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Granberg MK-IV Alaskan Review – Forestry Reviews

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Granberg MK-IV Alaskan Review – Forestry Reviews


The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is a chainsaw mill that has gained widespread popularity among woodworkers and forestry enthusiasts. With its robust construction, adjustable design, and precise cutting capabilities, this chainsaw mill has become a reliable tool for those seeking to turn logs into lumber. In this review, we will explore the features, performance, pros and cons, user experiences, maintenance tips, and affordability of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan.

When it comes to milling logs into usable lumber, having a dependable tool is crucial. The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan offers a solution for woodworkers, allowing them to transform raw logs into various sizes of timber. With this chainsaw mill, you can maximize the potential of your chainsaw and create custom lumber for your projects. Let’s delve deeper into the features and specifications of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan.

Features and Specifications of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan

The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is known for its sturdy construction and durability. Made from high-quality materials, this chainsaw mill can withstand the rigors of heavy-duty milling operations. Its adjustable and versatile design enables it to accommodate various log sizes and shapes. Additionally, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is compatible with a wide range of chainsaw models, providing flexibility to users.

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One of the standout features of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is its cutting capacity and accuracy. With precise adjustments and a well-engineered frame, this chainsaw mill ensures consistent and clean cuts. Whether you need dimensional lumber or slabs, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan delivers excellent results.

Setting up the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan

Setting up the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is a straightforward process. Begin by assembling the mill frame, following the provided instructions. Once the frame is set up, mount your chainsaw securely onto the mill. It is essential to choose a chainsaw that is compatible with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan for optimal performance. Finally, adjust the depth of cut according to your desired lumber thickness.

Performance and Ease of Use

When it comes to performance, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan excels. The smooth and efficient cutting action allows for effortless milling. Even when dealing with large logs, this chainsaw mill maintains stability and control. The user-friendly operation ensures that both seasoned professionals and beginners can achieve accurate cuts consistently. Whether you are milling boards for a construction project or producing slabs for woodworking, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan delivers satisfying results.

Pros and Cons of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan:

Pros:

  1. Sturdy Construction and Durability: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is built with high-quality materials, ensuring a durable and long-lasting chainsaw mill. Its robust construction enables it to withstand heavy-duty milling operations and withstand the test of time.
  2. Adjustable and Versatile Design: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan features an adjustable design, allowing it to accommodate various log sizes and shapes. This versatility enables woodworkers to create custom lumber of different dimensions to suit their specific project needs.
  3. Compatibility with Different Chainsaw Models: One of the significant advantages of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is its compatibility with a wide range of chainsaw models. This flexibility means that you can use your existing chainsaw with the mill, saving you the need to invest in a dedicated chainsaw for milling purposes.
  4. Cutting Capacity and Accuracy: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan offers excellent cutting capacity and accuracy. With precise adjustments and a well-engineered frame, this chainsaw mill ensures consistent and clean cuts, resulting in high-quality lumber production.
  5. Smooth and Efficient Cutting: Users of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan praise its smooth and efficient cutting action. It allows for effortless milling, reducing the effort required while producing precise cuts. This makes the milling process more enjoyable and efficient.

Cons:

  1. Precise Adjustments Required: To achieve optimal results with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, precise adjustments are necessary. Users need to carefully set up the mill, align the chainsaw, and make adjustments for the desired depth of cut. This process may require some practice and attention to detail.
  2. Physical Effort for Larger Logs: When milling larger logs, it can require physical effort to handle and maneuver them through the mill. The weight and size of the logs can pose challenges and may require additional assistance or tools to ensure safe and effective milling.
  3. Additional Accessories: While the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan provides the essential framework for chainsaw milling, some users may find it beneficial to invest in additional accessories to enhance their experience. These accessories can include log supports, guide rails, and safety equipment, adding to the overall cost.
  4. Learning Curve for Beginners: If you are new to chainsaw milling, there may be a learning curve involved in operating the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan effectively. Understanding the adjustments, proper cutting techniques, and safety precautions will require some initial practice and patience.
  5. Limitations for Professional Use: While the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is a capable chainsaw mill, it may have limitations for professional or industrial-grade milling operations. If you have large-scale milling requirements or need to handle extremely heavy logs, you may need to explore more powerful and specialized milling equipment.

Considering these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision about whether the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is the right chainsaw mill for your specific needs and woodworking projects.

Comparison with Other Chainsaw Mills

 Norwood PortaMill
Granberg MK-IV Alaskan

One chainsaw mill that can be compared to the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is the Norwood PortaMill. Let’s explore the comparison between the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill:

The Norwood PortaMill is another popular chainsaw mill known for its quality and performance. Similar to the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, it allows woodworkers to transform logs into lumber with the use of a chainsaw. Here’s how the two compare:

  1. Construction and Durability: Both the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill are constructed with durability in mind. They are made from high-quality materials to withstand the demands of milling operations. However, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is often praised for its robust construction, which provides exceptional longevity and reliability.
  2. Adjustability and Versatility: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill offer adjustable designs to accommodate different log sizes and shapes. However, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is often regarded as more versatile, allowing for greater flexibility in milling operations. Its wide range of adjustability options provides woodworkers with more customization possibilities for their lumber.
  3. Compatibility with Chainsaw Models: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is known for its compatibility with a wide range of chainsaw models, offering flexibility to users. On the other hand, the Norwood PortaMill is designed to work specifically with Norwood chainsaws, which can limit its compatibility options. This aspect gives the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan an advantage over those who already own a chainsaw.
  4. Cutting Capacity and Accuracy: Both the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill are capable of delivering precise and accurate cuts. However, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan has a reputation for its exceptional cutting capacity and accuracy. Its well-engineered frame and precise adjustments ensure consistent and clean cuts, making it a preferred choice for those seeking high-quality lumber production.
  5. Ease of Use and Smooth Cutting: The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is often praised for its smooth and efficient cutting action, which results in an enjoyable milling experience. While the Norwood PortaMill provides satisfactory cutting performance, the smoothness and ease of use offered by the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan set it apart.

Both the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan and the Norwood PortaMill have their strengths, but the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan’s sturdy construction, wider chainsaw compatibility, exceptional cutting capacity, and smooth cutting action give it a competitive edge in the chainsaw mill market.

User Reviews and Experiences

Using the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, I have been thoroughly impressed with its performance, and it seems I’m not alone. Let me share some user reviews and experiences that highlight the satisfaction and success that many have had with this chainsaw mill:

  1. Mark, a seasoned woodworker, raves about the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, stating that it has revolutionized his milling process. He praises its sturdy construction, which has withstood the test of time, even with extensive use. Mark emphasizes that the mill provides consistent and accurate cuts, allowing him to create precise lumber for his woodworking projects.
  2. Sarah, a hobbyist woodworker, shares her positive experience with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. She notes that the adjustable design has been a game-changer for her, as she often works with logs of various sizes. Sarah appreciates the ease of setup and operation, finding it user-friendly and beginner-friendly. She emphasizes that the mill’s smooth cutting action has made her milling tasks enjoyable and efficient.
  3. John, a professional furniture maker, commends the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan for its exceptional compatibility with different chainsaw models. He highlights that this feature allows him to utilize his existing chainsaws, saving him the expense of purchasing dedicated milling equipment. John also praises the accuracy and precision of the mill, noting that it has significantly improved the quality of his lumber.
  4. Lisa, a small-scale sawmill owner, shares her success story with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. She highlights its versatility in handling various log sizes and shapes, which has been crucial for her business. Lisa emphasizes that the mill’s cutting capacity has allowed her to process logs quickly and efficiently, resulting in increased productivity and profitability.
  5. Michael, an avid DIYer, expresses his satisfaction with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. He highlights the product’s durability, even under demanding milling conditions. Michael shares that the mill’s adjustability has provided him with endless possibilities for creating custom lumber for his projects, enabling him to unleash his creativity in woodworking.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan, proper maintenance is essential. Regular cleaning and lubrication help prevent debris buildup and extend the life of the chainsaw mill. Blade sharpening and replacement is necessary to maintain the accuracy of cuts. By following these maintenance tips, you can keep the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan in excellent condition for years to come

Price and Affordability

The price of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan varies depending on the specific model and its features. It is important to consider the cost-value proposition when making a purchase decision. The quality, durability, and performance of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan justify its price tag. Moreover, the long-term savings achieved by producing your own lumber contribute to its affordability in the long run.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is a reliable and versatile chainsaw mill that offers woodworkers the ability to transform logs into high-quality lumber. With its sturdy construction, adjustable design, and precise cutting capabilities, this chainsaw mill has gained a reputation for excellence. Whether you are a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan provides an efficient and effective solution for your milling needs.

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FAQs

  1. How long does it take to set up the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan?
    The setup time for the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan can vary depending on your familiarity with the product and the chainsaw model you are using. On average, it can take around 30 minutes to an hour to assemble the mill frame, mount the chainsaw, and make necessary adjustments for the depth of cut.
  2. Can the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan be used with any chainsaw?
    The Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is designed to be compatible with a wide range of chainsaw models. However, it is essential to ensure that your chainsaw meets the specifications and requirements of the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. The manufacturer provides compatibility guidelines, and it’s advisable to refer to them or consult customer support to ensure proper fitment.
  3. Is it possible to achieve precise cuts with this chainsaw mill?
    Yes, it is possible to achieve precise cuts with the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan. The mill’s adjustable design, combined with careful setup and proper operation, allows for accurate and clean cuts. However, it is important to follow the instructions, make precise adjustments, and practice proper milling techniques to achieve the desired level of precision.
  4. Can the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan handle hardwood logs?
    Yes, the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan is designed to handle various types of wood, including hardwood logs. With its sturdy construction and powerful chainsaw compatibility, it can effectively mill hardwood logs into desired lumber thicknesses. However, it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the hardwood you are working with and make appropriate adjustments for optimal cutting performance.
  5. Does the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan come with a warranty?
    The warranty coverage for the Granberg MK-IV Alaskan may vary depending on the region and the specific model. It is advisable to check the manufacturer’s warranty information or contact customer support to determine the warranty duration and terms. Typically, reputable manufacturers provide warranties to cover manufacturing defects and ensure customer satisfaction.

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Alaska

Alaska will fly nonstop Sea-Tac to Europe in 2026, CEO Ben Minicucci says

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Alaska will fly nonstop Sea-Tac to Europe in 2026, CEO Ben Minicucci says


This Thursday, Feb. 13, 2020 file photo shows Alaska Airlines’ then-president Ben Minicucci in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Alaska Airlines’ next new nonstop route from Seattle will be to Europe in 2026, CEO Ben Minicucci confirmed this week in an interview where he laid out his vision for the next few years at Alaska.

Minicucci, a 20-year Alaska Air veteran who was named CEO in 2021, said the recent merger with Hawaiian Airlines is a “step change” for the airline, one that will allow it to expand its reach from the West Coast to other trans-Pacific hubs. Seattle will be at the center of that expansion, with plans to add 12 nonstop global routes with long-haul widebody airplanes by 2030.

Alaska has already announced two of those routes: one to Seoul, South Korea, starting in September and another to Tokyo Narita starting Monday. Hawaiian Airlines was already flying to those destinations, so Alaska was able to capitalize on the infrastructure and expertise it inherited through the $1.9 billion merger that closed in September.

The undisclosed European destination coming next could be a bigger lift. Neither Alaska nor Hawaiian has a presence there.

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But Minicucci isn’t worried about the risks. For one thing, he said, Alaska knows what Seattle travelers want and believes the airline could stimulate demand with the new offering. For another, he encourages daring moves at the company, Minicucci said in a recent interview with The Seattle Times, striking a tone reminiscent of Big Tech CEOs out to disrupt industries.

“I want to give our people the ability not to be afraid. I want you to be bold, aggressive, try things. Because nobody ever does great things if you’re always safe,” Minicucci said. “Sometimes you have to put yourself out there and take a little bit of a chance, and feel a little bit that nervousness in your stomach and say ‘Wow, is this going to work?’ ”

Minicucci matches the demeanor of his edict to be fearless. Seated in a nook off the hallway on the upper floor of Alaska’s SeaTac headquarters, he was relaxed as he spoke about the airline’s future. Minicucci said hello to colleagues that walked by, giving off the air of a CEO who is often present in the office overlooking Sea-Tac Airport.

Originally from Montreal, Minicucci joined Alaska in 2004. He worked as vice president of maintenance, vice president of Seattle operations and president of Alaska Airlines, overseeing Alaska’s 2016 acquisition of Virgin America. He took over as CEO from Brad Tilden in 2021. On Thursday, Alaska shareholders approved a compensation package worth $8.6 million for Minicucci in 2024, a dip from the $10.3 million awarded a year earlier.

Nearly five years into his tenure as CEO and nine months into Alaska’s merger with Hawaiian Airlines, Minicucci said he’s moving with more conviction than before.

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With the Virgin acquisition, Alaska went slowly, spent a lot of time analyzing decisions and often said “we’re not sure,” Minicucci said. This time, “We made a lot of the decisions out of the gate.”

Betting on new routes

The calculation that goes into picking a new route is a mix of science and art, said Kirsten Amrine, who is in charge of planning Alaska’s network of flights.

The science comes from numbers: Alaska can use industry data to see where and how frequently people are flying, and how much they are willing to pay.

The art is the reason Amrine and her team have jobs, Amrine joked in a recent interview. That side of the equation comes with knowing travelers and anticipating where Alaska’s customers may want to go.

As an example, Amrine pointed to Alaska’s decision to add a direct flight from Seattle to Belize in 2021.

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The science didn’t necessarily support that decision, Amrine said. But Alaska’s network planning team knew Seattleites liked adventure and destinations that allowed them to get off the grid. Flights to Costa Rica performed well, so Alaska was willing to bet Belize would be the same.

Amrine considers that decision a success. The number of people flying from Seattle to Belize tripled.

Those types of route calculations are happening all the time. Amrine starts every Saturday morning looking at what changes Alaska’s competitors have made to their network.

Alaska makes weekly changes as well. Those decisions are finalized by Wednesday morning, Amrine said.

But the airline’s plans have a long tail. Alaska books out 331 days in advance, so the decisions made this Wednesday will affect flights in April 2026.

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If Alaska is wrong on the science and the art of a destination, the biggest risk is “opportunity cost,” Amrine said. Every destination the airline picks means it can’t take a chance on a different destination, so “you want to think long-term,” Amrine said.

Minicucci holds a similar view. Unlike construction, which can be hard to reverse, airplanes are meant to move, he said.

He pointed to a recent attempt to start nonstop routes from Seattle to the Bahamas in 2023. Alaska ended that Nassau flight this year, determining that the market wasn’t there.

“It didn’t work,” Minicucci said. “We’re going to flip that and put that airplane somewhere else.”

Seattle is somewhat of a testing ground for Alaska, Minicucci said. When the airline expanded routes to Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., for example, it started offering flights from Seattle, then Portland, then San Francisco and Los Angeles, and now San Diego.

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Alaska’s international expansion similarly is focused on Seattle now because “we know that’s going to work,” Minicucci said. “But in 10 years, in 20 years, as our airline continues to grow and do better, who knows where we’ll fly (out of) internationally?”

No longer “all Boeing”

The Hawaiian acquisition will put Alaska at odds with the tagline displayed on the nose of many of its planes: “Proudly all Boeing.”

As it integrates the two fleets, Alaska will inherit 24 widebody planes from Boeing’s European rival Airbus.

It’s not the first time Alaska has inherited Airbus planes — it added 60 Airbus aircraft when it acquired Virgin America in a 2016 deal. But it spent the next few years retiring those Airbus planes, hoping to capitalize on the efficiency of operating just one type of plane. That can make it easier and less expensive to train pilots and keep up with maintenance. Alaska was finally “proudly all Boeing” in September 2023.

This time around, Alaska will keep the Airbus planes, Minicucci said, and is relying on them to prop up its trans-Pacific expansion.

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The Airbus A319 and A320 narrowbody planes Alaska inherited when it acquired Virgin were too similar to the Boeing 737 planes it was already flying, Minicucci said. Comparatively, the A330 widebodies Alaska inherited from Hawaiian will add new capabilities to Alaska’s fleet, allowing it to reach markets it couldn’t access with the 737.

Alaska also expects to receive 12 of Boeing’s widebody equivalent, the 787 Dreamliner, by 2028.

Alaska’s growing widebody fleet

As Alaska works to expand across the Pacific, it’s relying on a new fleet of widebody aircraft that will allow it to travel farther than the narrowbody planes it already operates.

“We have all the arrows in our quiver,” Minicucci said. “That gives us the possibility of reaching pretty much wherever we want to go out of Seattle.”

Because both Boeing and Airbus have such a large backlog of orders, it would have taken years for Alaska to receive the same Airbus widebody planes it is now gearing up to integrate into its fleet.

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Moving away from “proudly all Boeing,” will add some complexities, Minicucci said, adding that he was confident his team could handle it smoothly. Pilots will go through additional training and simulations. Maintenance will require new facilities and tools. Even loading baggage on widebodies requires different equipment than that for the 737.

The Airbus A330s will be housed in Honolulu, using Hawaiian’s existing infrastructure. Alaska will build a new hangar to accommodate the Boeing 787 planes on the West Coast, though Minicucci couldn’t yet say where.

Finalizing the merger

Alaska laid out four milestones on its path to integrate the two airlines.

First, it will combine frequent flyer programs. Then, it must receive a single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, meaning the safety regulator has signed off that one set of management is in charge of both airlines and the combined carrier is operating safely.

Alaska plans to cross both those milestones by the end of the year.

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After that, it will bring both airlines under one reservation system by mid-2026.

Lastly, it will combine the two unionized workforces and settle joint collective bargaining agreements. Those negotiations have already started and Alaska hopes to finalize agreements by 2027.

While Alaska is integrating Hawaiian into its operations, it wants to keep both brands distinct. So, even though customers will be able to use the same reservation system to book a flight on Alaska or Hawaiian, the onboard experience will be different. Flights to, from and within Hawaii will keep the Pualani logo on the plane’s tail.

Operating two distinct brands isn’t something airlines usually do after a merger and Minicucci said he faced some skepticism about the decision. But he’s “totally convicted” on doing so.

“That brand is just too special. It has a lot of equity and value, especially in the state of Hawaii,” he said. “I am convicted and resolute that brand is there forever.”

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The concerns don’t faze him, Minicucci continued. “Just because it’s never been done, doesn’t mean it can’t be done.”





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Before he rose to fame and sparked controversy, L. Ron Hubbard was a seafaring radio host in Alaska

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Before he rose to fame and sparked controversy, L. Ron Hubbard was a seafaring radio host in Alaska


L. Ron Hubbard in Los Angeles, California in 1950. (Los Angeles Daily News / UCLA Library via Wikimedia Commons)

Last week, this column covered the curious path of hard-boiled crime writer Dashiell Hammett, who was near 50, sickly, a celebrity and a Communist Party member when he went from Hollywood fame to Army enlistment to his posting in remote Adak. Of course, Hammett was far from the only celebrated author with ties or at least a significant visit to Alaska. From Jack London to freshly minted Pulitzer winner Tessa Hulls, Alaska has lured and inspired numerous writers. Next week’s column will cover two particularly diverse examples: Shel Silverstein and Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. And this week is yet another disparate character, L. Ron Hubbard.

When Lafayette “you may call him L” Ron Hubbard (1911-1986) washed ashore at Ketchikan on Aug. 31, 1940, he was a generally well-regarded author of pulp magazine tales. Today, he is overwhelmingly recognized as the inventor/founder of Scientology, and of shakier reputation. But 1940 Hubbard was years away from Xenu and his volcano, “Dianetics” (1950), the science-fiction novel “Battlefield Earth” (1982), and the maligned film adaptation starring Scientologist John Travolta that bombed in 2000, long may its memory fade.

Back then, he was best known for his prolific writing and numerous pseudonyms. During the 1930s, a heyday of Wild West, detective and other pulpy genre adventure magazines, it seemed like every other issue contained a Hubbard story. His official biographies make outlandish claims that he wrote more than 7 million words during the decade, but the actual output of around 160 articles published from 1933 to 1941 still represents a rather fevered pace.

Hubbard was sailing around Alaska as part of what he grandiosely referred to as the Alaskan Radio Experimental Expedition, though he indeed carried the prestigious Explorer’s Club flag, a distinction typically reserved for scientific expeditions. And Hubbard accordingly claimed he was testing various instruments and methods of radio position finding.

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In 2018, the Church of Scientology held an awards banquet for 70 of their most significant benefactors at the Cape Fox Lodge in Ketchikan, part of their pattern to hold events in places where Hubbard visited, worked, or lived. Per the church, Hubbard “came up to study the Tlingit Indian tribes, and send back a finding of the research of the tribes and the ethnological factors of the Indians here.”

Ketchikan, the first stop that tourists make sailing on the Alaska steamship line, pictured between 1935 and 1940. (Library of Congress via Wikimedia Commons)

Back in 1940, The Ketchikan Chronicle offered a humbler description of his arrival and intentions. “Capt. L. Ron Hubbard, author and world traveler, arrived in Ketchikan in company with his wife aboard the vest pocket yacht, Magician. His purpose in coming to Alaska was two-fold, one to win a bet and another to gather material for a novel of Alaska salmon fishing.” The bet was whether the 27-foot Magician, which Hubbard nicknamed the Maggie, would survive the voyage north. The further reality was a shot engine and empty pockets, meaning a large part of a winter stranded in Ketchikan.

Russell Miller’s critical 1987 biography, “Bare-Faced Messiah,” notes Hubbard’s friends called the voyage “Ron and Polly’s trip.” Miller also quotes Hubbard’s Aunt Marnie: “Ron dreamed up the trip as a way of outfitting the Maggie. His brain was always working and when he was trying to figure out how he could afford to outfit the boat he wrote letters to all these different manufacturers of instruments and equipment offering to test them out.”

Suffice to say, accounts vary. No matter, there is little reason to believe Hubbard and his wife spent months in Ketchikan except for the need to earn enough money for boat repairs and subsequent escape. But a dashing young author, near enough a celebrity as far as locals thought, stood out around town. The 29-year-old writer soon found work with the KGBU, now KTKN, radio station, an announcer and as the host of his own program, “Mail Buoy.” It would be more accurate to say that the station eagerly offered him a position and hoped he would never leave.

L. Ron Hubbard and Thomas Moulton at the Albina Engine and Machine Works, April 22, 1943, in Portland, Oregon. (Oregon Journal via Wikimedia Commons)

Longtime Ketchikan historian June Allen (1929-2016) recalled the opening to the show in a 2005 SitNews article. “Station owner Jimmy Britton’s well-remembered and breathless, asthmatic voice grandly intoned over the airwaves: ‘KGBU brings you the Mail Buoy, a program especially designed for Alaskan boatmen. It is the hope of this station that the exchange of information regarding the sea and ships will be found of benefit to those who wish to brush up on their calling, to those who wish to study the fine art of fighting the sea, and to those old-timers who can help the world to remember how to make all things shipshape and Bristol-fashion by keeping close tally on the data contained in this presentation.’” After describing the host, Britton declared, “Here now is Captain Hubbard,” followed by four bells and a jingle.

True to concept, the show was focused on practical maritime matters, with episodes on “Handling Your Hull” and “Anchors.” Other episodes answered listener questions, such as the “crackling and hissing” static heard on radio broadcasts, which he blamed on older radios and interference from electrical appliances. As might be expected, Hubbard was smooth on air, quick with a story and instantly a popular listen.

He also later claimed that he utilized his radio expertise to assist the FBI in tracking down a Nazi saboteur. No official records have been found to verify this tale, but Hubbard did write a short story inspired by his time in Ketchikan. In “Chee-Chalker,” first published in 1947, a tenderfoot FBI agent unravels a string of murders and uncovers a heroin smuggling ring, while entangling himself with a halibut heiress, as one does. A “chee chalker” is Hubbard’s version of a “cheechako.”

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Years later, Hubbard said of notoriously vice-ridden Ketchikan, “They have there in Ketchikan, the only stream in the world where the fish and the fisherman go up to spawn. It’s a red-light district. It stretches up around the curve, a very beautiful stream. But the buildings have trap doors — most of Ketchikan is built over water. The fishermen — it’s mostly fishermen that come in there with any money — wear rather heavy rubber boots, and water gets into these boots rather quickly, and they go down rather fast. But when the police do find a fisherman drowned or floating there in the straits without anything in his pockets, they look him over very carefully and say, ‘Hmmm! Suicide!’”

L. Ron and Sara Hubbard aboard the schooner Blue Water II in Miami, in June 1946. (Miami Daily News via Wikimedia Commons)

During his radio broadcasts, Hubbard always found a chance to mention that he and his wife were stuck in Ketchikan because Regal Company of Bremerton, Washington, made a defective crankshaft and refused to replace it. Over and over, it was Regal Company’s fault. And when a new crankshaft arrived that December, he was believed it was only due to his on-air admonishments. Regardless, the Hubbards left as soon as the engine was fixed and arrived back in the Lower 48 on Dec. 27, 1940.

In addition to the gifted crankshaft, he also borrowed money around town, for living and repair expenses. Most notably, he owed First National Bank $265, about $6,000 in 2025 money. When World War II began, Hubbard went in the Naval Reserve. The bank thus tracked him down via the Navy. He agreed to pay the interest on the principal but claimed hardships prevented him from paying more. In an Oct. 29, 1942 letter, he wrote, “You are again informed that the reason of non-payment of this note is the sharp decrease in pay which I was willing to take to help my country. Until this war is ended and I can resume my former profession I can make only small and irregular payments.” It is unclear when or if the debt was settled.

A letter from L. Ron Hubbard to the First National Bank of Ketchikan, dated Oct. 28, 1942, that discusses his plan to pay off a note from the bank. (National Archives image)

There was one last relevant intersection of Hubbard and Alaska. Per an official proclamation by Alaska Gov. Steve Cowper, March 13, 1989 was to be L. Ron Hubbard Day — that is, until interrupted by then-Daily News reporter, and now novelist, Stan Jones. In a scathing article, Jones recounted the many allegations, scandals and lawsuits regarding Scientology, including the claim by Hubbard’s own son that his father created the religion “off the top of his head while he was under the influence of drugs,” the latter from an interview originally published in Christianity Today. “Hubbard Day” was quickly canceled, with the governor deciding he “does not identify” with the church or Hubbard.

Cowper’s press secretary, David Ramseur, told Jones, “Those proclamations come through the press office and I approve them. The governor does not sign off on proclamations unless they’re of enormous consequence. Or of more significant consequence than this.” Ramseur additionally noted that such proclamations were signed by a pen. Therefore, Cowper never actually saw the Hubbard Day proclamation and knew nothing about it. Jones asked Ramseur how much research was conducted before the declaration was approved, to which the press secretary replied, “Not much.”

A Daily News editorial stated, “If anybody in the governor’s press office had known the difference between scientology and Shinola, L. Ron wouldn’t have got a minute, let alone a day.” That said, it continued, “Gov. Cowper could do Alaskans a favor by tossing all those proclamations in his shredder and declaring Monday ‘No More Proclamations Day.’ The governor — and for that matter the legislature — has proclaimed enough.”

Anchorage Mayor Tom Fink‘s press office was more familiar with Scientology or more diligent in their research. They also received the suggestion for a “Hubbard Day” but rejected it out of hand. Fink aide Yvonne Alford told the Daily News, “Part of it, of course, is the controversy that surrounds the Church of Scientology and, further, Dianetics is a commercial enterprise. We do read the information that comes in for proclamations.”

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Sometimes, usually, it is for the best that the future is unknown. At the least, it would have complicated matters for the denizens of a small fishing and lumber town to know where their local radio host would go, what he would become. Had he wanted to stay, he would have been welcomed, but greater fortunes awaited. His stint in Ketchikan was relatively brief and of little import, particularly compared to the self-created tumult of the decades that followed. Yet, he never forgot Alaska. References to his time in the north abound in his official biographies, and his Ketchikan tenure is an appreciated aspect of his personal journey. All to say, it proves that the immensity and grandeur of Alaska affects us all, affects every sort of person.

Key sources:

Allen, June. “L. Ron Hubbard’s Alaska Adventure.” SitNews, January 19, 2005.

“Church of Scientology meets in SE.” Sitka Sentinel, April 27, 2018, 6.

Jones, Stan. “Governor Gives Day to L. Ron Hubbard.” Anchorage Daily News, March 9, 1989, A1, A14.

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Miller, Russell. Bare-Faced Messiah: The True Story of L. Ron Hubbard.

Persily, Larry. “Scientologists Refute Reports.” Anchorage Daily News, March 14, 1989, B1, B3.

“Whereas and Therefore.” Anchorage Daily News, March 10, 1989, B4.





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Alaska Sports Scoreboard: May 10, 2025

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Alaska Sports Scoreboard: May 10, 2025


Service senior catcher Gideon Lesslie makes a catch as South Anchorage baserunner freshman Landon Gasser scores during the Cougars’ 16-9 victory over the Wolverines at Mulcahy Stadium on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. (Bill Roth / ADN)

High School

Soccer

Girls

Monday

West 1, Eagle River 1

Dimond 10, Bartlett 0

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Chugiak 1, Service 1

Tuesday

Grace Christian 10, Redington 3

Soldotna 2, Homer 0

Lathrop 1, West Valley 0

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Wednesday

Dimond 10, East 0

South Anchorage 5, Service 1

West 5, Bartlett 0

Chugiak 10, Eagle River 0

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Monroe Catholic 10, Hutchison 0

Thursday

Palmer 4, Houston 1

Kenai Central 2, Grace Christian 1

Soldotna 2, Juneau-Douglas 1

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Wasilla 2, Lathrop 1

Friday

Soldotna 2, Ketchikan 1

Kenai Central 3, Palmer 0

Wasilla 2, West Valley 1

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Service 3, Bartlett 0

South 15, East 0

Colony 5, Lathrop 0

Saturday

Soldotna 3, Ketchikan 2

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Wasilla 6, North Pole 0

Kenai Central 12, Houston 1

Boys

Monday

Dimond 8, Bartlett 1

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West 11, Eagle River 1

Service 3, Chugiak 2

Tuesday

Grace Christian 7, Redington 2

Soldotna 1, Homer 0

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West Valley 9, Lathrop 0

Wednesday

Monroe Catholic 2, Hutchison 1

Dimond 2, East 2

Service 1, South 0

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Chugiak 7, Eagle River 0

West 7, Bartlett 2

Thursday

Redington 9, Nikiski 0

Kenai Central 2, Grace Christian 0

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Palmer 4, Houston 0

Wasilla 1, Lathrop 0

Juneau-Douglas 3, Soldotna 0

Friday

Grace Christian 7, Nikiski 1

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Soldotna 1, Ketchikan 0

West Valley 5, Wasilla 0

Service 5, Bartlett 0

Colony 3, Lathrop 0

Saturday

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Colony 3, West Valley 1

Palmer 13, Nikiski 0

Kenai Central 3, Houston 0

Ketchikan 3, Soldotna 2

• • •

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Softball

Monday

Dimond 8, Service 5

Soldotna 17, Homer 5

South 7, Dimond 6

Tuesday

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Palmer 4, Houston 3

Soldotna 13, Kenai Central 0

North Pole 11, Lathrop 1

Wednesday

Palmer 13, Redington 5

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South 2, Chugiak 0

North Pole 11, Hutchison 10

Thursday

Soldotna 9, Homer 6

Chugiak 2, Kenai Central 1

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Bartlett 13, Kenai Central 7

South 6, Colony 0

Service 2, West 0

Lathrop 9, Monroe Catholic 4

Dimond 6, East 5

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Friday

Soldotna 5, Kenai Central 2

Bartlett 18, Homer 0

Dimond 12, Juneau-Douglas 0

Sitka 13, Ketchikan 5

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Colony 10, Service 5

West Valley 18, North Pole 3

Dimond 8, West 5

East 7, Colony 0

Juneau-Douglas 13, Service 3

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Saturday

Colony 11, Service 0

East 3, Dimond 2

Colony 16, West 5

South 8, Colony 5

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• • •

Baseball

Monday

Grace Christian 13, Redington 12

Soldotna 17, Homer 7

South 14, Wasilla 2

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Eagle River 9, Chugiak 5

East 3, Bartlett 0

Tuesday

Colony 17, Houston 0

Chugiak 4, West 3

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West Valley 6, Monroe Catholic 2

Wednesday

Palmer 14, Redington 3

Colony 5, Chugiak 3

Service 16, South 9

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Eagle River 3, West 2

Thursday

North Pole 9, Monroe Catholic 2

Chugiak 16, East 0

Service 15, Bartlett 3

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Kodiak 14, Houston 12

Wasilla 16, Colony 4

South 7, Dimond 4

Friday

Redington 12, Delta 6

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Service 3, Eagle River 1

West Valley 12, North Pole 2

Homer 12, Kenai Central 7

Palmer 15, Kodiak 5

Sitka 3, Ketchikan 2

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Wasilla 10, East 0

Saturday

Redington 7, Delta 6

Chugiak 13, South 3

Eagle River 9, Bartlett 2

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Palmer 11, Houston 1

Soldotna 7, Kenai Central 4

West 9, Dimond 8

Sitka 24, Ketchikan 0

• • •

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Track and field

Anchorage Invite

Girls team scores

1. Dimond 27; 2. Mountain City Christian Academy 16; 2. Chugiak 16; 4. East 14; 5. Service 10; 6. Homer 8; 6. Kenai Central 8; 8. South Anchorage 6; 9. Soldotna 5; 10. Eagle River 4; 11. Seward 3

Boys team scores

1. Chugiak 25; 2. East 20; 2. South 20; 4. Bartlett 18; 5. West 10; 6. Kodiak 7; 7. Dimond 6; 8. Mountain City Christian Academy 5; 9. Eagle River 3; 10. Service 2; 11. Soldotna 1

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• • •

NAHL

Friday

Anchorage Wolverines 4, Wisconsin Windigo 2

Saturday

Anchorage Wolverines v. Wisconsin Windigo (late)

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• • •

2025 Love a Nurse Run 5k

Male Overall Results

1: Wesley McQuillin, Anchorage, AK 16:10; 2: Robert Pires, JBER, AK 17:13; 3: Jeremy Fairbanks, Anchorage, AK 18:38; 4: Collin Christiansen, Palmer, AK 19:04; 5: Avi Dashow, Anchorage, AK 21:42; 6: Jason Dashow, Anchorage, AK 22:53; 7: Joel Manalo, Anchorage, AK 24:01; 8: Corbyn Navas, Anchorage, AK 24:11; 9: Darren Essman, Palmer, AK 24:33; 10: Luiz Santos, Hortolândia, N/A 24:58; 11: Hunter Kluckman, Anchorage, AK 25:19; 12: Jeremiah Hassemer, Anchorage, AK 25:20; 13: Matt Skinner, Anchorage, AK 25:33; 14: Tim Haugan, Eagle River, AK 26:43; 15: Mark Jacobsen, Anchorage, AK 27:02; 16: Joash Marquez, Anchorage, AK 29:31; 17: Michael Perkins, Anchorage, AK 30:13; 18: Ronald Regacho, Anchorage, AK 31:27; 19: Oleg Glebov, Anchorage, AK 31:52; 20: Joe Milton, Anchorage, AK 32:12

Female Overall Results

1: Michelle Isaev, Anchorage, AK 21:10; 2: Andrea Resende, Anchorage, AK 22:25; 3: Andrea Ayers, Wasilla, AK 24:10; 4: Lydia Ortiz, Palmer, AK 24:41; 5: Izzy Dashow, Anchorage, AK 25:25; 6: Elayna Tunney, Anchorage, AK 26:49; 7: Janet Johnston, Anchorage, AK 26:52; 8: Yoe Isbell, Eagle River, AK 27:10; 9: Stephanie Hill, Anchorage, AK 27:11; 10: Sara Lopez, Anchorage, AK 27:48; 11: Deanna March, Anchorage, AK 28:05; 12: Kathy Jacobsen, Anchorage, AK 28:15; 13: Charlene Nidoy, Anchorage, AK 28:20; 14: Cecelia Ortiz, Palmer, AK 28:29; 15: Jenny Justinger, JBER, AK 28:35; 16: Kate McQuillin, Anchorage, AK 28:42; 17: Lindsay Wingerter, Eagle River, AK 30:14; 18: Ruby Wingerter, Eagle River, AK 30:29; 19: Johnna Lovelace, Anchorage, AK 31:08; 20: Sarah Oloughlin, Anchorage, AK 31:10

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• • •

2025 UAA Turnagain Arm Trail Run

8 Mile Run

Female

1. Anna Dalton, 49:12,3; 2. Sophie Wright, 50:48,2; 3. Mariah Graham, 53:41,2; 4. Shauna Severson, 54:04,1; 5. Ana Jager, Ana, 56:48,7; 6. Eva Marley-Jester, 58:25,5; 7. Mariah Brashar, 58:31,4; 8. Lauren Spinelli, 58:37,9; 9. Alison Matthews, 59:20,9; 10. Sabrina Farmer, 59:32,2

Male

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1. William McGovern, 42:09,7; 2. Zack Bursell, 43:05,8; 3. Lars Arneson, 43:45,3; 4. Chad Trammell, 43:54,2; 5. Cody Priest, 45:06,2; 6. Joshua Taylor, 45:37,0; 7. Nolan Gerlach, 46:14,0; 8. Eric Vilce, 47:50,4; 9. Connor Marth, 48:11,9; 10. Franklin Dekker, 48:20,9

4 Mile Run

Female

1. Calista Zuber, 25:00,0; 2. Jillian Gavalya, 26:29,1; 3. Sadie Benter, 29:47,0; 4. Emily Stewart, 29:59,4; 5. Elisabeth Angeles, 30:24,5; 6. Rachel James, 31:27,8; 7. Gwyneth Gavalya, 31:48,3; 8. Josie Hale, 32:23,4; 9. AddieAnn Randall, 32:52,0; 10. Kristyn Turney, 33:14,0

Male

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1. Thale Randall, 23:06,0; 2. Nash Paprocki, 26:18,0; 3. Agustin Inostroza, 29:15,8; 4. Brad Benter, 30:08,8; 5. Remington Roach, 31:47,9; 6. Finn Hamilton-Iverson, 34:10,4; 7. Zachary Burgess, 35:45,9; 8. Randy Sandvik, 37:51,9; 9. Matthew Sandvik, 38:32,0; 10. Derek Webster, 41:08,9





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