Snow and Slush

It was only last week that the temperatures were dipping below zero. Today we are up to almost 40 degrees. It is insanely warm! I admit that it feels great, but it does bring it's share of problems.

So far this year I think we rank in the top 10 snowiest years on record. Lucky us! We have gotten over 100 inches of snow this year. This means that the 4 feet piled up next to my house has got to go somewhere! Everyone says late April and May are the worst months here because of the break-up of all the snow and ice. I need to buy some break up boots, which basically means I need rain boots that come to my knees. I might just invest in some waiters.

One of KNOM's engineers came up from his home in Palmer, Alaska for a few days in March and I was fortunate enough to hang out with him and get an introduction to broadcast engineering. I have always enjoyed learning about the ins and outs of electronics. I am looking into broadcast engineering programs online. The FCC does not require certification any longer, so it is all about experience. So now all I would have to do is get the education, find a station to apply my new skills and practice!

I can see myself coming back to Nome, in the not too distant future. This is a place that really values community. It is something that is sacred, it has to be, since it is so isolated from the rest of the world. It will be hard to leave.

My next move in life? Well, I have been accepted into an AmeriCorps program called CTEP, Community Technology Empowerment Program. The paperwork is still underway, and when things are more official I will get back to you on my placement.

I am set to head out of Nome sometime in mid-June, when I will fly to North Carolina to attend weddings and see college friends. After that I will be Texas bound where I will be getting my wisdom teeth removed. How exciting right?

Back on track

There was a day when the temperature reached 33 above zero. The ice on the road melted and throughout the day it would snow then rain then snow again. I have to say it was peculiar to see rain again. After all, everything outside has been frozen for months.

Since January KNOM has been covering snowmachine and sled dog races, and now it is all coming to an end. Now, I can try to get back into a regular schedule writing educational spots on the government, fire safety, and even spots on flannel, Scrabble, and soon- Legos.

I officially told KNOM that I would not be returning for a second service year with the station. I have really loved my radio experience at this one-of-a-kind station, but I know it is time to move on and try something new.

As for what is next, well, your guess is as good as mine. I am looking to volunteer for another year, in a new state. My current thought is that I am going to be a professional volunteer with a Masters in the area by the time I am 25. That should bring in the money.

Nome’s great darkness has subsided, which is fantastic for my snowshoeing excursions. The sun rises sometime during the 7 am and sets around 10 pm. It is so weird to have all of this light after so much darkness.