Coastal Trail Neighbors - Best Version Media

04/15/2025

If you are a local business owner, no doubt you understand the impact of being involved with the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce. Headed by President and CEO Kathleen McArdle, the Chamber is a shining star in our community by playing a pivotal role in advocating for a robust economic environment while fostering growth and collaboration. We are proud supporters of the Chamber, and proud to highlight their role in our community this month.
Thank you, Kathleen and team!
~Janna, Publisher

03/27/2025

Hello friends, sponsors, and followers!
If you've ever wanted to know a bit more about my publications, please check out the landing pages for each of my publications.

https://www.bestversionmedia.com/magazines/southanchoragehillsideliving
https://www.bestversionmedia.com/magazines/coastaltrailneighbors
https://www.bestversionmedia.com/magazines/eagleriverliving

If you'd like to dive a little deeper or have questions, kindly give me a call or send me a message.

Thank you kindly!
~Janna Hardy

Jannese Hardy began publishing Eagle River Living in September 2024. Jannese enjoys connecting the community by sharing family-friendly content and shining a spotlight on local families every month. Eagle River Living is proudly sponsored by local businesses that want to make a positive impact and e...

02/05/2025

When it comes to living in Alaska, people either actively enjoy or simply tolerate snow. Then there are the exceptions: Stuart Lyle is what people refer to as a "chionophile," a person who LOVES snow! From Antarctica to the Andes, Stuart has traveled the world over to experience cold weather and plenty of snow. His adventures have taken hime to seven continents and five oceans, and he's not done yet. Stuart lives by the mindset of "There's really nothing to worry about," a perspective shaped by years of overcoming obstacles and finding solutions. When he's not traveling, Stuart is a local tax advisor doing tax prep, IRS audit representation, and tax debt settlement. His goal is to empower people to make the most of their money. Thank you, Stuart!
~Janna Hardy, Publisher

02/04/2025

For Michelle and Mitch Gross, life in Anchorage is a perfect blend of family, work, and community. From summer nights spent at the baseball park to the joy of helping a new family secure their first home, they find fulfillment in every corner of their lives. Their two boys, Zack and Luke, are the center of their lives, and a great source of joy. Mitch's Father, Gray Gross, lives with them from April to October. At 85, Gary remains a source of inspiration to the family through his wisdom and support. Lubick, their 13-year-old Yellow English Labrador rounds out their immediate family. As they look to the future, Michelle and Mitch are committed to continuing to make an impact on the city they love.
~Janna Hardy, Publisher

02/03/2025

We did a fun feature story in November. We met with the general director of the Anchorage Opera, Ben Robinson, wrote an awesome story about what is going on in the opera world, and put it in both of my Anchorage magazines, South Anchorage Hillside Living, and Coastal Trail neighbors, with a different cover photo on each. Ben is definitely pushing the creative boundaries for Anchorage Opera. Here is the CTN issue for you to enjoy...
~Janna Hardy, Publisher

10/21/2024

If you've been in Anchorage for over a decade or so you've no doubt heard the last name "Hickel" mentioned in a variety of arenas. Our feature story this month highlights Joe and Marlene Hickel and how they fit in with a family name steeped in Alaskan history. Joe and Marlene each resonate with community in uniques ways. Joe was a meticulous pastry chef at the Hotel Captain Cook, and is currently a recruit chaplain for the Anchorage Police and Fire Department. Marlene has a deep passion for animals and offers caregiving for all living beings. Together they share love, faith, and tradition with family and friends--a true delight to behold.
Thank you to you both for sharing your story!
~Janna Hardy, Publisher

10/16/2024

Hello readers and friends! Looks like I got a bit behind with my posts recently so I'll catch up with the latest issues.

We have a remarkable mother-daughter story this month that highlights their recent journey from China to Alaska. The Roark's story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, resilience, and compassion. Their journey reflects upon numerous challenges and triumphs, and is truly one of inspiration. Laura and Mia Roark exemplify the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities at large, no matter which part of the world they reside. We are delighted that they now call Anchorage "home" and welcome their positive influence and immediate dedication serving OUR community. Enjoy!

08/28/2024

When we think about people who contribute to our Alaskan history, Sandy Cauldron's six decades in Alaska have definitely played a role. From Havana, Cuba to Alaska, Sandy soared the skies initially with Pan American and then with Alaska Airlines. Later on she became a teacher's aide with bilingual and native children, and eventually for children with special needs. Sandy is a master gardener and continues to enjoy working in her beautiful garden. Her vibrant and giving spirit clearly radiates throughout her neighborhood. What a beautiful soul!

07/17/2024

One day I received an email from an avid reader suggesting an awesome family as a possible feature story. When I reached out to this family, it quickly became obvious that they were exactly the kind of family that reflects the enduring power of "community." Meet Jill and Yll Vrlaku and their two outgoing boys, Nikko and Greyson. Their love story started with Jill's three-year pursuit of Yll and has evolved into a mutually thriving partnership that continues to grow, both personally and professionally. No doubt you've seen them if you frequent the the Snack Shack near the lagoon. Enjoy their story!
~Janna Hardy, Publisher

06/27/2024

Summer has arrived, and with it a fantastic feature story about Brad Cruz and friends celebrating their 70 year "young" birthdays with the challenge of a lifetime. This month two squads of four and their support crew will bike 3000 miles from Oceanside, CA to Atlantic City NJ, within a mandatory nine-day time frame. The goal of this ambitious challenge? To raise $250,000 for the American Lung Association. What a gift! From serving as a radiologist for many year to now serving as an ambassador for health with the American Lung Association, Brad continues his commitment to community service with a new "cycle" in life. Good luck to team Brad!

05/08/2024

Ahhhhh.... the sounds of springtime.... Birds singing, mosquitos buzzing, and the sounds of parents cheering on children playing baseball in neighborhood parks! Franky Lopez, current president of Anchorage West Little League, brings a sense of joy to the league through his through his ever positive coaching approach of turning obstacles into opportunities, while wearing his ever-infectious smile. Win or lose, through dedication to youth sports development and community engagement, the league embodies resilience, inclusivity, and camaraderie, leaving a lasting impact on the Anchorage community. What more could we want for our children and our community? Let's get behind these youth and their parent-coaches and continue to support this cultural tradition right in the heart of the neighborhood at Lyn Ary Park.
Thank you so much, Franky!
~Janna Hardy, Publisher and Community Connector

04/01/2024

Cheryl and Craig Lyon grace us with their story this month. Cheryl is a well respected and talented encaustic artist, while Craig is the Planning Director for the municipality, and together they share four "yours, mind, and ours" children. This tight-knit family truly loves their neighborhood! With its proximity to downtown, walkability, recreation, and warmth of community, they can't imagine living anywhere else. Treating others with kindness is their family motto, and it definitely shines through in all they do. Thank you, Cheryl and Craig!
~Janna Hardy, Publisher