New Information on City of Delta's Website

We invite you to stop by and check out the announcements on the City's Website.

There will be a public land auction taking place on Aug 7.

A City Rock sale. With a title like this, it's sure have your curiosity up.

A Look at Alaska's Past

The Battle of the Aleutian Islands was a struggle over the Aleutian Islands, part of Alaska, in the Pacific campaign of World War II. A small Japanese force occupied the islands of Attu and Kiska but the remoteness of the islands and the difficulties of weather and terrain meant that it took nearly a year for a large U.S. force to eject them. To read the entire article - see the wikipedia - your online enclyclopedia.

Today we are featuring some photos by Tom Mlinar, who has sent us pictures of Delta's past in the last 6 months. Thank you Tom for a look into Alaska's past.

Nikola Mlinar and Buddy, taken in Attu, Alaska WWII, 1943. Photo Courtesy Tom Mlinar

During world war two (WWII). It was kind of traditional, or at least in our area of Town Of Lake, Wisconsin, when a servicemen was off to war, they usually sent these little silky pillow cases to their mothers, sisters, or sweethearts. Most homes living rooms, or front rooms as we called them, had these little throw pillows about 18 inches square. They usually were on the daven ports, or couches. My oldest brother, Nick, was in the initial invasion of Attu Alaska, May 13 1943, and was there until Nov 1944. He was in Hq&Hqs Battery, 591st Anti Aircraft, Automatic Weapons Battlion. He sent these cases home to my sister. Recently She passed away, and these were among some of the things she had saved. The are all at least 60 years old.
PVT Nikola Mlinar
BBQ rotisserie built by guys at Attu Alaska 1944.

Japanese Army truck.

Photo of the Day - June 29

With the forest fires also comes some opportunities for some beautiful sunset pictures. This one was taken between 11:00 pm and midnight behind the Golden Valley Electric Association building in Delta Junction, Alaska, on June 23, 2006. Photo courtesy Barbara Tharp.

Important City Closures

The Landfill will be closed on Tuesday, July 4th in celebration of the holiday.
City Hall will also be closed. Have a safe and Happy Holiday.

Photo of the Day - June 28

This eagle swooped down right behind our boat in Valdez last week to catch his dinner. He spotted this in rough water from 1/2 mile away. (Photo taken by Amber Darland)

Delta's Ice Classic winner finally identified

Of the eight 2006 Nenana Ice Classic winners, one was from Delta Junction. As an online reader of Alaska newspapers, I could only find three names of the eight winners. They were the three names as published in an article from Fairbanks Daily News-Miner.

Dermot Cole's recent Sunday, June 25, column has a few words about the non-release of names of Classic winners. Dermot says, "I want to repeat a friendly suggestion I've made in years past. The ice classic should go back to the old practice of releasing all the names of the winners as soon as they are available." (Dermot Cole is a Fairbanks Daily News-Miner daily columnist.)

This seem very reasonable. Winning the Ice Classic used to be a big deal. When my family first moved to Delta Junction in 1984, one of our first community functions involved playing cards for Ice Classic tickets. We went to our new friend's home (NAME NOT RELEASED) on Nistler Road and had lots of fun.

As Dermot alludes, being an Ice Classic winner was a thing to be proud of. You were supposed to be happy you won. You'd tell everyone what you were going to do with all those thousands of dollars—besides "Go to Hawaii."

Dermot ends that little note with this, "According to the guess book, the winning tickets, each worth $33,812 were held by: Ronald W. Stewart, Fredericks & Co., Woolery, Joe Dinkins, Irene Roberts, Sharon Stockard, Ray Reinertson and Katherine Gauden."

Who is Delta Junction's 2006 Nenana Ice Classic winner?

New features on the Delta News Web

There are two new features here on the Delta News Web; one obvious and one hidden. The first is a feature called "blogs."

As you may know, the Delta News Web is using a blog format for the Community News section. It has allowed us to more easily post news, and it has allowed us to invite others to post information. You will be seeing more of this in the months ahead, I believe.

But there is more online "news" in Delta Junction than just the Delta News Web. There are a number of bloggers who are adding to the online conversation. We want to encourage this as a way of providing additional insight into what is going on in the Delta area. You'll notice near the top of most pages our new navigation bar. In it is an even newer link, "blogs."

Right now we have three blogs represented, one from a Delta area resident, and two from former Delta residents; one of which is yours truly. We know there are other blogs being written by Delta people, and we would like to add them to this page as well. We are particularly looking for blogs that talk about life, news and information about Delta Junction. Technically, we need a blog that has an RSS or Atom feed that we can use.

The other change is that it is now possible to more easily comment on news items here in the community news. Down in the lower right hand corner of each article is a link that says "# comments". If you have a comment to make about a news article, you may post it there. Comments are all subject to moderation, so you won't see your comment immediately, but it will show up eventually.

So, if you are a blogger, and would like to have your blog appear on the blog page, let us know. If you have comments, please make them!

Photo of the Day - June 27

Bob Geise and Erik Bostrom starting across the suspension bridge which spans College Creek on the way to Gulkana Glacier near Isabel Pass. Photo courtesy Ann Geise

Lumber Jack Challenge

Are you already dreading the coming of winter? Are your thoughts turning to cutting down trees and chopping firewood? How about getting in a little practice?

Once again, the Friends of Delta Agriculture are sponsoring the “Lumber Jack Challenge”. It will feature cross-cut saw and axe throwing competitions for both men and women. Prizes will be awarded to the top contestants in each category. The age limit for these events is 16 and up, all equipment is provided.

Head out to the Triangle (behind the Sullivan Roadhouse Museum) on Saturday, July 1st for the Delta Chamber of Commerce’s July Celebration and come ready to participate or cheer on the other contestants in the return of the “Lumber Jack Challenge”.

Photo of the Day - June 26

Its that time of year again, this photo was taken at the mouth of a stream feeding into the Chitna River. The gulls are feeding on remains left by fisherman cleaning their catch nearby. Photo Courtesy Reggie Salinas

FLASH FLOOD warning

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN FAIRBANKS HAS ISSUED A
* FLASH FLOOD WARNING FOR...SMALL CREEKS AND TRIBUTARIES OF THE UPPER TANANA AND DELTA RIVERS UNTIL 1000 PM ADT
* AT 200 PM ADT...RAIN GAUGES ACROSS THE WARNED AREA HAVE REPORTED RAINFALL OF HALF AN INCH AT DELTA JUNCTION TO NEARLY AN INCH AT TRIMS CAMP SINCE 8 AM ADT THIS MORNING.
* LOCATIONS IN THE WARNING INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE RICHARDSON HIGHWAY FROM THE SALCHA RIVER TO ISABEL PASS AND THE TOK CUTOFF FROM SOUTHWEST OF TOK TO MENTASTA PASS.

EXCESSIVE RUNOFF FROM HEAVY RAINFALL ON ALREADY SATURATED GROUND
WILL CAUSE FLOODING OF SMALL CREEKS AND STREAMS. DRIVERS SHOULD NOT ATTEMPT TO CROSS WATER COVERED BRIDGES...DIPS...OR LOW WATER CROSSINGS. NEVER TRY TO CROSS A FLOWING STREAM...EVEN A SMALL ONE...ON FOOT. TO ESCAPE RISING WATER MOVE UP TO HIGHER GROUND.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW WHERE YOU ARE RELATIVE TO STREAMS...RIVERS...OR CREEKS WHICH CAN BECOME KILLERS IN HEAVY RAINS. CAMPERS AND HIKERS SHOULD AVOID STREAMS OR CREEKS.

Flood Watch Upper Tanana Valley Today

...FLOOD WATCH FOR FLASH FLOODING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL TUESDAY
AFTERNOON FOR SMALL RIVERS AND STREAMS IN THE UPPER TANANA
VALLEY...THE TANANA FLATS...THE EASTERN ALASKA RANGE...AND
THE FORTYMILE COUNTRY...

A SLOW MOVING STORM IN THE GULF OF ALASKA WILL MOVE NORTH
ALONG THE CANADA BORDER THROUGH TUESDAY CREATING FAVORABLE
CONDITIONS FOR ANOTHER ROUND OF HEAVY RAINS OVER SATURATED GROUND.
RAINFALL AMOUNTS COULD EXCEED SEVERAL INCHES OVER THE NEXT SEVERAL
DAYS...WITH RENEWED FLASH FLOODING OF SMALL STREAMS OVER THE WATCH
AREA. THE WATCH AREA INCLUDES THE ALASKA HIGHWAY...THE RICHARDSON
HIGHWAY...THE TOK CUTOFF...AND THE TAYLOR HIGHWAY...WHERE STREAM
CROSSINGS AND CULVERTS MAY BE AT RISK FOR OVERFLOWING AND POSSIBLE
ROAD DAMAGE.

RAIN IS EXPECTED TO TAPERING OFF LATE TUESDAY TO EASE THE
FLASH FLOODING DANGER.

A FLOOD WATCH MEANS FLOODING IS POSSIBLE.

PEOPLE IN THE AFFECTED AREA SHOULD TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO
PROTECT LIVES AND PROPERTY.

THE NEXT STATEMENT WILL BE ISSUED AT 3 PM ADT MONDAY AFTERNOON
OR SOONER IF NECESSARY.

This is the complete text from the NWS Flood Watch

Native Dancers Photos

On the front lawn of Kelly's Country Inn, the Delta Ministerial Associated endorsed the evangelistic Pow Wow that was performed by the groups from Oklahoma, Florida and Washington, the dangerous Samoan Fire Knife Dance from Hawaii, Polynesian dancers, directors of Island Breeze and the Salcha drum group Thunder Hawk.

Thank you Barbara Tharp for sharing your photos with the community.

Photo of the Day - June 24

Broken pavement from the missing Rich Hwy. looking south .Photo copyright Richard Mitchell. As of June 24, DOT's website states: Richardson Highway in both directions: from Milepost 233 to Milepost 234 road closed to traffic due to storm damage and because the road surface has collapsed -- repairs are in progress.
Ruby Creek looking south just before bridge- I remember a road being here some where. Photo copyright Richard Mitchell.

Ruby Creek Flooding - June 23

Richardson Highway in both directions: from Milepost 233 to Milepost 234 road closed to traffic due to storm damage and because the road surface has collapsed -- repairs are in progress. (DOT) report.

Ruby creek looking north with lots of water running. Photo copyright Richard Mitchell

Aaron and Tommy Williams check out the small waterfall causing some of the damage to ruby creek Photo copyright Richard Mitchell

Photo of the Day - June 23

Rainbow Mountain in the rain with low clouds. Photo courtesy Ann Geise

Fort Greely Change of Command Ceremony

Photo of the Day - June 22

Nose to nose with a porcupine south of Delta. Photo by daredevil Eli Grossmann

Family Fun - July 1 - Lots of Fun

Plenty of fun…Saturday, July 1
Celebrate July with some family fun Saturday, July 1 behind the Sullivan Roadhouse.

The “Celebrate July” Delta Chamber of Commerce event is sure to be a fun filled day for everyone in the family. So see below for some of the fun and wacky contests that you can enter. There will also be plenty of just plain fun games throughout the day.

All-American Apple Pie Contest: Do you bake pies? Well, here’s your chance to win some cash if you have the best tasting pie. Bake your apple pie and bring it to the pie tasting table and the top best tasting pie will win. 1st place will win $100 in Chamber Vouchers, 2nd place will win $50 and 3rd place will win $25. Then the winning pies will be auctioned off. The non-winning pies will be sliced and sold by the piece. This contest is open to anyone that can bake.

Bike Decorating: Calling all kids…be creative…get crazy…decorate those bikes and you could win a prize. This contest is open to any age kid…but let the kids do the work!

Big Bubble Gum Blowing Contest: Get your jaw ready to chew, chew and blow the biggest bubble ever. This contest is open to all aged kids and adults. We’ll supply the gum.

Nail Driving: Can you swing a hammer; do you have the muscle and the endurance to drive a nail into a 2x4? Well, join us for the nail drive…we’ll supply the nails, hammers and wood. You come ready to hammer as fast as you can. This contest is open to men and women. The fastest driver wins!

Piggy-Back Races: OK mom’s and dad’s this is were you can really shine…now we know that you haul that child of yours on your back, so now it’s time to race other parents. This takes a little bit of coordination and back strength. It is open to parents and small children under 5 years old.

Wacky, Hairy Leg contest: Did you not shave all winter long, do you have enough hair to be a musk ox? Don’t shave yet, come on out and show the world your hairy legs. This contest is open to both hairy men and hairy women.

For additional information on the Celebrate July event please call the Delta Chamber at 895-5068

Photo of the Day - June 21

This photo was taken on June 2 by Scott Hollembaek of the bison taking a dust bath. Nothing feels better than a good bath! Love that hair-do! Photo Courtesy Ruby Hollembaek

Flood Watch in Effect Delta and Tanana Rivers until early Thursday

The National Weather Service has issued a flood statement valid until 6 AM Thursday for small streams flowing into the Goodpaster, Delta and Tanana Rivers. The advisory includes the Alaska Highway from Tok to Delta Junction, the Tok Cutoff from Tok to Mentasta Pass and the Richardson Highway from Delta Junction to Isabel Pass.

Read the entire flood statement >>>

Photo of the Day - June 20

Shemya Island McDonalds Sign: This is of course a big joke! Someone put this sign on the island years ago and everyone that comes to the island likes to get their picture here! Shemya Island is 2 miles x 4 miles, no trees and the wind blows all the time. And the rain and snow never come down straight but always sideways! Shemya Island has the Bering Sea on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, we get the weather from both sides, its ever changing, but mostly blowing wind and some kind of moisture in either snow, fog or rain. Shemya Island is beautiful, but very barren, no trees but lots of migratory fowl and in the summer gorgeous wildflowers of every kind and wild grass. Photo Courtesy Karen Gortmaker

Time To Donate

The Blood Bank of Alaska-Fairbanks will be in Delta June 28 and 29 to collect donations. They will be at the Community Center June 28 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm and June 29 from 10:00am to 2:00pm. This month’s drive will be sponsored by the Forget-Me-Knot Quilter’s Guild. Everyone is welcome to donate.

The Blood Bank needs to collect about 300 units of blood a month to supply the Fairbanks and surrounding communities for lifesaving procedures. There is no substitute for human blood. It cannot be manufactured or harvested. One blood donation can help three patients. You can donate a unit of blood every 56 days. That means that you can save 18 lives a year by donating on a regular basis! By the age of 72, nearly 95% of the population will need blood or a blood product. The only way we can collect the blood we need is through human donors like you.Before coming to donate, you should eat a good meal and drink lots of fluids.

When you arrive, a screener will conduct a short interview and you will receive a brief physical. If all medical conditions are met, a unit of blood will be collected. (Approx. 1 pint) Afterwards, the Forget-Me-Knot Quilters will serve refreshments. The whole process takes less than an hour.If you prefer a particular time for an appointment, please call Toni Lee at 895-4159 to schedule. Walk-ins are accepted as time permits.

If you were deferred on a previous blood drive, don’t let that stop you from trying again. Conditions change and you may, now, be eligible to donate. 16 and 17 year olds can donate with written parental consent. (Call Toni Lee for consent forms)Delta has been very involved with the local blood drives.

The blood drive in December collected 24 units and saved 72 lives. The Youth Court sponsored a drive in March. 26 units of blood were collected and saved 78 lives. Delta Junction has saved over 150 Alaskan lives in less than 6 months!

Remember, Alaska depends on its own people for blood donations. In Alaska, fewer than 5% of the eligible donors give blood. The Red Cross cannot send blood here in a timely manner. We need your help. Give the gift of life.

Photos and Community News Needed

The Delta News Web is looking for your photos that can be used on the web. We are starting to run a little low on photos. It doesn't have to be current. E-mail us. Please don't send files over 750 kb. If you have a big honker, call first: 895-4919. Not all photos will be used.

If you have community news you would like to share with our readers, please submit that as well. You can send your news to the editor. Thank you again for being an active part of the Delta News Web.

Celebrate July

Join the Delta Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, July 1 for the "Celebrate July" celebration.

Celebrate July will take place behind the Sullivan Roadhouse from 11 am to 4 pm on July 1. We have planned a fun family event that is sure to be enjoyed by all. Some of the events include: bike decorating contest, apple pie contest, hairy leg contest, three legged race, nail drive, lumberjack contest, water balloon toss, tug-a-war, and music.

This will be a great way to spend a Saturday and celebrate our freedom. So come Celebrate July! For more information call the Delta Chamber at 895-5068, watch the Delta news web and look for the complete schedule in the Delta Wind on June 29.

Photo of the Day - June 19

A look at Delta's past. Looking back at some of Delta's history.

The picture of the gentleman in front of the cabin is Lawrence Johnson and the picture was taken at his homestead at the confluence of the South Fork and the main stem Goodpaster River, affectionately referred to as "The Forks", this was also taken in 1960 by there close friend Charlie Boyd, Lawrence was well known in the area for his garden that he grew.
Photo Courtesy Dave Davenport

Alumni Photos

For more text and enlargements, please stop by and view our alumni photo album.

Isaac Anderson clowning around

Adrienne Leaskey - springtime is here!

Antonio Echo-Hawk Lopez relaxing in the sun.

Photo of the Day - June 17

This photo of a male harlequin duck was taken recently on the Gulkana River. Harlequin ducks are primarily sea ducks that spend most of the year in coastal saltwater, but come inland in the spring to nest on clear mountain streams, lakes and ponds. Shortly after the females lays a clutch of eggs the males will return to their coastal areas. Most harlequin ducks seen in interior Alaska probably overwinter in Prince William Sound but there is not a lot of information about their movements. Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Photo of the Day - June 16

Orca Whales surface in Prince William Sound near Night Island. Copyright by Dwight Phillips

Library Needs More Summer Readers!

If you're in 1st through 6th grade, come by the Delta Library and pick up a FREE Summer Readers Folder before Friday, June 23.

About 50 Readers have already registered, and we have folders made for 50 more - don't be shy!

Summer Readers is FREE and the group will meet Fridays at 1:00 in the library through July 21.

Photo of the Day - June 15

It doesn't get much cuter than the babies on the ranch. Photo by Tracy Hollembaek.

Notice of Availability BAX/CACTF Final Environmental Impact

Final Environmental Impact Statementfor the Construction and the Operation of aBattle Area Complex (BAX) and a Combined Arms Collective Training Facility (CACTF) within U.S. Army Training Lands in Alaska

U.S. Army Garrison, Alaska has prepared a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed construction and operation of a BAX and a CACTF within U.S. Army Training Lands in Alaska. The purpose of the proposed project is to provide year-round, fully automated, comprehensive and realistic training and range facilities for U.S. Army Alaska and other units. The preferred alternative is to construct and operate a BAX and CACTF at Eddy Drop Zone. The Army’s review of comments received following the Supplemental Draft EIS release in March 2006 resulted in minor changes to the Final EIS. For more information regarding the Final EIS, please contact Major Kirk Gohlke, (907) 384-1542 or email, kirk.gohlke@richardson.army.mil

The Final EIS can be viewed at http://www.usarak.army.mil/conservation

A paper copy is available for review at the Delta Junction Library or a CD copy can be requested by contacting Ellen Clark at Ellen Clark at (907) 873-1614.”

Photo of the Day - June 14

Pasque Flowers blooming off Clearwater Road near the Alcan Highway. 31 May 2006. Photo Courtesy Dale Pelzer

Jarvis Creek Fire Contained, Others Burning West of Delta

The Jarvis Creek Fire is 100% contained as of Tuesday night. An infared flight is scheduled for tomorrow morning to look for potentially dangerous hot spots. Delta Forestry is releasing some of the crews, but keeping an eye on the weather, because lightning starts are the next two days.

The Little Delta River fire – approximately 35 miles west of Delta Junction -- is now over 11,000 acres in size. The fire is being monitored but not attacked. The Parks Highway fire is over 50,000 acres at this time, with over 500 people working the blaze.

The smoke in Delta is partially due to the Parks Highway Fire and the Little Delta Fire.

This will be the last fire update until there is significant new information.

Photo of the Day - June 13

This photo of Delta bison herd cows with their newborn calves was taken during a recent ADFG bison survey along the Delta River. It looks like life is good on the river. Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Friendly Frontier Days Photos

A few more Friendly Frontier Days photos. Please stop by and see our family photo album with complete text and photo enlargements.

Austin and Cale Durham - Photo Courtesy Becky Peterson

Phil Kaspari with the axe throw - Photo Courtesy Becky Peterson

Rozzo and Martha Kimball - Photo Courtesy Becky Peterson

Friendly Frontier Days Photos

Friendly Frontier Days was held May 27 and 28. The weather started out a little rainy, but by noon time, the sunshine came out and a great time was had by all who participated.

We invite you to view our family photo album for more text and photo enlargements.

Cleeta and Rozzo - Photo Courtesy Becky Peterson

Adam McNabb showing the throwing technique - Photo Courtesy Becky Peterson

Kiss the Pig Contest - Photo Courtesy Carol Watkins

Photo of the Day - June 12

A look at Delta's past. The picture of Slim and Jollies at 4 mile Goodpaster River was taken in 1960 and as you can see by the clothes hanging on the line that it was laundry day, the area has grown up with trees in the last 46 years and some of the buildings are gone but the Huber family of Fairbanks still live there. Photo Courtesy Dave Davenport

Fort Greely mentioned in land swindle arrest

Fort Greely hits local, national, and international news for many reasons. It's been in headlines for paratroopers training for Iraqi roadside bombs, the nine National Missile Defense interceptors in silos, and most recently, sudden personnel layoffs. Gas pipeline contracts, Alaska railroad extension tracks, and peace camps put Greely's name in papers as far away as Britain.

However, just last week, Delta's own Fort has been hitting the AP wires for wildfires and land swindles. Wildfires around Fort Greely are not uncommon — Greely is in a chronically windy area and Army, Air force troops often start fires with bombs and rockets. But land fraud — that's really a new one!

Last Thursday, 8 June, AP wires carried news about a Stockton (Calif.) man who was arrested and accused of swindling thousands of dollars from innocent investors. "Lui" Tuitama allegedly promised investment partners they'd double or triple their cash if they bought land near Fort Greely, Alaska where an oil pipeline was being built.

Newspapers and TV stations in Stockton and the Central Valley reported Fiaaluae "Louie" or "Lui" Tuitama, was booked into San Joaquin County's Jail on a $100,000 warrant.

Swindled investors are reported to have invested sums from $12,000 to $60,000. This was to be used to buy land near Fort Greely. Lui Tuitama is reported to have said he had insider information that the federal government planned to lease the land for a pipeline.

In addition to the preposterous nature of a land swindle scheme, the story has another side. Tuitama, 50, who played football the University of Pacific, is father of Willie Tuitama. Willie is the starting quarterback for University of Arizona.

Last fall "Tuitama" was in collegiate sports news. Willie Tuitama took over Arizona's Wildcats football team as a freshman quarterback. UA's head coach Mike Stoops decided to "free Willie" in the second offensive drive against University of Oregon. After nearly leading the Wildcats to a come-from-behind victory against the UO, Tuitama went 2-2 in the final four games of the season.

Fort Greely land swindle and football in Arizona — Now that covers some real ground. It's definitely not a story one would expect about Fort Greely, Alaska!

Delta Area Fire Update 11 AM Monday

Delta Forestry reports that firefighters have now succeeded in containing 60% of the Jarvis Creek fire, but winds have shifted to the north, so fire crews are focusing on the southern perimeter of the fire.

The high winds experienced in the last few days actually helped by burning all of the fuels out of the center of the fire.

The fire is still smoldering and firefighters are in an extended mop up mode. Fire weather is still extreme, and Forestry officials are reminding area residents to heed the continued burn ban. This ban includes all burning, even in campsites and burn barrels covered with a steel grate and in an area with adequate defensible space.

This is a good time for homeowners to work on defensible space recommendations. Anyone uncertain of these recommendations can find them on the Alaska Division of Forestry website.

If you have any questions concerning this fire or any other fire in the area, please call Julia Phillips, public information officer at 894-4225, as an added note, residents may begin to notice smoke.

There is another fire of approximately 3,000 acres burning in Little Delta River area west of Delta Junction. With the change in the wind direction, area residents may begin to notice smoke. This fire is burning currently in a “let burn” area. The fire is currently being monitored only.

The Carefree Gourmet - Wacky Tips

It’s time once again for the semi annual Clearance of Joyce’s Desk, and I’m happy to report that I have some wacky kitchen tips and a few strange culinary facts to pass along. Hopefully these little gems will now clutter up YOUR desk, while I can toss the frighteningly large pile of post it notes I’ve been moving around for six months in the trash. I don’t go looking for these things, but they seem to find me anyway. There’ll be a small line at the bottom of some magazine article that catches my eye and I have to rip it out so I don’t forget it. Or maybe one of my favorite chefs on the Food Network will do something so smart and handy that I scribble it down and toss it on my desk where it’ll lurk for a couple of months.

Once in a while someone will say something to me at the store, like the nice lady (sorry I don’t know who you are!) who told me she always her bread basket with a piece of foil because it keeps her garlic bread warmer longer. This is MY kind of kitchen tip! You don’t have to rush out and buy something or build a dang gadget, or worst of all crochet or sew something to make it work. So with those stern requirements in mind, here are a few things I found interesting in the past six months.

Stop by and read the Carefree Gourmet's tips

Photo of the Day - June 10

This Great Gray Owl allowed us this photograph along the Tanana Loop Ext Rd. The Great Gray Owl is the tallest owl that we have in Alaska, for more information see Fish and Game. Photo Courtesy Rachael (Dunklebarger)Woodcox

Obituaries Philip Gene Roe, 54, Kenny Lake

Kenny Lake resident Philip Gene Roe, 54, died June 6, 2006, in a motor vehicle accident on the Richardson Highway near Meiers Lake.

A celebration of life will be at 2 p.m. today at Kenny Lake School. The Revs. Len Richison and Richard Irwin will officiate.

Mr. Roe was born Jan. 19, 1952, in Grand Junction, Colo. His family moved to Nampa, Idaho, where he spent most of his childhood. He moved to Alaska for adventure in the late '70s.

Mr. Roe worked as a meat cutter for Safeway and Elmendorf Air Force Base. He also operated a meat-processing business, Phil's Fish and Game, in Anchorage from 1983 to 1994, then in Kenny Lake until 2004, when a fire destroyed the business equipment.

Mr. Roe married Linda Marie Cummings, his "Norwegian Rose," in October 1983, and they had six children.

In 1994, the family moved to Kenny Lake, where Mr. Roe continued wild game processing. He also worked in Delta Junction for three years at Delta Meat and Sausage. In more recent years, he was employed by Service Oil and Gas in Glennallen, driving a fuel delivery truck throughout the Copper Basin.

Mr. Roe loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing and hiking.

His family wrote: "Phil was a warm, faithful and generous friend to all who knew him, and he lived a consistent Christian life every day. He loved to worship God and listen to Christian music. He adored his large family and worked diligently to provide for their needs."

He was preceded in death by his father, Gene Roe.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Roe; children, Chaley Hunt of Spring Arbor, Mich., and Brianna, Alyssum, Danae, Elon and Felicity Roe, all of Kenny Lake; mother, Emmajean Roe; brothers, Steve Roe and Brian Roe; and sisters, Carla Morgan and Coleen Heck, all of Nampa.

In lieu of flowers, contributions or gifts can be sent to the Philip Roe Memorial Fund at Wells Fargo Bank.
[posted per request of Delta Junction's resident D. Grossmann]

Jarvis Creek Fire Update 8 PM Saturday

Firefighters on the Jarvis Creek Fire burning south of Delta Junction near the Richardson Highway have successfully contained just under half the fire, but low humidity and high winds continue to pose a risk of fire growth.

The fire has been downsized as a result of a more accurate measurement. The new size is 275 acres, which is about what it was on Friday.

Firefighters had to move quickly on one event on the line today, but were able to suppress the fire extension with a dozer, a hose lay and hand crews. Forestry has now ordered a total of 6 crews for this fire. Firefighters continue to make good progress on containing the fire, reaching 45% containment today, meaning that 45% of the line is built.

The lower relative humidity and high wind speeds have made it difficult to control the fire. However the fire has not made any significant growth in this burn period.

Fire weather for tomorrow is continued high winds, lower humidity and red flag warnings. This will make for another difficult day for the firefighters tomorrow.

Fairbanks Daily News Miner story >>

Photo of the Day - June 9

Taken on May 30 on Fort Greely. Mama and twin calves. Photo Courtesy Brady Stewart

Jarvis Creek Fire Update 8 PM Friday

At 8 PM this evening, Delta Forestry reports that the fire is still in the 400 acre size range, but more precise estimates should be available late Friday evening. There is some risk to structures tomorrow.

There are now three crews on the fire, and one crew and two engines have been sent to fight a 2-3 acre fire in the Tenderfoot area that started with a power line break.

Fire weather tomorrow is again expected to be extreme, with gusts 30 to 40 mph with a relative humidity of less than 30%. Winds are expected to remain high through Sunday, with a chance of rain on Tuesday.

The Fairbanks Daily News Miner reported that a possible propane tank explosion may have been the ignition source for the fire.

Two engines from Copper River, and four Delta area volunteer fire department engines remain on the fire, along with two dozers.

A fire reported on Berm Road was reported under control, and a grass fire on the Ag Project is also now under control.

Jarvis Creek Fire Update 3 PM Friday

The Jarvis Creek Fire continues to grow because of strong southerly winds. There are two tongues at the head of the fire that firefighters have not been able to control.

Red flag high wind warnings continue in effect through 10 PM tomorrow. Firefighting efforts have been hampered today by strong winds with gusts over 50 MPH.

Four crews (Delta #2, Selawik, Tok and Galena) are attacking the fire, and engine crews from Forestry and local volunteer fire departments are on working alongside. The Alaska Interagency Coordination Center Situation Report indicates that two additional crews have been ordered.

The helicopter brought in from Tok has been released because of increased fire danger there. The Delta helicopter has been in service on the Parks Highway fire, and is being returned here.

Blood Brothers - By George Hosier II

The Alaska State Birds seem to be extra friendly around my house this year. Cute little fellows, aren’t they—and so musical too? At least once a day I can’t resist being a captive audience to one of their concerts. It fascinates me how tame they are. You’d think that as wild creatures, they’d be shy of people, but they seem to crave human companionship.

As soon as I step outside, a whole choir of them gathers to greet me with a falset to serenade like a million little flying Vienna Choir Boys with wedgies. Some of them hover around my head, while others perch on my upper body. I haven’t quite figured out which sections of my anatomy are the soprano, tenor, alto and bass sections, but they evidently have it well choreographed. It’s enough to give a guy goose pimples.

To read the entire article, we invite you to read our Chinook pages.

Friendly Frontier Days Photos

Friendly Frontier Days took place on May 27 and 28. There were many activities. Today we are featuring the pig kissing contest. We would like to thank Brenda Peterson for submitting your photos.

For more text and photo enlargements, please visit our family photo album.

The kissing the pig winners (or losers)

Courtney Durham in action

Pablo safe kissing

Chase puckering up

Powwow and Polynesian Dancers - Coming to Delta

Endorsed by the Delta Ministerial Association . 4 to 6 PM - June 18. Alaska Kellys Country Inn Front Lawn (Downtown Main Street - Next to Texaco)

Featuring:
Thunder Hawk Drum Group (Salcha, AK) Full Blooded Plains Indian Dancers (Flown In From Oklahoma) *Lakota, Pawnee, Kiowa, Cheyenne, Seminole, Arapaho, Choctaw * Polynesian Dancers!!! Featuring the Dangerous Samoan Fire Knife Dance by professional Dancers from Hawaii

Richard Twiss, Lakota and his wife Kathryn & 17 year old son Daniel will be performing along with the following Oklahoma based team. Richard was at Wounded Knee in 1973 as an angry rebel native during the firefight standoff with federal agents.

A mission team from the lower 48 made up of mainly Native Americans is coming to Fairbanks/Delta/Tok. This team is making it's 5th trip to this area. The main effort has been in the Tok/Tannacross/Northway areas. A native dance gospel effort is one of their outreaches and this team will be performing and presenting the gospel in North Pole & Delta Junction.

The directors of Island Breeze Hawaii will be dancing & ministering. They are bringing a youth group to minister. Professional dancers will perform the dangerous Samoan Fire Knife Dance. The directors support their ministry by dancing & performing for Luaus in Hawaii.

Time To Donate

The Blood Bank of Alaska-Fairbanks will be in Delta June 28 and 29 to collect donations. They will be at the Community Center June 28 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm and June 29 from 10:00am to 2:00pm. This month’s drive will be sponsored by the Forget-Me-Knot Quilter’s Guild

Everyone is welcome to donate. The Blood Bank needs to collect about 300 units of blood a month to supply the Fairbanks and surrounding communities for lifesaving procedures. There is no substitute for human blood. It cannot be manufactured or harvested. One blood donation can help three patients. You can donate a unit of blood every 56 days. That means that you can save 18 lives a year by donating on a regular basis! By the age of 72, nearly 95% of the population will need blood or a blood product. The only way we can collect the blood we need is through human donors like you.

Before coming to donate, you should eat a good meal and drink lots of fluids. When you arrive, a screener will conduct a short interview and you will receive a brief physical. If all medical conditions are met, a unit of blood will be collected. (Approx. 1 pint) Afterwards, the Forget-Me-Knot Quilters will serve refreshments. The whole process takes less than an hour.

If you prefer a particular time for an appointment, please call Toni Lee at 895-4159 to schedule. Walk-ins are accepted as time permits.

If you were deferred on a previous blood drive, don’t let that stop you from trying again. Conditions change and you may, now, be eligible to donate. 16 and 17 year olds can donate with written parental consent. (Call Toni Lee for consent forms)

Delta has been very involved with the local blood drives. The blood drive in December collected 24 units and saved 72 lives. The Youth Court sponsored a drive in March. 26 units of blood were collected and saved 78 lives. Delta Junction has saved over 150 Alaskan lives in less than 6 months!

Remember, Alaska depends on its own people for blood donations. In Alaska, fewer than 5% of the eligible donors give blood. The Red Cross cannot send blood here in a timely manner. We need your help. Give the gift of life.

Former Delta Resident Killed in Tragic Accident

Mr. Phil Roe, 54, of Kenny Lake, was fatally injured during a single vehicle accident near Miers Lake, on Tuesday, June 6th. The Roe family spent some time living in the Delta area a few years ago.

Viewing will be 6 - 9 PM Friday, June 9th, at Kenny Lake Community Chapel, Mile 9.2 of the Edgerton Highway.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, June 10th, at the Kenny Lake School, Mile 5 of the Edgerton Highway.

Visitation and lunch will follow at the Chapel.

Photo of the Day - June 8

Punxsutawney Phil??? No, it’s just Salcha Sally. I was glad to get this photo of a woodchuck near Salcha. I have seen woodchucks near Quartz Lake road for the past five years and endured the heckling from my friends, suggesting maybe a hoary marmot, but definitely not a woodchuck. *I win.* The woodchuck, (groundhog, whistle pig) is much bigger than the parka squirrel that habitats this area, they are perhaps the size of a football or larger. Keep a watchful eye on your way to Fairbanks between Salcha and Eielson. See what the Department of Fish and Game has to say about these immigrants from the east.

Photo Courtesy Marlin Dunklebarger

Delta Area Fire Update 8:00 AM Friday

The Jarvis Creek Fire south of Delta Junction remains at 400 acres this morning, according to an update from the Division of Forestry at 8:00 AM, but officials are expecting a difficult day with high winds in the forecast. 35 foot flame lengths were observed yesterday, but the fire made no overnight size gains.

The National Weather Service is predicting sustained winds above 30 MPH from the southeast, and officials expect difficulty keeping the fire from spreading further. Four Type II crews are on the fire along with four engines, and volunteer fire department tenders. Fire fighters are using a helicopter from Tok, and two other helicopters are expected to join the team today.

Forestry personnel are watching two other fires in the Delta area, one at Tanana Loop Rd, on Main Street and Berm Road area. It is approximately three acres in size, and is contained but not out. Another fire is burning on the Ag Project at 220 acres. It is currently under control.

Fire growing south of Delta Thursday 4 PM

Delta State Forestry crews have been aggressively battling a 350+ acre wildfire south of Delta since late morning today, according to DNR personnel in Delta Junction. The fire started east of approximately mile 253 Richardson Highway, about 12 miles south of Delta.

The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reported Al Edgren saying that the fire started near a residence, but officials do not know its origin.

At this writing the fire was reported to be more than a mile long and ¼ mile wide. Four Type II fire crews have been ordered.

The National Weather Service in Fairbanks has a Red Flag warning for high winds during the daylight hours on Thursday and Friday, with windy and low humidity conditions potentially existing through the weekend.

Retardant bombers are working the fire, and have slowed its western flank. Dozers are also on the scene.

We will provide additional information as it becomes available.

Photo Looking Towards Fort Greely

This photo was taken this morning about 11:30 from Clearwater Road looking towards Fort Greely. Something is burning in the distance. Photo Courtesy Mike Nuckols

Photo of the Day - June 7

"Around lunchtime on May 31, a truck in the ditch stops traffic at the post office driveway onto the Richardson Highway. The truck was stuck for only a few minutes, Jack's Service was quick to dislodge the vehicle. Some culvert markers might have avoided this accident." The photo has been edited, so the driver nor the exact model of the truck would be identifiable.
Photo Courtesy Sebastian Saarloos

Lack of bids on sale of Palmer slaughterhouse raises farmer's concerns

Although this article focuses more on farming in south central Alaska, some aspects may raise concerns of Delta's farmers.

[This is the first part of the Anchorage Daily News article.]

WASILLA -- Nobody had bid on the state-owned slaughterhouse in Palmer with only a few days remaining before the Friday deadline.

But state Agriculture Division Director Larry DeVilbiss said he's optimistic someone will try to buy the Mt. McKinley Meat and Sausage Co. plant. As of Monday, DeVilbiss had received no bids, but he said he has talked to three potential bidders, all based in Alaska. All are interested in continuing to operate the facility as a slaughterhouse, he said.

"I can tell you that we don't have anything in the safe," he said. "(But) I'm hopeful."

Farmers were less optimistic, noting past attempts have failed to attract much interest in the state-run plant.

"We're concerned, and rightfully so," said Earl Clabo, a Valley-based farm equipment salesman and member of the Alaska Farmers Union.

The sale has highlighted an ongoing riff between some farmers and state agriculture officials.

[more- Anchorage Daily News]

Layoffs stun workers at Fort Greely

Wednesday, June 07, 2006 - More than 100 civilian contract workers at Fort Greely lost their jobs Friday in a round of layoffs that many workers said caught them by surprise.

Victor Maxwell, a 44-year-old heavy-truck driver from Delta Junction, said he heard rumors of lay-offs before Friday but had no official notice until then.

"We were all completely dumbfounded," he said Tuesday.

The workers were employed by Chugach Alutiiq, a joint venture of two Alaska Native companies that is one of Fort Greely's two major contractors.

According to Fort Greely public affairs officer Leslie Ozawa, the garrison was recently directed to "restrict spending on noncritical activities."

Nearly 50 Chugach Alutiiq workers were laid off last month.

Last week, the company informed the Department of Labor and Workforce Development that it was laying off 102 additional workers, according to agency representative Joyce Harris.

The chief executive of Chugach Alaska Corp., Barney Uhart, did not immediately return a phone call Tuesday seeking comment.

At a Department of Labor workshop held Tuesday in Delta for the laid-off workers, former employees said the job cuts happened with almost no notice.

Bruce Grossmann, who worked as the education counselor on Fort Greely, said he was told at 1:15 p.m. Friday to attend a meeting at 1:30. At that meeting, he was laid off and told to turn in his keys and badge.

"It was very short notice," he said. "It was 15 minutes for some of us."

[more- Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

Avian Flu - Pandemic Flu Community Presentation

Dear Community Partner,

The Delta Public Health Center would like to invite you to attend a community presentation on avian and pandemic influenza on Tuesday, June 27th, 6:00 pm at the Community Center.

The State of Alaska/Public Health is working hard to help communities become prepared for any potential disaster or disease outbreak. Part of being prepared is to be informed. Chris Dubois, a nurse consultant from the Fairbanks Regional Public Health Center, will present information that will help our community understand avian flu and pandemic flu and get us thinking about how we can be prepared as individuals and communities.

A pandemic occurs when there is a major change in the genetic make up of a virus. This results in a new strain of virus to which people have not been previously exposed and therefore they are more susceptible to serious illness. Three influenza pandemics occurred in the 20th century – in 1918, 1956 and 1968.

The current avian flu, Asian H5N1, has not been found in any wild or farm-raised birds in America, has not been identified as being passed human to human, and has not been identified as causing a pandemic flu at this time.

No one knows for sure when the next pandemic may strike, or whether it will be related to the current Asian H5N1 strain of avian flu. We still need to plan and prepare for the potential that this could change. Your involvement in the community meeting is just the start for individual and community preparedness.

We invite you to join us and begin the process of developing a plan for pandemic flu. Please feel free to invite family and friends to this presentation.
For more information call Janice or Rachelle at the Delta Public Health Center at 895-4292.

Sincerely,
Janice Templin-Weller, PHN
Rachelle Hill, PHN


Avian Flu / Pandemic Flu Community Presentation
Tuesday, June 27th
6:00 pm at the Community Center

Photo of the Day - June 6

Rainbows taken out of my office window, May 22nd at 10:30pm These rainbows hung around for a long time. Simply beautiful. Photo Courtesy Candy Corty

Chitna dippnetting open this weekend

Dermot Cole's Daily News-Miner column often has many nice news tidbits. These news tidbits should make many Delta fisher folk happy.

LOTSA FISH: The preseason projection for Copper River salmon passing the Miles Lake sonar from May 29 to June 4 was just under 100,000. The number actually counted was 289,698, so the fishing should be good.

The Chitina personal use dipnet fishery is to open Friday at 12:01 p.m. and continue until 8 p.m. Sunday. The fishery will be closed for four hours and reopen next week from Monday at 12:01 a.m. to the following Sunday night. A supplemental harvest of 10 sockeye will be allowed during the opening next week.

Farmers worried with 18 degrees and ice in puddles

This article focuses on Fairbanks. However if you read near the bottom you'll find a few words about Delta's farmers.

Read Fatal frost by Tim Mowry in Fairbanks Daily News-Miner.

Pogo celebrates grand opening

Tuesday, June 06, 2006 - DELTA JUNCTION--Gov. Frank Murkowski was one of approximately 100 guests who joined owners of the Pogo gold mine Monday to celebrate the mine's official opening.

At a luncheon and ceremony inside a large industrial building in the mine's camp, Murkowski commended the owners and said that the development of the state's natural resources, including minerals, oil and gas, fish and tourism, was critical for building a strong state economy. [read Stefan Milkowski's full News-Miner article]

Hunger Awareness Day in Delta

Today, Tuesday, June 6 is National Hunger Awareness Day, and has been proclaimed Hunger Awareness Day in Delta Junction by the City Council.

Alpha Omega Life Care of Delta has hunger abatement as a program goal and brings three tons of food to the community each month to distribute to qualified recipients. Food Bank of Alaska and partners like Alpha Omega are providing food to approximately 1 in 8 Alaskans.

Read the entire Council proclamation >>>

Encyclopaedia Britannica's Guide to Normandy 1944

On June 6, 1944, a date known ever since as D-Day, a mighty armada crossed a narrow strip of sea from England to Normandy, France, and cracked the Nazi grip on western Europe.

Encyclopædia Britannica tells the story of the Normandy Invasion through the spoken recollections of veterans who fought it, the newsreels that brought the news home, and the written words of historians who have dedicated years to studying the great campaign.

Family Photos - June 6

For more text and photo enlargements, please visit our family photo album.

Steve DuBois shows the rewards of good moose and lawn management

To celebrate Memorial Day with WWII Navy veterans and long-time Delta residents Carl and Marge Bandy, Kenna DuBois gives them a flag cake.

Here are three extremely exhausted Delta Junction men, (Steve, Don and Jason) who have spent the last two weeks installing wireless equipment on towers at the APM Port Terminal in Kingston & Montego Bay, Jamaica.

DFGS School Board Meeting Minutes Posted

Approved MinutesDelta/Greely School Board Business Meeting, Thursday, May 4, 2006

Approved MinutesDelta/Greely School Board Special Business Meeting May 18, 2006

For more information about our schools please visit the Delta Greely School District

Photo of the Day - June 5

Fall colors in the Alaska Range from last year. This view is from up on the slopes of the Army’s Black Rapids Training Site. Photo courtesy Ellen Clark.

Interior's fire season off to a slow start

After two record-setting fire years, Alaska's 2006 fire season is off to a slow start, especially in the Interior.

"We're well below normal as far as fire activity goes," said Maggie Rogers, spokesperson for the Alaska Fire Service in Fairbanks.

Through Friday, a total of 135 fires had been reported throughout the state, and only 32 of those were in the Fairbanks and Delta areas. The total acreage burned so far is 2,516, which is well below the 10-year average of 84,000 acres by June 1, said Rogers. Last year, 172 fires had been reported by June 1 and they burned 19,150 acres. [read Tim Mowry's full article in Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

[Note: The latest Alaska Interagency Coordination Center (AICC) Situation Report dated Monday, 06/05/2006, 07:13 ADT has slightly different figures. Delta area had 10 fires that burned 104.2 acres. Fairbanks area had 24 fires and 8.7 acres. This AICC report is available as a pdf download from the Alaska Fire Service online New Room]

The Delta Regional Economic Development Council Has Two Immediate Openings

The Delta Regional Economic Development Council (DREDC) has immediate openings for two At-Large Seats: Seat L - Marketing / Public Relations and Seat M - Regional Planning.

If you are interested in participating on this volunteer council please contact City Hall for an application.

The DREDC meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Conference Room.

For more information contact Paul Knopp, Pres. at 895-4150.
City's website

Photo of the Day - June 3

A look at Delta's past. Looking back at some of Delta's history. We have received several pictures that were taken by Charlie Boyd back in the 1950's thru 1960's. The DNW will be using these photos in the next couple of weeks.

The picture of the fish house is of either Clearwater Lake or of PaxsonLake also known as Huffman Lake. Photo Courtesy Dave Davenport

Hugh's big fish isn't a money winner but it's nice

On May 23, Hugh Wingfield, Delta Junction, caught a big halibut while fishing aboard the Dawn Treader. Hugh's 117 lb fish placed him 3rd in the Valdez Halibut Derby as noted in Anchorage Daily News' Outdoor Hot Line column.

That was as of May 29, but the latest report on Valdez Fish Derbys' Web site indicates that Hugh's catch is 4th or lower.

As of 5/311/06, overall leaders were:
(click links to see fish fotos in a new window)
1st 195.0 on 5/31 Rich Piech of North Pole
2nd 133.8 on 5/24 Bill Langley of Fairbanks
3rd 118.2 Chad Greenway on 5/24 of Fairbanks.

Tough luck Hugh. You haven't caught the reel big one yet in this derby. But still, that's some nice Alaskan fish eatin' for folks at Delta's Alaska 7 Motel. (You are going to share aren't you?)

If other fisher folk in Delta are having similar derby successes in Alaskan waters (salt or fresh), please send your fish fotos and fish tails to Delta News Web.

Ben Grossmann Film

For the last several years the Grossmann family has been the last to leave the theatre when they attended movies that their son Ben was been involved in making. Ben works in Visual Special Effects in the film industry so he and his fellow artists are about the last folks to handle a film before it is released for public viewing. They call it post-production. Consequently his name is listed in the credits close to the end … but not this time.

May 23rd Hollow Man 2 was released straight to DVD. This time Ben Grossmann appears in the very beginning credits and is even on the box and DVD cover. On Hollow Man 2 Ben’s job is “The” Visual Effects Supervisor. The movie depicts Seattle, but was actually shot in Vancouver, Canada. Ben worked with director Claudio Faeh. They have worked together previously on “Coronado,” and several Spanish commercials.

The most exciting part of the whole project for the family is that Ben is also prominently featured in the “Inside Hollow Man 2” Featurette. ‘The family was watching the movie in the living room and from the kitchen I heard Ben’s voice talking. It was almost like having him in the room,” says Dawn, Ben’s mom. “I would say he has a good 5-10 minutes worth of interviews on there and he looks comfortable in the role.”

This is a huge step up for Ben who has worked on nearly 20 feature films and commercials since making the jump from Fairbanks to Hollywood. His credits have included compositor, VFX compositor, supervising compositor, and on-set VFX supervisor. This film brings him to the level of being the Visual Effects Supervisor for the entire film working closely with the director, producers and Sony Pictures.

Hollow Man 2 is also significant in that Ben’s own company One Hour VFX in Venice, California worked on the film also. Sarah, his sister works closely with him in One Hour VFX. So the family still has to wait until the end of the credits. This time they are watching for Sarah’s name to scroll by at the end of the movie.

Ben and Sarah have always wanted to work together in the visual effects arena. Sarah worked on the TV mini- series “The Triangle” and Ben helped on that one as well. Hollow Man 2 is their second project together and probably not their last. Both Ben and Sarah grew up in Delta and made their way north to work in Fairbanks before making the move to Southern California. For more information about any of Ben's projects check out the website and click on his name.

A picture from the set of Hollow Man 2 of Ben's chair next to Christian Slater's. The woman is Laura Regan the female lead in the movie. Photo and article Courtesy of Dawn Grossmann

Photo of the Day - June 2

A look at Delta's past. Looking back at some of Delta's history. We have received several pictures that were taken by Charlie Boyd back in the 1950's thru 1960's. The DNW will be using these photos in the next couple of weeks.

Charlie Boyds' dog team when he was in the Army at Allen Army Airfield, 1947, it may have been called Big Delta back then. Charlie, and Jesse Taylor were dog trainers for the Army, when they used dogs to travel the north country, the dogs were U.S. Army War dogs and after Charlie and Jesse got outof the service they were allowed to keep there dogs.
Photo Courtesy Dave Davenport

Sports: More on end of Huskies incredible softball season

ANCHORAGE--When the dust cleared and the final out was made after the first day of the Alaska School Activities Association State Small School Softball Championship, only one team remained from the Mid Alaska Conference.

Monroe Catholic, after dropping its first game to Kodiak 6-4, bounced back and defeated conference rival Delta Junction 6-4 in the first round of the losers' bracket at Cartee Complex to keep its season alive.

The Rams advance to play Ketchikan, which eliminated Eielson 11-5, at 9 a.m. today in the second-round of the losers' bracket.

"It feels good to knock off the conference champion," said a joyful Monroe coach Bea Merino. "I knew we could do it. It's good to capitalize on their loss and our rest. The girls wanted to play and they did it nicely."

Monroe (6-9) had to wait nearly six hours after their opening-round loss to Kodiak to take the field again. However, Delta Junction, after losing its first game to Homer 14-0, had a mere 30-minute break in between games.

This ends Delta's (9-7) incredible season, in which it qualified for the state tournament for the first-time since 1999.

"This was a great season," said a teary-eyed Delta coach Regina Pelto. "Sometimes stuff happens, but the girls didn't give up. They gave the team hope all the way to the end."

The win was even sweeter for Monroe considering it had dropped its previous three regular season meetings against the Huskies.

It was just one-week ago that Delta pitcher Lana Green flirted with a no-hitter against Monroe. The Rams made sure that wouldn't happen this time by collecting nine hits off the senior hurler. Senior Jennifer Ribar, junior Judi Stalter and sophomores Amy Helmbrecht and Jessica DeBano each tallied two hits.

Delta's only lead of the game came in the first inning, before Monroe added two to take the lead for good. [more- Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

Army cuts spur Fort Greely layoffs

Saturday, June 03, 2006 - WASHINGTON--Army budget tightening has cost at least 50 civilian contract workers at Fort Greely their jobs, and another 160 positions may soon disappear.

Before the cost-cutting, the Army estimated that Fort Greely had about 1,000 civilian employees, including contract workers.

In a statement Friday, the Army said it is working with its two major contractors at Fort Greely--Kaya Associates and Chugach Alutiiq--to make sure the health and safety of people on post "are not compromised." [more-Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

Sports: Delta girls lose 14-0, 6-4

Delta girls softball team faced a tough Friday in the state's small-school tournament down in Anchorage.

In their first game they lost to a tough Homer Mariner team 14-0. Then in the losers bracket, the Huskies lost a closer game to Monroe Catholic. [For other results in Friday's games read the full article in Anchorage Daily News]

Rep. Harris now has 3 challengers: Sutton, Johnson, Cottle

District 12 incumbent John Harris is now challenged by a Republican and two Democrats. Previously, as noted in an earlier DNW post, "Rep. Harris to face opponent in fall primary", that opponent was Republican Mike Pearson of Sutton.

Later Thursday, Democrats Bill Johnson of Delta Junction and Valdez Mayor Bert Cottle joined against Republican incumbent Harris.

Read more about these and other "Last-minute filers enter House, Senate races", in Friday's Daily News-Miner.

Ninth interceptor installed at Fort Greely

Friday, June 02, 2006 - WASHINGTON--Fort Greely has a ninth interceptor in its national missile defense arsenal, and silos at the base will be retrofitted to address a mechanical problem experienced elsewhere.

The Missile Defense Agency said after installation of the eighth interceptor at Fort Greely late last year that it would no longer announce additions to the line-up, for strategic reasons.

However, its main missile defense contractor, The Boeing Co., said in a May 10 news release that Fort Greely now has nine interceptors in place at the post 100 miles southeast of Fairbanks.

Missile Defense Agency spokesman Rick Lehner confirmed the number Thursday. He said he was uncertain when the ninth interceptor arrived. A spokesman for Boeing could not be reached Thursday. [more-Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

Sports: Interior teams primed for state tourney run

The Mid Alaska Conference will be well represented when the Alaska School Activities Association Small School State Softball Tournament gets under way today at the Cartee Complex in Anchorage.

That's because half of the teams in the six-team tournament are from the MAC, as champion Delta Junction, runner-up Monroe Catholic and third-place Eielson all will be trying to bring the championship trophy back to the Interior.

That's something that has never happened at any level in the history of the state tournament. [more-Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

Delta, Army reach agreement

Delta Junction and the U.S. Army have chosen negotiation instead of litigation.

City and Army officials finalized a memorandum of agreement with a ceremonial signing on Memorial Day. The compromise outlines specific terms agreed to by the Army in return for the city to forgo litigation to delay construction of the Army's proposed ranges in the Donnelly Training area.

Maj. Gen. Charles H. Jacoby Jr., commander of U.S. Army Alaska, and city officials formally signed off on a plan, originally signed on May 16, for the Army to provide specific fire and flood efforts for the area. [more-Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

Photo of the Day - June 1

Moose seen north of Delta before Shaw Creek. Photo Courtesy Dale Pelzer

Rep. Harris to face opponent in fall primary

In District 12, Republican Rep. John Harris of Valdez, will face Mike Pearson of Sutton in the primary. [more - Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

DJ MX - (Delta Junction Motocross)

Dear Community,

We have begun the process of creating a motocross track right here in Delta Junction. We are seeking support in the form of machinery, material, products and work in the following areas. Should you as an individual, your business or organization be able to assist please feel free to contact the individuals above. We are looking for prices along with donations when possible. Thank you in advance for helping to make Delta Junction a fun place to live.

Tree removal
Dirt
Track Construction
Viewing Tower
Bleachers
Power/Electricity
Well
Grooming Equipment (Bobcat, rakes, shovels)
Concrete Culvert (for boundary, large jumps)
Used Tires

Contacts:
Scottie Brown
PO Box 31193
Fort Greely, AK 99731
907-869-3213 (H)
djmxalaska@hotmail.com or
Brandon Rider Cell: 388-2338

Sports: Delta's Lana Green in control

Thursday, June 01, 2006 - Delta Junction senior Lana Green will no longer be a hidden gem when she takes the mound this weekend at the Cartee Complex in Anchorage.

At the Alaska Schools Activities Association Small School State Softball Tournament, players from other parts of Alaska get to experience the Huskies senior's overpowering or baffling deliveries which batters in the Interior have been accustomed for four years.

"She pretty much hits her spots, and that's what a good pitcher does," said Monroe Catholic senior pitcher/third baseman Jennifer Ribar.

When Delta Junction opens tournament play at 2 p.m. Friday, Green will finally get to experience a state tournament after watching it for the last three years at the Hez Ray Softball Complex in Fairbanks.

"It's really nice to go and not to just watch. It's going to be a lot of fun," Green said last Friday after pitching a two-hitter and striking out eight in a 6-2 win over Monroe at the Interior Girls Softball Fields, clinching the Mid Alaska Conference title and a 6-0 league record for the Huskies.

Character-wise, Green tends to be a nice person. She was also Delta Junction's student body president this past school year.

"What's probably impressed me the most about Lana," said Delta Junction head coach Regina Pelto, "is her patience with teammates. She respects everyone pretty well and she doesn't mind being a good role model. She loves to play and she works very hard." [more - Fairbanks Daily News-Miner]

Photo of the Day - May 31

On May 22, at the corner of Souhrada Rd. and Nistler Rd., between 10-11pm there was a heavy downpour, double rainbow that lasted for 40 minutes, the sun giving the land a golden glow. Photo Courtesy Dave Noble