Today marks the 69th anniversary of the Grand Canyon airliner collision.
The accident ushered in the creation of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Here's a fairly new video (three months) on the disaster (click on to view):
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| Above, the crash site from the Desert View Watchtower viewpoint. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
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| Above, a memorial plaque at the Desert View Watchtower. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
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| Above, a description of the crash at the Desert View Watchtower. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
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 open the week and the end of the month of June, we have the 1980s girl vocal group Exposé with their 1987 hit, "Come Go With Me"..
From Wikipedia:
Exposé is an American freestyle vocal group originally formed in 1984 in Miami, Florida. The group has primarily consisted of lead vocalists Jeanette Jurado, Ann Curless, and Gioia Bruno. The group achieved much of its success between 1984 and 1993, becoming the first group to attain four top 10 entries on the Billboard Hot 100, including the 1988 number one single "Seasons Change." Exposé’s seven consecutive Top 10 hits on the US Hot 100 landed them behind only The Supremes (with nine consecutive Top 10 hits) for most Top 10 hits by an all-female group. In March 2015, Billboard magazine named the group the eighth most successful girl group of all time.
The group was popular in dance clubs and the mainstream Top 40, as well as adult contemporary charts in the United States. They toured and recorded music from 1984 to 1995, then retired from recording and public performances until 2003.
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| Above, salvaged artifacts on display at the Key West Shipwreck Museum. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Before the COVID pandemic hit in 2020, I was planning to re-visit Key West, Florida. But those plans were scrubbed when the pandemic hit, so I ended up traveling around the Four Corners of the continental U.S.
I had visited Key West for a few hours as part of a cruise to Havana, Cuba in 2019. I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to go back. I still do, but I am very soured about air travel. It is nowhere near as enjoyable as it used to be.
Cruise Radio has posted a list of the top 10 must-do activities for cruise passengers in Key West. Some of which I did during our stop.
They begin with:
Every trip to the Florida Keys is complete with a visit to Key West. People come from all over the world to experience fun in the sun with the taste of the island life this destination offers its visitors.
From the bars and museums to the endless celebrations, here is a list of eleven popular attractions for your Key West itinerary when visiting Key West, Florida.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, Alaska cruises in late April/early May and September/beginning of October can save money. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Like many things in life, timing is key. That also goes for taking a cruise vacation.
Everyone likes to save money by finding bargains. Some times of the year cruise line operators offer bargains too good to pass up.
AOL has posted an article on what are the cheapest month(s) to go on a cruise.
They begin it with:
If you’re looking for cruise deals, it pays to pick your sailing dates carefully. Prices can vary based on your cruise line, destination and more – but certain times of year tend to be cheaper than others.
Joanna Kuther, a travel agent and owner of Port Side Travel Consultants, said it’s “all based on the demand.”
“And when you're talking about holidays and when schools are out, when families want to travel together, it's always going to be more expensive,” she told USA TODAY.
However, there are bargains out there if you know when to look for them. Here’s what to know.
To read more, go here.
In my community, we have a neighborhood watch. It is a relatively safe place as friends and neighbors look after each other. Most residents are armed, so it would be foolish for a burglar to try to rob someone while they are at home.
Whenever I travel, I have neighbors and friends keep an eye on the ol' homestead. I do likewise for them.
Keeping one's sticks and bricks abode safe is the topic of an article in today's newsletter of RV Travel.
It begins with:
We all take steps to keep ourselves and our RV safe while on the road. But how many take extra steps to deter burglars from our homes while on the road?
Pages have been written here and elsewhere about staying safe from crime while RVing. However, little has been written about how to deter burglars from burglarizing your home in your absence while RVing. Full-timers no longer have to worry about a sticks-and-bricks house, but what about the rest of us? Personally, my home has been burglarized twice over the past 40 years while my wife and I have been traveling. After the last burglary, I studied up and doubled down on the steps I take to deter burglars from my home. So far, so good.
Here is what I learned and the steps I take to deter burglars:
To read more, go here.
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| Above, dry camping in Cool Springs, Arizona with the awning out. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Whenever I camp, whether it is at an established campground or boondocking (dry camping) somewhere, I make good use out of the motorhome's awning.
If I am at a place for over two nights, I'll also put out the rug as well.
Awning usage is the topic in today's newsletter at RV Travel. They wrote awnings harken back to an earlier time.
They begin with:
When RVers think of awnings, most think of a sheltered area outside their RV’s front door. It’s a place to enjoy fresh air without getting soaked from the rain or burned by the sun. For many RVers, it’s also an extra room in an otherwise small living space. Some RVers go to great lengths to furnish their “awning room” with chairs, tables, a rug — all to make the space more inviting.
What this area is — if you boil it down — is the equivalent of the old front porch.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, the Norwegian Sky made the list. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Even before the pandemic hit in 2020, the idea of going on a cruise on a massive behemoth cruise ship did not suit my fancy. To me, those ships are floating petri dishes.
The three cruises I have taken over the years were on smaller ships that accommodated under 3,000 people. Even then, I have come down with viruses anyway (fortunately, nothing major).
The topic of a Yahoo! article is about cruise ships for people who hate crowds. The ship I took to the Bahamas last summer, the Norwegian Sky, made the list. For me, it was just right.
The article begins with:
If the idea of sharing a ship with 7,000 passengers makes you queasy, the biggest cruise liners might not be your thing. But go too small, and you risk missing out on the perks that make cruising special – poolside lounging, a choice of bars and restaurants, spa days at sea and quality entertainment. That’s where 'Goldilocks cruises' come in: mid-sized ships that strike the perfect balance. Not too big, not too small – just right.
To read the full article, go here.
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| Above, some found Nassau, Bahamas a disappointment. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Not every cruise stop is one's cup of tea. Some destinations turned out to be duds.
According to an article in MSN, there are places where cruise passengers found disappointing and would rather not visit again.
The article begins with:
Cruise holidays give tourists the chance to tick off several top destinations on one trip.
But unfortunately, not every port leaves passengers hungry for more.
Experienced cruisers have taken to Reddit to share their main cruise regrets – and for many people, it's a destination that didn't quite hit the mark.
So, where will these cruisers be leaving off their itinerary?
To see which ones, go here.
Cruising and "sticker shock" seems to go hand-in-hand".
Many things of one's cruise aren't as "all-inclusive" as they may have been led to believe. As the saying goes, BUYER BEWARE!
A cruise ship worker reveals whether "all-inclusive" deals are really worth it in a Daily Mail article.
It begins with:
It often seems like everything is included on a cruise.
But first-timers might be shocked to learn that 'all-inclusive' doesn't necessarily mean they won't face a bill at the end of their cruise.
Cruise crew worker, Lucy (@cruisingascrew), has warned cruise newbies that there are lot of things that are 'not included' in the initial package.
In a YouTube video called 'Cruise Mistakes First-Times Always Make (Don't be that person'), Lucy reveals: 'An all-inclusive cruise is not the same as an all-inclusive hotel on land.'So what might not included in the price of a cruise?
To read the full article, go here.
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| Above, the grave of Bela "Dracula" Lugosi. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
RV Travel has posted a poll asking, Do You Enjoy Visiting 'haunted' or spooky locations?
Personally, the only place I've been to that may qualify as a spooky location was the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California. Other than that, I can't think of any other place.
When I was 15, I worked at a convalescent hospital as a dishwasher when I saw a metal dessert cup move by itself on a counter. But that was at work and not on a trip.
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| Above, Cedar Hill Cemetery in Ouray, Colorado. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
I did take a Dearly Departed Tour of cemeteries containing celebrity graves about ten years ago.
The poll begins with:
During your RV travels, do you enjoy visiting “haunted” or just plain spooky locations? These could be old cemeteries, old, haunted mansions, abandoned mental institutions, old jails/prisons, or anything else along those lines.
If you do enjoy visiting those kinds of places, do you seek them out on your travels, or do you only visit them if you come across them along your route or at your destination?
There are many places around the U.S. (and world!) that claim to be “haunted.” Have you ever visited a haunted location and had a ghostly or creepy experience?
To read more and take part in the poll, go here.
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| Above, the lobster dinner at Crossings Restaurant on the Norwegian Sky was paid for with my Onboard Account. The cost was $20. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
When I took the cruise to the Bahamas last summer with Norwegian Cruise Line, I deposited money with my credit card to my Onboard Account to pay for purchases on the ship. It is tied to the stateroom key card.
Generally, the onboard account is used for souvenirs, drinks and ship restaurants (for meals not covered under the cruise package). I paid extra for the lobster dinner one night. Meals not covered are stated on the menus, so there's no surprises.
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| Above, the bar bill was paid with the room card that was tied to my Onboard Account. |
According to Norwegian's website on Onboard Accounts:
How do I pay for onboard expenses?
For your convenience, all shipboard expenses are charged to your Onboard account. Sign up when you check in, establishing your method of payment with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, JCB Card, Diner's Club. You may also use your debit card however please be advised that we obtain pre-authorization, as we do for all Credit Cards, and some banks hold these funds for up to 30 days. The maximum initial pre-authorization amount for all credit and debit cards is $300. Cash can also be used as a method of payment to settle your account with an initial deposit paid in advance.
At the end of the cruise, when checking out, I was given an itemized receipt for all Onboard Account purchases and the amount of unused or credited amounts. The cruise line refunds any unused money to the credit card. I received a $147 refund to my credit card.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, a collection of "wheat" Lincoln cents. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
It has long been said that each penny costs more to make than its face value. People have found it to be more a nuisance than an asset.
The end of minting the Lincoln cent is the topic of an article in The Hill.
It begins with:
(NEXSTAR) — The U.S. appears poised to ditch the penny, with recent reports saying the U.S. Treasury made its final order of penny blanks in May. With no new blanks on the way, the U.S. Mint is reportedly producing the last new pennies the country may ever see.
You may feel inclined to rush out and purchase a few rolls of one-cent coins and stash them away, either to use to cover oddly-priced purchases or for a potential payout from collectors.
Generally speaking, you may not have to do either.
While a wind-down plan for the use of the penny hasn’t officially been released, it may be similar to the process followed in Canada, which parted ways with its penny in the early 2010s for the same reasons U.S. officials have expressed.
I have a tin cookie can full of pennies, so I won't be doing any buying.
To read more, go here.
Here's a video that coin collectors, or stackers, should view.
Here's the video's description:
In this video my bullion dealer Silver Dave of Local Silver Mint shocks me with his claim that more and more local coin shops do NOT want to buy back stackers' gold and silver. Why did TWO coin shops close to Silver Dave refuse silver sellers when they tried to sell their bullion? What will happen when the spot price of silver rises dramatically? What happens when dealers close their doors and won't buy back silver and gold? Watch as Silver Dave and one of his more vocal customers shares their thoughts on what's coming with stacking silver and gold and the best exit strategy to have with one's bullion. Are YOU concerned about selling your silver back to a bullion dealer? Join Silver Dave and I as we dive DEEP on his shocking warning and what to do about it! Never before has stacking precious metals been as important to do as it is today. Protect yourself from out-of-control governments, evil central banks, and the failing US dollar's grip as the world's reserve currency. Make sure you build a stack of silver rounds, silver bars, silver coins, and gold coins as essential barter and wealth preservation!
Be sure to read viewers' comments!
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| Above, the 2023 National Money Show in Phoenix. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Since silver has risen to $36/toz over the past several weeks, my buying of silver coins have tapered off. It appears that I am not the only one doing so.
I have a sizable enough collection thanks to my buying over the past few years. New collectors seem to be not so lucky.
Numismatic News posted a poll question on June 20:
Poll Question: What do you think is the biggest challenge facing new collectors today?
From the June 20, 2025, Numismatic News e-Newsletter, readers shared their thoughts on the biggest challenges new collectors face today.
To read what the responses were, go here.
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| Above, a black bear at Yellowstone Bear World. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Over the years, I have seen bears at a national park twice. The first was in Sequoia National Park and the second was in Yellowstone National Park.
If one encounters a bear, keep in mind that they may be many yards away, but they are fast runners.
That is the topic of an article in RV Travel, along with a video.
It begins with:
The video below from RVingWithJoe is only 30 seconds long, but it bears watching (pun definitely intended). Why? Because it answers the question, “How fast can a bear run?” Turns out bears can run pretty darn fast when they want to.
Joe happened upon this bear rapidly running across the road. Luckily, he was safely in his vehicle, but he did manage to get footage. We might think of bears as big, slow, lumbering creatures, but this video proves that it is not true.
To read more and see the video, go here.
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| Above, at the Ouray, Colorado KOA Kampground. Ouray is at 7,792 feet in elevation. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
My RV travels have been varied.
I have camped at sea level (or close to it) and in higher elevations. I have had no problems with either, but that's not to say that others (or myself) may encounter issues with higher elevations.
That is the topic of an article in RV Travel. They provide 11 crucial tips for high altitude camping.
They begin with:
Life on the road brings all sorts of surprises, especially when exploring the mountains in an RV. Bob and Karri from Life Redesigned know this firsthand after three years of crossing the country from north to south and everywhere in between. Their latest adventures at Black Canyon National Park in Colorado inspired a list of the most important things every RVer should know about high-altitude camping.
Altitude doesn’t just change the view; it affects everything you bring with you. RV engines, generators, appliances, and even your own camera notice when the air gets thin. Less oxygen means engines and generators have less power, making uphill climbs and regular tasks tougher. Travelers may feel it, too, with breathing getting harder and simple activities becoming more tiring.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, the post office at Continental Divide. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
I've noticed that I am going through tanks of gasoline quicker than before. Thankfully, the Mustang get around 30 miles per gallon. Still, it is adding up.
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| Above, Indian Market trading post is directly across Interstate 40 from the post office. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
I'll have to think this over.
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| Above, camping at Cottonwood Campground at Joshua Tree National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
RV Travel has posted a new poll asking the question, Do you own your RV outright or make payments?
I would hazard a guess that most people probably make payments, although 60% of responders said they own it outright. Personally, I own my Class C Winnebago outright, having paid cash for it.
The poll begins with:
For many RVers, buying a rig is one of the biggest purchases they’ll ever make—second only to buying a home. That’s why we’re curious: At this very moment, do you own your RV outright, or are you still making payments on it?
We all know that RV ownership comes with plenty of rewards—freedom, adventure, and the ability to bring your “home” just about anywhere. But it also comes with costs, and financing is a common part of the equation. Depending on the type of RV and the terms of the loan, monthly payments can stretch across 10, 15, or even 20 years. Some folks dive in with big down payments and aggressive payback schedules, while others are more comfortable spreading the cost out over time.
So today we want to know: Do most of you own your rigs outright, or is monthly financing the norm? If you’re someone still making payments, we’d love it if you’d share how much longer you expect to be making those payments. Your insight could help fellow RVers who are weighing their own financing options or just trying to understand what’s typical in the community.
To read or take part in the poll, go here.
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| Above, Yellowstone's bison in a creekside meadow. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Summer vacation season is here.
Now is the time to get out the roadmaps, national park visitor guidebooks and travel guides and plan vacations.
The BBC Wildlife Magazine (Discover Wildlife) has posted 10 best scenic drives across U.S. national parks. To date, I've driven about half of them.
They begin it with:
The United States is home to some of the most beautiful roads on Earth — winding through dramatic deserts, soaring mountains, and vast wildlife-rich plains.
These scenic drives around US national parks offer not just jaw-dropping views, but the chance to spot bighorn sheep, bears and elk, all before you’ve left the car and started your hike.
Whether you're cruising along a canyon rim or pausing in a high-altitude meadow, take your time and explore at your own pace. Just remember: conditions can change fast. Always check the National Park Service website before you set out, as many of these roads close seasonally due to snow or other extreme weather.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, at a pull-out after traversing Wolf Creek Pass. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Back in 2016, I drove a cross-country trip to Metropolis, Illinois to attend the celebration of life for actress Noel Neill (the original Lois Lane) in the RV.
While on the trip, I made some detours to such places as Graceland in Memphis, the Lincoln Library & Museum and gravesite in Springfield, Illinois and the Eisenhower Presidential Library in Abilene, Kansas, just to name a few.
The route going west had me on U.S. 160 through Wolf Creek Pass. The road itself was no problem, but it was very windy, enough so that I considered pulling over and waiting it out. But I pressed on to Pagosa Springs, Colorado. There, I treated myself to some coffee and some dessert.
RV Travel has posted an article on Wolf Creek Pass by Nanci Dixon. It includes C. W. McCall's song video, "Wolf Creek Pass".
It begins with:
My husband and I drove our 40-foot motorhome towing a pickup truck down one of the most dangerous highways in Colorado, Wolf Creek Pass, and lived to tell the tale. This pass has a switchback curve at the top and a 200-foot drop-off. Forget the guardrails here, you’d go off the cliff!
Before we drove the pass, Googling Colorado US 160 brought me to the Colorado Department of Transportation article about runaway and rollover semis on Wolf Creek Pass. 47 semis in four years went over! Not the most convincing or calming…
To read more, go here.
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| Above, a deer who showed up in my yard three weeks ago. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
So, with that being said, Game & Fish has posted an article listing the best cartridges for deer hunting.
They begin it with:
Some 35 million strong, the whitetail deer is the world’s most populous big-game animal, pursued annually by about 11 million deer hunters. The deer cartridges we use are important, driving sales and new developments, and influencing shooters and hunters worldwide.
Cleanly taking a deer is rarely a matter of extreme precision. The vital zone is not small. For most of us, shooting distances at deer aren’t far. Properly ventilating your venison is largely a matter of keeping your cool and making one reasonably good shot when the chance arises.
How well you place that shot is far more important than what you’re shooting. That said, it’s important to have confidence in your choice. Around campfires, we argue endlessly and split our hairs, comparing one cartridge to another. There are dozens and dozens of good deer cartridges, old and new. Too many for one article, in fact. Some of us like to thump our deer with larger calibers, and there’s nothing wrong with that. However, except as necessary, I will avoid discussion of cartridges with bullet diameters larger than .30. They work well but are not essential for deer.
To read more, go here.
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 begin the week is something a little more recent (2013). We have Swedish singer Tove Lo with her hit "Habits (Stay High)". This is a live version from Red Bull Sound Space at Los Angeles station KROQ. I prefer it over the studio version.
From Wikipedia:
Ebba Tove Elsa Nilsson (born 29 October 1987), known professionally as Tove Lo (Swedish pronunciation: [ˈtûːvɛ ˈluː]), is a Swedish singer and songwriter. She is known for her raw, grunge-influenced take on pop music. Referring to her autobiographical lyrics, Out called Lo "the saddest girl in Sweden", while Rolling Stone called her "Sweden's darkest pop export".
Raised in the Djursholm district of Danderyd, Lo is an alumna of the music school Rytmus Musikergymnasiet. She formed the rock band Tremblebee in 2006. After it disbanded, Lo pursued a career in songwriting and earned a publishing deal with Warner/Chappell Music in 2011. Working with producers Alexander Kronlund, Max Martin, and Xenomania, she became a successful songwriter, while also recording and releasing her own compositions independently.
In 2013, Lo was signed to Universal Music, Island and Polydor. The following year, Lo rose to prominence with her debut album, Queen of the Clouds, which opened at number 14 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart in October 2014. It spawned the sleeper hit single "Habits (Stay High)", which peaked at number three on the US Billboard Hot 100, as well as "Talking Body".
Leave it to James Woods.
How am I supposed to answer that when you show a photo of Jack Klugman? https://t.co/gcrZ32AuMZ
— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) June 22, 2025
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| Above, the Royal Caribbean lanyard obtained during the Cuba cruise. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
This did cause a minor problem with me. In Freeport, Bahamas, as we were headed back to our ship, Norwegian Sky, I couldn't find my pass card in my pocket. After several minutes, I found it tucked inside a folded brochure that was also in my pocket.
Six years ago, we were given lanyards for our SeaPass cards by Royal Caribbean (shown at top). I wore it during the entire cruise.
Royal Caribbean Blog has posted an article on why people love their lanyards.
They begin it with:
Convenience is king on any cruise, and bringing a lanyard is something I'll always bring on my cruise to make my life onboard easier.
There are plenty of things you could pack to bring on a cruise, but a vastly underrated one is a lanyard because I doubt I've ever considered having one on any land vacation I've taken.
I first noticed other cruisers wearing them when I started cruising, and I never thought I needed one until I gave it a try. It was one of those "don't knock it 'till you try it" situations.
Here's why you might might want to try it too.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, a sunrise view of Monument Valley's Mittens and Merrick Butte. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
In case you haven't heard, summer began last evening.
Now that we're in summertime, it is time to think about where to go during the vacation season.
Cowboys and Indians Magazine has posted some great suggestions in the form of the local's guide to three classic western road trips.
They start with:
If you’re like us, at some point this summer you’ll be loading the truck and getting out of town. The wide-open byways of the West are one of the best places to find the freedom, adventure, and sense of discovery that can only come from that great American tradition, the road trip.
This country would be a lot better off if we all got out a little more, met some different folks, went to some new places. And like Louis L’Amour, we believe the magic of any trip lies in the journey.
That’s why we’ve partnered with Off the Beaten Path, a Bozeman, Montana, travel service, to bring you this local’s guide to three classic Western road trips. Each begins and ends in a terrific destination, but we’re not going to talk about them. We're focused on the in-between. The road there. The stops, the people, the history that you encounter along the way. That’s what you always remember most.
We promise we’re sharing some great recommendations, but please use this guide as a rough plan. Stop at places that aren’t on the itinerary. If you feel the urge, go ahead, pull in. See where that side road takes you. And remember, sometimes you find the best stuff by getting a little lost.
To read more, go here.
Congratulations goes to my cousin Maria and her husband Fred for buying their new (to them) home in Lenoir City, Tennessee. Patience pays off!
They will be living under 10 minutes away from their daughters and their families.
Now the fun begins (moving their belongings and unpacking).
Here's the front of the house:
It looks like the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals got one right for a change.
It struck down California's one gun a month (30 days) law first enacted back in 1999. It said it violates the Second Amendment.
According to the NRA-ILA:
Today, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals held that California’s law prohibiting people from buying more than one firearm in a 30-day period violates the Second Amendment.
California enacted its one-gun-a-month law in 1999, at which point it applied only to concealable firearms. By 2024, it applied to all firearms. Several plaintiffs—including six individuals, PWGG, LP, North County Shooting Center, Firearms Policy Coalition, San Diego County Gun Owners Political Action Committee, and Second Amendment Foundation—challenged the law in the Southern District of California. After the district court held the law unconstitutional, the state appealed to the Ninth Circuit.
To read more, go here.
I remember going to see it with Max Bettman at the Studio Drive-In Theater in Culver City, California.
About a year or so before, I read Peter Benchley's original novel. Although the movie was a good one, the Peter Benchley novel was far better.
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| Above, Wade Tuni's winning ride. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
At last Saturday night's Gallup Lions Club Rodeo, I lucked out and photographed the winning ride of bull rider Wade Tuni.
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| Above, another shot of Wade Tuni's winning ride. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
The Navajo Times reported that Tuni took home prize money totalling $4,440.
They reported:
CHURCH ROCK, N.M.
The annual Gallup Lions Club Rodeo never disappoints as cowboys and cowgirls compete for a shipload of cash.
The biggest winner to emerge from the 75th edition was Wade Tuni as he collected a whopping $4,440, which included ground money.
Of the 36 entries, Tuni was the only one to cover his bull as he rode 100X for 82 points in Saturday night’s performance.
“I was the first one out and it was a pretty nice one,” Tuni said of his draw. “He was a pretty good bull to start off with. I just came out with a bang, so it came out pretty good.”
To read more, go here.
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| Above, an advertising sign for Asahi Beer in Asakusa. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Foreign visitors to Japan set a new record for May.
Kyodo News reported:
TOKYO - The number of foreign visitors to Japan in May rose 21.5 percent from a year earlier to 3.7 million, a record for the month, government estimates showed Wednesday, as travel demand remained strong even after cherry blossom season.
By country and region, South Korea topped the list with 825,800 visitors, up 11.8 percent, followed by China with 789,900, a 44.8 percent increase, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization.
To read more, go here.
Somewhere around 20 years ago, I purchased a page of original art of Action Comics no. 405. It is the October 1971 issue.
The page was pencilled by Curt Swan and inked by Murphy Anderson (with backgrounds inked by Jack Abel). At the time I bought mine, original comic book art was not too expensive. Mine was $100. I have forgotten who the dealer was that I bought it from.
The page was signed by Swan.
Today, Swan's original artwork, highly sought after, sells in the thousands of dollars. Key issue art commands more as do covers and splash pages. No, I don't plan on selling my page.
Here is the cover of the issue (by Neal Adams and Dick Giordano):
Here's the original artwork as it appears in my home:
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| Above, at camp near the Snake River near Jackson, Wyoming. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
I am only weeks away from taking a vacation trip up to Wyoming and South Dakota. Currently, the temperatures in Jamestown, New Mexico have been in the 90s, sometimes touching on 100°.
Summer means RV travel and some travelers will going into places that are in warmer climates. RV Life has posted an article with 10 hot weather RV tips to stay cool in the summer.
They begin it with:
Summer’s warm temperatures are perfect for RV camping and a lot of other fun outdoor activities. After all, many RVers spent winter and spring eagerly anticipating the heat of summer. However, in the case of scorching summer temperatures, too much of a good thing can be no good at all. That said, sweltering temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable, they can be hazardous. Not to worry though, because I’ve gathered 10 hot-weather RV tips that experienced RVers use to keep things cool in the RV when temperatures soar.
One tip they didn't mention is to indulge in some sort of water sport while at camp. A few years ago, I did some river rafting near Jackson, Wyoming. Besides being a lot of fun, I also was kept cool.
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| Above, rafting on the Snake River near Jackson, Wyoming. |
To read more, go here.
If you've thought you have seen it all...
THIS! This is the Oregon House of Representatives. What an absolute circus! They’re 100% serious. Clown show. pic.twitter.com/ftkyq0NQKx
— Chad Prather (@WatchChad) June 18, 2025
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| Above, a 1928 Peace silver dollar. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
As this blog post is being written, silver's spot price is at $36.255/toz according to COMEX.
But, as a new article by Numismatic News states, it did reach $37. Will silver hit $50?
Numismatic News begins with:
Up, up, and away is not really an appropriate description for the bullion coin market, but due to significant appreciation in not only the spot price of gold but also silver, the dynamics of much of the market are positive. Gold has been on a tear for some time, the spot price reaching new all-time records and then backing off only modestly.
This has kept the price of Gold American Eagles, gold commemoratives, and common-date and common-condition pre-1933 circulation strike gold coins at levels not previously seen. Dealers report this to be an excellent buying opportunity for them, but retail sales have not kept pace, as many institutional buyers and individuals who normally buy on a regular level are challenged to continue at these price levels.
Silver did not perform as well until recently.
Now Kitco’s Jim Wyckoff’s recent comment that “silver appears to be a value buying opportunity” appears to be prophetic. As this market commentary is being written, silver is above the $37 an ounce level and appears to be ready to challenge the $40 resistance level soon. The record price of $50.36 set in January 1980 is still a far reach, or is it?
To read more, go here.
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| Above, a black bear at Yellowstone Bear World. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
In view of my last post of a bear incident near Aspen, Colorado and that summer camping season is almost upon us, I thought it would be a good idea to post the following from the American Bear Association.
It is about hiking and camping while in bear country.
They begin with:
Hiking & Camping in Black Bear Country
Recreational use of parks and wilderness areas is increasing. Tolerance and an appreciation for the unpredictable nature of resident wildlife is increasingly important. Negative encounters are often a result of human carelessness rather than an aggressive act by the animal. This is especially true with bears. Most bear “attacks” are caused by surprising a bear and usually can be prevented. Understanding bear behavior and recognizing bear sign are important when hiking or camping in Bear Country.
Before the Trip
Plan ahead – be prepared. Contact the local wildlife agency or park headquarters for information about the area wildlife, hiking/camping procedures and precautions as well as for any current bear activity areas.
- Familiarize yourself with bear behavior and signs.
- Avoid packing odorous food and nonfood (fragrant cosmetic, toiletries, etc.) items. Use bear-proof containers, doubled plastic bags or airtight canisters to seal in odors.
- Bring extra bags for leftovers and for packing out garbage, if necessary.
- Pack a flashlight and binoculars.
- Avoid taking a dog or keep it leashed.
To read more (a lot more), go here.
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| Above, a mother bear and her cub in Yellowstone National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
As far as I know, my campsites never received a visit by a bear while I was camping in a tent or in an RV.
I have camped in bear country a few times. One can tell by the signs and having a bear-proof food storage locker at the campsite.
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| Above, the bear-proof food storage locker at my campsite in Lassen Volcanic National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
However, recently some kids sleeping in a tent in a Colorado campground received a midnight visit by a black bear. Nobody was hurt and the kids took the incident in stride.
RV Travel posted an article on the incident.
They begin it with:
When a black bear poked its nose—and claws—into a tent where two kids were sleeping at Difficult Campground near Aspen, Colorado, the U.S. Forest Service decided that “difficult” was a little too “on the nose.” The result: an emergency ban on tents and other soft-sided shelters at the site, effective immediately.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, the RV is protected from winter snows in its garage. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
When I bought my new motorhome back in 2015, I parked it in my apartment complex's double parking space. I was able to back it in and park my car in front of it. This was in Los Angeles where the climate was not harsh for it.
Then, I moved to New Mexico and bought a home on two acres at 7,000 feet above sea level. This, I knew ahead of time, would be subjecting my motorhome to harsh conditions. This includes hot summers, thinner air due to the elevation and snow/freezing conditions. After moving, I ordered a metal garage for the RV. It was built before the winter snows arrived.
I later added a gravel floor.
So far, it has protected my motorhome just fine, especially when I added a 30-amp outlet to run holding tank heaters.
RV Travel posted an article on everything you need to know about storing an RV.
It begins with:
Proper RV storage keeps your camper secure, dry, and ready for the next adventure. With so many options—from uncovered storage to fully enclosed, climate-protected garages—the right choice depends on your budget, where you live, and how often you want to access your RV.
In today’s video, Jason Epperson of RV Miles shares a practical guide to storing an RV to help you decide where and how to store your RV for peace of mind all year long.
To read more, go here.
🚨 JUST IN: General Mills announces they will be removing artificial colors from their ENTIRE U.S. product line, following RFK Jr’s directives
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 18, 2025
This comes just HOURS after Kraft Heinz announced they’d also be removing theirs.
MAHA is spreading QUICKLY! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/0ePARuBLw1
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| Above, several lever-action Winchesters on display at the Billy the Kid Museum in Fort Sumner, New Mexico. |
In American gun culture, there are two kinds of people: plinkers (target range shooters) and hunter. I am in the former category.
Being an animal lover, I wouldn't go out and hunt for sport, but I understand the purpose of it and can't begrudge anyone who hunts.
I came across a story on one man's experience with his Winchester 94. It is a good read.
It was posted at AmmoLand yesterday and it begins with:
About 4 years ago, an online acquaintance I eventually knew In Real Life named “Rich” (last name withheld for his family’s anonymity) and I were chatting about firearms. He mentioned he had a Winchester Model 94 lever action in .30-30, octagonal barrel, takedown, open sights, that his Great Grandfather had bought new in Seattle in 1898. Rich had no heirs who would care to have it. So, we kinda agreed that if and when he ever considered disposing of it, that he would call me, as I live just 40 miles away.
Two years passed, and Rich called: “I have four kinds of cancer, and I’ll be out in about 3 months.” Tragic. He had had a fascinating and good life, a loving wife and daughter, a great place in the woods, a 1973 Ford F250 HiBoy in pristine condition … and a gun collection.
“How’d you like to come buy me out?” he said. “What all do you have?” I asked. He listed out about 22 firearms, including the Model 94. “That’s a few more than I can handle, but can I bring a relative and friend?”
To read more, go here.
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| Above, the old post office at the Flying J with the post office boxes removed. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Gone now are the post office boxes. There is just only a big opening in the wall where the boxes used to be.
Now, we have to travel eight miles east to Continental Divide to pick up our mail. It is a pain in the ass. It'll be worse come winter.
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| Above, the moon over the cruise ship to Havana. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Here's an interesting article on cruise ships.
To begin with, I am an early riser. Being so, I usually go to bed early, maybe anywhere between 8:00 to 9:00.
Most often during cruises, I'll get up around 4:00 in the morning and head on down to a snack bar and grab a cup of coffee and, if available, a small box of cereal to munch on and take my medications (several require taking with food). In my experience, the seas, when I have gotten up, are relatively calm. But, there are instances where staying indoors on a cruise ship at night is the most prudent thing to do.
LADbible posted:
Thinking about a holiday on a cruise ship soon? It's a great chance to sample the unique experience of traveling the world on water, and enjoying some well earned relaxation time on deck.
Yeah, that sounds incredible, but, one cruise line regular has explained why it's not all rainbows and unicorns on cruise ships.
I know what you're thinking - it's a cruise ship, in the middle of the ocean at night, they're just going to say it's really, really dark. Sorry to disappoint, but that's not the only thing to worry about.
According to this frequent cruiser, one of the biggest concerns around cruises at night is just how rough the ocean can get. Uploading a video to TikTok, he gives us a glimpse of just how rough the sea can get at night, and the dangers that could bring to anyone up on the deck.
To read more and, see a video, go here.
