December 2013

Rescuers recommend prevention techniques

The holiday festivities are almost over. Now it’s time to enjoy all that Christmas loot. In Sitka, some of the most prized Christmas toys aid in outdoor exploration. But with these toys, comes great responsibility. Search and Rescue captain Don Kluting and Air Station Sitka operations officer Pete Melnick had these words of warning for Sitkans eager to hit the trails.

Tue Dec 31, 2013

It’s our annual year-in-review. 2013 began with an earthquake, and the wild ride never quite ended. A dog in Yakutat fell into a well, some prominent Sitkans fell into even hotter water, a record fishing season and industrial activity paired with federal budget sequestration made for interesting economic times: there was struggle, human loss and tragedy, and an epic story of survival and escape from a landslide.

Sitka in 2013: Shaking earth, falling mountain

In Sitka, the earth moved under our feet in January -- like everywhere else in Southeast -- but one couple in particular will probably be choosing their campsites pretty carefully from now on. 2013 started with an earthquake, and the wild ride never quite ended. An amazing fishing season plus a surge in industrial activity pushed the regional economy to new highs, but not everyone cashed in -- especially those affected by federal budget cuts. Here's a look back at some of the top local news stories of the year.

Mon Dec 30, 2013

The state appeals court on Friday reinstated charges of excessive fishing against former state senator and two others. Researchers met in Juneau to discuss what Southeast Alaska might look like in 70 years given weather trends.

Brave Heart celebrates the New Year, more volunteers needed

Brave Heart Volunteers will show appreciation for volunteers and contributors by throwing a New Year's Eve party. Jessica Gibson, Brave Heart Development Director discusses the details, and requests more volunteers for ongoing programming.

Sitka polar dippers take annual plunge

On Saturday (12-28-13) about 100 Sitkans took a swim without wet suits, dry suits, or survival suits -- although one was in a Santa suit -- in the Sitka Channel near the University of Alaska. The Annual Polar Dip was sponsored by the Sitka High School National Honor Society. KCAW’s Rich McClear was there and asked the only reasonable question a reporter could ask: Why?

Fish and Game butts in to protect the goats

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game announced an emergency closure for mountain goat hunting in the North Fork Katlian River area in Sitka. Biologists have set a maximum guideline harvest objective of four male mountain goats, or one female mountain goat for the area.

Rescuers focus attention on prevention

Cdr. Pete Melnick, Air Station Sitka, and Sitka Mountain Rescue captain Don Kluting discuss some simple ideas for outdoor safety, whether you're planning a major hike or an afternoon walk.

Fri Dec 27, 2013

Ancient skeletal remains discovered in the basement of KCAW's Cable House have been exhumed and placed in the custody of the Sitka Tribe of Alaska. Juneau airport will open a food concession inside security area. Ketchikan council member resigns under pressure after accusations surface of misconduct in his teaching career.