The Alaska State Troopers and the Department of Public Safety are organizing a Citizen Academy in Soldotna designed to enhance the public’s understanding of troopers’ community role.

The objective is not preparing graduates to become troopers, but rather promoting an understanding of the Soldotna-based E Detachment’s functions and services. According to a press release, unrealistic Hollywood ideals spread misinformation about policing across the country.

It’s not a shot-type spirit in the least, said High Mark Distillery owner Felicia Keith-Jones. The Sterling-based distillery produces a unique spirit called applejack, an alcoholic beverage produced from apples. Her recipe has Scottish roots.

“So, you may get some haggis on the table, and as you’re getting ready to take a bite here comes the relief,” she said recalling Christmas dinners with the family. “They’d sip the applejack from glasses.”

The Chugach Brass of the University of Anchorage Alaska is returning to the Kenai Peninsula after a three-year hiatus. The decision was a no brainer for the university professors.

The group enjoys playing together and does so simply when asked, said Chris Sweeney, trombone player.

On Friday, the musicians will perform two concerts and conduct separate workshops at area schools. On Saturday, the ensemble will perform at Soldotna Christ Lutheran Church at 7:30 p.m.

A 20-year-old Soldotna man is in custody after attempting to flee from local police who popped the pickup’s tires with a spike strip, which still did not halt the fleeing driver.

On Monday at 9:03 p.m., a Soldotna police officer tried to stop Jacob F. Graham’s 1990 Chevrolet pick up after spotting the vehicle speeding southbound on the Sterling Highway, the Soldotna Police Department reported.