How Fast Should You Replace A Windshield?

Above, The Beast in the GOCO Beast Barn. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Earlier this year, a pebble hit and chipped The Beast's windshield.

It left a small "star" shaped chip.

A few weeks ago, I got a windshield repair kit and fixed the chip. So far, it is holding well and no cracks have expanded from the chip.

Above, the chip's location.

If cracks were to form, I would have to replace the windshield. This week's trip to Durango, Colorado will be a test. It held fine during last week's trip to Albuquerque.

A general question of, "How fast should you replace a chipped windshield?" was posed by Do It Yourself RV this week.

It begins with:

A chipped windshield is not only annoying, but it could be compromising the safety of your vehicle. When a vehicle is designed, the windshield is a critical part of the structural integrity. Pressure on the roof of a vehicle with no glass versus one with glass will have a very different outcome.

That being said, having damaged glass in your vehicle can be a pretty serious thing. In contrast, for the glass to be such a large structural and safety feature, it is very strong and difficult to break.

To read more, go here. 

"The Invisible Woman" (1940)

I've had The Invisble Man Legacy Collection DVD box set (Universal Pictures) for about a year, but I had not viewed all of the movies in it.

Last evening, we watched The Invisible Woman (1940) for the first time.

From IMDb:

Eccentric Professor Gibbs, brilliant but impractical, invents an invisibility machine and advertises for a guinea pig. What he gets is Kitty Carroll, an attractive, adventurous model, who thinks being invisible would help her settle a few scores. Complications arise when three comic gangsters steal the machine to use on their boss. But they fail to reckon with the Revenge of the Invisible Woman!

I didn't expect a comedic take on invisibility (given the serious H. G. Wells-based The Invisible Man and its sequel The Invisible Man Returns), but we enjoyed it.

The movie starred Virginia Bruce in the title role and John Barrymore as Professor Gibbs. Shemp Howard appears as a comedic gangster. 

Some machinery in Prof. Gibbs's laboratory were very familiar as they were used in Universal's Frankenstein series.

My grade: A.

10 Most Underrated National Parks

Above, Lassen Volcanic National Park's Devastated Area. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When people think of national parks, they usually think of Yosemite, Yellowstone, Grand Canyon and Great Smoky Mountains. There are plenty more out there that don't get as much attention or visitors.

Yahoo posted an article list of the ten most underrated U.S. national parks. Of the ten, I have visited two of them: Lassen Volcanic National Park and Petrified Forest National Park.

They begin with:

Whether you're exploring your home state solo, taking a cross-country road trip with friends, or embarking on a family vacation halfway across the country, visiting one of America's national parks is a great way to get some fresh air in the wide open while marveling at the natural beauty and wildlife all around you.

So, it makes sense that as travel picks up again this year, many Americans are itching to get out and explore more of these protected lands. According to a 2020 survey commissioned by the National Park Service, most survey respondents said the last national parks they visited were Yellowstone National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, and Yosemite National Park.

But the truth is, there are so many other hidden gems across the U.S. that are ripe for adventure—and some of them you can traverse in just a day. So, if you're looking to beat the tourist crowds while exploring nature, be sure to add the following underrated U.S. national parks to your travel itinerary. 

To read more, go here. 

Whatever Became of...Christina Aguilera?

Above, one of two pages from Metropolis Magazine from 2011 featuring Christina Aguilera and yours truly.

While working on my blog post about eight years since the "Godzilla issue" of Japan's Metropolis Magazine hit the stands, I came across earlier postings of a 2011 article on The Monster Movie Fan's Guide to Japan that was featured in the magazine.

On the same pages where the article on the travel guide appeared was also an article on singer Christina Aguilera. 

A couple of years after those articles appeared, I met Miss Aguilera at work and told her about the articles and offered a copy to her. She indicated that she would have her driver let me know. I don't recall if he ever did or not. I am leaning that he did since I remember bringing a copy.

This got me wondering about what she's been up to lately. I haven't heard of any news on her or any songs (since I just generally listen to Country stations these days) and decided to take a look around. 

Apparently, this has been a good year for her.

Billboard posted yesterday:

It’s been a big year for Aguilera, who released her EP La Fuerza in January, which comes more than 20 years since her first Spanish-language album, Mi Reflejo. “I’ve always had it in me. I never stopped singing in Spanish,” she previously told Billboard. Whenever the opportunities came about where I was really passionate about a project, I’d go for it. I always say when you grow up with something, if it’s part of your household, my mom was fluent in Spanish, that’s how she met and connected with my dad, who’s from Ecuador. I heard the language so much. I always say, when it’s in you, it never leaves you.”

The article also includes some bikini photos.

It is good to see she's doing quite well.

To read the article and see the photos, go here.

8 Years Since Metropolis Mag's "Godzilla" Issue

Above, the "Godzilla" issue cover posted with the Metropolis's Facebook post.

When Godzilla (2014) arrived on the scene from Warner Bros./Legendary Pictures, Japan's Metropolis Magazine published a "Godzilla issue" that also carried an article, "Go Go Godzilla", by yours truly on Tokyo's monster battle sites by Toho Co., Ltd. series of Godzilla movies.

It is hard to believe that eight years had passed since this issue was published. I was reminded by the following Facebook post by Metropolis Magazine two days ago that Facebook sent me a "Memories" reminder on.

Here's the article:

 

Democrats In House Pass "Assault" Weapons Ban

As usual, Democrats are blaming the gun instead of the person firing it.

The House of Representatives passed an "assault rifle" ban bill that will head to the U.S. Senate where it, hopefully, will die. Contrary to what they say, there is no such thing as an "assault rifle".

Reuters reported:

WASHINGTON, July 29 (Reuters) - The U.S. House of Representatives on Friday passed legislation banning assault-style rifles that have been used in mass shootings, sending it to the Senate where it faces likely defeat.

By a mostly partisan vote of 217-213, Democrats won passage of the measure amid public anger over mass murders in which rapid-fire AR-15 rifles were used to kill and wound school children and adults engaging in day-to-day activities.

"They're easier for a teenager to get than to buy a beer," Democratic Representative Lloyd Doggett said during debate. "We've turned our churches, our schools, our shopping centers, our entertainment venues, almost any place into a battleground with one massacre after another," he added.

Democrats have been trying for years to renew a federal ban on the weapon, which was first imposed in 1994 and expired in 2004.

The ban resulted in a significant decrease in mass shootings, according to a 2021 study by Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Republicans have resisted, accusing Democrats of attacking the 2nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which grants the right to "keep and bear arms."

To read more, go here. 

Lightning and Downpours

Above, after getting back home from Denny's. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday, Jess and I went down to Denny's for a snack or an early dinner. As we were driving down to the Flying J, we noticed that it wouldn't be long before the next thunderstorm would arrive.

Sure enough, no sooner than we got back home, the storm started with downpours and lightning show. Some were directly over the house and gave it a little shaking. This lasted for a few hours. We got a good soaking out of this storm. We got back home just in time. Note the storm clouds in the photo above.

This morning, while looking through the National Weather Service website, I saw this map:

It looks strange that the green area of the southwest follows straight along the borders of Arizona, Utah Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. It is probably a reporting glitch or something.

More thunderstorm activity in the Gallup, New Mexico is expected today.

Overnight

Isolated showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Saturday

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 3pm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 76. Light and variable wind becoming southwest 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Saturday Night

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 9pm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. South wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Heavy Rains Over The Weekend

 

The National Weather Service posted the above map showing that the Four Corners region is subject to possible flash flooding (dark green area). Arizona reports receiving above-normal monsoon rains. It is a sure bet that New Mexico has received the same.

While we were having dinner last night at the El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, we heard a loud noise that lasted about 20 minutes. We thought it was some machinery at first, but it actually was heavy rains hitting the roof.

Above, the new El Rancho Hotel's dining room. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It did rain hard at times during the drive back to Jamestown. More of the same is expected through the weekend.

Today

Showers and thunderstorms, mainly after noon. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. High near 78. Light and variable wind becoming northeast 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tonight

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before midnight. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. East wind around 5 mph becoming south after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Saturday

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after noon. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 78. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Saturday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. West wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light and variable after midnight.

Earthquake In Eddy County New Mexico

Yes, even New Mexico gets earthquakes on occasion. Some parts of the state has a history of volcanoes. Lava fields can be seen along Interstate 40 near Grants and Milan.

A 3.2 quake hit yesterday.

Volcano Discovery posted:

A magnitude 3.2 earthquake near Malaga, Eddy County, New Mexico, USA, was reported only 17 minutes ago by the United States Geological Survey, considered the key international and national agency that monitors seismic activity in the US. The earthquake occurred at a very shallow depth of 4.8 miles beneath the epicenter around noon on Thursday, July 28th, 2022, at 1:03 pm local time.

To read more, go here.

Don't Let Biden B.S. You, We're In A Recession

Above, the meter reading of Biden's claim of no recession.

Traditionally, when we have two consecutive quarters of decline in the U.S. economy, the country is in a recession.

This was what has happened. We had two consecutive quarters of decline and the Biden Administration is trying to persuade people semantically that we're not. 

I received the following from my investment banker and he sees us in a recession:

Gross Domestic Product was reported this morning at an annual rate of -0.9%.  Weakness was more broadly based than the first quarter this year, with housing declining due to the substantial increase in mortgage rates.  As I’ve written in these messages for months now, nominal activity remains rather robust and employment is rather strong, but the burst in inflation is gobbling up all the nominal gains.  We are now living with the consequences of the policy response to the COVID shutdowns: federal authorities flooded the economy with massive quantities of new money in 2020 and congress doled out direct stimulus checks to a majority of the population.  The Federal government’s 2020 policy actions remind me of the Dire Straits song Money for Nothin’: Money for nothin’ and your chicks for free.  Once again, we are reminded of the ‘Austrian School’ economists’ assertion that there’s no such thing as a free lunch.

Most economists and investment professionals are calling this a ‘technical’ recession.  We now have two quarters of economic activity in 2022 behind us and both were declines in real (inflation adjusted) terms.  The definition that’s most frequently used as a recession is two consecutive quarters of real economic decline.  The administration is engaging in semantics with the NBER definition of recession trying to assert that we are not in a real recession.

What does this all mean for your portfolio?  We are seeing US equity markets rise strongly in July just at the times otherwise negative economic data is fresh news.  In fact, the US equity market has been up on news of both a substantial Fed Funds rate increase with at least another to come, and now the first estimate of GDP showing Q2 decline.  Treasuries are rallying, consistent with a slowing or declining economy.  My best estimate is that 1) growth stocks as a group have returned to favor for the summer months, and in an environment that favors growth stocks, valuations matter little, so equities are probably going to be fine for a short while ahead, and 2) that environment may be somewhat short-lived.

 Remember what President Bill Clinton once acknowledged:

"A recession is two quarters in a row of negative growth."

-- President Clinton, Dec. 19, 2000

Grand Canyon 2nd Most Accessible National Park

Above, Grand Canyon National Park ranked 2nd in accessibility. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who are wheelchair-bound, a study looking into what national parks are the most accessible has been made.

The study found that Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona ranked as the second most accessible national park.

According to 12News:

ARIZONA, USA — A new research study ranked the Grand Canyon National Park as the second most accessible national park in the country.

The study from Aging in Place gathered data on the total number of trails and the number of wheelchair-accessible trails. 

Out of 133 trails at the Grand Canyon, 14 trails are wheelchair-friendly. The park also ranked high on the list thanks to 95.7% of its restaurants being wheelchair-accessible.

The Badlands in South Dakota and Yellowstone ranked first and third, respectively.

To read more, go here. 

Where To Go In Yellowstone National Park

Above, Yellowstone is open, but it takes more planning to get in. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When nature decides to do something, man is powerless to stop it.

Such is the case with the floods in Yellowstone National Park. It damaged or destroyed roads within the park, primarily the northern ones.

Much of the park has reopened and people are wondering where they can go in the park. West Entrance from West Yellowstone, Montana and South Entrance from Grand Teton National Park and Jackson, Wyoming are open for example.

Travel + Leisure provides a rundown on where people can and can't go to.

They begin with:

It was set to be a banner year for Yellowstone National Park. In 2021, the park welcomed a record 4.9 million visitors, and in March 2022, the country's oldest national park celebrated its 150th birthday. But in mid-June, right as the summer season started to ramp up, record rainfall led to mudslides, rockslides, and flooding, causing damage to roads, water systems, trails, and power lines.

As of Thursday, July 28, the north and northeast entrances remain closed to vehicles due to flood damage. That means visitors looking to access the park by car from Gardiner, Montana, (north entrance) or Cooke City and Silver Gate, Montana, (northeast entrance) are out of luck. That said, the entrances are open to foot traffic.

Although two of the park entrances remain closed, 93% of the park's roads are open, and both the north and south loops are accessible via the west, south, and east entrances.

America's oldest national park remains as vibrant and beautiful as ever — it just takes a little extra planning to ensure your trip isn't impacted by the closures. Here's what you need to know before you go.

To read more, go here.

Good Beer Blimp Gondola At Albuquerque Sunport

Above, the gondola of one Good Beer Blimp. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

While waiting for Jessica's plane to arrive at the Albuquerque Sunport, I was wandering around the terminal. As I was coming down an escalator, I spotted an interesting display. It was the gondola to an experimental advertising blimp, the Good Beer Blimp. 

I am guessing it was experimental as the motor ran on liquid propane. 

Above, the gondola was made from a Cessna 337 Skymaster. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

According to the USML Digital Library:

The "Good Beer Blimp Busch" is the latest high-flying sales promotion vehicle for Anheuser-Busch Inc., a company spokesman said Thursday.

Above, an inside view from the front. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Apparently, there were two Good Beer Blimps. One was the Anheuser-Busch Good Beer Blimp Busch and the other was the Good Beer Blimp Budweiser. 

I couldn't tell from the gondola or the display's card which Good Year Blimp this one was.

Above, the display card. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The blimp only lasted about two years as it had stability and other issues and it consumed its propane fuel at a fast rate. 

For more details, go to Hot Airships.com

Back From Albuquerque

Above, at Sadie's in Albuquerque this morning.

We're back in Jamestown.

I picked up my former roommate Jessica from the airport last night and we spent the night at the Route 66 RV Resort outside of Albuquerque.

It looked like it would rain, but it never did.

We headed to Jamestown following a brunch at Sadie's in Albuquerque. If one wants some excellent Mexican food, New Mexico style, Sadie's is the place to go.

Along the way, we made one stop in Laguna, New Mexico as I was getting drowsy. It was likely a food coma from the big meal we had before heading on the road. I got myself some coffee at the Laguna Burger restaurant there. 

After reaching Jamestown, we were treated to thundershowers. 

A Storm Is Coming

Above, earlier today before the storm clouds started moving in. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Thunderstorm clouds are moving into the area west of Albuquerque where I'm at the Route 66 RV Resort is located.

It is presently around 88° outside. Since we should be getting possible heavy rain, I put away my camp chair and closed up the awning (it is getting windy out). 

I am relaxing with the roof air conditioner on (it needed a workout anyway, I last ran it a few days ago with the generator). 

Jessica is now boarding her flight to Albuquerque. She gave me a call a little while ago.

Route 66 RV Resort

Above, The Beast at the Route 66 RV Resort. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Jessica, my former Tarzana roommate, is flying into the Albuquerque Sunport late tonight from Des Moines, Iowa for a two-week visit.

Since her plane is arriving late, it is better to just stay the night in Albuquerque and head back to Jamestown in the morning. I am currently at the Route 66 RV Resort just outside of town. This will be the first time in months that The Beast is being used for camping. 

Above, relaxing before going to the pool area.

I got in around 11:00 this morning. I did make one stop along the way. I made a breakfast stop at the Sky City Hotel and Casino. For those who are curious, I had huevos rancheros. 

Above, the Route 66 RV Resort pool. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

After checking into the RV park and relaxing for a while, I decided to soak for a while in the hot tub. The pool and hot tub had been closed for the past two years due to the pandemic and both are now open. It was an enjoyable soak. I had the pool area all to myself except for the last few minutes I was there.

Above, another section of the pool and the hot tub. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I will probably get a bite to eat inside the Route 66 Casino. The hotel's shuttles are in operation again. So I can catch one from the RV park to the hotel and casino.

We may get thundershowers tonight. It wouldn't be the first time I've experienced a thunderstorm while at the Route 66 RV Resort. I find them entertaining.

Woman Arrested After Shooting At Dallas Love Field

Above, inside one of Dallas Love Field's terminals last year. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Crazies firing guns in public places apparently aren't confined to 20-something males.

A woman was taken into custody after being shot by police after she fired a gun in a Dallas Love Field terminal yesterday. Fortunately, nobody else in the terminal was injured.

She was identified as Portia Odufuwa, 37. She has a lengthy criminal record, including bank robbery.

According to the Gateway Pundit:

 A shooting was reported at Dallas Love Field Airport Monday morning.

According to Dallas police, a 37-year-old woman was shot after firing several rounds inside Dallas Love Field Airport.

NBCDFW reported that the woman was dropped off at the airport and immediately walked into a bathroom where she changed her clothing.

The woman walked out of the bathroom wearing a hoodie and began shooting at the ceiling before police shot her in her ‘lower extremities.’

The woman was transported from the airport and taken to Parkland Memorial Hospital where her condition is unknown.

I was last at Dallas Love Field a year and a half ago when I took a trip to Dallas and Fort Worth to see the John Wayne: An American Experience, Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza and Southfork Ranch.

To read more, go here and here.

How To Become A Campground Host

Above, the entrance to Manzanita Lake Campground. The camp host was located
at the right and behind the pay station and bulletin board. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

During my travels, I have met a few campground hosts.

Two immediately come to mind. One at Manzanita Lake Campground at Lassen Volcanic National Park and one at Gallo Campground at Chaco Culture National Historical Park.

I have never thought about becoming a campground host, but there are those reading this might like to do it.

Do It Yourself RV posted an article on how to become a campground host.

They begin it with:

Becoming a campground host is rewarding, and positions aren’t difficult to obtain, but you will want to consider a few things before applying.

How To Find Campground Host Jobs

Camp hosting is a great way to work and enjoy a particular area of the country for a season. Becoming a campground host is fun and rewarding, and positions aren’t difficult to find or obtain, but you will want to take a few things into consideration before you dive in.  

What is a campground host?

A campground host is an individual or a couple that provides services to a private, state park, or national park campground. Hosts must be at least 18 years of age and able to supply their owner camper. Hosts are often retired people who like to travel and spend their summers in cooler climates. They also generally like the outdoors and are eager to help others.

Campground hosts provide that personal touch that make campers feel welcome. If you like people, and are generally friendly and helpful, this might be just the position you are looking for.

What does a campground host do?

The actual duties will vary by campground but mostly consist of meeting and greeting visitors, camper registration, firewood sales, site maintenance, cleaning of facilities and sites and more. You might even assist at the entrance station at a park, maintain a message or bulletin boards, or participate in interpretive programs.

Campground hosts might also answer questions about local attractions, activities and trails, or local services such as gas stations, stores, or medical facilities. They might even refer visitors to forestry officials or other park administrators.

To read more, go here.

Explain This

 

Stormy Week Starting Today

One of my phone's apps said we were supposed to get a big thunderstorm overnight last night with "penny-sized" hail. Well, it didn't happen (at least not yet).

But the week's heavy rains are expected to start this afternoon. At least that's according to the National Weather Service. That will be the case throughout the Four Corners region. Maybe that's too much of good thing? 

Their forecast or today and tomorrow:

Overnight

Isolated showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. South wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Monday

Showers and thunderstorms likely after noon. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. South wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Monday Night

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before midnight. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming light after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Classic Rock Music Monday

The stuff that now passes as "music", particularly rock 'n roll, leaves me cold. So, to start off the week, here's a video of a classic rock artist. 

To start the week, the classic "Born To Be Wild" by Steppenwolf is presented. Here, the song is featured in the classic Easy Rider (1969) starring Peter Fonda, Jack Nicholson and Dennis Hopper. 

Also, is a video of Steppenwolf performing it. I saw them in concert in 1971 at the Forum in Inglewood, California.

Only 1,500 Foreign Tourists Visit Japan

Above, Godzilla in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Japan's method of reopening to foreign tourists turned out to be a dud. Only 1,500 foreign tourists showed up in the month since reopening.

The time-consuming process of getting a visa and joining an organized group tour along with having negative PCR test results are cited as the reasons.

According to NHK World:

Japan's Immigration Services Agency says only about 1,500 foreign tourists entered Japan in the month since the country re-opened to sightseers on June 10.

Japan was effectively closed to foreign tourism for over two years due to the pandemic. Last month, visitors from 98 countries and territories were allowed back in.

The agency says during the month up to July 10, around 484,000 people entered the country in total. The figure translates to 12,000 per day, or about 60 percent of the upper limit of 20,000 that had been set by the government.

Sixty percent of them were Japanese citizens, and most of the foreign nationals who entered the country were business travelers or students. Only about 1,500 of the foreign entrants came for sightseeing.

To read more, go here. 

National Park Reservations: More Lead Time Wanted

Above, a morning view of Yosemite Valley. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The national park reservation system is filled with problems. To many, it is an unfair system in dire need for reform.

For international tourists and tourist companies, it is a problem as more lead time is needed. Operators are also calling for reform.

According to an article in RV Travel:

Nearly 400 travel industry organizations—including domestic and international organizations—have sent a letter to U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and National Park Service Director Chuck Sams calling for reforms to the visitor reservation systems in the national parks.

Specifically, reservation systems with short booking windows and inconsistent procedures are not workable for international travelers and international tour operators, many of whom plan travel a full year in advance. The letter proposes that reservations be allowed 10 to 12 months in advance, and that reservation systems are consistent across parks that implement them.

While reservation systems are not appropriate at all national park sites, any action by the Interior Department to expand new reservation systems for parks should be preceded by engagement and discussion with national park constituencies, including gateway communities, tour operators, and those that provide transportation to and through parks.

To read more, go here. 

Remembering Las Vegas Hacienda Hotel

Above, the Las Vegas Hacienda Hotel around the early 1960s.

Back during Spring Break in 1973, two friends and I spent several days in Las Vegas, Nevada. We stayed at the Westward Ho Motel and Casino (closed in 2005) on the Las Vegas Strip. It was near the now-gone Stardust Hotel and Circus Circus.

Above, the Westward Ho Motel circa 1976. Photo from Vintage Las Vegas.

We spent the week hanging out at the hotel's pool and roamed around town and took an excursion to Hoover Dam. On the way back from the dam, we rode some ATVs (the now-outlawed three-wheeled ones). 

As far as gambling was concerned, as we were slightly under age (19 years), we limited our gambling to the Hacienda Hotel on the Strip. 

About the Hacienda Hotel according to Wikipedia:

The Hacienda was a hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada, that operated from 1956 to 1996. It was opened by Warren Bayley, who owned other Hacienda properties in California as well. Bayley opened the hotel portion in June 1956, although the opening of the casino was delayed as the Nevada Gaming Control Board objected to his choice of casino manager, Jake Kozloff. The casino portion eventually opened on October 17, 1956. The $6 million property had 266 rooms and the largest pool on the Las Vegas Strip. Like its sister properties in California, the resort included a neon sign that depicted a cowboy riding a palomino horse.

The Hacienda was built at the south end of the Strip, making it the first resort to be seen by tourists driving up from California. The Hacienda was located by itself at the time, a distance away from other resorts. Because of its location, most guests did not bother to visit the other resorts. The Hacienda was the first Las Vegas resort to target a family clientele, and until 1962, it operated a plane service to fly in guests from out of state.

Above, the Hacienda Hotel in the  mid to late 1960s.

The Hacienda Hotel property is now occupied by Mandalay Bay.

The Hacienda casino had some old mechanical slot machines and were pretty generous in payouts, at least to me. They were nowhere near like the more modern slot machines in use at the time and the electronic ones of today. I did pretty well with the Hacienda's slots. I did even better at their roulette tables. Those were the days when we gambled with Eisenhower dollar coins. I made enough money that all I ended up paying (for the week) was my share of the room expense and food. I was able to bring cash back home with me.

Las Vegas was actually fun back then and not at all crowded, unlike today. Since slot machines are all electronic today with push-buttons instead of pull handles, I don't bother with them. They don't pay out like the olden days. If I do any sort of gambling these days, it will be at the roulette wheels.

Stormy Week Ahead

Above, ranchland up near McGaffey. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It looks like monsoon season will intensify this coming week.

The National Weather Service forecasts a stormy week of rain and thunderstorms. This will be interesting as I have to pick up my former roommate Jessica from the Albuquerque Sunport this coming week. 

At least it will be cooler than it has been during the past few days.

The forecast:

This Afternoon

Scattered showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 89. Southwest wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tonight

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 9pm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph decreasing to 5 to 10 mph after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Sunday

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after noon. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 84. South wind 5 to 15 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Sunday Night

Showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Low around 59. West wind 10 to 15 mph becoming south 5 to 10 mph after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Monday

Showers and thunderstorms after noon. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. High near 80. Light and variable wind becoming west 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Monday Night

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before midnight. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Tuesday

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after noon. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Tuesday Night

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Wednesday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Partly sunny, with a high near 80. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Wednesday Night

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Thursday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 80. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Thursday Night

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Friday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 81. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

UPDATE: 

Within 15-20 minutes of posting this, a thunderstorm came rolling in. I got the Jeep into the garage just in time.

National Day of the Cowboy Today

Above, from this year's Wild Thing Championship Bull Riding. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Today is National Day of the Cowboy.

What is the National Day of the Cowboy? Here is what the National Day of the Cowboy(.com) says:

Saturday, July 23rd, 2022, marks the 18th Annual National Day of the Cowboy. After the past two years of near non-existence, it is experiencing an exciting and well deserved revival. Not only are many long time celebrations on the calendar once again this year, such as at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, but there are plenty of new events as well. This activity confirms for us that it is extremely significant to have gotten the National Day of the Cowboy bill passed into law in 15 states. In spite of those two years where the pandemic sent everything into a sleep state, recognition of the Cowboy Day has come back with a high level of excitement all over the country. Tomorrow, the 4th Saturday in July, there will be celebrations in California, Texas, Arizona, Utah, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Montana, North Dakota, Kansas, New York, Georgia, Virginia and many other states as well. The events take place at halls of fame, museums, heritage centers, ranches, and on main streets across the country. We sincerely hope that if you can’t find a celebration near you, you will consider starting one of your own.

The idea behind the National Day of the Cowboy work is to permanently protect our cowboy culture and pioneer heritage for all generations to come. Celebrations encourage us to continue our work and are what give meaning to the passage of our bill.

Hats off to the cowboy!

To read more, go here.

Best Cat Travel Aid

Above, Sierra in the motorhome at Yosemite National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

My cat Sierra is a seasoned RV traveler. She has traveled with me in the motorhome since she was a few months old. She's been to more states than many people have. 

Still, the first half hour is the only time she wails. Then she settles in and sleeps most of the time. 

Some cats need travel aids and Fox31 Denver has an article on making kitty's trip experience a less stressful one. 

They begin with:

Which cat travel aid is best?

Next to traveling with kids, there are few things more exhausting than going on a trip with your cat. There are a few tools that can make the journey (somewhat) tolerable for your cat and slightly less stressful for you. Consider yourself lucky if your cat doesn’t wail for the first hour and then spends the next two hours trying to break free. Its comfort and safety are vital, and the Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier Bag is an excellent choice for that.

To read the full article, go here. 

RV Boo-Boos

Above, at the KOA in West Yellowstone, Montana. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Sooner or later, mistakes are made by seasoned or new RV users. I once drove off with the awning fully deployed. Luckily, neighboring campers flagged me down one campsite down from ours, so nothing got damaged. That was the first time using the awning.

Since then, I always do a walk-around check on everything before driving off.

There are other boo-boos people do and RV Travel has an article on them.

They begin with:

“Protect us,” said the old prayer, “from things that go bump in the night.” For RVers, things that can “go bump” can do so in broad daylight—and often do. Too often, RVers pull away in their rig and hear unwelcome noises. The TV antenna left up? Or a major insurance claim causer: Left the RV steps out.

I've seen many a television antenna fully deployed on passing RVs going the opposite direction. So it is quite a common error.

To read the full article, go here.

RV Travel Tips and Tricks

Above, The Beast at Graceland RV Park & Campground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Traveling by RV should be fun, but on occasion things happen to mar the experience. They can happen to anyone, whether one is an experienced RVer or a newbie.

TETRACYCLINED7K has posted 11 simple RV travel tips and tricks to help minimize or prevent problems while on the road.

They begin with:

RV camps are very fun and rewarding, but they also come with many challenges. Forgetting one important component can lead to dangerous or costly situations. If you don’t have a designated place to keep your belongings safe, you can easily lose important items while you’re on the go. Fortunately, there are many simple things you can do to make sure you’re ready for the ultimate RV adventure.

 To read more, go here.