Glorianne Wollen

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Glorianne Wollen

In this interview recorded on April 18, 2025, longtime Harbor Master, community leader, and volunteer Glorianne “Glo” Wollen talks with student Trent Kittams. Glo reflects on growing up in a commercial fishing family and how those early experiences shaped her lifelong work. She discusses the history and future of fisheries management, why she’s hopeful for Alaska’s fishing industry, and the development of Petersburg’s waterfront as an important part of the community’s economic future. This interview was recorded for Mr. Shumway’s Senior Alaska History class at Petersburg High School.

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Ed Tagaban

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Ed Tagaban

In this interview recorded in the spring of 2025 for Mr. Shumway’s Senior Alaska History class at Petersburg High School, Ed Tagaban talks with his son, Joseph, about the culture of growing up in Petersburg, Alaska, and the many jobs he’s held over the years. Ed reflects on life in a small town “where everyone knows your name,” his experience growing up as the son of immigrants, and how he faced racism as a boy. He also shares what he enjoys most about his current work at the Harbor Master’s Office, offering heartfelt insights into community, resilience, and family in Petersburg.

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Wayne Short

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Wayne Short

In this interview recorded in the spring of 2025 for Mr. Shumway’s Senior Alaska History class at Petersburg High School, student Mirranda Carr speaks with Wayne Short about his remarkable life. Wayne shares stories of meeting his wife, Barbara, and their years living in Warm Springs Bay, Alaska after he returned from serving in World War II. He reflects on memories of his family and those who passed before him. An Alaska Pioneer, author, and beloved community member, Mr. Short passed away just a few weeks after this interview at the age of 98.

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Rob Schwartz

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Rob Schwartz

In this interview recorded in the spring of 2025 for Mr. Shumway’s Senior Alaska History class at Petersburg High School, student athlete Kaden Duke speaks with Rob Schwartz about his life and legacy. Rob talks about growing up in Petersburg, getting his start in commercial fishing, and his journey through college. He reflects on the opportunities that came with returning home to raise his family and build a life in the community. A legendary and well-loved wrestling coach at both Petersburg High School and Middle School, Rob shares his memories of teaching, coaching, and his experiences wrestling.

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Franz Schonberg

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Franz Schonberg

In this Spring 2025 interview for Mr. Shumway’s Senior Alaska History class at Petersburg High School, Franz Schonberg speaks with student Izabella Tarquino about the legacy of his great-uncle, Bob Thorstenson, Sr.—a pioneering figure in Petersburg’s history and the Pacific Northwest fishing industry. In the 1960s, Thorstenson became an investor and leader in a single fish processing plant in Petersburg, Alaska that eventually grew into the global company Icicle Seafoods. Franz reflects on the values, grit, and personal sacrifices that fueled this success. He also discusses how the story came full circle in 2025 when Icicle Seafoods was acquired by Silver Bay Seafoods, a modern, fisherman-owned company now at the forefront of Alaska’s salmon processing industry.

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Sig Mathisen

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Sig Mathisen

Sig Mathisen sits down with student deckhand, Erik Edwards, to reflect on his life growing up in Petersburg, Alaska, and his 45-year career as a commercial fisherman. In this spring 2025 interview for Mr. Shumway’s Senior Alaska History class at Petersburg High School, Sig shares insights into the evolution of fishing gear and technology across the decades. With deep knowledge and optimism, he explains why he remains hopeful about the future of commercial fishing in Petersburg.

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Julie Hursey

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Julie Hursey

Julie Hursey speaks with Iris Case about her journey to Petersburg, Alaska, initially to earn money for college. What started as a temporary move turned into a long-term commitment as she eventually returned to settle down. Julie shares her deep appreciation for the tight-knit community, highlighting the vital role of KFSK public radio. She reflects on the unique rewards—and challenges—of living in the Alaskan wilderness. This interview was recorded as an assignment for Mr. Shumway’s Senior Alaska History class at Petersburg High School.

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