Annual 4th of July Celebration - Schedule of Events

11:00 a.m. Event Kickoff with the Fort Greely Color Guard
Game Contest sign up
11:30 a.m. Music by DJ Carson
11:30 a.m. - Noon Lumber Jack practice open to everyone 18 & older
Noon - ? Talent share
12:45 p.m. Dessert Walk
1 p.m. - ? Lumber Jack competitions open to everyone 18 & older
1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Games and contests begin in the following order (open to all ages)

• Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest
• US Trivia (state i.d., important dates & people, etc.
• Hula hoop contest
• Tug-o-war
• Water balloon toss
• Egg Race
• Bubble gum blowing contest

2 p.m. - ? Giant inflatable obstacle course open
2:30 p.m. Bashing of pinatas (12 and under)
3:30 p.m. Hairy Leg Contest

All Day

• Food and drink concessions
• Farmer's Market
• Rozzo the Clown
• Kids Coloring Table

Located behind the Sullivan Roadhouse

Delta Football Association

There will be a meeting of the Delta Football Association at the community center on Tuesday, July 10 starting at 5:30 p.m. Both the Delta High School Football and Football Cheer are out-sourced programs. The purpose of the meeting will be to establish the framework for a football association that will provide support for football programs in the Delta community. This association is open to parents of athletes and cheerleaders as well as business members and community members who would like to contribute to the continued success of these programs.

For more information please contact Ed or Becky at 895-5495.

Photo of the day - June 29

Roses in full bloom! They were beautiful this summer. Photo Courtesy Lisa Stossmeister

Carefree Gourmet by Joyce McCombs - Sourdough Sensations

Enjoy the sourdough recipes this month submitted by our very own Carefree Gourmet cook, who also celebrated her birthday on June 25.

Sourdough Applesauce Cake
Ingredients:
1 cup Sourdough starter
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup dry skim milk
1 cup applesauce
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
2 teaspoons soda
1 egg, beaten

Preheat oven to 350 and grease and lightly flour an 8 inch square cake pan. Combine starter, milk, flour, and applesauce, and let stand in a covered bowl in a warm place. Cream the sugars and butter together until light. Add the beaten egg and mix well. Add spices. Add a half cup of raisins or chopped nuts, if desired, or a mixture of the two. Beat until well mixed and no lumps remain. Bake at 350 for 35 to 45 minutes. Test for doneness with a knife when half an hour is up. Allow to cool completely before slicing.

Carefree Gourmet by Joyce McCombs - Kitty Treats

This winter McCombs Manor hosted a temporary resident for about three months. Miss Sassy was a beautiful tiger striped, golden eyed, long haired cat with a peaceful disposition and affectionate nature. We offered to care for her while her “parents” were Outside, and I don’t think I’ve ever fallen in four footed love so fast in my life.

It only took about two days to figure out the Sassy’s routine, which we soon realized couldn’t vary much, especially dinner time, or we’d hear about it. She was a very vocal cat, and liked to remind us often how intelligent and clever she was, especially when she was staring intently out the sliding glass door, a routine we began to call Sassy’s Bunny Vision. We quickly learned the difference between her contented chirps and demanding meows and soft pleas for more back scratches. She never fussed when we left the house, but when we returned, there was at least an hour of penance to pay in the form of lap time cuddles and furry faced commentary.

To read the entire article and test some new recipes, we invite you to browse through the Carefree Gourmet.

Photo of the day - June 28

Don't let anyone tell you that the Alaskan Mosquito is not large. This one was seen on Remington Road. Photo courtesy Barbara Tharp

The City Administrator's Opening has been Filled

After careful consideration of a number of qualified applicants, Mayor Leith-Dowling has chosen local resident, Mike Tvenge, to be the new City Administrator upon Pete Hallgren’s retirement on July 13, 2007.

Mike has been a Delta resident for many years and has demonstrated a strong commitment to our area and the City. He has served on the City Council for the last two years. He has tendered his resignation from the City Council and as President of the Delta Skating Association.

Mike will begin his City Administrator duties on July 5, 2007.

3rd Annual PowWow to be Held at Kelly's Country Inn

Click on the poster for an enlargement. This is a free event. If you have never attended this event in the last two years, it's something you will always remember.

Attractive and Safe Food Preservation Exhibits

There’s nothing to compare with rows of home canned goods on the shelf. Preserving the season’s bounty is an aim many people strive for.

For all food preservation products, it is important to follow recommended processing procedures for a top quality product that is safe and wholesome for your family. Check with the Cooperative Extension Service for the latest USDA publications that give recommended procedure. It is important that you have not only an attractive exhibit, but one that is safe.

Jars - All canned products should be packed in clean, clear, standard size canning jars (jars and lids manufactured for home canning). Jars should be perfectly sealed with standard, two piece lids that are free from rust or other deterioration.

Labels – Jars should be clean and labeled with the following information: name of product, date processed, type of pack, method used, time of processing, pounds of pressure (if appropriate), and name of exhibitor. All exhibits must be in standard containers in the size recommend for each product. Low acid exhibits are not opened for judging.

In judging canned products, three factors should be considered: the product, the liquid, and the pack of the product.

For more information on canned good for exhibit stop by the CES office located in the Jarvis Office Center to purchase publication FNH-00261 Attractive and Safe Food Preservation Exhibits.

With the Deltana Fair coming up it’s never too early to start thinking about getting products ready for exhibit.

Vegetables – Selection and Preparation For Display

Vegetables are an important part of Alaska’s fairs. Experience in selecting and exhibiting vegetables will help you gain know-how and to achieve success with these products. Now is the time to start thinking about what vegetables you will be exhibiting at the fairs.

Good exhibits attract attention and stimulate interest in Alaska grown vegetables. The exhibit is a demonstration of achievement.

Remember-The judge must place your vegetables as they are when he sees them. Because of the long distances encountered in Alaska, and the time involved, the vegetables you select may look much different when they are judged. The judge can only place your exhibit according to its condition. In addition to producing a good product, an exhibitor must know how to select a “show” sample, how to prepare the sample, and how to show it to its best advantage.

General Rules:
1. Read the show rules carefully.
2. Follow the rules. If the exhibit calls for six specimens, do not enter five or seven. (It is best to take a least once extra specimen with you as a replacement in case of damage or loss.)
3. Decide ahead of time what you can exhibit.
4. If possible, get the perishable vegetables ready the same day the fair opens. The fresher they are, the better they will stand up before exhibit time will insure freshness.
5. Carry exhibits to the fair in a way that will protect them from bruises and preserve their garden freshness. Wrap tomatoes separately in paper and pack them loosely in a box which has excelsior or crumpled paper on the bottom. Wrap vegetables in wet burlap bags and keep them moist.
6. Be on time in making your entry. Leave home in plenty time, so that any short delay will not make you late.

It is important to select vegetables for show that are uniform in size, shape, and color, and are free from insect, disease, or mechanical injury.

To get detailed information on preparation, uniformity, quality and condition, size and quantity. Plus detailed information on a variety of vegetables for display stop by the Delta CES office to pick up a copy of “Vegetables – Selection and Preparation For Display” ($1.00). This publication will help you do a better job of selecting and exhibiting vegetables.

Wild Berries and Berry Picking

When people in Alaska have been asked why they pick berries, the answers cover a wide range of reasons. Some of the reasons are: family fun, family tradition, commune with nature, berries are there, to make jellies and jams, and subsistence. Regardless of the reasons, the berry picking season is viewed with great anticipation by many Alaskans.Here are some tips for picking, transporting, and storing the berries that will lead to finer quality berries and berry products once the cooking and eating stages are reached.

• Take along extra berry buckets so single buckets aren’t overfilled. If buckets become overfilled, the weight of the berries will crush those near the bottom of the bucket making them harder to clean causing loss of berries and juice.

• While picking berries, include some slightly under ripe berries in the bucket. Under ripe berries contain more pectin and will help ensure that jams, jellies, and other jellied products thicken properly.

• Place filled berry buckets in a cooler in the trunk of the car, or place the berry buckets on the floor of the back seat of the car so they stay cool on the trip. Place a tight fitting lid on the buckets to avoid spills.

• At home, leave the berries in the cooler or place them in the refrigerator until they can be cleaned and prepared for long term-storage.

• Berries should be cleaned as soon as possible. They do not need to be washed unless they have been picked near a road or populated area. Experienced berry pickers recommend rolling berries down a towel-covered board to remove leaves and debris. Some berries, such as rose hips, require further preparation to remove stem and blossom ends. If you decide to wash the berries, wash 1 to 2 quarts at a time and drain. Berries do not need to be soaked for general cleaning.

• Fresh, cleaned berries should be used within a few days or preserved for long-term storage. The choice of preservation methods is determined by the planned use of the berries; the methods include freezing, drying, canning, and preserving as jellied products.

• Freeze berries and preserve them the same day of harvest for best quality. Select berries with fresh sweet flavor, deep colors, and firm textures; ones at peak maturity for eating fresh.

A common problem faced by berry pickers is berry stains on hands and clothing. To remove berry stains from hands, rub hands with lemon juice and rinse thoroughly. To remove berry stains from clothing, promptly soak berry-stained clothing in cool water for at least 30 minutes or overnight. If stains remain in clothing after soaking, try one of the following methods: 1) work undiluted detergent into the stain and rinse, then launder as usual; or 2) if appropriate for the fabric, stretch the stained area over a bowl and pour boiling water from a height of 1 to 3 feed through the stain, then work undiluted detergent into any remaining stain, rinse, and launder as usual.To find out more details on uses for wild berries, individual berries, and recipes contact the CES office located in room 114/115 of the Jarvis Office Center, or call 895-4215.

Local Softball Team Group Photo

Cummings Sawmill. Check the Delta News Web calendar for more mens softball games schedules. Click on photo for enlargement. Photo Courtesy Sarah Jepsen

Losing Streak May be Over for the Logging & Milling Team

The Logging & Milling softball team won their first game Monday night, edging the Napa team. It was a low scoring game, a pitcher's duel, with excellent defense on the part of both teams.

Cummings Sawmill beat Logging & Milling in the first game of the double header 8-6.

"I believe the first game with Cummings was the best game we've played all year," said pitcher Tommy Geyer. "Our outfield played very well in both games. I don't think we dropped anything that was catch able, which is something new for us."

The outfield consists of Pete Casey in left field, Seth Fouse in left center, Chris Jepsen in right center, and Tony Williams in right field. Seth Jepsen filled in at third base for the loggers and also slammed a double in the second game.

The Loggers will enjoy next Monday night off and resume play July 9th.

The Logging & Milling team is working on a new softball field at Dry Creek, and there is talk of a Delta softball league tournament in August

The Logger's victory extends their winning streak to one game, which they will enjoy for at least two weeks.

Click on photos for enlargements.

Submitted by Tommy Geyer
Photos Courtesy Sarah Jepsen

Delta's First Annual Dryland Hockey Camp

Delta's first annual Dryland Hockey Camp was held June 11-14th at the Deltana Fair Grounds. The camp, run from 5:30 to 9:30 pm each evening for ages 9-18, was to supply Delta's hockey players with skills and information that would help them to condition and train through the off-season and be a better player come ice time. The campers rotated through 4 skills training stations: Puck Shooting with Howard Beito and Bruce Hunchens, "1 on 1" and Scoring Skills with Mike Long and Chris Zachgo, Puck Handling Skills with Mike Tvenge and Dr.Paul Anderson and Fitness and Nutrition with Eli Grossmann, Lowen Ewing and Annie Grossmann. Each day ended with a discussion about the importance of character, education, commitment and conditioning by Al Edgren and the other staff. Each participant went home with tools to improve their skills as well as a notebook full of excellent training information to help them elevate their level of play.

Photo and article Courtesy of Dawn Grossmann. Click on the image for an enlargement.

Photo of the day - June 27

Wild Iris are now in full bloom. As this photo was being taken, a bee flew in and is about to land on the right blossom. Photo Courtesy Art Lenon

Last Week's Mystery Photo Results

Congratulations to Joe Crandall the winner of this weeks' mystery photo. Joe wins a gift certificate from Buffalo Center Diner, compliments of Ed and Ann Richards.

We had 22 correct entries this week. The photo was a picture of the emergency phone outside the State Trooper Building.

We would like to thank everybody for submitting their answers, and invite everyone to find our new mystery photo.

Fourth of July Celebration - Bring Your Talent to Share

Click on the image for a poster enlargement.

Fourth of July Celebration - Dessert Donations Needed

Click on the image for a poster enlargement.

Photo of the day - June 26

A few of the hail "bombs" from the Friday, June 22nd storm that passed through the Clearwater area.

Saturday, June 23, surveying damage to broccoli plants from hailstorm.
Photos Courtesy of Mary St. Peter

Well Wishes to Butch

Well wishes to Butch, Beth, Grace and Emmie Ellis for a full recovery, both medically and financially.

Recently Michael A. “Butch” Ellis very unexpectedly required medical treatment in Seattle. If you would like to help defray costs, you can donate in the name of “Mary E. Ellis” at the Wells Fargo bank. Please see Margaret Gerhardt if you have any questions. These arrangements were set up without Butch and Beth’s knowledge.

Donations may also be mailed directly to the Ellis family at PO Box 271, Delta Junction, AK 99737.

Thank you, in advance, Delta, for your big heart and constant generosity!

Friends

Photo of the day - June 25

On a recent trip to Quartz Lake, the adult damselflies were very thick along the shoreline. Photo Courtesy Fronty Parker

New Deltana Borough Discussion Possibility

With the upcoming election on the proposed Deltana Borough, we want to provide a way for readers to provide information and opinions for others in the community to read. We didn't want to do that in the Community News section of the Delta News Web as we want to focus here on news. So, we have created a new section called Deltana Borough Discussion. You'll find links to recent postings in the content area under the photo of the day. There are two new pages here: Deltana borough - YES and Deltana borouogh - NO.

We welcome articles from anyone. Articles must be 500 words or fewer, and must be signed. Your article may be published anonymously, if you wish, but we will not publish articles from unidentified individuals. Send your article to webeditor@deltanewsweb.com We will not publish articles that are personal in a negative way, and we reserve the right to reject any article.

As individuals who operate the Delta News Web, we of course have our own opinions about this issue, but we will strive to provide a balance of information and opinion from all perspectives.

David Johnson
Publisher

Senior Farmers' Market Coupons

Alpha Omega Life Care, Inc. will once again for the 5th year have available the Senior Farmers’ Market coupons. Starting June 1, 2007 and going through October 31, 2007 Seniors 60 years or older can pick up their coupons. We are hoping this way no Seniors in Delta miss out on this wonderful program.

The coupon booklets have a redemption value of $25.00. Coupon booklets are issued one per Senior, and only one per season. There are income guidelines, but we can help with that in our office. At this time there is only one booklet per Senior.

These coupons are for fresh fruit and vegetables ONLY: No processed foods such as jams or honey, maple or birch syrup, cider, nuts/seeds, eggs, meat, cheese and seafood. Our local Highway’s End Farmers’ Market will redeem these coupons. The list of Farmers’ Markets in Fairbanks, North Pole and Delta Junction is also available at the Alpha Omega office.
Seniors, please stop by Alpha Omega to sign for your coupons.

Also available is nutrition information. Picture ID will be required for age verification. A friend or relative can sign for your coupons if you are unable to come to the office but a proxy form will need to be signed by the senior. If you have any questions call Alpha Omega at 895-4104 or 4143.

By Claudia Vecchiarelli

Midnight Sun Run - local runners from Delta

These are photos from last night's Midnight Sun Run in Fairbanks. Sean Purucker, 2001 Delta High School graduate, and Hun Tak, senior at Delta High School, are shown here in costumes designed by Sean.

The costumes were called the Atomic Arctic Cactuses and Pokey Poke the Cactus Dog. Submitted by Rachelle Stebbins, Sean's mother.

Eielson Air Force Show

The 2007 air show was dedicated to the A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft and crews that are leaving Eielson, one shown here inverted.

This US Air Force C-17, the Spirit of Denali, is the first C-17 arrival in Alaska at Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage, on 11 June 2007. The C-17 is replacing the
C-130 aircraft.



The air show was well attended and very professionally presented by the Air Force military and civilians from Eielson.

Also making a flyby Saturday morning was an F-22 Raptor.


Photos Courtesy of Joe Crandall

Photo of the day - June 23

The Mendenhall Glacier is just a few miles outside of downtown Juneau. It is a popular destination for visitors to Juneau and like many other glaciers in Southeast it is receding. This photo was taken a couple miles up the glacier from the terminus. The group of people standing in front of an ice wall gives a sense of scale to the size of the glacier. Photo Courtesy Gary Cooper

Grain Famers in Delta Depend on the Dairy Farms

Dairy farmers are hoping Mat Maid Dairy will remain open, but so are our local grain farmers. Governor Palin fired the previous board members and new Board members were appointed last Monday. Click here to read the entire article.

Volunteers Needed for 4th of July

Contact Amanda at deltacc@alaska.net or by calling Chamber of Commerc at 895-5068.
Click on the image for an enlargement.

Photo of the day - June 22

Storm cloud over Quartz lake June 19th. Submitted by Betty Mccollough

Ice Cream Social

Click on the image for a photo enlargement.

Matanuska Maid Dairy Will Still Operate

A state grant that has been issued will be keeping the Matanuska Maid Dairy from shutting it's doors next month.

To read the entire article click here

Water-Mining Initiative Fails Legal Test

June 22, 2007, Anchorage, Alaska – Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell denied certification yesterday of an application for an initiative related to water and mining. The initiative would have set out water quality-related prohibitions for any new metallic mining operations over 640 acres in size.

According to Lieutenant Governor Parnell, “The initiative would impermissibly allocate public lands and waters away from mining uses. The people, via Alaska’s constitution and statutes, reserved these powers of appropriation to the legislature.”

Lieutenant Governor Parnell’s decision was supported by an Alaska Department of Law legal opinion, dated June 21, 2007, which concluded that “the initiative goes beyond regulation and is an impermissible allocation of public assets.” The Department of Law relied on Alaska Supreme Court case precedent to conclude that the initiative improperly prevents concurrent use of resources by allocating both public land and water away from mining activity. The lieutenant governor’s decision may be appealed within 30 days.

The Department of Law’s memo is available online
The lieutenant governor’s letter to the initiative’s sponsors is available online

The Division of Elections memorandum is available online

Photo of the day - June 21

In Alaska we have so many Ravens there is one on ever fence post. This photo was taken along Nistler road Wed morning the 20th of June. (Photo copyright Richard Mitchell)

Richardson Highway Delays - starting June 21

Start Date: Thursday, June 21, 2007 Through 5:00 p.m. Saturday, June 23, 2007

30 second version:

Eielson Air Force Base opens its gate to the public for the 2007 Soaringinto Solstice Open House this Saturday, June 23rd. To ensure public safety during portions of both Saturday's show and aerial practice runs, temporary traffic stoppages will occur between Richardson HighwayMileposts 337 and 340.

Delays will begin today, June 21st, starting at 4 p.m. and continuing through the evening.

Additional delays can beexpected on Friday, June 22nd, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and during the Open House on Saturday, June 23rd, between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Please use caution in the area, pay attention to traffic signs and watch for flaggers.

For more information, please contact Eielson Air Force Base SecurityForces at 377-5130.

Merle Eugene Sandy - Obituary

After a long, courageous battle with colon cancer, Merle Sandy, 62, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on June 16, 2007, surrounded by family and friends. Born in Arkansas City, Kansas, May 30, 1945, to Hobert Allan (H.A.) and Rebecca Louise Sandy, his family moved to Avenal, California when he was two years old. Merle attended school in Avenal, Hayfork, Fall River Mills, Redding, Needles and Red Bluff, CA, where he met and married Carol Hinkle in 1962.

Following in his father’s footsteps as a pipefitter/welder, he worked in refineries, oilfields and on pipelines from Libya, North Africa to California and Alaska. He lived in Alaska from 1972 to 1987 and was well known for his skill as a welder on the 800 mile Trans Alaska Pipeline.

An avid outdoorsman, Merle enjoyed hunting throughout Alaska and California. Merle was a long time member of Northern California Pipe Trades Local 342 out of Concord. He and his family returned to California in 1987and moved back to their home in Benicia. Merle took early retirement in 1997 because of an old neck injury.

In 2002, after several years as a bachelor, he went back to Delta Junction, Alaska. He renewed an acquaintance there with Susan Kemp and they were married September 20, 2003. Merle and Susan moved back to Benicia for his medical care in 2004. They attended Calvary Community Church.

His family said “He was an extraordinary family man who will be dearly missed as a loving and giving father and friend”. He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan, sons Ronald Sandy of Benicia, Richard Sandy and wife Julie of Concord, stepson Todd Blum and wife Tracy of Roseville, sister Elaine Sandy of Vacaville, grandchildren Crystal, Shelby, Cody, and Tanner Sandy, Taylor and Joshua Sandy, Trinity and Ty Blum, nephews, a niece, cousins and many friends he made easily throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his father, mother and older sister, Jeannie.

The family invites you to attend a special celebration of Merle’s life at Calvary Community Church, 1315 West Military Street, Benicia, CA, 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 23, 2007.

In memory of Merle, donations may be made to the Sutter Solano Charitable Foundation-Cancer Center, 300 Hospital Drive, Vallejo, CA 94589 or Calvary Community Church Youth Ministry at the address above.

Photos of the latest Boy Scout community project

Photos of the latest Boy Scout community project. Troop 56 of Delta Junction cleaned up Rika's gravesite off Rika's Road in Big Delta. As you can see they made quite an improvement and had a good time.





Alan Levinson - Scout master Scouts - Charlie Herman, Tony Tirrell, Ben Mock. Bill Feilner, Matthew Joslin, Robby Besch, Nicholas Duenas, Arthur Dowling

The pathway before the troop cleaned it up.

Pathway after it was cleared and cleaned up.

Click on the photos for an enlargment. Well done, Troop!
Photos are Courtesy of Eileen Herman.

11th Annual Native Family Camp

Alaska Ablaze is a Native Family Camp designed to bring families closer to the creator and each other. This camp is held in the beautiful, mountain village of Mentasta.

Dynamic speakers, workshops, games, basketball, hiking, swimming (for the daring), great food, awesome music, crafts, fishing.

This is a 6 day camp that starts with a Youth Camp and continues with youth activities all week.Staff is comprised of international, seasoned leaders most of whom are Youth With A Mission active missionaries or alumni and a returning Lutheran VBS team.

Support staff is from the group Forward Edge, International based out of Vancouver, Washington, led by Countryside Church Youth Director

For more information on this camp, please visit the Delta Christian Center website.

Photo of the day - June 20

"Two boats wait till morning for more fishing on Quartz Lake over the Memorial Day weekend. Photo Courtesy Sebastian Saarloos"

Logging and Milling Softball Win-loss Record 0-6

Logging and Milling dropped a pair of games this Monday night, running their win-loss record to 0-6.

“We’re just not getting the hitting done,” stated Brad Cox, third baseman for the Loggers.

“We’re not really getting the fielding done or the pitching done either,” added another anonymous member of the team.

The Loggers are having a lot of fun though, and that’s important too.

There are some really good teams in the league this year, but Logging & Milling is not one of them.

Boeing, the only undefeated team in the Delta Softball men’s league, beat the Loggers in the first game, and Clearwater Lodge took the nightcap. Scores of these games are available upon request, if you really just have to know.

Rookie Chris Jepsen’s hitting has been a pleasant surprise for the Loggers this year. He hammered a home run over the fence in the 2nd game, the first of his career but hopefully not the last. Seth Fouse also homered , an inside the park hit that banged off the fence in the left field.

There are still a lot of games left, and Logging & Milling is overdue for a win. Maybe next week.
--Tommy Geyer

Delta Chamber of Commerce's Annual 4th of July Celebration

Please click on the image for a photo enlargment.

Last Week's Mystery Photo Results

Congratulations to Art Lenon the winner of this weeks' mystery photo. Art wins a gift certificate from Buffalo Drive In, compliments of John and Linda Sloan.

We had 27 correct entries this week. The photo was a picture of the Deep Freeze thermometer on the south side of the Visitor's Center. A remanent from the Chamber of Commerce's Deep Freeze Classic. This little game, called the Delta Deep Freeze Classic, would allow anyone to guess when the thermometer at the Delta Junction visitor center would bottom out for the winter.

We would like to thank everybody for submitting their answers, and invite everyone to find our new mystery photo.

Come on Out and Join the Delta Sing-a-Long

Delta Sing-a-Long and Polar Pickers meet on the 4th Saturday of the month– a NOTEWORTHY evening---growing our personal skills and preserving America’s musical heritage

Please join us at 7PM, Senior Lounge, June 23rd.

Bring your voice, your instrument, your love of homemade music, and please call 895-4104 to RSVP.

Photo of the day - June 19

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has been conducting aerial bison census flights. The bison in this photo were part of an aggregation of approximately 175 bison located along the Delta River recently. Current herd estimates are 379 adults and 101 calves. The reduced number of Delta bison hunting permits issued the last several years have resulted in the herd increasing to it's herd size objective. Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Photo of the day - June 18

This C-17 was practicing touch and go landings last Thursday.

Not something you see every day...Not even in Delta. Photos Courtesy Candy Corty

Governor Palin Speaking On Behalf of Alaska's Dairy Industry

Even though Mat-Su Dairy is expected to close its doors next month, Governor Palin said she doesn't plan to let the dairy industry dry up just yet. She quotes 'Things are kind of a mess...we're going to clean it up'

To read the entire article click here.

Photo of the day - June 16

Lee Spears and friends building fence the old fashion way on Nistler Road. Part II of Lee Spears and friends building fence the old fashioned way on Nistler Road. Photos courtesy Barbara Tharp

Photo of the day - June 15

One of our daily visitors year round who frequents our yard for pellets and grass (in the summer). The number reaches seven snow hares in the yard at a time. Their antics are enjoyable and very entertaining. Photo Courtesy Deb Snyder

Mat Maid Dairy closure impacts Delta

When Matanuska Maid dairy closes on July 7, barley and hay farms in Delta will lose a primary outlet for their product. Read more here.

Chinook by George M Hosier II - Glorious Litter

I want to focus this column on thanking all of the dedicated litterers out there, who help to make our community a better place. I also want to apologize to you collectively. I must confess that in the past I have harbored ill will toward you. I considered you to be selfish, slovenly, inconsiderate slobs who bore no appreciation for the beauty of our state and who did not respect the rights and property of others. However, a series of recent experiences have shown me how wrong I have been and have helped me to understand your true selfless nature. I only hope that you can forgive me, and that future insinuations by uninformed people like me will not discourage or deter you from your noble life’s work.

The first event that triggered the beginning of my mental paradigm shift occurred just a stone’s throw up Tanana Loop Extension from my house. In that location yawns an old gravel pit. Concrete barricades have blocked off its two entrances. However, enough room remains before the barriers for a vehicle to pull off of the road, and at the entrance closest to my house, a vehicle can actually drive deep enough into the trees and brush to be nearly out of sight of the road.
To read the entire article we invite you to browse through our Chinook pages.

Lieutenant Governor Parnell Elected Vice Chair of Aerospace States Association

Alaska Lt Governor will also chair Aviation Committee

The Aerospace States Association (ASA) last week elected Vermont Lt. Governor Brian Dubie to serve as its Chairman for the next two years, and Lt. Governor Sean Parnell to serve as Vice Chair.

Lieutenant governors from twelve states were also elected to leadership positions. Dubie said, “I am honored to serve as Chairman, and am delighted that Lt. Governor Parnell has agreed to help me lead the association and spearhead our initiatives in aviation – an area where his experience and his passion to serve the people of Alaska will make a difference for our nation as well.”

Dubie went on to say, “ASA is becoming a major grass-roots force for improvements in aerospace policy and education throughout the country. Lt. Governor Parnell and our 2007-2009 leadership team will shape new initiatives to advance states’ interests and heighten our influence on key aerospace and aviation issues.”

The group’s top issues include R&D funding, workforce training, economic development in aerospace and aviation, excellence in math and science education in every state, and factors to keep states competitive in a global marketplace. Committees include Aerospace R&D, Aviation, Education, Membership, Policy, Space and Workforce.

ASA is a bi-partisan organization representing the grass roots of American aerospace and aviation. It is a scientific and educational organization of Lieutenant Governors and Governor-appointed delegates. ASA was formed in 1989 to promote a state-based perspective in federal aerospace policy development and to support state aerospace initiatives that enhance student/teacher education outreach and economic development opportunities. ASA maintains direct ties to the executive branches of state governments throughout the nation.

To learn more

Photo of the day - June 14

I photographed this Dall sheep ram recently in Denali National Park.
Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Why We Commemorate Flag Day

In the United States, Flag Day (more formally, National Flag Day) is celebrated on June 14. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened that day by resolution of the Second Continental Congress in 1777.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day; in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress.

Flag Day is not an official federal holiday, though on June 14, 1937 Pennsylvania became the first (and only) U.S. state to celebrate Flag Day as a state holiday.

Title 36 Sec. 110 of the US Code is the official statute on Flag Day, however it is at the President's discretion to proclaim officially the observance.

The largest Flag Day parade is held annually in Troy, New York.

Framingham, Massachusetts also holds a yearly Flag Day parade, as do many other towns and cities, although in recent years a shrinking turnout has prompted the town to consider eliminating the event

To read the entire article, please visit Wikipedia

Fundraiser for Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

Slow Pitch HOME RUN DERBY for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. June 28 @ 6pm on the Delta Junction Softball Field. Register now for $7. Prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place. email: sarah.jo.seymore@us.army.mil for more information or to sign up. OPEN TO EVERYONE!!

~Sarah Jo Seymore 49th Space Bn (GMD)Ft. Greely, AK

Support me in my quest to get to the Nike Women's Marathon: make a TAX DEDUCTABLE donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society today!

Photo of the day - June 13

Jared Creviston with his 47 lb king salmon he caught at Chitna this last weekend.
Photo courtesy Louie Creviston

Logging and Milling Softball Team Defeated by Boeing

The Logging & Milling softball team suffered its third loss of the season last Monday night.

The Loggers stayed right with an excellent Boeing team, and even took the lead twice, but Boeing rallied for seven runs in the top of the sixth inning to put the game out of reach.

“They’re a solid team with power, speed, and a good defense,” one of the Loggers said. “But more than that, they’re a great bunch of guys to play softball with.”

The Logger’s left fielder, Peter Casey, crashed into the fence to catch a long drive off the bat of Boeing first baseman, Chad Pinkleman. Boeing could have taken advantage of the situation by clearing the bases; instead, they held their runners. That’s real sportsmanship.

Congratulations Boeing! from the Logging & Milling team. Good game!

Last Week's Mystery Photo Results

Congratulations to Mark Jurgens the winner of this weeks' mystery photo. Mark wins a gift certificate from Buffalo Center Diner, compliments of Ed and Ann Richards.

We had 12 correct entries this week. The photo was a picture of a utility can on a power pole at Mile Post 267.4 of the Richardson Highway between theturn-off to the clinic and the Delta Laundry/Thrift Store (on the east side).

We would like to thank everybody for submitting their answers, and invite everyone to find our new mystery photo.

Photo of the day - June 12

This little guy was outside our office this morning, Fort Greely.
Photo Courtesy Lisa Labaska

Photo of the day - June 11

This is a picture of a magpie and an eagle having a conversation. Magpie is on the left. This was taken along the Tanana River. Photo Courtesy Nick Herman

Midnight Sun Run Partner Needed

To the editor:

I am going to be participating in the Midnight Sun Run up in Fairbanks on the 23rd. I have about 12 days to find someone to do it with me. Hopefully I can find someone energetic, and enthusiastic. I am bringing up some costumes with me, it will be quite a workout, there will be lots of dancing also, so it requires a little bit of bravery.

I had a runner lined up to do this with me, but it fell thru. I am a graduate from DHS and would like to have a running partner for this race. If you are interested, please contact me. Thanks for your interest, Sean Purucker.

Photo of the day - June 9

This male goldeneye shows a bit of "attitude" while showing off his beautiful colors.
Image by Dwight Phillips

Photo of the day - June 8

On a recent trip to Valdez, we were able to see whales. Photo Courtesy Billy Chapman

Photo of the day - June 7

You can see from the size of the rear feet why the hare is called a "snowshoe hare". The feet are huge and grow long hairs in the winter to help the hare navigate in deep snow.
Photo Courtesy Art Lenon

Gary D. Nilsson - Memorial Service

Gary D. Nilsson, 62, longtime Deltan and Gerstle River area homesteader, passed away in his sleep, Tuesday, May 5, after a short battle with lung and brain cancer.

His memorial service will be held June 12, at the Delta Community Center, starting with a share-a-dish at 6 PM.

Historic, fun, memorable moments of Gary's youth begin at 6:40 PM, followed by family memories. Open mic for friends' songs and sharing thereafter.

E-mail Jean at garysmemories@yahoo.com if you have photos or remembrances of Gary to share, a song to sing, or ideas for celebrating his life at the memorial.

If you'd like to write up your favorite or most funny remembrance about Gary, and bring it to the memorial service, we will post it on the his "memory wall" for folks to read during the potluck.

Folks can bring written remembrances or pics to the funeral to be posted on his "Memorial Wall" and to put in his daughter's scrapbook when the funeral is over?

Softball Season is Here

The Dry Creek softball team dropped a pair of games Monday, on opening night in Delta Junction. It could be a tough year for the Logging & Milling team who lost both their shortstop and their third baseman to free agency.

The first game saw the scrappy loggers come from behind to tie the game 11-11 in the sixth. A sharp hit by Brad Cox drove in two, sending the teams to extra innings. The 49th, a tough military team from Ft. Greely, scored three in the top of the 8th to pull ahead. The loggers rallied in the bottom of the 8th for two runs but fell just short to take the loss, 14-13.

The Loggers were hammered in the second game by a powerful Cummings team (score available upon request).

"We just couldn't get our bats going," said pitcher Tommy Geyer. "I think we all had some butterflies, but I was encouraged. Most of the players on the other teams played little league or high school softball and some played in college. Our guys never had that opportunity so we're still learning some things as we go."

The Loggers have three rookies on the roster this year: Chris Jepsen, Seth Jepsen, and Joe Casey--they all contributed in the first game. Chris Jepsen was injured in an outfield collision with Tony Williams and had to be taken for medical treatment (cracked nose).

The three other teams in the league are all very good so the Loggers will have their work cut out for them this year.

--Tommy Geyer

Photo of the day - June 6

This time of the year lakes in the Delta area get stocked with Rainbow trout. A technician with ADF&G in this picture stocks nearly catchable size Rainbows into Little Lost Lake next to Quartz. Other lakes recently stocked are Quartz, Bolio, Twin, Shaw Pond, and 81 mile pit.

This picture is hatchery Rainbow trout getting accustomed to their new home in Little Lost Lake. Photos Courtesy of Fronty Parker

Last Week's Mystery Photo Results

Congratulations to Dave Hoffman the winner of this weeks' mystery photo. Dave wins a gift certificate from Buffalo Drive In, compliments of John and Linda Sloan.

We had 12 correct entries this week. The photo was the 7 UP sign that you see when driving to Fairbanks, approximately mile 273.5 in Big Delta on the left hand side. It was originally the location of the Big Delta Food Mart.

We would like to thank everybody for submitting their answers, and invite everyone to find our new mystery photo. Last week's mystery photo proved to be the hardest to find thus far, and this week's photo should prove challenging also.

Why do We Commemorate D-Day

The invasion of France on June 6, 1944 was a triumph of intelligence, coordination, secrecy, and planning. The bold attack was also a tremendous risk. Ultimately it succeeded because of individual soldiers' bravery in combat. Learn some of the basic facts about D-Day.
The Meaning of the "D"
Ever since June 6, 1944, people have been asking what the "D" in "D-Day" means. Does it stand for "decision?" The day that 150,000 Allied soldiers landed on the shores of Normandy was certainly decisive. And with ships, landing craft and planes leaving port by the tens of thousands for a hostile shore, it is no wonder that some would call it "disembarkation" or "departed."

Text excerpts from American Experience. For the complete article, please visit their website.

Photo of the day - June 5

These moose found some green grass in the housing area on Fort Greely. This picture was taken on May 6th. Photo Courtesy Natalie Jones

Photo of the day - June 4

Just a quick hello. Its amazing who you run into from Delta Junction here in Kuwait. Kinda like passing through the airport in Seattle. This is me with A1C Lindsey Sanders. Her Air Force unit passed through camp on there way to there next assignment. She says a big hello to mom (Vickie Sanders ). Hope all is well back home. Only 5 more months for me ! Hope the fishin' is good and everyone enjoys their summer. SGT Sherman Stebbins HHC 3-297th Inf Alaska National Guard

Photo of the day - June 2

This arctic ground squirrel stands up on his back legs as he stands guard over his domain. Image and copyright by Dwight Phillips

Photo of the day - June 1

A sandpiper rests near a puddle along Main Street USA. Photo Courtesy Art Lenon

Photo of the day - May 31

Taken from behind the First Baptist Church Youth Building. Photo Courtesy Steven Morden