The Silvertip Grill is a rare business, indeed. In the mornings, families stream in to consume their deliciously famous breakfasts. James and I ate their reindeer dogs and buffalo brats with relish (or I should say catsup). In morning Eric Clapton Blues Festivals are jamming on the tubes above the bar. People saunter in to greet the staff on their way to work or to stay to eat and/or drink.

Judd owns the bar and works it with enthusiasm. He lives in an apartment connected to The Silvertip. (Talk about being close to your work). And that backyard area of the bar is something to behold and absorb.

The back yard of The Silvertip is my favorite aspect of the bar. To the right is a covered stage in the corner. Judd's apartment follows along the right boundary, then split trees comprise a fence like a palisade. A bench and a fire pit made of stones represent some of the utilitarian artwork out back. A dart board, horse shoe pit, and hula hoops provide recreational enjoyment.

During our stay, the Silvertip hosted a tremendous music festival which lasted from noon to midnight. Bands played continuously inside and out. The musicians were poetic and positive. All of the performers were known and loved by the crowd. One man was singing songs of love and freedom. The audience was live! Then he did a revolutionary act. He said, "How many of you have dogs?!" The crowd roared and pumped their fists in unison. "Well," he said, `This song is for your dogs!" Pandemonium ensued. I think Alaskans like their dogs.

A belly dancing troupe is very active in Girdwood. They seem to make it a point to be represented at all live musical performances in Girdwood. These dancers are terrific. The energy and flow are enhanced by their presence. One of them (a blonde) I saw at every event. One night I was listening to (and photographing) a band inside The Silvertip. There were about 10 people in the room including staff, customers, belly dancer, and band. My first photo of the band showed a remarkable shot of the belly dancer. I snapped photo after photo and they all came out superb. I showed the bartender and he agreed. I would be remiss by not including a picture of the blonde belly dancer of Girdwood, Alaska.