Volunteer experience

2008-02-19 17:35:01.000 – Al Sukowaski,  Summit Volunteer

On the summit.

Well it has been a week of varied weather here on the summit. I’ve seen temperatures below 16 below with winds chills of 58 below, winds of 30 mph gusting up to 105 mph, visibility of 50 feet to over 120 miles and fog, snow and rain.

I braved 70 mph winds to shovel ice and snow off the tower and I hiked around the summit in relatively calm winds and enjoyed spectacular views of the valley below.

I cooked meals for the observers and staff along with an edutrip and kept the living quarters clean and tidy. I’ve also enjoyed the company of Marty the new Observatory mascot.

This is not much different from being home in Pennsylvania with my family but up here you never know what the weather will be like. If you are a member and have the opportunity to volunteer on the summit I highly recommend it. This is my second experience up here, the first time being in the fall, and let me tell you there is nothing that compares. For those of you who aren’t members, please consider joining and volunteering your time and talents.

Well, it’s time to head back to the kitchen and start getting supper ready. I know Steve will be looking for some cake tonight. Hope the cheesecake fairs well.

Al Sukowaski,  Summit Volunteer