Robert Woolsey, KCAW, Author at KCAW

Sitka objects to ‘critical habitat’ designation for humpback whales

Sitka has gone on record opposing a proposed federal rule that would create special protections for humpback whales in Southeast waters, even though most of the whales that feed in the region are not listed as endangered or threatened.

Sitka’s Holiday Brass brings artists ‘Bach’ for more

Among all the hot tickets in Sitka in December, the Holiday Brass remains one of the hottest. The concert is a major fundraiser for the Sitka Fine Arts Camp, and has been at-or-near sellout for the last several years. But it’s not just the fans who are devoted to the show -- the musicians are too.

Milk does a student body good

The Sitka Fine Arts camp has received a major grant from an organization whose roots go back to the invention of the milk carton. The $116,000 will allow more students to attend the camp's popular summer programs on scholarships.

Sitka settles police whistleblower lawsuit for $325,000

Former Sitka police detective Ryan Silva filed suit in August, 2018, claiming he was harassed and demoted after calling out irregularities in the department’s procurement of automatic weapons.

‘Paint job’ draws Sitka contractor into $1 million cathedral restoration

A 171-year old landmark in Sitka is getting a new coat of paint, and some tender loving care from a contractor who never guessed it would consume three years of his professional life.

Sitka’s retailers hold their own in a season of economic uncertainty

With the holiday shopping season in full swing, Sitka’s downtown retailers are seeing the usual uptick in sales for this time of year -- but business could be better. Between the downturn in Alaska’s economy, and ever-increasing pressure from online sales, Sitka’s brick-and-mortar stores remain open -- and hopeful.