March & April 2010
Dave Hollis: Dave is about as far away from the “ice” as you can get this winter. He’s presently in Hawaii, basking in the sun and doing whatever McCarthyites do when they visit these warmer climes. It seems to be a popular gathering spot for local folks. Here is Dave’s “item” in his own words:
“Aloha from the big Island! I’ve been having a great time in Volcanoes National Park —playing with the Hawaiian goddess of Fire Pele, she’s hot! I’ve explored the isle with McCarthy friends, including Terry Blosser, Diane Malik, Spuddy, and JT. Terry and I had an amazing experience helping dig up a very rare Hawksbill Turtle nest, then releasing the just-hatched baby turtles to the Pacific Ocean.”
Thanks for the beautifully-illustrated poster and map of the area, Dave! We’ll expect to see you back in the neighborhood come springtime.
John Denver Tribute III: Writing about “Hollis” reminded me to remind you about the John Denver Tribute III which is scheduled for June 18, 2010, at 6 p.m., in Kennecott, Alaska. On the agenda is a potluck dinner and social, movie clips from “Alaska—America’s Child” and a live concert featuring John’s music. For further information you may email: info@wrangells.org or phone 907-554-4464.
Mark Wacht: Mark is back in the neighborhood after spending a couple months “outside” visiting family and friends. He celebrated Thanksgiving in Texas with his mom and other family members, then climbed Texas’ highest mountain in Guadalupe National Park— to the tune of 8,749 ft— with a friend, Alysson Jones.
Before heading home, he made a trip to the northern part of Mexico, visiting other family members.
Since returning to his cabin south of McCarthy, across McCarthy Creek, he’s been putting miles on his new SKIDOO “Backcountry” snowmachine. When he’s not out and about playing in the snow, his winter projects include installing new tile in his kitchen which should pretty well complete the downstairs, he says. Another home project is the building of a woodshed/shop combination.
Springtime, which is just around the corner, is designated time for “cutting firewood.” Mark is one of those who plans ahead and likes to get his winter firewood supply in before summer begins. His summers are busy working for the National Park Service. He figures this is his 10th season to work in Kennicott.
In the meantime, Mark is making the most of the remaining winter months and thoroughly enjoying the warmth of impending spring!
Wedding blessings: We extend our blessings and best wishes to Tracey (Gressel) and Aaron Gerrard who married on November 28, 2009, in Valdez where they are presently living. Many of our local folks know Tracey, her brother Carl, and their mother Michelle Casey, who owns property and a cabin on the west side of the Kennicott River. Congratulations, Tracey and Aaron!
Ladies’ Cookie Exchange—2009: McCarthy area ladies gathered for the 14th annual cookie exchange at the home of
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