Patricia Freeman

"All toys are educational," say toy store proprietors from Anchorage to Fairbanks. The question parents should consider is what kind of education they want children getting from holiday presents.

As Alaska children settle in to another school year, some of their parents are waging war on the free public school system, calling on state lawmakers to give them more choice in "educational options."

Pope John Paul II, recently beatified by the Roman Catholic Church and one step from sainthood, brought together in Anchorage 100,000 Alaskans from across the state -- the largest-ever gathering here.

On March 17, the Catholic Church especially honors Saint Patrick -- Catholic bishop, "Apostle of Ireland" and one of the most well-loved and celebrated saints of all time.