01-07-2015…..
The search continues with volunteers again finding small clues with the video camera and small pieces of organic material pulled from the riverbed. Even with the biting cold wind, rain and sleet coming down periodically, efforts have not waned. Tired faces and bodies trying everyday for the last 26 days is exhausting and still a fierce determination exists in the minds of everyone that show up.
More ice trenches are dug with chain saws and ice augers in new areas not already checked, widening the area of interest.
Sometimes the older volunteers will talk of frustration at the younger people that show up at the site. Who despite their youth, show more of an interest in the new technology then laboring to pull the ropes attached to the drag bars underneath. Still… no one is scolded, not a word is said to the kids who are bending their heads over the video monitor. They all know that if they scold or “nunuq” them, they might be hesitant to help again.
Photos from 01-01-15
Today ended with the usual prayer of thanksgiving and hope. Efforts will continue tomorrow as they have for the last 26 days. We all wish for other volunteers to come to the site and help with the efforts. The weather is expected to be wetter the next few days, so if you decide to come, please wear rain gear and warm clothing. And be careful when traveling as there is an open spot in the ice in the Kuskokwak slough above Wassilie Alexie’s camp. The rain and sleet will also cause very slick roads, so when rounding corners on the river, slow down….. and be extra cautious as many people will be traveling, visiting family and friends during the Slaviq celebration.
