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‘Dear Friend of KNOM…’ (End-of Year 2019)

When KNOM first signed on the air in 1971, the staff was all volunteer. The station was a proving ground for young broadcasters and future church leaders. Listeners were very forgiving as volunteers not only learned their craft, but also adjusted to the life and culture of the rural Arctic. Today, the radio staff is […]

2019 at KNOM: Year in Review

In a highlight from 2019, fans cheer for Pete Kaiser at the Iditarod finish line in Nome. January Alaska’s new governor, Mike Dunleavy, is inaugurated. The ceremony was intended to be held in Noorvik, the home village of First Lady Rose Dunleavy. Weather conditions prevent landing in the village, so the inaugural ceremony is held […]

From the GM’s Desk (End-of-Year 2019)

“The year is full of inspirational stories and moments of humble service. Hope is alive and thriving, lived out through vocational “fiats”, community encouragement, wellness, and spiritual nourishment. The KNOM star remains a constant reminder of this mission, radiant as a new year and a new decade dawn. Thank you for your openness to live […]

Financial Report 2019

Christmas decorations on a willow tree in Nome.

KNOM spent 9% less than budgeted in fiscal year (ending June 30) 2019. The reduction is largely due to vacancies of one full time position and three volunteer positions. If last year’s volunteers were paid regular wages, FY 19 expenses would be $81,588 higher (net, after benefits), and an additional $122,382 higher if the 3 […]

‘Dear Friend of KNOM…’ (December 2019)

“Babies bring blessings.” The beautiful chaos that ensues with the birth of a new babe bears witness to the grace of God infiltrating family. Grace and love not only grows, it multiplies. Jesus came to this world through family. He experienced the messiness and delight of everyday life while creating a conduit for humanity to […]

Native Fashion on Parade

A photo of a mother and daughter wearing qaspeqs.

Mother and daughter, Gwendalyn Trigg-Komakhuk and Kangisaq Payne Trigg, show off their ‘qaspeqs’ (also spelled as ‘kuspuk’). They are long hooded handmade shirts with pockets, at an indigenous fashion show and baby pageant held to celebrate Indigenous People’s Day at the Norton Sound Health Corporation (NSHC). Kangisaq won second place in the 1 to 3-year-old […]

Christmas on the Airwaves

A close-up picture of the Nativity set at St. Joseph Church in Nome.

One of KNOM’s most long-standing traditions is the annual Christmas Play. Decades ago, it was an opportunity for each of KNOM’s volunteer support nurses and doctors who weren’t usually on the airwaves to share in some radio fun. In recent years, the annual project has evolved to include as many voices from the greater community […]

‘Name That Tune’ Returns

A photo of Andrew McDonnell and Tom Busch in the studio.

‘Name That Tune’ is a half-hour long radio show featuring Alaska Native music. Listeners are encouraged to call with any information they may have about the recording. Where did it originate? Who composed it? How do you pronounce the name of the song? What story does it tell? Over the years, many of KNOM’s recordings […]