PALMER BUZZ: Get to know the Wednesday Knitting Club

They bring their knitting and sit around the table. There is casual talk and a thick aura of peace and contentment. It happens every Wednesday in Palmer, at NonEssentials. It is titled “Lift the Spirits Gathering.” It starts around noon and lasts for about two hours. Usually there is some coffee or sweetbread. But the focus is on friendship and community. Not money. Not sales. Not politics. Not religion. Just sweet chat which is warm and fills you up.

Community Fiber—Knitters also show up at the Palmer Downtown Deli. And a wonderful weaver threads her shuttle through her small portable loom at Vagabonds. Some men knit too. And crocheted rabbits are all the rage right now. It’s not only yarn fiber but rich fiber of the community. All are welcome.

Big Changes in the Works—We have all heard about the highway upgrade which is scheduled for this summer. This upgrade promises a bit of construction agitation around major intersections in Palmer. We’ve heard about U-Haul leasing the old Freddy’s—which will mean a change to the complexion of Palmer, near the post office. We’ve also heard that the Peking Restaurant block is on the market, which could mean another big alteration. Let’s keep our eyes open and our stress down.

The Green Gallop—sloshed around Palmer on Sunday. Dedicated runners and walkers and a few bikers navigated the slush and ice on their personal quests. Green was the color but pride and perseverance were the engine. Volunteers cheerleaders and the Mat Su Running Club offered a “water station.” This event was sponsored by our wonderful Active Soles Performance Footwear shop who promotes the Happy Runs and many other cool pedestrian events in our town.

Prize for Clear Walkways—Without a doubt, the Main Street block, south of the four-way stop, wins the prize. Walkers thank you so much. Maybe it was the elves from Klondike or maybe it was the Peak Boutiquers. Perhaps if was Jeff Johnson. This is also the block that has the Palmer Bar, Garden Gate, Artist’s Uncorked, and Miss Moffit’s. Whoever did the shoveling and scraping deserves a huge congratulations for keeping a section of the Palmer sidewalks clean and safe.

Pie is Better In Palmer—It was a big Pi Day in Palmer last week. 3.14 is always a great day to celebrate Einstein’s birthday and pi. It had special significance with the death of well-loved Stephen Hocking. Pie was on the menu at all the shops and an unscientific survey showed that Palmer consumed nearly 240 pieces of Pie between Vagabonds, Valley Hotel and the Downtown Deli. Oh…..and we don’t just go for simple flavors. Here is a list of flavors: strawberry, mixed berry, blueberry, blackberry, coconut cream, cherry

Scandinavian spiced custard, chocolate, peanut butter, banana cream, and lemon meringue. And for the record there was also Chicken pot pie.

History Night—is Wednesday night. Gerry Keeling and Dave Mathews will be sharing information about the Colony House Museum. This happens at the Palmer Moose Lodge on March 21 at 7pm. And don’t forget there are always good people there along with refreshments.

Palmer Choose Respect March—This is the annual positive march that happens statewide. It involves everyone and anyone who values freedom of speech and respect for all. This isn’t a political parade. Law enforcement personnel, students, court employees,neighbors, seniors, businesses, churches, and leaders gather together to say no to domestic violence, sexual assault and bullying. The March begins on Thursday, March 22 at the MTA Events Parking lot around 11:30.

March Marimba—The Palmer percussionist, Meggie Aube-Trammell is offering some wonderful music this Saturday afternoon at 4pm, FREE, at the Palmer Downtown Deli. Marimba music is totally delightful and goes really well with a cannoli and coffee. This is a family friendly event.

Also Coming Up in Palmer: Cobb St. Market is having a chalk class this weekend on Saturday. NonEssentials is having a DARK CHOCOLATE class, along with other classes by Winona Benson, Palmer’s Nourished Health Coach. Saturday night is a Chef Mike Fritz prepared “Prime Rib Fundraiser” at the Moose lodge for a local Cancer mom. And later Saturday night live Music will happen at Klondike's of course. Sunday is Palmer Renaissance day at the Downtown Deli. Painters will be there, along with an amazing model. Some musicians may show and knitters and Palmer arts will be flourishing.