THE SKAGWAY NEWS.
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
May 22, 2020
May 22, 2020
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Sk a g w ay, A l a s k a
Meet our new intern
Krizelle joins the team for the summer PAGE 5
A successful food drive
Generosity of the community PAGE 7
$1.50
More “quarantivities”
Staying busy in a COVID-19 era PAGE 8
‘Skagway is not becoming Hawaii’ MOS extends self-isolation with no penalties
By Melinda Munson The Assembly voted May 21 to continue Skagway’s 14day self-isolation policy, despite Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s Health Mandate 18 which loosened travel restrictions between Alaskan communities linked by the road system, beginning May 12. Section one under general requirements of Mandate 18 reads: “No one traveling to or from any community for Critical Infrastructure/Essential Services reasons or Critical Personal Needs travel may be subject to any automatic quarantine or isolation on arrival, except as allowed under Alaska Statutes or Health Mandates.” Health Mandate 19 further clarified that the ferry system is considered part of the road system. Thus, Skagway cannot be considered a “small community” exempt from intrastate travel rules. In a May 19 memo to the Assembly, Borough Manager Brad Ryan wrote, “If the Assembly or government of Skagway deems it necessary to take action such as requiring people arriving in Skagway to self-isolate for 14 days to maintain the safety of the community, I am under advisement from our legal counsel that Skagway has the authority to do this.” Ryan further stated, “If the Assembly decides to continue the 14-day self-isolation mandate, I want to remind the Assembly that this relies on
Photo by Reba Hylton
Booker Klug enjoys the spotlight. The town came out for a graduation parade celebrating Skagway School’s classes of 2020, 2024, 2032. See page 6 for more photos.
voluntary compliance unless they pass additional legislation regarding penalties.” The Assembly passed Resolution 20-17R after a lengthy discussion which included amendments of amendments. Assemblymember Steve Burnham introduced changes to the original resolution with Assemblymember David Brena then suggesting changes to the amendments. The main points of the resolution are outlined below. • The 14-day self-isolation period for arrivals to Skagway will continue and be re-evaluated at the next Assembly meeting on June 4. • Skagway will work with other Southeast port towns to establish safety guidelines For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook, Instagram
and protocols. • If a case of COVID-19 is confirmed in Southeast and traced to a cruise ship, Skagway will immediately implement a Traveler Self-Isolation Order (TSO). The TSO
requires anyone travelling to Skagway from outside the state, or coming from an Alaska location with known COVID-19 cases, to self-isolate for 14 days. • Two weeks before a cruise
ship arrival and two weeks after a cruise ship departure, all Skagway employees who come into contact with the public must wear a mask or face covering while within
By Gretchen Wehmhoff The building isn’t there. In fact, it was built and came down twice -- the last time due to fire after sitting empty for decades. An RV campground sits in its place. Byron Mallott, the former CEO of Sealaska Corporation and Alaska’s first Alaska Native Lieutenant Governor, was one of “the mission kids” who attended the St. Pius X
Mission in Skagway. Even in the small town of Skagway, differentiating the “town kids” from the “mission kids” was common, although students attending the mission school included both. Mallott and his sister attended St. Pious X in its final years. As the school closed, both finished the year at Skagway High School. Mallott later graduated from Shel-
don Jackson High School in Sitka. Sam Kito III, former state legislator for the Byron Mallott area, remembers Mallott well as a family friend. “He’s known me longer than I knew him,” said Kito, who believes he was younger than ten when he recalls the
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Former Lt. Gov. Byron Mallott passes at 77
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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.
ADVERTISING & NEWS COPY DEADLINES Next issue will be published
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AD DEADLINE: Sun. May 31 Please email sales@skagwaynews.com All ads and classifieds by Sun. May 31, 2020 COPY, LETTERS, CALENDAR DEADLINE: Mon. June 1 Please email editor@skagwaynews.com All news copy, letters and calendar events By Mon. June 1 2020 Vol. XLIII, No. 8 (879 May 22, 2020 Published biweekly Phone: (907) 983-2354 www.skagwaynews.com editor@skagwaynews.com sales@skagwaynews.com Publishers Melinda Munson Gretchen Wehmhoff Managing Editor Melinda Munson Production Editor/Sales Gretchen Wehmhoff Summer Intern Krizelle Solidum Contributers Reba Hylton Circulation Assistants
Chris Kuhn, Danielle Authier
Editor Emeritus
William J. “Jeff” Brady
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Sign up online at www.skagwaynews.com or call us at 907-983-2354 Mail checks to PO Box 244, Skagway, AK 99840 All print subscriptions include online access. Skagway (local) $30 Out-of-town $45 (periodical rate) First class $55 Overseas $65 Online Only $25 USPS 697130 ISSN 0745-872X
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May 22, 2020
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
Reminder that Canada is closed for non-resident recreation The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is reminding United States travelers, ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, that travel restrictions are still in place at all Canadian international border crossings. The Government of Canada introduced border measures in March to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Canada, including the restriction of all non-essential travel into Canada. All travel of an optional or discretionary nature, including tourism, recreation and entertainment, is covered by these measures across all ports of entry in all modes of transportation – land, marine, air and rail. With the travel restrictions still in place, foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, will not be allowed to enter Canada if they attempt to come for any of the following examples of discretionary (non-essential) travel: • opening or checking on a cottage or seasonal home;
• sightseeing; • boating across the border; • fishing or hunting; • visiting family, friends, partners or a girlfriend, boyfriend or fiancé(e); • attending a party or celebration; • driving in transit for the purpose of taking a shortcut through Canada to get to a U.S. destination faster; and, • picking up a pet. The CBSA is reminding boaters that crossing the border for recreation or tourism purposes is currently prohibited. Boaters should visit the CBSA website for more information. The CBSA has temporarily suspended service at certain small vessel reporting sites, small airports of entry, ferry terminals and to the Remote Area Border Crossing program. Travelers should review the list of CBSA locations that remain open during this temporary service suspension on the CBSA website.
A note to our subscribers 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 are not able to provide a print copy of the paper until COVID-19 is no longer a threat to our community. HOWEVER We will provide a PDF version of our paper to the community via our website beginning Friday, March 27. The issue will include everything you would normally find in the SN including ads from our supportive advertisers, photos, updates and the beloved Fire & Police Blotter. Please send us your email address and name to sales@ skagwaynews.com to receive notice when the SN is .
posted or to receive a PDF version via email during March, April and May. 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 through May 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
Quick Facts • As of April 22, there continues to be a temporary restriction on all non-essential travel at the Canada-U.S. border. This restriction has been extended until June 21, 2020, and can be prolonged as necessary for public health reasons. • All persons entering Canada – no matter their country of origin or mode of
entry - MUST isolate themselves for 14 days if they have symptoms of or confirmed COVID-19 or quarantine themselves for 14 days if they do not have symptoms of COVID-19. • For the latest on cross-border programs and services, travelers can call the CBSA’s Border Information Service at 1-800-461-9999.
Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor and People in Skagway, I am writing this editorial/letter to the person or persons that came up with the idea of giving a parade for the graduating class of 2020! Thank you for the great idea! Only in a small town like we have in Skagway can something like this take place. Both my wife and I had tears in our eyes as we watched the parade and listened to the sirens and horns. In this time of isolation with the virus there are so few things that we can really celebrate, this parade was such a joy for all of us! Great job and kudos! - Marv Russell
The Skagway News welcomes opinions pieces and letters to the editor. Opinion pieces should be no longer than 600 words and will be published based on availability and relevance to current and local events. Letters to the editor should not exceed 250 words. Submit letters and opinions to editor@skagwaynews. com. Letters may be edited for grammar and length.
Photo by Melinda Munson
The Skaguay News Depot and Books displays a printed copy of The Skagway News on their front windows.
Send us your name and email to receive a PDF version for the month of May. Email sales@skagwaynews.com.
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
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May 22, 2020
National Day of Awareness for missing, murdered indigenous women By Melinda Munson The statistics for brutality against native women are grim. That’s one reason Sen. Lisa Murkowski declared May 5 National Day of Awareness on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, in partnership with Sen. Steve Dains, R-Mont. According to the National Institute of Justice, 84 percent of Native American and Alaskan Native women suffer violence in their lifetime. More than half experience sexual or intimate partner violence. Data on missing and murdered indigenous women is harder to reconcile. A 2016 study by the Urban Indian Health Institute reported 5,712 missing Native American women. That same year, the Justice Department recorded only 116 missing Native American women. Alaska currently has the fourth highest rate of missing or murdered indigenous women. According to KTUU-TV, Anchorage has nine missing Native Alaskan women who were not documented in law enforcement records. “...We recognize the devastation that so many families have seen when it comes to those that they love who have been murdered or gone missing. And unfortunately, for far too long, there has
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been silence on this issue. There has been a failure to act in face of what we know -- and sometimes not knowing what we are dealing with -- because we haven’t asked the questions, which is equally problematic,” Murkowski said. Sara Kinjo-Hischer, Skagway Traditional Council’s tribal administrator, was pleased by the May 5 declaration. “I am so glad, even if it is one day, that there is an awareness day. These awareness days help bring light to hard-to-talk-about topics and help educate people on what is really going on,” Kinjo-Hischer said. What’s really going on is complicated. Jurisdiction issues between tribal and non-tribal law enforcement, institutional racism, lack of funding and remote locations with little to no police presence are just some of the factors that contribute to inaccurate accounting and lack of investigation into murdered and missing native women. “The numbers are just unbelievable and make you wonder what country you live in,” Kinjo-Hischer said. She noted that last year, Gov. Mike Dunleavy attempted to cut significant funds from the Village Public Safety Officer
Photo provided by the office of Sen Lisa Murkowski
Sen. Lisa Murkoswski (R) Alaska, speaks on the floor of the U.S. Senate to the issue of missing and murdered indigenous women.
Program. Dunleavy justified the cuts because many of the positions remain unfilled as villages struggled to hire officers willing to live in remote areas with little support and low wages. The National Day of Awareness is a continuation of state, national and tribal efforts to bring attention and action to the problem of missing and murdered indigenous women. Murkowski also led two pieces of legislation, Savanna’s Act and the Not Invisible Act. Savanna’s Act, named after 22-year-old Savanna La-
Fontaine-Greywind of the Spirit Lake Nation, who was abducted and killed in North Dakota in 2017 while pregnant, aims to improve data collection, standardize protocol among law enforcement entities and provide more funding to First Nation governments. The Not Invisible Act coordinates efforts between victim advocacy groups and the Secretary of the U.S. De-
partment of the Interior. It addresses the issue of human trafficking and establishes a Joint Advisory Committee to make recommendations towards a reduction in violent crimes. Both bills passed the U.S. Senate in March and are now before the U.S. House of Representatives.
May 22, 2020
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Editors’ Column
By Gretchen Wehmhoff As a teacher, I’ve spent the last few weeks getting kids to the finish line. The move to online class wasn’t a big modification to my school. We are part home school, part face-to-face, so much of our out-of-class communication with our students is via online sources such as Canvas and Google Classroom. While the rest of the Anchorage School District took a few weeks to train, we were able restart school right after the extended spring break. Different kids had different reactions. Some loved the Zoom meetings, but really
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
Turtles can teach us a thing or two about progress didn’t care to do the classwork. Others were able to stay on task. Towards the last few weeks, kids were tired. They had lost their sense of routine, often sleeping late and missing the online class. They missed the structure and separation of school and home. One student had four brothers and wished she had a door to her room. Quiet time to read was a commodity. Parents were at a loss, trying to get their own work completed. Eventually, everyone was mentally exhausted. Classwork had piled up and time was getting short. So each student needed a plan. It was no longer a matter of reaching out to parents or trying to track down the missing, it was all about getting each kid through this time that not only seemed overwhelming, but resembled the last bite when you are full. Or, for you teachers, the last few papers to grade when you are spent
from grading all day. Sometimes it was just a nod of encouragement, and other times I felt like I was herding kittens through a mud bog. Occasionally, I shared the story of my persistent turtle. Buddy, a terrapin I’d picked up at a pet store while in college in Denver, lived with me for about 12 years. He had free reign of my small apartment. In the winter he would poke his nose in a particular corner and stay there for two months of hibernation. When he came out, he maneuvered himself into my path so I would know he was ready for me to provide lettuce, chickweed and soft dog food. I recall one evening when I blew off a suitor by telling him I had plans to watch my turtle walk across the floor. It was just a snarky remark, but I ended up doing that anyway. Buddy had decided to head to the wall to get warm by the register. I watched him make a left turn and march across
the living room. Turtles can pick up some good speed when they get their rhythm. He moved steadily toward the wall until he ran into my guitar case. Normally, during such an exciting moment with my pet, I would have moved the guitar, but I decided to watch him. He didn’t stop. By moving his left front leg forward and lifting himself up, he was forced to follow the edge of the case. He never stopped moving. It was slow, but eventually his persistence took him around the neck of the obstacle and back on his path to the wall. I shared this story with my students. Buddy didn’t get to the wall by quitting, and he didn’t get there quickly, but he got there. He kept his momentum in the direction he had planned. So assignment-by-assignment, the kids would move forward. My colleagues in the school were doing the same thing, coaching kids to the
end of the semester. No matter how slowly, they just need to keep moving. A good number of kids learned to compartmentalize. They learned how to focus their time and keep the end in sight. They learned that a little bit at a time, they could get the job done. So while I hope some picked up the love in Romeo and Juliet and the drama of Macbeth, or they became more fluent writers by finishing their weekly writing prompts, I know they learned to survive and move forward. They are learning a new reality and most are adapting. Kids are tenacious, and so was Buddy. When I get overwhelmed at work or running a newspaper, I take a step back and remember Buddy, heading for the heater and persevering when he came upon a mountain – or a guitar case – to get there. He made it. We all can.
AFN urges all Alaska Natives to be counted in 2020
Photo provided by Jaime Bricker
Austin Bricker cuts firewood to sell for income this summer.
By Melinda Munson The Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN), the largest native organization in the state, wants Native Alaskans to be prepared before they fill out the 2020 census. The census, which takes about 10 minutes to complete and contains less than 10 questions, determines how much money the federal government will allocate to federally recognized tribes for programs such as Head Start or WIC for the next 10 years. According to AFN, if a native family of four is not counted, their community loses $14,000 in funding annually. The United States Census Bureau estimated that Native Alaskans were undercounted by 4.9% in the 2010 Census, more than double the rate of the next population group. Historically, Native Alaskans have been underrepresented due to geographic isolation, language barriers and mistrust of the government. The Census Bureau tried to address those problems when it began the 2020 census in Toksook Bay, a Bering Sea
community 500 miles north of Anchorage. Census workers traveled to the village of 650 people by plane, then snow machine. The Toksook Bay census began in January, two months before the traditional start of the census, in an effort to canvas the community before the ice melted, making travel more difficult, and before residents migrated to seasonal fishing camps. Skagway’s census participation should be less complicated than Toksook Bay, but Sara Kinjo-Hischer, Skagway Traditional Council tribal administrator, outlined three guidelines for Native Alaskan participants, all of which can be found at https://www.nativefederation.org/2020census/. First, don’t expect an invitation or code in the mail. Such invitations are only sent to physical addresses and not post office boxes. Residents can report their household information at www.
my2020census.gov without a code. Those who don’t have online access can complete the census via telephone by calling 844-330-2020. Second, be strategic about who claims head of household. In a part-Native Alaskan household, the person filling out the census, or Person One, should be Native Alaskan. According to AFN, “If Person One says he or she is American Indian or Alaska Native, then the entire household is counted as one with a Native head of household.” And third, it’s important to list the name of the respondent’s federally recognized tribe, not their regional or village corporation. Participants can locate their tribe by region here: https://www.nativefederation.org/2020/02/ aktribes/. Individuals who don’t know their tribe can list their village. If applicable, more than one tribe or village may be listed.
www.my2020census.gov
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
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May 22, 2020
Introducing our 2020 intern By Melinda Munson The Skagway News’ summer intern, Krizelle Solidum, was supposed to be a pharmacist. Traditionally in her family, young people have three career choices: medical field, engineer or accountant. Solidum chose medicine. She spent over four years working full time at a credit union and attending college half time, majoring in health science. Then she had a realization. “I couldn’t imagine myself as doing this the rest of my life,” Solidum said. She enjoyed writing and “wanted to work with people” so she settled on journalism. This December, she will graduate from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and communications with a concentration in strategic communication. Solidum moved to Anchorage from the Philippines at
Krizelle Solidum
the age of eight. “I grew up an only child but I didn’t ever feel like an only child,” she said. Her grandmother had 14 children which meant Solidum was always surrounded by cousins and extended family. Solidum, who is part Filipino and part Arabian, said she was raised “immersed in Filipino culture.” She learned to cook from her grandmother and aunties. Her mother, who she currently lives with, doesn’t cook, she cleans. It’s a good match for Solidum who loves to bake. She is
currently learning breads and facetiously described herself as “carb glutting” during quarantine. When Solidum started applying for internships in early 2020, she learned that most of the programs had shut down as a result of the pandemic. Larry Persily, previous owner and publisher of the Skagway News, suggested she contact his former paper. Normally, the Skagway News intern lives in the small newspaper office apartment and receives a stipend. Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions and budgetary concerns, Solidum will report from Anchorage and work for free. Solidium said she isn’t Photo by Melinda Munson daunted by the distance and Rubber mulch at the Mollie Walsh Park will be replaced with playground grade wood chips this summer. lack of pay. She was grateful to find a way to earn credits towards graduation. Even remove the rubber mulch for was put down the community though she won’t have a tra- By Krizelle Solidum Responding to comments $98,854, Burnham said. was concerned about health ditional graduation ceremony from parents, the MunicipalWood chips were chosen impacts,” said Borough Manor internship, “I was lucky enough to be able to go to ity of Skagway will pull up from among several alter- ager Brad Ryan. Another reason wood chips college,” she said. the rubber mulch at Skagway natives for padding on playSolidum who School and Mollie Walsh grounds such as wood mulch, were chosen over rubber will be graduat- Park and replace the surfaces pea gravel and rubber mulch. mulch was the significant The natural wood chips cost difference. ing at 25, slight- with wood chips. The work will be done this typically last up to seven “Last fall’s bid costs for ly older than the traditional college summer, as part of a capital years and cost between $1.50 Jelly Bean Virgin Rubber student, wouldn’t improvement project spon- to $3 per square foot depend- Mulch was $300,830, Poured ing on the materials, size of in Place was in the range of change her jour- sored by the municipality. “We heard from parents area and installation. $308,000 to $317,000 and ney. Rubber mulch is made from Engineered Wood Fiber “I have a better who indicated that rubber appreciation for dust was on their children’s shredded pieces of 100% non- (made from the core of trees) the opportunities skin and was creating rings tire, wire-free, lead-free, non- was $152,500,” Burnham I’ve been given,” in their clothes dryer,” said toxic recycled rubber tiles. said. Assemblymember Steve The shredded rubber can last “In 1985, the original playshe said. Burnham, finance committee up to 20 years. The shredded ground material at the school Solidum hopes tiles often come from hospi- was wood chips and it was to become a trav- chair. Another problem was that tals and day cares, according maintained for years,” said eling journalist. Her family, leery some of the rubber tire mulch to the manufacturer, Jelly Burnham. The most important thing at first, is now has been spotted in Pullen Bean Rubber Mulch. Ultimately, community is to “work to maintain a proud to see her Creek and the woods surwork published rounding Mollie Walsh Park. members decided they want- non-toxic environment for Hamilton Construction of ed to stay away from the tox- the kids,” said School Superand hear her on the radio. Anchorage will deliver and ins of rubber. intendent Dr. Josh Coughran. The soon to be graduate “When the rubber mulch said her favorite part of being install the wood chips and a journalist is “you get to give a voice to those that don’t have a voice, or a platform.” Solidum will submit three New from John Straley articles for each Skagway News issue. She just started her long distance Skagway experience but she is already charmed. The third novel in the Cold Storage “I’ve never met so many series by the acclaimed Sitka author people that have been so wel••••• coming,” she said. Now open longer hours M-F, please Solidum is excited to “learn observe health safety rules in our store what it’s like to live in rural Alaska ... I’ve only known Early Summer Hours: 10:30am-4:30pm Monday-Friday Anchorage.” 907-983-3354 • store.skagwaybooks.com
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May 22, 2020
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THE SKAGWAY NEWS
The things we do Parade photos by Reba Hylton
Graduation Parade 2020
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
May 22, 2020
for our
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Hometown
‘We don’t want anyone to be hungry’ Skagway food bank prepared due to generous donations
By Melinda Munson Skagway’s food bank isn’t a warehouse full of donated food. It’s a phone call to any of the five local churches, whose leaders will then set up a credit at Fairway Market IGA. Ryan Mandeville, pastor of Skagway First Presbyterian Church, and board president of the Community Care Committee which runs the food program, says the service is “designed to be an easy way to get you through.” Individuals in need can get a $150 credit, families qualify for a $200 credit. According to Mandeville, there are generally five to 10 requests in the spring with a total of about 15 for the year. Food bank clients can vary from year-rounders who ran out of funds because of illness or an expensive house repair to newly arrived seasonal workers who spent more than they anticipated getting to Skagway. “We don’t see a difference,” Mandeville said. “...People need mercy and grace when things are hard.”
Volunteers at the May 8 White Pass & Yukon Route food drive accept donations.
The program is meant to fulfill short-term needs. Clients who come back a second time are advised to apply for food stamps and other resources. If there is a need for a third credit, church leaders make sure clients have contacted all available programs. Mandeville said no one has come back a fourth time. Normally, the Care Committee has $2,000 to $3,000 to fund a year’s worth of food. An increase in donations since COVID-19 brought the total to $7,000. On May 8, White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad sponsored a food drive which yielded a truck bed full of non-perishable food and $3,500 in community donations. White Pass matched those donations with a gift of $2,000, raising the food bank’s total balance to around $12,000. “We are the most prepared we have ever been,” Mandeville said. “We’ve got more than we’ve ever had in the bank.” So far, there have been less requests for help than in previous years. Mandeville attributes this to the lack of seasonal workers and generous unemployment insurance. He noted that the federal pandemic unemployment payments are scheduled to end July 25. “People are foreseeing a strong need at some point,” he said. Another aspect of the Community Care outreach is the food exchange, located in the Fellowship Hall, the green building behind the Presbyterian Church on 5th and Main. The food exchange grew out of the excess of non-perishable food left behind by seasonal workers. The exchange is a place to drop off extra food and shop for free. “The door is always open. You can swing by and grab food whenever you want,” Mandeville said. Karla Ray, Community Care board member and owner of Grizzly’s General, estimated that the food exchange salvages between $10-20,000 in food each fall. She picked up the check from White Pass following the food drive, where a minimum donation of $5 garnered a free White Pass hat. Because of COVID-19, the food drive was a drive-though affair with volunteers wearing masks and gloves. “It was a really creative way to involve the community,” Ray said. “That’s more money than we would operate with in two years. It’s going to be needed.” Ginny Cochran, better known as Grandma Ginny, also takes requests for food bank services and passes them on to church contacts. She enjoys the work she can do from home. “We don’t want anyone to be hungry,” she said.
Photos provided by Jacqui Taylor
May 22, 2020
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THE SKAGWAY NEWS
Alaskans find ‘quarantivities’ to keep busy while at home By Krizelle Solidum Though being stuck at home has created uncertainty and frustration for many, it has also prompted people to try “quarantivities” — fun or different activities families can do at home to make life a little brighter. Jaime Bricker, head of public relations at White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, was keeping up with her fourth grader and ninth grader’s homework. Now that the school year has ended, they’ve been trying out new baking recipes. Some of their favorites are monkey bread and fried bread. Bricker and her kids have also been doing a multitude of arts and crafts projects. A fun one is creating Mod Podge cardboard boxes using scrap fabric which they turn into gift baskets and wrapping paper. One positive of quarantine life has been family time with her kids that she wouldn’t get during a normal summer because her children would be out with their friends. Although family time has been great, Bricker said she misses her friends and people with whom she shares mutual interests. Anchorage resident Johanna Po loves to go on drives to chase sunsets. She’s also been writing daily reflections, poetry, memories from the past and song verses. Her reflections specifically focus around the differ-
ences she sees in how other countries around the world have been dealing with COVID-19. She’s been feeling grateful for all the travel opportunities she’s had in the past. Working from home full time keeps Po busy. Within the past year, she purchased a house which has given her various at-home projects. “I want to remind everyone that it’s important to support yourself first, whether that’s physically or mentally, then you can support others. Remember to always be kind,” Po said. Skagway Mayor Andrew Cremata has been busy doing yard work that he usually wouldn’t have time for if it weren’t for the quarantine. He’s been working on the garden, mowing, trimming the branches and just enjoying the beautiful weather. One book on his must-read list is “The Sky’s the Limit,” by Wayne Dyer, a self-help guide on how to positively cope with situations. “Everyone’s dealing with a lot of emotional stress and this book helps with dealing with the fear of the unknown,” Cremata said. Keeping his work and personal life separate has helped him cope with being at home. Anything mayoral-related he does over Zoom or a teleconference meeting. He doesn’t turn on the TV while working, and focuses on keeping a good balance of spending
time with family and friends. “This may be the only time in life that we can enjoy a peaceful quiet summer in Skagway,” Cremata said. Adriana Latonio, a University of Alaska Anchorage spring 2020 graduate, has been spending time playing piano and guitar. She’s using this time at home to learn new music by ear. “During the pandemic, I began getting back to what I was familiar with, and what made me realize my gift with music, and have been figuring out songs that interest me by ear,” Latonio said. Some of these tunes are “Don’t Talk Me Down,” by Jojo, “Impossible,” by Christina Aguilera, “God is a Woman,” by Ariana Grande and “Can You Blame Me,” by Kehlani. Latonio said being quarantined has been a blessing and a curse. She’s always been the type of person who lives to keep busy and be out and about. Now, she focuses on the positive in that she’s been given time to slow down, take a break, relax and really feel her emotions. “Always appreciate the little things in life and live life like there’s no tomorrow. You never know when things will change,” Latonio said. Cody Jennings, director of the Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau office, has been spending time on Netflix. Like many people, she’s watched the latest popular
Smoked Hooligan Recipe provided by Brad Ryan, borough manager.
Skagway’s hooligan run has come and gone. Here’s how to cook the greasy little guys. Head and gut hooligan. Brine for eight hours. (See brine recipe below.) Place on smoker for one hour prior to smoking. Smoke with alder chips for 24 to 36 hours.
Brine: • One gallon of water • One cup of salt (regular, non-iodized) • Two tablespoons brown sugar • Two tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • A bunch of black pepper • A bunch of garlic powder
Photo by Cynthia Tronrud
Emma Tronrud, age 3, passes her quarantine time reading a comic book. Jon Larson set up a table of free comics for National Comic Book Day on May 2.
series, “Tiger King.” Not being much of a baker, she’s been trying recipes for different sweet breads like banana and pumpkin. Being away from family and friends has been a challenge but “we knew that the alternative could be much worse and that the situation was only temporary,” Jennings said. Lee Snelgrove, a records representative at Nuvision Credit Union in Anchorage, has enjoyed watching all the “Star Wars” movies on Disney+ with his son. He’s also been taking a lot
more care of his mother. He goes grocery shopping for her every Saturday to make sure she doesn’t have to go out and risk her health. Snelgrove was deemed an “essential worker” so he works at the credit union every day, which is why he wants to remind everyone that the virus is real and to remember to wear gloves and masks to keep safe. Bricker said she wants to share her gratitude toward the Skagway community. Specifically, the school district and food bank for their supportive work for so many people.
Enjoying our biweekly recipes? Have a seasonal recipe to share? Submit them to editor@skagwaynews.com. Your neighbors will love it.
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
Page 9
May 22, 2020
Church provides ‘full belly, happy heart’ with weekly burger feeds By Melinda Munson Wednesdays are for hamburger lovers. That’s the day Life Link Fellowship Church fires up their two grills and provides free burgers to the community. The tradition started 12 years ago. Usually, the small yellow church (formerly a garage) opens its doors and yard to anyone who wants to eat and visit. In the summer, that can mean 250 people. Church members bring side dishes and desserts. Founder and pastor Ray Leggett, also Sagway’s police chief, brings his grill skills. The event is an opportunity for seasonal workers, year-rounders, church members and non-church members to socialize. “I don’t know that anyone has had a bad time,” Leggett said. “We’re not a stick in the mud group.” With COVID-19 and social distancing, the burger feed had to adapt. Instead of depending on a core of steadfast volunteers, Leggett’s family does all of the work in masks and gloves. Leggett cooks the burgers with his 18-year-old son, Matthew. His wife, Cheri, delivers the brown bags of burgers and chips with their son, 15-yearold son Timothy, who drives since he got his permit. Chezare Leipold, a burger feed regular, misses the summer time fun. “It’s a fellowship for the community where everyone is welcome and it gives the busy summer time locals a time to slow down and enjoy a bit of the fun with their family and friends,” she said. Although the dinners are run by a church, Leggett promised no one has to hear
a sermon. “No one is ever religiously accosted,” joked Troy Carsten who has been spending his summers in Skagway since 2006. When they’re in town, he and his wife, Cheryl, volunteer at the burger feed each week. “We don’t feel like tourists,” said the Texan. “It’s an incredible opportunity to love people.” Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, the Carstens are unsure if they’ll be able to make it to Skagway this summer. When the burger feed first Photo by Melinda Munson started, the Leggett family Ray Leggett, head of Life Link Fellowship Church, works two grills as he prepares for a Wednesday Burgcovered the costs. Now it’s er Feed. predominantly funded by Life Link Church with the help of Submitted by Skagway Police Department community donations. “It’s kind of like running Police & Fire Blotter a restaurant,” Leggett said. When supplies for the feed May 6 don’t arrive on the barge as expected, the community Fire personnel responded to a steps in. One time, the dinfire alarm on Spring Street. ner featured hamburger patMay 8 ties borrowed from The Elks Club and various restaurants. Police assisted a motorist Leggett gave a nod of apprewith jumping their battery. ciation to Fairway Market May 10 IGA. “They have been wonderPolice and fire personnel resful,” he said. “That store bent cued a cat stuck in a tree. over backwards to help us.” May 12 Leipold said there’s something for everyone at the Police helped a motorist weekly meals. regain entry to their locked “Cheri and Ray have alvehicle. ways gone above and beyond. EMS assisted Airlift NorthThey even make sure to have west with a medevac from veggie burgers, chicken burgthe clinic. ers and hot dogs for those that don’t do burgers … When May 13 you leave, you leave with a A bag of items found at the full belly, a happy heart and municipal rifle range was a smile on your face,” said turned into the police station. Leipold. “It’s all about having a May 14 good time. I miss it like craEMS responded to a medical zy,” Leggett said. emergency. May 16 EMS responded to a medical emergency. May 17 Police helped a motorist regain entry to their locked vehicle. Fire personnel responded to a fire alarm on Broadway Street. Provided by Chezare Leipold
Ayden (12), Ashton (9) and Alexander (12) enjoy burgers delivered by the Leggett Family on Wednesday.
At approximately 10:15 p.m. on May 10, a resident called Skagway Fire Dispatch to ask for assistance retrieving their cat named, Kitty. The feline had been missing for three days and was found stuck 25 feet up a tree. Fire Department personnel responded and were able to remove Kitty from the tree utilizing a 24 foot extension ladder. Chief Rau, Captain Ackerman and medic personnel Myers and Taylor were able to assist Myers in retrieving Kitty safely. She was returned to her family without incident.
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Family Fun Page - print and share 36 37 38 39 40
Across 1 “ --- now or never”
4 9 10 12 13 14 16 17 18 20 22 26 28 29 32 34
Hard on the nose Vast amount Arranged for voices Pie-crust ingredient Only state with two official languages Puncture Caltech, for ex. Sparse fluid P --- puzzle A freckle past --Once more Exultation Attempt Comedienne née Molinsky Commuter computer Taking the place
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
May 22, 2020
Outer covering Softened “Halt, --- fire!” Prolonged blockade Advent mo.
Down 1 Prophetic Bible book 2 Blessed Mother 3 --- City (Baghdad district) 4 Pains 5 Half a dance, perhaps 6 Quarreling 7 Pakistan neighbor 8 Politician’s stand? 11 Snockered 12 Where to find swinger Michelle
Wie 15 Songwriter --- Perkins 19 UN nuclear watchdog 21 Set on fire 23 What one goes around in 24 Subtly sarcastic 25 Big Apple corps 27 Cleverly avoid 29 Dandy beginning? 30 Singles 31 Slimming drug 33 Urge along 35 Brain surgeon’s test equipment
The keys will be posted in the next issue.
Scavenger Hunt The Skagway News
Find these items and snap a picture! You could win a $25 gift certificate to Glacial Coffeehouse. 1. Heart shaped rock 2. Three bears from three different windows 3. Go on a hike and take a picture. 4. Christmas lights
J T I A W D N F L A G
A D R H A B A S T E R
S U I I R Y L E U K S
M N S I N P U M S O T
I Y A W I P Y A M O H
N R U K C O T S U J R
E A E C A P O E S E I
R N L S C C V S K I F
K N I P E A D O X P T
B A L M G D P I L U T
J C Y A A C A C I A Z Sudoku
5. The place you can buy a replica of a news story describing Soapy Smith’s last day
Acacia
Flowers Wordsearch Cosmos May Stock
6. Where the mayor spends a lot of time
Agave
Daisy
Musk
Thrift
7. Someone in a tu-tu (at least 6-feet away)
Arnica
Flag
Pink
Tulip
Arum
Geum
Poker
Whin
Aster
Iris
Poppy
Yucca
Balm
Ixia
Reseda
Briar
Jasmine
Rose
Canna
Lily
Sesame
8. A business that is still open 9. A window with a candle in it 10. An outdoor clock
Open to Skagway residents age 17 and younger. The first person to submit all photos from the list: to melinda@skagwaynews.com (in a single email) wins a $25 gift certificate to Glacial Coffeehouse.
Color Me!
Pictures must be taken outside.
May 8 answer keys
“Oh, oh. We’re about to have a whale of a time!”
THE SKAGWAY NEWS COMMUNITY CALENDAR Library Hours: See the schedule for curbside service 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. Incinerator Hours Tues/Thurs 1 - 3 p.m. 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. School closed for the rest of the year. See www.skagway.org for borough meeting updates. Email Updates & New Events:editor@skagwaynews.com
May 22, 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, April 22 , 2020 FREE PERSONAL CLASSIFIEDS up to 25 words! CALL (907)983-2354 (restrictions apply)
JOBS-OPPORTUNITIES CAREGIVER NEEDED - 5 Days / Week – 5 Hours/ Day – Salary $20 per Hour. For more details about the position, email Mr. Patrick (patdolan18@gmail.com) 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
CLASSIFIEDS 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 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)
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 ON BROADWAY for lease. See info at: www. skagwayrealestate.net. (1cb)
MARKETPLACE
BROADWAY BULLETIN BOARD Juneau Cooperative Extension is offering free distance-deliv-
ered food business and food preservation. Participants from any location may register at www.uaf.edu/ces/juneau to receive a Zoom link. The remaining classes include:
• All About the Basil: Preserving Herbs, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., May 30 • Canning Wild Berries, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., June 13
. For more information contact Lewis at sarah.lewis@alaska.edu.
RECREATION CTR SCHED Skagway Recreation Center • 12th & Main • 983-2679 Cardio • Weight Room • Locker Rooms • Showers • Rock Wall
The Recreation Center is closed until further notice due to COVID-19.
The 2020 Hoop Camp is on schedule with Coach Ostenik this summer Camp dates are July 13-16, 2020. The camp is optimistic that it will go on as planned with additional health and safety protocols. The camp is looking at new formatting and want to get an idea of the numbers attending in order to prepare.
Hoop Camp is available for all kids entering grades K - 12 in the fall of 2020. Campers do not need to be students of Skagway School. Registration for camp is $20 per camper. The camp is looking into the possibility of waving the fee this year.
Email Cindy O’Daniel at cindyod22@yahoo.com with questions or a list of campers from your household, their grade this fall and your preferred method of communication.
Wash your hands.
SKAGWAY WORSHIP DIRECTORY Please contact each worship location for their updated 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.
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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)
May 22, 2020
Page 12
THE SKAGWAY NEWS
Skagway self-isolation for travelers extended to June 4 continued from FRONT page
six feet of any customer. • MOS will endeavor to “place and maintain mask and hand sanitizer stations at every active port of entry.” • MOS will “provide and maintain” hand sanitizer stations outside of businesses open to the public as soon as possible. Currently, there are no legal ramifications for disregarding self-isolation guidelines or any other measures in Resolution 20-17R. “Skagway is not becoming Hawaii and arresting travellers who come here because they will not self isolate,” Burnham said. He empha-
sized the resolution “is not setting any kind of fine or punishment” and pointed to Section 3 of the resolution, which outlines a process the Assembly would have to undergo should they feel consequences were warranted in the future. In Mayor Andrew Cremata’s May 21 report, he posed the question: “If residents are already ignoring the simple health protocols like social distancing, how will we enforce a toothless quarantine mandate?” Assemblymember Orion Hanson was opposed to a continuation of the 14-day self-isolation, which at some
points in the meeting was proposed to extend until June 18. “I see this as crazy, that we’re just being overly restrictive and reactive,” he said. He noted it had been a long winter with The Klondike Highway closed due to avalanches and the ferry system out of service. “Quite frankly, I think that people are cracking,” Hanson said, noting his concern for the community’s mental health and residents who are unable to seek medical care in Juneau because they don’t have the means to self-isolate Photo by Melinda Munson upon their return. Emily Deach, borough clerk, answers procedural questions at the May 21 Assembly Meeting.
Mallott grew up in small towns, connected to Alaska Natives in a big state continued from FRONT page
families spending holidays and visiting together. Kito’s father, Sam Kito Jr, attended St. Pious as well, albeit prior to Mallott’s attendance. Kito Jr. and Mallott became friends somewhere along the line, often taking fishing trips and adventures together. Kito says when he was 12 or 13, Mallott and Kito Jr. took him along on a gillnetter up towards Litya Bay near Yakutat, Mallott’s hometown. The waters were rough, but the adventure was memorable. “It was a good trip,” said Kito. Kito remembers his dad and Mallott visiting on the porch catching up on people around Southeast in Craig,
Ketchikan and other towns. “Southeast is a large community separated by water,” said Kito. “People lived and worked on the water. It was fishing and basketball that brought people together.” Mallott was Tlingit from Yakutat, the Kito’s were Tlingit and Japanese from Kake. “It was AFN that was the big connector,” Kito said. His dad and Mallott became close with other Alaska Native leaders around the state like Willie Hensley and Ivan Ivan. Mallott served as President of the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN). In 1994 he was elected mayor of Juneau. He eventually resigned to serve as the executive director of the Alaska Permanent
Fund Corporation (APFC). He was appointed to the board of directors of APFC by Gov. Jay Hammond in 1982. In 2014, Mallott won the Democratic primary for governor. In September of that year, he and independent candidate, Bill Walker, joined forces with the blessing of the Alaska Democratic Party and won the gubernatorial election. Mallott willingly resigned near the end of the term due to an incident at a social event that remained quiet. Mallott’s service to Alaska began in Alaska small towns like Yakatat, Skagway and Sitka. His friendships and connections stretched the entire state through AFN, politics and travel. He and his
Photo by Sam Kito III
Former Lt. Gov. Bryon Mallott speaks at a rally outside the state capitol building.
wife, Toni, lived in Juneau to Anchorage. He died the where she taught school. next day. He was 77. They raised five children. City of the New Century by Mallott suffered a heart at- Skagway, William “Jeff” Brady was used for St. tack on May 7 and was flown Pious X Mission references.