This image shows a plume created by one of the many forest fires that we experienced during the summer of 2004. Photo Courtesy Dale Pelzer

Fort Greely School Parents Can Registered Their Vehicles

 Dear Fort Greely School Parent,

This school year, Fort Greely School parents will be able to register their automobiles and receive a Fort Greely School Parent Badge for entry to Fort Greely. To access Fort Greely, be sure to bring your driver’s license, car registration, and proof of auto insurance. You will be asked to complete two separate forms, one for car registration, and a second for a Parent Badge. You may obtain both forms at the Fort Greely Visitor Center or at the school. Upon completion of the forms, my signature is required to validate information. Please be aware that access delays are possible at the gate, however, by registering your car and receiving a badge delays should be reduced. For further information on the car registration and badging process, you may contact the school at 869-3105 or the Fort Greely Visitor Center 872-2660.

Thank you,
Brian J. Schaffer
Principal, Fort Greely School -- August 24, 2005

Several small lakes fall in the shadows of one of Delta's most prominent landforms, Donnelly Dome. Photo courtesy Melissa Walters.

Thanks for Caring

The post office has added another space for handicap parking and I think that is great. The library has been open almost one year and has yet to obey the ADA law and have handicap parking. To those of you who care I say thank you.

August 22, 2005 -- Bob Anders

Today's featured photos are courtesy of  Michael Kingston/CRTC

  We want to thank everyone who has been sending photos to the ing photos to the ing photos to the ing photos to the DNW this week from the parade and fair.  Today's featured photos are courtesy of  Carol Watkins
 

Alumni Photos - Click here
August 18, 2005

Football Husky Action

Home football game that was played last Friday.  The Delta Huskies took on the Sitka Wolves.   Photos Courtesy Carol Watkins

University of Alaska Fairbanks Tanana Valley Campus - Fall 2005 Delta Junction Courses

This fall TVC will be offering several classes to help you gain the skills needed to succeed in Alaska’s 21st century workplace, or to be used towards a college degree. TVC has been helping prepare Alaskans for Alaska’s jobs for more than 30 years now...are YOU next on our list?

Preparing Alaskans for Alaska’s Jobs
DGHS= Delta Greely High School DCS= Delta Cyber School
Call (907) 895-4215 for registration information
www.tvc.uaf.edu

CIOS F133 TD1 Micrcomputer Presentation Software 3.0CR
CRN 79437 Tuesdays, 6-9p.m. DCS 9/5/05-12/13/05 This course will teach students how to design effective presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint. The course includes strategies about how to organize and design effective presentations. (Recommended: CIOS 150 or equivalent comuter literacy.) Instructor: Cory Haas

CIOS F255 TD1 Microcomputer Graphics: Photoshop CS 3.0CR. CRN 79438 Wednesdays, 6-9p.m. DCS 9/7/05-12/14/05 This course teaches students how to use Photoshop’s multitude of tools to create sophisticated graphics for a variety of intended uses; edit or enhance existing graphic images; and explain why different . le formats work better for different purposes. (Recommended: CIOS 150 or equivalent computer literacy.) Instructor: Kathryn Sharp

DRT F170 TD1 Beginning AutoCad 3.0CR
CRN 79439 Tuesdays and Thursdays 6-9p.m. DGHS 10/18/05-12/17/05 Instruction in basic working knowledge of AutoCad software and its applications in drafting from how to turn on the computer through plotting out finished drawings. Practical applications. Materials Fee: $60.00 Instructor: Jack Morris

ABUS F263 TD1 Public Relations 3.0CR
CRN 79396 Mondays, 6-9p.m. DGHS 9/12/05-12/12/06 One of the fastest growing and vital industries in the world is public relations. Public relations is image making, repairing, and promoting. PR involves promotion, selling, advertising, and
creating public, corporate, government, church, and other institutional images. Public relations professionals have to have skills in psychology, writing, mass media theory, image construction,
persuasion, and audience analysis. The purpose of the course is to introduce the student to the world of public relations and to understand the role public relations plays in our organizational society. Instructor: Karen Cedzo

ABUS F231 TD1 Introduction to Personnel 3.0CR
CRN 79435 Thursdays, 6-9p.m. DGHS 9/15/05-12/15/05 Company organizational structure, job analysis, staffing and organization, employee growth and development, employee supervision
and developing leadership skills. Instructor: Kristin Bowen

ASLG F101 TD1 American Sign Language I 3.0CR
CRN 79436 Thursdays, 6-9p.m. DGHS 9/1/05-12/15/05 Meets: Humanities degree requirement. Visual-gestural language used by most deaf Americans. Acquisition of receptive and
expressive conversational skills. Cultural aspects of everyday life experiences of deaf people. Instructor: Diane Hill

August 16, 2005

Third Day -- Live in Concert

Tuesday ~ October 4, 2005 7:00 PM Anchorage Sullivan Sports Complex

Thursday ~ October 6, 2005 7:00PM
Fairbanks Carlson Center

Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or at any Fred Meyer location. Fairbanks (907) 456-4800
Anchorage (907) 562-4800

Presented by Christian Professional Phone Directory along with KATB/KAFC.

August 11, 2005

2005 Deltana Fair is August 19, 20 & 21
“Farming in the Friendly Frontier”

Lots of entertainment at the Deltana Fair

“The Sandman”, comedy hypnotist Alan Sands, will be here to entertain fairgoers all three days of the Deltana Fair, August 19, 20 and 21, with shows planned for 7 pm Friday, 3 pm Saturday and 12:30 pm on Sunday.
The entertainment schedule also includes Kit Carson, Brian Clauss, the “Dance 4 Fun” dancers, Lillia Graffia, “Big Chief and The Smokehouse” and the popular Deltana Fair Talent Show, featuring you and your talent!  You won’t want to miss any of the exciting entertainment at this year’s Deltana Fair!

August 17, 2005

Merchandise Avaiable at the Deltana Fair Booth

Come to the Deltana Fair Association’s booth at the Fairgrounds this weekend to buy your Deltana Fair t-shirts, sweatshirts and straw hats. The 2005 Deltana Fair “Farming in the Friendly Frontier” merchandise will be available, including a refreshed supply of t-shirt in sizes that were sold out late last week.

Souvenir key tags good for adult admission to all three days of the fair, August 19, 20 and 21, will be for sale at $12 at all three Fair gates on Friday. (Single day adult admission to the fair is $5 each day.) The key tags are sponsored by Kel’s Septic Pumping Service.

At the Fair Booth, you can also get tickets for the Fair’s popular Multi-Item Raffle. The tickets sell for $2 each or $20 for a book of 10. There are many valuable items for the raffle, including two round trip tickets on Alaska Airlines to Anchorage or Seattle, four round trips for two on the Alaska Railroad, a Stan Stephens’ Columbia Glacier Cruise for two, Riverboat Discovery and Eldorado Gold Mine tickets, and a huge variety of other prizes!
Winning tickets in the Multi-Item Raffle are drawn all during the three days of the fair, at least one every half-hour. Be sure to check the poster boards to see if and what you have won.

T-shirt prices are: Youth - $8, Adult - $10 and 2X, 3X - $12. Sweatshirts are priced at $20 for adult sizes and $23 for 2X. Sponsor for the shirts is Copper Valley Enterprises – Carns General Contracting.

Straw hats, to help you get into the “Farming in the Friendly Frontier” theme, are sponsored by IGA Food Cache and sell for $7 each. (Groups or businesses that may want larger quantities of straw hats for their participation in the Deltana Fair Parade or other activities, should contact the Fair office at 895-3247 for an additional discount.)

August 17, 2005

Deltana Fair’s 2004 Silver Coins

A limited supply of the Deltana Fair’s 25th Anniversary 2004 Silver Coins is still available -- you can get yours at the Deltana Fair Booth this weekend. The coins sell for $28 each or $24 each if you buy two or more.

Shirt bargains, too! A few 2004 Deltana Fair t-shirts and sweatshirts are also on hand -- mostly in larger sizes. These can be purchased at the Fair Booth at greatly reduced prices, while they last. (Where else can you get a really good sweatshirt for $10?)

August 17, 2005

Deltana Fair's Family Dance

Deltana Fair presents it's first ever FAMILY DANCE, Saturday, August 20 during the fair. The community is invited to come out and have some great family fun for all ages. The dance will feature the great Kit Carson and his band playing a wide variety of wonderful dance music. Also featured will be the great dancers from DANCE 4 FUN Dance School in Fairbanks. They will be giving dance instruction on the main stage Sat afternoon in preparation for the evening dance.

There is no entrance fee for the dance but donations will go to the Delta Husky Football team. This will be a great family fun event at the fair. There will be food available from vendors on the grounds. Come on out from 8-11PM and enjoy the Friendly Frontier's best family social event of the summer...and bring your DANCING SHOES!!

Special thanks to Dance Sponsors Kelly's Alaska Country Inn

August 15, 2005

This photo was taken of Keith Warren in June 2005, working with geologist's doing mineral mapping on Hajdukovich Mountain. (30 miles south east of Delta Junction, inside the Alaska Range).
 Photo Courtesy Keith Warren

‘Pipeline Run in the Late Night Sun’

Registration forms are available for the Deltana Fair’s “Pipeline Run in the Late Night Sun”, which is scheduled for Friday, August 19, at 8 pm. Forms can be picked up at Buffalo Center Drive-In or Busy Bee Office Supply/Help Secretarial. Complete it right away and return it, along with payment, to Busy Bee/Help.

Pre-registration is encouraged -- participants will save money by registering early. The entry fee for children ages 14 and under is $5 before Friday, August 19, but goes up to $8 on race day. The fee for adults is $7 before race day but it’s $10 on Friday.

The “Pipeline Run” is either 5K or 3K, your choice, and you can run, walk or stroll. There are age groups for everyone. (Encourage a group of friends to walk or run with you – it’s more fun!) Each participant will receive a “Pipeline Run” t-shirt; the shirts are being sponsored again by Buffalo Center Drive-In.

For more information, call Janet Boyer at 895-3247; please leave a message if you get the machine.

August 17, 2005

Patrick and Jim Butler with Columbia Glacier in the background, enjoying a Stan Stephens Glacier Cruise on a beautiful sunny day in Valdez.
Photo Courtesy Traci Blais

Alaska Motor Coaches Practice Run

Alaska Motor Coaches will do a practice run of school bus routes on the morning of August 17, 2005 between the hours of 6:30 AM & 8:45 AM. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule your children for the school bus, please contact our office at (907)895-4550.

August 17, 2005

Crop Exhibit Entries

Calling all crop growers! This is the 26th annual Deltana Fair and the farmers are honored with its theme this year, "Farming in the Friendly Frontier". Division 7 (Crops) entry day is Thursday, August 18, from 6:30 AM - 8:30 AM and 10AM - 2PM.

Crops will be judged on the American system. Each individual may enter one entry per lot. The Classes include Spring Wheat,

Winter Wheat, Barley, Bulk Grass Seeds, Bulk Oilseeds, Oats, Forage, Barley Sheaves, Oat Sheaves, Grass Seeds, Forage,

Oilseeds, and a special category for Crop Art. There are numerous lots under these classes and there is always a class for "other". Any variety of Alaska grown cereals, grasses, legumes, and oilseeds may be exhibited. Crop exhibits are encouraged
even though they may not be fully matured at Fair time. Bulk exhibits of cereal grains, oilseeds and grass seed are encouraged.

They should be clean and free of foreign matter, cracked, unsound, and discolored kernels. Exhibits should contain samples of the current or last year's crop. Leaves should remain on all forages and grass entries. All sheaves should be 3" or more in diameter. Exhibit pickup is Sunday of Fair weekend, from 5PM - 6PM. Call Ruby Hollembaek at 907-895-4008 or email  buffalogal@wildak.net if you have any questions.

August 16, 2005

Perishable entries due in Thursday at the Fairgrounds

Thursday, August 18, is Deltana Fair entry day for perishables. Be sure to check your Premium Book for complete information about the divisions you want to enter.

Entries will be accepted at the Deltana Fairgrounds -- in the small exhibit hall -- from 6:30 to 8:30 am from 10 am until 2 pm on Thursday, August 18.

 Entries will be accepted only for the following divisions: Division 4 –Foods: Culinary and Preservation, Division 5 – Flowers, Division 6 –Vegetables & Fruits, Division 7 – Crops. Entry forms for the Public Speaking Contest are to be turned in by 5 pm today (Wednesday, August 17).
Premium Books are still available at several locations in the Delta area, including Busy Bee Office Supply / Help Secretarial and the Deltana Fair office, both located in the AMC Building on the Alaska Highway; exhibit entry forms are also available there for people who want to fill them out before taking exhibits to the fairgrounds.

Everyone is eligible to enter contests and competitive exhibits in the Deltana Fair. If you have questions or need more information, call the Deltana Fair office at 895-FAIR (3247); if you get the machine, please leave a message. The office at the Fairgrounds will be open most of the day Thursday and during Fair Weekend.

August 17, 2005

New Alumni Photos - Click here
August 11, 2005

Tanana River highway and pipeline bridges from the bluff in July. Photo Courtesy David Johnson

Birch Leaf Miners and Wasps

Birch leaf miners, Profenusa thomsoni, are the tiny larval stage of sawflies that make labyrinth-like “galleries” in the soft tissue of leaves. They have been quite active in recent years all over Alaska, and have once again left their gray tint on our local tree vegetation. Leaf miner adults are 1/8 to ¼ inch long. Most of their population is female. They lay their eggs into the leaf, and the larvae hatch out ready to eat the leaf tissue. 30 to 40 larvae can live in one leaf. Adult leaf miners drop to the ground and pupate, so it is safe to use aspen or birch leaves for mulch without spreading the insect.

The trees are not usually damaged by leaf miner activity, because by the time that the leaves look really bad and photosynthesis is limited, the season is almost over. However, the insect damage may allow other diseases to further weaken the tree, which may lead to branch dieback. If you are worried about leaf miner damage to the trees in your yard, keep the trees happy with 1 inch of water a week and use 1 or 2 inches of compost or other material as mulch around the tree to the dripline. Be sure not to lay any mulch up to 6 inches away from the trunk.

A tiny parasitic wasp, Lathrolestes luteolator, lives entirely off the birch leaf miner and has been released experimentally in Anchorage to see if it can make a dent in Alaska’s hearty leaf miner population. This relationship was discovered in the mid-1990’s when Edmonton, Alberta had an awful birch leaf miner infestation. Parasitic wasps do not harm or sting humans, but live off other insects to survive. The experimental wasps released in Anchorage did overwinter, but it will be a long time before any significant difference in the leaf miner population can be noticed if the wasps are successful living in Alaska.

Vespid wasps, on the other hand, are larger and easier to spot in our landscape. Vespid wasps include many different species, some referred to as “yellow jackets”. They are ¾ inch long, black with yellow or other light-colored stripes, and are usually hairless. Yellow jackets do sting humans. They are social, nest-building wasps, and aggressively prey on other insects. They collect pollen and eat exposed food, meat, garbage, aphid honeydew (and aphids), raspberry and strawberry juice, and anything else that crosses their path.

For more information, or for horticulture or insect questions, contact the Cooperative Extension Service in the Jarvis Office Center at 895-4215. Happy growing!

August 10, 2005 -- By Sara Engebretson/IPM Technician, UAF – Cooperative Extension Service

Attention All Homeschoolers

Homeschool gathering in the park. Potluck picnic - bring a dish if you can. August 15, at noon, in the Delta Park playground area, off of Kimball Street. This is a chance to met other homeschool families in the area, and talk about what we do. For more info call Tina Congiolosi at 895-4739

August 6, 2005

Delta Husky Football Cheer Camp Recap

The last week of July, twelve cheerleaders and I packed a van and headed to UAA. We were going to Cheer Camp, and we did not have ANY idea what to expect! It has been a long time since DHS has shown up at a cheer camp, but it wont be the last.

We spent four days working under three instructors from UCA (Universal Cheerleaders Association) Our days started at 7AM and were jammed packed until almost 10PM. We worked along with squads from Chugiak, East, and Soldotna High Schools on cheers, dance routines, stunting, partner stunting, technique and cardio-training. We participated in Fan Frenzy, the Cheer Olympics, and tryouts for the National All Star Squad, and daily evaluations. We did manage to fit in one quick trip to Wal Mart for ice and heat wraps! The girls were real troopers and kept up with every task put before them.

We also managed to win a few awards! Individual awards were given to Angela Phillips (38 sit-ups in one minute) and Brianna Humphrey and Megan McClallan both made the National All Star Squad who will cheer in London in front of the Queen Mum on New Years Day! We brought home several team awards as well. After each of our nine evaluations you were given ribbons. White is the lowest award, then red, blue and gold as a superior rating. DHS Football Cheer brought home two red, two blue and five gold ribbons. These awards were enough to give us the highest point total awarding us the Camp Champ trophy. We also won the coveted Spirit Stick along with all the other squads for completing camp. The award our squad is the most proud of is the UCA Leadership Award. Every cheerleader attending camp votes to determine the winning squad. You are asked, ”If you had to leave your squad and join a squad attending camp, which squad would you most like to be a part of?” We are very proud that our peers see our squad as something they would like to be a part of. We are very proud of our accomplishments at camp. Our awards are on display at the High School. Thanks to everyone who helped us get to camp and see you at our first home game August 19th at 4:00! GO HUSKIES!

August 6, 2005 -- By Jenny Butler – DHS Football Cheer Coach

August 10, Delta had 85 degrees.  Even bull moose need to find a place to stay cool.  This image was taken at Bolio Lake.  Local residents are so blessed to enjoy beautiful scenery like this.  Photo Courtesy Michael Kingston/CRTC

Summer Squash

Nutrition and Health…
Summer squash contains a good supply of Vitamins
A and C. A 12 cup of diced squash provides 15 calories.

Selection…
Select the smallest, firmest, glossiest squash. Select
squash that is heavy for its size. There should not
be soft spots or blemishes.

Storage…
Store in plastic bags in the refrigerator crisper. (Cut
small slits in bags for ventilation.)

Preparation…
Summer squash is frequently cooked in simple
ways, such as frying or simmering in its own juices
in a covered pan with butter, salt, and brown sugar.
Squash can be canned or frozen, whichever your
family prefers.

To can…Wash squash and cut into cubes. Add to a
saucepan of boiling water, boil 2 minutes. Pack hot
squash into clean hot canning jars with boiling liquid
and leave 1 inch headspace. Seal with prepared
lids. Process at 11 lbs pressure for 55 minutes for
pints and 90 minutes for quarts.

To freeze…You should choose young squash with
tender skin. Wash, slice, scald 3 minutes. Chill in
cold water to stop cooking action, drain well, and
package in labeled packages. When ready to cook, wash and scrub well with a brush; cut off stem and blossom ends, but do not peel. Slice or dice. Cook covered in 12 to 1 inch boiling salted water until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain, season with salt, pepper, and butter or margarine.

Recipes:
Skillet Vegetable Medley
2 tbsp vegetable oil 14 tsp powered mustard
1 tbsp cider vinegar 12 lb green beans
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 12 lb mushrooms
112 tsp sugar 2 medium squash, sliced
112 tsp salt 2 medium tomatoes,
12 tsp oregano cut in wedges
In a large skillet, combine vegetable oil, vinegar,
Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, oregano, and
mustard. Bring to boil and add beans. Return to
boiling point; reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 5
minutes. Add mushrooms and squash. Cover and
simmer for 3 minutes. Add tomatoes. Cover and
simmer for 1 minute. Serve hot.

Squash and Hamburger Casserole
2 pounds squash 14 lb processed cheese
1 lb hamburger 1 can cream of
1 onion, chopped mushroom soup
1 clove garlic, smashed
Cook squash for 10 minutes. Brown hamburger,
onion, and garlic. Add cheese, soup and squash. Mix
well. Put in a medium-size casserole dish and cover
with cracker crumbs. Bake at 325¢ªF for one hour.

Zucchini Salad
1 lb zucchini 1 tbsp vegetable oil
salt dash of oregano
1 cup yogurt 1 garlic clove, crushed
Juice of one lemon 14 tsp sugar
dash finely chopped dill dash of pepper
Peel squash and slice in thin slices. Toss with enough salt to cover zucchini. Let stand 15 minutes. Drain. Marinate squash slices with the rest of ingredients.

Cooperative Extension Service -- August 4, 2005

Thrips

Thrips are teeny, 1/25-inch long, cigar-shaped insects that are yellow to light brown in color. They have been clustering in large numbers in flowers, lettuces, and many other plants this season. They like white, yellow, and light-colored blooms, and are attracted to lima and snap beans, corn, onions, and squash, among many others. You can observe where they have been by the discarded white tissue and dark fecal pellets that they leave behind after feeding on the plant’s sap. They scar and discolor petals and leaves by scraping and puncturing, and foliage may lighten in color and wither. Heavy infestations are indicated by foliage with a scorched appearance with destroyed blossoms.

Adults overwinter in greenhouses, weeds, grasses, and in crop residues. They lay their eggs in leaf tissue, fruit, or stems in the springtime. Nymphs and adults feed on sap and damage the leaves, buds, and stems. Nymphs will drop to the ground to pupate. Several generations will be produced each year. Healthy plants are not bothered by light feedings of thrips, so focus your attention on keeping them growing strong.

The best way to control thrips is to disturb their overwintering areas by using good fall garden cleanup & tilling methods. As a barrier, mulches discourage thrips from infesting plants. Aluminum foil mulch really confuses thrips. Diatomaceous earth dusted around the base of plants, as well as up the stem and on both sides of the leaves, is a great barrier that will discourage thrips and many other pests from making your garden their buffet table. Apply at night to target destructive insect species.

A regular, aggressive spray of water will dislodge thrips, and will be effective in reducing populations if repeated three times a day, for three days, to get the new and old hatches of thrips. Predaceous mites will take care of the thrips happily. Insecticidal soap applied every three days for two weeks will stop most infestations, if noticed in the early stages. Make sure to apply the soap to both the tops and the bottoms of the leaves. A garlic spray that repels thrips is made from chopping garlic, onions or chives, mixed with water and strained. Add a few drops of dish soap as a surfactant. For more serious infestations, use a light horticultural oil (2-3% solution), neem oil, or pyrethrum. Always follow the package instructions on any pesticide, herbicide, or other horticultural product.

For more information, or any other questions regarding horticulture and insects, contact the Cooperative Extension Service in the Jarvis Office Center at 895-4215. Happy growing!

August 2, 2005 -- By Sara Engebretson
IPM Technician, UAF-Cooperative Extension Service

 Many people in Delta enjoy the simple pleasures in life such as having a midnight campfire on the Delta River.  Photo Courtesy Melissa Walters

Troop 56 and the Delta Clearwater River

Troop 56 recently floated the Delta Clearwater River from the campground to Randy and Vicki Bealer home next to the river. The boys and their families enjoyed fishing, berry picking, and even swimming? Taylor caught a nice 18 inch Arctic grayling (see picture). At the Bealer's, scouts had a wonderful potluck, halibut and rockfish from their recent fishing trip at Valdez and a Court of Honor Ceremony in which several boys advanced in rank.

Photos Courtesy Fronty Parker

SURPLUS FARM EQUIPMENT SALE
Solicitation No. SAL-061585

The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District will receive sealed bids for the sale of SURPLUS FARM EQUIPMENT until 4:30PM, 05-Aug-2005.

Interested parties may inspect the property at:

North Pole High School
601 NPHS Blvd
North Pole, AK 99705

from 01-Aug-2005 through 05-Aug-2005 between the hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Interested parties are requested to call the FNSBSD Shipping and Receiving Department (Bill Rogers, 456-4114) to set up an appointment to inspect the property.

Equipment included: John Deere Side Rack, Howard Rototiller, Hay bailer, Livestock scale, Datsun Pick-up Bed Trailer, Seed Spreader, Flatbed box, Heavy Duty Trailer, New Holland Haybine, Spike toothed Harrow for a John Deere Tractor, Zamboni attachment, John Deere Tractor Model 2240, Large and small loader bucket.

For a complete listing of items or questions concerning this sale call Ruth Keator at phone 452-2000, Ext. 341.

August 6, 2005 -- Ruth Keator

Young bull moose sports a velvet rack while grazing along Nistler Road.  Photo Courtesy Dwight Phillips

Delta Farm Tour Scheduled for August 10th
From the Cooperative Extension Service

Anyone interested in learning about agriculture and would like to spend a day touring Delta’s farming community can sign up to attend the Delta Farm Tour scheduled for Wednesday, August 10th.

The tour begins with registration at the Cooperative Extension Service Conference Room located in the Jarvis Office Center. The journey through the Clearwater area will provide opportunities to see homesteads and farmsteads, with a spectacular panorama of the Alaska Range.

Participants will travel down the Alaska Highway turning off on Clearwater Road with the first stop at Dennis Green and Son's pellet mill where folks can see the value added products being produced in the
Interior and marketed as livestock feed throughout the State. Next on the tour a visit to the Alaska Farmer's Co-op for a tour of the Grain and Fertilizer Plant with manager Dave Ferdinand. Prior to lunch a stop will be made at Northwest Land and Livestock, locally owned and operated by Doug and Cathie McCollum and their daughter Jeannie and son-in-law Russ Pinkelman. The tour gives a first hand look at a beef and hog production operation.

The Delta Farm Bureau will host an Alaska grown luncheon at the Clearwater Lodge. After lunch the tour will continue down Remington Road to the Dennis Green & Son's Reindeer Farm where participants can get an up close view of these reindeer and the people that raise them. Traveling down back roads the tour will continue on to Northern Lights Dairy, milk processing and ice cream plant. Don and Lois Lintelman will provide a history of their farm and an opportunity to observe a farm that manages their operation all the way from growing feed for the cows to putting the milk & ice cream on store shelves.

First or last stop - depending on the schedule - the tour will visit the Highways End Farmers Market, located in the city of Delta Junction. The farmers market has been operating since 2003 and offers a variety of products from Alaska Grown produce, baked goods, and hand made items.

The buses are scheduled to return to the Jarvis Office Center at 5:00 p.m. Paid reservations for this all day tour must be received by Friday, August 4, 2005 to qualify for the $35 per person registration fee. Reservations received/postmarked after this date will be $40 per person. Cancellations are non-refundable after August 4, 2005.Part of the tour will be spent outdoors and walking will be required so
please wear comfortable shoes and have a jacket if the weather is cool. You are also encouraged to bring drinking water, as refreshment opportunities will be limited.

Mail registration with payment, check or
money order made payable to AFB-Delta, PO Box 349, Delta Junction, Alaska 99737 or stop by the CES office in Room 114/115, Jarvis Office Center. Call (907) 895-4215 for additional information.
This event is sponsored by the Cooperative Extension Service - Delta District and hosted by the Alaska Farm Bureau-Delta Chapter. e-mail: fncmr1@uaf.edu

Registration Fee: $35.00 per person
Registration deadline is August 4, 2005
Registration & fee must be received by 8/4/05
Late registration fee is $40.00
Cancellations are non-refundable after 8/4/05

Seating is limited, please register early to confirm a space. There may be two bus departure times so please include contact information for follow up.

Tiger lilies grace the flower beds in front of Mike and Barb Rawalt's home. - Photo Courtesy Mike Rawalt

Best of Broccoli

 Broccoli grows extremely well in Interior Alaska. However, in order for this plant to mature, it is usually grown from transplants.

Cut worms and root maggots tend to bother the roots of the plant, but the head of the plant is usually not affected by insects. Some fresh broccoli recipes recommend soaking in salt water to remove insects; which is usually not necessary for Alaska grown broccoli.

Broccoli is low in calories, only 40 calories per cup, and high in some important nutrients. One cup of cooked broccoli provides 19% of the Daily Value for folate, 21% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A (as Carotenes), and 193% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C. It is also a good source of dietary fiber: 4 grams (16% of the Daily Value)
per cup of cooked broccoli.

Freezing Broccoli
The food preservation method that yields the best
results for broccoli is freezing. Split stalks lengthwise so that flowerets are no more that 112 inches across. Blanch in boiling water for three minutes or steam blanch for five minutes. Cool promptly in cold water and drain. Pack broccoli into freezer containers, leaving no head space. Seal and freeze. Broccoli will store for 8-12 months in the freezer.

Recipes for broccoli.  Click here.

Cooperative Extension Service -- July 28, 2005

Alumni Photos can be found here
July 25, 2005

Another Fair Factor event was running THREE-LEGGED through the mud bog pit. See more fair photos in the community news section
Photo Courtesy Kris Enderle


Fire Fighter Jessica Smith sprays off contestants.
Photo Courtesy Kris Enderle


Fireman's Muster competition was Saturday afternoon. Photo Courtesy Kris Enderle

Fair Factor. Photo Courtesy Kris Enderle

Mother and young Arctic Loon recently seen on Fielding Lake.  Photo Courtesy Fronty Parker

Wood Frogs

Wood frogs, Rana sylvatica, are a really fun part of our summer host of wild friends in the Delta ecosystem. They are beneficial to man because they eat insects throughout the course of their life span. Wood frogs can grow up to 3 inches long, have smooth skin, are light brown or gray, and have many pattern variations. It usually has a dark eye mask, its underbelly is creamy white, and it often has a stripe and dark spots down its back. The dark spots and stripe on its back is typical of northern wood frogs, and the markings play a role in the frog’s heat economy by absorbing more solar energy. The wood frog is found in diverse habitats, and is the most widely distributed frog in Alaska. They have been noted from southeast Alaska to the north of the Brooks Range.

In spring, the make attracts the female to shallow ponds and standing water to breed with a call that sounds amazingly like a duck. The call’s sound is often magnified greatly because they open their mouths just at the water’s surface, making a large bubble, and the sound is amplified as it breaks the bubble. During the spring migration around Delta, at times it is hard to tell the waterfowl from the frogs! The eggs are fertilized externally, and the masses are attached to the submerged vegetation to avoid surface freezing. Eggs rapidly develop into tadpoles and then into frogs, so that the adult stage is reached before fall temperatures freeze.

Frogs are active during daylight hours, and enjoy bathing in the sun. They prey on small insects, and, in turn, wood frogs become the prey of larger animals and birds. In late July and August, the adults disappear from our view as they make their well-insulated nesting pockets under the forest floor. They hibernate in shallow, bowl-shaped depressions in the upper layers of accumulated plant and organic material, known as “duff”. They place additional duff over the pocket for insulation, and then snow cover provides even more insulation.

As their extremities begin to freeze, the wood frogs’ bodies signal the liver to manufacture antifreeze. Wood frogs make their own sugar antifreeze as their liver converts glycogen to glucose, which floods the cells vital to the frogs’ survival. The glucose lowers the freezing point of water, and organizes the remaining water in the cells so that the cell membranes are protected from damage. The cells are also able to resist the effects of freeze-drying because of this chemical change. This is essential because two-thirds of the water in the frogs’ bodies freeze. The frog’s eyeballs and brain become rock-solid in the winter and the heart stops beating. As they thaw out, they are up and running and back to life!

For more information, or any other questions about horticulture and insects, contact the Cooperative Extension Service in the Jarvis Office Center at 895-4215. Happy frogging!

By Sara Engebretson/IPM Technician, UAF – Cooperative Extension Service - August 18, 2005

Happy Birthday August 19 - August 25

Happy belated birthday on August 19th to Cindy Blake a great mom and grandma!! Love Amber, DJ, Andrew, and Naomi Boothe

Happy Birthday Aug 20- Lynn Dickson

Happy Birthday Aug 21- Stefan Skovrinski

Happy Birthday: Josiah Merrymon (a whopping 2 years) 23-Aug

Happy Birthday to Annette Frankson - Aug 24.
Coming from Mom, dad and your sisters. Many more to come. Love you

Happy Birthday Aug 25- Robyn Joslin-Smith

Happy Birthday Aug 25- Helen Orcutt

Happy Birthday Aug 25- Jeff Sloan

Robyn Smith on Aug 25 -" Happy Birthday with love, Lee".

Happy Anniversary August 19 - August 25

Happy Anniversary Aug 20 Tim & Sara Merrymon

Happy Anniversary Aug 20- "Bill" & Leigh Dennison

Happy Anniversary Aug 20- Ann & Bob Geise

Happy Anniversary Aug 21 -Carl and Julie Taylor  

Happy Anniversary Aug 22- Courtney & Jeff Durham

Happy Anniversary Aug 23- Lisa & Rodger Sturgis

Happy Anniversary Aug 25- Cheryl & Dan Green

Fort Greely Fire Department Training

Ft Greely Fire Dept Engine 18, Fire Fighter A. Lima and a Ground Squirrel  One day while training, these were a few photos that Jay wanted to share with the DNW and the community. Photos Courtesy Jay Miller FDFC

Library Closed through Monday Aug 22

The Delta Community Library will be CLOSED Thursday August 18 through Monday August 22 for scheduled building maintenance, inventory, system upgrades and fireplace hearth installation. Thank you for your patience and support as we work hard to serve you even better. Be sure to stop by and check out the changes next week.

August 17, 2005

This is one of the photographer’s favorite Alaskan wildflowers. This particular image was taken of a single flower in a large bunch in a road meridian near Fairbanks. Photo Courtesy Dwight Phillips

Kathy Zachgo Article in the Anchorage News

Long time Kathy Zachgo article --
1st of 2 parts

August 15, 2005

Look for Dunk Tank at the Deltana Fair!

The Dunk Tank at this year’s Deltana Fair will be operated by Delta High School students hoping to participate in the Close-Up Program, which gives students a chance to learn about government on a visit to Washington, D.C., later in the school year.
Two notables have already agreed to “sit the tank”, according to Kyena Cornelius -- they are Delta/Greely School District Superintendent Dan Beck and Fort Greely School Principal Brian Schaefer. The students are also out to recruit others in the community who will encourage Fairgoers to pay to pitch balls to dunk their favorite “sitters”!

August 17, 2005

Amateur Talent Show

Everyone is welcome to enter the Deltana Fair Talent Show -- there will be age divisions to accommodate youngsters age six and under, young teens, older teens and adults.

The Master of Ceremonies for the Talent Show this year will be Brian Schaefer, principal at Fort Greely School. The show goes on at 2:30 pm Sunday on the Wells Fargo Stage. Participants need to check in no later than 2 pm.

August 17, 2005

Sorry, No Animals at the Fairgrounds

Animals are not permitted on the Fairgrounds, with the exception of seeing-eye dogs, animals entered as exhibits, in contests or in the Pet Show.
This long-standing rule has not been enforced in recent years, however, with more people attending the Deltana Fair each year, it becomes more important.

Pets competing in the Pet Show should be returned home when the show is over. The Deltana Fair Association appreciates your cooperation and understanding.

August 17, 2005

Fair Baby Show

Make plans to enter your bouncing baby boy or your little princess in the Deltana Fair Baby Show. Moms, dads and grandparents are welcome and encouraged to enter their pride and joy, two years old and under. The Baby Show is scheduled for 4 pm on Saturday.

There will be prizes for everyone and a special plaque for the Fastest Diapern’ Dad. Start practicing, Dads!

August 17, 2005

First Day of School

The first day of school was scheduled to be August 22.  This date has now been moved to September 6, 2005.  Good luck to all of students, staff, teachers, cooks, and custodians for the 2005-2006 school year.

August 13, 2005

Fair exhibitors can Win Ribbons and Cash Premiums

Are you entering exhibits in the 2005 Deltana Fair? First place wins a blue ribbon and $3; second place gets a red ribbon and $2, and third place merits a white ribbon and $1. Class Champions win a purple rosette ribbon and another $2.

Cash Premiums will be available for pickup after 12 noon on Saturday at the Large Exhibit Hall or the Fair Office on the Fairgrounds.
Exhibits may be picked up between 5 and 6 pm on Sunday, after the official closing of the Fair. The exhibit hall area will also be open on Monday, August 22, for exhibit pickup from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 to 6 pm. Any exhibits left after 6 pm on Monday will be subject to disposal.

August 17, 2005

Teen Dance at Deltana Fair!

Delta Youth Court is again sponsoring a Teen Dance at the 2005 Deltana Fair Friday night, August 19, from 8pm till midnight. We will be featuring the DJ services of Jose Martinez, the DJ we had last year. This dance is open to all area Teens and admission is $3.00 or a canned/boxed food donation for Alpha/Omega's food program. Call Jody Zollman at 895-5328 for more information.

August 13, 2005

Happy Birthday August 12 - August 18

Happy Birthday Aug 12- Savanna Frederick

Happy Birthday Aug 12- Jeff Hannan

Happy Birthday Aug 13- Mary Saarloos

Grandma and Papoo just wanted to let Cassie and Tierney know that on their 7th birthday, Aug 14, we love you both and wish you both a Very happy birthday and will be thinking of you. And miss you both. Love Grandma and Papoo

Happy Birthday Aug 14- Pamela Ellis

Happy Birthday Aug 14- Jared Creviston

Happy Birthday Aug 15- Mike Carnevale

Happy Birthday Aug 15- Gunnar Hallgren

Happy Birthday Aug 16- Cheryl Helkenn

Happy Birthday Aug 17- Debbie Heral

Happy Birthday Aug 17 - Lorena Riesgaard

J - Aug 17 - You know who you are - Happy BIG 50, Love your friend in Virginia

Happy 10th!! Birthday Cheyenne! Love Mom & Dad. Aug 17

Happy Birthday Aug 18- Butch Ellis

Happy Birthday Aug 18- Rachelle Purucker
 

Happy Anniversary August 12 - August 18

Happy Anniversary Aug 12- Eula & Paul Nistler

Another sweltering day in Delta. What a way to stay cool. Photo Courtesy Michael Kingston/CRTC

2005 Deltana Fair is August 19, 20 & 21
“Farming in the Friendly Frontier”

First entries are due on Tuesday, August 16
Everyone is welcome to enter exhibits in the Deltana Fair. Non-perishable entries are due Tuesday, August 16, between 10 am and 6 pm. Entry day for perishables, including culinary, is Thursday, August 18, between 6:30 and 8:30 am (take entries in on your way to work!) and between 10 am and 2 pm. All exhibits must be entered according to the schedules noted here and in the Premium Book.

The Deltana Fair Premium Book (exhibitor’s guide) is available free of charge at several locations in Delta, including the Alaska Farmers Co-op, the Ag offices in Jarvis Office Center, Calico Cow, the Delta Community Library, and Busy Bee Office Supply / Help Secretarial in the AMC Building.

Entry forms for various Deltana Fair activities are also available at Busy Bee Office Supply / Help Secretarial. Exhibit tags can also be picked up there for those who want to fill them out before delivering exhibits to the fairgrounds.

The Fair will open at 12 noon on Friday, August 19, and close at 5 pm on Sunday, August 21. Opening time Saturday and Sunday is 8 am; closing time Friday and Saturday is 10 pm. A Teen Dance is planned for Friday evening, with a Family Dance Saturday evening in the Deltana Fair’s new Activities Building.

There will a lot of fun for the young, the young-at-heart and the “I remember when” crowd, too. A weekend full of entertainment, including Comedy / Hypnotist Alan Sands “The Sandman”, awaits Fairgoers. There will be an assortment of “fair food” to enjoy, and numerous vendors -- some familiar and some new to Deltana Fair.

The “Pipeline Run in the Late Night Sun” welcomes everyone -- run, walk or stroll the full 5K or the 3K, your choice. Pick up an entry form today for more information -- the entry fee is lower if you enter before race day!

The annual Deltana Fair Parade takes place Saturday morning of Fair Weekend, with check-in at 10 am for line-up and an 11 am start. Entry forms should be postmarked by Friday, August 12, to compete for a plaque in one of nine categories, plus Best Use of Theme (Farming in the Friendly Frontier), and the Sweepstakes.

Both Saturday morning and Sunday morning, members of the Delta Lions Club will be serving up their famous Pancakes and Ham Breakfast -- they’ll also have a Steak Dinner Saturday evening.
There will be Mud Races going on Saturday and Sunday and the mud boggers are including a special (no entry fee / trophies only) category for farm tractors this year!

Line up a good partner and sign up early for the Deltana Fair “Fair Factor” Challenge. This all-three-days event offers $900 in cash prizes.

The Amateur Talent Show is also open to everyone and offers cash prizes. Entry forms are available at Busy Bee in the AMC Building. You can also pick up an entry form for the Public Speaking Contest -- more cash prizes!

The schedule includes the annual Baby Show and Fastest Diaperin’ Dad contest, as well as the popular Pet Show, and the Pie-Eating Contest.
You won’t want to miss the Cowboy Mounted Shootout on Saturday or the DJ Saddletramps 4-H Playday on Sunday. Both of these events take place in the Alyeska Horse Arena.

For additional information about the upcoming Deltana Fair, browse through a Premium Book or call 895-FAIR (3247); please leave a message if necessary.

August 11, 2005

Last Day to Register to Vote

Sunday, September 4, 2005 is the last day to register to be eligible to vote in the General Municipal Election on October 4, 2005.

For additional information, contact Pat White at City Hall (895-4656).  To view this entire article click here

August 10, 2005 -- Pat White

Your Voter Registration Application must be postmarked before Sunday, September 4. An application can also be used to update your existing registration. State and City law requires 30 days before an election to register or make changes to your voter’s registration. You may obtain an application from City Hall during business hours or download one from the state website (www.elections.state.ak.us). The Elections Office will accept faxed applications until Sunday, September 4. Send it to (907) 451-2832. Once your application is processed, a voter identification card will be mailed to your mailing address within 3 to 4 weeks.

When you vote, if your name is not on the registration list for your precinct, you will be asked to vote a questioned ballot. It is important to make sure your address is current with the Regions III Elections Office in Fairbanks. Contact them at 451-2835 for further questions.

For additional information, contact Pat White at City Hall (895-4656).

August 10, 2005 -- Pat White

Hiking: Left to right, Barb Parker, Fronty Parker, and Kenna DuBois are shown hiking to Gulkana Glacier (seen in the background) in the Alaska Range about 50 miles south of Delta during July. The glacier is receding, so newly exposed ground is being revegetated.
 
The 7.9 Denali fault earthquake that rattled us in November 2002 resulted in several impressive rock slides in the Alaska Range south of Delta Junction. This is a view looking east, or down, Black Rapids Glacier. There are 3 rock slides that flowed off the south side of the glacier, across the glacier, and up the lateral moraine on the north side.


McGinnis: This is a view of the McGinnis Creek rock slide that resulted from the Denali earthquake. Photos Courtesy Steve Dubois

The placid waters of Summit Lake are seen here reflecting the image of its neighboring mountain range. Photo Courtesy of Melissa Walters

This crane appears to be scolding the rest of the flock. This picture taken at Creamer's Field, Fairbanks, AK Photo Courtesy Dwight Phillips

Executive Proclamation of Farmer's Market Week

Larry DeVilbiss, Director of the Division of Agriculture, announces the Governor's Executive Proclamation of Farmer's Market Week, August 7-13. An estimated $3.5 million worth of Alaska Grown products are sold to residents and visitors at the 16 different markets operating across the state from May to October - including the Delta Highway's End Market.

The Division of Agriculture is excited about the Governor's recognition of the importance of Farmer's Markets and encourages all Alaskans and visitors to observe the week by attending an enjoying the Farmer's Markets operating near them. Find your local Farmer's Market

August 5, 2005

Happy Birthday August 6 - August 11

Happy Birthday Aug 8- Jeffrey Barger

Happy Birthday Aug 8- Dan Adams

Happy Birthday Aug 8- David Gardner

Happy Birthday Aug 9- Lois Cosgrove

Happy Birthday Aug 9 -  Grandma (Lois Cosgrove) from Texas! Hugs and Kisses from Dylan, Darby, and Samantha.

Happy Birthday Aug 9 - Grandma (Lois Cosgrove)! Love Tami and Jamie

Happy Birthday Aug 10- Bertha Baugus

Happy Birthday Aug 11- Hillel Echo-Hawk

Aug 11 - Joseph Becker . Happy Birthday, Mom & Dad

Happy Anniversary Aug6 - Aug 11

Happy Anniversary Aug 7- Cay & Glen Wright

Happy Anniversary Aug 8- Darlene & Al Chaffin

Happy Anniversary Aug 9- Lisa & Andrew Kozarik

Happy Anniversary Aug 10- Judi & John Hite

Happy Anniversary Aug 11- Mary Corcoran & Pat Schlichting

Happy Anniversary Aug 11- Mary & Andy Andrews

This image was taken above the Black Rapids Glacier of the Alaska Range as it spreads south...note the fresh avalanche near the center of the image. Photo Courtesy Michael Kingston/CRTC

Alaska's Interior is home to many types of waterfowl that migrate thru in the spring and fall seasons.
 Photo courtesy of Melissa Walters

Alumni Photos can be found here
August 3, 2005

Delta Farm Tour Scheduled for Aug 10th
From the Cooperative Extension Service

Photo Courtesy Don Quarberg. -- August 4, 2005

Anyone interested in learning about agriculture and would like to spend a day touring Delta’s farming community can sign up to attend the Delta Farm Tour scheduled for Wednesday, August 10th.

The tour begins with registration at the Cooperative Extension Service Conference Room located in the Jarvis Office Center. The journey through the Clearwater area will provide opportunities to see homesteads and farmsteads, with a spectacular panorama of the Alaska Range.

One of the most frequently seen wildflowers is the Wild Prickly Rose of summer, seen in the Interior regions of Alaska. Photo Courtesy Art Lenon.

Aglow International

Are you looking for a fun and caring atmosphere of faith building support?

AGLOW INT'L: a network of caring women, a non-denominational faith-building organization rooted in local groups; international in scope, yet one-on-one in ministry.

Aglow welcomes women of all ages.

Delta Junction offers two Aglow group meetings a week (to suit your schedule). Delta Day Aglow meets for Bible study on Monday mornings at 9:30 downstairs in the Arctic Fox building on Nistler Road. Children are welcome, too.

Delta Evening Aglow meets on Thursday evenings at 7:00 at 1699 Harper Ave. For more information please call Kathy Fields at 895-1950 (cell 978-3982) or Fran Hallgren at 895-5532. Please, come join us.

August 1, 2005 -- Fran Hallgren

Happy Birthday July 30 - Aug 5

Happy Birthday July 31 - Shirlene Wrigley

Happy Birthday July 31 - Jay Miller

Happy Birthday Aug 1 - Steve Cullison

Happy Birthday Aug 1- Gary Schoening

Happy Birthday Aug 2- Kelly Giese

Happy Birthday Aug 2- Ivan Hebert

Happy Birthday Aug 3- Jeffery Durham

Happy Birthday Aug 3- Howard Echo-Hawk

Happy Birthday Aug 4- Dave Zimmerman

Happy Birthday Aug 4- Marika Adams

Happy Anniversary July 30 - Aug 5 

Happy Anniversary Aug 3- Cheryl & Bill Helkenn

Happy Anniversary Aug 4- Nancy & Butch Johnson

Happy Anniversary Aug 4- Coleen & Shane Fett

Happy 27th Anniversary Louis and Evelyn Glass

Interested in Starting a Rotary Club

The Rotary Clubs of Fairbanks and North Pole are very interested in helping to sponsor additional Rotary Clubs and would like to know if the business and professional leadership of Delta Junction is interested in forming a club there. There may be former Rotarians located in Delta now who might be interested in assisting me in getting such an endeavor off the ground.

I have been a member of the Fairbanks Downtown Rotary Club for two years and have thoroughly enjoyed my association with this service-based organization. The Fairbanks Rotary clubs are heavily involved in supporting local causes that range from the Literacy Council, Food Bank, Hospice of the Tanana Valley and Love, Inc., to the fight against diabetes. We host foreign exchange high school students, support Rotary’s worldwide goal of the eradication of polio financially as well as with personal time commitments. We sponsor international projects to bring dental and health services and clean water to areas of need around the world. These are just a few examples.

I’d like to encourage those who are interested to call me at the number listed below to express your interest or to ask any questions that you may have about Rotary. If there is sufficient interest in forming a Rotary Club in Delta Junction we’d like to host an organizational meeting in Delta in the near future…(Read that as after fishing & hunting seasons are over!) I’ve included some additional information about Rotary and its objectives and mission below. More information on Alaskan Interior Rotary Clubs can be found at www.InteriorRotary.org. Thanks for your time and consideration. I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Jim Malingowski (907) 456-5537

About Rotary
Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. In more than 160 countries worldwide, approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 30,000 Rotary clubs.
Rotary club membership represents a cross-section of the community's business and professional men and women. The world's Rotary clubs meet weekly and are nonpolitical, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races, and creeds.

Object of Rotary
The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster:
FIRST. The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service;
SECOND. High ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian's occupation as an opportunity to serve society;
THIRD. The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian's personal, business and community life;
FOURTH. The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.

Rotary International Mission Statement
The mission of Rotary International is to support its member clubs in fulfilling the Object of Rotary by: Fostering unity among member clubs;
· Strengthening and expanding Rotary around the world;
· Communicating worldwide the work of Rotary; and
· Providing a system of international administration.

July 29, 2005

Potluck for Sorensen Family

A potluck is planned for, Thursday, August 4, 7:00 PM,  at the City Park. Come join everyone to send off John, Sheena and Dave Sorensen. And please pass the word so others have the chance to come (on such short notice).

August 3, 2005

Delta Farm Tour Scheduled for August 10th
From the Cooperative Extension Service

Photo Courtesy Don Quarberg. -- July 28, 2005

Caring For Your Raspberry Patch

Wild raspberries are wonderful this season! They transplant into gardens and produce very well with a little care. ‘Kiska’ is a cultivated variety that has demonstrated the most hardiness in our dry and windy winter climate. Some other varieties worth trying include ‘Latham’, ‘Cuthbert’, ‘Chief’, and ‘Mammoth Red’. Raspberry plants are biennial, producing “primocanes” the first year, which will not set fruit. In the second year, they will produce “floricanes”, which flower, produce fruit, and then die. During the second year, new primocanes will be produced which will bear fruit the next year. From the second year on, with a little pruning, thinning, and compost, your berry brambles will be producing treats for your table. Not only are the fruits delectable fresh, frozen, or dried, but also the leaves make a delightful and healthy tea.

The best soils for raspberries are a silty or sandy loam with a pH of 5.5-7.5. Cultivate your new raspberry patch for at least a year before planting to get control of perennial and annual weeds. When starting a new patch, make sure to only transplant fruitless primocanes when dormant, in early spring or late fall. Amend the soil with about a pound of compost per square foot before planting to increase fertility and organic matter content. Continue to add side-dressings of compost annually to increase fertility. You can also apply 8-32-16 fertilizer at 2 pounds per 100 feet of row before June 1st. Irrigation will make a big difference in berry size and quantity, especially in years with minimal precipitation.

Space your starter plants about 2 ½ feet apart in the row, with rows about 2 feet wide. In a few years, sucker plants will fill in the empty spaces. Raspberries will grow 6-8 feet per season under cultivation. You will want to space your rows widely apart if you do not plan to install a trellis, because the plants will spread out and downward when they become heavy with fruit, making harvesting more difficult. You can prune the canes to a height of about 4 feet to keep them from getting top-heavy and drooping.
A good trellis uses 5 feet high steel stakes or wood posts, spaced 12 feet apart down the row, with two levels of strong wire on each side of the row at about 2 and 4 feet high. Take a little time as your raspberry plants grow to train them into the trellis in the early summer, and your time spent harvesting will be much more enjoyable. After training the canes, connect each side of the wire together with twist-ties to keep the canes erect. This will save space in your garden and maximize productivity. You can also make a trellis on each side of the row, or use posts with “T” cross bars to connect the wires from each side. There are many trellis variations to experiment with!

Pruning and thinning are essential to a healthy, productive raspberry patch. You may prune canes after they have become dormant in the fall, or wait until spring to assess winter damage. Remove all of the dead floricanes, which are usually dark-stemmed with long lateral branches. Then thin the remaining canes to 8 large, healthy canes per foot of row to ensure a flourishing crop to come. The tips of the canes are one of the least productive parts of the raspberry plant, and pruning of the tips is recommended.

Pests of the wild and cultivated raspberry include aphids, raspberry fruitworms and root weevils. The raspberry fruitworm is a beetle that feeds on fruit buds and leaves, and lay eggs on buds or stems. The larvae hatch and move into the developing fruit where they feed on the central white core. Then they drop to the ground, pupate in the soil, and emerge as adults in the spring. They do not usually occur in large populations. Soak your berries in water, and the larvae will float to the top for easy removal. Root weevils are less common, and sometimes infest strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, and cranberry plants. They can be recognized early because they remove distinct notches from plant leaves. The best method to discourage the raspberry fruitworm and root weevil is to keep the area between rows and under plants well pruned, free of weeds, and tilled regularly to destroy the larvae and pupae in the soil.

Raspberry orange rust is a common disease that can be problematic. It is also responsible for rust on the wild rose hips. Powdery mildew can also be a problem, as well as gray mold or “botrytis” of fruit. Keep your berry patch well pruned, weeded, and tilled to allow for proper air circulation to discourage these diseases. When irrigating, use a drip watering system or take care only to water the base of the plants to avoid excess moisture on the leaves, blossoms and unpicked fruits. If you have diseased canes, make sure to prune them in the fall. Keep your raspberries and potatoes apart, as they are both pone tro verticillium wilt.

For more information, or questions about horticulture and insects, contact the Cooperative Extension Service in the Jarvis Office Center at 895-4215.

July 26, 2005

Memorial Service Brantly Bailey

Saturday, July 30, 2005 - 7:30 PM.  Delta Community Center - Potlatch Following Service
We Need Your Help!


Brantly Bailey
September 3, 1980 - July 23, 2005

The Bailey Family is trying to get five family members here from Missouri for Brantly’s Memorial Service this coming Saturday. Tickets are around $600 apiece.

To donate airline miles (Northwest or Alaska Air) or
cash contributions to assist in purchasing tickets, please contact Misty Lanegan @ 869-3241.

Cash contributions may be delivered to Misty @
building 601 or deposited into Wells Fargo account
#1091301752 (Ella Bailey) In this time of need, THANK YOU to the Fort Greely Family for all your help!

July 28, 2005

Reia LeAnn Zernick, 15 months, is out cruising on the 4 Wheeler with Papa Bobo. Reia is the daughter of Travis and Michelle (Bobo) Zernick. 
Photo Courtesy Michelle Zernick

(Melissa Walters dog, Genie) takes in the view from the top of Donnelly Dome as the clouds cast their shadows on the valley below.  Photo Courtesy Melissa Walters