The People's Paper June 2019 by The Peoples Paper

FUN & FITNESS: ZUMBA IN THE PARK 2019 MORE ON PAGE 2 OF THE PEOPLE’S PAPER

Contributed by Laurie Kari and Gini King-Taylor Family Promise Mat-Su is excited to announce the birthday of our first annual community-wide CARdboard City! This event will take place July 19, 2019 at the Alaska Fairgrounds, Green Gate, from 5pm Friday evening through Saturday morning, 8am, July 20. Family Promise Mat-Su is a nonprofit for families without housing in the Valley. We shelter families in area churches and on site, offering them compassionate care through immediate assistance, shelter, meals, and case management. Money raised at this event is critical to alleviating the pains of homelessness. This year, Family Promise Mat-Su is “widening the net” to include MyHouse, Alaska Family Services Women’s Shelter, Wasilla Homeless

Committee and Blood ‘n Fire/Knik House. Each of these non-profits steadfastly serves the homeless by working upstream of the problem, as well as holding the safety nets. Family Promise and these agencies serve with the Mat-Su Coalition on Housing and Homelessness; we join up at local, statewide and national training conferences; and we have shared resources, referrals and support with each other for many years. Combining agencies strengthens us exponentially. We are all working as a unit to help those without housing regain self-sustainability, health and hope. Therefore, it is a natural progression to work together with this outreach fundraising event that is designed to raise awareness for the homeless in our Valley and raise money to support positive action in serving this population.

With their help at our 12th Annual sleep-out event, our joint missions to end homelessness in the Valley will be supported. “A rising tide lifts all boats!” Please come alongside us as the Mat-Su continues to be the lighthouse community to help heal those in need. Plan to spend one night in a substandard dwelling or car in solidarity with those who are homeless every night. Donate generously, as your dollars will be spent well for agency guest services! Mark your calendars: July 19th, 5pm, Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer, Green Gate. Boxes will be provided. $50+ will rent a space for your box.

LOCAL ARTIST WINS NATIONAL AWARD

MORE ON PAGE 7 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE

PALMER MIDSUMMER GARDEN & ART FAIRE MORE ON PAGE 8 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE

VALLEY ARTS ALLIANCE: ART ON FIRE 2019 MORE ON PAGE 9 OF MAKE A SCENE MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY & EVENTS

Contributed by Lhing Mcneal Come join us every Saturday at 3PM for the months of June & July, at Wonderland Park in Wasilla, for our Free Class “Zumba in the Park Matsu.” Never done Zumba before? No worries, this class is suitable for all abilities, even kids and young at hearts.

Contributed by Tabitha Sherman Members of the Matanuska Amateur Radio Association (MARA) will be participating in the National Amateur Radio Field Day exercise, June 22-23 (from 10 AM Saturday to 10 AM Sunday) in front of Lowe’s in Wasilla. Since 1933, ham radio operators across North America have established temporary ham radio stations in public locations during Field Day to showcase the science and skill of Amateur Radio. This event is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend. One function of Amateur Radio (also known as ‘ham radio’) is to provide a free public service to their

Contributed by Glen Butts (The Dude) 10th Annual MS Ride for a Cure 06/30/19 - 10AM Meet and Greet with Coffee @ Denali Harley Davidson and Leaving for Eureka Lodge @ 10:30AM For BBQ, Music & Fun! - Entry Fee: $25+ This is a fundraiser for the National MS Society, to go to research for a cure for this debilitating disease that affects so many people, and families throughout the world.

Fun activity for the whole family. Wear your comfy clothes and bring your water bottles. All participants must sign a waiver. Fill up an entry form every time you attend a class for a chance to win prizes. Save the date July 27 at 11 AM, for our End of the Season Party! We will have food, music and amazing

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prizes. See you at Wonderland park and let’s have fun! This event is hosted by Kabayan Inc. Filipino-American Community of Matsu and made possible with the support of Matsu Health Foundation, The Alaska Club, Emilie Cullison of Re/Max, The People’s Paper and Q99.7 FM. Like us on Facebook (@ Kabayan Inc.) for more updates!

communities during a disaster or emergency, all without needing a cell phone or the Internet. Field Day demonstrates ham radio’s ability to work reliably under any conditions from almost any location and create an independent communications network. Members of MARA were ready to deploy to provide communications in the aftermath of the November 30th earthquake, and provided valuable on-the-spot reports of damage and other hazards to government agencies.

provide members of the public with opportunities to see amateur radio demonstrated, as well as a chance to pick up the mic and try it themselves. There are more than 725,000 licensed hams in the US, as young as 9 and as old as 100.

Ham radio also remains one of the best ways for people to learn about electronics, physics, meteorology, and numerous other scientific disciplines. Our Field Day will

Come out and see us and let us help you explore this exciting hobby. More information about the local club, and amateur radio can be found at www.KL7JFU.com

We hold this event every year and it’s been growing, with help from many local companies and volunteers in our community… We hope that you can come down and participate this year! You don’t need a motorcycle! You can drive a car, or a truck too. There is so much to see along the ride up, a beautiful lake at the Lodge, and plenty of friendly people! Plus, did we mention door prizes? The

entry fee is $25 (or more) per person, with a signed participant rider/driver waver form, for a ticket into festivities; and you’ll receive a t-shirt provided by Christine Bailes Matsu Neurology, to show your participation in the fundraiser. We hope to see you there! Hosted by Midnight Son Riders Chapter 801 of Christian Motorcyclists Association, Denali Harley Davidson, Eureka Lodge, The Moose and Valley Radio! For more information, please follow us on Facebook @ MS Ride for a Cure!

COMMUNITY & EVENTS

Contributed by Meg Voss Scottish Highland Games 06/29/19 – 8AM - 8PM Alaska State Fairgrounds 2075 Glenn Hwy, Palmer In 2018, The Alaskan Scottish Club brought women professional athletes to the games. One of the first games in the US to do so. The best in the world. This year, The Alaskan Scottish Club will be showcasing a team of women AND men professional athletes. Many of the athletes will break world records again during the Alaska Scottish Highland Games. This year will be more exciting, with over 100

Contributed by Katie Stark Mat-Su Regional Medical Center’s annual Bicycle Safety Rodeo for 2019 will take place Saturday, June 22, at the Menard Sports Complex, from 10AM to noon. This year’s event will include free drawings for bicycles and bicycle helmets will be given away to the first 100 attendees.

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athletes competing throughout the day in the caber toss, stone throw, weight over bar, challenge stone, and the grueling Farmer’s walk. The Sheaf Toss has been added this year and is a real crowd-pleaser. A 28# bale of hay is thrown for height.

still available - but it will sell out!), musical concert performances by the award winning “The Fire.” axe throwing (adults & children’s, day-long Children’s field games (competing in miniature versions of weights and and cabers).

Enjoy shopping at over 100 vendors with unique wares, traditional Celtic food (Scotch eggs anyone?), and fun activities. And of course, cheer on your favorite team during the Tug ‘O War.

The gathering of the clans is bigger than ever this year with 15 registered - so come and discover your heritage at one of their tents.

Attendees of the Games will also enjoy Scottish Piping & Drumming solo and band competitions, Celtic dancing, Scotch Tasting General & Education Sessions (tickets are

It will also feature a bicycle obstacle course, presentations from medical professionals and safety experts and equipment safety checks by Backcountry Bike and Ski and Alaska Bicycle Center. Be sure to bring your personal bicycle and helmet in order to receive a safety check. Last year’s bike rodeo was attended by more than 250 children and parents, according to event organizers.

Tickets for admission, applications for membership and sponsorships, VIP, Scotch tasting, and information on much more can be found on the website: www.alaskascottish.org

The rodeo is designed for riders of all ages, but is specifically targeted toward younger riders. There will be free snacks, refreshments, promotional items and other fun giveaways. The Bicycle Safety Rodeo is sponsored by Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, the City of Wasilla and the Curtis Menard Sports Center.

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COMMUNITY / OPINION Contributed by Dori Cranmore R.N. Naturally produced by our bodies, Glutathione is known as the Master Antioxidant because it can help protect your cells from oxidative damage. It is found mostly in the liver and used by every cell and tissue in our body. Production of Glutathione, (or GSH) in a cell, depends on the availability of glutathione precursors; three amino acids glutathione is made of; glutamate, glycine and cysteine. The benefits are extensive but there are many ways Glutathione can be depleted from our body which may result in a weakened immune system, a higher susceptibility to cancer and rapid aging process. Poor diet, toxins, stress, radiation, pollution, medications, aging, uv radiation and trauma can deplete our Glutathione levels. Certain diseases

Contributed by Tony Delarm Each year, new laws are released to help ensure the safety of the public. Certain products are deemed “unhealthy” or “dangerous” by the FDA to help us make the best decisions we can about what we put in

Contributed by Ranae Kranz You’ve been caring for your mom or dad for months now. It hasn’t always been easy. You’ve had arguments and felt frustrated, but you still have times when you laugh together about a memory from childhood that brightens their eyes again. As their dementia progresses, you miss how things used to be. You miss their personality, their wisdom, their friendship. You miss them. The stress of acting as their caregiver can build surprisingly fast. One minute you think you’re doing ok. The next minute you feel guilty for wanting life to go back to normal – when you had time for hobbies, friends, work and a normal family life. And just when you think you’re getting the hang of things, you feel anger and frustration bubbling up as your parent needs you for even more tasks. Simple things become big things. Everything feels complicated and takes so much time. It’s a big undertaking to care for your parent with dementia. Some days good moments outweigh challenging ones. Your parent has a moment of clarity that fills you with joy for hours, but their dependence on you increases your stress as the disease progresses. You may feel unsure about where to

such as Diabetes type II, Parkinson’s disease, Aids, cancer and hepatitis can also deplete the levels. Glutathione helps scavenge a wide array of free radicals including nitric oxide, which is essential to the health of our clean arteries. It also helps maximize the performance of vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10 and alpha-lipoic acid. It assists in detoxification, immune enhancement, boosting energy levels, and helps repair damaged cells. There are 2 forms of glutathione. The reduced glutathione; also called L-glutathione is the most common supplement found in retail stores and there is also a liposomal or oxidized form that is more expensive but formulated for optimal absorption. Glutathione is mostly taken as an oral capsule or liquid, but it is also given intravenously, intramuscularly, topically or as an inhalant ordered through your doctor.

our bodies. But, at which point do we stop listening to others and listen to our own voice? How long do we stand by and let others decide what is best, for us? At Alaskan Sweet Vapes, we strive to help educate our consumers on the benefits and dangers of vaping. Just like any other product, gaining an

turn next or how to handle a difficult situation. Whether your parent is living with you or you’re helping them in their home, you’ve probably been witnessing the changes in them daily. Below are some of the common cognitive signs of dementia: - Losing things and not being able to retrace steps - Difficulty communicating, problemsolving and planning - Memory deficits that disrupt daily life - Poor judgement - Confusion and disorientation - Difficulty completing regular tasks - Repetitive speech or actions - Wandering - Difficulty with motor skills These changes are challenging, but the psychological changes can push you to your limits. You’ve borne the weight of the personality changes, withdrawal from social activities, agitation, depression, anxiety, inappropriate behavior and paranoia. At times, the stress leaves you teetering on the edge. Please know, you are not alone. What you feel and how you react to those feelings are normal human emotions

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Glutathione testing is not a mainstream practice like cholesterol, however, there has been extensive studies done on the role low glutathione has on health and disease, mainly increased mortality. The blood testing fluctuates during the day because of exposure to toxins. It measures lowest in the mornings.

cancers, cataracts, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, peripheral artery disease, diseases of liver, kidneys, lungs, heart, and digestive system, flu, fibromyalgia, hepatitis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, physical trauma, skin disorders, seizures, tumors, and more.

Other ways to boost and maintain healthy levels of glutathione is by making sure to include certain foods in your diet. Asparagus, almonds, spinach, walnuts, garlic, tomatoes, cucumber, watercress, chives, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, cabbage, beets, parsley, curcumin and cinnamon are foods that can assist and boost the activity of the enzymes needed to produce more of our own glutathione.

At this time there are no known adverse reactions when taking glutathione supplementation with medications. Dori Cranmore is a registered nurse and owner of All About Herbs, Inc. This information is provided for education only and not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.

Over 100,000 medical research articles have been written about the importance of Glutathione to our health maintenance. Raising Glutathione levels has been clinically proven to be beneficial for people afflicted with: AIDS, Alzheimer’s, asthma, burns, all

understanding of how things work is essential. We started our shop years ago to help people quit smoking and to have an option if the others aren’t working. Don’t get me wrong; patches, gum, counseling, group sessions, etc… are all great, but not for everyone. Each person is unique in their approach, execution, and level of readiness. This isn’t good or bad, just the way things are! At Alaskan Sweet Vapes, we’re here to offer you the freedom of choice. If you like to smoke but want to

and reactions. Many other adult children have felt the same things as they navigate the minefield of caring for a parent with dementia. You have the right to feel the way you do; you’re in the midst of a challenging journey. Again, you are not alone... And there is help. Caregiver burnout signs: If you find yourself arguing once again with your parent or losing patience too often, you may be burning out. This happens to many adult-child caregivers. You may also feel like you’re trying with everything you have and still feel like you’re failing them. Do you see any of these signs in yourself? Social Withdrawal – Have you lost touch with your friends or don’t take part in activities you used to enjoy? Anxiety – Are you worried you won’t be able to provide the care needed as the disease progresses? Or anxious about taking care of both your family and your parent Depression – Do you wake up in the morning thinking you can’t face another day? Or feel like your spirit is broken by the weight of your responsibilities? Exhaustion – Are you so tired you find it

quit cigarettes, due to the dangers of chemicals, vaping may be an option for you. If it is, we’re here to help you get away from cigarettes. If other things are working for you, awesome, we wish you the best in YOUR journey! We respect that not everyone is the same, and we embrace that at Alaskan Sweet Vapes! Stop by our location today if you would like to learn more! 224 N Yenlo St. Wasilla. This information is provided for education only and not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.

nearly impossible to complete tasks you need to complete? Sleeplessness – Do you lay awake at night worried about how you’re going to keep going? Or worried about the toll dementia is taking on your parent? Anger – Do you get angry when your parent can’t do the things they used to be able to do? Or get angry at yourself for failing to notice an obvious problem? Lack of concentration – Have you been forgetting appointments or your child’s activities? Or find you can’t focus on the task at hand? Irritability – Are you moody and find yourself lashing out at others for the smallest things? Health problems – All of these things take a toll on your physical health. Do you remember the last time you felt good physically? Denial – Do you deny your parent’s disease is permanent? Or deny you are struggling with their care? If you see one or more of these signs in yourself...

COMMUNITY / OPINION Contributed by John Rozzi As I mentioned in my last article, when we hear the word homeless many of us automatically picture a person that panhandles, pushes a shopping cart and lives in a tent. Although true, most chronically homeless make up a small portion of the homeless population. However, when we breakdown the different stages of homelessness the people that live in tents are 100% literally or chronically homeless. This is the population we’re all trying to save. Whether they see it that way is another matter. The Chronically Homeless population meets HUDs definition of “An individual or family living in a public or private place not meant for human habitation; which can include living in shelters too”. Did you know that HUD considers a dry cabin as “a place not meant for human habitation”? But, in Alaska a dry cabin is considered stable housing. While at a National Conference in Washington, D.C I asked a HUD official why they labeled a dry cabin as a place not meant for human habitation. Their response was basically no response. They’ll look into it. The homeless populations which you may never notice fall into one of the following categories of homelessness; 1. A person/family at imminent risk of losing their primary night-time residence. 2. A person/family fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence or other dangerous or life-threatening conditions. Individual/Family at imminent risk of Homelessness... You see a lot of missions focused on ending homelessness. The percentages of completing this goal are high when the individuals or families fall into situations that are preventable or involve rare occurrences. For example; A Challenge; the population of people living paycheck to paycheck; couch surfing, living with friends or family have the ability to avoid homelessness. Some Solutions; people living paycheck to paycheck who are able and willing can find a job that pays more or contributed more hours; an additional income contributor to the household can help dramatically. The times of a one income family are gone. A Challenge; although, couch surfing is not recognized by HUD as a homeless situation it does fit the McKinney-Vento Act definition of being homeless; “A person that does not have reliable secure nighttime residence”. These individuals are always at risk of being homeless.

Contributed by Jeaninne Milne MS, DVSA Case Manager, AFS As a community, we value safety for ourselves and those around us. Sadly, according to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), every 92 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. In Alaska, this rate is three times higher than the national average. Additionally, it is thought that up to 63% of these assaults are not reported. To bring awareness to this epidemic, Alaska Family Services is hosting their second annual Step Out event. Step Out is a free, family friendly, smoke-free event designed to bring our community together, to raise awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault. The event features

Included in this scenario are individuals or families staying with a friend or family member. Some Solutions; while staying with friends or family save money to prepare for the departure. Staying with friends or family for up to two weeks is like a vacation. Anything after that can wear on your hosts. So, prepare to save. Another option is to combine saving with seeing if the individual or family qualifies for affordable housing and/or financial assistance from the housingassistance grant programs. Individuals fleeing a dangerous or life-threatening situation... In the Mat-Su, we have a 32 bed Domestic Violence facility for women and children. Unfortunately, it’s full the majority of the year. A Challenge; did you know that men find themselves fleeing dangerous or life threating situations too? However, there is no facility, that I know about, that can house them. So, a question; “Where are they being housed”? Possible Solutions; they might stay with family or friends, Knik House or in a tent somewhere. Additionally, regardless of who is fleeing if they can save money while not paying for housing they can prepare themselves for finding another place to live. If they are eligible they may also get financial assistance with being rehoused by the Housing Assistance Grant Programs. Housing Assistance costs vary drastically: We have seen several thousands of households (comprised of individuals or more than two people) approach our grant group for housing funding assistance. The financial boost or gap funding makes a huge difference in their lives and is much more cost effective when preventing homelessness rather than putting someone into housing when deposit and rent are required. “It costs up to five times more to fund the first month’s rent and deposit, rather than providing a small amount to prevent them from becoming homeless and having to start all over”. What’s next? What’s your perception of homelessness? What do you think are the main reasons individuals or families become homeless? Are shelters the answer for preventing Homelessness? I’ll be addressing these questions in the future. But, please feel free to weigh in and give your opinion on the homeless challenges and solutions we have in the Mat-Su Valley. Contributed by John Rozzi; CEO of Valley Charities, Inc.; Serves as the Operating Board Chair of the Mat-Su Coalition on Housing and Homelessness.

community agencies who provide both resources and a focus on building healthy communities through offering programs that grow and strengthen community connections. RAINN reports that sexual violence has fallen by half in the last 20 years. We believe in order to continue this momentum, we need to work together as a community to educate those around us; empowering our friends and family members to speak up and STEP OUT. The event will include activities for kids and families, raffles and a trail walk, as well as food trucks, community resources tables and much more. Step Out will take place alongside Mat-Su Regional’s Bike Rodeo at the Menard Center on June 22, 2019 from 11am-1pm.

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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

COMMUNITY / OPINION Contributed by Brandi Kinney 2019 Youth Summit 8/6/2019 – 4PM My House Youth Action Board & Mat-Su Opioid Task Force The Glenn Massay Theater 8295 E College Dr. Palmer FREE Event The My House Youth Action Board, is a board comprised of previously homeless youth who are working to create a paradigm shift in policy, administration, and culture around the treatment of homeless youth in Alaska. With this shift, we have an

opportunity to reduce the incredibly high rates of sexual assault, domestic violence, and drug addiction that our youth are currently facing. Our first step in accomplishing this goal is by hosting the 2019 Youth Summit to create a diverse and inclusive gathering focused on a wide spectrum of youth voices speaking about addiction in our communities from our point of view. Additionally, we want to foster an environment for connectivity for youth by making available volunteer opportunities and peer support. We

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know that 52% of the youth in the Matsu Valley feel disconnected and unvalued by their community (2017), so we will be encouraging resiliency by providing opportunity through vendor tables, a youth resource list, and peer support throughout the summit. This summit will be held at The Glenn Massay Theater, August 6th, from 4:00pm-9:00pm, with free pizza for all attendees at 7:00pm. Please call Brandi Kinney at 907373-4357 for more questions about the 2019 Youth Summit.

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

Contributed by Carol Rice The Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc., affectionately known as WASI, is busy putting together their biggest fundraiser of the year once again. Every summer for some years, WASI holds a 5K Miles 4 Meals on Wheels Fun Run, Walk or Roll event, and it’s scheduled to happen again this year on Saturday, June 22nd, on the campus of the Wasilla Senior Center. Please everyone, pray for sunshine. The race itself has several age levels, for men and women. Just about everyone can participate: runners, walkers (with and without mobility aids), bicycles, strollers and wheel chair riders. If you’re fast enough, runners could bring home a winning 1st, 2nd or 3rd place ribbon! Remember, this is a FUN run and that means we have everyone from serious competitors to those who just want to stroll part way, then head back for lunch. For many years, WASI handed out Miles 4 Meals T-shirts to registrants, but this year, reusable shopping bags will be given to each runner. Each bag carries the “Meals on Wheels of

Contributed by Melony Green

the Mat-Su Valley” and the WASI logo, and it will hold all sorts of prizes and goodies collected at the Fun Run. After the race, it will be a perfect shopping bag. It is hoped that everyone who participates will dress up in bright colors, that teams will be recognized by their “team colors” because Miles 4 Meals is not just a fundraiser – it’s a Fun-raiser. A festive, happy time for all, so dress for a good time! The trail is not difficult. It begins as usual at the WASI campus (downhill from the Senior Center) near the Gazebo. After the start, the racers will head down the bike trail to the Iditarod Headquarters, and then back. It’s a mostly flat course. Lots of prizes will be awarded, including all sorts of gifts donated by businesses and services in the Valley and vicinity. For those people who raise money for Miles 4 Meals through sponsorships, WASI will award two certificates for 25,000 Alaska Air Miles. One will go to the participant who raises the most money, and the other will go to the winner of a drawing from all those who raised at least

$100 each. There will be a traditional burger and hot dog bar-b-que after the race, with accompanying refreshments for all the registrants to enjoy, cupcakes furnished by Verda’s Cakes ‘n Things once again, and fun for the whole family! Lunch is always a summer highlight and the good people of the Wasilla Lions Club will be helping out, serving everyone again this year. Of course, we all enjoy a fun day, but the impact of why we do this is Immense. This is a fundraiser for WASI’s nutrition program. All Proceeds go towards continuing to feed (and visit) homebound seniors who need a nutritious meal and a frequent wellness check. Even if you can’t join us on June 22nd, would you consider making a donation to help us meet the senior’s growing need? Mark your calendars, share the event with friends and family; we’d love to have as many people as possible register, raise money and participate. Make WASI’s goal of adding 5,000 delivered meals for our seniors, or $50,000 become a reality! Together, WE CAN DO IT!

AAA truck. It’s that simple! Frontline Mission thanks you on behalf of your community and we hope to see you there!

It’s time for Frontline Mission’s annual Christmas in July food drive!

the hungry here in the valley! School is out, and for those less fortunate, this means their children do not receive meals at school. This creates a great need for more food for these families in the summer months. With your help, we can fill this gap.

Joining us at Walmart are Q99.7 and AAA Moving and Storage. So, come down and join the excitement and grab your bag of food to help feed

So, we invite you to simply go into Walmart, grab a premade bag of food, (or shop for your own), check out, and then bring it outside to the

The food drive is from 10am-6pm on July 13th in your Wasilla Walmart parking lot. You can also text 50555 to give.

Frontline mission invites the community to a food drive at Walmart

Contributed by Eddie Ezelle As we come into the realization that we must do something different concerning the State budget, all of us will be required to help. We cannot keep doing the same thing over and over and expect different results. Sound familiar? Then so will “if you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.” Both are sage advice, but it does not ease the pain we are and will continue to feel if we do not do something now. First on the chopping block is any public service. There is a reason for this. You do not notice the reduction in paper pushers in an office, but you will notice a reduction in your police, fire and human services. Next

is any public works that are instantly noticeable such as road repair or new construction. There seems to be a block in the longterm ideas of building infrastructure. Had we invested money in building power supplies, roads, bridges, ports and expanding our rail and ferry systems, we would be able to expand in the job creation market. We are called the cross-roads of the world for a reason. We can touch the Far East and Europe easily from our northern locations. The State has been very foolish in the spending of our money and we allow it. All programs must be evaluated for effectiveness, not just because “but we have always done it this way!” We need to cause more thinking out of the box rather than complacency.

For more information on how you can help, call (907) 357-8600.

Sometimes being forced to look at things differently is a good thing. The idea that the State will take care of it should be rejected by every tax-paying Alaskan. I don’t pay taxes you say – think again. We all pay for those “freebies” some think is their entitlement. Everyone needs some help from time to time. That’s where we as nonprofits step in to help and we rely on others generosity to help us. It is not designed to be a life style of handouts, but rather a hand up. Many people seem to have forgotten this concept. We all need to help one another, but not to the point of straining our resources. When you talk with your representatives let’s have reasonable conversations and express our views without hatred. We are all in this together and we can’t do it alone. Please support where you can, but do not expect the State to come bail you out every time. Thanks for reading!

POLITICS / OPINION Contributed by Wes Keller Several times I have raised my right hand and solemnly swore to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Alaska, so help me God” (The public oath for service in the AK Legislature or AK Air National Guard). My appreciation for the US Constitution deepened as I served as a “cog” in the realm of governing. The original constitutional values established an ingenious human government that is the envy of the world and provides unprecedented human rights and freedom. However, as my awe and understanding for our national founding values increased, my respect for the AK Constitution decreased! I now believe some of the State’s biggest challenges are caused by variance from original US Constitutional values, even though we don’t typically think of overspending being caused by a constitutionally created imbalance of power between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. We need to make some changes! To make needed changes, we need constitutional amendments, such as SJR 3, 4, 5, and 6, which are on

Contributed by Sarah Montalbano Transparency is a foremost goal of the Alaska Policy Forum. As citizens, we hold a critical interest in how our tax dollars are used and transparency only serves to better inform our future decisions about government spending. Transparency is often talked about in reference to the federal government and Alaska’s government, but being informed about spending at the local level is just as important – if not more, since the impacts on our lives are more direct and easily observed. With cooperation from the Mat-Su Borough, the Forum has compiled some descriptive statistics about the 2017 compensation of Mat-Su Borough employees into a comprehensive report. The data is available and searchable in our online database and the raw data is available for download. The Mat-Su Borough employed 1,163

point and viable. These proposed amendments may seem rather “dull” compared to the media-hyped legislation such as budget legislation containing guidelines on size of the PFD, but these amendments are the real fix! They all do something to diminish the authority of an overbearing “nanny” state government able and willing to control budgetary spending to its own preservation. It should be obvious to everyone observing the State’s willingness to spend all of the natural resource income, even the restricted Permanent Fund earnings, and the attempts to add new regressive tax revenue to sustain itself. At the very least, these amendments proposing repairs should be a priority consideration! The fact that some of our prominent judges and attorneys boast Alaska provides justice without politics illustrates the problem, (http:// justicenotpoliticsalaska.org/formerjudge-says-alaska-should-keep-politicsout-of-judicial-selection-process/). It is sadly ironic that Alaskans don’t seem to react too defensively, even though Section 2 of the Constitution of the State of Alaska clearly states, “All political power is inherent in the people…” The seeming arrogance in some of the judicial branch is understandable when you consider our cultural bias that “politics” is somehow bad. We are acclimated to living under

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

a constitutional system requiring all government attorneys to be of one nominally apolitical Bar Association. The Alaska Bar Association is also given almost complete control of selection and oversight of judges. Even our appointed Attorney General is virtually insulated from political pressure from mere Alaska peons. The false presumption is the ability for anyone that matters in the judicial branch to be above any need for checks. Consider the fact the collaboration between the judicial and administrative branch; thus, the excess governing authority of our judicial branch is from collaboration with the administration. Which is a governing authority not available to the legislature, which is the branch theoretically most accessible to the people! The Alaska Constitution provides: -- Administrative Branch enforces the law (State employees & elected Governor). -- Judicial Branch provides justice for the law (the Courts & Government Attorneys). -- Legislative Branch writes the laws (elected Legislators). Because of man’s nature, there will always be those in government seeking to personally profit from public service and those who will abuse

employees during 2017. Of these: -- 320 were full-time employees -- 412 were part-time/casual/temporary employees -- 431 on-call responders -- The largest departments were Elections, comprising 180 employees, of which 177 were temporary, and Emergency Services, entirely of on-call responders.

employee. The median gross salary and benefits before tax for all fulltime employees, including those in a probationary period, was $111,295; the mean was $109,833. The two highest-paid employees in the Mat-Su Borough were the borough manager and the borough attorney, with total salary and benefits of $245,819 and $257,275 respectively.

Before describing gross salary, benefits, and overtime, the difference between the mean and median must be understood. When the mean is reported, it is the average: the data for each person is added together and divided by the number of people.

The mayor, in contrast, received gross salary and benefits of $61,125, with $31,723 of that being benefits. Precisely 300 employees earned more gross salary and benefits than the mayor. Apart from salary, benefits are a large portion of the cost of full time and part-time employees. The 2017 median benefits reported for full-time employees was $37,246 and for parttime employees was $34,186. Benefits are not customary for temporary, seasonal workers, or on-call responders, so their means and medians were close to $0 and shown in the “Other” category. Full-time employees cost

This is generally an informative statistic and will be used here, but another statistic, the median, will be used also. The median is robust to outliers, which are values so high or so low that they skew the mean. As such, the median often gives a more representative picture of the typical Mat-Su Borough

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their authority – all three branches provide occasion for both. A proper constitutional balance forces scrutiny of governing actions. Open debate and challenges may be “political”, but they are proven, key elements of good government. Swearing (affirming) to support of the Alaska Constitution can be an honorable thing to do for many reasons, including: Its provision for a clear process to be amended as needed, just as the US Constitution. This is evidence of the authors and ratifiers conceding their work may not be perfect, or the last word. Based on the US Constitution, it endorses many other fundamental premises and values worth dying for (like the Bill of Rights)! When making a public oath, keep in mind the Alaskan oath can legitimately be a vow with a contingency. Affirmation to support with the words “so help me God” places the promise under the ultimate authority of the “Supreme Judge” referenced in the Declaration of Independence. With this phrase, Divine Providence overrides the abilities of any given public servant to keep his or her promise. With these words, the oath becomes an appeal (prayer) as much as it is a promise. Nothing in statute prohibits this addition. Wes Keller | WesKeller.com

the Mat-Su Borough $12 million in benefits alone. Another critical statistic is overtime. The mean overtime pay for full-time employees before tax was $3649 in 2017. The employee with the most overtime pay was in the Emergency Services Core Ambulance District, with overtime of $65,910. For comparison, his regular pay was $67,363 and benefits were $60,115, for a gross pay and benefits of $193,389. The total gross salary and benefits paid to Mat-Su Borough employees was $42 million in 2017, which ultimately comes out of taxpayer dollars. The work of local government employees is crucial to the proper functioning of our communities. It is also important for citizens to remain well-informed about the costs and decide the value of these services. Transparency is necessary to ensure a government for the people and by the people

need or simply holding open a door for someone or offering words of encouragement. And doing so quietly and discreetly while remembering that even if others don’t see you, God does. Contributed by Vic Kohring During my years in public office, I frequently witnessed politicians in Juneau touting their perceived accomplishments with the usual ballyhoo and trumpet call. Our state capital seems to lure a large number of egotists who thrive on self-importance and believe the earth revolves around them. It’s a big reason why I’m relieved not to be a part of that culture any longer. Like most, I got caught up in the excitement of politics and being in a position of power and authority. As hard as I tried to be humble and not abandon my Christian principles, I admit, my head swelled at times as I succumbed to human nature and found myself occasionally behaving like a big shot. It’s difficult to keep one’s ego in check with so many lobbyists practically worshiping the ground you walk on and masquerading as your best friend. Multitudes pull your arm and nearly

yank it out of its socket, yet usually, have ulterior motives that have nothing to do with friendship. It’s because they want something from you, whether a special budget item or simply rubbing shoulders with a person they see as important or even a celebrity. I used to call them the “endless parade of supplicants.” As I reflect back, I realize how ugly the political arena really was and how pols pretend to be interested in helping their constituents, but only after screeching from rooftops to make sure everyone heard about their heroics loud and clear. I learned however that it was possible to accomplish things without grabbing headlines, yet still, get reelected. I’m surprised I had the patience to put up with the circus for so long. I’m a regular reader of The Daily Bread, a Christian publication from which I draw inspiration. One particular issue, dated April 2, 2018, discusses helping others anonymously and how acts of giving should be motivated by humility and kindness, not by the desire to

earn accolades and be showered with attention while shouting “look at me” to the world. The gratification from giving and knowing you’ve helped someone is wonderfully rewarding - but one should watch from afar and expect nothing in return. Public recognition should not be the driving force, but rather an inherent desire to help others. It’s the same desire that comes when God lives in your heart. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Romans that when we are generous to others, we model the generosity and kindness our loving God has shown to us. These are words I try to live by. Be charitable, but don’t take credit for things. Just quietly do what’s right and not be preoccupied with being seen. Life is much better for me after having left the rat race of politics, an environment I survived in for 16 years. I’m more relaxed, healthy and at peace without all the stress and pressure. And I enjoy doing things to make people’s lives better, whether it’s helping those in

Despite being content, I still count my time in Juneau as worth the grief even though it came to an abrupt end, because, through the help of my colleagues as part of a cooperative team effort, we were fortunate to achieve much good and improve the lives of many. We live in a better community because of decisions made decades ago, from growing the Permanent Fund, to improving roads in the Valley, to helping the oil industry that creates good jobs so people can support their families prosper. If no one recollects who did these things, that’s even better. Forget the plaques and citations honoring selfserving politicians. My focus today is to lay low, learn from my past, always choose my words carefully, be kind, helpful and generous to others (while reserved and without fanfare), and above all, remain humble. Vic Kohring is a 56-year Alaska resident who lives in Wasilla.

OUTDOOR SAFETY

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

as they caught fish, then set up a camp and built a fire on the opposite shore to cook their prize. I worried. Lack of rain had left everything tinder dry. Several hours later, they left, and everything returned to normal. Until the next day. Sitting at my computer, a flash of bright red sparks caught my attention as fire shot into the sky across the lake. I realized in horror, the tops of several dry swamp spruce were blazing with flames.

Contributed by Debra McGhan After a warmer and dryer than expected April, the cool, damp days of May came as a relief. Maybe not for everyone, but for the crews at the division of Forestry, it was a sure blessing. Memories of devastating fires which have impacted the Mat Su Valley in year’s past, are still vivid. If June, July or August turn out to be warm and dry, we could face a similar tragedy, and with the devastation from the spruce bark beetle infestation obvious across the valley, it would likely be of monumental proportion. I recall an evening bike ride that reminds me just how foolish and dangerous humans can be. My friend and I set out along trails lined with dried leaves and trees between lakes and wooded wilderness. I could smell the fresh earth, hear the birds chirping and taste the clean, spring air as we peddled along. We were heading back home when my friend suddenly stopped, laid his bike on the ground and started running along the trail. Curious, I followed. At a bluff overlooking a small lake, we could hear laughter and shouting coming from across the water. It didn’t take long to figure out we’d stumbled across a group of teenagers having a party. Thinking it wise to remind them to be careful, we started their direction.

Before we got close enough to say anything, they piled into two vehicles and drove away. As silence returned, we walked down to the lakeshore and found evidence of their sloppy departure; a dozen empty beer cans and the burning embers of a smoldering campfire. A brisk breeze lifted my hair – and sparks, caught by the movement of air, leapt out of the flame pit and caught the nearby brush on fire. My friend and I didn’t say anything, just went to work stomping out embers and digging up the earth with sticks. Using an empty can to carry water, we soon had nothing left but blackened mud and charred aluminum. Wind swirled through the trees and scattered dry leaves at our feet. I shivered at the thought of what might have happened if we hadn’t found this fire? I hated the thought of my home, my paradise, gone in a blazing wildfire. I remembered images of other people forced to live that horror. The tears. The pain. The agony… This day, thanks to good fortune, my neighbors and I in Meadow Lakes had been spared the same tragedy. Another summer, while working late at my cabin, a flash from a silver row boat on the lake outside my window caught my eye. I noticed three young men fishing. I watched them for a while

After calling Forestry, my neighbors and I managed to paddle across the lake and smother the fire. The folks from Forest Service finished the job. This fire, like the other one my friend and I found on our bike adventure, had been started in a crude pit beneath a stand of dry spruce trees littered with beer bottles. I can’t help but wonder how many times this community has been spared from the devastation of fire by luck and chance intervention? I know these experiences have sure taught me the importance of staying vigilant. I wish I could believe people would never make mistakes like these again, but the Miller’s Reach fire surrounding Big Lake in 1996, and the Sockeye Fire near Willow in 2015, along with other personal incidents, have taught me to accept the sad truth – we remain far from safe when it comes to wildfire.

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- Always make sure you secure a burn permit before building any fire. Burn permits contain valuable instructions for safe and legal burning. Residents must obtain a new permit at the start of each season, which runs from April 1 through August 31. Burn permits are free at state forestry offices and most local fire departments, or can be downloaded and printed at www. forestry.alaska.gov/burn - Clear dry leaves, brush and pine needles away from rooflines, gutters, decks, porches, patios and along wooden fences. This will eliminate fuel for flying embers. - Screen and seal vents around your home to prevent embers from getting inside. - Trim back shrubs and brush at least five feet from buildings - Remove dead trees infested by spruce bark beetles, these act like standing match sticks. - Remove anything within 30 feel that could burn such as woodpiles, spare lumber, vehicles, boats or other items that could serve as a fuel source. -Report all wildfires immediately. The sooner the professionals can put the fire out, the better chance they have for reducing a massive wildfire.

And the massive spruce bark beetle infestation leaving hundreds of dead trees standing like match sticks makes us even more vulnerable.

Get more information at www.firewise.org

Here are some tips to help keep yourself and your family safe from wildfire this summer:

It’s up to us to remain alert.

These tips are courtesy of firewise.org.

Protect the Mat Su Valley; be firewise!

PETS / ANIMALS

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

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your dog to summer events such as concerts, fairs, or other crowded places.

opened. Dogs can’t perspire the way humans do and have a very hard time cooling off in a hot car. The temperature in a car can rise to 120 degrees in just a few minutes. This can lead to the death of your dog. Don’t drive with your dog in the back of a pickup. Your dog is a member of the family and should be treated as such.

Contributed by Angie Lewis Summer should be a time of enjoyment for you and your dog, but all too often, this is a time of year when situations arise that can endanger your dog. There are only a few safety practices that need to be followed to ensure you and your dog have a wonderful time this summer. Don’t leave your dog in a vehicle, not even with the windows

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann Handles is a slim young boy with the classic M on his forehead and some tiger stripes camouflaged in his handsome gray coat. He is maybe a year or two old. He is a kind boy who gets along well with other kind cats and mellow dogs. He used to be shy, but not now! He would love a yard where he can go outside and feel the joy of the natural world. IN WASILLA. CALL 980-8898 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

If you had to suddenly hit the brakes, your dog might literally fly out of your truck bed. Let her sit in the cab with you, or if nothing else, put her in a secured crate in the back of your truck. Recognize lawn and garden dangers. Plant food, fertilizer and insecticides can be lethal for your dog. Keep them under lock and key. Try to use organics. Dehydration. Make sure your dog has plenty of water and shade to help her remain cool and hydrated.

Exercise. Hiking with your dog is a wonderful experience, for both you and your dog. Be sure to limit exercise on a really hot day, particularly for older dogs or dogs with thick coats. Provide enough rest time and ample water. Remember, asphalt can be very hot and actually burn your dog’s paws. Lakes. Not all dogs are natural born swimmers and can easily drown. Monitor your dog to make certain of her skill level as a swimmer. Be cautious about beavers, who can be very dangerous to dogs. Fleas and Ticks. This is not as big a problem in Alaska as it is in other parts of the country. If you use products for fleas and ticks, check with your veterinarian. Some over-the-counter treatments can be toxic, even when used as directed. Summer Events. Be mindful of taking

where his person is positive and kind, but firm. He would benefit from further training. Contributed by Angie Lewis Henry loved his family, having been adopted by them when he was just 8 weeks old. He was very happy, but then another baby was born, and he just couldn’t adjust to this change. Henry wanted more attention than his person could give him. Henry is almost 3 years old and now finds himself without a family or home. He does occasionally pull when leash walking, but usually just to go visit with other people walking. Henry gets along with other dogs and cats. Henry’s foster mom says that he would do best in a home

PLEASE CALL ALASKA ANIMAL ADVOCATES, ASK FOR ANGIE AT 841-3173 OR EMAIL US AKAARESCUE@HOTMAIL.COM

These can be stressful for some dogs and they may run the risk of getting lost. Know your dog and what might be uncomfortable for her. Other Revelry. Some dogs are very frightened of the loud sounds of fireworks and firearms. Dogs are best kept in the house for these celebrations and activities. These dogs may become so stressed that they may need medications to help them cope. Lost dogs. Make sure your dog is micro-chipped and that the contact information is current. In addition, your dog should wear a collar with an identification tag. Now go out and enjoy your summer, along with your dog friend, but do it safely. – Angie Lewis, President of Alaska Animal Advocates

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann River is still waiting for her special people to find her! Soft, luxurious fur and huge, soulful eyes will steal your heart. Her playful spirit will peek out at unexpected moments and she would love for you to play with toys on a string with her. This lovely lady is spayed, vaccinated, microchipped, and ready to find her place in your home. In Houston. Call 907-315-9510. IN WASILLA. CALL 980-8898 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

PETS & ANIMALS

He would likely do well with a mellow dog. Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann Leonitus is such a handsome young fellow. Long-legged and lean, in an orange-white coat. He is maybe a year or two old. Leonitus is a great cat. He is very affectionate with people and does just fine with other cats.

He loves to go outside and hunt and enjoy spring. And he loves to be with his people. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an amazing boy who will do great in a happy family. In Houston. Call 315-9510 for more information.