Robert Woolsey, KCAW, Author at KCAW

Acknowledging Tlingit Aaní to promote respect, healing in Sitka’s schools

The Sitka School Board will consider acknowledging Tlingit lands when it formally opens its meetings, if a proposal introduced last week (12-2-20) gets traction.

It’s raining data: Autumn storms a trove of information for Sitka landslide research

A slew of new instruments is helping shed some light on whether a storm will produce only the usual downed limbs and trees, blowing trash cans, and power outages -- or has the potential for more serious damage.

Just hang up: Social Security phone scam returns in time for the holidays

In the latest version of the scam the calls have gotten more menacing. They say there's a problem with your Social Security number, and if you don’t call back right away they’ll issue a warrant for your arrest. If you get such a call, the SSA says you should hang up.

Sitka School Board to seek outside guidance in the search for a new superintendent

At a work session on November 18, board members reached a consensus that the Alaska Association of School Boards could provide valuable support and guidance to advertise for a superintendent, screen the candidates, conduct interviews, and make an offer.

Friends build a quiet memorial to Sitka’s most attentive listener

A little over a year since noted Alaskan naturalist Richard Nelson died, friends have created "The Listening Place" to honor his memory -- and to share his gift of patient observation.

Devoted to small fry, a former hatchery manager dives in as director of the Association of Alaska School Boards

Former Sitka School Board president Lon Garrison has been named executive director of the Association of Alaska School Boards. A former aquaculturist, Garrison hatched a plan to lead the AASB as early as 2015.

Unopposed, Bert Stedman captures 5th senate term

Bert Stedman has clinched his fifth term in the Alaska State Senate. He’ll begin the next session as one of the legislature’s most senior members, with 18 years of service. However, he says it could be one of the most challenging sessions of his career.

As cases surge, Sitka moves to remote instruction for a week (at least)

Sitka’s schools are closing down for a week, after a surge in coronavirus cases in the community. Superintendent John Holst hopes to see a "downward trend" before allowing schools to reopen.

Small cruise ships may spell ‘Victory’ for Sitka’s new industrial park dock

Victory Cruise Lines is bidding to "turn" its 200-passenger Ocean Victory 7-8 times in 2021 at Sitka's Gary Paxton Industrial Park.

Search underway for bear following ‘predatory’ attack on a neighborhood dog

Wildlife authorities in Sitka are searching for a brown bear that broke through a fence and killed a large dog Wednesday night (11-4-20). Although the dog’s body was recovered, officials believe the attack was predatory, and they intend to destroy the bear when it’s found.