50 Years ago - January 27, 1960

Fifty years ago today I rode the 6:30 AM train from Providence, Rhode Island to Boston. I was going to be sworn into the United States Navy at 8:30 AM. A moment that would change my life forever.

First I will try to recap the events that shaped my decision to join the service. I graduated from a high school that only offered a college course. Latin was required. I enjoyed my high school years as I went to a school full of what would be classified as nerds. We were all expected to go on to college and beyond. In September of 1959 I started in the Engineering curriculum at the University of Rhode Island. My dad was an engineer and I was told that was the path for me. Well I was unhappy for many reasons there. I was not motivated by any of the instructors or the material. I managed to pass all the main subjects with marginal marks. I never really figured out the slide rule, mostly I didn't care. I was good at Math but did not really like doing it. I could not see myself doing this the rest of my life.

I wanted to switch to Business and my dad said no. So two days before the second semester began, on a whim I went to the Federal Building and shopped recruiters. Thankfully, the Army and the Marines had met their quota for January. I walked into the Navy recruiters office and asked if they had an opening and could I leave the next day. He said if I was not running from the law I could leave in two days. He explained that if I was a high school grad and could pass the test I would be guaranteed a school. I told him I was dropping out of college and I immediately took the test and got a perfect score. I looked up at the list of schools and picked three from Navy Aviation. I would be attending one of those schools after boot camp. He sent me to take a physical while he called the Chief of Police in my town. I asked him to tell the chief not to tell my father as I would do that.

When I went home that afternoon and told my mom that I joined the Navy, she teared up and told me to wait until after supper to tell him so we could have a peaceful supper. My dad was disappointed and upset. He was sure that I had ruined my life and would end up a bum. My dad came to this country as a young boy, learned English in 6 months. He worked a year in the mills in New Bedford after high school to save money for college. He dug ditches during college to support himself and his education. Here I was throwing it away. He did agree to drive me to the train station. He hugged me as I left for the train.

So at 8:30 AM EST I took the oath for the U S Navy along with about 30 young men from New England. We were scheduled to take a plane out of Logan airport at 1 PM. We got to the airport in light snow and shortly the snow came down hard and Logan closed we were all bussed to a hotel in Sculley Square. In 1960, Sculley Square was called the combat zone. Several of the new sailors got tattoos, drunk and in trouble before they even got to boot camp. I was rooming with a boy from New Bedford and we stayed put. So began the greatest adventure of my life. After boot camp I went to Jet Mechanic school outside of Memphis, Tennessee, one of only two landlocked Navy bases back then. A tribute to the power of their U S Senators. It was a marvelous time in a young mans life. I was there for the Cotton Carneval and saw Elvis Presley in his Convertible. Beale Street was off limits but I managed to listen to the Blues. I had grits for the first time. I also experienced segregation for the first time.

I then went to training on a specific jet engine and was flown over to Europe to catch up to what would become my duty for the rest of my enlistment. I was attached to VA 36. The squadron flew off the USS Saratoga and when in home port we went to NAS Cecil Field outside of Jacksonville, Florida. I spent most of my time as a plane captain. Working on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier at night was the most exciting and dangerous place I have ever been. I made three Med cruises, was on the Cuban Blockade and saw and did things that I would never have had the opportunity to experience.

In retrospect, joining the Navy was the best thing I could have done. I grew up on that flight deck and the good times and the bad times made me a better man and a better husband and hopefully a better father.

It took me 11 years of night school to get my BS and MBA in Business Management after the Navy. I have always been proud that I volunteered, served my time and got an honorable discharge. My dad once told me that he was amazed at how well I supported my family without being an Engineer. I was pleased by that.

Mobile Point Light at Fort Morgan Alabama

The history of the Mobile Point Light is intertwined with that of Fort Morgan. Alabama may have the shortest coastline of all the Gulf states, but it has the largest bay - Mobile Bay. During the war of 1812 the United States recognized the importance of this bay and took control during the war. In 1819, two years before ceded the region, work began on a fort to be constructed at Mobile Point the western most point of the peninsula that stretches across most of the bay. Completed in 1834, the fort was named Fort Morgan in honor of General Daniel Morgan a Revolutionary war hero.




The first of three lighthouses was completed on the point in 1822. The light was only visible 10 miles out at sea and ships had a difficult time detecting the beacon. The light was changed to flashing, but mariners were confusing it with the Pensacola Light. In 1858 a 200 foot tower was built on Sand Island three miles off shore from Mobile Point. The Mobile Point light was no longer needed as a landfall and was downgraded to a harbor light.

Upon the outset of the Civil War, Confederate troops took control of the fort. In August 1864, Admiral Farragut approached the entrance to the bay with 18 ships. After one of the ships hit a torpedo (at that time mines were referred to as torpedoes) Farragut gave his famous command "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead". During this battle the light tower was damaged. Farragut won the battle but lost 7 ships during the conflict.

After the war, a temporary wooden tower was placed near the crippled lighthouse and the old brick tower was demolished. A second 30 foot iron structure was erected in 1873 along with a new keepers house. In 1963 a modern steel tower was erected (pictured below) and the small iron tower was cut from its base and ended up at a scrap metal company where it remained intact. When I visited Fort Morgan I was told that it was being refurbished and would eventually become part of the exhibit at the fort.

There are several oil platforms just off the beach at the fort. The smell of crude oil permeated the air and was very noticeable during the visit.

The massiveness of the fort was evident everywhere we walked. The brickwork was outstanding and a tribute to the folks who labored here. Following are several views around the fort.

Lastly, another view of the modern light tower,

Big Brown (UPS) on a rainy day

Carol and I had been to a number of local stores looking for a particular brand of shampoo. Several stores said they used to carry that brand, but no longer. We found a Internet site that carries that product. We ordered 6 bottles and they would be shipped via UPS. I followed the progress using the tracking number. Thursday morning (1/21) I saw that the package was on the truck to be delivered. Thursday was also a rainy day here and we had no plans that required us to be out and about. In fact, Carol was busy in the front room completing alterations for a neighbor. So when I saw that the tracking had been updated and the package delivered I was surprised because their had been no knock on the door. We went looking all around the house, no package. I called UPS and was assured that the package must be there. They were very apologetic and told me that I had to initiate a trace with the vendor. I was irate. I said I don't want your apology and I should not have to do all the work because your driver screwed up. Call the driver I demanded. We can't do that he is on the road. Well he damn sure updated your computer. At this point I was transferred to a higher source who immediately apologized. I again said don't tell me you are sorry, contact the driver. To make a long story shorted, they agreed and took my phone number and told me I would get a call back. A short time later, the UPS truck arrived and he told me right house number wrong street, I missed by one block.

My phone rang and it was a manager in the local distribution center. He told me that he was glad I got my package and you know, you have to understand its a rainy miserable day.

Yeah right! Apparently on rainy days any street will do as long as the house number is correct. I know UPS prides itself on doing a great job and they do. What rankles me is that I was the one they wanted to do all the hassle of calling the vendor and starting a trace for their error.

Tiny

About eight weeks ago, Carol and I were afraid that we would have to have Tiny put to sleep. Tiny is at least 16 years old. Carol rescued him over 14 years ago and the vet back then estimated his age at 2 years plus. Tiny has been plagued by skin problems for over a year. He was seen by a vet in Rhode Island and three different vets here in Panama City Beach. Each time he would be put on steroids and or antibiotics. It would get better for awhile then flare up again. We bathed him with medicated shampoo and he had a special diet. Nothing worked long term.Then he started with walking difficulty and he could no longer make the leap onto Carol's lap. If she tried to pick him up he would cry out in pain. Sometimes he would cry just turning over on his fleece throw. We started taking our Yorkie that we rescued to a Doctor recommended by the Animal Control Center and we liked him. We decided to take Tiny to see him. Our primary concern was what would be best for his quality of life. The doctor looked him over felt his stomach and listened to his heart and lungs. Then he asked if Tiny had ever had a thyroid test. Well, we had Tiny tested and Tiny has a slow thyroid. He has been on the medicine for about 6 weeks. It is like the fountain of youth. Tiny is easily jumping onto Carol's lap. His skin has cleared up. He now prances down the street when we walk him and Carol can hold him without him crying. Tiny has been rejuvenated.

Dothan Alabama

The local area around Panama City Beach is served by two local television stations. We do not have a CBS affiliate. We receive CBS from a station in Dothan, Alabama. For several winters I have seen their promos and have wanted to visit the area. I wanted to see a statue that is used in their lead in. I stopped at the Alabama visitor center and learned that that statue is actually in Montgomery. I knew about the many buildings with painted murals but not the content. It turned out to be a nice visit. Dothan is about 90 miles from our home. We discovered that the murals honor their culture, industry, history and favorite sons.


Dothan Riot



Dothan was the scene of a deadly altercation on October 12, 1889. The town fathers levied a fee on all wagons operating within city limits. Local farmers opposed this tax and formed a body named "Farmers Alliance" to dispute the levy. The arrest of some of the members led to a riot. The violence only lasted a few minutes but resulted in the death of two men and a number of seriously wounded. The local sheriff was arrested charged with murder and found guilty. His conviction was eventually over turned on appeal.

The following scenes depict the early industry of the local area.

Two favorite sons are honored. .

Sherman Rose

Tuskegee Airman

Johnny Mack Brown

Dothan is much larger than I envisioned. The traffic in and around Dothan was heavy. Dothan is home to the Dothan Opera House, Wiregrass Museum of Art, Botanical Gardens and George Washington Carver Interpretive Museum. Porter Hardware, the oldest operating hardware store in Alabama. The exterior and interior remain virtually unaltered since its opening 1889. The store still maintains a large inventory of hardware and hard to find items. Porter Hardware sign is on the side of the wagon in the Turpentine mural.

The ride from Panama City Beach to Dothan was a pleasant drive through rural countryside. Lunch was at the "Pig Out BBQ in Dothan. Carol had the pulled pork plate with cole slaw and potato salad. I had half a chicken with cole slaw and baked beans. We split a chocolate chip cookie for desert. Very nice. We will do this excursion again in the future.

Pensacola Lighthouse

Pensacola is the second oldest city in Florida. Unlike St. Augustine, Pensacola was slow to highlight its ties to Spain, France and England. Five flags have flown over Pensacola. Spain three times, France, England, the Confederate States of America and the United States. When the United States acquired Pensacola from Spain the Florida Legislature petitioned for a federal naval depot at Pensacola. It was soon determined that a lighthouse was needed. In 1823 before a lighthouse could be built a lightship was sent from New Orleans. The lightship Aurora Borealis was on site by June, but problems arose and the ship failed to provide a proper navigation aide. The U. S. government designated Pensacola the site of a navy yard. Workers built a 40 foot lighthouse on a 40 foot bluff at the south entrance to Pensacola Bay. It was first lit in 1825. This was the first lighthouse built by the U. S. government on Florida's Gulf coast. The Mobile light 40 miles away created confusion for mariners. In 1858 engineers erected a new tower on the north side of the bay's entrance. This existing tower was first lit on January 1, 1859 providing the harbor the necessary beacon. Confederate soldiers shot out the light and it remained dark until 1863 when a fourth order lens re lit the tower. During the Civil War the tower was completely white but today the upper part is black.




In 1914 the federal government establish in Pensacola its first training base for naval aviators. Now known as the cradle of naval aviation the base has occasionally suggested that the tower be razed as it presents a hazard for the low flying planes. Local sentiment has caused the Navy to preserve the lighthouse. The Naval Station is also home to the Naval Aviation Museum and also to the Blue Angels. Admission to base is allowed and their is no charge for visiting the museum. The museum has a gift shop and a cafe. Allow at least four hours for the Naval Museum. A very pleasant day can easily be spent on the base.

St. Joseph Bay Lighthouse

The St. Joseph Bay Lighthouses have had an interesting history. The first lighthouse was built in 1838. The town hoped to become the major center outpacing the rival town of Apalachicola. The future was promising until a ship came arrived in 1841 with yellow fever aboard and the the epidemic wiped out the town. A subsequent hurricane that year destroyed the houses. The lighthouse was abandoned in 1847 in favor of the Cape San Blas Light. The light disappeared and it was determined that it was washed away.

The area around St. Joseph Peninsula was a dangerous site and the lighthouse Board decided that a new structure should be placed on the mainland. This structure allowed the keeper and his family to live in the lighthouse rather than a separate building. On the top of the structure was a light that shone 96 feet above the sea level

The U. S. government discontinued the the light and the structure was left to the elements and was eventually moved to Overstreet Highway for use as a barn. The structure was eventually purchased by a resident in Port St. Joe and it was moved to its present location in Simmons Bayou and converted to a private residence.

I was able to take pictures of this lighthouse from the street. It is a private residence and one should respect his property. I do remember that the couple who own the lighthouse were part of a program on one of the cable channels which highlighted this beautiful lighthouse.

Florida frost and black ice

The Florida Panhandle is experiencing abnormal extended winter chill along with the major part of the country. Our temperatures are running 20+ degrees below normal. I realize the vast majority of the northern states have no sympathy for us.

This morning I went out to walk my dog and the first thing I noticed was the frost covering my car and the frost on the grass shining in the early morning sun. The early morning commuters and joggers are complaining of the black ice. Most of the median strips have underground sprinkler systems. When the local public works department fail to shut the automatic timers off the water spray covers part of the road and freezes during the early morning hours. The same thing happens when the home owner fails to shut their home system off and the sidewalks become icy from the spray that freezes.

We are expecting precipitation tonight and the local weather man says we have the possibility to see some freezing rain. I feel for the farmers. They are rushing to harvest the strawberries and tomatoes. The citrus crop is almost completely picked. But they still must protect their trees.

The weather forecaster is predicting a colder than normal January. I skipped my New years day ocean swim and have not even considered a swim this year.

Where did the time go?

It seems like it was only yesterday that I along with the vast majority of the Information Systems world were working long hours feverishly testing and retesting the program changes to accommodate the year 2000. For those who were oblivious to the problem, let me explain. I started my IS career in 1964 as a entry level programmer. Back then computer hardware was expensive and painfully limited in size and processing power. Programming techniques were honed to save space both in the processing memory and the storage available. The date fields were 6 positions packed. In the comparison depending on the requirements the year was compared and the next year was always a higher number. Even in the late 1960's it was known that when the year 2000 rolled around there would be issues. Many times we joked that we would retire in 1999. Besides, the year 2000, it was so far away.

That is the reason that 10 years ago I was working long hours. We had to complete all processing for the year 1999 and then set up the files for year 2000. We were in good shape, we had been reprogramming for the better part of 1999. I had taken all our files to a hot site in Philadelphia and loaded our system and files on their computer and completed a mandatory recovery to satisfy the auditors. Once that was accomplished I changed the date on the computer and processed as of 12/31/99 and continued processing for selected dates in January including the month end close for January 2000. Still harbingers fore casted that power grids would fail, along with other dire predictions. We geared up, the fuel tank for out emergency generator was topped off, backup mechanical systems were tested. We were ready.

The New years eve celebration for the new millennium promised to be a blockbuster around the world. The IS group were working. We monitored the New year arriving around the world. The power still worked in Australia. Our data centers in Europe continued to work as planned. The Canadian Maritime were OK, Our New Year came and we continued our testing. Every thing was going well. Needless to say we worked well into the early morning. We went for a few hours sleep and were back as folks drifted in from the various departments to do their testing. Over the next few months we encountered an occasional bump that was easily fixed.

So the biggest New Years celebration was observed by my wife home alone and I spent it with my colleagues in our Information Systems group. There are times that I wish I could have been home at midnight with my wife, Marie. At times I am somewhat bitter about missing that time with her.

This has been a decade of great change in my life. Seven grandchildren were born in this decade. My company went through change and I was retired a week after I turned 62 in 2003. My son went over my finances and it was determined that I need not work again unless I wanted too. Two weeks after retiring my wife discover a lump in her left breast. So began 10 months of surgery, chemo, and radiation. We had a little more that two good years before the cancer came back with a vengeance. we did use that time to good advantage traveling to the Rockies and national parks out west. We found out just before Christmas 2006. We kept the news to ourselves until after Christmas but the children knew something was wrong. Once again Chemo and after the first rotation cancer was worse. Eventually 6 different types of chemo were tried. Nothing slowed the advance and the chemo physically damaged her heart but not her determination. Her fight ended in August 2007.

We had been snow birds together for two years and I went to Florida alone later that year. My son urged me to place my profile on Yahoo which I did with little enthusiasm. I had a few first lunches and then quit the process. I did drive back to Rhode Island for Christmas to be with my children as best I could.

In January, I decided to send an "icebreaker" to a lady who was in the same city that I was staying in. The one thing I disliked was eating alone. I did not like it when I was required to travel on business. I was hoping to find someone who was a conversationalist to have lunch or dinner with. So I met Carol who made it quite clear that she wanted a friend for walking on the beach, an occasional lunch and nothing more. Well we became great friends exploring the Florida Panhandle. She had been in Florida over 35 years and yet, I took her to places she had never visited. I invited her to come to Rhode Island for a 4Th of July party. Apparently that made her nervous and she decided to end our dating. Our separation was short lived and she soon decided to come to Rhode Island for a week, then it was 3 weeks, then she decided to retire and come with me for the summer. We were married this past Valentine's day and we bought a home here on the Panhandle.

So in retrospect it was a decade of great change, great sorrow, and a new beginning with great happiness. Today at lunch we talked about our parents and how long they lived (my mom is 94 and going strong) and we each hope that we have at least two decades ahead of us together. I do know that time seems to be flying.

Ramblings from Panama City Beach

The weather has turned "chilly" by local standards. The sun is out but the temps only managed to climb into the high 50's today. I'm still in short sleeves and shorts. I will admit that the wind can bite the skin.

Carol and I are back riding our bikes. Riding into the wind today provided a good workout.

Gizmo - ahh Gizmo. A few weeks ago we came back home and found dark Hershey Kisses paper on the floor. Apparently Gizmo got up on the dining room table and ate some. We called the Vet and have been watching him closely. We figured we were out of danger when we discovered his morning deposit was bloody. We immediately called our Vet and we took him in this past Tuesday. Gizmo had colitis. We got him back today. He is on a strict diet and we need to watch him. It may not have been the chocolate. I may have caused the problem when I gave each dog a piece of cured ham. There will be no more table scraps. Even the doggy bone treats have to be a certain type. At least both dogs like the special dog food that that Gizmo must eat.

When we leave the house we must first Gizmo proof it. Bedroom doors are closed. Dining room chairs tilted towards the table. The breakfast bar stools are pushed in as far as possible. The butter dish, and any current fresh baked cookies are placed on top of the refrigerator. Laptops are folded shut. There are times when I think he is a mountain goat rather than a small Yorkie.

We renewed our yearly pass to the Florida State Parks. A bargain in my opinion. We regularly visit about five parks on the Panhandle and plan on seeing more this winter. We must go into St. Andrews State Park at least ten times a month.

We are starting to see more cars from Quebec, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan. I even saw one from Maine today. We stopped at the Condos and visited with Jay and Dixie from Michigan who came down for December 1st.

The waitress at the Pickle Patch referred to me as a "local yokel". Carol assures me my Northern accent is intact y'all.

I need some gift cards and I will be done Christmas shopping. The Christmas cards are mailed!

Tonight is the HOA monthly meeting. This will be our second. I'm sure Palm Cove will continue on in spite of the group that is in charge. They are nice folks trying to do good. . . but you can't please everyone. It seems most people who are there have an agenda of their own. I have no agenda. I like my street, my neighbors and when I go to bed it is quiet here. My lawn is nicely groomed and the trash is picked up twice a week. Soon my house will be power washed. They are one street away this week.

As the crow flies, I am less than a half mile from the water. Yesterday we could hear the surf from our driveway. We went to watch the power of mother nature. With the dark stormy sky and the pounding water, just awesome.

The time is flying, I can't fathom that we have been here two and a half months already.

My son and his girls will be at Disney a week from tomorrow. I am planning a quick trip to see them for an afternoon. Carol will spend the time with her daughter.

I love all the palm trees that are decorated for Christmas and NO I will not miss snow.

Tilting at Windmills - Cable Company Woes

I have had a devil of a time this year with Cable providers. It began in early spring when I called Cox Communications in Rhode Island to reactivate my connection there. Cox is finally facing competition from another provider and has created bundled packages at a reduced price with a long term commitment. I did not want a long term commitment as I did not plan on staying in Rhode Island that long. I had to say I would cancel the entire package before I got my way. The phone rep had a hard time understanding why I would not buy in. You see, I would save $9.00 a month but the penalty was over $150.00 for an early out. I had been experiencing problems with the digital cable. I would get "tiling" gaps in the audio and occasionally the picture would disappear. I had many techs come to the house. At one point they rewired the house and then charged me for that service. I refused to pay because the problem was still there. I did cancel my land line as a form of protest. I was not going to change my Internet connection with only a couple of months left before I left for my winter home. A few days before I left, I saw the Cox truck up the street. I walked over and asked if he was fixing the aforementioned problems. He asked me how I knew. I told him that myself and my next door neighbor had the same problem. He then called his supervisor. I don't know if they fixed it.

Once in my new home in Florida, I arranged for Knology to connect me with digital cable and inter net. I opted for no land line as I found out how peaceful it can be without a land line. My choice was simple, I live in a private residential community with all utilities underground and Knology is the only choice save Direct TV a company that I have no use for. I have a DVR in both locations. Almost immediately I started having problems. There would be a loud noise and the screen would fill with snow and loud static. A few seconds later the picture and audio would return. Then we would experience the picture just freezing. I placed a call and the cable guy came out. The first thing he did was criticize the installer. He made several adjustments outside and pronounced the cable as it should be. I asked what caused my woes and he said it was normal and attributed the interruptions to either the U S Air Force flying overhead, or the position of the satellite. I was skeptical. Later that night the little interruptions returned and over the next several days it got so bad that it was unwatchable. I called, the phone person told me that the DVR box was bad and it should be changed. I was scheduled for 8 AM the next morning. Shortly after 8 AM the doorbell rang. I opened the door and the same cable guy tersely said, "it's fixed, its a problem in the center". I said the phone person wants the box changed. Nope it's fixed. I said I wanted a new box or I would cancel Knology. He said, "fine go get Comcast". Hmmm, we both know I can't do that. Once again the trouble started that day. I was able to tolerate it until it got so bad that I was almost ready to get a dish as several of my neighbors had done. I placed a service call and they said I would see the repairman later that day. The doorbell rang and it was a different man (horay). He asked what was going on and I related the history from day one. He said this is a new box never been in service before here. First he checked the signal and told me that was not the problem. He went to the truck came back with a black box and connected to the DVR. Hmmm, its a bad box. This cable guy changed the DVR box and it has been over a week now with no troubles. Imagine the aggravation on my part and the added cost to Knology that could have been averted if the first cable guy did his job right instead of blaming the Air Force jets. etc.

Cape San Blas Lighthouse

Driving East from St. Marks Lighthouse, the Cape San Blas Lighthouse is the fourth one along the Florida Panhandle. The lights at Cape San Blas have not survived without difficulty. The first two lights built were destroyed by storms. The third lighthouse was damaged by military forces during the war between the states but survived only to be toppled by beach erosion in 1882. Below is a picture of the shore area near the existing lighthouse.

In 1883 the light was replaced by a 98 foot skeletal lighthouse comprised of eight cast iron legs that support the watch room and lantern at the top of the tower. The tower initially stood 1500 feet from the shore and in 1894 a powerful storm left it damaged and standing in water. In 1918 it was moved a quarter of a mile inland to its current location. The light was lit in 1919. Today the light stands no more than 200 feet from the waters edge. The current keepers quarters were completed in 1905. One of the buildings was restored in 1999 by the Air Force for their use. The second visible above was restored in 2005 and is now used as a gift shop. The selection is minimal but it is worth a visit.

This is a beautiful location and although there is precious little beach left, it is worth the time to walk along the waters edge. The fallen tress and large pieces of driftwood demonstate the power of the sea.

Cape St. George Light

The Cape St. George Light is the third light as I continue East along the Florida Panhandle.

The first St. George lighthouse was built in 1833 at west Pass. It was rebuilt in1848 on Cape St. George. The hurricane in 1851 toppled that light. The third lighthouse was completed 1852. The light was eventually automated in 1949. The Coast Guard deactivated the light in 1994. Beach erosion at the site of the lighthouse continued to threaten the light until the structure collapsed on October 21, 2005.

Remnants of the fallen structure were salvaged and the St. George Lighthouse Association led the effort to rebuild the lighthouse. Volunteers cleaned the mortar off the more than 22,000 original bricks and assisted in the reconstruction. The tower is 75 feet high and is now located in the center of St. George Island. Reconstruction was completed in 2008. You can get to the island by taking Island Drive (SR 300) off US 98 in Eastpoint. The beauty of the expanse of water from the 4.2 mile bridge is breathtaking. It is well worth the time to drive west from the lighthouse to the St. George State Park. The dunes have been preserved in their natural state. Several walkways lead to the sandy beach.

We stopped for lunch in Apalachicola which is a quaint fishing village and tourist attraction. It is noted for the oysters. I had them on the half shell for lunch. Carol enjoyed a nice grilled grouper sandwich.

This was the first excursion with both dogs. They were good. Tiny slept most of the time and Gizmo needed to look out the window most of the time. We are pleased that Gizmo travels well.

GIZMO

There was a news item on the local news station that a woman had surrendered a number of Chihuahuas. So yesterday we went to the Bay County Animal Control Center. We went to see if we could get a short haired Chihuahua. There was one left but he apparently had bitten one of the inmates who are on work release. As we walked around the numerous cages we saw this very sad looking Yorkie. We saw several varieties of small dogs , yet we gravitated back to this Yorkie who would not move off his mat in the back of the cage. An animal officer walked by and we asked about him. She told us that he was not very social. I noted that he had not bitten anyone and could we hold him. She got him out and handed him to Carol and we held him. He was and is very thin. We found out that he is four years old and his original owner gave him up as she was moving. He had been in the shelter since October 27th. Yesterday was his 8th day. We borrowed a leash and took him for a walk. He seemed happy to be outside. When we returned I filled out an application. They tested him for heart worm which was negative. Then they gave him his shots and we got a free card to get him his rabies shot at a local vet. He had no hesitation and jumped right into the car. He seemed happy. We stopped at a Pet Supermarket and bought new collars and matching leashes for Gizmo and Tiny. New dishes and a crate for Gizmo. I took the above picture as soon as we got home and just before Carol gave him his welcome to us bath. That collar was trashed.

He is trained and likes to go out for walks. It appears that he has never had dry dog food. We soaked some dry food with home made chicken soup with a little chicken and small pieces of carrot. That he ate, but not the dry. Tiny seems thrilled to have a playmate and they are bonding and were sleeping on the same throw for a while. This morning he finally broke down and ate the food that was left in his dish. I think that us getting him to a better diet will take time. We did get him his rabies shot this morning.

We also drove back out to the shelter to return the leash. I asked the officer how long they keep the animals before they are put to sleep. She told me Gizmo was on the list for last night. It seems eight days is the magic number. Carol and I believe that Gizmo is social, but we think he was grieving at the loss of the only master that he had known. He is no longer shaking when we hold him and seems relaxed. He will sit on command and stay for a wee bit. We are gently breaking him of jumping on the furniture. He seems to know what "no" means and he jumps right down. We went to the market and when we returned he was so excited to see us.

During the time that we were in the shelter we were both surprised at how many dogs are being surrendered. Most say they are moving and can't keep the dog. We suspect that some of the folks we saw just cannot afford them any longer.

As the saying goes "Gizmo fell in S*%t and came out smelling like a rose. "

Crooked River Lighthouse

The Crooked River Lighthouse is a 103 foot skeletal tower with 138 steps from ground to the lantern room. It was built in 1895 to replace the Dog Island Lighthouse destroyed in a hurricane in 1873. The lighthouse was decommissioned by the Coast Guard in 1995. My previous visit was several years ago and the paint had faded badly and the location lacked scenic appeal. I forewarned Carol that this light was going to be a sad sight. We were both pleasantly surprised to see that the light had been restored to its original colors and beauty. The Carrabelle Lighthouse Association along with assistance from the Florida Lighthouse Association and the Florida Communities Trust with an appropriation from the Florida Legislature made it possible to not only restore the Lighthouse but to also build a replica of the Light Keepers Home. The Lighthouse is located at 1975 Highway 98 West, approximately 2 miles west of downtown Carrabelle. There are historical markers on the highway, but it is very easy to go by the single lane dirt road leading into the area as I did. I needed to reverse direction and then enter the grounds.

Future plans are for a museum to be located in the Keepers House with lighthouse artifacts and period furniture. The ground include a covered picnic pavilion and playground equipment that includes a 70 foot replica of a pirate ship, the Carrabella.

As you can see, it is a very pleasant location and Carol and I were able to chat with the person who will be setting up the museum. She came out on the porch to tell us about future plans even though the building was closed on weekdays. A future visit is planned and perhaps this will be our fourth tower that we will climb together.

Florida's Forgotten Coast

I picked up a flier titled Florida's forgotten coast. It was developed with financial assistance from VISIT FLORIDA. It highlighted four lighthouses East of Panama City Beach. Carol and I set out to see these. The first lighthouse that I will write about is St. Marks Lighthouse located in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge encompassing 70,000 acres.





The original lighthouse was first constructed in 1829 and completed in 1831. It survived the Second Seminole Indian War in 1835. Erosion threatened the light and the original builder Winslow Lewis was commissioned to build a new tower on a safer location. In the 1860's the Civil War posed a new threat. The Confederates attempted to blow it up during their retreat in 1865 so that it could not be used as a lookout for the Union Forces. They did not destroy the tower but the damage was sufficient that a complete rebuild was necessary after the war. The tower was heightened to its present focal plane of 82 feet above sea level . The lighthouse was automated in 1960 and remains an active aid to navigation to this day. St. Marks Lighthouse is the Easternmost light on the Florida Panhandle.

This picture of the lighthouse was taken from the Gulf side along the waters edge. It was necessary to walk along an overgrown path between the gulf and a marsh. Sometimes alligators will sun themselves nearby. It is necessary to be aware of the surroundings.

When we stopped at the visitor center, we were delighted to find out that the St Marks was one of the routes that the Monarch Butterflies follow on their migration to Mexico.

As we walked along the path away from the lighthouse between the Gulf and the inland water, we literally saw thousands of the Monarch Butterflies. The picture below does not do justice to the beauty of the butterflies.

There were hundreds of small crabs scurrying along the sand near the waters edge. As I walked along the sand they would run in the opposite direction. I felt like a shepherd directing my flock.

Our visit to the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge was worth the drive. It was a typical beautiful day on the Florida Panhandle. I have a Golden Eagle Passport while entitles me to free access to our National Parks. We went to see a lighthouse and got to see more wildlife that we did not expect.

Over the next several days I will write about the Lighthouses as we work our way westward on the Panhandle.

Mighty 8th Air Force Museum

Recently I made three trips between Rhode Island and Florida. During one of those trips I stopped in Pembroke, Georgia and spent a couple of days with my good Navy buddy from years ago. We decided to visit the Mighty 8TH Air Force Museum. We had visited there in 2004 when a group of VA 36 Navy guys gathered in the Savannah area. Volunteers are currently restoring a B-17 from WW II and we went to see the progress and once again tour the museum. Above is the entry way from the museum to the grounds.

Below is the B-17 that is being restored by volunteers. It was quite an airplane in its time. The crews had to be cramped inside with guns, ammunition, bombs and electronics. These fliers were truly part of the greatest generation. I don't believe I could have been in the ball turret beneath the plane.

This is chapel that was build on the grounds and is a replica of the chapel that was near one of the Air Bases in England. Many of the crews would visit the chapels before and after missions. We were told that it is a popular site for local weddings.

The furniture inside the chapel came from a small southern church that was being demolished. The stain glass windows were done by a local artisan. The picture does not do them justice.

There are numerous plaques dedicated to the many crews that flew missions during WW II. Some to the crews that survived and many who did not. I chose this one as it reflects the reality that so many of the crews experienced.

The museum is very visible from I 95 and is well worth the side trip and a few hours of time.

10 things I miss in Rhode Island, some I don't

1) My family - Mom, my children and grandchildren, Janine

2) Ev & John

3) My Rhode Island neighbors

4) Shore's Meat Market

5) Beaver Tail Lighthouse

6) My waterfall shower

7) Fall foliage

8) Back country roads

9) 4 Town Farm

10) Waterfire

Things I don't miss

1) Rhode Island politics-mainly the worthless state senators

2) Cox cable and their inability to fix the gaps in audio and video

3) Cold weather and eventually snow

4) Cutting grass

5) Route 95 north by Providence Place Mall - the worse spot between Maine and Jacksonville, FL

You never forget how

It is said that once you learn to ride a bike, you never forget. I arrived at the house in Panama City Beach last Tuesday, October 6Th. Before we left Rhode Island we determined that we would buy bikes. We went to a bike shop in town (Panama City) and started looking. Steve a retired Air Force veteran helped and started our education. I did not want a bike with more speeds that I had fingers. I wanted a fairly soft seat and not one of those narrow damn seats either. After looking at several brands I settled on a Fuji 7 speed that has a longer wheelbase than the other bikes. Steve explained that the pedals and therefore my feet would be ahead of my butt and create less strain on my knees. OK, I'll buy that. Then he said lets take it outside and test ride it. I explained that I did not want to embarrass myself by falling on my ass. He said once you learn how to ride you never forget. I was shaky at first but several times around and my confidence grew. The seat was adjusted and I was sure the mint color was for me. Carol rode several different brands. Carol and I wanted lunch and Steve said he would build a blue Fuji for me to see the other color choice. While we were at lunch I asked Carol which bike she was leaning towards. We agreed that it did not matter if we both got the same color as she also liked the mint. When we got back Carol rode the blue Fuji, and a maroon Raleigh, and one other. She finally settled on a blue Fuji.




Here they are in the driveway. Carol and I started early morning rides the following day. We have added distance and time each day. I can feel my legs gaining strength. I was concerned that my left knee would be a problem as it sometimes buckles when climbing stairs. It is the right knee that aches. The weather has been hot and very humid for this time of year. Even the natives are complaining. We have watched several great sunrises as we ride early morning,

Carol is coming down our street at the end of the morning ride. I asked her to circle the block while I got my camera. She then took my picture with my bike.

I am quite happy with my purchase. I will be hanging in there getting in better shape. There are a few bike trails, but not near our house. Unfortunately, my van cannot accommodate a rear mounted bike rack because of the wind deflector above the rear window. I would have to have a trailer hitch with an inch and a quarter opening installed by U haul and then buy the rack that would fit in the opening. We could put one on Carol's car far less expensively but we want to bring them back to Rhode Island in the spring. Time will tell.

Connor Sebastian

Connor was originally scheduled to make his grand appearance on September 28Th via C-section. Carol and I planned on driving down to our home in Panama City Beach on the 20Th to await his arrival. We were planning on driving Carol's convertible. We would have a week to set up the house before we went to Tallahassee for the birth. Carol would stay with her daughter to help out and I would find my way back to Rhode Island to close up the home there and drive my van down loaded with "needed stuff".

Connor had his own agenda and was born on September 18Th. We left for Florida the following day. The picture above was taken the 21st. We stopped to see the new grandson for a short visit before going to Panama City Beach for the night. The next day we drove back to Tallahassee and I picked up a rental car and we went to Connor's. Carol stayed and I went back to the house packed up and left on Wednesday morning. I stopped for two nights at my old Navy pal's home in Pembroke, GA before the drive to Rhode Island.

While I was home in RI, I managed to see all my children, grandchildren and my mother. I also went to lunch with my sister-in-law and her husband. While home I contacted several real estate agencies and received proposals about selling the house there. I made a decision to make the final decision by January so that the one I pick can list my house in early spring.

I began the last drive down the coast until next spring on Monday the 6Th. I split the 1447 mile drive over two days with 730 miles the first day and 717 the second. The first day is the most stressful crossing over the Hudson River in NYC. I opted for the Cross Bronx Expressway and the George Washington Bridge. It is the most direct way and the way I prefer. It was a bit congested but good for NYC . I do however avoid Washington DC and the beltway, choosing to drive down the Delmarva on route 13 over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - my favorite bridge.

So Carol and I are situated in our home here. We have had a busy few days ordering some new furniture, arranging for cable and Internet and home delivery of the local newspaper. Our most interesting purchase was that we each bought 7 speed bicycles Wednesday. More on that subject to be continued.