New Version of "Alaska Outlaw" Playing Cards Dealt to Stores

Bill Allen, the key figure in the public corruption probe recently concluded by the Department of Justice, remains in the deck, as he does in the news.

Tools

By Bill McAllister
Bio | Email

From the queen of hearts -- Michele Linehan -- to the queen of clubs -- Sarah Palin -- it's a deck of cards known for its depictions of controversial figures in Alaska.

The third edition of the “Alaska Outlaws, Rebels & Cons” playing cards was delivered to some stores today.

Since launching the deck in 2008, Hahn says he's sold 15,000 of the first two editions.

Most of the cards are perennials -- Soapy Smith isn't likely to drop out ever -- but 17 new ones await buyers of the third edition.

Creator Jason Hahn thinks he's tapped into the essence of the Last Frontier with the cards.

"It kind of captures that wild west flavor of Alaska I think we still have today. We still have that rebellious streak in us, and I think people have responded well to the cards because it captures that kind of flavor of Alaska."

The third edition deck is again a combination of literal outlaws, some contemporary and some historical, along with a variety of other public figures who have caused controversy or who got into trouble while visiting the state.

At Bosco's, employee Eric Helmick says the outlaws deck is always a brisk seller with his amused customers.

"Lots of laughter. Most of them buy them for their family and friends down in the lower 48, just to let them know how goofy it can get up here."

"They've done really well over the state,” Hahn said. “Tourists buy them; we get out of state sales. So they've just kind of been a really popular Alaskan item."

There are new cards for failed U.S. Senate candidate Joe Miller and Schaeffer Cox, who is charged with conspiracy to commit murder in the so-called "241" militia case.

"People have asked me, has anyone ever complained about being in the deck," Hahn said, "and actually no, the people that have responded to me, anyway, it's actually been pretty positive."

Bill Allen, the key figure in the public corruption probe recently concluded by the Department of Justice, remains in the deck, as he does in the news.

A former governor was a fan.

"He just passed away, but I sent Wally Hickel a deck,” Hahn said. “He's in the deck. I wouldn't say he's an outlaw, but he's definitely a rebel. And he actually took it in good spirit; he wrote back and said it was an honor to be in Alaska outlaws, rebels and cons playing cards."    

For fans of Alaskana, Hahn thinks it's a good deal.

 

You have indicated this comment should be removed.

Close

The comment has been submitted for review. Thank you .

Monday said on Saturday, Dec 17 at 12:19 PM

Tasteless.

78586819
Inappropriate? Alert Us!

Jeff Smith said on Wednesday, Nov 30 at 3:53 PM

I'm "Soapy" Smith and I approve these cards.

77702601
Inappropriate? Alert Us!

geuli said on Wednesday, Nov 30 at 11:09 AM

Please don't make fun of Alaskans! Not fair!!

77689333
Inappropriate? Alert Us!

dclark9 said on Wednesday, Nov 30 at 10:14 AM

I hope they included a card for the typical person who comments on ADN and other local news sites.

77685978
Inappropriate? Alert Us!

bingaboom said on Wednesday, Nov 30 at 3:38 AM

really, the real CONS are Murkowski and Begich who keep selling away our freedoms!! ADD THEM!!! and what about FRANK the BANKster???

77666537
Inappropriate? Alert Us!

Add a comment

Name:

Comment: 1000 Characters Left

KTVA CBS 11 | Anchorage, Alaska News and Weather and its affiliated companies are not responsible for the content of comments posted or for anything arising out of use of the above comments or other interaction among the users. We reserve the right to screen, refuse to post, remove or edit user-generated content at any time and for any or no reason in our absolute and sole discretion without prior notice, although we have no duty to do so or to monitor any Public Forum.

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.