PEEK AT THE PAST: Aug. 9 and 23, 1962

Here’s what made news 49 years ago from the Aug. 9 and 23, 1962, issues of The Frontiersman.

Straight party voting mandatory

Overall, 19 names will appear on the Aug. 14 primary election ballot, 13 Democrats and 16 Republicans. The candidates are seeking election for state offices.

Because this is a primary election, straight party voting is mandatory and voters are warned that if they vote for candidates on more than one party ticket, those ballots will be rejected.

Call them direct

The Palmer Police Department now has its own telephone number. The department had formerly shared a telephone with Palmer City Hall.

Mat Maid is born

The Matanuska Valley Farmers Cooperating Association passed into history Saturday when members of the cooperative voted to officially change the name of the organization to Matanuska Maid Inc. The MVFCA had been in existence since 1936, as had its trade name, Matanuska Maid. The decision to go with Matanuska Maid was made to capitalize on the trade name, officials said.

It cost what?

According to advertisements in The Frontiersman, in August 1962 you could:

• Buy assorted flavors of Jell-O for 10 cents a box.

• Get eight ears of corn for $1.

• Keep the baby fed with 10 cans of baby food for $1.

• Stock up on short ribs, three pounds for $1 at Houston Market.