The People's Paper January 2023

Welcome to 2023! The MatSu Food Bank Staff, Volunteers and Board of Directors hopes everyone had a wonderful holiday season, and now we embark on a new year!

It’s that time of year again, wherein the MatSu Food Bank hosts their annual Hearts 4 Hunger Fundraiser.

This year our annual program is being held Friday, February 18th, 2023, at the Curtis D. Menard Sports Complex, Wasilla, Alaska. Festivities will start at 5:30pm with a Cash Bar and Appetizers, while guests peruse the Silent and Life Auction items.

Dinner will be a Prime Rib/Seafood Smorgasbord served at 6:30pm. This year we have a comedian booked for your entertainment, and then our

“It’s that time of year again, wherein the MatSu Food Bank hosts their annual Hearts 4 Hunger Fundraiser. This year our annual program is being held Friday, February 18th, 2023, at the Curtis D. Menard Sports Complex...”

Auctioneer,

Catering is being provided by Alaskan Events & Catering. This event is Co-Hosted by MatSu Food Bank in concert with the Anchorage Police & Fire Chaplains and Susitna Rotary! We are very blessed to have these nonprofits join us in our cause to battle food insecurity within our community.

For tickets to this annual event, contact the Food Bank Office at (907)357-3769. Each year businesses and individuals within our community and beyond, donate goods and services for your bidding pleasure and we are very thankful for all donations received, to support our fundraiser.

Should you wish to donate to our event, please contact the office or email us at staff@ matsufoodbank.org. Proceeds for this event will be going to the Food

Bank and Anchorage Police & Fire Chaplains, so that we will be able to continue serving our community.

We are truly grateful for all the resources available to help our wonderful community. Remember: No One should go hungry! Please take a minute to visit our webpage, www.matsufoodbank.org.

You can also follow us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/MatSuFoodBank

See the many ways you can contribute, by volunteering and making donations, help us help our community.

Please contact us at (907) 357-3769 to schedule time to volunteer, or for more information concerning donations... Or for other questions call United Way’s 211.

Thank you for all your continued support, we deeply appreciate our community!

Book Release: History of Sled Dogs MORE ON PAGE 16 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE

Alaska Junior Theater Season Tickets MORE ON PAGE 6 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE

Contributed by Lauralynn Robison MatSu Food Bank Board Member

Marty Metiva will take the stage at 8:00pm to commence the Auction activities.

COMMUNITY

Contributed by Paula Nance

The fresh scent of Alaskan air and people jumping into freezing water! Say goodbye to cabin fever, it’s getting wild in Wasilla, Alaska. It’s the event people love!

Mat Su Sertoma’s 13th Anniversary of the Original Valley Dip expects substantial numbers to join in the shenanigans! This year’s event is hosted by the Palmer Elks Lodge, on Saturday, February 18, 2023.

Participants from all over the world dress head to toe in colorful costumes to help raise money for hearing health and the local community.

Phil Batchelder, the president of the Mat-Su Sertoma Club, said that although the event requires a lot of preparation and challenging work, the outcome is always worth it. “The weather usually cooperates, and the community at large turns out to support our annual event. Alaskan’s never stand for the status quo, that’s why the local plunge has been so successful,” said Batchelder.

The event needs lots of volunteers and our sponsorships are second to no other. To jump at the event, each participant must raise a minimum of $100 while most jumpers look to score the Annual Biggest Fund Raiser Iceberg Award.

Sertoma has numerous scholarships available to local youth and young adults. Fund go to Mat Su Sertoma Summer Camp Scholarship Winners

and sends successful candidates on what has become a life changing adventure for previous winners.

Batchelder said “Life is short. So come on and join us! You’ve got to have a little fun! It’s something everyone should try at least once. So scratch this one off your bucket list and come have a blast.”

More info at matsuhearing.org

Contributed by Danielle Sherrer

Mark your calendars! We are hosting this spaghetti dinner to benefit the Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Community program on February 25th. Come join and help us support for this caring cause.

This event is put on every year by our friends & family from American Legion Post 35 in Wasilla. Dinner will be between 5pm-7pm and the auction will be 7pm-9pm.

Due to rapid growth, we have outgrown our previous venue. We are excited to announce a new location. This year our Spaghetti Dinner & Auction will be held at Mat-Su Career & Tech High School on 2472 N Seward Meridian Pkwy in Wasilla.

For the last 21 years this Spaghetti Dinner & Auction has been one of our most successful fundraisers.

All proceeds raised at this event goes right back into continuing our sports

training and programs for our 200+ Mat-Su athletes.

$10 general admission gets you dinner &/or access to our auctions. Dinner is only provided until 7pm! Includes Spaghetti dinner, salad, roll, & beverage. Auction is 7pm-9pm.

We have a unique $1 Main Auction!

REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR $1 BILLS! Silent & dessert auctions as well!

For tickets go to www.myalaskatix. com! We are in need of donations towards our auctions! If you would like to donate please call our Mat-Su Cell phone at 907-631-8591!

Special Olympics Alaska MatSu athletes are very well LOVED throughout our community. We appreciate all the donations & support we are given year after year. Without your support our programs would cease for our Mat-Su athletes.

Your contributions to our program, big or small, make an incredible difference to the lives of our athletes.

appreciate our Mat-Su Community supporters!

2023 Plunge is Saturday February 18. Watch our website for ways to sign up.

The Mat-Su Sertoma Club has partnered with Fyzical Therapy and Balance Center/HealthQuest Therapy to offer FREE Hearing Screening once a month in their Wasilla Office.

Through a Wasilla Rotary grant provided several years ago, Mat-Su Sertoma obtained a hearing sound booth. The booth has now found a permanent home at the therapy office.

Sertoman, Jean Stanefski, PT, GTS, and COHC; Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist, administers the screening with a calibrated audiometer that was obtained through a grant from Mat-Su Health Foundation.

Shain ZumBrunnen, OT, CHT, owner of Fyzical Therapy and Balance Center/ HealthQuest Therapy, stated he was

delighted to partner with Mat-Su Sertoma. In addition ZumBrunnen has added FREE Balance Assessments, administered by a Physical Therapist, stating “good balance results from touch, vision, and inner ear systems working together”.

Stanefski indicated the best way to find out when the next hearing screening would take place is thru Facebook at Mat-Su Sertoma. She may also be reached at info@matsuhearing.org or at Fyzical Therapy and Balance Center/HealthQuest Therapy 907-376-6363.

Mat-Su Sertoma also partners with the Palmer Elks Lodge #1842, located on Finger Lake in Wasilla, who hosts Sertoma’s Annual Mat-Su Plunge each year. The funds raised at this event go to providing scholarships for the deaf and hard of hearing community or to those students entering a hearing health field. The date for the

Our Mission: Hearing health in the Mat Su Valley through education, hearing testing and support of services that assist individuals with deafness and hearing loss

Our Vision: Hearing health and volunteerism in the Mat-Su

Our Purpose: To meet the needs of the community through volunteer service

For more information visit: www.matsuhearing.org www.healthquesttherapy.org

We

Contributed by Paula Nance Mat-Su Sertoma Club

Contributed by Sally Barnes Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc.

Starting on January 3, 2023, Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. is offering a new BINGOCIZE class.

This 10-week program combines exercise and Bingo for a fun and exciting way to learn about Fall Prevention.

The exercises start out slow and build up stamina over the 10-week period. This class meets twice a week, on Tuesday and Friday at 10am.

Play Bingo with the chance to earn prizes all the while learning safety techniques to assist you and your loved ones in fall prevention.

A great way to exercise, have fun and meet new friends! The class typically runs for about an hour, so stay and eat lunch afterwards.

Best of all, the cost is FREE!

Contact club50@alaskaseniors.com to get involved.

If you missed the second annual Holiday Tree Tour at Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA) on December 26th, then you missed something really special! Hundreds of community friends came to see the holiday lights along the Pioneer Loop. If you have never visited GPRA, it’s located at the end of N. Mountain Trails Drive. Situated at the base of Government Peak, this park offers winter hiking, biking and of course, nordic ski trails in winter. The Mat-Su Ski Club, a non-profit organization mostly run by volunteers, maintains the ski trails year round. In winter, just over 17 kilometers of trails are groomed for classic and skate style cross-country skiing. The pioneer loop is just over one mile in length and the only trail groomed for multi-use in winter. Trail information may be found at www.

On Monday, December 26th, the wind finally calmed and volunteers added the finishing touches just in the nick of time for the second annual Holiday Tree Tour at GPRA. A free event for all!

The original date of December 23rd was postponed due to howling winds that forced downed trees and a carpet of twigs. After the storm, volunteer trail elves and groomers worked quickly to magically transform the trails and save the strewn lighting. Amazingly, we got the word out about the date change and hundreds of folks turned out to walk, ski or sled their way around the freshly groomed Pioneer loop.

The loop was all aglow with twinkling lights and inflated snow friends from 4 until 7pm. Even a hot chocolate and cookie stand awaited passers by out

Alaskan terrain and weather. In 2022 FOAST is sponsoring the purchase of four new K9s for the Alaska State Troopers.

on the loop. The warm glow of fires both greeted and bid folks farewell at the trailhead. Thanks to everyone that came out to see the main event! Battery operated lighting continues to glow after 4pm daily and will remain until their lights dim. A big shout out to all the volunteers and Elves that brought this event to life. If you, your family, group or business want to be a part of this event next year, we are always looking for new Elves to join the fun! You can reach us at info@ matsuski.org

Our Holiday Tree Tour would not have been as grand without the support of MEA. We are so grateful to the MEA Charitable Foundation and the Operation Roundup Program for their support. Consider “opting in” to this amazing community program! We hope this Holiday Tree Tour tradition will become part of yours.

In 1968 The Fraternal Order of Alaska State Troopers (FOAST) was founded with the goal of improving benefits for the Alaska State Troopers; it has since grown into a cornerstone 501(c)3 non-profit organization focused on taking care of not only Alaskan law enforcement but the communities they serve.

FOAST is partnered with the Alaska State Troopers to maintain the Safety bear program for Alaskan youth. This includes the Child ID program held at the Alaska state fair every summer; with over 4,000 IDs created for Alaskan youth in 2022 alone. The long standing Safety bear program with reflectors and safety lessons focused on things relevant to Alaskan families, which are unique to Alaska such as bears, moose, earthquakes, and avalanches.

FOAST also helps fund the purchase and training of Trooper K9 dogs which are used for both search and rescue operations state wide, which have been a large aid in Alaskan law enforcement for almost a century when it comes to finding lost individuals in

We have been fortunate enough to fund programs in local communities that directly benefit youth today, as well as help them find their footing for tomorrow. In 2022 FOAST sponsored the purchase of safety equipment for Alaska Wildlife Troopers youth hunter safety programs, donated funds to local interior Alaskan JROTC programs, donated funds to youth sports, and held several Crime Scene Investigation High School level camps in collaboration with the Alaska State Crime Lab to help those young adults who are thinking of going into these fields after graduation.

Annually FOAST facilitates training and education at the Alaska Law Enforcement Museum in Anchorage Alaska such as the US BATF sponsored Media training, the AST Commanders Conference, and the First Responders conference in Anchorage. Along with the procurement of memorial wreaths for Police week, situational preparedness simulator training, commemorative plaques for retiring Alaskan law enforcement, and programs for families left behind after an Alaskan officer’s end of watch.

The Fraternal Order of Alaska State Troopers has evolved alongside the community over the years, but one thing has remained constant- as a 501(c)3 non-profit we need your continued support so we can maintain programs benefiting families around the state of Alaska. A one time or recurring donation can be made on our website www.FOAST.org

Or by mail at 245 West 5th Ave #112 Anchorage Alaska 99501

IRS ID for the FOAST 501(c)3 Charity Corporation is 92-0091086. Thank you for your continued support.

For further information FOAST can be reached at 907-279-5050 / Admin@ foast.org

Contributed by Marla Jakab

matsuski.org

Contributed by Ron Vigil

Host: Midnight Son Riders (chapter 801 of CMA), Matsu Alano Club and Denali Harley Davidson.

January- till the end of February, this is a local food drive to benefit “Food Banks

of Matsu”.

Every year there is a gap in the resources at the local food pantries that help feed families in need. Months after the Christmas season, the shelves are empty. But this is Alaska, the winters can be harsh and hard on families.

We decided to try and fill that gap! To help those that need assistance through the food pantries in the Valley. Our food drive will be running January through the end of February. We want to do what God has asked of us by helping our Brothers and Sisters in need, spiritually as well as physically.

Please donate at one of the bins or coin jars at one of these local locations: THREE BEARS ALASKA - Big Lake, Pittman, Knik, Palmer-Wasilla DENALI HARLEY DAVIDSON PERFORMANCE YAMAHA HOUSE OF YAMAHA Q99.7

BODY PIERCING UNLIMITED SPENARD BUILDERS SUPPLY- Palmer CARRS- Wasilla-Palmer EXTREME FUN CENTER COMING ATTRACTIONS THEATER UPS-#2050 Wasilla.

Other businesses are helping as well by donating time and/or supplies, such as: The Alano Club Of Mat-Su, FredMyers of Wasilla and Palmer, Walmart, Target, Great Alaska Pizza Company, Mat-Su

Subway, The Tub House and Tanning, Kaladi Brothers, Mat-Su Water and Wasilla Fly Trampoline Park

There are “many” other businesses and people jumping in all the time to help.

There will be the Annual Bikers Fighting Hunger (The Spaghetti Feed Dinner) with all the fixings and to honor those who helped in the food drive.

This event brings in a large part of donations that are gathered for the food pantries.

Please bring a side dish, or desert, all help is welcomed!

WHEN: Sunday- February 27, 2022 @ Matsu Alano Club

WHERE: 901 Snohomish Ave, Wasilla AK TIME: 2pm till 5pm

Also, The Denali Harley Davidson shop will put on The Annual Tacos for Tires @ the Denali shop. Awesome tacos will be served up by the friendly staff of The Harley Davidson Shop to all while they collect food for the Bikers Fighting Hunger drive.

WHEN: February 18, call shop for details

@ DENALI HARLEY DAVIDSON BOTH EVENTS COSTS ARE: 12 canned goods entrance fee, or $12 at the door. Kids 10 and under free- 1 child per Adult, half price per extra child.

The Alaska Community Foundation (ACF) is pleased to offer a variety of scholarship opportunities to choose from in 2023. They cover a broad range of eligibility criteria, including academic successes, athletic accomplishments, intent for vocational training, and geographical location. With so many to choose from, every student has the chance to find their perfect fit. Most scholarships currently open for submission have a deadline of March 15, 2023. Students are encouraged to start the application process as early as possible and to reach out to ACF with any questions.

ACF’s scholarships are established thanks to the generosity of Alaskans looking to give back to the next generation. Many are created in honor of in-

spirational individuals who left a legacy of educational advancement or have spent a lifetime creating opportunities for Alaska’s youth.

The newly established Holly Dick Scholarship Fund represents the legacy of Holly Dick, who made her way from China to Anchorage as a young woman and spent her life dedicated to the service of her fellow Alaskans. Her dream was to support Chinese American students in post-secondary educational pursuits that would prepare them for fruitful future careers. The Holly Dick Scholarship awards up to four $10,000 scholarships for eligible students based on academic performance, community activities, letters of reference, and leadership activities, with a preference for Chinese American students who are the first in their families to attend college.

The Brandon C. Riley Memorial Scholar-

ship is open to applicants who, like the scholarship’s adventurous namesake, are passionate about science, sustainability, mathematics, education, or aviation, and plan to pursue higher education in one of these fields. Applicants must have resided in Alaska for a minimum of one year. The number of scholarships awarded may vary year to year, but the minimum amount will be $2,000 per awardee.

“I am so honored to have the opportunity to present these opportunities to Alaskan students on behalf of ACF as they seek to live their dreams and become the greatest versions of themselves,” said Dr. Herlanda Hampton, Scholarships Program Officer at ACF. “The opportunities we have are vast, with something for everyone. If anyone has ever dreamed of becoming a pilot, fisherman, engineer, scientist, educator, welder, or musician, The Alaska Com-

munity Foundation has a scholarship opportunity for you.”

For a complete list of scholarships, descriptions, and criteria, visit https:// alaskacf.org/scholarships/.

Established in 1995, The Alaska Community Foundation (ACF) is a statewide platform for philanthropy that connects people who care with causes that matter. Managing more than $190 million in assets and over 2000 funds for the benefit of Alaskans, ACF and their Affiliates, we grant out $7 million to $10 million in charitable gifts, charitable projects and nonprofit organizations across the state.

ACF’s mission is to inspire the spirit of giving and connect people, organizations, and causes to strengthen Alaska’s communities now and forever. For more information, visit www.alaskacf.org or call (907) 334-6700.

discount to skippers who have completed the course.

WEBSITES:

Subjects covered will include small boat handling, trailering, legal requirements including Alaska boating law, navigation rules, emergency procedures and personal watercraft considerations. The cost is $25, which includes the textbook and Eventbrite fee.

The class will meet from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday and Sunday. Students will complete the optional final exam online at home after the class.

Course information is at this link: http:// wow.uscgaux.info/pe_class_flyer. php?unit=NAT&course=26972 and the direct Eventbrite registration link is https://www.eventbrite.com/e/boatamerica-tickets-494453542857. The

Zoom

Anyone who has questions or can’t register online may contact the flotilla at (907) 694-3570 or cgauxeagleriver@ gmail.com.

This course meets the requirements for safety certification in many states and some insurance companies will offer a

Flotilla 2-14, US Coast Guard Auxiliary, Eagle River http://wow.uscgaux.info/content. php?unit=170-02-14

U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in Alaska http://wow.uscgaux.info/content. php?unit=170

Alaska State Office of Boating Safety www.alaskaboatingsafety.org

U. S. C. G. Office of Boating Safety www.uscgboating.org

National Safe Boating Council www.safeboatingcouncil.org

Contributed by The Dude Glen Butts

Contributed by Dr. Herlanda Hampton

Contributed by Doris Thomas EAGLE RIVER, Alaska –”Boat America,” a six-lesson course for recreational boaters, will be offered via Zoom the mornings of March 4 and 5 by the Eagle River Flotilla, United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

link will be provided after the student registers. Early registration is encouraged so the flotilla has time to mail the textbook to the student before the class.

COMMUNITY

Contributed by Staci Yates, MY House

January is dedicated to raising awareness of human trafficking throughout the U.S. and the world. There are estimated to be more than 24.9 million people — adults and children — subjected to human trafficking around the world, including in the United States. In the most recent report from The Bureau of Justice Statistics, Human Trafficking Data Collection Activities, 2022, the most recent data from 2020 was highlighted including:

A total of 2,198 persons were referred to U.S. Attorneys for human trafficking offenses in fiscal year 2020, a 62% increase from the 1,360 persons referred in 2011.

• The number of persons prosecuted for human trafficking increased from 729 in 2011 to 1,343 in 2020, an 84% increase.

The number of persons convicted of a federal human trafficking offense increased from 2011 (464 persons) to 2019 (837 persons), before falling in 2020 (658 persons).

At yearend 2020, for the 47 states that reported data, 1,564 persons were in the custody of a state prison serving a sentence for a human trafficking offense.

O f the 1,169 defendants charged in U.S. district court with human trafficking offenses in fiscal year 2020 —92%

were male, 63% were white, 18% were black, 17% were Hispanic, 95% were U.S. citizens, and 66% had no prior convictions.

What about Alaska’s stats? Our state is working on building better data to reflect the true numbers of trafficking cases in Alaska, but we believe we have some of the highest numbers in the nation. In the 2019 FBI Uniform Crime Report indicates Alaska’s rate of sexual assault is nearly 4 times the national average. Alaska has 161.6 sexual assaults per 100,000 residents, compared to 42.6 nationally. Child sexual assaults here in Alaska are nearly 6 times the national average, read that again, SIX TIMES THE NATIONAL AVERAGE.

MY House in Wasilla has 456 current clients with 34 clients reporting being trafficked here locally. 82% of trafficked clients report mental health conditions, 76% of trafficked clients reported having experienced domestic violence and 77% reported trading sex for needs. The MY House stats reflect that we do indeed have a problem with trafficking and those are just the ones brave enough to report it in our survey.

MY House provides wrap around services for survivors of human trafficking which include: Safe House Transitional Living, Substance Abuse Treatment with partners True North and Set Free,

Mental Health Services with partners Mat-Su Behavioral Health, SART on site, High School Completion Program, Job Training with partner Nine Star, Case Managers & Navigators on site. We surround our clients with wrap around services to promote healing and wholeness to those who have experienced the hideous, silent crime of human trafficking.

For the month of January MY House has several ways they are bringing awareness to Wasilla. The MY House Gathering Grounds Café and Perk Ups of Wasilla will be using the coffee sleeves with each purchase that provides a message of how to recognize and report human trafficking. As an effort to raise awareness they also have 12 organizations supporting and participating in wearing the “Stop Human Trafficking T-shirts” on the same day to bring a collective awareness to our communities.

Participating are the organizations below:

City of Wasilla, Mayor Glenda Ledford

Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce

Matanuska Federal Credit Union Remax of the Valley Motto Mortgage UMV

Northern Industrial Training

Bore Tide Construction

Mac Federal Credit Union Good, Better, Best

Youth for Sitka

Priceless Knik Sunny Chapel Knik Tribe

Together we can make a bigger impact in raising our voices to say we want human trafficking in Alaska and our communities to STOP! I want to say a big thank you to the organizations and individuals who stand with MY House in January as we fight the silent crime of human and sex trafficking.

Our youth today need us more than ever to speak to them about what healthy relationships look like and more importantly, what they do not look like! For a great resource on how to talk to youth about healthy relationships and human trafficking please go to The Blue Campaign/Homeland Security and download the guide “How to Talk to Youth about Human Trafficking”. Blue Campaign Toolkits and Guides | Homeland Security (dhs.gov)

Another way to get involved is to join ASHTA (Alaska Stop Human Trafficking Alliance) and be a part of the conversations on how to better combat trafficking in Alaska. You may email ASTHA’S chair, Staci Yates at notrafficking@ myhousematsu.org. You may also email her to schedule a training in 2023 for your organization on understanding trafficking in Alaska.

Staci Yates, MY House

Director of Human Trafficking Recovery Services notrafficking@myhousematsu.org 907-373-4357

Contributed by Taylor Jordan

(TRIGGERING EVENT WARNING) Black Birch Books is hosting a Great and Terrible event in a presentation format not often seen. Join us Saturday, January 28th from 1pm-3pm for The Human Garden Experience: Planting seeds of understanding in your garden of thought and acceptance.

We have five, safe, guest speakers sharing their real, unfiltered experiences with those who wish to attend. Experiences include: Drug addiction, criminal convictions, human trafficking victim, sexual assault victim and military PTSD. Each individual has their own labeled table for small groups of people to transition through. As we expect the moment to become overwhelming, we have an on site professional to assist in

warmly and when we broke down miles from home, the person I was with knew how to start the machine with his belt instead of the starter cord.

breathing exercises and calming techniques as needed.

This is a free event for the community. There will be a donation jar available if you feel so moved.

* Our facility is fully handicap accessible. Only those attending the event will be allowed entry. No children under 12 are permitted.

(TRIGGERING EVENT WARNING) All guest speakers will be sharing their

off an avalanche.

Contributed by Debra McGhan

For many, the turning of the calendar includes sharing tips, tricks or messages about resolutions. Vowing to start, change or do something to improve your life; to help you on your path to grow and become a better, healthier, happier you. Maybe you want to eat better, sleep more, work out, make money, ride your snowmachine… whatever the goal, it’s all about choices and building new habits that will maintain the energy required to achieve these goals.

In years past, safety protocols and building awareness skills have been a big focus in my world. Having lived through numerous life challenging experiences which required tools, knowledge, supplies and determination to overcome, I understand how critical those things are in times of crisis.

I survived a twenty-below-zero ride on a snowmachine because I was dressed

I survived a white water lake crossing in an open canoe during a raging storm because we all wore life jackets, stayed centered in the boat and paddled into the waves to keep from capsizing.

I survived falling through the ice because I was taught to carry something sharp in my pocket when traveling over ice so I’d have a way to pull myself out if I fell in. I had a stubby screwdriver that day.

In my career, I have also heard many stories of others’ close calls. One year while camping at Arctic Man in the Alaska Range just north of Paxon at Summit Lake, a man walked into the avalanche forecast safety center where I was working with two of his friends and told me he had a story to share.

The three friends had been highmarking (riding as far up a steep face as possible) around the area when they set

“I wasn’t paying attention until I realized this thing was about to swallow me and I was down in a little gully,” said Robert Woods. “I managed to throttle out but it scared me and made me realize, you really do have to take riding around here serious. I heard about a guy killed here last year and now I really understand just how easy something like that can happen.”

“Yes,” I told him. “Last spring we lost two riders in this area. One, a young mother who left behind two small children, and then, the very next day, the man you are talking about. He, like you, was just out riding with his buddies.”

He thanked me for being there to raise awareness and share safety tips and tricks. All three wanted to sign up for a training session. I thanked them for sharing their story. Those shared stories help us learn, grow and avoid tragic endings.

My resolution this year is to continue supporting avalanche and snowma-

real, unfiltered experiences with those who wish to attend. This is always a safe space. By hosting this event we are planting the seeds of understanding in your garden of thought and acceptance.

~ Black Birch Books is a female, disabled veteran owned small business who exclusively hires homeless youth from the community. We are the only bookstore in Wasilla and the only bookbinder in the state of Alaska. ~ 2901 E. Bogard Rd. Wasilla

chine safety. Continue writing stories that enlighten, encourage and motivate people to learn and think about their actions and the potential consequences of those actions before they set out to explore Alaska. And always continue striving to be the best human I can be.

This year I want to be present and thoughtful in all my actions. I want to share the skills and knowledge I have acquired along my journey with others who want to learn how they can come back to ride another day.

One of the organizations I’m supporting is Alaska Safe Riders. The board, made up of Iron Dog Champions, community business leaders and retired teachers, offers free school and community outreach training thanks to grants, donors and members.

If one of your resolutions is to get out and explore Alaska more, I hope you join Alaska Safe Riders, or one of the other non-profit organizations offering outdoor safety education classes around Alaska. You can learn more at alaskasaferiders.com or Alaskasnow.org.

Are you as happy as we are that 2022 is over? At our house we are so ready to have a new year. Last year was crazy. To start the year off, we had a wind storm on New Year’s Day which took down two of our fences, blew away our small greenhouse and ripped the cover off our camper. It was a tough start to the year. As the year progressed we both had significant health problems. Then the year came to an end with another huge windstorm.

Thank goodness that 2022 is over and we can all start over again. 2023 has to be a great year if only because I survived last year. Also, I have begun this year with several new resolutions. To begin with, I have made several great New Year’s resolutions. I even wrote them down, and made a day-to-day plan, to ensure I won’t forget. I know you think I will weaken in a few days or certainly by the end of the month. However, I have been spending the past year reading motivational books and listening to podcasts. I am determined to completely reorganize my life to be more positive no matter what happens. So here is what I have learned:

Most of the self help programs begin with getting up each morning at the same time. Ok, I can do that.

Next most of them go something like this: Make your bed. Ignore your phone. Go outside. Set a program for the day Brush your teeth. Say you are wonderful in your mirror.

I might have to skip the saying I am wonderful as when I look in the mirror first thing in the morning, I am in no mood to tell myself anything. Decided to wait until I had my first cup of coffee before trying that part of the program.

I was pleased that one of things most of the self help books thought important was making the bed first thing in the

morning. That is the one thing that I have always done and I regularly brush my teeth before my first cup of coffee.

Ignore your phone! That part is easy for me as I have refused to become attached to my phone and in fact only have an (old fashioned) flip phone. I know that sounds almost medieval (as my daughters would say) but with my eyesight I prefer a big screen and so only use my phone for what it was originally intended for....calling a friend or for use in an emergency.

Then there was the suggestion that I should keep a log of all the good things that happen each day because of my positive attitude. That actually sounds like a lot of work and if nothing good happens it could be depressing so I have decided to skip that part of the program.

Make plans the night before for the next day. As I noted earlier I have actually planned the entire year out and so only have to get up each day and follow the plan.

Go outside. Now that is something that has taken on more importance to me since the windstorm just before this Christmas. It piled up a four foot drift in front of our front door and a five foot drift on our deck and patio door to effectively trap us inside over Christmas. Luckily we were not expecting company, as both daughters went south for Christmas. We did have heat, intermittent electricity and plenty of great food so we were fine. It did, however, make both Doug and I appreciate the freedom of being able to leave the house. We also marveled how the pioneers existed up here before central heating and well insulated houses.

I am so looking forward to this new year and would like to share one of my favorite New Year Quotes:

“The New Year is a painting not yet

painted; a path not yet stepped on, a wing not yet taken off! Things haven’t happened as yet!

Before the clock strikes twelve, remember that you are blessed with the ability to reshape your life!” Mehmet Murat Ildan, Turkish Author

Also, remember your New Year’s resolution and let it inspire you to have the best year ever, no matter what outside events conspire against you. I have found that adversity helps all of us appreciate the good times and shows us the kindness of our neighbors and friends.

Wishing you the best New Year ever. As for me, I will be writing more, painting more and getting out and about. Hope to see you and share good times with you and yours in our delightful little city of Palmer.

Arctic Man 2015 1 – Riders heading for the starting of the race

Arctic Man 2015 2 – Training camp at Arctic ManKevin Salys – with the Alaska Avalanche Information Center teaching proper probing techniques

Sarah Carter – with the Alaska Avalanche Information Center teaching children safe protocols for playing in the mountains

Contributed by Marilyn Bennett

Contributed by Josh Nestler

The Wasilla Vet Center has moved to 1751 E Gardner Way, Suite B. The Wasilla Vet Center remains conveniently located in the community to assist Veterans and their families build meaningful connections and develop tools for achieving success in both military and

civilian lives.

The Wasilla Vet Center offers counseling services to eligible Veterans and family members, referrals to community and VA services, and community engagement opportunities. The Wasilla Vet Center also provides a welcoming environment, community support, as well as

practical and therapeutic services.

While no reopening ceremony date has been set yet, our doors are open to the community we serve. Vet Center operating hours are Monday thru Friday 8:00 AM-4:30PM.

Contributed by Cherime MacFarlane

The furnace died in November, shortly before Thanksgiving. The company I called did everything they could to resurrect the old thing. No go. That meant I needed a new one. Since this is a homebuilt cabin, not any old furnace will do.

Then, there is the age of the owner, 80, and the age of the cabin, 40.

First on the to-do list, was locating a furnace Outside and getting it shipped up here. Along came the snow apocalypse and a series of weird things happening all at once. It became apparent I wouldn’t have any heat for all of December other than two small radiant electric heaters and my tiny wood stove.

This is where we come to the meat of the story. I had some wood but not enough to make it to furnace delivery time. After rounding up what looked as if it might do the job, I set about getting the stove ready for a month of hard labor.

I usually use the small stove with a glass insert in the door to help ease the

heating situation when the temperature drops below -15. The electric heaters, with both going full blast, will keep the downstairs at about 45 degrees. With a nice wool blanket, the loft stays warm enough for sleeping. But that’s too cold for comfort downstairs where everything else is.

The wood stove had to work properly. I’d installed a draft inducer years ago. Best move I’ve made in a while. If it’s very cold and the wind is howling, that blower makes all the difference in getting and keeping a fire going until the bed of coals is hot enough to light every split you toss in.

The glass needed a new seal. When you know if you break that glass, you are flat out of luck, removing it and installing the new seal is a hold your breath operation. Since the woven stuff is tubular, it needs to be compressed ever so gently while you try to get the nuts back on the studs.

A few prayers and patience got me through that one. Now I had to remember a lot of things I learned out in the Copper Basin the first nine years I

lived in Alaska. Heating with wood is a science. You don’t just throw a hunk of wood on the stove and expect it to heat you. What kind of wood are you using to start the fire? What do you use to build the bed of coals that will radiate the heat you need?

It all came back quickly. I hope to have the furnace in the first week of January. If it isn’t, it will be time to buy more wood. I want a mix of birch and spruce. The spruce gets it started and the birch burns slow and steady. Once I have the dampers set right, that little stove that barely holds three splits sixteen inches long will heat the entire house. I keep glancing at the glass in the door so I can gauge when the next log should go in. And it burns efficiently. I need to clean out the excess ash about every two days.

It’s messy, but I have and will always maintain it. Nothing heats like wood, nothing. I will be glad to get the oil-fired furnace going. I do hate getting up to a cold house. As my husband used to say, “Needs must when the devil drives.” If I find it necessary to buy more wood, I have a phone number and will call. It’s been years since I had to depend on a wood stove, but it can be done, and I will if I must. Time to throw in another log. Stay warm, y’all.

The Bright Lights Book Project is now three years old. It is much like Margret and H.A. Rey’s Curious George – somewhat independent, but as always, in need of constant supervision.

When I began this project, I thought that the overhead would remain low. There was just me, who volunteered my time. And because I was distributing just a handful of books a week, my gas costs were negligible. Here’s what happened:

I discovered that there were literally hundreds of books in chest-high boxes, on the VCRS processing floor. I was further told that paperbacks were being shredded by a cadre of dedicated volunteers, and the hardbacks were being pulped. That day I took a few boxes of books, some of which I kept, and some of which I passed on to friends. Shortly thereafter, I resumed literary dumpster diving. I continued to pass books on to appreciative readers. I attribute the continued growth to community support. The common refrain became “Free books! What a wonderful idea!”

It worked both ways. There was never any shortage of books. The Mat-Su and Anchorage School district, community members, and family members donated what became an endless supply of books. And young and old began taking the salvaged books. As Logan Dillinger of Alaska Nomad Cinematics once remarked, “you created a need!” There were so many books coming into VCRS that the staff opened their own bookstore, Rescue Books. There, for a pittance, readers could acquire additional books. BLBP volunteers came from out of the proverbial woodwork. They continue to salvage, sort, clean, categorize, and distribute books.

This past summer the Bright Lights Book Project was a mainstay at the Palmer Museum and Visitor’s Center during Friday Fling. We also passed out BLBP

books at the Menard Center Emergency Preparedness Fair and at the Nutcracker Performing Arts Center nonprofit rehearsal. Additionally, books were included in bags of goodies passed out on Christmas day at the Menard Center Family Christmas Dinner. We sent several boxes of books to several Alaskan villages – air cargo carriers donated freight space. I flew to Barrow and assisted Pamella Sampson in organizing a book fair at the Kiita Alternative School.

We eventually moved our basecamp from VCRS to the Meeting House/ Church of the Covenant at 415 S. Bailey Street. This location was a perfect logistical fit in terms of our local book distribution network. It began with my contacting local business owner Janet Kincaid, who allowed us to stock bookcases in the Valley Hotel and the hallway by Vagabond Blues. Turkey Red owner Alex Papasavas followed suit. This was just the beginning. We now have twenty-five plus bookcases located in Palmer, Sutton, and Wasilla. And the books go fast; in fact, they go so fast that on some days we distribute them in some locations twice-daily.

This past February (with the assistance of Senator Lisa Murkowski) the Bright Lights book Project acquired 501(c) (3) nonprofit status. The Mat-Su Health Foundation, the Palmer Community Foundation, MTA, and Saltchuk provided us with funding. And shortly thereafter, the Bright Lights Board of Directors held its first meeting. When asked, I say no, I never thought that the Bright Lights Book Project would become what BLBP supporter Timothy Miller calls, “A Community Mainstay.”

First, there was a mission statement, which was “to get books into the hands of appreciative readers.” Then came a vision statement, which is “envisioning the power of literacy to change lives.” We’re now looking to the future. I, along with BLBP board members, are envisioning the creation of a literacy center, one

in which local educators will focus on their specific areas of expertise in teaching reading, writing, and ESL classes.

The vision and mission statement combined have created a need on our part for two buildings. The first will be a book distribution center. The second will be the above-mentioned literacy center. To do this, we’re going to need financial backing. We’re currently compiling a list, one which we’ll draw upon when asking local business owners, corporate

entities, and community members for financial support. We’ll do this directly (by contacting potential donors) and indirectly, by asking potential contributors to go to our website, www.brightlightsbookproject.org, and make an online donation.

Sometimes I look at how far we have to go. And sometimes I look at how far we’ve come. Other times, I shake my head and go “wow.”

Contributed by Alys Culhane

Liberty, Liberally

A lot of people dismiss Marx because of the historical outcomes of Marxism. They see, rightly, that Marxism has completely failed in every instance that it was instituted. They feel justified in their willful ignorance of Marx and his philosophy by thinking (wrongly) that it has no value to society. Clearly, it has great value. We learn more from folly and failure than from our successes.

By ignoring Marx, they ignore the transformative power of his philosophy. In short, they never see it coming.

Marxism is an active philosophy that is not only theory, but praxis. It puts into practice a process of transformative politics that is designed to initiate a chain reaction that ultimately achieves revolution. Marxism is progressive.

They do not know the theories of Marx, those who are affected by it.

Marx borrowed heavily from German philosopher, Hegel, who is most known for his concept ‘thesis-antithesissynthesis’. This sounds all sciency, but it’s simple, really:

The old idea (thesis) eventually encounters the new idea (antithesis), and in the conflict between the two a third idea (synthesis) emerges. Hegel was philosophizing about ideas and how they develop in human history.

Marx, however, took Hegel’s idea and adapted it to a social theory. His philosophy was that the thesis (however society does something now) can be countered by its antithesis (how the revolutionaries want society to do things) and that the result is how society emerges from that conflict, this being the synthesis of the old way and new.

What comes from that philosophy is a new kind of activism; a sophistic, disingenuous activism is synthesized, and it is a poison to a free society. While Hegel was a friend to the philosophy of Liberalism (not to be confused with the modern tribal political faction), and believed strongly in individual liberty as did the founders of the United States, Marx had a completely different definition of individual liberty.

(We see more and more how language being redefined is the primary form of Marxist manipulation of society, and Marx paved the way in that regard.)

When Marx’s concept of social change is applied knowingly, in order to bring about social change, it is taking advantage of human nature, as Hegel described it. Clearly, since Marxists the world over have affected change in this way, Hegel was on to something. His description of how ideas have changed over time was repurposed, to intentionally bring about changes that were not the natural process. Hegel described how ideas have changed, but Marx prescribed how society should and could change. Hegel provided a broad view of human nature, then Marx provided the impetus to artificially affect nature, using Hegel’s insight to do so.

The reason I advocate for understanding Marx goes beyond the maxim of “know your enemy”. Marxism has competed with the philosophy of Liberty, as defined by the Liberal philosophers, very successfully. While Marxism fails at establishing a better society from it’s artificial influence, it succeeds greatly in destroying the Liberal society that it influences. By a sophistic process of redefining words, on purpose, it makes impossible any honest public discourse, muddying the waters. It takes advantage of the freedoms of Liberalism, like free expression and guarantees of life, liberty and property, all the while undermining the same. Marx succeeded in developing a formidable enemy, the antithesis of Liberty, and as Hegel would tell you, the synthetic outcome will come.

To ignore how this process works, to remain ignorant of human nature while others weaponize that same knowledge against humanity, is the dereliction of duty that our great philosophers of Liberty all warned against. To be free, and to squander that freedom on indulgence and a life of ease, instead of enduring effort and study, leads to the eventual loss of liberty. We’ve been warned, again and again, yet here we are. Most folks today don’t know anything about Marx, or the so-called Neo-Marxist thought that is the source of so much social justice theory today. They don’t see how it works, even as it works against them all the time.

To ignore Marxist philosophy is to accept a Marxist reality.

Make Art A Poem

by Joshua Fryfogle

October 25, 2022

Art is self expression, language is a medium, or even a tool of art.

Language is how we engage in the civic process. While this process and its product have been bifurcated from the realm of art, this separation was only a function of art. The ability to separate, conceptually through language, the art of self-expression and the self-expression of civic engagement are only as old as self-governance has been a model of society. Liberalism, and other attempts at self-governance, were philosophical first. They came into the world by virtue of the moniker “liberal arts”, after all.

The arts of liberty include the trivium, the first three of the seven liberal arts: grammar, rhetoric, and logic. The trivium, this triune tradition of clear communication was at one time fit for a king. Only royalty and religious leaders were worried with such things. Monarchy was authoritarian. Monarchy didn’t need the serfs and slaves to govern themselves. The concept of liberty of the individual was foreign to those societies.

However, humanity was born free, and the Monarchs were actually oppressing the people as much as protecting their people. How did they oppress, or as they described it, rule them? Via language.

“Author” is the root of authoritarian. This is the DNA of the word “authoritarian”, and it tells us a lot about the nature of authoritarian rule, being oppression.

How did they rule/oppress the people? With authorship?

Yes.

Fiat. Rule by fiat. This was the form of government that enslaved all of humanity. They simply made the claim, and laid claim, to the people, and were willing to enforce that rule by military means. Humanity had never known another way than to be ruled, and accepted this ancient reality as commonplace throughout almost all of history.

Etymology of Fiat: fiat (n.)

1630s, "authoritative sanction," from Latin fiat "let it be done" (used in the openingofMedievalLatinproclamations and commands), third person singular present subjunctive of fieri "be done, become, come into existence" (from PIE root *bheue- "to be, exist, grow"), used as passive of facere "to make, do." Meaning "a decree, command, order" is from 1750. In English the word also sometimes is a reference to fiat lux "let there be light" in Genesis i.3.

Remember, the liberal philosophy is new on the earth. The totalitarians (fascists and communists alike) don’t even believe it’s a real thing. They are the intellectual and moral inheritors of authoritarianism, minus the spiritual concept of Divine Right of Kings. Liberalism, on the other hand, is the recognition of the divine right of each individual to govern themselves - the opposite of authoritarian and totalitarian thought.

For millennia these authoritarian rulers had ruled the people everywhere. They did so by making a claim to a divine right from God to rule. They, and they alone, had “liberty”. Liberty existed in contrast to its antithesis, serfdom and slavery. However, the printing press set things in motion that allowed the average individual to avail themselves of the written word. Never before had it been practical for the average individual to express themselves with language, as scrolls were all hand written and very expensive. How expensive? A scribe, working full time, might spend several years making copies of other works, and only the wealthiest in society could afford such a luxury, least of all a serf.

In our modern times, we tend to take for granted our ability to speak, think, write, and learn so freely. Ironically, if we read more history, we would likely take reading more seriously. We forget that widespread literacy was achieved following the rise of philosophical liberalism. Our ability to read and write, to express ourselves, is our artistic ability. An individual exists, self-evidently, by virtue of their selfexpression. This is art, in it’s simplest, purest form.

Make art of this No matter what this is Do your part and it Becomes what it is

The activist dimension of Marx’s philosophy cannot be ignored, so the theoretical dimension of Marx shouldn’t be.

You can respond to what you’ve read, or write what matters to you.

The Pro-slavery Perspective

Written by George Fitzhugh, 1854*, With commentary from Joshua Fryfogle, on MLK Day, January 16, 2023

(Note from Joshua Fryfogle: I’m including this in Liberty, Liberally, for the purpose of comparison. I’ll ask the reader to consider as they read this pro-slavery sentiment from 1854 (nine years before the Emancipation Proclamation) how the justifications presented for slavery are not unfamiliar today. Consider the arguments put forth by Fitzhugh in 1854, in his academic response to the abolitionist movement. They mirror precisely the arguments made today against the Liberty movement in general. Below are excerpts from the writings of Fitzhugh, with my comments added here and there.)

“TEN YEARS AGO (I) became satisfied that slavery, black or white, was right and necessary.... Liberty and equality are new things under the sun. The free states of antiquity abounded with slaves. The feudal system that supplanted Roman institutions changed the form of slavery, but brought with it neither liberty nor equality. France and the Northern States of our Union have alone fully and fairly tried the experiment of a social organization founded upon universal liberty and equality frights... The experiment has already failed, it we are to form our opinions from the discontent of the masses... Liberty and equality have not conduced to enhance the comfort or the happiness of the people... The struggle to better one's condition, to pull others down or supplant them is the great organic law of free society. All men being equal, all aspire to the highest honors and the largest possessions... None but the selfish virtues are encouraged, because none other aid a man in the race of free competition... The bestowing upon men of equality of rights, is but giving license to the strong to oppress the weak...”

Fitzhugh rightly points out that the ideas of Liberty and equality were new ideas on the earth, and that slavery is ancient. He points to the discontent that inevitably becomes apparent of any free people who are not prohibited from speaking freely, and characterizes that ongoing public discourse as failure. He claims that Liberty and equality have not made people happier, presumably because we now know how we, the People, truly feel. He claims, like his contemporary Karl Marx, that individual Liberty as presented by the liberal philosophers was giving the strong power over the weak.

“There is no rivalry, no competition to get employment among slaves, as among free laborers. Nor is there a war between master and slave. The master's interest prevents his reducing the slave's allowance or wages in infancy or sickness, for he might lose the slave by so doing His feeling for his slave never permits him to stint him in old age. The slaves are all well fed, well clad, have plenty of fuel, and are happy. They have no dread of the future - no fear of want. A state of dependence is the only condition in which reciprocal affection can exist among human beings- the only situation in which the war of competition ceases, and peace, amity and good will arise. A state of independence always begets more or less of jealous rivalry and hostility. A man loves his children because they are weak, help less and dependent; he loves his wife for similar reasons...”

In his second paragraph, Fitzhugh points out that the slaves do not have to compete in the job market, but are assigned by their masters a guaranteed, but mandatory position in the workforce. This, too, is consistent with Marxist theory. The master is not at odds with the slave, he says, seemingly oblivious to the moral wrong that he is describing. Ironically, slaves know better than to speak freely, so he would necessarily be unaware of how they feel. To Fitzhugh, this all makes sense. It makes sense to a dictator as well.

He also describes the economic providence of the master to the slave, with the master making sure that everyone is cared for at a bare minimum. Marx thought that the

State should do this for all working class people, just as Fitzhugh thought the master should provide for his slave. He then compares the master’s relationship with the slave as being like a parent to a child. Marx, interestingly, believed that class society exists because the State and the Family unit serve to reinforce it. Both the slave master and the Marxist think it morally acceptable to mimic the family unit in their designs to control others. This desire for paternalistic control over other people was, when both Marx and Fitzhugh lived, still the prevailing perspective all over the earth. Remember, liberty and equality were still quite new in 1854.

Describing the economic conditions of the slave-holding South, Fitzhugh argued:

“This ratio of improvement has been approximated or exceeded wherever in the South slaves are numerous... Wealth is more equally distributed than at the North, where a few millionaires own most of the property of the country. (These millionaires are men of cold hearts and weak minds; they know how to make money, but not how to use it, either for the benefit of themselves or of others.)”

Fitzhugh invokes equal distribution of wealth, the clarion call of anyone influenced by Marx’s philosophy. He then goes on to blame the “millionaires” for being heartless. These are modern, progressive talking points, talking to us from the year 1854. They remind us that dictators believe themselves noble, enslaving those who would be enslaved, “caring” for them. In reality, they seek power and control over other human beings.

Modern progressivism and actual Liberalism are at odds. They always have been. The liberty movement, in it’s infancy, was opposed by men like Fitzhugh, who might have even read the writings of Marx, since they were contemporaries. Neither Fitzhugh or Marx agreed

I can’t be sure of this, because it is only my own perception of Marx and the time of slavery in the US, but my view of history has never placed Karl Marx as living during the same time period as American slavery. For whatever reason, Marx has been presented to us as sophisticated, forward thinking, somehow removed from the milieu of history. Simultaneously, however, I perceive slavery as an antiquated, and thankfully discontinued practice. In truth, Marx lived during that time, when liberty lovers were actually abolishing slavery for the first time in history. Meanwhile, Marx dreamed of “ending” slavery by making everyone a slave - never needing to look for work, because they were assigned work. Never going hungry, because they were allotted just enough. While the liberal philosophers and founding fathers actually did something to end the ancient abomination of slavery, Marx imagined how to make it more efficient.

I have so many friends who call themselves ‘liberal’. Truly, I love these people in my life, and I usually get along with them a little bit better than most Republicans and conservatives that I know - although I certainly count many conservatives as close. My interests are in literature and letters, music and culture, the liberal arts - the arts of Liberty! So those who call themselves liberal, but then embrace these so-called ‘criticallyconscious’ concepts that are rooted in Marxist theory... it’s just so perplexing for me. I worry that they conflate Marxist thought with liberal thought, when Marx hated liberalism more than anything else. He believed that liberalism was a means of exploitation, while being blind to the hell his philosophy would soon unleash on the earth. Liberalism is the wellspring of Liberty, and it’s for this reason that I’ve entitled this monthly publication Liberty, Liberally.

We must remember that these repackaged ideas of Marx are not, and cannot possibly be construed as ‘being liberal.’

It’s imperative that the tradition of liberalism not be destroyed, in name or in practice. We liberals, who are actually liberal in character and belief, must not forget that while communists have failed miserably all over the world, their repeated attempts all ending in mass-murder, we liberals have brought lasting liberty to much of the world.

*Source: George Fitzhugh, Sociology for the South, or the Failure of Free Society (Richmond, Va., 1854), pp. 225-55

“I prefer to be true to myself, even at the hazard of incurring the ridicule of others, rather than to be false, and to incur my own abhorrence.”

“But, to protect men, we must have the power of controlling them. We must first enslave them before we can protect them.”

- George Fitzhugh

“Political economy is the science of free society. It’s theory and its history alike establish this position. Its fundamental maxims, laissez-faire (“let do”) and ‘Pas tromp gouverner’ (“govern not too much”) are at war with all kinds of slavery, for they in fact assert that individuals and peoples proper most when governed least.”

- George Fitzhugh

We’ve gotten a surprising number of donations from community members at The People’s Paper and Make A Scene Magazine over the years, and recently it’s increased with the publication of Liberty, Liberally.

We’ve also received many requests for subscription services, requests to mail Liberty, Liberally, and our other publications to people near and far... So we thought, why not make it easier to donate, and get something in return, too?

With a minimum $8 per month donation, you’ll receive a copy of each publication - and even special publications and other things that might fit in a Manila envelope!

Thanks so much for your words of encouragement and financial support over the years. We take your trust very seriously, as we steward content from you and your neighbors onto the printed page. It’s an American tradition which we are blessed to uphold.

www.LibertyLiberally.com

From the Journal of Joshua Fryfogle

You can respond to what you’ve read, or write what matters to you.

“The time is always right to do what is right.”

- Martin Luther King, Jr.

Contributed by Karen Wilbanks

Alaska Correctional Ministries (ACM) is honored to receive a grant from Bishop’s Attic II to help with the cost of consumable items used by Chaplains, Inmates & Volunteers in prisons throughout the state.

Thank you, Bishop’s Attic II, for your dedication and support of nonprofits in the Valley and throughout the State of

Alaska!

Now in its 43rd year, the mission of Alaska Correctional Ministries is to proclaim God’s redemptive and unfailing love to Alaska’s prisoners and form a bridge of transformation and hope as these returning citizens find their place in society. Working together with the Department of Corrections (DOC) we provide life-changing core ministries and programs to Alaska’s prisoners and

ex-offenders that offer hope and real solutions in their lives through the transforming work of God.

Individually, and in concert with each other, ACM’s Christian discipleship and Core Ministries work together to assist men and women exiting prison to be successful in their integration into their communities. We help them to form pro-social networks, and, through our education and counseling work, our clients learn to identify bad behaviors and utilize the tools they are taught to think situations through and make

better choices leading to lasting positive changes in their lives. In our safe living homes, these men and women are provided stable, Christ-centered housing and help finding meaningful employment with a goal of self-sufficiency and full, lasting integration back into society as a whole.

ACM is a non-profit 501(C)(3) ministry. Anyone interested in learning more about us, volunteering or financially supporting ACM is encouraged to reach out to us at 907-339-0432.

Contributed by Marissa Bieger

Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center (HPAC) is excited to welcome you back to our annual party and fundraiser, the Cabin Fever Reliever, on Saturday, February 4th from 6 PM to 10 PM. The event will be hosted at the Palmer Moose Lodge and will feature live music by Alaskan favorites Hope Social Club.

This event was started in 2017 and serves as an annual gathering for our community of snow-enthusiasts – skiers, snowboarders, snowmachiners, and hikers, alike. We’ll have appetizers from Turkey Red and beverages available for purchase from some of our local breweries. HPAC forecasters and volunteers will be selling our latest merchandise and raffle tickets for prizes including a helicopter ski day with Chugach Powder Guides!

All proceeds from the event go directly to support our mission. HPAC was founded in 2009 by Allie Barker and Jed Workman to meet the need for avalanche information that is both publicly accessible and understandable and meets professional standards in Hatcher Pass. Now a non-profit, communitysupported 501(c)(3) avalanche center, we are the only forecast center and provider of free public avalanche safety education in our area. We also provide scholarships to local youth seeking formal avalanche training.

Join us at the Moose Lodge for a night of music, friends, and celebration, and don’t forget your dancing shoes!

Tickets are available directly at hpac. brownpapertickets.com and through our website, hpavalanche.org.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Contributed by Jason Goldsmith

This year I’ll lose all this weight. This year I’ll spend more time with family. This year I’ll make more friends. This year I’ll act my age. This year I’ll be different. Let’s be honest with ourselves; What is the likelihood we will make a huge change in ourselves this year? People can’t change? Many of us forget what it is like to make real change in our lives. When we were young and small, we were in a constant state of change. We became larger, faster and smarter as the days go on. We were constantly learning new things. How to walk, jump and run. How to read, write and think.

What happened to our ability to look forward to the change with eyes open in wonder. Many of us become focused on disappointment, however and lose our forward momentum as things become more and more difficult. It becomes easy to focus upon what we believe to be failings.

We often set ourselves up for failure by creating a sense of false expectations. Meaning, we often tell ourselves change must be drastic, immediate and show instant results. I should lose 10lbs. in the first week, right? Wrong! True and lasting change happens gradually over time as we build new habits to replace old

maladaptive ones.

The first thing to remember is to make a plan with a clear goal. I want to reduce my weight to something healthier. The next step might be to stay away from fads and consult your doctor to see what a healthy change might look like and an example of what steady stable change might look like for you specifically. Keep reminding yourself of the old “tortoise and hare” cartoons, slow and steady wins the race!

When creating change there is a good rule to remember. A perfect monk might take up to 4 weeks to learn a new behavior and initiate change. The average individual might take 2 to 3 months. If you’re anything like me (stubborn and pig headed) it may take 6 to 12 months.

otics is showing that not only are they ineffective at treating ear infections, but they will lead to repeated ear infections in your child. Antibiotics do not kill viruses and can make viral infections worse by wiping out competing bacterial flora and encouraging secondary bacterial infections of resistant strains.

We want to leave you with action steps to empower YOU! So, what can you do? Take your child to a Pediatric Chiropractor!

How can chiropractic care help and relieve these frustrating ear infections?

There is a nerve in the upper cervical spine that controls the eustachian tube (aka tube that helps drain fluid and equalizes air pressure in your ears).

A chiropractic adjustment can: Ensure that the nerves that control the ear are communicating correctly Encourage proper drainage through the ear canal & lymphatic system Alleviate any discomfort that may be coming from a misalignment within the upper spine

If you have a kiddo that has struggled with any of these things, we would love to help guide you!

These are some statistics to remember when you look in the mirror and ask why you haven’t lost 20lbs. in two days. Be good and kind to yourself and others but above all, be honest.

Welcome to the New Year from the staff here at HOW! For more tips and skills for change, feel free to contact us. Here at HOW, we would like to make ourselves available to you in answering some of your questions and concerns. Please contact us, and we will reply in the next edition, or directly, while keeping you anonymous. We look forward to hearing from you.

https://hatsofwisdom.com/ https://www.instagram.com/hats_of_ wisdom907/

touching. He went through 3 antibiotics and 3 antibiotic shots in his leg! Two trips to the ER and countless sleepless nights of pain and agony.

That is until mama bear stepped in and said ENOUGH is ENOUGH ! No more antibiotics, no surgery, no tubes, I am not putting him through anymore at just 6 months old. So, I went online and researched Pediatric Chiropractic Care! When I say researched, I mean every facility, every review, every in and out of who would be best for my baby boy. Just then I came across Bee Well, reading EVERY single story and every experience others had. I LOVE what Dr. Josh believes in and what he has to offer. I immediately scheduled a consultation!

I’m pretty sure the day we stepped in the door it became our second home!!! Dr. Josh was confident he could help my son clear up his ear infections and avoid surgery. He and his team showed compassion! I was skeptical but felt HEARD! I put my faith in Bee Well. With a couple adjustments and playtime in their kidfriendly office, he was ear infection free and hasn’t even gotten an ear infection SINCE!

Does

While ear issues might be a common childhood problem, it’s definitely not normal, and we have a (Parent Hack) for you!

evidence-based research about antibi-

Success Story “It looks like he is going to need tubes in his ear!”

Those dreaded words were spoken to me at an ENT specialist appointment after 3 months of a consecutive double ear infection that antibiotics aren’t

We went from 3 months of infection and pain, scheduling surgery — to HEALTHY, HAPPY, and THRIVING. My mama heart is 100% grateful I found such an amazing Chiropractor and Team who have made such a positive impact in my family. So mama.. if you’ve heard “this is common!” “Most littles need tubes because of their horizontal eustachian tube!” “They’ll grow out of it!” Trust your mama gut! If that path isn’t right for you or your babies — get a second opinion & do your research.

Contributed by Dr. Josh

your family struggle with ear issues this time of the year?

50% of children have been treated with ear infections before the age of two. Often ear infections can be confused for teething due to the increase in fluid. One-third of all ear infections are viral, and the distinction cannot be made upon examination. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the watch-and-wait approach, because the

Contributed by Daniel N. Russell

A main problem with the proposed Knik Arm Bridge, crossing Knik Arm of Cook Inlet, is that tolls would need to be so high that too few people would choose to take the bridge and pay the toll. This would force the toll to be even higher, so even fewer drivers would pay and so on. So then, it would never yield enough money. Charles Wohlforth stated in Anchorage Daily News (Opinion section), on 9/12/2016, “State spent 10 years and more than $100 million ... on administrative costs and studies” (on Knik Arm Bridge). In June, Gov. Bill Walker killed

the project. Let’s revive this worthy project, and not allow all of that money to be wasted and lost forever!

I propose that 2 sources of revenue be added to the bridge project to reduce tolls, so enough people would take the bridge and pay the toll. A main bridge support should include a 500 foot tower with topside rotating restaurant, and should include attachment points placed on the tower above the restaurant for broadcast antennae. These additional tenants would provide additional revenues needed to pay for the Knik Arm Bridge.

Another problem is that conventional steel/concrete supports would sink in our bottomless silt and gravel moraine, especially during strong earthquakes. We should follow nature, as taught by Lao Tsu in Tao Te Ching, instead of fighting against it. We should substitute open-mesh carbon fiber hollow cones, instead of steel, to reinforce concrete. We should add quicklime (CaO), as the Romans did, to make concrete that heals itself and lasts for thousands of years even in our salt water, freeze-thaw conditions.

(See:https://arstechnica.com/science/2023/01/ancient-roman-concretecould-self-heal-thanks-to-hot-mixingwith-quicklime/ ).

I refer you to why bamboo is the fast-

est growing tree. Bamboo trees build minimum weight hollow tubes to make the walls of their hollow stems with minimum raw materials to support tall structures with wide root bases. I have been awarded 2 US Patents for “Fractal Tube Reinforcement” US Pat. 5928450, and 5707724, introducing the new field of fractal tube microengineering. My patents are on the public domain, so they are free for all to use. Engineers and interested parties may read my patents and consult with me at dnrussellms@ yahoo.com to help make this bridge and other challenging structures feasible.

The author, Daniel N. Russell is a Physics Consultant and formerly, Term-Professor, Physics Dept., University of Alaska.

In this series of stories about Great Americans that have not only influenced me in the past, but also many others as a result of their life’s work, two of these have been naturalists. For my last and final Great American in this series, I want to add one more, Edwin Way Teale.

In the early 1970’s in Upstate New York, after buying a 30 acre remnant of what was originally a 200 acre century old family dairy farm, I found I was looking for reading material related to growing and nature rather than fiction for relaxation! Shortly afterward a book came into my possession, “North With The Spring: A Naturalist’s Record of a 17,000 Mile Journey with the North American Spring” first published in 1951, that started my adventures with author Edwin Way Teale.

In this book naturalist and photographer Teale and his wife Nellie embarked on a 17,000 mile quest to “chase” the spring on the North American continent starting at the tip of Florida recording and photographing nature’s wonders during spring as they observed them on their way north through all the eastern states to the tip of Maine.

His descriptive, yet down to earth style as he described these spring events and their historic roots, helped me appreci-

ate the nature that existed on my own farm, and encouraged me to seek more of his writings.

Over the next twenty years the couple made three more such trips around the United States during the summer, fall and winter seasons traveling over 100,000 miles to write and publish three more books.

First “Autumn Across America (1956)”, covered a northern journey from Cape Cod on the Atlantic coast to Point Reyes on the Pacific, visiting sites from the Great Lake region to Louis & Clark territory on their way to the west coast to chase significant fall events.

Next was “Journey Into Summer (1960)”, that began in Franconia Notch in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, in the same spot he and his wife ended their spring journey 10 years earlier. From there they skirted the northern edge of New York and spent a great deal of time in the Great Lakes region and then moved on winding north to south through the Great Plains before spending the final few weeks in Colorado.

Finally “Wandering Through Winter (1965)” which reversed direction and began this journey on the coast of Southern California, and finished on the northernmost coast of Maine, traveling mostly a southern route until they reach

In all his writing he had a gift for keeping the reader fascinated. For instance his account of their June trip to Kelleys Island in Lake Erie just north of Sandusky, Ohio in time to see the remarkable spectacle of one of the world’s most dense hatching of Mayflies in “Journey Into Summer” in the chapter “Mayfly Island” stands in my mind as one of the most vivid descriptions of huge clouds of millions of insects I have ever read!

Together these four books written almost seven decades ago, cover and document nature’s seasonal changes over much of the United States. Filled with Teale’s poetic and yet accurate descriptions of natural seasonal phenomena in each area with his skillful photographs, they have become classics in the lexicon of nature and conservation literature. They also have provided a wide range of snapshots of natural environments across the United States back in the 1950’s and 1960’s that can be compared with those places today to see how the effects of man’s development over the years since have had on local wildlife.

Over his lifetime he wrote over 30 books and wrote many articles. Among the

many honors he received over his prolific writing career, in 1966 he became the first naturalist to win a Pulitzer Prize for non-fiction for “Wandering Through Winter’’. In 1978, his last work, “A Walk through the Year” summarized a year with his wife Nellie at their Trail Wood farm, highlighting the memorable experiences they shared. On October 18, 1980, Teale died of prostate cancer at the age of 81.

“Trail Wood” in Connecticut where he and Nellie spent their final years was named the Edwin Way Teale Memorial Sanctuary in 1981 and became the steward of the Connecticut Audubon Society. Nellie lived there until her death in 1993.

To me, besides expressing the wonder of nature, he was a champion of conservation in his writings, keeping a balance between promoting a healthy “wild” world, but also a healthy one for man.

Unlike some of his counterparts, he never became political even though I didn’t agree with some of his causes toward the end of his career. However, his artful and heartfelt way of expressing the wonder of the natural world spoke for itself. You don’t have to have everyone agree with everything you say or do to still be a great writer and a Great American!

Contributed By Doug Ferguson

Washington, D.C. where they traveled up the Eastern Seaboard and finished on the coast of Maine.

ACCESSIBILITY & MOBILITY

101 Mobility ........ 521-7101

ANTIQUES & VINTAGE

The Estate Sale ........ 357-7050

APPAREL & CLOTHING

All Seasons Clothing Co. ........ 357-0123

ART & CRAFTS

The Gallery ........ 745-1420

AUTO REPAIR

Fairview Loop Automotive .. 887-6137

BOOKSTORE

Black Birch Books ...... 373-2677

Fireside Books ........ 745-2665

CANNABIS RETAILER

Matanuska Cannabis Co. ...... 745-4211

COFFEE & CAFÉ

Alaska Artisan Coffee ........ 745-5543

Gathering Grounds Cafe ........ 376-4404

Vagabond Blues……..745-2233

EDUCATION

Gille Learning Center ..... 357-1100

Learning Essentials ........ 357-3990

EPOXY SUPPLY & INSTALL

Alaska Resin Supply ........ 671-9900

FOOTWEAR

Northern Comfort Shoes ........ 376-5403

HOME DÉCOR

Peak Boutique ........ 746-3320

The Wagon Wheel ........ 671-0189

MUSIC LESSONS

Wood & Wire Guitars .... 745-7457

ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS

www.alaskamarketplace.com www.gunsalaska.com

PRINT SERVICES

L&B Color Printing ........ 376-2081

REPAIR & RESTORATION

Alaska Resin Supply ........ 671-9900

Comtronics ........ 373-2669

S&S Drilling ...... 746-0225

Steve’s Toyostove Repair ..... 376-9276

The Powdercoat Shop .... 841-1300

Wood & Wire Guitars .... 745-7457

RESTAURANTS

Locals Pub & Pizzaria ........ 357-3100

Mekong Thai Cuisine ........ 373-7690

SNOW REMOVAL SERVICES Mr. Plow ........ 521-2376

SPECIALTY GIFTS

Alaska Midnite Scents ........ 357-7364

Non-Essentials ........ 745-2258

The Wagon Wheel ........ 671-0189

TAXI & TRANSPORTATION Mr. Taxi ........ 707-6011

THRIFT SHOPS

Steam Driven Boutique ........ 376-4404

Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Stores ........ 376-5708

TOYS

Just Imagine Toys ........ 357-1543

Learning Essentials .......... 357-3990

Every December, the governor of Alaska is required to release a budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year.

In this upcoming legislative session (in 2023), policymakers will be enacting the FY 2024 state budget.

Released on December 15, 2022, the Governor’s FY 2024 budget proposal comes in at a total of $11.36 billion, with $6.52 billion of that coming from state funds (not included here is the ERA draw for the Permanent Fund Dividend payment to citizens).

In comparison, the FY 2023 enacted budget plus supplemental spending is currently sitting at $13.45 billion, with $7.41 billion coming from state funds.

Contributed by Mike Coons, President of CCAK

Concerned Conservatives of Alaska (CCAK) is up and running. Our last meeting on 17 December had a full agenda. We finalized our Bylaws then we had Ron Johnson, District 2 Chair for the Alaska Republican Party (ARP), Senators Shelley Hughes and Mike Shower and Representative David Eastman make presentations.

Although CCAK is not an exclusively Republican organization, conservative values are found in the ARP Platform throughout. We welcome all who have conservative values, be they non-affiliated, Alaska Independent Party (AIP) and of course Republicans. As I have said in the past, Blue Dog Democrats, who share conservative values of freedom, liberty, standing for our Republic and who are seriously considering leaving the Democrat Party, like Ronald Reagan and now Tulsi Gabbard have, are welcome as well.

A large amount of the discussion was on the results of this election. Specifically the State Senate. How is that even though 65% of voters voted for Republicans and the values of the Republican Party, the left of center or as we call them RINO Senators combined with the Democrats vs maintaining a Republican Majority in the Senate. This has now caused three of the strongest conservatives in the Senate, Senators Shelley Hughes, Mike Shower and Rob Myers to be put in a situation, that to stand for all their constituents who value our Republic, they are now in a 3 person minority. Senator Hughes, Shower and Myers reached out to Senators Bert Stedman, Gary Stevens, Click Bishop, Cathy Giessel with a solid plan to maintain a Republican Majority in the Senate. What is most important to state here is that not one of the above or others responded back. It was a very loud silence! In point of fact, along with that silence, the above and others went on personal attacks with vicious

Alaska Policy Forum is encouraged by the almost $1 billion decrease in state funds appropriations between FY 2023 and FY 2024. However, the proposed budget draws from both the Constitutional Budget Reserve ($245 million) and the Statutory Budget Reserve ($20 million), which are Alaska’s savings accounts, often referred to as “rainy day funds.”

Drawing down those accounts should only occur during truly “rainy days,” and while Alaska’s economy is not strong right now, the state has certainly seen “rainier days.” To have a lasting and consequential impact on the size and scope of state government so that it does not compete with the private sector, hinder free enterprise, or

burden residents, reductions must be made to areas of the government that have grown too large.

We encourage policymakers heading to Juneau next month to approach the budget process with a mindset of needs versus wants. Due to the low revenue forecast for the upcoming year, it will be absolutely essential for policymakers to demonstrate fiscal responsibility by cutting the budget.

The Governor’s FY 2024 budget is headed in the right direction.

Quinn Townsend is the Policy Manager at Alaska Policy Forum with an M.S. in Resource Economics and Management from West Virginia University.

lies that are provable! There was a lively back and forth on what has happened and how Shelley, Mike and Rob will work to advance legislation or just as importantly try to block future legislation on things such as: (Income Taxes, Eliminating the PFD, Increased Spending, etc.)

The bottom line is that they will be opposing legislation, as just stated, from a policy standpoint. Those RINO’s, who push for such legislation, will be called out on what they are supporting, not as they have done on a personal attack aspect. Will people go against those RINO’s, you bet we will. Focusing on their policy and their actions and comments. Will Bert, Click, Cathy and many others we will stand against take that as personal attacks? Of course they will, but they are the ones pushing for bad policy for personal reasons and gains. What was asked to the membership was to stand for conservative values, to be effective in any and all communications and most importantly, to call, write and testify in committee hearings, support and oppose that legislation being brought forward, in a positive manner!

There was also a lengthy dialogue as to the direction of the ARP, specifically the vote by the State Central Committee (SCC) to end the censure of Senator Lisa Murkowski and Rep and now Senator elect Kelley Merrick. The bottom line as stated by Ron Johnson was that the censure against a sitting US Senator who has millions of dollars had no real effect. Kelley Merrick used that as a badge of honor. Yes, voters are encouraged to continue to voice our disdain of these two’s actions and of course to support others against them in 2024! We are going to work hard to try and repeal Rank Choice Voting (RCV). RCV will still be in effect in the 2024 races. We must reevaluate how we effectively vote for conservatives in both the House and Senate as well as remove those RINOs that have thumbed their noses at the voters! This

means being involved at the Republican District meetings, planning to be a delegate in the coming ARP Convention and of course being an active member of CCAK.

We ended with Representative David Eastman, his views on the House, and of course his court battle, which I am so glad to report he has won! At this time the make-up of the House is up in the air and it is very possible that like two years ago, the House may not be decided on who is the Majority for an unknown period of time. As was pointed out, Alaska is very different from all the Lower 48 Legislatures. If the elected legislators are even a majority by one, that party is the Majority. The Democrats and Republicans stand with their fellow Democrats or Republicans. Our Legislators have put fingers in the wind and flipped to the other party which has harmed our State! This is another reason why the use of RINOs is even more prolific in use and why nonaffiliated voters do not join the ARP.

Our next meeting will be January 21st at 11 AM, again at the Real Life Church in Palmer. Since this meeting we have gained another location to meet at, the Chugiak Senior Center. Thus the February meeting will be there, again, at 11 AM. So please put on your calendars if you are interested in joining or coming and being part of future CCAK meetings every third Saturday at 11 AM to about 1:30 PM, alternating between Real Life Church, Palmer and Chugiak Senior Center North Birchwood Loop exit.

The January meeting will have as guest speaker Ron Yundt, discussing repeal of RCV and other potential ballot measures his organization is looking at and supporting. After the guest speaker, I will be discussing a section out of the State of Alaska Constitution and related ARP Platform. This is part of the education within our Mission Statement. Hope to see many more people in January.

I wish you all a Happy New Year!

In 2020, Alaska voted to replace our election system with something called ranked-choice voting. In 2022, almost instantly after our first election under this system, a group called Alaskans for Honest Elections began work on a petition to remove this system and restore Alaska’s previous system of party primaries.

You should sign this petition. To understand why, let’s take a look at the recent history of ranked-choice voting in the US. It’s easy. Just follow the money – straight to wealthy radical donors using it to protect their status quo from the will of the people.

Using Ballotpedia and InfluenceWatch, I was able to find that the nominal prime mover behind the initiative was Alaskans for Better Elections, but they function mostly as a conduit for outof-state non-governmental organizations. These are organizations, usually non-profit, that large-scale donors can use to hide their influence – in other words, the infrastructure of dark money. Alaskans for Better Elections itself is also riddled with extreme leftists, along with at least one Murkowski connection.

Some of the outside influences which

supported Alaskans for Better Elections or the ballot measure directly are themselves worth looking into. For example, the Action Now Initiative, a supporter of Alaska’s RCV measure and a contributor to Alaskans for Better Elections, was founded by former Enron executive John Arnold with his wife Laura. You really couldn’t make this stuff up. According to InfluenceWatch, they have funded many other organizations that support RCV and Alaskans for Better Elections.

FairVote, a beneficiary of Action Now Initiative and a supporter of Alaska’s RCV ballot measure, is one of the largest promoters of RCV nationally and has received funding from multiple George Soros and Pierre Omidyar foundations. Many other big-name far-left donors can be found as well, including the heavy-hitting Tides Foundation, which operates openly as a pass-through – its founder once stated, “Anonymity is very important to most of the people we work with.”

George Soros, for those not familiar, is a billionaire financier who mixes radical leftism with shameless profiteering on a very high level. On his investing, he has said, “As an anonymous participant in financial markets, I never had to weigh the social consequences of my actions... I felt justified in ignoring

them on the grounds that I was playing by the rules.” He also once told a reporter, “It is a sort of disease when you consider yourself some kind of god, the creator of everything, but I feel comfortable about it now since I began to live it out.” Pierre Omidyar, likewise, funds the far left with the proceeds from his own capitalist ventures – he is the founder of eBay and became a billionaire when it went public.

Represent.Us is one of the more interesting organizations to support RCV in Alaska. Several far-left celebrities work closely with this organization, and among nine important members mentioned on InfluenceWatch, you will find two entertainers, one financial advisor, a UC Berkeley big shot, a campaign finance reform activist, and four former power players in Big Tech or Big Tech-adjacent spaces. Two of the latter hypocritically participate in the same kind of major political funding that the organization criticizes.

Another supporter of Alaska’s RCV proposition was Democracy for America, a Howard Dean-founded PAC that supported the farthest-out of far leftists. Unfortunately, though the PAC itself ran out of money (and provided more unintentional comedy in the

Contributed by Quinn Townsend

Contributed by Chuck Campbell

process as its CEO attended both “leadership training paid for by the organization and a personal multi-day sommelier education course” while telling staff that the foundation was going down), a sister organization is still operational and plans to continue pushing RCV.

Come to think of it, why are all these national interests, based in Texas, Massachusetts, Maryland, and others, so interested in our far-off, low-population state? Do they really care about us that much?

Getting dark money out of Alaska, my foot. Alaska’s ranked-choice fiasco is entirely a product of dark money – and, as Project Veritas discovered, of Murkowski machinations.

Lisa Murkowski is no stranger to cynical politics. In 2010, for example, she won as an “independent write-in” candidate after losing the Republican primary. This was at least partially accomplished by combining Republicans who still voted on name recognition (or fell for the mainstream-media narratives that were taking shape even then) with Democrats who saw Murkowski as being both on their side and more likely to win than

COMMUNITY

the official Democrat. In 2020, however, after many of her stances (including support for abortion, Trump’s second partisan impeachment, and the antidevelopment Interior Secretary Deb Haaland) angered the base, her staff began to push RCV. It would ensure she couldn’t be primaried and make her strategy of “be the losing side’s backup plan” a surefire path to victory. Emma Ashlock, one of her campaign coordinators, was caught saying so on Project Veritas’ undercover camera.

In terms of results, RCV delivered – for the dark-money donors and cynical operatives who supported it. The final results of the November 8 election weren’t certified until November 30, and once they were, they were a horror show. Murkowski’s strategy of coasting on second-choice votes from the Democrat had worked perfectly, while over in the house, Peltola had overcome the dueling Republicans Begich and Palin.

This highlights another problem with ranked-choice voting. Due to the nature of open primaries and RCV, it’s difficult to even tell how or why the results ended up the way they did. How many Democrats ranked Murkowski first because they knew their candidate couldn’t win? How many Begich

supporters ranked Peltola (or threw their votes away) out of induced spite for Palin? We’ll never know. This opacity makes it impossible to accurately read the political leanings of a population, but very easy for the guardians of approved opinion to say the people wanted their policies.

I suppose it could have been worse. It could have been like the 2010 Oakland, California mayoral race, which required nine rounds of counting to select a winner who had received 25,000 fewer first-choice votes than the first-round leader.

The worst part is, the ballot measure which gave us RCV was only allowed in the first place because of judicial activism. Alaska Statute 14.45.045 clearly states, in reference to initiatives, “the bill shall be confined to one subject” – not one “umbrella”. 2020’s Ballot Measure 2 violated the plain meaning of this law by containing three provisions: rankedchoice voting, open primaries, and new campaign-contribution disclosure requirements. I shouldn’t have to point out that there is a wide gulf between campaign finance laws and election procedures.

This violation of the law enabled the

measure to be packaged deceptively and was integral to its eventual passage. Ballot Measure 2 was sold to the public on its campaign-finance provisions, not on its convoluted, difficult-to-sell election redesign. If the promoters of this measure had been forced to follow the law and split Ballot Measure 2, the campaign-finance part of it would likely still have passed, but the imposition of ranked-choice voting, which was the true purpose of the measure, would have had a much tougher fight.

Ranked-choice voting, a pure product of outside interests and only able to proceed because of judicial activism, was and is a mistake. Much like “management by consensus”, it’s built to deliver results that satisfy no one – and that’s when it isn’t being abused by schemers who speak out of both sides of their mouths.

Alaskans for Better Elections is still out there, trying to make RCV sound like an improvement over the previous system. They know they could still lose – so show them how easily.

Let’s help Alaskans for Honest Elections put our state back in the control group of this failing experiment.

This winter, heavy snowfalls arrived, then strong winds moved it around and created concrete-like surfaces! Moving the heavy snow helped me build up muscles. (Luckily, my strong husband moved most of it.) Here are some tips to remove the snow from your driveway.

Shovels that are flat and wide work for moving light snow out of the way. ThisOldHouse.com recommends steel and aluminum blades are lightweight, but strong and sharp, so easily scrape packed-on snow or ice. However, they can scratch wooden or stone surfaces. Standard shovels with a plastic blade and a handle made of wood, plastic or metal are used to lift snow and toss it out of the way. It may be a better option for wood or stone surfaces.

To shovel the snow safely, National Safety Council, nsc.org, recommends to Stretch out before you begin. Shovel slowly. Do not shovel after eating or while smoking. Push the snow rather than lifting it. If lifting, use a small shovel or only partially fill the shovel.

Lift with your legs, not your back. Stop before the point of exhaustion! Know the signs of a heart attack. Stop immediately and call 911 if experience any of them. Every minute counts!! “Bend your knees and lift with your legs. Grip near the shovel blade to keep it close to you when lifting the snow to reduce strain on your back. Work different muscles by switching between a righthanded and left-handed stance. The scoop doesn’t need to be full, even if you have a high-capacity shovel blade.” states HomeDepot.com.

Plan to dress for winter weather; avoid loose hanging clothes such as scarves, jewelry or baggy pants and jackets. These can be in the way when shoveling and get stuck in the rotating parts of snow machine.

Wear safety glasses, gloves and footwear that can handle cold and slippery surfaces. If snow blower is loud, wear ear plugs to protect your hearing.

Plan where to pile the snow on your property. Be respectful of your neighbors when shoveling snow, and don’t

pile snow on their property. Don’t throw snow into the street, either — it creates a driving hazard. When plows come through it will be pushed back in front of driveways and cars parked on the street.

Check the snow blower and other equipment you use. Review your owner’s manual for safe handling procedures. If it cannot be found, look it up online.

Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, www.opei.org, recommends to:

- Check your equipment. The snow thrower should be completely powered off when you are checking it over. Adjust any cables. Check the auger. Put your equipment where you can get to it easily.

- Fill up the fuel tank outside before you start the engine and while the engine is cold. Never add fuel to a running or hot engine.

- Store your fuel safely and out of the reach of children. Place fuel in a fuel container and label it with the date purchased and the ethanol content of the fuel. Fuel that is more than 30 days old can cause operating problems.

- Tidy the area you plan to clear with your equipment. Snow can sometimes hide objects. Doormats, balls, toys, wires, and other debris should be removed from the areas you intend to clear. When run over by a snow thrower, these objects may harm the machine or people.

- OPERATE YOUR EQUIPMENT SAFELY Never put your hands inside the auger or chute. Use a clean out tool (or stick) to unclog snow or debris from your snow thrower.

- Turn OFF your snow thrower if you need to remove debris or unclog snow. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop before clearing any clogs or debris.

- Only use your snow thrower with good visibility or light. Operating the machine in the dark or when it is raining/snowing can lead to risks such as slippery conditions, clogging of the machine, or reduced visibility of oncoming objects.

- Aim your snow blower with care, AWAY from people or cars. Do not allow anyone to stand in front of your snow blower. Keep children or pets away from your snow thrower when it is operating; preferably they are inside your house. Use extreme caution on slopes and

hills and when changing directions on slopes. Do not attempt to clear steep slopes.

- Know where your cord is. If you have an electric powered snow thrower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times. Avoid tripping. Do not run over the power cord.

To reduce slipping on icy surfaces are spread sand across it or deice. Instead of sandbox sand spread out kitty litter, saw dust or wood ash (without any nails in it). The most used deicing option is rock salt. While generally the least expensive deicing product, sodium chloride doesn’t work well in temperatures below 15 degrees. It can leach into the

soil, damaging lawn, eroding concrete, and cause animals to get sick.

Another deicer is calcium chloride. It works well at temperatures below zero and is considered less harmful to vegetation. However, it can leave behind a slippery residue that can be harmful to carpet, tile, shoes and your pet’s feet. This product can be more expensive than rock salt, but you don’t need to use as much.

A salt-free deicer is calcium magnesium acetate. It is biodegradable so won’t harm the environment and is less corrosive to concrete than salt. For other ways to handle Alaska winter check out dot.alaska.gov/winter-conditions

Julie Cascio, University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service

PETS & COMMUNITY

Contributed by Randi Perlman

[Prologue: This past November, after an injury to my knee as a 13-year-old, I finally had knee replacement surgery. Three days earlier, one of my 13+-year-old dogs had to be put down. Anybody who’s lost a beloved animal friend/member of the family knows how hard that is, and I worried about how it would affect his twin brother after spending every day of their lives together…]

Something woke me up. I squinted at the clock. It was 5am Christmas morning. An aching throb in my recently replaced knee was the culprit. It was over an hour until my next scheduled dose of pain meds, but lying still in the darkness, I knew it would take another hour beyond that before they kicked in; I had to act sooner.

I sat up, stretched, and fumbled around my nightstand for the small white 5mg Oxycodone tablet, prescribed for temporary use by my surgeon for serious pain post-surgery. After a brief stroll to the bathroom, I remained seated on the

bed’s edge, hoping to coax the tiny but potent Oxy down my throat and all the way to my knee, quickly.

Finally, I sank back on the pillows and drifted off into a narcotic-induced slumber. I felt a presence in the room and reached out my hand. It encountered a soft, warm head with a prominent knob on the top – Tutka was there, right next to the bed! I felt so happy and continued to pet and rub his noble head and sleek body. When he made his way down the hallway I followed him into the living room, and there he was on his dog bed, right next to brother Sage on his bed. I was so overjoyed and excited I started yelling, “Steve, Steve, Tutka’s back, can you see him?, he came back!”.

Then Steve was at the foot of the bed, rousing me gently and asking if I was alright. I was so confused; Where was I? Where was Tutka? Steve told me I had been moaning and yelling in my sleep, which had woken him up. My whole body was shaking, the room was spinning, and my mind refused to awaken.

I remained in place for quite a long

time, sobbing and asking myself what had just happened. It was so real, so SURREAL, so earth shattering and yet so calming. I tried to make sense of the entire experience, and to wonder why my brain had played such a cruel trick on me. I’d woken up to remembered dreams before, but never accompanied by such a powerful life force. I FELT his warm head with the knob on top, and his soft, smooth coat. I KNEW he was there.

It was then I recalled talking to him about a week or so earlier, telling him how much I missed him and hoping that he was OK, asking for some kind of sign that would reassure me. Because of my knee surgery (combined with wild weather events), I had done no holiday shopping of any kind and had not even left my house for several weeks. I viewed healing from surgery as the best gift possible.

Now I know that Tutka’s visit was the MOST PERFECT PRESENCE I could have asked for or received. It still hurts my heart to know that he’s gone, but our spiritual connection will bind us forever, and I am so grateful he reached out to tell me that. May he rest, play, and love, in peace.

[Epilogue: As I continue to heal from my surgery, Steve and I are showering Sage with as much love and attention as possible. Along with extra helpings of his favorite treats, he (along with both of us) is slowly adjusting to life without his brother. We all feel comforted and relieved to know that Tutka is doing well, and keeping in touch…]

Contributed by Toni Riley

Alaska Pacific University has partnered with Yuncarista and collaborated with several Mat-Su Valley healthcare providers including Pioneer Home of Palmer, Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, Maxim Healthcare, Primrose Retirement Community and Maple Springs of Palmer and Wasilla, to expand its Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program. The program aims to deliver outstanding nursing education focused on cultural safety and clinical excellence for rural

and Alaska Native populations.

APU is working to meet a statewide demand for nurses by preparing students to care for others and qualify for licensure. According to Indeed, the average LPN in Alaska makes almost $45 an hour, which is about 30% above the national average. The outlook for this profession is bright, as it is expected to grow faster than the national average. This is the third practical nurse partnership the university has developed in the

state. The first cohort graduated this month out of Bethel, Alaska, in partnership with Yuut Elitnaurviat. A second cohort, developed with Foundation Health Partners in Fairbanks, starts in January. The first cohort in the Mat-Su Valley area will begin in August. The program, delivered over two semesters, includes didactic, active learning of skills, and clinical practice.

Applicants must have prior clinical experience in healthcare. Some positions that qualify as health experience

include medical assistant, health aide, paramedic, EMT, and more. Clinical Nursing Assistants, or CNAs, also qualify. Mat-Su currently offers a CNA training program, and Pioneer Home of Palmer offers a CNA apprenticeship—fueling efforts for the partnership to develop. Interested students must complete an anatomy and physiology class with lab, submit an online application, and have an interview with APU’s nursing faculty. To practice as an LPN, graduates must pass the NCLEX- PN national licensure exam and be licensed by the Alaska Board of Nursing.

Toni Riley Alaska Pacific University 907-564-8300 triley@alaskapacific.edu

PETS & COMMUNITY

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann Clear Creek Cat Rescue

Princess Caroline: I am a 3 year old unique dilute calico with gorgeous blue blue eyes, and am honest to goodness royalty.

I am soft spoken with impeccable manners and quietly rule the household with gentle paws. I like to wander about checking in on all my subjects. I’ll sniff the dogs but don’t prefer their company. I just love sitting on human laps and getting pets. When there’s too much going on, I perch up high, looking down on the comings and goings of daily life, with my perfect little pouty mouth communicating with a squeaky voice to remind you

I’m up there watching. When I am not managing the household, I take long naps up high and only need to open one eye every so often to make sure life is happening as it should be.

I know how to be loved, as I came from a home where I received lots of positive attention and it shows. I trust human hands and lots of snuggles, talking, and being held like a baby will make me feel like a part of your home in no time.

I am happy as a homebody, love to hunt, and am happy in my own territory where I can explore and be very catlike. I love my cats in my family and even nice kids.

I am ready for a happy stable family, and a home where I can go outside and enjoy the natural world and also choose to be inside with all my loved

VALLEY,

907-980-

Winter can be a very dangerous time of year for your dog. There are a variety of weather-related issues that can cause major problems for your canine family members. At a minimum, exposure to the cold, dry air, icy rains, sleet, or snow, can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin. If your home has dry heat, you may want to use a humidifier and towel to dry your pet’s paws, so that they do not cause skin and paw problems.

More seriously, chemicals from ice melting products, when licked off paws can cause intestinal problems that can become quite serious. After going for walks, wash and dry your dog’s feet and stomach to remove ice, salt, and chemicals, checking for cracks or redness between toes. Rub petroleum jelly onto these paw pads to protect these sensitive areas.

Using booties is best, but many dogs refuse to walk when wearing these. We have all seen hilarious videos of dogs “dancing” to remove these uncomfortable things from their feet.

Be mindful of “frozen” lakes which are

not necessarily completely frozen. Many dogs have run out onto a lake that they assume is completely frozen. Often, the areas that are closer to shore are not frozen solid and then these dogs go under or get caught up in log jams.

Shaving your dog down to his skin takes away the protection that a longer coat provides. You can trim his fur to minimize clinging ice balls. Shorthaired dogs can benefit from wearing coats or sweaters.

Bathe your dog only when absolutely necessary during cold weather. Frequent baths can remove essential oils, adding to the discomfort of already dry, flaky skin. Use a moisturizing shampoo if bathing is necessary.

Antifreeze is a lethal poison, so be sure that your dog does not have access to this. Clean up in the vicinity of your vehicle and try to use products that are less harmful – propylene glycol, instead of ethylene glycol.

Do not leave your dog outside in your car, as this is like a refrigerator and holds the cold in, potentially causing dogs to freeze to death.

Dogs use extra energy just trying to stay warm, so you might consider increasing the amount of food you provide to them.

Give your dog a dry, warm place to sleep inside your home, away from drafts. Offer him a warm blanket or cushion. Some people are convinced that dogs are meant to live outside; nothing could be further from the truth. If it is too cold outside for you, it is too cold for your dog. KEEP HIM INSIDE. Dogs are very social animals and they thrive when they are treated as family members.

Residing in Southcentral Alaska, you already understand how truly fortunate you are to be living at the epicenter of the country’s largest outdoor playground. The Mat-Su Outdoorsman Show is your first opportunity every year to meet great local businesses offering products, services, and information guaranteed to help you get the most out of your Alaska experience.

You’ll find fantastic deals from the vendors you already know and love, and in 2023, we are welcoming dozens of brand-new vendors to the Show! The Menard Center will be packed with every Alaska outdoor thing you need, including ATVs, boats, campers, RVs, toy haulers, fishing charters, artwork, adventure trips, outdoor equipment, raffles, drawings, sporting goods, big boy toys, and informational seminars presented on a wide variety of subjects by Alaska’s

outdoor experts. And don’t forget about the food truck smorgasbord extravaganza!

If you are a local business owner, consider the benefits of exhibiting at the Mat-Su Outdoorsman Show! Folks come to the show because they want to find out how to get the most out of their Alaska outdoor experience. They want to know how your product or service can help them fulfil their Alaska dreams. These visitors are real people. Thousands of them, and they are right there in front of you – faceto-face and in person. They’re ready to learn and buy, and chances are you have what they need.

Winter will be over before you know it. Save the date and be prepared to embrace Alaska’s amazing outdoor opportunities by visiting the Mat-Su Outdoorsman Show at Wasilla’s Menard Sports & Events Center on March 24th-26th! Information can be found at: www.matsuevents.com

ones. I am a sweet princess ready to put down roots and devote myself to my family forever. Please call

8898 if you’d like to meet me!

Contributed by Angie Lewis

Angie Lewis – Alaska Animal Advocates Palmer

Contributed by Matt Rowley

The Human Garden Experience

Drug Addiction

Criminal Convictions

Human Trafficking Victim

Sexual Assualt Victim Military PTSD

COMMUNITY

This 5000 square foot “construction thrift store” has an impressive inventory of building-related materials and products, all collected through donations from Valley residents and businesses. Our mission is to keep useful building materials and supplies out of the landfill.

MVR aims to make the Valley a better place; for you, for our neighbors, for the businesses here and for the economy.

We want to redesign our waste stream, bolster our building materials market, inspire creativity and motivation in our neighbors and save people money!

We need help. One person has run the store since the beginning, since his garage. There have been a few volunteers come and go, but only two for more than a day and only one right now; for two hours a week. The big picture for the store involves volunteer help, volunteers that care about the mission, the mission to keep useful building supplies out of the landfill and available to you and your neighbors.

MVR needs volunteers that come back regularly and help things progress with the store.

The store is just the beginning of the plan. The vision for the expansion and evolution of MVR includes a pickup service, a deconstruction crew, workshops, fix-it clinics, a repurpose department, a bicycle department and more…

Sounds cool doesn’t it? It can’t happen without volunteer help.

Temporary help like community service, post-incarceration help or other indentured service is good, but with the training and turnover involved it isn’t a viable solution to get MVR growing. With help that is more invested and interested the trajectory of MVR changes. We can start to develop these other programs and ideas, we can increase store hours, except more donations and, as the support structure strengthens, we can offer job training and internship opportunities.

If you want to help keep MVR going and growing please email valleyrebuild@ gmail.com or stop by the store Wednesday-Friday 11-5 and Saturday 12-5 to chat about it.

Thank you for your support, Tim, Founder/President/Manager Matsu Valley Rebuild 567 South Denali Street, Wasilla matsuvalleyrebuild.com Facebook/Instagram

Contributed by Tim Mat-Su Valley Rebuild

Matsu Valley Rebuild is a non-profit used and surplus building materials store in Wasilla.

Matsu Valley Rebuild began in October of 2018 in one man’s garage and has been growing ever since. There are no owners and no shareholders, Matsu Valley Rebuild is overseen by a board of directors and has one employee with a set wage. The store is doing okay financially, but it is not a gold mine and not sustainable as is.