Time changes everything. Nothing remains the same. Change constant.
So too with Key West and visitors.
I have been doing Key West for 26 years. Except for the first year, for extended periods each year. The last 11, full time.
Until 5 years ago, Key West was predictable as regards the leaving of tourists and snowbirds.
The monday after Easter Sunday, half left. Their sudden absence obvious.
One week later, the rest left.
From that time forward for several months, locals used to say you could throw a bowling ball down Duval and hit no one.
Did you ever wonder why locals get a discount at restaurants? Simple. Locals used to be the sole source of business after Easter and into the Fall.
No more.
Five years or so ago brought a dramatic change. Tourists and snowbirds still come and go. Yet Key West is always crowded. A bit less after Easter, but not that much so.
The reason why our streets are crowded with cars, bicycles and mopeds. And, of course, pedestrians.
The change the result of excellent advertising of Key West by State and local groups.
Another change is occurring. The flavor of Key West. The funky disappearing. We are becoming as other Florida vacation spots. Men even wearing sport jackets.
My Easter was different. I did the Easter egg hunt and breakfast with Lisa and family. Invited to four dinners/parties in the afternoon. Thought I would hit one or two.
Never made it. Got lazy. Laid around reading, watching TV and snoozing.
Micky Mantle one of baseball’s all time greats. On this day in 1951, Mantle made his major league debut with the New York Yankees.
TV was still in its infancy. Not all baseball games being televised. TV screen 6 inches by 4 inches.
You went to the ball park if you wanted to see the Micky Mantles play. I was privileged to watch Mantle play at Yankee Stadium several times.
Enjoy your day!