New Year's Eve

 

Jimmy Carter: Movie Star!

Well, sort of.

One of the funniest comedy movies of the 1980s was Used Cars (1980) starring Kurt Russell and Jack Warden. 

In this clip, the president's televised address on inflation is interrupted by a commercial.

Japan: 10 Annoying Foreign Tourist Behaviors On Trains

Above, inside a Shinkansen (bullet train) car. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Japan seems to have many etiquette rules. Anyone who has been there at least several times gets acclimated with them with no real problem (more or less).

Unbeknownst to some (especially newbies), there are even rules on trains. 

Sora News has posted an article with a list of the top 10 annoying foreign tourist behaviors on trains.

They begin it with:

Japan is seeing more inbound foreign tourists than ever these days, which also means more inbound foreign tourists than ever on public transportation. But as locals and Japanese residents increasingly rub elbows on trains, that also means more chances for tourist behavior to rub locals the wrong way.

As part of its annual study on train/station etiquette, the Japan Private Railway Association collected responses from 5,314 participants via an online survey. 62.9 percent of the respondents said they’d been bothered by impolite behavior by foreign tourists, and the survey then asked them to designate up to two specific complaints, resulting in the following top 10 list (technically top 11, if you count the entry of “other”).

To see what they are, go here. 

2024: Not Bad

Above, during the horseback ride in Monument Valley.

Well, 2024 is just about wrapped up.

The year hasn't been bad for me. For one thing, nobody in the family has passed away, which is always a good thing.

Above, during a boat tour in Nassau, Bahamas. Photo by Mitch Geriminsky.

Thus far, it has been a mild winter. Not much snow has fallen as of late. But there's always January and February. 

I managed to do some traveling. Two clampouts were attended. A cruise to the Bahamas was taken. Helped with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation Half Marathon in Ridgway, Colorado. That was immediately followed by a trip to Monument Valley. A visit with ex-roomie Jessica in Des Moines, Iowa. That included a visit to the John Wayne Birthplace and Museum in nearby Winterset. Christmas was spent with the Geriminskys in Lake Havasu. I also visited Fort Sumner, New Mexico and toured the Billy the Kid Museum and gravesite. I attended this year's G-FEST in Rosemont, Illinois (near Chicago). It was good to see everyone there.

Above, during a Jeep drive to McGaffey Lake in May.

Happily, the 2024 Election turned out the way I wanted. We even gained some ground in the New Mexico legislature during the election. That is certainly a plus!

Above. with the gang at Grandpa's Grill in Gallup.

What 2025 holds is anyone's guess, but I am optimistic.

I plan on staying home tonight. It is safer that way. 

Happy New Year!

"Malaise" Led To The Election of Ronald Reagan

 

Jimmy Carter’s presidency: A time of 'malaise' that led to the election of Ronald Reagan https://t.co/Al6Ze4BcBV #FoxNews

— Bo Snerdley (@BoSnerdley) December 30, 2024

 

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.

I was going to post this one last Monday, but I was on the road to Lake Havasu to spend Christmas with friends. I was too exhausted that night to post after I got there.

For the last week in 2024, we have Journey with their 1980 hit, "Any Way You Want It". The song was featured in the comedy, Caddyshack.

From Wikipedia:

Journey is an American rock band formed in San Francisco in 1973 by former members of Santana, the Steve Miller Band, and Frumious Bandersnatch. The band as of 2024 consists of Neal Schon on guitars and vocals (the last remaining original member); Jonathan Cain on keyboards, guitars and vocals; Deen Castronovo on drums and vocals; Arnel Pineda on lead vocals; Jason Derlatka on keyboards and vocals; and Todd Jensen on bass.

Journey had their biggest commercial success between 1978 and 1987, when Steve Perry was lead vocalist; they released a series of hit songs, including "Don't Stop Believin'" (1981), which in 2009 became the top-selling track in iTunes history among songs not released in the 21st century.

Jimmy Carter, 1924 - 2024

Above, a 1976 Carter campaign button. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It has been announced that former President Jimmy Carter has passed away at age 100.

It has been my impression that Carter was the last honest Democrat president, although ineffective. It has been said that he was a better ex-president than president. It is something that I agree with.

I worked in the Reagan For President campaign in 1980. That was the election that ousted Carter from office.

Much has been said about his failures. There was one failure I didn't blame him for: the doomed rescue attempt of the American hostages. Yes, the mission was a failure, but at least Carter gave the go-ahead to try. 

The 1976 Carter campaign button shown at top is the only one I have from his campaign. I believe I got it from El Camino College professor Lance Widman. 

Think Lever-Action Rifles Are Old News? Think Again

Above, a collection of lever-action rifles at the Billy the Kid
 Museum in Fort Sumner, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

MSN seems to be pro-gun of late.

They have posted numerous gun-related articles. The latest is on lever-action rifles and how they fit in the the scheme of things in history.

It has a slideshow of rifles.

They begin with:

Any look back at the history of rifles in the United States will, at one point or another, lead to a discussion of the lever-action rifle. This unique firearm wasn’t ideal for military battles but was unquestionably a mainstay of the American frontier and Wild West. For millions of Americans, this rifle was introduced through the movies, which gave a sense of how these weapons worked best. 

To read more and see the slideshow, go here. 

By the way, women are leading the surge in gun ownership. Go here.

Women Are Leading A Surge In Gun Ownership

Women are leading a surge in gun ownership.

This has been blogged here previously. The latest is from The Hill. Their article also explains why this is so.

They begin with:

There’s a quiet revolution happening in the world of gun ownership in America — and it’s being led by women.  

For years, firearms ownership was seen as a predominantly male activity, but recent trends show that women are driving the surge in new gun buyers. A recent Gallup poll highlights this growing shift, showing that women are not only purchasing firearms at higher rates, they are rethinking what it means to protect themselves and their families in today’s world.  

This is no fleeting trend; it’s a cultural shift. And it’s changing the face of gun ownership across the country. 

To read more, go here. 

Santa Fe Skies RV Park

Above, my campsite during my 2020 stay. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

A couple of weeks ago, RV Life posted an article on an RV park I stayed at. It was Deer Creek Valley RV Park in Topeka, Kansas.

They've done it again, they posted about another RV park I've stayed at, Santa Fe Skies RV Park in Santa Fe, New Mexico. 

I stayed there back in January 2020 when I attended the Second Amendment Rally at the state capitol. I enjoyed my stay.

They begin their article with:

New Mexico is indeed a popular destination for snowbirds, but the Land of Enchantment has plenty to appreciate during the other seasons of the year as well. Some of the biggest attractions include the unique cities, historical sites, and vibrant festivals. So, if you’re planning for the upcoming season and looking for a base camp that will put you close to all this and more, try Santa Fe Skies RV Park.

As the name suggests, this park is on the outskirts of Santa Fe, but it’s also about an hour away from Albuquerque. Both of these are hotspots for visitors, so you’ll find plenty to see and do during your stay. The campground is also very well-reviewed and comes with several amenities that will make you want to return again and again.

When the cold weather starts to get you down or you’re in need of a change of scenery, pack your bags and head south. Santa Fe Skies RV Park is waiting for you. Read on to learn more about this campground and some of the reasons why it should be on your must-visit list.

To read more, go here. 

Panama Violating Its Canal Treaty By Cozying Up To China

Above, the Panama Canal. Tripadvisor photo.

Panama president rules out talks with Trump over canal threat • Dec. 27, 2024, 1:54 AM ET (Voice of America English News)

In 1976, former Gov. Ronald Reagan made the Panama Canal a campaign issue during the year's GOP presidential primary campaign against President Gerald Ford. He charged that Ford and Sec. of State Henry Kissinger were about to turn over control of the canal to Panama. They didn't accomplish this.

Above, Nancy and Ronald Reagan at the 1976 Republican National Convention. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

However, after Jimmy Carter beat Ford in the 1976 election, he turned it over to Panama.

Recently, two friends took a two-week cruise that included sailing through the canal. They learned that cruise ships have to pay around $200,000 to cross through the canal.

Now, it seems that Panama is giving control operations to China, in violation of the Panama Canal Treaties.

From the New York Post:

“Welcome to the United States Canal!” the once and future President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social Sunday, along with a photo of an American flag proudly fluttering over a narrow body of water.

Earlier in the day, Trump had told a crowd at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest rally that he would never allow the Panama Canal, a strategic waterway built by the United States over a century ago to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, to fall into the “wrong hands.”

Trump made an economic argument along with his geopolitical one: “We’re being ripped off at the Panama Canal like we’re being ripped off everywhere else,” he told the audience as he denounced the increased fees billed to American shippers by the canal’s operators.

The waterway, originally an American possession, was given to Panama by President Jimmy Carter in two 1977 treaties that barely passed the two-thirds Senate majorities necessary for ratification.

The first treaty obliged Panama to operate the canal neutrally, with nondiscriminatory pricing, and allowed the United States to defend it from any threat that might interfere with its neutrality.

The second treaty transferred full control to Panama effective on Dec. 31, 1999, without superseding the first treaty’s broad provision allowing for US defense of this crucial military and economic asset.

Yet despite the assurances in these agreements, the sad truth is the Panama Canal is already in the “wrong hands”: China’s.

In 1996, Panama made a 25-year agreement to outsource management of the canal’s two entry ports — Cristóbal on the Atlantic side and Balboa on the Pacific — to a subsidiary of Hutchison Whampoa, a Hong Kong-based shipping firm.

To read more, go here. 

Why Winter Is The Perfect Time To Visit Japan

Above, following a snowstorm in Chiba Prefecture. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the years, I've been in Japan during winter only once. That was in February 2014 and at the same time I was there, the country was hit by two big snowstorms. The first one arrived when I did.

Above, Nakamise Street shops. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

That didn't stop me from enjoying the trip. It made it more interesting, especially when I was stuck aboard a commuter train between Narita Airport and Tokyo for several hours due to snow. 

Above, Kurihama's Godzilla slide with a dusting of snow. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

According to an article in National Geographic, there are some advantages of traveling to Japan during winter.

They begin with:

There’s no question Japan is one of the most popular destinations on the planet right now and with good reason. From its deeply distinctive culture to great food to fascinating historic sites, it has so much of what travelers love, and that also means it’s often crowded, even overtouristed. This is why I recommend it for a winter trip when many people are seeking sun and sand. Last winter I put together a 12-day getaway for myself and my husband that included Tokyo, Kyoto, and a drive across the region known as the Japanese Alps. It was perfect and gave us a taste of what makes Japan so great without intense crowds or logistical hassles.  

Above, my hotel in Ueno following the second snowstorm. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here. 

Man Goes Overboard A Norwegian Cruise Ship

Above, Norwegian Sky docked off Great Stirrup Cay. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This is a strange story.

A man aboard the Norwegian Epic went overboard and a search ensued. Unfortunately, he had not been found and the search was called off.

It seems weird that someone would go overboard a cruise ship, given that it has railings. Either he was doing something incredibly stupid and accidentally went overboard or he intentionally did so.

The ship was en route to Great Stirrup Cay when the incident occurred. I had been on the Norwegian cruise ship, Norwegian Sky, in August and Great Stirrup Cay was one of our stops.

From Fox News:

The frantic search for a Norwegian Cruise Line passenger who went overboard has been called off.

A spokesperson for the cruise line confirmed to Fox News Digital that the 51-year-old went overboard from Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic late Thursday afternoon. 

The incident was first noted at approximately 3 p.m. as Norwegian Epic was sailing from Ocho Rios, Jamaica en route to Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. 

The passenger was on the cruise with his family, the spokesperson said. The cruise left from Port Canaveral, Florida on Saturday, Dec. 21 and was a seven-night Western Caribbean voyage.

 To read more, go here.

"Godzilla x Kong" Toy

This morning, I had to go into Gallup to pick up my meds. While I was in town, I did some shopping at Walmart and found this Godzilla toy on sale. It is a tie-in to Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire. Since it was marked down, I bought it.

The toy has a couple of roars. I posted a short video at YouTube.

 

The Myth of the Perfect Deer Hunting Rifle

Above, the Winchester 94 has been used for deer hunting
since the late 19th Century. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Deer hunting. That's one shooting activity I could not to bring myself to do.

I understand the sport has its place. The purpose is to keep deer populations from overpopulating their food supply. 

Friends here in Jamestown, New Mexico do occasionally go out deer (and elk) hunting. I sometimes see deer in our subdivision.  

MSN has posted an article (with photo slideshow) on, "The Myth of the Perfect Deer Hunting Rifle".

They begin it with:

When it comes to hunting deer, the debate over the “perfect rifle” is endless. Some hunters swear by the power of large-caliber rifles, while others argue that precision and a well-placed shot are more critical than caliber size. But does the ideal deer rifle truly exist, or is it a myth? Many hunters might be surprised to learn that the best deer rifle could very well be the one they already own. The truth is, the “perfect” deer rifle is a deeply personal choice based on the hunter’s skill, preferences, and the environment in which they hunt.

 To read more and see the slideshow, go here.

Granny’s Got a Gun: Armed Seniors

Among the most vulnerable groups are senior citizens to predators.

Nowadays, these seniors are arming up to protect themselves against criminal attacks. MSN has posted a slideshow of the reasons.

The start it off with:

Gone are the days when Grandma’s biggest weapon was a wooden spoon. Today’s seniors are trading their knitting needles for something with more firepower. Across the country, older adults are arming themselves, and it’s not just to keep those pesky kids off their lawns.

But why are seniors suddenly packing heat? These boomers have some pretty solid reasons for embracing their Second Amendment rights.

To see the slideshow, go here. 

Court: Nonviolent Felon Protected By 2nd Amendment

Generally, the law had been that if someone commits a felony and is convicted of it, he/she would be stripped of their Second Amendment constitutional rights.

All that appears to be changing.

Courts have been coming down on the side of non-violent felons that they still have Second Amendment rights and protections. I agree with this.

The latest is from the 3rd Circuit Court.

The Tucson Sentinel reported:

A nonviolent conviction from the mid-1990s shouldn't interfere with a Delaware man's right to arm himself, the Third Circuit ruled en banc, doubling down on a previous finding that was vacated by the U.S. Supreme Court.

"We are pleased that the en banc Third Circuit has once again held that it is unconstitutional to disarm Bryan Range on the basis of a decades-old, nonviolent offense," Peter Patterson, Range's attorney, told Courthouse News Tuesday following the opinion’s late Monday evening release.

In its 13-2 ruling, the appellate court reversed a federal court decision that barred a Range from gun ownership after he fraudulently obtained $2,458 in food stamps approximately three decades ago. The circuit court was in favor of reinstating Second Amendment rights to Range, who pleaded guilty to welfare fraud in 1995, was sentenced to probation and was unknowingly stripped of those rights by federal law because the crime was punishable by over a year in prison.

“In sum, we reject the government’s contention that ‘felons are not among “the people” protected by the Second Amendment,’” U.S. Circuit Judge Thomas M. Hardiman, a George W. Bush appointee, wrote in his opinion.

“Because the government has not shown that our Republic has a longstanding history and tradition of depriving people like Range of their firearms, [18 U.S. Code] §922(g)(1) cannot constitutionally strip him of his Second Amendment rights,” he added.

To read more, go here. 

Dinner At Lake Havasu Black Bear Diner

Going out to dinner in Lake Havasu City, Arizona on Christmas Day is not exactly a great idea.

For one thing, very few restaurants, fast food and sit-downs, were open. I far as we were able to tell, only Denny's, McDonalds, Carl's Jr. and Black Bear Diner were the ones open. We went to Black Bear Diner. To say that they were busy would be an understatement. 

Above, Holly and Mitch during the wait outside. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Well, after giving our name to the hostess immediately after arrival, we waited for about an hour before we were called to be seated. There were many people waiting. After ordering, we waited almost another hour before our meals were brought. At least we had our drinks brought within a reasonable time. But we had to wait for the silverware to be bought. 

Above, the holiday menu showing a nice plate of turkey. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Mitch Geriminsky ordered the special holiday turkey dinner while his wife Holly and I had salads. 

Unfortunately, Mitch's turkey dinner did not look anything like what the menu showed. The menu had a photo of a turkey dinner with several slices of turkey that appeared to be a quarter inch thick. What he received looked like thin slices of deli turkey meat. Plus, everything was cold. It definitely was not worth the $25.99 price. 

Above, this is what was brought to Mitch. It didn't look
anything like what was advertised. Photo by Mitch Geriminsky.

It probably would have been better if we stayed at home and ate the leftovers from last night's dinner. 

Well, Holly talked to the manager about the service (she felt the waitress had an attitude) and the poor quality of the meal Mitch received. Our salads were just fine, no complaints. 

So, it is probably not a good idea to go out on Christmas Day for dinner in Lake Havasu City since there were so few eateries open. Lesson learned.

Picked Up A Couple of Winchesters

Yes, I picked up a couple of Winchesters yesterday. Not guns, but Winchester brand cleaning kits for shotguns and rifles.

Mitch Geriminsky and I went to a Lake Havasu pawn shop (Mr. Pawn) and they had the gun cleaning kits for the ungodly sum of $10.00 each. I thought the price was reasonable and got one of each. Mitch bought the rifle cleaning kit. 

Their gun prices were also reasonable. Unfortunately, I didn't see any that I would interested in buying.

Here's what I got:

Merry Christmas!

 

Merry Christmas to all!

Tomorrow is going to be possibly tricky when I head home. There is a chance (about 20%) of snow showers when I drive through the Flagstaff area on I-40. Well, I'll deal with that when the time comes.

Merry Christmas Eve!

Above, ah, morning coffee!

The sun isn't up yet, even though it is almost 7:00 in the morning in Lake Havasu City. It is still dark outside.

After a shave and shower in the motorhome, I had my usual orange juice and oatmeal breakfast so I could take my meds.

Now I am relaxing with some fresh brewed coffee. 

Today, I will be doing a little shopping for this evening's "Secret Santa" game at Mitch and Holly Geriminsky's. It is a Christmas Eve tradition there.

It was a long drive from Jamestown, New Mexico to Lake Havasu City, Arizona. My stamina isn't what it used to be so I took some coffee and other rest breaks along the way. The first was at the main gate to Petrified Forest National Park. At around 200 miles, Flagstaff is the mid point of the drive.

The weather along the way wasn't bad.

I did notice that the Meteor City Trading Post looked cleaned up with the structures having a fresh coat of paint. The new owners are making progress. Maybe it will be opening for business again in the coming year.

In case I forget, Merry Christmas!

Jim Hambrick, R.I.P.

Above, Jim Hambrick in his younger days. Photo from the Super Museum Facebook page.

Sad news arrived before I left for Christmas in Lake Havasu. 

Super Museum founder Jim Hambrick passed away Sunday at age 70.

According to WPSD:

METROPOLIS, Ill. — Longtime Superman collector and founder of the Superman Museum in Metropolis, Jim Hambrick died on Sunday, Dec. 22, at 70 years old. But his family and community members say his lasting impact will survive for decades to come.

Hambrick died from heart complications after suffering a heart attack in 2016. His daughter, Morgan Siebert, said since his heart attack in 2016, Hambrick grew weaker. However, she said running the museum improved his morale, and it gave him purpose to keep it open for travelers and the Metropolis community. 

Hambrick grew up in Los Angeles and moved to Metropolis in March 1993. His passion for Superman and collecting started when he received his first Superman lunch box at 5-years-old. Siebert said over the years, he became interested in buying comic books and collectibles. When Hambrick reached 19-years-old, he was known as the world's famous Superman collector.

Hambrick's favorite portrayal of Superman is by actor George Reeves.

Above, the Super Museum in 2016. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I visited the Super Museum in 2016 when I attended Noel Neill's memorial service in Metropolis, Illinois.

Above, the Kirk Alyn autographed photo I obtained at Hambrick's
exhibit at Chapman College. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I first met Hambrick around 1982 when he had a traveling Superman memorabilia show, which included an authentic George Reeves Superman costume, at Chapman College (now Chapman University) in Orange County, California. With Hambrick was the original live-action Superman actor, Kirk Alyn. I obtained Alyn's autograph at the exhibit. This was before his move to Metropolis and the founding of the Super Museum.

Above, a George Reeves color Superman costume
at the Super Museum. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

His passing is a big loss to Superman fandom. Thanks to his family, the museum will continue.

To read more, go here.

Why You Should Avoid These RV Brands

Buying an RV is a big investment.

Since the pandemic, many brands have had workmanship issues along with subpar materials. None have escaped the list by MSN on the RV brands what one should avoid. Even top line brands like Airstream, Winnebago, Newmar and Tiffin made the list. 

Not surprisingly, brands under the Thor wing (such as Forest River) made the list several times. RVers who have been around know that Thor makes POS rigs. Many states don't cover RVs in their lemon laws.

If I were to advise anyone on buying an RV, I would recommend getting a pre-pandemic used one. Inspect it before buying.

MSN provides their list in a photo slide show. 

They begin with:

Buying a poor-quality RV brand can quickly turn a trip sour. Marshall Wendler, cofounder of Camp Addict, doesn’t like a beginner’s chances: “I don't have any specific input on the worst RV brand. In fact, they are the majority of RV brands out there,” Wendler says. “Throw a dart at the wall.” With advice from Wendler and other RVers who love to talk rigs, here’s what we’ve learned from the experts about brands that you should probably steer clear of if you're looking to buy or rent an RV. 

To see the slide show, go here. 

50% Chance of A White Christmas

Above, snow in Jamestown in 2020. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I just checked the National Weather Service website for the week's weather in Jamestown, New Mexico.

Tuesday Night

A slight chance of rain showers after 11pm, mixing with snow after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 29. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Christmas Day

A chance of rain and snow showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 43. Chance of precipitation is 50%

They forecast a 50% chance of snow showers on Christmas Day. That's fine with me as I will be in Lake Havasu during that time with friends.  

At present, my only concern is my return trip home. I have to drive through Flagstaff, Arizona on Interstate 40 and they could see snow during that time. 

Half of Retail Traders Expect Silver To Trade Above $40/oz In 2025

Above, Morgan and Peace silver dollars. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those of us who are investors of silver, 2024 has been a good year. 

Currently, silver's COMEX spot price is at $30/toz. This is much better than when 2024 began when silver's spot price was at $23.639/toz.

What will happen in 2025? Some traders speculate we may see a silver spot price of $40/toz.

In any case, Kitco News took a look at silver's performance over the past year and what can be (possibly) expected next year.

Here's a snippet:

By late August, spot silver was once again testing resistance at $30 per ounce, and after an early September pullback saw the gray metal dip below $28, this was followed by a strong rally that saw spot silver break decisively above $30 per ounce on September 12. 

The $30 level was now acting as support for the gray metal, which quickly moved up to $32 by September 23, and after retesting support just above $30 per ounce on October 8, spot silver set what proved to be the annual high of $35 per ounce on October 21. After a brief dip down to the $33.600 range, the spot price once again rose back above $34 per ounce, topping out at $34.442 on October 28th, the last time silver would see trade above $34.   

84 retail traders, fully 48%, expect silver to trade above $40 per ounce next year, with $48 the all-time high set in March 2011.

To read the full article, go here. 

The Best Lever Action Rifles

Above, yours truly with the Winchester 94 bought in 2019. Photo by Larry Lucier.

Until 2019, I had not owned a lever-action rifle. I've wanted one, more so during my retirement years, but hadn't gotten one until I found a 1962 vintage Winchester 94 (or Winchester 1894) in .30-30 Winchester for sale at an Albuquerque gun store I was browsing in.  

It was the model I was looking for and it was in great shape and the price was reasonable (just under $500). Most importantly, it was a pre-64. So I bought it.

Now, it seems everyone else are looking at lever-action rifles these days. Some say they've made a resurgence in popularity. 

One may ask, What are the best lever-action rifles?

Outdoor Life had posted an article by John B. Snow answering that very question earlier this year. It is a mix of new lever-actions being produced along with the classics. It is no surprise that the Winchester 94 made the list.

It begins with:

When I was a kid, there were three reasons I wanted a lever action rifle. First, they were cool. Second, because I grew up just outside New Haven, Conn., the historic home to Marlin and Winchester, they were my hometown guns. Third, they were cheap.

Only one of these things is still true. Lever guns always have been and always will be cool, though they will never again be cheap, nor—barring divine intervention—will they ever again be produced in Gun Valley.

Writing about the top lever action rifles is a bit tricky. Do you focus on the best of all time, which is a great for us nostalgic sorts, or do you talk about great lever action rifles that you can buy new? (Though given some of the lingering shortages, it might be more accurate to say the lever guns you can put yourself on a waiting listing for.)

I tilted this list of the best lever action rifles in favor of those you can order new. Though if you have a hankering for one of the old-time classics, there are plenty to be had on the used market. Just don’t expect to find any bargains. Nearly all quality lever actions command a premium.

To read more, go here. 

Congress Passes Bill To Rescind Need For Filming Permit In National Parks

Above, Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Two days ago, I posted about two photographers who filed suit against the National Park Service over the requirement to have a permit to film or photograph commercially in Grand Teton National Park.

As luck would have it, a bill rescinding that permit requirement for national parks has passed the congress and is headed to His Fraudulency Joe Biden's desk for signature.

National Parks Traveler reported:

In a big win for filmmakers, a provision in the EXPLORE Act, passed yesterday [Thursday] by the Senate and headed for President Biden's desk soon, eliminates the need for photographers and videographers to secure permits to film, even for commercial purposes, in national parks.

This comes just a day after a lawsuit challenging the NPS ban on commercial photography in the parks was filed by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) a conservative-leaning free speech advocacy group, on behalf of adventure filmmakers Alexander Rienzie and Connor Burkesmith. Rienzie and Burkesmith were attempting to film an attempt to set the FKT for ascending the Grand Teton earlier this fall and were refused a permit. The National Press Photographers Association joined the lawsuit. 

To read more, go here. 

EPA Backs California's RV-Killing Plan

Above, Class A motorhomes at the California RV Show. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Thank God that Donald Trump won the election. 

This week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) backed Commiefornia's plan to enforce new and RV-killing regulations by the California Air Resources Board.

Once the Trump is inaugurated on January 20, many loony regulations will likely be rescinded.

RV Travel reported:

This week the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) granted California approval to move forward on two regulations. If the EPA puts the California waivers in place, they are sure to hit RVers hard. These regulations are in addition to the rule that some say would effectively ban new motorhome sales. Tow a car? Pull your trailer with a pickup? Hang on, these other regulations will put the brakes on. By 2035, sales of these vehicles, if not “zero emissions,” will be turned off in California—and other states across the country.

To read more, go here. 

Monument Valley: Navajo Culture And Old West Hollywood History

Above, the West and East Mittens. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since 2016, I have been to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park three times. The first was part of my cross-country trip to Metropolis, Illinois.

Each time, I've done something different. During my first visit, I took a two-hour afternoon tour. On My second visit, I took a sunrise tour. Then, three months ago, I did some horseback riding. 

Above, the Sun's Eye. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Monument Valley is only a few hours away from home and I have enjoyed it each time I've been there.

Only In Your State posted a photo collection of what visitors can see in Monument Valley.

They begin with:

Welcome to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. This area of Utah was originally settled by Puebloan peoples, who lived here for 1,000 years,hunting and growing crops until roughly 1250 A.D.

 

Above, inside a Navajo hogan. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To see the photographs, go here.

Cost-Effective Towns In New Mexico For Retirees

Above, the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Rodeo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The cost of living in New Mexico was much better before the Biden Administration took office in 2021. Still, the state is much cheaper than in California where I moved from.

WorldAtlas has posted a list of eight cost-effective town in New Mexico for retirees.

Gallup is included in the list. I live 18 miles east of it.

The article starts with:

Move over, Florida, because New Mexico is becoming the go-to retirement destination! The temperate climate, lower taxes, and stunning blend of mountains and plateaus puts this Western state on the map for one of the best places to spend your golden years. These towns offer all the benefits of living in the Land of Enchantment but with a much lower cost of living. So, if you’re looking for the perfect spot to settle down and live life to the fullest, these 8 cost-effective New Mexico towns will help you live the good life without draining your 401k!

Here's what they posted about Gallup:

The Old West is still alive and well in Gallup! With its vintage shops along the tree-lined streets and friendly locals, it won’t take you long to become a local here. With an average home price of around $239,000 and the cost of living 22 percent lower than the national average, it’s a surprisingly affordable town to call home. Everything seniors need can be found downtown, from highly rated hospitals like Rehoboth Mckinley Christian Health Care Services to the RMCHCS Rehabilitation and Wellness Center.

Take in the magnificent beauty of Red Rock Park and hike the accessible trails that take you through red rock canyons and rock formations, where you can even catch a glimpse of Fort Wingate in the distance. Gallup is also near the Zuni Mountains in Cibola National Forest. There, you can hike over 25 miles of rolling plateaus and flowering meadows. With its senior-friendly facilities, affordability, and natural wonders, there are so many reasons to pick Gallup as your forever home.

To read more, go here. 

Flagstaff May Get Snow Christmas Day

Above, I-40 near Williams on December 28, 2019. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It looks like Flagstaff, Arizona may be getting some rain and snow showers starting Tuesday night (Christmas Eve). 

From the National Weather Service for Flagstaff: 

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 26. North wind 3 to 5 mph.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 56. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 16 mph.

Tuesday Night

A slight chance of rain and snow showers between 11pm and 3am, then a slight chance of snow showers after 3am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Southwest wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Christmas Day

A slight chance of rain and snow showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. West wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 17 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Fortunately for me, I will have driven past Flagstaff before the storm arrives and will already be in Lake Havasu.

I checked Jamestown, New Mexico's weather for next week first and noted that a 30% chance of snow showers is forecast for Christmas Day. 

The weather should be okay for the drive home after Christmas. 

Grandpa’s 30-30 Ammunition

Above, new .30-30 Winchester (left) and traditional. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

First introduced to the gun-buying market in 1895, the .30-30 Winchester cartridge revolutionized ammunition.

It is the first small-bore sporting rifle cartridge designed for smokeless powder.

But, is it relevant today? According to an article and two videos in Ammoland.com, new technology has given it new life and fans. I have purchased some new (introduced around 2005) Hornady .30-30 LEVERevolution ammo, but haven't shot any yet.

They begin with:

Nostalgic. Old-school. Underpowered. The 30-30 gets called a lot of things, but new technology and a rabid fan base are breathing new life into this venerable round.

Does Grandpa’s 30-30 Winchester still have the juice to get the job done by today’s cartridge standards? Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn hit the range to find out. They fire three loadings – one old and two new. Will they be impressed or let down by the results. The gel blocks, an old rifle, a few shells, and these fine gentlemen tell the tale in this episode of — Cartridge Talks.

In this episode, Mark and Ryan put this new technology to the test, compare it to traditional rounds, and answer the question, “Is Grandpa’s 30-30 better than ever?”

To see the videos and read the rest of the article, go here. 

Albuquerque International Sunport Unveils New Food Court

KOB Channel 4 News posted the following video of the new eateries at the Albuquerque Sunport.

It looks like travelers will get more choices for food while at the airport.

Unfortunately, the Rio Grande Brew Pub will not be back. According to sources, it is permanently closed. It was there that I discovered Alien Amber Ale.

Here's the video:

Photographers Sue Over National Park Filming Permits

Above, Grand Teton National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Did you know that if you are just a tourist or a news organization, you don't need a permit to photograph or shoot videos within our national parks? But if you are doing so commercially, you need a permit.

That is the crux of a new lawsuit against the National Park Service by two commercial photographers. They claim that the permit requirement violates their First Amendment rights.

According to PetaPixel:

Two photographers have sued the National Park Service (NPS) claiming that its photography permit requirements violate First Amendment rights.

Nature and sports photographers Alexander Rienzie and Connor Burkesmith filed the lawsuit against NPS, with the aim of overturning its “unconstitutional permit-and-fee scheme that charges Americans for the right to film in public spaces.”

According to the lawsuit, Rienzie and Burkesmith wanted to film athlete Michelino Sunseri’s attempt to break the record for the fastest climb up the Grand Teton in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming in September.

The filmmakers planned to have only two or three people, using small handheld cameras and tripods, on the 16-mile route for the shoot — less gear than the typical climber going up the mountain.

Under current law, the NPS does not require everyday visitors or news photographers to have film or photography permits.

To read more, go here. 

Japan Foreign Visitors Top 33 Million In January-November

Above, Tokyo Tower as seen from Roppongi Hills. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

A new record was set in the number of foreign visitors to Japan in January to November of 2024.

According to Kyodo News:

The number of foreign visitors to Japan topped 33 million from January to November, setting a new annual record, driven by a tourism boom and a weak yen, government estimates showed Wednesday.

The total stood at 33,379,900, surpassing the previous full-year high of 31.88 million set in 2019, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization.

In November alone, foreign visitors rose 30.6 percent year-on-year to 3.18 million. Each month this year has recorded at least 30 percent growth compared with the same period last year.

With airline routes to Japan recovering to 2019 levels, November visitor numbers were further boosted by increased demand during the fall foliage season.

To read more, go here. 

American Rifleman: "We Are Peanut"

The January 2025 issue of American Rifleman arrived in the mailbox yesterday.

The issue has many good articles, but one caught my attention: "An Unlikely Hero". It is the story of the gray squirrel and racoon named Peanut (or P'Nut) and Fred. It is definitely a must-read. 

A Texas whistleblower named Monica Keasler New York's State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and their thugs acted like stormtroopers when they confiscated the innocent animals. She reportedly bragged about it.

The article compares their tragic ends at the hands of bureaucrats when they were confiscated and killed  (to allegedly test them for rabies) and gun owners. The article asks, "How often we seen harmless violations of bureaucratic requirements [...] escalated to the point where livelihoods, freedoms or even lives were unnecessarily lost?"

The outrage by people to this incident possibly added to Donald Trump's victory margin, it is said.

When it comes to tyranny by government bureaucrats, "We are Peanut."

Americans Want Leaders and Judges Who Strictly Follow The Second Amendment

Above, the firearms department of the Albuquerque Cabela's. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It is often said that the political party who best reflects the views of the voters will win.

That is especially true when it comes to the Second Amendment. President Trump's campaign pollster has found that Americans want leaders and judges who strictly follow the Second Amendment.

The Reload reported:

The company that ran President-elect Donald Trump’s polling operation has released a new poll showing widespread support for judges and politicians to prioritize gun rights.

The poll, conducted by McLaughlin and Associates and sponsored by the Second Amendment Foundation, was released on Tuesday. It found 77 percent of voters agree it’s “important” that federal judge appointments make it “a priority to try their best to strictly follow the 2nd Amendment.” Another 76 percent said it’s “important” for national political leaders to “protect and defend the 2nd Amendment Rights.” Fewer than 20 percent of respondents said neither was important to them.

“Americans continue to cherish their Second Amendment Rights as the results of our recent national survey clearly show,” Jim McLaughlin, CEO of the polling firm, said in a statement.

Additionally, the poll found 63 precent expect Trump to prioritize protecting their gun rights and 59 percent believe Republicans will do a better job protecting those rights than Democrats.

To read more, go here. 

Top 6 Lever Action Rifles of All Time (Video)

 Top 6 Lever Action Rifles of All Time

Summary: 

In today’s video, we’re diving into the top 6 most iconic lever action rifles of all time. From the legendary rifles that shaped the American Wild West to modern designs offering superior precision and functionality, this is the list no lever action enthusiast should miss!