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 fulfill22

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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.

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.