Wash. Times: Compliance rate for child support improves

Almost half of custodial parents received full child-support payments in 2001, a better trend toward compliance than has been recorded since the mid-1990s, the Census Bureau said in a report released yesterday.

About 45 percent of custodial parents received all the child-support payments they were due, with $5,800 the average annual amount paid, said Census Bureau analyst Timothy S. Grall.

DPA Stars

First, I want to wish everyone a lovely Thanksgiving holiday. Tomorrow, may we also remember those without bounty. Some Americans tomorrow will eat their Thanksgiving meal in a shelter and will be grateful that someone has provided that opportunity. Some of our clients may be among those or otherwise at tables less bountiful than our own. In other lands, less rich and prosperous than ours, some families will beg tomorrow for food. May we remember them in our prayers and meditations on the day we have set aside, not just for good football, but for thanks to the Giver of all prosperity and blessing.

Semi-Annual Reporting Waiver Request

Broadcast to all DPA staff from the Semi-Annual Reporting Project Design Team

As part of our continuing effort to keep you informed of the progress of
the Semi-annual Reporting project (known currently as Simplified
Reporting), this broadcast explains why we chose to request a waiver to
act on all changes. As for the name change, there has been considerable
work done to outline the policies that will guide this new way of
working, and we have realized that the term "simplified" is a bit
misleading.

Governor Launches Alaska Hire, Sets 90% Goal

(Anchorage) - The Murkowski administration this week launched a major employment program keyed to "good jobs for Alaskans" with a target goal of 90 percent or higher hire in the state's major economic categories.

In remarks Thursday, November 13 in Anchorage, Governor Frank H. Murkowski said the initiative goal is resident hire rates of 90 percent or higher in construction, oil and gas, mining, seafood and forest products and tourism, as well as state and federal government.

Director's Message: Appropriate Business Behavior

At times, our work requires us to make very difficult decisions when assisting clients. It is important as public servants, that we outline the difference between appropriate and inappropriate workplace conduct. This is the first of several reminder broadcasts that I will send regarding appropriate business behavior. I would like you to discuss each featured topic during staff meetings to ensure we are demonstrating responsible state stewardship. As much as possible, examples will be provided in the broadcasts.