Back in the August archives somewhere, I wrote one of those ABC poems about "home" because I was bored one night and had nothing better to do. I've hinted around a bit about how small this place is, but haven't really elaborated so here are some tidbits about my hometown.
*I live on a small island in Southeast Alaska.
*This is an indian reserve. The only one in Alaska.
*The population is just short of 1,800.
*We have a mild climate with cool summer temperatures (usually 60-70) and warm winters (usually 30-50) and average about 150 inches of rain per year.
*This town was established on August 7, 1887. The founders moved from B.C. Canada to gain religious freedom.
*We have one grocery store.
*We have one hardware store.
*We have 2 clothing stores (One specializes in t-shirt transfers).
*We have 2 movie rental/snack stores.
*We have one gas station.
*We have one convenience store.
*We have 2 hamburger stands.
*We have one hotel/restaurant.
*We have 3 Bed & Breakfasts.
*We have one post office, no mail delivery.
*We do not have cell phone service, but they do on the next island.
*We do not have traffic lights. The speed limit is 20mph unless you are outside of the city limits, then you can drive as fast as 45mph.
*The island can only be reached via air or water.
*We have one school district that includes 3 buildings. An elementary, a Jr. High, and a highschool.
*We have one private school run by the Baptist church.
*Our town is governed by a mayor and 12 council members. All are elected.
*In order to own property, run for public office, or vote in the town elections, you must be a member of the community. If you are not a member, you need to have a work and resident permit to live here.
*To be a member, you must belong to the tribe, be approved by the council and be sworn in at an inauguration.
*There are many native dance groups. They perform at potlatches, for the tourists, and at other local events.
*At the moment, about 70% of us are unemployed.
*Up until about 4 years ago, most of our roads were unpaved. Now all roads within city limits are paved.
*We have one clinic and one dental clinic, but are often sent out of town for medical care.
I can't think of anything else anyone might find interesting. Feel free to ask questions if you want to. Hope this hasn't bored you to tears. I had nothing interesting to say so this is what you got. haha
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3 comments:
That is very interesting. The funniest bit to me, is how alike your community is to where I grew up (about 12 miles from where I now live). The only real difference is that my hometown is not on an island. A very small community and very conservative. No clothing stores, or hamburger joints. ;-)
About 13 years ago, a Mc D's went in near where I live NOW and we were all thrilled. Now, no big deal.
Have a great day!
Holy crap, SEVENTY percent unemployment?! That's outrageous!
Thanks for the stats--I think it's fascinating. And it's pretty much exactly what I guessed, based on our previous conversations.
So, what tribe do you belong to?
Jayleigh, McDonald's is still a big deal around here because we have to travel to get to it. McDonald's and Subway are the only fast food restaurants near here.
I think all small towns have a lot of similarities. The difference between yours and mine is mine will never grow beyond our current boundries and will always be isolated.
Aimee, 70% is outrageous. Sad thing is, that was a generous estimate. It's probably closer to 80% this time of year. The majority of our town was employed by the sawmill and cannery. The sawmill shut down and fishing has slowed way down so there are a lot of people unable to find work. We just opened a bottled water plant last year but the crew is still small as they are trying to find a profitable market before starting a 2nd shift.
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