Outdoors landmark packing it up

Many were surprised and a little saddened this past week to learn Outdoors and More Sporting Goods is closing its doors.

One of the best examples of how a locally owned neighborhood business should operate, Outdoors and More will be missed. Since purchasing the landmark store four years ago after 19 years of operation, owner Jerry Holbrook and staff always greeted customers with a smile, knowledge and just the right amount of timely outdoors gossip that made customers feel right at home. It’s this personal, caring service that is prevalent in locally owned Valley businesses and what sets them apart from their big box competitors.

No, Holbrook isn’t being forced out of business by the pending opening of the giant Sportsman’s Warehouse under construction in Wasilla along the Parks Highway. He originally bought the business with plans to sell it, but those plans never panned out, Holbrook said. He began planning the closure in April.

We understand the protective sentiment expressed by loyal customer Sid McCausland, a Butte resident who’s shopped at the outdoors retailer for two decades. “We’re going to block the doors and organize a sit-in.”

We’ll simply wish Holbrook well and look forward to his popular Outdoors and More booth at the Alaska State Fair, which he says will continue to thrive.

Vote on Tuesday, and don’t wait until Wednesday for results

We also remind Mat-Su Borough residents the importance voting Tuesday, which is Election Day in the Borough. In addition to the contentious Borough Prop. 1, there are 28 candidates seeking office at the Borough and local levels.

While many call odd-year elections “off” years, there’s nothing off-putting about voting. The Mat-Su Valley is blessed to have many caring, passionate residents who take a genuine interest in local politics and issues. Tuesday is the time to back up that passion by voting.

Don’t wait until Wednesday morning to learn who has been elected and whether local propositions passed or failed. As the polls close Election Day, visit the Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman online often for the latest results and coverage at www.frontiersman.com.