Monday, December 27, 2004
It's A Salt Cay Kind Of Christmas.....
Christmas Day and Boxing Day
I missed most of Christmas Day in town as I was busy preparing a turkey dinner here at the Rose.
Joel made the rounds in the truck and gave many of the old folks a ride. Uncle Will spotted the truck from his porch and hailed Joel for a ride. He likes the truck. At 87 he’s given up his bicycle.
Guests dined at Island Thyme with Haidee and Porter doing turkey.
Between myself and Cathy Doyle, we managed to cook up a pretty good meal of hors de ouvres, turkey, dressing, French potato dressing (Dirty Potatoes), gravy, Waldorf Salad (the fruit was a hit), and glazed carrots. M&M cookies and Spiced Rum Cake filled out the menu.
Nurse Joseph arrived with his date (the dialysis nurse from Grand Turk), Cindy and Adolpho (assisting Salt Cay Divers), Ed and Cathy Doyle, Debbie, Ollie and the McNairs, rounded out the table. Lots of wine, rum and good food was had by all.
This reporter hasn’t seen Debbie laugh as hard as she did last night. I’d tell you the story she was trying to tell, but she was laughing so hard, and I was laughing so hard with her that I never really did make out the event... something about her and Candy and something with holes in it...
We then left the dining deck for the observation deck under the full moon and enjoyed the beautiful Christmas night here on Salt Cay. It was unbelievably clear and bright last night and the moon on the ocean was amazing.
Chief Minister’s Christmas Luncheon
Chief Minister Michael Misick and members of his cabinet, visited Salt Cay for
their island luncheon on December 21, 2004. Included among the Ministers attending was the Minister of Public Works who will apparently be spending time on our fair island in the next months.
The CM announced to the Salt Shed audience several items of significance:
store? Do you know what and where it is?
breeze of about 8 mph. The sea is flat and wonderful, with a surface temperature of about 80+ degrees F. Supposedly a front is coming, but with any luck it will get lost on its way down here.
New Year’s Happenings
Crown’s land down south and the sounds are even more intense–and maybe they really do mean it this time. Several are with donkey and out of the loop, so to speak.
several months. Beet futures are strong on Grand Turk with many stores investing heavily in canned beats on news the James’ were arriving before the end of the fiscal year. I would suggest bailing on beets and selling short by mid-April though.
I missed most of Christmas Day in town as I was busy preparing a turkey dinner here at the Rose.
Joel made the rounds in the truck and gave many of the old folks a ride. Uncle Will spotted the truck from his porch and hailed Joel for a ride. He likes the truck. At 87 he’s given up his bicycle.
Guests dined at Island Thyme with Haidee and Porter doing turkey.
Between myself and Cathy Doyle, we managed to cook up a pretty good meal of hors de ouvres, turkey, dressing, French potato dressing (Dirty Potatoes), gravy, Waldorf Salad (the fruit was a hit), and glazed carrots. M&M cookies and Spiced Rum Cake filled out the menu.
Nurse Joseph arrived with his date (the dialysis nurse from Grand Turk), Cindy and Adolpho (assisting Salt Cay Divers), Ed and Cathy Doyle, Debbie, Ollie and the McNairs, rounded out the table. Lots of wine, rum and good food was had by all.
This reporter hasn’t seen Debbie laugh as hard as she did last night. I’d tell you the story she was trying to tell, but she was laughing so hard, and I was laughing so hard with her that I never really did make out the event... something about her and Candy and something with holes in it...
We then left the dining deck for the observation deck under the full moon and enjoyed the beautiful Christmas night here on Salt Cay. It was unbelievably clear and bright last night and the moon on the ocean was amazing.
Chief Minister’s Christmas Luncheon
Chief Minister Michael Misick and members of his cabinet, visited Salt Cay for
their island luncheon on December 21, 2004. Included among the Ministers attending was the Minister of Public Works who will apparently be spending time on our fair island in the next months.
The CM announced to the Salt Shed audience several items of significance:
- The dock and harbor are now under contract, or will be within the next few days, for rebuilding and refurbishment, as well as enlargement;
- There will be runway lights on Salt Cay in 2005. Middle Caicos’ lights are now on and operational as of this month;
- The streets of Salt Cay will be rehab’ed. How and what of will be the subject of many meetings, with a definite bent towards keeping the historic nature of Salt Cay in mind..blacktop or something else?
- Be prepared for an economic boom in the TCI’s as well as on Salt Cay. It almost sounded like an invasion, but he was adament, as were the other Ministers, that the next year will be one of great economic expansion;
- Be prepared for growth on Salt Cay in the form of "low density cottages". Now what that means, I cannot say as neither did he;
- Salt Cay will NOT become Provo, it will keep it’s basic historic nature.
The remarks of the CM were confirmed, especially by the Minister of Public Works, and others. Most encouraging were remarks by one Minister who stated that the island passed down by our Senior Citizens of Salt Cay, would not become a different island...but one that reflects the historic values and look of the one passed down by them.
Representing the Seniors was Vita Talbot who gave her remarks, as well as DC Dottis Arthur.
Sharon Shafer, representing the hoteliers of the island, emphasized quite well the needs of the island: non-asphalt street improvements, a dock and harbor, lights for the runway, that the DC and Nurse Joseph be allowed to remain on Salt Cay for the foreseeable future, and a "supermarket" for the people of Salt Cay.
A lunch was served for all the Islanders, residents and guests of ham, turkey, chicken, macaroni and cheese, salad, peas and rice and numerous desserts. An open bar was well tended by Miss Ella’s grandson, Bernard.
Lionel was in attendance desquised as Charley Pride; Miss Netty and Rock’s granddaughter Randy Ann was also present. Tell me she isn’t the pride of Rock and Netty (photo below); and the turnout was great, despite the threatening weather.
The Dominican Store and Other Grand Turk Secrets
store? Do you know what and where it is?
Maria turned me on to this little store several years ago, and I never miss a trip there. Why?
Coffee. The DR coffee, already ground, in 1 pound bags is wonderful, full bodied and strong. It’s $5. There is another coffee there as well, Spanish I think, vacuum sealed, which is quite light in its roast, but also very good. It is about $4 for 12 ounces or so.
You can also obtain Brugal (yes, like the rum) clear and dark vanilla extract. Once you smell this vanilla, you’ll recognize the scent. But I’m not going to tell you where you’ve smelled it before–you’ll have to figure that out yourself. The vanilla is a whopping $1.75 a bottle. I have to say, I have never seen clear vanilla before this. With the holidays, there was run on vanilla and hopefully they’ll be restocked soon.
The DR store also sells raw black beans, in bulk, so you can mix up a batch of Black Bean Soup or Black Bean Smashers (recipe follows). They carry Salzon, which is Maria’s secret ingredient for her Peas and Rice (she showed me that one) and many other items–you just have no idea what it will be.
Porter found various incense flavors (whatever they are) much to his surprise. I don’t think he really realized what a find this little store is.
Anyway, check out the DR store on Grand Turk. It is located directly south of Building Materials, just across the side road where they load your truck–same side of the street. They have cold water in the fridges in the front of the store by the way if you’re waiting for a ride to the dock.
Ever noticed the 7-11 store downtown, next to the old Cee’s location? That is another gold mine as far as I am concerned. And run by very nice folks to boot. I tried to buy some Parmesan cheese there last week, probably the last one on the island. The lady at the counter took it away from me and said I couldn’t buy it, it was way out of date and should not be bought.
The 7-11 has an interesting variety of canned goods, sauces and such you might not find elsewhere. They also have a bank of freezers to look through.
Not a secret is the new Cee’s Warehouse. Costco/Sam’s it isn’t, but what a place. They have added glass front freezers, cold foods, vegetables in bulk, breads, bagels, dairy, meats, ice cream galore the other day...more appliances to chose from, and more room for the old stand- byes.
R&R Market, on the road to LuLu’s, by the salinas, has really up-towned their interior. They have SHELVES! Rows! Glass front coolers/freezers! Pepsi too.
And of course LuLu’s–which is now including a lumber section with the tile, grout, canned green beans, ironing boards, fresh vegetables and PVC of all sizes. After a long day of shopping, we found ice cream sandwiches in the freezer box and they really, really, hit the spot.
I like to stop at LuLu’s last, because you absolutely never know what you’ll find there, that wasn’t any place else.
Black Bean Smashers
This is a great low cal, low fat, high protein way to do black beans for use on quesadillas, burritos, enchiladas, and so forth. Black, refried so to speak, beans. Everything is available on Salt Cay too if you shop right in Grand Turk. Get the beans in bulk at the DR store on Grand Turk.
1 ½ pounds or so of black beans, soaked and sorted, rinsed and drained
1 Tablespoon oil, olive oil or bacon drippings
1 yellow onion, chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 Anaheim green chiles, peeled, seeded and chopped (use more, use hotter, use what you like for taste. Use canned if that’s what you have)
1-2 tablespoons Chile powder
salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Mexican oregano (if you have it–otherwise don’t use Italian)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 beer
Left over coffee from the pot
Water
Soak the beans for a few hours, or overnight. Rinse them and sort them so you get out bad beans and potential stones.
In your bean pot, saute the onions in either canola oil, butter, olive oil or bacon drippings–it won’t take much to saute with, on medium high heat. Add the garlic when the onion starts to soften. Add the peppers and mix together.
Clear the center of the pot and add the cumin, chile powder and the Mexican Oregano. Do not use Italian Oregano as the taste is quite different. Toast the spices in the bottom of the pan. Careful not to burn them. This will take just a minute or so to do.
Add the bottle of beer to the onion mixture and stir it up good to mix. If it’s cold and not too early in the day, enjoy a swig or too to get you through the rest of the recipe. The alcohol in the beer will dissipate with the heat of the pan by the way.
If you have some left over coffee in the pot, throw that in too. Coffee was a traditional liquid in the old western cattle trail recipes as liquid (like here on Salt Cay) was never wasted. If it wasn’t drunk, it was used in the meals. It does add a unique touch to the beans, as do the hops from the beer.
Add the beans to the pot. Salt and pepper to taste. With beans you need salt, but don’t over salt.
Add water to cover the beans and allow for them to soak up the liquids. Bring to a boil and then a good simmer until the beans soften and are ready to smash. There should not be much liquid left to speak of. Now, take your potato masher and smash the beans into a paste. Black beans really thicken up nicely.
Unlike traditional refried beans, there is no lard added to these to thicken them. They’ll do that on their own if you cook them down.
You can vary this recipe, using Pinto beans. When doing pintos, I like to add some diced tomato, at least a can with the juice, just to make it a little more interesting.
Add more peppers, more onion–do what you want to make it yours. The onion and peppers disappear into the mix as it cooks down pretty well, and then are really gone with the smashing.
Wipe some across a fresh flour tortilla, top with cheese or sour cream and some salsa. Build a salad burrito with some lettuce, red onion and tomato and fold it up.
The Weather Report
breeze of about 8 mph. The sea is flat and wonderful, with a surface temperature of about 80+ degrees F. Supposedly a front is coming, but with any luck it will get lost on its way down here.
New Year’s Happenings
With more ex-pats on the island now that the Christmas holiday is behind, New
Year’s looks to be a happening of some dimension. Fortunately, no one will have a long drive, no fog, no snow, no DUI checkpoints to circumvent. The only thing we will all have in common is avoiding that drunk driver in the other golf cart. You folks will miss our dilemma of trying to avoid dumping your cart into the Salinas, the ocean or just losing it somewhere between Porter’s and home.
Critter Report
Crown’s land down south and the sounds are even more intense–and maybe they really do mean it this time. Several are with donkey and out of the loop, so to speak.
Cathy and Ed report the cats are in heat in their neighborhood. They were entertained the other morning at dawn.
Cathy and Ed also found a water snake at the cliffs while snorkeling. They saw a large grouper, rays and this eel snake (per Ollie). Ed figured he was tired at the point in which he saw the snake and called an end to the snorkel trip.
The cows are eating cardboard faster than you can shake a broom at them. Though I don’t mind them keeping the sand burrs and their originating grass low, you just cannot trust them like you can a donkey.
Lop Ear, our resident donkey, comes in and does a fine job of keeping the grass down–and he doesn’t really need supervision.
But the cows! Geez. Turn your back on them for a moment and they’re trying to eat your cement bags, the cardboard box your Sarah’s order came in, and ignoring the grass you hired them to eat!
Debbie reports that a mother donkey and her baby have taken up residence in her yard and doing a fine job as a family keeping the grass down. They apparently arrived by the art of the leap over the wall. At least they’re cute.
After Christmas dinner I put out the aluminum pan with the turkey debris in it. This morning (Boxing Day) the pan was empty and about 10 hermit crabs of various sizes were struggling to walk away from the pan. They won’t squeek for a very long time. Then I put out the turkey carcass after I made my soup stock and that was empty an hour later. Nothing goes to waste here.
Flies are up, mosquitos are down, but mosquito futures remain strong, awaiting the next hatch. Sand fleas remain an unpopular investment that cannot draw flies, but are stable at their usual low level.
Comings and Goings
several months. Beet futures are strong on Grand Turk with many stores investing heavily in canned beats on news the James’ were arriving before the end of the fiscal year. I would suggest bailing on beets and selling short by mid-April though.
Ed and Cathy Doyle are here through the New Year before they trade in their shorts for the chill of Nanook of The North and attempt to stem the tide of worm poachers in the Canadian farmlands. They are looking forward to a hot shower. Seems not much progress has been made since last January on their electric water heaters.
Ann and Mike Hawkins are apparently scheduled to arrive the day before this reporter evacuates the island for the fresh powder of Park City. Though word is they may not be arriving till late January. Percy Talbot is counting the days as his golf cart is down for the count and apparently Captain Mike has the magic touch with it and many others. But first, the sand delivered by Frances will need to be removed BACK to the beach from which it came and allow the floaters to resume their posts on the beach and water.
Haidee Williams arrived on December 23 to positively identify her husband, Porter. We all looked forward to Haidee’s arrival and we and many others arrived at Island Thyme to greet her.
This reporter’s son and grandson arrive on December 27th for their first glimmer as to where their inheritance has gone. Marley will be thrilled to see his boy (Zach is 13) and I’m sure they’ll both be wet for a week.
Monday, December 20, 2004
The Faces Of Salt Cay
Maybe it is because I am getting older. Maybe it is realizing the vulnerability of
our little island after the real threat of Hurricane Frances. I do know it is the appreciation of what the people of Salt Cay do for me when I am not here.
I am looking back at this, and the last few years, realizing that only now have I really started appreciating the people who have called this island home their entire lives.
In retrospect I have pulled out these memories. Some have photos, some do not, but they are forever etched in my mind:
All the folks coming out of the air terminal at Grand Turk to come home on the first flight into Salt Cay...
Then the joy at Salt Cay airport of all the people coming home. And, the fact they still had homes to come back to...
Sitting with Mr. Smith at the Flash in September and him telling how Frances was "not that big of a hurricane...the one in ‘45....that was a hurricane"... And the Flash was 2 feet off it’s foundation. Mr. Smith finally smiles for my camera....
Attending Sunday services at St. John’s Church the Sunday after Frances. Poley leading as lay minister. Poley, Miss Pat and Morris, as well as the congregation, making sure I knew what to sing and what verses to read. The simple, basic commitment to each other, their church and their island was the most moving day I have experienced in a very long time. I was deeply touched to be made a part of it...
Uncle Lou and Mr. Smith, both men still riding their bicycles across the island, despite their age and health. Seemingly standing still but still moving. I only hope I can ride a bicycle when I am their age...
Uncle Sammy, playing his accordion on his front porch and the tune–"Don’t Fence Me In"....
Miss Rosalie playing the church organ and then electronic piano like a rock star. Such a seeming contradiction for this senior musician. And that smile of hers....
Joseph, our nurse, dancing with every lady at the Police Band performance, spinning them, hugging them, listening to them and making them beautiful...
The ladies dancing the swing to the beat of the band...these ladies can dance. Poley moving like Gene Kelly. The children dancing–first the girls with the boys being shy, then not being able to stay still any longer and dancing with anyone and everyone....
Miss Natalie, dancing to the carols the band played, the look of the dance on her face, captured on film...
Rock on his boat, getting ready to go fishing. Lionel netting for bait....
Miss Netty, Miss Ella and the other ladies helping Netty handle the goods when the Dominican boat comes in. The orderly sale of the precious items like pineapple, pears (avocados), oranges to the islanders...
Ned and Lily Kennedy, what history they have to tell...
Mrs. Lillian Lightbourne, when I took her picture, said "you took a picture of me the other day". I said you can’t have too many. She replied "I don’t have anyone to look at them...." Oh yes you do, Mrs. Lightbourne...
The children, loving the camera lense. Their beauty and simplicity, school uniforms and polite ways. The kids know everyone on the island....
Willis on his bicycle, honking his horn...
Rosalie Harriott with her slides, and lovingly sharing the history of her home and family with Islanders and guests...
The most striking memory I have was from my first trip to Salt Cay in 1998 or so. It was a black and white kind of Sunday—huge black clouds filled the October sky. We went past the Methodist Church and a congregation was walking down the street. The ladies of Salt Cay were decked out in their Sunday finest with hats, purses and gloves. The pastor was an ebony black man, which stood out in stark contrast to his white cassock and robes. The only color was the clothing of the ladies against the leaden sky. That was one day I had no camera with me, but the vision is probably better than any photo I could ever take.
These are just a few of my memories for this holiday season and I hope anyone reading this newsletter will respond with their own memories of the people of Salt Cay.
Here are a few of the faces of Salt Cay...
our little island after the real threat of Hurricane Frances. I do know it is the appreciation of what the people of Salt Cay do for me when I am not here.
I am looking back at this, and the last few years, realizing that only now have I really started appreciating the people who have called this island home their entire lives.
In retrospect I have pulled out these memories. Some have photos, some do not, but they are forever etched in my mind:
All the folks coming out of the air terminal at Grand Turk to come home on the first flight into Salt Cay...
Then the joy at Salt Cay airport of all the people coming home. And, the fact they still had homes to come back to...
Sitting with Mr. Smith at the Flash in September and him telling how Frances was "not that big of a hurricane...the one in ‘45....that was a hurricane"... And the Flash was 2 feet off it’s foundation. Mr. Smith finally smiles for my camera....
Attending Sunday services at St. John’s Church the Sunday after Frances. Poley leading as lay minister. Poley, Miss Pat and Morris, as well as the congregation, making sure I knew what to sing and what verses to read. The simple, basic commitment to each other, their church and their island was the most moving day I have experienced in a very long time. I was deeply touched to be made a part of it...
Uncle Lou and Mr. Smith, both men still riding their bicycles across the island, despite their age and health. Seemingly standing still but still moving. I only hope I can ride a bicycle when I am their age...
Uncle Sammy, playing his accordion on his front porch and the tune–"Don’t Fence Me In"....
Miss Rosalie playing the church organ and then electronic piano like a rock star. Such a seeming contradiction for this senior musician. And that smile of hers....
Joseph, our nurse, dancing with every lady at the Police Band performance, spinning them, hugging them, listening to them and making them beautiful...
The ladies dancing the swing to the beat of the band...these ladies can dance. Poley moving like Gene Kelly. The children dancing–first the girls with the boys being shy, then not being able to stay still any longer and dancing with anyone and everyone....
Miss Natalie, dancing to the carols the band played, the look of the dance on her face, captured on film...
Rock on his boat, getting ready to go fishing. Lionel netting for bait....
Miss Netty, Miss Ella and the other ladies helping Netty handle the goods when the Dominican boat comes in. The orderly sale of the precious items like pineapple, pears (avocados), oranges to the islanders...
Ned and Lily Kennedy, what history they have to tell...
Mrs. Lillian Lightbourne, when I took her picture, said "you took a picture of me the other day". I said you can’t have too many. She replied "I don’t have anyone to look at them...." Oh yes you do, Mrs. Lightbourne...
The children, loving the camera lense. Their beauty and simplicity, school uniforms and polite ways. The kids know everyone on the island....
Willis on his bicycle, honking his horn...
Rosalie Harriott with her slides, and lovingly sharing the history of her home and family with Islanders and guests...
The most striking memory I have was from my first trip to Salt Cay in 1998 or so. It was a black and white kind of Sunday—huge black clouds filled the October sky. We went past the Methodist Church and a congregation was walking down the street. The ladies of Salt Cay were decked out in their Sunday finest with hats, purses and gloves. The pastor was an ebony black man, which stood out in stark contrast to his white cassock and robes. The only color was the clothing of the ladies against the leaden sky. That was one day I had no camera with me, but the vision is probably better than any photo I could ever take.
These are just a few of my memories for this holiday season and I hope anyone reading this newsletter will respond with their own memories of the people of Salt Cay.
Here are a few of the faces of Salt Cay...
Season’s Greetings From Salt Cay
Seems being in the South District will be more quiet than the North District this Christmas. A really good band is coming in on Christmas Eve it appears and they are doing an all night dance till Christmas morning. So people from all over are coming Christmas Eve to party here all night. We may hear some of the music, but we'll only go down there for a while--certainly not the night.
We're doing a turkey here--15 pound Butterball. I don’t think "free range" exists here.
Unfortunately my little Trader Joe's pine tree didn't make it, despite the loving care it got from me....ungrateful thing. At least the cactus and the little palms are doing well.
Anyway, I'm trying to get to Grand Turk to grocery shop before the holiday and the kids get here next Monday. I suspect I should get the Parmalet milk in the fridge so the teenaged grandchild doesn’t suspect it isn’t straight from the cow.
You will all appreciate that a box (standard, not Costco size) of Lucky Charms from Sarah’s is $8.45. 6 or 7 chicken quarters was $6 for the entire box. Yellow squash is $3.35 a pound and corn on the cob is 60 cents and ear.
The ferry didn’t go out today as we have a bit of a Northeaster’ going here. It is 78F, 61% humidity, here on the 20th of December, with a 7 mph wind, threatening clouds, a bit of sea and threatening rain...just a threat. Haven’t seen a drop yet.
Cockadoodles....
For those of you who missed this bit of information on Radio Free Salt Cay this
spring....
Do you know what a "cockadoodle" is?
Ever wonder what those pencil sized holes in your yard were about?
The answer is: a spider
Take a headlight–you know, like a miner’s light or camping light you wear on your head. Go outside and look at the ground. It is important for the light to be right above your eyes, at eyebrow level. You will notice many, many flourescent dots on the ground. Bend down and take a look and you will see a spider.
Before you panic and run for the house, just remember you’ve been out there walking on them for years and never knew it–so just relax and forget about it...if you can.
According to Lionel Talbot they are called cockadoodles and they are a harmless spider that comes out at night. Rosalie Harriott also told us this spring that they would go out at night to find them as kids.
Dive Reports
Salt Cay Divers is going to South Caicos now when the sea is flat and there are enough folks ready to go. SCD takes the big boat on an all day excursion to dive the walls of South Caicos and there is time to go ashore and do some walking around, have lunch and enjoy the sites of this old island town. The diving is reported to be fantastic.
This diver/reporter will go as soon as I wake up on time on the morning of the trip. These trips are often a last minute decision based upon weather upon rising.
Water temperature is reported at about 80F at depth.
Now, for those of us divers who, shall we say, are getting older...
One of our guest divers on returning from South Caicos suffered an apparent heart attack on board the boat a few miles off Salt Cay. Ollie called in and reported the symptoms to Deb, who then, with Joseph, our resident nurse, gave instructions on what they should do enroute. Like hurry.
Upon arrival Deb and Nurse Joseph administered oxygen, got her stabilized and med-evaced her to Provo where she could be handled for either DCS, heart or stroke. Joseph told this reporter he accompanied her to Provo and stayed over to keep an eye on her. He and Deb thought that was the best place to go, just in case it was DCS as they have a chamber there. Head’s up thinking folks.
The guest is reportedly back in the States and doing well.
The guest had celebrated her birthday the night before (not to excess I understand), about 50 or so, was on Rx’s for various medical issues and been very active on her trip, diving regularly. She may have over stressed herself in the heat and with her activities. The point is, pay attention to yourself and the warning signs when you put yourself at stress whether it’s work or play down here.
Our new nurse, Joseph, is a real asset to this island. Unfortunately we only have him for a month or so as he is a contract nurse. He really pays attention to folks–in fact if he sees a band aid he asks what happened and what you’re doing for it. I suspect the ladies of the island will be going in for very regular blood pressure checks this month.
Joseph wants to make sure there are defib units on island that anyone can use as he indicates his unit is pretty hard to use and you have to know what you’re doing or could cause injury. A "smart" unit (one that walks lay people through the process) at the dock area, in his opinion, would be a real asset to the island as that is where the people are and that is where the boats will come in with problems on board.
I discussed diving and meds with him–I take BP meds–and Joseph indicated that I should not "dive deep"–which I don’t ordinarily do anyway. But, it was good advice and I will heed it. I also know, if something happens to me this month, he’ll know what meds I am on and handle it accordingly.
Christmas Happenings
The Salt Cay Seniors seem to have all the happenings for the holidays.
There will be a dinner and party for the Seniors this Saturday, the 18th at the Salt Shed. Then Windmills will be hosting the Seniors for an event–dress up apparently.
Christmas Eve and Christmas will find a band brought in for dancing at the Salt Shed.
Porter’s Island Thyme Bistro will be having their annual Christmas dinner for guests and residents alike.
Your reporter will be doing her own Christmas dinner at home this year. I’ll be putting a log on the yule fire and brushing the snow off the deck to make way for the patio table. Unfortunately our live pine–a foot tall little thing from Trader Joe’s that we brought is struggling to survive. I just repotted it and hope it handles the transition.
Resident-wise it appears that the McNair’s, and the Doyle’s are in residence for Christmas with things to liven up considerably between then and New Year’s Day.
The Salt Shed is decorated quite brightly with all kinds of lights and ornaments. This is great as the Shed will be hosting a number of fetes over the holidays. Kudos to the new DC, Dottis Arthur, who is a very talented, lively and vivacious woman. No one sits home when there’s an occasion to be had and a party to attend. Dottis is making sure events happen for the Islanders and especially our Seniors.
The Senior party on Saturday night had a great spread of food, gifts for the seniors that Dottis personally shopped for in Provo, and fresh fruit packs for each Senior.
Uncle Sammy played, to the delight of the audience, Jingle Bells, and two other Carols on his old Honer accordion.
The ladies did a number about a "hole in my pan" and had a pan with a hole in it. They stand in two lines and trade lines. Ms. Vida will tell me more about it–the music was too loud that evening to find out the details–but it is something from when they were kids.
Allee sang a Haitian Christmas Carol to earn his supper. The young men of the island sang a carol as well. You had to be there to realize that it was "talent" night so to speak and anyone could be pulled up to perform.
One of the guests pulled Miss Rosalie away from her keyboard to waltz to the delight of the crowd to get the dancing going. The guest (Riant) lasted one dance ashe was rapidly going under the weather, ahem, so to speak. Miss Rosalie wisely did not let him dip her when he attempted this at the end of the dance as she suspected he might not have his normal strength and wits about him.
This reporter got old Uncle Lou up and dancing and he lit up like a Christmas tree once he got up and going. Earl Talbot can certainly cut a rug as well.
Maria has lights on the Mt. Pleasant Guest House dormers and Jonathon wants more lights to brighten things up even more. New windows are going in as well.
Hopefully the DC will be able to get the Christmas Tree up on the stand that is out already. We missed it our last Christmas here and plan to have our picture taken for future Christmas postcards.
Weather Report:
December 14, 2004 at 2:30 pm (EST) finds us at 82F, with 59% humidity and a 10 mph out of the west. There are scattered clouds. Dew point is 66F. There were scattered showers this morning at dawn.
Critter Report:
Mosquitos are not in evidence in the South at this time, with a few hatches noted in the North District, especially near the drying "pond" in front of Nathan’s house.
Sand Fleas have been coming and going, with bug bombs helping considerably indoors. We seem to see these guys only when they open their mouth, prior to biting you. I noted that Sand Flea bite medications are lumped with jelly fish sting meds...that doesn’t really surprise me as these guys really pack a whallop.
You might want to consider bringing something along that line if you are coming down soon.
Flies had not been an issue at all until just the last few days–when the weather turned more hot.
Cockroaches, (sorry) have also been in evidence. Ed says they are Palmettos. I must say, whatever they are, these guys could wear saddles and give kids pony rides if they had a mind to. But, once again, a few well placed bug bombs upon your arrival and they will be, literally, "toes up" on the floor in no time.
Centronella candles have been a big help here in the evenings to assist in combating the fews biters we do have. You might bring some with you just in case.
Mice have been an item all over the island this late fall. This reporter about had a fit when she lifted her computer bag this morning. Marley, my cub reporter, was rooting around my photo bag and computer stuff like something was happening of great importance. Being a dog, and not much of a hunter/killer kitty, he didn’t solve the problem but left it to be handled by Joel. By the way, the mouse in question was only slightly larger than the cockroaches have been. Bring a mouse trap with you or some bait.
And then there are the Cockadoodles.....I knew there was a reason I don’t go barefoot...
We have lots of new calves here by the way. One isn’t much bigger than Marley right now. One mamma cow has twins.
Lastly, Sue reports that Valentine, the almost year old grey donkey has been traveling through the dock and Green Flash area with his mother and grandmother on their daily routines. Both females are obviously "with donkey" and should be dropping new foals (I assume that is what you call a baby donkey) any time. Valentine is all fuzzy and still the friendly little guy he was this spring.
Personal Notes:
Thanks for the email on my little News Raker. It is fun to look around and see what people want to know when you’re not on the island–or as some friends do, live vicariously through us.
As is typical with a computer "blog" you can post a reply to anything that appears on the blog.
I will also try to do some essays, for lack of a better term. And they are copyrighted, as I do intend to do something with them someday, with pictures.
Most likely, the first will be on The Faces Of Salt Cay, a look at the people of Salt Cay and memories of them by this reporter. To follow will be a photo essay on If Windows Could Speak, The History of Salt Cay.
So, my first essay of sorts on The Faces of Salt Cay
Seems being in the South District will be more quiet than the North District this Christmas. A really good band is coming in on Christmas Eve it appears and they are doing an all night dance till Christmas morning. So people from all over are coming Christmas Eve to party here all night. We may hear some of the music, but we'll only go down there for a while--certainly not the night.
We're doing a turkey here--15 pound Butterball. I don’t think "free range" exists here.
Unfortunately my little Trader Joe's pine tree didn't make it, despite the loving care it got from me....ungrateful thing. At least the cactus and the little palms are doing well.
Anyway, I'm trying to get to Grand Turk to grocery shop before the holiday and the kids get here next Monday. I suspect I should get the Parmalet milk in the fridge so the teenaged grandchild doesn’t suspect it isn’t straight from the cow.
You will all appreciate that a box (standard, not Costco size) of Lucky Charms from Sarah’s is $8.45. 6 or 7 chicken quarters was $6 for the entire box. Yellow squash is $3.35 a pound and corn on the cob is 60 cents and ear.
The ferry didn’t go out today as we have a bit of a Northeaster’ going here. It is 78F, 61% humidity, here on the 20th of December, with a 7 mph wind, threatening clouds, a bit of sea and threatening rain...just a threat. Haven’t seen a drop yet.
Cockadoodles....
For those of you who missed this bit of information on Radio Free Salt Cay this
spring....
Do you know what a "cockadoodle" is?
Ever wonder what those pencil sized holes in your yard were about?
The answer is: a spider
Take a headlight–you know, like a miner’s light or camping light you wear on your head. Go outside and look at the ground. It is important for the light to be right above your eyes, at eyebrow level. You will notice many, many flourescent dots on the ground. Bend down and take a look and you will see a spider.
Before you panic and run for the house, just remember you’ve been out there walking on them for years and never knew it–so just relax and forget about it...if you can.
According to Lionel Talbot they are called cockadoodles and they are a harmless spider that comes out at night. Rosalie Harriott also told us this spring that they would go out at night to find them as kids.
Dive Reports
Salt Cay Divers is going to South Caicos now when the sea is flat and there are enough folks ready to go. SCD takes the big boat on an all day excursion to dive the walls of South Caicos and there is time to go ashore and do some walking around, have lunch and enjoy the sites of this old island town. The diving is reported to be fantastic.
This diver/reporter will go as soon as I wake up on time on the morning of the trip. These trips are often a last minute decision based upon weather upon rising.
Water temperature is reported at about 80F at depth.
Now, for those of us divers who, shall we say, are getting older...
One of our guest divers on returning from South Caicos suffered an apparent heart attack on board the boat a few miles off Salt Cay. Ollie called in and reported the symptoms to Deb, who then, with Joseph, our resident nurse, gave instructions on what they should do enroute. Like hurry.
Upon arrival Deb and Nurse Joseph administered oxygen, got her stabilized and med-evaced her to Provo where she could be handled for either DCS, heart or stroke. Joseph told this reporter he accompanied her to Provo and stayed over to keep an eye on her. He and Deb thought that was the best place to go, just in case it was DCS as they have a chamber there. Head’s up thinking folks.
The guest is reportedly back in the States and doing well.
The guest had celebrated her birthday the night before (not to excess I understand), about 50 or so, was on Rx’s for various medical issues and been very active on her trip, diving regularly. She may have over stressed herself in the heat and with her activities. The point is, pay attention to yourself and the warning signs when you put yourself at stress whether it’s work or play down here.
Our new nurse, Joseph, is a real asset to this island. Unfortunately we only have him for a month or so as he is a contract nurse. He really pays attention to folks–in fact if he sees a band aid he asks what happened and what you’re doing for it. I suspect the ladies of the island will be going in for very regular blood pressure checks this month.
Joseph wants to make sure there are defib units on island that anyone can use as he indicates his unit is pretty hard to use and you have to know what you’re doing or could cause injury. A "smart" unit (one that walks lay people through the process) at the dock area, in his opinion, would be a real asset to the island as that is where the people are and that is where the boats will come in with problems on board.
I discussed diving and meds with him–I take BP meds–and Joseph indicated that I should not "dive deep"–which I don’t ordinarily do anyway. But, it was good advice and I will heed it. I also know, if something happens to me this month, he’ll know what meds I am on and handle it accordingly.
Christmas Happenings
The Salt Cay Seniors seem to have all the happenings for the holidays.
There will be a dinner and party for the Seniors this Saturday, the 18th at the Salt Shed. Then Windmills will be hosting the Seniors for an event–dress up apparently.
Christmas Eve and Christmas will find a band brought in for dancing at the Salt Shed.
Porter’s Island Thyme Bistro will be having their annual Christmas dinner for guests and residents alike.
Your reporter will be doing her own Christmas dinner at home this year. I’ll be putting a log on the yule fire and brushing the snow off the deck to make way for the patio table. Unfortunately our live pine–a foot tall little thing from Trader Joe’s that we brought is struggling to survive. I just repotted it and hope it handles the transition.
Resident-wise it appears that the McNair’s, and the Doyle’s are in residence for Christmas with things to liven up considerably between then and New Year’s Day.
The Salt Shed is decorated quite brightly with all kinds of lights and ornaments. This is great as the Shed will be hosting a number of fetes over the holidays. Kudos to the new DC, Dottis Arthur, who is a very talented, lively and vivacious woman. No one sits home when there’s an occasion to be had and a party to attend. Dottis is making sure events happen for the Islanders and especially our Seniors.
The Senior party on Saturday night had a great spread of food, gifts for the seniors that Dottis personally shopped for in Provo, and fresh fruit packs for each Senior.
Uncle Sammy played, to the delight of the audience, Jingle Bells, and two other Carols on his old Honer accordion.
The ladies did a number about a "hole in my pan" and had a pan with a hole in it. They stand in two lines and trade lines. Ms. Vida will tell me more about it–the music was too loud that evening to find out the details–but it is something from when they were kids.
Allee sang a Haitian Christmas Carol to earn his supper. The young men of the island sang a carol as well. You had to be there to realize that it was "talent" night so to speak and anyone could be pulled up to perform.
One of the guests pulled Miss Rosalie away from her keyboard to waltz to the delight of the crowd to get the dancing going. The guest (Riant) lasted one dance ashe was rapidly going under the weather, ahem, so to speak. Miss Rosalie wisely did not let him dip her when he attempted this at the end of the dance as she suspected he might not have his normal strength and wits about him.
This reporter got old Uncle Lou up and dancing and he lit up like a Christmas tree once he got up and going. Earl Talbot can certainly cut a rug as well.
Maria has lights on the Mt. Pleasant Guest House dormers and Jonathon wants more lights to brighten things up even more. New windows are going in as well.
Hopefully the DC will be able to get the Christmas Tree up on the stand that is out already. We missed it our last Christmas here and plan to have our picture taken for future Christmas postcards.
Weather Report:
December 14, 2004 at 2:30 pm (EST) finds us at 82F, with 59% humidity and a 10 mph out of the west. There are scattered clouds. Dew point is 66F. There were scattered showers this morning at dawn.
Critter Report:
Mosquitos are not in evidence in the South at this time, with a few hatches noted in the North District, especially near the drying "pond" in front of Nathan’s house.
Sand Fleas have been coming and going, with bug bombs helping considerably indoors. We seem to see these guys only when they open their mouth, prior to biting you. I noted that Sand Flea bite medications are lumped with jelly fish sting meds...that doesn’t really surprise me as these guys really pack a whallop.
You might want to consider bringing something along that line if you are coming down soon.
Flies had not been an issue at all until just the last few days–when the weather turned more hot.
Cockroaches, (sorry) have also been in evidence. Ed says they are Palmettos. I must say, whatever they are, these guys could wear saddles and give kids pony rides if they had a mind to. But, once again, a few well placed bug bombs upon your arrival and they will be, literally, "toes up" on the floor in no time.
Centronella candles have been a big help here in the evenings to assist in combating the fews biters we do have. You might bring some with you just in case.
Mice have been an item all over the island this late fall. This reporter about had a fit when she lifted her computer bag this morning. Marley, my cub reporter, was rooting around my photo bag and computer stuff like something was happening of great importance. Being a dog, and not much of a hunter/killer kitty, he didn’t solve the problem but left it to be handled by Joel. By the way, the mouse in question was only slightly larger than the cockroaches have been. Bring a mouse trap with you or some bait.
And then there are the Cockadoodles.....I knew there was a reason I don’t go barefoot...
We have lots of new calves here by the way. One isn’t much bigger than Marley right now. One mamma cow has twins.
Lastly, Sue reports that Valentine, the almost year old grey donkey has been traveling through the dock and Green Flash area with his mother and grandmother on their daily routines. Both females are obviously "with donkey" and should be dropping new foals (I assume that is what you call a baby donkey) any time. Valentine is all fuzzy and still the friendly little guy he was this spring.
Personal Notes:
Thanks for the email on my little News Raker. It is fun to look around and see what people want to know when you’re not on the island–or as some friends do, live vicariously through us.
As is typical with a computer "blog" you can post a reply to anything that appears on the blog.
I will also try to do some essays, for lack of a better term. And they are copyrighted, as I do intend to do something with them someday, with pictures.
Most likely, the first will be on The Faces Of Salt Cay, a look at the people of Salt Cay and memories of them by this reporter. To follow will be a photo essay on If Windows Could Speak, The History of Salt Cay.
So, my first essay of sorts on The Faces of Salt Cay
Sunday, December 12, 2004
This Weeks News--December 12, 2004
Police Band Brings Out Fred Astaire in Poley...
The TCI Police Band arrived by government boat Friday morning to entertain Salt Cay residents at the auditorium. The brass and string (guitar and bass) group gave a rocking, Caribbean flare to all the favorite Christmas Carols.
When I arrived, camera in tow on my bicycle–the band and already begun to play. As I approached the door I was greeted with Miss Rosalie spinning Lolita, one of the school children, in a beautiful West Coast Swing dance. But she wasn’t alone...many other ladies were dancing while the men, well they were still thinking about it.
Shortly though, the music got way too good to pass up. Poley Dickenson was looking like Fred Astaire on the boards as he swiveled those hips and raised his arms in joy. Miss Amy got up and danced a few times as Miss Rosalie wasn’t going to let anyone not dance.
This reporter got tagged by Miss Vida towards the end of the show and I thought I was going to have heat stroke before it ended. Needless to say it was a little warm in the room and I had been bicycling all morning–I was starting to have visions of Patrick in my head and decided to forego any jack hammering when I got home.
The youngsters were a real treat especially as they realized the camera was clicking. Trey and LeMel were a little shy about dancing–then got into the melee shortly. Soon the Police who help the band were dancing with the girls and spinning them around in swing moves.
Charles, our new, temporary nurse, danced with every lady of the island much to their delight.
The new DC is a real firecracker. She and Linda were dancing (Linda can really dance by the way) and then she fired up the Seniors for their party the 18th at the Salt Shed–and their party at Windmills.
Uncle Lou was in attendance–didn’t dance as he’s not feeling or looking really well if you know what I mean. Miss Millie and her husband Willie were there, as well as Mr. Smith and Percy.
And, at the end of the occassion, as is customary, the kitchen was opened and great food was had by all, courtesy of the island ladies.
How Cars Get On Salt Cay
After two weeks of waiting for Allan’s boat, The Bucanneer, to clear dry dock in Provo, finally arrived Saturday morning with our truck on board. The Ford Ranger filled it up pretty well...though Nathan mentioned his garbage truck, a full size Chevy truck with extended cab almost didn’t fit. And the damage to the front end of his truck pretty much confirmed how difficult it was to get it on and off the boat.
Of course we did this project at low tide, but no one seemed to mind.
We arrived early to make our ramp from government 2x8's and 2x10's and some Tradewinds plywood–we didn’t find out until the night before we had to provide a ramp. But, no problem, we knocked that out early.
About 1 pm Shine arrived with the truck. Got his backhoe and away we went–Joel behind the wheel.
The guys get the back of the truck up on the ramp with the backhoe, then Shine moves it around to get the front loader directly behind the truck–then, he starts pulling and lifting and Joel’s job was to keep it straight.
Now at one point the truck is almost off the ramp and the ramp is almost not touching the dock...a fine mess
Now, when the wood starts to pop and crack, that’s when Coral and all the guys start screaming "go, go!" and Shine raises it some more and gives it the final pull. The boat comes back to the dock, the ramp comes back to the dock as well and the truck is at about 45 degrees nose down. There is no going back unless you plan to park the truck radiator down on the boat.
Joel "Parnelli" McNair had sort of a stunned smile on his face when the truck finally came to rest on the ground at the dock. He had no idea just how tilted he was. When asked if he had his seatbelt on he denied needing one–though one picture makes it appear that the driver’s seat is empty. He was sort of like a Mercury astronaut going the wrong way–down, not up. He should have been all over the windshield given the angle of the dangle.
Hats off to Shine and his crew for a job well done.
I filmed the whole thing and the results are posted. As you well know uploading here is not exactly possible with the 28 kbps internet feature here—and my thanks to Marilyn and Mike James for providing me a place to plug in my laptop in their absence. Begger bloggers can’t be choosers.
Word is that DSL is coming–right...Can and String Telephone and Cableless will be telling us that when our cars have satellites and internet access.
Restaurant Reviews and Happenings
Deb’s Coral Reef Café is a great addition to the waterfront. She’s whipping out breakfast, lunch and dinners as well as bar time. This morning she cranked out French Toast for the divers, then pulled on her wetsuit, loaded them up and took them out for 3 dives today. Deb is working on numerous menu items for the season ahead and it should be great.
The Green Flash opened it’s doors and windows today. The big news is that Frances, the hurricane sort of "displaced" the Flash a few feet. This required a little bit of plumbing adaptations to make the building meet the pipes. The Flash moved at least a couple of feet due to the winds.
We had dinner at Island Thyme last night for my birthday. Joel had the Ahi Tuna–great as usual and I had, for the first time, John’s Almond Crusted Snapper–excellent. How does he make all those almonds stick to the fish?
Windmills is on hiatus at the moment. Jim and Sharon are off to Florida for 10 days before the season starts full tilt for them about the 20th.
By the way, Porter's birthday is Monday the 13th. He'll be 54. I know as I beat him to 54 by 3 days. Deb is later this month as well.
Changes/Improvements, Etc.
The DC’s Office has a fresh coat of dark red paint, looking snappy.
Clyde’s Palace is moving along. He has his own cement truck to get his mud made. Word is another barge will be disgorging another load of everything soon from the DR. The boat house is going to 3 floors and he hasn’t started his own home as yet–the fountains and walls are up. This reporter remains confused about this project and the owner’s apparent dreams for future projects on island. Supposed plans are for "staff quarters" to be built in the South District.
Clyde’s cement pile is completely cemented–we’ll see if that remains though word on the street is his plan was for the pile to become rock hard so he could use it for his new dock.
Ok, moving on to less depressing subjects....
Radio Mike–the Governor’s Home is still moving along at the speed of light. No perceptible changes are evident as yet.
The Brown House still looks the same...
Amy and David’s home is coming along and shold soon be done. Cabinets and finish work are in progress...
Candy has a second jack hammer—though I don’t know if this one has a name yet as it apparently has no history to speak of...
And that’s about it for now as that is all I can think of.
The TCI Police Band arrived by government boat Friday morning to entertain Salt Cay residents at the auditorium. The brass and string (guitar and bass) group gave a rocking, Caribbean flare to all the favorite Christmas Carols.
When I arrived, camera in tow on my bicycle–the band and already begun to play. As I approached the door I was greeted with Miss Rosalie spinning Lolita, one of the school children, in a beautiful West Coast Swing dance. But she wasn’t alone...many other ladies were dancing while the men, well they were still thinking about it.
Shortly though, the music got way too good to pass up. Poley Dickenson was looking like Fred Astaire on the boards as he swiveled those hips and raised his arms in joy. Miss Amy got up and danced a few times as Miss Rosalie wasn’t going to let anyone not dance.
This reporter got tagged by Miss Vida towards the end of the show and I thought I was going to have heat stroke before it ended. Needless to say it was a little warm in the room and I had been bicycling all morning–I was starting to have visions of Patrick in my head and decided to forego any jack hammering when I got home.
The youngsters were a real treat especially as they realized the camera was clicking. Trey and LeMel were a little shy about dancing–then got into the melee shortly. Soon the Police who help the band were dancing with the girls and spinning them around in swing moves.
Charles, our new, temporary nurse, danced with every lady of the island much to their delight.
The new DC is a real firecracker. She and Linda were dancing (Linda can really dance by the way) and then she fired up the Seniors for their party the 18th at the Salt Shed–and their party at Windmills.
Uncle Lou was in attendance–didn’t dance as he’s not feeling or looking really well if you know what I mean. Miss Millie and her husband Willie were there, as well as Mr. Smith and Percy.
And, at the end of the occassion, as is customary, the kitchen was opened and great food was had by all, courtesy of the island ladies.
How Cars Get On Salt Cay
After two weeks of waiting for Allan’s boat, The Bucanneer, to clear dry dock in Provo, finally arrived Saturday morning with our truck on board. The Ford Ranger filled it up pretty well...though Nathan mentioned his garbage truck, a full size Chevy truck with extended cab almost didn’t fit. And the damage to the front end of his truck pretty much confirmed how difficult it was to get it on and off the boat.
Of course we did this project at low tide, but no one seemed to mind.
We arrived early to make our ramp from government 2x8's and 2x10's and some Tradewinds plywood–we didn’t find out until the night before we had to provide a ramp. But, no problem, we knocked that out early.
About 1 pm Shine arrived with the truck. Got his backhoe and away we went–Joel behind the wheel.
The guys get the back of the truck up on the ramp with the backhoe, then Shine moves it around to get the front loader directly behind the truck–then, he starts pulling and lifting and Joel’s job was to keep it straight.
Now at one point the truck is almost off the ramp and the ramp is almost not touching the dock...a fine mess
Now, when the wood starts to pop and crack, that’s when Coral and all the guys start screaming "go, go!" and Shine raises it some more and gives it the final pull. The boat comes back to the dock, the ramp comes back to the dock as well and the truck is at about 45 degrees nose down. There is no going back unless you plan to park the truck radiator down on the boat.
Joel "Parnelli" McNair had sort of a stunned smile on his face when the truck finally came to rest on the ground at the dock. He had no idea just how tilted he was. When asked if he had his seatbelt on he denied needing one–though one picture makes it appear that the driver’s seat is empty. He was sort of like a Mercury astronaut going the wrong way–down, not up. He should have been all over the windshield given the angle of the dangle.
Hats off to Shine and his crew for a job well done.
I filmed the whole thing and the results are posted. As you well know uploading here is not exactly possible with the 28 kbps internet feature here—and my thanks to Marilyn and Mike James for providing me a place to plug in my laptop in their absence. Begger bloggers can’t be choosers.
Word is that DSL is coming–right...Can and String Telephone and Cableless will be telling us that when our cars have satellites and internet access.
Restaurant Reviews and Happenings
Deb’s Coral Reef Café is a great addition to the waterfront. She’s whipping out breakfast, lunch and dinners as well as bar time. This morning she cranked out French Toast for the divers, then pulled on her wetsuit, loaded them up and took them out for 3 dives today. Deb is working on numerous menu items for the season ahead and it should be great.
The Green Flash opened it’s doors and windows today. The big news is that Frances, the hurricane sort of "displaced" the Flash a few feet. This required a little bit of plumbing adaptations to make the building meet the pipes. The Flash moved at least a couple of feet due to the winds.
We had dinner at Island Thyme last night for my birthday. Joel had the Ahi Tuna–great as usual and I had, for the first time, John’s Almond Crusted Snapper–excellent. How does he make all those almonds stick to the fish?
Windmills is on hiatus at the moment. Jim and Sharon are off to Florida for 10 days before the season starts full tilt for them about the 20th.
By the way, Porter's birthday is Monday the 13th. He'll be 54. I know as I beat him to 54 by 3 days. Deb is later this month as well.
Changes/Improvements, Etc.
The DC’s Office has a fresh coat of dark red paint, looking snappy.
Clyde’s Palace is moving along. He has his own cement truck to get his mud made. Word is another barge will be disgorging another load of everything soon from the DR. The boat house is going to 3 floors and he hasn’t started his own home as yet–the fountains and walls are up. This reporter remains confused about this project and the owner’s apparent dreams for future projects on island. Supposed plans are for "staff quarters" to be built in the South District.
Clyde’s cement pile is completely cemented–we’ll see if that remains though word on the street is his plan was for the pile to become rock hard so he could use it for his new dock.
Ok, moving on to less depressing subjects....
Radio Mike–the Governor’s Home is still moving along at the speed of light. No perceptible changes are evident as yet.
The Brown House still looks the same...
Amy and David’s home is coming along and shold soon be done. Cabinets and finish work are in progress...
Candy has a second jack hammer—though I don’t know if this one has a name yet as it apparently has no history to speak of...
And that’s about it for now as that is all I can think of.
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