Supports alcohol tax increase

To the editor:

I grew up in a family that was negatively affected by alcohol and have witnessed the joy of recovery from alcohol.

In 1981, my family’s work in the recovery field developed Nugen’s Ranch, which is based on a vision of supporting sober living for Alaskans. You see, recovery is not just about not drinking; it is about living in an environment that supports and embraces sobriety.

Alcohol taxes are an environmental approach to reducing alcohol abuse. By bringing Proposition B-1 to the voters, the Mat-Su Borough Assembly is giving voters a chance to help all borough residents live in a community that supports individual sobriety.

Perhaps more importantly, this alcohol tax would also help create an environment where our youth are less likely to begin unhealthy drinking practices. A youth who begins drinking before the age of 15 is five times more likely to develop alcohol dependence as an adult than someone who waits until 21 to drink. If a 5 percent sales tax on alcohol keeps one youth from beginning to drink before 21 isn’t is worth it?

I urge everyone to vote yes on Proposition B-1 on Oct. 1.

Karen Nugen-Logan

Executive Director

Nugen’s Ranch