MAT-SU SEA HAWKERS

Meeting Minutes

January 16, 2012

7:00 PM

I. Call to order The meeting was called to order on January 16, 2012 at 7:08 pm.

II. Roll call Members

Present: President, Tom Spindler; Vice President, Jon Paul Campbell; Treasurer, Dan Kennedy; Secretary, Peggy Spindler; and At-Large Members, Mike Spindler and Michelle Knittle.

Members Absent: At-Large Member, Rick Allen (excused, work travel).

III. Approval of meeting minutes for – December 14, 2012 Dan Kennedy made a motion to approve the meeting minutes of December 14, 2011. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

IV. Treasurers Report

a) Financial Report Dan Kennedy reported on the Profit & Loss Comparison from January 1 through December 2011, the total income was $35,772.04, and expenses were $26,097.37, and a net income of $9,674.67 Dan Kennedy reported on Balance Sheet Previous Year Comparison as of December 31, 2011, the total Assets were $42,656.66 and the total Liabilities were $4,008.00 and the total Equity $38,646.66 for a total Liabilities & Equity of $42,656.66. Dan Kennedy reported on the Profit & Loss Budget vs. Actual from January 1 through December 2011, the total income was $35,772.04, and expenses were $26,097.37, and a net income of $9,674.67 Dan Kennedy presented the Profit & Loss Budget Overview for January through December 2012, for a total income of $33,950.00 and the total expense of $20,500.00 for a net income of $13,450.00. Dan Kennedy made a motion to approve the Profit & Loss Budget Overview for January through December 2012. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

b) Other No other items to report on.

V. Old Business

a) Annual Sponsorship – Frontiersman Student Athlete of the Year Dan Kennedy made a motion to re-affirm to sponsor annually the Frontiersman Student Athlete of the Year of $500.00. Tom Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

b) MSHF Training Grant $3,142.00 Tom Spindler reported that he has filed the required Sustainability Grant Report with the Mat-Su Health Foundation. Tom Spindler further stated there is $3,142.00 left over from the grant which is to be spent on board training. He communicated to Mat-Su Health Foundation in the Sustainability Grant Report that we intend to expend the remaining funds in the 1st quarter of this year. Dan Kennedy and Peggy Spindler asked if we were obligated to have spent the funds in 2011, or have to refund them. Tom Spindler commented that he saw nothing in writing that suggests such, but he will contact Mat-Su Health Foundation to verify if the Club can proceed to spend the funds on training, or refund the $3,142.00.

c) Gaming Permitee Paperwork Tom Spindler reported that he filed the gaming permitee paperwork with the State of Alaska and it will take about 8 weeks to hear back from the State of Alaska on the status of the permit.

d) Code of Ethics – To be signed; Mike Spindler, Michelle Knittle Tom Spindler reported that Mike Spindler and Michelle Knittle need to read and sign the code of ethics. Mike Spindler had previously signed the code of ethics. Michelle Knittle signed the code of ethics.

e) Board Member Job Description – to be signed; Mike Spindle, Michelle Knittle Tom Spindler reported that Mike Spindler and Michelle Knittle need to read and sign the Board Member Job Description. Mike Spindler and Michelle Knittle both signed the Board Member Job Description.

VI. New Business

a) Membership – 8/135 Tom Spindler reported that 8 members out of 135 members had renewed their 2012 membership. Membership expires December 31 each year. Peggy Spindler will be sending out the annual renewal forms to the membership, before months end.

b) Board Members – Fund Raising Challenge Tom Spindler issued a challenge to all board members, in that he would like to see each Board Member find a means or a resource for raising $500.00 for the Booster Club.

c) Relay for Life Jon Paul Campbell reported that there will be a kick-off meeting on January 24, 2012 at Mat-Su Regional Hospital. The relay for life is scheduled for June 8 and 9, 2012 at Wasilla High School. Jon Paul Campbell will be captain of the team, Mike and Jennifer Spindler will be co-captain.

d) Kodiak Fundraiser – Part 2 Tom Spindler reported that he has been in contact with Mike Flood and has proposed tentative dates, which are subject to change, until confirmed, for the 2012 Alaska visit. The Seahawks will bring 2 Sea Gals cheerleaders, 2 coaches and 2 Seahawks football players for tentatively June 28 to July 3, 2012. June 28 will be hospital visits. June 29 a small fund raiser and healthy activity at AT&T Sports Center, followed by a dinner auction that night in Anchorage. June 30 travel to Kodiak for another dinner auction. The proceeds of these two auctions are to help Kodiak obtain field turf.

e) Review/Update –

Strategic Plan

Tom Spindler reviewed the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers Strategic Plan (Draft v1 3/28/11) Approved – April, 2012. Dan Kennedy suggested that the Super Long-Term Goal (2020) The Mat-Su Borough has an accessible, affordable Indoor Turf Track and Field Facility be tabled for now. This is tabled, as four of the schools received funding for turf. Long Term Goal (2015) Scholarships from the Sea Hawkers are 100% funded by endowment income will remain as is. Short-Term Goals – The Annual Operating Plan (FY 2011 – FY 2012)

Now

"Board to begin developing a "Position Statement/Feasibility Plan" for a new Indoor Track and Facility for the Mat-Su Borough is tabled, for the same reason noted above.

Investigate Establishing a "Mat-Su Sea Hawkers Endowment" at the Alaska Community Foundation is completed. Board to complete initial Board Self Evaluation is completed.

6 – 12 months

Identify, through completion of a Board Recruitment Matrix, prospective board members, and seat at least two new board members by the end of the calendar year is completed. Have an endowment started at the Alaska Community Foundation is completed. Board to develop a Job Description & Commitment Letter for board members, incorporating it into the organization's board culture is completed.

12 – 18 months

Board to actively engage in local Fundraising/Resource Development Training offered by the Foraker Group is not yet completed, but we have until March 2012 to make the deadline. Tom Spindler will send an email for the Board Members to solicit ideas to add to the 0-6, and 6-12 month portion of the Strategic Plan for 2012.

f) Assign for Review/Update – Bylaws Tom Spindler appointed Peggy Spindler to review and update the By-Laws.

g) Assign for Review/Update – Website Tom Spindler appointed Jon Paul Campbell to review and update the website.

h) MYFA donation - $300 Dan Kennedy made a motion to donate $300.00 to MYFA. Michelle Knittle seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

i) POP Warner donation - $500 Tom Spindler made a motion to donate $500 to POP Warner. Michelle Knittle seconded the motion. Dan Kennedy made a motion to amend the previous motion and made a motion to donate $300.00 to POP Warner, to match what is given to MYFA. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

VII. Other Business

a) Donation approved - Flag Football - $1,000 via email – 7/0 Tom Spindler reported that the Board approved the Flag Football donation of $1,000.00. The vote was by email with 7 yes. The email vote was passed unanimously.

b) Donation approved – Night Courts - $500.00 via email 6/1 Tom Spindler reported that the Board approved the Nights Courts donation of $500.00. The vote was by email with 6 yes and 1 abstained. The email vote passed.

c) Donations approved – 2 Girls Comp Basketball - $100.00 x2 = $200.00 via email. Tom Spindler reported that the Board approved the 2 Girls Comp Basketball donation of $100.00 each for $200.00. The vote was by email with 7 yes. The motion passed unanimously.

d) Reimbursement – Picture Frames / Hawker display at Tailgaters - $50.23 – Tom Spindler Dan Kennedy made a motion to reimburse Tom Spindler of $50.23 for the picture frames. Jon Paul seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

e) Reimbursement – Four-Drawer Locking Filing Cabinet - $80.00 – Tom Spindler Dan Kennedy made a motion to reimburse Tom Spindler of $80.00 for the four-drawer locking filing cabinet. Jon Paul seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

f) Reimbursement – Business Cards – President & Secretary - $67.88 – Tom Spindler Dan Kennedy made a motion to reimburse Tom Spindler of $67.88 for the business cards for the President and Secretary. Jon Paul seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

g) Reimbursement – Certified Articles of Incorporation - $15.00 – Tom Spindler Dan Kennedy made a motion to reimburse Tom Spindler of $15.00 for the certified articles of incorporation that was filed with the gaming permit application. Jon Paul seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

h) Reimbursement – Postage for Gaming Permit Application - $6.13 – Tom Spindler Dan Kennedy made a motion to reimburse Tom Spindler of $6.13 for the postage for the gaming permit application. Jon Paul seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

i) Congratulations JP Tom Spindler congratulated Jon Paul Campbell for being selected as the coordinator for Night Courts and the Mentorship Program with Community Sports Inc.

j) Letter of Thanks – Leesa Payne Tom Spindler reported that he mailed a letter of thanks to Leesa Payne for being on the Board the last 2 terms.

VIII. Adjournment Tom Spindler made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:56 pm.

MAT-SU SEA HAWKERS Meeting Minutes

October 28, 2010

6:00 PM

I. Call to order The meeting was called to order at 6:03 pm.

II. Roll call Members

Present: President, Tom Spindler; Vice President, Jon Paul Campbell; Treasurer, Dan Kennedy; Secretary, Peggy Spindler; At-Large Member, Leesa Payne Members

Absent: At-Large Member, Rick Allen

III. Approval of meeting minutes for – August 24, 2010 Dan Kennedy made a motion to approve the meeting minutes of August 24, 2010. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

IV. Treasurers Report

a) Financial Report Dan Kennedy reported on the Profit & Loss Comparison from January through September 2010, the net income was $13,866.64 compared to last year of $11,787.05 and the expenses were $10,551.36 and last year was $4,243.32. The total current assets are $31,233.99.

b) Other Dan Kennedy reported that the Board needs to renew the State of Alaska business license of $100.00.

V. Old Business

a) Mat-Su Multi-Use Sports Dome Update – Dan Kennedy Community Organizer Dan Kennedy made a motion to complete a joint application on pre development of the Multi-Use Sports Dome with the City of Wasilla. Dan Kennedy would initiate the application process. Tom Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

b) Vacant board seat - interim appointment Tom Spindler made a motion to appointment Harvey Wing as an At-Large member to fill the seat vacated by Robert Davey. This appointment will last one year, until the next board elections are conducted. Lessa Payne seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

c) Play 60 – 2011 Tom Spindler reported that he has been in contact with Mike Flood, Seattle Seahawks Vice President and would talk with Stephanie Allen, Mat-Su United Way, regarding a collaborative effort to roll out a Play 60 community event next year in the Valley. Tom Spindler also reported that he would complete a grant application requesting $5,000 to $15,000 through Mat-Su Health Foundation. Any grant funds received would be used to fund expenses associated with conducting the event, as well as having two current and/or retired Seahawk players, a Sea Gal cheerleader, Seahawks mascot Blitz, and Seahawk super-fans Mr. & Mrs. Seahawk attend and to be involved with a Play 60 community day. Dan Kennedy made a motion that Mat-Su Sea Hawkers fund an initial $1000.00 to help start the event fundraising, apply for the grant from Mat-Su Health Foundation, and collaborate with United Way and Community Sports, Inc. regarding a Play60 event. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

VI. New Business

a) Scholarship Fund The proposal to set aside $10,000 in a dedicated scholarship fund through Alaska Community Fund has been tabled without discussion, until next year. Further information is being gathered by Dan Kennedy, Treasurer.

b) 2011 Satellite Chapter Renewal Dan Kennedy made a motion to pay the 2011 Satellite Chapter dues of $100.00. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

c) Donation Request: Fronteras Immersion School – Nov 20 5K Race Prizes Tom Spindler reported that he received a donation request to for prizes for the Fronteras Immerison School 5k race. Mat-Su Sea Hawkers will donate a Shaun Alexander jersey.

d) Auction Item Request: Rotary Auction Tom Spindler reported that he received a donation request for auction items for the Rotary Club. As Mat-Su Sea Hawkers is currently out of autographed items, Tom & Peggy Spindler will make a personal donation of a poker set.

e) Donation Request: Financial Assistance for MYFA 3/4 Jersey Purchase Tom Spindler reported that he received a donation request to help pay a portion for MYFA 3/4 championship jerseys. The Board did approve through email to fund $500.00 toward the team to pay for jerseys. .

f) Funding Request: Community Sports Inc. – Night Courts program Tom Spindler reported that he received a donation request to help fund Night Courts program. Lessa Payne made a motion to help fund $500.00 for 2010 Nights Courts program. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

g) Sponsorship Request – Patrick O'Neill, Alaska Avalanche Tom Spindler reported that he received a donation/sponsorship request from Alaska Avalanche. Tom Spindler recalled that the Alaska Avalanche supported the Mat-Su Sea Hawker charity auction. Dan Kennedy made a motion to donate $250.00 to Alaska Avalanche. Tom Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

h) Restock Sea Hawker give-away items Tom Spindler noted that he had not made the year give-away purchase for 2009/2010 and requested $500.00 to replenish the give-away items. Leesa Payne made a motion of $500.00 to restock the Sea Hawks give away items during the Seahawk games. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Tom Spindler made a motion to change the game day giveaway process to 2 items during the game, halftime and end of game, instead of 4 items. The idea is to try to improve the quality of giveaway items, while maintaining the level of cost at present annual expenditure levels. Leesa Payne seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

VII. Other Business

a) Foraker Leadership Training report – Dan Dan Kennedy reported that he and Jon Paul Campbell attended the Foraker Leadership Training and felt they made significant collaborative inroads, on behalf of Mat-Su Sea Hawkers, with several community organizations.

VIII. Adjournment Peggy Spindler made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 6:44 pm.

MAT-SU SEA HAWKERS

Meeting Minutes August 24, 2010

6:30 PM

I. Call to order The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm.

II. Roll call Members

Present: President, Tom Spindler, Vice President, Jon Paul Campbell, Treasurer, Dan Kennedy, At-Large Member, Rick Allen

Absent: Secretary, Peggy Spindler (at work), At-Large Members: Robert Davey (resigned), and Leesa Payne (unknown).

III. Approval of meeting minutes for – February 19, 2010 Dan Kennedy made a motion to approve the meeting minutes of February 19, 2010. Rick Allen seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

IV. Treasurers Report

a) Financial Report Dan Kennedy reported on the Profit & Loss Comparison from January through August 24, 2010, the net income was $14,106.64 compared to last year of $11,467.25 and the expenses were $10,161.36 and last year was $2,718.12. Total current assets are $31,473.99.

b) Other There is no other financial business to discuss.

V. Old Business

a) Mat-Su Multi-Use Sports Dome Update – Dan Kennedy Community Organizer Dan Kennedy reported that he sent an email to Community Sports, Inc. seeking their participation in joint filing a grant request with the Rasmussen Foundation to try and obtain a grant to help with pre-development process for a valley indoor sports dome. Community Sports, Inc. responded that they would not wish to co-apply at this time, due to their focus on other projects.

b) Membership - Roster Status – 71 current members 39 yet to renew Tom Spindler reported that there currently are 71 paid members and that there are 39 members yet to renew. Tom Spindler asked for help contacting certain family members about renewal plans. Dan Kennedy will speak to the Fulton family about renewal. Rick Allen will speak to Craig Thorn family about renewal. Tom Spindler will contact the John Blasko and Leesa Payne family.

c) 2010 Scholarship Tom Spindler reported that we only received one applicant for the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers scholarship. The Board voted by email to approve granting to Rachel Kennedy a $500.00 scholarship award. Dan Kennedy abstained from voting. Tom Spindler reported that Rachel Kennedy's application information was extremely diverse regarding academic and community achievements. Tom Spindler also reported that the second $500.00 scholarship was not awarded, due to lack of applicants. Tom Spindler reported that Gretchen Geist of Community Sports, Inc. is willing to help promote and handle the paperwork aspect of seeking applicants for the annual Sea Hawker scholarships. Mat-Su Sea Hawkers would continue as a part of the review and selection process, in addition to funding. Tom Spindler made a motion to collaborate the scholarship effort with Community Sports. Rick Allen seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

d) June 2010 Fund Raising Report Tom Spindler reported that Mat-Su Sea Hawkers planned, organized, and carried out a silent and live auction dinner fund raiser on June 30, 2010. Guests included Seattle Seahawks Vice President of Community Relations, Mike Flood, Seahawks Tight End Cameron Morrah, Wide Receiver Mike Hass, former Seahawk great Mack Strong and his wife Zoe Strong. Dan Kennedy reported that the event grossed $13,440.00, netting $8,461.82 after unanimous board approval via email communication for event expense payments of $4978.18. Of the $4978.18 total expenses, $3467.14 was dinner auction item specific, and $1511.04 was hotel related expenses that were reimbursed to Tom & Peggy Spindler, who covered the initial expense out of pocket. The event is considered a success.

e) Recent Donations Tom Spindler reported that Mat-Su Sea Hawkers made four recent donations, which the Board approved and voted unanimously by email. Youth sport related requests; Deonn Richardson received $250.00 for assistance with football game fee, Natassja Ralph received $125.00 for assistance to purchase a soccer uniform, Kyle Boss received $250.00 for assistance with wresting camp fee, and Wasilla high School Swim and Dive team received $500.00 for assistance with travel cost to compete in Kodiak swim meet.

f) 2010 BBQ Tom Spindler reported the Fourth Annual Sea Hawker Community BBQ was a success. The booster club supplied a whole hog, hamburgers, hot dogs, and various refreshments. Additionally, boosters brought a variety of side dished, salads, and desserts. Total cost of the public BBQ was $672.18, which was covered and approved unanimously by the booster club board, via email communications. Tom Spindler and the board said thank you to all who helped with the BBQ; Brian Davis for staying up all night roasting the hog, Paul Campbell for grilling the salmon, JP for helping with set up and the clean up. The weather was awesome, being the only rain free day we had seen in a month. The public turnout was good, with many children enjoying the games put together by Peggy Spindler.

g) Review of 2010 Goals & Objectives Tom Spindler reported that Mat-Su Sea Hawkers either have completed the goals as assigned, or are on the verge of accomplishing them. Two goals that remain unaccomplished are achieving 100 or more members in the booster club and trying to get booster members to attend a live game in Seattle this season. The booster club has 110 members on record, but several families and individuals have yet to pay their 2010 dues. This may be accomplished soon, as the football season has just begun. Getting the boosters to travel together to a live game in Seattle is not proving to be an attainable goal. Very few people have responded to the idea.

VI. New Business

a) Robert Davey Board Resignation Tom Spindler reported that he received and email from Robert Davey noting that he was tendering his resignation from the board, effective immediately. Robert intends to remain a booster and supporter, will still attend the game day gatherings and activities. He simply noted a desire to pursue other personal activities. Tom Spindler noted that the board needs to seek out a booster member who would be interested in serving out Robert Davey At-Large Board Member seat for the remainder of the term, which is until the next board elections in January 2012. If you are interested, please contact Tom Spindler at mat-su-seahawkers@hotmail.com, or by calling 907-232-5921.

b) Marketing and Advertising Tom Spindler reported that Phil Lundstrom of Tailgaters called him to discuss whether or not Mat-Su Sea Hawkers would again be purchasing radio advertisement time during the Seahawks football season. If so, perhaps we could share the cost. Discussion by the board noted that while our website received increased visits and viewer traffic, our membership did not directly benefit from the 2009 radio advertising. Tom Spindler asked if anyone on the board wanted to make a motion to fund advertising again on 700 AM KBYR. A motion was not made. The booster club will not actively seek to use on air advertising this season.

c) Foraker Group Renewal Tom Spindler informed the board that its membership with Foraker Group, a non-profit training and assistance organization, was due. The renewal fee being $100.00. Dan Kennedy made a motion that the Booster Club continue its relationship with Foraker Group and pay the $100.00 renewal fee. Rick Allen seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

d) Foraker Nonprofit Leadership Summit Jon Paul Campbell and Dan Kennedy reported they would like to represent Mat-Su Sea Hawkers at the Foraker Group Leadership Summit. The cost of attend the summit is $440.00. The Mat-Su Health foundation has offered Mat-Su Sea Hawkers a $350.00 reimbursement if we attend this function. The total cost to our organization is $90.00, after reimbursement. Tom Spindler made a motion to approve funding for Jon Paul Campbell and Dan Kennedy to attend the Foraker Leadership Summit. Rick Allen seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

e) Punt Pass & Kick - 2010 Tom Spindler reported that Andrew Mosby emailed about attending the Sea Hawkers BBQ in August and mentioned it was almost time for the 2010 Punt Pass & Kick event. Tom Spindler replied to Andrew Mosby asking him for further information regarding the PPK date and location. Tom Spindler has yet to receive any further information, but will send an email out to the membership seeking volunteers once more information is available.

f) Play 60 – July 2011 Tom Spindler reported that Mat-Su Sea Hawkers will begin planning a community day in conjunction with the Seattle Seahawks, slated for July 2011. The focus of the community day is to introduce the NFL Play 60 program to Mat-Su youth. Rick Allen noted that his wife Stephanie's connection with Mat-Su United Way could be a good partner for helping conduct this community activity. More as this develops.

VII. Other Business

a) Reimbursement to Paul Campbell -$440.00 – for paying online registration fee for Foraker Summit for Dan Kennedy and Jon Paul Campbell. Tom Spindler motion for the reimbursement, Rick Allen seconded it. The motion passed unanimously.

b) Reimbursement to Tom Spindler - $100.00 – for paying online renewal fee for Foraker 2010 Membership. Dan Kennedy made the motion and Rick Allen seconded it. The motion passed unanimously.

c) Dan Kennedy requested his exchange student, Ulriikka Kettenum, be added to the booster club under the Kennedy family membership. The Kennedy's host international students annually and they attend booster club gathers and functions while living here. Tom Spindler made the motion and JonPaul Campbell seconded it. The motion passed unanimously.

VIII. Adjournment Tom Spindler made a motion adjourn the meeting. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:20 pm.

MAT-SU SEA HAWKERS Meeting Minutes

February 19, 2010 4:00 PM

I. Call to order The meeting was called to order on February 19, 2010 at 3:25 pm.

II. Roll call Members Present: President, Tom Spindler, Vice President, Jon Paul Campbell Treasurer, Dan Kennedy, Secretary, Peggy Spindler, and At-Large Board Member, Bob Davey.

Absent: At-Large Members Rick Allen and Leesa Payne

III. Approval of meeting minutes for – December 17, 2010 Dan Kennedy made a motion to approve the meeting minutes of December 17, 2010. Bob Davey seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

IV. Treasurers Report

a) Financial Report Dan Kennedy reported that the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers Booster Club as of December 2009 had total income of $18,520.37 and the Expenses were $6,188.38 for a net income of $12,331.99.

b) 2010 Budget Projection Dan Kennedy presented the Profit and Loss Budget Overview from January through December 2010. Dan Kennedy mentioned that after having a work session with Tom Spindler the Income was changed for Donations – Board of Directors budget was $2,000.00 and has been changed to $300.00, and added a line item for Fundraising Auction of $7,000.00, and an Expense line item of Fundraising Auction of $2,000.00. Dan Kennedy made a motion to approve the budget as amended with the Income for Donations - Board of Directions from $2,000.00 to $300.00 and Fundraising Auction of $7,000.00, and Expenses for Fundraising Auction of $2,000.00. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

V. Old Business

a) Mat-Su Multi-Use Sports Dome Update – Dan Kennedy Community Organizer Dan Kennedy would like an Ad Hoc committee to meet with board members of AT&T Sports Center to pursue options on finding an independent operator, which Mat-Su Health Foundation and other philanthropic donors would require, in order to help fund building the Mat-Su Multi-Su Sports Dome. Tom Spindler made a motion to have an Ad Hoc committee for the Mat-Su Multi-Use Sports Dome, which will be Tom Spindler, Dan Kennedy and Jon Paul Campbell. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

b) Code of Ethics – Peggy Peggy Spindler reported that Leesa Payne and Rick Allen need to sign the Code of Ethics form.

c) Membership – Renewals Sent out – Due back by March Tom Spindler reported that the membership renewal forms have been mailed to the membership. Tom Spindler also reported that the membership forms are due back by March 2010.

d) Scholarship –(2)$500 scholarships, applications at: www.matsuseahawkers.com Tom Spindler reported the 2010 scholarship application has been posted on the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers website. Dan Kennedy recommended that Tom Spindler fax the scholarship application to the school scholarship counselors. Dan Kennedy also recommended that Jessica Wood work with various news organizations for a newspapers and radio advertisements.

e) 2010 corporate fund raiser update – Peggy

Peggy Spindler reported that the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers will hold a silent and live auction on June 30, 2010. Tom Spindler also reported that we have permission to use the Mat-Su Miners permit for the fundraiser. Tom Spindler also reported that he would work with the Elk's Club to secure the date of June 30, 2010 and find out the price of the rental. Tom Spindler made a motion to secure the Elks Club for June 30, 2010 for the Silent and Live Auction fundraiser and the amount of the rental time not to exceed $900.00. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Peggy Spindler reported that there will be a committee meeting tentative schedule date of March 13, 2010, and the location and time will be determined and communicated to the committee at a later date.

VI. New Business

a) 2010 Relay for Life – captain, site host, hawker hats & shirts Tom Spindler reported that the Relay for Life has been scheduled for May 14 & 15, 2010. Tom Spindler also reported that he will purchase the hats and get reimbursed from the members. Tom Spindler also recommended that the Board select a captain and site host. Dan Kennedy made a motion to nominate Captain, Tom Spindler, Co-Captains, Jean Campbell, Jon Paul Campbell and Reese Allen, and Site-Host, Bob Davey. Tom Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

b) Community Sports, Inc. – Project relationship Dan Kennedy reported that he would like Mat-Su Sea Hawkers to form a collaborative effort with Community Sports, Inc and the AT&T Sports Center, regarding the sports dome. Dan Kennedy suggested that he and Tom Spindler continue working with Scott Johannes in an effort to try to get AT&T Sports Center to become the willing operator of the Mat-Su Multi-Use Sports Dome, once built. Dan Kennedy reported that an identifiable operator is a necessary step toward getting major funding to build the dome.

c) Arctic Predators – 15% off season tickets & promo table at the game Tom Spindler reported that Hans Deemer of the Arctic Predators Football team has contacted him. Mr. Deemer asked if the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers could help promote their team by having them on Mat-Su Sea Hawkers web site. In exchange, Tom Spindler also reported that they would give our Booster Club members an exclusive 15% discount on Arctic Predator season tickets. Additionally, Mat-Su Sea Hawkers can have a promotional table at Predator home games. The game table would help Mat-Su promote the Sea Hawker booster club mission (supporting youth sports), provide a venue to offer and grow membership, as well as public access to help sell our yearly raffle tickets. Volunteers to operate the table would be needed to known and scheduled in advance. Tom Spindler made a motion to do cross promotions with the Arctic Predators. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

d) MYFA – offering online promotions, and sales space in their online store Tom Spindler reported that he has received an email from Andy Evans, Mat-Su Youth Football Association (MYFA), offering to do some marketing for the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers on their website, and also MYFA is offering us space in their online retail store, at no-cost, to list Sea Hawker jerseys, hats, T-Shirts, etc. on their website. Tom Spindler made a motion to work with Andy Evans, MYFA for the free marketing and advertisement of the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers booster club, as for online merchandise sales, Mat-Su Sea Hawkers keeps only a few booster specific items on hand. Tom Spindler reported that we obtain what we need from the Sea Hawker Merchandise department, and that perhaps Andy Evans could list the link to the Sea Hawker merchandise site on the MYFA store page, instead. http://www.seahawkers.org/shop.php Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passes unanimously.

e) MYFA – team sponsorship for 2010 - $300 Tom Spindler reported that he received a request from Andy Evans, Mat-Su Youth Football Association (MYFA) for the annual sponsorship of $300.00. Tom Spindler made a motion to donate $300.00 to the Mat-Su Youth Football Association. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

f) Wasilla High School – Request $500.00 to help cover costs a soccer clinic. Tom Spindler reported that he has received a donation request of $500.00 from Amber Craig, Wasilla High School Girl's Soccer Coach for a soccer clinic from Aril 8 to 11, 2010. Bob Davey made a motion to donate $500.00 to the Wasilla High School Girl's soccer clinic to be held from April 8 to 11, 2010. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. Dan Kennedy abstained. The motion passed.

g) Goals and Objectives Tom Spindler presented to the Board the 2010 Goals and Objectives. Tom Spindler reported that the Board would review at regular scheduled board meetings to see if the time lines listed have met the goals and objectives. Tom Spindler made a motion to adopt the Goals and Objectives as presented. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

VII. Other Business

a) Swalling & Associates – Consent for Tax Preparation Tom Spindler reported that it was time for Swalling & Associates to complete the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers tax preparation for 2010. Tom Spindler made a motion to have Swalling & Associates complete the tax preparation for the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. Dan Kennedy abstained. The motion passed.

b) Reimbursement – Peggy Spindler $88.00 – Postage Stamps Dan Kennedy made a motion to reimburse Peggy Spindler in the amount of $88.00 for postage Stamps. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

c) Reimbursement – Tom Spindler $21.94 – Business Cards for JP Dan Kennedy made a motion to reimburse Tom Spindler in the amount of $21.94 for business cards for JonPaul Campbell. Bob Davey seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

d) Due: Renewal Fee – Sea Hawker Satellite Chapter Annual Fee - $100.00 Tom Spindler reported that the $100.00 annual Sea Hawker Satellite membership is due. Tom Spindler made a motion to pay the $100.00 annual membership to the Sea Hawkers Central Council in Seattle Washington. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

e) Paid Foraker Board Development training session fee: $300.00 Tom Spindler reported that the Board through email previously approved the Foraker board development training session. Bob Davey made a motion to have the board members attend three additional training classes through Foraker 1) Fundraising, 2) Grant writing, and 3) Non-profit strategic planning. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

f) Due: KBYR Advertising final payment for 2009 marketing - $300.00 Tom Spindler reported that the Board did approve the six games of advertisement of the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers Booster Club during various Seahawks football games. Tom Spindler reported that the final payment of $300.00 was issued to KBYR.

g) Logos and Letterhead Tom Spindler reported that we will need to consistently use one design for logos and letterhead. Tom Spindler also reported that he would email the various forms and letterhead to the Board members. Dan Kennedy suggested the Board apply for an available $2,000.00 grant, which helps startup non-profits obtain professional marketing, brochures, and advice on how to solicit. Dan Kennedy reported that he would pursue the grant and would like Jessica Wood to assist him.

VIII. Adjournment Tom Spindler made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Bob Davey seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 4:40 pm.

I. Call to order The meeting was called to order at 5:38 pm.

II. Roll call Members

Present: President, Tom Spindler, Treasurer, Dan Kennedy, Secretary, Peggy Spindler, At-Large Member, Jon Paul Campbell.

Absent: Vice President, Rick Allen; At-Large Members: Bob Davey (at work) and Leesa Payne.

III. Approval of meeting minutes for – August 13, 2009 Jon Paul Campbell made a motion to approve the meeting minutes of August 13, 2009. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

IV. Treasurers Report

a) Financial Report Dan Kennedy reported on the Profit & Loss Comparison from January through September 2009, the net income was $11,824.25 compared to last year of $1,086.56 and the expenses were $4,206.12 and last year was $2,693.06. Dan Kennedy suggested that the Board send a letter to BP, thanking them for the donations through the BP Fabric of America. Dan Kennedy also suggested that we post a thank you on the web-site. Tom Spindler reported that he will post a thank you letter on the Community Board at work, too.

b) Other There is no other business to discuss.

V. Old Business

a) Mat-Su Multi-Use Sports Dome Update – Dan Kennedy Community Organizer Dan Kennedy reported that he will meet with Mat-Su Health Foundation on October 21, 2009 at 10:00 am to discuss the Sports Dome.

b) Code of Ethics – Review and approve (Bob Davey voted yes, via email) Dan Kennedy made a motion to adopt the Code of Ethics. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. Bob Davey voted by email to adopt the Code of Ethics. The motion passed unanimously.

c) Raffle Update: Currently $2540.00 / 127-tickets sold Tom Spindler reported that to date there are now 140 raffle tickets sold for an amount of $2,800.00.

d) Membership - Roster Status – 94 current members 13 yet to renew Tom Spindler reported that there currently are 94 paid members and that there are 13 family members to renew.

e) New Club Banners – Due to unexpected cost savings by vendor, number to buy increased from one to four banners bought. Voted yes by email 7/0 Tom Spindler reported that the Board voted by email to purchase 4 new banners. The motion passed unanimously by 7 to 0.

f) Cost Request: Mat-Su specific Sea Hawker decals - $2.50ea/100 – UV Laminated 7-year 6mil, or $1.69ea/100 non-UV Laminated 5-year 3mil. See Samples. Peggy Spindler made a motion to purchase 100 ea of the 3 mil non-UV laminated decals for $1.69 ea. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Tom Spindler will order the decals.

g) Joined Foraker – Set date for board training/orientation (www.forakergroup.org) Tom Spindler reported that he paid the Foraker group, and signed up the Board to receive the monthly newsletters. Dan Kennedy suggested that the Board schedule a Board Training Orientation in February. Tom Spindler will look at the schedule and send an email to the Board with a date for the training.

h) Scholarship Committee – Recommends changing from four $250.00 awards to one $1000.00 award. Peggy Spindler reported that the Scholarship Committee recommends a change to the scholarship amount from four $250.00 to one award of $1,000.00. Tom Spindler made a motion to change the scholarship from four $250.00 to one $1,000.00. Jon Paul Campbell seconded the motion. The motion did not pass as Dan Kennedy abstained from voting. The scholarship amount change has been tabled until the next meeting as the Board did not have the majority of votes required.

i) PPK Committee - Event and expenditure report Jon Paul Campbell reported there were no expenditures for the Punt Pass & Kick activity. Jon Paul Campbell also reported low participant turn out.

j) Request: Andrew Moseby: Help cover cost of turf time in Anchorage for state PPK Tom Spindler reported that he has not heard back from Andrew Moseby on the cost of the turf.

VI. New Business

a) Request: Please sponsor a table at Mat-Su Miners Fund-raiser – eight seats $280.00. Dan Kennedy made a motion to have the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers sponsor a table at the Mat-Su Miners fund raiser which includes 8 seats for $280.00 on November 14, 2009. Tom Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Tom Spindler will send an email to the Booster Club Members to fill the 8 seats, and it will be first come first serve basis for the seats.

b) Request: Wasilla Swim & Dive Team Boosters - $500.00. Voted yes by email 7/0 Tom Spindler reported that the Board voted by email to donate $500.00 for the Wasilla Swim & Dive Team. The motion passed unanimously by 7 to 0.

c) Frontiersman High School Academic Athlete of the Year – Award sponsor Dan Kennedy recommends that the Booster Club work with the Frontiersman for doing an award, in exchange for advertising our sponsorship.

d) Annual $250 "restock the box" time – Game day giveaways are running out Tom Spindler reported that he would like to spend $250.00 to restock the game day giveaways as we are running out of items. Board members concurred.

e) Advertising Offer: John Klapperich KMBQ – Wants $100 for each Seahawk game and he will spend $500 on Frontiersman advertisements promoting a non-profit. Jessica Woods to flesh out the offer and see how it best serves our organization. Tom Spindler will work with Jessica Woods to find out more information on the advertising promotion. Tom Spindler mentioned that he will send out an email to the Board after finding out more information on the costs and advertisement. The advertising through Frontiersman has been tabled pending more information.

f) 2010 Community Fun Day / Sea Hawker BBQ / Fund-raising auction – Tom Spindler recommends that the Booster Club look into having a fund raising auction possibly June, July or August. Peggy Spindler reported that she head the committee and will work with Paul Campbell to help solicit auction item donations corporate sponsors. Tom Spindler made a motion to have a community fun day / auction. Dan Kennedy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

VII. Other Business

a) Reimbursements- ? There are no reimbursements at this time.

b) Frontiersman: Mat-Su Sea Hawker article Tom Spindler mentioned that Greg Johnson with the Frontiersman wrote an article "Loyal band of fans cheer Seattle every Sunday".

c) Mark Turner – Book promotion - "Notes From a Twelfth Man: A Truly Biased History of the Seattle Seahawks": See Book Tom Spindler suggested that the Board read the book by Mark Turner "Notes from a Twelfth Man: A Truly Biased History of the Seattle Seahawks. Dan Kennedy asked Tom Spindler to find out what the costs would be to purchase the books, which could be part of the game day giveaways.

VIII. Adjournment Tom Spindler made a motion adjourn the meeting. Peggy Spindler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm.

Mat-Su Sea Hawker Specific:

• First ever Alaskan to be voted “Sea Hawker of the Year”
  
• Broke the 100 member barrier for the first time—107 members for 2010
  
• Raised nearly $14,500 in corporate donations and nearly $12,000 by auction, for youth sports
  
• Foraker Group Membership—ongoing professional training & consultation for board members
  

2010 Youth Specific Contributions:

• Mat-Su Youth Football - $300.00 donation
  
• Mat-Su Soccer Clinic-$500.00 donation
  
• Kyle Boss– Wrestling Camp Fee—$250
  
• Rachel Kennedy—Student Scholarship—$500
  
• Natassja Ralph—Soccer clinic fee—$125
  
• Deonn Richardson—Football clinic fee—$250
  
• Mary Klapperich—Volleyball team fee—$500
  
• Wasilla Waves Swim Team—Team travel—$500
  
• Wasilla Swim & Dive Team—Team travel—$500
  
• Fonteras Charter School—5k race prize (seahawk jersey) - $85
  
• Alaska Avalanche—Youth Hockey sponsorship—$250
  
• Community Sports Inc.: Night Courts—$500
  

Community Contributions:

• Mat-Su Relay For Life - Raised nearly $1,500 for cancer awareness
  
• Youth Sport Fundraiser—Arranged Seahawk players & management visit to Mat-Su Auction
  
• Children's Hospital Anchorage—Arranged Seahawk players & management hospital visit
  
• Mack Strong’s “Top of the World” Camp for rural Alaska kids (held in Barrow) - $1,000
  
• Gift item donation to Sertoma for fund raiser—$150
  
• Gift item donation to Alaska USA fund raiser—$75
  
• 4th annual free community open house BBQ at the Palmer Elks Lodge
  
• Continuing grass roots effort to gain technical, financial, and volunteer support to fund and build, and seek operator source for a Multi Use Indoor Sports Facility

Below are some photos provided to us by Carson Reed of his experience at the Punt Pass and Kick Regionals in Seattle where he placed 4th in his age group "CONGRATS CARSON" way to go. The Mat- Su Sea Hawkers helped Carson with a $250.00 donation to help with travel expenses.

Below are some photos from Kaden Ketchum from his trip to Seattle as he participated in the Punt Pass and Kick Regional competition, "CONGRATS KADEN" way to go. The Mat-Su Sea Hawkers helped Kaden with a $250.00 donation to help with travel expenses.

12 Grand for the 12^th Man

Seahawks Visit Alaska

 

In a demonstration of their on-going commitment to lend charitable support to the 12^th man, the Seattle Seahawks paid a recent visit to the Matanuska-Susitna Alaska communities of Palmer and Wasilla to assist the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers, one of the official Seattle Seahawks booster clubs, in raising nearly $12,000.00; monies that will be used for assisting various community youth sports and scholarship efforts that the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers engage in on a local level. So, 12 grand.. 12^th man… a coincidence? I think not, more like providence.

Knowing that Mike Flood, Seahawks Vice President of Community Relations, has always had a kind spot in his heart for Alaska certainly could not hurt Mat-Su’s chances when making such a significant travel request of the Seahawk organization. After all, Mike Flood was formerly stationed out of Kodiak Island for several years where he was flying C130’s for the Coast Guard. Mat-Su Sea Hawkers president Tom (Tomahawker) Spindler approached Mike every opportunity he had when in Seattle over the last couple of years. The Mat-Su Sea Hawkers wanted to put together an Alaska visit for the Seattle Seahawks, one that would engage them in charitable visits in the community and see them lend their support for a youth sport and scholarship fund raiser. You could almost see a twinkle in the back of Mike’s eye as his mind must have travel back in time to distant island in the Gulf of Alaska. Bait now in the water, it was time to chum the steely-deep brine in the form of an opportunity for a player or two to come experience Alaska’s beauty and the opportunity to possibly catch a fish or two after the charity work was conducted on June 30, 2010. After three years of patiently trolling, the bait is taken, the hook is set, and it is time to yell… HAWK ON!!  

Many sport teams commonly state that they enjoy and support the fan base of their surrounding state areas. Observation shows that often this is little more than talk. Particularly, given the number of requests an organization fields on a daily basis, it is simply staggering. One can certainly understand that an organization cannot be all things to all people. However, of the Seattle Seahawks, I have to say that over the years with regard to Alaska, the Seahawks have more than talked a good story; they have repeatedly walked the walk. Seahawks and Sea Gals alike have made trips to Alaska to lend support and visits to such organizations as Special Olympics and Children's Hospital. Lord knows we have all heard and read the comments that laughingly refer to the South Alaska Seahawks, given their location in the Pacific Northwest. I for one have never gotten the punch line of that joke. Personally, I love claiming the Seahawks as Alaska’s team, and I am not alone in that sentiment. This trip is our first official visit from the Seattle Seahawks for a Mat-Su Sea Hawker specific function. It is what I hope to be one of many to come. We are thrilled.

June 30, 10:30 AM, like clockwork, Mike Flood arrives with tight-end Cameron Morrah and wide-receiver Mike Hass. Both are second-year Seahawks who are currently fighting it out to once again make the team. Every year is a fight for a job. These guys are absolutely thrilled to be in Alaska, ready to engage the Alaska community at large, and if I do my job right, they will go home tired, gratified, but tired. OTA’s and practice might just look appealing compared to the grueling schedule that awaits them. So let’s begin the 2010 whirlwind tour of Seattle Seahawks in Alaska.

A 10:30 AM arrival at the Anchorage Airport, means this day started about 5:00 AM, and it finds the Hawks claiming their baggage and then we are off for a quick sandwich, before arriving at Children’s Hospital – Providence, in Anchorage.

12:30 PM - The Seahawks Cameron Morrah and Mike Hass, and Mike Flood, spend a couple of hours first engaging, talking, playing with all the children in the entire ward that are able to come to the common area, and then again by visiting the individual rooms of patients who are not able to come to the common area. This is a great day and many of the kids are feeling good, today, as is often displayed by the smiles on their faces, the climbing on player’s laps, and the holding of hands. The parents of these children are quite surprised to see a visit from the NFL Seattle Seahawks. One family in particular, from Scotland, has just checked their son in two days prior after he suddenly fell ill and then being diagnosed with cancer. The father noted how encouraging it was to see professional athletes visiting these children, especially way up in Alaska, of all places. You can see the visit touched not only the kids and parents, but the Seahawks, too.

 

2:15 PM, we are back in the vehicle and heading to the Mat-Su valley. But first, a quick unannounced pit-stop at Excalibur Sports for a simple hello introduction to Tobin, and the gang, while on our way out of Anchorage. I explained to the Hawks that these folks at Excalibur Sports have always been charitable to our requests for supporting youth sport donations. I just would not feel right passing within three blocks of their establishment and not at least stopping in for a few minutes. They are on board and happy to oblige.

2:45 PM – our quick pit stop turned into a genuine visit. Mike Flood and the players take in the store and the characters that run it. The visit was lively and engaging and the by the time we left, the Seahawks had stimulated the stores local economy and the store staff were impressed with the unannounced surprise visit. We are now on the way to the Mat-Su valley.

3:30 PM – A quick stop to check in to the hotel, throw some water on their faces, and back in the vehicle.

 

4:00 PM - A simple small town radio interview on a local country music station presents a unique chance re-acquaintance for Mike Flood. While Cameron Morrah and Mike Hass are on the air to Eddie Maxwell, Mike Flood is talking with a young man who is working the front desk at the station. After the interview is over, Mike Flood is all excited to introduce us to Andrew Kruka.

Andrew walks with the assistance of leg braces and crutches after a near fatal accident a few years earlier. It seems this is not the first time Andrew has met Mike Flood and some Seattle Seahawks. Five years earlier, July 2005 to be exact, Andrew was a patient at Children’s Hospital when the Seahawks last visited with Steve Hutchinson, Joe Jurevicius, and Jim Zorn. Andrew remembers being overjoyed at the visit from the Seahawks and Mike Flood that it inspired him to get back into an active lifestyle once out of the hospital. As we were driving away, we tuned into the radio station to hear Andrew get on the air and relate his story. It triggered a powerful emotion to hear his story and how the Hawks touched his life. Andrew is now a champion for Challenge Alaska organization, and a competitor. You can check out his activities at http://andrewkurka.wordpress.com/  

5:00 PM. We arrive at the Palmer Elks Lodge, located on beautiful and scenic Finger Lake. The Seahawks are to meet up with and do an interview the 700 KBYR, Voice of the Seattle Seahawks crew, prior to a fund raiser event, which starts at 6:00 PM. Our Voice of the Seahawks apparently have lost their voice, the crew fails to show up as scheduled. This leaves the Seahawks with what seems to be their first real break of the day and a chance to kick back on the deck to simply look at the mountains and the lake for a few minutes. However, they readily accommodate a few eager fans who simply could not wait for autographs and one-on-one conversation at 6:00 PM, so such is the life of being a representative of the NFL and the Seattle Seahawks, no rest for the weary.

6:00 PM – A no host social hour and silent auction kicks-off. The Seahawks are mingling with Seahawk fans and the public in general who are turning out to help raise money for the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers charitable efforts. While engaging the public, in walks recently retired Seattle Seahawk fan favorite Mack Strong and his wife Zoe. The Strong’s have been in Barrow, Alaska for a week already, sponsoring and engaging in Top of the World, a summer camp they put on for rural Alaska native youth, through their organizations Mack Strong TeamWorks and Hope World Wide. The Strong’s generously gave the Mat-Su Sea Hawkers an evening of their time to lend their celebrity status to the fund raising cause. A Sea Hawker pullover, a ball cap, and fan banner, all signed by Mack, brought in nearly $150.00 by itself.

7:00 PM – Dinner of fresh cooked Alaska King Salmon is starting to hit the tables, served by our youth volunteers, dressed in Sea Hawkers Booster t-shirts and ball caps. The dinner is a delicious and a success. People are enjoying themselves and the visiting Seahawks are feeling welcomed and starting to relax.

8:00 PM starts the live auction event; items are going for unbelievably low values, including authentic game-cut, hand-signed jerseys going for less than $200.00. We have over $18,000.00 worth of donated trips and various items and I am worried if this is a sign of things to come. With the evening winding down, the last item for bid is a Get Away to Seattle Weekend, donated by the Spindler family, Tom, Peggy, and son Adrian. This package was valued at nearly $2450.00 and originally consisted of two plane tickets, two nights hotel, and three game tickets, Section 138, row four, left of the team bench, near the 20-yard line for the Seahawks vs. Packers on August 21. The package has stalled at $2200.00. Will this item be a significant money maker, it will if Mike Flood has anything to say about it, and Mike is about to have plenty to say, getting up and announcing that to the package winner, he will take them on the field for a sideline visit, pre-game. That gets the bidding going again, but only to stall at $2400.00. Mike Flood jumps up again, announcing, the winner will also get a private tour of the Seahawks VMAC training facility the day before the game. The bidding takes off again, but stalls near $2700.00. Not to be left out of the action, Peggy (Mamahawker) steps up and announces that she is donating an additional airline ticket to the package, the bidding is now up to $3000.00, but again, stalling. Mike Flood, genuinely trying to make this event item a once-in-a-lifetime item, steps up and notes that the package winner will not only get to visit the VMAC the day before, but he is throwing in lunch in the players lunch room. We are now up to $3300.00 on the bid. In a final act of generosity, Mike Flood offers one last item, while visiting the VMAC and eating in the player’s lunch room, what visit would be more unique to a fan than with an opportunity to go onto the in-door training field and playing catch with the juggs machine. The bidding takes off and closes out at $3600.00. This auction items is a resounding success thanks to the Spindler family package donation and the Seahawks organization for pumping it up with once in a life time add-ons. The auction that started out slow seems to have turned a profit. A preliminary report has us raising nearly $12,000.00; thank you Seahawks and Sea Hawkers.

10:00 PM and time to clean up the event. The Seahawks, tired from a day of travel are offered a ride to their hotel. They respectfully declined, offering to help clean up the event and to then spend some personal time with the people who had to work the event and did not get a chance to visit with them during the event. How awesome was that. Going on 18 hours already and they are volunteering to stick around and help the helpers. Color me Blue and Green…impressed.

July 1, 1:00 AM. The event is broke down, cleaned up, and everyone has had a chance to meet the Seahawks. I am driving the Hawks to their hotel, but first a stop at a local store to obtain their fishing licenses. We have to be up and on the lake at 5:30 AM for an attempt at some local trout fishing.

0500 AM – The Seahawks are already in the lobby raring to go. We head down the road and meet up with David Alvarez, a Seahawks booster, a local representative for Veterans Outreach, and associated with the Alaska Wounded Warriors. We are on the lake at 5:30, compliments of another Seahawk fan, Deb.

After warming up on catching a few smaller trout, Mike Hass reels in an 18” rainbow.

0830 AM - Deb has to head to work, so we are in route back to the hotel for a quick nap, before we head to the Little Susitna River in hopes of landing a King Salmon.

11:30 AM, the Hawks are refreshed and ready to make another run at the fishing, this time for Alaska King Salmon. We hear the report is not favorable, but we insist on giving our best effort. We head to the store to arm ourselves sunflower seeds, jerky, bottled water, etc. You know, the essentials for real fishing. Let the hunt begin.

1:30 PM – We are out at the boat landing awaiting our Seahawks fan Craig Fletcher of Crazy Coho Fishing and his river guides, who will run the Hawks up the river and try to help them land a king, before a river closure takes effect. The Kings are not arriving in the numbers the state would like to see, so they have decided to close the river at 11:00 PM.

2:30 – 9:30 PM – we are knee deep in the Little Su River.

Cameron Morrah and Mike Hass have both had several hits, but no successful bites. If not for the kings rolling and flashing from time to time one to remind us they really are there, one would think the river devoid of salmon. When it is time to head off the river, Mike Hass is fist to volunteer to not ride back first, but rather “last.” At this point, I think Mike Hass has made it a personal mission to get that king. You know the one, the king splashing at him from time to time, you know… just to let him know he was still there and that Mike was leaving.

9:30 PM– Somewhere on the Little Su River a King is laughing his gills off, and we are in the truck heading to the Spindler house to grab a change clothes, before setting out on a 4-hour drive to Seward, Alaska, where we have a 6:00 AM check-in for a day’s fishing and site seeing.

 

July 2, 2:30 AM – We arrive in Seward, Alaska, check into our very inviting beds for a massive 3 hours of sleep. In case you are wondering, three hours sleep comes in less than two blinks and a quick snore. Well, it is of course, unless you are Mike Flood and you are experiencing your own Twilight Zone episode and your internal clock is messed up from sleep deprivation.

04:30 AM - Apparently, Mike Flood got up and was confounded to find the Spindler’s, Mike Hass, and Cameron Morrah are nowhere around and had seemingly taken off fishing without him. In complete disbelief that the party would simply leave him behind, Mike Flood checked with the desk clerk to be informed that Mike had not checked in with anyone else that night and that no one was looking for him that morning. Of course, to those of us who were at the hotel, and had actually met the night shift clerk, we could see how this could turn of events could only be considered hilarious. In fact, what had transpired was Mike had gotten up in two hours, rather than three hours, sacrificing a precious hour of sleep.

05:30 AM - The rest of the fishing party awakes refreshed from three hours of sleep. Mike Flood is nowhere to be found. And so begins a day that will go down in Alaska infamy known as the DAY THE FISH GREW SCARED.

0700-1600 – An overcast day of what we could only call perfect fishing weather and conditions are underway. Rock Bass, True Cod, Silver Salmon, King Salmon, and Halibut are stacking up like cord-wood in the holding bin of the 50’ Northern Wind, which is captained by Al and his two deck hands. Fortunately for us, Al was not booked for this date, as a last minute exclusive cash booking displaced us from our originally donated boat trip as we were preparing to head to Seward. Fate shined on us as we had the entire boat to ourselves. The Seahawks enjoyed the fishing and conversations.

 

 

 

6:30 – 8:30 PM – Weary from three days of non-stop charity and community visits, coupled with some Alaska site seeing and fish slaying, we set our sights on heading home to get the fish prepared for travel and some much needed sleep. But first, a quick stop at the Double Musky, one of Alaska’s well known, but out of the way eating establishments for our first real sit down dinner in days; the cost, two hours of our precious sleep time, but well worth the sacrifice.

 

July 3, 12:30 AM – The Seahawks are dropped off at the hotel, looking for their first serious sleep in days. They are looking at six whole hours of uninterrupted sleep, and Peggy and I are off to the house to vacuum seal and get the fish in the freezer. The Seahawks offer to help put away their days catch, but you know, it is just one of those chores best done when you simply do it yourself.

3:00 AM  - Tomahawker and Mamahawker have the fish in the freezer and ready for travel, and are hitting the rack.

7:30 – 10:30 AM – Seahawks are in the hotel lobby and ready to roll to the Anchorage Airport for their 10:30 AM flight back to Seattle. It is safe to say, the community enjoyed and benefited from their visit as I am sure they have likewise enjoyed their unique Alaska experienced. After all that running and lack of sleep for days, it is safe to say, 14-hour a day training camp is looking pretty good right to these guys right now.

And then, as soon as it began, it is over. Our thanks and gratitude go out to the Seahawks organization and the players for embracing the opportunity to come share some personal time off with us and to help brighten our small community, if only for even a little while.

Until next time, and with my respects,

Tom (Tomahawker) Spindler, President

Mat-Su Sea Hawkers, Inc. – a 501(c) (3) non-profit charity