This is Key West!

As reported in a Citizens’ Voice comment this morning: “A big thank you to Scott, a bus driver for Key West. My wife fell on College Road and hit her head. Scott stopped, helped her up and onto the bus along with myself and two dogs. He then transported us to the hospital and escorted my wife inside.”

Key West is embarking on a new plan to make its streets safer. Hopefully for more than pedestrians.

E-bikes and electric scooters the motivation.

Bicyclists a problem that should be given renewed consideration. Dedicated areas, pathways, have helped only minimally.

The actual solution an impossible one: Wider streets. Key West streets were not intended for all that use them: Cars, bicycles, electric scooters, etc.

Bicycles must be accommodated. They are an integral part of the Key West transportation system. A way of life for many. Their sole means of transportation.

Many the day I drive my car with my heart in my throat. On Duval and Simonton, especially. Fearful of striking a bike rider. Even on the streets where special lanes were marked several years ago for bicycle riders. For some reason, most wobble in and out.

The federal government is giving $13 million to the Key West International Airport project. The money is coming from President Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure law passed last year.

On this day in 1976, drug convicted Fire Chief Bum Farto was reported missing by his wife. The situation gave rise to “Where are you Bum Farto?”

The year 1941 in the Key West area contained a Naval Base with a huge contingency of sailors. The fishing industry was booming with its sailors.

A need developed. One common to any area with many men and few women. Sex. Prostitution arose to satisfy the need.

The Navy was constantly upset. On the back of local authorities to rid the area of what they considered an evil. Morality became an issue. Health, another.

Alice Reid was a madam with a thriving house of ill repute business. She and her girls were constantly arrested by local gendarmes.

On this day in 1941, two ladies were arrested and charged with vagrancy at Alice Reid’s house at 1016 Howe Street.

Another Florida legislative bill has been filed that reeks of authoritarianism and Gestapo type tactics. The bill would require bloggers who write about the governor, his cabinet and legislators to register with the State.

The bill is titled “Information Dissemination.”

The bill also requires the blogger, if paid, to identify by whom and how much. Financial penalties are involved.

What happened to Free Speech?

My admonition to Florida political leaders: If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen!

Enjoy your day!