National seniors’ group trying to grow Alaska chapter

WASILLA — Keeping up with an ever increasing speed of socio-political change can be a challenge for seniors living in this era. With the world changing around them so fast, some elderly Alaskans may feel like they want to voice their opinions and advocate for matters that concern them most, but to do that they need an outlet.

The national program, Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) was founded to politically advocate for seniors and also attempt to accommodate their needs with varying services and support. The program started in 2007 and eventually made its way up to Alaska. President of the AMAC Alaska Chapter, Mike Coons, is leading the way for AMAC presence in Alaska. The Alaska Chapter’s first meeting was back in November. Coons rallied a collection of seniors with monthly meetings underway.

“AMAC is alive and well in Alaska,” Coons said.

Over 80 people attended the first meeting in November and about 30 showed up for the second meeting earlier this month. Coons found that Mat-Su Valley seniors had a “strong desire for a solid conservative senior voice organization.” Some individuals of note who’ve attended the Alaskan AMAC meetings include Sen. Shelley Hughes and Andy Evans, Chief of Staff for Representative DeLena Johnson. Coons said that those two briefly discussed upcoming legislation and how that will impact the senior population.

“As chapter supporting representatives, they are going to keep us informed, especially when it concerns Alaska's mature citizens,” Coons said.

According to the AMAC website, they offer more than just political advocacy. They provide a number of services for members including, “ travel discounts, competitively priced insurance products, Roadside Assistance, retail and restaurant discounts, and a host of other benefits and savings opportunities in between.”

Those interested in attending the next Alaskan AMAC meeting can hit the next meeting on Jan. 13, 2018. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. and will take place at the Wasilla Senior Center, located at 1301 South Century Circle, Wasilla. It will be in the dining room. After that, the Alaskan AMAC will meet every month on the second Saturday. They will alternate meeting locations and times between the Wasilla Senior Center (1:30 p.m.) and the Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center (11 a.m.).

Coons said they will try to keep meetings within an hour. He also noted that despite some technical difficulties, the meetings will be broadcast online. Those who cannot attend a meeting can view them online by visiting: freeconferencecall.com. Coons is inviting all elderly citizens to participate with him so they can find a way to share their views, ideas, and concerns. He can be reached at mcoons@mtaonline.net. To learn more about the AMAC, visit: www.amac.us

“Remember: The more voices we have, the better impact we have on issues that concerns us, our state and our nation,” Coons said.