Climate Connection: Connecting to the issues, the solutions and each other – a collaborative effort by Sitkans concerned about climate change.
Active Transport: Why Bike?
By Lisa Sadlier-Hart
A recent column pointed out that transportation accounts for 28% of US carbon emissions and according to Cool Climate Map, 31.5% of Sitka’s carbon emissions. Okay folks, so one way for us to “drive” this down is to commit to active transport more of the time. Let’s start with biking.
Did you know that Sitka has a silver level Bicycle Friendly Community designation? And, we have made strides in creating safe, inviting cycling experiences? So what are some of the best reasons to bike more in Sitka?
#1. It’s cheaper. In 2015, the average US cost to drive was 58 cents per mile. Think fuel, insurance, maintenance, service, etc. You just don’t have that with a bicycle, so that means more money in your pocket. #2. It’s healthier. Cycling is great for your heart and lungs and it makes you happier by boosting brain chemicals and improving your sleep. #3. It’s fun! Riding over the O’Connell Bridge on a sunny day is a blast, especially going downhill with the air streaming around you! #4. Parking is easier! We are lucky to have plenty of covered bike sheds and other nifty aluminum fish to lock up to. #5. It maximizes your time! No need to schedule time to make it to the gym or schedule a home workout; fitness is built right into the commute. #6. It’s great for the public good. There’s less wear and tear on roads, less traffic, cleaner air and quieter neighborhoods. #7. It’s an opportunity to explore. Biking the Cross trail or out to Starrigavan or Silver Bay allows time to take in nature’s sights and sounds along the way! #8. It’s engaging! Cycling allows you to really check out Sitka in a way that you can’t do from a car. You catch the seasons as they change and the neighbor’s projects as they unfold in their yards. #9. It creates a natural decompression time between home and work. Bike commuting gives you space to process the day and then leave it behind you. And #10. Cyclists can join the new Sitka Cycling Club and take part in Sitka’s Bicycle Benefits program - sweet discounts at 12 local businesses when you bike and bring your helmet in with your sticker on it.
Turn learn more go to https://sitkacycling.wordpress.com/
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Lisa Sadlier-Hart is a member of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Sitka
Sitkans Get in Gear for
National Bike Month
May is National Bike Month and Sitkans are being encouraged to find ways to get out and ride.
The month of scheduled activities concludes with the annual Sitka Community Bike Ride on Saturday, May 25. The 128th anniversary of the first bike seen in Sitka (on May 28, 1891) is observed with a ride through downtown. The family friendly event is to celebrate cycling, and people are being encouraged to take any classic or unusual bikes they have.
Also on the agenda are: National Bike to School Day on Wednesday, May 8; the Sitka Bike Rodeo for kids on Saturday, May 11; the National Bike to Work Week (May 13-18) drawing for prizes for those who commute to work or school by bike during the week; two Sitka Cycling Club monthly meetings on Wednesday, May 1, and Friday, May 24, at the Sitka Public Library; the Julie Hughes Triathlon on Saturday, May 18; and the Sitka Trail Works Cross Trail guided bike ride on Saturday, May 4.
‘‘In addition, we plan a special second annual Blessing of the Bikes and Worldwide Ride of Silence on Wednesday, May 15, at Crescent Harbor,’’ organizers said. ‘‘This event honors those cyclists who have been killed or injured by cars or trucks and also celebrates cyclists’ rights to use the roads.’’
As in past years, cyclists who ride their bikes to work, school or on errands during National Bike To Work Week (May 13-17) can fill out tickets at Yellow Jersey Cycle Shop for a chance to win a gift certificate from Yellow Jersey, with other prizes possible. The prize drawing will be at the Julie Hughes Triathlon on May 18. To donate a prize, contact Doug Osborne at dosborne@sitkahospital.org.
In addition, Sitka cyclists can join with thousands of others from around the country as they ride in the fifth annual National Bike Challenge, a free event that runs from May 1 through Sept. 30. Cyclists can ride as individuals, for their workplaces or on other teams, and the mileage they log also will help their cities and states in the rankings. In 2016 more than 45,000 cyclists rode nearly 25 million miles during the five months of the National Bike Challenge (stats weren’t available for 2017 or 2018).
Sign up for the free Sitka Cycling Club by going to http://sitkacycling.wordpress.com. Also, join Sitka’s Bicycle Benefits program at any local business partner and get a sticker that gives bikers discounts at several businesses.
Finally, Sitka will host the inaugural Alaska Walk and Bike Conference on June 4-8 at the Aspen Suites Hotel.
For more information contact Charles Bingham at 623-7660 or go to http://sitkacycling.wordpress.com.
Community Land
Trust Group Meets
The Sitka Community Land Trust will meet 6:15-7:45 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at the Sitka Public Library.
The public can attend. The SCLT is a non-profit organization that relies on community support and participation. For information contact Mim McConnell at 738-2888.
SAFV Board Meets
The board of Sitkans Against Family Violence will meet 4:30 p.m. May 6 at the interim office location, 601 Alice Loop, room 109.
The meeting is open to the public. For information, call 747-3370.
Wildlife Biologist
At UAS Seminar
Wildlife biologist Tory Rhoads of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game will speak at the next Natural History seminar 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 9, at UAS-Sitka Campus
Her talk will be about bats in Southeast Alaska. Through a statewide effort, Rhoads utilizes citizen science power (bat driving surveys) to collect data on cryptic bat species.
During her presentation she will be presenting results from 2018’s bat driving surveys. Those who conducted a bat driving survey last year and want to see results from other surveys or are curious about the program and want to volunteer, are invited.
The Natural History seminar series is supported by a grant from the Sitka Alaska Permanent Charitable Trust to the Sitka Sound Science Center and by University of Alaska Southeast and the National Park Service.
Those with questions can contact Kitty LaBounty at 747-9432 or kllabounty@alaska.edu.
Last Day of
School May 23
The last day of school for all students in the Sitka School District is Thursday, May 23. Students will be dismissed as follows:
First grade and bus, 11:45 a.m.; kindergarten pick-up, noon; grades 2-5, noon; Pacific High School, 12:30 p.m.; Blatchley Middle School, 12:45 p.m. and Sitka High School, 12:50 p.m.
No lunches will be served.
This Week in Girls on the Run
By Sitkans Against Family Violence
Girls on the Run is an empowerment-based program for girls in third- through fifth-grade, currently in its 11th season at Keet Gooshi Heen Elementary School. GOTR is more than an after-school activity; it is a program designed to bring girls together with strength and resilience and prepare them for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living.
Recently in GOTR participants have been learning to stand up for themselves and others, and participants explored why it is important to be intentional when choosing and cultivating our friendships. Teams discussed the kinds of qualities one seeks in friends, and examined difficult situations that young girls can face when in a friendship. Here is what girls had to say about choosing friends:
--“It’s important to choose your friends because you want friends who are nice to you, not mean.”
--“People might hang out with girls who are negative because they think they would bring them popularity, or they’re scared of being picked on so they protect themselves in a negative way.”
--“If (you are hanging out with people who are) negative you can pick up on what they’re doing.”
--“I think some girls put others down because it makes them feel powerful, but in a bad way. If they change their mind about that and are a positive friend, then they are powerful in a good way!”
--“You like being their friend because they like you the way that you are.”
Throughout this season, GOTR will keep providing the Sitka community with updates from the program. We also hope to give mentors and parents an opportunity to pass on skills from GOTR to the youth in your life! Here are some conversation starters for talking with kids about friendships.
*What do you think “people pleasing” means? (Stop standing up for what we believe and alter our behavior in order to be liked by others.) Have you seen kids doing this? Why is it okay to not be best friends with everyone?
*Why is it important to treat others the way we want to be treated?
*How do we feel when we are with positive friends?
Save the date for the final GOTR community 5K Fun Run 10 a.m.-noon on May 18, starting at Harrigan Centennial Hall! Stay tuned for more details. Girls on the Run of Greater Alaska is brought to you in Sitka by Sitkans Against Family Violence. Call 747-3493 for more information.
Earns Degree
Linda Walters of Sitka earned an associate’s degree in applied science in radiology technology from the University of Alaska Anchorage. She earned a grade point average of 3.7 and will graduate May 3.
Her primary role will be to provide diagnostic images of the structure and function of anatomy to assist the radiologist in reading the examinations and the provider in the treatment of injury or disease.
Fishermen’s Flea
Market May 11
The annual Fishermen’s Flea Market will be 9 a.m. Saturday, May 11, at the Mt. Edgecumbe High School/UAS-Sitka parking lots.
Those with marine-related items to sell should load up their vehicles and park in front of the MEHS gym prior to 9 a.m.
Call Denise, 747-5012, with questions. The event is sponsored by Southeast Alaska Women in Fisheries.
Woman’s Club
Meets Saturday
Sitka Woman’s Club will meet noon Saturday, May 4, at the Mean Queen at Totem Square restaurant, 201 Katlian Street.
Those with questions may call Robin at 752-8575.
Bishop to Visit
Episcopal Church
The Right Reverend Mark Lattime, 8th Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Alaska, will preside and preach at the 10 a.m. service on Sunday, May 5, at St. Peter’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church. A potluck will follow in the See House.
All are welcome. The church is located at 611 Lincoln St. For more information, call 747-3977.
Sitka Salmon
Derby Tickets
Now on Sale
Entry tickets for the 64th annual Sitka Salmon Derby are being sold at Orion Sporting Goods and LFS Marine Supplies.
Ticket prices are $20 for one day, $25 two days, $30 three days, $35 four days, and $40 for all five days. A five-day family ticket costing $70 covers only the parents or grandparents and their children or grandchildren between the ages of 6 to 15. No refunds will be given once the ticket has been purchased.
Orion Sporting Goods and LFS Marine Supplies also sell $40 annual memberships to Sitka Sportsman’s Association. The association member entering the largest king each of the five days of the derby, May 25-27 and June 1-2, qualifies for a $250 prize. A lifetime SSA membership is $250.
Anyone who complies with the rules of the derby and is past their sixth birthday is eligible to compete. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All contestants, except those exempted and children under age 16, must have a valid Alaska sport fishing license and king salmon stamp. All anglers are being urged to read new regulations published by Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
Derby brochures with printed rules and a partial listing of donated prizes are now available at Orion Sporting Goods and LFS Marine Supplies. Added valuable prizes will be publicized as the derby nears.
For more information, contact SSA Derby Chairman and President John McCrehin at 738-8636. The facebook sites are Sitka Salmon Derby and Sitka Sportsman’s Association.
Unitarians Meet
All are invited to the Sunday Unitarian gathering as Jennifer Carter presents the program “Tranquil Streams that Meet and Merge.” The group will explore the historic consolidation of the Unitarian and Universalist congregations.
Individuals gather at 10:30 a.m. and the program starts at 10:45 a.m. Soup and bread follow at noon.
Science Center
Updates Given
Sitka Sound Science Center gift shop and Ludvig’s Chowder Cart will be open this summer at the Sage Building, where the aquarium is housed. The Karsh Classroom is the first door on the right. No admission fee will be required to enter the gift shop and patronize the chowder cart.
The first day for the summer season will be Wednesday, May 8. The gift shop will be open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. The chowder cart will operate 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Yup’ik Artist Speaks
At SJ Museum
The Sheldon Jackson Museum will host a talk by Yup’ik culture bearer and artist Chuna McIntyre 3 p.m. Saturday, May 4.
McIntyre will discuss on European artists inspired by Yup’ik masks with a focus on the artistic and spiritual connection between the French modern master Henri Matisse and indigenous peoples of the Arctic. Best known for his fauvist style, expressive use of color, and paper cutouts, Matisse is less known for having painted 39 black-and-white portraits inspired by a group of Yup’ik masks. This was the subject of ‘‘Yua: Henri Matisse and the Inner Arctic Spirit,’’ the 2018 groundbreaking exhibition co-curated by McIntyre at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona.
McIntyre will be an artist-in-residence at the museum in late April and early May. During his residency, he will collaborate with museum staff and provide cultural expertise to help document the stories associated with Yup’ik masks and other Yup’ik material in the museum’s permanent collection. McIntyre has provided similar consultations to the Metropolitan Museum of Fine Art in New York, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center in Anchorage, the Honolulu Museum of Art in Hawaii, among others.
Born in Eek, a small village on the coast of the Bering Sea, McIntyre learned traditional Yup’ik dance, stories, and songs from his grandmother. He later founded and directed the Nunamta Yup’ik Eskimo Singers and Dancers, a troupe that has traveled the world. In 2007, he was an artist demonstrator at the museum. Twelve years later, the Sheldon Jackson Museum brought back this garment maker, painter, storyteller, and cultural expert for this highly significant consultation project focusing on documenting the Yup’ik mask collection.
The Alaska Native Artist Residency Program is made possible through the support of the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic (LEX-NG) Fund, Sitka Fine Arts Camp, Alaska Airlines, the Friends of the Sheldon Jackson Museum, and private donations.
Summer hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m, daily except holidays. Summer admission is $7 for adults and $6 for seniors. Visitors 18 and under are admitted free of charge. Assistance is available for visitors with special needs. Contact the museum for information at 747-8981.
Cruise to Raise
Money for SAFV
Allen Marine will host Cruise for a Cause 6-9 p.m. May 10 aboard the Chichagof Dream. The event is to raise funds for Sitka Against Family Violence.
It will include a guided tour of the Chichagof Dream, five-course meal, and a complimentary glass of wine or beer.
RSVP by May 6 to the Chamber of Commerce office, sitkachamber.membership@gmail.com.
Wildlife Tour
Fundraiser Set
Sitka Rotary Club will hold a fundraiser wildlife tour noon-3 p.m. June 2 aboard an Allen Marine Tours boat. It will leave from and return to the Centennial Hall boat dock.
‘‘Please join us for a fun wildlife tour and get to know some local Rotarians and learn about the local club,’’ organizers said.
A no-host wine and beer bar, snacks, and cheese and crackers will be included. Tickets cost $45 for adults, 21-64 years; $35 students, 13-20; and seniors 65 and older, and ages 5-15 years, $15. Younger than 5 years will be admitted free. Tickets are available from local Rotarians, or contact John Weitkamp at jweitkamp@aol.com or (818)207-2993; Jeff Budd, 747-4821, or post on the Sitka Rotary Club FaceBook page.
James Nielsen Sr.
Services Pending
Services are pending for lifetime Sitka resident James John Nielsen Sr., 89, who died this morning, May 3, at SEARHC-Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital.
An obituary will be published later in the Sentinel.
Input Sought for
Community Schools
The Sitka School Board is seeking input from members of the community as it considers the upcoming Community Schools’ request for proposals.
Community Schools is an afterschool program for youths and adults that focuses on affordable and healthy activities.
‘‘Please be part of the process by taking a few minutes to email us about what works for you on the current Community Schools calendar and what you would like to see added to the calendar,’’ the School District said.
Email suggestions and comments to info@sitkaschools.org by May 10.
