Viruses and Storms
Dear Editor: To me this virus thing is just another example of Mother Nature flexing her muscles on us wimpy humans.
I’m viewing it the same as a late winter snowstorm.
I can see it coming on the NOAA satellite loop and the forecast is for three feet of snow.
So as good Alaskans we split up some firewood, lay in a few days of grub and check out a couple of good library books.
And while we are waiting out the storm we can finally get around to watching ‘‘Lord of the Rings’’ with the kids.
If we take care of each other like Alaskans always do when Mother Natures growls, this storm will pass and in just a few weeks we will back out trolling for kings and wondering why we have three cases of Beenie Weenies stored behind the couch.
Hugh Bevan, Sitka
Dunleavy Recall
Dear Editor: The non-partisan movement to recall our governor is well underway, and Sitkans are setting an excellent example of engaged, concerned citizenship. As a reminder, the legal grounds on which the recall is based are: neglect of duties, lack of fitness, and incompetence. Each of these is supported by specific examples, and Sitkans can find explanations on the Recall Dunleavy website. Statements made by Dunleavy during his campaign for governor were soon found to run counter to actions taken once he was in office. Alaskans have witnessed devastating cuts to K-12 education, the ferry system, all state departments, and funds that provide a safety net for fellow Alaskans. Pioneers Home rate increases and cancellation of the Ocean Rangers program are among other examples of the dismantling of programs essential for Alaska.
Recent events make the recall of Dunleavy even more essential. While the Coronavirus has not yet surfaced in Alaska, the word from the medical experts is that it will. Tourism, a vital economic engine for this state, is facing an uncertain summer season. Oil prices have dropped dramatically and no one can predict how that will play out. One thing is certain – Alaska’s oil revenue prospects have dropped significantly. Alaska needs a governor with the skill set and leadership traits who will steer the state through this current crisis and, with the legislature, guide us to a future that balances healthy economic development with environmental stewardship and that makes the health/welfare of all Alaskans a priority. In his 15 months in office, Dunleavy has proved that he is not up to the task and, in fact, has violated the Alaska Constitution with some of his actions.
Remember, everyone must sign the actual recall petition this winter, even if they signed the application last fall. Our next signing event is on Saturday, March 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Unitarian church (entrance 401 Spruce Street). Other opportunities will continue to be posted in the newspaper, Raven Radio, and the community calendar. Look for signature gatherers out and about in town.
We want to reach everyone who wishes to sign! If you cannot get to an event and would like someone to come to you, please call 738-9972 or (907)952.4331. We will have a volunteer get in touch and arrange a visit to your home.
For the future of our children,
Brenda Campen,
Bridget Kaufman, Sitka
SMHS Annual Meeting
Dear Editor: Last Thursday, the Sitka Maritime Heritage Society hosted our 2020 annual meeting, featuring a panel on “Close Calls and Lessons Learned,” where we heard a variety of stories of survival told by Sitkans. We are so grateful for those whose efforts made this great night possible. Our panel moderator, Eric Jordan, skillfully guided us through the evening’s activities and tales with charisma. The audience listened with rapt attention as our volunteer panelists, John Stein, Jerry Dzugan, Caven Pfeiffer, John Linnborn and Bill Foster, recounted their incredible accounts of near misses and valuable lessons learned on the water. We are very thankful for all of their contributions.
The night also featured a survival suit demonstration by Jerry Dzugan of AMSEA followed by a competition between four audience participants. Our winner donned his suit in 50 seconds and was awarded a floating marine transceiver, which was kindly donated by LFS Marine Supplies. Thank you to all for the great show of teamwork and ability!
We also wish to thank our annual business sponsors that support the preservation and sharing of our region’s unique maritime heritage and help us to cover the core costs of operating SMHS: Venneberg Insurance, Sea Mart, Prewitt Enterprises, Foreign Automotive and the Sitka Vision Clinic. We cannot thank you enough for your generosity.
The event was filled with community members thanks to the many local businesses that posted our event flyers and the Daily Sitka Sentinel, KCAW, KIFW and the Sitka Soup, who helped us get the word out to the public. We are also grateful to the Alaska Native Brotherhood for granting permission to use the ANB Founders Hall for this event.
Last, but not least, thank you to our incredible community of SMHS members who generously share their stories, skills, and time to join us in our mission of preserving and sharing our unique maritime heritage. We are always accepting new members and if you are interested in supporting our mission or curious about getting involved in preserving and sharing our region’s maritime heritage, please visit our website: www.sitkamaritime.org.
Our annual meeting was a great example of how valuable and enjoyable it can be to celebrate and preserve our region’s maritime heritage!
Sitka Maritime Heritage Society
Board of Directors & Staff
