The People's Paper March 2024

Academic Scholarships Now Available!

Since the turn of the past millennium Anchorage Community Theatre (ACT) has become the best kept secret in our city. Since 2000, Anchorage has seen an increase in cheechakos and the emergence of new local theatres that catered to the community. However, rising out of the shadows has been a goal of ACT since the mid 2010’s. One of their most bankable assets is their over half-century-long historical legacy in our city. One out of several moments, is apt to be celebrated this month, ACT’s production of Our Town at AMU (Alaska Methodist University, now Alaska Pacific University) in 1964.

Anchorage Community Theatre turned 70 last Fall, making the company the longest running live theatre company in the state. And the board and staff at ACT have been making quite a big deal about that fact since then. Most of ACT’s season of plays has been about commemorating significant performances in its history.

Starting with Arsenic and Old Lace, which remembered for their 1957 production that brought Boris Karloff to Anchorage to star. This Christmas it was A Christmas Carol, memorializing the 1953 production that was part of its very first season. There was even a formal gala held at the Hotel Captain Cook last November, a sort of reunion of those who’ve been part of ACT in their own respectable decade, and a reflection on the origins of ACT by an armed forces production of South Pacific, and its continued relationship with the military at post in Anchorage.

Our Town is what’s to be next, opening appropriately in the month of March, since it was this same month 60 years ago that those the likes of Frank Brink, Robert Pond, and James Polsky, to name a few were going about their familiar routine of putting on another ACT play. The show had opened two days earlier, and was ready to perform another night, when at 5:36 PM, a record 9.2 megathrust earthquake hit South Central Alaska. According to Jim Polsky in a 2023 interview, the only thing that remained undamaged was the Our Town banner on 4th

and F street. That image of the demolished streets of 4th avenue with the banner of “Our Town” slung across earned a whole new meaning than just an advertisement for a local play. Its image remains the most iconic photograph of the aftermath of the great quake, and the banner to some, a symbol of a city in shambles but still hanging strong above it.

What is less known is the memory that Jim Polsky carries with him to this day. Jim was the lighting designer of the show that played at AMU Grant Hall. In his words, “It was Good Friday, of course, you know when the earthquake hit, and we were going to open that night. Well, needless to say, of course, that wasn’t going (to happen). But, by God, we opened the next Friday night, and the joint was packed! I mean, we couldn’t squeeze another one in.”

Not only does ACT aim to memorialize the events of the 1964 earthquake, but also the moments where the community of Anchorage came together, such as the reopening of Thornton Wilder’s Our Town. ACT will do this, 60 years later in a new production of Our Town, directed by Dean Brady with a cast of nearly thirty local Alaskans.

ACT’s Executive Director Matt Fernandez, hopes

medicaidrenewals.alaska.gov

New Quilting Shop Open in Palmer

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Man of Many Talents: Dan Twitchell

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Anchorage Community Concert Band

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Consign49 Spring Consignment Event

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OBITUARIES

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In Loving Memory of Nikki Marie Alto

Contributed by James Gainey

Nikki Marie Alto passed away on October 2nd 2023. She was 37. Nikki was born 5/16/86 to Anna Marie Pushruk & Vince Alto. Nikki was a very caring person who loved her family dearly. She let it be known, often saying “Love you” several times before actually leaving. She liked going camping, listening to music, spending time with and help -

ing family—especially cleaning. She worked at a laundromat, doctor’s office, Butte Cafe, among other jobs. Nikki was very spunky and outspoken with a big attitude and an even bigger heart. She will be missed.

Nikki was preceded in death this past year by her father Vince Alto, her mother Anna Pushruk, and her children’s father, Mark Cottrel Sr. Nikki Alto is survived by her three kids, Mark Jr., Little Nikki, and Mariah Hope

Cottrel. Three siblings, Kristy Allain, Michael (Mike-Mike), and Benta Alto, also survive her. Nikki is also survived by three nieces, Samantha Pushruk, and Danica & Destiny Almon, as well as loving uncles, aunts, and cousins. Nikki will always be loved and remembered; she left behind many good memories and times! A Memorial service was held on February 22 at Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Loving Memory of Joy Elizabeth Davidson

Contributed by John Davidson

Following a year-long battle with cancer, Joy Elizabeth Davidson, 47, died on February 24, 2024, at home surrounded by her family and beloved parish priest, who prayed with her up until her final moment on earth. An Alaskan for more than 20 years, Joy was a devoted wife, mother of eight, and a deeply committed Catholic. Throughout her trial, she grew in faith, offering her sufferings and prayers for others. Joy was born January 17, 1977, in Eureka, CA, to Don and Debby Menick.

An adventurous and joyful soul, she loved the outdoors, sports, road trips, wind surfing, hiking, and had a deep love for literature. Joy spent much of her childhood and adolescence in Charleston, South Carolina, and later studied philosophy at Wheaton College,

where she met and befriended her future husband, Joel Davidson.

Joy and Joel wed in 2002 and settled in the Mat-Su Valley, where Joel grew up. Not long after they were married, they were both received into the Catholic Church along with their firstborn child. St. Michael Catholic Church in Palmer has been the Davidson’s longstanding parish for nearly 20 years, and the family is deeply involved in parish life. There, Joy led vacation bible schools and women’s study groups, infusing the parish with vibrancy and passion for Our Lord. Their first child, Josiah, was born in 2003, followed at regular intervals by Noelle, Isaac, Elias, Charity, Patrick, James, and Michael. Joy homeschooled all her children, sending Josiah off to college in 2022 and Noelle in 2023. She

poured her heart and soul into her children, immersing them in the richness of the Catholic faith, classic literature, music, the arts and sciences, as well as frequent outdoor expeditions across the state.

Joy was also an accomplished violinist, performing with the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra and many other groups, including The Fireside Quartet, which she helped found. In addition, she taught hundreds of violin students over the course of many years.

Joy is survived by her husband Joel and eight children, as well as her parents, Don and Debby Menick of Charleston, South Carolina, and sister Crystal Spagna (Andre) of Kalispell, Montana, and Alli Durst (Will) of Summerville, South Carolina, and a large extended family.

COMMUNITY

Clean Air Challenge

Contributed by Jessica Fry

More than 300 hundred bicyclists, runners, and walkers will gather in Talkeetna, Alaska for the 40th Anniversary of the Clean Air Challenge on May 11th. The lifesaving ride will benefit the American Lung Association and their mission to improve lung health and help prevent lung disease.

The Clean Air Challenge is the largest annual fundraiser for the American Lung Association, Alaska. Each year we challenge Alaskans of every age and skill

level to join us as we ride our bikes and stretch our legs from the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge up the Highway toward the majestic Denali Mountains and back. Each participant commits to raising at least $350 in fundraising, but many go far beyond that point to help continue funding for the organization’s vital lifesaving work. The more money raised the more lives we save in our community! Participants that raise over $500 will receive a night stay at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge the night of the event and participants who raise over $800 receive

Contributed

supporting your local community members! Spring is just around the corner, and so is the 22nd semi-annual Consign49 Consignment Pop-Up Sale!

Consign49 hosts a community consignment event each spring and fall, in which over 300 local community members bring new and gently used clothing, accessories, and home décor items together to form a large-scale resale pop-up. Each consignor individually prices and prepares each item, and items are dropped off approximately one day before the sale

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a two-night stay at the lodge during the weekend of the event.

It is estimated that 240 Alaskans will die from lung and bronchial cancers in 2024. The American Lung Association’s work directly touches these patients, their caregivers, and communities. Saving lives through a pioneering model of research, education and advocacy, the Lung Association focuses on defeating lung cancer, creating a tobacco-free future, championing clean air for all, and improving the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families.

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy, and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future.

For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.

Learn more about the Clean Air Challenge on May 11th and register at www. cleanairchallengeak.org. or contact the Alaska Office at CycleForAirAK@lung. org. When you can’t breathe, nothing else matters.

begins. Consign49 Team Members then organize all items, so the wide selection can be easily shopped according to category and size. Featured sections for the spring events include furniture, active wear, and outdoor gear. In addition, the event includes a “vendor row” where local businesses will have booths for sharing their products and services. Consign49 is a smart, sustainable way to shop, earn money, and extend the lifecycle of high-quality items! Consignors are motivated to do some spring cleaning, while also earning some extra cash. Shoppers get to browse a huge selection of brand name and much needed seasonal items at a fraction of retail prices. Additionally, many items that go unsold at the end of the event will be donated to local charities in need. For the spring event, a large portion of donations will be going to the My House Foundation to

The

Contributed by Denise Statz

“Who Let the Girls Out”—Downtown Palmer Merchants’ celebration of spring, support for small businesses, and local commitment—will be held on Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27.

Local businesses will host events, welcome guests, and showcase their best offerings! Highlights include the First Annual People’s Choice Artisan Coffee Competition, a workshop on rug making from scraps, a quilt exhibit with a take-along quilt-making

technique, and Palmer’s famous cuisine. Connect with friends, enjoy the 8th Annual Fashion Show, and explore opportunities to support the local food bank and women’s shelter. Discover local farmland preservation efforts and discuss garden tips with a Master Gardener.

The activities and opportunities are way too numerous to list here (and people are still making plans), so follow your favorites on Facebook or go to the Who Let the Girls Out Facebook page!

Luna’s Magic Quilts & Quilting New Quilt Shop

Contributed by Susan Franznick

For a small town in Alaska, Palmer hosts a surprising number of beautiful shops offering all kinds of goodies to locals and tourists alike. One of the newest gems in the Mat-Su Valley is the recently opened Luna’s Magic Quilts & Quilting offering a variety of gorgeous cotton quilting fabrics, patterns, sewing notions, hand sewing supplies, and long-arm quilting services as well as locally made Alaskan gifts. The name “Luna’s” might sound familiar to you — Cindy Medbery, the owner and creative mind behind Luna’s, has been selling her quilts and art throughout the Valley at handmade markets since 2000. Nestled in a first-floor suite in a house at 11030 E. Palmer-Wasilla Highway, across from Equestrian Acres just west of Palmer, shoppers are greeted

with a rainbow of bright and beautiful quilting fabrics. Luna’s currently stocks a growing inventory of quality quilting cotton and features highlights of the ever-popular Kaffe Fassett, Tula Pink, and Moda fabrics lines — and is adding new fabric weekly! A wide selection of classic blender fabrics offers plenty of creative opportunity for complementing feature fabric selections. Sample projects adorn the walls and shelves and inspire visitors with their beauty. Pre-made kits are displayed alongside pre-cut fabrics. Browse the stacks of jelly rolls, charm packs, layer cakes and the numerous patterns available. A wide variety of Alaska-exclusive batiks is set to arrive this coming summer - be sure to check out the special fabrics!

Luna’s favorite sewing notions are on display, featuring scissors of all sizes, sewing threads, baskets for storing supplies, zippers, and hand and machine sewing needles. English Paper Piecing, a delightful and very portable hand sewing technique, is a popular option at Luna’s. You’ll find a variety of both acrylic and paper templates, silk threads, fine stitching needles, glue and free reference information - not to mention beautiful samples and even a scrap basket to pick from to get started! Wool work - ala Sue Spargo - enthusiasts will find a pocket of treasures available at Luna’s including a selection of hand-dyed wools, floss and even a few vintage block-of-the month kits.

Kenai Peninsula RV Park Finds New Life as a Food Truck Destination

Contributed by Aaron Conradt

Contributed by Aaron Conradt Moose Crossing Food Truck Park & Campground in Sterling, AK has been reimagined into a roadside attraction bustling with new energy and a laidback vibe.

Yes, it’s true, people don’t typically associate food trucks with camping and most people don’t think of RV parks when they think about where to find local food trucks. To be honest, it was a combination we had not considered until we found ourselves looking for a permanent location for our two food trucks. Completing our third season of operation in 2021, my partner and I felt that the next logical step was to put down some roots and find a more permanent location. A spot where our customers could easily find us when we were not operating at an organized event, but also a place where we could welcome customers to relax and stay a while instead of eating in their cars on the go. If you take a moment to think about it though, it really makes perfect sense. A food truck is a mobile kitchen with the same infrastructure needs as an RV. We require water, power, and a place to empty the holding tanks. We found exactly what we needed without knowing we needed it. At first, I scrolled right past the listing without giving it any consideration because it was so far outside the realm of what we

thought we were looking for. We were intending to buy vacant land and install our own water hookups, a septic system, run power to both food trucks and build a small building with storage and public restrooms. This property offered all those things and so much more. The park at that time was mostly hidden from the view of the Sterling highway and sat largely unnoticed for many years. If you did not already know it was there you were unlikely to notice it in passing. The original sign, a deteriorating wooden frame with a sagging, sun faded vinyl banner that read “RV Park and Espresso”, was less than inviting and suggested that the park’s glory days had come and quietly gone like one of Alaska’s famously short summers. Tucked behind the thick row of overgrown trees and unkept landscaping we found a hidden treasure in the heart of the Kenai Peninsula. While our realtor and our families thought we were quite possibly crazy, we could see nothing but opportunities and possibilities. The park itself was nicely laid out with 32 RV sites and offered all the amenities that travelers expect. Each site offered full hookups, water, power and septic and the main building included restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. All that was needed was a little inspiration and a lot of determination.

Fast Forward through a year and a half of sorting out financing, coupled with months of hard labor and coordinating contractors, you’ll find Moose

Luna’s offers classes and workshops on a variety of topics, including snow and ice dying fabrics, English Paper Piecing, art quilt embellishing & variations, as well as traditional quilt-making and more. Keep an eye on Luna’s social media for announcements of upcoming offerings, including how to participate in the colorful “Starstruck” 7-month Block-of-the-Month (BOM) suitable for the confident beginner sewist as well as experienced quilters, and the popular 2024-2025 Hoffman Fabric Challenge featuring a stunning array of eye-catching new batiks! Professional long-arm quilting services are available at Luna’s. The 12foot Gammill is well-suited to both custom and pantograph quilting designs. Cindy, Luna’s shop owner, has offered expert long-arm quilting services for over 20 years. Quilting and sewing has a long history in Palmer, and Luna’s is delighted to continue in the line of fine fabrics stores serving the Mat-Su Valley for over 50 years. A selection of Cindy’s quilts will be on display in the Koslosky building on Saturday, April 27th, for Who Let the Girls Out! Be sure stop by! Luna’s is open Wednesday-Saturday, 10:00am to 5:00pm. Join us on Thursdays for Open Group Handwork, bring a project and sit and sew! Follow Luna’s on Facebook and Instagram @cinmar3 or visit our website at www.lunasmagicquilts. com. Luna’s may also be reached at (907) 745-4011 or send an email to lunasmagicquilts@gmail.com.

Crossing Food Truck Park & Campground ready to serve hungry visitors, weary travelers, and weekend warriors. 2023 was our first season of operation and it was a whirlwind of adventure filled with plenty of lessons and connections with visitors from around the world. We hosted groups from Israel and China to New Zealand and even Ukraine. Perhaps the most surprising guests were those from various parts of Alaska that had previously stayed at this park. These guests were thrilled to see that new life had been ushered in to this formerly neglected spot. Our vision was to create a place for locals and visitors alike to take a break and enjoy some good food, good vibes, and good people. New this summer we will featuring some guest food trucks from around the state. Stop by and find your new favorite spot on the Kenai!

Moose Crossing RV & Food Truck Park is located at 33190 Sterling Hwy in Sterling. For the best RV rates book online at www.moosecrossingpark.com or call (907)740-0292 for more information.

One Foot in Front of the Other

Contributed by Debra McGhan

By the time Dan VanDerMeulen was 10 years old, he was leading a string of pack mules across the Sawtooth Mountain Range in southern Idaho following his father. As an adult, he came to Alaska to work as a Helicopter Ski guide in Thompson Pass near Valdez. Now he’s ready to share the lessons he’s learned throughout his travels to help others experience amazing adventures in the backcountry safely.

“I think my greatest attribute or skill is that I have a very strong will to survive. And I’m very good at taking people and tiptoeing through the mountains by managing the terrain I’m traveling through. I travel and guide others in a way that ensures we get to come home and do this over and over again.”

He sees himself as shaped by the lessons he gained as a child spending time with his father. “My Dad was a surveyor and spent years traveling and exploring and mapping the Sawtooth Range. I got to go with him a lot. But I think he actually wanted to be a rancher because he got these mules and I learned to work with them.

“Unlike a machine, mules start every day. And they are loyal and will carry your stuff and do lots of things for you just for some grain feed and an occasional scratch on the ears.”

For VanDerMeulen, life has always been about putting one foot in front of the other everyday, never knowing what is around the next corner. “I’ve learned that sometimes that fear of what might be around the next corner keeps people from ever going there. They miss out on so much.” He is confident he can teach people the skills they need to build their confidence so they too can love the experience. “My dad gave me the drive to seek adventure and I like giving that to others.”

For the past two years, he’s joined Alaska Safe Rider’s Executive Director Mike Buck as a coinstructor, traveling the Yukon and Kuskokwim Rivers to teach in the villages along the way. This year they spent 10 days traveling by snowmachine to 14 villages.

“We had an amazing trip in so many ways. The weather was good for 90% of the time, which (in Alaska) is amazing.” He said the week before they made the trek it was degrees below zero and the week after they finished there were wind gusts of 80 to 120 winds. Beyond the good weather,

people in the communities welcomed the team and expressed sincere appreciation for the training, helmets, and safety gear they distributed.

“Mike is such an awesome mentor because he totally has this program dialed. He’s really skilled at including local information relative to the communities he’s visiting. And we were able to give away a bunch of really valuable safety gear thanks to sponsors.

“One young boy, who won a helmet during the program, was in a really bad accident a few weeks after our visit. He would most likely have died without that helmet so this is really important stuff.

“And being able to see where you’re going is another absolute must. The goggles we awarded were probably the best ones many of these people had ever seen, let alone owned. So that’s another key part of this program.

“Mike has been doing this awhile now so he’s built relationships and gained a lot of respect. It’s impressive. Now that I’ve done it with him, I think I have enough stories, even if I use some of Mike’s, to be able to teach this and keep people engaged.”

VanDerMeulen describes his personal teaching style as Active Participant. “I want to get people involved. And I know I’m going to learn something in every class I teach. You just never know where it’s going to go, like never knowing what’s around the next corner, and I like that.” He says he uses visual aids like PowerPoint. “I really benefit from that because it keeps me organized so I don’t skip anything critical. And the images are so powerful.

“When I take people out in the mountains, I know to have a successful experience they have to trust me. So, I know I have to give them a good briefing. It’s the same way when I teach. I tell people what I’m going to tell them. Then I tell them. And then I tell them what I told them.”

If you’d like to experience a class with Dan VanDerMeulen and the Alaska Safe Riders education team, send in your request at alaskasaferiders.org/contact. T

hese programs are made possible thanks to support from the Alaska Department of Public Safety, Division Alaska State Troopers, Donlin Gold, Knik Construction, Lynden Transport, the Mat-Su Health Foundation and dozens of other sponsors and individuals who support and believe in this mission.

because it has not been updated since 2017.

There should be no doubt, we have to equip and arm our youth with vital information about opioids, especially Fentanyl. We cannot ignore the most recent report of the biggest drug trafficking bust in Alaska history. The U.S. Attorney of the District of Alaska along with their law enforcement partners intercepted large amounts of drugs, especially Fentanyl.

Yes, it is a crisis that is killing our youth. The New England Journal of Medicine reported that every week in 2022, the equivalent of a high school classroom’s worth of students-average of 22 adolescents-died of a drug overdose in the U.S., according to data.

In addition, drug overdoses are now the third leading cause of pediatric deaths. And 40% of those overdoses were due to youth seeking and self-medicating with drugs to manage their men-

tal health and trauma symptoms.

It is commendable that state government and public health efforts have provided lifesaving antidotes to an overdose with the distribution of Naloxone Kits and Fentanyl Test Strips. And there are clinics and centers that support medical care for the detoxification and treatment for an opioid disorder along with rehabilitation.

Now, the focus has to be on opioid awareness with youth before they experience adverse, dangerous and deadly outcomes. I strongly believe that opioid awareness has to consist of honest, current and accurate information to navigate and ensure they understand one pill can kill.

Due to the deadly opioid epidemic, it is a critical period to prevent drug use in youth not to only avoid addiction, but more importantly, to know one mistake could mean a fatal overdose and their death.

The time is now to implement opioid awareness in public schools by our state legislators to avoid a tragic death of a child with the loss and grief a family would experience.

I urge government officials, school districts, public health, and policy makers to realize we have youth that are at high risk for overdose due to the powerful synthetic drug Fentanyl. Fentanyl has contaminated heroin, cocaine, and meth, along with counterfeit pills like Percocet, Xanax, Oxy and even Adderall.

Now, the Drug Enforcement Administration has reported 7 out of ten counterfeit pills have a potential lethal dose. It only takes 2 mg of fentanyl to be fatal, that amount fits on the end of a pencil tip.

We have to fully embark on opioid awareness as an upstream primary prevention outcome to defeat this growing and increasing drug epidemic with Fentanyl. We have to save youth from one fatal mistake.

In addition, the Alaska Department of Education has to update the state health curriculum to reflect the most current and accurate drug education, especially regarding Fentanyl. Please consider calling your legislator to support HB6: Opioid Awareness in Public Schools.

Mat-Su Learn and Inspire: Cultivating Young Minds in Small-Group Classes

Contributed by Jessica Bertram

Welcome to Mat-Su Learn and Inspire, a nurturing educational business founded by Jessica Bertram, dedicated to fostering a love for learning and individual growth in a small-group setting. Let’s delve into the story behind this unique venture and the exciting summer classes that await.

Originally from Michigan, I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education from Grand Valley State University in 2015.

Passionate about working with children, I’ve traversed various roles, from nannying and tutoring to volunteering. This journey brought me to the public schools in Alaska, where I taught 4th grade in Homer and served as a trusted substitute teacher and paraprofessional in the MatanuskaSusitna Borough School District.

Despite my love for teaching, I yearned for an environment that allowed more personalized interaction, catering to individual needs while fostering peer collaboration. This desire led to the creation of Mat-Su Learn and Inspire, where smallgroup learning takes center stage.

At Mat-Su Learn and Inspire, my philosophy revolves around the transformative power of small-group learning. I firmly believe that children thrive in an environment that not only addresses their educational needs but also encourages collaboration and friendship. The mission is clear: inspire a love for learning, cultivate

individual growth, and create a sense of community within small groups.

As we transition into the summer months, Mat-Su Learn and Inspire is excited to announce three captivating science courses: Botany, Paleontology, and Marine Biology. Tailored for children from Pre-K to 6th grade, these courses promise a perfect blend of education and fun, ensuring young minds remain engaged and inspired throughout the summer break.

Each course spans four days, with Botany running from June 10th - 13th, Paleontology and Archeology from June 17th - 20th, and Marine Biology from June 24th - 27th. Priced at $200 for Botany and Paleontology, and $180 for Marine Biology, the fees cover all necessary materials.

What sets these courses apart is the emphasis on a small-group experience, organized by age groups (K-6th grade). This ensures a personalized and engag-

ing learning environment, with sessions lasting an hour and a half. Students can expect hands-on exploration, thrilling experiments, and interactive projects that make science come alive in memorable ways.

Session Duration: 4 Days (Mon - Thurs)

Botany: Jun 10-13 ($200 includes all materials)

Paleontology & Archeology: Jun 17-20 ($200 includes all materials)

Marine Biology: June 24-27

($180 includes all materials)

Classes will be conducted in small groups, ensuring every child has the opportunity to explore and learn in a supportive and engaging environment.

Meeting times are tailored to different age groups: 9:30 - 11:00 for 4th to 6th Grade, 11:30 - 1:00 for PreK and Kindergarten, and 1:30 3:00 for 1st - 3rd Grade.

Located at 1625 West Edlund Road in Wasilla. Visit the website matsulearnandinspire.com

Get Ready for Spring... Alaska Style! 4 Simple Tips to Get Ahead of Breakup

along with nature?

Declutter with Gusto: Bid farewell to winter gloom by decluttering your space with the enthusiasm of a squirrel gathering nuts for the season. Embrace the KonMari method or simply channel your inner Marie Kondo by joyfully tidying up.

From clearing out your closets to organizing kitchen cabinets, decluttering will not only make your space lighter but also renew your sense of joy and freshness. Ask of every item: Does this bring me joy? No? Be gone!

Bring in the Green: As nature comes alive, why not let the inside of your home mirror its radiance? Spruce up your space with vibrant greenery and fresh blooms, injecting life and color into every nook and

cranny. Whether it’s a collection of succulents adorning your windowsills or a lively bouquet of flowers gracing your dining table, incorporating nature will breathe new energy into your home.

Let the Light In (and Keep the Cold Out): In Alaska, sunlight is a precious commodity. Make sure to harness every bit of that natural light by giving your windows a good wipe-down (keep the cleaner ready to take outside when the time comes.) Swap those heavy winter curtains for lighter fabrics that let in the sunshine while still keeping the chill at bay.

Prep Your Outdoor Oases: As the snow melts, start digging out your patio furniture if you can and take stock of winter’s toll, Get the propane fire pit fired up or you

tower heaters. And remember, a hot cup of cocoa or a steaming mug of coffee in your hand can turn even the chilliest Alaskan spring evening into a magical moment.

So, there you have it, folks! It’s time to shake off the winter frost and jump into the welcoming embrace of spring, Alaska-style. Embrace the thaw, bask in the daylight, and get your outdoor spaces ready for some serious Alaskan adventures. Let’s make this spring a season to remember!

Are you ready for a move this year? These tips will help get your home ready to sell too! If you are needing a realtor, call me or message our team, Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Dream Makers, at www.alaskahomesforsale.realestate, ken@ bhgdreammakers.com, or at 907.891.8830.

Anchorage Chamber of Commerce Monthly Highlight

Contributed by Kendall Stewart

At the annual Summit, more than 200 young professionals attend a series of immersive sessions and panels presented by successful and experienced business, government, and community leaders. Attendees are fueled by a phenomenal keynote speaker, insightful discussions, and have the opportunity to connect with local experts. Content is geared toward all levels of employees and executives, and we welcome professionals from all industries. The Summit provides young professionals with the chance to elevate and step up their game in the professional world.

2024 Keynote Speaker - Alaska Lizzie!

Top 10 Finalist on MasterChef Alaska Lizzie, the vibrant culinary personality and community advocate embodies the heart and flavors of Alaska. With a zest for joyful living and a passion for creating meaningful connections, she curates immersive

Free

bus tours, crafts delectable recipes, and champions the spirit of local businesses. Alaska Lizzie warmly invites you to join her in celebrating the essence of Alaska through food, community, and vibrant adventures. Learn more about Lizzie at alaskalizzie.com.

For tickets, exact locations and times, visit anchoragechamber.org/alaska-youngprofessionals-summit.

Upcoming Events for the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce:

- 2024 Anchorage ATHENA Society

Luncheon (3/18/2024)

- YPG Social Mixer

Zip Kombucha (3/19/2024)

- Business After Hours

Nuvision Credit Union (3/21/2024)

- “Make it Monday” Forum

Alaska Board Match (3/25/2024)

- YPG Networking Luncheon

Bread & Brew (3/29/2024)

- Diversity Committee Meeting (4/3/2024)

-Military Committee Meeting (4/4/2024)

-2024 Alaska Young Professionals

Summit (4/4/2024 to 4/6/2024)

- Young Professionals Group Monthly Meeting (4/9/2024)

- Municipal Activity Committee (4/10/2024)

- Ambassador Council (4/10/2024)

- “Make it Monday” forum - Annual Anchorage Assembly Progress Report (4/15/2024)

- Spring Membership Orientation (4/17/2024)

Welcome, New Members! Anchorage Coalition to End Homelessness

Anchorage Society of Human Resource Management

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska Butterfly Jazz Intuitive Arts, LLC Case Financial

EcoDrain Alaska

Eric McComb

Hooman for Hire, LLC

Ken Hagler

Kristen Garland

LaborMax Staffing

Quality Screens

Sam Peterson

Tuck Electrical Services, LLC

Make A Scene Media

For over 100 years, the Anchorage Chamber has served as an important resource for members to gain business knowledge, insight, and strength as business professionals.

Joining the Anchorage Chamber provides instant access to an exclusive network of nearly 800 members. With membership, your company or organization can utilize broad marketing opportunities, connect with key policymakers, and enjoy discounted programs and events. For more info, visit anchoragechamber.org/membership-benefits.

Ken’s Cast Iron Kitchen: Terrific Tasty Taco Soup

Contributed by Ken Hagler

Two things to know about me to really know me. One, I love Mexican food and two, I am no fan of soup.

Contributed by Kathryn Swartz

Healthy Aging Program Officer

Mat-Su Health Foundation

Monday, April 8

Doors Open: 5:30 PM

Event Start: 6:00 PM

Reception to follow

Glenn Massay Theatre

This event is free, but tickets are suggested in advance to secure your seat.

Walk-ins available only if space.

Please join us for an inspiring fireside chat titled “Living Long Is Thrilling,” featuring Ayse Birsel, acclaimed designer and author, and Dr. Bruce Chernof, healthcare executive and former CEO of The SCAN Foundation.

Picture yourself with an extra 20 to 30 years of life ahead. How would you embrace this precious gift of time? How would you nurture love, define purpose, prioritize well-being, and cultivate new friendships? Ayse and Bruce embarked on a year-long journey across the United States to explore how older individuals envision and design their extended lives. What they discovered was profound: regardless of age, love, purpose, well-being, and friendship remain essential pillars of a fulfilling life. Together, they will impart simple, research-backed strategies for designing and embracing a longer life with optimism, not pessimism. Join us as they

delve into their groundbreaking work and take questions from the audience about their upcoming collaboration with the Mat-Su Council on Aging and the Mat-Su Health Foundation in Mat-Su. This discussion is open to all who seek to enrich their lives and communities.

Ayse (pronounced Eye-Shay) Birsel is one of the world’s leading industrial designers. You have probably held, sat in, or driven a product she designed—from office systems to potato peelers, concept cars, and smart toilets. Her work has earned her several

WRITTEN BY THE COMMUNITY www.makeascene.media PAGE 7

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Good News File – Hope for a Modern World

Contributed by D. Lynn Mickleson, MD

In a world that often feels heavy with challenges – at work, within our families, and in our personal battles – it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Dr. Lynn Mickleson, MD, understands this all too well. The Good News File - Hope for a Modern World is his testament to the resilience of the human spirit, an invitation to shift our focus from the darkness to the light that is also present in our lives.

Mickleson’s book doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the reality of life’s hardships. Instead, it offers a beacon of hope, reminding us that amidst the turmoil, there are still countless reasons to find joy and gratitude. Through a carefully curated compilation of uplifting stories and empowering quotes, Mickleson illustrates the transformative power of positive thinking. He argues that what we concentrate on can shape our reality – mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

If you liked Chicken Soup for the Soul, you’ll love The Good News File. It’s more than a book; it’s a companion for those moments when the light at the end of the tunnel seems dim. Here lies a testament to hope, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there are sparks of good waiting to be seen and celebrated. Join Dr. Mickleson in rediscovering the strength that comes from focusing on life’s beauty, even when it’s hidden amidst the shadows.

Bee Well Chiropractic Hosting FREE Event for Parents: Healthy Mama, Happy Baby

Contributed by Dr. Josh Bee Well Chiropractic

Are you a mom or dad to bee? We invite all parents-to-bee to join us for an empowering and informative workshop, “Healthy Mama, Happy Baby,” hosted by Dr. Rachel.

Date: March 29th

Time: Doors open at 9:30 am

Location: Valley Imaging

Our mission is simple yet profound: to ensure every woman has a safe and joy-

ous delivery experience. We understand the journey of pregnancy can be both exciting and daunting, which is why we’re here to provide hope, help, and answers to the women and men in our community embarking on this beautiful chapter of life.

During this workshop, we’ll delve into essential topics designed to support and guide expectant parents. From maintaining comfort during pregnancy to promoting optimal health for both mom

and baby, Dr. Rachel will share valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate this transformative time with confidence.

At Bee Well Chiropractic we’re dedicated to helping women have the best possible experience during pregnancy. Whether you’re seeking guidance on prenatal care, birthing options, or postpartum support, our team is committed to providing compassionate care tailored to your individual needs.

To sweeten the deal, enjoy light snacks and drinks provided as you connect with other families in the community. We bee-lieve in the power of community and the importance of building connections during this special journey.

For more information and to reserve your spot, please contact call us, 907745-2430. We look forward to welcoming you and supporting you on your path to parenthood!

StemWave Therapy: A Journey Towards Pain Relief, Tissue Regeneration, Surgical Freedom

Contributed by Dr. Jon Hinman

Phoenix Integrative Medicine, Wasilla

Hello, I’m Dr. Jon Hinman, and I’m thrilled to announce that I am the pioneering physician introducing StemWave Therapy to Alaska. I want to share with you this exciting, non-surgical breakthrough in medical treatment that is taking the medical field by storm.

Step into the realm of cutting-edge medical innovation where the limits of pain management and surgical recovery are being redefined. Welcome to the world of StemWave Therapy, a revolutionary approach that not only offers a beacon of hope for those battling chronic pain but also presents a compelling alternative to traditional surgical interventions. Let’s embark on an exhilarating journey into the transformative potential of StemWave Therapy, where the body’s innate healing abilities are unleashed with unparalleled precision and effectiveness.

Picture your body as a dynamic construction site, bustling with activity as it constantly repairs and rebuilds itself. At the heart of this bustling operation are stem cells—the master architects orchestrating tissue regeneration and repair. Yet, there are moments when these natural

processes need a boost, especially in the face of injuries or conditions that impede recovery. This is where StemWave Therapy steps in, igniting a spark within these stem cells and propelling them into action with breathtaking efficiency. Imagine specialized devices emitting gentle electromagnetic waves, delicately coaxing the body’s own stem cells into a state of heightened activity. These waves serve as a catalyst, inspiring the stem cells to swiftly mend damaged tissues and alleviate discomfort.

It’s like unleashing an army of healing agents within your own body, targeting problem areas with pinpoint accuracy, and restoring balance where it’s needed most.

StemWave Therapy holds boundless promise across various bodily domains: Joints, the crucial hinges of mobility, often bear the brunt of wear and tear from daily activities or sports-related injuries.

StemWave Therapy offers targeted relief to these overburdened joints, including knees, hips, shoulders, and elbows.

By quelling inflammation and fostering tissue regeneration, StemWave Therapy rekindles the spark of vitality within these pivotal structures, restoring freedom of movement and banishing discomfort.

Muscles and tendons, the unsung heroes of the musculoskeletal system,

are prone to strains and injuries that can disrupt daily life. StemWave Therapy steps in as a trusted ally, expediting the healing process and restoring strength and flexibility to these vital tissues. Whether recovering from intense workouts or grappling with persistent muscular discomfort, patients can bask in the rejuvenating embrace of StemWave Therapy.

Back pain, an all-too-common adversary, often casts a shadow over daily activities and quality of life. Conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease can be formidable foes. Yet, StemWave Therapy offers a glimmer of hope, providing a non-surgical alternative that targets spinal tissues to alleviate discomfort and promote healing. Say goodbye to invasive procedures and hello to a future where back pain is no longer a barrier to living life to the fullest. But StemWave Therapy’s transformative potential doesn’t end there.

It extends its healing touch to dermatological concerns and neurological conditions, offering relief to those grappling with chronic wounds, scars, or neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. With its ability to spur tissue regeneration and promote neural repair, StemWave Therapy opens doors to

Sunshine Community Health Center Offers Monthly Clinics

will be given a thank-you gift at check-out. Some of our gifts include winter hats, tshirts, sunglasses, exercise equipment, and more. We encourage you to call 1-907-3762273 (CARE) to schedule our monthly clinics at either of our clinic locations.

March 12th & 13th || Well Child Checks

services. We are committed to accessible, proactive, quality healthcare, promoting community wellness through outreach and education. Our vision is to become the healthiest rural area in the United States of America, and we are proud to offer affordable health care to our Northern Valley communities.

We want to thank our community members for prioritizing their healthcare needs. Each month we will have a different monthly clinic focus and those who schedule the specified services on the selected dates

Well Child Checks are preventive health care services that are recommended at different ages throughout your child’s life. Services include physical exams, measurements, vision, hearing, and oral health risk assessments.

April 9th & 10th || Medicare Annual

Wellness Visits Medicare Annual Wellness Visits are meant to enhance your health and focuses on your well-being through interviews and assessments of your lifestyle factors.

May 14th & 15th || Women’s Health

Clinic These visits focus on preventive care

for women which may include PAP Smears and referrals for additional services as decided by you and your provider.

June 11th & 12th || Men’s Health Clinic These visits focus on preventive care for men which may include PSA screenings and referrals for additional services as decided by you and your provider.

July 9th & 10th || Memory & Dementia

Screening & Treatment These screenings consist of a series of questions and/or tasks designed to test memory, language skills, thinking ability, and other intellectual functions.

August (All Month) || Sports Physicals and Well Child Checks Get ready for your favorite activities with a sports physical and a well-child check. We will also be having our Community Celebration part with vendors, live music, and good food on August 10th. Stay tuned for more information.

a brighter, more hopeful future for countless individuals worldwide.

In the realm of surgical care, StemWave Therapy emerges as a game-changer, both as a pre- and post-operative intervention. Prior to surgery, it primes tissues for optimal healing, setting the stage for enhanced surgical outcomes and reduced recovery times. Post-operatively, StemWave Therapy accelerates tissue repair, minimizes inflammation, and mitigates pain, ushering patients towards a smoother and more expedited recovery process. With StemWave Therapy by their side, patients can navigate the surgical journey with confidence and grace, knowing that a brighter tomorrow awaits. In essence, StemWave Therapy isn’t just a medical treatment—it’s a journey towards empowerment, liberation, and renewed vitality. It’s about unlocking the body’s inherent potential and harnessing it to overcome obstacles, reclaiming the joy of movement, and embracing life’s adventures with open arms.

For more information call Phoenix Integrative Medicine at (907)631-0794 where science and tradition meet for your ultimate health and well-being! Visit us in Wasilla or at pimAlaska.com

September 10th & 11th || Women’s Health Clinic We may also have the Mobile Mammogram and other classes scheduled on these dates. More information coming soon.

October (All Month) || Immunizations Talk with your provider about what immunizations you and your family should have and ask questions to understand how to protect your loved ones.

November 12th & 13th || Tobacco Cessation Learn about resources and make a cessation plan with your provider to help you quit tobacco use.

December 10th &

We’re more than a community paper! We also run 95.5 The Pass KNLT-FM, and offer other media services too!

Experience the Magic of Wellness Weekend

Contributed by Avalon Starling

Welcome to Wellness Weekend, a three-day healing arts festival dedicated to celebrating music as medicine for the soul – August 2-4, 2024 at Houston Grass Station Campground. Our mission is to provide a transformative experience where attendees can immerse themselves in the healing power of sound, movement, and community. Through a curated lineup of workshops, performances, and interactive experiences, we aim to foster holistic wellbeing, inspire self-discovery, and cultivate connections that nourish the mind, body, and spirit.

Basking in the ethereal glow of the late Alaskan summer, attendees of the inaugural Wellness Weekend found themselves enveloped in the serene surroundings of the Houston Grass Station Campground. Participants embraced nature’s serenity,

finding solace in the tranquil embrace of the birch forest and the soothing sounds of rustling leaves. With last year marking our humble beginnings, relying solely on word of mouth, the festival saw an incredible turnout of over 300 attendees—proof that the call for wellness resonates deeply within our community.

As we reflect on the magic of Wellness Weekend 2023, we look forward with excitement to the upcoming 2024 event. Throughout the weekend, attendees were treated to enriching workshops and seminars, empowering them to embark on their own wellness journey. From yoga and meditation to nutrition and energy healing, there was something for everyone to explore.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the sacred Cacao Ceremony led by Corazon Luminoso, where attendees sipped on warm cacao elixirs infused with inten-

New Hope for Stopping Acute Pain

Contributed by Terry Lemerond

and black sesame seed oil has been shown to be as fast-acting and effective as over-the-counter acetaminophen – but without the negative effects.

Curcumin and boswellia are already well established as pain-fighting herbs. Curcumin fights COX-2 inflammation – and modulates virtually every other inflammatory pathway as well. It has been used for reducing delayed onset muscle soreness, relieving rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, and alongside boswellia, has shown excel-

lent effects for individuals with osteoarthritis. Boswellia works primarily through the 5-LOX inflammatory pathway, making it a good partner to curcumin for pain relief.

And sesame seed oil compounds reduce anti-inflammatory responses that that cause rheumatoid arthritis joint damage, help increase type II collagen and prostaglandins, and prevent the breakdown of joint-supporting fatty acids. In clinical research, sesame seed supplementation decreased pain scores and relieved symptoms for patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Additionally, sesame seeds assist in nutrient absorption, which is one of the reasons researchers chose to use the oil from black sesame seeds (which contain higher levels of beneficial lignans phenolic compounds than white sesame seeds) to test this pain-relieving combination.

In a clinical trial, the combination of cur-

POLITICS & OPINION

tion and love. As the rich flavors danced on their tongues, participants felt a deep sense of connection to themselves, to each other, and to the natural world around them.

Drum Circles were held around a crackling fire beneath the starlit sky, creating a transcendent moment of unity and rhythm. Strangers became friends as they shared in the joy of music and movement, weaving a tapestry of unity and belonging that transcended language and culture.

VIP ticket holders enjoyed a culinary experience with private chef-prepared meals that celebrated health and vitality. And amidst it all, the sense of community spirit was palpable, as attendees from all walks of life came together with open hearts and open minds.

From the ecstatic dance party under the stars to the soothing sound baths amidst gentle rain showers, every moment of Wellness Weekend was a testament to the

cumin, boswellia, and black sesame seed oil was just as effective, and essentially just as fast, as acetaminophen for reducing pain – about an hour on average. In fact, the results regarding the relief of pain intensity and magnitude were so close as to be negligible in their differences.

That alone is reason to celebrate. Acetaminophen (one brand name is Tylenol) may be common, but it certainly isn’t safe. Consider these numbers: From 2008 through 2012, there was an average of over 100,000 calls per year to poison control centers in the United States due to acetaminophen. About 67 percent of those calls were because of unintentional poisoning, that is, most people were simply trying to relieve pain, and didn’t realize the danger of acetaminophen overdose or buildup.

What’s additionally interesting about this study was that the combination of curcumin, boswellia, and black sesame seed oil also reduced the negative emo -

power of holistic well-being and community.

Wellness Weekend 2024 beckons, promising to be an even grander affair—a three-day healing arts festival dedicated to celebrating music as medicine for the soul. As we eagerly await the unveiling of the festival schedule, anticipation runs high for another unforgettable journey of selfdiscovery and renewal.

Join us for Wellness Weekend 2024, taking place from August 2nd to 4th at the Houston Grass Station Campground. Get ready to enjoy music and movement, embrace healing, connection, and the beauty of the human spirit as we come together in community to prioritize our health and happiness.

Stay tuned for the official festival schedule, coming soon. Please send inquiries to support@thesoundspace.us.

tional aspects of pain 8.5 times better than acetaminophen, too. This is an extremely important aspect of pain relief; I think there’s no denying that emotions play a major role in how we perceive pain and how quickly we can recover from it. These ingredients are potentially even more effective if the curcumin is blended with turmeric essential oil for enhanced absorption, and if the boswellia is standardized for higher levels of acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), one of the herb’s compounds known for fighting 5-LOX inflammation.

But the bottom line here is that you can get an option that works as quickly as over-the-counter medicines without causing dangerous side effects. To me, and I’m sure to many out there seeking a natural solution to acute pain, this herbal combination provides great hope and true relief.

For more information visit All About Herbs at 4621 E Palmer-Wasilla Hwy #104 or call 907-376-8327.

Prohibiting Pornography to Minors and A Future Way to Safeguard Young Minds

Contributed by Staci Yates, My House

My name is Staci Yates and I am the Director of Human Trafficking Recovery Services at My House, the Chair of the Alaska Stop Human Trafficking Alliance. I am asking for your support of Alaska House Bill 254 “Prohibits Pornography to Minors.” Exposure to pornography is damaging our children; most kids are exposed online to porn by the age of 12. At least 1 in 3 porn videos now show sexual violence. Exposure to violent or rape pornography triples a child’s odds of experiencing sexual exploitation. I am a testament to that fact! I was exposed to porn at the tender age of 11. This led to hypersexualizing me at a young age, normalizing my sexual abuse as a child and lead me to become a victim of sex trafficking as a teen. Porn is a gateway to sexual violence, it is impossible guarantee that porn content is consensual – exploitation and trafficking are common

The Progress of Women

Contributed by Marilyn Bennett

This past Fall, my granddaughter played in sectional volleyball and really pushed herself to the limit. She is now on the basketball team and traveling all around Alaska. She is only fourteen and in Junior High so I am excited to see how she will do in High School sports. It is particularly important to me to see how far girls and women sports have advanced since my childhood.

When I was in high school back in the 50’s we had No sports for girls. I grew up with three brothers in a neighborhood of boys. We played basketball in our driveway, baseball & tennis in the park and I was never left out. However, in high school, I could only be a cheerleader while my brothers had the full range of sports. It never seemed fair to me. Interesting to note that in 1920 women got the right to vote and 50 years later in 1972, Title 9 was passed which gave girls the right to play sports in high school on an equal basis as

experiences in the porn industry.

Decades of studies from respected academic institutions have demonstrated the detrimental impacts of porn consumption on individuals, relationships, and our society. A shocking 53% of boys and 39% of girls believe that pornography is a realistic depiction of healthy sexual relations.

Alaska is just catching up with the lower 48 in protecting our youth. We need to put protection in place to limit our children from being constantly exposed to porn. We need mandatory age verification for distributors of porn on the internet. We need the ability as parents to opt out of pornography being included with internet service in our homes.

The use of hardcore porn in youth is linked to harmful outcomes such as mental health problems, child-on-child harmful sexual behaviors, risky sexual behaviors, and physical and sexual victimization, to understand this in more detail please

the boys. Then, another 50 years later in 2022, Lia Thomas became the first transgender to win an NCAA Division 1 title in the Woman’s 500-yard freestyle swimming event. One hundred years of progress for women to be taken away by a person who was welcomed into this world by his parents as a boy. He began swimming at age 5 and competed in high school swimming as a boy and was 6th in the state high school swimming championships for boys.

In 2017 he swam for the men’s team at the U of Pennsylvania and in the 2018–2019 season he competed in the men’s team and ranked 554th in the 200 freestyle, 65th in the 500 freestyle. In his junior year he decided to become a woman and by the conclusion of Thomas’s swimming career at U Penn in 2022, Thomas’s rank had moved from 65th on the men’s team to 1st on the women’s team in the 500-yard freestyle, and 554th on the men’s team to fifth on the women’s team in the 200-yard freestyle. Thomas planned to swim for the 2024 Summer Olympic trials as a woman, but the International Swimming Federation declared Thomas

see a report done by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation titled “The Most Dangerous Playground is Now in our Kids Pockets…. Hardcore Pornography on Digital Devices is Damaging America’s Children.

How do we protect our kids? An effective way the United Kingdom is protecting their children is by filtering adult content by default at the internet service provider level. Internet service providers have the ability to block out harmful content coming to your home internet and cell phones using ISP Web Filters .

By implementing these filters, the UK has created a safer digital environment for its young users, protecting the most vulnerable from harmful exposure to adult content. My question then is why can’t we do this locally? We have the technology; we just need our local Internet Service Providers (ISP) willing to implement it. We are currently reaching out to the Matanuska

ineligible as he had gone through puberty as a boy.

We are in a confusing time as the rules for transgenders in sports can vary from state to state. Here in Alaska a transgender can only participate in women’s sports if he/she started the transmutation before puberty. This new phase of gender confusion seems to be a growing trend in our society. This should not be political. If a person wishes to change their identity that should be his or her own private decision as most of us want everyone to be able to live their life as they see fit. However, when one individual’s decision impacts others it deserves a second look.

It really hurts to think that the time I put in marching, writing, and speaking up for girls’ sports should all be swept away today. To see this huge swimmer looming over the female competitors and winning the woman’s title is disappointing on many levels. I am a grandmother now and watching my granddaughters traveling throughout the state of Alaska competing with other girls. It is such fun to go to their games and see how fulfilling participating on team sport can be for a young woman.

Telephone Association to discuss what it would take for a local ISP to provide this kind of protection. In the UK all internet services come with adult content already blocked and the customers only have to Opt-In with age verification to the account and they have access to the adult content. I have spoken with many families around Alaska who want this kind of protection added; right now parents are forced to buy and install expensive equipment to filter out harmful adult content (and that doesn’t include cell phone protection!). We are on the right track with Alaska House Bill 254 which would hold publishers liable for distributing pornography to minors on the Internet. Let’s go a step further and request our local Internet Service Providers to offer their customers a cleaner, safer internet for our families.

Please contact your local legislators and ask them to support House Bill 254.

My mother was an adult before it became legal for women to vote. I was an adult before girls could participate in competitive sports in high school. I was in my 50’s when we achieved equal pay in the workforce. Now in my old age I do not wish to sit back and see women’s sports taken over by men. I fought the men who thought I was too fragile to participate in sports. I fought the men who were paid more than me for the same job and I will fight these men who failed at the man game and want to win in sports over my granddaughters. You may call them transgenders and feel bad for their confusion but don’t punish our girls out of compassion for someone who had just found a new way to cheat.

Half a century ago I marched for equal rights for women. Ten years ago, I celebrated how far women had come. Now I ask you to join me in the fight for the future generations of women in sports. Whether it is my granddaughter or yours, we must not let men take away the first-place trophy that took women 100 years to win. Join with me to continue the fight for our Girls!

Unchecked Access: The Push for Age Restrictions on Explicit Content

Contributed by Michelle Overstreet

Porn is one of the fastest growing addictions worldwide and the porn industry is a bigger business than Disney.  Pornhub, the YouTube of pornography, gets more global users than Amazon or Netflix. A recent report, “Teens and Pornography,” 73% of teen respondents ages 13 to 17 have watched pornography online - usually on a cell phone - and more than half (54%) reported first seeing pornography by the time they reached the age of 13. PornHub Insights revealed that 86 percent of the site’s traffic comes from mobile devices. Moreover, using smartphones to access free pornography online is the most

common means of viewing pornographic material (Herbenick et al., 2020; Ma & Shek, 2013). And how do they verify you are over 18? You just push the button agreeing that you are. Not kidding. Nothing but the push of a button and you can watch any kind of porn, free.

Try it. Go to a porn site and pretend you are a 12-year-old. Push the button agreeing that you are 18 and see what is available. It’s hardcore. No safe sex. No asking for consent. No saying “NO”. Dangerous, harmful, and degrading. If you don’t like what you see, call your legislator and support HB 254 which is a bill that “Prohibits Pornography to Minors”.

Six states passed this kind of legislation,

Freedom Means Choice

Contributed by Robert J.Shields

You are hereby invited to watch the live Open POTUS forums on March 20th and April 3rd on the YouTube Channel, hosted by the Green Party of Alaska. You can watch the first round from March 6th where Greens, Independents, Republicans, and unaffiliated candidates made their case to be our next commander and chief. By the time this goes to press, polls will be closed but over 60 candidates were invited, 10 committed, and next Wednesday at 4pm 5 will return by popular demand. The current frontrunner is Jasmine Sherman and many like what this big, bold, beautiful black non-binary person has to say about how we make things better when we lift each other up.

Some may wonder why Greens would give space to Republicans, but the reason is simple- we love democracy. For democracy to work, consent must be freely given rather than compelled. Unfortunately, “compelled” is exactly how most people feel about the apparently inevitable gen-

eral election for President of the United States. The mainstream narrative (since January) has been that this is going to be a rematch between Trump and Biden and if you pick anything else your crazy, stupid, or evil. These threats to our life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness grow stronger every day and we the people, feel powerless to do a dam thing about it. Enter the Green Party of Alaska, and our radical idea that people, not the parties, the corporations, or any shadow agencies should choose who leads them and how. In 2016, the fear of Trump being elected drove many people to abandon the party and join the Democrats in their pseudocold war against the Republicans. In 2020, the state party was unaffiliated from the national federation, along with a handful of other states, because we refused to decide for the people and in Alaska, the people chose Jesse Ventura and Cynthia McKinney. In 2024 the Green Party of the United States, violated their own values of grassroots democracy, created the Aurora Party, and railroaded Cornell West onto

Who’s Who – Anchorage Mayors Race

Contributed by Breck Craig

Who are the Mayoral Candidates for Anchorage? Dave Bronson is the incumbent. Evangelical Nationalist right wing. If you’re a Trumper he’s your man.

Bill Popp, former CEO for 17 years of the Anchorage Economic Development Council (AEDC). His job was to promote and attract business to Anchorage. He is the reason SpaceX, Tesla, Google Cloud

Data Centers, and so many other dynamic, cutting edge multinational businesses have opened up shop in Anchorage, NOT! While Bill shouldn’t take all the heat for a complete failure to attract new business, his track record does not bode well for being Mayor, probably just the opposite.

LaFrance & Tuck are lefties claiming their independents. Both are carrier machine politicians, so if you like how things are going and love democrats LaFrance & Tuck

and 16 more have introduced similar or nearly identical bills. This legislation has huge impact: When the State of Louisiana implemented a similar law, porn viewing was reduced in that state by 80%. And then the unprecedent happened: In Louisiana and the other states where the laws have been in effect for months — Utah, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Virginia — Pornhub simply stopped operating. Users in these states who attempt to visit the site are greeted with a safe-for-work video of Cherie DeVille (a porn star), clothed, explaining the site’s decision to pull out of the state. This is how we protect children from porn.

Alaska’s sexual assault rate is almost

the ballot. Dr. West has since declined their nomination and is now running as an independent.

The GPAK is financially supported by a business consultant in Fairbanks, a UPS driver in Kotzebue, and a disabled hemp advocate in Anchorage. We are not fulltime politicians but even we can see that the planet and her people deserve better. What we are, is committed to serve in the best capacity we can. And in the Alaskan tradition of “go big” we have resurfaced with a priorities list, an action plan, and the determination to make the best of what comes next by doing our part to ensure people have choices. A beyond politics zoom-based podcast called Green 4 Life, a series of march forward Open POTUS forums, a summer of momentum, and a call to action for ALL political parties to organize their own version of a constitutional convention (in an effort to recycle themselves into parties people actually want to join in civic union) are some of the efforts we are taking on as good stewards of the planet and to her people.

We are grateful to the folks at Free and Equal who are using ranked choice voting software to poll the breadth of candidates and, on a ramen noodle budget them-

are for you. The remainder of the candidates are real independents, including me. I am a citizen candidate, moderate independent with a degree in Political Science and an MBA. I’m running because I do not like the direction Anchorage has taken, nor where we are going.

If you want to vote for someone who is honest, smart, fair, and has a big Vision for not only Anchorage, but the entire Anchorage/Matsu Borough metropolitan area. I see a city that is new, intelligent, green, and growing. A world class city with

three times the National average and our child rape rate is SIX times the National average. If we want to stop youth perceiving one another as sex objects and help them to learn boundaries around sex, safe touch,s and relationships, we need laws to keep them safe from porn.

For better or worse nearly half (45%) of teen respondents said that they felt online pornography gives “helpful” information about sex. Meanwhile, The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers report that the Internet played a significant role in two-thirds of divorce cases, with excessive interest in online porn contributing to more than half those cases.

selves, organize in person debates all across the country. Without them, most folks wouldn’t have any clue there are other people running and buy into the narrative you have two choices-which is not a choice at all. As its also part of the democratic process to protect the rights of others to choose, we are making the investments to hold the space for these conversations in hope others will be inspired and stand with those 70% of the population that say “no means no” to a rematch of the silverbacks. The federal legalization of cannabis and the subsequent mainstream adoption of hemp as a US textile is our number one economic priority. The acknowledgement of the American Holocaust is our top platform issue. Mainstreaming the regenerative (resource-based) economy by 2030 is our plan to see Alaska leap forward to bridge the gap between the environment and economy. Hydrogen can end wars; holistic health care ends the poisoning of our food, water, and air; local living economies eliminate waste and produce practical sovereignty; and acknowledging the positive social and technological impacts Star Trek has had, brings a vision of hope for a better future. More at Alaska-greens.org

a robust international trade as the gateway to Asia and the Arctic.

That’s my vision for Anchorage. I promise to only hire the best and the brightest. Kissing the ring (loyalty above qualification) will not be required.

I also promise to clean up our streets, stop the rampant crime and violence by hiring the 60 police officers we are currently short. I will also prioritize fully staffing our prosecutor’s office (only 1/3rd staffed). I also promise no more back room deals. I will actively engage the Assembly and find common ground. - Breck Craig

What Winston Churchhill Thought About Writing a Book

Contributed by Evan Swensen

Winston Churchill, the prime minister of the British Empire during World War Two, must have liked writing books—He wrote forty-seven of them.

Many people are familiar with his fourvolume work, A History of the EnglishSpeaking Peoples.

In 1953, he was awarded the Nobel

In My Opinion

Contributed by Paul Johnson

At the end of November –’23, I had to visit Mat-Su Regional’s ER. Without going into too much detail it was a rather minor issue compared to a car crash or a stabbing or shooting. The whole visit lasted 45 minutes at the most. The Dr. who saw me was rude, inexperienced, and a traveler from Mn. The State needs to flag his PFD applications. By definition a traveling Dr. does not plan to stay in Alaska, a requirement for collecting a PFD. At the end of it all we paid $1,190 Cash, were given a receipt stating “Thank You for Your Payment” and sent on our merry way. It seemed like a lot for such a short visit but at least I was mended and on my way to recovery. At least that’s what I thought. To this day I still have only limited use of the limb that was damaged. But wait, there’s more. Nearly two months later we received a bill from Imaging Associates for reading the X-Rays &

Divided

Contributed by Jim Lieb

Congress has been asked to remove a president’s power to pardon offenses in Washington DC…. because Donald Trump “promises vengeance”. Seems to be never ending, another

Prize for Literature for “ his mastery of historical and biographical description as well as for brilliant oratory in defending exalted human values.”

But did he like writing? What did Churchill think about writing a book?

One of his better-known comments is:

“Writing a book is an adventure. To begin with, it is a toy and an amusement. Then it becomes a mistress; then it becomes a

writing a report. There was no phone call saying all is well, we’ll be billing you. No report attached to the bill, just the bill for $140. We paid it out of course but then my lovely bride called and asked for a copy of this supposed report and was told that she did not have power of attorney for me therefore the report could not be released to her. The person on the other end of the line then proceeded to tell her, the person who has no power of attorney for me, exactly how I could access the report on line! Keep in mind the Hospital and the Dr.’s Billing Service (in Mn. BTW) were perfectly willing to talk to my lovely bride when they sprung the additional bills on us I’m about to discuss. They haven’t gotten their money yet. The moral of the story here is getting the report before you pay the bill, I suppose.

Almost exactly two months to the day from the visit we received not only an additional bill from Mat-Su Regional ($840) but the Dr.’s Billing Service as well ($2,070). This comes to over $4,200 with the Hospital claiming over $4,500 being “written off” on top of that. Neither was itemized in any way, just payable on

Trump hater coming up with a distorted story of Trump’s actions and/or words. Is ‘vengeance’ the appropriate word when someone indicates that he is interested in having someone’s actions investigated.

Like with so many Trump haters, you have to ask how did they find out about these actions and/or words [of Trump] they claim occurred. Were they actually there with Trump when he spoke or did something? Did the media tell them in a

master; then it becomes a tyrant. The last phase is that just as you are about to be reconciled to your servitude, you kill the monster and fling him to the public.”

In other words, Churchill, the writer, was like any other author. He wrote anyway. He knew how his feelings about the project would vary. And he knew how the book would turn out—with writing The End and throwing it out to a waiting

receipt. Naturally phone calls were made and there was some empathy for our bad experience with the Dr. but ultimately we’re just the billing service so you have to start paying something on this or we’ll have to send you to a collection agency. The hospital was sorry we had not been informed that what we paid that night was “just an estimate” and the charges do seem excessive. I’ll check with my supervisor and see what we can do. Sorry, no soap. You’ll have to pay the full amount. I can send you some financial hardship papers though if that would help. What we want is an itemized bill of what we’ve already paid for and what you seem to think we still owe. They are willing to provide that so now it’s just waiting to see. In the meantime we have spoken with several people who have, to a person, had the same shady, deceptive billing practices befall them at Mat-Su Regional ER and Hospital in general. Being billed outrageous sums two, four or even as much as six months after the fact. This is not right for any consumer. You wouldn’t go to the Hotel Captain Cook for an extravagant weekend and fine dining, pay your bill, go home and two

newspaper, or televise a Trump recording? Did a friend or an associate tell them?

And then the really important follow up question: do you believe everything that the media, your friends, your associates tell you?

There are many people who have carefully followed up on reports of Trump’s supposedly bad behavior, and in many cases what they’ve found is substantial

readership.

I empathize after writing a couple of books myself. Our authors certainly empathize. You can read some of their stories in Becoming a Published Author.

Now you know what Churchill thought about writing a book. And he kept writing anyway.

We hope you do the same.

months later receive a bill from the Hotel for $800 in additional charges they forgot to charge you at the time of service, as well as another bill from the Hostess & the Wait Staff for an additional $2,000 because you were such demanding P.I.T.A. It is not the consumer’s fault the hospital can’t keep up with their billing at the time of service and one should be given at least a general idea of what the services will likely cost. They’ve addressed all manners of emergency in the past they have a pretty good idea. There is absolutely no transparency and everyone seems to just pull numbers out of their arses.

If you have had a similar experience with Mat-Su Regional Hospital or their E.R. please contact the Alaska Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Dept. as I have @ 1-888-576-2529 or on the Web. They will walk you through filing a complaint on line or by mail. It’s time to stop outside corporations from ripping Alaskans off. Please join the fight. The more support the better. There is no promise of compensation but let’s at least get Mat-Su Regional Hospital on Alaska’s Attorney General’s radar. Thank you all!

evidence that Trump’s words or actions have been distorted and revised with wording to make Trump look bad.

And yes, some readers will respond to my words with PROVE IT…. just like Trump supporters respond to the words from Trump haters, PROVE IT. When so called data is then provided, is the result something that most folks accept…. seldom?

So where does that leave us…. divided.

We’re more than a community paper! We also run 95.5 The Pass KNLT-FM, and offer

POLITICS & OPINION

Beyond the Ballot: Anchorage’s Journey to Empowerment and Unity

Contributed by Joshua McHoes

Alaska’s adoption of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) for statewide and federal elections marks a pivotal moment, particularly for Alaska residents contemplating its implications for local governance. RCV allows voters to rank candidates by preference, effectively addressing “wasted vote syndrome” and empowering voters to express their true preferences without strategic compromise.

The 2022 US House Ranked Choice Vote analysis illuminates RCV’s capacity to foster healthy competition, inclusivity, and representativeness in the electoral process. By reallocating votes from eliminated candidates, RCV ensures that the elected official reflects a broader consensus and promotes diversity among candidates. This adaptability to varied voter perspectives, notably including the distribution of libertarian votes, demonstrates RCV’s potential to enrich the political landscape by capturing a wide range of viewpoints.

This shift towards a more equitable electoral system is significant, as it underlines RCV’s role in mitigating vote splitting and enhancing competition. The method’s

impact on the 2022 elections showcases its ability to create a more competitive, diverse arena that aligns with the electorate’s preferences, signaling a transformative step towards more fair and objective electoral practices.

However, Anchorage’s and other local elections continue under a traditional voting system, starkly contrasting the statewide embrace of RCV. This contrast invites residents to critically evaluate the values and policies of local candidates, underscoring the importance of choosing leaders who advocate for both individual and economic liberty. The principles of free-market economics and minimal government intervention are essential for fostering a thriving, prosperous community. Transparency, community knowledge, and grassroots solutions are crucial in addressing local issues effectively. Centralized approaches often overlook the nuanced needs and perspectives of communities. Voters need to support candidates who advocate for solutions from within the community, emphasizing the empowerment of individuals and communities over heavy-handed government intervention.

Regarding law enforcement, it’s vital to recognize that increasing police presence and enacting more laws will not lead to safer communities. Such strategies will lead to a cycle of increased arrests and higher crime rates, fueling further demands for law enforcement funding. A more effective approach involves tackling the root causes of crime with community engagement and policies that balance individual freedoms with public safety.

As we navigate these electoral waters, the forthcoming municipal elections offer an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to liberty in all its forms. It is crucial that we, as residents, demand transparency, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to economic and individual freedom from our elected officials. By championing candidates who support these principles, we can ensure Anchorage’s prosperous and free future and united in its pursuit of a healthier economy for all Alaskans.

In this critical moment, our choices will shape our community’s future. Let us approach these decisions with the seriousness they deserve, advocating for an electoral system that reflects our dedication to liberty and selecting leaders who

Journey to Multiply the Loaves

Contributed by Ervin Malcuit Jr.

A few days before Thanksgiving of 2020, my wife, Brandy, stumbled upon a social post by a young man in Uganda named Yiga. Yiga had asked for prayer on an evangelist’s page sharing that he wanted to commit suicide. Brandy inquired of Yiga why and he shared with her that he and his younger siblings hadn’t eaten in 5 days and that it pained him greatly to hear them crying at night with hunger. Shortly before this, his father, who was the breadwinner for their family, passed away plunging their family into poverty. Yiga never asked us for anything other than prayer. As an act of faith, we buried in the snow our best, freshly baked loaf of bread and prayed that God would somehow get it to his family, whether symbolically, or in reality, and that they would supernaturally have food on their plates that very day. Hey.... we serve a God of miracles! We also wanted to know if there was a way we could help financially. This began our journey, and they had food on their plate that very day just as we had prayed! They had loaves of bread, maize meal, matoke (bananas), and even soda. The pictures and video he sent detailing his family’s gratitude changed my life! We began a journey of giving as often as we could and inviting others to do so too. This made a huge difference for their family. Thus far, we have helped them pay off their small home, purchase chickens for yearly meal celebrations, purchase

a male and female pig to breed and save up for a farm for them to become selfsufficient. Let me be clear: self-sufficiency is our goal. That, and blessing others which is something Yiga is always willing to do. And believe God to do impossible things, by Jesus Christ! Yiga will continue to be a blessing to his community, and I believe will become like a father to many children in his community. An Alaskan Pastor friend of mine introduced me to a young man in Uganda, Pastor Nuke, whom he had visited while on a mission trip. Life was very difficult for Nuke as a new father, Pastor of a small congregation, and Director of an orphanage. We also began to assist him and his wife with monthly support and helped them start a small store front until they no longer needed us. One of our projects was to help him build a new home for his parents because their old mud-home had fallen into a state of disrepair, becoming dangerous. His uncle had even passed away because of a home that collapsed due to erosion. They recently moved into the new home when it was still under construction with dirt as the floor and the framing bricks as the inside walls. This home does not and will not have running water or electricity, neither of which are common in their area.

A Modern Passover

Contributed by Brett Ahern

Passover is April 22, in remembrance of Israel’s slavery-to-liberty experience in ancient Egypt. Let’s review its background to better understand the occurrence of a modern Passover.

Passover launches the Spring season. Transitioning from winter to spring parallels death to life transformations, equating the slavery-to-liberty experience of Israel. On another level, Exodus casts the Creation in a new light. In Genesis 1 God took chaos and daily created order out of it, completing it by the seventh day. The Sabbath memorializes that chaos’ perpetual power is defeated by growing order, making life restful, a paradise. Our ultimate quest.

Exodus 1:7 states, “And the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed exceedingly mighty; and the land was filled with them.” The words fruitful, increased, abundantly, multiplied and filled; were also used in Genesis 1:26-28, in God’s commission of humanity’s mission. We can see Exodus is Genesis 2.0. Exodus sets up fallen humanity to live Genesis’ divine commission, our ultimate quest.

Here’s more about this. In Exodus 1 Pharoah told the Egyptians to deal “wisely” with the Hebrews, he enticed them to eat the forbidden fruit of slavery. The Hebrews were cast out of humanity, exiled from their Egyptian Edenic garden, into the wilderness of slavery as subhuman animals.

Two midwives avoided killing the Hebrew males at birth as Pharoah instructed and received God’s blessings for mastering their destiny. It’s Cain and Abel revisited. Later, Moses relived Cain’s tragedy: he killed an Egyptian brother, was cast out of Egypt, and became a wilderness wanderer. God later created 10 nature plagues in areas Egyptian gods controlled. They failed

to reverse the chaos to restore the natural order. God ‘uncreated’ Egypt to restore Genesis 1’s chaos. Exodus as Genesis 2.0 shows fallen humanity is primordial chaos, needing God to create a new world order. God birthed a new nation at Passover, Israel, and instructed them in their new world order in the wilderness. Then they entered His Promised Land, where He supported them in following His Way.

God’s frequent instruction to wilderness Israel: ‘Do not oppress the stranger, since you understand the soul of the stranger, because you were strangers in Egypt.’ Israel was to be a “love your neighbor” culture, not “the strong exploit the weak” culture. Israel shows how God recreates humanity, to restore Eden.

Recently, restoring Eden happened. Exodus informed Gandhi in India, Martin Luther King Jr in the USA, and Mandela in South Africa. Each led successful revolutions against slavery. Each created nonviolent movements and said they utilized Biblical insights. For King in the USA, it went deeper. He earned a Dr in theology, pastored a black church, and radiated the deep Exodus worldview that carried his people through cultural racism. He restored America’s moral compass.

Now let’s discuss a modern Passover in-process, the Israel-Hamas War. Is Israel confronting Hamas’ evil, and liberating Palestinians from Hamas, an Exodus parallel? God used various empires, like the Babylonian empire, in Israel’s early days to do this. He separated them from their own sin-drenched culture, developed under the influence of their neighboring “strong exploiting the weak” cultures. Hamas took over Gaza and created a “strong exploiting the weak” culture. Can God use Israel to Passover their neighbor Gaza?

Palestinians are ‘educated’ to see Jews as oppressors, while Hamas ‘liberators’ indoctrinate them to war against Jews.

embody these ideals. Together, we can chart a course toward a more vibrant, free, and prosperous Anchorage. I encourage Anchorage voters to reflect on the broader implications of their electoral choices. As we approach the municipal elections, understanding the impact of our voting system becomes crucial. This election cycle provides a pivotal opportunity for Anchorage residents to deliberate on the values and policies that will shape our community’s future. It’s a moment to prioritize candidates committed to individual and economic liberty, ensuring a governance model reflecting our shared aspirations for a prosperous, free Anchorage. As we navigate these electoral choices, we must reflect deeply on the core values that should guide Anchorage. This moment is about more than just casting votes; it’s an opportunity to underscore a dedication to a framework where individual liberty and economic independence are paramount. These decisions will carve out Anchorage’s trajectory, championing a future rooted in each person’s freedom and prosperity.

At most, they may have an extension cord that goes up to the roof with a tiny solar panel to provide for an evening light bulb. During the height of the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns in Uganda, we partnered with Pastor Nuke to provide food support to his community, which kept many from starvation. Huge stacks of matoke and other much-needed supplies went to families in need. Together, we funded the rebuilding of the main water fountain for a village that had broken down. He now has a car that helps him to transport his family and supplies to their community. He also preaches the gospel on a local radio station.

Six months into this war Palestinians still vomit volumes of decades of lies.

Israel, after their Exodus, went through the same thing in the wilderness. They faced decisive moments to trust God. They repeatedly turned down God and longed for the ‘good old days’ of Egypt. After a dozen episodes of this God paused the project. Instead, Israel wandered the wilderness for forty years until the slavery mindset generation died off. God knew He couldn’t build a nation infested with this soul sickness. Consider it. What needs to occur in Gaza for peace to finally develop? We did this to end WWII, with Germany, Japan, and Israel as rebirthed nations. How can Gaza repeat this?

Israel’s vigilance met the Arab Spring at the Middle East conference table. Relationships normalized between Islamic nations and the Jewish nation. Agreements were made and Saudi Arabia was next. This prompted a Palestinian decision. Does Islamic extremism end its racist war with Jews and return to the earlier part of Mohammed’s teaching: peace to all who show respect to his followers? Especially the People of the Book, the Jews, with God’s given land to live in peaceably, per the Koran’s teaching?

No. Hamas reignited the war. In Egypt, when Pharoah said ‘no!’ God pursued liberty. Pharoah decided a once and for all approach was required. God responded with three days of darkness, for Egypt to reconsider. They failed to get the message. Then Egyptian death was everywhere as Passover occurred. Hamas decided ‘no!’ to life with Israel, with a once and for all approach. Death gripped the Palestinians, whose joyous participation in this massacre and their cultural Antisemitism propaganda feasts ignited their due-process retribution.

Since Hamas is so physically integrated in Gaza, Israel had to decimate a part of it to eradicate Hamas. We don’t like the consequences of the depth of depravity and evil Palestinians created for themselves, but people make their own choices

and live with the consequences. But truth shows up. An illusionary worldview mushrooms ill-conceived fantasy. Their culture let brokenness multiply exponentially in their midst. And yet, the world still ignores the obvious consequences of truth!

World leaders are now pushing for the two-state solution again. We just tried a two-state solution! Even with Israel’s gift of total freedom to Gaza nineteen years ago, with no further Israeli management since then, Palestinian’s failed to use their freedom to grasp reality. Instead, they said yes to Hamas’ sweets that lured them into a death trap. And yet Palestinians are overwhelmingly against doing another two-state solution, because it allows Israel to live! Sick. Hamas is even now forcing starvation on Gazans to manipulate the world to hate Israel. Madness. We can’t be blind again!

Palestinian slavery led to a modern Passover event. Israel is fulfilling their role, responding as the decades-long victim. Israel, with centuries as a cultural racism target, now creates life’s victories and lives a ‘love your neighbor’ culture. It helps broken nations rebuild. Israel is where humanity’s ideal became real again. Israel is a modern Passover nation, proof that God can take a broken people and create a stellar world-class nation. Each Passover they evaluate God’s love for them, recommitting to His commission, the fruitful path to well-rounded prosperity. Let’s forsake the Palestinian fantasy. They showed us it didn’t work. Let’s treat them as real people: insist they live in truth, with the rest of us. Let’s call them to honesty and demand accountability from them, as life does with us. Let them demonstrate they heed the call and show they are established in God’s commission of really mastering life. Restore moral clarity! Show us the potential of Islam. Build a real nation. The world needs another world-class Passover nation, humanity’s ideal becoming real again. This is what we should support.

Gabula, Yiga, Nuke, Ervin & Yoseph, praying as we were departing Uganda

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Popup Health Clinic

Free Dental, Medical, and Vision Care to Anyone

Dr

Dental

Contributed Dr. Patrick Campaign

As a lifelong Anchorage resident and

I take pride in caring for my fellow Alaskans. Over the years, I have tended to thousands of people through medical eye examinations and volunteering. During that time, I’ve always wanted to do a large humanitarian event to help my fellow neighbors. After our first trial clinics last year successfully seeing over 500 Alaskans and over a quarter

Creekside Center Drive, Anchorage, AK 99504. This project was supported by a grant awarded by the Municipality of Anchorage and the Anchorage Health Department. All RAM services are free, and no ID is required. Free dental, vision and medical services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. The patient parking lot will open no later than 11:59 p.m. (midnight) on Friday night, April 19, and remain open for the duration of the clinic. Once in the parking lot, additional information regarding clinic-opening processes and next steps will be provided. Clinic doors open at 6 a.m.

Free services available at the RAM clinic include dental cleanings, dental fillings, dental extractions, dental X-rays, eye health exams, eyeglass prescriptions, eyeglasses shipped to you, women’s health exams, lab work, mammograms, and general medical exams.

Due to time constraints, patients should be prepared to choose between DENTAL and VISION services. Medical services are offered, in addition to dental or vision services, free to every patient attending the clinic. If you are interested in joining me in helping others, we need volunteers of all types, medical or nonmedical. If your church would like to help supply food for volunteers, please reach out.

For more information, to donate or to volunteer, please visit ramusa.org or call 865-579-1530.

Marching Against Colon Cancer: Prevention, Symptoms, and Lifestyle Tips

Contributed by Andrei Chakine

Executive Director, Alaska Health Fair

Marching Against Colon Cancer: Prevention, Symptoms, and Lifestyle Tips

Contributed by Andrei Chakine

Executive Director, Alaska Health Fair

It’s March again - the month when we ditch our winter blues, welcome springtime, and... talk about colon cancer? It’s not exactly the most thrilling topic for a conversation starter, but knowledge is power, and in this case, it could be lifesaving for you or someone you love. Let’s dive in!

What’s Colon Cancer?

Colon (or colorectal) cancer starts in the large intestine, which is an essential part of your digestive system. It usually develops slowly over time, beginning as noncancerous growths called polyps. Regular screenings are crucial because early detection can lead to successful treatment and improved outcomes.

Who’s at risk?

While anyone can get colon cancer, certain factors increase your chances:

• Age: Most cases occur in people over 50 years old

• Family history: If a close relative had it, you might be more susceptible

• Lifestyle: Obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and low fiber/high red meat diets can raise your risk

What are the Symptoms?

Early colon cancer often has no warning signs, making screenings even more critical. However, watch out for:

1. Changes in bathroom habits

2. Blood in stool

3. Abdominal pain and cramps

4. Unexplained weight loss

5. Fatigue and anemia

Minimizing Your Risks: Lifestyle Changes You Can Make Today

Here are some simple lifestyle changes that could make all the difference:

1. Eat your greens (and other colors too): A balanced diet packed with fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins can help keep those colon cells in line. Limit red meat and processed foods, which have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

2. Get moving! - Regular exercise reduces your risk of developing various types of cancer, including colon cancer.

So, lace up those sneakers and go for a walk, hit the gym, or dance like nobody’s watching.

3. Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of developing not only lung cancer but also colon cancer. Kick that habit to the curb!

4. Limit alcohol consumption: Overindulging in alcoholic beverages can raise your risk, so stick to one drink per day if you’re a woman and two if you’re a man.

5. Get screened: Early detection is key! Colonoscopies might not be the most enjoyable way to spend an afternoon, but they can detect polyps before they turn into full-blown cancer. Talk to your doctor about when and how often you should get screened based on your personal risk factors.

Early detection saves lives

The earlier colon cancer is caught, the better your chances of successful treatment. Don’t let fear or embarrassment keep you from getting screened. By understanding your risk factors, adopting healthy habits, and prioritizing regular screenings, you’re taking important steps towards a healthier colon and overall well-being. You’ve got this!

Join the fight against colon cancer by sharing this article with loved ones and encouraging them to get screened too.

If you have any concerns or questions about your colon health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional.

Screening Kits Available at Health Fairs

Helena ColoCARE kits are available at all events for $5. The kit provides an affordable and convenient colorectal cancer screening option. ColoCARE is a fecal occult blood test that detects pre-symptomatic bleeding caused by gastrointestinal diseases. It is easy to use, clean, disposable, and environmentally friendly. Please read and follow the kit’s instructions carefully.

March health fairs, which feature health education and affordable comprehensive blood tests are listed one our website at www.alaskahealthfair. org, with more events being added as arrangements are made. Schedule an appointment online or simply walk-in at any of our public events We look forward to seeing you at the health fairs!

Shabbat candles are lit by Jewish women and girls, as young as the age of three, 18 minutes before sunset or one and a quarter daylight hours before sunset, on Friday afternoon or on the eve of Jewish holidays. They light candles to usher in peace and blessings to their homes and to the

about the time for adopting a pet and the type of pet should be conducted long before the actual adoption. Certainly, the division of chores around the pet should also be a topic of discussion. Be prepared to do all the caregiving if your child decides that he doesn’t want to take care of the pet anyore. It is not the animal’s fault that the child has failed to follow through. The animal should not be punished because your child didn’t maintain his commitment, The pet should be considered a “family” pet and receive care from all family members.

One of the main reasons for adopting a pet is to foster a relationship between your child and the pet, particularly a dog. Dogs are so loving and generous with their time and love. This fosters a young child’s loyalty to a best friend. Young children can

be very selfish, and this relationship is a good example of putting someone else above yourself. As a young child, I always put my cats’ needs before my own. I continue to do so even now. My philosophy continues to be that my animals are as important as I am and it tis my job to put them first.

Teaching your child responsibility is very easily done with a pet. All animals need food, water, walks or outside time, grooming and training. As parents, we need to invest a great deal of time initially setting up schedules and checklists. After that, parents continue to monitor and model expected behavior. Remember not to punish the pet because your child has allowed a negative situation to happen. So that if a dog poops in the house because your child hasn’t walked him – the fault lies with your child and not the dog.

In terms of training a dog, if you are go -

ing through a formal experience, allow your child, if they are old enough, to take part in the training. This will provide your child with the skills necessary to train the dog and show the dog that he has to listen to your child as well as to you. It is truly a selfesteem booster to have your child work with your dog, and to see improvements in the dog’s behavior. I /always feel sorry for a child who hasn’t taken part in the training process. And then the dog doesn’t listen to anything that the child is asking him to do.

Also, make sure that your child has plenty of instructed play time with his pet. This will help strengthen their bond and learn about one another. I can easily say that the times I have spent with my cats and dogs have been the best times o mu life and it cherish those experiences more than anything in the world.

Alaska Animal Advocates

Woofstock: A Mutt-Lover’s Live Music Event for a Pawsome Cause!

Get ready to mark your calendars for the most pawsome event of the year - Woofstock! On July 13th, 2024, starting at 2 pm at the American Legion Post 28, you’ll find a tail-wagging extravaganza filled with furry friends, live music, delicious food, and booze - all for a good cause.

Woofstock is not just an ordinary festival; it’s a fundraising event benefiting Best Friends Animal Rescue. So, pack up your blankets or bring your lawn chairs (BYOC/B - Bring Your Own Chair/Blanket), and join the celebration of all things canine in this outdoor live music festival-esque gathering.

The festivities kick off with multiple live bands, promising a musical treat for everyone attending. Whether you’re a dog lover or just in search of a good time, Woofstock

guarantees a doggone good time with its dog-friendly atmosphere, complete with a doggie fashion show that will showcase the finest furry fashionistas in the community.

But that’s not all - indulge your taste buds with hot food, chill out with ice-cold booze, and explore a variety of local pet vendors to find the perfect goodies for your fur babies (or yourself!). This is your chance to meet the finest in the pet industry and discover unique treats and accessories for your fourlegged companions.

As an added bonus, the first 25 pups through the door will receive a special prize, so make sure to arrive early to claim your furry friend’s reward.

Feline Adoptions

Squash

Squash is a muted gray female tortoiseshell (affectionately referred to as “tortie”) born on August 14, 2023. The majority of torties are female and are favorites in many homes. Through no fault of her own, she was adopted along with her siblings and returned. Squash is the definition of perfect, sweet, and loving!

In addition to the main attractions, Woofstock will feature a silent auction, giving attendees the opportunity to bid on fantastic items while supporting a worthy cause. All proceeds from the event will go towards Best Friends Animal Rescue, contributing to their mission of helping animals in need across Alaska.

So, toss a blanket or lawn chair down, relax, and let the canine camaraderie begin at Woofstock. Don’t miss this chance to have a doggone good time while making a difference in the lives of animals. Come join us for a day filled with music, laughter, and the joy that only our furry friends can bring!

Contributed by Lisa vonBose

Hollie and Marie

Last of their litter and waiting for great homes, Hollie and Marie are two very social, very cuddly, and lots-offun girls. They would be perfect for families, as they are good with kids and dogs and can easily transition to a new home. Ready to explore. Hollie is a short-haired tuxedo, and Marie is a medium-haired tuxedo, about 15 weeks old.

Andy, Lucille, and Bert

Andy, Lucille, and Bert are super friendly kittens approximately 16 weeks old. These three little party animals are great with kids and other cats.

Feline Adoptions

Sauly

Midnight and Meow Meow

Midnight is a sleek little goddess who loves to chat and snuggle with her people. She is approximately 14 weeks old and would love to grow old with a family of her very own. Meow Meow is approximately 14 weeks old and is a very social, playful, and loving girl with short, silky fur who adores people and loves to fall asleep on your pillow.

Cassie

Lyra

Lyra is a 16-week-old very welladjusted, spunky, and very social girl who loves to be part of the action. She is super snuggly and would be great with kids.

Cassie aka Cassiopeia is the most stunning 16-week-old golden-eyed girl in the world. Sadly, no one wanted her as their Valentine, but her heart is ready for a loving home. She gets along with everyone and ALSO LOVES DOGS!

Please call/text Alaska’s Forgotten Felines at 907-632 4797 or to view all adoptable kitties and access pre-adoption forms, visit https://akforgottenfelines.wixsite.com/akforgottenfelines

Contributed by Kelleigh Orthmann

I am a beautiful green-eyed girl, about three years old, friendly, playful, and a total sweetheart.

I was found abandoned after a homeless camp moved on in Anchorage. I found a warehouse to take shelter in and was noticed by the workers who were kind to me, gave me food, and allowed me to remain sheltered. And

I am a beautiful fluffy orange teenager, about 8 months old. I am ready to settle into a loving family and be their sweet little boy. I started out really scared. I came from the Mat-Su shel-

I am a handsome young black and white fella. I will purr non-stop, and I want to snuggle and get pets all the time. I love to butt heads, and wind myself around your legs until you pick me up and give me ear scratches. I am a cat that just instantly loves everyone and gives you all my love. And I’m a talker; I will call out when I

then they realized that I was friendly and could be a pet. I was, in fact, desperate for love and affection. I love to be pet, make biscuits, and purr my little heart out while I am getting attention. I’m so happy to be in a home with loving people. I seem fine with other nice cats, but don’t yet know about dogs. I am ready to have a real home and family who won’t move away and leave me, and where I will be loved forever.

ter as a stray and was feeling kind of distrustful of people. But, after living with a really nice foster family, I have come to realize that a real home with loving companions is a pretty nice thing to have. And so, I’m ready to begin the adventure of a new life with a kind, welcoming family and at least one good feline buddy.

want attention! I don’t seem to be interested in toys and playing, but like being brushed and will even let myself be flipped over for tummy rubs.

I seem to do well with other cats and dogs. I may do better with female kitties because I seemed a little grumpy toward the boy kitty in my foster home. But, that could be just a personality conflict. I am an indoor/ outdoor kitty.

907-980-8898 clearcreekcatrescue.org

Contributed by Brenda Shelden

Mat-Su Council on Aging

Marching Against Colon Cancer: PreventioMat-Su Council on Aging Invites Seniors to “Design Connections” Workshops

A Free, Inspiring Series by Ayse Birsel

The Mat-Su Council on Aging, in partnership with the Mat-Su Health Foundation, is excited to announce a unique series of workshops entitled “Design Connections,” specially curated for individuals aged 60 and above. The series, led by the acclaimed author and designer Ayse Birsel, offers a thought-provoking journey through design thinking principles that promote optimism, empathy, and collaboration.

“Design Connections” is more than just a workshop; it’s an immersive experience where seniors can design a life of fulfillment and engagement. Ayse Birsel, known for her inspiring approach to life and design, will guide participants through a process of self-discovery, helping them to craft a vision for their lives that they can actively bring into being.

Workshop Series Schedule:

SERIES 1 - TUESDAYS:

April 9: 9:30 am - 2:30 pm

April 16: 9:30 am - 12 pm

April 23: 9:30 am - 12 pm

April 30: 9:30 am - 12 pm

SERIES 2 - THURSDAYS:

April 11: 9:30 am - 2:30 pm

April 18: 9:30 am - 12 pm

April 25: 9:30 am - 12 pm

May 2: 9:30 am - 12 pm

Participants are kindly requested to commit to all four sessions within the chosen series. Each session promises engaging activities, shared ideas, delightful snacks, and lunch in the company of fellow community members. Workshops will take place in a serene retreat space in Wasilla, with transportation and parking available to all attendees. This is a call to our seasoned residents to connect and contribute to the vibrant spirit of our beloved Mat-Su community. Please note, space for “Design Connections” is limited to ensure an intimate and impactful experience. To reserve your spot, we encourage interested seniors to reach out without delay.

To register or for more information, please contact Brenda Shelden at info@ mcoaging.com or call (907) 917-4600. We look forward to seeing you at the health fairs!

Childrens Area

We asked a lot of questions such as what is your favorite thing in the children’s section? One emphatic answer was a kid’s bathroom in the children’s area. When you think of it, this makes a lot of sense. We also saw a toddler play area built right next to a computer station in a children’s area.

Book Drop

We asked: “What’s the best part of the work area? One library staffer was quite clear that it was their book drop that comes right into the work area. This also makes sense. Palmer has always had a love-hate relationship with our book drop. It’s almost convenient for those dropping off books – except you have to get out your car to drop the books and staff has to trudge outside to retrieve the books. A wellplanned book drop would make many people happy.

Public Meeting Room

One thing libraries often do is proctor tests. This is where a college student, high school student or home school student needs to take a test that has a proctor administer the test. This was always a bit challenging to do in our old Palmer Library.

What size are libraries in other communities?

Palmer and Wasilla libraries have been the backbone of library collections in the Mat-Su for years. Our “twin-cities”

Wasilla Library - 24,000 sf 2015 new building

Soldotna Library 21,000 sf 2022 expansion/renovation

Kenai Library 20,000 sf 2011 expansion/renovation

Homer Library 17,500 sf 2005 new building

Ketchikan Library 16,726 sf 2013 new building

Palmer Library-1984 12,000 sf 1984 new building

have consistently served patrons outside our city limits. Consistently these non-resident library users run at 75 to 80 percent.

ognized by the Territory of Alaska Feb. 11, 1046. This was 5 years before the City of Palmer was incorporated. Community members banded together and converted the old Red Chicken Coop into the Palmer Library in 1951. That was moved to an extension in City Hall in 1967. Then there was the big push from community members to build a new library in the early 1980s. The effort was championed by Palmer resident Verna Euwer and the Palmer Library moved into its current location Januay 1985.

Below is a list of the locations of the Palmer Library with approximate square footage:

- 1930s Tent, United Protestant Church manse - 1945 Co-op Barber Shop - 144 sf - 1951 Red Chicken Coop - 600 sf - 1967 City Hall extension - 1,000 sf - 1985 Current Library - 12,200 sf

But how big of a library does Palmer need?

Last summer, my wife and I were down in Homer. We made sure to go on a tour of the Homer Library. It made us wonder what newer libraries (those built after our 1984 library) were like. So, we decided to pitstop on the way home to visit and get tours of the libraries in Kenai and Soldotna. Here’s some highlights of some of the things we noticed.

I have personally checked out our library’s public meeting room many times over the years. Not lately as since 2020 it’s been closed. Some because of Covid and some because of not having enough space. Some years ago, Matanuska Telephone allowed use of their basement meeting rooms for community groups. They have since reallocated those rooms for their own use. I believe having a meeting room available to community groups would be a great part of a new library.

The other factor is the library use of such a meeting room. The library staff was already using the Depot for different events. In browsing library websites online I would often find clarifications that meetings rooms could only be used after library hours. Library staff will easily be using meeting room space for story times, craft adventures and more.

Study Rooms

This was one of the things I noticed right away. The different libraries we visited all had a few study rooms available. Some were for 2-3 people. Some were for 5-6 people. Before you start imagining horror stories --- all these rooms have 2 or 3 glass walls so anyone can see what is happening in the rooms but with a glass sound barrier. Some of the libraries even had online scheduling so people could schedule a room ahead of time.

REDEMPTION Is Retail

Contributed by Juliah Barnett

The REDEMPTION clothing line and job training program is building momentum and hitting milestones less than a month after their brand debut at the 2024 TREND Alaska Fashion Show. Alaskans love the buzz on social media and the program’s mission to provide clients of MY House the opportunity to feel and heal through clothing design.

The team is excited to announce that you can now order your favorite designs online at redemptionapparelak.com and shop the full line of products at Bow & Arrow Candle Bar in Palmer

Why is this? Well, part of it that’s how librarians think. Libraries exist to help people and are designed to be free and available. Another reason is both Wasilla and Palmer have sales tax so people hanging out in our cities participate when they shop.

Gary Wolf Architects crunched numbers and came up with a projected size for a new library at 24,000 square feet. That would match Wasilla’s new library, but our Library Group discussed it through and settled on 20,000 square feet instead.

Here is a list of community libraries with the square

Cost

So how does Palmer do such a large project. Here’s some history of another large project with the city. We’ve had some issues with our Sewer Plant for years. In fact, from 2009 through 2023 we have spent more than $30 million on it. Of that $20.6 million was paid with grants, $5 million was city money and $4.8 million was for loans. That’s about 15% financed.

The city has received $5 Million from the State towards our library project. We are still exploring other grants and financial options. We will see how these financial options come together before we go out to bid for the project this summer.

located at 1747 N Chet Cir. Tuesday-Friday 12:00-6:00 pm and Saturdays from 12:00-8:00 pm.

Featured Design: The Lupine Hoodie

The Lupine flower is a symbol of happiness and having a positive mindset. At REDEMPTION, we believe that attitude is everything. No matter what lies around the bend, your journey will be brighter with a positive outlook and this purple Lupine hoodie design! Follow our journey on Instagram and Facebook @redemptionapparelak.

For more information about the services offered at MYHouse, visit myhousematsu.org or call 907-373-4357.

Thank you for supporting MYHouse!

The Bright Lights Book Project: Leaping into Literacy, Part II

Culhane

Contributed by Alys

Last month I wrote about the Bright Lights Book Project leap into literacy, and how we’re continuing to get salvaged books into the hands of appreciative readers. I surmised that book ownership and literacy, particularly as this relates to children, are complementary terms. I used the example of two children acquiring books at our Turkey Red bookcase.

Here, Part II, I’m writing about how we’ve remained consistent with literacy-related vision statement, which is “Envisioning the power of literacy to change lives.”

What comes to mind is the most recent BLBP event, held in the former banquet room of the historic Eagle Hotel, on Sunday, March 3, 2024. “Dogs, Dogs, Dogs,” was held on the day of the Iditarod re-start. And, not coincidently, we had several hundred dog-related children’s books on hand. Prior to this event, I placed our children, young adult, and dog how-to books on our new library cart shelf. When full, the cart also contained numerous Iditarod books, some of which featured illustrations by John Van Zyle. Funds for the purchase of this cart were donated to us by Alicia, Austin, Clark, and Beth Anderson.

I also put our new financial contribution box (made by Matanuska Woodworks wood worker Bill Schmidtkunz) on the front table, next to our informational handouts. This was our way of making an important distinction. We now use the term donation when talking about book acquisition and the term financial contributions when talking about funding support.

The afternoon began with the scheduled hour-long children’s story time. Former Elementary school teacher and BLBP Volunteer Lois Liebing read A Puppy Named Gih which was written by Sara Machetanz and Illustrated by her husband Fred Machetanz. This was followed by a reading of the book Combat Dogs by Ignacio White, age 9. Lastly, BLBP Project Manager Pam Huyck read Craig Smith’s The Wonky Donkey. This book lends itself to audience participation – the main character was (we all decided) a spunky, hanky panky cranky, stinky-dinky, lanky, honky-tonky, winky wonky donkey. And our imitation of his hee haws (I am sure) could be heard throughout the Eagle Hotel.

Gleo Huyck was scheduled to speak but was sick. He along with Joe Redington Sr. and Tom Johnson founded the Iditarod. Pam Hyuck and their daughter Heather spoke in his place. We learned that these three men spirited this first-ever, longdistance race into reality. The U.S. Army helped break portions of the trail, and with the support of the Nome Kennel Club (Alaska’s earliest, founded in 1907), the race went all the way

to Nome. The mushers, said Huyck, “had to break much of their own trail and take care of their own supplies.” The winner of the first Iditarod was Dick Wilmarth, who took almost three weeks to reach Nome.

Dogs remained at the forefront of the story telling event, as an open mic session followed. I did an impromptu book share and I talked about my interest in herding dogs, noting that my previous literary interest was the composing process of writers.

The second speaker was local artist Taylor York. He, in fact, painted the landscape mural that graced the Palmer Senior Center float in the Alaska State Fair parade.

Taylor held his audience spellbound as he spoke about his service dog Chloe’s ADA training, which took place in Wisconsin. (Service Dogs assist people with disabilities, allowing them to participate in daily activities, including the workplace. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employees have the right to bring trained service dogs to work). Taylor noted that his family members purchased the chihuahua for him, and together, the dog and owner moved to Alaska. We subsequently learned that when Taylor is in duress, Chloe, upon tasting the saliva that he puts on his hand during training, determines if he is experiencing heart problems. Each time this has occurred, Chloe has risen to the occasion.

So, what do the above events have to do with literacy? Ignacio read a large book that was maybe above his reading level. Lois, who was sitting next to him, gave him an assist by showing him how to hold the book and encouragement in sounding out unfamiliar words. His rapt audience also supported Ignacio’s efforts. Pam, in her reading of the Wonky Donkey included us in on the story. In talking about their Iditarod involvement, Pam and Heather reminded us of the importance of historical accuracy. In my book share presentation, I alluded to the fact that books (as they were in my case) can be life changing. Lastly, all the presentations, and in particular Taylor’s anecdotal account of his relationship with Chloe, reminded us of the importance of storytelling, an activity that connects us to those with common interests.

Mat-Su Kabayan Presents an Easter Egg Hunt March 30th

Contributed by Lhing McNeal

As winter bids farewell and the first signs of spring emerge, we invite you to kick off the season with boundless joy and a touch of magic at our upcoming “ Annual Easter Egg Hunt!” Gather the family and join us for an egg-straordinary event that promises fun, excitement, and a dash of Easter spirit.

Mark your calendars for March 30, 2024 Saturday and join us from 1 pm for check in time and an enchanting Easter Egg Hunt starts at 2 pm. Our chosen setting for this eggciting adventure is at Iditapark (Wonderland Park in Wasilla). With its open spaces, and fresh air, it provides the perfect place for an hour or so of family fun. Prepare for an exciting adventure as children embark on a quest filled with colorful eggs scattered throughout the grounds. Beyond the egg hunt, our little hunters will get a chance to win an easter basket that is full of cool stuff for each age category, make sure you get your raffle tickets upon check in.

Don’t miss the chance to capture the fun of the day with our Easter Bunny photo booth. Strike a pose with the Easter Bunny and take home a keepsake photo to commemorate the joyous event. Enjoy a variety of delicious snacks and treats available at our event. From Easter-themed cookies, hot chocolates and coffee will be available for you to enjoy. This hunt is open to the Palmer and Wasilla area and close by towns, and admission is free! Gather your loved ones, bring your baskets, and join us for a day of springtime merriment.

For event updates follow us on Mat-Su Kabayan on Facebook. Spread the word, invite friends and family, and let’s make this Easter Egg Hunt a fun community celebration! For more information you can email us at info@kabayaninc.com or text us at 907 232 5296 or check our website matsukabayan.org.