AWARE Executive Director Saralynn Tabachnick, left, and Deputy Director Mandy O’Neal Cole talk about the shelter becoming gender inclusive during an interview on Monday, Dec. 11, 2017. (Michael Penn | Juneau Empire File)

AWARE Executive Director Saralynn Tabachnick, left, and Deputy Director Mandy O’Neal Cole talk about the shelter becoming gender inclusive during an interview on Monday, Dec. 11, 2017. (Michael Penn | Juneau Empire File)

Opinion: All In For Saralyn!

Upon entering Wellspring Integrative Medical Center, there is no mistaking our support for Saralyn Tabachnick for mayor. As owner of Wellspring, I believe Tabachnick’s experience, commitment and leadership skills are exactly what Juneau needs. Having had the honor of getting to know and work with Tabachnick, I recognize and respect her unique ability to pinpoint issues and problem solve in a manner that considers the voices of all involved.

Along with her ceaseless work addressing public safety issues and social justice initiatives, Tabachnick has remained steadfast in her efforts to serve the most vulnerable populations in Juneau. For 30-plus years, Tabachnick has worked to end child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault through her work at AWARE, which is a gender inclusive initiative. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, she has touched the lives of many individuals, and her advocacy work has given her a noteworthy perspective on the needs of the women, children, men and families of Juneau. As such, I view her as a leader who has worked in the trenches of our community, giving her an elevated, and intimate, understanding of issues such as housing, child care, education, community safety and equality.

As a small business owner dedicated to the health and well-being of our community, it is important to me that our next mayor has a strong understanding of the here and now and what is needed to move us toward the collective good for all. As demonstrated by Tabachnick’s extensive track record for creating positive change for Juneau, she has a one-of-a-kind talent for uniting people, a heightened awareness of solutions to address the safety needs of Juneau, and an intuitive sense for innovating to establish a higher quality of life. Community, safety and innovation are the three words we have all seen on her campaign signs — three simple words that embody her message for the path forward.

Tabachnick’s vision for a thriving Juneau is inclusive of all ages, cultures and lifestyles living secure and fulfilling lives within a healthy community environment. As mayor, she will attain success through collaboration and consideration — working together while being mindful of every voice. I believe there is agreement that her vision for a successful Juneau is merely an extension of how she lives her life, and that is what sets her apart as the best candidate for mayor.

Tamar Boyd, Ph.D.

Owner of Wellspring Integrative Medical Center


My Turns and Letters to the Editor represent the view of the author, not the view of the Juneau Empire.