Alaska Over-rated

Oct 1, 2011 | Welcome Column

Mrs. Slim and I just returned from a vacation in and around Anchorage, Alaska. Those folks have exaggerated some of their biggest selling points, to wit:

They claim to have the highest mountain, Mt. McKinley (aka Denali) in the U.S.A., but when you get there they readily admit that only 30% of visitors get to see it because of weather conditions. Hence, many cannot affirm it’s actual existence ! Near my place is the highest in the lower 48, Mt. Whitney, and we can show it to you !

When we checked into our hotel in Denali Park, we were told to put our name on a list to be called in the middle of the night if the Northern Lights became visible – we got a great night’s sleep ! Seems you can’t usually see them “that far south”.

And guess what – you can’t see Russia from there ! (or just about anyplace else in Alaska).

Seriously, we had a great time and saw some beautiful scenery and wildlife, visited a sled dog “ranch”, and caught up with some friends from around the country (we attended a Lions Clubs convention).

Bluegrass Content: A place where we had lunch in Denali, was playing ‘Old and In the Way” as background music. When I commented on it, the waitress said she had not heard of the Bearfoot Bluegrass band (from Alaska) ! They play whatever the employees bring in and we just got lucky.

Unfortunately, we won’t be at the Fall Campout. Charlene has a “milestone” class reunion that weekend. We’ll miss you and hope everybody has a good time.

Please remember to vote in the Board of Directors’ election.

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