Donald Trump has spoken: “We’re in the oil business…..we’ll be selling oil.” He claims the U.S. will remain in Venezuela until the country is safe, proper and judicious. Until it is able to transition to something. Probably and assumably an oil or oil companies.

What happened to the fentanyl?

Who is Trump kidding? The oil will stick to his hands and those of his family for many many years, if not forever. The Trumps know a good thing for themselves when they see it.

The U.S. Border Patrol also got into the fray in Minneapolis. Attacked high school students as they were leaving to go home. The scene descried as “animalistic.” Students beaten, even those on the ground. A viciousness which kept escalating. Provocation for the attack lacking. Schools closed for the balance of the week.

Is this the U.S.? Trump resign! Congress throw him out alternatively! Whatever, his time to go was yesterday. Get rid of him. Our country going downhill under his rule. The worst President I have seen in my 90 years.

A Minneapolis woman was shot and killed by an ice agent as she was driving. A mother of 3 and a poet. Trump, Vance and Noem lying about how her killing occurred. Covering their asses. The FBI is keeping State officials out of the investigation.

My America? Your America?

Republican defections in House and Senate votes increasing daily. Trump has to be getting nervous. The noose is tightening. 

Think about this. The U.S. does not need Venezuela’s oil. Which means Trump is going after it to enrich his own pockets.

Trump is sick. His knowledge and understanding of national and international laws nearly non-existent in many respects. He now claims very clearly that the only limit on his global powers is his “own morality.” Trump judging himself. The King judging his own actions.

This “my own morality” is one of the arguments Trump is using to brush aside international law in his attempt for the U.S. to own Greenland.

Trump does what he wants. Till now. Everything collapsing in around him.

His family gaining financially. Which means Donald himself doing so. He will benefit from those riches when he is out of office.

Hollywood has returned to Key West.  Filming a movie. Basically about Key West and the Keys. Only one day of shooting outside the Keys. 

The City of Key West an oldie. It was incorporated this day in 1828.

Canada is standing strong against the U.S. It believes the U.S. has become guilty of “Gangster Fascism.”

While getting a haircut yesterday, I ran into Aaron Whecter. If I spelled his last name incorrectly, I apologize. One of my first Key West friends. We have not seen each other in years. We both hope to remedy that loss.

We need an old type, old time President. That person is Mark Kelly. A U.S. Senator, former astronaut and 25 year Navy veteran.

Another Trump we need not.

Enjoy your day!

I have been up since 5 this morning working on this and that. Today’s blog one of the items. Never completed my research till now. Ergo, the blog is late today. Sorry.

Trump is now a minor part of Mar-a-Lago. A very minor part. Perhaps merely a room. The New York million dollar lawsuit he lost plus its significant interest has finally resulted in the New York Attorney General being able to levy on the property to help satisfy the New York debt owed by Trump.

I would not be surprised in Trump Towers and other Trump properties soon follow in a similar vein.

The world is catching up with Donald!

Maduro winning the Venezuela battle at this point from his New York cell. What the world sees is Trump wants Venezuela and may improperly have taken it. He may be improperly holding on to it. Many American nations, European and Asian ones also, are standing together against the U.S.

Trump miscalculated. Four days post taking, no one seems to be standing with Donald in supporting the U.S. action, except Trump and his hoods.

An international meeting is scheduled for Monday. I suspect the U.S. is going to be deservedly abused big time.

Pope Leo is reducing the manner in which Christmas henceforth is to be celebrated. The world is reacting with anger and confusion.

Leo said he is not canceling Christmas, he is merely indicating “sacrifice,” not “celebration,” is what Christmas should be.

Leo believes Christmas has  been an expression of “wealth.” Claims it should not be. Believes we need more help for the poor and attention to their needs.

I do not agree with him. I give big time to those in need at Christmas. I believe the U.S. affluent generally do. Perhaps such is not the case in Peru or other lesser countries that Leo has served.

My advice is do not try to change what is working in the U.S. Do so in other places if you can actually see the need is required.

I speak from 90 years of experience. The Pope his lifetime also. He may be wrong in this instance. I fear he may be reacting in Chicago fashion. Mafioso style. Jump in and do what you believe is correct when it may not be.

Syracuse beat Georgia Tech in basketball Tuesday night 82-72. Syracuse having another topsy tury season. Winning some, losing some. Nothing to get excited about.  Its record now 10/5. Georgia Tech was an “equal opponent.” Its record now 10/6. 

I recall some of the Boeheim days. We had great basketball teams.  Boeheim only faltered near the end of his career. I rarely missed a basketball or football game for 20 years. I had a private box seating 16 with a bar and server. The were fun games, even if Syracuse lost. I followed the basketball team everywhere, especially New York city. Also wherever and whenever Syracuse was playing a big game. Even did four Final Fours.

I was a fan!

Those were the days!

The Senate blocked Trump’s takeover of Kennedy Center. Good bye to Donald’s name on the building and I assume his self-appointed Board of Directors.

Some oil firms say they are owed billions for earlier Venezuelan investments. Companies like Exxon Mobile and Concord Phillip claim the money is owed for investments some two decades ago.

Proof Trump did not do his homework. Probably no homework re the insurance companies before he attacked Venezuela and captured Maduro. His months of “planning” were not sufficient. The “smart man” shot from the hip again without adequate research.

Trump’s next job? To hear him talk, he might consider giving up the Presidency to have a full time job at Kennedy Center. Perhaps as its Director.

God luck, Donald! No one is going to want you!

Jack Smith will bury Trump. Trump knows it.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in a recent White House meeting told Trump “to shut up!” He was upset Trump was knocking Obama and did not understand Canada was not for sale.

A Minnesota ICE person shot a Minnesota woman to death as she was operating her car. A perfect example of ICE being weaponized.

Trump has to go! ICE has to go! Most if not all Trump’s programs must go! 

We must return to the normal U.S. we once knew.

Videos show the ICE agent who did the shooting lied. Trump appears to have done so also, as well as Homeland Security Secretary Noem.

Forget not Mark Kelly. Honest and dependable. Experienced in many ways. Would make a great President!

Enjoy your day!

The world is screwed up. Getting worse by day. Primarily caused directly and indirectly by Trump. The falling and disarray of an American President sufficient to blow up the good achieved since World War II.

Some of what is going on.

Trump and Rubio have made much to do about taking down Venezuela. Next may be Cuba, An easy one. Small. Only 90 miles from the U.S. Key West military prepared to pounce. Appears Trump and Rubio working on it.

Woe be Trump and Rubio. Woe be us. One war after another will lead to many. Bombs and adversarial soldiers on the ground will occur on U.S. soil. Many Americans will die. We may lose a generation of our young. I fear for Robert and Ally.

Hegseth playing/doing Trump’s dirty. His attack on Mark Kelly the most recent. By attacking Kelly, Hegseth is helping Trump to early get rid of  a possible 2028 Presidential candidate. Kelly a good man whose principles are basically diametrically opposed to Trump’s.

Kelly too strong and respected. Hegseth will bite the dust on this one.

Pope Leo XIV will not tolerate adversity to the Papacy and himself directly. Forget not that the Papacy is a government also. As such it has members near the top who believe they have been God appointed and are equal to the Pope in power. Over the years they have become a Papacy within the Papacy, answerable only to the themselves.

The Jesuits are such a group. The top seven Jesuits who are Cardinals and operate within the Church’s government in Rome decided to take on Leo. Set the record straight so to speak as to who was boss and who merely a figurehead.

Leo said up yours in effect. Took them on immediately and publicly. Fired the top seven Jesuit Cardinals in the Papacy, he expelled them from the Papacy the same day. No longer would they operate from within as they had done for years. Threw them out. Arranged for temporary sleeping quarters elsewhere. Even fired the head of the Jesuit order internationally, appointing a new person to lead them. A person of his choosing.

I like Leo. He is Pope and is exercising his leadership role. He will not tolerate those who abuse him. He meets them head on and deals with them as he did the formerly all powerful Jesuits.

Go Leo! Do the job as you see fit. Do the job you were elected to do. As you are doing. Meet opposition strongly as you have.

Trump is doing well with Canada! A joke! He has destroyed a forever strong relationship in a small time.

Canadian Artic Waters an example. Belong to Canada. Permitted the U.S. to use them. The U.S. always claimed the water belonged to the U.S., their right to use proprietary.

Canada has obviously become pissed with the U.S. The U.S. forbidden to use Artic Waters. Probably will have to pay. The loss a $900 billion one annually. Includes the vast minerals available. Gold and diamonds big.

What now, brown cow? Trump is hanging on a wire fence by his testicles. War?

Would you believe? The White House is in the process of or has already published a website that REWRITES the history of the January 6 attack.

How can Trump even conceive he will get away with it. Five years later!

Another nail in the coffin.

Elon Musk’s Grok.com is flooding the internet with sexually explicit photos of women and minors. He must be advised to cease and desist. What he is doing is a misuse of AI generated content.

Trump has halted $10 billion in social services to 5 Democratic states, Note, only Democratic states. President of ALL the people?

Thank you Donald and JFK Jr. Recommended childhood vaccines are to be reduced from 17 to 11. Experts say “children will die.” Children’s lives more precarious than they have to be.

Oil companies not rushing in to meet Trump’s claims re what they would do in Venezuela. I doubt they will invest their monies. If Trump wants money invested it will have to be American tax dollars. Another example of Trump speaking without researching an issue. He shots from the hip too often.

If the U.S. tries or does take over Greenland, it will be the end of NATO. How destructive Trump has been and will be. Plays right into Putin’s hands.

One of Trump’s most trusted aides is Stephen Miller. A whack job in his own right. He says the world must be governed by “force.” The U.S. needs this type advice like a hole in the head! Trump’s advisers primarily Hitlerite’s.

On this day in 1927, the Harlem Globetrotters played their first game. I recall in my grammar and high school years they visited Utica once a year. My Dad always took me.

Many Presidents had strange pets. Jefferson two grizzly bears for a time. Coolidge racoons, a donkey and a bobcat. Van Buren a pair of tiger cubs, Theodore Roosevelt a badger and hyena. 

History speaks! Galileo discovered the first three Jupiter moons this day in 1610.

Hegseth took his best shot against Kelly. I think he whiffed. Kelly will bury him before he is done.

Continue keeping Kelly in mind as our next President in 2028.

My cancer wound getting worked on. Some pain. Visited with Dr. Blass yesterday afternoon. He is pleased with the progress. Another visit this afternoon to get a new type bandage.

Oh, the pain! The worst I have experienced in my lifetime.

Enjoy your day!

So much happening! My thoughts everywhere. Random thoughts. I share them with you with no particular order. Merely as they popped up in my mind and then my notes. 

The Doncom doctrine. Trump’s substitute for the Monroe Doctrine. Will represent his take over of Venezuela and in the near future the attempted takeover of other nations. The American people will not stand for it!

Trump is a sinking ship. He is taking on water every day. He cannot remain afloat for a full 4 years. One way or another, he will sink.

The Oxford Dictionary has announced its new word for 2025: Rage Bait. Actually two words. Means the supposed effect of low quality control on the brain. Confusing. First time I heard of it was yesterday. Who speaks or writes it?

Scientists finally know what is actually happening when your mind goes blank. Scientists call the phenomenon “mind blanking.” A new study suggests a distinct mental state, separate from daydreaming or distraction. 

There is a cure for Alzheimer’s disease in humans in the making. The first step has been reached. Scientists have reversed the disease in mice.

Adult cremation is not new. Archeologists have identified the earliest adult cremations. Go back 9,500 years to Malawi in Africa. It is the oldest in situ adult pyre in the world. A unique approach. The head was removed before the body was burned.

Trump failed to timely appear for his recent 11 a.m. news broadcast. The one American people were interested in hearing. Concerned attacking Venezuela and capturing Maduro and his wife. Trump was 39 minutes late. Reflected a disrespect for Americans.

The broadcast took place in the Mar-a-Lago Tea room. A first time there for me.

Trump claims Venezuela “stole our oil.” I didn’t know. How? When?

He also said, “We couldn’t let them get away with it.”

If they stole it, why did he wait so long to recover it? Also, why didn’t he do something earlier? Why didn’t other Presidents do something to get the “American oil back?”

The truth be known, Trump is acting like a thief. The oil belongs to Venezuela and not the U.S.

Interesting. On January 1, 2026, copyrights for comic books, movies, musical compositions, and creative works from 1930, as well as readings from 1925, expired. We can now use things like Betty Boop, Nancy Drew, and the Maltese Falcon for free.

Senior sex lives after 65. Forty percent are active. Most satisfied. Men more interested. Women may be satisfied. For men, using it or losing it appears to be true.

A confusing problem. Seizing Maduro was quick. On the other hand, fixing Venezuela’s oil production will take years.

Rubio disappoints me. He’s a pretty boy with an evil mind. He said a couple of days ago that a military “quarantine” on some oil exports will remain in place to continue placing pressure on Venezuela’s leaders. This was before Maduro’s overthrow. 

He is coming off as one of Hitler’s aides.

We do not need Greenland! We have done well with the way things are for years. Donald is playing Adolph once more. What’s wrong with Trump?

He is truly sounding more like a Hitler type with each passing day.

Cuba may be next for Trump. An easy takeover. He is crazy! Look for war. I fear more may be coming. Hope I am wrong. The American people do not want wars. Neither does most of the world. In a short time, Trump has failed the U.S. and rest of the world.

Foreign nations and the Pope also fear Trump inspired wars around the corner. For example, Trump said Greenland will belong to the U.S. in 2 months. Smells of a war!

Donald may not realize it. However, he is more and more being a hothead. Why? Does not make sense. Threats, pressure and threats of annexation not part of the free world. Get off this kick, Donald!

Canada even in Trump’s sight. He’s nuts!

Even the Catholic Church is in turmoil. A group of 20 Cardinals sought to diminish Pope Leo’s power. They failed. Leo survived the onslaught. Spoke as God’s man on Earth. He spoke and acted as if God was so acting. An interesting story. Read it in detail. You will enjoy and find parts hard to believe.

The Papacy is a nation and government. It has had problems for several years now. Problems similar to lay nations. Men will be men.

A UN Security Council yesterday morning condemned Trump’s actions re Venezuela. Trump’s adminstration responded bullshit in effect. Makes me uncomfortable. U.S. respect for other nations falling apart. It is Trump against the rest of the world. As was Hitler.

The House has returned for January business. Guess what? Only 12 days of formal work scheduled. Does not make sense. One thing we need is a new budget by the end of January. The House is Republican controlled. When are they going to get off their asses and take back their power from Trump?

How does Trump invading Venezuela and capturing Maduro make American lives better? It does not. It may enrich Trump, Rubio and their friends in the final analysis, however.

A check on Trump is required. Constitutional ones sufficient. Republican Congress controls. They must function as the Constitution  intended. Not as a group of persons scared silly of Trump. Grown men at that.

Rubio has achieved the prominence he sought. Had to sell his soul for it, however. A pretty face with a sick mind.

How will the U.S. Senate vote if the issue of American troops on the ground arises to protect American oil interests in Venezuela?

Trump’s people fear Mark Kelly. The are seeking to defrock him of past glories earned. His Navy benefits seeking to be stripped amongst other things.

As I have been saying for some time. He would make  great President. Trump and his allies know it and are seeking to soil and taint the man improperly beginning now. 

Watch the battle as waged. Kelly a stand up guy. He will win no matter what lies and bullshit Trump, Hegseth and other Republicans throw at him.

I had two nurse visits yesterday. Dr. Blass this afternoon for my cancer wound. Do not like it. Always hurts!

Enjoy your day!

Trump’s world is crashing around him. Judicially and economically. Piece by piece. 

Now this Venezuela thing. After years of crying fentanyl, his reason for taking down Maduro appears to be oil. 

Joke of jokes. Major oil companies will bear the expense. A route he generally takes. Someone else will bear the brunt economically. In the end, it is the American taxpayer.

Rubio concerns me in this scenario also. A good looking face does not necessarily reflect a proper mind.

Another Kennedy Center problem. One which will also boomerang on Trump.

Again I mention Mark Kelly for your consideration for the Presidency in 2028. We need a return to a “good person” for the office. Kelly’s credentials are noteworthy and appear without blemish. A U.S. Senator, former astronaut and 25 year Navy veteran.

Enjoy your Sunday!

Caracas attacked. Successfully Trump says. Maduro captured and flown out of his country. Perhaps his wife also.

Not certain whether Congress contacted and advised by Trump first.

Trump appears happy at the moment. A brilliant victory from his perspective. He will make an announcement to the Nation at 11 this morning with details.

The attack was early this morning. Other locations in Venezuela were attacked also. 

The attack pure stupidity from my viewpoint. For months we have been advised Trump’s claim of drugs coming out of Venezuela to the U.S. not true. No proof of the same.

As Trump is dying economically, it appears he is attempting to gain success and notoriety in another fashion. By actually initiating a war on another country’s grounds. He is a warmonger. Moving slower than Hitler did, but moving.

Attorney General Bondi said Maduro would receive “American justice on American soil in American courts.” She referenced an indictment in the Southern District of New York. Proper place to try Maduro?

I have a feeling Trump will come out of the attack as well as he has with his actions at the Kennedy Center.

Appears Trump is prepared to wage war against two Nations simultaneously. He is threatening to utilize American troops in Iran. His purpose to “protect Christians.”

Trump is crazy. He was not elected to wage wars. It was to help the poor, lower food prices, lower rental prices, and things of that nature. He spoke one way during the campaign and has acted in another since elected.

Key West weather warming up a bit. Not by much, however. High today will be 73. The night was in the mid 60s. Hopefully our day time temperatures will soon return to the 80s with the evenings in the 70s.

A Keys’ great is celebrating his birthday today. Howard Livingston. Happy birthday, Howard!

In his senior years, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has become a prolific writer. He calls them as he sees them. Right on!

Three recent observations.

First, an unasked for happening. The U.S. hit 2,000 measles cases for the first time in 2025. The first time in years. The U.S. hit the 2,000 number last years ago.

Another. Older adults are still sexually active. Not surprising. Surprise is sexually transmitted infection rates are on the rise.

Finally, the much older are enjoying sex. Even at 90, I am. 

The problem diseases. Chlamydia has tripled in the 65 and older. Gonorrhea has increased six fold, syphilis tenfold.

The “why” clear. Only 3 percent of adults aged 60 plus use condoms. Keep in mind, more older persons are divorced, singles adopt a new life style. A new type dating. Safety forgotten. And most importantly, the elderly are enjoying sex at a time they feared they would not. They “go for it!”

Venereal disease in one’s golden years can make those years less golden.

So much for today. 

I am anxious for 11 a.m. to arrive. Can’t wait to hear Trump lie and misrepresent.

Please continue to keep in mind Mark Kelley for President in 2028. He would not make the mistakes and create the problems Trump does.

Enjoy your day!

Key West is famous for many things. One are the “drops” New Year’s Eve. Certain restaurants and bars drop something or some person from high at midnight. It is Key West’s Times Square ball drop.

There are several. Three have gained prominence. 

One is the Bourbon Street Pub Shoe Drop. A drag queen dropped from the second floor of the hotel portion.

Another is Sloppy Joe’s. A dropping Conch Shell.

The third is Schooner’s Wharf. A pirate wench dropped down a boat mast.

All attract crowds. Huge crowds. Each a fun event.

Staying with Key West for a moment, a piece of history. Not involving a dropping whatever. Rather, girls’ basketball.

It was on this day in 1928 that it was announced the first girls’ varsity basketball team was being organized at the Key West High School.

Some Trump. Too much Trump. Problem he was all over the place yesterday and into today.

Trump continuing to screwing around with Iran. Trump appears to enjoy the blood of war, as long as not his nor that of a member of his family. 

Trump claims Iran killing “peaceful protestors.” Trump says if it continues, “the U.S. will come to their rescue.”

I have never made a New Year’s prediction. Feel compelled to do so today. It is that Donald Trump will not be President next year at this time. His “record” is coming apart.  His problems manifesting themselves. He probably will have departed the U.S. and will be living in a country without extradition.

Trump claims U.S. born workers are experiencing a job boom. Data reflects to the contrary. No way, Jose! A Trump lie, misrepresentation, and/or bullshit. Your choice!

Word is Venezuela’s Maduro is holding out the olive branch. Wants to talk with Trump.

Trump’s administration has terminated Washington, D.C.’s three public golf courses. The National Links Trust has operated the courses for the past 5 years. The lease agreement was for 50 years. However, the Department of the Interior cancelled last week.

What plan does Trump have for the courses? His name? Taking them over completely and making them part of his worldwide owned golf courses?

Why can’t Trump leave well enough alone?

Thank you DT and RFK Jr. For the first time in more than 30 years, the U.S. hit 2,500 measles cases in 2025.The last time 2,000 cases were exceeded was in 1992.

Miscellaneous matters.

Snow. Heavy snowfall will continue today in northern New York State. Syracuse will get some. Not as much as the past few days.

Oswego County is north of Syracuse. It is expected snow falling on Oswego County over the next 36 hours will be considerably heavier than Syracuse has experienced.

The winter problem for the Community of Oswego and the County of Oswego as a whole is that they border on Lake Ontario. Winters are hell! Cold and snowy. I know from experience. I tried many cases in Oswego. Big ones! Very cold snowy winters.

The accident cases were big. For a community of relatively low income, they thought big when it came to awarding dollars. In one case, I walked away with a $2 million settlement the first day of trial. Received several $1 million results. Six figure results were frequent.

Hershey Chocolate was founded in 1894. The company continues to have a long life. What’s better than Hershey Chocolate candy?

Tootsie Rolls and the Korean War. Would you believe?

It was the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. U.S. Marines were in trouble. Surrounded by Chinese and North Korean forces. Radioed for help. Requested 60-millimeter mortars. Ordered them by their code name “Tootsie Rolls.”

The Marines received boxes of real candy tootsie rolls.

The Marines ate them. Ordered more of the mortar kind.

The candy served more than the one purpose of being eaten. Some of the rolls were heated and used to plug holes in bullet-ridden cars and radiators.

In the end, the Tootsie Rolls helped the Marines survive the Battle.

On this day in 1865, Joe Namath spurned the NFL to sign a record deal with the AFL New York Jets. Turned out to be a smart move on his part!

Live and learn. A polar bear’s life generally lasts into the mid 20s. If the bear is confined and receiving constant care. Otherwise, the bear’s demise is earlier. 

An Ontario wildlife refuge recently held a “sweet 16” birthday party for one of its polar bears. His name Ganuk. Gifted him. An oversized driver’s license, a large toy car stuffed with tropical fruit, a pumpkin birthday cake, and wrapped gift boxes loaded with snacks.

A big day for Ganuk!

Roald Reagan was sworn in this day in 1967 as California Governor.

I had the privilege once of meeting the man. It was when he still was Governor.

I was a member of Miami’s Jockey Club for a number of years. So long that I was treated special. The maitre de saved the best table for me for dinner each evening. I rarely dined elsewhere.

One evening I came down to dinner. Walked “to my table!” Two couples were sitting there. I must have looked strangely at them. Asked me if something was wrong. Without thinking, I uttered “my table.”

By this time, I recognized one of the men. Ronald Reagan. I had heard he was at the club. Staying on a large boat in the marina.

Embarrassment prevailed! I was embarrassed by my stupid comment. They were embarrassed because they were guests in the club and had remained sitting long after dinner enjoying the ambiance.

By this time, the maitre de appeared. All flustered and embarrassed. To them and me. 

We all made nothing out of it. Shook hands around. I took a table next to them. Second best, but ok.

When Reagan and his party were leaving, Reagan stopped at my table to apologize again. A gentlemen. We talked for about 15 minutes. While his friends waited at the bar.

I complimented him for the fine job he was doing as California Governor. Told him I hoped he would have the opportunity to run for President. I Would vote for him even though I was a Democrat.

I did.

Ankle till painful. Swelling going down. Must go to buy a few groceries today. The refrigerator is down to one bottle of water and one inch of orange marmalade.

I read an article earlier this morning listing Democratic candidates for President in 2028. I was disappointed. Mark Kelley’s name did not appear. Politicos do not know what they are doing if he is not in the mix. From my perspective, he was better than any of those listed.

Enjoy your day!

Happy New Year 2026! May it be a better year than the last one. Depends if we continue to  have Donald Trump as President. Though I question how much better Vance might be.

Two major Supreme Court decisions yesterday. Both bad for Trump. 

Trump’s sending the National Guard into U.S. cities came to an abrupt end. The Supreme Court deemed it unconstitutional. Chicago significant in defeating Trump.

The other case sort of secret. Came out of nowhere. There is law which permits the Supreme Court to handle certain cases secretly. This was one.

It hit the news around 10 o’clock last night. Trump and his lawyers did not expect the decision. Word is Trump went crazy when he was made aware. The decision has to do with money. I do not understand all of it. One phase concerns Trump possibly having received foreign dollars to use in his campaign. A no no under American law.

The Supreme Court gave Trump 72 hours to reveal the financial information he has thus far failed to do. Otherwise he faces contempt and possible jail time. The Supreme Court was very clear about this.

I find it strange that neither the Washington Post nor New York Times carried information re this decision in today’s publications. Short staffed for the holiday?

Another item involving Donald was carried on some early morning TV news channels this morning. It claimed Trump’s private jet had set down in the Teterboro Airport in New Jersey to refuel. The plane was also subjected to a search. Lo and behold, suitcases were found carrying $30 million to $50 million in cash. 

Trump’s plane was being refueled for an 8-10 hour flight. Sounded like its destination was the Mideast.

Trump was not on the plane.

The news suggested it was illegal to take more than $10,000 out of the U.S. Possibly legal if certain filings had been made. None could be found.

I am not sure of the law as set forth in my previous paragraphs. Merely laying them out per my understanding of the news involved.

Trump was sponsoring a large New Year’s party at Mar-a-Lago when he received the news. Word is he terminated the party and sent everyone home.

So much for Donald. His New Year’s holiday might not have been the best.

Steve called me to go out with he and Cindy last night. I begged off. My ankle would not have handled it.

Laid in bed intending to watch the New Year come in on TV. Never made it. Fell asleep at 10:30. Woke at 5 this morning. A good sleep.

Some other pertinent news/events which occurred this day.

The ancient Roman calendar started the year in March.

Live and learn. When did we start putting ice in drinks?

Keeping drinks cool goes back 4,000 years. Before refrigerators and freezers, humans would get ice from mountain tops and bring it to their homes. Their it was stored in makeshift containers to preserve its “cold.” Used primarily in drinks.

A fad only available as a luxury and used primarily by the rich.

Walt Disney: “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

On this day in 1863, Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

On this day in 1818, Mary  Shelley’s  “Frankenstein” was published.

On this day in 1892, the first immigrants arrived at Ellis Island. My grandparents and my mother were certain of my ancestors who came to U.S. shores by arriving at Ellis Island.

The weather outside was frightful yesterday. Cold. Will continue to be cold today, though warmer than yesterday. Yesterday was in the high 60s. I was cold yesterday and last night. Not the Florida weather I opted for.

My person for President in 2028. Mark Kelley. A U.S. Senator, former astronaut and 25 year Navy veteran. Not a Donald Trump in any fashion.

Enjoy your day!

I met a Penelope yesterday. My first one.

I was at Date and Thyme for a smoothie. Packed! Never saw so many customers before. Had to be the holiday!

Got one of two corner seats. Sat next to a female. Much younger than me. Lovely. Her name Penelope.

We chatted. I shard my smoothie with her. She has been in Key West since 1985. Presently a waitress at Casa Marina. Sounded like she had been an employee there for a number of years.

Did a little research on the name Penelope. Derived from Greek mythology. The faithful wife of Odysseus, the legendary Trojan warrior. She waited 20 years for Odysseus’ return from the Trojan War. During that time she fended off suitors by promising to chose one after weaving a shroud for Laertes, which she secretly unraveled each night.

Practical Greek meaning of Penelope: With a web on her face. Penelope also means “duck.”

Thousands of women named Penelope. A mere handful of men so named.

Hope to run into her again. An interesting woman.

It was Dr. Blass for me yesterday at noon. He is caring for my post cancer ankle wound.

His check-up painful. I told him he was “hurting me.” He responded he was “helping me.” He was correct. Kept my mouth shut thereafter.

Following Dr. Blass and Date & Thyme it was home for the balance of the day. Primarily in bed. Pain all day!

In spite of the pain, I could see the wound healing. Still has a long way to go, however. Wound size reducing and pain, though severe, less.

Eating limited yesterday. Two smoothies and one Stauffer frozen fettucine. The pain keeps me semi-nauseous and lacking in eating interest.

New Year’s Eve. I shall remain in. Wound still healing. Would not take “walking abuse.”

TV will be my pleasure this evening. Assuming I am still awake at midnight.

In my lifetime, I rarely went out New Year’s Eve. Considered it “amateur night.” Preferred home parties and my golf club the Yahundasis in Utica.

New Year resolutions date back 4,000 years. To Egypt and the Babylonians of Mesopotamia.

The number of Americans who make New Year resolutions total 30 percent.

Glasses of sparkling wine downed in the U.S. each New Year’s Eve 360 million.

Days of the year in the earliest Roman calendar different from ours today. Theirs 304, ours 365.

“Auld Lang Syne” is the most frequently sung song in English. Auld Lang Syne goes back to the 16th century. Guy Lombardo gave it modern day popularity with the Royal Canadians.

Auld Lang Syne is is one of the top three frequently sung sons. The other two are “Happy Birthday” and “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.”

I find the Et Cetera section of “1440 Daily Digest” one of the best “go to” sections to read on a daily basis. This morning’s disappointed me, however. Not one thing interested me. Surprising!

The U.S., Trump inspired, has militarily attacked seven countries this year. Nothing to be proud of!

A honoree! Key West’s Daniel Castano Piedrahita has been awarded Junior Sailor of the Year by the U.S. Navy. Congrats local Key Wester!

Part of Trump’s long time “attack” on Minnesota’s alleged “fraud claims. His administration has halted children’s payments. Make the little ones suffer…..why not. They and their parents have little to fall back on.

Syracuse yesterday experienced its second biggest snowfall in 32 years. Twenty four plus inches. Lake snow. With more to come. The snowfall was Syracuse’s second largest in its recorded history.

The Supreme Court has taken the National Guard away from Trump. About time! I am fearful of even a gun, let alone another Army in his control. He has enough with the usual military which is under his control as President. He’s dangerous. Give him something and he will use it. Chicago did him in with the National Guard

Trump running Kennedy Center into the ground. Shows and performers cancelling. Only one show remains scheduled for the next six months.

Trump wants Canadian water for California. Canada refuses to supply water. Canada’s refusal probably would not have occurred were it not for Trump’s attitude and fault. You can’t piss on people and then come back to them for a favor.

Pete Hegseth screwed up. Claims windmills a threat to national security. Segseth following Trump’s dislike for windmills. Recall at some time in Europe Trump felt they were interfering with one of his golf courses. 

Hegseth sucking up to Trump to keep his job. Claims windmills in U.S. a “danger to national security.” Screw up the radar.

Such bullshit!

Keep in mind Mark Kelly. He would make a great President. A U.S. Senator and former astronaut.

Happy holiday! Do not overdrink. Enjoy waiting for midnight to roar in. 

I had three consecutive nights sleep amounting to no more than 2 hours each night. Generally from 4 in the morning to 6.

Not a way to live. Not a way to sleep.

Don’t know why.

Finally got a good nights sleep last night. Nine last evening to six this morning. The sleep of the dead. No dreams.

Woke to my Mother. I have an oil painting of her when she was about 60. It sits on the wall at the foot of my bed. Smiling down upon me. It was a pleasure waking to her and her beloved smile.

Ankle cancer surgery improving. See Dr. Blass early this afternoon. He will hurt me when he changes the bandage. The medication causes the bandage to stick to the wound. Oh, the pain!

Trump’s language lacking in Presidential flavor. Crude. Many times disgusting.

Trump spoke at a dinner Monday night at the Trump-Kennedy Center. He took a shot at those decrying the addition of his name. Said some like Dems could shoot their comments or shove their comments up their asses.

Trump tends to lie and exaggerate. A comedian recently suggested a possible new Trump lie/exaggeration: Trump saying, “He caught more shrimp in his mouth at a Benihana than any President in history.”

Go for it, Donald!

A recent internet comment…..If God made gay people, why is being gay a sin?

Excellent question.

The first razor with disposable blades was sold in 1903. One year later in 1904, the number of disposable blades had sky rocketed to 2 million.

London was devastated by German bombs early in World War II. Ninety forty was the worst year for the English. December 29, 1940 the absolute worst evening.

Bridgette Bardot died recently at the age of 91. A beauty in her day! One of history’s most prominent sex symbols.

A unique New Year’ Eve ball drop intended for this year. The ball will drop twice. The second ball will drop to honor America’s semiquence- ntenneal year.

New York City remains cold. Today at 46 degrees will be the coldest.

A Trump lie. He claims Washington, D.C. murders eliminated. Citizens say no, not true. Who knows best? He who sits in the White House or those who walk the streets?

Christmas in the Keys is the busiest time of the year. Amazing! Not surprising, however. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic heavy.

RKK Jr. has changed/eliminated some vaccines. Has made other medical alterations also. My gut tells me the error of his ways will be clearly obvious by the end of the year. The American public will feel them.

Things to come? Kansas City portends the future? One going to two rent strikes. Will it spread rapidly?

The Russian-Ukraine War is fraying Russian society. Putin has gone a few steps too far. Too many steps.

Word is Trump has U.S. troops on the ground in Venezuela. Where is Congressional authority? Why is Congress on break and not doing its job?

Trump and Netanyahu show “unity” as Middle East tensons rise. Unity will not last. Little lasts with Trump.

Cold weather will hit Central Eastern Florida Wednesday. Chill winds will drop to the 20s tonight.

On this day in 1922, the USSR was established.

A fire broke out on this day in 1903 in the Iroquois Theater in Chicago. Killed 600 people. The deadliest fire in U.S. history up to that time., Strangely, the building had been declared fireproof when opened in 1903.

The Key West Library. The place where Tennessee Williams and Jimmy Buffett read and recorded.

Tiger Woods was born this day in 1975.

Rudyard Kipling: “Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.”

Thieves made off with $400,000 of Costco lobsters. A major theft. FBI investigating.

New study reveals teen American girls do not show anger because they fear they will be disliked.

Another study revealed men 45 and older are lonelier than ever.

Keep Mark Kelly in mind for President in 2028. The man for the job!

Enjoy your day!