Winter Survival Guide by Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Eric Engman/News-Miner

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

First winter in Fairbanks? Brace yourself By CHRIS FREIBERG cfreiberg@newsminer.com There’s only one definite thing a newcomer to Fairbanks can expect. “I can guarantee it’s going to get cold at some point,” said Jim Brader, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. Just how cold it will get, however, is anyone’s guess. Temperatures can swing wildly during a Fairbanks winter, reaching 40 below zero one week and hitting 40 above the next. On average, Fairbanks sees eight days per year that are 40 below or colder. The bright side, though, is that despite the bitter cold temperatures, the wind speed only averages about 2 mph. “Walking gives you more of a wind chill than the wind,” Brader said. The NWS is currently forecasting a 40 percent chance that the average tempera-

John Wagner/News-Miner

Maida Buckley, who jogs regularly with friends for the past six years, said while she may take shorter routes in harsher weather, she is willing to run at any temperature. “There is no cut-off,” Buckley said. She jogged a six-mile loop from her home during 30-below temperatures, as evidenced here by her frosty face. ture will be above normal warmer or a few days will be this winter, though whether very warm is anyone’s guess, that means every day will be Brader said.

The Interior also averages 70 inches of snowfall in the winter. Fairbanks was well below that average last year, but the service is predicting average snowfall again this year. The first thing a newcomer to Fairbanks will want is warm clothes to get through the winter. John Castes, a manager at Big Ray’s for 17 years who has been nicknamed “the boot guru,” recommends a good pair of boots above all else. Castes says that the ground can feel a lot colder than the air, but if your feet are warm, the rest of you will stay a lot warmer. “If you’re going to be outside for a long period of time, you’re going to need a warmer boot,” he said, noting that the prices of a good pair range between $50 and $150. But even if you plan on staying in a nice warm car for most of your travels this winter, there are certain things

to take into account. First of all is that if the temperature dips into single digits, it’s a good idea to plug your car in if you don’t have a heated garage to store it in. Otherwise vehicles just don’t want to start when the temperature gets below zero. Sgt. Robert Thompson of the Fairbanks police department also suggests studded tires when you hit the open road. “It’s a cheap insurance policy,” he said. Because low temperatures can hurt vehicles, it’s also a good idea to always carry a charged cell phone to call for help if you get stalled. And if you’re driving out of town far from police or tow services, it’s a good idea to keep extra blankets and warm clothing in the car. “At 40 below, cars cool down real fast,” Thompson said. Contact staff writer Chris Freiberg at 459-7545.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

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well equipped work bays and a well trained staff of mechanics The Woodway is able to service all your power equipment quickly and professionally. Borough air quality has been in the news lately and especially how it is affected by wood burners. Nathan Sapp who has been with The Woodway for ten years has been asked to volunteer with the Borough Pollution Control Commission, to stay abreast of the issues, and help ensure residents can responsibly heat their homes with renewable fuels. There is good news and much that can be done to improve air quality. Newer EPA certified woodstoves produce one tenth the amount of emissions that older non certified stoves do. As older stoves are replaced with newer stoves we will see an improvement in air quality. Proper operation of wood stoves is also key to clean burning and The Woodway is committed to helping train customers on how to best operate their stoves. Starting in October, The Woodway will be holding classes on proper operation techniques every Saturday from 9-10 AM. This will include everything from firewood quality and starting a fire, to how to know your stove or fireplace is running efficiently. The public is welcome to attend. The Woodway would like to thank Fairbanks, North Pole, and the surrounding communities for their loyalty over the last 31 years, and they look forward to maintaining that trust in the future.

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009 Eric Engman/News-Miner

Sledders take advantage of the mild temperatures and sunlight as they flock to the Beluga Field sledding hill next to the Student Recreation Center on the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Think layers when it comes to clothing By REBECCA GEORGE rgeorge@newsminer.com

winter isn’t something to be taken lightly. Until mankind can control Wearing appropriate cloth- the weather, Interior Alaskans ing while out and about this will just have to buckle down

and face the elements one layer of waterproof and well-insulated piece of clothing at a time. Whether you’re out on a snowmachine, dog mushing,

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hiking in the woods or just driving to work or the grocery store, wearing extra layers, warm boots, gloves and a hat could save your life. Here are a few general rules to follow for dressing in cold weather:

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009 Paid Advertising Content

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

How to keep the kids warm

John Wagner /News-Miner

Olivia Hampton, center, lets out a scream of excitement as she sleds down a Graehl Park slide with father, Justin, left, and brother Jordan. Justin said his children love to play at the park whether it’s a sunny, summer day or a frigid December afternoon. “They were getting a little fussy, so I said, ‘OK, get the snow clothes on, we’re gonna get some exercise,’” he said.

By MARY BETH SMETZER msmetzer@newsminer.com Hats, snowsuits, jackets, snowpants, long johns, socks, boots, mittens and scarves — Oh my! The season of multiple layers is just around the corner. Dressing kids appropriately for winter weather allows them the freedom to enjoy the outdoors safely and happily while playing outside during school recess, building a snow fort in the backyard, ice skating, snowboarding, snowshoeing or skiing. Layering is the key ingredient for keeping moisture away from the skin, insulating the body core and protecting from rain, sleet, wind and snow. There is a reason for the expression “cotton kills.” Do not use cotton layers when dressing for cold weather. Cotton doesn’t wick away moisture from the skin, but absorbs it. And cotton doesn’t hold body heat as well other fabrics such as polypropylene, wool or silk. The same advice holds for socks and mittens as well. Here are some tips to keep

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in mind: • Hats are important to retain body heat lost through the scalp and protect the ears. Soft fleece or wool hats with ear flaps are comfortable and warm. • Mittens are warmer than gloves and may be combined with underlayers for added warmth and topped off with water-resistant tops. Always change mittens when wet, and keep extras on hand. For young children, buy snap-ended elastic bands that attach to coat sleeves at one end and mittens at the other end to keep from losing them. • Coats with a water-resistant outer shell is an excellent final layer for playing in the snow and it also allows protection against the wind. • Snowpants or snowsuits are a must for Alaska children playing outdoors. For added warmth, layer underneath with clothing and thermal underwear made from polypropylene, fleece, wool or silk. • Boots that fit properly, are lined, water-resistent or Please see KIDS, Page 7

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LAYERS: Warm and dry while outside Continued from Page 4

ton long underwear is a good start. Wearing 100 percent cotton products isn’t the best idea as cotton can become wet easily and result in potential hypothermia. To stay warm and dry while outside, always be sure to cover your feet, hands, neck and head as well as the core body, arms and legs. Heat can escape the body very quickly when skin surface is exposed. Heat escapes from the head, hands and feet the quickest, so if wearing a ton of clothing isn’t your style, be sure to at least cover the essentials. Well-insulated and waterproof gloves are the best bet for keeping your hands from getting frostbitten. A hat that covers the ears is an important item to have handy as well. Experts suggest that hats should be kept on at all times in cold weather. A trustworthy pair of winter boots with good traction and insulation is important as well. Avoid buying rubber boots as they have virtually no insulation and will not protect the

ITEMS TO KEEP IN THE CAR • A pair of warm mittens, as gloves will not keep your hands warm in extreme temperatures. • A pair of snow pants or heavy, warm slacks. • A heavy scarf and/or hat that covers the ears, forehead and face • Warm boots or mukluks if you are wearing light boots or shoes • A blanket or sleeping bag

feet from freezing. Avoid wearing tight socks that constrict blood flow. Cotton socks should also be avoided as they can get wet and lead to potential frostbite in the feet. With extreme temperatures, there is always the danger of a vehicle stalling. Keeping extra, warm clothing in the car could save your life if an emergency requires you to wait for help to arrive or to walk to a safe

KIDS: Dress for the cold

location. Even a short walk can place you in potential danger of frostbite or hypothermia. Items to keep in the car: • A pair of warm mittens, as gloves will not keep your hands warm in extreme temperatures. • A pair of snow pants or heavy, warm slacks. • A heavy scarf and/or hat that covers the ears, forehead and face • Warm boots or mukluks if you are wearing light boots or shoes • A blanket or sleeping bag Winter activities such as sledding, skiing, and hiking can be a blast if your prepared for the elements. If you’re going to be outside for an extended period of time, here’s how to be prepared: • On the feet: Boots that are mid-length and well-insulated are the best bet. Finding boots with waterproof quality for wetter snow is helpful, too. Don’t forget to wear thick socks. • On the legs: Long underwear.

Continued from Page 6

and neck with an opening for the eyes and nose and are worn for protection against wind and extreme cold. • Tight clothing, outerwear or footwear should be avoided since it will restrict blood circulation. • Keep children well hydrated and fueled for outdoor play. Teach them how to dress and care for themselves in cold weather. It will add to their comfort and enable them to have a lot of fun outdoor exercise this winter.

waterproof are a necessity for Interior winters. Make certain the footbed is insulated. Wool felt liners work well for cold weather. • Socks for children are available in a variety of wool and polyester blends for winter weather. Boot socks should be higher than the top of the boot for comfort and warmth. • Scarves protect the neck and can serve as a mask to cover the face and mouth. Contact staff writer Mary Beth Balaclavas cover the head Smetzer at 459-7546.

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

John Wagner/News-Miner

Emissions billow out of the Atkinson Building power plant on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus and settles in a layer of ice fog as a plane descends through the February air. Three-year-old changes to the Clean Air Act have left Fairbanks violating standards for airborne soot, commonly called “fine particulate” air pollution. Air-quality experts say much of the pollution comes from wood-fed home heating.

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Nearly half of the money goes for heating and cooling costs. As the economic crunch continues, it’s Each year the typical American family drops become even more important for families to find more than $1,600 on home utility bills, the bulk ways to save money while conserving energy. of it wasted, according to the Department of Energy. Please see HEATING, Page 10 By DAVID MIGOYA The Denver Post

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009 Paid Advertising Content

When in the market for a new or replacement boiler, prepare by reviewing this checklist!

Take a few moments to make a list of the most important things you want to accomplish. Be sure to cover these points with your heating professional so your needs will be properly addressed. system: equately? your current 1. Review levels: do all rooms heat add consistent an er at w Comfort sufficient hot Do you have and pressure levels? re tu ra or cold spots? em too loud? tempe st unusual drafts Are there any unusual sounds? Is your sy for review. lls bi Are there any g of heatin home for heat and o tw or ar ye ur past 2. Collect uch energy do you use in yoproperly size your heating help to How m ed us be ill sw hot water?Thi an estimate of savings. system and for irements: hot water requtaken a day? ur yo t is L 3. e ads or fixtures? owers ar How many sh special high-flow shower he y Are there an tubs or spas? at? Are there hot a pool you would like to he ve ha u Do yo ncy patterns? usual occupa e only used on weekends? un y an e er 4. Are th the winter, second hom ing? home or build Away in tions to your di ad ioning it on nd an co pl heat, air 5. Do you grate radiant in the future? te in to an pl 6. Do you able energy currently or home? or renew to live in your gy do you plan ng lo optimize ener to ow s H 7. mfort area ck thermostats”? co ne zo to t ba wan et 8. Do you cy with programmable “s efficien erly design a ofessional propor building. pr g in at he a lp me This list will heating solution for your ho customized he

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

HEATING Continued from Page 8

Some methods are simple, nocost fixes while others might have a minor cost that’s easily recouped in lower bills. Here are a few worth considering. Remember to find a reputable and licensed contractor if you can’t do the job yourself.

Let the sun shine The south side is the warmest part of your house, so let the free heat in. Open blinds and drapes when it’s sunny to maximize heat retention. Close them in the evening to keep it inside. And keep the windows clean too.

Furnace Change the filter at least monthly. Avoid costly thick fil- Ice fog blankets Fairbanks as ters as they can suffocate the furnace by impeding airflow. lation R-value, which is the heat Air ducts resistance — but don’t forget to They can leak precious heat- insulate the hatch door too. ed air into uninsulated areas. Check for leaks and cover them. Chimney The flue and damper inside Avoid cloth-backed, rubber adhesive duct tape which fails the fireplace are key locations quickly. Instead, use items such of heat loss — be sure they’re as foil tape. Insulating ducts in closed tightly when not in use the basement means it will get — but so is the roof flashing next to the chimney. Be sure colder there. to seal any gaps and be careful Attic & crawlspace when working if it’s a steep You’ve heard about properly roof. insulating the attic — the insu-

Eric Engman/News-Miner

pedestrians and traffic make their way along Cushman Street in the heart of winter. sediment isn’t impeding proper heat-resistant radiator reflecoperation. Check the owner’s tors between the unit and exteThey’re wonderful sources of manual on how to do this and rior walls. natural light and heat but aging use caution, the water is likely can mean seals have worn and Fireplace scalding. leak precious warm air. Make If you must use one — they sure they are double-pane units. Water faucets are the biggest heat waster in Consider covering the opening Not only cover the spigots the house — consider a heat with plastic film. with insulated caps, but caulk exchanger blower that pushes the area around the pipe where heated air inside. At the miniWater heater it enters the home. mum ensure cracks in the Wrapping it in blanket insumasonry are sealed and the lation is important, but so is Radiators hearth is caulked. draining a quart of water from Hot-water radiators need to it every three months to ensure be bled of air. Be sure to use Dryer Consider an indoor dryer vent that uses a water bucket to capture the lint. Not only do you keep heat inside the home but the added humidity is a real plus too. Be sure the area has a carbon monoxide sensor. is your key

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Get your car in running condition for winter By MATT HAYES mhayes@newsminer.com We are all going to have a little more jingle in our pockets soon as dividends start hitting bank accounts. Before making a down payment on a new snowmachine or carting home fancy TVs and sound systems that can crack windows, it’s a good idea to invest in a little TLC for the one you love most — your vehicle. Alaska winters can take a toll on cars and trucks and as the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of bacon and you won’t make it home if your vehicle breaks down. Alaskans deal with this every year. Some of us get a jump on the process and have our cars and homes fully winterized usually by St. Patrick’s Day. But your car doesn’t like the cold any more than you do, and it will last longer and treat you better if you keep it happy.

The best option for keeping a vehicle in optimal running condition is to build a heated garage, park the vehicle in it and give it the occasional back rub. This has the added benefit of making home life more pleasant. That’s not an option for many of us, so we decided to ask the professionals. Joy Fick at Alaska Auto Care said your vehicle’s antifreeze should be good to -55 degrees. She said a block heater, oil pan heater and heated battery blanket are necessary for the Interior’s harsh winters. The battery heater is especially important for older batteries, she said. Transmission pan warmers are available to keep that vital fluid flowing. At the NAPA auto parts store on Geist road, David Garris said they can supply Sam Harrel/News-Miner the block and oil pan heater, battery blanket and winter Laegan Bole tries to avoid standing in the deep snow as she clears her windshield of the wiper blades for about $150. 8 to 10 inches of snow that fell that January morning. Your vehicle’s antifreeze should be Garris also recommends anti- good to -55 degrees. A block heater, oil pan heater and heated battery blanket are necesPlease see CARS, Page 14

sary for the Interior’s harsh winters. The battery heater is especially important for older batteries. Transmission pan warmers are available to keep that vital fluid flowing.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

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Fairbanks city snow removal operator Kyle Moses clears a lot between Arco Field and the Fairbanks Dog Park. Snow plows are a common sight on Fairbanks streets in the winter time, from clearing snow and ice off the streets to spreading gravel to help traction.

CARS: Alaskans don’t walk outside on cold mornings — we use auto start Continued from Page 11

freeze be good to -55 and said it’s best to use the manufacturers suggested brand of antifreeze for warranty purposes. Real Alaskans don’t walk outside on bitter cold mornings, stick a key in the ignition and start their car. Real Alaskans have auto start. Bob Boswood at Auto Trim Design has been installing auto starts since 1992. He said in Fairbanks probably more people own remote starting mechanisms per capita than anywhere else in the world.

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“They’re a lot more than convenience,” Boswood said. “Some people rely on them to keep their vehicle from freezing up.” Boswood said today’s auto start units can sense cold and start the vehicle at a pre-set temperature, allowing it to run for 18 minutes. Modern auto starts also can let you know the car has started so you don’t have to peer through frosted windows to make sure it’s running. Boswood says the main thing to consider before purchasing an auto start unit is distance. The distance between your

HOME WEATHERIZATION

home, office or workplace and where the vehicle is parked is important. He has units that will work anywhere from 1,000 feet to one mile and will start your car from inside the theater or even the Carlson Center. Basic units run $499 to $599 Boswood said.

Tires In real estate, it’s all about location. For winter driving in Alaska, it’s all about traction. At American Tire and Auto, Phyllis Robertson has been talking tires to anyone who will listen since the Rea-

gan administration. Robertson says Blizzaks are the best tire for Alaska, especially the Interior. These tires cost a little more but users say they are worth the money. Sans the Blizzaks, Robertson recommends studded snow tires. “They don’t make an allseason tire for Alaska, especially the Interior,” Robertson said. Robertson said if you’re getting snow tires, get all four. Don’t just put them on the drive wheels. Even with front-wheel drive cars, she said to put good snow tires on the rear

axle also or risk watching the back of the car pass the front of the car on slippery turns. Common sense is the key to safe winter driving. Keep your vehicle plugged in, install good wiper blades, change the oil regularly and keep the gas or diesel tank as full as possible to avoid condensation in the fuel tank. Keep basic survival gear in the car. Blankets and gloves, warm clothes and footwear, flashlight, road flares, tow strap, shovel, a bag of sand for traction, jumper cables and a Saint Bernard to go get help in case of a breakdown.

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

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Low Mass boilers versus High Mass We are often asked to explain the differences between a high mass boiler and a low mass boiler. The answer is fairly simple; high mass means large volume (generally cast iron) and low mass means small in size (generally welded steel). The idea behind a big boiler is that once a train starts moving it’s hard to stop. The idea behind a low mass is more like a Prius, fast, light and efficient. First of all, the matter of efficiency is where, understandably, many people become confused . The government has rated the different heating units according to the AFUE system. This is simply a laboratory test that says when you burn oil in this unit it turns a certain percentage of the fuel into heat. The Brookhaven testing labs ,one of the most prestigious in the country, studied the operation of all boilers in the field. They found that the AFUE rating was very misleading. Units that tested out at 95 percent AFUE dropped down 12 points when tested in the field. Others dropped by as much as 26 points. It has long been thought that a cast iron boiler would last longer than welded steel boilers, but that has not proven true in all cases. The most popular low mass boiler (2.5 gallons water volume) has a 25 year limited lifetime warranty. Thousands of units in Fairbanks and throughout the states are still in operation after 25 years. It is also generally held to be true that a high mass boiler works better for radiant heating systems, but with proper installation, a low mass boiler can work quite well for radiant heat and also save money One problem that low mass boilers face is the fact that they generally have a lower stack temperature. The typical cast iron boiler has about a 500 degree F. stack temperature the low mass units about 375 degrees F. This lower temperature can cause some problems if it is not handled correctly. Most times a proper stainless steel liner can solve the problem because the existing chimney may simply be too big for the lower temperatures. Cast iron boilers are generally very reliable and have only a few disadvantages. The main disadvantage is their inability to be turned off and on according to the weather. This is particularly noticeable in summer. (We all know someone who has a garage that is overheated by his cast iron boiler in the summer time.) Low mass boilers are designed to heat up and cool down as many times as needed, and because of their size they are more adaptable to the changes in weather. Cast iron has the disadvantage of being easily damaged from thermal shock. Most of us have heard about a cast iron boiler cracking. It is virtually unheard of for a welded steel boiler to crack from thermal shock. High mass boilers are heavy. A typical one can weigh 700 pounds and they are not easily transported. Heaven help you if your boiler room is in the basement and your 700 pound boiler has to be removed. Low mass boilers on the other hand are light and easily shipped or moved. A high mass cast iron boiler is designed to idle constantly, and this is considered normal, yet if you did the same thing with your automobile you would certainly burn more gasoline. There are several low mass boilers out on the market today that do not idle and as a result they can save as much as 30% on your fuel bill. Bruce and Jaye Delbridge, Joshua Industries Inc.

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Help mom take a break: Get the kids involved in sports By DANNY MARTIN dmartin@newsminer.com Fairbanks offers an abundance of activities for youth during the winter, covering the gamut from basketball to bowling to hockey to skiing. The following are a few popular activities during the cold months and the organizations offering them. •The Fairbanks Amateur Hockey Association features youth programs from the ice dragon initiation program (ages 8 and under) to the midget level (18 and under). Sign-ups are ongoing and the registration fees vary depending on the level. The season runs from October through February for the ice dragons and mite levels (8-U) and from October through March for squirt (10U), pee wee (12-U), bantam

(14-U) and midget. For more information, call 456-3242 or visit www.fahaonline.com. •The Fairbanks Youth Soccer Association began the first session of its indoor season on Sept. 28, and it runs through Nov. 21. Tanya Spencer, FYSA office assistant, said some of the age groups for the first session are full, but those interested can call 456-3976 or go online to www.fysasoccer.org to learn which groups John Wagner/News-Miner have available spots. John Richart entertains snowmachine fans with a no-footed can-can near the finish line The first session is open to 4-year-old players and those of the 2008 Tesoro Iron Dog Snowmachine Race in February. in the U-12 to high school levels. The second session, for U6 to U-10 players, is scheduled for Jan. 25-March 27. A special session is also set

From snowmachines to mushing, Fairbanks offers a taste of it all

Please see ACTIVE, Page 19

The ground is white. It’s time to hit the trails. You know it. Sled dogs know it. Snowmachines don’t know it, but if they had brains they probably would. If you’re looking to get into dog mushing or snowmachining — and have a couple of grand to toss around — there are plenty of resources available around Fairbanks to help you

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get started. The Fairbanks Snow Travelers (snowtravelers.org) and Fairbanks Snowmobile Fun Lions are two local groups that can offer advice and know-how. Craig Compeau, owner of Compeau’s, said talking to your friends and neighbors is the best place to start. A decent snowmachine for a beginner will cost between $5,000 and $7,000 new and at least $1,800 used from a dealership, he estimated. A good helmet will put you

back $100 to $500, but loaners are available from some dealers. Avoiding frostbite with a suitable windshield and attire also is important. And wait. One of the most common mistakes beginners make is going for a ride when there’s not enough snow. Riding can do severe damage to a snowmachine’s rear suspension if there’s not 6 inches of base, which is hard-packed snow. If you’re interested in runPlease see OUTSIDE, Page 18

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Skiers glide downhill at the summit of Moose Mountain Ski Resort.

Wax up those skis: Time to hit the trails By MATIAS SAARI msaari@newsminer.com The Fairbanks area is a Mecca for cross country skiing — and plenty of opportunities exist for learning how to stride or skate on snow. The Interior is blessed with perhaps the longest ski season in the country, as the snow generally falls by mid-October and doesn’t disappear until late April. Finding gear such as skis, boots and poles is not difficult at shops such as Beaver Sports, Goldstream Sports or Mountain Sports, while used equipment can be obtained at Play It Again Sports. There are also several preseason ski swaps, including a popular one at West Valley High School in October. The two disciplines of cross country skiing are classic, for which the skier — generally using parallel tracks — propels forward by “kicking” (thereby engaging wax that

sticks briefly to the snow) and gliding; and skating, for which the skier alternates pushing one ski outward at an angle, similar to the technique for ice skating. Former UAF and U.S. Ski Team Nordic coach John Estle recommends that beginners start with classic skiing. “The main reason is you can, on slow Fairbanks snow, get the feel of skiing probably more easily classic skiing than you can skating,” Estle said. Lessons for junior skiers and adults are available through the Nordic Ski Club or Fairbanks. The University of Alaska Fairbanks also offers a Nordic skiing course during the spring semester. Estle said lessons are important for those who have never skied before, but he also suggested another option — follow a friend who is a capable skier and is willing to patiently offer some instruction. Please see SKI, Page 19

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

Filling foods for cold winter nights By BETSY MATHIS bmathis@newsminer.com As winter rolls in, so do cravings for comfort foods. Unfortunately, most of our favorite warm-you-up dishes are high in fat and empty calories. So how can you keep warm without adding an extra layer of fat to your frame? Reach for vegetables and lean meat. Easy vegetables soups incorporate plenty of vitamins and are high in flavor and low in trans and saturated fats. And using lowsodium chicken or vegetable stock reduces the sodium stamp on your meal. If you want to lighten up your meal but don’t want to skip the meat, incorporate turkey, fish, chicken and lean pork into your meals as more figure-friendly alternatives to meats such as sausage and

squash, cinnamon, nutmeg, chili powder and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 1 hour or until squash is soft. Transfer to blender. Blend. Serves many. BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP

beef. Below are some figurefriendly dishes to keep you warm this winter.

Ingredients • 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed • 1 medium red onion, chopped • 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock • 2-3 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional Directions In a skillet over medium heat, cook onion in olive oil until onions are translucent. Transfer to a large pot. Add chicken stock,

ORANGE PORK WITH CRANBERRY SAUCE Ingredients • 4 lean pork chops, fat trimmed • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1/2 cup orange juice • 1/2 orange, zested • 1 can whole-berry cranberry sauce Directions Brown pork over medium heat in oiled pan. Add orange juice and zest. Cover. Cook to desired doneness. Remove from pan. Pat off any orange zest remaining on pork.

Spoon 2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce over each pork chop. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes and parsnips (see recipe below). Serves 2-3 people.

ROASTED SWEET POTATO AND PARSNIPS WITH ROSEMARY Ingredients • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and sliced • 4-5 parsnips, peeled and sliced thin • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put sweet potato and parsnips on a non-stick baking sheet. Sprinkle with rosemary and oil. Cook for

45 minutes to 1 hour.

LENTIL SOUP Lentils are chock-full of fiber, protein and iron. And the combination of vegetables with lentils in this soup will leave you feeling full without feeling guilty. This also is a good meal to make on Sunday for the week ahead, because it can last a few days in the fridge. Ingredients • 1 package lentils, rinsed • 2 celery stalks, chopped • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped • 2/3 medium red onion, chopped • 1 tomato, chopped • 1/4 teaspoon dry parsley • 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock • 2 tablespoons extra-virPlease see FOOD, Page 21

MUSH: Classes, tours abound in Alaska Continued from Page 16

ning sled dogs, there are several kennels near Fairbanks that offer hour-, day- and week-long tours. At least five are listed under “dog sledding” in the yellow pages. A short, hour-long tour generally costs less than $100 and includes instructions on the basics of driving the sled and harnessing the dogs. Some kennels offer “mushing schools” on

driving a small dog team for about $300 for a 3-hour session. Of course, taking the next step — housing, feeding, training and caring for several dogs — is more of a lifestyle than a hobby. Having a dog team takes a hefty financial investment and wannabe mushers should get to know the ins and outs of the sport before taking the plunge, Alaska Dog Mushers Association

president Shannon Erhart said. “I would advise (beginners) to find a mentor, find a musher who’s into it and doesn’t mind showing them the ropes,” Erhart said. If you don’t happen to be pals with a musher, Erhart suggests getting getting out to local races or offering your help on the ADMA’s Web site, sleddog.org. Contact the News-Miner sports department at 459-7581.

Eric Engman/News-Miner

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SKI: White Mountain National Recreation area offers backcountry trails Continued from Page 17

Established trail systems include those at Birch Hill Recreation Area, UAF West Ridge, Chena Lakes and the schools at Pearl Creek, Two Rivers and Salcha. There also are many trails that are not as regularly maintained, such as in Goldstream Valley or the Creamer’s Field/Mushers Hall system. It’s possible to clas-

ACTIVE Continued from Page 16

for Jan. 30-Feb. 27. It’s open to players from U-12 to high school and the games will be played only on Saturdays. The indoor contests are scheduled to be played in middle school gymnasiums in Fairbanks and in the gym at Woodriver Elementary School. The registration fees for the first session are $65 for 4-year-olds and $90 for older players. The cost for the second session is $90 per player and it’s $50 for each participant in the special session. Call 456-3976 or visit www. fysasoccer.org for more information. ™Arctic Bowl, 952 10th Ave., offers youth bowling leagues through April. The leagues vary by age groups, beginning with the Itty Bitties for 3- to 6-yearolds. Registration is $30 for each bowler and the cost covers the prize fund and a sanctioning fee for the U.S. Bowling Congress and includes a jersey. There are also weekly bowling fees for each league. The Itty Bitties, for example, bowl two games a week at a cost of $8 per week, and the bowlers in the older leagues pay $12 a week to bowl three games. Call Doreen Holden, Arctic Bowl assistant manager, at 456-7719 for more information. Contact staff writer Danny Martin at dmartin@newsminer.com or 459-7586.

sic ski on virtually any trail that is at least snowmachinewidth. The White Mountains National Recreation Area just north of Fairbanks offers more than 100 miles of backcountry trails as well as rustic cabins that help make extended trips possible. Light-weight touring or “bgrade” racing skis are good for the primary groomed

trails while heavier and sturdier touring skis are recommended for places such as the White Mountains or the trail to Tolovana Hot Springs. “As important as the ski gear is, having the right clothing and making sure you’re dressing appropriately, that you’re layering,” Estle said, adding that a windproof outer layer is a good idea because of the speed generated going

downhill. While Fairbanks experiences its share of sub-zero temperatures, that doesn’t mean skiers shut down. During chilly spells, most participants opt to classic ski — because of the minimal glide — and often head to the hills, where an air inversion can add 20-30 degrees to the temperature compared to the low-lying valleys.

A good resource for information is the Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks Web site (www. nscfairbanks.org). Programs and schedules for touring, lessons, races and more are detailed. Another enjoyable wintertime activity is snowshoeing. More information is available at www.lathroprunning.com. Contact staff writer Matias Saari at 459-7591.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

Eric Engman/News-Miner

Clarice Moore, left, is seen with her Cocker Spaniel, Ardie, along Morris Thompson Drive with Laurie Hynson and her beagle, Buster.

Keeping your pets warm and well this winter Staff Report newsroom@newsminer.com

food for your furry friends. • Keep an eye on cats. Cats lose landmarks in the snow and can get lost easily. It’s best just to keep kitty inside. • Study the paws. Snow and ice can stick between the toe pads of many animals. Keep excess fur trimmed away from paw pads, and check the animal’s feet for icy build up or signs of irritation or redness. Granted, this is more for our inside companions who take walks outside and not so much for our weather-acclimated sled dogs. • Keep pets away from open water. We might now have much in the winter here, but it’s still dangerous. Animals sometimes fall into water, especially when covered by thin layers of ice, so hypothermia is a concern. • Provide good bedding. Quality bedding will provide lots of warmth. Avoid straw, because it can host mites, and uncovered cedar, due to potential pet allergies. • Watch out for thin dogs. Some dogs, such as those in the hound family, have low body fat. This makes them more susceptible to cold. Keep a close eye on these animals, and try to play it safe by offering warmer, covered areas early.

• Watch the forecast for temperatures below 25. Don’t allow domestic animals (cats, dogs, rabbits) to be in exposed environments under 25 degrees (Unless of course you’ve got a bunch of sled dogs, which are biologically engineered for such weather.) At temperatures above 25, provide them with some sort of shelter. A three-sided shelter is fine as long as the animals can get out of the wind and cold. Insulated shelters are preferred, and the animals should have a bedding liner. For sub-25 weather, try to bring animals to Eric Engman/News-Miner a protected environment, such A dog keeps a wary eye through its fenced-in yard on a raven that was pecking at the as a garage or basement. snow pile next to the fence at the corner of 10th Avenue and Vagabond Road. • Keep an eye out for frozen water bowls. In general, animals won’t drink as much if their water CHECK O is very cold, and they certainly N can’t drink if their water source TAX is frozen. Try to feed and water CREDIT your animals in a warmer area, S! such as a garage, if freezing temperatures are a concern. This will help avoid dehydration. • Use pet foods high in fat content. Fat helps animals maintain higher body temperatures. Check and compare ingredient — Donna Tully, registered vet, labels when choosing the best www.petwalk.com

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the recipe is how flexible it is. Don’t like mushrooms? gin olive oil Throw in whatever veggies • 1 lemon, juiced you have on hand. Jalepenos, • 3-4 lemon curls for garred or green peppers or even nish, optional corn would be great in this. • Low-fat sour cream for The spices also can be garnish, optional modified. We’ve used red pepCHILI WITH GROUND Directions TURKEY & MUSHROOMS per flakes and oregano, both Sauté celery, carrots and of which combine well with When it starts to get cold, the other ingredients. onion with oil in a pan over chili is the first thing I crave. medium heat. Ingredients Sauté until onions start to Chili is also one of the easi• 1 can tomato sauce (add est comfort dishes to give a turn translucent. up to a can of water to taste, healthy makeover. In a large pot, simmer depending on how thick you This recipe from my huschicken stock. want your chili to be) band, Joe, uses ground turAdd lentils, sautéed veg• 1 20-ounce package of key as a lean substitute for etables, parsley, tomato and ground turkey ground beef. lemon juice. • 2 cans chili beans Joe’s favorite thing about Simmer covered for 1 • 10 sliced mushrooms Continued from Page

• 1/2 chopped red onion • chili powder (at least 2 tablespoons) and cumin to taste (at least 1 tablespoon) • salt and pepper to taste Directions Cook ground turkey over medium to medium-high heat to desired doneness. Salt and pepper to taste. Drain off any excess fat. In a large pot, combine turkey, tomato sauce, mushrooms, chili beans, onion, chili powder and cumin and water if you use any. Simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours to let flavors meld together. Serves many.

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Hydrating is key to a healthy body, both inside and out Staff Report newsroom@newsminer.com When you want to keep something safe, you typically lock it up. But locking up your skin and hair behind layers of clothing can’t protect it from the elements. Dry air, cold temperatures, and constant coverage will stress your skin, and even if you haven’t had dry skin problems before, you likely will in the frigid air of Interior Alaska. Fortunately, you can shield your skin and hair from the winter’s ravages with a few simple steps. The biggest thing you can do is stay hydrated. Winter air lacks the energy to hold much moisture, so it naturally draws moisture from your skin through osmosis. You have to constantly replenish that internal moisture Eric Engman/News-Miner by drinking water, or you (and Biking is big in Interior Alaska, and hardcore club members your skin) will become dehydrated. Coffee and soda don’t don’t let winter temps stop them. do the trick — the caffeine and sugar actually dehydrate you. For every cup of coffee, soda or alcoholic beverage, you should drink two or three more cups of water, recommends Janet Shafsky, an Anchorage-based esthe-

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Don’t forget the noggin What works for skin also helps with your hair. Running a humidifier dampens static electricity in the air, thus keeping it from going in all directions. Since you’ll be wearing a hat most of the time, your biggest hair problems likely will come from hat hair. To avoid that unpleasant experience, add conditioner to your hair-washing routine. Vogue magazine recommends a quarter-sized amount daily to protect your hair from cold weather. Remember to completely dry your hair before going outside. Wet hair freezes easily, becoming brittle and easily broken. Under a hat, wet hair takes on all sorts of strange shapes that last until they’re combed out or wetted down. To avoid the worst cases of hat hair, simply take off your hat every now and then. If you’ve conditioned your hair, you shouldn’t be as affected by static electricity. Consider carrying a comb or brush to make last-minute adjustments and prevent problems.

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Winter is a time of closure as people withdraw inside and do solitary things like reading or watching TV — but it doesn’t have to be. Fairbanks offers a wide range of clubs, groups, and events throughout the winter to entice residents and visitors. The easiest way to find something that interests you is to head to the library. Not to check out books — but to access their list of Fairbanks clubs and organizations. It’s on the Web at http://209.193.24.143 and is searchable by subject and group name. In addition to offering a database of local groups, the library hosts a handful of group activities. Various book groups make the library their meeting place, and regular events are hosted for children as well. Visit the

library’s Web site, http://library. fnsb.lib.ak.us/, for more information. The library isn’t the only hotbed for local events. The University of Alaska Fairbanks hosts a variety of student and campus organizations, many of which are open to non-students. According to Ginny Austin, the coordinator for student organizations at the university, there are more than 120 organized groups ranging in size from a dozen members to more than 100. For a full list of student organizations, including those open to participation by nonstudents, visit http://www.uaf. edu/studentorgs for a searchable index. Regardless of what your interests are, there’s bound to be something that will help you avoid those dark winter doldrums.

tician and CEO of Impressions by Janet, a line of grooming products. Internal hydration is the easiest way to avoid dry skin, but the most effective way is by running a humidifier in your home. The most effective way is to operate it in a small, enclosed room — such as a bedroom. The humidifier can run while you sleep, keeping your skin from losing moisture. Topical creams and ointments slow moisture loss and keep skin soft through repeated dry/moist cycles, but they can’t replace hydration through drinking water. In addition, not all lotions are created equal. When shopping for one, examine the ingredients list. Because they’re sorted in order of amount included, water shouldn’t be listed in the top few items. Shafsky recommends lotions based on petroleum products, aloe vera, almond oil or Vitamin E. These ingredients heal skin and prevent it from losing moisture too quickly. Here’s an easy tip: Squirt a good-sized dab of lotion on the palm of your hand and turn your hand upside down so the palm is facing the floor. If the lotion doesn’t drip off your

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

SCENES FROM A FAIRBANKS WINTER John Wagner /News-Miner

Ice climbers install an extra section of pipe to help feed the growth of two man-made ice towers seven miles north of town on the Steese Highway in January 2008. The towers, created and maintained by John Reeves and members of the Alaskan Alpine Club, serve as a colorful winter playground for climbers to get in shape and hone their skills for more remote, naturally occurring walls of ice.

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MT. AURORA/SKILAND 2009 –10

John Hagen/News-Miner

John Wagner/News-Miner

Steve Lanford snow shoes up the final leg of a race course off Faulk County Road. Lanford was racing in the Snow Shoe and Hot Chocolate Classic in January 2007.

Avery Thomas and Dave Dishneau work to secure straps from a crane hook to a submerged utility truck that crashed through the Chena River in December 2008. The vehicle’s multiple occupants escaped unharmed after breaking through thin ice near Pike’s Landing the previous night. The recovery was overseen by Fred Kuykendahl, owner of Precision Cranes, Inc.

TIRE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

SEASON PASSES ON SALE NOW!

EARLY BIRD SEASON PASS DISCOUNT RATES THRU November 1, 2009!

Renew your pass now! FREE $30 lunch card

COOPER WINTER TIRES

456-SNOW www.skiland.org

Ski, Inc., 2315 Skiland Rd., Fairbanks, AK 99712 Phone: (907) 389-2314 • Fax: 389-2002 • email: mt.aurora@att.net PAYMENTS MUST BE RECEIVED BY November 1, 2009 Please list name followed by pass type. Name(s): _____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Address:

OFF

______________________________________________________________________

Discoverer M+S

_____________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: Home _______________

___ College/Military (with ID) at $200 each = ___________

email: ____________________

___ Seniors (60 & over) at $200 each = ___________ TOTAL ENCLOSED = ___________

18355740-10-3-09WS

___ Student (7-17) at $200 each = __________

Cushman at Van Horn • 452-7131 Limited to Stock on Hand

18355776-10-3-09WS

Work ____________________

Weathermaster S/T 2

___ Adults at $300 each = ___________

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, October 3, 2009

Paid Advertising Content

NOKIAN TYRES FROM FINLAND Now Available in Fairbanks NORDIC SMART Located on the banks of the Nokia River, Nokian Tyres has been producing tires for a Nordic climate since 1904. In 1936 they produced the world’s first snow tire, the Hakkapeliitta, and made cold-weather climate history. Since then, Nokian has remained the worldwide leader in winter driving safety. Nokian’s philosophy: Tires are the only things connecting you to the ground. And, as Interior Alaska knows, this close to the Arctic Circle there often is no ground. Tires are the only thing connecting you to ice and snow.

FRICTION TIRES Getting good at the connection between vehicles, ice and snow has been Nokian’s sole focus for over 70 years. Their line of tread includes “Friction” tires as well as studded tires. Friction tires (known as studless tires in the U.S.) were developed for the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when weather is often unpredictable.

SERIOUS STUDS But when winter finally settles in, it is time to get real and carry some bite. Tire studs are serious Finnish business. When

legislation instituted harsher restrictions on road wear in Europe, Nokian refused to hang up its cleats. Instead of abandoning their studded line of tread, Nokian responded by developing a lightweight carbide-titanium stud that lasts and grips, as well as satisfies DOT demands. And in Alaska, Nokian tires classify as a nonstudded tire and are not charged the state fee of $5.00 per tire.

NON-TOXIC Nokian’s 70-year romance with arctic safety doesn’t stop with driving. Health has become a focus. Nokian is the first company in the world to have fully eliminated higharomatic (HA) oils in its production. HA oils are the by-products of oil refining and are classified as carcinogens. Nokian has developed a way to replace HA oils with natural oils such as canola in the manufacturing process. This move by Nokian not only benefits them in Finland where the tires are produced, it benefits every community in which the tires are consumed. As tires wear, hundreds of thousands of pounds of tire compound are released into the air and soil. Nokian has found a way to make this by-product of the

12 Years of Service & Repair

www.nokiantyres.com

HIGHER MPG The tire industry has developed a term known as “rolling resistance.” Low rolling resistance translates to broad fuel savings over the life of a vehicle. In plain English, "rolling resistance" refers to the amount of energy it takes to smash a round piece of rubber flat for an instant, as a tire grips the road. This momentary deformation of the tire, and the amount of energy it requires, can be regulated with smart structural and material choices in tire design. The downside of creating a tire with low rolling resistance is that it focuses on getting rid of the connection between the tire and the road. Through creative chemistry, metallurgy and design, Nokian has developed the leading ice and snow tires with the most economic rolling resistance in the industry.

NORDIC SMART Nokian has done one thing for over 70 years: Manufacture tires for people who live near the Arctic Circle. They have never branched out to find other markets. They

Steve Levey, owner of Fairbanks distributor Metropolitan Garage, proudly displays new Nokian tires. are at home, much like Interior Alaska, in the cold, dark and ice. Their challenge isn’t to find new markets, but to try and satisfy one very demanding clientele. Made in Finland, Nokian Tires are one of the few things made specifically for Fairbanks. See the research and full line of tires at Metropolitangarage.com.

Nokian Nokian Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT Hakkapeliitta 5 SUV Hakkapeliitta 5 Stability and Grip for Challenging Winter Conditions

The Premier Studded Winter Tire in North America for SUVs

Nokian WRG2

Nokian WR

Forget the Forecast.

All Weather Plus

The Premier Studded Winter Tire in North America

Nokian Tyres now available in Fairbanks at Metropolitan Garage!

18355141-10-3-09WS

METROPOLITAN GARAGE 455-7450 www.metropolitangarage.com

commuting habit both non-toxic and noncarcinogenic.