Episode's summary
For our Halloween special we dive into the world of spooky sounds. We talk about why certain sounds scare us and exactly what is happening with our ears and body when we hear those noises. Later on the program we showcase some eerie instruments for you, including a waterphone.
For our Halloween special we dive into the world of spooky sounds. We talk about why certain sounds scare us and exactly what is happening with our ears and body when we hear those noises. Later on the program we showcase some eerie instruments for you, including a waterphone.
Episodes
Spooky sounds and eerie instruments | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedFor our Halloween special we dive into the world of spooky sounds. We talk about why certain sounds scare us and exactly what is happening with our ears and body when we hear those noises. Later on the program we showcase some eerie instruments for you, including a waterphone.
What to know about domestic violence in the state | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOctober is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to recognize the individuals and families affected by domestic violence, honor survivors and talk honestly about what it will take to prevent abuse in our communities. Domestic violence is a serious issue in Alaska, affecting people across our state, regardless of age, background, income or community. On this "Hometown, Alaska" we talk about what domestic violence looks like, why Alaska continues to face significant challenges and what support is available for people experiencing abuse. Joining us is Randi Breager, executive director of AWAIC—Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis—an Anchorage organization providing critical services and support to people experiencing domestic violence. If you or someone you know needs help, AWAIC's 24 hour crisis and support line is 907-272-0100
Go behind the scenes of Anchorage's Haunted and Enchanted Trails | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOctober is here, which means it’s time for a little spooky fun here in town! The Municipality of Anchorage Parks and Recreation Department is once again transforming some of our trails into Haunted and Enchanted Trails, giving families a chance to experience the outdoors in a whole new—and sometimes delightfully creepy—way. On this episode, we talk with the folks behind these popular October events to find out what goes into creating them and how Anchorage families can get in on the fun. Haunted Trails: Friday, October 16, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enchanted Trail: Saturday, October 17, 3 - 5 p.m.
Book clubs and spooky reading recommendations | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedNow that fall is here, we're preparing to grab our most comfortable clothes, curl up on the couch and read some books. There’s something special about fall time that pairs so well with reading, but there is one local book club that is taking it a step further, pairing drinks with reading. The all-women club, Anchorage Book & Sip, is based in Anchorage, and is just one of many chapters around the country. We'll also get spooky reading recommendations from the founder of Anchorage's Morbidly Curious Book Club.
Foraging in Anchorage | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedAlaska is full of incredible wild foods, but knowing what's edible—and what's not—takes knowledge, patience and a sharp eye. On this episode, we hit the trail with local foraging expert, Matt Worden, owner of Go Hike Alaska, to learn what nature has to offer, how to forage safely and why gathering wild foods is about so much more than just filling your basket. As a bonus for the podcast, Kim shares some recipes to try with foraged foods.
Get to know a four-legged friend with Tails on Trails | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedIn the past year or so you may have heard the name Tails on Trails. It’s a program offered by Anchorage Animal Care and Control that lets you come and check out a dog, much like you would a library book. You are then allowed to take that dog home with you for up to 48 hours. The hope is that not only will these dogs be given enrichment and companionship while they wait for adoption, but that adoptions will be more likely to happen with those people that are taking the dogs for a test run.
This local entrepreneur thinks your pets should eat as well as you do | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedFor many people pets are family, so it's no surprise we love celebrating them with healthy treats and a few special indulgences. On this episode we visit Daisy Nicolas of Drool Central, Anchorage's own "mum-and-pup barkery." We learn how one local entrepreneur turned her passion for dogs into a thriving business while giving back to the community through a unique partnership with the Anchorage School District's Adult Community Transition Program. We talk about dog treats, entrepreneurship, pet nutrition and why this one-of-a-kind bakery has become a favorite destination for Alaska's four-legged friends and the people who love them.
Getting to know the Hmong community in Anchorage | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode we sit down with a member of Anchorage’s Hmong community to learn about their rich history, traditions and journey to Alaska. From Hmong New Year celebrations to favorite foods and the lively weekend market at Pena Park, we explore what makes this culture so vibrant and unique. This is a conversation that celebrates community, heritage and connection right here in Anchorage.
Back to school in Anchorage | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedAs of Monday, teachers are in the classrooms and on Wednesday, school will begin for most K-12 students in the Anchorage School District. As usual, this year will bring many challenges. Last April voters rejected not one, but two ballots aimed at funding ASD. So what does that mean for the 2026 school year’s staff and program offerings? And what can parents, teachers and students look forward to as they head back to the classrooms?
Entering the world of escape rooms | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode, we use all of our wits, composure and sleuthing skills for the world of escape rooms. Maybe you’ve done an escape room yourself, or maybe you’ve just heard of them. And if you’ve never heard of them, then you’re in for a treat because not only do we hear from the founder of Escape! Alaska, we take you, the listener, into an audio escape room where you can join in the fun from the comfort of your car or your home.
Salmonfest preview and an interview with headliners Guster | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode we look ahead to a staple of live music and a symbol of summertime in Alaska with Salmonfest. It's an annual concert series that takes place every summer in Ninilchik. The event draws in loads of national and local bands, and thousands of Alaskans from all of over the state to converge on the small Kenai Peninsula community. This year will mark the 15th year of the festival taking place this weekend.
Summer events and staying up to date with what's happening in town | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode, we're soaking in all that summer has to offer with a special program dedicated to the many events happening in the Anchorage area over the next few months. Whether it’s a new event our city has never seen, or a recurring weekly event that you should be sure to catch at least one time before summer is over, we’ve got you covered. We'll also discuss Alaska Public Media's weekly events roundup "The Anchorage Weekender."
Bristol Bay Fishery and the PBS documentary series “Shared Planet” | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedThis week on Hometown Alaska, we’re joined by marine biologist Tim Sands to share what it’s like working at the heart of one of the world’s most remarkable fisheries—and appearing in the new PBS series “Shared Planet.” From the waters of Bristol Bay, we’ll uncover why this fishery continues to thrive when so many others are under pressure. Plus, a closer look at how Alaska’s approach to sustainability is shaping the global conversation around the future of fishing.
Summer camps in Anchorage | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedIt's almost time for summer, and we know what some of you might be thinking, “there’s still snow on the ground, why are we already talking about summer?” Well, now is the time for parents and providers to be registering their kids for summer camps. It’s not a secret that Alaska has a child-care shortage and many of our summer camps fill up fast. Thankfully, there are a ton of options out there; everything from single day camps, to one-week programs and even a few places that offer child-care and enrichment for the entire summer. On today’s show we be talk about every kind of camp you can find, whether it is a niche interest or something more general.
Co-op gardens, tiny homes, composting and more | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedToday’s show was inspired by Earth Day and how humans can minimize their impact on the planet. We're joined by the Network Connector for Anchor Gardens, a local group that has their hands in all sorts of eco-friendly projects like co-op gardens, tiny homes, and “stockpile” stations.
Sauna culture in Alaska | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedFor generations, people around the world have turned to heat and steam for healing, connection, and ritual—most famously in places like Finland, where sauna is a way of life. But long before modern wellness trends, Indigenous communities here in Alaska practiced their own forms of “steaming,” using traditional sweat lodges as part of physical, spiritual, and communal well-being. Today, we’re seeing a powerful revival of sauna culture, blending ancient traditions with contemporary health and lifestyle trends. From wood-fired saunas to cold plunges in icy waters, the hot–cold ritual is gaining new attention across the state and beyond. In this conversation, we explore the deep history, cultural roots and modern resurgence of sauna—and what it means to Alaskans today.
The Anchorage Curling Club | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode, we sweep you into the surprisingly cool world of curling—where things heat up on the ice. Curling might look like a simple game of sliding stones across ice, but it’s a sport rich in history, strategy, and surprising science. Originating centuries ago in Scotland, curling has grown into a global sport and a fan favorite at the Winter Olympics. Here in Anchorage, a dedicated community of curlers and volunteers keeps that tradition alive, welcoming newcomers and seasoned players alike. We explore how the game works, the fascinating physics behind that signature “curl” and the local stories that make curling in Alaska so unique.
Celebrating Alaska women with the Anchorage ATHENA Society | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode we celebrate Women’s History Month by showcasing some Alaska women who were honored at the 2026 ATHENA Awards. The awards are given to only a select few women that have shown professional excellence, commitment to community and leadership potential. We hear from the founder of the Anchorage chapter of the ATHENA Society, Eleanor Andrews and this year's leadership award winner, Dr. Anne Zink. We also get to know two more ATHENA Society inductees from this year.
Falconry in the Last Frontier | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedFalconry is where tradition and modern skill "take flight," and falconers prove that mastering it is never just "winging it." Falconry is the ancient art of hunting in partnership with a trained bird of prey, and it has been practiced by humans for thousands of years. In Alaska, falconry takes on a unique character, shaped by the state’s vast landscapes, wildlife and strong hunting traditions. From tundra to forest, Alaska provides an ideal environment for birds like falcons and hawks to thrive and hunt. Today, falconry in Alaska is both a living tradition and a tool for conservation, education, and deep connection to the natural world.
Hidden histories and strange stories from AK | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode, we uncover some of the wildest and oddest stories Alaska has to offer. The idea for this show was inspired by an article titled "When Walt Disney Came to Fairbanks." It uncovers the not-so-well-known trip that Walt Disney took well before Alaska was a state, and before Disneyland was built. The story is full of intrigue, including a secret mural that was painted by Walt himself, an unsolved murder, and an early Disney movie filmed in Alaska. Later on the program we will have more Alaskan oddities from local historian David Reamer.
Celebrating Black History Month | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn today’s show we celebrate Black History Month. Although we only have about a week of February left, there are still lots of ways to do that. Hear from two members of the Alaska Black Caucus to find out what their role is in our state, what their focus is in a time where racial tensions have risen to new heights and to learn about the upcoming Bettye Davis African American Summit.
Celebrating National Random Acts of Kindness Day | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedToday is National Random Acts of Kindness Day, so it seemed fitting to be joined by Paloma Pavel. She is the co-author of the book “Random Kindness and Senseless Acts of Beauty.” At first glance, the book looks like children’s literature, but is a parable, of sorts, showing how through small acts, we can break away from behaviors that lead to violence and war by making new choices and working together. Pavel’s co-author Anne Herbert is credited with coining the phrase “random kindness and senseless acts of beauty” back in 1982 and the words and sentiment spread from there.Paloma Pavel moved to Anchorage about two years ago and works on Providence Hospital’s Spiritual Care and Clinical Pastoral Education Team.Later in the show we hear about Alaska Public Media's project honoring people giving back the the community called "Every Little Bit."
Games and drinks for a Valentine's Day in | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedThis weekend is Valentine’s Day, and while many couples will be spending a night out at a restaurant or hitting the theaters for the newest romcom, we at Hometown, Alaska thought it would be fun to plan the perfect date night in. Going out is great and all but it can be stressful and expensive, so why not put on some clothes that are actually comfortable and play a card game, or make a new and exciting cocktail?If that sounds like a date night that is more your speed, then you’re going to love our guests. We hear from a local mixologist, who will be sharing the perfect Valentine’s Day drink, and from a local games expert, who shares the best games to play with that special someone.
Traditional knowledge and modern technology in the Denełchin Fab Lab | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedThis week, we step inside Cook Inlet Tribal Council’s Denéłchin Fab Lab, where Alaska Native youth are exploring cutting-edge technology and hands-on creativity. We talk with CITC staff about their mission, the programs shaping future leaders, and the incredible projects happening in the lab.CITC is a nonprofit organization that serves Alaska Native and Native American people in the Anchorage and Cook Inlet region through programs focused on education, employment, recovery and family support. Its mission centers on empowering individuals and strengthening community wellness, culture and self-determination.The Denéłchin Fab Lab is part of CITC’s education and youth development efforts, offering a hands-on, high-tech space where students explore STEM, digital fabrication, and creative problem-solving. Together, they support the next generation by blending innovation, culture, and learning in a way that uplifts the whole community.
Chess in the Last Frontier | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedHave you ever wanted to learn the game of chess or sharpen your skills? Last year, the Alaska Chess Federation was accepted on a national level, giving Alaska its first state chapter in more than half of a decade. It brings local chess players together, as well as represents Alaska on the national level. On this episode, host Dave Waldron speaks with a Chess Federation member from Palmer about how to get involved in the game locally, as well as the social and cognitive benefits of playing chess. HOST: Dave WaldronGUEST: Anthony Irsik, board member of the Alaska Chess Federation, Palmer Chess Club
Saving and studying the Cook Inlet Beluga whales | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode, we chat with a marine mammal specialist about our beloved Cook Inlet Belugas. We explore the science behind these endangered whales, the challenges they face and the recovery efforts happening right now—including exciting partnerships and community involvement.HOST: Kim SherryGUEST: Jill Seymour, Cook Inlet Beluga Recovery Coordinator, marine mammal specialistLINKS:NOAA Beluga WhalesNOAA Beluga conservation and managementHow to help
Looking back on our favorite moments from 2025 | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode we look back on some of the show’s best moments of 2025. From winter beekeeping to making music with solar radiation, we’ve covered some really interesting Alaskans and how they make this state such a unique and fantastic place to live.HOSTS:Dave WaldronKim Sherry
Homesteading, Highland cows and hugs | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedAlaska has a rich homesteading history that stretches back to the early 1900s, when settlers came north in search of freedom, self-reliance and a new start. After World War II, the Homestead Act opened up millions of acres here, offering land to anyone willing to build a life in some of the harshest, most beautiful conditions on Earth. Though the official homestead era ended in the 1980s, the spirit of that lifestyle still lives on today in people who choose to trade convenience for connection and comfort for independence.Our guest today is one of those modern homesteaders. Living off-grid near Talkeetna, he’s built his own home, raises his own food and in one of the most unique Alaskan experiences you’ll find, he invites visitors to come and share a hug with his herd of gentle Highland cows.We hear about what it takes to live this kind of life, how he made it happen and why something as simple as hugging a cow can make such a deep impact.HOST: Kim SherryGUESTS: Carmelo Panucci, Talkeetna homesteader,…
Celebrating 35 years of 'The Nutcracker' | Hometown, Alaska
Listened"The Nutcracker" ballet, which takes place at the Performing Arts Center, has become a tradition of many Anchorage residents as a way to celebrate the beginning of Christmas season. To celebrate its 35th year, we hear from two members of the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra, including a musician who plays the celeste (don’t worry if you don’t know what that is, you'll find out.), and from the Anchorage Concert Association. They are the group responsible for coordinating "The Nutcracker" performance that many of us get to enjoy this time of year.SHOW INFO:Atwood Concert Hall:Friday, November 28, 2025 @ 2:00pmFriday, November 28, 2025 @ 7:30pmSaturday, November 29, 2025 @ 2:00pmSaturday, November 29, 2025 @ 7:30pmSunday, November 30, 2025 @ 1:00pmSunday, November 30, 2025 @ 5:30pmHOST: Dave WaldronGUESTS:Mitchell Hanson, Communications Director, Anchorage Concert AssociationKathryn Easley, Event Manager, Anchorage Concert AssociationSusan Wingrove-Reed, Principal Pianist, Anchorage Symphony OrchestraNick Cooper,…
The life of pie | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedIt's the time of year where many of us are plotting every last morsel that we will either be cooking or simply just enjoying with our friends and family. While so much of the spotlight is given to the turkey and the side dishes, there are some of us that are biding our time, and strategically saving room in our stomachs, for dessert. On this week's show we celebrate that final dish that so many people claim they do not have any more room for—and what is a more iconic Thanksgiving dessert than pie? We're joined by Julia O'Malley, a James Beard Award winning writer who has written for the Anchorage Daily News and also authored the book "The Whale and the Cupcake: Stories of Subsistence, Longing, and Community in Alaska."HOST: Dave WaldronGUEST: Julia O'Malley, food writer, journalistLINKS:Julia O'Malley websiteFacebookInstagram"For this year’s holiday feast, try a vintage tart cherry pie" | Anchorage Daily News
Capturing the music of nature | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedWe’ve all heard sounds in nature that capture our ears, whether it’s a bird call, a gentle stream or a thunderstorm. But what about other sounds? What noise does a glacier make? Or the tundra? And are they musical like those bird calls, chaotic, or just plain strange? Matthew Burtner is a composer, sound artist and eco-acoustician. He discusses his work, a recent Canadian exhibition and his newest album "Profiled from Atmospheres."HOST: Dave WaldronGUEST: Matthew Burtner, musician, composer, eco-acousticianLINKS: Matthew Burtner websiteInstagramFacebookMusic
Alaska Public Media's Dracula: The Complete Saga
ListenedHometown, Alaska presents: Alaska Public Media’s "Dracula," a modernized take on the original work by Bram Stoker, adapted for the radio in four parts by Crystal Hyde.The following audio drama contains content that may be frightening or disturbing. Listener discretion is advised.Wesley Early as the narratorMary Lou Asicksik as Mina MurrayAmmon Swenson as Jonathan HarkerMadilyn Rose as Dr. Jacqueline SewardKim Sherry as Artie HolmwoodAmanda Agnelly as Quinn MorrisJeremy Hsieh as Abraham Van HelsingLori Townsend as Countess DraculaCrystal Hyde as Maria, the nurse and Mina’s voicemailMatt Faubion as the carriage driver.Adam Nicely as Luke WestenraToben Shelby as the newscasterSusan Metcalf as the eyewitnessWritten by Crystal Hyde with assistance from Kalli RandallEdited by Crystal Hyde with assistance from Dave Waldron and Adam Nicely,Music by Matt FaubionProduced by Crystal Hyde and Ammon Swenson.
Alaska Public Media's Dracula: Episode 4
ListenedHalloween extravaganza | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this show we be play some of our favorite Halloween segments we’ve worked on over the years at Alaska Public Media. We have spooky radio plays, Halloween movie favorites and an interview and book reading from a local horror author. Lastly, we hear the finale of Alaska Public Media’s Dracula, a rendition of the classic tale that has been airing all month on Hometown Alaska.HOST: Dave WaldronGUEST: Ammon Swenson, Producer of Hometown, Alaska
Alaska Public Media's Dracula: Episode 3
ListenedHometown, Alaska presents: Alaska Public Media’s "Dracula," a modernized take on the original work by Bram Stoker, adapted for the radio in four parts by Crystal Hyde.The following audio drama contains content that may be frightening or disturbing. Listener discretion is advised.Wesley Early as the narratorMary Lou Asicksik as Mina MurrayAmmon Swenson as Jonathan HarkerMadilyn Rose as Dr. Jacqueline SewardAdam Nicely as Luke WestenraKim Sherry as Artie HolmwoodAmanda Agnelly as Quinn MorrisJeremy Hsieh as Abraham Van HelsingLori Townsend as Countess DraculaWritten by Crystal Hyde with assistance from Kalli RandallEdited by Crystal Hyde with assistance from Dave Waldron and Adam Nicely,Music by Matt FaubionProduced by Crystal Hyde and Ammon Swenson.Join us next week for Episode 4.
Halloween and fall activities for kids, adults and the whole family | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedThis is a special edition of Hometown, Alaska where we explore all the exciting Halloween and fall festival happenings this spooky season! From pumpkin patches to haunted houses, fall flavors to "trick or trunks" — we’re covering it all. We're joined by Daniella May, our go-to source for seasonal fun, event coverage and all things festive on social media.And stick around for Episode 3 of Alaska Public Media’s production of Dracula later in the show.HOST: Kim SherryGUEST: Daniella May, @eatlocal_drinklocalEVENTS:Family events:Zoo Boo, which will be Saturday, October 25th. This is a ticketed event. There are candy stations all around the zoo, and they put up decorations. It’s a really fun day to visit the animals.Fall Festival at the Reindeer farm in Palmer. This is another ticketed event happening on the 25th. There are activities for the kids including a hayrack ride, and hay bale obstacle courses, a spooky walk, pony rides and live music.Halloween Nature Walk at Eagle River Nature Center, which always…
Alaska Public Media's Dracula: Episode 2
ListenedHometown, Alaska presents: Alaska Public Media’s "Dracula," a modernized take on the original work by Bram Stoker, adapted for the radio in four parts by Crystal Hyde.The following audio drama contains content that may be frightening or disturbing. Listener discretion is advised.FEATURING: Wesley Early as the narratorMadilyn Rose as Dr. Jacqueline SewardMary Lou Asicksik as Mina MurrayAdam Nicely as Luke WestenraKim Sherry as Artie HolmwoodAmanda Agnelly as Quinn MorrisJeremy Hsieh as Abraham Van HelsingToben Shelby as the newscasterSusan Metcalf as the eyewitnessCrystal Hyde as the nurse and Mina’s voicemail.Join us next week for Episode 3.
Raising bees and harvesting honey in Alaska | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode, we’re buzzing into the world of honey bees with a local beekeeper, Dusty Finley. We learn why bees are vital to our environment, the challenges of keeping them in Alaska’s unique climate and how their honey takes on the flavor of our northern flowers. It's a sweet conversation about bees, pollination and the taste of Alaska.Later in the show we hear Episode 2 of Alaska Public Media's "Dracula."HOST: Kim SherryGUEST: Dusty Finley, beekeeperLINKS:Pollinators in Alaska Alaska Bee Atlas
Alaska Public Media's Dracula: Episode 1
ListenedHometown, Alaska presents: Alaska Public Media’s "Dracula," a modernized take on the original work by Bram Stoker, adapted for the radio in four parts by Crystal Hyde.The following audio drama contains content that may be frightening or disturbing. Listener discretion is advised.FEATURING: Wesley Early as the narratorAmmon Swenson as Jonathan HarkerLori Townsend as Countess DraculaCrystal Hyde as MariaMatt Faubion as the carriage driver.Join us next week for Episode 2.
How your Permanent Fund Dividend check can support those in need | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedIt’s the first week of October, and you know what that means. Thousands of Alaskans woke up on Friday to find Permanent Fund Dividend checks deposited into their bank accounts. The modest amount of $1,000 was the lowest in five years, and with inflation factored in, the lowest in state history. But even though the dollars received has shrunk, it hasn’t slowed down Alaskans generosity to Pick Click Give, a program that allows residents to donate a portion of their PFD to non-profits of their choosing. On today’s show we look at where those Pick Click Give resources go and look ahead to what smaller PFDs could mean for the program.Also featured: Episode 1 of Alaska Public Media's Dracula.HOST: Dave WaldronGUESTS:Jennifer Cross, Program Officer, Pick Click GiveDaniel Bentle, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Food Bank of AlaskaLINKS:Pick Click GiveFood Bank of Alaska
Anchorage's concealed creatures | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedPicture yourself on your favorite trail in Anchorage, the scent of spruce in the air and the soft crunch of leaves beneath your boots. It seems quiet, but are you truly alone? No. Concealed critters are all around you, hidden in the trees, underbrush and in the shadows, living their wild lives just out of sight. On this episode we hear from a local biologist and ornithologist as we explore how urban wildlife thrives quietly alongside us and how to start seeing the unseen.HOST: Kim SherryGUESTS:Cory Stantorf, biologistLisa Pajot, ornithologistLINKS:Alaska Department of Fish and GameADF&G Bird and Bat BoxesBird TLC
50 years of the Municipality of Anchorage | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedThe Municipality of Anchorage is turning 50-years-old, and to celebrate the occasion the Muni is hosting a series of events that showcase the city of Anchorage, and how far we've come. On this episode we hear from historian and Anchorage Daily News writer David Reamer, who will be presenting at one of the events.Hear about the history of Anchorage's neighborhoods, what lead to creating the Municipality, and Reamer's upcoming talk "A History of Anchorage’s Older Neighborhoods: Government Hill, Mountain View, Fairview, and Spenard.”HOST: Dave WaldronGUEST: David Reamer, historianLINKS:Municipality of Anchorage 50-year-anniversary pageMuni 50th anniversary eventsDavid Reamer's "A History of Anchorage’s Older Neighborhoods: Government Hill, Mountain View, Fairview, and Spenard"
Peeking behind the curtain of Anchorage's drag scene | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedGet ready for sequins, sass and stories from the stage, because on this episode we chat with two fabulous drag queens from Anchorage about the art, joy and community of drag in Alaska. From their first heels to fundraising for nonprofits, this is a fun and glamorous peek behind the curtain of the local drag scene! HOST: Kim Sherry GUESTS: Golden Delicious Athena Nuff LINKS: Golden Delicous Instagram Athena Nuff Instagram Drag Me to the Movies
Hear from the author of "Secret Alaska: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure" | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode we dive into a new book that explores everything odd and fantastic about our state. The book is called "Secret Alaska: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure" and it’s billed as an offering for everybody from “seasoned explorer to armchair adventurer.”Author Bailey Berg is a journalist who has written for the New York Times, The Washington Post and many others. She’s also written extensively about Alaska where she lives half the year, splitting her time between here and Colorado.HOST: Dave WaldronGUEST: Bailey Berg, author/journalistLINKS:Bailey Berg websiteInstagramFind book HERE
Bean to bar chocolate is more complicated than you might think | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedWarning: this episode may cause cravings! This week on Hometown, Alaska, we’re talking all things chocolate with local Anchorage artisan chocolate makers. From bean to bar, discover how this sweet craft made its way to Alaska—and how one small business is turning cacao into community. Today we’ll be talking chocolate and taking a kitchen tour with Suzanne Bostrom and Jimmy Ord, Owners & Chocolate Makers of Wildland Chocolate. HOST: Kim Sherry GUESTS: Suzanne Bostrom and Jimmy Ord, Owners, Wildland Chocolate LINKS: Wildland Chocolate website Instagram Facebook
Revitalizing Town Square Park | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedIf you've recently visited Town Square Park downtown, you may have noticed some cosmetic upgrades. Built back in 1984, the park was intended to not only serve as a compliment to the Performing Arts Center, but as a centerpiece of Anchorage. The space has gone through a lot of changes over its 40 years but recently, many of those changes haven’t been good. Earlier this year Anchorage voters approved a bond that would overhaul and revitalize the park. On this episode we hear what our brand new Townsquare Park will look like, and everything that has led up to the space's much-needed makeover. HOST: Dave Waldron GUEST: Becky LINKS: Town Square Park planned improvements Town Square Park implementation concept
Everyone's a little Scottish at the Highland Games | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedWe are looking ahead to an annual event that celebrates all things Scottish, from bagpipes, to tea, to tug of war and much more. The Scottish Highland Games will be taking place at the Alaska State Fairgrounds June 28 and 29. On this episode, we give you a full showcase of the things you can find at this year’s event. Later on the program we talk with a competitor who specializes in heavy athletics. HOST: Dave Waldron GUESTS: Jeni McDaniel, Executive Director of the Alaskan Scottish Club Nelson Alger, board member, Alaskan Scottish club/competitor LINKS: Alaska Scottish Highland Games information Alaskan Scottish Club website Facebook Instagram
How to get started with bonsai in Alaska | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedOn this episode, we dive into a world of miniature trees, ancient artistry and abundant patience. That’s right, we’re talking about bonsai. Our guest is Paul Marmora, past president of the Cook Inlet Bonsai Study Group. We hear how he got started, what it takes to care for these tiny living sculptures and how this centuries-old tradition has taken root in the Last Frontier. HOST: Kim Sherry GUEST: Paul Marmora LINK: Cook Inlet Bonsai Study Group
Upcoming series combines standup comedy and mental health | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedAlaska's stand-up comedy scene has been quietly gaining momentum and a new summer series at the Performing Arts Center is looking to find out just how sustainable that scene can be. On this episode, host Dave Waldron speaks with Bradley Butcher, a stand-up comic and the founder of Comedy Up North. The series debuts in June and will run through July. Hear about this year's roster, which homegrown comics are making a name for themselves and how the shows will work to normalize mental health discussions. Schedule: June 12: Michael Lenoci June 26: Nicole Aimée Schreiber July 10: Ian Edwards July 24: Jade Catta-Preta HOST: Dave Waldron GUEST: Bradley Butcher, founder, Comedy Up North LINKS: Comedy Up North TICKETS
Exploring Anchorage's food scene | Hometown, Alaska
ListenedDaniella Ambrosino is a local food lover, social media influencer and someone who is right in the middle of Anchorage’s growing, global food scene. On this episode, we dive into how social media and cultural trends are bringing exciting new flavors to our city — and yes, there will be some taste testing along the way! HOST: Kim Sherry GUEST: Daniella Ambrosino, @eatlocal_drinklocal