The Must Read Alaska Show

John Hillyer: From Fighter Pilot to House District 8 Candidate

In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews John Hillyer, a retired veteran U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, as he enters the race for Alaska's House District 8. Hillyer, who has spent 32 years in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve, shares his motivations for running, his key priorities if elected, and what distinguishes him from other candidates. 
 

Edna DeVries: Why She's Running Again for Mat-Su Borough Mayor

In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Mayor Edna DeVries, the current Mayor of Mat-Su Borough, to discuss her decision to run for re-election. Edna shares her motivations for seeking another term, outlines her key priorities if re-elected, and explains what sets her apart from the other candidates in the race.
Tune in to hear an in-depth conversation about the future of Mat-Su Borough and why Edna believes she’s the right choice to continue leading the community.
Check out her website here: http://www.ednadevries.com/ 

Candidate Spotlight: Janice Park for State Senate District F

In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews Janice Park, candidate for State Senate District F. Janice shares why she is running, what she stands for, and what sets her apart from her opponents.
She also discusses her plans to address key issues for Alaskans and how people can get in touch with her campaign. Janice has a background in public health, co-founded Alaska Water Systems, and has lived in Abbott Loop for over 20 years.

Candidate Spotlight: Jeremy Bynum for Alaska State House District 1

 
In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews Jeremy Bynum, candidate for Alaska State House District 1. Jeremy discusses why he is running for State Representative, his key priorities, and what sets him apart from his opponents. With experience as an elected assembly member on the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly, Jeremy shares how his background has prepared him for this role and his vision for the future of Southern Southeast Alaska. Tune in to hear more about his plans and how you can get involved with his campaign.

Meet the New CEO: Gretchen Guess on Leading the Rasmuson Foundation

In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick interviews Gretchen Guess, the new President and CEO of Rasmuson Foundation. Gretchen shares insights on how her previous roles as an elected official in Alaska, including serving as a member of the state legislature and president of the Anchorage School Board, have prepared her for this leadership position.
Gretchen discusses the vital role Rasmuson Foundation plays in Alaska, supporting communities through grant programs and initiatives since its founding in 1955. She explains the Foundation's mission to empower Alaskans to help each other and highlights its historical significance, rooted in the legacy of Swedish immigrants Jenny Olson and Edward Anton Rasmuson.
The conversation delves into Gretchen's efforts to make the Foundation more accessible to people across Alaska, ensuring that its benefits reach diverse communities statewide. She also shares what excites her most about the Foundation's future and her vision for fostering thriving cultures and communities throughout Alaska. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the impact and aspirations of Rasmuson Foundation under Gretchen's leadership.
Check them out here: https://rasmuson.org/ 

Rick Whitbeck: Energy, Politics, and Alaska’s Future

In this episode of The Must Read Alaska Show, host John Quick sits down with Rick Whitbeck, State Director for Power The Future, to discuss the impact of the Biden administration on Alaska, the state of Cook Inlet energy, the implications of the Chevron's decision and whether Rick is hopeful for Alaska's future.
With a 35-year career in Alaska, Rick brings a wealth of experience from managing political campaigns and hosting the Power The Future Energy Hour radio program. Tune in for an engaging conversation on Alaska's critical issues.

Navigating Alaska’s Future: A Conversation with Senator Matt Claman

Host John Quick welcomes Senator Matt Claman to The Must Read Alaska Show as part of our Candidate Spotlight Forum. Senator Claman, who has served West Anchorage in the Alaska State Senate since 2023 and previously in the State House, discusses his campaign for re-election and his top priorities. In this episode, he outlines his focus on improving public safety, managing the state budget, and protecting constitutional rights.  Matt shares his approach to collaboration and his vision for Alaska’s future.
Tune in to learn about his goals, how to connect with his office, and his perspective on the state’s path ahead. This forum features candidates from across Alaska, regardless of political affiliation, offering a comprehensive look at those shaping our state’s future.
Check out his website here: https://www.mattclaman.com/about-matt

Anchorage's Transition Team: Joelle Hall's Perspective

In this episode of the Must Read Alaska Show, your host John Quick sits down with Joelle Hall, President of the Alaska AFL-CIO and a key member of Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance's transition team. Join us as we delve into the roles and responsibilities of the transition team focused on good government, safe streets and trails, and building our future. Joelle shares details about the team's meetings, the collaborative process of developing actionable recommendations for the new mayor, and the importance of workforce and economic development in Anchorage. Despite being a strong supporter, donor, and friend of former Mayor Dave Bronson, Host John Quick emphasizes the significance of respectful engagement and collaboration with the new administration. Tune in to learn how you can contribute to shaping the future of Anchorage, even if you didn't vote for the new mayor.
Reach out to the new Mayor here: https://www.muni.org/Departments/Mayor/Pages/default.aspx