Glass Recycling in the Mat-Su
Contributed by Lex Kerst valleyrecycling.org
On September 9th, Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (aka, VCRS or Valley Recycling) began accepting glass. This marks the first time in over 17 years that glass has been collected for recycling in the Mat-Su. VCRS has, on site, a “big blue” Andela glass pulverizing machine, allowing them to recycle the glass into a product right in Palmer.
Glass is collected outside, near the back of the recycling center— recyclers can visit the drive-through and follow signs and cones to the glass collection area. In the first few days, over 100 people visited to drop off their collections of glass for recycling. Blue glass is separated, and the rest is placed into barrels while they await pulverization. The glass fed to “big blue” is crushed, pulverized, and deposited as glass sand. Bits of
labels are spit out one side, and a water line keeps the dust down.
This glass sand comes in two sizes—larger, pebble-sized chunks or “cullets” of glass, and a finer mix of powdery sand and fine gravel-sized pieces. The cullets are sharper and larger, but retain more color and contrast from the original bottles. The sand ends up pale and fine, with bits of green, brown and clear dotting the powder.
After being crushed, the glass sand and cullets are available for purchase right next to the collection area. There are a multitude of uses for the glass sand, such as traction sand or “glascrete” concrete additive. As an additive to soil, it increases drainage and reduces compaction. As an additive to vermicompost, it can aid in the worms’ digestion. The sand is safe to handle and biologically inert, making it an option for landscaping and gardens.
To get the best idea of the consistency of the glass sand, it’s recommended to visit and handle the material for yourself.
VCRS is encouraging those that use the glass sand to share how they’ve used it and how it’s worked. Learn more or tell VCRS how you’ve used glass sand at valleyrecycling.org, on Facebook, at the office, or by calling 907-745-5544.
“Big Blue” Andela glass pulverizing machine.
Frequency of Hope at Bryce Ray Community Center
Contributed by Jason Manalli, Development Director, SetFreeAlaska.org
We are so blessed by the incredible response and participation at our recent community events on August 21: the open house of our new Bryce Ray Community Center (7010 E. Bogard Road in Wasilla) and the private screening of our documentary Frequency of Hope. Both events had different focus and impact. The community center is
the new home of Haven, our children and family services program. This relocation increases our ability to serve more children and families with behavioral health challenges by 70%.
The open house was a time to feature the new space, connect with our friends, community partners and local delegates, and cast vision for continuing to provide world-class service to those in our care.
The community center is named in honor and memory of Bryce Ray, the late father of Ryan Ray, co-founder and emeritus board member. Bryce left a lasting impact on many Alaskans, and it was his mission to reach people with the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ through sports and community engagement. Today, his life and legacy live on through our efforts, and we are looking forward to many meaningful community events and partnerships taking place in the new facility.
The same evening was highlighted
with the private screening of Frequency of Hope. This movie is more than a documentary—it is a catalyst and a cinematic banner for redemption and recovery, a rallying point for the movement that freedom from addiction is achievable on a personal, community and national level, and that hope can be found for every hopeless situation. It is based on one of our graduated clients who regained her life and children and went on to be an entrepreneur and force in the Mat-Su Valley. More private screenings are on the way, including one in Homer later this month and another in Los Angeles at the USC campus in November. As a result, we anticipate greater awareness of our mission and increased funding to expand our reach into the future. We are grateful for all who attended the events and for those who consistently support and champion our efforts through their dedicated partnership. Many blessings.
Wizard of Oz Trick-or-Treat Comes to Wasilla
Contributed by Crystal J. Nygard
Follow the Yellow Brick Road—Wasilla hosts its first-ever City Hall Trick-or-Treat on Friday, October 31, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Wasilla City Hall, 290 E. Herning Ave.
For the first time, Wasilla City Hall will open its doors to trick-or-treaters, inviting families to step into the magical world of The Wizard of Oz. This brand-new tradition offers families a safe and fun
place to celebrate Halloween together. Children of all ages are welcome to follow the Yellow Brick Road through City Hall, where they will meet Dorothy and Toto, Glenda the Good Witch, the Wicked Witch of the West, the Wizard, and even a few mischievous flying monkeys. Visitors will wander through Munchkin Land and beyond as staff and volunteers in costume hand out candy and help bring the classic story to life.
This free event is open to the public and designed to create a safe, familyfriendly Halloween experience. Kids are encouraged to wear their costumes and enjoy this one-of-a-kind adventure. With the Wicked Witch lurking and Glenda ready to guide the way, families are sure to find a little magic waiting for them at Wasilla City Hall this Halloween. Come join us!
