Bride Judy and I had the great pleasure of meeting "Alaska Mike" the other night. He is in Seattle all this week, working his job for the State of Alaska. Mike Nelson was gracious enough to host a small dinner gathering, which brought us together. Another very popular singer and friend John Weiss was also there, which rounded out the evening nicely with four singers. I always enjoy getting to know another singer in a smaller group as it really allows time to visit, tell stories and share songs.

And let me tell you, Alaska Mike" is someone you want to meet and trade songs with, if you ever get the chance. He's a blast. And he is not big ... he's HUGE. And he has the voice to match, a very stong robust voice that refelcts obvious traing. I especially enjoyed his diction.

And, what a songwriter. I so enjoy and appreciate people that can string those words together in such a way as to perfectly paint a picture, or cast a spell, or put you on the floor laughing. What a talent. You have to hear his latest song, "Iditarod."

We left with two of his CD's. Great listening. "Alaska Mike" has no idea that I'm posting this note, but I felt I had to do this. Somewhere toward the end of the evening, I mentioned something to everyone that caused a silent pause and then smiles: It is so GRAND when total strangers can meet, trade songs and stories, and leave after a few hours and feel like we've made a new friend."

I hope when he returns to out part of the lower 48, we can get together again. CHEERS, Bob(deckman)Nelson