The Valley Balla-Dears: "Lest we Forget"

Bio

Born in the territory of Alaska in 1953, watched it become a state in 1959, felt and lived through the 1964 earthquake. I saw the first man walk on the moon, survived and lived in the 1971 "Butte" flood area, fought and lived in the 1996 Miller's Reach Big Lake Fire area.

In 1970, Scott Hollembaek and I wanted our own snowmobile race in the Butte, the result was starting (with the help of our parents) The Mat-Su Motormushers Club. I Won its first race, 2 years in a row (The Palmer Classic) (1971-72). Was listed in Who's Who of Alaska in 1971 for a feat in the Wasilla 20 Grand Prix snowmobile race. I finished in the top 3, all 3 were teenagers. This was the first time ever teenagers swept the podium.

In 1984, I helped form and became the first elected President of The Alaska State Snowmobile Association. In 1986, as President, helped to form the Hatchers Pass Management Area, allowing snowmobiles in most areas.

In 1990, co-built the Big Lake multi-use trail system in the Big Lake area.

Won the coveted Bob Grosse Community Service award for it in 1992, (along with co-builder Doug Fisher).

In 1985-87 was Tech Director for the Iron Dog Race

In 1988-89 was Race Director for The Iron Dog Race, but after nearly dieing in the mountains flying and staying ahead of the racers I quit, and became just a vollunteer for flagman on the trails outside of Big Lake. In 2002 was part of the Palmer Hay Flats management team, keeping a multi-use corridor provided, from the Anchorage Borough border to the Knik area, across the Palmer Hay Flats for future trail plans linking the 2 areas.

Also successful in getting electric motors allowed on Wasilla Creek during silver salmon fishing season, to allow handicapped the opportunity to get to where the fish are at without paddling.

I had been in the snowmobile industry since 1968, and considered by many to be "The Father of Recreational Snowmobiling" in the Mat-Su area. Owned my own snowmobile business from 1994 to 2010.

Did a radio trail report weekly, and reported races for both KMBQ and KAYO local radio stations.

Wrote and recorded the theme song for KAYO Country Legends 100.9 F.M.

Was President of Big Lakes Fire Service Board for 2 years, as well as on the Big Lake road service board for years.

The Valley Balla-Dears

Friday, December 24, 2010

"Lest we Forget"

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