PALMER BUZZ: Chasing sunlight

It’s Palmer’s shortest time of sunlight. Peak, peek, peak, peek is the quiet cadence of our sun’s daily route, always low in the sky. It peeks over and over our many mountain peaks for about five hours a day. If you missed the first sunrise, then you still have a chance to catch one of the next several or catch the long, achingly beautiful sunset. Solstice really is a holy time in Alaska. Honoring the sun, what little there is, makes us appreciate its true value.

Palmer celebrates Solstice in a quiet and private manner. There are no large community bonfires, festivals or Sun Salutation events. Many gather privately or with friends to honor the darkness. Some have little fires to celebrate the sun’s return. Although dark, it is a joyous day, because we all know that henceforth the daylight will grow until it becomes a constant companion by June’s summer solstice. And likewise the public parties and festivals will resume in full flavor. Until then, stay safe, stay warm. Peak up at the sun! Happy Solstice!

PALMER HOLIDAYS FOR EVERYONE—The large and lovely Jewish Menorah, on South Alaska Street is a welcome holiday nod to all the faiths and cultures in Palmer. Christmas is in full force, but Solstice and Hanukkah, Ramadan, and Kwanza have their own dear followers and are cherished customs—which are welcome in PTown.

FIRES AND ICE—Bravo to the Palmer, Butte, Sutton and other volunteer fire departments who have been fighting fires almost daily. The last week has been hard for many in 99645. Families have lost their homes, outbuildings, lodges and pets. Palmer is famous for its generosity to folks in need and the Red Cross is paving the way to help assist these dear folks. Think about sharing with our friends and neighbors when fires take their awful toll. Ice has also claimed lives in the past week. Drive slow, especially over our bridges. Walk like a penguin—small steps, well balanced and attentive. Give pedestrians a break. If you’re in a big vehicle, it won’t hurt you to stop and let walkers cross the road—they’re negotiating the elements while you’re extra cushy and warm inside your rig. Be extra safe in these difficult conditions.

JOLABOKAFLOO—This is the wonderful “Jolly Book Flood” book and chocolate exchange at Vagabonds on Solstice Thursday at 4pm.

BELL RINGING—Every year they’re standing in the doorways, smiling and ringing and collecting alms for the poor. It’s a good thing. I’ve always thought it was a crime to walk by them without donating. The problem is that many of us no longer carry cash. So I’m learning to think ahead and carry some dollars, just so I can contribute and not feel guilty. In fact, there is lesson in this time honored tradition from the Salvation Army. Convenience does not excuse good behavior and good behavior involves carrying some contribution cash for the worthy red kettles. Thanks to the volunteers who are ringing the bells and doing the work.

CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM—You know the reindeer are getting ready for the big event and they have been in training. But on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 23 and 24, the Reindeer Farm in the Butte is open for visitors. Santa will be there and a bonfire. Reindeer sled rides and wagon rides will be available along with the reindeer tour, some crafts and indoor snowball fights! The little reindeer train will be running as well. It costs a few bucks, but remember reindeer need to eat a lot of food in prep for their circumpolar journey!

Merry Christmas and happy solstice!