Learn to cook

HOMER — Former Alaskan turned international pop star Jewel Kilcher will perform at the Homer High School Mariner Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 19.

Photos of women dominate the solo show at the Alaska Native Art Foundation gallery. Twelve large pictures in two neat rows portraying a variety of moods, temperaments and face types: brunette, blonde, pale, swarthy, in warrior princess braids and tomboy baseball cap.

I spent an afternoon last month running around town renewing my museum membership, symphony and opera tickets, that sort of thing. I call these "artistic acts of faith," because we find ourselves in precarious economic times where many despair for the future of art — and the future of much else, including newspapers, informed democracy and polar bears.

Sometimes We’re Always Real Same-Same

Explore America’s history where it all began and learn why we value life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These family-friendly spots are sure to be both fun and educational.

Martha Stramp can’t remember exactly when she began visiting Anchorage farmers markets but she remembers why.

Brenda Adams of Homer has won a national award for a garden she designed in Homer.

GARAGE SALE: Unity Church of Anchorage co-host a garage sale at 3144 Campbell Airstrip Road, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. today. Call for directions. (338-2334, www.unityofanchorage.org)