Photo of the day - December 30

This photo was taken at Rika's Roadhouse. Even though you can't see the river, one knows it's there because of the tell-tale fog rising off of it. The sunlight was reflected off of the frost coated trees across the river. Photo courtesy Barb Tharp

Photo of the day - December 29

This photo by Carol Watkins sports a couple of inquisitive looking bison, located at Alaska Interior Game Ranch, owned and operated by Scott and Ruby Hollembaek.

Delta Library Theft

Would the person who took seven (7) children's DVD's from the Delta Library last week and left all the empty boxes hidden in the bookshelves please return the movies? It's usually "no questions asked" but in this case, I have to wonder: Why would you steal what you can borrow for free? Here's your chance to do the right thing.

The movie titles are: Great Expectations, Black Beauty, Meet the Robinsons, Quest for Camelot, Walt Disney's Enchanted, The Three Stooges and Cartoon Craze All Stars, Volume One.

Thank you.
Joyce McCombs,
Delta Library Director

Photo of the day - December 28

One of the more easy to spot birds, the white crowned sparrow sits in this willow tree singing a happy song. Photos courtesy Dwight Phillips.

Photo of the day - December 25

This male pine grosbeak is one of the last of the song-type birds to leave the cold of interior Alaska. Actually a small hand full of them stay year around depending on the severity of the arctic winter and full bird feeders. Photo by Steve Thomas

Photo of the day - December 24

Another wonderful sunset in Alaska. This photo was taken on Remington Road with some fog barely visible in the shadows, August 8, 2009 at 9:02 pm. Photo courtesy Barbara Tharp.

Photo of the day - December 23

A red tailed hawk drops a wing to stretch while sitting in a willow tree. Photo courtesy of Dwight Phillips.

DHS Athletic Department Advertising for 2010

We are hoping to feature your business on the Spring 2010 season for Delta Junction High School, AK. We are contracted with Daniel Klein, Athletic Director. Please click on the image above for a photo enlargment, you can find more information on our website.

Note: The posters will be placed in supporting businesses around the area and many more are given to the Athletic Department to put-up around the school or wherever they decide to have them.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Robert Marrs
All American Publishing
(888) 357-9911 Ext. 3364

Photo of the day - December 22

I was out by Bolio Lake and seen the crescent moon over Donnelly Dome, so I wanted to take a photo of it to share with the community. Photo Courtesy Richard Mitchell

Holiday Events

If your organization or business is having a special event during the Christmas/New Years season, please send it to the DNW, so we can add it on the front page. 

This would be Christmas Eve services, Christmas Day events, Holiday Closures with dates, New Years Eve parties.  Please email Delta News Web.

Photo of the day - December 21

"A fantastic view from the plane, flying from Alaska to Seattle. Photo by Audrey Brown"

What is in Your Heart by Pastor Howard Echo-Hawk

This is the time of the year when the world thinks of the baby from Heaven.


Have you wondered what was in the Mother's heart?

What is in your heart?

This I know about your heart....
there is room for Him if you but open the door.

Howard Echo-Hawk
Pastor Delta Christian Center

Mary, Did You Know?

Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Would one day walk on water?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Has come to make you new;
This Child that you delivered
Will soon deliver you.

Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will give sight to a blind man?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will calm the storm with His hand?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Has walked where Angels trod?
When you kiss your Little Baby,
You kiss the Face of God!

Oh, Mary, did you know?
Oh, Mary, did you know?

The blind will see, the deaf will hear,
The dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak
The praises of the lamb!

Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Is Heaven's Perfect Lamb?
This sleeping Child you're holding
Is the Great I Am!

A version of "Mary, Did You Know?" is on the web page and is from Kenny Roger's CD called "The Gift". The words were written by Mark Lowry and the music was written by Buddy Greene. This version was sung by Kenny Rogers and Wynonna Judd.

Alumni Photos Tay Sarver Key and Family

Grandma Liz Sarver with Austin Key

Grandpa Mike Sarver with Austin Key

Tay Sarver Key (DHS 1998 grad) with son Austin Key

We invite you to browse thru our other alumni photos. Please click here.

Photo of the day - December 19

The snowshoe hares didn't fair too well this fall/early winter as this hare shows. It still has its summer camouflage with just a tinge of white. Its ears starting to change to its winter white. Then as the hares turned white all the early snow melted and they stood out like a sore thumb once again to their many predators. Photo by Steve Thomas

2009 Gingerbread House Contest Results

Category #1 (Handmade)

Child Division - Ages 4-7
1st Place - Delta Library Story Hour Kids

Youth Division - Ages 8-11
1st Place - Augusta Anderson

Category #2
(Kit Gingerbread Houses)

Child Division - Ages 4-7
1st Place - Kraig & Dustin Peterson
2nd Place - Tyler Hudgin
3rd Place - Brendan Hudgin

Youth Division - Ages 8-11
1st Place - Samantha Smith

Adult Division - Ages 18 & Up
1st Place - Nancy King
2nd Place - Becky Peterson with help from Kraig & Dustin Peterson
3rd Place Rousheen Wolf

People's Choice Awards!
Child Division - Ages 4-7
Dustin & Kraig Peterson

Youth Division - Ages 8-11
Samantha Smith

Adult Division - Ages 18 & Up
Nancy King

2009 Kids Coloring Contest Results

Category 1 Ages 1-3
1st Place - Rayna Tuckwood
2nd Place - Jocelyn Filla
3rd Place - Kainala Kaio

Category 2
Ages 4-5
1st Place - Carter Richards
2nd Place - Amber Klein
3rd Place - Jack-Ryan Peterson

Category 3
Ages 6-7
1st Place - Emily Bevard
2nd Place - Sadie Tuckwood
3rd Place - Joshua Jurva

Category 4
Ages 8-10
1st Place - Ashley Bevard
2nd Place - Natalia Zimerzliuc
3rd Place - Jacob Jurva

FCA Offers Great Family Fun and a Few Ideas for Holiday Giving

Still wondering what you can give your family, grandchildren, sister or other loved ones for the holidays? How about tickets to Imago Theatre's ZooZoo, FCA's family program? It’s personal, memorable and it’s a gift you get to share!
Defying classification, Imago Theater has populated the stage with characters and beings such as comedic amphibians, acrobatic larvae, circus boulders, and metamorphosing humans in works which tantalize the senses and the intellect. ZooZoo brings frogs, rabbits, penguins, hippos and other creatures in a show promising the best of Imago’s family friendly theater.

“A mastery of mime, dance and acrobatics.” —The New York Times

Some may remember Frogz (I know I'll never forget it—or the fun I had with my family afterward discussing what we had liked the best and why). YouTube

As always, we keep our family programs affordable.

Give a gift of fun and song that lasts the whole new year!

Not looking for family entertainment? FCA offers something for every friend and family member. Chose from the raw excitement of Street Beat, the dazzling high energy of Les Yeux Noirs, the soaring beauty of Sharon Isbin and Mark O’Connor, the allure of Ira Glass or a gift certificate for some or all! We promise more stimulation than a stocking full of tube socks while satisfying your need for holiday sparkle.

Tickets are available through AlaskaTix 490-2858, at alaskatix.com or at Grassroots Guitar and gift certificates are available through the FCA office 474-8081. More at fairbanksconcert.org

And speaking of fairbanksconcert.org, have you been there lately? We have been adding new features all the time! We have social media options, new stories being posted all the time, a podcast with FCA director Anne Biberman and just in time for the holidays, an FCA store!

That's right! In response to our members' comments about long lines at Hering to buy CDs, now you can purchase our artists CDs through Amazon and support FCA. http://www.fairbanksconcert.org/news/fca-website-store-opens 4 - 6 % of your purchase will go to support FCA's Education Partnership.

You can find the link at the top right of our site or follow this link:

If you have any questions, give us a call at 474-8081. Anne and Rhonda are waiting to hear from you!

Happy Holidays, and thank you for supporting FCA.

Photo of the day - December 18

A beautiful sunset taken on December around 3 in the afternoon at the corner of Tract 2 and Tract 4 down Sawmill Creek Road. Photo Courtesy Becky Peterson

The Christmas Book by Franklin P Smith

Dear Editor;

Franklin P Smith Press announces the audio collection - The Christmas Book.

The Christmas Book audio collection contains seven original Christmas stories by Franklin P Smith, which have never been written. The variety of these stories ranges from 'The Christmas Stocking' (a new turn on the fable of switches in the stocking of a person who has been not-so-good), through a story about a male cat and how he creates a legend, to "The Christmas Drum' (for those in military service). Each story is totally different from the others, but all together are reflections of the one story of Christmas.

The setting for these stories is the Smoke House - a very particular place that could be anywhere. The owner of this establishment and the men who come to the Smoke House each tell a story, a different one each day during the week before Christmas. Seven old men gather around a black pot-bellied stove and share their stories. You get to watch, and listen, without being seen.

This audio collection will be distributed by Franklin P Smith Press through out the world by Armed Forces Entertainment, USO, PRX and numerous none commercial radio stations world wide. Franklin P Smith Press is also association with AMARC Radio world wide and to non-commercial radio stations that have web sites on the Internet.

For direct access for the public access, go to Franklin P Smith's web site - . Use may use the following URL, user name and password to listen to this extraordinary audio selection:

URL http://franklinpsmithstoryteller.com/broadcast_archives.php // user name is broadcasters // the password is fra5U9ez (this is case sensitive) to download these audio files where you and your news service may enjoy the Christmas audio and the world wide programs.

Franklin P Smith
5629 Waterford Ct.
Morrow, Ga. 30260
770-968-1637

http://www.franklinpsmithstoryteller.com/
fpsmith4@talessmokehouse.com

Enjoy the stories. What is amazing about these Christmas audio stories, people have laugh and cried months after their minds and souls have encountered them.

Senior Housing Fundraiser a Great Success

Dear Editor,


The Deltana Community Services Partnership, a 401 c(3) nonprofit corporation, would like to thank all who helped to make our Senior Housing “Blow Away the Winter Blues” Dinner/Dance Public Awareness Event and Fundraiser, held at the Delta Clearwater Moose Family Center Saturday, December 12, a success. The DCSP is a community oriented and non-political non-profit endeavoring to bring more human services to the Deltana region on a regular basis. This fundraiser was our first to assist in the Market Analysis needed in the Business Plan for a Senior Housing development here in Delta Junction.

Rick Tohm, of the Moose Lodge, and his help in the kitchen prepared a satisfying, delicious meal for all who attended. There were many decadent desserts provided by the DCSP Coalition members that more than satisfied the sweet tooth. The Moose Lodge decorated the dining room in traditional festive Christmas décor with votives, greenery, and proved to be excellent hosts for our event. We also want to thank: our Mayor, Mary Leith-Dowling, who greeted everyone at the ticket table while Ken Farrow on his autoharp filled the atmosphere with holiday music. Silent auction items were donated by local artisans, Mike Martinez and Jamie Kubitskey. Additionally, we want to thank: Northern Comfort for the mix of music, Roger Hozelton’s for his live performance; David Flynn for sound system, music and live entertainment, New Hope Community Church Training Center students and staff for the snowflake table centerpieces. We also want to honor and acknowledge the generous contributions of our DCSP Board members including Rachelle Hill, Barbara Flynn, Joseph Brokus, Cathie Green, David Flynn, Vera Gorban and John Lewis for volunteering to set up, organize clean tables and serve others. And an EXTRA SPECIAL thanks to Luke Sinclair who spent the evening behind the scenes washing all of the dishes while everyone enjoyed the evening.

The event generated over $2,000 in in-kind donations and $2,300 from the event. Most importantly, key community members were present, supported the event, and learned more about the senior housing project and the DCSP goals. Again thanks to all those from the community who participated and volunteered, providing support along with their time and resources, to make the evening an event to be remembered!

DeborahA. Hayes M.Ed,
Project Director and

Deborah Snyder
Project Administrator

Photos are courtesy of Deb Snyder. Please click on the image for a photo enlargment.

Last Chance for Christmas Shopping

It may be cold out side but it will be warm and cheery at the Community Center, Saturday, December 19, 11am -5pm for that last minute shopping.

We have 24 vendeors and lots of good sales for you.

Come on in, have lunch and listen to the Christmas music.

All the vendors wish you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Photo of the day - December 17

This image shows a yellow warbler, back lighted by the warm fall sun as he sits in a poplar tree that has begun to take on its fall colors. This is a very brief period of time in Alaska’s interior.
Photo Courtesy Dwight Phillips

Mt. Hayes, Inc. - Realtors Holiday Hours

Mt. Hayes, Inc. - Realtors will be closed December 23 through December 27 and December 30 through January 3.

Phone messages and emails will be checked daily. Have a safe and happy holiday season!

Photo of the day - December 16

The beauty of an Alaskan winter is shown here at midday on the Delta River. The photo looks warmer than the actual -5 degrees outside. Photo courtesy Barbara Tharp

Alpha Omega Children's Christmas Party

On Saturday the 12th, the stage was set for the annual Delta Children’s Christmas party presented by Alpha Omega Life Care Inc. The stockings wer hung by the chimney with care--oops--I mean the walls were decorated, Santa’s empty throne awaiting, the yummy treats laid out, and the lighted tree blinking merrily. All that was missing was shouting, excited children.

But at 2 o’clock, there they were--eighty or so parents and children crowded into the community center, eating and coloring and photographing. Someone was playing Christmas songs, and retired Pastor Richard Carpenter told us about Saint Nicholas and read the Christmas story.

Then suddenly, what to my wondering eyes should--oops, there I go again--suddenly there was a loud and deep Ho! Ho! Ho!, and there he was, Santa, patting his tummy in glee as he saw all the children waiting.

Only a couple were too terrified to perch on Santa’s knee--flashbulbs flashed, gifts were given out, and then sadly it was time for Santa to leave for his next stop.

And time for Alpha Omega’s friends to help clean up and begin planning for next year--if you missed this one, then right now put it on your calendar--we’ll look forward to seeing you there!

Click on the photo displays for photo enlargements.

Bob Carpenter reciting Twas the Night Before Christmas and the Christmas story. Photo Courtesy Deb Snyder

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

CES Office Hours

From the UAF Cooperative Extension Service
The CES office will be closed December 19 - January 3. Messages will be checked weekly.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Photo of the day - December 15

A recent daybreak at Summit Lake. Photo Courtesy Cindy Lou Aillaud

Two Doggone Scams Target Pet Lovers

Puppy Scams Affect Pet Buyers and Sellers

Anchorage, Alaska – Dec. 14, 2009 – "Puppy scams" are affecting those looking to buy a new puppy and breeders wanting to sell their cherished lines.

"These scams prey on emotions," said Robert W.G. Andrew, CEO of Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington. "They target consumers looking for a pet they can afford or breeders looking for a good home to send their pups."

Scams Targeting Puppy Buyers:
A con artist poses as a breeder and places an ad for inexpensive or free puppies in a newspaper or online classified. The scammer often only communicates through e-mails. The con artist asks the buyer to wire money for shipping, but buyers who send the funds, never receive the puppy.

An Oregon family was looking to welcome two bull dog puppies into their home after losing a family pet in an auto accident. They paid shipping costs via Western Union and later received an e-mail saying they needed to pay for a crate, transfer of ownership and insurance, but 95 percent of these costs would be refunded upon delivery of the puppies. After paying, another e-mail arrived saying the puppies were in California but need funds to cover shots, puppy licenses and state customs, which would be refunded when the dogs arrived. The buyers then realized the situation was a scam and the puppies didn't exist.

To avoid the scam: Deal locally, avoid wiring money and pay when picking up the puppy.

Scams Targeting Puppy Sellers:
A dog owner posts a newspaper or online classified ad to sell their puppies. A scam artist poses as a perspective buyer and e-mails the breeder asking for details about the puppies and requests mailing information for sending payment. The scam artist sends a check for more than the asking price and asks the breeder to forward the extra money to a person or company handling shipping. Breeders who deposit the check usually discover that the money never comes, or arrives but is stolen from another person or business's account. The breeder can be responsible for paying back the money to the rightful owner, including the funds they thought were for shipping, but really went to the scam artist.

An Alaskan Labrador breeder selling a litter of pups has been contacted 2-3 times a day by these scams. In some situations the scam artists try to sound legitimate by talking about how the puppy will play with their children, be loved like a child and that they'll send photos of the puppy at it's new home. Click here for scam e-mail examples.

To avoid the scam: Deal locally, request cash and never forward funds to pay for shipping or other costs.

Photo of the day - December 14

This photo was taken near the mouth of the Delta River around 1 pm, Saturday, December 12, '09. It was a nice crisp cool -5 outside. Ol' Man Frost had splashed a good layer of ice crystals on everything near the river, what with a fog rising from the river in lots places. The sun doesn't rise very far from off the horizon this time of year. Photo Courtesy Barb Tharp

Holiday Bazaar at Community Center

There will be a holiday bazaar at the Delta Community Center.

Saturday, December 19. Time is 11am to 5pm.. Everyone is will come to attend.

There are many vendors and Santa Claus will be in attendance.

DMV Closures

DMV will be closed December 24th-26th  and January 2nd.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Fort Greely Adult Basketball League

The Pyshical Fitness Center has an adult basketball league that runs from January 19, 2009 and ends on April 22, 2009.

Please call the GYM at (907) 873-2696 or the POOL at (907) 873-5665.

Happy Hoilidays to all.
GYM STAFF

Sassy - Open House on December 20

SASSY- Designer-Inspired Handbags & Accessories- will be having a Holiday Open House on Sunday, Dec. 20th. 1-4 p.m.

There will be a door prize drawing and refreshments served.

Directions: The Rich to Jack Warren Road, Jack Warren to Triple H, take a left, and follow the signs.

Call Karla King if you'd like further information, or to book a private party at (907)895-5154 or (907)505-0269.

Photo of the day - December 12

We are at the very bottom of the aurora cycle, so there hasn't been much activity this winter, but we did have a nice aurora recently. This is a picture of that aurora and the Big Dipper over a house in Delta.
Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Photo of the day - December 11

This photo was taken around 1 pm, November 21, when the sun is starting to sink closer to the horizon. It was a nice crisp -15 degrees out. Notice the red orbs to the left of the photo. I had taken two other slightly different shots of the same sky and these red orbs seemed to drift across the photos from one side to the other. Photo courtesy Barbara Tharp

Scams Arrive as Winter Olympics Approach

Avoid Traps When Looking for a Vancouver-Whistler Rental
Anchorage, Alaska – Dec. 10, 2009 – The 2010 Olympics are approaching, but the scams have already arrived.

With Vancouver just a road trip away some locals will make the trek to the games. Better Business Bureau warns perspective vacationers to lookout for scams when searching for Vancouver-Whistler area rentals.
Phony ads for British Columbia rental properties are popping up on Craigslist and other online classifieds, aimed at stealing money from unsuspecting renters.

Victims typically fall for rental scams after responding to an online classified for a rental property. Victims say they were told by the supposed landlord that they needed to wire a large deposit in order to receive the keys to the rental home. When the victims asked if they could check out the property first, the landlords claimed that they were out of the country and could not show the house. Often the real homeowners have their house up for sale – not rent - and had pictures posted online that the scammers steal for their bogus listings.

In one example, according to a Royal Canadian Mounted Police report, a U.S. group attempted to rent a property from a landlord in Whistler, who requested a $2,000 deposit by wire transfer to secure the residence through the 2010 Games. There was an issue with the information provided by the landlord to the renters and Western Union halted the transaction before it could be completed.

BBB advises renters to watch for the following red flags:
• The deal sounds too good to be true. Scammers will often list a rental for a very low price to lure in victims. Find out how comparable listings are priced; and if the rental comes in suspiciously low, walk away.
• The landlord is located elsewhere and prefers to communicate via e-mail. Scammers are known to say they have just been relocated out of the country for a job or missionary work.
• The landlord asks the renter to wire money through wire transfer services, such as Western Union or MoneyGram. Money sent via wire transfer service is extremely difficult to retrieve; and once the scammers have picked it up, there is little recourse—if any—for getting your money back.
• The landlord requires a substantial deposit before handing over the keys or even showing the home. Don’t pay any money before inspecting inside the property. If you cannot travel early to examine the property: ask for a contract with all the terms, details and conditions; make sure the rental is furnished; request proof that the property belongs to the individual; and ask if, after signing the contract, you can pay upon your arrival to the property. Owners renting their home, condominium or apartment for the games are required to have a business license through the City of Vancouver, request a copy (a license is not required to rent a single room).
• If you are looking for accommodations during the 2010 Games, the Olympics has an official Web site, providing a list of hotels, bed and breakfasts, private home rentals and rooms on cruise ships. Check Canadian tourism businesses out at http://www.bbb.org/ . Make sure they are properly licensed. Travel agencies should be licensed with Consumer Protection BC and Property Management firms with the Real Estate Council of British Columbia.

Photo of the day - December 10

The Black-Billed Magpie pictured here, makes a nice natural tree decoration as it comes in for a landing on top of the spruce tree.  Photo by Steve Thomas

Delta/Greely Community Choir Tonight

Annual Christmas Concert will be taking place at the Fort Greely Chapel tonight at  7PM.

This is an Open Event at Fort Greely Chapel. Guests who do not have Fort Greely passes may join us by bringing a driver's license and proof of both registration and insurance. Photo ID's are requested only for passengers over 16. Guests without passes are advised to arrive 15 minutes early.

For All of Our Military ~ We Owe It All To You

Hello....


A few weeks back, I decided to write something for our men and women serving in the military,  and for those who have served in the past....

So I wrote this song,, We Owe it all to you... a newspaper wrote and told me if it were a You Tube video,, he would promote it in his paper... so I then got in contact with AnySoldier.com and was given permission to use the photo's they sent me... next step... my wife put the slide show together... and now we would just like to get it to as many military personal as possible,, just to let them know how we feel...

Thank you for your time
Have a wonderful Christmas
Your friend,
Matty Kaspak

YouTube - We Owe It All To You

Chamber Gift Certificates Available Now

When you can’t think of what to give that special person for Christmas, give Chamber Gift Certificates!

Available in denominations from $10.00 up. Can be used at many local chamber businesses.

Stop by the chamber office and purchase your certificates early.

There are no fees associated with purchasing or redeeming certificates.

Fairbanks Concert Association Tickets Available Now for 2010

Tickets are now available for FCA 2010 concerts:

• Imago Theatre's ZOOZOO
  7 PM, Sunday, January 24th
• Street Beat
  8 PM, Saturday, February 13
• Les Yeux Noirs
  8 PM, Saturday, March 27
• Sharon Isbin and Mark O'Connor
  8 PM Friday, April 9
• Ira Glass
  8 PM, Monday, April 26

Tickets can be purchased by calling AlaskaTix at 490-2858, online at alaskatix.com or at Grassroots Guitar on College Road. Season tickets are still available through the FCA office, information and order forms are available at fairbanksconcert.org. Any questions, call Anne and Rhonda at the Fairbanks Concert Association office at 474-8081.

You may have noticed that we have made a change in our line up! The East Village Opera Company has disbanded and canceled their performance. The good news is that we have been able to secure Street Beat to take their place on the season schedule. Street Beat is a high-energy explosion of urban rhythm, hip hop moves, astonishing break dance acrobatics and a full evening of original entertainment for all ages. Street Beat creator, Ben Hansen and his 8-member company of drummers, musicians and dancers perform what critics have called "… an urbanized journey through percussion," which brings the raw rhythmic originality of many popular street-style performances together in a dynamic and thrilling stage production. They will be performing at 8:00 P.M., Saturday, February 13, 2010 at Hering Auditorium – the same day and time as originally scheduled for EVOC. We are very excited to have them perform for us this season, an opportunity we probably would not have had under normal circumstances.

Check out our new and evolving website! More information on these guest artists can be found on our website.

We are seeking donations of Alaska Airlines miles to help bring Street Beat to Fairbanks. If you have miles available and would like free tickets to see Street Beat, call the office and we'll explain how, 474-8081

Alaska Small Business Development Center

These non-credit workshops are given through the Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC). No grades are given in these workshops and they do not appear on your  UAF academic record (transcripts). You must register for these workshops online by calling the Alaska SBDC Great North office at 456-7232 or (800)478-1701. The Great North office is located at TVC, 604 Barnette Street in Room 220.
The SBDC program is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Schedule is subject to change and can be confirmed online.

Spring 2010

January
Tues. Jan. 19 Starting a Small Business 9:30am -4pm If you are considering self-employment, then this workshop is a must. You will learn specific principals for business success, including tips on planning, marketing, record keeping, taxes, insurance, and financing your business.   Fee $45

Wed. Jan 20 How to Write a Business Plan 11am -2pm. Increase your odds of small business success by learning how to prepare a strategic business plan. Sound business plans are required by lending institutions and equity investors in order to determine potential business viability for loan or investment. Fee $30

Tues. Jan 26 Payroll Tax 6pm -9pm. Failure to comply with government regulations for payroll withholdings
and deposits can be a costly mistake for small businesses. You will learn about payroll record keeping, withholdings and deposits in the practical introductory workshop. Fee $30

February
Thurs. Feb 18 Marketing Your Business 9:30a-12:30pm. Do you ever wonder if your advertising is effective, or need new ideas to promote your business? This workshop teaches you how to increase your number of customers through promotion, advertising, personal selling and other marketing techniques. It will also provide tips on targeting your customer and increasing customer satisfaction. Fee$30

Wed. Feb 24 Starting a Small Business 9:30am -4pm. If you are considering self-employment, then this workshop is a must. You will learn specific principals for business success, including tips on planning, marketing, record keeping, taxes, insurance, and financing your business. Fee $45

Thurs. Feb 25 How to Write a Business Plan 11am- 2pm. Increase your odds of small business success by learning how to prepare a strategic business plan. Sound business plans are required by lending institutions and equity investors in order to determine potential business viability for loan or investment. Fee$30

March
Wed. March 10 Record Keeping 6pm-9pm In this session you will cover the purpose of record keeping, how to inventory raw materials, work in process and finished goods, tracking consignments, developing a production and shipping schedule, maintaining a show and competition log, and documentation for tax purposes. Fee $30

Tues. March 16 Starting a Small Business 9:30am -4pm If you are considering self-employment, then this workshop is a must. You will learn specific principals for business success, including tips on planning, marketing, record keeping, taxes, insurance, and financing your business. Fee $45

Wed. March 24 How to Write a Business Plan 11am-2pm. Increase your odds of small business success by learning how to prepare a strategic business plan. Sound business plans are required by lending institutions and equity investors in order to determine potential business viability for loan or investment. Fee $30

April
Tues. April 20 Selecting a Legal Business Form 6pm-9pm Participants will learn the basic steps and requirements to form a Limited Liability Company and incorporating in the State of Alaska. This workshop will include discussions relating to Limited Liability Companies and C & S Corporations, including the pros and cons of each as compared to other business types. Fee $30

Wed. April 21 Starting a Small Business 9:30am- 4pm. If you are considering self-employment, then this workshop is a must. You will learn specific principals for business success, including tips on planning, marketing, record keeping, taxes, insurance, and financing your business. Fee $45
Thurs. April 22 How to Write a Business Plan 1pm -4pm. Increase your odds of small business success by learning how to prepare a strategic business plan. Sound business plans are required by lending institutions and equity investors in order to determine potential business viability for loan or investment. Fee$30

Cancellation Policy
There is a 48 hour cancellation policy. To receive a full refund you must cancel your registration within two business days of the event. No refunds will be given after this date. To help you in the event of unavoidable, last minute cancellations, all registrations can be transferred to the next class, or a class of equal dollar value. All registrations are transferable to another person upon your request.

The Check-Out Checklist

BBB Reveals 3 Retail Receipt Red Flags
Anchorage, Alaska – Dec. 9, 2009 – Lookout for cashier-receipt scams during the busy retail shopping season, warns Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington.

Cash-Back: Beware of unwanted cash-back withdrawals on retail purchase receipts. In hopes that it will go unnoticed, the cashier may apply cash-back requests on credit or debit card transactions so that they can pocket the money. To avoid getting caught in the act, the cashier may hand the cash-back or "change" to the next person in line—which is actually the cashier's friend or accomplice.

Missing Merchandise: Products make it to the check-out stand, but not into the shopping bag. Instead, the clerk hides the loot behind the counter and keeps the buyer's new belonging. This dishonest practice is easier to commit against consumers who buy a higher volume of goods.

Double-Charged Items: Unethical retailers may deliberately try to double-scan or charge twice for the same product to increase their revenue. Thus, the company is able to make more profit while retaining inventory.

BBB reminds purchasers to protect their pockets with the following check-out checklist:

√ Watch the register tally. Observe the screen on the payment processing device. Make sure that the retailer isn't duplicating charges on the same goods or collecting cash-back without authorization. Also, confirm that sale merchandise rang up at the discounted price.

√ Always get a receipt and inspect the receipt at the register. Count items before leaving the store. Compare purchases to the receipt to ensure that all merchandise is accounted for.

√ Contest inaccuracies. If mistakes are found, don't be afraid to ask the cashier to correct or clear out the transaction and start over. Make sure that the cashier reverses unnecessary cash-back requests immediately; most credit cards charge the cardholder fees on cash advances.

Keep in mind that a cashier or receipt error may be an unintentional mistake; however, if it occurs continually, promptly notify the store's management. Consumers unable to resolve a transaction issue or receipt dispute with the business can file a complaint at http://www.bbb.org/.

Photo of the day - December 9

While driving home, I noticed a rainbow at sunset (aka sundog) a couple of weeks ago.
Photo Courtesy Dawn Shinn

Sundogs are formed by plate shaped hexagonal ice crystals in high and cold cirrus clouds or - during very cold weather - by ice crystals called diamond dust drifting in the air at low level. Sundog forming rays enter a near vertical prism side face of a crystal and exit through a second side face inclined 60° to the first. There is net refraction at each face and the light is dispersed into colors. There is no single angle of deviation through the crystal, which effectively acts as a 60 degree prism, but the minimum angle of deviation is ~22°. This corresponds to the distance of the inner edge of the sundog from the sun when the sun is low. For more information click here.

Photo of the day - December 8

A fledgling great horned owl sits slightly off the forest floor on a small branch after initially testing his flying skills. Photo courtesy Dwight Phillips.

Test and Information Sessions for Census Bureau Work Set for Thursday

Test and Information Sessions Census Bureau Work / Delta Junction and Ft. Greely


2 sessions will take place on Thursday, December 10.

1:00PM - City Hall Conference Room
3:30PM - City Hall Conference Room

Work will be the last part of January and the first part of February. Pay is $25.00-$26.50/hour for crew leaders and enumerators, plus 55¢/mile. Call 1-866-861-2010 to schedule appointment or just come to the session. Bring two pieces of ID or a current passport. Bilingual persons are welcome. Sample tests can be down loaded online or picked up at City Hall.

Reminder ~ Blow Away the Winter Blues

A public awareness and fund raising event for the non-profit Deltana partnership!

Dinner and Music by Northern Comfort Entertainment. Come and dance the night away!

December 12, 2009 6:00 pm Delta Moose Lodge

Proceeds will assist constructing senior housing in our community

$25.00 per person or $45.00 couples

Menu includes chicken, spaghetti with meat sauce, salad, vegetables and dessert. No host bar. For tickets and information stop by 2395 Kimball street, downstairs, phone 895-3234 or contact a coalition member

Tickets are also available at the door!

Project Christmas 2009

Scripture teaches us, “you shall love the Lord, your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength” and “you shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:30-31)
This has been the foundation for Project Christmas, which over the years has been managed by different people, groups and Churches. The goal is to assist those in our community who have a hard time to meet even the most basic needs.

If you know of someone who is in need of a food-box this Christmas-time, please take the time to nominate the individual or family for Project Christmas through any of the pastors in the community. The Delta Christian Ministerial Association continues to sponsor the program, hosted by Delta Presbyterian and Faith Lutheran Churches and the pastors of our local churches will meet on Sunday, December 13th at 4pm, so that we together can match existing resources with the people in the most need.

Please also consider a donation for the project. This can be done through any of the churches in the community (if you want to deduct your donation from your taxes), or by a direct deposit through Wells Fargo Bank or Mt McKinley Bank or by using the collection cans located at, IGA, Buffalo Diner, Busy Bee, Granite View, Jack’s, Buffalo Fuel, Mt McKinley Bank or Wells Fargo Bank.

A few years ago when Delta Presbyterian and Faith Lutheran began hosting the project, we also accepted actual food donations, unfortunately we had to discontinue this, since a large portion of those foods were beyond their expiration date and could not safely be handed out. When you are hungry, you do not care about expiration dates, but eat whatever comes your way to satisfy your hunger and the fact that you might become sick is not going to be on your mind. Where I used to live people even scavenged the public dumpsters and garbage cans for left-over, half-eaten stuff. The less fortunate in our community deserve better, a first- fruit serving to be Biblical. This is the main reason why we ask you to consider a monetary donation, so that guaranteed fresh foods can be purchased through our local vendors.

Thank you for your help and may God bless you this Christmas.
Pastor Bear

Delta Bison Working Group Meeting ~ Dec 8

Proposed Agenda

December 8, 2009, 6:30 p.m.
Delta Junction City Hall

Meeting objectives: To develop recommendations on the primary remaining Delta bison management issues and identify the process needed to complete the updated management plan and carry the recommendations forward to the necessary decision-makers.

I. Welcome, introductions and meeting objectives – Randy Rogers, meeting facilitator

II. Review, modification and approval of the proposed agenda

III. Update on ADF&G bison management activities – Steve DuBois, Delta Area Biologist
      A. Review of the process used to determine the number of bison hunting permits to issue for the 2009-10 hunting season (requested by Mike Schultz)

IV. Discussion of the role of the Delta agricultural community in helping to resolve conflicts between bison and agriculture and assisting the ADF&G in making management decisions (requested by Don Quarberg)

V. Public comments

*** BREAK ***

VI. Develop Delta Bison Working Group recommendations
      A. Herd size objective
      B. Bison fencing options
           i. DBWG support for a cost-sharing program to fence private ag lands
          ii. DBWG support for fencing the bison into the Bison Range or other options to keep bison south of the Alaska Highway
      C. Follow-up on Board of Game topics
           i. DBWG proposal to extend the bison hunting season
           ii. ADF&G proposal for same day airborne bison hunting
           iii. ADF&G proposal to prohibit shooting radio-collared bison
           iv. Public proposal for allowing electronic communications while hunting Delta bison
           v. DBWG recommendation on the use of bonus points for Delta bison hunting permits (deferred until after the last Delta AC meeting)

VII. Discussion of processes needed to complete the plan and move recommendations forward
      A. Additional public review and comment
      B. Coordination with DNR and the Division of Agriculture
      C. Board of Game action on proposals and review of the proposed management plan
      D. Legislative action needed

VIII. Schedule for the next meeting and adjournment

Status of Delta Bison Working Group Recommendations

December 4, 2009

The Delta Bison Working Group (DBWG) has considered many alternatives and possible recommendations. The following list identifies the recommendations the DBWG has agreed upon through the November 17, 2009 meeting and possible recommendations still under consideration. The Working Group can consider these and any other possible recommendations at the December 8, 2009 meeting.

Recommendations to the ADF&G
1. Increase funding for bison habitat improvement. [DBWG agreed to support]
2. Allow use of herbicides on the Delta Junction Bison Range. [DBWG agreed to support]
3. Revise the Delta bison herd size objective and/or establish a framework to adjust the herd size in the future [No DBWG recommendation yet]

Board of Game Proposals
1. Extend the authorized length of the Delta bison hunting season to July 1-June 30 [DBWG agreed to support]
2. Authorize same day airborne hunting [DBWG agreed to support].
3. Prohibit taking of bison with radio-collars [DBWG agreed to support].
4. Endorse implementation of the bonus point system authorized by the Board of Game [DBWG deferred this during the November 17, 2009 meeting]
5. Public proposal to allow electronic communications for Delta bison hunting [If this proposal was submitted by Dec. 4, the DBWG could make a recommendation].

Legislative and/or DNR Recommendations
1. Increase the application fee for Delta bison hunting permits fro $10 to $20 [DBWG agreed to support].
2. Support establishing an on-going crop damage assessment program [DBWG agreed to support].
3. Support state funding for a cost-sharing program to fence private agricultural lands. [DBWG did not make a recommendation at the November 17 meeting]
4. Change the legislative intent of maintaining a free-ranging bison herd and fence the bison into the Delta Bison Range or other area [DBWG did not make a recommendation at the November 17 meeting]

2009 Community Holiday Bazaar

On December 12th  in the multipurpose room (small gym) at the Delta High School the Heart Fur Animals will be sponsoring the Community Holiday Bazaar.
Come and enjoy the holiday spirit with family and friends and maybe find that extra special gift.

Call 895-5023 evenings or 895-4440 if you would like information about being a vendor.

Forms are at the Delta Community Library.

Community Birthday Calendars Are Here

Anyone who ordered a community birthday calendar may pick them up at the community library or Delta High School office, as you indicated on the order form.

The Boosters thank everyone for supporting the kids sports and activities through the calendar sales!

Beyond BOW Burbot Set Line Class

Hello Outdoors-Women,

ADF&G is holding a Beyond BOW class January 9-11, in Fairbanks, on Set Lining for Burbot. See the following website for registration materials and information on the class…Scroll all the way to the bottom (the 2009 schedule has not yet been deleted.)

**Class will be rescheduled if temperatures are below –20F.**
- What are burbot? How do you catch them? Find the answers at this Beyond BOW class!
- Learn to use an ice auger
- Learn how to make a winter burbot set line

COST: $25 Includes Class Materials

RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Most of this class will be outdoors. Dress in warm clothes (layering is best), including a hat, warm pants, wool socks and waterproof boots.
- Bring Bag lunch if desired.

REGISTRATION:
Please visit the website for more information and to sign up.

—Registration is limited to 6 participants—

Download Form here.

Photo of the day - December 7

A bend in the Clearwater River helps to accent the brush and small trees which are covered in frost on a point of land that juts out into the river. This photo was taken on November 21 with a delightful temperature of minus 15 degrees. Photo Courtesy Barb Tharp

Secretarial Review of Alaska Federal Subsistence Program

State of Alaska
Department of Fish and Game

Office of the Commissioner

Sean Parnell Governor

December 4, 2009

Mr. Kim Elton, Director, Alaska Affairs
Office of the Secretary
US Department of the Interior
1849 “C” Street, NW
Washington, DC 20240

Re: Secretarial Review of Alaska Federal Subsistence Program

Dear Mr. Elton:

On October 23, 2009, the Secretary of the Department of the Interior initiated a review of the federal subsistence management program in Alaska. On November 12, 2009, a website was made available for the submission of comments. At several recent meetings, Mr. Pat Pourchot, Special Assistant for Alaska Affairs for Department of the Interior, reportedly requested that comments be submitted by December 18, while a November 24 progress report (posted on the website) asked for comments prior to the Christmas holidays. During your original announcement of this review, you indicated that substantial results would be available that would affect the conduct of the next meeting of the Federal Subsistence Board (i.e., January 12, 2010).

Given the significance of this review to many Alaskans, we believe that providing little more than a month before the holidays is not sufficient.
We request that the deadline for comments be extended to provide more time for Alaskans to participate. Also, we believe that more time is needed to expand your agency’s direct consultation with a broader base of affected individuals, organizations, and communities.

Adequate opportunities for public input need to include more traditional and user-friendly processes for public involvement in subsistence issues, such as public meetings, rather than depending upon an internet site and ad hoc meetings as the vehicle for public comment by rural residents and other interested parties.

Specifically, please consider extending the comment period through February 2010 and consider including full consultation with members of the Regional Advisory Councils and local fish and game advisory committees at their scheduled meetings.

The State of Alaska intends to participate fully in this review. In due course we may bring significant policy issues to the personal attention of both the Secretary of the Department of the Mr. Kim Elton -2- December 4, 2009

Interior and the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture. Please consider establishing a second phase to your consultation approach, so that the public and State have an opportunity to evaluate consequences and comment on any specific changes contemplated by the Secretaries.

In closing, I urge that you extend the review process to provide sufficient time to conduct a systematic, documented evaluation of the federal subsistence program that assures direct consultation with the wide variety of stakeholders.

Sincerely,
Denby S. Lloyd
Commissioner

cc: Mr. Pat Pourchot, Department of the Interior Federal Subsistence Board
Alaska Board of Fisheries
Alaska Board of Game
John Katz, Office of the Governor

State Requests Extension of Federal Subsistence Review Deadline to Allow More Alaskans to Participate

(Juneau) - The Alaska Department of Fish and Game requested an extension today of the deadline for comments to the Department of the Interior (DOI) on the Federal Subsistence Program Review. The request for additional time is based on the significant importance of the review to Alaskans.

“We believe that providing little more than a month before the holidays is not sufficient.” said Denby Lloyd, ADF&G Commissioner. Although a DOI website to submit comments went online November 12, and Interior is requesting comments before the holidays, Lloyd explained that department staff has received numerous complaints from the public that there is not enough time to prepare comments.

In a letter sent today to DOI Director of Alaska Affairs, the commissioner requested an extension of the deadline through February 2010. The letter also specifically requests more involvement of rural residents and called for more direct consultation with a broader base of affected individuals, organizations, and communities. The department urges DOI to conduct more traditional public meetings and to consult with members of Regional Advisory Councils as well as local fish and game Advisory Committees at their upcoming meetings.

The state also requested a second phase of the review be established providing an opportunity for the public and state to evaluate and comment on any potential consequences of specific changes the Secretaries may be contemplating.

The request for comment extension cited the need to provide sufficient time to conduct a systematic, documented evaluation of the federal subsistence program that assures direct consultation with the wide variety of stakeholders. “The greater opportunity for participation by all parties the better this process will meet the needs of subsistence users and others affected by any changes.” said the commissioner.

See's Candy Has Arrived

Lucille Stock will be at IGA Monday and Tuesday, 10am - 2pm with the See's Holiday candies.

If you have placed an order with her, please stop by the IGA for your pick-up today or tomorrow.

Lucille wants to thank each and everyone who has come out and supported this fundraiser another year.

Merry Christmas!

Annual Community Children's Christmas Party

Alpha Omega Life Care, Inc. will be presenting their annual Community Children's Christmas party on Saturday, December 12 at 2pm in the Delta Community Center.
Retired Presbyterian Minister, Bob Carpenter will return to tell the Nativity story and "The Night Before Christmas."

Santa will come with his bag of gifts for children 7 years old and younger. Older siblings are welcome to come and hear the stories and enjoy the goodies. Kids do not forget to bring a parent so that they can enjoy the afternoon with you as well.

Parents, please come and bring your young children and your cameras. There will be fun to be had by all, and help us to keep the true spirit of the holiday season in the hearts of our children.

9th Army Band Presents A Holiday Concert

The 9th Army Band "Arctic Groove Orchestra" will be performing their public Holiday Concert at Hering Auditorium  Friday, December 11th, at 7:30 p.m.

Admission is free.

Opera Fairbanks presents Amahl and the Night Visitors

Opera Fairbanks presents Amahl and the Night Visitors by Gian-Carlo Menotti
Dates: December 11, 12 & 13
Location: Pioneer Park Centennial Theatre
http://www.operafairbanks.org/

Time: The first Christmas
Setting: A small village near Bethlehem

The curtain rises on Amahl, a crippled boy who, although he has a kind and pleasant heart, has a problem with telling tall tales and, occasionally, lies. He is sitting outside playing his shepherd's pipe when his mother calls for him. After much persuasion, he enters the house but his mother does not believe him when he tells her that there is an amazing star "as big as a window" outside, over their roof.

Later that night, Amahl's mother weeps over their poverty, praying that they will not have to become beggars. After bedtime, there is a knock at the door and his mother tells him to go see who it is. He is amazed when he sees three splendidly dressed kings (the Magi). They tell the mother and Amahl that they are on a long journey to give gifts to a wondrous child, and that they would like to rest at Amahl's house, to which the mother agrees.

Amahl's Mother goes to fetch firewood and Amahl seizes the opportunity to speak with the Magi, asking them nosy questions. The Mother returns and sends Amahl to fetch all the surrounding neighbors so that the kings may be fed and entertained properly.

The visit of the Magi brings dramatically unexpected changes to the lives of Amahl and his mother.

Amahl and the Night Visitors, by Gian-Carlo Menotti, was the first opera specifically written for performance on T.V. It premiered on NBC Christmas Eve 1951.

This small opera offers beautiful music, lovable characters and a moving story lightened with unexpected humor.

Photo of the day - December 5

This fall I have seen a very large number of foxes around the area, (maybe due to less trapping). This one was photographed at the local landfill. Photo Courtesy Richard Mitchell

PSA: Board of Eduction Teleconference

Delta Junction’s Legislative Information Office is now OPEN. Office hours are from 7:00am to 3:30pm, closed 12:30-1:30 for lunch. Questions or comments welcome, please call 895-4236.

State of Alaska Department of Education & Early Development will be open by teleconference for Public Comment on December 10th, 2009 from 8:00am- 10:00am. Teleconference will be held at the Delta Junction Legislative Information Office, located in the Jarvis Office Center, suite 218. For more information please call the DELTA LIO at 895-4236.

Photo of the day - December 4

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game staff is about to finish flying annual aerial moose surveys with Golden Eagle Outfitters pilot Jim Cummings. This picture is Jim Cummings climbing into his SuperCub for a day of surveys. Photo Courtesy Steve DuBois

Military Police Deployment Ceremony

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska, Dec. 3 – A Military Police Company preparing for deployment to Iraq is scheduled to conduct their deployment ceremony at 1 p.m. on Dec. 10th at the Fort Wainwright Physical Fitness Center.

The more than 150 Soldiers of the 472nd Military Police Company have spent the last 15 months preparing for their deployment to Western Iraq scheduled for January in support of Operation Iraq Freedom.

Following the deployment ceremony, the military police company will make final preparations for a block leave period where Soldiers are encouraged to maximize their time with family and loved ones. After the block leave period the unit will begin the deployment process.

The 472nd Military Police Company was activated in a ceremony here Aug. 13, 2008.

Toy's Aren't All Fun and Games

BBB Advice for Giving Safe Children's Gifts
Anchorage, Alaska – Dec. 3, 2009 – With children's toys flying off the shelves this holiday season, consumers should be informed about toy hazards and safety risks before making a purchase.

Despite rigorous testing and inspection standards and 2008's Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, accidents involving toys are still quite common. However, according to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), there have been 38 toy recalls issued thus far in 2009—which has decreased compared to the 162 recalls in 2008.

"When children's safety is at stake, parents and consumers can’t afford to overlook basic gift-giving protection measures," said Robert W.G. Andrew, CEO of BBB serving Alaska, Oregon, and Western Washington. Better Business Bureau encourages those who are giving or donating toys to take a few extra safety steps:

Know which items have been recalled. Product recalls are in place due to the following concerns or hazards: product toxicity, lead poisoning, lacerations, high flammability, chemical burns, drowning, and choking. For a full list of toys and other children's products recalled by CPSC, please click here. More information on product recalls is available at www.recalls.gov/cpsc.html.

Return recalled toys and products. Bring the item back to the retailer before contacting the toy's manufacturer. Most toy stores have a return policy for recalled items. If not, CPSC may be able to work with the manufacturer to negotiate a refund or exchange. If a child has been hurt by a potentially faulty or toxic toy, consult a physician and contact the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772.

Select age-appropriate toys. In the inspection process, age grading and labeling help determine the appropriate age for which the toy is intended; always abide by the age recommendation listed on the package. For children under age 3, avoid toys with small parts, which can cause choking. The Toy Industry Association can provide additional toy safety information and education.

Assist children with opening gift packages or assembling toys. Promptly dispose of balloons, plastic wrapping or packaging with sharp edges. Pay attention to instructions and warnings on batteries and chargers, which can pose burn hazards. Carefully monitor playing activities to ensure safety is not at risk.

Recycle or give away re-usable toys. Clean used toys before re-gifting; remove and recycle old batteries from battery-operated toys. Some manufacturers will accept their retired toys back and recycle them.

Don't play with your donation dollars. Give toys and make financial contributions to trustworthy organizations. Check out toy donation centers and other organizations for free at www.bbb.org/charity.

As part of BBB Foundation's ongoing support of the community and military families, BBB is now a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots donation center. Find BBB's toy drop locations in Alaska, Oregon, and Western Washington and learn more about BBB Foundation's programs, including Military Line and Charity Review.

Photo of the day - December 3

Several people in the area have seen this albino moose, but this is the first the DNW has received a close up picture to share with the community. The moose was seen by Frank Borman's on Tuesday afternoon! "So awesome to see it!" Photo Courtesy Lisa Stossmeister

Test and Information Sessions for Census Bureau Work - Canceled

This class has been canceled and will be rescheduled. The new date and time will be posted as soon it is available. New information added on December 3.


Test and Information Sessions Census Bureau Work / Delta Junction and Ft. Greely
3:00PM, Friday, December 4, 2009 - City Hall Conference Room

Work will be the last part of January and the first part of February. Pay is $25.00-$26.50/hour for crew leaders and enumerators, plus 55¢/mile. Call 1-866-861-2010 to schedule appointment or just come to the session. Bring two pieces of ID or a current passport. Bilingual persons are welcome. Sample tests can be down loaded online or picked up at City Hall.

Advertising Honestly: 5 Terms Businesses and Shoppers Need to Know

Anchorage, Alaska – Dec. 2, 2009 – Free! Save! Guarantee! Businesses need to ensure they don't use these terms insincerely and consumers need to know if they are being deceived.
Advertising is an essential part of business; not only can it attract new customers or clients, but it can also leave a lasting impression of a business' brand or reputation. Misleading or unclear advertising can lead to unhappy customers.

BBB encourages self-regulation: Ultimately, the primary responsibility for truthful and non-deceptive advertising rests with the advertiser.

Your Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon, and Western Washington provides the following guidance about advertising phrases and tactics that can be misleading to consumers if not used properly:

1. FREE may be used whenever the advertiser is offering an unconditional and temporary gift, not a continuous combination offer. If an additional item must be purchased in order to receive a gift, such as "buy one, get one free," the advertiser must clearly disclose the conditions. In addition, an advertiser may not increase the price of the purchased item, nor decrease quantity or quality in conjunction with the free offer.

2. PRICE-REDUCTION CLAIMS such as "save up to …," should state both the minimum and maximum savings. The offer should not over emphasize the maximum savings value in a misleading manner. For example: An advertiser should not imply that the majority of the items on the sales rack are 50 percent off, when only 2 out of the 30 items are on sale for that discount. The number of items available at the maximum savings should comprise at least 10 percent of all the sale merchandise (unless local or state law requires otherwise).

3. LOWEST PRICES for products and services fluctuate regularly and it can be extremely difficult to claim, with certainty, that prices are lower than a competitors. Such claims should be avoided unless the advertiser can provide substantiation.

4. BAIT AND SWITCH is an illegal tactic in which an ad "baits" consumers with an alluring but insincere offer for a product or service that the company does not intend to sell. Instead, they "switch" and attempt to convince consumers to buy it at a higher price. In other situations, the same price is offered, but the item or service is a lower quality than what was advertised.

5. GUARANTEES AND WARRANTIES like "satisfaction guaranteed" and similar representations should be used in advertising only if the seller or manufacturer refunds the full purchase price at the buyer's request. A "lifetime guarantee" should clearly and prominently disclose the exact length of time the offer is valid. Any material limitations or conditions should be clearly and prominently disclosed, with complete details made accessible at the advertiser's store or on their Web site prior to the sale of the service or product. In the case of mail or telephone order sales, the full guarantee or warranty should be available free upon request.

For additional guidance on fair and honest advertising, please read BBB's Code of Advertising. For information on how to maintain ethical business practices, please check out BBB's Code of Business Practices.

Consumers who fall victim to unethical advertising practices can file a complaint at http://www.bbb.org/.

Photo of the day - December 2

Boy Scout Troop 56 climbed Donnelly Dome on Saturday, November 28. Pictured from left to right are Connell Ware, Steve Bealer, Matthew Joslin, and Taylor Levinson on the northeast ridge going up.

The sun going down from the top. The sun came above the horizon on our way up and went down again as we were descending.

Photos Courtesy Alan Levinson - Scoutmaster - Troop 56

Children's Coloring Contest

Children's Coloring Contest

Contest Information

· Entrants must be between the ages of 1 to 10 years old.
· Coloring pages are due at the Chamber of Commerce office by Friday, December 11th.
· Entries are separated by the following age groups for judging purposes: 1-3; 4-5; 6-7; & 8-10. Judging will take place prior to noon on Monday, December 14th.
· Prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place winners of each age group. Winners will be identified by place ribbons.
· Winning coloring pages will be displayed at the Delta Community Library from December 14-17. All other coloring pages will be displayed at various Chamber member businesses.
· Winners may claim prizes on December 18 prior to 4 P.M.

Mail coloring pages to: Delta Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 987, Delta Junction, AK 99737 or hand deliver to: Jarvis West Building (2855 Alaska Hwy), Suite 1B (They may be slipped under the door if after hours)

Presented by the Delta Chamber of Commerce
Location Sponsor: Delta Community Library

For Questions Contact Dani at 895-5068

Here is a sample copy of the coloring page:

Click here to print out your coloring page

4th Annual Gingerbread House Contest Rules and Form

4th Annual Gingerbread House Contest

Presented by the Delta Chamber of Commerce
Location Sponsor: Delta Community Library

Category 1: Handmade Gingerbread House
1. All houses in this category should be made out of handmade gingerbread.
2. Decorations on, inside, or surrounding the house must be edible.
3. House should sit on a base of 24” x 24” x 40” or less and be sturdy enough to be moved if needed.

Category 2: Houses Made From Gingerbread Kits, Graham Crackers, Pretzels, & Other Edible Materials
1. All houses in this category should be made out of either store-bought gingerbread kits, graham crackers, pretzels, or other edible materials.
2. Decorations on, inside, or surrounding the house must be edible.
3. House should sit on a base of 24” x 24” x 40” or less and be sturdy enough to be moved if needed.

Rules and General Information
1. Age divisions are as follows 4-7 (Child), 8-11 (Youth), 12-17 (Teen), 18 & Up (Adult)
2. Contest entries must be submitted in the category of the oldest member, except for the Child category, which may have one adult or youth provide minimal necessary assistance. Assistance in the Child category must be listed on the entry form.
3. Houses must be delivered to the Delta Community Library ON and NOT prior to Friday, December 11th by 4 P.M. Entry forms are due upon submission of gingerbread houses.
4. Houses will be displayed at the library up until 12/18 and must be picked up no later than 4 P.M. on that day.
5. Winners will be announced by noon on Tuesday 12/15. A winning gingerbread house will be selected from each age division and category. Judging will be based on choice and use of materials, degree of difficulty, attention to detail, creativity/originality, & overall appearance. A People’s Choice will also be selected for each age category; this is done by public vote. The People’s Choice winners will be revealed by Wednesday, 12/16 at noon. Ribbons will identify winners by age division and category.

For More information Please contact Dani at 895-5068.  Or email

Sample copy of Gingerbread House Contest.  Click here to print your contest form.

Email Scam In Circulation ~ State Vaccination H1N1 Program

In the last couple of days, you may have seen this email come through on your email. This is a scam. Please do not follow the instructions. Send this to you family and friends. Here is a sample copy of the email that is being circulated:

You have received this e-mail because of the launching of State Vaccination H1N1 Program.

You need to create your personal H1N1 (swine flu) Vaccination Profile on the cdc.gov website. The Vaccination is not obligatory, but every person that has reached the age of 18 has to have his personal Vaccination Profile on the cdc.gov site. This profile has to be created both for the vaccinated people and the not-vaccinated ones. This profile is used for the registering system of vaccinated and not-vaccinated people.

Create your Personal H1N1 Vaccination Profile using the link: create personal profile.  Note: Link has been omitted, it may contain a virus.

Photo of the day - December 1

I watched this great gray owl swoop down on the frozen crusted snow, bury his head in it and come up with a rodent. They can actually hear the rodents moving beneath the snow. Photo courtesy Dwight Phillips.

Holiday Contests Presented by the Chamber of Commerce

Holiday Contests

Presented by the

Delta Chamber of Commerce

Location sponsor: Delta Community Library

Children's Christmas Coloring Contest

Ages 1-10  Deadline 12/11

Gingerbread House Contest

All AgesDeadline 12/11

Forms and contest information is available at the Chamber office - Jarvis West Bldg., Suite 1B. - Entry forms and rules are also available at the Delta Community Library. Please contact the Chamber with your questions at 895-5068.