The Skagway News - March 27, 2020 edition

THE SKAGWAY NEWS.

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

March 27, 2020

Page 1

March 27, 2020

Sk a g w ay, A l a s k a

Recall effort shifts With gatherings out of the question, Recall Dunleavy makes changes. PAGE 5

$1.50

Coping with the COVID-19 crisis See how neighbors are handling the change in lifestyle during the pandemic. PAGE 7

Check out the crossword A little something to do with friends over FaceTime. PAGE 10

Assembly chambers after COVID-19 mandates are put in place show attendees sitting at least six-feet apart. This is a stark contrast to the inset picture from two weeks (photos by Melinda Munson) earlier at the special assembly meeting on March 11.

MOS mandates residents shelter-in-place, new self-isolation rules

By Melinda Munson and Gretchen Wehmhoff Assembly members voted reduce exposure by staying at unanimously in Tuesday’s home, not physically going to special meeting to approve work and having one person a shelter-in-place directive, doing their shopping and othwhich took effect Wednesday er activities that include close at 10 p.m. and will remain in contact with others.”

Critical businesses may replace for at least 14 days.

Skagway, which is geo- main open. These businesses graphically isolated, current- include grocery stores, hardly has no cases of COVID-19. ware stores, liquor stores, dispensaries, “We’re one of the last plac- marijuana es in Alaska that doesn’t have banks, laundromats, restaua problem with this, yet,” said rants (curbside pickup only), Assembly member Dustin hotels and utilities. Critical Stone when he urged the body businesses are expected to to enact a shelter-in-place maintain social distancing recommendation immediate- with employees and commuly and not wait for Skagway’s nity members.

Residents are encouraged first case of COVID-19.

Resolution 20-11R requests to “get fresh air without conthat “all Skagway residents tacting others.”

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As of March 27, the Alaska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reported 85 confirmed cases of COVID-19. One Alaskan, who was in Washington State, died from the virus.

At Tuesday’s meeting, the assembly also voted unanimously to pass Resolution 20-09R, directing anyone returning to Skagway from outside of Alaska or “that came from the City and Borough of Juneau, the Ketchikan Gateway Borough or any community with known cases of COVID-19” to self-isolate for 14 days. Self-isolation includes avoiding family and friends, the grocery store, the post office and the clinic.

BLOTTER PAGE 10 CLASSIFIED PAGE 11

All self-isolating community members should notify the Dahl Memorial Clinic (DMC) during business hours at 907-983-2255. Those experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of

breath should call the clinic’s emergency number at 907983-2025.

The MOS has two rooms available for anyone unable to self-isolate. Local busisee MOS page 12

School cancelled another four weeks; tips to help parents and kids cope

By Melinda Munson The scene outside Skagway School on March 16 was eerie. Musical instruments, sneakers, and other personal items were lined up against school walls. Teachers in medical gloves carried out brown bags of academic work, marked with students’ names and handed them to

parents when they pulled into the parking lot. Everyone kept their distance.

“This feels so weird and I don’t like it,” said Josh Coughran, Skagway School superintendent, as he reflected on the empty building.

Due to the increasing severity of COVID-19, Skagway canSee CLOSED page 9

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March 27, 2020

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Letters to the editor

The Skagway News.

Skagway’s First Newspaper

Christened in 1897, buried alive in 1904, and resurrected in 1978, The Skagway News is currently celebrating 43 years of reporting in Skagway and Dyea, Alaska, recording our Centennial years and beyond.

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By Mon. April 6, 2020 Vol. XLIII, No. 4 (875) March 27, 2020 Published biweekly Phone: (907) 983-2354 www.skagwaynews.com editor@skagwaynews.com sales@skagwaynews.com Publishers Melinda Munson Gretchen Wehmhoff Production Editor/Sales Gretchen Wehmhoff Managing Editor Melinda Munson Contributing Writers Jeff Brady Aly DeAngelus Larry Persily Circulation Assistants

Chris Kuhn, Danielle Authier

Editor Emeritus

William J. “Jeff” Brady

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The Skagway News is dedicated to continuing our role to share news and provide readers with stories and information of interest to Skagway and the region around us.

Due to the U.S. - Canada border closures and the 14day self-isolation mandate for travelers, we will not be able to provide a print copy

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

A note to our subscribers of the paper until COVID-19 you would normally find in is no longer a threat to our the SN including ads from community. our supportive advertisers, photos, updates and the beHOWEVER loved Fire & Police Blotter.

Please send us your email We will provide a PDF ver- address and name to sales@ sion of our paper to the com- skagwaynews.com to remunity via our website begin- ceive notice when the SN is ning Friday, March 27. The posted or to receive a PDF issue will include everything version via email during March and April.

If you know of a reader who does not have access to the digital version, please let us know by calling 907-9832354. We will print a large copy on our office printer and deliver it to their door.

During the months of March and April, we will be providing our online edition

(the PDF) free of charge. All print subscriptions include the digital version.

The online version will be available at www.skagwaynews.com. Continue to check our website and Facebook page for daily updates and new stories.

We hope to return to our printed paper AND online subscriptions as soon as we can.

Hang in there Skagway.

-Gretchen and Melinda

SEARHC works with Southeast to prepare for COVID-19 Dear Editor: As a long-time Southeast resident, I continue to be amazed by the resiliency and determination of our close-knit communities.

The preparation that is happening in advance of COVID-19 in our communities is strong. SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) continues to enact a comprehensive response plan. As SEARHC Chief Medical Officer, I maintain daily communication with the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services and other state authorities, including the governor’s office and the state emergency operations center.

We have implemented up-to-date screening protocols consistent with state and CDC guidance at all entrance points into our facilities. We have implemented off-site testing and screening sites for the safety of patients and staff. The criteria for laboratory testing include fever and cough, or shortness of breath, and possible exposure to the virus, although these criteria are being broadened in some details as the pandemic progresses. We have supplies to test available in all of our communities and will continue to test all patients who meet the criteria.

If you have any concern about yourself and you are ill, please contact us through our screening hotline (907-966-8799) and we will be glad to assist you. .

Routine optometry, dental care, patient travel, and elective surgeries are all temporarily suspended. Currently, primary care services remain available. The goal of these suspensions is to reduce the social contact and possible community spread of COVID-19. Our hospital and emergency room staff are trained and ready to care for all urgent and emergent medical problems 24-hours a day. We have been ramping up our plans, processes and staff to respond to any surge in sick patients. Our Nurse Advice Line is available to answer your questions 24-hours a day (1-800-613-0560).

We strongly encourage all people over the age of 60, and especially those with chronic illness, to not come into the clinic, and instead contact us by phone and we will arrange to meet your needs while you remain at home. We are committed to the health of our elders, and we are expanding access to this group via phone visits, FaceTime, telehealth and home visits. Our goal is to provide a deeper level of care for this high-risk group during the COVID-19 pandemic while keeping them out of clinics to avoid any possible exposure.

The most important part of our response to this crisis is you. This is not a time for panic. It is a time to listen to and comply with our requests for your safety and health, as we face a real challenge.

There has not been an equivalent health crisis in our country in living memory.

Alaska has the unique opportunity to minimize our own epidemic by greatly limiting our physical contact with others to prevent the spread of this virus. If you have traveled outside the state in the last 14 days, please physically isolate yourself from others and remain in your home for 14 days. If you become ill, do not go to work. If you are ill, stay home and isolate yourself from others and call our hotline: they will screen you for testing on the phone.

The healthcare system, city and other partners are doing everything they can to prepare for this pandemic. You are the most important part of the response. By being responsible and adopting safe behaviors such as hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and most importantly, maintaining social distance (over six feet), we can avert disaster. I implore each and every one of you to practice these essential prevention strategies every day.

More information on prevention and treatment of COVID-19 can be found at covid19.searhc.org. During regular business hours, questions can be answered at our COVID-19 Hotline for SEARHC communities and patients at 907-988-8799.

Sincerely, Dr. Elliot Bruhl MD

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THE SKAGWAY NEWS

March 27, 2020

Opinion

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Alaskans need the PFD now, say Permanent Fund defenders Alaska is at a critical point.

Oil prices have tanked. The threat from the Covid-19 virus is obvious. Our state’s fiscal and budgetary situation is in chaos.

The wealth Alaska has received in the last four decades from oil belonging to the citizens has largely been spent.

Looking back, it is easy to determine we spent too much of our non-renewable oil wealth and saved too little.

As a result of our spending habits, we face a fiscal crisis, one that is augmented by the Covid-19 virus, low oil prices and a volatile stock market.

Our organization, the Permanent Fund Defenders, believe prompt action is required to prevent Alaska from falling into economic catastrophe. Instead of managing this crisis, we fear our elected officials will accelerate the raids on the Permanent Fund earnings and deny Alaskan citizens the direct benefits of their savings account.

Now is the time for all Alaskans to stand together to defend the Permanent Fund and use our savings wealth for the benefit of every Alaskan. Wealthy Alaskans and

By Mary Catharine Martin

The area we chose to hike isn’t the most pristine in the Tongass. It was heavily logged and mined more than a hundred years ago, and lower down, many trees are small and sickly looking. But the trail leads up into vast, open, snowy meadows. For that reason, it’s a favorite of cross country skiers, snow machiners, and us — walkers who carry snow shoes. To the right are views of Grandchild Ridge, a line of moun-

those with power want to divert funding for the PFD into government so they do not have to pay taxes.

This hurts those among us with the smallest resources and builds the budget on the backs of the poor.

Given the crisis we face, the wise thing for our elected officials to do is to immediately make an additional PFD payment based on the 2019 application process.

Using the 2019 applicationprocess will allow for payment of $1,400 within sixty days, benefiting every eligible Alaskan and espe-

cially those most in need.

Payment of $1,400 to every Alaskan eligible for a PFD last year will provide a buffer to the economic uncertainty caused by low oil prices and the Covid-19 virus.

Alaskans need relief today, not down the trail. Governments like Hong Kong are making immediate cash payments to every adult resident to stimulate their economy, a move hailed by many economists as a sound way to protect the economy and reduce economic uncertainty.

Alaska’s people and our economy will benefit from an immediate payment to every person of $1,400. Payment now, based on the eligibility tains where we camped on requirements from last year one of my recent birthdays. when the PFD was reduced, To the left is Lynn Canal and the perpetual view of islands and water that any Southeast Alaska hiker knows.

As we walked, I thought about a few things, but foremost among them was how lucky we are to live in Alaska, where this kind of outdoors experience is even a possibility. Down south and in some more crowded locations, peo-

Alaskan solace - a positive viewpoint So many Alaskans are in crisis this month. Villages closed to outside travel. Restaurants and “non-essential” business shut down. People who have lost their jobs, who can’t find work. The growing threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.

And one of the most difficult things about this time of necessary social distancing is that if we, or our loved ones, are suffering, it’s harder, or impossible, to be with them and support them — except at a distance.

One of the biggest helps for me, in all of this, is the vast outdoors and clean air, water and land we have all around us in Alaska. I’ve spent too much time recently staring at my computer, reading news articles and worrying about people I love. So this last weekend, during an incredibly welcome blue sky day in Southeast Alaska, my partner, our baby, our dog and I set out on a walk into some sunlit, snowy alpine meadows in the Tongass National Forest.

See calendar page 6

Salmonberries hang fat from a bush on a recent summer.

Photo by Mary Catharine

will help Alaskans through these difficult times.

The earnings generated by the Permanent Fund belong to the people of Alaska, not the lobbyists and special interests trying to deny Alaskans from obtaining a responsible share of their saved wealth.

For too long, Alaska’s politicians have avoided making the hard choices that would put our state government spending on a sustainable trajectory.

Our politicians have spent too much, avoided tough calls on making government more accountable and toyed with various borrowing and fiscal incentive schemes that favor powerful special interests.

It’s past time for Alaska’s See PDF page 4

March 27, 2020

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NPS employee resigns amid COVID-19 concerns

By Melinda Munson

On March 18, Dustin Stone resigned as administrative support assistant at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park (KGR). It was a surprising move given he and his wife, Chelsey, are saving to purchase Skagway’s At The White House, a bed and

breakfast Chelsey operates.

“I am completely unemployed,” Stone said. “I didn’t plan on walking out the way that I did.”

After expressing discomfort to his supervisors on March 16 that national park employees were required to continue working after Skagway declared a state of emer-

(photo by Melinda Munson)

Work on a Broadway Street building, leased by Taiya River Arts from the National Park Service, ceased after the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park announced most employees would work from home beginning March 23 due to COVID-19 concerns.

gency, Stone said he was told the system takes time.

“Time was something I didn’t feel we had,” Stone said.

On March 17, the park closed all public access to its buildings. In a news release dated March 23, KGR announced employees would telework for the next fourteen calendar days. The release noted that “a small number of staff performing or supporting mission essential functions will continue to work with the park and park offices.”

Jason Verhaeghe, public information officer for KGR, said they never comment on the departure of an employee.

U.S. Interior Secretary David Bernhardt announced on March 18 that all national park fees would be waived.

“This small step makes it a little easier for the American public to enjoy the outdoors in our incredible National Parks,” Bernhardt said.

The decision was met with criticism from Phil Francis of the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks.

“It is irresponsible to urge people to visit national park sites when gathering at other public spaces is no longer considered safe,” Francis said. “We are concerned that the Secretary’s decision to waive entrance fees will lead to overcrowding and a greater risk to the health and well-being of our NPS employees and visitors.”

While Skagwegians can’t physically access any of their national park sites, Verhaeghe noteed there are virtual tours available at https://www.nps. gov/klgo/index.htm.

“We want folks to know there are still options to explore,” Verhaeghe said.” He added that interested parties can earn their junior ranger badge on-line at any age.

Stone is at peace with his decision to leave KGR. “I feel that I stood up for the community,” he said.

Given Skagway’s uncertain economic outlook with the Port of Seattle closed indefinitely, Stone is not currently looking for a job.

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

Feds near completion of Taiya River Valley study

By Aly De Angelus A 2017 multi-year study between the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and National Park Service (NPS) is in its final stage of peer review and will be available for public comment later this year. This study examines the changes of land features and water structures in the Taiya River Valley from West Creek downstream.

The goal is to guide park planning and resource management.

“The park is constantly investing in Dyea and trying to improve the offerings that we have in Dyea but we want to make sure that those managerial decisions are best guided by scientific data and the USGS data is going to be part of that,” Klondike Gold Rush (KGR) National Historical Park Public Information Officer, Jason Verhaeghe said.

NPS has postponed multiple projects to improve the Chilkoot Trail experience including a picnic area inside of the campground for hikers, new trail signs and a new area for day use and overnight parking on the trail in the upcoming years.

Annie Matsov, KGR chief of resources, said such interagency studies serve as a monitoring tool and are helpful for determining where future research projects can best be utilized.

Janet Curran is the primary investigator and lead hydrologist for the USGS. Her job was to assess geo-

morphology and hydromorphology (land and water characteristics), noting the time and amount of water and sediment delivery from West Creek and the Taiya River. Specifically, Curran noted how the water’s makeup and motion changed as a result of the various surrounding terrains.

Verhaeghe said NPS has seen some of these changes firsthand as a result of climate change and the natural breakdown of land and water structures.

“We, this past year, had to close a section of our Dyea townsite trails because that section of trail eroded into the river and is gone,” Verhaeghe said. “A few years back we had a report from one of the hiking floats that they were able to see a stove sticking out of the bank of the river. Luckily our archeology team were able to go and collect that, but the river chooses where it goes and if we are not accounting for that kind of dynamic change, we won’t be making the best decisions as possible.”

Curran and her team identified habitats, features and recreational experiences dependent on the Taiya River Valley and compared results to existing studies.

Verhaeghe said the complete study should be available to the public in the next six months.

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

March 27, 2020

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Recall Dunleavy campaign switches to mail-in signatures amid COVID-19

By Melinda Munson

Sean Layton, assistant manager of The Mountain Shop on 4th Avenue in Skagway, is certified to collect signatures in the second step of a statewide effort for Alaskans to vote to recall Gov. Mike Dunleavy.

Considering that 183 Skagwegians signed the recall application last fall, Layton expected to be busy in the shop this winter, signing up voters for the second phase, which is the recall petition to put the decision on a statewide ballot.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Recall Dunleavy, the non-profit leading the effort, has stopped

directing voters to signature locations. Instead of signing in person, interested parties can visit www.recalldunleavy.org/sign to request a signature booklet be sent to their household, where they can sign in the safety of their home.

“It is absolutely going to affect the overall process and the speed of that process,” Layton said.

In just four weeks and before shutdowns and social distancing became the norm, 30,200 Alaskans had signed the recall petition as of March 20. A total of 71,252 valid signatures of registered voters are needed to force the election.

PFD group calls for payment from PAGE 3

elected officials to put the citizens first and stop pandering to special interests.

Now is the time for the legislature to act by appropriating a portion of the earnings wealth to the people. The earnings wealth derived from the Permanent Fund belongs to the citizens of Alaska, not the special interests. Payment of an additional $1,400 as part of the 2019 PFD program will help individuals in our state and mitigate the economic impact caused by the Covid 19 virus and a diminished economy.

Going forward, what Alaskans deserve and need is aconstitutional amendment that permanently protects the Permanent Fund. The mineral resource wealth from our commons belongs to all Alaskans equally. Every Alaskandeserves an equal share of our wealth.

After the legislature appropriates a supplemental PFD payment, they need to put a constitutional amendment before the voters allowing for a sensible draw from Permanent Fund earnings, perpetual protection of the Permanent Fund from the ravages of inflation and a guaranteed payment of a dividend to every eligible Alaskan.

Permanent protection of the people’s wealth and payment of a dividend is hardly a radical proposition. After all, the wealth belongs to the people of Alaska, not the lobbyists and specialinterests trying to deny Alaskans from obtaining a responsible share of their saved wealth.

The authors, members of Permanent Fund Defenders, are Alaskans Clem Tillion, Rick Halford, Joe Geldhof, Dr. Jack Hickel and Juanita Cassellius.

Recall Dunleavy hopes to submit 15% more than the required amount by April 20 -- to cover disallowed signatures -- in time for a special election before the Aug. 18 primary. If they miss the April timeline for a special election, the recall would go on either the primary election or the Nov. 3 general election.

Those who receive the recall petition booklets will be provided stamped envelopes to return the petitions, which organizers would like back within one week. Only registered voters should sign. Last fall’s application signatures will not count toward the petition.

Jeff Brady, of Dyea, a Recall Dunleavy volunteer, said “easily half of who usually turns out for an election” signed the first recall application in Skagway. Brady and Layton currently have 115 petition signatures between their two booklets.

Dunleavy, who ran in 2018 on a promise to balance the state budget and maintain full

Jeff Brady and Sean Layton gather signatures for the Recall Dunleavy campaign. (photo provided by Jeff Brady)

Permanent Fund dividends, was heavily criticized when he made deep cuts to the 2020 budget, including a $130 million decrease to the university system (about 40% of state funding) and a $96 million decrease to the ferry service (a two-thirds reduction). He later walked back many of the cuts.

Several groups including Keep Dunleavy and Elec-

tions Matter have formed to oppose the recall.

The state attorney general is challenging the legality of the recall effort, arguing the grounds for the recall vote do not meet the standard in state law. Recall Dunleavy won at the Superior Court level, with the case scheduled for oral arguments March 25 before the Alaska Supreme Court.

Be counted for our community.

Billions of dollars. Critical data. Representative democracy.

ONLINE RESPONSE STARTS MARCH 12.

2020census.gov

alaskacounts.org

March 27, 2020

Page 6

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

The calendar may say it’s spring, but we’re only just starting to see, hear signs from PAGE 3

ple are being advised to avoid trails — so many people are flocking to them that it’s the opposite of social distancing.

The calendar may say it’s spring, but here in Southeast Alaska, we’re only just starting to see and hear the signs of it. Crocuses emerging from frozen soil. Flocks of pine siskins twittering overhead. The call of the varied thrush, which a Juneau poet I know once referred to as “the rusty gates of spring re-opening,” is something that fills me with contentment to hear.

I keep waiting for the hooting of a sooty grouse; each year, I look forward to walking up into the forest in search of them and making grouse soup and grouse stock — a wilder and healthier version of chicken soup.

We Alaskans, Americans and the rest of the world

face uncharted waters in the months ahead. Hardworking Alaskans whose businesses and jobs are suddenly uncertain. Fisheries that might not be able to find essential workers for canneries and processors, and who face challenges trying to sell their fish once they catch it. Tourism-focused businesses that might not have clients. And that’s thinking only of the economic consequences of the pandemic, not the health consequences, which are very real and are growing. I’m worried for the elderly people I love.

I’m worried for the many, and incredibly selfless and brave, family and friends who work in Alaska hospitals.

Some things, though, are constant as long as we allow them to be. Each spring, spruce tips will emerge from the trees. Sooty grouse will

soon begin hooting in the Tongass again. And each year, millions upon millions of salmon will return to Alaska’s rivers and streams, feeding all of us — people, bears, wolves. Even the trees are fed by the nutrients they bring back. There’s something healing in this thought: that no matter what is happening in the world of humans, as long as we take care of and respect salmon and what they need to live, they will return to us.

They will feed us. They will nourish us in so many ways, just as they always have.

Even if we are quarantined and we can only see spring arrive from our window, how lucky we are to live here, in this place, where we can breathe fresh air, drink clean water, hear the croaking of sandhill cranes as they return — and where, year after year, salmon swim up thousands of rivers and streams and feed us all.

Mary Catharine Martin is the communications director of SalmonState, an organization that works to keep Alaska a place where wild salmon thrive.

A raven croaks from the top of a dead tree.

Lupine on a Southeast Alaska wetland.

by Mary Catharine Martin

by Mary Catharine Martin

A salmon draws close to the boat during a recent year’s fishing

by Mary Catharine Martin expedition.

Bjorn Dihle carries Shiras Dihle (age 1) on a recent hike.

Sockeye salmon school in a small Bristol Bay creek in the summer of 2018.

by Mary Catharine Martin

by Mary Catharine Martin

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

March 27, 2020

Page 7

Coping with COVID-19 the Skag-way

The Remedy Shoppe workers sport face masks and give a roll of free toilet paper with every purchase. A maximum of three customers are allowed in the shop. (photo by Melinda Munson)

A family hikes near the shore, climbing rocks and enjoying the fresh sea air. (photo by Melinda Munson)

Tu-Tu Tuesday is a thing!

Cindy Rau, Skagway School music teacher, hands a parent school work.

School was cancelled March 16 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

(photo by Melinda Munson)

Practicing social distancing by keeping two arms-length, these three brightly dressed women encourage Skagway to get outside in the nice spring weather and take a walk! From left, Kari Rain, Becky McGill Mull and Natasha Kraus. (Photo by Danielle Authier)

Becky Silvers Mull and Chezare Leipold place bears in their windows for children to discover during a “bear� hunt. Photos from Facebook.

The often rowdy Coffee Club met for a final time at Glacial Coffeehouse before the (photo by Melinda Munson) restaurant switched to take-out only.

March 27, 2020

Page 8

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

Hello Skagway, thanks for being you

Meet Melinda

By Melinda Munson

My mother was born and raised in Alaska. I was not so lucky. A product of the East Coast, I traveled 4,000 miles each summer to live with my grandparents on the miniscule island of Killisnoo, a quick skiff ride to Angoon. I savored the hiking and fishing, tolerated outhouses and learned everything I could about Tlingit/ Haida culture.

After studying journalism and English at the University of Washington, my husband (Paul) and I had two children. Through foster care and adoption, we added four more Munsons, all with varying special needs including blindness and intellectual impairment. We ended up in Las Vegas where Paul, a chef, fed the homeless.

We fled Las Vegas in 2016 after a record breaking heat wave and a neighborhood shooting. We sold our home, along with most of our belongings, and headed to the Final Frontier. We made a homestead in Chugiak, nestled among birch trees in the shadow of Bear Mountain. I wrote for local papers then transitioned to teaching high school. We adopted another child who we nicknamed “The LAST One.” We were comfortable. We were happy.

Then I saw the Anchorage Daily

News. Publisher Larry Persily was giving away a newspaper in rural Alaska. The kind of rural where you can’t get unlimited internet from the local phone company and the best produce should be bought the same day the barge arrives. I couldn’t have dreamed up a better opportunity.

Getting to Skagway was painful-both emotionally and physically. Our 18-year-old dislocated her shoulder in two places and underwent surgery.

She stayed behind when we realized we couldn’t depend on the floundering ferry system to get her to doctor appointments. A week before our departure, the upstairs tub leaked through the ceiling. Paul and the moving van were stymied in Whitehorse for days as avalanche crews worked to reopen The Klondike.

When we all finally arrived, we were met with smiles, meals and a crew of volunteers to unload the truck. Our rental home didn’t come with keys because the owner had “thrown them away 20 years ago.”

I’m already accustomed to the sharp north winds and the thud of my footsteps on the boardwalk as I walk to work.

After buying my first $6.30 gallon of milk, I’m beginning to better understand the hardship of living in small-town Alaska. It is not convenient. It is not cheap. But I think it will be beautiful.

Meet Gretchen

By Gretchen Wehmhoff

What a whirlwind time to become a newspaper owner.

When Melinda shared the article about Larry Persily giving away The Skagway News, I laughed and moved on, until she cornered me to compose an introduction letter to Larry.

We met with Larry several times

in person (remember those pre-pandemic days?) and over the phone.

He was inundated with interest from around the world so our selection seemed out of reach. However, just after the New Year, Larry called to offer us the paper. We agreed on $20 as the sale price.

Larry’s decision was not made lightly. His concern for Skagway and the paper was sincere. He wanted this paper to survive and serve the community. He wanted someone who would live in Skagway and he wanted someone deeply familiar with the state. He wanted to know the paper was in good hands, which is why we were horrified when our check to Larry -- our very first check -- the one for $20, bounced.

Larry saw the humor and the bank fixed their mistake. (Yes, it really was a bank error.)

But that mistake seemed minor compared to the missing apostrophe on the front page story and other miscellaneous layout errors we made in our first issue. We will do better.

A bit about me. My family arrived in Anchorage, Alaska in 1965 where I was raised. I attended the University of Denver (bachelor’s in communication) and Creighton University School of Law (master’s in negotiation and dispute resolution.)

In the 80’s I started teaching high school in Kenai then Anchorage. For 21 years I advised the Chugiak High School’s monthly student newspaper with a circulation starting at 500 and growing to 3,000 around the community.

Politics took my attention for a few years after I retired. I ran for state and local offices. While I didn’t win the elections, the experience, friends and acquaintances made a lasting impact.

In December 2018, I was appointed to serve in the Anchorage Assembly

for four months after an assembly member left to work for the governor’s office.

I’ve worked in other careers outside of education; 20 years in the restaurant business, as the public relations director for the Susitna (Alaska) Girl Scouts, graveyard shift paste-up with the Anchorage Daily News and a short stint as the development manager for an oil services company. Yet my world keeps returning to writing and teaching. I now teach part-time for the Anchorage School District and for UAA. I mediate and write when I can.

I live in Chugiak with my husband, Joe, and our dog, Athena. I will be spending half of my year in Skagway and also work on the paper, website and advertising remotely.

Through careers and volunteer work, I’ve visited different areas of Alaska such as Nome, Kotzebue, Utqiagvik, Dillingham, the Kenai Peninsula, the Interior, Valdez, Cordova and Southeast communities like Petersbuerg and Juneau. Now, I’ve found this beautiful hamlet near the Alaska-Canada border surrounded by mountains and snowy passes.

It has been a wonderful journey getting here. We have been overwhelmed by the kindness and closeness of this community. Thank you, Skagway.

Carmacks First Nation looks at geothermal power The Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation in the Yukon and an Alberta company are working together to look at installing a geothermal energy system to harness the Earth’s natural heat from deep underground.

The underground heat would be moved to the surface and used for heating or generating electricity.

Calgary-based Eavor Technologies has developed the system, called the Eav-

or-Loop, according to Canadian news reports.

The company and the First Nation signed a partnership agreement at a renewable energy conference in Whitehorse on Jan. 29, though it’s uncertain when work would start on the project or when the system would go online.

John Redfern, president of Eavor, said the system circulates a fluid to collect heat from below the Earth in a mile-and-a-half loop to

the surface and back. A pilot project was launched in Alberta last year. He described the technology as a closedloop process, similar to a radiator.

Redfern said the Yukon is a good location to try out the geothermal-based technology. “Little Salmon Carmacks is right on the Whitehorse trough, which is a nice sedimentary basin, so it’s a particularly good part of the Yukon.”

Carmacks is about 100 miles north of Whitehorse.

The venture has not selected a site for the project, though Redfern said he hopes to drill some exploratory wells this year.

“It also has a small footprint and doesn’t take anything out of the landscape or add anything to the landscape, so it’s really attractive to the First Nation and their traditional territory,” Cory Bellmore, president of the Carmacks

Development Corp., told the CBC. The First Nation is a joint-equity partner in the project, which is expected to cost C$30 million.

The Carmacks project could generate three megawatts of electricity, Redfern said.

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

March 27, 2020

Page 9

Closed schools lead to inventive family time and discussions from front page

celled classes for the week of March 16, just one week before spring break. The State of Alaska later announced school would be out of session until at least May 1.

“Everyone realizes how much of a strain it is on kids and parents,” Coughran said.

He stressed the importance of “heeding the advice of folks that know best.”

“We are protecting the health and safety of our students and the community,” Coughran said.

Cindy Rau, Skagway School’s music teacher, homeschooled four of her eight children. She shared ideas to help students and their families manage school work and the isolation that comes with social distancing.

“Just keep kids on that learning track the best you can,” Rau said. She suggested creating a realistic schedule.

“Create routines that work for your family. Keep it consistent,” she said. “Don’t compare yourself to how other parents are doing it.”

Rau recommended turning off the news and taking breaks from social media.

She emphasized this is a time for family bonding.

“These are precious moments. I would love to have someone here with me,”

said Rau, whose children are grown and live outside of Skagway.

Rau was adamant about one thing: keeping kids on a consistent bedtime, early enough for parents to enjoy a break.

“You need that. You need to take care of yourself,” she said.

John Hischer, a licensed clinical social worker for the Dahl Memorial Clinic, hopes parents have conversations with their kids about the recent upheaval. He knows that discussing COVID-19 with children can be difficult and offered the following strategies.

“Prepare yourself for the conversations with good facts. Process your own anxiety first,” Hischer said. He suggested that caregivers talk to friends, family or the clinic. Parents can visit the Center for Disease Control’s website (https://www.cdc. gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/ index.html) for accurate information as well as the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (http://dhss. alaska.gov/Pages/default. aspx).

After dealing with their own anxiety, Hischer said the next step is for caregivers to assess what their child knows.

With school cancelled, more young children are out for walks.

“Just because they’re not saying anything doesn’t mean they’re not thinking about it,” he said.

Next, practice active listening skills. Parents should put down their phones and give their full attention to the conversation. They can then reflect back what their child says.

“Don’t dismiss the fears that they have,” Hischer said.

For example: It sounds like you’re really scared about Grandma. Let’s talk about that.

Police & Fire Blotter March 11 Police found the front door to Paws and Claws animal rescue open late at night.

Upon further investigation, volunteers were settling in six puppies that had come in that day.

Fire personnel responded to an alarm on Broadway St. March 14 Police located a lost dog and reunited it with its owner.

Lastly, Hischer recommends parents reframe the situation by focusing on the positive. Time off from school and away from friends means a chance for at-home art projects and lots of family time.

According to Hischer, parents can help their kids feel safe by letting them know the adults in their life are dealing with the situation. There are “lots of adults working on this, lots of people to keep you safe,” Hischer said. “Par-

March 17 EMS responded to a medical emergency.

March 18 EMS responded to a medical emergency.

EMS assisted Airlift Northwest with a medevac from the clinic.

March 20 EMS responded to a medical emergency.

March 16 Police received a report of a suspicious vehicle left March 21 parked and running. The Police helped return a lost owner had started the ve- dog.

ents can also “emphasize good hygiene and things they (children) can actually control.”

Coughran wants to remind parents that social isolation doesn’t necessarily mean staying in the house. He frequently takes hikes with his children and feels lucky to have “trails right out the front door.”

Rau had one more piece of advice for parents for the month ahead.

“Give yourself some grace,” she said.

A letter to our advertisers Dear Advertisers:

hicle but forgot to turn it off.

(photo by Melinda Munson)

We recognize this is a difficult time for Skagway and businesses who depend on the tourism season. We wanted to update you on our plan for The Skagway News and for the Skaguay Alaskan visitors guide.

1) We will offer free digital advertising to all of our Skagway News print advertisers. In other words, if you have an ad in the print version of the SN, you are able to have a digital presence on our website as we roll out the new site.

2) Due to the border closure and 14-day mandatory isolation procedures, we are not able to provide a print version for the next two issues or until we are able to safely and economically get the paper from our printer in Whitehorse, or make other printing arrangements. We ARE, HOWEVER, providing a free PDF version of the SN on our website and via email when requested. So, readers will still see your ads in the online PDF version of the paper. In addition, we are offering to print a copy of the paper from our office for readers who need a print version.

3) We are offering free online access at www. skagwaynews.com until May 1.

Regarding the Visitors Guide 1) We plan to make two runs of the Skaguay Alaskan visitors guide. The first run will be smaller and we will print it in several runs of thousands as we need them. We plan to print and revise the second version to be ready July 1.

2) We plan to offer a 20% discount for ads in the Skaguay Alaskan. Some of you have already received a 10% discount for early placement and purchase. We will add 10% and submit a refund of 10% to your account.

3) At this point, the use of our famous Newsies to hand out the paper will depend on the COVID-19 situation and how comfortable parents feel. We will make sure visitor guides are still distributed around town and to visitors as they disembark.

4) We should also mention that we will be changing printers for the Alaskan. We are still in negotiations for that contract.

We value the community of Skagway. We know we are all making tough decisions to allow us to make it through this to the other side. Thank you for supporting The Skagway News and we wish you the best.

-Melinda and Gretchen

Family Fun Page - print and share

Page 10

The key will be posted online next Friday.

THANK YOU!!!

VOLUNTEERS

And anyone we may have missed - if you didn’t pick up your shirt, text Jeff at 907-973-2354 and he can arrange for pickup.

So sorry, due to COVID-19 concerns, here will be no volunteer party this year.

Our sincerest thanks to all for a great Buckwheat 2020 from the Log Cabin Ski Society board of directors. See you at the 35th annual Buckwheat International Ski Classic on March 13, 2021! www.buckwheatskiclassic.com

51 Little finger 52 Illegal liquors 54 A ninth?

58 Stake 59 Between high and low water marks 61 Bell curve figure 62 Short brandy glass?

63 Bone dry 64 Formerly, once 65 Factions 66 Version Down 1 “The Alienist” author 2 On the sheltered side 3 Way to go 4 Statements of future action 5 Cough up in advance 6 Coke’s partner 7 Subjective 8 Drive 9 Approximately 10 Fang scraper 11 Excess amounts 12 Woodland flycatcher

THE SKAGWAY NEWS 13 “The door’s open!”

18 Ratted 22 Charge 24 Train 26 Door securer 27 Gelatin substitute 28 “Othello” villain 29 Label for a dog, maybe 32 Old Cuzco valley inhabitant 34 Top-of-the-line 35 Nest eggs, for short 36 Riga native 38 The rocks 44 U.S. Army medal 46 Gets around 47 Salon job 48 Embarrassment 49 Sharpener 50 Itsy-bitsy bits 51 Tubular pasta 53 Noisy and controversial perjurer?

55 Notion 56 Drug law enforcer 57 Delight 60 Young newt

Nautical terms Wordsearch Aft Beam Below Binnacle Boat Bow Crow's Nest Davits Deck Fall Ladder

Due to space limitations, names listed just once - many performed multiple duties and we thank all 100-plus of you!

TRAIL CREW - Mike Korsmo & Cory Thole, coordinators: Ken “Cowboy” Graham, Aric Baldwin, Stephanie Ryan, John Heinrichs, Sam Best, Jeremy Simmons, Alex King, Dylan Morgan, Sean Layton, Julius Thole, Tim Bourcy, J. Lolosky, , Jack Lienhart, Leslie Seale, Autumn, Chicken, Josh, Ben, Flip, Sam Nelson, Paul Reichert, Tekla Helgason, Mark Saldi, Stuart Brown (mechanic), Joel Luet & Mike Kramer (Whitehorse XC Ski Club).

AID STATION CARVERS/BUILDERS - Cory “Tower’ Thole, coordinator: Pete Lucchetti, Phillip Clark, Michael Yee, Bruce Schindler, Bruce Weber, Pam Joy, Lindsay Agar, Andy Reid, Janine Privett, Kyan Morrison, Taryn Morrison, Michelle Rigoni, Chris McCarron, Emily McCarron, Dawn Hansen, Jolanta Ryan, Brad Ryan, Reba Parris, Alyssa De Angelus, Chezare Leipold, Sharin Webster, and the ACES 10 students and chaperones from Whitehorse!

AID STATION SERVERS - Bruce Weber & Don Corwin, grillmasters: Chris Robinson, Robin Solfisburg, Elle McManus, Mary Thole, Joeseph Torregrossa, Sara Nielsen, Danielle Daffe, Mike Ryan, Brooke Jasky-Zuber, Jessica Jagelski, Mike Konsler.

TIMING CREW - Johnny Aribam, coordinator: Allyson Nannini, Beth Russell, Mary Russell, Peter Gaingrande.

PARKING LOT - Dave Vogel, coordinator: Jonah Graves, Sarah Hatfield.

CANADIAN SKI PATROL, Kristine Simpson, coordinator: Kris Gardner, Karen McColl, Stephanie Saal, Andrew Malloy.

BIB PICKUP/WHITEHORSE - Beth & Jim Hawkings, coordinators: Lene Nielsen, Lorna Hutchinson, Liz Butler, Susan Tinevez.

RACER BAG PREP/AB HALL BIB PICK-UP - Kristin Wagner, coordinator: Cara Cosgrove, Tami Scime, Barbara Hess, Tamar Harrison, Red Mauldin, Kaitlyn Jared, Shauna Hansford, Cori Giacomazzi.

BREAKFAST CREW - Ryan Mandeville, coordinator: Andrew Beierly, Si Dennis, Sheryl Dennis, Kari Rain, Alwyn Hites-Clabaugh, Jim Higgins, Stu Warner, Deb Boettcher, Tarin Erickson, Lisa Mandeville.

REC CENTER BANQUET - Katherine Nelson, coordinator: Jeanne Tyson, Lisa Florit, Holley Drake, Carol Bourcy, Melissa Gwyn, Gregg Kollasch, Scott Logan, Wendy Anderson, Jacy Kern, Alex Goodman, Nicole Goodman, George Butt, Jessica Hanson, Greg Kausaku.

MULTIMEDIA, ETC. - Jeff Brady, volunteer coordinator Courtenay Birdsall Clifford (logos), Andrew Cremata (photos), Julene Brown (library projector), Cody Jennings & Wendy Anderson (CVB screen & podium)

Across 1 Sagan of “Cosmos” 5 Choice 10 Chucklehead 14 ---- vera 15 Buzz 16 All square 17 Has another go at 19 Colorful salamander 20 Hay grass 21 Ridgepole 23 Click beetle 25 Lubricator 26 Top colors 29 --- Aviv 30 “What - ---!”

31 60% of us live here 33 Hearty hello 37 Kind of palm 38 Sugar coating 39 Auld lang syne 40 Faculty senior 41 Little sweetmeat?

42 Little biter 43 Chemical ending 45 Most objectionable 48 Scrambles

March 27, 2020

List Mess Officer Overhead Port Purser Ship SOS Stack Stern Thwart

SPONSORS

AND IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS

$2,500 AND ABOVE Alaska Shirt Company Muni. of Skagway CVB & Rec. Center Salli & Steve Reeder Holland America Line & Princess Cruises The Mountain Shop / Packer Expeditions $1,000 AND ABOVE Kelly Cunningham The Briner Family White Pass & Yukon Route Skip Elliott Dr. Eric Olsen The Brady Family Recreation Sites & Trails BC Duff’s Backcountry Outfitters Whitehorse Cross Country Ski Club Alaskan Brewing Company $500 AND ABOVE Alaska Liquor Store / Richter’s Lutak Lumber Alaska X Excursions Jeremy Simmons The Skagway News Skagway Book Co. TEMSCO Helicopters Yukon Brewing $250 AND ABOVE Hunz & Hunz Enteprises Dyea-Chilkoot Trail Transport $100 AND ABOVE Sockeye Cycle Dawn Adams Also, special thanks to these great partner organizations & businesses: Recreation Sites & Trails BC, Canadian Ski Patrol, Parks Canada, Sport Yukon, PR Services (website), Skagway CVB (AB Hall), First Presbyterian Church (breakfast), Dyea-Chilkoot Trail Transport (shuttle), Skagway Rec Center (banquet), SDC (bar),Mike Healy (Sgt. Preston’s), and Jean Worley (Miss Buckwheat sash & crown) -------

FINALLY A VERY SPECIAL HOWL TO OUR ESTEEMED RACE FOUNDER

BUCKWHEAT DONAHUE WITH US ON THE TRAIL AND FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS

AD SPACE DONATED BY THE SKAGWAY NEWS BISC SPONSOR SINCE 1987

Did you go on a “bear” hunt in Skagway? Here is one more bear you can color.

THE SKAGWAY NEWS COMMUNITY CALENDAR ONGOING Library Hours: Closed to the public until further notice due to COVID-19.

Dahl Clinic Winter Hours: Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., closed Sat. and Sun. For after-hours emergencies, please dial 911.

Senior Lunch postponed at Presbyterian Rec. Hall.

Border stations: 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Call each station for specifics.

Elk’s Burger Feed: No burger feeds until further notice.

WEEKS AHEAD No school until May 1.

See municipal notices for further information.

Impact Mitigation Task Force : March 27, 6 p.m.

See www.skagway.org for borough meeting updates.

Seward’s Day - Borough offices closed March 30 Email Updates & New Events: editor@skagwaynews.com

March 27, 2020

News Classified Ads cost 40 cents per word, $4 minimum.

Ads must be pre-paid unless advertiser has a business account with the newspaper.

Skagway residents may drop off ad and payment at the News Depot. Payment can be made by cash, check or credit card. Out-of-town ads must be pre-paid with a credit card and should be phoned in to 907983-2354. All ads appear in our on-line edition for a minimum of two weeks. Next deadline: Sunday, March 22, 2020 FREE PERSONAL CLASSIFIEDS up to 25 words!

CALL (907)983-2354 (restrictions apply)

JOBS-OPPORTUNITIES Little Dippers Learning Center is now hiring teachers for the 2020 Season. Visit www. skagwaylit tledippers.com/ employment to learn more!(1-2b) THE MUNICIPALITY OF SKAGWAY is currently hiring the following positions: Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant Visitor Information Specialist II Groundskeeper Emergency Responder Receptionist/Medical Assistant A Municipality of Skagway announcement and application can be downloaded from the website at www.skagway.org.(1b) LINEMAN APPRENTICE: SKAGWAY AP&T IS NOW HIRING for a full-time Lineman Apprentice

CLASSIFIEDS at our Skagway location. Our successful candidate will be a self-starter, highly motivated, flexible, detail-oriented, willing to follow directions, and willing to travel. They will possess excellent team and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work with minimum supervision. Must have a High School Diploma or GED; must be willing to live within 5 miles of Skagway; must have the capability to attend and successfully complete the 4-year AP&T Apprenticeship Program.

For additional information about the Lineman Apprentice position, please pick up a detailed job posting at AP&T’s Skagway office, or email Human Resources at (christina.h@aptalaska.com). This posting will close on February 28, 2020. EEO Employer/Vets/ Disabled ~ AP&T is a Drug and Alcohol-free workplace(1&2b)

JOB OPPORTUNITIES: Dahl Memorial Clinic is now interviewing for Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant. For applications and job description, go to www. skagway.org/administration/page/ employment-opportunities (13cb) ALASKA EXCURSIONS IS NOW HIRING FOR SUMMER 2020!

Our season will run from about April 25th to September 28th. We have open positions including Maintenance, CDL Driver, Unimog Operator, Office/ Dock Rep and Retail Sales Staff.

For more information visit our website, http://www.alaskax.com/ employment or give our office a call at 907-983-4444. http://www. alaskax.com/employement (3cb)

HOUSING-PROPERTY

FOR SALE: 401 5th Avenue, 2, one-bedroom houses on one lot. $374,000. Contact: David Brena, ARA, 983-2700.(1cb) FOR SALE: Three parcels of land.

First time on the market. One 40 ac. parcel on AB Mountain (the Skyline Trail goes through the NW corner), One 83.4 ac. parcel in Dyea along the Chilkoot Trail in the vicinity of the old Hosford sawmill, and one 2.18 ac. parcel below the incinerator near the Skagway River.

Call for further details, ARA, David Brena, 907-983-2700. (11cb) FOR SALE: Duplex, three bedrooms and two baths on each side. Constructed 2019. Fridge, range, washer/dryer included, partially furnished. Call 907-7232931.

COMMERCIAL-PROPERTY DOWNTOWN SKAGWAY SPACE available for lease: 1200SF retail space next to Eagles Hall. Great location in the heart of Skagway’s Historic District between 5th and 6th Ave. on Broadway. This is for the south retail in the Kelly Block Building. Contact jimpjewell@ gmail.com or text Jim at 907-6120114.(1cb) RETAIL SPACE FOR LEASE. Skagway Olde Town Building, 7th & Broadway. Contact Mike Healy 907-973-2337(16cb) RETAIL SPACE ON BROADWAY for lease. See info at: www. skagwayrealestate.net. (1cb)

MARKETPLACE

BROADWAY BULLETIN BOARD RECREATION CENTER SCHEDULE Skagway Recreation Center • 12th & Main • 983-2679 Cardio • Weight Room • Locker Rooms • Showers • Rock Wall Mon. - Thur. 5:30 am - 9 pm, Fri. 5:30 am - 7 pm, Sat.10 am - 5 pm, Sun. 1 pm - 7 pm

The Recreation Center is Closed until further notice due to COVID-19 per the Municipality

Women in Conservation Leadership Tele-Town Hall, Tuesday, March 31, 6:307:30 p.m. For Women’s History Month Southeast Alaska Conservation Council is hosting a Telephone Town Hall featuring the voices of women in conservation leadership.

Executive Director of the Southeast Alaska Indigenous Transboundary Commission Tis Peterman, SEACC Executive Director Meredith Trainor and SEACC Environmental Policy Analyst Sally Schlichting will share their insights, knowledge and experiences and be available for questions from callers.

Gather your questions about conservation issues facing Southeast’s communities and be by your phone on March 31, and SEACC will call YOU at the time of the event if you RSVP. RVSP by using this link here: https:// www.seacc.org/climatetownhall

Alaska Writers Guild offers free online seminars Sitting at home with your writerly self? Never fear! Alaska Writers Guild is converting their programming to webinars, with a few surprise webinar events thrown in just for you!

Visit www.alaskawritersguild.com for free seminars with Alaskan poet Caitlin Buxbaum and Alaskan author Kris Farman.

SKAGWAY WORSHIP DIRECTORY Please contact each worship location for their udpated COVID-19 schedule Assembly of God Church

8th & State • 907-983-2350 Sun. Worship....................11 a.m.

Thu. Intercessory Prayer.6:30 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church

5th & Main • 983-2260 Sun. Morning Worship .....10 a.m.

Sun. Sunday School...............4 p.m.

Wed. Women’s Prayer ..........7 a.m.

Thur. Celebrate Recovery.....6 p.m.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 11th & State • 983-2518 Sun. Sacrament Meeting...10 a.m.

Sun. School/Primary ...11:10 a.m.

Relief Society/Priesthood...12 p.m.

St. Therese Catholic Church

9th & State • 983-2271 Sun. Mass..............................5 p.m.

Mass Mon. & Tues...........12:10 p.m. (when a priest is available)

Life Link Fellowship Bible Church

11th and Main • 907-612-0121 Sat. Night Worship ............7 p.m.

Sunday Service.................11 a.m.

Page 11

CHILKAT VALLEY NEWS & WHITEHORSE STAR available at Skaguay News Depot & Books.

(1cp)

PERSONALS-MISC. SERVICES FOOD BANK DONATIONS WELCOME. Donations may be sent to the Food Bank, PO Box 200, Skagway, AK 99840. The local Food Bank helps those in need with groceries. If you need assistance, or know anyone who needs assistance, at any time of year, call any pastor or 907-6120313. (1cp)

LEGAL AD The Municipality of Skagway is accepting bids for Skagway Public Restrooms Janitorial Services. A full copy of the request for bids can be obtained by e-mailing m.gihl@ skagway.org. Bids are due no later than 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24. 2020 at City Hall in Skagway, AK.(1B)

March 27, 2020

Page 12

THE SKAGWAY NEWS

MOS implements ‘proactive’ measures to keep COVID-19 out from front page

government travel restrictions.

“The failure to follow this order is punishable by a fine of up to $25,000, or imprisonment of not more than one year, or both pursuant to Alaska Statute 12.55.035 and Alaska Statute 12.55.135,” Crum said.

In response to COVID-19, procedural changes have been made to the town’s only clinic. The Dahl Memorial Clinic (DMC) is advising patients to “postpone or cancel all non-urgent or elective appointments for three months to decrease the overall impact of COVID-19 on the Alaska healthcare structure,” in a public notice dated March 18.

The clinic is following guide-

lines issued by DHHS. outline the new community “proactive.” Ketchikan and nesses such at The Skagway The clinic will remain guidelines and can be found Sitka have enacted similar Brewing Company are curopen. Community members at the airport and ferry termi- measures. Visit www.skagrently renting out self-isolaway.org and click on the red who are unsure if their med- nal. tion units. Anyone self-isoical issue qualifies as urgent “It doesn’t bring happiness COVID-19 banner to view lating who needs help with should contact the clinic for to any of us,” said Assem- the new resolutions. errands can find a community guidance. bly member Orion Hanson, of volunteers on the Facebook Curbside medication pick- describing the resolutions as groups Skagway Marketplace up is now available during and Skagway Bulletin Board. business hours. Patients The DMC can also assist. should park in the designated Currently, the municipalspot at the front of the clinic ity’s request that travelers and call 907-983-2255, ext. returning to Skagway from 2. An employee will walk the affected areas of Alaska prescriptions to the vehicle. self-isolate is just that, a reStarting March 23, DMC quest. will provide curbside testing “We believe that people refor COVID-19. Concerned alize the seriousness of the persons should call the clinic situation and will voluntarito determine if testing is necly comply with the direction essary.

A stack of flyers notifying travelers of new community guidelines sit from the CDC, DHSS, our Bright yellow flyers dis- on the counter near Aaron Thomas of Alaska Seaplanes. municipal officials and emer(Photo by Melinda Munson) tributed by the municipality gency responders. If people chose not to voluntarily comply, the assembly would have to discuss possible legislative actions that could include enforcement,” wrote Cody Jennings, tourism director for the municipality, in an email to The Skagway News.

Travelers disembarking in Skagway from the Lower 48, or a foreign country, are now legally obligated to self-isolate.

On March 23, Gov. Mike Dunleavy issued a state mandate which requires travelers who arrive in Alaska sign a State of Alaska Travel Declaration Form and immediately self-quarantine for 14-days, at their home or the place they indicated on their form.

Adam Crum, commissioner of DHHS, stated that the (Photo by Melinda Munson) Assembly member Orion Hanson and Mayor Andrew Cremata distance themselves at a March 24 meeting. mandates supersede any local