The Northern Light (2025)

12/02/2025

Croft’s Comments
Surprisingly s*xy submissions from y’all

Q: What s*x position produces the ugliest children?
A: From TNL managing editor: “Reverse cowgirl. It's all shins and toes for women. How the f*** could that make a cute baby?”

Q: Where is the cl****is?
A: The journey to it is long and arduous. Many have wandered out into the great unknown, never to return. In summary, no one knows. It is likely that we may never know.

Q: S*xual assault is hard to talk about. I know I have been in situations that, in retrospect, were s*xual assault. How would you recommend people find support, as well as resources for explaining proper consent?
A: It is hard to talk about, but it shouldn’t be. This should be something that we are all educated on and communicate about. As far as support goes, there are many on campus resources, such as the SHCC, PSC and UPD. There are also support groups in town that offer group therapy. The Health Promotion Team can assist students and community members in understanding consent. Health Promotion Team faculty member Summer Sweet wrote an amazing article on consent for this edition.

To preface these responses I will note that there are some abbreviations used: FWB: friends with benefits. MMF: male-male-female. STD: s*xually transmitted disease. STI: s*xually transmitted infection. SHCC: Student Health and Counseling Center. PSC: Psychological Services Center. UPD: University Po...

12/02/2025

Spoiler: love is not actually dead — it's complicated

OPINION - In my 21 years of life, I have not encountered true, committed and passionate romantic love. In my own experience and my perception of others’ relationships, it seems as though many people these days are incapable of such a relationship.

The term “situationship” makes me want to walk into the woods and never return. “Talking stages” and “friends with benefits” are often sad fill-ins for people who cannot commit for whatever reason.

I myself have fallen for all of these situations. There isn’t anything inherently wrong with these encounters, if it works for you and your partner, that is great. I understand the need to discover yourself aside from a romantic or s*xual relationship. Emotional and physical distance is important at any stage of a relationship.

It is my opinion that — especially Gen Z — is incredibly poor at romantic relationships and communication. It can be so emotionally draining to give your time and energy to someone, only for them to “ghost” you.

While I complain about casual and low-commitment relationships, they have their place in the s*x and dating conversation. For some people, or for periods of someone’s life, it makes the most sense. I think where the real issue lies is that, in my experience, a lot of people in serious committed long term relationships are settling.

In my 21 years of life, I have not encountered true, committed and passionate romantic love. In my own experience and my perception of others’ relationships, it seems as though many people these days are incapable of such a relationship.

12/02/2025

Satire: S*x

Unless you’ve lived a life of ignorance and bliss, at some point you found out about the birds and the bees. Whether it’s the most awkward conversation you’ll ever have with your parents or a health presentation full of laughter at every word, s*x is a fact of life. Dread it, run from it — s*x arrives all the same.

I don’t think it should. You see, I am of the mindset that s*x causes many issues, especially at such a formative time for so many young adults who are making their way through the college experience.

Some colleges, including UAA, attempt to mitigate the negative aspects of s*x by providing educational materials as well as protection in student bathrooms. To me, all this does is plant the seed in a student's mind that s*x is good.

I am here to end this awful narrative. S*x is a detestable sin, and no one should be doing it.

To spread awareness of my call for campus-wide abstinence, I will be wearing a chastity belt on my head until further notice. Graphic by Edleen Guiao.

12/02/2025

My personal opinions on some of the s*x stores in town

Because of our geographic location and smaller population compared to other “big cities,” there aren’t many s*x shops in Anchorage. I know quite a few people that order their toys and lingerie online, and that can sometimes be a cheaper alternative. However, I enjoy the instant gratification of my in-person purchases. So I decided to hit up different s*x shops around town and compare them to one another.

Because of our geographic location and smaller population compared to other “big cities,” there aren’t many s*x shops in Anchorage. I know quite a few people that order their toys and lingerie online, and that can sometimes be a cheaper alternative. However, I enjoy the instant gratification o...

12/02/2025

A closer look at how UAA gets their freak on

UAA had a lot to say about their s*xual preferences — so much to the extent that we couldn’t include it all in the print. The Northern Light is here to share the rest of the results collected by the poll, starting with UAA’s favorite p**n stars.

UAA had a lot to say about their s*xual preferences — so much to the extent that we couldn’t include it all in the print. The Northern Light is here to share the rest of the results collected by the poll, starting with UAA’s favorite p**n stars.

12/02/2025

OPINION - High STI rates and low contraceptive use reveal gaps in education, access, and care across the state

Alaska is facing a s*xual and reproductive health crisis. The state currently leads the nation in gonorrhea cases, ranks third for chlamydia, and holds the 11th highest rate of syphilis per capita. Bottom line: Alaskans are much more likely to get s*xually transmitted infections, or STIs, than people in other states.

This is especially concerning for teenagers, as nearly half, 46%, of Alaskan high school students reported not using a condom during their last s*xual encounter.

Alaska’s approach to s*xual health education leaves many people without the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Unlike a majority of states, Alaska does not require s*x education in schools, leaving it up to individual school districts to decide if and how to offer it.

Studies tell us this is the wrong approach! Decades of research show that comprehensive s*x education improved health outcomes, yet many students in Alaska receive incomplete or exclusionary instruction — if they receive any at all.

Alaska is facing a s*xual and reproductive health crisis. The state currently leads the nation in gonorrhea cases, ranks third for chlamydia, and holds the 11th highest rate of syphilis per capita. Bottom line: Alaskans are much more likely to get s*xually transmitted infections, or STIs, than peopl...

12/02/2025

OPINION - In this article, I want to have an open mind and acknowledge that I am speaking from an entirely outside perspective. While there are many service providers that resort to s*x work due to their circumstances/poor financial situation, I know that is not the entirety of the industry. Not all s*x workers were forced into prostitution, abused, or trafficked.

Yet, I want to remain respectful to anyone who has experienced these things.

With that being said, I wholeheartedly believe that s*x work is real work. Not in a girlboss feminism way, but in a way that acknowledges all the work that goes into maintaining appearances, cleanliness, and safety while the industry remains under constant scrutiny.

It’s hard to open up an article like this because, admittedly, I had almost no knowledge about s*x work besides what is portrayed in the media.

12/02/2025

In preparation for our “s*x work is real work” article, The Northern Light reached out to women who worked in the s*x industry across various domains to ensure we were writing about the field in a respectful manner.

Whenever it comes to writing about issues that I don’t have much knowledge in, I always want to center my work around the people who are most directly impacted by the issues I discuss. Which is why I’m happy these participants took the time to answer these questions — sharing their thoughts and experiences.

In preparation for our “s*x work is real work” article, The Northern Light reached out to women who worked in the s*x industry across various domains to ensure we were writing about the field in a respectful manner.

12/02/2025

Most of my readers know by now that it is pretty uncommon for an article to be written by me that is actually hard news. I write columns such as movie and restaurant reviews, my advice column and the occasional piece about social life on campus. Well, over the last year or so, I have been told that I need to focus more on becoming a real journalist who reports on hard-hitting news coverage. That is why I have decided to deliver my readers some super hard friggin' news in this s*x edition.

What is this super hard news you might ask? Well, recently, the Adult Video News — AVN — awards were hosted in Las Vegas on Jan. 25. I have decided to fill my audience with knowledge about the leaps and strokes adult stars have been making in the business. So sit down, strap-on and buckle up because this is about to be a wild ride sure to last more than eight seconds.

Most of my readers know by now that it is pretty uncommon for an article to be written by me that is actually hard news. I write columns such as movie and restaurant reviews, my advice column and the occasional piece about social life on campus. Well, over the last year or so, I have been told that....

12/02/2025

Glazing the world’s best glazer

When I say the name Steven Wolfe, you probably have no idea who I’m talking about. When I say the name Johnny Sins, however, you know exactly who I’m referring to — unless you’ve been living under a rock. But before he worked in every career field on Earth, he was a much simpler man.

Born on Dec. 31, 1978, the man formerly known as Steven Wolfe grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Describing himself as being “very shy,” it’s unlikely those around him thought he would be one of the most recognizable personalities on the internet later in his life. He worked construction and other odd jobs after graduating from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania but felt like he wasn’t living up to his full potential.

Around the age of 24 Wolfe began balding. Instead of being embarrassed, he decided to go all-in and shave his head. This — in combination with staying in great shape — helped contribute to his signature bald-and-ripped look that he would become known for.

When I say the name Steven Wolfe, you probably have no idea who I’m talking about. When I say the name Johnny Sins, however, you know exactly who I’m referring to — unless you’ve been living under a rock. But before he worked in every career field on Earth, he was a much simpler man.

12/02/2025

Since this month’s edition of The Northern Light is the “S*x Edition,” it would be incomplete to discuss s*x without mentioning evolution.

S*x and evolution are inextricably linked. S*xual reproduction facilitates genetic variation by combining genes from two organisms.

However, acceptance of evolution in the United States has been a contentious topic.

‍A poll conducted by Pew Research Center on public perception of evolution in the United States found that six-in-ten Americans report that “humans and other living things have evolved over time,” while a third report that “humans and other living things have existed in their present form since the beginning of time.”

Given the significance of evolution to the natural sciences, The Northern Light interviewed the UAA community about their opinion on the matter.

Since this month’s edition of The Northern Light is the “S*x Edition,” it would be incomplete to discuss s*x without mentioning evolution.

12/02/2025

When in a relationship of any kind, arguing is inevitable. But frustrating nights should eventually end in comfort, communication and safety.

Detecting unhealthy and abusive habits while in a relationship can be difficult. The situation can be even more difficult to leave once these behaviors are recognized.

The Northern Light spoke with UAA psychology professor Dr. Jennifer P**n and doctoral student Lauren Kiker about unhealthy or abusive behaviors in a relationship.

When in a relationship of any kind, arguing is inevitable. But frustrating nights should eventually end in comfort, communication and safety.

12/02/2025

February brings candy hearts, roses and sometimes steamy encounters. When reflecting on s*xuality and the potential of s*x with others, it is important to remember some essential aspects to ensure a s*xy spring season!

S*x is a conversation: Let’s talk about it.

Safe s*x is the best s*x; knowing your status regarding s*xually transmitted infections, or STIs, is the first step to having a pleasurable s*xual experience.

It is recommended that s*xually active people be tested for STIs, including HIV, at least once a year and more frequently — every 3 to 6 months — if engaging in s*xual activities with multiple or anonymous partners. Testing after every new partner is also a best practice.

Next, have a conversation with your partner(s) about protection and contraceptive options. Barrier methods are the best way to prevent the spread of STIs.

Did you know there are many types of barriers? These include male and female condoms and oral dams, just to name a few. Discussing what is comfortable and desired to use is a healthy first step to a s*xual encounter.

Family planning and birth control options are also important considerations for all partners to be aware of and on the same page about.

February brings candy hearts, roses and sometimes steamy encounters. When reflecting on s*xuality and the potential of s*x with others, it is important to remember some essential aspects to ensure a s*xy spring season!

12/02/2025

Supportive relationships depend on each person feeling respected and heard. It’s important to communicate with your partner, friend or family member, to ensure they know how you feel. Through communication, we learn what the other person needs from the relationship, what is or isn’t ok with them and how that aligns with your needs.

Communication establishes clear boundaries in relationships and is essential for consent.

Consent within an intimate relationship is an informed and freely given agreement to participate in a specific activity. For consent to be informed, both people need to be honest and clear about what activities you would like to engage in — from kissing to back massages to s*xual activities, everyone has some activities they’re comfortable with, and some they aren’t.

Respecting a partner’s boundaries within consent is key to a supportive relationship, but how do you know if your partner is consenting or not?

It’s easy to find out: Just ask!

Relationships come in many forms, including friendships, and can be supportive or unhealthy. It’s important to learn about healthy relationships to stay safe and respectful. Photo by stokpic courtesy of Pixabay.

12/02/2025

As you prepare for Valentine's Day with someone you're romantically interested in, we encourage you to learn and work with campus organizations to understand what healthy relationships look like. Besides learning about where the law and romance "hook up," we wanted to share additional information that can assist you while you are at UAA.

Here at the University Police Department, or UPD, we work closely with the UAA Health Promotions and Wellness team, the Office of Equity and Compliance, Residence Life, the Dean of Students Office, the CARE Team, and the Dating Violence S*xual Assault (DVSA) Coalition for Change to promote a culture of respect and support for our entire university community.

When discussing education and prevention, UPD offers a variety of presentations and everyday conversations with people to promote prevention programs that address interpersonal violence issues which impact the university community and Alaska at large.

As you prepare for Valentine's Day with someone you're romantically interested in, we encourage you to learn and work with campus organizations to understand what healthy relationships look like. Besides learning about where the law and romance "hook up," we wanted to share additional information th...

12/02/2025

The recently published book “S*x Work Policy: Participatory Action Research by and for S*x Workers and S*x Trafficking Survivors” is an accessible and powerful read, making complex policies digestible for those without a policy background. Balanced with depth and clarity, “S*x Work Policy” allows readers to understand better what s*x workers are going through and what can be done to improve our lives.

With the combination of research, personal stories, and clear actionable policy recommendations, it stands as one of the most valuable resources for anyone looking to understand the realities of s*x work in the U.S.

It was written by s*x workers and s*x trafficking survivors with a participatory action research methodology, which involves the active participation of those affected by the research. The lived experiences of those in the s*x industry make it a must read for anyone wanting to understand the impact of policies on health, safety, and working conditions.

The recently published book “S*x Work Policy: Participatory Action Research by and for S*x Workers and S*x Trafficking Survivors” is an accessible and powerful read, making complex policies digestible for those without a policy background. Balanced with depth and clarity, “S*x Work Policy” a...

12/02/2025

Romance is the most popular, and often most maligned, genre in publishing. Its popularity is still growing, especially in Alaska

On a Saturday afternoon, it was standing room only at Anchorage’s only romance bookstore, Beauty and the Book. Five authors were gathered for a panel on romance books, sharing everything from book inspiration to s*x scene logistics. The large and excited audience of romance readers at this event is no accident — romance is a wildly popular genre nationwide, and Alaskan audiences are just as hungry for love.

Romance is currently the titan of the publishing industry, but the genre has been widely popular from the late 1800s onward. In 2021-2022, the romance genre saw an over 50% increase in print sales while many other genres stagnated or declined.

What makes a romance novel? That definition can be quite broad: According to the Romance Writers of America website, a romance novel must have a central love story and an emotionally satisfying ending. Romance can then be divided up into all kinds of sub genres: western, sci-fi, historical, paranormal… the list goes on and on.

The front room of Beauty and the Book was packed for the Alaska Writer's Guild's Alaska Romance Panel on February 8, 2025. Photo by Taylor Heckart.

12/02/2025

Consumers are selective in their choices of Valentine's gifts

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner on Feb. 14, and local grocery stores are well-stocked with various treats and gifts. Some stores are overstocked with Valentine’s goodies, and it appears some consumers aren’t ready to indulge in the holiday spirit just yet. However, some plushies, limited edition chocolates and flower bouquet Legos capture consumer attention. S*xual health products like condoms and toys are locked up at the visited stores (except Carrs), prompting consumers to conjure up the courage to ask busy retail workers to unlock the case.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner on Feb. 14, and local grocery stores are well-stocked with various treats and gifts. Some stores are overstocked with Valentine’s goodies, and it appears some consumers aren’t ready to indulge in the holiday spirit just yet. However, some plushies, lim...

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