The People's Paper October 2017 by The Peoples Paper

Contributed by Abby Lampley, MY House Board Member The community here in the MatSu Valley knows that MY House is fully committed to helping homeless youth get back on their feet and become successful adults. The staff at MY House offers case management services, job training opportunities, transitional housing and a hot meal on Monday-Friday for any youth who walks through the door. Many of these youth consider MY House as a safe

place that they can come back to for help, no matter what happens. I think that says a lot. Recently, there was a discussion among the staff on what kind of things we could be doing to continue to help the youth become successful and independent. The idea of having very basic cooking classes for the youth to participate in was brought to the table. Eating fast food and buying pre-made meals regularly can get really expensive, and it drains a person’s

River. Our program operates at 22 safe community sites assisting 1,000+ children daily during the summer and hundreds more all school year long. Our services are realized through the dedication, compassion and hard work of a most remarkable group of individuals and organizations, from professional staff to hundreds of amazing volunteers.

Contributed by Lynette Ortolano, Kids Kupboard

Our partner organizations with the City of Wasilla, Boys and Girls Clubs, the Mat-Su School District, Denali Family Services, the Co-occurring Disorders Institute, Mat-Su Health Services and the Mat-Su Borough, among others, are invaluable in helping us meet the nutritional needs of the youth of our communities.

ART IS HAPPENING IN THE VALLEY!

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Children will be able to come inside each weekday after school and for lunch all summer long to enjoy a hot, healthy meal with us! We’re hoping to begin service at both of these new locations in October! There are hungry children in our own backyards, and we all have the power to feed them. Kids Kupboard is a true non-profit organization that’s dedicated to feeding hungry children in the Valley.

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COMMUNITY & EVENTS bank account or food stamp balance rather quickly. Making food properly is healthier and costs less. Unfortunately, many of the clients at MY House don’t know how to cook meals for themselves because they never learned. Jenn Martin, MSW, MY House’s lead case manager, and Roger Hamacher, president of Nine Star Education and Employment, jumped on the cooking class idea. They decided to have cooking classes at MY House every Friday at 12PM. These classes are meant

Special activities at the toy store next door mean a fun day for families! 8th Annual Neighborhood Toy Store Day 11/11/2017 Just Imagine Toys 591 E Parks Hwy # 407, Wasilla FREE Admission These days, those in the know “shop local” to support the environment and their community alike. On Saturday, November 11th, Just Imagine Toys will join hundreds of locally-owned stores across the country to celebrate the eighth national Neighborhood Toy Store Day, an annual celebration in which independent toy shops kick off the holiday season with special events to introduce consumers to the benefits of shopping local. Just Imagine Toys will offer fun, child-friendly activities such as face painting, games and crafts. “Specialty toy store owners are the real experts when it comes to choosing toys for kids,” said Kimberly Mosley, president of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), a non-profit organization

Contributed by Sue Kay

Go Inn Green mission is creating purpose through art! Sue Kay and the Mat-Su Resort is kicking off the re-opening and re-

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to teach the youth how to cook basic recipes that take only a few ingredients and one or two pots/pans. Each of the classes are recorded so that anyone can have access to the recipes. If you know anyone who can benefit from these classes, send them to MY House on Friday at noon. You can search and/ or subscribe to our Hot Plate Madness Youtube channel to view all of the video recordings at www.youtube.com/channel/ UCOZBJ4XBtpRKsvTq43sPahw MY House... offering youth a hand up, not a hand out!

dedicated to promoting local toy shopping and creative open-ended playtime for children. “These store owners spend time with kids day in and day out. They understand the value of play, and what types of toys will truly engage children.” As a result, neighborhood toy stores offer a carefully curated product selection and provide trusted recommendations on quality toys that offer good value. Because they needn’t adhere to a national sales plan like major chains, they can customize their offerings to specific community needs. And because they source products from both big-brand manufacturers and small, entrepreneurial companies, they introduce children to a world of toys that often, can’t be found elsewhere. “Local stores also make holiday toy shopping easier, by offering a personalized approach and customer service that contrasts with the experience of shopping large retailers,” said Mary Scheie, owner of Just Imagine Toys. In addition, shopping locally supports the community by

location of Go Inn Green Up Cycle Art Studio, now located on 1190 N Helen Lane, in the heart of the new Art District of Williwaw Way, Wasilla! Celebrate a day of up-cycled art and a private dinner show at Everett’s Mat-Su Resort! The National Sweetest Day is happening on October 21, 2017 from 12pm - 11pm. The theme is 1920s/ Great Gatsby. Costumes for the evening dinner show and dance are encouraged, although Halloween attire is completely welcomed and will be included in the costume contest. Prizes to entice will be awarded!

1st Annual Sweetest Day Celebration 10/21/2017 - 12PM Go Inn Green, Everett’s MatSu Resort 850 E Bogard Rd. Wasilla Cost: $10-$100

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

Using glass from Everett’s bar, bistro and kitchen up-cycled breakage, Go Inn Green is offering three select classes starting at noon. Sweetest Day Discount: If you pay for your friend to attend any art class, your fee is free! Bring a sweetie pie and enjoy creating a memory and a craft! Art Theme & Schedule: Sticks and Stones, Glass and Bones is the theme. Selected crafts have reduced pricing for multiples.

creating jobs and preserving neighborhoods. Compared to chain stores, independent local businesses put a significantly larger share of revenue back into the local economy in the form of taxes, salaries and more. They also support environmental sustainability by helping to maintain vibrant, walkable town centers, which are essential to reducing sprawl, automobile use, habitat loss and air and water pollution. For more information on Neighborhood Toy Store day, visit ntsd.astratoy.org

Stick Art: From 12pm - 1:30pm, create bird feeders made from up-cycled bar glass from Everett’s and wood donated by H5 Construction from onsite building scrap. This craft costs $25.00 - $40.00 each. Stone Art: From 2pm - 3:30pm, create rockin’ frames and stoned art. This craft costs $25.00 - $40.00 each. Glass & Bone Art: From 4pm - 5:30pm, creat moose bone art wind chimes, mobiles and/ or jewelry. This craft costs $35.00 $50.00 each. Dinner Show: Dinner Show will be starting at 6pm. The dinner show costs $60.00 per person or $100.00 per couple, and it includes a treats and sweets dinner, a complimentary glass of wine, entertainment, a private concert and you can be entered for prizes for costumes. Everett’s Mat-Su has mastered treats and sweets, including a sampling of wine.

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COMMUNITY & EVENTS Contributed by Eddie Ezelle, MatSu Food Bank It seems we are heading into a busy fall. Maybe it’s just me, but time seems to be speeding up. I know summers always went too fast when you were a kid and still had to return to school in the fall, but what about us adults? What’s our excuse? I for one have enough, just trying to keep up with local community events and family. There are many fundraisers coming up in the next three months, peaking at the Christmas Friendship Dinner on Christmas Day. Most of us are aware of the shortfalls and threatening cuts not only to local budgets, but the federal one that affects everyone. Mainly I want to express the feeling from the non-profit world. Some of us could see the gathering storm clouds a few years ago, but others were saying that Chicken Little was alive and well. Chickens or not, here we are in the reality of shortfalls. Many agencies relying on government help are seeing this avenue of funding all but gone.

Contributed by Michelle Overstreet, Executive Director of MY House MY House-KMBQ Radiothon 11/3/2017 – 6AM MY House, KMBQ 99.7 Radio MY House, Gathering Grounds 300 N Willow St. Wasilla FREE Admission On Friday, November 3rd, Valley Radio Q-99.7 and MY House will team up for a radio broadcast that changes young lives in our community. The 12-hour live broadcast from the MY House location reaches around 40,000 listeners across the Valley and Alaska, and showcases formerly homeless youth who have found success through the “hand up, not a hand out” program that MY House offers. Radio personality, Michael Dukes, will be out from Anchorage, courtesy of Ohana Media, and our local superstars, Eddie Maxwell and Brenna, will also be on the air. Expect the governor to call or visit, senators and local representatives who support MY House programs to be on the air and local business owners who have seen the value of the program to be on hand to talk about their support. With tremendous support from the community, MY House and Q-99.7 have raised over $100,000 over the past five years to support services for homeless youth!

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 Enjoy local make-up artists modeling creative work with emphasis on Halloween make-up ideas and free spirit expressions in body art from 6:30pm - 7pm. Go Inn Green supports voting for your favorite make-up artist or model by donating a buck a vote in designated bottle collection sites on your table-top. Special recognition for the most votes will be announced when the band starts.

Ninety-nine percent of Alaska’s nonprofits are feeling the crunch. Some are just now waking up to the idea that they must find support in other ways. Just because I know everyone loves statistics, I’ll throw out some for thought. Laurie Wolf, the President of The Foraker Group, stated in a letter from 2006: “…Alaska has approximately 6,000 non-profits – more per capita (110 per person) than any other state. The sector… employs 10% of Alaska’s workforce. Taken together, non-profit organizations spent nearly $3.5 billion in 2005. That’s virtually the same amount they received in revenue. Revenue for non-profits comes from three sources – fees, government support and private giving – with the federal government providing the largest amount of funding at roughly $1 billion each year, or one-third of all Alaska non-profit revenue. This percentage far exceeds the amount of federal support seen in other states. At the same time, Alaska ranks lowest in the nation in personal giving from households, making over $200,000 a year. In all, the percentage of individual charitable support for nonprofits in our state is far less than such support nationwide. This is a dangerous imbalance fed by the notion that government will

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take care of us, and we don’t have to contribute to our own well-being. Two factors make this revenue balance very troubling. First, federal funding can be fleeting at best and many fear will significantly decrease in coming years. Second, while individual charitable support can grow in our state, it likely will never make up the difference in the loss in federal funding. Unless we change this thinking and build sustainable non-profits that operate with a diverse flow of revenue, a major segment of our economy will pay a price, and ultimately our quality of life in Alaska will suffer.” It is a misconception that “nonprofits” cannot make a profit. This is not entirely true. We can make money, but the profits must be spent for the support of the nonprofit. Any non-profit that runs a business should be supported with our buying power when we can. It is one way we can support the services they supply to those in need through the non-profit. I would encourage everyone to do the research, ask questions and be aware of where your donations of time, money or materials can help with a cause you believe in. We all rely on each other to be a thriving community. Thanks for reading!

Donors provide “match” funds that are offered to those calling in, posting or texting donations with the goal of raising $25,000 on the air. This year has been a tough year for non-profits across the nation, and MY House has felt the pressure. Fundraisers like this help to keep the doors open on a program that benefits our community by: •

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Removing homeless youth from welfare programs that are temporary and do not empower them for long term self-sufficiency. Offers job training and sustainablility skills that make homeless youth employable. Reduces crime and the need to steal to survive for homeless youth, by offering income and the ability to support themselves. Supports recovery from addiction and connects homeless youth with recovery services to help them get clean and become productive. Offers the community a positive place to send homeless youth who may be panhandling, couch surfing and getting into trouble, offering a way out of being homeless.

Please join MY House and Q-99.7 on November 3rd, come by Steamdriven

Music: Blues with HarpDaddy and the Backcountry Mojo will be playing from 7:30pm - 8:30pm during private dinner concert. HarpDaddy and Backcountry Mojo will continues to play as doors open for the public at 9pm - 11pm. This is free admission. Enjoy the best blues and live dance music in the Valley!

Boutique or Gathering Grounds Café or check in with case management on this day to see what is happening! It’s going to be a blast! Most importantly, listen to Q-99.7 on November 3rd, from 6am - 6pm, to hear stories from homeless youth who have turned their lives around, found jobs, completed educations, and who are changing the expectations of homeless youth across the community. These are stories of survivors and thrivers! If you are out and about that day, come by for a cup of coffee or a browse through the Boutique, visit with some of the VIPs who are going to be here and enjoy the sense of community that this organization has been blessed with!

If you would like to participate in the costume contest but not attend the private dinner, a donation of $10.00 at the door will enter your name in for prizes. Call Sukay at 907-232-1242 for more information

HEALTH & COMMUNITY

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

antioxidants that also have been shown to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. Contributed by Dori Cranmore, All About Herbs One of the earliest evidence of honey harvesting is on a rock painting in Valencia, Spain dating back 8,000 years. Archeologists discovered honeycomb in Egypt buried with pharaohs in their tombs. The honey was still edible! Throughout history, honey has been used to heal wounds after battles and is mentioned several times in the Bible. In 1851, Rev. Langstroth from Pennsylvania designed the moveable frame to harvest bees’ honey. What is raw honey? It’s a pure, unfiltered and unpasteurized sweetener made by bees from the nectar of flowers. Most of the honey consumed today is processed honey that’s been heated and filtered since

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day 10/28/2017 – 10AM Wasilla & Palmer Fred Meyers & Talkeetna Sunshine Community Health Center FREE Event On Saturday, October 28, 2017 from 10am to 2 pm, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Mat-Su Borough, Wasilla Police and Palmer Police will give the Mat-Su Valley its 14th opportunity since 2010 to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. Bring your medications for disposal to the Fred Meyer Store in Wasilla or Palmer, or to the Talkeetna Sunshine Community Health Center: Participants may dispose of medication in its original container or by removing

Contributed by Melissa Clampitt, UAF Cooperative Extension Service Preparedness Workshop 10/19/2017 – 6PM UAF Cooperative Extension Service Matanuska Experiment Farm 1509 S Georgeson Rd. Palmer FREE Event In an emergency, every second counts. That is why it is crucial to have a game plan. Whether faced with home evacuation or a brokendown vehicle in the dead of winter, preparation is key for Alaskans. Not sure where to start or how to prepare? No problem!

it was gathered from the hive. Unlike processed honey, raw honey does not get robbed of its incredible nutritional value and health powers. Using local, raw honey can help minimize pollen allergies. The key is finding local honey within 10 miles of you and using it daily. Raw honey is 80% natural sugar, 18% water and 2% vitamins, pollen and proteins. This mix is tested to be the best form of energy for mornings and pre and post workouts. Using raw honey to replace sugar has been studied for weight loss as it can suppress appetite, lower blood sugar (especially when used with cinnamon) and lower triglycerides. Many studies over the years find direct links to the anti-bacterial effects along with immune boosting. Honey contains polyphenols which are powerful

the medication from its container and disposing of it directly into a disposal box. If an original container is submitted, the individual is encouraged to remove any identifying information from the prescription label by either removing the label or utilizing a permanent marker. All solid dosage pharmaceutical products and liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain tightly sealed in their original container. Intravenous solutions, injectables, syringes, chemotherapy medications or medical waste will not be accepted, due to the potential hazard posed by blood-borne pathogens. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. Nationally on April 29th, the DEA and more than 4,200 of its law enforcement and community partners collected

The UAF Cooperative Extension Service is offering an Emergency Preparedness Workshop at the Matanuska Experiment Farm. Join Art Nash, UAF’s energy specialist, as he shares practical tips and ideas and offers economical ways to prepare for just about any emergency scenario. This class is a part of our UAF Centennial Celebration Series, and will be held October 19th at 6pm and is free of charge to the public. Give us a call at 907-745-3360 to learn more or visit our website, www.uaf.edu/ces

Some uses for raw honey and cinnamon: Indigestion: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of raw honey taken before food helps relieve acidity and improves food digestion. Arthritis: Taking one cup of hot water with two tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder on a daily basis can help reduce pain and improve mobility.

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weeks, it can remove the pimples from the root. Applying this paste to eczema, ringworm and other skin infections can help eliminate. Raspy or Sore Throat: For a tickle or raspy throat, take one tablespoon of raw honey every three hours until relieved. Be sure to get quality honey (from bees in your local area is best) and cinnamon that has not been irradiated. Both are available at All About Herbs, Inc. in Wasilla.

Colds: Those suffering from common or severe colds can take one tablespoon of honey with ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon powder for three days. This can stop most coughs and help clear the sinuses. Pimples & Skin Issues: Mix three tablespoons of raw honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder to make a paste. Apply the paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash off in the morning. When done daily for two

more unused prescription drugs than at any of the 12 previous National Prescription Drug Take Back Day events. The event brought in 900,386 pounds (450 tons) at close to 5,500 sites across the nation. Since 2010, these events have altogether collected 8,103,363 pounds (4,052 tons) of prescription drugs. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Initiative addresses a crucial public safety and public health issue. According to the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.4 million Americans abused controlledprescription drugs. The study shows that a majority of abused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet. The DEA’s Take Back Day events provide an opportunity for Americans to prevent drug addiction and overdose deaths.

The Mat-Su Health Foundation recently entered into an agreement to purchase four acres of land in front of Mat-Su Regional Medical Center.

“Too often, unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. That’s dangerous and often tragic,” said Acting DEA Administrator, Chuck Rosenberg. “That’s why it was great to see thousands of folks from across the country clean out their medicine cabinets and turn in - safely and anonymously - a record amount of prescription drugs.” For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the October 28th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, go to www.dea.gov or contact the Mat-Su Borough at (907) 861-8557

foreseeable future.

The land is currently owned by Maple Springs of Alaska. Pending completion of appropriate due diligence, the deal is likely to close in the next 60 days. The Foundation has no immediate plans to develop the land.

“This purchase allows us to be a good partner to Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, complementing and enhancing what is clearly the Foundation’s most important asset,” said Mat-Su Health Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Elizabeth Ripley. “The land is directly in front of the hospital, and adding it to our investment mix is a prudent use of Foundation resources.”

The Mat-Su Veterans Wall of Honor is located on the land, and because the Foundation has no immediate development plans for the land, the wall will not be affected in the

The MSHF invests its assets into charitable works that improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in Mat-Su. More information is available at www.healthymatsu.org.

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HEALTH & COMMUNITY PRESS RELEASE Mat-Su Sertoma Club is pleased to announce that they are offering one full scholarship to attend a 2018 summer camp that provides programs to deaf or hard-of-hearing youth. The Summer Camp Scholarship is for any Alaskan deaf or hard-of-hearing student, ages 13 to 18. The successful winner and Sertoma will determine the location. The Club covers the cost of the camp session and airfare. Alyssa Akers, the 2017 summer camp winner,

Contributed by Ellen Vande Visse, Good Earth Garden School Free Compost Classes Oct. 21, 25, 27, 2017 Nov. 4, 2017 Division of Solid Waste, Mat-Su Borough MSB Landfill 1201 N 49th State St. Palmer FREE Event, Please Register Our landfill is overflowing with garbage. About 40% of this waste is organic matter that’s emiting methane gas and odors and grabbing valuable recreational trail acreage. Yet all this waste could be converted into the valuable soil product called compost. How? Come learn how easy it is - for free!

traveled to Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. and participated in the “Discover Your Future” program with an added bonus of a trip to Six Flags! To be eligible for this scholarship, a deaf or hard-of-hearing student must submit an essay of 500 words or less on the topic: “What is important about your identity as a deaf or hard-ofhearing person in a diverse world?” Essays are due by November 10, 2017 and should be mailed to the Mat Su

Fun and no-cost classes, sponsored by the Mat-Su Borough’s Solid Waste Division, will train you to be a certified expert composter. Discover the mysteries revealed: how chunks of, well, raw potato peels, grass, leaves, manure and paper plates miraculously turn into fragrant, rich compost. No need to spend money taking compostables to the dump, or to demolish more precious land! Certified trainings for Backyard Composters and Vermi-(worm) Composter are two hours long with hands-on participation and demonstration. The Master Composter training is two days. Master Composters share their expertise by pledging volunteer service hours. They help others in the community to become successful composters.

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Sertoma Club, P. O. Box 874202, Wasilla, Alaska 99687. The successful winner will be announced by Thanksgiving. The Mat-Su Sertoma Club was founded in 2009. Many Valley residents are familiar with the annual event we coordinate – The Mat-Su Plunge, “The Original Valley Dip!”. This annual event has raised almost $300,000 for local non-profit organizations and scholarships. The Plunge is scheduled for February 17, 2018, and is one of the Valley’s great winter events to attend.

You receive certification at the completion of any of the training sessions. The Mat-Su Borough started offering these classes in September, and they will continue through October and early November. Request a flyer and register at 8617605. Schedules are on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MatSuLandfill

ACCOMMODATIONS Houston Lodge Marketplace…. 892-5124 Sunset View Resort ........ 892-8595 ADULT PIANO LESSONS Hitchcock Piano Studio ........ 745-3134 APPAREL All Seasons Clothing ........ 357-0123 D’s Tuxedo ........ 707-6585 Mimi’s Closet ........ 376-2661 ART & CRAFTS Artists Uncorked… 982-2675 Shane Lamb Gallery… 746-3343 The Gallery ........ 745-1420 BOOKSTORE Fireside Books ........ 745-2665 A Black Sheep Shop ......... 376-8198 CAFÉ & COFFEE Alaska Artisan Coffee ........ 745-5543 Espresso Café ........ 376-5282 Gathering Grounds ........ 376-4404 Vagabond Blue……..745-2233 COOKWARE All I Saw Cookware ........ 376-3177 CREATIVE ENTERTAINMENT Artists Uncorked ........ 982-2675 EDUCATION Learning Essentials ........ 357-3990 FLOWERS & GIFTS Charlotte’s Flowers ........ 745-5550 FOOTWEAR Northern Comfort ........ 376-5403 HEALTH & WELLNESS All About Herbs ........ 376-8327 Invest in Yourself Fitness .... 830-6072 HOME DÉCOR Cover Ups Designs ........ 746-4739 PIZZA Humdingers Pizza ........ 745-7499 PRINT SERVICES The UPS Store ........ 376-6245 RADIO 95.5 The Pass ........ 631-0877

Contributed by Patti Fisher, The Plastic Bag Committee The Plastic Bag Committee has been talking a lot about plastic bags for the last year - the hazards of singleuse plastic bags to the environment and the ugliness they cause in our beautiful valley. Surveys show that people are acknowledging that those bags are a problem. They would like to make a change in their habits, taking fewer bags from the store. But people tell me that it is hard to change old habits. I absolutely understand. For the longest time, my reusable bags got left in the car when I shopped. So here are a few tips on how to change the old plastic bag habit: 1. First off, don’t be stressed if you leave your bags in the car. If you don’t have your reusable bags, just have the clerk put your purchases directly in the cart. You have a receipt and can hold it in your hand as you leave.

2. Keep a basket in your car, and you can transfer your purchases directly to the basket. 3. To always have a reusable bag with you when shopping, consider getting a compact nylon bag that compresses into its own stuff sack and fits in your coat pocket. Or get some string or mesh bags, which can also go in a pocket. 4. Items like milk in a jug do not have to be bagged. Reusable bags are available in different colors, styles and sizes. Find some kind of colorful, fun bag you like and use it at all the stores you visit.

REPAIR, RESTORATION Comtronics ........ 373-2669 Steve’s Toyostove…. 376-9276 SMOKE SHOPS Alaska Pipe Dreams ........ 746-1500 Light It Up Head Shop…. 745-5483 SPECIALTY GIFTS Alaska Midnite Scents ........ 357-7364 THRIFT SHOPS Red Barn Thrift Store ........ 745-5050 Steam Driven Boutique ........ 376-4404 Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Stores ........ 376-5708 Willow Rose Thrift Store ......... 495-ROSE TOYS Just Imagine Toys ........ 357-1543 Learning Essentials .......... 357-3990

The Plastic Bag Campaign will be handing out reusable bags at various locations in the next few months. If you see us, stop by to say hello and give us your suggestions on how to break the plastic bag habit. And at the store, just say no to plastic bags.

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COMMUNITY & EVENTS 610 S Valley Way, Palmer FREE Admission Halloween Community Potluck & Scary Readings 10/29/2017 - 4:30PM My Matanuska Marketplace Palmer Train Depot 610 S Valley Way, Palmer FREE Event, Bring Potluck Dish to Share My Matanuska Marketplace is a locallyowned business that takes pride in helping other local, small businesses to establish themselves and to be successful!

Contributed by Andrea Fuller, My Matanuska Marketplace Spook-tacular Shopping Event! 10/28/2017 - 10:30AM My Matanuska Marketplace Palmer Train Depot

Contributed by Mari Jo Parks, Mat-Su Special Santa Program Halloween Hollow 10/31/2017 - 3PM Alaska Family Services, Mat-Su Special Santa Program Alaska State Fairgrounds, Raven Hall 2075 Glenn Hwy. Palmer Cost: $6 or 1 Unwrapped Toy

Contributed by Lhing McNeal , Filipino American Community of Matsu Come and join us for the Filipino American Community of Matsu’s

Andrea Fuller, Creator of Opportunity and owner of My Matanuska Marketplace offers a wide variety of services, such as event coordination, business promotion, retail opportunities, and business networking and collaboration opportunities.

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

up for all of you ghosts and goblins out there! A huge shopping event being held this month is the “Spook-tacular Shopping Event” on Saturday, October 28th from 10:30am - 5:30pm. Stop in and get ahead for the holidays! We will have another gift basket giveaway with goodies generously donated by the small businesses at the event! This shopping event will be unique in that the vendors will be dressing up in costume to add a bit of fun! There will be a gift wrapping station for your holiday purchases (for donation)! Families and pets are encouraged to stop by and trick or treat! Costumes are encouraged and we will have some door prizes! There will be face painting and a scary hair booth that you can come and get done up if you are going out to a party later that evening!

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was the most unrecognized disorder for returning Vietnam veterans, as well as for the veterans of all previous wars. Not reacting to this disorder cost thousands of lives due to suicide, mental illness and chronic health issues aggregated by PTSD. The outlook started to change in the early eighties, when the VA finally recognized PTSD and started treating it. Gulf War Syndrome was another illness where the medical community was late to address its long-term effects on servicemembers. The first responders to 9/11 in New York have had a much higher percentage of their peers contracting lung and other types of cancer at an alarming rate. Police, EMTs and firefighters have been dying prematurely due to the toxic nature of the attack. The wars in Irag and Afghanistan have the been the genesis of the major reason many veterans are having invisible health problems. The culprit is TBI or traumatic brain injury. When an IED (improvised explosive device) damages a servicemember’s limbs

which takes place on Sunday, October 29th from 4:30pm - 7:30pm. We have enlisted a crew of community volunteers to help read more than a few unnerving Halloween-inspired tales from the stage. Invite your friends and family down to the event and have a hauntingly good time! The entry fee to the event is an ample potluck offering! The doors will creak open at 4:30pm, with the potluck dinner expected to be served by 5pm, followed by the scary readings. Creative Halloween-themed dishes are encouraged! Although not required, community members are encouraged to come in their favorite Halloween costume. Questions? Contact Andrea Fuller, Creator of Opportunity and owner of My Matanuska Marketplace, at (907) 354-3569. Like My Matanuska Marketplace on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ MyMatanuskaMarketplace

Heading into the holiday season, we have a big Halloween weekend lined

Last but not least is the “Halloween Community Potluck & Scary Readings”,

Alaska Family Services presents Halloween Hollow on Tuesday, October 31st at the Alaska State Fairgrounds.

community favorite for children and parents. Community organizations and businesses host a booth with their very own game at the Valley’s version of Halloween fun. Booths include Pumpkin Bowling, the Flame Terminator, Goblin Golfing, Balloon Delights, Mrs. Claus, the US Marines for Toys for Tots and much more.

thanks to the community’s generosity. Families in need apply and provide the Program with a wish list from every child.

This fun event is the kick-off fundraiser for the Mat-Su Special Santa Program.

For more information about the Mat-Su Special Santa Program go to www.specialsanta.net

Last year, over 3,760 children from our Valley received gifts for Christmas,

You can also join us on Facebook.

1136 S Cobb St. Palmer Cost: $10 per person, $15 per family

As we Filipinos love to share our traditional food, it will be a potluck, so bring your favorite dish to share!

Raven Hall will be transformed into a trick or treat carnival that provides children of the Valley with a safe, warm and handicap-accessible event for Halloween. This marvelous annual event, now in its 16th year, has become a

annual Halloween night event on October 29th. Family Halloween Night 10/29/2017 – 3PM Palmer Moose Lodge

It starts at 3pm at the Palmer Moose Lodge. This is a family-friendly event where kids can enjoy the indoor trick or treats through fun games, wear their creative costumes and win a prize.

The Program provides not just toys, but much needed items like school supplies, personal items and winter wear.

A percentage of proceeds from this event will go towards our Holiday Blessing project to feed families in need this holiday season.

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

VETERANS Contributed by Major Mike Dryden, USAR Retired

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beyond repair, it’s apparent to the public. However, when a soldier suffers a head injury, they tend to “shake it off” and return to the battle since their buddies are lying on the ground bleeding and dying. In the above scenario, the soldiers who have had “their bell rung” by an explosion may have had a loss of situational awareness, a severe headache or other TBI symptoms which may have disappeared by the time the action subsided. The servicemember’s commitment to the unit’s objective may have prevented a potential TBI injury from being reported. It’s not until the injured servicemember returns home and the change in behavior is observed by a loved one. A TBI injury may be sustained by being near an explosion, being hit by a bat or similar object or by a flying projectile. The range of TBI injuries begins with mild TBI; the major symptom is a loss of consciousness for 30 minutes or less. Since 2007, the VA has begun to screen combat veterans for TBI, an effort which should be applauded. The VA has been the target of a great deal of bad press, most of it welldeserved. But this move to screen veterans will go a long way to prevent the downstream effects that people

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living with PTSD had to encounter. The results of a CAT scan or MRI may be negative in the case of mild TBI, but should be monitored for changes. Cases of mild TBI may lead to Post-concussion Syndrome or PCS. Retired pro football players have been diagnosed with this condition.

Be careful and be aware that substance abuse and physical abuse co-exist, but the on-set isn’t always at the same time. Early diagnoses are important to recovery. However, the veteran may not want any help, so that early intervention may be your only course of action.

The most observable symptom of mild TBI is an abuse of alcohol and other addictive drugs. The scenario is predictable since there aren’t any new plays in the alcoholic’s playbook. Some of the most popular alcoholic abuser’s excuses are, “I can quit anytime.”, “You would drink too if you had seen the crap I have.” and “Everybody in my unit drinks a lot.” Or, “It’s my money, and I will spend it where I want to.” Confronting the veteran alone is a waste of time.

An affected servicemember may discover they feel the effects of alcohol sooner than before the injury. Some other warning signs to be cognizance of are increased fatigue, insomnia and development of cognitive issues (ADD, memory loss and processing issues) and ED (erectile dysfunction).

You can try loving the addiction away, ignoring the behavior or bitching about it, but you are doomed to failure. An addict’s drug of choice moves to the number one position in their life. So, what’s a loved one to do? First is to seek some consulting for yourself until you can approach the situation with clinical eyes. Remember, you don’t have the problem and the person you care about is no longer inside that body lying next to you at night. That person is inside there somewhere. It’s the job of a trained professional with no emotional ties to attack the veteran’s issues. Your support is paramount, but remember, “It ain’t about you, Princess.

Mild TBI has been highlighted because more advanced cases can be detected by MRIs and CAT scans. Hopefully, the VA’s screening process will result in keeping cases of TBI from progressing. With the VA’s help and the support of the veteran’s community, including our great service organizations, we will hopefully prevent the personal destruction that occurred in the past by delayed recognition of so many disorders that were service related. For more detailed information, go to www.VA.gov and www.military.com. From these two sites, you can follow hyperlinks to many other resources to combat this problem. Until next month, the Major is RTB.

COMMUNITY PRESS RELEASE U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) spoke on the Senate floor recently in recognition of Rozann Kimpton of Wasilla, a coordinator with the Volunteers of America Grandfamilies and the 2017 recipient of the Alaska Angels in Adoption Award. Kimpton was recognized as part of Senator Sullivan’s series, “Alaskan of the Week”. The following is the statement submitted to the Congressional Record: Tribute to Rozann Kimpton “Mr. President, every week, I have been coming to the floor to talk about my state and what I think makes it the greatest state in the country and in the world. We like to celebrate and recognize somebody in Alaska who is making a difference for their community, for the state and for the country, and we like to call these extraordinary Alaskan individuals our Alaskan of the Week. Like many of us here in the Senate, I spent a lot of time recently in August traveling throughout my home state. Wherever I went, I met strong, generous, versatile Alaskans, many of whom survive in some of the harshest conditions on the planet, but still have time for their communities and their families and their neighbors. But like in many places around the country, I also saw the scourge of addiction that is tearing apart communities and tearing apart families. We have all heard how addiction is often passed down through generations. There are many in Alaska and many throughout the country who are determined to break this intergenerational cycle of addiction and many who are succeeding. We don’t always hear about them, but there are many. So this afternoon, I wish to introduce my colleagues to 81 year old Rozann Kimpton, our Alaskan of the Week, who is doing that and a lot more. Rozann and her husband moved to Alaska from Washington State in 1958, and they immediately settled in. They ran businesses together,

including a small retail store, and then they got into construction and contracting. They raised two children. They were a team. About 10 years ago, they moved to a large plot of land in Wasilla, AK - over 50 acres - to spend time in retirement, and they made plans: gardening and traveling around the world. But it didn’t take long for Rozann to recognize that something was wrong - very wrong in her family, particularly with what was happening to two of her great grandchildren, Luke and Amanda. They were living in a situation that was harmful to them and they needed help. At this point, Rozann’s husband was also suffering from his own illness cancer - but the two of them took Luke and Amanda in and adopted them. “It was the only way to make sure they were safe,’’ Rozann said. “And when a kid needs to be taken care of, and when a mommy and daddy can’t, you do it,” she said. “I couldn’t live with myself knowing that they were in danger and I did nothing.” This is Rozann talking about her two great grandkids. That was 10 years ago. Rozann, now a widow, lives with Amanda and Luke on that big plot of land in Wasilla. Amanda is a senior in high school and Luke is an eighth grader. They are great kids. As a matter of fact, I had the opportunity to visit with them in my office. Amanda loves geometry. She plays a violin with the Wasilla Youth Orchestra and drums and dances with the Intertribal Drum Group in Anchorage. Luke’s big dream is to join the Navy, which I think is great. The three of them volunteer in their community, helping foster kids. Amanda makes blankets for the foster kids. Every Sunday, they drive over 100 miles to attend Emanuel Presbyterian Church in Anchorage, which is like a second home to all of them. In addition to all of this, Rozann is the area volunteer coordinator for Volunteers of America Grandfamilies, a grandparents support group. Once a month, she has a picnic for her fellow grandparents and other parents who have adopted kids. The kids

As the opioid crisis is hitting Alaska, just like it is hitting so many other states, she is seeing more and more grandparents stepping in. “It is a plague,’” she said. “But the most important thing is to help the children as early as possible, and to do what we can to make sure they don’t carry on that plague.’’ Rozann Kimpton was here right in Washington, DC. As I mentioned, I had a great meeting with her. She came here to attend a banquet where her efforts are being recognized. She is the 2017 recipient of the Alaska Angels in Adoption Award and was recognized by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption. Rozann, thank you for your warmth and for all your hard work for Alaska. Congratulations on your award, and congratulations on being our Alaskan of the Week.”

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Contributed by Vicky Dawson Join a new flute ensemble starting in the Mat-Su Valley. If you enjoy playing and performing with others to the beautiful sounds of flutes ranging from piccolo to the bass flute, think about joining the Valley’s newest flute group.

Contributed by Paul Morley, MSSF Board of Directors

This year MSSF will offer four $1,000 grants and one $1,000 Gorilla Fireworks grant for a Houston middle or high school teacher. Deadline for online applications is Monday, October 23, 2017. The application link and further information can be found at our website: www. matsuschoolsfoundation.org. In 2016, six grants were awarded to the following schools and teachers: • Michael Backus, Teeland Elementary School: $1000 grant for an IoT (Internet of Things) Smarthome for their new computers elective course. Students learn programming by solving programming puzzles online, building simple apps and programming robots. With IoT technology, the students are able to control objects in the physical world from the Internet • Becky Moren, Talkeetna Elementary School: $1000 grant towards their “Project Ocean” field trip to Homer. The 4th and 5th grade five-day field trip was the culmination

“I am not a shy person,” she said. “I will talk to anyone who looks like they are struggling, and I am particularly good at spotting grandparents who are raising kids - grandparents who are raising kids throughout our great nation.”

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EDUCATION Every October, the Mat-Su Schools Foundation reviews grant proposals which expand educational opportunities for kids beyond what limited school budgets can provide. Proposals are considered for their sustainability, the number of kids they serve and the degree to which they benefit student learning.

play games and eat hamburgers and hot dogs, and adults sit around the campfire, share stories and encourage one another in all the work they are doing. She is in constant contact with about 25 families, and whenever she spots someone she thinks might need help with their kids, their grandkids or their great grandkids, she gives them her card.

•

of a nine-week long academic program that includes studentinitiated projects and intensive instruction in marine science and outdoor education. The curriculum integrates math, science, reading, research, technology and PE skills. Sharon Johnson, Dena’ina Elementary School: $1008 grant to build a leveled library of “just right” books primarily for grades K-2. The books provide young readers with a diversity of non-fiction and fiction stories. Connie Bamburg, Teeland Middle School: $968 grant for fidget-friendly items. The materials enhance student learning by allowing children to focus on the work required of them, while still allowing their bodies to move. Diane Clawson, Palmer Jr. Middle School: $950 grant for mini quadcopters. The quadcopters inspire students and develop problemsolving skills, logical thinking, organization, precision, inquiry, responsibility, collaboration and sportsmanship. Chris Gooch, Colony High School: $1060 grant for equipment to study physics video analysis of motion. By recording video of moving objects with a high definition camera, the video can be slowed down and examined to study physics in action. Nicole Kelpe and Joshua Rockey, Sutton Elementary School: $1000 grant for their 5th grade field trip to the state capital. The trip focused

on government and science, and was the culmination of a year-long study of civics and government. Students observed our state legislature in session and met people who make the laws we live by. Students also took a boat tour focused on marine science, glaciers and local ecology. The Matanuska-Susitna Schools Foundation is a nonprofit, taxexempt corporation organized to support student learning by providing supplemental funding for education. Children are our future. Therefore, investments in improving educational opportunities for kids are investments in our community and society as a whole. Contributions to the Mat-Su Schools Foundation are exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3) and are tax deductible. To learn more, make a contribution or become a member, you can go to matsuschoolsfoundation.org. Annual membership is $10, lifetime membership is $75. The Mat-Su Schools Foundation seeking to expand its board of directors and is inviting community members to consider sharing their talents, ideas and enthusiasm. If you have questions, feel free to contact us at info@matsuschoolsfoundation. com. We’re also on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ MatSuSchoolsFoundation/

Rehearsals will be on Tuesdays from 6pm – 7pm at Pioneer Peak Elementary School. This group will be open to juniors and seniors in high school and adults. For questions or to sign up, please call Vicky at 907-232-2153.

POLITICS / OPINION Contributed by Josh Fryfogle II just had the opportunity to sit and talk with Edith Grunwald, who recently sent a shockwave through the Alaskan political scene with her announcement that she is running for lieutenant governor. A familiar name, Alaska came to know Edie after her son, David Grunwald, was murdered. We grieved with her, in person, online, on the news - it was the topic of concern for so many of us. Her tireless effort to find her son, and the tragedy of that event, allowed Alaskans a chance to get to know Edie and her heart. For many Alaskans, that is more than enough reason to vote for Grunwald. However, I left our meeting with a fuller understanding of who Edie Grunwald is, and why she is uniquely

Contributed by Jessica Wright, Wasilla, AK I remember once when we were in a large building, and one man came along and asked rather loudly, “Who is Stephen Wright?” I guess he was demanding someone to give him an answer. I thought it was kind of funny that this man had such an urgent want to know who my husband was. Most Alaskans don’t know who Stephen Wright is, so I would like to tell you a little bit about him, since he’s going to enter the politics arena for the second time. Last time, he lost to Don Young in the Primary and this time around, he’s running for lieutenant governor teaming up with Alaskan Native candidate, Michael Sheldon, who’s running for governor. Stephen Wright was born on Elmendorf AFB when his father was station in Anchorage during the Vietnam War. Then his family moved to Washington State. He grew up in a small farming town located in central

How Alaska Statute 08.08.210 and 230 violates the 1st, 5th and 6th Amendments, Acts of Congress and Supreme Court rulings. Contributed by Anonymous, because it is not about me. What do lawyers have against freedom of speech? Money. Why is the practice of law not defined in the Alaska Statutes? And why does the Alaska Statutes tell us to use lawyer’s private bar rules to find the definition of practice law? The Alaska state legislators cannot define the practice of law because Congress and the United States Supreme Court already have. The 6th Amendment was ratified December 15, 1791; this guaranteed you “Assistance of Counsel”. This is where a non-lawyers could help you in court. In the Judiciary Act of Sept. 24, 1798, which said, “In each district of a meet person learned in the law to act as attorney…” Under 12 Statutes at Large section 31 (1862), 13 Statutes at Large, section 43 (1864) and 14 Statutes at Large, section 43 (1866) all say the same thing under “Lawyer”. It said, “Every person who for fee or reward shall prosecute, defend causes in court of record or other judicial

qualified to run for office. In fact, she very well could be one of the most qualified politicians in the state, if you take her career and military experience into account. First and foremost, voters might not realize that Edie Grunwald retired from the military at the rank of colonel. More than that, she was even approved by the Senate to serve as a general. Seriously folks, that is a formidable resume. She is strongly interested in SB 91, a bill that has been widely criticized as soft on crime, contributing to the rise in crime that so many Alaskans are talking about lately. Of course, the loss of Edie’s son, David, qualifies her in a way that no one would choose. Edie left the military, rather than pursuing her career path to the prestigious rank of general, because she wanted to spend time with David as he went through high school and

Washington, outside Moses Lake. I was told that this town was called Ephrata because it reminded the settlers of Bethlehem. The town was a close-knit community with around 3,000 people. Most people there are honest, hardworking and God-fearing country folks. Stephen attended elementary school all the way to high school in Ephrata. After graduating from high school, he served for two years in mission. Then he attended Ricks College for two semesters while he was delayed, enlisted or waiting for his deferment to enter the United States Air Force. Then he met me. We had a 3-month courtship and then we got married. He was stationed in Grand Folks, North Dakota working on the B-1B aircraft. We have five sons: three are in college and two are still in high school. Stephen Wright served in the military for 22 years, and then he retired here in Alaska. He enjoys fixing things, so he is getting involved in the politics. The military career prepared him to be a public servant. Not only has he earned his bachelor degrees in accounting and accounting Management from Parks

tribunal of the United States or of any of the states, or whose business it is to give legal advice in relation to any cause or matter whatever, shall be deemed to be a lawyer.”

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

college. And he was on track until his life was cut short. This left Edie’s heart and home with an emptiness, and an endless reason to affect change in Alaska. It was only natural, with her years of service to our country, that she channel her life experience back in to public service. In addition to her military career, Edie holds two master’s degrees, one in Business Organizational Management and a master’s in Strategy (Military and National Security) Sr. Certified Human Resources, through the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM-SCP). And when it comes to the economy, Grunwald plans to put her education and experience to the test. Although the public might primarily associate her with the epidemic of crime, because of how it has touched her family, she also happens to be someone of personal and public accomplishment - qualifications that would make any career politician envious. We spoke about a variety of topics, and I captured some video during

College while in the military, but also earned a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Wayland Baptist University. The military experience and the positions he has held have trained him to be an efficient public servant. For example, while stationed overseas, he had to work with civilian contractors, military personnel from other entities and report to two generals in two different commands and a two-star general when required. He also worked as a resource advisor for three years. He learned to be inventive in finding new resources and efficient by cutting wasteful spending. Stephen Wright likes sports. He played baseball and football in high school. He played softball on and off base. When our kids were growing up, he coached for the little leagues and flag football. His true passion however, is in politics. He likes to go to meetings to meet people and talk about the current affairs in our local community. He also likes to have his voice be heard by bearing his testimonies in the

act as attorneys of another.” For 35 years, Bouvier’s was the first and only law dictionary used by lawyers and Assistance of Counsel’s.

In Bouvier’s Law Dictionary and Black’s Law Dictionary under “Lawyer”, the first word was changed from every person to any person.

The Civil Rights Act of 1866 (aka the Private Attorney General Act) gave the people the same rights as the federal or state’s attorney general to bring suites in the name of the people when those who hold public offices as federal or state attorneys generals or county prosecutors who fail or refuse to protect the people’s rights.

Lawyer: a person learned in the law; as attorney, counsel or solicitor.

August 21, 1878, the American Bar started.

“Any person who, for fee or reward, prosecutes or defends causes in court of record or other judicial tribunals of the United States or of any of the states, or whose business it is to give legal advice in relation to any causes or matter whatever.” Act of July 13, 1866, section 9. (14 St. at Large, 121.

Bouvier’s Law Dictionary (1914) page 691 shows that counsel/counsellor at law and attorney at law are not the same.

This meant that everyone who wanted to be a lawyer with a little knowledge was deemed a lawyer.

This so called “Act of July 13, 1866” was to tax lawyers only and gave no other authority to them. This act is no longer mentioned in Black’s Law Dictionaries. Bouvier’s Law Dictionary 1856 under “Lawyer” only said, “A counselor; one learned in the law.” Bouvier’s Law Dictionary 1856 under Attorney #3, “All persons who are capable of acting for themselves, may

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Black’s Law Dictionary 3rd Edition (1933) page 1079, a new line was added under “Lawyer: a person licensed to practice law.” Administrative Procedures Act of 1946, Section 6 (a), this gave a private citizen, non-lawyer the right to act as counsel on behalf of the private citizen in court without having a law degree. The Administrative Procedures Act came about because of the “New Deal”. This was to give the people a remedy against public agencies or departments that bring any and all allegations/claims against the people.

our interview that will soon be edited and shared online. This article is just to whet your interest, not just in my upcoming video interview, but the coming political race that is sure to capture the attention of everyone in our state. After meeting with Edie, and learning more about her background, I found myself asking the obvious question: Why is she running for Lt. Governor, why not Governor? I’m willing to bet a lot of people are asking the same question.

hearing for SB26 and SB15. He likes to jump in the middle of action, instead of watching from the sideline. That’s why he has decided to run for the lieutenant governor position opposing the often ill-fated governor’s approach to taking, cutting and limiting our PFD, refusing to balance the public and private sector. He is hoping to fix the problems we are facing today within our state. Stephen Wright is a true conservative unlike some candidates who claim they are. He believes in pro-life, 2nd Amendment right to carry arms, limited government and most importantly, he believes the PFD rightfully belongs to the people of Alaska and that government should not take it from the people. He calls himself the PFD Protector. He also wants to fix our state government, which he believes is inefficient and wasteful. Ultimately, he wants to make Alaska a better place to live: more jobs, more money and more freedom by using our natural resources, claiming our land back, building up infrastructure, etc. So there you have it, Alaska. This is Stephen Wright.

Today in the United States Attorney’s Manual section 3-2.110 under “History” it said, “A meet person learned in the law to act as attorney…” Same as the Judiciary Act of 1798. The lower inferior local courts combined the 6th Amendment Counsel and Lawyer without the consent of Congress or the Supreme Court. They just put it in their law books. In Black’s Law Dictionary Revised Fourth Edition (1968) page 155, was the first time the 6th Amendment Assistance of Counsel was ever mentioned in bar law dictionaries after the lawyers’ definition was changed in 1933. Attorney in Fact/Power of Attorney is not a lawyer/attorney. A jailhouse lawyer is also not a lawyer. Title 42 U.S.C. sec. 1983, Wood v. Breier, 54 F.R.D. 7, 10-11 (E.D. Wis. 1972). Alaska Bar Rules 15 and 63 can only apply to disbarred or suspended lawyers. This is a freedom of speech issue. For a lot more information, contact 1akjoe@mtaonline.net.

POLITICS / OPINION Contributed by David Eastman Something broke in Alaska over the course of this past year, and it won’t be as easy to fix as a window. Our state government broke faith with the people of Alaska. Alaskans feel betrayed.; Betrayed by a governor who campaigned on not touching the dividend. Betrayed by politicians who joined him in taking not just a small portion, but in fact the lion’s share of the PFD, and not once, but two years in a row now. Until last year, Alaskans relied on state law to calculate the value of the dividend. That state law is now rendered meaningless. The dividend will now be whatever they say it is. And we are told that we should be grateful if, on Oct 5th, there is still some portion of it left that has not been turned over to satisfy the needs of the state bureaucracy. Betrayed by a governor and legislature who promised cuts to state government, but then voted to maintain the same overall level of spending as before, even while taking real money from Alaskan families ($9,176.00 has now been taken from every family of four, and the part of the dividend taken by government is

Contributed by Mike Dryden, Wasilla City Council Member Fall is in the air - snow is moving down the mountains, your moose is in your freezer or still in your dreams (wait until next year) and the City/ Borough election is history. Yours truly as well as Mayor Bert Cottle, Councilmember Glenda Ledford and Deputy Mayor Stu Graham would like to thank the voters for your support. We will endeavor to earn your confidence and continuing support in the coming term. The temporary sales tax increase was approved by the City of Wasilla voters, so the planning for our new Wasilla Police Complex can continue at a more rapid pace. We all can look forward to the completion in 2020, when the new site decreases police response time in Wasilla. The new borough-wide dispatch system operated by the Wasilla Police Department has already decreased wait time for citizens calling 911, and the new modern more centrally located police department will vastly improve police service to the

Contributed by Vic Kohring “If you tell a big enough lie and tell it frequently enough, it will be believed.” Words from Adolf Hitler, the basis of his playbook from which the liberal media justifies much of its reporting. Our increasingly godless society is manifesting itself in the form of a constant media assault against conservatives and Christians, especially against our president. A recent Harvard study showed 93% of mainstream press coverage on Donald Trump to be negative, compared with only 40% against Barack Obama during his tenure. The onslaught has turned into an ugly mud storm against the president. The online news is full of hostility, whether it’s Yahoo, Google and any number of outlets - a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week bashing of the man. The same with print, TV and radio. We’re witnessing the biggest witch hunt in U.S. political history, unprecedented, as the anti-Trump press chorus reaches a fever-pitch. It’s an attempted overthrow of the president, a brazen, unabashed effort to oust him in a bloodless coup. The press keeps manufacturing lies and

MAT-SU VALLEY, ALASKA

expected to grow significantly over the next few years).

very same people who sailed the ship onto the rocks just moments before.

Betrayed by a governor and legislature that have demonstrated an incredible appetite for taking power from the people. Alaskans went to the polls to reduce legislative sessions from 121 days to 90 days. They put a 90-day limit permanently into state law. Nearly endless special sessions have now made that law all but meaningless. The legislature was in session for its first 180 days this year. Having already more than doubled the 90-day session this year, the governor has now called the legislature back into yet another 30-day session to pass an income tax. As Mark Twain warned, “No man’s life, liberty or property are safe while the legislature is in session.”

The solution is not to send 60 legislators back to Juneau for another 30 days and hope they “get it right” this time. If more than 180 days of session is not enough, what is?

Betrayed by elected officials whose actions have made us less safe today than we were this time last year. A friend had to call 911 this morning... again. More gunfire in his neighborhood in Anchorage. The word is out that you may now catch a glimpse of people spray painting vehicles in the parking lot of Lowe’s as you drive by. Vehicle thefts are off the charts. Government is the only entity I know, whose undeniable failures inspire some people to consistently give more and more power and control to the

community. The mayor and the city council believes forward-funding for a major capital project like the police complex is ethical, responsible fiscal management of taxpayers dollars. Some have voiced their opinion in opposition to the City’s pay-as-you-go method. Instead of the forward-funding of a capital project, they supported raising funds by issuing long-term bonds. Why would a governing body ever put children in elementary schools today in debt, when a short-term option like forward-funding is available? The political landscape is strewn with failed cities who put everything from paint to police cars on their credit card. The once great city of Chicago can’t pay it’s debts and has raised taxes so high, the residents that were left to pay the tab have moved. Almost every week, a city or county in California become insolvent. When the ribbon is cut at the new Wasilla Police Complex, it will be debt free. Some of the highlights on the council’s agenda this month,

smearing our leader, whether it’s alleged racism, being anti-immigrant, stealing away your healthcare or driving us to nuclear war with North Korea. They are a destructive mouthpiece for the Left whose first priority is clearly not our country, but the annihilation of their political opponents in an out of control frenzy. Led by the press, most bastions of American liberalism are in a hysteria of hatred against the president, including Hollywood, college campuses and our upstanding Congress, that respected group of politicians with an 11% approval rating lead by John McCain and Nancy Pelosi. Then there are the George Soros-bankrolled organizations manipulating millennials like puppets who scream in the streets, smash windows and harass motorists. Free speech is a meaningless provision of the constitution to these groups, unless that speech is progressive doctrine. And it’s okay to riot against conservatives if you disagree with them, including looting, burning and engaging in violence. False charges have been levied en masse against Trump as the entrenched media gushes hate with relentless dishonesty. He needs to fight back and obliterate them with the truth. To start, get them off the front row in the White House press room and out of view of TV cameras. Stop giving them a forum at press

As our employers, ask yourself this question: Has our performance as part-time legislators merited a promotion to full-time status? And what positive thing can come from yet another 30-day special session focused on creating a new state income tax?

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obvious errors. The governor now proposes to tack on a second fix-it law to correct still further errors, without getting to the heart of what was wrong with the original bill. Alaskans who have been watching the current crime wave roll through our communities will not be satisfied with their elected representatives going back to Juneau yet again, and returning home in November with another “fix-it” law. They deserve an apology from those who supported a law that plainly violated both reason and common sense.

Alaskans feel betrayed today by a state government that is out of control, and a legislature whose job it was to keep that from happening. More time in Juneau is not the answer.

There is no better apology today than a straight-forward and complete repeal of the law. Once it is repealed, we can immediately begin work on specific reforms, this time in consult with law enforcement and victims’ rights organizations. It is no longer just about finding the right laws to put on the books and the right amount of funding to execute those laws.

There is one thing that legislators can do in next month›s special session that would actually be a meaningful step towards regaining the trust of the people of Alaska. That is an immediate and total repeal of SB91.

It is about restoring faith in our legislative process, and recognizing that in order for criminal justice reform to work, the people must be on board before the train leaves the station.

SB91 was passed against the protest of law enforcement all across Alaska. It was a 125-page monstrosity that was impossible for legislators (much less members of the public) to understand as it was pushed through the process. The governor has already signed one law just to correct some of its more

Rep. David Eastman is a conservative legislator in Alaska, representing the rural Mat-Su Valley (House District 10). He ran on a platform of fighting for genuine conservative reform, fiscally and socially, and remains committed to delivering on that promise.

which may be found at the City of Wasilla website, are the numerous youth and not-so-young activities at the wonderful city library. More details are online and at the library’s reception area. The staff at the library have something going on for the kids every week, so visit the city’s newest attraction.

funds transfers and proclamations by the mayor.

The Curtis Menard Memorial Sports Complex will receive funds from the council to start an Advanced Hockey League Program via intradepartmental transfer. This new program should be of interest to all you hockey fans, so check it out. The regular council meetings for October have been scheduled for October 9th and the 23rd at 6PM or 1800 hours for you military types. The regular agenda items are reports from all department heads, a spokesperson for the Friends of the Library and a report covering student activities from Katelyn Boswell, a student attending Wasilla High School. The main items on the October 9th agenda are the certification of the election and a special meeting concerning the special session from Rep. Collen Sullivan-Leonard. Several routine housekeeping items will be addressed like intra-departmental

conferences to spew their venom as they push false narratives on the public. You can see the anger in the faces of the anxious reporters from such vaunted news entities as the Clinton News Network (CNN), the Washington Compost and the Huffington, Puffington Post. Quit being nice to these hacks as if appeasing them. I saw enough of that in Juneau while serving in the legislature where weak-kneed pols placated reporters. We’re witnessing an unrivaled persecution of our president. Yet ne’er a word against Obama after so many egregious, impeachable acts. Trump gets two scoops of ice cream on his pie, doesn’t wave from Air Force One or ask that Americans stand for the Pledge of Allegiance and is eviscerated with a headline story, replete with personal criticism and speculation as to sinister motives. Obama’s failure to protect our Libyan embassy resulted in the slaughter of Ambassador Stevens and other staff, and yet he’s treated with kid gloves and let off the hook. The disaster, rife with misleading statements and a cover-up, made Watergate look like Mickey Mouse by comparison. Remember, no one died in Watergate. Even our very own Alaska Dispatch News has jumped on the lefty bandwagon (at least prior to its recent change in ownership), repeating erroneous stories from back east.

As always, the public is invited to express their opinion in the public arena. Seasoned visitors have been known to avail themselves of all of the opportunities on the agenda. The number of opportunities to speak for three minutes ranges from three to as many as there are items discussed in the meeting. As I have stated in the past, your participation in your city council meetings is the grassroots of American democracy as envisioned by the founders. The city council will let you opine without regards to your address. All input is welcome. Until next month, be safe and wellinformed, and God bless America. Author’s Note: The above column represents, unless otherwise noted, the opinions of Mike Dryden and not necessarily the City of Wasilla or any other organization with which he is associated. Editor’s Note: This article has been published after the October 9th meeting. However, the minutes are presently available at www.cityofwasilla.com

A Washington Post “story” in May (more of a hit piece) ripped Trump for supposedly passing classified material to the Russians in an Oval Office meeting. The Dispatch News mimics the national media, although they’re far less egregious than their predecessor, the Anchorage Daily News. They’re still a mostly left wing mouthpiece presenting so-called news in a quiet, subtle manner, whereas the Daily News was downright viscous in its unabashed hatred of conservatives, myself included. The mainstream press is an enemy of America as they disgorge poisonous propaganda while advocating socialism, heavy government controls on Americans and usurping individual freedoms. Most consist of yellow journalists who, under the cloak of alleged constitutional protection, prefer to impede forward progress of our country, undermine the president’s efforts to build a strong economy with substantial job growth and establish a high standard of living for the middle class. They would rather bring the U.S. to its knees to fulfill their political agenda than work to make it a better place. Our rivals throughout the world are witnessing our destruction from within without firing a shot. God help us.

PETS & ANIMALS

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Thrice is a 5-year-old Labrador, husky mix. He is a playful boy who is full of energy. Thrice would do best in a home with no children as he has been aggressive towards them. Thrice has shown some food aggression so a separate feeding area would be a good idea. He is house trained, kennel trained and used to riding in vehicles. He can be described as friendly, cuddly, smart, adventurous, vocal, and entertaining. Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter 907-746-5500

Contributed by Tracy Smith, Animal Care Dispatcher at Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter Denali is thought to be about 3 years old. Her former owners told us that she is a real sweetheart and loves to cuddle. However, she will do best in a home without small pets, particularly birds. She has lots of energy and will be a great companion for someone who likes to run or go for long walks. Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter 907-746-5500

Whisper is a beautiful blue-eyed ivory girl, a sleek Siamese. She is a year or two old.

She now believes that there is hope of a good life and she so wants that. But she is not sure how to create a bond with people. She does try and she enjoys being pet at times. She has learned to trust her foster mom and likes hanging out in the house with her and her kitty friends. She will be a wonderful, beloved girl for a person or family that will give her time and the love needed to allow her to trust and to believe that she is loved. She will be the devoted “spirit cat” for some lucky person. Whisper is sponsored, and she can be adopted to a loving family for $40! In Wasilla. Clear Creek Cat Rescue (907) 980-8898

Bella will only be adopted to a home with no other dogs. She will need to be the only dog now and forever. Bella is a very sweet dog. She enjoys chasing balls, and volunteers have even noted that she has good manners when they are walking her in and out of the doors of the shelter. She waits instead of charging through with her excitement. Bella also seems to like women better than men, loves to play and loves kids. She’s a cuddler and protector. She will sit and stay on command. Bella has been through multiple homes and is still looking for the family who is dedicated to continued training with her. She should be in a home where she is trained to kennel when left alone and unsupervised. Bella will need a strong handler who earns her respect while providing her with training to be a well-behaved dog and confident companion.

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann M.S., Clear Creek Cat Rescue

Whisper is a special girl who needs a special family. She does well with most other cats, though she also enjoys her private time and space at times as well. She was born in a feral colony that was dying of starvation and distemper, always struggling to get enough food and trying to stay warm in winter. She had little chance to know people in any kind way until she was trapped and went into foster care.

Contributed by Tracy Smith, Animal Care Dispatcher at Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann, M.S., Clear Creek Cat Rescue Luna is a gorgeous, calico girl with a flag tail and such pretty colors. She is maybe a year old. We are surprised that wonderful Luna still hasn’t been adopted, but we are confident that her forever family is out there. She loves people, and when held she will purr and lay her head on your shoulder. She spends a lot of time outside so she must have a safe yard to go play and explore. She is good with dogs and cats, and will need a kitty friend in her new home. She should be just fine with nice kids too. In Palmer, call 350-8089. Luna is sponsored and can be adopted to a loving family for $40! Clear Creek Cat Rescue (907) 980-8898

She is a beautiful girl who needs some loving stability in her life. Bella not only needs to be the only dog in the home, but she will need an experienced handler when out on walks in order to help her avoid problems with other dogs that are not leashed or restrained. Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter 907-746-5500

PETS & ANIMALS Contributed by Lynsey Ryan, Volunteer at Clear Creek Cat Rescue

Please join the Clear Creek Cat Rescue on October 21st for this year’s Paw-ctober Fest! This event is happening from 12pm to 6:30pm to benefit the Clear Creek Cat Rescue.

Paw-ctober Fest 10/21/2017 – 12PM Clear Creek Cat Rescue 1591 Creste Foris St. Wasilla FREE Admission

At the Paw-ctober Fest, you will find lots of vendors to shop from, prizes, handmade items, baked goods and food truck vendors! You can purchase pet microchips for $30 and pet/human photography for $20.

Contributed by Angie Lewis, President of Alaska Animal Advocates

is more common for small-breed dogs to have problems with these glands, rather than larger dogs. Anal gland problems are usually easy to detect during a routine veterinary exam, without requiring any special tests. Treatment involves manually expressing or emptying the glands.

You probably don’t ever think about your dog’s anal glands, until they get impacted and become a problem for your pet. The anal glands are small glands found on either side of your dog’s anus. These glands secrete a fluid that is used by your dog to mark his territory. Usually, these glands empty naturally, but if they don’t, problems can occur.

This can be done by inserting fingers, or a thumb and forefinger gently into the anus. Apply pressure on either side of the anus and press inward and upward. A rather smelly fluid will be released. Typically, a veterinarian will do this procedure, but some people are able to do this on their own. Often, this can be done during a dog grooming session.

Symptoms can include your dog scooting his bottom on the floor or a nasty odor from your dog’s rear. Dogs often lick or bite at the area, as a result of the discomfort they are feeling. These symptoms typically indicate that the anal glands have become infected. It

If your dog has frequent problems with this issue, your veterinarian may ask that you make changes to his diet to include more fiber. If your dog has a more bulky stool, this will enable the anal glands to be expressed when he defecates. There are natural products that can

Gumdrop is about 8 years old, a house cat, litter trained and declawed. She can be a bit aloof and standoffish, but warms up once she gets to know you.

I am a spayed female, brown and tan Chesapeake Bay Retriever mix.

Even though she is reported to tolerate dogs and kids, she would probably be most comfortable in an adult only home with no other pets.

The shelter thinks I am about 6 years old. I have been at the shelter since Sep 23, 2017. Ask for information about animal ID number A064262

Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter 907-746-5500

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Please keep all pets restrained during this event with leashes and carriers.

help treat infected anal glands, or your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics. On occasion, cancer can be found in an anal sac and the tumor may have to be surgically removed. The success rate for this surgery is very high. So, when you bring your dog to his veterinarian for an annual exam, make certain to have his anal glands checked and expressed if necessary.

I am a spayed female, blue and white American Pit Bull Terrier. The shelter thinks I am about 5 years old. I have been at the shelter since Oct 11, 2017. Ask for information about animal ID number A065360 Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter 907-746-5500

COMMUNITY EVENTS Contributed by Ryanne Ori Consign49 Fall/Holiday 2017 Event November 9-12, 2017 - 9AM Alaska State Fairgrounds, Raven Hall 2075 Glenn Hwy. Palmer FREE Event How would you like to score a Coach handbag for $20 or a near new condition pair of Dansko shoes for $30? These are just a couple of examples of the thousands of deals to be found at the upcoming 10th semi-annual Consign49 consignment event. Consign49 is a 4-day event held each spring and fall, in which over 150 local community members bring new and gently-used clothing, accessories, and

Contributed by Kaitlin M. Rock Alaska Chicks Company’s Vintage Home Market November 18-19, 2017 Saturday @9AM, Sunday @10AM Alaska State Fairgrounds, Raven Hall & the Hoskins Building Admission: Saturday $3 General/ Kids FREE, Sunday FREE Need to find the perfect gift? That one piece of furniture or décor you’ve been missing? A cozy hoodie

home décor items all under one roof to form a large-scale resale pop-up. Each consignor individually prices and tags each item, and items are dropped off approximately one day before the sale begins. Consgin49 volunteers work to organize all items, so everything can be easily shopped according to category and size. There is also a dedicated boutique section, in which local boutiques have brand new items for sale, often at discounted prices. In addition, there is “vendor row” where approximately twenty local businesses will have booths for sharing their products and services. Consgin49 owner, Ryanne Ori, says, “This event benefits all involved, and is recycling at its best.” Consignors get to

to fight off the winter chill? Look no further than Alaska Chicks Company’s Vintage Home Market! Mark your calendars for November 18th and 19th, and come to the Alaska State Fairgrounds! Shop nearly a hundred local vendors in Raven Hall and the Hoskins building, enjoy live music from Alaskan artists, and grab a yummy treat from Alaska Soda Jerk, Sweetie Pie Deep Fried Pies, the Waffles and Whatnot truck outside and many more!

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clear out items from their homes, while earning some extra cash. Shoppers get the opportunity to buy brand name items or much-needed seasonal items, for a fraction of retail prices. Additionally, many items that go unsold at the conclusion of the event are donated to local charities in need. The Consign49 Fall/Holiday 2017 Event will be held November 9th12th at Raven Hall at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer, Alaska. Admission and parking are free, all major credit cards are accepted and dressing rooms are available for trying on clothing items. Hours are 9am – 8pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and from 9am – 5pm on Sunday. On Sunday, many remaining items will be marked half price, depending on whether or not the consignor chose to put the item into the half-price sale.

On Saturday from 9am-3pm, come take selfies with a real live reindeer, bring the kids to visit Santa Claus (10am-4pm on Saturday, 10am-3pm on Sunday) and don’t forget to check out holiday cooking demonstrations with Winona Benson of Nourished Health Coaching Services! There’s too much good stuff going on to miss this! Join Alaska Chicks Company for the Vintage Holiday Market on Saturday, November 18th from 9am-6pm ($3 admission,

If you are interested in becoming a consignor at the event, please go to www.consign49.com for more information. Consignor spots are limited and will be on a first come basis. Additionally, a limited number of vendor spaces are available. Please send an email to info@consgin49.com for more information.

free for 12 and under) and Sunday, November 19th (free for everyone) from 10am-5pm!