Category: Commentary

Commentary: Prop 1 will have unintended consequences for Sitka’s economy

by KCAW News | May 21, 2025 | Commentary

My name is Doug Borland, and my wife and I are 30-year residents of Sitka. As long-time Sitka downtown business owners, our Russian American stores employ six full-time Sitkans and up to 12 including our summer temporary staff. Today I would like to express some concerns regarding the upcoming anti-cruise ship referendum vote. Read More

Tribal candidate statement: Sonya L. Smith

by KCAW News | Nov 8, 2024 | Commentary

"Overall I see alcoholism and other drugs have impacted Sitka’s service delivery programs for healthcare in the following ways: 1. mental health, 2. suicide, 3. family dysfunction and separation. As Tribal citizens we need to bridge this gap between healthcare and culture." -- Sonya Smith Read More

Commentary: A ‘No’ on Prop. 2 preserves voter options

by KCAW News | Oct 30, 2024 | Commentary

If your first-choice candidate doesn’t win, your vote will still count if you pick a second and third choice. In my book, having more than one choice is a good thing. Read More

Commentary: Project 2025 poses alarming threat to Alaska

by Tory O'Connell Curran | Oct 8, 2024 | Commentary

My name is Tory OʼConnell Curran and this is my opinion. Alaskans may vote early beginning October 21st. Voting for Trump and Vance includes supporting Project 2025, the Presidential Transition Project of the Heritage Foundation. I would like to highlight a few things that would mean for Alaskans that you might not be aware of: Read More

Commentary: The numbers are too high

by Martina Kurzer | Jan 26, 2024 | Commentary

My name is Martina Kurzer. I have lived in Sitka since 1995. We have heard a lot recently about the question what number of cruise ship passengers would be appropriate to maintain a robust economy in our home town. I presented my thoughts at the tourism task force town hall meeting and was asked to let more people know about them. Read More