To the Editor:
A May 1 letter authored by Kip Valvoda gives readers the impression that Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) is neglecting lead-based paint in its public housing properties.
This is not the case. The health and safety of our tenants is a top priority since AHFC’s very mission is “to provide Alaskans access to safe, quality and affordable housing.
Lead based paint was banned for use in the United States in 1978, and AHFC has worked to address the issue of old lead based paint. Etolin Heights in Wrangell is a good example of how AHFC has responsibly addressed the issue. Etolin Heights was inspected by certified environmental specialists in 1993 and a follow-up report indicated some lead paint on exterior siding and trim. The issue was mitigated when the entire property went through a major renovation between 1995 and 2000. A follow-up risk analysis was conducted and soil samples were taken which verified the successful elimination of the lead-based paint.
Thank you for allowing us this opportunity to respond.
Catherine M. Stone Director, Public Housing Division
To the Editor:
I have to admit dealing with the Wrangell Sentinel this past 6 months has been very difficult for me personally. It is difficult to not be able to disclose information. There is an obligation for District personnel to keep information about students and parents confidential. It bothers me that so much negativity has been written about Wrangell Public Schools. I don’t believe it reflects on the kind of schools, staff and community Wrangell is.
I like to think I am a person of much integrity. I like to think I am a hard worker, caring, knowledgeable educator who thinks nothing but the best of the staff, kids and families that make up Wrangell Public Schools. I think all kids are good. Sometimes like adults, kids make bad decisions. I believe as a community and school it is our obligation to provide the resources to help them make positive decisions, learn from their mistakes, and help them develop strong relationships and become model citizens. I believe that should come from adult role models. I think our staff are honest caring adults who give everything they can to help kids be successful both academically as well as assist in developing strong character traits.
In my own character traits along with a Christian belief, I tend to follow a code of ethics called “Cowboy ethics” maybe it came from cutting my teeth on Louis Lamour books, working on ranches, raising cows or growing wheat. I am not sure, but as long as I can remember there were some things that meant more to me than anything else. I see many of these traits in Alaskans; solid character, sound family values, good work ethic and patriotism. The Alaskan loves, lives off of, and depends on the land, and its creatures. Alaskans are excellent stewards protecting and enhancing the environment.
I believe Alaskans live by these principles our great nation was founded on. Be good to and respect your neighbor and the land, follow the laws that enable each person to freely live by these principles and lastly, be proud to have the strength to stand strong and protect these values for today and future generations. For conflict can only exist if the one who instigates it believes that they have a reasonable chance of imposing their will on others.
When I first arrived in Wrangell, I was told “Rich, there are two sides of the street in Wrangell and no sidewalk. You are going to have to pick a side.” I am glad to say I haven’t picked a side. I like and respect the people on both sides of the street and in fact, I don’t see them on either side of the street, but walking down the street. I believe we have to respect each other’s differences and find common ground.
A book I recently read talked about a community that had very little illness. There was a large study done in the community to see if it was attributed to eating more fruits and vegetables, eating less meat, water or any other life style factors. The underlying factor was finally identified. Everyone in the community got along. There was very little conflict.
I will end with one other comment. In a democracy a community usually ends up with the leadership it deserves.
It is my hope that in the future Wrangell can focus on the positive things that make Wrangell such a great community and one I will miss. I am very proud to have served as the Superintendent of Wrangell Public Schools and hope that as a community that you stand up for the schools, teachers and staff and all the good things they do for kids. Wrangell is a very special place, a great place to raise kids, great schools and a great community. One of the most respected in the State. We shouldn’t let negative comments dominate public perception.
Dr. Rich Rhodes
Superintendent
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