As I read the cutline for a historical image from the Alaska State Library Historical Collection of a group of hunters, many names caught my eye — Shattuck, McNaughton and Goldstein, for instance.

Their names I had heard — some monikers still resonate today, such as the building downtown that bears the Goldstein name.

But I knew little about these men, aside from what I could gather from the photograph.

The following is a sliver of information about the hunters:

Many Native Alaskans believe that totem poles have a spirit like all living things. They are meant to live and, over time, they are intended to “die” as the wood, the carvings return to the land.

Many also believe the totems serve great historical significance — they mark the passing of an influential elder, the completion of a new lodge or, as is the case of the Yax té (Big Dipper) totem, a place where a strong tribe flourished.

Season passes for Eaglecrest Ski Area are currently on sale for the 2012-2013 season and the cheapest prices of the season end Sunday, Oct. 7.

An adult unlimited pass, good for any day Eaglecrest operates, is currently on sale for $449, but prices will increase after the October deadline.

Oh September, such a bittersweet month — the rains arrive bringing a chill to the air and termination dust to the peaks. Cottonwood leaves turn golden and garden nasturtiums, with their colorful, edible blooms, explode in one last burst of color. It’s a trifle hard to think about digging up the garden, to tuck it in for winter. But, for many reasons it’s absolutely necessary. Darren Snyder, with the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service, offered up a few quick tips on how to turn down your yard and garden in preparation for next year’s growing season.