Volunteers tackle 50 years worth of trash on Gravina Island By M.C. KAUFFMAN - Dedicated volunteers who weren't put off by a little rain collected a large quantity of material during the first weekend of the Gravina Island clean-up said Ketchikan Borough Code Enforcement Officer Jerry Cegelske. - More...
Wednesday - September 06, 2006

Zipping and Paddling for A Cause By JARED GROSS - The Farewell to Summer Ketchikan Volunteer Hospice fundraiser was held on Sunday, September 3 by Southeast Exposure. The Fundraiser was attended by 68 locals who participated in Southeast Exposures most popular tours; the Eagle Island Sea Kayak, and Rainforest Ropes and Zipline Challenge. Southeast Exposure's 15 guides volunteered in the afternoon event. Over 2,500 dollars was raised for the Hospice. - More...
Tuesday - September 05, 2006

Third Annual Pennock Island Challenge Raises Funds for the American Diabetes Association By NANCY COGGINS - The opening of the third Pennock Island Challenge's 8.2-mile long-distance swim race began in the open waters of the Inside Passage on Sunday, August 6th. Twenty-one swimmers were off at 10 AM to face the challenge of swimming around Pennock Island to raise diabetes awareness and research funds for the American Diabetes Association. - More...
August 31, 2006

Local Terrorist's Weapon of Choice: Slingshot & Metal Bearings By M.C. KAUFFMAN - With great strength, experience and a cool head, driver Ryan Harris was well equipped to take control of what could have been a potentially dangerous situation for 30 passengers aboard a Seahorse Ventures tour today. - More...
Sunday - August 13, 2006

$125,000 Grant & Volunteers Will Put Bite on Gravina Litter - For several years Ketchikan Borough Code Enforcement Officer Jerry Cegelske said he's received telephone calls from concerned community members asking if something couldn't be done about the abandoned boats and trash on Gravina Island. Not only is this trash an eyesore but also a hazard to navigation and to the safety of people using the beaches in the area. - More...
Thursday - August 10, 2006

Get A Life: Taking a Dip into the High Seas - For four Ketchikan youth this summer could be the beginning of a beautiful career at sea. Ty Nausid (18), Amos Gray (19), John Peter Fraley (19), and Vanessa Catron (18) have long contemplated a sea-going career and are now experiencing life as interns aboard one of the U.S.-flag vessels critical to Alaska's economy, whether they are bringing consumer goods to Anchorage, fuel to the "bush", or crude oil to the West Coast. - More...
Tuesday - August 08, 2006

BLM Hands Over Land Where Historic School Sits To Borough By DICK KAUFFMAN - "It was a lot of struggle and effort to come to this place but like all things that are worth waiting for, I think this is one that's rare. Congratulations," Mike Zaidlicz said as he handed over ownership of the property on which the historic Clover Pass School building sits to the Ketchikan Borough. Zaidlicz, an Anchorage-based Associate Field Manager for the federal Bureau of Land Management, was in Ketchikan Tuesday for the event held at the Clover Pass School. - More...
Tuesday - August 01, 2006

Southeast Alaska's Intertie Projects Back On The Table; Governor Forms Southeast Interties Work Group By DICK KAUFFMEN - Regarding Governor Frank H. Murkowski's decision to fund a study to determine whether there are sufficient economic reasons to complete the Swan Lake-Tyee Intertie project, Ketchikan City Councilmember Charles Freeman said, "All in all, it's the best thing I've heard in two years because all we've heard in two years is no - and sometimes worse than no." - More...
Wednesday - July 26, 2006

Governor Praises Shipyard For Achievements; Cutting edge of technology starting in Ketchikan By DICK KAUFFMAN - Referring to the new $28 million high-tech vessel the Alaska Ship and Drydock has been chosen to build for the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Governor Frank H. Murkowski said, "It's pretty exciting. The cutting edge of technology is starting out right here in Ketchikan." - More...
Sunday - July 23, 2006

Manager Talks About Borough's Positive & Challenging Developments By DICK KAUFFMAN - The shortage of timber and electricity, the re-opening of the veneer mill at Ward Cove, AMHS jobs moving to Ketchikan, the Schoenbar reconstruction project, and the Gravina Access Project were all topics Ketchikan Borough Manager Roy Eckert spoke about Wednesday during the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce luncheon. - More...
Friday - July 14, 2006

Opponents of "Cruise Tax" Say Alaska's Economy Is Under Attack; Alaska Cruise Ship Initiative Slated for August Primary Ballot By DICK KAUFFMAN - Voters will soon be deciding whether the state should start taxing cruise ships and tighten regulations on these gargantuan vessels that are the lifeblood of Alaska's tourism industry. A sweeping petition targeting the cruise ship industry met the required 23,286 signatures to make it on the ballot and will go before voters in the August 22 statewide primary. - More...
Wednesday - July 12, 2006

Proposed Ketchikan Berth IV Deal Released; Public Will Have Opportunity to Review & Comment By DICK KAUFFMAN - A proposed agreement between the City of Ketchikan and Survey Point Holdings, Inc./Ketchikan Dock Company has been reached for the construction of Berth IV and for its thirty-year lease to the City of Ketchikan. - More...
Sunday - June 25, 2006

McClory Crowned 4th of July Queen By M.C. Kauffman - Sixteen-year old Aimee Marie McClory was crowned the 4th of July Queen Monday evening at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Serving in her court will be First Princess Karlee Olsen and Second Princess Katrina McCollough. There were three young women participating this year in this annual event sponsored by the Ketchikan Lions Club. - More...
Tuesday - July 04, 2006

Ketchikan Citizens Recognized for Volunteer Service - Fifteen Ketchikan citizens were recently recognized for their volunteer service by Alaska Community Services. The event took place at the Ketchikan Senior Center on Thursday, June 15th. - More...
Thursday - June 22, 2006

Creative Patriot Spreads Patriotism One Roof At A Time By DICK KAUFFMAN - Scott LoBaido is a "Creative Patriot" and this New York City artist is on a mission - a "once in a life-time" mission to spread patriotism across the country. With an unmistakable New York City accent, LoBaido described how he is traveling the states to paint the American flag on one rooftop of one building in each of the 50 states. "Fifty roof tops, fifty flags, fifty states," said LoBaido. And Ketchikan is LoBaido's 19th stop and now a part of LoBaido's mission. - More...
Wednesday - June 21, 2006

President of Republic of Singapore Visits Ketchikan By Marie L. Monyak - People from all over the world and from all walks of life find Ketchikan an attractive place to visit as was demonstrated Saturday morning when Ketchikan received an unannounced visit by the President of the Republic of Singapore who arrived aboard the Princess Cruise Line ship the Coral Princess. - More...
Monday - June 19, 2006

PSSA Makes Living 'Off-the-Grid' More Comfortable By DICK KAUFFMAN - Living and working off-the-grid in remote areas of southeast Alaska has its challenges. However, with the development of a new Ketchikan-based company that provides independent power systems as well as fuel supplies, living and working in remote areas has become more comfortable. - More...
Friday - June 16, 2006

State Settles Wrongful Death Claim Against Ketchikan Correctional Center - According to Seattle civil rights attorneys, Ed Budge and Erik Heipt, the State of Alaska has paid $573,000 to settle a federal civil rights lawsuit involving the death of a young man in the state-run Ketchikan Correctional Center. Thirty-one-year old Troy Wallace died in his jail cell during the early morning hours of July 24, 2004. The lawsuit alleged that jail employees, including corrections officers, were negligent and deliberately indifferent to Wallace's serious medical needs in the days and hours leading up to his death. Alaska Attorney General David W. Márquez approved the settlement. - More...
Thursday - June 15, 2006

Local Non-profit Works To Preserve Ketchikan's History BY MARIE MONYAK - There's a non-profit organization in Ketchikan that works quietly, maintains a low profile and performs services that assist both local residents and tourists alike. There are several notable historic buildings in Ketchikan that have benefited from this group's attention such as the White Cliff Elementary School and the Clover Pass School. - More...
Thursday - June 15, 2006

Gotelli Claims First Place In Derby With 50.5 Pound King; Unofficial 59th Annual King Salmon Derby Winners Announced By M.C. KAUFFMAN - The 59th Annual King Salmon Derby sponsored by Ketchikan CHARR is now officially over and the unofficial results have been released. - More...
Monday - June 12, 2006

Petasek takes lead with 44.4 pound king at end of derby's 2nd week By M.C. KAUFFMAN - By the end of the second week of the 59th Annual King Salmon Derby, Lyle Petasek took the lead with a 44.4 pound king salmon pushing Misty Pattison to second place on the ladder. Petasek's king was weighed in at the Knudson Cove Marina. - More...
June 06, 2006

Pattison holds lead with 41.9 pound king at end of derby's 1st week By M.C. KAUFFMAN - Leading unofficially at the close Monday evening of the first weekend of the 59th King Salmon Derby is long time Ketchikan resident Misty Pattison. Pattison moved into the unofficial first place position with a 41.9 pound king. Pattison said she was very exicited about sitting in the first place spot on the derby ladder and plans to keep fishing until the derby ends. She said she caught her big king around Pup Island which is north of Ketchikan and near the Knudson Cove Marina. - More...
Tuesday - May 30, 2006

TAILGATE PARTY - KETCHIKAN STYLE! BY MARIE MONYAK- It isn't every day that professional ball players show up in Ketchikan but early Friday morning that's exactly what happened. As the Holland America cruise ship Westerdam pulled into port at 7:00 AM, local fans lined the dock waiting to see members of the Seattle Seahawks. - More...
Saturday - May 27, 2006

Over 100 Participate In Annual Walk America Event BY MARIE MONYAK - The March of Dimes earlier this month held their annual Walk America fundraiser to support research and programs to help fight premature births that affect half a million babies every year in our country. The wind and rain didn't discourage the participants as over 100 people, many with their dogs, lined up at the A & P Market to get their shirts and check lists. - More...
Friday - May 26, 2006

Good Luck... But the Wrong Weekend! By M.C. KAUFFMAN - With the 59th Annual Ketchikan CHARR King Salmon Derby starting Saturday, Wade Jardine said he had good luck, but on the wrong weekend! - More...
Tuesday - May 23, 2006

Let's Talk By VALERIE HENDEL - Imagine a group of adults and young people of various ages sitting around a table having a discussion. The picture shouldn't be an odd one yet it is. Now imagine a room full of adults and young people sitting around many tables and talking for hours. That was the picture on Wednesday, May 17th as sixty people gathered at Kayhi Commons for "Let's Talk!" - More..
Monday - May 22, 2006

JAZZ NIGHT A CELEBRATION By VALERIE HENDEL - Ever wonder why we use the same words to describe food and jazz? On Tuesday, May 16th, The Jerry Galley Memorial Scholarship Concert was performed at Kayhi. The scholarship fund, established in Spring 2000, raises money to help Kayhi seniors pursue the arts in college. Roy McPherson, Director and one of the Coordinators for Jazz Night, introduced the evening as one of "celebration." Chris Peabody, friend of the late Jerry Galley, described Jerry as "a man of action" and ushered in an evening of lively instrumentals. - More...
Friday - May 19, 2006

Spring Wine Tasting Event Helps Raise Funds For Scholarships BY MARIE MONYAK - Recently the Ketchikan CHARR (Cabaret, Hotel, Restaurant and Retailers Association) held their annual Spring Wine Tasting Event at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau located downtown on the cruise ship dock. The steady flow of people attending the festive event indicated that it would be another successful fundraising program for CHARR. - More..
May 19, 2006

Fill'er Up With Waste Vegetable Oil By MARIE L. MONYAK - Fuel Prices on the Rise ~ Petroleum Production Tax ~ Hybrid Cars ~ Drilling in ANWR ~ Exxon's CEO's $400 Million Retirement Package ~ Biodiesel ~ Energy Crisis ~ Fuel Shortage ~ and on and on. Fuels, primarily fossil fuels and all related topics are the fodder for countless headlines in recent weeks. Americans are raging and they want answers and solutions. - More...
Tuesday AM - May 09, 2006

Chamber Members Tour Newest IFA Ferry By MARIE L. MONYAK - The members of the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce attending last week's luncheon on Wednesday were treated to a tour and delicious lunch aboard the newest Inter-Island Ferry, the M/V Stikine. Funded by federal and state grants and built by Dakota Creek Industries in Anacortes, Washington, the Stikine cost $17 million; several more than its sister ship the M/V Prince of Wales. The higher cost of steel and additional features accounted for the difference in costs; the most noticeable is the enclosed bridge wings which will allow for safer docking and undocking. A third generator and more powerful bow thruster are the other upgrades on the Stikine. - More...
Tuesday AM - May 09, 2006

Ketchikan Gymnastics Club Hosts Annual Exhibition - The Ketchikan Gymnastics Club (KGC) held their 2006 Gym Show and Award Ceremony last week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. The KGC is a non-profit organization governed by a board of directors and managed by Head Coach Rhiann Golder with the help of assistant coaches Aliyah Pipal, Alison Kelly and Kim Cole.
- More...
May 07, 2006

Ketchikan Harley Riders' Hold 16th Annual Spring Event By VALERIE HENDEL - There was rain and there was hail but that wasn't thunder that rumbled through Ketchikan, Alaska over the weekend. The Ketchikan Harley Riders' Association welcomed riders from Wrangell, POW, and Prince Rupert for their 16th Annual Spring Opener held at Whipple Creek. The Opener provides an opportunity for Riders to gather to see old friends. It also brings awareness to the Association and helps to raise money for community charity. - More...
Thursday - May 04, 2006

Airlift Northwest upgrading local services BY MARIE MONYAK - Wednesday evening Airlift Northwest, an emergency air medical transportation organization, hosted the monthly After Hours event at Steamers Restaurant. After Hours is a once a month networking activity sponsored by the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce to allow members to better understand the workings of the business hosting the event in a casual and relaxed setting accompanied by light refreshments and hor de' oeuvres. - More...
May 04, 2006

Dream Of Establishing Paintball Club Comes True BY MARIE MONYAK - At 19 years of age, local resident Ty Rettke had a dream to share something he was passionate about with other teenagers and young adults in the Ketchikan area. He had no lofty goals of finding a cure for cancer or establishing world peace, it was something much simpler and easily attainable, or so he thought. He wanted to share his love of paintballing and begin a club. - More...
May 04, 2006

Best Western Landing Hotel Holds Festive Grand Opening BY MARIE MONYAK - Likely the biggest party in Ketchikan this past Saturday evening was held at the brand new North Court of The Best Western Landing Hotel, graciously hosted by owners Kay Sims and Terry Wanzer. The festive grand opening celebration began at 5:00 PM and it wasn't long till both the Sunny Point main banquet room and the adjacent reception room were filled with curious residents happy to get a first look at the striking new addition and congratulate both Sims and Wanzer on their newest enterprise. - More...
May 01, 2006

Petroleum Production Tax: Important to Know The Issues Says Rep. Samuels BY MARIE MONYAK - Representative Ralph Samuels (R) of Anchorage began his presentation to the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce last Wednesday by reading Article 8 of the State Constitution stating "It is the policy of the State to encourage the settlement of its land and the development of its resources by making them available for maximum use consistent with the public interest". - More...
May 01, 2006

Discovering the Nature of Wilderness BY MARIE MONYAK - The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center presented their last Friday Night Insight Program of the season until next fall last Friday evening. The scheduled program was "The Nature of Wilderness" presented by U.S. Forest Service Wilderness Kayak Ranger Susan Bliss Jenkins of the Ketchikan Misty Fiords Ranger District. - More...
May 01, 2006

Ketchikan's first woman career firefighter hired by KFD By VALERIE HENDEL - - On May 1st, 2006, Gretchen Skillings will begin her duties as a City of Ketchikan career firefighter becoming Ketchikan's first woman to be hired as a firefighter. No stranger to the department, Skillings has served for thirteen years as an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) and five years as a dispatcher. She has been an active part of volunteer firefighter service since June 2004 and received her Firefighter II certification last year. - More...
Thursday - April 27, 2006

Saxman Ferry Terminal Construction Could Begin Next Year BY MARIE MONYAK - A showing of the preliminary designs of the Saxman Seaport AMHS Ferry Terminal and updates on the progress of the project was the topic at a public open house at the Saxman Tribal House on Monday evening. Approximately twenty people attended to hear from the project staff from the State of Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, and from the Federal Highway Administration. - More...
April 25, 2006

Holy Name Catholic School Holds Open House BY MARIE MONYAK - Holy Name Catholic School located at 433 Jackson Street held their open house last Tuesday so that interested parents could explore the options available to them to fulfill their children's educational needs for the upcoming school year. - More...
April 24, 2006

Discovering Invasive Plants of Ketchikan BY MARIE MONYAK - Just in time for the spring planting season, the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center Friday Night Insight Program hosted the presentation; Invasive Plants in Ketchikan ~ Nip them in the Bud! The guest speaker was Pam Fletcher, U.S. Forest Service Ecologist for the Tongass National Forest. - More...
April 24, 2006

A Tail of Hearts United For Animals In Need BY MARIE MONYAK - In Ketchikan, people tell and retell stories and occasionally they become distorted in the retelling. Locals and tour guides alike repeat the misinformation until it becomes accepted as fact. For years stories have been told about the Blackwell's that live on the corner of Deermount and Fair Streets next to City Park and much of it has been incorrect. - More...
April 21, 2006

SSRAA Enhances Salmon Production in Southeast Alaska BY MARIE MONYAK - Mike Round, Assistant General Manager of the Southern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association (SSRAA), treated the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday to an informative and entertaining presentation on the SSRAA operations, primarily Neets Bay. - More...
April 21, 2006

Discovering Songbirds BY MARIE MONYAK - In keeping with the theme "Alaska Hummingbird Festival," the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center's Friday Night Insight program last week offered an enlightening presentation by Gwen Baluss. - More...
April 19, 2006

Young Artists Create "Bird Art Exhibit" BY MARIE MONYAK - The Eleventh Annual Alaska Hummingbird Festival in Ketchikan has been ongoing since the beginning of the month and one of the delightful events is the Ketchikan High School Art Class "Bird Art Exhibit" at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. - More...
April 19, 2006

Youth Friendly Award Presented to Ketchikan Business BY MARIE MONYAK - Acting on behalf of Spirit of Youth in Wasilla, Karen Eakes, Executive Director of PATCHWorks in Ketchikan, presented Russell Thomas, owner of Alaska Sportsfishing with a Youth Friendly Business Award on Wednesdasy April 12th during the Greater Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Spirit of Youth promotes opportunities for youth involvement in the community and recognizes them in the media. - More...
April 18, 2006

Juried Art Show Attracts 64 Entries BY MARIE MONYAK - The Eleventh Annual Hummingbird Festival in Ketchikan had been well underway for several weeks when the Juried Art Show held its opening reception this past Friday at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau on Front Street. - More...
April 18, 2006

Sergeant Lisa Thompson Deploying To Afghanistan BY MARIE MONYAK - Lisa Thompson, Lisa Thompson, Hmmmm. Like most people in Ketchikan, you hear a name, you recognize it, but for the life of you, you can't put a face with the name or remember where you heard it. Now you remember, you've seen her name countless times as a copyrighted photographer right here in SitNews. - More...
April 13, 2006

Discovering Gardening BY MARIE MONYAK - This past week's Friday Night Insight Program at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center drew a large crowd to hear local horticulturist Jeannie Blackmore talk about her personal experiences as a gardener in Ketchikan. - More...
April 12, 2006

Voters Say "Yes" to Port Revenue Bond BY MARIE MONYAK - According to unofficial election results released Tuesday evening, with a 28% voter turnout, voters have said "Yes" to Proposition NO. 1 allowing the City to issue up to $38,500,000 in Port Revenue Bonds. The revenue bonds will be used to fund the reconfiguration of existing cruise ship facilities and upland imporvements along the Ketchikan waterfront. - More...
April 12, 2006

 Holy Name Catholic School Dedicates New Playground BY MARIE MONYAK - It was wet and windy Wednesday for the ribbon cutting and dedication of the new playground at Holy Name Catholic School. As the weekly school Mass let out, the Holy Name school children filed into the covered patio area to await Father Pat Travers who would be offering a prayer and blessing the new playground and equipment before cutting the traditional ribbon. More...
April 10, 2006

Musings: The Soul Of Landscape BY MARIE MONYAK - "Musings: The Soul Of Landscape" is a soothing display of the works of Ketchikan artist James Mix. This past Friday was the opening reception for Mix at the Mainstay Gallery where guests were treated to this Renaissance mans interpretation of the nature that surrounds us daily. More...
April 10, 2006

Discovering The Geology of Ketchikan BY MARIE MONYAK - Road builders blast them, children throw them, gardeners curse at them and collectors pick them up. What are they? Why rocks of course! And as most local know, Revillagigedo Island is one large mass protruding from the ocean which earned it the knick-name "The Rock." - More...
April 06, 2006

Saturday Market Rapidly Gaining Popularity in Ketchikan BY MARIE MONYAK - There was no shortage of excitement at the Plaza Mall this past Saturday as shoppers were surrounded by clowns, balloons, games, raffles, food sellers and craft booths. - More...
April 06, 2006

Annual Expo Event Offered Something For Everyone BY MARIE MONYAK - At a time of year when most local residents were about to go stark raving mad from months of dark, dreary, rain soaked days it finally arrived - at long last the light at the end of the tunnel - the First City Expo! Hosted by The Local Paper and KFMJ Radio, the Expo was held this past weekend at Ketchikan High School to the delight of many. - More...
April 04, 2006

Skinner Sales and Service Celebrates Grand Opening; Skinners recognized for contributions to community BY MARIE MONYAK - Driving past 4950 North Tongass Avenue this past Friday evening, seeing flags and balloons, residents would have thought there was a party going on at the Chevrolet, Buick, Subaru Dealership, and they would have been right. - More...
April 03, 2006

Avoiding consumer fraud, deceptive practices and identity theft BY MARIE MONYAK - The Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce held their weekly luncheon this past Wednesday and due to unforeseen circumstances the invited guest speaker could not attend. - More...
March 31, 2006

Fostergrandparents Needed To Share Wisdom With Children BY MARIE MONYAK - If you are a senior, 60 years or older and would like to share your wisdom and experience with children or young people right here in Ketchikan, the Foster Grandparents program is for you. - More...
March 22, 2006

Griese's Latest Book About Gillam's Historic and Ill-fated flight BY MARIE MONYAK - Long time Alaskan resident and author Arnold Griese of Fairbanks was in Ketchikan last week to talk about his latest book; Bush Pilot, a biography of the early Alaskan aviator Harold Gillam, Sr. The presentation held at the Ted Ferry Civic Center was sponsored by the Tongass Historical Society. - More...
March 21, 2006

A Children's Museum in Ketchikan? BY MARIE MONYAK - The guest speaker at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center's Friday Night Insight Program March 17th was Dawn Rauwolf who gave her charming and enthusiastic presentation, "A Children's Museum in Ketchikan?" - More...
March 20, 2006

Developer Shares Vision For Historical Waterfront Storage BY MARIE MONYAK - It rapidly became apparent at the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce's luncheon last Wednesday that the expected presentation by David Hauck of Laguna Beach, California would be anything but usual judging by the size of the large crowd, the number of media present and the appearance of the City Mayor. - More...
March 20, 2006

USCG Auxiliary Wants You! BY MARIE MONYAK - The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary wants you, men and women alike! Do you believe in serving your community? Would you like to be actively involved in saving lives? Would you like to increase your personal skills, not just in boating but in leadership and administration? - More...
March 20, 2006

10th Annual St. Patrick's Day Auction raises over $55,000 BY MARIE MONYAK - The Luck 'o the Irish was with the First City Council on Cancer (FCCC) this last Saturday when they raised over $55,000 at their 10th Annual St. Patrick's Day Auction held at the Ted Ferry Civic Center. - More...
Wednesday - March 15, 2006

Discovering traditions and customs BY MARIE MONYAK - The Friday Night Insight Program sponsored by the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center offered a pleasant surprise for those in attendance this past Friday. The scheduled presentation had been cancelled and in its place was the opportunity to take a guided tour of the Discovery Center instead. - More...
Monday - March 13, 2006

Over 35 Employers Participated in 7th Annual Job Fair BY MARIE MONYAK - Over 35 employers were represented at the Plaza Mall this past Friday during the 7th Annual Job Fair sponsored by State of Alaska, Department of Workforce Development. The mezzanine floor of the Plaza Mall was lined with booths staffed by local employers displaying their services or products on colorful displays. - More...
Monday - March 13, 2006

Unusable donated items cause huge financial burden BY MARIE MONYAK - The Salvation Army is an international non-profit social service organization that has been in existence for over a century. Just some of the services offered in Ketchikan by our local chapter are disaster relief, holiday assistance, worship services, emergency assistance, services for the aging, the Christmas Kettle campaign, food and nutrition services and the soup kitchen. - More...
Saturday - March 11, 2006

Losses in sales tax could result in mill rate increase; Chamber hears more about Port Expansion Project BY MARIE MONYAK - Councilman Lew Williams was the invited guest speaker at the weekly luncheon for the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce Wednesday. William's presentation was about the Port Expansion Project and he provided those in attendance with a handout containing a great deal of statistical information on Ketchikan's sales and property tax, the general fund and community agency funding. - More...
Thursday - March 09, 2006

Never to young to learn life-saving lessons BY MARIE MONYAK - Over a dozen preschool age children, accompanied by a parent, took advantage of an exciting free tour of the Ketchikan Fire Department sponsored by the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Parks and Recreation Preschool Program on Tuesday. - More...
Wednesday - March 08, 2006

Assets necessary for children to thrive BY MARIE MONYAK - The Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce luncheon this past Wednesday provided those in attendance with not just one but two presentations. The invited guest speaker was Karen Eakes, long time Ketchikan resident and Executive Director of PATCHWorks. The First City Players also provided the Chamber members and their guests with a short preview of their upcoming musical comedy "Chaps." - More...
Saturday - March 04, 2006

Ketchikan's State Parks, Community Participation Needed BY MARIE MONYAK - The cold temperature this past Friday may have kept some people from attending the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center's Friday Night Insight Program on "Our State Parks by the Ketchikan Advisory Board." There were many little known facts about our State Parks presented and a plea for support from the Advisory Board. - More...
Monday - February 27, 2006

Employers Can File Unemployment Tax Online BY MARIE MONYAK - Bruce L. Garrison, a field tax auditor from the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Employment Security Division, was the speaker at this week's Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Garrison was present to discuss on-line filing, rates, options and the background of the Unemployment Tax Program. - More...
Saturday - February 25, 2006

Discovering Big Game Field Care BY MARIE MONYAK - Every Friday evening, October through April, the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center sponsors a Friday Night Insight Program from 7-8 pm. This is a free audiovisual and speaker program held in their comfortable theatre on subjects concerning Alaska's ecosystem, wildlife, natural resources, native cultures and public lands. - More...
Monday - February 23, 2006

Air Ambulance Meets Critical Care Needs of Remote Alaskans BY MARIE MONYAK - Speaking before the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce last Wednesday was Dr. Eric Stirling, owner and medical director of Guardian Flight, Inc. - More...
Monday - February 20, 2006

The Trails of Ketchikan BY MARIE MONYAK - Trails, trails and more trails. Ketchikan has no shortage of trails. So the proverbial sixty-four thousand dollar question isjust how many hiking trails are there in Ketchikan? How many can you come up with? - More...
Friday - February 17, 2006

Elizabeth Peratrovich Day: Honoring Our Youth BY MARIE MONYAK - In 1988 the Alaska Legislature established February 16th as "Elizabeth Peratrovich Day" to commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Anti-Discrimination Act. Every year Alaskans celebrate the day and remember Peratrovich's efforts to achieve equality and justice for all Alaskans of every race, creed and ethnic background. - More...
Thursday - February 16, 2006

Quilting In The Rain XV BY MARIE MONYAK - And the winner is... Pink Lemonade! And we aren't talking about a beverage but rather the Best of Show Winner in the 15th Annual "Quilting in the Rain" Show presented by the Rainy Day Quilters. There's plenty more news about the winners at the end of the story but first a little bit about the Rainy Day Quilters themselves. - More...
Wednesday - February 15, 2006

Award Winning Author Visits Ketchikan BY MARIE MONYAK - The Ketchikan Public Library recently hosted author Pam Houston who gave a short presentation and a reading from her first and most recent novel Sighthound which was published in January of 2005.
- More...
Monday - February 13, 2006

The Gift of Education BY MARIE MONYAK - Even the wind and rain didn't keep the community away from the new Fawn Mountain School's open house on Tuesday evening. Teachers, administrators, parents and children showed up to tour the new school and enjoy the refreshments that were served while the Cape Fox dancers performed. - More...
Thursday - February 09, 2006

Flash Back BY MARIE MONYAK - Flash Back, the 20th Annual Wearable Arts and Runway Fashion Show, sponsored by the Ketchikan Area Arts and Humanities Council was held this past weekend at the Ted Ferry Civic Center. Those lucky enough to be in attendance were treated to an enchanting show of glitz, glamour and glitter. - More...
Tuesday - February 07, 2006

Homeless Shelter Needs Community Support BY MARIE MONYAK - If you're an old time Ketchikan resident, you may recall that the Public Health Clinic used to be across the street from the American Legion at 628 Park Avenue. In the early 1980's that building became the Ketchikan Homeless Shelter and remains so today. - More...
Friday - February 03, 2006

MAYOR ISSUES PROCLAMATION FOR DAY OF REMEMBRANCE BY MARIE MONYAK - At the beginning of Thursday night's City Council meeting, Ketchikan Mayor Bob Weinstein issued a proclamation declaring February 3rd as a Day of Remembrance for Steve "Butch" Freeman. - More...
Friday - February 03, 2006

Ketchikan For A Positive Economy & Keeping Kids In School BY MARIE MONYAK - Invited guest speakers at the Ketchikan Greater Chamber of Commerce luncheon meeting last Wednesday were Mike Harpold, a Ketchikan School Board member, and Superintendent Harry Martin. Both spoke before the Chamber about keeping kids in school. - More...
Monday - January 30, 2006

Wreckage of Jet Removed From Crash Site; Power expected to be restored Friday BY MARIE MONYAK - By Thursday night, Ketchikan Public Utilities (KPU) had still not turned the utilities back on at the Martin Street Mobile Home Park, the scene of a fatal jet crash and mobile home fire. According to Dave Martin, the incident Public Information Officer (PIO), KPU was expected to have the power restored by Thursday afternoon and the six displaced families returned to their dwellings. - More...
Friday - January 27, 2006

Jet Crashes In Ketchikan, Pilot Killed By Marie L. Monyak - A Czechoslovakian made, but American owned, L-39 MS Jet crashed in Ketchikan on a snowy Wednesday afternoon killing the pilot. The jet crashed at approximately 12:50 PM into a wooded hill where Martin Street ends, adjacent to the A&P grocery store and a small mobile home park. - More...
Thursday - January 26, 2006

VISTA Volunteer talks about service in Ketchikan BY MARIE MONYAK- Americorp VISTA volunteer, Jessica Reveri, who has been in Ketchikan for the past eleven months, spoke before the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce at their luncheon Wednesday. - More...
Thursday - January 26, 2006

Nothing Says Home Like The Rain BY MARIE MONYAK- When you've been in the arid desert with temperatures well above 100 degrees, nothing says you're home like the rain, good old wet Ketchikan rain and there was plenty of it to greet the seven Alaska Army National Guardsmen returning home from Iraq Sunday night. - More...
Monday - January 23, 2006

Training and Volunteers Essential In Providing Fire & Emergency Services BY MARIE MONYAK- After 9/11, firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) personnel became the unsung heroes of America. Ask any firefighter or EMT and they'll say they're just doing their job, but how many jobs involve saving lives at the risk of their own? - More...
Monday - January 23, 2006

Prince of Wales Island Offers Beauty And Recreation BY MARIE MONYAK- Dennis Benson, an amiable fellow with the lengthy title of US Forest Service Recreation, Lands, Minerals & Heritage Staff Officer for Prince of Wales Island was the guest speaker for the Friday Night Insight Program at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center this past Friday evening. - More...
Monday - January 23, 2006

Residents' Input In Newtown Development Plan Too Hot For Some; However, Hope Shown for Opening Dialog BY MARIE MONYAK- Invited guests wouldn't typically expect to be treated in an ornery or inhospitable manner, however two guests speaking before the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce Wednesday faced a scorching verbal crossfire from a chamber member interrupting their presentation. - More...
Friday - January 20, 2006

Chamber Presents Community Awards, Installs New Officers; Governor Murkowski Keynote Speaker BY MARIE MONYAK- The Ted Ferry Civic Center was the site of the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce 39th Annual Awards Banquet and Installation of Officers and Directors this past Saturday evening. - More...
Thursday - January 19, 2006

Ketchikan Group Explores the Stikine River BY MARIE MONYAK- The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center hosts a free presentation with a guest speaker every Friday evening from 7 to 8 PM. There are a variety of topics covered, both educational and entertaining. Most presentations are centered around Alaska's environment, wildlife, natural resources, native culture and more. - More...
Tuesday - January 17, 2006

Ketchikan Could Become The Scouting Hub for Southern Southeast BY MARIE MONYAK- This week's speaker at the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce luncheon was Amy Russell, an engaging young woman who has recently taken over the position of District Executive for the newly formed Scouting Council. The Council will serve Southern Southeast Alaska and will be headquartered in Ketchikan. - More...
Friday - January 13, 2006

Free-Ride Program Helps Bring In New Year Safely; Winners of CHARR's Free-Ride Raffle Announced BY MARIE MONYAK- "Don't drive drunk it's really, really stupid!" KJ Harris, owner of KJ's Raven's Roost, says it best. The police have another way of saying it... "You have the right to remain silent." - More...
Friday - January 13, 2006

Round Island: A Wilderness Adventure BY MARIE MONYAK- Is the plural of walrus, walrii? What do walrus use their tusks for? How fast can a walrus swim? What state can lay claim to the largest state park in the nation? - More...
Monday - January 09, 2006

Director of Public Safety addresses Chamber BY MARIE MONYAK- Speaking at the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce luncheon Wednesday, keynote speaker Rich Leipfert announced current changes being implemented by the Department of Public Safety. The father of three young women, Leipfert came to Ketchikan in 1998 and has been the Director of Public Safety since 2004, overseeing both the city Police and the Fire Departments for Ketchikan. - More...
Friday - January 06, 2006

New Year's Resolutions 2006 BY MARIE MONYAK- A fresh new year, a fresh new start. Many people across the nation share that view and decide to make resolutions normally designed to improve their lives or the lives of those around them. - More...
Monday - January 02, 2006

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS BY MARIE MONYAK- All I want for Christmas is a new toilet, and I don't mean just any toilet but the grandpappy of all toilets. Ok, laugh if you will, then allow me to explain. I hate my bathroom, it's small, basic and unimaginative. - More...
Friday - December 23, 2005

Ketchikan VFW Provides Many Services & Activities; Hosting First Annual Teen Dance on New Year's Eve BY MARIE MONYAK - "We're more than just a bar, and we want people to know that," said Ken Horn, Commander of Ketchikan's Veteran's of Foreign Wars, Post 4352. Horn, a Navy veteran who came to Ketchikan in 2000, is married, with five children. Employed at our local Coast Guard base by the Department of Homeland Security, Horn first served as the Senior Vice Commander for the VFW from 2002 to 2003, eventually taking over the office of Post Commander which he holds today. - More...
Tuesday - December 20, 2005

Student Nurses Pinned In Traditional Ceremony BY MARIE MONYAK - Seven Ketchikan women took part in the traditional candle lighting and pinning ceremony held at the Holy Name Parish Hall Friday evening, December 16th. These soon to graduate student nurses have attended the University of Alaska Anchorage, School of Nursing, in conjunction with the University of Southeast Ketchikan. - More...
Sunday - December 18, 2005

Raven's Brew, A Ketchikan Success Story BY MARIE MONYAK - On a hill north of town sits a nondescript blue building with no signage whatsoever. From the instant I turned the doorknob to enter the Raven's Brew building, I was pleasantly engulfed in the aroma of fresh roasted coffee. I was in a coffee drinker's paradise, transported to a coffee mecca. Whatever it was, my olfactory senses were alive like never before. - More...
Tuesday - December 13, 2005

Over $20,000 raised for the Sara Schroeder Fund BY MARIE MONYAK - If there are eight million stories in the naked city, then surely there were eight stories in Ketchikan on Tuesday night, December 6th, the night of the Sara Schroeder Fund Raiser at the Moose Lodge. - More...
Thursday - December 08, 2005

Winter Art Walk BY MARIE MONYAK - Parking in the downtown area was scarce on the evening of Friday, December 2nd for the annual Winter Art Walk, which was coordinated by the Ketchikan Area Arts and Humanities Council. Difficulty in finding a parking space proved to be an indicator of a very successful event. Local men and women, bundled in layers of wool, fur and down, didn't appear bothered by the frigid cold nor the parking challenges. - More...
Monday - December 05, 2005

A Gift of Life BY MARIE MONYAK - What would you give to save a life? Would you sacrifice your own life for someone else? What about donating an organ? And what if the person in need wasn't even a family member, but just a friend? What if it happened, not just in theory, but in reality? How willing would you be to "go under the knife" to donate an organ for a friend? That's just what Kim Kirby did for Sara Schroeder. And that's just the beginning of a long journey that these two exceptional women embarked upon back in the spring of 2004. - More...
Friday - December 02, 2005

Black Friday BY MARIE MONYAK - Retailers have dubbed the busiest shopping day of the year as Black Friday. You would think they could have selected a more cheerful, uplifting moniker considering that they'll be counting their profits well into the wee hours. Black Friday sounds like a stock market crash, a funeral, the end of the world, or a war; however, it is a postive day for retail businesses as reportedly many will make 40% of their profits between now and the end of the year. - More...
November 24, 2006

We have much to be thankful for.... BY MARIE MONYAK - Today is Thanksgiving. Ketchikan's high winds and heavy rains can't dampen the spirits of Ketchikanites on this annual holiday - for there is much to be thankful for on this day and everyday. - More...
Thursday - November 24, 2005

Getting Offf the ROCK BY MARIE MONYAK - Saying it's raining again isn't exactly news when you live in Ketchikan. Like everyone else this time of year, I need to get away from the rain, I need to get off the "Rock". Being unemployed just doesn't lend itself to such frivolous expenses like a vacation, even if it would save my sanity. - More...
Monday - November 21, 2006

For more stories, visit the SitNews' Archives at:
http://www.sitnews.us/SitnewsArchives/archives.html

SitNews
Stories In The News
Ketchikan, Alaska