Top 4 Reasons To Invest In Silver Coins

Above, an 1889 Morgan silver dollar. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Inflation (Bidenflation) shows no signs of abating.

Yesterday, I went to the local O'Reilly Auto Parts store to purchase a can of Sea Foam Motor Treatment. Generally, the cost for a can was about $5-6.00. I usually buy two. Well, to my surprise, it was over $12.00 a can.

I mentioned this to the clerk and he said that everything has shot up in price. Our currency is continuing to lose its purchasing power.

That is one big reason why I and so many others are investing in silver coins. There are some reasons why and Big News Network lays out the top four of them.

They start with:

Silver has always been valuable and sought-after precious metal; people have invested in it for centuries. Investing in silver coins has been a popular investment form over the years. Silver coins are an attractive option for investors to diversify their portfolios and protect their wealth.

Historically, silver has been used for currency, jewelry, and other decorative items. They are often minted with intricate designs, and some even commemorate significant historical events or people. You should choose to invest in silver coins due to their liquidity and because it's easy to buy and sell them.

The following are the top 4 reasons to invest in silver coins.

To read more, go here.

Engage!

Someone in the city's planning department must've been a Trekker.

The Coronation and "Gushy Americans"

Above, 2023 silver Britannia coins. No endorsement of King Charles III is implied. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It boggles the mind to see some Americans get all excited and gushy over the upcoming coronation of King Charles III. 

Sure, it is an historical event for the United Kingdom. I can understand people wanting to see the pomp and ceremony take place, only as casual spectators on "this side of the pond." But to get all excited and, in some cases, "gushy" over it, is ridiculous to me. One friend set up British flags in his yard to celebrate the coronation. Huh?

The matter over "the Colonies" and the English monarchy was settled nearly 250 years ago in 1776. So what's the big deal (as far as Americans are concerned)? 

Frankly, I find the King to be someone of questionable character, considering he cheated on his wife, Princess Diana. The Royal Family has been dysfunctional for years with the current saga of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle making practically daily headlines. We also have Prince Andrew's involvement with Jeffrey Epstein. The only Royal who seems to be a decent sort is heir-apparent Prince William. 

A Canadian friend was perplexed over why I would buy silver Britannia coins featuring the image of King Charles III as he also finds him to be unsavory, referring to him a "globalist ass" as well as an adulterer (some folks do have standards). I couldn't care less about the King, but bought the coins as an investment since they are the first coins with his image and the first year of his reign. This would likely affect their future value. (I also bought some featuring the late Queen Elizabeth II.) Besides, the price was right. Buying them is not an endorsement of the King.

This wasn't the first time Americans gushed over the Royals in my lifetime. I remember many Americans gushing over the wedding of Charles and Diana, as if it were the second coming of Christ. My supervisor at the time asked me to videotape the wedding, which I did. Since the wedding took place while we were asleep, all I had to do was set the timer and pop in a blank tape. I didn't have to watch it.

I guess the coronation will please some dullards here. Considering what a moron we have in the White House, this may be somewhat understandable. 

To each their own.

Yard Work

Above, Barking Spider Acre after finishing mowing. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

With today's temperatures in the 70s (it is forecast to hit 81° tomorrow), I decided to break out the mower and mow Barking Spider Acre.

The shrubs and grass were starting to get taller from all of the snow and rain we received during the monsoon season and winter snows. I was going to wait another week or two, but I decided to get on it today.

It was a nice day to ride the mower. After I was done, I chatted with my neighbor Mike for awhile. 

After that, I settled on the deck with some Alien Amber Ale. All in all, a good day.

UPDATE (4:30/23):

The temperature forecast has been revised down to 78°.

The Truth About Gold And Silver Premia

Gold and silver: what you're really paying.

CPM Group's Jeffrey Christian discusses some of the premia costs physical gold and silver investors pay over the spot price. He discusses what spot price is, and how dealers can use it as a tool to mislead investors, and whether gold and silver retail products are "good deals" compared to other commodities. 

Also Discussed: The bid ask spread of official coins vs Medallions and Rounds 

New Mexico’s 4/20 Pot Sales Grew Like A Weed

It is funny. 

Last year, the state of New Mexico legalized the recreational use of marijuana and then put out public service announcements (PSA) warning people that people stoned on pot should not get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. Well, they brought this upon themselves so they shouldn't complain.

Prior to the legalization, marijuana was available at dispensaries for medical use only.

Well, at least the dispensaries (and, I presume, the state with associated taxes) are making a profit on pot sales.

From the Piñon Post:

On April 20, marijuana smokers, dispensaries, and advocates celebrated the “420” holiday that praises the consumption of pot. In New Mexico, the formerly contraband drug was legalized beginning on April 1, 2022.

In 2022, New Mexico pot sales on the unofficial stoner holiday hit $1.12 million, according to Albuquerque Business First. However, in 2023, those numbers grew exponentially.

New Mexico sales of marijuana on April 20, 2023, rose 86 percent from last year to hit $2.82 million.

“This year’s 4/20 average transaction total was $50.28, up from the March average of $44.60. Hobbs recorded the highest average transaction size at $94.96,” reported the outlet.

To read more, go here. 

David C. Lorenzen, R.I.P.

Above, here I am with David and Robin Lorenzen at a party in Rancho Palos
 Verdes on September 5, 1975. The photo was taken by Assemblyman Paul Bannai.

It had been at least a couple of months since I last heard from David Lorenzen on Facebook. I was wondering what was going on.

I had known Dave for 50 years while I was active in the Young Republicans of El Camino College and the Los Angeles County Young Republicans. He assisted in getting the El Camino College Young Republicans chartered in 1973.

Naturally, we would post about politics and we would exchange thoughts on that and other topics.

This morning, I saw his name pop up on a post I made a year ago and decided to go to his Facebook page to see if there was any clues. There, was a funeral notice posted by his son Daniel. 

This afternoon, I did some more checking and found an obituary.

In the Ventura County Star, an obituary was posted and it read, in part:

May 19, 1952 – April 11, 2023 Dave left this part of his journey on April 11, 2023. Dave was born on May 19, 1952 in Glendale, California. He leaves his loving wife of 48 years, Robin, and 5 children, Daniel (Julianna), Cory (Nicki), Casey (Maryanne), Rick and Amber. And much loved grandchildren, Seth, Laura, Ryan, Garrett, Maggie, Grant, Zoey, Milo and Jax.

I am sorry to learn of Dave's passing. I had no idea if he was ill or not. My condolences to his wife Robin and the Lorenzen family. 

Silver Closes Week At $25.15/toz

Above, silver Kennedy half dollars and Morgan dollars. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The markets are now closed for the weekend, including the silver spot market.

Silver closed above $25.00/toz to end the week of trading.

Where it goes next week remains to be seen.

From Kitco News:

Japanese Location Production Operation Launched by Toho

Above, Toho Studios in Setagaya. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

International movie productions have "shied away" from shooting in Japan as there's no incentives for location filming.

All that is about to change as Toho Co., Ltd. is launching a production services division.

Variety reported:

Toho, Japan’s most powerful movie studio, is launching a production services offshoot intended to assist and grow foreign film and TV shoots in the country.

Toho Tombo Pictures is a joint venture with Japan-based producer Georgina Pope, who has worked with the top entertainment companies around the globe for more than 30 years.

The new company will be headed by Shimada Mitsuru, who currently serves as president of Toho Studios, as representative director of Toho Tombo Pictures. Pope, Ueda Koji and Toho Studios executive Sudo Tetsushi will serve as directors. Ueda is GM of international business of Toho and VP of U.S. subsidiary, Toho International, Inc.

Toho says that “interest in filming in Japan has skyrocketed over the past decade,” and that it sees an opportunity “to create a suite of services that incorporates the expertise and expansive capabilities of Japan’s premier film studio, Toho Studios.”

To read more, go here. 

Two Challenge Coins

Above, the obverse of the Super Celebration coin. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The blog post on the Niue 85th Anniversary of Superman reminded me of the challenge coin commemorating the 100 years of Jerome Siegel, Jerome Shuster and George Reeves from 2014 that was celebrated in the "Super Celebration" in Los Angeles, Studio City and Tarzana that included a luncheon and plaque dedication.

The coin made for the Super Celebration is actually an better-looking coin compared to the "faceless" ones being issued by the New Zealand Mint for the island nation of Niue.

For the fun of it, I checked Google and didn't find any of these coins for sale. Attendees of the event were given these coins and it appears they're hanging on to them.

As I mentioned in an earlier blog post, I have a few challenge coins in my collection. The most recent one was from the clampout at Tombstone, Arizona issued by the Lost Dutchaman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus.

Another one that I have was from the Gen. George Patton Museum in Chiraco Summit, California. It honors World War II U.S. General George S. Patton.

Here is the obverse:

Here is the reverse:

Neal Adams Passing One Year Anniversary

Above, Neal Adams and fans at the 2012 Comikaze Expo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It is hard to believe that a year has already flown by since the passing of legendary comic book artist Neal Adams in New York at age 80.

He died in his sleep from complications of sepsis. This was also the cause of death of my mom thirteen years ago. 

Above, Neal Adams and yours truly at the 2012 Comikaze Expo,

Adams was known for his definitive artwork on Batman and for his work on Superman, Deadman, Green Lantern and Green Arrow.

I had the honor of meeting him at Comikaze Expo in Los Angeles in 2012. 

The man may be gone, but his artwork still lives on.

Superman 85th Anniversary Coins

Jeepers!

This year marks 85 years since Superman first appeared in the national (and international) culture in Action Comics no. 1. 

To commemorate the Man of Steel's 85th Anniversary, the New Zealand Mint is putting out anniversary silver coins for the island nation of Niue.

From the Superman Homepage:

The New Zealand Mint is now taking orders for the Superman 85th Anniversary 1oz Silver Coin.

Up, up, and away! Made from 1oz of pure silver, this stunning coin celebrates 85 years of the one and only, SUPERMAN.

Fully engraved, it shows a close-up look of the Man of Steel along with a prominent display of his emblem. Surrounding the coin are the words “Celebrating 85 years of Superman” to further commemorate the special anniversary. Some relief and a mirror finish have been added to give him a striking and dynamic appearance.

Priced at US$109, order your Superman 85th Anniversary 1oz Silver Coin today! The Superman 85th Anniversary Silver Coin is also available in a 3oz silver version (US$299) and as a special 1/4oz Gold Coin (US$800).

To read more and for ordering links, go here. 

Springerville and Jerry Springer

Above, Jerry Springer.

Until April 12, I hadn't thought of Jerry Springer in years, not that I really ever did.

I was heading to Eagar, Arizona on April 12, which John Wayne's former ranch, the 26 Bar Ranch, is located. I was en route to Tombstone. Eagar is right next to Springerville. I was because of that town's name that Jerry Springer came to mind. I don't believe I ever watched his show, but my ex-roommate may have.

Then, word came yesterday that Springer died of pancreatic cancer at age 79. 

It is weird how things like this work out.

Coffee Ad Pays Tribute To Haruo Nakajima

Above, Haruo Nakajima at G-FEST in 2008. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This is a Japanese advertisement for Boss Coffee, a major coffee brand (part of Suntory) in Japan. This ad is three years old, but it is only now that I've seen it (thanks to Stan Hyde).  

Although a coffee ad, it pays tribute to Haruo Nakajima and what he endured while playing the King of the Monsters.

Here's the ad:

U.S. Mint Issuing Lincoln Silver Presidential Medal May 1

 

Above, the Lincoln Silver Presidential Medal. Image by the U.S. Mint.

President Abraham Lincoln will be honored with a presidential silver medal issued by the U.S. Mint.

It will be issued on May 1. 

According to the Numismatic News:

The medal contains one troy ounce of 99.9 percent fine silver. It measures 1.598 inches in diameter.

To be honest, I am not impressed with the image of Lincoln on the coin. It just doesn't look right to me. The Lincoln penny has a far better image of the 16th president.

With the current spot price of silver at around $25.11/toz, The medal's price tag of $75.00 is a bit too pricey.

Japan Dropping COVID Border Measures Saturday

Above, a yakatabune (屋形船) party boat on the Sumida River in Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Japan has moved up the dropping of COVID border measures from May 8 to this coming Saturday.

According to the Japan Times:

Starting on Saturday, passengers arriving in Japan will no longer be required to submit proof of vaccination or negative test results, according to media reports, as the country braces for an influx of travelers during the Golden Week holidays.

Currently, all incoming passengers — including Japanese nationals and foreign residents — are required to present proof that they have received at least three COVID-19 vaccine shots or have tested negative for the virus within 72 hours before departure.

The government had previously said it planned to end the border measures on May 8, when the category for COVID-19 under the Infectious Disease Law will be downgraded from one similar to Class 2 to Class 5, which is on par with seasonal influenza.

To read more, go here. 

Mississippi Now Makes Gold & Silver Tax-free

Mississippi has joined the ranks of states exempting gold and silver from state sales taxes.

This is something that New Mexico should be doing, but partisanship by the Democrat majorities in the legislature are more fixated on abortion and other phony issues rather than doing something to benefit citizens. 

From WTOK-TV:

 MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) - Governor Tate Reeves signed SB2862 into place last week.

This law will make gold and silver coins and bullion tax-free. Mississippi is the 43rd state to intact a law of this nature. News 11 spoke with one local business owner who says our area has several gold and silver coin collectors, as well as bullion buyers, that will benefit from this law. He also states buying gold or silver can help keep a hedge against inflation. Where the dollar may decrease in value, gold and silver can go up.

To read more, go here. 

US States Look To Gold and Silver As Legal Tender

Above, Franklin silver half dollars. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Note: I accidentally deleted the original post. Blogger was acting a bit erratic this morning. So, the best I can recreate it, here is the topic again. 

More states are looking into recognizing gold and silver as legal tender as the fiat currency (i.e., the dollar) is on shaky ground, rampant inflation, bank collapses and other economy woes are taking place.

On The Spot News posted:

As concerns about inflation and the stability of the US dollar continue to grow, a growing number of states are taking steps to recognize gold and silver as legal tender. 23 states have introduced legislation that would allow citizens to use precious metals to pay for goods and services, according to investment news website Invezz, here.

“Proponents of the legislation argue that gold and silver are more stable forms of currency, as their value is not subject to the same fluctuations as fiat currency,” writes Shivam Kaushik in the Invezz article. 

This sentiment is echoed by many in the precious metals industry, who see the current economic climate as a sign that gold and silver could become increasingly important as alternative currencies.

Several states introduce legislation, significant for the US dollar

The states that have introduced the legislation include Arizona, Wyoming, and Texas, all of which have taken slightly different approaches to the issue. In Arizona, for example, the state Senate has passed a bill that would recognize gold and silver coins minted by the US government as legal tender, and would remove state capital gains taxes on the exchange of precious metals. In Wyoming, a similar bill has been introduced, which would also allow for the creation of a depository to hold precious metals for use in transactions. Texas has introduced legislation that would recognize gold and silver coins as legal tender and create a depository to allow citizens to store their precious metals in a secure facility.

The governor and the Democrat-controlled New Mexico legislature have no interest in following suit even though the state is sandwiched between Arizona and Texas. They are more interested in the abortion issue rather than doing anything to benefit citizens.

To read more, go here. 

RV Shipments Decline Sharply In March

Above, RVs under transport at the Jamestown Flying J. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The RV boom that took place during the pandemic is apparently over.

Fewer RVs, motorized and towables, were shipped to dealers in March than in March 2022. At least that's the findings of the RV Industry Association (RVIA) and reported by Chuck Woodbury at RV Travel.

He begins with:

RV manufacturers shipped fewer RVs to dealers in March 2023, dropping by more than 50 percent compared to last March.

Results for the RV Industry Association’s (RVIA) March 2023 survey of manufacturers determined that total RV shipments ended the month with 31,869 units, a decrease of 50.8% from the 64,778 units shipped in March 2022. To date this year, RV shipments are down 54.3% with 78,600 units.

He then breaks down the numbers by class of RVs.

To read more, go here. 

Flood Threat Closing Parts of Yosemite

Above, Tenaya Creek in Yosemite Valley. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

They're not talking about drought in California now. This winter saw record snowfall in the Sierra Nevadas. Which is good for water supplies.

On the downside, the melting snow may cause flooding. Accordingly, Yosemite National Park will be seeing some closures due to the possibility of floods.

From Reuters:

April 25 (Reuters) - Most of the vast, scenic valley at the heart of Yosemite National Park in California will close to visitors this weekend in a rare shutdown prompted by forecasts of floods from rapid snowmelt.

The closure will start at 10 p.m. on Friday and last at least until Wednesday, May 3, possibly longer, depending on how swiftly melting mountain snow runs off into the Merced River through Yosemite Valley, the National Park Service said on Tuesday. 

The agency said reservations for lodging and campgrounds would be automatically canceled and refunded.

Shutdown of an area renowned for such landmarks as the towering granite formations of El Capitan and Half Dome comes as Central California braces for a looming heat wave, with highs in the 90s Fahrenheit and overnight lows well above freezing.

To read more, go here. 

Asya In The UAE

This morning, Asya sent me a big batch of photos from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

She is currently working as a massage or yoga therapist (of some sort) at the Emirates Palace Hotel, a 5-star resort hotel Abu Dhabi, which is the capital of the United Arab Emirates

Here's a couple of photos she sent in the desert:

I presume the mask on the camel is to keep it from spitting. I heard they do that, especially if they had been abused in the past.

Above, at the Emirates Palace Hotel.

Trump First Tucker Carlson Guest On Telegram Live

A little while ago, I received a message with the following.

It was originally posted on Instagram by DeSantis 2024:

 

The Storm Has Arrived

Above, storm clouds over the area. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It was forecast that we have a 30% chance of rain.

Well, it has arrived. It has started sprinkling along with gusty winds. 

According to the National Weather Service, the forecast for Jamestown, New Mexico is as follows:

This Afternoon

Isolated showers and thunderstorms, then scattered thunderstorms after 3pm. Areas of blowing dust after 3pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 61. Windy, with a west wind 25 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 45 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. Blustery, with a northwest wind 20 to 25 mph decreasing to 10 to 15 mph in the evening. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 60. West wind 10 to 15 mph becoming north in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 34. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light and variable.

Thursday

Sunny, with a high near 69. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming northwest 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon.

 

The No. 1 State For Camping: Wyoming

Above, at Jackson Hole/Snake River KOA. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the years, I have camped in several states. According to RV Life Campground Reviews, I have camped in 15 states.

Ever wondered what state ranks as the number one state for camping?

Well, Travel + Leisure has the answer.

They begin with:

Though it feels as though spring has just begun, summer vacation is around the corner. For many, that means it's time to start plotting out the perfect camping trip. And, according to Adventures on the Rock, a website dedicated to helping travelers find adventure vehicles, this year, it's all about camping in Wyoming. 

The company recently shared its rankings for the best states to go camping in the U.S., analyzing 10 factors to score each state using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, National Park Service, the CDC, AAA Gas prices, the National Climatic Data Center, and more. Those factors included the number of national parks and landmarks relative to the state area, a state's available hiking trails, campsites relative to the state population, and the diversity of plants and animals. The company also considered a state's average yearly rainfall and current fuel costs. 

To read more, go here. 

Planning A Southwest Road Trip

Above, an early morning view of The Mittens and Merrick
 Butte at Monument Valley. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Summer is just around the corner and now is the time to start thinking and planning a vacation trip.

If one is stuck wondering about where to go and do, the East Bay Times as a suggestion: an epic road trip through the Southwest.

They begin it with:

When you’re from California, it’s easy to think that some of the world’s most beautiful and wild, rugged places are right here in our lovely state. But while the Golden State has plenty of incredible scenery to offer, both back in those Wild West days as well as now, the landscapes across America’s Southwest are some of the most spectacular to be found anywhere on the planet.

A road trip is a perfect way to see our favorite special spots in the Southwest — Nevada, Utah and Arizona — where you can see ghost towns, hoodoos, natural arches, sandstone spectacles, dark-sky stars and a really huge hole in the ground.

Before you begin, consider purchasing an annual national parks pass at the first park you enter. That $80 pass gets everyone in your car into every national park for a full year. You don’t have to be an American citizen to buy an annual pass, but if you are, and you’re age 62-plus, buy your lifetime pass for $80 and never again pay to enter a U.S. national park. (Considering that Zion National Park’s entry fee is $35 per car, getting the annual pass is something of a no-brainer.)

To read more, go here.

How To Find National Park Jobs

Above, clouds hugging Yosemite National Park mountains. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who love the great outdoors, specifically the national parks and would relish the chance to work at one, the following from RV Life just may be what the doctor ordered.

Summer is just around the corner and that's when national park jobs are available.

RV Life begins with:

National park jobs offer the perfect opportunity to explore our country’s stunning national parks while earning money. These jobs are easily accessible and offer competitive pay. Plus, the breathtaking landscapes you’ll encounter are a major bonus.

Check out some of these tips and more information on how to find national park jobs.

To read more, go here. 

Silver Down To $24.81/toz

The markets have been volatile lately. Gold and silver have been no exception. What goes up, must come down (and vice-versa).

Today is starting off with silver's spot price down round forty cents. It is at $24.81/toz. But it's early still and things may change.

Here's what Kitco News posted minutes ago:

 

Carlson's Show To Resume At Telegram

A friend saw this over at Instagram that was posted by Republican Post and sent it to me since I don't have an Instagram account.

Apparently, Tucker Carlson will be going to Telegram Channel (or whatever it's called).

Fox News Compared To Bud Light After Parting With Tucker Carlson

Above, Tucker Carlson on April 19.

Fox News, in terminating the contract it had with its highest-rated host Tucker Carlson, is now being compared to Bud Light.

Following the announcement of Carlson's departure from Fox News, rumors have been spreading including one that Carlson will be going to OAN (One America News Network) and another stating that Carlson as filed a one billion dollar lawsuit against Fox News.

We'll have to wait until the dust settles before things become clear. If this was a firing and the Fox News press release was just sugar-coating it, this is tantamount to killing the hen who laid golden eggs.

From Newsweek:

The abrupt exit of Fox News host Tucker Carlson from the conservative network has quickly spawned several comparisons to the Bud Light-Dylan Mulvaney controversy that has led to reduced sales and market shares for the beer giant.

Carlson and Fox News Media "agreed to part ways" on Monday morning in a move that has shaken up the entire cable news industry as well as the conservative movement that Carlson himself championed for nearly a decade as host.

Following the announcement, Fox News' share price instantly dropped nearly 5 percent to $31.85 per share before slightly bouncing back to $32.50 per share by early afternoon—still a decrease of almost 4 percent compared to last week, according to MarketWatch.

It is unclear if Carlson's departure is related to the settlement ($787.5 million) of a lawsuit between Dominion Voting Systems and Fox News last week or of the departure of Dan Bongino from Fox News.

Bob N wrote at Piñon Post:

The end is near.

Fox News let go of Dan Bongino and his weekend show a couple of weeks ago. Now Tucker Carlson is gone. Are they on a mission to clean out conservatives to better “compete” with CNN?

Next, I expect the MyPillow ads will be axed (sarc).

To read more, go here. 

This Morning In Gallup

Above, this morning at the El Rancho Hotel.

This morning was spent in Gallup.

First, I had an optometrist appointment. It had been four years since I was last examined. Everything came out fine, but I still need new glasses. One oddity, my distance vision actually improved. The optometrist says it is not unusual.  

After that was over, I headed to the El Rancho Hotel for some huevos rancheros. They make excellent ones and I figured I'd treat myself for a plate. 

When breakfast was over, I went to my mechanic's to set an appointment to bring the Jeep in. It will be going in next week. 

Then, once I got home, I saw that Tucker Carlson and Fox News "parted ways". Not good. Then, CNN fired Don Lemon. Very good. It would be interesting if Carlson took over Lemon's job.

It may rain this afternoon. The rain clouds are moving in right now. We have a 20% chance of rain.

Maine Considering Making Gold & Silver Legal Tender

You can add the state of Maine as another state seriously considering making gold and silver legal tender.

I've noticed that in news articles of states making (or considering) gold and silver legal tender, Republicans are in favor and Democrats are opposed. Wonder why?

Of course, as The Federalist blog wrote:

Fascist governments hate untraceable gold, silver and crypto coins.

 

1908 Hungary Gold 100 Korona

In 1918, at the end of world War I, the Austro-Hungarian Empire collapsed and vanished. The Empire's paper money became worthless. But the Empire's gold coins hold their value to this very day.

To read more, go here. 

Gold and Silver: Modest Price Gains

Above, 2023 Britannia coins. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We're in a new week and the spot markets for gold and silver are now open.

The greenback is showing some weakness as the week begins, which is making gold and silver rise a bit.

From Kitco News:

(Kitco News) - Gold and silver prices are a bit higher in early U.S. trading Monday. A weaker U.S. dollar index and a dip in U.S. Treasury yields are supportive for the metals market bulls today. However, the metals market bulls are pensive amid general marketplace sentiment that Federal Reserve monetary policy is likely to remain tight in the coming months, despite notions the U.S. and/or global economy could slip into recession. June gold was last up $4.20 at $1,994.90 and May silver was up $0.067 at $25.13. 

To read more, go here. 

The Scorned 1965 Washington Quarter

Above, a 1944 Washington quarter. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 1965, the U.S. Mint stopped minting dimes and quarters out of silver. My dad and I were collecting coins at the time and we both groused about the copper clad coins that were minted. As far as we were concerned, those 1965 quarters and dimes were nothing but pot metal.

We weren't alone in that sentiment. 

To this day, I have not focused on quarter or dime collecting, silver or not. I focus on silver dollars and half dollars. But I do have a few dimes and quarters that are pre-1965. I have bought some Barber quarters as they are over 100 years old. They were minted from 1892 to 1916. The above 1944 Washington quarter may be worn, but at least it's silver.

Numismatic News has posted an article on the "scorned" 1965 Washington quarter.

The begin it with:

Some coins are made beautiful and others are made rare. The 1965 Washington quarter stands as the classic two-time loser. That may never change, but it just may be that with the 50 state quarter program and those that follow, we all should take a second look at the 1965 Washington quarter.

Something many viewed as absolutely terrible happened in 1965. The Washington quarter and the Roosevelt dime were struck without silver. The Kennedy half dollar had only 40 percent silver. It was no accident. The price of silver had simply risen too high for use in circulating coins. The Coinage Act of 1965 guaranteed that 1964 Washingtons were to be the last circulating quarters to contain silver.

When the first 1965 quarters emerged very late that year, they were greeted with something close to scorn. The scorn was over their lack of silver.

To read more, go here. 

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 off this week, we're going to do something a little different. It'll be the same song but will be by two different artists.

The song is "Younger Girl" penned by John Sebastian of the Lovin' Spoonful. For this week, there will be two versions: one by the Lovin' Spoonful and one by The Critters. I have the one by the Lovin' Spoonful on vinyl ("The Very Best of the Lovin' Spoonful" from 1970).

The Critters's cover received greater success as it reached 42 on Billboard's Hot 100 in 1966.

Which one do you prefer?

 

 

Summer Travel: Memphis Or Nashville?

Above, Memphis's Beale Street. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To start things off, I state for the record that I have never been to Nashville, Tennessee. I plan on visiting the city someday.

I have been to Memphis, Tennessee twice. I have enjoyed it each time I have been there. The most recent time was in 2016. I stayed at the Graceland RV Park across the street from Elvis Presley's Graceland mansion.

Travel Off Path has an article stating that travelers should choose Memphis over Nashville for summer travel this year. I cannot say if they are right or wrong, it is up to the reader to decide.

They begin with:

If you’ve been to Nashville lately, you’ve probably noticed how packed it is.

There’s a current trend of bachelorettes and their bridal parties flocking to Nashville for one last wild weekend before heading to the altar — and they’re not the only ones overcrowding Nashville.

Music lovers and travelers searching for that Southern charm aren’t going to find it in Nashville anymore.

The true soul of Tennessee is in Memphis – The Home of the Blues.

 To read more, go here.

Outside RV Storage A Bad Idea

Above, the RV in its garage. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When I bought my 2015 Winnebago Minnie Winnie 22R that year, I was living in the Los Angeles area where the climate is not harsh.

Since then, I have moved to New Mexico and now live in a semi-arid area at about 7,000 feet above sea level. The winters get very cold and snowy and the summers can cause damage to an RV due to the altitude's UV rays.

That is why I had a RV garage (called the GOCO Beast Barn) built. It protects my motorhome from the harsher aspects of the climate. Thankfully, I was able to do so as I have a two-acre ranchette.

With the above in mind, RV Travel has posted an article on why storing an RV outside can be a bad idea. 

The begin it with:

Every year hundreds of thousands of RV owners all across the country need to store their RVs. Whether it is due to harsh winter conditions or because work and school activities limit the time we can “recreate,” RVers must find the best method to put their unit into hibernation. Trying to find a nice, heated, indoor facility can be difficult and very expensive. So most of us are forced to store our RVs outside, which is not always a good idea and can create some very expensive issues.

To read more, go here. 

Is KOA Abandoning RVers In Favor of Glampers?

Above, at the Tucson-Lazydays KOA Resort. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

During my recent trip to Arizona for the Lost Dutchman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus spring clampout, I stayed at two KOA Kampgrounds. One was in Willcox, Arizona and the other was in Tucson, Arizona.

I did not make reservations for either one. I simply drove in and asked the clerks if they had any spaces for my 23' Class C motorhome available. Both did. Thanks to the accumulated bonus points I had, I was able to stay at each for way under $100/night.

Granted, we're not in the summer camping season yet (that officially starts during Memorial Day weekend next month). 

At both KOAs, I did not see any evidence that either one was "abandoning" RV business in favor of glamping. Apparently, some of them are as Chuck Woodbury at RV Travel wrote about in today's Newsletter.

Here's a snippet:

So now we come to KOA, Kampgrounds of America, once referred to as the Motel 6 of campgrounds when its parks were less expensive. I am here today to suggest that KOA is no longer focused on serving RVers. Today, it’s about “glamping,” offering non-RVers stays in luxury cabins, designer tents, yurts, tee-pees, railroad cabooses, covered wagons and other profitable “glamping facilities.” Other RV parks are doing the same, but KOA is the best known.

This summer, an RV site at any KOA close to a popular national park may cost you $100, $150 or more a night — that is if you are lucky enough to find an available space. For example, a two-day weekday stay in my 32-foot motorhome at the KOA in West Glacier, Montana, for a full-hookup Super Site “with grass” goes for $199.70 a night. It would be higher on weekends or holidays.

But good luck getting a reservation. Most of the popular KOAs are already booked solid this summer.

To read more, go here.

Japan Hotel Prices Surge Up

Above, hotel room rates in Japan are soaring as travel rebounds. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Rising travel costs in Japan isn't just confined to the Japan Rail Pass, hotel rates have climbed around the country.

Travel and Tour reported:

Room prices at Japanese hotels are soaring on a rebound in domestic travel and foreign tourism, though the country’s ongoing labor shortage raises concerns about the supply of available rooms.

Nikkei surveyed 50 hotels with more than 100 guest rooms in five major Japanese cities: Sapporo, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Fukuoka. Hotels were asked to compare the average daily rate (ADR) for April 29, the first day of the upcoming annual Golden Week holiday period, with a year before.

Each city showed a strong rise in the rate, with no respondents reporting a drop. About 20% of hotels report an increase of 10% to 40%, with 60% saying ADR will climb at least 50%.

The rise was particularly notable in Tokyo, with ADR increasing by 50% or more at all seven facilities that responded to the survey.

A survey by U.S. hospitality research firm STR shows that Japan’s nationwide average room rate in March was 21% higher than before the pandemic in 2019, and up 59% on the year.

If one plans on traveling to Japan anytime soon, they will have to increase their travel budgets to cover the prices increases. At least for now, the U.S. dollar is at ¥133.93-94 as of last Friday, which helps.

To read more, go here.

G-FAN #139

Above, G-FAN #139.

G-FAN #139 arrived in the mailbox the other day.

It has a striking cover of the Heisei Godzilla, which happens to be one of my favorite Godzilla suit designs.

My little contribution to the issue is on the Niue Godzilla vs. Kong silver coins. Even though the coins were minted in 2021, it seems that many Godzilla fans were unaware they even existed (including me). I discovered and blogged about them late last year.

Above, the Niue Godzilla vs. Kong silver coins. Photo by Armand Vaquer

When I blogged about them, I received messages of thanks from people telling me that they were not even aware of them. One gal messaged me that thanks to my posting on Twitter, she was getting the coins for her boyfriend (or husband, I forgot which) for Christmas. 

Since I wrote the article (I only had the Godzilla coin at the time), I have since purchased the Kong silver coin at the National Money Show last month. They were licensed by Legendary Pictures.

Above, the Kong coin at the National Money Show. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

G-FAN is available by subscription or at your favorite comic book shop. If you don't have a comic book shop that carries it, just Google G-FAN 139 and it'll take you to many who have online ordering.

On the Godzilla vs. Kong coins, JM Bullion carries them.

It will be interesting to see if Niue mints Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire coins once the movie is released.

Tombstone Souvenir Photo Now In Den

The "wanted poster" photo I had taken at Madame Mustache Old Thyme Parlor in Tombstone, Arizona last week has a home. It is now framed and hung on a wall in the den/guest room.

I originally thought I would hang it in the living room, but decided against it. So it is now at its "final resting place" in the den. 

Cortez-Mesa Verde KOA Sold Last Year

Above, our campsite three years ago when the park was still a KOA. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

While checking in at the KOA Kampground in Willcox, Arizona last week, I picked up the 2023 KOA Kampground Directory.

After getting my campsite set up, I thumbed through the directory and saw that the Cortez-Mesa Verde KOA in Cortez, Colorado wasn't listed.

This morning, I did some checking at RV Life Campgrounds Reviews website and found that the Cortez-Mesa Verde KOA was sold to new owners last year and the campground is no longer affiliated with KOA.

It is now called Cortez RV Resort by Rjourney.

I first stayed at this RV park back in the early 1980s and it was a KOA Kampground back then. I last stayed there three years ago.

To read reviews of this RV park, go here.

Arkansas Makes Gold and Silver Legal Tender

The state of Arkansas has made gold and silver legal tender.

According to United States Gold Bureau:

Arkansas House Bill 1718, To Create The Arkansas Legal Tender Act; And To Reaffirm Gold And Silver Coin As Legal Tender, passed the House on April 3 and Senate on April 5. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed the bill into law on April 11, which goes into effect on July 6. The law will make gold and silver coins legal tender in the state.

The bill was sponsored by Rep. Robin Lundstrum (R) and Sen. Jonathan Dismang (R). There was overwhelming support in both houses from the Republic majority. The bill passed the House 82-8 and 32-0 in the Senate. The eight dissenting votes were from Democrats. Five Democrats and two Republicans did not vote on the bill.

This means gold and silver is to be considered money.

To read more, go here. 

Silver Spot Price Closes At $25.17

The silver spot market has closed for the weekend.

The closing spot price is at $25.17/toz.

According to Kitco News:

 

Gov. Lujan Grisham Whines Over "Murderer" Label

The Democrat Party has embraced abortion, sometimes with such glee they are often referred to as the "Party of Death". So when they are called out on their position on it, they scream like gut pigs.

The latest is New Mexico Gov. Michelle "The Groper" Lujan Grisham whining over being called a "murderer" by State Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo) on Twitter. Well, in her case, "if the shoe fits, wear it" (as in Cinderella).

According to the Piñon Post (of which Block is editor and founder):

State Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo) recently took to Twitter to characterize Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s comments supporting abortion up-to-birth as the governor being a “murderer.”

Following the tweet, Lujan Grisham’s office played the victim, telling the Santa Fe New Mexican, “Comments like these absolutely have the potential to incite violence, including to the governor, her family and colleagues.”

It is unclear how she equates being called a “murderer” to “inciting violence,” but she is well-known for name-calling of her own. 

She told New Mexico sheriffs who were unhappy with her anti-gun laws that they were “rogue sheriffs” having a “childish pity party,” and she called her political opponents “QAnon lizard people.”

It is obvious that the governor can dish it out but can't take it.

To read the full story, go here.