The United Methodist Church of Chugiak held its annual Interfaith Blessing of the Animals Aug. 14 at the Eagle River Town Square. Pastor Carlo Rapanut led a service with an individual blessings of animals brought by their owners immediately following. Animal Control participated in the free public blessing bringing several animals that were up for adoption. Jane Bailey also took free pet-with-owner portraits.

Air Force Reserve Airman Samuel C. McPherron graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio. McPherron completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. He is the son of Randy and Carol McPherron of Eagle River. McPherron is a 2006 graduate of Eagle River High School.

Brian Jewell of Eagle River graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in Middle Eastern Studies from American Public University System. The commencement was held at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, DC.

Penny Mosher of Palmer, a member of Eagle River #9785, led the state delegation of the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) of the U.S. at the 97th National Convention held Aug. 21-26 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. Mosher, Alaska's president, voiced the delegates' votes during the election of National Officers and played a key role in deciding the direction of the national organization for 2010-2011.