Juneau student graduates from Aspen University

After 40 years as a nurse with an associate degree in nursing, Earline “Dale” Cotton began work as a returning student to earn her bachelor’s degree of nursing. Cotton graduated from Aspen University, School of Nursing in Denver, Colorado, during commencement ceremonies in July. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with her bachelor of science in nursing. She was inducted into the National Honor Society for Nursing Chapter at Aspen University on July 12, 2018. Upon graduation she was inducted into Delta Epsilon Tau International Society Chapter at Aspen University in October.

Cycle Alaska named one of America’s best bike shops

A downtown bicycle store has again been certified as among the top local bicycle retailers in the United States.

The National Bicycle Dealers Association announced Wednesday that Cycle Alaska was named as one of America’s Best Bike Shops for 2019, a nod that fewer than 200 qualified shops receive.

To become certified, retailers must undergo a lengthy application survey that quantifies key elements found in successful retail operations of all kinds. Mystery shoppers evaluate dealers through phone and email contacts, website appeal and accuracy, and an in-store visit with detailed breakdown of their experience, from a customer’s perspective, provided to all shops participating.

Certification also requires support for cycling local and national cycling advocacy.

John McConnochie, owner of Cycle Alaska, credits his team — especially General Manager Briana Swanson and Service Manager Chris Studi — for their success, as well as loyal customers throughout Juneau and Southeast. McConnochie said they are honored and humbled to be recognized for five straight years.

The National Bicycle Dealers Association is a nonprofit that promotes the interests of cycling and specialty bicycle retail since 1946.