For those considering a trip to Alaska, you may want to connect with others interested in travel to or living up in Alaska on Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g28... . I have found their forums to be an outstanding exchange of quality information, especially for those of us coming up from the lower 48 :)
Glad to help Boomer. I enjoy writing about travel almost as much as I enjoy the travel :)
And as for the winter trips to Fairbanks, I'm a huge fan . . . and only too sorry that my work schedule in March 09 will keep me way. But I will be back in 2010 for the ONAC and everything else that is going on up there in March!
Good morning Arctic cam viewers, It's wed morning and looking forward to be at Fairbanks friday afternoon. Our weather here in Kotzebue is really nice this morning. The ocean is really calm this morning and it's a great day for salmon fishing...which allot of folks are doing right now... You all take care and be safe with your travels..:) ~Yogie~
furkids_mom, just viewed your site....FANTASTIC! May I ask what type of camera you are using? My husband and I are in the market for a new camera and like the pictures on your site. We were in AK in May/June.....got wonderful pictures except for distance shots. Any suggestions you might have would be appreciated. Thanks.
Hope this misty morning finds everyone well and happy... Our garden seems to be weathering the cool weather OK, but I dont think our yield will be as much as last year, especially my prized and coveted cucumbers...
Markg454: Welcome to our fair city on the banks! answers to your questions in order:
1. Yes...The Tanana supports a fair run of King and Chum and a lesser run of Silvers... 2. Run timing varies...Kings (usually) begin entering the Tanana in late june/early july with the run peaking (usually) sometime around the 3rd week of july...Chums follow next, spawning in august and on through september...There is a small run of Silvers beginning (usually)in mid/late september and finishing in late october... 3. The Tanana is a glacial, silty river that does not allow the fish to "see" the lure/bait setup...Hence, its not your best bet for bank fishing...While it IS possible, its better to find a clear-water stream entering the Tanana such as the Salcha or Chena rivers...Both support healthy, fishable populations of King and Chum...Silvers are best fished for in the Delta-Clearwater River near the small town of Delta Junction...
That all being said, Kings are still available in the Salcha and Chena rivers and will be until they are done spawning...Hope this clarifies things for you, good luck out there!
furkids_mom...JUST VISITED YOUR SITE FOR THE FIRST TIME AND I LOVE IT...IT MAKES ME WANT TO RUN OUT NOW AND PUT THE FORSALE SIGN UP ON THE HOUSE. THANK YOU FOR SHARING WITH US. HAVE A GREAT DAY.
Hello to everyone out there! i have confirmed my reservations and im moving to Fairbanks on the 11th of August! I can not wait to get there, my husband my 4 year old went there about 4 months ago and i really cant wait to see them too. i have been following this website for a very long time and thanks to all of u for the great advice and websites to look at! See ya soon
gerat websites love the pictures that others share Happy I found this site so I can learn about Alaska I don't want to miss a thing while we am there and I know we will. I will know some of the flowers and animals prior to getting there so I can share the wealth of knowledge that I have learned from this site You all are so shareing and make my day bright I read this daily and sometimes 4 or 5 times a day My favorite site
HELLO EVERYONE HAVE A GREAT DAY.. THANK SUSAN & FURMOM FOR YOUR SITE WAS GREAT JUST WISH I WOULD HAVE BEEN THERE TO HAVE SEEN EVERYTHING FOR MYSELF.. LIKE SO MANY OF YOU I LOVE FAIRBANKS.. HOPE TO BE SEEING YOU ON THIS SITE IN DECEMBER..SO GOOD LUCK TO ALL THAT ARE COMING HAVE THE GREATEST TIME EVER.. TO ALL THAT PUT WEB SITE ON I LOOK AT THEM ALL SO THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SITE THAT YOU SHARE.. HARRIETT P.S.TIMESHAREVON AS ALWAYS YOU ALWAYS OUT DO YOURSELF..
I'm in Fairbanks (up from Austin TX) for about a month. I need some local fishing information or tips. I have Tanana River access about 1 mile south of the Tanana and Chena River confluence. A couple of questions:
1) when the salmon run, will they run up the Tanana? 2) when they do run (silvers and kings), when does that happen? 3) is it possible to catch them on a spinning rod from the bank?
Susan @ furkids_mom. Great photography! You have a photojournalistic eye, one that I enjoyed while you took us through the big Rubber Duckie Day! Nice depth of field, great action shots, and good writing...a winning combination! For those of you who haven't checked it out yet, here is the link again: http://susanstevenson.com/blog/2008/07/g......
To TimeshareVon: Thanks SO much for your well-written reviews on the Arctic Circle tours. I was hoping a few others would weigh in, but your reviews are all I need to make a decision. After reading them, I'm thinking that making that trip during the winter when I'm visiting might be a better idea than now. I'd encourage anyone else, locals or visitors, to read TimeshareVon's post on these Arctic Circle trips from Fairbanks.
Thanks everyone! I enjoy writing about my life here in Fairbanks. I knew I was "home" soon after we arrived back in 2003. :) I try to keep my blog updated fairly regularly, so I hope you'll continue to stop by. ~Susan
I'm flying up to Fairbanks tonight for a week. Haven't been there in 3 years. Lived there from 1977-1996. So looking forward to seeing friends and the scenery! See you soon!
HI EVERYONE - WE ARE IN MINNESOTA FOR THE ANNUAL FAMILY REUNION. FOR ALL YOU MINNESOTANS, WE ARE AT THE ARCADIA RESORT, WHICH IS ABOUT 30 MILES NORTH OF GRAND RAPIDS. FRIDAY WE GO BACK TO HUGO (NEAR MINNEAPOLIS) TILL TUES. WHEN WE FLY BACK TO PASCO, WASHINGTON. SO GLAD I HAVE THE LAPTOP AND WIFI SO I CAN STILL CHECK IN ON THE WEB CAM. SUE GAGNER
Wildsteelhead: I agree about the silvers and Im hearing the run is starting...did you write the story you linked us to? it was great and has my head filled with visions of anchor point hehe..
Furkids_mom: you should be working for this newspaper because you have the skills and ability...Im inspired!
furkids_mom - opened your blog for the 1st time this morning. It's fantastic!! The photos, the stories, particularly about your journey from Jax to Alaska back in 2003. Wonderful writing. I added a shortcut to your blog on my desktop. I'll be stopping by frequently!
We're having gorgeous weather today! It's about time... the rain and clouds were starting to get to me. A good day to be outside - even if it's doing yard work. I hope these blue skies and sunshine stick around for awhile. ~Susan
I just made a blog entry about this past weekend's events. I attended the Golden Days Parade, a couple of WEIO (World Eskimo-Indian Olympics) events, the Rubber Duckie Race, the Red-Green Regatta, and then went to the Georgeson Botanical Gardens to see the flowers. There are a ton of photos and commentary, if you're interested in reading:
Boomer, it's been quite a few years but I did the one day Arctic Circle tour with Northern Alaska Tour Company (and I see they are still in business)....at that time they did a wonderful job.....it was a great trip. Hopefully there will be some other input.
Instead of spending at least 10 hours on the road each way it makes much more sense to spend those hours catching near-by fresh run silvers. An extremely fresh silver would be a good substitute!
Wildsteelhead: its funny you mention it, I was actually trying to hold my polarized fishing glasses over the cam lens but that didnt work out so well heh...so, no, unfortunately, I havnt any polarized filters... Truth to tell, I filmed that particular salmon vid on a fairly generic digital still cam with video capture capability...not the best tool certainly, but I did what I could with what was at hand...Im definitely NOT a videographer by any means...ahhh STEELHEAD, wish we had some of THOSE swimming the local waters...thanks for your thoughts and everyone else too!
I'll be in Fairbanks to visit family this week and next, and wondered if any of you locals know about bus tours to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks? I looked on the Internet and found several different companies and price options... wondered if any of you have any personal recommendations. If it won't work out this trip, I can always arrange it next time I'm there. Thanks so much... I check out the ArcticCam whenever I can... am looking forward to visiting again.
Thanks for the salmon video. I was glad to see that you did not let the difficulty of the challenge prevent you from taking and sharing the video. Have you ever tried polarized filters? They really have a remarkable ability to allow visual penetration into the water column by reducing the surface glare that you were fighting.
Kingfisher just looked at you site with the KING SALMON great site thank you very much looked at the rest of the site also..Thank you Have a great evening.. Harriett
Good afternoon, I'm so excited about landing in Fairbanks Friday afternoon...Fbks weather looks really nice compare to ours here in Kotzebue..AS of now we are at 41 and wont see near 60's till mid week...We get the ocean breeze so that makes it cooler...sure feels like fall time already and maybe it is for us here.You all take care and be safe when traveling...I will see my Three daughters on Firday at Pikes Landing.. Yogie
Joanne, very good comment, so pity this info came just after your dinner, otherwise you would be prepared to have a small chat with the 3 Venezuelan stooges....Well you were a little luckier than us that only can see them through web cams and pictures. If you keep logging in here you will know if they will show up again in miners web cam...Thanks for your comments, By the way Richard the tallest & biggest of the three is my brother...I will let them know your comment. Irmgard
We are leaving tonight for Fairbanks tonight. We are leaving from Pittsburgh,PA about a three hour drive from our home in West Virginia. Can't wait to arrive there again. The first time it was beautiful and cold with snow, so this will be a bit different. See you all in Fairbanks tomorrow afternoon.
Just want to say great video kingfisher I enjoyed it. Just a few more days till we we leave for Fairbanks, can't wait.The waether here is ever so hot, be glad to go to Fairbanks for a vist. I like to read all the comments people put on this site. Oh bye the way hi Billy
THANK YOU FOR SHARING THAT VIDEO KINGFISHER...ALL I CAN SAY IS "WOW" . HOPE I CAN GET THERE SOME DAY TO SEE IT FOR MYSELF. JUST HAVE TO GET MY HUSBAND TO TAKE ME THERE...WOULD HATE TO GO WITHOUT HIM!!!
KingFisher- I would love to view your video on YouTube but with my dial up internet connection, I am unable to watch it! I hope verizon soon gets high speed out my way. Have a great day! Jmailman1999
GOOD NORNING EVERYONE, JUST WANTED TO THANK YOU S0 MUCH KINGFISHER FOR THAT GREAT SITE MYSELF HAVE SEEN THE LIGHTS AND THEY'ER WONDERFUL TO WATCH WE TOOK LOTS OF PICTURES.. MY GRANDKIDS LOVE TO LOOK AT ALL OF THEM THEY ASK SO MANY GUESTIONS AND I TRY TO TELL THEM AS MUCH AS I CAN THEN I SHOW THEM THE WEB SITE FOR THEM TO LOOK AND STUDY..LIKE I SAID BEFORE I LOVE FAIRBANKS.. SO EVERYONE HAVE A GREAT DAY.. AND THANKS FOR ALL YOU COMMENTS..
Hi everyone! Have not been on here for several days. Been doing so much. I have worked harder the past several days than when I do when I work. Hope everyone had a great Golden Days celebration. I would like to congradulate the winner of the Duck race! Until next time, take care!
Venezuela: I just clicked on all the great photos on this Alaska-Venezuela trip website, and realized that we as tourists were on the very same dinner boat trip in Fairbanks on the Chena River on Friday night! They were seated at the table across from us. What a small world! They must have enjoyed the salmon and prime rib as much as we did! I'm sorry that we didn't meet them. joanne
ronrat: I saw this same phenomenon from Minnesota. The entire sky was red in the most memorable aurora that I have ever seen. Even in MN it was going beyond the apex of the sky, and the snow literally looked red when you looked out the living room window!
kingfisher- great job. also some nice stuff on that site. most of my yrs in alaska i have seen the northern ligts many times, but one most memorable was in 1956. the entire sky was covered with multi colors. most times it seemed to be mostly green. on this night it covered the sky like a circus tent, and lasted for several minutes.
Thanks Julie for helping me log in - Sacramento is about 85 today and sunny with a Wonderful breeze coming in from the Delta. Just know though, if I had my druthers, I'd be back in Fairbanks!
Dear all, thanks for your comments and follow up the web page. Janet, Richard already made the road tour from Venezuela to South America, Argentina, La Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego, lasted 6 months! I will inform you and others through this page, if they will show up again in this webcam...(returning from Prudhoe Bay) Spitrat, thanks also 4 yr comments. Hope you enjoy the link. your early comment opened us the idea to follow commenting, thanks for it!
Wow Venezuela - Now that's what I call a road trip. I'd say it's the trip of a lifetime, but I have the feeling these bikers will probably do the whole world! Amazing photos. (Tiny note: The photo titled "Hiroshima monument" on page 2 of Washington, D.C. is actually the statue that commemorates the raising of the US flag on the island of Iwo Jima during WWII. It honors the Marine Corp.) Wishing the bikers safe journey and good adventures. I'll be watching the site for new photos. Janet
Hey Venezuala- I saw the guys and their flag; I just couldn't place the country the flag represented. I captured the artic cam photo a few times as I watched them last night. Fun! Thanks for the link.
very good time to take advantage and take some pictures... Richard (my brother) Mario and Rainer keep on kicking the off road...see you when coming back from Prudhoe Bay.
To the venezuelean adventure team; Richard, Mario and Rainer Nice to see all three of you together. Keep exploring and showing the venezuelean flag. From Miami, Fl Erick and Jessy
The day started off overcast and drizzly, but the sun made an appearance and it warmed up nicely for the parade and the Rubber Duckie Race. It turned out to be a lovely day!
Hope you all have fun at the parade today.....just wishing that I was there for it once again! It's another scorching 90something hot & humid day again here in Jersey.....Really wish I was there.....LOL
Happy parade day Fairbanks!! Looks like you're all gonna need a jacket today. Won't be needing one here in CO - 95 today - SO hot!! Good luck everyone on the duckie race! Wish I was there! - Joy
when i first came to alaska i didn't do any studying about the place beforehand at all. i was in college (19 years old in 1979), ran out of money, was being evicted from my apartment in bellingham washington and at the same time was coincindently offered a job on a floating processor sailing from tacoma to kodiak. i knew nothing of alaska. but i fell in love with the place at first sight and vowed to make it my permanent home. that was january of 1980. it is now 2008 and i'm still here.
Sherbear, thanks for the info. The last time I saw Mario was in the summer of 2003. Glad to hear he is still around (sort of).
I lived in Fairbanks for over forty years, now I'm in Veracruz Mexico, warm (or should I say HOT) year around. If you run into Mario, tell him I'm looking for him. THANKS marlo in Veracruz
Moving to Alaska involves the same thing moving anywhere involves. Planning, planning, planning. Most important is job skills. It is tougher to get them in Alaska than elsewhere, but not impossible.
I was born in Alaska (Fairbanks) and moved to the states after 30 years here. I made sure I had some savings to live on, made sure my resume was as complete as i could make it with current referrals and started an organized job hunt. It took some time and adjustment, but I made it. Then i had the choice to come back. I took it. Not richer in $$, but richer for the experience.
GOOD MORNING EVERONE, JUST WANTED TO START MY DAY BY SAYING HELLO AND HAVE A GREAT DAY AT THE DUCK RACE AND EVRYTHING ELSE THAT IS GOING ON THERE TODAY..HARRIETT PS. TESSA I JUST KNOW WHAT PEOPLE HAVE SAID WHRN I WAS THEIR IN DECEMBER THAT ITS THE GREATEST PLACE TO RAISE A FAMILY CAN'T TALK FOR EVERYONE SO JUST CHECK REAL GOOD..
Tessa,I love Ak. and am planning to move there when I retire. I have family there and it will make it eaiser to know someone. I could have transfered with my job years ago, but life got in the way. My feeling has alway been, if you want it to work it will. North Fairbanks is where I plan to settle, but the last time I was there,there was nothing there. Alaska is unforgiving to the unprepared. Thaere is assistance, but how long can you stay on it?? I live in the Cleveland area, There is no place that isn't feeling an economic crunch. If it dosen't work out, make sure you have a back up plan. Good luck. Karen
Sherbear- Some people think other people don't do their research before making the big move. I will not point fingers. You know who after reading the blogs. The truth is some people do not study what they are getting into while other people (like myself) have studied and know what they are getting into. I want that challenge. However, that is no reason for these people to get on other peoples cases over the issue. Of course I don't know all there is to know about the las frontier but I want to learn as I go. But I have learned just to keep my mouth shut otherwise some people get bent out of shape on here. As far as PA, I will agree with you about the guns going off but thats all the more I am going to say. And you more than likely know why!
Hi Everyone! I'm thinking about moving to the Fairbanks area with my 2 young boys by next summer (I'm a single mom). Alaksa is a place that I have always wanted to live and I think its time....I've been reading all the comments on here for about a year...Could someone please tell me what areas are good to raise a family and how are the school systems? Any advice would be helpful..'Hope all of you have a nice weekend!
I wasn't sure how much I could type, but I wanted to continue my story for ENDOFTHEROAD.
I couldn't have moved here without help. Michigan state has gotten so bad, even the government has threatened to shut down. I went from a middle class business person to a struggling single mom. Fortunately I found someone to help me move here. It was very hard! I wouldn't have done it without the assistance. Having children made it even harder to work, the less I made the more assistance I would get, it would have been easier to stay on it, but they are cutting back, even Alaska is feeling the economy. I'm just glad I'm a hard working person that hates to take a handout.
My friends in Michigan keep asking me about moving here to get work. I tell them, the pay is half what they could make there and the expenses are 50% more on the dollar. The one thing I miss is the fresh produce. It's hard to get here, this may be a small world, but shipping is a big deal, it costs money to get things to Alaska and the Alaskans PAY!
Get a clue, Watch tougher in Alaska, the little facts and blurbs that pop up on the screen will give you an idea, it's not a piece of cake to live here. You have to be a certain type of person. Definitely not a city person, that's for sure.
I just read the last few days of comments. That's some pretty serious stuff.
I missed the whole PA thing, but I tell you what... I stayed by the docks in Camden, PA, sister city to Camden, NJ. I thought Detroit was bad. Gunshots going off all the time, and let me tell you it's not from a nearby rifle range that's for sure. I ended up sick when I was there and had to go to the hospital. I asked at the hotel where to go. They were stunned, they weren't quite sure what to say, but one said if I had good insurance to go a few blocks down the road and around the bend, huh! To my surprise it was like Detroit and neighboring Grosse Pointe, slums to mansions. The hospital I found would put a 5 star resort to shame!
All places are pretty similar. The same with Fairbanks, within it's 7 square miles, they have the mansions on the hill and the slums in the city. I'm a city girl, from Detroit, I always wanted to live in Alaska. It's much easier now, I could imagine what it would have been like even 10 years ago.
Haven't logged in, in forever, but stopped by and seen a few comments.
We will be at the Parade tomorrow, rain or shine we wouldn't miss it, oh no I still didn't get my duckies yet!
Marlo - I know Mario, he is moving the restaurant back to the original location on 3rd. He's not quite sure when, I think he's just taking a brief vacation for now (Summer, ya know).
All you in Fbks going to the big parade tomorrow? Wish we could watch it online. We always enjoyed the parade and the duckie race afterwards. This will be our 3rd year not being there :( In CO now after 34 years in Fbks. Hope it doesn't rain for the parade. Have a good weekend all!!
There was a Mexican restaurant, THE HOT TAMALE, close to the BIG I. does anyone know if it moved or closed? would like to get in touch with my old friend MARIO. Marlo Miller Veracruz, Mexico
Soldiermom - Small world. I thought my husband would never retire. Thought he'd actually die in the classroom. He LOVES teaching. After the 2005 Iditarod when we could only take 5 days because of his teaching, he started to think about retiring. He REALLY misses the kids, but many stay in touch. I'm not surprised '00 remembers much of what they did. My husband certainly related to the kids and tried to serve their interests not his interests or the school's agenda. His retirement did free us up to spend 3 weeks in Alaska for each of the 2006 & 2007 Iditarods. We were able to follow the race with bush planes and stay with locals at some of the checkpoints. Anvik, Grayling, Galena and Nome are no longer just names on the race route. Planning will start soon for the 2009 trip. He's currently in Belarus for a month doing his annual 2nd century archaeology dig. I'm looking at the temps here and in Fairbanks and liking their weather today better than ours. Our malamute has been like a throw rug spread out on the hardwood floor trying to be cool. Hi to all the Artic Cam Viewers from Pennsylvania.
I saw a couple of folks waving at the cam. Hope you are are having a nice day...I'm here at work and the company is having a picnic as I type..Rain or shine we always have our yearly picnic...51 and a chance of rain here at Kotzebue...have a good safe weekend! Yogie
WISH I WAS IN FAIRBANKS TODAY...90 HERE IN MA. I REALLY REALLY HATE IT HERE AND I DON'T BELONG HERE...JUST WANT TO MOVE TO ALASKA WITH MY DOGS...HOPEFULLY SOMEDAY SOON. PS. DIESEL FUEL IS $4.98 PER GALLON GOING TO BE EXPENSIVE HEADING UP TO THE MOUNTAINS IN NH. THIS WEEKEND TO OUR PROPERTY!!!!
Mahoney- Congradulations on the BIG move! I hope fairbanks brings you and your family much happiness. Hope to get there someday myself! Where is Peach Bottom, PA located? I live in Clymer, PA in Indiana County about 80 miles North East of Pittsburgh. Have a great day!
Good Morning all! Just got home from work. I don't have to work my second job today due to the excessive heat! I am going to take a little nap, get a hair cut this afternoon and work on my magazine business. I have alot of updating to do so that will keep me busy and out of trouble! Have a great day!
GOOD MORNING EVERYONE,JUST WANTED TO SAY HAVE A GREAT DAY. AND THE ONES THAT IS TRAVELING BE SAFE. LIKE I SAID BEFORE WISH IT WERE ME.. THATS OK I WILL BE SEEING YOU IN DECEMBER..SO GOD BLESS AND ENJOY THE DAY AND BE GLAD SOMEONE ARE HAVE THE TIME OF THEIR LIFE.. HARRIETT
I appreciate the Arctic cam as Iowa is a long ways south. It is nice to able to see what it looks like there. My daughter just moved to Fairbanks and I'm looking forward to my cahnce to visit her there.
Hey All, We made it to Eielson this afternoon. I know we will be going to Fairbanks tomorrow to pick up my car. I don't know how much exploring we will be doing then though. I'm sure over the weekend we will be doing some.
Right now after almost 2 weeks of traveling we are ready for some down time and the kids just want to get outside and play. Unfortunately we have business to attend to tomorrow so it will have to wait another day.
Just four more days and we will be arriving in Fairbanks, can't wait. We told our children we were going to look for a house and stay. You should have heard the uproar. We loved the time we spent there, my husband spent 6 years while I spent 2 1/2 years give or take a few months. One thing I found out though is if you want to live there start when you are young. Fairbanks offers a lot and we loved it, but as someone else said on here that it can be a hard life. I am a great cold and snow lover so I was in my element. Loved the summers also. But some of my favorite memories were driving over the ice instead of the bridge and watching the dog races on the river. I guess I pretty much dated myself by that last comment, but it was fun driving over the ice all winter until the first truck went through and the fun was over till the next winter.
Justin - You have to love the fact that in America we can have discussions that allow dissenting points of view and frank and open dialogue. Sorry if I was snippy in my first post today, but like you I would rather tell someone how I am feeling or perceiving their words or actions than to go behind their back or stay silent and fuming. I think we all learned a lot today by sharing our points of view. The bond is still strong ---that, for whatever reason/s, we all love Alaska. Sleep well and always dare to dream. Janet
Well ArcticCam Viewers, I am turning in for the night (9:50 in PA.) I hope everyone has a great evening. I hope I didn't make anyone mad today with my comments but you have to understand that I am one of those who will speak my mind and not lie. That is something most people do like about me because most people will lie to spare ones feelings and so they don't upset that person. But I believe in only telling the truth and I was always taught to stand up for myself. I am glad that I got to know two people from North Pole otherwise I may have had mixed feelings about Alaskans after todays discussions. I just didn't expect the treatments I got today BUT I do respect everyones opinions. Thats the nice thing about America! Good night all. Justin.
Some_Guy- Your comment was very well said in my opinion! No matter where you go, you will have clean parts and dirty parts, nice people and rude people. Glad you voiced you opinion in a nice manner!
every city has a "clean" side and a "dirty" side -and a "south" side or a "west" side. - the store fronts can be clean with flowers all around, but behind every one is a dumpster with goo oozing out and seagulls or ravens scouring the area for pizza or french fries.
Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.
I LOVE the miles of manicured riverfront that run through the heart of Fairbanks!
I HATE the piles of cigarette butts that pile up at every intersection with a stoplight.
mama_sibe- Very well said. I completely understand what they are saying. I am sure that there are people who don't research their new home until its to late but it is not me! Have a great evening!
Endofthe road>>thanks,for giving us n alternative/different view of Alaska!! (can anyone post me these images that endoftheroad described??..the "dirty"fairbanks downtown,or perhaps the real face of Fairbanks???).
endotheroad - I don't think your comments were aimed specifically at me but bear commenting on. I heartily agree with you that it is very different visiting some place and living there. Everyone that I have told has asked if I have visited or wouldn't it be better to visit first to see if we like it? My answer is that other than financial restraints, the fact is, you can deal with anything for a week or two and especially with Alaska, if you visit during the warmer months, of course, everyone would love to live there!! My husband had actually wanted to move way before me and at the time our children were too young, in my opinion, to adjust to that type of dramatic change in their lives. When I came on board for the move, we did extensive research. Everyone asks me if we've taken into consideration the bad things about living in Fairbanks like the severe cold in the winter, hardships due to weather, differences in the cost of living, mosquitos in spring/summer, and of course, light all day and dark all day. I tell them yes, we are aware of all of those things and we are making this move with our eyes and minds open. We know that we will have to work hard to make ends meet, just like here. We know we will face depression in the winter from the darkness and sleep deprivation in the summer from the light. And Florida would probably come in right behind Alaska when it comes to mosquitos! Other than size, that is. Everything is bigger in Alaska! Yes, it is our idea of heaven because the idea of living so close to nature fills our hearts and minds with peace. But I think the real reason we want to move there is because my husband and I believe we have a true pioneering spirit. Are we moving with the mind set that this is it and no other place on earth would make us happy? No, we are moving with the mind set that if we get up there and stick it out through a couple of winters, and we're all miserable, we'll find somewhere else to live in the lower 48. Just not Florida and no more big city living for us. I hear the strains of Green Acres running through my head :-)
For those considering a trip to Alaska, you may want to connect with others interested in travel to or living up in Alaska on Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g28... . I have found their forums to be an outstanding exchange of quality information, especially for those of us coming up from the lower 48 :)
Von
Glad to help Boomer. I enjoy writing about travel almost as much as I enjoy the travel :)
And as for the winter trips to Fairbanks, I'm a huge fan . . . and only too sorry that my work schedule in March 09 will keep me way. But I will be back in 2010 for the ONAC and everything else that is going on up there in March!
Von
Good morning Arctic cam viewers,
It's wed morning and looking forward to be at Fairbanks friday afternoon. Our weather here in Kotzebue is really nice this morning. The ocean is really calm this morning and it's a great day for salmon fishing...which allot of folks are doing right now...
You all take care and be safe with your travels..:)
~Yogie~
furkids_mom, just viewed your site....FANTASTIC! May I ask what type of camera you are using? My husband and I are in the market for a new camera and like the pictures on your site. We were in AK in May/June.....got wonderful pictures except for distance shots. Any suggestions you might have would be appreciated. Thanks.
Good Morning Arctic Cammers!
Hope this misty morning finds everyone well and happy...
Our garden seems to be weathering the cool weather OK, but I dont think our yield will be as much as last year, especially my prized and coveted cucumbers...
Markg454: Welcome to our fair city on the banks! answers to your questions in order:
1. Yes...The Tanana supports a fair run of King and Chum and a lesser run of Silvers...
2. Run timing varies...Kings (usually) begin entering the Tanana in late june/early july with the run peaking (usually) sometime around the 3rd week of july...Chums follow next, spawning in august and on through september...There is a small run of Silvers beginning (usually)in mid/late september and finishing in late october...
3. The Tanana is a glacial, silty river that does not allow the fish to "see" the lure/bait setup...Hence, its not your best bet for bank fishing...While it IS possible, its better to find a clear-water stream entering the Tanana such as the Salcha or Chena rivers...Both support healthy, fishable populations of King and Chum...Silvers are best fished for in the Delta-Clearwater River near the small town of Delta Junction...
That all being said, Kings are still available in the Salcha and Chena rivers and will be until they are done spawning...Hope this clarifies things for you, good luck out there!
furkids_mom...JUST VISITED YOUR SITE FOR THE FIRST TIME AND I LOVE IT...IT MAKES ME WANT TO RUN OUT NOW AND PUT THE FORSALE SIGN UP ON THE HOUSE. THANK YOU FOR SHARING WITH US. HAVE A GREAT DAY.
Hello to everyone out there! i have confirmed my reservations and im moving to Fairbanks on the 11th of August! I can not wait to get there, my husband my 4 year old went there about 4 months ago and i really cant wait to see them too. i have been following this website for a very long time and thanks to all of u for the great advice and websites to look at! See ya soon
gerat websites love the pictures that others share
Happy I found this site so I can learn about Alaska
I don't want to miss a thing while we am there and I know we will. I
will know some of the flowers and animals prior to getting there so I can share the wealth of knowledge that I have learned from this site
You all are so shareing and make my day bright
I read this daily and sometimes 4 or 5 times a day
My favorite site
El
HELLO EVERYONE HAVE A GREAT DAY.. THANK SUSAN & FURMOM FOR YOUR SITE WAS GREAT JUST WISH I WOULD HAVE BEEN THERE TO HAVE SEEN EVERYTHING FOR MYSELF.. LIKE SO MANY OF YOU I LOVE FAIRBANKS.. HOPE TO BE SEEING YOU ON THIS SITE IN DECEMBER..SO GOOD LUCK TO ALL THAT ARE COMING HAVE THE GREATEST TIME EVER.. TO ALL THAT PUT WEB SITE ON I LOOK AT THEM ALL SO THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SITE THAT YOU SHARE.. HARRIETT P.S.TIMESHAREVON AS ALWAYS YOU ALWAYS OUT DO YOURSELF..
I'm in Fairbanks (up from Austin TX) for about a month. I need some local fishing information or tips. I have Tanana River access about 1 mile south of the Tanana and Chena River confluence. A couple of questions:
1) when the salmon run, will they run up the Tanana?
2) when they do run (silvers and kings), when does that happen?
3) is it possible to catch them on a spinning rod from the bank?
Thanks in advance!
Susan @ furkids_mom. Great photography! You have a photojournalistic eye, one that I enjoyed while you took us through the big Rubber Duckie Day! Nice depth of field, great action shots, and good writing...a winning combination! For those of you who haven't checked it out yet, here is the link again: http://susanstevenson.com/blog/2008/07/g......
To TimeshareVon: Thanks SO much for your well-written reviews on the Arctic Circle tours. I was hoping a few others would weigh in, but your reviews are all I need to make a decision. After reading them, I'm thinking that making that trip during the winter when I'm visiting might be a better idea than now. I'd encourage anyone else, locals or visitors, to read TimeshareVon's post on these Arctic Circle trips from Fairbanks.
from Boomer in Atlanta
Thanks everyone! I enjoy writing about my life here in Fairbanks. I knew I was "home" soon after we arrived back in 2003. :) I try to keep my blog updated fairly regularly, so I hope you'll continue to stop by. ~Susan
I'm flying up to Fairbanks tonight for a week. Haven't been there in 3 years. Lived there from 1977-1996. So looking forward to seeing friends and the scenery! See you soon!
HI EVERYONE - WE ARE IN MINNESOTA FOR THE ANNUAL FAMILY REUNION. FOR ALL YOU MINNESOTANS, WE ARE AT THE ARCADIA RESORT, WHICH IS ABOUT 30 MILES NORTH OF GRAND RAPIDS. FRIDAY WE GO BACK TO HUGO (NEAR MINNEAPOLIS) TILL TUES. WHEN WE FLY BACK TO PASCO, WASHINGTON. SO GLAD I HAVE THE LAPTOP AND WIFI SO I CAN STILL CHECK IN ON THE WEB CAM.
SUE GAGNER
Good Afternoon Arctic Cammers!
I swear, is summer over already?
Wildsteelhead: I agree about the silvers and Im hearing the run is starting...did you write the story you linked us to? it was great and has my head filled with visions of anchor point hehe..
Furkids_mom: you should be working for this newspaper because you have the skills and ability...Im inspired!
furkids_mom - opened your blog for the 1st time this morning. It's fantastic!! The photos, the stories, particularly about your journey from Jax to Alaska back in 2003. Wonderful writing. I added a shortcut to your blog on my desktop. I'll be stopping by frequently!
We're having gorgeous weather today! It's about time... the rain and clouds were starting to get to me. A good day to be outside - even if it's doing yard work. I hope these blue skies and sunshine stick around for awhile. ~Susan
All the webcam viewers must be sleeping in this AM!! Looks like a nice cool and sunny day up there!
I Believe Sherbear, Mel & The Others Are At The Fudgepot Now. I Was Just In Charge Of The Webcam Pics... Bye!
http://www.festivalfairbanks.org/webcam1...
Hi Everyone !!! We're Off To The Festival Cam! Sherbear & Mel
I see 6 people by the fence waving to the viewers. Hi there!!
Boomer,
I've done the Arctic Circle drive tour twice, with two different companies: Alaskan Arctic Turtle and Northern Alaska Tour Company.
Here are links to reviews of each:
http://www.igougo.com/review-r1346128-Al...
http://www.igougo.com/journal-j65220-Fai...
Von
I just made a blog entry about this past weekend's events. I attended the Golden Days Parade, a couple of WEIO (World Eskimo-Indian Olympics) events, the Rubber Duckie Race, the Red-Green Regatta, and then went to the Georgeson Botanical Gardens to see the flowers. There are a ton of photos and commentary, if you're interested in reading:
http://susanstevenson.com/blog/2008/07/g...
~Susan
Boomer, it's been quite a few years but I did the one day Arctic Circle tour with Northern Alaska Tour Company (and I see they are still in business)....at that time they did a wonderful job.....it was a great trip. Hopefully there will be some other input.
KingFisher,
The Anchor River on the Kenai Peninsula has a steelhead run (possibly two), but that has got to be close to 500 miles away from you:
http://www.mgfalaska.com/fire_ice.html
Instead of spending at least 10 hours on the road each way it makes much more sense to spend those hours catching near-by fresh run silvers. An extremely fresh silver would be a good substitute!
Wildsteelhead: its funny you mention it, I was actually trying to hold my polarized fishing glasses over the cam lens but that didnt work out so well heh...so, no, unfortunately, I havnt any polarized filters... Truth to tell, I filmed that particular salmon vid on a fairly generic digital still cam with video capture capability...not the best tool certainly, but I did what I could with what was at hand...Im definitely NOT a videographer by any means...ahhh STEELHEAD, wish we had some of THOSE swimming the local waters...thanks for your thoughts and everyone else too!
I'll be in Fairbanks to visit family this week and next, and wondered if any of you locals know about bus tours to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks? I looked on the Internet and found several different companies and price options... wondered if any of you have any personal recommendations. If it won't work out this trip, I can always arrange it next time I'm there. Thanks so much... I check out the ArcticCam whenever I can... am looking forward to visiting again.
Kingfisher,
Thanks for the salmon video. I was glad to see that you did not let the difficulty of the challenge prevent you from taking and sharing the video. Have you ever tried polarized filters? They really have a remarkable ability to allow visual penetration into the water column by reducing the surface glare that you were fighting.
And that was an interesting choice of music!
Kingfisher just looked at you site with the KING SALMON great site thank you very much looked at the rest of the site also..Thank you Have a great evening.. Harriett
Good afternoon,
I'm so excited about landing in Fairbanks Friday afternoon...Fbks weather looks really nice compare to ours here in Kotzebue..AS of now we are at 41 and wont see near 60's till mid week...We get the ocean breeze so that makes it cooler...sure feels like fall time already and maybe it is for us here.You all take care and be safe when traveling...I will see my Three daughters on Firday at Pikes Landing..
Yogie
Good Afternoon Arctic Cammers!
Thanks for the kind comments on the Aurora vid...
The annual Chena River King Salmon run is peaking as we type so I wandered up to a favorite fishing hole the other night and made this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6tyle3gV...
Unfortunately, our short summer is waning and I havnt completed but perhaps 1/2 of my summer to-do list...just as well, its the same every year...
Have a great day folks!
Joanne, very good comment, so pity this info came just after your dinner, otherwise you would be prepared to have a small chat with the 3 Venezuelan stooges....Well you were a little luckier than us that only can see them through web cams and pictures. If you keep logging in here you will know if they will show up again in miners web cam...Thanks for your comments,
By the way Richard the tallest & biggest of the three is my brother...I will let them know your comment.
Irmgard
Good job on the video Kingfisher....
I only remember 2, maybe 3 times when we were blessed with seeing a mutli colored sky....it was definitely very cool.
Safe trip to you shipman.....
We are leaving tonight for Fairbanks tonight. We are leaving from Pittsburgh,PA about a three hour drive from our home in West Virginia. Can't wait to arrive there again. The first time it was beautiful and cold with snow, so this will be a bit different. See you all in Fairbanks tomorrow afternoon.
Just want to say great video kingfisher I enjoyed it. Just a few more days till we we leave for Fairbanks, can't wait.The waether here is ever so hot, be glad to go to Fairbanks for a vist. I like to read all the comments people put on this site. Oh bye the way hi Billy
THANK YOU FOR SHARING THAT VIDEO KINGFISHER...ALL I CAN SAY IS "WOW" . HOPE I CAN GET THERE SOME DAY TO SEE IT FOR MYSELF. JUST HAVE TO GET MY HUSBAND TO TAKE ME THERE...WOULD HATE TO GO WITHOUT HIM!!!
KingFisher- I would love to view your video on YouTube but with my dial up internet connection, I am unable to watch it! I hope verizon soon gets high speed out my way. Have a great day! Jmailman1999
GOOD NORNING EVERYONE, JUST WANTED TO THANK YOU S0 MUCH KINGFISHER FOR THAT GREAT SITE MYSELF HAVE SEEN THE LIGHTS AND THEY'ER WONDERFUL TO WATCH WE TOOK LOTS OF PICTURES.. MY GRANDKIDS LOVE TO LOOK AT ALL OF THEM THEY ASK SO MANY GUESTIONS AND I TRY TO TELL THEM AS MUCH AS I CAN THEN I SHOW THEM THE WEB SITE FOR THEM TO LOOK AND STUDY..LIKE I SAID BEFORE I LOVE FAIRBANKS.. SO EVERYONE HAVE A GREAT DAY.. AND THANKS FOR ALL YOU COMMENTS..
Hi everyone! Have not been on here for several days. Been doing so much. I have worked harder the past several days than when I do when I work. Hope everyone had a great Golden Days celebration. I would like to congradulate the winner of the Duck race! Until next time, take care!
Venezuela: I just clicked on all the great photos on this Alaska-Venezuela trip website, and realized that we as tourists were on the very same dinner boat trip in Fairbanks on the Chena River on Friday night! They were seated at the table across from us. What a small world! They must have enjoyed the salmon and prime rib as much as we did! I'm sorry that we didn't meet them. joanne
ronrat: I saw this same phenomenon from Minnesota. The entire sky was red in the most memorable aurora that I have ever seen. Even in MN it was going beyond the apex of the sky, and the snow literally looked red when you looked out the living room window!
kingfisher- great job. also some nice stuff on that site. most of my yrs in alaska i have seen the northern ligts many times, but one most memorable was in 1956. the entire sky was covered with multi colors. most times it seemed to be mostly green. on this night it covered the sky like a circus tent, and lasted for several minutes.
love the web site Kingfisher thanks for shareing
Good Evening Arctic Cammers!
Had a great, if a little rainy, Golden Days weekend...
I recently posted a very fascinating video on the Aurora,
please feel free to rate and comment, I would appreciate the input...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkD4t92Mk...
Thanks and enjoy the rest of the weekend everyone!
Well, hello to the couple out in front of the artic cam!!!
Looks like they were dancing or something.....
Thanks Julie for helping me log in - Sacramento is about 85 today and sunny with a Wonderful breeze coming in from the Delta. Just know though, if I had my druthers, I'd be back in Fairbanks!
Dear all, thanks for your comments and follow up the web page. Janet, Richard already made the road tour from Venezuela to South America, Argentina, La Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego, lasted 6 months!
I will inform you and others through this page, if they will show up again in this webcam...(returning from Prudhoe Bay)
Spitrat, thanks also 4 yr comments. Hope you enjoy the link.
your early comment opened us the idea to follow commenting, thanks for it!
Best regards
Irmgard
(Venezuela)
Wow Venezuela - Now that's what I call a road trip. I'd say it's the trip of a lifetime, but I have the feeling these bikers will probably do the whole world! Amazing photos. (Tiny note: The photo titled "Hiroshima monument" on page 2 of Washington, D.C. is actually the statue that commemorates the raising of the US flag on the island of Iwo Jima during WWII. It honors the Marine Corp.) Wishing the bikers safe journey and good adventures. I'll be watching the site for new photos.
Janet
Hey Venezuala- I saw the guys and their flag; I just couldn't place the country the flag represented. I captured the artic cam photo a few times as I watched them last night. Fun! Thanks for the link.
>>>Venezuela>>great photos to this site!will be also ,new ones from Coldfoot\deadhorse??
very good time to take advantage and take some pictures...
Richard (my brother) Mario and Rainer keep on kicking the off road...see you when coming back from Prudhoe Bay.
Follow the riders on the web page www.venezuela-alaska.com
Best wishes
Irmgard Brandt
To the venezuelean adventure team; Richard, Mario and Rainer
Nice to see all three of you together. Keep exploring and showing the venezuelean flag. From Miami, Fl Erick and Jessy
Hey Bikers!! Hope the ridin' is good!
What a Great Day for the Parade!!!! Wish me luck on the Duckies!!
I LOVE Fairbanks! Can't wait for the Regatta tomorrow.
The day started off overcast and drizzly, but the sun made an appearance and it warmed up nicely for the parade and the Rubber Duckie Race. It turned out to be a lovely day!
We will post the results of the Rubber Duckie race on the home page of newsminer.com the second we get them.
Would someone please post the winning ducky number after the race.
Thanks,
Margie
Hope you all have fun at the parade today.....just wishing that I was there for it once again!
It's another scorching 90something hot & humid day again here in Jersey.....Really wish I was there.....LOL
Whoo - hoo - the parade! Loved that in Fbks! :)
Enjoy - Fairbanks!
Happy parade day Fairbanks!! Looks like you're all gonna need a jacket today. Won't be needing one here in CO - 95 today - SO hot!! Good luck everyone on the duckie race! Wish I was there! - Joy
Well the big duck is gone and the parking lot tent is down. Now all the action is over at the webcam across the river. Here’s the link:
http://www.123-cams.com/live-webcam.php?...
when i first came to alaska i didn't do any studying about the place beforehand at all. i was in college (19 years old in 1979), ran out of money, was being evicted from my apartment in bellingham washington and at the same time was coincindently offered a job on a floating processor sailing from tacoma to kodiak. i knew nothing of alaska. but i fell in love with the place at first sight and vowed to make it my permanent home. that was january of 1980. it is now 2008 and i'm still here.
Sherbear, thanks for the info. The last time I saw Mario was in the summer of 2003. Glad to hear he is still around (sort of).
I lived in Fairbanks for over forty years, now I'm in Veracruz Mexico, warm (or should I say HOT) year around.
If you run into Mario, tell him I'm looking for him.
THANKS
marlo in Veracruz
One further thought. It makes sense to start the job hunt from where you are now.
PS. As for fresh produce, it's all around you. We picked berries and preserved them. An apple, orange, banana was an indescribable treat.
Moving to Alaska involves the same thing moving anywhere involves. Planning, planning, planning. Most important is job skills. It is tougher to get them in Alaska than elsewhere, but not impossible.
I was born in Alaska (Fairbanks) and moved to the states after 30 years here. I made sure I had some savings to live on, made sure my resume was as complete as i could make it with current referrals and started an organized job hunt. It took some time and adjustment, but I made it. Then i had the choice to come back. I took it. Not richer in $$, but richer for the experience.
GOOD MORNING EVERONE, JUST WANTED TO START MY DAY BY SAYING HELLO AND HAVE A GREAT DAY AT THE DUCK RACE AND EVRYTHING ELSE THAT IS GOING ON THERE TODAY..HARRIETT PS. TESSA I JUST KNOW WHAT PEOPLE HAVE SAID WHRN I WAS THEIR IN DECEMBER THAT ITS THE GREATEST PLACE TO RAISE A FAMILY CAN'T TALK FOR EVERYONE SO JUST CHECK REAL GOOD..
Tessa,I love Ak. and am planning to move there when I retire. I have family there and it will make it eaiser to know someone. I could have transfered with my job years ago, but life got in the way. My feeling has alway been, if you want it to work it will. North Fairbanks is where I plan to settle, but the last time I was there,there was nothing there. Alaska is unforgiving to the unprepared. Thaere is assistance, but how long can you stay on it?? I live in the Cleveland area, There is no place that isn't feeling an economic crunch. If it dosen't work out, make sure you have a back up plan. Good luck. Karen
Sherbear- Some people think other people don't do their research before making the big move. I will not point fingers. You know who after reading the blogs. The truth is some people do not study what they are getting into while other people (like myself) have studied and know what they are getting into. I want that challenge. However, that is no reason for these people to get on other peoples cases over the issue. Of course I don't know all there is to know about the las frontier but I want to learn as I go. But I have learned just to keep my mouth shut otherwise some people get bent out of shape on here. As far as PA, I will agree with you about the guns going off but thats all the more I am going to say. And you more than likely know why!
Hi Everyone! I'm thinking about moving to the Fairbanks area with my 2 young boys by next summer (I'm a single mom). Alaksa is a place that I have always wanted to live and I think its time....I've been reading all the comments on here for about a year...Could someone please tell me what areas are good to raise a family and how are the school systems? Any advice would be helpful..'Hope all of you have a nice weekend!
I wasn't sure how much I could type, but I wanted to continue my story for ENDOFTHEROAD.
I couldn't have moved here without help. Michigan state has gotten so bad, even the government has threatened to shut down. I went from a middle class business person to a struggling single mom. Fortunately I found someone to help me move here. It was very hard! I wouldn't have done it without the assistance. Having children made it even harder to work, the less I made the more assistance I would get, it would have been easier to stay on it, but they are cutting back, even Alaska is feeling the economy. I'm just glad I'm a hard working person that hates to take a handout.
My friends in Michigan keep asking me about moving here to get work. I tell them, the pay is half what they could make there and the expenses are 50% more on the dollar. The one thing I miss is the fresh produce. It's hard to get here, this may be a small world, but shipping is a big deal, it costs money to get things to Alaska and the Alaskans PAY!
Get a clue, Watch tougher in Alaska, the little facts and blurbs that pop up on the screen will give you an idea, it's not a piece of cake to live here. You have to be a certain type of person. Definitely not a city person, that's for sure.
WOW!!!
I just read the last few days of comments. That's some pretty serious stuff.
I missed the whole PA thing, but I tell you what... I stayed by the docks in Camden, PA, sister city to Camden, NJ. I thought Detroit was bad. Gunshots going off all the time, and let me tell you it's not from a nearby rifle range that's for sure. I ended up sick when I was there and had to go to the hospital. I asked at the hotel where to go. They were stunned, they weren't quite sure what to say, but one said if I had good insurance to go a few blocks down the road and around the bend, huh! To my surprise it was like Detroit and neighboring Grosse Pointe, slums to mansions. The hospital I found would put a 5 star resort to shame!
All places are pretty similar. The same with Fairbanks, within it's 7 square miles, they have the mansions on the hill and the slums in the city. I'm a city girl, from Detroit, I always wanted to live in Alaska. It's much easier now, I could imagine what it would have been like even 10 years ago.
Haven't logged in, in forever, but stopped by and seen a few comments.
We will be at the Parade tomorrow, rain or shine we wouldn't miss it, oh no I still didn't get my duckies yet!
Marlo - I know Mario, he is moving the restaurant back to the original location on 3rd. He's not quite sure when, I think he's just taking a brief vacation for now (Summer, ya know).
Wow...looks like they're taking down the party tent over there at the Big I.
All you in Fbks going to the big parade tomorrow? Wish we could watch it online. We always enjoyed the parade and the duckie race afterwards. This will be our 3rd year not being there :( In CO now after 34 years in Fbks. Hope it doesn't rain for the parade. Have a good weekend all!!
There was a Mexican restaurant, THE HOT TAMALE, close to the BIG I.
does anyone know if it moved or closed? would like to get in touch with my old friend MARIO.
Marlo Miller
Veracruz, Mexico
Soldiermom - Small world. I thought my husband would never retire. Thought he'd actually die in the classroom. He LOVES teaching. After the 2005 Iditarod when we could only take 5 days because of his teaching, he started to think about retiring. He REALLY misses the kids, but many stay in touch. I'm not surprised '00 remembers much of what they did. My husband certainly related to the kids and tried to serve their interests not his interests or the school's agenda. His retirement did free us up to spend 3 weeks in Alaska for each of the 2006 & 2007 Iditarods. We were able to follow the race with bush planes and stay with locals at some of the checkpoints. Anvik, Grayling, Galena and Nome are no longer just names on the race route. Planning will start soon for the 2009 trip. He's currently in Belarus for a month doing his annual 2nd century archaeology dig. I'm looking at the temps here and in Fairbanks and liking their weather today better than ours. Our malamute has been like a throw rug spread out on the hardwood floor trying to be cool. Hi to all the Artic Cam Viewers from Pennsylvania.
Muggy and miserable here in Milwaukee (Wisconsin) too.
I saw a couple of folks waving at the cam. Hope you are are having a nice day...I'm here at work and the company is having a picnic as I type..Rain or shine we always have our yearly picnic...51 and a chance of rain here at Kotzebue...have a good safe weekend!
Yogie
jbtremer - soldier's younger brother '00 was a student of your much admired husband. He remembers much of the language learned and all of the culture.
WISH I WAS IN FAIRBANKS TODAY...90 HERE IN MA. I REALLY REALLY HATE IT HERE AND I DON'T BELONG HERE...JUST WANT TO MOVE TO ALASKA WITH MY DOGS...HOPEFULLY SOMEDAY SOON. PS. DIESEL FUEL IS $4.98 PER GALLON GOING TO BE EXPENSIVE HEADING UP TO THE MOUNTAINS IN NH. THIS WEEKEND TO OUR PROPERTY!!!!
I'm in Sioux City Iowa and the temp is 85 and it is very humid. I'm already planning the trip North.
Mahoney- Thats cool. I have been to Lancaster County several times. Have fun in the last frontier!
Hey jmailman peach bottom is in lower lancaster county. Near maryland.
Mahoney- Congradulations on the BIG move! I hope fairbanks brings you and your family much happiness. Hope to get there someday myself! Where is Peach Bottom, PA located? I live in Clymer, PA in Indiana County about 80 miles North East of Pittsburgh. Have a great day!
hello fairbanks. Not much longer and I will be moving up. I live in peach bottom PA. Been to fairbanks once. Can't wait to get there.
It's a miserably hot and humid day today here in Jersey....Right now that overcast and 53 looks great!
Hope I'll be able to see something of the Golden Days celebration...
It is tomorrow isn't it?
Good Morning all! Just got home from work. I don't have to work my second job today due to the excessive heat! I am going to take a little nap, get a hair cut this afternoon and work on my magazine business. I have alot of updating to do so that will keep me busy and out of trouble! Have a great day!
GOOD MORNING EVERYONE,JUST WANTED TO SAY HAVE A GREAT DAY. AND THE ONES THAT IS TRAVELING BE SAFE. LIKE I SAID BEFORE WISH IT WERE ME.. THATS OK I WILL BE SEEING YOU IN DECEMBER..SO GOD BLESS AND ENJOY THE DAY AND BE GLAD SOMEONE ARE HAVE THE TIME OF THEIR LIFE.. HARRIETT
I appreciate the Arctic cam as Iowa is a long ways south. It is nice to able to see what it looks like there. My daughter just moved to Fairbanks and I'm looking forward to my cahnce to visit her there.
Hey All,
We made it to Eielson this afternoon. I know we will be going to Fairbanks tomorrow to pick up my car. I don't know how much exploring we will be doing then though. I'm sure over the weekend we will be doing some.
Right now after almost 2 weeks of traveling we are ready for some down time and the kids just want to get outside and play. Unfortunately we have business to attend to tomorrow so it will have to wait another day.
Just four more days and we will be arriving in Fairbanks, can't wait. We told our children we were going to look for a house and stay. You should have heard the uproar. We loved the time we spent there, my husband spent 6 years while I spent 2 1/2 years give or take a few months. One thing I found out though is if you want to live there start when you are young. Fairbanks offers a lot and we loved it, but as someone else said on here that it can be a hard life. I am a great cold and snow lover so I was in my element. Loved the summers also. But some of my favorite memories were driving over the ice instead of the bridge and watching the dog races on the river. I guess I pretty much dated myself by that last comment, but it was fun driving over the ice all winter until the first truck went through and the fun was over till the next winter.
Justin - You have to love the fact that in America we can have discussions that allow dissenting points of view and frank and open dialogue. Sorry if I was snippy in my first post today, but like you I would rather tell someone how I am feeling or perceiving their words or actions than to go behind their back or stay silent and fuming. I think we all learned a lot today by sharing our points of view. The bond is still strong ---that, for whatever reason/s, we all love Alaska. Sleep well and always dare to dream.
Janet
Well ArcticCam Viewers, I am turning in for the night (9:50 in PA.) I hope everyone has a great evening. I hope I didn't make anyone mad today with my comments but you have to understand that I am one of those who will speak my mind and not lie. That is something most people do like about me because most people will lie to spare ones feelings and so they don't upset that person. But I believe in only telling the truth and I was always taught to stand up for myself. I am glad that I got to know two people from North Pole otherwise I may have had mixed feelings about Alaskans after todays discussions. I just didn't expect the treatments I got today BUT I do respect everyones opinions. Thats the nice thing about America! Good night all. Justin.
Some_Guy- Your comment was very well said in my opinion! No matter where you go, you will have clean parts and dirty parts, nice people and rude people. Glad you voiced you opinion in a nice manner!
every city has a "clean" side and a "dirty" side -and a "south" side or a "west" side. - the store fronts can be clean with flowers all around, but behind every one is a dumpster with goo oozing out and seagulls or ravens scouring the area for pizza or french fries.
Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.
I LOVE the miles of manicured riverfront that run through the heart of Fairbanks!
I HATE the piles of cigarette butts that pile up at every intersection with a stoplight.
mama_sibe- Very well said. I completely understand what they are saying. I am sure that there are people who don't research their new home until its to late but it is not me! Have a great evening!
Endofthe road>>thanks,for giving us n alternative/different view of Alaska!! (can anyone post me these images that endoftheroad described??..the "dirty"fairbanks downtown,or perhaps the real face of Fairbanks???).
endotheroad - I don't think your comments were aimed specifically at me but bear commenting on. I heartily agree with you that it is very different visiting some place and living there. Everyone that I have told has asked if I have visited or wouldn't it be better to visit first to see if we like it? My answer is that other than financial restraints, the fact is, you can deal with anything for a week or two and especially with Alaska, if you visit during the warmer months, of course, everyone would love to live there!! My husband had actually wanted to move way before me and at the time our children were too young, in my opinion, to adjust to that type of dramatic change in their lives. When I came on board for the move, we did extensive research. Everyone asks me if we've taken into consideration the bad things about living in Fairbanks like the severe cold in the winter, hardships due to weather, differences in the cost of living, mosquitos in spring/summer, and of course, light all day and dark all day. I tell them yes, we are aware of all of those things and we are making this move with our eyes and minds open. We know that we will have to work hard to make ends meet, just like here. We know we will face depression in the winter from the darkness and sleep deprivation in the summer from the light. And Florida would probably come in right behind Alaska when it comes to mosquitos! Other than size, that is. Everything is bigger in Alaska! Yes, it is our idea of heaven because the idea of living so close to nature fills our hearts and minds with peace. But I think the real reason we want to move there is because my husband and I believe we have a true pioneering spirit. Are we moving with the mind set that this is it and no other place on earth would make us happy? No, we are moving with the mind set that if we get up there and stick it out through a couple of winters, and we're all miserable, we'll find somewhere else to live in the lower 48. Just not Florida and no more big city living for us. I hear the strains of Green Acres running through my head :-)