Haines Friends of Recycling had its annual meeting on October 7th. Among the main topics was discussion as to where a new recycling facility could be placed. The group said it’s outgrown its current site on Small Tracts, and is looking to acquire an onsite plastic recycling machine. Board Member Kate Saunders said the group is looking into acquiring the property of the public safety building when fire and police departments move up the hill. That idea was presented by Debra Schnabel, who pointed out the site is already cleared of trees and would be ultra convenient for Haines residents, but the idea still needs to go through city planners. Saunders said the group is trying to act quickly to secure the site before the next grant cycle. “Pressure’s on, we need to find something soon,” she said. Meanwhile, the group also recently hosted Patrick Simpson, of Alaska Plastics Recovery, who is planning to bring his plastic recycling machine to Haines in the near future to make lumber from some of the two years-worth of stored plastic waste.
Rachel Pattison, who started sewing garments in 2016, had a one day pop-up sale last weekend at the Haines Brewery featuring her artistic, hand-sewn garments for children and adults. The children’s garments are “grow with me” garments, with sleeves that easily fold up or down to fit the young wearers longer than commercially-sized children’s clothing items. The pop-up had a good turn out, and Pattison says she will be a vendor at the upcoming bazaars.
After over a year of attempting to fill the position, the Haines Library will be excitedly welcoming Matt Jilson as the new Assistant Library Director starting in November. The assistant director has a myriad of responsibilities, including writing and overseeing grants, scheduling, ordering and coordinating adult programming. Additionally Jilson will fill in as acting director when the director is away. “His experience in management and tourism make him an excellent fit for the library,” said librarian Holly Davis in an email. “He believes the library is a crucial gathering spot for the community to share ideas and learn new skills.” In his free time you can find Jilson hiking, skiing, foraging, and fishing.
The Haines Coho Salmon derby is in its last days. The annual competition, run by Haines Sportsman’s Association, ends on Oct. 29. This year’s event has seen some big fish this year. The current leader is a 14.10-pounder caught by Steve Andersen. That’s nearly two pounds more than last year’s winner. Notably, 7-year-old Zane Reynolds continues to lead the kids age 5-10 division with a 8.45-lbs salmon, which is nearly double the size of last years’ 4.5-pound winner. Jude Norton took the lead in the age 11-15 division, with an 8.35 pounder. Chris Hill is leading the fly fishing division with a 10.15-pounder. The Sportsman’s Association has been giving away gift cards, fishing tackle and other prizes throughout the competition, which began in mid-September. Tickets are $25 and can be bought at Alaska Sports Shop and Outfitters Sporting Goods. Money raised goes to scholarships and local nonprofits.