103     November 23, 2007 - 6:45am | dougj

Shauna Johnstone

Anchorage resident and 17 year old Bartlett High School Junior Shauna Johnstone has been selected by audition and invitation only to attend The Millie Lewis Actors, Models & Talent Competition at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando, Florida July 1-7, 2008.
Shauna auditioned with over 120 other contestant and is 1 of 36 selected to attend the convention by the National Scout and Regional Director of Actors, Models & Talent Competition(AMTC) as a Runway and Photography model.
Shauna will be representing Laura Model & Talent Agency of Anchorage. She will be coached in all aspects of modeling over the next 6 months by Laura Dagon owner of Laura Model & Talent Agency and her Staff.

  102     November 19, 2007 - 2:41pm | jordo

Clarus Technologies expands Eagle River environmental division

New hires from Hart Crowser include Steve Gruhn, P.E.

ANCHORAGE – Clarus Environmental Services, a division of Alaska Native-owned Clarus Technologies, LLC, enjoyed growth in October when it acquired the Alaska business contracts and personnel formerly held by Hart Crowser. In the process Clarus expanded its professional engineering staff with the hire of Steve Gruhn, P.E., Bruce Ream, R.P.A., and Caryn Orvis, all formerly of Hart Crowser.

“Clarus Environmental Services has been reshaped by acquiring this Alaska book of business and capabilities,” said Karl Thomas, Clarus’ CEO. “Our new projects and strengthened team lineup translate into expanded expertise and a more robust engineering capability in the State of Alaska.”

Clarus, a subsidiary of Koniag Development Corporation (KDC), holds term contracts with the Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Coast Guard, Elmendorf Air Force Base, the Port of Anchorage, the Alaska Army National Guard and the Alaska Railroad Corp.

Clarus’ environmental division, based in Eagle River, AK, provides engineering and consulting services such as environmental management, investigations and mitigation, site studies, environmental program management, and cultural and natural resource management. Professionals on staff include engineers, chemists, biologists, anthropologists, archaeologists, agronomists, resource specialists and geologists.

KDC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Koniag, Inc., which is one of 13 regional Alaska Native corporations established under the terms of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. KDC operates as Koniag’s business arm and manages most of the business operations and real estate holdings. Clarus is an SBA 8(a) ANC certified company owned by KDC. For more information contact Clarus Environmental Services at (907) 694-4272 or KDC at (907) 261-4040.

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  101     November 14, 2007 - 12:48pm | JudyKoskela

Ten Girl Scout Volunteers Honored

Ten Girl Scout volunteers were honored for their service to Girl Scouting at the annual meeting of Girl Scouts Susitna Council held on Saturday, November 3, 2007 at the Nicolas Begich Middle School in Anchorage.

Liz Rupert of Anchorage received the Girl Scout Appreciation Pin, along with Sarah Sweet and Charlotte Maynard of Wasilla and Debbie Anderson of Homer. The Appreciation Pin recognizes an adult who has delivered service beyond expectation to at least one geographic area, service unit, or program delivery audience in a way that furthers the council’s goals.

The Girl Scout Honor Pin was presented to Kris Miller and Karol Fogel of Eagle River, Elizabeth Todd and Cheryl Hampton of Wasilla and Patty Deren of Anchorage. The Honor Pin is given for service performed that is outstanding, above and beyond the expectations of the position held, and is delivered to two or more geographic divisions or service units within the council’s jurisdiction and contributes to the council’s goals and objectives.

The Girl Scout Spouse of the Year Award was presented to Paul Willman of Eagle River.
Girl Scouts Susitna Council created the Spouse of the Year Award to give recognition to that special spouse who has supported that Girl Scout volunteer’s efforts.

The Girl Scout service areas of Little-Su, Palmer and Wasilla also received the President’s Award for excellence in their communities. All three communities met or exceeded the criteria of membership growth, leader training, family partnership contributions and product sales.

Fourteen community members were elected to the Board of Directors of Girl Scouts Susitna Council. Elected to serve three-year terms were Wanetta Ayers, Eric Croft, Kathy Day, Tina Day, Jacqueline Evans, Cheryl Frasca, Marie Husa, Monica James, Monica Johnson, Peggy Kugel, Denise Longo, Bill O’Leary, Janet Ulrich and Karen Williams. Angelina Estrada-Burney and Paige de Albuquerque were elected to serve 2-year terms on the Board Development Committee. Peggy Kugel, Meera Kohler and Delisa Culpepper were elected as National Council Delegates.

  100     November 13, 2007 - 2:52pm | cbingham

Dr. Kim Hort wins Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award

SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) pediatric dentist Dr. Kim Hort, DMD, is one of 14 recipients nationwide to earn the 2006-07 Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists.

The Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award honors dentists who score in the top 3 percent of the 2006-07 American Board of Pediatric Dentristry qualifying examination. Dr. Hort returned to SEARHC in August 2007 after completing a residency program in pediatric dentistry at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage, which was administered by Lutheran Medical Center of Brooklyn, N.Y. She started work as a general dentist with the SEARHC Juneau Medical Center in August 2000, but took a leave of absence in May 2005 so she could receive the specialized training in pediatric dentistry.

“I think this award speaks to the quality of practitioners SEARHC has been able to employ,” said Dr. Tom Bornstein, DDS, SEARHC Director of Dental Services. “It also speaks to the high professional standards Dr. Hort has set for herself. Obviously we are quite proud of her for achieving this level of excellence, though, quite frankly, not too surprised.”

Dr. Hort earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Albright College of Reading, Pa. Dr. Hort is a Candidate to earn board certification from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She already has passed the written qualifying exam — which is why she will receive the Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award — and she’s scheduled to take the the oral clinical examination that completes the application in March 2008. When she passes the oral exam, she will be granted Diplomate status by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

Dr. Hort is SEARHC’s first permanent pediatric dentist based in Juneau, and she provides pediatric dental services for children younger than 18 years old who are enrolled in the State of Alaska’s Denali KidCare program and Medicaid. Denali KidCare is a state program that provides health insurance and access to health care for Alaska resident children younger than 18 of working and non-working parents, and for expecting mothers who meet income guidelines. SEARHC partners with the Denali KidCare program to provide pediatric dental services around the region.

For more information about the Denali KidCare program and its eligibility requirements, contact the SEARHC Juneau Medical Center Dental Clinic at 463-4041 or go to the Denali KidCare Web site at http://www.hss.state.ak.us/dhcs/DenaliKidCare/.

  99     November 13, 2007 - 2:37pm | hometown

Governor's Emergency Medical Service Awards announced

Anchorage, Alaska - The Governor's Annual Awards for Emergency Medical Services, sponsored by the Alaska Council on Emergency Medical Services, were announced at the opening session of the annual State EMS Symposium on Nov. 9. Awards were presented Nov. 10 at the 30th annual Alaska EMS Awards Banquet at the Egan Convention Center in Anchorage. Award recipients are:

EMS Citizen Award: Matthew and Cindi Hopwood of Eielson Air Force Base, for their essential actions and interventions at the scene of a mass casualty motor vehicle accident on the Seward Highway.

EMS Provider of the Year Award: Victoria Erickson of Nome, in recognition of her 15 years of exemplary and selfless service to the community of Nome and the Norton Sound.

EMS Educator Award: Jan Dick of Fairbanks, for his 30 years of service to Alaska EMS and the critical link he provides to EMS education in rural Alaska communities.

EMS Administrator Award: Valerie DeFrance of Hope, in recognition of her 20 years of service as a provider, administrator and educator, and her dedication to her community, students and the EMS profession.

George H. Longenbaugh Memorial Award: Jennifer Dow, M.D., of Girdwood, for her tireless efforts in enhancing outdoor emergency medicine in Alaska.

Melissa Ann Peters Memorial Award: Tom Bailey, RN, of Anchorage, in recognition of his improvement and enhancement of the EMS system by providing the highest degree of training to his flight team members and the communities he serves.

Outstanding Ambulance Service Award: Fire Chief William Chadwick and the Girdwood Fire Department in recognition of the agency's dedicated service to the community since 1974.

The Alaska Council on Emergency Medical Services special commendations:

BJ Coopes, M.D., Deborah Lerner, M.D., and Robert Smith II, M.D., all of Anchorage, for their dedication and commitment to EMS and the advancement of high quality pediatric pre-hospital education, and for Dr. Lerner's voluntary provision of medical assistance to Barrow during a severe outbreak of pediatric respiratory illness.

  98     November 12, 2007 - 8:07am | akjesster8

Beth Landon to become president of National Rural Health Assoc.

Beth Landon, director of UAA's Alaska Center for Rural Health (ACRH), recently won her election to become the president-elect of the National Rural Health Association (NRHA). The NRHA is a membership organization dedicated to the improvement of health care services in rural areas.

Rural health care providers, educators and administrators created the Alaska Center for Rural Health in 1987. The Center is housed within the School of Nursing, College of Health and Social Welfare UAA. In 2005, the ACRH secured a federal designation to serve as Alaska’s Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Program – the first in the country to be housed in a School of Nursing. The AHEC enables Alaska to institutionalize a statewide university-industry partnership focused on strengthening our health workforce.

Beth Landon has been active in health affairs since the early 1990s when she developed health education interventions for ethnic minorities in Thailand with the Peace Corps. Since then, she has worked extensively with rural community health needs assessments, youth tobacco prevention, behavior change intervention research, international HIV/AIDS networks, and international finance related to maternal and child health.

As director of the Alaska Center for Rural Health, Landon is responsible for the decision-making process of the ACRH Board of Directors, strengthening state and federal partnerships, implementing research projects in health services, communicating information to Alaska’s rural health system and improving recruitment and retention programs in Alaska.

Congratulations to Beth Landon on this major accomplishment! For more information on the Alaska Center for Rural Health visit http://nursing.uaa.alaska.edu/acrh/.

  97     November 12, 2007 - 7:50am | akjesster8

UAA's Cheryl Easley announced president-elect of APHA

The American Public Health Association will soon have a new president. Cheryl Easley, dean of the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) College of Health and Social Welfare (CHSW), has recently been elected into the role of president-elect of the oldest, largest and most diverse organization of public health professionals in the world. Easley’s tenure as president of the American Public Health Association will be a first for Alaska.

The American Public Health Association has been working to improve public health since 1872. The Association aims to protect all Americans and their communities from preventable, serious health threats and strives to assure community-based health services and disease prevention are universally accessible in the United States. Dean Easley will replace current president Linda C. Degutis when her term is complete a year from now.

Since 2003, Easley has been dean and professor for the College of Health and Social Welfare, an integral part of UAA’s academic community. The College comprises the School of Nursing, the Justice Center, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Health Sciences, the School of Social Work, the Center for Human Development and other research and academic entities. The CHSW offers a variety of certificate, undergraduate, and graduate degree options. Professional programs housed within the CHSW share a common interest in issues that impact the development, health and well being of Alaska’s peoples and communities.

Congratulations to Dean Cheryl Easley on this incredible achievement! For more information on the College of Health and Social Welfare visit http://chsw.uaa.alaska.edu/. To learn more about the American Public Health Association visit http://www.apha.org/.

  96     November 9, 2007 - 11:10am | kathyday

Rasmuson Announces Sabbatical Program Awards

2008 Rasmuson Sabbaticals Awarded to Dedicated Nonprofit Leaders

Anchorage - Five outstanding nonprofit leaders will receive an extended paid leave in recognition of their excellent service to Alaskans. The Rasmuson Foundation Sabbatical Program is designed to provide time away from the office for chief executive officers of health and human service organizations in Alaska. The sabbatical is to be used for personal growth and renewal.

"These nonprofit executives work long hours in stressful environments. Because of this, Alaska is at risk of losing these talented nonprofit leaders," commented Diane Kaplan, President of the Rasmuson Foundation. "Sabbaticals offer a chance to relax, to plan for the future of their organization, to spend quality time with loved ones."

The awardees are:

• Gloria O'Neill, President & CEO, Cook Inlet Tribal Council, Anchorage
• Cheri Smith, Executive Director, LeeShore Center, Kenai
• Trevor Storrs, Executive Director, Alaskan AIDS Assistance Association, Anchorage
• Linda Swarner, Executive Director, Kenai Peninsula Food Bank, Kenai
• Candace Winkler, Chief Executive Officer, Child Care Connection, Anchorage

Gloria O'Neill, President and CEO of Cook Inlet Tribal Council for 10 years, will use the sabbatical to rejuvenate. "I am at a critical time in cultivating my perspectives on what my work means – not only to me but the thousands of Alaska Natives and American Indians whose lives are directly impacted by Cook Inlet Tribal Council." Under O'Neill's guidance, the organization's annual budget has grown from $8.8 million to nearly $40 million. With a staff of nearly 300 employees, CITC offers a variety of social services under five main divisions: Child and Family Services, Community Shared Services, Educational Services System, Employment and Training Services, and Recovery Services.

Cheri Smith, Executive Director of The LeeShore Center in Kenai, has worked at the organization for 14 years. She is using her sabbatical to take a break. "Working in a nonprofit victim service agency is challenging; the pace is fast, the work load heavy and the demands are never ending," said Cheri. The LeeShore Center provides 24-hour emergency shelter to women and children victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Center serves Kenai and Soldotna as well as communities in the surrounding 620 square mile rural area.

Trevor Storrs, Executive Director of Alaskan AIDS Assistance Association (the Four A's), intends to use the sabbatical as an intermission to ready for another 20 years in a nonprofit leadership role. "To reach the finish line, I need to ensure I can maintain the stamina for another two decades," said Trevor. In his first 20 years in the human services field, Storrs was a volunteer, direct service provider, board member and executive manager. The Four A's is located in Anchorage and started as an all volunteer agency in 1985. The Four A's provides direct services for individuals statewide living with HIV/AIDS including medical, medications, counseling, and housing services and prevention in eliminating the transmission of HIV and its stigma.

Linda Swarner is the Executive Director of Kenai Peninsula Food Bank (KPFB) as well as a Council Member and Vice Mayor of the City of Kenai. With so much on her plate, Linda remains motivated to continue providing Food Bank services because it meets a community need. KPFB processes over one million pounds of food a year. Along with operating a soup kitchen, KPFB provides food assistance throughout the entire Kenai Peninsula from Homer to Moose Pass and across Cook Inlet to Tyonek. Linda intends to use her sabbatical to rejuvenate and travel overseas to gain cultural knowledge and new perspectives on meeting hunger issues nationally.

Candace Winkler is the Chief Executive Officer of Child Care Connection (CCC), a nonprofit that supports families with young children. Candace, herself, has one-year old twins. "I will be more effective in my role as agency leader and community collaborator with the occasion to step back and reflect on all of the exciting changes, opportunities and connections that I have been a part of," said Candace. CCC is located in Anchorage and works with families, early care and education professionals, and the community to increase the availability, affordability, and quality of early care and education services. CCC also conducts presentations to local businesses, tribal organizations, state and local government agencies, and other community entities about the connection between quality child care, employee productivity, and children's success in school.

Details on the Sabbatical Program, guidelines for preparing a proposal and application materials are available here or by calling (907) 297-2700 or the toll free number (within Alaska) 1-877-366-2700.

About the Foundation

The Rasmuson Foundation was created in May 1955 by Jenny Rasmuson to honor her late husband "E.A." Rasmuson. The Foundation is a catalyst to promote a better life for all Alaskans.

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  95     November 9, 2007 - 11:07am | kathyday

Rasmuson Announces Tier 1 Grants

$400,199 in Small Grants Awarded to 21 Alaskan Organizations

Anchorage - From July through September, the Rasmuson Foundation awarded $400,199 in small grants to nonprofits across the state. "These small grants have a big impact on organizations that work in the heart of Alaskan communities," commented President Diane Kaplan. "The Foundation is proud to provide resources that allow these grassroots organizations to fulfill their missions."

Threshold Services in Kodiak received $23,767 for equipment to start-up the city's only document shredding service providing job training for people with disabilities. The project will extend the life of the existing landfill, an important concern of this island community. Threshold Services has served the community of Kodiak since January 1989 by providing work programs for clients referred by local agencies, such as Kodiak Mental Health, the State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Kodiak Area Native Association.

Catholic Community Services in Juneau received $25,000 in matching funds for four vehicles to provide transportation services for seniors and persons with disabilities living in Haines, Juneau, Kake, and Ketchikan. The program is called Southeast Senior Services (SESS) and it provides a wide array of home and community-based services that assist older Alaskans in maintaining their health, safety, and independent living.

Fairbanks Native Association (FNA) in Fairbanks received $13,093 for the replacement of the fire alert system in the Ralph Purdue Center, the only treatment facility in Fairbanks providing the combination of medically-monitored detoxification services and substance abuse treatment. The antiquated alarm system needs to be completely replaced and if not replaced, the building will have to close. Since 1970, FNA has provided substance abuse prevention, intervention, and treatment through the Ralph Purdue Center. In 2006, the Center served over 50 people through residential treatment programs with an average stay of five to six months, and 79 through outpatient treatment programs. The Women and Children's Center for Inner Healing (WCCIH) receive referrals statewide and is the only Alaska Native/American Indian substance treatment facility for adult women and their children (up to 9 years old) serving the Interior and Northern Alaska communities.

Anchorage Community YMCA received $25,000 for improvements to Janice Flood Sport Park. The Park serves youth soccer, t-ball, and flag football programs for 360 youth ages 3-12. YMCA plans to expand the program to 13-15 year-olds, but need additional field space.

Inupiat Community of the Arctic Slope (ICAS) in Barrow received $25,000 for a wheelchair-accessible van for disabled clients in the Vocational Rehabilitation Program. Transportation is a critical element for successful employment and ICAS provides this service to Program participants. The current van has been heavily used for 10 years and is in need of replacement.

Youth Advocates of Sitka (YAS) received $20,952 for furnishings for the Hanson House, a residential behavioral health facility for youth. The new furniture will help establish a comfortable atmosphere that is respectful of the youth residents. YAS served over 150 youth and families through residential, school-based, and community-based programs.

Other awards are:

• Alternatives Community Mental Health Center in Anchorage received $25,000 for replacement of an oven hood in the kitchen of the Little Steps therapeutic preschool.

• Anchorage Opera Company received $20,184 for upgrading costumes and shop equipment to increase set-building capacity.

• Bunnell Street Gallery in Homer received $4,537 for office equipment upgrades and exterior storage.

• City of Ketchikan – Ketchikan Public Library received $25,000 for a cargo van for outreach library services for homebound and institutionalized library patrons.

• City of Manokotak received $25,000 in matching funds to purchase and ship a front-end loader for community projects.

• Food Bank of Alaska in Anchorage received $20,000 to augment the award pool for Alaska Food Coalition mini-grants.

• Matanuska-Susitna Borough – Sutton Public Library received $4,400 to upgrade its multimedia collection and equipment.

• Native Village of Brevig Mission received $2,800 for the construction of a community playground near the Kawerak Head Start building.

• Native Village of Tanana received $20,000 to replace a boiler in the assisted-living elders' residence.

• Nenana Tortella Council on Aging received $9,000 for a handicap-accessible passenger van.

• Senior Citizens of Kodiak received a $25,000 top-off grant for the construction of a solarium for the long-term care nursing home.

• South Peninsula Haven House in Homer received $15,536 to install a fire/security alarm and upgrade the phone system.

• Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment in Copper Center received $25,000 for a 15-passenger van for educational programs.

• Wrangell Mountains Center received $20,930 for electrical, fire, health and safety improvements for their main facility located in McCarthy.

A list of these funded projects is attached below. All 2007 Tier 1 awards can be viewed here.

About the Foundation

The Rasmuson Foundation was created in May 1955 by Jenny Rasmuson to honor her late husband "E.A." Rasmuson. The Foundation is a catalyst to promote a better life for all Alaskans.

  94     November 6, 2007 - 10:03am | postishek

Alaska National Teenager Scholarship Organization Applications

The 38th annual Alaska National Teenager Scholarship Pageant is accepting applications for Preteen (ages 9-12 on 8-1-08), Jr Teenager (ages 13-15 on 8-1-08), Sr Teenager (ages 16-18 on 8-1-08), & Miss (ages 19-25 on 8-1-08) to be held April 11-12, 2008 at Wendy Williamson Auditorium at UAA. This program recognizes young women for their academic achievement, community involvement, leadership ability and communication skills. College scholarships are awarded to Jr & Sr Teenager divisions.

America’s National Teenager Scholarship Organization was founded in 1971 to recognize outstanding young women and help them reach their educational goals. This pageant system has awarded more than $120 million in tuition, grants, and cash scholarships in its 38 year existence.
Scoring: School 15%, Activities 15%, Interview 30%, Evening Gown 15%, Personal Expression 15%, & On stage Question 10%.
Fees: $25 application, $395 sponsorship, $50 production outfit. Optional Competitions – Talent, Speech, Photo & Portfolio $25, Super Model $50.

The reigning Alaska Preteen, Morgan Morfe, is the 12 year old daughter of Erwin & Catherine Morfe and attends Teeland Middle School in Wasilla, Alaska Jr Teenager, Angelina Klapperich, is the 13 year old daughter of Linda Jo Klapperich and is in the 8th grade at Palmer Middle School, and Alaska Sr Teenager, Kaela Larson, is the 17 year old daughter of Link & Kelly Larson. Kaela is concurrently attending the American Musical & Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles and taking a full course load through UAF Distance Ed. She is using her 4 year tuition waiver she earned though Alaska National Teenager.

Apply early to allow adequate preparation time. Selection is limited and application deadline is December 1, 2007. For additional information contact: Nancy Postishek, State Director 907.376.2678 nanc@mtaonline.net www.nationalteen.com Optional seminars/private training are available in Wasilla.

Scholarships:
UAA - 4 year waiver for Senior Titleholder

ECKERD COLLEGE, A college of distinction in Florida, awards a $10,000 tuition scholarship in each state to the upper-class student Citizenship Winner and to the 2 under-class student Citizenship Winners. Each will be considered for one of 15 regional tuition scholarships in the amount of $16,000 each and 2 National Awards of $24,000 each; The Citizenship Awards are based on scholastic achievement, leadership and volunteerism.

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY, the "prestige" music school of the southwest, which offers a variety of degree programs, awards each state senior winner a 2-year tuition scholarship.

UNIVERSITY OF CHARLESTON, in Charleston West Virginia, offers the Senior Division Winner in each state a $2,000 annually renewable tuition
scholarship. They also award four $1,000 annually renewable tuition scholarships - 2 in the senior division and 2 in the junior division. Students must have an A average or above.

MILWAUKEE COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin awards the senior winner and 4 senior runner-ups half tuition, annually renewable scholarship.

  93     October 30, 2007 - 10:46am | kmacknicki

Future Farmers of America team from Homer is Alaska's best

Winners of the National FFA Environmental and Natural Resources Career Development Event were announced recently at an awards breakfast held in conjunction with the 80th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Ind. Placing second were Jessica Jones, Anna Duz, Hannah Bradley and Tyler Haas, all of Homer. This is the highest team placement for any Alaska FFA team ever.

  92     October 22, 2007 - 3:45pm | kateherring

American Lung Association of Alaska names 2007 Award Recipients

The American Lung Association of Alaska is pleased to announce its Annual Awards recipients:

The David Blackwood Award for Top Individual Fundraiser goes to Jonathan Wakem. Jon is a longtime participant of the Clean Air Challenge. Over the past two years Jon has

singlehandedly raised over $20,000 for the CAC and we honor him this evening with a well deserved award for helping make working toward our mission possible.

Youth Award for Outstanding Volunteer Work goes to Megan Escabedo for her outstanding service as a Rifted volunteer. Megan Escobedo was recruited at the 2006 Rifted event that took place at The Millennium, a local teen Club she was working at and she has been a dedicated promoter ever since.Megan was born and raised in Anchorage and will soon be leaving us to attend the Art Institute of Seattle, where she will be getting a degree in Media Arts and Animation.

The Breath of Fresh Air Award for a Corporate with Outstanding Media Contribution to Lung Health Issues goes to Megan Baldino from KTUU. Ms. Baldino is a co-anchor for the Channel 2 News “Late Edition” and a general assignment reporter. Before her promotion to “Late Edition” anchor in July 2005, she was the weekend anchor for three years at KTUU-TV.

The Breath of Fresh Air Award for an Individual with Outstanding Media Contribution to Lung Health Issues goes to Eric Myers. Mr. Myers is someone who has contributed significantly to lung health in Alaska for over 15 years. He has been a key partner in increasing tobacco taxes and fighting for clean indoor air –to protect kids from tobacco and non-smokers from secondhand smoke. Eric also helped advocate for tax dollars and Master Settlement revenue to be spent on tobacco prevention programs. Mr. Myers is being awarded the Breath of Fresh Air award for his leadership and visibility as chairman and spokesperson for the Keep Anchorage Workplaces Smokefree campaign which resulted in 72% of voters opposing repeal of the new smokefree workplaces law.

The Denali Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Organization goes to the Rasmuson Foundation. The Rasmuson Foundation was created in May 1955 by Jenny Rasmuson to honor her late husband “E.A.” Rasmuson. The Foundation is a catalyst to promote a better life for all Alaskans. The foundation seeks to support not-for-profit organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, clarity of purpose and cautious resources. The Foundation funded The Forgotten Plague; Alaska's Fight Against Tuberculosis exhibit this past year.

The Emily Bissell Award for Outstanding Volunteer Work goes to the Honda Goldwingers, for over 15 years of service to the American Lung Association of Alaska as Clean Air Challenge volunteers. The Honda Goldwingers led by Chris Christley, have continued to show their support of the ALAA and the CAC by riding along during the trek from Houston to Talkeetna keeping the path safe by staying with trekkers all the way!

The Trudeau Award for Outstanding Contribution to Lung Health goes to Representative Kevin Meyer who has served on the Alaska State Legislature since 2001 and has co-chaired the House Finance Committee since 2005. He served as an Anchorage Assemblyman from 1993-2000. Rep. Meyer has proven to be a lung health champion through his work on asthma, tobacco and air quality issues throughout his time in public office.

Awardees were honored at the Lung Association’s Annual Reception on Wednesday, October 17th.

  91     October 19, 2007 - 1:54pm | akjesster8

UAA's Schultz to be honored at "Top 40 Under 40" luncheon

The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce and Alaska Journal of Commerce will recognize Bruce R. Schultz, University of Alaska Anchorage Dean of Students, at the “Top Forty Under 40” luncheon on November 5, at noon at the Egan Civic & Convention Center.

Alaska’s Top Forty Under 40 is a program created by the Anchorage Chamber and the Alaska Journal of Commerce to recognize the state’s top professionals younger than age 40, according to the Anchorage Chamber. Recipients are recognized for demonstrated professional excellence and a commitment to their community.

A 1990 graduate of University of Wisconsin Oshkosh with a Bachelor of Arts in International Business and German, Schultz received a Master of Arts degree in Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education from Ball State University in 1992 and is on course to receive his Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership, from the University of LaVarne in 2008. Since he joined the UAA team in 1992, he has focused his career in the support and promotion of wellness of over 15,000 university students each year. His creative talents and strong leadership have generously contributed to a cornucopia of university and community committees and programs. In the dean’s position, Schultz provides leadership for the development and delivery of programs and services involving student health and counseling, career services, campus life, student leadership, student activities, residence life and student organizations.

As well as developing and directing the delivery of comprehensive student-centered programs, services and learning opportunities, Schultz has extensive experience directing responses to campus crises. He has served as a member of the UAA Campus Response Team in responding to campus crises by evaluating response protocols; providing proactive training for university community members and coordinating critical first responder on-call services for student emergency issues. This essentially means that he has been on-call 24 hours a day for the past 15 years to ensure an effective and caring response is provided to all students at UAA in any moment of need.

Some highlights of Schultz’s accomplishments include: He increased the number of registered voters (1,500) throughout Alaska by organizing the “UAA Votes” campaign. He raised $4,130 for the Alaska Chapter of the American Red Cross 80/20 fund by developing a collaborative “UAA Responds” campaign to support Hurricane Relief Efforts. He established, through a personal donation, the Alaska Native Visiting Elders and Elders in Residence fund. He created “Safety Awareness Month” raising personal safety awareness on campus. He co-authored the “Healthy Lifestyles Initiative” U.S. Department of Education Grant. Also, he reduced alcohol violations on campus 40 percent over the last five years through community involvement, proactive education and increased allocation of resources to support the counseling and treatment needs of students. This short list is just the tip of the iceberg of Schultz’s positive contributions to the campus community.

In a word, Schultz describes himself as creative, others see him as visionary. A man who likes to work as hard as he plays, he is nothing if not an outstanding individual UAA is proud to have on their team. Schultz has been a recipient of the UAA Student Services Employee Award and the UAA Alumni Award for Staff Excellence. He was on the Residence Life team when it was awarded the UAA Chancellor’s Award for Excellence. Schultz co-authored a proposal on UAA’s Camai-I Room and the Alaska Native Rural Outreach program that received national recognition in 2007 as a best practice in the field of university student services. His clear vision and constant dedication to being a Student Affairs professional leave no wonder at how he has added another accolade to his expansive resume as one of Alaska’s “Top Forty under 40.”

We are very proud to call Bruce Schultz one of our own and send heartfelt congratulations out to him for this impressive new recognition he is receiving in the community! For more information about this award or to get a seat at the luncheon call (907) 677-7110 or go online to www.anchoragechamber.org.

  90     October 18, 2007 - 1:21pm | jordo

Koniag Development Corp. promotes Todd Allen to VP of HR

ANCHORAGE – Koniag Development Corporation (KDC) is pleased to announce the recent promotion of Todd Allen to Vice President Human Resources & Service Center Operations. Mr. Allen has more than 30 years experience specializing in core human resource programs common to all industries and employee levels, and most recently served as HR Director in KDC’s Chantilly, Virginia, office.

“We are pleased to have a human resources professional like Todd on the KDC leadership team,” said KDC President and CEO Tom Panamaroff. “We are always proud to recognize our employees’ contributions, and in this case as we offer a new role for Todd we also provide the KDC human resources and service center division top quality leadership.”

Mr. Allen became a key member of the KDC team in June 2006 when he was brought on as Human Resource Director. Previous to his hire at KDC, Allen played an integral part in the design and implementation of organizational change programs within many Alaska organizations such as United Way of Anchorage, the Foraker Group, the Alaska SeaLife Center, Mapco, and BP Exploration (Alaska), Inc.

Mr. Allen maintains two professional human resources certifications – a Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), and a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). He has also written articles for publication on a national and local level, which involve a variety of topics within the human resource discipline. For several years, Todd has been a speaker at the SHRM national conference.

Koniag Development Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Koniag, Inc., is one of 13 regional Alaska Native corporations established under the terms of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. KDC operates as Koniag’s business arm and manages most of the business operations and real estate holdings. For more information contact KDC at (907) 261-4040.

###

  89     October 15, 2007 - 11:21am | cbarnes

McCool Carlson Green and ASD Garner 2007 DesignShare Award

McCool Carlson Green Architects and the Anchorage School District received the 2007 DesignShare Merit Award for the design of Polaris K-12 School. The DesignShare awards program is the world’s most widely recognized program focusing on the design of innovative learning environments.

Transformed from an old movie theater this high-energy K-12 educational environment is designed with an emphasis on self-directed learning and active education. The addition/renovation project supports the school philosophy of cross-grade learning, student-to-student mentorship and community engagement within a socially related learning context. Celebrating the school culture the renovated facility encourages students to literally paint the walls, creating an evolving expression of the individual and collective values of the community. Polaris is an alternative school for students in kindergarten through senior high. It was completed in August 2005 at 75,000 sq ft with a capacity of 500.

The DesignShare Awards program focuses on how the built or natural environment provides rich learning opportunities. Since 2000, the program has been doing this by challenging traditional standards and committing to learner-centered, cost-efficient and sustainable learning environments. It has documented hundreds of innovative school designs from 20 countries.

McCool Carlson Green and ASD have also been awarded the Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI) 2006 Len Mackler Award, Alaska, for the design of Polaris K-12.

  88     October 9, 2007 - 9:35am | kmacknicki

Anchorage childcare provider to be honored in Washington, D.C.

Anchorage resident Khurshid Ferozepurwalla will be among 18 childcare providers honored in Washington, D.C., at the The First National Child Care Providers Awards Ceremony Oct. 10. Khurshid is being recognized for her commitment to providing quality childcare and has been featured as one of the Childcare Providers of the Week, on the award winning series "A Place of Our Own" and "Los Ninos en Su Casa."
Khurshid Ferozepurwalla was born in Iran, but raised in Pakistan. When her husband accepted a job in Anchorage, the entire family moved to Alaska. A love of kids and a desire to stay home with her own children is what motivated Khurshid Ferozepurwalla to open up a home-based childcare business in 1993. Now, 14 years later, her business is still going strong. Parents say Khurshid has made a lasting impression on the children in her care and in the community.

  87     October 8, 2007 - 10:40am | LindaBustamante

Mort Plumb Elected to ACI-NA 2008 Board of Directors

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport’s Morton V. Plumb, Jr. Elected to ACI-NA 2008 Board of Directors
Kansas City, MO (October 3, 2007) — At its General Membership Business meeting today during the ACI-NA 16th Annual Conference and Exhibition in Kansas City, MO., Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) announced the election of its 2008 officers and new members of its Board of Directors. Morton V. Plumb, Jr., Airport Director, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport; was elected to serve on the Board beginning January 1, 2008.
“I look forward to working closely with Mort and the other elected Board members in 2008. I am confident that their combined experience and talents will prove invaluable to ACI-NA and the airport industry in the upcoming year as we embrace new challenges and opportunities,” said Greg Principato, ACI-NA president. “Along with our continuing Board members, Mort and the others elected to the Board of Directors are an integral part of ACI-NA and we are fortunate to have them representing airport interests.”
In addition, three other airport leaders were elected to new, three-year terms as members of the Board. Newly elected Directors include: Mark VanLoh, Director of Aviation, Kansas City Aviation Department; David. N. Edwards, Jr., Asheville Regional Airport Authority; and Mark Reis, Managing Director, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. In addition, Nuria I. Fernandez, Chief Executive Officer, City of Chicago, Department of Aviation, was elected to a special two-year term. Reginald K. Milley, President and CEO, Edmonton Regional Airports Authority, was re-appointed to the Board for a three-year term after serving a partial term of service.

  86     October 3, 2007 - 12:16pm | akjesster8

UAA music instructor Craig Coray publishes book on Dena'ina song

Craig Coray, an adjunct instructor who teaches music theory and Native music at UAA, is the author of a new book on Dena’ina songs that has just been
published by Kijik Corporation in conjunction with the National Park Service.

The book includes a CD of a historic recording made in 1954 by his father, John Coray, who was a schoolteacher in the village of Nondalton in Southwest Alaska. John Coray died only a few years after making the tape and never realized its importance. It has since been identified as the first recording ever made of Dena’ina song and speech. It includes some very rare songs associated with old rituals and features five languages: Dena’ina, Yup’ik, Inupiaq, Slavonic Russian, and a rare dialect of Upper Kuskokwim Deg Hit’an spoken only by a few people in the Stony River area. The title of the book is “Dnaghelt’ana Qut’ana K’eli Ahdelyax:¬ ‘They Sing the Songs of Many Peoples.’”

With the aid of linguist James Kari and several native elders, nearly all the songs have been translated. Coray has annotated the songs and written several musical transcriptions. The book also features historic photographs of the singers along with a map and list of place names. The book is not for sale but will be distributed in inland Dena’ina communities where hopefully it will help revive the language and the
song/dance tradition. Along with a linguist and two anthropologists from the Lake Clark National Park cultural resources staff (one of whom is Dena’ina), Coray recently toured the communities of Lime Village, Pedro Bay, Newhalen, and Port Alsworth, where he gave presentations and distributed the book, urging these communities to maintain their song traditions. There was a final presentation and celebratory feast at Nondalton on
September 28.

Craig Coray can be reached at (907) 338-8278 or chigmit@acsalaska.net.
For more information call (907) 786-1575.

  85     September 28, 2007 - 8:49am | lewiso

CREDIT UNION 1 WINS LOCAL AWARDS

Anchorage, AK – September 27, 2007 – Credit Union 1 took home “Distinguished Community Service by a Business” honors at the Anchorage Chamber Gold Pan Awards. The credit union was recognized for its more than 50 community service projects it undertakes per year. Most notable was its “Adopt a Platoon” effort. “This was one of my proudest moments in 24 years of being Credit Union 1’s CEO” said Leslie Ellis. “Community service is at the heart of the organization and it’s nice for the members and staff to be recognized for all their effort and dedication.”

Credit Union 1’s Eagle River branch was also recognized by Chugiak-Eagle River’s Chamber of Commerce last week with an award for “Best Overall Landscaping 2007.” “This recognition is appreciated as we spend considerable time and expense to ensure the exteriors of our branches look great, and represent Credit Union 1 in a professional manner to the public” said Eagle River’s branch manager, Amy Stanard.

Credit Union 1 is Alaska's second largest financial cooperative, with a mission to help members achieve their financial goals by focusing on excellent service and value. Founded 55 years ago, Credit Union 1 has 13 branches, and over 50,000 members and $500 million in assets. Anyone who lives or works in Alaska is eligible to join Credit Union 1.

  84     September 25, 2007 - 8:13am | akjesster8

UAA's Dr. Jocelyn Krebs awarded $225,000

UAA biology professor, Dr. Jocelyn Krebs, was recently awarded a $225,000 three-year research grant titled, “Role of the Williams Syndrome Transcription Factor (WSTF) in Xenopus neural development.” The award will provide supplies and salaries to support student research in Krebs’ lab.

The award was given by the Whitehall Foundation, a non-profit corporation focused on assisting basic research in vertebrate (excluding clinical) and invertebrate neurobiology in the United States. Krebs’ research is also supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Patients with Williams Syndrome have characteristic “elfin” features, overly social personalities, learning deficits and visual/spatial impairments. These patients are missing a group of genes, one of which is WSTF. To study the normal role of WSTF in development, Krebs and her team use the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, as a model in which to study WSTF since the frog gene is very similar to the human gene. The embryonic frogs are deprived of WSTF as researchers observe what happens as they develop from fertilized egg to tadpole. Frogs that lack WSTF have severely impaired brain and eye development and unusual facial features.

One of the main goals of this research project is provide new insights into how reduced WSTF may contribute to the complex physical and behavioral abnormalities in Williams Syndrome patients.

For more information on this research, please contact Dr. Jocelyn Krebs at (907) 786-1556 or afjek@uaa.alaska.edu.

  83     September 21, 2007 - 11:16am | ann_marie

Weiss participates in 2007 Phi Kappa Phi’s Triennial Convention

Mary T. Weiss was among 323 delegates, observers and guests to attend the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi’s 2007 Triennial Convention in Orlando, Florida from August 9-11. Weiss has been a member of the University of Alaska Anchorage chapter of Phi Kappa Phi since 1997. Attendees of the convention listened to presentations by award winners from Phi Kappa Phi’s grant programs, shared ideas and inspiration at chapter training sessions, conducted the Society’s business and elected a new board. The Society’s mission is “To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others.”

  82     September 6, 2007 - 8:09am | bhayflick

Paul Davis Restoration's Carl Black receives certification

Contact:
Chuck Roberts
907.562.5650
croberts@pdr-usa.net

Paul Davis Restoration of Alaska employee completes industry training, certifications

Anchorage, Ak. – Chuck Roberts, Paul Davis Restoration and Remodeling of Alaska owner, announced today that company employee Carl Black has recently completed industry training and certifications.

Black completed Paul Davis Restoration training specific to his responsibilities as an associate of the firm. He also obtained certification in fire damage and Applied Structural Drying (ASD) from Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC). Black recently received certification with IICRC in water damage restoration. He completed his training and certifications at Paul Davis Restoration’s National Training Center in Jacksonville, Fl. Black has more than 20 years of experience in the construction and remodeling field.

IICRC certification is a critical qualification for property restoration professionals and designates that staff members have specialized knowledge and the ability to help property owners quickly and effectively restore property damage from disasters such as fire, flood, and windstorms.

In addition to Black’s leading responsibilities at Paul Davis Restoration, he is a local stock car racing champion and serves as a referee for Alaska’s Ultimate Fighting Championship events. Black is a member of the Shriner’s organization and volunteers to raise money for children in need. He has also bowled four perfect games.

For more information, contact Chuck Roberts at 907.562.5650 or email croberts@pdr-usa.net .

###

Paul Davis Restoration Inc. has been a leader in residential and commercial loss mitigation, reconstruction, and restoration services since 1966. As a national full-service restoration expert, Paul Davis Restoration is celebrating its 41st year in business and has more than 225 Paul Davis locations throughout North America. For more information about Paul Davis Restoration, call Ken Sussex at 904.737.2779, ext. 212 or visit the website at www.pdrestoration.com .

  81     August 19, 2007 - 3:25pm | VanGoor_Linda

Delta Kappa Gamma Alpha Chapter Awards Marie Paxson Grant

Alpha Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma International Educators Society has awarded $700 each to the following ten individuals with the Marie Paxson Grant to further their education to become educators. Jessica Wetherell is pursuing a bachelor degree in Music Education at Wartburg College. The following are currently attending UAA: Sheila Curran, Stacy Edwards, Jenessa Encelewski, Victoria Flint, Lori Grower, Heather McIntyre, Abby Petrozzi, Christine Phillips, and Tara Willis.

  80     August 16, 2007 - 10:00am | uaa_advancement

UAA researchers awarded $750,000 NSF grant to study in Arctic

The National Science Foundation (NSF) recently awarded nearly $750,000 to UAA researchers to study how Yup’ik and Chukchi communities in remote areas of western Alaska and the Russian Far East adapt to changes in the availability of subsistence salmon resources. These Arctic communities depend heavily upon salmon and other subsistence resources, and they have developed local management systems—or rules—to sustain those critical subsistence harvests.

Acute social, economic and environmental change is occurring in parts of the Arctic at an unprecedented rate and sustainability of arctic communities is critically linked to their ability to adapt to these new circumstances. The UAA researchers plan to first document existing local management systems and then use the relatively new field of experimental economics to assess how well those systems adapt in the face of change and uncertainty.

The grant was awarded by NSF’s highly competitive Human and Social Dynamics program, and it promises several important benefits. Residents of the indigenous communities will be partners in the study, providing knowledge about local resources and systems. The study, linked to the International Polar Year, could shed light on how the vastly different political and economic systems in western Alaska and the Russian Far East may affect the responses of communities that share a similar cultural and linguistic heritage. The research findings could be applied in other remote communities facing similar uncertainties due to climate change. More information about the resilience of local systems could help improve government resource management policies. Finally, Alaska’s salmon fisheries are recognized as among the best managed in the U.S. and elsewhere. To the extent that local institutions contribute to that good management, the research could offer insights for better fisheries management in other places.

The project will involve fieldwork in Yup’ik, Cup’ik and Chukchi communities as well as research in UAA’s new Experimental Economics Laboratory. It will also offer significant research opportunities for Alaska Native undergraduate students from participating communities, who will take part in fieldwork and produce reports for their communities. The principal investigators are: Lance Howe of the Department of Economics; NOAA fellow and anthropologist Colin West of the Institute of Social and Economic Research; and the Rasmuson Chair of Economics, Jim Murphy.

  79     August 13, 2007 - 1:27pm | hometown

Brian McMahon named WWAMI Science in Medicine Lecturer

Dr. Brian McMahon, affiliate professor in the Alaska WWAMI Biomedical Program, has been selected as the WWAMI Science in Medicine Lecturer for 2007-08.
This prestigious award recognizes a single WWAMI scientist from the 5-state region — Wyoming, Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho — for exemplary scientific research accomplishments in medicine.
McMahon is the Director of the Viral Hepatitis Program for the Alaska Area Native Health Service and conducts research at the CDC in Anchorage. He is concurrently a staff physician and clinical hepatologist at the Alaska Native Medical Center.
McMahon has been and continues to be an innovator generating new knowledge. He takes his work from the lab to the bedside, effectively translating basic research into practical standards that are applicable to patients. He is a master communicator who engages students and colleagues alike as he describes the intricacies and impact of hepatitis in a thorough manner, yet in a way that an educated layman can easily comprehend.
Many organizations have recognized McMahon’s achievements through the years, culminating in his election in 2005 as a Master of the American College of Physicians.
In recent years he has been responsible for significant changes in the standards for prophylaxis of hepatitis A and management and treatment of hepatitis B and C.
The WWAMI Science in Medicine Lectureship recognizes accomplished WWAMI faculty at the rank of professor whose research programs have led to recent exciting scientific discoveries. Awardees must be able to effectively communicate those innovations to demonstrate their relevance to “clinical care, the basic sciences and translational research now and in the future.”
WWAMI is Alaska’s Medical School. Alaska WWAMI students complete their first year of medical school at University of Alaska Anchorage. More than 100 clinical clerkships instruct WWAMI medical students in their third and fourth years in Alaska. Thus, Alaskans can complete three of the four years of medical school in Alaska through WWAMI.

  78     August 7, 2007 - 10:38am | kmacknicki

Anchorage Fire Fighting team is #1 in the world

AFD Firefighter Combat Challenge team currently ranked #1 in the world!

On Saturday August 4, AFD members Clay Hamilton, Dan Stevens, Erich Patrawke, and Kevin Woolsey competed in Fremont, CA in the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge. They competed against three time defending world champions Travis Air force base and the reigning number one ranked team in 2007, Team North Bay of California. During the challenge, they won the team competition and also set the fastest team time of 2007, making them the number one ranked team in the world. All team members also set new personal records.

The Challenge seeks to encourage firefighter fitness and demonstrate the profession's rigors to the public. Wearing "full bunker gear" and their Air-Pak breathing apparatus, competitors simulate the physical demands of real-life firefighting by performing a linked series of five tasks including climbing the 5-story tower, hoisting, chopping, dragging hoses and rescuing a life-sized, 175 lb. "victim" as they race against themselves, their opponent and the clock.

The AFD team will soon be competing at the U.S National Championships in Atlanta, and finishing up the season in Las Vegas at World Challenge XVI.

Results:
Dan Stevens 1:32.99 4th place overall
Clay Hamilton 1:34.67 6th place overall
Kevin Woolsey 1:38.31 9th place overall
Erich Patrawke 1:40.04 12th place overall and 1st place over 40

1st place team 4:45.97 (fastest time in the world in 2007)
1st Place open Tandem - Clay Hamilton and Dan Stevens -1:21.05 (second fastest time of 2007)
1st place over 40 Tandem- Erich Patrawke and Cliff (his partner from Seattle)
2nd place co-ed tandem- Kevin Woolsey and his partner Sandra

Visit the team website for photos:
www.akfirefighterchallenge.com

  77     July 25, 2007 - 8:51am | kmacknicki

Soldotna writer's story is included in newest Chicken Soup book

Jacqueline Michels of Soldotna wrote an original short story that has been published in the newly released Chicken Soup for the "Child’s Soul: Character Building Stories to Read with Kids Ages 5-8", the latest book in the "Chicken Soup for Soul" series.
"Pink Jelly Glasses" is the story of a girl who learns to move on after her grandfather’s death by remembering the good things.

  76     July 18, 2007 - 1:47pm | ethorpe11

Pacific Alaska Forwarders Recognized Hall of Fame

Congratulations to Pacific Alaska Forwarders for becoming a recipient of the 2007 Hall of Fame Award for their support of Special Olympics in the State of Washington. The Hall of Fame Award is presented each year to a company that best reflects the vision of Special Olympics which is to help bring all persons with intellectual disabilities into the larger society under conditions whereby they are accepted, respected and given the chance to become useful and productive citizens. Pacific Alaska Forwarders has set the example of commitment to the athletes of Special Olympics Washington. Similar to PAF, many other Alaskan companies support this great cause.

  75     June 29, 2007 - 9:21am | coistad

Local Architect Harley Hightower Receives AIA Fellowship Honor

Anchorage, Alaska (June 28, 2007) – AIA Alaska, a Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), is pleased to announce that Harley H. Hightower, FAIA, has been elevated to AIA’s prestigious “College of Fellows”, an honor awarded to select members who have made contributions of national significance to the profession. Mr. Hightower is the sixth AIA Alaska Architect to be accepted into the national-based College of Fellows. He joins Alaska Fellows: Ed Crittenden, FAIA; Tom Livingston, FAIA; Jeff Wilson, FAIA; Mike Mense, FAIA and Kenneth Maynard, FAIA.

The College of Fellows was founded in 1952 by the AIA to stimulate fellowship among architects, promote the purposes of the AIA, and advance the profession of architecture. To become a “Fellow,” a candidate must excel in one of the following categories: Design, Education, Professional Organization Leadership, Government Service or Public Service.

Mr. Hightower has had a positive effect on the profession and society through his service in numerous professional organizations, agency boards and commissions. Since 1976, he has served on the advisory board of the Architectural and Engineering Technology Department at the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA). Mr. Hightower has taught the Roofing Design section for UAA’s Northern Building Design course and co-authored the Northern Building Design manual published by the AIA Alaska Chapter. In addition to holding various other positions at the University, he assisted in creating an interest and continues in an effort to establish a School of Architecture at UAA. Within the AIA Alaska Chapter, Mr. Hightower has been largely responsible for laws that reduce construction litigation and liability insurance premiums; in addition to helping establish policies for qualifications-based A/E selection.

About The American Institute of Architects: For almost 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. The Alaska Chapter of the AIA was established in 1961.

  74     June 25, 2007 - 5:48am | bhayflick

Anchorage firefighters to compete in Seattle, July 7

Paul Davis Restoration and Remodeling of Alaska to compete in Seattle Firefighter Combat Challenge, 7/7

Anchorage, Ak. – Chuck Roberts, Paul Davis Restoration and Remodeling of Alaska Owner, has announced that he will sponsor Anchorage Fire Department firefighters during the upcoming Firefighter Combat Challenge in Seattle, Wa. on July 7. Team Paul Davis of Alaska will compete in individual and tandem events at the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge® Fire Festival 2007, beginning at 11 a.m. at South Washington & Occidental Ave. Team members include Clay Hamilton, Erich Patrawke, Dan Stevens and Kevin Woolsey. Visit the team’s website for more information at
www.akfirefighterchallenge.com .

According to Roberts, the team will compete at a variety of event locations throughout the U.S. during the 2007 season for the ultimate victory at Firefighter Combat Challenge World XVI to be held in Las Vegas, Nevada from Nov. 4 - 8. Roberts will fund the firefighters’ registration, travel costs and logistics.

“Most recently, Clay Hamilton competed in the Carlsbad, New Mexico Firefighter Combat Challenge on June 2. He finished first in the overall individual competition,” Roberts said.

“We look forward following our team’s success this year, along with all Paul Davis sponsored contenders and other firefighters competing in this rigorous event.”

Since 1991, Firefighter Combat Challenge events have been held for hundreds of U.S. and Canadian firefighters who compete at more than 25 locations in fitness events and demonstrate the profession’s rigors to the public. The competition has been dubbed “The Toughest Two Minutes in Sports” by ESPN.

On Target Challenge is the owner of Firefighter Combat Challenge®. Challenge events are viewed live by millions of people worldwide during live competitions and local broadcasts. Wearing "full bunker gear" and the SCOTT Air-Pak breathing apparatus, pairs of competitors simulate the physical demands of real-life firefighting by performing a linked series of five tasks including climbing the 5-story tower, hoisting, chopping, dragging hoses and rescuing a life-sized, 175 lb. "victim" as they race against themselves, their opponent and the clock.

For more information, contact Chuck Roberts at 907.562.5650 or email croberts@pdr-usa.net .

###

Since 2003, Paul Davis Restoration Inc. has served as a national sponsor of Firefighter Combat Challenge. The company has been a leader in residential and commercial loss mitigation, reconstruction, and restoration services since 1966. As a national full-service restoration expert, Paul Davis Restoration is celebrating its 40th year in business and has more than 220 Paul Davis locations throughout North America. For more information about Paul Davis Restoration, call Ken Sussex at 904.737.2779, ext. 212 or visit the website at www.pdrestoration.com .

On Target Challenge is the owner of Firefighter Combat Challenge®. Challenge events are viewed live by millions of people worldwide during live competitions and local broadcast. Wearing "full bunker gear" and the SCOTT Air-Pak breathing apparatus, pairs of competitors simulate the physical demands of real-life firefighting by performing a linked series of five tasks including climbing the 5-story tower, hoisting, chopping, dragging hoses and rescuing a life-sized, 175 lb. "victim" as they race against themselves, their opponent and the clock.

  73     June 23, 2007 - 3:29pm | mrsak

Soon to be Mrs. United States

Our best wishes go with Jeannine Jabaay, Mrs. Alaska United States 2007, as she competes in Las Vegas for the title of Mrs. United States on July 12th. Bring home the crown to Alaska, Jeannine!

  72     June 22, 2007 - 8:37am | kmacknicki

New officers and directors for Special Olympics Alaska

The Special Olympics Alaska Board of Directors elected officers and new members at its first quarter meeting in January. Craig Gales, Vice President of Operations at Alaska Waste was elected as board chairman for 2007. “We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated group of board members,” said Jim Balamaci, President and CEO of Special Olympics Alaska. “I’m looking forward to working with veteran and new board members as we expand opportunities for Alaskans with intellectual disabilities.”
The 2007 Special Olympics Alaska Board of Directors includes:
Officers
Chairman, Craig Gales,Alaska Waste
Chairman Elect, Ken Privratsky, Horizon Lines
Secretary, John Walsh, J.M. Walsh Company, Inc.
Treasurer, Robert Warthen, Alaska USA Credit Union
Past Chairman, Charlie Kozak, KPMG

Directors
Mike Buller, Alaska Housing Finance Corporation
Diana Carlson, ICRC/Koniag
Jeff Evans, Tesoro Petroleum
Michael Flanigan*, New York Life
Sarah Foster, Fred Meyer (Special Olympics Alaska Athlete)
Gideon Garcia*, Holland America Tours/Gray Line of Alaska
Representative, John Harris*, Alaska Legislature, House of Representatives
Paul Landes, GCI
Michael Liebing, OTIS Elevator
Senator Lesil McGuire*, Alaska Legislature, Senate
Dr. Charles Michael*, Charles Michael, DDS
Daniel Mitchell*, KPMG
Mike Mulcahy, Safeway (Special Olympics Alaska Athlete)
John Murry, ConocoPhillips
Roberta Quintavell, ASRC
Gregory Razo*, CIRI
Kurtis Schmidt*, Wells Fargo
Terry Vrabec*, State of Alaska, Department of Public Safety

Ex-Officio Member
Colonel James Harrold*, 3rd Mission Support Group, Elmendorf Air Force Base

*These members joined the board in 2007.
Special Olympics Alaska is an accredited program of Special Olympics Inc., a global organization that has provided sports training and competition to people with intellectual disabilities since 1968. In Alaska, Special Olympics serves more than 1,500 athletes in 18 communities statewide through local community training programs.

  71     June 18, 2007 - 3:09pm | hometown

Mayor appoints Veteran’s Memorial Design Task Force

Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich has appointed an eight-member task force to set guidelines and design improvements to the Anchorage Veteran’s Memorial on the Delaney Park Strip. This diverse group reflects a variety of community interests in the park and the existing memorial.
During the April 2007 Municipal Election, voters approved a Parks and Recreation bond containing $200,000 for improvements to the existing memorial. The task force will be charged with directing the use of the bond funds and defining the guidelines for any future changes to the memorial that would be paid for with private funds.
“We want to make sure that any improvements or expansion of the Veteran’s Memorial are done in a deliberative, dignified way,” Mayor Begich said. “There are many Veteran’s groups in Anchorage and we want to make sure all voices are heard.”
Over the course of its deliberations for a Delaney Park master plan, the Citizens’ Advisory Group has identified a number of core values for the park, including maintaining its current emphasis on open, multi-use space and maintaining consistency in the acceptance and placement of public memorials in the limited space the park offers. The work of the Task Force will be consistent with these principals and be incorporated in the final park master plan.
While the memorial and Delaney Park master plan have been the subject of several public meetings to date, the Task Force will provide an opportunity for further public comment.
Members of the task force include:
Tim Benintendi, Vietnam Veteran
Tom Case, Dean, UAA School of Business
Larry Cash, RIM Architects
Lanie Fleischer, Friends of Delaney Park
Sharon Long, Mother of LCPL Grant Frazer
Tom Morgan, MOA Military and Veterans Affairs Commission
Kathleen Plunkett, MOA Parks and Recreation Commission
Herbert Turner, retired USAF
The group will hold its first meeting before the end of June and is expected to have its recommendations finished by this fall.

  70     June 18, 2007 - 2:44pm | hometown

Mayor appoints Veteran’s Memorial Design Task Force

Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich has appointed an eight-member task force to set guidelines and design improvements to the Anchorage Veteran’s Memorial on the Delaney Park Strip. This diverse group reflects a variety of community interests in the park and the existing memorial.
During the April 2007 Municipal Election, voters approved a Parks and Recreation bond containing $200,000 for improvements to the existing memorial. The task force will be charged with directing the use of the bond funds and defining the guidelines for any future changes to the memorial that would be paid for with private funds.
“We want to make sure that any improvements or expansion of the Veteran’s Memorial are done in a deliberative, dignified way,” Mayor Begich said. “There are many Veteran’s groups in Anchorage and we want to make sure all voices are heard.”
Over the course of its deliberations for a Delaney Park master plan, the Citizens’ Advisory Group has identified a number of core values for the park, including maintaining its current emphasis on open, multi-use space and maintaining consistency in the acceptance and placement of public memorials in the limited space the park offers. The work of the Task Force will be consistent with these principals and be incorporated in the final park master plan.
While the memorial and Delaney Park master plan have been the subject of several public meetings to date, the Task Force will provide an opportunity for further public comment.
Members of the task force include:
Tim Benintendi, Vietnam Veteran
Tom Case, Dean, UAA School of Business
Larry Cash, RIM Architects
Lanie Fleischer, Friends of Delaney Park
Sharon Long, Mother of LCPL Grant Frazer
Tom Morgan, MOA Military and Veterans Affairs Commission
Kathleen Plunkett, MOA Parks and Recreation Commission
Herbert Turner, retired USAF
The group will hold its first meeting before the end of June and is expected to have its recommendations finished by this fall.

  69     June 18, 2007 - 2:34pm | hometown

Alaskans selected in world-wide film director competition

The competition is fierce, the odds of being accepted slim. For the past five years, SHOOT magazine has held their world-wide New Directors Search, sifting through over 400 hopefuls to find, as they put it, "the best up-and-coming directors who show promise to soon make major
positive contributions to advertising and/or entertainment in its traditional and emerging forms."
This year was no different. From the hundreds of entries only twenty-seven were chosen to be featured at SHOOT’s annual New Directors Showcase (NDS), hosted May 23rd at the Directors Guild of America in New York City.
What made this year’s gala unique, however, was the fact that three of the directors chosen hail from the 49th State. In addition, each director has roots in one of each of Alaska’s three largest cities. Their projects cover a unique spectrum, ranging from jaw-dropping visual-effects to innovative political satire to a dark documentary shedding light on a decades-old family secret. The directors are:
Ben Grossmann (Fairbanks) – After cutting his teeth directing commercials for KFXF Fox 7 in his hometown of Fairbanks, Ben relocated to Los Angeles to work on features and commercials. His Visual Effects efforts won him an Emmy in 2006. Ben is currently Creative Director for The Syndicate, a digital production and VFX company. With a background in features, commercials, and mind-bending visual effects wizardry, Ben's two commercials for Six Flags Amusement Parks (one which was featured at the NDS) transform everyday locations into an over-the-top theme park. His commercials are currently airing across the US, Canada and Mexico.
Jeff Morgan (Juneau) – Before becoming a filmmaker, Jeff was a member of The Juneau Jumpers, the world champion Alaska jump roping team. He made fifteen short films before completing high school and with financial assistance from his Native American tribe, the Fallon Paiute, graduated from NYU film school in 1999. Jeff’s feature directorial debut, "Lillie & Leander: A Legacy of Violence," is a documentary which uncovers a series of hidden, racially-motivated mass murders in
the early 1900s. The film earned him a place in the NDS spotlight, as well as a slot at the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival. Jeff is also a producer at Deutsch Advertising in New York.
Sean Morris (Anchorage) – Sean started out making shorts in Alaska with perhaps the first consumer video camera in the state, borrowed from Alaskan television pioneer Augie Hiebert. He has done extensive commercial and music video work, with his projects finding a home on MTV, BET, HBO, MTV Latin America and others. His work featured at the NDS was a commercial for the company NOTAR in Stockholm, Sweden. A political satire, the spot skewers the current U.S. administration while humorously exploring American stereotypes.
For more information on SHOOT or the New Directors Showcase, visit http://www.shootonline.com.

  68     June 12, 2007 - 7:25am | uaa_advancement

UAA Alumni Association announces new board members

In an effort to better serve the needs and interests of the University of Alaska Anchorage and its alumni, the UAA Alumni Association Board of Directors has recently expanded its board from eight to 15 members.

The UAA Alumni Association is excited to announce its new and returning board members. The association sought out nominations from UAA alumni from across the state, the nation and the north that could represent its cultural, geographic and professionally diverse alumni base while serving the betterment of the University of Alaska Anchorage. UAA and its alumni are experiencing increased recognition at the local, state and national level and alumni activity has increased across the globe.

The following representatives will be officially adopted into office by the association’s current Board of Directors during a June meeting and will begin their terms of service beginning July 1, 2007.

• MaryAnn Hanson, Anchorage – (current board member – will be serving a second 3-year term, expiring in 2010)
• Vanessa Norman, Anchorage – 3-year term (expiring in 2010)
• Skye Rubadeau McRoberts, Anchorage – 3-year term (expiring in 2010)
• Hilary Currey, Wasilla – 3-year term (expiring in 2009)
• Jeffery Roe, Anchorage – 3-year term (expiring in 2010)
• Karla Beller, Chugiak – 2-year term (expiring in 2009)
• Robert Hagmaier, Lake Oswego, Oregon – 2-year term (expiring in 2010)
• George Skladal, Anchorage – 2-year term (expiring in 2009)

For any reason these elected alumni representatives are unable to accept this nomination to serve, seats will be filled in the following order:

• B. Randall Bohall
• Kevin McCaffrey
• Ryan Warren

For detailed profiles and photos of each elected board member, visit http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/alumni/elections.cfm. For additional information contact Stacey Marsh at 907-786-1941 or anslm3@uaa.alaska.edu.

  67     June 11, 2007 - 7:57am | ccrinehart

Teens Attend National Pilgrim Fellowship

Tabbitha Cobb, Greg Jones, and Evan Walker will go to Purdue University in late June for the yearly gathering of the National Association of Pilgrim Fellowships (NAPF). Representing Anchorage's First Congregational Church, they will be accompanied by their youth director, Scott Kniefel.
They will spend four days with other teens from across the nation in worship and self-discovery.

  66     June 11, 2007 - 7:51am | ccrinehart

Congregationalists Headed for Annual Meeting

Four members of First Congregational Church, 2610 E. Northern Lights Blvd., will attend the annual meeting of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches in St. Petersburg, Florida, June 23-26.
Sharon Higgins will be the church's delegate. Rev. Mark Long and Ellen Sutphin are alternates, and Claudia Kniefel will also attend as a member of the executive committee.

Church phone 272-8363
This item from Carolyn Rinehart, 345-3961

  65     May 31, 2007 - 3:28pm | kmacknicki

George Benson to receive national hockey award

George Benson of Anchorage will be honored June 6 at the Sheraton Hotel in Colorado Springs, Colo., by USA Hockey. He will receive the Chet Stewart Award for his contributions to the USA Hockey Officiating Education Program. Benson began his officiating career in 1985 and since, has served as a mentor for two generations of Alaskan officials. He also served as Alaska’s evaluation coordinator of officials from 1993-2004.

  64     May 31, 2007 - 8:38am | kmacknicki

Peninsula Cowboy Round-Up Family Rodeo results

Following are the results of the Peninsula Cowboy Round-Up Family Rodeo held May 26-27, our first rodeo in a series of five. This one was sponsored by the Soldotna Equestrian Association at Soldotna Arena.
What an amazing turnout of cowboys and cowgirls, a total of 84 entries from all over the Alaska.
SEA would like to thank all of its families and volunteers who made this first rodeo a huge success. Hope to see everyone at the next rodeo, June 9-10 at Soldotna Arena.

0-10 Barrels
1st - Teresa Bitterich
2nd –Madison Orth
3rd-Brayden Holly
4th- Jesse Rogde

11-16 Barrels
1st-Shelby Rogde
2nd- Cheyenne Blazka
3rd- Kassie Ferganchik
4th- Shelby Loop

17 & Up Barrels
1st-Mellissa Fowler
2nd- Shana Wilson
3rd- Becky Dragseth
4th-Katie Schollenberg

0-10 Poles
1st-Teresa Bitterich
2nd-Jesse Rogde
3rd- Madison Orth
4th-Brayden Holly

11-16 Poles
1st-Shelby Rogde
2nd-Cassy Dobson
3rd-Maya Johnson
4th-Bill Ashwell

17 & Up Poles
1st-Chelsey Hackett
2nd-Katie Schollenberg
3rd-Ciarra Mckenzie
4th- Beth Fowler

Breakaway Roping
1st-Callie Willis
2nd-Lisa Barnes
3rd-Jan Feller

Double Mugging
1st-Garrett Willis & Jake Lowry
2nd-Tom Blazka & Rob Patten
3rd-Bobby Moriarty & Justin Rainwater
4th-Scooter Hackett & Kenny Hackett

Ribbon Roping
1st-Callie & Garrett Willis
2nd-Charlie Willis & Mellissa Fowler
3rd-Jake Lowry & Miranda Hampton

Steer Daubing
1st-Kassie Ferganchik
2nd-Shelby Loop
3rd-Maya Johnson

Team Roping
1st-Jake Lowry & Mike Blore
2nd-Callie Willis & Justin Rainwater
3rd- Tom Blazka & Steve Cook
4th-Garrett Willis & Tom Blazka

Calf Riding
1st-Brayden Holly

Bull Riding
1st-Colten Jensen

Submitted by:
Beth Fowler
SEA Board Member
PO Box 683
Kasilof, AK 99610

  63     May 30, 2007 - 10:48am | dinagruey

Anchorage Drivers Earn Honors at Truck Driving Championship

Two drivers representing FedEx placed among the winners at the 2007 Alaska Truck Driving Championship in Palmer on May 18-19.

-- Scott Watts, a driver for FedEx Express based in Anchorage, captured first place in the Straight Truck class for the third time in four years. Watts also earned the coveted Grand Champion honor for achieving the highest score among the winners of all classes for the second straight year.

--Doug Rickel, also an Anchorage-based driver for FedEx Express, finished second in the Straight Truck class.

“The FedEx commitment to service extends beyond delivering every shipment on time. Our entire team of drivers, couriers and contractors is also dedicated to safely sharing the road with other motorists and to keeping safety the highest priority in everything they do,” said Frederick W. Smith, chairman, president and chief executive officer, FedEx Corp. “The performance of the entire FedEx team at the Alaska championship exemplifies the superior professionalism and dedication found at FedEx.”

Watts will go on to compete at the American Trucking Associations’ 2007 National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC), known as the “Super Bowl of Safety,” which will be held Aug. 22-25 in Minneapolis. In addition, each state winner will be recognized by FedEx as part of its safe driving initiative, The Chairman’s Challenge.