safety were part of the process. The newly constructed Sluice Box has been given a new chance this year and it is not disappointing. First of all, It is not moist, like the old Sluice box. It is dry and airy and far bigger. The floor is even and the roof doesn’t slope down in places. The acoustics aren’t terrific but no doubt that will be improved. It feels pretty good when you’re in it and the space will serve a multitude of musical gigs. The bathrooms are so much better. And the beer is fine. Many frown and resent change—but at the Alaska State Fair the “changed up Sluice Box” still offers the ability to “sluice,” which is defined as, the ability to enjoy music without being soaked by rain or buffeted by wind. As a “sluicer” I will remember and honor the original but appreciate the new. Happy sluicing!

Five Days Left—The Fair is over in FIVE DAYS so make sure you enjoy it before it is gone. It is packed with joy.

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