During a break in the legislature, Juneau residents take the air in Cope Park.

During a break in the legislature, Juneau residents take the air in Cope Park.


A study released last week by the University of Wisconsin concluded that Sitka is the second-healthiest community in the state of Alaska — behind Juneau.

Researchers looked at smoking rates, access to exercise, and education levels, among other factors.

The results of the study were a shot in the arm to Juneau which, frankly, seems a little more sedentary and bureaucratic than Sitka. However, local health professionals are now more motivated than ever to improve our fitness.

KCAW’s Robert Woolsey spoke with Cindy Edwards, director of the Hames Center, to learn what can be done to put Sitka on top.


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Today is the anniversary what many consider to be one of the greatest April Fool’s pranks ever: The Eruption of the Mt. Edgecumbe Volcano. Sitka legend Porky Bickar masterminded that event, which took place on a sunny morning exactly 40 years ago.