Peek at the Past

Here's what made the news 20 years ago, from the Jan. 3, 1992, Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman:

Plan could cut port pie

It's an old idea, but still a good one, according to port pushers. The idea is that to benefit the economy of all southcentral Alaska, a state study should address a way for seaport communities to cut a deal to get a slice of freight action for each port so that freight will be moved with maximum efficiency and profit. "We need to look at it as a regional partnership approach and not try to sabotage each other," said Mat-Su Borough Manager Don Moore. "Unfortunately, we're almost done with the economics and now we have the politics to deal with."

Dairy closed to farmers' offers

Not able to reach a consensus on any of seven proposals to run the former James farm when the lease expired, a committee at the Division of Agriculture has decided unanimously to shut down the farm and dispose of the cows. During the past weekend, the division treated cattle to food, bedding and equipment repairs in a move by the state to cover its assets at the Nelson Farm. The work is being done partially in response to an investigation by borough animal control that resulted in reports verifying the condition and care of the animals violated borough statutes against cruel and inhumane treatment. The state will allow the Nelson family to stay at the farm through the end of the month. Nelson has maintained throughout the saga that he was stuck by the state with unfulfilled promises, bad equipment, and sick cows.

Fewer hours for Valley Crisis Line

The Mat-Su Crisis Line, a program of Life Quest Comprehensive Mental Health Services has become the victim of reduced funding. The "Crisis Line," as most Valley residents have known the service, has been in the Valley for over 10 years. Robert Irvine, director, went on to say that this reduced funding will not result in the loss of the program to Valley residents, but will result in the Crisis Line hours being reduced substantially, and the volunteers who respond to the calls will lose their coordinator. Supervision of the Crisis Line will be done by a new Emergency Services Team. Irvine also wanted to reassure Valley teens that the Teen Hotline is unaffected by this change and will continue its service hours.

It cost what?

According to advertisements, in 1992 you could:

• Go see "Star Trek VI" at Mat-Su Cinema for $6.

• Fly round-trip to Hawaii for $259.

• Rent a one-bedroom apartment near the Parks for $400.