February 11th, 2025

GRAPHIC BY EDLEEN GUIAO.

A special thank you to UAA’s Health Promotion Team and the ANTHC iKnowMine.org program for providing condoms for our special sex edition.

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THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2025

02

Detecting the love worth staying for Disclaimer: Topics on intimate partner violence will be addressed

By Hannah Dillon managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org

When in a relationship of any kind, arguing is inevitable. But frustrating nights should eventually end in comfort, communication and safety.

Detecting unhealthy and abusive habits while in a relationship can be difficult. The situation can be even more difficult to leave once these behaviors are recognized.

The Northern Light spoke with UAA psychology professor Dr. Jennifer Poon and doctoral student Lauren Kiker about unhealthy or abusive behaviors in a relationship.

Kiker is in the third year of her thesis, which is focused on understanding college students’ attitudes toward domestic violence. Kiker is also experienced in providing couples therapy.

Kiker said domestic violence is not always black and white.

We often try to attribute blame to either a perpetrator or a victim, but these extremes are not always accurate in describing abuse within a relationship.

Kiker said in many escalating situations between partners in an unstable relationship, some form of violence is experienced on all sides.

These notions of a black or white extreme in abuse can be harmful to those who may question their relationship, she said.

“So, (we’re) trying to think about how we can kind of create domestic violence interventions, prevention efforts, that

get at what people actually experience, and therefore are better able to prevent domestic violence,” said Kiker.

Kiker said some signs to look for in a relationship are the meeting of needs by your partner(s).

When people try to communicate a physical or emotional need and that need is not being heard, it can be a large red flag.

Kiker added that unhealthy communication patterns, such as getting shut down or a conversation that escalates into a fight, could become worrisome.

“Just anyone that doesn’t feel safe or heard in a relationship,” said Kiker.

Kiker said partners can have difficulty in feeling the freedom to leave an unstable relationship. Even though someone may know they are experiencing abusive interactions, they may feel stuck, trapped or unaware that relationships can be healthier because of previous experiences or earlier representations of unstable relationships among family or friends.

Poon said that many relationship problems are perpetual and can be nearly impossible to resolve. An example is when one partner is extroverted while others are introverted, which can lead to disagreements in how to spend their time.

Another issue Poon mentioned is financial differences, such as one’s willingness to spend money while another partner may be more conservative with their spending.

Kiker added that largely different life-plans with no com-

promise can have a foreshadowing effect of an end to a longterm relationship.

Poon explained the “four horseman” of the love apocalypse. The subject was coined by a couple named the Gottmans.

The four horsemen are criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling.

Poon said stonewalling is a complete shutdown and withdrawal from a conversation as opposed to a healthy break to collect thoughts and emotions.

Poon added that exploring different relationship structures is valuable in understanding what you want out of life in romantic and sexual endeavours.

Consensual non-monogamous relationships and relationships falling along the LGBTQ spectrum can feel stigmatized when asking for help.

Poon said most research on relationships consists of twoparty heteronormative samples, and does not address many people who may be impacted by unhealthy relationship dynamics.

Although the research is lacking in variable literature, having compassion for yourself is crucial when taking the steps to ask for help.

“And I think there’s a lot that heteronormative monogamous couples can learn from people in alternative relationship structures, your same sex relationships, your poly relationships,” said Poon.

Healthy relationship habits include interacting with your partner’s bids for attention, generous loving attention and feel-

PHOTO COURTESY OF DIEGO SAN FROM UNSPLASH.

Lone woman looking out of a window.

ing like there are more good or neutral times than bad.

Even if partners in a relationship have a lot of conflict, the repair process — how you are treated and how you treat others in that conflict and repair — is crucial to a healthy relationship.

Poon recommended a book titled “The High Conflict Couple.” She said the book is a great piece of literature to help people work on and validate themselves as well as their partner or partners.

Kiker added that a book titled “Polywise” could also be a beneficial read for people in nonmonogamous and LGBTQ relationships.

There are many local resources in the Anchorage area, as well as at UAA, to discuss relationships or leaving unhealthy situations, but this can be an unnerving, uncomfortable and scary experience for anyone experiencing abuse.

“So, people can go to shelters, shelters that accept children and pets. People can apply for fi-

nancial aid resources. But these are huge, scary steps to make, and it’s okay if you’re not ready to make them, or if you’re too scared to make them right now,” said Kiker.

Kiker added, “Working up to them, maybe by talking to friends or a counselor can be really helpful, but also that can be really serious to have that conversation for the first time. It means that we have to face saying it out loud, possibly for the first time, and it’s a really scary thing to do. So it’s okay to be wherever you are, and it’s okay to be scared.”

UAA can assist with individual therapy, couples therapy and other forms of help through the Psychological Services Center and the Student Health and Counseling Center located on campus.

In emergency situations, please call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can also provide support: (800)-7997233.

Hot takes: Does UAA believe in evolution?

Many people in the U.S. reject human evolution — The Northern Light education of it,” said Dubey.

Graduate psychology student Caleb Gorda, said, “Do I believe asked students their opinions on the empirically supported theory in evolution? Yes.”

By Murat Demir copy.editor@thenorthernlight.org

Since this month’s edition of The Northern Light is the “Sex Edition,” it would be incomplete to discuss sex without mentioning evolution.

Sex and evolution are inextricably linked. Sexual reproduction facilitates genetic variation by combining genes from two organisms.

However, acceptance of evolution in the United States has been a contentious topic.

A poll conducted by Pew Research Center on public perception of evolution in the United States found that six-in-ten Americans report that “humans and other living things have evolved over time,” while a third report that “humans and other

IMAGE COURTESY OF THE PUBLIC DOMAIN.

An illustration of human evolution.

living things have existed in their present form since the beginning of time.”

Given the significance of evolution to the natural sciences, The Northern Light interviewed the UAA community about their opinion on the matter.

The Northern Light approached computer science ma-

jor Isaac Vinson at Rasmuson Hall for an interview.

Vinson said, “I do believe that a lot of species probably died off, that people might not want to believe in, like giant people or dragons or whatever like, that would be hard to recover from a fossil perspective, but yeah, I do believe that there is an evolution

to our species.”

“Now, whether God made the big bang or whatever, I think that is true,” said Vinson.

Shayde Dubey, another computer science major, also shared his opinion with The Northern Light.

Dubey said, “My personal philosophy is like, we can’t all be an expert on everything, so I think — as much as a lot of people don’t like it — we have to have some faith in other people, and I think, who is it uh, Isaac Newton, who said, ‘I’m only great because I stand on the shoulders of giants,’” “I’m learning computer science, but I don’t know a lot about evolution, but I just trust the experts that evolution is a thing because I don’t have all the time in the world to do all the research, so I kind of just have to give almost, like, faith in higher

When asked why he believes in the evolution of species, Gorda said, “There’s a lot of evidence for it.”

“You can see like the remnants of virus DNA that has been left in our genes for millennia,” he said. “We’ve literally watched evolution happen to other species — we can cause bacteria to evolve.”

Other students also shared their views but decided not to share their names, as they felt they would be targeted for their opinions.

Public acceptance of evolution has increased in recent years from 40% to 54%, according to a study conducted at the University of Michigan.

Perceptions of this topic at UAA will likely continue to evolve, much like the evolution of species.

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03

Where romance meets legal issues Please be advised this article discusses consent, sexual assault and other topics that may be triggering for some readers

By UPD Chief Jeff Earle Contributor

As you prepare for Valentine’s Day with someone you’re romantically interested in, we encourage you to learn and work with campus organizations to understand what healthy relationships look like. Besides learning about where the law and romance “hook up,” we wanted to share additional information that can assist you while you are at UAA. Here at the University Police Department, or UPD, we work closely with the UAA Health Promotions and Wellness team, the Office of Equity and Compliance, Residence Life, the Dean of Students Office, the CARE Team, and the Dating Violence Sexual Assault (DVSA) Coalition for Change to promote a culture of respect and support for our entire university community.

When discussing education and prevention, UPD offers a variety of presentations and everyday conversations with people to promote prevention programs that address interpersonal violence issues which impact the university community and Alaska at large.

If you have never heard the term “interpersonal violence” before, it commonly refers to physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse. From

PHOTO BY WILLIAMCHO. COURTESY OF PIXABAY.

a criminal standpoint, it loosely encompasses the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. These crimes have no place in our society, and we encourage you to report them to UPD or a campus resource if you suspect or are a victim/survivor.

Most of the UAA community is familiar with the Timely Warning Notifications sent by UPD, informing the community of a reported sexual assault or stalking. However, you might not know how this came about.

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, commonly known as the Clery Act, is a federal consumer protection law that requires institutions of higher education in the U.S. to disclose safety information and statistics for campuses.

It is named after Jeanne Clery,

who was a student at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. She was raped and murdered in her residence hall room in 1986, and her family lobbied for Congress to require institutions to publish safety information to help students, employees, and families make informed decisions regarding their safety.

UPD trains its officers on many subjects and recently hosted training by the national organization Stalking Prevention, Awareness & Resource Center, or SPARC, on stalking, Jan. 30 and 31.

Alaska law enforcement officers from around the state participated in learning current best practices in conducting investigations on stalking and related crimes. They also learned ways to better support the victims of such criminal behaviors throughout the criminal investi-

gative process.

Other university offices, such as the Dean of Students and the Office of Equity and Compliance (Title IX), perform administrative conduct investigations related to whether university policy was violated, which are different from the criminal investigations conducted by UPD. However, UPD does assist those offices with safety planning for individuals involved in those investigations, if requested.

Bringing the subject full circle to the overall theme of this Northern Light Sex Edition, let’s talk about consent.

On Jan. 1, 2023, the State of Alaska changed the law as it relates to consent towards sexual activity. Specifically, the new definition is best explained by Standing Together Against Rape (STAR): “…promotes the concept of affirmative consent, or ‘yes means yes’. Essentially, it means that both parties involved in a sexual encounter must clearly and verbally communicate their enthusiastic consent at every step of the sexual act or activity” (https://www.staralaska. com/hb325).

So, for this Valentine’s Day, make sure you and your partner work towards a healthy relationship by being honest and respectful with each other, setting boundaries, and obtaining and giving consent before and during any sexual activity.

UAA Web Links: CARE Team https://www. uaa.alaska.edu/students/careteam/index.cshtml UAA Clery Resources and Information https://www.uaa. alaska.edu/students/dean-of-students/clery-act/index.cshtml Dean of Students https:// www.uaa.alaska.edu/students/ dean-of-students/index.cshtml DVSA (https://www.uaa. alaska.edu/students/health-safety/health-counseling-center/ dvsa.cshtml) Health Promotion and Wellness https://www.uaa.alaska. edu/students/health-safety/ health-counseling-center/promotion-wellness.cshtml Office of Equity and Compliance https://www.uaa.alaska. edu/about/equity-and-compliance/index.cshtml Residence Life https://www. uaa.alaska.edu/residence-life/ index.cshtml) University of Alaska Employee Assistance Program https://www.alaska.edu/hr/benefits/support/employee-assistance.php) University Police https:// www.uaa.alaska.edu/about/ administrative-services/departments/university-police-department/index.cshtml External Links: STAR https://www.staralaska.com/ SPARC https://www.stalkingawareness.org/

Book review: ‘Sex Work Policy: Participatory Action Research by and for Sex Workers and Sex Trafficking Survivors’

By Amber Batts Contributor

The recently published book “Sex Work Policy: Participatory Action Research by and for Sex Workers and Sex Trafficking Survivors” is an accessible and powerful read, making complex policies digestible for those without a policy background.

Balanced with depth and clarity, “Sex Work Policy” allows readers to understand better what sex workers are going through and what can be done to improve our lives.

With the combination of research, personal stories, and clear actionable policy recommendations, it stands as one of the most valuable resources for anyone looking to understand the realities of sex work in the U.S. It was written by sex workers and sex trafficking survivors with a participatory action research methodology, which involves the active participation of those affected by the research. The lived experiences of those in the sex industry make it a must read for anyone wanting

to understand the impact of policies on health, safety, and working conditions.

Each of the 13 chapters tackles a different aspect of the sex industry, from policing to public services, and the realities of the federal law enacted in 2018, Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act — spoiler: It’s bad.

One standout chapter is “People in Alaska’s Sex Trade – Their Lived Experiences and Policy Recommendations,” by Tara Burns.

Burns is a founding member of Community United for Safety and Protection, a sex trafficking survivor, and a researcher.

With an M.A. in her back pocket, she was the first registered lobbyist in Alaska to advocate for sex worker rights. She currently serves as the research and policy director for COYOTE RI, an organization that advocates for policies that promote the health and safety of people involved in the sex industry in Rhode Island.

Burns brings valuable insights into Alaska’s sex trade, explaining methods, the demographics of participants, and the survey results with clarity.

“Sex Work Policy” manages to take topics that can be dry with academic jargon, translating the subject matter into something insightful and actionable.

The real power lies in the firsthand accounts of sex workers and sex trafficking survivors in Alaska. This is a clear look at how current state and federal sex trafficking laws warp the lives of people in the sex trade.

Chapter seven compares surveys conducted in the U.S., Rhode Island, and Alaska.

Examining trafficking, exploitation, violence, and arrest rates, the data exposes the reality that many in the sex industry face daily.

For instance, 74% of Alaskan respondents reported being the victim or witness of a crime they didn’t report. These are crimes that could have been prevented or addressed but weren’t because of a system that treats sex workers as criminals, even when trying to seek help.

This chapter offers pragmatic recommendations for law enforcement, highlighting the need for policies requiring police to take reports from sex workers without the threat of arrest.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMBER BATTS.

On the left, ‘Sex Work Policy.’ On the right, Amber Batts.

Whether you’re interested in the legal ramifications of current policies or the health consequences they impose, “Sex Work Policy” doesn’t just outline the problems; there are concrete recommendations to improve conditions for sex workers and sex trafficking survivors.

“Sex Work Policy” offers practical solutions rooted in the experiences of those who’ve

lived it. Whether you’re interested in an overview of national policies or how policies in Alaska have affected those in the sex industry, this book is both a learning tool and a call to action.

“Sex Work Policy” is a guide to the changes needed to protect the health and safety of sex workers and sex trafficking survivors in Alaska and across the U.S.

04

FEATURES

How to stay in love once you fall Young adults can think of love as an action word. Love involves actions and decisions in addition to feelings. Healthy love can always be present if you work for it.

By Hannah Dillon managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org

We all change over time. The person you were six years ago has now become a character in your memory, while the thoughts and emotions you had at the time have transitioned into a moment in time that no longer exists.

Whether that is good news or an unfortunate reality, we will change throughout our lives.

So how do we make these life-altering milestones life-long with your partner or partners when we are constantly changing as individuals?

The Northern Light spoke with UAA psychology professor Dr. Jennifer Poon and doctoral student Lauren Kiker about relationships that develop at a young age.

The premise of “young love” often is treated with skepticism in Western society.

Poon said that young adults who fall in love at a young age often experience a lack of respect toward their relationship from external perspectives.

“In general, young love is kind of derided by society and adults like, ‘oh, puppy love,’ ‘you have no idea what love is,’ ‘you’re just crazy with your hormones,” said Poon.

Poon recognized that the average age of American citizens to get married for the first time is around the age of 28 to 30 for both men and women.

But the relationships you have at a young age are still deserving of respect

from older peers. The formative, vulnerable transitory years of adolescence and young adulthood are important in discovery, even if those relationships do not last.

Poon said many partners decide to get married for financial incentives, affordable housing, parental pressures or a wide variety of incentivized reasons other than the distinction of love.

“Marriage is also a driver of the increased inequity between the rich and the poor and the have and have-nots,” said Poon.

But love is a force beyond government approval or law. Marriage is a symbol, but your relationship with the one(s) you love is what signifies true meaning.

Poon said that in Western society, we often envision an image of the perfect marriage as a heteronormative couple, two kids and a white picket fence.

But the “perfect” relationship is the one with “generous loving attention,” a feeling of comfort and safety.

Healthy relationship habits include interacting with your partner’s bids for attention, generous loving attention and feeling like there are more good or neutral times than bad.

Even if partners in a relationship have a lot of conflict, the repair process, how you are treated and how you treat others in that conflict and repair is crucial to a healthy relationship.

Poon explained that in a healthy relationship, partners should be attentive and responsive to each other’s bids for attention, even if they are unable to engage every time.

This could involve one partner pointing out a bird flying by, and the other partner(s) acknowledging the bird and engaging in short conversation. Healthy responses to bids for attention demonstrate emotional attunement, instead of ignoring or dismissing your partner’s attempts to connect.

According to research by the National Library of Medicine, “Couples who slept, ate, and exercised together more frequently had better health and stronger health concordance than couples who engaged in fewer joint health routines.”

Poon said maintaining independence in a relationship can be difficult, but is needed for many people’s emotional regulation. A secure relationship will have the freedom to feel independent together.

All of these feelings, bids for attention, healthy habits and eating delicious meals together are something every young adult has to learn and experience.

Kiker said many young adults are on a growth journey and some relationships can begin to feel stagnant if you feel your partner or partners are not growing with you in their own way.

“If you feel like someone is not growing with you, not changing with you, not accepting who you are growing into, that can be a really big red flag,” said Kiker.

Poon added that every relationship is different by region, culture, religion, personal experience and everything in between.

“I don’t think growth is incompatible with a relationship but it is easier to kind of get complacent and stagnant. There’s

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEXANDER GREY FROM UNSPLASH.

“Soulmates know no gender. Two people in love.”

lots of research on doing novel things with your partner like ‘spice it up and it gets that adrenaline going,’” said Poon.

There is an understanding in love, in whatever form it may take shape. Friendship should feel fulfilling and romance should heal what it can.

Poon mentioned that love will communicate and influence personal growth, not hinder it. It will help you recognize your own potential. You will not always agree, but love will always speak to you with respect.

It is okay to fall out of love with someone as we develop in some of our most formative years.

But it is also okay to love someone with every fiber of your being at a young age. Young and healthy relationships will last if you commit to your feelings with daily decisions to do right by your partner or partners.

What is love?

Why do we feel love so strongly?

By Scott Hobbs associate.editor@thenorthernlight.org

There’s a joke that if you’re a hopeless romantic, you can eat chocolate and it will essentially produce the same reaction in your brain as love. On the surface, that assessment isn’t too far off: Our brains release endorphins and dopamine when we eat chocolate and when we’re in love. So why is it that you only feel deeply connected to your partner and not the Twix bar in your hand?

Love is an incredibly deep and complex emotion, and to get to the bottom of what it entails, The Northern Light spoke with Dr. Hannah Ekstrom, the director of UAA’s Master of Science in Clinical Psychology program and the Psychological Services Center.

Love is rooted in the attachment system of the brain. “Our attachment system is the neurobiological system that includes beliefs and thoughts, emotions, and brain states of connection,” said Ekstrom.

Formed in early childhood, these systems are considered a biological imperative, meaning they are essential for humans to survive and thrive, according to Ekstrom. It is because of this attachment system that humans often seek out love, looking for attachment to a possible soulmate.

But what is going on in our brain when we experience love?

A study conducted by the Harvard

Medical School presented college students photos of someone special to them and took MRI images of their brains, comparing those images to when those same students were shown photos of their friends.

When shown people they loved romantically, the students’ brains became active in regions rich with dopamine, the two major areas being the caudate nucleus and the ventral tegmental area.

In particular, the ventral tegmental area is a part of the brain’s reward circuit, a primitive neural network that is sensitive to behavior that induces pleasure, including food consumption, drug use and sex.

The reward circuit is activated by dopamine being released into the brain as a result of being “love-struck.” The release of dopamine causes a euphoric feeling, similar to the use of cocaine or alcohol.

The reward circuit’s activation causes responses such as blushing, racing hearts and overall anxiety in relation to your significant other. The brain also sees a rise in cortisol, leading to higher stress.

This cocktail of reactions is why falling in love can feel so stressful yet so euphoric at the same time.

Other chemicals released as a result of romantic love include oxytocin and vasopressin. Oxytocin specifically deepens feelings of attachment, provokes feelings of contentment, calmness and security.

This, in combination with love deactivating charges of negative emotions such as fear and social judgement, is what makes

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHAIRA DELA PEÑA FROM UNSPLASH.

Neon love sign.

romantic moments feel so intimate and close.

Over time, typically within one to two years, cortisol levels of someone in a relationship will return to normal and love will turn from a stressor to a buffer against stress.

The study also states that as you get more attached to your partner, the stress begins to fade and the feelings you experience are largely positive and euphoric.

According to Ekstrom, “Love and connection in the long-term can help with management of stress.”

She said that this attachment separates love from other interactions that cause your brain’s reward circuit to fire off. Eating chocolate may cause your brain to release some feel-good chemicals in a short burst, but long-term attachment and love provokes a continuous release of those happy chemicals in your brain.

A TED Talk by Dr. Guy Winch explained the attachment that love creates

is also what makes a broken heart feel so Earth-shattering.

According to Winch, losing a close connection with a significant other activates mechanisms in the brain similar to when substance using individuals withdraw from substances. He said this is why no breakup explanation ever feels satisfying, and why no matter how many reasons you may try to track down to explain why you were broken up with, you won’t be able to find one that justifies it to you.

Ultimately, love is an incredibly powerful emotion. The human brain longs to be close to others, and the feeling we get when we finally find that significant other is unrivaled. No matter how devastating each breakup may feel, it is the yearning for attachment that keeps humans going back out into the dating pool for another attempt at finding the one you will spend the rest of your life with.

FEATURES

05

Supportive relationships: Consent and communication “Communication is key” is a common phrase used to describe supportive relationships — but what does it really mean?

By Amelia McCormack Contributor

Supportive relationships depend on each person feeling respected and heard.

It’s important to communicate with your partner, friend or family member, to ensure they know how you feel. Through communication, we learn what the other person needs from the relationship, what is or isn’t ok with them and how that aligns with your needs.

Communication establishes clear boundaries in relationships and is essential for consent.

Consent within an intimate relationship is an informed and freely given agreement to participate in a specific activity. For consent to be informed, both people need to be honest and clear about what activities you would like to engage in — from kissing to back massages to sexual activities, everyone has some activities they’re comfortable with, and some they aren’t.

Respecting a partner’s boundaries within consent is key to a supportive relationship, but how do you know if your partner is consenting or not?

It’s easy to find out: Just ask!

It may feel awkward to ask a partner “Is it ok if I kiss you? Is it ok if I touch you here?” However, it also fosters trust and can be less uncomfortable than moving ahead without consent or breaking a partner’s boundaries.

Remember to ask for consent with each new activity, even if you have done that activity before, as people’s comfort or readiness may be different, or even change.

Communication and consent are important steps in ensuring everyone in the relationship feels safe, respected, and cared for.

Feeling safe in a relationship includes physical safety, free from abuse like assault, as well as safety to share thoughts and boundaries without negative retaliation from the other person.

In a healthy relationship, you shouldn’t feel afraid to tell a partner or friend no, set boundaries, or disagree.

Healthy relationships include being able to have disagreements without fear of physical or emotional abuse. You

PHOTO BY STOKPIC COURTESY OF PIXABAY.

Relationships come in many forms, including friendships, and can be supportive or unhealthy.

It’s important to learn about healthy relationships to stay safe and respectful.

should feel that your partner, friend, or family member respects you and what you have to say.

At UAA, Peer Health Educators help teach students about topics that matter to them, including healthy relationships and the bystander effect.

A Peer Health Educator at UAA said: “The way to get better and learn about the other person is by open communication.

It is hard being vulnerable, but it is the only way to grow. It is amazing to be able to grow with someone. To satisfy someone’s desire’s fully and they satisfy yours is a beautiful thing. Explore the depths of each other’s minds. Falling in love with someone’s brain as well as their body is important.”

These are college-aged students who understand the complex circumstances that surround relationships and wish to help improve their fellow students’ lives.

When asked what a supportive relationship looks like, one Peer Health Educator said: “A supportive relationship looks like an equal partnership with two humans who deeply care about each other. Being aware and considerate of the other person’s needs and desires is really important … It is healthy to step outside of one’s comfort zone and explore with the person you are in a relationship with …

Being in a relationship, each person will

It’s sexy spring!

As we defrost and heat up, remember what’s hot and what’s not!

By Summer Sweet Health Promotion Team

February brings candy hearts, roses and sometimes steamy encounters. When reflecting on sexuality and the potential of sex with others, it is important to remember some essential aspects to ensure a sexy spring season!

Sex is a conversation: Let’s talk about it.

Safe sex is the best sex; knowing your status regarding sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, is the first step to having a pleasurable sexual experience.

It is recommended that sexually active people be tested for STIs, including HIV, at least once a year and more frequently — every 3 to 6 months — if engaging in sexual activities with multiple or anonymous partners. Testing after every new partner is also a best practice.

Next, have a conversation with your partner(s) about protection and contraceptive options. Barrier methods are the best way to prevent the spread of STIs. Did you know there are many types of barriers? These include male and female condoms and oral dams, just to name a few. Discussing what is comfortable and desired to use is a healthy first step to a sexual encounter.

Family planning and birth control options are also important considerations for all partners to be aware of and on the same page about.

Lastly, but definitely not least: CONSENT! If you have seen the UAA Health Promotion Team around campus, you have probably heard that consent is FRIES! Consent is freely given — without use of coercion, manipulation or force.

It is reversible. If someone is not com-

still need their own time. That is healthy and good. Each person still has their own friends and family to reach out to as well. Each person has their own separate hobbies and interests. Don’t lose that just because you’re in a relationship with someone who may be different than you. I think it is healthy to make space for each other’s differences and encourage each other in their pursuits. It helps when a partner is happy with the other person’s excitement. There is such beauty and ability to learn in having differences with someone. A supportive relationship looks like an increase in empathy, a widening of perspectives, dopamine from the physical aspect of interacting together, sharing of goals and direction and helping each other grow both together and separately.”

Hannah Guzzi works with the Alaska Department of Health’s Women’s, Children’s, and Family Health Division, as the Adolescent Health Program Specialist.

When asked what a supportive relationship looks like, and what to do when a relationship is unsupportive, she said: “Relationships can have a range of supportive, unsupportive, or abusive qualities. Supportive qualities are based on respect, healthy boundaries, and the ability for people to make decisions for themselves. Unsupportive and abusive

fortable continuing with something or has decided they don’t want to participate anymore, consent can be taken back.

Consent is informed and specific. Everyone is aware of what is happening and has discussed comfort levels.

And consent is enthusiastic. Participants are excited about what is happening and glad to be there.

It may seem awkward or weird to think about starting a conversation in the heat of the moment, but consent is sexy!

Having a discussion about sex, what you like, expect and want helps everyone have a better time.

Holding safe space for open communication and boundaries creates mutual respect and healthy relationships.

Need condoms, STI testing or have questions about sexual and reproductive health? The UAA Student Health and Counseling Center is here for you!

Call 907-786-4040 or visit us in Rasmuson Hall Room 120. Join the Health Promotion Team for a Healthy Sexuality and Wellness Fair on Thursday Feb. 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Rasmuson Hall lobby for free swag, information and resources!

The SHCC will also be offering vouch-

qualities happen when a person tries to assert power and control over another. This could be, limiting what friends someone hangs out with, monitoring someone’s social media, or forcing someone to do something they don’t want to do. Disagreements can be a natural part of all relationships. However, if people can communicate how they feel, what their boundaries are, and listen to others, they can work through those challenges. If someone notices unsupportive or abusive qualities in their relationship, or doesn’t feel safe, they have the right to leave the relationship and seek help through friends, family, and statewide services. Everyone deserves to feel safe, heard, and respected in their relationships.”

There are many local resources available to learn more about supportive relationships and what to do when a relationship is unsupportive or abusive.

The Healthy Relationship card is a great resource you can order for free through the iknowmine.org website. This card includes ideas of what a healthy versus unhealthy relationship is, consent, how to help a friend, and how to get help for yourself.

A resource listed includes loveisrespect.org, a website that has resources for helping yourself or others with relationships. There are also options to call, text, or chat online with a representative to talk through your situation and be further connected with resources.

Another resource is the Alaska-based website iknowmine.org. This website has a tab labeled “My Relationships” where people can find more information on navigating all kinds of relationships, including family and friendships.

While many relationship resources are focused on teens and young adults, people of all ages can experience unhealthy relationships and deserve to be in respectful, supportive relationships.

These resources can be utilized by people of all ages and are a good first step for people unsure of whether their relationship is supportive or not.

Other resources for those experiencing abuse, including sexual abuse, can be found at https://andvsa.org/. You can also speak with UAA’s Student Health and Counseling Center to begin the process of finding help.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SUMMER SWEET OF THE HEALTH PROMOTION TEAM.

Consent is sexy.

ers for FREE STI testing for eligible students!

Summer Sweet is a health promotion specialist with the Student Health and Counseling Center’s health promotion team.

CONTACT

06

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07

FEATURES

Alaska’s romance novel community keeps love in the air all year long Romance is the most popular, and often most maligned, genre in publishing. Its popularity is still growing, especially in Alaska

By Taylor Heckart Contributor

On a Saturday afternoon, it was standing room only at Anchorage’s only romance bookstore, Beauty and the Book. Five authors were gathered for a panel on romance books, sharing everything from book inspiration to sex scene logistics. The large and excited audience of romance readers at this event is no accident — romance is a wildly popular genre nationwide, and Alaskan audiences are just as hungry for love.

Romance is currently the titan of the publishing industry, but the genre has been widely popular from the late 1800s onward. In 2021-2022, the romance genre saw an over 50% increase in print sales while many other genres stagnated or declined.

What makes a romance novel? That definition can be quite broad: According to the Romance Writers of America website, a romance novel must have a central love story and an emotionally satisfying ending.

Romance can then be divided up into all kinds of sub genres: western, sci-fi, historical, paranormal… the list goes on and on.

Baylee Loyd is the co-owner of Beauty and the Book. She owns the shop with her sister, Ally Kindred. Loyd started reading romance novels around two years ago, when she was six months postpartum and Kindred was three months postpartum.

For Loyd and Kindred, romance novels were a way to reconnect with themselves after becoming mothers.

Loyd said that she saw that other romance novel bookstores were popping up in the lower 48 and in Fairbanks. Loyd and Kindred decided that Anchorage needed one too.

PHOTO BY TAYLOR HECKART.

The front room of Beauty and the Book was packed for the Alaska Writer’s Guild’s Alaska Romance Panel on February 8, 2025.

PHOTO BY TAYLOR HECKART.

Shelves of books in the pink room at Beauty and the Book.

The response to Beauty and the Book’s opening in June of last year was, “really really great.”

“If you look at pictures from our opening day, we had lines down the street. And we did not expect the feedback — this was supposed to be a side project for us,” said Loyd, “My sister is a real estate agent and I am a stay at home mom, and we just expected this to be a hobby-sidething.”

Now, the shop has turned into a full-time job with two other employees on their payroll.

Loyd felt that part of the appeal of romance novels to readers is the safety these books offer. “I think it’s appealing to women and queer people especially, because it’s a safe place for discovery and a safe place for desires. [It’s] a safe place like to see strong female characters, strong queer characters, in an environment where it’s not always safe to express that.”

Another appealing part of romance novels? The male love interests in these novels are often doting lovers and emotionally mature, traits that aren’t always encouraged in men in real life.

As born and raised Alaskans, it was important to Loyd and Kindred to carry local authors

on their shelves. What they didn’t expect was how many they’d be carrying.

“We did not realize we had as many [authors] as we have,” said Loyd, “There’s a really big community of authors as well.”

One of the Alaskan authors on the shelves at Beauty and the Book is author K.T. Munson.

After the bookstore opened, she left one of her books for the owners, and was excited when they decided to carry some of her works.

Munson had been writing since she was six, and has been publishing her works for the last decade. Her works vary, and not all are strictly romance. She’s written romance, epic fantasy, science fiction, dystopias, and more.

“I think romance is like, about connection,” said Munson,“I would say all of my stories have an element of romance. It’s just because we as people, we seek out the connection in others.”

Munson said that having her works at Beauty and the Book has helped her find an even broader audience of readers. They hosted a book signing for her last year, and it gave her an opportunity to connect with readers face to face.

She said she loves that Alas-

PHOTO BY TAYLOR HECKART.

The front room of Beauty and the Book was packed for the Alaska Writer’s Guild’s Alaska Romance Panel on February 8, 2025.

PHOTO BY TAYLOR HECKART.

A close-up of the dark romance shelves at Beauty and the Book. Dark romance is a popular romance sub-genre.

kan authors are so prominent in the store. “I mean they have a whole section, like right up front! Not in the back!”

Another author front and center at Beauty and the Book is Neva Post. She writes Yeti romances, partially inspired by her love of the cold — courtesy of being raised in Fairbanks.

Post said that her introduction to the romance genre was “personal.”

“My husband had gone through cancer treatment, and I was at a point in my life where I just needed a happily ever after, like I needed to know at the end of the book everything was going to be okay,” said Post.

Post took up paranormal romance at the recommendation of a critique buddy, who told her to try writing a monster romance as a way to take a break from a different book draft. Through that challenge, her Alaska Yeti series was born.

“What I like about monster romance is that I think many of us can identify with maybe feeling like the odd person out,” said Post. She said that her books have themes of acceptance, because at the end of the day, the yetis in her stories are accepted and loved for who they are, claws and all.

Though romance is the most popular genre in publishing, there’s still a strong stigma around the genre, especially around those who write it. Neva Post is a pen name, partially to keep her work life and publishing life separate.

Author D.L. Darby has also seen the stigma during her time as a romance writer. Growing up in Soldotna, she said that people weren’t shocked that she was a writer, but were shocked by the genre.

“I have had people that I

know be like, ‘oh, like, aren’t you embarrassed about that?’

Or, you know, ‘isn’t your husband embarrassed about that?’”

Said Darby, “And like no, my husband’s very supportive, and I am certainly not embarrassed, because I think that sex is something that should be talked about and celebrated, and I don’t think that it should be something to be ashamed of.”

Darby had been writing since she was in elementary school.

During the pandemic she joined BookTok — the online community of book readers and reviewers on TikTok. After reading more romance, Darby felt she could write her own contemporary romance novel, and she did. Now, she has nine books out, each exploring different themes and tropes.

While not all romance novels in the genre necessarily have sex, she said that for her, sex is an important aspect of the stories she’s trying to tell.

“My husband asked me, you know, ‘can you write your books without the sex and still have a good story?’” said Darby, “And it’s like, well, yes, but that’s part of the story. It’s that intimate connection.”

On the other hand, Darby said that there is a misconception that romance novels are purely sex. The plot is still just as much an important part of the story, and Darby said that you don’t have to sacrifice either.

“You can have a really great story and still have sex.”

Loyd, the co-owner of Beauty and the Book, says that romance novel holdouts should give the genre a chance.

“I think there’s something for everyone. I think if you haven’t discovered romance yet, you just haven’t found the right book.”

08

FEATURES

Photos: The art of choosing Valentine’s treats, toys and more Consumers are selective in their choices of Valentine’s gifts.

By Anja Burnett video1@thenorthernlight.org

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner on Feb. 14, and local grocery stores are well-stocked with various treats and gifts. Some stores are overstocked with Valentine’s goodies, and it appears some consumers aren’t ready to indulge in the holiday spirit just yet. However, some plushies, limited edition chocolates and flower bouquet Legos capture consumer attention. Sexual health products like condoms and toys are locked up at the visited stores (except Carrs), prompting consumers to conjure up the courage to ask busy retail workers to unlock the case.

PHOTO BY ANJA BURNETT.

Lettered puzzle pieces that spell the word “LOVE” are fully stocked.

PHOTO BY ANJA BURNETT. PHOTO BY ANJA BURNETT.

A Valentine’s aisle at Walmart is filled with various plushies.

Valentine cards line the aisle in Carrs, ready to be picked up and brighten someone’s day on Feb. 14.

PHOTO BY ANJA BURNETT.

PHOTO BY ANJA BURNETT.

PHOTO BY ANJA BURNETT.

Flower bouquets with both traditional and candy variants wait to be picked up for a special someone.

Valentine bears holding rainbow chocolate hearts wait to be chosen at Carrs.

Sweethearts candy — a classic Valentine’s treat — has garnered very little attention, with many left in stock.

ADS

09

OPINION

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2025

10

Love is dead Spoiler: love is not actually dead — it’s complicated

By Kaitlyn Gaub admanager@thenorthernlight.org

In my 21 years of life, I have not encountered true, committed and passionate romantic love. In my own experience and my perception of others’ relationships, it seems as though many people these days are incapable of such a relationship.

The term “situationship” makes me want to walk into the woods and never return. “Talking stages” and “friends with benefits” are often sad fill-ins for people who cannot commit for whatever reason.

I myself have fallen for all of these situations. There isn’t anything inherently wrong with these encounters, if it works for you and your partner, that is great. I understand the need to discover yourself aside from a romantic or sexual relationship.

Emotional and physical distance is important at any stage of a relationship.

It is my opinion that — especially Gen Z — is incredibly poor at romantic relationships

and communication. It can be so emotionally draining to give your time and energy to someone, only for them to “ghost” you.

While I complain about casual and low-commitment relationships, they have their place in the sex and dating conversation. For some people, or for periods of someone’s life, it makes the most sense. I think where the real issue lies is that, in my experience, a lot of people in serious committed long term relationships are settling.

Whether it be the case that they are settling in terms of attraction, money, lifestyle, politics, religion, communication, etc., I think that it is the only way people know how to have long term relationships — compromise.

Please, for the love of God, bring back love letters, long walks on the beach, or romantic date nights. These things all still exist, but usually end up just being love-bombing at the beginning of a situationship.

People need to start having

genuine conversations about what they are looking for in a relationship. People like to put on a facade and say that they are looking for a long-term partner, when that statement could not be further from the truth.

I think part of the problem is some people are looking for their “soulmate.” This isn’t necessarily a problem, but it makes it difficult to casually date and get to know people when you have such loaded expectations of your potential partners.

My father has told me multiple times that everyone has a soulmate, and that people have more than one soulmate. Sometimes, I think those soulmates can be platonic ones.

Having open communication of what you are looking for is incredibly important. Tell your potential partners what you want.

Straight up. Don’t settle. Stand up for yourself and what you want from a relationship. If you aren’t satisfied, life is too short to stay in a relationship that isn’t fulfilling or healthy. Please tell your partner or person you are

PHOTO COURTESY OF CALEB EKEROTH FROM UNSPLASH.

seeing what you want and what you are unhappy with. If you want to cut it off, be an adult, and explain why you are leaving. Don’t waste your own time or anyone else’s.

College is a time of self-discovery in all aspects of life, including romance and sexuality.

Get out there and explore what you like and want, but be respectful of those you are pursuing and stay safe.

Having a supportive group of friends to talk about your relationship troubles can be incredibly helpful. While the title of this story is a tad dramatic, love is still present in the world, and it is important to find areas of your life where you feel love.

The Greeks have eight words for love, all with different forms of love. Agape, philia, eros,

Lore Accurate Humans: Johnny Sins Glazing the world’s best glazer

By Scott Hobbs associate.editor@thenorthernlight.org

When I say the name Steven Wolfe, you probably have no idea who I’m talking about.

When I say the name Johnny Sins, however, you know exactly who I’m referring to — unless you’ve been living under a rock.

But before he worked in every career field on Earth, he was a much simpler man.

Born on Dec. 31, 1978, the man formerly known as Steven Wolfe grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Describing himself as being “very shy,” it’s unlikely those around him thought he would be one of the most recognizable personalities on the internet later in his life. He worked construction and other odd jobs after graduating from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania but felt like he wasn’t living up to his full potential.

Around the age of 24 Wolfe began balding. Instead of being embarrassed, he decided to go all-in and shave his head. This — in combination with staying in great shape — helped contribute to his signature baldand-ripped look that he would become known for.

In 2006, after being out of college for a few years, Wolfe randomly decided that he wanted to spice up his life, so he became Johnny Sins and moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the adult film industry. While he would go on to become one of

the biggest faces of the industry, he wasn’t successful overnight.

He started where many people used to start — Craigslist.

This approach would end up working as he attempted to get himself into every film he could.

By dropping everything back home to devote himself fully to his craft, Sins would quickly become the go-to guy for one of the largest studios in the industry, Brazzers. A major part of what made him the go-to guy so quickly was his versatility.

What makes Sins so unique in his field is how multi-talented he is in terms of the various occupations he is qualified to portray. He’s portrayed a doctor, nurse, therapist, engineer, karate master, teacher, news anchor, plumber, pizza delivery guy, policeman, astronaut, firefighter, janitor, member of the United States Army and masseur. To say he’s a jack-of-alltrades would be the understatement of the century. In fact, it’s more apt to say he’s jacked all of the trades.

For those keeping track at home, that’s decades of college, trade school and other training that this unit of a man already had under his belt before he turned 30. No wonder he was balding by the time he turned 24, the knowledge he contained in his head was probably pushing all of his hair out.

After he reached some level of stardom, news was spread that falsely claimed Johnny Sins died in a car accident on Feb.

PHOTO COURTESY OF REDDIT.

Another one of Johnny SIns’ many talents is expertly mopping plants.

18, 2013. Luckily Sins’ untimely demise would be debunked quickly, likely because fans of his know that he’s probably a professional driver in his spare time.

Speaking of his training to be an astronaut, Sins almost became the first actor to film a scene in space along with fellow actress Eva Lovia. All the way back in 2015, Pornhub began a crowdfunding campaign to attempt to produce the first film in space with the goal of raising $3.4 million to make this feat of human history happen. Sins was excited at the opportunity to film the first adult movie in space.

Sadly, the campaign only raised $236,086, and Johnny Sins as of now still has not had his shot to pilot a rocket into space and show off his rocket.

I’m sure if he was given the chance he would show everyone just how qualified he is to pilot a spacecraft.

Aiming to expand his content beyond the film industry, Sins would branch out to YouTube and start SinsTV to give fans more of a peek behind the cur-

tain into the day-to-day life of the man of many talents. While this channel initially featured him and his partner Kissa Sins, it would ultimately shift to featuring just him after the two split in 2019. Since this split, however, the two allegedly have reconciled.

Despite initially moving to Los Angeles to pursue his career in the film industry, Sins would end up moving to Las Vegas at an unknown time, and it is where he still lives to this day.

His residing in Vegas caused quite a stir when in 2017 during the aftermath of the Las Vegas mass shooting Sins was reported missing. Once again, Sins would be declared dead by the internet.

This would be quickly disproven as many fans were relieved to hear that the star was alive and well.

Over his career, he has been nominated for 21 AVN awards, 2 Pornhub awards, 11 XBIZ awards and 4 XRCO awards.

Of these many nominations, he would win favorite male pornstar twice, best scene – vignette release, most popular male per-

pragma, storge, philautia, and ludus. In English, there is only one. We tend to limit “love” in our minds to one form.

Whether you find love from friends, family, yourself, your religion, or your community, get out there and find it. Love is actually all around.

It can be very easy to feel disdain for modern dating and romance in general. Even if a relationship doesn’t work out, it gives you experience and life lessons that will influence your future relationships.

Take a hard look at what you want and need in a relationship and go from there. At the end of the day, the most support you can find out there is within yourself or in your found family.

former by women and best dick —fan voting.

On top of the many accolades that he would earn due to his outstanding performance in the film industry, he was also quite literally everywhere in the industry. He filmed upwards of 1,000 videos for Brazzers and it is estimated that, over the course of his career, he has filmed over 3,000 videos total. At this time, that number is still climbing despite Sins shifting away from working with major studios in the industry — deciding instead to make his own content.

This model has proven successful for him as he’s been out of filming with major studios for the last 5 years but still maintains a regular upload schedule on all platforms.

Sins has also managed to stay relevant on the internet due to being available on Cameo, as well as the internet appreciating the many fields he has worked and served in — in the form of memes. This along with his Youtube channel currently sitting at 2.1 million subscribers has helped keep Sins incredibly relevant as he heads into his fifties.

I don’t think the human race will ever see another soul nearly as talented as Johnny Sins. He has captured the heart of the internet to the extent that he is always our first concern when we hear of a natural disaster, and the internet cannot rest until we find out if he is safe. A man of many vocations, a sex icon and a walking meme, Sins has had an incredible career up to this point. He is and always will be someone’s wife’s favorite doctor, therapist or whatever job arises.

OPINION

11

Sex shops in Anchorage My personal opinions on some of the sex stores in town

By Nahla White columnist2@thenorthernlight.org

Because of our geographic location and smaller population compared to other “big cities,” there aren’t many sex shops in Anchorage. I know quite a few people that order their toys and lingerie online, and that can sometimes be a cheaper alternative. However, I enjoy the instant gratification of my in-person purchases. So I decided to hit up different sex shops around town and compare them to one another.

For two of these stores it was my first time actually visiting them, so it was a really fun experience to see what they had.

Starting with arguably the largest shop in town, The Castle is located on 5th Avenue across from the Merrill Field Airport.

I had always passed by thinking it was a dingy, sleazy place that mainly catered toward an older demographic — solely based on the location and outside appearance — but I was pleasantly surprised.

One of the first things I noticed when I first walked in was that they ID’d me the moment I walked in the door. This caught me off guard a bit since I hadn’t been ID’d for any of the previous stores I visited — Spencers and The Look.

Cindie’s also does this and I think it’s because the two of them are chain stores, so the rule is more of a corporate thing rather than a law thing.

I was also caught off guard

by just how much variety was actually available. Size wise, it’s probably the biggest store in town, so it makes sense that they would have a much bigger selection of items to choose from.

I was taken aback by their selection. I would say that they have more fetish-centric sex toys and items, rather than the typical role-play costumes and props that are associated with that kind of stuff.

One thing that really separates them from Cindie’s and The Look is the amount of toys and items they have that cater toward men. Aside from the fact that there’s about two or three aisles that have more male targeted products, there’s a rather extensive collection of nude magazines and rather vintage looking adult films.

One of the cashiers that was working while I visited the store explained how it was mostly older men who bought those kinds of things, and that honestly checks out. But I still think that it’s an interesting inclusion and it’s one of the things that really separates them from the other two stores.

Overall, I think the store serves its purpose well. It’s advertised as a place for lovers, and based on the types of lingerie they sell — classy yet simple — the amount of different enhancements and aphrodisiacs they carry, and the types of toys, it achieves that goal.

The second store that I stopped at was The Look, which is located on Benson Boulevard beside Great Harvest Bread Co.

— sandwiched between a piercing/tattoo shop and a cannabis store.

I had already been to The Look a few times prior to writing this article, so I had a general idea of what it looked like and what they carried. While visiting there, I had the pleasure of speaking to a woman named Trinity, who explained a little bit of the shop’s history and gave me some insight into their consumer base.

The Look originally opened up in 1984 — three years before The Castle opened their location on 5th Avenue. As far as I’m aware, they’re the only locally owned shop in town and have an inventory that specifically caters more toward women and fems.

While they might not have as much lingerie as The Castle, they certainly have more extravagant pieces that could be used for shows, dancing, cosplays and more…elaborate roleplays?

Trinity also mentioned how they carry more outfits and garments for drag queens and male dancers.

The toys also seem to be more focused on self pleasure, while the Castle and even Cindie’s has a much bigger variety of items that can be used for partners. Overall, I love that this store is really inclusive for people that work in the sex industry — whether that’s dancing, films, webcams, etc.

For anyone that’s into the punk/alternative scene and is eager to support smaller and locally owned businesses, The Look is definitely an amazing place to

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADOBE STOCK IMAGES.

shop.

The third store I visited was Cindie’s. I remember first seeing Cindie’s when they opened their Fireweed location in 2023 but never really had the chance to stop by until writing this article. While I was there, I spoke to two women, Sara and Abby, who told me a bit more about the store. As I mentioned earlier, it’s a chain similar to The Castle and has stores in a handful of other states.

The best way I can describe Cindie’s is like a perfect blend between The Look and The Castle. It’s a much smaller, cozier store than The Castle, but they have a much wider selection of toys and sex products than The Look does. Much like The Look, they also have a lot more costumes, pieces, and toys that cater towards dancers and sex workers.

While the store does pander more toward women in most areas, their men’s section isn’t anything to scoff at, given the variety of rings, anal toys, and DVDs that they carry. They also have anime sex dolls and lifesized toys, which was something that I don’t recall seeing at the other two stores. I personally

don’t like them, but I think it’s amazing that they cater to that niche.

While this may seem like a given, one thing that I appreciated about all three stores was just how helpful and willing the staff were. Everyone is understanding, informative, and rather helpful in assisting people with finding what works best for them.

While The Look has the basics in what you need to start your personal pleasure journey, I think Cindie’s is a much better starting ground for venturing off into unfamiliar territory. The store is small enough to where you won’t feel as overwhelmed as you would in The Castle, but they have just enough stuff to expose you to the beginnings of entirely unfamiliar avenues.

All in all, each of the different stores provide something unique that the others don’t. There’s enough overlap to find some of the same products and brands in all three, but just enough variety to provide a completely different experience, which gives Anchorage some much-needed diversity in the market of adult novelties.

Super Hard News Dedicated to the gooners and goonettes

By Tanner Croft columnist.editor@thenorthernlight.org

Most of my readers know by now that it is pretty uncommon for an article to be written by me that is actually hard news.

I write columns such as movie and restaurant reviews, my advice column and the occasional piece about social life on campus. Well, over the last year or so, I have been told that I need to focus more on becoming a real journalist who reports on hardhitting news coverage. That is why I have decided to deliver my readers some super hard friggin’ news in this sex edition.

What is this super hard news you might ask? Well, recently, the Adult Video News — AVN — awards were hosted in Las Vegas on Jan. 25. I have decided to fill my audience with knowledge about the leaps and strokes adult stars have been making in the business. So sit down, strapon and buckle up because this is about to be a wild ride sure to last more than eight seconds.

This article will break down the biggest names in the industry and tell you what they’ve been getting up to — or going

down on — in the last year.

The top performers of the year are all separated into three different categories. Trans, female, and male performers. The top trans performer this year was Brittney Kade, the top female performer of the year was Anna Claire Clouds and the top male performer of the year was Vince Karter. Congratulations to each of these stars and starlets. We here at The Northern Light understand how hard you’ve had to work to come out on top.

However, no one has had to work harder than some of the old pros of the industry. The AVN Awards have a dedicated category to MILF performer of the year. So here’s to all of you with an Oedipus complex: Cherie DeVille won the MILF Performer of the Year, proving that she can be just as suck-cessful as the younger performers.

Of course, as we all know, no porn flick would be complete without the emotional support actress/actor. So the awards for Best Supporting Actress and Actor go to Chanel Camryn and Nathan Bronson. Thanks for being on set — even if your clothes did stay on.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AVN ADULT ENTERTAINMENT EXPO.

A personal favorite award of mine this year is the award for the most clever title. This year’s winner was a film titled “My Talking Penis Told Me To Fuck My Step-Mom.” Oh porn, please go back to being ridiculous like you were in the old days. I miss Johnny Sins mopping plants in the background. This title reminds me of that old school humor, although I have not actually verified the ridiculousness of this film first hand.

Unfortunately, the AVN Awards do not have a category dedicated to male/male performances. However, they do have categories for girl/girl, trans, and boy/girl. Not all titles can be as good as the Most Creative Title of the year though, like the winner of the best girl/girl scene, titled “Titwoman vs Titwoman.”

Derogatory, unfunny, and uncreative, but congratulations to Blake Blossom and Octavia Red for their win in the category.

The best trans film of the year is titled: “D.O.L.L.S.” Congratulations to Siri Dahl, Avery Jane,

Leana Lovings, Zariah Aura, Eva Maxim and Khloe Kay for their success this year.

The best boy/girl scene of the year with a horrible name is “Kink Label Volume 3,” and stars Chris Diamond and Angel Windell. So congratulations to them on your shining achievement. Really though, the whole industry needs to start putting more effort into the names and creativity of their films.

Now, for the awards that everyone has undoubtedly been waiting and edging on their seats for — the fan selections. I don’t know about you, but I have never been horny enough to submit a comment on PornHub, let alone vote for the AVN Awards.

But thankfully, there are some dedicated fans out there, so I get to see all of the submissions without putting in any effort.

Just like sex with an overly eager dom.

I won’t go through every category, since there are so many, and I am sure most of the readers are eager to investigate these

winners and do some super-hard journalism for themselves. So let’s just have a quickie.

Angela White won the fan vote for favorite female pornstar of the year. Milan Ponjevic won the fan vote for favorite male pornstar of the year. Daisy Taylor won the fan vote for favorite trans pornstar of the year. Dan Dangler won the fan vote for the hottest porn newcomer. And lastly, Eliza Ibarra won the fan vote for unsung darling.

There are many other winners of different AVN Awards categories, but sadly, we just don’t have enough in the tank to cover them all right now. That is now your job. Go cover them all.

Get messy, make a whole night of it. Buy a candle and some flowers. Treat yourself tonight — you deserve it.

This was some super hard news, and that can be a lot to handle. Take — or get — a load off. Relax. And be sure to cum again.

12

OPINION

Croft’s Comments Surprisingly sexy submissions from y’all

By Tanner Croft columnist.editor@thenorthernlight.org

To preface these responses I will note that there are some abbreviations used: FWB: friends with benefits. MMF: male-malefemale. STD: sexually transmitted disease. STI: sexually transmitted infection. SHCC: Student Health and Counseling Center. PSC: Psychological Services Center. UPD: University Police Department.

Q: What sex position produces the ugliest children?

A: From TNL managing editor: “Reverse cowgirl. It’s all shins and toes for women. How the f*** could that make a cute baby?”

Q: What is the best way to have a threesome?

A: Preferably with two other consenting parties.

Q: Sexual assault is hard to talk about. I know I have been in situations that, in retrospect, were sexual assault. How would you recommend people find support, as well as resources for explaining proper consent?

A: It is hard to talk about, but it shouldn’t be. This should be something that we are all educated on and communicate about. As far as support goes, there are many on campus resources, such as the SHCC, PSC and UPD. There are also support groups in town that offer group therapy. The Health Promotion Team can assist students and community members in understanding consent. Health Promotion Team faculty member Summer Sweet wrote an amazing article on consent for this edition.

Q: Why do most men in heterosexual settings not care about female pleasure?

A: There are several factors that can contribute to this thought process. For generations, the belief was that sex was not meant to be pleasurable, and was only meant for reproduction.

Because of that, the only important orgasm was the man’s. This could contribute to current beliefs surrounding heterosexual pleasure. Another contributing factor is the emphasis on the male orgasm in porn. Like it or not, porn is a widely consumed form of media and one where many people have their first experience watching a sexual act.

This emphasis on the male orgasm can mess with the thought processes of not only men but everyone who watches it. I am not saying porn is bad, but it is important to differentiate it from real life.

Q: How many licks do you think it takes to get to the center of YOUR Tootsie Pop?

A: The world may never know.

Q: What’s the best sex shop in Anchorage?

A: One of our columnists, Nahla White, has a great article in this edition of the paper about her favorite sex shops. You should check it out.

Q: Where is the clitoris?

A: The journey to it is long and arduous. Many have wandered out into the great unknown, never to return. In summary, no one knows. It is likely that we may never know.

Q: Why do guys not touch the clit?

A: They can’t find it.

Q: A guy told me we’re exclusive FWB?? Is that not just dating?

A: Kind of, but not really.

There are many reasons why he may want to be exclusive with his sexual partners. It is safer to have sexual encounters with only one person regularly than it is to seek out multiple partners over a short period of time.

If this is a one-sided exclusivity, though, I would reconsider the terms of the relationship. It is not fair for them to demand that you remain loyal to them while they seek other partners — unless that is something that you are interested in. However, it is possible to remain solely friends with benefits, be exclusive, and have no strings attached if everyone is on the same page with their communication. Consent on all sides is key.

Q: Are dry orgasms a thing?

A: Yes. They occur when little to no semen is released upon climax.

Q: How do you have the “what are we” conversation?

A: Be honest with your feelings. If they do not respect your feelings, let them go.

Q: My FWB wants me to wear pigtails. Is this a red flag???

A: Not necessarily, but it could be if there are other red flags that emerge.

Q: Guys always get weird when I ask if they are clean?

A: Then they probably aren’t clean.

Q: I think I have an STD, HELP! A: SHCC is your best bet to get tested and find out. Hopefully you are able to get some antibiotics and get back in the game. P.S. I believe they are now referred to as STIs. Q: I have a new partner, and have been bleeding after sexual encounters. Is this something I need to worry about? Or is it fine?

GRAPHIC BY EDLEEN GUIAO.

A: Some conditions like PCOS and endometriosis can cause bleeding after sex. Definitely visit the SHCC to get checked out. It is much better to be safe than sorry. I’m not sure about you, but I like my reproductive organs to be operating at their best, all of the time.

Q: Where do you get off (place and time?)

A: Wouldn’t you like to know?

Q: Blue balls, true or real?

A: While it is a real condition, my belief is that the severity is often exaggerated. Never let anyone pressure you into sexual activity due to “blue balls.”

Q: Help, I’m trapped in fuzzy handcuffs!

A: There should be a release lever on one of the cuffs. Try to find it and release it. Or, plead with your dom to see if they will release you. Check back in the next Croft’s Comments and let us know if you managed to escape.

Q: How do I find a third, for a casual thing? my FWB wants to do MMF. A: Be as honest as possible with potential suitors. Let them know exactly what the expectation is, and what the boundaries are. The dating apps are a good place to start, but the bars are where you will find more likely candidates. Just ensure you are not unicorn hunting.

Q: I’m in a FWB situation with this guy. I like spending time with him, chatting and whatnot, but when we aren’t in person he’s really terrible about communication. The sex isn’t anything to write home about either. We had initially started dating, but switched to keeping it casual. Why is it hard to cut it off if neither the friends nor the benefits are being met?

A: It is hard to leave a comfortable position. You aren’t sure of the next partner you might have, and it is nice to know that you are desired as of right now.

Even if things aren’t perfect, you know that someone wants you, so you stay. It is hard to leave because of the unknown that comes with what’s next.

Q: I felt like the question about sex positions on the TNL quiz was specifically written from a very male perspective and not particularly creative.

Can you speak more on posi-

tions that focus on a woman’s pleasure?

A: I am going to defend the creators of the sex poll. The positions question listed the most common positions that the staff here could think of. There was an “other” category which allowed submissions that were more creative if people wanted to fill that out. To answer the question though, positions that focus more on a woman’s pleasure according to my ex would be f***ing my best friend.

Q: Tanner, I’m a bi woman and have been wanting to find a woman to date, but I feel like every woman I am interested in is straight. Do you have any advice?

A: The only advice I can give is that being completely honest, straightforward and open works out so much better than you think it will. Ask people directly. Being straightforward and getting a response, positive or negative, is better than living in the unknown. Most importantly though, find the person who wrote the question right under this one. I feel like y’all would make a great couple.

Q: I (22F) think this girl in my class is really cute. Do you have any advice on how to gauge if she’s into girls?

A: The only way to gauge is by asking. It’s super stressful and it’s gonna give you anxiety, but it is the only way to know for sure. Live Más, my friend.

Q: Do straight men really exist or are they just an urban legend? I feel like I’ve never actually met one before…

A: I’m not gay, but 20 bucks is 20 bucks.

Q: What do you think the optimal dildo size is?

A: Anything that fits.

Q: Twink?

A: Me? Definitely not.

Q: I faked an orgasm, and later fessed up. But then he ghosted me. Who’s at fault?

A: Honestly? Both of you.

Ideally, you should not feel the need to fake an orgasm. Faking an orgasm can create a tension in the trust that you share with your partner. However, it is also partly his fault for not being mature enough to understand that it really isn’t that big of a deal.

Q: Why do guys like anal so much?

A: It is taboo. People always want what they cannot have, and most of the time they are told that is a thing that they cannot have.

Now for answers to some of the non-sex related questions and comments.

Q: How do you grow such a magical beard?

A: Good genetics and an abundance of testosterone.

Q: I cannot stand one of my professors but the class is mandatory for my major. What to do?

A: Suffer through. Try your hardest to get along with them and form some kind of rapport. If you’re religious, pray. If you’re not, pray.

Q: What’s your advice for someone who avoids the gaming lounge because of the heinous green and yellow lighting?

A: Have some more school spirit, bleed green and gold. Or ask them to change the lighting.

Q: Why are there no couches in the Den? A: This is something I have been asking since I arrived here.

We need more couches! I have noticed that there are couches under the stairs right next to the Den now though. I wonder if those are a recent addition?

Q: Any advice on a prior service infantryman wanting to be a combat medic?

A: Good luck. Study hard. In infantry terms, oonga boonga.

Hooah.

Q: Have you ever researched the Psychological Services Center at UAA? It’s greatly benefited me by offering affordable therapy, and I feel like it might be really beneficial for you or your readers. Let’s fight the stigma around therapy!

A: We love destigmatizing mental health! Everyone should go to therapy! Visit our PSC for individual therapy, couples therapy, diagnoses and more!

Q: If all the land on earth was made of cotton candy, but the oceans were still water, how long would it take for all ground to dissolve?

A: It depends on how many people were also eating the land while they were on it. Wow, that feels like a pretty deep metaphor for the destruction of the planet.

OPINION

13

Just Sociology Tings: Sex work is real work

By Nahla White columnist2@thenorthernlight.org

It’s hard to open up an article like this because, admittedly, I had almost no knowledge about sex work besides what is portrayed in the media.

From what I have read online and in articles, most people talk and complain about it like any other job or profession. While the risk for violence is much higher considering how clients often violate the boundaries and consent of providers, I’ve heard people acknowledge that it doesn’t deter them from continuing their services.

In this article, I want to have an open mind and acknowledge that I am speaking from an entirely outside perspective. While there are many service providers that resort to sex work due to their circumstances/poor financial situation, I know that is not the entirety of the industry.

Not all sex workers were forced into prostitution, abused, or trafficked.

Yet, I want to remain respectful to anyone who has experienced these things.

With that being said, I wholeheartedly believe that sex work is real work. Not in a girlboss feminism way, but in a way that acknowledges all the work that goes into maintaining appearances, cleanliness, and safety while the industry remains under constant scrutiny.

Even though working in the sex industry does have many cons — the risk of sexual assault, abuse, trafficking, ostracization, etc. — the thought and care that goes into providing these services is no different

from almost any other job in the service industry.

That isn’t meant to diminish the greater risks and responsibilities involved because, in many ways, the adult entertainment industry takes a much greater toll on workers than regular service jobs.

I feel the lack of recognition sex workers get is due to society’s harmful obsession with purity culture.

Purity culture revolves around the belief that people should abstain from sex until marriage and should try their absolute hardest to maintain their purity and virginity. It originated as an Evangelical movement in the 1990s as a direct response to the mass production of birth control and the subsequent sexual liberation movement of the 1970s.

All over the world, we’ve seen the influence that religion can have on politics, societal norms, and trends. The U.S. is no different.

According to Pew Research Center, an estimated 64% of Americans identify with Christianity in some way or form, making it the most popular religion in the nation.

While people practice their faith to varying degrees, I don’t think it’s a stretch to make the assumption that some of the beliefs at the center of that religion are one of the main reasons why our society has such an aversion to sex. Because of the correlation between the Christian religion and virtuous morals, society automatically labels any opposition as inherently unethical or dangerous.

With the adult entertainment industry heavily relying on peo-

ple’s feelings of lust and desire in order to turn a profit — feelings that are explicitly called out as being unholy in the Bible — this leaves a line of work viewed as inherently bad. As a result, the character and motives of the people who actually perform these jobs are completely disregarded.

I don’t like normally using legalese terms because I think they’re pretentious, but prostitution falls into the category of crimes called mala prohibita.

These are acts that are only considered crimes because the law says so. They differentiate from mala in se crimes, which are acts that are criminalized because they’re inherently bad — murder, rape, theft, kidnapping, etc.

While many people would cite public safety and health as a legitimate reason to criminalize prostitution, I don’t necessarily think this is the right approach.

A lot of people in favor of keeping prostitution illegal often cite numerous different reasons why it should remain that way, including the association of other crimes such as drug dealing and theft, as well as the increase of STDs that would be spread otherwise.

State and municipality governments that prohibit prostitution on the basis of cracking down on crime and maintaining public health don’t address the underlying socioeconomic factors that drive people into careers like this in the first place.

Prostitution — much like many other crimes — stems from poverty and necessity. Simply making it illegal doesn’t actually help in the long run.

Criminalizing prostitution doesn’t crack down on it. It just

makes it more dangerous. While the two aren’t fully comparable, we can see the positive effects of legalization in allowing the use of recreational marijuana.

Here in Alaska, we have allowed licensed businesses to sell marijuana in a similar manner to alcohol. This makes the substance more accessible to everyone. It allows safer strands of the drug to be grown and distributed, decreasing the demand for strands off of the street that could be mixed with more harmful and illegal drugs.

I know it sounds idealistic to say that prostitution would work the same. However, if the right precautions are taken and applied by law, it very well could.

Allowing establishments to operate without having to remain undercover or below ground would facilitate more efficient means of running the business. That calls for better protective measures to be applied to workers, and protocols that allow people to reach out to law enforcement in the event that abuse does happen.

People who are self-employed would also have an easier time reaching out to law enforcement in the cases of assault and rape, since the risk of being arrested due to their job wouldn’t be as high.

It would also allow for more efficient health screenings and STI prevention if state laws require establishments to ensure that their clientele don’t carry harmful diseases and provide adequate protection for workers.

This isn’t a perfect solution by any means. Studies have shown that in countries where prostitution is decriminalized, the rates of human trafficking

increase, and many attribute that to the issue of supply and demand. This is one of the many problems that people in support of decriminalizing prostitution tend to overlook.

What makes it worse is that there aren’t many elaborate studies of the effects of prostitution on human trafficking in the United States. Because of the industry’s illegal status, there doesn’t seem to be enough of a public interest for the government to invest the time and resources on the matter.

The optimist in me likes to think that extensive research and elaborate laws would help minimize these issues, or at least prevent them from becoming worse than they already are.

The reality of the situation is that the issue is much more nuanced than people on both ends of the argument acknowledge.

While I have heard of many people in opposition of full legalization, I’ve heard just as many people in support of it.

In the Q&A I conducted alongside this article, all three of the participants interviewed said they supported decriminalization due to its potential to make the industry safer.

I want people to walk away from this article and take time to think about how we view the sex work industry. All institutional and societal problems start at the psychological level.

Creating a big enough cultural shift that would make the sex industry safer requires us to check our own biases and reshape the way we view it.

14

OPINION

Q&A with sex workers Disclaimer: The views of the participants do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Northern Light or its staff. TNL does not recommend or condone participating in illegal activities.

By Nahla White columnist2@thenorthernlight.org

In preparation for our “sex work is real work” article, The Northern Light reached out to women who worked in the sex industry across various domains to ensure we were writing about the field in a respectful manner.

Whenever it comes to writing about issues that I don’t have much knowledge in, I always want to center my work around the people who are most directly impacted by the issues I discuss.

Which is why I’m happy these participants took the time to answer these questions — sharing their thoughts and experiences.

While I wanted to keep the answers as close as I could to the original responses, they have been slightly edited for the sake of readability. And in order to prevent the participants from being stigmatized in their personal lives, they all requested to remain anonymous for this Q&A. Question 1: What made you decide to get into sex work?

Answer 1: I grew up poor and watched my family struggle to pay bills, and I wanted to make sure my family had everything they needed. I had also always been a very sexually liberated person, so I knew it would come easy to me.

Answer 2: Social media was a big influence in my decision to become a dancer, but my sister getting the job solidified it.

Answer 3: My boyfriend at the time told me I should do it so he didn’t have to work, and I took care of us with the work I was doing Question 2) Do you regret entering the industry? Have you enjoyed working in the industry? Has it just been like any other job with regular ups and downs?

Answer 1: I wouldn’t say I regret going into this line of work. I try to live my life with 0 regrets and instead just look at a situation like: “Well that happened. Maybe shouldn’t have done that.” I made this choice and it, in most ways, has served its purpose, so I don’t regret it. I have enjoyed the industry a lot throughout my eight years doing sex work, but the reality is that I personally believe it’s a very toxic industry that can lead to a lot of dark places.

Answer 2: This industry is no different than any other. You make friends, you make en-

emies. Your boss is either cool as hell or on a power trip. You have your good customers and you have your bad ones. To me, it was like any other customer service day job, except I was topless.

Answer 3: I didn’t regret going into sex work till the end of my career. I still will go back if I have to, but it wasn’t till I found a man that looked at me in a way that wasn’t just for my body and made me feel beautiful and sexy without sexual tension. Before the man I’m with, I thought it was fine and I loved it. I didn’t realize that I was more than a sex object. I slowly started to realize that my whole life was me starving myself to stay skinny and doing my makeup, and getting my hair done to please everyone around me. I wouldn’t say I regret the last three years, but I wish someone was there to tell me I was more than an object.

makes you a living is work. As long as no one is being harmed, I don’t turn my nose up to any profession.

Answer 3: I do believe sex work is real work no matter what it is. “You have to do what you have to do.” But I believe if you go into sex work, you most definitely have to be strong mentally because if not it will break you more then a “normal” 9-5 job.

Question 3) What kind of sex work have you done in the past?

Would you say you have a preferred avenue?

Answer 1: My main avenue of sex work is stripping. I have also done online work such as OnlyFans and Fansly. I have been a sugar baby. I have even dabbled one time in full service sex work but decided it wasn’t for me.

Full service is anything illegal or considered prostitution. I’ve done “the girlfriend experience” where I got paid to go on dates or talk on the phone with men for money and make them feel special. I’m sure there’s more that I can’t think of at the moment.

Answer 2: I started with selling photos online. To this day, it’s my preferred avenue of work in the industry.

Answer 3: I have only worked in a strip club (giving lap dance and dancing onstage).

Question 5) What do you think are some of the biggest risks associated with the industry?

Answer 1: There’s an endless number of risks. With dancing there’s injury, both physical and sexual assault, you can get stiffed or robbed, you can have abusive and manipulative managers and club owners who don’t treat you right, you can fall into a drug or alcohol addiction, and it can cause you to be completely irresponsible with money. You feel that whatever you spend today you’ll just make back tomorrow. Other risks are any illness you can get from being in close quarters with others. Lots of colds and viruses because you’re in each other’s bubbles.

Online sex work leaves a paper trail if you’re not careful. It can lead to loss of future employment opportunities and your friends and family finding out.

It can also lead to revenge porn or your content getting leaked without your permission.

Answer 2: I think men have always been and will always be the biggest risk associated with this industry.

Answer 3: The biggest risk to me is happiness — not only for myself but relationships around me. Yes, I would make good money — but at what cost? And, of course, the worry of a customer finding out my real name and trying to get a hold of me in the “real world.”

Question 4) How do you feel about the phrase “sex work is real work?”

Answer 1: I have done many different kinds of sex work so it would depend on what kind I would say is just like any other job. I think it shouldn’t have a stigma around it, and should be viewed and respected like any other job, but overall it’s not just like any other job. I do believe sex work is real work. Just like any other job where you make money providing a service. It’s always referred to as the longest running profession.

Answer 2: Anything that

Question 6) Do you think the risk outweighs the reward? Or does it depend on the specific type of sex work?

Answer 1: I think it depends on the person. You have to have extremely thick skin and an even better time compartmentalizing to be in this line of work. For me, it is worth it. But to someone who isn’t able to deal with the mental toll — it’s not worth it.

Answer 2: In my opinion and experience, it depends on the type of work. Some work settings are safer than others. I felt very safe as a dancer because of all the cameras and security,

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADOBE STOCK IMAGES.

some branches of the industry don’t have that.

Answer 3: In my case, I found it worth it because I was able to support myself, and my family and friends, but I was only a stripper. I have never been paid to do anything else. I can’t speak from experience, but I feel like someone who gets paid for sex is taking a lot more risk for safety, in regards to no one is there to protect them and STDs (no judgement or hate).

Question 7) How do you feel about the decriminalization of sex work?

Answer 1: I 100% believe sex work should be decriminalized.

It would make it safer and make it easier for sex workers in “legal” fields to advocate for themselves more.

Answer 2: I think decriminalization would make the women in the industry safer in the long run.

Answer 3: I feel like all sex work should be decriminalized because if someone wants to go work and use there body to do so, it is up to them, and if someone wants to pay for that, then it is up to them. Both parties know what they are doing.

Question 8) What do you think would help destigmatize sex work?

Answer 1: I have a hard time answering what would help destigmatize it. I feel like, at this current moment it’s extremely glamorized, and that’s leading to a lot of young girls thinking they can make a huge amount of money without knowing all of the risks. I don’t want to gatekeep by any means, but I feel that some stigma should remain because it is a difficult and dirty job at times, and it’s not for the faint of heart, and in my opinion should never be the first choice.

Answer 2: I think most of the stigma is from ignorance. If people educated themselves just a little bit, they would have a better understanding.

Answer 3: I think if there was a way to get a certificate in order to do sex work, it would make everything easier, but at that point I feel like there should

be health insurance involved to make sure they are safe.

Question 9: What do you think people who are considering entering the industry should know about it beforehand?

Answer 1) I would tell them that they shouldn’t. Unless there’s absolutely zero options left, it’s not worth it. It takes such a toll on your body and especially your mind. It affects your self esteem. It’s not easy being a piece of meat for sale, and that’s exactly how these men will treat you. It also affects your sex life. When sex is your job — or at least the fantasy of sex is — it makes it very hard to have a sex drive outside of work. If you get assaulted a lot at work, it can make it hard for you to want to be touched by a partner at home.

Answer 2) You have to work hard. Money doesn’t just flood in from the very beginning. Be likeable.

Answer 3) No matter what someone says about you, it doesn’t matter, you will not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that is fine. Not everyone is going to agree on what you are doing, and that’s fine. Always remember your self-worth. As long as you are happy and ok with what is going on, keep on doing it.

Question 10) Is there anything else that you think people should know about the industry as a whole?

Answer 1: It should be a last option, but there’s no shame in doing sex work. It just takes a real toll on you. Get in, get your money — save as much as you can — don’t drink too much, and if you do, don’t drive, don’t do drugs, trust your gut, and then get out. It’s so easy to get sucked back in.

Answer 2: The industry doesn’t define you. I wasn’t just a dancer, I was also a devoted (spouse and parent). Other sex workers have degrees, or go to college, or have small businesses. It’s a job.

Answer 3: Just know what you are getting yourself into.

Go into it with a clear headspace. Don’t let anyone push you past your boundaries.

OPINION

15

Right Answers Only: Sex is a detestable sin Satire: Sex

By Scott Hobbs associate.editor@thenorthernlight.org

Unless you’ve lived a life of ignorance and bliss, at some point you found out about the birds and the bees. Whether it’s the most awkward conversation you’ll ever have with your parents or a health presentation full of laughter at every word, sex is a fact of life. Dread it, run from it — sex arrives all the same.

I don’t think it should. You see, I am of the mindset that sex causes many issues, especially at such a formative time for so many young adults who are making their way through the college experience.

Some colleges, including UAA, attempt to mitigate the negative aspects of sex by providing educational materials as well as protection in student bathrooms. To me, all this does is plant the seed in a student’s mind that sex is good.

I am here to end this awful narrative. Sex is a detestable sin, and no one should be doing it.

A study conducted by Sesame shows that not only do STIs typically run rampant through college campuses, but also that students have a tendency to get around. The survey of college students found that about 25% of college students have an STI, with a significant amount being asymptomatic.

Of the students surveyed, 57% said they had never been tested for an STI. Of those surveyed who did have an STI, 14% admitted they had lied about having one for various reasons.

Beyond just the danger of contracting STIs, this survey was also enlightening as to the frequency that college students appear to be doing the deed.

Of those surveyed, 70% said they expected to have as much or more sex than the prior year.

Since this survey was conducted in 2022, I can only imagine this percentage has jumped to an even more staggering figure.

Not only are students expecting to have more sex, but 28% of students had at least 10 sexual encounters per month, and 9% indicated they have at least five different partners per month.

All of this data demonstrates that college students are not only spreading STIs like crazy, but they cannot be trusted to keep it in their pants. It points to the fact that students should not be having sex, and making that major change starts with marketing an alternative.

The initial alternative that will come to many people’s minds is soaking. This because the act of soaking has been viewed by those outside the LDS church to be not only ridiculous, but also not sexual in nature.

However, in a hearing to determine the ex-communication of an apostle back in 1885, Joseph F. Smith — nephew of LDS founder Joseph Smith — determined an act similar to soak-

ing was a transgression, subsequently excommunicating the apostle as a result.

So if soaking isn’t on the table — and toys aren’t either — what is?

The real answer lies in abstinence. For starters, you can’t get an STI if you abstain from doing the devil’s tango — plain and simple.

There are so many more benefits than just not being diseaseridden that come from avoiding sex. Here’s a rundown of some of the major benefits: Students who abstain from intercourse will get better grades. It’s way easier to get A’s in all your classes if you’re actually doing the work instead of your partner. The stereotype of those with 4.0 GPAs getting no play, while students with lower GPAs are busy wearing out their campus-provided mattresses exists for a reason.

If all students abstain from sex, UAA will be the first campus to have an entire graduating class of students achieving the distinction of Summa Cum Laude by 2028.

Another major benefit of abstinence is improved sleep. It’s hard for students to find time between class, homework, extracurriculars, family life, self-care and other important commitments to bone. This often results in students choosing to forgo a good night of sleep to instead get laid.

This practice is the main contributor to students being sleepdeprived, and will not only

keep the pair that are smashing awake, but also roommates or upstairs and downstairs neighbors they might have. If students on campus no longer engage in the act, all students will get a full and healthy 10 hours of sleep every night of the week.

Many college students are looked up to by younger siblings or other peers around them because of the seemingly spotless model they set for living good lives.

However, if they are filling themselves or their partners instead of spending time on school — as many college students do — they are setting a bad example for those who look up to them. Abstinence takes the pressure of choosing between being a good example or being wrong out of the hands of the student and empowers them to be a confident, sex-free role model.

Abstinence will also lead to students being generally less sexually driven. If it wasn’t obvious by the popular adult website OnlyFans generating $6.3 billion in 2024, many people — a significant amount of whom are most definitely college students — are addicted to sex and everything surrounding it.

So many college students having sex so frequently and being addicted to things surrounding sex has led to superficial relationships and is a major reason students are so dopamine-deprived. Abstinence will not only put an end to all the evil adult websites, but it will also put good personalities back at the

GRAPHIC BY EDLEEN GUIAO.

To spread awareness of my call for campus-wide abstinence, I will be wearing a chastity belt on my head until further notice.

forefront of relationships — and smiles back on students’ faces.

Now, despite all the positive benefits an abstinence-forward campus would have, some people are of the mindset that forced abstinence goes too far in the wrong direction and will cause more harm than good. To that, I say, look at the state of most college students, and notice that they’re typically degenerates and they’re able to have sex. If sex is taken out of that equation, college students will finally get their act together and be ready to be productive members of our great capitalist machine when they graduate instead of being an eight-year super senior more interested in coitus than class.

Sex is bad. It’s icky, it’s everywhere and it’s overstayed its welcome. I, for one, am not only a proponent of abstinence being enforced on college campuses but worldwide. If clergy in the Catholic Church are able to be celibate and have no issues, I don’t see why that can’t extend to the rest of the world.

Let’s talk about sex, Alaska High STI rates and low contraceptive use reveal gaps in education, access, and care across the state

By Allex Mahanna and Sofia Sytniak Contributors

Alaska is facing a sexual and reproductive health crisis. The state currently leads the nation in gonorrhea cases, ranks third for chlamydia, and holds the 11th highest rate of syphilis per capita. Bottom line: Alaskans are much more likely to get sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, than people in other states.

This is especially concerning for teenagers, as nearly half, 46%, of Alaskan high school students reported not using a condom during their last sexual encounter.

Alaska’s approach to sexual health education leaves many people without the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Unlike a majority of states, Alaska does not require sex education in schools, leaving it up to individual school districts to decide if and how to offer it.

Studies tell us this is the wrong approach! Decades of research show that comprehensive sex education improved health outcomes, yet many students in Alaska receive incomplete or exclusionary instruction — if they

receive any at all.

When sex education ignores diverse experiences and focuses only on heterosexual and cisgender relationships, it leaves gaps in understanding. In the absence of accurate information, misinformation about contraception, STIs, and healthy relationships can spread widely. Limited discussion also reinforces stigma, making it harder for people to communicate with partners or seek healthcare when needed.

In rural communities, these challenges are even greater. Limited healthcare access means fewer opportunities for testing, treatment, and reproductive care. And when providers are unfamiliar with community needs — whether that be Indigenous, rural, or LGBTQIA2S+ populations — patients may feel unheard or uncomfortable seeking care. Bias, whether outright discrimination or more subtle stigma, can further discourage people from accessing critical health services.

Access to a wide variety of essential sexual healthcare services in Alaska remains a challenge. Many people struggle to obtain internal and external condoms, birth control pills, intrauterine devices, or IUDs,

implants, injections, and emergency contraception like Plan B. Other critical services such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV, prevention medications and abortion care are also difficult to access, worsening the state’s sexual health crisis.

Addressing these issues requires expanding access to inclusive, medically accurate sex education and culturally competent healthcare. All Alaskans need access to resources to improve our public health.

Alaskans are pushing for change! Improving sexual health requires breaking down barriers to services, expanding education, and encouraging open conversations.

House Bill 17, which aimed to require insurance companies in Alaska to expand birth control prescriptions from 1-3 months to 12 months, had congressional support but was ultimately vetoed by Governor Dunleavy.

Despite setbacks, policy advocacy remains critical to expanding contraception access and other essential services.

Community-driven initiatives like I Know Mine and We R Native provide education and resources to promote healthy

PHOTO COURTESY OF COTTONBRO STUDIO.

relationships and well-being.

Alaskans ages 14 to 26 can also use the My Best Alaskan Life tool to make informed decisions about their sexual health. These efforts support individuals in taking control of their well-being.

Several organizations in Anchorage provide free or low-cost STI testing and sexual health resources to support informed decision-making.

Identity provides LGBTQIA2S+-affirming care.

Additionally, Planned Parenthood, Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center, Four A’s (Alaskan AIDS Assistance Association), and the Municipality of Anchorage Public Health Clinic offer confidential sexual health services.

The Student Health and Counseling Center supports sexual health by providing free

contraceptives and low-cost STI testing. For those seeking free condoms, the Anchorage Health Department offers an online locator tool.

You can be a part of the solution! Talk to your friends and partners, call out misinformation, go get tested, and advocate for access to reliable sexual health resources in Alaska. Push for policies that expand contraception, STI testing, and inclusive sex education — contact your representatives and make your voice heard. Change will not happen without action. Stay informed, speak up, and fight for a healthier future for all Alaskans!

Sofia Sytniak has a M.S. in Clinical Psychology and is a Ph.D. student in UAA’s Clinical-Community Psychology program. Allex Mahanna is in the Master of Public Health program at UAA.

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POLL CREATED BY SCOTT HOBBS. GRAPHIC BY LINNAEA GOSSARD.