Collective gameplay in two Alaska posts surpasses goal, raises money for VCF.
Two far-flung Alaska American Legion posts found a uniquely collaborative way to meet the USA 250 Challenge on April 11.
Henry "Gene" Burton Sr. Memorial Post 13 in Sitka, located on an island in the southern part of the state, is almost 600 miles by air from Anchorage and Spenard Post 28. But their commanders found a way to get their posts, Legion Families and communities together to have fun, spread awareness of the Legion’s priorities and raise money.
Magic: The Gathering® (M:TG) is a highly popular game made up of thousands of collectible and tradable cards, which players can use to cast spells and deploy creatures against foes such as the Eldrazi, “born of the infinite void between realities.” Distributor Hasbro estimates it has been played by more than 50 million people globally since its introduction in 1993. It features a number of offshoots and formats, from 1x1 single combat up to Commander teams of 3-5. Perhaps naturally, it was the latter that commanders Vince Winter of Post 13 and Henry Pagan of Post 28 chose to highlight in their effort to reach 250 hours of collective gameplay in one day between the two posts.
According to the project outline for the “Magic: the Gathering-a-thon,” team members and the posts sought sponsorships for funds, snacks, MagiKids support for young players and more. All three Challenge paths were incorporated: each hour included reflections on mental health and the benefits gained from being around others, community service via the fundraising and supporting those who need it, and physical Move-It Minutes where players got up from the tables and stretched. “With every game played,” the outline continued, “we are building more than just a scoreboard; we are building a stronger, more resilient community.”
The event started at 8 a.m., and Winter later reported on Post 13’s Facebook page that the collective hours played surpassed 300; “What an achievement,” he commented. At one point, 41 players were participating. Pledge money is being collected, and Winter says it will total at least $1,221. In addition to the Challenge, the Be the One initiative was also spotlighted as “promoting mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging those in need to seek help.” M:TG was not new to Post 13, which has held Thursday game nights for several years that also incorporate video gaming. In fact, gaming as veteran support is not new to the Department of Alaska at all: it has a Morale Gaming Committee, of which Winter and Pagan are chair and vice chair. It includes tips on creating and hosting a successful gaming event, the many different types of games that can be used, finding a balance between competition and collaboration in gameplay, and the positive effects of gaming on mental health.
- USA250 Challenge