Editorial: Bury Holtan Hills
By Soren Wuerth
TNews Editor
Once again, a short-sighted and terrible land use plan comes marching in from a few Anchorage personalities.
And, once again, it must be stopped.
The idea to level a significant chunk of Girdwood rainforest for an ugly eye-sore of subdivisions, many more times larger than "Cabana Land", caught all of us off-guard a year ago.
The plan came from nowhere--a small group of selected "investors"--and was unanimously rejected at every public meeting, in surveys, through hours and hours of testimony, and by our local Land Use Committee and Girdwood Board of Supervisors.
And it wasn't just Girdwoodians who were abhorrent to Holtan Hills. When local volunteers fanned across Anchorage to speak at community councils, the idea was ridiculed. Girdwood was supported by resolutions from 20 community councils.
Read more of the editorial. at:
https://www.turnagainnews.org/articles/editorial-bury-holtan-hills
Opinion: It’s past time to reimagine Anchorage’s Heritage Land Bank
By Jennifer Wingard
It’s back. Certain Assembly members recently revived a substantial disposal of the Girdwood Valley’s most developable lands, the Holtan Hills parcels. The debate the disposal caused last year has been characterized by a vociferous few as local “NIMBYs” blocking affordable housing. It’s time to put that fable to rest. The project’s supporters claimed that its lowest-price condos in the first 60-acre phase would start at $500,000, an estimate that was either poorly researched or deliberately misleading. Actual comparisons for similar condos in the area were at least a quarter of a million dollars higher then, and now exceed $800,000.
Read more of the Opinion at:
https://www.turnagainnews.org/articles/opinion-its-past-time-to-reimagine-anchorages-heritage-land-bank
Opinion: Navigating Workforce Housing Challenges: The brief contemplation of Girdwood’s Soccer Field
By Brooke Lavender
In the quest for suitable spaces to address the pressing need for workforce housing, the Girdwood Housing and Economic Group found itself contemplating an unexpected location-the soccer field near Moose Meadows. Nestled in an area endowed with utility access, a flat terrain, and proximity to public transportation, this site emerged as a candidate for affordable housing development.
Recognizing the scarcity of viable locations and the importance of community input, the group explored the possibility, acknowledging that this was merely a discussion. The intention was never to deprive local children of their soccer field, but rather to propose a land swap that would relocate the field near the park and softball area. The idea was discussed several times at the GHEC meeting which is a public meeting that occurs monthly. All community members are encouraged and invited to come and collaborate.
Despite the group's altruistic efforts, some community members directed harsh criticism towards the volunteer committee, which I will add that I am a part of, that dedicate a lot of their time (for free!) to enhance the community. This underscores the challenges faced by those striving to address housing issues, and the need for constructive dialogue and participation in shaping a better future for all.
Read the entire Opinion at:
https://www.turnagainnews.org/articles/opinion-navigating-workforce-housing-challenges
Public Hearing for Holtan Hills Scheduled for Jan. 9 and 23
By David Nyman
TNews Contributor
Anchorage Assembly Chair Chris Constant and co-Chair Meg Zaletel announced public hearing dates for the controversial Holtan Hills real estate transaction on Jan. 9 and 23.
The press release is as follows:
"Assembly Vice Chair Meg Zaletel introduced a new proposal to dispose Heritage Land Bank (HLB) property in Girdwood to CY Investments for a multi-use residential development, “Holtan Hills," at the December 19 Regular Assembly Meeting. The new version would require the developer to designate a multifamily unit to a future Girdwood housing trust or non-profit entity and the(n) engage the Girdwood Board of Supervisors throughout the project."
Opinion: Holton Hills real estate deal brings in the New Year
By David Nyman
On Dec. 19, Meg Zaletel, co-chair of the Anchorage Assembly, “laid on the table” a new ordinance which brings back to life a widely panned land transaction known as “Holtan Hills”.
The motion allows an item "laid on the table" to be taken as a motion to amend the current agenda. This procedure does not require advance public notice unless you know enough to call the city clerk. Typically, the motion is not in the public record until the meeting packet is published on the day of the Assembly meeting or just prior.
An important aspect of the ordinance is that it is entirely new. All the testimony by the public, the Girdwood Land Use Committee (LUC) and Girdwood Board of Supervisors (GBOS)--in the eyes of the Assembly and, especially, new Assembly members--is not part of the record of this new, but very similar ordinance.
Given this, the written testimony and public testimony from hundreds of folks, many of whom showed up at Assembly chambers prior to 2022 and 2023 public testimony, will not be part of the public record for the hearing scheduled for Jan. 9. This appears to be an attempt to sideline the hard work, correspondence and opinions of Girdwood.
More of the opinion is at:
Lights Galore for Annual Solstice Ski
By Soren Wuerth
TNews Editor
Ringing in the shortest day of the year--or longest night--nordic revelers once again threw down at the trailhead for the 5K loop for the annual Solstice Light Ski, with festivities that offered soup, cinnamon buns, coffee and hot chocolate to bundled participants.
The Girdwood Nordic Ski Club's event drew anywhere from 100 to 200 people, judging from a line of cars stretching along Ahlberg from the 5K lot nearly to Alyeska Resort's hotel.
A woman from Fairbanks who wore a Christmas Tree of lights atop her helmet said she was an introvert and this was a chance to express herself in a social setting.
Many were light-bedecked under a busy hive of rave lights, resort glare, and the glow of moonlight. The 1K loop was lined with ice lanterns and multi-colored LEDs creating a phantasmagorical tunnel of lights for skiers.
Girdwood Nordic Ski Club's team of volunteer groomers is back at it this weekend with fresh tracks laid on Moose Meadow and a groomed 5K.
Every day, now, a little more light.
A little less darkness
A Seward Highway Safety Meeting
The sign-in table for a "safer Seward Highway" meeting held Wednesday in Girdwood was like a merch booth at a music festival.
A representative from HDR, a private environmental consulting firm, handed out Cotopaxi Fanny Packs, blue stress balls, and Nalgene water bottles.
"No, please, take one," said the young woman at the door. "We've got plenty."
Just inside, six pizzas covered a counter and a bowl of candy stood on a table with blank comment sheets and other handouts.
Signs lined both walls displayed maps with sections of the highway (McHugh Creek, Potter Marsh, and so on) highway design options (separated two lane, three and four lanes), breakdown displays of accidents and other informational graphics.
Soon about 20 people sat down while HDR consultants stood at the perimeter of the Community Center room.
Taking turns, four HDR consultants gave an overview that included a timeline, various highway construction alternatives, the purpose for the project, and the safety concerns that prompted what could be a billion-dollar investment.
Read the entire story at:
https://www.turnagainnews.org/articles/a-seward-highway-safety-meeting
Town’s new ski tuner is a Robot
As Girdwood and the Turnagain Arm gets slammed by another early season storm, many of us turn our thoughts to breaking out our snowboards and skis and tuning our rides.
Whether conditions are wet and deep or thin and icy, we all know a little love towards our equipment can jump start the season and give us the edge we need to rally like a pro.
Two local shops serve skiers and riders, Powder Hound and Alyeska Resort's tuning shop in the Daylodge, coined "Alyeska Ski Service" by its techs.
The head technicians at each location are recognized locals, highly qualified and, coincidentally, tuned skis for separate ski shops in Park City, Utah at one point. Both shops are gaining better equipment, which, for skiers and riders, means boards with sharper edges, smoother glide and conditioned bases. It also means faster turn-around for tuning.
Local Girdwood ski shop, Powder Hound, has brought rarely-available technology.
Introducing ... The Reichmann Slope Master Ski Tuning Machine.
Read the entire story by clicking the headline or at:
https://www.turnagainnews.org/articles/towns-new-ski-tuner-is-a-robot
https://www.turnagainnews.org/articles/towns-new-ski-tuner-is-a-robot
Slopes Success: Lessons propel winter sports enthusiasts to new heights
With the snowfall and on the brink of the thrilling world of winter sports, enthusiasts from Southcentral Alaska have the opportunity for skill enhancement through structured lessons at Alyeska Resort.
As Alyeska Resort staff gear up for the winter season, the demand for lessons is expected to soar. Whether carving down beginner trails or conquering advanced slopes, enthusiasts are increasingly recognizing the pivotal role of structured instruction in unlocking their full skiing or snowboarding potential.
Read the entire story by clicking the headline or at:
Planning Maps Stir Controversy
On a mid-week night in early October, a young couple left the Girdwood School after sitting through two hours of presentations laying out options for the community's future.
They moved to Girdwood a little over a year ago, have decent jobs and are outdoorsy. They just want a home to buy.
They said they were frustrated with all the zoning and planning planning particulars, but, also with what they see as a contradiction between a call for affordable housing and resistance to development proximal to existing homes.
Bear Escapes Apparent Shooting in Girdwood
Alayna DuPont set an alarm for 3:30 a.m. to wake up early Friday morning for bear patrol.
At 2:15 a.m. a string of gunshots woke her instead.
The report came from a parking lot near Alyeska's Sitzmark bar where a brown bear had knocked over a dumpster 24 hours earlier. She quickly texted her contact with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. No response.
GCVA hosts show featuring Anchorage Clay Arts Guild
The Girdwood Center for Visual Arts hosted the Anchorage Clay Arts Guild on the evening of Oct.7 in a well-attended community opening reception titled “Thrown Together” featuring pottery works of art from numerous local artists.
Girdwood hosts Homer Police forum on ‘Parenting in the Digital Age’
On a recent Friday evening in Girdwood, a much anticipated guest speaker came to Girdwood thanks to outreach and support from the Public Safety Advisory Committee and Girdwood Board of Supervisors. Lieutenant Ryan Browning of the Homer Police Department engaged parents and youth in a frank conversation about the real life risks of youth social media usage, cyberbullying, sexting.
Lt. Browning’s time as a police officer, and personal experience as a father of two teens himself, inspired him to create his two hour presentation “Parenting in the Digital Age.” Over the last year Browning has traveled all over the state of Alaska sharing his thoughtful, engaging, and at times provocative, two hour program with the goal of helping parents and teens open up a dialogue about what they’re seeing and experiencing online.
Sold Out Girdwood Trails Marathon held Saturday; brings new record, and inspiring stories
The sixth annual Girdwood Trails Marathon was held Saturday, Oct. 7 starting from the Alyeska Daylodge and travels through some of the most amazing meandering trails in Girdwood.
This sold-out event included a full marathon, a half marathon, and a juniors half marathon. In total, 193 participants, including 62 full marathon, and 131 half marathon particpants, from all around Alaska. This included 26 locals and 14 runners from other states, who ran the “marathon loop” in the Girdwood Valley.
Girdwood's Ava Earl Releases New Album, Helps Power Northwestern U. Running Team
In fourth grade at Girdwood Elementary, Ava Earl had to write a self-reflection on her school performance: "What are you good at? What are your weaknesses?"
Assessing her strengths wouldn't be hard, she was an exemplary student, star runner and already showed a proclivity in music.
But there was one thing she scolded herself on, something that could cause her teachers' "mild frustration", and something, as it would turn out, for which women are typically chided for more than men.
Talking--being--too much.
That accusation became the title of Earl's latest album, her fourth, released Sept. 15
Alyeska Unveils Expansion Plans at Town Hall
Alyeska Resort's owners laid out a sweeping vision for Girdwood's upper valley Thursday night, one of a "village", parking lots, recreational facilities, a conference center, a daycare center and other amenities.
About 150 people attended the meeting which was billed as a "town hall" meeting held amid platefuls of cookies and snacks in the weathered Sitzmark Bar, with its indigo paisley stained glass ceiling and worn, burnished booths.
Girdwood Trails Committee applies for grant; seeks public comments
Girdwood Trails Committee applies for Recreational Trails Grant Funds to repair trail and is seeking public comment.
Girdwood community resilience challenge begins
This fall as you begin to prepare for winter and winter recreation, let’s also prepare for emergencies. Having worked over 20 years in emergency services, a common theme is that disasters never happen when you are ready for them, but preparing for them mentally and with some planning can make them a better experience.
Hotel and Hardware Store Only a Pipe Dream, Says Developer
Rumors that a hotel and hardware store will sprout up near Girdwood Brewing Company are "crystal ball stuff”, says local developer Tim Cabana.
Girdwood Fire and Rescue gets new crash extrication equipment
The Girdwood Fire Department was amongst several fire departments to receive life-saving rescue tools aiding first responders in expediting the extrication of crash victims.