Parents Are Vital Partners With Public Schools Battling Opioids

Parents Are Vital Partners With Public Schools Battling Opioids

Contributed by Michael Carson

The Mat-Su Opioid Task Force believes parents are vital partners in providing their children with the most current and accurate information regarding opioid misuse, especially with the troubling trends of fentanyl.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more powerful than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine. In fact, fentanyl has contaminated heroin, cocaine and meth. Also, it is in counterfeit pills like Percocet, Xanax, Oxycontin and even Adderall.

In addition, the D.E.A. ( Drug Enforcement Administration) has now alerted the public that 6 out of ten counterfeit pills contain a potentially lethal dose.  And, it only takes 2 mg of fentanyl to be a lethal poison. ONE PILL CAN KILL! ( D.E.A. ) 

In short, the only safe drugs come directly from a physician or licensed pharmacist. In our conversations with youth, I am not suggesting using a catchy slogan, ( DARE ) a one-liner, ( just say, NO ) or using scare tactics. ( Reefer Madness ) 

Parents have to become well informed with the facts to have those honest and important conversations with their children. One gram of fentanyl, the size of an artificial sweetener packet can kill 500 people.

Next, the Mat-Su Opioid Task Force believes all our public schools can be an insurance policy to provide all middle and high school  students with facts and data regarding opioids to make life-saving choices. I believe we want all our youth to be safe, healthy and thriving.

If you believe we need that insurance policy for drug prevention and education, I suggest you contact your Alaskan Legislators to support HB6: Opioid Awareness in Public Schools. Unfortunately, Alaska Health Curriculum has not been reviewed or revised since 2017 with no standards addressing opioids, much less fentanyl. And, that is true for any teacher resources with no current information and/or explaining the dangers of fentanyl. There needs to be opioid awareness for our youth as soon as possible.

It is opioid roulette that can be a nightmare alley with a dead end for families, loved ones and friends. The stakes are too high. It is not a carnival game and we can not be naive or leave our youth unprepared. I am convinced we have to move upstream with primary drug prevention and education to cut off the flow into the river of addiction. 

Alaska had the ‘largest’ jump nationally for drug overdoses and the majority of those overdoses/poisonings were due to fentanyl. And, the Alaska Law Enforcement annual report, stated last year 26.85 ( 59 lbs. ) kilos of fentanyl was seized and that equates to 13 million fatal overdoses. Also, three weeks ago, a drug bust took place at the Juneau Airport with the seizure of 5,000 counterfeit Oxycodone pills at a street value of $150,000.

There is no doubt, fentanyl is widespread across the state, in the form of ‘rainbow fentanyl,’ ( candy like ) counterfeit pills and in every street drug out there. Parents and public schools can partner to ensure youth know how opioids ‘hack and whack the brain.’  Opioid misuse can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction, with dire consequences. 

Consider this description… ‘ With the bombardment of opioid misuse, it would be like driving a car with one foot on the accelerator and the other foot on the brake at the same time. You are lurching forward, unsteadily and uncontrollable, burning up your brakes, just spinning your wheels and potentially, ending up in the ditch. And, that ditch could be a fatal overdose or poisoning.’ 

Finally, parents, youth and public school teachers need a menu and/or toolbox of resources that includes facts, data and definitions for opioid awareness all across Alaska. 

Thank you for considering supporting HB6: Opioid Awareness in Public School.

Our Second Skin – The Clothes We Wore

Our Second Skin – The Clothes We Wore

Contributed by Judy Vars 

Newsflash: The Fast Fashion Industry waste is drastically contributing to climate change! Fast fashion describes cheap, stylish, mass produced clothes that have a huge impact on the environment. These garments appeal to shoppers because they are affordable and trendy. But they aren’t built to last and quickly go out of style and because they are cheaper they are easily discarded, piling up in landfills. 

We live in a consumerist, disposable world where we are told everything needs to be the newest, the latest, or trendiest fashion. The clothes we wear represent how we walk through the world, our social status, and our “coolness”.  How we dress our bodies is how we represent ourselves to the world. 

Have you ever thought about where clothing goes after you’re done with it? After the thrift shores are done with it? When there is no longer a use for it? We all share an ugly little secret – how much actual waste is involved with the fast fashion industry.

In the 1960s the average American bought fewer than 25 items of clothing and no more than 10% of their budget on clothing and shoes. 95% of the clothing was Made-in-America. Many of you might remember the hand me downs from our siblings and clothes waiting to be mended and repaired? Then things began to change, with massive factories and textile mills opened in China and Latin America. With cheap labor and material (made from fossil fuel) they could mass-produce inexpensive garments quickly.  By the 1980s outsourcing was born, and with that came other issues such as sweatshops, lower quality clothes and child labor.

The average person throws away 81.lbs of clothes every year. In America alone, an estimated 11.3 million tons of textile waste – equivalent to 85% of all textiles – end up in landfills on a yearly basis. 

The alternative to all this waste and consumption is “slow fashion”. This means buying ethical, sustainable, quality items. When shopping, consider timeless over trendy and buying secondhand. You can take steps to make sure your clothes last longer;

● Repair rips, broken zippers and lost buttons. 

● Wash clothes only when necessary.

● Donate what you no longer wear.

● Have a clothing exchange with friends. 

Valley Community for Recycling Solutions is hosting a special art show: Our Second Skin, The Clothes We Wore – We are asking artists, seamstresses and all creatives to explore and reexamine the relationship we have to our clothes, our Second Skin. Convey this idea in art wearables, decorative or accessory pieces, or wall art.  Set your imagination and ideas free. Find and download our prospectus https://www.valleyrecyclingak.org/our-second-skin. 

Entry deadline is July 28th 2023. Artists reception will be at the Dorothy Page Museum in Wasilla, August 5th. Select pieces will be displayed at the VCRS Education Booth at the Alaska State Fair. 

Now Is The Time to Sell

Now Is The Time to Sell

Contributed by Hagler

You have been waiting. The annual Break-up in Alaska has begun and spring (or is it “false spring?) has arrived, and you haven't been sure whether to sell your home or hang on a little longer? You have heard about inflation and the Fed's rate hikes and mortgage rates have gone up from where you first bought.  The good news? Do you know how much equity in your home you have built up? With low inventory and high demand, your home may not only have increased in value but the price may be significantly more than you realize.

There are two types of people.  Those who choose to do nothing.  Then there are those who do something.  That something may be as simple as calling a Realtor and getting a Comparative Market Analysis (this is a tool that Realtors use to estimate the value of a property by comparing to ones similar) regarding their home.  Then do your spring cleaning with purpose! Do it with the idea of putting your home on the market.  Follow these simple ideas:

First things first, declutter the home! No one wants to see your embarrassing family photos or your collection of dolls or Star Wars memorabilia (ask me how I know). Pack 'em up and hide 'em away. According to the National Association of Realtors, staging your home can make it easier for buyers to visualize themselves living there. So, put yourself in their shoes and make your home feel like their future home.

Second, now that your home is decluttered, keep it organized.  It doesn't take much to put items in their rightful place and give the illusion of cleanliness. Make sure to dust, vacuum, mop - you know all that good stuff.  Pick up those toys, wash those dishes, and make your bed. You don't want buyers walking in and thinking they stumbled into a disaster zone.

Third, let's talk about pricing. You don't want to scare buyers away with a crazy high price tag. Do your research and price it just right. Here is where you consult a Realtor. Be realistic, don't just ask for the highest number you can think of. Also, make sure your listing is well-written and has good photos. You want everyone to know how awesome your home is!

Fourth, make sure buyers have full access to your home. Having the home available anytime gives them more opportunities to fall in love with your house and make an offer.  If you can't be available, hire a Realtor who can do the job for you!

The demand is high for homes right now in the Matsu Valley and Anchorage Borough and if you follow these tips, you'll be on your way to a quick sale when the time comes! Who knows, you might also be ready to put some of that stuff on the Marketplace and make some extra cash to go with the money from your home sale!

Ken Hagler

Alaskan Realtor®

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Dream Makers, Wasilla, AK

1051 E Horvath Dr Suite 103, Wasilla, AK

(907)891-8830

www.alaskahomesforsale.realestate

Meet Athena

Meet Athena

Contributed by Alaska Animal Advocates

This sweet Shep Mix is approximately 8 to 10 weeks old.  She is a bit shy when meeting new people, but eventually settles in and is quite friendly and charming. Athena is up to date on vaccines and deworming, but still needs to be spayed. She will be spayed by 04/20. 

If you would like to meet this lovely girl, call Angie at Alaska Animal Advocates at (907)841-3173.

Matilda The Musical Comes to The Valley

Matilda The Musical Comes to The Valley

Contributed by Brenda Davis 

Once upon a time, there was a girl who was trapped. This is the story of her great escape! Matilda is the tale of a brilliant child who has been ignored by her parents. Based on the 1988 novel Matilda by Roald Dahl, this wonderful story is brought to life on the Glenn Massay stage June 2-June 10, 2023.

Director Bronsen Stewart says of the production, “It took a lot of back and forth before finally deciding on Matilda The Musical! But after thinking about it over and over again and falling in love with the music, I realized that this is the story that needs to be told right now! With all the negative and hateful events going on in the world, Matilda stands out above it all and will bring joy to the audience! The message is truly inspiring to younger kids and young adults who are about to go out and start their lives! On top of that, I wanted to pick a show that would genuinely showcase the insanely talented abilities of this cast. We’re bringing more challenging choreography, wonderful vocals, and a story that can only be told with the energy and the heart of this cast! With a crew like this, you’re sure to see a truly remarkable and highly energetic stage production this June!

Another bonus for me personally is that It’s been so much fun building another set with my dad, Tim Stewart. He was the mastermind that designed and built all the Audrey II plants from our production of Little Shop of Horrors last October. I enjoy working with my dad and set building gives us an opportunity to spend quality time together doing something we both really enjoy.”

A-List Productions brings together a talented cast of 20 local actors, singers and dancers and will be joined by eight members of Enliven Dance Studio. This production has ambitious choreography directed by Pam Burlingame.

Colony High sophomore Hailey Willis plays the leading role of Matilda and says, “I am super excited for the opportunity I was given to play Matilda in this show! Matilda is such a fun character to learn and flesh out, and I love playing her! I’ve been in many productions but the cast of this show truly stand out to me by how talented and professional they are. Everyone is so kind and every practice is so much fun.”  

Burton Shields says: “I enjoy tackling the role of The Trunchbull so much! The amount of evilness with order that she conducts is so cruel yet so exhilarating to portray. The first time I saw the show I noticed the ABSOLUTE POWERHOUSE that made her iconic. I just knew I had to be in those shoes! Screaming at children is a plus!”

Seasoned actress Aspen Bakner has played many roles including Ursula in The Little Mermaid as well as The Wardrobe in Beauty and The Beast.  This time around Aspen is happy to play a kinder, sweeter role.  When asked about playing the role of Miss Honey, Aspen said  “I’m so excited to be portraying such a loved character. As I’m studying the role, I’m realizing how much of a kind soul Miss Honey is. She’s so selfless and such an excellent example to all her students. On the other side, she has so much self-doubt which I feel is very relatable to many people, including myself. It is heartbreaking to know someone as kind as she thinks so low of herself. It’s been very interesting working through her doubts because I feel like it’s so obvious to the audience how wonderful she is. This is also my first “soft” role as I’ve been calling it.

I’m usually cast as the villain or the loud out-of-this-world character so it's been a huge transition to learn the role of a normal person with normal wants and doubts.  This is my last show here in the valley before I move to the lower 48 so I’m definitely planning on giving it my all and going out with a bang, which won’t be hard with a show like MATILDA!” 

Matilda is an extremely intelligent child and a math genius says, “What I really like is reading! It’s like a holiday in your head!” 

Mr. Wormwood, Matilda’s father, is played by Porter Reynolds who had this to say about his experience: “It’s an awesome opportunity to portray someone as notable as Mr. Wormwood. I grew up watching Danny DeVito’s portrayal of Mr. Wormwood and this is a dream come true for me! This is my first attempt at playing a mean character and I’m loving it!”

To promote your business in our playbill, please email healthyhomealaska@gmail.com or call 907-232-8160

To learn about future productions and audition dates follow A-List Productions on Facebook and on their website at A-List Matilda runs for two weekends only from June 2-10 so get your tickets as soon as possible at:  Alist.booktix.com   all tickets $20 

Mat-Su Health Foundation Announces More than $900,000 in Grants for March 2023

​​Mat-Su Health Foundation Announces More than $900,000 in Grants for March 2023

Contributed by Ahliil Saitanan ​​​

Wasilla, Alaska — The Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) awarded 18 Healthy Impact, Target Wellness, Strategic and Discovery grants totaling more than $900,000 in March 2023. The grants support nonprofit organizations providing services to improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in the Mat-Su.

Healthy Impact grants are for projects more than $15,000 and three grants totaling $580,000 were awarded:

​​​​​● Alaska Addiction Rehabilitation Services: $50,000 for a new Freedom Outpatient vehicle.

● Palmer Family Church of the Nazarene: $500,000 to build Palmer Family Park.

● Valley Charities, Inc.: $30,000 for the Mat-Su Reentry Housing Project.

Target Wellness grants are for projects up to $15,000 and 11 grants totaling $89,525 were awarded:

● Alaska Assistance Dogs: $15,000 for therapy dog programs.

● Epilepsy Foundation of America: $10,700 for the Seizure Safe Alaska program.

● Glacier View Community Council: $1,500 for 2023 health fair.

● Meadow Lakes Community Development Inc.: $5,500 for the Meadow Lakes Community Park Project.

● Meadow Lakes Seniors, Inc.: $2,000 for 2023 health fair.

● Peer Power: $15,000 for Peer Power Annual Summit and Community Outreach.

● Pioneer Amateur Hockey Association: $10,600 for a gear rental program.

● Sunshine Station Child Care Center: $12,825 for expansion of their childcare facility.

● United Way of Mat-Su: $10,500 for Community Innovation Grant Proposal. Technical assistance in preparation for a proposal for a Community Innovation Grant for Child Care grant opportunity.

● Valley Charities, Inc.: $5,000 for the National Association of Reentry Professionals 2023 Conference.

● Wasilla Middle School: $900 for a Kids Don’t Float pool session. 

Discovery grants are for projects up to $15,000 that address recommendations found in MSHF-sponsored research reports and encourage innovative responses to address key areas identified in the reports that impact MSHF focus areas. One grant totaling $100,123 was awarded:

● Pediatric Resource Center of Alaska: $100,123 for the Career Connect Program

Strategic Grants are used to fund proactive systems improvements often resulting from local or statewide coalition work involving MSHF staff and community partners. Strategic Grants are intended to build the community health capacity of coalitions and collaboratives or launch program/organizational efforts that fill gaps in the Mat-Su system of care. Three grants totaling $196,655.70 were awarded:

​​​● LINKS Mat-Su Parent Resource Center: $102,000 for Crisis Now system and client support.

● Meadow Lakes Seniors, Inc.: $14,655.70 to replace Meadow Lakes Senior Housing and Community Center boiler.

● Upper Susitna Food Pantry: $80,000 to provide food, fuel and hygiene-related assistance for Mat-Su residents in need.

Information about all Mat-Su Health Foundation grant programs is available at healthymatsu.org. Applications for all grants are available online and open year-round.
​​​​​

Mat-Su Food Bank

Mat-Su Food Bank

Contributed by Lauralynn Robinson

It’s official!  After 36 years, the MatSu Food Bank Pantry, Offices and Warehouse are now in the same location.  Our new location is:  5099 East Blue Lupine Drive, Wasilla, AK. 99654, (between Hyer Road & Seward Meridian, off the Parks Highway).  By having the pantry, offices and warehouse in one location, we are better situated to serve our community in their ongoing need to combat food insecurity.  We are extremely “Thankful” to our staff, all of the volunteers, and community for your help and support to make this dream happen!

Our hours of operation are still the same:  10:00am to 1:00pm, Monday through Friday.  Please come by and visit the new location, and keep in mind we are in need of food, personal hygiene items, and monetary donations, so that we can continue to serve our community!  Our Board of Directors is planning an Open House/Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for later this summer.  Be sure to follow us on https://www.facebook.com/MatSuFoodBank, for updates on day and time.

We are truly grateful for all the resources available to help our wonderful community.  Remember: No One should go hungry! Please take a minute to visit our web pagehttps://www.matsufoodbank.org. You can also follow us on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/MatSuFoodBank.  

See the many ways you can contribute, by volunteering and making donations, help us help our community. Please contact us at (907)357-3769 to schedule time to volunteer, or for more information concerning donations…Or for other questions call United Way’s 211. Thank You for all your continued support, we deeply appreciate our community!

Mat-Su Concert Band Performs “Spring Fling” Concert

 Mat-Su Concert Band Performs “Spring Fling” Concert

Contributed by Drewcilla S Holifield

From Sousa marches to a sprightly waltz and movie music, the Mat-Su Concert Band’s May concert features a range of lively tunes to celebrate this all-too-brief season in Alaska.

The “Spring Fling” concert takes place at 7:30 p.m. Saturday May 6 at the Glenn Massay Theater at Mat-Su College. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $5 for students. Children under 5 get in free. Tickets can be purchased online at www.matsuconcertband.org.

The band, more than 60 musicians under the baton of director Gleo Huyck, is composed of community members from all walks of life: teachers and business owners, accountants and librarians. 

This concert features two popular marches by John Philip Sousa as well as Leroy Anderson’s “Belle of the Ball”, viewed by the composer as something of a modern-day revitalization of the classic Viennese waltz with a main theme that hints more of Tchaikovsky as “evident in its playful, fantasy-like character,” according to program notes by Robert Cummings. 

Movies and musicals get billing on the program as well. A “Top Gun” medley includes various numbers from the 1986 action film centered on elite U.S. Navy aviators (the Oscar-winning sequel, “Maverick,” popped up in theaters last year). Leonard Bernstein’s “Somewhere” from the musical “West Side Story” has been called one of the definitive ballads of all time.

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Procession of the Nobles” was written in 1889 as part of the opera-ballet Mlada. After that initial project fell through, Rimsky-Korsakov completed it nearly 20 years later, creating an orchestral suite from the opera of which the procession is the final movement. The piece begins with a crisp brass flourish, followed by the processional itself, with a return to the march turn for the energetic close. 

Mat-Su Concert Band got its start in 1984 as the Mat-Su Community Band, formed by Matanuska Music owner Hank Hartman. Other directors have included Neil Long and Phil Munger. 

Current director Huyck is a retired music educator and private instructor. Under his baton, the band performs a wide-ranging selection of challenging music. The band rehearses every Monday night at Teeland Middle School.

Lobbyists For and Against Drilling in ANWR both Hide Pertinent Facts

Lobbyists For and Against Drilling in ANWR both Hide Pertinent Facts

Contributed by Ray Metcalfe

Just before President Biden approved the Willow Project, a couple of environmentalists and an oil industry representative debated the pros and cons of the project on KSKA Public Radio.

The environmentalists complained that the production and combustion of all that oil would release about 239 million metric tons of climate pollution over 30 years. While true, here is the thing: According to a Greenpeace Canada publication, published 17 May, 2021, "The amount of climate-polluting greenhouse gases emitted per barrel of Canada’s Tar Sands oil can be 30% higher than conventional oil." (310 million metric tons for the same amount over time.) Willow is low sulfur light conventional oil. 

Bottom line: -- Oil remaining in the Canadian tar sands will never run out. Canadian tar sand oil will fill any market demand we don’t fill with lighter oil. Weaning ourselves off of our fossil fuel addiction is going to take a while. Until then, we are going to burn oil from somewhere. Far better we burn more Willow light and less Canadian Tar. The environmentalists know that part, but they didn’t bother to mention it. The link below will take you to Greenpeace’s article.

https://www.greenpeace.org/canada/en/story/3138/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-tar-sands-and-how-they-impact-you/ 

Arguing in favor of Willow was Kara Moriarty, President & CEO of AOGA (the Alaska Oil & Gas Association). Moriarty was equally pontificating with no clothes. As she always does, over and over, she said how expensive it is to explore and drill, and produce on Alaska’s North Slope. On one hand, it does take deep pockets to play in the North Slope big leagues. But here is the thing: What Moriarty knows, but fails to ever mention, giant pools of oil, like Willow and Prudhoe, pools where drillers stick a pipe in the middle of the pool and let it flow, AKA the sweet spot, are no longer found in the lower 48. Fracking oil from rock is all that’s happening in the lower 48. It easily requires 100 or more fracking wells to match the big prize of one good North Slope well. 

The cost of producing a barrel of Prudhoe’s oil and delivering it to a West Coast refinery through a paid-for pipeline is approximately one half of what it costs to frack a barrel of Texas crude from a Texas field, and deliver it to a Texas refinery. -- Bottom Line: When found, the giant pools of oil on Alaska’s North Slope are enormously profitable, and because of people like Moriarty, Alaska, and you, have never received a fair share of those profits. 

Ray Metcalfe

RayinAK@aol.com

Lion vs Lamb

Lion vs Lamb

Contributed by W.S White

Spring sprinkling of rain water

Persuades the grass seed to be

Something more than just food

For the sparrows

They are made of grass

Storm heavy air

Then

A light

An alarm

Ceiling cracks

Fox glove opens

Then

Butterfly

Swallows

Limbocker Legends

Limbocker Legends

Contributed by Victoria Limbocker

Limbocker Legends are an amazing group of 6th, 7th & 8th grade students! Because Midnight Sun is a charter school that has multi age classes I have the privilege of teaching these students for 3 consecutive years, in turn providing a unique opportunity to build strong teacher student relationships and better understand my students strengths, needs, learning styles, and character. They will tell you that sometimes the best educational opportunities happen outside the classroom. Let me tell you about some of their adventures.

Last year my class had the opportunity to spend 4 days at Peterson Bay Field Station across Kachemak Bay. I witnessed first hand these young travelers experience firsts such as: seeing the ocean for the first time, riding the boat out across the bay while viewing wildlife, and identifying multiple organisms while tidepooling. Before the trip students researched various oceanic organisms. While exploring the tidepools students would yell out things like “ Mrs. Limbocker come quick, I found a sea sponge!” Watching the excitement on their faces was extremely rewarding.  

This year 3 days at Space Camp are quickly approaching. The class is headed to The Challenger Learning Center in Kenai. I am excited to see these inquisitive kiddos once again use background information they have learned throughout the year and put it into action in the simulators and workshops through the hands-on experiences that will be provided on this trip. Their hard work and dedication throughout the year has ensured that there is no out of pocket expense to parents. 

The task of earning enough money through fundraising will be a bit more challenging this next year. The last two years trips have had a focus on Science, to support my students to be well rounded learners, next year's trip will hold a focus in History. Our class trip for 2024 is scheduled, and the destination is Washington DC. Our curriculum has a focus on American History and it will be an amazing learning experience for all of them. I anticipate the day when as a class we stand in awe of places like The Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Memorial, or witness a changing of the guard at the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier.

As their teacher I organize and provide opportunities for them to fundraise and earn their way on these trips, but the stewardship, teamwork, and eagerness they display makes me more than happy. I am very proud of this fine group of hardworking students. You may be asking yourself, how can I help support these fine young students in their educational endeavors? On Friday May 5th Limbocker Legend students will be hosting a Cinco de Mayo Fundraiser in the Midnight Sun Gym from 5-8:30 and everyone is invited. Please take advantage of the opportunity to come out and not only support the kiddos, but come and meet them for yourself. They will be working (alongside their parents) all the booths at the event earning their way on this traveling educational opportunity. 

See you at Midnight Sun, Friday May 5th at 5:00!!! If you have questions please feel free to contact me at victoria.limbocker@matsuk12.us  If attending Cinco de Mayo doesn't work for you, keep an eye out. You will see Limbocker Legend students out and about in the community working our class booth at multiple events this summer.

LifeChangers Outreach Local Program

LifeChangers Outreach Local Program

Contributed by LifeChangers Outreach Alaska

LifeChangers Outreach Alaska is a local, 12 month long residential Christian ministry for adult men and women ages 18 and up who have problems in the area of drug and alcohol addictions, or any type of substance abuse. With multiple locations in 9 different states, we seek to help men and women overcome life controlling addictions and help build in them the positive qualities needed to become productive members of society. 

​​Our Program is carefully structured and designed to deal with the spiritual, physical, and emotional elements of addiction. Instead of focusing on the problem, we focus on finding the solution and achieving lasting and dramatic change in their lives. We believe that a productive, healthy life that is free of addiction is born out of a deep and true relationship with Christ. All the teaching, curriculum, and counseling are all geared toward directing residents to the cross of Jesus. Through Biblical teachings, we train men and women to act and respond to life’s challenges in an honorable manner according to scripture. Through our work program, we help them learn the value of hard work, a good work ethic, and strict self discipline. We teach them to obey and respect authority. 

​​​​​LIFE CHANGERS WOODSHOP

The students, under the supervision of staff members, learn how to plane and route the plaques and shadow boxes to specific designs. They are also able to learn how to properly mix and apply stain and paint. The students have time to develop different designs on computer software, and they learn how to operate a CNC machine. The woodshop is successful because students have the opportunity to be a part of the process from start to finish.

LIFE CHANGERS T-SHIRT SHOP

The students, under the supervision of staff members, learn how to operate a screen-printing ma- chine. They are also able to learn how to properly mix the paint. They are also taught how to design and build the screens for the shirt designs, and are taught how to properly clean the equipment and the screens. The t-shirt shop is an awesome opportunity because it teaches the students a vocation that could be added to their resume.

LIFE CHANGERS HEBREWS COFFEE SHOP

The coffee shop is a business that we have developed to give the students job training. The shop offers a full line of coffee drinks and each of the students are taught how to make each one of them. They are also taught workplace cleanliness. The students have to learn how to operate and properly log all of the sales on a cash register. Most importantly the shop allows the students to learn to interact with the public and teaches them how to interact properly with them. 

​​​LIFE CHANGERS STUDY PROGRAM

Each student is required to complete monthly academic assignments and participate in daily group studies which deal with topics such as: growing through failure, loving and accepting myself, obedience to man and God. Each student will spend approximately 25 hours a week learning how to better him/herself and drawing closer to God. ​​​​

​​​​​RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM​​​​​

Life Changers Community Outreach Center offers a 12 month residential program which cur- rently has locations in Tennessee, North Carolina, West Virginia, Missouri, Alaska, Oregon, Ohio, and our newest women’s center located in New Jersey. While enrolled in the program, residents are under constant staff supervision and accountability. During their stay, they do not hold down outside jobs, as all of their attention is focused on the program. Residents are required to participate in a number of spiritual requirements such as scripture memory, daily church and chapel services, and weekly outreaches. We challenge the residents to embrace the Christian faith. We see that when they do, their lives are transformed, and they find true meaning and purpose.

​​​​​OUR FOCUS

• Helping residents develop a spiritual life that provides inner-strength and a foundation for lasting recovery.

• Helping residents identify and replace negative and unhealthy core beliefs, resulting in a lasting change.​​​​

• Building good character through moderate discipline and positive motivation.

• Life skill development in areas such as personal and family relationships, self-acceptance, relapse prevention, social skills development, anger management, recreation, etc.

• Teaching the students to “give back” to their community and families by way of service and sharing their personal experiences to those who can benefit from the ministry. 

​​If you or a loved one is struggling with drug, alcoholism or any other substance abuse, please reach out and we would love to be there for you!

LIFE CHANGERS OUTREACH CENTER​​​​

• Alaska Women/Men Center: (907) 370-3374

Ley Lines

Ley Lines

Contributed by Caitlin M.S Buxbaum

A woman named Diamond says 

she comforts people in her dreams, 

and they know.

My great-grandfather, I discover,

came from a Croatian town of 64 people,

maybe. My father says, 

"These are people who didn't trust 

Governments."

Sometimes, I wonder if we aren't all

a little too much 

of who we used to be,

but not enough of where we come from.

Sometimes, the doors between worlds briefly open

KIDS CARE CLUB INVITATION

KIDS CARE CLUB INVITATION

Contributed by Kiki

BENEFITS OF CREATING ART WHILE NURTURING A CHARITABLE HEART

​​​​​The Kids Care Club, at Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Store, is a fun and expressive way to promote kids creativity and nurture a charitable heart by sharing their art and writing a cheerful message for a Senior to brighten their day.

​​​​​Whether it is a school break, church assignment or a rainy day inside, kids working on art projects is a way for them to develop artistic and other skills.

​​​​​BENEFITS OF KIDS CREATING ART

There are many positive attributes of creating art. Other than it just being fun, there are other benefits as well. It’s a wonderful way to calm the mind and relax during periods of boredom. Art builds fine motor skills when kids grip on crayons, pencils, paintbrushes, etc., it increases dexterity, coordination, and focus.

​​​​​KIDS CARE CLUB INTRODUCTION​​​​​

Draw, Color, Paint, etc. a picture that follows the Kids Care month’s theme for your artwork creation. Please turn in your pictures to the Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Store by the 15th. Your picture will hang in Turn-A-Leaf  until the last Friday of the month. Then we will distribute your picture to a Senior Center. Each month we’ll have a new theme that we’ll post on Facebook and inside our Turn-A-Leaf  Thrift Store.

​​​​​JOIN THE CLUB

Share the love of your creativity with inspired art created by you to brighten a Seniors day. Become a Kids Care Club member.

We encourage writing a special message for Seniors who will be viewing your picture. Please print your first name only at the bottom of your picture. 

​​​Turn-A-Leaf Thrift Store: 400 N Yenlo St, Wasilla, AK 99654​​​

For more information, please call 907-376-5733.​​

Protecting the Vulnerable: Alaska's Battle Against Sex Trafficking

Protecting the Vulnerable: Alaska's Battle Against Sex Trafficking

Contributed by MY HOUSE

Alaska has the highest rates of child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and addiction in the US. These problems are fueling the sex trafficking industry in Alaska, and it's time for action to be taken. House Bill 68 & Senate Bill 66 are being proposed as measures to help combat human trafficking in Alaska. The bills aim to put victims of sex trafficking first, targeting the demand for sex while increasing penalties for traffickers who force people into sex work.

​​​​​House Bill 68 & Senate Bill 66 puts victims of sex trafficking first, targeting the demand for sex while increasing penalties for traffickers who force people into sex work here in Alaska.

The proposed legislation would provide legal protection for trafficking victims and increase penalties for all forms of trafficking, placing the most serious classifications on those crimes that use force to traffic an underage person into sex work. The bills would also establish the new crime of “Patron of a Victim of Sex Trafficking,” making it a class B sex felony if a person solicits sexual acts with reckless disregard for the possibility that the person they are soliciting is a victim of sex trafficking.

In addition, the proposed legislation would establish a process for people to have their prostitution or low-level drug possession convictions vacated if the person is able to show they were a victim of sex trafficking at the time they committed the offenses. This would allow individuals who are out of the life of prostitution to remove the barrier of a legal history of prostitution to pursue legitimate, productive careers.

​​92% of trafficking victims were abused during their childhood, 2 and Alaska leads every major child abuse metric.3 According to the 2019 FBI Uniform Crime Report, Alaska’s rate of sexual assault is nearly four times the national average4 and our child sexual assaults are nearly six times the national average.5 When it comes to these issues our state is number one, but for all the wrong reasons.

​​​​​Legalized Prostitution Increases Human Trafficking SAY NO TO THE LEGALIZATION OF PROSTITUTION

​​​​​It’s been proven that countries that legalize prostitution have higher rates of human trafficking. According to a World Development study conducted in 2012 entitled Does Legalized Prostitution Increase Human Trafficking? “According to economic theory, there are two opposing effects of unknown magnitude. The scale effect of legalized prostitution leads to an expansion of the prostitution market, increasing human trafficking, while the substitution effect reduces demand for trafficked women as legal prostitutes are favored over trafficked ones. Our empirical analysis for a cross-section of up to 150 countries shows that the scale effect dominates the substitution effect. On average, countries where prostitution is legal experience larger reported human trafficking inflows.”

At no point has a kindergartener ever said “I want to be sex worker” when asked what they want to be when they grow up. Many participants in prostitution were sexually abused as children, normalizing the fact that their bodies were nothing more than an item meant to be used for sex. Prostitution is not a victimless crime. That’s why HB 68 and SB 66 are so important; holding the buyers of sex accountable when they recklessly buy sex from a child or a trafficked individual will help curb the demand side of the sex trafficking equation. Simultaneously, these bills empower survivors so that they can use their voice to testify against the individuals who have done them harm.​​​​​

What YOU Can Do to Make an Impact Email or Call Your State Legislators

​​You can find contact information by going to akleg.gov. This legislation is currently being heard by the House and Senate judiciary committees, so members of these committees are especially important to contact. When emailing or calling please include the following information:

● Alaska leads the Nation in Sexual Assault, (four times the National average)

● Alaska leads the Nation in Child Sexual Assault (six times the National average)

● 92% of trafficking survivors report being abused as children

● Data shows that high rates Sexual Assault and Child Abuse go hand-in-hand with high rates of Human Trafficking

● HB 68 and SB 66 help combat Human Trafficking in Alaska, and makes our state a safer and healthier place to live.

● This legislation is designed to help the most vulnerable in our state. Please DO NOT choose to play politics when it comes to this issue.

To make an impact and help combat human trafficking in Alaska, people should consider emailing or calling their state legislators. The proposed legislation is currently being heard by the House judiciary committee, chaired by Representative Sarah Vance, but as of now has not been heard by the Senate Judiciary, chaired by Senator Matt Claman. People can also get involved by joining the Alaska Stop Human Trafficking Alliance, which meets on the third Tuesday of every month via Zoom and collaborates with stakeholders across Alaska to find better ways to combat trafficking and better serve survivors.​

Introducing the 2023 Alaskan Scottish Highland Games Official Design

Introducing the 2023 Alaskan Scottish Highland Games Official Design

Contributed by  Clint White and Jeni McDaniel 

Scotland is one of a handful of countries around the world whose national animal is one of myths and legends. The unicorn has been the national animal of Scotland since the 15th century and while most around the world think of the unicorn as just a horse with a mono-horn out of its head, to Scotland and her people, the unicorn is far more than that. 

In Celtic mythology, the unicorn was revered for its white coat representing purity and innocence, the singular horn not present on other animals making them noble, and large equine stature and musculature showing their power and strength. Some folklore suggests that unicorns were the strongest of all animals and untamable except by the purity and innocence of a virgin maiden. 

In Scottish heraldry, the unicorn makes its first appearance on the coat of arms of the King of Scots in the late 12th century under King William I. In that coat of arms, is a pair of unicorns flying the Banner of Arms (rampant lion) and the Saltire (St Andrew’s Cross) while supporting the Royal of Arms. The unicorns themselves feature a few interesting attributes, such as, cloven hooves similar to that of the highland coo, long tufted tails similar to that of the lion, each collared by a crown connected to a chain and standing atop a field of thistles; the latter of which is possibly the most significant. Legend says that the crown collars and chains represent the Kings of Scotland possessing the prowess to wrangle and tame the immensely powerful and untamable unicorn. 

The unicorn officially became the national animal of Scotland sometime in the 15th century under King James III and is prevalent all across Scotland, from large statues atop structures, architectural features in buildings and subtle appearances everywhere. Beginning in 2015, the unicorn is celebrated worldwide on National Unicorn Day, the 9th of April. In short, the unicorn is not a cute cuddly little rainbow farting horsey but is a reflection of the unyielding voracity and gall of the Scottish people that has been driving fear into her enemies since before the 1st century.

Thank you once again to the amazingly talented Pam Clifton for once again coming up with an amazing Design for the 2023 ASHG. Pam said “He was fun to render.” She just loved spotting them out in England for my granddaughter. She was unaware of the history of the unicorn being Scotland's symbol (chains and all) before her trip. She was intrigued and found out more while there. This design will be featured on our event poster along with Merch available at the games!

Home Based Family Treatment

Home Based Family Treatment

Contributed by Reach 907

Home based family treatment is for the youth with a mental health, substance use disorder/diagnosis, at risk of developing such diagnosis, someone who is at imminent risk of out of home placement or who has been discharged from a residential or psychiatric hospital/juvenile detention facility. 

We offer…

● Trauma-Informed Treatment

● Assessments

○ Behavioral Health

● Trust-Based Relational Intervention

● Therapy for Individuals and Families

● “Wrap-Around” Services

● Community Recovery Support Services

○ Skill Building

○ In-School Support

● Intensive Case Management

● Level 1 Home-Based Family Treatment

○ Early Intervention Prevention Services

 Our hope is to step in and offer support before treatment measures are needed. Our goal is to work on skill sets and offer techniques to help families navigate through crises and difficult moments in youths' lives. 

​​What’s the Difference Between High Risk and Imminent Risk​​​​​​

High Risk, means a person with a score of four or more on the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire.

Imminent Risk, means a person who has been in contact with the department responsible for child protection regarding issues that could lead to out-of-home placement. 

​​​​​At Reach 907, Resilience Behavioral Health, we believe all people are valuable and deserve to be loved and cared for. We want to help change the trajectory of lives while strengthening families. We believe that strong families create a stronger community. We offer services to restore, empower, strengthen, and at-risk youth and their families through skill building, counseling services, and case management. 

"You are precious, you are more than your feelings, and your future is negotiable" 

"An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure" - Benjamin Franklin 

For more information, contact us at 907-745-6200 or visit our website at www.reach907ak.org

History Repeats - Dead Poets Still Speak

History Repeats - Dead Poets Still Speak

Contributed by Katherine Baker

Forming words, though no sound was heard,

the screams inside the people were.

In apprehension of the night,

There came a strange and deranged flight.

A winding, blood-soaked, rut-filled road,

with miles of stumbled, fallen loads.

The ghost of 'What Is Real' tread by,

deep hollows where there once were eyes.

His teeth were pressed together hard,

no breath arose from the barren bard.

Whose soul had dared to live his voice,

those words, the world, did not rejoice.

Isolated, surrounded by,

redefined, and narrative lies.

Activists, Party favorites,

organized and orchestrated.

Death's mind game trail he sadly strides,

his dazed stupor could not subside.

Free countries ruined-his tongue must tell,

those secret playbook games of hell.

Fake shadowy humanities,

and masquerades of sanity.

Constant noises of confusion,

giving credence to delusion.

Severe strategies and tactics,

extreme cruelties and theatrics.

They slew the bard when tanks rolled in,

for holding truth above their din.

Though canceled-hushed was not achieved,

the voice of the bard was long believed.

All those watching and those cheering,

had a victim for their jeering.

Caring not, as death was nearing,

but would they care, or be concerned...

If they had known their hate returned,

and they, themselves, in flames were burned?

Reach from the grave, surfaced the ground,

unshrouded, uncontained, unbound.

His slain, silenced truth EVER tells,

We've seen before, these Soviet hells.

Healthy Mama, Happy Baby: Elevating Your Pregnancy Experience

Healthy Mama, Happy Baby: Elevating Your Pregnancy Experience

Contributed by Dr. Josh & Bee Well Chiropractic

Aching back, sore shoulders, weak pelvic floor (AKA peeing every time you sneeze). Sound familiar? Sure, these symptoms are often written off as “just part of being pregnant,” but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through them for the long haul.

There are a few different ways to alleviate pregnancy pains—but what about seeing a chiropractor? Chiropractors are well known for treating things like back and neck pain, but can they help with discomfort related to pregnancy?

Read on to learn more about the safety and benefits of seeing a prenatal chiropractor.

A prenatal chiropractor has special knowledge and training around the pregnant body and common pregnancy-related pain and discomfort. Prenatal chiropractic also focuses more on the pelvis to help with pelvic alignment (which can help with labor and vaginal delivery) and to ensure there’s plenty of room for babies as they grow and invert in the third trimester. 

Dr. Josh at Bee Well is skilled in the Webster Technique, a method that can help support healthy pregnancies and births.The Webster Technique is a sacral analysis, diversified adjustment, and related soft tissue release for all weight bearing individuals and is utilized to enhance neuro-biomechanics in that individual. Through specific, intentional sacral adjustments our goal is to restore balance and optimize normal function of the sacrum and pelvis.

If prenatal chiropractic is something you’re curious about, you can get started with care at really any time in your pregnancy. So even if you’re into your second or third trimester, if you’re just finding out about chiropractic care, don’t feel like you’re late to the game. Although in a perfect world, [you] would start chiropractic care before getting pregnant, Starting the pregnancy journey with a balanced and strong pelvic floor and back is the best thing [you] could do to help minimize any complications or pain during the pregnancy. Therefore, the earlier the better!

But in case you haven’t put much thought into seeing a chiropractor until after you’re pregnant and have started experiencing some pain or discomfort, there is no better time to get under chiropractic care than right away!

Success Story

- This momma came to us suffering with SI joint pain. The pain was affecting her sleep,

comfort and overall daily activities. Her pregnancy goals were to deliver her baby naturally and at a birthing center. This momma saw us consistently her WHOLE pregnancy and we were happy to see her birthing dreams come true! We celebrated with her that her labor was shorter than anticipated & delivery was all natural with no interventions needed. She had an immediate connection with her baBEE and breastfeeding was successful! It's a beautiful thing to watch someone reach their fullest potential and we are just happy to assist with that journey in some way. ⁠

Hall Alaska Transportation: Story of Carey Hall

Hall Alaska Transportation: Story of Carey Hall

Contributed by Black In Alaska

‘I did everything I had to do to get here’

Take a close look at Carey Hall’s rig, did you notice what that quote says? “Running on faith, prospering by grace.” It was already on the truck when Carey bought it, but he has since adopted it as a company motto. His other favorite saying is the Golden Rule: “Treat people the way you want to be treated.” Carey’s respect for others, the road and the land have made him an admired leader in the trucking industry and the Anchorage community. 

Ever since he was kid, Carey knew that he wanted to be a truck driver. By the time he was a teenager, he had visited Alaska and knew he wanted to make it his home. 

“All the pretty scenery caught my attention,” Carey said. “Once I made up my mind that I wanted to come back here, I did everything I had to do to get here.”

He made his way to Alaska in 1984, and after moving to Georgia for a few years, came back for good in 2005. Originally from Louisiana, Carey said opportunities existed in Alaska unlike anywhere else, like working in the trucking industry — and driving the famed Haul Road. The Dalton Highway route is especially important to the state economy as it is the only way to move massive supplies and infrastructure between Alaska’s oil-rich North Slope and supply hubs in Fairbanks and Anchorage. Carey even appeared on the History channel reality television series “Ice Road Truckers,” which dramatizes the dangers.

Following in his dad’s footsteps, Carey built a career as a trucker specializing in oversized hauls — the big stuff. As a veteran in the industry, he has become an advocate for black people interested in long-haul transportation. Carey notices an increase in black drivers, up from the handful that used to haul loads in Alaska when he first started. 

“I can only remember about four or five of us black drivers,” Carey said. “We are out in a lot more places now. Even in Prudhoe Bay, there’s a lot of us up there working in it.”

Carey now owns a trucking company: Hall Alaska Transportation, with trucks that sport that faith-driven motto. As he builds his company, he hopes to continue inspiring more black drivers.

“What I’m doing is trying to build a future for my family and even other black drivers that want to come along,” Carey said. “That makes me happy to be able to do that.” 

Courtesy of Black in Alaska

A project of Rasmuson Foundation