In 2019, an alien crash-landed on planet Earth and made friends with HFCC Prevention Specialist, Daryl Trowbridge. Because the alien’s name was incomprehensible (and un-pronounceable), Daryl, began referring to him “Mike” (the name of one of Daryl’s best friend in high school). And, because earth friendships differed vastly from those on “Mike’s” home planet, Daryl decided to bring Mike along to have students teach him what being a friend means here.

“Mike” accompanied Daryl on prevention education presentations throughout Clallam County, meeting with elementary school-aged students. At these presentations, students taught “Mike” about the importance of being considerate, kind, empathetic, and helpful and about sharing with one another and respect each others’ boundaries. Additionally, students shared with “Mike” that friends don’t have to look the same, be able to do the same things, or even like all of the same things.

A “name-the-alien” contest was launched as well, with names coming in from schools and organizations in Clallam Bay, Sequim, Port Angeles, La Push, and Joyce. After receiving several dozen suggestions, HFCC staff voted on the entries and “Goobi Ubi,” a name submitted by Crystal Adams of Sequim (and the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe) was chosen. In addition to bragging rights, Crystal also won a $25 WalMart gift card.

Congratulations Crystal and Goobi Ubi!