Story49: Delbert Pungowiyi

Delbert Pungowiyi sits with a cup of coffee in the IRA office in Savoonga.

When Delbert Pungowiyi was a young man in Savoonga, they had “nine months of winter.” This year, ice barely reached the island. In this two-part series, Delbert shares his memories of growing up on St. Lawrence Island and how he became a fierce voice for his community in a time of great change.

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Listening to the Bering Sea

Bearded man stands in front of large map of Alaska

A new scientific study happening along Western Alaska’s coasts is all about listening — to the sounds of the sea, and to how those sounds are clues for long-term changes in the region. Your support brought to KNOM listeners the news of this fascinating undertaking.

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Winter Water Woes

A snowy landscape, distant snowy mountains, low-hanging fog, and a modern school complex in the middle-ground.

Recent months have brought a series of water infrastructure problems to rural Alaska villages, an example of the challenges frequently amplified by the isolation of KNOM country.

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Trust in God and Hope

Woman in white vest stands next to Alaska Native painting and shelves of vinyl records.

Vi Waghiyi has spent the last 15 years advocating for Alaska Native communities, expressing concerns about environmental pollution, especially in rural Alaska. Through your support, Vi’s fascinating story takes center stage in last month’s episode of KNOM’s “Story49.”

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