As part of our ongoing series of interviews with the outstanding 49 Writers crew, Volunteer Coordinator Debbie Moderow catches up with Lorena Knapp – no small feat, since Lorena spends a good deal of her time up in the air.
Tell us about your day job, Lorena.
I am a helicopter pilot. The view from my corner office is incredible! Last week flying across the North Slope I saw nearly 8,000 caribou migrating.
Why did you decide to volunteer at the 49 Alaska Writing Center/Raven Place?
I am currently working on my first novel. As a beginning writer I think it is important to establish a network within the local writing community. At first I was a bit intimidated to get involved since I have only recently started focusing on my writing. Everyone has been extremely welcoming and volunteering at 49Writers has been a great way for me to connect with other writers.
What’s a highlight of your involvement so far?
I mostly volunteer updating the Calendar and Deadlines sidebars on the blog. I have also helped with the guesthouse. I have enjoyed becoming more proficient with blogger and html and but mostly I love feeling like I am contributing to and a part of the writing community in Alaska.
Tell us something about your own literary interests or activities.
I try to write between flights or while waiting for the weather to improve. In addition to writing, I love the outdoors and one of my favorite activities is orienteering with the Arctic Orienteering Club. I also love to travel and am planning a trip to Italy in the fall.
What’s the last great book you read?
Right now I am reading last book of the Stieg Larsson series.
When you picture a writing center ten years from now, what do you imagine?
I imagine a writing center that develops mentoring relationships amongst Alaskan writers. In Alaska we are geographically spread and writing can often be a lonely endeavor. I see the Writing Center using technology to bring people together across the state to connect and develop our talents as writers.
We can always use more help at 49 Writers. Our current needs include a blog ad coordinator, a membership coordinator, and volunteers to help with upcoming local events. If you’re interested in any of theses positions, or if you’d just like to add yourself to our bank of talented volunteer writers, email us at 49writers@gmail.com or fill out our volunteer form.