Ukraine war has an impact in Alaska

Spring planning is well underway for the 2023 open water season. Unfortunately, there is no relief in sight from last year’s higher fuel prices. The oil market has seen some decrease in crude oil prices, but is being offset with another year of high inflation and increased tank ship charter rates. The Ukrainian war and Russian sanctions have disrupted international trade by rerouting ships. Vessels are avoiding war areas and diverting to alternate markets in response to a widespread Russian oil embargo. The result is tanker ships carrying more cargos on longer voyages. This increased demand has the same effect as a $15 per barrel, or $.35 per gallon increase in the ocean transportation. For seasonal markets like Western Alaska, those costs are added to other market pressures such as inflation. If there is a more severe disruption to the energy market, either from global conflict or another severe storm like Murbok, it could threaten the economics of fall top-offs. Vitus recommends placing an annual fuel order instead making separate spring and fall orders.

Mike Poston

Director of Sales

Vitus Energy, LLC

Tips to Avoid Binge Drinking During March Madness

The NCAA tournament, known as March Madness, is one of the most exciting sporting events of the year. Everyone gets to witness exciting and competitive basketball.

Yet, many college students and fans attend tailgate parties, bar viewing events, and post-game celebrations during the tournament. There is often a single-minded goal of drinking in excess.

While the average adult of legal age consumes alcohol responsibly, one cannot ignore that binge drinking is a common problem at large sporting events.

It is challenging to avoid the pitfalls. Fortunately, there are practical ways for anyone to stay sober and participate responsibly.

Firstly, if you know someone struggling with a substance use disorder, they must receive help. Any drug or alcohol use problems become worse with time and no treatment.

“Binge drinking is most common among younger adults aged 18 to 34,” said Marcel Gemme of Addicted.org. “It is also most common among men. We believe adequate preventative information and awareness helps people make responsible choices.”

While avoiding the pitfalls of binge drinking may seem challenging, there are practical approaches anyone can utilize.

Suppose someone is in recovery from an addiction or choosing sobriety during the tournament. Begin with identifying relapse triggers, such as people, groups, places, environments, or anything that could trigger you to want to drink. Avoid these triggers and set clear boundaries and limitations for yourself.

Manage negative emotions and find healthy outlets, such as exercise or hobbies. When attending a game or post-game celebrations, go with sober like-minded people and bring non-alcoholic drinks. Practice saying no when people offer alcohol.

Finally, have an exit plan if things become too much to manage and lean on support such as 12-step meetings, peers, friends, or family members.

In contrast, suppose someone is a casual drinker of legal age. Stick to one or two alcoholic beverages during the game. Drink water. Have a full meal to avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Avoid drinking games and environments that promote binge drinking. Do not drink and drive.

Statistically, one in six US adults binge drinks, with 25% doing so at least weekly. Binge drinking is a pattern of consuming alcohol that increases blood alcohol concentration to or above 0.08%. Among adult men, it can take five drinks or more in two hours, and for women, four drinks or more in two hours.

Severe consequences affect college students, their families, and college campuses across the state.

While the obvious is poor academic performance. The most severe outcomes include alcohol poisoning, suicide attempts, violence, DUIs, unsafe sexual behavior, sexual assault, assault, and even death.

March Madness showcases the best basketball talents in the nation. Participating in the festivities and celebrations should not cost anyone their health or future. Stay safe, make good choices, and be responsible when it comes to alcohol.

Nickolaus Hayes

Calgary, Alberta

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