The Culture of the Bering Strait Region and the Community of Nome:

KICY serves the people of the Bering Strait Region and the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta, as well as the Russian Far East. Located in Northwest Alaska, just south of the Arctic Circle, the Bering Strait region is home to several culturally distinct groups of Alaska Natives. The Inupiaq reside on the Seward Peninsula and along the coast of Norton Sound, as well as on King and Diomede Islands. The Siberian Yup’ik live on St. Lawrence Island, and are closely related culturally and linguistically to the Chukotka people of the Russian Far East. Further south, the Yup’ik and Cup’ik people of the Yukon River/Kuskokwim River Delta are also a part of our listening audience. Each group is linguistically distinct, with customs and values that overlap. While English is the main language of the region, Alaska Natives in several villages still speak their native languages, and there is a renewed interest in reviving those among the younger generation. KICY broadcasts music recorded by Alaska Natives in English as well as the three main native languages of the region. Villages are close knit communities of 150-800, each with their own school, health clinic, and airstrip. All villages in Western Alaska, including Nome, are only accessible by air most of the year. Some are accessible by boat in the summer and snow mobile in the winter.

Located on the edge of the Bering Sea on the southwest side of the Seward Peninsula, Nome is a vital hub for Northwest Alaska. Nome was a seasonal home for the native people in the region for hundreds of years, but was established as a city when placer gold was discovered by The Three Lucky Swedes in Anvil Creek in 1898. In 1899 the population of Nome swelled from a handful to 28,000. Today the population is about 3,500 and there is still some gold mining happening.

The City of Nome attempts to balance its colorful Gold Rush history within the framework of 10,000 years of Inupiaq history. Most people in Nome, whether native or not, practice some sort of subsistence that underscores the vibrancy of the indigenous culture. Hunting for moose, caribou and musk ox, catching, drying and canning fish, and gathering berries and greens are just a few of the activities that keep most families busy all summer. Today the population in Nome is about 50% Alaska Native, and Inupiaq values continue to live in the people.

Community Amenities and Activities:

There are two general grocery/mercantile stores in Nome, as well as two hardware/building supply stores.  Recently, a small gardening project has been started out at Pilgrim Hot Springs about 60 miles from Nome. In the late summer, fresh produce is brought in and sold Farmer’s Market-style. Be prepared for sticker shock at all the stores. Prices can be anywhere from double to triple what you might pay in the Lower 48.  Nome has a post office, a credit union and a bank.  Nome has a number of restaurants to choose from: American, Asian, Italian, and even a Subway. The Carrie McLain Museum is an interesting place to explore Nome’s colorful gold rush history. The museum building also houses the Public Library and Katirvik Cultural Center. There are two gift shops to wander through.

There is plenty to do in Nome all year round. Fishing is generally good, with Trout, Arctic Char, Grayling, and Salmon available at various times. An Alaska State fishing license is required. There are plenty of places for hiking, camping, and picnics. The Seward Peninsula is well populated with brown bears/grizzlies, musk oxen, reindeer (domesticated herds) and moose. Birdwatchers from near and far come to Nome to spot unique birds that migrate through each spring and summer.  Nome’s golden sands are available for gold panning. There is the opportunity for canoeing and kayaking in local rivers and lake. Many people enjoy biking around town, and even out of town. In July and August there are lots of blueberries and salmonberries to pick from the tundra. Winter brings snow cover and the opportunity for cross country skiing. Nome also has an ice rink for skating and hockey, and a Recreation Center with weights, basketball, and handball, as well as a two lane bowling alley. The school has a swimming pool that is open to the public.

Click here for a direct link to the Nome, Alaska web site.