November 15, 2009
Ignatius Akaran stands before the new clinic.
Kotlik clebrates opening of new clinic
The new Kotlik clinic, named for longtime health aide Adela B Okitkun, was dedicated November 13, 2009.
Clay Okitkun, Adela's son, cut the ribbon at 1:00 p.m., officially opening the clinic and initiating ceremonies that included a blessing by Jimmy Okitkun and stories by community members remembering Adela's selfless contributions to the Kotlik community.
Shortly afterwards the group of more than 60 gathered at the community hall where Tribal administrator Joseph P. Mike spoke as well as YKHC leadership representatives Greg McIntyre and Jack Crow. Kathy Berzanske of the Denali Commission and long time health aide and current board member Paula Ayunerak also spoke, commending the community and the health aides for putting in the hard work, effort and cooperation it took to get the clinic planned, built and opened.
