Elder Voices: Hanna Takak

From summer of 2019, hear Hanna Takak of Shaktoolik speak on her family, her childhood, and the ever-changing nature of the world around her.

Reflecting over a hot cup of tea, Hanna remembers the time she thought a boat’s anchor was a bear and when her eldest son baked bread for three hours past the oven timer.

She explains why spring is her favorite time of year; she insists she can still pick berries; she remembers the chorus of a song from 1970.

Yet in-between these memories of the past, she wonders on the rising price of milk today and has questions about the future of her family.

Hear the first episode of a new season of Elder Voices with the audio player, above.

Image at top: Hanna Takak of Shaktoolik. Photo: JoJo Phillips, KNOM.

Did you enjoy this Elder Voices story?

Consider supporting our work by becoming a one-time or recurring donor.

Share this story

Recent Posts

Saint Michael Man Arrested Following Assault Reportedly Captured on Facebook Live

Ben Townsend July 25, 2024

Alaska State Troopers have arrested a Saint Michael man on multiple charges in an assault captured on video and shared on social media. According to an online trooper dispatch, troopers learned of the incident at about 7 p.m. Wednesday. Several concerned citizens reported viewing a Facebook Live video showing a

GCI’s Annual Refueling Effort Hits Halfway Point

Ben Townsend July 25, 2024

GCI’s annual refueling operation for its TERRA Network has hit the halfway point, according to a press release issued on July 22. The telecommunications company delivers approximately 106,000 gallons of fuel every year to power generators at remote mountaintop towers. Located far from commercial power grids, these remote towers rely

Man and woman sitting at same side of table discussing topic with audience.

City Manager Glenn Steckman to Leave Nome for East Coast Opportunity

Ben Townsend July 24, 2024

The City Council of Cambridge, Maryland met on Monday, July 22 to vote on the appointment of William Glenn Steckman as their new City Manager. Following a 5-0 vote held at 6:25 p.m. EST, the council formally picked Steckman from a pool of 15 applicants. Within two hours of the

National Weather Service Tracking Ash From Bezymianny Volcano, Potential Impact on Western Alaska

Ben Townsend July 24, 2024

Bezymianny Volcano, located on Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula west of the Aleutian Islands, erupted early Wednesday morning. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency the blast sent volcanic ash 40,000 feet into the atmosphere. Winds have begun pushing the ash towards the western Bering Sea. According to Rick Thoman with the Alaska