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I'M BACK!! ...if that should mean anything....
9 years ago
Ever wonder why the price of gasoline is so high?
The 40 foot evergreen is located in the gold leaf rotunda of the hotel. The tree is decorated silver and gold bows, ball shaped ornaments, and small white lights. The necklaces, earrings, and other jewelry draped around the branches are what gives it a record value. It holds a total of 181 diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires, and other precious stones.
If you are planning a visit Abu Dhabi in the near future and make reservations at the Emirates Palace, for a seven day stay, your cost is going to be only $1,000,000, however, that includes the butler, and chauffeur driven Maybach luxury car as well as a private jet available for trips to other countries in the region. Oh, I would love to visit Iran or Syria during my Christmas vacation.
If you run short of cash, they also have ATM's, but it is a vending machine that pays out in gold! To find another machine like that, you will need to take the private jet to Germany!
What caught my attention is that Abu Dhabi is predominantly a Muslim country, why are they celebrating CHRISTmas?
However, a spokesman for the hotel answered that question. Asked if the tree might offend religious sensibilities in the United Arab Emirates? His reply was "It's a very liberal country"!
Might want to stop and asked some of the woman that live in this area as to how liberated they feel!
However, that is O.K., my little Christmas tree that has had the same ornaments on it for many years, it reminds me each year of Christmas past. Maybe, I will leave it up and celebrate the Muslim Holy Days.
This is a picture of a Christmas Tree at a glitzy hotel in the Muslim desert emirate of Abu Dhabi.
This particular tree is valued at $11,000,000 dollars. So you do not have to count zeros that is $11 Million dollars. The tree only cost $10,000 Dollars. The decorations was the expensive aspect of the Christmas Tree.The 40 foot evergreen is located in the gold leaf rotunda of the hotel. The tree is decorated silver and gold bows, ball shaped ornaments, and small white lights. The necklaces, earrings, and other jewelry draped around the branches are what gives it a record value. It holds a total of 181 diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires, and other precious stones.
If you are planning a visit Abu Dhabi in the near future and make reservations at the Emirates Palace, for a seven day stay, your cost is going to be only $1,000,000, however, that includes the butler, and chauffeur driven Maybach luxury car as well as a private jet available for trips to other countries in the region. Oh, I would love to visit Iran or Syria during my Christmas vacation.
If you run short of cash, they also have ATM's, but it is a vending machine that pays out in gold! To find another machine like that, you will need to take the private jet to Germany!
What caught my attention is that Abu Dhabi is predominantly a Muslim country, why are they celebrating CHRISTmas?
However, a spokesman for the hotel answered that question. Asked if the tree might offend religious sensibilities in the United Arab Emirates? His reply was "It's a very liberal country"!
Might want to stop and asked some of the woman that live in this area as to how liberated they feel!
However, that is O.K., my little Christmas tree that has had the same ornaments on it for many years, it reminds me each year of Christmas past. Maybe, I will leave it up and celebrate the Muslim Holy Days.
The Christmas Season is always a great time to reflect on the years that have passed. Tonight, while cruising this site, I came across this picture first posted on November 23, 2006. The photo was taken on Thanksgiving Day, 2006. We celebrated Thanksgiving as a family above the video store this particular year. Although, only five years has elapsed, I stared at it in amazement as to the transformation of each of the "little ones". Some may consider me as being verbose, however, when I look at this picture and see the transformation, all I can say is, WOW!
"FOUR GENERATIONS FOR DINNER"
I also came across this posting from December 23, 2006 which I have cut and pasted from the original posting on the blog site.
While on the subject of Christmas carols, recently a copy of a re-written carol was delivered to me, which I would like to share with you but the young artist wants to remain anonymous, as she is afraid that it may effect future Christmas gifts from grandma.
GRANDMA GOT RUN OVER BY A REINDEER
(Chorus)
Grandma got run over by a reindeer,
While walkin' the Beach Road
You can say there's no such thing as Santa
But for me and Grandpa, WE BELIEVE!
She'd been drinkin' to much Zinfindel
And we begged her not to go,
But with her wine glass in hand,
She stumbled out the door and fell in the snow.
When the Park Ranger found her Christmas morn
She was layin' face down in the ditch,
There were tiny hoof prints on her back
and inciminatin' red paint marks on her slacks.
Chorus (Repeat)
We are all so proud of Grandpa
He's been takin' this so well
He is till watchin' football
Drinkin' rum and playing poker at the Inn.
It's not Christmas without Grandma,
All the family is dressed in black.
And we just help but wonder,
Should we open her gifts or will Grandpa want them back.
Chorus (Repeat)
Now the Turkey is on the table,
We are using Grandma's favorite china.
We will surely miss her,
But would someone pass the potatoes so we can eat.
Grandma got run over by a reindeer
While walkin' the Beach Road
You can say there's no such thing as Santa
But for me and Grandpa, WE BELIEVE.
On June 26, 1876 , Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer led two hundred mounted U.S. Cavalrymen and scouts of the Crow Tribe into the valley of the Little Bighorn. Splitting his formation, he mounted a charge against an encampment containing 1,800 Lakota Sioux and Northern Cheyenne warriors. The short lived battle that transpired would be called "Custer's Last Stand" All members of the 7th U.S. Calvary would be killed in the valley or on the slopes of the surrounding hills during this engagement. There is one soldier that was never accounted for, his name was H.M. Harrington. Extensive searching by his family and the U.S. Army has never determined his status.
The picture of the above flag, known as a "guidon", with the distinctive swallow -tailed shape which is frayed, torn, and with possible blood stains is one of five that was carried by the 7th Calvary that day. It is the only flag that was recovered by the Army. Following the battle, those forces that were suppose to rendezvous with the main forces prior to the attack arrived and preformed the duties of the burial detail.
The above flag was found under the body of a soldier, according to the testimonials of the Indians involved in the fight, Corporal John Foley was attempting to escape on horseback, however, he shot himself in the head and his body covered the flag. All of the other flags were believed to be taken by the Indians.
Sergeant Ferdinand Culbertson recovered the flag and it became known as the "Culbertson Guidon" . Pieces of the flag, including one star was neatly cut from the flag, it is believed that different members of the burial squad took pieces of the flags as "war souvenirs".
After being kept in storage for many years it was displayed in Montana.
The Detroit Institute of Arts purchased the "guidon" in 1895 for $54.00.
The "guidon" was sold "because it did not fit with the museums focus on art" on Friday, December 10, 2010. A private collector purchased the "Culbertson Guidon" for $2.2 Million Dollars.
If you have never visited the "Valley of the Little Bighorn" and the site of "Custer's Last Stand", I would strongly recommend it. The field of battle and where each soldier or Indian fell in combat are clearly marked with crosses. You can cover the entire area from the trail system. The static displays in the museum gives you a good sense of how and why the massacre occurred. It is another case of some great American History that is now overlooked in your educational system.
In my best recollection, the year was the summer of 1954. After visiting Alaska during the winter, my father, Vern Harrington and by older brother, Tad Harrington worked for Shell Oil Company on the Alaskan Peninsula. This was the day of the early exploration in the wilderness of Alaska. Both my father and brother, even though he was a teenager at the time, were experience "horsemen" and packers. Their job with Shell Oil Company was to move the campsites from one location to another for the exploration crews. This was done with horses, which were leased from a homesteader in Homer Alaska by the name of Jack Dietz. The horses were then barged from Homer to the Alaska Peninsula (Old Harbor).
Moving the camp on a daily basis required them to work alone, ahead of the seismograph crews, most often by themselves. Later in the summer, my brother would move to a support boat that operated off shore for Shell Oil Company. My brother would be the radio operator on this boat, the M/V Tempest. This made my father the sole "packer" for the seismograph crews which almost cost him his life.
A secondary job that they held was to act as "bear guards" when they were working in the same area as the seismograph crews. In performance of this assignment, they did have to put down several Brown Bear that posed a threat to the crews and or horses. Keep in mind, that at this time these bears had experienced very little contact with humans and no contact with horses. Most likely, they considered the horses fair game as any other of their prey.
One of the bears that had to be put down, was a light colored Brown Bear, seeing a "blond" Brown Bear is common, however, this particular bear was almost a pure white in color. Unfortunately, colored film was not a reality and the only pictures taken were Black and White from an inexpensive camera. General Jimmy Doolittle, CEO of Shell Oil Company, visited the seismograph crews in the field, upon seeing the pictures, he turned copies of them over to Walt Disney Studio for their future use.
"Tad" Harrington ~ Alaska Peninsula ~ 1954
Recently, I saw this news clip on television and it made me wonder, if the folklore pertaining tothe "Spirit Bear" is correct or if perhaps there is a sub-specie of Brown Bear that are actually white or it is just a natural very light blond Brown Bear. The "white" bears filmed in the news clip are located many miles (800+) from the location of the "white bear" in the above picture. The possibility exists that if this is actually a sub-specie of the Brown Bear, although it would be a long distance, the possibility exists that there could have been a overland migration of the bears in the south to the Alaska Peninsula.
To view the news clip, click on the link highlighted below:
The sounding of "TAPS" always makes me sad, but at the same it makes me pause and reflect upon the past and the meaning behind the music. We have all heard the notes of "TAPS" played on the trumpet, I have read the actual words to TAPS but until now, I have never heard TAPS played in it's entirety except for one time at the Marines Barracks #1, Washington D.C.
Quite, by accident, I found it recently, it is a beautiful piece of music played by a young lady that plays the piece precisely and beautifully.
Having just recently returned from an extended driving trip, I had the opportunity to shoot so many pictures. Although my primary interest is Wildlife Photography, I also enjoy shooting pictures of old houses. I enjoy them, not only for their rustic features but also it makes me wonder about the people that once lived in these homes, their history, and their lives. I also saw a number of things that humored me. The trip also gave me an opportunity to observe first hand the economic conditions throughout the western states.
I came as a surprise to me last evening when the electorate of Nevada re-elected Senator Reid. I spent a great deal of time in the small towns of Nevada, most of them living ghost towns. So many businesses closed and house after house with a "For Sale" on it. Talking with the locals, I would have placed a heavy wager that Senator Reid would not be re-elected. Once again, I think the larger cities like Las Vegas and Reno played a major role in his re-election.
I cannot divulge the exact location at this time, I am seriously considering coming out of retirement and purchase a business in Nevada. In past trips, we have seen this business and now because of the economics, it is on the market. Nice mild winters, it would be a good trade off to live in Alaska in the summer and the deserts of Nevada in the winter. It has a small cafe, motel rooms, and a small bar. I did not stop or take a tour of the holdings but have since been in contact with the owner. I am now awaiting the details in regards to the profit and loss statements, what inventory is included, and of course the list of assets. It looks interesting, on a major highway with ample truck parking. Since my brother is a truck driver, I am sure he could push a little business in my direction for those driving the lonely highways of Nevada. I just hope someone does not see the potential before I can make a decision. It is not everyday of the week that you find a "Brothel For Sale"! Economics are so bad in Nevada the whorehouses are even having to close. Since seeing it, it has brought a lot of self indulged humor to the many miles of looking out the windshield. There were two big signs posted, one north bound and the other southbound. Did not see any cars or trucks parked in the parking lot.
The below picture, I know why the owners built this house at this location. It had the only trees that I saw in southern Wyoming for many miles!
Montana ~ Fixer Upper ~ Has a Nice Brick Chimney
Old Timers In Nevada Took Advantage Of Natural Building Materials In The High Desert ~ ROCKS (I Love Rocks) This is one of several that I found that was built into the bluff. Even has a two car garage built out of rocks.
This sign almost came home with me, I know a good location for it. It may be duplicated at a later date. It was located at a Rest Area, surely glad they tested the water and posted it. I have to wonder how many people stop there at night and do not see the sign?
The business community of Granby, Colorado also provided me a couple of days of humor.I do not know who is in charge of their marketing, but one would think that one of these businesses should not be sandwiched between the other two. "Hey, kids go in and buy yourself a "Happy Meal" or a Foot Longer", I am going into this store and buy myself a "Happy Jug"! As big as the parking lot is, surely there is room for a "Pawn Shop" or perhaps a good location for an "Adult Gift Store" next to Burger King and Taco Bell.
In all seriousness, if you enjoy history or old buildings, spend sometime exploring Nevada from Las Vegas north to the Oregon border. It is a great place, desolate and miles of straight highway, but unique in it's own rugged way. I will explore it once again, perhaps my bucket list for next year. Goldfield, Nevada which is located on Highway 95 just a few miles from Death Valley in California. It is a living ghost town. At one time, it was the largest City in Nevada during the gold and silver days, population 25,000 to 30,000. Today, ten or twelve blocks of empty buildings sit vacant, boarded up, remnants of the turn of the century. There is a two story hotel that takes up a half city block, peeking through the dusty windows, I could make out the lobby furnishings, including the front desk with the ornate wood trim. It was beautiful and sitting idle for many years. There is only a handful of businesses in Goldfield today, most of them doing business in antiques. I did find a little corner grocery store. Very little inventory but they did have a coffee pot. A lady was operating the store as I made my way to the coffee bar. There were two men much senior to me standing by the coffee bar, enjoying a cup of coffee. Both very helpful, showed me where the cups and sugar was at and even poured me a cup of coffee. I would place them in their late 80's perhaps early 90's. Both dressed in slacks, a dress shirt and pull over sweater. We struck up a conversation from my questions I posed to them about Goldfield. They were raised there as youngsters and have lived there throughout their life. One asked me if I had family, I replied that I did and told him of my children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. One of them replied that they had outlived their families. They recalled the glory days, the bars, saloons, brothels, and gunfights in the street. When I had came in, they were having a discussion on country western music with the lady that worked in the store. One of them asked me if I liked harmonica music. I replied that I did, that I had a friend in Alaska that played the harmonica but Bob had passed away. He asked me if I would like to hear a piece of music, as he reached into his pocket and pulled out this harmonica. His eyes stared into mine and he said, "I don't play that country stuff, I play classical harmonica". He commenced on his chosen piece of music, I watch his hand movements and lips coordinate the music that transpired, every once in awhile he had to pause long enough just to get some air into his lungs to continue. The entire time he played, he never look away from the eyes of his friend, as if he was seeking approval of how he was doing. Being classical, it was a very long piece of music, a good seven or eight minutes. Afterward, as we visited he asked me if I had recognized the piece, I got lucky as I did not know the piece, but I knew if had come from the "Big Band Era". He smiled, "young man, you are right, Tommy Dorsey made it popular, but the original composer was ..........." He told me all about the European composer who had written the piece. As I walked to the front counter to pay for my coffee, they followed me. At the counter, I shook their hands and once again thanked him for playing for me, it was very enjoyable. As I turned to leave, his friend came up beside me and whispered "thank you for taking the time to listen to him play and for the kind words that you said about him, you have made him happy man today." I considered myself the lucky one to have had the opportunity to meet them.
This is just another one of those reason's that I do not drive the Interstate Highway System, I do not want to be in such a hurry that I cannot spend a forty five minutes of my time visiting people like this.
The clip that you just viewed was aired on CNN, typically considered to be on the liberal side of politics. My concern is why was this not verified and researched by our news media. Perhaps, we have become accustomed to the fact that what we hear on our evening news is verified and reliable information.
I had four Great Uncles from the same family (Baker Brothers) that served in World War II in the Europe. My Great Uncle Wayne Baker, went ashore at Omaha Beach during the Normandy Invasion. I also had a Uncle on my other side of the family serve in the same area of operation during World War II. Uncle Marshall Riley served in both World War II and the Korean War. I remember when he returned home and visited us, following World War II. I also remember when he visited us when he was being transferred to combat in Korea. I did not know my Great Uncles, but I have visited their grave sites in recent years, I have a great deal of respect for this generation of Americans because they answered the call.
I also hold a great deal of respect for the office of the President of the United States. However, I hold very little respect for President Barack Obama. He is a great Orator, when he has the teleprompter in front of him but can we always trust what he is telling us. I served under one Commander In Chief, which I had little respect for however, his leadership qualities surpass those of our current Commander in Chief.
In regards to the news clip aired on CNN, why didn't someone stop to verify the contents of his speech or call him on his misleading representation pertaining to his fathers tenure in the military fores during World War II.
President Obama's father was named Barack Hussein Obama, Senior. His date of birth was 4 April 1936 and he passed away on 24 November 1982.
His mother remarried, Lolo Soetoro (two additional aliases). His date of birth was 2 June 1935 and he passed away on 2 March 1987.
World War II commenced in Europe in September 1939 when Germany invaded Poland. America would enter the war in later years. In the Pacific, America entered the war with Japan after they attacked Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941. For practical purposes, World War II ended in August on both fronts, Europe and the Pacific Ocean region.
If President Obama's father returned as a Veteran of World War II as he claims, his father set a new record as being the youngest veteran in our history. At the conclusion of the World War II his father had not reached his 9th birth date.
Giving our President the benefit of the doubt, I researched (took all of five minutes) his stepfather, Lolo Soetoro. He was a year older than Barack H. Obama, SR which would have made him slightly over ten years of age.
President Obama, you are quoted as saying, "I've got two daughters. 9 years old and 6 years old. I am going to teach them first of all about values and morals." I would consider a blatant lie a testimony to the lack of values.
I must admit, that I did not include the complete quote above, the entire quotation reads as follows:
"I've got two daughters. 9 years old and 6 years old. I am going to teach them first of all about values and morals. But, if they make a mistake, I don't want them punished with a baby."
I had four Great Uncles from the same family (Baker Brothers) that served in World War II in the Europe. My Great Uncle Wayne Baker, went ashore at Omaha Beach during the Normandy Invasion. I also had a Uncle on my other side of the family serve in the same area of operation during World War II. Uncle Marshall Riley served in both World War II and the Korean War. I remember when he returned home and visited us, following World War II. I also remember when he visited us when he was being transferred to combat in Korea. I did not know my Great Uncles, but I have visited their grave sites in recent years, I have a great deal of respect for this generation of Americans because they answered the call.
I also hold a great deal of respect for the office of the President of the United States. However, I hold very little respect for President Barack Obama. He is a great Orator, when he has the teleprompter in front of him but can we always trust what he is telling us. I served under one Commander In Chief, which I had little respect for however, his leadership qualities surpass those of our current Commander in Chief.
In regards to the news clip aired on CNN, why didn't someone stop to verify the contents of his speech or call him on his misleading representation pertaining to his fathers tenure in the military fores during World War II.
President Obama's father was named Barack Hussein Obama, Senior. His date of birth was 4 April 1936 and he passed away on 24 November 1982.
His mother remarried, Lolo Soetoro (two additional aliases). His date of birth was 2 June 1935 and he passed away on 2 March 1987.
World War II commenced in Europe in September 1939 when Germany invaded Poland. America would enter the war in later years. In the Pacific, America entered the war with Japan after they attacked Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941. For practical purposes, World War II ended in August on both fronts, Europe and the Pacific Ocean region.
If President Obama's father returned as a Veteran of World War II as he claims, his father set a new record as being the youngest veteran in our history. At the conclusion of the World War II his father had not reached his 9th birth date.
Giving our President the benefit of the doubt, I researched (took all of five minutes) his stepfather, Lolo Soetoro. He was a year older than Barack H. Obama, SR which would have made him slightly over ten years of age.
President Obama, you are quoted as saying, "I've got two daughters. 9 years old and 6 years old. I am going to teach them first of all about values and morals." I would consider a blatant lie a testimony to the lack of values.
I must admit, that I did not include the complete quote above, the entire quotation reads as follows:
"I've got two daughters. 9 years old and 6 years old. I am going to teach them first of all about values and morals. But, if they make a mistake, I don't want them punished with a baby."
Each morning, I find myself sitting on our front deck or on the bench in the rock garden taking my morning coffee and admiring the variety of flowers that are in blossom. The labors of last spring are now paying big dividends in every color and shape.
"Columbine"
Terry's Birthday Present A Half Dozen Years Past
"Lillies ~ A Gift That Continues To Give
"Lilly"
"Wild Lupine"
"Dianthus"
This is one of my favorites, the Livingston Daisy. Their colors are so vibrant, sunglasses are recommended to look at them. At night and cloudy days, they close up and when the first rays of the sun hit them, they pop open with a transfusion of brilliant colors. A hardy plant and when planted about six inches apart, they will then mat the ground in a blanket of color.
Bed of Livingston Daisies
Livingstone Daises
More Livingston Daises
These are the giants of our "rock garden, although the rainy and windy summer we have enjoyed this year, it has hampered their growth. We have a number of these in our garden, to date the tallest one is about seven feet tall. There is one white, that is just now forming the blossoms. In full bloom, it will likely peak out between eight and nine feet in height.
"Purple Delphiniums"
Poor little Riley James Harrington, Great Granddaughter, is not quite tall enough to "smell the flowers"
Despite the every day stresses of life, you know you have had a great day when the daylight slowly surrenders to night allowing you to reflect upon the day that you experienced. As the sun slowly settled behind the mountains on the Alaskan Peninsula, I sat and observed the Eagle family and ending to their day. Setting on the bluff, overlooking the river of my youth, my family fished the river below me as I watched the antics of the Eaglets.
"Parent Checking On the Brood"
"3rd Eaglet Going To Scare His Unsuspecting Two Siblings"
As the Eaglets settled down for a nap, I visited the Anchor River, finding my family fishing one of my favorite stretches of the river. The traditional method that my father taught me, now passed to the next two generations. I reflected upon this as I watched my Grandson, Son, and Daughter In Law building their own fishing memories. 
My son, Heath has fished this river on his own, from the time he was in the 2nd grade, guiding fishermen before he ever entered junior high school. He has built his own legacy on the river, although he was won his share of large fish derbies, he fishes because be loves to fish and this is his home waters. 
Arriving home just as the sun settled behind the horizon, the sky was slowly turning pink. My two pals, "Dutch" and "Ruger" and I walked out to the edge of our lawn on the bluff overlooking Anchor River.
We watched, as the pink slowly changed to yellows, golds, and oranges making the final transition to night. As I walked back across the lawn, I thought to myself,"It Has Been A Good Day".
When the wind and marine conditions finally subsided enough to allow us to get on Cook Inlet on Sunday, we found some fantastic fishing and the surprise of my fifty eight years of sport fishing. Fishing off of the Anchor Point Lighthouse in about 110 feet of water, we found some fantastic halibut fishing. Having boated the halibut shown below, which weighed in at 173 pounds and knowing this was enough fish to last us through the winter, I decided to see if I could not "mooch" up a Silver Salmon or possibly a late run King Salmon inbound for the Kenai River.
Rigging up my trolling rod with a Magnum Blade Cook Inlet Special, with a Chartreuse and Flame 50/50 Blade, I commenced mooching. We were consistently seeing both Silver Salmon and Pink Salmon jumping in this area. Growing weary of "mooching", I put my rod in the holder and just let the big flashing blade stream behind the boat, occasional breaking the surface with the tide running out. While watching the others fish for halibut, I sat drinking my coffee and harassing them for taking so long to catch a fish.
Fish On! No one saw the fish strike, but we could all hear my reel screaming as line was rapidly being stripped from the reel. Perhaps, I had got lucky and finally hooked up with that big King Salmon I had wanted all of my life. With assistance due to the pressure on the rod, two of us got the rod out of the holder. I had to sit and hold the rod with both hands as the rod tip bent to the waters edge. The others got their gear reeled in, started the boat and commenced giving chase after my King Salmon, hoping that I could get some additional line back onto my reel.
Catching up with the big fish, it decided to go deep and we hovered over the top of it just enough that the line would not touch the side of the boat, did not want to take the chance of loosing this fish! After 32 minutes of fighting the fish deep, I felt it starting to work itself back up to the surface, I reeled as fast as I could to recover my line and not allow any slack where it could slip the hook.
Once again, the fish hesitated on coming to the surface at about the twenty foot mark, since we were hovering close to the fish, we could pick it up on the fish finder which pretty much assured us that I had hooked into a big King Salmon. Hoping that it was tiring, one person got the net out that we use for King Salmon while the other two manned the cameras to capture the landing of the big King.
Again the fish went down to about 40 feet according to the fish finding, but not for long, he turned in an instance and headed to the surface, fast enough that the fish finder could not track his movement. By now, my arms were tired from the strain of the rod and reeling, there was no way that I could keep up with him as he ran for the surface. He broke the surface about 20 feet behind the boat, I stopped reeling in disbelief of what I saw. It was the fish that dreams are made of, but it was not a King Salmon. It was only after we got home and looked at pictures that we were able to identify the specie.
Breaking the surface, he was airborne four times, finally on the fourth jump he cleared the water about six feet and rolled to the left as he entered the water, the only assumption we can make is that he rolled in the slack line on his assent to the surface and snapped the line. The snapping of the line sounded like a gun shot, I was heart broken, but I also realized that it was one of those times in your life that you have to appreciate it, despite the outcome. The big fish that got away has been identified as a "Blue Marlin", why it was this far north is any one's guess. Perhaps, following migrating salmon runs to feed, similar to the Salmon Sharks, perhaps it is the warming the oceans and their migration patterns of the Marlin is moving north.
All, I know it was a great fish story and a great day on the water. 
IF IT SHOULD BE
If it should be that I grow weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then you must do what must be done,
For this last battle cannot be won.
You will be sad, I understand.
Don't let your grief then stay your hand.
For this day, more than all the rest,
Your love for me must stand the test.
We've had so many happy years.
What is to come can hold no fears.
You'd not want me to suffer so;
The time has come -- please let me go.
Take me where my need they'll tend,
And please stay with me till the end.
Hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time that you will see
The kindness that you did for me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved.
Please do not grieve -- it must be you
Who had this painful thing to do.
We've been so close, we two, these years;
Don't let your heart hold back its tears.
--- Anonymous ---
If it should be that I grow weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then you must do what must be done,
For this last battle cannot be won.
You will be sad, I understand.
Don't let your grief then stay your hand.
For this day, more than all the rest,
Your love for me must stand the test.
We've had so many happy years.
What is to come can hold no fears.
You'd not want me to suffer so;
The time has come -- please let me go.
Take me where my need they'll tend,
And please stay with me till the end.
Hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time that you will see
The kindness that you did for me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved.
Please do not grieve -- it must be you
Who had this painful thing to do.
We've been so close, we two, these years;
Don't let your heart hold back its tears.
--- Anonymous ---
Today, we had to let a friend slip away, a decision that was difficult to make, she now rests without the pain and suffrage of age. She was just a "dog" some would say, but to us she was part of our family, a friend that gave so much and ask for so little in return.
"GOLDIE"
June 16, 2010
June 16, 2010
"Goldie" was rescued from an owner that did not care for her by our daughter in law. When my son and his family moved from this area in 2002, "Goldie" remained with us and became part of our family. Although, she was an older dog when she came to stay with us, her heart was that of a puppy. We enjoyed her company for 6 / 7 years.In our home, she had good friends, her best friends were "Ruger" and "Dutch". Between the three, there was never a quarrel over their personal dog dish or where they slept. Although competitive in sport, again their was never a quarrel if one got to the ball before the other. "Goldie" was the oldest but she was all heart. Her legs could not carry her as fast over the ground as the other two dogs, her lungs would not support the effort. But, in the water, she was the best swimmer that I have ever witnessed.
"THE THREE AMIGOS"
"Ruger" ~ Dutch ~ Goldie
"Just A Dog", there are those that feel animals do not have a sense of knowing when something is wrong. I have witnessed this sense in dogs on several occasions over the past few years, but never in the form that I witnessed today. Although, they have been close friends for years, they have always maintained their own separate sleeping areas and even rooms in the house.
Today, "Dutch" and "Ruger" remained in the area that the resting spot for "Goldie" was prepared in the meadow, her favorite place to explore and play. After we returned to the house, both dogs went to the place that "Goldie" has been resting for the past several days. She was aware of their presence, occasionally lifting her head to see them. They remained snuggled up to her for a couple of hours. In the years that they have been together, I have never seen them lay together this close. I am sure it gave "Goldie" the comfort that she needed as well as the comfort that it gave us as humans.
"Goldie"
May your spirit run free in the meadow,
Where the wild flowers grow.
Where we can share our past memories,
In your grace,
May the "ball" always bounce in your place.
In Anchor Point, Alaska we have just completed our 16th Annual Calcutta King Salmon International Tournament. If you are not familiar with a Calcutta Tournament. In this particular case, all of the boats entering the tournament are auctioned off the night before the tournament to the general public. The person that has the "high bid" on a boat and if that particular boat wins the tournament, the "high bidder" receives 50% of the funds generated by the auction. The boat or individual on that particular boat that weighs in the largest King Salmon will receive 25% of the auction funds. This amount is then normally divided equally with the other members on the boat. The tournament is restricted to one prize money for the largest King Salmon weighed in. The "one fish wins all" encourages catch and release of this great sport fish. The remaining 25% is of the funds is retained by the sportsman association to fund their "youth activities".
In the Sixteen year history of the Tournament, King Salmon in the 20 to 50+ pound class have won the tournament. Also, in the history of the tournament, only one boat has repeated as the "Calcutta Tournament" champion. The boat is the "Lauren A" skippered by Meryl Wolford.
However, that record was broken in the tournament this year when this same boat, skipper,and crew completed a "Three Peat". Meryl and his crew won the tournament in 2000 with a 31.1 pound King Salmon; again in 2006 they became the Champions with a 37.4 pound King Salmon.
This year, they achieved their Championship with a King Salmon weighing in at 30.5 pounds.
This crew fishes together every year, not necessarily to win the tournament but just to go fishing. They are all true gentlemen and sportsmen. I have known Meryl, for many years. I consider him as one of my best friends. He retired as a Sports Fishermen Guide a couple of years ago, however when fishing with him it was never a guide / client relationship. He always made you feel that you were on a fishing trip with a "buddy".
Meryl worked out of our tackle shop, the Anchor Angler on Anchor River for twenty three years. He was a "salmon troller" on Cook Inlet. During that time, we would book clients for him on a percentage basis. We never had a contract, our contract was a handshake. In that length of time and the hundreds of fishermen that we booked to fish with Meryl, we did not have a single complaint from anyone that fished with him. He is still the only man that I know that removes his hat when being introduced to a lady. He is "old school", a true gentleman. He is my friend and I feel very fortunate. He is a true "Champion" in so many respects.
Oh, Did I mention that it was just Meryl and I trolling off the beaches of Whiskey Gulch when I hooked up and landed the King Salmon of my "lifetime", a beautiful fish weighing in at 72 pounds.
In the Sixteen year history of the Tournament, King Salmon in the 20 to 50+ pound class have won the tournament. Also, in the history of the tournament, only one boat has repeated as the "Calcutta Tournament" champion. The boat is the "Lauren A" skippered by Meryl Wolford.
However, that record was broken in the tournament this year when this same boat, skipper,and crew completed a "Three Peat". Meryl and his crew won the tournament in 2000 with a 31.1 pound King Salmon; again in 2006 they became the Champions with a 37.4 pound King Salmon.
This year, they achieved their Championship with a King Salmon weighing in at 30.5 pounds.
This crew fishes together every year, not necessarily to win the tournament but just to go fishing. They are all true gentlemen and sportsmen. I have known Meryl, for many years. I consider him as one of my best friends. He retired as a Sports Fishermen Guide a couple of years ago, however when fishing with him it was never a guide / client relationship. He always made you feel that you were on a fishing trip with a "buddy".
Meryl worked out of our tackle shop, the Anchor Angler on Anchor River for twenty three years. He was a "salmon troller" on Cook Inlet. During that time, we would book clients for him on a percentage basis. We never had a contract, our contract was a handshake. In that length of time and the hundreds of fishermen that we booked to fish with Meryl, we did not have a single complaint from anyone that fished with him. He is still the only man that I know that removes his hat when being introduced to a lady. He is "old school", a true gentleman. He is my friend and I feel very fortunate. He is a true "Champion" in so many respects.
Oh, Did I mention that it was just Meryl and I trolling off the beaches of Whiskey Gulch when I hooked up and landed the King Salmon of my "lifetime", a beautiful fish weighing in at 72 pounds.
2010 Calcutta International King Salmon Tournament Champions
DISCLOSURE: To be fair and balanced, I feel that a complete personal disclosure must be made prior to your reading this posting. I am a Conservative, Independent Republican, Smoker, Tea Bag Supporter, WASP, and Butt Stripper. Other than that, I am basically a good person.
Although, I am a smoker, I do not recommend that anyone take up the habit. Once hooked, it is a very tough habit to break and as I am reminded each day, it is harmful to your health. However, there is a good side to smoking and everyone should be made aware of this fact. Smoking could also be a excellent way to supplement your daily income, if you collect "butts" for a proposed refund.
On this date, I read an article that was most interesting. According to a study conducted and published in the American Chemical Society bi-weekly journal, Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, scientists have identified nine chemicals in cigarette butts (filter). Although, one chemical is so toxic that it will kill fish when discarded into a body of water. To eliminate this problem, I am normally a "butt stripper", I will discard the remaining tobacco and a little paper on the ground, but the filter goes into my pocket.
The chemicals that they have found in the filter portion of the cigarette after immersing the cigarette butt in water acts as a deterrent to corrosion and rusting. They applied the extracts to N80, a type of steel used in oil pipes and found that the chemical solution protected the pipes from both corrosion and rusting. They estimate that 4.5 trillion cigarette butts find their way into the environment each year.
Having discussed this discovery this morning, we had a panel discussion at our daily "coffee clutch" pertaining to accidental fuel spills due to pipelines being corroded. Although, these discussion groups have a tendency to become political, I came upon a concept that may well be a break through in regards to oil spill containment and clean up.
The "Tea Party" movement is spreading across our nation, concerned citizens about government control and the erosion of our democracy. To the Liberal minded folks, the "Tea Party" movement is a bunch of radicals and right wingers. The solution to improve their image in the eyes of all is simple. Currently there is a great concern, rightfully so, pertaining to the continued oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. It was then that I developed a concept and asked for opinions from our focus group. There was laughter as well as comments made as to my level of education. However, listen to me and buy stock in the company that makes Lipton Tea.
My concept was that a simple "tea bag" when used in vast quantities could and would clean up a oil spill. Perhaps, you can understand why I was the principle recipient of crude remarks. I asked the nice waitress if she would please bring me a bowl of cold tap water, some oil from a can of lubricant oil under the bar, and a tea bag. I then applied a good solution of common table salt to the water to attain the salinity of typical ocean waters. Once stirred for a couple of minutes to dissolve the salt, I applied a liberal amount of 3 in 1 oil to coat the surface of the make shift ocean. Dipping the "tea bag" into the oil water and moving the bag through the water, the oil was absorbed by the "tea bag". Approximately 90% of the oil was collected in less than two minutes. I came upon this clean up system from reading a little history pertaining to the "Boston Tea Party", "Taxation with Representation". On December 16, 1773 a fleet of ships were tied up in Boston Harbor. Colony Rebels boarded the ships and threw all of the tea into the harbor. No oil slicks were seen in Boston Harbor for many years following this date.
Perhaps, by cleaning up the Gulf of Mexico with Tea Bags, a new light would be shed on the group of individuals that are frowned upon by the Liberals and Environmentalists. If you want to amaze your friends, you to can be enlightened by this home experiment.
Most recently, the "God Enriches" State of Arizona has been been bombarded in the news media after legislation was adopted and signed into law by the Governor requiring proof of citizenship. Protest marches and threats to boycott this great state has come from all sides. Despite the fact that it is simply enforcing the federal statues that were adopted in 1952, known as the Smith Act. Those folks that crunch numbers and take the pulse of the nation on everything that occurs has polling data supporting that 60% of our nation and 73% of Arizona residents support the enforcement of the new law in Arizona.
ALASKA SUPPORTS ARIZONA
Although, you are required to show a U.S. Passport if driving into Alaska, via the Alcan Highway, once you arrive io the Last Frontier, you are free to drive the highways and byways of our great State. The single exception to that policy is the Kenai Peninsula. This pristine and beautiful area has become the playground of Alaska. This is particular true for those residents of our largest metropolitan area, Anchorage, Alaska. Traffic counts and other polling data indicates that the population of the Kenai Peninsula increases by 437% between the months of May through August.
Most recently, the Kenai Peninsula Borough, the duly elected government of an area designated by borders enacted a similar program as Arizona. In all other states, except Louisiana, these designated areas are known as counties. Due to the increase in cost of maintaining highways, parks, and other recreational facilities the Borough Government has been forced into limiting the number of visitors to the area. Kenai Peninsula Borough Ordinance 32-2010 was unanimously adopted on May 5, 2010 and signed into law by the Borough Mayor on May 6, 2010.
Effective, May 10, 2010 any person not residing within the geographical location of the Kenai Peninsula must have in their possession a Kenai Peninsula Passport. Port of Entries will be established at the base Turnagain Pass on the Seward Highway and at each of the harbor facilities in Kenai, Seward, Homer, and Seldovia. All person's entering the Kenai Peninsula from these primary points must have in their possession the Kenai Peninsula Passport indicating their current address, place of birth, date of birth, and citizenship. Each member of the family is required to possess a passport. To acquire a Kenai Peninsula Passport, you must provide proof of evidence as supporting documentation to obtain the Passport. The cost of each Passport is established at $50.00 and is valid for two years. Senior Citizens with a current address in Alaska is entitled to a free Passport as all children under one year of age if accompanied by at least one parent.
Possession of the passport is for identification and residency status only. It does not preclude obtaining current sport fishing and hunting license, King Salmon Stamps, Campground Passes, including those required by federal, state and borough facilities, boat launch fees and passes, and any other cost associated with recreational activities as may be deemed necessary by federal, state, borough, and city governments. While visiting the Kenai Peninsula, dependent of which locality that you visit, you can can also expect to pay a Kenai Peninsula Sales Tax as well as imposed Sales Taxes by incorporated cities. These fees will very dependent on the area that you choose to visit, minimum Sales Tax that you will encounter is 2.5% to a high of 7.5%.
Although, to some these additional restrictions may appear to be excessive, however, it is a small price to pay for a visit to paradise. Enjoy yourselves exploring the beautiful, Kenai Peninsula.
Most recently, the Kenai Peninsula Borough, the duly elected government of an area designated by borders enacted a similar program as Arizona. In all other states, except Louisiana, these designated areas are known as counties. Due to the increase in cost of maintaining highways, parks, and other recreational facilities the Borough Government has been forced into limiting the number of visitors to the area. Kenai Peninsula Borough Ordinance 32-2010 was unanimously adopted on May 5, 2010 and signed into law by the Borough Mayor on May 6, 2010.
Effective, May 10, 2010 any person not residing within the geographical location of the Kenai Peninsula must have in their possession a Kenai Peninsula Passport. Port of Entries will be established at the base Turnagain Pass on the Seward Highway and at each of the harbor facilities in Kenai, Seward, Homer, and Seldovia. All person's entering the Kenai Peninsula from these primary points must have in their possession the Kenai Peninsula Passport indicating their current address, place of birth, date of birth, and citizenship. Each member of the family is required to possess a passport. To acquire a Kenai Peninsula Passport, you must provide proof of evidence as supporting documentation to obtain the Passport. The cost of each Passport is established at $50.00 and is valid for two years. Senior Citizens with a current address in Alaska is entitled to a free Passport as all children under one year of age if accompanied by at least one parent.
Possession of the passport is for identification and residency status only. It does not preclude obtaining current sport fishing and hunting license, King Salmon Stamps, Campground Passes, including those required by federal, state and borough facilities, boat launch fees and passes, and any other cost associated with recreational activities as may be deemed necessary by federal, state, borough, and city governments. While visiting the Kenai Peninsula, dependent of which locality that you visit, you can can also expect to pay a Kenai Peninsula Sales Tax as well as imposed Sales Taxes by incorporated cities. These fees will very dependent on the area that you choose to visit, minimum Sales Tax that you will encounter is 2.5% to a high of 7.5%.
Although, to some these additional restrictions may appear to be excessive, however, it is a small price to pay for a visit to paradise. Enjoy yourselves exploring the beautiful, Kenai Peninsula.
Have been spending some time visiting the marsh land at the mouth of the Anchor River in order to photograph the migratory waterfowl that frequent this area in the spring. Until today, I have had only the Mallard and Merganser Ducks to entertain myself.
Drove down to the parking area overlooking the "Scum Bag Hole", a flock of Merganser played along the edges of the river across from me. Since no other vehicles were around, I let my two assistants out to exercise. "Dutch" and "Ruger" were exploring the grass and finding all kinds of new smells and other items to explore. As I sat awaiting their return, I notice three heads popping up in the marsh grass about a hundred yards from where I was parked. Recognizing them as geese, I prepared my camera. I knew that to get a good picture, I would need to cross the open space and get in as close as possible.
I stepped from my truck and slowly made my way through the marsh grass in my "tenny" runners. Not totally prepared for the marsh mud that I would encounter to get close enough. I went as far as I considered it to be safe, from both spooking the geese and having to "mud wallow". It was then I spotted "Ruger" back at the truck. I called him and he came a running. If you don't know "Ruger" he has had no formal training as a retriever and slightly handicapped with having only one eye. I pointed the geese out to him and his instincts kicked in, he did not run, he slowly and deliberately walked towards the geese. Stopping occasionally in order not to spook them. I was so proud of him in the way that he was working.
"Dutch" seeing that we were playing, joined me just as the flock of three geese went airborne.
Drove down to the parking area overlooking the "Scum Bag Hole", a flock of Merganser played along the edges of the river across from me. Since no other vehicles were around, I let my two assistants out to exercise. "Dutch" and "Ruger" were exploring the grass and finding all kinds of new smells and other items to explore. As I sat awaiting their return, I notice three heads popping up in the marsh grass about a hundred yards from where I was parked. Recognizing them as geese, I prepared my camera. I knew that to get a good picture, I would need to cross the open space and get in as close as possible.
I stepped from my truck and slowly made my way through the marsh grass in my "tenny" runners. Not totally prepared for the marsh mud that I would encounter to get close enough. I went as far as I considered it to be safe, from both spooking the geese and having to "mud wallow". It was then I spotted "Ruger" back at the truck. I called him and he came a running. If you don't know "Ruger" he has had no formal training as a retriever and slightly handicapped with having only one eye. I pointed the geese out to him and his instincts kicked in, he did not run, he slowly and deliberately walked towards the geese. Stopping occasionally in order not to spook them. I was so proud of him in the way that he was working.
"Dutch" seeing that we were playing, joined me just as the flock of three geese went airborne.
"Ruger" On Hold
"One More Step"
"Geese Launch"
"Fly By" Past My Camera Lens"
The Geese then circled out over the inlet and came right back in to land at the edge of a small gravel bar in the Anchor River."Water Landing"
Both "Dutch" and "Ruger" had watched them circle and come back in for the landing on the gravel bar. They were just making the decision as to whether they should make a swim for the gravel bar or not when the Geese once again launched. Again, they made a circle flight pattern and landed in the original spot in the marsh where they were first spotted.
They are focused on the Geese, they just don't know if it is worth the swim to get them to fly again.
Having two muddy dogs, I decided it was best to give them a swim and let the Geese go back to what Geese do best. "Ruger" and "Dutch" enjoyed their first ball playing in Anchor River for this season. I was so proud of them both, neither barked at anytime and they stayed focused on those Geese the entire time they were airborne. I am still anxious to find a pond of ducks or geese that I can turn "Dutch" loose to see his ability at "tolling".
Additional shots on this outing are posted on http://photosrh.bologspot.com
Prior to reading this posting, I would recommend that you read the previous posting on this site, dated 4/23/2010.
The Military Religious Foundation was the group that applied political pressure to the Department of Defense, in particular the U.S. Army to cancel the invitation of Evangelist Franklin Graham as the guest speaker at National Prayer Day ceremonies held at the Pentagon on May 6, 2010. Unfortunately, the U.S. Army or higher authority yielded to the pressure and canceled the appearance of Franklin Graham.
Today, in Denver, Colorado this same group, The Military Religious Freedom Foundation, is applying the pressure to have the above symbol removed and changed. This is the military emblem of Evans Army Community Hospital at Fort Carson, Colorado. The motto "pro deo et humanitate" means "For God and Humanity". "The cross, which has a pointed base is both an emblem of mercy and a symbol dating to the Middle Ages, when pilgrims carried a cross with a spiked base to mark the site of a camp."
Mikey Weinstein, President of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation said "that's a reference to the Crusades and could embolden U.S. enemies who want to portray the war on terror as a Christian war on Islam."
I really did not want to get into this "dog fight", but I am tiring rapidly of the daily onslaughts of America by radicals that are pursuing their personal agenda against our foundation. It is safe to assume, eventually they will get around to applying pressure to the U.S. Navy.
The U.S. Flag Code provides that "No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the United States of America, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea, the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for the personnel of the Navy." In 1975, this code was amended to also allow the "Jewish Pennant" the same honor.
U.S. Navy Church Pennant
I would guess that eventually this same group will want to remove all of the "Red Crosses" from the helmets of our military medical personnel.
The Military Religious Foundation was the group that applied political pressure to the Department of Defense, in particular the U.S. Army to cancel the invitation of Evangelist Franklin Graham as the guest speaker at National Prayer Day ceremonies held at the Pentagon on May 6, 2010. Unfortunately, the U.S. Army or higher authority yielded to the pressure and canceled the appearance of Franklin Graham.
Today, in Denver, Colorado this same group, The Military Religious Freedom Foundation, is applying the pressure to have the above symbol removed and changed. This is the military emblem of Evans Army Community Hospital at Fort Carson, Colorado. The motto "pro deo et humanitate" means "For God and Humanity". "The cross, which has a pointed base is both an emblem of mercy and a symbol dating to the Middle Ages, when pilgrims carried a cross with a spiked base to mark the site of a camp."
Mikey Weinstein, President of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation said "that's a reference to the Crusades and could embolden U.S. enemies who want to portray the war on terror as a Christian war on Islam."
I really did not want to get into this "dog fight", but I am tiring rapidly of the daily onslaughts of America by radicals that are pursuing their personal agenda against our foundation. It is safe to assume, eventually they will get around to applying pressure to the U.S. Navy.
The U.S. Flag Code provides that "No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the United States of America, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea, the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for the personnel of the Navy." In 1975, this code was amended to also allow the "Jewish Pennant" the same honor.
U.S. Navy Church Pennant
I would guess that eventually this same group will want to remove all of the "Red Crosses" from the helmets of our military medical personnel.
Contributors
- Stan Harrington
- Stan grew up fishing the rivers and marine waters of Cook Inlet since the 1950's. Retired from the U.S. Navy in 1983. Stan and his family owned and operated Anchor Angler Tackle Shop on Anchor River for twenty-two years. He was the host of the popular daily radio program, "Kenai Peninsula Sport Fishing Report" on radio stations KGTL, KPEN, and K-Wave for fifteen years. Stan retired from business in 2007 and continues to live in Anchor Point, Alaska.
My Blog List
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Elk In The Rut12 years ago
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Winter 2012 (March)12 years ago
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No Need To Apologize13 years ago
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Key, Like Kilo14 years ago
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What Is In A Name14 years ago
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OK HERE I AM15 years ago
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soooo many dogs16 years ago
Anchor Point, Alaskla
Anchorage, Alaska
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