This coming Saturday, the Homer Area Beekeepers Association (HABA) will be holding a Zoom meeting from 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 30. All local beekeepers and aspiring beekeepers are welcome to join, as well as anyone curious about what might be involved in becoming a beekeeper. Send an email to homerbeekeepers@gmail.com to get the link or call Linda at 907- 399-9211 for more information.
The Homer Public Library will celebrate Black History Month with storytelling by author Skywalker Payne starting Feb. 2. The library will host Mothers of Black History, a family friendly (best for children over 6) virtual storytelling series, led by Payne, as part of its mission to promote lifelong learning, cultural creativity, and community engagement. The series will be presented live on Zoom from 6-7 p.m. every Tuesday in February. To participate in the live storytellings, register for free at http://bit.ly/hstry11. The videos will be available for viewing on the library website.
The non partisan Homer Legislative Information Office at 270 W. Pioneer Ave. is now open for the first session of the 32nd State Legislature, which convened Tuesday, Jan. 19. At this time the office is able to assist by phone or email only.
The office is a distribution site for PFD forms which can be picked up in the entry way between 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Please call to arrange other means of pick up. To learn more about how you can participate in the legislative process or to obtain more information on issues of interest facing the Alaska State Legislature, please contact 235-7878 or lio.homer@akleg.gov.
The Kachemak Bay Quilters are looking for donations of new teddy bears and plush toy animals of all sizes (Beanie Baby up to 36 inches) to pair with 100 teddy bear-sized quilts they have made. These comfort items will be given to children at Haven House who have experienced domestic violence. Contact Jane at 435-7006 to arrange pickup.
The Caregiver Support Group for persons caring for a family member with a disabling illness, either in or outside your home, is now meeting by Zoom either with computers or smart phones. These meetings are taking place on the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 2:30-4 p.m. The next “Zooming” will be on Jan. 28. These groups are a tremendous support, offering current ideas, resources and lasting friendship. All personal information is considered confidential. Newcomers are welcome. For further information, please call Pam Hooker, facilitator, at 907-299-7198.
The Kenai Peninsula Borough Solid Waste facilities are now closed on Sundays through April 25. For more information, contact the KPB Solid Waste Department at 907-262-9667 or check their webpage at https://www.kpb.us/swd-waste/about-solidwaste.
Kenai Peninsula Votes Tidbit
In 1890 Mr. John Fiske wrote the preface for his book, “Civil Government In the United States Considered With Some Reference To Its Origins,” wherein he states, “It seemed desirable to adopt a historical method of exposition, not simply describing our political institutions in their present shape, but pointing out their origin, indicating some of the processes through which they have acquired that present shape, and thus keeping before the student’s mind the fact that government is perpetually undergoing modifications in adapting itself to new conditions. Inasmuch as such gradual changes in government do not make themselves but are made by men — and for better or for worse, it is the obvious that the history of political institutions has serious lessons to teach us. The student should as soon as possible come to understand that every institution is the outgrowth of experiences.”
These words still ring true today as our nation prepares for a newly elected governing body that will work with past experiences even as they are coming to know new experiences that may require past solutions or fresh, perhaps untried means to resolve old and new issues. Some we will agree with and some will make us wonder what our leaders could possibly be thinking. History indicates that, given time, most wrinkles get ironed out, and that is an important part of our democracy. Our heads of government are elected through free elections to represent We, the People by casting their votes for or against new laws or changes to old laws, and so much more. Don’t forget to let them know how they can best represent you. And please, wish them well— it can’t hurt.
Anchor Point Senior Citizens
The Anchor Point Senior Center on Milo Fritz Avenue serves take-out meals on Thursday evenings with pickup from 5-6 p.m. Helping Hands Thrift Store is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and donations can be dropped off any time. The office staff are at work and available by phone for addressing needs. For information, call 235-7786.
Friendship Center
Friendship Center Adult Day Services is closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Call 235-4556.
Homer Senior Citizens
All activities are canceled and the Homer Senior Center is closed to the general public during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Homer Senior Citizens congregate lunch is closed, but meals can be picked up at noon from Monday-Friday. You must call 907-235-7655 by 10 a.m. daily to reserve your meal.
Hospice of Homer
Hospice of Homer is seeking new board members. Are you interested in using your compassion, enthusiasm, and love of community to help your neighbors in their times of need? The organization hopes you’ll consider joining the Hospice of Homer Board of Directors.
Qualifications:
Prior knowledge of nonprofit boards is helpful but not required—just an interest and willingness to participate in monthly meetings, occasional fundraising events and community outreach.
Time Commitment:
Meetings are once a month for 1.5-2 hours on the third Wednesday of the month. The board expects members to attend these monthly meetings as well as to be an active participant on sub-committees as needs and interests warrant. Sub-committees include areas such as finance, personnel, events, and policy review and revision.
Interested? For more information or to express your interest, please contact Board President Charlie Franz at Kachemakcharlie@gmail.com
To learn more about Hospice of Homer and to find a more detailed description of board member job expectations, please visit their website at hospiceofhomer.org
Widow’s Group: Losing a partner is one of the most devastating things a person can experience. Hospice of Homer has resumed its monthly Widow’s Support Group. This group is a place for those who have lost their partner to share and heal. It is a safe place for coming to terms with the powerful feelings and experiences only those who are walking the same path can truly understand. Participants will be following all COVID-19 protocols. RSVP is required if you plan to attend so organizers may plan accordingly for social distancing and group size limitations.
Homer Council on the Arts
Homer Council on the Arts is exploring wellness through art, and how art can facilitate wellness in us as individuals, families, a community, and across the Southern Kenai Peninsula. The council invites you to be part of a new community exhibit, “The Art of Wellness: Stories of trauma, loss, and resilience.” The exhibit will be hung in HCOA’s gallery during March and will also be viewable online. Works in all media (visual art, digital media, literary, performance recording) are encouraged. To submit your work, visit HomerArt.org/Gallery.
The council is seeking donations of fabric, notions, and other sewing supplies for Art a la Carte, the after-school art program for grades 3-6. The topic for February is Wearable Arts. For more information on the classes and to register, visit HomerArt.org/Education. To donate sewing supplies, drop off at HCOA Monday through Friday from 1-5 p.m. before Feb. 2.
Kachemak Bay Campus
Marine Technology classes are back and in-person at Kachemak Bay Campus. The following classes will be offered observing strict COVID-19 protocols including limited enrollment and compulsory mask wearing:
Master 100 Ton/OUVP with Victoria Winne Wilson: 5-9 p.m. on Fridays and 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, March 5-28. Enrollment is very limited due to COVID-19 protocols. First come, first served. This U.S. Coast Guard-approved course is for those with enough sea time to earn a 100-ton USCG license or an Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel license. The exam will be administered upon completion of the course. Full attendance is mandatory. Upon passing the exam a certificate will be issued which the USCG will accept in lieu of taking their exam. You may have more qualifying sea time than you think. Verify eligibility before enrolling. Contact KBC Marine Tech Coordinator at 907-235-1622. Fee: $705 (includes PPE).
Basics Of DC Electricity For Vessels with Adam Smude: 6-9 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, March 8-19. Enrollment is very limited due to COVID-19 protocols. First come, first served. Basic troubleshooting and theory of direct current systems on vessels. Topics include electrical terms and definitions, safety codes, fundamental diagrams, battery types and application, marine wiring and more. Includes use of vessel simulator. Fee: $180 (includes PPE). Call 907-235-7743 or visit https://kbcnoncredit.asapconnected.com/
Marine Vessel Systems with Adam Smude: 6-9 p.m. March 9 and 11. Enrollment is very limited due to COVID-19 protocols. First come, first served. Focus on what is underneath the deck and examine major vessel systems, including diesel, electrical and hydraulics. Includes hands on use of a vessel systems trainer. Fee: $50 (Includes PPE). Call 907-235-7743 or visit https://kbcnoncredit.asapconnected.com/
Homer Adult Education is offering free computer skills classes throughout the semester. Call 907-235-1606 for more information.
It’s not too late to register for classes at Kachemak Bay Campus. Looking for something you can accomplish in one year? KPC is now offering UAA’s fast-track certificate in Business Leadership that students can achieve in one or two semesters. If you are looking for a quick way to boost your resume or to make a career shift, this Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) is for you. Perfect for individuals in entry-level leadership roles and people wanting to build skills and stand out in a crowd, and for the Spring 2021 term, applicants may be eligible for financial awards up to $1000. Interested parties can call KBC at 907-235-7743 to be connected to an advisor.
Pratt Museum
The Pratt Museum reopens starting Feb. 4 with hours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
On Feb. 5, a new exhibit called “Familiar Faces: Portraits of Community” opens. Masks are required, and capacity will be limited to 10 visitors at any one time. During an era of social distancing, this exhibit provides visitors the opportunity to “meet” our neighbors and community members throughout history, with up-close observations of individuals and the stories that surround them.
Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center
The Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center operations are temporarily suspended, but please visit virtually and take a 3D tour by going to http://ow.ly/hf3f50Bf4HB. The Beluga Slough Trail and other outdoor areas on the refuge will remain open to provide healthy options for recreation and relaxation. Kids can download the Agents of Discovery App and play an interactive learning game on the trail.
To reach refuge staff call 907-235-6546 or email alaskamaritime@fws.gov.
South Peninsula Hospital
Free COVID-19 tests are offered 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week at the lower level of the SPH Specialty Clinic, at 4201 Bartlett Street, Homer. Please use the Danview Avenue access. Tests are for those who have had recent travel out of state, have been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19, they have new onset of any symptom related to COVID-19, or have a provider referral. See complete list of eligible individuals at www.sphosp.org or call the COVID information line at 235-0235. Please call and pre-register before coming if and when possible.
