In my letter last month, I shared how thankful I am for the wonderful people in my life – both personally and professionally. November is always a meaningful month for me because of my deep ties to the military. While I didn’t have the honor of serving myself, I’ve been a proud military wife for more than 25 years.
When I last wrote, we were still reeling from the effects of Typhoon Halong in Western Alaska, as well as the severe flooding that struck our neighbors to the north in Kotzebue just days earlier. Although Nome and our immediate area were spared the direct impact of Halong (unlike during Merbok in 2022) we still felt its reach. Western Alaska is a close-knit region; even when separated by hundreds of miles, we feel each other’s hardships.
Thanks to your support, KNOM was able to respond swiftly and provide vital information for our listeners across the region. In the days leading up to and during Halong, we aired 36 regularly scheduled weather updates, which included storm information, and an additional 12 emergency notices. We reached out to community officials to share evacuation updates and accurate forecasts. Twice a day, our news team created graphics with easy-to-understand updates from the National Weather Service.
At a time when social media was flooded with AI-generated images and misinformation, KNOM served as a trusted voice for truth and accuracy. Our team produced eight original and co-reported stories, ensuring that accurate information and authentic photos reached our communities. On social media alone, our coverage earned nearly one million impressions — meaning reliable information was seen and shared widely.
Your generosity made that possible. Your belief in KNOM ensures that even in times of uncertainty, our region has a source of hope, truth, and connection.
I am wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and peaceful holiday season, and I look forward to connecting again in the new year.
With gratitude,
Miranda
