Just a few notes about the end of the Iditarod--they were not in till now.
Can't seem to pull up the photo's but will keep trying.

CINDY ABBOTT was the final musher into NOME. She is the red lantern recipient. The mushers banquet was over by the time she got in so no matter who comes after that celebration a banquet will be held for them as well. The following day there was the banquet for CINDY. No different from the one the day before--looked yummy and lots of it!! Everyone came back to celebrate with her.

At the Mushers Banquet they heard from all the mushers thanking those who had helped them and there were a few trail stories as well.

PAIGE DROBNY finished 27th, lost the trail and had to go back to UNALAKLEET. DEEDEE JONDROW helped her get back on track.

JEFF KING talked about how he got chased by a seal.

LANCE MACKEY thanked his Brother for his help--he said he couldn't have finished the race without him. He had tried to get him to leave his side but he never did.

RICK CASILLO came in 44th--He spoke about establishing Battle Dawgs Racing and teaming up with Alaska's Healing Heart, an organization servicing battled wounded and battle weary. Rick is dedicated to helping wounded warriors. "They are broken and they can be fixed".

HEIDI SUTTER (she was one we were following) finishing 48th talked about her first Iditarod, the experience, and thanked all those involved.

STEVE WATKINS finished 58th. (Marian you were following him) is a 90% disabled vet. He was an inspiration to all. He gave a shout out for all vets.

A thankful, fun and delicious event.

JOANNE POTTS, Assistant Director of the Iditarod and my friend, fell and got injured and was taken to the hospital in NOME. She commented on the great care she received. She is now recuperating at home.  We wish her a speedy recovery.