Hard work, dedication and love earn spotlight for numerous Delta leaders

MARY NELSON

April 18, 2008 at 12:18PM AKST

For The Tundra Drums

Next week I will take on the daunting task of summarizing the outcome of this legislative session. Meanwhile, I’m working on funding for power cost equalization, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, new construction, roads and education.

The capital projects my office is promoting were carefully vetted and are vital to our communities – I’m hopeful Gov. Sarah Palin will not veto any of them.

The appropriate instrument for the Legislature to collectively express commendation or condolences to an individual or group is a "Legislative Citation." Following are summaries of the citations I, along with Sen. Lyman Hoffman, my fellow Bethel Democrat, had the pleasure of submitting this session:

• Bev Hoffman has always been a positive influence on the young people in her community. Bev has been tireless in her pursuit of a swimming pool for Bethel through the Bethel Lifesavers Group. Special thanks to Bev for continuing to serve her community with distinction.

• LaMont Ellsworth Albertson , teacher, principal, City Council member, Aniak mayor and director of the Kuskokwim Campus in Bethel. In 2005, LaMont was roused out of retirement from his duck blind at Pike Lake to direct the Yuut Elitnaurviat: People’s Learning Center project. LaMont is the quintessential Alaskan: he has built two family homes and continues to contribute to the innovative development of local communities, while protecting their cultural values and sustainability.

• Ayaprun Elitnaurvik Yup’ik Immersion K-6th grade Charter School in Bethel is the only charter school in the the Lower Kuskokwim School District. The school produces children proficient in both English and Yup’ik. The school’s curriculum also includes culturally relevant skills taught by elders. Visitors often comment on the school’s warm and welcoming atmosphere and the respectful behavior of students. The Legislature honors those who have contributed to the school’s excellence.

• Michelle DeWitt, executive director, Tundra Women’s Coalition has for many years demonstrated her commitment to the health and safety of the women, children and families of the Y-K Delta. Michelle has expanded and improved TWC’s programs and services, reflecting her tireless determination to help stop domestic and sexual violence. Michelle has also worked hard on planning a new TWC facility. Special thanks to Michelle and all TWC employees for their hard work, dedication and love.

• George Hohman was a remarkable man dedicated to helping rural Alaska. He spent 16 years in the Legislature fighting passionately for rural Alaska. He will be remembered for his services to the state of Alaska and his many contributions to the Bethel region.

• Guy Guy grew up in Kwethluk and worked hard to help better the lives of others. Guy worked as a substance abuse counselor and a behavioral health clinician and will be greatly remembered for the consideration he held for others and the passion he had for his career.

• Peter Atchak helped to start the Bethel Search and Rescue group in the fall of 1976. Today, the group has more than 40 active searchers. They have saved hundreds of lives, including 13 this year alone. Thanks to Peter and all those involved with Bethel Search and Rescue for their brave service.

• Jessica Klejka won the 2008 Junior Iditarod, finishing the 150-mile race in 22 hours and 47 minutes. In only her fourth attempt at the Junior Iditarod, she claimed the victory in the most competitive race in the history of the event. Kudos to Jessica for her determination and hard work in achieving such a victory.

• The Bethel Community Services Foundation has been a great asset to the Bethel community as they continue to contribute their services and programs. In 2007 alone, they gave more than $350,000 to other organizations or programs such as the Bethel Hospital and the dental health aide therapist program. We commend their dedication and commitment.

• William A. Ferguson has committed more than 40 years to improving the education of Y-K Delta students as a teacher, site administrator, assistant superintendent, and superintendent of the Lower Kuskokwim School District. He is universally admired and respected by students, teachers and staff. On June 30, Ferguson will retire. We’re proud to honor his lifetime accomplishments and contributions.

• Peter "Paniguaq" Jacob has been selected as the traditional leader of the Orutsararmiut Native Council in Bethel. Chief Jacob was also named "Elder of the Year" for 2007 by AFN. His contributions have benefited Alaska Native peoples throughout his life as a leader, an educator and a preserver of Native culture. Jacob and his wife, Lucy, have been happily married for 53 years. Congratulations to Chief Peter Jacob for his service to the people of the Y-K Delta.

State Rep. Mary Nelson is a Democrat representing District 38, which includes Bethel, in the Alaska House of Representatives.