The People's Paper April 2019 by The Peoples Paper

“This event is focused on creating soft and bright fleece blankets for needy children in the area... The end result is a lovely and functional blanket that is given to the Children’s Place, which will then give it to one of the children in crisis who come through their doors.”

Contributed by Eva Cohnen-Brown Spring time is making itself felt in many ways throughout the Valley, be it with warmer weather, melting snowpack and the beginning of trees budding out. Another surefire sign: school’s almost over for the year, which means the annual Kiwanis Fleece Fandango is about to occur. What is the Fandango all about? This event is focused on creating soft and bright fleece blankets for needy children in the area. A “party” with a theme, in so many words. In this case, volunteers attend a very crafty get-together: measuring fleece material, trimming the rough edges, cutting the material into thin strips, and then tying the strips into knots. Students from high school Key Clubs as well as elementary school K-Kids

take part in this worthy cause, as do adult Kiwanis members. The end result is a lovely and functional blanket that is given to the Children’s Place, which will then give it to one of the children in crisis who come through their doors. This is sometimes the only item a child can take with him or her to their next home, and the blanket’s warmth and fuzzy texture, along with its bright and whimsical design, bring much comfort and solace to a wounded heart. Now in its seventh year, the fleece project is one of Kiwanis’ main service events, and one of the only ones that include all local branches of this organization. It’s truly a crossgenerational time of learning, fun and fellowship. There have been well over a hundred blankets donated during

the program’s first six years, and many more are on the way. A big thank you to all who have helped make this program a success!

Mat-Su Valley Cancer Center Presents the WLTGO Wellness Expo With Dozens of Local Vendors! at the Palmer Train Depot April 27th – 10AM to 3:00PM

Kiwanis meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays at Turkey Red Restaurant in the Event Room, at 550 S. Alaska Street, Palmer. We have a variety of interesting speakers, representing local volunteer and business groups. The first few Tuesdays of each month are lunch meetings, held from 12:001:00 pm. The last two Tuesdays of each month are evening meetings, held from 6:00-7:00 pm. Meetings are open to everyone, and you don’t have to be a member to attend. For more information, please check out our Facebook site - Kiwanis Club of Palmer Alaska - and the Kiwanis homepage at www.kiwanis.org

Who Let the Runners Out 5K Starts @ Palmer Train Depot Registration Opens by 4:30 April 26th – 6PM to 7:30PM

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Contributed by Susan Skvorc Tennis in the Mat Su is about to begin! Spring has arrived early this year and it’s time for tennis. Big things are about to happen in the Mat-Su Valley tennis world. If you have been around twenty years or so, you might know that there used to be a tennis court at Colony High School. Now that varsity tennis has made it to valley sports world, Colony Coach Susan Brunner has succeeded in getting the Mat Su Borough School District to pay for returning the crumbling former court to its former glory. Ground breaking will begin this May and the school team will play on it this fall. The court will also be available for use by the public. Until then, the Mat-Su Tennis Association is sponsoring a number of fun opportunities to learn and play tennis this summer. Starting with our Spring Play Day, on May 19 at the Palmer tennis courts from 2 – 4, the club members will offer skills instruction, tournament play and pick-up games for all ages. Join us for the play day May 19, march in the Colony Days parade with us on June 8, and sign up your children, ages 6 – 10 for Quick Start lessons at Wasilla courts June 17-21 each day at 10 a.m.

Starting Tuesday, May 28 we will host round robin style games for all comers, each week through Aug. 8. Just show up at the Wasilla tennis courts Tuesdays at 9:00 am and/or Palmer courts on Thursdays at 6:30 pm. All level players are welcome. Come and meet new friends and enjoy a few friendly games. At the end of June, look for our wooden tennis racquet tournament on at 2:00 pm Sunday the 30th. Wear your tennis whites, bring your old wooden racquet, have some strawberries and cream and warm up for Wimbledon!

invisible wounds from war. With your support, BD is here to help. BD creates unique, Alaskan-based experience camps which are a place of sanctuary and camaraderie for combat Veterans suffering with post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries, and other combat related injuries. BD is based out of Talkeetna, Alaska and is a safe and effective place to reset and reintegrate. Contributed by Jessy Lakin Mark your calendar! Battle Dawgs’ Golf Scramble will be on May 31st, at Settlers Bay Golf Course in Wasilla, Alaska. We are expecting approximately 144 golfing patriots, and we need your help to make this the best scramble of the year! Battle Dawgs (BD) is a non-profit [501(c)3] organization dedicated to providing outdoor rehabilitative programs for our nation’s struggling veterans. Although home from the battlefield, 20% of America’s combat veterans are still fighting, fighting to heal their

Contributed by Kim Medlock “Who Let the Girls Out” Small Quilt Silent Auction features items made by members of the Valley Quilters Guild.

For more information about our organization or to become a member, go to our website at www.matsutennis.org, or visit our Facebook page at Matsu Tennis Association.

We will be hosting the 1st Golf Scramble of 2019, in an effort to fundraise for direct camp operational costs. This golf scramble will be fun for all skill levels and provide opportunities for community networking. Our goal for this scramble is $20,000, in an effort to fund one of our many camps offered in 2019. Many different sponsorship levels are offered! I am requesting your assistance in making this event a success, which is dependent on the sponsors’ creative

bids will need to be picked up by 5:00pm on April 27, at the Palmer Depot, or the items will be shipped to the winning bidder at the expense of the winner.

Our members were challenged to make items with the theme “Who Let the Girls Out” and will include items such as: quilted table runners, wall hangings, purses, mini quilts, and much more.

The Valley Quilters Guild, Inc. is a non-profit organization and was formed in 1985, to promote quilting in the Matanuska Valley. Our main objectives are service to our community and the education of quilters.

The Silent Auction starts Friday, April 26, and ends at 4:00pm Saturday, April 27, 2019, at the Palmer Depot. The public is welcome, and there is no fee to attend the Silent Auction. All winning

We serve the community by donating quilts to organizations and groups who approach us with their needs. All funds raised at our Small Quilt Silent Auction will be used to support the activities of the Guild.

and interesting involvement during the tournament. We encourage hole sponsorships to be engaged during the event by creating a fun new twist to your hole. With your sponsorship, you’ll be making a tax-deductible contribution that will help this worthwhile cause. Additionally, you’ll benefit from exposure of your company’s name to those who attend. Donors will be listed on the event program, and any promotional displays you provide will be placed in key areas around the event. Your company will also receive acknowledgment on BD’s Facebook page and website. Your support will provide critical resources for the Warriors that seek our help. After all they have sacrificed, it’s the least we can do! If you have any questions about Battle Dawgs or our annual auction fundraiser, please contact me at (907) 982-6924 or jennifer@battledawgs. org. Thank you!

Want to become a member or donate? You can visit our website at www.valleyquiltersguild.com or find us on Facebook and Instagram

www.makeasceneak.com/wltgo

COMMUNITY & EVENTS Contributed by Josh Fryfogle 9th Annual Who Let the Girls Out April 26th & 27th, 2019 All Around Palmer! Over the course of nearly nine years, I’ve written more than a few articles about the cooperative, community event, ‘Who Let the Girls Out?’ Every year, something different emerges - a new theme that I can see develop over the course of the planning process.

information from each business as a comprehensive guide in Make A Scene Magazine (inserted inside The People’s Paper, guide starts on page 7). People use the guide, with its listings and map of participating shops, to plan their day! Some events are longstanding, that people expect to attend year after year, and some are new and different.

This year, for me, that theme was curiosity. While many might have heard of the event, and thousands have attended, there are always those who are just discovering it, and realizing its tradition. They’ve heard of it, so they ask, “What is it?” The underlying goal of this event was to take a traditionally slow time for downtown Palmer shops, and help them pay their rent for the month. A noble, simple goal, and with a straightforward method. Each participating business does something special that day, their own event, special, demonstration - whatever - and we publish that

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dollars in value! The music at this event seems to be growing all the time, and this year is no different. We have an incredible lineup of talent, facilitated by multiple local music promoters (of which I am one), each bringing a different type of musical experience for those in attendance. It’s hard to believe, but next year will be our tenth year of working together, as a community, to create an event that actually reflects the will of those involved. That’s inspiring to me. To see a consensus take shape, and a community take action to realize the same. www.makeasceneak.com/wltgo

To add an element of competition to our shopping event, many years ago we introduced the WLTGO Stamp Pass! This allowed people to use the map in the guide to try to visit every shop on the route - turning in their WLTGO Stamp Pass at the end of the event. The drawing for the prize package is held the following day, and it’s filled with donations from those local shops, totaling thousands of

Contributed by Carol Montgomery Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS) is a great place for kids and adults to learn and be inspired, whether your interest is science and technology or art, VCRS has much to offer. You may have been to the drive through to drop off your recyclables at VCRS, but have you ever been inside the building? Next time you come, before you head into the drop off area, go straight ahead to the gravel parking area just past the greeter’s booth. The entrance is easy to find. Visitors are always welcome whenever VCRS is open. You are welcome to ask for a tour, or for information to help you with your recycling. The classroom, to your left as you enter the building, serves as a display for local products made from re-purposed material. You can see purses, hats, yard art and much more, made from all kinds of used materials, including: aluminum cans, plastic film, even used juice packets. The classroom also contains a lending library with books and movies. Pick up a Nature Trail Guide or Scavenger Hunt and enjoy the nature walk in back of the building. This short trail is decorated with imaginative recycled art. The Trail Guide helps you identify native vegetation and a culturally modified birch tree (find out more in the VCRS Library). The Valley Arts Alliance meets at VCRS every Thursday to find inspiration for such projects as the Wearable Arts Show, Glenn Massey Theater’s Trees of the Valley Christmas display, and the Recycled Yard Art competition at the State Fair. Recently, a class was held on making decorative picture frames from aluminum cans. Like the Facebook page to stay informed of future events. VCRS is popular for school field trips. Visits can be tailored to whatever the class is learning in school. Students can look through the classroom window to the processing area below, discover how landfills operate, learn how the different

types of materials are made, how they are recycled, and practice sorting them. VCRS even has a curriculum for teachers that meets State Standards in several subject areas. Interested in learning how renewables work, or how to reduce energy costs in your home? VCRS was the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) certified building in the Valley, at the Gold level. A transparent section of drywall reveals the super thick Thermo-Kool insulation that reduces heating costs. Thermo-Kool is a local Valley manufacturing company that turns recycled newspaper and cardboard into insulation. Solar panels can be seen on the south side of the building. The wind generator is currently off line due to damage from a severe wind storm., but an anemometer is still in place. Software was installed to capture and publically share energy generation data. www. valleyrecycling.org/about-us/ourgreen-building - so you can evaluate these technologies for yourself. Interested in your own carbon footprint? The website even has a carbon footprint calculator. www. valleyrecycling.org/resources/ carbon-calculator Perhaps you have heard of promising new technology that can turn plastics back to oil. A small demonstration model of this technology is available in the classroom along with a poster showing what VCRS has learned from its research with this technology. This is the final article in a series about VCRS. Previous articles told the remarkable history of recycling in the Valley, How recycling works, and why diverting material from the landfill is so important. Those can be found

going to www.makeasceneak.com and searching for “VCRS”. In view of what you may have recently heard about China’s Green Wall, and the subsequent worldwide recycling crisis, VCRS is proud to report that none of its products will end up in a landfill. In spite of this crisis, VCRS has committed U.S. manufacturers who will buy their products because of their quality. However, the prices for materials have dropped so low that in some cases they don’t even cover costs. As a result, VCRS began the Sustain Campaign, asking for contributions to provide a safety net, to cover operations when the markets go down like this, and unexpected events, such as equipment failures happen. With its building, equipment and new baler, VCRS is set to handle 5 times what it now collects, so it can meet the demands of the Valley’s rapid growth for years to come and is a great investment. You can donate to this campaign by searching Facebook for “Sustain Campaign with VCRS”. Personally, I hope you do. I wrote this series of articles because I’ve been a volunteer for VCRS for the past 10 years, and I’ve never worked with an organization that is more productive. I think VCRS is an example of the Valley at its best – the product of selfreliance, hard work, and persistent dogged determination, by a small group of devoted staff and countless volunteers. It is truly remarkable what they have accomplished. I hope these articles have helped make people more aware of that fact. I think VCRS is a treasure worth saving. I hope you agree.

HEALTH & COMMUNITY Contributed by Dori Cranmore RN Mullein, or Verbascum thapsus, is native to Europe and Asia, but has been well established throughout the United States. Today it grows frequently in disturbed soil, such as abandoned fields, roadsides and railroads. It is easily found along the Pacific Maritime region of Alaska. The leaves are mostly used for tea and tinctures, but the flowers and root can also be used. It has been reported since the early 1900’s to help with coughing, lung weakness, respiratory constriction and chest colds. It is quite literally one of the best lung healing herbs out there. One study of over ninety herbs concluded that mullein is in the top three for nutrition value. Calcium

Contributed by Tony Delarm Vaping has changed over the last few years, if you haven’t noticed. We’ve gone from simple press a button with a light, to having enough modifications to fill an entire 8’ cabinet. So why do we have all these modifications? Surely, everyone is the same right? Of course, we aren’t, and as a result we have options for those that wish to get away from cigarettes and move towards the future of vaping. Batteries are the power source of your vaping unit and can either be internal or external with the latter being a unit

and magnesium in abundance along with flavonoids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, glycosides, carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oils. Mullein contains about 3 percent mucilage, a gelatinous substance that soothes irritated membranes in the body. Mullein’s saponins help the body remove excess mucus from the lungs and soothes the mucus membranes with its emollient properties. Clemson University confirmed the antibacterial properties of mullein. In 2002, these researchers reported that mullein extracts are effective against several species of diseasecausing bacteria including Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli more commonly known as E. coli.

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inflammations and infections in the ears, colon, urinary tract, vaginal yeast infections and kidneys. Skin infections can respond quickly to a mullein poultice when applied externally. It can help calm bursitis by using a cloth soaked in Mullein tea or a poultice placed over the painful joint. Some have reported mullein tea and poultices can help relieve aching joints by adding lubrication to the surrounding tissues. Many will recognize Mullein from the soothing natural remedy oil for ear pain. Many times, it is mixed with garlic oil to help kill bacteria. The mullein helps with the pain. People also use mullein oil to naturally treat their dog’s ear infections and other health problems with success.

With the slight anesthetic and very strong sedative actions of mullein, it can be used to relieve various types of pains, including menstrual cramps. Mullein oil is a potent disinfectant and found to be effective in treating both internal and external infections. Internally it has been known to treat

Upper respiratory problems like sore throats, dry coughs, hoarseness, tonsillitis or bronchitis respond well to capsules or drinking the mullein tea.

you can remove and “switch” while the internal is something that stays with the unit it’s entire life. When we go to look at external options, typically the batteries are rechargeable and are made of a variety of elements including magnesium, cobalt, manganese, or nickel.

which would obviously provide more power. So which one is best for you? As with most things, safety is our concern here...

Like most batteries, they come with a positive and negative end, with the negative end being flat and the positive side having the traditional raised terminal. When it comes to size, vaping external batteries are typically what’s called a “18650”, which is broken into two parts, the diameter “18mm” and the length “65mm”. Variations in this would make a battery bigger, such as the “26650”,

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Mullein even helps asthma sufferers with its soothing effect on the bronchioles. Of course, severe allergic

“The key is the ‘amp limit’ of the battery. This tells you the most current you can ask for from the battery to stay within its safety limits... On battery specs, the piece of information you need is the “maximum continuous current” rating of the battery. This is a number in amps (A) and it tells you how much current the battery can safely provide on a continuous basis. You can look this up for your specific battery online, but the information should also be available at the store you bought the battery from.” (Johnson, L. 2019) And of course, that’s what we recommend if you feel that this

reactions may require a doctor’s intervention. Mullein leaf has also been reported to be used for hyperthyroidism and to reduce glandular inflammation. Tribes in Pakistan reportedly use the mullein to rid the body of parasites. A cup of mullein tea before going to bed could be a perfect natural solution for a good night’s sleep. Dori Cranmore RN is owner of All About Herbs, Inc. This information is provided for educational purposes only and not intended to treat or cure any disease.

information is over your head. We pride ourselves, at Alaskan Sweet Vapes, on educating our consumers on how to properly and safely use their vape. We are happy to help you find the perfect battery and explain more if you need help! That’s it for this month, catch our monthly articles right here in The People’s Paper and online at aksweetvapes.com. Have a great month!

COMMUNITY Contributed by John Rozzi Did you know that an active program to recognize and combat homelessness in the Mat-Su started in the summer of 2012?

many of us automatically picture a person that panhandles, pushes a shopping cart and lives in a tent. Although true, most of the people we have assisted are fellow neighbors who hit a rough patch.

This program entitled,” Neighbor to Neighbor: A Community Solution to Homelessness,” has helped thousands of residents at risk of homelessness; or already homeless, to secure housing.

Unfortunately, for many of our Mat-Su Valley neighbors, living paycheck to paycheck is not uncommon. And a situation like a car repair or reduced work hours puts the family at risk of homelessness because they’re short on money to pay the rent.

What Homelessness looks like in the Mat-Su Valley: When we hear the word homeless,

Additionally, this grant program has assisted a large population of residents at risk of homelessness or

Contributed by Michele Harmeling, Outreach Coordinator

medical sharps or medical waste.) United Way of Mat-Su is now accepting applications for the 2019 THRIVE MatSu Youth Retreat. Held at beautiful North Star Bible Camp in Willow, AK, the Youth Retreat is open to students ages 12-18.

As spring approaches, we’re excited to spread the word about upcoming community events and important dates. Of particular importance is the extended deadline for earthquake assistance from FEMA. Those affected by the November 30 disaster now have until MAY 31 to apply using the online portal, by visiting the Disaster Recovery Center nearest you, or by calling the disaster hotline. Please remember to list the date of incident as NOVEMBER 30, 2018 when completing forms. www.disasterassistance.gov Wasilla Disaster Recovery Center: Christ First United Methodist Church, 5137 W Fairview Lp., Wasilla Disaster Assistance Hotline: 1-800-621-3362 Spring Drug Take-Back Day is Saturday, April 27th. Valley residents may bring unused and expired drugs and medications to either Fred Meyer pharmacy location (Wasilla and Palmer) for safe disposal. Talkeetna area residents may visit the Talkeetna Sunshine Community Health Clinic. This event runs from 10AM-3PM at all locations. Help prevent misuse of prescription drugs and keep our community safe by marking your calendar for Drug Take-Back Day! (Please note that we cannot accept

Contributed by Sarah Viola A loved one looking at dementia and its symptoms from the outside has a much different perspective on the disease than a person who is living with it. As a person progress through various types and stages of dementia, they begin to view the world differently than they once did. Understanding how people with dementia experience the world around them can help bring valuable insight to their caregivers and loves ones - and assist them in developing a better sense of patience, empathy, and understanding. A VIEW FROM THE CAREGIVER: My loved one is so withdrawn. She rarely interacts with the world. She used to be so lively and full of energy, but now she just sits there and doesn’t even care if I come visit anymore. Does she need anything from me?

This event is free of charge, but space is limited. In past years, the retreat has included workshops on self-care, resilience, youth leadership, outdoor skills, community service, and plenty of time swimming or boating on the lake. Text YOUTHRETREAT to 51555 to receive your application via mobile. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and each student will be contacted regarding their status. Please submit your application by May 15th at close of business. Questions, or unable to utilize mobile app? Please call Becky Stoppa at (907)745-5827 or email impact@ unitedwaymatsu.org United Way of Mat-Su is hard at work organizing our 2019 Week of Caring projects! Week of Caring, you may ask? To reach and connect as many community volunteers and local nonprofits as possible, we have extended our Day of Caring service projects to encompass May 20-May 23, 2019. If you are a nonprofit agency with a project to complete, or a community volunteer who is seeking volunteer hours, look no further! United Way of Mat-Su will connect you with each

Some days it feels pointless to come visit because my loved one no longer recognizes me, she just stares blankly at me when I speak to her. She seems to enjoy some of the things I do for her. I hear from others about good things that happen, but I don’t often see them myself. It breaks my heart to see my loved one in such a vulnerable place. I hate dementia! Why did this have to happen? What’s left? A VIEW FROM A PERSON WITH DEMENTIA: I am still here! I think my loved ones believe I don’t want them around, but I do. Sometimes I get confused and can’t remember who they are exactly, but I love seeing their warm, comforting, happy, and familiar faces. Having them present brings me a sense of security, but I’m not able to show it very well. This is frustrating for me because I just want to interact and be present, but I’m

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already homeless, who are single unaccompanied youth (18-24) or adults. Looking Ahead: In the coming weeks, I would like to continue corresponding with you about topics regarding Homelessness in the Mat-Su Valley. Areas I’m going to address are “Defining Homelessness or being Homeless,” “Solutions to Homelessness,” “Not in My Back Yard,” and others.

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residents avoid being homeless: Alaska Family services, Blood-N-Fire Ministries, Daybreak, Inc., Family Promise, MyHouse and Salvation Army, in addition to Valley Charities, Inc. And thank you to the landlords and property owners for making affordable housing available over the past seven years. Without your partnerships, we could not have been successful. Additionally, thank you to the churches, volunteers and advocates for this cause.

Collaboration is Huge: I wanted to extend a big thank you to the following Mat-Su Agency Partners who have collaborated to help many

John Rozzi is the CEO of Valley Charities, Inc.; Serves as the Operating Board Chair of the MatSu Coalition on Housing and Homelessness.

other. Those interested in submitting a project for Week of Caring 2019 should submit contact information and a brief description of your needs. If you are interested in volunteering, please tell us about your interests and any applicable skills or needs. Requests may be sent to Nick Jenkins, Development Director, at give@ unitedwaymatsu.org. Questions? Please call (907) 745-5822.

Blitz the Seahawk. Bid on a wide array of amazing auction items, including autographed swag, VIP game day package, and Alaska Airlines tickets! All proceeds benefit both the Mat-Su Seahawkers and United Way of MatSu’s youth programs in the Valley. To purchase tickets, text Seahawks to 41444. Questions? Please call Michele Harmeling at (907) 745-5824 or email admin@unitedwaymatsu.org

Registration for this year’s Play60 Challenge with the Seattle Seahawks will open on April 9! Valley youth ages 6-13 are invited to attend this popular activity day, meet new friends, and try a new sport. This event costs $10 per youth, but registration is limited to the first 300 applicants, so don’t wait!

Did you know that the Early Childhood Partnership of Mat-Su now offers FREE workshops in ACEs, Hope & Resilience? ACEs (adverse childhood experiences) affect nearly two-thirds of adults, but there is always hope! This course is designed to be an overview of ACEs, brain science, and the science of hope and resiliency, for individuals, small groups, or groups of childcare staff. CEUs may be available upon request.

Lunch will be provided, and youth are encouraged to wear clean shoes with non-marking soles and comfortable clothes to get active in. Play60 will be held at the Menard Center on Thursday, June 27. Applications may be submitted via the Mat-Su Seahawkers website at www.matsuseahawkers.org Questions? Please contact Nick Jenkins at (907)745-5822. Volunteers are welcome! Tickets for Wednesday Night Football with players from the Seattle Seahawks are now on sale! Join us for a tailgatestyle dinner and auction fundraiser, Wednesday, June 26 from 6:30-8:30pm, at the Palmer Elks Lodge.

If you are interested in scheduling a presentation for your location or group, please contact the Early Childhood Partnership at (907)745-5824 or admin@unitedwaymatsu.org To receive updates like these each month, sign up for the United Way of Mat-Su newsletter! Visit our website at www.unitedwaymatsu.org, or email admin@unitedwaymatsu.org to be added to our mailing list. Find us on Facebook: @unitedwaymatsu

Meet and greet players from the Seattle Seahawks, with special appearance by

not able to communicate that to them. I want to thank them for loving me, for visiting me, for understanding - but I just can’t get the words to make sense anymore.

of joy. Often my emotions begin to flow, whether laughing or crying, and I just love interactions that allow me to express them. It helps me to still feel I matter.

My joints are getting stiffer now since I’m not able to move them like I used to, and I need a lot of help with everything including caring for myself. My world is so big and fast paced that it is all a big blur. I appreciate when caregivers and loved ones take the time to go slower so I can follow what is happening. Since my communication is limited, I like it when loved ones bring me into a conversation or activity in a way that allows me to use my senses. I enjoy the time they spend helping me move and stretch so I can be more comfortable. I especially appreciate it when they play music or sing to me, because music brings be back to times of old and fills me full

This is the last of a three-part series about dementia. As you can most likely tell from the series, your loved one with dementia views and experiences the world much differently than you do. The goal is to allow them to experience their world in the way that feels successful for them. Try to look at the world from their perspective and not your own. This is the key to fostering the joyful moments you may be missing. If you have further questions that need answers, Primrose would be honored to assist you. Just visit our website at www.primroseretirement.com for more info.

ADULT PIANO LESSONS Hitchcock Piano Studio ........ 745-3134 APPAREL & CLOTHING All Seasons Clothing ........ 357-0123 D’s Tuxedo ........ 707-6585 Mila’s Alterations ........ 830-8339 ART & CRAFTS Artists Uncorked… 982-2675 The Gallery ........ 745-1420 BOOKSTORE A Black Sheep Shop ......... 376-8198 Black Birch Books ...... 373-2677 Fireside Books ........ 745-2665 CAFÉ & COFFEE Alaska Artisan Coffee ........ 745-5543 Gathering Grounds ........ 376-4404 Vagabond Blues……..745-2233 CANNABIS RETAILER Matanuska Cannabis Co. ...... 745-4211 CREATIVE ENTERTAINMENT Artists Uncorked ........ 982-2675 EDUCATION Learning Essentials ........ 357-3990 FOOTWEAR Northern Comfort ........ 376-5403 HEALTH & WELLNESS All About Herbs ........ 376-8327 Just Botanicals ....... 414-3663 Lone Wolf Aura ........ 631-0482 HOME DÉCOR Peak Boutique ........ 746-3320 PIZZA Humdingers Pizza ........ 745-7499 PHLEBOTOMY SERVICES Valley Phlebotomy ........ 376-6435 PRINT SERVICES The UPS Store ........ 746-6245 REPAIR, RESTORATION Comtronics ........ 373-2669 S&S Drilling ...... 746-0225 The Powdercoat Shop .... 841-1300 SPECIALTY GIFTS Alaska Midnite Scents ........ 357-7364 Non-Essentials ........ 745-2258 The Boardwalk Shop ........ 357-8980 TANNING The Tanning Hut ........ 376-3324 THRIFT SHOPS Steam Driven Boutique ........ 376-4404 Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Stores ........ 376-5708 TOYS Just Imagine Toys ........ 357-1543 Learning Essentials .......... 357-3990

OPINION / POLITICS Contributed by Josh Fryfogle Alaska’s state law has decided, since 2014, that we will tax the newly legalized cannabis industry. In fact, they’ve made it their business - our business - to regulate this young industry. The logic behind this - and the propaganda campaign that the public was given to hasten this along - is that cannabis should be treated like alcohol, for presumably the same reasons. Alcohol has a known negative impact on society. It’s undeniable, after all, that alcohol contributes to many ills, illustrating a rationale for it’s regulation. The argument made to the public prior to legalization of cannabis was that cannabis was no worse than alcohol - a sentiment that most thinking people can accept - and therefore should be treated like alcohol, regulated and taxed to the benefit of society. The problem with this sentiment is three-fold. First, there is nothing in the actual law that makes this comparison between alcohol and cannabis, and therefore nothing that requires that the regulations of alcohol and cannabis be the same. Second, cannabis is non-toxic, and therefore causes no intoxication. Intoxication, after all, is a state of dysphoria caused by toxicity of a substance introduced into the body. Third, cannabis is not nearly as harmful as alcohol - by any measure. It is true that cannabis is no worse than alcohol, but this suggests that it might be as hazardous as alcohol and that is total nonsense. Recently there has been a discovery in medicine: the endo-cannabinoid system. This system, that deals in cannabinoids that naturally occur in the body, and with those that are consumed as cannabis and other foods, is certainly not being poisoned - as is the case with alcohol consumption, where ethanol molecules interfere with the normal function of the human brain. Let me clarify, I am not against alcohol. Moderation is all things, I say. But if I’m being intellectually honest... The fact is that the endo-cannabinoid system is fully equipped to accept and process all cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, and the hundreds of others, in a healthful and harmonious way. Cannabinoids are not foreign to the body, as is alcohol, and it’s effects are generally oppositional to that of

alcohol intoxication. The fact that both can be consumed with varying effects does nothing to tie them together as similar, any more than coffee and alcohol can be compared. To compare cannabis with the drunken dysphoria of alcohol toxicity is simply, intellectually dishonest. But that is only the beginning of such gross misinformation. Add to that the slang term ‘Marijuana’ that the state has enshrined in the law, rather than the plant’s taxonomical name ‘cannabis’, and the continued propaganda is made more clear. But the cement that solidifies this misinformation model adopted by the state - the icing on the cake of contrived controversy - is the disclaimer. Every time an Alaskan cannabis company markets themselves, they are required to include a lengthy propaganda script that serves to keep cannabis under a cloud of controversy. The state mandates that all cannabis communications with the public include a ready-made disclaimer, which restates the rhetoric of the past. Print ads, radio, even their Facebook posts. This is it: Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming and addictive. Marijuana impairs concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under its influence. There are health risks associated with consumption of marijuana. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding. Keep in mind, this mandatory disclaimer campaign has its largest effect on consumers, which serves to reinforce the countercultural mentality of cannabis consumers, painting a picture of cannabis consumption that is not in keeping with it’s potential as a renewable resource. Cannabis consumers are not the dirty hippy stereotype that has been hoisted on our psyches. The disclaimer is dishonest. While the public is mostly unaware that the ‘Campaign to Regulate Marijuana (sic) Like Alcohol’ was completely separate from, and independent of, the Alaskan Statute

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that was passed into law in 2014, the disclaimer is the state’s primary effort to compare cannabis to alcohol, and perpetuate the demonization of this non-toxic, agricultural crop - and they even make the cannabis industry pay for it! Cannabis is nothing like alcohol. Period. In fact, it would be worthwhile for the state to measure the differences in alcohol related domestic disturbances and drunk driving since cannabis has been available to the general public at these limited retail locations. The regulations, if nothing else, should provide us with solid data. If the data were to suggest that these two problems have decreased, we would at least have reason to reconsider our common cultural treatment of cannabis. The disclaimer is an important piece of keeping the cannabis plant, and all it’s many uses, in the shadows - as it’s prohibition did before. It is important to remind the average Alaskan of our Alaskan history with cannabis. Truthfully, Alaska has always allowed cannabis to be grown, due to privacy laws that are unique to our state. The new laws did not suddenly make cannabis available where it wasn’t available before. In fact, the cannabis culture worldwide has celebrated the Alaskan cannabis culture for decades. The legalization and regulation of cannabis was simply the state wanting in on the action. But a case had to be made to the public - not an honest look at cannabis, but an argument that validated the past propaganda, while also allowing for a change to the law. These ridiculous disclaimers are nothing more than an effort to propagate the 80 year old narrative that this ancient cultivar crop called cannabis is really a weed called marijuana, and that it is somehow, suddenly, dangerous. To disclaim is to deny. It’s to reject any acknowledgement of something. Even the idea of a disclaimer is to continue to denigrate this industry, and even this plant, while also benefitting financially from the same. We don’t need to disclaim cannabis. We need to reclaim it. And we need to proclaim the truth about this very, very old cash crop. Alaskans have always had cannabis flowers to smoke. The law didn’t change that. It’s the rest of the plant - the food, the fiber - that we still aren’t allowed to grow. The dishonest disclaimer helps to keep it that way, just as prohibition of cannabis has done for decades.

OPINION / POLITICS Contributed by Rep. David Eastman Today’s vote in the Alaska House of Representatives has a lot to say about the priorities of Alaska’s current batch of legislators. When it comes to political correctness, they nailed it – bull’s-eye!

instead of one-dollar bills. Recognizing that Alaskans are rather attached to their one-dollar bills, HJR9 also asks Congress to indefinitely fund a marketing campaign to convince Alaskan businesses to use the coins, which have a shelf life of 35 years. Supporters heralded the bill as a heroic stand of solidarity against racism.

When it comes to supporting common sense and the free market – epic fail.

If political correctness made for good policy, I would have been glad to join them and bask in the glory of our having dealt racism another fatal blow.

This morning, two-thirds of the Alaska Legislature voted to pass HJR9, asking Congress to fund the creation of at least $5 million more Elizabeth Peratrovich one-dollar coins and send them to Alaska for Alaskans to use

But HJR9 will do nothing of the kind. This proposal would see millions spent on yet another failed campaign trying to convince Americans to act more like their European neighbors who choose coins in place of dollar bills. How do we know that it will fail? Because taxpayers

Contributed by Alan Larson Many Alaskans are unaware of the Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR) digital bulletin board posting public notices affecting our land rights and public easements. As such, Alaska is being negatively and irreparably harmed. On March 19, 2018, one post sought to erase indigenous history and public access rights, in spite of the Alaska Statutes designed to protect us from such departmental overreaches. Preliminary Decision EV3-271 intentionally was kept out of the public eye by DNR, who never sought to directly contact effected community members ranging from Copper Center to Eklutna, never reached out to local tribes or even reported this decision to the various local representatives or the multiple community councils impacted. Instead, DNR put notice on their virtual bulletin board, where realistically few of Alaskans even know to look. What’s so important about EV-3-271? It effectively eliminates hundreds of years of our State’s history. As a member of an Athabascan tribe, this trail was part of my ancestor’s highway system extending from Copper Center down to the Kenai Peninsula. My family from time immemorial to present extensively used this particular trail, known as the Chickaloon-Knik-Nelchina Trail (CKN). Time immemorial may seem like a far distant memory to cultures outside of Alaska, but to Athabascans, time immemorial is only four generations away. Four generations ago, no white

Contributed by Sandy May Have you ever heard someone passionately tell you all about something they are interested in and you actually get really excited about it yourself? Then, perhaps you hear another side of the very same subject from another friend and you wonder, “Hmm. That sounds right too!” So, here you are – right in the middle. Wondering what the correct story about the same subject truly is. We all see this stuff happening on tv, or on the internet, right? Especially with politics and during election season. It is absolutely crazy sometimes. The best way to handle this is to think for yourself. Research on your own. Make your own decisions. Respect your friends’

man had ever walked these trails. The first documented non-Athabascan to navigate the CKN Trail was Captain Edwin F. Glenn in 1898. It was my ancestors who served as guides on Glenn’s journey. Later, miners would use these routes, and the trail would be identified as a RS 2477 federally protected Right-of-Way (ROW) under the mining law. Protection of these trails was later transferred to the State with provisions to ensure future public access. Unfortunately, the statutes have been reduced through departmental decisions that don’t uphold the intent of the law, effectively allowing DNR the power to erase our heritage with a simple post on a virtual bulletin board. Apparently, it doesn’t matter that DNR previously concluded, “The Alaska Heritage Resources Survey has identified eleven cultural resources within the Moose Range… The trails traversing the Range have been used historically for many years, specifically and most importantly… the Chickaloon-Knik-Nelchina (CKN) Trail.” DNR’s original management strategy from the 1986 Moose Range report also concluded, “All administrative actions within the Moose Range will abide by the Alaska Historic Preservation Act (AS 41.35.010) which calls for the state to preserve and protect the historic, prehistoric, and archaeological resources of the state.” DNR mapped the Heritage Resources, noting “high potential” for the CKN Trail. DNR’s report ultimately concluded, “The ChickaloonKnik-Nelchina Trail should receive priority for placement on the National Register of Historic Places.” In spite of all these facts, DNR is now eliminating part of the CKN Trail. The intent of the

take on the same things. We are adults and that is what we do (or should do anyway!). The Mat Su Republican Women’s Club has been around since 1947 and during our monthly meetings and the many events that we have, one of our main goals is to have timely speakers that are informative on issues that are of interest to the public. Yes, anyone can come to these meetings and events. These are excellent opportunities for you to learn more and make an informed decision. In March, we hosted our annual fundraiser event at Evangelo’s, and we were honored to have Governor Mike Dunleavy as our speaker. He packed the room! His message was honest, loud and clear. He was there the entire time to meet & chat

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

have already wasted a billion dollars trying to sell Americans on one-dollar coins (Source: NPR Story: Fed Sits on a Billion Unwanted Dollar Coins). Do Alaskan lawmakers think that by funding a new marketing campaign they can do better than the last $67.1 million failed marketing campaign? (Source: U.S. General Accounting Office Report: New Dollar Coin Marketing Campaign Raised Public Awareness but Not Widespread Use) Actually, no. Lawmakers are under no such illusion. The HJR9 would require at least 5 million coins to be made, that’s 7 onedollar coins for every man, woman and child in Alaska. A number of lawmakers didn’t mind telling me that it’s a stupid idea, but

RS 2477 statutes and the Alaska Historic Preservation Act are meaningless. RS 2477 protections guarantee public ROWs cannot be eliminated without a public process or without an equivalent trail. While the newer trail looks nice, its ROW has a written section allowing DNR at any time, for any reason to close the ROW without a public process. Essentially, the new trail can be eliminated by a simple departmental decision. This cannot be done on the original trailhead, which is why DNR was supposed to inform the public and receive public input. Additionally, the Alaska Historic Preservation Act states the State has a legal responsibility to protect our historic resources, which includes the cultural heritage embodied in our trails, from loss so they may pass undiminished to future generations. EV-3-271 vacates the original trailhead, eliminating anyone from using it in the future, the exact opposite of the Alaska Historical Preservation Act’s intent. Why would DNR take this contrary position you might wonder? They say for the best interest of public safety, unfortunately DNR didn’t actually consult the Dept. of Public Safety for the facts. In a public information request acquired from the Alaska Dept. of Public Safety, a spreadsheet clearly shows the indigenous trailhead has less of a public safety threat than the newer trailhead. The original trailhead had 13 incidents over an eleven-year period from 2005 to 2016. The new trailhead had 64 incidents, including 1 death, over that same period of time. Considering the facts, concern for public safety cannot be the motivation for DNR’s outrageous decision to

with anyone who would like the opportunity to hear directly from him. Governor Dunleavy has a heart for Alaska and Alaskans. Some groups try to give him exactly the opposite reputation. April has arrived and the Mat Su Republican Women’s Club Est. 1947 will have a general monthly meeting at the Mat Su Family Restaurant on the Parks Hwy. We meet in the back area, from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., on April 20th (if you are buying breakfast, please come early). How long has the Pebble Mine been in the news? How many times have you heard the ‘good’ and the ‘bad’ in the news and from others? This meeting is your chance to hear from Mark Hamilton, V.P of External Affairs for Pebble Mine. He will have an informative presentation for us and a time for questions and answers. This is one of those times to get your own information and make your own decision. If you are on Facebook, check out our Page and like it for more updates and

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that they would have to vote for HJR9 anyway or be attacked for being racist. This is what legislators are hearing: Vote for policies they know will fail and be applauded by Juneau and the Left; Vote against failed policies and be taken to task for not toeing the politically correct party line. Are your legislators listening to you, or are they listening to Juneau? See how your legislator voted: HJR9— Roll Call Vote. http://bit.ly/2JtRx8q Watch the debate: House Floor Debate. http://bit.ly/2Tl9QfI Rep. David Eastman has served in the Alaska State House representing the Mat-Su since 2017; He ran on a platform of fighting for genuine conservative reform, fiscally and socially, and remains committed to delivering on that promise.

eliminate our heritage and protected public ROW. For six years I have been fighting DNR’s encroachment against the public’s rights to use this trail in acquiescence to the new private landowners. While I can partially sympathize with the private property owners as some trail users abused the surrounding lands, most of the abuse was done out of ignorance for two major reasons. First, DNR failed to property identify the trail from private property with signage, and second the private property owners closed off the public ROW putting up dangerous blockades which included nails, barbed wire, chains, and ditches that were an immediate threat to public safety. Many Alaskans have public ROWs traversing through their private property, but they don’t get to decide to close off a road simply because they don’t want it there. Our indigenous trails, later identified as RS2477 trails, have been Alaska’s history. Most major highways and roads navigate alongside or through these original trails. Many more of our trails will become major roads in the future. The State needs to preserve our protected public ROWs and history, not spend thousands of dollars to eliminate them, circumventing the intent of our statutes. The CKN Trail currently serves as the major public access route to the Nelchina Recreation Area, and there is room for more than one trailhead in the area. Our history doesn’t have to be erased.

information. We are still accepting new members for 2019 and invite you to check us out at this meeting and online. We have so many amazing members and associate members as well! Men & some women sign up as associate members and just don’t have club voting privileges. During the Alaska State Fair, our club has a space on the Purple Trail (since 1947!), and our members and associate members all work together sharing smiles, information, & registering voters! Republican candidates, legislators, and local officials hang out at our booth and chat with constituents. Which is just one more avenue for you to do your own research and make your own decisions. Stop by if you haven’t! One of our club’s biggest goals is to help Alaskans have ways to meet and talk to the people. You can certainly learn a lot when you look someone in the eye while you are talking to each other. We hope to see you April 20th!

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

OPINION / POLITICS Contributed by Amber Leggette-Aldrich

book, which was finally accomplished 11 years later.

When I was in high school (back in the dark ages) I absolutely hated English and Literature class. I honestly couldn’t care less about prepositions and dangling participles, or why Edgar Allen Poe and Shakespeare wrote in the styles they did. And I didn’t see the point of learning the difference between AP versus Chicago styles. If anyone had told me back then that I would eventually become an author and freelance writer, I would have laughed in their face!

One of the greatest compliments I’ve ever been given was when a reader said in a review, “You have a great gift of painting a masterpiece in my heart and mind with your words”. The simple act of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and sharing what was in my soul made a connection with someone I have never met or talked to in such a personal way. And that is exactly why I write.

But alas, I did become a wordsmith, even though it was quite by accident. It actually all started with sharing jokes and stories about my children in an obscure online chatroom back in 2001, as an attempt to diffuse tensions caused by differing political views in the group. I never expected the responses I received, followed by requests for more stories and then suggestions to write a

Contributed by Jessica Wright After nearly three years involved in politics, I felt a need to retreat to my previous life where politics were not the main focus. Recently, I grew tired of politics, so whenever my husband told me what happened to the showdown between President Trump and the House, regarding building the wall, or how

Contributed by Jack Hickel Alaska is at a crossroads. Voters need to know our government is redefining the purpose of the Permanent Fund and the Permanent Fund Dividend. The government wants us to believe that the Fund and PFD belong to the government to spend as it wishes. This is wrong. The government is spending our Dividend which is Alaskans’ rightful share of our public oil wealth. Misunderstanding and false information about the Permanent Fund system are widespread. The truth is, Alaska’s founders and the people of Alaska set up the Permanent Fund as a trust fund that belongs to all Alaskans which is funded from the wealth of our commonly-owned oil and mineral resources. We the people amended the Alaska Constitution, allowing for 75% of these royalties to go for government spending, and a small 25% slice of the royalties to go to the Fund. The Fund is a way to save our one-time, non-renewable oil and mineral wealth for current and future generations. As Elmer Rasmuson, a former chairman of the Permanent Fund Corporation said, “The Fund is a constitutional right, not a gift bestowed by a generous government.” The Permanent Fund Dividend comes from the investments of the Permanent Fund, not from taxes. The Fund and the PFD belong to the people. The government would have you believe that the PFD is a welfare program. It

Through the practice of writing, I have witnessed firsthand the power of words. Words can have a strong impact on our hearts, minds, and spirits, in good or bad ways. We can use words as weapons, or we use them as instruments of healing and encouragement. Think about how you react to hearing or reading about a hero saving a puppy from a fire, or how you feel when someone yells obscenities at you in traffic. We all react from an influence on our

the house in our state hasn’t formed the majority party, I kindly reminded him that I need a break. I wasn’t sure how long I want to stay less involved in politics. However, I changed my mind after listening to a story this morning. Our church teacher told us that she got a message on Facebook a few weeks ago. This message was from a girl she met when she served a church mission in Venezuela, twenty-something years ago. This person was a 16-year-old girl

isn’t. It’s our share of our savings. My father, former Governor Walter Hickel, was not an advocate for the PFD at first, but later accepted it. He said, “You, as a resident of Alaska, share in the ownership of 103 million acres of land, all navigable waters and the natural resources our land and water contain. It is your oil, your natural gas, your minerals, your timber, your fish... A portion of your oil royalties are also set aside in the Permanent Fund from which you, as an owner, earn dividends.” If the oil belongs to the people, then so does both the Permanent Fund and the Dividend belong to the people, which is the wealth derived from the oil. An important purpose of the Dividend is to protect the Fund wealth from mismanagement by government. Gov. Hammond and other leaders with vision established the PFD program. These leaders knew that sharing some of the saved wealth in the Permanent Fund via a dividend each year was the best way to keep the Permanent Fund protected from looting down the trail by greedy politicians interested in spending the Fund. Dave Rose, the initial director of the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation, said the greatest threats to the Permanent Fund are the “intense temptations of powerful people (and)… the strongest defense of all is the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend.” Has the Dividend protected the Fund? Yes, until three years ago when politicians started cutting the PFD in almost half, ignoring the PFD law enacted in

emotions to the words we hear or see. I remember arguments with my sister when we were growing up. Whenever tempers were getting too hot and words were about to lead to physical blows, our mother would put down the iron law: “If you can’t say something nice, then keep your mouth shut”. Over the years I have learned the value in her law. When we speak, whether with voice or print, we become a narrator that sets the tone in the mind of the listener. So, when our words are negative, derogatory, or hateful, that is where the emotions of the listener go to, and seldom does it facilitate any goodness. On the other hand, when we use words to encourage, uplift, and edify, it sets the stage for positive growth or change. Last summer I was privileged to witness one of the most heartwarming scenes, when I was visiting family in the south. There was a young man in front of a McDonalds asking passersby for any spare change, so he could get some food. He appeared to be homeless and somewhat depressed, though he managed to smile and give a sincere “thank you” to all that gave change. However,

back then and is now married with two kids. She said her country was in such disarray that she left her country and fled to Colombia. She told her they suffered a great deal after their government got hijacked by the wrong group of people. In closing, she asked her to pray for her country. After the lesson, I told the teacher that I would pray for Venezuela, even though I’m also praying for our country and our state.

1981. Now the whole Permanent Fund system is under attack by raiding politicians. Why is this attack happening? Oil revenues declined and our politicians are hooked on spending. Legislators in both parties continue to spend savings without efforts to use other options for a sustainable budget. They already spent 75% of our oil wealth royalties. But that wasn’t enough, so they have nearly depleted the Budget Reserves by spending over $15 billion from these accounts. That still wasn’t enough, so they withheld over $1 billion for inflation proofing the Permanent Fund which effectively decreases the Fund’s value. That wasn’t enough either. So, they cut your PFD by nearly half, ignoring the law for the past three years. Then in 2018, for the first time the legislature passed a law, SB-26, to access the Permanent Fund Earnings Reserve Account for additional government spending. But this new law has no formula for yearly PFD payments and that makes paying the PFD optional. These raids on the PFD and Permanent Fund are ongoing and threaten the security and growth of Alaskans’ savings. Apparently, our politicians think the Dividend is a slush fund to be spent by the government for the government and not by the people. Cutting the PFD is a regressive tax, hurting the state’s most disadvantaged people the hardest while barely affecting the wealthy. Research shows that cutting the PFD is the worst kind of tax and is the most “adverse of all revenue measures.”

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his greatest response came when a little, red-haired girl came up to him with 2 dandelions in her hand, 1 in full yellow bloom, the other already fuzzy and gone to seed. She handed the young man the yellow flower and said, “This is for you because it is beautiful, like your smile”. Then she handed him the fuzzy one and said, “And this one is for you to make a wish on, and I will pray for your wish to come true”. I would say from the tears in his eyes and the smile on his face, that the kind words and loving gesture of that little girl had more of an impact on the young man than all the change in all the pockets of the people in the city that day. In addition, folks nearby who happened to see her deed were also inspired to action in helping the young man. By the time I left, he had food and a job offer. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” - Proverbs 18:21 (KJV) There is power in our words. Whether for good or evil, it is up to the speaker (or writer) to decide the path. I choose life. What will you choose?

Even though we may be tired of the politics, we shall never forget the lesson that Venezuela taught us, that is – politics should not be overlooked nor ignored, for if we do, we will end up losing our freedom like Venezuela did. We are witnessing the Europeans, who are losing their battle because they allowed the progressives to take over their governments, and now their economy is withering, and their national security is weakened. Alaskans, this is the reason why politics should always be our number one priority and let us not forget.

The PFD has been a huge benefit to our state for over 35 years. Our elected officials are ignoring the fact that the PFD encourages private sector development, is the best way to fight a recession, and elevates up to 25,000 people out of poverty. I am proud that every Alaskan with limited financial means, especially those in the rural areas where cash jobs are limited, has an equal share of cash generated from our public resources. I support the reinstitution of the historical PFD law that has paid a full PFD and worked well for residents, the economy and Fund protection. And, I see an extremely urgent need to secure the PFD in the Alaska Constitution to guard it from the grasping hands of politicians. I oppose balancing the budget with Alaskans’ PFD – it’s wrong. It’s time to have an open discussion about appropriate budget cuts and revenue raising options. If we do not, we will lose the PFD and destroy the Permanent Fund. Now is the time for every Alaskan to ask, “What direction should we take?” Will we allow these threats to ruin the Fund and the PFD which are admired globally as a great example of resource wealth management and equitable benefit for residents? Or will we choose to defend and strengthen our successful Permanent Fund and Permanent Fund Dividend to benefit current and all future generations? Will politicians choose the right path? It’s up to you, Alaska voters, to make sure they do. Jack Hickel is a family physician with the Southcentral Foundation in Anchorage and vice-president for Permanent Fund Defenders. (www.pfdak.com)

OPINION / POLITICS

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

services, un-budgeted pensions, and bond debt liability. We need to authorize a real “spending diet” before we destroy ourselves! Contributed by Wes Keller Undesignated, restricted, natural resource wealth (PF Earnings) was never intended to automatically become State budget revenue! Unfortunately, this year’s spending spree (the budget process in Juneau) seems no different than other years. We have a Governor who has clearly expressed he will do his part if we can get our legislators in line. This annual budget melodrama (“Hunger Tales”) is getting very old. More Alaskans are now aware we need to “go on a [spending] diet”, so it is time to act! We are again watching the flood of special interest advocates rushing to Juneau to plead for more. We are watching the same old, time-tested, machinations that have unfortunately proven to be effective for keeping the feeding trough full! The disappointing truth is: Alaskans evidently do not really want to cut budget over-spending! ...At least not so far! Our votes, or lack thereof, have created and empowered the prevailing spending policies of the State of Alaska. “We the People” have elected and enabled our over-spending culture! To deny culpability is to deny our constitutional power – the very

power we need to fix the problem. It is hollow to whine about being duped by lying politicians when we benefit and tolerate overspending because we like it. Spending just happens, almost automatically, while most Alaskans passively watch! We tolerate because “all boats rise” on the State spending tide” – right? In truth, the electorate has been getting exactly what it can’t resist – a rich diet of nanny over-spending. The exaggerated “hunger” we feel is particularly frustrating this year because of growing awareness of how high government spending is threatening our PFDs! This is in spite of the fact the Permanent Fund earnings were never meant to be brazenly used as “grocery monies” (revenue) in the political budget pantry! In fact, the clear intent of the PF was to avoid this very thing! If the legislature continues the pretense/ presumption, billions of new dollars are added as fair game for the budgetary plots and schemes that created our problem. It adds to the “hog’s share” we originally surrendered in our constitution – the generous, unrestricted, 80% portion of our natural resource income in lieu of taxes. If “budget politics” becomes the new norm for the security of our PF earnings, it will not end well! Additional billions will be swallowed up to pay for even more unwanted government

Contributed by Faunus Doney

produced by a neighbor.

Supporters of Gov. Dunleavy’s budget and its priorities claim that they’re in favor of trimming waste and putting money back in the hands of Alaskans. So far, so good: I agree with cutting wasteful spending, and like most people I could use a few extra bucks.

Forget all that, and consider the waste involved. For 25 cents per Alaskan, the cost of a single government program run by a single inspector, the governor is willing to kill not just a unique business. He’s willing to kill an entire industry that’s just getting started.

But I can only agree with the governor’s budget for about if it takes to pour a glass of milk. Or to drive out by Havemeister’s Dairy. Word’s gotten around that Havemeister’s might be put out of business by the cuts proposed in the governor’s budget. Not because it gets any handouts or government assistance. Because its milk needs to be inspected before it’s sold, and the proposed budget eliminates the state’s only dairy-inspector position. No inspection, no sales. No sales, no dairy. Forget for a moment that Havemeister’s is Alaska’s only commercial dairy. Forget that it’s a vital link to Palmer’s past, a vibrant part of its present, and a promising anchor of its future. Forget, even, how lucky we are to be able to grab off the shelf milk that was

Two other dairies, one in Fairbanks, the other on Kodiak Island, are close to opening. So close that they’ve already asked to be inspected. That means huge investments in the facilities, livestock, and equipment needed to deliver commercially viable products. All of that investment adds up to far more than Alaska will save by eliminating the job of Dairy Inspector. And it’s all in danger of being sent down the drain. To me, that’s shortsighted. For what it’s worth, Wisconsin agrees. A license to produce milk in Wisconsin costs $30; even with nearly 9,000 dairy farms kicking in, this barely makes a dent in the dairy-inspection budget of a state that employs more than 25 people for that task alone. And still,

The damage control needed this year is to get very specific, immediately, about where the Legislature is to get the money it spends! We have this option so long as the Constitution of Alaska stands. “We the People” must legally amend the Constitution to make it very clear PF earnings are for PFDs, and not for budget revenue! If more revenue is really needed beyond what has already been authorized, we must clarify the ONLY way the legislature can get it must be by a vote of approval by the people for any new taxes! The time-tested way to raise revenue is for legislators to be clever enough to pass tax laws while retaining enough vote support for re-election... the perfect spending restraint. If revenue cannot be raised under these terms because of resistance to taxes, spending must be less than whatever can be collected. (Duh!!!) Remember, “We the People” have already generously contributed in the Constitution, and unwittingly removed a check and balance. Legislators should be very cautious, because taking PFDs without further tax legislation should be FAR more infuriating than tax legislation. Legislators would be very wise to authorize a statewide vote to

Wisconsin manages to maintain a bit of a reputation for dairy production. Wisconsin’s system has been stable for years, even throughout Scott Walker’s administration. They know, as Gov. Dunleavy seems not to, that some investments are best made centrally. Shifting money from public positions like Dairy Inspector to pay for increased PFDs makes sense only if the goal is to destroy entire industries. Otherwise, the only option left to us is to each save a quarter from our dividend checks, pool our resources, and hire… well, you get the idea. Take a closer look at the governor’s priorities, and more often than not, you’ll see solutions looking for problems. And, despite all the talk about fiscal responsibility, you’ll find long-term waste. When Scott Walker’s fiscal policies make yours look pennywise and sound foolish, it’s time to hit the brakes. That might be happening as I write this: plenty of folks throughout MatSu and beyond have spoken up for Alaska’s dairies, and there’s real hope that the inspector position will be saved once the dust settles in Juneau. But, as I drove my truck along some roads in Palmer that could use resurfacing, looming crisis got me to thinking more

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clarify use of PF earnings! SJR 4, SJR 5, and SJR 6, requested by Governor Dunleavy, would allow Alaskans to vote to amend the constitution to enshrine the needed clarifications! We would be choosing to limit legislative spending, to require a state-wide vote for all new taxes, and to clarify the “hands off” policy regarding PF earnings intended for PFDs! http://www.akleg.gov/basis/ Home/BillsandLaw This self-disciplined action may be the only hope we have this side of bankruptcy and shame! We need a strict, clear appropriation limit (a diet) in the Constitution itself! (The one in the Constitution now is a failed “joke”). The legislature can and will continue to play with legislation to try to reach similar goals, but their track record has destroyed public hope and trust. Please engage in the legislative process to pass SJRs 4, 5, and 6. Without broad, quality engagement there is little reason to be optimistic for our economic future! Be forewarned: Selling a healthy diet in a market where it is a lot easier to sell junk food is not a cakewalk! You will likely be called ANTI-child, education, health care, poor and elderly. The spenders’ unapparent, but conflicted, interests! Unfortunately, the only way to economic health is to reduce the caloric input, which is never an attractive option until we just do it. WesKeller.com

broadly about how we manage our public money and our civic priorities. When the Navy needed coal, it built a railway to the coal fields north of Palmer and set people to work. That railway cost money. Public money. When the government wanted an established presence in the Valley, it sold homesteads at a loss. That cost money. And when the need for improved agriculture in Mat-Su met the needs of hundreds of hard-up families from the Iron Range, among them Arnold and Emma Havemeister, public money got them up to the Matanuska Colony. Those investments were made during wartime, and in the depths of the Great Depression. They weren’t frivolous, and they weren’t handouts. They were serious investments in the hard work and stubborn genius of the forebears whose effort and character made Palmer such a special place to live. It still is. And with continued hard work, care, and investment, it will be for generations to come. Faunus M. Doney, BSc. DD EMT-P Palmer, Alaska: Proud Resident Twitter: Frontier_Faunus Facebook: @ faunus.doney.1

PETS & ANIMALS

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

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Contributed by Susan Fujimoto Max is a neutered brindle and white Cane Corso, a Mastiff mix. He is a little over a year old and VERY energetic, exuberant, playful and friendly!! Max has so much energy and likes to jump, so he would be best in households with kids over 12 because he could accidently knock over younger children in excitement. You can see Max and our other available animals online at: www.petharbor.com The Mat-Su Animal Shelter is located at 9470 E. Chanlyut Circle, Palmer, beside the central landfill. We are open Tuesday through Saturday, from 11am until 6pm.

Contributed by Angie Lewis President of Alaska Animal Advocates As with everything in life, there are benefits to having more than one dog in your family, but there can certainly be negative aspects as well. Adding another dog to your household requires careful thought and all family members should be on board. Think of the current make up of your family, animal and human. Will this work out for everyone? First, let’s look at the bright side. Two dogs, who get

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann A little bit damaged, but oh so wonderful, Yowie is ready for a home. Yowie is a charmer – so full of energy and affection, and he does love to talk to you about when dinner will be ready or about your day. He’s maybe a couple years old and will be a great family cat. He will need a safe place to go outside when the weather is nice, and a family who spends time in the yard that he can explore would be perfect for him. He’s in Palmer. Call 980-8898 for more information

along well, can become best of friends for life. Also, when the dogs are young, having another dog helps enhance emotional development. Having more than one dog can alleviate boredom and resulting bad behaviors. In addition, separation anxiety is often alleviated with another companion. Or, adding a puppy to a home with an older dog allows for the puppy to learn some good behavior. Dogs typically get more exercise when they have another canine friend to play with. As good as all that sounds, there can negative

Contributed by Angie Lewis Wesson is a smart, spunky, energetic Black Lab Mix. He is approximately four months old and is mostly house trained. Wesson is very food motivated and therefore will be an easy dog to train. He knows some basic good manners and walks well on a leash. This boy has lots of stamina and would be an ideal running or skiing buddy for an active family. Learn more about this sweet boy by calling Angie at Alaska Animal Advocates at 841-3173 or emailing us at akaarescue@hotmail.com

aspects to having more than one dog. Not all dogs get along, so you could be inviting problems into your household. Bear in mind that you will have to deal with twice the fur, veterinary costs, and behavior concerns. When deciding if you should get another dog, think about your financial situation, the amount of time you have available, and the space in your home. Typically, dogs of opposite gender tend to get along better than dogs of the same sex. Sometimes, critters of the same gender vie for dominance. Often though, these battles are short lived and can be easily resolved. No different

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann This beautiful grey girl with hints of a tortie mixed in will make a great addition to someone’s life! Her name is Spirit and that’s just what she has!! She’s full of energy and play that she missed out on while trying to survive. This sweet girl will need a home willing to provide lots of playtime with her but also be patient and understanding in her learning to be a house cat! She has done well with other cats, as for dogs, we do not know. Call 315-9510 for more information

than human siblings. There is some thought that littermates do not do well in the same household. Sometimes these dogs bond more with their sibling, rather than with their human. Also, some people think that dogs from the same litter fight like, well, brothers and sisters. This can be resolved by making sure that you spend an equal amount of quality time with each dog, using separate crates, and enrolling the dogs in a good training experience. There are various strategies for successfully introducing dogs to one another with minimal conflict. More about that in the next edition.

PETS & ANIMALS Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann Mr Butters is a gorgeous guy! He’s got those baby blues and an ivory coat. And those orangey accents on his head, tail and feet. So handsome.

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann The purrfect pair! Ralph and Callie, they are a great couple. Ralph is a super mellow guy who doesn’t get too excited about things. He is an excellent lap kitty who doesn’t have to test gravity all the time. You lay down, gravity works; go with it. They must be adopted as a pair. They do fine with mellow dogs and are happy purring kitties in a happy home. Ralph and Callie have been sponsored and can be adopted to a loving family as a pair for $80!

He is comfortable in a family home with people who are kind. He would probably be fine in a home with nice kids. He seems okay with other cats and dogs who are not intimidating. He’s a wonderful boy. He does love to go outside sometimes so he will need a safe yard to enjoy in the summer.

In Wasilla. Call 980-8898 for more information.

COMMUNITY EVENTS Contributed by Linda Myers-Steele Senior Ed is directed toward adults 50+ years interested in keeping mentally active, curious, learning something, and having fun. No tests, grades, and homework. Classes are free of charge; minimal fees for supplies as noted. WASI (Wasilla Area Seniors Inc.) hosts the classes and the instructors volunteer their time. WASI is located at Wasilla Senior Center, 1301 Century Circle, Wasilla. senioreducationwasilla@gmail.com

AJT: BEDTIME STORY COMES TO LIFE