[Prime Choice]

The intensifying rumblings in the past few weeks at Augustine Volcano, an island peak 175 miles southwest of Anchorage in Cook Inlet, have produced a series of steam explosions, releases of sulfur gas and signs that there may be an eruption similar to events in 1986 and 1976 which sent ash clouds as high as 40,000 feet, scientists said.

Okay, quick field poll.

How many of you remember the eruption and devastation of Mount St. Helens?

Alright, how many of you remember the eruptions and devastation caused by Augustine in 1976 and 1986?

I rest my case.

[Clara Lou]

I remember the '76 eruption because we lived in Eagle River. The biggest worry was what the ash would do to auto engines. I also remember some discussion of the effect of the ash on the Matanuska Maid dairy cattle. [I don't remember what that was about.] Same thing in '86. Hey, it makes a deliciously frightening news headline.