UAA Jazz Week Celebration 2008 to honor the Foster Grandparent Program of Anchorage, Alaska and to focus on Suicide Prevention.
Plans are underway to honor the Foster Grandparents program in Anchorage with a very special award in memoriam to the late Ida Mae Martin, a staunch supporter and volunteer of the program. This presentation will take place during the UAA Jazz Week Celebration concert, March 9th, 2008 at 3:00PM (Pacific Time) at the UAA Arts recital hall. The award presentation will be followed by a special performance of the theme song, “I Am So Thankful” on the soon to be released CD, “Tony Martin and Friends” (www.myspace.com/tonymartinandfriends).
“One of the songs in the line-up will focus on suicide prevention,” says Tony Martin, one of the guest artists for the concert. Tony, a survivor and former resident of Anchorage, said he attempted suicide some years ago. He will share from a first-hand perspective about his experience with, and help available for, depression and other symptoms associated with this national tragedy that claims approximately 126 lives a year in Alaska.
In the song, “Don’t give up,” most folks can identify with the lyrics. At one point in our lives, many of us experience feelings of loneliness and depression. “Let me tell you about a story, not so long ago, I was feeling discouraged, wondering which way to go, so sad and all alone, didn’t know right from wrong, dark cloud seemed to block my path …” The song’s resounding chorus trumpets aloud, “Don’t give up.” There is help, we are not alone; support is just a phone call away.
For help and support, call Alaska Careline – 1-877-266-4357 or National Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255
