The People's Paper June 2024

COMMUNITY

First Lady’s Volunteer Award 2024

Contributed by Anonymous

First Lady Rose Dunleavy congratulated seven Alaskans at the First Lady’s Volunteer Award luncheon at the Governor’s Residence in Juneau, Alaska on May 6, 2024. First Lady Rose Dunleavy shared how this is one of her favorite events of the year. She spoke about how the volunteers in attendance are all selfless, caring and make positive impacts in their communities. Palmer resident, Christine Greco was honored to be included with the other 6 volunteers that were being recognized. Christine absolutely loves giving of her time with the teenagers in the MatSu Valley. She says it is such a joy to help them get involved with serving in the community and it makes her heart happy when she sees them having fun and connecting with those that they help out.

Patience

Contributed by Debra McGhan

Patience. It is said to have this is a virtue. I’ve realized over my seven decades of life, it’s not inherently one of my better traits. Ask anyone who has driven or ridden in a car with me. I admit I have trouble understanding why it takes some people so long (in my mind) to figure out what’s going on in any given situation. Like, look left in a roundabout, that’s it. If no one is there, go. I have learned, in many cases the hard way, that there is great merit in this virtue of patience.

Understanding how to embrace this quality, practice, and hone it is proving well worth the effort. Patience has saved me from deadly injuries, allowed me to achieve goals without giving up, and so much more. Patients and perseverance make a good team. I admit I often get bored or distracted trying to be patient so I move on leaving the thing I was so impatient about unfinished. I have plenty of those projects like cleaning closets, organizing boxes of photos, creating a museum exhibit, and books I’m writing but have yet to finish. I’m planning to get to these projects… someday. Life willing. At least that’s my big ambition. Until someday comes, I’ll keep persistently pushing forward with impatience toward self-generated goals that I have hopes will

John 13:34 “I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.”

2024 VOLUNTEER HONOREES FROM THE MATSU VALLEY: Christine Greco, Palmer The hockey community in Alaska wouldn’t be the same without the dedication and volunteerism of Christine Greco. While not only volunteering to manage several youth hockey teams, Christine coordinates volunteer opportunities for the youth players to give back to their community, demonstrating the need for volunteers and how rewarding it can be. The young athletes have helped at local school events such as carnivals, reading to students, and packing up classrooms when labor is needed. The athletes have officiated and coached

one day actually help to improve the world. Or at least my tiny part of our planet. Right now, with the United States population at seemingly odds over a multitude of topics,

I find it more important than ever to be patient with friends and family that may see things from the opposite side of where I’m looking. I’m confident that one day all of this will pass and we will be facing new challenges. I pray those do not include a war being fought in our backyard.

I do know, and history has proven this fact over and over, that when people band together for a common good, they can achieve anything. Instead we are living in a time when wars are waging across the planet and festering right here in America.

It is a sad crime that so much money is being spent on guns and bombs instead of food to feed the hungry, homes for the homeless, and most of all, fighting a changing climate that will inevitably kill us all if we don’t do something as a collective planet to alter this course we are on. You can be a denier all you want but hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, floods, heat waves, earthquakes and more do not care what you ‘choose’ to believe.

It doesn’t matter which side of any issue you are on, eventually reality will show us all the truth. It’s only a matter of time. For many, the possibility of something catastrophic happening doesn’t make any difference to what they believe because they are not currently being affected. But like everything in life, if you choose to ignore the facts about a problem and are not prepared, it will not matter when reality comes knocking. Unless you are

younger hockey players in tournaments, helped community members move, shovel or plow snow, rake and complete yardwork along with giving of their time to help Special Santa close up shop. Christine also coordinates the Rocking Hockey event in Palmer where local hockey players volunteer with special needs students on the ice. Christine goes above and beyond providing opportunities for the athlete to be involved in their community and give back to those that have supported them. She is a role model by the selfless way she leads and is the definition of an outstanding Alaskan. Lynda Chud, Wasilla Lynda has been a volunteer at the local homeless youth Center, MyHouse located in Wasilla, for over 10 years. As the MyHouse Empowerment Coach, Lynda facilitates the Women’s Empowerment Group. She volunteers

several times each week to meet individually with clients or to take a group out for a special field trip. Lynda loves to take the residents of MyHouse out to dinner, to a local play, art shows or music events. Lynda is a retired schoolteacher and has experience working with youth who have been trafficked and who have experienced extreme trauma. She has voluntarily gone to training and participated in classes that will give her the knowledge needed to give youth the encouragement they need to hang on, have hope and heal. Lynda has impacted the lives of so many youth in such a positive way. She shows them love and courage. Lynda is recognized for the incredible asset she is to MyHouse, to the community and to our beautiful State.

actively trying to find the truth by patiently following the facts and then preparing accordingly, the odds are the outcome will not be favorable.

I embrace the philosophy, ‘In a world where you can be anything, be kind.’

That’s what I want to be. Kind, thoughtful, considerate, persistent in achieving goals, and patient with the way things are today because they will change. They are changing. As a friend once told me, life is change.

I’m hoping that the next chapter in our lives will have new characters who are positive role models we are proud to look up to and

aspire to be like. I strive to practice patience because a new day is coming and I know the things we are stressed about today will not even matter anymore. Today I’m preparing for things I cannot control but know might be coming like emergencies and natural disasters. I am listening to my gut and if something doesn’t feel right, I trust myself to keep searching.

I’ve learned the hard way, we may only have today. So be patient with yourself, your family and your friends. We’re all in this together and one day we will all be gone.

Lt. Governor Dahlstrom, Christine Greco and First Lady Rose Dunleavy

Pictured left to right: Christine Greco, Andrea McCormick, Lynda Chud, First Lady Rose Dunleavy, Lt. Governor Dahlstrom, Margaret Varlamos, Emily Machos, Katherine Mead (not pictured: Bristy Larsen) All photos courtesy of the Greco Family

DANI CAMPBELL PREPARES FOR A CANOE TRIP.

COMMUNITY

Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce Celebrates the 28th Annual Military Appreciation Lunch

turnout, showcasing the community’s unwavering support and gratitude for our military personnel.

The luncheon featured an inspiring keynote presentation by Dr. Sean McPeck, who spoke on how military teachings can be applied to civilian jobs. Dr. McPeck’s address highlighted the significant contributions and sacrifices made by our armed forces, and how the skills and values learned in the military can benefit various sectors of civilian life. His heartfelt words resonated deeply with all attendees, underscoring the importance of recognizing and honoring those who serve our nation.

made the 28th Annual Military Appreciation Lunch a resounding success. We look forward to continuing this tradition and further strengthening our support for the military community in the years to come.

Jessica Viera, CEO of the Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce, expressed her gratitude to the community for their participation and support. “The strong turnout, despite the rain, is a testament to our community’s dedication to honoring our strong military and Veteran presence in the Valley. We are immensely grateful to Dr. Sean McPeck for his inspiring keynote presentation and to all who attended and supported this important event,” Viera stated.

The Military Appreciation Lunch has long been a cherished tradition in Wasilla, bringing together community members, business leaders, and military personnel to celebrate and honor the service and sacrifice of our armed forces. This year’s event continued this tradition, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation among all who attended.

The Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who

For more information, please contact the Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce at (907) 376-1299 or visit our website at www.wasillachamber.org.

Media Contact: Jessica Viera CEO, Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce Phone: (907) 376-1299

Email: jessica@wasillachamber.org

About the Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce: The Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to fostering economic growth, community development, and support for local businesses in Wasilla, Alaska. Through events, advocacy, and resources, the Chamber strives to create a vibrant and thriving business environment for all.

Have a membership-related question? Curious about joining? Schedule a membership meeting today!

Contributed by Jeni McDaniel

We are thrilled to announce that Cottonwood Creek Elementary School in Wasilla has been selected as the 2024 Alaska Scottish Highland Games (ASHG) Honored School! To celebrate this special honor, the Alaskan Scottish Club (ASC) has gifted a ticket to the 2024 Alaska Scottish Highland Games to every student and staff member at Cottonwood Creek.

The excitement began early for Cottonwood Creek Elementary. On the last day of school, some of our incredible Heavy Events Athletes and ASC Board Members visited the school’s field day.

Not only did they demonstrate the traditional Scottish throwing events, but they also taught the students how to throw, giving them a unique opportunity to experience being Highland Games athletes for a day. It was an unforgettable experience for everyone involved, as the kids enjoyed hands-on learning and participation in these historic sports.

The ASHG Honored School is a community outreach initiative designed to share the rich Scottish culture and the excitement of the Highland Games with local schools. Each year, the ASC selects a different school to be the Honored School, fostering a connection between students and the vibrant traditions of the Scottish Highlands.

The program began in 2023 with Lake Hood Elementary School in Anchorage, AK, as the inaugural Honored School. This initiative has been instrumental in bringing cultural awareness and community spirit to young students, allowing them to experience the unique and thrilling world of the Highland Games.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Cottonwood Creek Elementary School and eagerly anticipate seeing all the students and staff at the 2024 Alaska Scottish Highland Games. This year’s event promises to be spectacular, with a blend of athletic prowess, cultural displays, and family fun. From the awe-inspiring caber toss to the bustling Celtic Marketplace, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’d like your school to be considered for the Honored School in 2025, please email us at ashg@alaskanscottish.org. The ASC is committed to fostering educational and cultural enrichment through this exciting program, and we look forward to partnering with more schools in the future.

Mark Your Calendars

The 2024

by Jessica Viera

The Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Ambassador Committee, Speaker Dr Sean McPeck, and representatives from Durham School Services

Discover Your Future Career with Nine Star

Contributed by Deb Lundy

Nine Star Mat-Su

Are you unsure about your career path? Tired of working minimum wage jobs with no growth? Join us at Nine Star to explore exciting career opportunities right here in our community!

This summer, we’re hosting a series of events with speakers from various industries, offering insights and guidance on how to step into fulfilling, well-paying careers. Don’t miss out on this chance to start building your future today!

June 17 (9:30 - 11:00) - Keys to Financial Literacy: MAC Federal Credit Union

June 18 (1:00 - 2:30) – Entrepreneurship: Keys to Owning Your Own Business

June 19 (9:30 – 11:00) – Keys to Information Technology Careers

June 20 (1:00 – 2:30) – Army National Guard as a Career July 9 (9:00 – 10:30) – Keys to Financial Literacy: Global Credit Union (11:00 – 12:00) – Keys to the Carpenters Union

July 10 (10:00 – 11:00) – Keys to the Laborers Union

July 11 (9:00 – 10:30) – Keys to the Teamsters: Local 959 (1:00 – 2:30) – Keys to a career in Public Safety

Walk-ins welcome, but space is limited, so call 907-373-7833 if you want to reserve a spot. Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/NineStarMatSu/) or check out our website (ninestar.org/mat-su-adult-education/) for updates and additional workshops.

Fighting Daylight and Enjoying the Beauty

It has been a dream come true to visit Alaska before I retire from nursing. I am a dialysis nurse and author of seven books. I am currently working on an eighth book, which I am writing while staying in Palmer, Alaska. My landlord was so gracious to give us some fresh salmon on our arrival as well that he caught.

For the next 13 weeks, I will be working in dialysis. Excited to serve the patients here and to explore the beautiful mountains and landscapes in the area. You might even see me fishing. I will be giving out my latest book to people in the area. Yesterday, I met Mike and Gary on Mount Flattop in Anchorage and gave them a signed copy. May the Lord continue to shine His light on Alaska and the beauty of His creation.

Mike Martin, RN, 843 957 3206

New Christian Support Group - Beyond Walls

Contributed by Karen E Wilbanks

Alaska Correctional Ministries, Inc.

Alaska Correctional Ministries recently partnered with Recovery Alaska to create a Christian-based support group for adult family members and close friends of incarcerated men and women. Beyond Walls is a safe venue providing support to you and

and

www.GodinPrison.com.

Matsu Valley Rebuild is celebrating our Five-Year Anniversary on June 22 and raising money to keep MVR going. MVR is the non-profit used building materials store in the Valley. Our mission is to keep useful building supplies out of the landfill and available to our neighbors. We have saved a lot of stuff in our first five years and we have big plans for the future; including a tool library (currently under construction), a community garden (being installed), classes and workshops, a pickup service, a bicycle department and more.

It’s gonna be an all-day party at MVR. We’ll have shopping during the day (12-5pm) with delicious Farm Loop Coffee available while you check out the inventory in the store, the silent auction items and of course, purchase your raffle tickets to win some pretty awesome prizes.

MVR’s Five-Year Jam! is going to be a ton of fun; there will be food trucks including Sea Garden Alaska, Nets Thai Kitchen and Exquisite Urban Taste serving great eats all afternoon and into

Matsu Valley Rebuild Is Hosting Five-Year Jam!

the evening. Then the games come out, beer and wine get tapped and the party starts. The Goddamn Ranchhand Band is jamming from 7-11pm, the 50/50 raffle happens and the big raffle and silent auction all get settled from 7-8pm.

Raffle tickets are available now at MVR for the big raffle items; you can purchase a $100 raffle ticket to win one of five awesome prizes; a Dewalt 6-tool kit ($550 value), a custom, locally made mortis and tenon, shaker-style end table from LC Nord Woodworking ($700 value), a pair of tickets on a 26 Glacier Cruise by Phillips Cruises and Tours, $300 cash and a big wicked basket. Tickets are on sale now at MVR, by emailing valleyrebuild@gmail.com or calling in to the store: 745-2211. There are only 150 tickets, that’s a 1-in-30 chance of winning a sweet prize!

There will also be silent auctions for inventory items at MVR; a new Broan stainless range hood, a new Kraus kitchen sink, a walkin bathtub (over $7,000 value) and a 3-sided gas fireplace (over $4000 value).

All proceeds benefit MVR and our effort to complete the down-payment on our forever home. It’s crunch-time for this awesome community resource to make this happen and we need your support!

More information is available at matsuvalleyrebuild.com and on facebook.

MVR’s Five-Year Jam!

June 22, at Matsu Valley Rebuild 12151 East Palmer-Wasilla Highway

Contributed by Karen E. Wilbanks

Alaska Correctional Ministries, Inc.

Alaska Correctional Ministries (ACM) is grateful for the support of Thrifter’s Rock in Palmer, Alaska. ACM is a Christian Ministry to incarcerated men and women throughout the State of Alaska. ACM has also recently launched a Christian Support Group for adult family members and close friends of the

incarcerated.

Executive Director, Chaplain Rudy Bosley, recently visited Thrifter’s Rock to accept their check of $1,065.55. Check out the video on Thrifter’s Rock Facebook page. The next time you are in their area, stop in and visit Thrifter’s Rock in Palmer!

To learn more about Alaska Correctional Ministries, visit our website at vwww.GodinPrison.com

Alaska Warrior Partnership's mission is to Empower Alaska to Empower Veterans. www.alaskawarriorpartnership.org

Our Commitment

The Alaska Warrior Partnership™ (AKWP) is committed to improving veterans' quality of life in the state of Alaska through the coordination of local services and opportunities; from housing and employment to enrollment in VA ebenefits, healthcare, recreation, and more.

WARRIORS’ CORNER

Our Goals

The goal of The Alaska Warrior Partnership™ (AKWP) is to build a partnership of local Alaskan resources, improve the quality of life for all veterans, their families, and caregivers, and end veteran suicide. More info available at alaskawarriorpartnership.org or 907-312-7229.

VFW Susitna Post 9365 Honors Memorial Day 2024

Contributed by Adrian A. Hart, Post Senior Vice Commander

VFW Susitna Post 9365 honored our fallen on Memorial Day 2024 at Wasilla’s Aurora Cemetery. VFW Susitna Post selects a veteran’s final resting place

every year and honors our fallen in this solemn ceremony. The event began at the Matsu Veterans Wall of Honor at 801 Wasilla Fishhook Rd, Wasilla, AK. The event involved a procession to the cemetery supported by the Wasilla Police Department and led by the Scouts carrying our nation’s colors to the cemetery, followed by the comrades and auxiliary of the post and community members. Upon arriving at the designated site, the ceremony included a 21-gun salute and taps performed by the American

Legion Post 35 Honor Guard. The post also supported Am Vets Post 9 with this year’s Matsu Veteran’s Wall of Honor service, concluding the day with a community barbecue at the post home.

VFW Susitna Post 9365 honors our veterans and our community. One of our upcoming events is our Fourth of July event, held after the annual parade. We invite the community to come and celebrate our Nation’s Birthday. In addition to hosting several community events, VFW Post 9365 supports our youth in pursuit

of higher education through our youth programs. For more information, visit VFW Post 9365. If you are a veteran who needs assistance with filing your VA claim, please reach out to our friendly Veteran Service Officers at (907) 257-4801.

The VFW will also be supporting the VA Women’s Veteran Conference on June 22, 2024; for more information, visit VA Women’s Veteran Conference.

The VFW will also support Matsu Links with their annual resource fair on June 27, 2024, from 11 AM to 3 PM at Wasilla’s Iditapark. The VFW will have an information table at Palmer’s Chamber of Commerce’s Friday Fling on July 5, 2024. Stop by!

VAREP-South Central Alaska Chapter Warms Hearts and Homes:

A Beacon of Hope for Local Veterans

Contributed by Jessy Lakin

In the heart of Alaska’s chilling winters, where temperatures plummet and snow blankets the landscape, warmth isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for survival. For many local veterans, however, even this basic necessity was out of reach, until the South Central Alaska chapter of Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP) stepped in, proving once again that heroes don’t always wear capes; sometimes, they wear the uniform of unwavering commitment and compassion.

In a recent heartwarming endeavor, VAREP members rallied to the aid of three separate veterans who found themselves facing the bitter cold without the means to restore heat to their homes. These veterans, who had selflessly served their nation, were now grappling with the harsh realities of financial hardship, unable to afford the replacement of their now inoperative

home heating systems. As temperatures plummeted and the cold threatened to invade their sanctuaries, hope seemed like a distant memory.

But where despair loomed, VAREP saw an opportunity to make a difference. With their unwavering dedication to supporting veterans in need, the organization swiftly sprang into action, coordinating efforts to fund the replacement of the heating systems for these deserving individuals. For these veterans, who had sacrificed so much for their country, VAREP’s intervention was nothing short of a lifeline, a beacon of hope illuminating the darkness of uncertainty.

The impact of VAREP’s initiative extended far beyond the restoration of warmth to these homes; it restored faith in the power of community and solidarity. It reaffirmed the bond that exists between those who have served, reminding veterans that they are never alone in their struggles. Through their actions, VAREP not only provided

practical assistance but also sent a powerful message: that the sacrifices made by veterans will never be forgotten, and their well-being will always be a priority.

But VAREP’s commitment to supporting veterans goes beyond this singular act of kindness. As an organization dedicated to empowering veterans through homeownership and financial stability, VAREP continues to be a steadfast ally for those who have served. Through a range of programs and initiatives, including financial education, homeownership assistance, and community outreach, VAREP strives to ensure that veterans have the support and resources they need to thrive in civilian life.

In the spirit of unity and gratitude, let us take a moment to salute the VAREP-South Central Alaska chapter of for their tireless efforts on behalf of our local veterans. Their compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to service are a shining example of the best of humanity. As we gather around the warmth of our own hearths, let us remember those who have sacrificed so

much and honor their legacy by continuing to support organizations like VAREP, who embody the true spirit of community and compassion.

In a world that often seems fraught with division and discord, VAREP stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that when we come together in service of a common good, there is no challenge too great, no hardship too daunting. Together, let us continue to uphold the values of honor, integrity, and solidarity, ensuring that no veteran is ever left behind or forgotten in the cold.

If you or someone you know is a veteran and is struggling with some sort of hardship; likely suffering in silence to overcome a challenge with a seemingly unachievable solution, reach out to VAREP or another local veteran non-profit organization for assistance. Help is available! No challenge should be so large, so daunting that it keeps our nation’s warriors from enjoying the life, liberty and happiness that they’ve sacrificed so much to preserve!

The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Alaska Behavioral Health

by Jessy Lakin

Contributed

There is hope for the men and women who served our country and who continue to battle the invisible wounds often associated with their military service. The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics at Alaska Behavioral Health is filling the gaps in care, providing evidence-based mental health services to post-9/11 veterans, active duty service members, the National Guard and Reserves, and military families. The

Cohen Clinics, located in Anchorage and Fairbanks, also help connect veteran and military families to community resources, as necessary, through its case management services.

The goal of the Cohen Clinics is to remove barriers to care while providing high quality, accessible mental health services in Alaska. Services are available regardless of discharge status, role while in uniform, combat experience, ability to pay or insurance.

That means, someone who wore a military uniform for one day, or who received an other than honorable discharge, can seek care at the clinics –no questions asked. Active duty service members can receive therapy at the Alaska Cohen Clinics with a TRICARE referral, and the entire military family can call the clinics for help. At our Cohen Clinics, “family” is defined by the veteran or service member, which can include spouses or partners, children, siblings, parents, caregivers, and others. Care is available in-person in Anchorage and Fairbanks, or throughout Alaska through CVN telehealth, fact-toface video therapy. A number of mental health challenges can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, anger, PTSD, grief and loss, family issues, transition challenges, relationship problems, and children’s behavioral problems. The clinics also offer group therapy for challenges such as insomnia and depression. You will find the Alaska Cohen Clinic teams at community events and on military bases throughout the Anchorage region and the Interior. By partnering with organizations like Alaska Warrior Partnership, Wounded Warrior Project, ASYMCA, the American Foundation for

Suicide Prevention, Gold Star Peak, Inc. and more, we broaden our impact to provide the mental health care Alaska’s veteran and military communities need. We also work to be a connection point for our communities. Our Anchorage location can host small groups in our community room and our Fairbanks staff leads a coalition of behavioral health providers who meet monthly and collaborate to better serve Interior Alaska.

Cohen Veterans Network, a national nonprofit network of mental health clinics for military families, partnered locally with Alaska Behavioral Health to ensure that every veteran and family member has access to high-quality mental health care that enables them to lead fulfilling and productive lives. The first Cohen Clinic opened in Alaska in July 2020 in Anchorage, with the second location opening in Fairbanks in 2022. We welcome you to contact us to learn about how we can support you in getting back to better.

Phone: 907-762-8668

Email: AnchorageCVN@akbh.org 1450 Muldoon Rd #111 Anchorage, AK 99504 or 926 Aspen Street Fairbanks, AK 99709

WARRIORS’ CORNER

They Are Still Marines!

Contributed by Col Suellyn Wright Novak Alaska Veterans Museum

In 1918, the Secretary of the Navy permitted women to enroll as clerical staff in the Marine Corps. The first recoded female Marine was Opha May Johnson, enlisting on August 13, 1918. She was followed by 304 other fearless women who took over stateside clerical; duties to free up battle-ready male Marines.

On October 31, 1942, Secretary Frank Knox authorized the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve; on November 7th the Marine Corps Commandant Lieutenant General Thomas Holcomb approved the creation. In 1943, Colonel Ruth Cheney Streeter was its first Director. By way of background, in WW II there was only one female Colonel authorized for each of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps [WAAC], the Navy Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service [WAVES]. The SPARS [ acronym for the Coast Guard Motto - Semper Paratus - Always Ready] were the US Coast Guard Women’s Reserve, and breaking tradition, they were headed by a US Navy WAVE, Lieutenant Dorothy C. Stratton was their Director.

In 1943,Captain Anne Lentz was the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve first commissioned officer, and Private Lucille McClaren was the first female enlisted Marine. on March 13th, 1943the first class of 71 officer candidates enter US Naval Midshipmen’s School at Mt Holyoke, MA to begin training with the WAVES.. on March 26th, 1943722 enlisted Women Reserves (WR) begin training at the US Naval Training School at Hunter College, the Bronx NY, once again training with the WAVES. April 25th the first class of enlisted graduated and reported to active duty. About 525women entered every2 weeks for a four week course. May 4th saw the graduation of the first class of officer candidates. Their training lasted eight

COMMUNITY

Exercise that’s Good for the Heart and Soul

Contributed by Randi Perlman

The human body was designed for movement, and the more we move, the better we feel. At Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. (WASI), there’s a whole lotta movement going on every Monday through Friday. WASI’s Club50 Fitness Center provides healthy-aging classes for individuals 60 years of age or older such as Strong Seniors, Yoga, Bingocize, and Tai Chi at various times throughout the weekdays, and these classes are FREE!! That’s an amazing value and benefit to anyone choosing to get moving, get healthier, and feel better. The classes are led by trained volunteers who enjoy both the benefits of regular exercise and guiding participants through the specific movements. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie in each of the classes, and everyone knows each other by name. Some folks are loyal to one particular class, while others ‘cross-train’ and take several different classes on different days. There are even training aids available, like leg and hand-held weights, exer-

cise balls, hula hoops (remember those?), and ‘noodles’. If you want to know what noodles are, come try a class!

While most classes are free, Club50 also has exercise equipment such as treadmills, recumbent bicycles, bench press and others. For unlimited use of that equipment, there is a small monthly fee of $10 with a WASI membership or $15 for non-members. For more information on Club50, call 907-206-8807.

Class members often share how much better they are feeling and doing since starting to work out at Club50. Some of these shared stories are truly amazing and inspiring to those around them. Ray Fackrell says exercising at Club50 has really helped him. Two years ago he couldn’t get up the stairs without one foot and then the other while holding tightly onto the banister. Now he says, “I go up those 16 stairs without using the banister and not putting one foot and then the other!”.

Marguerite Guest has been exercising at WASI’s Club50 for many years. She says, “I’m 73 and I can still lift 40 pounds of dog food!”. For over sixteen years, Guest has also been a trained Leader of the Strong Seniors class and feels that commitment has really helped her become more social, get out of the house, and keep her exercising. “When you are leading others, there’s an accountability that has been very beneficial for me”. The classes are extremely important to Guest and keep her feeling stronger.

WASI is always looking for people who would like to be a class Leader. Some of their current Leaders are in their mid-80s. Anyone can become a trained Strong Senior Leader by taking a one-day class given by the Cooperative Extension. If you have a particular dance or different type of exercise class you’d like to teach, contact Club50 to discuss the possibilities. Guest would love for someone to come and teach ‘Laughter Yoga’. Apparently when we laugh, good-feeling endorphins are released, and as the name implies, it sounds like great fun!

As Guest mentioned, another plus about coming to WASI is socializing and enjoying good company over both exercise and good food. If you work up an appetite after your exercise class, you can enjoy a healthy, delicious meal for a suggested donation of only $6 per person! Where else can you eat a balanced lunch surrounded by friendly folks for a price like that these days…??

Do your heart and soul a favor and come explore what WASI, and Club50, have to offer. It’s a valuable asset to our community, and to our own health and wellbeing. Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1981 with a mission to provide for the lives of seniors living in the Matanuska Susitna Valley and to enable them to live as independently as possible for as long as possible. Contact WASI’s main office at 907-2068800 or visit www.wasillaseniors.com.

weeks. By 1944 the Women’s Reserve had grown from 4 women to nearly 15,000 and the WRs held more than 200 different assignments.

The Alaska Veterans Museum is pleased to announce a new exhibit telling the story of one of the early female Marines, Marcella Greene. Come enjoy this story at 411 W 4th Ave, Suite 2-A (the yellow Sunshine Plaza). We are open M-Sa 10 Am to 5 PM.

COMMUNITY

Last Frontier BBQ Throwdown: Alaska State BBQ Championship

Contributed by John Mann

Alaska State BBQ Championship

Join Us for the Ultimate BBQ Showdown in Eagle River, AK!

Mark your calendars for July 26-27, 2024, as Eagle River, Alaska, becomes the epicenter of barbecue excellence with the “Last Frontier BBQ Throwdown.” This premier event promises to be a sizzling celebration of culinary prowess, community spirit, and mouthwatering flavors.

Event Highlights

SCA Steak Cookoff & Taco Ancillary -

Friday, July 26

The festivities kick off on Friday with the highly anticipated Steak Cookoff Association (SCA) steak cookoff. Grill masters from near and far will compete to showcase their steak-cooking skills, vying for top honors and bragging rights. Adding a delicious twist, there’s also a taco ancillary competition, offering participants the chance to demonstrate their versatility and creativity with everyone’s favorite handheld delight.

Master Series BBQ Contest - Saturday, July 27

Saturday is dedicated to the serious BBQ aficionados with the Master Series BBQ Contest, sanctioned by the prestigious Kansas City BBQ Society (KCBS). This competition attracts some of the best pitmasters in the nation, all eager to impress the judges with their smoked, grilled, and barbecued masterpieces. Whether you’re a competitor or a spectator, the aromas and flavors will make it an unforgettable experience.

State Youth BBQ ChampionshipReindeer Sausage

Inspiring the next generation of barbecue enthusiasts, the State Youth BBQ Championship will feature young chefs cooking up delectable reindeer sausage. This unique competition is a testament to Alaska’s rich culinary heritage and a platform for young talents to shine.

SCA Steak Cookoff and Taco Ancillary

: Sign up online at [steakcookoffs.com]

- **KCBS Master Series BBQ Contest**: Register through [AKBBQ.org]

The Last Frontier BBQ Throwdown is more than just a competition; it’s a fundraiser for AK BBQ INC., a nonprofit organization

dedicated to teaching youth the art of BBQ, grilling, and smoking meats. Your participation and contributions help foster a love for culinary arts among the younger generation.

Sponsorship is crucial to the success of this event, and there are multiple ways to get involved. Local businesses and individuals are encouraged to support this community-driven event. For sponsorship inquiries, please call 907-535-1284 or email admin@akbbq.org.

- Witness top-tier BBQ competitions

- Support a nonprofit that empowers youth - Enjoy delicious food and community festivities

- Experience the vibrant culture of Eagle River, AK

Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of the Last Frontier BBQ Throwdown! Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster, a BBQ enthusiast, or a supporter of youth programs, this event promises to be a highlight of the summer. For more information, visit the event websites and stay tuned for updates. See you in Eagle River for a smokin’ good time!

Valley Charities Mat-Su Reentry Program Provides a Path to Success

Contributed by Randi Perlman

Our pathway through life can take many twists and turns along the way. Poor decisions can sometimes create serious problems and can lead to prison time for some Mat-Su residents. The focus and goal of the Valley Charities MatSu Reentry Program is to help these individuals integrate successfully back into the community by setting them up for success with skills to contribute to society in a positive way. Successful reentry has been noted across the country in reducing crime and imprison rates.

The Mat-Su Reentry Coalition (MSRC) is a collaboration of individuals, community stakeholders, public and nonprofit agencies, faith-based and business partners who are united and committed to reducing recidivism among returning citizens to the Mat-Su community. MSRE works on high-end problems, aiming to remove barriers to reentrance for those citizens who are seeking a new start after incarceration. The Coalition is geared toward a very specific target population which is individuals of medium to high risk to re-offend and recidivate to prison. Age can range anywhere from eighteen to ninety. The ultimate goal is to help the individual become stable and efficient on their own. Funding comes in the form of grants through Alaska Mental Health Trust as well as Mat-Su Health Foundation.

Barbara Mongar is the Coalition Coordinator, working closely with partner agencies as a 10-member Steering Team that meets at least monthly. The organizations that make up the Steering Committee are: True North Recovery, Goose Creek Correctional Facility, Palmer Probation Office, Alaska Veterans Assistance, Mat-Su Job Center, Access Alaska, Mat-Su Housing & Homelessness Coalition, Knik Tribe, Mat-Su Health Services, and Set Free Alaska. Other organizations that are part of the coalition include: Alaska Legal Services, Mat-Su Public Health Services, AK Dept. of Corrections, Connect Mat-Su, Victim Advocacy, AK Div. of Vocational Rehabilitation, Chickaloon Tribe, and Alaska Fam-

ily Services. They are currently planning the annual Reentry Summit that provides free training for anyone interested in learning more about the reentry program. At the Summit, ‘Building Bridges to Success’, several knowledgeable speakers will impart valuable information that can help with the reentry process, such as employment, housing, mental health and more. This year’s Reentry Summit is funded by the Mat-Su Health Foundation and will be held at the Menard Center in Wasilla from 9:00am to 3:30pm on September 5 & 6. The public is invited to this free event and lunch is included! Registration information will be forthcoming and seating is limited. For more information on the Summit, contact Mongar at 907-414-4077 or barbara. mongar@valleycharities.org.

Cindy Yeager is a Case Manager for the Mat-Su Reentry Program, along with Brian Galloway. Galloway executes the State of Alaska (SOA) reentry program while Yeager is Coordinator and Case Manager for the Second Chance Program and works closely with fellow Second Chance Case Manager, April Cheek. Yeager makes contact with potential candidates looking for services after release from prison, verifies their eligibility, and gets them set up through a phone conversation that helps establish their specific needs and release plans. Yeager can assist with the services they may need to connect with, such as transitional living, job placement resources, or a driver’s license. The program will not cover the cost of things such as tuition, attorney fees, fines, restitution or taxes, however anything that will assist the client’s stability in reentry through connection to the right agency or resource can be accomplished. In the 4 years Yeager has been involved with this program, it has grown exponentially. The true scope of the program is to help promote integration into the community and for individuals to be successful in their own right, which looks different for everyone, and to not be dependent on public assistance or substance use.

The Reentry Program often sees a spike in reentrance and need in the fall as temperatures start to drop, and conversely a large number of prison releases tends to happen in the spring. Approximately 500 reentrants are released each year from 4 facilities in the area: Goose Creek Correctional Center, Palmer Correctional Center, Pt. MacKenzie Correctional Farm, and Mat-Su Pretrial. The recidivism rate for Alaska right now is 60%. This means that of the 5,000 or so incarcerated persons across the State of Alaska, 60% will return to prison within 3 years. However, when offenders receive the help they need through a reentry program, that rate drops significantly. Lower recidivism rates equate to less crime and a safer community. Mental health and substance use issues often go hand-in-hand in many cases and can lead to criminal charges.

Valley Charities’ 2 case management programs, Second Chance and Community-Base to Reentry, both run for 6 months. The 4-person team of Mongar, Galloway, Yeager, and Cheek runs the Reentry Program for the entire Mat-Su Borough, an area the size of West Virginia. Both Mongar and Yeager point to their many partnerships in the Valley as their biggest strength. The coalition agencies all work together to provide, or find, the resources needed to help a reentrant find a pathway to success.

Valley Charities, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing life-changing programs and opportunities to Valley residents. VCI has been quietly serving the Mat-Su Borough for over 60 years. Through their Housing Assistance Partnership Program, Mat-Su Reentry Program, Medical Equipment Lending Program, and turn-A-leaf Thrift Store, alongside many strong community partnerships, VCI serves the needs of Valley residents and helps them thrive. These compassionate programs encompass and fulfill VCI’s vision to make the Mat-Su Valley a healthier and happier place to reside for everyone. For more information, visit www.valleycharities.org or call 907-376-5740.

Valley Charities Housing Assistance Program Helps in Hard Times

Contributed by Randi Perlman

The twists and turns of everyday life can sometimes take a toll on families and individuals residing in the Mat-Su Valley, unexpectedly and through no fault of their own. Just paying the bills to keep utilities on and prevent eviction can become a serious challenge at times. Are you aware of a program right here in the Valley that can provide financial housing assistance during those low times?

Since 2012, the primary purpose of Valley Charities, Inc. (VCI’s) Housing Assistance Program (HAP) has been to help folks remain in housing, in other words, to prevent homelessness. That led to an awareness of grants that would help people re-enter from situations such as incarceration, as well as grants to help families transition slowly into sustainable, independent housing arrangements.

VCI provides financial/rent assistance to individuals and families that meet the required grant criteria. Details on eligibility can be found on the VCI website (www.valleycharities.org) or by calling 907-354-4660. A short voice message from the caller briefly explaining their basic need, for example eviction prevention, behind on utility bills or rent payments, or something else, is then screened by VCI’s case worker. Most grants funnel in from the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC), so income requirements are part of the screening process. Applicants at 30% of the median household income (which is considered below the poverty level), depending on how many people are in the family, may then be eligible for assistance with their utility bills, first month’s rent getting into a new home, etc.

HAP does NOT provide housing. The program DOES provide financial assistance to help folks get over the immediate ‘bump in the road’ and get back on a sustainable path on their own. The HAP case manager is a strong information resource and referral advocate for all sorts of helpful governmental programs and partnerships and can point folks in the right direction for help with a wide range of needs.

VCI has established a great relationship with AHFC over time by demonstrating its ability to provide funding responsibly, which has put VCI in a position to take on additional grants and projects, even assisting people statewide. As another offshoot of the program, VCI began helping with prisoner re-entry. The history and importance of VCI’s Re-Entry Assistance Program is closely tied to HAP and will be the topic of a future article in this publication.

Adam Pollock is VCI’s case manager for HAP. He has been on board for many years and has a wealth of knowledge and experience to help answer any questions applicants may have. Pollock has worked hard over the years to streamline the process of applying for assistance with three main concepts: Partnering with six other nonprofit agencies in the MatSu, each with different specialties, services, and expertise, and in different locations, in order to cover residents across the entire Valley, from Chickaloon and Sutton on one end through Trapper Creek on the other. These partner agencies are Family Promise Mat-Su, Blood & Fire Ministries, Daybreak, Inc., Salvation Army, Alaska Family Services, and MY House.

Initial screenings to determine eligibility are done over the phone, avoiding the necessity of an extra trip to complete preliminary paperwork. When eligibility has been confirmed via phone, an in-person appointment can be made with full knowledge of additional documents needed. This procedure achieves greater convenience and efficiency

for all involved.

Application completion is done in-person at the office of the participating agency, where experienced case workers provide individualized help with appropriate terminology on the required forms.

Over the years, Dave Rose (former Mat-Su Coalition on Housing and Homelessness Coordinator) and Adam Pollock (an army Veteran) have established an excellent relationship with local property managers and landlords, a critical piece of the puzzle in the success of this program. It brings forth an element of trust, cooperation and communication needed to work through the details of each individual circumstance and situation.

If the applicant does not qualify for the program, the folks at HAP do all they can to assist in problem-solving or identifying other agencies and resources that may be beneficial to the client’s specific needs, and which they may not even be aware of. In addition to the six specific agencies HAP formally partners with mentioned above, other informal program partners include Veterans programs, public assistance, senior programs, churches, and many others. This enables what is known as a ‘warm handoff’, where one agency can see a need they may not be able to fill but can refer a client to a partner agency that can do so.

HAP’s approach has been to disburse the funding in a manner that allows them to help as many people as possible. The program is always aware of how much is available to make it through the next grant cycle, and VCI meets with its six partner agencies on a monthly basis to compare notes on how the program is going. The amount of financial assistance provided is regularly assessed and adjusted to ensure adequate funds are on hand.

Valley Charities, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing life-changing programs and opportunities to Valley residents. VCI has been quietly serving the Mat-Su Borough for over 60 years. Through their Housing Assistance Program, Mat-Su Reentry Program, Medical Equipment Lending Program, and turn-A-leaf Thrift Store, alongside many strong community partnerships, VCI serves the needs of Valley residents and helps them thrive. These compassionate programs encompass and fulfill VCI’s vision to make the Mat-Su Valley a healthier and happier place to reside for everyone. For more information, visit www.valleycharities. org or call 907-376-5740.

Amplify Your Love at Wellness Weekend 2024

Contributed by Avalon Starling

Get ready, Alaska, to amplify your love and immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience at Wellness Weekend 2024! This three-day healing arts festival is set to take place from August 2nd to 4th in Sutton, Alaska, at a private retreat venue and campground.

Did you know that August is National Wellness Month?

Wellness Weekend 2024 promises to be a rejuvenating escape, offering a perfect blend of music, wellness activities, and community spirit. With tickets now on sale, there’s no better time to secure your spot for this transformative event. Wellness Weekend 2024 offers a diverse array of experiences to enhance your well-being: Music and Movement: Enjoy over 5 hours of live music each day of the festival, including ecstatic dance sessions under the stars, sound baths by the lake, and drum circles by the bonfire.

Healing Experiences: Participate in plant medicine ceremonies and meditation classes.

Animal Therapy and Outdoor Adventures: Spend time with our animal friends and explore new nature trails. Cacao Bar: This year, we will have a beverage station to try different blends of delicious ceremonial cacao.

Family Day on Sunday: Join us on Sunday for Family Day, where kids under 18 get in free with a day pass! We have a full schedule of family-friendly fun, including youthful yoga, kids drum circle, comedy classes, scavenger hunt, painting classes, petting zoo, and more family-friendly activities. Headliner Announcement: Amplify Your Love

We are ecstatic to announce that the legendary John Stuart, performing under his stage name Amplify Your Love, will be headlining Wellness Weekend 2024. This is Amplify

Your Love’s first-ever performance in Alaska, and it’s set to be a night to remember! As a sound alchemist, DJ, producer, and MC, John Stuart has been mesmerizing audiences for over 30 years with his unique blend of hip-hop, spoken word, and genre-bending beats. His music is a journey through sound, igniting personal expression, oneness, freedom, and love. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience Amplify Your Love’s vibrational medicine live on Saturday, August 3rd. See you on the dance floor!

Here are some highlights of the artist lineup and schedule: Friday, August 2nd: Drum Circle Ceremony with fire dancers hosted by Sound Space

Pepper Kit Band

Ecstatic Dance with Heidi Weiland

Saturday, August 3rd:

Tamara Zenobia

• Scott Lewis

Ecstatic Dance with Amplify Your Love

Sunday, August 4th:

• 3000-21

Ecstatic Dance with DJ Gaia

More local talent

Enhance your wellness journey with the Wellness Weekend

VIP Retreat. This all-inclusive package offers: Lodging and VIP Lounge Access

• Gourmet meals prepared by our private chef

Front-row seats to all music performances

• Exclusive wellness workshops Plant medicine ceremonies facilitated by professional ceremonial healers

• Private healing sessions and one-on-one opportunities with wellness experts

We have various ticket options to suit your needs: Day Pass, Campground Pass, Music Pass Festival Pass: Includes day classes, evening concerts, and lodging Wellness Weekend VIP Retreat

Take advantage of our limited-time

Learn the Style That Made Bruce Lee Famous: Wing Chun

Contributed by Kendall Stewart

Have you ever wanted to learn Kung Fu? Are you a Bruce Lee fan? Wing Chun Alaska is bringing Bruce Lee’s original style to Alaska! Learn from Master Philip Redmond the sacred art of Wing Chun Kung Fu. Master Philip Redmond is a closed-door disciple of Grandmaster William Cheung, Bruce Lee’s beloved friend, trainer, and Kung Fu senior. Don’t miss your opportunity to learn the Kung Fu that made Bruce Lee famous.

Here’s the true story of how Bruce Lee became a martial artist. Most people don’t know, but Bruce Lee was a childhood actor. When he was young, he played the bully in a famous TV show in China. When he went to school, he used to get beat up by the other students, and his parents hired a kid bodyguard to watch after him. The kid bodyguard’s name was William Cheung. Bruce Lee was impressed with William Cheung’s Kung Fu and asked to meet the master. William Cheung introduced Bruce Lee to his first teacher, Yip Man. Bruce Lee excelled, and one defining part of his training was that he wanted to practice over and over again before moving on to the next phase, which was very dynamic and caused him to be the great martial artist he was.

Brief History of Wing Chun:

Five of China’s grandmasters met to discuss the merits of each of the various forms of Kung Fu in order to develop a form with a shorter learning period. By choosing the most efficient techniques from each style, they developed training programs that would develop an efficient martial artist in 5 to 7 years, one-third the original time. However, before this new form could be put into practice, the Shaolin Temple was raided and burned by the Manchurians. Ng Mui, a nun, was the only survivor of the original five grandmasters. She passed her knowledge onto a young orphan girl whom she named Wing Chun. The name means “Praise Spring,” representing “hope for the future.” An emperor asked for the young girl’s hand in marriage, but the young girl challenged him to a duel. If she won, she would not have to marry him. The nun taught her Wing Chun, and she defeated the emperor.

Grandmaster Cheung went on to become one of the top teachers and trainers in the world, and he is currently based out of Australia. Grandmaster Cheung held a Kung Fu seminar in 1981, and my teacher, who taught a different style of Wing Chun, left his position to become Cheung’s student and has been training and teaching ever since. I had the opportunity to meet Grandmaster Cheung

Big Dipper Homemade Ice Cream Celebrates 3 Year Anniversary

Liberty, Liberally

Volume IV - Issue VI

Make A Scene Media A Community Art Project

What if you could make your art by facilitating others to express themselves? Isn’t that a community art project?

For me, as the creator of Make A Scene media, that’s what it is. I see the company, everything we do, as a means to that end: to make other people make themselves known.

So my art is truly art, in that it becomes a practical and profitable endeavor. This is not the goal, but it is a measure of success. If making more people aware of more people, and thereby building community, is the goal of the art, then success for this community art project can be measured by the viability of this company.

The corporate media has disconnected itself from the will of the people. It is the will of corporate persons. But by framing themselves as the fourth estate, as some essential element of our system, they fool the masses into complacency. My art is getting them to remember that they are the inheritors of freedom of press. As individuals, we all have freedom of press, an overarching and all encompassing right to express ourselves, in person and via mass communication technology like the printing press.

My company’s growth therefore is how my art is observed. The more we create a collective expression of the people,

through print, radio, and other media, the more we counter the corporate narrative that is otherwise sustained by our lack of a point of comparison.

I’m not talking about facts and truth, I’m talking about an accurate account of the will of the people. It’s not about republican or democrat dichotomies, either. It’s about everything we’re about. Free expression is as much art as anything else. Politics are downstream from art, but art is from the fountainhead of the individual.

We empower the individual through Make A Scene Media, The People’s Paper, 95.5 The Pass, and many other efforts. We appear at first to be similar to any other media company or ad agency, but we’re more. We have a commercial radio station and a monthly publication, and that’s just part of what makes us different. But it’s our mission that makes the difference. Everything we do, the events, the marketing services, the publication written by whoever, the radio playing local music and playing phone message announcements, it all has the same, simple thing in common.

We help people express themselves, for the benefit of the people. Community is the product of communication. Healthy communication happens when everyone feels heard. My art is making a way for that to occur.

Investigative Journalism Unleashed at The People’s Paper

It’s a little difficult to keep explaining the same thing to people. I’ve been doing this for many years, and I know that I’ve made myself clear to a certain number of people, but when dealing with the public, it’s hard to tell sometimes.

The People’s Paper, even in its name, is clearly written by local people. So that means that we have never hired or otherwise had a reporter on staff. We don’t employ journalists, and never have. Instead, we facilitate everyone’s freedom of the press, by creating a platform in print that is free to access.

While we don’t employ journalists, we give everyone the ability to use their right to free press and mass communications, no questions asked. That’s the whole point, to allow the public to express themselves with the same magnification of mass media that is usually reserved for the so-called professionals. Professionals profess, but that doesn’t mean they are qualified. They profess to be, but we will see.

Many times people approach The People’s Paper wanting the mythical champion, the investigative journalist, to blow the lid off some offending something. We have to tell them, time and again, that we don’t employ paid journalists, and that’s not what we do.

However, most investigative journalists in history have depended heavily upon their own access to respected mediums, like New York Times, or some other corporate outlet. What we do, instead, is to give that access freely to whoever would make use of it, and for whatever purpose they choose. From poetry to politics, we just reflect what the people publish. We don’t make the decision what goes into print, the people do, by sending it to be included.

Most media outlets would never give up control of the narrative like that, because historically it has lended to them this mythical status and respect... even fear. So giving that power to everyday, average people is a truly disruptive thing to do.

ABOUT: “Joshua Fryfogle, the owner of The People’s Paper, Make A Scene Magazine, and Liberty, Liberally, is heavily involved in the local community. In addition to creating a monthly paper that prints what community members submit, he also owns 95.5 The Pass, KNLT, one of the only stations in the nation to play local music in regular rotation! Josh is a lifelong singer/songwriter, and serves as booking agent and sound engineer for countless other Alaskan musicians.”

We’ve gotten a surprising number of donations from community members at The People’s Paper and Make A Scene Magazine over the years, and recently it’s increased with the publication of Liberty, Liberally.

We’ve also received many requests for subscription services, requests to mail Liberty, Liberally, and our other publications to people near and far...

So we thought, why not make it easier to donate, and get something in return, too? With a minimum $8 per

month donation, you’ll receive a copy of each publication - and even special publications and other things that might fit in a Manila envelope!

Thanks so much for your words of encouragement and financial support over the years. We take your trust very seriously, as we steward content from you and your neighbors onto the printed page. It’s an American tradition which we are blessed to uphold.

More info available at: www.LibertyLiberally.com

Self-Governance Through Self-Expression

June 7 2024

Whole concept of free expression as defined and guaranteed by the constitution of the United States, is meant to gather information from the ground up, in order to inform the public to their own interests. The First Amendment creates a scenario where everyone has a legal right to express themselves and their concerns, and everyone else has a right to hear them and decide whether or not they agree with them. This is a fundamental function of free speech and free press, in that it is the mechanism for measuring the will of the people.

Corporate media as it has evolved into modernity has become the antithesis of that purpose.

Large media corporations, which have eaten up almost all of the smaller media brands, have created a system that is very powerful. It’s power is in the power of suggestion. It has the ability to suggest anything, and the corporate media sell that power to the highest bitter. The corporate advertiser.

Neither the corporate advertiser nor the corporate media that they support are anything like a human individual. The opposite of a human individual, merely a legal person.

The rights of free expression, like speech and freedom of the printing press, were guaranteed to the individual. The human individual.

“Oftentimes we think that we lack common ground with certain people. Republicans and Democrats, the religious and the atheist, etc... but the truth is that we do have common ground with each other if we live in the same community. We have literal common ground between us. We are neighbors.”

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” - Frederick Douglas

“Employ your time in improving yourself by other men’s writings so that you shall come easily by what others have labored hard for.” - Socrates

“You don’t have to burn books to destroy a culture. Just get people to stop reading them.” - Ray Bradbury

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” - Dr. Seuss

“Reading brings us unknown friends” - Honoré de Balzac

“The person who deserves most pity is a lonesome one on a rainy day who doesn’t know how to read.” - Benjamin Franklin

“My alma mater was books, a good library... I could spend the rest of my life reading, just satisfying my curiosity.” - Malcolm X

“Man reading should be man intensely alive. The book should be a ball of light in one’s hand.” - Ezra Pound

“The man who does not read ... is no better than the man who can’t.” - Mark Twain

“To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.” - Victor Hugo

“Show me a family of readers, and I will show you the people who move the world.” - Napoléon Bonaparte

“It is what you read when you don't have to that determines what you will be when you can't help it.” - Oscar Wilde

“Etymology” et·y·mol·o·gy /ˌedəˈmäləjē/

If you don’t know what this word means, you probably don’t know what most words mean.

“Only The Military Should Have Guns”

April 24 2018

After years of publishing this paper, I’ve come to a conclusion. The true intent of the second amendment must be that only the military should have guns. Before you start melting like a snowflake, let me clarify.

The second amendment clearly says that the right of the People shall not be infringed. But c’mon, let it go, who has time for that? Are you really qualified to own a weapon?

Does that upset you? Do you greatly value your gun rights? Don’t worry, I’m patronizing your patriotic sensibilities. I’m trying to piss you off.

Because that’s how people seem to think about the first amendment.

They think that religion is for 501c3 NonProfit Organizations, and the freedom of the Press belongs to ‘the media’, whatever that means...

Back to guns.

Whenever they hear some left-leaning person ranting about guns, right-leaning people suddenly become constitutional scholars. They start talking about the grammar and punctuation of the second amendment, yelling “Come and take ‘em!”, while they pontificate about the true intent of the framers of the constitution. They get all indignant.

Well, that’s how I feel about the first amendment. If we really cared about the second amendment, we would care about the first amendment even more. Right-leaning activists feel like they are defending their gun rights, but really they’re defending a written guarantee about gun rights.

“The pen is mightier than the sword.”

– Edward Bulwer-Lytton

Your right to freedom of the Press is no less powerful than your right to own a firearm. Your right to keep and bear arms is not nearly as effective at protecting your freedom as your right to freedom of the press.

But we’ve let “the media” just have it; corporations monopolize the public discourse, while we become mere consumers of whatever we are told.

I’ve been publishing The People’s Paper for 11 years this month (first published in The People’s Paper in May of 2018). Every article in it is written by real people, of their own free will and accord, expressing their thoughts - which is their right! And words are weapons, let me tell ya...

But conservatives are not in the media, hardly at all (this had changed a lot since the original 2018 publication of this essay). They talk a good game, but when it’s time to use their freedom of the press, they would rather blame “the media” for not telling their side of the story. Meanwhile, the left leaning people populate the media companies by a huge margin. Huge. But only for money. And average, unpaid liberal voices are

silent, too. Perhaps they feel overrepresented in the media, so they don’t bother. I know a lot of liberal people who have dissenting opinions, but they’re largely silent as well. Only the mainstream left-wing voices are allowed in the mainstream channels. But that’s another article, that I will write later.

I tell people all the time, when they ask me to write something for them, “You should write it yourself, that’s what the paper is for.” I explain that The People’s Paper doesn’t employ any paid writers, and that it is entirely a service for local people to make use of their first amendment guarantees.

They often say something like, “Oh... I’m not a writer...”

I always think, ‘Didn’t you get a public education, for free? How did you go to twelve years of school, and not feel confident in writing an essay?’

Imagine if I was talking about guns and self-defense. Would you say, “Oh, I’m not a shooter...” and expect some ‘professional shooter’ to handle all the guns? Would you not want to learn to shoot? To learn how to handle a firearm? To aim properly? Wouldn’t you keep your firearm well-oiled and in working order? I once had a patriotic, survivalist type fellow ask me to write about his upcoming survivalist training camp event. He told me “I don’t have time for that”, when I told him to use my online submission form. He had time to do survivalist training for the end of the freaking world, but not to string a few words together about his survivalist training camp. It’s ridiculous.

The freedom of the press does not belong to the media. It belongs to the People, just like every other right belongs to the individual. It belongs to everyone. It belongs to you, and me, and the people with whom we disagree. Whether they are conservative, libertarian, liberal, communist, whatever. We all have a right to write.

I started The People’s Paper to create a place for real people to practice their aim - think of it as a shooting range of ideas. It’s a place for you to make your mark, and to practice your mental marksmanship.

There is no weapon more powerful than your freedom of the Press. Just consider how the media can shape the conversation, and we all repeat it, like parrots. They tell us what to think, all the time. And that shouldn’t bother you. It should empower you!

You, too, have that ability!

And this publication has been providing the pages for your paragraphs for 11 years (now 17 years in 2024). I am, as always, inviting you to use your first amendment rights. Even if you miss the mark, you still took a shot at it.

You could even write about the second amendment, using your first amendment! That is, after all, what the framers did.

“When the talking stops, the shooting starts.” – Unknown

ACCESSIBILITY & MOBILITY

101 Mobility ........ 521-7101

Durable Medical Equipment

Lending Program ........ 907-521-1908

ANTIQUES & VINTAGE

The Estate Sale ........ 357-7050

The Winter’s Cache ....... 745-3911

APPAREL & CLOTHING

All Seasons Clothing Co. ........ 357-0123

ART & CRAFTS

The Gallery ........ 745-1420

AUTO REPAIR

Fairview Loop Automotive .. 887-6137

BOOKSTORE

Black Birch Books ...... 373-2677

Fireside Books ........ 745-2665

CANNABIS RETAILER

Matanuska Cannabis Co. ...... 745-4211

COFFEE & CAFÉ

Alaska Artisan Coffee ........ 745-5543

Gathering Grounds Cafe ........ 376-4404

Vagabond Blues……..745-2233

EDUCATION

Gille Learning Center ..... 357-1100

Learning Essentials ........ 357-3990

EPOXY SUPPLY & INSTALL

Alaska Resin Supply ........ 671-9900

FOOTWEAR

Northern Comfort Shoes ........ 376-5403

HOME DÉCOR

Peak Boutique ........ 746-3320

The Wagon Wheel ........ 671-0189

MUSIC LESSONS

Wood & Wire Guitars .... 745-7457

ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS www.gunsalaska.com

PRINT SERVICES

L&B Color Printing ........ 376-2081

REPAIR & RESTORATION

Alaska Resin Supply ........ 671-9900

Comtronics ........ 373-2669

S&S Drilling ...... 746-0225

Steve’s Toyostove Repair ..... 376-9276

The Powdercoat Shop .... 841-1300

Wood & Wire Guitars .... 745-7457

RESTAURANTS

Locals Pub & Pizzaria ........ 357-3100

SNOW REMOVAL SERVICES

Mr. Plow ........ 521-2376

SPECIALTY GIFTS

Alaska Midnite Scents ........ 357-7364

Non-Essentials ........ 745-2258

The Wagon Wheel ........ 671-0189

TAXI & TRANSPORTATION

Mr. Taxi ........ 707-6011

THRIFT SHOPS

Steam Driven Boutique ........ 376-4404

Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Stores ........ 376-5708

TOYS

Just Imagine Toys ........ 357-1543

Learning Essentials .......... 357-3990

POLITICS & OPINION

A Summary Review of Local Government, Citizenship and American Republicanism

EagleExit Part Two

Contributed by Forrest A. Nabors, PhD EagleExit, Eagle River, Alaska

What was the secret of New England republicanism? In short, the answer is, the faith of the people of New England, from which all their institutions were formed.

In Genesis 22:18 God promises Abraham that “in your seed all the nations shall be blessed,” and in Galatians 3:28 the apostle says, “there is neither Jew nor Greek, nor male nor female nor bond nor free, but ye are all one in Jesus Christ.” Both the Old and New Testament demonstrate that in God’s eyes all mankind is equal. The Hebrews were a special people because they were the bearers of this gospel, that the Babylonians no less than the Hebrews were dear to God. In its secular version, this principle could be rewritten, “all men are created equal.” This principle was advanced in New England government 150 years before Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence and before John Locke was born.

The Catholic Church had carried this teaching forward from its founding. Saint Augustine, Pope Saint Gregory the Great, Saint Thomas Aquinas all advanced the idea that all men are created equal. The priests reformed rulers. We can find in old European archives plenty of evidence of scolding and threatening priests, reminding monarchs that they are servants of the people, not wolves. By the late Middle Ages the church forced the European monarchs to abolish slavery and softened the conduct of rulers.

Renewed zeal drove the reformers to purify the religion of Christendom, not only in the practice of their religion, but in every aspect of their lives, their social and political lives included. The protestant sects that dissented from the Church of England were such as these reformers, and the early settlers of New England came from those sects.

Their pastors observed in the Bible that the only form of government that God ever ordained was a republican form of government, administered by judges under law. Only with reluctance and after a stern warning did God allow the Hebrews to abandon that form and anoint their first king, Saul. That God preferred republican government made sense to these protestants, because if all are equal, as the Bible maintains, then no government but government of and by equals was preferred by God. This became the basis of the organization of their churches. Equal elders ruled the congregations and the pastors and ministers were chosen by them. This also became the basis of their political organizations. As a result, from their earliest settlement, the people of New England ruled their churches and in government they ruled themselves as coequals. They made their own laws that they lived under. Town halls were built where coequal citizens could debate all political questions. They elected their officers of government, whom they deemed to be servants of the public, just as pastors and ministers were servants of their congregations.

Because they perceived from their studies of the Bible, that only by each reading the Bible could each hope for salvation and learn how to live a pious life, the instruction of the young was a religious duty. Education, therefore, grew out from New England households and was administered by parents, concerned that their young become literate at the earliest possible age. Families

working together, not government, established schoolhouses. By the time of the American Revolution, New England boasted of the highest literacy rate in the world. The incidental result of this was elevated public intelligence and in New England, the highest incidence of newspapers in the world.

The principle of natural equality by which they organized their way of life and mode of governing themselves, also structured how they organized themselves for war and law enforcement. They did not form standing armies or professional police forces, the latter of which is a relatively new kind of law enforcement in the United States. The people of New England depended on themselves. War and law enforcement was a community affair, conducted by citizens who regularly trained in militia companies and kept their own arms.

Town halls, schoolhouses, mustering grounds and churches were the essential props of New England self-government. Their republicanism was impossible without their faith. Their faith inculcated the principle that was the bedrock of their social and political lives, the principle of natural equality, that all had a right to life and liberty. Their faith also inculcated the virtue of charity. This virtue, peculiar to Christianity, prevented the rise of unjust factions, which had always been the bane of prior republics. All other prior republics had been small, and all had been destroyed from within by one unjust faction achieving a majority then oppressing their fellow citizens. But charity encouraged kindness and justice and discouraged haughtiness and vengeance and injustice. While the New England communities were small, charity steadied them, preserved justice and public tranquility. Charity also obviated the need for “safety nets” managed by government. Communities took care of each other and their own.

Virginia was the largest and most influential colony southward of the New England colonies. George Washington, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson among other famous Virginians of the revolutionary period all are on record acknowledging New England republicanism, expressing their admiration for it, and attempting to reform their state on the New England model. Many statesmen southward requested assistance from John Adams of Massachusetts, the acknowledged savant of republicanism, in writing their constitutions and learning how to model their states after the New England states.

New England influenced the future political development of the United States in another way, by sending her offspring to new territories, who brought their way of life and institutions with them. At their foundation, many territories and new states reproduced the institutions found in New England.

Finally, in 1787 the Federal Convention drafted the Constitution under which we live today. That constitution was modeled after the constitution John Adams wrote for the state of Massachusetts in 1780. Both constitutions were written for a free people and required them to depend on themselves for their livelihoods and to govern themselves. After ratification, the size of the federal government remained slight for more than one hundred and fifty years, yet the country was ambitious, energetic and strong because the people were accustomed to rely on their own virtue to rise in life, rising on the basis of merit, not preferment. New England republicanism had thus become American republicanism.

The Eaglexit Board would like to thank Forrest Nabors for his support and efforts. This is the first of a four-part series. Please consider joining the cause and keeping up on our progress at Eaglexit.com. See our website for all contact information.

Lessons On Tyranny

Contributed by Nan Potts

There was a time when “everyone” knew the meaning of tyranny. By definition (Webster’s College Dictionary), it is — (noun), the arbitrary or unrestrained exercise of power; despotic abuse of authority. To others, an oppressive or unjust government and more so, undue harshness or severity. Yet at one time not too long ago, tyranny was known as the abuse of power.

Currently, this word is being used frequently, usually describing opposing political parties. It seems everyone these days have varying views of power and its use or abuse of it. Why? If history teaches, and it can if one pays attention to it, there are lessons we can take away and use to provide for a better world.

The Problem? History of tyranny has not been taught. On average, it takes two generations before a history fades into the ages, unless it is taught. A few years ago, I had an elementary teacher relate to me how history isn’t taught until high school because the information was not pertinent to modern times. Really?

This leads me to a pocket chapbook I discovered while perusing a “Free Books” bookcase, On Tyranny (Twenty Lessons From The Twentieth Century) by Timothy Snyder, 2017. What caught my eye was his prologue, History and Tyranny. He opens with, “History does not repeat, but it does instruct. As the Founding Fathers debated our Constitution, they took instruction from the history they knew. Concerned that the democratic republic they envisioned would collapse, they contemplated the descent of ancient democracies and republics into oligarchy and empire. As they knew, Aristotle warned that inequality brought instability, while Plato believed the demagogues exploited free speech to install themselves as tyrants. Founding a democratic republic upon law and establishing a system of checks and balances, the Founding Fathers sought to avoid the evil that they, like ancient philosophers, called tyranny.” This sparked my interest. I recall learning about these basic concepts, in much simpler terms, in the third grade.

I then turned to the Epilogue, History and Liberty, where Snyder began with quotes from Shakespeare’s drama, Hamlet. “ ‘Time is out of joint,’ says Hamlet, ‘O cursed spite, that ever I was born to set it right!’ ” Is our time out of joint? Have we forgotten history? If we have, are we neglecting it for another? Liberty and our U.S. history are certainly connected.

Thumbing back to where he listed his 21 lessons, which he encourages us to apply to our current events, I scanned the chapter headings (here are a few): Do not obey in advance, Defend Insti-

tutions, Beware of the one party state, Believe in truth, Investigate, Practice corporal politics, Learn from peers of other countries, Listen for dangerous words, Be a patriot, Contribute to good causes, and others. I was now hooked to look into these, so called, lessons, and read.

If you’ve read books on Antiracism, Socialism, Marxism, etc., you’ll note they have appeal to a certain audience. However, history has demonstrated these ideologies morph into something else — The oppressed look for a way to lift themselves out of their situation. An ideology will come along with “a” leader to promote it as the only way out. The people respond, rebel, change their system, install a new leader, start to change their social status (maybe), only to find themselves enslaved by their new leader(s). Over time, enough people get fed up with their situation, they rebel and the pattern can repeat. Why? Their ideologies oppose human nature and open pathways to corruption. Yet, corruption can be found anywhere unethical and powerful people take advantage of law and order, ending up with total control, tyranny, opposite of what was promised the people. Flawed ideologies. Breaking this cycle usually requires revolution, too, for a moral people with an ethical plan to regain liberties lost. Our American Revolution is proof. “There must be a positive Passion for the public good, the public Interest, Honor, Power, and Glory, established in the Minds of the People, or there can be no Republican Government, nor any real Liberty.” — Samuel Adams

Today, we see fascism and communism as responses to globalization. They perceived equalities and amplify the apparent inequalities of representative democratic governments attempting to address them. Both systems, racism and communism, reject reason and truth, rule in the name of will not justice, claim to be the voice of the people, or attempt to guide a society by claiming supposed fixed laws in history. Both, false voices. Both, false truths.

My discoveries within this book? Simple proven truths from factual history. Practical ways to ward off tyranny, when applied with intended spirit. American ideals, values and traditions that brought the United States to greatness, per our U.S. Constitution. Perfection? Certainly not! Even the Founding Fathers could not provide that. Merely, a sincere intention towards minimal government and maximum liberty.

Try this quick read. You will yearn to study more of History and it may even assist your discernment of facts, from falsehoods. History may not repeat itself exactly, but is seems that if we haven’t learned out lessons. In the wisdom of Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens), “Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your the government when it deserves it.” — Mark Twain (Samual Clemens)

Washington’s Third Vision POLITICS & OPINION

Contributed by Larry Wood

During the deprivations of starvation, disease and misery at Valley Forge during the Great American Revolution, George Washington had three visions of this country’s future. The first covered the Great American Revolution and the Second the then future Civil War. The Third, is what concerns, as I believe that is now being played out. George Washington’s Third Vision is harsh and draconian. It was revealed to Washington a vision of invasion, war, and deprivation with our towns and cities under attack from every direction. This war went on for years. Eventually, the war was won at great cost. My opinion is that the ground work for this attack was laid out by Obama and is being effected by the Biden Administration with its open borders and the attack upon our culture and Christianity.

Who are the invaders Washington saw in his Vision?

They are the millions of illegals who come by sea and by land up the Pan American Highway, and down from Canada or fly directly into the U.S. They are not stopped, the flow continues unabated without seeming restraint. They are the drug Cartel soldados and mules who carry drugs into the U.S. to kill our children. They are the tens of thousands of military age males who may be agent provocateurs and terrorists who slip into this country anonymously in the river of illegal migrants who want jobs. Since Biden took office, it is estimated that at least 15 million illegals have come across the southern border. Most are military age males from every region on earth. Too many have unknown motivations and affiliations that may be hostile to the U.S. Most just want to work, to earn money and to go back home. Biden violated his oath of office when he opened the borders by executive edict to a purposeful mass invasion by millions of illegals into this country without health, criminal, or political checks to insure that they are not a threat to this country and its people.

Worse, our treasure is being handed the invader in the form of money, housing, and medical benefits without accountability to be paid by the taxpayer that is denied even

Books Are Not The Enemy

Contributed by Nancy Racek

I, for one, like to make sense of the world around me. However, this attempt to ban books belies that. With all that’s going on in the world that’s a top priority for some? Really? The big question I have is “WHY”? I’ve been told the answers are things like race, gender identity, history and sex. These issues aren’t going to disappear by banning books. They are all a part who we are, have been and of the world in which we live. In my suspicious mind I hear, to paraphrase Shakespeare, “Methinks they do protest too much!” Is there something that goes on behind closed doors that might come out in some of these books? Is there a fear of some kind of exposure? Just what is it? Something is definitely amiss. The effort has become so desperate it’s eroded into name calling! I had an anti- book banning person who attended a meeting of some sort tell me they had been called a “pedophile”! That’s classy! Besides, wouldn’t a “pedophile” be in favor of book bans not against? Again, there’s a question about motive here! None of this passes the smell test! Whatever the motive the truth will come out!

There is a bit of irony associated with the attempt. Bans seldom work because they generate an interest in whatever is being banned. For example: I printed out the list of the 50+ books on the banned list and am trying to read them all! Some I had already read but most I had never heard of! I’m being enlightened! The sales of the listed books are a bonus to book sellers and authors! While I don’t object to people censoring their own book choices, I am opposed to trying to censor or ban what I, my family or others , choose to read! That’s treading on personal freedom and certainly won’t resolve any personal demons!

our veterans to encourage the uninterrupted flow of those who will destroy this Republic. The Biden Administration has enabled its treason through the artifice of administrative oversight through Executive Orders and by regulation. This strategy avoids the oversight of the Congress and the Judiciary. The underlying Cloward-Piven strategy is being served through the diminishment of law enforcement and the refusal to enforce laws in Democrat controlled cities, counties and states with the ensuing increase in violent crime. Michael Yon, a veteran combat journalist who has studied the migrant issue has been to the Darien Gap in Panama and has seen first hand the migrant camps run by NGOs and the U.N. What has him disturbed is that the alleged refugees from the Peoples Republic of China are in two distinct camps, separated from each other and other migrants. One camp has people with families, the other, is strictly military age males who do not talk to anyone, nor is anyone allowed into that camp.

Groups continually flow into and out of the camps and north to the U.S.

Hezbolla and other Islamic terrorist groups have training camps in the tri-border area of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. Their hard core Muslim acolytes and more drugs move through the tri-border area and then north to the U.S. It does not take much stretch of the imagination to believe that an insurgency is being funneled into the U.S.

Like Europe’s 2015 invasion by migration, military age male Muslims from the Middle East and elsewhere are being encouraged to join the invasion. Biden has plans to bring in 10s of thousands from Gaza alone.

Remember what Angelica Merkel said to the women of Germany after over 1,000 sexual assaults by Muslims against German women and girls in Cologne, Germany on Christmas Eve, 2015? To paraphrase, ‘Get used to it. This is the new Germany and rape is part of that reality.’

So, it shall be here. Read the Qur’an.

There is a reason that every Democrat controlled city, county and state are failing, and drug, homeless and crime ridden. It is by design, the incompetent are chosen to lead for a reason. Communist revolutions love anarchy.

We are living through Washington’s Third Vision.

The ride has just begun. This year’s vote will be the most important of your life.

SUMMER A UdM v Adventures SUMMER A UdM v Adventures

Event

Best Friends Animal Rescue Presents

Woofstock 2024

and finds loving forever homes for more than 500 dogs and puppies annually.

We’re excited to spend a fantastic evening filled with music, vendors, and food. Plus, your pups are invited to join us! We’ll be hosting silent auctions filled with spectacular items, mini-events for your entertainment, fresh food, cold drinks, and 3 live bands!

How you can help:

A donation of something spectacular for our auctions

• Purchase admission to the event

Become a vendor and sell your goods at the event ($100 per booth)

• Become an event sponsor

Submit your pledge for support here: bfarak.org/woofstock2024

• How your donation will be recognized: Your company name will be listed on the event Facebook page

• Your donations are likely tax deductible

It is our hope that you would consider supporting animals in need by choosing to participate in our event. For more information regarding sponsorship, admissions, donations, and other opportunities for this event, please contact our team at fundraising@bfarak.org. We are happy to pick up donations from your location or they can be mailed to PO Box 870601, Wasilla, AK 99687.

Alaska Animal Advocates: Cancer Can Be Beaten

Contributed by Angie Lewis Alaska Animal Advocates

A few months ago, I wrote a couple of articles about my 8.5-year-old Great Pyrenees Mix, Jerith, and the discovery that he had bladder cancer.

Very serious and late term. I learned that there was not much positive with this diagnosis. Luckily, we found an oncologist at Tier One Vet Clinic. So, we fostered a relationship with this doctor, who recommended cancer fighting medications and supplements to boost his already devasted body. This was also a major

cost for working on saving my big boy (167pounds). We had chemotherapy drugs in our arsenal, but not radiation, which was not available in Alaska.

After about six months or so, we learned that Jerith was now free of cancer. I was as shocked by this news as I was at first learning that he had cancer. I am still in shock, and I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop and learning that he still has some part of cancer remaining in his body.

We no longer give Jerith cancer medication, but we have continued giving him all the supplements that were recommended by his doctor. Jerith has to go back to the vet for rechecks to make sure that the cancer has not returned. Unfortunately, the oncologist that Jerith has been seeing has moved out of Alaska and as far as I know, there are no other oncologists in the area.

This has been a very expensive experience for us – thousands of dollars in fact. I don’t regret one dollar of what I have spent and will continue spending whatever cost arises. I am Jerith’s guardian and as such, will never put him on the back burner. I have been so fortunate to share my life and my heart with this sweet, gentle giant. So, when you are saying your prayers or focusing on the many needs in our community, please think of Jerith and hope for his continued good health. Thank you.

Angie Lewis President of Alaska Animal Advocates (907) 841-3173

PETS

Adopt Otis

Contributed by Linda von

Bose

Otis knows what it is like to be unwanted, live day-to-day injured, and on your own, not knowing if he would ever be free from pain. Cats, such as Otis, have conquered the worst and are still hoping for a second chance in life. He is polydactyl (extra toes) and has extra-long whiskers. At 2-3 years of age, Otis is very mellow and would make a great companion for other nice cats and dogs. Otis would really like to be adopted with his BFF, but could be interested in being homed with another friendly kitty.

Please call/text ALASKA’S FORGOTTEN FELINES at 907-632-4797 or to view all adoptable kitties and access pre-adoption forms, visit https://akforgottenfelines.wixsite.com/akforgottenfelines.

Adopt Jack

Contributed by Linda von Bose

Jack, special needs cat. Several words could describe a special needs cat, but none are more appropriate than the word “resilient.” A cat with a medical condition may be in pain or compromised in some way, but they still find a way to make the most of what life has given them.

Jack and his sister were adopted as kittens, the rescue was contacted to take them back almost a year later. Jack had open, oozing wounds covering 80% of his body and was so withdrawn that he remained huddled in a curled-up position for weeks. After multiple medical visits and treatments, it was determined Jack had a food-sensitive autoimmune disease. After 7 months of a diet that consists only of Hill’s Science Prescription Z/D and D/D hydrolyzed food, Jack still has scabs and scars but now plays tirelessly like a kitten with other foster cats and is slowly learning that a human’s hand is comforting, not painful.

When our daily lives become difficult or we are faced with our own physical disabilities, a special needs cat can be a powerful influence to keep us going and focus on the positive. Maybe the connection with a vulnerable soul is because they are more dependent, or they sense our compassion and empathy.

JACK will need a furry companion that will tolerate his constant desire to play. He will also require someone who will be vigilant with his diet and care to keep him happy and healthy. His adoption will include a 3-month supply of food. If you are able to provide a lifetime commitment, please complete our pre-adopt application: https://form.jotform.com/230318780459057 or call 907-632-4797 to discuss.

Adopt Toulouse

Contributed by Linda von Bose

Say hello to TOULOUSE! This big (and we do mean BIG) buff orange guy is just a hunk of burning love.

Found wandering the streets of Spenard in early winter searching for food and was brought in by a kind human, nursed back to health, and spoiled like all cats deserve to be. He is approximately two years old but does not like dogs (maybe because of a bad experience while trying to survive). Does okay with other laidback cats but could do just fine as an only cat.

Please call/text ALASKA’S FORGOTTEN FELINES at 907-632-4797 or to view all adoptable kitties and access pre-adoption forms, visit https://akforgottenfelines.wixsite.com/akforgottenfelines.

Meet Maya and Millie

Contributed by Angie Lewis

These two beautiful girls are 3 years old, vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed. They are the product of a broken home – Mom and Dad moved out of state and left the “children” behind. I am sure that at one point in their lives, these dogs meant everything to the couple. Now, however, are merely pawns in an ugly game.

Millie was taken to the pound, where she almost had a breakdown. I would like to adopt these two together if possible. If not, then so be it.

Mya is very shy and typically relies on Millie to learn to become comfortable and more social.

Millie is the German Shepard. If you would like to learn more about these gals or to meet them, please call Angie at 907 841-3173.

Adopt Penny

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann

I am a cute, petite 8-month-old girl, am sweet as honey, and ready for my forever loving family.

I love to play with my people. Toys don’t have to be some fancy toy from the toy store; crunch up a piece of paper and give it a toss and I will have the time of my life! I know how to have fun with whoever or whatever comes to my paw. I am a most delightful little furball who also loves pets and cuddles when playtime is over.

I will need a kitty friend in my new home and family. A mellow dog would be fine too. I love racing through the yard and finding twigs to play with, so a place where I can go outside to play in nice weather is important.

To meet me, please call or text 907-980-8898. To see other adoptable kitties, please visit https://clearcreekcatrescue.org/ or https://www.facebook.com/clearcreek.catrescue

Adopt Olive

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann

I am a sweet and gorgeous 6-month-old ebony girl. I was rescued from a large colony and adore the company of other friendly cats. I love to play, talk, and snuggle with my feline friends. I am quite shy around humans and take time to warm up to them. However, once I do, I am a fan of morning snuggles with you. Other favorite activities include bird watching, sunbathing, photobombing, and playing with all my toys.

Please note that I do not like dogs. Even seeing or hearing a dog outside can send me running to a safe place. I need a quiet environment with at least one or more friendly cats that can help me interact with humans. I will also need a safe outdoor space to explore.

To meet me, please call or text 907-980-8898. To see other adoptable kitties, please visit https://clearcreekcatrescue.org/ or https://www.facebook.com/clearcreek.catrescue.

Adopt Olive

Contributed by Kelleigh

Orthmann

I am a resilient and affectionate feline who has overcome a rough past. For a year, I lived alone, evading capture until finally getting trapped and put in foster care.

I am a gentle soul that craves love and attention, melting into head scratches, chin scratches, and snuggles. Despite my tough exterior, I have never hissed or bitten. I was part of a loving home at some point. My luxurious coat is still growing in after being shaved, and my true colors are yet to be revealed. I seem to love having a cat friend and would prefer to have one in my new home. I am purrfect with people and am eager to find a patient and loving home where I can thrive. But, please, no small children. I need a quiet and compassionate space to call my own, where I can receive endless chin scratches and adoration. I will need a safe place outside with my family to enjoy the summer that’s coming soon. I am a young adult, about 3 years old. To meet me, please call or text 907-980-8898. To see other adoptable kitties, please visit https://clearcreekcatrescue.org/ or https://www.facebook.com/clearcreek.catrescue.

The City of Wasilla 4th of July Parade 2024 COMMUNITY

Contributed by Bethany Buckingham Follett, City of Wasilla

The City of Wasilla 4th of July Parade 2024 will be held Thursday, July 4, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in downtown Wasilla!

The State of Alaska American Red Cross and the City of Wasilla will be providing public resources at the City of Wasilla 4th of July Parade!

The American Red Cross of Alaska, Wasilla branch, will be providing a basic First Aid Station from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., in the parking area at Central Mat-Su Fire Station 6-1, 101 W. Swanson Avenue. This location will additionally serve as a reunification point for lost and missing persons. Please do not stand, sit, place chairs, or linger in the driveway area of the fire station. This area needs to remain clear for the deployment/arrival of any emergency vehicles.

Additionally, please remember to keep your family behind any barricades, on sidewalks, and in designated safe areas. Barricades set up at the parade are there for a reason as it has been identified by a safety officer in authority that the barricades are necessary. Please keep the parade route open for parade traffic by staying off the pavement and remaining on the sidewalks or grassy areas.

LOST/FOUND PROPERTY Lost and found property will be located at the

Wasilla Museum & Visitors Center, 391 Main Street. If items are not claimed by the close of the event, the property will be turned over to the Wasilla Police Department.

PLEASE NOTE: Our parade route has been revised this year! See below. The new route is a trek of approximately 2.5 miles; therefore, we encourage groups who are walking to be well prepared. For a printable map of the revised parade route that includes the above-mentioned locations and other public resources available during the event visit www. CityofWasilla.gov!

MAYOR’S PICNIC: Following the parade join us for the Mayor’s Picnic, 1:00–3:00 p.m., Iditapark, 500 W. Nelson Avenue, where you will enjoy free hotdogs while supplies last, a hotdog eating contest, more food, fun activities, and live music by Woodrow.

Following the Parade and Mayor’s Picnic, join us on the other side of Iditapark, near Wonderland, for the Music in the Park finale concert from 3-9PM! It will feature a talent show hosted by Nashville artist Hope Cassity as well as live music by Hope Social Club. 594 W. Nelson Ave, Wasilla. While there are safety tips for just about any event, these parade safety tips are on the must-follow list for family safety:

1. Keep the family behind any barricades, on sidewalks, and in designated safe areas. If there are

barricades set up at the parade you are attending, they are there for a reason as it has been identified by a safety officer in authority that the barricades are necessary. Talk to children about the importance of remaining behind the barricades. Ensure no one is leaning on or knocking barricades over as these actions can result in injuries themselves.

2. Do not run into the street. Floats cannot stop quickly.

3. For the sake of your toes. Keep your family in designated safe zones with your feet tucked out of the way of oncoming floats and vehicles.

4. Identify designated lost/found missing persons areas. Before you head out to the parade, research if there are any designated areas where lost children are brought to meet their families. Point out any police or safety officers to your kids as you make your way to your parade viewing spot. If there are no special designated areas identified by the parade professionals, designate your own area where kids can meet you if you get separated.

5. Stay charged. Before leaving your house, make sure everyone has charged their phones. If older children have phones, make sure they bring them with them in case of an emergency.

6. Plan a buddy system. If you are going to the parade with a large group of

people, or you have a large family, set up a buddy check before you leave. Pair off members of the family in groups of two. Make sure there is always an older person with the youngest children. Let family members know that they must stay with their buddy and not separate for any reason.

7. Be careful. You may decide to place a small child on your shoulders for the sake of their viewing pleasure; be careful, crowds can shift forward suddenly and unexpectedly, making it easy to get knocked over.

8. Check the weather forecast. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. If you are outdoors, you could be exposed to long periods of direct sunlight. Bring sunscreen and reapply regularly.

9. Bring water and snacks. Restaurants, food vendors, and convenience stores could be crowded with long wait times. Pack food and water so you do not have to search for it.

The most important part of a parade is creating memories and enjoying family fun! Talk to your children about the potential hazards and emergencies that may arise and go over your parade safety tips before it’s time for the event. When everyone is prepared, a safe time means you’ll have plenty of room for family parade fun!

Contributed by Carmen Summerfield

Mighty Machines! Saturday, July 13

Mighty Machines at the Museum, that is!

It will be at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry, MATI for short. The Museum is located at 3800 W Museum Drive, Wasilla.

So many machines are at the MATI, where do I start? Planes, trains, and automobiles, so let’s start with planes…

The Fairchild C-123 was originally designed as an assault glider. In 1992, our C-123 took off from the Glenn Highway by the Fairgrounds, to fly over to its present location. Trains… The Alaska Railroad F unit #1500 was in the 1985 movie “Runaway Train.” Automobiles… My favorite car is the Model T Homesteader

Truck. To stay in character with the Homesteader Truck, A.J. Seims, aka MooseJaw, will be stopping by at 2 PM and 4 PM. On Saturday, July 13, admission is 50% off, so only $5. Donations are greatly appreciated!

There will be a Tractor Parade, Hayrides, a Bouncing House, Face Painting, Rock Painting, a performance by A.J. Seims, aka MooseJaw, at 2 PM and 4 PM, Live Music, and Food. All this for only $5, kids 12 and under free. See you Saturday, July 13, 10 AM - 5 PM at Mighty Machines at the Museum!