Thanks to all who pitched in for Sutton

To the editor:

The other day, my wife reminded me that, “It’s never too late to say thank you.”

We live in the town of Sutton, a little rough around the edges but nevertheless, it’s home. People here don’t always agree with each other, in fact, some don’t even talk to each other. But every once in a while we get together to do something right for the community that everyone agrees with. Sometimes we even get some extra help from folks outside the community. That all happened during Sutton cleanup week.

We’re fortunate to have more persistent neighbors who started early right after the snow melted even though that made some of us feel a little guilty for waiting. Chickaloon Native Village who organized this event in the past worked with the Sutton Community Council to make this not only productive but an occasion to socialize and show some community spirit. The kids helped, too. Ya Ne Dah Ah and Sutton Elementary kids worked in groups near their schools. Friends and neighbors pitched in and picked up. From Moose Creek to King River and up to the coal hills, it was great to see everyone out there taking pride in their community.

At the end of the week we had a barbecue potluck at the old Sutton Library. Usibelli Mine Inc. supplied cleanup bags, paid for food and all the toy prizes for the kids. Riversdale Alaska LLC purchased four bicycles for another kids’ drawing. Three Bears gave us a discount on the food and the Alpine Inn brought over a new barbecue grill. Small town fun after a week of elbows up and noses down.

In a small town, even if you don’t know what you’re doing, everyone else does. In this case, it’s good to know people are doing something. On behalf of the community, I would like to thank everybody who contributed to Sutton cleanup week. It makes a difference. I’m glad my wife reminded me.

Mark Bertels

Sutton Community Council