School is Back in Session

Back to school

Fall is in the air, and school has started for students in northern Southeast Alaska.  A very big welcome to the teachers, staff, students, and families that have transitioned back to school!  While summer has passed, it is exciting to think about students and teachers getting to know their new classes and gearing up for the year ahead.  It is time to enjoy those early morning swim practices, after school activities, and evenings of homework.  With school in full swing again, please be aware of changes on the roads: watch for school buses, keep an eye out for speed limits in school zones, buckle up, and put away your cell phones.

The new Xunaa Shuká Hít opening in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.

Xunaa Shuká Hít - Huna Tribal House Return to Homeland

On the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service (NPS), hundreds of people attended the dedication of the Xunaa Shuká Hít – the Huna Tribal House in the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.  I joined the gathering of Huna Tlingit, NPS, the Hoonah Indian Association, friends, family, and supporters to celebrate this building that represents all four of the original clans from Glacier Bay.  The Tribal House represents a physical link, and recognition of the heritage the people of Hoonah have with beauty and bounty of Glacier Bay.  I look forward to the potential of annual events in the Park to recognize the importance of this historic connection.

Left: boats arriving for the dedication of the Xunaa Shuká Hít.  Right: I was honored to offer welcoming remarks during the ceremony.

Opportunities for public comment on education

Juneau will welcome the Alaska Board of Education (Sept. 13-14, agenda linked here) and the University of Alaska Board of Regents (Sept. 15-16, agendalinked here).  Both bodies will host public comment opportunities, and I encourage you to share your perspective with them as they discuss and plan for the future of education in Alaska.

·         Board of Education public comment: Tuesday, September 13, 8:15am, call in number 1-844-586-9085
·         Board of Regents public comment: Thursday, Sept. 15, 5:30pm, UAS Student Recreation Center

Community events

Check out some of the happenings around the district:  

HAINES 
·         September 10: Farmer's Market, Southeast Alaska State Fair Grounds 
·         September 23: Musica Fantasia, 7pm

JUNEAU 
·         September 14: Mudrooms, 7-8:30pm
·         September 15-24: AWARE Advocacy Training
·         September 17: Discover Eaglecrest Day, 10am – 3pm
·         September 17: Capital Brewfest, 1pm - 5pm
·         September 24: Who's Your Diva,  7pm

KLUKWAN
·         September 10: Klukwan Blueberry Festival, all day

SKAGWAY  
·         September 9-10: Klondike Road Relay is this weekend.  If you’re taking part: good luck, be safe and have fun!
·         October 14-16: Skagway Fall Festival

Left: Hazel picking blueberries.  Right: Hazel with three of her four children: Keitsie, Emily, & Josephine. 
Photos courtesy of Mikki Chanlder and Hazel Englund.

Happy Birthday to Hazel Englund!

I want to take an opportunity to wish a very happy birthday to Hazel Englund of Haines – this year marks her 100th birthday!  Hazel was born and raised in Haines, Alaska where she still lives and gardens today. Her granddaughter, Mikki Chandler, wrote a story about Hazel and included wonderful pictures from historic Haines – you can read the story here.  Happy Birthday to a true Alaskan sourdough!

With Regards,

Sam Kito III