Unforgettable.

This is the last episode in the Voices of the Mat-Su podcast series. In it, we turn the tables and interview Emily Forstner about her experience as producer of the series in this final show.

Peter House from Deep Tree talks with Mike Chmielewski about current cybersecurity threats.

The good news is that ransomware events are down in the first half of the year in Alaska, however attacks expected to increase later in the year. Mike asked about the news from Mexico that there were 40.6 billion attacks in the first half of 2025. Peter explained that while the number seems extremely large, it is due to an automated system attack. Mike and Peter also discussed e-SIM cards, which people are using for travel, and how safe they really are.

Lee Henrikson interviews Esther Pitts, the new President and CEO of the Mat-Su Health Foundation.

Esther shared her vision for the Foundation with Lee. Her role as Chief Community Impact Officer of the Foundation deepened her understanding of its role in the community. This will serve her well in her new role as President and CEO.

Emily Forstner interviews School Superintendent Dr. Randy Trani for Inside the District.

“Every student counts” for more than one reason. Emily and Superintendent Dr. Trani discuss how the district makes attempts to estimate the number of students per year and school, and how this affects funding, staffing, and so much more. Dr. Trani explained that the Mat-Su district is a magnet school district because parents can choose where their children go to school and how their students are taught. It can be a multitude of ways, from full-time brick and mortar, to hybrid, or correspondence school.

Bryce Wrigley from the Alaska Flour Company joins host Ken Hoffman to talk about his journey as a farmer and business owner in Alaska. Bryce and his family started farming in Delta Junction in 1983.

Raising barley caught their attention because it fits the growing season so well here in Alaska. Bryce feels his mission as a farmer is to find ways to ensure food security in Alaska, especially in the case of a disaster. In 2011, the Alaska Flour Company was founded, and it is the only commercial flour mill in Alaska. The mill produces a long line of barley products. Their products are available online at alaskaflour.com or in many local stores, including Three Bears and Carrs, Natural Pantry, and many others.

Beacon Hill Family Coach Supervisor Michelle Reynolds joins Mike Chmielewski on Valley Edition.

Michelle talks about how Beacon Hill surrounds families in crisis with a caring, compassionate community. There are many programs under the umbrella of Beacon Hill. Safe Families for Children is the branch that she supervises. Safe Families tries to help families before they become involved in the system.

If you, a family member, or a friend needs help, please call 907-222-0925 or visit their website at beaconhillak.com.

Mike Chmeilewski talks to award-winning novelist Juliette Fay about her new book, The Harvey Girls.

This novel is based on the real Harvey Girls who were waitresses who served in America’s first hospitality chain on the Santa Fe railroad. The story centers on Charlotte Crowninshield and Billie MacTavish who share three things: a room, a heartfelt dislike of each other… and each has a secret that will undoubtedly get her fired.

Palmer Golf Course Manager George Collum joins Mike Chmielewski on Inside the City.

George has worked at the Palmer Golf Course for 25 years. George and Mike reminisced about when the course opened. George also described how the increased popularity of golf has added to the economy of Palmer. They discussed the need for long term planning to keep the golf course since parts of it are actually dedicated to airport activities.

The Mosesian family, owners of Bell’s Nursery, is the Alaska Farm Family of the Year. Mike Mosesian, who started Bell’s Nursery in 1976, joins host Ken Hoffman on Ag Matters.

The story of the Mosesian family, as Mike tells it, starts with a visit to his in-laws in Anchorage, and while grocery shopping, he couldn’t find a decent tomato. Armed with a master’s degree in viticulture, Mike started building greenhouses and growing tomatoes. Bell’s Nursery has grown to three locations. Don’t forget to try the tomatoes that started it all.

Palmer Library Director Joy Bailey and Library Services Coordinator Seina Bell join Mike Chmielewski on Inside the City.

The library has been at the interim site for two years now and has been creative in its activities and use of space. Touch-a-Truck contest, craft clubs, and a silent book club have all been popular this year. The library staff also wishes to thank the numerous businesses and volunteers that make all these programs possible, with a special thanks to the Friends of the Library for all they do.