Can Americans Travel To Cuba On A Cruise?

Above, yours truly at Havana Port aboard the Majesty of the Seas in April 2019.

In April 2019, Mitch Geriminsky and I took a cruise to Havana, Cuba aboard Royal Caribbean's Majesty of the Seas. This was before travel restrictions were re-imposed on June 5, 2019 by President Donald Trump.

During the 2020 campaign, Joe Biden said he would reverse the Trump restrictions. So far, Biden has done really nothing. 

People wondering about travel to Cuba, especially cruises, can go to Cruise Critic for an article that answers their questions.

They begin with:

One of the biggest questions raised frequently in the US travel industry is this: Can Americans travel to Cuba? That's because the past decade saw the more-than-sixty-year travel embargo to Cuba eased just long enough for some lucky Americans to have enjoyed cruises to Cuba, both on specialty cruise lines and even on mainstream lines.

However, the short window of opportunity closed on June 5, 2019, when U.S. policy changes again blocked tourist travel to Cuba.

Travel to Cuba from, or transiting through the United States by any person considered to be under U.S. jurisdiction (which includes U.S. citizens located anywhere, as well as anyone located in the U.S., regardless of citizenship) must abide by the regulations of the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), under the Department of Treasury.

As of June of 2022, those regulations allow twelve types of general travel authorizations, but retain the restriction on travel strictly for tourist activities.

Here are some things Americans should know about the status of sailing to this long off-limits country.

To read more, go here.

Cuba Issuing Bills Printed On One Side

Above, Cuban CUC currency no longer used. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Things must be pretty bad in Cuba when their banknotes are being dispensed from ATM machines printed only on one side.

Such is the case as reported by World Nation News.

They reported:

Many Cubans lamented on social networks that the island’s ATMs began dispensing bills printed on only one side, possibly due to a lack of ink.

Photos of the “new banknotes” circulate the network and although the regime has not ruled on the matter, a teacher said in a Facebook post by the influential Edmundo Dantes that at his school he paid with bills that had a It was white on the side.

“And then out of the blue the ATMs start giving you invisible money like the achievements of the revolution,” Dantes said in his post.

On his part, Félix Yasser Castillo Pelayo, showing a 100-peso bill with a blank side, conceded that the state “robs you even at the ATM”.

To read more, go here.

What It's Like To Ride Japan's Bullet Trains

Above, a view of Mount Fuji from a Hikari Shinkansen. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One of the most enjoyable things to experience in Japan is taking a ride on one of their famous bullet trains, or Shinkansens.

I have ridden several of them. including the Hikari Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto over the years. It is on this route that Mount Fuji can be seen on clear days.

Monica Humpries took the Hikari to Kyoto and was thrilled with the experience and she writes about it (with plenty of photos) for Insider.

She begins with:

I've had the luxury of sitting underneath glass-dome windows as my Rocky Mountaineer train barreled between Colorado's mountains.

I've peered into a rainforest as a commuter train headed out of Sydney, Australia, and into the bush. 

But nothing could have prepared me for the excitement of riding my first bullet train between Tokyo and Kyoto.

If one wants to ride a bullet train with a Japan Rail Pass, they better do it before October 1. The price of rail passes go up that day.

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 the week (and the last day of July) we have Lou Christie with his 1966 number one hit, "Lightnin' Strikes" and song that reached number 10, "I'm Gonna Make You Mine" from 1969. I was debating which song would be spotlighted, but the following video featuring both solved that problem.

"Lightnin' Strikes" brings back memories of a neighbor friend in L.A. who built a garage radio station that had a very limited broadcast range. He played this song on it. Even though his station had a limited range, it ran up the apartment building landlady's electric bill enormously and she practically did backflips when she saw the amount. She then cut the power to the garages.

From Wikipedia:

Luigi Alfredo Giovanni Sacco (born February 19, 1943), known professionally as Lou Christie, is an American pop and soft rock singer-songwriter known for several hits in the 1960s, including his 1966 US chart-topper "Lightnin' Strikes" and the 1969 number ten "I'm Gonna Make You Mine".

Although Christie is now 80, he is still active.

Ballona Wetlands Starting To Be Cleared of Homeless RVs

Last September, while we were in L.A. for our Hawthorne High School 50ish Reunion in El Segundo, we took a drive around and at one point were in the Ballona Wetlands near Westchester.

We saw many RVs of "homeless" people parked along the roads in the wetlands. It was a disgusting mess.

Finally, the powers-that-be are doing something about it. The RVs and tent camps are starting to be cleared out.

Here's a news report by KCAL News in Los Angeles:

Battery Charging

After yesterday's Jeep problems, I decided to give its battery a charge.

We'll see if it helps.

Jeep Issues Persist

Above, yesterday before the problem came back.

I thought I had the problem with the Jeep fixed. But it persists.

I was driving it around the subdivision and stopped at the Lucier residence at the southern end. While talking to Larry Lucier, the engine conked out and it wouldn't restart. Prior to this, it seemed to be running fine. It is not the fuel pump as it was working and we tried to avoid flooding the carburetor.

The efforts to restart ran the battery down and we tried several battery chargers, but the same problem would happen. It wanted to start, but couldn't for some reason. The battery is only two years old.

I was trying to avoid taking it to the mechanic's next month. Their vintage vehicle specialist was booked up when this all started a few weeks ago and I have to call them next month to get an appointment to bring it in. 

My AAA membership had two tows left and I had to use one of them to tow the Jeep home. I have one left. But the good news is that the renewal kicks in August 31. 

It took AAA about four hours to get the tow truck to me. It is definitely not like in L.A. when a truck usually arrives within 40 minutes.

Fight RV Crime! Install A GPS Tracker

Above, a KOA Kampground in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Whether it is a motorhome or a towable RV, there are crooks out there who would love to steal it.

RVs are big investments and if yours gets stolen, there's one device that would help getting your rig back: a GPS tracker.

RV Travel has posted an article on stolen RVs and GPS trackers.

They begin it with:

The opening image is just a handful of the stolen RVs we’ve posted here on RVtravel.com in our Saturday newsletter. For every one we write about, there are probably dozens more that we don’t hear about. Suffice it to say, crooks want to steal your RV. The question is, if they do, how can you get it back? One way that can increase the odds of finding a stolen RV is by installing and using a GPS tracker. They’re inexpensive. Service fees are relatively low. And nearly any “RV handyperson” can install one in just a few minutes.

To read more, go here. 

RV Travel: Outrageous Campground Rules

Above, a private campground near Crater Lake National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the years, I have been to many campgrounds, public and private. Some have rules and some don't. Some even have "outrageous and ridiculous" rules. Fortunately for me, I haven't encountered any.

However, some RVers have and RV Travel has an article on outrageous and ridiculous campground rules they've encountered.

They begin with:

In June, we published an article on some of the most outrageous and ridiculous campground rules we have found on our journeys this summer. You have added some more in the comments since then, and sadly, the reasons stated there are why there are so many rules!

To read more, go here.

Not Wearing Gloves While Dumping... Big Mistake!

Above, using the dump station at Malibu Creek State Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

There's one thing I make sure I do when emptying the motorhome's holding tanks... wearing gloves.

To me, that's just plain common sense. Who wants to get do-do on your hands?

Apparently, some people don't put on gloves before emptying their holding tanks and RV Travel has an article on why one should wear them.

They begin it with:

In this day of fastidiousness and the injection of antibacterial chemicals in nearly every product, there’s a strange movement out there: Dumping holding tanks with your bare hands. A survey at RVtravel.com revealed that nearly one-third of our readers never or seldom use gloves when dumping.

We’ve sometimes wondered why anyone would take on this bacteriological nightmare without protection. From those that don’t use gloves, we sometimes hear the excuse, “It’s just too much bother and I can’t see much advantage to it.”

To read more, go here. 

This Week Will See Temperatures In The 80s

Above, a summer morning view of the mesas. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Finally, after weeks of 90°+ temperatures in the Gallup/Jamestown, New Mexico area, this week the temperatures will be below 90°.

At least that's according to the National Weather Service. 

We are expecting more thunderstorm activity as we're in monsoon season. That's alright as far as I am concerned.

Here's this week's forecast:

Today

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Light and variable wind becoming west 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. South wind 10 to 15 mph becoming south 5 to 10 mph after midnight. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Sunday

Showers and thunderstorms likely after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 88. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Sunday Night

Showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Low around 59. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light and variable after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Monday

Showers and thunderstorms likely after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Monday Night

Showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Low around 60. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Tuesday

Showers and thunderstorms after noon. High near 84. Chance of precipitation is 90%.

Tuesday Night

Showers and thunderstorms. Low around 59. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Wednesday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Wednesday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Thursday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 88.

Thursday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.

RVIA Critical of New EPA Emissions Rules

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

The meddlesome Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) now wants to target light-duty and medium-duty vehicles (which would include motorhomes) with new strict regulations. Naturally, the clowns of the Biden Administration are in charge of the EPA, so this really shouldn't come as a surprise.

The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) is steadfastly in opposition to these proposed regulations.

From RV Travel:

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) has sent comments to the EPA in reaction to the agency’s proposed stricter emissions standards for light-duty and medium-duty vehicles from 2027 to 2032. The comments expressed opposition to these new regulations. RVIA seeks an exemption for motorhomes from the medium-duty vehicle standards, contending that motorhomes are not well-suited for electrification and that the proposed rule would significantly constrain their use and affordability.

The proposed EPA emissions standards, aimed at fostering the growth of the electric vehicle market and significantly reducing carbon emissions, have been touted as the strictest ever. However, the RVIA points out that implementing these rules would negatively impact the motorhome industry, which, in turn, would have a detrimental effect on manufacturers, dealers, employees, and RV buyers. Installing batteries in motorhomes would infringe on space and add unnecessary weight, thereby affecting the components typically found in a motorhome.

To read more, go here. 

Japan Travel Session Next Year

Above, at the Toho Studios Godzilla statue with the travel guide in 2010.

Although G-FEST in 2024 is about a year off, I proposed to J. D. Lees a session on traveling to Japan to see the sites of kaiju movie locations along kaiju-related attractions (such as the Shin Godzilla statue in Hibiya, Tokyo). He likes this idea.

Along with that, I mentioned producing a supplement update to go along with The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan that I would make available. J. D. thought that was a good idea. 

He said:

I was asked a question about travel to Japan during one of my sessions and recommended your book. I think an update is a good idea. With the weak yen and several kaiju projects in the pipe, interest in kaiju travel may increase.

Not to mention the nearly 50% price hike for the Japan Rail Pass that's supposed to go into effect October 1. That really takes away money-saving incentives for foreigners to visit other Japan places outside of Tokyo. Frankly, I think the price hike is a dumb idea. It one still wants to save money on traveling around Japan with the Japan Rail Pass, buy the pass before October 1.

Above, Yuu Asakura with the travel guide. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The supplement I am envisioning will include attractions that have been added in Japan since The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan was published in 2010. I was planning a full updated book, but things cropped up (such as a heart attack) that made me switch gears. 

I think the last talks on Japan travel to see monster places of interest I did were at Monsterpalooza, the Japan Society of North America and a travel book store that was once in Pasadena, California. They have since gone out of business.

New Chaise Lounge For The Deck

Above, the new chaise lounge. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday, the new chaise lounge for the deck arrived via Federal Express.

The one I bought three years ago got too weather-beatened. The fabric on it was so rotted, I almost fell through (when I sat on it) to the deck if it weren't for a couple of cross bars.

The new one has fabric that almost matches the fabric of my deck chairs. The fabric on the chairs are in good shape still, even after five years.

Above, yours truly enjoying the new chaise lounge and coffee.

I was expecting to assemble the lounge, but it arrived fully assembled, which is a rarity these days. It seems that everything one mail-orders has to be assembled in some fashion.

Anyway, I put it out on the deck and tried it out. I am very pleased with it.

Family Visit

My cousin Maria and her husband Fred are on the way to Tennessee to visit their daughters and grandkids. They stayed at the Albuquerque KOA last night.

Before reaching the KOA, they stopped at the Jamestown, New Mexico Flying J and we had a meal at Denny's there. To them, it was lunch. To me, it was dinner.

I introduced them to Russell Azbill at Denny's. He was there dining when we arrived.

We had a nice reunion and caught up with family and other things. While we were there, we saw a few lightning flashes to the south and we got a few sprinkles. 

Of course, we had our usual photo taken. We do this whenever they stop by.

Contrary to what the photo shows, nothing was growing out of Fred's head. 

Winnebago’s Electric RV Prototype

Above, the Winnebago eRV2 camper van. Photo by Winnebago Industries.

With the automotive industry introducing more and more electric vehicles (EV), it was inevitable that RV manufacturers would follow suit.

But is an electric RV practical? I have serious doubts, considering EV technology as it now stands.

Outside magazine's website (Outsideonline.com) has a review of Winnebago's new electric Class B RV, the eRV2. Writer Robert Annis took it out for a test drive (five day's worth) and gives his opinion.

He starts with:

Minutes after Winnebago introduced their electric concept camper van in 2022, I began hounding the company to let me take it for a spin. Thankfully, after unveiling their latest prototype, called the eRV2, earlier this year, they finally relented and agreed to let me borrow it for a five-day test drive in California.

The state has the most charging stations of any other in the country, so I chose to test the eRV2—which will likely be available to consumers early next year—north of the Bay Area, believing it would likely have the best ratio of chargers to gorgeous scenery. I wanted to test the range of the vehicle, the amenities, and the overall comfort to see if it was a practical vehicle for both weekend road trips and extended jaunts. Here’s what I found out.

To read more, go here. 

Sealed Bag of Franklin Half Dollars May Be Worth $100,000

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

Generally, from different articles I have read, Franklin silver half dollars aren't that popular within the numismatic world for varying reasons.

But a sealed canvas bag of 2,000 Franklin silver half dollars set to go up for auction is a big exception. The bag of coins may fetch $100,000 at auction according to Numismatic News.

They wrote:

A canvas bag containing 2,000 silver half dollars struck in 1963 at the Denver Mint and sewn shut there 60 years ago will bring a pretty penny for an elderly northeast Oklahoma woman who received the coins as a gift from her father a half-century ago.

“This original, mint-sealed bag contains $1,000 face value of 50-cent denomination coins, but each 1963 half dollar depicting Benjamin Franklin contains about $9 worth of silver. Also, mint condition 1963 Denver Mint half dollars usually sell today for about $50 each, so I would not be surprised if this bag sold for $100,000 or more,” stated Rick Tomaska, co-founder of Rare Collectibles TV of Los Angeles, Calif.

To read more, go here. 

Numismatic News: Base Metal Coins Stay Hot

Above, Morgan silver dollars continue to sell well. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The spot price on COMEX dropped yesterday after reaching over $25.00/toz the day before. The current price (at this writing) is $24.44/toz.

However, base metal coins are staying hot according to Numismatic News.

They wrote:

The value of many collectible yet generally available, intrinsic value impacted, or bullion coins remains strong as the spot price of gold, silver and platinum remain in a tight trading range. A weakened U.S. dollar on world markets is the main reason the metals remain in their current range, but with economic uncertainties and inflationary pressures remaining ahead, it is likely this scenario will continue for some time.

The demand for coins comprised of these metals ensures most such coins will sell for a reasonable markup above the spot price of their precious metal content. Since the metals have not declined significantly from their recent highs despite the challenge from a bullish equities market, many investors as well as collectors continue to buy and hold rather than to sell. My comments aren’t meant to oversell such coins within the market for collector or investment grade coins.

To read more, go here. 

10 Best Landmarks In Japan

Above, Shinjuku's Godzilla head made the list at number 10. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Now that foreign travel to Japan is at full-throttle, people wanting to visit the country usually have special places (to them) and landmarks they wish to visit.

That is the subject of a new article by TheTravel. They provide a list of ten landmarks that, they say, make people want to book their flight.

The begin it with:

Landmarks are structures, objects, places, or features of a landscape that are easily recognized that assist travelers in determining their location. From the most famous landmarks in the world to intriguing attractions around the world that have spurred travelers to book a trip, experiencing landmarks in person is on every traveler's to-do list.

These are the best landmarks in Japan that should definitely be on every traveler's itinerary.

The "Big G" made the list (number 10). 

This is from the summary:

The Godzilla head in Shinjuku is a must-see landmark for film enthusiasts, weighing 80 tons and modeled after the creature in Godzilla vs Mothra.

To read more, go here.

Crater Lake Fire Ban Starts Today

Above, Wizard Island is barely visible in the smoky haze in 2017. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 2017, I visited Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. It was fun visiting the park after fifty or so years.

The only thing that marred the visit was smoke from wildfires in the surrounding area. The fires didn't hamper my visit, but they made picture-taking of the lake smoky.

Since fire danger is increasing in the area, there is a ban (in force starting today) on open fires.

The Herald and News reported yesterday:

A ban on wood and charcoal fires, fireworks and smoking goes into effect Friday at Crater Lake National Park.

Park officials said that with the increase in fire danger in southern Oregon, the park will go into a full fire ban. According to Fire Management Officer Phil Heitzke, “The outlook is for above normal significant wildland fire potential for the next several months, To ensure public safety and to provide the highest degree of protection to park resources, the following fire ban will be implemented effective at 12:01 a.m. Friday.”

Under the restrictions, wood fires and charcoal fires are not allowed. Liquid fuel and propane camp stoves and gas grills are permitted in campgrounds, picnic areas, backcountry areas and residential areas.

To read more, go here. 

Headed To G-FEST Next Year

Above, yours truly at the 2019 G-FEST with Jessica Tseang. Photo by Steve Ryfle.

Well, I booked my room for next year's G-FEST in the Chicago area.

It is set for next July 12-14, 2024, but considering the large attendance expected, it would be prudent to book the room now (the G-FEST hotel has opened room booking. So I did. It is at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Rosemont, Illinois, which is a new hotel for the convention. 

I attended the 2019 G-FEST at the old hotel, the Crowne Plaza, which the convention outgrew. I am looking forward to the new convention digs.

It will be nice seeing everyone again after five years.

For more information on G-FEST, go here.

Five and Six Years Ago Today

Above, a few hours after the stents were put in. Photo by Mitch Geriminsky.

Today marks five years since I had a near-heart attack from an arterial blockage that required two stents.

The episode took place at Bella's Restaurant and Espresso in Wells, Nevada where four of us were about to have lunch. It hit just after our food was delivered. We were in Wells for the annual Wells Fun Run car rally. Needless to say, I missed the car show.

I had to be airlifted via helicopter to Twin Falls, Idaho to the Magic Valley Medical Center. Since then, I have been feeling fine.

This day also marks six years since my cousin Ralph was found deceased from a heart attack. My phone number was apparently the only one on his cell phone and the L.A. County Sheriff called me with the news. My roommate Jessica and I were at the Northridge In-N-Out Burger when I got the call. It was up to me to notify his sister Rosemarie. 

I think of my cousin Ralph often. He and I used to hit record stores for vintage records in the months preceding his passing. Fun times. 

Fed Raises Interest Rates, Silver Goes Over $25/toz

The Federal Reserve decided to raise interest rates to a 22-year high.

In response, the COMEX silver spot price climbed over $25.00/toz.

From Fox Business:

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday raised its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a point, resuming its campaign to increase borrowing costs and crush inflation after a brief pause in June.

The unanimous decision puts the key benchmark federal funds rate at a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, the highest since 2001, further restricting economic activity as the borrowing costs for homes, cars and other items march higher.

To read more, go here. 

Finally, Some Rain

Above, the deck after the rain started. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

After taking Larry Lucier to his weekly physical therapy and having dinner at the Silver Screen Café in the El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, we noticed that dark clouds were covering the area. It looked like rain was imminent.

Along the way to Jamestown on Interstate 40, we saw some flashes of lightning. 

About an hour after getting home, it did indeed start raining. At times, it rained pretty hard. We needed this rain. The monsoon finally kicked in.

More rain is expected in the next few days. 

The area is sure to "green up" from the rain.  

Hunter Biden's Plea Deal Reportedly Implodes

Above, Hunter Biden.

Despite the "sweetheart deal" that Hunter Biden was going to plead on, he was never really out of the legal woods.

Well, he's definitely back deep into the woods again as the plea deal imploded.

The Daily Caller reported:

Hunter Biden’s plea deal on tax misdemeanors charges is off, CNN reported Wednesday.

Biden had been expected to plead guilty to tax misdemeanor charges Wednesday in a Delaware court, entering a plea deal with the Department of Justice (DOJ) on the tax misdemeanor charges to avoid jail time on a separate gun charge.

The plea deal reportedly fell apart after the defense and prosecution did not agree on the scope of the immunity of coverage that Biden had, specifically if Biden would be covered from being charged on Foreign Agents Restoration Act (FARA) in the future.

 To read more, go here.

Monsoon Season Kicking In This Week?

Above, a 2019 double rainbow. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It appears that monsoon season may be finally kicking in this week (but I'm not holding my breath).

The National Weather Service forecast for this week indicates thundershowers will hit the Jamestown, New Mexico area in earnest this week. However, they've been known to be wrong before. Hopefully, we will get the much-needed rain this week. It's been pretty dry lately and I had to water the trees a couple of evenings ago.

The forecast for this week:

Today

Scattered showers and thunderstorms after noon. Increasing clouds, with a high near 93. Light and variable wind becoming west 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tonight

Scattered showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Cloudy, then gradually becoming partly cloudy, with a low around 63. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming south 5 to 10 mph after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Thursday

Showers and thunderstorms likely after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 91. Light and variable wind becoming west 10 to 15 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Thursday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Light and variable wind becoming north 10 to 15 mph in the morning.

Friday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.

Saturday

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92.

Saturday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Sunday

Showers and thunderstorms likely after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Sunday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Monday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Monday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Tuesday

Showers and thunderstorms. High near 84. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Fed Day For Interest Rates Today

As things currently stand with the COMEX silver spot price:

Today's the day that the Federal Reserve will announce its decision on hiking the interest rates. Or not (you never know).

If the interest rate is hiked by the Fed, one can expect a "shock" to the precious metals market.

From Investing.com:

• 98% consensus for 25-bps hike means gold, silver to dip before Powell comments
• Fed chief’s outlook on rates will tell if another hike due before the end of 2023
• While another rate pause is seen as highly unlikely, Fed could still surprise

Whichever way the Fed leans today — a 25 basis point hike or another pause — there will be consequences for risk assets from the dollar’s response, with precious metals led by gold and silver possibly showing the most magnified reaction among commodities.

In one of the most unified consensus on what the Federal Reserve is likely to decide for July interest rates, the odds for a hike stood at 99.2% in the morning previous to the announcement.

Indeed, if the Fed decision, due at 14:00 Eastern (18:00 GMT), shows a quarter-point hike for this month, expect stock, energy and metals prices to take a brief hit before they quickly calm to focus on the “real event” of the day — Chair Jay Powell’s outlook on rates going forth. 

To read more, go here. 

June RV Shipments Down Compared To 2022

The boom in RV shipments during the pandemic is now over. This was expected to to happen sooner or later.

Although shipments are down, I am still seeing transporters of new RVs from Indiana stopped at the Flying J.

According to RV Business:

Results for the RV Industry Association’s (RVIA) June 2023 survey of manufacturers found that total RV shipments ended the month with 24,095 units, a decrease of 46.4% compared to the 44,942 units shipped in June 2022. To date, RV shipments are down 49.2% with 164,830 units.

The decrease was not unexpected, it should be noted, as several manufacturers scheduled shutdowns to one degree or another during parts of June and July due to softening market conditions and excess dealer inventory.

To read more, go here. 

"The Best of Bond... James Bond" LP Set

My order of the 2021 release, "The Best of Bond... James Bond" three-record LP set arrived today. I ordered it through Tower Records.

It is the latest compilation of main title tracks to the James Bond movies from Dr. No (1962) to No Time To Die (2021). The set includes Adele's "Skyfall", a song not included, oddly, in the official soundtrack album. The CD version contains two discs.

According to 007.com:

UMe have released an updated version of “The Best Of Bond… James Bond”, a digital, 2CD and 3LP vinyl compilation featuring celebrated Bond theme songs. The new James Bond 2021 Edition includes “No Time To Die” by Billie Eilish from No Time To Die. Also now included are Adele’s “Skyfall” from Skyfall and Sam Smith’s Spectre theme, “Writing’s On the Wall,” – Oscar® winners for Best Song in 2013 and 2016, respectively.

I decided to get the LP set as vinyl records have better sound quality than does CDs. I was not disappointed.

If one is a fan of Bond movies, especially the music, this is a must-have album.

"On Her Majesty's Secret Service" Score Suite

Above, George Lazenby's autographed photo. 

Longtime James Bond fans would instantly notice that some pieces of John Barry's On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) music were used in No Time To Die (2021). 

The soundtrack of On Her Majesty's Secret Service was one of the best (if not THE best) of Barry's James Bond scores. 

The movie itself is considered by many as one of the best Bond movies. Even though the script was written with Sean Connery in mind, the actor decided to depart from the series and was replaced by George Lazenby. 

Lazenby had very little acting experience at the time of his casting. But with that being considered, he did quite well (in my humble opinion). Had he gone on to do more Bonds, he most likely would have grown well into the role. 

But, as this blog post began, it was John Barry's scores that greatly enhanced the movie. 

Here's a YouTube suite of the score:

RV Tires and Summer Heat

Above, my motorhome is protected in its garage. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

RV parts and accessories stores such as Camping World carry tire covers for a reason. RVs sitting out in the sun for weeks will get damaged. When I first bought my motorhome, I bought many accessories for it and that included tire covers. 

At the time, my RV sat out in the open at my apartment's parking lot. I kept the tires covered when the RV wasn't in use.

After moving to New Mexico, I had a RV garage built to protect it and its tires. Moving to an area at 7,000 feet in elevation made this more necessary. My tires are in great shape as a result. I keep all of my vehicles garaged for the same reasons.

Do It Yourself RV has an article on tires and summer heat with tips on protecting them.

The begin it with:

For many people, summer is the ideal time to climb into your RV and hit the road. It’s great to travel during the warm seasons because you don’t need to worry about snowstorms and icy roads. But the summer heat comes with its own dangers. Tires are one of the key areas that are affected by soaring temperatures.

Excessive heat can damage or even destroy RV tires if you’re not careful. High temperatures can warp the rubber and cause additional issues like leaks, dry rot, and tire pressure differences. In the worst-case scenarios, your tires might even explode while you’re driving!

Although summer heat is certainly dangerous, there are things you can do to prevent tire damage. As long as you’re aware of the risk factors and take steps to avoid them, you can continue to use your tires during every season of the year. Below, we’ll explore some of the dangers your tires will face and how you can prevent them.

To read more, go here. 

Beating The Heat While RVing

Above, camping at Lake Havasu where it is over 100° daily in the summer. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It has been hot for the past several weeks. At my home in New Mexico, the temperature has been in the 90s.

I was thinking about going up to Durango, Colorado to beat the heat. But I found that the temperatures there are no better than in New Mexico. So I nixed that idea.

However, if one is about to head out in their RV during this hot summer, RV Travel has some tips on beating the heat.

They begin with:

It’s hot. Really hot. Locations across the country are setting all-time heat records this summer. Perhaps no one knows about heat better than RVers. Face it. We RVers battle the heat while living in what’s basically an oversized tin can or cardboard box. The question on all of our minds is: How can we beat the heat while RVing?

To read what they suggest, go here. 

Devon Archer To "Sing Like A Canary" On Joe Biden

It looks like this week will prove to be a bad one for His Fraudulency Joe Biden.

A former associate of Hunter Biden will testify this week before the House Oversight Committee. He is also going to confirm that Joe Biden was/is indeed the "Big Guy".

According to the Gateway Pundit:

Hunter Biden’s former associate and convicted felon, Devon Archer, is reportedly cooperating with Republican lawmakers and will testify this week on the $10 million Ukraine-Biden bribe.

According to New York Post reporter Miranda Devine, Devon Archer is going to sing like a canary and tell Congress that Hunter Biden put his dad, then-VP Joe Biden on speakerphone into meetings with his foreign business associates at least two dozen times.

Archer, who is currently facing one year in prison for defrauding an Indian tribe, will testify to the House Oversight Committee about at least two dozen meetings he witnessed Joe Biden attend either in person or by phone at Hunter’s request.

Devon Archer will also confirm to lawmakers that Joe Biden is indeed the “Big Guy.”

This should be interesting!

To read more, go here. 

Jeep Tinkering

Above, this morning at the GOCO Beast Barn. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Before heading down to the post office this morning, I did some tinkering with the Jeep.

It had been acting as if the fuel pump was going out, but after putting in some Sea Foam and running the engine for over 20 minutes and driving it around, it seems to be okay.

Sea Foam fuel treatment is supposed to:

• Helps your entire fuel system run smoother & last longer
• Cleans fuel injectors & carburetor passageways
• Cleans intake valves & chamber deposits
• Lubricates upper cylinders
• Safe for all gasoline & diesel engines                            

It has worked to get prior fuel system issues resolved before. 

I also did some spark plug cleaning along with checking the oil and radiator water. 

I will gradually drive it more to make sure it is back to normal. So far, so good.

Biden Administration Cracking Down On Water Heaters

First it was gas stoves. Then it was dishwashers, clothes washers, refrigerators, air conditioners and gas furnaces. 

Now, they are going after another home appliance: water heaters.

From Fox News:

The Biden administration unveiled a regulatory proposal late Friday targeting water heaters, the latest in a string of energy efficiency actions cracking down on home appliances.

The Department of Energy (DOE) said its proposal would ultimately "accelerate deployment" of electric heat pump water heaters, save Americans billions of dollars and vastly reduce carbon emissions. If finalized, the proposed standards would force less energy efficient, but cheaper, water heaters off the market.

In addition to water heaters, over the last several months, the DOE has unveiled new standards for a wide variety of other appliances including gas stoves, clothes washers, refrigerators and air conditioners. The agency's comment period on a separate dishwasher regulatory proposal concluded Tuesday.

In a few weeks, they will be proposing a ban on light bulbs. 

This is from people who fly around in private jets and travel in multi-car motorcades.

To read more, go here.

Top 10 Things To Do In Kyoto

Above, the stage of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the years, I have been to Kyoto, Japan twice.

First, it was in 2004 with G-TOUR, a tour group of 60 comprised of Godzilla/kaiju fans. This was during the heat of July, but we had an enjoyable time. Next, it was in October 2015. It was equally enjoyable and the temperature was much milder.

Travel + Leisure has posted a list of the top ten best things to do in Kyoto.

They begin it with:

A sense of timelessness permeates the air as the Shinkansen Hikari Bullet Train comes to a grinding halt, marking the end of a whirlwind journey. As you wade through the milling crowds and step out into the ancient capital of Japan, you realise why Kyoto is hailed as the poster child of” Zen”. The land of 2000 temples with staggering 17 World Heritage Sites is caught in a time warp, steeped in lost traditions, and surrounded by sublime gardens, atmospheric lantern-lit lanes, wooden tea houses and postcard vistas. Nestled amidst the hills, the city of geishas and maikos is enveloped in a state of stillness and sometimes the only sound you can hear in one of the tranquil nooks is the murmuring of a brook in a lush garden.

But there is more to Kyoto than golden temples and vermillion shrines. The Imperial City with its palaces and castles takes you back to the era when Kyoto was home to emperors. The bustling markets and the varied museums vie with bamboo groves and verdant forests for your attention. Traditional tea ceremonies and rituals add to the list of fascinating experiences. Kyoto has something in it for every traveller, be it for those seeking spiritual solace or thrills and adventures. There are fun and free things to do for travellers of all ages and it is magical in every season. If you are a first-time visitor to the Japanese cultural capital, then here are the ten best things to do in Kyoto which will inspire you to plan your next trip.

To see what they are, go here.