2019 March MatSu Greatlander

In This Issue HAVE YOU HAD YOUR COLONOSCOPY YET? LIFE RETURNS FAST TO LONELY ISLAND WAYS TO SAVE, MONEY THAT IS!

F ind the B enjamin WIN THE BENJAMIN Rules on page 15

March 2019

CAMPER VALLEY SALES

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SERVICE

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March 2019

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SERVICE

Best four-season RV in the state with off-road chassis • New Toy Haulers

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Trailers & 5th Wheels for over 50 years

Light Weight Rugged Toy Haulers March 2019

GreatLander Mat-Su

3

M a rc h 2 0 19 Index $100 Bill Contest & Monthly Winner................... 15 Anchorage Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram................................. 5

Volume 15 Issue 3 GreatLander publications (a division of Anchorage Printing Inc.)

Phone: (907) 274-0611 Fax: (907) 272-2105 Toll Free: 1-888-746-7452

G reat L ander . com info@greatlander.com

View online at: matsugreatlander.com

CAC Plastics............................ 4 Cache Camper......................... 7 Camper Valley RV................. 2, 3 Coloring Page......................... 16 Coloring Page Winners........... 17

Advertising Director:

Leslie Love

leslie@greatlander.com

Advertising Representative:

Delana Fernandez delana@greatlander.com

Northern Sled Works................ 4 Perfection Home Repairs......... 9 Rural Energy........................... 19 Susitna Energy Systems........... 7 Top Fuel Heating Oil................. 6 The UPS Store.......................... 7 Yamaha ATVs, Motorcycles, Power Products, Side x Sides, Snowmobiles.................... 10, 11

Calendar of Events.... 18 Health...................... 12 Home & Garden..........15 Recycling.................. 13 I N S E RT

M at- Su R e a l E s t at e Gu i d e 4

CAC Plastics, LLC.

907-376-7111 www.cacalaska.com

“Alaska’s Fiberglass & Plastic Source”

NORTHERN SLED WORKS

Custom winter freight sleds ranging in size from personal tow pulks to sturdy snowmobile sleds.

Legacy Funeral Homes............ 6

Mile 5.2 Greenhouse................ 6

gerrett@anchorageprinting.com

Fiberglass - 4 ft. to 10 ft.

2600 Broadview Ave., Wasilla, AK 99654

Great Alaska Pizza Company........................ 4

Meier Lake Event Center.......... 7

Gerrett Rhodes

Available in colors to compliment your snowmachine. Most models come equipped with UHMW plastic runners & skags and rope tiedowns. Welded hitch available for most models.

GrassHopper Lawn Care.......... 8

Megan’s Tax Service................. 6

General Manager:

From skijoring and ice fishing to freight hauling, we have a sled for YOU!

Geico........................................ 8

Mat Valley Meats.................... 20

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Sleds Tough as Alaska!

Cremation Society of Alaska.... 8

Mat-Su Regional Medical Center....................... 12

To advertise in this publication please call

CAC FREIGHTER SLEDS

GreatLander Mat-Su

March 2019

RUGGED DURABLE ALASKAN Handcrafting Sleds Since 1996

P.O. Box 61171 • Fairbanks, AK 99706 • 479-8599

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2019

11 Awesome Acres on E. 5 th

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0 2019 RAM1500 0 0 , 2 $1 Classic Crew Cab OFF! BIG HORN 4X4 HEMI

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2018 JEEP RENEGADE SPORT #471640

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Photos do not depict actual vehicle.

ACCAK.COM • ACCAK.COM • ACCAK.COM March 2019

Sale Ends 3/31/19

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RESERVE YOUR LEMON TREE TODAY!

TOP FUEL

HEATING OIL Yep, still the same fast friendly service!

Celebrating Our 17th Season Proudly Serving the Matanuska Valley!

746-4985 • M-F 8-5 Sat 9-Noon

Aloe Vera • Cactus Succulents • Pineapples Fig Trail • Olive Trees Banana Trees

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Tax Service

MILE 5.2 GREENHOUSE & GIFT SHOP (907) 694-3978

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Offering Services For Individual Taxes

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4900 E. Palmer-Wasilla Hwy, Ste. 107

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Three Valley Locations to Serve you!

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• Helping Alaskan families for over 45 years • Serving South Central, Interior North Slope, and Alaska’s Aleutian Chain

Legacy Affordable Witzleben Legacy Legacy Affordable Burial Kehl’s Legacy Heritage Chapel Kehl’s Heritage Wasilla Burial & Cremation Funeral Home and Cremation Center Funeral Home at Angelus Palmer Mortuary Chapel 13800 Cheri Lake Dr. 1707 S. Bragaw 1120 E. 5th Ave. 11621 Old Seward Hwy. 440 E. Klatt 209 S. Alaska St. 1015 S. Check St. Wasilla, AK 99654 Anchorage, AK 99508 Anchorage, AK 99501 Anchorage, AK 99515 Anchorage, AK 99515 Palmer, AK 99645 Wasilla, AK 99654 907-892-5570 907-277-1682 907-222-5985 907-344-1497 907-336-3338 907-745-3580 907-373-3840

Statewide 1-800-820-1682 • Valley 907-373-3840 • www.legacyalaska.com 6

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March 2019

CUSTOM BUILT CAMPERS, CANOPIES & KENNELS

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FREE ESTIMATES! Snowplowing ssHopper a r G Sanding

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Science

Life returns fast to lonely island Ned Rozell

Bogoslof Island is the gray tip of a mountain that pokes from the choppy surface of the Bering Sea. The volcano stands alone just north of the Aleutians, far south of the larger islands of St. George and St. Paul.

Nora Rojek, a biologist at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge based in Homer, once knew Bogoslof well — its screaming seabirds and the roar of waves fizzing at its black sand shores, along with the smell of salt particles suspended in spray.

The Bogoslof Rojek knew recently reinvented itself, quadrupling in size after its latest eruption, which started about Christmastime 2016 and continued until August 2017. What had been a 74-acre island became a 321-acre island.

On her August, 2018, return to Bogoslof, Rojek crinkled her nose at the smell of sulfur. Everyone aboard the refuge ship Tiglax saw steam rising from the gray island. The ashen surface they would be stepping on would be one of the newest landscapes on Earth.

“Everyone was very excited, with a little bit of nervousness,” Rojek said.

Instead of a lifeless pile of charred rock, Rojek and fellow researchers on board saw fur seals hauled out on the beach. Kittiwakes, murres and other birds whirred

8

GreatLander Mat-Su

Photo by Gabrielle Tepp, Alaska Volcano Observatory/U.S. Geological Survey.

A flock of gulls or kittiwakes on Bogoslof Island during a visit by scientists in August 2018.

above, and a pod of killer whales hunted seals just offshore.

“It was definitely back in business,” she said.

Bogoslof has been a protected place since two days before President Teddy Roosevelt left office in 1909. He designated the island as one of the country’s first wildlife refuges.

Each year, the Tiglax sails from Southeast Alaska to the western arctic coast. But the crew does not get to Bogoslof every

March 2019

year; it’s not on the way to anywhere. Bogoslof visits promise the punishment of stormy open ocean, along with difficult beaches upon which to crash-land an inflatable skiff.

“It’s a really difficult island to get to,” Rojek said. “It’s just sitting out there away from the (Aleutian) chain, with no protection.”

Despite Bogoslof’s self-destructive behavior, animals hung around during the 64 explosive eruptions that reshaped the island between December 2016

and August 2017.

“Even while the eruption was going on, the wildlife used to breeding on Bogoslof came back,” Rojek said. “It’s highly unlikely any of them were successful, but they were coming back.”

Their devotion to the site has something to do with Bogoslof’s location on the shallow waters above the continental shelf, one of the richest places on the planet for sea creatures great and small.

“Bogoslof is just an amazing place

for wildlife,” Rojek said. “It’s just jampacked. There’s something about that spot that’s awesome for all these creatures to feed their young. When you consider how small it is, it’s pretty impressive.”

When Rojek and others walked the island last August, they saw gull chicks that resembled fuzzy tennis balls. The biologists determined the gull parents had built nests out of the only items available, seaweed and driftwood.

Other birds, such as cliff-nesting murres and kittiwakes and the puffins that often dig burrows into cliff edges with fine soil, did not seem as successful. Rojek saw many kittiwakes that seemed to be “loafing,” rather than caring for chicks as they would be on an undisturbed island.

Rojek hopes to be able to go back in summer 2019 to further document what happens after an island hits its own reset button.

“Even though it was very stark, it was very beautiful,” she said. “There were oranges, red and yellows, with different little patterns on the surface. It reminded me of being in Yellowstone.”

This column is provided as a public service by the Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks, in cooperation with the UAF research community. Ned Rozell is a science writer at the institute.

PERFECTION HOME REPAIRS

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GreatLander Mat-Su

9

ALL-NEW

YAMAHA WOLVERI2019 NES GRIZZLY

ALL-NEW

STARTING AT YAMAHA WOLVERINES 2019 Wolverine

2019 Wolverine X4 SE

R-Spec SE

X2

®

EPS SE

$12,699

2- OR 4-SEAT PROVEN OFF-ROAD PERFORMANCE THE ULTIMATE RECREATIONAL BIG BORE ATV Introducin

FAMILY FUN IN FOUR DIFFERENT SIZES

*

g the most Capable, Comfortable and Confident 2- or 4-seat Side-by-Sides from NEW GRIZZLY EPS SE: 14-inch aluminum wheels • 27-inch Grizzly-exclusive Maxxis® ‘Zilla Tires Yamaha – the 2019 Wolverine X2 and Wolverine X4.

Both Wolverine models feature: A compact •chassis, Ultramatic® Transmission – the world’s most advanced andion durable ATV drive system yet roomy cabin • Powerful, ultra-quiet, low-vibrat – tuned to 847cc parallel twin engine • Onmatch the SE ® tire and wheel package • Improved rider connectivity via a larger, Command updated 2WD/4WD with diff-lock • Industry’s most reliable CVT: Ultramatic LCD digital ® transmiss ion • Expanded versatility a new rear hitch assembly with 2-inch receiver • Eye-catch •meter Legendary , Proven Off-Roadwith durability and reliability • Available full-cab enclosure accessoriing es Backcoun Blueand matte • Grizzly EPS comes with a powerful to engine keep youtry tuned warm for spirited dry •paint Prewired for easy installation of the new Yamaha Adventure Pro System riding and ® hard-hittin g punch STARTING • Legendar AT y On-Comm and 4WD • Yamaha Electric Power • Proudly assembled in the USA • The Wolverine X2 features an exclusive 600-lb. dumping * Steering disc brakes • 5-way preload-adjustable independe 2019 Wolverine cargo bed• All-wheel SE twin-pisto & X4 nt suspension 2,000-lb. towing ncapacity 2019 Wolverine X2 • Thick, plush seat and roomy riding position R-Spec SE

and level rider • Features include class-leading Say hello to the 2019 TT-R Family, boasting the perfect model for every size TT-R230 touts a potent 223cc engine, 6-speed reliability and low maintenance, convenient push-button electric start • is the perfect off-roader for discovering the transmission, and low maintenance performance • Versatile, 125cc TT-R125LE a torquey 110cc engine, 4-speed auto clutch freedom of trail riding • Huge fun for young and old alike, the TT-R110E boasts 49cc engine, 3-speed auto clutch transmission, transmission, and low 26.4” seat • TT-R50E makes the ideal starter playbike: ultra-low 21.9” seat, and throttle stop screw that restricts speed for learning

$12,699

2- OR 4-SEAT PROVEN OFF-ROAD PERFORMANCE

Introducing the most Capable, Comfortable and Confident 2- or 4-seat Side-by-S ides from Yamaha – the 2019 Wolverine X2 and Wolverine X4. Both Wolverine models feature: A compact chassis, yet roomy cabin • Powerful, ultra-quiet, low-vibration 847cc parallel twin engine • OnCommand® 2WD/4WD with diff-lock • Industry’s most reliable CVT: Ultramatic® transmission • Legendary, Proven Off-Road durability and reliability • Available full-cab enclosure accessories to keep you warm and dry • Prewired for easy installation of the new Yamaha Adventure Pro System • Proudly assembled in the USA • The Wolverine X2 features an exclusive 600-lb. dumping cargo bed & 2,000-lb. towing capacity

YAMAHA POWER PRODUC TS

POWERFUL | DURABLE | RELIABLE

ATV shown is recommended *Price and Specifications for use by riders subject agenotice. to only 16 years change without and older.

Yamaha $12,699 recommends MSRP for Wolverine that allWolverine ATV ridersX2take X2 model. an approved training R-Spec course. For SE shown safety and from $15,299.

Professional trainingoninformation, driver see yourWear closed course. dealer or call ATV Safety your seatthebelt, at 1-800-887-2887 helmet,Institute eye protection . Read the and protective Owner’sRead ManualtheandOwner’s clothing. the product warning Manual before operation. and labels the product warning ATVs be hazardous labelscanbefore to operate. operation.

For yourwith safety: Model shown Alwaysaccessories. avoid paved Vehicle optional surfaces.specifications Never ride on public roads.

Always wear subject a to helmet, change. eye ©2018 protection Yamaha and protective Motor Corporation, U.S.A. clothing; carry passengers; All rightsnever reserved. never engage • YamahaOutdoo in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful rs.com on difficult terrain. ©2018 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaOutdoors.com

FAMILY FUN IN FOUR DIFFERENT SIZES and level rider • Features include class-leading Say hello to the 2019 TT-R Family, boasting the perfect model for every size TT-R230 touts a potent 223cc engine, 6-speed reliability and low maintenance, convenient push-button electric start • is the perfect off-roader for discovering the transmission, and low maintenance performance • Versatile, 125cc TT-R125LE a torquey 110cc engine, 4-speed auto clutch freedom of trail riding • Huge fun for young and old alike, the TT-R110E boasts 49cc engine, 3-speed auto clutch transmission, transmission, and low 26.4” seat • TT-R50E makes the ideal starter playbike: ultra-low 21.9” seat, and throttle stop screw that restricts speed for learning ®

2019 GRIZZLY EPS SE

riding jacket or long-sleeve shirt, long pants, gloves Professional rider on closed course. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. ©2018 the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, call 1-800-446-9227.

• YamahaMotorsports.com

YAMAHA RELIABILITY, YAMAHA POWER

2019 GRIZZLY EPS SE ®

PW3028 PRESSURE WASHER

YAMAHA POWER PRODUC TS

THE ULTIMATE RECREATIONAL BIG BOR E ATV

EF2000iSv2 INVERTER

POWERFUL | DURABLE | RELIABLE

YAMAHA RELIABILITY, YAMAHA POWER

*Price and Specifications subject to change without notice. $12,699 MSRP for Wolverine X2 model.

Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE shown from $15,299. Professional YP20G driver on closed course. Wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Read the Owner’s Manual and the product warning PUMP labels before operation. Model shown with optional accessories. Vehicle PW3028 specifications subject to change. ©2018 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. PRESSURE All rights reserved. • YamahaOutdoors.com EF3000iSEB WASHER

INVERTER

EF2000iSv2 for the best way to get the job done? Power up with the complete line of power products from Yamaha. You can Looking INVERTER count on the lightweight and super quiet EF2000iSv2 inverter or EF3000iSEB with Yamaha Boost Technology and the YP20G’s high-power engine that allows it to work hard for you wherever life takes you. After leaving camp or the job site, head home to the incredible PW3028 pressure washer to help clean up your gear. No matter what your power needs may be, Yamaha has what you need with durability and versatility to boot.

YP20G PUMP EF3000iSEB INVERTER

Looking for the best way to get the job done? Power up with the complete line of power products from Yamaha. You can count on the lightweight and super quiet EF2000iSv2 inverter or EF3000iSEB with Yamaha Boost Technology and the YP20G’s high-power engine that allows it to work hard for you wherever life takes you. After leaving camp or the job site, head home to the incredible PW3028 pressure washer to help clean up your gear. No matter what your power needs may be, Yamaha has what you need with durability and versatility to boot.

dealer or call 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous ATVs are recommended only for use by those age 16 years and older. YAMAHA recommends an approved training course. See your U.S.A. All rights reserved. to operate. Read Owner’s Manual before operation. Specifications subject to change without notice. ©2016 Yamaha Motor Corporation,

NEW GRIZZLY EPS SE: 14-inch aluminum wheels • 27-inch Grizzly-exclusive Maxx ® is ‘Zilla Tires • Ultramatic® Transmission – the world ’s most advanced and durable ATV drive system – tuned to match the SE tire and wheel package • Impr oved rider connectivity via a larger, upda ted LCD digital meter • Expanded versatility with a new long-sleeve shirt, long pants, gloves riding eye protection, rear hitch assem blyjacket rider on closed course. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, withor 2-inc Professional h receiver •andEye-c respectatching Back coun tryride.Blue and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely Yamaha ly dangerous. matte and paint It is illegal • Grizz and boots. Do not drink and EPS come s with a powe rights reserved.

U.S.A. Motor Corporation, rful engin e Alltuned regarding the MSF course, call 1-800-446-9227. ©2018 Yamaha for spirited information further hardridingFor and the environment. hittin g punc h • Legendary On-Command® 4WD • • YamahaMotors Yamaha Electric Power Steerports.com ing • All-wheel twin-piston disc brakes • 5-way preload-adjustable independent suspension • Thick, plush seat and roomy riding posit ion

THE ULTIMATE RECREATIONAL BIG BOR E ATV

NEW GRIZZLY EPS SE: 14-inch aluminum wheels • 27-inch Grizzly-exclusive Maxx ® is ‘Zilla Tires • Ultramatic® Transmission – the world ’s most advanced and durable ATV drive system – tuned to match the SE tire and wheel package • Impr oved rider connectivity via a larger, upda ted LCD digital meter • Expanded versatility with a new rear hitch assembly with 2-inch receiver • Eye-catching Backcountry Blue matte paint • Grizzly EPS comes with a powerful engine tuned for spirited riding and hard-hitting punch • Lege ndary On-Command® 4WD • Yamaha Electric Power Steering • All-wheel twin-piston disc brake s • 5-way preload-adjustable independe nt suspension • Thick, plush seat and roomy riding posit ion

ATV shown is recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For training information, see your dealer or call the ATV safety and Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. Read the Owner’s ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Manual and the product warning labels before operatio Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public n. roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in protective stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult ©2018 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights terrain. reserved. • YamahaOutdoors.com

For Best Pricing Options Contact Your Participating Dealer. ©2019 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Product and specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider on closed course under controlled conditions. Always wear an approved helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Ride responsibly and always ride within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvering, and respect others around you. Know the conditions. Observe all state and local laws. Don’t drink and ride.

ATV shown is recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For training information, see your dealer or call the ATV safety and Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. Read the Owner’s dealer or call 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Manual and the product warning labels before operatio ATVs are recommended only for use by those age 16 years and older. YAMAHA recommends an approved training course. See your Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public U.S.A. All rights reserved. n. to operate. Read Owner’s Manual before operation. Specifications subject to change without notice. ©2016 Yamaha Motor Corporation, roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in protective stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult ©2018 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights terrain. reserved .

• Yamaha Outdoo rs.com UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP!

Yamaha Motorcycles, ATVs & Snowmachines Available At These Participating Yamaha Dealers: Northern Power Sports

Wasilla Performance Yamaha

Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 Phone: 907-452-2762 www.NorthernPowersports.com

10

GreatLander Mat-Su

Wasilla, AK 99657 Phone: 907-373-7668 www.AnchorageYamaha.com

March 2019

River & Sea Marine

Soldotna, Alaska 99669 Phone: 800-770-7700 www.riverandseamarine.com

Sales Mgr: bob.walker@acsalaska.net

THE LEGEND IS BACK

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Anchorage Yamaha

Anchorage, Alaska 99517 Phone: 907-243-8343 www.AnchorageYamaha.com

March 2019

GreatLander Mat-Su

11

H e a lt h

Have you had your colonoscopy yet?

PALMER – If you’re thinking, “A colonoscopy?! Isn’t that a test for OLD people?,” you may want to pay attention to recent news from the American Cancer Society. The ACS this year altered its recommendation for first-time colon cancer screening, lowering the guidelines from age 50 to age 45, for those at average risk of cancer.

The change was directly tied to the rising number of younger adults being diagnosed with colorectal cancers – including many with no family history of the disease.

Colon cancer is the third most common form of cancer in the United States, with an expected 90,000 new cases of colon, and 40,000 cases of rectal, cancers expected to be diagnosed in 2018.

There is the potential for false perceptions regarding the changing data on colon cancer, according to the ACS. While mortality rates from colon cancer have been declining over the past 30 years, the number of new diagnoses is actually increasing.

This is both good news and bad news – we are doing a better job of screening for and removing polyps before they become cancerous, while lifestyle and diet choices are driving up the risk and incidence of these cancers in general.

In addition to the changes in screening age, the ACS also issued some additional guidance on screening methods that patients and their doctors can consider. If a colonoscopy is not recommended at this time, or there are financial or other barriers to the procedure, talk to your physician about one of these less invasive screening methods: • Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) – stool-based test recommended once per year

• Guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) – stool-based test once per year • Multi-targeted stool DNA test (MTsDNA) – stool-based test, once every 3 years • CT Colonography – “virtual colonoscopy,” once every 5 years • Flexible sigmoidoscopy (FSIG) – once every 5 years “While colonoscopy remains the gold standard, there are several diagnostic and lab tools that can screen for the presence of blood or polyps in the colon,” said TakMing Ko, MD, a board-certified general surgeon in Palmer. Patients should be aware that an abnormal result in any of these tests MUST be followed by a full colonoscopy, in order to mitigate the increased risk of cancer, and to promptly remove any polyps, Ko added. This fact should be considered by both patient and physician, before any of these lesser screening methods are used.

Finally, the new guidance includes very specific precautions for those at increased risk of colon cancer. For these patients, the physician may advise initial screening BEFORE age 45, being screened more often, and/or using specific screening methods to ensure polyps are found and removed early, before they can become cancerous. These risk factors include: • A personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or of certain types of polyps • A personal history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease • A history of radiation in the abdomen or pelvis, in treatment of previous cancer(s) • A genetic and hereditary colorectal

cancer syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome While it is one of the most common forms of cancer, colon cancer is also highly preventable and treatable. Healthy diet and lifestyle choices, combined with proactive screening and prompt removal of any polyps, can dramatically reduce your risk of contracting this disease. Also, never ignore changes of any kind in your bowel habits – be prepared to share details with your physician, including frequency, consistency and any type of discomfort or dysfunction.

If you are 45-years or older and have not yet been screened for colon cancer, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to get screened. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month – the perfect opportunity to get checked for colon cancer.

You can also schedule a colon screening directly with Dr. Ko or one of five other general surgeons in the Mat-Su Valley who perform screening colonoscopies for patients. Visit MatSuRegional.com, use the Find-a-Doctor tool, and select Surgery-

General from the dropdown menu.

About Mat-Su Regional Medical Center Mat-Su Regional Medical Center is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network. It is a 74-bed acute care healthcare facility providing advanced surgical service, including robotic-assisted partial and total knee replacement, cardiac care, emergency services, sleep studies, three urgent care centers, the Family Birthing Center and is home to the 30-Minutes-or-Less ER Service Pledge. Mat-Su Regional is accredited as a Chest Pain Center by the American College of Cardiology, and as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital by The Joint Commission. The hospital has twice been named one of the Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare by Becker’s Hospital Review.

To learn more about Mat-Su Regional, visit www.MatSuRegional.com.

Make your urgent care wait as short as possible.

Save your spot now.

When you need urgent care, view wait times and check in online.

Just answer a few easy questions, pick a time that works for you, and we’ll save your spot. We can even send you a text when it’s time to show up.

Visit MatSuRegional.com to check in and skip the wait.

Urgent Care is now available at three locations.

5851 S. Knik-Goose Bay Rd. 209 W. Evergreen Ave. Wasilla Palmer

950 E. Bogard Road, Suite 103 Wasilla

If your symptoms worsen or you believe you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department as soon as possible.

12

GreatLander Mat-Su

March 2019

103375_MATS_UCreserve_4_875x6c.indd 1

8/27/18 5:39 PM

See us online at

MatSuGreatLander.com Like us on Facebook R e c yc l i n g

News you can use, recycle this newspaper!

Valley Community for Recycling Solutions A regular shopping trip becomes a true lesson in responsible home economics when you are conscious of what happens to a purchase after using it. The very root of the word economics is stewardship. You, the consumer (aka steward), are the heart of reduce, reuse, and recycle. Who wants to preserve the high quality lifestyle provided by the vast outdoor open space we are nestled into?! Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS) does and carefully manages the recycling of resources from one manufactured form into another.

The purpose of recycling is to increase the volume of reusable resources used to produce goods collected from the Mat-Su waste stream. Keeping recyclable material out of the community landfill impacts growth; slashing the high cost of waste management in the Mat-Su Borough. Landfill diversion requires action from businesses and residences when deciding how to handle the waste. In addition, it leads our community to discoveries about economically worthwhile solutions and opportunities.

Businesses have potential to save thousands of dollars when pulling heavy material out of their waste streams for recycling at VCRS. Identified by an interior fluted layer that

make boxes thick and rigid, corrugated cardboard paper fibers are long and strong, keeping them in high demand in paper markets.

Any investment of corrugated cardboard with VCRS results in a comprehensive recycling program for our community, putting profits back into our program as a public service, non-profit organization. All you need to do is drop it off, at no charge, or hire a local pickup service.

Typically, materials recycled through openloop recycling go on to be used for purposes different than their former, pre-cycled purpose. Every bit of newspaper recycled at VCRS gets used locally by Thermokool, a Mat-Su Valley manufacturer of premium quality, conservation minded products such as: energy saving cellulose insulation and erosion control hydro seeding mulches. The VCRS classroom is designed to show how cellulose insulation, a low thermal conductivity material, is blown into the walls to reduce the building’s heat loss (and gain), draughts and noise.

Petroleum based plastic bags used by retailers for shopping, dry cleaning, delivering newspapers and product overwrap is sent away for remanufacturing into non-biodegradable decking material. The lightweight material is weather resistant, easy to clean and doesn’t need to be stained. Presorting

is required in order for VCRS to deliver the quality of plastic needed for remanufacturing this low-maintenance alternative to wood.

Stewards should empty, clean and dry all recyclables before sending them for processing at VCRS. It is in a business’ interest to understand these issues and find production solutions that support sustainable consumption. Closing the loop creates stable markets for recycling and ensures the continuation and expansion of our recycling program. Without a demand there is no economy to support recycling. Aluminum can recycling is an example of closed-loop recycling process. Aluminum cans are recycled to form new cans with little material degradation or waste creation. Fortunately, aluminum can be recycled indefinitely which strongly sustains the supply chain. If you haven’t already heard; when you see aluminum in the road, pick it up and bring it to VCRS. Human potential is an underutilized resource if imagination is left untapped. A goal set this year is to harness fresh energy from our community to commit to recycling correctly.

This year, advocates from various community service groups plan to go door-to-door in their neighborhoods emphasizing “everyone can do it”. They will be handing out a Material Sorting Guide and recycling voucher

used to track the campaign. The center has a staff member available to ease new recyclers into the process and update old hands about newer recycling trends. Our classroom is open during business hours for visitors seeking valuable information with hands-on examples tailored for all visitors pre-K to adult.

Ordinances passed to ban single use plastic shopping bags in the cities of Palmer and Wasilla are another form of responsible stewardship. The reason for doing this is the fact that plastic, if not recycled properly, is harmful to the environment. The economical consumer’s best response to the ban is to reuse shopping bags over and over again. The conscious act of precycling addresses sustainability at the community landfill and can be practiced in several ways: strategically delaying non-urgent mail orders (waiting to purchase several items at once), limiting frequent purchases of staple goods (ordering in bulk), and shop local (love where you live).

Making real change is a decision which comes from the heart. VCRS runs daily operations with the understanding that the world needs to manage our planet’s limited resources for a rapidly growing population.

We are ready, willing, and able to cut waste by moving the correct materials through the loop. Please contact 745-5544 for more information.

March 2019

GreatLander Mat-Su

13

Fun

and

Games

CROSSWORD

CHORUS WORD SEARCH Find the hidden words in the puzzle

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwards A CAPPELLA ACCENT ALTO AUDIATE BALANCE BARITONE BASS BEAT CADENZA

CHEST CHOIR CHORUS CLEF COUNT ENSEMBLE FALSETTO FLAT HEAD

KEY MAJOR MEASURE MINOR MODIFICATION MOVEMENT MUSIC OCTAVE PITCH

5 4 2 2 7 6 1 5 3 8 4 6 2 5 1 3 9 1 2 3 4 8 9 7 6 3 7 9 4 2 8 6 3 1 5 8 WORD SEARCH ANSWER

REGISTER SHARP SIGHT SOPRANO TEMPO TENOR TONE VOCAL VOWELS

SUDOKU (Level - Easy)

The objective is to fill a 9×9 grid so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3×3 boxes (also called blocks or regions) contains the digits from 1 to 9 only one time each.

SUDOKU ANSWER 6 5 4 1 7 3 8 9 2 2 7 8 4 6 9 3 1 5 9 1 3 5 2 8 7 4 6 7 8 6 2 5 1 4 3 9 5 9 1 6 3 4 2 7 8 3 4 2 8 9 7 6 5 1 8 3 5 7 1 6 9 2 4 4 2 7 9 8 5 1 6 3 1 6 9 3 4 2 5 8 7

14

GreatLander Mat-Su

March 2019

ACROSS 1. JOINT 6. A GROUP OF COUNTRIES IN SPECIAL ALLIANCE 10. STONE 14. MOVE WITH A SPLASHING SOUND 15. CAN BE FIXED 17. GIVING HUMAN CHARACTERISTICS TO THE NONHUMAN 19. OTHER SIDE OF YANG (CHINESE) 20. CONSUME 21. GAVE IT A GO 22. ONE POINT NORTH OF DUE EAST 23. FAT USED TO MAKE PUDDINGS 24. TURFS 26. NOT AWAKE 29. NOT NICE 31. FRIGHTEN 32. POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE 34. SKIN PROBLEM 35. TYPE OF MUSIC 37. INTESTINAL POUCHES

CROSSWORD ANSWER

38. EIGHT 39. EMERALD ISLE 40. INTERPRET CHARACTERS 41. ABANDON 43. FELINES 45. ENERGY AND ENTHUSIASM 46. RESEMBLES A POUCH 47. RELATING TO SENSE OF SMELL 49. SWISS RIVER 50. BRADLEY INT’L AIRPORT 53. __ __ __ __ YONDER 57. TARRED AND ___ 58. BOYISH 59. THIS (SPANISH) 60. MALE PARENT 61. LOUNGE CHAIR

16. SELDOM 18. NOSES 22. DENOTES PAST 23. SELLING AT SPECIALLY REDUCED PRICES 24. __ CLAUS 25. COMES BEFORE TWO 27. FENCING SWORDS 28. NOCTURNAL RODENT 29. CHINESE REVOLUTIONARY 30. ELECTRONIC COUNTERCOUNTERMEASURES 31. ENJOYABLE 33. VILLAIN 35. DISCUSSED 36. WATERFALL (SCOTTISH) 37. OLD TELEVISION PART (ABBR.) DOWN 39. ROUGHLY CHIPPED 1. SPORTS AWARD FLINT 2. MONETARY UNIT OF 42. HELPS CHANGE ANGOLA CHANNELS 3. SOME ANIMALS LIVE 43. __ SAGAN, HERE ASTRONOMER 4. FORMER CIA 44. COOLING UNIT 5. GLOBAL HEALTH 46. UTTERED WORDS GROUP 47. SMALL INTEGERS 6. MALE GIVEN NAME 48. TYPE OF DATA 7. OPPOSITE OF RIGHT 49. INSPIRED 8. OPEN PAYMENT 50. FRANCE’S FIRST INITIATIVE JEWISH PM 9. DESERT PLANTS 51. FAMED SCI-FI NOVEL 10. A BIRD THAT CANNOT 52. BODY PARTS FLY 53. NIGERIAN CITY 11. OFF-BROADWAY 54. AMOUNT OF TIME THEATER AWARD 55. COLORING MATERIAL 12. LUMP OF CLAY 56. TYPE OF 13. BARBIE’S PAL CONSTRICTOR SNAKE

Win $100

Somewhere, hidden in this publication is a picture of a $100 bill.

Congratulations to our February $100 winner!

Jenifer Shivers

(Hint: it is NOT the money in the Camper Valley RV ad.)

All you need to do is find the picture of the $100 Dollar Bill and tell us the ad and page number you found it on with your name, address and phone number attached.

(If you don’t give us your address and phone number we can’t send you the money!)

of Wasilla

We will then have a random drawing from your submissions on March 25, 2019 to pick ONE WINNER

Mail or bring all submissions to: GreatLander Publications 3110 Spenard Road Anchorage, AK 99503 – Please include your email address –

or email to: contest@greatlander.com

The winner will be announced in the April Mat-Su GreatLander!

ONE ENTRY PER PERSON. One winner per month. Must be 18 years or older to play. Submissions must be received by GreatLander Publications no later than March 25, 2019 to be eligible to win. Employees of Anchorage Printing, Inc. are not eligible to play.

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Home & Garden

Tax S

Ways to save, money that is!

Julie Cascio, Mat Su District Cooperative Extension What does “saving the extra” mean to you? Whether it is putting change in a piggy bank or moving income not needed for the monthly budget into savings, those three words can mean having money in the future.

Savers with a plan are twice as likely to save successfully. Goals might be for things like retirement and your (or your children’s) education, vacation or a car! Take the step to start a healthy savings habit.

Create a simple savings plan.

To figure out what you spend, keep track of expenses for at least one month. One method is to collect all receipts and write down payments made when no receipt is received. Add them into the various categories, i.e. food, gas, car payment, home payment, insurance, medical expenses, etc.

Include expenses paid less often as well.

Now subtract this from the income. This is great math practice! Or use a calculator

Julie Cascio

or an app to track spending and analyze trends. Figure how the expenses paid fit in the income being received.

With your values and goals in mind, create a realistic spending plan. In that plan, consider ways to save the extra: 1. Add a savings line to your budget.

Rent, utilities, internet. Every important piece of your financial picture gets a designated spot in your budget each month, so include savings, too.

Savings goals should be priority in short term savings and spending plan.

Prioritize your goals by adding a “savings” line with an affordable amount to your budget; pay yourself with each paycheck.

2. Stow away the windfall. Maybe you receive a bonus for a job well done, get a PFD, or a monetary gift. Whatever the bounty may be, allocate any unexpected funds to your savings goals. Tuck it away for a rainy day.

3. Split and save your refund. Saving at tax time can be a step toward meeting your savings goals. This tax season, opt to split a portion of your tax refund into your savings account.

Identify the ways that you and your household can save the extra and add a boost to your bank account now. If you can’t spend less, make more! Ideas include

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Parks G r e a t L a n d e r M a 1830 t - S u East15

Mail in your coloring entry for a chance to win one of our DQ-licious 8” Round Cakes!

777 E Parks Hwy., Wasilla | 907-373-0098 • 401 W Evergreen Ave., Palmer | 907-746-1999

Kids! Send in your coloring contest entry for a chance to win an 8” cake from Dairy Queen!

One winner from each age group 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12 will be announced in the April 2019 Greatlander.

Name:________________________________________________ Age:______ Phone:_____________________ Mailing Address:__________________________________________ E-mail:___________________________

Parents - Please help your child legibly write their name. If we can’t read it, we might not be able to spell it correctly. Thanks!

Submissions must be received by March 27th 2019. The winners of this coloring page will be announced in the April 2019 GreatLander.

Mail entries to: GreatLander, 3110 Spenard Road, Anchorage, AK 99503-3699 • Illustrated by Dylan Lindsey © Anchorage Printing Inc. 2019

16

GreatLander Mat-Su

March 2019

Coloring Page

WINNERS

Winners receive a

from Dairy Queen!

February 2019

Ages 4-6

Ages 7-9

Rex Maki, Age 5

Leightyn Wetherhorn, Age 9

Ages 10-12 Winners will receive their gift card by mail.

Lina Bgatov, Age 11

Thank you to everyone who entered! Be sure to color your entry for February!

March 2019

GreatLander Mat-Su

17

March 2019

CALENDAR OF EVENTS EAGLE RIVER

PALMER

Iditarod For Kids Mar. 9th @ 2:00pm - 4:00pm Eagle River Nature Center (32750 Eagle River Rd.) Do you enjoy following the Iditarod Race but can’t make it to Nome? Stop by the classroom yurt anytime between 2-4pm for some hands-on activities related to gear, canine and human first aid, as well as food provisions for the trail. Free program; $5 parking for non-members. info@ernc.org • 90 7 - 694-2108 Painting the Northern Lights Mar. 10th @ 2:00pm - 4:00pm Eagle River Nature Center (32750 Eagle River Rd.) Paint the Northern Lights that illuminate our night sky! Homer artist David Pettibone will guide you through basic painting techniques. Follow along in an easy and fun step by step process. Acrylic paints and supplies included. Open to adults and children ages 10 and up (accompanied by an adult). Price: $25.00 info@ernc.org • 90 7 - 694-2108 Making a Survival Kit Mar. 15th @ 2:00pm - 4:00pm Eagle River Nature Center (32750 Eagle River Rd.) Price: $10.00 Children’s Workshop ($10; Registration required) What should be in your pack when you head into the backcountry? We’ll discuss preparedness and put together a mini survival kit for you to take with you on your next outdoor adventure. Open to ages 8 & up. $10 fee; register at www.ernc.org. info@ernc.org • 90 7 - 694-2108 Nike Site Summit at Arctic Valley Mar. 24th @ 2:00pm Eagle River Nature Center (32750 Eagle River Rd.) High on the slopes of Mt. Gordon Lyon in the Chugach front range, above Anchorage’s Holiday Star, stand the remnants of Nike Site Summit, a former Cold War missile base. Ivan Hodes, Deputy Director of Friends of Nike Site Summit, presents information about the human and natural history of the site, along with information about how to access this highly-visible yet hidden treasure at Arctic Valley. Free program; $5 parking for non-members. info@ernc.org • 90 7 - 694-2108

18

GreatLander Mat-Su

March 2019

PALMER continued...

Happy Run Mar. 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th @ 6:00pm - 7:00pm Active Sales Performance Footwear (642 S Alaska St. STE 100) The Happy Run is a weekly event that occurs every Monday at 6pm starting from Active Soles Performance Footwear running through Palmer, and eventually making your way back to the Palmer City Ale House.

This run is a FREE community run and every week there is a free raffle that follows for all happy runners/walkers.

Happy Runners are able to order from Free Tax Help Palmer Ale House or spend $5.00 for a Mar. 14th, 21st, 28th @ 10:00am - 4:00pm meal chosen by the Ale House - changes Mat-Su Senior Services (1132 South Chugach St.) depending on the season.

Price: Free —FREE Bring in Social Security cards for everyone Runners can register for free at www.happyrunak.com on the tax form and photo ID cards for all adults. You do not have to be an AARP mem- This allows members to track their runs and if ber to receive this free service. Walk-ins are they register every week that they participate welcome. An AARP Tax-Aide Volunteer can they receive a shirt after 10 completed runs! help you. Site is staffed by AARP volunteers Runners receive a prize after 30, 50, and trained by certified AARP Tax-Aide Instructors 100 completed weekly Happy Runs. to prepare basic tax returns. E-file means it’s activesolesevents@gmail.com • 907-982-1463 fast, accurate AND it’s absolutely FREE. (907) 745-5454 • jwake@mtaonline.net WASILLA

Equinox Women’s Film Festival Mar. 27th @ 5:00pm - 10:00pm Glenn Massay Theater (8295 E College Dr.) Glenn Massay Theater’s 5th Annual Equinox Women’s Film Festival. The film festival features Live Music, food trucks, craft vendors, and short films that were produced, directed, and/or written by women and feature women as main characters.

(907) 746 - 9300

Your POWERHOUSE PANTRY with Ancient Grains and Legumes Mar. 15th and 16th @ 8:30am - 3:00pm The Palmer Granary (15091 E. Lazy Lady Ln.) This two day seminar features REAL FOOD workshops, with amazing cooking and baking demonstrations. Expect a hearty breakfast each morning, a nourishing lunch and more than enough information to fill your brain along with your belly! Debbie Deitz from Colorado Springs brings her vast expertise along with her pleasing presentation. Topics include... We are what we eat and drink! Learn about nutrients that address health issues. Benefits of grain groups ~ how to mix grains and beans. Experience several new Ancient Grains. Answers to FAD diets.

Develop a balanced, healthy eating plan to meet your body’s needs. Debuting not one, but TWO brand NEW BOSCH PLUS attachments!

DO IT YOURSELF Mixes = Real Fast Food ~ Delcious desserts and more! Accept the challenge to knowledgeably nourish yourself instead of just ‘fill your belly.’ Baking with fresh whole grains using the HARVEST MILL & BOSCH UNIVERSAL PLUS. Cooking with SIZZLE Pressure Pots by BRK. Your ticket includes Breakfast, Lunch, the Notebook full of recipes, charts and instructions, Desserts, & Door Prizes.

745-5639 • margaret@wholyliving.com

City of Wasilla 102nd Celebration Mar. 9th @ 5:00pm - 7:00pm Menard Sports Center (1001 S. Clapp St.) Remembering the 60’s & 70’s You may purchase tickets at the Wasilla Museum & Visitor Center, The Curtis D Menard Memorial Sports Center and the City of Wasilla Finance Dept.

Price: $20.00 —Food & DJ included 907-373-9050 • museum@ci.wasilla.ak.us The Little Mermaid (Stage Play) Mar. 22nd, 23rd @ 7:00pm - 9:30pm Valley Performing Arts (251 W. Swanson Ave.) Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid is filled with all of the things that families have loved about the animated classic with some of the best-known songs from the past 30 years. On sea or on land, this show will be one not to miss! valleyperformingarts.org

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LIVE LIFE WARM 22

GreatLander Bushmailer

June 2018

March 2019

GreatLander Mat-Su

19

Specialty Meats & Meat Package Deals!

Available for shipout to the bush!

WE ALSO DELIVER TO THE FAIRBANKS, WASILLA, AND ANCHORAGE AREAS

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mvmdeliveries.com

www.mvmeat.com • mvmeat@mtaonline.net Jumbo Freezer Filler

Deluxe Assortment Pack

20 lb. Lean Ground Beef 10 lb. Rib Steak 10 lb. Chuck Roast 10 lb. Round Steak 5 lb. Stew Meat 5 lb. Pork Sausage 5 lb. Bacon 10 lb. Pork Chops 10 lb. Pork Steak 20 lb. Whole Fryers 10 lb. Chicken Thighs 5 lb. Chicken Breasts 10 lb. Ham

Approx. 130 lb. $599

Family Pack

2 lb. Bacon 2 lb. Breakfast Sausage 10 lb. Lean Ground Beef 5 lb. Whole Chicken 6 lb. Chuck Roast 3 lb. Sirloin Roast 2 lb. Sirloin Steak 2 lb. Round Steak 5 lb. Pork Chops 3 lb. Ribs 3 lb. Pork Roast 2 lb. Italian Sausage

Approx. 45 lb.

$219

Steak Pack

For additional pricing on cases, local beef and hogs, or other packages visit mvmeat.com

40 lb. Lean Ground Beef 24 lb. Chuck Roast 6 lb. London Broil 6 lb. Top Sirloin Steak 6 lb. New York Steak 3 lb. Santa Anita Tri-tip 3 lb. Maui Wowie Ribs 20 lb. Pork Chops 14 lb. Pork Spareribs 20 lb. Whole Fryers 20 lb. Split Chicken Breasts 10 lb. Ham 6 lb. Bacon 6 lb. Pork Breakfast Sausage 6 lb. Italian Sausage

Approx. 190 lb. $839

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Approx. 20 lb.

16 lb. 93% Ground Beef 4 lb. Rib Eye Steak 4 lb. T-Bone Steak 12 lb. Round Roast 4 lb. Short Ribs 4 lb. Boneless Pork Chops 6 lb. Pork Roast 5 lb. Ham Streak 10 lb. Whole Chicken 10 lb. Chicken Drumsticks 5 lb. Assorted Cold Cuts

Approx. 80 lb.

Approx. 51 lb.

$349

Gourmet Pack 3 lb. Shoulder Bacon 2 lb. Breakfast Sausage 8 lb. 93% Ground Beef 2 lb. Shrimp 5 lb. Beef Rib Steak 3 lb. Beef New York Steak 2 lb. Filet Mignon 3 lb. Pork Chops 7 lb. Boneless Chicken Breast 5 lb. Italian Sausage

Approx. 40 lb.

$299

10 lb. Whole Fryer 8 lb. Game Hens 5 lb. Bnls Skinless Chicken Breast 5 lb. Chicken Thighs 5 lb. Chicken Drums 5 lb. Chicken Wings 20 lb. Whole Turkey

Budget Pack 5 lb. Chuck Roast 5 lb. Ground Beef 5 lb. Round Steak 5 lb. Pork Chops 5 lb. Pork Country Style Ribs 2 lb. Pork Sausage 3 lb. Bacon 5 lb. Chicken Breast 5 lb. Chicken Thighs 5 lb. Chicken Drumsticks

Approx. 45 lb.

$189

GreatLander Mat-Su

March 2019

$169

Pork Pack 5 lb. Bacon 5 lb. Breakfast Sausage 8 lb. Pork Chops 8 lb. Pork Roast 4 lb. Pork Steak 8 lb. Pork Spareribs 4 lb. Country Style Ribs 5 lb. Ham 3 lb. Smoked Ham Hocks

Approx. 50 lb.

All Steaks and Roasts Vacuumed Packed. Prices are Subject to Change Without Notice. Case Pricing and Case Weights Are Approximate.

20

$419

Poultry Pack

Approx. 58 lb.

15 lb. Lean Ground Beef 5 lb. London Broil 4 lb. T-Bone Steak 4 lb. Rib Steak 6 lb. Chuck Roast 3 lb. Sirloin Tip Roast 5 lb. Ribs 4 lb. New York Steak 5 lb. Stew meat

$229

Variety Pack

Beef Pack

4 lb. Beef New York Steak 4 lb. Beef T-Bone Steak 4 lb. Beef Rib Steak 4 lb. Beef Top Sirloin Steak 4 lb. Beef London Broil

$209

THIS MONTH’S DEALS!

THIS MONTH’S DEALS!