At this juncture I will not get into the endless or mindless media speculation as to why Sarah Palin is stepping down, nor will I use this particular post to dissect the politics of the matter. It suffices to say that I appreciate the governor’s current efforts to downsize the number of people in government, and I personally thank her for renewing my awareness of the great state of Alaska. Too often we in the lower forty eight forget that America is much more than just about the events that occur in New York, Los Angeles and Washington DC.
Since John McCain thrust Mrs. Palin onto the national stage, I have spent many more hours watching Captain Sig Hansen of the Northwestern haul Opilio crab out of the Bering Sea on the TV series, Deadliest Catch. As of late, many an evening has been spent watching the Ice Road Truckers make the run from Fairbanks to Dead Horse on Prudhoe Bay. And as Alaska’s award winning broadcast journalist and popular television host, Geo Beach likes to say,”Things really are Tougher in Alaska.”
Sadly, those tough conditions have brought about the demise of another Alaskan lady. Alice’s Champagne Palace in Homer is no longer functioning as a regular bar. What the future holds for this legendary club and watering hole is uncertain; but this popular institution has overcome adversity and hard times in the past.
We look forward to a time once more when musicians like Ellis Paul will sing her praises, and raise a glass to those that don’t quit until the last load is delivered, the last pot is hauled on board
and the last crew safely finds their way back home.
Sunrise View from the Ocean House Inn - Homer, Alaska
Click here to enjoy Ellis Paul singing ”Alice’s Champagne Palace“
Special thanks to the crew at the Ocean House Inn for providing the glorious sunrise image.
Posted by: Chris Poh
