Peek at the Past: A look back in Mat-Su's history.

Asit appeared in the Jan. 27, 1972, Frontiersman:

Arkansas City Manager hired as Mat-Su Borough head

The Matanuska-Susitna borough manager position created by voter action last October was filled yesterday, effective March 1, 1972.

Wesley Howe, presently the city manager of Fayetteville, Ark., was hired at a special meeting of the borough assembly on a 3-2 vote.

Voting against the hiring were John Dolenc and Kitty Johnson, although both commented they would cooperate with the new manager.

In discussing the hiring, assemblyman Dolenc said he felt the current manager, who was familiar with local problems, should be retained. He recommended hiring an administrative assistant for the borough office.

Assemblyman Paul Huppert said the criteria for the borough manager position had already been set up, and they had to be followed.

$10 million bond for Point MacKenzie proposed

Favorable borough assembly action is expected tonight on two resolutions designed to push development in the Point MacKenzie area.

The recommendations are an outgrowth of the borough's comprehensive plan compiled in 1969 and are aimed at encouraging development of the locale through private and public funds.

In 1972, editorial cartoons were about the presidential race and how it related to the Vietnam War.

The Willow Winter Carnival was gearing up for next weekend -- much like it is today -- and other big news in the Valley included the ability to dial long-distance calls without an operator's assistance for the first time.

Car dealers were advertising the latest Chevy Impala, while Matanuska Maid Building and Farm Supply advertised their products for farmers looking to start summer projects.

At Parker's, you could buy a men's parka, and a pair of men's coveralls, for $22.95 each, while lug sole boots were $7.77.

You could rent a two-bedroom home in Palmer for around $200 a month, and a one-bedroom apartment with all utilities paid for $140.