Mary Schallert Profile

This KTUU-Channel 2 feature story profiles Mary Schallert, mother of the Alaska City Folk Arts Camp. Over the years, hundreds and hundreds of students have received the gift of music, a gift that keeps on giving. From basses to fiddles to mandos, Mary gets musicians in the community to loan their instruments, so children can find the one that calls to them. Others donate their time to work with the children one-on-one. And older students get hired as counselors to coach kids who are new to playing a folk instrument. This one-week experience is truly life-changing for many children. It shows just what can happen with faith in the children and a little magic from Mary. This story was reported by Rhonda McBride and photojournalist Shawn Wilson.