St. George's Episcopal Church

There is always hope

These are very serious times. I’m so proud of Cordovans focusing on social distancing—and helping each other to stay well and safe by staying at home. We have marvelous medical, emergency, and essential workers. We will get through this! This beautiful spring weather with the sun and the eagles flying is really helping me. I find extra joy in the raven and crow shenanigans. And as I walk or bike around town for exercise—I see new views of our gorgeous snow covered mountains and appreciate the smell of the sea—and fresh air after a little rain. I find I’m calling friends new and old–delighting in the sounds of their voices.

Our lives have changed so much in these last few weeks. What will our future be? Sometimes we need to read between the lines to see the good coming out of tragedies; to see the blessings coming out of the ashes. Have you noticed that we bless others as we help them and they bless us as we help them? The time is coming when we are called to share even more–both here and around the world. Cordova is a place where there are many, many wonderful people–and wonderful things are happening and will continue to happen. We are leaders! Right now we need to choose life—choosing to keep everyone healthy.

Let’s pray together… Your prayer might be the one that makes the difference! I love these words from Isaiah, “My house shall be a house of prayer for all Nations.“ Prayer changes us to be people filled with love and energy, confidence, courage, strength and peace… People that help, listen and learn from others… People that care for each other deeply… People that work together for creative solutions to everyday—as well bigger problems—like keeping everyone hale and hearty! We might have a fishing season. But most importantly we want all our Cordova friends to live for another day, another month, another time—when we can all be together.

I’m looking forward to this year’s Holy Week as we from a distance–pray together, sing together, and wait anxiously in the Christian tradition for word on Easter morning that “Jesus is alive, He is risen!” It’s a sign for all of us in all of our traditions to start a new life, a new beginning—that leads to hope, prayer, peace and love singing in our hearts—and in the world!

Join us at St. George’s Episcopal—for prayer, for singing, and for Holy Week services and activities over the internet.

Good Friday Service April 10 7 pm
Songs, Prayers and Reading of the Passion Story

Join Zoom Good Friday Service

https://zoom.us/j/219632202

Meeting ID: 219 632 202

Easter Sunday April 12 10:30 am
Easter Music, Morning Prayer, and Sermon by the Rev. Belle Mickelson
Sharing afterwards of Easter Art, Eggs, Stories, Dress, and Food—all virtually!

So this is the link for Easter Service https://zoom.us/j/427807416

Meeting ID: 427 807 416

The Rev. Belle Mickelson is the priest at St. George’s Episcopal www.cordovaepiscopal.org and www.reddragoncordova.org

and director of Dancing with the Spirit, a program to teach guitar and fiddle in the villages. www.dancingwiththespirit.org

Message to St. George’s from Rev. Trimble Gilbert

This week (April 2, 2020) we at St. George’s and all of Cordova received a wonderful gift–an audio recording–a message of encouragement with stories, prayers, and blessings from the Rev. Dr. Trimble Gilbert from Arctic Village. Trimble is 84 years young and lives with his wife Mary in the land where he grew up. Hunting and fishing, spending time with his family, traveling by dog team–was his schooling. His dad was an Episcopal priest, too. Trimble plays fiddle and guitar and he and his wife still speak their first language–Gwich’in. I hope you will be able to gather this week with your household family and take time to listen to this 49 minute recording of wisdom from the land–recorded by Dustin Solberg and his son Peter.
Here’s a picture of the Rev. Dr. Trimble Gilbert and two musician friends at St. Stephen’s Church in Fort Yukon.

Trimble and Young Musicians

April 2, 2020 – Wear Blue… Pandemic Poem

Wear Blue Tomorrow; Arctic Village; Palm Sunday; Virtual Yoga; Pandemic Poem

Dear friends,
I’m so proud of how everyone is practicing social distancing and following the health mandates to keep everyone safe. And there are some blessings. We are learning how to use Zoom, email, phone, and Facebook to still keep in touch. Younger friends are grocery shopping and running errands for elders. And with almost all of us slowing down–we have more time for the beautiful outdoors, calling our friends, family time, prayer–and helping others Check out the Pandemic Poem a little later in this newsletter.

This week we at St. George’s and all of Cordova received a wonderful gift–an audio recording–a message of encouragement with stories, prayers, and blessings from the Rev. Dr. Trimble Gilbert from Arctic Village. Trimble is 84 years young and lives with his wife Mary in the land where he grew up. Hunting and fishing, spending time with his family, traveling by dog team–was his schooling. His dad was an Episcopal priest, too. Trimble plays fiddle and guitar and he and his wife still speak their first language–Gwich’in. I hope you will be able to gather this week with your household family and take time to listen to this 49 minute recording of wisdom from the land–recorded by Dustin Solberg and his son Peter.
Here’s a picture of the Rev. Dr. Trimble Gilbert and two musician friends at St. Stephen’s Church in Fort Yukon.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and on Friday April 3 there is a virtual rally to Wear Blue to highlight the issue (poster attached). With the Pandemic going on, people are under enormous pressure, so it’s good to highlight this issue. Everyone has the opportunity to have a positive impact on a child’s life. Check out this website for more ideas on how you can help our precious children, https://www.alaskachildrenstrust.org/child-abuse-prevention-month

WAYS TO HELP YOUR FELLOW CORDOVANS

Note from Sandie Ponte: We are trying to supply Sunset View tenants with at least two dinners a week. If anyone would like to contribute we are looking for donations of food. Enough to feed 20. This could be raw ingredients that we cook and deliver, or meals. Please pm me if you are interested in helping out. These are vulnerable people that really don’t need to be out in the community. Thank you for your help. Message her on Facebook.

Expect more opportunities to help our fellow Cordovans! There are two Facebook groups Cordova Neighborhood Watch and Cordova Prepared that will hopefully be coming up with ways to love our neighbors.

FOOD DRIVE!

Help Cordovans in need by donating your canned goods, non-perishable and frozen items! The Native Village of Eyak (424-7738) is a food pantry for the Food Bank of Alaska. Call them in the case of food emergencies. AND THE SALVATION ARMY has reopened their food bank on their Main Street building and they can use food. Call Pastor Steve at 429-6262.

FILL OUT YOUR CENSUS FORM on line https://www.2020census.gov

WEEKLY NEWS BRIEFINGS: Moving forward the City of Cordova’s COVID-19 Incident Management Team will be hosting live-streamed Press Briefings each Friday at 4:00pm which will be streamed live and available in the archive afterward at youtube.com/c/cityofcordovaalaska

Please consult these resources for information:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – coronavirus.gov

State of Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) – coronavirus.alaska.gov

Dial 211 – The State of Alaska information line for non-clinical questions

City of Cordova – cityofcordova.net

Cordova Prepared is the comprehensive source for answers to any questions you have. Please do not call CCMC or the Clinic with COVID questions unless related directly to your health. We do not want to take time away from the cordovaprepared@yahoo.com which goes directly to the City’s Public Information and Incident Management Teams.

Let’s do our part and practice the CDC guidance to keep Cordova free of COVID-19 for as long as possible. Please take every precaution to care for yourself and loved ones. Updates will be posted regularly on the Cordova Prepared page of the City of Cordova Website and Facebook.com/groups/cordovaprepared/. General local questions can be directed to cordovaprepared@yahoo.com.

ENCLOSED ARE THE WAYS OUR CHURCHES ARE ADJUSTING TO THIS CRISIS.

THIS is PALM SUNDAY April 5 at St. George’s—we will be meeting at 10:30 am on line via Zoom You can call in early and wait for the meeting to start. Zoom’s really pretty fun. We’ll have singing, a little something for kids, and be studying Matthew 21:1-11 about Jesus’s arrival in Jerusalem to the shouts of Hosanna! Pick some willow branches this week and we will be “parading” and waving them across the airways!

DIRECTIONS. Go to the following website.…and download the free app and then type in the meeting ID.

So this is the link to our meeting https://zoom.us/j/427807416

Meeting ID: 427 807 416

One tap mobile phone numbers

+13462487799,,788514994# US (Houston)

+16699006833,,788514994# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

+1 253 215 8782 US

+1 301 715 8592 US

US Toll Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/adpzsM2SOs

During this time St. George’s will have services on line on Zoom—instead of church in our building or on our grounds. Our address is Box 849, Cordova, Alaska 99574 if you want to make a donation. Check out our webpages at www.cordovaepiscopal.org or www.reddragoncordova.org We also have a village music program www.dancingwiththespirit.org Over the last two years we have spent 70 weeks teaching music in village schools.

Please pray for all those suffering from the corona virus and healing for them, for the doctors and nurses and medical and emergency personnel–and for Robbie Glasen who had open heart surgery, Sharin Leppert, Mark, Marvin Thurman, Heidi, Hannah, Ampy’s sister—and all their families and friends.

I had good news from my brother George this week that the chemo and your prayers are working! The doctor said that the cancer cells in his body are now in the normal range… He still has another month of chemo—but I’m so grateful that he is getting better!! Thanks again and keep praying!

Send condolence cards for Alfredo Hernandez’s family to Rita Hernandez, P.O. Box 686, Cordova, Alaska 99574. And send cards to Deb Ethier and her husband Chip on the death of her mom ”Honey”at Box 2304, Cordova, Alaska 99574 And to Ampy Benninger for the death of her niece Ruby. Ampy’s address is Box 1178, Cordova, Alaska 99574

ST. JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC CHURCH is open daily for private prayer—but there are no masses or meetings. Mass on Sunday is at 10 am on Facebook Live. Father Michael will be saying a private mass every day for Cordova and the world—and is available for prayers and confessions. Plus Father Michael is doing a church service on Facebook Live at 5:30 pm every day. Call him at 424-3637

THE CORDOVA COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH is meeting not in person—but streaming their church services on Facebook Live. Call or text Pastor Mike Glover for more info Email: pastor@cordovabaptist.church Call or Text: (352)318-2906 He is also doing daily video devotionals.

THE CORDOVA CHURCH of the NAZARENE is going to Facebook Live services and meetings—with no in person meetings. Call or text Pastor Steve Leppert at 429-6262. Sunday service is at 11 am; Sunday night Jr. high gathering 7 pm; Wednesday night Prayers 7 pm; Thursday night Bible Study 7 pm. Plus Pastor Steve is posting daily devotionals on Facebook.

THE LITTLE CHAPEL has gone to all on-line services. Contact Pastor Brandyn Dyer for more information at 907-370-3019.

THE MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH is holding services on Facebook Live. Contact Pastor Leslie at 864-607-8519.

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST of LATTER DAY SAINTS has cancelled all services and meetings and is urging families to gather at home for worship and bible study.

Prayer for a Pandemic

By Cameron Bellm

May we who are merely inconvenienced

Remember those whose lives are at stake.

May we who have no risk factors

Remember those most vulnerable.

May we who have the luxury of working from home

Remember those who must choose between preserving their health or making their rent.

May we who have the flexibility to care for our children when their schools close

Remember those who have no options.

May we who have to cancel our trips

Remember those that have no safe place to go.

May we who are losing our margin money in the tumult of the economic market

Remember those who have no margin at all.

May we who settle in for a quarantine at home

Remember those who have no home.

As fear grips our country,

let us choose love.

During this time when we cannot physically wrap our arms around each other,

Let us yet find ways to be the loving embrace of God to our neighbors.

Amen.

SIGN UP WITH YOUR FRIENDS (Teams of 5) TO WALK for health and prizes. The Walking Competition ends April 11t. Count your steps. Get out and exercise!! Call Victoria or Jessica at Ilanka Clinic at 424-3622 for more details. The Health Fair was cancelled—but we can still walk!!

Many Local Businesses are closed—but are taking phone and on line orders. This includes the Net Loft, Copper River Fleece, Cordova Gear, the Powderhouse (carry out).

THE NETLOFT has a virtual handcrafting gathering at Wednesday at noon. Follow the link us04web.zoom.us/j/342228580, Meeting ID 342 228 580 and sign in on Zoom to join from your computer or phone. For questions call Amy at 907-988-8000

CURRENT RHYTHMS DANCE has virtual YOGA CLASSES. . Call Alyssa at 424-3632 for more info. Their website is http://www.currentrhythms.com

CORDOVA GEAR SALE. Phone and Online Orders for pickup accepted. Operating hours 11 am to 6 pm Mon., Wed., and Sat. No walk in traffic—but you can still rent or buy bikes using social distancing. Don’t slip, get studded footwear – Icebugs are on sale now! Need a bike repaired? Drop off bikes on Saturdays. We have studded fat bikes ready to rent for fun winter rides! Looking to purchase an electric bike? Taking orders for Spring bike delivery now. We are excited to announce that Lee Collins has joined our crew at Cordova Gear! 424.5590 http://www.cordovagear.com

There will be a CORDOVA FARM this summer…sign up for weekly veggies! The farm (Kale’n Thyme) run by Kristy Andrew should be operational this Spring! The web site is kalenthyme.com They will be selling a variety of leafy greens and herbs. Locally grown and fresh!

DIRECT SERVICE PROVIDERS NEEDED to work with kids with disabilities on a one on one basis. Sound Alternatives is hiring. Call Barb Jewell 424-8249

Join a worldwide effort in this health crisis to pray for healing, peace, love, joy—and give to your favorite charities to help supply food, housing, jobs and health care to those who need them. Make personal choices to help with our climate crisis, too. One organization I really like is Episcopal Relief and Development https://www.episcopalrelief.org

MORNING MUSIC is working on a distance delivery plan for our wonderful kids. Contact Kim Menster 253-5223 or Belle Mickelson 424-5143 for more info.

Acupuncture & Wellness of Cordova is open year round to help with injury recovery and mental emotional support. Let us help you feel your best. 429-7797 or http://www.acucdv.com

ILANKA COMMUNITY WELLNESS & RECOVERY SUPPORT CIRCLE MEETINGS are SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

Are you or someone you know interested in breaking free from alcohol or substance use or abuse? This session is culturally appropriate and connects you with others with similar struggles. It’s for those who want to learn to grow and develop skills for breaking free and learning to live free from substances in a safe environment. Call John at 424-3622 for more information.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY, a Christian program to overcome alcohol/drug or any other addictions or problems—IS NO LONGER MEETING. Call Alan Roemhilt 429-7667 or Amber Wasson 907-440-7347 for more info.

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are on hold…

AL-ANON for friends and families of alcoholics (and drug addicts). Meetings are temporarily postponed. Call Amber 907-440-7347 for more info.

TEMPORARILY CANCELLED BECAUSE OF THE CORONA VIRUS–the TUESDAY GOSPEL SING ALONG for Hospital Residents and Staff from 4-5 pm. We are hoping for a distance delivery option.

WEDNESDAY 7 PM COMMUNITY PRAYER TIME! Set your alarm….and wherever you are stop for a minute or more and send your prayers to help friends and families–and everyone here and around the world through this crisis. Pray for love, joy, peace–and joining together so that everyone can feel safe and loved with adequate food, housing, meaningful work, and a sense of belonging and working together for the common good…

Recycle your Fishing Web

Fishing web can be dropped off at the Cordova City Baler in the fishing web recycling container. Please remove any non-nylon material (remove cork and lead line).

TO JOIN THE Recycling Action TEAM Call Shae Bowman 424-3334 or email shae@copperriver.org

THE CITY RECYCLES PAPER/CARDBOARD, ALUMINUM CANS, AND GLASS at the lot behind AC.

LEAD ACID BATTERY RECYCLING behind NVE building. Small batteries can be recycled at the PO–along with aluminum cans.

ILANKA Health Center offers 2 free appointments for those ready to do something about their addictions to drugs and/or alcohol. Call 424-3622.

ALSO A REMINDER THAT IT’S TIME TO RENEW MEDIVAC INSURANCE--$125 for a household. https://airmedcarenetwork.com or call 877-335-0274

Bryan Mills can fix your computer! Call the CDV Tech Guy at 424-3456 or http://www.cdvtechguy.com

The City of Cordova has an email newsletter, The CORDOVA CONVERSATION. The Conversation is published every Monday, and is designed to be a short, informative digest of issues relevant to most Cordovans. To sign up for this free publication, simply go to the city’s home page at http://www.cityofcordova.net, scroll down to the “Bulletin Board” and click on the “Stay up on News from City Hall.” That will take you to the sign- up sheet.

Love and blessings,

Belle

424-5143 home

907-388-3347 cell

March 28, 2020

ear Cordova Friends,

I’ve sure been enjoying this gorgeous weather—and getting out every day for walks and yesterday a bike ride! My friend Ginger Dale across the street got me and her beloved dog Buddy out on a walk this morning at Hartney Bay. Of course, we took separate cars in this time of physical distancing—but we still had a little time to share the beauty of springtime (see the enclosed photos). It was low tide–and very quiet—but I know the birds and the salmon are coming back. That’s so comforting… And I am noticing that I am even more grateful for all my friends like you!

This week we made the difficult decision to postpone this summer’s Cordova 4H Music Camp until 2021. Everyone is feeling the need to focus on their families—both in teaching their own kids and working from home—plus helping Cordova pull off a good fishing season. So I’ve enclosed a photo of our 2018 camp. We’ve been doing camps for 25 years—and I’m sure we will continue on after a summer off… Plus we’re working on lots of distance delivery options to keep the music going! It’s helpful to think of this time at home as a “retreat,” a time to slow down and find what in our lives brings us the most happiness—and how we can help others–and spread love to our families, friends, and people all over the world.

WAYS TO HELP YOUR FELLOW CORDOVANS

Expect more opportunities to help our fellow Cordovans! There are two Facebook groups Cordova Neighborhood Watch and Cordova Prepared that will hopefully be coming up with ways to love our neighbors.

FOOD DRIVE!

BE SURE to fill out your PFD application by March 31.

FILL OUT YOUR CENSUS FORM on line https://www.2020census.gov

WEEKLY NEWS BRIEFINGS: Moving forward the City of Cordova’s COVID-19 Incident Management Team will be hosting live-streamed Press Briefings each Friday at 4:00pm which will be streamed live and available in the archive afterward at youtube.com/c/cityofcordovaalaska Please consult these resources for information: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – coronavirus.gov

State of Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) – coronavirus.alaska.gov

Dial 211 – The State of Alaska information line for non-clinical questions

City of Cordova – cityofcordova.net

Cordova Prepared is the comprehensive source for answers to any questions you have. Please do not call CCMC or the Clinic with COVID questions unless related directly to your health. We do not want to take time away from the

cordovaprepared@yahoo.com which goes directly to the City’s Public Information and Incident Management Teams.

ENCLOSED ARE THE WAYS OUR CHURCHES ARE AJUSTING TO THIS CRISIS.

THIS SUNDAY March 29 at St. George’s—we will be meeting at 10:30 am on line via Zoom You can call in early and wait for the meeting to start. Zoom’s really pretty fun. We’ll have singing, a little something for kids, and be studying John 11:1-45 about how Lazarus came back to life.

DIRECTIONS. Go to the following website.…and download the free app and then type in the meeting ID.

So this is the link to our meeting https://zoom.us/j/427807416

Meeting ID: 427 807 416

One tap mobile phone numbers

+13462487799,,788514994# US (Houston)

+16699006833,,788514994# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

+1 253 215 8782 US

+1 301 715 8592 US

Meeting ID: 788 514 994

US Toll Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/adpzsM2SOs

During this time St. George’s will have services on line on Zoom—instead of church in our building or on our grounds. Check out our webpages at http://www.cordovaepiscopal.org or http://www.reddragoncordova.org We also have a village music program http://www.dancingwiththespirit.org Over the last two years we have spent 70 weeks teaching music in village schools.

Please pray for all those suffering from the corona virus and healing for them, for the doctors and nurses and medical and emergency personnel–and for Robbie Glasen who had open heart surgery last week, Sharin Leppert, George Heffner, Mark, Marvin Thurman, Heidi, Hannah, Ampy’s sister—and all their families and friends.

Send condolence cards to Alfredo Hernandez’s family to Rita Hernandez, P.O. Box 686, Cordova, Alaska 99574. And send cards to Deb Ethier and her husband Chip on the death of her mom ”Honey”at Box 2304, Cordova, Alaska 99574

ST. JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC CHURCH is open daily for private prayer—but there are no masses or meetings. Father Michael will be saying a private mass every day for Cordova and the world—and is available for prayers and confessions. Plus Father Michael is doing a church service on Facebook Live at 5:30 pm every day. Call him at 424-3637

THE CORDOVA COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH is meeting not in person—but on line. Call or text Pastor Mike Glover for more info Email: pastor@cordovabaptist.church Call or Text: (352)318-2906 He is also doing daily video devotionals.

THE CORDOVA CHURCH of the NAZARENE is going to Facebook Live services and meetings—with no in person meetings. Call or text Pastor Steve Leppert at 429-6262. Sunday service is at 11 am; Sunday night Jr. high gathering 7 pm; Tuesday night Bible Study 7 pm; Wednesday night Prayers 7 pm.

THE LITTLE CHAPEL has gone to all on-line services. Contact Pastor Brandyn Dyer for more information at 907-370-3019.

THE MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH is continuing in person services as long as people come. Contact Pastor Leslie at 864-607-8519.

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST of LATTER DAY SAINTS has cancelled all services and meetings and is urging families to gather at home for worship and bible study.

SIGN UP WITH YOUR FRIENDS TO WALK for health and prizes for the April 11th HEALTH FAIR. Count your steps. Get out and exercise!! Call Victoria at Ilanka Clinic at 424-3622 for more details. The Health Fair may be cancelled—but we can still walk!!

Many Local Businesses are closed—but are taking phone and on line orders. This includes the Net Loft, Copper River Fleece, Cordova Gear, the Powderhouse (carry out).

THE NETLOFT has a virtual handcrafting gathering at Wednesday at noon.

Follow the link us04web.zoom.us/j/342228580, Meeting ID 342 228 580 and sign in on Zoom to join from your computer or phone. For questions call Amy at 907-988-8000

CORDOVA GEAR SALE. Phone and Online Orders for pickup accepted. Operating hours 11 am to 6 pm Mon., Wed., and Sat. No walk in traffic—but you can still rent or buy bikes using social distancing. Don’t slip, get studded footwear – Icebugs are on sale now! Need a bike repaired? Drop off bikes on Saturdays. We have studded fat bikes ready to rent for fun winter rides! Looking to purchase an electric bike? Taking orders for Spring bike delivery now. We are excited to announce that Lee Collins has joined our crew at Cordova Gear! 424.5590 http://www.cordovagear.com

There will be a CORDOVA FARM this summer…sign up for weekly veggies! The farm (Kale’n Thyme) run by Kristy Andrew should be operational this Spring! The web site is kalenthyme.com They will be selling a variety of leafy greens and herbs. Locally grown and fresh!

DIRECT SERVICE PROVIDERS NEEDED to work with kids with disabilities on a one on one basis. Sound Alternatives is hiring. Call Barb Jewell 424-8249

Join a worldwide effort in this crisis to pray for healing, peace, love, joy—and give to your favorite charities to help supply food, housing, jobs and health care to those who need them. Make personal choices to help with our climate crisis. One organization I really like is Episcopal Relief and Development https://www.episcopalrelief.org

MORNING MUSIC is working on a distance delivery plan for our wonderful kids.

Contact Kim Menster 253-5223 or Belle Mickelson 424-5143 for more info.

Acupuncture & Wellness of Cordova is open year round to help with injury recovery and mental emotional support. Let us help you feel your best. 429-7797 or http://www.acucdv.com

Check out CURRENT RHYTHMS DANCE and YOGA CLASSES. THEY ARE CELEBRATING 21 YEARS OF TEACHING DANCE IN CORDOVA! Classes at their studio are on hold—but contact Alyssa for on line options. Call 424-3632 for more info. Their website is http://www.currentrhythms.com

ILANKA COMMUNITY WELLNESS & RECOVERY SUPPORT CIRCLE

MEETINGS are SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY, a Christian program to overcome alcohol/drug or any other addictions or problems—IS NOT LONGER MEETING. Call Alan Roemhilt 429-7667 or Amber Wasson 907-440-7347 for more info.

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are on hold…

AL-ANON for friends and families of alcoholics (and drug addicts). Meetings are temporarily postponed. Call Amber 907-440-7347 for more info.

TEMPORARILY CANCELLED BECAUSE OF THE CORONA VIRUS–the TUESDAY GOSPEL SING ALONG for Hospital Residents and Staff from 4-5 pm. We are hoping for a distance delivery option.

WEDNESDAY 7 PM COMMUNITY PRAYER TIME! Set your alarm….and wherever you are stop for a minute or more and send your prayers to help friends and families–and everyone here and around the world through this crisis. Pray for love, joy, peace–and joining together so that everyone can feel safe and loved with adequate food, housing, meaningful work, and a sense of belonging and working together for the common good…

Recycle your Fishing Web

Fishing web can be dropped off at the Cordova City Baler in the fishing web recycling container. Please remove any non-nylon material (remove cork and lead line).

TO JOIN THE Recycling Action TEAM Call Shae Bowman 424-3334 or email shae@copperriver.org

THE CITY RECYCLES PAPER/CARDBOARD, ALUMINUM CANS, AND GLASS at the lot behind AC.

LEAD ACID BATTERY RECYCLING behind NVE building. Small batteries can be recycled at the PO–along with aluminum cans.

ILANKA Health Center offers 2 free appointments for those ready to do something about their addictions to drugs and/or alcohol. Call 424-3622.

ALSO A REMINDER THAT IT’S TIME TO RENEW MEDIVAC INSURANCE–$125 for a household. https://airmedcarenetwork.com or call 877-335-0274

Bryan Mills can fix your computer! Call the CDV Tech Guy at 424-3456 or http://www.cdvtechguy.com

Love and blessings,

Belle

424-5143 home

907-388-3347 cell

Bishop’s Pastoral Letter, March 13, 2020

The Episcopal Diocese of Alaska
_____
1205 Denali Way ● Fairbanks, AK 99701-4137 ● Telephone (907)452-3040 ● Fax (907)456-6552 ● alaskcopalians@gci.net

A Pastoral Letter to the Diocese of Alaska from Bishop Lattime
March 13, 2020

My Beloved in Christ,
Times of crisis seem to change once solid ground into sinking sand under our feet. Where we once felt secure and certain, a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic throws the whole world into turmoil. How are we to respond? What are we to do? How do I protect myself and my family? And how do I help my community? The way forward becomes unclear.

In times of crisis, it is important to remember the gift of our faith and the fact that even in the swift and changing landscape that surrounds us, we are standing on solid ground when we stand with Our Lord. Psalm 23 reminds us that even when we walk in the valley of shadows, we shall fear no evil for God is with us.

These are shadow times, and God is with us.
In a crisis, in the face of human frailty, on the thresholds of suffering and fear, it is even more important for the church to be who it is called to be: the Body of Christ. As the Body of Christ, we are called to be present and supportive of one another in the darkness; but crisis can quickly convert us from a beloved community that supports one another, to a scattered flock running in fear. Now more than ever, we should strive towards our higher calling to abide in Christ, to abide together, and to reach out in love to those who are sitting and suffering in darkness.

As the information about COVID-19 evolves, I remain convinced that our ministry and response must conform to accurate scientific and medical data. Therefore, though we stand on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ and His love and we remain committed to the ministry of neighborly love that He calls us to engage, the realities of COVID-19 require us to be adaptive and responsive in how we care for both the spiritual and physical health of our communities.

Now we are seeing public institutions, colleges, schools, sporting events, and other public gatherings canceled. I learned just yesterday that the University of Alaska has extended spring break and shifted to an on-line only format until the end of March. Some institutions and municipalities have suggested canceling any non-essential gatherings greater than a certain number. The numbers, however, are inconsistent—some places greater than 250 individuals, other places the limit is 25.

Perhaps more significant, some of my colleague bishops in the Episcopal Church have directed that congregations suspend public worship in their dioceses. The Presiding Bishop issued a statement offering pastoral support of those bishops who choose to direct a “fast from public worship” in this season (the PB lacks the authority to direct the suspension of worship in any diocese). There is no consistency in the Episcopal Church, however, on the matter of suspending public worship; larger dioceses (NY, Long Island, Los Angeles, San Diego, e.g.) have not suspended public worship, while much smaller dioceses have.

Given the extraordinary variety of communities and congregations in the Diocese of Alaska, I am not directing congregations in the Diocese of Alaska to suspend public worship.

Recognizing the essential need that many have to gather in worship within their community of faith—especially in times of crisis and great worry, and for whom online or virtual worship is not available, I am supporting the decisions that our individual communities make with respect to public worship. Some congregations may discern that the risks to the most vulnerable are too great and will make the difficult choice to suspend their gatherings. Others may decide to suspend Holy Communion and offer Morning Prayer as an alternative. For many of our congregations, Morning Prayer is the standard for public worship anyway. Given the vast differences in resources, parish size, and community pastoral needs, I am affirming that our communities have the freedom they need to choose how best to adapt their public worship needs. At the same time, I urge all our congregations to make provisions for the on-going spiritual needs and Christian life of their people. We cannot suspend our ministry of neighborly love, prayer, and worship even if we suspend our usual ways of gathering. Here I am grateful for the creativity of our people and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

For those communities that will continue to offer Public Worship, I insist that every precaution be made to mitigate risk of transmission. Our goal is to “flatten the curve” of transmission. This means to spread out the inevitable number of cases of infection over a longer period. While much remains unknown about COVID-19, and we are learning more every day, it has been established that a few best practices will greatly reduce the risk of transmission, namely: diligent hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing the Doxology); complete avoidance of touching your face, eyes, and mouth; maintaining a distance of 6 feet from individuals not in your household; self-quarantine of “at risk” individuals and those 65 years or older; and self-isolation if you are feeling sick. Further, I have urged the clergy to begin taking their temperature every morning (mine was 98.4 today). If you are feeling sick, or if your temperature is 99.5 or higher, you should isolate yourself.

With respect to Holy Communion, in those parishes that will continue to offer Holy Communion, it has been established over 2,000 years of practice that receiving the sacrament—including the Common Cup presents a very low risk of disease transmission. Nevertheless, I assure all the faithful that the benefits of Holy Communion are fully received if Communion is received by Bread alone. Moreover, the benefits of Holy Communion are also received if a person comes forward in faith desiring Communion but for reason of health or infirmity is unable to receive either the bread or the wine (“at risk” is a worthy health reason).
In communities that continue to offer public worship, these precautions shall be followed.

Even in congregations that continue to offer public worship, nonessential meetings or gatherings should be canceled or postponed. However, please give very careful consideration before closing your doors to meetings like AA or NA. These are essential public gatherings.
Finally, we do well to remember that one of Jesus’ messages was “FEAR NOT.” Faith, hope, and prayer are gifts that we can share to help deal with fear–let us NOT contribute to the anxiety that is growing.

And let our love of neighbor keep all things in perspective.
This past week, as the stock market was diving and the news cycle continued to spin stories of further quarantines—even entire countries, growing numbers of cases of COVID-19, cancelations of professional sporting events—even March Madness, someone near to me said: “this must be the end of days.”

That comment was made in jest; but it brings to light a reality that we might do well to consider. I am certain that to a poor young mother who lives with the daily worry that her child will contract malaria, ebola, tuberculosis or die from dehydration from a waterborne disease; who lives on less than a dollar a day; and may even be searching daily for political safety and refuge from violence and war; I’m sure that young mother does NOT see a drop in the stock market, quarantined cruise ships or countries, the cancelation of professional sporting events, and the threat of a pandemic with a 2-3% fatality as the “End of Days.” For her it was just another day.

Pray for courage, pray for healing, wash your hands, remember we are in this together, love your neighbor as yourself.
In the Hope, Way, and Life of Jesus Christ,
(The Rt. Rev.) Mark Lattime
8th Bishop of Alaska

March 14, 2020

Hi everyone…

I hope you are doing well and enjoying this beautiful weather… It’s so important for us to stay healthy, eat well, get exercise, take walks outside, stay in touch with friends, check on elders–and pray lots!

Due to this health crisis and the need for social distancing, we are not having a formal service or Godly Play tomorrow–but will have the church open from 10 am to 7 pm and the heat on for prayer and meditation. Our lectionary sheets will be available for studying the Bible readings and there will be copies of my sermon (which I’ll email later). I’m reminded of one of the best sermons I ever heard which was during snowpocalpse when as the only person at church–I just sat and listened.

I’m so missing church and gathering together–but am grateful for the many times we have been together–and am looking forward to many great times in the future. I’ve included some pictures of last summer’s Vacation Bible School which is scheduled for July 4-11 this year.

I hope we will all find new ways to connect with God and deepen our faith as we pray and meditate by ourselves and with our families, tell stories, enjoy the beauty of God’s creation, watch movies, check out books (including the Bible!) and view church resources on the web. God is always looking for us–so look forward to some wonderful surprises in the coming weeks.. Here are some on line options for church tomorrow.

7:15 am Alaska time, our Presiding Bishop Michael Curry will be preaching at an on-line service at the National Cathedral and Dean Hollerith will be presiding https://www.cathederal.org There is also an excellent perspective on this crisis in a short video by Dean Hollerith–and lots of sermons from the past weeks and years. The Presiding Bishop’s service will be posted later for those who are not up so early!

9 am Alaska time, Live Stream Service from St. Gregory of Nyssa Episcopal Church’s Facebook page St. Gregory’s is in San Francisco and usually has a wonderful dance tradition as part of their service–though this one will be streamed with only the church leaders

10 am Alaska time, Live Stream from Anchorage’s St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Facebook page

There are also resources on the National Episcopal Church Web Page apps://www.episcopalchurch.org

For children, check out the Godly Play Foundation https://www.godlyplay.org and many Godly Play lessons on Utube.

My favorite recent Facebook post was by Cordovan Bryan Mills:
After watching Evie run up and hug three different friends in ten minutes.

Me: “Hey, kiddo… so you might begin hearing doctors talking about a concept called ‘social distancing,’ and I think maybe it’s a good idea to—“

Evie: “Whoa whoa whoa I don’t like the sound of that.”

Me: “What do you mean?”

Evie: “Well, social means being together. And distancing means staying apart. That doesn’t work for me.”

This poor kiddo is going to have a rough few weeks I think.

St. Gregory’s had some good information on talking to kids about the Corona Virus. There are so many resources out there about what to do in the pandemic – everything from hand washing to how to navigate an airport. One thing that may be helpful are resources for talking to younger people about COVID-19 and the novel coronavirus outbreak. Here are a few:

Information from the Center for Disease Control about helping children cope with a crisis .

Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus: Kids worry more when they’re kept in the dark .

How to have a panic-free conversation with your kids about the coronavirus.

Just For Kids: A Comic Exploring The New Coronavirus .

PRAYERS ARE NEEDED for those who have the Corona Virus and other diseases, their caretakers and doctors and nurses and hospital workers–plus those whose jobs are impacted, and people, especially children, whose food and housing needs are stressed. And on the St. George’s list, please pray for healing for George Heffner, Mark, Marvin Thurman, Heidi, Hannah, Alfredo, Ampy’s sister, Samuel Luke, Patrick Ward—and all their families and friends. And also for me. I did manage to get some form of respiratory illness–but as always, I’m available for prayers by phone. Headed out now for a little walk. That sunshine is wonderful!

I’VE ALSO INCLUDED THE BISHOP’S PASTORAL LETTER on this topic…

Much love and many blessings,

Belle
424-5143 home
907-388-3347 cell

Visit with Rev. Trimble Gilbert

Enjoy this virtual Coffee Break with the Rev. Trimble Gilbert who is from Arctic Village, in northern Alaska. The Rev. Gilbert is a good friend of our Rev. Belle Mickelson and shares his wisdom in this virtual interview, through a You Tube connection:

Virtual Coffee Break with Rev. Trimble Gilbert

Thanks to the First Alaskans Institute for making and posting this recording, from March 18, 2020.

Earth Day & other news

May 3, 2018 –

Hi everyone!

I’m in the airport waiting for the plane to Fort Yukon…

I’m resending our wonderful EARTH DAY Church Service, Walk, and Rally last weekend because it bounced back on many of your emails! Check out the article I wrote for the Cordova Times attached below along with some great pictures taken by Chelsea Haisman or go on line and see the article and pictures http://www.thecordovatimes.com “Cordovans Rally for Earth Day”

SHOREBIRD FESTIVAL IS THIS WEEKEND! Look forward to a lot of great events

5:30-8 pm 4H SEAFOOD LASAGNA DINNER at the Elementary School

10:30 am is the St. George’s Sunday May 6th Morning Prayer Service. There will be Godly Play for the children with Dustin Solberg and/or Christina Vican as leaders. Musicians come early at 10 am to practice.

Check out our web pages at http://www.cordovaepiscopal.org and http://www.reddragoncordova.org We also have a village music ministry–and we’ve now have been to 47 villages!! www.dancingwiththespirit.org

RAFFLE ITEMS NEEDED for the St. Georgian Year of the Roof! Kris Kokborg is donating a quilt–and we need more items to put a new roof on our church–for a summertime raffle…. We had a great turnout for last week’s rummage sale! Thank you everyone!!

Thanks for your prayers for Carl Allen, Jr. who is struggling with cancer and for Neva’s mother Bonnie and for Deb’s Papa who came through his surgery and is doing much better! God is good!

Need help with your WOODPILE–GETTING OR STACKING WOOD?

Call Jonathan Morehouse 424-7470.

YOUTH GROUP HAS CHANGED TO THURSDAY NIGHTS from 5:30-7 pm at the Red Dragon… The leaders are Matt and Kristel Rush. Call Matt Rush at 423-284-3347 for info–or if you can provide dinner any week.

MONDAYS is a MOMS, POPS, AND TOTS PLAY GROUP meeting at the Masonic from 10 am to noon during the school year. Explore developmental issues while playing with your kids. Call Katie Goodale 424-2232 or Cheryl Eleshansky 424-2238 for more info.

On Tuesdays, we’ve started a Gospel SING ALONG for Hospital Residents and Staff from 4-5 pm. Come and sing with us. Bring your instruments if you would like to…

WEDNESDAY 7 PM COMMUNITY PRAYER TIME! Set your alarm….and wherever you are stop for a minute or more and send your prayers to help friends and families–and everyone here and around the world. Pray for love, joy, peace–and joining together so that everyone can feel safe and loved with adequate food, housing, meaningful work, and a sense of belonging and working together for the common good…

DEVOTIONS 7 pm Wednesday nights at 7 pm at St. George’s. Come and sit quietly by candlelight for 20 minutes and then share… .

HOMEPORT is open on Sat. nights from 7-10 pm with great cups of coffee, desserts, free wi-fi, board games!! Enter at the side door below the Cordova Community Baptist Church.

AL-ANON is returning to Cordova! It’s for friends and families of alcoholics. Meetings are Monday nights at 7 pm at the Wellness Center (old DMV office). For more info, contact Katie at 907-965-5909.

FOOD DRIVE!

Help Cordovans in need by donating your canned goods, non-perishable and frozen items!

Drop food off at the Little Chapel’s upstairs entrance on Lake Avenue or at the Native Village of Eyak’s office in the New Harbor.

The Native Village of Eyak (424-7738) is a food pantry for the Food Bank of Alaska and the Little Chapel (424-3629) is part of the Salvation Army Extension Service with food available from 10 am-2 pm the 2nd and 4th Saturdays. Call them in the case of food emergencies between those times. .

Recycle your Fishing Web

Fishing web can be dropped off at the Cordova City Baler in the fishing web recycling container.

Please remove any non-nylon material (remove cork and lead line).

TO JOIN THE Recycling Action TEAM Call Shae Bowman 424-3334 or email shae@copperriver.org

THE CITY RECYCLES PAPER/CARDBOARD, ALUMINUM CANS, AND GLASS at the lot behind AC.

LEAD ACID BATTERY RECYCLING behind NVE building. Small batteries can be recycled at the PO–along with aluminum cans.

ILANKA Health Center offers 2 free appointments for those ready to do something about their addictions to drugs and/or alcohol. Call 424-3622.

ALSO A REMINDER THAT IT’S TIME TO RENEW MEDIVAC INSURANCE–$125 for a household. http://www.apollomt.com or call 888-457-1711

GET IN SHAPE at Bidarki, our saltwater pool (now open at 7 am Tues. and Thurs. for lap swim or exercise–and 8 am MWF) or at the Masonic Temple weight room which is open 24 hours (check out the key from the police department). Bidarki also has longer hours for those with passes.

There are some Tai Chi classes on Tues., Thurs, and Sat. at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall from 1 to 1:30 pm.

CURRENT RHYTHMS teaches Yoga and Dance Classes. THEY ARE CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF TEACHING DANCE IN CORDOVA! Call 424-3632 to sign up for classes–or just come!

Bryan and Bree Mills have adopted a little girl!! And Bryan is offering his services as a computer expert in return for donations to help with their adoption costs… Email Bryan at <bryanmills84@gmail.com>

The City of Cordova has an email newsletter, The CORDOVA CONVERSATION. The Conversation is published every Monday, and is designed to be a short, informative digest of issues relevant to most Cordovans. To sign up for this free publication, simply go to the city’s home page at www.cityofcordova.net, scroll down to the “Bulletin Board” and click on the “Stay up on News from City Hall.” That will take you to the sign- up sheet.

Love and blessings,

Belle

424-5143 home

907-388-3347 cell

March 23, 2018

Hi everyone!
My son Mike and I are having a great time in Yakatat! The kids and community are loving the music! We’re having a community square dance tonight and celebrating Palm Sunday at the Presbyterian Church tomorrow with Tlingit Gospel Songs with the help of local elders and some of our youth musicians… Tuesday night is reserved for adult music lessons. I’ve included a picture of some of the kids–and one of the sandy Yakatat beaches with the surf coming in… and am remembering the ANNIVERSARY OF THE 1989 OIL SPILL TODAY….

KCHU FUNDRAISER TONIGHT Sat. Mar. 24th at Homeport at 7 pm with 2 bands Kinda Celtic and Cabin Cruisers plus Malani Towle!

TECH CLUB THOR RAGNAROCK MOVIE SAT MARCH 24 AT 7 PM at the Cordova Center

The PALM SUNDAY Service at St. George’s will be led by Tia Vican. Church starts at 10:30 am. We will be celebrating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem–and then having a Passion Play…. Musicians come early at 10 am to practice the music.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES
7 pm services Thurs., Friday, Saturday at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church–plus their regular Monday through Friday 7:30 am services and Easter Sunday church at 10 am

Sunday 8 am Community Easter Service at the Little Chapel with Father Tom preaching–and all the local pastors participating.

10:30 am St. George’s Easter Service April 1 with egg hunt (older students hide eggs after communion) with Belle preaching, Godly Play, and Easter Potluck Brunch afterwards. Bring eggs to hide!
.
Check out our web pages at http://www.cordovaepiscopal.org and http://www.reddragoncordova.org We also have a village music ministry–and we’ve now have been to 47 villages!! http://www.dancingwiththespirit.org

APRIL 14TH ST. GEORGE’S RUMMAGE AND PLANT SALE So get some plants started–and also save your treasures! We have also had a request for gardening tips. There are Cordovans who want to grow vegetables this summer…. Anyone want to help? We want to raise money for a new church roof! Our church will be 100 years old next year–so it’s time for a new roof to preserve this beautiful building designed by the Rev. Eustace Ziegler, our first priest–and one of Alaska’s most famous artists!

RAFFLE ITEMS NEEDED for the St. Georgian Year of the Roof! Kris Kokborg is donating a quilt–and we need more items to put a new roof on our church–for a summertime raffle….

Thanks for your prayers for Carl Allen, Jr. who is struggling with cancer and for Neva’s mother Bonnie and for Deb’s Papa….

Need help with your WOODPILE–GETTING OR STACKING WOOD?
Call Jonathan Morehouse 424-7470.

YOUTH GROUP WILL NOT BE MEETING FOR TWO WEEKS…

Look forward to Youth Group activities in the future with leaders Matt and Kristel Rush. Call Matt Rush at 423-284-3347 for info–or if you can provide dinner any week.

MONDAYS is a MOMS, POPS, AND TOTS PLAY GROUP meeting at the Masonic from 10 am to noon during the school year. Explore developmental issues while playing with your kids. Call Katie Goodale 424-2232 or Cheryl Eleshansky 424-2238 for more info.

On Tuesdays, we’ve started a Gospel SING ALONG for Hospital Residents and Staff from 4-5 pm. Come and sing with us. Bring your instruments if you would like to…

TUESDAYS 7 PM SCIENCE CENTER LECTURE at the 3rd floor Forest Service Bldg.

WEDNESDAY 7 PM COMMUNITY PRAYER TIME! Set your alarm….and wherever you are stop for a minute or more and send your prayers to help friends and families–and everyone here and around the world. Pray for love, joy, peace–and joining together so that everyone can feel safe and loved with adequate food, housing, meaningful work, and a sense of belonging and working together for the common good…

DEVOTIONS 7 pm Wednesday nights at 7 pm at St. George’s. Come and sit quietly by candlelight for 20 minutes and then share… NEXT WEEK WE’LL JUST BE PRAYING FROM A DISTANCE.

CORDOVA CTC MEETING FRIDAY Mar. 30 at Cordova High School with registration and demonstrations at 5:30 pm and 6:15 pm meeting. Dinner included…. Be sure to bring your tickets found in your packet.
HOMEPORT is open on Sat. nights from 7-10 pm with great cups of coffee, desserts, free wi-fi, board games!! Enter at the side door below the Cordova Community Baptist Church.
AL-ANON is returning to Cordova! It’s for friends and families of alcoholics. Meetings are Monday nights at 7 pm at the Wellness Center (old DMV office). For more info, contact Katie at 907-965-5909.

FOOD DRIVE!
Help Cordovans in need by donating your canned goods, non-perishable and frozen items!

Drop food off at the Little Chapel’s upstairs entrance on Lake Avenue or at the Native Village of Eyak’s office in the New Harbor.

Recycle your Fishing Web

Fishing web can be dropped off at the Cordova City Baler in the fishing web recycling container.

Please remove any non-nylon material (remove cork and lead line).

TO JOIN THE Recycling Action TEAM Call Shae Bowman 424-3334 or email shae@copperriver.org

THE CITY RECYCLES PAPER/CARDBOARD, ALUMINUM CANS, AND GLASS at the lot behind AC.

LEAD ACID BATTERY RECYCLING behind NVE building. Small batteries can be recycled at the PO–along with aluminum cans.

ILANKA Health Center offers 2 free appointments for those ready to do something about their addictions to drugs and/or alcohol. Call 424-3622.

ALSO A REMINDER THAT IT’S TIME TO RENEW MEDIVAC INSURANCE–$125 for a household. http://www.apollomt.com or call 888-457-1711

GET IN SHAPE at Bidarki, our saltwater pool (now open at 7 am Tues. and Thurs. for lap swim or exercise–and 8 am MWF) or at the Masonic Temple weight room which is open 24 hours (check out the key from the police department). Bidarki also has longer hours for those with passes.

There are some Tai Chi classes on Tues., Thurs, and Sat. at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall from 1 to 1:30 pm.

CURRENT RHYTHMS teaches Yoga and Dance Classes. THEY ARE CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF TEACHING DANCE IN CORDOVA! Call 424-3632 to sign up for classes–or just come!

Bryan and Bree Mills have adopted a little girl!! And Bryan is offering his services as a computer expert in return for donations to help with their adoption costs… Email Bryan at <bryanmills84@gmail.com>

Love and blessings,

Belle
424-5143 home
907-388-3347 cell

February 10, 2018

Hi everyone!

Happy Valentine’s Day a little early!

I flew in today from a two week Dancing with the Spirit music camp trip to Point Hope and Eagle–from one side of the state to the other! I’ve included a picture of our Dancing with the Spirit staff (myself, Mike Mickelson, Josephine Malemute, and Rion Schmidt) as we prepared to leave Point Hope with a truck load of instruments and gear. Plus there’s a picture of some of Point Hope’s delightful first graders!

There were polar bears walking around Point Hope–so we weren’t able to walk around ourselves! Sea ice conditions are poor–so the bears weren’t able to be out hunting seals–and came to town looking for food. We didn’t see any ourselves–but the neighbors in the house next to where Mike was staying saw one. And the pilots saw one as our plane took off.

Josephine and I continued on to Eagle–where in addition to having fun playing music with the kids–we got to see the Yukon Quest. There was quite a bit of frost bite among the mushers and the trail breakers on snow machines because of the cold (40 below and more) and windy conditions.

St. George’s is having a Mardi Gras Pancake Supper this Monday Feb. 12th at 5:30 pm at the Red Dragon–along with our Youth Group. Come and join us for sourdough pancakes, pancake races, and Cajun music.

The Cordova Historical Society presents a program on KATALLA our neighbor this Monday Feb. 12th at 7:30 pm at the Cordova Center.

On Tuesdays, we’ve started a Gospel SING ALONG for Hospital Residents and Staff from 4-5 pm.

St. George’s will also have a short ASH WEDNESDAY CHURCH SERVICE at noon on Wednesday.

St. Joseph’s will have their ASH WEDNESDAY Services at 7:30 am and 7 pm.

THIS SUNDAY at St. George’s–church starts at 10:30 am. There will be Godly Play for the children. I’ll be preaching on Mark 9:2-9 about mountain top experiences—and we will have Holy Communion. Musicians come early at 10 am to practice.

Check out our web pages at http://www.cordovaepiscopal.org and http://www.reddragoncordova.org We also have a village music ministry–and we’ve now have been to 45 villages!! http://www.dancingwiththespirit.org

WOOD CUTTING AND SPLITTING
Call Jonathan Morehouse to get wood–or help you with your woodpile. 424-7470

DEVOTIONS 7 pm Wednesday nights at 7 pm at St. George’s. Come and sit quietly by candlelight for 20 minutes and then share…
HOMEPORT is open on Sat. nights from 7-10 pm with great cups of coffee, desserts, free wi-fi, board games!! Enter at the side door below the Cordova Community Baptist Church.
DIABETES SELF MANAGEMENT CLASS Feb. 7 thru March 14 meeting at the NVE Wellness Center (the old DMV office). Patients will receive fresh produce every week they attend–and those who attend all the classes will receive a monthly Full Circle Box for a year. Call Katie Goodale at 424-7738 to register and find out more.

CITY ELECTIONS coming up on March 6th!

AL-ANON is returning to Cordova! It’s for friends and families of alcoholics. Meetings are Monday nights at 7 pm at the Wellness Center (old DMV office). For more info, contact Katie at 907-965-5909.
WINTER WHITE COPPER RIVER GALLERY at the Cordova Center has artwork for sale by local artists and continues this month.

PLACES TO GIVE TO HELP OTHERS WORLDWIDE
Episcopal Relief and Development http://www.episcopalrelief.org
Heifer International http://www.heifer.org
World Vision http://www.worldvision.org
Food for the Hungry http://www.fh.org

LOCAL CHARITIES (Check out the Dec. 15 article in the Cordova Times by Teal Barmore).
Copper River Watershed Project
Eyak Preservation Council
Prince William Sound Science Center
Cordova 4H Clubs (Winter Morning Music and Summer Music Camp)
Friends of the Libraries
Cordova Arts and Pageants
Cordova Volunteer Fire Department
Alaska Hummingbird Project
Cordova Historical Society
Cordova Trap and Gun Club
PLUS THE SALVATION ARMY, OUR LOCAL CHURCHES, STUDENT ACTIVITIES, the RED DRAGON HISTORIC DISTRICT and our village music program DANCING WITH THE SPIRIT .