My blog today one of historical significance. I publish it because there is much to be learned from history. History teaches.

The good is always be remembered, the bad forgotten. Forgotten with lessons that should be recalled as a constant reminder of what not to do.

Before delving into the lesson recalling blog planned for today, I am compelled to briefly comment on the recent carnage in Texas. Two events on the same day. One in Allen, the other Brownsville. One by gun, the other by an SUV.

Texans are killers at heart. Remind me of the Old West when it comes to death by gun shot wounds.

Texas has had more shooting deaths in recent years than any other State. Only a handful have done the shooting. The rest of the populace has suffered. And complain!

My problem is most Texans bear responsibility. Their guns the ballot box. They have voted and revoted basically the same Republicans into office. I find it hard to understand.

The solution is new laws limiting guns, not making it easier for people to possess. Ergo the cure is the ballot box. Texans, use it properly the next time around.

I wrote the following blog 8/15/14. It bears repeating.

GLORY AND DISGRACE

The first year of Great Britain’s participation in World War II was marked with glory and disgrace. The glory of the highest type. The disgrace the worst imaginable.

Two battles were involved. The Air Battle for Britain and the Fall of Singapore.

The Air Battle for Britain is recognized as memorable. A high point in British history. Englishmen fighting bravely against overwhelming odds.

The air battle began on July 10, 1940 and ended on October 31, 1940. A mere three and a half months. Germany bombed England relentlessly during that time frame. Hitler was of the opinion he could bomb the Brits into submission. He ordered Britain to be bombed every day.
Initially, the bombing was of airfields, infrastructure, and factories. A month into the bombings, Hitler decided to terrorize the English people. He bombed the cities.

London was especially targeted.

Germany had significantly more planes and experienced pilots than Britain. By the thousands. The Brits were defended by RAF volunteers. Primarily young men dedicated to defeating the German onslaught.

Hitler considered his Luftwaffe superior. Defeat never entered his mind. Defeated he and Germany were, however. By young fighter and bomber pilots . Ill experienced at the start of the battle. Seasoned warriors in less than four months. The young pilots went up to defend their country several times a day every day.

Hitler became so frustrated with his losses that he ordered the raids on England to stop on October 31. He was not going to lose one more plane over England. He ordered the Luftwaffe to Russia.

Churchill labeled the British victory in words that most everyone is familiar with to this day: “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.”

Glory can be fleeting. It was in the case of Great Britain. One year later, Singapore fell to the Japanese.

A loss in and of itself is not significant. It is the way one loses. Great Britain threw in the towel in Singapore basically without firing one bullet.

On February 15, 1942, the British commander surrendered the 130,000 troops under his command to the Japanese. The British commander was unaware at the time that the Japanese only had a few thousand troops on the island and the Japanese were very low on ammunition.

The British commander gave up Singapore without a fight. A battle never occurred. That is why the time in Singapore’s history is referred to as the Fall of Singapore, rather than the Battle for Singapore. It marked the end of the British Empire. It is known in history as the day the Empire died. The day the British empire fell apart.

Why no battle? A number of reasons.

The 130,000 troops under British command consisted of British, Indian and Australian troops. None wanted to fight. The British were living in another world. Even their military prowess. It was Victorian in nature. From another time. The Brits were also overconfident.

They considered themselves superior to the little yellow man. One prominent English civil servant in Singapore wanted to know whether it would take more than a day to throw the little men off the island. The soldiers themselves were overconfident. They were of the opinion the Japanese would never make it to shore. They would die in the water.

Great Britain had poured a ton of money in 1938 into fortifying and upgrading Singapore’s defenses. No one would be able to penetrate or take Singapore. The story is similar to the French Marginal Line. Singapore was also a large naval base.

The Brits expected an attack from the sea. The Japanese did not come in by the sea. They came in through the back door. The Malayan Peninsula. Through the streaming jungles on foot. No heavy motorized equipment. They stole bicycles to move forward when they reached Singapore.

The Japanese were ruthless along the way. They took no prisoners.

There were some approaching Japanese vessels. Two of Britain’s best ships went out to meet and destroy the enemy two days before
Singapore surrendered. The battleship Prince of Wales and cruiser Repulse. Both were sunk.

Britain was still plagued by World War I where it lost a generation of its young men. Britain was reluctant to lose more.

It is assumed this affected the mentality of the British generals, also.

Forty thousand Indian troops were a part of the 130,000 under British command. India had been clashing with Britain for years for independence.

Britain would not bend an inch to give them any type independence.

The Indians refused to fight. In fact after the surrender, 30,000 joined the Japanese forces and fought with them the rest of the war.

Some of them became guards at the POW camp established to keep the British troops.

The Australians were not much better. One third of the Australians deserted before the Japanese even set foot on Singapore.

The Australian commander, Lt. General Gordon Bennett, did not desert. He did leave his men, however. To avoid capture, he hopped a small boat with a couple of other officers and made his way to Australia.

The Australians were upset because the Brits did not treat them as equals. They were white as the British were.

However, the British considered and treated the Australians as lower type whites.

The British were fond of social clubs. Places where British were welcome. One was Raffles. The Australians were not welcome at the British social clubs.

They were forced to socialize at Indian and Chinese clubs.

Churchill and the British cabinet in several wires ordered the British commanders on Singapore to stand and fight to the death. The words went unheeded.

The British commander surrendered with out even firing a shot.

The British Empire was no more.

Another Texas massacre. At an Allen, Texas mall.

Love these Texans. They always express sorrow. Always “pray” for everyone involved. That’s it, however. Merely lip service. They do nothing to actually stop the shootings. Instead continue to make it easier for people to get guns.

The “line-up” by officials to share news re yesterday’s shooting typical Texas “nothing bullshit.” Deep sorrow and prayers. No facts.

Texans, wise up! Vote these deviant Texas Republicans out of office. You need to do so in order to straighten your out of control/no control gun laws. Fail to do so will result in the next person killed being a member of your family. Perhaps a child. Too late for you!

I do not recall a scenario similar to this year’s Kentucky Derby. 

Seven of the entrees died in the week leading up to the Derby itself. Five prior to the day, two more euthanized the morning of the Derby.

Five horses scratched also. One was the favorite Forte. Scratched the morning of the race. I mentioned yesterday that friend and Key West snowbird Reiley McDonald owns a piece of Forte. Forte stumbled on the track Thursday. Sustained a bruised right foot. State veterinarians concurred in the decision to scratch Forte.

David Taylor is an old Key West basketball friend. We used to watch Syracuse and Kentucky play. Not necessarily each other. We sometimes went  to Jack Flats, sat at the bar next to each other, I watching Syracuse on one TV set and he Kentucky on another.

Several years ago, David and his wife tired of Key West, sold and returned to Kentucky. We still communicate, however.

David sent me an email yesterday. He attended the Kentucky Derby once. Never again. His position being the experience could never be equaled.

It was 50 years ago. He was a college student in shorts, tennis shoes and a short sleeved T-shirt. Partied and watched from the infield. Cheapest admission. 

Three reasons why it was his one and only.

The first, Secretariat won. He wrote he was unable to get to the rail, but did see his legs go by.

Second reason, there was a “streaker.” A bold, courageous young idiot who shed every thread of clothing and climbed to the top of the Churchill Downs’ flagpole. They had to wait till he came down on his own. He captured the world’s attention.

Final reason, when the race was run and the party over, his shoes and shirt (which he had shed because of the heat) were gone.

He had to walk barefoot and shirtless back to his car. All he had were his car keys and a few dollars.

David closed his email with: “Why would I ever return? What could top it?”

He further admonished the best seat in the house is in front of your TV. There is no issue with parking or finding a bathroom.

Signed: “It’s all good – David in Kentucky.”

The Coronation was impressive. Emotional. A bit of tradition every 70 years does not hurt.

I visited Westminster many years ago. Overwhelming. A must see for anyone visiting London.

American millionaire Alfred Vanderbilt died this day in 1915. He was only 38 years old.

He died a hero saving women and children aboard the liner Lusitania which was sunk by a German U-boat. Lives lost totaled 1,198.

Ronald Reagan: “The most terrifying words in the English language are: I’m from the government and I’m here to help.”

One in three Americans have done jail time. Between 70 million and 100 million.

The number disgraceful. Highest in the world. We “arrest and jail” for everything.

Assistance following discharge equally disgraceful. We make life difficult for persons with “records.” Thereby guaranteeing they will be involved in another criminal act(s) in order to survive. Having even a minor criminal record, such as a misdemeanor or even an arrest without conviction, can create an array of lifelong barriers that stand in the way of successful re-entry.

Enjoy your Sunday!

A special day. Basked in tradition. The Coronation of Charles III and the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby.

I have watched better than half the Coronation this morning. Emotional. The sense of tradition at the forefront. Bless the English. They know how to do it.

Both the King and Queen were deserving of the honor bestowed them. Charles literally waited a lifetime. He is in his early 70’s. Camilla of non-royal blood who spent a lifetime initially as Charles lover and then wife. 

Strange Kentucky Derby this year. The 147th running of the Derby marred by the pre death of four horses. Twenty were to have run. The number dropped to 16. Three horses have been substituted in. Still one short of the 20.

One hundred fifty thousand will attend the Derby. It has been reported 522,000 cans of beer, 142,000 hot dogs, and 120,000 mint juleps will be consumed.

This year’s race bears a special interest on my part. A relatively new friend and part of the Boys Night Out group is Reiley McDonald. I mentioned him following our last gathering at La Te Da. Reiley owns a piece of Forte. Forte is the favorite in today’s race.

I wish Forte and Reiley well. I will be pulling for them.

Ginni Thomas’ reputation is growing by leaps and bonds. She is out of the shadows. A good factor. Out where all can see the corruption that cloaks her.

Ginni Thomas has had a trading stock for years. I was unaware. It was announced her stock will soon be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The recent notoriety though bad, has been healthy for the stock. Her success in life amazing. Wife of a Supreme Court Justice and “owner” of a major corporation.

Her stock is being recommended as a “strong buy.”

Bess Levin published an article yesterday in Vanity Fair re Ginni: “Oops: Ginni Thomas’s Firm Also Received Cash Payments From A Conservative With Business Before The Supreme Court.”

Hide the money! Which she did.

Levin’s opening sentence to the article: “It sure sounds like Clarence and Ginni Thomas are the most corrupt couple in Washington.”

Levin points out during “the last month, a picture of corruption…..Any other government employee would be fired for much less.”

Clarence and Ginni will likely experience no repercussions. Such is wrong!!!

Yesterday turned out to be one of horrors for me.

I had several things to accomplish. Eight in number. Made a list and the order in which I would do what had to be done. Got through the first 7. Eight would have been too much. I was totally exhausted. Wiped out.

I worked at the list from 5am to 3 pm. Five in the morning not unusual. I begin my blog around that time each morning. The wipe out arrived with #7. I went to the hospital for x-rays. Sign in normally has three persons. Only one yesterday. Apparently all day. It took around 2 1/2 hours to sign in. 

The sign in person was very apologetic. She acknowledged things got screwed up and was sorry. No sweat, I assured her.

Actually, it was. Sitting around waiting is what did me in.

I had 3 parts of my body to be x-rayed. Fifteen pictures. Took less than 10 minutes when they finally got to me. Two and one half hour wait for less than 10 minutes of service. Bad day at Black Rock!

I went home and directly to bed. Fell asleep for 3 hours.

Slept well last night. Feel fine today.

Busy afternoon ahead. Sloan and I will be working again on Jack Baron and some other items. About 2 hours work involved.

Enjoy your day!

Another example of decline in the U.S. in religious attendance. Hebrew schools are experiencing a significant drop-off. Enrollment fell by roughly 50 percent between 2006 and 2020. Information re the reduction can be found in a report by The Jewish Education Project, a nonprofit that supports Jewish educators.

The Hebrew schools are commonly referred to as supplementary Hebrew schools. Students attend in addition to public or secular private schools to learn the Hebrew language, Jewish rituals and history.

The number of schools that closed during the period covered in the study was 536.

I had an echo test at my heart doctor’s office yesterday. Deborah the echo tech performed the test. A charming woman. Originally from New York and California.

She “did me” last year also. May she do me next year and for many years to come. If I continue to be available for the test means I am still alive!

Treated myself to a late lunch after the test at Hogfish.

A 30 ton fin whale got into difficulties at sea off Bridington, East Yorkshire, England. Fifty five feet long. The whale washed up on the beach and died.

The whale’s body has become a macabre tourist attraction.

Authorities are having a problem. How to remove the carcass without cutting it up? The issue is still under consideration.

Cause of death has not been determined.

Supreme Court disclosures remind me of the song Onward Christian Soldiers. The adverse disclosures keep moving on as the Christian soldiers did. One consideration involved. The Christian soldiers marched in a noble cause. Nothing noble about the wrongdoings of the Justices or their spouses.

Yesterday two more negatives revealed re Clarence Thomas. His sugar daddy paid very expensive tuition for Thomas’ great nephew who he considers his son. At two different schools. Total dollar amount exceeding $100,000.

Then there is Clarence’s wife Ginni. She has developed a hell of a track record on her own. Yesterday it was revealed she emailed 29 Arizona legislators to overthrow Biden’s victory by appointing new electors.

The media has gone easy on Chief Justice Roberts so far. It wants Roberts to testify before Congress expecting him to tell Congress how the Court will clean itself up or whatever. Good luck! He is not going to testify. Forget the separation of powers argument. His reason is the $10.3 million his wife Jane was paid on her job selecting attorneys to work for law firms.

Clarence and Ginni Thomas, John and Jane Roberts, and Neil Gorsuch named so far. Only the tip of the iceberg. More to come. As sure as the sun rises every morning.

Proud Boys lengthy 5 month trial finally came to an end. Charged were 5 leaders of the organization. Four were convicted of seditious conspiracy. All 5 convicted of other charges. Four face up to 50 years in jail, one 30 years.

Re January 6, the court system is working as it should. Three cases, convictions in all. Plus a multitude of minor convictions and pleas of guilty in other cases.

Next, the big one. Trump and other leaders of the insurrection. Assuming grand jury indictments are forthcoming.

Caught Trump on TV playing golf in Ireland yesterday. He claimed the New York rape trial was unfair, he was upset, etc. He sounded genuinely pissed off. An act however I am sure. Claimed he was returning to the U.S. to testify at the trial.

The proof portion of the trial ended yesterday. Summations, the court’s charge and the case going to the jury scheduled for monday. For all practical purposes, the case is over.

Not for Donald. Never for Donald. He always seems to get his way with manipulating the court system.

Trump’s attorneys said he was neither going to appear nor testify. Now he “says” he wants his day in court.

The judge is bending over for him. The judge announced that Trump has till 5 pm sunday to advise whether he will appear to testify.

Bravado Donald will not appear. His gambit all a show.

I am irritated. How many chances does Trump get? The judicial system bends over to accommodate his whims. No one else would receive such courtesies. Makes it appear Trump can use the judicial system as he choses. As if he owned it. I am referring to how he uses the system, not the results he gets. Trump has to be the biggest loser in history when it comes to final court decisions.

I guarantee Donald will not be in court monday to testify. His plane may break down, he may get sick, etc. Some excuse will be forthcoming.

Tomorrow, the Kentucky Derby. 

On this day in 1973, Secretariat won the Kentucky Derby. The first of his Triple Crown victories.

A big time Key West musical week! The 27th Annual Key West Songwriters’ Festival. It will run through the 7th.

Highlights daily. A special one saturday night. A free “block party” in the 200 block of Duval. A high energy event headlined by Michael Ray.

Enjoy!

A Citizens’ Voice comment today: “Attention, all Key West octogenarians – a South Carolina woman predicts your death within the next 5 years. Be careful, be very careful.”

How do I describe her statement/prediction? Such arrogance. Of course many of us in our 80’s may be no more in the next 5 years. Some will make it, however. Even to their 100’s.

My 80ish friends, enjoy your lives. What will be, will be. There is merit to that old saying to eat, drink and make merry, for tomorrow we die. We just don’t know when. Ergo, take advantage of every day. Just don’t abuse your body. It could have a negative effect.

A manicure at noon with Tammy. I try to live well.

Enjoy your day!

Shooting and gun killing has become the All American sport. A game played daily.

The two most recent occurred in Atlanta and Oklahoma.

An Atlanta hospital shooting killed 1 and injured 4. In Oklahoma, a sex offender fatally shoot his wife, her 3 children and 2 teen girls before killing himself.

When is all this shooting going to stop? The solution lies with our elected representatives. Especially legislators on the state and federal scene. Eighty percent of Americans know serious gun controls are needed. Elected officials know also. However, they are reluctant to do the right thing. They are fearful of losing NRA political contributions and support.

They are “stupids!” Most will still win elections if they buck the NRA and openly support the desires of 80 percent of the American people. The problem is they are “cowards” as well as stupid.

American voters must rebel against them and only vote for candidates who openly promise to vote the necessary laws to limit guns.

On this day in 1970, Ohio National Guardsmen opened fire during an anti-Vietnam protest at Kent State University. Four students were killed, nine wounded.

I remember the event well. I was 35 years old at the time.

The event and shooting was a total screw up. Everyone was protesting the Vietnam War at the time. Even private citizens in street marches. Doctors, lawyers, ministers, etc.  University protests were common.

The Kent State protest by students began on May 1. It grew by day and became a mountain developing from a mole hill. Nixon was anti-protest. He had run for reelection against them. He was still arguing against them on May 1. University and the local Mayor panicked from day one. The Governor lost his head.

A small student group of protesters turned into 500. One thousand more were standing around watching by May 4. The Governor sent in 1,000 National Guardsmen armed with tear gas and loaded weapons. By May 4, the area looked like a war zone. The Guardsmen began tear gassing the day before. The students retaliated by throwing rocks.

On the 2nd or 3rd, the Mayor and Governor declared a state of emergency. After the shooting events of the 4th, neither could recall actually having done so.

On the 4th, 500 students were at the top of a hill on the campus. Another 1,000 were standing nearby watching, but not participating. On the bottom were 1,000 Guardsmen. The students were moving down the hill. Nothing of any consequence occurring. The story gets muddled at this point. The one I have always believed is that one of the Guardsman shot into the 500 students. The students panicked and began running in every direction to avoid the shooting. Spectator students began running also.

Some student(s) were shot in the back, some were merely observers, and one was not involved in any fashion. She was walking to a class.

Investigation determined 28 Guardsmen shot 61-68 bullets into the students. 

The country went wild. Hundreds of colleges and universities closed in protest. Demonstrations occurred nationwide.

The shooting was described as a “massacre.”

The nation was aroused. Vietnam protests increased. It was a sad day for the 4 students killed and 9 wounded, the University, and America itself.

Some believe it was not Watergate alone that brought Nixon down. They believe Kent State was involved also.

Russia is claiming the U.S. is behind the alleged Ukraine drone attack on the Kremlin. Putin speaking. Reminds one of Trump. The compulsion of both men to lie.

Jefferson B. Brown a Key Wester. Born in Key West June 6, 1857, died 87 years later in 1937.

He was a local political leader. Distinguished attorney. Wrote “Key West The Old and The New.” Published the book in 1912. A history of Key West. I have relied on his work a number of times over the years for items of historical significance. I have his entire book loaded into my computer.

Water pressure, lack of water, problems with FKAA, contributed to the following comment in today’s Citizens’ Voice: “Rumor is that the FKAA will recommend showering with a friend.”

Could be fun!

“Money” continues to float in Keys waters. Sixteen bricks of cocaine weighing 41 pounds were found floating off Islamorada. Street value $640,000.

Have to move fast. I have an echo heart test scheduled for later this morning.

Enjoy your day!

I am 87. I have had more medical physicals than most persons. Yesterday’s was the best.

Dr. John Norris has been my primary care physician for several years. He recently changed the nature of his practice to a concierge one. Concierge means additional attention. For an added cost, of course.

I joined his concierge practice a couple of months ago. 

Dr. Norris resolved my ankle problems which had plagued me and which I complained about to you for several weeks. His service and attention was above and beyond at the time.

Yesterday was my first full physical in the concierge practice. The best of the best. The most extensive. I left feeling confident with his examination and findings. So much so, I felt compelled this morning to tell you about it.

If you are interested in visiting with the good Doctor, his concierge offices are located at 1010 Kennedy Drive, Suite 402. Telephone 305-998-4205.

Off Key West and near the Dry Tortugas, an underwater discovery: A 19th century hospital and cemetery found on a submerged island.

The hospital served as a 19th century quarantine and cemetery for yellow fever patients between 1890 and 1900.

The cemetery was known as the Fort Jefferson Post Cemetery.

Those buried in the Cemetery were military men serving and military persons improsoned at the Fort. The Fort began as a military prison during the Civil War.

A developing trend involves the monday work place. Labeled “bare minimum mondays.” Employees encourage themselves to do less than normal work. Just enough to get by. The employee is motivated by self rather than company tasks to be performed. First day back to work in the new week. Don’t get tired.

A TikTok trend.

Created by young people based on a concern for their mental well being.

From my perspective, a great way to get fired.

The Texas shooter/killer who exterminated 5 persons was found yesterday hiding in a closet under a pile of dirty laundry. The closet was in a home less than 20 miles from the scene of his crime. 

The accused is Francesco Oropess. He is guaranteed to get the maximum penalty under Texas law. Unless an insanity plea saves his ass. You never know.

More men are getting perms. Short for permanents. The modern American male is into it.

The preferred style is “soft.”

A man was stabbed in the shadow of the Key West Airport around 7 last night. The incident occurred at the Pines Park on South Roosevelt Boulevard, adjacent to the Airport.

No further details available at this time.

Sargassum, the seaweed mess, has hit record breaking size on its way to Florida. Now 5,000 miles long.

The Keys have already been hit with advance surges. The worst is yet to come. When the big mass arrives, Key West beaches will be absolutely deplorable. Stink, dirty, expensive to clean.

Enjoy your day!

History is interesting. Many times only pieces are shared. Why, I know not. However, such is the way history is reported.

The United States participated in two significant battles during the Spanish-American War. One most everyone knows. The other, few are aware of.

We begin with the one little known. A significant naval battle. The U.S. won. The Asiatic Squadron of the U.S. Navy destroyed the Pacific Squadron of the Spanish Navy after a seven hour long battle. The battle took place May 1, 1898.

Spain lost all seven of its ships. Three hundred eighty one Spanish sailors were killed. No American vessels were lost nor did the U.S. suffer any combat deaths.

The rarely heard of naval battle is known as the Battle of Manila Bay.

The other significant battle has a world wide reputation. A significant U.S. land victory. The Battle of San Juan Hill. The Battle brought fame to Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders. 

The Battle of San Juan Hill was the bloodiest of the war for American troops. The reason two-fold.

First, American troops outnumbered the Spaniards 16 to 1. Which meant there were more Americans available to be killed. Second, the Spaniards held the hill top. The Americans had to charge up an open hill to get at them. The Americans never faltered. They did their duty and many died.

The tornado that hit Palm Beach Gardens at ground level over the weekend was a terrible disaster. Wind speed was 136 mph. Someone videoed cars being picked up by the wind and tossed around. “Flipped” was the term used to describe the air flights of the vehicles.

I never got out on March 17 so missed my once a year St. Patrick Day corned beef and cabbage meal. Got it last night at Brady’s Irish Pub on Flagler. A feast!

I ate at the bar. Seated two stools away was an old friend I have not seen in many years. Amy Culver. A joy to run into her.

When I first came to Key West 30 some years ago, Amy owned Mangoes. At some point she got involved in helping certain African tribes develop. She frequently traveled to Africa to work with them. Post Mangoes, her Key West work involved business consulting.

I got involved with the Key West Cemetery yesterday. Checking out a particular stone.

The world knows of that one particular headstone that reads: “I Told You I was Sick.” I was not searching for that stone. I was looking for the one about owning a piece of Key West. Finally came across it: “I Always Dreamed Of Owning A Small Piece Of Key West.”

Great golf sunday afternoon. The final round of the Mexican Open. Tony Finau won by 3 strokes.

One of the runner ups was Jon Rahm. Rahm and Finau are close friends. It was obvious following the match. Rahm and Finau broadly smiling as Rahm warmly embraced Finau as only friends can.

Rhonda Fleming was a major movie star in the 1940’s and 1950’s. She continued working on a limited basis into the 1990’s. A red haired beauty.

Rhonda was born in 1923 and passed on three years ago in 2020 at the age of 97. God bless her!

We became friends for a brief two day period sometime around 1980. Our meeting place was La Costa outside San Diego. La Costa was a “fat farm” I generally attended twice a year from the mid 1970’s into the 1980’s.

I have written many times of the friends I made there The men included William Holden, Rodney Dangerfield and Evel Knievel. Got to know Holden and Knievel well. Dangerfield more than a passing acquaintance, but difficult to say you really knew him. He was the same in person as he was on the screen. No different.

Rhonda and I had next to each other dining tables. We never talked, however. Few talked at lunch or dinner. Too bushed from the exercise. Everyone ate breakfast privately in their rooms.

The last 2 days I was there on one of my trips, Rhonda struck up a conversation. We got to spend 2 lunches and 2 dinners together.

A wonderful woman. A devout Christian. Such was obvious from our conversations.

Tennessee Williams was a Key West resident for many years. He lived on Duncan Street. Lisa’s home today is less than 2 blocks away from the Williams home.

At dinner friday night with Steve and Cindy Thompson, we got into Tennessee Williams. The reason Williams bought the Duncan Street property was because it was on the ocean at the time. Across from his front door the Atlantic.

No more. Today there are several blocks of homes before what is now the beginning of the ocean is reached.

Not the reason I mention Williams today. Actually it is because on yesterday’s date May 1 in 1955, Williams won a Pulitzer Prize for “Cat On A Hot Tin Roof.” Recall the great movie starring Paul Newman, Elizabeth Taylor, and Burl Ives.

Sloan tonight at 6. We’re working on the Baron collection.

Enjoy your day!

Happy Birthday Willie Nelson! Ninety years old!

His birthday yesterday April 29.

One of the best, if not the best, country singers of all time. Favorites like On The Road Again, Always On My Mind, Okie From Muskogee, and A Song For You. 

My particular favorite is On The Road again. The opening stanza: “On the road again / Just can’t wait to get on the road again / The life I love is making music with my friends.

Nelson still working. Currently on a cross country tour and has 30 upcoming concerts. The thought occurs he could have had Biden on the tour and 30 concerts. Then again, Biden may be too young.

A two day 90th birthday bash began at the Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl last night. Notable singers galore taking to the stage to perform in his honor.

Yes, one of the best!

The White House Correspondents Dinner last night. Two stars. President Biden and Roy Wood Jr.

Biden missed the boat. He could have been a comedian. He was par excellant!

Came across some purported words of wisdom: “Adam was the first lucky man, he had no mother-in-law.”

Brings to mind my mother-in-law. A lovely lady. However, don’t think she ever liked me.

Her daughter/my wife was pregnant five times. Each in close proximity to the next. The first four delivered fine. The final and fifth aborted on its own early in the pregnancy.

Each time my wife and I hurried to tell her parents the happy news regarding a pregnancy, my mother-in-law looked at me and said the same thing: “Bastard!”

I have been working organizing my Jack Baron collection. Works by other artists are being rearranged also. I have several Renoir lithographs/etchings. One is my sentimental favorite. It is a lithograph Renoir did of Louis Valtat in 1904. Valtat was a fellow artist and Renoir’s personal friend. They frequently worked together and shared techniques.

The work is part of an edition of 950. Signed in the stone in the bottom right hand corner. I purchased it in the mid 1970’s from a dealer in New York who I purchased a significant number of pieces of art from. He told me at the time there were only 5 of the lithos remaining.

Twenty five to thirty years later, I was in the Metropolitan Museum of Art wandering through the impressionist wing. A new section had been added. A small corridor with lithographs and etchings. There before my eyes as I walked along was my Renoir! I was excited! Thrilled!

A woman with the Museum was seated at a desk in the corridor. I hurried to her and asked about the Renoir of Louis Valtat. I did not mention I had one. She went on to tell me of their friendship, etc. Then added there were only five left in existence. I blurted out…..I have one!

Is the story of only five true. I don’t know. What is important is the affection I have for the piece.

Bess Levin described the world’s reaction to Tucker Carlson’s departure: “The world celebrated like it was V-E Day!”

On this day in 1947, New York City for the first time decided to honor Babe Ruth. The Sultan of Swat, the Bambino. One of the game’s best hitters.

New York City named the day Babe Ruth Day.

The year 1898. The Spanish-American War was ongoing. Key West was suffering from an increase in prices because of the war. Soda was 15 cents, lemonade 20 cents and beer 25 cents. Drinking water was expensive also. Not because of the war, however. There was a drought. It had not rained in ages.

Enjoy your Sunday!

I don’t knw what smells more. The sargassum building up on Key West beaches or the revelations coming to a head about Supreme Court Justices. First there was Clarence Thomas. Then Neil Gorsuch. Now the Chief Justice himself, John Roberts.

Jane Roberts is the Chief Justice’s wife. She earned $10.3 million as a legal consultant for elite top law firms from 2007-2014. She was employed by the lawyer search firm Major Lindsey & Africa. The gross fees paid the firm were $13.3 million. Jane Roberts received from that amount $10.3 million in commissions.

She was the firm’s top earner.

She joined the firm 2 years after her husband became Chief Justice.

The information broke yesterday. A co-employee at Major by the name of Kendal Price filed a whistleblower complaint. The complaint noted that at least one law firm she had placed an attorney with had a case before the Chief Justice. He wants “public scrutiny” of Jane’s income given the influential position of her husband.

The stench a sickening one.

I warned last week when writing about Clarence Thomas that he was only the first of other matters that would come to light re other Justices. Not because I was privy to anything. However, one rotten apple in a barrel means there are others. Within days, Gorsuch popped up. Now the Chief Justice’s wife.

Which Justice will be next? Guaranteed there will be more.

Marjorie Taylor Greene has a vile tongue. She is despicable to the core. She is considered the leading candidate for the Vice President position on a Trump ticket.

Her mouth exposed her inner nature once again this week.

She was examining Randi Weingarten at a Congressional hearing. Weingarten is the President of the American Federation of Teachers. Weingarten married a woman who had two children. Weingarten adopted the two children.

Greene attacked her motherhood: “People like you need to admit that you’re just a political activist…..not a mother.” Boiled down means a step mom or adoptive mother is lacking in some regard as are the children themselves. Greene’s attack boiled down to…..You are not a mother!

Michael Steele is a familiar figure on TV talk shows. Especially MSNBC. He took it as a personal affront her disparaging Weingarten for not being a “biological mother.” He issued a tweet: “Well, the woman who adopted me, cared for me, raised me, educated me and at 95 still smiles when I walk in the room didn’t need biology to be my mother.”

Yesterday on Morning Joe, Steele reminded everyone that a little boy named Jesus had a step father, not a biological one.

Big Key West news! Dion’s sold to Circle K.

The question on everyone’s mind: Will Circle K continue to sell Dion’s famous “Dion’s chicken?” Popular and tasty. Even I occasionally treat myself to a few pieces.

A yesterday Citizens’ Voice comment: “Why are saw-off shotguns considered more dangerous than assault rifles? Sawed-off shotguns were banned nationally in the 1930’s and that passed the Second Amendment test. The NRA has fewer than 5 million members and we let them dictate policy by their donations to politicians.”

Sargassum mentioned earlier. A smelly substance.

Sargassum is a leafy seaweed coming up from South America. Already on Keys beaches. Also considered an algae.

Heavier so far than in previous times. Requires raking one time a day. The raking expected to increase to two times a day as the invasion becomes greater.

Sargassum is like a protected species. Cannot be harvested till it reaches shores because it provides crucial environmental benefits for many marine species. The floating sargassum serves as a shelter and breeding ground for fish, crabs, and endangered sea turtles.

As the sargassum washes ashore and begins to decompose, it degrades water quality and pollutes beaches. The decaying algae releases ammonium and hydrogen sulfur. Result is an unpleasant odor like rotten eggs and can irritate the eyes, nose and throat. The hydrogen sulfide is especially dangerous. Poses worrisome reparatory health risks.

Aristotle said: “We make war that we may live in peace.”

Sort of true. Depends which side you’re on.

Another great evening at La Te Da. Dinner with Steve and Cindy Thompson last night. A long evening. We drank champagne and talked about everything.

Steve and Cindy were especially excited. They spent their wedding night in 1982 at La Te Da.

Busy afternoon. Sloan at noon. Going to prepare for some Jack Baron stories I want to begin this week.

Enjoy your day!

The Great Sea Battle tonight! The height of the Conch Republic Celebration!

Seven pm. Key West Harbor. Best place to watch anywhere from the Ocean Key Sunset Pier all the way to the Galleon. Any spot along the way.

Watch the Conch Republic’s Air Force and Navy battle U.S. jets and battle ships. Like nothing you would believe!

The battle is over at 8. Followed immediately by a Surrender Ceremony and Victory Party at the Schooner Wharf Bar.

I will mis the event tonight. Too old to watch the battle. Too much walking. Too much water and whatever else sprayed on spectators. Instead I will enjoy a pleasant dinner with with Steve and Cindy Thompson at La Te Da. We will be dry, except for a drink or two. Roomy and comfortable.

Steve and Cindy have seen more Conch Republic battles than I. They have been part of Key West 20 years longer than I. I’m sure I will hear some stories, however.  Always a pleasure to be with them. They lived through those “days” beginning in the mid 1970’s. The foundation for today’s Key West.

Manatee Dually (pronounced Doo-Lee) was rescued for the 13th time by the Grassy Key Manatee Rescue Team. Monday in Key Largo.

Same problem for the 13th time. 

Dually weighs 1,400 pounds. Fishing lines entangled her muzzle and face, both pectoral flippers and tail. She could neither breathe nor eat. In danger of death. The doctors considered her problem “life threatening.” 

Rescued and saved again! The doctors hope she has learned this time and will be more careful in her drinking and eating habits. Dually has to learn to stop being a “serial entangler” and “beggar.”

The way it was during Prohibition in Key West.

On this day in 1926, Sheriff Deputies made raids seeking Prohibition violations. Despite attempts to pour it down the drain, booze, along with a slot machine, were found at Mexicano’s Stand at Petronia and Elizabeth Streets. A large quantity of illegal liquor was also found at La Concha Café on Duval Street.

Only in Key West. On this day in 1992, police made a gruesome discovery at a house on Southard Street. They found a man who had been dead for two months and his room mate was unaware he was dead.

Is the tide turning?

Abortion bans failed to pass in two conservative states this week. Bills that would have restricted abortions. The states South Carolina and Nebraska.

Why? Could be conservative legislators are heeding the signs that anti-abortion laws will galvanize women to vote them out of office.

A correct observation. Repeal of Roe v. Wade and its aftermath is bringing women of all ages and parties together.

On this day in 1945, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and his mistress were executed by Italian partisans as they attempted to flee Italy.

Their bodies were taken to a gas station in Milan and hung upside down from a metal pole. People then shot at and beat the dead bodies.

On one of my many Milan visits, I visited the location and the pole. All I could think was how Mussolini’s people turned on him. He initially created a better life for them. Then became a megomaniac. He decided to become a major authoritarian figure as his hero Adolph Hitler. He partnered with Hitler and together they brought Italy down.

Eventually, Hitler brought himself down.

History shows us most if not all authoritarians end up the same way. Despised by their own people. Killed by their people or themselves.

Beware authoritarian wanna be figures in the U.S. History repeats itself!

A Mary Jane Holan wrote and asked if she and her husband could meet with me and have dinner when they visit in June. They are Jack Baron collectors and have read Irma and Me.

I would be delighted and wrote them accordingly. Only problem is I somehow lost their email and my response.

So Mary Jane, please write again so I can respond. Write me at chairmansuls@gmail.com.

Enjoy your day!