Peek at the Past

Here’s what made news 22 years ago, from the March 21, 1990, edition of the Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman:

Port commission cuts budget

The port division of the Mat-Su Borough will begin fiscal year 1991 with a smaller budget, more pedestrian expectations and minus one embattled staff member. The port commission passed a resolution directing that no marine construction be considered at this time and accepting two consultant studies as a “reasonable guideline for future actions.” In the resolution, which was prepared by commissioner Jim Palin, the commission continues to support the port project on a long-term basis. The resolution lists areas to be explored this fiscal year, including cooperation with the Port of Anchorage. During the budget process, the commission revealed that a position of port development specialist will be eliminated at the end of the fiscal year.

Legislature to decide fate of coal cars

Negotiations continue in Juneau on whether to appropriate $9 million to buy a train for the Wishbone Hill coal project. In the Valley, more than 200 jobs hang in the balance. State Rep. Ron Larson said he worked with the Alaska Railroad board of directors and leadership of the Alaska Senate on an agreement that would see the state purchase a train to carry coal from Wishbone Hill. State Rep. Fran Ulmer has said the project should stand on its own without state assistance.

Flagpoles left bare by thieves

Flagpoles around Palmer are looking bare these days as an apparent flag thief makes his or her rounds. Two Alaska State flags and two United States flags have been nabbed in recent weeks from very public establishments in the city. According to the court’s deputy clerk, the rope holding the flags had been cut and the banners taken when he came to work early last month. Last week, the bandit struck again, this time taking the flags in front of the Palmer Police Department. The investigation is on going.

It cost what?

According to advertisements, in 1990 you could:

• Fly to Seattle for $169.

• Rent a 1,600-square-foot lakefront home in Wasilla for $600 a month.

• Enjoy bacon, eggs, hash browns and toast at Frontier Café for $1.99.