Or is this just a couple of new vents? USGS isn't sure, but they'll be waiting for the clouds to clear so they can fly up there and get a look. Either way, these new plumes (probably new vents) are fairly close to Augustine. Augustine hasn't been erupting ash lately, but the steam cloud the past week or so has really been visible, and voluminous. Here is picture from the AVO web site, it sure is a pretty sunset picture and both new plumes are distinct.
Here is part of their report, the link on the left will take you to the whole thing.
"On Sunday, September 17, AVO received several reports of two discrete plumes rising from the Cape Douglas area, about 200 miles (320 km) southwest of Anchorage, beginning at approximately 8:15 PM AKDT (0415 UTC, September 18) and continuing until darkness. Analysis of satellite images shows that the plumes originated in the area of Fourpeaked Glacier, located between Fourpeaked and Douglas volcanoes. Photographs of the plumes show that they reached up to approximately 20,000 ft (6,000 m) above sea level. Satellite images show a cloud originating from Fourpeaked glacier area and persisting throughout the night. The cloud does not show an ash signature. The cloud traveled up to 12 miles (20 km) to the northeast."

Ginger People

Yep, it's happened. I found a new addiction. I found these candies in the Summit Spice store in Anchorage a couple of months ago. They were so good I went on line and ordered some more. Now I'm totaly addicted to these Ginger Chews. They're sweet & hot & spicy.

If you see a package in a store, think twice before you try them, you'll get addicted too!

http://www.gingerpeople.com

Toolik

I have some friends (and friends of friends) that I met in McMurdo working at Toolik this summer. For those of you who are interested, Toolik is approx 120 miles south of Prudhoe Bay. It is a research station mostly operate but the University of Alaska - Fairbanks.

Anyhow, Shannon sent me this picture today. I wish you could see it full page. It's gorgeous. It's taken from the lake in front of the camp. You can see all the fall colors on the tundra, and fresh snow on the mountains in the background.

If you want more info about Toolik, take a look at these links.

http://www.uaf.edu/toolik/

http://ecosystems.mbl.edu/ARC/