Two Buildings Catch Fire In Oatman, Arizona

Above, the Olive Oatman Restaurant & Saloon was reportedly
one of the buildings involved in the fire. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Two buildings caught fire last night in historic Oatman, Arizona.

The Mojave Valley Daily News reported:

OATMAN — A fire broke out in Oatman late Thursday night according to initial scanner traffic and on-scene personnel. As of 8:15 a.m. Friday morning, firefighting units were still on scene to handle flare-ups.

The fire was initially reported at 9:52 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at the historic Oatman Hotel, but later reports indicated the fire is actually located at the Olive Oatman Restaurant & Saloon. Another building is also reportedly involved, but it was unclear which building as of 11:30 p.m. on Thursday night. 

According to Mohave Valley Fire Department Chief Ted Martin, the fire was through the roof of one of the buildings as of 11:36 p.m., and crews are trying to contain it to that building.

As of 12:53 a.m. personnel on scene reported via the scanner that they believed the fire was under control and contained to the building of origin, but the fire was still considered to be active, with all crews remaining on scene.

To read more, go here. 

UPDATE:

The Oatman General Store was reported as the second building involved in the fire.

Time Out: Guide To Hakone

Above, a boat cruise on Lake Ashi. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 2004, the first G-TOUR to Japan took place. It was sponsored by G-FAN magazine. 60 Godzilla/Daikaiju Eiga fans went on the tour.

One of the stops (an overnighter) was Hakone. The stop included Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi and a fireworks show at Lake Kawaguchi.

Time Out Tokyo has posted a guide to Hakone, with the best things to see and do.

They begin with:

The mountainous town of Hakone lies about an hour and a half by train from Tokyo, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway from the capital. It has had a long and illustrious tradition as a hot spring town – its name even appears in Edo-era (1603-1868) rankings of Japan’s best onsen.

But Hakone is about much more than just bathing. It’s got everything from superb art museums to an active volcano, as well as a jaw-dropping view of Mt Fuji on clear days. These are our top picks of things to do and see around the area, from central Hakone-Yumoto and beautiful Lake Ashi to posh but relaxed Gora, which is still one of the most in-demand neighbourhoods for moneyed Tokyo folks looking for a second home.

To see the guide, go here. 

14 Kinds of People Who Should Never Go On A Cruise

Above, if you hate crowds and lines, don't go on a cruise. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Travel, by differing means, is something that isn't "one size, fits all". One person may love taking cruises (I have a friend who is a cruise fanatic he will be taking one solo soon), another may be totally repelled by the idea.

I fall somewhere in the middle. 

MSN has a slideshow article (from January) on 14 kinds of people who should never go on a cruise.

They begin it with:

With a new year approaching, it's natural to start dreaming of our next vacations. Cruises can be a budget-friendly choice for vacationers who want to unpack once and relax, and veteran cruisers know all sorts of tips and tricks to make their trips smooth sailing. The industry has clawed its way back after the pandemic brought it to its knees. Still, cruises can be an acquired taste, and some travelers may simply be better off as landlubbers. 

Here are 14 kinds of people who might want to think twice before booking a voyage on the high seas. 

To see more, go here. 

12 Cruise Myths That People Still Believe

Above, yours truly enjoying a cigar and cocktail during a cruise to the Bahamas.

There are some myths pertaining to cruises that seem to persist. Many people still believe them.

While taking a cruise isn't my preferred means of travel (RV road trips are), I have enjoyed the three cruises I've taken. A friend is such a cruise fanatic, he is about to go on one solo. The destination(s) have to be of strong interest to me to make me want to go. I've always wanted to go the the Bahamas, so I went on one there last summer.

MSN has listed 12 myths that people still believe in a slideshow.

They begin with:

Unlike other travel methods that are focused on getting to your destination quickly, cruising can seem like an expensive waste of time. The key is to view the cruise ship as a destination in and of itself that offers luxurious rooms, incredible restaurants, exotic scenery, and endless activities. This perspective can turn skeptics into enthusiastic cruisers. Let’s debunk 12 common cruise myths to ensure you wisely consider all of your vacation options.

 To read more, go here.

Pending Home Sales Tumble To Record Low

Above, the home I bought in New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When I bought my home in New Mexico seven years ago, I couldn't have timed it better.

The price was way under $100,000 for the house on two acres. I bought it outright without the need of a mortgage loan.

Since then, prices have risen and so has the mortgage lending rate, hovering around 7%.

According to Newmax, pending home sales tumbled to a record low last month.

They begin their article with:

Contracts to buy U.S. previously owned homes plunged to a record low in January as higher mortgage rates and house prices reduced affordability for prospective buyers.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) said Thursday its Pending Home Sales Index, based on signed contracts, dropped 4.6% last month to 70.6, an all-time low.

Economists polled by Reuters had forecast contracts, which become sales after a month or two, falling 1.3% in January. Pending home sales decreased 5.2% from a year earlier.

"It is unclear if the coldest January in 25 years contributed to fewer buyers in the market, and if so, expect greater sales activity in upcoming months," said Lawrence Yun, the NAR's chief economist. "However, it's evident that elevated home prices and higher mortgage rates strained affordability."

Signed contracts fell in the Midwest, South and West, but rose slightly in the Northeast.

To read more, go here. 

Concerning Fort Knox

This was posted by Elon Musk within the hour:

 

pic.twitter.com/yrClmRrmiP

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 28, 2025

Cruise Ship Minimum Age Policy For Solo Bookings

Above, the pool deck of the Norwegian Sky. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Spring break is just around the corner. With that, students of high school and college ages will be planning travel during the break.

When it comes to cruises, high schoolers and some college-age students face age restrictions on cruise lines, particularly for solo travelers.

That's the topic of an article from ABC News.

They begin with:

As families and young people prepare for spring break and summer travel, cruise lines' policies on the minimum age for travel from the United States have the potential to impact their plans.

For some cruise lines, 18 is the minimum age to travel solo, while others require solo travelers to be at least 21 years old, with some exceptions.

Ahead of spring break and summer travel, here is what to know about four major cruise lines' age policies.

To read further, go here. 

Grants Today

Above, Loeffler's Guns Etc. in Grants, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Today seems like today's weather will be decent enough for my drive to Grants today. I have an appointment with my cardiologist there for my annual check-up.

The temperature will be around 54° with 15 mph winds. 

Since it will be an afternoon appointment, I will likely have dinner at a Mexican restaurant, El Cafecito, in town. 

I may also stop in at Loeffler's Guns Etc. while in town to browse around. It is one of the better gun stores in the region.

Plan the Perfect RV Spring Break Road Trip

Above, a springtime camping trip to Yosemite National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Spring is about a month away. For those who are tired of being stuck within the four walls, it is a good time to plan a springtime RV trip. My own next camping trip will be in April.

That is the topic of an article in RV Life.   

It begins with: 

The end of winter is the perfect time of year to get a jump on planning spring RV road trips. The key to the success of any road trip lies in having a good basic plan. With that being said, being flexible with destinations and routes is a good idea, too. After all, a lot can happen between now and spring. However, if we map out a basic plan at this stage, we can always make adjustments as the time gets closer and even when we’re on the road. Even though there’s still snow on the ground in many places, the most popular campgrounds will be opening up campsite reservations in the coming weeks. In this article we’ll walk you through everything you’ll need to do to plan a perfect road trip.

To read more, go here. 

Gene Hackman Found Dead

Above, Gene Hackman in 1972,

Actor Gene Hackman, his wife and dog were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home. Foul play is not suspected according to reports.

Their passing sounds like, to me, a case of accidental carbon monoxide asphyxiation. I had a family member who died by carbon monoxide asphyxiation. I don't know if this is the case, but based upon the initial reports, it sounds like it. Or, a possible gas leak. I'm just speculating.

Fox News reported:

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman was found dead alongside his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, and their dog in their Santa Fe home on Wednesday afternoon.

Hackman was 95 at the time of his death and his wife 63. The office confirmed that foul play is not suspected as a factor in the deaths at this time, but the cause of death has not been determined. 

"On February 26, 2025 at approximately 1:45 p.m., Santa Fe County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to an address on Old Sunset Trail in Hyde Park where Gene Hackman, 95 and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 64, and a dog were found deceased," the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office told Fox News Digital early Thursday morning. 

Hackman was best known for his Oscar-winning performances in "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven."

I saw Hackman one year at the Long Beach Grand Prix. He was in the garage area of the event talking to some people. This was in the mid-1980s.

To read more, go here. 

Remembering Michelle Trachtenberg

Back in the late 1990s, my favorite television show was Buffy The Vampire Slayer, starring Sarah Michelle Gellar.

Later in the show's run, the character Dawn Summers, was introduced. She was played by Michelle Trachtenberg. She immediately became a fan favorite. 

In tribute, here's my favorite scene featuring Trachtenberg:

Grand Canyon National Park 106th Anniversary

Above, the Grand Canyon with the Colorado River flowing through. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Today in history, President Woodrow Wilson signed the bill establishing Grand Canyon National Park in northern Arizona.

From the Grand Canyon National Park Facebook page:

Today marks the 106th anniversary of Congress establishing Grand Canyon National Park - in order to preserve and protect one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Over the past century, the National Park Service has worked tirelessly to protect the park's resources, to maintain trails and facilities, and to make Grand Canyon accessible to millions of visitors from all around the globe.

Above, our campsite at Trailer Village RV Park at the South Rim. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It is hard to believe that we've reached 106 years. I bought a commemorative coffee mug for the 100th anniversary.

I have been to the Grand Canyon's South Rim several times and the North Rim in 1972. I was last at Grand Canyon National Park in 2017 and stayed at Trailer Village RV Park at the South Rim. 

AI Video of Trump Gaza Resort

 

AI video shows resort-like future for Gaza complete with golden Trump https://t.co/oWuwX9Qsyb pic.twitter.com/jJNfWB08Y8

— New York Post (@nypost) February 26, 2025

Woman Pleads Guilty In Graceland Scam

Above, Elvis Presley's Graceland mansion. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

On the heals of the passing of Lisa Marie Presley, a Missouri woman tried to defraud the Presley Family and take possession of Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee.

Fortunately, the scheme was foiled and now the woman has plead guilty to a count of mail fraud.

From Billboard:

A Missouri woman has pleaded guilty to mail fraud for her role in an alleged scam to steal the Elvis Presley family’s ownership interest in the famed Graceland mansion.

Lisa Jeanine Findley, who has gone by various aliases including Lisa Holden and Lisa Howell, initially pleaded not guilty to mail fraud and aggravated identity theft last year. But during a hearing before a Memphis federal judge on Tuesday (Feb. 25), Findley agreed to plead guilty to one count of mail fraud. According to court documents, the other charge — a count of aggravated identity theft — will be dismissed as part of the plea deal.

Findley was arrested in August on the charges, with prosecutors alleging she posed as three different people affiliated with a fake company named Naussany Investments & Private Lending to claim that Presley’s daughter, the late Lisa Marie Presley, had utilized the music legend’s Memphis, Tenn., home as collateral for a $3.8 million loan she had failed to repay. Findley also allegedly falsified loan documents and forged the signatures of both Lisa Marie and a notary public in order to file a false deed of trust with the Shelby County Register’s Office, as well as a false creditor’s claim with the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles.

To read more, go here. 

Hooters Considering Possible Bankruptcy

Above, Shinichi Wakasa, Steve Ryfle and (late) Richard Pusateri at the Santa Monica
 Hooters following an American Film Market screening. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Hooters, the restaurant chain that features attractive and well-endowed waitresses, is considering filing bankruptcy, likely Chapter 11.

A group of us used to go to the Santa Monica Hooters following Godzilla movie screenings (at Toho Co., Ltd.'s invitation) at the American Film Market.

According to Fox Business:

A bankruptcy filing could potentially be on the menu for Hooters of America in the near future.

The company is looking at possibly filing for bankruptcy as a means of restructuring the restaurant chain and tackling its debt, Bloomberg reported Friday, citing unnamed sources.

Ropes & Gray has reportedly been brought on board for preparations for that potential move and, according to the outlet, they could file court papers on Hooters’ behalf in the coming two months to kick off the restructuring if the restaurant chain decides to take that step. 

To read more, go here. 

Illegals: Message Received

 

“President Trump and Secretary Noem have sent a clear message to illegal aliens: do not come to our country. You will not be allowed in. And if you get in, we will hunt you down and deport you,” DHS said. “That message has been received.”https://t.co/zwnKhtD2QX pic.twitter.com/DaDe9uOPMu

— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) February 25, 2025

Colorado Leftists Pass Gun Ban

The Rocky Mountain version of Commiefornia, i.e., Colorado, has passed anti-gun bills that will ban some rifles, handguns and shotguns. 

The American Thinker reported:

Now, the People’s Republic of Colorado has passed an anti-liberty/gun law that couldn’t be a clearer violation of the Second Amendment. The bill passed the state Senate on a 19-15 party line vote and went to the House where D/s/cs hold a 43-22 majority. The House quickly passed it and Governor Jared Polis is expected to sign it. The bill bans many of the most usual, common and popular American arms:

The bill defines a “specified semiautomatic firearm” as a semiautomatic rifle or semiautomatic shotgun with a detachable magazine or a gas-operated semiautomatic handgun with a detachable magazine. The bill prohibits knowingly manufacturing, distributing, transferring, selling, or purchasing a specified semiautomatic firearm; except that a person may transfer a specified semiautomatic firearm to an heir, an individual residing in another state, or a federally licensed firearm dealer.

The language is purposely vague. All semiautomatic handguns are arguably “gas-operated,” allowing Colorado to restrict Coloradans to revolvers. The only currently manufactured semiautomatic handgun that might escape is KelTec’s ingenious new PR57 which has no detachable magazine and loads its twenty 5.7X28mm rounds from stripper clips. Apparently, Colorado D/s/c legislators aren’t aware of that one, but they'll surely include it later.  

Clearly, the bill is unconstitutional, illegal. Colorado’s D/s/c legislators know this, and know they’ll have to spend untold millions of taxpayer dollars to defend a law that will inevitably be struck down. They also know it will take years for the case to reach the Supreme Court, which may or may not grant cert, waiting for another or more similar cases to become “ripe” before considering their issues. This could leave Colorado’s law on the books for at least two years, giving law enforcement officers not burdened by consciences or fidelity to the Constitution an opening to harass and arrest the law-abiding. It will also give equally unscrupulous judges the ability to fine and imprison gun owners for exercising their Second Amendment rights.

To read more, go here. 

Nice Day For A Drive

Above, during today's drive. I was over at the corral and entrance to Six Mile Canyon.

Yesterday was very spring-like where the weather was concerned.

It reached the mid-60s and, better yet, very little wind. That was good enough for me to get the Jeep out of the garage and do some recreational driving.

After I was done driving, I took the opportunity to start the mini-bike and the mower. I ran both for a while, especially the mower to charge up its battery.

Above, back home with a cup of coffee.

When that was finished, I headed in and poured myself a cup of coffee and relaxed on the deck. 

Today's weather conditions is forecast to be much the same.  

Clint Hill, R.I.P.

Above, Clint Hill at Book Passage in 2016. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Clint Hill, the sole Secret Service Agent who acted during the assassination of President Kennedy, passed away at home on February 21. He was 93.

His wife, Lisa McCubbin, made the announcement this morning: 

In June 2016, I attended a book signing and discussion by Mr. Hill at Book Passage in Corte Madera, California. It was a well attended event and I was able to get some autographed books from Mr. Hill and Miss McCubbin. 

Above, Clint Hill and Lisa McCubbin at Book Passage. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Here is a video I recorded of Mr. Hill's talk: 

I have sent Lisa McCubbin my condolences. 

Trump and Musk To Visit Fort Knox

Cue up the main theme from Goldfinger...

  

 

Dan Bongino Picked As FBI Deputy Director

Above, Dan Bongino. Photo by Gage Skidmore.

This is great news as far as I am concerned!

From AOL/Associated Press:

FILE - Conservative commentator Dan Bongino speaks at the Conservative Political Action Committee annual conference in National Harbor, Md., March 6, 2014. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON (AP) — Dan Bongino, a former U.S. Secret Service agent who has penned best-selling books, ran unsuccessfully for office and gained fame as a conservative pundit with TV shows and a popular podcast, has been chosen to serve as FBI deputy director.

President Donald Trump announced the appointment Sunday night in a post on his Truth Social platform, praising Bongino as “a man of incredible love and passion for our Country.” He called the announcement “great news for Law Enforcement and American Justice.” 

I am a follower of Bongino for several years on Twitter (now X) and Facebook.

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, we have Donovan Leitch, better known as Donovan with a couple of his hits, "Hurdy Gurdy Man" from 1968 and "I Like You" from 1973's Cosmic Wheels album.

From Wikipedia: 

Donovan Phillips Leitch (born 10 May 1946), known mononymously as Donovan, is a Scottish musician, songwriter and record producer. He emerged from the British folk scene in early 1965 and subsequently scored multiple international hit singles and albums during the late 1960s. His work became emblematic of the flower power era with its blend of folk, pop, psychedelica and jazz stylings.

Donovan first achieved recognition with live performances on the pop TV series Ready Steady Go! in 1965. Having signed with Pye Records that year, he recorded singles and two albums in the folk vein for Hickory Records, scoring three UK hit singles: "Catch the Wind", "Colours" and "Universal Soldier", the last written by Buffy Sainte-Marie. He then signed to CBS/Epic in the US and became more successful internationally, beginning a long collaboration with British record producer Mickie Most. In September 1966, "Sunshine Superman" topped America's Billboard Hot 100 chart for one week and went to No. 2 in Britain, followed by "Mellow Yellow" at US No. 2 in December 1966, then 1968's "Hurdy Gurdy Man" in the top 5 in both countries and then "Atlantis", which reached US No. 7 in May 1969. The compilation Donovan's Greatest Hits was released in March 1969 and peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200.

 

Durango Train Schedule For 2025 Released

Above, the Durango train at High Line with the Animas River 400 feet below. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Although we're near the end of February, it is time to plan one's summer vacation trip.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has announced their Summer 2025 schedule. There's several different train trips to choose from.

Above, the Durango train at the Durango Station. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

From the official website:

Embark on an Incredible Journey Through the San Juan Mountains

For a truly unforgettable step back in time, enjoy a leisurely trip to yesteryear riding 3 1/2 hours each way on this train while spending a nearly 2 hour layover in the historic mining town of Silverton to enjoy the sights, shopping, food, and libations that Silverton offers. We’ve been in continuous operation running trains on this 45-mile branch of the original Denver & Rio Grande Railway since 1882. Much of the scenery remains unchanged since those historic days. There’s no cell service or Wi-Fi throughout the Animas Canyon so you’ll be unplugged from the modern world. Soak in the views, listen as the steam whistle echoes through the canyon, hear the vintage locomotive work to pull the train up the grades. If you long to unwind and enjoy Colorado nature at its finest, this is the trip for you.

Above, the Durango train in Silverton. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Whatever excursion one chooses, it is a great ride. Who knows, one may even get to see Sasquatch!

To see the schedule and book a trip, go here. 

Monument Valley Visitor's Guide

Above, sunrise with the Mittens and Merrick Butte. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Where I live in Northwestern New Mexico provides me with easy access to scenic and historic places in the Four Corners region of the U.S.

One such place is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park that straddles the Utah and Arizona border. I have been to Monument Valley several times, twice since I moved to New Mexico. I have taken two guided tours of Monument Valley, most recently a sunrise tour from Goulding's Lodge. Last September, I did some horseback riding from the Monument Valley KOA.

Above, the tour vehicle at The Thumb. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who have never been there, Utah's Canyon Country website posted a Visitor's Guide to Monument Valley.

Here's a snippet from the guide:

Visiting Monument Valley

Straddling the border of Utah and Arizona, the magnificent allure of Monument Valley captivates visitors throughout the year. The giant sandstone formations that tower over the desert floor are unique structures you don’t see every day! They aren’t mere mountains, or canyons, or even just big rocks, but something totally different–they are monuments to the power of nature.

These formations have been given interesting names like Mittens, Elephant Butte, Totem Pole, and North Window. But describing them doesn’t do it justice. You need to visit Monument Valley yourself to truly appreciate this magical place!

The most ethereal moments in the valley are perhaps during sunrise and sunset. The play of light and shadow drenches the landscape in an otherworldly glow that compels professional photographers or weekend Instagrammers to capture the breathtaking vistas.

Above, at camp at Goulding's Lodge Campground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read the full visitor's guide, go here. 

How To Spot Fake Travel Agents and Cruise Scams

Above, a cruise ship docked at Freeport, Bahamas. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

There's an old saying about monetary transactions: Buyer Beware!

That about sums it up about scammers who victimize unwary travel and cruise customers. There are scams out there with people posing as travel agents. 

The Points Guy has posted an article on how to spot fake travel agents and cruise scams. 

It begins with:

When L. Williams chose to take a Caribbean cruise, she booked it with a travel agent employed by Carnival Cruise Line. Well, at least she thought she was booking with Carnival. It turns out the person who made her reservation wasn't a cruise consultant at all — he was a scammer.

Unfortunately, it would be five years before Williams discovered she'd lost $3,500 to that crook posing as a travel agent.

You read that right. Five years.

To read more, go here. 

7 Big Island Stays That Fit Every Style and Budget

Above, the Waikoloa Beach Hotel and Spa. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Nine years ago (has it already been that long ago?), I visited the Big Island of Hawaii. I stayed at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Hotel and Spa in Kona. 

While on the Big Island, I took a tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park by helicopter with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. We had to drive about 60 miles from Kona to Hilo to get to the Hilo airport to catch our helicopter flight. 

The Hawaii travel arrangements were provided by the Automobile Club of Southern California. 

AOL has posted an article on "7 Big Island Stays That Fit Every Style and Budget".

They begin it with:

The Big Island of Hawaii, officially named Hawaiʻi Island, is the largest and youngest of the main Hawaiian Islands. Famous for its volcanoes, landscapes, black sand beaches, and its diverse range of accommodations, it’s no surprise many tourists travel here year-round for the experience. Being twice the size of all the other Hawaiian Islands combined, covering 4,028 square miles (10,432 km²), there are quite a few places to stay. Kona or Hilo? Or is Waikoloa a better option? Are you interested in lava fields or waterfalls? This guide breaks down the 7 top places to stay on the Big Island to help you find the best location for your trip., 

To read more, go here.

Trump Administration Reverses National Park Job Cuts

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

When I first heard about the national parks job cuts by the Trump Administration, my immediate reaction was that of many others: a stupid idea.

Well, fortunately, the Administration has reversed itself on this.

According to RV Travel:

After threatening to cut thousands of jobs at National Parks, the Trump Administration has backed off following widespread protests. “I make just over $40,000 a year; scrape sh*t off toilets with a putty knife nearly every day,” Yosemite maintenance worker Ilek Chmura told the L.A. Times after he was notified his job was eliminated. “Somehow, I’m the target.

“We lost our whole custodial staff in this part of the park,” he explained. “That will impact what people see, and it will be embarrassing if people come to this site and see it’s just full of trash.”

In response to public outcry and a media campaign from outdoor enthusiasts, the administration has now reconsidered its plan to eliminate thousands of seasonal jobs at the National Park Service. Last month, seasonal employees — responsible for tasks like collecting fees, cleaning trails and restrooms, and assisting injured hikers — had their job offers rescinded for the 2025 season.

This week, a memo from the Department of the Interior stated the agency could hire 7,700 seasonal employees this year, up from about 6,300 in recent years.

To read more, go here. 

Young Adults Have Constitutional Rights

Do 18 to 20-year-olds have constitutional rights?

They do, according to a unanimous ruling by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.

America's 1st Freedom posted:

A panel of judges at the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, in a unanimous ruling, found that the federal ban on federal firearms licensees (FFLs) selling handguns to 18-to-20-year-old adults violates the Second Amendment.

In this ruling, the court noted that the “government argues that a limited ban on the purchase of handguns from FFLs is not an infringement on the Second Amendment rights, and in any event eighteen-to-twenty-year-olds are not among ‘the people.’” This panel of judges rejected this claim. The court next considered whether the government met its burden of historical analogues (under the U.S. Supreme Court’s Bruen decision). The court then found that the government had not found historical precedents to make this ban constitutional.

To read more, go here. 

Family’s Winchester Rifle Has Been Dropping Deer For A Century

Above, two Winchester 1894 rifles at the Billy the Kid Museum. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Here's a nice little human-interest story of a Winchester 1894 rifle that has been in one Wyoming family for a century.

It was posted by the Cowboy State Daily of Wyoming. 

It begins with:

When Bob Budd works the lever action on his model 1894 Winchester rifle, it runs as smoothly as it did a century ago. 

The worn metal and wood on the rifle tell the tale of countless hunting trips in Wyoming in all sorts of weather. Budd has no idea how many .25-35 Winchester cartridges have been fired in it, but it still shoots straight and true, he told Cowboy State Daily.

It's been in his family for about as long as Wyoming has been a state, for five generations. His grandfather and father killed their first deer with it, as did Budd and his two sons. 

So long as his family keeps taking good care of it, there’s no reason to think it won’t still be dropping deer a century from now. 

And for his family, it’s so much more than just a rifle, said Budd, who lives in Cheyenne, but has deep family roots in the Big Piney area. 

“I think it's a talisman. A rifle is a talisman for those of us who grew up in that culture,” he said. 

To read more, go here. 

Ian Fleming's Foundation Seems Pleased

The Ian Fleming Estate's publishers seems to be pleased with the Amazon MGM take-over. 

They issued this statement:

 

From Jack Rabbit Trading Post

The Jack Rabbit Trading Post (of St. Joseph, Arizona) posted this photo yesterday on their Facebook page:

 

I have been there several times but never noticed these seasonings. I'll have to get some the next time I go there.

Since my "honorary sister" is into bunnies, I sent the photo to her.

Spring-Like Weather

Above, yesterday after driving around. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The weather yesterday continued to be spring-like. It was comfortable enough to get the Jeep out of the garage for some driving. It had been over a week since I last did so.

The weather would have been perfect if not for the winds we had. 

It's going to be cooler today, with a high of 50° according to the National Weather Service.

Their forecast for the coming week:

Today

Mostly sunny, with a high near 50. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight

Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 54. Light and variable wind becoming northwest 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 22. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 59. Light west wind becoming northwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 31.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 65.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 31.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 66.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 60.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 25.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 62.

Amazon MGM Gains Creative Control of 007 Franchise

Above, my Daniel Craig autographed photo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This can't be good news.*

Even though Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have taken some heat in killing James Bond in No Time To Die, the announcement that they are giving Amazon MGM creative control over the franchise is being met by fans with shock and disapproval.

The main concern for fans of 007 is that Amazon MGM will run the franchise into the ground with poor quality movies as Disney did with the Star Wars franchise. The last Star Wars trilogy was shit.

Variety reported:

Amazon MGM Studios is set to take creative control of the James Bond franchise.

The shock announcement — which is sure to shake and, indeed, stir the industry — was made Thursday, alongside the news that long-time producers and custodians of 007, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, would be stepping back.

As per details of the historic agreement, Amazon MGM Studios, Wilson and Broccoli have formed a new joint venture to house the James Bond intellectual property rights. The three parties will remain co-owners of the iconic franchise but Amazon MGM will have creative control.

I have been a 007 fan ever since my parents to me to see a double-bill of Dr. No and From Russia With Love in 1963. 

To read more, go here.

*I hope I'm proven wrong.

NM: Take Action Against Gun Control Bills Today!

Above, the New Mexico State Capitol. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We're in the midst of the 2025 session of the New Mexico legislature. True to form, radical leftist Democrats have introduced bills that would, if enacted, endanger the Second Amendment rights of the state's citizens.

The NRA-ILA posted a "take action" article on two bills now before lawmakers.

They posted:

The New Mexico legislature is considering two significant bills that pose substantial threats to our Second Amendment rights: Senate Bill 279 and Senate Bill 318, which are expected to be heard before the Senate Judiciary committee in the coming days. It's critical that you get involved today by clicking the TAKE ACTION button to contact members of the Senate Judiciary Committee and urge their opposition to SB 279 & SB 318 today!

On Senate Bill 279, they wrote:

Senate Bill 279, known as the Gas-Operated Semiauto Firearms Exclusion Act, seeks to regulate and potentially prohibit the possession of a wide range of semiautomatic firearms commonly used by law-abiding citizens for recreation, hunting, self-defense, and competitive shooting.

On Senate Bill 318, they wrote:

Senate Bill 318 expands the New Mexico Unfair Practices Act to include firearms, parts, and accessories, imposing severe penalties of $250,000 per violation and holding manufacturers, distributors, and online platforms jointly liable for actions by third parties. It allows private lawsuits without proof of harm, subjects out-of-state and online sellers to New Mexico laws, and grants sweeping authority to the Attorney General to pursue civil penalties. 

New Mexico voters need to contact their representatives and urge them to defeat these bills.

To read more, go here. 

 

AZ Judge Tosses Lost or Stolen Guns Reporting Ordinance

Above, Pima County, Arizona.

An Arizona state judge tossed a criminal penalty ordinance by Pima County that fined people $1,000 for failing to report a lost or stolen gun within 48 hours. 

The ruling struck a blow against counties who violated pre-emption laws by the state. 

The Reload reported:

A state judge has ruled Pima County, Arizona, can’t fine residents $1,000 for failing to report lost or stolen guns within 48 hours.

On Tuesday, Arizona Superior Court Judge Greg Sakall ordered a permanent injunction against the county’s ordinance. He sided with gun-rights plaintiffs who argued the measure violated a state law designed to prevent localities from implementing their own gun restrictions. He even allowed plaintiffs to seek lawyer fees from the county.

“[T]he final judgment shall include a permanent injunction against the implementation or enforcement of Pima County Ordinance 2024-2,” Judge Sakall wrote in ACDL v. Pima County.

The ruling is a win for gun-rights activists who’ve sought to enforce pre-emption laws across the country. Consequently, it’s a setback for gun-control advocates who’ve looked to push the boundaries of those same laws. It may discourage other localities in states with similar laws from implementing similar lost and stolen reporting laws.

To read more, go here. 

Pre 64 Winchester 94 - Does It Really Matter (Videos)

 

7 Best Road Trips In The Southwest

Above, a sunrise view of the West Mitten in Monument Valley. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Decades before moving to New Mexico, I have always enjoyed traveling through the Southwest U.S., particularly in the Four Corners region. 

There's plenty of places to see and things to do.

Outside Magazine has posted a list of the seven best roadtrips in the Southwest.

They begin it with:

The Southwest always seems to me like a bit of a fever dream. The country’s deepest canyons, wildest buttes, and broadest deserts spread here from the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific Ocean, offering a landscape so unlike any other in the country, you might think you’ve left earth altogether. It is a hot, inhospitable territory that demands respect, but it is also outrageously beautiful, with rock outcroppings that seem painted in shades of red and white, blooming cacti, and shifting dunes that undulate like waves onto the horizon.

The easiest and most efficient way to explore the Southwest is by car, bouncing from one breathtaking adventure to the next, so I’ve created seven different road-trip itineraries, one in each state of this stunning slice of our nation. I’ve driven the majority of these routes, while the remaining few are on my list of dream adventures. And each of these has something for everyone—beaches, sand dunes, cliffs, rivers, hikes, bike rides, fishing holes, and more.

Set your playlist, and pack the sunscreen. Here are the seven best road trips in the Southwest.

To read more, go here. 

Federal Judge Blocks Maine’s Gun Waiting Period

Last May, the seven-day waiting period for gun sales in New Mexico went into effect. A lawsuit was filed against this new law, but was unsuccessful. Where is goes from here is up in the air. I haven't seen any appeals filed on it as yet. 

In anticipation of the new law, I bought a Winchester Model 12 shotgun a month before.

However, gun rights activists were pleased in the state of Maine when a 72-hour waiting period was blocked by a federal judge saying it violated the Second Amendment.

According to The Reload:

Requiring blanket delays on firearm sales violates the Second Amendment.

That’s according to US District Court Judge Lance Walker. On Thursday, Walker issued a preliminary injunction against Maine’s 72-hour waiting period requirement for gun sales in a challenge brought by several Maine gun stores and individual gun owners. He found that the mandatory waiting period lacked a valid historical analogue and must be blocked.

“Viewed dispassionately, the Act employs no standard at all to justify disarming individuals, let alone a standard that can be described as narrow, objective, or definite,” Walker wrote in Beckwith v. Frey. “Consequently, I find that Plaintiffs have demonstrated that they are likely to succeed on the merits of their Second Amendment claim.”

The ruling immediately prevents state officials from enforcing the three-day waiting period for gun sales while the lawsuit continues to play out. It delivers a victory for gun-rights advocates challenging waiting periods after a string of recent setbacks in cases dealing with similar delays and other commercial firearms regulations. 

This will likely be appealed. 

To read more, go here. 

11 Free Things to Do in Key West

Above, take the free Duval Street Loop bus and see places like Sloppy Joe's Bar. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in April 2019, I went on a cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Havana, Cuba. Along the way, the ship stopped for several hours in Key West. Passengers spent the day roaming around town and toured its attractions and did some shopping and eating (or drinking).

For myself, I toured the Shipwreck Museum and Hemingway House. Those places charged admission, but they were worth it.

However, there are free things to see and to in Key West if one is a little short on cash or a cheapskate.

The Saturday Evening Post (!) has posted 11 free things to do in Key West.

They begin with:

Like any island town that has to import just about everything from gas to groceries, the resort destination of Key West, Florida, can be a pretty pricey place to visit. The good news: You can go for days from dawn to dusk without paying a single dime for sightseeing.

Here are 11 fun Key West freebies.

To see what they are, go here. 

Readin' Material

Above, the latest G-FAN with a nice Godzilla vs. Biollante cover by Mark Jones.

A little while ago, I returned home from going to the post office down at the Flying J Travel Center. While I was there and driving home, the area got some light snow flurries. 

It is just as well that my mailbox had some reading material, since I will likely be holed up indoors.

Issue number 146 of G-FAN arrived. J. D. Lees will be happy to know that the mailer of the issue was the Daikaiju Enterprises envelope. There was some issue over the mailers the mailing company was using for the past several editions.  Inside, besides the magazine, was a 2025 G-FAN calendar for 2025 with some nice photos.

Also arriving today was the March issue of American Rifleman. So, I am well set in reading material for now.