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Edith Johnson Owner / Creator, Our Town Catering Hometown/Current City: Sitka Education: Associates degree in culinary arts Community Work: Sitka Conservation Society Board Member; Sitka Mutual Aide Fund supporter; Alaska CHARR member; Sitka Chamber member; The Greater Sitka Chamber New Business of the Year Winner 2018; recognized by the US Forest Service for giving free meals to furloughed government employees; Rotary Club sponsor; Sitka High School spring sports program sponsor; Seaalaska shareholder; STA Tribal Member; Tlingit and Haida Member. Family: Mother to two kids, a girl and a boy, and two huskies; partner to Jayson Asnin, my love; daughter to Donna Russel and the late Steve Johnson; granddaughter to A.P Johnson; and sister to John and Cami Riley and Steven Johnson. What is your favorite place in Alaska and why? Kruz Off Island. I have been four-wheeling over there since my early teens and every time I get to the meadows … it’s just indescribable. Truly heaven on earth. Name the person you respect and why How can you pick just one, when every person I’ve ever met shapes me in a new way. I am growing and adapting constantly, so grateful for the good and bad; without it, I would not be the person I am today. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work? Four-wheeling. What was your first job? K-Mart Cashier, at age 14. What has been your most rewarding community service? I love when I have catering leftovers and I can donate them to the shelters or to families in need; gifting food is so rewarding. In your professional life, what has been a project or achievement you have found to be the most fulfill-
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ing? Starting a business from the ground up having an idea and turning it into a viable business. Being able to have freedom in my creativity and treat my employees the way they deserve to be treated. I would not be where I am without the staff I have had throughout these last five years. They are truly the backbone to my business and they make me so proud.
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Based on your own experiences, what advice would you give on maintaining a good work-life balance? Family first, work second. In the end, your kids are your legacy.
May your home always be too small to hold all your friends. - Irish Blessing
