Capital Chat

On this episode of Capital Chat, Cliff Dumas speaks with members of Juneau Ghost Light Theatre about its upcoming production of Witches in Salem at Thunder Mountain. Director Ty and cast members Nomi and Kelsey explain how the show turns the Salem witch trials into a darkly comic, historically grounded theatrical romp, with 11 actors taking on more than 30 roles. They also discuss Juneau’s strong performing arts community, the creative challenge of finding humor in serious history, and the work involved in bringing the production to the stage. Plus, hear about the show’s pay-as-you-can Sunday performances, which will also support local nonprofit organizations.

On this episode of Capital Chat, Cliff Dumas speaks with Capital City Fire/Rescue Chief Hatley about his first months leading the department and the challenges of recruiting and retaining firefighters in Juneau. Hatley discusses the department’s apprentice program, efforts to strengthen the volunteer ranks and his goal of making CCFR a destination department for firefighters drawn to Alaska’s unique demands. The conversation also covers the wide range of emergencies CCFR handles, from fires and medical calls to water rescue and hazardous materials, along with the addition of new aircraft rescue and firefighting equipment at Juneau International Airport.

On this episode of Capital Chat, Cliff Dumas speaks with Rebecca “Becca” Parks, Executive Director of the Juneau Chamber of Commerce, about the Chamber’s annual board transition, new board members and the role the organization plays in supporting Juneau’s business community. Parks also previews upcoming candidate forums, holiday marketing and health care luncheons, and explains how the Chamber’s new member survey will help shape its priorities for the coming year. The conversation also covers some of the biggest concerns local businesses are facing, including visitor industry uncertainty, downtown safety, workforce quality of life, inflation and the rising cost of doing business.

On Capital Chat, Sharon Gaitman speaks with Annie Kail’s owner Colleen Goldrich about the gallery’s upcoming First Friday featuring Juneau artist Dave Wetzel and his paintings of Southeast Alaska landscapes. They discuss the exhibit’s original paintings, prints and cards, along with Annie Kaill’s custom framing services and its wide range of gifts, baby items, pottery, jewelry, home décor and more. The First Friday event takes place at 124 Seward Street from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

On Capital Chat, Sharon speaks with Juno Symphony Executive Director Charlotte Truitt and former Music Director Troy Quinn about this weekend’s special pops concert. The program features original music from iconic television shows, films, sports broadcasts and news programs, including Star Trek, The Simpsons, Bonanza, I Love Lucy, Rocky and Dynasty. They also discuss season ticket specials, Sunday’s pay-as-you-can option, and the symphony’s upcoming holiday concert.

On Capital Chat, Sharon speaks with UAS Chancellor Aparna Palmer about several developments at the university, including a new floating dock and mariculture training facility at the Sitka campus. They also discuss the redesigned Master of Public Administration program and a developing partnership with the Sámi University of Applied Sciences in Norway focused on Indigenous language revitalization, with hopes for future student and faculty exchanges. Palmer also highlights upcoming short courses in areas ranging from Alaska Native Studies and welding to backcountry navigation.

 On Capital Chat, Sharon speaks with St. Vincent de Paul board members Chris Gianotti and Maureen Hall about the organization’s upcoming “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” fundraiser and 5K run. They discuss St. Vincent de Paul’s housing programs, warming shelter, and volunteer-run aid program, which helps Juneau residents with needs ranging from utility bills to housing-related support. The event includes a community walk, 5K, lunch, and opportunities to tour the organization’s facilities. 

On Capital Chat, Sharon speaks with Jess Gutzweiler of Southeast Radiation Oncology about “Beer for My Boys,” a free prostate cancer screening event taking place October 23 at Devil’s Club Brewing Company. They discuss the importance of establishing a PSA baseline, removing barriers to cancer screening, and encouraging men over 40 to get tested. The event is being supported by Bartlett, the Aurora Integrated Oncology Foundation, Cancer Connection, Alaska Men’s Run, and other community partners.

 On Capital Chat, Angel Montgomery talks with fellow Rotarian Denny DeWitt about the Rotary Club of Juneau’s Capital Brew Fest at Centennial Hall. They discuss Rotary’s community service work, the festival’s lineup of breweries and non-alcoholic options, the Friday night Beer Feast, live music, VIP opportunities to meet brewers, and how proceeds support Rotary’s charitable efforts in Juneau and beyond. 

On this episode of Capital Chat, Cliff Dumas speaks with UAS biology faculty member Nicole and students Eliza and Beatrice about research examining how warmer water and lower salinity may affect Pacific blue mussels in Southeast Alaska. The team explains how they tested mussel attachment strength, oxygen consumption and other indicators of health, and why the combination of higher temperatures and fresher water produced the most concerning results so far. The conversation also explores what those changes could mean for marine ecosystems, food sources and the future of coastal species as environmental conditions continue to shift.