Subscribe
Share
Share
Embed
Problem Corner is an iconic radio show that has become a vibrant community hub. Callers engage in a wide array of discussions, ranging from local political debates to community commentary and casual advertisements for listeners looking to buy, sell, or trade personal items.
The show's rich history is marked by its association with several prominent local figures. Notably, Dennis Egan, a former mayor of Juneau, was a key personality in shaping the show's direction in the 1980s.
As a testament to its enduring relevance and appeal, "Problem Corner" has etched its name in the annals of Alaskan broadcasting history. It's not just a radio show but a cultural landmark, celebrated for being the longest-running radio show in Alaska.
Welcome to Problem Quarter, Alaska's longest running radio show presented each weekday by Alaska Laundry and Dry Cleaning. Connect, share, discuss the topics that matter as you know in all of Southeast Alaska. Join the conversation at (907) 586-1800 and online at kinyradio.com.
Speaker 2:And this is Problem Corner thirteen minutes after the hour this Monday April. Spring is here in Juneau and I'm Ben Brown. I'm here with Justin Miller in the Gold Belt Tram Studio and my friend Susan Bell who's the vice president for special operations at Hunotom Corporation.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. Good morning. Good Special initiatives, which means what is what are the what are the challenging things that we needed to get done?
Speaker 2:Right. Special ops sounds a little more military. Special initiative sounds a little more civilian, a little less confrontational. And so forgive me for being inventive with your title. But you definitely do have a very special initiative going on right now, one that's been in the news a lot lately, and some progress has been made since last time you were on the show, and that would be the long awaited Auk Landing.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. I've been working first for many years as a contractor to Huna Totem and was on the advisory board that they've constituted a couple of times. And starting in September, I came into the organization as an employee, and it's been really, really gratifying. We've had a lot of public support, a lot of great ideas. We've adjusted the project along the way, and we're at a critical milestone today.
Speaker 2:Excellent. And so because there's an assembly meeting tonight.
Speaker 3:Tonight at the regular Juno CBJ assembly at 07:00, Under the public hearing portion of the meeting, the ordinance will be taken up. There'll be public testimony. And this ordinance, if it passes, will be the assembly's approval of the dock. Also, it what essentially what the, ordinance does is it authorizes the city manager to negotiate a Tideland lease with Huna Totem. And that's a critical piece because, obviously, when we construct the dock and the uplands, as it extends in the water, it crosses CBJ lands and also state lands.
Speaker 3:So there's one more action item that's in the packet tonight, and that is a resolution for the assembly to pursue those state lands to be conveyed to the city. But the bigger, you know, the bigger critical issue is that ordinance that authorizes a city manager to negotiate the lease.
Speaker 2:And the long standing policy of the state of Alaska through the Alaska Department of Natural Resources for decades has been to convey tidelands to first of municipal governments, specifically the unified home rural municipalities, which is what the city and borough of Juneau is, which is the highest most powerful form of local government under title 29 in Alaska statute. So Juneau has a long successful history out at T Harbor. Those were once state lands. That's all city lands now that is in fact rented to the folks who run the T Harbor Dock. So that probably is gonna be more formulaic than tonight's But
Speaker 3:it's important that the T's are proverbial I's are dotted and T's are crossed. Absolutely. There's a resolution and a lease exhibit in the packet. It's something that needs to be formally requested by the city.
Speaker 2:Excellent. So you said a moment ago, Susan, that a few things have changed since the last time you were on the air. That includes some good words from our friends at the Coast Guard about how this will fit into their long term plans.
Speaker 3:Well, thanks for mentioning that. One of the things that's really clear is that Huna Totem has been talking with the Coast Guard representatives locally and in DC really for years. Know, this project has been ongoing, written indication from the Coast Guard that the Auk Landing dock does not impede Juno's ability to home port that icebreaker. So, you know, the one that we know about that will be coming soon is the Storis. There may be and, of course, the Coast Guard has other cutters, buoy tenders, other vessels, and maybe at some point in our future, we'll have more icebreakers.
Speaker 3:But that was something that, in some ways, was kind of a tall order because we know the Coast Guard is definitely engaged, but they typically, their review and comment period is when the US Army Corps of Engineers initiates the federal review process. So, the fact that we were able to get a letter, it's in the packet, it both speaks to the coordination between Huna Totem and the Coast Guard, their support for where we are with our conceptual plans, and a desire not only to just cooperate and share information, but in the near term, if this, we're likely in a faster pace than the Coast Guard as they look at their own docks. And the letter says what they've been telling us verbally, which is they'd like the opportunity to dock the Storis at Hawk Landing in the interims. And we are absolutely accommodating.
Speaker 2:Well, that's a win win situation right there, absolutely. And when you say that their process will be a little slower, I think that's diplomatically phrasing it. Army Corps review, federal review process, National Environmental Policy Act, all that stuff takes tons and tons of time, which you don't have. We don't have them. Who doesn't We
Speaker 3:are at this point, and again, appreciate that a lot of our business community, especially the construction industry spoke a month or so ago at an assembly meeting. I think it was the Lands Committee. But just talking about the construction season is upon us and it's short. So, our plan is, again, assuming that we have adoption of this ordinance, is that we will use the rest of 2025 and 'twenty six to complete the design, to do the construction prep, all of the more detailed engineering and get buildings so that we can be open for the 2027 season. And also, again, not that I'm an expert on Coast Guard processes, but if we recognize that the funding, you know, the STORIS was acquired, that accelerated a process that in other times might have been many years of kind of design and planning and preparation for the facility itself here in Juneau, as well as, you know, what are the needs of the vessel?
Speaker 3:So, the Coast Guard has the storis, it's coming to Juneau, and we want to be as accommodating as possible.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. And of course, will give credit to Senator Sullivan, Senator Murkowski, Representative Paltola, and I know Representative Begich, since he's been sworn into office, have really been trying to make sure the Coast Guard understands with crystal clarity how important that is to Alaska generally and to Alaska's capital city specifically. So it's definitely been a team effort and you know we at the Juno Chamber of Commerce have been incredibly supportive of both the Coast Guard's home port and the icebreaker here and also Avoc Landing because we really see the incredible value of diversifying and improving the infrastructure we offer to our visitors and giving them a more user friendly place to get off a boat that also serves local community needs year round. So let's talk about the local community needs that are going be so much better served by Auk Landing.
Speaker 3:Well, absolutely. Well, first of all, with the five ship cap that we have in our passenger caps, we have a lot of ships still at anchor. We expect 59 ships this summer to be at anchor, over 80 are in the schedule for 2026. And when we built this stock, first of all, there's a lot of, you know, harbor safety, passenger convenience, and environmental benefits of getting a ship that's at anchor, working hard to stay in place, and getting that ship from anchor to a dock.
Speaker 2:Yeah, burning fuel to stay in one place, basically.
Speaker 3:So, we get the ships that are at anchor to a dock, the next thing that happens is that passengers have a lot more time and convenience because they're just like us. Nobody wants to stand in more lines than necessary. And when they're at anchor, they need to ride those little tender vessels to and from the shore. And so, they tend to come off, do their tours, check out the community, but they don't want to miss their vessel. They don't want to stand in a long line, and it ends up shorting the time, their experience, and their expenditures in our communities.
Speaker 3:So, so there's just this first and foremost, it's harbor safety, it's passenger service, guest experience, and economics. But the location of Auk Landing, which is on Whittier Street and Eagan, adjacent to the Coast Guard property and the lot that many of us have known for decades is the sub port, it will reduce vehicular and passenger pedestrian congestion in downtown.
Speaker 2:Right, especially South Of Manila Square, basically, is really where it's just, you know, you can't if you're a local, it's like, do I really wanna drive the rocked up when there are five ships in? Because it's hard to physically get there and back. And if you're in a hurry, oh, I'll just pop over to Taco Smokery's. Not so much. So this is going to make that situation much better.
Speaker 3:Every other dock, you need to drive through that downtown corridor twice. For every drop off and every pickup, you're making that loop. And so again, with a signalized intersection already there with our traffic studies that were done by Dowell engineers, we know this is going to be easy in and out for the vehicles.
Speaker 2:Right. And that's so this is really a huge improvement. And so this is where Tracy's Crab Shack is. If you've been looking, Tracy's been putting up the tents. So she's getting ready for another great season there.
Speaker 2:But in the future, there's going to be a permanent structure there. So let's talk a little bit about the new cultural center, Preston and the Box of Daylight.
Speaker 3:Well, Juneau residents may recognize the name Preston Singletary. If you've walked into the Walter Sobeleft building and been into the little clan house that's inside of that gorgeous building, the glass screen, so the house screen and the four house posts, they have traditional form line art, but they are made of glass. And they were made by Preston Singletary, a world renowned glass artist who has Tlingit ties to our region.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. Preston Singletary is a really cool dude. I've met him many times. I was actually there the day that those house posts got uncrated. Coincidentally, Jane Chu, then the chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, was visiting Alaska, in my capacity as State Arts Council Chairman.
Speaker 2:I took her by there that day. We knew Preston was going to be there. We didn't know that we're going be literally getting uncrated. Preston talked a little bit about it to Doctor. Chew and said that he wanted, when he was a kid, wanted to grow up and be a rock and roll star.
Speaker 2:It turns out he's actually also a rock and roll star too. He's a very talented musician. I I discovered that that day. But anyhow, if you haven't gone by the Clown House at the Sobelow Building to check those out, then you should because he's gonna be doing something wonderful for Rock Landing.
Speaker 3:Well, Preston, he has an exhibit that is continuing to travel. It is Raven in the Box of Daylight. So, this traditional story that is told in many ways by our Tlingit people in the region. He created an exhibit at the Tacoma Museum of Glass. The exhibit then went to the Smithsonian and spent about a year there.
Speaker 2:I saw it at the National Museum of the American Indian on the mall down at the end towards the Botanic Garden. It was an amazing, amazing exhibit. Super, super cool.
Speaker 3:And it's continued to travel. It's going to be in Spokane. I think it's in mid May that it's moving to Spokane. So, it's just a perfect alliance because he created this exhibit. He is and, you know, the bottom line is it's gonna make its permanent home right here in Juneau at Aucklanding, we couldn't be happier.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. Well, we actually have our first call of the day, Susan. So so much information, so much good news, but let's go ahead and take our caller here on Problem Corner. Hope and they got cut off. So if you would like to call back, the number is, as people know, (907) 586-1800.
Speaker 2:Do give us a callback if you want to talk about Aucklanding, that's great. Or if you have something you want to buy or sell or comment about local, state, national, international goings on, we converse about everything here on Proudler Corner. We're ecumenical, omnipresent, I don't know. We're here having a good time on a Monday morning. Please do call back if you just got cut off.
Speaker 2:Well, Susan, it's very exciting. So so the box of daylight's gonna be there temporarily, but for how long?
Speaker 3:It's going to make its permanent home right here. It is he he created the exhibit. Wow. We have signed an MOU with Preston. With that, we sent a little press release out.
Speaker 3:Think just in the last week. This is fresh news.
Speaker 2:I apparently didn't read it carefully enough because I knew it was coming. I just didn't realize this is where it's gonna after its world travels, it's gonna land there and stay there and that's amazing.
Speaker 3:We're really excited about it. And again, has Tlingit roots in the region. Preston, in addition to glass exhibits that we just mentioned, he's also a trustee with Sea Alaska Heritage Institute. And so, travels regularly here. He's part of helping SHI create their tremendous impact on language, culture, and arts in the region.
Speaker 3:So, his ties are deep, and this will be its permanent home. As I said, we couldn't be more thrilled. And as you mentioned, he is a very talented musician. Have, getting a little ahead of myself, I've said, well, maybe we need his band Kuik, which has other regional musicians at the dedication.
Speaker 2:Think that is a
Speaker 3:Wouldn't that be fun of us?
Speaker 2:That's a really, really good idea. Anything I can do to help, please let me know. I'm a huge, huge Preston Singletary fan. I actually just got an email this morning that Rasmussen Foundation's Individual Artist Awards are back after a hiatus. He's definitely been a Rasmussen individual artist award recipient, is a prior recipient.
Speaker 2:So really great news about that. If you are interested in going and seeing a piece of Preston Singletary's work, there are a few at the Alaska State Museum and absolutely at the museum up in Anchorage as well. So, I would pop in. He does glass hats.
Speaker 3:They're gorgeous. I told him that as we started talking in December, '1 of the first pieces that I remember being aware of his art was actually in Haines at John Spencer's little gallery. And there was a friendship there that is also related to glass and art. But I remember seeing one of those etched glass hats that looked like a traditional cedar bark hat or spruce root hat. I wish, I mean, at the time, at my age, I would've probably had to sell a vehicle, but I wish I would've because it struck me and I never knew I'd be in this kind of relationship and helping him bring that collection here.
Speaker 3:But he also has some smaller accessible retail pieces in SHI's gallery downtown. So again, some people may have seen his work and not realized it, but you can look on his website.
Speaker 2:It's very unique. But, it is also not inexpensive. The larger pieces are not affordable for most folks. But, that's why it's beautiful that we have museum pieces, that there are some smaller, more affordable ones available at the SAHI shop. And most importantly, that the box of daylight is gonna be permanently housed at Oc Landing.
Speaker 3:It is more than 60 pieces in this collection that as you move through the exhibit, and I've seen videos on it. I've seen the book. I have not seen it in person, so I welcome any comments you have, but it's very moving.
Speaker 2:I probably have some photos in my phone actually because I just remember being at the NMAI and just I was and I actually didn't know it was going to be there when I happened to be in Washington that time. Well, we're going to take a break and hear from some of our sponsors in a moment here. Then we'll come back and keep on talking about Auk Landing, other good things happening in our community. But for now, Justin, let's hear from some of the folks who helped make this radio show possible.
Speaker 4:Alright. We'll be back with more Problem Corner here on KINY.
Speaker 5:At Alaska Marine Lines, you and your business are the first priority. Alaska Marine Lines is dedicated to providing essential transportation solutions to the Southeast Alaska communities they serve. They pride themselves on providing excellent customer service, and they appreciate the opportunity to serve you with their twice a week barge service to Southeast Alaska from Seattle. Please visit the website at shipaml.com for details. And thank you for choosing Alaska Marine Lines.
Speaker 5:Hey, Juno. Ever wonder what makes our town unique? It's the stories of our own local shops and hardworking neighbors. Look Local First shines a spotlight on the places you love. Discover the heart and soul behind Juno's storefronts from the oldest bookshop to the newest cafe.
Speaker 5:Join us in celebrating the spirit of our community one story at a time. Stay local. Stay connected only here on KINY. For more information on how to have your business featured, call (907) 586-3630.
Speaker 1:That. We're able to
Speaker 7:that.
Speaker 1:Parts. Protect your home and
Speaker 7:auto with a bundle from Progressive so you can stop worrying about
Speaker 5:them and invent new things
Speaker 7:to worry about, like snakes in your bedroom. Sure. That sounds incredibly irrational, but now that we've mentioned it, you are a little worried. The odds of one snake, let alone snakes, plural, are so slim that you might wanna check. Oh, you're not near your bedroom.
Speaker 7:Guess you'll just have to sit there and worry about it. So let Progressive protect your home and auto because you've got enough to worry about. Progressive casualty insurance company affiliates not available in all states.
Speaker 1:Local owned and operated, KINY. The news you need, the music you love.
Speaker 8:This is a special report from ABC News. I'm Michelle Fransen. A wave of tariffs impacting the markets around the world with sell offs not seen in nearly fifteen years. President Trump's tariffs on imports has economists, lawmakers, and leaders concerned. The president meeting this hour with Israel's Prime Minister at the White House both discussing the collapse of Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, but Israel is still facing tariffs too even though they removed duties on US goods.
Speaker 8:ABC's Alexis Christoffers has more on the outcome.
Speaker 9:I think a lot's gonna depend on how that meeting goes. What is the vibe investors get from that? Is president Trump willing to negotiate? And if so, by how much?
Speaker 8:Economists say the back and forth tariffs and uncertainty in the markets could spark a recession. President Trump insists his policies will be good for The US in the long run and likened any pain by tariffs to taking medicine. Some lawmakers, even supporters of Trump, say tariffs will hurt The US. This is ABC News.
Speaker 10:Looking to save money on your electric bill? AEL and P suggests lowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees and adding low flow faucet aerators and showerheads. Also make sure your water heater is functioning properly and is leak free. Hot water leaks can cause a sharp rise in your electric bill. For more ways to save, visit aelp.com.
Speaker 10:Responsible, reliable, renewable, AEL and P.
Speaker 11:Remember when they took their first steps? One day, they'll be taking steps toward their future career. An Alaska five two nine account helps you prepare for that journey now. Whether it's college, trade school, or beyond, invest in their future education expenses today because their future starts with you. To learn about Alaska five twenty nine, its investment objectives, risks, costs, carefully read the official statement available at alaska529plan.com.
Speaker 11:1 plan, many paths.
Speaker 12:Checkmate Pawn has moved to the airport shopping center next to Friends of the Library conveniently located just behind Donna's restaurant. Discover incredible deals on jewelry, electronics, and one of a kind treasures at our new spot. Whether you're hunting for something special or upgrading your essentials, Checkmate Pawn is your destination for quality and value. Stop by today and see why everyone's raving about us. Amazing deals are waiting.
Speaker 12:Don't let them slip away. Visit us today at 9131 Glacier Highway. Your next great find is just around the corner.
Speaker 1:You're listening to Problem Corner on KINY, bringing neighbors together for generations. From the days of Dennis Egan to today, we're proud to continue of lively debates, community insights, and local connections here on KINY.
Speaker 2:And it is a storied show, Problem Corner. I was in up Anchorage this past week doing our show, Perseverance, the Thanksgiving play, And I went to KLEF, which is the private commercial station up there to do a radio spot. Rick Goodfellow, who founded KLEF, showed me a picture in his office, his little studio, and said, know, that's me at the original KINY. And this was like back in nineteen sixty something I think. So he was definitely here when Dennis was on the air and lots and lots of folks have contributed to this show over the years.
Speaker 2:So it's a privilege and an honor to be back here Monday April, Problem Corner. I'm Ben Brown here with Justin Miller in the Gold Belt Tram Studio and Susan Bell from Huna Totem. And we're talking about Auk Landing and all the strides that have been made towards that project becoming a reality in the next couple of years. One thing I want to talk a little bit more about that's a little wonky, but I think is important because it has environmental, public safety, and operational benefits is vessel alignment.
Speaker 3:Well, one of the things that we shared at the February lands committee was a navigability study. And Marine Exchange, what a wonderful local asset that we have here. Marine Exchange had led that working with P and D engineers. And that basically looked at our physical structures. It looked at the traffic that they've been tracking large cruise ships, fishing vessels, tugs, you know, just, you know, everything that's happening in our harbor.
Speaker 3:It's a busy place. And then also float plane traffic. So that was required by the Planning Commission that we do that navigability study. But we took it a step further. And again, Marine Exchange and PND led on this, and we did a vessel simulation study.
Speaker 3:It was a week of March 17, and it was conducted at the wonderful vessel simulation facility that UAS has at the Ketchikan Campus. A lot of other industry you know, state and federal agencies use this, but it was just wonderful because we reached out, you know, Marine Exchange led this, reached out to marine pilots, to cruise ship captains, and asked them where they wanted to hold, you know, because we were flexible. It could have been done in Seattle, could be done in Ketchikan or at Avtec and Seward, but, you know, they know this facility. And you can really model if you have the, you you can model any vessel in any port. And so, in this week of vessel simulations, I believe they did 19 different approaches.
Speaker 3:And some of it was to look at, as PND engineers our project team are looking at the dock alignment, we want to be sure that it is something that is safe, that it works and is compatible with other docks. And so, they did, first of all, modeling at five degree angles, few different dock alignments, taking in account the wind and the wave and Lawson Creek, which has a plume of water coming out. So, I mean, you want to do that. They also then modeled bringing cruise ships into the other docks and looked at what the access would be for the Coast Guard. So, we now have, you know, that work done.
Speaker 3:We've shared that rapport with key contacts. Again, it's just to make sure that this is ultimately safe for the ships to come in, that we're optimizing the talent that we have locally with people that are in the marine industry, and that it works for the other docs. So, like I said, we were required to do that first step. We took it to a next level.
Speaker 2:Well, that's very proactive of you because obviously you want this facility to be an enhancement in the water and on the land, on the other side of the channel and on the Juno side. And with the forethought and the planning and the extra investment of resources and analysis, it's much like you're to achieve that outcome.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. Huna Totem also has another dock project that's in the works in Clowak. And I don't know that a lot of people here are aware of that, but we similarly did vessel simulations, but because that's so much less known, that one was conducted in Seattle and our folks are at Sea Trade, which we can talk about in a minute and sharing that information. But yeah, just it's one of the things that I credit, you know, when we solicited feedback from the public that included people, you know, that included people in in the cruise industry and the marine pilots that attended CBJ's open houses in January. We had over, really, I would say 200 people at the evening and midday open house.
Speaker 3:And that's one of the things that their feedback really solidified this idea that we had, which is let's take this a step further. Let's get their actual hands on driving the ships in. What can they tell us so that we optimize this?
Speaker 2:Very good. Well, it's really going to be an exciting project. And again, tonight the assembly will be taking public testimony on the issue of negotiating a lease with Hunar Totem Corporation. Once that vote is taken and assembly approval is in place, then the city manager will work with the CBJ Law Department to negotiate a lease with Huna Totem. And then once that lease is signed and there's actually a vested property of interest on the part of HTC, you can go ahead and start planning the build once you have the rights to the land.
Speaker 3:Well, as I've been describing, we've been doing a lot of work leading up to this point, but with this lease in hand, we'll be going to a next level in terms of engineering and construction planning and actual construction. So, it's going to be really exciting to have this behind us. And also, we won't be starting with a blank slate with the city manager. When the assembly members introduced the ordinance in early March, they then took it up in the Committee of the Whole, they've discussed a number of amendments. And so that will guide what the negotiation looks like.
Speaker 2:And a Tideland lease is kind of a template document. Some of the specifics that you're talking about, such as these assurances that there's not going to be problems with the Coast Guard some of those other things, those have already been discussed at some length. It should make it the process go a little more smoothly once the approval is in place.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. And also, you know, the public listening to this, you know, now wonders what, you know, can look in the assembly packet, for tonight and understand that, again, a number of these things have been discussed already.
Speaker 2:So C TRADE is a convention, a conference for the visitor industry, the maritime visitor industry?
Speaker 3:Absolutely, and it's happening this week. There's activities that have been underway, and tomorrow will be the formal opening of a conference. And this is, it's commonly known as Sea Trade, I think its formal name is Cruise Shipping Miami, But it's really the show in North America for cruise lines to be there and understand what's happening with emerging destinations. And so you see really the whole world. I had a chance when I was commissioner of commerce to attend C TRADE multiple times with their governor, with many industry members, and I've attended in other capacities as well.
Speaker 3:But you really have the world converging there, and you've got suppliers. You know, there's technology, you know, for food service and for environmental systems and other things. But the big emphasis of it is really itineraries and destinations, and especially new destinations. So, some of the things that we're talking about this morning on the air, our team, including CEO Russell Dick, are in Miami talking with the industry. It's to say, you know, what we've shared.
Speaker 3:We've done our vessel simulations. We have a coast guard letter. We're excited about our momentum and we plan to be open in 2027 and the Preston Singletary Exhibit. So, they're talking about it. They're talking about it and actually throwing a big reception tonight for our friends in the industry.
Speaker 2:That's excellent. And I'm sure, you know, is I'm sure Huna Totem is not unique. But being an Alaska native corporation, that is somewhat unique. Obviously, they don't exist in other states for the most part. I'm not Alaska native ones, of course.
Speaker 2:There are native owned entities, but they're more likely to be tribes or other kinds of entities because ANCSA is unique to Alaska. So but I I do think that the idea of cultural tourism and incorporating more authentic artistic and cultural aspects into visitors experiences. That's like that's that's on the rise across the industry.
Speaker 3:Yeah. Absolutely. And you know I was in a there was a cruise industry forum in Vancouver in late January, and I had a chance to speak along with Gold Belt about cultural tourism at that panel. And that was more of a Northwest forum, not as large. And anyway, it is absolutely on the rise.
Speaker 3:Icy Strait Point over in Huna celebrated its twentieth anniversary last year. So people have come to understand how Huna Totem really delivers this. And that it's that it's not static. It's not like here's an exhibit or here's a show. It's that we're going to incorporate who we are, how we live in everything.
Speaker 3:So when people are out on a whale watching tour, they're kayaking, or they're walking around the icy strait side or riding the gondolas, they're getting a sense of the story of the corporation, the people, and how that destination came to be.
Speaker 2:Right, and it really is a sincere display of indigenous culture and authenticity to those visiting. It's something that Hawaii has been doing really well since the so called Hawaiian Renaissance of the late 70s. And I lived there as a boy, where it was just thought this can't be something that's you know, inauthentic and that's packaged and presented. It really has to come from a real place. I can't believe it's been twenty years of Icy Straight Point.
Speaker 2:Is there gonna be a neighbor's day this year where folks can go over?
Speaker 3:Oh, absolutely. And an easy place to look is our newly updated website. It's Hunatotem.com. But, you know, often they're around three day holidays. So, the top of my head, I don't know if the dates are set, but those are super fun.
Speaker 3:And if people are not familiar with it, Huna Totem organizes catamarans that will leave Auk Bay, you know, so it's a convenient time to leave here. You have transportation over to Icy Strait that takes a couple hours, and then have the day at Icy Strait to enjoy the tours, to shop, to just really, you know, it feels very, very different in Huna. And part of that is just a beautiful setting and the way that Cannery and Icy Strait have developed, you know, together over the twenty years. So, anyway, so when people participate in Neighbor's Day, then they have transportation there and back and a chance to be participate in the tours.
Speaker 2:I did it and it was over ten years ago that I did it. And if I'm going to be around, I'd like to do it again. The reason I mentioned it is if you want to get an idea of what Auk Landing is going to be like, going over to CIC Strait Point is probably an excellent way. I mean, it's going to be different, but the same sort of spirit and vision are going to infuse this project that infuse that project.
Speaker 3:Thanks Ben, because I think it really does give a sense of the high quality development and the commitment to guest experiences.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. So we will find out that date and we'll mention that if we can, if it's been set and if not, I'll bring it up on a future show. It's almost time for another break to hear from our sponsors. It is 11:44. I'm Ben Brown.
Speaker 2:Today is Monday, April. You're listening to Problem Corner. And after this message from our sponsors, we'll be back to talk more with Susan Bell.
Speaker 1:For close to ninety years, KINY has been there. Thanks for listening.
Speaker 13:Discover the new Lyles and Jensen's home furnishings location at the Nugget Mall. Explore Southeast Alaska's largest selection of furniture, mattresses, and appliances. Enjoy 50 to 80% off select furniture deals and see store for details on how you could win $50,000. Lyles and Jensen's offers the same top quality furniture you love. Let Lyles team guide you to luxury and comfort, redefine your home's excellence with exceptional quality and savings.
Speaker 13:Visit Lyles and Jensen's home furnishings today at the Nugget Mall for the biggest selection and even bigger savings.
Speaker 14:Juneau Community Charter School offers hands on learning and individual attention through small class sizes and dedicated teachers, K through eighth grade. It's free. Our school supports creative, collaborative, place based learning, including devoted time each week to exploring the outdoors. Limited space remaining, so enroll now. Chart your child's course today at the Juneau Community Charter School.
Speaker 14:Find us online at jccs.junoschools.org.
Speaker 13:Richard Isaac says it best.
Speaker 7:Don't play a tool, call Ike's Fuel.
Speaker 13:For over a half a century, Ike's Fuel has been operating as the only independent and family owned heating oil supplier in Juneau. With a commitment to helping families, Ike's is known for quality products with highly reliable customer service and affordable prices. Call the ones who have been helping you for over a half a century and join the Ike's family. Call 364-3420.
Speaker 15:Are you seeking a free high quality early education for your baby or toddler in Juneau? Tlingit And Hyde At Early Head Start is here for you. Our program provides nurturing care, learning opportunities, and family support for children 18 to age three at no cost to eligible families. Enroll and watch your child grow, learn, and thrive. Call (907) 463-7127 or visit our website, clinkitinhaida.gov to apply now.
Speaker 15:Hey,
Speaker 5:Juno. It's time to get out on the water. It's easy with boat loans at Tongass Federal Credit Union starting at 6.49% APR. Whether you're dreaming of a brand new boat, eyeing a quality used option, planning a repower, or looking to refinance a high rate loan, we're here to help. Stop by our Juno branch in the Cape Plaza, or visit our website at TongassFCU.com to get started and make the most of all those amazing summer days ahead.
Speaker 5:APR's annual the in of
Speaker 1:We're going day. Of today, we're proud to continue the tradition of lively debates, community insights, and local connections here on KINY.
Speaker 2:And we are back thirteen minutes before the hour this Monday, April. A lovely spring day here in Alaska's capital city. I'm Ben Brown with Justin Miller here in the Gold Belt Tram Studio and our guest today is Susan Bell from Huna Totem Corporation And we did have one email with someone buying or selling something to
Speaker 4:Yeah, they're selling an iPhone 13 Pro Max from AT and T. It is that Sierra blue color. And they're saying it's in great condition, no scratches or cracks or anything like that. So if you're interested in that phone, it's about $450 or best offer. They had some hand surgery going on, so I guess I can't operate this phone anymore.
Speaker 4:So if you're interested in this iPhone 13 Pro Max, you can reach them at (907) 209-3458. And that's $450 or best offer on that phone.
Speaker 2:Alright. Very good. So I have a thirteen minutei, which I love and I don't really wanna upgrade it.
Speaker 4:I'm still rocking the iPhone X.
Speaker 2:Are you?
Speaker 4:I'm having an update.
Speaker 2:I remember back when I had an SE and I didn't wanna give it up and then none of the apps would update and I was finally forced to do so. Phones are funny things. But yeah, so if you're interested in that iPhone for $4.50 your best offer, Justin will repeat that number again before the end of the hour. We've got about eleven minutes now before we are gonna be done with Problem Corner today. If there's something you'd like to talk about unrelated to Auk Landing or something else you'd like to buy or sell or any other comments you'd like to make, I do encourage you to give us a ring at 586-1800.
Speaker 2:And we have a caller on the line right now. Hello. You are on problem corner.
Speaker 6:What's up? What's up?
Speaker 16:How's it going? Let turn up let me turn up my radio.
Speaker 4:Please don't don't do that.
Speaker 16:Hey. I don't see I don't hear them announcing anything about testimonies or what time the meeting is or is that today?
Speaker 2:Yes. That's a good question. And, Susan, you I know you're gonna know the answer. What time is the assembly meeting tonight?
Speaker 3:The assembly meeting starts at 07:00. There's options to be there in person or on Zoom. And, of course, it takes a you know, there's a couple of things that the assembly does as they get rolling and make, you know, make sure that we've got a quorum and and there's a consent agenda item. And they're also recognizing at least one community member tonight. So it I am guessing, although we're first under the public testimony section, it could be at least twenty, maybe thirty minutes before we're into that portion of the meeting.
Speaker 3:But it starts at seven, and you can can join by Zoom or in person.
Speaker 2:And if you don't want to testify but you just wanna watch, it'll be on the YouTube channel.
Speaker 3:Oh, thank you.
Speaker 2:Yeah. So if you go to Juno.gov, those links
Speaker 16:will be And
Speaker 2:you might wanna do it a little before the meeting starts because sometimes it takes a while to, you know, make sure you've got
Speaker 16:the right trying to make up my mind what I wanna do because I got NCAA basketball tournament going on. You got the church going on. You got the folk fest going on. Then you got the Honototo meeting going on.
Speaker 2:It's a lot.
Speaker 16:All at the same time.
Speaker 2:We live in a busy capital city, my friend. So, but with a little advanced planning, you can probably multitask and participate in at least two of those things at the same time.
Speaker 6:Like they say, eat or down.
Speaker 2:That's right. Okay. Thank you so much for the call. And, we'll make sure everyone knows the times for tonight's meeting, and you have a great rest of your day, sir.
Speaker 3:If I may, there's also an opportunity for residents to email assembly members with one easy email, boroughassemblyjuno dot gov.
Speaker 2:Yes. And that goes to all the assembly members and also to the city manager, deputy city manager, the law department, a few other folks. So that blanket's a large number of people in city government that you can get in touch with. And we have another call here on Problem Corner. Hello.
Speaker 2:You're on the air. Oh. Oh. They were cut off. Alright.
Speaker 2:Well, a little bit of time still to call in at 586-1800 if there's something you would like to talk about. But it's gonna be a busy night at the assembly, and here we go again trying to get this caller on the air.
Speaker 4:Hi. Welcome to Province Corner. You're live and on the air.
Speaker 16:Hey. Good morning.
Speaker 2:Good morning.
Speaker 6:Hey. So I have a the wheelchair. It's electric wheelchair. It's like a a regular kinda wheelchair with, but it's electric with two batteries, six volts, and they're brand new batteries. It's got a joystick on there.
Speaker 6:It actually moves around really good. It does the three sixty forward, right, left. Anyway, I'm asking 1,200 for that. The batteries are brand new, and they're up to a thirty hour charge per charge. You can get up to thirty hours.
Speaker 6:Then, I've also got three casting rods that are really nice condition. I want 60 apiece for those. And, they have line on them. They're ready to go. They're nice casting poles.
Speaker 6:And I also have two dog channels. One's a a medium sized cage, and we want $50 for that. And it's in great condition light. And so is the the plastic one. It's the Airline approved.
Speaker 6:It's, like, brand new also. And that one's they're both medium. So we want $50 a piece on those. And then one last thing, I have over 20 flashers. We're selling for $8 a piece, which is a good deal because they're they're running about close to $20 a flasher now.
Speaker 6:So my number is 957-3302.
Speaker 2:Alright. Thank you very much for calling in. And Justin, we'll do a recap of those items in a moment here, and we hope you're able to find some buyers for the items you wanna sell. Thanks for calling Problem Corner.
Speaker 6:Yep. Thank you.
Speaker 2:Alright. Well, Justin, why don't you do a quick recap of that?
Speaker 4:Alright. So that gentleman had electric wheelchair, has two brand new batteries, six volt batteries, and they're about thirty hours per charge. He's asking $1,200 for that electric wheelchair. And then he had the three casting rod just in time for our summer fishing season, $60 a piece. That's a steal for a nice casting rod.
Speaker 4:And then he had two dog kennels, both medium size. One was like a plastic more shell for like airline travel and the other one was more just for your day to day kennel. He's asking $50 per of those dog kennels. Then he had some flashers, $8 a piece. And so if you're interested in the wheelchair, the casting rods, or the two dog kennels, you can reach him at (907) 957-3302.
Speaker 2:Excellent. Thank you very much, Justin. And thanks to the caller for calling in to sell those items. So Susan did a little research and we do have a date for Neighbor's Day.
Speaker 3:We've got two dates. One is June 7. And again, it makes a super convenient day for you, friends and family to take catamaran over to Huna, experience Icy Straight Boy, and get back. And often, it's a it's about a eleven or twelve hour day. So June 7 and August 16, that will be wrapped in with the Challenge.
Speaker 3:And the Jeets Challenge is when people run from Icy Strait Point through Huna up the Huna Mountain Road, and that the race ends up at the top. It it has historical connection to someone who was alerting the community about people who were, they were not good people. Invading. So there's traditional connection, but it is also really beautiful and really fun. So if you're someone who likes to run up mountains on, you can participate in the Jeets Challenge, which will be August 16.
Speaker 3:Or if you're somebody who likes to watch, maybe have a beer, take the other tours, and just kind of watch a bunch of crazy people run up a mountain, you can do that too. You don't have to do the Jeets challenge. But those two dates, June 7 and August 16, and people can watch the Huna TOTEM website, which is hunatotem, huna totem Com website. Or if they track us on Facebook, we keep up with announcements and information there and watch for ways to sign up.
Speaker 2:That's great news. I just looked at my calendar. Unfortunately, I'm gonna be leaving Juneau to go to Valdives for the theater conference on the seventh. So I'm not gonna be able to make it for Neighbor's Day. But I have no plans to run-in the Jeets Challenge, I assure you.
Speaker 2:But I might take a catamaran over and watch others do so in August. So
Speaker 3:It's an excellent viewpoint where you can watch people. Once the race is done, everybody has the opportunity to ride the gondola or the zip line down. So there's some great views. You can have a little cold beverage in your hand and watch people who are triumphantly coming back down the mountain.
Speaker 2:And again, going over and visiting the Icy Strait Point facility and complex is a great way to see how Hunar Totem conducts itself in the construction and operation of these visitor facilities, which I think will probably make anyone who is undecided more supportive of Aucklandia because it's such a beautiful facility over there in Huna.
Speaker 3:It's a beautiful destination. Huna Totem has won a number of industry awards for the quality of guest experience, and it's a really significant economic driver. Anybody in Huna that wants to be employed at Huna Totem has a job. It is a significant property taxpayer, employer, you know, just a really good neighbor.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. And twenty years it's been there, so amazing and congratulations for that. Well, so again, tonight there's an assembly meeting and Huna Totem's Auk Landing project is first on the agenda for public testimony. That'll be sometime between seven and 07:20 something after the initial preliminary parts of the assembly meeting have happened. And then tonight, hopefully, there will be positive action by the assembly to move this project forward.
Speaker 2:So although many people in town have already voiced their support for the project, tonight's another opportunity to do so. Again, the Juno Chamber strongly supports the project. I think there's lots of benefits to it, but it is a public process. So people of all points of view, of course, are gonna be welcome to come and speak their minds tonight. And I know, Susan, that you will be there, and I imagine your colleagues who are at the convention in Florida will be waiting up late Eastern Time to figure out how it goes.
Speaker 3:Well, It'll be 11:00. They will have concluded the reception that we're hosting for our friends and colleagues at Sea Trade. At about 11:00, they're probably gonna pour themselves a nice strong cup of coffee or a Coke so they can stay awake and watch how the meeting unfolds.
Speaker 2:And so you get to do it in Alaska time here in Juneau. So if you wanna be there in person, go down to City Hall. If you wanna try to participate via Zoom, go to Juneau.gov now and figure out how to do so. If you just wanna watch, it'll be on CBJ's YouTube site. We have about two minutes before the top of the hour here.
Speaker 2:I'm Ben Brown. It's been my pleasure to have Susan Bell from Huna Totem Corporation here on Problem Corner today. I will not be here next week. And so the special order of business tonight, speaking of wonderful Alaska Native leaders, is it's a proclamation honoring Doctor. Hunay, Lance Twitchell.
Speaker 2:He won an Emmy Award from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences the week before last. And actually, my director of the Thanksgiving play, Frank Henry Koshkatas has been nominated several times, but he hasn't won. But Junae is a great guy. He actually won the governor's awards for Alaska Native Arts last year. I was there when that was presented to him up in Anchorage at the Anchorage Museum.
Speaker 2:So June is an amazing cultural leader and someone we can all be proud of to call our friend and neighbor here in Alaska's capital city. So just about out of time today. Again, I won't be here next week. I'm gonna be up in Anchorage at the Foraker Group's nonprofit leadership summit talking about some of the challenges facing the nonprofit world. But I'll be back the week after that, and I look forward to being here again in the Gold Belt Tram Studio with my friend Justin Miller.
Speaker 4:Awesome.
Speaker 2:Thanks for listening to Problem Corner, everyone have a great Monday. Thanks again, Susan.
Speaker 4:Alright. That's been problem wait. Before I end problem corner, I just wanted to throw out our calls today. So iPhone 13 Pro Max, $450. If you're interested in that, you could call at (907) 209-3458.
Speaker 4:And then that gentleman with the electric wheelchair, $1,200 for that. The three casting rods, $60 a piece. And then the two dog kennels medium size, $50 a piece. And then you had the flashers, $8 a piece. If you're interested in any of those items of that gentleman, you could call (907) 957-3302.
Speaker 4:And that's from problem corner here on KINY.
Speaker 1:You've been listening to problem corner, Alaska's longest running radio tradition presented each weekday by Alaska Laundry and Dry Cleaning. Join us every weekday at 11AM, and subscribe to the podcast at kinyradio.com.