RVN - Alaskan Spirit | Issue 10 | Digital Edition

THE MAGAZINE OF RAVNAIR GROUP AND RURAL ALASKA

NOVEMBER 2019

HELLO WINTER! FAIRBANKS Exploring the Golden Heart City

YULETIDE HOLIDAYS Across Alaska

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On The Cover We are in the season of celebrations, from conventions to holiday festivals to Russian Christmas. This is the time to YLÅLJ[ [V HWWYLJPH[L HUV[OLY season of plenty and to share the joy of the season with friends and family. On our cover, a young woman from Western Alaska with the dance regalia she'll wear in many of the season's events.

Cover photo © Jeff Schultz/ AlaskaStock.com

Welcome to RavnAir Group Welcome aboard! We appreciate your business HUK ^HU[ [V THRL `V\Y ÅPNO[ and time with us enjoyable, comfortable and safe.

In Alaskan Spirit, we celebrate our people who live, work and play here—who contribute to the rich fabric of Alaska

through their many talents— [OL ÄZOLYTLU HUK I\PSKLYZ hunters and artists, educators and Olympic athletes.

Our stories are about our people and communities— these places that we love and connect and bring to life in the pages of this magazine.

At RavnAir Group, we enjoy (SHZRH HUK HSS P[ OHZ [V VɈLY We enjoy the people—our friends and neighbors—who call this place home. And we want you to enjoy Alaska and its people as well.

Thank you for traveling with us today at RavnAir Group.

Contents 6 Around RavnAir Country Where do you want to go and what do you want to do this fall? Here are some great things to do and places to visit in the more than 115 Alaska communities `V\ JHU Å` [V ^P[O 9H]U(PY HUK 7LU(PY

24 Waiting to Freeze

30 Celebrate Light

November is the season when fall really ends and winter is yet to lock PU ^P[O PJL 7H\S ([RPUZ YLÅLJ[Z VU [OL season between fall hunting and winter adventures.

For the kids this month, Erin Kirkland VɈLYZ PKLHZ MVY MHTPSPLZ [V JLSLIYH[L winter and introduce young Alaskans to the wonder of even the coldest days.

26 Bacon, whiskey and jam, oh my!

10 Join Us! RavnAir Group’s recruitment department is constantly looking for new talent to join our 1300-member team. Learn more about joining the RavnAir team too!

6\Y :\ZPL )YP[V VɈLYZ H MH]VYP[L UL^ recipe for blending some favorite ingredients into a wonderful holiday treat.

32 Winter By Air >OPSL TVZ[ ÅPNO[ZLLPUN ]PZP[Z [V (SHZRH are done during the warm summer months, P.M. Fadden shows us why taking wing might the very best way to see and explore winter Alaska.

28 The Russian Around Us 12 The Fairbanks We Love Here are 10 of our favorite things about Alaska’s Golden Heart City. In this issue’s expanded look at Fairbanks, in the following pages learn lot more reasons to visit, stay and play in the town that’s all about winter!

9\ZZPHU OPZ[VY` HUK PUÅ\LUJLZ HYL everywhere in our state 150 years after the purchase from Russia. Clark Fair talks with Gregory Weissenberg, who’s made a lifetime of revealing our Russian legacy.

November / December 2019

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Alaskan Spirit is published by Fireweed Strategies LLC. Publisher and Advertising: Lee Leschper Fireweed Strategies LLC 4849 Potter Crest Circle Anchorage, AK 99516 Lee.Leschper@FireweedStrategies.com 907-957-6025 Editorial: Will Leschper Design and Production: Southfork Graphic Services Contributors: Paul Atkins Susie Jenkins-Brito Mike Crownover PM Fadden Clark Fair Sara Harriger Erin Kirkland McKibben Jackinsky

RavnAir Group

Our RavnAir vision Connecting our passengers with friends, MHTPS` HUK HSS [OH[ (SHZRH OHZ [V VɈ LY RavnAir Group is the state’s largest YLNPVUHS HPYSPUL ^P[O TVYL [OHU Ă… PNO[Z a day serving 115 cities and villages across the 49th state.

RavnAir is Alaska’s homegrown airline providing safe, reliable and friendly service delivered by our Alaskan employees—all 1300 of us.

RavnAir Group Corporate Headquarters: RavnAir Alaska 4700 Old International Airport Road Anchorage, AK 99502 Phone: 907-248-4422 Fax: 907-266-8391

We travel to the farthest reaches of the largest state in the union—from Kodiak to Kaktovik, and St. Mary’s to Savoonga— transporting more than 800,000 passengers annually.

Statewide Reservations: Hours: Daily 7:00am to 7:00pm Phone: 1-800-866-8394 907-266-8394 (in state) Fax: 907-266-8391

Committed to exceptional service, we are also dedicated to supporting the communities we serve. Part of RavnAir’s corporate focus is to give back through the sponsorship of hundreds of local JOHYP[PLZ HUK UVUWYVÄ [ VYNHUPaH[PVUZ

Group Travel Desk: Flyravn.com/group-travel Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Phone: 907-266-8470 Fax: 907-245-5745 ,THPS! NYV\W [YH]LS'Ă… `YH]U JVT

supporting groups that contribute to the betterment and advancement of Alaska’s people and communities.

We recognize that it is an honor to connect people, cultures, vital cargo and even the daily mail as we strive to bring the very best in essential services to and from our state’s major hubs, while providing connectivity to the most remote locations.

As you travel throughout this great state, RavnAir pledges to deliver the same warmth and comfort in the air that you’ll Ä UK MYVT (SHZRHUZ ^OLYL]LY `V\ SHUK Whether we’re transporting a group of climbers to Denali, a family back to their village, or a sports team to their next big game, we are here to provide a safe and friendly experience during your travels.

We appreciate your patronage.

Charters: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Phone: 907-865-8577 JOHY[LYZ'Ă… `YH]U JVT FlyAway Rewards Program: Flyravn.com/rewards Phone: 1-800-866-8394 907-266-8394 (in Anchorage) *VUZ\TLY (Ɉ HPYZ! Flyravn.com/askravn ,THPS! JVUZ\TLY'Ă… `YH]U JVT RavnAir Alaska Air Cargo: 4750 Old International Airport Road Anchorage For more online at FlyRavn.com/cargo Phone: 907-243-2761 (UJOVYHNL *LU[YHS 6ɉ JL Corporate Sales: Phone: 907-865-8599 Fax: 907-266-8391 ,THPS! JVYWVYH[L ZHSLZ'Ă… `YH]U JVT

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Andy Witteman/Explore Fairbanks

From the CEO

Get out and visit our state!

As the leaves turn color and termination dust becomes more visible throughout the state, I’d like to encourage you all +H]PK 7ÅPLNLY to take a break from your everyday lives and get out and visit our great state.

Every summer, more than a million visitors come north to Alaska for the vacation of a lifetime. As Alaskans, we have a unique opportunity to visit these places all year round.

One uniquely Alaskan destination that PZ H X\PJR Ă…PNO[ MYVT TVZ[ WSHJLZ PU Southcentral and Northern Alaska is the Golden Heart City of Fairbanks.

-HPYIHURZ VɈLYZ THU` ^VUKLYM\S destinations that sometimes go undiscovered, as well as some great restaurants. In fact, some Fairbanks eateries like the Cookie Jar, have been

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featured nationally on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.� The dinner-plate sized country-fried steaks served up at the Cookie Jar is a favorite of locals. And as the name implies, cookies are a house specialty.

Fairbanks is a prime location to see the wonderful northern lights show. Whether you’re there on vacation or business, it’s easy to track the aurora borealis through the University of Alaska’s, www.gi.alaska. edu/monitors/aurora-forecast?.

Alaska’s brewery sector continues to grow and has also received attention in several national magazines. If you’re in Fairbanks, be sure to stop by HooDoo Brewing Company and get a close-up look at their three-vessel brewing system.

For a uniquely Alaskan experience you can’t get anywhere else, stop by Pike’s Waterfront Lodge and see if they’re playing the movie “North to Alaska.�

The quaint theater even has popcorn for movie-goers. Call the hotel in advance H[ [V THRL Z\YL [OL ÄST PZ showing while you’re in town.

0M `V\ÂťYL HU HY[ HĂ„JPVUHKV VY HU (SHZRHU who is interested in valuable and unique Alaska art, a visit to the Alaska House Art Gallery should be top of your list.

Located in a hand-built log cabin, the gallery features the work of iconic artist Claire Fejes. The owners open the gallery to poetry readings, live music and visiting exhibitions of rare Alaskan art. The Alaska House features monthly artist’s exhibits as well.

Whether you head to Fairbanks or points between, take time to enjoy this great state we are fortunate to call home.

Exploring Alaska has been one of the most rewarding parts of my job and something I look forward to.

Enjoy!

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RavnAir's Shanks joins Visit Anchorage board +LYLR :OHURZ *OPLM *VTTLYJPHS 6ɉJL

pillar of visitors to

“Ravn holds a unique

of RavnAir Group, has been elected to

our community

place in today’s industry

the Visit Anchorage Board of Directors.

and maintain our

as it is one of the few

Shanks has a 25-year background in the

ZPNUPÄJHUJL HZ H

successful independent

visitor industry.

destination,” Shanks

regional airlines

said.

operating in the U.S.

Shanks has been with RavnAir Group for more than two years, bringing unique

RavnAir Group is

experience to the board, having served

Alaska’s largest

as a global travel expert assisting

regional airline, serving

companies in the hotel, rental car and

115 communities

cruise line sectors, increase their sales and customer experience.

Its deep roots and long history of serving the people and communities

+LYLR :OHURZ

of Alaska provide a

across the state. As Chief Commercial 6ɉJLY :OHURZ PZ YLZWVUZPISL MVY SLHKPUN

solid foundation to do even more,” said Shanks.

“Working with an organization like Visit

the airline’s commercial team and all

Shanks has also held leadership positions

Anchorage is important. They are part

aspects of Ravn’s sales, marketing,

at British Airways and Air Mauritius, where

of the reason we have a solid economic

UL[^VYR WSHUUPUN HUK KPZ[YPI\[PVU LɈVY[Z

OL OLSWLK YL[\YU [OL HPYSPUL [V WYVÄ[HIPSP[`

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November through December

What’s Happening in RavnAir Country

Native Art Sale UWA 51st Annual Holiday Bazaar Fairbanks November 2-3

Alaska Miners Association Anchorage

Presented by University Women’s Association in Pioneer Park Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts, 2300 Airport Way, Pioneer Park. Daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The University Women's Association is a non-profit organization that raises money for scholarship awards and for donations to community projects. Nearly 100 vendor tables and craftspeople offering hand-crafted and locally made art. Plus live music and food. Free admission.

November 3-9

80th Anniversary of the State’s largest gatherings of the year, bringing more than 1,000 members of Alaska’s mining industry together for a week of training, speakers and history. Dena’ina Center. Trade Show open to the public Nov. 5-7.

Kenai November 8 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Browse a unique collection of Alaska Native and American Indian artwork at the Dena’ina Wellness Center in Old Towne Kenai. Beaded jewelry, sea otter hats and gloves, kuspuks and much more. www.KenaiChamber.org

www.AlaskaMiners.org

Alaska Resource Development Council Anchorage November 20-21

40th Annual Alaska Resources Conference, representing Alaska’s big five industries—energy, fishing, forestry, mining and tourism. Dena’ina Center.

AkRDC.org

Holiday Marketplace Fairbanks November 15-17

Wilderness Week Anchorage Museum November 5-9

Alaskans and Salmon Anchorage Museum Through January 19

This multi-media exhibition celebrates salmon culture in Alaska in its many forms, from commercial, subsistence and sport fishing, to processing, preserving and eating. Salmon are embedded in the lifeways and economy of Alaska, and the human relationship to this wild resource is complex, personal and deeply felt. Visitors to this exhibition will get a taste of how Alaskans experience, share, and savor the presence of salmon in their lives.

A series of programs focusing on Anchorage’s distinct position as an urban space in the Circumpolar North and ideas of wilderness and wild places. Includes author talks, photography workshop, film program, family art classes, fat tire bike tour and camp stove cookoff. www.AnchorageMuseum.org

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www.ExploreFairbanks.com

LIKE WHAT YOU SEE HERE? We want to include your events!

Email complete information to admin@fireweedstrategies.com

www.AnchorageMuseum.org

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The Holiday Marketplace is a highly anticipated one-stop Christmas shopping extravaganza for Fairbanks and outlying areas. Over 175 mini specialty shops are assembled in Fairbanks Carlson Center with thousands of gift ideas. Local and statewide vendors with great finds like one of a kind art, hand-made soap, unique jewelry, imported wool sweaters, photography, tasty treats and stylish clothing.

Christmas Comes to Kenai Kenai November 22

Kenai Fine Arts Guild Arts & Craft Fair @ KCHS 6th Annual Holiday Bazaar @ Challenger Learning Center.

Santa arrives at the Kenai Visitor & Cultural Center aboard a City of Kenai fire truck at 11 a.m. The Electric Lights Parade starts @ Spur View Road at 6 p.m. Along Frontage Rd. to the Kenai Chamber Cabin Parking lot followed by a bonfire and hot chocolate. Grand Finale Fireworks at 7 p.m. www.kenaichamber.org

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more, accompanied by live music from the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra and young Alaska dancers. Admission starting at $68. www.Anchorageconcerts.org

Christmas In Ice Fairbanks End of November-January

The six-week Christmas in Ice event takes place at the Winter Ice Park and features a variety of ice sculpting competitions where huge blocks of ice are carved into holiday-themed ice sculptures. A quintessentially family-friendly event, Christmas in Ice also has a frosty playground crafted out if ice equipped with a fantastic ice maze, ice twirlers and ice slides. The first weekend of December at North Pole’s Winterfest includes a candle lighting ceremony, a holiday bazaar, fireworks and a community tree lighting ceremony. www.ChristmasInIce.org

Anchorage International Film Festival

Winter Solstice Celebration

Anchorage December 6-15

Fairbanks Week of December 21

Holiday Lights at The Garden

A thought-provoking showcase of some of the best independent film and video from around the world. The festival is gearing up for its biggest, most well-orchestrated event ever.

Anchorage Botanical Garden November 30-January 11

www.anchoragefilmfestival. org/2019

Holiday Lights in the Garden is each evening 5-8 p.m. at Anchorage’s Botanical Garden. Enjoy hot drinks and a model train in the greenhouse, plus live music and bonfires on select evenings. $5 for members, $7 for non-members, free for children 6 and under. www.alaskabg.org

Downtown Fairbanks comes alive on and around the winter solstice, December 21 — the day that heralds the return of the light. Featuring fireworks that can’t be seen in the summertime, musical and artistic events and shopping for handmade Alaskan items. Stroll the streets and view delightful holiday decorations and light posts enamored with charming, lit-up snowflakes. www.ExploreFairbanks.com

Christmas In The Park Soldotna December 7

A favorite tradition in Soldotna, with Christmas performances and caroling, a visit from Santa and Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. Free hot chocolate and cookies. Soldotna Creek Park, 251 States Ave. in Soldotna.

The Nutcracker Ballet West Anchorage Atwood Concert Hall at the Performing Arts Center November 29-December 1

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Nutcracker at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts with the company that started it all 30 years ago–Ballet West, presented by Anchorage Concert Association. Feel the warmth and wonder of the holiday spirit when the curtain goes up at The Nutcracker. In honor of the 30thanniversary of this cherished tradition in Anchorage, Ballet West, the premier dance company that first performed The Nutcracker at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, returns. Their glorious production features fantastical sets, costumes, and special effects that leave audiences spellbound and cheering for

www.VisitSoldotna.com

1HZ <HDU·V (YH Torchlight Parade & Fireworks Alyeska Resort Girdwood December 31

Winterfest Talkeetna Month of December

Winterfest is a full month of events beginning with the Tree Decorating and Lighting Ceremony and culminating with the Wilderness Woman Competition, Bachelor Auction and Taste of Talkeetna. The Talkeetna Bachelor Society is a collection of single men who want to create the best possible living conditions and opportunities for women and children and help raise awareness of domestic violence, find ways to prevent it, and in the worst-case scenario provide treatment to its victims.

TalkeetnaChamber.org and TalkeetnaBachelors.com.

Swedish Christmas Open House Oscar Anderson Home Museum, Anchorage December 7-15

Annual Swedish Christmas Open House is held the first two weekends of December. Visit the holiday-decorated Oscar Anderson home.

The Torchlight Parade consists of volunteer skiers and snowboarders in a procession down the slope creating a stunning visual effect. Immediately following, fireworks will illuminate the sky for a finale show. This event is free and open to the public. The best viewing is at the Daylodge base area.

Participants include: Alyeska Ski Club, Big Alaska Snowboard Club, Challenge Alaska and Alyeska employees. www.alyeskaresort.com

www.aahp-online.net/oscar-anderson-house-museum

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RavnAir leading Alaska aviation safety RavnAir Group is taking a leadership role in setting higher standards for aviation safety throughout Alaska.

Alaska through strategic initiatives such

In that vein, RavnAir was proud to participate in a National Transportation Safety Board summit in Anchorage in September.

technologies currently available to the

The summit’s focus was preventable accidents among Part 135 carriers in

a keynote participant in the summit, along

as improved training, risk management techniques and implementing industry.

Robert Sumwalt, Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board was with Dana Schulze, the NTSB’s Director of

Aviation Safety, and Kerry Long, Alaska’s Regional Administrator from the Federal Aviation Administration.

Part 135 carriers are those providing air transportation for hire and required to TLL[ YLX\PYLTLU[Z MVY ÅPNO[ VWLYH[PVUZ maintenance and training.

Acknowledging that Alaska has a myriad of issues not faced in other states, including treacherous terrain and extreme weather conditions, Sumwalt indicated a desire for Alaska Part 135 carriers to do better.

9H]U(PY .YV\W 7YLZPKLU[ +H]L 7ÅPLNLY played an integral role in the summit, as his focus since taking on the leadership role at Ravn has been to improve safety not just with Ravn, but all carriers in the state. ¸4` HWWYVHJO PZ PM H ÅPNO[ PZU»[ ZHML MVY myself and my family, it’s not acceptable [V VWLYH[L [OH[ WSHUL VY [OH[ ÅPNO[ Our goal at Ravn is to elevate the bar and create a safer environment for all Alaskans who travel on Part 135 carriers,” 7ÅPLNLY ZHPK 7ÅPLNLY LTWOHZPaLK [OL ULLK MVY [OL federal government to implement aviation technology in the 49th state, including transponders that provide pilots the SVJH[PVU VM V[OLY WSHULZ Å`PUN PU [OL HYLH This sort of technology can help prevent TPK HPY JVSSPZPVUZ 9H]U(PY»Z ÅLL[ OHZ [OH[ necessary technology.

NTSB Chairman Sumwalt said implementation of standardized safety policies and better technology are important.

At the conclusion of the full-day panel, Sumwalt said he was pleased with the participation of all the organizations and carriers, and its potential to provide actionable items that will elevate safety in Alaska.

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Building the best team

Recruiters share the RavnAir story— great people, opportunity and culture What makes a great airline? It’s the team of more than 1300 people who help RavnAir do their jobs safely, on time and with excitement every day. RavnAir Group Corporate Recruitment is a dedicated part of that team that helps to bring new people to RavnAir every day.

Merry Engebretson is Manager of Corporate Recruitment for RavnAir Group.

RavnAir’s Corporate Recruitment team of three—Merry, Dana Nicholas and Miriah Aquino—focuses on attracting highly X\HSPÄ LK WLVWSL [V ^VYR MVY 9H]U(PY

a premium on scheduling pilots and mechanics so they can be home each night, compared to the overnight travel required by most airlines.

“We support hiring managers across the company with their hiring needs,” Merry said. “With 1300 employees, we often could have anywhere from 30 to 60 open positions that we’re working on at any given time and that is not necessarily counting pilots and mechanics.”

The connection our employees develop with the communities they service is very important to RavnAir, she said.

Merry laughs when asked about the ZWLSSPUN VM OLY Ä YZ[ UHTL “My parents wanted me to be a happy person! They wished happiness for me and I try to share that every day!”

Merry brings an infectious enthusiasm to everything she does, but especially the role of building a strong RavnAir team.

“Pilots and mechanics are very much H KPɈ LYLU[ JOHSSLUNL UV[ VUS` ILJH\ZL there is a global shortage of these professionals but also because we have a small pool of local talent to work with in the state.”

That’s somewhat because an aviation career isn’t always something young Alaskans think they can aspire to, she said.

“In Alaska it’s interesting that people don’t know that a career in aviation is something they can achieve, when they grow up. I think that perception has only been changing in more recent years, as they realize if they’re interested PU H]PH[PVU [OL` JHU Å ` WYVMLZZPVUHSS` VY OH]L H M\SÄ SSPUN JHYLLY THPU[HPUPUN aircraft. There are now multiple programs that allow them to do that in Alaska, so they don’t even have to leave the state to get the training.”

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“We have employees including pilots, and mechanics, who have grown up in Alaska, and are now serving their communities in these essential roles.” RavnAir puts

“That’s the most important thing for us. ;OL [`WL VM Å `PUN [OH[ `V\ KV PU (SHZRH PZ ]LY` KPɈ LYLU[ HUK ^L ILJVTL H WHY[ of the communities that we serve. With air transportation being a way of life up here, our front-line employees have the opportunity to see and interact with many of the same people throughout the year.

“It’s not just that we bring passengers or cargo to our destinations. Our team members participate in community events, they go to potlatches and festivals and they build friendships. That is really great to be part of that kind of experience. It’s not the standard pathway for pilots, who usually have to live in a crash pad far from home for part of the month and lead a fairly lonely life away from family and friends.”

Her career began in recruiting for the oil and gas industry in Alaska, before she joined RavnAir in 2018 to build the recruitment department.

“As the company continued to grow and as the work load continued to expand for PUKP]PK\HS THUHNLYZ P[ ILJHTL KPɉ J\S[ MVY them to keep up with hiring on top of their daily job duties, which are really about making the company better each day.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our whole job in the recruitment department is about working collaboratively with the various hiring managers to keep their teams strong. We participate in networking and recruiting events so that we can share the stories of our amazing colleagues and to get people excited about RavnAir as an option for their career.â&#x20AC;?

Talking about RavnAir is easy, she said, ILJH\ZL [OL JVTWHU` VÉ&#x2C6; LYZ LTWSV`LLZ many advantages. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I always think about our managers and leadership, some of whom have been with the company a long time, more than 20 years. When I ask them why they choose to work at RavnAir Group, no matter which department Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m working with, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always the same couple of things. It comes down to: 1) The people we work with are top notch; 2) The opportunities available within the company for advancement, because you can continue to grow professionally and have a successful career hereâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;more than 20 years is not unusual at all; and 3) The culture of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the focus on safety, on our employees, the ability to do more in communities, literally to connect people. It feels good to be a part of that.

That culture is something the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior leadership really encourages, she added. ¸+H]L 9H]U(PY .YV\W *,6 +H]L 7Ă&#x2026; PLNLY genuinely likes people. He's a true leader and a people person who really cares about his employees and the success of RavnAir Group.â&#x20AC;?

Many new employees were recruited by current RavnAir employees, who want to share a good thing with their friends. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are a power to be reckoned with,â&#x20AC;? said RavnAir Director of Marketing Missy Roberts of the Corporate Recruitment

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4LYY` ,UNLIYL[ZVU +HUH 5PJOVSHZ HUK 4PYPHO (X\PUV" 9H]U(PY .YV\WÂťZ *VYWVYH[L 9LJY\P[TLU[ [LHT

team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With a shortfall of talent across the world this group keeps RavnAir above the line in pilot needs. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not easy but they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to take â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;noâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for an answer.

While recruiting for the entire company they are tireless when it comes to both pilots and mechanics.â&#x20AC;?

A newly launched partnership with the University of Alaska is paying dividends as well, the recruiters say. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Students are now realizing they can get JLY[PĂ&#x201E; LK PU (SHZRH HUK [OLU Z[H` OLYL [V work, that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to leave the Z[H[L [V SLHYU [V Ă&#x2026; ` VY Z[HY[ [OLPY JHYLLY š Merry said.

The ability to both work and live the Alaska life is a powerful incentive, too, she added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For a lot of people, it is a dream to want to Ă&#x2026; ` IPN HPYWSHULZ \U[PS [OL` YLHSPaL [OH[ [OL` may need to move or commute to a major hub in the Lower 48. They have to be away MYVT [OLPY OVTL ^P[O SP[[SL [V UV Ă&#x2026; L_PIPSP[` PU [OLPY ZJOLK\SL [V O\U[ HUK Ă&#x201E; ZO HUK IL with their families. With RavnAir Group, when they are home, they are HOME. They can make plans, do what they want, and still sleep in their own bed at night.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The kind of training and experience that ^L VÉ&#x2C6; LY PU IV[O V\Y -SPNO[ 6WLYH[PVUZ and Maintenance departments is very attractive to larger carriers, so our pilots and mechanics can get experience here and move to a larger carrier if thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the career they want. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a lifestyle that works for everyone. My husband is

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a pilot for a major airline and it has its challenges.â&#x20AC;?

-S`PUN PU (SHZRH I` P[ZLSM VÉ&#x2C6; LYZ H \UPX\L experience that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get anywhere else, she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What is so cool about what we do, is the unique approaches to places like Kodiak, +\[JO /HYIVY HUK =HSKLa >L Ă&#x2026; ` JVVS planes to cool places, close to home.â&#x20AC;?

(Z `V\ÂťK L_WLJ[ 9H]U(PY HSZV VÉ&#x2C6; LYZ ^VYSK JSHZZ ILULĂ&#x201E; [Z [V LTWSV`LLZ¡ health care with medical, dental and ]PZPVU JV]LYHNL WHPK WLYZVUHS [PTL VÉ&#x2C6; plus a 401K retirement plan including a company match, something few other JVTWHUPLZ Z[PSS VÉ&#x2C6; LY But RavnAir employees also get great [YH]LS ILULĂ&#x201E; [Z VU IV[O 9H]U(PY HUK P[Z WHY[ULY HPYSPULZ HZ ^LSS HZ ZPNUPĂ&#x201E; JHU[ discounts on other travel including hotels, auto rentals and activities like cruises. >P[O H Ă&#x2026; LL[ VM HPYJYHM[ ZLY]PUN TVYL than 115 communities, we are always looking for good people to join our team. All RavnAir employment openings are listed online at www.Flyravn.com/ employment. There you can do everything from compare jobs to submit applications to jobs@ravnairgroup.com.

The RavnAir team is also represented at dozens of job fairs and events throughout the state, so look for them at events you attend.

Learn more at www.FlyRavn.com.

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Chris Harper

10 things we love about Fairbanks

FCVB

Charming Downtown

Explore Fairbanks

Basecamp to Adventure

Fantastic Aurora Fairbanks is the best place in the U.S. to see the northern lights. The city is located under the Auroral Oval— a ring-shaped zone over the far north where aurora activity is concentrated—which means more chances to see the aurora borealis. Fairbanks’ low precipitation and distance from coastal areas contributes to consistently clear nights. These variables make the Fairbanks region an outstanding destination for aurora borealis viewing.

6ɉJPHSS` (\YVYH :LHZVU PZ August 21-April 21.

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Fairbanks is the ideal basecamp for exploring Alaska’s Interior and Arctic.

Denali National Park is two hours away. The Arctic Circle and Yukon River are an HJJLZZPISL Ä]L [V ZP_ OV\Y drive. Many villages without road access, refuges and WHYRZ HYL Q\Z[ H ZOVY[ ÅPNO[ away. Cross the Arctic Circle and explore regions farther north like the Brooks Range, the Gates of the Arctic National Park, or Coldfoot. The “Adventure Corridor” leads to Valdez and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Singular places like Barrow, Nome, Fort Yukon, Beaver, Bettles, Anaktuvuk Pass and Coldfoot are all within reach. Auto rentals, air and ground transportation, N\PKLK LJV [V\YZ ÄZOPUN HUK boat charters and wildlife tours can be arranged through WYVMLZZPVUHS V\[Ä[[LYZ 3L[ the warmth and knowledge of local guides help you discover these vast and beautiful lands.

Downtown Fairbanks is a delightful blend of old and new. Historic buildings dating back to gold rush days, a vibrant contemporary art scene, an array of delicious eating and drinking establishments, museums, a plethora of shops, the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center and, in the center of town, iconic Golden Heart Plaza.

Pedestrian-friendly and easily walkable year-round, one JHU HS^H`Z ÄUK H ]HYPL[` VM unexpected public artworks around town. Steam vents are painted, murals abound and sculptures—both permanent and seasonal ice sculptures— adorn downtown streets and businesses.

seven in Pioneer Park alone. The knowledgeable and friendly folks at these establishments expertly share the history, stories and local way of life in the Golden Heart of Alaska. One of the most impressive antique automobile collections in the country at the Antique Auto Museum at Wedgewood Resort. Visit the iconic University of Alaska Museum of the North for in-depth discoveries about Alaska Native cultures, natural wonders and a legacy of Alaskan art. The Fairbanks Children’s Museum is a must visit if traveling with kids.

For more information, the information specialists at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center can be a big help.

Matt Hage / ATIA

Golden Heart of Alaska

Healing Mineral Waters

Museums & Cultural Centers Fairbanks has character, no doubt about it. When visiting, be sure to explore the many unique museums and visitor centers. At last count there are 17 in Fairbanks, including

From Fairbanks, it’s an easy and scenic drive to Chena Hot Springs Road (56 miles long).

Chena Hot Springs Road dead ends at Chena Hot Springs Resort, the world-class hot springs renowned for its outstanding outdoor rock lake, year-round ice museum, family activities, excellent northern lights viewing opportunities and focus on renewable geothermal energy.

Let the resort’s healing, mineral-rich outdoor rock lake

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There are a wide range of outstanding dining options in Fairbanks. There are international restaurants, Alaska style diners, locally sourced food cafes and [Y\JRZ MHZ[ MVVK JVɈ LL ZOVWZ and more. Did you know that Fairbanks is considered the Thai Food capital of the State, with more than twenty Thai restaurants in the area?

Fairbanks is wild for Thai food and getting a taste should be on any visitor’s list. And if you’re thirsty, the Fairbanks area is also home to four craft breweries and four distilleries.

Pioneer Park The 44-acre Pioneer Park is a centrally located, historically themed park beloved by

how to harness and hook up the dogs at a mushing school, then lead the team on an unforgettable run through miles of trails. Throughout Aurora Season, take in the awe-inspiring Alaska sky at night on a mushing and northern lights combination tour. There are also tours of working kennels where you can meet the dogs and hear stories from local mushers.

Spectators can choose from a wide array of races, from smaller sprint-races to the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race, an epic 1,000mile race between Fairbanks and Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada.

Alaska’s State Sport +VN T\ZOPUN PZ [OL Vɉ JPHS state sport of Alaska and [OLYL HYL THU` KPɈ LYLU[ ^H`Z to experience it yourself in Fairbanks. Realize your dream of dashing through the snow on a sled pulled by a team of dogs on a one-hour, half-day or multi-day mushing tour.

Whether riding in the basket or driving your own sled, you’ll appreciate the instinctive power of these amazing animals. Learn about the tradition of dog mushing in the Arctic, while you experience the excitement of the sport Ä YZ[OHUK ;OLZL H\[OLU[PJ interactive mushing tours VɈ LY THY]LSV\Z ]PL^Z VM [OL Alaskan wilderness. Learn

Ice Art Fairbanks’ Far North locale gives artists the opportunity to create ethereal sculptures out of crystal-clear ice.

Residents and visitors alike can watch incredible artworks emerge from locally harvested enormous blocks of “Arctic Diamond” ice that can weigh up to two tons. The amazing sculptures rival those wrought from stone. In Fairbanks, ice art is not only remarkable but commonplace during winter months with sculptures found all around town. The ice art is awe inspiring, but it can also be interactive. There

are slides and rides for all ages, mazes and life-sized sculptures of animals and characters to touch and climb on. Two Ice Museums operate in the Fairbanks area—one in summer downtown and the other at Chena Hot Springs Resort is open year-round.

Jade Frank

Fantastic Local Fare

visitors and locals alike. The WHYR VɈ LYZ H ^PKL HYYH` VM family- and visitor-friendly activities showcasing Fairbanks history through a bounty of museums and outdoor recreational areas.

Many engaging attractions call the park home including the Bear Art Gallery, a historic sternwheeler, a carousel, a notable operational narrow gauge train, relics from the gold rush era and more.

Historic log cabins that were moved to the park turn into summertime shops and eateries.

Rhonda Konicki / Ice Alaska

photo credit

relax your body and warm your soul. One hundred years ago, gold miners and early Alaskan pioneers rested their weary souls and bodies here in natural outdoor hot springs.

North Pole North Pole, Alaska, where “the spirit of Christmas lives year-round” is just a short 20-minute drive from Fairbanks. Drive along Santa Claus Lane and admire the streetlights decorated in candy cane motifs. Visit the Santa Claus House and browse holiday-inspired gifts for everyone on your list. ;OL ¸Vɉ JPHS¹ OVTL VM :HU[H Claus welcomes thousands of people from all over the world throughout the year.

Embrace the season with a charming letter from Santa to friends and family back home with an authentic North Pole postmark. Live reindeer and an opportunity for a photograph with Santa Claus are available year around.

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Photo courtesy of Explore Fairbanks

Northern Lights remain Fairbanks’ number one winter attraction >HU[ [V RUVJR UVY[OLYU SPNO[Z ]PL^PUN VɈ your bucket list?

Fairbanks is one of the best places on earth to do just that. Fairbanks’ renowned aurora viewing lures people from all over the world during Aurora Season which continues through April.

The community’s location is ideal for northern lights viewing because it is directly under the “Auroral Oval”—a ring-shaped zone over the far north where aurora activity is concentrated and low precipitation in Fairbanks contributes to consistently clear nights. This makes the Fairbanks region an outstanding destination for possible aurora viewing.

Explore Fairbanks has built the Aurora Tracker for the website to assist visiting chasers. The Aurora Tracker correlates three individual streams of data in order to predict northern lights viewing opportunities for six locations in the

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Fairbanks region. Data streams include aurora forecast data from the Geophysical Institute, weather forecast data for ZWLJPÄJ ]PL^PUN SVJH[PVUZ HUK [OL HTV\U[ of daylight hours.

The aurora is visible in Fairbanks an H]LYHNL VM MV\Y V\[ VM Ä]L UPNO[Z ^OLU [OL sky is clear and dark. Visitors who stay a minimum of three nights and are out during the late evening hours have a 90 percent chance of seeing the aurora.

The solar wind occurs daily and is the wellspring of most aurora activity.

Additionally, there are occasional solar storms, correlated with sunspots and the 11-year solar cycle, that also create auroras.

Because of its far north position under the “Auroral Oval,” Fairbanks is not impacted by [OL `LHY ZVSHY J`JSL [OH[ HɈLJ[Z H\YVYH viewing in other parts of the world.

“Since any auroral activity, even at the lowest level, is visible from Fairbanks,

VIZLY]PUN PZ UV[ HɈLJ[LK I` [OL ZVSHY cycle,” said Don Hampton, Research Assistant Professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute.

There are many intriguing ways for visitors to chase the aurora in Fairbanks. They can drive to a nearby vantage point and wait for them to appear, view them from a heated “aurorium” cabin or lodge away from the city, see them on a dog sled adventure, or even on a tour farther north above the Arctic Circle.

Many lodging properties in Fairbanks VɈLY H ^HRL \W JHSS [V HSLY[ N\LZ[Z ^OLU the lights are out. Once visitors have witnessed the aurora, they can stop by the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center in downtown Fairbanks for a free, WLYZVUHSPaLK H\YVYH JLY[PÄJH[L MYVT Explore Fairbanks.

Find out more at www.explorefairbanks. com.

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Photos courtesy Explore Fairbanks

Christmas in Ice This Fairbanks annual event runs November 30, 2019 through January 26, 2020 and brings even more holiday spirit to the year-round Christmas community. The ice park features a Christmas-themed ice art competition during the month of December with sculptures by local and international carvers. After a day spent exploring the artists unique handiwork, visitors can make a trip to the popular Santa Claus House to check out its recent renovations and expansions. The extra space allows for more shopping choices, more room for Santa to visit with guests and a new sweet shop, featuring fresh baked cookies and homemade fudge.

ChristmasInIce.org

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Tanana Lakes provide yeararound fun and beauty “Come to relax. Come to exercise. Come to get away.”

Looking for a beautiful and fun way to get outside, enjoy nature and get a bit of exercise in Fairbanks? Look no further than the Tanana Lakes Recreation Area!

Just minutes from downtown Fairbanks, the Tanana Lakes Recreation Area is a 750-acre multi-use recreation HYLH ;OPZ WHYR VɈ LYZ WSLU[` VM V\[KVVY opportunities year-round for people of all

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ages including boating, swimming, and hiking in the summer. The Recreation Area features two sandy swimming beaches, motorized and non-motorized SHRLZ WH]PSPVU YPÅ L YHUNL HJJLZZPISL playground, hiking & ATV trails, picnic sites, and two sand volleyball courts.

by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game with rainbow trout and chinook salmon. The Tanana River, which is also accessible from the recreation area, has HYJ[PJ NYH`SPUN UVY[OLYU WPRL ^OP[LÄ ZO and burbot. Wintertime features a skating pond, and ice-skating trail and ski trails.

Fishing is a great all age, year-round activity. Tanana Lakes is stocked annually

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Tanana Lakes Recreation Area Open 7 days a week: 7:00am - 10:00pm - winter 7:00am - 11:00pm - summer -VY H M\SS SPZ[ VM WHYR VÉ&#x2C6;LYPUNZ HJ[P]P[PLZ and rules, please visit www.parks.fnsb.us

All photos courtesy of Fairbanks North Star Borough parks and Recreation Department

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With thanks to all who

Center preserves Alaska Native languages Sara Harriger, Executive Director, Morris Thompson Center

participated, and to the project partners: Doyon Language Foundation, Tanana Chiefs Conference Cultural Programs, the Alaska Native Language Center at UAF, Denakkanaaga, and the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. To learn more about the

The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center in the heart of Fairbanks, Alaska is ¸`V\Y Ä YZ[ Z[VW PU -HPYIHURZ ¹ >LSJVTPUN over 150,000 visitors each year, it’s where a guest can learn about the services, activities, and outdoor adventures that only 0U[LYPVY (SHZRH VɈ LYZ 0[»Z HSZV H MVJHS WVPU[ VM [OL JVTT\UP[` VɈ LYPUN ZWHJL MVY TLL[PUNZ and events that highlight the best of what the HYLH OHZ [V VɈ LY [V [OVZL ^OV SP]L OLYL From artists’ shows to handcrafted gifts in the Alaska Native Gift Shop to children’s Ä KKSL WYHJ[PJL [OL I\PSKPUN PZ I\YZ[PUN ^P[O activity and attractions. Recently, a new VɈ LYPUN OHZ IYV\NO[ SVJHSZ [V [OL JLU[LY! a series of educational presentations and activities centered around Alaska Native Languages.

The more than 20 Native languages found in Alaska represent diverse language families and ways of life. Generations of trauma have disrupted the learning processes of these languages. Still heard in homes and classrooms and archival recordings, they are less often spoken in the public sphere. Place names that come from these languages roll VɈ (SHZRHU [VUN\LZ LHZPS` @L[ MVY THU` non-speakers such encounters with Native language go unquestioned, or unnoticed.

0U Ä ]L 0U[LYPVY (SHZRH VYNHUPaH[PVUZ came together to amplify Alaska Native Languages in the public sphere by organizing a year of free Native language events at the Morris Thompson Center.

The series launched with a community discussion of Land Acknowledgements, MVSSV^LK I` H Z\TTLY»Z ^VY[O VM VUL VɈ introductory language classes packed with resources for learners. Speakers included Denakkanaaga Second Chief Reverend

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Anna Frank, Walkie Charles, Hishinlai’ Peter, Judith Ramos, Ron Brower Sr., Ket’soo Paskvan, Irene Titus, and Siri Tuttle. Doyon Foundation did a public launch of their new online language learning modules and conducted a series of fun language activities for children and their caregivers in Denaakk’e.

series of events or view video footage, go to www.facebook.com/ MorrisThompsonCenter.

Doyon Foundation is recruiting participants for online learning.

Learn more: www. doyonfoundation.com/

The events attracted audiences of speakers, learners, and non-speakers alike. A hallmark of the events was open conversation. “My uncle Morris was known as a bridge builder,” said Morris Thompson Center Board President Audrey George, “and the place we named after him is a bridge between communities, too. With these Native Language events, we wanted to welcome everyone here to learn and ask questions.

We had Native people and non-Native people, locals and visitors, all listening and talking and asking about language learning.

They were connecting to history with each other, asking about how to teach their kids, asking about how to show their respect to others as they learned. This has been a great partnership and I hope we can continue to work together to do more.”

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u o Y k n a Th (UH )HZP» Benhti Kenaga’ (Lower Tanana)

+VNPKPUO Deg Xinag

)HHZLL» 4HHZLL» Denaakk’e (Koyukon)

/ǃȠ»LJLJ Gwich’in

4p ý OZP» Hän

“It was a joy to partner in this summer's lecture series,” Allan Hayton, Director of Language Revitalization at the Doyon Foundation,” said.

?PZPNPKHZPKO\[ Holikachuk

;ZxU»LJLJ Tanacross

“I learned a little bit more with each presentation, and I could tell the audiences did as well. I was happy to see this kind of positive exchange between Alaska Natives and the general public. There is a great deal of curiosity and interest in Alaska Native languages, but not many opportunities for them to be shared in a public forum like the Morris Thompson stage.”

;ZLU»HUO Upper Kuskokwim

;ZLU»ȠȠ Upper Tanana

8\`HUHX Inupiaq

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Photo by Sherman Hogue/Explore Fairbanks

Fairbanks’ thriving local food scene, breweries and distilleries

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Fairbanks is a wonderful place to visit, eat and drink.

Made in Fairbanks

Local foods, breweries and distilleries VɈ LY J\SPUHY` KLSPNO[Z `LHY YV\UK -YVT Ä UL KPUPUN [V MVVK [Y\JRZ [V seasonal markets, the local food scene in Fairbanks is delightfully delicious.

Fairbanks’ eclectic palate has given rise [V JVZTVWVSP[HU JHMtZ VɈ LYPUN Z\ZOP vegan, Indian, barbeque, Vietnamese, Italian and Thai. If you are looking for some Alaskan-style home cooking, many restaurants use local produce, meat and seafood in their recipes.

regional resources into for-sale items

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Homegrown small businesses turn such as Alaskan jams and honeys, birch tree syrups and candies, mustards, vinegars and baked goods.

JVɈ LL YVHZ[LK I` [OL +P]PUN +\JR [OL farthest north 100 percent organic and fair-trade roaster, is sold in eateries and markets around town and the North Pole *VɈ LL 9VHZ[PUN *VTWHU` HUK [OL (SHZRH *VɈ LL 9VHZ[PUN *V HSZV VɈ LY MYLZO YVHZ[LK JVɈ LLZ HUK ZWLJPHS[` KYPURZ

Hot Licks Homemade (iconic pink) Ice Cream parlor creates super premium ice

Thai Food

cream using wild Alaskan blueberries,

-HPYIHURZ PZ ^PSK MVY ;OHP MVVK ;OPZ Ä YTS` established fact is proven by the well over twenty Thai restaurants in the area. Thai drive-throughs, fancy Thai, organic locally sourced Thai, made-from-scratch noodle

HUK -HPYIHURZ UV^ IVHZ[Z MV\Y JVɈ LL roasters! The artsy and welcoming 4J*HɈ LY[`»Z ( *VɈ LL /V\ZL ,[J PZ H local favorite situated downtown. The

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Thai, super-spicy Thai, food truck Thai— the list goes on and on and the quality is remarkably good across the board.

Ubiquitous, healthy and truly delicious, Thai food is an unexpected surprise in Fairbanks. Try Lemongrass Thai Cuisine near the University, a hot spot dating back to the 1980s.

Fairbanks Distilleries & Breweries Summon the spirits with a visit to one of nine local distilleries or breweries. Ursa Major uses barley from Delta Junction to craft smooth spirits including Alaska’s ÄYZ[ Y\T HZ ^LSS HZ 3VUN >PU[LY =VKRH Downtown’s Fairbanks Distilling Company serves high-latitude, ultra-premium spirits made from Alaskan-sourced grains, berries and potatoes. Hoarfrost Distilling MLH[\YLZ ]VKRH THKL I` OHUK HUK VɈLYZ P[Z ÅHNZOPW *Y`Z[HS =VKRH I` [OL IV[[SL while Arctic Harvest truly embraces the phrase “farm to table” as they grow all the grains used to make their high-end spirits.

0M `V\ WYLMLY JYHM[ ILLY [OLYL HYL Ä]L exceptional breweries to choose from—the “unusually good” Silver Gulch Brewing and Bottling Co. located in Fox that features brews like Fairbanks Lager and Coldfoot Pilsner, the hip and happening HooDoo Brewing Company [OH[ VɈLYZ ¸3VJHS MYLZO ILLY IYL^LK in the heart of Alaska” as well as Black Spruce Brewing Company, Midnite Mine Brewing Company and the 49th State Brewery near Denali National Park.

Photo by Sherman Hogue/Explore Fairbanks

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;PT ,SILSS -HPYIHURZ MYHUJOPZLL HUK ]L[LYHU MHY SLM[ WYLZLU[Z :\I^H`»Z KVUH[PVU MVY <:6»Z UH[PVUHS WYVNYHTZ ^OPSL (TILY .YVɈ YLZ[H\YHU[ THUHNLY VM [OL :\I^H` YLZ[H\YHU[ VU 1),9 HUK *PUK` 7LYMLJ[ :\I^H` YLZ[H\YHU[ THUHNLY H[ .V]LYUTLU[ /PSS WYLZLU[ H KVUH[PVU MVY [OL <:6»Z (SHZRH WYVNYHTZ (SZV WPJ[\YLK! *OYPZ >PSZVU ]PJL WYLZPKLU[ VM :\I^H` VM (SHZRH 0UJ 3HUJL ;OYVW KPZ[YPJ[ THUHNLY VM :\I^H` VM (SHZRH 0UJ .SLUKH 7H\SZLU KPZ[YPJ[ THUHNLY VM :\I^H` VM (SHZRH" HUK 7H[[P *HYZVU VWLYH[PVUZ HUK WYVNYHT THUHNLY VM <:6 (SHZRH ;OL` HYL Z\YYV\UKLK I` TLTILYZ (PY -VYJL ZLY]PJL TLU HUK ^VTLU

Giving back to the Alaska military family

By McKibben Jackinsky

What do sandwiches and Alaska’s long history supporting the military having in common?

Quite a lot, it turns out.

Inspired by community-mindedness and personal experience in the military, Alaska Subway restaurants are supporting the USO, United Service Organizations Inc., programs to raise morale when active duty military personnel are stationed far from home, guarding against loneliness following a family member’s deployment, and VɈLYPUN H ZLUZL VM WSHJL MVY [OVZL PU unfamiliar settings.

“I remember being 19 and away from OVTL MVY [OL ÄYZ[ [PTL ¹ ZHPK ;PT ,SILSS H Subway franchisee who came to Alaska in 1988, courtesy of the United States Air Force. Stationed at Eielson AFB, south of

After being discharged, Elbell stayed in Alaska and found employment at Subway.

From being the maintenance guy to Sandwich Artist to IT problem-solver, he discovered it was a work setting he enjoyed. So much so that he has owned Subway franchises for two decades, with 11 restaurants in the North Star Borough and in Valdez. He is determined to pay forward the support he received after arriving in Fairbanks.

“These guys are being asked to go and do some things that are pretty tough sometimes,” he said of today’s military.

“They’re right out there, guarding the freedoms and liberties we sometimes take for granted.”

In Anchorage, Steve Adams is president of Subway of Alaska, Inc. He’s also Honorary Commander of the 962nd at JBER, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, a recognition by the Air Force that Adams

Fairbanks, the separation Elbell felt being away from his hometown was eased by his new community’s welcome.

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ADVERTORIAL

plays a key role in bringing the unit and community together. Adams and his mother, Bobbie Scribner, founded Subway of Alaska, Inc., opening their ÄYZ[ YLZ[H\YHU[ PU (UJOVYHNL PU 0U 2019, Subway was one of the state’s 100 leading employers.

In addition to Subway franchises in Anchorage and Eagle River, Adams and Chris Wilson, vice president of Subway of Alaska Inc., co-own the Girdwood Subway.

Adams and Wilson’s list of community partners includes Anchorage-area schools, the American Heart Association’s Heart Run and Heart Walk, the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure, Providence Hospital’s Children’s Hospital, several University of Alaska programs, Native Youth Olympics, and United Way of Anchorage, to name a few. Like Elbell in Fairbanks, they also partner with USO. In Kodiak, Subway franchisee Dan Rohrer maintains close ties to the military through similar community support.

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According to Alaska Department of Labor statistics, in 2017, the Coast Guard accounted for 17 percent of the emerald island’s total population, with Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak the largest PUZ[HSSH[PVU PU [OL ZLY]PJL»Z 7HJPÄ J (YLH Patti Carson, operations and program manager for the USO’s Alaska Chapter, RUV^Z Ä YZ[OHUK OV^ :\I^H`»Z LɈ VY[Z touch lives.

“We had a JBER service member who was deployed, not married, and had two small children,” said Carson. “The aunt TV]LK MYVT H KPɈ LYLU[ Z[H[L [V JHYL MVY the children during the mother’s lengthy deployment. Then the grandmother also came up to help.”

Twice-a-week free meals available to families at Alaska’s military installations, a Subway-supported USO program,

VɈ LYLK [OL H\U[ HUK NYHUKTV[OLY H IYLHR from cooking and provided them and the children with social connections and assurance they were being cared for.

“That’s what we have to do, make sure families are taken care of so service members don’t have to worry about it,” said Carson.

Through a partnership with Coca-Cola, Subway’s Alaska team raised more than $78,000 in support of USO nationally, PUJS\KPUN YHPZLK ZWLJPÄ JHSS` MVY PU Z[H[L <:6 WYVNYHTZ HU LɈ VY[ [OH[ “went above and beyond” said Carrie Roberts of The Coca-Cola Company. She described Subway’s Alaska franchisees as “a Force Behind the Forces by helping USO keep service members connected to family, home and country.”

Wainwright or Eielson AFB, in Anchorage through our annual JBER partnerships, or in Kodiak supporting the Coast Guard, Subway Restaurants are there, supporting our troops and giving back to our military,” said Dee Buchanon, Alaska Statewide Marketing Director for Subway Development Inc. Having been on the receiving end, Elbell said Carson’s JBER family is just one example of what it’s all about.

“You always hope that what you’re doing is hitting home somewhere,” he said.

For more about the USO, contact Patti Carson, Operations and program manager, USO Alaska Chapter Phone: 907-385-9140 Email: pcarson@uso.org

“Whether it is with the military at Fort

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Waiting to freeze…time to reflect

By Paul D. Atkins

The caribou were but small specks in the distance, tiny white spots against a burnt orange and brown landscape.

There was no cover to speak of and the hike over would take us through a land mine of deep tussocks and shallow pools.

The temperature was well below freezing and the north wind was crisp, bending Spruce, and biting through thick layers of clothes. I dreaded the hike, but hoped the ground would be frozen and the two-mile stalk would be easy on my knees.

But all things come to those that are patient, so we decided to wait.

September is long gone now. Moose season is over and most of the caribou have moved south to their winter range. ;OL [YPWZ HJYVZZ [OL IPN SHRL HYL Ä UPZOLK and the old duck blind lay vacant until next season. The rabbits and Snowshoe OHYL HYL JHTV\Å HNPUN [OLTZLS]LZ PU white, while ptarmigan, multi-colored by now, dance in the willows waiting on the snow to fall. It truly is a time of change.

(Z ^PU[LY ILNPUZ HUK [OL Ä YZ[ ZPNUZ VM ^PU[LY HYYP]L [OL ZUV^ZOVL OHYL HUK W[HYTPNHU ^PSS ILNPU [OLPY JOHUNL ;OLPY Z\TTLY JVSVYZ ^PSS [\YU [V ZUV^ ^OP[L THRPUN [OLT H IP[ OHYKLY [V ZLL PU [OL ZUV^

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,HYS` 5V]LTILY PZ H KPɉ J\S[ [PTL here in the Arctic, especially for the outdoorsman. Much like purgatory, the “hurry up and wait” mentality will almost drive you insane. The ocean is cold, but not frozen yet. Rivers are icing up along the edges and the small tributaries are layered in white crystal. Boats are being stored while snow machines lay in wait, Ä SSPUN `HYKZ HUK NHYHNLZ HJYVZZ 5VY[OLYU Alaska.

It’s a time of bored anticipation.

It’s also a tough time for me personally as a hunter. In the 20 plus years I’ve lived here I still cannot get used to this time of year. Most of my friends who live down South are just beginning their hunting seasons with many still in waiting. I watch online at their exploits with jealous congratulations, praying for their success and seeing their failures. All make me want to be there with them.

But even though I’d like to be, I wouldn’t trade places with them, I love the Arctic and what it’ll bring.

Hunting season here in the Arctic is short to say the least. Late August, September and some of October is pretty much it. when November rolls around you better have your freezer full and raingear stored.

November is the month that’s hard to get use to. You really have nothing to do but go to work and then back home again.

Caribou are only a memory now, but they were a blessing this year. We only took one, but it was a grand experience seeing them once again and fun traveling up an old familiar river.

I can still picture the wall of willows, yellow in color stretching on forever just short of the sand and rock that covered the bare bank. Green grass could be seen in a few places and the six moose cows we seen, were devouring it as fast as they could.

Timing is everything come fall, especially when you see four big bulls staring at you from across the water. They didn’t seem too concerned, they looked more tired than anything else. I remember watching my son Eli frantically digging his binoculars out of his pack hoping to see what a big caribou looked like up close.

He needn’t hurry, as one after another they bedded down in the sand directly across from us.

We sat and watched trying to eat lunch, but with the thought of four big bulls laying there on the bank was just too much. We made a plan and decided to pull [OL HUJOVY HUK Å VH[ KV^U

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river polling the boat to the other side. It didn’t work of course, but what a thrill seeing the big bulls along the river once again. I’m guessing now they’re far south, out of the cold Arctic, preparing for their own winter.

We did connect on the ride home though. ;OVZL [PU` ZWLJRZ PU [OL KPZ[HUJL OHK Ä UHSS` made their way to the river. As we rounded a bend, there they were. Over the steady purr of the outboard motor I could hear my buddy 3L^ ZOV\[ ¸*HYPIV\¹ 0 NYHIILK T` YPÅ L jumped out and waited for the largest bull to turn broadside and alone. He did, falling where he stood. I don’t know who was excited more, Lew, me or Eli. What a great feeling.

Photo courtesy of Lew Pagel

>P[O [OL LHYS` JVSK [OPUNZ ^LYL H IP[ JOPSS` H[ [PTLZ +\JR O\U[PUN ZLLTLK [V JVTL X\PJR HUK MHZ[ HUK LHJO [PTL ^L OLHKLK [V V\Y MH]VYP[L ZSL^ PJL ZLLTLK [V IL TV]PUN PU X\PJRLY HUK X\PJRLY

Time has passed since then and luckily our freezer is a little more crowded today. That’s always a good thing, especially come December and January when we’ll really appreciate it. There’s room for more, but it’ll have to wait until the slush turns to solid ice and the snow grows in height.

It’s amazing how a short couple of months can change everything. Long bright warm days turning to cold and rain, and eventually ice and snow. But like all great things and all great seasons, they never last long enough. The ducks are all gone as are are the seagulls. All that’s left is our friend the raven and snow-covered mountains.

Oh, the memories of fall in Northern Alaska. You never know how fast or how long it will last. You just cherish it and move on waiting for your next chance. Now all I can think about is ice and snow—please hurry up and freeze!

Paul Atkins is an outdoor writer and author from Kotzebue, Alaska. He has written hundreds of articles on big game O\U[PUN HUK Ä ZOPUN [OYV\NOV\[ (SHZRH HZ ^LSS HZ Z\Y]P]PUN in the Arctic.

4VVZL HUK JHYPIV\ JHTWZ JHU IL KV^UYPNO[ JVSK PU 6J[VILY HUK WYL[[` T\JO ZVSPK PJL PU 5V]LTILY :THSS Z[YLHTZ HUK ZOHSSV^ YP]LYZ HYL \Z\HSS` [OL Ä YZ[ [V NV

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Maple & Whiskey Glazed Bacon Jam Recipe and Photo by Susie Jenkins-Brito

It has taken me a few years to get on the Bacon Jam bandwagon. I just wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seeing the value in the extra glazing and cooking when bacon is in and of itself pretty darn great already.

But boy am I sorry.

Maple & Whiskey Glazed Bacon Jam (yield approximately 3 cups) Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need: à¡&#x203A; SIZ IHJVU JOVWWLK PU[V PUJO pieces à¡&#x203A; SHYNL `LSSV^ VUPVU KPJLK

After having the most amazing salad on a trip to Anchorage I had to recreate the dish. I reviewed countless Bacon Jam YLJPWLZ Ã&#x201E;UKPUN HU VUZSH\NO[ VM VW[PVUZ· slow cooker, Dutch oven and skillet recipes; bourbon, rum or whiskey; onion or shallots; vinegars of all varieties.

à¡&#x203A; SHYNL JSV]LZ NHYSPJ TPUJLK à¡&#x203A; [LHZWVVU ZTVRLK WHWYPRH à¡&#x203A; [LHZWVVU JH`LUUL WLWWLY à¡&#x203A; [LHZWVVUZ MYLZO NPUNLY TPUJLK (optional) à¡&#x203A; J\W ^OPZRL`

:V 0 KLJPKLK [V J\SS [OL Ã&#x2026;H]VYZ 0 MHUJ` and create a jam of my own making. The result was a maple and whiskey glazed savory salty jam that basically is good on everything. We have had it gloriously lighting up sharp cheddar grilled cheese sandwiches, warmed on charcuterie platters, topping thick cheeseburgers dripping with Asiago and on a spoon straight from the jar.

Make this jam and you will not be sorry. If you are in a sharing mood it would make a very nice gift with a loaf of crusty bread and a hunk of tangy cheese.

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à¡&#x203A; J\W .YHKL ) THWSL Z`Y\W à¡&#x203A; J\W HWWSL JPKLY ]PULNHY à¡&#x203A; J\W SPNO[ VY KHYR IYV^U Z\NHY à¡&#x203A; [LHZWVVU Z[VUL NYV\UK +PQVU mustard To make: In an enameled or well-seasoned Dutch oven, over medium high heat, work in small batches to brown the chopped IHJVU Z[YHPUPUN VÉ&#x2C6; [OL NYLHZL LHJO [PTL Once all browned, set aside on paper [V^LSZ [V KYPW VÉ&#x2C6; HU` L_JLZZ VPS

0U [OL ZHTL WHU \ZPUN VUS` H ZRPÉ&#x2C6; VM the bacon grease to prevent sticking, slowly caramelize the onions on medium low heat. This will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Add in the garlic, paprika, cayenne, and ginger if you chose to use it. My husband prefers the jam without, I like it with the ginger. Cook the garlic and spice edition for one minute then carefully pour in the whiskey and maple syrup scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to take up any browned bits that may have stuck. Bring the contents to a boil then reduce to medium low heat once more.

Return the bacon to the pan along with the vinegar, sugar, and mustard. Simmer, stirring often, until all the excess liquid JVVRZ VÉ&#x2C6; HUK [OL QHT NHPUZ H [OPJR THYTHSHKL [`WL JVUZPZ[LUJ` ;\YU VÉ&#x2C6; [OL heat and scoop the jam into clean glass jars with lids, refrigerate at least one hour before use and up to 1 month.

This jam is best served warm. But cooled on crackers with a bit of cheese and sauerkraut is mighty yummy too!

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New trends for 2020

Tourism shows strong growth for 2019 As the 2019 travel season comes to an end, its’ a good time to look back and forward to the coming year.

Each fall the Alaska Travel Industry Association gathers for its annual meeting and celebration of Alaska tourism, this year meeting in Juneau.

be more popular. It can also become a larger employment opportunity in rural communities willing to welcome and connect with visitors.

There’s lots more about how Tourism Works for Alaska at www.TourismWorksForAk.org.

Beyond another record year in 2019, with more than 2.25 million travelers coming to Alaska, and spending more than $2.2 billion, the convention discussion centered on new trends and opportunities for the future.

Here’s some of what the experts are predicting for 2020’s travel season in Alaska. ·

Tourism will remain one of Alaska’s largest employers. More than 52,000 Alaskans, or one in ten, worked in tourism in 2019.

·

The majority of visitors will continue to arrive in Alaska by cruise ship, again more than 1.3 million in 2019, but there’s a new surge in independent travelers arriving and traveling by air and auto or RV.

·

Adventure tourism is the new international trend and has unlimited potential in Alaska. Adventure tourists look for adventures by hiking, kayaking HUK Å`PUN PU[V YLTV[L HYLHZ VɈ [OL grid and away from traditional tourist destinations.

·

Investments in improving infrastructure

by Federal and state agencies, from improved roads to better river access, will pay big dividends throughout the industry.

·

Cultural tourism, providing visitors the chance to experience and learn Alaska Native culture, history and lifestyles, is both important and going to continue

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Toponymic treasures

The passion of Gregory Weissenberg

By Clark Fair

At one time or another, the entire family of Gregory Weissenberg has been subjected [V OPZ WHZZPVU MVY 9\ZZPHU PUÅ\LUJLK names in Alaska. Unfortunately for Weissenberg, his family members haven’t always equaled his excitement for his discoveries.

Many years ago, while acting as a taxi driver for his son Anton—an elementary school student giddy about spending the weekend with a friend down a road near Soldotna—Weissenberg had one of those “excitable” moments. Anton sat in the passenger seat, clutching his overnight bag, grinning as he contemplated the fun ahead, and blissfully ignorant of the lesson he was about to receive.

At some point, they passed a nondescript side road labeled by a green, dustcovered sign announcing “Nerka Court.”

Anton didn’t notice—and probably wouldn’t have cared if he had—but Weissenberg got his son’s attention by slamming on the brakes. Anton was jarred forward into his shoulder harness.

“Nerka,” his father said aloud, pointing to the sign. “Look!”

Weissenberg discovered (on Alaskan maps) names derived from Russian culture, Russian religion, Russian flora and fauna. on Alaska’s vast and varied terrain—from Alaska Natives to European fur traders, from explorers to missionaries to goldseekers, and many more.

For nearly 20 years now, one particularly enthusiastic connoisseur of these names has been Weissenberg, a former high school teacher who moved to Alaska from Russia in 1991 to teach for the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District. A phrase that arises frequently in conversation with Weissenberg is “hidden in plain sight”—indicative of his surprise and delight when he noticed, after emigrating, that Russian colonization and exploration, although 150 years in the

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But it wasn’t just the names of famous explorers and pioneers that drew his eyes to the maps of his new home. Beyond familiar references to Bering and Baranov, to Steller and Shelikof, Weissenberg discovered names derived from Russian J\S[\YL 9\ZZPHU YLSPNPVU 9\ZZPHU ÅVYH and fauna.

“The thing is,” he told the Redoubt Reporter newspaper in 2010, “quite a few words (on the maps), although spelled in English, were distinctly, conspicuously Russian. I kind of had this thought: ‘Do my American friends know what these words mean?’”

So Weissenberg embarked on a quest to learn more and to share his knowledge— with his students, with the general public and with his American friends.

Nerka is the Russian word for sockeye salmon. Weissenberg had stumbled upon yet another name for his collection.

Anton’s fun weekend would have to wait a few minutes while his father explained how cool this was. Considering that Weissenberg’s eagerness for a closer SVVR OHK JH\ZLK [OLT [V ULHYS` ZRPK VɈ the road, his son was lucky that the sign wasn’t for Nerka Lake in Wood-Tikchik State Park.

The names on a map of Alaska comprise a portal into its history, a window to myriad multicultural connections of the people who have explored in and lived

rear-view mirror of history, was still writ large on the Alaska atlas.

.YLNVY` >LPZZLUILYN

He has been at it now, unearthing toponymic treasures, for nearly two decades—enlightening the students in his history and Russian language classes, delivering PowerPoint lectures to intrigued historical society and visitor center crowds, and writing short pieces VU ÄUKPUNZ [OH[ WHY[PJ\SHYS` LUJOHU[ OPT Currently, he and a former colleague are creating a year-long public-radio series on Russian toponymy, telling the stories behind some of the hundreds of 9\ZZPHU PUÅ\LUJLK UHTLZ ZJH[[LYLK MYVT Southeast Alaska to the easternmost Aleutians, and many places beyond.

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;OL 7H]SVM =VSJHUV UHTLK MVY :[ 7H\S Z[LHTZ PU Photo by Chris Waythomas for the Alaska Volcano Observatory and the U.S. Geological Survey

Hidden in plain sight Former educator Gregory Weissenberg has enjoyed tying Alaska place names to some of the big personalities that PUÅ\LUJLK 9\ZZPHU L_WSVYH[PVU HUK control of Alaska between the 1741 Vitus Bering expedition and the 1867 sale of Alaska to the United States, but he takes ZWLJPHS WSLHZ\YL PU [OL VɈ ILH[ Z[VYPLZ VY the unexpected connections he unearths.

For instance, by Kachemak Bay there’s Point Pogibshi, site of several tragic boating accidents—and with a name meaning “deceased,” who should be surprised?

Then there’s Attu, westernmost of the Aleutian Islands. Although the name Attu comes from the Alutiiq language, a close-up view of the map of Attu reveals a coastline dotted with Russian names, such as Nevidskov, Khlebnikof, Mikhail, Alexai and Hodikof. However, it was the English name of a bay on the southeastern side of the island that most intrigued Weissenberg and drew him unexpectedly into Russian history.

The inlet, known as Massacre Bay, was a landing site for American troops in 1943 as they attempted to retake Attu from Japanese forces that had captured the island the year before. It turns out that Russian fur traders had landed there

almost 200 years earlier and, for reasons that are unclear, slaughtered 15 Aleuts, thus prompting a later Russian explorer to call the place Gavan Ubiennaya, meaning “Bay of the Massacred.”

Five of Alaska’s 10 most active volcanoes have names with Russian origins: Veniaminof honors Saint Innocent II, the former Father Veniaminov, arguably the TVZ[ PTWVY[HU[ VɉJPHS PU [OL OPZ[VY` VM the Russian Orthodox Church in Alaska.

Pavlof is the Russian version of Paul, as in Saint Paul. Makushin comes from makushka, meaning “top” or “crown of the head.” Bogoslof is a Russian name meaning “theologian,” given because the ]VSJHUV ÄYZ[ YVZL MYVT [OL ZLH VU 4H` 18, 1796, St. John’s Day. And Gareloi comes from a Russian word meaning, appropriately, “burnt” or “burning.”

In Western Alaska there’s Kotzebue, named for a Baltic German named Otto ]VU 2V[aLI\L ^OV ILJHTL HU VɉJLY and explorer for the Imperial Russian Navy in the early 1800s. In Southeast Alaska, near Sitka, there’s Nevski Island, for the famous Russian warship, the 5L]H VUL VM [OL ÄYZ[ [^V 9\ZZPHU ]LZZLSZ to circumnavigate the globe, and also used in 1804 to recapture the town of Sitka and Fort St. Archangel Mikhail from Tlingit Indians who had captured it from the Russians two years earlier.

Image from the Library of Congress, digital file CPH 3C32144

:HPU[ 0UUVJLU[ JHUVUPaLK I` [OL 9\ZZPHU 6Y[OVKV_ *O\YJO HUK HZ -H[OLY =LUPHTPUV] VUL VM [OL TVZ[ PTWVY[HU[ ÄN\YLZ PU [OL OPZ[VY` VM [OL JO\YJO PU (SHZRH ;OL =LUPHTPUVM =VSJHUV ^HZ UHTLK MVY OPT

And on Unalaska Island, there’s Cape Kovrizhka, which Weissenberg initially thought was a reference to kovrizhka, a Russian honey cake. After further investigation, though, he learned that kovrizhka can also refer to a particular sliced Russian rye bread. And the cape did resemble its namesake.

Clearly, much of Alaska’s geography has H KPZ[PUJ[S` 9\ZZPHU ÅH]VY

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·· JUST FOR KIDS ··

Winter Solstice

Celebrate the light!

Words and photos by Erin Kirkland

Alaska families know a lot about winter’s short days and long nights, especially as the calendar creeps closer to winter solstice, usually on December 21 each year. The day solstice occurs is the same across the globe, but depending upon one’s location, it can be lighter or darker than other places, even here in Alaska. In the southeastern panhandle region of the state, winter solstice brings a whopping six hours and 22 minutes of daylight; but in the Arctic community of Utqiagvik (formerly Barrow), the sun won’t rise at all after November 18, plunging the region into a dusky darkness for more than 60 days. Meanwhile, in Anchorage, residents enjoy about 5.5 hours of daylight on December 21.

It all has to do with tilt. Our planet, Earth, is tilted at 23.5 degrees, and this means during the winter months, our area, the

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northern hemisphere, is tilted away from the sun. The shorter, colder days of winter arrive slowly starting in August, when daylight decreases by a minute or two.

But come November and December, the sun rises later and sets earlier by up to six minutes a day. By the time winter solstice arrives on December 21, Alaskans are ready to celebrate even the smallest increase in daylight.

Like many days we celebrate, winter solstice is rooted in ancient traditions, fused over the years with modern twists to make it the holidays we know today.

Most northern cultures incorporate some form of light into their solstice JLSLIYH[PVUZ! JHUKSLZ IVUÄ YLZ VY lantern walks all bring a bit of cheer to an otherwise dark night. Some people even believe solstice brings magic, and at some places, like Stonehenge in England,

winter solstice revelers gather at dawn the day before solstice and celebrate the return of the sun’s rays lining up with the mysterious stones.

How can you and your family celebrate winter solstice? Here in Alaska, there are many ways to say “Welcome back!” to the sun. ࠮ Make a simple luminaria from paper bags with a scoop of sand lining the bottom, and a tea light or candle in the sand. Cut out shapes in the paper IHNZ MVY H ILH\[PM\S LɈ LJ[ HUK SPUL [OL bags along your yard or driveway. ࠮ )\PSK H IHJR`HYK IVUÄ YL, and light up the night. Roast marshmallows and serve hot cocoa while you watch for aurora borealis in the northeastern sky. Make sure you have an adult HSVUN [V OLSW ^P[O I\PSKPUN H ZHML Ä YL

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·· JUST FOR KIDS ··

Get aurora alerts right to your phone with the AuroraAlerts app, covering the entire northern hemisphere: www. aurora-alerts.com ࠮ Feed our animal friends. By the time winter solstice comes around, bears will have gone into hibernation, so take advantage of their slumber to make simple bird feeders from pinecones coated with peanut butter or suet, and rolled in birdseed. Or, string cranberries and popcorn with a large needle and sturdy thread and decorate bushes and branches for the songbirds wintering over in Alaska.

Find other ideas for feeding wild birds here: www.familyhandyman.com/ garden-structures/14-easy-diy-winterbird-feeders ࠮ Attend or host a winter solstice event. Check with your local community center or school, or host your own party with soup, bread, and hot drinks served al fresco in the great Alaska outdoors.

In Fairbanks, Creamer’s Field 4PNYH[VY` )PYK 9LM\NL PZ VɈ LYPUN a holiday ornament workshop and winter solstice walk. Check their website for more information: www.

MYPLUKZVMJYLHTLYZÄ LSK VYN ZJOLK\SL Erin Kirkland is an Alaska author and publisher of AkOnTheGo.com for Alaska families.

Good Read

The Return of the Light: Twelve Tales From Around the World For Winter Solstice

by Carolyn McVickar Edwards A great companion book to any winter solstice activity, The Return of the Light YL[LSSZ [^LS]L [YHKP[PVUHS Z[VYPLZ MYVT KPɈ LYLU[ WHY[Z VM [OL ^VYSK SPRL *OPUH Scandinavia, North America, Africa, India, and more. Reinforcing that birth and rebirth are beautiful miracles to be celebrated, The Return of the Light helps kids understand the transitions of seasons, and how humans can and do celebrate [OL ZOPM[PUN VM [PTL [OYV\NO [YHKP[PVUZ )LZ[ MVY HNLZ Ä ]L HUK \W

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Above cold country

By P.M. Fadden

The State of Alaska is a wild frontier with vistas capable of lingering a lifetime.

Its panoramas are its biggest draw and catalyst for the visitor’s foremost question—how does one wrap the eye around something so enormous?

Flightseeing is the answer. Across the state, and all year-round, small planes or helicopters open a bird’s eye windows on immeasurable geography.

When seen from above, one stunning rock feature spools to miles of jagged coastline, H ZPUNSL ZLYYH[LK PJL ÄUNLY Z[YL[JOLZ H[ [OL end of a glacial arm and a tall wall of trees grows into a rainforest carpet.

Extending into even winter months, [OL ÅPNO[ZLLPUN VW[PVUZ HYL HSTVZ[ HZ KP]LYZL HZ [OL ZPNO[Z HZ L_LTWSPÄLK I` H late autumn tour above Alaska’s mighty Chugach National Forest.

This time of year, sunlight slips between frosted boughs with the sleepy stillness of melting frost.

The accompanying silence adds

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soft counterpoint to the thrill of aerial exploration.

Hanger life begins early, so preparations HYL THYRLK I` W\ɈZ VM MYVaLU IYLH[O Across a sleek tarmac, Glacier Creek rushes cold. Whirring directly ahead is a wing-less steed. Its rotors turn L_WLJ[HU[S` ^OPSL ÄUHS JOLJRZ HYL THKL A Robinson Helicopter model R400 ably carries pilot and passengers but minimal baggage. Pack a camera, and sense of adventure, the R400 will do the rest.

Sitting ‘stick’ will be an ambassador to the surrounding environment.

3PM[VɈ PZ H Y\ZO VM L]LY PUJYLHZPUN WV^LY A pair of nearby mountain goats sense it too. The shaggy animals lope across a pitch as helicopter rises. In every direction, sky, water, ice and soil spread as a tapestry.

Masses of ice rise to either side of the ÅPNO[ WH[O (U PULY[ ^H[LYMHSS MYVaLU virtually year-round, reaches from within a nearby gorge.

Inner Lake George is ahead. It fans into view thanks the helicopter’s wide, banking turn. *SPɈZ VM *VSVU` .SHJPLY ZSHZO \WYPNO[ then stretch languidly. Its jutting bulk waits with blade formations like blue[PWWLK ÄUZ VM H WYLKH[VY I\[ [OL HɈLJ[ PZ unthreatening.

Flightseeing pilots know the ranges they Å` SPRL ML^ V[OLYZ L]LY JV\SK HUK ZHML[` PZ primary on any aerial tour.

6UL ]PZ\HS [YLH[ VM H ÅPNO[ZLLPUN experience is a gift of true perspective.

Human presence in this Great Land is on par with dust upon stone or in this instance, ice.

Weather dependent, landings come part-and-parcel with tour programming.

And a glacier tongue terminating with a jagged wall, or cloud-ringed mountains stretching over a razor-tooth stage just might be the reward. Aerial adventure over big AK makes memory to last a lifetime.

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IF YOU GO: Example of Providers Regionally Central: à ® +LUHSP (PY -SPNO[ZLLPUN ;V\YZ à ® ;HSRLL[UH (PY ;H_P Southcentral: à ® (UJOVYHNL /LSPJVW[LY ;V\YZ à ® 9\Z[»Z -S`PUN :LY]PJL à ® (SWPUL (PY (SHZRH à ® :L^HYK /LSPJVW[LY ;V\YZ Southern: à ® ;LTZJV /LSPJVW[LYZ 0UJ _ SVJH[PVUZ à ® *VHZ[HS /LSPJVW[LYZ à ® (SHZRH :OVYL ,_J\YZPVUZ Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Who Over Winter (*services, especially glacial lands, are weather dependent) Alpine Air Alaska, Girdwood: www.alpineairalaska.com (907) 783-2360 Talkeetna Air Taxi, Talkeetna www.talkeetnaair.com (907) 7332218 Natron Air, Soldotna www.natronair.com (907) 2628440 Seward Helicopter Tour, Seward www.sewardhelicopters.com (907) 3624354 *Dogsledding-centric by winter. Flights available by charter.

Sample of Programs Past November à ® Alpine Air Alaska: 30min or 60min Ã&#x2026;PNO[ZLL ^P[O NSHJPHS SHUKPUN 7YPUJL William Sound Tour à ® Talkeetna Air Taxi: Winter Explorer Tour explores Alaska Rangeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s south facets. 2 person minimum. Begins Oct.1 à ® Natron Air: Harding Ice Field or Glacial Volcano Flightsee tours à ® Seward Helicopter Tour: year-round H]HPSHIPSP[` MVY [HPSVYLK JOHY[LY Ã&#x2026;PNO[ZLL tours *owned by Iditarod mushers, winter programs are dogsled-centric but ^LSJVTL Ã&#x2026;PNO[ IVVRPUNZ

Photos by P.M. Fadden, Taylor Hutchins

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Sledge Island Adventure

Ham radio connects the world to Alaska Words and photos by Mike Crownover

It was 5:30 am in the Anchorage airport HUK 0 OHK Q\Z[ IVHYKLK [OL Ă&#x2026;PNO[ [V 5VTL 0 ^HZ [Y`PUN [V ZOHRL VÉ&#x2C6; [OL K\SSULZZ `V\ NL[ MYVT HU \UĂ&#x201E;UPZOLK UPNO[ÂťZ ZSLLW 6U board I tried hard to regain some lost ZSLLW I\[ OHSM^H` [OYV\NO T` Ă&#x201E;YZ[ J\W VM JVÉ&#x2C6;LL +LUHSP ZSPK WHZ[ T` ^PUKV^ PU a still dim-lit morning sky. Seeing this THQLZ[PJ TV\U[HPU JVUĂ&#x201E;YTLK 0 ^HZ PU Alaska, somewhere decidedly unique.

The excitement of my upcoming Amateur Radio Expedition to Sledge Island began to set in.

Sledge Island was named on August 5, 1778 by Captain Cook, when he landed on the island and a sledge was found there.

The island has had residents in the past, but none since 1890.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been an Amateur Radio Operator for over 30 years. Sometimes called

Hams, we are licensed by the Federal Government, after taking qualifying exams. The government assigns us callsigns and mine is AD5A. While Radio Amateurs may be known more for their work in emergency communications, there is an adventure side of the hobby and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what I enjoy most. My favorite mode is Morse code, which is still practiced by thousands of hams worldwide.

There is an award program for Radio Amateurs called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Islands on the Airâ&#x20AC;?

(IOTA). The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s saltwater islands have been divided into 1200 groups and the objective is to make a contact with as many of these groups as you can. However, many of the groups have no radio operators. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where the adventure comes in. I go to these remote, distant places and set up my radio to

make contacts with other Ham island chasers. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been all over the world activating islands, from Australia to Labrador to Nicaragua.

Planning the Sledge Island Expedition OHK Z[HY[LK Ă&#x201E;]L TVU[OZ LHYSPLY 6\Y team of four members including myself and three other IOTA veterans, who had arrived a couple of days early gathering the prearranged camping gear, generators and buying the food that would be needed on the island.

Equipment was loaded on the boat in preparation to depart on August 27th, the day of my arrival. However, bad weather forced our charter vessel to delay our departure. Our captain simply said he would decide if we could go the next day once he understood the weather. That was not welcome news.

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The next day the Captain was prepared to attempt a landing. In his words the conditions were â&#x20AC;&#x153;marginal, but doableâ&#x20AC;?. At noon, the Golovin Bay pulled out of the harbor and the trip to Sledge Island began. The seas were a bit rough at the start of the journey however by the time we arrived at the island at 4:00 pm the seas were relatively JHST ;OL [LHT HUK LX\PWTLU[ ^LYL VÉ&#x160;VHKLK [V [OL PZSHUK [V H Ă&#x2026;H[ ZWP[ VM SHUK VU [OL UVY[O ZPKL VM [OL PZSHUK ^P[O H ZRPÉ&#x2C6; (M[LY \USVHKPUN [OL LX\PWTLU[ [OL .VSV]PU Bay and her crew bid us farewell.

The expedition team, using a special callsign, KL7RRC, worked hard to get antennas erected and the stations ready. Sledge Island had a population of fourâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;us. >P[O V\Y JHTW LZ[HISPZOLK Ă&#x201E;UHSS` [OL Ă&#x201E;YZ[ JHSS ^LU[ out in Morse code on 14.040 MHz and was immediately answered by JA8RJE, a station in Japan. The KL7RRC operation from Sledge Island had begun. The ham radio community was waiting on us and radio conditions were L_JLSSLU[ +\YPUN [OL Ă&#x201E;YZ[ TPU\[LZ VM ILPUN VU [OL HPY stations from Asia, Europe and the US were logged with SV\K ZPNUHSZ +\YPUN [OL Ă&#x201E;YZ[ OV\YZ ^L SVNNLK stations and at hour 48 the count was up to 3,284. Given that our preliminary discussions had hoped for 2,000 contacts we were ecstatic.

The weather ranged from lower 40â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at night to mid-50â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s during the day. Usually cloudy and always windy.

The trip wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t completely about radio. During some operating lulls, the team took the opportunity to explore the island. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m also a birder, so I took a hike to the top of the island, a climb of 700 vertical feet. I was able to photograph a few birds and saw three that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d never seen continued on page 46

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RavnAir Group

Route Map

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Our Fleet

The number of passengers may vary based on length of flight, amount of luggage, and flight operations. Aircraft specifications listed are actual. Maximum payloads and size of shipment may be reduced due to weather, distance, size, and weight of the shipment.

DeHavilland DHC-8-100 Max passengers: 29 - 37 Max payload: 8,100 pounds

Saab 2000 Max passengers: 45 Max payload: 12,120 pounds

Beechcraft B1900C Max passengers: 19 Max payload: 3,800 pounds Max cargo length: 14 feet

Max cargo width: 54 inches Max cargo height: 57 inches

B1900 Cargo Max passengers: N/A Max payload: 5,000 pounds Max cargo length: 25 feet

Max cargo width: 54 inches Max cargo height: 57 inches

Piper PA31 Chieftain Max passengers: 7 Max payload: 1,500 pounds Max cargo length: 8.5 feet

Max cargo width: 40.5 inches Max cargo height: 41.5 inches

Cessna C208 Caravan Max passengers: 9 Max payload: 2,200 pounds Max cargo length: 14 feet

Max cargo width: 60 inches Max cargo height: 54 inches

Cessna C207 Skywagon Max passengers: 5 Max payload: 900 pounds Max cargo length: 8 feet

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Max cargo width: 39 inches Max cargo height: 39 inches

November / December 2019

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RavnAir Alaska

Puzzle page (Answers on page 46)

Across 1 Depositors’ protective grp.

5 Fruitcake 10 Jane Austen matchmaker 14 Bind 15 Uma Thurman’s ex --- Hawke 16 Give temporarily 17 Arabian chieftain 18 Lightweight cord 19 Breathtaking organ 20 Against 21 Large bundle 22 Lamp scamp?

23 Bit of broken pottery 25 To do with mail 26 Strainer 29 Whisky distiller --- Walker 31 Appears ominously 32 --- Chanel © 2016 Crosswordsite.com Ltd.

33 Actor and rapper Mike --37 Wheat flour in India 38 For example, brogues 39 Harvest 40 Hits lightly 41 High-efficiency lights, briefly 42 Enigmatic quotemaker Yogi --43 Corpse

Down 1 Type of market

30 Summer refreshments

2 What Rhett didn’t give

32 Top cook

3 Brenda Lee’s “--- True?”

34 Cheeky

4 Yuletide

35 Shave

5 Home beverage center

36 Health farms

45 Luxury accommodations

6 Fighting an enemy

38 Thin potter’s clay

46 Dozing

7 Old acquaintance

42 Top and bottom of a hamburger

49 Wet season

8 His last word was “Rosebud”

44 Senator --- Cruz

51 Place

9 Unity

45 Noiseless

52 Work the land

10 Large landmass north of the Canadian mainland

46 Colorado resort

53 Records 57 Cookware

11 Launch

48 Dismiss

58 Military blockade

12 Passion

50 Pond problem

59 “... sting like ---” (Ali)

13 Theatrical backer

52 S N L comic --- Fey

60 Therefore

22 Smallest Indian state

54 Double-reed woodwind instrument

61 Kofi ---

24 “--- So Fine” (old Chiffons number)

55 Obtains

62 Brief message

25 Advantages

56 Search

63 Red light gas

26 Fuss

58 Cold War U S A F arm

64 Office in training

27 Scintilla

65 Writing table

28 Former Mississippi senator Trent ---

47 Stockpile

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THE MAGAZI

NE OF RAVNAI

R GROUP AND

Alaskan Spirit Magazine

JULY 2019

RURAL ALASKA

BEST DAYS! Summer Exploring Alaska

A KENAI PENINSUL ound Alaska’s Playgr

CAINES HEADHistoric Treasure Seward’s Hidden

KANS CREATIVE ALAS Creators

Telling the stories of rural Alaska and the communities we serve.

ers, Artists, Design

H I S T O R Y • A D V E N T U R E • C U LT U R E • P E O P L E

THE MAG

AZIN E

OF RAV

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UP AND

RUR AL

ALASKA

MARCH

2019

CAs MA-I EL’S the Age BEnceTH Through Da

DELTA YUKONthe Yup’ik Land of

S MADNES MARCH ketball fever Alaska

bas

THE MAGA

ZINE OF RAVN

AIR GROU

P AND RURA

L ALASK A

JANUARY

2019

There’s no place like

NOME WINTER IS RACE SEA SON

Iditarod Iron Dog Yukon Ques t

GOT ICE?

Valdez Ice

Fest

Alaskan Spirit is the one magazine on RavnAir and PenAir flights throughout Alaska, connecting the 120 communities we serve daily.

And online 24/7 at www.FlyRavn.com.

THE MAGA

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CULTUR OUR ARTE IN

Native Art and Ar

tists

ALASKA FE DERATION OF NATIVE S 20 19 Fairban ks Conven tion

SEASON OF

GATHER Hunting an d Subsistenc ING e

ANCHORAG E

We can connect you with these communities and the 800,000 passengers who fly with us each year.

Living The Big

Wild Life

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Lee Leschper | 907-957-6025 Lee.Leschper@FireweedStrategies.com

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ALASKAN SPIRIT

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Ham radio continued from page 35 before. I also photographed some of the ILH\[PM\S ÅVYH HUK MH\UH WYLZLU[ VU [OL island.

Our expedition was scheduled to end on Monday. But 6 pm on Saturday afternoon, the Golovin Bay could be seen on the horizon. When the Captain left us, the agreement was that we would rely on

The Sledge Island team made 3,611 JVU[HJ[Z ^P[O KPɈLYLU[ JV\U[YPLZ ^P[O Europe accounting for 54.2 percent, Asia 27 percent and North America 18 percent. Of the contacts, 82 percent were in Morse Code. We had succeeded in our mission and added Sledge Island to the contacted list for many island chasers in Amateur Radio community.

his judgment on when to pick us up. The forecast for Sunday was for 6-7 ft seas and wind gusts to 30 mph, so he felt it best to get us on Saturday.

So reluctantly we began disassembling the stations and the camp. The last contact was made at 6:48 pm. The Sledge Island Expedition was now history. We felt fortunate to have experienced such good JVUKP[PVUZ HUK ^L ^LYL ]LY` ZH[PZÄLK ^P[O the results of our Alaskan adventure.

Learn more about Amateur Radio worldwide and the Islands On The Air Program at www.iota-world.org.

Mike Crownover is a retired oil industry executive. “My passion for Amateur Radio, combined with my passion for the outdoors makes island radio expeditions the perfect adventure. Licensed for 30 years, I have done over 20 island expeditions including four in Alaska.”

Puzzle Page Solution (to puzzle on page 43)

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It’s about the people

Reflecting on 35 years of service 2004 and 2005 in Iraq. There were 133 VM \Z KLWSV`LK MYVT 2LUHP [OL Ä YZ[ deployed from Alaska since World War II. 133 went over and 133 came back.”

Greg Fite has a lot of job titles—Cargo Supervisor, Ground Equipment Coordinator, Hazardous Material Trainer.

He’s been doing them for 35 years at the Kenai airport.

That service lead to his commitment to the local American Legion Post 20, where he’s been commander for the WHZ[ Ä ]L `LHYZ

What brought him to RavnAir in 1984 and has kept him here ever since?

“I actually meant for it to be a career. I Z[HY[LK ^P[O ,YH ;OL` VɈ LYLK YL[PYLTLU[ 401k, insurance and I was young and married and that sounded like a stable thing to me.

“I always wanted to come to Alaska.

When I was a kid, I dreamed of ^PSKLYULZZ O\U[PUN Ä ZOPUN HUK TV\U[HPU men. I was born and raised in Ohio. I came up when I was 18 to visit Mom, brought my girlfriend and we just stayed.

I still have that same girlfriend and we’ve been married for 38 years!”

He and his wife have two daughters, a son still at home and six grandchildren.

“I do cargo, shipping and receiving here.

And that includes shipping hazardous materials, so I also do haz mat training as well as cargo training including the cargo data management system we use.” ;OPZ Z\TTLY»Z O\NL MVYLZ[ Ä YLZ VU [OL Kenai Peninsula had a big impact on travel in and out of Kenai, he said.

“It had a big impact on the amount of passengers,” he said. “Flights were all full, because people were not driving. And [OLYL ^LYL SV[Z VM WLVWSL ZOPWWPUN Z[\Ɉ ¹ That reinforced the key role that RavnAir Å PNO[Z WYV]PKL Z[H[L^PKL VɈ LYPUN [OL VUS` real alternative to road travel.

In his daily role, he sees things that both passengers and cargo customers can remember to improve their experience.

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“Veterans deserve so much,” he said.

“My Dad was in the 82nd Airborne and my uncle in the 101st in World War II. He was one of the Band of Brothers.

“You really don’t appreciate life until you’ve almost died. The near-death experiences make you appreciate things better.”

“Remember we can’t guarantee anything.

We also send a lot of forgotten items— keys, purses, phones, you name it, that gets left at the counter.”

It was his expertise in handling cargo that lead to becoming a RavnAir trainer.

“My boss Kathy Roser volunteered me.

I’ve had 35 years of haz mat experience, ZV 0 Å ` HSS V]LY [OL Z[H[L [V V\Y KPɈ LYLU[ stations. Most people don’t realize that most haz mat items are household items, things like lithium batteries.”

What does he attribute to his long tenure in Kenai?

“Patience!”

Greg is also humble about his service in the military and Alaska National Guard. He served in the infantry and was eventually WYVTV[LK [V ZLYNLHU[ Ä YZ[ JSHZZ HUK ZH`Z it was the only interruption to his work history with RavnAir. “I joined the Guard in 1982 and retired in 2007, after 23 years. In between I spent

These days Greg has found a love of Z[LLS HUK Ä YL PU ISHJRZTP[OPUN /L JYHM[Z superb knives and tomahawks from a forge at his home.

“My favorite knife is the Bowie Knife, the most American knife out there. And tomahawks are the most American historical weapons I’ve ever seen. When I was a kid, I was also in black powder JS\IZ 0 Z[PSS OH]L H ISHJR WV^KLY YPÅ L ¹ .YLN YLÅ LJ[Z [OH[ OPZ QVI PZ UV[ HIV\[ cargo it’s about people and working with a great team of fellow employees that share the same values and customer satisfaction that he does.

“I just like dealing with people every KH` 0 KLHS ^P[O H I\UJO VM KPɈ LYLU[ kinds of people and they are all just my customers. I know most of my customers, and because I’ve been here a long time, they expect to see me when they come.

“That’s the good part of customer service—everybody knows your name!”

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