Homer Alaska - Letters

Dear Jesse Clutts (president of the Anchor Point Chamber of Commerce) and chamber members,

Yearly the Anchor Point Chamber of Commerce recognizes outstanding businesses and community members at a lovely evening dinner event. I have had the privilege of attending these award dinners over the past eight or nine years, and always admired how the community says thanks to their own — be it students, businesses or individuals.

Recently the chamber very graciously bestowed on me an honor I was not expecting. The Golden Deed Award has, I believe, always gone to a special Anchor Pointer. I was therefore most surprised and deeply honored as the 2009 recipient.

As I tried to say that evening (and I thought of a lot of things I should have said as I was driving home,) Anchor Point is unique in its ability to form groups to support the needs of the greater community. As examples: the senior center, Helping Hands, senior housing, the public library, water and sewer systems for the central area including the school, the volunteer fire and EMS, etc. When you look at all the community accomplishments, it is quite incredible for a nonorganized community to do so much.

And I think the reason is that Anchor Point is like a big family. You work and play together, you resolve differences, and are there for each other.

The chamber is a reflection of that. Yes, it represents the business community of Anchor Point, but also the general community, and through your informative meetings, you inform the entire Southern Peninsula.

That you honored me as you did, was truly, truly humbling.

When all is said and done, it was my pleasure to have served you. Thank you.

Milli Martin