For my grandfather, August Heitman, whose name is inscribed on one of the Russian bells at the Kodiak Russian Orthodox Church. I hear Russian bells tonight So faint and yet so clear Though you are now so far away The bells have brought...

When you return, your hair will be longer and your Alutiiq skin darkened from the sun’s reflection shining off the Pacific Ocean. “Ukalah!” I will hear you shout as the boat pulls into the unloading dock. You’ll be standing on the deck of the Gallant Girl in...

I was born and raised in Kodiak. For those who aren’t familiar, it is an island in the gulf of Alaska, 100 miles long by 10 miles to 60 miles wide. A large percentage of the island is wilderness...