On December 5, 2005 the World Harmony Run visited Russian Jack Elementary School in Anchorage, Alaska. Palyati Fouse ran with about 30 kids during an after school program called 21st Century Outreach. The program is a joint effort between the Anchorage School District and the Municipality of Anchorage Parks and Recreation Outreach Program.

Encouraged by Margaret Timmerman of Parks and Rec., Palyati was met by Linda Wetherby of Russian Jack and John Hemmiter of 21st Century . We first met in the gym where Palyati explained the run and the kids saw a short video.

The excitement grew after we went outside and the torch was lit. We began the program at 4 p.m. and the sun had already set. The air felt warm at 20 F as we just came off a week long cold snap when temperatures hovered around 0F. The trees were heavy with snow and the torch glowed serenely against the blue of the darkened sky as we observed a moment of silence before starting. As you can guess, the run began with an incredible burst of energy, some of it generated for warmth. All the kids got a chance to carry the lit torch and their enthusiastic response was reflected in their faces. WHR would like to express a special thanks to Nate Smith who was the photographer and videographer.

We will see these kids again the last week of April 2006 when the World Harmony Run will return to Russian Jack and several other schools in conjunction with the 21st Century Outreach after school program.

About a week earlier, Palyati and her friend Billye Crafton ran with the torch high in the Chugach Mountains above Anchorage. It was super cold (2F) that day, too cold to wear T-shirts. So, we pinned them to the front of our coats. When it is cold, it is clear and the views of Mt. McKinley 160 air miles away are outstanding. Joining us in the run are the ever enthusiastic dogs, Kaiser, Sosay, and Katie Yoda. Again, thanks to Nate for the photography and video.

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