Lovin' Life and Findin' My Heart in Crown King

Here we are, finishing up the last week of the second round of AmeriCorps NCCC. Life in Crown King is cozy but exciting. We've established ourselves as a part of the fire department and this community.
It's been 7 weeks and this place feels more like home than where I grew up. I can walk down to the saloon on my own for breakfast and as soon as I walk in I've got company and conversation that will last my whole Sunday. Here in Crown King, talking about weather gets you talking about someone's day which turns into a chat about their life. I've shared so many laughs, tears, and sighs talking about what has led us to this place. Crown King attracts honest and genuine people that work with all they have and love with their whole heart. As soon as you cross over Magic Bridge into town, leave your judgment and labels on the side of the dirt road. They won't help you and can't make sense in a place like this.


We work hard all day and the people of this town never stop showing their appreciation. A typical day begins at 0745 with our squads preparing each of the department vehicles for service. I'm on Squad Charlie and we're assigned to the Command and Rescue unit. At 0815 we start the PT regimen that chief provided us with. By 0845 we brief with the whole crew about our assignments for the day and we're out there working by 0900. When we get to the work site we decide who will swamp for each sawyer and who will build piles, cut line, and burn the slash. Lunch is at 1200 and our squads are back at Station 1 by 1630 so we can close up the vehicles for the night. Around 1645 we debrief the day's tasks and discuss any issues that may have come up. When we're lucky dinner, is ready around 1800 and from there everyone has personal time.

It's rare not to smell like diesel and wood smoke, but I've come to love it. I get such a big smile on my face to watch the team file into or quarters for the night with soot all over their faces and singed hair on their face and head, our greens and yellows (our protective Nomex wear) covered in dirt and ash and our boots muddy and wet from the dirt and snow. Dinner conversation involves all of the silly comments made during the day and funny experiences. My account of the day usually involves how I got all the new cuts and bruises that cover my body. Sore and exhausted, even a 5 minute warm shower feels like heaven. After you get cleaned up it's time to go out for the night!


I'm greeted each evening at the saloon with bear hugs and kisses on the cheek. I spend my time playing pool and doing the two-step to old country songs. I am never lost for a sympathetic ear, strong shoulder, or friendly voice. I'm having the time of my life learning, working, and living in Crown King with these wonderful people. I hope every Corps Member can find a way into their community's heart and vice versa. The service we do is worthwhile, but the connection with the people is what will enrich your experience and life during AmeriCorps and after.

 This life is so good. I'm surrounded by a sense of purpose and accomplishment. If you're searching for love and meaning, I hope you can find somewhere like Crown King. It's all right here.

Lynser