What’s so ‘great’ about Palmer?

To the editor:

In a Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce insert in the Feb. 27 Frontiersman, an article on page 2, “Who is the GPCC,” became the subject of some discussion at our home.

To quote part of the article: “For over 30 years, the Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce has been key to creating and implementing a vision for a better Palmer. With government institutions, private businesses, member associations and non-profits, the GPCC has worked to stimulate and protect our economic interest and excellent quality of life we enjoy in Palmer and the surrounding areas.”

We know that the Chamber of Commerce is composed of member businesses and concerned people. However, in the past 30 years, what has actually been improved, constructed and stimulated? Well, there is a playground and a skateboard area. But when all is said and done, it seems like there has been a lot more said, than done.

There is no place in Palmer to purchase children’s clothing.

There is no youth center.

There is no roller rink, or even a skating rink.

How about a bowling alley?

There is no theater or cultural arts center.

There is no Imaginarium-type of child center.

There is no comprehension of cleanliness or real beauty for the city. Why can’t people see the trash and cigarette butts on the sidewalks and streets? Maybe the businesses along them could do a little sweeping and someone give prizes for the best flowers or landscaping.

There are no really noticeable crosswalks, signs are hard to see, street painting is covered with snow, ice or dirt. Perhaps there could be 6-foot-high concrete posts painted yellow on these corners.

There has apparently been nothing done for the old Matanuska Dairy buildings.

There are too many vacant buildings around Palmer.

But then, to dispute the fact that Palmer may not be growing, we understand that the assembly just passed a resolution allowing more bars or taverns in Palmer.

Don’t get me wrong, I love living in Palmer.

Peggy Benson

Palmer

Editor’s note: The MTA Palmer Ice Arena is an indoor ice skating rink in Palmer that, among other events, hosts local high school and Junior A hockey games.