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University of Alaska Anchorage Department of Journalism and Public Communications ~.truenorthmag.net Go Here www.penatr.com• To Get There

ST. PAUL

Now you can book on-line with PenAir and enjoy the convenience of e-ticketing. 1-800-448-4226 True North

Letter From The Editor

~tllJ~ . The staff of True North considers it a blessing and slight burden to carry on the legacy of this magazine. For 12 years, True North has showcased the distinctiveness of Anchorage, and the university that is its quiet economic and cultural force. This year is no exception. True North 2006 revels in some of the essential reasons to love where we live. We will introduce you to some local cowpokes and let you in on what comes after competing in the Olympics. We're pretty sure we know exactly how you should spend your tax refund and we suggest how to get around, "get down," and enjoy the summer sun. We have an insider's view of plastic surgery in the Last Frontier. And, just like any other college class, there's a test at the end, but the only study guide you'll need is a pair of bunny boots and a roll of duct tape. It was my pleasure this year to work with such an exceptional staff. As individuals, we are privileged to do something we love and (eventually) make a living from it. Each writer, photographer and designer for TN has drawn from a source of creativity and managed to stay confident and positive despite obstacles. We hope that what you discover this year is not only enjoyable, but also encourages you to go out and unearth your own reasons to love this place.

- Forrest Schroeder-Einwiller, editor in chief

True North Vol. 12 A production of the UAA Department of Journalism and Public CommunicatlOns Assistant Professor Paola Banchero, True North adviser 907-786-4194 truenorthmag net/ truenorth(iI,uaa.alaska.edu

1 True North Table ents

Love This Place Community

49th state of mind Inside Juneau Keep the spirit alive Working for the powerful Page 37 Page 10-11

Are you a true Alaskan? Find out if you are a true blue Plastic Alaska Alaskan Not just in Beverly Hills Page 30 anymore Page 12-14 Get Out

Tax refund spending On the right track 10 ways to blow it AnchorRIDES rolls Page 3 Page 15

Midnight sun madness Let the sun shine Men without shame Page 4-5 Bob and Mark rock the airwaves Bartending bloopers Page 16-18 Surreal memories Page 6-7 Musical discrimination Determined UAA restricts musical genres Local music promoter to thwart risky behavior Heather Prunty Page 20-21 Page 8-9

Lifestyles Sports/ Outdoors

Enhanced entertaining Scaling new heights Invite your friends over Rachel Steer contemplates life Page 22 Page 26-27

Tired of takeout Sibling rarity Food is no longer your foe Alaska cowpokes kick it Page 24-25 Page 28-29

True North

Get Out

The peak of the summer solstice usu­ ally occurs on June 21 in the northern hemisphere and on Dec. 21 in the southern hemisphere. Because the earth rotates at a tilt, the northern and southern hemispheres have a solstice completely opposite of one another. Summer in Alaska is defined by the activi­ ties that go along with the solstice. All across the state there are parties, music festivals, barbecues and baseball games to not only enjoy the warm nights, but also to celebrate the arrival of summer. Here is a list of all the happenings this year: Fairbanks: Catch a late-night game with the world's most northern baseball club, the Fairbanks Goldpanners, in the 101st annual Midnight Sun Baseball Classic. What began as a bet between two bars over a century ago has turned into one of baseball's most distinctive events. June 21 Growden Memo­ rial Park. Girdwood: Get in touch with nature at the 31st annual Girdwood Forest Fair. Music, entertainment, food and crafts adorn this gathering for three solid days of family fun. Bring friends, admission is free. July 7,8,9 www.girdwoodforestfair.com. Anchorage: Watch more than 3,500 world-class runners zigzag through Anchor­ age's expansive trail system in the Mayor's Juneau: Watch the lumberjack contests and Marathon and Half-marathon. Better yet, lace up the mining games at the Gold Rush Days Festival some shoes and jog through one of the most scenic held at Diamond Park. This annual gathering cel­ courses in the U.S. There are races for every skill ebrates Juneau's mineral-rich history. June 24-25 level. June 17 www.mayorsmarathon.com. www.juneaugoldrush.com. Valdez: With some of the nation's top play­ wrights in attendance, the Last Frontier Theater Conference is an actor's gathering extraordinaire. Some light facts Hosted at Prince William Sound Community Col­ The sun measures about 865,000 miles lege, there are classes and discussion during the in diameter, about 109 times larger than the day, and performances at night. June 17-24 www. earth. pwscc.edu. The earth receives only about two billionths Seward: Hike up Mount Marathon and back of the sun's total energy output, yet that tiny as fast as you can. That's the goal for runners in fraction is enough to sustain life. the grueling Fourth of July Mount Marathon race. The sun is about 5 billion years old, and Complete with aggressive terrain and near-vertical should continue burning for another 5 billion rock faces, only the strong can survive this chal­ years. lenge. July 4, 2006 www.sewardak.org.

s True North

Bar Tales

Irish Gut Bomb "It was probably around 8 o'clock on a Friday saying, 'What the hell, man. You didn't drink your night, so it wasn't like everyone was drunk yet. shot!' So the buddy, without letting his ill partner People were still pre-partying. So a group of four respond, grabs the cup and downs it for him! By comes in, three guys and one girl and they order a now everyone at the table knew that the guy threw round. The group had probably been in here for 45 up in the cup and they had just watched their minutes to an hour or so and they had been drink­ friend drink puke. It was like the most disgusting ing heavily. So anyway, they order another round of thing I have ever seen, and I thought I was gonna Irish Car Bombs and everybody chugs. As they are vomit! But at the same time it was hilarious 'cause all chugging their drinks, I notice that one of the who drinks their friend's puke?" guys takes half of his and pukes it back up into his cup, but he tries to be sly about it, you know, and - Kelly at Rumrunners Old Towne Bar not let anyone see what had just happened. Then 330 ESt. before anyone realizes, his buddy next to him starts Compiled by Ryan Verney, Nickie Cruthirds and Jordan Huss

, .D o .r::o 0..

Anchorage's bars are known for often disgusting things. We asked Trashed two trash cans: one was full, one was empty. I had "In this bar, when I came here, it was perfectly a glass of peppermint schnapps in one hand, my acceptable to drink while you were working. You purse in the other and I was going to back up to didn't have time to stop and drink a mixed drink the full trash can and lean onto it and sit down. so you learn to drink shots. I worked with a wait­ OH NO! I backed up to the empty one instead and ress who would say 'Patty, let's share a little shot sat down, falling into the can! The bar went totally of schnapps,' and I'd say, 'One shot Barbara, silent and all you could hear was me screaming, just one.' Twenty shots later and I am bombed! 'Somebody get me outta this goddamn trash can!' It It's Friday night and there are cops everywhere took me about five years to live that one down." because one of the bloodiest fights that ever oc­ curred in this bar had just taken place and on top - Patty Irving at the Gaslight Lounge of that, my husband is here. I have no idea what 721 W. Fourth Ave. started the fight because Barbara and I are drunk and the manager is telling my husband, 'Get her outta here!' Well, at the end of the bar there were

6 True North

Get Out

The Dirtier, the Better "It was a Wednesday afternoon, just after our pays his bill, still without ever touching his food busy lunch rush. The bar was completely empty -not even wanting a to-go box- then leaves. As six and I was cleaning up when a well-dressed man o'clock nears, that's when I get off, I start getting walked in. In my four years working there, I had nervous about him coming back. Well, he never never seen him before. He sat at my bar and or­ shows up! So I leave, and just as I was walking out dered a Budweiser and some salmon spread. A to my car, he approaches me. He had a brand new while after I had delivered his food, I noticed he had pair of socks in his hand for me to change into. We not eaten any of it. 'Weird,' I thought. Well, after walked right into the entryway of a nearby restau­ sitting there for a good 25 minutes without touch­ rant; they had a chair for waiting customers. As I ing his food or saying anything, he finally asks me sat down and took my shoes off, he stared at my a question. He says, 'If I paid you $20, could I have feet like a lion watching its prey. It was disgusting! your socks?' So I give him my socks, put on the new ones and 'You wanna pay me money for my dirty socks?' he hands me the $20. He then says, 'Thanks, you I replied loudly. He kind of looked around to see think we can do this, like, once or twice a week?' I if anyone had heard, but there was no one else told him, 'Sorry, this was a one time thing for me,' around. 'Yeah, 111 give you $20 for them,' he said and that was it. I have never seen him again, and quietly. 'OK...sure' I said, and proceeded to take I don't ever want to think about what he did to, or off my shoes to give him my socks. Before I could with, my dirty socks." get them off, he stops me and says, 'Oh, um, could you wear them a little longer and I'll come back for - Audrey Alfaro, F Street Station them when you get off work?' Now I'm thinking, this 325 F St. guy is weird...weird...weird. But I still say, 'OK.' He I

'r raucous moments. Moments when patrons - and sometimes those who tend bar - do and say some odd and lew bartenders at local watering holes to tell us about amomenUheywon't soon forget. We doubt you will either.

Hotel Hit Man "I was working at Cusack's (in the old Northern I jumped behind the curtains and hid! I was like, Lights Hotel) and that's where the Aces hockey 'Oh my God, he's having me shot!' It turned out to players were living at the time. After work one night be some hockey groupie girl and she was actually we all went upstairs to one of the rooms where kicking the door. Of course nothing ever happened, there was an after-work party with some of the but I always wondered if he really had connections Aces. There was a Russian hockey player and he like that." called my friend a cyka (pronounced soo-ka), which is either 'whore' or 'bitch' in Russian. So I slapped - Peggy Boudreaux now at Blues Central him! Then he told me that he had friends in the 825 W. Northern Lights Blvd. KGB and that he was going to call them. Five min­ utes later somebody shows up and pounds on the door really loud - scaring the shit out of me - so

7 True North

Hip Hop Promoter

When Heather Prunty phone calls to West Coast agents, my friends." came to Girdwood in the summer record label representatives, and Prunty continued to struggle of 2000, she had no intention of hip-hop artists to see who was with shows back in Girdwood as staying, let alone starting one of willing to brave a trip to Alaska. well. The bands were scarce and the most successful promotion Synapse Promotions had begun. the musical diversity was practi­ companies in Alaska. She had Prunty started small, using cally non existent. Girdwood had just left Chicago to visit friends venues like the Sitzmark Bar & officially been pigeon-holed as a in Denali and didn't plan to stay Grill to bring up lesser-known bluegrass/jam-band town. past the summer. But when she artists for the first year. Girdwood There were obstacles to over­ found herself driving into Gird­ residents were indifferent at best, come, but Synapse would eventu­ wood on a pristine summer day, and most showed an unenthu­ ally break through the barriers with paragliders lightly floating siastic response toward the MCs of the quiet town. With a better in the clear blue sky, she fell in and DJs snooping in their town. sense of marketing, Prunty con­ love. Prunty decided to move to Still determined to bring qual­ tinued to plan shows in Gird­ Girdwood permanently. However, ity music to Alaska, Prunty set wood. In 2002 she brought up DJ she quickly discovered a problem her sights higher, and her venues Greyboy of the Greyboy Allstars, with her seemingly-perfect town: elsewhere. In 2001 she sealed her and finally got the response she There were no hip-hop shows. first big contract with rap group was looking for; people loved it. "I would go to Anchorage every Latyrx (made up of Lyrics Born Several successful shows fol­ night, even if to just find a DJ and Lateef the Chief) and chose lowed, and music enthusiasts that was spinning hip-hop," Hilltop as the venue. The show from other cities started tak­ Prunty recalls. was not a success. ing note of the name Synapse. About five months later, the "I didn't know the market at all, Not only were Prunty's turnouts soon-to-be promoter decided to I just brought them up," Prunty getting better, she had received do something about Girdwood's says. "Maybe 10 people knew assurance they would stay that situation. She began making who Latyrx was, and they were way by using Girdwood as her 8 True North

Get Out

shows in Girdwood and Fair­ banks, Prunty says shell be tack­ ling venues like the Egan Center and the Sullivan Arena for her more popular acts. Synapse has already dealt with recent offers from names as big as Atmosphere and The Beastie Boys. Six years ago you couldn't find quality hip-hop to save your life in Alaska. From a musical per­ spective, our state was a cul­ tural wasteland. But if Heather Prunty's love for Alaska stays as strong as her love for music, our state is guaranteed a very vital future in the underground music scene.

Top: Pigeon John at the Sitzmark; bottom: Crown City Rockers at Rumrunners headquarters. tracting shows up to four months HEATHER'S TOP 5 "Girdwood was the great fil­ in advance. HIP-HOP tration process," says Prunty. "Before I would just set up ARTISTS/GROUPS "People aren't going to weather shows on the fly," Prunty says. the roads in the dead of winter "I would book a show three to 1. Haiku D'etat (Aceyalone, Mikah 9, Abstract Rude) and drive all the way to Girdwood four weeks out and just somehow 2. LiVing Legends (The Grouch, unless they really want to see an make it happen." Luckyiam, Sunspot Jonz) act." Not only is she now planning 3. Aesop Rock Synapse continued to bring up further in advance, she aspires 4. Sage Francis big names over the next three to bring more than just hip-hop S. Black Star (Mos Def, Talib years including the likes of Bus- to Alaska. Prunty says she'd like Kweli) driver, Pep Love, Blackalicious, to make offers to a wide range of and Grayskul. bands, genres Prunty had become dedicated ranging from as ever in keeping underground punk to indie hip-hop alive in Alaska. She rock. recalled the Living Legends show Prunty will that she hosted, despite getting continue Syn­ food poisoning the night before. apse while still With an IV still in her arm, she securing shows picked up the group from the air­ for Rumrun­ port, took them to the venue, and ners. As long stayed for their entire show. as Synapse "I lost five pounds overnight," isn't directly Prunty recalls. competing with With her reputation growing, Rumrunners Prunty was recently hired as the for a show, entertainment director of Rum- shell be able runners. Prunty says working for to operate both the downtown Anchorage bar has simultaneously. given her a lot more opportunity, Along with including the freedom of con­ doing Synapse

9 of an urban jungle and prefer to call them the 128 steps. When I arrived in a coastal fishing vil­ Vomit Stairs, because I've had more than my Juneau to participate lage. I like to watch the the steps rise from the surroundings to adjust in the Alaska Universi­ state employees walk front door of the local to. I came to this expe­ ties Legislative Intern­ to work in their busi­ soup kitchen, The Glory rience fresh from five ship program, I had to ness clothes; their wool years of waitressing. adjust quickly. Instead overcoats and suits are "My critical My work skills primar­ of finishing my last col­ usually accessorized ily consisted of moving lege semester at UM, with X-TraTuf rubber reading and fast, multi-tasking, and I would receive credits boots. You can tell who's writing skills keeping my opinion to by working for a state come from Anchorage, are invaluable, myself. legislator, participating Seattle, or beyond to The quick reflexes ...... ',.',". lhe second session testify before the Leg­ and unlike my and ability to juggle has 24th Legisla­ islature: they're identi­ previous jobs, served me well, but my ead of reading fied by soaked-through time spent in college ctions of wingtips and high heels. my opinion is classrooms has turned lature Tiers of stairs con­ respected." out to be worthwhile as ing to nect the various levels well. My critical reading and plateaus of town. and writing skills are Because the staircases Hole, and its patrons are invaluable, and unlike W1:en serve as streets, fond of puking on the my pr~Viousjobs, my y of them have landings. The monikor is tQpmion is expected. ea. I liv,e at the top alsohandY,sincevmn­ The interns a.t:e treat­ ~~D,ecker iting is what I feel like ed just like regular staff, iihQUgh I doing after I cliinb all at a fraction of the cost.

10 ibilities are work skills, and the actually a deliberately Instead of being ex tid legisla­ hectic, hilarious, often executed information asperated, she laugged , but I also ful­ riotous life experience I exchange. It is not inac­ and told me that she'd fill. e requirements am receiving. curate to say that half never heard me sound by nading texts, writing The capitol building is the deals in this town so engaged. It's true: I papers, and attending old and distinguished, are made in the bars. have never felt so utterly rnship seminars. My yet packed with vibrant To that end, the Tri­ occupied and excited. academic papers must energy. Last week, angle Bar is dominated The legislative intern­ mdude interviews with student representatives so totally by legislators ship program has been various legislators, so I from the University of and staff that many one of the most inten­ have met with some of Alaska system inundat­ refer to it as their real sive, eye-opening expe­ the most powerful and ed the offices to lobby office. The frantic social riences I've ever had. accomplished people agenda is reminiscent of Before this, I planned on in the state. Most new "It's true: I dorm life. Most people a career in journalism aides would not have here for the session are that might utilize my that opportunity. have never displaced, and expected interest in politics. Now Legislative interns are to conduct business at I'm beginning to con­ involved in all aspects of felt so utterly a breakneck pace, in an sider a career in politics, legislative work. Some occupied and atmosphere filled with assisted by my journal­ research and write new intrigue and subterfuge. ism training. bills, then shepherd excited." Even legislators are liv­ them through a maze ing in seedy efficiencies, For more informa­ of committee hearings. for maximum funding. waiting for the weekends tion about the Alaska Some interns, like my­ Simultaneously, most of to go home to their fami­ University Legislative self, have found the bulk the state school districts lies. Meanwhile, staff Internship program, of their work in the com­ flew in delegations to members are having the please visit http://www. mittees their legislator deliver their education time of their lives. uas.alaska.edu / intern­ sits on. My boss, Repre­ priorities. The floors The other day, I was program. sentative Mary Kapsner were thronged with en­ speaking on of Bethel, sits on the thusiastic college stu­ the phone with Transportation, Re­ dents dragging flotillas a friend whom sources, and Fisheries of balloons and anxious I hadn't spoken Committees. I read and bands of schoolteach­ with since I'd analyze bills that will ers more comfortable left. She had appear in those commit­ teaching algebra than lots of things to tees, provide a synopsis, petitioning for budget tell me about: pros and cons, and im­ crumbs. Add that to the a new boy­ portant questions for my everyday cast of lobby­ friend, a trip ~8S) and take notes on ists, state employees, to Mexico, and tl;le proceedings of the and citizens-with-a-mis­ the thesis she committee. I also share sion that roam the halls, was writing. ,8J:ht1~,ltrativeduties and you have the equiv­ But somehow, ce mate and alent of a crowd scene I couldn't stop ·tuents. from a 1950s musical. I myself from ose sometime expect to see rambling on food vendors, clowns and on about walking on stilts, and oil taxes, gas buskers in the stairwell. pipelines, and Amid all this chaos, budget minu­ transactions are tiae, knowing . What appear full well that ac­ she could care taffis less.

II True North

Cosmetic Surgery Plastic Alaska With the popularity of makeover shows, cosmetic surgery and other procedures no longer have a stigma, even in Alaska Story by Tiffany Fannin and photo by Sarah Quimby

children rive through any town o with her in Alaska and you're bound to husband. see a few bumper stickers that After 25 read Alaska Girls Kick Ass. This years of statement seems to sum up the marriage, rough-around-the-edges women she had that populate the nation's biggest to battle state. through And the women are proud of a messy their reputation, too. Even U.S. divorce. Sen. Lisa Murkowski said the After the phrase when she was up by divorce, 8,000 votes in the 2004 Senate Webb de­ race against former Gov. Tony cided she Knowles. wanted Alaska women are not all to feel women's rights activists, or over­ better achievers who set out to win the about Iditarod, although some have. herself. They have some of the insecuri­ She ties that women do elsewhere. decided They want to feel accepted; they to have UAA student Erin Nesheim looks intently at her reflection. Many women, are affected the same way by the some as young as 14, have done the same and considered cosmetic surgery. a few gorgeous, paper-thin models in cosmetic a Victoria's Secret catalog. Damn that Tyra Banks. Many women in in November 2004. She also had Alaska feel the pressures of being "Go for anything an upper-eyelid lift, which give a certain shape, having a certain you can afford. the eyes a more rested look. In hairstyle and looking a certain January of 2005, she finished up way, just like women allover the Life is short. This with a breast lift and a tummy world. is the only body tuck. But the difference between Webb is open about the work Alaska women and women in we're given, so fix that she has had done and en­ the Lower 48 is that while many it up." courages the rest of us to "go for women in Alaska care about their -Charlotte Webb, 6~ it. Go for anything you can af­ looks, they are usually down-to­ ford. Life is short. This is the only earth enough to admit when their surgeries done, and her ex-hus­ body we're given, so fix it up," she appearances have had a little band agreed to pay half. says. help. In May of 2004, she called Dr. Webb says the total for all of Take, for example, Charlotte Michael Manuel's office to sched­ the procedures was right around Webb, who is a 63-year-old ule a consultation. She had her $20,000. Getting a lot of work grandmother. Webb had four first surgery, a modified face-lift, done over a short period of time

1% True North

Community can be more cost effective. She all the time," she says. cosmetic surgery. says that Manuel marked 10 per­ Last summer, Darolyn went Determined individuals still cent off of each procedure after into surgery for a breast re­ find ways to afford the proce­ the first one. duction performed by Dr. Sara dures. Some refinance their Charlotte says that she was Troxel. She now has average size homes, others throw it on a credit back to work three weeks after breasts ranging from a large B to card, some dig into their 401 (k), the procedures. Fortunately for a small C cup. and others save up. her, Webb hasn't had any com­ Darolyn says the surgery has Troxel's office tends to beat plications and is happy with her drastically changed her life. She around the bush when giving results. plays a lot more sports now that price quotes and estimates with­ "Dr. Manuel didn't want any­ she couldn't play before. Al­ out a consultation, whereas Man­ thing radical. I still look like me, though, Darolyn admits, the big­ uel's office will give a breakdown nothing drastic," she says. "I feel gest advantage is in fashion. of hospital costs, anesthesia and better about myself, a lot better." "A lot of girls my age wear cute post-care costs over the phone, if Webb says that the divorce little tops. I couldn't wear cute requested, before scheduling the gave her motivation to get all of shirts because it's gross! So now consultation. the procedures done, but that I can, it's life changing," she ex­ There are less invasive per­ I claims. manent and semi-permanent "I couldn't wear There are many surgical pro­ cosmetic procedures available in cute shirts because cedures available to women and Alaska that do not involve sur­ men in Alaska. Most of them gery. Botox injections are avail­ it's gross! So now 1 are day surgeries usually last­ able at a few Anchorage derma­ can, it's life chang­ ing around four hours. These tologists' offices. ing." procedures include face-lifts, In a typical Botox procedure, breast augmentation, liposuction, 10 to 18 shots are injected into -Darolyn Wyeth, 17 tummy tucks and ear pinnings. the face. The chemicals in the in­ she probably would have done it While the resources for these jections cause the skin cells to be anyways, eventually, even if she procedures are here in Anchor­ temporarily paralyzed, decreas­ had stayed married. age, (both Manuel and Troxel are ing the appearance of wrinkles. "It seems addictive, I never board certified plastic surgeons) Results from Botox can last up thought it was true, but I think timeliness is not. Both doctors to six months: however, for deep I'm done, but there is a tempta­ are booked many months in ad­ wrinkles, it may wear off sooner. tion there for more," Webb says. vance. A procedure covering the area Cosmetic surgical procedures Plastic surgery is becoming a around the eyes and forehead aren't just for grandmothers or popular trend, thanks in part to can cost anywhere from $350 to divorced women. Teens are get­ reality TV shows like "The Swan" $500 depending on where you go. ting in on the action, too. Darolyn and "Extreme Make-Over." It Another less invasive way Wyeth is a bubbly and energetic seems to have brought a new people are improving their looks 17-year-old. She laughs often open attitude that is replacing is by brightening their smile with and talks fast. the old stigma that used to ac­ professional teeth whitening. In This petite girl with dark company plastic surgery, espe­ a two-hour procedure teeth can bouncing hair and big brown eyes cially in Alaska. get up to 14 shades lighter with has a plethora of friends and "five While plastic surgery is becom­ the use of an ultraviolet light. In best friends." But she felt ham­ ing more common in the Anchor­ the Lower 48 this has become so pered by her size - specifically, age area, cost is still a deterring popular that there are booths set the size of her breasts. By the factor. Most health care plans up in malls just for this purpose. time Darolyn finished her sopho­ do not cover cosmetic surgeries. A handful of Anchorage dentists, more year of high school she had As with any surgical procedures including Dr. Douglas Ness, per­ one size double-D breast and one there are risks, and occasionally form the bright smiles procedure. size E breast. complications. Insurance compa­ This procedure has proven to be "I always had dents in my nies may refuse to cover medical pretty popular among Anchor­ shoulders from wearing big bras costs for complications related to age residents. On average Ness'

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I True North

Chin up or out practice performs between 200 to quickly rack up a bill with cos­ More surgeries and cosmetic 300 ultraviolet light procedures metic dentistry. And once again, procedures are becoming avail­ each year. insurance companies usually able, and Alaska is keeping up. Other ways that people can decline to pay the bill. Somehow Alaska women don't feel ashamed alter their smile to improve their people still manage to afford what or try to hide their cosmetic help. appearance is by getting chips they want. When they get some work done, filled, replacing silver crowns and "We offer several different op­ most of them are happy to tell ev­ fillings with white ones, getting tions for patients on approved eryone about it, because they are porcelain veneer overlays, and credit. We work with local loan upfront and real. Alaska women straightening their teeth. companies and larger ones. But don't pretend to be something Cosmetic dentistry patients most people plunk it on to their they're not. They don't have to, don't have to go under the knife, mileage plan cards," says Mary they already know that they kick and the recovery is a lot less Marshall, office manager at Aes­ ass. severe, but patients can still thetic Dentistry.

14 True North

Community

vices, based in Bremerton, Wash. As a person with physical dis­ Rhonda Moore, operations abilities, Licht encounters obsta­ manager for AnchorRIDES, has cles such as getting around town been involved with transporta­ and being able to write on his tion in Anchorage for almost 28 own. years. "I have a lot to give. I am smart. I "The necessity is growing, peo­ mean, in my disability 1don't have ple are using the transportation my hands, but I have my brain," for more things than for medical he explains. I believe that if I go appointments and work," Moore into business I can make deci­ says. Compared to the other sions that can help and benefit a transportation systems I've dealt company. I could help everybody with, I feel blessed in Anchor­ if you have smart people making age. AnchorRIDES, in conjunc­ the right decisions." tion with other funding sources, Licht, who grew up in Alaska, provides transportation to people knows it can be a pain to get with disabilities. This service can around if you don't have your be used for any trip purpose, in­ own vehicle. And even if you do, cluding shopping, social visits, there are times it's tough to get a school and volunteer work. An­ parking space or get onto the side­ chorRIDES has 43 buses that it walk. Sometimes, though, moving By Juanita A. Morales uses to get people around town. forward has nothing to do with "We actually had in one day, 800 transportation at all: "I just try to rides," Moore says. keep a good attitUde," Licht says AnchorRIDES' philosophy is to "that helps keep me going." SoundS freeing, but for me, provide safe and efficient trans­ AnchorRIDES is a great deal. a road trip - just around Anchor­ portation, Moore says. I love the other places I've lived age - requires more than just The cost for each ride is $3 to - from my native country Panama acting on a whim. $4.50. Students with disabilities to Hawaii - but when I'm not in When I came to Alaska, I attending the University of Alaska Alaska, I find myself missing the learned the true meaning of Anchorage may use a valid Wolf­ blue sky and the mountains that beauty and independence. I have card identification to ride for free. remind me that God made mag­ seen more beauty here than The Seawolf shuttle gets stu­ nificent sights. anywhere else. And nothing can dents - including those with dis­ When I am here, I feel that I am compare to the independence abilities - around the UAA cam­ home. I always get caught gaz­ that Alaska has brought me. I've pus. ing at the trees, birds, the water long struggled with transporta­ Shane Licht is a UAA business and all the nature that surrounds tion - just getting from Point A student who uses a wheelchair. me. In my moments of reflection, to Point B. Somehow I managed "I don't want to sit at home, and in my search for happiness, I to get most places I needed to go do nothing and be bored. I need can feel that getting a fide to see on time. I used to get frustrated something to do, so I don't want my city is having independence. by this, but I learned to be grate­ to just sit back and collect money Whatever I've had before cannot ful for what I have. from the state," Licht says. "I want compare with the experiences that What I have in Anchorage is to work and feel that actually I de­ Alaska has brought into my life. AnchorRIDES. AnchorRIDES is serve the money that I am mak­ I had never realized that Alaska operated by a private, nonprofit ing. Coming to school gives me would become part of who I am. company called Paratransit Ser­ something to do and will help me With the long days upon us, I'm to be able to work." ready to hit the road. IS True North

Radio Disc Jockeys

"Men without shame," says a radio spot on 106.5 KWHL at 7 in the morning as ~ Anchorage tries to pull itself out of bed. The city shares its morning cof­ fee with Bob and Mark, the masterminds be­ E hind the often rude and crude Bob and Mark ~ Morning Show, but to see them on the streets with their families, you'd never suspect these two (IJ .c Q;l middle-aged guys are capable of such antics. ~ The guys behind the humor on the Bob and Mark Morning Show on (I) ~ When you first KWHL-FM 106.5 are family men addressing issues important to Alaskans. .-;. listen to their show, ~ you are bombarded by ~ Q;l boorish humor that Story and photos by Lindsey Miller .c...... is designed to shock you, but if you can sit ~ ~ through five minutes Q without turning the dial ;. in the room breaks out you might actually learn and how they affect the ~ in laughter before they = ;. families and citizens of something. Bob and ~ Alaska. replay the conversation Mark frequently talk ~ Inside a small south on the air. about important issues, ='C Anchorage radio station This isn't an un­ a lot of them pertain­ Bob and Mark listen to usual call for them. The .c =~ ing to Alaska, such as a call they received the program is controver­ the proposed natural ~ J:J. other day from a mother sial to some listeners, Q gas pipeline, a proposed whose son listens to but that's what makes I sales tax and the Arctic their show. The mother it engaging. Combin­ • = National Wildlife Refuge. is concerned about how ing parodies, everyday Another big seller for they conduct themselves news, a natural sense their show is the fre­ ~ of humor, and everyday on the show and how quent guest spots of it's affecting her son's conversation makes the local political figures. attitude and behavior. show distinct. Sarah Palin, Eric Croft, They go on to explain to These two didn't just Mark Begich, the late her that it's her respon­ miraculously run into Jay Hammond and sibility, not theirs, to each other one day and Wally Hickel have all teach her son the differ­ decide to become one of = been guests on their ence between reality and the most popular radio ~ morning show. Bob and make believe. The mom duos in Anchorage his­ Mark aren't looking for says a few words about tory. material for their next how they should think Bob and Mark have political joke when they about their actions been together for 10 book notable Alaska :=! years now. Both of them before telling them both people. They genuinely to go to hell. Everyone have qualities that make care about the issues the show work and

16 True North

Community

reach their ideal audience: males Their audience is important to extra hour of airtime. They had between 20 and 50, according to them and they say that's what full control of the station until their 22-year-old male producer makes them appealing. about five at night when they known to the public as "Alice". "You never know what you're successfully got the extra time Bob is an average guy. If a lis­ going to find, you know," Bob they wanted. The event drew a tener ran into him outside of his says. "Some of the people that crowd of about 300 and even had job, they probably wouldn't rec­ you would consider unimportant Boomer, the Alaska Aces mascot, ognize him and never guess that have the most interesting stories. helping direct traffic. he is one of the minds behind the To us everybody's important. Bob and Mark get people in­ shock entertainment. Everybody's got a story to tell. terested, not only from the en­ Bob, who grew up in Yakima, We just like them to tell it on our tertainment aspect of their show, Wash., moved to Alaska in 1991 show." but also with issues and people for some DJ work and has never Regular curiosity motivates that are important to Alaska and left since. His first radio job in Bob and Mark. They want to the nation. Although they involve Alaska was with Scott Dooley do­ understand the issues that affect themselves in political hot topic ing the Dooley and Dog Show for them, which is usually the stuff conversations, they don't claim Power 102. He says family ranks to try and influence the voters. "number one, number two and Their topic choices and guests number three" in his life. He's a "To us everybody's happen because they are natural­ family man with a wife and two important. Everybody ly attracted to things that affect sons, ages 4 and 10. has a story to tell. We our individual, family, neighbor­ Mark "Hit Man" Colavecchio hood and children's lives. says becoming Bob's on-air part­ just like to tell it on "We just throw out information ner was "an accident," and he our show." and conversation and entertain­ never thought it would turn into ment how we see it, but voters what it is today. from 18-24 are those kids that Mark owned the New Yorker that other people want to know are all vocal, they love to talk a Deli in the downtown bus transit and understand, too. good game, they like to get out center and listened to the show "People are busy, they don't there and protest this and rage as background noise until one have time to think about an is­ against that, except they don't day he decided to call in. sue, and talk about it with other vote," says Mark. "I would call up and be a people," Mark says. "We try to Getting people to vote is hard, wiseass," says Mark. "You know get you for that 15 minutes that and getting young people to joke around with Bob on the you commute from the Valley or vote is even harder. In the 2004 phone." Those phone calls landed whatever." presidential election, only 34,836 Mark the job of reading the daily Their natural news on the morning show. connection and "I didn't have any intention sick sense of hu­ of doing it," he says. "But I did mor get Bob and and when I went in I said I'm Mark morning not going to read the news the show ratings, way news people read the news, but in the past 'cause that's boring." it's also gotten Outside of the show Mark is them more time • a father of three and a husband on the air. who proudly says, "My family... In 1999 Bob that's the most important thing and Mark locked to me." themselves in If you listen to their show on a the studio to try regular day you will find a pat­ and force the tern: Bob and Mark have people studio managers constantly calling in just to talk. to give them an I' True North

Bob and Mark Show

Alaska voters between the ages show. "As the Bush Turns" is a hilarious, of course, and gra­ of 18-24 cast their ballot. That's former soap parody of President cious to me. I debated another less than 42 percent of registered Bush that poked fun at the presi­ candidate on the show and their Alaska voters in that age group. dent and the issues he was facing questions were bizarre, uncon­ During the months preceding at the time. ventional, and the challenge was the presidential election, youth "Politics is great for entertain­ what I liked. They know their were bombarded with campaigns ment," Mark says. "Because politics too!" and slogans encouraging them Palin also admits to listening to get out and vote. Pop star P. "Because politicians when her opponents are on to get Diddy's campaign "Vote or Die" are public figures, some insight on them. She agrees was on every celebrity's T-shirt they're open to ridicule that by having political figures on the closer it got to Election Day. and satire and what the show Bob and Mark makes Campaigns like these had good have you. That's the na­ politics more appealing to young intentions but when the numbers people. came through, it was evident ture of the beast." "They're very politically astute that they didn't have the effect politicians are public figures, and do well interacting with poli­ they had hoped. In Alaska, Mark they're open to ridicule and sat­ ticians," she says. "They do well thinks that all those youth driven ire and what have you. That's having them on the show and it campaigns are garbage. "You're the nature of the beast." may be the only educational fo­ either gonna vote or you're not," There is both positive and rum that some listeners are privy he says. Voting is important to negative feedback from the po­ to, so the show really provides a Bob and Mark. They even have litical figures that have been on valuable service to the commu­ a link to register to vote on their the Bob and Mark Show. Gov. nity! They love Alaska and Alas­ Web site (\\TWW.BobandMark. Frank Murkowski appeared, kans, obviously, and this shines com). but Mark says, he left quickly through their interactions with "If you're 18 and you're old after the questions he was guests. And they're hilarious." enough to vote, you better be," asked made him nervous. Palin who is a candidate for says Bob. He says you need to Sarah Palin, former mayor of governor of Alaska this year said vote whether or not you agree Wasilla, has been on the show she would be the first person with an issue. Bob and Mark's several times as a caller and a to sign up if Bob and Mark ever goal of the show isn't primarily to studio guest. initiate a public debate. In fact, inform voters, but politics is also "[I've] loved being on the they are planning a debate with used as entertainment for the show," Palin says. "They're all the gubernatorial candidates. Everyone is invited, even Frank Murkowski if he decides to run I again. Bob hopes it will be "more fun, more entertaining and a little bit more loose." He also hopes that this debate reaches out to the young people of Alaska as well as other voters in the state. Bob and Mark celebrated their 10 years of being together on air last November, a testament that their program actually reaches out to the public. Whether they are spending the day talking to gubernatorial candidates or just chatting with listeners about the outrageous price for an XBox 360, people are sure to tune in to be entertained, informed or both.

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136 E. 6th Ave., Anchorage, AK 907·276·6923 UAA students and fans cram together for the Fat Tour It's an often-voiced complaint that if you live in Alaska, you can expect the following: Shopping and started to gain the attention of the UA administra­ dining chains aren't coming (despite the rumors), tion. plane tickets anywhere else are expensive, and we "Well, it was pretty rocking," said journalism don't get any good bands. student Andrew Schmitt. "...The only thing I didn't While this may be the majority belief, students in­ enjoy was how high the riser was and how I kept volved in bringing bands and performers to campus bashing my shins up against it, but that's pretty are trying to change your view, despite the chal­ much my fault." lenges. All three of these bands have a harder rock sound For the last few years, Concert Board, KRUA than many of the other groups that have appeared and UAA Student Activities have been scoring big­ at the University of Alaska Anchorage and was a ger names and drawing in larger crowds. Even for turning point for all future performances on-cam­ KRUA, which has a small budget to work with, pus. station staff members have been able to get un­ "The Fat Tour was loud and different from any­ derground names that people know or in the case thing that had been here before," says J.R. Zufelt, of the Fat Tour, they helped fulfill a tour goal of KRUA station manager at the time of the Fat Tour. playing in all 50 states. It's this idea of bringing big­ "It was sweaty with a lot of bodies and to some may ger, better bands to the UAA music scene that has have felt out of control. We had things under con­ trol, but to some staff it didn't seem that way." The university's risk management office say$ there is a "perceived risk" when it comes to pe~ mances of any kind and this risk increases: 4~ ing on the style or type of event. "UA requires that all external ent:i1;ie$ ity insurance when using UA faciliti tor of support services Trig Tri~ of low-impact activities, we may' insurance requirements." Those waivers are often app • ings and other mellow perfor a weekly lunch-time ~ aiver-worthy ~ th~ hows arelOw- . or

%0 Lifestyle

"We had a meeting with risk management and could be deemed a main stage UPD in order to discuss the on-campus events and e the university proof of insur­ insurance," says Concert Board coordinator Zac e it through the UA risk manage- Clark. "Our goal was to find ways that would allow departments to lower the risk of their events and not have to pay for extra insurance. For example, the Raining Jane show was a sit-down event be­ cause that will lower the risk of people dancing and moving around, and possibly having an accident." Other student-related activities are also hindered by this policy. The annual Campus Kickoff faced hurdles last fall. The event has included rides such as a mechanical salmon (think mechanical bull, except a fish). But this year the contractor couldn't provide insurance, so organizers had to nix the salmon. The future of events on campus is uncer­ tain, but KRUA and other departments that spon­ sor similar programs are determined to continue bringing high-quality acts to campus. Zufelt pointed out that when KRUA sponsors a show, the station doesn't make any profit, and often ends up losing money in the end. "It's not about the money," he said. "It's about the students and bringing them what they want."

ZI True North

Entertaining EEnhanced enter'~1~I!rng ntertaining is a great way without cooking. For for anyone to spend time with example, a taco night Ioved ones, express thanks, or only requires chop­ celebrate a special occasion. ping and browning During recent conversations ground beef. You with twenty-somethings I found can prep the meals many of them were starting to but your guests get entertain. family and friends in to have fun putting th elr homes. Most remarked get their plates together togethers usually happened at they way they want a particular person's apartment them. where the kitchen is the size of the bathroom and the dining Limited funds room consisted of miscellaneous If you are one chairs and a table found at a ga­ of the many poor rage sale. Although space and the college students or caliber of furniture is not some­ recent graduates thing that may impress guests, with entry-level posi­ evenings together with loved ones tions, entertaining is worth entertaining. is still possible Make the space where you entertain special. Wendy Farrell, an18-year-old on a budget. Set college freshman, recently found the budget de­ her love of cooking after taking pending on the amount of guests Setting the mood a culinary class in high school. you want to entertain. Whether Entertaining is not just about The idea of entertaining her fam­ the budget is $20 or $50, there the food. ily and friends is something she are still options. If the budget is "I hate it when I go to some­ looks forward to when she finds not reasonable to have a party one's house for a dinner party her first apartment. "You get you could always co-host with and we sit in front of the t.V. I enjoyment out of seeing people a friend or family member. Also, could do that at home," Callie enjoy what you made and it's if a guest asks if they can bring Gates said. fun to get together with friends," anything, try to come up with A good way to set the mood is Wendy said. something that is not financially with music instead of the televi­ Entertaining as a young adult imposing, but will be needed sion for background noise. consists of creativity and plan­ such as beverages or dessert. Decorating the table with flow­ ers, candles or a disposable table ning. Many of us do not have a Limited Space cloth is a nice way to spruce up lot of money, space, or time to "I wish I had a bigger kitchen," the old garage sale look it usually plan extravagant dinner parties groans Callie Gates, a junior at has. Make the space you enter­ like our older counterparts, but Alaska Pacific University. Ask tain special for the occasion. If it putting together a fun dinner those who enjoy entertaining and is a birthday blow up balloons. party is still possible. cooking, and they'll agree that Always remember that enter­ As a young host you may en­ the smaller the kitchen is the taining should be more fun than counter problems. Here are some harder it is to work in. One way work, so make sure you plan helpful tips to make your party a to alleviate the stress of such a success. small space is by prepping your ahead so you can enjoy the party a long with your guests. Follow Cooking is not my forte dinner party early. The more you these tips to help ease the first You do not have to be Wolfgang can make and clean up before time jitters and make your eve­ Puck to have a dinner party. your guests arrive, the better you ning a success. Good luck! There are many ways to cook will feel. LEAVE YOUR MARK AT UAA

Permanently display your name on campus and create a lasting legacy for your children, your grandchildren, your community. Foucault Pendulum For $ I00 your name, or another name of your choice, will be permanently linked to one of the pendulum's 360 degrees. Tradition Walk Commemorate a special date, your graduation information, or remember a loved one with the purchase of a UAA granite brick. Starting at $100.

For more infol'mation, call the Alumni Relations Office at 907·786· 1942 or visit our website at: www.uaa.alaska.edu/alumni 1fi/;AWMNI ASSOCIATION

------­ The Next Stage®

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In The Kitchen

By Jordan Buss and BreAnn Miller

What does a col­ lege student have to do to get a decent dinner? The answer lies right in the kitchen. Not the kitchen of a restaurant or the univer­ sity cafete­ ria, but your kitchen. Knowing how to cook is a liberat­ ing ability. Not only can you curb your addic­ tion to drive­ throughs, but you can A sub sandwich doesn't look as good once you can cook. save money and control the nu­ tritional content of your meals efits. Eating home-cooked food is as well. With cooking skills, the healthier, cheaper and, of course, days of eating food from vend­ tastier. ing machines, campus eateries, Setting up a kitchen: and fast-food joints are over. The Outfitting an entire kitchen best part of learning to cook is might sound expensive, but if that you get to decide what's for you use your thrift skills, you can dinner, and you can eat it in your have well-equipped kitchen for a pajamas if you want to. sensible price. Check out garage While intimidating at first, the sales and second-hand stores art of preparing food is actually for bargains on everything from easy, inexpensive and a lot of spatulas to toaster ovens. Ask fun. Learning to cook is one of your parents and other relatives the most important accomplish­ for hand-me-downs, or check out ments that you can achieve. Once box stores for cheap utensil pack­ you take control over what you ages. eat, you'll reap a lifetime of ben­

:24 True North

Lifestyle

Learning to cook: College is all about learning, so why not teach yourself ===r-_rr~----=:;;~'I:fr----=::;;;;;;;;;;;;:;;;: to cook? It's a skill that you will use three times a day for the rest of your life, and it can also help you im­ press people. Try that with algebra! There are plenty of community classes and demon­ strations available to the public at any given time. Classes like knife handling and sushi making are just a few of the more popular ones. Look in the local paper or Chef Felix Zollinger, executive chef at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, demon­ online for classes and schedules. strates how to prepare ahi tuna during a free cooking class provided by Spenard The television is a great outlet for Builders Supply. Cooking classes - from making basic sauces to baking elabo­ rate desserts are offered around town throughout the year. cooking shows, and the library should have a huge selection of cookbooks and back issues of cooking magazines. Like anything day-to-day items needed for the the peanut butter jar. Sharing a else, the more you cook the better kitchen. There are also discount kitchen with other people does you will be at it. Don't be afraid warehouses that sell items in have its perks. It can be cost ef­ to try new recipes or cooking bulk, which is helpful if you are fective to share common items techniques. buying goods for the whole house such as sugar or flour, and they to use. Ethnic and specialty food might also have appliances that Kitchen Safety: stores are a great place to find you otherwise would have had to Cooking is a relatively safe worldly ingredients that a regular buy. It also helps if your room­ activity, as long as you follow store doesn't carry. If it's the right mate can cook, too. That way you the basic rules of the kitchen. season, farmers markets offer the can share the cooking duties and Safe practices like turning pot freshest produce and meats avail­ take turns doing the dishes. handles away from you and hold­ able, at very reasonable prices. ing knives properly can keep you Cooking is a skill that takes from injuring yourself or oth- Sharing the kitchen: minutes to learn, but years to ers. If you have a small kitchen, This is a matter that can make master. But with steady practice it's especially important to keep or break a household. People and a pinch of creativity, you can things neat and organized to have their own definition of clean, make house-warming meals that avoid any incidents. Keep food and everybody has quirks that everyone will enjoy. Like any suc­ refrigerated and don't use ingre­ simply annoy the hell out of other cessful recipe, the most impor­ dients with passed expiration people. Getting all the issues out tant ingredients are the friends dates. As the old saying goes, on the table at the beginning of and family that you can share it "when in doubt, throw it out." the semester can save a lot of ir­ with, because the best way to eat ritation and animosity. The toast better is to eat together! Shopping for food: crumbs in the butter may not Supermarkets are a great place bother you, but your roommates to find produce, meat and other might not like that too much. The same goes for jelly bits in True North ~------• By Rachel Steer Sea In n I always wanted to be a beauty queen. Mostly I wanted to wear a tiara and r thought that entering a pageant was the only way to get one. A big reason Rachel Steer, the best female why I never did it was my talents weren't exactly valued on the beauty circuit. I don't think the judges produced, contemplates her ft would be impressed by my blindfolded rifle assembly trick, my shaky singing voice, my lack of rhythm, and my violin playing. The thing has been sitting under the bed since eighth grade. At age 28, r am too old to be doing the pageant thing. Now that my biathlon career is over, and I don't have an Olympic medal or a tiara, I'm looking for other ways to bring purpose to my life. Biathlon (cross-country skiing and shooting) has been my life since I was 14. I have been to two Olym­ pics and six World Championships. Sport has been good to me, but it is time to stop. r knew I was going to retire two years ago, but it took until this spring to accept that fact. Finishing a sports career without Olympic medals or World Championship trophies is kind of like losing your virginity. It is not important to anyone except you. Few people will remember whether I was 10th or 50th, except me. When your self-validation is directly related to performance, a season of bad results can be difficult to accept. After two years of steady improvement and small successes, last winter was incredibly hard. One poor result after another left me feeling like I had no worth. I spent a lot of time wondering: What did I do wrong? What can I do to fix it? Now I am leaving a world where I feel I have failed and I am entering an­ rewarding. Most of all, it was predictable. other that is scary and new. This is not exactly how I But there was a point about three years ago when envisioned making the transition. I realized I was wasting my time being a mediocre When I tell athletes, coaches and friends that I am athlete. My results were good, but not the best. I retiring at the end of the season the first response r questioned whether I was contributing to society or hear is, "Oh, is it time to have babies?" just selfishly indulging in a hobby. It is hard for me to explain that women have other What weighs on me the most is the realization that uses in life besides being beauty queens, athletes I equate my self-worth with my body image and ath­ and moms. Especially when I cannot tell them what letic performance. It makes me angry that after a life I am going to do. in sport, I have not allowed myself to accept my body It has been hard to face the end of my biathlon as a tool, something that has helped me get where r career. It's been my life (style) for half my years on am. Earth. It was glamorous and tiring, frustrating and My insecurities are more than skin-deep. I feel

26 True North ~------I~~-I_- ew el• Will I always be this hard on myself? Will I allow myself to succeed...and fail? Will I ever be as pas­ iathlete the United States has ever sionate about something as I am about biathlon? Despite all these negative thoughts, I have a deep­ LIre after retiring ly rooted sense of optimism. It is exciting to think of the possibilities, and of the chance I have to build a life that is not centered on sport. A friend sent me an e-mail that helped me get through an especially hard day. He encouraged me to be positive about my experiences and to look toward the future. He assured me that my concerns will seem trivial someday. To him, building strong relationships and giving to others is what motivates him to get up each day. This advice may seem obvi­ ous, but it gave me inspiration to move on with my life. After the Salt Lake Olympics I went through a period of POD (post-Olympic depression). It is not unusual to experience a letdown after years of train­ ing and two weeks of exciting competition, fanfare and VIP treatment. I anticipated the same thing after Turin. Surprisingly, I did not fall into a chasm of de­ spair. Instead, I left Italy excited about the future. Ifyou were to ask me today what I want to "be" or "do" now that I am retired, my answer would be vague. I want to finish my undergraduate degree at UAA, marry the man I've been engaged to for two years, and find a place to live in Alaska. After that, I feel like I have a lot of options and I am in no hurry to become a 9-5er, tied to a desk. I will finally get to experience all four seasons in one place. A place I call home. I will be able to give that the time I spent refining my biathlon skills was back to a community that has helped me so much. wasted and that I am now entering "the real world" Yes, I will miss the daily challenges and satisfaction late and unprepared. After all, snipers are not in that come with testing my physical limits. Instead, I high demand anymore and Olympians are a dime a look forward to challenging my mind. I look forward dozen in Alaska. I am stepping into a world where to living a less predictable life, and for finding a new how fast I ski doesn't matter. purpose to direct my energy. Most of all, 1 look for­ When 1 share my insecurities with non-athletes, ward to being surrounded by people who love me for they scoff. Athletes are supposed to have high self­ who I am, not how I perform. Maybe then I will be esteems. But there is a paradox in sport that is able to see how fortunate I am. After all, I will only unavoidable. A friend and former athlete once told realize my new purpose in life when I allow myself to me that to excel at sport, you have to put everything accept where I am and what I have done. into it. But if the results don't meet the standard But just in case, I might go out and buy myself you have set, then it can be difficult to accept. There that tiara. is little to fall back on. 27 Alaska Rodeo Sibling rarity A brother and sister reflect on the Alaska rodeo lifestyle By Tiffany Fannin

enne, Wyoming. Most people oeen arouna tne roaeo a.l1 tnelr The rodeo is one of the tough­ think of cowpoke states like Colo­ lives. est sports to break into-assum­ rado, Texas, Wyoming and Oka­ "My dad owns the western ing it doesn't break you first. lahoma, not Alaska. But despite wear shop in Wasilla and he got the many disadvantages that me started in it," Callie says. Rodeo payouts and tours don't Alaska brings, The Last Frontier Callie started riding horses bring the multi-million dollar still has its own cowboy commu­ when she was 2 and competed in contracts that Kobe Bryant and nity. the "kid rodeos." Garrett was a Tom Brady get. These Stetson­ Callie Willis, 22, and her broth­ part of the Little Wranglers Rodeo sporting athletes must pay their er Garrett, 24, have made names Association in Alaska when he own way into a rodeo, and then for themselves in the world of was 4 years old as well. they don't see any money unless Alaska rodeos. In 2000 they both Since those days, the Willis' they win. According to the Pro won the title of All-Around Cow­ have competed each summer at Rodeo Cowboy Association, 24 boy and Cowgirl for the state, the different rodeo events across million tickets are sold at more after they both competed in mul­ the state, in Soldotna and Nini­ than 600 sanctioned events per tiple events. lchik, and in Alaska's largest year. The word "rodeo" usually Both Callie and Garrett have rodeo at the State Fair in Palmer. goes hand-in-hand with Chey­

%8 True North

Outdoors/Sports

Callie's events include barrel was out Callie Willis and partner Randy Grant rope a cattle together for the team roping event at the Palmer Rodeo held each summer at Four Corners Bar. racing, breakaway roping, team for two roping and ribbon roping. Bar­ months of rel racing and breakaway roping one sea­ are women-only events, but team son be­ roping and ribbon roping are fair cause of game for guys and gals. it. But he "There aren't a lot of girl ropers managed up here who do team roping," to still Callie says. "I've had to compete win some against adult men since I was events twelve." shortly As with any sport, the rodeo after his takes practice and dedication, bone had and Alaska brings its own unique healed. set of challenges. Aspiring rodeo After stars struggle more here because all of the of the short season and great ex­ expenses penses involved with training. of buying "We only have a few months to a horse, do this stuff. People in the states training a do it year round every single horse and Wasilla is already a crowd favorite day," Garrett says. feeding a horse, rodeo partici­ in Alaska. The short summer season pants still have to pay entry fees "Sometimes I like to keep my makes it difficult to train a horse. into each event at each rodeo. rodeo clothes on and go into the So many rodeo athletes here buy Fees in Alaska range from $25­ crowd and then I hear people say horses that have already been $65 an event and the prices are 'Oh there she is,'" Callie says. trained in the Lower 48. Callie's even higher at the national level. "It's pretty fun." horses have been trained in Callie currently works three jobs Arizona. This practice is pricy and in the summer she gives rid­ though, costing on average more ing lessons to children when she Rope yourself up than $1,500. Because of this, isn't competing. many rodeo participants can only Garrett is a State Trooper some fun afford one horse to work with at stationed out in rural Alaska. He Each summer Four Corners a time. tries to schedule his leave time Bar in Palmer hosts a series of For Callie this is the hardest around the rodeo season so that events called Beauty and the part about the rodeo lifestyle. he can still participate. Beast. It is a competition for "I get really attached to my He says that the best thing barrel racing and bull riding horses and comfortable with about doing the rodeos up here is events. them," she says. "It's hard. I had being with his family. The Alaska State Fair hosts one horse that I retired but then "We all used to go out and do the state's largest rodeo event got to bring back when the new it. It was like a family vacation each August. ($65 entry fee per horse got a shoulder injury. I every weekend," he says. event) $20 tickets. used him for two more years and Despite Alaska's shortcomings, Soldotna and Ninilchik have then we had to put him down. Callie is still keeping the rodeo a series of four to five rodeos But he was 28." dream alive. She would like to each summer. Soldotna's ro­ The horses aren't the only ones make the rodeo lifestyle a more deos are less competitive and who get injured in these events. full-time gig. more family oriented. ($25 Garrett, who competes in team "I'd like to move out of Alaska entry fee per event) roping, ribbon roping, calf roping and compete somewhere else For more information and and double mugging, broke his where you can do this stuff all descriptions on rodeo events collarbone when one of the hors­ year long," she says. visit www.rodeo.about.com es fell over the top on him. He The tall, willowy cowgirl from

%9 Are you a true Alaskan?

Alaskans are a unique b - OK if you're into that kind of 7: What is your idea of an breed. We understand terms like thing Alaska getaway? the Lower 48 and studded tires. c - a good way to take advantage a - A suicide run to Kenai to dip We unofficially recognize the of silly tourists (we sell them our net in July mosquito as the state bird and animal poop) b - A relaxing stay up at Chena we dress in layers. Just living Hot Springs here and being accustomed to the 4: As an Alaskan driver you: c - A stay at the Alyeska Prince culture doesn't make you a true a - ditch dive Hotel Alaskan. Take our quiz to find b - follow the tire track paths that out how Alaskan you really are. other drivers have made in the 8: When is the last time you snow shaved and how much body 1: You scrape off your wind­ c - drive within the yellow lines hair do you normally sport? shield with: a - earlier today, there's not a - a credit card 5: The grossest place you've much b - an ice scraper ever had to relieve yourself: b - last week, I've got a little fuzz c - Let the defroster do it a - a toilet with a dirty seat c - sometime in the last year, I b - an outhouse like to keep warm at night 2: Carhartts are best for: c - a honey bucket a - looking dead sexy Answer Key: 1: (a-2 b-l c-O), 2: (a­ b - working on your car 6: When you run out of room in o b-l c-2), 3: (a-O b-l c-2), 4: (a-2 b-l c - protecting your body from the freezer you: c-O), 5: (a-O b-l c-2), 6: (a-O b-l c-2), cold weather and chainsaws a - throw something out 7: (a-O b-l c-2), 8: (a-2 b-l c-O) b - eat or drink something to 0-6 Permanent Fund Dividend Re­ cipient 3: You think moose nugget ac­ make room cessories are: 7-10 Fancy Pants c - use your porch 10-13 Alaskan Adventurer a - absolutely adorable 14-16 Grizzly Adams

30 True North

I Love This Place The 49th state of mind By Jordan Huss As Alaska becomes more populated, it risks losing the principles that governed our land. It's up to us to keep that spirit alive

There is no way to define a true Alaskan, nor is there a for­ mula to make one. We are all dif­ ferent people from different cul­ tures, each with a different story to tell. Some were born here, some migrated. Some dreamed of the wild, and some were wild with dreams. Photo courtesy of the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner No matter the reason of ar­ Alaskans and their supporters rejoice after Senate passage of the Alaska rival, we all reside in Alaska for statehood bi]] on June 30, 1958. These men had the Alaska spirit - defined the same reason. We have the by compassion, warmth and community building - and we can't let it fade. Alaska spirit The spirit of Alaska is infec­ table. It meant giving the coat off of life governed by the benevo­ tious. It is the common theme your back so another wouldn't lent principles that once shaped of Alaskans everywhere and freeze. It meant going 1,049 Alaska's welcoming attitude. it originates from the sense of miles out of your way to treat the One by one, people are turn­ sharing in the challenge of build­ sickly. Helping others meant just ing away from the principles that ing something new. Alaska is as much as helping yourself. governed our land. The reasons the land of pioneers. They were The compassion and warmth of behind this are many, but the people who saw the land not as the Alaska way can melt its way excuses are few. rugged rock, but as nuggets of into the coldest of souls, turning To keep the Alaska spirit alive, gold. They dared to push the curmudgeons into community we must grasp again the ideas boundaries, and with cooperation builders, and skeptics into believ­ and the traditions that gave our and togetherness, forged a state ers. Those philosophical roots state its history and implement of mind unlike any other. planted by our forefathers have them into our modern lives. We Initially a way of survival, the grown into trees that wrap their must reflect on the character of Alaska mind-set became a way of limbs around every person who the pioneers who made this place life. Rarely spoken of but always steps foot onto the black soil. what it is today. Those coura­ understood, the simple fact of Sadly, those trees are being geous individuals who took the inhabiting the same unforgiving cut down. As Alaska takes on the first steps and made the trail for land meant something signifi­ fast-paced, developing attitude of everyone to follow. They created cant. It meant carrying the help­ Outside, the morals and values of the Alaska spirit. It's up to true less out when they were stuck, or the true Alaskan are losing their Alaskans to keep it alive. offering the hungry a seat at your importance. No longer is the way

31 True North

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Thank You

The staff at Tme North would like to thank the people) businesses and in­ stitutions without whose generosity this year)s magazine would not have been possible, Some have supported the True North for years) and we cadt thank you enough,

Eve Bagwell Eric Teela UAA College of Health red bradley Roger Wakelam and Social Welfare Glen Coulson Alaska Railroad UAA Department Jeremy Fortner Camai of Journalism Leonid Grinberg Conoco Phillips and Public Audrey Jo Malone Denali Alaskan Federal Communications Fred Pearce Credit Union Pen Air Lee Post Hasco Inc. Sugar Shack Espresso Kevin Powell The Northern Ught Wells Fargo Jeri Rubin UAA Advancement Erin Nesheim Toby Schwoerer UAA Alumni Sean Cahoon

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School of Social Work Bachelor of Social Work Minor, Social Welfare Studies Master of Social Work Minor, Gerontology Graduate certification in Clinical Social Work Graduate certification in Social Work Management

School of Nursing Certificate, Practical Nursing Associate ofApplied Science, Nursing Associate ofApplied Science, Nursing (Licensed Practical Nurse Option) Bachelor of Science, Nursing Science RN Bachelor of Science, Nursing Science (AAS RN option) Master of Science, Nursing Science Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Justice Center Bachelor ofArts, Justice Certificate, Paralegal Studies Alaska Justice Statistical Analysis Center Crime Mapping Center

Human Services Associate ofApplied Science, Human Services Bachelor of Human Services Minor, Addiction Studies Certificate, Conflict Resolution

Center for Human Development CHD partners with Prince William Sound Community College (PWSCC) to offer a distance delivered certificate and AAS degree in disability services. Interdisciplinary internships and assistantships are available for students. CHD also offers a variety of training opportunities for community members.

Department of Health Sciences Bachelor of Science, Health Science (Physician Assistant) Master of Public Health, Public Health Practice

Institute of Circumpolar Health Studies Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies