Emily Deach to fill borough manager position after years with
By Gretchen Wehmhoff
MOS
sThe Skagway Assembly approved contracting Skagway’s current Deputy Manager, Emily Deach as Skagway’s new Borough Manager. She will fill the position as the current manager, Brad Ryan completes his obligations after resigning this past fall.
Deach has served under at least six mayors while working in various MOS positions from administrative, accounting, as the Borough Clerk and as the Deputy Borough manager. She came highly recommend by Ryan and members of the assembly. Since the manager position is appointed, there was no requirement to seek competitive bids or interview more candidates.
Deach spent her early years in the Midwest until her family moved to Sitka, where she completed high school. She headed to college in Chicago on a volleyball scholarship, but eventually decided to return to Alaska where she earned her degree in communications from UAS.
She first met her husband, Matt, while on a roadtrip to Fairbanks, then later, she ran into him again in Juneau through the same matchmaking friend around 2003. In 2004 she spent her first summer in Skagway working for Kathy Shen at Broadway Jewelry.
She and Matt did a stint in Arizona, but they eventually made it back to Skagway. She just wanted to be back where she was more comfortable.
“You get on the plane to Phoenix, and everyone’s dressed different. It doesn’t feel quite right, you know.
But then coming back, as you’re flying into Seattle, everyone on the plane is sort of wearing Pacific Northwest clothes, like these are my people,” Deach said.
Deach was working at Wells Fargo when she heard about a position at the MOS. She applied and has been with the municipality since. In 2010 she was hired for the clerk position.
The learning process was intense, but she had colleagues to rely on. As those people eventually moved on, the job as clerk became real.
“There’s this point where, really, there’s no one to ask for the answer. That’s when it really starts. You’re like, Okay, I can’t find the answer. The answer isn’t out there, so I need to sort of create the answer, which is totally not as safe. It’s not as safe ground. You have to start interpreting things. I spent a lot of time talking to our attorney,” she said.
Deach spent a great deal of time assisting and and talking with assembly member as the clerk. It was detail-oriented job.
She anticipates the manager job will be different.
“As the clerk, the Assembly makes decisions, you record the decisions and then someone else implements them. But now I’m helping to implement those decisions and to inform the public and inform the assembly,” Deach said.
Deach has observed the role Ryan took on as manager. She sees the role as a constant barrage of people and meetings.
“It’s like a rotating door, you know, or revolving door. People are waiting in the hallway to talk to him, so he’s
EPA permit notes state mandate to lower bacteria in WW discharge into Taiya Inlet
By Gretchen Wehmhoff
Skagway and other Southeast communities will have five years to show they have reduced the levels of bacteria discharged into local marine waters. This state mandate comes as a condition of concurrence as the US Environmental Protection Agency re-issued wastewater discharge permits to Haines, Sitka, Skagway and Wrangell this month. Petersburg and Ketchikan permits are expected to be renewed in 2025.
Per the EPA, the current discharge from the wastewater facilities is not consistently disinfected and contain high levels of fecal coliform and enterococcus bacteria.
EPA has waived secondary treatment for facilities that discharge to oceans or saline estuaries. These permits issued by the EPA must also comply with all state and federal water standards. Alaska revised its water quality standards for bacteria in 2017. At that time it was
determined that renewed EPA permits would need to require wastewater facilities discharges to meet the updated standards.
According to the EPA, the new bacteria limitations will require capital investments to provide disinfection of the discharges. EPA funds and the state administers the Clean Water State Revolving Fund that provides low interest loans to communities seeking to upgrade wastewater facilities.
Skeeter gives her owner, Katherine Moseley, a snuggle as they prepare for a walk in chilly winter temperatures. Moseley has tips for helping your dogs get through this winter in her Paw Prints column on page 8.
Photo provided by Katherine Moseley
Page 2
The Skagway News.
Skagway’s First Newspaper Christened in 1897, buried alive in 1904 and resurrected in 1978, The Skagway News is currently celebrating 47 years of reporting in Skagway and Dyea, Alaska, recording our Centennial years and beyond.
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Vol. XLVII, No 22 (984) December 13, 2024
Published online the second and fourth Friday of the month
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Find the Yuletide Schedule on the Skagway News website.
October Students of the Month who exemplify the Skagway Schools character word of the month - Attitude. Left to right: Elementary, 2nd Grade, Vivian
November - Leadership
Dec. 1 to 10, 2024
Dec.1
December 13, 2024
Finding personal ‘bandwidth’ to manage the job
seeing one person after another, and at the end of the day, he hasn’t, checked his emails, or things like that,” Deach said.
Deach has already been thinking of how she will manage the onslaught of communication, emails, phone calls and meetings.
“I have a plan that, but as you know, they tend to not work out,” she jokes
“My plan is that I want to dedicate time every day and put it into my electronic calendar so people can see it. For example, from eight to nine I’m just checking emails, there’s so many emails, and so if you can just get through them and at least have an idea of what you know, what people are trying to talk to you about, you’ve already won for the day, you know,” she said.
Deach spelled out a po-
(from front page)
tential schedule that started and ended the day with reading and responding to emails.
With her two children in college, she believes her time management will have a bit more “bandwidth” as she will no longer be chaperoning robotics trips, basketball games and the other important things that involved Skagway parents deal with.
She knows she is always on call for emergencies but wants to preserve some time to spend with her family. She says she’s lucky to have Matt.
“He won’t let me in the kitchen. He cooks, and he loves it, and he’s really good at it. I’m very lucky,” she said.
Deach starts her new position in the early January and expects to be sworn in at that time.
A quick assembly wrap up from the Dec. 5 meeting
The Skagway Assembly meeting on December 5, 2024, The budget for fiscal year 2025 was approved, with adjustments including a $150,000 allocation for the welcome garden and $120,000 for trail work.
The Garden City RV park utilities funding was shifted from sales tax to the land fund.
The temporary fender modification project was awarded to Hamilton Construction for $796,125, and KPFF was approved for construction support services up to $122,538.
The assembly also discussed potential grants for property owners to address contamination issues and emphasized the importance of community input on the Main Street rehabilitation project.
The assembly moved the discussion of port planning off the agenda to a date yet to be determined. Assemblymember Kolodi expressed concern that reveiwing new docking usage of the ferry peninsula for American Cruise Lines needed more direct dicussion in order to give attention to the request, the current ferry peninsula and the Port master plan. Taxes, mil rates and dumpsters are on the horizon.
The next assembly meeting will be Dec. 19. The Assembly Committee of Whole is scheduled to meet Dec. 18.
Police & Fire
Fire personnel responded to a fire alarm at a downtown business.
Dec. 2
The Klondike Highway was closed for a brief period due to an avalanche.
Fire personnel responded to a fire alarm at a downtown business.
Dec. 4
Fire personnel responded to a fire alarm at a downtown business.
The Klondike Highway closed due to severe amounts of ice on the Canadian side.
A downtown business that is closed for the season reported a potential squatter on their premises.
Fire personnel responded to a fire alarm at a downtown business.
Dec. 5
EMS personnel responded to a medical emergency.
Dec. 6
EMS personnel responded to a medical emergency
An individual was assisted with purchasing a ferry ticket
EMS personnel assisted with a medical transport.
Dec. 7
The Klondike Highway was closed for avalanche control. Dispatch assisted with contacting the On-Duty Provider. A backpack was turned in, and reunited with its owner the following day.
Novembe Students of the Month who exemplify the Skagway Schools character word of the month - Leadership Left to right: Amara Fielding-6th Grade; Lina Hischer-11th Grade; Booker Klug-5th Grade
Photos provided by Skagway School
Department of Labor approves DEED’s teacher apprentice program, opening pathways for teacher certification within a community
By Gretchen Wehmhoff
The U.S. Department of Labor approved the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development’s (DEED) application to establish the Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program (T-RAP).
Alaska Commissioner Deena Bishop made the announcement at the Dec. 3 State Board of Education meeting.
The program enables qualified residents to work in their local schools to gain practical experience and mentorship as they seek teacher certification.
According to DEED, this program falls in line with Gov. Dunleavy’s Teacher
Retention and Recruitment (TRR) plans to offer more pathways for paraprofessionals and community members to become teachers.
The DEED plan to establish the registered apprenticeship pathway was supported by the State Board of Education via resolution in January 2023.
According to DEED, “T-RAP is a key strategy to address Alaska’s teacher shortage, integrating on-thejob learning with academic coursework and mentorship.”
The program allows the paraprofessionals, those looking to change careers and other community members to work towards enter-
ing the teaching profession without leaving their communities.
Bishop recognized that partnerships with Alaska universities, school districts, tribes and unions were key while developing T-RAP.
“The Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program represents Alaska’s commitment to growing our own educators by investing in local talent,” said Commissioner Deena Bishop of DEED. “This initiative will help ensure our schools are staffed with educators who are deeply connected to their communities and fully equipped to meet the diverse needs of our students.”
Skagway School Board
House majority coalition lists committee leadership, Hannan sits on finance
The House Majority Coalition has identified committee chairs in order to begin work on priorities of education, energy, retirement reform, and balanced budgets.
“We have heard loud and clear from Alaskans that we need stable education funding for great schools with small class sizes,” said incoming Speaker Bryce Edgmon and Education CoChairs Andi Story and Rebecca Himshoot.
“Alaska voters have clearly expressed their will. They want to see collaborative efforts to address energy challenges, stable education funding, retirement securi-
ty, and a balanced budget,” said Majority Leader Chuck Kopp. “Alaska needs to be unlocked and pro-resource development policies pursued that put Alaskans to work for our state and national security.”
House Finance Committee membership is Co-Chairs Neal Foster (bills), Andy Josephson (operating budget), and Calvin Schrage (capital budget), with members Sara Hannan, Alyse Galvin, and Nellie Jimmie.
House Leadership consists of Speaker Edgmon, Majority Leader Chuck Kopp, Rules Chair Louise Stutes, Finance Co-Chairs, and
Whip Zack Fields. Additional committee chairmanships include: State Affairs: Ashley Carrick; Health and Social Services: Genevieve Mina; Labor and Commerce: Zack Fields and Carolyn Hall;Committee and Regional Affairs: Donna Mears and Rebecca Himshoot; Judiciary: Andrew Gray; Transportation: Ted Eischeid and Ashley Carrick; Military and Veteran Affairs: Ted Eischeid; Joint Armed Services Committee: Andrew Gray; Fisheries: Louise Stutes; Tribal Affairs: Bryce Edgmon and Maxine Dibert
Revised state standards impact conditions for EPA wastewater permit renewal
(from Front page)
A call to Public Works for comment and verification was not returned by deadline.
Discussions and modification of the local wastewater treatment plant has been a dedicated topic within the
Skagway assembly and administration over the years.
Skagway’s application decision document details the process and description of the local wastewater treatment plant.
In addition to the intake, the EPA Decision Document
details the process in Skagway from intake through the outfall into Taiya Inlet approximately 1000 feet offshore at a depth of 55 feet below the mean low water.
A copy of the EPA permit for Skagway Wastewater is here.
Naloxone overdose kits (name brand NARCAN) have been placed around town to assist in an opioid emergency. They can be found at the following locations:
● AMHS Ferry Terminal
● Eagles F.O.E. Aerie #25
● Elks Lodge #431
● Grizzly’s General
● Skagway Recreation Center
● The Station
● U.S. Post Office
● Wells Fargo Bank
● Two kits are at the school
approved dedicating money from its teacher retention fund, which to participate in a Grow Your Own program meant to assist classified employees who have been with the school for at least one year in obtaining teacher certification.
The district will reimburse the cost of up to 15 credit hours per semester.
The T-RAP program will
launch as a pilot in spring 2025 and expand statewide by fall 2025.
Rachel A. Fletcher
Dec. 16, 1951 - Nov. 24, 2024
It is with heartfelt sadness that we share the news that Rachel Ann (Lapierre) Fletcher, 72, of Hardwick, Vermont., passed away on Nov. 24, 2024. She was born on Dec. 16, 1951, in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, the adopted daughter of Arlton and Marjorie Lapierre of Greensboro, Vermont.
Rachel graduated from Hardwick Academy in 1969 and married her love, Clifford Fletcher, in 1970. They welcomed two children, Tracy and Todd, in 1971 and 1974 respectfully, before parting ways after many happy years together.
Rachel was a talented florist at the Flower Basket in Hardwick and worked at Kirmse’s Jewelry Store in Skagway, Alaska. Additionally, she was the coordinator for the Hardwick Area Chamber of Commerce and a proud member of the American Legion Post # 7 Auxiliary.
A gifted artist, Rachel, expressed her creativity through painting, quilting, knitting and crocheting - leaving a legacy of beautiful handmade items. All who knew her will deeply miss Rachel’s warmth, creativity and loving spirit.
She is survived by her daughter,
Tracy and her husband, Thomas M. Collier of Greensboro; her son, Todd and his wife Lisa Fletcher, of Greensboro,; her brother Ernest Dale Lapierre of Craftsbury; her recently united sister, Peggy Robinson of Dover, New Hampshire; and her cherished grandchildren, including grand-daughters, Bethany and her husband Jared Thompson, of Virginia, Crystal and her husband Chad Badger, of Wolcott, VT, Chelsea and her husband Alexander Vilord of, Waterville, VT; grandsons Wilford McAllister and family, of Hardwick, Adam Grenier and his fiancé Sarah Christopherson, of Pullup, Wash., Blake and his wife Caitlyn Fletcher, of Newport, VT, Thomas and his wife Nicole Collier, of Brownington, VT, Zachary Collier, of Greensboro; and many adored nieces and nephews. Rachel was also a proud great-grandmother to Tyler, Caleb,
Borough Manager Ryan headed to the
Emily, Aspen, Fletcher and Michael. Rachel was predeceased by her parents, Arlton and Marjorie, and her brother Lawrence Allen Lapierre. She is surely delighted to be reunited with her dog Tessa May, who passed earlier this summer
A Celebration of her life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at Northern Vermont Funeral Home, 60 Elm Street, Hardwick, VT. Please feel free to express your condolences to her family during visiting hours from 1 to 2 p.m. with a memorial service immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Rachel’s memory be made to Friends for Life Dog Rescue (FFLDR), 112 Pray Lane, Brownington, VT 05850.
Online condolences are welcomed at northernvermontfuneralservice. com
Alaska SeaLife Center
in Seward as executive vice-presedent, deputy director
SEWARD - The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) announced the appointment of Dr. Brad Ryan as the Center’s first Executive Vice President/Deputy Director (EVP/DD). With a rich background in environmental science and a passion for conservation, Ryan’s journey began in the stunning natural landscapes of Oregon, where his love for the outdoors and wildlife inspired him to pursue a degree in Biological Sciences.
Ryan holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Resources, focusing on the vulnerability of juvenile salmon to avian predation—a crucial area of study for marine biodiversity and sustainable fisheries. After spending a decade as a research scientist with
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), he made significant contributions to the protection of marine resources.
Following his time with NOAA, Brad took an adventurous leap, selling his home to travel the world by motorbike. He explored the breathtaking landscapes of Africa, South America, and Central America, which deepened his respect for diverse ecosystems and strengthened his commitment to environmental stewardship. Upon returning to the U.S., he settled in Haines, Alaska, where he worked closely with Native Tribes and watershed councils, honing his expertise in watershed restoration and the protection of Alaska’s unique ecosystems.
Ryan’s served as Director of Public Facilities in Haines and later as Borough Manager in Skagway.
“In these roles, he leveraged his scientific knowledge and leadership skills to enhance public services and infrastructure, making a direct impact on his community,” the release said.
Now, at the Alaska SeaLife Center, Ryan shares he is excited to bring his expertise and enthusiasm for conservation to the ASLC team.
“His unique blend of adventure, scientific knowledge, and commitment to public service will help us advance our mission to generate and share scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems,” the
release reported.
“We’re delighted to welcome Brad to our executive team,” said Wei Ying Wong, President and CEO of the Alaska SeaLife Center. “His extensive experience and passion for marine conservation align perfectly with our mission. We can’t wait to see the positive impact he will have on our projects and the community.”
Editors note: The Skagway News covered the story of Skagway Borough Manager Ryan’s decision to move on to a new career with The Alaska SeaLife Center. This press release is included to share more details about Ryan’s history and new job. Ryan’s last days with the MOS are in early January.
Photo of Brad Ryan provided by The Alaska SeaLife Center
Scholarships, grants & opportunities
The Skagway Public Library
Wifi is available outside the library 10am-10pm..
U.S. Passports: Crystal Harris, our Library Assistant, is currently Skagway’s only passport acceptance agent. Applications are accepted by appointment only Tuesday through Friday. day. Please call to schedule. For more more information - 907-9832665 or email library@skagway.org
The Municipality of Skagway 2025 Senior Citizen/Disabled Veteran Exemption forms have been mailed.
Forms must be received at City Hall by January 15, 2025. If you are a property owner who will be 65 before January 1, 2025, or a disabled veteran, you must notify City Hall to enroll. All eligible residents must submit a form every year to receive the exemption. Ordinance 23-12 was ratified by the voters on October 3, 2023 which adjusted the exemption to the first $350,000 of the assessed value of your primary residence. Any questions can be directed to Tax Clerk, Susie Anderson by phone 983-2297 or e-mail s.anderson@skagway.org.
Rasmuson Foundation is accepting applications for Tier 1 and Community Support grants
Tier 1 grants
Tier 1 is a core program of the Foundation, known for fast capital and one-time funding. In addition to a 40% increase in the maximum award size, the program now allows organizations to apply up to 15% of an award toward administrative costs. Tier 1 grants will provide up to $35,000 per project and the application period opens Aug. 15. This is a rolling grant program, and applications are accepted throughout the year.
Community Support grants fund capital projects and programmatic projects with broad community impact. The grants are intended for requests between $35,000 and $250,000. Capital requests will be approved quarterly, while non-capital/ programmatic requests will be reviewed twice a year. Grants of this size do not require an invitation to apply,
and organizations can access the application starting Aug. 15.
The Foundation anticipates awarding 150-175 Tier 1 grants and 10-20 Community Support grants annually. Program details, application tips, and frequently asked questions are also available at rasmuson.org.
A three-day certified pesticide applicator training course is scheduled for Jan. 28-30, with a second course planned for April 22-24.
Both courses will be taught by the University Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service via Zoom and are available statewide. Each class will meet from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is designed to help participants understand and pass the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation exam.
The state of Alaska requires certification for anyone who purchases, uses or sells restricted-use pesticides. Anyone who acts as a pesticide consultant, engages in the commercial or contract use of pesticides or supervises their use at a public location also must be certified. Category descriptions can be found on the Alaska DEC Pesticide Control Program website.
A $75 fee includes study materials available at Extension offices. Contact mjohansson@alaska.edu .The materials will be mailed for an additional $25.
Register for each course via this online form. Participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the materials and required math beforehand. For more information, contact Phil Kaspari at pnkaspari@alaska.edu or 907-895-4215.
The deadline to register for the January class is Jan. 21. Deadline for the April class is April 15.
Sullivan Announces Fentanyl Awareness Competition for Alaska High School Students Competition Details:
What: Studentsare to launch a “One Pill Can Kill” media campaign to reach high school students. The campaign can reach students in a variety of ways: posters in hallways, advertisements in student newspapers, or videos on social media are a
few examples. Creativity is key.
The campaigns should use the “One Pill Can Kill” messaging and highlight the dangers of fentanyl, the risks of non-prescription drug use, and the importance of staying informed and seeking help.
Who: This competition is open to groups of high school students in Alaska. Schools are encouraged to submit one campaign per school but may submit more. Each entry must include at least two students’ participation. Home schooled students may also participate by launching a media campaign that reaches youth in locations other than school, including online.
How: After launching the campaign, contestants must submit a report to Sullivan’s communications team explaining their campaign, how it was executed and what they learned. Keep in mind the judging criteria below. Examples of the campaign’s media materials must be included or linked to in the report.
Judging Criteria: Effectiveness – Is the campaign effective?
Targeted Audience – Does the campaign reach the intended audience?
Messaging – Does the campaign incorporate the theme of “One Pill Can Kill – Alaska?” Creativity – Is the campaign innovative?
Accuracy – Are the facts about fentanyl and its risks correct and well-researched?
Lessons Learned – Does the report explain what they learned from the experience?
Prize:
While all campaigns will be featured on Sullivan’s website, the winning campaign will work with Sullivan’s communications team to design public service announcements featured as part of the statewide “One Pill Can Kill – Alaska” campaign and will be shared on Sullivan’s social media channels and offered for distribution to local television, radio, and print media.
Timeline: Submission Deadline: Feb. 28, 2025
Winners Announced: March 14, More information is here: https:// www.sullivan.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/one_pill_can_kill_competition_one_pager.pdf
CLASSIFIEDS
AK 99840.
FOR SALE: Hand-crafted cargo sleigh, 36”hx126”lx44”w, has compensator front hitch as well as rear pulling hitch. Built-in back covered storage
December 4, 2024
SKAGWAY SCHOOL DISTRICT REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
EXTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES 2025-2027
The Skagway School District is requesting proposals for audit services for the Skagway School District for the fiscal years 2025 through 2027. Award of the contracts will be based upon the experience in auditing, experience and qualifications of staff who will be assigned to the Skagway School District’s audit, firm’s knowledge of work to be performed including tax and non-audit services and fee structure. Firm and staff must be in compliance with the requirements of the Government Accounting Standards Board. Detailed information and a
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REQUEST FOR BIDS/PROPOSALS FOR SALE
copy of the proposal package is attached or can be obtained from the Skagway School District Offices located at 1563 Main Street, Skagway, Alaska. Questions regarding this project may be directed to Cindy O’Daniel, Business Manager, at (907) 983-2960 (phone), (907) 9832964 (fax), or by e-mail, busmgr@ skagwayschool.org.
Proposals must be received by January 24, 2025 by 4:00pm Alaska Time. Fax and e-mail proposals will not be accepted. The District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. The Skagway School District is not responsible for any costs incurred in the preparation of proposals. The Skagway School District is an equal opportunity employer.
BULLETIN BOARD
Weather Watch
SKAGWAY WORSHIP DIRECTORY
Assembly of God Church 8th & State • 907-983-2350 Sun. Worship....................11 a.m. Wed. Bible Devotions & Prayer 7 p.m. Email skagwayag@outlook.com
First Presbyterian Church 5th & Main • 983-2260 Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Online access available
12/07 44 26 .00 12/08 40 24 .00 12/09 32 24 T
Call 983-2665
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 11th & State • 983-2518 Sun. Sacrament Meeting...10 a.m. St. Therese Catholic Church 9th & State • 983-2271 Sun. Mass..........5 p.m. October - April (when a priest is available)
Paw Prints
By Katherine Moseley
Here are some cold weather tips for you and your pets. Some dog breeds, especially northern breeds, do just fine in the cold. These tips are for all the others that need a little extra help.
If your pet must be outside for any period of time, please make sure they have adequate shelter - that it is well insulated, dry and provides protection from the wind.
If your dog wears a jacket or sweater, make sure that it fits appropriately and that it has a comfortable lining to prevent chafing. Regularly washing your dog’s gear can help prevent odors.
Protect your dog’s paws. Consider using pet safe balms (Musher’s Secret or google DIY recipes) and/or booties. Apply balm before and after walks. Keeping the hair trimmed between the toes for some breeds can help prevent snowballs from forming and help with traction.
Nail health is important. Long nails not only cause discomfort but can affect joint health, posture, and balance. Dogs are more prone to broken nails in the winter. Regular nail trims can help prevent injury. Adding fish or krill oil to the diet can help keep nails strong. Or you can feed sardines canned in water a few times a week. Keep an eye on the Paws and Claws Animal Shelter’s Facebook page to learn about upcoming nail trim clinics.
Make sure your pet has access to fresh, unfrozen water at all times. I recommend adding water or broth to their food. If buying store bought broth, be sure to check the label to make sure there are no onions. You can make a big batch of bone broth and freeze
in ice cube trays for later use. Did you know dogs can drink tea? We like to add cooled chamomile or nettle tea to our dog’s food. Nettle helps support the kidneys (important in the winter) and chamomile can be relaxing. All dogs are different so be sure to research what teas would be best and safe for your pets. Don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated too!
I recommend taking shorter walks during cold snaps (below zero temps). Be sure to keep active on your walks. Movement helps keep you and your pet warm. Avoid icy areas.
To help keep your pets entertained and prevent cabin fever, have indoor sniffaris. Hide treats for them to find or their favorite toy. A good time to teach a new trick or do reps of an old trick. Playing with your dog or cat is good for both parties. A game of tug for dogs. Or a toy on a string for cats. Giving safe bones or stuffed Kongs can also help pass the time. Never feed cooked or smoked bones. They can splinter and injure your dog.
Goggles help keep your eyes protected in the cold. The wind can be especially harsh. Layering clothing can help trap warmth. Be sure to cover exposed skin on below zero days.
Happy lights and an appropriate dose of vitamin D (check with your health care provider) for humans can help during this time of year. Ask your veterinarian about testing your pet’s vitamin D levels to see if supplementation is necessary.
Our pets can help us through dark times. Staying healthy so we can be good caretakers is important. If your mental health is struggling, please reach out to Dahl Memorial Clinic at 907-983-2255 or Taiya Counseling at 907-983-2459. There is no shame in asking for help.
Being safe is a top priority, but don’t forget to get out and have some fun with your pets this winter.
WIRELESS SERVICE, INCLUDING LIFELINE, AVAILABLE FROM GCI
GCI is designated by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier to provide wireless service, including Lifeline, throughout the service areas of the following incumbent local exchange carriers: ACS of Alaska, ACS of Anchorage, ACS of Fairbanks, ACS of the Northland, Adak Eagle Enterprises, Arctic Slope Telephone Assoc. Coop., Alaska Telephone Co., Bristol Bay Telephone Co., Bush-Tell, Copper Valley Telephone Coop., Cordova Telephone Coop., Interior Telephone Co., Ketchikan Public Utilities, Matanuska Telephone Assoc., Mukluk Telephone Co., Nushagak Telephone Coop., OTZ Telephone Coop., United KUC, United Utilities and Yukon Telephone Co. GCI offers a variety of wireless voice calling plans starting at $10/mo and voice calling and data plans starting at $50/month. Qualifying low-income residential customers may be eligible for a Lifeline rate of $1.00/month. In areas where GCI has deployed 2G, 3G, LTE, and 5G wireless technology, GCI offers 12GB of data as part of its Lifeline service. Lifeline is a government assistance program that provides a discount for phone service, is non-transferable, is only available to eligible customers who must provide documentation of eligibility and is limited to one per household, whether wireline or wireless. Prices do not include taxes, fees and surcharges. GCI does not charge an initial installation or activation fee. These calling plans include the required “supported services” defined in state regulation at 3 AAC 53.499(13). Further information about rates, coverage and service availability is available at gci.com or by calling 1-800-800-4800 (residential) or 1-800-800-7754 (business).
Skeeter, Ivy and Tilly model their cold weather gear. The three savvy pups belong to the Moseleys.
