Brian Venua

Cassandra Canaveral before the explosion sent her to the hospital.

Cassandra Canaveral before a Nov. 10, 2024 explosion on Kodiak’s White Sands Beach sent her to the hospital. (Courtesy Gustavo Canaveral)

While none of the catcher-processor's boats fish near Kodiak, they still set aside $12,500 for the region. Ten nonprofits received grants in the most recent cycle, the next one will be in the spring of 2025.

Kodiak’s population is shrinking, following a trend among rural places across the country. It’s one of the biggest factors as the archipelago’s school district considers closing one of its elementary schools.

This week we hear an update on the lawsuit between KANA and the borough, symptoms of a shrinking population, how climate change is affecting Kodiak, staffing issues on Base Kodiak, and a grow-your-own program for firefighters.

Zach (left) and Beth (right) Koehler have owned Grand Slam Toys and Games for about seven years, Dec. 5, 2024.

The district’s main office is located near Kodiak High School’s campus, August 15, 2023.

One of several ash piles near the entrance to White Sands Beach near Kodiak. The beach is a popular spot for bonfires, fishing, bear watching, walks, or letting dogs run around off-leash.

Fireworks are common during the parade, with several boats lighting them for audiences, like for people on the Near Island Bridge.

“We’re going to do what we can, but we need to stabilize our budget,” said Cyndy Mika, the district's superintendent. Main and North Star Elementary schools are both on the chopping block — the Board of Education will make a decision on Jan. 20.