If You're a Fan of Northern Exposure . . .
For those of you who are new to Alaska By Flip, let me explain something really quick:
For five years I was the morning weatherman on KTUU TV (NBC) in Anchorage, Alaska. I also hosted an outdoor adventure travel video for our website: www.GoToAK.com. I literally traveled all over the state of Alaska, experiencing every corner of "The Great Land". During that time, I don't think I encountered a friendlier city than the one you are about to see. If you ever wished you could live in Cicely, Alaska (the fictional town in the TV show Northern Exposure), then you need to move to Cordova, Alaska.
Cordova sits on the eastern edge of Prince William Sound, an area known for it's heavy rains and snows, and it's oil spills. You've heard of the Exxon Valdez oil spill, right? Well, Cordova was likely the most effected by the spill. A once thriving herring fishery is now dead. Many people's livelihoods were forever changed from that event.
Thankfully, the area has recovered and is now home to the world famous Copper River Salmon, which can sell for over $40 a pound in restaurants throughout the world. Copper River Salmon is known for it's deep color, and even deeper flavor. On opening day of the fishery, restaurants will literally have fillets flown down to them from as far away as New York City.
Cordova is also home to Copper River Fleece (www.copperriverfleece), which to me, is the Copper River Salmon of the outdoor clothing world:
If they look familiar, it's probably because you've either seen Sarah Palin, or US Senator Lisa Murkowski wearing their gear. It's truly the best blend of fashion and function that I've ever encountered in my life.
But let's get to the video. I went to Cordova to help them celebrate their 50th Annual Iceworm Festival in 2010. Besides serving as the emcee for their community wide talent show, I encountered everything that Cordova has to offer; great people, great food, extreme weather and the closest thing to that mythical northern town that you'll ever find. Oh, and don't forget to check out the "Survival Suit Races". Normal, rational human beings put on survival suits and intentionally jump in the Gulf of Alaska . . . in February:
The 51st Annual Iceworm Festival is coming right up! So get on the horn and call my buddy Marty "Whoop! Whoop!" Moe at the Chamber of Commerce and get your trip planned today!
Until we rub noses again!
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