Who am I?
I was born at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska. My father was in the Air Force and my family relocated a few times before settling in Montana. In 1991, I moved to Unalaska with my daughter Danielle Whittern. I worked at APL throughout the 1990’s until my husband Andy and I set sail in 2002 on our 41-foot sailboat to travel the world.
After completing our circumnavigation, we returned home to Unalaska. Upon my return, people came to me seeking help and I saw a need in the community and started a bookkeeping business. My goal was to help small businesses and non-profits maintain their books and understand their financial statements. I currently serve as President on the Unalaska Senior Citizens Board and most recently acquired ownership in The Norwegian Rat Saloon. My husband and I also own property in Unalaska and we have four grandchildren living here locally; Jazzmyne & Marina Shapsnikoff, and Deklan & Dalyla Nettleton. I am extremely vested in our community and intend on living out my life in Unalaska. We have a unique population of people that create a wonderful community.
Why am I running for City Council?
I am running for City Council to provide a sustainable quality of life through excellent stewardship of government.
The last couple of years have been rough for our community to say the least. The responsibility of being a City Council member goes beyond setting health mandates. The City Council is a judiciary of the people’s money and with my business and accounting experience I believe I can serve the people well.
Living in a small community you need to wear multiple hats. When I worked in management at APL, it would be challenging at times working through labor disputes with the ILWU. These individuals were also my friends, family, and neighbors. I learned early on, if you treat people fair and with respect you will get the same back, even if you have a difference of opinion.
If elected to City Council, I would serve as a representative of the people. I know you cannot please everyone but if I can represent the majority then I will have done my job.
Statements were submitted by candidates and have not been edited.