Steve, Cindy and several family members leave Sunday for a one month European cruise. Steve and Cindy understandably excited. Who wouldn’t be!

They fly first to Rome where they spend a day or two and then onto a cruise ship for the balance of the trip.

Steve is especially interested in Athens. Unfortunately only a one day stop. Where to go? I shared with him there is so much to do in Athens. A big city with so many great parts. Steve’s time limited, however. I told him only do one thing. Visit Acropolis! Forget everything else. It will take him 3-4 hours and he will be totally exhausted afterwards. Not to be missed, however. The only time he will be able to go to the top of the world and be in 300 B.C. The Parthenon, etc. is a once in a lifetime experience. Make it your lifetime experience!

We also have been discussing Rome. Steve and Cindy have been there before. They know Rome. I spent a month in the Rome area 45 years ago. 

I shared with Steve my experience at a Catholic nunnery convent also operated as a pensione in Rome. A Key West guest house. Hope they can find it. Steve was familiar with its location next to the Vatican.

I wrote a blog February 3, 2019 re my last three days in Rome. I share it with you today. Interesting to say the least.

                                                                                  A THING OF BEAUTY IS A JOY FOREVER

Forty years ago, I was concluding my first trip to Italy. A month long family trip. My wife, 3 daughters, 1 son and my parents.

I had rented a villa 45 miles south of Rome in a town called Livonia. The villa was on the Mediterranean. Livonia near Anzio where the Allied troops landed during World War II.

Rented 2 cars also. Utilizing the cars and trains, we traveled Italy.

The last full day of our trip found us in Rome. My group a bit smaller. My son and parents had left a week earlier. My son to begin studying for the bar exam, my parents to attend another grandchild’s event.

Left my wife, 3 daughters and me in Rome for three days.

Italy was undergoing terrible inflation at the time. One American dollar was the equivalent of 2,100 lire. A fortune! The American dollar could buy everything dirt cheap.

My wife made a proposal. She said give me $3,000 American money exchanged for lire. I want to buy clothes for the girls and me. Clothes, pocketbooks, shoes, etc. The works. I will not bother you for any money for one year for clothes for us, if you agree.

I agreed.

Took us all to the American Express office. Plopped $3,000 in Travelers Checks down. The man in the cage gave me lire in return. I do not recall the exact amount. I do recall it took 2 large brown paper bags to carry the money out. Remember, $1 was worth 2,100 lire.

I sat on the steps to the American Express office, organized the money and gave it to my wife. There was so much, she and the girls each had to carry a share.

Off they went. I was alone for a whole day. Not certain what to do, I walked around. Rome obviously an interesting place.

I tired and had sat on the Spanish Steps a while. Then up and began walking again.

Immediately next to the Spanish Steps on one side was a 3 story building. A small villa type structure. The bronze plaque next to the front door had emblazed thereon John Keats Museum.

I had studied Keats in college. An English poet. Wrote romantic sonnets. The line that came to mind was “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.”

Keats died prematurely at age 25 in Rome.

Turned out the building I was standing in front was the place where he had died. In his rooms on the third floor.

I went up to the third floor. Viewed the tiny room and bed in which he died. Reminded me of the room across from the Ford Theater where Abraham Lincoln died after being shot.

Keats’ writings were all over the place. Covered in glass. I walked around studying many closely. I came upon a a piece of paper that obviously had at one time been crumbled by someone. Written thereon were the words: A thing of beauty is a joy forever.

An emotional moment. The words and how composed.

Again Lincoln came to mind again. He had written the Gettysburg Address on a ripped off portion of a paper bag.

When I hooked up with my wife and daughters later in the day, I became extremely upset. The overabundance of lire had purchased an overabundance of goods. My ladies would dress themselves a lifetime on them!

What actually bothered me was there were so many boxes and packages. My immediate thought was it will take forever to get through customs.

Purchasing was not done. Bought several large suitcases. In the end, the number of suitcases and boxes going through customs with us would total 19.

Being anal, I took all the receipts, placed them in order, outlined them on a piece of paper.

There was an additional problem.

The three nights we spent in Rome were at a pensione. Run by an American order of nuns, commonly known as Black Franciscans. Their attire was black. Their “home office” was located in Syracuse, New York.

My cousin Rose who I wrote about several years ago when she died had been a Black Franciscan. So too was Sister Rose Vincent. Sister Rose (a different Rose from my cousin) was the administrator of St. Elizabeth Hospital in Utica.  A big shot in the Black Franciscan order. She had become a family friend over the years.

Black Franciscan nuns actually worked/operated the pensione. Since we were friends with Cousin Rose and Sister Rose, we were treated like royalty.

Due to the lire situation, I spent much less than I had anticipated during our month long stay in Italy. A donation was in order. I gave the nun who was in charge of the pensione $1,000. She refused to take it. Said she could not. We talked. She finally agreed to take the $1,000 if I agreed to let her use it to buy a new Blessed Mother. Their chapel needed one. So I helped in acquiring the new Blessed Mother.

A side story for a moment. A year later, a Utica friend and doctor’s wife visited Rome and stayed at the pensione. She was shown the Blessed Mother. She told me that at the foot of the statue were the words: By the grace of God and Louis Petrone.

Maybe the statue will be my ticket to getting into Heaven.

The tale not yet finished.

During the $1,000 conversation with the head nun another issue arose. The pension had a solid gold cross which belonged to the mother house in Syracuse. The cross was heavy. About a foot tall and 6 inches wide. She wanted me to take it to Sister Rose who would see it got to the mother house.

The good nun wrapped the cross in a box in front of me. I became curious and nervous. How was I going to get the cross through customs? She said no problem. She wrote on the box the same words that ended up at the feet of the Blessed Virgin: By the grace of God and Louis Petrone. No other verbiage, name and address from whom nor name and address identifying the person to receive it.

I said no way! She said don’t worry. Customs will not be a problem.

Who was I to argue with an emissary of God.

Our 19 suitcases and boxes now became 20.

We were standing in line in New York waiting to go through customs. The woman in front of us had just been taken away. She had an expensive watch in the lining of her fur coat.

I would be joining her soon with the gold cross.

The customs man looked at us and our 20 items. Our eyes met. I smiled and held up the list of receipts. He looked at me expressionless a few seconds and then put x’s on our bags and boxes and waved us through.

The good nun at the pension had been correct!

You may wonder why I write about Keats, our Rome experiences, etc. today (February 3, 2019).

I had several other items assembled to write about when I came upon a small article indicating that on this date in 1820, John Keats had his first bout of lung hemorrhaging which subsequently led to his death several months later. It bought to mind “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” Today’s blog the result.

Enjoy your day!

Bess Levin is always right on. An informative investigative reporter. Always a pleasure to read her articles in Vanity Fair.

Her recent article is: Trump Plans to Use an 18th-Century “Alien Enemies Act” for Mass Deportations. The article is dated October 15, 2024.

The article short and to the point. A portion is set forth.

“The law was previously invoked during the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II.

From the decimation of reproductive rights to pardons for people convicted of participating in the 2021 attack on the Capitol, there are many reasons to fear Donald Trump winning another term in office. Extremely high up on the list? His vow to “carry out the largest domestic deportation operation in American history,” which he apparently plans to do by invoking an 18th century law previously used during times of war.

Axios reports that the former President has been detailing the mechanism through which he would deport millions of people: The Alien Enemies Act of 1798, which was signed by John Adams and allows the government to detain and remove immigrants where there is “a declared war between the United States and any foreign nation or government.” The act, as the outlet notes, has been involved just three times – during the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II – and can also be used if “any invasion or predatory incursion is perpetrated, attempted, or threatened against the territory of the United States by any foreign nation or government.”

During a campaign stop in Aurora, Colorado, last week, Trump said he intends to us the 226-year-old law to target “every illegal migrant criminal network operating on American soil.” While it cannot be used against American citizens, the U.S.-born children of immigrants – including those who came to the country legally – could still wind up detained…..the Alien  Enemies Act is an archaic law that could be used to infringe on people’s Constitutional rights – which might explain why Trump’s a fan. In a statement the Trump campaign’s national press secretary told the outlet that the ex-President will indeed oversee mass deportations in a second term, adding he plans to use mechanisms like the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to do so.”

Scary. Old.

Trump says he is going to put the “bad” ones in jail immediately. Like the first day. Who are the bad ones” How is such determined?

Enjoyed last night. Did Happy Hour at The Grand with Steve and Cindy. Tuesday regulars there. Eddie and Christie. Matt bartending.

Surprise of surprises! Felt arms around my back and lips on my neck while I was sitting at the bar. It was Jean Thornton! I have not seen her in months. She is back for a while. Joe will be down next week.

I slowly am expanding my horizons re eating. Last night, a big step. Ordered a whole meal. Osso buco. The veal was delicious. The vegetables even better. For some reason, my taste buds are sensitive to taste. Some things so good! The vegetables were spectacular! As good as the Oreos and grilled cheese sandwich.

Swallowing still a problem. I work on chewing everything. Still screwed up one time with the veal. Had a difficult time because of it. Makes me wonder how babies and young kids learn they have to chew. Don’t think they do. It comes natural. However, when you’re 89 and have to learn again takes effort. I’ll get there.

Jean reminded me yesterday was the opening of stone crab season. We generally get together to enjoy some as soon as possible. I do not know whether I am ready yet. A lot of chewing involved.

This morning my annual primary care physical. Dr, Norris the man!  I am blessed. I have two great professionals overseeing me. Norris and April Gallagher. I have had the best in New York and Boston treat me. All good, none better than these two. I am lucky.

At 89, if it isn’t one thing, it’s another. We got my heart under control. Now its my back, groin and left thigh. Frequent pain the last 6 weeks. I stopped physiotherapy because the pain was increasing with each session. Norris has ordered an MRI of my lower spine. No problem at my end. The pain has become frequent and occurs off and on daily. 

My heart problems taught me a lesson. I thought I knew everything. Every time it was suggested my heart might be having problems, I waived it off. Did not test further. Smart ass me was wrong. I could have died. If it were not for April Gallagher, I would have. From now on I will listen loud and clear when I get medical advice. No arguments from me about testing, etc.

Enjoy your day!

I start with the Key West bond issue. A lot of money. Open ended. Gives Key West City Commissioners fantastic monetary power over the years. No group should have such power.

Additionally, there is a negative factor involved which bothers me. It permits monies to be spent upgrading the amphitheater. Hard to believe! Those making the biggest and direct dollars from the amphitheater’s operation should be paying the bills. Someone had their head screwed on wrong permitting this to be part of the bond vote and thinking the people would not catch it. Many have and do not like it!

Had a cardiac physical yesterday. April Gallagher oversaw everything. April is the cardiac nurse I attribute with having saved my life when my heart went caput on me. She is the best!

I passed with flying colors! May I continue to do so. The new aortic valve has done wonders for me.

Enjoyed contact with old friends yesterday.

Leaving Dr. Norris’ office after having given blood, etc. for my overall physical tomorrow, I was stopped for a traffic light. Guy de Boer drove up on a motorcycle. I have not seen Guy in more than a year. He has been in Europe racing his boat. We had a quick conversation and agreed to have dinner next week.

Last night, I received a telephone call from Larry and Christine Smith. Christine Cordone professionally. The have been at their Pennsylvania home for several months and were driving back to Key West. We talked for a while. It was good hearing from them. More dinner companions. Glad I have teeth again!

When people discuss Italian lakes, Lake Como always is at the top of their list. Few are even aware of the names of other Italian lakes.

Having had the benefit of several trips to Italy, I am aware of one other that is equally as exciting and enjoyable. Lake Maggiore. Several communities along its banks. The one I am most familiar with is Stresa. A beautiful old Italian resort community. Still going strong. Stately hotels from yesterday and swaying palm trees.

It has an Ernest Hemingway connection. When Hemingway was young and a member of the Italian Red Cross, he was injured in the fighting. He ended up in an Italian hospital for quite a while recovering. His nurse was Agnes von Kurowsky. They fell in love. 

During Hemingway’s recovery, they spent some time in Stresa. Mostly at a hotel on Lake Maggiore. They were in Stresa 10 days and spent 7 at the Grand Hotel Des Iles Borromees.

A good portion of A Farewell to Arms takes place at the Hotel Borromees, Lake Maggiore and a nurse Hemingway’s male Farewell character was in love with. The nurse’s name in the book was Catherine Barkley.

I visited Stresa and the Borromees often. Dined in restaurants on the lake and also nearby small islands. Great atmosphere!

I was Anna’s guest each time. I was staying at her home in Navaro, less than a one hour drive from Lake Maggiore. We would make daily trips.

We spent much time at the Borromees. How could I not! It was Hemingway’s place! 

I found out where he drank at the Hotel. There was a new bar when I visited. Hemingway’s was closed, smaller and in the back of the hotel. Now a store room. However, a very elderly gentleman who began working at the hotel when Hemingway visited showed me around. He had known Hemingway, served him, etc. Even down to the small window he said Hemingway used to sit and look out of while sipping a martini. Martinis were his drink of the day back then.

In his later years, Hemingway referred to the Borromees as his “home away from home.”

Santorini comes into play today. Came across an article on Santorini on the internet today. Purportedly, the most beautiful of the Greek isles.

I visited Santorini several times for stays from one to two weeks. Anna, again. 

Santorini one of the most beautiful places my eyes have ever beheld. The views spectacular. I always stayed at the same place in Oia. A resort on the side of a cliff overlooking the bay and the volcano I failed to climb. I enjoyed everything about Santorini, except for the food. Touristy.

Anna had been a guest at the resort every year for 20 years before she brought me. It was the best of the best. The name escapes me unfortunately. Because of Anna I suspect, I was treated like royalty. The owner’s elderly wife washed and ironed my clothes everyday. Mine, not Anna’s. She brought me bowls of fresh fruit and a bottle of wine from their own vineyard every day. A great woman, a great couple.

A live and learn. People painting their nails goes back 5,000 years. The Chinese were the first to do so.

A sad day in American history. Despite sexual allegations by Anita Hill, the Senate narrowly confirmed the nomination of Clarence Thomas to the U.S. Supreme Court, 52-48.

Why did Abraham Lincoln grow a beard?

He was encouraged to grow a beard by 11 year old Grace Bedell who wrote him a letter recommending he grow a beard. She wrote his face was too thin and he would look better with a beard. He obviously agreed. She also added if he grew a beard, her brothers would vote for him and women would tease their husbands to vote for him.

I don’t understand. Elon Musk is purportedly the richest man in the world. I would assume a degree of intelligence attests to such monetary pinnacle. Apparently not.

Musk believes without Trump as Presidnet, voting will disappear. I believe the opposite is true.

Musk’s mother Maye encourages voters to commit a form of voter fraud. One which could result in 100 illegal votes each time attempted. She says the votes would not be illegal.

Catholics are swinging away from Harris. At the moment, Trump leads Harris 50-45 percent among Catholic voters.

I’m not surprised. Catholics have become a political force in recent years as opposed to a religious one. They are “evangelicals.” Most side with the U.S. Congress of Catholic Bishops.

Churches will continue to close and/or merge as a result. Catholics less God motivated. More so politically.

A sorry state of affairs for Catholics as a whole and the U.S. itself.

I close with a happy event I will be experiencing later in the day. Happy Hour at The Grand with Cindy and Steve. I can eat!

Enjoy your day!

Boar’s Head deli-meat company. Famous brand. Dependable, so popular. It’s Publix’s mainstay at the deli counter. The demand for Boar’s Head products has made its owners fabulously wealthy.

Now the Company faces the biggest scandal in its history.

Its story suddenly public.

For example, no one knows who the CEO is. Always has been so. Even those at the highest end of the Company hierarchy do not know who the CEO was or is. During which times Boar’s Head makes about $3 billion a year and employs thousands of people. What is known is that the Company is owned by two families. The Brunckhorsts and the Bischoffs. Secretive people.

The two families do not necessarily get along. Even within each family, there is friction. New generations are coming into the business! They want position and a piece of the action. Instead the elders require them to start at the bottom learning how to bone hams, make bologna, and mix spices. Earning $7 per hour, working 70 hours per week, and remaining in such basic and servile positions for years.

Lawsuits have prevailed amongst and between family members as a result. Many believe they are entitled to more and want it now.

There are and will be more lawsuits. Because of the 10 people who died and the dozens hospitalized from and with listeria, a dangerous food borne bacteria. Most after eating liverwurst prepared at the Boar Head’s factory in Virginia. The plant employed 500 and has been shut down since the listeria problem occurred.

U. S. inspectors had warned Boar’s Head of safety concerns at the Virginia plant where the listeria broke out. The inspectors warned conditions posed a “monumental threat” to public health. They pointed out “extreme rust, deli meats exposed to wet ceilings, green mold, and holes in the walls.”

There is so much involved with the Boar’s Head Company, its power and its methods of operation. It would take pages for me to report and I still would only have scratched the surface.

Yesterday’s edition of the New York Times (10/13/24) provides a detailed article. I suggest you read it for better enlightenment. Titled “The Secret Dynasty That Controls the Boar’s Head Brand.” Authored by Maureen Farrell.

Random observations.

A “long” 22 days ahead following what already has been a long year. The polls are of little use. I have not had faith in them in recent years.

Rampant disease throughout Gaza. Polio and cholera. It was inevitable.

Rumor has it Trump has moved ahead of Harris. Disasterville, USA, should Trump win.

The Supreme Court has grown too powerful. Time to do something. It will be up to the next President and Congress.

The Electoral College has to go. A President should be elected by majority vote. PERIOD!

A recent study shows 1 in 5 American children face hunger this year.

Moving on.

Happy Columbus Day! In addition, Happy Indigenous Peoples’ Day. It is celebrated in 200 cities and 4 states.

It was revealed this week that Columbus was not Italian. Rather a Sephardic Jew born in the Spanish city of Valencia.. Such the result of a 22 year forensic study.

Maine has a “one of its own” competitions. An annual event. Held this past saturday. A “wife-carrying championship.” The husband carries the wife on his back. Generally upside down. Feet around the husband’s necks. Purportedly makes it easier for the wife to be carried.

The contestants get mud, beer and cash.

 The winning couple receives the weight of the “wife in beer” and 5 times the “wife’s” weight in cash. Note wife is in quotes. The reason being this year the couples were not required to be married or of different sexes.

Thirty couples participated this year. Some from different states.

The event is based on a 19th century Finnish legend involving a gang who was known to pillage villages and carry off the women.

Syracuse and Pitt meet in football thursday evening  October 24 at Pittsburg. Perhaps the most important game of the year for each team. Syracuse is presently 5-1, Pitt 6-0. Syracuse unranked, Pitt #22.

A hell of a game expected!

I am a creature of habit. Lunched again yesterday at Goldman’s. The grilled cheese sandwich! Still wildly tasty!

I close with how busy my day today is. Already did blood and other prep work this morning at Dr. Norton’s. I have a physical scheduled with him wednesday. At 3 this afternoon, I will be having my yearly heart physical with April Gallagher.

My day a typical one for the elderly. Many medical visits. Becomes a way of life. A good thing!

Enjoy your day!

A negative item by a Laura Jones appeared on the internet. The article claimed tourists should avoid eating in Plaka. Plaka is one of Athens’ most exciting places. You have not “flavored” Greece unless you have enjoyed Plaka, including its food.

Jones agrees Plaka is picturesque. Again, it is its food she believes lacks quality.

I do not know who Jones is, but I submit she does not understand Plaka, its food, atmosphere, etc. I have experienced Plaka at least 20 times. I know Plaka. I love Plaka.

It is a typical Greek neighborhood full of restaurants. Sits at the base of Acropolis. The view special day and night. Especially evenings when the mountain top is lit.

You do not go to Plaka for the food. It is ok. Average. So are the prices. Not a rip off. You go for Plaka’s flavor and fun. If you want the very best Greek meals, there are other restaurants in other areas that are available. Where it will cost a ton, but be worth every penny. It depends what you are looking for. I guarantee one thing. You will be attracted more to Plaka than the very expensive restaurants. Not for the money alone. For the pleasure Plaka offers.

Let me share what” fun” is. Besides sitting, eating, drinking and watching the world go by, I have danced Greek style with men, broken dishes when it was legal, sung, and laughed with people from all over the world.

Do not miss Plaka if you visit Athens. Guaranteed you will return more than one time during the same trip.

Syracuse won again last night. Beat North Carolina State 24-17. Syracuse’s record so far this season 5-1. Ho, ho!

Evangelicals, Christians, Catholics, etc., whatever you want to call them, worry me. They are better described as “Christian radicals.” Off base, nuts. They want America to turn to God. Fine! However their “how” is a problem for me. They want Trump elected!

These Evangelicals, etc. forget Biblical teachings, the word of God. The teachings of God they promote do not sound like the Sermon on the Mount. The truth will make you free does not come from Trump’s mouth or theirs. Lies form the basis of their teachings. What happened to love one another? Gone. Replaced by hatred.

Live and learn. Oysters and pearls. Why mollusks such as oysters produce pearls. It’s a defense mechanism.

When an “irritant”, like a parasite or a shell fragment, gets trapped inside the oyster, the oyster’s mantle secrets layers of nacre, or mother-of- pearl, around the irritant. The secretion is a defense mechanism to protect the oyster from foreign substances entering the oyster’s environment.

It takes time to produce a pearl. Anywhere from 6 months to 4 years.

The mollusk producing the most pearls is the oyster.

Election day around the corner. Some politics.

Trump called Harris “retarded” at a dinner at Trump Tower in New York City this past week. At the same time, he railed against  Jewish voters supporting her.

I have always been an admirer of Chris Christie. He calls them as he sees them. No bullshit involved.

Christie, former Republican Governor of New Jersey, has become the latest to sound the alarm over Trump’s apparent mental decline. He claims Trump is not the same man who ran for President in 2016. Claims he is way different today and that his skills have dramatically declined. He describes Trump as “not nearly as good today” as he was.

Retired General Mark A. Milley says Trump is a “fascist to the core…..the most dangerous man in the country.”

His comments are available in Bob Woodward’s forthcoming book about Trump.

Milley was Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for more than a year under Trump and continued under Biden in the same role for a period of time.

Vance makes me laugh. Also worry should he become Vice President.

He knocks Obamacare. Ho, ho. It became public this past week that his mother has received heath coverage by using Obamacare.

Vance reportedly advised his mother to get private health insurance under Trump. True. What he failed to reveal was she purchased private health insurance through the Affordable Care Act’s insurance market place run in Ohio.

Vance must learn two things. One, to tell the truth. Two, to tell all the truth.

I close with some information revealed this past week about Trump’s new $60 Bible.

This past week, Walz ripped Trump’s Chinese Bible as he described it.

Walz referred to Trump as a heathen and hypocrite Friday for outsourcing his “God Bless the USA” bible to China. He “outsourced” it by having the Bible printed in China. Walz said re the “outsourcing” charge, “This dude even outsourced God to China.”

Walz really nailed Trump when he said, “I don’t blame him. He didn’t notice the ‘Made in China’ sticker ’cause they put it inside, a place he’s never looked in the Bible.”

Two things come to mind. I thought Trump was politicking that manufacturing by U.S. concerns would no longer be farmed out to foreign countries. The other involves tariffs. Since the Bible was manufactured in China. will it be tariffed in any fashion. Excessively?

Enjoy your Sunday!

John Denver died this day in 2007 in an aircraft accident. Reminds me of a meeting I and part of my family had with Denver.

A long time ago. Lisa had to be 7 or 8 years old. Mary Lourdes, Lori, Lisa and I were in New York City. Vacation time. A hot summer day. Heavy humidity. Lisa was not doing well walking. Constantly complaining. 

It was time to get out of the heat. I took the family to a restaurant which I frequented often in those days. It has been so long its name escapes me.

Lisa would not give up being difficult. I told her when we were seated that movie stars frequented the restaurant. Of course, she did not believe me.

As we were eating, the table next to us became occupied. We all, including Lisa, recognized one of the persons seated. He was seated close to Lisa. It was the famous singer John Denver.

He began picking at Lisa’s french fries and talking with her. Made her day! Made mine! She stopped complaining and began believing her father knew what he was talking about.

Key West’s new City Commission met thursday. The meeting heated. Going to be an interesting time in City government the next few months. We need some give and take. Ergo, a good thing. The City needs shaking up. Things have gotten out of hand the past few years.

Not everyone agrees with me. A comment in this morning’s Citizens’ Voice reflects the same: “The City Commission meeting was painful to watch. Combative energy came from two of our new Commissioners and our outgoing Commissioner. Petty drama and cronyistic maneuvering for hours! No substance to be found! The Bubba system is back, baby! Sorry, public. You’re on your own.”

A Citizens’ Voice comment of value: “We need more affordable housing…..not more housing…..we need to convert expensive housing into affordable housing.”

Flooding still a Milton caused problem in Florida. Florida is flat. Flood water has to evaporate and/or slowly seep into the ground. Takes time. There is a lack of hills, water does not run off.

I find Trump’s positions amusing. One from 8 years ago when he vowed to “drain the swamp.” Now, he swims in it.

Trump’s mouth gets him in trouble again. The place Aurora, Colorado, this past friday. Trump claimed (falsely of course) that armed Venezuelan gang members were “invading and conquering” the community, “violent migrant animals…..barbaric thugs.”

Aurora’s Mayor Mike Coffman is a Republican. He said: Trump’s statements were “grossly exaggerated and have unfairly hurt the city’s identity and sense of safety.”

An early Trumpy. So described because of the number who attended a speech given by Evangelican George Whitefield this day in 1740. He preached to 30,000 people in Boston during the “Great Awakening.”

On this day in 1492, Christopher Columbus made landfall on a Caribbean island he named San Salvador. Thought today to have been Watling Island in the Bahamas. Columbus believed he had reached East Asia.

James Doohan was a Canadian actor best known for his role as “Scotty” in the TV and movie series Star Trek. He died in 2005.

Doohan was in World War II. He landed in Normandy on D-Day. Seriously wounded. Shot six times: 4 in the leg, 1 in the chest (stopped by a metal cigarette case), and 1 shot blew off his middle finger. All from “friendly fire.”

On this day in 1842, the children’s rhyme Three Blind Mice was published in a London Book.

Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day fall on monday October 14. The holidays occur annually on the second monday of October. The first celebration of Columbus Day in the U.S. was held this day in 1792 in New York City.

On this day in 1920, Man O’War ran his last race. Man O’War is considered one of the finest, if not the finest, thoroughbred to have ever run. His record was 20-1. His only loss was by a neck at Saratoga to, would you believe, a horse named Upset.

Boeing’s problems the past several years have become onerous. Plane and personnel problems. The inevitable has occurred. Boeing announced it is cutting its work force by 17,000 jobs. Management says the reduction is necessary to assist in recovery. Tough actions required.

A birthday date worthy of mention. Saturday Night Live is 50 years old! Would you believe!

Another would you believe! Roni Di Lullo became concerned with sun getting in her dog’s eyes while playing frisbee. She invented “doggles.” Dog specific goggles. Secured a patent. Her business now sells $3 million of Doogles annually.

I close with Syracuse football.

Syracuse plays North Carolina State at 8 this evening . Syracuse 4-1, North Carlina State 3-3. Syracuse favored.

Enjoy your day!

When I began this blog some 20 years ago, it was to share my everyday Key West experiences. Over the years, its contents have expanded to cover everything and anything.  With the expansion interestingly, the number of my followers has greatly expanded.

You have put up with my heart attack / teeth problems for 9 months. Though it appears I am at the end of the road with the problems, please bear with me as I share my recent experiences with food.

The Oreos were outstanding! Yesterday was a grilled cheese sandwich at Goldman’s.  I could not believe, you may not believe. Equally outstanding! It all has to do with taste. The grilled cheese spectacular! I could not believe how good!

This must be the way it is when a person returns to normal eating after a long period without. WOW!

One problem remains. I must chew more. Having lived on liquids, it was easy to consume. I drank and swallowed. Everything went down smoothly. Chewing added again and I must learn to chew more. I choked a few times yesterday with the grilled cheese because I was not chewing enough.

Guaranteed I will swiftly learn.

Hurricane Milton another disaster. Fortunately turned out not to be as bad as expected. Still horrific, however. The pics on TV are sad. I have experienced some hurricanes in my 30 years in Key West. Nothing as bad as what Helene and Milton have exposed to my eyes. Milton provided a “minimal” break because it did not hit landfall where anticipated and the surge was not as anticipated. Nevertheless a disaster!

The death toll only 16 so far. Millions without power. FEMA was ready. Water and food swiftly got to those in need.

Key West experienced a “maybe tornado.” Which means no damage. As to flooding, I made the run yesterday on my way to and after my manicure. No flooding anywhere.

Lucky we were! May we continue to be so. The hurricane season is not yet over. The experts say it will not end November 1, to expect a few more thereafter.

DeSantis pissed me off yesterday. Not unusual. I wish Floridians would vote him out of office. 

The press was interviewing him. A question was asked re Milton not being as bad as projected. DeSantis got upset. He seemed pissed off it was not as bad. Maybe I read him wrong. However that is how he came over to me.

A scary experience for a Milton victim which turned out ok. The identity of the individual involved was not available.

The person was a fishing boat captain. His boat turned over. He was in the water overnight during the height of Milton. He was floating in a cooler, wearing a life jacket and a locator beacon. The locator beacon is what probably saved his life. A Coast Guard helicopter found him 30 miles off Longboat Key in 25 foot waves and 90 mph winds.

Lucky was he!

Seems to be a DeSantis morning. He and his administration are off the wall. Weird, also. He is in a class with Trump and Vance.

What follows is an extreme example of the ends they will go to to enforce what they believe is “correct.”

This is an election year. There is a Constitutional amendment on the ballot. Number 4 titled “Constitutional Amendment Article I, New Section.” Strong TV ads being run by both parties re the ad. Concerns abortion.

Florida’s Department of Health sent a letter to at least two TV stations to “cease and desist” running a political ad calling for the repeal of the State’s six week abortion ban.

The letter penned by John Wilson, general counsel for the Department of Health, said the 30 second spot involved was a violation of Florida’s “sanitary nuisance” law which is commonly used to charge people with overflowing septic tanks or unclean slaughterhouses. 

An extreme devious use of a statute not even applicable. Typical Florida Republican action.

Obama spoke at a Democratic rally last night in Pittsburg. He buried Trump! Spelled out most of Trump’s bad moves and foils. Cut his balls off!

On this day in 1991, Anita Hill appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee examining Clarence Hill for the Supreme Court seat he had been nominated to. Hill accused Thomas of sexual harassment. Thomas denied her charge and described the hearing as “high tech lynching.”

I believed Hill then. Still do. I believe most Americans today do also.

Biden was Chairman of the Committee. As much as I have admired Biden over the years, he screwed up here. It was obvious he did not believe Hill, gave Thomas every deference.

I close with a strange item. A live and learn one for me. I assume for most, also. Involves a physical body issue.

Guess what? Both sexes have a uterus. Yes, men too. The “male uterus” is a tiny vestige embedded in the prostrate.

I know nothing else about it.

Enjoy your day!

Milton did its thing. Bad, I’m sure. How bad, I am not yet sure. It’s still dark outside and TV also not able to show damage till the sun comes up. I therefor leave Milton to tomorrow.

I was a little foolish yesterday. It was windy. More than normal. No gusts, though. Heavy rain on and off. Overall, no concern about going out from my perspective.

I was anxious for a Goldman’s toasted cheese sandwich. Got there at 1:45 pm. Note on door said Closing at 2. Did not even go in. Did not want to be rushed even if I was able to be served.

At that point, I noticed most stores in the Overseas Shopping Center were closed. Winn-Dixie was open. Ergo decided to pick up a few things. The store was next to empty.

Now that I am supposedly properly eating, I decided to buy some meats, etc. A change in my diet expected. Timely. I could not do it. Amazing! My mind went one way, my hands another. I purchased all those things I have for the past 9 months. Soups, yogurt, chocolate drink, juices, puddings. etc.

I know. I have to work on “mind changing.”

I did buy one thing different, however. A package of Oreos. Had no intention of so doing. Hard to chew, etc. For whatever reason, I grabbed a package of the shelf as I walked by. Gave no thought to the selection.

Last night, I tried 3. Only 3 because they were so good, I saw myself consuming the whole package. No problem chewing or swallowing. The best of the best however was the taste. The most DELICIOUS thing I had tasted in 9 months!

I noticed an unusual thing as I was driving home. The heavy wind was coming in off the Atlantic. When I got home, I saw on TV the Southernmost Point. Winds and big waves throwing water off the Atlantic over the monument.

Strange! Guess it might have been Milton’s tail running in reverse early in the afternoon.

This morning Keys Citizen “thought” a tornado passed over/struck Key West at 11:30 last night. The article gave no further details.

There will be flooding. Always is in Key West. The same streets and intersections all the time. I have a manicure scheduled for noon. I will know then if I am correct. I am sure I will be. The water will be 2-3 feet deep in some areas. People swimming in the intersections. Tourists, of course. They think its fun. Reality wise, dangerous. Forget not the sewer germs, though little of the flooding is from the sewers.

A live and learn. I have been in Key West 30 years, Never knew one of the best places to park your car if flooding is expected is the Key West High School parking lot. Huge. It was already full wednesday morning, though not a school day.

A perfect question asked in this morning’s Citizens’ Voice. The question precise in view of today’s society: “Does the number of people who hate outnumber the ones who want to be kind?”

I close with a tale originating in my younger days.

As a young lawyer, much of my work involved representing persons injured in accidents.  The lawsuits in most instances were defended by insurance companies.  Allstate the worst! Ruthless in the defense of all cases, whether small or large. Allstate’s aim was to discourage lawyers from suing Allstate insureds.

I hated Allstate!

In later years, my practice developed to the point where my law firm was the major insurance company representative in Central New York. The insurance companies couldn’t beat me so they joined my flock of clients.

I always refused to do legal work for Allstate. Allstate’s volume was large and would have represented a significant increase in my cash flow. However, I could not bring myself to representing the interests of the whore.

There is a reason why I share this with you. Spiro Agnew was elected Vice President of the U.S. His legal career included being an Allstate adjuster. From day one, I considered him no good. I was correct.

On this day in 1973, Vice Presidnet Spiro Agnew, accused of accepting bribes, resigned his office and plead no contest to one count of federal income tax evasion. He was all done being Vice President and further a person deserving of respect.

Enjoy your day!

Big day yesterday! At 3 in the afternoon, I had teeth! All of them!

Took 9 months, but finally got there. My implant dentist was Dr. Mullins at Old Town Dental. The best! He did wonders.

For me, a major event. So long not being able to eat or bite. Lived on liquids. Lost 65 pounds. The only benefit from the disaster.

I had been dreaming what would be my first meal. A steak! A filet mignon! I had not eaten one or lamb chops in the 9 months. Bravado exceeded my dream, however. I went to The Grand and “chickened out.” No, I did not even order chicken. Went with conch fritters. Worked ok. Could not finish. Four pieces too much food. Amazing!

I am going to have to creep back into normal eating. Not sure why. However, that was my conclusion last night.

Lunch today a grilled cheese sandwich at Goldman’s. The best! I have not been able to eat bread. You can’t muck up bread enough with only your tongue and roof of the mouth to break the bread down sufficiently. I was choking, had to stop.

Sorry to bore you with my eating problems.  A big deal for me, however.

I felt like I had a mouth of teeth at The Garden. Thought it was impeding my talking. Chatted with Chris on one side of me and a hurricane escaper to Key West Kelly on the other. Both said I was speaking well. Hope they were not saying so to make me feel good.

Steve and Cindy were not there. They went to Orlando last week. Steve does his doctoring at the Vet’s Hospital up there. When they went to leave sunday, their car would not work.  Cause not certain. Garage “guessed” what it might be. $1,000 to fix with no guaranty of it working. In the meantime, Steve and Cindy rented a car.

Their car worked fine and they got home late last night.

Milton a strange duck. 

Yesterday was beautiful in Key West. I learned last night today is the day we will have problems in Key West, if any. Winds and rain this morning so far.  Winds getting heavier. Around 50 mph.

I do not sense anything dramatic is going to occur.

Milton can’t make up his mind. Still over the water and goes back and forth between a Category 4 and Category 5. Still heading for Tampa area. Issue now is whether the north or south side of Tampa. The side determines the severity of the impact.

TV pictures of debris still remaining on roadsides due to Helene visible. Bad. Tall and huge. When Milton hits, each parcel, small or large will be a missile or bullet. Reason enough for people to get their asses out. Milton is going to be one of the worst hurricanes ever.

Impact later today or during the evening.

Florida Governor DeSantis continues to be an ass. He wouldn’t talk to Harris because “she had nothing to do with the hurricane.” He is happy now. Talking directly with Biden. What a pompous ass!

Florida under DeSantis has been a Trumpy/MAGA sort. He is no different than Trump. Both bad guys.

Helen reads this blog. She lives in northern Florida. She left a comment this morning. Words of wisdom: “For those of you attempting to evacuate the impending hurricane on I-75, in northern Florida, remember that the Congress persons in our district have steadfastly refused to vote for any FEMA funding.”

Bob Woodward is back with a new book…..WAR.

He always writes the truth. Nails Trump big in two instances.

The first is the information that Trump when President sent Putin COVID test kits for his personal use. This was at a time when we wee without any in the U.S. for our people. Even Putin knew Trump should not have done what he did. Told him to make sure no one would find out.

The other is Trump has spoken with Putin seven times since Trump has been out of office. Nothing wrong with that if rules are followed. The rules require Trump to first advise the U.S. government he was making the calls. Trump of course did not.

Germany and Greece were having political problems in 2012. The Greeks were hurting financially. They blamed Germany’s Prime Minister Angela Merkel for their austerity problems. 

Twenty five thousand Greeks gathered on several occasions to protest in Athens. On the grounds surrounding the Parliament.

I was concluding a two month Greece stay at the time. My last few days were at the Gran Bretagne Hotel in Athens which was located directly across the street from the Parliament located protest.

No way was I going to not experience the demonstration. I spent two days in the midst of it. Walking around. No one bothered me. I did not understand what the speakers were shouting. Greek was Greek to me.

One recollection was the name of Angela Merkel. Each time a speaker shouted her name, the crowd in unison spit on the ground.

On this day in 1855, inventor Isaac Singer patented the sewing machine motor. The name Singer attached. Most are unaware he had a partner. Edward Clark. 

The Clark family settled in Cooperstown, N.Y. Home of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Some 40 mils from my home town Utica. Cooperstown is located on Otsego Lake. Beautiful country.

I was unaware of the Clark family nor their relationship to Singer. Soon found out. Needed a favor in Cooperstown. I was told the Clark family were the movers and controlled everything having to do with the community. It was a long time and difficult climb, but we finally got together and they were very cooperative in what I needed done.

In anticipation of the possibility that Milton might suddenly change course, Key West is hankering down. Schools and some government offices are closed today. Tomorrow will be decided after Milton passes us by today. Today’s garbage for example has been moved to tomorrow and thursday’s garbage to friday. I take the time to mention these miniscule Key West items since a number of people have stopped reading the Keys Citizen and only read me for the news.

Seattle’s Cathy Holka is a dear friend and frequent Key West visitor. I close with her story of a visit by Maria Gutsens. The ghost held her hand.

It is said Maria Gutsens still walks the rooms and hallways of the former Mercedes Hospital on Virginia Street. It is now an apartment house. Gutsens was the Matron of Mercedes Hospital for 23 years.

On this day in 1934, she received the Cross of the Order of Carla Manuel de Cespedes, an honor given by the Cuban government for “outstanding services rendered to Cuba and humanity.”

Many believe her “ghost” still resides at the former hospital on Virginia Street.  Periodically appearing, sometimes to help those sick.

My dear friend Cathy  lived in Key West for a time in the late 1980’s. She resided in the former hospital building. She claims she was under the weather one night, half asleep. Suddenly “someone” picked up her wrist as if to check her pulse. She saw “the figure” who then disappeared. Cathy claims she felt better thereafter.

I believe her and her story of meeting Maria.

Enjoy your day!

So many important things affecting the U.S. today. Each having a special importance unto itself.

I have decided that this day Hurricane Milton is the most important to our country. Ergo, my comments limited to Milton.

Projected already to be THE worst storm ever, or second worst storm, to hit the U.S.

The facts.

Still well out into the Gulf. Not expected to make landfall till early wednesday morning. Tampa projected as the bad luck area.

Milton turned from a Category 1 to a Category 5 yesterday in a period of hours. So unusual, it caused meteorologist John Morales to break down on TV while reporting Milton. He was visibly emotional as he reported. His words after advising how Milton had gone from a Category 1 to 5: “Incredible, incredible. Dropped 50 millibars in 10 hours.” Then his tears followed by an apology: “I apologize. This is just horrific.”

Milton is expected to drop to a category 3 or 4 as it hits Tampa. Still a major storm. Then Milton will cross Florida and exit somewhere around Orlando or Daytona Beach into the Atlantic Ocean. Still at a 3-4. Will drop to a Category 2 when in the Atlantic.

Less than 2 weeks ago, it was Helene that was the worst hurricane ever. No more. Milton replacing Helene. At a time when Helene’s cleanup is still at a minimal stage. Certain parts of Florida will be hard hit a second time. Oh, the woe coming!

An article in USA Today yesterday discussed Milton becoming a Category 6. The only problem, there is no Category 6. At least, not yet. The discussion at this stage hypothetical.

Key West and the Keys fortunate again. We have had heavy rains the past few days. Some of the storms with the rain coming down sideways. Sometimes as much as a 45 degree angle. Milton affects even though tons of miles off land and not yet having even reached a point opposite Key West.

There must be a heavy wind, though I have not heard it. Yet the streets and yards are replete in many Key West areas with downed leaves and palm tree branches.

Meteorologists advise the worst Key West will experience is a tropical storm. Late today probably. if at all. Flooding could be 2-3 feet.

Cape Coral is under emergency evacuation. Corey’s parents drove to Corey and Lisa’s home yesterday from Cape Coral. Spoke with Cheryl Yeast yesterday. She now lives in Cape Coral. She was leaving for Miami where she had already made hotel reservations.

It has been suggested Key West winds will reach 45 mph. Gusts will increase that number. Meteorologists have stated Key West winds could reach a “tropical stormforce.”

Scary difficult days ahead for those north of us. A prayer or two in order.

Today, a big one for me. I have a dental appointment at 3. I supposedly will leave the dentist’s office with a full set of teeth. Nine months and 65 pounds later!

I don’t care how heavy the rain or how badly the winds are blowing, I will keep the appointment. The teeth are an emotional thing for me. 

Those who can, enjoy your day! Those who cannot, evacuate or get to a safe place if you lack the fear you should be experiencing. No time for bravado.