Local News

Southeast’s hatchery chum salmon bonanza a timely hedge against disaster

by Robert Woolsey, KCAW | Dec 14, 2018

2018 was the worst season for pink salmon in Southeast Alaska in 44 years -- but it wasn’t the worst season for the salmon fleet, thanks in part to the region’s non-profit hatcheries, according to Steve Reifenstuhl, the general manager of the Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association. He outlined for the Sitka Chamber of Commerce how hatcheries are a four-decade old bet that has paid off.

Assembly hears update on hospital negotiations, considers raise for firefighters

by Katherine Rose | Dec 13, 2018

The Sitka Assembly on Tuesday heard an update from consultant Steve Huebner on negotiations between the city and SEARHC over the potential acquisition of Sitka Community Hospital. They also reviewed a collective bargaining agreement with the Sitka Firefighters Union.

Failed protective device trips breaker at Green Lake, causing outage

by Katherine Rose | Dec 12, 2018

KCAW News spoke with utility director Bryan Bertacchi, who said that a breaker tripped at the Green Lake power plant, causing a brief power outage across Sitka from around 5:50 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday (12/12/18).

Holiday stress can exacerbate domestic violence, advocates say

by Enrique Pérez de la Rosa, KCAW | Dec 12, 2018

While Sitkans are counting down the days to the winter holiday, local advocates for victims of domestic violence are getting ready to work overtime. What is supposed to be a season of joy can actually increase the risk of abuse for many reasons.

The Morning Interview

Sentinel Sports: Tough basketball schedule opens; wrestling ends with a twist

Dec 18, 2018

Teams from both Sitka High and Mt. Edgecumbe opened their basketball seasons with strong performances against tough opponents, in order favorably weight their rankings for the state tournament. In wrestling, MEHS coach Mike Kimber was inducted into the Alaska Wrestling Hall of Fame in the opening ceremony of last weekend's state meet. However, his top, undefeated wrestler lost a 5-1 decision in the heavyweight title match. Daily Sitka Sentinel sports editor Klas Stolpe talks with KCAW's Robert Woolsey.

Earthquake, tsunami safety is not a maybe, but a must in Sitka

Dec 17, 2018

Sitka fire chief Dave Miller and community affairs director Maegan Bosak discuss earthquake and tsunami safety in the community. Both hazards are an ever-present reality on the so-called "Ring of Fire" in the North Pacific.

Blatchley students celebrate ‘Colors of our Community’ with art installation

Dec 14, 2018

Students from Blatchley Middle School joined KCAW's Brooke Schaefer in the studio to discuss a student-led visual arts project celebrating diversity in our community. The installation, called "Colors of Our Community" will be curated by students with support of local artists.

Boys Run 5K set for Saturday, December 15

Dec 13, 2018

SAFV's Boys Run Program is gearing up for its annual 5K Fun Run, 10 a.m. Saturday, December 15. This year's theme is Color Run! Participants in grades 3 through 5 and coaches discuss what they have learned this year, and invite Sitka to join their celebration this weekend.