There are many ways to mark the change of seasons in Juneau: When the fireweed blooms, fades to white fluff, then disappears altogether; when devil’s club leaves turn to match the muted brown of the forest floor; when salmon carcasses wash up on Sandy Beach, jaws gaping; when snow dusts the mountaintops, reaching ever closer to sea level.
Here at the Juneau Empire, we are fortunate to be located on Channel Drive. In addition to having views of Gastineau Channel, we also have something rare in Juneau — a row of deciduous trees. Each year, the maple leaves stun us with their autumn colors: bright orange and burnt red.
The whole neighborhood (i.e. the Department of Transportation on one side and DIPAC on the other), I think, delights in the sight. Last year, people with bags in hand flocked under the trees, picking up their favorite fallen golden leaves to take home. I did the same.
I was gone the past couple of weeks on vacation, but knew when I came back, the trees would be glowing orange. The sight didn’t disappoint.
It won’t be long until the leaves drop. Only then, to me, will it be winter.
What are you favorite signs of fall? Submit your best photos to editor@juneauempire.com by 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11. We will choose our favorite and give the winner a $5 gift certificate to the Rookery Cafe. We will also feature the photos in a slideshow at juneauempire.com.
• Emily Russo Miller is the editor of the Juneau Empire.
