NEW YEAR’S FIREWORKS CANCELLED

For many years the City of Kodiak has planned semi-annual fireworks, one on New Year’s Eve, and another on Independence Day. Seldom in the 7+ years that The Kodiak Perspective has resided in Kodiak, have both displays gone off without a hitch. Often the shows are cancelled due to weather, rescheduled, cancelled again, rescheduled for a later holiday, cancelled yet again, until the public forgets that there was supposed to be a show.

In a preemptive strike, the folks at the City of Kodiak have pre-cancelled the firework show to ring in the New Year 2008. Mayor Caroline Floyd confirmed that there will not be a show next week, weather permitting or not.

“Boo Hoo” to the City for denying us this pleasure during the long nights that we endure during the winter months. It is a bright spot that we look forward to, get disappointed, look forward to again, and get disappointed again, and spoils the betting pools on when the show will finally happen. The book makers of Kodiak are in for a lean year.

THE RETURN OF LAKE KALOZ

After an extended construction season which saw new water mains and storm sewers along Lower Mill Bay Rd, Rezanof, and Center Ave, commonly known as the “Y” today’s balmy temperatures showed us what we got for our tax dollars: The Return of Lake Kaloz at the confluence of the Rezanof Straits and the Straits of Mill Bay.

Temperatures soared today to 37.9 degrees Fahrenheit, and some raindrops caused much of the sludge in and lining the roadways to recede. The inland waterways follow the canals dug in the pavement and bypass the storm sewer system, causing a lake at the “Y” on Center Ave.

Doesn’t this make you feel good about the sifting traffic patterns this summer and the jolting that vehicles took along the washboard roadbeds of summer construction?

The “walk ways” along the side of the roads are still impassable so pedestrian traffic has to share the rivers with vehicular traffic often resulting in splashed leggings and soaked socks.

Way to go, city and state planners, who conceived this farce of infrastructure repairing/replacing. We still appear to have the same problems as before this work was undertaken.

It should be noted that some may say that the project has yet to be completed, and conditions may improve when the final “permanent” paving is in place, but The Kodiak Perspective is sceptical. Please prove him wrong.

AREA 51, REPORTS OF A FLYING OBJECT

Area 51 outside Roswell, New Mexico is thought by many to be the sight of a UFO crash, and a secret military base doing research on UFO technology.

Last night there were many sightings of an object flying in this restricted air space, sometimes seeming to hover, and changing directions with amazing speed. A single red light was spotted from the nose of this aircraft which appeared long and dark.

Satellite technology from NORAD captured an image of this nighttime intruder. . .




Amateur radio enthusiasts trained parabolic microphones on the object and recorded a signal from the craft, as it flew from sight: “MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL, AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT”

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

Recently the Kodiak Daily Mirror had a letter from a grass-roots campaign suggesting that political campaigns be financed by the government. There have been many calls for reform over the years because the amount of money to run for office has become so large that only well funded candidates have any chance of getting their messages heard. It is also believed that the big money leads to political corruption.

The Kodiak Perspective is leery of turning over political money management completely to the government, there is already a check box on the IRS form 1040. This power has the potential for the government to hand select who will be able to mount a campaign. A dangerous thought! Should the government decide who can run?

Political fund-raising is one way to measure the ground swell of support, look at the fund raising efforts of Doctor Ron Paul, someone written off as having no chance, but his message seems to be very popular, even more so than some of the first tier candidates.

With the media largely ignoring these campaigns, funding of a candidate is the best way for people to show support and get the message out.

The problem may not be campaign finances, but rather coverage by the press, who largely dictate who’s name is before the public. With so many media outlets, it is a shame that only front runners get the coverage.

The recent popularity of Mike Huckabee is a good example, largely written off, he has only recently gotten air time after a surge in the polls.

While campaign finance may be part of the political problems in this country, it is not the only problem. Turning to purse strings over to the government, and creating another layer of bureaucracy, doesn’t sound like a good solution. Nice try, but let’s give it some more thought.

REINDEER GAMES

Ish of Kodiak Konfidential has challenged The Perspective’s list of reindeer names, specifically Donder, who is sometimes mistakenly referred to as “Donner”. The Perspective believes this simplification is because it is easier to say, but having “Donner” in the party might lead to disaster if they got stuck in a snow storm.

The names of Santa’s reindeer were first revealed in a poem in 1832 by Clement Clarke Moore commonly know as “The Night Before Christmas". For a discussion of the reindeer names see this informative website.

For additional information on reindeer, The Kodiak Perspective consulted Two Hot Girls in the Shower, here is what they have to say:

NORAD TRACKS SANTA

NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) is teaming up with the folks at iGoogle for a kinder gentler approach to a certain visitor entering our nation’s airspace.

The NORAD Tracks Santa website, is filled with activities for children leading up to the big night, and will use Google Earth and Google Sky to track the Fat man and his flying reindeer. (Quick: name all eight).

Since the end of the cold war, there is less to do at NORAD, and we have yet to see signs of an Al Qauda Air force or missile technology, so why not turn to happier thoughts at this magical time of year.

Visit the North pole to see the latest buzz and what those elves are up to and learn about Google Earth.

Have you named the reindeer? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder, and Blitzen. Bonus if you also include Rudolf who only works on foggy nights.

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

Nothing can get The Kodiak Perspective into the Christmas spirit faster than freshly fallen snow. Yesterday was beautiful here in Kodiak and the fresh blanket of white had The Perspective singing carols all day,

Unfortunately the Christmas spirit comes to a crashing halt when after shoveling the sidewalk three times and enjoying the satisfaction of keeping things neat and tidy, the snowplow comes around the neighbors truck that is parked on the street and deposits all the slushy mess onto the cleaned sidewalk. Now you are moving dirty, slushy, heavy snow, and it is not as much fun.

Two thoughts come to mind:
One is that in other places The Perspective has lived there is a snow parking ban. When the snowplow has not cleared your street, you may not park on the street. This eliminates the problem of an extra heavy load of snow on the walks of those of us who live down street.
The other is, why did the city of Kodiak decide to put the sidewalks abutting the streets? Other places The Perspective has lived there were tree lawns, a buffer of green between the street and the walkway. Even without this buffer, maybe the plow could clear to the “fog” line and make it easier on those of us who walk. There are many people who walk in Kodiak, and with the sidewalks covered with chunky street refuse, they are forced to walk on the streets, subject to traffic and getting splashed by unnoticing drivers.

Mister Snowplow driver please help us out. We appreciate your being called out at all hours when the snow falls, and a little courtesy to the walkers would be a wonderful Christmas present. Thank you.

WEB COMIC STRIP

The internet has a lot of content, much of it easy to miss.
This is an example of from a site that the Kodiak Perspective visits.
Please visit Partially Clips to see more.  Click on the image to see it full size.

THANKSGIVING PIRAK

The native people here in Kodiak bake a dish they call pirak, which is usually a salmon pie, but can also be made with corned beef.

Start with a large baking tin, and line it with a pie shell, then add layers including rice, salmon, cabbage, what have you cover with a shell and bake. Umm umm. These are very popular at bake sales here on the island.

Using the same idea, the Kodiak Perspective is planning a Thanksgiving Pirak. Some items are cooked separately then added to the mix for baking.

From the bottom up, first start with a layer of stuffing, then a layer of turkey (white meat), gravy, mixed vegetables, mashed potatoes, gravy, turkey (dark meat), yams (marshmallows optional), and finally a layer of cranberry sauce. Cover with a flaky shell, and bake until a golden brown. 325 for 40 minutes. Bake your pumpkin pie on another oven rack and thanksgiving dinner is served.

It may not be as visually appealing as the full thanksgiving spread, but sometimes you miss something cause it didn’t get passed and was then lost in the confusion. With the Pirak, the whole meal comes in a slice.

Happy Thanksgiving

KODIAK'S SEXY MEN

The Kodiak Daily Mirror reports that Dr Sven Haakanson is on the short list for sexiest man in People magazine. Dr Haakanson is the director of the Alutiiq Museum and recent recipient of the MacArthur Foundation Award, a genius grant of half a million dollars. This recent spotlight has revealed Kodiak Island to the world outside of Alaska, now we are known for our brown bears, geniuses, and sexy men.

International male model and Kodiak blogger, Nick Sandin was not included on the list. The host of "Jock of the Rock" on KMXT and Kodiak sex machine, said the he wasn't sure why Sven made the list, weather it was his boyish good looks, his amazing brain, or having half a million dollars, "Sure he's good looking, but they haven't seen me in a Seattle Seagal's uniform."

Also missing from the list is Keith Anthony, you may not know the name, he is the fisherman with the dreadlock beard. Keith has been a fixture on Kodiak Docks for many years.

It anything good comes out of this list, it may be the start of a Kodiak couture, as GQ is rumoured to be planning a photo spread. Soon the streets of New York, Milan, and Paris may feature Xtratufs, Carhartts, and Grundens, with the obligatory Kodiak Marine Supply Sweater.

LE ROI EST MORT. VIVE LE ROI!

The Kodiak Arts Council will present “Camelot” for the spring production. Robert Goulet, who rose to prominence for his performance on Broadway as Lancelot, passed away this week at age 73. In revivals of the show he switched roles playing King Arthur.

Lancelot makes his entrance with the song “C'est moi” showing the arrogance of the young Knight whose hubris is part of the fall of Camelot.

“A knight of the Table Round should be invincible,
Suceed where a less fantastic man would fail.
Climb a wall no one else can climb,
Cleave a dragon in record time,
Swim a moat in a coat of heavy iron mail.
No matter the pain, he ought to be unwinceable,
Impossible deeds should be his daily fare.
But where in the world
Is there in the world
A man so *extraordinaire*?

C'est moi! C'est moi, I'm forced to admit.
'Tis I, I humbly reply.”

Let’s remember Robert as we enjoy this spring’s musical “Camelot”.

KODIAK KOWBOY SLIPS IN THE MUD

Today is Breeder’s Cup day at Monmouth Park. The Breeder’s Cup Juvenile at a mile and a sixteenth sets up the betting pool for the Kentucky Derby in May. The winner of the BC Juvenile is often the pre-race favorite though only one has actually won the first leg of the triple crown, Street Sense, last year.

Here in Kodiak Alaska, some have been following the career of two year old Kodiak Kowboy who had 4 wins, each showing improvement before faltering in his last prep at Belmont Park.

How would he fair against a strong field in a longer race?
The Racing Form showed a lot of talent in this race, including undefeated War Pass, trained by Nicholas Zito, not the State Trooper assigned to Kodiak, Nick Zito.

When it came time to laying down some green, after carefully perusing the Racing Form, the Kodiak Perspective got lucky in this race hitting the 2-7 exacta of War Pass and Pyro paying $25.20 for a $2 bet.

As for Kodiak Kowboy, he didn’t like the sloppy track but managed to show, though well off the pace.

KODIAK JAIL

Now that the voters of Kodiak have spoken, it is time to revisit options for the Kodiak jail/police station.

The Kodiak Perspective came across this interesting configuration for short term storage of infants. It is intended for church groups to keep the criers out of the worship service.

This idea is one that could be adapted for the overnight portion of the “guests” of the Kodiak jail, say 10pm to 8am, and augmented with some larger common areas for the daytime. This idea is presently used in Japan where crowding is a problem with people overnighting in what appear to be overlarge dog kennels.

Of course the wooden structure would be replaced by something less tamper proof.
Just something to think about.

CRUISING HOLIDAY

Today is Columbus Day, when the United States celebrates the discovery of the new world. Of course the new world was already discovered and inhabited, just not by the colonial powers during the age of discovery.

Columbus never did find the new world, but rather landed in San Salvador, in the Bahamas. Or if you will, the first cruise ship to make port in these tropical islands. The Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria were a far cry from the modern cruise ships that visit these island, for one thing there was no midnight buffet. But like all good tourists, the crew gawked at the native inhabitants, called them the wrong thing, and took home souvenirs (including t-shirts that said, “Chris went to the Bahamas and all I got was this lousy T-shirt”.

Cruise ships are a wonderful way to spend a relaxing vacation, and visit many ports. The Kodiak Perspective encourages all to celebrate by booking your cruise today.

HAINES VS EL LAY

Tiny Haines Alaska (Population @1800) has made the national spotlight this week with a story in the Wall Street Journal. It seems that there is a dispute over the name “Hammer Museum”. A Museum run by UCLA formerly known as the Armand Hammer Museum has shortened its moniker, maybe because people confuse Armand Hammer, art collector with Arm ‘N’ Hammer the company that helps eliminates orders in your refrigerator, and filed a copyright petition for the name. Meanwhile a museum of Hammers in Haines Alaska founded in 2000 by Dave Pahl has also filed a copyright claim.

Not that anyone would confuse the two entities. The dispute seems to be over internet listings with domain names for the museums and where they fall under a google search. The Armand Hammer Museum is part of UCLA and includes that in their web address, but has secured rights to domain names without UCLA in the address that had formerly belonged to the tiny museum of 1500 tools. Armed with 26 lawyers, the UCLA museum is trying to muscle out Dave Pahl, with no lawyers, in this struggle.

Most visitors to Haines are more interested in Eagles than hammers, but the Perspective admires the enterprise of Mr Pahl and his collection. That is not ashamed of its heritage or full name.

The Kodiak Perspective, proud to support Alaska.

SALAD

After forty-sum years of being onmeown the Kodiak Perspective has been seeing a woman for a few months. Despite his knack for saying the wrong thing and getting her upset, she hasn’t gone running screaming to the hills yet. (Editors note: the stories posted on this subject are fictionalized and are for entertainment purposes only.)

The Girlfriend calls this week and tells the Perspective that she has been to Walyworld and has purchased something he needs. “HE NEEDS”. The Kodiak Perspective has been to Walyworld and there is nothing anyone could possibly “need” to be found there. So she has something that the Perspective has managed to live without for his forty-plus years that he absolutely needs, hmmmm.

When she arrives she shows the Perspective a square plastic bowl approximately 10" square and 6" deep. The Perspective is puzzled, this is the life altering item? “When I saw that you keep your salad in a grocery bag I was aghast, this is for you to store your lettuce.” OK, the Perspective is a guy, and when I cut up some salad, I put it bag in the plastic bag and then shake it up, it is a great way to toss a salad. If he was looking for a salad storage system, maybe one of those centrifuges called a salad spinner would be cool, but a square plastic tub?

The Kodiak Perspective wonders: What next?

A FLAWED ANALOGY

In the previous post, The Kodiak Perspective was recounting answers about word processors for Mac. His Mac guru sent this note explaining his response: “Even if you own a Porsche, you still have to drive on the right-hand side of the road.”

The Perspective believes this is flawed because YES we must obey the laws, but a word processor is a basic accessory with possible after market alternatives. The Kodiak Perspective offers another version keeping the theme intact: “It is like owning a Porsche, then getting Earl Sheib to repaint it another color.”

PFD PERSPECTIVE (MAC HELP)

For those of you who don’t live in Alaska, the PFD is a factitious payout to those of us who live in the state, so please stay where you are at, it’s not really true. It’s all a big lie to make you jealous. Don’t believe it.

The Perspective has decided to spend some of this year’s dividend on a notebook computer. Heading the advice of a friend, The Perspective is thinking about a Mac Book. Besides the advise, there is much bad press about Vista.

When I asked another friend about word processors for Mac, CK1 said he uses Microsoft Word for Mac. AAARRRGGGHHH! So then The Perspective asked the friend who encouraged the Mac move, who also said he uses Microsoft Word for Mac! Double AAARRRGGGHHH!!

What is the point of going to a Mac if you are going to run a Microsoft product? Isn’t this what The Perspective wants to avoid? Why must we suffer fools.

Tucows lists several choices, but The Perspective has no firsthand knowledge or friends recommendations. His first thought is to try Mellel, and see how that works out.

If you are a Mac afficionado, please comment on what a good choice would be (any Microsoft Word for Mac suggestions will be purged!!!).

While you are at it, The Perspective would also be interested in Database program recommendations. Maybe something in an .sql language. Thank you.

RUN OFF THE ROAD

Anyone who has spent any time riding a bicycle has had encounters with cars and drivers who just don’t get it. From the blast of a horn or a shout from an open window to “get off the road” to something more dangerous like passing too closely or entering your right of way.

This afternoon on his way to the grocery, The Kodiak Perspective was run off the road. The driver passed then slowed quickly and made a right hand turn into a parking lot. The Perspective jammed the brakes fish-tailing the rear tire and tried going right to avoid a direct hit. The impact did some minor damage to the bicycle, but fortunately, The Perspective landed out of the roadway.

The driver made some interesting comments:
“You were riding in the road.” and “I saw you, but I didn’t know you were going that fast.”

Bicycles are street legal vehicles and have a right of way on city streets. Most drivers know this and give a wide berth. Some drivers just don’t know the rules of the road.

Alaska Statute 13 AAC 02.385 that applies regulations to bicycles:
(a) Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway has all the rights and is subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of any other vehicle as set out in this chapter, in addition to special regulations in secs. 385 - 420 of this chapter, except as to those provisions of this chapter which by their nature have no application.

More information from the Alaska Department of Transportation:
The FHWA publication "Selecting Roadway Design: Treatments to Accommodate Bicycles," January 1994, - Advanced Bicyclists.

These are experienced riders who can operate under most traffic conditions. They comprise the majority of the current users of collector and arterial streets and are best served by the following:
direct access to destinations usually via the existing street and highway system; the opportunity to operate at maximum speed with minimum delays; and sufficient operating space on the roadway or shoulder to reduce the need for either the bicyclist or the motor vehicle operator to change position when passing.

The Perspective wishes to thank all of you who drive who share the road with bicycles, motorcycles, and even pedestrians. Thank you for driving safely.

TOO MUCH, TOO FAST

For the past couple of months The Kodiak Perspective has been seeing a girl. A wonderful feeling, full of promise and excitement. To tell the truth, it has been a while since The Perspective has been steady with a girl. The process of dating is one where you try to make connections and hope that you have found someone for the long term.

Things started to move too quickly when she started talking about long term commitment. The Perspective tries to use humor to diffuse situations that are uncomfortable, but lacking that vital social filter, he may have gone too far.

The girlfriend e-mailed web pages of wedding gowns.
The Perspective shot back, “Well, it is almost time for Halloween.”

Looks like The Perspective is single again.

WOULD YOU VOTE FOR THESE PEOPLE?

The Kodiak Island Borough Election Pamphlet arrived in today’s mail. The Kodiak Perspective is disappointed that there are no candidates from the villages.

Scott Arndt is running for three posts: School Board, Fire Protection Area #1 Board, and Service Area #1 Board.. A quick check of Borough Delinquent Tax Rolls shows Mr Arndt in arrears for three years, owing $2,617.09.

Also running for School Board is Peggy Rauwolf, who lists her spouse as John. The Delinquent Tax Rolls list a John, and John F. Rauwolf as being in arrears. The Perspective is unable to verify that either is the husband listed, but Rauwolf is not a common name here in Kodiak, so it is suspected that she may be owing (assuming that a families finances are co-mingled).

“I don’t pay my taxes, but vote for me anyway”

Yeah right! If you are not responsible for your own affairs, why should you be trusted with a public position?

If you are seeking information about the Borough, like what exactly is a “Service Area”, don’t use the site listed in the pamphlet on the last page, it is wrong, The Borough has a new web address.

The Kodiak Perspective encourages everyone eligible to familiarize yourself with the candidates and the issues, and to vote on October 2.

SOME PEOPLE NEVER FORGET

A very long time ago, before cell phones, ipods, and wireless internet, when there were still walkmen, cordless phones, and 26kbaud modems (hard drives were just coming out) The Kodiak Perspective attended college. While there, he signed up for REI a co-op for outdoor gear, he was active in a backpacking group at the school and would often spend breaks not in Florida getting drunk and stupid with naked coeds, but rather going to hiking trails in National Parks. Good choice?

The Perspective never purchased any goods from the co-op as it was still too pricey for his college years budgets, and after leaving school, changing addresses a few times, he lost touch.

Visiting Anchorage Alaska, The Perspective discovered that REI has a large store near Title Wave Books. He went in to browse, but still thought that the prices were high, compared to other outlets like Sierra Trading.

Earlier this year, in preparation for a trip, The Kodiak Perspective revisited the store, looking for some fast drying swim wear. Approaching the counter, he was asked if he was a member. Well, he said that he had signed up in college way back in 19 buh-buh-buh-buh, and after checking the database, his name was still on file! This is 20+ years and never having made a single purchase!

Now he is back on the mailing list. Amazing.

DOES THE BEAR POOP IN THE WOODS?

The state of California, which features a bear in their seal, may have bears that poop in the woods, but hikers on Mt Whitney may no longer do so. The outhouse atop the mountain has been closed. At an elevation of 14,494 ft, it was the highest outhouse in the continental US.

So what is a hiker to do if he feels the need? The Forest Service is issuing Wagbags to hikers when they apply for a permit to hike the trail. The Wagbag (Waste Alleviation and Gelling) is described on the company website as: "Our non-toxic Pooh Powder waste treatment treats up to 32 ounces of liquid and solid waste allowing for multiple use. It turns liquid waste to a solid for hygenic and spillproof transport. The Pooh Powder waste treatment controls odors and contains a decay catalyst that breaks down solid waste."

The Forest Service used to clean out the outhouse using helicopters to remove 250 lb bags of waste. Brian Spitak of the Forest Service states, "It’s one thing to take a risk to fly up there to pick up a sick or injured person, to do it to fly out a bag of poop is another."

Or is it just part of budgets cuts to the Forest Service?

CARBON DATING

The Kodiak Perspective has recently been seeing a woman socially. She is younger than the Perspective, but not considerably so according to birth certificates, however, it seems that from points of reference, we are further than the chronological age suggests.

When the Perspective sings a song, she doesn’t know it, or if she does it is by the wrong artist. “Brown Eyed Girl” by Jimmy Buffet?? After the Perspective finished tossing his cookies, he tried to introduce her to Van Morrison.

Her favorite cartoon is “Kim-Possible”, . . . who?

If you follow the sage advice found on the paper place mats at Chinese restaurants, you should avoid those six years older or younger. These paper place mats have been handed down since the time of Confucius.

And yet, we seem to get along very well. The Perspective will have to take his chances. In the meantime, it feels good to interact with another carbon based life form with curvy parts and who smells good.

KODIAK BEER PONG LEAGUE

The Wall Street Journal ran a story about two guys who were tired of cleaning up after a night of playing beer pong, so they dropped out of college, designed and produced a special beer pong table, and now are living the good life.

Drinking games are and have been a part of the college experience, but the Kodiak Perspective admits his age, and missed the coming of "Beer Pong" where glasses of beer are set out and rivals try to toss ping pong balls into the cups. If you get the ball in the cup of beer, your opponent must chug it. When all of a teams beer is gone, the game is over. The team that still has beer is the winner (loser?).

Hmmmm . . . Maybe the watering holes around Kodiak should form a league, complete with tee shirts and caps. Weekly meets could be held at different establishments culminating in the crowing of a champion.

It has to be safer than darts, (never understood getting drunk and hurling pointy projectiles) and it sounds like a whole lot more fun.

HOW WORK GETS DONE

Like many of you, the Kodiak Perspective, has been watching the progress of the water main replacement project going on this summer. After snapping this picture of one man in a whole with five guys standing around it, the foreman addressed the Perspective, "If you are going to take pictures, you need a hard hat." When asked if he had an extra hard hat, he told this reporter to keep moving.

BEAR VS PIG

What do Kodiak Bears crave when they want a cool refreshing beverage? Some locally crafted Kodiak Island Brewery Beer. This bear pig was brought in from a setnet site after it’s encounter with a Kodiak Brown Bear. There are two prominent punctures in the skin, not sure if they are teeth or claws marks.

The bear also made off with a Kodiak Island Brewery tee shirt, and a "Support you local Brewery" bumper sticker.

PURITY OF ESSENCE

Colonel Jack D. Ripper from "Dr Strangelove" warned us to protect ourselves from the evils of fluoridation. This month one of the champions of fluoride in our water died, Dr. Duncan W. Clark, passed away at his home at the age of 96. Many water supplies now are fluoridated, but in the early 1960's the practice was debated as costly and unsafe.

We thank Dr Clark for his small part in adding to the story of this great movie. Remember the words of Col. Jack D. Ripper, "That’s why I only drink branch water or distilled Kentucky bourbon"

STUFF, STUFF, AND MORE STUFF

The Perspective is busy cleaning out the house. It is just amazing the amount of stuff that accumulates. Where does it all come from. It could be that shell you picked up on the beach, or some colored glass, or the dozen pens and pencils that were heaved upon you at ComFish. The magnet you picked up on vacation, or the soap that you brought home in your luggage, it just keeps building. A pack of matches from a restaurant, or a velvet bag from a bottle of Crown, or those Mardi Gras beads you’ve had for years. Tee shirts from events you’ve been to, or took park in, or the extra buttons that came with a shirt.

Useless, useless, useless, time to throw things away. How hard is it to throw these things away. When the real question is why is it here in the first place? The funny thing is that the Kodiak Perspective is not materialistic, and yet it still comes, like dust, covering every surface.

Toss it away, but the stuff is like a boomerang, it just comes back, and brings it’s friends. The worst part about clearing out the stuff is the closets. You can empty a closet, and the house looks no cleaner.

Progress is being made in the war on stuff, but the battle is still raging at the home of the Kodiak Perspective.

VISTA POLL

After asking the readers to own up, Windows Vista made an impressive comeback in the recent poll. If we disregard the skewwed results for "other", the readers slightly favor Mac to Vista. Several computer companies are starting to offer Linux, but the poll results show a large lag. Apple announced the new iMac this week.

The new poll is about the significance of 756.

756 – ITS JUST A NUMBER

The world didn’t end today, though there were reports of Ishmael trying to commit suicide by jumping out the window of the KoKon bunker, too bad it is in the basement of his mother’s house, as Barry Bonds passed Hank Aaron as the all time home run king.

Given the high emotional output by fans, friends and enemies, the Barry Bonds quest has livened up the summer, as people debated what the meaning of the number 756, just as they argued the number 61 just a few years back.

Now that we have a new number, can we just get back to enjoying the pennant races.

IS IT REALLY THAT BAD?

Even though Microsoft dominates the market, not one responder will admit to using a microsoft product.
The Kodiak Perspective is produced on a Dell with Microsoft XP, though there has been some dabbling with Linux Fedora. Some friends use Mac, and are encouraging a switch.

STARBUCKS TO RAISE PRICES

"The widely anticipated move marks Starbucks' second price increase in less than a year and comes a month after the coffee shop chain's chief financial officer warned it would be "very challenging" for Starbucks to meet the high end of its 2007 earnings forecast, in part because of rising dairy prices.

U.S. milk prices have soared recently amid strong global demand for dairy products and higher production costs."

This is good news for the Matanuska Maid, who has been struggling of late and had to have the Governess step in to avoid a shut down. Why is the Maid in trouble when the dairy industry is soaring? The news has been quiet lately out of the valley.

Maybe it is time to make a deal with Alaska Starbucks. Lucky for us here in Kodiak that we have so many choices. When it comes to java, The Perspective favors local beaneries over the Seattle mega-caffinatorium.

PRIME REAL ESTATE

The former home of "Safe Harbor", a halfway house for persons who had trouble with substance abuse, goes on the auction block next week in Anchorage.

Wouldn’t this be an idea for a minimum security jail for those 3-day sentences for drunk drivers? The facility has rooms for holding group counciling sessions and could reduce the needs of the proposed new jail here in Kodiak.

The Auction is Tuesday, July 31, @ 10:am

GOODBYE TAMMY FAYE

Tammy Faye Messner, nee Bakker passed away this weekend, she was 65. Cofounder of the PTL (Praise the Lord) network with her husband Jim, Tammy Faye was best known for consulting with Ringling Brothers for makeup advise.

PTL was very popular in the 80's, and the Bakkers built a religious theme park called Heritage USA. The ministry came crashing down as the result of scandals involving fraud and sex. Mr Bakker was sentenced to a 45 year prison term, and Tammy Faye vowed to stand by her man (for three years). After the divorce she remarried Roe Messner, a wealthy contractor and business associate, who was also convicted of bankruptcy fraud.

Tammy Faye was very popular in the gay community and spawned many look alike contests. Embracing her new followers she attended gay pride events.

"I want my funeral to be a real happy time, I want everyone laughing and remembering how crazy I was." Crazy, all the way to the bank.

EUROPEAN STYLE ALL AMERICAN???

While shopping at Safeway this weekend The Kodiak Perspective became confused over the labeling of a new line of bagged salads from Ready Pac.

"Fresh EUROPEAN Style"
"Salades Fraîcheur de Style Européen"
"ALL AMERICAN"

The bag features red and white stripes across the top.
"All American" is in a blue field near the bottom.

Any guesses as to what this means?

HARRY POTTER AND THE CHRISTIAN RIGHT

When Harry Potter first caught the imagination of young readers, there were much ado from Christian groups who decried the effects he might have on his audience. Protests against the use of sorcery and magic with fanciful creatures were lobbied by Christian groups. Never mind that the real effect was that children were reading books instead of watching television or playing video games.

As the series continued, and Harry became even more public with movies, these protests became less vocal. The character was given the dispensation of celebrity.

Now as the final chapter of his saga has been written, the battle between Harry and the right has been won, as Christians have started emulating him with fanciful tales in their own books. No, not with wizardry, but as humans who has help from messiah like kings returned from the dead in their battle against fallen satanic characters.

The "Door Within" series is just one example of the new breed of Christian fantasy. More than a dozen titles are due out this summer as the Christians vie for a slice of the multi-billion dollar book pie.

Wizards and sorcery are bad., but ghosts and devils are good, as long as the Christians get their share.

Well done Harry, you’ve won this battle, and shown your opponents for who they really are.

READERS EVENLY DIVIDED

It appears that there is no clear idea for what to do with the land on Near Island. Given many options, readers were unable to choose just one, as there are many viable options.
The City of Kodiak has recently put plans for development on hold with citizens getting a petition on the next ballot to stop the Police/Jail from being built on Near Island.

With this public outcry, the next election could be pivotal, with two council seats and the mayor position open, to shaping the future of the City of Kodiak.

August is the month for candidates to gather signatures to place names on the ballot. With Mayor Floyd’s retirement will the city be taken over by Sandinista forces?

This election promises to be fun.

KILLER BADGERS OF BASRA

The British army has been forced to deny claims that it has released giant badgers to terrorise the population of the Iraqi city of Basra.

The creatures are said to eat human flesh and run faster than a deer.

"We have not released giant badgers in Basra, and nor have we been collecting eggs and releasing serpents into the Shatt al-Arab river," said British army spokesman Major David Gell.

HEALTHY PETS ACT

California lawmakers are considering a bill to require that pets be spayed or neutered. Proponents point to the large number of animals that are euthanized each year, nearly half a million. While opponents attack the bill on two fronts, freedom of choice, and that the bill is racist, as some minorities can not afford to comply or pay the fine and will have to surrender their pets for destruction.

Breeders would need permits to keep their animals whole, and many have threatened to leave the state. The American Kennel Club opposes the bill and may move its national competition from the city of Long Beach. Service dogs (guide dogs) would be exempted.

This "Healthy Pets Act" has generated more response from voters than an assisted suicide bill tagged "Death With Dignity".

Here in Kodiak, we have a different approach to animal control, just consider the number of "dog on a stick" booths at Crab Festival. Ummmm.

BRISTOL BAY KIDS TO GET BIKES

As part of a $150k grant, bicycles are now on their way to indigenous children in Bristol Bay. This program is supposed to help control diabetes in villages by reducing one of the factors thought to lead to the disease, obesity. The idea is to get kids riding bikes instead of four wheeled off road motorized vehicles.
Any child, up to seniors in high school, are eligible for this bike giveaway. Some will get Trek 21-speed bicycles, while younger ones will receive single speed bikes. 735 bikes are on their way.

The Perspective is a big fan of bicycling, with several thousand miles of road gone past, and applauds the good intentions of this program.

The Perspective does have a few questions though. Is this just a one time, feel good, project, or are there provisions for maintenance and repairs? Will there be any data collected to see if this effort has any effect on diabetes rates in the villages? Will the program continue for kids who reach bike riding age over time?

The biggest question: Isn’t this the responsibility of the parents, who have means enough to have ORVs, but don’t provide bikes for their kids?

PRINCESS DI

10 years after the death of the "people’s princess" Princess Diana is again all over the media; concerts, auctions, and a special magazine edition. The Perspective did not understand all the fuss when she was alive, and doesn’t understand the continued media play.

True, Diana was very good at what she did, attracting rich men. She was a pretty hot chick, by British standards, who married an ugly dude, and true to her duties squeezed out a royal heir, and one for insurance, before deciding that she could find some other rich dudes who weren’t nearly as ugly as Chuck.

So why is she held in such high esteem, is this the behavior you would want your daughters to emulate, being a gold-digger?

SWEET NEW RIDE

One disadvantage to living in a small community on an island is that sometimes, even though you try to support local business, you have to shop off island. Our local bike man, Tim, was unable to get this sweet ride in his shop. Tim did give his blessing to purchase the Bianchi Milano off island, and even helped arrange the shipping with the other bicycle dealer. Thanks Tim.
This bicycle is not only eye-catching, but great fun to ride, and is well suited to the gentle hills of Kodiak with it’s 8 speed internal shifting hub. No clanky derailleur, just smooth shifting and smooth pedaling as there is no compensation for chain length on different sprockets.
Topping off this beauty is a classic Brooks B17 leather saddle with hand hammered copper rivets in a limited edition British Racing Green, that complements the trademark Celeste color of the Bianchi Bicycle Company.
Ah, the joys of summer.

NO IPHONES IN KODIAK

Apple iphones go on sale in a few days, but, much to the dismay of many technophiles, the new phone will not work on Kodiak Island. The much heralded mobile devise will only work with the ATT network, formerly known as Cingular. The coverage map shows that there is partner coverage on the mainland. A development coverage map shows that ATT has no plans to build an Alaskan market.
The Wall Street Journal interviewed Steve Jobs of Apple who repeatedly answered the questions about other networks and future upgrades with his standard answer, "We don’t talk about future products."

HAMBURGER SLAMMER

Living close to the water offers many forms of entertainment: fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating, beach combing, surfing, wake boarding, jet skis, and now the folks at Hamburger Slammer offer us a new choice, the peddle boat. This alternative to the kayak appeals to those who enjoy bicycling who wish to explore the coastal waters. This 12 foot water craft features twin screws and a ballasted keel for tracking in the wind.

Priced somewhere between a kayak and a jet ski, this just may be the next fad for outdoor enthusiasts and fitness freaks. There is even room for a friend.

Is this too cool for school, or totally gay? Your comments may be a deciding voice on if this will be the new Perspective-mobile.

ISLAND OF RUMORS

Last Tuesday the Kodiak Perspective reported on rumors about a city councilperson. In attempting to verify the story, the Perspective asked the person in question, who denied the reports as being untrue.
Taking the councilperson’s word, the Perspective is happy to report that the couple is not estranged, and that councilperson has not moved outside of city limits.

The councilperson has received numerous calls inquiring if the rumor was true. Since it was a rumor, the Perspective was and continues to be vague about the identity, but apparently the callers were able to ferret out the identity (unless all councilpersons received similar calls), or, perhaps, the rumor was more widespread than this blog.

The Perspective should be more careful to verify rumors, even if it is a piece of juicy gossip about a public figure.

ANOTHER PERSPECTIVE

Some recent posts have taken shots at "so-called" Christians, for another perspective,
try this article from "City Girl in Alaska".

DEJA VU

Quick, get today’s edition of the Daily Mirror. Note the date on page 1, “June 20 2007". Now look at page 2, “June 11, 2007". No wonder these stories sounded familiar.

Mistakes like this could never happen in the days of hot lead, but in the modern era of computer typesetting, where files are stored electronically, it does happen, or then again, maybe it was a slow news day.

SAVE THE MATANUSKA MAID

The Matanuska Maid Dairy plans to cease operations on July 7, 2007, citing costs of Homeland Security upgrades, increased competition, and increased costs.

Recently the dairy denied the Governess access to the plant when she tried to visit, even though she has the highest security clearance in the state.

One way to keep the Matanuska Maid open comes from recent developments in Japan where Abashiri Beer brewery in Nakashibetsu, Hokkaido has started producing BILK, beer made from milk.

Beer has a much higher profit margin than milk, and could solve the financial difficulties, create more jobs in bottling, and add a unique product to the state of Alaska.

BILK has the added benefit in a higher calcium content to decrease the occurrence of osteoporosis in our beer drinking elders.

WHITE SAGE, WHITE HOLLY

The White Sage and the White Holly were two Coast Guard cutters that were decommissioned in the 1990s. Normally decommissioned ships are sold at auction, maybe included in foreign aid packages, or added to the mothball fleet.

These two cutters were earmarked for medical missions in the South Pacific and handed over to Canvasback Missions in Benicia California, a “faith” based organization in 1999.

Instead of going to Micronesia, the cutters were sold, the White Sage to a maritime equipment company who sold it to a pig farmer who provides ferry service in Nicaragua, and the White Holly to a California couple who rent the cutter for eco-tours and marine research. Proceeds from the sales were put in the Canvasback Missions general fund used for “evangelism” which is forbidden by federal law.

Canvasback Missions is being investigated by the IRS for misuse of the funds, but continues to receive government contracts of $2 million dollars from the Defense Department.

Just another example of putting your faith in a faith based operation. In God we trust, all others should pay cash. One can only hope for a better fate for the Storis, recently of Kodiak Alaska.

THAT DIDN’T TAKE LONG

Imprisoned hotel heiress Paris Hilton has said she believes God has given her a new chance and she plans to stop acting dumb and put her influence to good use.

It only took three days in jail to find god. One has to marvel at the conversion rate in prison. Is it because the person has already been found guilty and is hoping for forgiveness, or is it to impress the parole board? Whatever the reason, jail is one of the leading causes of Christianity.

There seems to be a great number of outward “Christians”, it is impossible to swing a dead cat without hitting one. The Perspective has been approached and preached at while trying to enjoy coffee at a local beanery, and at other public gatherings, as well as having people just knock on my door. People will offer that they are “Christian” in simple conversation.

The perspective was taught (by nuns) that outward displays are prideful and a sin. They taught that people would know by how you chose to live. In the Bible, Jesus had contempt for the pharisees who made public displays of their “faith”.

As always it is a good idea to “beware of false prophets”.

ON THE CITY COUNCIL

The City of Kodiak has run notices calling for interested parties to apply for the vacancy on the city council, the requirements are that applicants must be 21 years of age, be a resident of the City of Kodiak, and be a qualified voter.

Sources close to the Kodiak Perspective have revealed that one sitting council member is not currently residing within the City of Kodiak.

Sources say that this councilperson has split from a spouse and is currently living in Bells Flats. The Perspective does not know how long a person may reside outside the city limits before one is considered ineligible for city office.

At this point, the story in unconfirmed, so the Perspective is being vague until the situation has been determined.

WORLD NAKED BIKE RIDE

Protesters in several cities took to the streets to protest oil dependency, car culture, and the staggering cost of fuel, in the forth annual World Naked Bike Ride. The largest group was in London where 1000 naked cyclists were expected. 400 cyclists were seen in Paris. Other demonstrations took place in Madrid and Vancouver. Here in Kodiak Alaska, a constant drizzle and cooler temperatures kept local cyclists clothed, though some may have wished for clothes free weather. A similar ride in Cape Town South Africa for global warming awareness was snuffed by authorities.

Why is it that protesters like to get naked? The most famous example is Lady Godiva who rode naked through the streets of Coventry on May 31, 1678 in protest of taxes. A quick search on the internet finds many instances of protesters shedding their clothes, including anti-war demonstrations, and those opposed to cruelty to animals. The latest craze is to protest global warming by getting naked.

Does protesting naked help to get your message heard, or does it just insure that your picture will appear somewhere on the world wide web, and possibly on the local media? Being naked, just to get attention, may actually get a group dismissed as freaks rather than spreading their message.

If protesters do take to the streets of Kodiak sans-clothing it will probably be a good thing as it means we are having a sunny day.

TRAM TO PILLAR MOUNTAIN

With plans underway to develop Near Island, the city of Kodiak is looking for the next development area, Pillar Mountain! Soon there may be talk of a tram (cable car) from the city dock to the top of Pillar Mountain for tourists to capture that postcard picture. Development plans would include a restaurant and gift shop and perhaps a giant stature of a fisherman to make a focal point like Cristo Redentor on Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro. Perhaps the city could put in an animal enclosure so the tourists could be guaranteed of seeing our famous bear, similar to the Barbary Apes in Gibraltar.

This could be a nice money maker for the city and would give the tourist another option for their time while visiting beautiful Kodiak.

FIRE DEPARTMENT SMACKDOWN

Squabbles between Kodiak’s fire stations have turned ugly. Earlier in the year emergency preparedness planners discovered that rival departments were not cooperating and a fireman was removed from the city squad leading to discussions in the halls of government here in Kodiak.

This week the ongoing turf war between these rival fire departments has escalated to physical contact, as a member of the city squad allegedly shoved a Bayside squad member who was assisting an injured woman at the scene of an accident. A formal complaint has been filed with the Alaska State Troopers and an investigation has begun.

Members of these rival gangs wear there colors with pride and have been seen driving their custom rides and wielding axes in public. Fortunately the violence did not continue as the Bayside homies failed to represent, and the woman was safely taken from the scene to the hospital.

Super Trooper Cooper and Nick the horseman were at the scene when the KFD dissed the Baysider, though it is not known what they will report.

The public is warned to avoid situations where members of these rival gangs may meet just in case there is a rumble, at the very least one should learn to snap his fingers rhythmically like in West Side Story.

THE PERSPECTIVE IS BACK FROM BRASIL

Some of you may have seen the Perspective around town and been wondering why there have been no new posts. Traveling over three continents left the Perpective with much a lot of memories to get on paper. Most of the journals are written, though it still has to be put together with the photographs, but now there will be more time for the blog. Sorry for the long hiatus.

The journey started with two nights of flying from Alaska to Brasil with a stay in Rio de Janeiro before boarding a ship to go north across the equator, and to the west coast of Africa and eventually Europe. Along the way were many new experiences, including meeting some very beautiful Brasilian women who enjoyed my company. Sometime in the future the Kodiak Perspective may have to consider changing locations to Salvador de Baia Brasil, after learning to speak Portuguese.

Vacation

The Kodiak Perspective . . .

. . . is on Vacation

FULL COLOR ADS

Have you noticed the full color ads that have been running in the Kodiak Daily Mirror espousing the virtues of development on Near Island? The ads are hard to miss as they sprawl across the bottom of the page. If you look very closely you will see the inscription “Paid for by the City of Kodiak”. Plans for development of Near Island are moving forward quickly, with lots allocated for 2 native corporations, the Post Office, the Alaska Marine Highway terminal, and the Jail/Police Station. So why is the City of Kodiak spending gobs of money on this public relations campaign when it is pretty much a done deal? Are they going to convince the nay-sayers or are they trying to sway those fence sitters on the City Council to finalize the plans that they have been shoving down the taxpayers throats. Full color ads in the Kodiak Daily Mirror cost $800 plus the linage costs of $10.99 per column inch! The property tax that the Kodiak Perspective pays (City of Kodiak 2 mills) would not cover the cost of even 1 ad. The City of Kodiak must be swimming in money, or in the planned 14 million dollar pool.

DINNER THEATER – FOOD AND FUN

The Dinner and Theater presented semi-annually as a fund-raiser for the Kodiak Morning Rotary with help from the Kodiak Arts Council and Culinary Horizons is a fun event. A new twist this year is the separation of the dinner and the theater, one group eats while the other group sees the entertainment. This is an improvement over the portable stage which sat higher than the audience. The food and company are excellent and the entertainment light and surprising. The recent offering “Evil Little Thoughts” ran a bit long in the second act, but was much enjoyed by the well fed audience. A brave performance by director Mike Wall, who started undergoing chemo-therapy earlier in the week led a talented cast in this dark comedy.  

SPECIAL ELECTION

Alaskans are asked to go to the polls on April 3 for a special “advisory” vote, not a binding vote, to say whether or not the people of Alaska would like the legislature to draft a constitutional amendment to “prohibit employment benefits to state, municipal, or other subdivisions of the state from providing employment benefits to same-sex partners of public employees and to same-sex partners of public employee retirees?” Other subdivisions includes schools. This special advisory election will cost the state $1.2 million dollars and voter turnout is expected to be very low considering the non-binding nature of the question and that there are no other issues or positions on the ballot.

A statement from the League of Women’s Voters (Reprinted from the Nenana Messenger)

"As the April 3, 2007 advisory vote on the possibility of a future constitutional amendment approaches, the League of Women Voters of Alaska finds itself in an awkward position. Our mission as an organization is to encourage informed and active participation in government – we’re all about voting.

How could we possible be troubled or concerned about one more opportunity to cast a vote? But we are. Our state constitution clearly spells out the amendment process. The drafters of our constitution purposely chose a two-step amendment process, beginning with a proposal from a deliberative body (the legislature). Only after the legislators have deliberated, debated, and formally approved an amendment do the people vote.

The April 3 advisory vote turns this constitutional process on its head. Citizens are being asked to vote their opinion or hunch or best guess on what the legislature could or should or might do in the future. Indeed, we are being asked to vote before we know what we are voting on. For example, the language of the advisory vote differs very substantially from the related bill pending in the legislature. Furthermore, our legislators can choose to interpret the advisory vote outcome any way they wish while claiming that they are simply following the command of the people.

Our legislators are avoiding their constitutional duty at considerable financial cost to the state, and with considerable disrespect for the constitution and voters of the state, apparently only for the purpose of obtaining some political cover.

Should you vote on April 3? As the League of Women Voters, we are always in favor of voting. But this special election has sorely tested our convictions and resolve. Bottom line? The $1.2 million has been spent and the polls will be open from 7:00 in the morning until 8:00 in the evening. So we recommend going to your polling place on April 3 and casting a “no” vote as a way of sending a message – no more advisory votes!"

Katherine Gouyton, President League of Women Voters of Alaska.

GOVERNMENT MIND CONTROL

There were two interesting stories reported today on the Reuters news service. Bloggers in China and Television in the United States. How are these two stories related, they are both attempts by big government to control the masses. China’s bloggers now number 34 million and write about a myriad of topics, some of which upset the “General Administration of Press and Publication” which is trying to extend the rules for “licensed news outlets” to blogs.

Meanwhile in the United States, where we prize our freedom of speech, television broadcasts, the opiate of the masses, are required to go digital by 2009 eliminating free over the air broadcasts and making analog televisions obsolete. The Commerce Department has announced a $1.5 billion dollar plan to keep Americans watching television with subsidies to purchase converters for analog televisions. Did we get a rebate when records were replaced by compact disks, or when DVDs replaced tape media? Television is far too important to keeping the masses occupied and feeding them propaganda. Don’t be a mindless automaton, get rid of your television now, and learn to think for yourself.

CHESS

The Perspective has recently dusted off his chess set which has been retired for many years. This was due to interest in the game by a friends daughter and a fellow volunteer at KMXT. The Perspective is always glad to help those with an interest in the game of chess. A visit to the United States Chess Federation web site shows recent advances and lower prices on chess timers and quality sets and carrying cases. A complete set with clock and travel bag can be purchased for around $50, not bad. Hopefully these two will continue to improve and even participate in the annual Crab Festival Chess Tournament. Last year there was more interest in the scholastic level with only two participants in the adult section. So if you enjoy a game of chess, please spread the word so this year’s tourney is a success.

TRAVEL TIPS - CREDIT CARDS

The Perspective received his travel documents with planning advice from the tour operator. One suggestion was to alert your credit card agency of your travel plans. Several years ago when the perspective was visiting family in Ohio, and doing some shopping, the store got a call from the credit card agency to verify who was making out of state charges. The Perspective was able to satisfy the inquiry and continued his travels without further incident. It was very gratifying to know that the credit card agency was diligent to protect against fraud. If you are planning any international travel, notifying your bank is even more important, as they could suspend your account due to out of the ordinary charges.

KMXT VOLUNTEER BOWLING PARTY

Chris Provost picks up a baby split.

KMXT Volunteers enjoyed an afternoon at Tropic Lanes Bowling Alley. Attendance was small due to the glorious weather, but those who came enjoyed bowling and pot luck.
The Perspective, who once owned his own bowling ball and shoes, threw an alley ball for 5 consecutive strikes on his way to the high game of the afternoon (191), and was dubbed “The Kingpin” by board president Billy “The Rockfish” Heckler. Thank you to volunteer coordinator Lori Siebe for organizing this fun event.

The next event will be The Gong Show on Saturday, March 31. If you have a 3 minute act call to sign up at 486-3181. Information available at the KMXT Blog.

DIAMOND JIM’S DEMOLISHED

A sad day in Kodiak as the building that formerly housed “Diamond Jim’s Bar” the smallest bar in Alaska was demolished this morning. The 20 x 20 bar boasted that it could seat 40 people (8 at a time). Kodiakans will remeber the building for the numerous signs and decorations that adorned the outside of the building. The Perspective went there occasionally for Monday Night Football. The bar closed several years ago when the owners moved to warmer climes. The building was only briefly occupied after Diamond Jim’s closed. No word yet on plans for the use of the site. The mantle of Kodiak's “little bar” has been passed to the Tropics Lounge.

SPRUCE UP YOUR WARDROBE FOR SPRING

Springtime is a time of renewal, time to start planting your garden, time to clean the house, time to put away the heavy winter clothes and adorn ourselves in lightweight pastels.

A wonderful way to start is with some new bow ties. Just in time for St Paddy’s day, the smart looking leprechauns will be sporting the “Dubliner” from the Bow Tie Club. Learn to tie your own or get one pre-tied, the bow tie is back in fashion.

WINDS OF MARCH

It is said that March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. Here in Kodiak March is when winter gets blown away. High winds return just before the vernal equinox causing people to bundle up against the chilling winds and walk, not so much upright as leaning into the forces of nature. Soon the day will outlast the night and the season of growth will be here.

WILD OATS
by Robert Penn Warren

I am sowing wild oats
on rocky hills and steep,
and when my harvest ripens
I shall not be here to reap.

But the four wild winds shall winnow
and the sun and rain shall reap;
and they shall glut my storehouse,
but I shall be asleep.

PLEASE DON”T BURY ME

Are you looking for a way to honor a loved one that is not as macabre as an urn on a mantle? Why not consider Life Gem? Using the carbon from your loved one’s hair and using heat and pressure a gem can be made in about 24 weeks. Isn’t jewelry a nice way to remember mom, dad, or even fido. Life Gem, memories made precious.

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME

Last night the Perspective attended the Kodiak Arts Council’s Art and Adventure Auction at the Golden Anchor on the Coast Guard Base. Having been under the weather all week, the Perspective was lucky to have a friend invite him to the event. There were many fine pieces in the outcry auction, as well as a room full of smaller items in a silent auction. Kodiak Konfidential writer Ishmael went home with several items, “It is a great way to stock up on gifts and support the Arts Council”. Door prizes were handled in a unique way. Each person was given 5 tickets and could choose which door prize(s) they wanted a chance to win. One could try for 5 different prizes, or tip the scales by putting 5 ticket in for one prize (or any combination).

Volunteers were dressed in fisheries finest, except for the lovely “Vanna” girls who presented each item on the block.

Posters around town advertised the event, but sadly there was no mention on either of the community calendars on the web pages of the Kodiak Chamber of Commerce, nor KMXT, Kodiak’s Public Radio station. This fund raiser in not even featured on the Arts Council web page. Despite this handicap, attendance was sizable and the bidding was brisk.

The Perspective took home a door prize and 2 auction items.

BEING SICK SUCKS

The Perspective has been down this week with a sore throat, severe congestion, and general weakness. No fun at all. After many steamy showers to clear nasal passages, doses of effervescent capsules, and plenty of chicken soup, the Perspective appears to be on the mend. The throat is still scratchy, and the nose is raw from too many tissues, but the Perspective is feeling a bit better this evening.

A friend noted that for the amount of time spent dealing with the public and being exposed to their germs, the Perspective is lucky he doesn’t get sick more often. He is lucky, and hopes that you are healthy.

BARACK OBAMA: THE AUDACITY OF HOPE

The contenders for the next presidential election have started emerging from the woodwork. On the democratic side the two garnering the most attention are Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

Despite having almost no interest in national politics, the Perspective has read Mr Obama’s book, “The Audacity of Hope”. The book outlines Mr Obama’s thoughts on government and American policy. He tries to portray himself as someone willing to listen to multiple viewpoints and willing to compromise, but in every hard example in the book he is always right or the democrats are always right and the republicans are always wrong. Early in the book he says that this is exactly the problem in Washington.

Whoever gets the bid in the democratic party, Hillary or Barack, either will face a great challenge, neither a woman nor a black man has run for this countries highest elected office. Is America ready to make such a leap? The Perspective doesn’t think so. By mounting a campaign, it will break down some of the barriers though, and will lead eventually to the election of either a woman or a black or maybe a person of Hispanic descent. In the meantime look forward to 4 more years of the GOP.

CRIME IN KODIAK (POLL)

There was spirited voting in the crime poll with 54 of the readers giving their perspective. Tinted windows were indeed the most worrisome crime with 14 votes (26%), followed by Drugs (11 votes 20%), and litter (9 votes 17%).
Alcohol related crimes edged out expired tags 7 votes to 6, bicycles downtown (4), and domestic abuse (3). Larceny and murder/rape did not receive any votes.

According to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Program, Kodiak with a population of 6,343 had 36 reports of violent crime, all of which were aggravated assault, no murder, rape, nor robbery. There were 271 incidents of property crime, 16 burglaries, 238 larceny/theft, 17 vehicles stolen, and 3 cases of arson. These are the statistics for 2005 when the Kodiak Police Department employed 34 people, 18 officers and 16 civilians.

The Perspective is of the opinion that litter is the most serious crime problem in Kodiak. We chose to live in the most beautiful place and then despoil it with litter. How much effort does it take to put your trash in a waste receptacle? Keep Kodiak beautiful.

Total crimes in Kodiak in 2005 were 307 or less than one each day. Just another reason why Kodiak is a great place to live.

COUNT THE EAGLES

On the way to the Harborside Coffee this morning the Perspective noticed that there was a lot of activity in the air, birds were circling. The Alaska Beauty was tied up at Oscar’s dock attended by many eagles. A sea lion was swimming nearby and the odor of fish was in the air. Just another beautiful day in Kodiak.

THE LATEST $1 COIN TO CIRCULATE (NOT)

Can you name the three persons depicted on $1 coins in the later half of the 20th century? Yes, there were three. The US Mint today issued the 1st of the new Presidential series of one dollar coins featuring George Washington on the obverse and the statue of liberty on the reverse. The mint plans on issuing 4 designs each year to honor our presidents.

Dollar coins have found favor in Canada, when the treasury stopped issuing the paper version of the dollar bill. The coins became so popular that Canada issued a $2 coin which is also popular. Here in the States, the dollar coin has failed miserably because the treasury still prints the dollar bill. So why hasn’t the US Treasury figured out why the “loonies” and “twoonies” are so popular while the US versions sit in treasury vaults.

Coins may have an initial higher cost, but remain in circulation far longer, and eventually cost less than the constant printing of the dollar bill.

The 3 people featured on the dollar coin were Dwight D Eisenhower, Susan B Anthony, and Sacagawea.