Hirshmann gives Valley something to write about

Alaska, the Mat-Su Valley and Wasilla will be on the lips of the nation come Monday. That’s when the U.S. Postal Service dedicates and releases a pair of new 41-cent stamps, one featuring the work of a local photographer.

Mat-Su Valley resident and professional photographer Fred Hirshmann’s stunning image of the Aurora Borealis illuminating a crisp, frigid Alaska landscape is one of two in the Postal Service’s latest release called Polar Lights. The other stamp in the set features the aurora found near the south magnetic pole.

That a local businessman and artist would be so prominently featured on a first-class postage stamp is exciting. That his image is one that speaks of the natural beauty and wonder of Alaska makes us prideful. Selecting his photo is a statement about our state. While we may be on the edge of the final frontier, Hirshmann also shows we also possess talent and expertise.

We’ll be eagerly watching the mailbox to see that first Hirshmann stamp come affixed in the upper right-hand corner.

Don’t let his modest demeanor fool you; Hirshmann works hard to capture his photographs. The one chosen for the Polar Lights set was taken at about 2 a.m. Jan. 17, 2005, at Broad Pass south of Cantwell. Hirshmann remembers it was perfect weather to observe the Aurora Borealis — -34 degrees and clear. He spent the night out in the frigid air to photograph the event.

We often use this space as part of the newspaper’s role as a community watchdog. We try to apply common sense to the issues that leave many incensed. We accept the challenge to lend our voice to the community and will continue to do so. It’s also refreshing at times to reflect on those who makes our Valley proud.

Hirshmann is one such individual. Kudos for Hirshmann, and kudos for Wasilla, which plays host to Monday’s dedication ceremony, 11 a.m. at the Public Safety Building.