Emily Kwong, KCAW, Author at KCAW

Murkowski in Sitka hours after critical health care vote

Less than 24 hours after casting a critical vote on healthcare, Senator Lisa Murkowski was back in her home state of Alaska. She had choice words about voting her conscience, despite pressure from the GOP and President Trump himself.

Video: Coast Guard medevacs man from fishing vessel

A man suffering from chest pain was hoisted from a fishing vessel by the U.S. Coast Guard Wednesday night (07-26-17). Pilot Lt. Robert McCabe said the hoist was one of the most challenging the Air Station has ever done because of the low visibility.

Sparks fly at Sitka Assembly over rogue fireworks displays

There were fireworks at the Sitka Assembly table last night (07-25-17), as the group debated...

ADF&G maps out new zones for mountain goat hunting

The Alaska Department of Fish & Game has a new management strategy for mountain goat hunting. The season begins on August 1st.

Oprah’s short visit to Sitka and lasting impact on fans

Media mogul Oprah Winfrey set foot in Sitka today. She was ferried here on a Holland America cruise ship with hundreds of loyal fans aboard, seeking adventure and a chance to chat with the queen of daytime television.

On hospital, Assembly to issue RFP seeking offers

In the management of Sitka Community Hospital, the Assembly is opening the doors for additional offers. They directed staff to work with an outside entity to draft a request for proposal - or RFP.

Despite uncertainty, Sitka Hospital maps out a future

Sitka Community Hospital is in the early stages of a make-over. Building upon the recommendations of an outside consultant, hospital leadership is directing changes to make the hospital a standalone operation.

Consultant says Sitka hospital must adapt, align

In order to survive, Sitka Community Hospital will have to adapt. An outside consultant also noted the hospital will have to eventually align with the Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium.

High cost of pension a key factor in Sitka hospital sale

The potential sale of Sitka Community Hospital comes with a catch: $35 million in retirement and benefit obligations. That’s the estimate of Conduent, an outside consultant.

Rates for water, sewer, and garbage collection to rise

A community-driven public transportation project has been given the green light by the Sitka Assembly at their Tuesday night meeting (07-11-17). The body also gave final approval to a full roster of rate increases to keep up with inflation and fund future infrastructure projects.