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Broader Horizons
The article “A School of Their Own,” in the February issue (Page 36) was very enjoyable. The Chickaloon people are teaching their children Ahtna, a dialect of Athabascan. That is the best—and the most effective—forward step these kids will ever take. Not only will they preserve their tribal culture, but will be able to learn about and understand other cultures worldwide. Learning a second language will also greatly broaden their learning abilities in all other subjects. I hope many other tribes follow this excellent example.
—Ken Smith
Lake City, Fla.
Letter of the Month: Fishing Memories
I am 13 and I love to hunt and fish. The article in the December/January issue about fishing on the Koktuli River (“A Gem in the Shadow of a Pebble,” Page 74) reminded me of when I went fishing in Thorne Bay for salmon and halibut. It was one of the best experiences I have ever had. We brought back 400 pounds of fish! We saw whales and eagles and one huge humpback surfaced 50 feet from our boat. It was a trip I will never forget and I hope I get an opportunity to go back. The Koktuli story made me want to go freshwater fishing in Alaska for char, reds and rainbows like they did.
—T.J. Smith
Louisburg, Kan.
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T.J., we liked your letter and are sending you an Alaska magazine mug!—Editor |
Generous Villagers
As a longtime visitor from the Lower 48, I have encountered the generosity of many people in remote villages (“On the Edge,” February, Page 10). Since 1993, I have been a volunteer vet for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. I am fortunate to have visited all of the north- and south-route checkpoints and have experienced many sharing times. My fondest memories involve the exemplary residents of your spectacular state.
—E. Turner Lewis
Brattleboro, Vt.
Treasure From Trash
Back in 2004, my wife and I spent two weeks in Fairbanks. The trip ended far too fast. We went camping, to the farmer’s market and Pioneer Park, and panned for gold (my wife found $40 worth! I found $4 worth). There is a lot to do in Fairbanks and the dump does not have to be on the list (“One Man’s Trash…” October 2010, Page 22) but, being a recycler, I did visit one transfer station and it was a very busy place.
—Ralph Lee Klindt
Avoca, Iowa
