The People's Paper August 2016 by The Peoples Paper

MID-AUG THROUGH MID-SEPT 2016

The Alaska State Fair is

READ MORE ON PAGE 6

HEALTH & WELLNESS Contributed by Dori Cranmore, RN

medicinal.

This sometimes ‘pesty’ weed growing in our gardens and lawn is actually edible and

Chickweed got its name because it’s a favorite food for chickens and other small birds. It is very nutritious for us as well, high in vitamins and minerals and can be added to salads or cooked as a pot herb, tasting a bit like spinach.

its well known effects as an herbal skin healer. Chickweed is often recommended for treating abscesses, boils, eczema, psoriasis, skin ulcers, rashes, vaginitis and varicose veins. It can be taken internally and used topically which is proven useful for rashes, itchiness or other inflammatory skin issues. Using an infusion or tea is useful in dealing with coughs and hoarseness, and is also beneficial in the treatment of kidney complaints.

Unlike other herbs that utilize just a part of the plant, chickweed’s entire plant is used. As a leafy vegetable it is high in chlorophyll, calcium, iron, niacin, selenium, GLA, thiamine, zinc, vitamin c and beta-carotene.

Pouring chickweed tea into a bath is known to help with rheumatic pains. Drinking or taking chickweed internally has been used to relieve constipation as it provides ample amounts of fiber and helps stimulate digestion.

It has been shown to provide antiinflammatory effects, both internally and externally, by stimulating the production of mucosal fluids to cool the inflammation, soothe irritated tissues and promote healing.

A study done in 2012 addressed the use of chickweed for obesity. What they found was that using chickweed may prevent high-fat diet-induced fat storage in adipose tissue by inhibiting the intestinal absorption of dietary fat and carbohydrates.

Chickweed has been called one of nature’s top superfoods for its ability to purify the blood and lymphatic system. These properties are responsible for

HEALTH & WELLNESS PAGE 4

Some ways to use chickweed: Infused Oil - Fill a jar with

fresh chickweed and cover completely with jojoba or olive oil. Steep for fourteen days, shaking every day. Then strain and use on irritated skin rashes and eczema, or add a tablespoon to bath water for eczema sufferers. Infusion - Drink 1 cup (2 teaspoons chickweed per cup of boiling water-do not microwave) three times a day for muscular rheumatism, urinary tract inflammations, or whenever a cleansing and cooling remedy is required. Poultice - Apply fresh, crushed

A lot of times we forget about the importance of our circulation when it comes to our health until we develop symptoms such as raised blood pressure, shortness of breath, fatigue and the dreaded chest pains. Our heart pumps blood through the main arteries, but it relies on the additional power of the autonomous pumping motion of the micro-vessels. It is these very small vessels that reach the most remote parts of our body. About 74% of all blood vessels in our body are micro-vessels, 11.5% are arteries and 14.5% are veins. Arteries mainly carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the various organs and tissues while the veins mainly carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart.

And this is where BEMER medical devices come into play. Altair Chiropractic is implementing BEMER for preventative purposes and as a supplement to other treatments. In sports, it is used to enhance athletic training and to accelerate the regenerative process. BEMER technology is easy to apply and anyone can use it. BEMER enhances general blood flow, the body’s nutrient and oxygen supply, waste disposal, cardiac function, physical fitness, endurance, strength and energy, concentration, mental acuity, stress reduction and relaxation and sleep management.

These micro-vessels are necessary for your well-being. The micro-vessels are where the metabolic exchange takes place. It moves the nutrients into the cells and disposes of the toxic wastes.

Only good, functional circulation ensures proper supply of nutrients and oxygen, as well as proper waste removal within the body. This is fundamental for all metabolic processes. On this basis, it is clear what a critical role the circulatory system plays in our overall health and wellbeing.

Without this micro-vessel track moving, most of our cells would be denied the nutrients required to function. They would drown in their own waste without the blood flow to cleanse them. This is fundamental for all metabolic processes. By these, our circulatory system also distributes

At Altair Chiropractic, we specialize in your overall health and well-being. If you are interested in learning more about the BEMER technology and how it and chiropractic can help you start feeling better today, call Dr. Tara Workman at (907) 357-1818 and schedule your appointment.

It’s best to eat it in small doses and build up to larger amounts over a few days. Chickweed is not recommended during pregnancy. Chickweed is available in liquid extract, dried bulk and capsules at All About Herbs Inc. in Wasilla.

prevent your nerve damage from becoming permanent.

“My sciatica is acting up.”

The vast majority of the time, sciatic pain can be relieved through a combination of therapy, stretches, traction, deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy and chiropractic care.

That’s because driving for long periods of time, carrying heavy loads or having a job that requires you to twist your back are all suspected risk factors that contribute to sciatica. Additionally, growing older, obesity and diabetes can all increase your risk of developing this condition. hormones, immune cells and other signaling molecules.

A sudden large intake of chickweed can promote diarrhea, nausea and vomiting in some.

Contributed by Dr. Rizaldy Ortiz

You’ll probably hear this statement either from another driver or coming out of you own mouth.

Contributed by Dr. Tara Workman

plant on gauze or in a muslin (cheesecloth) bag for skin sores, boils, abscesses, or gout.

Sciatica is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve. The hallmark symptom is pain in the back of the leg and lower back, but there other symptoms that can point to sciatica. Important Sciatica Symptoms To Know: If you’ve been experiencing lower back or leg pain, here are some sciatica symptoms you should know. You feel weakness in your leg along with pain: When the sciatic nerve is pinched, it disrupts the functioning of your leg and can cause weakness. Your pain is just in one leg: In most cases, you’ll only feel sciatica pain in a single leg. Your foot gets caught on the ground when you walk because of numbness: Again, a compromised sciatic nerve can keep your leg and foot from functioning properly. Your pain gets worse after coughing, sneezing or laughing. You find that you’re in more pain at night. You are having difficulty controlling your bowels or bladder: Fortunately, this symptom isn’t common. But if you do experience it, seek medical treatment immediately because you may need surgical intervention to

When the cause is a bulging or herniated disc, decompression traction may be indicated. If the sciatica has produced leg weakness or nerve problems, then you must also address and treat the nerve damage. Dr. Ortiz is a chiropractic physician and a certified medical examiner who provides ethical, fair and friendly DOT CDL physical exams and chiropractic in the Matsu-Valley. Please call Altair Chiropractic at 907-357-1818 to make an appointment.

LOCAL BUSINESS Contributed by Jeanette Gardiner A friend of mine recently shared this picture [below] on her Facebook timeline with a post highlighting the business owner that had surprised and delighted her with this unexpected gift.

now in her business. When new clients do find her, it’s often because of a referral.

know you have a new product you know they’d love (and offer a discount to try it out).

So what can you learn from Korey to help boost referrals to your business, even if remembering the details that are important to your community doesn’t come naturally to you? Or you’re blessed with a very large customer or client base? The following steps will help get you started.

Choose a select group of customers to try and review a new product. Share an article, information or other resource that you know a customer will appreciate or value. Send it electronically, or print it out and mail it with a short handwritten note.

Start by identifying and getting to know your community. Create and more importantly, use a simple system to capture and store information that will help you get to know who is in your community and what’s important to them.

I was so impressed with the handwritten note and gifts that I knew I wanted to meet Korey, the massage therapist behind the photo, and hear more about how she nurtures her community. I define ‘community’ as anyone who can be an advocate for your business – including your customers, clients, prospects, and other business owners to name a few. Today I’m sharing a little bit about Korey and how you too, can find simple ways to nurture your community to help boost your repeat and referral business. As a massage therapist, Korey is a “natural nurturer” so finding ways to show her community she knows what’s important to them comes easily to her. She engages in thoughtful conversations with each of her clients and remembers details of what’s important to them. Like a client’s favorite organic lip balm, for instance. Then she’s mindful to connect with the client, often by text message. But as you can see in the picture, she also uses a more personal approach of mailing a handwritten note. Korey admits that it’s easy for her to remember these details because she doesn’t have a huge client base, which is where she wants to be right

Contributed by Jo Lynn Bozer Why start a business after retirement? One afternoon I noticed a quote by Erma Bombeck that I’ve kept on my wall for years and now hangs in my shop. “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, I used everything you gave me.” I don’t know why, but at that very moment a spark was ignited and I realized I still had plenty of unused talent in me and I was not done yet. With the encouragement of family and friends, I decided it was time to

LOCAL BUSINESS / COMMUNITY PAGE 5

Listen to your community. Once your system of capturing and storing information is in place, here comes the important part – listen to them. What questions are they asking? What are you hearing in conversations (offline and online)? What problems are they experiencing that your business can solve? And if your business doesn’t have the solution, what business can you refer them to that does? Get personal with your community. Korey understands and values the importance of making personal connections with her clients by taking time to handwrite a quick note. But what if you’re blessed with a large customer base? You likely have a smaller group of super loyal customers that would love to hear from you in a more personal way, such as a note or card in the mail. Identify those super loyal customers, and create and implement a plan for personally connecting with them on a regular basis. Surprise and delight your community. When you understand what’s important to your community, it’s much easier to know what will surprise and delight them. Keep in mind this doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are a few suggestions to springboard ideas for you: Make a quick phone call, or send a quick text or email to let a customer

toss aside retirement and start living a dream, one I’ve had for years. I wanted my own shop, not just any shop, but one that would include community and one that would welcome you and your time with old fashioned service and values. My friends and family have spent a lifetime telling me I have a knack for always finding that perfect gift, so choosing a gift shop just made sense. Simply Gifted was born and offers custom gift baskets and whimsical gifts for all occasions, as well as offering handcrafted items designed by local artists. My daughter Renee is a huge part

Feature a “Customer of the Week/ Month” in your e-newsletter, on social media and in your business. Remember that your community is more than the customers who purchase from you. As I was talking with Korey, she mentioned that many of her clients are artists or small business owners themselves, so she always listens for ways that she can help promote them. She takes time to get to know what products or services they offer so that she can send referrals their way. Invest some time to get to know your business neighbors. You can create a formal referral process, but starting out with an informal process is just as valuable and builds rapport. And keep in mind that offering referrals is a value-added service to your community, so listen for opportunities. I want to leave you with a final thought. Don’t overthink this entire process. It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, the more complicated or expensive you think it needs to be, the less likely you will do it all. So here is your action step for today. Take a cue from Korey and just listen to the customers that come through your door (actually or virtually). Who are they? What’s important to them? How can you better serve them? About Jeanette Gardiner Jeanette Gardiner lives in Palmer, Alaska, and is the Owner of SeaStar Strategies LLC where she helps time-strapped small business owners discover the gift of time by streamlining their administrative and marketing systems. Learn more at www.seastarstrategies.com

of this dream and joins me in this venture. We pride ourselves on listening to your needs and then creating a gift that will make you a sensation. We are open now and will have our official grand opening on August 26th in the City Center, 701 S. Knik Goose Bay Rd., Suite D in the same center as Batteries Plus and D’s Tuxedos. Please, come on by, say hello and enjoy a cookie on us. Stay for a minute or stay for a while, we would love to meet you!

ACCOMMODATIONS Sunset View Resort ........ 892-8595 ALL NATURAL BEEF Arctic Alaska Premium ........ 231-7447 APPAREL All Seasons Clothing ........ 357-0123 CW Tack ........ 376-2668 D’s Tuxedo ........ 707-6585 Growing Spurts ........ 376-4404 Mimi’s Closet ........ 376-2661 ART & CRAFTS Stamp Cache ........ 745-4848 The Gallery ........ 745-1420 BOOKSTORE Fireside Books ........ 745-2665 BREWERY Arkose Brewery ........ 746-2337 BUSINESS & MARKETING SeaStar Strategies ........ 745-6127 CAFÉ & COFFEE Alaska Artisan Coffee ........ 745-5543 Espresso Café ........ 376-5282 Gathering Grounds ........ 376-4404 Loose Moose Café ........ 373-3332 CHINESE FOOD/ASIAN FOOD Kings Asian Buffet ........ 357-9977 COOKWARE All I Saw Cookware ........ 376-3177 CREATIVE ENTERTAINMENT Artists Uncorked ........ 982-2675 EDUCATION Learning Essentials ........ 357-3990 FIBER ARTS AK Frayed Knot ........ 521-9276 FLOWERS & GIFTS Charlotte’s Flowers ........ 745-5550 FOOTWEAR Northern Comfort ........ 376-5403 HEALTH & WELLNESS All About Herbs ........ 376-8327 HOME DÉCOR Cover Ups Designs ........ 746-4739 JEWELRY L Forge Jewelry ........ 232-9866

CONTINUES ON PAGE 10

COMMUNITY Seven fun vendors: Check out their booths in the videos on our Facebook, first video and second video, and Sahara Storm bought out their dancers and hula hooping fun. Volunteers like Amber and Ginger, who helped take care of the vendors and dry off the tables for our guest to sit and others I’ll mention below. Together we made it all happen. I was overflowing with gratitude as the day went on and everyone showed up to support the cause. However, I was stressed a few days leading up to our outside event, as the clouds sat covering our valley as far as the eye could see. We also found out that we did not have the proper forms to run two of our three fundraising ideas. Needless to say, I was a bit stressed.

However, that did not stop us. There were 77 prizes from amazing stores that helped us raise over $600 in our balloon pop and Liquid donated the helium, and nearly everyone walked away with a fabulous gift. To increase the fun, Special Events Party Store donated 60 kids balloons and Jessica from The Alaska Shipping picked them up and brought them all the way to Palmer for us in their van. I woke up that morning, looked outside and said, “Rain or shine here we come.” As I left my home and drove down the highway, I could just barely see the sun peeking out of the thick cloud cover and then the clouds parted, and my heart began to sing with praise. I opened my sunroof and pointed up (to Mark driving behind me) knowing that today Mama Earth and God were going

COMMUNITY & POLITICS PAGE 6

to be on our side. As I drove closer and closer to the Palmer Ale House, who generously donated their stage, I was filled with awe to see the clouds part and sun peak through onto the green.

great anticipation! I am even grateful for the pain that moved me to meet you. Otherwise, I would still be spiraling downward. You are a blessing in my life. Thank you for you.”

The concert began, and our amazing community began to show up. As the day continued, people continued to come out and I was blessed many times over to hear stories and hug our guests as they received breakthroughs. Having our amazing team there allowed me to stop and connect with as many people as possible, to see them and encourage them and gift them with ongoing access to our free program brought to them by your generous donations.

Access the program. Donate and help us continue creating free online and personal support for our community and beyond, at www. divinelyyoufoundation.com

Just today (August 7th) I got this email from someone who registered for the course your donations before and at the concert allowed us to give out for free. She said: “I am so grateful for you! These teachings are food for life change, and I look forward to each one with

We had so much fun. I am so grateful for all of your support, prayers, financial donations, time and for simply being there on the green helping us end the cycle of abuse. At times we can’t choose the circumstances of our lives. However, with the right tools and community we can reclaim our power, build others up and step back into the life we were born to live: one of worthiness, peace, confidence and beauty. I am encouraged knowing that this is only the beginning. All because of you!

FAITH Contributed by Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain Annually celebrated on August 7, National Lighthouse Day honors the beacon of light that for hundreds of years, symbolized safety and security for ships and boats at sea. At one time, the beacon of light could be found across almost all of America’s shorelines. A lighthouse is described as a tower, building or any other type of structure that is designed to emit light from a system of lamps and lenses and is used as an aid to navigation for maritime

pilots at sea or on inland waterways. Jesus Christ is the lighthouse for believers in Christ. The chorus to the song, “The Lighthouse” makes this clear.

John 8:12 states, “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

Romans 3:23 states, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:10 states, “As it is written, there is none righteous, no not one.”

Jesus told the believers in Christ that they were the light of the world.

God requires a blood sacrifice to atone for sin. Jesus Christ shed his perfect unstained blood for the payment of mankind’s sin debt.

Oh I thank God for the lighthouse I owe my life to Him King Jesus is the lighthouse Upon the rocks of sin He has shone a light around me That I could clearly see If it wasn’t for the lighthouse Then where would this ship be.

Matthew 4:14-16 states, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

The Bible tells us that Jesus is the light of the world.

We need the light to dispel the darkness of this sin sick world.

John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Have you come to the light of Jesus for the payment of your sin debt? Questions? Let’s talk. 907-715-4001 Chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

POLITICS On October 4th, Vote Yes On The Valley Recreation Bond! Contributed by Scott A. Sterling October 4, 2016 is local Election Day in the Mat-Su Borough. A recreation bond, authorizing $22.16 million in improvements to borough pools, ice rinks and trails, will be on the ballot. Approval will pay for badly needed facility maintenance and improvements to the Wasilla and Palmer pools, the Brett Ice Arena and numerous borough trails. Simply stated, our sizzling growth is straining our aging recreation facilities to the breaking point. If we are to thrive and not merely survive, then we need (as a community) to vote for the bond. For today, let’s look at the pools. Week nights at the Wasilla and Palmer pools are noisy and busy. There are lessons underway for kids of all ages, while parents and grandparents in the bleacher stand keep a watchful eye.

In the diving well, elders tread and bob while gabbing away. In the lanes, the regulars burn through their lap routines. As lesson time winds down, the kids are set free to spend a few gleeful minutes using the diving board. In all, both pools draw across ages and generations to promote water safety, fitness and fun. For the money, the Wasilla and Palmer pools are one of the best family fitness bargains around. Swimming gets the heart pumping. As aerobic fitness improves, so will overall flexibility. For kids, regular swimming helps reduce the risk of childhood obesity and juvenile diabetes. Another benefit is the increase in coordination and synchronization ability, which helps kids do well in other sports as well; such as soccer and basketball. Topping off is the fact that picking up and staying with swimming builds confidence, water safety awareness and motivation to achieve. For parents

seeking healthy, low-impact activities for their kids, swimming is an ideal choice. And if starting out for fitness leads to determination to win an Olympic gold medal someday, then all the better. Standout champion swimmers like Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky got their start in the kiddie pool too. What about aging boomers? Elders are big patrons of the valley’s pools. The good things about swimming are all the more important for folks age 50 and up. Water buoyancy just by itself is a huge plus, since it helps equalize weight and minimizes pain. Working both the upper and lower body allows for aging muscle groups to maintain tone and strength. The stronger the muscles, the better the ability to absorb glucose from the blood. And that helps reduce the occurrence or re-occurrence of diabetes. Add in the heart-healthy benefits of cardiovascular exercise

government. Since I left office nearly a decade ago, the state bureaucracy has tripled in size, all on the republican’s watch and those who claim to be “conservative”. It’s as if democrats have been in charge. Contributed by Vic Kohring Election season is in full swing and the usual array of candidates have come out of the woodwork pledging to practically lasso the moon. Nearly all act virtuous and the next best thing to the Pope himself. Since the valley is largely republican, we’re hearing the typical mantra of “I’m a conservative, so vote for me” filling the airwaves. It’s “I’m for less government intrusion, lower taxes,

choice in education and a stronger private sector” and so on, which sounds nice and appeals to most voters, but in reality is meaningless once the elections are over and the lofty promises fall flat. I’m always willing to give candidates the benefit of the doubt and believe their rhetoric, but my hopes are usually dashed and tempered by a long string of failures on the part of our leaders as little or nothing ever changes. Worse is the fact that we’re going in the opposite direction with a continual increase in the size and reach of

Why do we keep moving toward bigger and more expansive government despite Republicans in control? And why the lack of courage to make fundamental changes and the apparent big yellow stripe down the middle of most politician’s back? I know the reason, having served in the Alaska Legislature for seven terms and observing this phenomenon first-hand. Most are well meaning and believe that the Reagan principle of less government is better for society, but don’t wish to risk their careers by

and you have elders with fewer health problems, fewer health care costs and added longevity. For many of us, hitting the pool is not as stressful as hitting the gym. Whether you are there for lap swim or water therapy, being in the water relaxes the body and calms the mind. You can paddle away for an hour in the deep end and somehow not get irritated when discussing politics with your fellow treaders. Or you can burn a mile’s worth of laps and just feel great. As the late Kurt Vonnegut Jr. noted, “It may be that on land I am just another person, but in the water I am beautiful.” So, whether you’re the valley parent of a child taking swim lessons or an elder headed off for senior swim to work on flexibility, go vote on October 4th and support the recreation improvement bond. You will be doing good by doing well, for all of us.

taking on the enormous bureaucracy. They quickly discover it’s too much trouble and that the government will fight them every step of the way, not to mention the salivating, leftist press machine. Then there’s the special interest groups, many who hire highly paid lobbyists that pressure pols into promising not to cut their pet program. Goring the ox of constituents does not translate into votes or campaign dollars, so it’s far easier to say yes than no. In other words, it’s safer politically to kick back and not be disruptive and draw attention. “Let things slide so I can remain a part of the Good ol’ Boys Club and get reelected,” they say. Besides, the legalized bribery and quid-proquo’s are too tempting.

POLITICS Contributed by Cean Stevens, US Senate Candidate This past weekend, I was blessed to be able to drive through our beautiful state and parts of Canada to have a campaign booth at the Haines Fair. Haines is a breathtaking little town with friendly residents. I was told ahead of time that Haines is a libertarianleaning town. I wasn’t disappointed. A majority of people I spoke with were receptive to our message and appreciated having the candidate there in person.

COMMUNITY & POLITICS PAGE 7

why I believe the NAP (Non-Aggression Principle) should apply to the unborn also. She stared at me for a moment and said “I can’t believe you are putting this on your literature where people can see it.” I asked her if she would rather candidates for office lied and hide what they believed from the voters. She said “Yes, if I don’t agree with it!” I’ve heard some shocking things while running for US Senate, but a voter asking me to lie to the public is the most bizarre.

On the last day of the fair, a lady glanced at me and then headed straight for the booth. “You’re libertarian,” she said. “I am,” I replied.

Voters are so used to being lied to that it’s become the norm. Even main stream media has a politically correct term for it, “disingenuous”. It’s called a lie, folks! Call me old fashioned, but those of us who had our mouths washed out with soap know it’s wrong.

She smiled and said she was as well; then began to look over my position papers, agreeing with each one. When she read my tri-fold, she said “You’re pro-life?” “I am,” I said, then explained

America is in a rapid state of decline and people are looking for a “savior” to instantly fix everything. Unfortunately, they are willing to overlook major flaws in a candidate. The senate is comprised

Contributed by Rep. Wes Keller, District 10 Candidate I, Wes Keller, am honored to be the sitting legislator of District 10 and am seeking re-election. The pursuit of and desire to become a public servant is an honorable part of our constitutional republic. However, I challenge my opponent to do so with extreme care, to not compromise accuracy for a short term gain, to speak honorably. The truth is that I believe I am the best option for my constituents to best protect the interests of Alaskans, and the Alaska Family Council/Alaska Family Action also believes this. The following is a recommendation from them: “This one is a no-brainer. There are 40 members of the State House of Representatives, and not one has worked harder and more effectively to advance conservative principles than Wes Keller. Wes is a soft-spoken and self-deprecating man, but when it comes to supporting pro-life and pro-family policies, he is a rock star. His experience includes nearly 10 years in the State House, and also eight years serving as Chief of Staff for former Senator Fred Dyson, another champion of conservative and Christian values.” “Do you support school choice? Wes Keller sponsored the constitutional amendment (HJR 1) to make school choice possible. Do you support protecting religious liberty? Rep. Keller sponsored the most serious bill to prevent government discrimination against people of faith (HB 325). Do you support stopping Planned Parenthood from indoctrinating public school students? Rep. Keller sponsored a bill (HB 192) to keep them out of our schools.

This attitude is so commonplace, that some high profile people have had enough. The Rev. Franklin Graham, evangelist Billy Graham’s son whom I admire and who prayed at the steps of our state capitol this summer, recently quit the Republican Party out of disgust. Hooray for him. When I was in the legislature, I nearly gave up on the same Republicans and switched to an independent. I’m currently a member of the Alaska Independence Party, having bailed on the Republicans in 2014 even though I remain a Republican at heart. When first elected 22 years ago, it only took

Do you support legislation to rein in liberal, activist judges? Rep. Keller is the only House member who has made serious efforts (HJR 33, HB 200) to reform our out of control judiciary. Are you opposed to abortion? Rep. Keller has sponsored and co-sponsored numerous bills to increase protections for unborn children. Support family values? Rep. Keller sponsored legislation to try and keep pornography out of our public libraries.” Alaska is full of candidates who thump their chest about being pro-life and pro-family, especially during election years, and then go down to Juneau and do absolutely nothing to move the ball down the field on those issues. Wes Keller is that refreshing exception – a man with a strong moral compass and the courage to act on what he believes. Perhaps it goes without saying, but Rep. Keller has returned our candidate survey, and is solidly in alignment with AFA on every single one of our public policy goals. We need to send Wes Keller back to Juneau, so we can keep this savvy and courageous leader working on the issues that matter most. Share this information with friends who live in District 10: Mat-Su Borough (Meadow Lakes & other Wasilla-area precincts, Houston, Willow, Susitna, Trapper Creek and Talkeetna). Don’t be tempted to vote for a candidate based on partial truths, errors or false implications. I believe it is my responsibility to refute some of what is being stated in this campaign season. I invite you to visit the legislative archives and state law to verify these clarifications. All state documentation can be found at http://akleg.gov/index. php I have in fact served as an Alaska State Legislator for nine years.

me a month to realize I was in the midst of a bunch of self-serving pols more interested in their careers than in doing what they knew deep down was right and what they pledged on the campaign trail. The Republican party platform, a good document that promotes less government, a strong private sector and a Christian, conservative philosophy, is largely ignored by these same politicians. I was so troubled by their spinelessness and lack of resolve that I eventually resigned from the House Majority Coalition (an ungodly alliance as it forces you into a covenant that often violates your principles) and formed my

of 57% lawyers and has a 12% approval rating. Should we elect more lawyers? Let’s send someone different, someone who doesn’t want to use congress as a retirement home. This brings me to my point. It’s hard to find a candidate whom you agree with 100%. There are pre-conceived notions regarding every political party, including libertarians. The future of our country and our state hangs in the balance. Please research the candidate you might vote for. I don’t agree lock, stock and barrel with some of my favorite politicians, but I do believe they are good people who are trying to do what’s best. I don’t care what party a politician belongs to. I care about their character and whether or not they are disingenuous. Lying is the grease on a slippery slope to special interests, lobbyists, insider trading and bribery. We need less of the “norm” and more of the “different” which just might turn out to be, not that different from you. I am running for my fifth term. 2008 was my first election cycle. I am not in favor of term-limits for state level legislators. A state representative has a built-in, robust term limit every two years (re-election). I fully support US Congressional term limits and welcome any opportunity to explain this further. My voting decisions are based on who I am in terms of values. It has been liberating and freeing to be true to myself, and thereby represent a majority of my constituents. It is my job to be transparent on voting decisions so that constituents can decide if I do in fact represent them. I do not vote based on party line, but my values align very well with the Republican Party platform. I am prolife, pro-family, pro-small business, and pro-limited government, and I work grounded in the foundational values of American Constitutionalism. It has been an honor to be part of the majority caucus, whose consensus plan is determined each election cycle by the majority caucus of each house. This “consensus plan” is a compromise team to enable budget passage. It is naïve, at best, to vow to not vote for a budget, or to promise to not join either the minority or majority ‘team’ (caucus). The bi-annual hope for conservatives is that Alaskans will send enough strong conservatives to shape the consensus plan, to make the spending cuts we need. We are at a critical time in Alaskan history, and we need effective, experienced conservative legislators representing all Alaskans. The governor made the decision on the PFD veto without the legislature’s approval. It seems to be in a “knee-jerk” reaction to the legislature’s attempt to block revenue measures. Special Session agendas, in this case, were set by the governor. The bills handled were approved, requested and negotiated with the governor. An individual legislator cannot dictate what the governor does, and the governor cannot dictate what the legislature decides.

own caucus with three others. But I paid a steep price when I was “punished” by being stripped of my coveted Finance Committee assignment and having staff reduced which made it more difficult to serve my constituents. Punished for following my conscience. It also ultimately cost me my job as the government targeted me as part of the FBI’s assault in 2006, forcing me to resign. Carefully examine the background of candidates before casting your ballot. Not only should their political philosophy be scrutinized (Don’t fall for a cute face, pretty road signs or clever campaign ads.), but try to identify one’s values and peer into their heart. How honest and ethical are they? Do they have the courage and strength of conviction to stick to their promises?

Bio: Cean has called Alaska her home since 1969. She and her brother were raised by a single mother who at times, worked three jobs to support them. She taught them both that they could be anything they wanted as long as they worked hard enough. She also taught them to hunt and fish at a very early age. After graduating from Wasilla High School, Cean moved back to Anchorage and started two small businesses in 2000. In 2014, Cean ran for State House in Anchorage. She received the highest percentage of any libertarian in the United States running for higher office. She currently lives in Anchorage with her husband Randy, their two mini-dachshunds (Toochie & Poppy), a pug (Soloman) and a gaggle of chickens. Cean loves fishing, camping, gardening, hunting and spending time with her family and friends.

Each legislator must work with the other 59 legislators to come to a collective agreement. Some General Clarifications: Alaskans are increasingly aware that we do indeed have a fiscal crisis and are asking why? How did we get to spending more per capita than any other state? Are we going to have to liquidate or downsize some of our ‘crown jewels assets’? If so, which ones: Education (K-12 and UA)? Social Services (Medicaid, Food Stamps, etc.)? The Ferry system? Obviously, none of these would be beneficial to get rid of completely, so there is give and take in how to encompass the best major reform for the majority of Alaskans. I will fight to keep government limited, cut extra spending and keep what most benefits Alaskans. Constitutionally, it is the Alaska Legislature (not the governor) who carries the responsibility for spending decisions. Spending decisions are a product of legislative consensus in the budget process. The budget process is a product of years and years of legislative rules and laws, and it is a slow process to change. Spending level reductions are directly tied to available revenue (we cannot spend what we do not have), and the willingness of Alaskans to re-elect a majority of conservative spenders. Nothing happens quickly or efficiently in a republic (by design). We must balance the budget before any new taxes – for sure before spending PF earnings. The source of, “All political power is inherent in the people” (Art 1, Section 2). It is the voter’s decision whether they want an experienced legislator or ‘new blood’. I respect this power, and believe it is very, very wrong to intentionally mislead voters to either end. I will respect voter choice even if I believe they have been misled, but am obligated to try to eliminate confusions. Alaska is small, so every constituent has the ability to contact their legislator directly. Your voice or lack of, does define Alaska.

Are they God-fearing with Christian values? And don’t blindly vote for someone simply because they have an “R” after their name or claim to be conservative. Moreover, follow through to see how they perform once elected. Are they only filling space or are they taking a stand by genuinely attempting to limit the effect of government in our lives instead of worrying about risking their careers, paychecks and perks of office? John F. Kennedy’s Pulitzer Prize winning book, Profiles in Courage, is an expose’ of politicians who took a stand, but paid a political price. These are the kind of people we need in office, not the usual do-nothing bench warmers.

POLITICS Contributed by Mike Coons Representative Shelley Hughes is running for the seat vacated by Senator Bill Stoltze. She is absolutely the best choice and I want to tell you why. But before I do, I want to point out some real concerns about her opponents. She has a businessman, Adam Crum, and a retired US Army and political activist, Steve StClair, running against her in the primary. Steve has been an activist and has worked with many legislators to reduce the budget, in conjunction with UFL. UFL budget for the operating budget was for 4.5 billion. The House and Senate passed a 4.3 billion budget, Shelley Hughes worked hard to get that passed. Adam has very little activism and has not submitted any bills, and is supported by Matsu Business Alliance (MSBA) who aligned themselves with Alaska First, a major promoter of the permanent fund rip-off and theft of our PFD. So that said, what is the history of Shelley Hughes? So that said, why else is Shelley Hughes our best choice as state senator? Shelley has a proven record and is extraordinarily effective. She has been in the House for 4 years and during that time she has carried 13 pieces of legislation that have passednone of which grew government, but instead helped remove barriers, promoted opportunities for Alaskans, ensured personal liberties, and reduced costs of government. She’s a bulldog when it comes to getting things done,

POLITICS PAGE 8

and if someone has good conservative legislation to suggest, they’re knocking on her door. Despite some bills receiving more than the normal number of committee assignments due to politics in the legislature, she’s pressed on and been successful. She’s also done a great job gaining bipartisan votes. A point of fact, HCR4 and HJR 14 (the pair of Countermand Amendment resolutions based on Article V of the US Constitution to help restore the balance of power between the state and federal governments) were the only ones nationwide passed that had Democrat votes. Shelley Hughes knows how to work across the aisle toward the common goal of the state and US constitutions.

the effort, with Alaska being the first state in the nation out of the gate to pass the important pair of resolutions, setting the precedent of bipartisan support. I spent four days in Juneau promoting the resolutions. Meetings upon meetings with many legislators and also strategy meetings with Shelley and Bill, as well as with other valley Legislators. By 5pm, my feet were killing me, I was dead tired and Shelley? She was just getting started! She still had committee meetings, meetings with other constituents, meetings with the governor and/or his people, well past 9pm, and then she was on her computer answering emails, studying bills, and preparing for the next day well into the night!

As the National Legislative Director for Citizen Initiatives, I approached Shelley and Bill Stoltze to work to get the Countermand Amendment application to Congress and the Delegate Resolution for the Article V convention rules and amendment language. I found out very rapidly that getting a bill going, even at the ground floor, took a lot of hard work. Shelley kept her door open to me and repeatedly welcomed my involvement. She asked tough questions, looked at the language and most importantly the end result with a hard eye for facts and a realistic outcome, always keeping in mind the big picture: eventual ratification by 38 states, which she knows will require both red and blue states. We worked together to get the legislation introduced and through the committee hearing process. The end result was that it took 2 years of hard work to get the resolutions passed. Shelley and her staff did an exemplary job of spear-heading

She juggled multiple issues and tasks, did her research and was knowledgeable on the many ongoing bills on a wide variety of topics, all while working on the several committees she chaired, co-chaired or was a member of. And she did it all without hesitation, all the while remaining calm, focused, and respectful. I could go on and on about one of the most effective and intelligent stateswomen in the Alaska Legislator. Her opponents have accused of her of being for big government, for being ineffective and for not being transparent. These are desperate accusations and so ridiculously untrue. I’ve shot down the first two accusations above, but let me say something about transparency. Access and transparency go hand in hand. I can’t count the number of times I have written Shelley, called her, left messages for her and each and every one was always met with Shelley Hughes being attentive, responding back with knowledge and

industry millions of dollars a year. The fact is they do know that, they’re just not being honest with you because that loss of revenue affects them too. As more and more smokers reform through vaping and take control of their own health and well-being, the tobacco tax dollars are dropping. The tobacco industry’s market share is being reduced and by 2018, it’s estimated that big tobacco will have lost 80% of its market to vaping.

Vaping is at least 95% safer than smoking tobacco, according to a 2016 Royal College of Physicians Report. There are no carcinogens, no danger of second hand anything and it has a massive sustained success rate for staying off of tobacco.

points for me to consider. All messages always were returned, all e-mails were answered. I know for a fact that many of those email answers were done after her day with the legislature was over, sometimes after midnight! Always our conversations were respectful and considerate and most importantly, Shelley always listened closely and was honest with me, whether or not we perfectly agreed or not. She doesn’t play politics. Her integrity is solid. Serving as a legislator isn’t about being angry and frustrated at the “system.” Campaign promises cannot be made that show a confrontational attitude towards other legislators and whomever the House or Senate leadership is. Big talk and enthusiasm aren’t enough. Saying you’ll stand for the people doesn’t measure up to someone who has faithfully stood for and been accountable to the people. The Legislature consists of 20 senators, all of whom Shelley will work with, do her level best to influence toward conservative values and to firmly push back against those whom would put our state at risk, be it financially or by stripping away our state sovereignty and our rights. We are at a critical crossroads. It takes a newcomer in the legislature about a year to come up to speed. Can we afford that? Do we want our district to lack in representation while a newbie is learning the lay of the land? I don’t think so. Shelley is the only candidate who can hit the ground running on our behalf. It’s crystal clear that Shelley Hughes is the best choice for a number of very important reasons. She is asking us, her employers, to give her a promotion to Alaska State Senator for District F! Shelley Hughes has earned this promotion and the responsibility that goes with it. Choose Hughes for Senator on August 16!

OPINION

Seriously? Contributed by Ann Cross Tobacco is preying on our children? Is that the best that Alaska Tobacco Quit Line, Breathe Free Mat-Su and Alaska Family Services can come up with to convince people that vaping is bad, by implying the flavors are for kids? Aren’t there a number of alcoholic beverages that could be considered to be marketed to children too, by the same standards? Flavors like apple or orange cider, peppermint schnapps or any of the berry & fruit brandies. There are candy flavored vodkas too. Are these intended for children? If they had their facts straight, they’d realize that the tobacco industry wants the vapor industry to go away. The vapor industry is costing the tobacco

Contributed by Paul Johnson When I first saw the ad on the cover of The People’s Paper, I just rolled my eyes. Then, I realized I have a responsibility to my fellow man. For the life of me and the lives of millions of other smokers and former smokers, I cannot understand why non-profit organizations such as Alaska Family Health Services, Breathe Free Mat-Su and the Alaska Tobacco Quit Line would post such an outrageous and deceitful ad, demonizing vaping. Almost everyone has lost friends and loved ones to cancer and other smoking related illnesses. I smoked for over 40 years and was able to quit instantly and completely, thanks to modern vapor devices and the myriad of wonderful flavors available. The patches didn’t work, the gum didn’t work and cold turkey didn’t work. Modern vapor devices and e-liquids did. So why would organizations whose job it is to promote public health and

The pharmaceutical company’s patches, gums and pills that have only about a 3% - 5% sustained success rate, will be worth less as part of a stock portfolio and the donations from big pharma to these organizations will also be greatly reduced. Salaries will be cut, positions will be eliminated and millions of lives will be saved by getting off of tobacco. They aren’t concerned with protecting our children; they’re concerned with what vaping will cost them financially.

help people get off of tobacco, want to frighten people into believing that something that does work is dangerous? The ad is so outrageous, I have to address it. First, let’s look at the hazmat suit. OSHA does require Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in food flavor manufacturing facilities, but not to the extent of the nuke suit pictured. That is a stock photo pulled from shutter stock. Take note that the non-profits or their ad agency chose the most dramatic hazmat photo possible, if you do visit the page. Note also the radioactive material placard, just out of focus, in the background. The manufacture of food and beverage flavorings does not involve the use of radioactive material; a basic respirator and jump suit are all that’s required. The flavors used in e-liquids are the same flavors produced for the food and beverage industry, and are consumed in food and drink every day. The manufacturing process to create those flavorings uses higher temperatures and far higher concentrations than the

The RCP also noted in the same report that vaping is not only a gateway off of tobacco; “Use of NRT among neversmokers is rare at all ages and despite early concerns to the contrary, there is no reported evidence that use of the inhalator or any other NRT product in young people has ever acted as a gateway to smoking”. In other words, if you’ve never smoked or haven’t considered smoking, you’re not likely to “graduate” to smoking because of vaping. Some physician’s opinion to the contrary, here in the U.S. is just that, an opinion and not based in science. On the other hand, the RCP has scientifically studied vaping for nearly 10 years. end user experiences in his or her food, drink or vapor. In short, it’s apples to oranges. Apple and orange are both excellent vapor flavors though! The pretty pink and baby blue e-juice bottle labeled bubble gum is another obvious attempt to imply that the vapor industry is marketing their product to children. That is not the case. As an adult over 50, I enjoy bubble gum, cotton candy, pies, ice creams and many other junk foods. I was unaware that there is an age limit on enjoying delicious things. As a vaper, I can also tell you that the wide variety of delicious flavors has helped curb my junk food consumption, allowing me to shed a few unwanted extra pounds. There are laws already in place to prevent minors from purchasing vapor products; the same laws that apply to tobacco products. This is another not very subliminal message meant to tug at your heartstrings, to protect the children! The question still remains: Why would organizations that are tasked with getting people off of tobacco and protecting/improving public health be so dead set on demonizing a product

I am 100% tobacco free and feeling better than I ever have, thanks to vaping. Millions of others will tell you exactly the same thing. Vaping saves lives. If these organizations’ goal is to get people off of tobacco, they need to support vaping and the vapor industry. Instead of running inaccurate ads to scare and mislead people, they should be placing dollar off coupons for the vape shops they are trying to run out of business. The truth is; getting people off of tobacco will cost those organizations and industries billions in tax dollars, salaries, stock value and donations and that’s what they are really trying to protect “their” money. The largest preventable tragedy in history is taking place right now. Millions of lives are at stake and all for the love of money. Think about it.

that has saved or at the very least extended the life of millions of former tobacco users? Modern vapor products have a much higher success rate than available NRTs. They actually work. Vapor products have been found by the Royal College of Physicians in Great Britain (the same people who were the first to link lung cancer to tobacco smoking) to be at least 95% safer than smoking. It makes no sense, right? Actually cents, as in dollars and cents, is what it boils down to. Billions of dollars in taxes, donations and salaries will evaporate if current smokers discover that modern vapor products do work extremely well as a tobacco harm reduction product and they are at least 95% safer than smoking. Non-vapers need to realize they are being lied to, and many already have educated themselves with truthful information. The big pharmaceutical companies, big tobacco companies, various healthcare industry organizations and various nonprofit organizations either lie or turn a blind eye to the truth in order to protect their status quo. A billion lives are at stake! Please think of your fellow man. Vaping saves lives!

VOTE LOCAL! Shopping Local IS Political

POLITICS Contributed by Bert Verrall Compelled To Run: It is apparent that extreme partisan politics has gotten Alaska into a deep financial mess. It seems just as apparent that these same partisan interests are unwilling or unable to achieve the changes necessary to move our state back to financial solvency. Like most Alaskans, I have serious concerns with the ineffective businessas-usual politics of our legislature and I believe we need greater citizen involvement in the process. That’s why I’m running as an Independent for House District 11. A Citizen’s Credentials: Like most Alaskans, I have a broad range of work

POLITICS PAGE 9

and volunteer experiences. I was a small business owner. I am a member of the general work force and have served in management capacities too. I have been employed as a laborer, a plumber and as a maintenance technician. I worked as a manager with Kenai Supply. Currently I am the Chief Shop Steward at Matanuska Telephone Association. For forty years I have worked in locations all the way from the Aleutian Chain to Prudhoe Bay in Alaska villages, towns and cities along the way. Here at home, I have also been active in an array of community organizations. I have served as president of Mat-Su Softball, Valley Golf Association and Palmer Lions. I’m a booster of youth athletics, serving as umpire in Chief of Palmer Little League and as a ten-year member of the Palmer High School football coaching staff. All of these experiences have been of value and

have informed and proved useful in working constructively with a myriad of kids, parents, co-workers, customers, contractors, labor and management forces and community leaders all with a primary goal of problem resolution and getting a job done. One side of my family arrived in Palmer in 1935 with the colonists and the other side of the family was here to greet them. I’m a fourth generation Alaskan, born in Palmer and graduated from Palmer High School. My wife, Tracy, is a teacher with twenty nine years of service in the classroom. Tracy and I share three children and nine grandchildren. Here Is What We Can Do: I firmly believe that we Alaskans are on the cusp of great change; change that to a large extent, we can control and direct

if we work together. I am ready and willing to serve as your representative in the House and I respectfully ask for your vote on November 8th. And there’s something else: I ask for your continued involvement as we work to sort out the problems and issues confronting our state. Really that’s an involvement that begins now. Please feel free to contact me at bertinthehouse@mtaonline.net or give me a call at 354-3798 to share your thoughts and opinions. Independent, valley born and raised - I’m one of you! Legislative Priority: This is an easy one. Put Alaska first in all matters. Now let’s go to work! More Easy Ones: Of course I strongly support 2nd Amendment Rights and the protection of the permanent fund.

VETERANS We ask one favor of our veterans: hang in there with us. PRESS RELEASE

Dr. Deb is a naturopathic physician, helicopter pilot, best-selling author, and has been treating veterans and first responders in Renova, her Norfolk, Virginia clinic for the past four years. Rick and Jen have been running camps for veterans through Battle Dawgs Racing along with the grueling Iditarod for the past four years. Each had the missing link for the other’s mission of a one-stop-shop healing camp/clinic. Combined, their efforts have assisted more than 150 veterans in making a better transition to life back home.

Many people ask what they can do to give back to our warriors returning from combat. Everyone, including the warrior, is concerned about the high rate of suicides in America, 20 to 40 a day, and half that number from our aging Vietnam veterans. For Deborah Cox Wood PhD, ND and Rick Casillo, Iditarod musher and Jennifer Casillo, helicopter pilot lt. colonel, Alaska Air National Guard, all three of Talkeetna, Alaska, it was a nobrainer to join forces.

Contributed by Major Mike Dryden, AVN USAR Retired Numerous Tricare fee change proposals in the FY 2017 DOD budget are galloping our way. If you are like me, one of the elite group that in the 1960s received an invitation from the local draft board to join the army, these new changes aren’t anything like the deal the military said our retirement benefits would be. We all realize that we all have to do our part in tough budget times. I can’t speak for all retirees, but I wish the hit squad at the DOD would pack up and move to another department. If their efforts are half as productive in the rest of the government as they have been in the defense department, we would never see another budget deficit. However, I’m not going to be over in a corner holding my breath waiting on that to happen. Although, I am still waiting on that red rider lever action bb gun for Christmas. I realize lists and charts are boring, but it’s your money they are taking. So, I don’t want to receive any calls or

Now the three are well on their way to help ten times that number, with the opening of Camp Battle Dawgs in Talkeetna last month. Dr. Deb has given the use of her 640 acres with a 3200 square foot lodge and bunk house to Battle Dawgs. Fundraising for this project is in full swing since the cost to the veterans is zero dollars. To “give back” to veterans go to http://www.battledawgs.org (non-profit) and donate to this project. “The true battle for a veteran begins when they get home,” says Jennifer

comments later saying, “Nobody told me.” Some of the proposed changes are as follows: New enrollment fees and new names for Tricare Prime and Standard. I wish I could get on the name changing committee. My life would finally have some meaning. Means-tested fees (basing fees on your retired pay amount) are under consideration, which is one of the most offensive to me since I am nearing 70 and still working. Different charges for seeing in network versus out of network providers are proposed and will be a major problem in many areas not geographically close to a major military installation. Changing some cost shares from a percentage of the doctor bill to flat fees that vary for different kinds of providers is on the table. This special treatment is reserved for the military and not any other types of federal retirees. Once again, I can’t speak for all retirees, but I feel so special now by being singled out. More money can be saved by adjusting fees by a new measure of health care inflation instead of the same COLA that applies to retired pay, also more special

Casillo. “Battle Dawgs mission is helping our veterans, one step at a time.” The vision of Battle Dawgs is as big as Alaska: To empower our nation’s heroes through therapeutic healing modalities and exciting wilderness experiences by harnessing the natural splendor of Alaska’s landscape and the healing power of sled and service dogs. “You may arrive at camp as a wounded warrior,” says Jessy Lakin, combat veteran and Battle Dawgs Director of Operations. “By the time camp is over, you will be a Battle Dawg!” In 2004, Rick entered his first Iditarod and went on to compete in the 2006, ’07, ’08, ‘14, ‘15 and ‘16 Iditarods. Working with veterans was something he has always wanted to do. In 2012, Jennifer and Rick started Battle Dawgs and never looked back. Along with his Iditarod dogs, Battle Dawgs now raises and trains puppies to become service dogs. “Battle Dawgs is the first stage for our veteran’s home-front mission: healing. We don’t step away from our mission, until the mission is complete.

treatment for military retirees. And how about the proposed change in network cost shares from a percentage of the provider’s charges to a flat fee? When you pay a percentage of charges under Tricare Standard, your cost share rises over time by the same percentage as the payment to the doctor. Tricare payments to doctors are linked to medicare’s, and medicare payments to doctors have risen very slowly over the past decade as congress has tried to keep a lid on health costs. That means your cost share (20 percent of allowed charges for active duty families, 25 percent for retirees) has risen slowly as well. But what if your payment is switched to a flat fee that is adjusted subsequently at the rate of 5.2 percent a year, as envisioned in the defense budget proposal?

Live another day and let’s do this together,” said Dr. Deb. She is the daughter of a Vietnam veteran and loves hanging out with warriors. She says, “Warriors are kindred spirits who won’t give up. They are well trained in the survival skills America needs now. We are lost without them.” Links: www.BattleDawgs.org, www.RenovaCenter.com Dr. Deb is the author of the best-selling book, The Legend of River Mahay, with a second edition coming out spring 2017. Among other titles is Settling with Power, 3-Steps to Mastering Life on display at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. Coming soon: Warrior’s Guide to Life: Purpose and Meaning After Combat. Deborah Cox Wood, PhD, ND, has a BS in criminology and certificates in coaching, leadership, nutrition, exercise, brain health and emotional wellness. She was named Professional Business Woman of the Year twice, and recognized in 2013 by Worldwide Who’s Who for showing dedication, leadership, and excellence in alternative and holistic medicine.

for an in-network primary care visit in 2018. But how would that change over time? Let’s assume that a $100 medicare/ tricare payment to the doctor grows at 1.5 percent a year — which is faster than it has grown in the past. In 10 years, the tricare payment to the doctor would be $116, but your $25 flat fee would have grown to $42, and instead of paying 25 percent of the doctor bill, your share would have risen to 36 percent. No matter what you think of the initial fee changes, the biggest potential effect of these proposals, if enacted, might be how much faster they would escalate your health care costs over 20 to 30 years. Suffice to say, time would not be on your side from that perspective.

At that rate, your cost would double in about 11 years — much faster than medicare and tricare payments to doctors have grown. No surprises here if you are a provider.

See more of my document source at www.moaa.org/Content/Take-Action/ As-I-See-It/With-Proposed-TRICAREFees,-Time-Is-NOT-on-Your-Side. aspx#sthash.7ruNM0Nm.dpuf

Let’s assume your doctor bill is $100. Your TRICARE Standard cost-share as a retiree under 65 today is 25 percent of that, or $25. That’s exactly the flat fee the new budget proposals envision

And many thanks to Col. Steve Strobridge, USAF (Ret) for his excellent article in the latest MOAA magazine, my main source for this article.

POLITICS

POLITICS / COMMUNITY PAGE 10

Who Is G.I. Jones? Contributed by Tahirah Amatul Wadud Esq. PIZZA Humdingers Pizza ........ 745-7499 PLUMBING & HEATING Rock Solid Plumbing ........ 331-0488 PRINT SERVICES The UPS Store ........ 376-6245 RADIO 95.5 The Pass ........ 631-0877 REPAIR, RESTORATION AK Cell Repair ........ 745-4880 Comtronics ........ 373-2669 SALONS B Bella Salon ........ 746-9007 SMOKE SHOPS Alaska Pipe Dreams ........ 746-1500 SPECIALTY GIFTS Alaska Midnite Scents ........ 357-7364 Forever Endeavor ........ 745-4387 NonEssentials ........ 745-2258 Silvertip Design ........ 745-2902 THRIFT SHOPS Red Barn Thrift Store ........ 745-5050 Saving Grace Thrift Store ........ 414-8643 Steam Driven Boutique ........ 376-4404 Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Stores ........ 376-5708 TOYS Just Imagine Toys ........ 357-1543

Gregory I. Jones has entered the race for Alaska House of Representatives District 8. Jones, a resident of Alaska for seven years, is running as a democrat. “I was born in the days of Dr. Martin Luther King,” says Jones. “I am focused on presenting common sense solutions to the matters facing Alaskans. We are concerned about job training and security, women’s rights and curbing and treating drug addition. I am uniquely qualified to represent District 8 in addressing these very important priorities,” said Jones. Jones is a certified, IBEW, master electrician and has worked in the industry for more than 30 years. Jones and his wife Maleika, have eight children and 10 grandchildren. After

moving from South Carolina to Alaska in 2009, the family continued being active in interfaith initiatives and local politics as well as the local NAACP. Jones and Maleika have served as volunteer chaplains at the University of Alaska Anchorage to the Muslim student organization. Both recently completed the Anchorage Police and Fire Chaplins Association Citizens Police Academy. Jones was born in D.C. and spent most of his adult life with his wife in South Carolina. “For the past 25 years, we have been active in advocating for civil rights and social justice,” said Maleika. “We relocated to Alaska to provide our family with a peaceful environment and to continue our work of spreading peace, education and tolerance. It is a decision we do not regret,” she stated. This is Jones’ first run for public office. Jones says he has garnered considerable attention since making the announcement. “Whether it is in my employment or community service work, people know me and know that I have great ideas and

ability to address the needs of our local community,” said Jones. He says he has developed relationships with many community people who support his candidacy and he is currently scheduling outreach events with local constituents. Jones was elected to represent Alaska at the National Democratic Convention in Philadelphia in July. “It is an honor to be elected from among so many qualified contenders. There is such positive energy coming from Alaska in its role in the national convention. Candidates will compete in the primary race on August 16 and final candidates will meet in the general election on November 8. For more information on Gregory Jones’s campaign follow him on social media Facebook @ Greg Jones for House or contact him via email GregoryJonesAlaska@gmail.com

FUNDRAISER Contributed by Lauralynn Robison Valley Performing Arts Valley Performing Arts will hold its Annual FUN-Raiser on Saturday, October 8th, at Evangelo’s Restaurant in Wasilla. Hosted by BP Alaska and Mat Valley Federal Credit Union, the evening will be a “Roaring 20’s” gala which will include entertainment by talented VPA veterans, silent and live auction items and all of the other fun activities that the event is known for. Guests are encouraged to dress for the occasion in Roaring 20’s attire to add to the fun and excitement of the evening.

There will be prizes for the best couple and best individuals that arrive in costume. The doors will open at 6:00PM for auction registration, dinner will begin at 7:00PM, and the entertainment will start around 7:30PM. A cash bar will be available. Tickets are $65 each and can be purchased in advance by calling 373-0195 or through the VPA office at 251 West Swanson Avenue in Wasilla. Corporate tables are also available for $800. Our annual FUN-Raiser is always fun and is one of the highlights of the fall schedule. Get your tickets early, as we do anticipate another sell out! Come join the fun at Valley Performing Arts!

HEARTFELT / FAITH Remembering My Father Contributed by Scott Laney My name is Scott R. Laney Jr. My life growing up was amazing. My whole family would go to church together to praise God. Later on in my life, my dad bought us dirt bikes. We would always go out riding, watch movies together, go fishing and camping. My father and I got jobs working on the North Slope making great money. Then February 7th, 2014, I was hit by a car going 60 mph. I died for thirty minutes and remember seeing heaven! I was back in my body and had only seen Jesus. He healed me and protected me from death. My father’s name was Scott R Laney SR. Earlier this year he was having finical a set-back because he didn’t have a job. I started to pray for him to get a job. Then all of a sudden, he got a head cook job in Kodiak. He was working up there for about three weeks. He was loving his work and doing so great! One day he was doing dishes and got a cut on his hand. A horrible bacteria got into his

body called cellulitis. Then the next morning, my father couldn’t get out of bed because his body was so sore. He then suffered flu-like symptoms. He was out of work for about 3 days just lying in bed. They finally decided to fly him home. I called him and spoke to him for only a few minutes because he was in such severe pain. After three days of not working, his employer sent him to the home. He was in the Kodiak hospital for about three days. Then they had to medevac him to the Providence Hospital in Anchorage, AK. There they finally told us of his current condition. They told us that the cellulitis was blocking off all of his heart valves, so he was going to have to have open heart surgery. While he was in the hospital, a nurse was trying to put an IV into his hand; instead of putting it in correctly, she scrambled his hand all up and gave him an infection. Then they wouldn’t do his heart surgery until his hand was better. Then he had an aneurism and this flooded his brain and caused a condition that the doctors could not help. At 3 months of being in the hospital, I went to see my dad on July 28th, 2016. He was in an induced coma. The doctors said that they were going to do some tests on him. They opened his eyes and flashed a bright light in his eyes and the doctors said that his pupils were not dilating. Then

they started to shock and poke his arm looking for a reflex. Nothing happened. I came up to my father and told him to just take hold of Jesus’s hand, and I said a long prayer for him. I know my father was a great believer in God and my mother the other day made sure my dad forgave everyone that he had issues with as well. We had hopes that he would recover, but we wanted to make sure that he was in the good hands of the Almighty. I know my father is in heaven with Jesus and our Heavenly Father, just smiling down upon us. I know he would want me to continue with my education. I just got my GED, and now I am about to start college and make my father proud. My hospital bills were $3,100,000. I also sat by my father’s side and read to him scripture. They told me although he was in a coma, he could still hear me. So I told him to take Jesus’s hand and that I loved him. I prayed for him, then kissed him before the doctors pulled his life support off. May God bless all who read this story. Please help at: www.gofundme.com/scottlaney Scott Laney: 777godlives777@gmail.com

LOCAL SPORTS

COMMUNITY PAGE 11

Contributed by Heather McGee

responded, “The view is the best thing in the world. When you are going around for the parade laps, slowly enough to take it all in, it blows your mind. My screensaver on my phone is a view of the track. I love being out there. The track is so nice. It’s the best facility in Alaska, and I’ve heard that from other people too.”

Rookie Baby Grand racer #81 David Elliott, Jr. is having a heck of a debut racing season at Alaska Raceway Park – so far with five first place finishes, one second, and one third. David discovered his grandfather’s and father’s racing genes are alive and well in him.

David chose to race Baby Grands because his dad is the owner of Alaska Racer Supply and the dealer for Baby Grand race cars. “I wanted to jump into a Late Model right away,” David said, “But Dad wanted me to start off smaller. I went to the first practices and test and tunes and figured out the car. The very first weekend I ended up getting sponsored by John, my boss at Extreme Fun Center.”

The manager of Extreme Fun Center in Wasilla, David had never raced anything before he got into a baby grand this year, at age 23, to race ARP’s new asphalt oval. David’s father, Dave Elliott, is an oval racer in the Late Model class who also drag raced long ago. In fact, David is a third-generation racer. He said it’s always been his dream since childhood to be a NASCAR racer, and he’s very happy to learn he’s a natural at it. In the past the family moved to Las Vegas so father, Dave, could work for NASCAR driver Brendan Gaughan, who races in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 62 Chevrolet Camaro for Richard Childress Racing. When asked what he loves most about racing at Alaska Raceway Park, David

Expecting to go out and putt around and feel what the car could do, David realized he could really drive and understand the track and in fact that he could legitimately race against pals like longtime racer, Alex Schwochert, who has been racing since he was a kid and is currently two feature wins away from a career 100 wins. Now David is addicted to the awesome feeling of racing and competing. Alex and David’s dads both raced the oval at North Star Speedway, which closed in 2012. David’s dad is his biggest support for him on the track, and he

said that’s been one of the best parts of racing. He lost his grandfather, Bob, on July 2, right after the Tesoro race. David said, “I swept the day, dropped off the car, and found out my grandpa passed away. Grandpa was big into trials motorcycling racing in his youth. Last thing Grandpa saw was me, out there winning.”

Pops’s last words to me were, ‘Damn, you can wheel that car!’” His most recent first place finish was on August 6, 2016 in a 20-lap feature race in a field of four cars. He beat #11 Alex Schwochert and #63 Brad Generous. David will have two more chances this season to prove his mettle on the oval behind the wheel of the #81.

Recently too another family member, Pops, passed away. Pops was also a huge race fan and used to race in the Lower 48. David said, “Last time I saw him was two weeks ago at Alaska Raceway Park. They were both represented on my car this weekend. It was an emotional weekend for Dad and me, but we got through it. I took Grandpa and Pops for a hell of a ride.

For young people ages 14-17 who are interested in NASCAR asphalt oval racing, this season NASCAR is offering a $500 cash prize and a $500 scholarship to the highest-ranking youth at our track. We are encouraging anyone in that age bracket to contact us through www.raceak.com or on Facebook.

COMMUNITY Contributed by Lee Henrikson Radio Free Palmer is now broadcasting at 89.7 in the Palmer area. The new signal reaches parts of Wasilla, Knik Goose Bay Road and Palmer Fishhook. We are pleased to bring our local programming to the Wasilla area. See if you can tune in to community radio. Let us know how well you get the signal - message Radio Free Palmer on Facebook. We moved our transmitter up higher on Lazy Mountain and the FCC required a new frequency at 89.7. This all happened with a dynamic group of volunteers on Wednesday night, July 20. We still broadcast at 89.5 in Sutton and Butte, and 91.5 in Glacier View. We’re excited about the expanded reach and look forward to bringing community radio to more of the Mat Su Borough. Radio Free Palmer is an all-volunteer radio station whose mission is to build, inform and celebrate community through local radio.

Mari Jo Parks, Chief Elf Organizer

Correction Center have been making toys for the children of the valley for years, and here are their new creations. Thanks to all of the men using their time to bring delight to children, and to Mrs. Claus for letting them know that their hard work was appreciated.

2015 was our 19th year bringing Christmas to families in our community. Over 3,300 children from 1,104 families received at least 2 items from their wish list, personal needs items, winter wear when requested (and we had it), stocking stuffers and a new book to open on Christmas. Families were referred by agencies that work with families in need, community programs, churches and schools, as well as friends and neighbors. We had more people who sponsored a child or family, buying gifts to specifically fill a child’s wish list. We so often hear from these santas telling us about their quest to find that requested unique gift and how much fun it is to find it and know that it went to that child. Eight elementary schools took on the task of hosting Santa Trees. Watching the children and their parents deliver the mountains of toys was so heartwarming. The children just beamed with pride as they shared their classmates’ donations. Classrooms and school clubs also sponsored children and made wishes come true. Alaska Family Services continues to be our parent organization. Our local radio stations and newspapers promoted us from October through Christmas bringing awareness to the community. Businesses, organizations, church groups, individuals and neighbors gave

donations of money, toys or winter wear, once again helping us bring Christmas to families who struggle making ends meet. We live in a very generous community, working together to make miracles happen. One Mom wrote: “I just wanted to thank you so very much for the help you have given our family. I about cried on the way home knowing their little smiling faces are going to be so happy. It’s a parent’s dream come true and a precious feeling, and I have only your program to thank for that! Thank you ever so very much!” Every day at the workshop is golden (and a whole lot of crazy fun), but here are a few moments the really stood out for me. Mrs. Claus went to prison for Special Santa!!! The Pt. Mackenzie and Goose Creek

Toys for Tots had seven pallets of stuffed animals for us in Anchorage, but we had no way to get them. Then with two phone calls, the impossible happened and Span Alaska Transportation Company figured out a way to get them to us. They had to go on the military base which is no small feat these days, but they worked it out. What a great gift for so many of our children. Children Giving: We have so many wonderful children who save their allowance or go with their parents to select special gifts for other children. One little girl about age 8 came with her grandparents and asked what we needed on a busy Saturday. Off the top of my head, I said hair ribbons and ties. She went shopping with her own money and bought the best hair items we had gotten this year. I could not hug her enough for her generous act. She beamed and I cried! Grandma and Grandpa were so very proud. Another golden moment!

COMMUNITY Heather Ridge, with the Mat-Su Borough Emergency Services Department, says this year’s expo will be bigger and better than ever. Featuring more than 50 different exhibits and vendors, the Expo is set for September 17th from 11 am to 3 pm at the Menard Sports Center. “For the past few years we have held this event at the Mat-Su College, but due to the interest and growing size of the event, we made the decision to move it to the Menard Sports Center in order to accommodate more exhibits and to serve more residents,” explained Ridge. This year’s expo is made possible thanks to AARP Alaska with support from the Matanuska-Susitna Local Emergency Planning Committee, the American Red Cross, and a host of local organizations and businesses who all share a mission to help residents be prepared in the event of an emergency or disaster. If you never been impacted by an avalanche, fire, flood, car accident or other natural disaster, you might think, “It won’t happen to me.” That’s exactly what most people who have been affected say before it happens to them. The headlines are full of stories of people saying, “In all my years I have never seen…” Judy and Tom Wake of Palmer thought that before they woke up to the sound of rushing water one morning and discovered their home on the Matanuska River was washing away in a flood. The weather is ever changing. We have seen milder winters, hotter summers, more rain, more snow. Without a crystal ball, we have no way of knowing what the seasons will bring. This is your chance to prepare for a host of scenarios that range from avalanches to fire to floods to medical emergencies and more. “This year’s Expo will once again feature the popular disaster experience rooms that allow visitors the chance to see how they might react to a specific emergency,” explained Ridge. “In addition, we will be conducting community exercises that will train you and your family on what to do and

COMMUNITY PAGE 12

how to prepare for a host of potential disasters or emergencies.” The expo will also feature a poster contest. The contest is open to everyone from youth, ages 5 to 18, with an additional category this year for adults, ages 19 and up. Draw a picture to share what emergency preparedness means to you for a chance to win a kit with supplies for your family. Grand prizes will be awarded in six age categories and presented at the Mat-Su Borough Assembly meeting following the expo. The posters will be on display at the expo for community judging and viewing. “This is a family friendly affair and features lots of great information, hands on activities, give-a-way items, disaster experiences, the poster contest, community exercises, supplies for purchase, and much more,” said Ridge. “There will be dozens of professionals on hand to provide assistance and training. The first 100 people will also receive a special kit thanks to AARP Alaska.” You can reserve your kit by preregistering online at https://2016eme rgencypreparednessexpo.eventbrite. com. There is no fee to attend, however new this year will be the opportunity to purchase emergency kit supplies. Want to be an exhibitor and help your community get prepared? “There is no fee to have a booth, but we request a donated prize for the silent auction and/or door prize raffle,” said Ridge. Deadline to register as an exhibitor is August 20th. Remember, emergencies and disasters are not a matter of if, but when. This is your opportunity to ensure your family has the supplies, skills and plan needed to make it an inconvenience, not a tragedy. Attend this free community expo made possible thanks to AARP Alaska. Learn more or register today by calling Heather Ridge at 907-841-1674 or online at https://2016emergencyprepa rednessexpo.eventbrite.com You can learn more about Debra McGhan at alaskasnow.org

VOTE LOCAL! Shopping Local IS Political Bert Verrall for State House __________________________________________________________________ Bert’s Palmer Roots Run Deep:

• 4th generation Alaskan, born in Palmer, Palmer High graduate • Current secretary & past president of Palmer Lions • Served as president of Valley Golf Association • Palmer High School football staff coach for 10 Years • Served as Umpire in Chief of Palmer Little League • Served as president of Mat-Su Softball _________________ Cell: 354-3798 E-mail: bertinthehouse@mtaonline.net A

Bert is Independent. He’s one of us! A

A A

Paid for by Bert in the House, PO Box 4708 Palmer, AK 99645

Beautiful Lake Side Setting

Family-friendly fine dining and accommodations

on the shores of beautiful Big Lake

892-8595 | 892-8885 Betty & Crew

bbellahairdesign.com

The Gallery

Card Classes Available!

Get your Canning Supplies Early!

Gourmet Teas, Coffees, & Candies

701 S. Knik Goose Bay Road | City Center Business Park

COMMUNITY special elves made it their mission to collect bikes in late August. The response was amazing, collecting over 50 bikes. The parents were so surprised and grateful when their child’s wish was granted. For many of the older children, the bikes would be their only mode of transportation.

BIKES: Every year we have so many requests for bikes and we would wish we had them because it issuch a great activity for children, but they are out of our price range. This year, some very

Contributed by The Leckwold Family The Leckwold name is known in Anchorage and the Valley for five generations. Martin was the first to arrive around the turn of the previous century, establishing a roadhouse in the four corners of what is now Palmer/Wasilla on a homestead with wife Mattie and their children, Harry, Marcella and Weldon (Archie). Martin and Marcella succumbed to complications from TB while in a Seattle hospital and Mattie moved to Anchorage. She and the boys lived in a home on 4th Avenue that later became The Marx Brothers Café. While helping to expand and grow the community of Knik through farming and road building, Mattie became the first female mail carrier from Chugiak to the Valley, mushing the way through. In her later life, she was very involved in establishing the Pioneer Home, to which she eventually retired. Harry and Archie split the homestead and Harry built his home above the creek with wife, Barbara, and their four children, Brian, Sandy, Dave and Laurie. Harry was the refrigeration man throughout most of the territory for many years, keeping everyone’s food processing operations running and all

COMMUNITY PAGE 14

Contributed by Aileen Cole

a great start for 2016!

think we’re complaining!

What’s on the horizon? Well let me bullet point it for you:

The many hands and hearts that go into making this program work, along with all the wonderful moments of gratitude, surprise and wonder from our recipients really does make it all worthwhile - it sounds cheesy but it’s true!

August - First Meeting of 2016 Season September - Bike Drive October - Halloween Hollow

Although we have been pretty quiet in 2016 so far, we have not been idle!

November - Moving into the Workshop and Shopping

There have been donations rolling in steadily over the first half of the year, which has helped set us up for our busy second half that is just about to get underway!

December - More Shopping and Wish List Filling

A big thank you to the Palmer Lions Club, Enterprise Car Rentals, Local Chapters of Beta Sigma Phi, Our Quilt Lady, private donations and the Palmer Backcountry Bike and Ski. We are off to

Come and see what I’m talking about, participate with one or more of these next events and you will see not only what a difference you can make, but what a great time it is making it!

And of course throughout it all, there is fundraising, buying, promotion, office work and all the other things that support and get the word out about this wonderful program. It is amazing how much work can be involved with the simple task of getting presents to children in need, but don’t

“This is our unique way of giving back to the communities that have supported us since our beginning,” said Salmon Sisters co-founder, Emma Teal Laukitis. “We hope to inspire other local businesses to find unique ways to keep their homes and communities vibrant.” “Eating wild Alaska salmon makes us feel healthy, happy and strong. This is something we want to share with people far and wide,” said Claire Neaton, also a co-founder of Salmon Sisters and Laukitis’s sister. “With our one-toone program, we can directly support working fishermen and help those Alaskans most in need of this delicious wild protein.”

Dave grew up and worked in numerous building and contracting positions in the state, excelling in kitchen design and installations and air and water purification. His wife Marjory grew up in Anchorage.

Today the kids are grown and dispersed throughout the country, and the folks are gone except for Marjory’s mom who is fit and spry at 84 years young and always on the go. Dave and Marjory have camped and fished and traveled all they want, and now feel the desire to give back to the community in some small but significant way, and this past

year they have worked with the state of Alaska to license their home as an assisted living residence for dependent seniors. They have an affinity for Alaskan elders and share a real love of this country and their stories in settling this land, and to that end they have named the business: Alaskan Folks Assisted Living Home. Their desire is to give specific, personal, one on one care and assistance to a senior Alaskan or two with warm and friendly attention to their every need. Hospice care is also available. The home is secluded at the end of a cul-de-sac in a quiet, wooded

subdivision just off Knik Goose Bay Road at mile 10.9. The resident has a private room (furnished or unfurnished) and open, furnished living and dining space to stretch and participate in daily activities to promote mental and physical wellbeing. Chauffeuring residents to necessary appointments and leisure activities as need be or as desired is included. The cost is surprisingly affordable and allinclusive for personal pay residents. To inquire about availability or for more particulars call Marjory at 907-376-7089 or e-mail at Marjory@mtaonline.net

LITERATURE Exciting Alaska Pipeline Days Caught in New Book Contributed by Rebecca Goodrich It’s March 1969, and Armand Spielman of Atlantic Richfield accepts the position of landman for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline project. His mission: secure the right-of-way for the pipeline footprint. Eight hundred miles of right-of-ways, from Prudhoe to Valdez.

Spielman hires his friend Jay Sullivan to help out, and Sullivan recruits candidates for the team, some without experience. But nobody has the kind of experience that the Trans-Alaska Pipeline demands. That’s where the adventure begins in the new state of Alaska, with a project that overwhelms available resources, and drives some of the landmen in Spielman’s crew to brave and desperate acts. Armand Spielman, the Landman himself, passed away February 17, 2016, but his co-author, environmental

For every product sold by the Salmon Sisters through their online store and wholesale accounts across the state, one can of salmon is donated. Their donation will benefit thousands of Alaskans and will be distributed amongst 80 different agencies across Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley. The project is ongoing; this delivery represents a donation from the first quarter of its inception.

the beer on ice in South Central Alaska. He and Barbara were very active in community events and organizations in Palmer. Barbara was a very social person and established and promoted such organizations as The Pioneers, The Masons, Rainbow Girls and DeMolay and Beta Sigma Phi Sorority to name just a few.

She managed a large convenience store in Florida and was the administrator of a homeless shelter for women and children before returning to Alaska. As Harry grew more infirm in his later years, Dave and Marjory became his caregivers until his passing, at which time they built their current home in the KGB area of the Valley.

Alaska apparel company, Salmon Sisters, has donated approximately 14,688 cans of wild Alaska salmon to the Food Bank of Alaska through their Give: Fish Project.

engineer Michael Travis, got a proof copy into his hands before he died. Travis’ other books have both won awards: El Gancho: A Saga of an Immigrant Family’s Journey Out of Mexico, and Melozi: A Teenager’s Search for A Summer Job Lands Him An Adventure In The Alaska Bush. Michael Travis is the principal of Travis/Peterson Environmental Consulting, Inc. in Anchorage, Alaska. The Landmen: How They Secured The Trans-Alaska Pipeline Right

of Way by Spielman and Travis is available at fine bookstores, Amazon, and from the publisher at: ww.PublicationConsultants.com or 907-349-2424

“Our clients are always in need of healthy protein sources, and for many, nothing beats Alaska salmon,” said Jim Baldwin, Executive Director for Food Bank of Alaska. “Salmon Sisters’ donation program is a great example of a local business giving back and having a really positive impact in our community.” Silver Bay Seafoods, a Sitka-based seafood processor that Neaton and Laukitis’s family fishing boats deliver to, provided discounted canned salmon to further aid the project. “As an Alaskan company comprised of Alaskan fishermen, we take great pride in being proactive community stewards throughout our great state,” said Richard Riggs, Silver Bay Seafoods CEO. “With this donation by the Salmon Sisters reaching over 60 communities statewide, we are proud to have Silver Bay’s canned salmon products likewise reaching those with needs in communities across Alaska.” Alaska Airlines provided complimentary air freight to transport the cans from Sitka to Anchorage. Salmon Sisters is an ocean-inspired lifestyle brand owned and operated by Alaskan sisters, Emma Teal Laukitis and Claire Neaton. The sisters were raised on a remote homestead in False Pass, Alaska, and have participated in the family’s commercial fishing operations since they could walk. All of their products are designed and created in Alaska.