COMMUNITY
Summer Is Over, Now What?
Contributed by Derek
With the fresh snow on the Mountain tops, a chill in the air, and the leaves changing; Many may be wondering what is next in the world of the great outdoors. As many of us might be retreating to the great indoors for a long winter nap there are still opportunities to get outside and explore our great state. Our family enjoys kayaking underneath Pioneer Peak on the Knik River, seeing the mountains come to life in fall colors. To harvest vegetables, as a family, at Pyrah’s Farm because your summer garden failed. Let me be the first to admit my garden does not produce quite as well as their garden does, those pesky slugs!
One of our family’s other favorite fall activities includes going up to Hatchers Pass where we enjoy hiking, panning for gold, and picking berries. Another extraordinary fall time activity is going out to Denali National Park and exploring this icon after the crowds have left but before it gets snowed in. Getting outside this time of year is well worth braving the chillier days. The weather is
not bitterly cold yet and there are fewer crowds, as the tourists have begun to leave.
Alaska’s fall is short, if you blink you just might miss it. So, I would encourage you to get out and explore as much as possible. Take that trip you saw on Instagram that all your visiting family and friends posted about when they were here this summer. Grab a bucket and pick some wild berries before the bears eat them all.
Our long winter will be upon us soon. But even then, there are still some amazing opportunities to see our beautiful state mosquito-free! Mind you it might be a little bit colder if you wait too long! Reach out to Derek at Paddle Sports by True North AK today. They are happy to help guide you to the best products and services in our area. From outdoor gear rentals to guided tours and classes, they have the gear and the expertise to make the most of your Alaska trip! They can be reached at at reservations@adventurealaska. net or by phone 907-691-8909.
Building a Dream at Boyd Bison Ranch
Contributed by Amanda Lee
Boyd Bison Ranch
I t was my third day working as a ranch intern when Adam Boyd took me to the lake. We slipped and slid down to the lake in the spring mud, and he shared the rich, 85-year history of this now 420-acre homestead. The lake was conceptualized by his father, Robert Samuel Boyd. Despite being told that it would never work, Robert did not let the nay sayers deter him. It took 7 years for the lake to fill, and it became the heart of the homestead.
Robert loved nothing more than to give tours of the ranch – even to strangers he’d meet at a restaurant or gas station. All were welcome. He would tell them the story of how his family came to Alaska in the late 1930’s, the struggles of Alaskan farming, as well as tales of hunting and trapping. As we stood on the edge of the lake feeding swans, as so many visitors had before, Adam shared his plans for a wedding and event center at the lake. Coming from the California wine country and planning events at large winery venues, it was not hard for me to see the potential. I stared out upon the natural and undeveloped area around the lake, and I assumed that we were discussing a 5-7 year plan – but that was before I really knew the Boyd’s.
At the end of our 10-hour workday, Mr. Boyd would ask the crew about their plans for the evening while he loaded his chainsaw onto the back of his truck. My plans were those typical of an Alaskan mom – feeding kids and watering a garden – but his evening plans
were always the same: cut trees and clear land for the pavilion. By the end of September 2022, the 88’ x 32’ log pavilion was completed. In 2023 our modest crew of three added an additional 20’x 40’ log pavilion, 3,200 sqft of concrete, a parking lot to accommodate 400+ guests, and a fully functional restroom facility, including showers for our overnight guests. 2023 was the soft opening of the venue and we were pleased to host four events, and our 2024 calendar is filling quickly.
The venue is only one of the things happening at Boyd Bison Ranch. The real meat and potatoes of the operation is still, well – meat and potatoes. In the spring, the Boyd’s broker and distribute seed potatoes to various retailers across Alaska, and in the fall, they sell whole bison. The herd of roughly 70 bison do not require much, as they roam free on over 180 wooded acres living as wild and free as a meat animal can.
The demand for natural, ethically raised, sustainable meat has skyrocketed in recent years. 2023 is proving to be no exception, and we are down to only 24 animals available to reserve for fall harvest. If you’re looking for a low fat, low cholesterol, and nutrient-dense meat to incorporate as a regular part of your diet, look no further than bison. For most people, the flavor of bison meat is indistinguishable from beef. With significantly less fat and calories than beef, bison also has a higher protein density. A serving of grass-fed bison has three to six times the amount of Omega-3s as that of grain-fed animals. You can learn more about the herd and
find instructions for reserving an animal at www.boydsbison.com!
Whether you’re looking to fill your freezer, or fulfill your ranch wedding dreams, we hope to see you at Boyd Bison Ranch. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on all of the new and exciting things happening at the ranch!
COMMUNITY
Alaska Car Crushing: Tow Trucks Shaping Environmental Impacts
Contributed by Jasmine Otis
In the heart of the Last Frontier, where towering mountains meet the endless ocean, one company has been quietly making its mark on both the Alaskan landscape and the world of eco-conscious business. Founded over two and a half decades ago, Alaska Car Crushing & Recycling has emerged as a leader in the automotive recycling industry in Alaska, by seamlessly blending environmental responsibility with economic efficiency.
A Humble Beginning: Founder, Gary Jacobsen, envisioned a business that would not only cater to the local community’s needs but also contribute positively to the environment. Washington-born and raised, Jacobsen witnessed firsthand the environmental challenges posed by abandoned vehicles & towing services needed by the local community. Building his first tow truck by hand at the age of 19 and maximizing every opportunity presented to him, he moved to Alaska. Jacobsen opened the doors to Wolverine Towing in 1990. Initially, serving the Mat-Su Valley and surrounding areas for towing services such as: lock outs, straight tows, & flat tire changes. All while working alongside Emergency First Responders. Jacobsen then opened multiple tow companies which he later combined and turned into the mother company, Alaska Car Crushing & Recycling. With a vision to promote responsible recycling and environmental conservation his dream then became a reality.
A Commitment to Sustainability: From the start, Alaska Car Crushing was committed to environmental sustainability. With advanced recycling techniques to ensure minimal waste and pollution. A state-of-the-art crushing facility with heavy equipment and fluid containment ensures responsible recycling. Set up to efficiently process end-of-life vehicles and scrap metal by separating materials like: steel, aluminum, and other precious metals. Today, the company sticks to their commitment of environmentally friendly practices. They’ve consistently adhered to environmental regulations, ensuring that their operations do not harmfully impact the Alaskan land. Moreover, they’ve embraced innovation by adopting technologies to reduce their carbon footprint.
The Present; Anchoring Sustainable Practices: Fast forward to 2023, Alaska Car Crushing & Recycling has not only thrived but has also become an inspiration for economically sustainable
resources. One of their most significant achievements has been their contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. By recycling vehicles and metals, they’ve reduced the need for energy-intensive mining and manufacturing processes. Thus, conserving energy and reducing carbon emissions. Moreover, Alaska Car Crushing actively collaborates with local communities, engaging in cleanup initiatives to remove abandoned vehicles and scrap metals. This not only improves the state’s natural beauty but also safeguards the ecosystem from potential contamination.
Safe Environment & Roads: Beyond environmental stewardship, Alaska Car Crushing has played a pivotal role in keeping local roads safe. They’ve served Matanuska Valley and surrounding areas, providing towing services to Alaskans in emergency and nonemergency situations, 24/7. Summer or Winter, day or night, and always on call to provide fast & efficient services when needed most. Their operation also has a network of auto parts salvage, tow truck operators, and a wrecking yard. From bumper-tobumper parts for your vehicle to anything in between. Alaska Car Crushing upc ycles and has a secondary purpose for automotive parts. Cost effective and wallet friendly, one stop, U-PULL IT, and parts shop. The company’s responsible practices support the environment but most importantly sourcing materials locally whenever possible. This approach has not only fostered environmental growth but has also strengthened community bonds.
Looking Ahead; A Greener Future: As Alaska Car Crushing & Recycling
decade, its vision extends further into the future. The company is actively exploring the integration of electric vehicle recycling techniques, aligning with the global shift towards electric mobility. They’re investing in research and development to ensure they remain at the forefront of responsible recycling in the rapidly evolving automotive industry. Furthermore, their commitment to environmental education and community engagement remains unwavering. They plan to expand their outreach program, working closely with the Matsu-Borough and local organizations, to spread awareness about responsible recycling practice.
Conclusion: In an era where environmental sustainability is preeminent, Alaska Car Crushing & Recycling has shown that responsible business practices can coexist harmoniously with economic prosperity. From humble beginnings, they have grown into a beacon of eco-consciousness in the Last Frontier. By transforming discarded vehicles into valuable resources, they’ve protected the Alaskan wilderness. Also have contributed significantly to upcycling automotive parts and providing towing services 24/7. Their journey ser ves as an inspiration, demonstrating that a commitment to sustainability can lead to a greener, cleaner, and more prosperous future for Alaska and the planet. In a world where every positive environmental step counts, Alaska Car Crushing stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a company with a community combines innovation, commitment, and a deep love for its homeland.
stands on the brink of its third
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Free “Kick the Sick” Workshop: A Must-Attend for Parents!
Contributed by Dr. Josh Bee Well Chiropractic
Attention Parents! With kids back in school, are you looking for ways to give your little ones an added layer of protection? What’s commonly called “flu season” is just the season where kids are transitioning and new stressors, more activities, and a lack of sleep are impacting their immune systems, thus causing them to fall ill easier. Join us for the “Kick the Sick” workshop, an invaluable event for parents, hosted by Dr. Josh at Bee Well Chiropractic. This workshop is specifically designed to empower proactive parents like you with the knowledge and tools needed to
bolster your child’s immunity, ensuring they stay strong and healthy. During this workshop, Dr. Josh will take a deep dive into the science behind some of the challenges your children may face regarding their immunity.
Don’t miss this golden opportunity to learn, ask questions, and equip yourself with techniques to keep your kiddos healthy. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, October 18th, at 10 am in the Valley Imaging Building. It’s FREE, but spaces are limited. Secure your spot now and step into this school season informed and prepared. Spread the word, and together, let’s “Kick the Sick!”
Celebrating Remarkable Women: The Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame
Contributed by Bonnie Jack Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame The Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame is dedicated to honoring, in perpetuity, women whose contributions have influenced the direction of Alaska in any field, including, but not limited to the arts, athletics, business, community service, conservation, education, government, health, the humanities, Native affairs, philanthropy, politics, theology, and science, among others. Those to be inducted are: Adelheid “Micky” Becker, carolyn V. Brown, Vicki D’Amico, Hiroko Harada, Dorothy Isabell, Ada Johnson, Diane Kaplan, Mary Anne Navitsky, Esther Petrie, Libby Riddles, and Marty Rutherford.
The free ceremony will be shown virtually on Wednesday, October 18th at 6pm at alaskawomenshalloffame.org
Fall Updates from MatSu Food Bank
Contributed by Lauralynn Robison
Summer is officially coming to an end.
It has been quite the summer here at the MatSu Food Bank, June we celebrated our new location with a Ribbon Cutting BBQ, we provided nutritous lunches to hundreds of youngsters in the valley, as they played in the parks, and we concluded summer with our volunteers’ collecting donations at the Alaska State Fair gates. There are so many people we want to “Thank” for helping us with our mission to Fight Food Insecurity within Our Community. Thank you to Alaska State Fair, Global Credit Union, A.D. Farm, Spring Creek Farm, Matanuska Community Farmers Market, Far North Fungi, Lovely Farms AK, North Soul Salmon, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Farm, Matanuska Experiment Farm and Extension Center, Saint Juvenaly Orthodox Church, Larson Chiropractic, and Allie Hewitt-State Farm Insurance. Every one of these wonderful people and businesses contributed fresh vegetables and non-parishable goods to the MatSu Food Bank this summer, helping us get nutritional food our to our community.
A HUGE shout out to all of our Volunteers who assisted us in making
this summer a great success. We Thank you all.
As summer comes to an end, and we get ready for Fall and Winter, please keep in mind the Holiday Season is just a couple months away. We will once again be on a quest to collect donations so we can help families who are struggling with food insecurity, have food for their Holiday celebrations. Also, stop by our pantry and see the new and exciting wall of recipes and information about nutrition. Adair Harman, MEF&EC, has created a Recipe Wall and there is a wealth of information about healthy eating and healthy recipes.
We are truly grateful for all the resources available to help our wonderful community. Remember: No One should go hungry! Please take a minute to visit our web page www.matsufoodbank. org. You can also follow us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/MatSuFoodBank. Help us help our community! Please contact us at (907) 357-3769 to schedule time to volunteer, or for more information concerning donations… Or for other questions call United Way’s 211. Thank You for all your continued support, we deeply appreciate our community!
Anchorage Audubon Society
Contributed by Susan Westervelt Anchorage Audubon Society will resume our monthly in-person meetings on September 28, 2023. The meeting will be held at the BP Energy Center at 900 Benson Boulevard from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. There will be various speakers each month relating to birds, birding and conservation efforts throughout the state of Alaska. Our first meeting will be a photosharing meeting. There will be door prizes available, and cookies are always served.
The meeting in September will be a chance to show your favorite bird photos from the past year and explain something about your experiences in getting that photo. Beforehand, please submit your photos in order to expedite the presentation on meeting night. You may submit between 5-10 photos and be sure to include your name. Come and see what others have seen and experienced during this past year. Join friends and neighbors who are also interested in birds, birding, and conservation. And did I mention there will be cookies available?
Submit your photos to flybynightclub@gci.net. For more information go to our website: anchorageaudubon.org and click on the “photo-sharing meeting” button.
COMMUNITY
ALASKA OWNED & OPERATED
Sponsor a Bowler Today with Special Olympics Alaska Mat-Su Community
Contributed by Rita
Walker
Hey Mat-Su Valley. Did you know there is nothing more important than fostering the lives of others? Our Special Olympic Alaska Mat-Su Community athletes are the best! The goal for us is to provide the best possible opportunity for our athletes to train and compete. Bowling is by far our biggest group of athletes. We have over 100 of our athlete friends training for State Bowling competition each week. Unfortunately, bowling can be pricey. We are reaching out to our community to help offset some of the cost associated with this sport.
Special Olympics Alaska, Mat-Su Community
has many sports throughout the year that our athletes, unified partners, and volunteers are involved in. It is a safe environment to get physically active and make lifelong connections with their peers and the community. Our program provides our athletes and unified partners with equipment and uniforms they need to participate. We also provide transportation to and from State Games throughout the year. Equipment, uniforms, transportation, bowling, rental facilities, mailings, awards, are all expenses we must pay for. This is the reason we reach out to our community for help on occasion. We never want to let an athlete down so our Mat-Su community Management Team works extra hard to make sure we can provide the opportunities free to our athlete friends and partners.
Did you know that individuals who get involved in their community are generally happier and more connected? If you have not met our amazing athletes, you are missing out. They are all so unique and amazing individuals. We can all learn from them.
If you are interested in sponsoring a bowler, want to volunteer during local competitions, or state competitions please don’t hesitate to reach out to us by phone (907) 631-8591, Facebook “Special Olympics Alaska MatSu Community” or email us at matsu@ specialolympicsalaska.org
Join Us in Celebrating Filipino Culture!
Contributed by Lhing McNeal
Mat-Su Kabayan
On September 30, 2023, at 5 p.m. Mat-Su Kabayan Filipino American Community will be hosting a Gala & Fundraising Event at the Raven Hall located at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer, Alaska. The richness of Filipino culture is a testament to the country’s diverse history, vibrant traditions, and deep-rooted values. If you have ever been around Filipino/ Filipino American gatherings, you will notice that Filipino’s enjoy small and simple things. The Filipino People celebrate more than 42, 000 major and minor festivals annually around the Philippines. This is not only to socialize, enjoy great food, but also to honor our tradition, culture, and religious beliefs.
The Gala:
This event aims to showcase the rich and diverse tapestry of Filipino culture, offering an immersive experience for all attendees.
Cultural Performances:
This Gala’s theme is “Mindanao.” It is the second-largest island in the Philippines at 37, 660 sq. mi and is the seventh most populated island in the world. Mindanao hosts some of the most iconic cultural heritage of the Philippines
as it is home to several ethnic groups. It is a Muslim outpost in the predominantly Roman Catholic Philippines. Although Muslims are no longer a majority, Islamic culture is evident.
The culture and tradition of Mindanao is unique. The folk dances are just one among the many things that make the cultural practices in Mindanao stand out. You will be treated to some of the folk dances at this gala’s celebration that will transport you to the Philippines.
The vintas (boats) you see at this Gala are the stars of the festival. They are adorned with vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and long flowing sails. These traditional boats are not only functional for fishing and transportation but are also a symbol of the region’s cultural heritage.
Culinary Delights:
Experience and savor the flavors of homemade Filipino cuisine with a wide range of authentic dishes, from menudo and pansit (rice noodles) to lumpia (Filipino spring rolls) with delectable treats and some American cuisine catered by Peppercini’s Catering of Anchorage.
Filipino Fashion:
Admire the elegance of Filipino fashion with a showcase of traditional attire like the Barong, Tagalog and Filipiniana gowns.
Take part and assist our organization in supporting local community events by taking part in activities such as raffle drawing, door prizes and dancing. Feel free to bring your friends and family along, as this celebration is open to everyone who wishes to experience the beauty and vibrancy of Filipino culture.
We hope to see you there, as your presence would truly enhance the festivities. Let’s come together to celebrate the Philippines’ rich heritage and create lasting memories for years to come.
If you have any questions or require more information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via email at Kabayan.inc.matsu@gmail.com or call or text at 907 322 9463 or check our Matsu Kabayan page on Facebook.
Tickets are now available for purchase at Fruitland in Wasilla or give us a call on these phone numbers Rhea 720 951 1231, Shiela 907 315 4556 or buy your tickets at the event. Mabuhay! (Long Live!)
RECOVERY AWARENESS
My Recovery Story
Contributed by Sam Garcia Military and Veterans Community Liaison & Peer Support Specialist III
I am a person in long term recovery from substance use disorder. What that means is I have not used alcohol or any other mind-altering drugs since April 8th 2016. Before 2016 I lived to look at my life from the outside you could only assume I was hell bent on the destruction of my own life and in the lives of those around me. Growing up in my house alcohol and marijuana was always in the scene. At age 8 I was drinking and smoking weed whenever I could get my hands on it. By 13 I began experimenting with pain killers which began my use of opiates and the lure of the criminal lifestyle was too much for me to resist. I hit my first treatment center in Utah at 14 after a near death from my first overdose. I went through my teen years with the appearance that I had everything under control. During this time I continued to use and drink to block my feelings I considered a weakness,
I used when I was angry, sad or to celebrate. Drugs and alcohol had become my solution. Slowly I started racking up charges and hitting the revolving door in the Department of Corrections. One day I woke up in wildwood pre-trial again and I didn’t recognize the man I was. I had lost all material things I had ever gained, lost the respect of my loved ones and lost faith in myself. I knew that I had to make a change but I didn’t know how or what that would look like.
On April 15th, 2016, I went through the doors of my last treatment center which was a pig farm in the middle of nowhere. This was my last-ditch effort to try to get my life turned around. The only thing different between this time and the others is I had become willing to do whatever it takes. I had been willing to do whatever it took to keep money flowing and my habit going and now I had to put that same energy into my recovery. I had lost all hope and realized that if I continued to do things my way I was going to die or spend the rest of my life in prison. For me recovery came in the form of the 12 steps, sponsorship and coming to terms with my
understanding of a higher power. I worked each step to the best of my ability with a sponsor.
Living a program of recovery has allowed me to have a life that’s second to none. I had my son who is 5 ½ years old and has never seen me under the influence. I know if I continue to live on the principals, I have gained he doesn’t ever have to. In recovery by becoming the person I am meant to be I have also attracted those I am meant to be with. I met an amazing woman and with 5 years sober we got married and now have a beautifully blended family of 6. I have been blessed with many great job opportunities in construction yet
inevitably my path led me to the field I am in today. I have gone from prisons and homelessness to owning my own home. I went from being revived by NARCAN to now facilitating NARCAN trainings for others in hopes to save a life. I was once seemingly lost in a hole and didn’t see a way out. Now I am grateful to get to work with others daily to help them find their way out of the pit I used to find myself. Best of all is I like the person I am today and get to know what it means to enjoy the life I have without the use of substances. If you are struggling with using or the idea of not, please reach out. I didn’t have to do this alone and you don’t either.
Did You Know September is National Recovery Month?
Contributed by Michael Carsons and The Mat-Su Opioid Task Force
National Recovery Month is a national observance held every September to educate Americans that substance use treatment can enable anyone to live in recovery with a healthy and rewarding life. Recovery eliminates stigma, acknowledges the human faces of our family members, loved ones and friends that they are more than their addiction.
Recovery is possible with a new pathway toward improved health, wellbeing, positive relationships and leading a more productive and fulfilling life with the healing power of hope!
International Overdose Awareness
Day was on August 31st. It is one of our largest annual campaigns to battle against these horrible poisonings and remember those who had died without stigma and acknowledged the grief of families and friends left behind.
The campaign raised awareness of overdoses, which had been one of the worst public health crises and stimulated action and discussion about evidencedbased overdose prevention and drug policy.
The overdose crisis has been international, yet the impact has been very personal. Drug overdoses had affected everyone, especially families, loved ones, and friends, as well as spontaneous first responders and good Samaritans who
had attempted to relieve an unknown individual that had suffered an overdose.
International Overdose Awareness Day has provided each of us an opportunity to remember, but more importantly, to act.
We had come together as families, friends, and/or a community to join an event. And, it might have been as simple and thoughtful as in a backyard with refreshments and conversation, in a park, or a large community event with the reading of names and/or posting tributes.
I strongly believed that the most important action had been to carry and get trained with the opioid antidote, Naloxone.
Contact or call: Project Hope @ dhss. alaska.gov (907-334-2675) to find training
Treatment Works: Meeting of the Minds
Contributed by Mack Farrenkopf MAKE A SCENE Media
Growing up in such a small town, it was fairly easy to keep tabs on people and loved ones you’ve grown up with to check in to see how they are doing. As time has gone on the Mat-Su has grown, it has become harder to do so. With that being said, I know we’re not the only ones experiencing this.
One of the common and troubling issues I’ve witnessed amongst the people of this great community and my own family is a never-ending battle between addiction and opioid poisonings. But some of you while reading this may be asking: “What is Opioid Poisoning?”. Well, I’m glad you asked!
We define Opioid Poisoning as follows: Also known as opioid overdose or opioid toxicity, refers to a medical emergency that occurs when an individual’s body is exposed to an excessive amount of opioids, which can lead to life-threatening symptoms and, in severe cases, death. Opioids are a class of drugs that include both prescription painkillers (such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine) and illegal drugs like heroin.
The condition of opioid poisoning arises when the opioids overwhelm the body’s normal functioning, particularly the respiratory system. Opioids depress the central nervous system, slowing down breathing and heart rate. When taken in excessive amounts or in a manner not prescribed by a healthcare provider, these substances can cause the following symptoms: Shallow or slow breathing
Extreme drowsiness or loss of consciousness
Pinpoint pupils (the black centers of the eyes)
• Pale, clammy skin
• Blue or purple lips and nails (due to inadequate oxygen)
• Slurred speech
Inability to wake the affected person
These are just some of the medical side effects caused by Opioid Poisoning. Timely intervention with the administration of the opioid antagonist naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the effects of opioids and save a person’s life. Anyone who experiences or witnesses these with someone shouldn’t panic and should call 911 for immediate assistance.
When individuals become trapped in this horrible poisoning, it often leads to a wide range of negative consequences that can significantly impact their lives across various aspects:
Physical Health Decline: Substance addiction can lead to serious physical health problems. Many substances, like opioids, alcohol, and stimulants, can damage the body over time, resulting in conditions such as liver disease, respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and an increased risk of infectious diseases.
Mental Health Challenges: Addiction is closely linked to mental health issues. It can exacerbate existing mental disorders or lead to new ones, including depression, anxiety, and various mood disorders. The cycle of addiction often involves emotional and psychological distress.
Social Isolation: Addiction can strain relationships with friends and family.
Individuals may withdraw from social circles, isolate themselves, or become involved with a new group of peers who share their addiction. This isolation can lead to loneliness and further exacerbate mental health problems.
Financial Problems: Sustaining an addiction can be financially devastating. Individuals may spend substantial amounts of money on obtaining drugs or alcohol, leading to debt, job loss, homelessness, or legal troubles. Financial instability can perpetuate the addiction cycle.
Occupational and Educational Consequences: Addiction often interferes with an individual’s ability to maintain employment or pursue education. Frequent absences, decreased productivity, and erratic behavior can lead to job loss or academic underachievement.
Legal Issues: Substance abuse can result in legal problems such as DUI (Driving Under the Influence), possession of illegal substances, or involvement in criminal activities to support the addiction. Legal consequences can lead to incarceration and a criminal record.
Physical Harm: In some cases, addiction can lead to accidents or injuries, as impaired judgment and coordination can increase the risk of accidents, falls, or risky behaviors.
Neglect of Responsibilities: As addiction takes over an individual’s life, they may neglect important responsibilities such as childcare, caregiving for elderly family members, or household duties, leading to harm to dependents and strained relationships.
in your community.
There was an opportunity to build Naloxone Kits in Anchorage, Friday, September 1st, and we plan to be hosting many more in the future. These are some of the many actions we’re taking to help move towards a healthier Mat-Su and State of Alaska. If you or someone you know is interested in working with us to host one of these at your business or school, please contact us through our website matsuopioidtaskforce.com
Let’s remember those lost too soon, who were beautiful people and never to be forgotten. Our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers were coming your way.
Risk of Overdose and Death: For some substances, particularly opioids and certain stimulants, addiction carries a significant risk of overdose and death. Over time, individuals may build tolerance, requiring larger doses to achieve the desired effect, which increases the risk of overdose.
Loss of Self-Esteem and Identity: Addiction can erode an individual’s sense of self-worth and identity. They may feel guilt, shame, and hopelessness, further reinforcing the cycle of addiction.
Breaking free from this can be extremely challenging and often requires professional help, support from loved ones, and a strong commitment to recovery. Which leads us to what has been going on recently to connect and shape a healthier recovery community! Over the course of September, the Mat-Su Opioid Task Force and I have been facilitating a series of roundtable discussions to find ways we as recovery centers, state and city entities can work together.
We’ve discussed things such as the process to recovery, hosting community events to remove the stigma behind this issue, direct partnerships, and so much more. We recognize that the only way we can truly make an impact and move towards a healther Mat-Su is to find more ways we can team up and get the word out! Watch out for updates and news regarding all these issues in The People’s Paper and on our radio station 95.5 The Pass KNLT FM. We look forward to continuing our service to the community and helping create a healthier Mat-Su. If you or your business would like to be a part of these discussions, please reach out to mack@makeascene.media or call 907-671-3858.