Valdez, Alaska – The Totem Hotel & Suites rose from the ashes and opened their doors at a Grand Opening Ceremony in Valdez Saturday Night. The Totem Inn and Restaurant was lost to a devastating fire in 2016. As the flames were extinguished, owners Mike Williams and Connie Ballow became aware that their life work had crumbled to ashes.

While many would walk away from such a devastating loss, Mike and Connie, who believe strongly in the economic future of Valdez, set out to rebuild the hotel in the picturesque rural community of Valdez surrounded by the majestic Chugach Mountains. Important to their plan was to using Alaskan contractors, Alaskan Labor, and Alaskan materials.

After two years enduring unpredictable, and at times harsh, Alaskan weather conditions the Hotel has risen from the ashes. Not only is the Hotel rebuilt by Alaskans, and succeeding in their plan using all Alaskan materials, but the Hotel comes with three floors of luxury and modern design. Through sheer perseverance and the love for Valdez, and Alaska, owners Mike and Connie have restored the Totem beyond its former glory.

“The upgrade of the hotel is significant, and we’re really proud of it”, said Connie Ballow. “It’s about pride of ownership”, said Mike Williams. “We had three choices (after the fire). One choice was to re-build like it was, the other choice was to take the money and run and leave a big hole in the ground and the third choice was to make it bigger and better”. Ballow and Williams chose to adopt a new business model, and re-brand as the Totem Hotel. The hotel features 65 guest rooms, a great room for events, a fitness room, pool, and the distinction of being the only hotel in Valdez with an elevator.

“We’re taking a leap of faith in both Alaska and Valdez”, said Williams. The hotel opened for the Valdez Fly In and Airshow on Mother’s Day weekend and all the rooms were full so the initial response has been excellent. The Mayor of Valdez Jeremy O’Neill officially cut the ribbon at the Hotel’s Grand Opening Saturday night and Valdezeans and visitors alike came by to take a tour of the hotel and wish the owners well.