Contributed by Celia A. Conrad, Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home
The Alaska Veteran and Pioneers’ Home in Palmer is pleased to announce its upcoming Fall Music Festival, Friday August 5th, from 1-4pm. Featuring a variety of musical genres, the festival will provide some local amateur talent as well a couple professional groups. Especially notable are ‘Bobby & Larry’ with roots on the Kenai Peninsula, who have been playing traditional country music together for 40 years around the state. Also featured will be the ‘Moccasin Stompers’ from Anchorage, who specialize in classic country.
The event is open to the public and there will be root beer floats on hand. There is no cover fee, but any donations to help toward future activities at the Veterans Home would be appreciated. It will be held outside in the beautiful backyard of the home, weather permitting. If nature does not cooperate, there is comfortable and homey space available indoors.
The Palmer Pioneers Home was built in 1971 on the former site of the Alaska State Fairgrounds. Nestled in the heart of downtown Palmer, the home is surrounded by beautiful views of the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountain Ranges as well as the massive Knik Glacier. In May 2004, the Alaska Legislature approved development of the state's first veterans’ home. After extensive remodeling and upgrades to meet U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs requirements, the facility was renamed the Alaska Veterans and Pioneers Home. Seventy five percent of the 79 beds in the home are designated for veterans and twenty-five percent are available for non-veterans.
Music is a vital link to seniors’ lives, and many of their most memorable moments can be associated with music. Immersing our residents through this multi-dimensional approach allows the music to enrich their lives, stimulate their minds, energize their bodies, and invigorate their spirits - an experience they will cherish and remember forever.
Our facility has many talented volunteers that share their talent with our seniors throughout the year. For many, it’s a gift worth sharing. Residents often comment that they feel rejuvenated and energized by the musical performances and frequently request their favorite songs. They just come alive when there is live music and they love the energy and enthusiasm that the musicians give to our residents.
Come join in and visit with our residents as we gather together to welcome fall with this energetic event!
If you have any questions regarding this event, volunteer opportunities or wish to share your musical talent with our residents, please call Celia Conrad, Recreation Director and Volunteer Coordinator at 761-6530 or via e-mail at celia.conrad@alaska.gov