Dutch Harbor Dirt

Deadliest Catch Boats 2011-2012, The Carl E Moses WORKING Harbor, Lots of Snow and The Hospitality Christmas Party

2011-12-31T13:33:00.009-09:00

OK, So it's been snowing for like 2 weeks without a break until today. This is a little unusual for Unalaska. It will snow, then rain and everything will melt, so the Fisherman coming back this year are due for a surprise, as they will have to shovel the boats out before they can even Start fishing. All this winter weather makes me think fondly of the Beautiful Summer we had, the day that it got to 78 degrees, lots of sun, wonderful Salmon berries and the like. Oh, and A visit from my FAVORITE US Senator, Lisa Murkowski!!

It really was not so long ago that the Senator was here and with our wonderful Mayor Shirley Marquardt Dedicated the Carl E Moses New Small Boat Harbor.

Katherine, Lisa and Shirley.......
So I took a little trip over there today to see how things are going............
Lot more white, Lots of boats
And Sorry DC fans I missed the Rambling Rose by a day being here, they headed out to fish for Cod Last night before Opolio Season starts on the 15th.
But I DID catch the SeaBrooke Tied Up down at the Unisea Docks.
Third out and lots of snow and Ice awaiting those guys!!
So, Like I said before, there has been pretty much just a constant snow for the past few weeks, only like a couple of inches a night, and it has been cold enough that the snow is light, but it still adds up to like 3 feet or so.

In just a week Since the photo bellow was taken there is much more on the Northwestern.

I guess the 2 Jake's are going to be having some fun Shoveling!!!

Meanwhile, out on the Spit Dock Hilarity Ensued..............
Remember last week when I posted this photo of the Rocky Point that sank while moored to the Pacific Knight?
Well today, In a move that can only be Called "Dutch Engineering" they attempted to move it Up? Out? Around? ??? with a backhoe and some chain.
Sorry, I really did not want to get too close and get cut in half if the Chain broke or the Backhoe went ass-over-teakettles into the drink. Just click on the pictures and zoom in if you want a closer look.
After about 30 minutes with the attempts proving more futile and dangerous than productive the endeavor was called off.
I mean really, you could actually see the Back end of the Backhoe lifting up off the ground and hear it slamming back down!

Finally, the Hospitality Christmas Party took place on Christmas night down at the Harbor View Bar.
It's like the one night of the year when enough people can be off from the hotel that we can all enjoy some time together.
And OF course the Infamous Gift Exchange, Full of Stealing presents once unwrapped, backstabbing, gag gifts and the like.

Like this one, where Darlene had to unwrap 12 boxes to finally get to the real gift inside!

And a nice Thank You along with the Bonus from Our General Manager Tom Enlow for the Hotel's biggest year ever! (Yeah, Ever!! We were that Busy! You might have notice how many fewer blog posts I did this year......that was why!)
And we are all ready for an even bigger year in 2012!!

Happy New Year Everyone!!

Deadliest Catch Boats on Christmas Day 2011, and the Unisea Christmas Party

2011-12-25T13:05:00.008-09:00

Merry Christmas From Unalaska and the International Port of Dutch Harbor!
Lori asked me to go Check on the Northwestern so the poor girl was not all lonely today.......She's fine, nice and snug at the dock.
You many have noticed, we have a bit of Snow.........it's been pretty much snow every day since Tuesday.........and we have a good couple of Inches on the Ground/
If it stays cold the boys are going to have to shovel before they can even get on board!

The winds have drifed a lot of the snow back out to the ocean and into gulleys and spots between buildings so it goes from barely a scattering on the ground to drifts of several feet, I almost got stuck pulling out from the NW dock to head to the spit dock.
And as usual it goes from nice calm blue skies to a snow squall in a matter of minutes.......life as usual on the Aleutian Islands.

Some boats out at the Spit dock did not handle the weather so well this time, and the Little boat always attached to the Pacific Knight is now underwater.
Looks like they got up the spill buoys and pads in time to stop the Oil from becomming a major problem.
But the trip was not entirely a tragedy, Saw some old DC boats out there as well, Like the Rollo Above
The Farwest Leader
And Way down on the floating dock I spotted the Amatuli, the "spotter" or "chaser" boat for the Deadliest Catch boats. Most shots you have seen these past few seasons from "outside" the main boats have been taken from here.

And It's just not Christmas without an Eagle in a snowstorm!!

Last week was the Unisea Christmas Party
Lots of amazing food, like this "Steamship" Roast
And my favorite Turkey
And Of course Desserts

All Prepared by Richard Bye the Executive Chef and his amazing Crew!

And Stranded at the Hotel was April from Akutan and Veronika!!
So they were my guests for the party. So Super Crowded upstairs so we ate in the Office with Alicia!
I cant believe she still has like 3 months to go before the Twins come!

Anyway, Have to go make some Gingerbread for the Party tonight so I'm Outta here
Merry Christmas
CB

Christmas Decorations, Moonlight Madness and The Unalaska City Party.......

2011-12-12T15:36:00.007-09:00

Sorry for the long wait since the last blog Post............I've been decorating
(Thanks To our Wonderful Mayor Shirley Marquardt for taking this shot!)

The Tree has 3 more strings of lights this year, more ornaments, silver icicles, and the new lighted presents under the tree.

The New lighted Garland and Candlesticks are accompanied by large metal sculptures of King Crab instead of Bows.

There is a new Santa Wreath Above the Door (Thanks to Darrel for the Donation)

And the Gift Shop donated some wonderful Russian Orthodox themed Sculptures and Bells to the Lobby Decorations.

The Nutcracker and Snowman globe are back again

And Even Cape Cheerful got a new tree!
The Gift Shop is all decked out,
And the Front Desk is also quite pretty.........

Say Hi to Alicia Everyone!! (I even snuck in a Nativity this year, Again, thanks Darrell!)

Some more shots of the Best Tree in 800 miles, which means it is the Best Tree on 1/24 of the Earth's Surface, Which has always been a goal of mine, to have one of the top 25 Trees on Earth.

Hey, I love Christmas!! I love Decorating! So did my dad. I think of him often as I am sweating up there on my 100th trip up the Ladder or Lift that day. I wish I had some of his ornaments or Tinsel Lights!!!

The Hotel is of Course the Center of all the Major Christmas Parties on the Island, From the Firefighters Ball, To the City Party, To Moonlight Madness, The Unisea Party, The OC party, Alaska Ship, OSI etc. Everything has to be done up!
A new Wreath for the second Floor Fireplace.
And Brand New This year............what I am calling my Rachel Zoe {As seen on Bravo and everyday on http://www.thezoereport.com/ ) "Gilver" (Gold and Silver) tree. Love Ya Rachel!

The Chartroom
With a great new Tree!

The Shishaldin Room (as decorated as the Kids Room For the City Party)

And Finally, the Makushin Room. where I went a little crazy and used the Hydraulic Lift to suspend Ornaments about 10 feet from the floor through the entire room. (24 moves and re-sets with the Hydraulic lift, slicing through fishing line with my teeth and trying to keep a pattern and the height right!) Lots learned this year so next year will be even Better!!

The High School Kids tuning up for the party.
And this is How it looked Saturday night. NO SNOW AT SEA LEVEL!! Darn it. We have some now, but would have loved to have it for the Party and Moonlight Madness!
Speaking of Moonlight Madness there were 19 tables this year...................
Like Rich and Jane Bye's Amazing photographs...........
Jewelry...........
Candles and Scented Oils
Dutch Harbor Asia store..............
AND my FAVORITE TABLE! Sharon and Larissa and the Hand Made Chocolates!!
Besides my All Time Favorite the Sea Salt Caramels there is a new love, the Peppermint patties!!

Yes, there is a reason these chocolates fetch more at Dutch Harbor/Unalaskan Auctions than King Crab...............they really are better than anything else.......................I wish you could taste them!!!

Well, Got to go do some more Elf stuff, See you all later!!!

Have a Great Day!

Derick Pictures.....London Day 2 and People, People, People. Do any of my UK viewers recgonize anyone?

2011-11-20T10:03:00.025-09:00

So, Pretty much every Day in Europe began like this. Once I rousted Derick out of bed we headed off to Breakfast at the Hotel. Thankfully Breakfast was included in with the cost of the Hotel............'cause the boy can eat!! And there is always room for Ice Cream!
So, as reported before Derick has switched his Major to "Photography". At first I was pretty skeptical about this, but I got to admit now, the Kid has a eye for this.
Little shots he took as we covered Europe that I would have never thought of really captured the "feel" of the city.
Like of all the Construction work going on in London in Advance of the Olympic games next summer.
Or of this wonderful little park right down from our Euston Square Hotel.

Wow! Even the squirrels in London could use a dentist.................

Of course he got alot of pictures of the surroundings, but it's in his shots of the people that we see and can get a feel for the tenor of the city.
This was a fun one.
M&M world in London. 4 Floors of M&M's!

City Hall
The Tower of London
and I think this is a GVT building too.
Some Exhibits at the Tate Modern http://www.tate.org.uk/modern/

Crossing Millenium Bridge in a shower to go to Saint Paul's

We were completely soaked by the time we got accross, but with some candy roasted nuts we bought on the way we soldiered on!
But, for all the Beautiful buildings and sights we saw I think Derick captured the feel of the cities best in his totally candid shots of the people we saw. At first I called it "creeping" because of all the shots he was taking without anyone knowing. But looking at the results I could not be happier!
Just put yourself in our place, Heck, for you UK viewers of the blog look for anyone you know, and just try to answer the questions we all have when we people watch:
What is he talking about?
What does that Text or e-mail say?
What's he eating?
Where is this person going?
What is he listening to on his earbuds?
What's she laughing about?
Where is he off too?
And although I do not Condone it, and strongly warn against it kids, does this girl not look cool?

What article is he reading?
What's he thinking?

And then we come to the creepy man dancing with a manequin. As many of you know Manequins, clowns, mimes, and those Oompa Loompa's from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory creep me out to the extreme. For this I blame My mother. One time when I was little she had a friend of the Family (I think it was Elane Benton or Tillie) take us to a Farmers Grange party and she came later wearing one of those blank masks with just like the eyes and lips painted on a plain white face. Scared the living hell out of me. I remember hiding under the tables trying to get away. Ever since then all those things have scared the crap out of me. Clowns and manequins especially. So of course Derick is the only one who got pictures of this horrifying display.

More candid shots.

Cool Headphones

HUMMMMM, think this Girl Caught you taking a picture Derick

Lots more photos to come!
Next up, Derick's PARIS!!

Derick's Pictures.....London First Day

2011-11-18T13:29:00.006-09:00

Ok, So we are Finally back in The USA and I'm already Back to work. Sorry for the long wait on these but for some reason my laptop is not accepting anything plugged into it's USB ports so it has taken a while to get pictures uploaded.

I promised you some shots that Derick took so I think I will go through them first.
Here are some from the first day in London

At Heathrow
The London Cabs
Sunrise as we rode in a taxi to the hotel

Our Hotel

Down at the National Gallery at Trafalger Square

Parliment and Big Ben

A new building named "The Spire", soon to be the tallest building in Europe
Do you recgonize this from some Harry Potter Movies?
And One more of the Hotel.
Much Much More to come!

Next Stop...............Amsterdam!

2011-11-08T07:11:00.006-09:00

Ok, I know you have all been concerned............but I FINALLY found some Mountain Dew In Europe, today in ..............AMSTERDAM!
We are going to be here for a few days, and traveling here took up a good portion of the first day, but here are some highlights!
The Departures Board at The Train Station in Paris
Waiting for the Train

On the Train, took about 3 hours to get to Amsterdam from Paris on The Thaylis Train.
It's Good I have someone to help with luggage.............what? You thought I brought him along cause I liked Him? Nope, He's Just a luggage carrier........
Our Hotel At RAI in Amsterdam. A little outside of the main city but really nice rooms, not cramped like places downtown can be.
The Boulvard in front of the hotel.......so nice to see the fall leaves.

Yeah, If they are not on the Metro, Tram or Bus people in Amsterdam on on their Bikes. You just really can not believe how many bikes there are................
Our First night in the city.........
Nothing Major, just walked around, had McDonalds and then Some Chinese.

More to come soon!

Paris

2011-11-07T19:10:00.000-09:00

Well, You may have guessed our next stop on the tour.....................PARIS!

And, Of course my favorite Cafe in all the World

http://www.cafedelapaix.fr/uk/navigation.htm

My Choice for lunch with Champagne? The Croque-Monsieur a Toasted ham and cheese sandwich Dipped in egg and grilled. Just Amazing

Derick had the

Salade César,

Tomatoes, poultry, rocket salad, hard-boiled egg, Parmesan cheese.

Yeah, A Caesar Salad.............But the best salad in the world, with the best Bread. Just Wonderful!

As the Cafe was just a short walk from the Hotel, and the weather was great, we Just kept Right on Going down the Avenue and ended up .....................
At the Louvre!

A very happy (and Full) boy who just shot like 500 pictures of Paris on our way here.....
And here is Me, standing in front of the Mona Lisa (not in the Picture) Calling my Mum and Veda telling them where I was.......Wow, I look tired!

Well, with the time change catching up to us we made a short night of it so we could get up early and go to.............
Notre Damehttp://www.notredamedeparis.fr/spip.php?rubrique2

Like the good little Catholic Boy I am I went right up the Aisle and sat down and said my prayers, inspired by this beautiful building.

And I lit three Candles, One for my Mum who was sick, One for my Grandmother who always had a special Connection to the Blessed Mother, and one for Veda's Hubby Tom. It seemed to help my Mum, so I hope it helps Tom too!

Next Up, the Luxemborg Gardens!

Then, It was time for Lunch! On our way over to the Eiffel Tower we saw this place with a line 6 deep outside in the street! We figured if the locals liked it that much it must be good! And it was! Best Sandwiches Around!
And Now for the Tormenting of Alicia.........yes, Derick has been drinking a lot of Orangina.
We Continued our walk.......

Look at that Gas station. That 1.75 Euro PER LITER! I'll never compalin about $4 gas again!

And soo, there before us was the Grand Lady of Paris! (I just love this picture, Don't know why, just really captures the essence of the Day I guess)

So, Derick Decides we need to to go the Top so he can call his mum from the Eiffel Tower.
Let's just say there was a line..................
..........A long Line.....................
...............A VERY LONG LINE!!! After about 1.5 hours we finally got to the ticket station just as they closed the Top because it was too Full, so we just went up to the middle and got these shots of Paris from Above.............

So, we pretty much walked half the city that day. We started out at the University in the AM (photos of that to come) then Notre Dame, the the Gardens then Lunch then Eiffel so it was time for a quick metro back to the hotel, to wash up for dinner. (photos of that to come too! Just wait till you see our dessert Drinks!)
I promise, Some of Derick's photos will be on here soon. He has them in "raw" form right now which means they are in a format that blogger can't post, But soon. You should see some of the ones from The British Museum and The Louvre!

Soon.

Have a great Day!

Junior and CB to the UK!

2011-11-02T16:38:00.000-08:00

So, it's that time of the year again, Though a bit delayed by The North Pacific Fisheries Management Council, and the start of the Deadliest Catch, it's My Fall Vacation!

A friend had to cancel out of a trip we were planning but luckily Junior was able to take her place!

Yes, It will be two weeks of Junior/Derick and me Traveling. Where to You ask? Well...........
....Does this give you a hint?
After traveling all day yesterday and arriving VERY early in the AM we checked in at the Hilton London Euston http://www.hilton.co.uk/euston?WT.srch=1
And After a good Hearty English Breakfast we were off to do some sightseeing!

The National Gallery, where, no photographs permitted of course, we saw Works by Michaelango, Van Goth, Monet and others too numerous to mention.
The National Gallery is located right by Trafalgar Square
And in the Heart of London, which is seeing an enormous Building boom due to the Olympics coming up in just......268 days according to the monument.

Then we hopped on the http://www.theoriginaltour.com/ where CB cunningly purchased tickets before we got there and got us two days of being driven around for the price of one!
From just two blocks from our hotel to Parliment and Big Ben,

To the Thames River Cruise, (remember I dropped some Unalaskan Sea Glass here last time)
To the London Eye

The Tate Modern,
A New Building nicknamed "The Shard" which will be the tallest in Europe when Complete next year,
To Tower Bridge and
The Tower of London, the Original Tour Bus will take use there!
Now, You might have noticed Junior taking a lot of photos in the previous pictures, Well that's cause he changed his Major at college to Photography, and this trip is proving to be inspirational, He shot some 1200 photos today. I'll share some in later posts once he finished transferring them.
So after a busy day we went back to the hotel and Crashed, only getting up about 10pm to go get some food and check on Kings Cross Station and St Pancreas for the next leg of our journey. Back at London sightseeing tomorrow, but for now bed!

Have a Great Day everyone!

Deadliest Catch Boats at Dock Oct 2011, Roger and BJ, Rainbows, Elections, CNN, Comedians, Salmon, A Wedding, More trips with workers and the NW! Whew

2011-10-17T14:21:00.002-08:00

Roger and BJ got Delayed by Pen Air before going to see Kay so Roger wanted me to snap a quick one of him for his mum. They were very sad Kay!

Yup, the DC boats are in. You can tell how busy this summer and fall have been by the tired vacant look in my eyes. Still, Many thanks for Miss Veda for snapping this photo and for taking us around for pictures for her relatives in the UK. The Time Bandit's Paint Job has faded a bit from last year but still looks good. (Hope Josh from the CM enjoys his time on there this year.)

As always the Northwestern is a proud regal Lady.

I swear she was even moving away form the bird dropping on the dock.

Maybe Sig will even Let Jake Harris pilot during his time on the NW.
As shown a few posts ago the Ramblin Rose's new paint job really makes the boat look great,
And Eliott is still Captain and was large and in Charge when we stopped by.

And it looks like Keith on the Wizard is Loaded all up and ready to go for a very short season this year. Crab Quotas are down 30% for Red King Which is one of the reasons the Seabrooke is up going after Saint Matthews Blue King Crab right now.

It's been a Rainbow heavy fall so far with just about every day bringing a fresh one!

The elections were held the other week and a large amount of Absentee ballots had to be counted before the election could officially be called. In a VERY close Race Zoya Johnson beat out Katherine McGlashan by a few percentace points.

Amd then CNN happened and did a Hit piece on the Akutan Airport.

Yeah, his implied live shot was from the Hotel's Back deck.

Another Visitor to the Island was the Comedian Andre Covington.
Took him out to the spit dock, got a picture for him with the NW and

Up on Ulakta head. (Turns out he is a bit afraid of heights).....LOL

And he even got to see the Salmon Spawning!

Amd he gave a great show at the Harbor View Inn.
Then Denice had her LONG AWAITED wedding to Randy!

The Housekeeping staff Like Annelise above and the
Food and Beverage Manager Lisa K Transformed Margaret Bay Cafe.........
Into a beautiful Reception hall!

Of Course I love Denice so Much it was no bother at all!!!

And Her just Perfect Mum AB!
And the Happy Couple!

More Rainbows!!!

And Finally at the Beginning of the North Pacific Fisheries Manangment Council Meetings we had to make some Temporary housing available at the Newly Aquired Amaknak Camp, so Me and a team of workers from Production spent all day getting 7 rooms ready and clean, rescued from Dire Circumstances. They Deserved a treat after that, and some fresh air so up Ulakta head we went!

Amd Finally, the Northwestern, about a month ago, before the Madness of the Council, The Deadliest Catch folks and all the rest. Peaceful.

Just one week till I leave on vacation. I hope to do another post before then!

Where in the world will I be going this time?

Just wait and see!

Deadliest Catch Boats at Dock, The F/V Northwestern and Rambling Rose, Walks, US Citizenship, Visitors, And Flowers.

2011-09-08T09:20:00.003-08:00

So, its been a busy few weeks, full hotel, weather turning cold and rainy but it has finally given me the chance to post some more pictures from past weeks.....Like the Northwestern which is now docked out at the Spit Dock. I believe they and the Rambling Rose have been out fishing for cod, but that is just a guess, don't quote me on it!
Still, the Girl looks lonely, so For all you Northwestern Fans out there I will make sure to go visit her from time to time until the guys get here in October for Crab.

An US Army Boat is also out there, The Malvern Hill. I have no clue what they are doing here.
And A drilling Platform is also docked out near the Stimson

And the Rambling Rose can not be called "The Rusty Rose" anymore! Trident who owns the boat sunk some serious money into her for repainting and lots of other repairs.
Looking a lot better than it did last year at this time.

It's Been a beautiful Summers up Unalaska way................ and The Carl E. Moses Boat Harbor is looking better and Better each day! Especially during walks with Shadow!

In other News our resident "Flappy Head" (A South Park reference to Canadians) has now become a United States Citizen. Congratulations to Kasium!!

The Swearing In ceremony for Kasium and the 12 other New Citizens

Kas, Rocking the 70's look

And Hob Nobbing with our local celebs like our wonderful Mayor. Ahhh The privileges of Citizenship.......
The Mornings are getting a bit cooler, but the sunrises almost make it worth it.

We have had MANY visitors in town this past month, Including these guests of our Parent Company Nissui visiting for a plant tour and some fishing from Japan.
And Many of the Elderhostel, some seen leaving here on the Ferry on Saturday.
And Finally, My Flower Garden is about at it's peak

All I can say is I LOVE MIRACLE GROW!!!!

Taking this Barren Wasteland

And turning it into this? Yup, it's a miracle alright. I mean, I have a green Thumb from my dad, but I would have never gotten these results if not for the new soil and the weekly fertilizer treatments, and the nice amount of sun we had this year.

The Foxglove is really one of my favorites

And the Dasies are nice too.

I hope I can get these results (or Better) next year!

Have a great Day!

Alaskan United States Senator Lisa Murkowski visits Unalaska and the Port Of Dutch Harbor, and proves to be one of the nicest people around!

2011-08-27T12:53:00.000-08:00

The Dedication Ceremony for the New Carl E. Moses Small Boat Harbor was held on August 24 .........
And our Amazing Senator was able to join us!
Lisa Murkowski arriving at the Airport. NOTICE THAT SHE FLIES COMMERCIAL UNLIKE A FEW SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES I COULD NAME!!!!!!!! (Nancy Pelosi (D) Harry Reid (D) Barney Frank (D))
After a Brief rainstorm in the morning the sun had come out and it had warmed up by the time she got here so she got to see the island in it's full green glory.
A Warm and genuine hug for our Mayor, Shirley Marquardt and Chris Hladick the City Manager
And a shot or two with one of her biggest fans, CB!

There was a full day of events planned so after a quick lunch at the airport it was off to the School then the Northern Waters Task Force Meeting, where she spoke to a packed audience.

And Now, Just for Kay, A quick interlude with Roger and BJ!
The Ceremony provided another opportunity to have some of the Housekeeping staff out and about so joining me at the dock were
....From the left, Jon, New Hire Hunter, Maria, My wonderful assistant Veronica and Michael.
Just one portion of the Harbor......
The Rest you can see under construction still behind one of my Favorite people AB!
Lisa has a lot of fans on the Island, Young and old alike, because of all the good work she has done over the years representing us in the halls of Congress.
She is just so kind and gracious to everyone she meets.

Our Great Mayor Shirley and City Manager Chris introduced Lisa and the Coast Guard admirals that accompanied her for the dedication.
Some of my favorite people were there, From My Housekeeping Staff to to Zoya, the Winters and Elizabeth.

And the Sun coorporated for a few Really good Photos of our Senator!

Lisa and Shirley with the Harbor behind them.
Chris the City Manager trying to thank all the people involved in this 16 year project that is now nearing Completion.

Click on the small square to see the Video of the Actual "Christining"

Heading on down to check out some of the Boats docked at this Float for the first time.
Unisea provided several ships including the AllSea and the little Harbor Boat all decorated for the occassion.
Zoya, the Winters and Katherine!
Zoya can't complain about her eyes being closed in this picture!

I really just love this photo of Lisa and Shirley with Pyramid Peak in the Background
And it only gets better when the fabulous Katherine Joins them.
And Vicki too!
Construction on the Harbor Continued even during the ceremony. Have to take advantage of the good weather and sunlight while we have them!

Alvin, The Ports Director
The Winters and Vicki Peck with Lisa

The Rankins and Lisa

A shot for the Unisea Smiles Wall!
A bunch of fishermen talking to Lisa about the current struggle to find some Pollock.

Alyssa from the CVB presents Lisa with an Unalskan Jacket

This one is for New Hire Hunter's Family. Walking right with the Mayor and Lisa. Pretty cool for a kid who came here to process fish.
A Unisea Trio with Lisa! Donna, Eric and Michelle.

Don and Chirs With Lisa
And the Young Lady who is always behind the Camera Pippa!

Yup, Hunter did a Cutoff in front of a US Senator.

Don, Lisa Dennis and Shirley

and Finally, City Council Member Dennis Robinson with Lisa.

A great event for the community and Many thanks to Lisa for Joining us!

Have a Great Day Everyone!

Senator Lisa Murkowski Dedicates theCarl E Moses Small Boat Harbor In Unalaska

2011-08-26T08:59:00.002-08:00

True Summer arrives in Dutch Harbor, Fish Frys, Pampered Chef, And Housekeepers picking salmonberries. (and A shot or two of Shadow as well)

2011-08-13T14:45:00.001-08:00

First of ALL, Summer, REAL SUMMER has finally come to Unalaska and the Port Of Dutch Harbor. Temperatures in the 70's and POSSIBLY an 80 the other day. This is possibly due to the Island being very happy with us, or Our Friend Diane Green Visiting us from Texas and Bringing all the heat with her. Either way it has been one of the best weeks "weather Wise" That I have ever experienced in Unalaska, and Timed just right with the Salmon Berries turning ripe.
I even Got to take the Housekeepers out after work one day. (More on that Later but here is a shot of them)

Thanks To the quick actions of Public Safety and the Fire Department a real tragedy was averted when some IDIOT threw "Seal Bombs" (Think about 3X as powerful as an M-80 firecracker) Into the spare nets at the end of the Spit Dock.

It was looking pretty bad there for a bit but they soon had it under control. Way to Go Guys and Gals!

Shadow at the Spit the Next day, running through the flowers and Grass that could have been lost due to idiocy!
My First Salmon Berry of the Year
And Shadow with his first Jerky stick for the first part of the walk....

Alexander, ALL Grown Up

What happens when Darrel forgets to mail a package when Brian Asks him to for FIVE DAYS IN A ROW.

Miss Zoya at the Senior Fish Fry (Just missed one where she was all covered in Batter!!)
A Pampered Chef Party with Janie, Vicky, Roxie and the rest

And the Transformation of my little Garden, From this
To this
To this. More pictures coming when the Foxwoods bloom
And now on to the Salmon Berry Picking!
The Housekeeping Crew all geared up to go

Group shots:Veronica, Fiheha, Anastacia, Leroy, Maria, Genet, Vitalina, Ardis, Lydia and Diane

Prizes for the Winners guys! Most Berries/First to fill Basket and Biggest Berries! Go to it!
Way down in Brian's Secret Spot
The Berry Bushes are much taller than them!!
Lost in the Berries
Leroy and Fiseha took to the High Ground

And Fiseha Filled his Basket First! $25 Gift Card to Safeway!

Full buckets for the long Trip Down
Lydia wins for the Biggest Berry!

Then, It was too nice to go home so we went by the Waterfall
And Hammed it up a bit before the drive back.

If This next week is even half as nice it will be a miracle!

Have A Great Day Everyone!

Walks with Shadow

2011-07-23T14:32:00.000-08:00

So, A lot of my time in the evenings has been taken up with walking Shadow.
He's like the sweetest craziest dog around so every moment is worth it
However he DOES have a few quirks..................
His rather obsessive war with the local ground squirrel population is often a distraction that leads to many, many, many trips to the streams and outlets for baths to wash off the dirt from all that digging.

He sometimes abandons me in persuit of his obsession.......Try to find him in the above photo
He also has a rather entitled treat complex. He needs a treat after doing good things, like jumping in the stream at Summer Bay to rince off, and even when the treat is under water he will do anything to get it.
Including just putting his eyes and nose underwater but arching his back and keeping his ears out of the water.........It's just too cute for words.

He also feels he needs to inspect everything, like the New Carl E Moses Boat Harbor.
So trips up Bunker Hill become inspection details, and of course carrying on the war against the squirrels..........

Stalking the Enemy.............
..............and inspecting the Harbor.

He barked out orders a few times, hopefuly they heed his warnings

The Trail to the Top

Shadow, figuring out how much tax is being lost by boats delivering to the Boat Processors instead of the Onshore ones. And Don't even get him started on PILT!
He was rather upset that there are no Doggie steps to the Top of the Bunker, and Plans on petitioning City Council about this Clear Case of Doggie Discrimination.

This was Going to be a Glamor shot but squirrels were calling him out so he ran after them in a flash!

The Lone warrior in this fight against the Evil Ground squirrels and birds takes a short break in the sun.........
.........Then it is back to work.
His war carried us from the Spit Dock, To Bunker Hill to Summer Bay and ever to Overland Pass
(Which is amazing right now with all the wildflowers blooming BTW)

Yup, his head is several feet into a ground squirrel Den
And yes, he always checks the "Bolt Hole" too

Here's Another "Where's Shadow?"
But finally the walk ends, usually wet, a bit smelly.............
.................and always with a Treat! I'm going to miss taking this boy out all the time when Shirley gets back to town!!
Have a great Day everyone!

Quick Seattle trip for Fourth of July WIth Joann, Austin, Katherine, Kiefer, Kaniesha,Carter And Derick!

2011-07-09T08:57:00.020-08:00

SOOOO, Sorry I have been absence. Took a quick trip down to Seattle over the 4th of July. Katherine and Crew were also going and happened to be on the same flight and staying at the Same hotel so we all fell in together for a few days of Fun. Also Flew out my Sister and Nephew for the week.
Pricelined and Flirted my way to an Upgrade vehicle! Thanks Brandon!!!
AHHHH, Even in Seattle they are starting to see the light!
Down on the Waterfront
Pigging out at Red Robin
Joann and Austin
And while waiting at the Ferry Dock Katherine's oldest Keifer joined us!
The Big Pig BBQ truck as seen on the Food Network
I have NEVER seen Seattle as gorgeous as it was for our trip. Not a drop of rain, no fog and highs in the 70's to 80's! Wonderful when we went down to the Seattle Fisherman's Memorial
Katherine's sister
And Captain Phil.

Off to see the Movie Green Lantern!
Also Hooked up with Derick which filled up the last seats in the car!
In Bremerton WA we went on a Ghost Hunt on the USS Turner Joy http://spookedinseattle.com/tours/ghost-hunts/uss-turner-joy-haunted-ship-ghost-hunt

The Dutch Harbor Gang (Better watch out, little Carter is Dangerous!)

Nothing really jumped out at us or anything, but it was still a cool fun experience.

Of course there were these Unexplained hickey like marks that Keifer had that we never got an explanation for so maybe there is something Paranormal going on,

Sitting down for an EVP Session

As to other weird and wonderful places..............
While Kat and crew went to a Mariners game Joann, Austin and I headed to IKEA
But we all got back together for Outback that night
And Shopping the Next Day
Yes Carter, You ordered the "Tour Of Italy" Platter and you have to eat it all!!!
And At Olive Garden we celebrated Katherine's Birthday for like the 3ed time in as many days

We were also annoyed terribly by this rude man at the next table who talked so loud and so incessentaly that at one point I had to be physically restrained from telling him to SHUT UP!

Evidently he is out of work and is looking for a Job. But he is "too Good" for fast food or Wal-Mart and instead is trying for Target or Petsmart. Just a warning if you are in the Seattle Area and looking to hire new employees.......

Then it was down to the Space Needle for a walk around before the Fireworks.

ans some playing around on the Statuary

Derick LOves Whales!

Sitting Around waiting for the Fireworks to begin (Video will be up soon)

Dropping Joann and Austin off at the Airport

And A final Night out with Derick and his new Gal Pal Aly. She is really sweet and nice and can keep him in line!!

So great BUSY Exausting but theraputic Vacation!

Have a Great Day Everyone!

Runs with Shadow! The Spit Dock, Sitka Spruce park, the Crab Pot yard, Overland Pass and Summer Bay

2011-06-28T08:59:00.007-08:00

So the Runs with Shadow Continue!
Out on the Spit Dock
Chasing birds
Getting Soaking wet running through dewy grass
And Smelling the Lupins

Over at Sitka Spruce Plantation playing amoung the few trees on the island,
And going for a swim in the pond

Playing among the Empty Crab pots, taking their summer vacation in the Sun and among the flowers before being called into service once again this fall

Up Overland pass, near the waterfalls
Where Ground Squirrels are everywhere much to Shadow's Delight!
Ok, this was SUPPOSED to be a cool picture with Shadow sitting there with the Bay in the Background but those Darn Squirrels would not stop taunting him so he had to go and punish them..........

And down at Summer Bay he just had to check out the tide pools, which led to a seweed smelling dog.....

Until we got the the freshwater outlet and he swam and played with kiddies and Another Puppy for a good rince off of the Saltwater

And FInally last afternoon/evening walk up on strawberry Hill.
A tired puppy is a good puppy!
Have a Great Day Everyone!
CB

Tsunami Warning, Shadow and The Mayor

2011-06-24T09:21:00.010-08:00

So, A 6.5 Magnitude Quake off the Fox Islands triggered the Tsunami Warning system yesterday
http://www.aeic.alaska.edu/recent/sub/index.html
Most people on the island felt the Quake, (Except for Veda who refused to believe Tom and I until the Sirens sounded). I happened to be at the Airport Seeing off Mayor Shirley Marquardt and her son Rex on the 7:30 Flight. The Person watching their house on vacation could not do it last night so I Needed to take care of their dog Shadow for the night. Well the Earthquake happened and then Shirley and Rex got on the plane and I drove to her house to Take Shadow for a good Run. Once I got the Dog in the truck we were headed up Strawberry Hill and Shirley Calls saying that there was going to be a Tsunami warning in like 10 minutes with the Sirens going off. I race Down off the Hill to the Hotel, Set off the General Alarm and with the Other Managers, Unisea Security and the UPD Evacuate the Hotel. I actually had to stand there with my finger on the button to keep the alarm going. Then I grabbed a case of water and headed up Strawberry Hill With the Dog so if anything did happen he would be more comfortable close to his house.

Shadow when I picked him up

Scouring the hills for nasty things to put in his mouth while I kept an eye on the Horizon

Fellow Evacuees (Sp?)

And then FINALLY the All Clear was sounded and we headed back home.

And here are some shots from His morning walk around the Hotel

A Cute Glamor shot of Him and Lupins
And A Mid Morning Run on the Beach.

So Shirley, The Island is fine and So is Shadow. He did not even make a mess in the house overnight.

The OC Banquet, Ulakta Head and a little bit of gardening

2011-06-07T17:41:00.002-08:00

So, On Saturday the Biggest and best event of the year occurred, The 38th Annual Shareholders Dinner of the Ounalashka Corporation.

Executive Chef Richard Bye and his Crew worked insane hours to pull off this enormous feast, The biggest on the island all year, and once again it was an enormous success!
The Food when on for days.........

Not to Mention the Desserts! Especially the chocolate bread pudding with Carmel Sauce!!
One of my Favorite ladies on the island AB Rankin started off the festivities
And Father Andrew led us all in Prayer

With over 400 people there the line stretched all the way around the Big Gym at the School

Larissa and her BF!

Margaret shows off another Grandbaby!

Frank Kelty Sings Happy Birthday to Nick Lekanoff Sr for his 86th birthday!

A gathering of some of my favorite ladies on the island. From the Left Denise Rankin, Tonya Miller, Wendy Hawthorne, Gert Svarny and Sharon Svarny-Livingston. Gert and her family always have a special place in my heart. They were some of the first to really welcome me to this island, and have always treated me with kindness and love. Gert Reminds me so much of my Grandmother Helen Gahr that I thought I'd put up a picture of her. They both have that same easy warmth and special laugh that just makes everyday go a little bit better.

And Congratulation to Gert and her Husband Sam for their 61st Anniversary!

AB presents Diane Fejes with an OC Jacket.She is retiring from KPMG after 30 years as a tax accountant for the Corp.

And the McCracken Brothers and their Dad Andy Show off their "Fiddling" Skills!
And this one is just for the Kids at the School, The Supertendant with his mouth Full of Cake.

And to Close us out "Father" And "Mother" from the Russian Orthodox Church.
With So many of my favorite people in one place, and Such good Food you never want the night to end!

Still though, other things do go on here.............like this group of kyakers preparing to make the voyage to Akutan...........Humm, Should probably check in with April to see if they made it.
And though you would not know it unless you were here the island is getting greener every day.
Still it was a bit browner last week when Kyle and I went to Ulakta head.

Had to include this one because my sister freaks out every time I climb out on this outcrop from the Bunker up there. It really is the perfect place to have a Mountain Dew!
It's only like a 1000 foot drop................nothing to be scared over

I even got Scardy cat Kyle out on a Bunker

It's all worth it for the views!!!

And Finally, it was time for CB to Do a Bit of Gardening when the plants came in over at Alaska Ship.
So from this and.........
.......This.......
All it took was like 5 bags of soil and about 100 plants

To Transform both sides of the Port De Chalet into something presentable.

I'll keep you updated on their progress.

Have a great day Everyone!

Memorial Day 2011 In Unalaska

2011-05-30T14:42:00.006-08:00

Memorial Day 2011 is a cold and blustery one in Unalaska, But that never stops this town from coming out in Remembrance on this Holiday.
Brian Rankin sports his dress Uniform while his mum AB and daughter join the crowd.
About 100 people joined together, standing near the beachfront on this remote island, one of the furthest extensions of the United States to remember those who gave all so that we could be here today.
The US Coast Guard MSD Unalaska raised the Colors,
While Scout Troop 561 Raised the Service flags.

Mayor Shirley Marquardt began the program with introducing some of the Religious leaders of Unalaska Including
Father Andrew of the Holy Ascension Orthodox Cathedral,
Frank Kelty of Saint Christoper by the Sea Catholic Church,
And Roger Rowland of the Aleutian Bible Church.
Emil Berikoff of the Unalaska Native Fisherman's Association read a Fisherman's Poem while the Scout Troop Presented a wreath to the Fisherman's Memorial.
Lt. Mark Labert of the USCG presented a History of the Bering Sea Patrol before presenting a wreath to the Coast Guard Memorial

And Sam Svarny, WWII Veteran, with the Scouts presented a Wreath to the World War II Memorial. Also the Names of the Unangan Survivors of World War II were read off, which always brings tears to my eyes.

A 21 Gun Salute is provided by the Unalaska Department of Public Safety

Samuel Winters and Aiden Sandel Provided a stiring rendition of Taps.

ally Mayor Marquardt gave closing remarks on this ceremony where there was not a dry eye in the Crowd

And Finally a shot of the Wreaths against the Memorials.

So On this Day of BBQ's and Shopping Sales lets all take time and remember those for who this day was made:

It is the Soldier, not the minister
Who has given us freedom of religion.

It is The Soldier, not the reporter,
Who has given us Freedom of the press.

It is The Soldier, not the poet,
Who has given us Freedom of speech.

It is The Soldier, not the campus organizer,
Who has given us Freedom to demonstrate.

It is The Soldier, not the lawyer,
Who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the Soldier, not the politician
Who has given us the right to vote.

It is The Soldier who salutes the flag,
Who serves beneath the flag and
Whose coffin is draped by the flag
Who allows the protester to burn the flag.

Unalaska Prom and Graduation 2011!!!!

2011-05-22T16:45:00.002-08:00

Ok, As everyone on the island knows, May is the craziest month of the year for all of us who actually live here. From City events, to open houses, to Clean Up Week, to Prom, to Graduation, to Memorial Day it does not seem like there are enough Hours in the day to get everything done, and that's with it starting to be light out until Midnight! So, Sorry for no blog updates, but I an the rest of the island have been busy! I'm going to be going backwards here so bare with me.....

First off, The All Night Senior Graduation Party was held this year at the Grand Aleutian. Surprisingly the secret was kept and they did not know what to expect till they got here.
And Neither will you. This is a Secret Party and No one but the attendees gets to know about it, lest it be spoiled by Sophomores or Freshmen knowing about it.
The Kids all Gathered in the Lobby awaiting their all night bash.
Ok, Maybe One little Hint..................And Congratulations to Gina and Nancy and the rest of the Senior Parents for pulling it off!!!
Same as last year the ceremony was held in the Big Gym at the High School.
There was so much going on and so much to talk about I think I am just going to be very short and sweet in my comments
Graduate Daisy
Graduate Cassidy
James and Cass
Noah (Valedictorian) and Kim (Salutatorian)
Alyshia and Zac
Ben
Ben and Tau
Eric
Eric and Meda
Timo and Liz
John and Jonah

John Conwell, Superintendent of Schools
Kim Balbarino
Noah Betzen

Noah's Proud Mum And Dad
Eric Do

Susan Lynch, who as a guest speaker still managed to work dog poo into the speech.....

Terri La Grand
Reid started the scholarships

Yudelaka, more scholarships
Aleutian Arts Council Scholarship
Unisea Scholarships with Michelle

Bethany with National Honors Society Scholarships

Phil-Am Scholarships
Ballhoo Lions Scholarships

More School Scholarships
Art Club Scholarships

Safeway Scholarships
The Mayor with City and Delta Western Scholarships

Terri With MORE Scholarships
Last year over $160,000 was handed out. This years totals are not in yet but might be greater.
Noah got the most though.
And in another tradation the Graduates Pass out flowers to those who mean the most to them.
Like Mums and Dads

Sisters

Friends
And in Cass's Case even to pesky little Brothers!

ANd Of Course Mum And Dad.
So that was all Last night. What Was up the week before that? It was PROM!!!
Dylls and Natalie (Who also helped me with decorating)

Bethany was in Charge of the Prom Committee this year and Deserves special recgonization for all her hard work and Dedication! It was Fabulous!

It was an Under the Sea Theme and it turned out amazing!

But of Course it took a lot to get it there. We started the Day Before, me with a crazy plan to Make Balloon Seahorses at the entrance.
Well, From a distance they look like them, and I learned a lot for next year!

And the rest of the Hallway my helpers and I did looks great!

With the Lights all on

The Late Night Light helps out with keeping us going decorating until late. Here is 7pm
Of Course when you start with a bare gym there is a lot of work to do!

My Little Helpers!!! Actually they were all Fabulous, Smart Amazing and Beautiful young women!

Pizza Break! (Notice on the Table, I brought a 36 pack of Mountain Dew to keep the kids Energized!)
8Pm it was actually lighter

Yup, we were blowing and tying up balloons for hours.

With only Brief stops to try on Crowns and Tiarras

9pm a hint of sunshine came through

And Even at 11 there is still a hint of Blue in the sky.
Congratulations to all the Graduates, Prom Attendees and Scholarship winners!
Have a great Day everyone!

Career Fair, Russian Church and the first time the USCGC Bertholf (WMSL-750) visits Dutch Harbor!

2011-05-07T22:44:00.001-08:00

Ok Folks so, I've been Busy, but Just wanted to Catch you up on a few events on the Island.
First, although I may be cursing myself later for tempting fate, it looks like winter is finally over!
And With the beginning of our all too short spring/summer it's time for May Madness, when more events are seemingly held than at any other time of the Year. This week was Career Fair, Next week Prom and the following week the Senior Party and graduation.
As usual the Police, Fire Department and the Military we all big hits with the students.
But of Course one of my favorite people on the Island was there, Zoya from the Museum.
Who always says I never take a good picture of her. So here are three to choose from.
Of course, personally I think it's impossible to take a bad picture of the beautiful Zoya, who by the way is just back from her run in the Annual Paris Marathon.

The Students of course had lots of fun, especially eating all the treats at the Hospitality station.
And is that Manderzz over there chatting with the Marines? The Enemies of America best Beware!!

Like I Said Spring has Sprung and the Eagles are already out and starting to get territorial over nesting sites. Pretty soon it will be time to put up the Eagle Warning signs at the Post Office and Clinic.

And in Nautical News the USCGC Bertholf made it's first trip to Unalaska.

USCGC Bertholf (WMSL 750) is the first Legend-class maritime security cutter of the United States Coast Guard.

It is named for Ellsworth P. Bertholf, fourth Commandant of both the Revenue Cutter Service and Coast Guard.

In 2005, construction began at Northrop Grumman's Ship Systems Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi. She was launched on September 29, 2006,christened November 11, 2006,and commissioned on August 4, 2008. The vessel's home port is Alameda, California. Bertholf was the first to fire the Bofors 57 mm gun aboard a U.S. vessel on the 11th of February 2008 by Electronics Technician First Class Matthew Magaro

The Bertholf is the lead ship of the National Security Cutter design and the first large ship to be built under the Coast Guard's multi-year Deepwater acquisitions project. The NSCs are to replace the fleet's aging 378-foot Hamilton-class cutters.

The Bertholf's Features Include
Automated weapon systems
Medium-caliber deck gun (57 mm) capable of stopping rogue merchant vessels far from shore
Helicopter launch and recovery pad with rail-based aircraft retrieval system and two aircraft hangars
Stern boat well for small boat launch and recovery
bow thruster
State-of-the-art C4ISR improving interoperability between Coast Guard and DoD
Detection and defense capabilities against chemical, biological, or radiological attack
Advanced sensors for intelligence collection and sharing
Real-time tracking and seamless Common Operational Picture/Maritime Domain Awareness via integration with Rescue 21
Advanced state-of-the-art Ships Integrated Control System (Machinery Control, Steering, Navigation) for reduced manpower requirements and improved automation
Cassidian (EADS) TRS-3D/16-ES Air Search Radar for area surveillance

You Can Find Out more at the Bertholf's web Page at http://www.uscg.mil/pacarea/bertholf/

A very Impressive ship, hopefully they will give a tour soon.
Have a great Day Everyone!