Monthly Archives: September 2009

Saturday, October 10, 2009 8:00am – 12:00 noon
Delta Community Center

$40 Comprehensive Blood Test includes a panel of 27 tests screening for: Cholesterol, Diabetes, Kidney function, Nutrition, Liver function, Anemia, and more. Please fast for 12 hours, but be sure to drink lots of water, prescription medication should be taken as prescribed, and diabetics should not fast.

$30 Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

$25 Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test for prostate disease recommended for men over age 45.

$50 Vitamin D levels (All blood tests are for ages 18 and older only)

Free Health Screenings:
Blood Pressure
Height/Weight BMI
Vision/Glacoma
Hearing

Free Health Education:
Nutrition
Proper Canning/Pressure Canning
Diabetes
Physical Activity
Gun Safety
And more……

Breast Cancer Detection Center Mammography Unit will be on site. Call Public Health for More Info: 895-4292

Testing can help you learn about your health and detect potential problems early, when treatment or changes in personal habits can be most effective. These tests results give you and your health care provider important information about your physical condition and vital organ functions. However, it is not possible to diagnose or treat any condition on the basis of this general health screening alone, and your test results should not be considered a final diagnosis.

Have you fasted? Some test results will be affected if you’ve recently eaten. Fasting means no food or drink, except water. the optimum fasting time for the Chemistry/Hematology Profile is 12 hours. Test results will be automatically reported to you in approximately 2 weeks. Testing is available only to adults over 18 years of age.

By Kent Cummins

Public Affairs Officer
Fort Greely Garrison

In a matter of hours Eagle, Alaska, was changed forever.
In early May 2009 it took the mighty ice-packed Yukon River just 48 hours to engulf the old riverside village of Eagle. It devoured trees, homes and businesses, dramatically changing the landscape.

It also changed lives.

“I grew up on the river and it is hard when something takes that away from you,” said Ruth Ridley, an Athabascan who was born and raised in Eagle.

“I cried when I saw the old village was gone,” Ridley said. “I cried and cried, but I’m stronger now.”

Ridley, like many of the 180 residents of Eagle, has called the Alaska village home for generations.

Although it took only hours for the worst-ever recorded ice flooding to consume Eagle, help came just as fast.

The first person to arrive on scene to help with the disaster and begin the recovery effort was Jerry Isaac, president and chairman of the Tanana Chiefs Conference, a traditional tribal consortium of the 42 villages of Interior Alaska.

Help also came pouring in from all over the country including members of Fort Greely.

When Craig Odom, contract performance evaluator, heard the installation was planning a “reutilization” sale of excess items he mentioned the flooding victims to a member of the Logistics Directorate.

“I was checking into the opportunity to bid on some of the excess furniture,” said Odom. “Most of it was in near new condition. However, I thought there may be a chance to help others who were less fortunate … it simply was the right thing to do considering the disaster situation.”

Odom’s inspiration soon turned to action.

“This provided the Fort Greely Garrison an opportunity to distribute excess property, through the Army’s Reutilization and Marketing Office, and furnish assistance to residents of the flooded villages,” said Ann Rasmussen, property book officer for the Logistics Directorate. “Any time you can help people in a time of need it is a good thing.”

The leader of the Fort Greely Garrison agreed.

“Alaska is the largest state in the nation but in terms of helping out your neighbor it is just like a small town,” said Lt. Col. Chris Chronis, Fort Greely Garrison Commander. “We wanted to be good neighbors and do the right thing.

Members of the Fort Greely Logistics Directorate worked closely with the Tanana Chiefs Conference to ensure the donated items would reach villages affected by the flooding.

“Fort Greely employees really stepped up to the plate to help the flooded villages,” said Chronis. “Our director of Logistics figured out a way to donate approximately 50 sets of furniture and appliances slated for re-sale, to the flood victims.”

“The Tanana Chiefs Conference could not be more pleased with the furniture donated by Fort Greely,” said Ted Charles, chief administrative officer for the Tanana Chiefs Conference. “Many families were devastated by the 2009 Spring Flood. This furniture is a great comfort to those trying to get back home before winter.”
In early September with the re-building process in full swing in Eagle, a 40-foot trailer filled with the furniture from Fort Greely arrived.

“It was very exciting for residents who had lost everything to the Yukon flood to come and pick up their new items … dining tables, chairs, couches, dressers, nightstands and beds,” said Stacey Pare, information, donations and fund raising coordinator in Eagle.

“We witnessed many smiles, thanks and even a few tears,” said Pare, who serves on the city council and also lost her home to the flood. “We would like to thank Fort Greely, Tanana Chiefs Conference, Interior Regional Housing Authority, Brice, Inc., and the Northern Alaska Disaster Recovery Services for making the donations possible.”

Joanne MacDonald, an Athabascan from Eagle, was one of the first residents to arrive to pick out furniture for her home that was being rebuilt.

MacDonald said she and her three children had just moved into a log cabin in the old village last fall.

“The river ice came up so fast we left everything behind and we lost everything,” MacDonald said. “The furniture is a Godsend.”

The flood affected more than just structures.

“I was supposed to get married to Brady Wallace from Fort Yukon in Eagle’s St. John’s Episcopal Church,” said MacDonald. “But, it was destroyed in the ice flood … the only items that survived were the church bell and baptismal.”

Although Eagle was the hardest hit, Fort Greely furniture and appliances were also sent to Stevens Village, Circle, Fort Yukon and Tanana, according to Charlisa Attla, Director of Special Projects for the Tanana Chiefs Conference.

Hundreds of volunteers and donations like the items from Fort Greely have poured in to Interior Alaska villages from businesses across the country.

Rob Paire, volunteer coordinator for Light Shine Ministries in Lancaster, Pa., was one of the first to arrive in Eagle to help with volunteers, donations and the recovery effort.

“We are so thankful to all the many folks who have put their own lives on hold to come to assist our community,” said Pare. “We are truly blessed by their presence. This has been a great experience for all of us, the residents of Eagle and the volunteers.”

Joanne MacDonald and Brady Wallace did have their wedding recently and although they had to exchange vows in Fairbanks it is a sign that life in Eagle will return to normal … trees will grow, businesses will re-build and houses will become “homes” again.

Members of the Tanana Chiefs Conference load Fort Greely-donated furniture bound for flooded Alaska villages. Fort Greely furniture and appliances were sent to Eagle, Stevens Village, Circle, Fort Yukon and Tanana.

John Felix (left) and Timmy Maska of the Tanana Chiefs Conference load Fort Greely-donated furniture bound for flooded Alaska villages.

Ben Juneby loads Fort Greely-donated furniture in his pickup to take to his re-built home in Eagle, Alaska

Ben Juneby and Bertha Ulvi load Fort Greely-donated furniture in a pickup to take to their homes in Eagle, Alaska 4

Eagle, Alaska residents hug each other after picking up furniture donated by the Fort Greely Garrison.

The ice flood that hit Eagle, Alaska, damaged everything in its path including this car.

The Yukon River ice flood took this cabin off its foundation and moved it hundreds of yards inland. The flood destroyed the old village of Eagle.

One of the new homes built in Eagle, Alaska. The Federal Emergency Management Agency approved the funding of 13 new homes in Eagle.

The ice flood dramatically changed the landscape of the old riverside village of Eagle, Alaska.

A peaceful Yukon River as seen from the old village of Eagle, Alaska, looks much different than the river, that just a few months earlier, produced the most destructive ice flooding ever recorded.

The Delta Husky Football Association would like to thank it’s board members, parents, coaches and fans for all the hard work and dedication they showed this season.

Also a big thank you to business’ that donated items for our raffle. Delta Industrial, Delta Petro Wash, Granite View, Joyce Bendell, Kelly’s AK. Country Inn, Stan Stephens, Pike’s, Knotty Shop, Busy Bee, A Higher Knead,Pyramid Video, Sloan Family, Football Moms and Polar Bare Bath.

Thank you all very much!

We want to send a thank you out to all the Crafters and Venders that were at the Show Saturday. A good time was had by all.

We are looking forward to the next Show on Ocotber 24 at the Coumminty Center from 11:00am to 6:00pm.

 If you want a table space we only have 5 left so call me at 895-1987 to book.

Amanda used to be our events coordinator for the Chamber of Commerce. Her and Mark left here last fall and moved to Iowa. We miss you guys. Congratulations on Eme.

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska, Sept. 25 – The 1st Battalion, 52nd Aviation Regiment here will conduct a Memorial Ceremony Tuesday for a Fort Wainwright Soldier who died last weekend of wounds suffered when the UH-60 helicopter he was on crashed in Balad, Iraq. The ceremony will take place in the Fort Wainwright Northern Lights Chapel at 11 a.m.

The ceremony is for Spc. Michael S. Cote, 20, of Denham Springs, La. He was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, 52nd Aviation Regiment, Task Force 49. Cote served in Iraq as a UH-60 helicopter crew chief. He joined the Army in July 2007 and was assigned to U.S. Army Alaska in March 2008.

Additional Background:
As of Sep. 19, 2009 there have been 25 Soldier deaths in U.S. Army Alaska this year, as follows:
· 17 combat related, 8 non-combat related
· 13 in 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne) (12 in Afghanistan, 1 in Anchorage; 11 combat, 2 non-combat)
· 5 in 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team (3 in Iraq, 1 in Tenn., 1 at Fort Wainwright; 3 combat, 2 non-combat)
· 3 in 545th Military Police Company (3 in Iraq; 3 combat, 0 non-combat)
· 1 in 95th Chemical Company (1 at Fort Richardson; 1 non-combat)
· 1 in C/864th Engineer Combat Battalion (Heavy) (1 in Eagle River, 1 non-combat)
· 1 in A/Warrior Transition Battalion (WTB) (1 in Lee County, S.C., 1 non-combat)
· 1 in A/1st Battalion, 52nd Aviation Regiment, Task Force 49 ( 1 in Iraq; 1 non-combat)

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska – The last flight returning from Iraq for the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division is scheduled to arrive Sunday morning.

More than 100 Soldiers from the Stryker Brigade are expected to return to Fort Wainwright as the last of the redeployment flights and the return of the more than 4,000 Soldiers of the 1st Stryker Brigade, 25th Infantry Division.

There will be a brief ceremony held in the Administrative Holding Area at Fort Wainwright for each of the returning flights.

A few Soldiers will be responsible for escorting equipment from theater back to Fort Wainwright and are due to return in November.

The 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division deployed to the Northern Iraq province of Diyala in August 2008 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The 1st flight full of Fort Wainwright-based Soldiers returning from their tour in Iraq arrived on August 24th and started a steady flow of flights bringing home the more than 4,000 Soldiers of the Brigade.

Soldiers with the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, in conjunction with the Iraqi Security Forces, the Government of Iraq and the Diyala Provincial Reconstruction Team, conducted full-spectrum counter-insurgency operations in the Diyala province of Iraq in order to support the provincial government and facilitate stabilization and growth in the region.

The Delta-Greely Skating Association will be having a meeting with perspective hockey and figure-skating coaches for the 2009-10 season on Monday September 28th at 6pm at the Liewer-Olmstead Arena. Anyone interested in coaching is invited to attend.
The Delta-Greely Skating Association will conduct hockey and figure-skating sign-ups for the Atom to Bantam levels on October 3rd from noon to 3pm at the Liewer-Olmstead Arena (ice rink).

Thank you,
Rob Warren
Delta-Greely Skating Association President

BBB Warns, CRG Mystery Shopper is Giving False Addresses to Inquiring Employees
Anchorage, Alaska – Sept. 24, 2009 – CRG Mystery Shopper is raising concern with your Better Business Bureau. CRG, a mystery shopping job opportunity reaching consumers around the country, is claiming addresses that belong to other, unaffiliated businesses or organizations – including a Better Business Bureau.

BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington has received 51 inquiries in the last 60 days about CRG Mystery Shopper. The company has an “F” – BBB’s lowest rating: http://www.bbb.org/western-washington/business-reviews/work-at-home-cos/c-r-g-mystery-shopper-in-seattle-wa-22513652.

According to BBB’s Reliability Report, consumers allege that CRG Mystery Shopper is providing a Seattle, WA address of 800 Stewart St. Other companies located at this address have a suite number and BBB has not been able to locate a suite number for CRG Mystery Shopper at this location. Consumers also allege the company is providing two different Columbus, Ohio mailing addresses of 1169 Dublin Rd. and 77 S High St. 18th Floor; which belong to the Ohio BBB and a state office building, respectively. This company is not affiliated with either of the addresses mentioned.

“It is an automatic red flag if a possible employer won’t give you legitimate contact information,” said Robert W.G. Andrew, CEO of BBB serving Alaska, Oregon, and Western Washington.

BBB provides the following red flags to help identify secret shopping employment schemes:
- The job offer comes via mail or e-mail from an unknown sender, yet the receiver did not apply for the job.
- The employment opportunity advertises in a ‘help wanted’ section or Web site, but instead of hiring, the company is charging for a certification program, directory or guarantee of a mystery shopping job.
- The business sends work or requests personal information before a formal job offer is made.
- An up-front fee or investment is required. Consumers should not have to pay to be employed.
- Bank account or credit card information is needed to learn more or become employed. Beware if opening a new bank account through a specific bank is presented as a job requirement.
- The employee is asked to forward funds. Be wary of companies that overpay employees and ask that the extra money be forwarded to the business or another location, or give instructions to use those funds to secret shop or test a money wire service.

Although many employers will request a Social Security number, BBB advises job seekers to protect their personal information. Do not provide private data before verifying the company’s legitimacy. Research the employment offer online, ask for business contact information and verify that it matches the company. If anything looks suspicious, don’t pursue the offer.

Consumers can get a free BBB Reliability Report on businesses at http://www.bbb.org/.

COST OF PROTECTING FREEDOM. Purchasing a Friends of NRA raffle ticket – $20 Taking your spouse to the Delta Junction Friends of NRA Banquet – $80 Bidding on jewelry in the silent auction – $30

Having fun attending a Friends of NRA banquet -FREE – Total Investment – Only $130

Giving a Child the Opportunity to Shoot… Helping a Disabled Veteran to Go on a Hunt… Putting Eddie Eagle in Local Schools to Teach Gun Safety to Our Youth… Teaching a Lady to Safely Shoot Her Revolver… Insuring Freedom & YOUR GUN RIGHTS… PRICELESS!!!

Please come join us for a fun filled night where you can get together with like minded people and ensure our Traditions, Heritage, and FREEDOMS!! Delta Junction Friends of NRA Banquet

Saturday, October 10, 2009 at the DJ Moose Lodge Delta Junction, Alaska

For tickets call Dave at 388-3497 or Lady Ann at 873-4384 or

Swing in to Granite View Sports or Buffalo Center- NAPA Store or we will be at the IGA for two more Saturdays!! Hurry before we are sold out..

The Forrest Jones Memorial Scholarship was established in 1999 to honor Forrest Jones, a dedicated aviation maintenance professional and role model who combined innovative thinking and a common-sense approach to everyday problems. Forrest made a significant contribution to aviation in the State of Alaska, actively supporting aircraft operations for over forty years. His maintenance philosophy of “fixing it right, by the book” was combined with a high degree of professionalism and integrity.

The Forrest Jones Memorial Scholarship seeks to perpetuate this attitude and commitment to aviation in Alaska. The scholarship is awarded in early spring at the annual Alaska Air Carriers Association Convention. The amount to be awarded each year will be determined annually by the AACA Scholarship Committee. A scholarship in the amount of $3000 shall be awarded in March 2010.

The Scholarship Committee considers the following factors in determining awards
1. High school grades, college/university grades, or GED scores
2. SAT/ACT scores
3. Demonstrated leadership, citizenship, and community service accomplishments
4. Purpose, ambition, integrity, and personal initiative
5. Letters of recommendation
6. Applicant’s personal essay
7. Applicant’s ties to Alaska and intent to seek Alaskan aviation employment

Conditions
Applicant must be enrolled in or applying to one of the following (in an aviation field), or a high school senior applying to:
• Accredited college or university
• Licensed flight school
• Certified A&P program

GPA
• 2.0 or higher
• Non graded programs—Pass only
• Certified transcripts

Academic Load
Full load—12 credits per semester must be carried

Good Standing
• Student must be in good standing with the educational institution
• Scholarship will not be issued if student is dismissed, terminated, or does not complete flight school
• Scholarship will not be issued for more than five academic years, consecutive or not

Who may apply
This scholarship program does not exclude AACA members, board members, or their family members; anyone may apply.

Deadline
All information must be turned in or postmarked by the January 10 deadline.

No incomplete applications will be accepted.

Please click here for the Scholarship Application.

Ages 15 to adult classes will start October 1.

There will be 8 classes a month at $65 per person. It is Shaolin Kempo karate ( Kung Fu and Ju Jitsu style) taught by Annette Hannan, Member of the International Shaolin Kempo karate Association and a 2nd. Degree black belt.

Enjoy an hour work out as you learn self defense and go through the belt ranks. Classes will be taught on Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:45- 7:45.

Please stop by on a Tuesday or Thursday to sign up during youth classes at 5:30-6:30.

Thanks Annette Hannan

Dr. Eric Rentz of North Carolina, described as a “doctor’s doctor and consummate teacher”, will be in Delta to conduct a Wellness Workshop Oct 2-4 at the Delta Career Advancement Center. Dr. Rentz grew up on a Midwest farm, became an organic chemist, osteopathic doctor, and world traveler as he was recognized for his “down home” practical talent for remedies and health.
Dr. Rentz was instrumental in providing a solution for the SARS epidemic in Asia and was engaged directly with China through the State Drug Agency in Beijing to accomplish this effort. In addition he conducted an initial pilot study in an African country at the behest of their government to resolve a recurring epidemic of dysentery from certain bacteria such as E. Coli, salmonella and shigella. In one hospital alone during a one year period, 4,000 (half adults and half children) were afflicted with a bacterial dysentery with a very high mortality rate. The patients Dr. Rentz saw were treated and out of the hospital within a day. He will likely relate some of these experiences in the workshop.

The farmer in Dr. Rentz will be heard in the workshop as he begins it with a discussion of plant nutrition: “feed the plant so it can feed you”. Other topics will include minerals, human DNA, immunity and influenza (a very timely topic in light of the present fly pandemic), practical demonstrations, and a Q&A period.

Jon Dufendach of Delta is personally acquainted with Dr. Rentz and has been impressed with his expertise and extensive background in his field. He is working with Dr. Rentz in a research project involving molecular size exclusion techniques through application of membranes used for water purification to determine applicability in preparing silver hydrosol bactericides. Jon has been the beneficiary of Dr. Rentz’s existing knowledge by using his present formulation to cure toenail fungus without side effects. Jon recommends the Workshop highly and hopes as many as possible can attend.

The workshop is being sponsored as a joint effort of UAF Tanana Valley Campus and Partners for Progress in Delta, Inc. (PPD). Attendees will be offered a choice of 1 college semester hour credit or 1.5 Continuing Education Credits. The fee is $125.00 less a $50.00 PPD voucher.

A sack lunch for the all-day session on Saturday, Oct 3 will be provided. See ad in the Delta Wind or contact Cheryl Helkenn at 895-4605, or chelkenn@alaska.edu for further details.

Hi everyone,
We wanted to pass on some information to you about the flu especially since you are in contact with large groups of people. Please share this information with those who would benefit from the information. We sent the same information to the schools, clinic and the chamber.

Delta Public Health Center is expecting the seasonal flu vaccine sometime in the next couple of weeks, and the H1N1 vaccine sometime in October. People may call our office to check the vaccine availability or if they have other questions about the flu too. We will announce on the radio and newspaper when we get the vaccine and if we plan to have walk-in clinics…depending on the amount of vaccine we receive at a time.

We are encouraging people to follow the recommendations in the Home Care Guide, see attached, and we would be happy to speak with any groups about the flu and how to stop the spread of illness. It would also be a good idea to have a “buddy system” in your organization or church to check in with each other if they become ill.

Thank you very much in helping us get the message out there about the flu and preventing its spread.

Rachelle Hill PHN II
Delta Junction Public Health Center
PO Box 1511
Delta Jct AK 99737
phone 907-895-4292
fax 907-895-4264
email rachelle.hill@alaska.gov

Click on the links to open pdf files for more information

Home Care Guide for Pandemic Flu

Surviving the Cold and Flu Season English

Surviving the Cold and Flu Season Russian

Plan for an emergency

Cover Your Cough  English

Cover Your Cough Russian

Influenza

As the director of Public Health and the chief medical officer for the Department of Health and Social Services, I want you to know that combating novel H1N1 influenza, or swine flu, is my top priority.
The H1N1 virus has been circulating throughout Alaska since May 2009. We estimate that thousands of Alaskans have been infected, the vast majority showing mild symptoms and recovering at home, but some have suffered severe illness and three people have died from influenza-related complications. As a community, we need to support each other through our grief and concern by staying informed and being prepared.

Our department is working with local health-care providers and public health staff, cities and boroughs, and military and tribal partners to make sure that the H1N1 vaccine gets to all Alaskans as soon as the first shipments arrive in October. We expect to receive enough vaccine for everyone, but priority groups for the initial batches include pregnant women; anyone who lives with or cares for children younger than 6 months; anyone age 6 months to 24 years; health-care and emergency service workers; and adults age 25–64 who have chronic health conditions.

I also urge everyone to get vaccinated against seasonal influenza right now. Seasonal flu shots are available at most private care providers, pharmacies and, beginning next week, at the Delta Junction Public Health Center at the Jarvis Center (call 895-4292 to check for availability). Remember, you’ll need both vaccines — seasonal and H1N1 — for full protection against influenza this flu season.

The symptoms of both H1N1 and seasonal flu include fever, cough, sore throat, chills, runny nose, fatigue, body aches, headache, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Those with severe illness or at high risk for flu complications, such as pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses, should contact a health-care provider or get medical attention if they have flu-like symptoms.

The following emergency warning signs need urgent medical attention: difficulty breathing or fast breathing; chest pain; dehydration, not taking in or keeping in fluids; a bluish gray or dusky skin tone; confusion or irritability; persistent vomiting; and flu symptoms that improve but then return with a fever and worse cough.

All of us can make a difference by practicing these simple steps as part of our flu-fighting routine: 1) wash your hands often; 2) avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; 3) cover your cough or sneeze with tissue or your sleeve; 4) stay home if you’re sick; and 5) get vaccinated.

As we head into the flu season, get prepared and stay informed. You can find information, guidelines and links on our Web site, www.pandemicflu.alaska.gov, or by contacting us directly.

Sincerely,

Ward B. Hurlburt, M.D., M.P.H.
Director, Division of Public Health
Chief Medical Officer, State of Alaska

BBB Is Now Accepting Nominations for the 2010 Business of the Year Torch Awards

Anchorage, Alaska – Sept. 22, 2009 – Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington is accepting nominations for the 2010 Business of the Year Torch Awards through Dec. 1.

Your BBB proudly recognizes marketplace role models and companies of high integrity. Businesses in Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington will be awarded in the following categories:

- Large Business of the Year
- Small Business of the Year
- Innovative Business Practices
- Customer Service
- Community Involvement

“This is a great way to thank businesses in your community for their ongoing commitment to marketplace excellence,” said Robert W.G. Andrew, CEO of BBB serving Alaska, Oregon, and Western Washington.

Nomination Deadline is Dec. 1, 2009.

Visit www.akorww.bbb.org/boyawards to nominate any deserving for-profit business. Once businesses are nominated, they will be asked to submit information to BBB, which will be reviewed by a panel of third-party judges from various organizations.

Congratulations to Alaska’s 2009 Business of the Year Torch Award winners:

Large Business of the Year: Senior Care of Alaska, Inc.
Small Business of the Year: Alaska ATM Service
Innovative Business Practices: Mikunda, Cottrell & Co., Inc.
Customer Service: Debra L. Miller, DMD
Community Involvement: The Alaska Club

The winner of last week’s mystery photo is Darlene Chaffin

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska – The 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division is scheduled to complete the bulk of their return home this weekend with the arrival of three flights Sunday.

The 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division deployed to the Northern Iraq province of Diyala in August 2008 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The 1st flight full of Fort Wainwright-based Soldiers returning from their tour in Iraq arrived on August 24th and started a steady flow of flights bringing home the more than 4,000 Soldiers of the Brigade.

There remains a small contingent of Soldiers who are in theater loading and escorting equipment that will be shipped to Fort Wainwright. The last flight with Soldiers from the Stryker Brigade is expected to return before October 1.

A few Soldiers will be responsible for escorting equipment from theater back to Fort Wainwright and are due to return in November.

Soldiers with the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, in conjunction with the Iraqi Security Forces, the Government of Iraq and the Diyala Provincial Reconstruction Team, conducted full-spectrum counter-insurgency operations in the Diyala province of Iraq in order to support the provincial government and facilitate stabilization and growth in the region.

There will be a brief ceremony held in the Administrative Holding Area at Fort Wainwright for each of the returning flights.

“Personal and Professional Lives Devoted to Grassroots Community Service” is the letterhead motto of Alpha Omega Life Care Inc, and serve the community they do, day after day and year after year.
The Directors operate the local Food Bank on Rapids Street, serving as partners with the Fairbanks Community Food Bank. Last month at this time they brought to Delta and distributed to qualified folks three and a half TONS of food, requiring five freezers to be put into service.

This month the consignment and distribution will be even larger, as more folks encounter unexpected economic difficulties.

Earlier this week a letter was received at Alpha Omega Life Care Inc stating in part: “In response to difficult economic circumstances that many Alaskans are now facing, Rasmuson Foundation has awarded a …

Safety Net Assistance Grant to provide immediate support to those most in need of help staying fed, warm, and housed.

“United Way of Anchorage is administering and distributing the grant through existing, reliable…agencies…that currently provide emergency assistance….

“Because of your existing infrastructure and track record of serving such needs, we are relying upon your best judgment to determine the greatest service needs in your area and distribute the grant funds accordingly….”

Alpha Omega has, for several years, been helping local residents in just these very ways with other grant programs, and now has increased capacity for service. The Agency also transports medicaid recipients to Fairbanks for medical appointments, and assists applicants to apply for Public benefits.

Alpha Omega Life Care needs members–a mere $20 each–donations of dollars and food, and volunteers. Won’t you help?? Consider serving on the Advisory Board, or the Board of Directors. Call 895 4104 for service opportunities.

Complainants Still Looking For Answers
Anchorage, Alaska – Sept. 16, 2009 – Adoptees, birth parents and other relatives in search of their biological kin are complaining against GivenRight Research Inc, a genealogy company that promises to reunite long-lost family members.

BBB serving Alaska, Oregon, and Western Washington has processed 14 complaints on the company in the last 12 months. Due to the seriousness of the complaints, and the 9 unanswered or unresolved complaints, GivenRight Research Inc has a BBB Rating of “F”.
The company’s motto is “No Find, No Fee.” However, complainants assert that when they entered into a contract and paid the company a fee to find an estranged relative, the results were not sent to them or the information received was inconclusive. On www.givenright.com, the company’s disclaimer states “we have no-find no-fee available by contract only, otherwise your fees are set forth whether we find your party or not.” The disclaimer also states “there are NO REFUNDS unless we feel that to do so [sic].”

According to Washington state licensing records, GivenRight Research Inc is registered to Jennifer K. Robinson. Although the company appears to be located in Federal Way, their Web site states that they specialize in Texas adoption searches; yet complaints received by BBB stem from across the Unites States.

To file a complaint with your BBB, against GivenRight Research Inc or another genealogist, visit www.bbb.org.

Boris Marchuk passed away in Anchorage , September 15, 2009, after undergoing heart surgery. He was the first born son of Nick and Lydia Marchuk of Delta Junction. He was born in Trenton , NJ on March 9, 1955. The family moved from Pennsylvania to Delta Junction in August 1965. Boris went to school in Delta graduating from Delta High School in 1974. After graduation he went to Yakima , WA where he learned to operate heavy equipment. Returning to Alaska he joined the Operators Union 302 retiring from there in 2007. He worked many places in Alaska working as an operator on heavy equipment for road construction, the pipeline and the State of Alaska .

Many will have fond memories of Boris and his love of the outdoors. He owned a boat and enjoyed using it. Giving what some considered to be scary rides. He enjoyed fishing and was known to know all the good spots. Want a good fish story; well he knew some good ones. He really enjoyed going to Chitna and driving the boat while everyone else fished.

Although only having 3 nieces and 2 nephews he was and honorary uncle to many more who referred to him affectionately as Uncle Bo. His brothers married sisters whose sisters also thought of him as their brother in law. So although his family might have been small he was a favorite of a much larger honorary family.

Although many thought him gruff and his appearance a little intimidating Boris was willing to help when needed. He especially enjoyed helping if it involved being able to use his skidster. He had a generous heart and helped many that needed help.

Boris leaves behind his parents Nick and Lydia Marchuk, his daughter Heather Marchuk and her daughter his beloved granddaughter Mikayla. He leaves his brothers Walter and George their wives Cheryl and Paula, his nieces Jessica, Hanni, Erin, Lori, his great-niece Brenna and his nephew Jordon. His Aunt Vera Marchuk, cousins Peter, Paul and Nick and many other extended family members.

Boris was preceded in death by his nephew Joshua Marchuk.

Funeral services will be at 1pm at the First Baptist Church in Delta Junction on Saturday September 19th. The graveside service follow at the Delta Cemetary.

Sullivan Roadhouse Gardner’s & Friends would like to thank all those who contributed to the yard sale and to all the yard sale shoppers for their support of our 2009 event.

With your help the roadhouse will shine ever so brightly, this holiday season.

A milestone in the U.S. Department of Defense privatized housing program was celebrated Wednesday, September 2 in Bear Paw development as North Haven Communities broke ground for the first new homes to be built on Fort Wainwright. Guest speakers included: Colonel Timothy Jones, Garrison Commander, USAG, Fort Wainwright, Dale Connor, Managing Director, Actus Lend Lease. Reverend Trimble Gilbert, Episcopal Priest, Traditional Chief for Arctic Village, and National Guard veteran gave the blessing in both English and Gwich’in.

To meet the challenges of providing a better quality of life and to provide for the well-being of Soldiers and their Families, the U.S. Army formed a partnership with Actus Lend Lease called North Haven Communities (NHC). The partnership will finance, develop, build, renovate and maintain on-post homes for more than 1,500 Soldiers and Families. NHC is committed to creating sustainable communities that positively influence the way our Service members and their Families live.

Throughout the initial development period NHC will not only build new homes but welcoming communities where people can thrive, develop strong social connections and have a sense of belonging. Monthly activities and the incorporation of playgrounds, tot lots, walking and biking trails and community centers dedicated to the well-being of families will engage residents in their communities. A vibrant, active community life will contribute to the recruitment, readiness and retention of Soldiers and gives them peace of mind knowing their Families are in a supportive community which allows soldiers to focus on their mission.

NHC is committed to positively contributing to the local and regional economy by working with small businesses, relying on local resources and hiring local people. From project inception through July 2009, over $890,000 in contract awards were made with 100 percent of them Alaskan-based contractors. More than $7.2 million in awarded and pending contract awards have been made with 77 percent of the contracts to Alaskan contractors, 61 percent located in Fairbanks.

About Actus Lend Lease
Actus Lend Lease is the nation’s leader in public/private community development. With a focus on creating sustainable value, Actus Lend Lease creates communities that regenerate our environment, enrich people’s lives and foster economic growth. Actus has over 40,000 residential units in its portfolio, and has created fully masterplanned, sustainable, mixed-use communities throughout the United States, including Fort Wainwright and Fort Greely. Actus Lend Lease will finance, developed, build, renovate and will operate these sites for at least 50 years.

Anchorage, AK – Sept. 15, 2009 – Alaska high school students are eligible for a $1,000 scholarship. Your Better Business Bureau is now accepting applications.
BBB Foundation offers three Students of Integrity Scholarships in conjunction with the Business of the Year Torch Awards. Scholarships will be awarded to one student in each state: Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington. The scholarships are designed to support students who recognize the importance of ethical and responsible marketplace practices.

2010 BBB Students of Integrity Scholarship
Deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009

Eligibility Requirements:
- Student of the 2010 or 2011 graduating class who will be attending college after graduation.
- Actively reside and attend high school in Alaska, Oregon or Western Washington.
- Have a good academic standing and a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Essay Theme: Maintaining ethics and integrity in a tough economy.

Rules and Details: Visit www.alaska.bbb.org/scholarship for more information and application forms.

Questions: Contact Laura Fitzgerald, BBB Foundation Coordinator at BBBFoundation@thebbb.org.

Congratulations to the 2008-2009 winners:
Alaska: JennaRae Schulte, South Anchorage High School
Oregon/Southwest Washington: Monica Wang, Kelso High School
Western Washington: Michelle Lane, Kentridge High School

September 24, Thursday, 12-1pm or longer as needed At DCSP office, 239 Kimball Street
Teleconference Number: 1-888-626-7441 code 1949899#

1. Introduction of attendees
Special Guests from Banner Health and DHSS

2. Pat Carr: Loan Repayment Program
a. Describe the program
b. Some questions:
   i. What is the process to get our Delta clinic to qualify?
   ii. Does our workgroup do all of the recruiting for Delta, or can we combine efforts with DHSS?
   iii. Is the program only for primary providers, or can it apply to mid-levels (PA or NP)
   iv. Can the program provide for “direct-incentive” too (for recruiting mid-career providers)
   v. Other questions?

3. Banner Health guests:
a. Describe services, experiences with providing services in rural areas…
b. Open discussion, questions from the workgroup…
4. Rachelle: (as times allows)
a. Business Plan workshop…Deb Hayes to help coordinate
b. Family Support Picnic
c. Parent Aid for children with special needs
d. Tobacco Coordinator
e. Nurse grant progress
f. Health Fair on Saturday 10-10-09

5. Next meeting: October 15, Thursday, 12-1pm

Taken from the Fairbanks Daily News Miner
Sept. 8, 2009

To the editor:

Eleven years ago, I took on the task to bring back a roller rink with many hours of research and much of my own finances, working one-on-one to get a partner or partners.

I will no longer work one-on-one, only with a group of not less than six. My interest has been as a promoter of a “family/all ages” sport. There has been much interest — two to 10 inquiring every day. I finished my last one-on-one a few months ago and am ready to put all information and materials into storage.

I have come to the conclusion there is plenty of entertainment, recreation and other activities in Fairbanks, but not enough oriented toward families.

Almost three years ago, I was asked if I would downsize my idea to a smaller rink and take it to Delta Junction. I said there was a possibility — yes, I would. I also would take it to Nenana or Healy if asked. It would be a little harder to find promoters, but it could be done.

If you were interested I would set up meetings in your area and only promote one. I would like to hear from new people from other states and especially from the military, as most are from out of state and have roller rinks near their home.

I would like to see letters to the editor or to me or both. Floyd Terry, P.O. Box 73514, Fairbanks, AK 99707.