It has been a busy summer here at United Way of Mat-Su. Our annual Dinner with the Seahawks and Play60 Challenge events ushered in the season.

Contributed by Marilyn Bennett -
This Spring we put the birdbath back out on the deck right next to the bird feeder. Those silly birds continued to ignore our wonderful creation.

Contributed by Nancy Hall -
Eighteen-year-old British citizen, Oliver Plunket went on a quest to raise funds for the UK Fisher House. As an inexperienced motorcycle rider, he bought a Yamaha XT60Z. Starting in Ushuaia, Argentina, he rode 24,000 miles to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. It took him eight months with his goal of raising 100,000 pounds.

Contributed by Linda Myers-Steele -
The classes are free of charge. WASI (Wasilla Area Seniors Inc.) is kindly hosting the classes and the instructors volunteer their time.

Contributed by Charice Chambers -
Though law and order was his passion, Boatright also had a softer side: he loved the arts. For many years he dabbled in painting, acrylic work being one of his favorite mediums. He also began making jewelry in concert with several police colleagues.

Contributed by Angie Lewis -
These girls will be getting spayed, microchipped, and are vaccinated. They have wonderful personalities and are anxious to join a new family.

Contributed by Angie Lewis, President of Alaska Animal Advocates -
More and more veterinarians are opting out of cropping and docking ears and tails, although the United States is lagging behind Europe and Australia. Love your dog the way she was meant to look and forego these unnecessary procedures.

Contributed by Mike Dryden -
So, just to be fair, I have researched the available databases for some area in which the VA excels and have found one. The VA leads the nation in reporting names (veterans) to the ATF’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) which brands a veteran as a criminal for owning, buying or transporting a firearm to include ammo.

Contributed by Taylor Jordan -
Alaska authors have a special spot in our hearts, and we host them exclusively. We even have a wall of fame in the hallway to commemorate them! Our wall showcases 18 authors since opening May 5th, 2018.

Contributed by Debra McGhan -
“People think that fitness equals health,” says Reynolds. “They think that if you can swim, lift weights or run, that you’re healthy. But fitness doesn’t mean health. It only means that your body is ready for duty. What that duty is depends on the person and the regiment of fitness they have been pursuing.”

Contributed by Vic Kohring -
When first sizing up someone and looking into their eyes, I seem to have an uncanny ability to determine within seconds if they are genuine and credible. I often sense an aura through a combination of tone of voice, body language, and overall attitude.

Contributed by Wes Keller -
American Constitutionalism presumes religion as Webster defines. While this explains the passion of some a-religious believers in a “living constitution” (adaptable morals) to resist originalism, it is also the explanation of why our laws endorse our national motto: In God we Trust.

Contributed by Rabbi Mendy Greenberg -
Guests to the booth will enjoy a complimentary peek at the current exhibits viewing at the Alaska Jewish Historical Museum, including the popular “On the Wings of Eagles: Alaska’s Contribution to Operation Magic Carpet” exhibition detailing Alaska Airline’s refugee rescue mission in Yemen.

Contributed by Jessica Wright -
Some argue if they don’t give in and let the legislature take their 50% PFD share, they might not be able to keep their current benefits. In this case, I would advise you to think in the long term. Do you want to keep the goose and have a golden egg daily or do you just want to kill the goose?

Contributed by Joe Ford -
I've read there's one bush plane for every 60 people populating this state. From my camp on the Matanuska River I've endured the noise of about 100,000 citizens worth of planes so far this summer. My friend Wayne informs me those bush planes aren't licensed.

Contributed by Bonnye Matthews -
Recipients from across the country will receive awards for excellence in communications. A distinguished group of professional journalists, communications specialists and educators judged nearly 2,000 entries in a wide variety of categories.

Contributed by Carolyn Porter -
If anyone is interested in working with friendly, conservative Republicans for the good of Alaska, we welcome you. Our next monthly meeting is Saturday, September 21, at 10:00 am. We will meet at Sunrise Grill in Palmer.