Feeding Hungry Minds

First Book and Interbake foods successfully launched a new program today in conjunction with Costco to get more books into the hands of children. The Mayor and I came to read with the children today and watch a wonderful program they had planned for us. Since the conception of First Book in Alaska we have put over 65,000 books in the hands of children who may not otherwise receive books for a variety of reasons. Since 1992 First book National has put over 60 million books in the hand of children in need. Some recent data shows that in lower income areas the ratio could be as low as 1 book per 300 children . Studies have shown and continue to show that access to a wide variety of reading material is essential if a child is to develop into a strong reader. This program is one of the most amazing groups I belong to and am always amazed at the difference one book can make.

Armed Services YMCA

Go Red Lunch

Today I had the honor to attend and help with the American Heart Association's Go Red lunch in Anchorage. There were so many people, men and women in attendance for this amazing cause I was so proud to be a part of it.In conjunction with Providence Hospital there were booths, break out rooms, amazing speakers and of course prizes galore.

The education opportunities to learn about your heart and possible risks and ways to detect them were un believable. Of course I had my blood pressure checked. 110/60 and vowed to keep a check on it every 6 months . I was able to speak with some incredible speakers on ways to lower your risk of a heart attack, simple things actually... An hour a day of exercise, eating fresh foods, high fiber diet,watching your weight,limit your salt intake, cut back on sugar as I was going along thinking how great I could do on all of this the next one caught me off guard, drink more water? My very worst by far , I never drink water. I live on coffee! So I am asking you all to please find one thing to change in your lifestyle to help you live healthier and I will make the pledge to drink more water . At least 8 glasses a day. Simple choices make big differences, join me in the effort to reduce heart risks in not only adults but our children.

2009 Fur Rondy Grand Parade

Fur Rondy is back! Since 1935 this amazing festival has celebrated the return of miners and trappers back to Anchorage.One of the highlights of the Fur Rendezvous is the Grand Parade which is the kick off to the event that lasts 1 weeks. We have ice sculptor contests, balls, ice fishing, so many events I can not list them all. Needless to say this event not only attracts Alaskans but people from all over the world!
This year I was honored to be escorted by Soldiers from the Alaska Army National Guard in the most "decked out" SUSV I am sure I will ever see. I can not wait to get out and see what the next two weeks bring !