Project Christmas

“For God so Loved the World...” is the theme of Project Christmas 2007. Christmas is a time to count our blessings and to give to those less fortunate. Our hope is that everyone in our community will be able to celebrate Christmas with a good meal and gifts for the children.The Delta Christian Ministerial Association sponsors Project Christmas each year to provide a way for you to help others. To share the love that God has given to you.

There are cans placed around town to collect cash donations for Project Christmas. We thank every place of business willing to sponsor a place for the donation can. Please donate your change to Project Christmas when you see one of these donation cans.

You may also contribute money to Project Christmas by making a donation to your church -- clearly noting that it is for Project Christmas. Tax-deductible donations must be made through a church with a non-profit id. Or you can make a donation directly to Project Christmas by sending your check to PO Box 884, Delta Junction, AK 99737. Another way to donate cash is to deposit it directly into Project Christmas’ account at either Mt McKinley Bank or Wells Fargo Bank in Delta Junction.

Due to problems with a lot of out-dated food stuffs being donated last year and storage concerns, only monetary donations can be accepted. Please recall those biblical references to selling possessions and giving the money to help those in need -- storing up treasures in heaven, for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (See Matthew 19; Mark 10; and Luke 12.)

This year we anticipate about 100 Project Christmas boxes will be distributed. The Project Christmas Coordinator is Delta Presbyterian and Faith Lutheran churches. If you have questions or wish to help, please contact the church office at 895-4322. The boxes will be packed on December 20 and distributed on December 21 and 22.

You may donate to Project Christmas at any time during the year – you are never too late to help with next Christmas!

Thank you for your generosity.

Purchasing Safe Toys for the Holiday Season and Beyond

BBB Offers Safe Toy Shopping Advice

Anchorage, Alaska,—November 29, 2007—The toy industry spends an estimated $300 million a year on safety testing and inspection of toys, and approximately three billion toys are sold in America each year. So far this year, more than 20 million toys have been pulled off shelves as a result of more than 60 recalls. This is more than twice the number of alerts the US Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) issued last year.

Perhaps even more concerning is that, according to the CPSC, less than 20 percent of recalled toys make it back to the manufacturer for proper disposal or repair.

“The hot topic this holiday season for many parents and relatives of children is a trust issue – ‘which brands and which toys can I trust?’”, said Robert Andrew, President and CEO of the local BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington. “The health and safety of children cannot be left to chance. There is plenty of reliable information available about toy recalls, and our BBB is encouraging everyone who will be giving or donating toys this year to take a few minutes and become a smart, safe toy shopper this season.”

If you’re holding a holiday shopping list that includes the names of a few good boys or girls, the local BBB offers the following advice to ensure that the toys you give are safe.

Find out which toys have been recalled by visiting the CPSC Web site at www.cpsc.gov. Also, the Toy Industry Association provides information on toy safety as well as photos of recalled toys in an easy-to-use index on their Web site at http://www.toyinfo.org/index.html.

If you have purchased a recalled toy, the CPSC will negotiate a resolution with the toy manufacturer, which usually results in a refund or an exchange for a different toy.

If you purchased the toy from a retailer, try returning the item to them first to potentially save yourself the time it will take to deal directly with the toy manufacturer. Major toy outlets often have their own return policy for recalled toys.

Make sure the toy is age-appropriate. Toy safety isn’t only about avoiding recalled products; you also need to make sure you’re buying appropriate toys for the age of the child. Read and follow the age recommendation listed on the package or toy.

Consumers should be aware that the CPSC warns that at-home lead-level testing kits are inaccurate, so if you’re worried about lead poisoning, first talk to your pediatrician about conducting a blood test. As a second step, if you think your child has been hurt by a potentially faulty or toxic toy, call the CPSC hotline at (800) 638-2772.

Toy Recall Hotlines
Consumer Products Safety Commission: (800) 638-2772
Toy Industry Association: (888) 888- 4TOYS
Mattel: (800) 916-4498
Fisher-Price: (800) 991-2444
Toys R Us: (800) 869-7787

For more trustworthy advice to keep your loved ones safe and secure this holiday season, go to www.bbb.org.

Brenda Smith
Public Relations/Communications Manager
907-562-6135 ext. 502
brenda@thebbb.org

Photo of the day - November 29

Sunrise in the interior. Photo Courtesy Jason Langiewicz

Benefit Dinner Planned for baby Isaiah Peyton John

A benefit dinner and silent auction has been planned to help Rachel and Rueben John for their infant son Isaiah Peyton John . Come join us and give your support.

Holiday Open House for Mary Kay Products

Come see what we have to offer.

Great gift ideas for that special someone in your life.

Some products on hand and if ordered will be here before Christmas or products are free unless on back order at time of sale.

Stop in on 8 December from 1 pm to 4 pm to register for hourly give aways (need not be present to win) 1709 E Thomas Loop off Nistler towards towards Clearwater. Follow the signs.

Melissa Luntz Beauty Consultant 590-3739

Chamber of Commerce - Outdoor Holiday Decorating Contest

The idea behind this contest is for people to nominate businesses or residences who have gone the “extra mile” in decorating their property for Christmas time.

The Chamber also hopes that this contest will encourage more people to decorate.

There are two categories: commercial and residential with a winner awarded in each.

There are no limits on nominations. Nomination forms can be picked up at the Delta Chamber of Commerce office (Jarvis West building, suite 1B) or can be found in an upcoming issue of the Delta Wind. Nominations are due at the Chamber office by Thursday, December 13th. Judging will take place the week of December 17th.

For questions on this contest, please contact the Delta Chamber @ 895-5068 or e-mail

Chamber of Commerce - Children's Christmas Coloring Contest

This contest is for 1-10 year olds and is divided into age categories.

A prize will be awarded to the winner of each age group.

All coloring pages will be on display at the Delta Community Library.

Winning coloring pages will be featured in the Delta Wind and the Delta Vanguard.

Coloring pages, entry forms, and complete contest rules can be picked up at the Chamber office (located in the Jarvis West building, suite 1B). Entry forms and coloring pages are due at the Chamber office by Thursday, December 13.

For questions on this contest, please contact the Delta Chamber @ 895-5068 or e-mail.

Chamber of Commerce - Winter Essay Contest

This contest is for 11-18 year olds.

The theme of this essay is “winter.” Essays may be about any topic as long as it falls under the scope of winter.

For judging purposes, the essays will be divided by age categories.

A prize will be awarded to the winner of each age category and winners will be featured in the Delta Wind and the Delta Vanguard.

Required essay length is approximately 500 words (about 1 page). The essays will be on display at the Delta Community Library.

Entry forms and complete contest information can be picked up at the Delta Chamber of Commerce office located in the Jarvis West building, suite 1B. Entries are due by Thursday, December 13th.

For questions on this contest, please contact the Delta Chamber @ 895-5068 or e-mail

Chamber of Commerce - Gingerbread House Contest

The contest is for all ages and is divided by age groups for judging purposes.

There are also two different categories:
Category 1: houses made with kits, graham crackers, pretzels, or of similar materials.
Category 2: houses made with real gingerbread. A prize will be awarded to the winner of each age group and house category.

Entry forms and complete contest information can be picked up at the Delta Chamber of Commerce office located in the Jarvis West building, suite 1B. These forms are due at the Chamber office by Tuesday, December 11th.

Gingerbread houses will be due at the Delta Community Library on Friday, December 14 by 4PM where they will be on display.

For questions on this contest, please contact the Delta Chamber @ 895-5068 or e-mail

Photo of the day - November 28

The American Dipper is North America's only truly aquatic songbird. It catches all of its food underwater in swiftly flowing streams by swimming and walking on the stream bottom. This specimen was photographed on Mentasta Creek. Image by Dwight Phillips.

Community Holiday Dinner

Presented by Alpha Omega Life Care, Inc.
Another Holiday Community Dinner took place at the Community Center on Saturday, November 24th.
Click on photo for an enlargment

This community event was made possible by the generosity in part, and among others, of the Fairbanks Community Food Bank, Ed and Gail Larson of Delta Junction IGA market, Alpha Omega Food Pantry, Delta Sing-a-Long, Polar Pickers and Lyrica Music. Some local folks brought delicious side dishes.

Judith, Claudia, Rose, and Colleen cooked for a day and a half, while Patty Jensen peeled hundreds of carrots and potatoes.

The turkey(s) were superb, there was a plethora of choices to go along, including a full table of desserts, for the 75 guests. Many hugs, greetings, conversations and plates later, the seventy-five guests were sated, and returns to the table for refills had slowed to a trickle.

More than a few remained for a sing-a-long in the Senior Lounge following dinner.

It was a grand time of renewal and reunion—please see the photo spread by Carol Watkins on Monday, and other photos today.

Thanks to all who made the Community Dinner a success. We must do it again!

Article submitted by Ken Farrow
Photo courtesy of Carol Watkins

Fairbanks - Enjoyment for the Whole Family

Dance Theatre Presents: Babes in Toyland
Nov 30 - 7pm
Dec 1 - 2pm and 7pm
Dec 2 - 2pm
Dec 7 - 7 pm
Dec 8 - 2pm and 7pm
Dec 9 - 2 pm

A Holiday Theatrical Extravaganza for the whole family.
Call 452-1113 or www.dancetheatrefairbanks.com

Delta Meat Open House This Saturday

Delta Meat and Sausage is having an Open House! Come join us at the Annual Christmas open house for free samples of all our products and a free drawing for a side of pork, smoked ham, and smoked turkey.

This is a great opportunity to buy Alaskan grown/produced products for the family.

See you there this Saturday December 1, 2007 from 10-3 p.m.

Location: Mile 1413.5 Alaska Highway

Birth Announcemnt - Brady Bevard

Ashley and Emily are proud to announce the arrival of their baby brother, Brady Lee Bevard on October 31, 2007 at 6:25pm.

He was 7 lbs. 2 oz. and 20 1/2 inches long.

Proud parents Rob & Sarah Bevard

Calf Management Workshop

Milan Shipka, Livestock Specialist with the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service will conduct a Calf Mangement Workshop on Thursday, December 6, 2007 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the CES Conference Room located in the Jarvis Office Center.

There will be a $5.00 fee per person, registration deadline is Tuesday, December 4, 2007.

Please contact the Delta CES office at 895-4215 to confirm your attendance. Seating is limited.

This class are being designed for current producers as well as those individuals interested in livestock production.

Cold Weather Policy: -40 F or colder please call the Delta CES office to confirm.

The Sounds of Christmas

Fairbanks Sweet Adelines & Great Land Sounds proudly present:
The Sounds of Christmas at Pioneer Park Theater

Friday - November 30, 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 1, 2:00 pm

Adults: $15.00, Seniors & Military $10.00, Children under 12 FREE.

Call 479-3624 for more information

BBB Offers Advice for a Safe Holiday Shopping Experience

Privacy Issues and ID Theft are Top Concerns of Online Shoppers, According to New Survey by BBB

Anchorage, Alaska,—November 27, 2007—A new Better Business Bureau (BBB) survey conducted by Kelton Research finds that six in 10 (60 percent) American adult online shoppers are worried about their personal information being sold or reused when asked what has ever made them hesitant about completing a transaction online. Nearly the same amount (59 percent), admit they’ve had anxiety about their credit card information being stolen.

Despite concerns, consumers are increasingly turning to the convenience of online shopping during the holiday season. In a recent 2007 holiday spending forecast, Forrester Research, Inc. estimated online shoppers would increase seasonal spending nearly 20 percent, to $33 billion, this year.

“Even though increasingly more holiday shoppers have confidence in making online purchases, basic trust in business issues such as privacy and ID theft are clearly still top concerns for many consumers,” said Robert Andrew, President and CEO of the local BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington. “Survey results show that fears over the use and safety of personal information including credit card numbers, telephone numbers, and home and e-mail addresses are the main reasons online shoppers second-guess their decisions when making online purchases.”

In addition to privacy and identity theft concerns, many online shoppers also indicated that they have hesitated shopping online over the concern of receiving spam and/or junk e-mails (45 percent). Less online shoppers were concerned about the difficulty of navigating the site (26 percent) and the amount of time it takes to ship the item (25 percent).

“Although online shopping is fast and convenient, unfortunately, you can’t tell just by looking at a Web site whether a company is trustworthy and dependable, much less even legitimate. Consumers want a safe online environment, and they can help themselves by being a savvy online shopper this holiday season with a little research and by taking a few safety precautions,” added Andrew.

Your local BBB offers the following advice to help make your online shopping a safe and easy experience this holiday season:

• Protect your computer. Update your computer system with the latest spam filters, anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a secure firewall.
• Use trustworthy Web sites. Always start with your local BBB to check on the seller’s reputation and record for customer satisfaction. Look for a BBB “trustmark” from BBBOnLine and click on that seal to confirm that it’s valid.
• Protect your personal information. Read the site’s privacy policy to understand what personal information is being requested and how it will be used. If there isn’t one posted, consider that a warning that your personal information may be sold to others without your permission.
• Trust your gut. Offers on Web sites and in unsolicited e-mails can often sound too good to be true. Always go with your instincts and don’t be afraid to pass up a “deal” because it might cost you in the end.
• Beware of phishing. Legitimate businesses do not send e-mails claiming problems with an order or an account to lure the “buyer” into revealing financial information. Pick up the phone and call the contact number on the Web site where you made the purchase to ask if there was a problem with your transaction.
• Confirm your online purchase is secure. Look in the address box for the “s” in https:// and in the lower-right corner for the “lock” symbol before paying. If you have doubts about a site, right-click anywhere on the page and select “Properties.” This will let you see the real URL (Web site address) and the dialog box will reveal if the site is not encrypted.
• Pay with a credit card. It’s best to use a credit card because under federal law you can dispute the charges if you don’t get what you were promised. You also have dispute rights if there are unauthorized charges on your credit card, and many card issuers have “zero liability” policies under which you pay nothing if someone steals your credit card number and uses it.
• Keep documentation of your order. When you’ve completed the online order process, there may be a final confirmation page or you might receive confirmation by email – don’t delete these, save them!
• Check your credit card statement often. Don’t wait for a paper statement; check your credit card statements for suspicious activity by either calling the credit card company or by checking your statement online.
• Know your rights. Federal law requires that orders made by mail, phone or online be shipped by the date promised or, if no delivery time was stated, within 30 days. If the goods aren’t shipped on time, you can cancel and demand a refund. There is no general three-day cancellation right, but you do have the right to reject merchandise if it’s defective or was misrepresented. Otherwise, it’s the company’s policies that determine if you can cancel the purchase and whether you can get a refund or credit.

For more reliable advice from your BBB on staying safe this holiday season – online and otherwise – go to www.bbb.org.

Brenda Smith
PR/Communications Manager
(907) 562-6135 ext. 502
brenda@thebbb.org

Photo of the day - November 27

Had this picture taken on 11/26/07. Had a couple of sweatshirts made with the Big Delta, Alaska Command Patch, the Army Arctic Center. On the left is me, Tom Mlinar and John Browy. We were both stationed at Big Delta, later Ft. Greely, 1954 - 1956. We were in the HQs Company, Signal Corp. John and our families have been close friends since. Photo Courtesy Tom Mlinar

Honoring two former vets of Ft. Greely

Harvest Wrap-Up

Thursday, November 29, 2007
6:30 – 9:00
Delta Career Advancement Center Room 103 (located behind the Delta High School on Harper Ave) Delta Junction

The following agricultural researchers with the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the USDA – Agriculture Research Service, will be present to discuss current and future research efforts:

• Dennis Fielding - USDA – Agriculture Research Service - Grasshoppers
• Susan Emmert & Aaron Hagerty - USDA – Agriculture Research Service – Insects/Potatoes
• Steve Seefeldt - USDA – Agriculture Research Service – Herbicide Studies
• Mingchu Zhang - UAF SNRAS & AFES – Grain Trials
• Bob VanVeldhuizen - UAF SNRAS & AFES – Grain Trials

This is an ideal opportunity for producers to interact with researchers to discuss production practices, management questions, or future research needs.

Please confirm if you will be attending by Wednesday, November 28, 2007. Call: 907-895-4215

Hope to see you there.

Sincerely,
Phil Kaspari
Agricultural Extension Agent

Adam's Ribs Community Thanksgiving Dinner

Exclusive to Delta News Web by Kenneth Farrow

Thanksgiving Day has come and gone, but not the extra pounds we gained while over-indulging!
If you went out to Adam’s Ribs to take advantage of their wonderful and magnanimous offer, then you inevitably gained a few, unless you are very, very disciplined.

Their buffet tables audibly groaned, displaying a sumptuous and traditional Thanksgiving dinner---melt-in-your mouth turkey, epicurean ham, candied yams, TO-DIE-FOR au-gratin potatoes, gravy, and desserts to numerous to list.

This was a community dinner—gracious, all-inclusive invitation, open door, come one, come all.
And they came—when the smoke cleared, 90, count ‘em, ninety, folks had been stuffed—er, served—without charge.

What a grand and magnificent gesture to the community! Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts Miki and Mark, hosts and cooks extraordinaire.

Photo of the day - November 26

Granites in the shadow. Photo Courtesy Art Lenon

Thanksgiving Dinner with Alpha Omega

Thanksgiving Dinner put on by Alpha Omega on Nov. 24th at the Senior Center. Photo Courtesy Carol Watkins

Click on photos for an enlargement.

Photo of the day November 24

Photo of a buffalo, taken inside the Fort Greely base on 11/20/07.
Photo Courtesy Bill Chapman

Photo of the day - November 23

"A lone Gray Jay guards his Thanksgiving Feast (old crackers), with a windblown sky as a backdrop." Photo Courtesy Sebastian Saarloos

Photo of the day - November 21

October sunrise was taken on Sawmill Creek road. Photo Courtesy Carol Watkins

Holiday Community Dinner

In years past we have partaken of bounteous Holiday Dinners and warm social times with various congregations and organizations in Delta.

This year it is OUR TURN!

Alpha Omega Life Care, Inc. is presenting a Community Dinner on Saturday, 11-24-07 for friends, and for those who have no holiday family here.

We will be serving you from 4PM to 6PM in the Senior Lounge Saturday afternoon and evening.

Later there will be music and snacks. We’d LOVE to see you. Please join us.

Fairbanks Drama Association - Madeline's Christmas

Madeline's Christmas
The delightful Musical by Jennifer Kirkeby and Shirley Mier, based on the book by Ludwig Bemelmans
Directed by Sandy Wilson
Nov 30 - Dec 16

Fairbanks Drama Association
1852 2nd Ave
Fairbanks AK 99701

"In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines." So begins the story of "Madeline's Christmas" as Miss Clavel takes the twelve little girls on their morning walk. On Christmas Eve the adventure begins when there is a knock on the front door and the rug merchant brings twelve magical rugs. He reminds Madeline that Christmas is the time of miracles and each little girl gets to make one happen with her own magic carpet. Blessings are counted and celebrated with an upbeat muscial score as these little girls sing and dance their way into your heart.

Photo of the day - November 19

Picture of the sun setting as we left Fairbanks on November 7th.
Photo Courtesy Natalie Jones

MOPS is Having a Shed Raffle

Need a place to store your tools this winter? MOPS is having a shed raffle! Win a 6X6 rough cut shed donated by S. VALLEY FARMS & FEED SUPPLY. Check out their new location at mile 1414 off the Alaska Highway right before Delta Meat and Sausage.

$5.00 a Ticket or $20.00 for 5 Tickets. Tickets will be available at IGA on Dec. 8th, 2007 From 10am-2pm or call 590-1802.

Drawing will be held on December 18th, 2007.

Open House - Starvin' Artists Holiday Gallery

Welcome to the Starvin' Artists Holiday Gallery Open House
Saturday, December 1st
noon - 7 PM
Columbo Building, Above Mt. McKinley Bank
8 local artists/photographers featured

Photo of the day - November 19

A photo of the hoar frost covering the trees in our yard. Photo Courtesy Carol Watkins

Help Needed for the John Family

Most of you know that my Alaska brother Reuben John (son of Fred and Linnea John Jr. of Delta Junction) and his wife Rachel (daughter of Dwight and Julia Phillips of Delta Junction) had their baby, Isaiah Peyton John on October 28th, 2007. Isaiah has severe Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension (PPHN) in his heart and lungs. Since birth he has been struggling with his health, he had a surgery last week but has been unable to leave the hospital or breathe on his own since his birth. His family has been unable to hold him due to the various breathing devices he must stay connected to in order to survive.

Per doctor’s orders, Rachel has been in Anchorage prior to his birth. Shortly after Isaiah’s birth, Reuben returned to Fairbanks for work, however, after only two days back at work, Isaiah’s specialist suggested Reuben return to Anchorage due to his precarious situation. Reuben will unlikely be able to leave his family until Isaiah is in a more medically stable condition, which according to his doctors may be at least two months.

I'm writing this letter to ask you to consider donating to Reuben and Rachel so that they can continue to be with baby Isaiah at the hospital. After all this family has been through, they need the support of each other during this difficult time. In addition to the extreme emotional stress caused by Isaiah's medical condition, neither Rachel nor Reuben have been able to work. Now Reuben will be leaving his job and is considering giving up their home in Fairbanks to cut the cost of rent and utilities. I know any assistance we can give them will help reduce their financial related stress and allow them to focus on their son.

Donations can also be sent directly to them by logging onto www.paypal.com and going to Send Money, type in Rachel’s email notmyown557@yahoo.com or phone number 907-590-7376, and enter your email and the donation amount. The donations will automatically be deposited into Reuben and Rachel's Paypal account. You can also send a donation to Delta Christian Center, PO Box 1329, Delta Jct., Alaska , 99737 and they will send them to Rachel and Reuben in Anchorage.

Please consider helping this family, and most importantly, remember them in your prayers,

Thanks,
Lael R. Echo-Hawk

* Daily updates on Isaiah's condition can be found at the following website www.thestatus.com, you can also send words of encouragement to them via that website.
To log on to www.thestatus.com go to visit a patient page, last name John, password John557

Photo of the day - November 17

Two grouse are seen sharing very little spruce treetop real-estate, in this wintry scene.
Image and copyright by Dwight K. Phillips

Another Email Phishing Attack Uses U.S. Dept of Justice Name

BBB Urges Businesses to Report Suspicious E-mails

DuPont, Wash.,—November 16, 2007—Another phishing attack is hitting local and national businesses. Much like the phishing e-mails that used the Better Business Bureau name last spring, the U.S. Department of Justice recently confirmed that another phishing e-mail attack using the DOJ name has been reported by over 1,000 callers in the past two days.

Phishing e-mails are often used to entice recipients to access potentially damaging hyperlinks in order to steal personal information. The DOJ instructs anyone who has received this most recent e-mail, or a similar one, to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. An example of the recent phishing e-mail is included below.

In order to combat these recent phishing e-mail attacks, your local BBB offers the following tips:

• Do not be fooled by the use of a legitimate organization’s name within these messages. Scammers have been known to use the Department of Justice’s name and the BBB name as well as the names of banks and other legitimate companies.
• Do not click on active links or open any attachments within the e-mail. These links and attachments often contain viruses which can damage your computer.
• If you have already clicked on a link or opened an attachment, your computer’s security may have been compromised. Have your company’s IT person or a computer expert look at your computer.
• Be sure to have updated firewalls and spam blockers installed in your computer.
• Report any suspicious e-mails to the FBI by filing at www.ic3.gov.
• Visit www.bbb.org to find out more about recent security alerts.

North Richardson Highway - Corridor Partnership Plan

My name is Julianne Hanson and I am the project manager for the North Richardson Scenic Byway Corridor Partnership Plan (CPP). The goal of this project is to develop a plan that represents the complete story of the corridor and its community and resources. Completion of the CPP will make the North Richardson Scenic Byway eligible for federal grant funds provided by the National Scenic Byways Program.

One of our first tasks is to develop a list of people interested in participating in the project. If you know of anyone else that may be interested in this project, please send me their email address for our distribution list. If you would like to be involved and continue to receive project related communications, you don’t need to do a thing. If you would like to be removed from the project distribution list, please send me an email indicating your desire.

You, or someone you know, may want to be involved as a stakeholder because of an interest in maintaining, enhancing and promoting the byway corridor and its resources. We want to ensure we have a mix of people with varying backgrounds, talents and skills involved in the plan development.

We are planning on holding a project kickoff meeting in Fairbanks on January 8 and in Delta Junction on January 9. Details about meeting times and locations will follow.

We are excited to learn about the North Richardson Highway community, meet you, and develop a sustainable plan for your corridor!

Also, check our website for upcoming project information: http://northrichardsoncpp.c-b.com

Photo of the day - November 16

Mike Shetler (class of 02) arrived at Ft. Carson, CO Nov. 13 after a 15 month tour in Iraq. Bobbi and Craig Gillio (aunt and uncle), Mike and mom. Photo Courtesy Gail Shetler.
Welcome home Mike! Thank you for your service to our country.

Photo of the day - November 15

This grouse is seen feeding on poplar buds in the photographers front yard, earlier in the spring. Photo Courtesy Dwight Phillips

Christmas Shopping - 41 days left

Where did the time go? Can you believe it is almost Christmas? There are many local places you can go and purchase your Christmas gifts this year. Have you ever stopped and considered all the places our little town has to shop in?

New this year - Open Until Christmas! Starvin’ Artists Holiday Gallery. Local Artists. Open through Christmas Eve from 12 to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Above Mt. McKinley Bank in the Columbo Building. The gallery features stained glass, photography, beadwork, mosaics, jewelry, furs and great gifts. Find quality Christmas gifts without traveling to Fairbanks.

DHS Husky Christmas Bazaar. Come to the 2nd Annual Husky Christmas Bazaar on Dec. 1st from 10 to 4! Get a picture with Santa or come shop for gifts or just munch on some homemade goodies as you browse the tables. If you are interested in purchasing table space for $20.00, contact Denise Coakley at 895-4657 or dcoakley@dgsd.k12.ak.us. Help support the efforts of Delta High School clubs and activities.

CB Crafts and Gifts. We are open Tue.- Sat. 10:00 -4:30, we are at 3.6 miles on Jack Warren Road, the first road to the left after the trailer park on the left just past the gray house fellow the road around to the left watch for sign. or call 907-895-1987.
M & W Ceramics & Gifts -Toys, Blankets, Clothes; Quillos; Polar fleece blankets; Birthday knick-knacks; Thanksgiving, Christmas & Birthday decorations; Toys & Gifts; Crafts by local artists; Woodburnings; Birch baskets; Caribou horn eagles; Grass baskets; Alaska Clay souvenirs; Alaskan honey; Knives; Watches, & Swords. Classes start at 7 PM, come in ahead of time to sign up & pay for class ($10 plus supplies) Diehl’s Mall. Contact Mary Woodbury 895-3250 Open Monday and Wednesday through Saturday 11 AM – 5:30 PM.

Tenderfoot Pottery is a local pottery established since 1987. We feature hand thrown pottery made by Shellie Mathews who has been making pottery for 25 years. Her pottery is functional, food safe and meant to be used in your daily food preparation. Visit Tenderfoot Pottery located near mile 294 on the Richardson Highway. Open daily from 9-9. Contact Shellie Mathews at 895-4039.
WillowWood Gift Shop is currently located in downtown Delta Jct., in the Mt. Hayes building. They carry an assortment of cards, gifts and collectibles, and when time allows, they continue to manufacture their own unique gift items as well as marketing those of other Alaskan artists.

Grammas Baby Stuff. All homemade baby stuff for your infant and toddler. See Gayle's website. Contact 907-895-5261

Acacia Floral has many things to offer. Located on Nistler Road. You can't miss the big beautiful building.

Perhaps you are into big toys. Check out Arctic Cat also located on Nistler Road. Polaris Junction located on the Richardson Highway.

Granite View has many Alaskan gifts to offer as well, located across from the Visitors Center.

If you have a builder or a handyman in the house, check out Interior Building Supply and Delta Building Supply.

For the secretary, you can check out Busy Bee Office Supply located in the AMC Building on the Alcan Highway.

Wow, here is a list of 14 different places to do some holiday shopping. Have fun with your Christmas shopping this year, and if you visit one of these places, mention that you read about them on the Delta News Web.

Happy Shopping!

Chinook by George M Hosier II - In Memoriam

I lost one of my best friends recently. My dog Vazhneya passed away suddenly on the evening of Saturday, October 27th, apparently succumbing to a stroke or heart attack. I think she must have infected me with some sort of communicable allergy in her final moments, because every time I think about her, I’ve noticed that my eyes begin to water and sting accompanied by a heavy, empty feeling in my chest

We had taken a walk that morning as we had done every morning for 8 years. Vazh, as we called her, had awakened me with a cold nose thrust insistently into my sleeping face and an eloquent little dance of excited urgency beside the bed. I stumbled out from beneath the covers, muttering bleakly as I slipped on my slippers and shrugged into a coat.

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

Photo of the day - November 14

Here is a picture of a sunrise taken outside of the classroom on November 9.
Photo taken by Cruz Hernandez.

Local Drama Association to Depict Time Travel Plot

What would happen if a couple of twenty-first century teenagers from Philadelphia and a pair of ancient Judean siblings were to experience a space-time anomaly that brought them together at the manger in Bethlehem on the first Christmas? A creative answer to that question will be explored when Delta Christian Drama Association stages “Fullness of Time” at Living Waters Assembly of God, November 30th through December 2nd.

This year, in order to accommodate the hectic holiday rush, DCDA will be presenting their Christmas production earlier in the season than usual, so make a note on your calendar not to miss the excitement. The shows will start at 7:00pm each night. We strongly recommend that you arrive early in order to find a good seat.

With another original script and a commitment to professionalism, the DCDA cast and crew promises to deliver a Christmas message that will both entertain and inspire. Your preconceptions about the way Jesus’ birth really happened will be challenged with the modern teenage characters for whom Christmas has grown trite and superficial. You will learn the humble ways of the Prince of peace with the ancient Judean characters who are chafing under the yoke of oppression. You will laugh at the absurd misunderstandings created by the culture clash. You will worship in hushed awe at the miracle of Incarnation as Mary holds the newborn Christ Child in her arms.

Admission is free, and the show will be completely family friendly, so bring a group of friends to Fullness of Time and kick off the 2007 Christmas celebrations in style.

Photo of the day - November 13

Mount McKinley taken earlier this year in the fall time. Photo Courtesy Jason Langiewicz

Photo of the day - November 10

Butch with his dog Chase

Chase and Bailey are brother and sister. Bailey belongs to Cody.

Fin, Fur & Feathers Wild Game Feed - Fundraiser for Butch Ellis and family - 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, November 11, 2007 - Clearwater Lodge - Dinner, auction, and door prizes
Dinner will be served from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. ($15.00/adults and $7.00/children, 12 & under)
Contacts: Sharon Kezer/895-5400, Sherry Olsen/895-1806, Dana Nichols/322-5028

Important Notice - Fundraiser for Butch Ellis

The fundraiser for Butch and family is on Sunday, November 11, not on Saturday as printed in this weeks Delta Wind.

Supreme Court Orders Two Judges to Vacate Seats

(November 9, 2007, Anchorage, Alaska) - Today the Alaska Supreme Court issued a decision in the State v. Jeffery case and determined that Barrow Superior Court Judge Michael Jeffery and Anchorage District Court Judge Nancy Nolan should not have appeared on the 2004 General Election ballot for retention, and ordered them to “vacate their seats within ninety days after this decision takes effect per Appellate Rule 507(b)” [explained below*].

“There are clear requirements within the law setting out the filing requirements and deadlines for all candidates. The Division of Elections followed the law, and is pleased that the Alaska Supreme Court agreed,” said Division of Elections Director Whitney Brewster. “It is imperative that the Division enforce those requirements consistently in order to conduct fair elections.”

In 2004, a superior court judge, William Morse, granted a temporary restraining order and ordered the Division to put the names of Judges Jeffery and Nolan on the 2004 General Election ballot. Both judges were retained in the election. On July 28, 2005, Judge Morse issued a decision holding that the judges’ submission of retention information to the Alaska Judicial Council was a sufficient declaration of candidacy to meet the statutory requirements.

The Division of Elections appealed the decision to the Alaska Supreme Court, and today that court reversed the lower court’s decision.

The Supreme Court said that the statute governing declarations of candidacy is clear. Under Alaska law superior and district court judges up for retention must file a declaration of candidacy with the Director of Elections no later than August 1 before the general election (AS 15.35.070 and 15.35.110).

The Court also noted that both the Judicial Council and the Division of Elections had reminded the judges to file the declarations by August 1, and that the judges had acknowledged in the letters accompanying their late-filed declarations that they had overlooked the deadline. The court determined that the determination of the Division of Elections that the judges had failed to comply with the deadline was supported by the facts and had a reasonable basis in law.

The Alaska Constitution provides that, “the office of any * * * superior court judge becomes vacant ninety days after the election at which he is rejected by a majority of those voting on the question, or for which he fails to file his declaration of candidacy to succeed himself.” A state statute applies the same language to district court judges, and the judges failed to timely file.
The decision was authored by Justice Eastaugh, joined in the majority by Justices Matthew and Carpeneti. Justice Fabe recused herself, and Justice Bryner dissented.

[*Under Rule 507(a), the decision takes effect on the day after the time for filing a petition for rehearing expires (within 10 days of the decision) if no timely petition for rehearing is filed; or on the day after the supreme court disposes of the case on rehearing, if a timely petition for rehearing is filed.]

Media inquiries should be directed to Whitney Brewster, Director, Alaska Division of Elections, at 375-6400.

Photo of the day - November 9

This is a night time view of the Ft. Greely lights taken from near Donnelly Dome.
Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Co-op milking for time

PALMER — The manager of a fledgling dairy cooperative says the venture could begin producing cheese from Mat-Su Valley milk products by mid-December.

Former dairy farmer Kyle Beus said the co-op has found a building suitable for a production plant and processing equipment is on its way. Topping the co-op’s list of concerns now is the potential for a lag between the scheduled Dec. 10 shutdown of Matanuska Maid Dairy and the startup of the new production facility. During any gap local dairy farmers would have no place to sell their milk.

Northern Lights Dairy in Delta Junction will continue to purchase 40 to 50 percent of the area’s milk products, Beus said.

To read the entire story see the Frontiersman

Mixing Zones Initiative Application Certified

November 8, 2007, Anchorage, Alaska – An initiative that would prohibit mixing zones in water used by salmon and resident fish has cleared its first legal review, and Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell today certified the initiative known as 07WIFI. Certification of this initiative allows the initiative sponsors to proceed with gathering signatures required to place the measure on the ballot.

Lieutenant Governor Parnell’s decision to certify the initiative was supported by a Department of Law legal opinion. The Department of Law’s opinion, dated November 8, 2007, concluded that the bill and application are in the proper form, and that the application complies with the constitutional and statutory provisions governing the use of the initiative.

Petition booklets will be prepared for the sponsors of the initiative by the Alaska Division of Elections. The sponsors will need to collect at least 23,831 valid signatures from qualified voters in 30 election districts in order for the proposed bill to be placed on a ballot.

The lieutenant governor’s letter to the initiative’s sponsors is available online.

The Department of Law’s legal opinion is available online.

The Division of Elections’ memorandum is available online.

Photo of the day - November 8

Taken Oct 27 at the Clearwater. Goldeneye. Photo Courtesy Jason Langiewicz

Holiday Marketplace 2007

The Holiday Marketplace is a one stop Christmas shopping extravaganza for Fairbanks and outlying areas. From hand made soap, to beaded earrings, to imported wool sweaters... Its all together in one location on one floor with lots of free parking.

The shows continued success attracts not only local but statewide businesses and artists. Over 175 different vendors participated in the 2006 event and it had a 3 day public attendance of 7,178.

The Holiday Marketplace has become an established, highly anticipated, annual event that Fairbanks consumers use as the kick off to their holiday shopping season. It is an excellent chance for you, the vendor, to market your goods to a wide cross section of our community. Early registration indicates another sold out event. Don't miss this once-a-year, opportunity to be part of the excitement, profit, and fun.

Prefrence will be given to hand made in Alaska items and items unique to the event.

It's taking place at the Carlson Center, the interior's premier location for trade shows. There's over 43,000 sq. ft. of available space and the unique layout of this show provides 112 corner spaces with additional aisles for great traffic flowThe dates for the 2007 event are November 9, 10, & 11. Six weeks before Christmas ...giving shoppers plenty of time to get those out of state gifts in the mail.

Information taken from the KO Productions Inc. website

WillowWood Gift Shop Moving

WillowWood Gift Shop is moving and has begun a SALE which will run to the end of the year.

Every effort will be made to re-locate as soon as possible.

Thank you for your patronage and understanding, and enjoy the sale.

Fish & Game Habitat Initiative Application Certified

November 7, 2007, Anchorage, Alaska – Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell certified an initiative that would return fisheries habitat provisions back to the Department of Fish and Game from the Department of Natural Resources. Certification of this initiative, known as 07FISH, allows the initiative sponsors to proceed with gathering signatures required to place the measure on the ballot.

Lieutenant Governor Parnell’s decision to certify the initiative was supported by a Department of Law legal opinion, dated November 7, 2007, which concluded that the bill and application are in the proper form, and that the application complies with the constitutional and statutory provisions governing the use of the initiative.

Petition booklets will be prepared for the sponsors of the initiative by the Alaska Division of Elections. The sponsors will need to collect at least 23,831 valid signatures from qualified voters in 30 election districts in order for the proposed bill to be placed on a ballot.

The lieutenant governor’s letter to the initiative’s sponsors is available online.

The Department of Law’s legal opinion is available online.

The Division of Elections’ memorandum is available online.

Lieutenant Governor Appeals 07WATR Decision

November 7, 2007, Anchorage, Alaska - Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell on Friday, November 2, formally appealed a Superior Court decision on an initiative relating to water and mining. After denial of certification for the first initiative (07WATR), the sponsors won summary judgment in the Superior Court that overturned the lieutenant governor’s decision. Though the lieutenant governor has complied with the court order to produce signature booklets for the sponsors, he appealed the lower court's decision to the Alaska Supreme Court to obtain finality on the legal question involved.

Specifically, the Alaska Supreme Court has been asked to decide whether the initiative, which prohibits certain uses of water by mining companies, represents an appropriation of the water resource from one user group to another. If so, the law prohibits this kind of appropriation from being made via an initiative, as Alaska's Constitution reserves such appropriations of public resources to the legislature.

Photo of the day - November 7

A few Christmas ornaments were recently put up along a trail to avoid putting them up later when it’s really cold outside. Photo Courtesy Fronty Parker

Deployment Ceremony

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska – Task Force 49 will hold a deployment ceremony at the Physical Fitness Center here Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. U.S. Army Alaska's aviation brigade will honor soldiers from the unit’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company who will deploy to Iraq this month.

While deployed, the unit will be one of four aviation-brigade headquarters and will provide full-spectrum aviation support to units in the theater. Officials expect the deployment to last approximately 9 months.

The task force headquarters of approximately 130 soldiers includes pilots and staff personnel to lead and support aviation units in Iraq. Soldiers from other units, including the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division; 1st Battalion, 52nd Aviation Regiment; 6th Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment; U.S. Army Alaska and U.S. Army Pacific Headquarters round out the Task Force 49 Headquarters to fully staff it as a medium combat aviation brigade to accomplish their mission in Iraq.

Task Force 49 remains responsible for aviation support in Alaska.

General seating at the ceremony will be limited.

If you wish to send a reporter to the ceremony, please contact Public Affairs at 353-6701 by 11 a.m. Nov. 8.

Linda L. Douglass
Post Public Affairs Officer

Photo of the day - November 6

The combination of mountains and water provide for a winning combination when it comes to sunsets in the Summit Lake area. Image by Dwight Phillips

Army Band Concert

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska - The 9th Army “Arctic Warrior” Band will present a concert to honor our nation’s veterans Friday at 7 p.m. at the West Valley High School Performing Arts Center.

The Alaska Big Band, under the direction of Sgt. 1st Class John Berger, will play a variety of patriotic and swing music.

The concert is free and is open to the public.

Linda L. Douglass
Post Public Affairs Officer

Photo of the day - November 5

Photo of sunset take on Shaw Creek Road. Photo courtesy of Erin Trainor.

Halloween Bash Photos

The Halloween Bash went really well. Over two-hundred people attended. There were lots of really great costumes. Thank you to all the volunteers who came out to make this event a success.

Halloween Bash Photos

Halloween Bash Photos

BBB Releases Travel Recommendations for the Holiday Season

The winter holidays are a busy time for shopping, getting together with friends and family and, of course, traveling. Given the increase number of people traveling on the roads and in the air, the BBB offers the following tips:
Remember not to take any wrapped or sealed packages; they may be chosen for inspection.

• Try to mail packages ahead of time and shop online or through catalogs to have items sent directly to the recipient. Several companies, including Federal Express, UPS, and major bus lines, offer luggage-forwarding services.
• Plan your travel schedule carefully to avoid the heaviest days. Not only are roads and airports packed with holiday travelers, but adverse weather conditions can also hinder your trip.
• Consider leaving a day earlier or later to avoid peak travel days such as the Friday before Christmas (Dec. 20), Christmas Eve (Dec. 24), and New Year's Eve. Traveling on the holidays themselves (Dec. 25 or Jan. 1) is also a good way to avoid traffic.
• Consider buying travel insurance. This can protect against trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation, emergency medical expenses, baggage loss and baggage delay.
• If using a travel agency or bureau, request all details of the trip in writing, including total cost, restrictions where applicable, cancellation penalties, and exact names of the airlines and hotels included in the packet, before you pay.
• Check expiration dates and added fees on coupons or accommodation packages. Contact the actual airline, hotel, or other accommodation provider to ask questions.
• Be cautious of high-pressure sales. Any reputable travel agency or tour operator will not take your money without giving you the details of your vacation, tailoring it to your needs and requests.
• Always request a reliability report from your Better Business Bureau.

For more information about holiday travel or travel agencies, contact your Better Business Bureau online .

Brenda Smith
Better Business Bureau
PR/Communications Manager

Cable TV Returns to Delta

For the past few months, David Steward has been driving all over Delta Junction laying cable for the 30-channel service he provides through Denali Wireless Television.

A company called High Tech previously provided cable to Delta Junction but went out of business about seven years ago. Since then, Delta Junction residents have been watching TV either via “rabbit ear” antennae or satellite dishes.

Steward purchased the company's infrastructure , which was previously owned by High Tech, and upgraded it. To read the complete story see the Fairbanks Daily News Miner

Photo of the day - November 3

This male pine grosbeak was visiting my bird feeders in October.
Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Daylight Saving Time Ends

Daylight Saving Time, also known as "Summer Time", begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November (but not in Arizona and Hawaii).

The clock goes forward one hour at 2:00 AM on the second Sunday in March and back to normal time at 2:00 AM on the first Sunday in November.

These dates were recently modified with the passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Prior to 2007, daylight time in the United States began on the first Sunday in April and ended on the last Sunday in October.

Photo of the day - November 2

Mama moose was nice enough to let me get this close. Photo Courtesy Lisa Labaska

Butch Ellis Benefit - Fin, Fur & Feathers

There will be a benefit/fundraiser for the Butch Ellis Family November 11th at your local Clearwater Lodge.

The Fin, Fur & Feathers Wild Game Feed kicks off at 3 p.m.. Dinner will be served from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.. Menu will consist of your choice of Alaskan game with all the fixin's. These will be prepared by some of Delta's finest chefs. To add to this homegrown feast will be an auction of donated items and door prizes to boot.

Cost is adults - $15.00 and children 12 & under $7.00.

For more information contact Sharon Kezer; 895-5400, Sherry Olsen; 895-1806, Dana Nichols; 322-5028.

Mark this date on the kitchen calendar and lend your support to a great Delta Family.

Starvin' Artists Holiday Gallery

Opening Doors at the Starvin' Artists Holiday Gallery

November 9, noon - 7PM

Gallery hours: noon - 7 PM Days: Monday - Saturday

Columbo Building - Above Mt. McKinley Bank

8 local Artists and Photographers Work

Time to pick up some of your Christmas presents, made by local artists and photographers in Delta Jct.

Photo of the day - November 1

I caught a picture of this black-capped chickadee cracking open a black oil sunflower seed at my bird feeder recently. Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Chinook by George M Hosier II - The Question

Everywhere I go lately, I inevitably run into some grinning character who asks me the question, “Are you ready for winter?” What kind of question is that? I don’t care if it is an ancient Alaskan ritual. It’s primitive and degrading! The way the ritual works is that it must be performed upon every victim you can corner, beginning with the first snowfall, and continuing until somebody cold cocks you.

Why would you even want to ask somebody a sensitive personal question like that? That’s like saying, “So, have you ever declared bankruptcy?” Or, “Do you wear Depends?” Or, “Would you like me to recommend a good ugliatrician who can surgically implant a paper bag over your face?” Come-on, folks! I mean, there’s gloating, and then there’s gloating.

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

Photo of the day - October 31

Taken Oct 27 at the Clearwater. Red-breasted Merganser.
Photo Courtesy Jason Langiewicz