Older Comments Gallery - January 1, 2009 thru January 17, 2010 - closed to new comments - click on image to view Photo Gallery by Don Boyd at pbase.com

Older Comments Gallery - January 1, 2009 thru January 17, 2010 - closed to new comments - click on image to view

This gallery contains all the comments that were made from January 1st, 2009 through January 17, 2010. Comments that have been made in other galleries and under individual photos, which are often more pertinent to the subject, have not been moved and will remain where they are.

Please do NOT add new comments to this gallery after 1/17/09 because they will be deleted. Please add your new comments to the current comments gallery. Thank you.

Old Comments Gallery - January 1, 2009 thru January 17, 2010 - closed to new comments

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gfbadgf@gmail.com		22-Nov-2012 12:33
Practically never grimace, even though you're going to be miserable, if you can't say for sure who seems to be tipping excited about your ultimate be happy.

Don Boyd		18-Jan-2010 06:32
This comment gallery is NOW CLOSED to all new comments. New comments posted here will be deleted immediately regardless of content. Please post all new comments in the NEW comments gallery starting January 18, 2010. Thanks! Don

whitebelt		18-Jan-2010 00:56
This page file size is about 1.75 MB. The front page of the NYT is about 118 KB, the Miami Herald is about 31 KB. Your Memories of Old Hialeahhttp://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories) is about 35 KB. It is a BIG page to download and view. Especially if you are on dial up. If you use Firefox you can right click and select view page info after it loads to see the size of the page you are viewing. If you select view page source you can read the script the page uses, about 1.7 MB of just text for this page. Internet Explorer has similar features.

Arizona Al		17-Jan-2010 23:32
Miami Girl: The customary immediate responses to a traumatic event are acute and/or pervasive dissociative reactions such as grief, denial and emotional numbing. The secondary and longer term disorders are the anxiety disorders including panic attack,generalized and pervasive anxiety disorder and post traumatic stress disorder. The tertiary disorders include the affective states of anhedonia, cyclothymia and major depression.The population (children, adolescents and adults) affected by the Haiti earthquake can be expected to experience and suffer both the immediate and longer term disorders for the immediate and long term time frame. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		17-Jan-2010 21:42
Don, I just copied the text of this whole page and pasted in a plain text editor. This is about 953 KB, almost a megabyte, just of text. That is a lot. Even more for a web page because of the formatting and the time it takes for the processor to collate it all. I tried uploading just that text to a test post on my discussion board and it timed out after 30 seconds. Maybe just too much on one page. That whole shebang is downloaded every time the page is viewed or refreshed, which is the cause of the slowness and does add to any bandwidth usage limits you have. Every page VIEW is WAY over a megabyte. You can try to break it up into multiple pages to reduce those effects if you have that option, or you can try what I posted earlier for a dedicated discussion board.

Miami River Rat		17-Jan-2010 15:23
Largo: Best wishes and happy landings! What you are doing is admirable.

Miami Girl		17-Jan-2010 14:34
Good going Al, I don't doubt you'll "get the call" maybe after the physical needs are met and people start having those PTSD problems, especially the kids. I've heard that an earthquake can effect children for the rest of their lives (more than any other natural disaster). It's the sound of one that's so terrifying to them.

rizona Al		17-Jan-2010 11:15
LARGO: You Go Girl! I am on the National DIsaster Providers List for Behavioral Health Professionals and have discussed and with my wife and we are in agreement that if I "get the call" I am packing my gear and heading to Haiti. Alan Ogus, Ph.D.,Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Fran		17-Jan-2010 08:12
LARGO, Peace be with you and all who travel with you.

parks		17-Jan-2010 04:53
GOD BLESS YOU LARGO

Mary		17-Jan-2010 03:48
Nike, I'm glad you understand. And besides me, my husband of 40 years, is very jealous, and he would not approve of me having my picture in a column, of a memories site and such. But I would Like to continue reading what you all write, and I will surely write my fair share to you nice people. There were several Polly Davis Cafeterias, back in the 50's, but the one I went to with my parents, as a Little girl, was in Coral Gables, just south of Miracle Mile, and east of Lejeune Road. I do miss Miami, and the warm climate. Little Rock, where I Live, is so cold, in the winter. But I see that Miami, was pretty cold, this winter, but still nothing like Little Rock. But it's our home now, for many years, so I think we are planted here, until the Lord calls us home. Praise The Lord, He's our salvation. Mary.

Miami Girl		17-Jan-2010 00:01
Largo: I'm sending prayers your way - everyone needs all they can get down there. Also gave a little donation to Doctors Without Borders, an excellent charity folks.

LARGO		16-Jan-2010 23:27
parks...HI IT'S ME LARGO...I AM IN A SMALL PLANE WITH MY BF & BF...BEST FRIEND PIOLET (TRAUMA NURSE...MALE FOR THOSE WHO THINK ONLY WOMEN ARE NURSES)...AND BF...BOY FRIEND ...PEDS ORTHOPAEDICS... JUST SEND MONEY AND PRAYERS ...WE ARE GOIN IN...GOD LOVES HAITIANS........LARGO

Nike		16-Jan-2010 17:14
Mary, Thank you and I do understand. If you haven't been to Miami since 1970, you absolutely wouldn't recognize it. However, it is worth going back to revisit your memories. I guess that's what we do on this website. Regarding the Polly Davis Cafeteria, if it was at NW 127th and Biscayne, there is a picture of it on the website under resturants.

Mary		16-Jan-2010 16:57
Hello All. Nike, I remember as a little girl, going to a Polly Davis Cafeteria, in Coral Gables, with my mom and dad, and my sister, and the food there was so good. And then in later years, we went to Morrison's Cafeteria, in the Cutler Ridge Mall, and their food was very tasty also. So I was always cafeteria oriented. I left Miami, in 1970, and have not been back since, but I am sure that many changes have taken place. A picture of me, may be a problem, simply because I am very modest, and do not like sharing pictures with strangers, no offense intended. Do take care. Mary.

whitebelt		16-Jan-2010 16:28
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=CNG.882d8e2d4dc367b547bef69011e81454.431&show_article=1 Maybe they have been trying, but they ran out of supplies. The Carl Vinson aircraft carrier appears to have been making direct deliveries. Interesting comment the commander said about some relief agencies wanting to do their own deliveries.

Parks		16-Jan-2010 02:35
Sorry, I meant to say "after Katrina". Too many storms. I can't keep them straight.

Nike		16-Jan-2010 02:19
Mary, Welcome to Miami Memories. Why not consider uplaoding a photo to the Miami Rogues Gallery? Even your comment about managing a cafeteria brings back fond memories of Miami. From 1957 - 1959, I sold the Miami News after school during the week and the Miami Herald on Saturday nights at the corner of SW 27th Ave and 8th Street. They built a Toby's Cafeteria. I lnved to go into the kitchen and smell the breads coming out of the ovens. I never ate there but it was a great memory.

Parks		16-Jan-2010 02:08
Welcome Mary! Whitebelt, I bet the Coast Guard is already on the job. Those guys don't wait to be asked, they just go where they are needed. I understand that there were two cutters near Haiti when it happened. If they are big they'll have helicopters aboard and they'll be working. After Andrew the Miami Coasties sent a helicopter without anyone asking. They were one of the first there and picked a lot of people off roofs. I have tremendous respect for the Coasties.

Jeff		16-Jan-2010 02:07
Whitebelt, do you remember the ORIGINAL definition of "SNAFU"? That should say it all. Sadly, it's going to get worse in Haiti before it gets better. Arizona Al--thanks for doing your part. Everyone else: Make a donation! If not through the location I'd listed, at least somewhere!

whitebelt		15-Jan-2010 23:25
I can not understand why they haven't started using helicopters to drop pallets of food and water in the neighborhoods in Haiti. What is this sorry excuse about the roads being so bad? Drop supplies in there now. They will sort it out themselves. Who cares if it may be looted or not distributed according to the rules. Anything, especially water, is better than nothing. My sister was stuck out near Richmond Naval Air Station after Andrew. For two weeks people in those devastated areas watched helicopters fly from it overhead with people scoping out the scene. While they were down there thirsty and stranded. Haven't they learned a damned thing? Drop the damned stuff where the people are who need it.

Charles Knight		15-Jan-2010 21:38
Hi Mary, welcome to the "club". Parks, they caught a sixteen foot Anaconda just west of here the other day...He (she?) was very lethargic from the cold. The local residents had been wondering what had happened to all the ducks that had recently disappeared. Now they know!

Mary		15-Jan-2010 18:56
Hello, My name , is Mary, and I grew up in Miami, in the Westchester area. I went to West Miami Jr High, and Graduated from Coral Park High School, in The Class Of 1966. Went to The U of M, Got A Degree in Business Administration, Got Married, and moved to North Little Rock, Arkansas, where my Husband was from. And I Now Manage A Luby's Cafeteria, in the Mall near my Home. I found this site, and have enjoyed reading all of the most interesting things you all say. I will be reading on here, and soon , I just might address one of you. Mary.

whitebelt		15-Jan-2010 14:55
Don, I broke the links to those pictures and it hasn't made much difference in the load speed. As I mentioned earlier it may be best to delete or modify those links to see if it improves. There ARE a lot of comments on this page. Maybe the architecture of pbase isn't so good for a discussion board. It does contribute a lot of weight to your storage limits and bandwidth usage. I set up space for you on my site some time back and gave you the keys to it. We can throw a discussion board you can run in it very fast. One like I threw up for geezers, which is a very simple board to maintain, or one even more elegant. Perhaps we can move these messages over to it and then you can just link to it from here for discussions. Not much of a learning curve administering that Simple Machines Forum software. It is free and unlimited space for at least the next 267 days. The nice thing is it is portable. It can be moved without losing anything, and backed up. If you don't want to admin it all of the time you can designate other members as admins or moderators to keep it cleaned up. If you prefer, maybe someone else wants to give it a try and you can link to them. Got plenty of space. Any regulars on here that wants to give it or a personal blog a try can contact me at webmaster@awehican.org. A free training ground with almost no restrictions. What is created can be moved to most any web hosting site. If you have an existing domain not being used, it can be pointed to that space. Just needs to be setup within the next month. I may be offline for a quite a while starting next month if my house purchase goes through.

Arizona Al		15-Jan-2010 14:17
Jeff: Have allready made a donation through the Mesa Stake Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Sisters Relief Society. I certainly trust that the Mormon Church is a reputable and trustworthy organization. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Parks		15-Jan-2010 04:36
Did anyone else notice that Largo used some lower case letters? Largo, are you feeling OK? Rat, the scientists are hoping that the cold will thin the population of the boa constrictors or anacondas or what ever those giant snakes are that have taken up residence in the Everglades.

Nike		15-Jan-2010 02:13
Miami Girl, See for yourself. Go to Robert is Here . com without the spaces.

Jeff		15-Jan-2010 01:56
I'm going to interrupt all of the weather reports, recipes, personal ramblings and Miami nostalgia with something that is of human importance... The recent earthquake in Haiti is a catastrophy of immense proportion: 50,000 predicted to dead, the infrastructure of Port au Prince in total collapse; desperation mounting by the hour. IF (and this is the operative word) you have considered making a relief donation but were unsure of whom to trust - my friends at the Greater North Miami Chamber of Commerce have a relief fund set up. I know them... and I trust them. This is NOT about race, religion, politics or personal idiology... this is a situation with death, starvation, disease and human suffering... Please - if you can... send a check to the following address: Greater North Miami Chamber of Commerce 13100 West Dixie Hwy. North Miami, FL 33161 Make the check out to GREATER NORTH MIAMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE and mark your check's memo space "Haitian Relief Fund". You may wish to enclose a note that Jeff Levine recommended you donate to their effort... Don, I KNOW this isn't a solicitation space, but PLEASE leave this request up, won't you? Accfording to news reports, on a "good day", 80% of the Haitian people live on $2.00 per day! We NEED to do something to help them in this time of dire conditions. Thanks, everyone...

Miami Girl		14-Jan-2010 23:13
You'd think us old folks would have more patience - but it's sometimes difficult. Keep up the good work Don - we all love you and this site. Oh how I want to go get one of those key lime shakes!!!

Charles Knight		14-Jan-2010 21:55
I remember sitting down to write a letter, placing it in an envelope, putting a stamp on it, walking to the mailbox, and after the postman picked it up I'd wait for a response. When I got a response within two weeks I'd say to myself..."Wow, that was quick"! Don, "you rock"!

whitebelt		14-Jan-2010 21:36
Don, no one is picking on you. A photo site is no different than others. This particular page is text based, so theoretically should load faster. Looking back through it I see something that may cause a problem, though. Those photos of mine that showed up. When I posted those I just put in a link. Evidently an option is set to automatically to link to and display that photo. Those photos are on my personal web site, which is actually rather fast, but it could be slowing things down through the linkage. If you can change the option where it automatically displays linked photos it may speed things up. If not, go in and edit the post and remove the link I posted on those photos, or change it so the link is broken up. That dotjpg or other extension at the end is probably the trigger to retrieve and display. Put spaces in it. Web pages usually work on scripts that retrieve data from databases or other locations. That is why some commercial sites with a lot of ads you go to take a while to load. They have to make connections to a location with the ad stored on it. They aren't storing it locally. Your pbase stuff is stored locally for the most part. I checked out some of their other galleries and most were pretty fast. I think the problem is that auto display of links, as they probably wait for it to load before displaying the complete page. You might give the above a try to see if it helps. I can break the link to what I have, but that may just hang it up while it looks for it and doesn't find it. We love you, Don.

Don Boyd		14-Jan-2010 20:32
Miami River Rat: thanks for the info - I saw Tallapoosa county and didn't realize you were in Alabama and not Jawjuh. I thought it was worth a shot to ask. Regarding the slowness of the site comments: I've said it before a few times in the past, and I'll say it again one more time in 2010 to refresh some memories. This is a (pretend the next three words are in bold 12 inches tall with flashing green neon lights for background) ----- PHOTO HOSTING SITE ----- . . . . . and . . . . . NOT a chat room site. It is owned and operated by PBase and I, as one of their many customers, have zero, zip, and zilch control over how fast various pages load on their servers. I work on the site daily numerous times per day and some pages load fast as hell and some don't, such as adding and deleting comments. It has been that way most of the time since I started doing business with PBase in 2002. I am not a techno nerd but I have been using PC's extensively almost every day since 1987 and I suspect that the primary purpose and concern of PBase is the storage of photos since it is a "photo hosting site" and that gallery comment additions and deletions have lower priority on their servers. I built this site to display a large volume of photos to preserve a lot of memories on the net for the enjoyment of many people and I have accomplished my goals because PBase has more than served my needs since 2002. I have tried other photo hosting sites and I think their layouts and flexibility suck compared to PBase and I am not inclined to spend months of time that I don't have to move 6576 images, and all the comments under them, to some other internet site just to improve the handling of comments by viewers when comments are not my main purpose in having a site. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy seeing all the comments that people post (and this comments gallery has only 1/50th of the comments that are in another comments gallery on the site) but the display of photos comes first in my opinion and apparently that of PBase. If it really floats your boat, and trust me, I'm all for people floating their boat any way they can, heh-heh, to mention the slowness of the pages loading then go for it but there is nothing I as a customer can do about it so I won't be responding. I'm sure other PBase customers complain like hell to PBase about photo pages not loading fast enough, and maybe some bitch about their comments taking too long to post, and that PBase's owners/management are aware of the problem. However, they have been in business for 10.5 years and are now hosting 121+ million photos for their customers so I presume they know what they're doing. End of rant, carry on..... Don

whitebelt		14-Jan-2010 20:26
Don, it appears you have an overloaded server. Perhaps pbase can move you to a less crowded section, or up their facilities.

LARGO		14-Jan-2010 20:19
OK ...GUESS I'LL CHIME IN TOO...YEAH..TOOK OVER 2 MIN TO GET ON SITE (made a cup of hot lemonade..my winter summer drink.. just nuked)...AND OVER A MINUTE TO 'ADD COMMENT' TO MAKE THIS COMMENT. I WAS CONCERNED AS I HAVE A '05 IBOOK G4...AND I WAS WORRIED IT'S LITTLE CIRCUITS WERE OVERLOADED. I LOVE THIS LITTLE MAC LAPTOP AND REALLY DO NOT WANT TO GET A NEW ONE AS YET...SO WONDER WHATS GOING ON ??

Nike		14-Jan-2010 16:37
I suppose Mrs. McKee (my 7th grade English teacher at Shenandoah Jr. High) was right, I ocasionaly mis-smell a word or too. I will check my smelling in the future before clicking on the "Add Comment."

Jackie		14-Jan-2010 15:34
Whitebelt... I'm also having to wait a while for the page to load.

Nike		14-Jan-2010 11:08
Leighton, There is no doubt about the Key Lime shake at Robert is here tasting like drinking a Key Lime pie. It is worht the drive and the calories. While you are there, visit the Nike missile site about five miles further down the road just inside Everglades National Park. You can call 305-242-7700 to get the tour schedule.

Miami River Rat		14-Jan-2010 05:49
Don: I didn't know those fine folks. They were in Tallapoosa City, Georgia. I'm in Tallapoosa County, Alabama. I'm about 80 miles down-river from them. (Both city and county get their name from the Tallapoosa River) The cold spell might be a good opportunity to lower the population of some of the invasive foreign species in south Florida. Those falling lizards, for instance could be.....But then the PETA people would freak out. Oh, well. Wool socks are good!

Fran		14-Jan-2010 04:23
Loading is slow for me too. Wow, warming up tomorrow morning low 40's. High's in the low 50's, cloudy and rain expected in the afternoon. Frozen lizards falling, brings to mind, rain drops are falling on my head...

Parks		14-Jan-2010 02:36
Hi Guys, This cold weather brings the manatees into the canals looking for warm water. There is a spot in Coral Gables, right across the street from Coral Gables High School where they like to gather. I stopped there yesterday and counted more than fifteen of them. There was a young one near shore that liked to roll over on his back and expose his belly to the Sun. It was a pretty amazing sight.

whitebelt		13-Jan-2010 23:55
Charlis, you should find some in Walmart automotive or most any auto parts store. It is called Prestone Windshield De-Icer. You can also get de-icing windshield washer fluid. You would think someone sells it for the Yankees going back home. You should have taken pictures of the ice for Don's collection.

charlis		13-Jan-2010 23:14
Cold weather and FL... S FL and lizards falling out of trees! They are saying to leave them alone, do not try to "revive" them and put them into some brush or back into the trees them fell from. Here in Central FL we are having pipes freezing, bursting, etc. A lot of sink holes are due to the farmers draining the aquifer to keep their plants alive. Temps have yet to reach the predicted highs... today was supposed to be in the 60's... never made it out of the 50's!

charlis		13-Jan-2010 23:04
whitebelt... do you think I can find the spray on de-icer in FL! I can't remember spending this many days in a row scraping off ice!

charlis		13-Jan-2010 22:56
whitebelt... this "slow" problem happens every year... might be a problem with the "server" that Don uses...

charlis		13-Jan-2010 22:55
whitebelt... I am having the same problem with slow to load page.

whitebelt		13-Jan-2010 22:23
Don, maybe it is just me, but for the last few weeks it takes a half minute for your page to load, that long to bring up the add a comment and to post it. That happens on different computers here, and on different operating systems. Really slow. Anyone else with that problem?

whitebelt		13-Jan-2010 22:19
Should have posted this with that last post. http://www.nmfilm.com/filming/incentives/ New Mexico is an underpopulated state and has trouble finding qualified people for a variety of endeavors. It has its charms, though.

whitebelt		13-Jan-2010 22:13
Leighton, there has been a big push in New Mexico to attract the film industry, on the state and local levels. Supposed to be third or something like that now in location shoots, I think. They are trying to build some more studios around Santa Fe in addition to attracting location shoots. Have you investigated any opportunities out there?

Leighton		13-Jan-2010 20:17
OK, back to key lime milkshakes. The rest is creepy. Were the shakes like drinking a pie? I'm curious. I'm getting closer and closer to taking a drive down to Miami - nothing to lose....

whitebelt		13-Jan-2010 15:35
Don, there are some deservedly cynical comments in that article about foreclosure bidding. New Orleans did something similar with tax lien sales a couple of years ago. Was a big success for them. Beware the fine print.

whitebelt		13-Jan-2010 14:35
Don, there are some deservedly cynical comments in that article about foreclosure bidding. New Orleans did something similar with tax lien sales a couple of years ago. Was a big success for them. Beware the fine print.

Don Boyd		13-Jan-2010 05:35
For all of you wishing to move back to Miami while home prices are dirt cheap, the county has signed a contract with a company to auction off homes online. Dade has 110,000 homes in foreclosure with an additional 7,000 per month being added according to the article. ( ! ) This is the link to the Miami Herald story about it: http://www.miamiherald.com/business/story/1420075.html You have to register in advance at: http://www.miamidade.realforeclose.com Miami River Rat, do you know anyone in the town of Tallapoosa? A couple that grew up with me in Hialeah moved there 20 years ago or so. They owned the NAPA store in town, now run by their son. She passed away almost 4 years ago and I have a site with photos of them at:http://www.pbase.com/lovingmemories/liz Have you ever run into them? The Herald ran a nice story about the death of Jeff's friend Al Kaplan. The article can be read at: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/obituaries/miami-dade/story/1418679.html I have finally been to Robert Is Here in Florida City. Twice in fact, once last week when my mom-in-law bought a ton of oranges, grapefruit, Key Limes and other things and I bought the famed Key Lime milk shake and I'm now addicted to them. We went back yesterday and I bought 2 Key Lime milkshakes, one to drink and one to freeze for sipping later. Robert even posed for a photo for me which I will add to the site soon. He said he has been standing there behind the counter facing to the east for the past 50 years and everything before Hurricane Andrew is a blur to him. I can't believe the variety of fruits, jams, jellies, preserves, spreads, etc. that he has for sale there. On the way home via Krome Avenue we stopped at the Knaus Berry Farm and bought loaves of bread, cinnamon buns and a pie or two. Don Walking again, with a temporary limp, but walking by myself in regular shoes - the cold weather for the past week or so doesn't help at all .

Nike		13-Jan-2010 03:28
I thnk the men in England need the de-icer

whitebelt		13-Jan-2010 01:30
Alan, the last time i went to Vegas the dam sure looked low. "The Colorado River is forecast to have another sub-par year after recording the 10 consecutive driest years since record keeping began more than a century ago." http://www.krqe.com/dpp/news/environment/below-average-runoff-in-nm-rivers?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+krqe-abq-santafe+%28KRQE+News+13+-+Albuquerque%2FSanta+Fe+Metro%29 I am curious as to how those guys could even get into those pipes if aroused. They aren't very big. The pipes, anyhow. You would also think that at the first sign of distress they would have been able to disengage easily enough. Something Darwinian about that? Charlis, get a bottle of spray de-icer. Costs about 2 or 3 bucks at WalMart. Should last you for years there. Sure beats scraping.

Charles Knight		13-Jan-2010 00:02
I seem to recall one about a guy in Daytona and a hot tub some years back...

charlis		12-Jan-2010 23:31
nike... a coworker of mine, from GB, laughed so loud that her boss came running out of the office! Neither one of us could get upo the nerve to tell him why were laughing so hard... and then she went on to tell the story of a man who got caught in a vacuum cleaner... what is it with men from GB?

Nike		12-Jan-2010 22:42
Charlis, I couldn't resist reading the article. It is hilarious. The interesting thig is, under the UK socialized medicine, the goverment refused to cover it since it was "elective" surgery. Sound like he had a pipe dream.

charlis		12-Jan-2010 22:33
Charles... took ten minutes to scrape the ice off the car windows this AM! My blue car was totally white... in Tampa!!!! For once I wish I had been wrong about my weather predictions.

charlis		12-Jan-2010 22:29
ike... regarding certain parts of the anatomy... did you see the story out of the UK about a man who stuck that certain part in a pipe! Paramedics were called and they had to call someone to cut the pipe. At the hospital they had to call someone else to remove the pipe!

Nike		12-Jan-2010 14:09
Charles K>, Be careful. Parts of the anatomy have been known to dissappear in 36 degree water.

Charles Knight		12-Jan-2010 13:12
Hello all, a little warmer in central Florida this morning...A tepid thirty six, maybe I'll hit the beach LOL! Al...Are we "flashing back"?

Aeizona AL		12-Jan-2010 10:11
Nike: The world is not only small it is comcomitantly flat. It simply amazes me how we are all interconnected. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Guest		11-Jan-2010 23:48
Miami River Rat, Never been there but heard it's a beautiful there. Arizona Al, Right you are. We were sweethearts at Shenandoah from the 7th grade. Her parents were fine with all the "puppy-love" until I ask her to marry me after joining the Army. Somehow, I went from being her sweetheart to that "Army punk." The engagement did't last too long. She graduated from Univ of Florida and returned to south Miami. She married a guy from Key Largo where they had a bait and tackle shop on U.S. there. One always wonders what would have been. However, I am so happy with my wife, I can't imagine anything being any better. I married her for better or worse. With Nancy, everything is always "better."

charlis		11-Jan-2010 23:29
Largo... it was in the mid 20' in Tampa when I went to work this morning! We moved to MB in 62' so we could have fresh grapefruit... that first year we lost the "crop" from 3 trees due to a freeze, in 64 we lost it to Cleo! I was so sick of grapefruit juice!

LARGO		11-Jan-2010 21:58
IT WAS 24 DEGRES HERE ACROSS THE MANTANSAS RIVER THIS A.M....ALL MY BANANAS, ELEPHANT EARS, CALADIUMS..WERE IN DIRE STRAITS..(LAYING FLAT ON THERE LIL ASSES)...HOWEVER MY RUBY RED GRAPEFRUITS, TANGELOS...AND PERSIAN LIMES WERE AT THEIR PRIME...I THINK THEY WERE ACTUALLY SMILING..IN TERMS OF A BOUNTIFUL HARVEST...I LOVE MOTHER NATURE...SHE KNEW I NEEDED A FEW PERSIAN LIMES FOR A REALLY GOOD GIN AND TONIC...OR VODKA TONIC...WHATEVER...IT'S REALLY CHILLY.......LARGO

Miami River Rat		11-Jan-2010 20:14
Nike: I'm in Tallapoosa County, Alabama. About 35 miles due west of West Point, Ga, which is on the Al/Ga. state line.

whitebelt		11-Jan-2010 15:25
Miami Girl, yes I was TDY at Ft. Gordon. Life around large military installations tends to be better. A better grade of people overall due to their life experiences.

Miami Girl		11-Jan-2010 14:36
Whitebelt: It's still hot and humid (we had 3 straight days of over 100 and I never remember 100 degrees in Miami), we considered it "our summer" since we didn't have much of one up here in NY. Yes, uncomfortable at times down there but that's what I grew up with and thank God for AC! Were you TDY at Ft. Gordon? We do want to retire around a military base/post, being retired military we just don't want to get away from the life! Al: Somehow I knew you'd remember Trula!

whitebelt		11-Jan-2010 13:14
Miami Girl, I was TDY for several months around Augusta back in the 70's. HOT and HUMID and little breeze back then. Hopefully it has improved since then, but it doesn't appear so. Had a interesting and fun time there, though. If you see Annie tell her she got me good. http://www.city-data.com/city/Augusta-Richmond-County-Georgia.html

Arizona Al		11-Jan-2010 08:37
Nike: Her full name was Trula York. We were in the 1964 Palmetto Graduating Class. I remember we were in the same homeroom and civics class. I have not seen her or had any contact with her since graduation in June 1964. I remember her as a stunning brunette. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami Girl		11-Jan-2010 01:17
Nike: Answers (1) Augusta area (2) I remember a Trudy but no Trula --- sorry. Maybe AZ Al remembers her?

Nike		10-Jan-2010 23:32
Miami Girl, Two questions: 1. Where in Georgia do ya'll plan on moving? 2. When at Palmetto HS in 1964, did you know a beautiful girl whose name was Trula? Don't ask!

Miami Girl		10-Jan-2010 22:41
That's ENOUGH braggin' AZ Al!!! It's 9 degrees here in NY, but my Mother who grew up not far from here in Syracuse said she was never as cold as that first 1954 winter in Miami, with two little wall heaters in a newly built (in December) concrete block house - I think it was probably because those blocks didn't have the time in the summer sun to warm up. To this day I love the smell of moth balls, it takes me back to those wool blankets of course she had them from living up here) and the hot water bottle warming the freezing sheets....so cozy once the bed warmed up! Nike: You're correct about the tax dollars paying for all the snow removal and road repair, that's why we're leaving here in two years and headed to Roberta's Peach Tree State, OMG those peaches we bought at the roadside stand last July were to die for!!!

charlis		10-Jan-2010 21:31
whitebelt, what you said about small towns is true. A lot of my fellow coworkers who are retiring are doing same. Unfortunately I have a few years before I can even afford to retire... and need the real estate situation to "boom" again so I can sell my condo that I bought just before it crashed. I already have my place picked out... with my old highschool friend in W VA or my old home town in OH. High for today in Tampa made it to 42!

whitebelt		10-Jan-2010 20:24
Roberta, I haven't heard that expression for a while. Be nice to witches. I have met some that were pretty warm at times. This global warming is a real bummer, huh? Hopefully I will get some good news early next week and will be moving to the high plains of Colorado within a few weeks. Out where the buffalo roamed. For those on limited incomes or fixing to retire on one, there is a lot to be said for those little towns out in the middle of nowhere. Some very cheap houses and lower costs of living and some nice little towns out there.

charlis		10-Jan-2010 16:15
Crandon Park Zoo... I remember my first visit there. I was used to the Central Park and Brooklyn/Bronx zoos so my first impression of the zoo was not a good one... until I saw that huge turtle! In OH I had this huge box turtle, Herman, who adopted us. He, my dog Rinty, and a family of rabbits would be seen playing together. Yeah, I know, strange behavior for any of them. One day we heard a banging on the screen porch door. It was Herman. Eventually the patio became his home (an aquarium inside the house during the winter) and when Rinty wanted out, darned if Herman wasn't by the door, too! And... the rabbits would be waiting for them! I heard from an old friend a few years later that Herman was still around, and living on the patio. 31 degrees this morning with 20's for tomorrow. Warmed up to a nice sultry 37 by 11AM.

Nike		10-Jan-2010 15:48
Miami River Rat Are you in Georgia or Alabama?

Arizona AL		10-Jan-2010 15:32
Roberta: Thanks for the support:) And now the forecast for The Valley of the Sun for the next few days... highs in the mid 70s during the day and night time lows in the 50s. And to think that friends and associates thought that I was the crazy one for moving to Phoenix in 1995! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and waiting for the 70s of January to be replaced by the 80s in February in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami River Rat		10-Jan-2010 13:56
Hornets in the house.... To answer Roberta's question, when you come home to a house full of hornets (and your wife, the mother of two small children at the time turns into an even bigger hornet and the kids are screaming,) here's what you do: First, cuss your own stupidity. Then get wife and kids back outside into car. Go to feed & seed store and buy two cans of wasp killer. Then return to house and do battle with hornets while wife shouts comments from outside through the closed windows. NOT FUN! Jackie, our weather is probably much the same. I'm about 30 miles west of West Point, Georgia, so not far away.

Roberta Perry Hughes		10-Jan-2010 07:20
Hello, from Wadley, Georgia. It is cold as a witch's tit in a brass bra, here; been in the 20's, or lower, at night. Wind chill factor makes it colder, during the day, with a high of maybe 38'. Lewis stays warm in bed, but I am up, on "night shift," to hear his call. Have to run the heat, which is a propane gas furnace, dependent upon electricity....so, no heat, if the power goes out. That's why we hate ice storms that cause a power outtage, here in the South. Unless you have a working fireplace, & cords of firewood stacked up, you are in deep doo doo, if there is no electricity.....worse, of course, for those homes that are total electric. At least, one can still cook, & heat water, with a gas range...& make hot beverages....hooray....! We have a couple of those electric radiator heaters, that heat contained oil within them, to supplement the central heat. Last year, we got by, just using them, for the most part, & rarely turn the thermostat up. It was a very mild Winter, especially compared to this one. When we lived on S.W. 55th Street, in Miami, all of the houses, in that particular Mackle project, had a small furnace heater, in the hall. I remember it being in use, one Thanksgiving, around 1955 or '56. It sure felt good, too, to have a source of heat, if needed. We used Roper gas; our neighbors, the Smiths, used Ohio Blue Flame. Are those companies still in business....? Otherwise, we held our Perry family reunions, every November, at Crandon Park, & I can recall going to the beach, on Christmas Day. The weather would be balmy, & like living in Paradise. Hawaii could feel no better, than a Miami Fall or Winter, back then. How we loved Crandon Park....! The picnic area was wonderful, & not expesive, to reserve a section, for a particular date. It was so very family-friendly.....& there were so many families, back then, all together, & enjoying outings, such as Crandon Park, or Matheson Hump Beach, as it was called then, or Tahiti Beach. I miss seeing families together, with their kids. It is a rare sight, today. Times surely have changed, haven't they...? Hope y'all are well, & feeling good, too, & warm, if you are in a cold climate.....try not to hate Az Al....LOL. Lordy! Miami River Rat....! I cannot begin to imagine a swarm of hornets in the house! How on earth did you deal with that....? Relate, please, the rest of the story.... Hugs to you all.....Take care of your precious selves....!!

Miami River Rat		10-Jan-2010 05:29
Miami house with no heat....oh yeah! My grandma used to hang sheets over the doorways to the kitchen and fire up the oven in her gas stove. Many a winter morning I'd jump out of bed, gather up my clothes and run down the hall to the blessed warmth of the kitchen.

Parks		10-Jan-2010 01:43
Hi Guys, My outside thermometer says 38 and it's raining here in South Miami. Is this what it's like to live up north? I had to put out heating pads for my poor cats to curl up on. No heat in the house, it is Miami after all.

Nike		09-Jan-2010 20:16
Jackie, I can't seem to find your picture in the Miami Rogues Gallery. Why not? By the way, I'm not too far away in Atlanta. When people from "elsewhere" complain about how we shut everything down at the least ice or snow, I remind them it is because we don't soend our tax dollars on expensive equipment that tears the roads up which have to be constantly repaired.

charlis		09-Jan-2010 19:38
Woke up to 37 degrees at 5:30 in Tampa... it's now 2:30PM and it's 36! We had a light rain all day at the chemical collection. But, if you go to baynews9.com you can see pics of snow that fell in neighboring counties... I got a kick out of one pic.... a small snowman on a picnic table. And FL is a sub-tropical state!

Fran		09-Jan-2010 18:59
Lone Star report: Sunny, temps in the 30s. Some ice last night, the skies are clear with no hope of snow.:)

Jackie		09-Jan-2010 15:20
Miami Girl...Here in the Atlanta area we have MANY transplants from the north. They just laugh at us when we complain about temeratures in the teens and twentys. But even though in Canton we didn't get the snow that Atlanta did, we still have plenty of icy roads and sliding cars to contend with. Our counties just aren't prepared to deal with the occasional cold winter conditions, so there are a lot of closings, schools, businesses, public transportation. Miami River Rat... Sounds like your part of Alabama has the same weather history as our part of Georgia.

Miami River Rat		09-Jan-2010 14:41
Hey Largo: Along those lines, several years ago, in the dead of winter, I found a perfect, undamaged hornet's nest hanging from the branch of a bush. I cut the branch off, brought the thing home and hung it on the wall for display. About two days later I came home from work and the house was swarming with newly hatched hornets! TI guess they thought the warm house was announcing spring. Anyway, live and learn...

LARGO		09-Jan-2010 13:19
BRRRRR.....IT'S VERY COLD HERE IN ST. AUGUSTINE...BEFORE THE BIG BLAST HIT I BROUGHT ALL MY ORCHIDS IN...AND AFTER AWHILE VARIOUS ANOLES AND SMALL FROGS BEGAN TO AWAKE FROM HIBERNATION...in the house..SO AT PRESENT (when I can catch them before the cat)...THEY"RE RESIDING IN THE OLD 10 GALLON AQUARIUM UNTIL IT WARMS ENOUGH TO RELEASE INTO THE WILDS....LOL at myself!!!

Miami River Rat		09-Jan-2010 04:43
Here in central Alabama it was 16 degrees last night and they predict 11 for tonight. This is the worst cold spell since 1985. It got down to 3 one night in January of '85. Really, once it gets down into the teens it's all just...COLD! Thankful for a good wood burning heater and lots of firewood cut and stacked up!

miami girl		09-Jan-2010 01:39
Charlis, we aim to please, and you know the old saying "be careful what you wish for" we're happy to share. I'm freezing my butt off in up-state NY.

charlis		08-Jan-2010 19:43
Alan... and to think that I asked everyone up north to send me cooler weather a while back!

Arizona Al		08-Jan-2010 14:52
Temperatures in the low to mid 70s for the next several days in the Valley of the Sun. Times like this as opposed to the 110-115 degree days of Summer when I really appreciate living in the Sonoran Desert. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and a bit warm in Phoenix, Arizona.

charlis		07-Jan-2010 23:19
Flight delays... out of Tampa! We do not have de-icers... have to wait for the sun to come up! Frost was so heavy this morning that I had to scrape ice off the side windows! We have yet to get to the predicted highs.

whitebelt		07-Jan-2010 22:29
http://www.justnews.com/news/22152242/detail.html Frozen lizards falling out of trees. I was walking my dog back in the late 80's around Pinecrest on a cold morning when I had one of those Cuban Anoles fall at my feet as i passed under a tree. They are large lizards. After I figured out what was going on I picked it up and took it home. When it started to thaw out I put it at the base of a small tree in the yard. It warmed up and took off up the tree. Unfortunately a while later one of our cats got it. Brought it into the house and dropped it on the kitchen floor in front of us. To share with us I assumed. We told her thank you, but we just ate. Perhaps her friends might like some. Then I moved it outside.

Charles Knight		07-Jan-2010 22:29
I used to produce massive Halloween shows for several cities. I October of '93 we did a huge show for the city of Gainesville (Fl.) There were twelve scantily clad vampire hostess'. Their costumes consisted of black mini dresses, fishnet stockings, and heels. Those were some of the toughest ladies I've ever met, they worked for nine nights in freezing conditions...And not one of them ever complained, sure there were exclamations about the weather but never a complaint or call out. Ever since then I have used as many women as possible on the outdoor shows. Let's face it...Women are tough as well as smelling nice!

Guest		07-Jan-2010 22:16
Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, only backwards and in high heels.

whitebelt		07-Jan-2010 19:06
I remember going to a New Year's Parade back in the mid-60's. It was COLD and the wind was blowing. From that day on I had a much greater respect for women. How those women could ride those floats in a swimsuit in that frigid windy night air, and to keep smiling and waving for that whole parade is almost superhuman. Wow!! Add to that they can run and dance in high heels. Women are impressive. I froze my butt off just standing in the crowd with a coat on.

Fran		07-Jan-2010 18:24
Charles, Our lives are now affected by which way the wind is blowing. Right now, 20 to 30 mile per hour gusts, with a wind chill factor causing it to feel like 20 degrees. True, I love the cold, refreshes the human spirit. Looking forward to watching the Texas vs 'Bama game tonight. Oh, yeah, baby it's cold outside. :)

Fran		07-Jan-2010 18:24
Charles, Our lives are now affected by which way the wind is blowing. Right now, 20 to 30 mile per hour gusts, with a wind chill factor causing it to feel like 20 degrees. True, I love the cold, refreshes the human spirit. Looking forward to watching the Texas vs 'Bama game tonight. Oh, yeah, baby it's cold outside. :)

whitebelt		07-Jan-2010 18:07
:-) Charles, that was just a general statement about people getting spoiled. Of course it didn't apply to you. It was a fireman in this case, hairy legs and all.

Charles Knight		07-Jan-2010 17:15
Hey Whitebelt, I had my AC on for a total eleven days last summer. I choose to remain in my home state of Florida for the warm weather, if I want snow I'll move north. And they're called "Firefighters"...My wife is one, believe me when I tell you that she (along with her colleagues) does not like to be called a Fireman. As for being a "wuss" well...That's an opinion, and we all know what they say about opinions. Charles Knight feeling ornery and slighted in sunny Florida.

Jackie		07-Jan-2010 15:06
Weather report from north Georgia, 30 minutes north of Atlanta: Morning temps in the teens all this week, with highs in the mid 30's. Snow is expected late this morning and scattered throughout the day. This is the coldest we've been since moving from West Palm three years ago. The snow is exciting and fun because it is a rare event, but the lingering low temperatures, not so much!

whitebelt		07-Jan-2010 14:11
What a bunch of wusses, except for Fran. Walking from air conditioned houses to air conditioned cars to air conditioned offices has spoiled people rotten. Toughen up. The freeze helps kill fleas. A little shivering is good for you. Increases the white blood count. Went to WalMart the other day. Was in the low 30's. There was a fireman in the checkout line wearing shorts.

Charles Knight		07-Jan-2010 12:33
Possible snow flurries and sleet! Friday night in central Florida...The end is ear LOL!

Fran		07-Jan-2010 04:32
Charlis, when I think of the Santa suit, I think LifeSavers. Kinda fruit filled fun! Okay, I'm posting a weather report from the Lone Star State. Cold, in the 30's tonight, mild breeze and hard freeze tomorrow morning. We are expecting snow and ice on Thursday evening and Friday morning. I love it!

Fran		07-Jan-2010 04:32
Charlis, when I think of the Santa suit, I think LifeSavers. Kinda fruit filled fun! Okay, I'm posting a weather report from the Lone Star State. Cold, in the 30's tonight, mild breeze and hard freeze tomorrow morning. We are expecting snow and ice on Thursday evening and Friday morning. I love it!

charlis		06-Jan-2010 22:57
cold weather... nearly fell off my couch while listening to the forecast... possibility of snow or sleet this weekend... in Tampa! Record low for the day at 27 today! Brrrrrr. I haven't had to turn on the heat in years but when you find a fat, thick furred cat curled up in your heavy bathrobe, I guess it is time to turn on the heater. Predicting a high of 60 on Thursday... but they said today would be in the 50' and it never made it out of the 40's!

charlis		06-Jan-2010 22:52
Ray... the Mennonites... I think they are closer to Sarasota, otherwise I would have driven down there from Tampa for some home made Bott Boi for the holidays if they closer to Tampa.

charlis		06-Jan-2010 22:48
Don... Happy 2010 to you. I'll spend some time on Friday, maybe, and send you the gang requested pics of the old santa... giving you more time to catch up.

Miami River Rat		06-Jan-2010 05:29
I'll second what Charles Knight said: The Park Service has been a wolf in sheep's clothing, selling out the very area they are hired to protect. Another great book on the subject is "The Swamp.... The Everglades, Florida, and the Politics of Paradise" by Michael Grunwald. The glades is drying up while so much excess water is being diverted down the Saint Lucie canal that there are fish kills in the bay. The Park Service & Corps of Engineers could fix this in three hours by turning some valves. For decades they have refused to do so. Why? Sugar and development $$$$$.

Charles Knight		06-Jan-2010 03:37
Don, the Federal parks service is as crooked as any government entity ever was. I could spend hours relating all of the lies and deviations they have committed concerning the Glades, it's reclamation, and the promises they made (without EVER planning to keep) prior to stealing our land. They do not want to acknowledge that there was ever anything but pristine woods in the Glades. There are organizations out there that are that are fighting to preserve our history. Anyone interested should read the book "Florida's Vanishing Trail" by James Hammond, it is available at your local library. He is a friend and colleague. The book goes into great detail about the Glades and various points of historical significance along the Tamiami Trail, as well as the pioneers both famous and infamous of the Everglades. Were it up to the Parks service all of this fascinating and wonderful history would be erased forever.

Ray		06-Jan-2010 01:11
About the Mennonites... they have some great restaurants near Tampa if you're ever at the other end of Tamiami Trail. Of course excellent friendly service but also spotless. Great attention to detail. I was sort of expecting to find a new Comments Gallery for January... Don, any chance we could get you to start a new one for 2010? This one is getting long to load again. Thanks Happy New Year everyone! Ray

Don Boyd		06-Jan-2010 00:53
Welcome to 2910, I mean 2010, and a belated Happy New Year to everyone. I've finally unburied myself from a backlog of e-mails but I remain buried in old photos to add to this site plus aviation photos to add to the other site. Nike, thanks for the info regarding the Knaus Berry Farm. We still haven't gotten down there or to Robert is Here but will sometime later this week. I hope that the freeze down here tonight doesn't cause too much damage for the farmers across the state and county. I saw an announcement yesterday from the Everglades park superintendent about the public tours resuming for the Nike site in their domain and he's still spreading the erroneous BS about the Carol City/Miramar site now being a Publix shopping center. I'll send you the announcement privately via e-mail. Regarding my broken leg scenario, tomorrow the doc should give me the okay to walk without the orthopedic boot which I've been doing for the past two weeks because the boot makes me feel like I'm going to throw my back out. The walking is slow to medium and with a temporary limp but far better than going places in a wheelchair or on crutches. Whitebelt, I'm going to pass on posting that link in the header of this comments gallery. Some folks don't have time to go through every page of photos on this site as it is and I just don't have the inclination to send them on to yet another site that is non-Miami related. Roberta, I hope that all is well at your home. And here's a link to a sick story about some of the people we have living in the boonies of Northwest Dade county west of Hialeah Gardens, Miami Lakes, etc.: http://www.miaminewtimes.com/2010-01-07/news/northwest-miami-dade-gunslingers-shoot-endangered-wood-storks-for-target-practice/ Don

whitebelt		06-Jan-2010 00:36
Has been down to to the teens and single digits here in the mountains of New Mexico. Kind of nice. Not cold in the house. Sun comes up and you can go out in a jacket. Gets up to the 30's-40's during the day. You can actually start sweating working outside. The joy of low humidity.

Charles Knight		06-Jan-2010 00:00
28 degrees in the AM in Satellite Beach tomorrow, 20 with the wind chill. Brrrr!

charlis		03-Jan-2010 18:21
River Rat... glad you liked your trip to Tampa. The stadium is a bit unusual, isn't it. How many stadiums have a pirate ship? I'm watching the Bucs now and wondering where they are playing... yes, I know it is a home game but the way everyone is dressed you would thinks they were playing up north somewhere... temp is only 45 degrees!

Miami River Rat		03-Jan-2010 05:09
Happy belated New Year to all! I've been down to Tampa and watched my Auburn Tigers win the Outback Bowl game over Northwestern. One of the best games I've ever seen. That Raymond James Stadium at Tampa is as good as they come. Plenty of space, convenient and great seating. Parks, thanks for the tip on the bait. I'll be sure to let y'all know how this venture turns out. It now looks like early February for the everglades trip. I can hardly wait!

Parks		02-Jan-2010 03:40
Rat, A friend of mine fished Flamingo and Lake Ingram a couple of days ago. He caught a lot of snook. I asked him what he used and he said D.O.A. brand artifical shrimp. I hear a lot of people use these now. He used a white one as the water was very tannic and it was hard for the fish to see. The little gold spoons you mentioned should work well in those conditions also. I wish I was going with you.

whitebelt		01-Jan-2010 17:36
Happy New Year, everyone!

charlis		01-Jan-2010 16:42
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE! May the new year be one filled with wealth... of love, family, friendships, good luck, good health. As to the Santa suit... my daughter saw the pics (which I will send to Don later this weekend) and told me to keep it.... did not want to scare her boys. Guess my sister will get it as her kids are grown.

Arizona AL		01-Jan-2010 13:57
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO THE ROGUES! Parks: Thanks for the G-2 on Knaus Berry Farm and Redland Elementary School. I went to Redlands elementary from 1st to 4th grade and then my family moved from Naranja to Cutler Ridge and I attended Cutler Ridge Elementary in the 5th and 6th grade. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix ( a long way from Miami) Arizona

Fran		01-Jan-2010 05:41
Wishing all, a happy and healthy New Year!

Leighton		01-Jan-2010 05:31
If only it WERE 2910.

Roberta Perry Hughes		01-Jan-2010 04:45
Oooooooops! You'll forgive me..... Make that 2010.....!! Roberta

Roberta Perry Hughes		01-Jan-2010 04:43
To all my dear Rogues and Roguettes.....and wonderful Don Boyd.... All the best, in 2910.....which is a mere 15 minutes away.... Hugs, Roberta

Parks		01-Jan-2010 04:36
Happy New Year! Az Al, That's the one. The Knaus Berry Farm is right across the street from Redland Elementary School. The old school buildings were badly damages in Hurricane Andrew but it looks like they are finally restoring the buildings and have expanded the school while keeping the same style of architecture.

Arizona Al		01-Jan-2010 03:03
Happy New Year to All. I attended Redland Elementary School circa 1952-1957. I recall that directly across the street from te school was a pick your own straberry farm. I wonder if this farm was one that has been recently mentioned in the blogs? Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Jeff		31-Dec-2009 23:50
Happy New Year to all of Don's "Irregular Regulars" as well as the visitors and guests to this rambling blogspot...

Charles Knight		31-Dec-2009 23:49
Happy New Years all! May you all be healthy, sane and wealthy in the coming years.

Nike		31-Dec-2009 19:29
Thank God for Greyhound and Google -- I found this on the internet: 15980 SW 248th Street (Coconut Palm Drive), Homestead, FL 33031, Phone: 305-247-0668, (open mid-November thru the last Saturday in April) - 8 am to 5:30 pm closed Sunday. They’re not Amish, as many people assume, but they do produce some of the finest fresh baked goods money can buy in South Florida. Knaus Berry Farm is operated by the Knaus family. They're Dunkers (a sect of German Baptists) with a reputation for outstanding produce and fresh flowers, fruit flavored milkshakes and homemade ice cream. Ray and Barbara Knaus started farming here more than 50 years ago (you can still pick your own strawberries and tomatoes out back) They also brought their tradition of baking authentic old-fashioned specialties made just like they were a century ago. They're famous for their herb bread sticks, black bottom cake, pineapple upside down cake, cheesecake and brownies, but the one item that causes those long lines to form out front -- from early morning until they close at sundown -- is their world famous sticky cinnamon buns. A little patience pays off as you work your way to the counter for a chance at these hot-out-of-the-oven delicacies. Don’t bother waiting until you get home — resign yourself to enjoying the fresh baked goods right out of the oven, even if it means spoiling your next scheduled meal. Other favorites include the guava and strawberry jellies, the freezer jam, local honey, key lime pie, cookies, hot peppers and fresh picked greens. Pies are another specialty, including apple, cherry, blueberry, strawberry rhubarb and raspberry. If you call ahead, they're make you a genuine shoo fly pie. "And now," said Paul Harvey, "you know the rest of the story."

whitebelt		31-Dec-2009 14:32
Roberta, I used to encounter a lot of them riding on the train. You see them all of the time in Chicago's Union Station. There is a group where the men wear a light green shirt that travels to Montana. Another group heads to Missouri I believe wearing purple shirts. I believe they are going to retreats or something like that. The green shirts are fastidiously dressed. Tailored and well pressed. The women, also. The purple shirts are less so. A more earthy people. I talked to some of the purple shirts on one trip. They do smoke. They told me that when they hit a certain age they are sent out into the world and are accepted back if they choose to return. Do you know which group is what?

Roberta Perry Hughes		31-Dec-2009 11:11
OK, y'all..... FYI: Mennonites are Anabaptist people of Germanic descent. They got their name from Catholic priest named Menno Simmons, who was from Holland. The info I read is that this religion is a Protestant denomination of Europe and America, which first arose in Switzerland, in the 16th century. The Old Order Amish is a group of Mennonites, who broke away from them, to form their own religion, named for Jacob Amman. They are chiefly a farming community, in and around Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. They speak a quaint language known as Pennsylvania Dutch, which is a dialect of German. There is a Mennonite community in Wrens, Ga, down the road from where we live; they have a restaurant, & two bakeries, plus, a flower shop & plant nursery, with a gift shop. A families live outside of Louisville, & have dairy cows, & there is another community, in Montezuma, that farms, and has a Bed and Breakfast Inn. There are many of them, whose last name is Yoder, Linnenkohl, or Griesebrecht. They do not marry outside of their faith, & a woman can either choose marriage, or a career, but not both. There are several Mennonite R.N.'s, at the local hospital, in Louisville. Their baked goods are to die for, & their restaurant has amazing food. They sew their own clothing, from the skin out....that includes under garments. They are very friendly, but quiet people, & there is no jewelry, nor makeup, on the women, unless it is a plain gold band for their wedding ring.

Jeff		31-Dec-2009 05:39
Parks, a character he was - to say the least...but a memorable one. Depending on the time and place of the service, I'll probably be there as well... but it's not determined as of yet - acording to his son's note at Al's blogspace. All I know is that his funeral and burial will be up in Massachusettes and a service will be held down here some time in January.

Parks		31-Dec-2009 05:31
Rat – That sounds like a real adventure! If you get a chance when you hit Miami, stop by my store, I’d love to get a chance to meet you. It’s Hopkins-Carter Marine on NW 21st Street. I’ll dig out a chart and you can show me where you are going. Strawberry milk shakes, the choices are Knaus Berry Farm, Burr’s Berry Farm or Robert is Here. I vote for Burr’s. Knaus is the place for baked goods, especially their cinnamon buns. The locals refer to Knaus Berry Farm as the Amish Bakery but I understand that the nice folks that run it are German Baptist, not Amish. Robert is Here is the place for fresh fruit, veggies and Guava Jelly. I’ll have to try the Key Lime shake. I’m headed down to Homestead tomorrow. Maybe I’ll get the chance to sample again and change my vote. Another place to visit is Schnebly Redland’s Winery just west of Robert is Here. Try their Lychee and Guava wines. I’m not kidding. The Guava wine smells wonderful! Jeff, I’ll probably go to Al’s memorial service. Maybe I’ll see you there. What a character he was.

Charles Knight		31-Dec-2009 01:46
Now wait a minute here...I am not into men! If I gave the wrong impression, ouch! Hope you all get a good chuckle out of it! Charles Knight, an aficionado of the female species for life!

Nike		30-Dec-2009 20:54
Don, The place to go is Knaus Berry Farm located at 15980 SW 248th Street in Homestead. I have heard some say they are German and others say Amish. I really don't know. I just know their strawberry shakes are outstanding. They are open Monday through Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. during the months of January - April which is strawberry season. You have to try the strawberry shakes!

whitebelt		30-Dec-2009 19:12
That has to be inserted within the script for the page, Don. You may not be able to do that. You have to be able to access the raw script or you may have someplace you can insert such things, like maybe in the header section where it says please post your comments and memories Here, or some other area where you can insert script. The best you may be able to do is inserthttp://gcpdot.com/ as a link somewhere. Goes to same place.people nervous. The dot has been red mostly for the last 3 hours or so. May be because of that scare in Times Square. That disrupted NASDAQ to a degree. Nothing like money to get nervous. That Robert's stuff is too sweet for me. I like things on the tart side . :-)

Don Boyd		30-Dec-2009 18:40
RIP Al Kaplan! I added the photo of Parks Masterson to the Rogues Gallery and he will elaborate on it in the comments section under the photo. Unfortunately for Charles Knight, it's a tame shot of Parks and not from his wilder young days. Nike: thanks for your comments and memories, especially about how special it was to grow up in Miami and all the things that were different here. It was a magical time in paradise for many of us and something we can never experience again. Miami River Rat: that sound like a great trip to me and I hope you have great weather while you're doing it. Roberta: wow, what a story and I'm glad it all turned out okay. Burn that dastardly rug for causing all the problems. Whitebelt: I tried to post the link at the bottom of the page of the site you provided but it wouldn't take and it showed up blank. I tried modifying the URL and it still wouldn't take. Leighton: I'm taking my ladies down south for one of those Key Lime shakes at Robert Is Here in the next couple of days - it's been mentioned several times in another comments gallery in the Hialeah section and curiosity about it is killing me. We'll also pick up some other goodies there and at the Amish-type baked goods place in the same area. Don

Jeff		30-Dec-2009 16:49
Parks - I just learned from my friends at the Greater North Miami Chamber of Commerce that Al Kaplan passed away yesterday. In case no one contacted you, I thought I'd better post it here.

Nike		30-Dec-2009 11:42
Growing up in Miami included friends and family who had never been anywhere that had many of the elements almost identical to the climate of the Caribbean tropics. They could see, do, and eat many things while visiting us they couldn't do anywhere else in the United States. I think all of you have talked about most of them on "Miami Memories," which is what is so special about this website. We had certain places we always took our visitors -- Miami Beach (remember, I lived in southwest Miami and Miami Beach was where the rich and famous were), Crandon Park, Viscaya (an outside drive by since we couldn't afford the admission), Cocoanut Grove, Coral Gables, Fairchild Gardens, Key West, Redland Fruit and Spice Park, Orchid Jungle (drive by), Monkey Jungle (drive by) and Everglades National Park. They were amazed at the sight of things growing in "their" winter months including things they had never seen -- bouganvilla, crotons, cocoanut palm trees, orchid trees, and a zillion others we took for granted. Even as I write this, I realize just how special it was living in Miami. During my visit ther last week, I looked for all those things. As I saw them, they were not only special but brought back great Miami Memories. Hmmm, just two more years until retirement...just maybe I should talk to Nancy about this. Don, thanks for making this possible by creating and maintaining this website. And, thanks to all of you "Miami Rogues" who share your Miami memories with me. I wish you all a healthy, happy and prosperous 2010. Charles "Nike" Carter Atlanta

Don Boyd		30-Dec-2009 07:15
Sorry for the delay, Parks. We had a widespread outage of our AT&T DSL service in northwest Dade three days ago and I just had service restored last night and now I've got a ton of e-mail to go through plus other things. I'll have the pic up in a day or two. Don

Miami River Rat		30-Dec-2009 05:29
Parks: What we're planning is a little un-orthodox. We're going to take two kayaks on a bigger boat. One guy going will be a "boatsitter" and won't kayak. So, we'll get dropped off at the mouth of the Shark River, kayak up and cut through the mangroves/sawgrass to Harney River and camp there. Then kayak down Harney to where the guy in the boat will have moved the boat to meet us. Repeat for Broad/Lostman's, Chatham/Huston, then up Turner River to the cut-across from Turner Lake to Halfway Creek, thence to the Rod & Gun Club at Everglade City for a well deserved steak. This will take several days. Unless, of course, we wimp out and head back before all this is completed. It's not thoroughly planned yet, but that's the big picture. Fishing down there, those small golden spoons seem to always bring in something to eat, unless you've got a more modern tip?

Parks		30-Dec-2009 01:12
Charles, I'm nude on a bear skin rug. It's not pretty! Charlis, Flamingo is no longer a town. It hasn't been since Everglades National Park was created. The only residences there are for park employees. Florida City, just south of Homestead, is now the southern most town in the continental U.S.A.

charlis		29-Dec-2009 22:56
Rat... let me know how Flamingo is. I had a coworker who did not believe that there was such a town in Florida, and it's being the furthest south continental town (not an island) in the US. I proved that I was correct but also read that the town was pretty much destroyed in 2005 from storm surge from one of the 'canes.

Charles Knight		29-Dec-2009 20:53
Parks, what kind of photo did you send Don? He hasn't posted it yet so we can only imagine...

Parks		29-Dec-2009 02:51
Rat - tell me more about the boat trip. What kind of boat? Where will you sleep? On the boat or camping? Are you going through Whitewater Bay or around Cape Sable? There will be fishing, right? You've picked a great time of the year. My sister gave me a jar of Robert is Here pickled asparagus for Christmas. I haven't tried it yet. Looks good, there is garlic and hot pepper in the jar. Burr's Berry Farm is open now. You should get a strawberry sundae or milk shake there as well.

Miami River Rat		29-Dec-2009 02:12
The Everglades and Flamingo: I'll be getting a shake and some jars of guava jelly at "Robert Is Here" January 8th or 9th. That's my first trip home this year. The purpose of that trip is to set up The Big One! A cousin and I are planning to put a boat in the water at Flamingo, head west through the mangroves and sawgrass and come out at Everglade City, some 100 miles to the northwest, several days later. That's to take place in early February. Maybe there's some truth to the "no fool like an old fool" saying, but I've been all over the 'glades and ten-thousand islands and never made that whole trip at one time. I'm sure a lot has changed since I last spent much time down there, so I'm expecting some fun and surprises along the way. I'll probably be on here asking for everybody to wish me luck before we embark on this venture...

charlis		28-Dec-2009 22:42
The Everglades stories are great. My first trip to the "glades was '63, my first summer in Miami and our first family tour of our new state. There were signs everywhere about the damages from Donna (my first hurricane experience while on the annual summer trip to NYC.) We stayed in a town called Flamingo, the last town south on the pennisula of Florida without being part of the Keys. I still have the pics of the trip. I'll send them to Don over the weekend, if I remember, along with the Santa suit pics.

whitebelt		28-Dec-2009 21:27
http://gcpdot.com/ The dot has been orange a lot in the last 24 hours. Almost steady in the last 2. I wonder if this is from returning Christmas gifts.

Leighton		28-Dec-2009 20:26
And I will have one of those Key Lime shakes, if it kills me to get it. I feel a drive to Miami coming on - it has been 21 years. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.

Leighton		28-Dec-2009 20:23
OK, humidity has been covered. What was the temperature in Miami on Christmas day? (Too lazy to Google it - I do that all day, Jeff.)

Nike		28-Dec-2009 01:21
Speaking of the everglades, when I was teaching a course at the Nike missile site last week, some of the students were talking about how good the Key Lime shake was at "Robert is Here" not too far outside the park on the way back to Florida City. I stopped and got one and, "W-O-W", it was like drinking a Key Lime pie. I remember Robert is Here while there in the early sixties while a soldier but don't remember the Key Lime shakes. They sure make the humidity more tolerable.

Parks		28-Dec-2009 00:09
I just sent Don a photo of me for the Rogues Gallery. It was taken today and there is a history related story to go with it. The photo is of me building an Everglades Pole Boat. The reason I'm building the boat is because my friend Chris Rollins told me last week that I'm teaching a class on how to build one January 16. I figured I'd better learn how. Here's the history part. The boat was designed by Glen Simmons who was a real swamp guy. He made his living hunting and fishing in the Everglades back before there was a national park and for quite a few years while it was a park. The boat is built to resemble a Seminole dugout canoe and can be pushed through the sawgrass easily. Glenn, with the help of Laura Ogden, wrote a book about his life before he passed away a few years ago. The plans for the boat are in the book. The name of the book is "Gladesmen" with the tag line "Gator Hunters, Moonshiners, and Skiffers". If you enjoyed Toch Brown’s book, you will enjoy Gladesmen. If you are in Miami on January 16, please stop by the Fruit and Spice Park in the Redlands and take the class.

Ray		27-Dec-2009 23:49
About the Miami weather, I always like the quote "If I owned Miami and Hell I would rent out Miami and live in Hell." If you're wondering where you've heard that line, it's from an unnamed WWII recruit who trained on Miami Beach. You likely saw it in a TV program called "Our Miami: The Magic City" which is often played on the Miami Dade cable channel, if you have cable and live in Miami. I just googled it and found it's available for purchase too. http://www.jlmiami.org/fundraisers-film.php While I really wish they would update it, it's a great history of Miami. No one really mentions it, but I think there was something more important than Flagler's Railroad to the history of Miami. Without it, we would still be an outpost for only the strongest. Air Conditioning. Ray

whitebelt		27-Dec-2009 23:03
Well, Charlis, I guess getting a golf cart or moving some place drier may be in order. :-) You might try west Texas. Civilization, lower ground than out here, and just a little more humidity to keep the skin soft. Lots of good looking women in Texas, so something there must be right. Can't say the same for New Mexico re the women.

charlis		27-Dec-2009 22:33
nike... loved the joke! Whitebelt... all I know is that my body feels better when the dew point is low... yesterday I felt like playing golf and walking all 18 holes... today I could barely move.

whitebelt		27-Dec-2009 21:49
Charlis, dewpoint is just the relative saturation of the air and the temp where water vapor condenses into water at a constant barometric pressure. Can't go by that because of varying altitudes, wind speeds, etc. A comfort index will take into account the normal skin temp of humans, 76 or 77 degrees, humidity which effects heat transfer, and wind chill effects. Essentially how the environment regulates the transfer of heat from the body. I have no idea how Sperling and the real estate industry determined theirs. There is a lower barometric pressure in the high altitudes out here, so you have a faster heat transfer for a relative humidity compared to lower altitudes because the boiling point of water is lower and it evaporates faster. You sweat out here, but you don't see it. But you can get these salt stains on your shirts emanating from your armpits. It's complicated. If you sweat all the time in the heat, and ache from the cold, then move out to the Southwest. MUCH more comfortable than humid areas.

Nike		27-Dec-2009 21:34
Oops! I mean, "temperature and humidity."

Nike		27-Dec-2009 21:30
Speaking of temperature and humifdity, A Floridian dies and goes to hell. While down there the devil notices that the Floridian is not suffering like the rest. He checks the gauges and sees that it's 100 degrees and about 80% humidity. So he goes over to the Floridian and asks why he's so happy. The Floridian says, "I really like it here. The temperature is just like Jacksonville in June." The devil isn't happy with the Floridian's answer and decides to fix him, so he goes over and turns up the thermostat to 120 degrees and the humidity to 90%. After turning everything up he goes looking for the Floridian. He finds him standing around unbuttoning his shirt, just as happy as can be. The devil quizzes the Floridian again as to why he's so happy. The Floridian says, "This is even better. It's like Orlando in July." The devil, now really upset, decides to make the Floridian really understand that hell is no paradise. He walks over to the controls and turns the heat up to 140 degrees and the humidity to 100%. "Now let's see what the Floridian is up to," he thinks. So he goes looking for the Floridian. The devil finds the Floridian taking his shirt off basking in the heat, even happier than before. The devil can't figure it out. He asks the Floridian why he's happy now. The Floridian replies, "This is great, it's just like Miami in August." The devil says, "That's it, I'll get this guy." He walks over and turns the temperature down to a freezing 25 degrees below zero. "Now let's see what the Floridian has to say about this," the devil thinks to himself. He looks around and finds the Floridian jumping up and down for joy. "What are you so happy about now," asks the devil. Still excited, the Floridian replies, "YIPEE! The Marlins have finally won the World Series!"

whitebelt		27-Dec-2009 21:27
Charlis, dewpoint is just the relative saturation of the air and the temp where water vapor condenses into water at a constant barometric pressure. Can't go by that because of varying altitudes, wind speeds, etc. A comfort index will take into account the normal skin temp of humans, 76 or 77 degrees, humidity which effects heat transfer, and wind chill effects. Essentially how the environment regulates the transfer of heat from the body. I have no idea how Sperling and the real estate industry determined theirs. There is a lower barometric pressure in the high altitudes out here, so you have a faster heat transfer for a relative humidity compared to lower altitudes because the boiling point of water is lower and it evaporates faster. You sweat out here, but you don't see it. But you can get these salt stains on your shirts emanating from your armpits. It's complicated. If you sweat all the time in the heat, and ache from the cold, then move out to the Southwest. MUCH more comfortable than humid areas.

charlis		27-Dec-2009 20:44
gang... maybe if you use the "dewpoint" as a factor... it is factored in some formula matching the humidity and the temp... the lower the dew point, the more comfortable the weather... ie: today the temps were cool in tampa, the humidity was high because of rain in the area... I ache all over. Tomorrow it will be cold, but low humidity... thus a low dew point... I should have a lot of energy, I hope.

whitebelt		27-Dec-2009 20:24
http://noosphere.princeton.edu/index.html The home page of that experiment.

whitebelt		27-Dec-2009 20:13
If anyone hasn't noticed, I exist on a different plane of consciousness. Just a few levels below Howling Mad Murdock. This is an interesting experiment that has been going on regarding random number changes and world events. http://gcpdot.com/ More about it here. http://www.viewzone.com/future/index.html I put a link to the button on my geezer's page athttp://geezers.awehican.org/index.php It's at the top. Don, you can copy a link from the bottom of that first link and maybe insert it into this page. Never hurts to know if something significant on a global scale is about to occur. :-)

whitebelt		26-Dec-2009 23:25
Al, Phoenix just reminds me of "Mad Max" and "A Boy and His Dog". Ashes to ashes, and dust to dust.

Arizona Al		26-Dec-2009 22:48
My turn: In the Valley of the Sun (Phoenix and surrounding areas) the humidity during the majority of the summer is in the 20s or lower. The air temperature averages well over 100 degrees with several days in the 110s-115s F and an occasional 120F. In the winter it is mainly in the 60s during the day with an occasional low in the 40s. Toward the end of July and into August we experience the "monsoon season" when the relative humidity will reach into the low 50s. The residents consider 50F as cold and 110 as hot. I love it here..I was riding my cycle today at 2pm and it was 55F.Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive well and very comfortable weatherwise in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		26-Dec-2009 21:57
Don, it is an artificial index based on temp and humidity. Not direct humidity readings. "On average, there are 248 sunny days per year in Miami, FL. The July high is around 88 degrees. The January low is 61. Our comfort index, which is based on humidity during the hot months, is a 30 out of 100, where higher is more comfortable. The US average on the comfort index is 44." http://www.bestplaces.net/city/Miami-Florida.aspx# It may be based on the lower number is closer to Hell. New Orleans is hell in July and August. Altitude probably fits in there somewhere, too. Here in Espanola the air is cool. The humidity is down around 20%. The sun is hot, but the high seldom goes over 95. Step in the shade and you cool off nicely. Air conditioning is not used much here. About 300 sunny days a year. Stand in the sun in the winter and it warms you tremendously. The joys of pure solar radiation.

Don Boyd		26-Dec-2009 20:51
Whitebelt, say again? You say "the lower the number the more humidity for the temperature. A higher number means it is more comfortable." Maybe that's the case for you but the higher the number down here the more miserable it is and the more I perspire. The lower the number, as in our wonderful winter months, the more I love it outdoors. Don

whitebelt		26-Dec-2009 19:55
Charlis, once upon a time I got on an airplane in Cleveland in early June. Was the first day over 50 in a while. Me and every one else were bundled up. We flew to Louisville and when they opened the door everyone just wilted from the 90+ temp and 499% humidity. Amazing, the difference in a few miles.

charlis		26-Dec-2009 17:06
whitebelt, as a human walking barometer I can attest to your statement. A good example would be from an incident several years ago. I was going to NYC for my first ever winter trip... MLK weekend. (I had spent many a summer there when I was younger.) When I got on the plane I was in a lot of pain... cool temps with rain in Tampa. Got to NCY and woke up to teens. I walked all over the city... and in no pain. On another trip to Las Vegas, the temps in FL were in the 90's and we complained of the heat. Got to LV with temps in the lower 100's and didn't even break a sweat! As they say, "It aint the heat, it's the humidity."

whitebelt		26-Dec-2009 14:22
Nike, the lower the number the more humidity for the temperature. A higher number means it is more comfortable. The national average is 44.

charlis		26-Dec-2009 14:03
Snow in FL! Yes, it was 1-19-77. You had some flurries... We opened the drapes, in Tampa, to find the grass covered with snow... enough to have a few good snow ball fights and make small snowmen. Tampa weather is strange. One year, on xmas, we had a record low, for the day, of 20 and it never got out of the 30's. The next year it was 84!

Jeff		26-Dec-2009 02:52
Charlis... good luck on your blood tests... Roberta and Lewis... my best wishes to you both for health and happiness... to all else, Merry Christmas to all... and to all a good night! {:c) Jeff, spending the day working on yet another font for future release and getting bleary-eyed...

Nike		26-Dec-2009 02:00
Charles, Right you are. It was January 19, 1977 (my wife's birthday) when it snowed in Miami. Your description of the Everglades brings back fond memories for me while a soldier there. We lived in tents from October 1962 - June 1965 just outside the entarcne to the park until they built the new site inside the park. Actually, I was at the Carol City site (also in tents) part of that time. Since I grew up in Miami and my parents still lived there off the Trail and SW 34th Ave, once the actual missile crisis was over, I would go home ans sleep in my old bedroom on my off-duty time. I always brough a soldier or two home with me for the holidays. My mother still kids me about it. Even though it was muggy and buggy part of the year, it was refreshing and comfortable much of the year. I always look forward to returning. I especially enjoy the drive through Big Cypress from Miami to the west coast seeing all the broomalaids in the cypress trees. Happy holidays to you.

Charles Knight		26-Dec-2009 01:43
Nike, I envy you. I spent over one half of my youth in the Glades and it's been nearly a year since I visited. As a kid I took it all for granted, but today it"s survival means much to me. The beauty of an air plant, variety's of Orchids, Cypress in a slough. Gators, snakes, raccoons and otters, the sound of millions of frogs and crickets working in harmony after the sun fell from the sky! I'd sit on the porch and try to think up new ways to describe the sound, the one I remember best is...The night sounds of the Glades might be imagined as that of a million natives beating drums of varying timbre' , a din as such was never heard by a dweller of the largest, noisiest, cities. Was it '77 when we were trying to catch the snow flurries? Crayfish pond had frozen (partially), brrrrr!

Nike		26-Dec-2009 01:33
Whitebelt, I was surprised to read the humidity is higher in Atlanta than Miami. It sure seems higher when I am in Miami. Parks, Everyone is still waiting for your photo in the Miami Rogues Gallery. Make it our Christmas present. Anyway, not only went to the missile site there but taught a course I developed for the Everglades National Park staff who will interpret the site to visitors. The tours of the Nike site will beging in January and continue through March. If anyone is interested in a tour for just the cost of an automobile admission to the park, call 305-242-7700 and request a tour of the Nike missile site. Tell them Sgt. Carter recommeded the tour to you. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

whitebelt		25-Dec-2009 22:09
Sperling's best places has a comfort index based on heat and humidity. On a scale to 100, higher being better, Miami rates a 30. New Orleans is a 22. San Antonio is a 23. Atlanta is a 34. Phoenix is a 45. Denver is a 57. Albuquerque is a 65. Where I live in Espanola, NM is a 71. New Mexico has the best weather in the country overall. Mild high and low. Merry Christmas, everyone.

Parks		25-Dec-2009 20:41
Nike, did you get out to the base? Are they planning to open it to the public? Tell us about your visit.

Nike		25-Dec-2009 19:31
I was at Everglades National Park last week and can't believe I had forgotten how humid it is. It is always great to be there, regardless of the temperature or humidity. Happy holidays to all the Miami Rogues. Charles "Nike" Carter Atlanta

Leighton		25-Dec-2009 18:15
Interesting, WB, although luminarias are now also the bags with candles, officially in South Texas, anyway. They are sold with that name, and the city's annual, huge arts fest downtown is Luminaria. Guess it has become regional, as per your link. My mother was up all night cooking, so I'm sure it's great. All family will overlap for about 90 minutes today. I am apparently very strange in liking a very quiet, low-key, simple Christmas day.

charlis		25-Dec-2009 17:43
Merry Christmas to all. Too warm in Tampa to make the Bott Boi. Will make it tomorrow when the highs will only be in the low 60's. In 1983 we had a record low of 20 degrees. Never got out of the 30's. The next morning we loaded up the motorhome and headed north in search of snow. It was 19 degrees! The next year we hit a record high on xmas day of 84 degrees! Jeff.. great news! My blood workup showed some problems. Will be spending the first few weeks of the new year having them checked out. Roberta... sorry about Lewis. At least nothing was broken. Take care. My love is with you both. Everyone else... have a good holiday with friends and family.

Parks		25-Dec-2009 15:32
Roberta, you and Lewis are in my prayers today.

Charles Knight		25-Dec-2009 14:59
Roberta and Lewis, my Christmas gift to the both of you is a simple one of prayer. May you both be blessed with healing and happiness, God bless you both and the same to all of my fellow Miami friends.

Roberta Perry Hughes		25-Dec-2009 07:08
Merry Christmas, everyone....!! Hope y'all get lotsa neat-o stuff, & the bestest dinner, ever....!! And all surrounded by your loved ones, from far & near, & your family & friends. As for me & Lewis, well....!! Sometime after midnight, I got him up to go to the bathroom. Will be more careful, in future, to always "follow through," & go in there with him. Well, sir, his right foot slid on the throw rug at the base of the commode, & jammed up against the end wall of the bath tub, while his left arm whammed into the linen closet's metal door handles, giving him a humdinger of a skin tear, & it was a 3-ring circus, with me supporting his weight & my own, to get him to raise his left foot, off of the rug, so I could move said rug with my foot, & told him to put that foot flat on the floor, & put his weight on it, lessening his weight on me. Then, we did the same, with his right foot, but I still had to support his weight, as he was having trouble, standing up. He was like a rag doll....! Anyhow, got him over, to sit on the side of the tub, so I could assess him, & found him to be ok, as far as bones go....thank you!! So, his "present" to me, this Christmas morning, was a bit of "excitement," I guess you might say, & quite an adrenaline rush....!! Mercy....!! Felt as if I could lift The front end of an RV off of ground...! My "present" to him, was a shower, dressing his skin tear, & assisting him back to bed & tucked in, once again safe and sound, per usual, with the best bedside nursing care I can muster, given the shape I'm in, physically. Whew!! Never a dull moment, around here, & we both are truly thankful, that no serious injuries resulted from this latest mishap. As for that unfortunate rug.....after having called it everything but a Sunday School teacher, I opened the front door, soon as I got Lewis settled in, & tossed it outside, toot sweet.....!! LOL "Peace out," as our friend LARGO would say....!!

Miami River Rat		25-Dec-2009 01:34
Season's greetings to all. Here's wishing a healthy and happy 2010 to you.

Jeff		25-Dec-2009 01:11
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to All! I've received my BEST present one could wish for... another medical test with good results and NO problems!

whitebelt		24-Dec-2009 23:45
Get some of those waxed lunch bags, put some sand and a votive candle in them and light the candles.

whitebelt		24-Dec-2009 23:41
http://www.santafedecor.com/Newsletters/Archive/SW-Luminiarias-Farolitos.htm Farolitos are candles in a paper bag. Interesting when the wind really blows. They are pretty. They do bonfires along the Mississippi River banks around New Orleans.

Parks		24-Dec-2009 23:37
I've always heard them called Luminarias also but Faro means light house in Spanish so Farolito would be little lighthouse.

Fran		24-Dec-2009 23:37
Leighton, I know what you meant about South Florida. I'm miles and miles away, my heart belongs there. Florida my home!

Leighton		24-Dec-2009 22:59
In San Antonio, we call them luminarias, not farolitos. Interesting.

Parks		24-Dec-2009 22:54
Merry Christmas you all!

whitebelt		24-Dec-2009 22:47
It is cold outside here in Santa Fe. It will get colder later tonight. Single digits and brisk wind. I think I will skip the Farolito Walk this year. Might poke my head out and watch them light the farolitos in the Plaza, then duck back in. Some idiot was swimming in the outdoor pool here today. Some people are crazy. Merry Christmas!!

Leighton		24-Dec-2009 22:01
Thanks, CK - I'm jealous. Almost 60 here in East TN, though. so not too bad - had 8 inches of snow earlier in the week - crazy!!! Charlis, the photographers we deal with said the same, as I imagined that they would. My San Antonio friends rushed me tamales for this evening - a Tex-Mex tradition - getting used to not being down there. (Might turn around and go back, though - I'll decide in January.) I MUST get back down to South Florida - my heart will always be there, no matter how bad people say it can be sometimes. I'll be thinking of Crandon tomorrow. I'll never forget the Flight 401 incident on Dec 29, '72.

charlis		24-Dec-2009 19:47
Found the pic of the 50's Santa and took pic of the suit as it is today... unfortunately I left my camera cable at work so you will have to wait until Monday for me to post both pics. Everyone, have a happy holiday.

charlis		24-Dec-2009 17:32
Everyone... have a great holiday! I am still looking for a pic of Santa Claus from the 50's and will post the pic of the suit as it is today...

charlis		24-Dec-2009 17:28
leighton... I agree with you.. and it is annoying for the paid photog to take pics when the pics have all the other flashes going off. When I was doing photog for a living, I asked the people who hired me to ask people NOT to take pics of their own.

Charles Knight		24-Dec-2009 16:20
Leighton, we wet to the beach yesterday...Walked a grueling two blocks from home to get there, phew! There was sand and Palm trees everywhere! Just plain disgusting.Ha Ha! I love Florida and all that it stands for.

Leighton		24-Dec-2009 15:25
And somebody in South Florida, go to the beach for me tomorrow. That was our family tradition back in the day...

Ted Crownover		24-Dec-2009 15:22
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thanks for all the Miami Memories.

Leighton		24-Dec-2009 15:20
And since when did a wedding "toast" become a "roast"????? Awful.

Leighton		24-Dec-2009 15:18
There are a TON of bad habits, posing as "new rules" these days. I blame the wedding reality shows. Anyway, I work wedding events with my sister, at "high end" venues, and what I see never ceases to amaze me. These weddings definitely have a photographer present, so seeing the ceremony disrupted with personal cameras is just plain unnecessary. Not to mention rude. Old school, here. Just don't get it.

Charles Knight		24-Dec-2009 15:08
Leighton, for the past two decades I've owned and operated a Disc Jockey service specializing in weddings, it's true that there are many people with personal cameras all over the place. More often than not the wedding party themselves place disposable cameras in the hands of family and guests in order to get as many "candid" shots possible during the ceremony and reception. I worked one wedding last year where the bride and groom paid four thousand dollars to a photographer that skipped town, had it not been for the disposable cameras and others with personal cameras there would be no photos at all.

whitebelt		24-Dec-2009 14:45
Fran, sixty is OK. Doesn't take so long to say. But having to scroll down so far when entering your birthday in those info boxes is a pain.

Leighton		24-Dec-2009 12:35
Speaking of cameras, I attended a wedding last month, and was horrified at the number of idiots jumping around with their personal cameras - including the MOTHER of the bride. A professional photographer had been hired, but it didn't stop everyone and their cross-eyed cousin from snapping shots. Distracting and rude. My jaw dropped several times. Total circus. The lack of decorum really shocked me.

Fran		24-Dec-2009 06:08
Yes, Whitebelt,2010 will be a dozy. I'll celebrate my 60th on the 10th of January, good times : Have a safe holiday!

charlis		23-Dec-2009 23:36
white... enjoy the white xmas... I do not want one here in Tampa... one snow fall in the area in the 35 years I have lived here is enough! I am too old to learn how to drie in snow! (Having live in FL since I was 13.)

Arizona Al		23-Dec-2009 23:32
Seasons Greetings and Happy Holidays to the Usual Suspects. Snow (lotta lotta) in the Arizona Mountains but here in the valley it is sunny with temps in the low 60s for rest of the week. If I want to see a White Christmas it is a 2 hour drive to Flagstaff where they have over 2 feet of snow. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Charles Knight		23-Dec-2009 19:02
Mama don't take my Kodachrome awaaaay... Yes, I'm still here reading the posts. Merry Christmas to all!

whitebelt		23-Dec-2009 18:09
Have a Merry Christmas you all. Will be a white one here. Fixing to drive down to Santa Fe in the snow to celebrate it there. A nice suite at the La Fonda with a fireplace and farolitos on the building around there. Those are paper bags with candles in them, or electrical fascimiles. Very pretty. Santa Fe is a really pretty and peaceful place at Christmas. Had 4 inches overnight with at least a couple more coming. Luckily no mountain ranges to cross between here and there. I hate driving in the mountains in the ice and snow. Peace, love, and all that. Enjoy the tranquility of the season. Next year will be a doozy.

charlis		23-Dec-2009 00:25
Ray... back to Kodachrome... had to look for some old pics for a family project... the santa suit... the "family photo suitcase" has pics going back to the 1920's! Some of my first digital photos are bad due to new programs not accepted older versions.

charlis		23-Dec-2009 00:21
Ray... Kodachrome... give me the good old cameras any day. The old cameras could catch things as they happened, if you knew how to use them... With digital cameras you have to wait for them to start up and often miss good photo ops. I have a fairly good Kodak digital and still miss many a good photo op. With my old Pentex all I had to do was remove the lense cap!

charlis		23-Dec-2009 00:16
Roberta... enjoy the Bott Boi! It will be too warm in Tampa to really enjoy the xmas spirit of it... until the day after. Love to you and yours.

charlis		23-Dec-2009 00:15
Fran... forgot to add, re: santa suit.... a coworker, and good friend, had offered to wear the suit for the pic... he was a good choice since his name is the same as my dad's... and, except for lack of hair, looks like my dad would have at the same age (dad died in his early 50's), he saw the mask and ran away!

charlis		23-Dec-2009 00:10
Fran... the suit showed up yesterday... it is pink, yellow and orange! Now I know why my sister ran screaming from the room... the "mask" is scary! I will work on restoring the mask... all dried out, with a yellow beard. I'll post a pic this weekend... no one can wear the suit.

Jeff		22-Dec-2009 23:00
Happy Holidays to all... and may we all enjoy health, happiness and the love of those we cherish so much... Be safe, be content, be happy!

Fran		22-Dec-2009 22:00
Wishing all a very Merry Christmas from the bottom of my heart. :) May the peace and joy of this season be with you . Charlis, did the pink santa show up?

Ray		22-Dec-2009 16:46
I wanted to just mention the passing of something that's a big part of what we like here at this site. Kodachrome will pass away at the end of this year after a 74 year run. Just think about how many great pictures on this site were saved in time thanks to that film. And of course who could forget the famous song by Paul Simon. http://www.kodak.com/eknec/PageQuerier.jhtml?pq-path=15359&pq-locale=en_US I really doubt if any digital format will last anywhere near that long. Ray

Guest		22-Dec-2009 14:06
Roberta -- you are a beautiful lady, inside and out.

Roberta Perry Hughes		22-Dec-2009 12:48
Hello, everyone..... Thanks for asking about me, Don. LARGO....!! SO GLAD TO READ YOUR MESSAGE TO ME....!! SAY "HELLO," TO ST. AUGUSTINE FOR ME....!! Charlis....thanks for all the emails. I appreciate them, more than you know. I hope to make me some Bott Boi (spell?) come New Year's Eve, if all goes well. How is Evie...? Al....Jeff....take care of yourselves; I wish you well. Everyone else.....Howdy.....!! Been busy, tending to Lewis at night, & trying to catch up on my sleep during the day, when he seems to function a helluva lot better. It's the nights, that are such a trial....for us both. Lewis' eldest son sent us a fully-cooked Honey Baked Ham, yesterday, via UPS. I will serve it to our 3 friends, who are coming over to dismantle the corral panels that comprise the round pen, & reassemble them in a better, drier horselot, for our 3 horses, & get them moved into it. Lewis had said he would do it, by himself, & I knew he is not able for such, & when our friends visited us, last week, & saw how he has gone downhill, they all volunteered to return, & do this much-needed task for us, & get the horses moved. You cannot ask for a better Christmas gift, than to have willing helping hands, from friends....& neighbors....who care. My sister was going to be with us, during Christmas week, but cancelled on me, with the news that her #2 son, who lives in Eustis, FL, is coming to be with her for the holidays, bringing her grandson with him. She does not get to see them, on a regular basis, & though I understand, completely, it saddens me, to once again, have no one to darken our door, for Christmas. (P.L.O.M.---poor little old me). LOL I have been so constantly busy, I do not have the first holiday decoration put up. It doesn't even seem like Christmas is merely a few days away.... Shoot fire. It could be a helluva lot worse, ya know...? We have a roof over our heads, a source of heat, food in the pantry, hot & cold running water, indoor plumbing, a running vehicle, etc., etc., & each other.....which is more than a lot of families or individuals have, right now. My heart goes out to those who have lost their jobs, or are homeless, or are facing a broken home, right here when other families are bonding, & making merry. We take so much for granted, don't we...? The most important gifts we have, or will receive, are intangible, & cannot be wrapped & tagged. Our five senses, for one. Love in our lives, for another. The list is a long one, if we but take the time to ennumerate our gifts. I sincerely hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Hanukkah celebration! We always watch it on PBS, every year. I do LOVE the music, the Hebrew language, the prayers, the people. My favorite song is, "Don't Let the Light Go Out." Wish I had my Jewish friends nearby....to eat the food.....!!! LOL Here's wishing everyone the best Christmas, ever....!! One year, when my mother & my aunts were saying they could not afford to get anyone any gifts, I instigated for all of us to wrap up anything that would make a package: a box of Kleenex; a box of cereal; a cake mix; just anything wrappable, was allowed, & we set a limit, of no more than $15, or less, TOTAL, per person. We had the most fun, that year, & there were lots & lots of wrapped presents, beneath our tree, for everyone....!! The most fun was when everyone opened what my late Aunt Gloria got everyone. It was a heavy-ish box, & in it was....a jar of Massengill douche powder.....!! It brought the house down....!! We laughed so hard we had tears in our eyes....!! I bought all of the food, & my late Aunt Dorris did the cooking. Everyone agreed that it was a fantastic idea that I had, & that it was the merriest Christmas we had had in a long time. It really stands out in my memory, of a "favorite Christmas past." Be well, my dear friends. Stay warm. Cherish your family & friends, always. Roberta, having the wisdom to know that a Hard Candy Christmas is a lot better than finding switches & a lump of coal, in one's stocking.

Arizona Al		22-Dec-2009 09:11
I must be lucky since at age 63 I have no major or minor physical or mental ailments that I am aware of or that my annual medical examination has not uncovered. I attribute this to drinking, drugging and womanizing in my earlier years of youth and early adulthood:):) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		22-Dec-2009 00:09
Welcome Guest and Jeanne. Thank you for posting your comments and memories. Robertah: how are you doing? Jeff and Charlis: hang in there. Don Walking again but not far

charlis		21-Dec-2009 23:01
Jeff... I guess my body has a lot of "tolerance" left in it. I smoke and drink too much and I am far from skinny! Take care, and keep me posted.

Jeff		21-Dec-2009 02:49
Charlis, Parks... thanks for the good wishes... So far, so good... but you KNOW you're getting older when the talk turns to health and medical... and who's got what. Parks... Al must have some sort of martyr complex... he doesn't think the cigarettes are bad for him, and this proves otherwise. Also, as very skinny as he is, his body probably doesn't have some of the same tolerances as others might...

Guest		21-Dec-2009 01:33
Live and Let Live drugstore was by Jackson, Jeanne. Loved that place. And the Jackson Byrons and the 5 & 10 near it. I especially loved the newsstand on the corner of 17th ave and 36 St. Spent a lot of money in there for magazines and books while I went to Jackson, which was several years after you graduated. I bought Fanny Hill there in my junior year. 54th street was a neat commercial area. There was a Dairy Queen on 17th ave we stopped at after church sometimes. Some neat stores on it all the way to Hialeah.

jeanne ledbetter-knapp		20-Dec-2009 23:08
This comment comes from a native Miamian,Miami Edison grad 1956,Brother Tommy also Edisonite 1959,I have so many greatttt memories of Edison Center,Orchard Villa Ele.,Jack's Foot Long Hot Dogs on 54st,the best hot dogs in the South,the Center theatre,where i danced in beautiful flowing dresses and was swept away on a pirate ship by a gorgeous pirate--------In my Dreams, Dexter's skating rink where my boyfriend was slammed into the bathroom door while doing the whip,,,He was at the very end and yes he broke the door down!!Fifi and Pauls by Edison,a great hot dog and fries,My uncle was a Dr. in Allapattah Tippens,was his name,Live and Live drugstore with the creaky wooden floors, The 5-7-9 shop where Mama bought my school clothes,there's so much more but it might be boring to some. Just wanted to share some of my wonderful memories with you all. Jeanne Ledbetter-Knapp

charlis		20-Dec-2009 21:37
jeff... hope everything is okay. I start the doctor regime after the first of the year... blood workup showed some interesting things but I had to put the follow ups on hold for a few weeks as my job is being changed around. Take care.

Parks		20-Dec-2009 16:45
Jeff, He probably won't quit. I've never seen anyone as addicted to tobacco as he is. I wish he would stop. I'd love to go fishing with him but I can't stand being down wind of him. Good luck with your medical issues.

Jeff		20-Dec-2009 05:11
Parks - No, I didn't - and I'm sorry to hear that. I've been very involved with a number of doctor's visits and medical tests myself - as well as my work... and I hadn't spoken with Al in quite a while, much less posted on here. Perhaps now he'll finally quit smoking...

Parks		20-Dec-2009 03:14
Jeff, Did you know our friend Al Kaplan had a heart attack? His son put the news up on his web site. He said it was "mild".

Don Boyd		18-Dec-2009 20:06
New photos added. Charles Knight contributed a 1950's image of a WTVJ Channel 4 advertisement promoting the "Tumbleweed" package of westerns shown from 5:30pm to 6:15pm Monday through Fridays (50's gallery). http://www.pbase.com/image/120396285 Alvin Lederer contributed a 1935 brochure promoting the Everglades Jungle Tour boat trips (Attractions gallery) and a 1920's postcard image of NE 14th Street and Biscayne Boulevard (20's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120395529 Don

Fran		18-Dec-2009 00:01
Charlis, Sounds like a plan. :)

charlis		17-Dec-2009 23:45
Tak about a small world... I was in the elevator at work today... struck up a conversation with the other rider... seems he went to Miami Edison in the late 60's. Did not catch his name. Will let you know when I see him again.

charlis		17-Dec-2009 23:40
fran... got email from cuz... she is sending me the suit in a few days... hubby was sick... I will put the suit on and get a friend to take a pic. Will post it.

Don Boyd		17-Dec-2009 17:21
New photos added from Duane Zimmerman: a scan of his 1970's Jefferson employee name tag and his Service Merchandise employee name tag (Do You Remember gallery). A 1969 ad for Santana Marine Service at Dinner Key (Local Ads gallery). A 1978 image of the Omni Hotel (Hotel gallery). Front and back of a late 1970's Crandon Park souvenir train ticket (Attractions gallery). A 1956 image of Miami City Hall (1950's gallery). A scan of 1960's matches from the Flame Restaurant (restaurants gallery). A 1969 ad for Shade sun tan lotion (National ads gallery). New photos added from Alvin Lederer: a 1910 image of the gardens on the south side of the Royal Palm Hotel (Hotels gallery and downtown gallery). A 1910's image of excursion boats at Elser's Pier (Attractions gallery and downtown gallery). A 1915 post card depicting black men working on coconuts in a "Cocoanut Grove, Florida" (1893 to 1919 gallery). New photos added from Larry Zink: another 1942 image of the Grove Inn bar (Restaurants gallery), photos of his brother Kenny in front of the Grove Inn bar in 1942 (Individuals gallery), a 1947 photo of Larry's 1st grade class at Miami Shores Elementary (Schools gallery), a 1948 photo of Larry's 2nd grade class at Miami Shores Elementary (Schools gallery), a 1930's photo of his father Kenneth's Standard Wholesale Grocery Company truck somewhere on the Tamiami Trail (1930's gallery), and a 1930's photo of his father Kenneth with the Standard Wholesale Grocery Company truck (Individuals gallery), Don

LARGO		16-Dec-2009 03:54
HEY THERE ROBERTA...LEAVE IT TO YOU TO NOTICE IF ONE OF US STRAYS FOR TO LONG. I JUST POPPED ON TO CHECK THE SITE OUT AND WENT BACK TO AROUND DEC. 1st ...SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE IN A ROUGH PATCH. I PRAY YOU AND LEWIS WILL RALLY AND THE HOLIDAYS WILL BE CHEERY FOR YOU. MY YOUNGER SISTER HAD A STROKE AND BETWEEN THAT, WORK AND MY FAMILY HERE IN ST. AUGUSTINE I HAVE NOT LOGGED ON AS MUCH. I DO WISH FOR EVERYONE TO HAVE A JOYFUL HOLIDAY FOR WHATEVER YOU ARE CELEBRATING....TO GOOD HEALTH AND FOND MEMORIES...LARGO

Fran		15-Dec-2009 03:24
Gee that's a thought, flamingos in a picture. Water colors are my favorite, second would be pen and ink. Can't wait for the picture, just think, Santa in pink.

charlis		15-Dec-2009 00:30
Fran... my art teacher at Beach Hi would give you an automatic "F" if you put a flamingo in a pic! Pat of his "start of school year speech." Of course he never did. I got even with him a few years later... He just happened to be my art teacher when I got to Miami Dade... I spread the word about flamingos... No, I did not get an "F" for the course... see previous posts. When I get the suit, I will post the pics of from way back when and the suit as it is now...

Leighton		14-Dec-2009 06:28
We always went to Crandon Beach on Christmas - just because. We also never missed that light display in Coral Gables - the car dealership person, who (whom) has been discussed in many past posts. Velvet Cream was also an integral part of the holidays. 40 years ago? WOW!!

Miami River Rat		14-Dec-2009 06:04
Neat stories. I remember, as a small child riding the bus with my grandma downtown to Burdine's to see Santa. In those days Burdine's was about the only place in town that had air conditioning. My grandma, being a fully acclimated Miami pioneer, hated the air conditioning. It could be 90 degrees outside, but if we were headed to Burdine's Grandma would bring sweaters for us so we wouldn't "catch our death of cold in that freezing store". Now I've grown soft and don't know if I could live in South Florida without an air conditioned house.

Fran		13-Dec-2009 21:49
Do take pictures and post them. I would love to share the joy of that suit. My baby sister and I have this thing about flamingos. When we are out we buy anything flamingo for each other. She has a nice set of flamingo place mats. There is a catch, she hates flamingos. I guess you could say that those pink birds have a place in my heart.:)

charlis		13-Dec-2009 20:02
Fran...I can not wait for my cousin to send me the suit. I will forward it to my little sister as a xmas present

charlis		13-Dec-2009 19:59
Fran... I am waiting, anxiously, for a coworker to give me her annual homemade fruitcake... she is from Jamaica... fruit cake is made with 180 proof rum from Jamaica. I do not share it with anyone! If guests stop by, they get the store bought fruit cake. She makes up a batch for work... only certain people get the good stuff.

Fran		13-Dec-2009 19:37
Lovely story, heart warming, brings the memories of fruitcake to mind. Dad and mom loved fruit cake and bought several homemade cakes. So, this year I thought that I would make a fruit cake. Well, needless to day that I will not be making another. That cake was sooooo sweet that no one could eat it. They made all kinds of excuses leaving most of it on their the plates. I must confess, it was horrible. My first and last attempt.

charlis		13-Dec-2009 19:17
Miami Beach xmas's.... my first was in '62.... Red and Green xmas lights were rare... all the lighting was blue and white... Chanuka colors. Not knowing about the Jewish holiday, I was a bit confused.

charlis		13-Dec-2009 19:09
Fran... I have a great xmas memory to share. You will all get a kick out of the ending... xmas eve always rotated among the homes of my grand parents and aunts/uncles. We had moved into our new house in '56 so it was our turn to host the party. I was 7. According to my cousin, my sister always ran from the room when Santa appeared. Well, that year, I had figured out that my dad was Santa... he had always been missing the years before... on a so-called beer run. My one cousin, 6 years older than me, Kay, apparently told someone that I had learned the "secret". So, that year my dad and older cousins left the house to do the beer run. Santa arrived. As did my dad and the cousins. I found out the truth when I was in my teens and one of the boy cousins (the oldest) and his best friend came to Miami Beach to visit us after we had moved there. The friend told me that he was Santa that year. This gets better... my sister was afraid of Santa and ran to the bedroom the one time the event was held at my cousin's house. Seems that Daddy had gone to the room and pulled down his beard to show her that he was acting as Santa. I just found this out as my uncle, Kay's father, passed away this summer. This gets better. When Kay was cleaning out her father's house, she found the suit in the attic. She is sending it to me... it is now pink.

Fran		13-Dec-2009 16:04
I can remember when I was four and my dad set up. I mean Santa set up a swing set in our living room. We woke up to see a great swing set in our living room. My dad had to take it apart so that we could swing. Just happens it took him the rest of the day. He was dead tired. However, we were thrilled with our Christmas. When my sister and I were older we got up early Christmas morning and opened all of our gifts. Thank goodness for foil paper. Nope we didn't get caught. :)

Miami River Rat		13-Dec-2009 14:09
What did I do, crash the board? C'mon, wake up out there in Old Miami land! Whazzup for Christmas? Got any holiday memories from ancient times that you want to share? Did you see some cool things (or ex-girlfriends) on a float at an Orange Bowl parade? Those girls always looked so darn PRETTY on those floats, didn't they... Ever lose track of your 15 year-old sister in a NW 36th street bar on New Year's Eve? (Hint on that one, when you come home at 2:00 AM and Sis ain't there and you don't know where she got off to, Mom will NOT be happy!) Everybody should have at least one neat memory from holidays in The Land of Sunshine and Beautiful Flowers. Let's share 'em.

Miami River Rat		10-Dec-2009 04:56
Don: The Grove Inn, 1480 NW 27th ave, would have been across the street from Tropical Hobbyland Indian Village. Musa Isle was on NW South River Drive.

charlis		09-Dec-2009 23:25
Pirate Parade update... new sponsor, for the next 3 years, is Seminole Hard Rock. Have not had a special Grand Marshal in many years. This year we will have one... Mike Alstott. Parade will be toned down a lot this year, due to the economy. I'll post pics, if anyone wants them... No, I am not going to the parade... I'll post pics from the local paper... Parade is January 30th. I do love the excitement when the pirates meet with the mayor... gun shots going on at lunch time. The mayor's office a 2 blocks from where I work. A sad memory is the way people ran for cover during the event a few months after 9-11.

Don Boyd		09-Dec-2009 15:58
There is a correction on the Grove Inn photo submitted by Larry Zink a few days ago. It was not located on Miami Beach but at 1480 NW 27th Avenue across from the Musa Isle Indian Village. There are some more photos of it coming. Don

Arizona Al		09-Dec-2009 02:34
Charlis/Miami Girl: Glad the Gasparilla Event continues. My recollections of the parade and related hoopla are from the mid 1950s to early 1960s which have certainly been occluded by the passage of time. I do recall the parade as my parents took the family from Miami to Tampa for the festival for several years. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix Arizona

charlis		09-Dec-2009 00:35
Busch Gardens... my first visit there was in the early 60's... the parrot show, the village, the train, the "sky ride", the Swiss restaurant, the brewery tour. In the late 60's they added a few things. Started adding "thriller" rides in the late 70's... a wild roller coaster type ride that ended up going through water. In the 80's they added a "river rafting" ride, a lot of other roller coaster type rides, expanded the "petting zoo". In the 90's they got even bigger... I worked there in the mid 90's. A fun job. Over the years, more rides added and less time spent on the animals, although they did add something to the "animal adventure" where you got to see the animals up close. The brewery was shut down, torn down and replaced with yet another roller coaster ride. I was there last year for an industry related event and did not even recognize the place! Good thing the event was for free!

charlis		09-Dec-2009 00:24
Gasparilla Parade... It's been in the local news a lot lately. We have the big parade along the bay, then the children's daytime version in Ybor and the night time version in Ybor. Dates were changed a few years ago when the Super Bowl came to town (not the last one) so that all the visitors for the Super Bowl would have something else to do. People are in an uproar about the daytime parade... too much drinking, no longer a family parade as drunks and adults push kids out of the way, partial nudity among parade watchers, not using port-a-potties, parking, etc. Not the parade we all knew in the 80's.

miami girl		08-Dec-2009 23:17
AZ Al: They were still having the Gasparilla Days when we left Tampa in 1982, it was comprised mostly of the Tampa "blue bloods" - us normal folks only got to be the spectators. I'm interested to hear Charlis' impression.

Fran		08-Dec-2009 21:18
Roberta, Hang in there! You and Lewis are not forgotten.

Leighton		08-Dec-2009 15:48
Charlis, OK, I was wrong...the South Miami punch that my mother bought in the 60s/70s was RED. Just FYI. When I was in South Miami (UM student) in the early 80s, I worked at a gift shop called "Sparkle Plenty" - also located in Dadeland. They may be in the Grove Shops (or whatever) these days. We have home movies - from around 1966 - of Tampa's Busch Gardens, when it just had parrots and a train (and gardens), and miniature fairy-tale village scenes. The parrots terrified me. I know the park chain recently sold, but that Busch still has a small stake, and that they may keep the name??????

Arizona Al		08-Dec-2009 08:47
Charlis: Do they still have the Gasparilla Pirate Festivle in Tampa? I remember my family driving from Miami to Tampa several times during my youth to watch the big parade. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

charlis		07-Dec-2009 22:26
Roberta... my thoughts and love are with you.

charlis		07-Dec-2009 22:25
Ray... religious jokes... you will appreciate this one... and it is not a joke. Got an email from my best friend from hi school about 2 nums and hot dogs. Brought back a favorite family story... My mother and uncle had come to the US in the early 30's. One uncle was a priest (later became a monsigneur). He took his neice and nephew to Central Park and treated them to their first hot dogs. CP was and is known for the great hot dog venders. Hot dogs were not a known food in France and Germany back then. Uncle Bill and the kids devoured the dogs. My uncle asked his uncle what they were made of. Uncle Bill explained. "But, Uncle Bill..." said my uncle, "It's Friday!" Uncle Bill, according to my mother, turned a shade of green and ran to the nearest trash can. This was when it was "against the catholic law" to eat meat on Friday's!

charlis		07-Dec-2009 22:18
Many xmas events cancelled this weekend in Tampa due to the weather. One was the boat parade. A great event. Hopefully the weather will be good for the S FL events. I loved going to it, way back when.

Roberta Perry Hughes		07-Dec-2009 10:29
Up all night, again. Not feeling well. Tending to Lewis, in-between doing other stuff, online. Hope you all are well, & comfortable. Feeling well is a gift, I have concluded. Today is Pearl Harbor Day. Please, fly your flags at half staff, in memory of those who gave their lives, on this date, in 1941. LARGO....! WHERE ARE YOU....?

Parks		07-Dec-2009 06:23
Ray, That sounds like the Jungle Queen. It's still there. Take a look at Junglequeen.com

Ray		07-Dec-2009 05:05
About boat rides in Ft. Lauderdale. This goes back to being a kid on vacation in Hollywood/Ft. Lauderdale. We took a cruise in the canals of Ft. Lauderdale to an "island" where we had dinner. I remember on the cruise as they were talking about the big houses we passed, they pointed a bright light to the house and all the Christmas lights would light up. The lights were on a photo cell and lit up only on demand from the tour boats. Anyone else remember these dinner cruises? Being a techie kid, the photocells fascinated me.

Ray		07-Dec-2009 04:58
About alcohol and religions... just had a situation about this at work. St. John Vianney Seminary (2900 SW 87 Ave) just had its 50th Anniversary a couple weeks ago. I went there fo high school in the 1970s so I attended the anniversary. In my work online calendar I had entered the weekend's events, including "Cocktails in the Refectory". My Baptist boss got a kick out of it. To not only have alcohol, but to actually have it on the weekend agenda! I did have to explain Refectory, a dining hall in a religious school. I'm scanning a lot of pictures from the history of the school. I hope to have them on the school alumni site soon. Another religious joke I heard on a cruise ship from the cruise director. It was a Saturday night. "Are there any Catholics on board? (loud cheers) Okay, many of you have asked about tomorow. (pause) Have no fear, there will be Bingo available all day" I think it's healthy to be able to have a sense of humor about religion as long as it's not hurtful. Ray

Nike		07-Dec-2009 03:12
Parks, It is the SF-88 site just across the bridge on the opposite side from Sausalito st the Golden Gate National Park at Marin Headlands. I have been there. I am in the process of something similar at Everglades National Park. We have everything but a real Nike. I am coming down to conduct a training course I developed for the Everglades National Park staff so they can conduct the tours. Thanks for the heads-up.

Leighton		07-Dec-2009 02:55
Parks, that may be it. One year around 1970, our church rented a boat, and I remember seeing lights all up and down the channels/canals, but not necessarily only on the boats.

Don Boyd		07-Dec-2009 02:27
More images from Alvin Lederer were added today: Musa Isle Grove on the Miami River in 1912 - in the Attractions gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120051915 The view from the Royal Palm Hotel looking south at the mouth of the Miami River and Brickell Point - in the Downtown gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120050263 in the Downtown gallery An image depicting black laborers preparing grapefruit for shipment - in the 1883 to 1919 gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120059341 The Tea House Plantation in Lemon City - in the 1883 to 1919 gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/120060995 Charlis: congrats on your moving to Miami Beach anniversary. Don

Parks		07-Dec-2009 01:23
Charles, Are you still looking for work? This probably won't help but I had to think of you when I saw the sign. There is a new barbeque opening across US1 from the University of Miami. It's called Smoke T. They're calling themselves a Southern Kitchen and Tap. A barbeque and bar sounded right up your alley. I wouldn't mind a bit if you moved back here.

Parks		07-Dec-2009 01:08
Hi Leighton, Next weekend there will be a big Christmas boat parade in Ft. Lauderdale. The boats will be all lit up and decorated. Is that what you're thinking about? Nike, I was watching the TV show Myth Busters last night and they went to a park in California that was a Nike Base. There were several Nike Hercules on display and they even showed one being lowered into an underground bunker. The mechanism was still in working order. I didn't get the name of the park but I bet you know. What is it? Are you coming to Miami? I still want a tour of the site in Everglades National Park.

Leighton		07-Dec-2009 00:10
Yeah, CK, I always hear that, but this is one PK that wasn't/isn't wild. I guess, perhaps, it has something to do with my parents being Presbyterian - strict, but never oppressive. So, are the Fort Lauderdale canal rides still running, too see the lights? (I guess that I have the right place.)

Charles Knight		06-Dec-2009 21:16
I had a good friend that was the son of a preacher...He was a wild one.

Nike		06-Dec-2009 15:40
Leighton, Thanks. I just wanted to make sure no offense taken as none was intended. I was raised in a super-religious holy-roller environment (Cocoanut Grove Church of God) and know how alcohol can vbe viewed by some. Fortunately, "I saw the light." Charlis -- Happy anniversary

charlis		06-Dec-2009 14:22
Happy Anniversary to me... 47 years ago today, 12-6, we moved to Miami Beach. Our lives changed forever... nice weather during the holidays, hurricanes, year round sun tans, meeting famous people all the time, cultural shock (I came down from a small town in OH)... snow boarding/skiing changed to surf boarding and water skiing. Christmas was shared with Chanuka. Learning a second language to ask where the bathroom was... The different types of food. South Florida was a good place to grow up in.

Don Boyd		06-Dec-2009 05:59
New photos added today courtesy of Larry Zink, distant kin of Chuck Zink who he never met: The Grove Inn on Miami Beach in 1943 - in the Restaurants gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120029384 Zink's Fountain Luncheonette in 1940 - in the Restaurants gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120029385 Zink's Diner in 1945 - in the Restaurants gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120029387 Closeup of Zink's Diner in 1945 - in the Restaurants gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120029386 Baker's Haulover - in the 1940's gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120031101 The hill at Greynolds Park - in the 1940's gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120031100 Ann Zink, Larry's mom at the old gas station in the 1940's - in the Individuals & Small Groups gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/120031446 Naval personnel at NAS Miami at Opa-locka in 1943 - in the Aviation gallery, Opa-locka sub-gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/120031927 Don

Fran		06-Dec-2009 04:27
Nope we don't :)

Leighton		06-Dec-2009 04:08
Sounds good, Charlis, but to clarify - frozen fruit AND fruit/juice ring in punch?? Anyway, I'll give it a "shot". However, we'll stick to high octane eggnog for the open house in a few weeks. It's always fun to serve mixed drinks in the Bible Belt - it throws the Baptist neighbors for a loop, to have liquor in the preacher's house. I've spent 20 years in San Antonio, and Catholics don't have that problem. (Nike - I was teasing you.) My mother's current substitute for the long-lost South Miami punch (non-alcoholic) is 1 can of orange juice, 1 can of pineapple juice, 1 2-liter bottle of ginger ale and 1 packet of lime Kool-Aid (hard to find). Tastes great with vodka.

charlis		05-Dec-2009 22:15
leighton... the frozen fruit acted a ice... not diluting the punch! I forgot to add a special part of the punch... I made an ice ring of fruit and juice to keep the mix cold.

Don Boyd		05-Dec-2009 04:31
Recent photos added this week courtesy of Alvin Lederer: Early automobile in Arch Creek, in the 30's gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119854595 Sears on Biscayne Boulevard in 1959, in the Shopping gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119855827 Miami Beach Dog Track, in the Attractions gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119856077 Miami Biltmore Hotel and Country Club in the 1930's, in the Hotels gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119856206 Mouth of the Miami River, in the 1930's gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119856986 Aerial view of Sunny Isles in the 1950's, in the 50's gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119922333 The Ocean Palm Motor Hotel in the 1950's, in the Hotels/Motels gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119922479 1955 image of sunbathers at Haulover Beach, now in the 1950's gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119923192 The Alcazar and Miami News Tower, in the Downtown gallery and the Hotels/Motels gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119934643 The County Causeway to Miami Beach, in the 1920's gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/image/119935400 Don

Nike		05-Dec-2009 04:02
Oops! Maybe not.

Leighton		05-Dec-2009 03:53
I was about 8, and my dad was/is a preacher - whadda you think?

Nike		05-Dec-2009 02:15
Leighton, Did you mix it with triple sec and tequilla?

Leighton		05-Dec-2009 00:34
OK, I just asked my mom about it - the punch - it was a liquid concentrate she bought on Sunset, in South Miami. Right down from a book store, and our dentist. (In the early-80s, I would live in the area, at the San Remo Apts., right on Riviera Park (?), across from the Publix.) Charlis - what do you do with the frozen fruit? Just let it soak in the punch?

charlis		04-Dec-2009 23:18
leigh... I lived in S Miami in the early 70's and have no memory of the green punch. It was at that time that I got a great recipe for a holiday punch... 1 can of Hawiian Punch, 1 large bottle of 7-up, a bottle of Rum, a bottle of Southern Comfort, a bag of frozen fruit... We called it the "Punch Punch"

Guest		04-Dec-2009 23:07
Hey Leighton, I never heard of the green punch...Miami is an Indian word.

whitebelt		04-Dec-2009 18:07
My father used to tell a story about having to run the Indians off the property where the Seminole Rock quarry used to be on Blue Lagoon when a new business started there after WWII. That was around Red Road and just south of the airport. Green Christmas punch, Leighton? Don't recall that. Hopefully any posters that know of such will have no reservations in sharing such.

Leighton		04-Dec-2009 16:54
Quick, somebody post a Miami memory. Also, three years later, and I'm STILL looking for the source of that powdered, green punch mix my mother bought in South Miami (or maybe off Kendall) every Christmas - 60s/early 70s. It wasn't on a reservation...

whitebelt		04-Dec-2009 12:06
Al, I forgot. When you do read up you will see there were many instances of them going to court, and even winning. Some even went to Europe as dignitaries and representatives of their peoples. The treaty problems arose because of a lack of a strong central government and communications and transportation of the day. Things were a lot more localized back then.

whitebelt		04-Dec-2009 12:01
Al, I was making reference to the fact that Indians were very good at pushing other tribes off their territory, enslaving and killing while doing so. Even engaging in genocide. Few tribes have a history going back more than several hundred years. If some of them didn't embrace the colonists as allies in wars with their enemies they wouldn't have been swarmed over by later waves of colonists. The Europeans were just an addition to an age old tradition and mix of peoples. Look up the Gallina people. The spread of the Aztecs. The really fierce Indians of Florida and the Caribbean long before the Seminoles took over. Look how many Indian leaders were part white. Read up on King Philip's War in the New England colonies. The constant warfare between Cherokee and Iroquois, who spoke related languages. Read about many of the colonists that sympathized about the plight of the Indians even way back when. The settlement of this country was a lot more complex than portrayed insofar as the interactions of people. It wasn't about the race, it was about the cultures. If it was all about race there wouldn't have been so many intermarriages. It was the same social phenomenon that has occurred in every corner of the globe by every group that needed to expand.

Arizona Al		04-Dec-2009 09:17
Whitebelt: If one has the time and inclination to study the history of the Native Americans from 1492 to the early 1900s they would find that in not one instance did they or any of their descendants have the opportunity to take the original colonists and subsequent Americans to court for reparations for broken treatys, geographical displacement, genocidal actions, social/cultural distruction and ideographic identity elimination although these and many more transgressions are historically and academically documented....Sorry Jeff I got on my soapbox,,I won't do it anymore:) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		04-Dec-2009 00:45
Charlis, I read elsewhere Tampa and the other place were established as reservations in 1979. Takes a while to kick the natives off their property. If and when I move I will have to quit smoking. No reservations in that area. Got addicted to the Indian brand Seneca out of Canada. Was $10 a carton 4 years ago, then 12, then 14, then 20. $22 now. Had supply problems for a while because the Canadian government was trying to tax them. Guess they got that resolved. Reckon the Indians lost. If you ever want to visit out in New Mexico, give the Inn of the Mountain Gods in Ruidoso a try. Mescalero Apache casino and resort. Very nice place, very nice people. Very tranquil setting. Not far from Texas. But it is not like the rest of New Mexico except for the scenery.

charlis		03-Dec-2009 23:59
seminoles in Tampa... I do have to admit that I go to the location... to buy cigs.

charlis		03-Dec-2009 23:57
whitebelt... love the "sacred shrine" thing about Tampa... built a casino. 1979? Holiday Inn was still there in the late 80's!

whitebelt		03-Dec-2009 22:13
Al, it is a good thing they are getting so wealthy. Eventually there may be descendants of those they had displaced rudely showing up, finding a sharp lawyer and suing for reparations. Funny thing about life. If everything had not occurred in the past exactly as it had none of us would be here now to whine about it.

Arizona Al		03-Dec-2009 18:36
Casinos and large revenues? Poetic, social and economic justice for the Native Americans who suffered untold horrors and genocide at the hands of the European Colonists and later the Americans from 1492 until the mid 1970s as I see it. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well amongst no less that 7 Major Casinos and Resorts in Phoenix Arizona.

whitebelt		03-Dec-2009 12:32
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/nov/25/off-reservation-indian-gambling-raises-concerns/ Follow the money. If it adds money to government coffers it will surely be approved. For education, of course. ;-)

Don Boyd		03-Dec-2009 03:59
Thanks Charlis and Whitebelt. Now that Whitebelt posted that link we now know how the Seminoles ended up there. It sure seems strange to me that tribes can add more reservations and then casinos after that. Don

whitebelt		03-Dec-2009 00:39
"The tribe expanded its presence by adding small reservations in Immokalee and Tampa. It bought nine acres in Hillsborough County for a sacred shrine and cultural center and, after getting federal approval, built a 1,400-seat bingo hall and a cigarette shop that now is home to the state's largest casino, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino." http://www.tampabay.com/news/perspective/article1054214.ece Immokalee and Tampa reservations were established in 1979.

charlis		03-Dec-2009 00:23
Don... Tampa casino... I moved up here in the eary 70's. The Holiday Inn was old than. Property records do not show that Seminoles owned the land. (I work for the county and have access to records...)

Don Boyd		02-Dec-2009 05:05
Charlis, are you sure that the Holiday Inn owned the land or did they lease it from the Seminoles? I don't know about tribes being able to buy more land and establish new reservations and I tend to think that's prohibited. Otherwise the Seminoles have enough money to buy a few blocks of South Beach and put up a monster casino that would really rake in the bucks. Don

charlis		02-Dec-2009 00:28
The casino up here in Tampa is on property previously owned by a Holiday Inn!

whitebelt		01-Dec-2009 13:07
Looks like you are right, Don. http://www.semtribe.com/TourismAndEnterprises/ I didn't know they were the first to do the casino thing.

Don Boyd		01-Dec-2009 06:53
Whitebelt, I could be wrong but I think that all of the casinos are on Seminole reservations. The one in Hollywood is a gold mine because it's between US 441 and the Florida Turnpike just south of the Griffin Road interchange so it's easy to get to. Don

Miami River Rat		01-Dec-2009 03:48
The Miccosukees also do extremely well from their gambling enterprises. Too well, according to many of those who care about them. Giving each man, woman and child $25,000+ every year is not good. That, plus free medical care and housing makes for too much time on one's hands and too much money. All that with no need to work has had some tragic results.

Parks		01-Dec-2009 02:18
Kathy Hogan, Art and Peggy Crimmins were very good friends of my Dad. Art was one of my heros as I was growing up. What an interesting and wonderful life he led. I haven't heard from Peggy in several years. Do you know if she still lives in South Carolina? Next time you come through Miami, please contact me. I would love to see Traveler. I don't want to post my personal email address but you can contact me through my business web site: www.hopkins-carter.com

whitebelt		01-Dec-2009 01:21
Don, I was under the belief casinos had to be on the rez, unless it was too far to commute for tribal members to work there. Maybe it is on a state by state basis and not a Federal thing. I know one tribe out here is trying to get one over 200 miles away and meeting a lot of resistance. That tribe is in the hinterlands, though. There are 19 tribes out here. But then, they ran the Mafia out of the casinos here some time back. They never got ran out of Miami. As long as the Seminoles keep filling state coffers they will probably keep making money. The state should be getting a large chunk of their casino income. Those are some big casinos, though. I thought the Seminoles did sign a treaty. They wouldn't be recognized as a tribe if they didn't. The Miccosukees didn't get anything until they did, and they were the last or one of the last two that I heard of. They learn quick, don't they?

Don Boyd		01-Dec-2009 00:39
Whitebelt, you've got to be kidding me. The Seminoles are probably the richest Indian tribe in the nation with their casinos - seehttp://www.theseminolecasinos.com/ . They're also the only tribe that never signed a peace treaty so in this continuing war with the white man they're robbing the non-Indians daily of millions. The last I've read every registered Seminole makes $36K a year off of the tribe's income and that was years ago before their Hollywood Hard Rock Hotel and Casino really grew. In 2006 the Seminoles bought virtually all of the Hard Rock Hotel and Cafe chain (Las Vegas not included) for almost $1 billion. The poor ol' Miccosukee Indians only have one casino at Krome and the Tamiami Trailhttp://www.miccosukee.com/ and I wasn't impressed by it at all in comparison to the Seminoles Hard Rock casino in Hollywood. The state and the Seminoles recently signed an agreement so that only Indians can buy the cheap cigs; non-Indians have to pay the high as hell state per pack tax ($1 or more) if they buy at the Indian stores. Don

Jim & Kathy Hogan		30-Nov-2009 23:33
Kathy My husband and I own Art Crimmins famous Traveler. We have owned Traveler for 35 years, and have lived on Traveler for 23 yrs. Traveler has quite a history, and we are fortunate to have a lot of her background material. Since 1994, we have taken Traveler up and down the ICW from Solomons, MD to the Keys, as well as New York and New England.

Fran		29-Nov-2009 22:54
Miami Girl, Good or bad not sure? I will say that David's family is a fine family. Great people, his dad taught all phases of math for many years in Miami Springs. Roberta, there is a support group online and you might want to take a peek.

charlis		29-Nov-2009 21:17
Don... good post about Hialeah... it was my favorite track for thoroughbred racing when I ived down there. Gald to see that it has reopened.

charlis		29-Nov-2009 21:14
Casinos... I remember the big thing about getting them allowed on Miami Beach back in the mid 60's. The "Bleau" was even remodeled in case the vote passed... it wasn't. As I recall, the 'noles and influencials from the Bahamas put up a big fight saying it would take money from them. My mother ws in St. Francis Hospital and I remember the nuns/nurses talking about gambling on MB and the "in" of it.

whitebelt		29-Nov-2009 16:58
Don, Hialeah track should have given the Seminoles a portion of the land as an atonement for the past injustices of the white man. Then the Seminoles could build a casino on it and they would draw from that crowd, and maybe get a piece of the action in some way. :-) Would subsidize the horse racing. I have 5 Indian casinos within 20 miles of where i live, 2 within 3 miles. One a big fancy one with a Hilton hotel. Nice places to get something to eat and pass the time on occasion. The Frog Princess is my favorite slot machine. Will miss them if and when I move. Especially the cheap cigarettes. Will have to quit.

Miami Girl		29-Nov-2009 16:55
Fran, no cousin named David that I'm aware of, is that a good or bad thing? Roberta, as I said earlier Lewis is lucky to have you! The journal idea that Fran had is a good one, maybe it could be made into a book later on to help others through the same trials, you really do write so well.

Don Boyd		29-Nov-2009 16:40
Thank you for your update, Roberta. I'm glad to hear that you have some help from your son and his family. Hooray, Hialeah Park re-opened yesterday to a large crowd for quarter horse racing. Here's a nice article about the re-opening: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/54179/overflow-crowd-ushers-in-hialeah-park-meet Don

whitebelt		29-Nov-2009 14:13
Roberta, your cowboy got knocked out of the saddle and is a little confused. Just as he has done in the past he will find a way around the changes going on in him and the obstacles he has to deal with. The brain and consciousness is very good at adapting when it realizes what is going on. He is tough stuff. Once it clicks in his head he isn't going to let it beat him he will stabilize quite a bit. I could never be an actor. I am 100% engineer/technician, and occasional kick ball for the gods.

Fran		29-Nov-2009 06:23
Roberta, you and Lewis are a true gift. I hope that you are keeping a journal. I have read that it helps. You have a way of expressing your voice that makes one want to read what you have written. Miami girl, do you have a cousin David, about your age? Just curious?

Roberta Perry Hughes		29-Nov-2009 06:06
Don... When I clicked onto the link, to miapoliscity, I only got the one image. What in the hell is that, anyway....?? To me, it appears to be some sort of a strange-looking multi-floored parking deck, with greenery on the top floor, with a bizarrely huge radio tower, or other aerial of some sort, in the midst of it....?? If this project goes through, what will become of Jungle Island, where all of the exotic birds are now living, from what was once Parrot Jungle.....?? Charles Knight....You will soon find employment. There are many places in the area, in need of your expertise, no doubt....! Hang in there....!! Whitebelt....Your face has a lot of character. Have you ever considered getting involved in a local Little Theater group....? I think you would enjoy it, & in just looking at you, I am willing to bet that you would be good, at "trodding the boards." Leighton....I meant to comment, earlier, at what gorgeous legs you have, in the image of you leaning against that tree, in the Rogue's Gallery....! Don.....Thanks so much, for posting the extra images of me, & also of my cowboy, Lewis, in the Rogue's Gallery. He qualifies to be there, as he lived in Miami Beach, as a child, back when it was known as Fulford. In the newly added image of him, he is mounted on "Little Bit," an Appaloosa mare, at Oak Hill Farms, back when he was a working cowboy, or herdsman, on a Dairy Farm/Cattle operation, in Leesburg, Georgia. He worked sun-up to sundown, 6 1/2 days a week, in those days. Hard work, but colorful....!! We found many arrowheads, drill bits, pottery shards, & large lance points....even a flint knife blade....!! We are doing o.k., during the day. He is managing to feed & water our 3 horses, & give them hay, twice a day. It's the nights, that are a trial....for us both. He has fallen, twice, in the same night, suffering a large skin tear, to his left arm. I am an expert, at closing skin tears, to where they heal, leaving only a thin, silver scar, as I was a Geriatrics nurse, for > 17 years, so, I am truly grateful, for that background, & training. I only wish I were more able-bodied than I am, & that I had not given up driving, when I did. I am doing all that I can, to keep my dear husband comfortable, & see to his needs. I love him, so very dearly, & so tenderly, & more than life. My son & his wife live a mere 16 miles away, in Louisville, & have stepped-up-to-the- plate, to come over & help me, by doing things, in the house, to make it a safer environment, & make it a lot easier for me to tend to Lewis, at night. They are also taking us to out-of-town appointments, even taking off a day from work, to do so. Since Lewis does o.k., during the day, I use that time to catch up on my rest, as I am up all night....which is really nothing new, for me, as I have always been a night owl, anyway. Cherish your loved ones. Let them know you love them, each & everyday. Resolve to be committed to them, "in sickness & in health." You never know how your life can change forever, so suddenly, & drastically, by illness, or from injury. But the love you have, for one another.....it grows stronger. For us, it has, anyway, & we are so very glad, to have one another. Take care, y'all.... ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Leighton		29-Nov-2009 05:39
Pretty obvious that the concept is merely just that. It isn't going to happen. Somebody just had the balls the put it on the Internet.

Jeff		29-Nov-2009 00:34
"Miapolis" is a wonderful monument to the sheer idiocy and lack of respect for what this area WAS (a tropical vacation paradise) that typifies the greed of our developers and politicians. If it DOES get built, may it crumble and sink into Biscayne Bay minutes after it is completed and every human being has safely left the area and gone home... after that, may it be dredged and removed, and the bill for the clean-up be charged back to the personal accounts of those same greedy developers and politicians.

whitebelt		28-Nov-2009 22:29
Miami has always been a city of con artists and hustlers. Plus the suckers. I love the $100 and $500 donation page. Don't worry, it won't get built. Just imagine the sewer line they would have to put in. Plus the airport interference.

Guest		28-Nov-2009 19:35
I think it will make a wonderful artificial reef after the first cat. 4 storm.

Arizona Al		28-Nov-2009 18:46
Whitebelt; Probably not getting married until age 51 (12 years ago) should be factored into the equation:):) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and temporarily in Carlsbad, California

Miami River Rat		28-Nov-2009 14:14
Concerning the new project, hell, let's don't leave any single acre of land in the county un-paved. Build on it, pave over it or dig it up! With just a little more effort EVERYTHING can be ruined. Charles :Good luck on the job hunt. Sometimes these things turn out to be a positive event. Six months from now you may well be better off than before the layoff.

Miami Girl		28-Nov-2009 14:09
Sorry, I meant "too big to fail" -- I hate it when people make that spelling mistake! To, too and two!!!

Miami Girl		28-Nov-2009 14:07
Well, in my opinion this Miapolis is hideous! It seems as if the developers are trying to emulate Dubai - which is now in major financial trouble. Hope they don't want to use any tax dollars while building it or later when it becomes "to big to fail".

Don Boyd		28-Nov-2009 05:32
I don't know how far away this is from becoming a reality, financing and government approval-wise, but this website shows a proposed project on Watson Island where Jungle Island (originally Parrot Jungle after the move from the southwest section) is currently. http://www.miapoliscity.com/design.html Insane in my book! Don

miami girl		27-Nov-2009 20:25
Charles, being laid off can turn out to be a blessing. Best of luck to you and keep thinking positive.

whitebelt		27-Nov-2009 18:08
I'm trying to figure out why what worked for Alan made a wreck out of me.

charlis		27-Nov-2009 17:42
Vaseline hair gel... brought back a memory of a funny story told about my father in the late 40's. He looked a lot like Elvis, when I look at old pics. You guys thought you had it bad with the gooey mess the stuff made of your hair when in S Fl. My father was in France and was visiting my mother's grandmother. The house was very old, where the fireplace was once used for cooking. It was winter, cold, and my father was sitting in front of the fireplace to get warm. My mother told me that she had heard a weird noise and looked at my father. His hair was standing straight up with sparks coming from it! Grandmere grabbed a bucket of water and threw it on my father! Until the day he died, he never sat in front of a fire place again!

charlis		27-Nov-2009 17:31
Happy holidays to all. Cool weather in Tampa helped get me in to the mood, but the CBS coverage of the parade got me out of it. CBS was the first network to air the parade in 1948. The holidays did not start until we saw Santa. This year's coverage spent little time on the floats, the bands, the crowds, but spent more time in the booth talking to celebrities, co-hosts talking about what they were having for dinner, what they were doing with leftovers, Rachel Ray cooking advice, and the funniest moment... a cut away to football coverage... at the FOX studio! The parade could be seen on a monitor behind the co-hosts. When we all were children we did not see anything related to Christmas until after t-day. I saw decorations in Wal-Mart in July while Lowes had replaced the Garden section with holiday decorations in September. Okay... time to work off yesterday's dinner and get ready for leftovers.

Fran		27-Nov-2009 16:39
Charles, New direction, new job, good luck.:)

Nike		27-Nov-2009 16:28
OK, I admit it. I had an aspiren and Coke once. W-O-W, what a feeling.

whitebelt		27-Nov-2009 16:06
Best of luck to you, Charles. You have the right attitude. Take it from someone that God has swung his heavy foot several times on to get out of some situations. Sometimes in to worse. But it all works out in the end. The worst thing in life is worrying about it.

Charles Knight		27-Nov-2009 15:16
OK...I admit it, went a few times with my band mates from Miami High, but entertainment was at a premium and I never inhaled (I also have a bridge for sale!). On the more serious side. I thank God for family...I was laid off work on Wed. evening, my wife is being very supportive but I can't afford to be out of work so I'll hit the streets first thing Mon. morning and take anything while I continue the quest, I am a master Bartender with management exp. as well...The up side to a recession is that folks tend to drink more. I'm not really sure if that's a good thing but I'll put it to use anyway. My spirits are high because I know that for every door that closes... Wish me luck folks.

Miami River Rat		27-Nov-2009 05:25
All right Lee Martines! Another brave soul stands up and admits to youthful folly. C'mon guys, I know there just HAS to be somebody else on here that went to the Bard. 'Fess up!

Lee Martines		27-Nov-2009 00:50
To Miami River Rat: I wouldn't want everyone to think that you were the only pervert on here, so I have to admit that I also used to attend the stage shows at the Bard Theater in Little River. It was a very enlightening experience for young teens. Earlier, Little River used to be a fun place to visit on Saturdays with the Rosetta Theater providing the typical kid's shows lasting for hours, and the Royal Castle where you could order "three burgers and a birch" for 35 cents. To the east of NE 2nd Ave on 79th St was a bowling alley that only cost a dime a line if one in your group set your own pins. If you wanted a pin boy to set for you, it cost another dime. Teen dances on the weekend were also very popular in Little River.

Don Boyd		26-Nov-2009 20:53
Happy Thanksgiving to all the Rogues. We've already pigged out at a buffet at Don Shula's Hotel here in Miami Lakes where we ran into several long-time friends and we're now relaxing. Speaking of the 60's, I loved the 60's despite all the tension with Cuba and the missile blockade. Nearby Opa-locka Airport was a sea of tents on the south side with troops stretched from LeJeune Road to Red Road - I've never seen so much military in this area. Nike, that was a good story about the Golden Glades Drive-In and what they did for y'all. Roberta, thanks for the update and I'll be in touch later if I can stop shopping for Black Friday bargains online today. Don

whitebelt		26-Nov-2009 17:55
There was one good thing about the 60's. No more Vaseline hair tonic. No more slicked down hair. God, I hated that stuff, especially what it did to shirt collars sweating like a pig in south Florida. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Miami River Rat		26-Nov-2009 17:28
I was stationed at Tyndall AFB, Near Panama City Florida during the Cuban Missile Crisis. We had to clear our Hangar of aircraft because the 101st Airborne needed the inside space for their equipment. Hangar looked funny filled with jeeps and other materials, all on drop pads ready to be parachuted into Cuba. We had several hundred paratroopers ready to go, living in tents just west of the hangar I worked in. Does anybody else remember "Havana Hannah"? Patterned after Tokyo Rose, Hannah was broadcasting on a Cuban station, telling all the dire things that were waiting for American troops if we invaded. Her station came in loud and clear at Tyndall. We'd sit near the paratrooper's tents with portable radios and all get a good laugh at "Hannah." As for the '60's in general, anybody that says they weren't so bad didn't live through those times.

Nike		26-Nov-2009 16:56
In addition, President Kennedy also recognized the Air Force units that provided the recon photos of the Russian SS4 and SS5 missiles in Cuba. He then went to Key West to award the Navy and Army HAWK units with the same citation.

Nike		26-Nov-2009 16:23
In addition, President Kennedy also recognized the Air Force units that provided the recon photos of the Russian SS4 and SS5 missiles in Cuba. He then went to Key West to award the Navy and Army HAWK units with the same citation.

Nike		26-Nov-2009 14:30
Forty-seven years ago today (November 26, 1962), President John F. Kennedy came to south Florida. His mission was to officially recognize the men of 2nd Missile Battalion 52nd Air Defense Artillery (ADA) who manned the Nike Hercules and HAWK missile sites. During that ceremony, President Kennedy personally presented the Presidential Meritorious Unit Citation to the men for their actions under conditions that would either start or prevent World War III and the potential for thermonuclear annihilation of mankind. It is the only time that the Presidential Citation was awarded for soldiers not having to what they were trained for, "launch nuclear missiles towards an enemy." This past Veterans Day, my grandson's elementary school honored veterans with a program. Of course I proudly wore my Dress Blues with that President Citation attached. I'm still proud to were it and that it still fits. I still get choked up every time the National Anthem is played. I have a lot to be thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving to all the Miami Rouges, wherever you are. Nike

whitebelt		26-Nov-2009 12:52
I was active duty Army from 1969 to 1976. The Army was a wreck. Everyone had a case of the a*, there was no esprit de corps, there was no focus. As the war wound down it got even more chickensht. Career soldiers were getting out in droves. Guys with 12 and 14 years of service. Out into a sick society. I have bad memories of those times. The 60's and the 70's was a time when the wolves took advantage of the sheep. Opportunists that fomented anarchy to further their own interests. The 80's and 90's weren't much better. Greed became good. This century is introducing us to reality again. The hold of the mainstream media has been broken by the internet. An era is passing. For the better. God bless these guys in the military now. Back in our times there were assignments all over the world. Neat and interesting places to go. Now, nothing but hellholes. One after another. Huge strains on the personal lives of military members. We need to go back to the draft. The draft got guys off the block and a chance in life they never would have had otherwise. The draft built a brotherhood and a sense of nation. We need it again, but this time not as a source of cannon fodder.

Fran		26-Nov-2009 05:05
Ditto to Miami Girl and Charles. Now, that mention of a commune and brain fried on drugs. Instead stayed away from drugs, graduated from college, and thought about a commune. Didn't find the warning label for a happy married life. However, I had three loving kids that filled the empty space of a bad time. Myself and family will call to mind, those who can not be there. Those who serve our country and those who help make life a little better for everyone. Happy Thanksgiving!

Charles Knight		26-Nov-2009 02:48
To ALL of you that served or are "watching our backs" today, thank you. Ar-Al, I know of which ye speak. Although I was one year too young when the draft ended. And was a counter culture type, I had (and continue to) try to see the big picture as it were. My mentor whom I called Uncle Frankie was in the Rangers in Vietnam, I'll never forget the obvious discomfort he was in during a well deserved break when he came home for a short while. Upon seeing him during that brief respite I naively asked what war was like, his response was vague so I pushed him until he recounted a couple of horrible scenarios. At the time I didn't realize how painful it must have been for him and didn't think anything of it. He eventually came home for good. Uncle Frankie was no longer anyone's mentor. He became reclusive and flew off the handle at the slightest provocation . It was in nineteen seventy four when Frankie put his pain behind him, he used a bullet to fix what the VA couldn't. I think of him often and of those that have endured the hardship of battle. I raise my glass to you all and thank you for allowing me the opportunity to do so. Happy Thanksgiving to all of my "Sparkle City" friends, Charles.

Miami Girl		26-Nov-2009 02:16
Good for you Nike - and you ain't too ugly! I'm proud of every single one of you who've served. Thank you all and happy Thanksgiving to this crazy bunch.

Nike		26-Nov-2009 01:15
Even though I served on active duty from 1962-1965, and served another twelve years in the reserves, after September 11th, 2001, I still wanted to put a uniform on and serve. So, I went to the local Army Recruiter officir here in Atlanta to sign up at age 56. The recruiter apologized and told me " I think you're too old, Sarge." Too old for what? I'm not too old to pull a trigger. I demanded "another" opinion. He said, "O.K., you too ugly, too."

whitebelt		25-Nov-2009 23:57
Al, in 1970 I was still in AIT in Ft. Monmouth, New Jersey. They had a country music concert in Newark they sent some us to, families included. I took my wife. The freaks were out on the sidewalk and when they spotted the Army bus of course they started salivating. Then they spit on us when we got off to go into the theater. Guys bought wigs to go to out on the town. Trust me, I have little love for the love children, or draft dodgers.

Arizona Al		25-Nov-2009 23:06
Whitebelt: Roger that.When I mustered out in 1967 a lieutennant advised us to change into civilian clothes when we left post in San Diego and took a short bus ride to the airport to catch a commercial flight to Miami. He told us that the "hippies and radicals" would spit on (and worse) any military personnel. After a year in the Nam as an infantry combat support specialist I would have actually welcomed the opportunity to "engage" a passive enemy for a change but relented and changed into civvies. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. formerly SPC-4 Alan Ogus, , 103 Combat Support Bat. Chu Lai South Vietnam

charlis		25-Nov-2009 22:44
Happy t-day to all. Remember that no xmas decorations are to be placed until after you see Santa in the Macy's Parade. Would you believe that some landscapers here in Tampa are spray painting yards white with the eco-freindly paint used on football fields. For a few extra $'s they will add glitter for that "freshly fallen snow" effect.

whitebelt		25-Nov-2009 22:39
Miami Girl, they spit on anyone in uniform.

Nike		25-Nov-2009 22:38
Thanks, Miami Girl from a Miami Guy

Miami Girl		25-Nov-2009 21:20
Nike, I'm so pleased to hear that - there were patriotic people in the 60's. I remember the soldiers camped out in our gym and locker rooms at Palmetto for a couple weeks before they could be set up at those sites - they were appreciated in those days (some real hotties too). Then the hippies got started with the "make love not war" thing. If I had gone to college in '65 instead of getting married to a military man, I probably would have ended up in a commune with my brain fried on drugs, but I hope I never would have been one of those who spit on the returning soldiers from Nam.

Nike		25-Nov-2009 10:05
In 1962, after the actual "crisis" of the Cuban Missile Crisis was over, we were allowed off-post for R&R. One place the G.I.s liked to go was the Golden Glades Drive-In just off the Palmetto Expressway. We would load up 10-15 of us guys (sorry, there were no girls on any Nike sites) on a 5-ton military truck every evening and pull up to the drive-in with full intentions of paying to get in. They would never let us pay because of the significance of our presence then. However, I'm certain they made up for it with all the money we spent at the concession stand. Imagine, a military truck full of soldiers next to cars full of teenagers making out and families all around. We spent more time talking to the curious children than we did watching the movies. The people in the cars actually cheered us when we arrived every evening. A couple of the guys met girls that way which ended up in a dating relationship. That was a great time.

Miami Girl		25-Nov-2009 01:46
Roberta: My heart goes out to you and your honey Lewis, he's lucky to have you by his side. Getting old is a scary thought these days. At this time we're planning a move out of Yankee land and back down south to Augusta, GA in two years - maybe we can get together!

charlis		24-Nov-2009 23:24
Roberta... you know my love and thoughts are with you. I am boiling a turkey breast with noodles, serving with mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie... forgot to buy the cranberry sauce. Me and the fat cat will be very happy with the dinner as it is supposed to be in the 60's on t-day down here in Tampa. Hope it is cold on xmas day so I can make the Bott Boi.

charlis		24-Nov-2009 23:20
Roberta... do not forget the Bott Boi for xmas! For those of you who do not know of this family tradition... Roberta loved it.... This is only for cold weather. Take a ham with "bone in" and put in a pot. Cover with water. Pour in one pack of navy beans and bring to a boil. When the beans "split", remove the ham and the beans from the new broth. Add noodles... these can be home made or store bought. Have to buy the PA Dutch Wide noodles or make them from scratch... flour, egg, water... The aroma will make you so hungry that you will eat 2 helpings before you realize that you are full!

Arizona Al		24-Nov-2009 17:11
Whitebelt: Thanks..I owe it all to drinking, drugging and womanizing from age 18 to 45:):) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and fervently searching for his misplaced bottle of Geritol in Phoenix, Arizona

Roberta Perry Hughes		24-Nov-2009 08:52
Hello, dear ones. Hope you all are well, & feeling good. I think everyone in the Rogue's Gallery looks fantastic....!! To me, Jeff is the least changed, so far. Miami River Rat.....the story of your family's closure, re: finally bringing your father's remains home, for a full honors burial service at Arlington National Cemetery, is the most moving account I have ever read. It should be on the Evening News, or one of the other evening programs, to be shared with the rest of the country. I cannot begin to imagine, the gamut of emotions, for such an event as that. Lewis & I are doing o.k., so far. He has good days, for which I am truly thankful. Nights can be a trial, for us both, but we are getting through it, together. I love him, so very much. We are looking forward to Thanksgiving. I will roast a stuffed fat hen, bake a pumpkin pie, have the usual vegetables on-the-side, chilled sliced cranberry sauce, hot buttered dinner rolls, & deviled eggs, & I will make iced tea. I hope that the world entire, will be fed a wonderful dinner, too. We both are somberly pensive, & reflecting, not so much on what we have lost, & will lose, but on what we still have: each other.....for which we are truly thankful, not just reserved for a holiday, but, for every day that we are together. Largo.....!!! Where are you.....??????? I miss you.....!! Be sweet, y'all....talk to you, later.... #############################################################################

whitebelt		23-Nov-2009 15:27
Fran, thank you for clarifying that. I will have to say Alan is the most well preserved of us.

Fran		23-Nov-2009 14:03
Whitebelt, my original comment was not about you.:) However, have a nice holiday.

Fran		23-Nov-2009 04:56
Whitebelt, thanks for the info.

whitebelt		22-Nov-2009 19:55
Fran, losing teeth will change your appearance.

Fran		22-Nov-2009 19:17
You know Charlis, you might be on to something. There is a set of pictures that the mouth does not match the younger picture. Who knows, may be a sign of aging? Men may age differently than women. Humor got to love it. :)

charlis		22-Nov-2009 18:51
Don... the Roque's Gallery is looking great! The pics in my mind of some people do not match the pics on the site, while others do match. Thanks for putting up the site. Hope all is well with you and yours.

Don Boyd		21-Nov-2009 22:19
"Miami Girl" (Jean Hale Lawson) now has two photos up in the Rogues Gallery. Thanks Jean! Roberta - sorry to hear the diagnosis. Please keep us posted when you can find the time. Miami River Rat - that was an amazing story and it was great to read about it. I recently read an article about rich aircraft collectors removing aircraft from jungles to restore them with little regard for the remains if any, totally hindering missing-in-action personnel investigations. Sick! http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2009/05/25/remains_are_lost_in_race_for_relics/ Don

charlis		21-Nov-2009 21:04
Rat... your story is great. My friend Evie... her uncle Shimey was shot down over Germany. Luckily he was rescued by a German family that helped the Jews and they helped him get out of Germany. My mother, the daughter of an American Diplomatic Corp woker, grew up in France and Germany, ... lived in Germany during the Hitler years... the stories she used to tell were amazing. As a child, my neighbor had married a Japanese women... mid 1950's. She used to share stories with my mother about WW2 and she made a comment that will live with me forever... "Thank goodness for the Americans. Many lost their lives... but it was the government that was to blame... not the citizens of Japan."

charlis		21-Nov-2009 20:47
Fran... thanks.

Fran		21-Nov-2009 00:01
Charlis, I think that you would enjoy Pat Appleson's site. You can Google his name and mention the WFUN and the WOOK Reunion 2007. There are at least 50 pictures and they are listed with the names within the titles. :)

charlis		20-Nov-2009 23:25
Ray... the pics were great but it might help if you renamed the pics to include who was in them... Was that Rick Shaw in the red shirt?

charlis		20-Nov-2009 23:14
Fran... didn't even know about the party but I could not have attended anyways as I no longer live down south. I used to babysit Dunlap's kid/kids (been awhile...) and had many a breakfast with Ronnie Grant... if you call what he had a breakfast... a bagel and a Dr. Pepper! In the late 60's, if you heard a Jerry Lewis voice on WQAM, it was my friend Evie. Jeff and I got to meet a lot of people as celebs walked around the beach just like regular people. I even helped repossess Larry King's car in the late 60's! It was, if I remember right, a Toyota. The funny thing with that was it was my boyfriend who was part of the repo process for the bank he worked at... he had worked on King's show when they had the "Student Work With a Professional Day", or whatever they called it back, then the year before!

Miami River Rat		20-Nov-2009 22:15
Thanks to everyone for all the kind words. Charles Knight, a drink to salute is quite appropriate. That's also one of our family traditions. In fact, sometimes I think Hank Jr. sings "Family Tradition" with us in mind. Y'all hang in there.

Charles Knight		20-Nov-2009 05:42
Hey Rat, wow...What a story. I'll bet you're proud of your father and his contemporaries, I thank him and all like him often. We live in a wonderful country despite some problems and it is because of all the brave and heroic men and women that have sacrificed so very much for the rest of us. Brother I sincerely hope this has brought some peace of mind and closure to you and your family. Tonight after work I had a drink in salute to your father and you (a family tradition), God bless.

Parks		20-Nov-2009 05:02
Rat, Thank you for shareing that. I wish I could thank your father for his sacrifice. They truly were the greatest generation.

Jackie		20-Nov-2009 04:48
Miami River Rat: Thanks for sharing your amazing story. Just goes to show you that sometimes they get it right.

Fran		20-Nov-2009 04:30
Ray, I was invited and had to back out due to a health issue. I missed a great time and hope to view all of the pictures. Thanks, for sharing.

Ray		20-Nov-2009 03:28
If you want to see the pictures from the Radio Reunion... http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0BaNXDVozasWLC I'm in there somewhere. It was a great party. I just wish more of the engineering types had made it. Lots of Miami history. I told everyone about miamimemories.com. Hopefully some of them will join us. Ray

Nike		20-Nov-2009 02:19
Miami River Rat, Here's a saulte to your father for his service to our country. To Arizona Al and all the other veterans, I salute you too. Nike

Ray		20-Nov-2009 02:11
If you want to see the pictures from the Radio Reunion... http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0BaNXDVozasWLC I'm in there somewhere. It was a great party. I just wish more of the engineering types had made it. Lots of Miami history. I told everyone about miamimemories.com. Hopefully some of them will join us. Ray

Fran		20-Nov-2009 00:32
Charlis, did you attend the Miami Radio reunion this year? It was held on October 14,2009. Just curious? Pat Appleson has a web site that lists reunions and pictures of WQAM, WOOK,WFUN and more. You can google his name and the info will be listed there.

whitebelt		19-Nov-2009 23:56
OK, Charlis, I will take your word for that. I don't believe anything I see anyhow. :-) But the place was a hologram maker of some sort. I never "met" any celebrities, but I did shoot the bird at Ronald Reagan one time. But he probably didn't see it. The SOB had traffic all backed up for his imperial motorcade.

charlis		19-Nov-2009 23:51
Celebrites I have met... all of the the old WQAM crew... Jimmy the Greek (have his autograph), Jerry Lewis, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., a lot of locals, the author of "Helen and Teacher" and "Eleanor" (my "aunt" worked with the author of "Helen and Teacher"), one of the Beatles, Wayne Cochran, and a lot more...

charlis		19-Nov-2009 23:46
white... I can not help it... when I read a book I find errors... I am not looking for them... I just find them! Being a photographer and a graphic artist... I see mistakes. The pics are composites done the od fashioned way.

Miami Girl		19-Nov-2009 22:14
Miami River Rat: I got all choked up telling my husband the story. What a true miracle, especially the wallet - I would have been balling my eyes out! Yes, Arlington is a sacred place - every time we go to visit my parents graves we have to stop and see the changing of the guard. Totally Awesome! This month of Thanksgiving and Veteran's Day is such an appropriate time to be thankful to all of the military who have fought and died over the century's to keep us free. God Bless America!

Arizona Al		19-Nov-2009 22:05
Miami River Rat: Amazing grace... what a topical and germane undertaking. A far cry from 1967 when I mustered out of the U.S. Army at the San Diego Naval Port and the Lieutenant from the Quartermaster Corps. advised us to remove our military uniforms and change into civilian clothes prior to leaving the yard and heading to the airport to catch a civilian flight back to Miami. Times have certainly changed for the better! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and proud to be an American in Phoenix, Arizona

Jeff		19-Nov-2009 21:45
Miami River Rat... What a touching story. Screw the blog, the Rogue's Gallery, celebrity pics, religious and metaphysical bantering... THIS is what life is all about... doing the right thing - especially for those who served in "the Great War".

Pokey		19-Nov-2009 15:42
Miami River Rat That is an awsom story, being retired military I have seen alot of military funerals, and yes, they are something to see. My son-in-law is presently on his third tour in Afgasinstan/Iraq. God bless all our military, its because of THEM that we have what we have today. Glad you dad is finally home. take care Pokey

whitebelt		19-Nov-2009 15:40
River Rat, that is one of those things that just chokes you up with emotion and brings a sense of community in an otherwise impersonal world. I remember after Andrew seeing all of those planes coming in one after another with supplies and help. Finally. And New Orleans after Katrina. No expense spared to save and help people. Chokes me up just thinking about it. I don't remember such back in the 60's and 70's. Maybe we are getting better overall.

Miami River Rat		19-Nov-2009 14:47
Howdy: I don't think I ever discussed this here, but my dad's airplane was shot down in New Guinea in WW2, somewhere over the remote Owen-Stanley mountain range. When that plane went down my mom was 19 and I was seven weeks old. Never let it be said that the U.S. Army lacks in persistence. After 67 years they recovered the remains of that aircraft and crew! Apparently the wreckage was submerged in a water-filled crater on a mountainside. They even recovered my father's wallet, which had pictures of my mom and grandparents in it. They say being under cold water all those years preserved things. Anyway, Sunday we were flown to Washington D.C.. Tuesday there was a funeral at Arlington Cemetery for the crewmen. Full military honors and all that.. There were seven men on the plane and every one had one or more family members there at the services. I'd never been to a military funeral at Arlington, but it was awesome. Horse-drawn caisson procession with riderless horses from chapel to grave site, an Air Force flyover because the deceased were Army Air Corps members and so forth. It would have been great if my Mom and Texas grandparents had been around to see this come to pass, but that just wasn't to be. We live in a great country. That the United States of America is willing to expend the resources and effort to do something like this for soldiers that passed away 67 years ago makes me proud to be an American. See ya.

whitebelt		19-Nov-2009 14:11
Come to think of it, the first pic would have been taken at the original location in Florida City. There are still remnants of the original location there. He just moved the sculpted pieces. But enough of this mysterious megalithic engineering right in the backyard of where we grew up. Or things like the Miami Circle. Or the neat boulder sized meteorite they had at Palmer Trinity school and the Indian village that used to exist there. Or thinking how nice it would be if they had not blown up the rapids at the mouth of the Miami River. Let's get back to the important things, like the celebrities we have met. :-)

Charles Knight		19-Nov-2009 05:33
I look in the trees above the photo and I see...Wait for it...Here it comes...I see dead people LOL!. Folks I wish I had the time that you do!

Miami River Rat		19-Nov-2009 04:32
I'm just back in from several days of travel. The Rogues Gallery is lookin' good! Roberta, best wishes for you and yours. May it turn out well. "YAWN". g'nite all.

Leighton		19-Nov-2009 04:22
Good grief.

whitebelt		19-Nov-2009 00:55
You are a hard woman to please. :-) The first pick was taken over 70 years ago when it was still under construction. The second was between 1940 and 1951, probably on the earlier side. The third was taken just a few years ago, well after Andrew. The fencing didn't appear until the late 80's or so. The site was originally 10 acres of pines. He cut a bunch of it and sold off a lot during the war, I am sure. Dade County pine was highly sought after for the war effort. The vegetation has changed a lot over the years. I really can't see that much of a lean in the shadows. There may be some distortion from the camera and/or enlarger lens, but to me they look like they are all headed in the right direction. The circular stone and the point is the direct light source and he is at an angle to it. It may have been a Brownie camera or other cheap camera with some self timing mechanism. It is setting up high. The "H" could be someone's initials. These photos have been floating around for over 50 years. The photos are Rorschach tests. Funny thing about that rough texture of coral and photos. You look and you will find all sorts of creatures and things in them. Serious. There have been sightings of little boys, aliens, monsters, and even hidden letters in that very photo by a lot of people. :-) I am thinking it may be a collision of light on water vapor. It is so pixelated I can't really tell what it is. Just doesn't look like a burn in to me.

charlis		18-Nov-2009 23:47
white.. pic problems... over the guy's shoulder is an "H". His outline is too "crisp" as compared to the other items in the pic. Shadows on the left "lean" to the right, while shadows on the right "lean' to the left. Background in the first pic of the moon sculp does not match the background in the 2nd pic... different types of trees. Tall trees are in the background in the first pic but shorter trees are in the 2nd pic... with a branch near the moon scuIp. In the 3rd pic posted there is a fence... it is not in the 1st pic. In the first pic the trees in the backgroung and the guy have "crisp" outlines but the rest of the pic's outlines are "faded".

charlis		18-Nov-2009 23:23
Don, my enlarged pic of Nike is great! But, then again, I have been doing graphics for most of my 60 years. I did a pic of my boss, a very vain person who dyes his hair... badly.... you can see the line! He is a few years older than me. I was able to give him gray hair in a pic for his 60th b-day a few years ago.

Charles Knight		18-Nov-2009 16:42
Arizona Al, you flatter us vocalists, no doubt. Roberta, my prayers gain in frequency. Do take care of Lewis and yourself, we've grown fond of hearing from you for sure.

whitebelt		18-Nov-2009 12:15
Charlis, I located a recent picture of that area. I was wrong, that window is a solid area. It is the obelisk. I haven't been there for almost 20 years so couldn't remember all the details. You can see features of the obelisk in the older picture as glare points. Yet it also appears you can see some of the trees behind through it. I will bow to your expertise if you can tell me how those effects were created. Don, can you tell me how to post links to pictures without the picture being embedded in the post?

Leighton		18-Nov-2009 06:59
OK, Don has posted my Rogue pics. (Thanks) Roberta, my thoughts are with you. How WEIRD the Internet is........different people, different times. But all good.

Jeff		18-Nov-2009 04:54
Roberta... Sorry to hear the diagnosis. My continued best wishes go to Lewis and you during these tough times. Don't worry about being a regular poster here... there's so much more that's important in your life than a blogspot. It will be here when you need it.

Roberta Perry Hughes		18-Nov-2009 04:41
Hello, dear friends.... It was a very emotional day for us. Dr. Taramina did some tests, & has concluded that Lewis has Lewy Body Disease, which is a form of dementia that mimics both Parkinson's Disease & Alzheimer's Disease. It is progressive, & like the others, there is no known cure. Lewis has been scheduled for both an EEG, & a CAT scan, with & without contrast, on November 30th, in Statesboro. I have to work on getting transportation to make these appointments, as one is to be done at the doctor's office, & the other at the hospital in Statesboro. We both remain more than a little confused, regarding the diagnosis, & are overwhelmed, by these scheduled tests, & trying to scramble to get transportation for same. Everything seems to be so far away, to complicate matters. Meanwhile, Lewis is to have cataract & pterygium surgeries, right eye, on Thursday morning, with follow-up the next day, in Swainsboro. What a week, huh, & right here on the verge of the Thanksgiving holiday. The timing is so inconvenient. Somehow, we will persevere, & get through all of this. We have weathered many a crises, over-the-years, together. It could be a lot worse, than it is. You'll forgive me, for not posting on a regular basis, I am sure. Even so, I will come on here, to read, as often as I can, & to visit the Rogue's Gallery, so I can visit all of you there, as well. Many thanks, for your continued well wishes, & for your prayers. Thanks, Don, for all you do for us. Speedy recovery for you, too. BTW, those Southwest High School graduation photos are of my 2 first cousins, Joe Perry; his sister, Mary Perry Johnson; & on the far right, my own sister, Audrey Perry Lane. They were all Class of 1960, which was SWHS's second graduating class. The first class graduated in 1959.

Fran		18-Nov-2009 04:14
Whitebelt, thank you for your kind words. Roberta, You and your family are not forgotten. Don, Awesome work!

Arizona Al		18-Nov-2009 03:43
Charles Knight: I learned and accepted a long time ago that any fool can learn to play the guitar but it takes true talent and skill to be a vocalist. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		18-Nov-2009 00:59
Charlis, where do the shadows not line up? I have seen other copies of that print that were cleaned up. No window. Dodged a bit. There are some manipulated photos out there. This one is interesting because Ed was a very meticulous person. He set that photo up for a purpose. He was a clever guy that liked to leave clues. That was a setting sun. That circular sombrero looking stone to his left on the ground is the center of the place. That photo was probably taken on a day when the sun set directly west. It moves during the year where it first appears and sets. I believe that bright spot on the left of the window, which is actually a glare, is the small obelisk he had on the outside of the east wall. Was kind of incongruous with the layout of the place. I also believe that is where a basin of water in the wall just under that glare window. There are several what he called "Latvian stars" about the place. 6 pointed stars, which BTW were used well before the use by Judaism. They have to do with energy dispersion or collection. There were at least two 6 pointed basins cut into the top of the walls, one just west of the Polaris observation point, and another on the east wall near the Saturn obelisk. There were more lower on the east wall. That point you see over his head is part of a large vertical one. The very top of the Saturn obelisk is also a six pointed star. So was the collection box outside. The place reeks of something similar to Freemasonry and the New Jerusalem, plus something else older. Leedskalnin means something to do with rocks in Latvian. The man was 5 foot and 100 pounds. Most of his tools weighed as much as he did. Have you ever worked on coral rock? A man his size, and his age, does not just put multi-ton blocks of rock he had to cut OUT of the ground just any old where. Believe me, most every one had a purpose. But that photo could have been faked, but I don't think so. Point out those misaligned shadows for me. Don't forget to allow for the focal length of the camera.

Don Boyd		18-Nov-2009 00:33
Charlis, you disappoint me because I thought you were interested in a high quality image of Nike. Adding pixels by interpolation will never yield the quality of a larger image at high resolution (300dpi) to begin with and that's what I have. :( Don

charlis		17-Nov-2009 23:48
white... I do have to admit that the castle was a unique creation.... beautiful.

charlis		17-Nov-2009 23:46
white.. the pic was obviously altered... in the "old way"... shadows do not line up. I used to have a dark room. Print out pics, cut out sections and add to another pic, take a pic of that... you could not tell the difference unless you looked really close. The computer age has changed a lot of things. A good example would be to look at a pic of a UFO sighting... use Corel or Adobe... enlarge the pic view... you can see the difference!

charlis		17-Nov-2009 23:34
Don...Nike pic... beat you to it... I copied the pic, made adjustments as to pixels, and printed it out on the plotter at work... will tack it to the wall near my bed this weekend!!!! As to Jeff... no thanks. He did turn out to be a good looking man... but I learned a lesson about being involved with "lower classmates". Took me 25 years.

whitebelt		17-Nov-2009 23:14
Charles, I was a very active participant on the old Coral Castle forums for a while. A lot of things about Ed came up on there. Turn the book upside down and face a mirror. It will say "Howe in Every Book" with a couple of letters flipped. But it will only do that laid out the way he did on the cover. I noticed that 20 odd years ago and even showed it to one of the guys in the gift shop and have posted it on the net. If you studied Ed Leedskalnin you would understand him doing it that way. Everyone is so tied up in his stupid little generator, hoping to gain insight into magic so they can get rich and famous, they miss the whole purpose of the place. Ancient technology, greatly enhanced, right there in Miami's backyard. It was a machine. You may have heard about the numbers on his door, "the secrets of the universe". I guessed it was his naturalization certificate number and issue date a long time ago, because it was close to my father's number. That has since been verified by some relatives of his. He didn't use magic or magnetism to build it. He built it to create them. He built it with sweat and brains. The tripods gave him the leverage he needed. You should see his hands in one of the last pictures. Looked like claws, they were so deformed from work. The place is worthy of some really serious scientific study. There is a lot more to the place than meets the eye. Did you see anything in the window of that photo? Some people see the face of a big man and others see a lion. Ed was a Leo, BTW. :-) Some don't see nothing. I see the face of a guy that looks like Lou Ferrigno. You can see the nose, mouth, and eyes just to the right of the bright spot on the left. The place is very geometric and astronomically aligned.

Charles Knight		17-Nov-2009 21:26
Whitebelt, I have a copy of the book that I picked up at a yard sale in Gainesville of all places. It's one of my prized "Floridana" possessions. Having visited The Castle on many occasions I thought I was somewhat knowledgeable on the subject...Guess not. Arizona Al, it sounds as though you a have a good eye/ear for vintage axes. Being a lowly vocalist I don't own any guitars at present. Aren't we an eclectic mob!

Pokey		17-Nov-2009 15:59
Don The pictures will be on the way, as soon as I can find some, most of the time I am the one taking the shots, so I don't have many with me in them, sometimes its better that way....... Hope the healing is coming along fine. take care Pokey

whitebelt		17-Nov-2009 15:36
"Rays: When I reduce the material from which comes out the alpha, beta and gamma rays, so small when it is magnified one hundred times and appearing the same size as an average salt crystal, then there is no more rays, but has flashes the same as when a connected wire end is tapped on the battery's terminal, but without the red sparks. Depending on the size sometimes, I have to wait five minutes before I can see a flash." That is from one of Ed Leedskalnin's writings. He was in his fifties when he built Coral Castle. He wrote that after building it. BTW, the present location was built within 4 years, actually less. 1100 tons of rock cut out of the bare ground, moved and erected. Some of the carvings came from the original location, but only a hundred tons or so. He was the size of a petite woman. Amazing pair of eyes to see something that small, eh? Plus, just how do you reduce material that small? Remember that huge billboard around the tracks on US1 a little ways north? Had 3 huge I beams. Andrew knocked that billboard SIDEWAYS, turning it into a trapezoid. Not over, but sideways. Coral Castle suffered no damage from Andrew other than vegetation. Didn't even blow the arch off the 30 ton stone on the NE side. Speaking of vegatation, back in the 80's there was a cedar tree growing just inside the south wall, dead on a line from a 4 inch steel rod in the ground just south of the quarry to the Polaris obelisk. That was the centerline of the place. This cedar grew like a candelabra or menorah after it got above the walls. The branches grew ONLY along the wall, east and west. No pruning. There may be an umbrella tree or two that does that now in other locations on it. Miami was more magic than you think.

whitebelt		17-Nov-2009 14:23
Well, Happy Birthday to you, Alan. You must have done something right to keep so young. You ever take the ride up to the vets memorial around Eagle's Nest? If you did you probably drove through where I live.

Arizona Al		17-Nov-2009 14:15
Whitebelt: Will turn 63 on the 20th of this month. Amazing what womanizing, drinking and indulging in illicit substances in one's youth can do to preserve youth in one's older age:):). To quote Doc Holliday "My hypocracy has no boundaries" Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and feeling extremely young at heart and mind (although not to the amusement of his wife) in Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona Al		17-Nov-2009 14:10
Charles Knight: Just can not shed my 1960's hippie and musician personna which serves me well in my old age as a biker. Actually have been riding since I was 14. Rode an Indian Chief to Palmetto High in my senior year 1964. That really endeared me to the preppie dominated senior class:):). Apparantly you were/are a musician. I still play a bit but mainly collect vintage guitars. 1965 Gibson SG Junior, 1967 Gibson Les Paul Black Beauty, and a 1959 Fender Blonde Telecaster and an early 1960s Fender Esquire to name a few..Old boys and their toys:) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		17-Nov-2009 12:30
Wow!! I just posted links to the pictures and the pictures showed up.

whitebelt		17-Nov-2009 12:20
One of the wonders in the world is Coral Castle. I used to drive by it all of the time and not give it a thought. Then I got into it in a serious way in 1982. It is not a monument to Agnes. The more you study it the more you see. Some profound stuff in that place. Ed Leedskalnin was a lot more complex man than you imagine. At the minimum a VERY high native intelligence with excellent powers of observation and reasoning. Here is a picture of the front cover of his "A Book In Every Home". Write out the title EXACTLY as it is presented, meaning the line breaks. Then look at it in a mirror held upside down. Try it with different line breaks. This picture is kind of what it is really about. You may want to enlarge it a bit. On the wall behind his head you will see a point. Just to the left of it is what looks like a window over his right shoulder. Look at that window for a while and see if you can see anything in it. That window is not a solid object. There is a basin of water below it on the wall and a small obelisk behind it. Notice the shadows of the sun.

whitebelt		17-Nov-2009 11:20
One of the lessons learned in life. :-) http://geezers.awehican.org/index.php?topic=6.0

whitebelt		17-Nov-2009 09:54
Alan, you sure don't look your age. I posted that before you on the motorcycle appeared. I thought the mug shot was a photo from the 70s. Fran, you are one beautiful and elegant looking woman.

Charles Knight		17-Nov-2009 05:48
Hello Nike, indeed we did, only some years apart. I actually played many Dade County schools in the seventies, you've got to love a school system where the auditoriums and stages are as good as Miami's, especially the older schools. Let's hear it for the home team! I was actually a bit apprehensive about the older photo with the long hair and then I saw Dr. Ogus' ... It's comforting to know that I'm not the only oddball on this site! Isn't it great to put the faces with the posts here.

Arizona Al		17-Nov-2009 05:26
Whitebelt: Guilty as charged. There is a picture of me in the Rogues Gallery from 2009. Still have a full head of hair that has been at least as long and sometimes longer since 1967. ALan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		17-Nov-2009 04:34
Well, good for you, Charlis, keep on panting. Don't forget, send me $4.95 via PayPal and I'll send you a super large image of Nike in his 1963 Army photo suitable for mounting on your bedroom ceiling or other nifty places. There's a great opportunity here for me to tell you how much a large version of Jeff would be but I think he's getting tired of me busting his chops so I won't do that now. Well I spent most of the day adding a good number of great photos to the Rogues Gallery athttp://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_rogues_gallery . So who are we still missing? Parks, Leighton, Jackie, Jo-Anne K (who has owed me two pics since 12/1/08, almost a year), Miami Girl, Ray, Pokey, Sofia and who else? If y'all prefer not to send in photos that's okay - it's your choice and of course you're welcome to keep on posting whether you submit photos or not. Our prayers to Roberta regarding her husband Lewis! Don

Nike		17-Nov-2009 02:38
Charles Knight..It looks like we both played a gig at Shenandoah Jr. High and made the Rouge's Gallery.

Guest		17-Nov-2009 02:35
...or Parks

Guest		17-Nov-2009 02:32
I still don't see Don, "then and now".

charlis		16-Nov-2009 23:26
Don... no, I haven't stopped panting. The funny thing is that the pic of Nike looks like a pic of my dad... in the 40's!

charlis		16-Nov-2009 23:24
Roberta... my love is focused on you. Keep in touch. I'll send you some funny emails to keep you laughing. As my uncle used to say, "a laugh a day makes the day go better as it makes the bad stuff disappear for a few minutes."

whitebelt		16-Nov-2009 22:24
Alan, just for curiosity, do you still have a full head of hair?

Jackie		16-Nov-2009 21:34
Roberta, we have missed you as well. And, of course our prayers and positive thoughts are with you as you go through this time of tests and uncertainty. Please keep us posted on the outcome.. I love the picture of you and Lewis.. Just as I had imagined. Jackie

Charles Knight		16-Nov-2009 18:32
Don, thanks for all of this...You ROCK! Roberta, prayers and positive thoughts for you and yours.

whitebelt		16-Nov-2009 17:50
The only picture I have left of my youth is a passport photo when I was 22 and in the Army. If I can figure out my digital camera I might take one of me now. I do have an older one from 5 years ago that makes Jeff hitchhiking look good in comparison, but did kind of catch my essence. Got better glasses since then. But first I have to get over feelings of inadequacy due to pictures of the pretty boys already posted. :-)

Fran		16-Nov-2009 17:30
Don, sending recent picture today. I have to scan the others may take more time. Dave, I'm sending Don the recent photo, not to worry about sharing it. :)

Jeff		16-Nov-2009 16:36
Roberta, of course my prayers and best wishes go with you. My late father had Parkinson's Disease, and you will find there will be great, if not overwhelming challenges ahead. Let's hope Lewis does not suffer from it, but in the event your suspicions are true, the National Parkinson Foundation (located in Ft. Lauderdale) is a great source of information and support. You will need to watch him at all times, as his balance will become unsteady. You (or a cartaker) will eventually have to assist him in most (if not all) of his mobility tasks. If this IS a case of Parkinson's, make sure that as the disease progresses, you watch very carefully how he chews his food. You'll eventually have to cut it up into small pieces for him. My dad was a month short of 90 - and he aspirated a piece of his sandwich and passed away because of that. Although he was wheelchair-bound from breaking his hip in a fall, and had some of the advancing dementia that comes with advancing Parkinson's, his heart was still strong. Yes, dementia will rear its ugly head as well. You may find yourself in arguments with Lewis over things he will swear are true or happened, but are only figments of his deteriorating imagination. It's sad and heartbreaking to see a loved one go "brick by brick". With some good fortune, you WON'T have that type of diagnosis to worry about. May you and yours enjoy a peaceful, happy, healthy and joyous holiday season. Welcome back to the blog, Roberta. Keep the faith and stay well yourself.

Roberta Perry Hughes		16-Nov-2009 08:43
Hello, all. I have really missed you...!! Sorry I have not posted, lately. I will have to submit some photos, later on, as my life is quite chaotic, right now. Been trying to get Lewis's cataract surgery squared away...has the left eye done; right eye will be done, this Thursday. Has had a gazillion follow-up visits, & gallons of eye drops. In the interim, he began to decline, physically, & I had to get him to our Internist, who has referred him to a Neurologist....this Tuesday....to rule out Parkinson's Disease. It has been....& continues to be....a struggle, & our neighbor has been taking us to all of these appointments, as I have not driven in about 16 years, now. Going to have to learn how to drive, all over again, I expect. I have been so busy that I have not even been on here, & have had a LOT of reading to do, to catch up, on all the comments. I still keep "late hours," & I guess it has been good training, for I am awake, to keep an ear out, for Lewis, in-the-night, should he need me. He has good days, & not-so-good days....like the rest of us, I am sure. It comes with the territory, so they say. It could be a lot worse, I'm sure. I am thrilled, that Hialeah Race Course is back up & running....!! So grateful, that such a historical place has been spared, for obliteration, & so very proud of that fact, & proud for the city of Hialeah, to have triumphed in this matter. After having read all of the comments, re: religion; the existence/non-existence of God, or a "higher power"; faith; miracles; one's destiny; Fate; etc.;.....well, I am more than a bit reticent, about asking for your prayers. But I am asking for you to think of us, & send positive thoughts our way, if you please....& I thank you, one & all, in advance, for your kindness. I hope this finds you all well, & enjoying life, & making lovely plans, for the coming holidays.

Jeff		16-Nov-2009 05:59
Oh, and Don... that "Aventura A-hole" comment is REALLY a stretch this time. I don't live in, nor prefer to drive through the traffic of Aventura. Thanks for the feeble attempt at comedy nonetheless...

Jeff		16-Nov-2009 05:58
Thank you, Don. Your kindness is only exceeded by your waistline.

Don Boyd		16-Nov-2009 05:46
Charlis, are you still panting over the photos of Nike and Miami River Rat? Fran, that's good. And we like old photos too. Jeff's recent photo has been added to the Rogues Gallery. The photos are arranged in alphabetical order by their username that we are familiar with. I had to deny Jeff's request to use his "Aventura A-hole" nickname so he could be first in the photo lineup. : ) Don

Fran		16-Nov-2009 03:21
I'll send a recent picture to Don in an e-mail.

Jeff		16-Nov-2009 03:13
I've sent the most recent picture I have scanned [from Jan. 27, 2008] to Don for posting to the Rogue's Gallery. The picture was taken on the tenth anniversary of my Mom's passing, while I was visiting with my former aunt (late uncle's ex) and her current husband when they were in town. After seeing Nike's then-and-now photos, I can't compete... but (despite any sarcastic opinions to the contrary) think I look reasonably good for 57...

Parks		16-Nov-2009 01:33
Hi Guys, I really like the rogue’s gallery pix. I'll try to find one of me to send. I'm not nearly as good looking as Nike and Rat, sorry girls. Miami Weather Report: Magnificent! For you pilots: CAVU. Susan and I went down to the Fruit and Spice Park in the Redlands yesterday and bought a calamondin and a kumquat tree. The Amish Bakery has opened for the season. Burr's Berry Farm is planted but the strawberries are not ready yet. We saw a lot of bananas being grown commercially and even some sugar cane. I bet the sugar cane is being grown for the Cuban markets which have machines to crush it and then sell the juice. I don’t think there is enough to make it worth while to ship it up to the sugar mills around the lake. I bet the bananas are for local markets also. We’ve always had bananas as a door yard fruit but I don’t think I’d ever seen them grown commercially down here. Maybe we’ll give Chiquita a run for their money.

Elvis		15-Nov-2009 22:43
Charlis, Thank ya, Darlin (Snarled lip) I love my Momma,

charlis		15-Nov-2009 19:14
nike and river rat.... pant, pant! ;-) As to Nike... now we know what Elvis would look like today. Still waiting for a current pic of Jeff.

charlis		15-Nov-2009 19:08
Don.. great job on the Rogues Gallery! Nice to see what new and old friends look like. Thanks.

Nike		15-Nov-2009 16:31
Miami River Rat, I think I saw your picture in the post office. It had numbers under it.

mike cox		15-Nov-2009 15:23
very sorry,meant to tipe 'posters', not POSERS. HEHE No,really !

mike cox		15-Nov-2009 15:21
Don Thanks for the gallery ! Had no idea the posers here were real people Too bleary eyed right now to dig up a pic,but will do so this evening. Dang I hate morning people,how do they do it !? lol

Nike		15-Nov-2009 14:54
Arizona Al, If you have a FEDEX Kinko's or any other local printer, they will scan it pretty cheap and save it to a CD, flash drive or whatever. I'd hate to see you lose you job over it. Although, you could retire to Miami.

Arizona Al		15-Nov-2009 14:25
Hello All: I do not currently have a scanner but I do have a photo of me in 1964 and one from 2009 that I shall submit next week when I get to the office and appropriate the use of a company scanner ( A terminable offense I am certain LOL), Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami River Rat		15-Nov-2009 12:57
Thanks for The Gallery! It's nice to be able to put a face with the names.

Nike		15-Nov-2009 12:06
Don, Thanks for a great job on the Rouge's Gallery. Now, where are the pictures of Don, Whitebelt, Parks, Mike Cox, Charles Knight, Arizona AL, Fran, Miami Girl and all the other Rouges? It can't they're shy is it?

Don Boyd		15-Nov-2009 05:19
Sorry for the delay but it is now up. It is the bottom right image on the main Memories page at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories and the direct link to it is at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_rogues_gallery If you sent me a photo and you don't see it please let me know. Roberta, for some reason I can't find the images you sent me a long time ago that I thought were on the site. I've been rushed and maybe I missed them but help me out if you can. Enjoy! Don

Nike		15-Nov-2009 02:36
Don, Thanks for the generous comments. Elvis is still in the building. I just emailed a photo of me at Shenandoah Jr High in 1958 at their annual amateur variety show, Shenandoah Shenanigans. I did Love Me Tender and Don't Be Cruel.

Don Boyd		15-Nov-2009 02:20
YOUR long awaited Rogue's Gallery will be up on the site by midnight (EST). I was going to work on it today but I had two of my Saturday breakfast buddies drop by since I haven't been to breakfast lately due to my broken leg and they stayed forever. Then late this afternoon I got the bright idea of going to the mall to wheelchair around and say hello to friends and check out the ladies. Since Miami River Rat was the last to submit his photos I did his first because his e-mail was on top, haha. The gallery is not visible to the public yet and will not be until I get all of the photos up. Nike (Charles) also submitted two photos and all I've got to say is the ladies will be impressed with his 1963 Army photo. It's a good thing Elvis was around back then or Charles would have had all the ladies. As standard practice to conserve server space, most photos in the gallery will be 435 pixels high or thereabouts unless the images were too small to make that large. Any ladies wishing to purchase super large versions of Charles' 1963 Army photo should send $4.95 to me via PayPal. :) Stay tuned. If you go to bed early you'll see the gallery and photos tomorrow morning. If you're a night owl like Jeff, Roberta and me they'll be up by midnight. Don

Charles Knight		14-Nov-2009 05:21
OK, now I feel a little stupid but that's ok, I've always had some aversion to instructions as well as asking for directions , anyway...Thanks photos coming soon.

Don Boyd		13-Nov-2009 21:50
Send them to the e-mail address listed above in bold white print where it says "our e-mail address is:" I'm still involved in another photo project and really backlogged in other photos but I'll try to work on the "Rogue's Gallery" tomorrow. Don

Charles Knight		13-Nov-2009 20:38
Send them where?

charlis		12-Nov-2009 23:43
gang... got email from Don. He is working on creating the "Rogue's Gallery". Please send him your pics from when you where in school or in S Florida from your early memories... and a current pic... no "photoshopping" is allowed. ;-)

whitebelt		12-Nov-2009 16:19
Al, I was stationed at Ft. Huachuca for a couple of years. Loved that area and Tucson. Drove through Phoenix several times, without dawdling. No soul there. An Albuquerque on steroids. Just a place for tumbleweeds to gather. I am trying to move to a place in SE CO. Nice little town called La Junta. Looks like it is in the middle of the plain, but get off the road and lots of pretty canyon lands. You can just see the Rockies from it. Very old and settled area, goes back at least 11,500 years. Nice people. A few coffee shops, and a brand new WalMart. What else does one need? Also a train stop for the Southwest Chief. Phoenix. Arising from the ashes. But it will return to it. Pray the water supply lasts there. It is all artificial and can disappear with one earthquake a long ways away. Even Miami is short of water. The Rockies are the headwaters west of the Mississippi. I can look out my window and see the Continental Divide in the distance. There is a place north of me in southern CO called the San Luis Valley. One of the larger watersheds in the world. Unfortunately it can get very cold during the winter, but the temperature is great in the summer with an average of 300 days of sunshine. It is called the Land of Cool Sunshine. Land is very cheap up there. So is the elevation, about 7500 feet. A place some might consider retiring to. Magnificent views. 43 years of heavy smoking is the reason I am looking for the lower ground in La Junta.

Arizona Al		12-Nov-2009 14:39
Whitebelt: I left Miami in 1969 to attend college in North Carolina. I lived in North Carolina from 1969-1995 at which point my employer transferred me to direct the corporations clinical operations in Arizona. Best career and personal move in my entire life:) I return to North Carolina 1 week each month (have done so since 1995) for involvment in the clinical operations in North Carolina. I actually live in North East Mesa in the Ussery Mountains (25 miles from Phoenix). Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in the Ussery Mountains to be exact:)

whitebelt		12-Nov-2009 13:42
Al, what possessed you to settle in Phoenix?

Arizona Al		12-Nov-2009 11:19
Charlis: Thanks..Now I am not confused anymore. Jeff: Actuallly MASTER Nefarious sounds better:) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in 91 degree (11/11/2009) Phoenix, Arizona

Charles Knight		12-Nov-2009 06:12
Hey Don, where would I send some photos that you might use?

Jeff		12-Nov-2009 01:07
Yes, THANK YOU to all who served, and all who are serving our country. Thanks to you, Don... for often we overlook the members of the Coast Guard in our appreciation.

Nike		11-Nov-2009 22:19
Miami Girl, Thank you for the mention. SSG Charles D. Carter, Veteran U.S. Army Cuban Missile Crisis 1962 - 1965

Miami Girl		11-Nov-2009 21:50
A perfect day to send a great big THANK YOU to all the military vet's out there.

charlis		11-Nov-2009 21:43
nike... sent my pics to Don today. Used pics of my sister and me in our junior years and a recent reunion. Thought Jeff would get a kick out of my sis' pics since they went to school together and he commented that she was cute. Father Time has taken his toll on us both.

Jeff		11-Nov-2009 19:01
That's MISTER Nefarious to you! {:cP

charlis		11-Nov-2009 17:47
Al... the relative thing was referring to the Charles Knight... sorry about that. I was referring to the small world part as knowing people on this board... Jeff (nefarious)went to my highschool and work at the same place I did after I left both... Charles' relatives live up here and I knew them years ago. Sorry for the confusion... but I do have some memory of the other Jeff from the academy.

Arizona Al		11-Nov-2009 13:30
Charlis: I may have interpreted you post in error. Did you mean my brother Jeff or the nefarious (just kidding) Jeff who posts regularly on this site? If you did not mean my brother, who are the other relatives of mine that you know? Alan Ogus, Ph.D. with an inquiring mind that wants to know in Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona Al		11-Nov-2009 13:21
Charlis: Wow..I did not realize that you knew my brother Jeff! The Ogus family left Miami in 1967 and relocated to Raleigh, North Carolina. Jeff, his wife, children and grandchildren continue to live in the Raleigh area. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Guest		11-Nov-2009 05:47
Charlis, true, hot, hot, hot. Wow, those were the days. :)

charlis		11-Nov-2009 00:16
Al... I agree... the world is small. I know some of your relatives, I knew Jeff and we both worked for the same guy, I know someone who was at MMA in 64, Robert Lovelace... we all seem to have some sort of connection... memories that connect. At work today, after a new thing where they want proof of citiizenship, I was talking to a "break friend"... I was born in France to American parents... I have 3 birth certificates! Seems his wife was also born in France at the same time and she also works for the county... We have to bring all our paper work, including our "Proof of Citizenship" when we had to give up our French citizenship in order to vote in the US!

charlis		11-Nov-2009 00:01
niki... I'll do mine tomorrow... I have one pic from back then with the Laura Petrie hairdo, and my grad pic has the page boy... have to work on a current one. No, no PhotoShop'ing... I am a photographer so I do not have many pics of me in them.

charlis		10-Nov-2009 23:51
Guest... the guys at Eison in 66 and 67 weren't bad either!

charlis		10-Nov-2009 23:50
Back to the religious thing for a moment... and old miami memories... in a funny light. I have, over my long years on this planet, found out that many people use their religion as an exuse. I have a co-worker who was always telling me to read the bible (I have... in 3 languages... Old and New Testement!) Yet this same man cheated on his wife of 30 years... and cheated on the women he was seeing! I got revenge... he got divorced and married one of the women with a teenage boy... nothing but trouble and the man, who was set to retire last year, has to keep working! But, this get funnier... he became a deacon at his church! Miami has always been a mixed culture area. Obviously, Beach Hi was mostly Jewish. They got the Christian holidays off, as well as the Jewish ones but the Christians got in trouble for not showing up at school on the Jewish holidays... even if they had an excuse. My best friend and I took off for Ash Wednesday, in protest... and got in trouble... not a "condoned" school holiday. The principle at the time, Mr. Moore, asked if we had actually got to church to be blessed. We said that we had not... and that we knew for a fact that a lot of the kids and teachers did not go to Temple for the Passover days... they did not get in trouble but we did?!?!? They showed up in class the next day with sunburns! Okay... let's get back to the fun purpose of this board... memories. The above is a S FL memory ;-)

Nike		10-Nov-2009 23:29
Charlis, I have sent mine (1963 / 2008) to Don, who's next? No pressure, Don.

charlis		10-Nov-2009 22:38
nike.. I love your idea about the Rogue's Gallery! We have to give Don a "then" and "now" photo... and no PhotoShop'ing the "now" photos!

Miami River Rat		10-Nov-2009 20:33
Ok, I give up. Whatever???

Miami River Rat		10-Nov-2009 20:19
Note to self Do not compose in MS Word and paste to this site. If you do it will come out looking like ‘dis here mess o’ “mess” ‘dat I’m fixin’ to “paste” rat’ on ‘dis here ol’ page it’s ownnself. So ‘dere! .

whitebelt		10-Nov-2009 17:21
Stewardess's were goddesses, Don. Love those outfits from the 60's and 70's. Had a flight back from Turkey in the early 70's on a very crowded and cramped Pan Am 707. I had an aisle seat. Every time the stew passed by her beautiful butt would brush my shoulder the first couple of times. My face after that, accidentally, of course. Helped get through a nine hour flight. :-)

Don Boyd		10-Nov-2009 16:09
New photos added: 24 images of airline stewardesses from the 1960's and 70's (Do You Remember Gallery / Stewardesses sub-gallery) http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_doyouremember_stewardesses Don

Arizona Al		10-Nov-2009 11:33
Charlis: I had no idea you knew Jerry Leshnick. I met him when we were cadets at Miami Military Academy in 1960-1961. He only attended 1 year but we remained friends through high school (I went to Palmetto 1962-1964 and he went to Beach High 1961-1964). We got into a lot of mischief on Miami Beach during those years. Later in life he became an accountant and relocated to Las Vegas with his wife Carolyn. I lost track of him until recently when I was contacted by one of his cousins who informed me of his passing. The world is not small it is flat! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami River Rat		10-Nov-2009 05:43
You want “Old Miami”? Here’s ya’ one: Am I the only one here that ever went to the Bard Theater on NW 79th street to see the live burlesque shows? I think you were supposed to be 21 to get in, but they let me and my friends in at ages 15 and 16 and never asked for ID. I guess there were a lot of things that the police “let slide” on 79th street. The Bard wasn’t exactly my cup of tea but the featured girl there, Rusty Russell, was very pretty. As a sort of payback, when I was about 21 I went to New Orleans for the first time. Me and an Air Force buddy went into a strip-joint in the French Quarter called The 500 Club. Who should come out struttin’ wearin’ nothin’ but a button and a bow but my ninth grade girlfriend from Kinloch Jr. High! I yelled and waved at her and on her break she came over and sat with us. Her boyfriend, a bouncer at a nearby place joined us for a little while. They invited us to hang out with them after hours. My buddy got scared and left, but I met up with them after midnight when they were through working. They fixed me up with a red-headed torch singer from a piano bar up the street. The four of us went out and they showed me a side of New Orleans that most tourists don’t see. That night would be an entire story by itself. Nothing even slowed down until bright daylight. Years later when the song “Angel is a Centerfold” came out I thought about seeing Marilynne on that stage in New Orleans and I knew exactly how that singer must have felt. See Ya!

Nike		10-Nov-2009 05:01
Maybe Don will add a Miami Rouges Gallery (not to be confused with the gallery for individuals) just for photos of the Miami whackos that chit-chat on this site.

Jeff		10-Nov-2009 04:55
Whitebelt, I guess I'm guilty of having an overly-consistent expression in those photos. I guess it's because you have that one moment to get a snapshot with someone and you try to look your best - which in my case is a stretch by any means of the imagination! LOL! The only good thing I can say on my behalf is that I'm about 22 pounds lighter than I was in the rock and roll photos... but I can stand to lose another 20 or 30 pounds.

Female Guest		10-Nov-2009 04:42
Did any of the gals check out the guys from Edison, classes 64 and 65? They were really cute! I know the guys from Gables were hot but those Edison guys rocked.

Charles Knight		10-Nov-2009 02:45
No Jeff, you're right...I'll go to church for a sermon...not online

whitebelt		10-Nov-2009 02:05
Jeff, since you brought up the photos of you, there is something I wondered about since viewing them. Were you wearing a mask during all those grip and grins, or did Don Photoshop those, too? You have a rather consistent look to your face in all of those photos.

whitebelt		10-Nov-2009 01:47
Miami is a large place. Would be nice to hear from people who grew up in some of the older neighborhoods.

whitebelt		10-Nov-2009 01:33
When I was a senior in high school at Jackson some of us skipped school one day and went to the Edison Color day. Wow!! They had some good and classy looking girls there. Compared to Jackson, anyhow. Those rich Bay Point girls. Got caught and suspended for 3 days. Back in the 90's I went past a high school car, wash on US1 just below the Palmetto Expressway around SW 104 St. Palmetto High I think it was. There were a couple of high school girls in string bikinis in the median of US1 pulling in the customers. Weren't all that pretty, but attracted attention. Times sure changed.

Jeff		10-Nov-2009 00:45
And that should have been "methinks"... but no matter how I may mistype my intented comments, I mean no ill will... I just think were going off into some LONG and heavilty-traveled journeys that get far away from the nostalgia of this site.

Jeff		10-Nov-2009 00:42
OK... I'm gonna be the guy who gets chastised, castigated, castrated, insulted and belittled... but this WHOLE religion/non-religion thing is getting TOO heavy for my tastes... Those who believe will remain belivers... those who question will remain skeptics and/or agnostics, those who don't believe will remain aethists... God willing! It's all good, reasonable and solid discussion... but this take things more off base than the time I asked people for some vintage items. Methings I'd almost be willing to return to line after line about South Miami musings (which I can also NOT relate to), than this lofty, cerebral discussion. You are all intelligent contributors beyond any doubt... but what happened to the Old Miami Memories? Are we FINALLY running out of topics? If so, go look at the bastardized photo Don did of me as a hitchhiker (using a 1953 image) and think of something witty (but not TOO cutting to say)...

whitebelt		10-Nov-2009 00:29
Charlis, it ain't that simple. Being a master of your fate doesn't mean you have total control of your life or destiny. It just means you are responsible for the decisions you make. But things can come out of the blue and ruin your day. A supreme power is not obligated to look out for you all of the time, and probably doesn't. Evolution or intelligent design, you can be sitting in your lawn chair and get hit by a bolt of blue sky lightning that came out of a storm 20 miles away. Or get hit in the head by a pea sized meteorite from gazillions of miles away.

charlis		09-Nov-2009 23:48
Al and White... what do you call a peron that has no belief at all? I believe that things just happen... If something happens to me, good or bad, it is my doing. An agnostic does not believe in a god, an athiest does not believe in a particular religinon/belief... We are the masters of our own fate...

charlis		09-Nov-2009 23:42
Celebs and high schools... except fo LA, Miami Beach ranks up there with Brooklyn schools for celebs... Beach lays claims to the guy who did the screen play for "From Here to Eternity", Kim Hunter, Barbara WaWa, Jeanne Wolfe, the director of the "Rush Hour" movies, and a lot of others.

charlis		09-Nov-2009 23:36
Al... Jerry... I had such a crush on him! Sorry to hear about his passing.

charlis		09-Nov-2009 23:32
jeff... Nancy Culp!?!?! I found out that Barbara WaWa and Kim Hunter graduated from Beach. Roy Firestone was one of your "under classmen"... friend of Gloria's, that I knew, comfirmed that Gloria did attend Beach in the early 60's... Everyone, you have to check out a movie called "Class Act", put out a few years ago and starring Andy Garcia and Mickey Rourke... all about Jay Jensen. Apparently Jay was busy with more that teaching... he appeared in a lot of movies while teaching at Beach.

charlis		09-Nov-2009 23:24
jeff.. Wayne was living in Broward or W Palm and working for the sanitation department when I met him....

whitebelt		09-Nov-2009 18:04
Al, I think most of us are agnostics to a degree insofar as believing the deity portrayed today. There is a funny thing about humans. We are all thrust into a seeming maelstrom of energies and are forced to react to it. The majority take solace in the words spoken by others instead of in their own heads. Voices without instead of within. Guess you can say they are looking for guiding lights to keep some bearing. Which just adds to their confusion. The answer is within, though. I posted some of my own confusion on my geezers site listed in my profile. Believe or not, there is an explanation of how thoughts are transferred within them. Actual real "physical" basis. "Science" simplified. Very simplified. Forget terms such as atoms, Higg's bosons, four fundamental forces. There is only one fundamental force and that is motion. Gravity is just the reaction of a medium to the disturbance of its static state. If you understand what I tried to explain you will understand force of personalities. The workings of "nature" is simple, it is the turning it into a technology that gets difficult. Something existed before it was set into motion creating us. Our science tends to work from the perspective of nothingness springing into somethingness, not as us being a branch of something else. A baby in a womb experiences the the same injection into "reality" and growth as our "universe" does. The big issue is are we a bubble blown with one breath, or a growing bubble with a continuous breath.

Arizona Al		09-Nov-2009 09:38
To the Beach High Alumni: I recently learned that a close friend from my adolescent years Jerome "Jerry" Leshnick, Beach High Class of 1964 passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada where he was living at the time. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona Al		09-Nov-2009 09:32
Whitebelt: As an agnostic I find the "jury to be out" regarding the exisistance or non-existance of a Supreme Being or Entity refered to as God. However, as a scientist I conclude that there must be a higher form and order of intelligence governing the universe. I do agree that the universe is ordered but the order at times may appear to be random which at face value sounds like a contradiction in terms yet validates your contention the higher order of intelligence fashioning" something unpredictable to share its existance with" such as mankind:) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and thouroughly enjoying the cerebral interactions with my unknown but kindered spirit named Whitebelt

Don Boyd		09-Nov-2009 03:45
New photos added today: http://www.pbase.com/image/119178188 - contributed by Alvin Lederer - 1960's image of Osteopathic General Hospital in North MiamiBeach (60's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_hialeah_dupuis64 - contributed by Keith Nelson - 1964 - Dr. John G. DuPuis Elementary School yearbook (partially done) (Hialeah gallery) Don

Jeff		09-Nov-2009 02:11
Yeah... I did forget Wayne Cochran... but TECHNICALLY, he wasn't a Floridian at the time he was playing the Barn. He's from Georgia. He only became a Florida rsident later on... However, if you want to stretch a point and go past Miami... singer-songwriter-producer Luther Dixon is from upstate Florida, so was Ray Charles... Johnny Tillotson was also a Floridian, as was blues singer Billy "The Kid" Emerson (if I'm right, I believe he was from Tarpon Springs)... and so was Tom Petty, with his first band Mudcrutch. Other Florida-based celebrities include Woody Woodbury (who took over for Johnny Carson in 1962 on "Who Do You Trust", Announcer Bob Clayton (who, along with Don Barber did the "Don and Bob Show" on WCKT-Channel 7) - and became the announcer for "Concentration"... Nancy Culp (most famous for playing "Miss Jane" on "The Beverly Hillbillies") graduated from Beach High in 1937.

charlis		08-Nov-2009 19:59
mike... the skeet range... my uncle was into skeet... made and won the nationals a lot of times... taught me how to shoot, make my own ammo ( I was a child at the time...) He came to Miami to visit a few time and we went to the range you talk about... this was in the mid 60's. He died in 68. I'll never forget the time he took me to a match and handed me a gun at the children's range... I shot the gun and fell on my A... His message... "Always load your own ammo and gun." Met Roy Rogers at one event in OH... have the pics from the late 50's. All I have left from my uncle is his 38... over 60 years old... and which I am going to take to the local range next weekend.

charlis		08-Nov-2009 19:52
jeff... speaking of music... don't forget Wayne Cochran!

charlis		08-Nov-2009 19:48
jeff... Gloria Loring... nee Goff. I remember hearing that she graduated from Beach but I can find no record of that. Seems that the time we heard that she was in Miami Beach, at Beach, she was in NYC, according to her BIO. We did have a lot of famous people go to Beach... Mickey O'Rourke, BaBa Walters, Roy Firestine, During my research I kept getting led to Jay Jensen and "Class Act", a movie done about Jay's history and his "Teacher to the Stars"... Jay was a great guy. I worked on a lot of his productions as Beach, while a student and afterwards.

whitebelt		08-Nov-2009 16:02
Al, I never read Thoreau or any of his acolytes, but it does give me a warm fuzzy feeling they would approve, even though I do not follow any "schools" of thought. The universe is not disordered. It follows rules. There is a belief amongst mankind that it is a big nothing. It isn't. The most basic logic says you don't get something from nothing. Space is a medium and we, as physical beings, are just weavings of such. Know the rules of the universe and you can leverage your way through it. We are self centered, as individual facets of a larger organism, and as the organism itself. We have trouble seeing past ourselves. Has to do with maintaining the integrity of the weavings. Al, you are a psychologist. Let's take this concept of an eternal, omniscient, omnipotent GOD. Such an entity would know everything, could change everything at will, would know what will happen. Such an entity would also be stark raving mad from boredom. There is no beginning, there is no ending, everything is repetitive. So it would have to dream to escape its reality. Or fashion something unpredictable to share its existence with.

mike cox		08-Nov-2009 15:58
Trail Glades ranges brings memories from WAY back. My dad was a Beach cop in the early50's and he would take fellow officers out there to shoot Thompson and Reising machine guns into the canal..AT EMPTY OIL CANS. ! Imagine doing that today with oil 'cans'...er,jugs. I got to go along,and watch,but was too young to shoot them,dangit.

Arizona Al		08-Nov-2009 14:54
Whitebelt: Your sage advice to me spoken like a true transcendentalist. Thoreau and his acolytes would glow with pride and approval..Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Who a very long time ago turned inner directed (Reisman, 1962) in an endeavor to impose order on a chaotic and disordered universe.

whitebelt		08-Nov-2009 13:41
Parks, you married well. I used to have a tree I would grab a calamondin or two from on the way to work. I love that taste. I didn't shoot much trap there. Did shoot some skeet once in a while. Maybe you remember a guy named Victor that carried an oxygen bottle around on the skeet range. Would lean against the skeet house, hobble to position, and then blow away the bird from the hip. He was good. I spent most of my time playing on the rifle and pistol range. A group of us would gather every Saturday and test out our handloads and latest toys. That was a nice range. Would have been nicer if they had a 600 yard range. Jeff, evidently no one ever collected Falcons. Those old Falcons were popular among the early Cubans because they were cheap. Should rank along with the Freedom Tower for Cuban icons.

Parks		08-Nov-2009 04:32
Hi Whitebelt, I'm sure Don Johnson was drinking a nice refreshing Pepsi and that was what gave him all that energy. The sky, the water, Trail Glades Range and calomondins, I love them too! I spent a lot of time on the Trap range out at Trail Glades. My wife makes the best pie from calomondins. It's like Key Lime Pie but with calomondin juice instead of lime. She also uses chocolate wafers to make the crust. Thanksgiving is coming, time for calomondin / cranberry sauce!

Jeff		08-Nov-2009 04:11
Whitebelt... Like most other automotive lines, few units remain of any given brand. Most have been wrecked, recycled, scrapped, parted out for replacement pieces or exported to foreign countries... Whether it's a Dodge Dart, a Corsair, an AMC Gremlin or a Packard, Studebaker, Tucker, Edsel, Deusenberg or Pierce-Arrow... each had their time in America and (save the few examples preserved by collectors) are now either recycled into other things or have rusted away as crushed heaps inside metal junk yards...

whitebelt		08-Nov-2009 03:27
Thanks, Don. I knew it was something about tails. Was just weird that place winding up with that corporate name and they never heard of the airline.

whitebelt		08-Nov-2009 03:21
Whatever happened to all the Ford Falcons? The little English Fords? Dodge Darts? Chevy Corvairs? Are they all recycled steel? I saw a Ford Falcon from the train in Nevada several years ago. First I had seen in ages.

Don Boyd		08-Nov-2009 03:14
Leighton, the Falls shopping facility is still nice with nice stores and a large Bloomingdales on the east end and a Macy's on the west end. I was there in July and it was a hot humid day so we didn't stay long walking around after an early dinner. Whitebelt, the slogan "We really move our tails for you" belonged to Continental Airlines, not Northeast. When airlines were regulated by the CAB Northeast was one of three airlines (the others were National and Eastern) with nonstop service to Miami from New York and Boston. Delta bought Northeast (famous for their "Yellowbird" service) in 1972 and merged the aircraft and employees into Delta. I have an image of a Northeast 727 at MIA in the Yellowbird paint scheme at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/92858605 Don

Jeff		08-Nov-2009 03:01
Speaking of music, this is worth repeating: Aside from the "Miami Sound" of TK Records, Miami has had its share of artists who made the national charts. They weren't all monster records, but respectable recordings just the same... "It's Almost Tomorrow" - Dream Weavers "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" - Heroes of Cranberry Farm (formerly the Squiremen) "Stop and Get A Ticket" - Clefs of Lavender Hill "Stone Cowboy" - Fantasy "Love (Can Make You Happy)" - Mercy "Every Day I Have to Cry Some" - Steve Alaimo "Martian Hop" - Ran-Dells Song stylist Gloria Loring is also from the Miami area.

Don Boyd		08-Nov-2009 02:57
New photos added today: http://www.pbase.com/image/119138083 - 1970's - our beloved miniature train at the Crandon Park Zoo (attractions gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/119152139 - 1970's - Goodyear blimp and downtown Miami (Aviation gallery and Downtown gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/119153547 - 1960's - Castaways Hotel, Sunny Isles (hotels gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/119154197 - Stewardesses - Do You Remember? gallery Don

Jeff		08-Nov-2009 02:55
Whitebelt, Criteria may have looked shabby, but what was cranked out by Mack Emerman, Ron and Howard Albert, Steve Kimball, [the late] Steve Gursky, Alby Galuten, and Karl Richardson (among others] was legendary. The studio was considered "Atlantic South", for the Atlantic Records label group and their chief engineer (the late Tom Dowd) LOVED the sound that emanated from those old walls. For example, these LP's were recorded at Criteria: "CSN" - Crosby, Stills and Nash "Young, Gifted and Black" - Aretha Franklin "Layla" - Derek and the Dominos "461 Ocean Boulevard" - Eric Clapton "Monkey Grip Glue" - Bill Wyman "Firefall" - Firefall "Betty Wright Live" - Betty Wright "Hotel California" - Eagles (portions) "Saturday Night Fever" (most portions) These singles are a few more examples: "I Got You, I Feel Good" - James Brown "Funk 49" - James Gang "Rainy Night in Georgia" - Brook Benton "Spanish Harlem" - Aretha Franklin "Layla" - Derek and the Dominos "Bell Bottom Blues" - Derek and the Dominos ...and that's just the tip of the iceberg. Ron and Howard Albert left Criteria after Mack Emerman lost the studios because of mounting debts and formed Audio Vision Studios with Steve Alaimo. Steve Kimball is in California and Karl Richardson is associated with Ron and Howard.

whitebelt		08-Nov-2009 01:08
Don, wasn't Northeast Airlines the one with the slogan " We really move our tails for you"? Funny thing, back in the 90's I had a customer not far from the airport with that name. They imported or exported snacks and stuff like that to South America. I asked them about the name. They never heard of the airline. But then I also had customers, one in Hialeah up the avenue from Flamingo Plaza, that made clothes, with all the doors locked and maybe one or two people that spoke English, or sold precious metals over the phone, or in some sort of import/export business with rather limited inventory. Lots of funny businesses in Miami. One of my customers was Ramon Milian Rodriguez. He had a house turned into an office in Coconut grove. I remember a bunch of guys waiting around for a phone call from the man one time, all rather nervously. They made every effort to answer calls from Colombia without fail. They didn't want their boss mad at them. They all looked like respectable businessmen. This was before they all became so famous. Another customer was wanted by Ecuador for fraud. He was a cool guy, though. Limelite Studios was one of my customers for several years. Frank Tolin really impressed me favorably. He built it right by the airport, sound proofed it and made other changes and last I heard the place was doing well. He built it from scratch and with cash. Remember seeing him, a 70 year old man, mixing concrete in a wheelbarrow one time. This was a couple of blocks north of 36 st and 72 ave. Don Johnson did his Pepsi commercial there. From what I was told I interrupted his preparations for shooting it. Something about inhaling something. They wanted something done in the dressing room. He was in there with his manager and a gaggle of hanger ons lurking outside. I was in no mood to hang around waiting so I told them they had 3 minutes to let me in to do what I had to do. After 2 he came bounding out full of energy. They had some really cool state of the art production equipment there. At the time I think it was the best outside of Hollywood. I was surprised at how old and run down Criterai Studios looked for what they turned out. Miami was a dynamic and bustling place. I had a job that took me all over it and beyond. Had been in local, state, and federal offices, dens of sin, minions of the cartels, construction companies, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, printers, churches, synagogues, private schools, hundreds of lawyers, doctors, dentists, and accountants. BTW, dentists are the cheapest SOB's to deal with. Real estate and insurance companies, stock brokers, you name it. I had an interesting life in Miami. Got to see and hear lots of stuff. An lot of it forgotten forever after walking out the door. A very dynamic city. I have lots of memories of Miami from a lot of different angles. But the sky, the water, Trail Glades Ranges, and calamondins are the only thing I miss about it. I love calamondins. Trail Glades was a place to meet some interesting people. One observation I made over those years is that out of at least a thousand offices I had been in, men who worked in an office who had pictures on their desk would have one of the wife and kids. Maybe 3 or 4 out of 9 women would have pictures of their husbands with their kids.

Leighton		07-Nov-2009 23:06
Is The Falls still worth going to? It had just "hit" when I returned to Miami as a UM student in the early 80s - back when Banana Republic was ACTUALLY a jungle-themed store. Also, do people still take boat tours of Christmas lights, in the canals of Fort Lauderdale?? (I guess that's where it was - I remember it from the late 60s/early 70s.)

Leighton		07-Nov-2009 22:44
Um......................................well, those memories don't "jog" my memories, and I'm not even a "geezer". A friend just referred to blogging as mental masturbation, and I must agree, in some cases.

Jeff		07-Nov-2009 22:37
Charlis... Yes, I remember him... he actually lived a few blocks from me on Miami Beach, played drums, and caused me to get called to the office a couple of times before they realized "WHOOPS! Wrong Jeff Levine!"

charlis		07-Nov-2009 20:59
jeff...yearbook is 70.... as I said, the pic is definately not you...some other Jeff Levine, a soph....

whitebelt		07-Nov-2009 18:31
I just set up a discussion board to take the load of this off the wall stuff from Don's board. For now you can just pick a user name and log on and start posting, no email confirmations required, but an email will be sent to you automatically confirming you registered. Email addresses are hidden from the public. You can block it from view of other members in your profile. There is a private messaging feature. It can be considerably more free form. You can create topics, respond, upload pictures and other things if registered. I will enhance it even more if people want to give it a try. http://geezers.awehican.org

whitebelt		07-Nov-2009 14:12
Alan, in one's quest for understanding, one can easily get trapped into following the memes of others, who are usually just as wrong as anyone else. Doing such is laziness, letting them do the heavy lifting of thinking. All one has to do then is recite and one is considered to be a learned individual, thus elevating one's status in the pack. In fact one is just being led down a side path from the road of truth. Grab an umbrella, find a nice rock to sit on, and just observe nature and let those gears click in the mind. You find nothing but mistaken notions in libraries, so they should not be relied on as truths, just as sources to fill in some gaps. Any truths in them will fit the overall pattern observation indicates. But you know that. :-)

Arizona Al		07-Nov-2009 13:29
Gosharootie the infield chatter has certainly taken on an existential and transcendental tone and flavor. I am on the way to the library ( I know .. I am so 1970s) to bone up on Hesse, Kafka, and Thoreau. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		07-Nov-2009 03:13
New photos added: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/119121148 - 1974 - Direct Oil gas station (Hialeah gallery) http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/119121151 - 1974 - Direct Oil gas station (Hialeah gallery) Don

whitebelt		07-Nov-2009 01:59
Miami was not Mayberry. But you could sure learn and experience a lot of things there you wouldn't in other places. Tremendous amount of energy and action going on there.

whitebelt		07-Nov-2009 01:55
Leighton, sunrises and sunsets. Low clouds. Skyquakes from thunderstorms. Bugs. Sweating like pig. Poinciana trees in bloom. Bugs. Sweating like a pig. Sweet smells carrying on the humid air. Bugs. Sweating like a pig. The smell of salt in the air. Bugs. Sweating like a pig. The smell of gasoline and hot asphalt. Bugs and sweating like a pig. Getting gritty from the abundant sand mixing with the sweating like a pig. Green caterpillars stinging the hell out of you. Big black/blue scorpions and spiders crawling over you while you are sleeping, worse yet when you weren't asleeep yet. More bugs. Sweating like a pig while trying to sleep. Billboards, signs, and someone always trying to sell something. Cute little tree frogs. Grass snakes. Land crabs in the yard. Bufos toads in the yard. Dipnetting for shrimp on the Rickenbacker. Finding a shady spot at the beach. Bugs. Sweating like a pig. Riding un-air conditioned buses. People smoking on the buses, some chewing gum at the same time and popping it. Lots and lots and lots of asphalt and concrete. Watching out for cops that would ticket you for anything. Bugs. Sweating like a pig. Slimy, oily politicians and salesmen. Locking your doors starting in the late 50's. Not stepping out the door without your gun in the 90's. Keeping alert whenever outside. Bugs. Sweating like a pig. Miami was a lot of fun.

Fran		07-Nov-2009 01:31
Whitebelt, What ever, deep very deep. Charlis, insightful I'm getting a cat. As for your boss, she is doing what bosses do. She puts the screw in the work of the day.:)

Leighton		07-Nov-2009 01:25
Good grief, I guess I've been away for a long time. Yikes. Quick, somebody, think of something Miami-ish that hasn't been rehashed many times.......I'm trying.

whitebelt		06-Nov-2009 23:50
Fran, I begrudge no one what they experience here. I can dance when it is appropriate. When you are dancing you are seeing only from yourself. I am more interested as to what is going on in the parking lot. I am curious as to what makes things tick, but very cautious about taking it apart. There are worse places than here to be trapped in. I am not one to create, but to maintain. Can't do that unless you have an understanding of the whole. Bet everyone is scratching their heads. Not crazy, just appear that way. It's a perspective thingy. :-)

Don Boyd		06-Nov-2009 23:49
New photos added today: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_individuals_jefflevine - the Jeff Levine Rock 'n Roll Gallery (Individuals & Small Groups gallery) Don

Jeff		06-Nov-2009 23:28
Charlis... I'm not sure what yearbook you have. I was in the 1967-1968 book, which was for my 10th grade year. It was my only yearbook picture. 1968-89 and 1969-1970 probably didn't list me or might have had "no photo available". Thanks for the good wishes on the font work. Corel X3 (13) just arrived today. I think they renamed it "X3" because of superstitious folks...

charlis		06-Nov-2009 23:07
Fran and White Belt... the problem lies in how YOU interpret things and the way that others disagree with you. I get that every so often from my supervisor... the virgin birth of Jesus is a good example... Jewish tradition uses the bloody sheets on the marriage night... if no blood... the marriage is "annulled"! So, how could Mary be a virgin when Jesus was conceived? (That question got me kicked out of Catachism School when I was 9!)

charlis		06-Nov-2009 22:56
jeff.... love the comment about being alone! In my later years with Ed, I had to listen to his problems but he would not listen to mine... caused by his problems. I am very happy now... with only the cat to tell my problems too... and she walks out of the room!

charlis		06-Nov-2009 22:49
don... suggestion for having fun with altering pics... I use Corel Photo/Paint but your program should have something similar... outline the area you want to add to another pic, paste it into the new image and click on "feather" or what ever your program uses... this feature softens the edges, making them blend in better.

charlis		06-Nov-2009 22:43
Jeff, first off... congrats... hope it goes well with the designs. This gets funny, re: your pic.... I got out my sister's yearbook... the Jeff Levine there was a soph, but pages connected to him were for a Jack Levine... a junior on the golf team... cute, too. Oddd that you are not even in any listing of classmates, even with no pic... a lot of other errors in the yearbook... obviously Evans did not do the yearbook that year. (Must have sent the 68 one to my daughter to give to Ed...) The soph's pic is really geeky... makes you look great! ;-) Page boy hair cut!

Fran		06-Nov-2009 22:09
I will give you this. We are kindred spirits of long ago. I don't have to explain myself to you. You understand what I am saying without questioning purpose. Embrace the beauty of nature, wallow in knowing that you were put there to appreciate the gentle earth. Smile...

Fran		06-Nov-2009 21:56
Whitebelt, it is and shall be. Now what are you going to do with your gift? Remember that you are part of that crazy kind of group.:) If you have separated yourself from that group, then so be it? I have found that many are part of the group and that you are not alone. In life you will find those who have more than you and those who have less. Be kind with your thinking, no one is perfect.:) Dance as if no one is looking, keep those who are dear to you in your heart. Remember, Miami is only a plane ticket away.

whitebelt		06-Nov-2009 21:35
Fran, here are a couple of interesting creation stories you might enjoy perusing. They aren't mainstream. The Kolbrin you can only read on line. You can't copy and paste the text. http://www.thekolbrin.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=45 This one is strange by today's standards, but kind of explains my earlier comment about creating things you don't anticipate. http://www.aino.freeservers.com/whats_new.html According to current doctrine, man was of one mind once upon a time. He almost reached heaven. The Tower of Babel story. Something scrambled his brain, though.

whitebelt		06-Nov-2009 20:12
Fran, you seem to be a very perceptive person. Using knowledge can be as dangerous as not using it. You really, really need the proper perspective before you put things in motion. Look at poor old God. Was lonely, decided to create some company to share eternity with, and look what was created. A schizophrenic quivering mass of humanity without a clue. The poor guy can't even carry on an intelligent conversation with them. Thomas Edison said something profound once. Something like he didn't fail, he just found thousands of ways something doesn't work. In this manifestation you don't learn what is, you learn what isn't. Our conscious mind is overloaded and influenced by the physical senses. Our perspectives are trapped in a physical framework. Even if you have the blueprints to create a new universe now you can count on making some mistakes. An awesome responsibility if you have a bent to being responsible. Don't get me started. This is supposed to be a light hearted place. :-)

Fran		06-Nov-2009 18:47
Is this a reflection of a troubled soul? Your journey has been long and your path has been enlightened. Knowledge can be a powerful tool. How will you use your gift?

whitebelt		06-Nov-2009 16:59
I think most of us on here are in or getting to the age of reflection. Brought up in a paradigm set by others, encountering disappointments, disillusionments, discardment, disenchantment, getting shot at and missed and sht on and hit, and hopefully surviving it all and sifting the real from the imaginary. Pain and suffering is fertilizer for the soul. Once you escape the programming, by choice or chance, life can just become so much richer and fulfilling. You can become in touch with a bigger reality. This song by Gordon Lightfoot truly impresses me. The soul and emotion is just not something you would expect for a successful person like him to grasp or to identify with. But he captures something so beautifully and eloquently. http://awehican.org/temp/watchman.wma "Just like birds of a feather We too have followed the golden sun It feels so good, Knowin' the watchman's gone If I give you a rose, buddy Would you please bury it in the fields? I seen a rose Watchin' it all fold out There's a train down at the station It's come to carry my bones away Two engines on Twenty-one coaches long End to end Twenty-one coaches bend The watchman's out Kickin' the bums about If I wait for the right moment You can bet I'll climb aboard unseen I've done it before I know I can do it in my sleep The watchman's out Kickin'the bums about The watchman's out Kickin' your dreams about As I leave you in the sunset Got one more nothin' I'd like to say "You don't know me A son of the sea am I" As I say to you, my brother If you live to follow the golden sun You better beware Knowin' the watchman's always there If you find me feedin' daisies Please turn my face up to the sky And leave me be Watchin' the moon roll by Whatever I was You know it was all because I've been on the town Washin' the bullsht down The watchman's out Kickin' your dreams about It feels so good Knowin' the watchman's gone It's like a song Knowin' the watchman's gone "

Jeff		06-Nov-2009 16:02
Thank you, Jackie... I normally don't get into the "backstory" with anyone but friends and family... but the five year period between being laid off from my job and starting the type design endeavor was economically disasterous for me. I went through the greater part of my savings and will feel the collateral effects for years to come. However, I am a person of simple needs and wants, so I "live light". If I have food, shelter, my health, friends and family I have it all... the rest is just the icing on the cake... the only "downside" to that is the rest of the world is more superficial... the financial setbacks also affected my social llife, but I deal with that as well. I've often said that "it's better to be alone with yourself than alone with someone else". At least I only have to put up with ME! LOL!

Jackie		06-Nov-2009 13:36
Great news, Jeff. Hopefully, things will just get better and better.

Jeff		05-Nov-2009 22:02
Charlis... I also use Corel Draw and am expecting Corel 13 to arrive from a friend tomorrow via FedEx... I also have Photoshop Elements v.4, and will be making arrangements with Don to aquire his old Adobe Creative Suite v.1, as he's recently switched to CS3. As a type designer, there are a few benefits to each program that either complement or are better than the each other... Speaking of which, things are finally looking up for me after nearly 4 years of slugging away at type design (current 325 showings online)... A couple of weeks ago, a company bought two of my fonts with 200 workstation licenses, I'm negotiating with Apple for two fonts to be used in some of their software, and Hasbro just purchased two of my fonts with 50 workstation licenses. The respite for me at times is sending Don images, identifying other for him, and our usual fun bantering and needling of each other. Sorry to have beat you to the punch with the high school image, but I knew I had a scan of the original on hand...

charlis		05-Nov-2009 21:04
Jeff... I use Corel. It is more user friendly. I use Adobe for things that Corel can't do, and visaversa.

charlis		05-Nov-2009 21:02
Don, you did pretty good on the pic of Jeff. I am known for my altering pics.. one of my supervisor with gray hair (you can see the hair color line!) He is very vain. I also did one of him with George Bush Sr with his arm around my supervisor... he hated Bush! And another one with him hugging a coworker... she was wearing a low cut blouse and I tilted his head to look....

Jo-Anne K		05-Nov-2009 19:07
Love all of the new pics!

Jeff		05-Nov-2009 06:22
Don... FINALLY you did something FUNNY! It was worth your investment in Adobe Creative Suite 3 just to use Photoshop on my picture...

Don Boyd		05-Nov-2009 06:03
New photos added this evening, all in the Individuals & Small Groups gallery: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/119074941 - 1942 - Russ Schneider and his sister Judy with an alligator statue at Musa Isle Indian Village. http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/119076246 - 1967 - Jeff Levine's high school photo http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/119076249 - 1967 - Jeff Levine hitchhiking to Miami Beach High Don

Jeff		05-Nov-2009 04:45
Don, I was saving myself for YOU, but they put you into solitary because of ADSM [Attempted Dysfunctional Sexual Misconduct], otherwise known as "assault with a dead weapon"! I remember you being there because your nickname was "Donna the Prima Donna"... Mine was "Sketch", because I was always drawing my own conclusions and lettering your cel and inmate number on the walls so you'd ALWAYS have company in the showers... Now, if any of you posters (regular or new to this site) actually BELIEVE any of this tripe that Don and I fling at each other... then it's high time to unplug the computer, go outside and get a clue! (We're JUST KIDDING AROUND, folks... we actually get alonng like brothers... Caine and Abel!) Now, before Charlis thinks she's going to embarass me with the one and only yearbook photo I took at Beach High, I BEAT HER TO IT and already send a scan to Don of the ORIGINAL picture! Let me tell you about it... It was 1967, I was fifteen and in the picture I was wearing a black sport coat and skinny tie, and had my hair almost at crew-cut length, so my ears looked even bigger than they were. I remember specifically that I had a fever that day and felt real lousy, but tried my best to take a nice picture (obviously failing miserably). What can I tell you - we all weren't Powers models back in the day...

Charles Knight		05-Nov-2009 04:38
Aww,come on Jeff we're just joshin' ya', you do look familiar though.

Fran		05-Nov-2009 03:07
Whitebelt, you are correct. I have a friend that lives in CO. He has a way of joking around, just for fun. Cool, have a good evening.

Don Boyd		05-Nov-2009 02:06
Charles Knight, very interesting about Jeff and the big house. How long was Jeff in Raiford when you were there? What was his nickname while he was there and how many husbands did he have? I now understand his weirdness. : ) Don

charlis		05-Nov-2009 00:00
Don... I have Jeff's year book pic! I'll send it to your on Thursday... if I remember.

Nike		04-Nov-2009 23:55
Jeff, I visited the Small Groups and Individuals gallery. Touche', you handsome devil. Nike

Jeff		04-Nov-2009 23:50
Charles... Yes, I was there... don't you remember? I came to see you on visiting day but I refused the offer of a conjugal visit? {:cP OK, Guys... ONE "Don" on this site is ENOUGH... LOL!

whitebelt		04-Nov-2009 23:39
Fran, you must be referring to another guest. Except for some technical schools, my formal education ended at Miami Jackson Sr high in 1967. However, that hasn't stopped me from getting learned the hard way on innumerable occasions since then.

Fran		04-Nov-2009 22:25
Guest, you are brilliant, many would concur. Where did you complete your formal education?

Jeff		04-Nov-2009 21:12
You sure did, Nike... as a commemorative stamp on one of the "good guys" left in Miami! {:cP

Nike		04-Nov-2009 21:01
Jeff, I've think I've seen that picture in the Miami post office. Nike

Guest		04-Nov-2009 20:21
Fran, I live about 30 miles north of Santa Fe, New Mexico in a place called Espanola. In between mountain ranges. About 70 miles in a straight line south of CO. I am hoping to move to SE CO in the not distant future.

Charles Knight		04-Nov-2009 19:55
Jeff, you have a very familiar face...Ever been to Raiford? LOL!

Fran		04-Nov-2009 19:17
Don, glad to hear that you are on the mend. :) Jeff, Nice to match a name with a face. Whitebelt, do you live near Avion (sp?) , Co?

Don Boyd		04-Nov-2009 17:32
Charlis, I can do what you propose but after I get back upstairs to my desktop PC. Let me have a week or so and I'll get it done. Don

Jeff		04-Nov-2009 06:26
For those of you who are brave enough to want to see what the person behind the Miami trivia looks like... Don just posted a photo montage of me from 1972, 1981 and 2004 in the Individuals and Small Groups gallery...

charlis		03-Nov-2009 23:13
Don... can you create (if you have not, since I have not been to the main site in a while) a site for things related strickly to Miami Beach? IE: The old Beach High, aka Ida M Fisher, the Bass art museum when it was still a mansion, South Beach from the days of "Golden Girls" and older, etc. Hope you are feeling better... cold weather should be arriving some time soon... yeah, sure... hopefully not until you can climb the stairs. ;-)

Don Boyd		03-Nov-2009 20:58
Here's a video to a link on CBS4 about the rush efforts underway to get Hialeah Park ready for quarter horse racing on November 28th: http://cbs4.com/video/?id=85641@wfor.dayport.com Don

Don Boyd		03-Nov-2009 15:54
I created a new Miami and South Florida Missile Bases photo gallery on the front page of the Old Miami Memories page this morning. It is located athttp://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_missile_bases All the photos of missile launch sites and Integrated Fire Control sites were relocated from the Aviation gallery to the new gallery and more photos will be added that were supplied by Nike (Charles D. Carter). One new photo of the launch site on the Broward/Dade county line has added athttp://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/119016471 with a closer up version athttp://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/119016473 Thanks Charles! Don

Don Boyd		03-Nov-2009 04:39
Thirteen more images from Stan Meade were uploaded this afternoon and evening: http://www.pbase.com/image/118969133 - 1953 - vagabond on Biscayne Boulevard (Individuals and Small Groups gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118990482 - 1940's - Hotel Flagler (Hotels gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118990485 - 1950's - Algiers Hotel (Hotels gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118992033 - 1950's - Three Score and Ten Club (Downtown gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118992577 - 1950's - Atlantic Coast Line train (1950's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118995828 - 1950's - aerial view of fire damaged warehouse (Downtown gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118995832 - 1950's - 79th Street Causeway (50's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118995836 - 1950's - aerial view of Sea Isle Hotel (Hotels gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118995840 - 1950's - Peoples National Bank of Miami Shores (50's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118995844 - 1950's - Table Supply Food Store (Grocery stores gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118995848 - 1950's - Texaco gas station, unknown location (Gas stations gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118995852 - 1950's - Texaco gas station, Miami Beach (Gas stations gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118995856 - 1950's - Aerial view of Miami Beach (Hotels gallery) Don

Don Boyd		02-Nov-2009 21:02
Three more images from Stan Meade were uploaded this morning: http://www.pbase.com/image/118980030 - 1955 - Delano Hotel, Wolfie's and diLido Hotel (Restaurants gallery and Hotels gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118980034 - 1955 - Wolfie's Restaurant closeup (Restaurants gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118983682 - 1950's - Drug City on Flagler Street (downtown gallery) Don

Arizona Al		02-Nov-2009 12:23
Charles Knight: Actually was an Owsley Stanley wannabe:). Fran: Natural ergot does come from mold that forms on rye:) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		02-Nov-2009 06:20
Three more images from Stan Meade were added early this morning: http://www.pbase.com/image/118969702 - 1951 - Alton Road looking west on Dade Boulevard (1950's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118969703 - 1951 - Church at Drexel and Lincoln Road (1950's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118970341 - 1956 - Baker's Shoes - (Downtown gallery) Don

Charles Knight		02-Nov-2009 05:46
Timothy Leary wanabe?

Fran		02-Nov-2009 05:33
Gee, Al you give new meaning to whole grain rye bread.

Arizona Al		01-Nov-2009 15:55
Charlis: An ill advised and ill fated effort I am certain regarding the attempts to synthesize Lysergic Acid during the teacher's break hours at Beach High. My first degree from N.C. State was in Chemistry (1972). The only reason that I majored in Chemistry was to have access to the lab during qualitative analysis so that myself and a few confederates could extract lyserdic acid from ergotamine. The process was relatively simple for we senior Chem Majors but took significantly more than 1 hour and required realtively sophisticated distillers and extractors. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and frantically searching for the synthesizing formula for Dextro Dilysergic Diathelomide in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		31-Oct-2009 19:13
Some more images from Stan Meade were added today: http://www.pbase.com/image/118892840 - 1956 - Junior's Restaurant and the Seville Hotel (Hotels gallery and Restaurants gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118893795 - 1957 - Grant's Used Trucks (Cars gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118895534 - 1957 - Gusar Drug store (1950's gallery) plus a 1964 image of Charlie Murdock and the WQAM Tiger in a Mustang at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/118883010 Miami River Rat, I'm glad you remember the Car Hop Drive-In. Thanks for posting those memories. Here's the link to a Herald story about Hialeah Park reopening for quarter horse racing on November 28th: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/southflorida/story/1305770.html Here's a link to a Herald story about a portion of MIA's new super expensive ($2.9 BILLION) super delayed (5 years late) North Terminal opening in the near future: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1309096.html Don

charlis		31-Oct-2009 16:22
You guys, except Jeff, all went to fun schools. Nothing like that happened at Beach. The only excitement I can remember was 66 or 67 when we had to evacuate the school because of a fire in one of the labs.... seems someone snuck in to one of the labs during the teacher's break hour and tried to make some LSD!

Arizona AL		31-Oct-2009 14:12
Miami River Rat: Sorry..can not take credit..I went to Palmetto High:):) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and wishing that Cherry Bombs were still available in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami River Rat		31-Oct-2009 04:20
Wow, that pic of the Car Hop sure brought back some memories! That place closed at midnight, then the action moved across the street to Barbecue Haven, which stayed open until 2 AM. We used to leave out from Barbecue Haven to go run in the midnight drags out Milam Dairy Road. Arizona Al: I had an afternoon class at Southwest in a room at the bottom of some stairs. Right before class somebody flushed a cherry bomb in the upstairs bathroom. About ten minutes into the class, a waterfall started running down the steps. Broke up the day's monotony!

Don Boyd		30-Oct-2009 18:52
Whitebelt, thank you for all the advice. The stairwell railing is very sturdy and the steps are carpeted and I'm careful as hell because I know what can happen if I screw up. It'll be a couple of weeks before I try it. The doc doesn't think the screws will set off the security alarms but he says they keep changing the technology and no one knows for sure. Martha, thank you for your comments. We haven't heard from you in quite a while so you must be busy. Your collection is still safe and sound and one of these days ........ Charles, the banter from me about Jeff is all joking around because I like to get him all riled up. It keeps him from going totally crazy too. Stan Meade contributed all of the below new photos except for the HIppodrome Theatre: http://www.pbase.com/image/118845665 - 1924 - Hippodrome Theatre (Theatres gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118860400 - 1950's - Arabian Nights parade in Opa-locka (50's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118860401 - 1950's - R&J Electric, etc. (50's gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118844285 - 1948 - Florida Theatre (Theatres gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118842988 - 1950's - Car Hop Drive-In (Restaurants gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118842990 - 1950's - Formico's Restaurant (Restaurants gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118842992 - 1950's - Gold Coast Diner (Restaurants gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118842994 - 1950's - Hi-Hat Cafe (Restaurants gallery) http://www.pbase.com/image/118862429 - 1950's - East Hialeah Rexall (Hialeah gallery) Don

Jeff		30-Oct-2009 15:29
Charles... We DO play nice... in fact, right after making my post I called Don to check on him and tell him of my reponse. He posts these "digs" just to see if I'm up to the challenge of a quick repartee, and I always oblige. I keep telling him than "if we're going to have a battle of wits, I'll take out my brains and we'll start even", but he simply laughs and saves himself for the next round... Remember, you don't go to lunch with someone you dislike... well, in Don's case, I'll make an exception! hehehe... Don, you KNOW I wish you a speedy recovery, no matter what we post on here to bug each other...

whitebelt		30-Oct-2009 12:37
Oh,Don, I feel for you. That cast will drive you crazy and you will be straining all sorts of muscles after you get out of that wheelchair. Especially with the weight we all gain as we get older. Be especially careful when you start climbing those stairs. USE THOSE HANDRAILS and concentrate on what you are doing. Between the muscles you will be straining that will be knocking off your coordination and any drugs you may be taking and not paying strict attention to what you are doing , you will be very susceptible to falling again. Stairs are not a good place for that. Neither is slipping and bumping your shins on them. Ouch!!! I assume they have you scheduled for physical therapy as you heal. That will help a lot. Unless you slip on the stairs. If you have any slippery spots on them or loose handrails, now is a good time to get them fixed. You will be a bit klutzy. When it rains, it pours. Think twice, move once, to paraphrase an old carpenter's expression. Don't be in a rush for a while. Great time to reflect on things, though. Here is to a speedy and complete recovery. Hopefully those screws don't hold you up boarding planes in the future.

Arizona Al		30-Oct-2009 12:07
Jeff: I managed to emerge from M-80s, Cherry Bombs, Carbide (Calcium Carbonate and Water) Bombs, various chemicals "appropriated" from high school chemistry lab including magnesium and mercury (we did not know of its toxicity) and black powder collected by prying open 22 cal. shells (a really idiotic endeavor) relatively unscathed except for the incipient brain damage that has lasted the rest of my life:). I suppose that one could make a case that adding nut and bolt incindiary technology to the amalgam would have put me "over the top" and I would have been a wheel chair bound double amputee as well as an imbecile. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Forgetting who he is and where he is at the moment due to residual brain damage from the folley of his delinquent youth

Charles Knight		30-Oct-2009 11:28
Play nice guys!

Jeff		30-Oct-2009 03:25
Don... you must be getting desperate... your humorous snipes at me are becoming more mundane... Do I need to write your material as well as mine? Don't try to get a clue, you might injure yourself again reaching for it! {:cP Martha, nice to see you back on here! I still enjoy looking at that 1950's-era Skagseth Office Supplies ruler you were so kind to drop off for me that time...

Martha Pierson		30-Oct-2009 02:56
Don, wishing you a speedy recovery!!!

Don Boyd		29-Oct-2009 22:57
Charlis: yes and it's because our shower/baths are upstairs and I'm not up to going up there on my backside one step at a time and then down again. It's an enclosed courtyard under trees/palms and fortunately our cold water isn't really too cold yet thanks to our high temps. Jeff would totally disappear if he tried a stunt like this but that's not the case with me. I sit in my wheelchair in the sun for a few minutes prior to the hose down to get hot and sweaty and then the hose water feels great. The photo of Glenn Hammond on a motorcycle in the Miami Springs gallery received a poignant comment from George Nolan a couple of days ago that I think needs reposting here because he really hit the nail on the head with what he had to say: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ George Nolan 26-Oct-2009 20:31 I lived in Miami Springs from 1951 until I graduated from Miami Jackson in 1960 and went to Florida State University. Miami Springs is a very special place in time and I think most people who lived there or spent time in the community would agree it was a little piece of Heaven on Earth. We all have the same feelings and generally positive effects it had on our later lives. This was truly Ozzie and Harriet for most of us and we will never see the likes of of these times again. I feel so sorry for our children and grand children who will never know this type of life and never have the opportunity to have the influences we were so wonderfully given. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thank you, George. I think a lot of us have the same feelings. Don

charlis		29-Oct-2009 22:25
Don... shower and shave with the garden hose in the courtyard? Where is Google Earth when you need it? Glad you are feeling better.

Don Boyd		29-Oct-2009 20:03
I had my first appointment with the orthopedic surgeon yesterday after the operation 9 days ago and he says I'm healing fine. I had two fractures and they showed me the x-rays that show the steel plate and 7 screws that are holding me together. I have to keep my leg elevated with the splint and ice water flowing through some tubing contraption around the splint for two more weeks and then they'll put a hard cast on me for three or four weeks. Thank you to Whitebelt, Charlis, Roberta and Jeff for your comments. Since I had to shave, shower with a garden hose in our courtyard, and get dressed for the doc appointment I forced my wife to drop me off at Westland Mall so I could wheelchair around and advise my friends there that I didn't die out in Colorado, haha. After an hour of the mall my wife, daughter and I went out for a nice meal at Shula's Steak II here in Miami Lakes. It was great to be out of the house and off the couch for the first time in a week. I added 2GB of RAM to my laptop and put Photoshop CS3 on it so I can work on photos during my limited mobility days and they'll be coming along shortly. I did add 1987 photos of former WQAM disk jockeys Jim Dunlap and Roby Yonge to the music/radio stations gallery and a mid 1960's shot of the WQAM disk jockeys to the Rick Shaw gallery. Speaking of WQAM disk jockeys, there's a great new video on YouTube featuring the 25th Anniversary of Rick Shaw on the radio event in 1987 - the link is: This is a screen shot from the Rick Shaw 25th Anniversary in radio athttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbDZDGt0MqM Hialeah Park is coming back, which is great news for Hialeah and all the preservationists who fought to keep it from becoming condos and strip shopping centers. The Herald has an article about the ongoing restoration at: http://www.miamiherald.com/460/story/1305770.html Nike, I received your package yesterday and will check it out tonight. I'll be in touch by e-mail. I'm sorry for the delay in getting things straightened out on the site but I will get to it. Don

Jeff		29-Oct-2009 19:13
LOL! Talking about those "strike anywhere" matches, this goes back almost 50 years... I was with my parents - going to visit my uncle, aunt and cousin in Jamaica, NY on a day trip from Brooklyn. I'm all dressed up and waiting with my folks at a crosswalk for the light to change. All of a sudden I hear a hissing sound and look down to see a match lying there that had ignited just by the side of my shoe brushing against it! I jumped back in panic - I couldn't have been more than 8 or 9 years old at the time... There was one simple reason for them doing away with this kind of match: Too many accidental burns and devastating fires were started because of their volatility. Al, the world is a safer place because you DIDN'T have that technology way back then... and you have all ten fingers and toes and both eyes to prove it!

whitebelt		29-Oct-2009 13:45
Those were the days, Al. I don't think they even make those strike anywhere matches anymore. Haven't seen anything but safety matches for years. Was cool striking matches on your hip or thigh to light up your cigarette. Real cool if you could do it with your thumb. Real painful if you made a mistake. Nothing like a piece of burning match tip caught under your thumbnail. Made you feel stupid. :-)

Arizona Al		29-Oct-2009 11:20
Whitebelt: Thanks for the G-2 (sorry Jeff) on nut and bolt bombs. Gadzooks I wish the Ridge Rats had that technology in the 1960s. Would have taken M-80s and cigarrette fuses in mailboxes or cherry bombs flushed down the boys room toilet at school to a new level:) Alan Ogus, Ph.D. a Recovering Juvenile Delinquent Currently Alive And Well in Phoenix, Arizona

Fran		29-Oct-2009 03:53
Charlis, yup, the "pop ups" made life easier for dad. It was like magic to a kid who loved the outdoors. However, it did drive our dog crazy chasing the heads popping up and down. If I close my eyes I can still see the long drive at the main gate of Hialeah. The excitement of race day, limos racing to get that perfect place in line, policemen directing traffic,and traffic for blocks all waiting for a place to park. The sounds of the track...and they're off! :)

charlis		28-Oct-2009 23:22
Fran... you must admit that those old sprinkler heads were a PITA... With the Bermuda grass that everyone thought was so great... so thick... you could not see the heads... then they came up with the "pop up" versions...

charlis		28-Oct-2009 23:19
Jeff.. wish I could be there for the race! I just came across a "Jimmy The Greek" autograph from the the "Good Old Days" at Hialeah.

Jeff		28-Oct-2009 16:16
This should make Roberta very happy... November 28, 2009 is the target date for horses to run once again at Hialeah Race Track. It will be the first race run there since the track closed in 2001.

Fran		28-Oct-2009 00:37
Charlis, speaking of sprinkler heads. Willie, our lawn care guy would carry extras heads around with him and his crew. I loved to see my dads face when one of the heads were broken after the lawn was mowed. My dad would shake his head and headed inside to call Willie. Then one day Willie, showed up with extra heads and the great floods were over. :)

charlis		27-Oct-2009 22:12
whitebelt... if this appears twice, I apologize... loquat launchers... in OH we used acorns. Talk about hurting!

charlis		27-Oct-2009 22:07
nike... your memories were wonderful and brought back fond memories to me. Once I moved to Miami I never got to do those things again.... we never went back up north as everyone there now had a place to stay in Miami Beach for vacations.

charlis		27-Oct-2009 22:02
Roberta... this yo-yo weather is driving me nuts. Record heat one week, then record cold the next. My daughter, up in DE, says that they have all been sick... it's been that weird up there. They are now saying that the SE will be very wet this year.

charlis		27-Oct-2009 21:56
Charles... you are right about the clean beaches... to this day I can remember my first impression of the area... clean, white, bright... the only problems were jelly fish (I still have a scar on my knee..) and the oil that washed ashore occasionally. I work with the Anti-Litter program here in Tampa... it is disgusting to see people at work too lazy to get up and put their cig butts in the ashtrays... 2 feet away, but toss them in the landscape behind them. (One of them works in my department!) And now we are facing a charge for plastic grocery bags... they are recycable, in many ways.. burned at incinerators for electricity is one good example. People just do not think anymore.

charlis		27-Oct-2009 21:46
fran... sprinkler heads... our 1st xmas at our new home in Miami Beach... moved there in Dec 1962. My sister was skate boarding on her b-day present from April. She broke her arm in 2 places. It wasn't from falling off the skateboard, it was from tripping on a sprinkler head as she got off the skateboard! The really bad thing is that her xmas present that year was a special set of left handed golf clubs!

Jeff		27-Oct-2009 14:27
Shhhhh!!! Whitebelt! There's some juvenile delinquents on this site... don't give 'em ANY ideas... LOL! Now, to beat good old Don to the punch... His buddy Stan has been sending him scans of the photos he acquired at a flea market which were [probably] sold to him by the same guy who lifted them from my buddy Darion Avery (I told this story farther down the thread). Knowing Don's penchant for [good-naturedly] using me as his "whipping boy" (until I fire off a few volleys of sarcasm back at him and then call him up to personally repeat the volley)... There will eventually be a picture posted that was taken around 1953 by the late Ernie Skog of a hobo standing on the West side of (Southbound) Biscanye Boulvard at about 88th Street. Don told me yesterday that he's thinking about making a caption to the effect of "Jeff hitchhiking", so be forewarned just in case he follows through... I could never look THAT good! hehehe

whitebelt		27-Oct-2009 13:59
Nike, I thought when you turned the illuminators on those dusters the pilots would be sterilized. Though they wouldn't know it then. They were something to watch, though.

Nike		27-Oct-2009 13:43
Maybe we can send some nuts and bolts bombs and loquat launchers to Afganistan

Nike		27-Oct-2009 13:40
Whitebelt, We could have used you at the missile sites for those low-flying crop dusters who got too close and were just curious about what was going on in the tomato fileds they sprayed the season before. We still had to scramble the fighters at Homestead to scare them off. Just think of how much we could have saved the taxpayers with you and your technology. RE: Greyhound Bus rides -- Even though our Mother fixed a box of sandwiches for the ride (we could afford the resturants) my favorite part was the stops at the bus stations. I always treated myself to a Boston Creme Pie at the station in Calhoun, GA just before we arrived in Chattanooga an hour later.

whitebelt		27-Oct-2009 12:55
Nike, you brought up Greyhound bus rides. When I went into the Army my very first plane trip was to Columbia, SC via Atlanta. It was not a nice flight, bounced and dropped quite bit on the way to Atlanta. Let's say I was not comfortable with flying after that. So, after basic was finished I took the bus from Columbia, SC back to Miami. From then on I flew if I didn't have a car. Any bus ride over 2 hours is more than I can stand. Now I drive or go Amtrak. Speaking of the old days and the weaponry we utilized as juveniles, there was one I learned from some hoodlums I ran with for a while. Nut and bolt bombs. You took two bolts and one nut. You screwed a bolt into the nut about 1 turn, then you cut the tips off of those Ohio Blue Tip kitchen matches, the ones you strike anywhere, stuffed them gently into the nut until there was about a turn left. Then you carefully screwed the other bolt into the nut and VERY carefully turned it in until it was slightly compressing the match tips. Then you threw it into the air with a vertical spin and ducked low. When it hit the pavement a bolt would hit and detonate the match tips, then you would have a projectile or two flying with a surprising range. A half inch bolt was most impressive. It didn't take an engineering degree to turn it into a gun. Oh, the things us boys played with. But Charlis would have probably kicked our butts with her loquat launcher. :-)

Nike		27-Oct-2009 12:01
When school was out, we left Miami to visit our grandparents farm in Tennessee for the summer. A 26-hour Greyhound bus ride to Chattanooga Take the shoes off for the summer Gathering fresh eggs from the chicken house Wake up to bacon frying Big breakfasts in a country kitchen Gatheirng eggs in the chicken house Cutting hay and putting it in the barn loft Corn cobb fights in the hay loft Dried cow pie sailing contests (pre-curser to the Frisbee) Playng baseball in the pasture Stripping briars between your toes when running The smell of ragweed Wearing shoes again Telling our friends goodby for the summer A long drive back to Miami with our grandparents in a 58 Ford with a police interceptor engine Start school at Shenandoah Junior High - Always the day after Labor Day First day of school - New friend, old friends, possibly a new girlfriend??? It was great being back in Miami - looking forward to next summer on the farm

Roberta Perry Hughes		27-Oct-2009 04:46
Thanks, Charles, for a reality check. Don....hope you are faring well, these Fall days. Weather up here in the CSRA is like a yo-yo, going from flat-out hot, to downright chilly. Could be a lot worse, though. So far, we have dodged catastrophic elements, such as flooding, tornadoes, & the like, & our hearts go out to those folks who are having to deal with all of that, & every heartbreaking thing that ensues, bless 'em. I do so hope you folks are all well & happy, & feeling good, & enjoying all that life has to offer. Counting our blessings is a necessity, these days, & helps us to cope with daily life, when the chips are down. Roberta, loving this wonderful shot-in-the-arm website, each & everytime I log on to it, & getting to know such a diverse & wonderful bunch of folks, while just sitting here, at my computer, in the moments following midnight, in the Peach State....where China Berries were OUR weapons of choice, when I was a 'teen....

Charles Knight		27-Oct-2009 03:13
There are places all over the world where you may walk on cigarette butts, broken glass and all manor of garbage, there are probably spiders there too. I for one remember more clearly...Walking on a pristine beach in a safe and interesting place, interesting people and events, a good deal of lifes minor and major milestones. Palm trees on a bright weekend afternoon, the smell of BBQ. Frisbees, footballs, badmitten and swimming, boats, and skiing behind some of them. I remember chilling at the park on many Sundays while listening to live music supplied by a city that took pride in it's diversity and sponsored hundreds of free concerts and other art specific events every year. I remember watching people and being watched as others observed their version of Miami. Almost any vegetable or fruit can be had because they grow year round. Mmmmmmm frozen mango slices on a hot day at the beach. Miami is a heavily populated city, but still a very clean one by most standards. Hey, I've lived in Las Angeles and New York...Nasty places, black encrusted sidewalks and filth everywhere, Miami is by far a much nicer place. "Nope, " it's not what it was when we were kids but I have a sneaking suspician that another generation or two will utter similar statements many years from now. We can write down our stories and memories and in doing so give the future generations access to them. Here's to the magical Mr. Boyd and his Sparkle City webzone without whom life would be much less friendly.

whitebelt		27-Oct-2009 00:16
Unintentionally walking through spider webs between shrubs was a lot of fun. Going barefoot. Stepping on bees and yellowjackets and discarded cigarette butts while barefoot. Can't forget the broken beer and soda bottles everywhere while walking barefoot, too. You learned how to watch where you were going, but those damned sandspurs just came out of nowhere.

Fran		26-Oct-2009 23:24
Just a few to think about: black wooly worms on Hibiscus plants. Cherries splattering on sidewalks during a neighborhood fight. :) Rose apples picked and consumed at well. Eating blueberry and banana frozen bars on a summer afternoon. Best of all making bombs from the meat of a rotten mango. The thrill of a perfect hit, priceless.

Nike		26-Oct-2009 22:22
Remember how an overripe guava feels when you step on one barefooted? Like dog poop. It just smells better. Speaking of barefooted in Miami, remeber how it feels when you are walking through a neighbor's yard barefooted and you split a sprinkler head between your toes, ouch!!

Miami River Rat		26-Oct-2009 22:06
Guavas are the fruit that's closest to perfect. Both the red and yellow fruited ones are delicious off the tree and they also make good jelly and preserves. When green and hard they are great for throwing at your guy friends. When soft and nearing rotten, they are perfect for throwing at sisters and the friends of sisters. All hail the mighty guava!

charlis		26-Oct-2009 22:05
jeff...oved your adage about being thought a fool... alread have the cartoon in mind... a "Smiley" with a big "X" over his mouth. Of course this will go over the heads of those it is meant for.

charlis		26-Oct-2009 22:04
nike... loquats... we used to take paper towel tubes and load them with loquats... they hurt a lot more than the old "pea shooters"! When I got older, and they grew wild around many of the places I played golf at, I picked them and used them in my marinades for deer and wild boar.

Nike		26-Oct-2009 20:33
Now you've got me going -- Australian Pines Florida Holly Loquats Cherry Shrubs Cumquats Guava groves Coral rock Sandspurs Cocoanuts Mangos Banana Palms All citrus Croatens Bogenvilla Hibiscus I can't find any of it growing in Atlanta -- I miss them all

whitebelt		26-Oct-2009 17:46
Fran, speaking of those beloved sandspurs, oh, the fond memories thereof. I drove up to SE CO last week looking at houses and when I got back home I noticed 3 sandspurs on my shoelaces. The first I have seen in 15 years. Wish I knew which house I picked them up at so I could scratch it off my list. Didn't even know they had them out here. Rotten guavas and Surinam cherries were great playthings. :-) So were those old crackerballs and slingshots. Those little balls that exploded when you threw them on the ground like caps.

Fran		26-Oct-2009 17:01
Whitebelt, The guava was not the weapon used in our sand lot. First, the sand spur was the best ever. One stick and you were yelling and looking for safety. Second, the trusted water balloon. A friend of mine carried a balloon around all summer just in case. Kids, great times.:)

whitebelt		26-Oct-2009 15:10
It is how the centers of the universe relate that make for pleasantness or otherwise. This particular corner of it is rather pleasant if allowed to remain so. We have shared memories of a place that was. Anyone else have guava fights when they were children? Those were great trees and provided great ammo, either green or overripe. So did the gravel on the sides of the road. Having lived in other places where they didn't have an ample supply of such things I have wondered about the development of the youth there. :-)

Guest		26-Oct-2009 06:12
The center of the universe, here? Oh, no, not POSSIBLY.

Jeff		26-Oct-2009 01:00
Oh, Whitebelt... In regard to the millions who think that THEY are the center of the universe... another old tidbit: "Those of you who THINK you know everything are annoying to us who DO!"

Jeff		26-Oct-2009 00:59
Charlis: That reminds me of another similar one... "It's better to be silent and thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt". For those of you who didn't know - Soupy Sales passed away last Thursday at the age of 83. I had the pleasure and privilege of meeting wiht him in 1972. One thing he used as a rule for his comedy act stuck with me all through the years: "I always use myself as the butt of a joke, so I never offend anyone else". God rest you, Soupy... you will be missed.

Fran		25-Oct-2009 21:59
Right on, brother, not very many can. :)

whitebelt		25-Oct-2009 17:38
There are 6 billion people in the world. If you started counting each one, giving each one 1 second, it would take 190.2 years to count them all. Out of all of those, including wise men and women and fools, the overwhelming majority think they are the center of the universe and empowered to judge all others. That is not an old saying, just an observation I have made. Has to do with walking a mile in another man's shoes. Or woman's. But there are few men that can walk a mile in high heels. :-)

charlis		25-Oct-2009 16:32
I've got 2 that I like... they seem to go over the heads of who they are meant for... I have them both hanging on my cubilcle walls. "Be who you are, because those that matter don't mind, and those that mind... don't matter." "Wise men speak because they have somethng to say. Fools speak because they have to say something."

whitebelt		25-Oct-2009 12:30
Don, hope you are doing OK. Give us an "Ouch" or "Groan" every so often to let us know you are there.

whitebelt		25-Oct-2009 12:28
I like the "Who am I, where am I, what am I doing here?" line. I dunno.

Arizona AL		25-Oct-2009 12:01
And to quote Alan King; "Anyone who owns their own home deserves it" Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona and paying homage to a Neo Borscht Belt Comedian

Jeff		24-Oct-2009 15:53
Then there's: "Find a friend, fine and true - screw him before he screws you!" "You can pick your friends, you can pick your nose, but you can't pick your family" From the old radio show 'Fibber McGee and Molly' - "Theirs is a strong friendship... on a warm day you can smell it for miles!"

Charles Knight		24-Oct-2009 04:50
Alright...Let's hear some more tidbits of wisdom. Here are a couple from my dad. If you can't use your friends, what good are they? (I've copy righted this one). When you play with poop, you smell like poop. This one was a little more graphic. Grandparents...What's that? My family has kids at a ripe old age and we never get to meet them because they're gone already! (There's humor here if you look hard enough!)

charlis		23-Oct-2009 22:39
Miami girl... you were so lucky to have known your grandmother. My mother's mother died when my mother was 14. My other grandmother died when I was 8. I loved her but I was too young to learn from her.

Miami Girl		23-Oct-2009 21:33
My grandma gave me that bit of wisdom about the man with no shoes, also told me "when you lay down with dogs, you get up with fleas". Grandma's are wonderful, and I plan to pass that on to my grandkids.

charlis		22-Oct-2009 22:15
What inspired me was a song by Anthony Newley at a show in Atlantic City... "Teach the Children of the World". Got me thinking about the fact that we should be born with the knowledge to help us in the future... or be born old and live our lives backwards so that we know how to handle things. To this day I think about the future possibilities and make plans for them.

whitebelt		22-Oct-2009 14:55
I first heard that phrase from a teacher, Mr. Greenstein, or was it Greenfield, at Miami Jackson. He was a very inspirational teacher. That and the poem Invictus are the two most important influences in my life. They taught me how not to take things personal, to transcend the me. How I am but one of billions caught in the ebb and flow of humanity. Gives you a different perspective of this experience. If all of us haven't experienced what we have gone through already, the "good" and the "bad" we wouldn't be where we are. I learned a lot, and am happy with it.

Jeff		22-Oct-2009 13:59
Whitebelt... I'm glad you're still with us. I won't dwell on the details of your unfortunate experience, but suffice it to say I'm glad that you've healed as best as possible and are available to share your experiences and memories with us on this blogspot. As I say so often... thanks God for the little blessings in life, for those are truly the most important. The rest is just the icing on the cake. Remember the old saying: "I used to complain because I had no shoes, until I met a man who had not feet"...

whitebelt		22-Oct-2009 13:40
Let me correct that. It was Old Cutler and 176th St, not 174th. I was making a left turn under the green light coming from 176th. It is a very short light, about 3 or 4 seconds for 176th. Some northbound clown stopped on Old Cutler started to take off while i entered the intersection, which caused me to stop. Then BAM!!! A dump truck pulling a bulldozer heading south was gauging the light on Old Cutler, he wasn't going to stop. The NW corner of the intersection, which had a peculiar curve to it was all overgrown since Andrew, and you couldn't see a vehicle if you were stopped on 176th until it was right at the light. I never saw the truck that hit me. That was the weirdest day of my life starting that morning long before the accident. It took me a very long time to figure out just what happened. There was a school on 176th. Lots of parents making that same turn. I had done it dozens and dozens of times. The driver owned an excavating company in south Dade. His insurance was bogus, a Panamanian outfit not licensed anywhere in the US, much less Florida. He skipped the first hearing. Then he skipped town and went back to New Jersey. Got away clean as far as I found out. But that was nothing compared to what transpired later. All because of laxness and corruption on the part of the state of Florida.

whitebelt		22-Oct-2009 13:00
Get a laptop, Don. Us old geezers can't set at desks like we used to. Dessicated and herniated discs, reduced blood flow, arthritis and rheumatism, etc. Sit in your easy chair with your feet up, heating pads for your back and legs. I am sure other muscles have been acting up because of having to favor that leg. If you have a hot tub or whirlpool, use it. In about 5 hours I will be observing the 16th anniversary of my death. I was creamed by a dumptruck pulling a bulldozer at Old Cutler and 174 St. Went through a death experience but was sent back I guess because the devil didn't want me. There were no bright lights and Jesus waiting for me then. I had excellent muscle tone and was very strong then, and hardheaded. I just kept going. Closed head trauma, broken ribs, sprained back, damaged left hip, and a hole in my spine at L2. Because of games played by my employer and slimy lawyers I never got checked out properly, and was run off by my employer over the next year because my head injury was going to increase his workers comp premiums. I came back to a nightmare that took years to get through. Let's say it left a very bad taste in my mouth. The old skeleton starts to fall apart when you get older, and injuries from younger days start taking their toll. Stay active, but don't get too strong as any cramps or spasms are that much harder to get over, and flexible. Stay warm because the cool will cramp you up. You may not notice it when the causation occurs, but it will show up in a day or so. Then it causes other places to spasm up. Such is life, either a pain in the ass or some place else. :-) Stay warm, and when that knits well enough exercise it. Stretch it as it heals. Gives you more slop later on so you won't cramp so easily. Until you get to that point, enjoy the drugs.

charlis		21-Oct-2009 22:11
Don... take care. Stay off the computer!

charlis		21-Oct-2009 22:10
whitebelt... try driving in the mountains in a 28' motorhome! And definitely do not go and use the bathroom if at the back of the vehicle. Took a trip back in the mid 80's to the S/N Carolina/TN area. Ex was driving when I got the urge... looked out the window and my urge changed to a bigger urge as we rounded some curves!

Don Boyd		21-Oct-2009 21:59
Well, what was planned as outpatient surgery turned into an overnight stay in the hospital for pain management and to make sure I didn't form any blood clots. It was a miserable night with me waking up every 15 or 30 minutes for one reason or another. I was released two hours ago and have to keep my left leg elevated most of the time which makes it a real pain to use a PC. Whitebelt, thanks for your comments. I will check out your e-mail in a few days after I get better situated. My time on the PC is going to be limited for a while. Don

whitebelt		21-Oct-2009 21:01
Don, hope your surgery went OK. If you didn't get my email with something to keep you occupied until you get more mobile let me know. Had to drive across a mountain range yesterday evening while a storm front came through with lots of rain. Temp dropped to about 35 in part of it. I hate driving in mountains with 2 lane roads, tight switchbacks, glare from oncoming vehicles, doorposts that limit your ability to peek around hairpin turns with vehicles coming up or down the other way, 2000 foot drop offs, water ponding or ice, and the dark. It works on your nerves. Didn't have that problem in Miami. Just had to worry if the idiots were armed better than yourself. Why I am trying to move to the flatlands further east. Mountains are for viewing or visiting during the day. Luckily that wasn't the scariest route to take. New Mexico is the 5th largest state, but there is not a straight level road above I-10. Up, down, or twisting around.

Leighton		20-Oct-2009 22:40
About a year ago, "Preservation" magazine had a brief article about the stadium, and the attempts to restore it. One of my memories, is the 72 Republican convention being held there (or a part of it). Again, it amazes me, that BOTH parties held their convention in the Miami that year. That would NEVER happen again.

Jeff		20-Oct-2009 20:22
Whitebelt, thanks for the street correction... it's been 11 years (just before my mom's passing) that I had that photo negative collection... so time can play tricks on even a trivia buff like me. If you have a moment, you can correct my note under the picture as well (if you haven't already done so)!

Miami River Rat		20-Oct-2009 13:58
Since we're talking photos, in my box of family hand-me-downs from early Miami, I have a picture titled "Miami's first swimming pool, 1898". It's a pool enclosed on four sides by two stories of cabana-like apartments. Very ornate. Anybody have an idea about where/what this was?

whitebelt		20-Oct-2009 13:51
Jeff, the A&P warehouse store was on NW 62 St on the north side. Knew it well. That would be about the right avenue. I saw the Budweiser wagon and horses there once.

Jeff		20-Oct-2009 13:40
Well, kiddies... I've checked out all of the other images [with the exceptiuon of the aerials, as I don't have time right now] and I was right. Simply put: the photos are all from the Seth and Myrna Bramson Collection... originally owned by me. What can I say...

Jeff		20-Oct-2009 13:25
PS: I'll bet you the aerials were also taken by the late Ernie Skog...

Jeff		20-Oct-2009 13:23
Don, the bowling alley was Interama Bowl/Pinerama Bowl/West Dixie lanes owned by Jack Knapp. Once I read what you received, I'd suspected the shots Stan sent you of the bowling alley, Golden Steer Steak House, Crown Burger and the A&P were all images from my former collection that now belong to Seth and Myrna Bramson. Before I'd even seen them in their galleries, I KNEW they're all images originally taken by the late Ernie Skog's studios [with the exception of Crown Burger, taken by the late Robert M. Kelley]. Once I viewed the restaurant ones, it was confirmed! A few years back, I gave a gift of a pile of 3x5 prints to my buddy Darion Avery who owned Avery Glass and Mirror in North Miami. Some time after that, one of his customers asked if he could borrow the prints to look them over, and being a good guy, Darion obliged. To his chagrin and regret, the prints were never returned and the customer was long-gone. I suspect that most (if not all) of those prints have found their way into collectors' hands because of that smarmy low-life who had to steal them from Darion in the first place. It never ceases to amaze me how many shot that I DIDN'T print for others has made their way here... BTW: The A&P was their warehouse store, which I believe was located at 3333 NW 54th Street.

Don Boyd		20-Oct-2009 06:55
A belated thank you to Charlis, Roberta and Whitebelt for their medical tips. We'll see what happens at 10am when I show up for the surgery, haha. It's been ten days since the break and they're going to have to do something or it will heal by itself with the bone displaced. I hope they restore and re-open the Marine Stadium. Somebody should lynch all the City of Miami politicians since 1992 for keeping it closed and allowing it to be vandalized and damaged for seventeen years. I went to a few concerts and a Halloween party there and it was a fun place that our residents need, especially since they paid for it long ago. There's a recent photo of it athttp://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/112834853 and the organization trying to restore it has a site at: http://www.marinestadium.org/ Mr. Stan Meade sent me some great old shots that I added tonight. The Golden Steer Steakhouse, the Champagne Steak House, East Coast Fisheries/River Edge Hotel and a Crown Burger, that looks like it's near Miami High, all in the Restaurants gallery. Also, a 1950's shot of a brand new about to open A&P Supermarket, a 1950's aerial view of a relatively new bowling alley on West Dixie Highway in north Dade (forgot the name of it but I'll find it), an early 1950's image of the Goodyear Blimp Enterprise on the northeast side of Watson Island - all in the 1950's gallery. Plus three 1950's aerial images of downtown from different directions, all in the Downtown gallery. There are a lot more photos to come so stay tuned. Don

Charles Knight		20-Oct-2009 03:24
Love the Marine stadium and have many varied memories of boat races, and concerts. Queen, Sammy Hagar, Kansas, Mahogany Rush, Steppenwolf, even co-produced a concert featuring Gato Barbieri there in the eighties. There is an active group lobbying the city and state to renovate it. It was designed by a Cuban immigrant and is a truly unique structure. Last time I visited I jumped the fence and the vandalism has taken on a new height! It seemed as though every square inch both inside and out is covered in graffitti! Even under the pier structure! All in all the building itself looks sound enough and with a lot of money and love could once again shine.

Parks		19-Oct-2009 23:45
The Marine Stadium is a truly beautiful and unique piece of architecture. I really love it and it makes me heart sick everytime I see it abandoned. I saw The Byrds and Jimmy Buffet play there. I also ran many races there in my 2 liter inboard hydroplane "Duck Soup". I was a big Marx Brothers fan. I almost named it "Spirit of Margaret Dumont".

whitebelt		19-Oct-2009 22:36
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_MIAMI_MARINE_STADIUM?SITE=FLTAM&SECTION=US They should save it. Watched a lot of boat races there.

Nike		19-Oct-2009 12:35
Parks and Whitebelt, I left in 1965 before General Salter was there as Director of Air Defense. I think he came to 31st HQ at HAFB in the early seventies. I need to add him t the Battery Roster section of my Nike website "Nike252 dot org"

Parks		19-Oct-2009 02:08
Hi Whitebelt, That's the guy. Bill knew Salty Salter after he retired in Homestead. They were both interested in growing tropical fruit. Bill mentioned that Salter was interested in Bromiliads also.

whitebelt		19-Oct-2009 00:50
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/sesalter.htm General Salter died in 1993.

whitebelt		19-Oct-2009 00:48
Parks, is that Sylvan Salter? I remember a Sylvan Salter who was a colonel at the time and was the commander of the 31 Arty Brigade back in 70-72. I worked in the HQ building and saw him often, but never said more than good morning, sir. My office was the first on the right walking in. Silver haired if I remember right. Speaking of silver haired. A while before I left I worked with a SFC Leonardo Granda. A real gentleman. He had been in and out of the Army since the 1920's and was just getting his twenty years in before they started the Qualitative Management program. He was 70 years old. He reenlisted not too long before that started. He was such a great guy. He took his basic training with a cavalry unit before they did the centralized basic training.

Parks		18-Oct-2009 23:44
Nike, My friend Bill wants to know if you knew General Salter. I took a ride down to the Aero Jet road today. I couldn't drive close enough to see anything. There is a gate across the road about a mile from the buildings. Next time I'll try to take a bicycle. The weather was great today. We've got our first cold front of the year. The fields in Homestead are either planted or being prepared for planting.

mike cox		18-Oct-2009 14:17
Alb How odd that a car salesman talked you out of buying a car. I'll bet didn't tell anyone he did that.!

whitebelt		18-Oct-2009 01:00
http://orthopedics.about.com/cs/sprainsstrains/ht/iceinjury.htm Ice is an immediate treatment. It can also play hell with your muscles. A lot depends on where the swelling is. To heal you need heat. You want the blood vessels to be open to provide the antibodies and to drain away the crud. Heat and elevation for your foot. Proper nutrition would be beneficial. You are already trying to heal, Don. More trauma to come with surgery. Get lots of drugs.

Roberta Perry Hughes		18-Oct-2009 00:04
The application of a cold pack helps to relieve swelling, but do not apply it directly to the skin; heat application may feel good, but if there is inflammation within the area, it will only add to it, & you do not apply heat directly to the skin, either. When it doubt, call your doctor's office, Don, & either ask his nurse, or talk directly to him. Get your instructions from the horse's mouth, to be on the safe side. This is the best advice I can give you....good luck.

charlis		17-Oct-2009 22:45
Don... according to my friend, and personal experience... yes, it will help.

Don Boyd		17-Oct-2009 22:30
Thank you Charlis, I will try that tomorrow because I'm having a problem with swelling of my ankle and foot and the doc can't operate on it on Tuesday if it's swollen like it is. Will that help with the swelling? Don

charlis		17-Oct-2009 20:41
Don, glad to see you are back up and functioning. Alternate hot and cold... 15 minutes cold, 15 minutes nothing, 15 minutes heat... take it for good advice from a practice dummy of a massage therapist. It really works!

Don Boyd		17-Oct-2009 16:42
I'm sorry but Whitebelt was referring to the broken bone in my leg being fixed, not me being fixed, which will never happen. Don

charlis		17-Oct-2009 16:33
Don... post was by Whitebelt on the 15th... "Glad you made it home and are getting fixed, Don. Modern medicine, especially the drugs, makes getting repaired easier."

Don Boyd		17-Oct-2009 05:14
Charlis, I didn't see such a post and it is definitely not true. Wrong leg, lady. : ) Don

Parks		17-Oct-2009 03:37
Florida Movie Night went well. Several of the people who came live in Homestead so they found the Aero Jet General movie interesting. One couple lives only about a mile from the site. We may break in and take a look. Nike, two of the guys here tonight worked in the park and in the past used the missle sight to store records and computer tapes. They are both recently retired science geeks. You can order the Aero Jet film from www.wklginc.com. The film shows several motor tests, the last of which produced almost six million pounds of thrust. It also rained burning chunks of rocket fuel over a large area and sulfuric acid over an even larger area. It is well worth watching.

Alb		17-Oct-2009 01:09
Mikecox I remember Packer Pontiac. I believe it was on the Trail (SW 8th Street) near Brickell Ave. I went there in 1967 with my girlfriend. I was intent on buying a GTO. Somehow my girl sent vibes to the car salesman and he actually talked me out of buying it because it would be dangerous for children. Now I don't have the girl or children but I still want that car.

Nike		17-Oct-2009 00:43
Parks, Can you fill me in on the details of the AeroJet General Film and if a copy is available. When I was at one of the Nike sites across the road from AeroJect General, they were testing the motors for the Staurn V where I later worked. It would light up the sky of the Everglades and Florida City. Nike Nike

charlis		16-Oct-2009 21:59
white....I love the post about Don getting fixed... guess his wife is happy! ;-)

Parks		16-Oct-2009 21:49
Hi Guys, Tonight is Florida Film Night at my house. We have ten guests coming. The short film will be about Aero Jet General in Homestead. Thank you to who ever it was that suggested that I get that film. The feature will be Beneath the Twelve Mile Reef. I don't have posters for either movie so I stuck a sponge and a bottle rocket next to the front door. I'll let you know how it goes.

Arizona AL		16-Oct-2009 04:22
Steve: Jerry Leshnick and I were cadets at Miami Military Academy in 1960-1961. We became close friends and kept in contact until 1964 when I graduated from high school and joined the military. During 1960-1964 Jerry and I had many adventures together in Miami Beach most of which were "delinquent" in nature. His father, Max Leshnick owned the Atlantis Hotel at South Beach during this time frame. I am sorry to hear that Jerry passed away. I am sorry that I have no pictures but glad of the many fond memories. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		15-Oct-2009 14:07
Glad you made it home and are getting fixed, Don. Modern medicine, especially the drugs, makes getting repaired easier. Many years ago I punched a redneck about 10 times more than I should have after breaking bones in my wrist and last two fingers. BTW, it is best to use clubs or guns on them as they are extremely hard headed. I didn't have the money for a doctor and it wasn't done while at work, so I lived with it. Big old swollen right hand which I had to use a lot, including shaking people's hands. Took months before it settled down, but I had lost a good bit of use of the last two finger, no strength in them. It never set properly. Went on for 6 years like that. Then one day I was in a hangar at the airport running some telephone wire. I was stepping off the top of an office onto a ladder, my eyes full of sweat and holding the wire in my left hand, when I misjudged a bit and fell to that hard concrete floor. My first instinct was to throw my right arm out to break the fall. My hand stung like hell, but it had knocked it back into its proper alignment. After a month or so I regained full use of the hand and those fingers. Weird how things work. After the operation be sure to exercise that foot a bit to keep it loose while it heals, otherwise you will lose some flexibility in it. From my personal experiences heat packs are much better than ice packs. Be sure to restrain yourself from any impulses to kick your dog for a while. :-)

Jeff		15-Oct-2009 03:47
Hey, Donneybrook! It WAS funny... and you haven't a leg to stand on in your defense! In fact, the screws in your leg are the ONLY screws you'll get at your age! For those of you new to this site or just plain masochistic, Don tries to get to me with a snide little comment... and I usually fire off a retort ot two. We're just having a bit of fun... at least that's my story and I'm stickin' to it... and I fully expect more from "Stumblelong Harassidy" as he'll be more of Don "Bored" than Don Boyd... laid up at home and firing off his poison pen. [Don, you know I hope you'll feel better no matter WHAT you say!]

Don Boyd		15-Oct-2009 03:09
Hush up, Hopadong Jeff, it wasn't that funny even if one guest did enjoy it. Thank you Roberta, Kenny and Miami Girl for your words. We got home just fine on Southwest Airlines thanks to the wheelchair gents at Denver, New Orleans and Ft. Lauderdale. It was such a great experience compared to the normal long waits for security and the long hikes that I'm considering using the orthopedic boot on future flights, haha. Southwest (one class, Miami Girl) was real accommodating, helping me board and disembark. The connecting flight at New Orleans was running a few minutes late due to local weather and the captain of the flight came out and pushed me in the wheelchair down the jetbridge and into the plane to help out the local staff. The first officer took my heavy camera bag off my lap and carried it to my seat for me because I couldn't carry it while on crutches. You have to love an airline where the pilots help out the local staff in trying to keep the flights on time. I met with the orthopedic surgeon this morning and the operation to put a plate and screws in my leg is next Tuesday if I pass all the pre-clearance stuff which I do tomorrow with my primary care internist. In the meantime I have to stay off my left leg and keep it elevated most of the time with an ice pack on it a few times a day. Don

Jeff		15-Oct-2009 01:16
Guest: Glad you liked my Hopalong Cassidy bit with Don. He's ALWAYS using ME [humorously] for a scapegoat, so turnabout is fair play!

Steve		15-Oct-2009 00:16
Arizona Al: I happened on this site when I did a google search for my uncle, Max Leshnick. Saw your comment on going to Miami Military Academy with Jerry Leshnick. His father and my grandmother were brother and sister. How well did you know Jerry or his family? Any pics? He died tragically in 1997. Last I saw him was the early 1990's.

Roberta Perry Hughes		14-Oct-2009 23:37
Been tending to company, lately, & not on here, so, had to scroll down to read all that I have missed.... Dear friend & Webmaster, Don....Hated to read about your painful injury! I can certainly empathized with you....! Although it is difficult to comprehend the logic of it, right now, believe me when I tell you that, one day, it will all be a distant memory of the past (the pain) & you will be as good as new, once again. Catch up on your reading, when your eyes are not crossing from taking Percocet....enjoy watching movies, too. And I know that you will realize what a perfect gift, ambulation is, & how we all take it for granted, to be able to get about, on our own power. Mobility, & our five senses, are the greatest gifts a person can ever own, & when one, or more, are compromised, it is a real eye-opener. If I lived nearby, I'd bring you some Chicken and Dumplings, made from the recipe in my "Whistle Stop Cafe Cook Book," by Fannie Flagg.... Meanwhile, I wish you well. I wish it to be soon. May you heal without any problems. All my best to Mrs. Boyd.....

Guest		14-Oct-2009 22:55
jeff.. got a kick out of the William Boyd post... my 2nd son-in-law was named William Boyd... a great nephew of THE William Boyd... I always called him Hopalong... for a good reason... he was a klutz... 3rd sil was named Bobby Love... only have one daughter! When she was pregnant everyone was trying to come up with a name for the baby... we all settled on "lotsof"... she did not go with the name!

Kenny Blanton		14-Oct-2009 22:09
First of all: GET BETTER DON!!! I saw this on another site & i thought some people into music might know this guy from the 60s/70s: Steve Ferguson, whose intensely rhythmic and intricate guitar playing earned him an international reputation in blues and rock 'n' roll circles, died Wednesday at his Louisville home of cancer. He was 60. Ferguson, called “Fergie,” was perhaps best known as a co-founder of NRBQ with keyboardist Terry Adams. The high school friends had teen bands in Louisville before leaving in 1967 for Miami, Fla., where they joined forces with cast-offs from a band called Seven of Us to form the New Rhythm and Blues Quintet, later amended to NRBQ. Kenny

Jeff		14-Oct-2009 02:33
Be nice to me, Don! Remember, I know you personally (as compared to the other posters) and I wished you well IN SPITE OF YOURSELF! It's a bit of an irony here... William BOYD played "Hopalong Cassidy", and Don BOYD is "Stumblelong Klutzidy".... {:cP

Miami Girl		13-Oct-2009 23:53
Don, good luck on your flight home tomorrow. Maybe you'll get lucky and the flight attendants will feel sorry for you and put you in first class - that and your Percocet should make it bearable. Slipping on ice - exactly the reason I want out of NY and back down south!

whitebelt		13-Oct-2009 18:23
Speaking of aisles, Amtrak is an experience at night. Walking down those aisles you have to watch for feet, heads, and small children not to step on. All too often while rocking and rolling around trying to keep your feet. Those seats are horrible places to sleep and people just sprawl out the best they can. Something touching about it, though, a bunch of people sleeping in one area, mouths agape, curled up, sprawled out, sleeping under seats, you name it. And snoring. So human. My worst night though was trying to sleep next to a guy that ate potato chips even in his sleep. Once the lights go out even the most together person can look funny.

whitebelt		13-Oct-2009 13:06
Ouch, Don, you have a long and painful trip back home. Be sure to keep that leg elevated as much as possible during that trip. Just don't stick it out into the aisle. :-) Percocet can make life so much more bearable at times. They should make issuance to people over 55 part of the health bill. I am still in New Mexico. A place called Espanola, about 30 miles up the road from Santa Fe. Hoping to swing getting a cheap house in or around La Junta, CO to spend my final days. Cute little town in the middle of nowhere. Lower elevation, too. Mountains are nice, but best seen from a distance. You can just see the peaks of the Rockies from there. Get back to me when you can. It may give you something to do while recuperating.

Don Boyd		13-Oct-2009 05:10
Thank you to the nice folks (you too, Jeff) for your kind comments regarding my fall. It was my distal fibula that fractured and the doc at the urgent care center out here wanted to schedule me for an operation but I wanted to return home and have it done. The orthopedic surgeon he was consulting with by phone blessed it if I had the operation within 7 to 10 days. So after three days of painful hobbling around on crutches we fly home tomorrow and I have an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon on Wednesday morning. I really felt like a dumbass for doing this but the folks at the urgent care center said they had been seeing local people with fall injuries all day, that it wasn't only dummies from Miami falling. Whitebelt, where are you located now? I'll get back to you regarding the items that you discussed below - I can't think too clearly now under the influence of Percocet. : ) Don

Parks		13-Oct-2009 04:55
Don, hurry home. The only ice here is in your glass. Sorry to hear about your leg.

Jackie		13-Oct-2009 03:52
Don: Sorry about your fall. I hope you have a speedy and complete recovery. Jackie

Fran		13-Oct-2009 03:12
Me too, sounds like a plan. Later...

Jeff		12-Oct-2009 22:55
Whitebelt... thanks for the offer.. perhaps at a future date I'll take you up on it!

charlis		12-Oct-2009 22:31
Don, sorry to hear about the slip. At our age, I get scared walking into the building where I work when it rains... slick granite floors! They refuse to "rough up the floors" as it would ruin the decor! Take care.

whitebelt		12-Oct-2009 21:28
Interesting choice of words, Fran. My focus is on the physics of those things. Based mostly on how such can happen. No magic. Creating a very simple blueprint of a very complex existence. Only some are able to read and apply such a blueprint. Want a blog? webmaster at awehican dot org There is one thing about using a blog that has an advantage for some of us. You tend to choose your words more carefully to get your message across. You have an instantaneous feedback that is different from typing something on a typewriter or even on your word processor. It helps labile and demented people such as myself to focus more. Plus the feedback you might get from others if they read it. You can develop your ideas as time progresses. Then rewrite if necessary. You see your presentation and can adjust accordingly. All without a bunch of papers to store away or old files to find on the laptop. Just click on a URL and you can access it all. Of course you have to spend a little while getting used to a new technology. But that just limbers up the brain. One of these days I will endeavor to do just that and spend less time tinkering with things. There are lots of years of real life experience on here with many different perspectives that can be shared with others. Since my site is new and very obscure you can practice on it before posting links to it. At least you can put down some words that will be saved on some server somewhere for who knows how long. So much history and knowledge has been lost because of discarded clay tablets, parchments, and papers in out of the way places.

Fran		12-Oct-2009 20:11
Whitebelt, Interesting, upper level thinking, discovery of what has been. As for myself "Time Traveling" and the ability to understand different wave lengths of sense. Most probable would be the natural ability not the manmade. Don.I hope all goes well. Free time can be a good thing for you and your wife.:)

whitebelt		12-Oct-2009 20:10
Thanks, Nike. Those were both before my time. That Dr. DuPuis owned a lot of land around there. Had citrus groves starting on the NE corner of 32nd ave and 62st heading north and more land across 32nd from it. My older sisters, who may be reading this forum, could tell more stories about that. They really reach back in time. Maybe they will chime in. They have some stories to tell. :-) They could tell a lot about that 36st and LeJeune area before the expressway was built. I just remember getting my hair cut at a barber shop near the Dixie Mills place there. Onion cuts mostly. The dairy was pretty much dead by my teens. I just have some distant memories of the working dairy and the cows in the pasture. They had a store at the dairy right on the south edge of what is now MLK Park selling dairy products. I remember a really neat pet shop just west of 32nd on 54th across the street from the dairy. They even had an electric eel in it. One of those cool old Miami places.

Nike		12-Oct-2009 17:34
Whitebelt, Have you seen your namesake on Don's website? pbase.com/image/103740382 pbase.com/image/102197648 Nike

whitebelt		12-Oct-2009 16:53
Don, sorry to hear about that break. Falling on ice scares the heck out of me at this age. Not as bounceable as I once was. Good reason to live in Florida as you do. Winter is coming early to the Rockies. Fortunately I live in a valley that tends to stay a bit warmer than the rest of the area. But, oh, those 6 months of long johns and staying in the cave gets wearing. The only thing that keeps me from moving back to Florida is the humidity and temps below 75 degrees is more uncomfortable than a dry cold. You did pick a bad place to break. Keep it warm. I have been looking over the Pbase terms of service and such and there should be no problem with everyone registering and not activating a gallery in order to post. Each post made to this forum adds to your available disk space. The guestbook and private messaging system would bypass that. If the regular posters want to communicate with each other they can use their registered accounts to exchange emails and then they can take a load off both Pbase and your resources, including using you as a relay station. In addition, they can also communicate with members on other Pbase accounts. Plus, everyone that registers with Pbase is more likely to acquire a paid subscription to the service than drive by posters. I am sure Pbase knows that. Due to my predisposition to wild hairs and occasional masochistic impulses I just bought more hosting space and cranked up another website to play with. This forum section can be a pain in the potato to maintain for you, especially because of Pbases's format and primary purpose. I offered you some space on it before if you wanted to utilize it. I can set up dedicated forum software on a subdomain and you or another volunteer can maintain it. You can just link this forum section to it, taking a load off of your resources. You can even set up a parallel site with more flexibilty. It isn't so hard maintaining once it gets set up. The space will be available for at least a year and if I don't renew it is easy enough to move the whole thing someplace else. My unlimited disk space, bandwidth, and huge variety of available software only costs me $72 for the first year. Goes up a bit after that. It could be a great place for someone to get their feet wet before deciding to jump in. You would have little problem in administering the site, pretty much just checking in once in a while after it gets up and running. Something to think about. I am in the process of looking for another place to move to, hopefully SE Colorado, so I will be distracted at times, maybe long periods of time. My portion of the space may take a while to set up and configure to my liking, but I can set a forum up on a subdomain very quickly if someone wants to give it a try. Forums have an admin that does everything, and they can assign trusted moderators to help keep the riffraff out. It will be a learning experience for anyone that wants to give it a try, and a labor of love. My domain is awehican.org , of which you won't see much of anything there yet. I can create a URL of miami.awehican.org or variations thereof to host the forum. Don gets first dibbies if he wants to go that route. He can keep this and that one separate and link later if he wants to. I will be offering free space to others on other forums I haunt to create blogs and forums of different interests before long. Not for social networking or hearing about your vacations, likes, dislikes, and politics, but things like this forum, arts and crafts, and analyzing the universe. I myself am very much into putting this "reality" and existence into perspective. I am an alternate physics person and it all started in Miami because of a book and Coral Castle. Jeff and others, if you guys need some personal webspace to advance your ideas or interests I can give you a spot on that domain for free. The only restriction will be you will not be selling adspace on it. I don't profit from it and no one will profit from my no profit. There is no problem with you advertising yourself on it, just no adlinks you get paid for. I can provide a freestanding WordPress blog to get you up and running in a hurry. You have almost total control of what you can do and post with one of those. WordPress is serious, elegant, and one of the more user friendly blogs. If any of you are interested email webmaster at the domain link I gave above. Not the one with miami in it. Tell me who you are on this forum and what kind of site you want. Be advised you must be able to read and research to get the most out of it. I will set it up and you will take it from there. It isn't a casual undertaking unless you are happy with things out of the box. I may write a user's guide simplifying the geek speak a little later to give you a better idea how things work on WordPress. Now I will shut up and conserve Don's resources.

Jeff		12-Oct-2009 16:16
Yes, Don... my best wishes for a quick and speedy recovery... Aside from all you do here for your visitors, my time getting to know you personally reinforces the fact that you're a good guy and didn't deserve this incapacitation. Feel better, my friend!

Charles Knight		12-Oct-2009 11:33
Ouch Don! Sorry to hear about your fall, here's to a quick heal and complete recovery.CK

Don Boyd		12-Oct-2009 05:29
Good grief, my e-mail address has been posted in bold print on numerous pages on this site for years, and another e-mail address on my aviation stock photos site for even longer, and I get maybe 3 or 4 spam messages a day and they may come because of me posting my e-mail address in places other than PBase. If you still don't want your e-mail address posted, do it the Jeff Levine way and put a space in between words and "at" instead of "@" like the example he provided. Most people have no reason to join PBase unless they want to post a ton of photos. They can post as "guest" or they can fill in a name if they want a name showing. And I'll say this again one more time: PBase is a photo hosting site with a primary purpose of allowing individuals to build galleries of photos. The site was not built to host chat groups, forums, etc. but fortunately it does allow comments like you have seen on this site. It just isn't that complicated to use unless you really want to get into the nitty gritty of every option available. Jeff's right, I don't have the time to be forwarding e-mails from one person to another. Especially these days, because I slipped on black ice in Colorado Springs yesterday and broke a bone in my left leg near my ankle and I'll be having an operation later this week after my return to SoFla Tuesday evening. My time on the PC is going to be limited for a while - bear with me. Don

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 21:13
Well, I tried 2 response but they haven't showed up here or in my mailbox. Of course I was sending them to myself. May also be a premium feature. Checking my profile it says I have 31 days left on my trial account. "After 30 days from your first upload, you will no longer be able to upload, and your photos may be removed." Evidently you still keep your posting privileges, but photo storage privileges will end.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 21:01
I lied. From the below it appears you might be able to create a trial account, but if you NEVER upload or do anything that creates a gallery you may retain your account after then.. Maybe a database glitch or something they do on purpose. Shhhhh!!! http://www.pbase.com/pricing.html If registered and logged in you will see a yellow PM in the middle of the page to the right of a registered users yellow name. Clicking on that allows you to send that person a private message maybe. It could be simply a reply to a message, creatin gan individual thread. It shows the last two messages they posted. Type a message above the post and send. Look it over. I will try one to this message to see what happens.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 20:02
The Whitebelt Dairy was between NW 54th and 62nd streets and along 32nd ave west to 37th I think. Used to have a coral rock fence along 32nd with coconut palms. Pbase is kind of disjointed. You can sign up for a trial account, but mine hasn't ever expired. This may be just for people to comment. Who knows? Maybe you have to pay so you can create a gallery, but not to comment. Nike, you can try sending a message to 1petros73 with an email address so you two can get in contact since he has an account. Of course he would need to check it? The regulars all should see if they can get a trial account that never expires. Maybe they have something where Don gets some credit for referrals, especially if they get a full subscription. This time I promise to stay off for a while so things get back to normal.

Nike		11-Oct-2009 19:51
Whitebelt, Where is the Whitbelt Dairy? I know where Milam Dairy and Graham Dary were but not Whitebelt. The best dairy I ever visited was the BlueBonnet Dairy in Brenham, Texas. Nike Nike

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 19:45
Well, after logging, not logging out and rebooting it came back up with out having to log in again. I will now take a long break because my name shows up too much. :-) BTW, I have never worn a white belt in my entire life, even a patrol boy belt. I grew up next to the Whitebelt dairy, now an industrial area and MLK Park.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 19:39
There is a private mail feature for registered users, but haven't figured it out yet and am unlikely to try for a while. Such requires you having to logon. There is a small yellow link that says PM in the middle of this page near the top when logged in that gets to your mailbox. I have too many to check as it is. I haven't checked to see if there is a persistent logon between reboots.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 19:37
Got it, Nike. Think I figured it out, but need 1petros73 to chime in to verify the private comment operation. If you make an entry in the guestbook of a registered user and enter a name and email address the recipient will see the username and email address in a bar at the top of the message, but the public doesn't. The public can read the entry though. There may be a profile setting to change that. No need to put the email address in your guestbook message. The private message I sent to 1petros73 doesn't show to the public, but I am fairly certain he got it. I hope he can get back to us and verify. This can get Don out of being a relay station for messages. Don, you may want to enter a rough guide in your instructions above the posts.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 19:33
Got it, Nike. Think I figured it out, but need 1petros73 to chime in to verify the private comment operation. If you make an entry in the guestbook of a registered user and enter a name and email address the recipient will see the username and email address in a bar at the top of the message, but the public doesn't. The public can read the entry though. There may be a profile setting to change that. No need to put the email address in your guestbook message. The private message I sent to 1petros73 doesn't show to the public, but I am fairly certain he got it. I hope he can get back to us and verify. This can get Don out of being a relay station for messages. Don, you may want to enter a rough guide in your instructions above the posts.

Jeff		11-Oct-2009 19:31
A simpler way to avoid spambots and web crawlers that harvest email addresses would be to post an email address in this forum as such: username AT mailserver DOT com

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 19:30
Got it, Nike. Think I figured it out, but need 1petros73 to chime in to verify the private comment operation. If you make an entry in the guestbook of a registered user and enter a name and email address the recipient will see the username and email address in a bar at the top of the message, but the public doesn't. The public can read the entry though. There may be a profile setting to change that. No need to put the email address in your guestbook message. The private message I sent to 1petros73 doesn't show to the public, but I am fairly certain he got it. I hope he can get back to us and verify. This can get Don out of being a relay station for messages. Don, you may want to enter a rough guide in your instructions above the posts.

Nike		11-Oct-2009 19:17
Whitebelt, I just sent a message to your gusetbook by clicking on your "yellow" name. Nike

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 19:12
OK, I just made a guestbook entry to 1petros73 as a guest. Clicking on his profile and this his guesbook shows the message. I entered a name and email address which doesn't show to the public. I will try another one marking it as a private message which I think will not show to the public, but will to 1petros73. 1petros73, sorry to use you as a guinea pig, but you were handy. :-)

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 19:02
Aha. If you are registered you have a guestbook section where guests can send you a private message. But the person you are sending the message to has to have their username in yellow at least once before you can call up their profile. Click on the yellow username, click on the guestbook tab and then leave a message just as you do on here. There may be options in the users profile as to who can leave private messages. I am logging off again. I have my email address enabled for all public, which is not good if you don't want spam mail because of web bots that collect email addresses. I may make a couple of other changes before logging off. Click on my yellow username and see what comes up. There are a few tabs at the top to check.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 18:53
Well, when I posted as guest it went back to white. When I posted logged in it posted i yellow.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 18:52
I am logged out and posting the guest way. My name is still yellow. I can call up my profile but it isn't displaying my email address. Another logged in registered user may try it to see if it displays and let us know. If I click on it while logged in it will probably show because it is my account.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 18:47
If you register with pbase and login then you username shows in yellow. In your profile is the option to allow your email address to be displayed or not. Clicking on a yellow name brings up their profile. At least for registered users. I will change my profile and display my disposable email address, then log off and see if it displays. It may only be visible to logged in registered viewers. After logging off it may also turn my name white, which indicates I am not logged in. Will find out here shortly. Clicking the private comment box sends the message only to Don.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 18:39
The yellow usernames indicate a registered user. White for those that do drive by posting.

whitebelt		11-Oct-2009 18:34
Ugh, this is a complicated forum to post in. I had registered with Pbase some time back getting a username, etc. You have profile you can edit allowing for displaying your email address and other things. I am trying an experiment here. Never could figure just how to login as whitebelt. But I went into the login screen, signed in with that account, found out I had been using the wrong email account on my posts but somehow I clicked on the favorites for this site and it appears I am logged in because it just shows Add Comment without the other stuff next to it. Will find out after I hit the enter button Here goes

Nike		11-Oct-2009 16:23
I noticed there is an EMAIL box to the right of the NAME and ADD COMMENT fields. What is the purpose, other than the obvious? I am inserting my email address this time to see what happens. It might cause giant spotlights over Miami tonight . Nike

Nike		11-Oct-2009 16:20
Unless there is a rule requirubg we don't do so, send me an email @ NikeHistorian@Nike252.org. I will reply with the pdf file attached. Best regards, Nike

Jeff		11-Oct-2009 16:14
Nike, Unless Don has an suggestion that I don't... there's really no way to offer your email address without posting it. The only other possibility - and I don't know if Don had the time or inclination, is to send him your email address and he could forward it... but with his time schedule, don't count on that being the likely choice.

1petros73		11-Oct-2009 16:07
Nike, I am not very computer savvy. How can I show you my email address with out posting it for everyone? Thanks

Nike		10-Oct-2009 22:34
Parks, Thanks. I'll have to make it a stop while there in December. Nike

Parks		10-Oct-2009 21:49
Hi Nike, Yes it's still there and still good.

Nike		10-Oct-2009 21:09
Does anyone know if Alabama Jacks is still there?

Nike		09-Oct-2009 21:22
1petros73, I have saved it as a pdf file if you want me email attach it. Nike

Nike		09-Oct-2009 21:00
1petros73, This is where I got the information www.fshs.org/Proceedings/Password%20Protected/1987%20Vol.%20100/268-272(Krome).pdf Nike

1petros73		09-Oct-2009 20:00
Hello Nike, From the postcard I gather that the house on Floyds Fruit grove faced Le Jeune rd. Now there is a two-story apartment building surrounded by houses there. Neither the apartment building or the houses face Le Jeune rd (sw 42 ave). They face the streets instead. From what I found on "Dade County Property Search" the grove was from 42 ave to 39 ave & from 5 st to 4 st. The houses located on sw 3 st & sw 6 st had their backyards bordering the grove. By the dates of the houses built on what was the grove I assume that the grove closed around 1950. Could you give me the website for Florida Horticulture Archive? I can't find it. Thanks for the great info. I truly appreciate it.

Jeff		08-Oct-2009 21:40
You know, Don... I DID spell "Glenn" with two "N's" at first... but I had a memory lapse and wasn't sure, so I changed it. At least I got the double-S in Curtiss right! {:cP

Don Boyd		08-Oct-2009 14:26
Nike and others, regarding Opa-locka: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_opalocka Jeff: you misspelled the developer and famous aviator's name: there are two "N's" in Glenn Curtiss. Don

Miami River Rat		08-Oct-2009 13:38
I've been to the Old Scandia smorgasbord restaurant in Opa-Locka. Used to go with my grandparents, back in the day. Actually before my day, I was a little kid at the time. I remember a lot of Arabian themed buildings around there, now that someone has mentioned it. Allapattah: That's the area around Miami Jackson high school. "Allapattah" is a contrived English spelling of the way Seminole Indians pronounce "alligator". Or so said my grandpa, who still called Coconut grove "Silver Bluff" and that area somewhere north of downtown "Lemon City" as late as the 1970's.

Nike		08-Oct-2009 10:16
While I have the floor..... I remember we lived in the flight path (3434 SW 7th St) of the prop jobs taking off and landing at Miami Airport. They were so low, our house (and the glass jalousies vibrated loudly. We were glad when jet engines came along. The changed the flight path and they got higher and faster and quieter. I remember my Mother hung the clothes on a clothes line to dry after washing in the washer/wringer only to have chemicals sprayed on them by the low-flying prop-jobs spraying for fruit flies. She had to rewash all the little black spots off the clothes. Nike

Nike		08-Oct-2009 10:08
Jeff, I concede -- you are right. I Googled Opa-locka (I hope I got it right, Don) and saw the familiar buildings. I was very disappointed when I read, "In 2004 Opa-locka had the highest rate of violent crime for any city in the United States." RE: Allapattah, I guess it just sounded Moorish, Morrocan, or something. That's how I confused the two places. Actually, the article referred to Allapattah as "Little Dominican Republic. What happened to my Miami? That isn't the way I left it. Regardless, it is still the place of my best memories. I visit two or three time a year just to drive the neighborhood and the places I remember from the fifties and the sixties. Nike

Jeff		08-Oct-2009 04:24
Almost forgot... there used to be a zoo in Opa-locka. Shortly after WWII, tiger trainer Roman Proske purchased the zoo and moved it to North Miami. It stood where North Miami Junior High School was built in 1955... which is now part of the new North Miami Senior High. [The new middle school is now on NE 135th Street and NE 7th Avenue.] During the 1940's, Opa-locka had pineapple plantations and a processing plant as well. The Propeller Bar was a favorite hangout in the 1940's. It was located inside the Opa-locka Hotel. Old Skandia was a smorgasbord restaurant on Perviz Street across from where the Opa-locka library was built. Ernie Skog, who photographed a lot of locations that are now part of the Seth and Myrna Bramson Collection [and formerly were in mine] had a satellite location of his "Ernie's Studio & Camera Center" there for years on Opa-locka Boulevard. A tradition for decades was the "Arabian Nights Parade". Marine Drugs was a few doors east of Ernie's and later became the Jolly Laundry. Just West of Ernie's shop was the Val-U Market, later the home of a Goodwill store... and about a block West of there is the Opa-locka City Hall. By now I've used the term "Opa-locka" enough to familiarize everyone with the proper spelling and keep Don sequestered in his cage... Wouldn't want to anger him with a mis-spell now, would you?

Jeff		08-Oct-2009 04:15
Yep... as Don would say... it's NOT Opa-Locka, Opalaka or Opalocka... it's Opa-locka... begun as a development for the rich by Glen Curtiss but devastated by the 1926 hurricane, it embodied the style of "1001 Arabian Nights" in its architecture and street names. So many people wrongly blame the influx of black residents for the "decline and fall" of Opa-locka, but my belief is the following theory: With the closing of the marine base circa 1961 or 1962 decimating much of the local population, property owners had more vacancies than tenants. As vacancies mounted and property values fell, landowners decided to rent to anyone who would rent from them, regardless of race. Many old-timers who were steeped in the Southern ways of segregation began "white flight" from Opa-locka and the demographics of the population shifted from predominately white to predominately black. As I've said, it's just my theory. Don might have a more solid backstory - but mine "seems" to have some validity based on other trends in this town...

Parks		08-Oct-2009 03:15
Az Al & Nike, Please stop! You have to learn the correct spelling before the wrath of Don falls upon you! Jeff knows, he'll tell you. Jeff was very brave to actually spell it out.

Nike		08-Oct-2009 02:23
AZ AL, Maybe right but I just can't remember. The buildings had arabian or morrocan-style features. I thought of Allapattah. Could that have been right? Nike

Arizona Al		08-Oct-2009 01:54
Nike: Jeff may be tangentially correct. I have recollection of the entry demarcation to Opalocka in the 1960s having an arabian-middle eastern motif with columns, turrets, archways, and the letters OPALOKA presented in quasi-arabic graphics. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona and hoping that his recollections are not obfuscated by the amount of "substances" consumed in the 1960s and the natural progression of time.

Ray		08-Oct-2009 01:40
About the laser sightings.. I've saw the same thing on South Beach years ago. It was an outdoor laser show coming from Club Amnesia, I think at about 2nd and Collins. It would shoot north on Collins and go for miles. It was legal too. To do it, they were supposed to have spotters to make sure no planes were in the way. This laser even appeared in an FAA NOTAM (Notice To Airmen) to warn pilots in the area. Speaking of lasers... many of you may remember (or not remember clearly) the laser light shows at the Planetarium at the Museum of Science. Music of the Stones, Zeplin, Doors, Beatles and many others with a laser and slide show inside the dome. I think they started in the 1970s. They're still going on. First Friday night of the month. http://www.miamisci.org/www/planetarium_laser_shows.php A lot of adults come every month and are amazed that it hasn't changed. The cool thing is today's kids love classic rock as much as we did. Kinda gives you hope. Ray

Nike		08-Oct-2009 01:31
Sorry Jeff, it wasn't Opa Locka. It started with an "A"

Jeff		08-Oct-2009 01:08
Opa-locka! THERE! LOL!

Parks		08-Oct-2009 00:47
Hi Nike, I know what section of town you're thinking of but I can't tell you. I once spelled it wrong on this site and Don had a lot of fun at my expense. I'm not going to try to spell it again! Go to Don's photo galleries, Column 4, Row 7.

Leighton		07-Oct-2009 23:36
CK's laser explanation sounds logical, as entertainment entities can get somewhat lax with their equipment. In San Antonio, 1991, we were filming a TV-movie next to the airport, and the genius DP placed a huge light pointing directly at the control tower, for a night shoot. Needless to say, the FAA and airport security were on our backs in five minutes, threatening a shut-down. Happened again in 1997, around a smaller, public field where the Air Force did "touch and go" maneuvers - our SAPD received some quick calls from the base down the road.

Nike		07-Oct-2009 23:21
I remember a section of north Miami that looked like an Aladdin town but I can't remember its name. It wasn't too far from the Nike site in Carol City. What was the location and is it still there? Nike

Guest		07-Oct-2009 22:44
Right. It's GMT.

Guest		07-Oct-2009 22:27
Coordinated Universal Time is abbreviated UTC. The International Telecommunication Union wanted Coordinated Universal Time to have a single abbreviation for all languages. English speakers and French speakers each wanted the initials of their respective language's terms to be used internationally: "CUT" for "coordinated universal time" and "TUC" for "temps universel coordonné". This resulted in the final compromise of using "UTC".

charlis		07-Oct-2009 22:21
UTC? From what I can remember, basically we know it as Military Time.... based on the International Date Line... or Greenich (sic) Mean time zone. 13:41 is actually 1:13PM.

Guest		07-Oct-2009 21:14
I get it, UTC is University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. What is UTC??

Guest		07-Oct-2009 21:07
The site is probably set to UTC.

Nike		07-Oct-2009 18:41
I notice the time of posting is four hours off the actual time. Is there a reason?

whitebelt		07-Oct-2009 18:38
I had seen those searchlights from time to time, too, Don. This was different. Just one, and pretty much aimed at the east. I would think there were restrictions on searchlights or lasers due to airplane traffic. Where it was pointed was a common route for planes leaving the airport. They would head east then bank around to the north and west. Don't remember any passing that night in that time. Was a fairly thick beam, similar to a searchlight beam, so would have taken a lot of power. Punching through those clouds is what got me. You know how the clouds come in low. This light punched though 2 or 3 layers of them and kept on going sharp as can be.

Don Boyd		07-Oct-2009 15:08
Roberta, thank you kindly for your comments to my wife. She says thank you very much. Unfortunately my honey "to-do" list has grown to numerous pages because of the time I spend on the PC so please don't thank her again or you may just start World War III around here, haha. Whitebelt, I don't remember any laser lights like you described. That's some weird stuff. All I remember were the normal white searchlights moving around in the skies. It seemed like every time they opened a new store on Palm Springs Mile they hired the searchlight companies to attract attention and we thought they were pretty neat to watch from their platform. Nike, sorry for my absence. I'm trying to catch up on e-mails and will tackle yours today. Don

Jeff		07-Oct-2009 02:42
It was just mentioned on the early news that the Bacardi Building [built in 1963] is going be designated a historic landmark by the City of Miami. They're also hoping to do the same for the Lemon City Cemetary.

Miami Girl		06-Oct-2009 23:22
I just discovered www.upchucky.com - a site with TONS of oldie-goldie, commercials, games, old video's. Memories galore!! Everybody else may already know of this, so all I can say is, I've been a day late and a dollar short my whole life.

Nike		06-Oct-2009 20:39
A geat old postcard of Johnnie & Mack by the........... at www.cardcow.com/123728/worlds-largest-auto-service-plant-74-n-e-20th-street-miami-florida-miami/

Nike		06-Oct-2009 20:04
1Petros73, In the Florida Horticulture Archives is a reference to Floyd's as stated, "In the 1920's the City of Coral Gables planted a grapefruit tree in the backyard of every new home. Dade County became famous for its grapefruit and many gift box shippers of grapefruit, round oranges, king oranges and tangerines could be found from downtown Miami to outlying sections of the county. One grove, paking house and shipper, Floyd's Fruit Farm, was located on LeJune Road between the Tamiami Trail and West Flagler Street. It was a well known and interesting stop for tourists and all tour busses. Visitors drank fresh squeezed fruit juice, bought "tree-ripened" citrus, and had gift boxes of citrus shipped home. They also walked designated paths in the grove and took pictures of each other in front of fruit-bearing trees. However, unauthorized fruit picking became a problem so warning signs, "Beware of Rattlesnakes," were placed alongside designated walks. Those signs effectively discouraged all but the sneakiest from picking fruit." So, you live in a famous Miami neighborhood. What is there now? Nike

Nike		06-Oct-2009 19:39
1petros73, There is a color postcard of Floyd's Fruit Grove at: www.cardcow.com/122129/picking-oranges-at-an-orange-grove-42nd-ave-miami-florida-miami/ Nike

1petros73		06-Oct-2009 18:08
No Nike, Though coincidentally I have visited Tennessee twice (the Smoky Mountains & Banner Elk, North Carolina area). By the way, I appreciate the info on Anthony Abraham Chevrolet. Thanks again

Nike		06-Oct-2009 16:25
1petros73 I don't know when Anthony Abraham was built. I do know it was there in 1955 when I moved to Miami at SW 34th Ave and 7th Street. Out of curosity, does you handle have anything to do with Petros, Tennessee?

Jeff		06-Oct-2009 15:58
Sidenote: It's been reported that Arnold's Royal Castle now has frosted mugs once again for their birch beer!

1petros73		06-Oct-2009 15:36
Hello, I asked this question last year but got little response so I will try again. Does anyone remember or heard of Floyds Fruit Grove which was located on Le Jeune rd and SW 5 st? My house, built in '39, is adjacent to what once was the grove. I live behind the Chevrolet Dealer ship on the north side of sw 8 st & Le Jeune rd. I am a Miami history buff & am curious of certain things that you just can't find in text books. Also, do any of you know when the before mentioned dealership was built? I do know that the Uncle Toms Bar B Q was originally a plumbing supply store in the 20's. Also, if anyone is familiar with the Nw 7 ave & 186 - 199 st area you might be interested to know that most of the houses along that avenue have basements. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Roberta Perry Hughes		06-Oct-2009 11:56
Nike...I live 3 miles from a little fart-of-a-town called Wadley, which is on US 1, south of Augusta. My son lives just 16 miles away, in Louisville, which was Georgia's first state capital. Another Poster on here, lives in Wrens, which is between Louisville & Augusta. I reckon "home" is where you hang your hat, or so they say.... However, I left my heart in Old Miami, long ago, & far away.... To Mrs. Boyd....I truly admire your husband, Don, for having captured a time & place, so very dear to so many, in such a skillful, & very loving way. The Galleries have frozen time & place, & when we reflect on those images, we are all young again, either children, as I was then, or teens, or young adults, etc. He is so devoted to this site, & I know he works very hard, to maintain it, even up through the wee hours of the morning, sorting through the photos we send to him, & deciding where they will best be shown, & all for our enjoyment & viewing pleasure. I really appreciate all that he does for us, & I want to thank you, for sharing his time with us. Most sincerely, Roberta, the Georgia peach.

Arizona (North Carolina) Al		06-Oct-2009 11:33
Roberta: And a hig ho hello back at ya. Wif is in Montreal this week visiting her son, daughter-in-law, and grand-daughter. I am in North Carolina on my monthly snake oil and dog and pony show business trip. Lotta interesting blog chatter lately:) Like the "old days" when this website was new..YAY! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and temporarily in Raleigh, North Carolina.-

Nike		06-Oct-2009 11:28
Roberta, You can count on it. Where is home for you? Nike

Roberta Perry Hughes		06-Oct-2009 06:01
Wow...talking about those light beams in the sky evoked a childhood memory for me. When our family moved to Miami, in 1952, we moved there from rural Georgia, where our nearest neighbors would be over a hundred yards or more away, separated by large fields. The nearby towns were small, with country stores, a post office, & a city hall of sorts, & maybe, a bank. Morgan, the County seat, had the old brick courthouse in the middle of town, & even had a walk-in movie theater...! When we moved into our brand new 3 B/R 1 Bath home, on SW 55th Street, we were in awe, of having neighbors so close, & on either side of us, behind us, & across the street...! My goodness...! We were used to having a flock of chickens in our yard, & lots & lots of space, in which to play, & draw in the dirt. We were country, from the get-go. We were all outside, after dark, one hot muggy Summer night....& that's when we saw them....the search lights, crisscrossing the night sky, from horizon-to-horizon...! Jimininy crickets....! We had never seen anything like that in our lives....! It was both fascinating, & scarey, at the same time....! I remember trembling, & I could feel that my eyes were bugged out, & knew my mouth was agape, as I was speechless...! Of course, our father told us they were from the airport, to help the airplanes find their way to the runways. Shoot. Even the airplanes were a sight for us to see, with their blinking red and green lights, as they were headed in for a landing. Daddy took us to the Tamiami airport, so we could watch the planes taking off & landing. It was really something, & we were in awe of those airplanes....& the huge wind vane, with the lights on it. I am feeling that same sense of awe, in reading the information about the missiles that were in Our Town, that we were totally unaware of. I find every word about this subject very fascinating, & I wish I could come down there, too, & take that grand tour with those who will be fortunate enough to do so. What a rare treat that will be.! Guys, do take some photos, of all of you together, when you convene for this tour, & I hope to see them in the Galleries, to put faces to the names of some of the guys I have come to know on this site. I am so looking forward to that, if you will all honor my request. I will be most appreciative, & thanks, in advance...!! Quick "hello" here, to Arizona Al....Hey, Az Al...! How be ya...? Tell the "wiff" I said hello to her, too...!!

Charles Knight		05-Oct-2009 19:56
The big industrial lasers became quite popular around that time, The Who, Yes, and several other groups used the at the old baseball stadium and the Orange Bowl.

whitebelt		05-Oct-2009 15:16
This discussion has brought up another memory which I may have posted about before some time ago, especially due to the area we have been discussing. I can't remember the exact year, somewhere around 1984, but I was in the yard my mother's house near Brownsville when off to the northwest was this huge green searchlight like beam pointing toward the east. From the direction I thought it must be in north Hialeah, maybe a grand opening or something. However, this was a most unusual searchlight beam. It punched holes right through the low cloud cover. No diffusion, no blocking of the light. Went right through and onwards just as clean as can be. Plus it did slow pulses after a while. It had to be a big laser beam. I thought it may have been some gimmick at a grand opening or something, but after these posts I realised it may have been coming from that area. Perhaps a government test. That was the only night I saw it. I moved down to the Pinecrest area some time later and did see the beam once more, though not as active as it was that night. Don, you live in that area, do you ever recall a grand opening or something with a laser beam? That one beam is all I saw.

Nike		05-Oct-2009 13:41
Don, Sounds like a normal case of case of "half-timers." By the way, I finally browsed through all of your galleries. W-O-W! It sure brings back some great Miami Memories. Don / Whitebelt, Thanks for the feedback. I will do some research. Nike

whitebelt		05-Oct-2009 12:07
Nike, I do seem to remember the missiles were on their way. Would have been dumb not to. We were with the advance party and left before they were fully deployed.

whitebelt		05-Oct-2009 12:03
Nike, I don't recollect if the missiles were actually transported. It was one of the batteries from the Keys if I remember right. The exercise consisted of them running a convoy along Krome from down south and up to that area, then deploying. I left before they were fully deployed, all I did was check to see they had their wire commo ran and working. I recollect they didn't do as well as they could. I will never forget that convoy going up Krome. I was riding in a jeep wedged between a very large captain and a radio with a major and the driver in front. The driver was a doofus. As we were traveling north a car going south started passing a couple of other cars. We all had our eyes riveted on it as it took forever and our driver never slowed or nothing. That car pulled back in maybe 3 car lengths before impacting us. This was at speed. The major screamed at the driver. If I had not been squeezed in the back I would have jumped. The captain was a cool guy. There is something very scary about riding in jeeps at highway speed and the potential of a head on collision. Anyhow, we survived and came in the back way to that area from Krome. This was in 71 or early 72.

Don Boyd		05-Oct-2009 06:46
Nike, I swear I saw Hawks on the original site east of Red Road in 1963 and north of NW 183rd Street when out there with a buddy and two girls. I built model aircraft, rockets, missiles, etc. at the time and I thought I knew my missiles at the time because I was an aviation junkie as a kid. The Hawks were considerably shorter than the Hercules plus there were a group of them on the mobile launchers and that's my recollection. Then again on the other hand I was wrong about the Admin/IFC street, probably due to killing memory cells with Heineken for 40 years. Hopefully someone with the missile command before you arrived will write in and confirm that I'm right or wrong. Don

Nike		05-Oct-2009 04:39
Don / Whitebelt, I am now beginning to wonder about the possibility of the property being used for HAWK functions. You had a recollection (circa the early sixties) of seeing HAWKS raised during a visit. Also, others have referenced this as a Nike Hercules /HAWK facility. If Whitebelt, or anyone else, can provide documentation or was a first-hand eyewitness to HAWK missiles there, I'll have to rewrite some of my data. Nike

Don Boyd		05-Oct-2009 04:34
Nike, the Army owned an irregular shaped portion of the land on the north side of the Snake Creek canal due north of the missile launch sites on the south side of the canal. I didn't color highlight the northern portion on my aerial photos because nothing was ever constructed there to my knowledge and there is nothing there now. However, that land is fully described on one of the links that I have under my 1970 aerial photos of the area. http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/117835305 - under this photo is a link to the 2004 Environmental Baseline Study for the Florida Army National Guard's Snake Creek Local Training Area. The link, repeated here to make it easier for everyone, is at: http://eul.army.mil/SnakeCreek/Documents/FLARNG_EBS.pdf - there are some mistakes in the study, such as calling the facility a former Air Force Nike Hawk launch facility from 1962 to 1979 but I have to presume that their maps are correct. I have added two more photos to the Aviation gallery - one is a Google Earth screen print and it is at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/117930747 The second image is a diagram found in the Florida Army National Guard report and it is at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/117931818 . It shows the property line for the former Army property on both sides of Snake Creek. As you can see on this diagram, the FP&L substation mentioned below is outside of the former Army property. The property on the south side of Snake Creek is being turned into a local training area for the Florida Army National Guard and the property on the north side will be developed under some public/private type of housing and business development from what I remember reading. The cost of developing the south side for the National Guard is being borne by the private developer partially in exchange for leasing the north side under a long-term lease but I haven't seen any work being done lately on the south side. I'm wondering if the developer is defaulting due to the tremendous housing market decline down here? Don

Nike		05-Oct-2009 04:33
Don, Thanks for the additional data and photos. This will help me accurately construct a larger overall history of the military history for the area. I just sent you an email with a photo attached. It is of D Battery laiunch area circa 1994. A commerical airliner eas photographed flying to MIA between the launch area (now the Krome Avenue INS Detention Center) and the old Admin/IFC area which was still standing then. Nike

Nike		05-Oct-2009 03:40
Whitebelt, I Googled the location. I was never aware there was anything connected with us or HAWK units across Snake Creek from C Btry launch area. However, I left C Btry in 1964 when the launch area was on the other side of Red Road and on the same side of the Snake Creek Canal as the current launch area. Across the canal from the older launch area is now Mt. Trashmore. You entered the launch area from a sandy road which is now paver and named NW 47th Ave. The Landmark School (now closed I think) was near the location to the launch area. Are you saying you actually saw HAWK missles across the Snake Creek Canal from the current C Btry? When I Googled the location NE of Flamingo and Snake Creek Canal, there appears to be a power transmission station that connects to the overhead power lines that run through the area. Possibly Florida, Flicker and Flash got the land from Uncle Sam. Nike

whitebelt		05-Oct-2009 01:31
Nike, if you do a street view at 4882 S Flamingo and look east you will where I stepped on that snake. About where that median is now.

Parks		05-Oct-2009 01:23
Nike, count me in for a tour when you get down. I forgot to drive by the Riveria Theater today and look for the siren. Maybe tomorrow.

whitebelt		05-Oct-2009 01:22
Nike, I posted that about Snake Creek. Looking at Google Earth that may have been just inside Broward. Zero in on Flamingo Rd/NW 67 Ave and SW 48th Ct in Broward, just below 821. You will see the intersections of canals and the area immediately NE of it. Still pretty much undeveloped. A little over a mile from the C Bat admin as the crow flies. About a half mile from the county line.

Guest		05-Oct-2009 01:04
Nike, I did a commo evaluation on one of the batteries there in 71 or 72. There was a canal running N-S paralleled by dirt roads on both sides. There was a canal intersecting that ran E-W. I believe one of them was called Snake Creek, which was descriptive as I stepped on a cottonmouth hidden in an undercut of the bank. Luckily he took off. Just to the NE of this intersection was the training area. Kind of a combo of trees and cow pasture and bordered on the south by that E-W canal. Can't really remember how far this was from C Bat, just near the area.

Leighton		05-Oct-2009 00:34
"Where shopping is a pleasure...." Good grief, lots of grocery chat.....

Nike		05-Oct-2009 00:17
Don, Thanks for the extra effort. Whitebelt, Thanks, I get my money's worth from Google Earth. You have really peaked my interest with the comment, "There was a training area just to the east and just to the north of another canal going east and west. Was where the HAWKS would go for their evaluations." Did you actually see them, have any other first-hand knowledge of this, or heard about it? Charles

whitebelt		04-Oct-2009 23:55
My apologies, Al. I am sure there were some tough boys in those nice suburbs. :-) Nike, if you have Google Earth, which is the greatest thing since personal computing began, you can street view the hell out of that area. Miami is pretty well covered. I am amazed by some of the places in this country they have street views of. There used to be a dirt road, which I think was 67 Ave that paralleled a canal to the west of C Bat. There was a training area just to the east and just to the north of another canal going east and west. Was where the Hawks would go for their evaluations.

Don Boyd		04-Oct-2009 23:31
Nike: I went by the Publix in question half an hour ago and it's still open. I also drove more than 1/2 mile to the Naval Operational / Marine Reserve Center on 186th and 62nd Avenue and took a photo but it was after the sun set and I'll re-do it later to put up on my site. The old Admin/IFC site is now surrounded by apartment buildings everywhere - population density beyond belief. Don

Arizona Al		04-Oct-2009 22:57
Whitebelt: Exception taken. You obviously did not make acquaintance with the "Tyrants" at Palmetto High 1962-1964. The Tyrants was the hard core element of the Ridge Rats and included myself, Nathan Levy, Ron Valentine, Emilio Mazza,Terry Stewart,Tom Garrett (deceased), Dave Congdon (deceased), Paul Atwood (deceased) and Butch Childers. Mischief, mayhem and general social malaise was our vision and direction. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. a recovering Tyrant alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		04-Oct-2009 20:57
Charlis, it was the parents of the vets.

charlis		04-Oct-2009 20:49
sirens, explosions, etc... Jeff, the explosion was at a place near the Burdines. You responded to that a long time ago... it was during the Missile Crisis. Here is a poser... this was asked of me recently... who were key in ending the draft? Was it hippie protests or the returning Viet Nam vets?

Guest		04-Oct-2009 19:52
>>Coral Gables PD (the siren that went off in the middle of the night for an hour a number of years ago)<< Do you mean around 1980 or 1981? I recall that, though it was during the late news, not in the middle of the night, because they actually mentioned it near the end of the newscast. By that time people were not as much into the Cold War scenario, so there was not immediate widespread panic, but still, it was unnerving.

whitebelt		04-Oct-2009 19:46
I remember how unsettled it was around the south and west sides of the airport. I used to love to fish in Blue Lagoon. You parked along NW 7th street and walked in on a little trail to get to the south side where the mangroves were, or you could pull off Perimeter Road and fish on the north side. Mullet fishing was the big thing in the north side, the south side had more variety. Bass, snook, and an occasional Tarpon. There has to be a world record bass living in that lake. That lake was originally a rockpit that Seminole Rock quarried to supply concrete companies. Used to be some neat derelict items in it, like an old PT boat on the north side. Watching the airplanes leaving and arriving at the airport change from DC3's, DC6's, SuperConstellations, Lockheed Electras, C19's, and fighter jets to 707's, DC8's, DC9's, 747's, and even the Concorde. I remember parking at the west end of the runway smoking a doobie while 747's were landing just over your head. Wow! I remember gathering oysters with my mother at Maule Lake in NMB, east of US1. And eating them. Fishing and dipnetting for shrimp on the Rickenbacker Causeway. Fishing for jack on the tidal flats at Matheson Hammock. Getting devoured by mosquitos on that trail there, too. The alligator in the pond at the picnic area. Crandon Park and the zoo and the train. Waiting at drawbridges. Tree frogs. Bufo toads. Land crabs. Having your trashcan at the back where it was picked up. The garbage pit next to it where you scraped off the dinner plates. It was eaten by the creatures in the palmetto patch next to it. The burning barrel where you burned the newspapers. Gypsies. Door to door salesmen. Black and white police cars with huge lights on the top. The Aviation Building on 27th Ave. The DuPont Plaza when it was new. The first Burger Kings. Rumbles after high school football games. How wimpy the Palmetto, Southwest, Coral Park, and Beach High guys were.

Nike		04-Oct-2009 18:08
Don, Thanks for the clariication on the Publix. Your PBase photo at www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/117847914 provided the absolute clarification on the precise location of former Admin/IFC area. By the way, why are some "Names" in white and others in yellow? Charles

Don Boyd		04-Oct-2009 17:41
The Publix is still there in the southwest corner of NW 186th and 67th. We had to use it while the Miami Lakes Publix was flattened and rebuilt as a larger store. My credit union has a branch office next door to the 186th Street Publix and I was there a few weeks ago. It is a busy, but awful, Publix compared to the new one in Miami Lakes. How the Publix site ever became confused with the former Admin/IFC four or five blocks further east is beyond comprehension. Jeff, the Publix on Miami Gardens Drive (183rd Street in that area) that closed was in Carol City and was a mile or so east of Red Road. Don

Nike		04-Oct-2009 17:11
Whitebelt, You can see a 1970 photo of the battery at Don Boy's gallary: www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/117847914

Nike		04-Oct-2009 17:08
Whitebelt, You are right. If you Google NW 186th and NW 62nd Ave, you will be at the corner of the property. The boundries of the forme Nike Admin/IFC area which is now the Marine/Navy reserve Center, is NW 186th / NW 62nd / NW 188 Ter / NW 63rd.

whitebelt		04-Oct-2009 16:43
I have vague memories of the admin being on 186 st just west of Red Road. Google Earth shows 186 curving around a few blocks west and heading north. Miami Gardens is 183 St at Red Road and curves up to 186 St at 67 Ave.

Nike		04-Oct-2009 15:49
I got the address of a Publix located at 18496 NW 67th Ave from a list on an older website. In addition, some Nike site references have referred to the former Nike site as having been located where a Publix Shopping Center is now located. I have a documented identification that the Nike Administration and IFC (radar) area was in the exact spot where the Marine/Navy Reserves center is now located. Even if a Publix is or was located at 18496 NW 67th Ave, it still wouldn't coincide with the reserve center. Thanks for the feedback.

whitebelt		04-Oct-2009 15:28
Being set back from the road the Publix would have an address that looked a little north. Miami Garden Drive is 183 St that far west, isn't it The Publix warehouses were on Miami Gardens Dr not far west of I-10 if I remember right.

Jeff		04-Oct-2009 14:43
There was a Publix on Miami Gardens Drive that closed years ago. I thought it was at 57th Avenue, but I don't think it was at 18496 NW 67th Avenue... that sounds North of Miami Gardens Drive... but I'm not sure.

Nike		04-Oct-2009 13:58
Guest, I wasn't in Miami at the time so, I can't say. The information about the sirens came from www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=882686

Guest		04-Oct-2009 13:33
>>Coral Gables PD (the siren that went off in the middle of the night for an hour a number of years ago)<< Do you mean around 1980 or 1981? I recall that, though it was during the late news, not in the middle of the night, because they actually mentioned it near the end of the newscast. By that time people were not as much into the Cold War scenario, so there was not immediate widespread panic, but still, it was unnerving.

Nike		04-Oct-2009 13:20
If anyone lives near NW 67th Ave (Ludlam) and NW 186th St, I would appreciate a drive-by to see if there is (or was) a Publix at 18496 NW 67th Ave.

Arizona Al		04-Oct-2009 10:34
Jeff: I attended Miami Military Academy 1960-1962. During that time I became close friends with another cadet (nee delinquent youth) Jerome "Jerry" Leshnick. His father was Max Leshnick who owned the Alantis Hotel in South Beach. Besides much mischief and mayhem Jerry introduced me at the young age of 15 to the lifestyle and culture of the "Catskills South" transplanted from the Borscht Belt to South Beach. I will always remember those times! Jerry passed away in 1997 in Las Vegas. Alan Ogus. Ph.D. Alive and well and fondly recalling his "Miami Beach Connection" in Phoenix, Arizona

Nike		04-Oct-2009 10:13
Parks, I'll plan a trip (from Atlanta) to Miami during the tour season. If you (and anyone else) are available, I;ll give a personal VIP tour. For an interesting webpage on the sirens in Miami, see www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=882686. I will certainly visit the Miracle Theatre during my visit. I only wish I could walk across the street for a Jahn's Ice Cream. I guess Starbucks @ Ponce and Miracle will have to do.

Parks		04-Oct-2009 04:37
Roberta and Jeff, Wonderful poems! Nike, I look forward to taking a tour of A Battery. I think the old siren is still up on the Riviera Theater roof. It’s been a while since I looked for it so I may be wrong. I’ll try to check on it tomorrow and let you know. One little piece of old Miami has been nicely restored, The Miracle Theater in Coral Gables. It was one of those grand movie houses with one big screen that had been chopped up into several small theaters. A few years ago a theater group got control of it (bought or leased not sure). As they were converting it for live theater, they found all of the old architectural elements hidden behind dry wall. They did a magnificent job of restoration. My wife and I saw a musical there tonight that was full of music from the fifties and sixties. What a great experience to hear that music in that setting. I spent some time on my boat today off Tahiti Beach. I was looking for some crab traps I lost there a few months ago. The water was very clear and darned if I didn’t find one. I think the bay is cleaner now than I remember it in the seventies.

Jeff		04-Oct-2009 04:15
Does anyone remember the White Castle restaurants by Miami High and the 163rd Street Shopping Center? Yes... they were here for a while, but were no match for Florida's Royal Castle chain. I received this information direct from White Castle themselves... "White Castle did operate several locations in Miami, Florida from 1959 to 1967 after the founder of the company retired to the area. However, the locations were closed because the returns could not justify operating locations so far from all our support facilities."

Nike		04-Oct-2009 02:13
A list of siren locations prior to the dismantling of the system in the nineties until they were completely dismantled in 2003: North Miami Senior High Biscayne Elementary Baker Knapp & Tubbs at NE 2nd Ave and NE 73rd St Miami Jai Alai Miami Beach Auditorium Loew's Riviera Theater- 1544 South Dixie Coral Gables Homestead Power Plant Publix on NW 47th Ave and NW 183rd St (has changed names over the years) Milander Auditorium in Hialeah Publix at 11301 South Dixie (Pinecrest area) South Dixie Split Biscayne Tower (this siren was moved from the roof of the Congress Building in the '70s) Sweetwater City Hall Coral Gables PD (the siren that went off in the middle of the night for an hour a number of years ago) University Lakes Mobile Home Park Bal Harbour Village Hall St. Paul's Lutheran Church 5600 SW 107th Ave Opa-locka Water Plant Key Biscayne Elementary The Coliseum on Douglas Rd at 16th Ojus Elementary William Jennings Bryan Elementary Oak Grove Elementary

Jackie		04-Oct-2009 02:11
Some Gables/South Miami area memories: Santana Marine Allan Abess Fashions Mileo Photo Shop Hugo Hair Stylists MacDonell Orchid Gardens The Prom Shop Shultz's Snack Shop Leman Studio Thr Record Mart Daniel's Department Store Minna Lee Debs Jim's Soda Shop Tanners Food Stores B-Thrifty Food Stores Dianne Shop Sunset Drugs Huskamp Motor Company Sunland Roller Skating Rink Anthony Abraham chevrolet Zipp Sporting Goods Renuart Lumber Guy Butler's Sport Shop Dixie Gas Corp. Coronet Motors Jimmy's Hurricane Tefft's Tyler's Restaurant Carroll's Jewelers Venetian Pool

Roberta Perry Hughes		04-Oct-2009 02:06
Thanks, Jeffrey....!! That was great....!

whitebelt		04-Oct-2009 01:41
RALPH!!!!!!!! BUICK!!!!!!!! :-)

Jeff		04-Oct-2009 01:36
Yet still we YEARN for what was such Those "yesterdays" which once had been... (sorry, it should have been "yearn" in the first place...)

Jeff		04-Oct-2009 01:35
A reply poem for Roberta: A tasty "Lumdog" steamed in beer The Woolworth's ice cream sandwich treat The evening breeze and starry skies The sand and surf beneath your feet Back in a world now lost to time Our memories are both good and bad We reminisce and set in rhyme About the days that made us glad The years have changed our fair old city We picture clear some special things What's left behind is more the pity But back in our imagining We all were young and mostly carefree Life was ice cream trucks and toys All dreaming of what we'd want to then be All grown up from girls and boys The years move on we've changed so much Our hair has grayed, Our sight has dimmed Yet still we year for what was such Those "yesterdays" which once had been...

Jeff		04-Oct-2009 01:20
And yet even more memories from the Beach days... Miami Beach Lumber Yards Carnical Fruit MArket Suzanne Foods (potato knishes) Women's American ORT Thrift Store Miami Beach Community Church Thrift Store Burdine's Stewart's Toyland Giant Liquidators Tradewinds Bar Firestone Maxwell's Food Mart Lovy & Weisz Printers Jero Magon Art Studio Mayfield's Coffee Shop S.M. Ettinger, Printer Dave's Shoe Repair York Lock and Key Paul's Barber Shop Tony's Barber Shop Alton TV Forte Towers Television Forte Towers Apartments Gatti's Restaurant Piccolo's Restaurant Gino's Restaurant Randy's Seafood Restaurant (at 100 Lincoln Road - former site of Pickin' Chicken) Silver Paint Company Miami Beach Kennel Club Miami Beach Junior Chamber of Commerce Gulf Docks Blue Marlin Hotel and Bar

Roberta Perry Hughes		04-Oct-2009 01:19
Oh, sweet cotton candy, & good creme puff fluff... Inside of me, is ALL of that stuff....!! Tahiti Beach, Matheson HUMP, too... The Venetian Pool, & Crandon Zoo....!! A recipe, for yummy Conch Salad, Remembering an Alaimo ballad.... 55th Street, Southwest, Bird Road, & all of the rest.... Miami Beach....? Well, where is that...? It's near Miller Road, where WE hung our hat...!! Hibiscus blossoms, & Key Lime pie... So many memories that make my heart sigh...!! Then, there's Fowey Rocks Light, where my Grand was a Keep, And most of his family, in Cocoplum sleep. This Georgia girl's roots, in Miami are proud.... And just let me tell you, right now, & quite loud: I BELONG on this website, my recipes, & all, Never too old to learn, & Nike stands tall....!! ALL memories are important, & each has his share....!! Let's just enjoy one another's, in what is out there....!! Roberta, thanking each & every one of you "Post-A-Comment" folks, for enriching my mostly isolated life, with your colorful memories, so many & varied, to enlighten & delight....or even to frighten me....each & every time that I click on the icon in my toolbar, to connect with Our Town, & meet up with those who love her, even now, for better or for worse. I am grateful. MORE, PLEASE....!!

Jeff		04-Oct-2009 01:12
More Miami Beach stuff... Byron/Carlisle Theater Dorwin's Clothing Store The Dinghy Clothing Store The Mustang Shop Shelly's Frut Shippers Williams' Fruit Shippers Lee's Fresh Juice Bar Three Sisters Wilma of New York Flamingo Shoppes National Shirt Shops Tropix Ties Zelik's Tobacco Cobb's Corner Fruit Shippers American Savings & Loan Assoc. Hum-Dinger Hamburgers (former deli on 16th & Washington) Foremost Liquors Happy Harry's Irish House Bar Hopkins Photo Norton Tire Company Dash Door and Closer Serota Plumbing Nu-Art Signs Art-Craft Signs Reliable Rent-A-Car Causeway Ice Cream Shop Al's Restaurant Medical Arts Pharmacy Rita's Photo Studio Washington Federal Ida M. Fisher Jr. High School South Beach Elementary Central Beach/Leroy D. Fienberg Elementary Gino's Pizza at the Cameo Sundry Shop Miami Beach Sr. High School Nautilus Junior High School The Drexel School Morton Towers Howard Johnson's National Airlines Offices (41st Street) Mike's Meat Market Crown Kosher Meat Market Lamb's Laundromat Al's Pawn Shop Ross Young Wine Merchants

Jeff		04-Oct-2009 00:59
Charlis - I can't attest to any explosion near Lincoln Road in the early 60's, as I arrived down here in Oct. of 1963... (Appx. Oct. 7th starts my 47th year in South Florida!) But if you're referring to the terrorist bombing of a foreign airline's offices on Collins Avenue near Lincoln Road in the early 70's...that one I can vouch for. There was also a "warning" bomb set off in a phone booth of Alfie's News on Alton Road - just North of Lincoln Road. Alfie Mart was a notorious bookmaker and this was a retaliation for something gone wrong... Now... since once again I cannot relate to the South Dade memories that most of the posters have from their youth, I'll once again offer some Miami Beach memories for the benefit of Charlis and myself - evidently the ONLY "Beachites" on here... Hotel Pharmacy Neil's Restaurant Winkler's Five and Ten Ollie's Lum's (Lincoln Road, Collins Avenue at 23rs St., Collins Ave. at Espanola Way) Hoffman's Cafeteria Governor Cafeteria Miami Beach First National Bank Mercantile Bank of Miami Beach Miami Beach Federal Savings and Loan Assoc. Wolfie's (Lincoln Road and "21") Heaven Nightclub A&P Everglades Soda Shop Vic Potamkin Chevrolet Miami Beach Times, Miami Beach Sun, The Reporter Saks Fifth Avenue (Lincoln Road) Colony, Cinema, Flamingo, Cameo, Paris, Plaza Art, Carib, Lincoln, Beach, Surf, Sheridan, Roosevelt, Normandy, Bay Harbor Rocking Chair Theaters Curry's Patti and Sandy's Pampered Pup Snack Shop Nathan's/Nay-Ton's Fun Fair Kim's Chinese Restaurant Mama Vi-Vi's Miami Beach Radio Company Eberhardt's House of Steak Normandy Record Shop Bonfire, Place for Steak, Tony's Fish Market, Nick and Arthur's Restaurants Beach Bowl (closed in early 1960's) Beach Bagel Company The Forge Aberbach's Art Supply Jimmy's Just A Hobby (restaurant) Merchant's Green Stamps Plaid Stamps Chase Federal Texas Burger Flame Steak New Dubrow's Cafeteria Mary Jane Shoes Woolworth's, Neisner's, Kress, McCrory's Richards Jackson's/Byron's Friedman's Bakery Butterflake Bakery Big Chip's Fruit Market Thrifty's Market Lundy's Market

whitebelt		03-Oct-2009 22:59
Charlis, that could be so. My memories are they were every Saturday at 12 noon, but that is reaching back. I do remember well after the crisis the one on the Miami Jai Lai got stuck for a good long time. It didn't shut off when it should have. Had many people a bit confused and anxious for a while. Those sirens were huge and awesome.

charlis		03-Oct-2009 21:55
whitebelt... my mother's uncle told us about the siren drills... they were done monthly until the Cuban missile crisis, during that time they became a weekly event. I was there in Feb 62 and we only heard them once during the month. Moved there later that year and still only a monthly event, and in 63 they were a weekly event. Jeff can attest to an explosion at a local restaurant/store near Lincoln Rd during the later time. Everyone panicked when we heard the explosion that could be heard all over Miami Beach in the latter years if the "crisis".

whitebelt		03-Oct-2009 20:39
Those siren tests and air raid drills were going on long before the Cuban crises.

charlis		03-Oct-2009 19:08
The Cuban Missile crisis was frightening. Every Saturday at noon the air raid sirens would go off. Scared my mother as she had been through that as a teenager in Frnce and Germany during WWII. Air raid drills in school several times a month... "duck and cover" under the desks. I just moved to the Beach in '62.

whitebelt		03-Oct-2009 17:20
@Charles Knight True re being everywhere. The difference was we caught the rejects from so many of those places.

Charles Knight		03-Oct-2009 15:05
Ahh, then you have learned well Grasshopper. I jest Whitebelt, it was the same in most large cities just steamier in Miami and I'll defend my little "nation" till the bitter end! Who's with me?

whitebelt		03-Oct-2009 13:33
We can all find good memories in most places. However, the memories i have of Miami was of a tawdry, seamy cesspool of desperate and dishonest people from around the world, before and after the Cuban invasion. The good people there were as good as people can be, maintaining ethics and morality in the midst of such corruption. Miami had no class, and no real sense of community. I remember not being able to dig a hole without hitting rocks. Constantly mowing grass and trimming trees and bushes. I remember always having to keep your eyes out for trouble, of being wary of strangers, of counting your change, and watching out for cops waiting to give you a ticket for the slightest thing. Hard to not miss that. But I do miss Matheson Hammock.

Nike		03-Oct-2009 10:01
On another note, Miami brings back great memories for me -- Krispy Kreme on the Trail @ 33rd Ave, LP Evans, Tutan Dodge/Pymouth, Royal Castle @ Douglas and the Trail, Cowboy movies on Saturday morning and hory movies on Saturday night at The Trail theatre. Where the Versaille Cuban resturant now stands was The Old Mill, a local florist with pottery in the front. Auburndaale Elementry, Shenandoah Jr High, Miami High, FHP at 27th and Flagler, Milam Dairy, Hot Shoppes, Jahns Ice Cream on Miracle mile after a movie at The Miracle theatre and on and on and on. Even though I have lived in Atlanta since 1972, I never get tired of visiting my real home, Miami. See, I can talk about something else

Arizona Al		03-Oct-2009 05:44
To the Usual Suspects: As a 17year old at Palmetto High I have iconic memories of the Cuban Missle Crisis. During the events that unfolded each night on the evening news I was patently aware as a naive adolescent that something significant was taking place only 90 miles from my home. At school we wore signs that said "I would rather be dead than red" Ah the misguided but well intentions of youth. Unfortunately it was only 1 year later when I found myself humping the boonies in Vietnam helping halt the tide of the red peril into the Western Hemisphere! But that my friends is another story for another time. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Jeff		03-Oct-2009 03:13
As I'd noted, Whitebelt, I'm most certainly NOT knocking Charles for his contributions... I was simply sitting on the sidelines until my moment to jump in. Rest assured that if I had the interest in or knowledge of this subject, I would have been adding my two cents worth. As in when there was a long thread on South Miami doings, recipes or other things I cannot contribute to in a reasonable manner, I defer... Regrettably, I guess I can be considered some of the "fluff"... but that's a good thing, too... life has enough "heavy topics". Consider me the comic relief... (as I'm sure Don does... LOL!)

whitebelt		03-Oct-2009 02:38
I think Charles has brought up a heavy duty memory of Miami. A really significant one. There are lots of memories of Miami, good and bad, that we haven't delved into. So far we have dealt with mostly fluff.

Jeff		03-Oct-2009 01:41
I couldn't agree with you more, Charlis... and in deference to Charles [Nike]... I'm glad for the opportunity to respond to your thread... as I have little knowledge or interest in his field of expertise. That's not saying those threads weren't appealing to others. In his own words "I love talking about this but hesitate since it may not interest others." It's kind of like me speaking on type fonts or lettering stencils... a subject that will hold the attention only of those involved in or knowledgable about the subject. When it comes the the Cuban Missle Crisis... I was a blissfully unaware 10-year-old attending 5th grader at PS 161 in Brooklyn, NY... totally oblivious and clueless as to what the grownups of the world were doing to push out planet to the brink...

charlis		02-Oct-2009 22:57
jeff... Google is the best search engine in the world of cyber space research!!!!

Nike		02-Oct-2009 17:40
If anyone is interested in visiting one of the Nike Hercules sites, tours are conducted at A Battery January through March. A Battery is inside Everglades National Park. The missile site is on the National Registry of Historic Places. The historic Nike Hercules missile base opened to the public for the first time since it was turned over to the park in 1979. This significant historical site is physically the best overall example of the nation’s missile defense system close to Cuba and remains virtually the same as it was when official use of the site was terminated in 1979. While there are no missiles currently stored at the base, these are images of missiles that were once commonplace on this site. This missile base was built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in 1965 at the height of the Cold War, immediately following the Cuban Missile Crisis of October, 1962. At a time when national security against Soviet attack was America’s main priority, the United States Army chose this strategic site within Everglades National Park, located 160 miles from the Cuban coast, to build a missile site. The base was listed on the U. S. Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places on July 27, 2004 as a historic district. The area includes 22 contributing buildings and structures associated with events that have made a significant contribution to American history and embodies distinctive characteristics of the period. Some of the structures that are part of the tour include three missile barns built to contain 41-foot missiles (some with nuclear warheads), a missile assembly building, a guard dog kennel, barracks, control centers within berms that served as blast protection, and a number of other features. This area of the park is closed through the wet season, tours will begin again in January 2010. The tours are free, but park entrance fees apply. The only access to the former missile site is through these programs. In order to join the tour, please reserve a space by signing up at the parks Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, or by calling 305-242-7700. Reservations will be taken up to 30 minutes before each tour so make your reservations far in advance as these tours fill up rather quickly. The Ernest Coe Visitor Center is located 9 miles southwest of Homestead on State Road 9336. Tours will be by car caravan. Participants must arrive in the park by 1:30 p.m. and be prepared to drive 14 miles round trip from the visitor center.

whitebelt		02-Oct-2009 13:39
Thank you, Charles. 40kt is larger than the ones used in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. I figured there was a lot of disinformation spread to keep the peace in Miami.

Nike		02-Oct-2009 11:35
Roberta, Thanks for the interest. I love talking about this but hesitate since it may not interest others. The men were always well trained and well equipped. Practice was constant. There were daily, weekly, monthly and annual drills. Some were scheduled but many were surprises. We had to always be ready. In some cases, Battery Commanders and at least one Battalion Commander were relieved of their commands due to lees than expected performance. Don’t mistake this as not prepared, just less than expected. We were constantly being tested by the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy as well Cuban and Russian fighters. The Army conducted surveillance as Air Force or Navy fighters or Air Force KC-135s or B-52s flew east or west and returned from the southwest or south east directly towards us to appear as if coming from Cuba. Not knowing whether an incoming blip on the High Power Acquisition Radar (HIPAR) was friend or foe, we took the same precautionary measures for anything in the air: sent an “Identification Friend or Foe (IFF)” signal and locked on them with our friendly Target Tracking Radar (TTR). If the failed to respond with the correct IFF codes within a certain period and distance, we would simply wipe their slate clean. First, they got a welcoming committee. Upon the first delay in the proper IFF, we immediately scrambled a group of Navy Phantom 4-Bs from Key West NAS. They could be in Havana within four minutes of taking off on Key West. Son, that’ll out-drag a 55 Chevy with a 409. (I digress). Often, we were challenged by the Cuban Air Force fighter or a Russian fighter located on Cuba. Even though we could see every Russian missile being raised or any airplane taking off from Cuba, they still liked the cat and mouse game to test our will. They would take off and fly directly towards us directly from Cuba. We would conduct the same procedure: IFF, scramble the Navy welcoming committee and lock on with our HIPAR. Usually, by the time we locked on them with the Target Range Radar (TRR) and Target Tracking Radar (TTR) the wing nuts had them surrounded and provide an escort back to the funny farm. I can remember a couple of occasions when they weren’t responding to the Navy, we locked on a “poised and ready” Nike Hercules in the section on hot status with our Missile Tracking Radar (MTR). The (analog) computer began calculating the distance, speed and trajectory of the incoming target. In each case, they retreated back to the south before anything else happened. In one case, the Navy gave us a flyover on their way back home. What a thrill. Don’t hesitate to contact me anytime for further inquiries, comments or suggestions about the website www.Nike252.Org. You can contact me through the website or directly at NikeHistorian@Nike252.org. Nike

Nike		02-Oct-2009 11:25
Parks, You are correct -- The former D Battery launch area is where the INS Krome Avenue Detention Center is located. The section barns are now training rooms, dorms, etc. If you Google the location, you can see the outline of where the missile launchers were bolted down. You can locate all the Nike Batteries at www.Nike252.org. RE: Shooting down the Russian ICBMs: No, by the time we could fire, they would have been at an altitude, speed and trajectory away from the island, but hopefully, not yet over America. I'm honored to be an official Miami Memory Whacko. I will use the Name "Nike" in the future. Nike

Roberta Perry Hughes		02-Oct-2009 07:38
Charles...Whitebelt...Parks: Whackos...? Perhaps.....but extemely fascinating ones...!! By-the-way, Charles: I heretofore christen thee with the moniker, "Rocket Man." The former OldMiami (naive) child within me has been reading these accounts, & hanging on to every word, with a sharp intake of breath, a visible shudder, eyes bugged out, like the late Jerry Colona's, & jaw dropped to my chest....!! Such eye-opening information...! I had no idea....! More, please.....!!

Parks		02-Oct-2009 04:01
Charles, Thank you for that information. I'm fascinated by this stuff. Was Battery D located where the Krome Detention Center is now? You mention the possibility of shooting down missiles headed toward DC. Would you have been shooting at them in the boost phase as they left Cuba? I ran into problems posting also. It seemed to happen when I tried to paste a link in my comment. If you put your name into the "Name" field you'll stop appearing as guest. Sorry, you're not a Guest anymore. You're just one of the regular whackos now.

Guest		02-Oct-2009 03:23
Whitebelt, RE: Where Were the Nuclear Warheads stored for the Missiles in Miami? Regarding the nuclear warheads and C Battery in Carol City, I can easily clear that myth up. All four Nike batteries – A Battery at Everglades National park, B Battery on SR905 in North Key Largo, C Battery in North Miami off Red Road, and D Battery on Krome Avenue south of US 41 (Tamiami Trail) had nuclear-tipped missiles the entire time they were there from 1962 until 1979. Each missile battery (military company size of about 120 men) had a launch area comprised of three sections referred to as A, B, and C Section. Within each section was a section barn with four missiles. The missiles were on rails that extended from inside the barn to outside onto a launch pad. One man could push a missile to the inside or outside on the rails by unlocking a large pin on the rails even thought the missile and booster (41 feet long) weighed approximately 10,000 pounds. One missile in each section was equipped with a nuclear warhead with the remaining three with conventional (high explosive HE) warheads. So, if you do the math, each missile battery had three nuclear missiles and nine conventional missiles. Within the four missile batteries in the Homestead-Miami Air Defense Network, there were forty-eight Nike Hercules missiles with twelve being nuclear-tipped. You are correct about warheads not being stored at HAFB. It would have been impracticable to store the warheads offsite since you needed to fire within minutes. The integration of a warhead into a missile requires a disassembly and reassembly which took hours. In response to your inquiry about why nuclear warheads were necessary, it wasn’t the altitude but the size and intensity of a blast. First, a little rocket science in lay terms. A Nike Hercules conventional warhead (T-45) was a high explosive (HE) warhead which weighed 1106 pounds and contained 600 pounds of HBX-6 military explosive. The HE warhead contained 650 pounds of Composition-B as its explosive and 20,000 square steel fragments, packed in two layers around the nose part of the warhead The Nike Hercules nuclear warhead (W-31) weighed 1123 lb. The explosive yield was switchable between 2 or 40 kiloton. One of the main reasons the Nike Hercules in south Florida had a nuclear capability was because there were Russian ICBMs (Skeen 4 and Skeen 5) on the Island of Cuba capable of reaching Washington, DC and New York. Military strategists believed they were nuclear-tipped and needed to ensure the complete destruction of the weapon if fired at the United States. One nuclear warhead is capable of instant annihilation of between eight and twelve mission people and destroys everything within several miles. Another reason was to remove the possibility of the "dead man" effect of the bomb continuing to the target area even after a bomber was destroyed with a conventional warhead explosion. By placing the bomber (and the weapon it was carrying) inside a nuclear fireball would assure the destruction of the bomb. Our experiences against the SCUD missiles in the Gulf War show that missiles were successfully engaged and knocked down, but the SCUD's warheads continued into the target area, striking the ground (not necessarily where they were intended to hit) but never-the-less killing people and doing damage. Hitting a SCUD with even a low yield nuclear weapon or placing it into a nuclear fireball would have prevented this. A nuclear weapon also gave us the capability to engage more than one enemy target (if planes are in formation) with one missile. A third consideration for equipping Nike Hercules with the nuclear capability was the advantage a nuclear weapon would have over a conventional warhead in creating electromagnetic disruption; greater heat, light and blast effects and greater areas of destruction. I hope this answers the questions in understandable terms. Don't hesitate to contact me through Nike252.org or direct email - NikeHistorian@Nike252.org Charles

Guest		02-Oct-2009 02:40
All, What is the word limit for the posting to appear? Charles

Charles		02-Oct-2009 02:39
Whitebelt, I have posted a response twice today but it has not appeared. Maybe it was tooooo long. Charles

whitebelt		01-Oct-2009 11:52
Charles, I understand the Nike-Hercs could use nuclear warheads. I guess for high altitude targets. It increased the kill range. My understanding is they were kept on HAFB and would be deployed to the sites if things heated up. That didn't make much sense to me if they were to be always ready for defense. I think I recall that one or two batteries, maybe A Battery, may have had some on site. I always wondered if they had them at C Battery, which was scary due to it being the farthest from HAFB and from what I observed had the least military discipline. And also in Carol City. Are you at liberty to fill us in on just where and how they were stored?

Guest		01-Oct-2009 08:53
Jeff, Sorry, I left the website address off my last posting. It is www.Nike252.org Charles

Guest		01-Oct-2009 01:25
Jeff, Sorry, I left the website address off my last posting. It is www.Nike252.org Charles

Jeff		01-Oct-2009 00:21
If anyone used to enjoy Steve Alaimo and the Redcoats, the son-in-law of Jim ("Chris") Christy - the drummer for the band - pisted some MP3's the this site: http:// blog.wfmu.org/freeform/2007/10/365-days-291--- .html (Close up the spaces - that's how I get this link to post for me) Give a listen!

Guest		01-Oct-2009 00:17
Jeff, I have updated the Nike website. Take a look if you are interested in the former missile sites in Miami. Charles

Leighton		01-Oct-2009 00:12
I'm also a Google freak, but have learned many people have not discovered just how EASY it is to find stuff in there. (I know the regulars in here do, of course.) I almost always am successful in less than sixty seconds. Therefore, I spend hours Googling (we would have killed for that in high school, right?). Well, back to the Ken Burns PBS doc, "National Parks".........

Jeff		30-Sep-2009 23:14
No offense implied in either direction... and you didn't sound Curt... you sounded Charles (yuk, yuk, yuk)... {Sorry for the obvious pun... at least I didn't say "Know A Fence? We weren't even introduced"... OOPS! I just DID! {:cP]

Guest		30-Sep-2009 20:53
Jeff, No offense taken, no offense meant. I apologize for sounding curt. Charles

Jeff		30-Sep-2009 20:18
"Guest" threw me off. I thought you were a DIFFERENT Charles... as so many nice, kind, well-meaning people will search for information here before checking on Google... However, I must correct you. THIS was your original post: "I am looking for information about the W.T. Edwards Sanitarium, later known as Sunland Center or Sunland Training Center. It was located near NW 57th Ave (Red Road) in the Miami Gardens -Miramar area." Nothing in that thread indicated "Does anyone have any specific personal, firsthand knowledge about this place, i.e, photos, documents, experience, etc."... If it had, I would not have [unintentionally] offended you with my comments... I thought this was another "generic" question about something someone wouldn't/couldn't look up... so I did...

Charles		30-Sep-2009 19:38
Dear Jeff, Before my inquiry, I Googled the same. However, my question isn't, "Does anyone know how I can ascertaine information about W.T. Edwards TB Hospital.....," my questions inferred, "Does anyone have any specific personal, firsthand knowledge about this place, i.e, photos, documents, experience, etc." It was located near the Nike base in 1964 and later became the Landmark Training Center. I am attempting to determine the history and location of the W.T. Edwards TB Hospital. Kindest regards, Charles

Jeff		30-Sep-2009 18:43
I've said it before, and I'll say it again.... THIS is why they invented Google... History: From Wikipedia: Though information is vague, Florida archives note W. T. Edwards as an important figure in state healthcare, donating significant amounts of money to various medical facilities. When a new series of state-of-the-art tuberculosis hospitals opened in roughly 1952, they were named in honor of W. T. Edwards. The hospitals were located all over the state of Florida, including Tampa, Lantana, Marianna, Tallahassee, Miami and several other cities in south Florida. All of the hospital buildings were constructed in the same basic way. The main buildings were all very long and thin, consisting of 5 floors with a few smaller wings branching off from the main building. At the time, it was thought that fresh air was the best treatment for TB, so the buildings were riddled with multi-pane windows which could be opened by cranks. The back side of each building was a wall of windows, while the front windows were more evenly spaced apart, especially in sections that did not house patients. It is also rumored on various fanmade websites, but not confirmed officially, that the deceased TB patients were incinerated in the basement furnaces. This is quite likely, since due to the contagiousness of the disease, bodies were often burned rather than buried. This would give way to stories of hauntings in later years. When the vaccine for TB was discovered, there was no longer a need for tuberculosis hospitals and the W. T. Edwards Hospitals were all closed by the start of the 1960s. The facilities fell under the jurisdiction of the Florida Department of Health and it wouldn't take long for the hospitals to reopen as Sunlands across the state. In 1967 the hospital reopened under the Sunland system and admitted it's first ten residents. However, very early on in it's second existence, the center was plagued by a lack of funds and staff leading to rumors of neglect and abuse. The center was soon closed in 1983 where it lay abandoned until it was demolished in 2006. NOTE TO EVERYONE: If Google fails, then ask around... but don't be afraid to TRY a web search... I don't mind doing this, but I question why everyone seems to avoid Google ar first????

Guest		30-Sep-2009 18:23
I am looking for information about the W.T. Edwards Sanitarium, later known as Sunland Center or Sunland Training Center. It was located near NW 57th Ave (Red Road) in the Miami Gardens -Miramar area. Charles Atlanta

Jeff		30-Sep-2009 00:55
Of course, Leighton, and anyone who [hopefully] knows me by now realizes I'm being my usual kidding self, hence my request for "correctional fluid for blogspots"... ...at least I HOPE people aren't taking this nickname/response thing too seriously...

Leighton		30-Sep-2009 00:11
I wouldn't call it Pandora's Box, but public conversation. An occasional change of pace is not a bad thing.

Jeff		29-Sep-2009 22:20
Okey-Dokey... Gotcha, Roberta... and yes, there IS a built-in censor... it's called DON... If he feels something is way out of line, he'll delete it. Especially when I say #!!@*&!###~!

Roberta Perry Hughes		29-Sep-2009 22:12
Jeffrey.... FYI: I wasn't "admonishing" Our Webmaster, for having typed in "crp." I use those "sugar-coated" curse words....(& even more inventive phrases)....on a Fan Site that has a built-in censor. You cannot even type in the comic strip character, Dick Tracy, or the U.K. dessert, Spotted Dick. The posted words show up as * Tracy, & Spotted *. However, I discovered that, if you put a hypen, in-between the letters, it will post as D-i-c-k Tracy, & Spotted D-i-c-k. Because I have yet to see any obscenities, profanities, or slang words, on OldMiamiMemories, & Don chose to type in "crp," I figured, just maybe, this site also has a built-in censor....(?) There is nothing wrong, with typing in "cr*p," mind you; I just think "crappie" pushes the envelope a bit more, in that you can get away with it, whenever there IS a built-in censor....nothing I like better...!! Just for the record, Don....IS there a built-in censor on this site....? LARGO.....WHERE ARE YOU....??? Roberta, Survivor of the Toothpick Tornado.....AND.....from bagel bytes....(tee! hee!)

Jeff		29-Sep-2009 21:47
If you NEED to... but this is starting to become like taxes... expanding and ever-ongoing... Me and my silly comment about one little typing error with Don's name and I've opened up Pandora's box... Do they make correctional fluid for blogspots???????

Leighton		29-Sep-2009 16:51
Jeff, can we call you "Typo"??

Jeff		29-Sep-2009 14:11
Oh, "Don Boy"... I should have KNOWN you'd come up with the LAMEST nickname for me... especially since I never was a geek in high school (and my grades would have attested to that) and the closest thing you could come up with was "Bagel Boy" as a reference to my ethnic background and growing up on South Beach! YAWN! I expect BETTER from you in the wisecrack department... you could have called me "Trivial Pursuit" or "Type Cast" ( a reference to my typgraphic design work), but NO! That's OK, Don... I still like you, DESPITE your reputation! {:cP LOL!

Arizona Al		29-Sep-2009 13:52
Hey All: I do not mind a referent "Arizona Al". Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in 106 degree, yes 106 degree Phoenix, Arizona.

Don Boyd		29-Sep-2009 06:39
Sorry? Don't be sorry, Parks, because there's no problem at all with that nickname if you don't mind being Parks & Recreation from now on, Jeff doesn't mind Geeky Bagel Boy, Roberta doesn't mind Toothpick Victim and Jackie doesn't mind Wacky Jacky, etc. : ) By the way, I recently (before the blackout) added a number of photos to the 1950's gallery, the restaurants gallery and attractions gallery. I haven't had time to post here every time I add an image but Alvin Lederer is bombarding me with some great old photos as if I need even more in the backlog. Don

Jeff		29-Sep-2009 02:31
Alternate thought: @!!#~**!@!!!!!

Parks		29-Sep-2009 02:07
I think "Don Boy" is going to stick. Sorry Don.

Charles Knight		29-Sep-2009 02:02
That was a load of "schmegma"

jackie		29-Sep-2009 00:50
Oh , it's good to have "Don Boy" back with us. Sure seemed that we were shut down for ages and ages.

Jeff		29-Sep-2009 00:45
Roberta, Roberta, Roberta! Three days with the site being down and you admonish Don for saying "crp"??? Tsk! Tsk! If it were me, I'd have posted a bit of my old Brooklyn heritage for all the world to see and relish... LOL! I think Don used a lot of reserve in just saying "crp". Besides, no reasonable adult who has lived over 50 years would even consider those sugar-coated euphamisms for curse words. If they felt their language might be too strong for a mixed environment, they'd either avoid the language itself or... at the least... say some foolish [but acceptable] toned-down phrases like "son-of-a-sea-cook!", "horse puckey!", "shoot" or "goldangit"... I couldn't EVER see mysdelf using such a term as "feces-donkey"... To put it mildly, that would make me seem like a real "Richard Cranium"...

Roberta Perry Hughes		29-Sep-2009 00:00
Don....Don't say cr*p....say crappie....that's a fish....!! Fantastic to see our OldMiamiMemories up & running again...!! I was checking several times a day, on into the wee hours...!! How I have misses you, & the Post-A-Comment Club....!! Parks...You're very welcome, re: Crunch & Des...!! We watched them all the time, in the early '50's, & also, Whirlybirds, with Kenneth Toby....!! Remember them...?? Back to Our Host, "Don Boy" Boyd: Some more of my "getting-away-with-printing-dirty-words" collection..... --female-dog --male-offspring-of-a-female-dog --bio-degradable-bovine-frisbee --fecal-matter --feces --feces-donkey --donkey-orifice --heap-of-feces --fork-ewe --chicken-spit

charlis		28-Sep-2009 22:53
Yippeeeeee! Missed you all. Jeff will attest to my next statement... timing. The building I work in had a power outage at the same time! Thought Don and friends worked where I did ;-) ... but got home, after waiting hours in the heat, to find our website was up and running. Glad you are back.

Guest		28-Sep-2009 21:20
Glad you are back up....I was having withdrawal symptoms!!!! Ted

Jeff		28-Sep-2009 21:00
You know... I LIKE that typo better than "Don Boyd"... "Don Boy"... one of the Waltons... LOL!

Jeff		28-Sep-2009 20:59
Welcome Back, Don! At least [for the moment] they're on a new server with appropriate protection against this happening again... We shall see... I just happened to check the site after finishing some online work... but I know there's others who have been going through "Don Boy Withdrawal" having not been able to post to your blog...

Don Boyd		28-Sep-2009 20:54
Holy cr*p, that was by far the longest outage of PBase since I started the first site with them in June 2002. It's never been more than a few hours before and it's been years since that has happened. I can't wait to read the forums on PBase with people complaining like hell about the outage. Welcome back everyone. Don

Charles Knight		28-Sep-2009 17:38
They're baaack!

Parks in river rat mode		24-Sep-2009 04:01
Roberta, Thanks for the Crunch & Des suggestion. I actually have a copy of one episode on VHF and will use it as a short at one of our movie nights. It wasn't filmed in Miami but it was supposed to take place here. In fact one of our group knows I have it and asked if he could show it. It wasn’t until about ten years ago that I found Phillip Wyle’s books. My friend Pete loaned one to me and I was hooked. Pete was a mate on charter boats back in the late sixties and early seventies. He actually knew Phillip Wyle. I grew up with the characters in the books. My father’s friends were all boaters. Capt. Art Crimmins was a hero of mine when I was growing up. He could have been the inspiration for Crunch. Art and his beautiful wife Peggy ran the charter boat Traveler all through the Bahamas in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Capt. Crimmins was a man of character that is rarely seen today. One time he needed a new engine for Traveler. The engine was big money and he didn’t have the cash to pay for it. He told my father he needed the engine. My dad got the engine for him on just a hand shake and there was never a doubt that he would pay for it. I loved to just stand near my dad and Capt. Art and just listen to their stories. In 1973 Sports Illustrated did a story on Capt. Crimmins. If you google “Art Crimmins” you’ll find it in the SI archives. It’s a good read.

Jeff		24-Sep-2009 02:04
Charles Knight... Your right, in a way about the Champs... Glen Campbell did some studio work on many of the tracks. Chuck Rio (now deceased) was the founder of the group, and it's his voice saying "Tequila" on the recording. Jimmy Seals played tenor sax and Dash Crofts played the drums, but they joined the group in the early 60's. They were not founding members. Interesting sidebar to this: The "A" side of the record was "Train to Nowhere"... and that's where it went. After some disc jockeys flipped the record over and discovered "Tequila", that side took off... This little quirk happened to an Everly Brothers record as well as a number of other 50's and 60's tunes... originally considered the "throwaway" sides of the platters. Sometimes, even a recording session ends up with a "time killer" that was never intended to be releaesed, but turns out to be a monster hit. The producer of the group "Steam" (Paul Leka) wrote a bit of junk [or so he thought] that now earns him tons of royalties from its original radio airplay to sporting events --"(Na Na Hey Hey) Kiss Him Goodbye" "When a Man Loves A Woman" was recorded at the end of a Percy Sledge session "on the fly"... and it became a phenominal hit... Even a demo record not intended for release "Let's Turkey Trot" by Little Eva took off. The problem here was that Gerry Goffin used another song for structure and meter ("Little Girl of Mine" by the Cleftones). He told Dimension Records' owner Don Kirshner than he would come up with original music shortly, but Kirahner went ahead and released the demo as a single. Needless to day, they had to reach a settlement with Herb Cox (of the CLeftones) who wrote the original tune...

whitebelt		24-Sep-2009 01:53
Well, Jeff, in that case I won't do it. I shut it down. I personally think I should be paid for having their radio waves pass through MY air and body without MY permission.

Jeff		24-Sep-2009 01:53
Charles Knight... Your right, in a way about the Champs... Glen Campbell did some studio work on many of the tracks. Chuck Rio (now deceased) was the founder of the group, and it's his voice saying "Tequila" on the recording. Jimmy Seals played tenor sax and Dash Crofts played the drums, but they joined the group in the early 60's. They were not founding members. Interesting sidebar to this: The "A" side of the record was "Train to Nowhere"... and that's where it went. After some disc jockeys flipped the record over and discovered "Tequila", that side took off... This little quirk happened to an Everly Brothers record as well as a number of other 50's and 60's tunes... originally considered the "throwaway" sides of the platters. Sometimes, even a recording session ends up with a "time killer" that was never intended to be releaesed, but turns out to be a monster hit. The producer of the group "Steam" (Paul Leka) wrote a bit of junk [or so he thought] that now earns him tons of royalties from its original radio airplay to sporting events --"(Na Na Hey Hey) Kiss Him Goodbye" "When a Man Loves A Woman" was recorded at the end of a Percy Sledge session "on the fly"... and it became a phenominal hit... Even a demo record not intended for release "Let's Turkey Trot" by Little Eva took off. The problem here was that Gerry Goffin used another song for structure and meter ("Little Girl of Mine" by the Cleftones). He told Dimension Records' owner Don Kirshner than he would come up with original music shortly, but Kirahner went ahead and released the demo as a single. Needless to day, they had to reach a settlement with Herb Cox (of the CLeftones) who wrote the original tune...

Jeff		24-Sep-2009 01:43
That opens up a can of worms, Whitebelt. As a former employee of the music industry, I should let you know that if anyone can access and download your files, you can be held liable for music piracy, and the fine is hefty... starting at $100,000... Yet, if folks can only LISTEN to the tracks, without you having purchased licenses from BMI, ASCAP and SESAC, you risk suit for unauthorized broadcasting of copyrighted material. Better let the satellite radio stations and those willing to risk the fines and/or imprisonment play in that snake pit. As a graphic designer I believe very much in the sanctity of copyright. For those who say "What's the big deal? The record companies have too much money anyway!" my answer is this: Creative people have just as much right (if not more) to earn all they can from their talents. Not every song author is a Carole King, Neil Diamond or Elton John - with a vast catelog of self-penned material to earn from... Some were one-hit wonders or were lucky enough to scrounge up a few hit songs. Same with performers. The small royalty checks they earn are their privilege, and NO ONE has the right to deny them their income... It's like putting in a 40 hour week and somebody else gets your paycheck and deposits it into THEIR account... ...and when I hear "$15.98 for a CD? The record companies are ripping us off"... that's just plain ignorance! First of all, $15.98 is the suggested list price. Most retailers will discount the CD. Secondly, the CD wholesales for $8.00 to the DISTRIBUTOR... He [or she] in tourn charges anywhere from a small markup to a couple of dollars to the reseller. Of that $8.00, the record company NEVER sees any money until the CD is sold and PAID FOR by the distributor. At that point, the manufacturing and shipping costs (appx. $2.00) come off the top... that leaves around $6.00. Then the artist and/or producer get their royalties. Let's say $2.00 in the case of a medium-selling artist. Now we're down to $4.00. Each track on the album must be licensed from a publlisher and a royalty paid on it's use. Let's simplify this with 10 tracks at 10 cents per track licence... another dollar. OK... we're at $3.00 now. Factor in office renatl, studio tie, promotion costs, postage, overhead, etc. and if you're lucky, your record company makes a whopping $1.00 on a $14.95 [suggested list] album. The profit comes from a CD being a hit... but how many CD's are released each year that tank? Take all of the gross revenue of a SONY, BMG on CApitol and deduct the BAD releases... their profits, while still fairly large, and diminished greatly by all of the "stiffs" in the marketplace. CD's sell on a "consignment basis". There's an old joke in the industry... It shipped gold.... but came back platinum" (Meaning they got back more CD's that they shipped out!) If you factor in how many millions of dollars those "one songs" losses from file sharing, bootlegging and unauthorized downloading cost the industry, it amazing that ANYTHING is recorded anymore... After all, it can cost up to $100,000 to record a "name" act...

Charles Knight		24-Sep-2009 01:30
He he he! I'm 52 and you folks make me feel young! I know almost all of those songs but they WERE before my time. Jeff, The Champs featured Glen Campbell and Seals and Crofts.

whitebelt		24-Sep-2009 00:35
We have a lot of the same songs, Jeff. I am trying to figure out how to open my MS Skydrive to the public. Have almost 500 pre-1964 songs on it. Plantation Boogie, Poor Boy, the Chordettes, and a bunch more from the mid-late fifties. Flying Purple People Eater, too. :-)

Jeff		24-Sep-2009 00:15
Then there's the Rock and Roll instrumentals on my other CD's: "Tequila" - The Champs "Rebel 'Rouser", "Cannon Ball", "Peter Gunn" - Duane Eddy "Miserlou" - Dick Dale and the Deltones "Memphis" and "Wham!" - Lonnie Mack "Smokie, Part 2" - Bill Black's Combo "Hide Away" - Freddie King "Walkin; with Mr. Lee" - Lee Allen "Walk, Don't Run" - Ventures "Harlem Nocturne" - Viscounts "Wiggle Wobble" - Les Cooper "Apache" - Jorgen Inmann "You Can't Sit Down, Part 1" - Phil Upchurch Combo "(Ghost) Riders in the Sky" - Ramrods "The Lonely Surfer" - Jack Nitzsche "Tuff" -Ace Cannon "Honky Tonk, Part 2" - Bill Doggett "Slow Walk" -Sil Austin "Red River Rock" - Johnny and the Hurricanes "Exodus" - Eddie Harris "Green Onions", "Time is Tight", "Hang 'Em High" - Booker T. & the M.G.'s "Sophisticated Strut" - Young-Hot Unlimited "Wild Weekend" - Rockin' Rebels "Wipe Out" - Surfaris "Pipeline" - Chantay's "The Happy Organ", "Rinky Dink" - Dave "Baby" Cortez "Nut Rocker" - B. Bumble and the Stingers ....and there's more scattered across other discs...

Jeff		24-Sep-2009 00:02
Back to some of the instrumental music in my collection: "Theme from the Man with the Golden Arm" - Richard Maltby "Melancholy Serenade" - Jackie Gleason (the theme from his variety show) "Theme from A Summer Place" - Percy Faith "Near You" and "Autumn Leaves" - Roger Williams "Canadian Sunset" - Hugo Winterhalter (the opening notes were "borrowed" for the opening of Mary Wells' "My Guy") "Mambo Jambo" - Dave Barbour "The Crazy Otto" - Johnnie Maddox "Yakety Sax" - Boots Randolph "Washington Square" - The Village Stompers (the same meoldy used for the Gospel song "Tone the Bells") "Yellow Bird" - Arthur Lyman "More" - Kai Winding "The Stripper" - David Rose "Stranger on the Shore" - Mr. Acker Bilk "The James Bond Theme" - Billy Strange "Fly Me to the Moon Bossa Nova" - Joe Harnell "A Walk in the Black Forest" - Horst Jankowsky "Midnight in Moscow" - Kenny Ball & His Jazzmen (based on the classical "Moscow Nights") "Watermelon Man" - Mongo Santamaria "Calcutta" and "Baby Elephant Walk" - Lawrence Welk "The Magnificent Seven" - Al Caiola (a/k/a the "Marlboro Country" theme) "Java" and "Cotton Candy" - Al Hirt "Walk on the Wild Side" - Jimmy Smith "Desafinado" - Stan Getz/Charlie Byrd "The 'In' Crowd" - Ramsey Lewis Trio "Mission Impossible" - Lalo Schifrin "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" - Hugo Winterhalter "Batman Theme" - Neal Hefti "Tonight", "Exodus" - Ferrante & Teicher "Music to Watch Girls By" - The Bob Crewe Generation "No Matter What Shape (Your Stomach's In)" - T-Bones "Classical Gas" - Mason Williams

charlis		23-Sep-2009 22:12
old memories... remember the yearly family schedule to watch the "Wizard of Oz" every year on TV? Today is the 70th anniversary of the release! They are going to reissue the movie, improved again, on DVD later this year. My family always made plans to be together when the movie was on TV... before I got married, after I got married and had my own child... to this day I watch the movie. And then there is "Ben Hur" and the "Ten Commandments" that shows every year around Easter.

charlis		23-Sep-2009 22:05
jeff... mystery Fields... never mind... just remembered... the reason is wild. I was putting my stuff together for work, putting it in to a bag... a tote bag... she was Totie Fields!

charlis		23-Sep-2009 22:01
jeff... mr trivia, when mine fails... Irving and Peppy... what was the name of the loud comedienne back in the 60's with the same last name? She was often on Merv's or Mike's shows. No relation to Peppy and Irving. Speaking of Merv and Mike... those shows were great... talk shows did not focus on weird things... like what came out today... McKenzie Phillips was raped by her dad, John Phillips of the Mama's and the Papa's... to be featured on Oprah... which used to be a good show.

charlis		23-Sep-2009 21:54
jeff... old music... "Sing, Sing"Sing"... the drum solo knocked you off your feet! Benny Goodman was great, as were Glen Miller, Louis A, etc. A lot of the music you could not dance to, you just had to stand around and listen to it. The funny thing that I have found, when talking to young people, is that young people today (if exposed to it) like the music of the 40's and 50's. That was a great era.

charlis		23-Sep-2009 21:40
Roberta... love the piano story. When I was still in OH I did the "I can fly like Superman" thing... swing real high and then jumping off the swing. I sprained my wrist. My aunt, an accomplished piano player, asked my parents to let me stay with her for a week... during that week she had me playing the piano for a few hours a day... exercise. I still have, after over 50 years, one of the lesson books. When I moved to the Beach, I had a piano teacher... an older woman who had lost her left arm in an accident. Her method of teaching was using the guitar chords in music books. My first song? "Autumn Leaves"! I graduated to real music a year later... but it was classical... "Fur Elise", Greig's "A Minor Concerto". I still have that music book. She died the next year... the last two songs are the only classical I can play, without using the chord method. She had been a music teacher at one of the schools on Miami Beach in the 50's. Oh, I still have the piano.

charlis		23-Sep-2009 21:29
jeff... thanks for the links. I've been to some Fields' website and emailed, included pics of the albums... never got a response. Peppy was a riot. We'd run in to each other at the Food Fair on 41st and she would give us all big hugs, tell us what Irving was doing, when he was going to be in town. Like I've said before, back then, in the 60's... celebrities were real people. You would run into them anywhere, at any time... they were not "full of themselves".

Leighton		23-Sep-2009 15:17
Roberta, Only 39 episodes (one season back then - imagine that!) and filmed on Darrells Island, Bermuda (as well as other Bermuda locations). Produced by NBC, but sold into syndication (as no network sponsor could be attached, according to one source).

Jeff		23-Sep-2009 14:32
Now, as long as we're talking about non-rock music... here's some of MY favorites: "Sing, Sing, Sing" - Benny Goodman (co-written by Louis Prima - and to me it is the 30's equivalent of funky!) Bert Kaempfert's "Afrikaan Beat", "That Happy Feeling", "Tootie Flutie", "Wonderland by Night" - amongst many others Billy Vaughn or Bert Kaempfert "A Swingin' Safari" "Swinging Shepherd Blues" - Moe Kaufmann "Topsy, Part 2" - Cozy Cole (although it charted on the pop charts, Cole was a jazz drummer) "(Theme from) Route 66" - Nelson Riddle "Peter Gunn", "The Pink Panther Theme", "Days of Wine and Roses", "Moon River" - Henry Mancini "Summer of 42" - Peter Nero "Manhattan Spiritual" - Reg Owen "The Poor People of Paris" - Les Baxter "Lisbon Antigua" - Nelson Riddle "Petite Fleur" - Chris Barber's Jazz Band "Moonglow/Theme from Picnic" - Morris Stoloff "Tea for Two Cha-Cha" - Warring Covington & the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra "So Rare" -Jimmy Dorsey --these are but a few in my collection - I may list a few more, but didn't want to run the list too long this time out...

Jeff		23-Sep-2009 14:19
from www.tvacres.com/boats_cabin_poseidon.htm: Poseidon - Charter fishing boat on the maritime adventure CRUNCH AND DES/SYN/1955-56. The Poseidon was based in the Bahamas and owned/operated by partners Crunch Adams (Forrest Tucker) and Des Smith (Sandy Kenyon). The series was also known as CHARTER BOAT and DEEP SEA ADVENTURES. The TV series was inspired by the classic saltwater fishing adventures of "Crunch and Des" written in the 1940s by Philip Wylie. Crunch & Des, the heroes of these warmhearted Florida-based stories, chase sailfish, tarpon, barracuda, sharks, and even giant jewfish. As one reviewer said, "their adventures inspired generations of followers." Years later, Wylie's daughter, Karen Wylie Pryor, reissued a thoughtful collection of her father's stories. In her introduction she writes: "For the reader about to breathe Wylie's velvet air, hear the chug of charter boat engines, and cross the bridge of indigo-blue of the Gulf stream for the first time...I envy you." ...and THAT'S why they invented GOOGLE!!!

Roberta Perry Hughes		23-Sep-2009 09:47
Parks...Wasn't the old early TV series, Crunch and Des, filmed in Florida? Miami, in fact? They had a fishing boat. Crunch was played by the late Forrest Tucker; cannot recall who played Des, though..."Golly gee, Beav'!" I was only about 5 or 6+ years old, when that was on TV...!

Roberta Perry Hughes		23-Sep-2009 09:41
Oh, y'all...! Don't forget Roger Williams...! Loved to hear him play "Autumn Leaves!" I have a huge CD collection of his work, & play it often, during chores. I also love Mike Post, who did a lot of TV themes, such as Mad about You, & all of the one-hour prime time cartoons, featuring the Peanuts gang, & Charlie Brown. Then there's Marvin Hamlisch, who performed The Entertainer, for the film The Sting. Laugh all you want to, my very favorite pianist/entertainer/showman, was the late Liberace. When he was on TV, in the early '50's, he looked so angelic, when he was performing. My sister & I used to fight, over who he winked at, when he first came on the air. My mother adored him, & my father took her to see him in concert, at the Miami Beach Auditorium. She was on Cloud Nine for weeks...! I play the piano, also, but I play by ear...trouble is, my hair keeps getting caught in the keys....! LOL In truth, I "play at" the piano. I can do a mean Heart and Soul.....tee! hee! And Chopsticks is my specialty...LOL One of my favorites, for easy listening, is Nelson Riddle's orchestra. I had all but forgotten his music, til I watched Wrestling Ernest Hemmingway...(another great Florida movie, Parks!) & the portable radio at the beach played Lisbon Antigua, & the late great Richard Harris danced with a little girl, to that instumental music. I immediately ordered a CD, with it on there, among other works, such as the theme from Route 66. (Parks! There was a Route 66 episode filmed in Weeki Wachee Springs! It was about a mermaid. So, there's you another one to show!).

Jeff		23-Sep-2009 00:51
Charlis, you'll be happy to know that Irving Fields is still alive and well at the age of 94! For those of you not in the know, his sister (Peppy) did a radio talk show from the Sea Isle Hotel at 30th and Collins on Miami Beach in the 60's & 70's... her birth name was Rosalind Schwartz... Irving was [obviously] Irving Schwartz. Here's a link to his site: www.irvingfields.net Peter nero is now 75. His real name is Bernard Neirow Here's his site: www.peternero.com/

charlis		22-Sep-2009 22:53
If I hear that Peter Nero or Irving Fields have died, I will be devasted. Yes, I play the piano, still have my first one from the 50's. I met Irving in the mid 50's in OH, and often saw him when he visited his sister in Miami Beach, often playing at a place near the library during the 60's. Peter... met him at the Beach Auditorium. Again, got to go backstage... played the piano with him. Joked about my father always finding chores for me to do when I was practicing. Said that I had the perfect pianist's hands... an octave plus. A few years later Peter was doing a "signing" at Jordan Marsh on Biscayne. I was working there at the time... about 8 months pregnant. He looked at me, said... "I see you are still not practicing the piano." I looked at him... "We met a few years ago after a show, played the piano together... something about your father..." I have an autographed pic of him.

charlis		22-Sep-2009 22:42
Ferrante... I heard the news on the way to work this morning. I was dating that other nerd at Beach when they performed at the Beach Auditorium. We got to go back stage and meet F&T... I actually got to play the piano with them! Seeing them on stage was great, but seeing them play up close was amazing! Roberta... please send fall down here! It's hot, muggy, and raining! I want to open up my windows!

Guest		22-Sep-2009 15:49
Whitebelt, Good to hear from you. I have updated the website with many photos over the past two days. Was Donny Keenum a tall slow-talkin guy? I think he was a B Battery the same time I was 64-65. Do you have contact with any Nike vets? Any pictures? You can email me directly at NikeHistorian@Nike252.org Charles Charles

Jeff		22-Sep-2009 14:33
Roberta, you forgot their lovely rendition of "Tonight" from West Side Story. In my guess, Ferrante and Teicher were the longest working musical partnership of our generation... together since the late 50's. The older we get, the more icons we lose. For proof, anyone watching the Emmy Awards saw quite a long memorial segment. Some of those we've lost (and noted there) were Gale Storm, David Carradine, Michael Jackson, Walter Cronkite, Patrick Swayze, Larry Gelbart (former actor and creator of "MAS*H), Don Hewitt (the creator of "60 Minutes")... and this is just the part of the litany that immediately comes to mind...

Roberta Perry Hughes		22-Sep-2009 10:22
Sad news to report: Musician & composer Arthur Ferrante, of the incomparable twin pianos duo, Ferrante & Teischer, passed away, at age 88. I still have my old 33 1/3 albums by them. Will probably play them, all day, on my stackable Crosley record player. Theme from "The Apartment," theme from "Midnight Cowboy," "Exodus," "Lawrence of Arabia," "Cleopatra," the list goes on & on, & these two wonderfully awesome talented musicians enchanted people of all ages, with their perfection, at the piano. Their music was jaw-dropping. Even teenagers were perked up, by the beauty & skill of their performances. Good Journey, Mr. Ferrante. Heaven's orchestra has gained an invaluable member.

Roberta Perry Hughes		22-Sep-2009 09:55
Guest...Some of the local trees have leaves that have turned, or are turning. We get mostly yellow, some orange, not as much of the red leaves......but all are in the yard, of course...! Re: Fawlty Towers sign letter-changer....my favorite one was...Farty Towels. Then, there was the one that said...Flowry Tw**s. (ahem)! LOL

Guest		22-Sep-2009 07:12
You are correct, Doulton can be seen clearly with glasses. Sad to say I must wear them. There is an outlet in south Georgia. However, I collected lovely ladies, china and a tea set from family members traveling there. My oldest daughter is planning her three week vacation in December, She plans to tour London, attend a concert New Years Eve and have a pint or more of ale. Have the leaves changed?

Roberta Perry Hughes		22-Sep-2009 06:04
Guest....Mrs. Bucket's figurines were Royal Doulton. I own a tea service by that company, but long for one by Royal Albert, or Haviland...(sigh). Always loved it, whenever "the Major" puts moves on Hyacinth Bucket. She would rather die, than to tell a soul about his advances. (I'm sure, hubby Richard, would be more amused, rather than offended, by such overtures on his wife). The amusing sign letter-changer, at the beginning of Fawlty Towers, is the highlight, of that Britcom, but who doesn't just love John Cleese...? Wasn't there a short-lived sitcom set in Miami, some years back....? Wonder if it is available on DVD...?

Guest		22-Sep-2009 05:58
Just to add to my last comment. Mrs. Bucket also known as Hyacinth was played by Patricia Routledge. She is 80 years old and still does theater. "Keeping Up Appearances" and "Victar of Dibley" are favorites of mine too. The BBC1 and the BBC gold are still showing the reruns.

Guest		22-Sep-2009 05:47
Jeff, Oh, how I love that show. I have watched the BBC for years. Some of my favorite British characters from an all time favorite. Mrs. Bucket and her Royal Dalton figurines. Her sister Rose, middle aged sex kitten. Sister Daisy and her husband who doesn't seem to have a job. Daisy lives through her love novels. I am a proud supporter of Public Television.

Jeff		22-Sep-2009 04:39
I just learned that Wendy Richard (who played Miss Brahms) died four months before Mollie Sugden after a third bout with breast cancer... She was 65.

Jeff		22-Sep-2009 04:12
This is just my personal opinion - and it doesn't mean that I'm either right or wrong... I'm just yakking here... Joe Robbie Stadium...Pro Player Stadium...Dolphin Stadium...Landshark Stadium... I'm not a sports fan... and the way the current owner of the team has been selling off chunks of the ownership in the Dolphins to "celebrity partners"... I'm glad I'm not a sports fan! However, "that's my opinion and I'm unanimous in that"... [RIP Molly Sugden]. "Are You Being Served" is one of the BEST British sitcoms to be shown here in the States, and there's too few of the original cast still surviving (Trevor Bannister "Mr. Lucas", Nicholas Smith "Mr. Rumbold", Frank Thornton "Capt. Stephen Peacock", Wendy Richards"Miss Brahms", Mike Berry and a few others... The show takes place in a London department store (Grace Brothers), and the ensemble cast are the employees of the men's and ladies' departments who [begrudgingly] share the same floor... I do believe I've seen every episode, and what's interesting it that they lost the original color print of the first show, so you'll only see it in a black and white version... It was originally supposed to be a vehicle for Trevor Bannister as Mr.Lucas, but the late John Inman's portrayal of the sexually abiguous [but you KNEW he was gay] Mr. Humphries made him the real star. Inman played the role to a "T" (he way gay in real life), but never as a put-down to gay lifestyles... more like a wink and a nod to those who could laugh along with the character. The most famous "tag line" of the show would be considered by many as follows: CAPT. PEACOCK (The Floorwalker) "Are you free, Mr. Humphries?" HUMPHRIES (in a lilting, sing-song reply): "I'm freeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

Ray		22-Sep-2009 03:11
Landshark? Until I get a check in the mail to say otherwise, it's Joe Robbie Stadium! About sodas, remember New Coke? My theory was that they did that to give us time to forget cane sugar Coke. Then when they came out with old Coke it was really an even newer formulation to use the cheaper sweetener. Don, from the main page it looks like you added a new section since this one moved over one to the right. Which one is new? Sorry to report Mrs. Slocombe actress Mollie Sugden pased away in July. Hopefully someone has taken care of her pussy. (If you're not a fan of "Are you being Served?" trust me, that's not offensive.) Vanilla... did you know it's from the only ediable orchid? I don't think it was a SoFla drink, but I fondly remember YooHoo, bottled just down the street from Opa-locka airport. I have passed the new Nike web site info to another group of long-time Miamians. Excellent someone is documenting this. About geek verus nerd. I was in my school's safety patrol AND AV club... do I qualify for both? Anyone remember those stylish clip-on orange sash things we wore? Drive-ins. Large video projectors are coming down in price. If you know a big white wall somewhere in your town, you could almost do a sort of drive in night. Hopefully a big white wall, projector, small FM radio station modulator... could be fun to try. A few years ago a few of us set up a video projector at a levy along Tamiami Trail. We sat around a bonfire duing the winter and watched movies on a screen made from opaque shower curtains strung between two trees. The projector was behind the screen and it was quite effective. Even if you can't do the drive in on a wall, that could be a fun back yard thing when the weather gets better. Enough for one posting.... take care Ray

Charles Knight		22-Sep-2009 02:37
It's halftime at Landshark Stadium and the Fins / Colts game is tied at 13 all!

whitebelt		20-Sep-2009 23:50
Nice site, Charles. Hope a bunch of vets of those sites stop by. You may see if you can get it listed on classmates.com. I was assigned to the 31st Arty, but attached to the Miami-Homestead Signal Team, primarily as the guy who tracked down those at the batteries who made long distance calls on the government dime. I was the stepchild in that outfit, so I also did the dirty work. I was on a compassionate reassignment with a signal MOS. When I entered the HQ building I stepped into the Signal Office for directions. Capt Billy Quinn saw my MOS and the next thing I knew I was attached. I understand after I left they created a slot for my MOS there. I was there in 70-72. All I know is a year later orders for Vietnam came up again and I was ready to get out of Homestead, but they were cancelled due to the war winding down. Finagled an assignment to Norway, but that was changed at the last minute and I got sent to Turkey. After many years of reading Jack Kofoed in the Herald about the status of forces treaty there, I was somewhat apprehensive about it, but I loved the country and the people there. Would go back in a heartbeat. Homestead AFB was a nice looking base. My son was born there. Cost me $7. :-) I had a fishing buddy named Donny Keenum who was stationed at A and D batteries. Donny was a snake magnet. He got bit 3 or 4 times by pygmy rattlers. Seems they liked to lurk in the launchers. Knew a supervisor in the crypto room who was a Hawk man during the Cuban Crisis, in the tent days. He claimed to have killed a Cuban who climbed over the fence, I believe in the Old Cutler area. He said he was on guard duty and the guy kept climbing the fence after he was told not to. A shotgun stopped him. I haven't heard any other account of such a story.

Charles D. Carter		20-Sep-2009 19:17
Nike Missile Sites in Miami - I have had several inquiries about the Nike Hercules and HAWK missile site located around Miami and Homestead. I have recently developed a website which has links to all the Nike Hercules sites. The website is www.Nike252.org. In the next few weeks, I will have links to all the HAWK sites. For more specific information, you can contact me at NikeHistorian@Nike252.org. Chales D. Carter Nike Veteran 1962-1965

charlis		20-Sep-2009 16:13
yum.... Necco Wafers... loved the chocolate! The only minty candy I ate as a child was the GSA Thins Mints. Come to think of it, it's still the only way I get my mint fix. I still have, somewhere around here, some of the old stencils. I even have something where you cut out the letters and then stuck them where you needed to. Have not seen those around in a long time. The computer age has helped get rid of a lot of things... like photo dark rooms.

charlis		20-Sep-2009 16:04
Charles... yes, it was birch beer. But the OH girl still calls it rootbeer. The A&W was good too. They had a place across for the north campus of Miami Dade JC and Evie and I often stopped by during the hot months on our way home from classes.

charlis		20-Sep-2009 16:00
Don... yes, it is Peter O Knight. And the CG station has not moved. Get to see the choppers go out all the time. As to the old airport in Dayton with the steep runway... Why was it steep when we are all used to flatter runways? I was coincidently watching an animal show yesterday and one segment was about snowy egrets who take off in to the wind... it helped give the early highspeed jets extra lift for taking off as it was faced in the direction of the normal wind patterns.

Don Boyd		20-Sep-2009 06:56
Charlis, is that small private airfield that you mentioned Peter O. Knight airport on the south end of Davis Island? If so I lived two blocks north of it, a block from the main ship channel, from the end of 1967 to 1970 when stationed downtown with the Coast Guard. The most exciting thing there was Jim Walters' Lear Jet landing or taking off there with barely enough runway but it was fun to watch the small private aircraft. MacDill AFB was really hopping back then because they trained pilots on F-4 Phantoms there during the Vietnam War and they were always flying over to Avon Park bombing range on practice bombing runs. The old terminal still existed at TPA and it was replaced shortly after I left to return to south Florida. On the soda thread, the Fanta birch beer served at Arnold's Royal Castle on NW 7th Avenue tastes just like the birch beer that Royal Castle used to serve. Unfortunately they don't serve it in the frosted mugs like RC used to do. Don

Jeff		20-Sep-2009 02:45
Well, as long as we're talking about soda... I've already mentioned about how US soda bottlers stopped putting real ginger in "ginger ale" years ago... Likewise, root beer is no longer made from true root extract... Orange Crush and Nesbitt's [if they're still around] no longer have bits of real orange in them... Cream soda is no longer made with real vanilla - yet A&W root beer still uses some aged vanilla in its recipe (go figure)... In fact NONE of the sodas we grew up with taste the same because of recipe formulation changes and the substitution of high fructose corn syrup for cane sugar (a cost-cutting measure)... yet high fructose corn syrup is worse for you... Hey, what IS the same as it used to be? Most of our favorite foods [both healthy AND junk] have had numerous size changes over the years... Old favorites disappeared as sales slumped, only to be replaced with brands for the next generation (most prevalent in cereals)... Think of it... how long has it been since you've seen a box of Kellogg's Pep, a vending machine with Vernor's Ginger Ale... Necco Wintergreen Mints... Old London Cheese Waffies or Melba Toast (Old London was purchased by Wise Snacks)... Post Critters with Orange Moose or Quake Cereal (creative, those cereal folks!)... Then again, we could do a whole litany of "lost brands"... Nifty Notebook Paper Steel City Paper Clips Stenso or E-Z Letter Lettering Guides (stencils) Forster's "World's Fair Brand" Toothpicks Glass Wax Lestoil Disinfecting Cleaner ("It's so easy when you use Lestoil") Meyercord Decorative Decals Duz Detergent Fluffo Shortening Coates & Clarke Thread [they MIGHT still be around] the old gasoline brands: Atlantic, Richfield, Cities Service, Sinclair, Billups, Thoni's, Shamrock, Amoco]...

Roberta Perry Hughes		20-Sep-2009 02:20
Charles...Yes'r...'Twas good ol' Birch Beer, at the Royal Castles. How we loved it...!

Charles Knight		20-Sep-2009 01:41
Royal Castle...Wasn't it called "Birch Beer" or am I confusing it with somewhere else?

charlis		19-Sep-2009 16:43
jeff and don.... airports. I spent the first 10 years of my life (minus 9 months in France before my parents moved back to the States) in Dayton. 4 of those years was in the shadow of Wright Patterson AFB. (We called the public airport "Left Patterson"). Many weekend afternoons were spent in the backyard watching the planes doing manuevers. They even had a museum of aviation there where you could go inside of the various models of planes since aviation began. Got back there in the mid 80's after 20 years. Dayton had expanded so much that the museum section was surrounded by tall buildings. The sloped runway was being used for the famous go-cart races! You could look at the planes but not go inside them. Up here in Tampa, my view from my desk at work is of MacDill AFB (get to see a lot of practice maneuvers over the bay, a small private plane airport, and the Tampa International AP. Love watching all the types of planes coming and going.

charlis		19-Sep-2009 16:32
Vernors... continued... the timing of the memory on this site is really weird. We were talking about our favorite drinks as kids at lunch everyday. Someone mentioned Vernors, I mentioned Royal Castle rootbeer, someone else mentioned the beer and the hot dogs at Lums (yes, there was one up here in Tampa during the late 70's and early 80's... drove by the place where it was this morning... the building is gone.)

charlis		19-Sep-2009 16:25
ahhhh, Vernors ginger ale... The only other soda I drank besides Pepsi. When I took those summer trips to NYC as a child, ginger ale was the only soda in the fridge. It was also part of my father's cure for a sore throat. He would take me or my sister in to the bathroom and swab our throats with iodine. The he would make fresh popcorn (really fresh as his brother grew it!), add a lot of salt and serve it hot with ice cold Vernors. It worked! The next morning the sore throat was gone. The reason? Seems the popcorn would scratch the throat allowing the iodine to get closer to the source of the sore throat. The ice cold ginger ale would numb the sore throat and the salt would help seal the sore throat source since the salt stayed in your mouth. I told this to other people and they say that they had the same thing done to them when they were kids. I agree that Vernors has changed. Years ago, many years ago, I dug up an old recipe and it called for ginger ale. I bought Vernors, and drank what was left in the bottle after adding some of it to the recipe... one zip and I put it down the drain.

Jeff		19-Sep-2009 02:48
AHH... Leave it to my friend Don to character assassinate me... With friends like that, who needs an enema? Hey, Don... If I HAD bought that DVD you're drooling over, I think it's much more normal to buy it for the sublimminal reasons you exhort that I would than for aerial footage of an airport! LOL! Well, folks - we now know Don Boyd's deviant preferences... show him an airport and he's breathing heavy! Heheheheheh!!! Touche, Don!

Don Boyd		19-Sep-2009 02:45
I missed this story about the last Lums closing back in July and was just given a link to it: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-lums-davie-closes-070309,1,7786316.story Don

Don Boyd		19-Sep-2009 01:44
Jeff, you were a nerd in high school? I'm absolutely stunned. Not! Another movie filmed in Miami, "Girls Come Too" released in 1968. It contained nudist camp footage from 1963's "Nature's Sweethearts" with total nudity filmed in 1968 because of the Supreme Court's decision that nudity in itself is not obscene. All I remember was the great aerial footage of a young couple in a convertible driving from the then 4-year old Miami International Airport 20th Street Terminal to the nudist camp on the west side of NW 27th Avenue a few blocks north of the Palmetto Expressway. I recently bought the DVD for the old Miami footage, unlike what Jeff would have bought it for, but I haven't viewed it yet. RIP Mary Travers of Peter, Paul and Mary. Their early 1960's version of Pete Seeger's "Where Have All The Flowers Gone?" was undoubtedly the inspirational force for Pedro, Paulo and Maria's "Where Have All The Gringos Gone?" in the 1980's. The only words I remember are: "Where have all the gringos gone? Long time passing, Where have all the gringos gone? Long time ago ...." Where have all the gringos gone? Packed and moved every one When will they ever learn? When will they ever learn?" Don : )

Jeff		19-Sep-2009 00:26
"Another GEEK"??? Charlis, I am offended.... I was a NERD in high school, NOT a Geek! {:cP I'd had no idea of your hearing loss - so sorry to learn of this. My condolensces... email will suffice under these circumstances. Roberta... my pleasure to "shake the memory tree". Until I found the lyrics, I didn't know that the song was from "The Dirty Dozen"... I'd simply heard it as a kid and liked it. Case in point: Everyone knows Wayne Newton's two biggest records "Danke Schoen" and "Daddy, Don't You Walk So Fast"... When I was about 15 (1967) , WINZ starting re-running the old radio show "The Shadow"... so I used to listen to some of their music broadcasts as well - which was in the MOR ["Middle of the Road"] format. They used to play a song called "Dream Street" by Wayne Newton... and I'm probably the only one who remembers it! I recall part of the lyrics: If you're walking down Dream Street Some sunshine day Say hello to my Rosie She's got a smile like new-mowed hay [That is, meaning a fresh smile... at least, that's what this 40+ year old memory recalls as lyrics!] About Vernor's Ginger Ale: I USED to love it! That is, back in the 60's when they were the last company to still use REAL ginger in ginger ale instead of caramel color and substitute flavors... Back when I was a regular soda drinker I switched to Jamaican Ginger Beer, because that's was ginger ale USED to taste like! Even Vernor's has now gone the corporate route of cost-cutting. While Vernor's still might taste better than the competitors, they ALL taste like crap compared to the snap and bite of a REAL ginger beverage! That's my opinion... [and, as Mrs. Slocombe would say on the Britcom "Are You Being Served?"]... and I am unanimous in that!

charlis		18-Sep-2009 21:23
gang... me and jeff... trust me, nothing going on. When he was at Beach I was already dating another geek, and working there doing my teaching internship or substitute teaching... ;-) jeff.. sorry about the email... got involved with a few things... and I am deaf so emailing is easier... deaf from working on stage with all those great bands in the 60's.

Guest		18-Sep-2009 20:25
Roberta, I bought Vernor's in Lawrenceville, GA. I have no idea if you are near there but happy hunting.

Roberta Perry Hughes		18-Sep-2009 19:44
Jeff...Thanks for the update on Trinidad ("Trini") Lopez, III. Glad to hear that he is still with us, & that he is working. I now remember "The Bramble Bush" from that movie, but had forgotten it, until you brought it up...! Thanks, for the memory jog...! Parks...Unfortunately, Vernor's Ginger Ale is not available in Georgia. We used to put vanilla ice cream in it, for a float.

Parks (the other Rat)		18-Sep-2009 04:17
Thanks Roberta, those are great ideas for movie foods. I love Vernor's Ginger Ale. Have you ever tried it with half a key lime squeezed into it? It's the best drink ever. Rat, Wind Across the Everglades is a must for our group. Thanks for the tip. Everyone in our group has read Totch Brown's book so we'll put up a prize for who ever can spot him in the movie. I know, I'll print up a Totch Brown Wanted poster when we show the movie. Charlis, good movie tips. Was Surfside Six a half hour show or a full hour?

Jeff		18-Sep-2009 04:04
Roberta... Trini Lopez is still alive and well and working... Aside from those two hits, I've always enjoyed a song he recorded called "The Bramble Bush"... I found the lyrics online: THE BRAMBLE BUSH From the film "The Dirty Dozen" (1967) (Frank De Vol / Mack David) Trini Lopez - 1967 The bramble bush is lovely, it fills you with delight The flowers on the bramble bush are all so pink and white But if you reach to pluck one, as sure as you are born The bramble bush will stick you with it's prickly thorn And the pretty girl is like a bramble bush Yes, a pretty girl will thrill you very much Oh, a pretty girl is like a bramble bush But you'll get stuck if you should touch The girl I fell in love with was such a lovely sight So beautiful to gaze upon, so soft and pink and white And as I reached to kiss her, beneath the summer skies I was so much in love, I didn't realise That a pretty girl is like a bramble bush Yes, a pretty girl will thrill you very much Oh, a pretty girl is like a bramble bush But you'll get stuck if you should touch The summer soon was over and autumn chilled the sky The flowers on the bramble bush began to fade and die And with the faded flowers, my true love travelled on And I can feel the thorns now that my lover has gone But the pretty girl, yes, is like a bramble bush Yes, a pretty girl will thrill you very much Oh, the pretty girl is like a bramble bush But you'll get stuck if you should touch Oh, the bramble bush Yes, the bramble bush Oh, the bramble bush Yes, the bramble bush

Roberta Perry Hughes		18-Sep-2009 03:58
Parks....Frozen corn dogs are available, now, in most grocery stores. A staple at the Drive-In movie's concessions stand, they are wonderful, with mustard slathered up one side & ketchup down the other...!! They heat up nice & hot, in your oven.... Also, you can buy pistachios-in-shell, so you heat them up, & put them in plain brown paper sacks...just like at the Drive-In...! Let everyone get the red fingers, once again! Or...you can get them shelled, too, of course. What about making some iced lemonade, similar to what was served in those bubbling machines, at the counter...? The other one was a tropical punch-like brew. Fried onion rings would be good, & hamburgers all-the-way, with lettuce, tomato, & onion, & hamburger dills, & wrapped in waxed paper...a slice of cheese, optional. Ice cold Hires rootbeer, too, & Vernor's Ginger Ale, are good retro Movie night beverages. Though I cannot be there, in person, you'd better honk your horn, I'll be there in spirit....!! Great to know that I would be welcomed, however...! Many thanks...!! Jeff...Whatever happened to Trini Lopez...? He also sang "If I Had a Hammer," as well as "Lemon Tree." Roberta, soon to be buying some corn dogs, & making some homemade cheeseburgers, for a Movie Night of our own...!

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 23:57
Charlis... You never did email me a phone number [you were going to about a week back]. I wanted to discuss a couple of things that I'd rather not post online or in a email. (No, any rumor mongers out there - this is nothing tawdry, secretive or sensationalistic to this... just some things about some mutual people we know I need to discuss in depth without going nback-and-forth with email maessages!)

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 23:54
More sad news to report as time keeps ticking by... Mary Travers (of Peter, Paul and Mary) passed away yesterday after a five year battle with leukemia. She (along with Peter and Paul) will always be remembered for their versions of Pete Seeger's "If I Had A Hammer", John Denver's "Leaving On A Jet Plane" and Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind" and their own "Puff the Magic Dragon" and "The Wedding Song (There is Love)"...

charlis		17-Sep-2009 23:18
Hole in the Head, The Bellboy, Goldfinger, and Surfside 6 all filmed at the 'Bleau or Miami Beach. Also some scenes from "Thunderball".

charlis		17-Sep-2009 23:06
jeff... Deep Throat... info says released in 1972. I remember some movie being filmed on Miami Beach when I was still at Beach... I had walked over the bridge near the heart institute, having missed the "O" on my side of the bridge, only to be told that we had to walk to the other stop as they were filming a movie on Prairie and 46th. When the movie came out I was dating Ed and had a ball watching the old farts as they came out of the theater and listening to some of the comments. We got married in '72 but saw the movie before that. Something is not correct as to the dates.

charlis		17-Sep-2009 22:57
gang... thanks for the info on "spoofing"... the book is therapy for depression. It will not be published, just distributed to friends. And, anyways, people mentioned, including celebrities, were friends... many of them now deceased, unfortunately.

charlis		17-Sep-2009 22:46
jeff... Jackson... from what I can remember, it never had a good rep.

Miami River Rat		17-Sep-2009 22:12
Re: South Florida movies; Lets don't forget the 1958 epic, "Wind Across the Everglades" starring Burl Ives. It was filmed in Everglades City and in the SW everglades. I was present for some of the filming. Three people I knew, Totch Brown, Brad Bradford and the indian Corey Osceola had bit parts in it. Charles Knight, your brother Jack knew Brad, who was a reptile buyer in Miami. I caught some of the snakes used in the movie and sold them to Brad, who in turn sold them to the movie company. (probably for ten prices) Anyway, I was 15 years old at the time and it was way cool seeing Burl Ives and other movie types up close and in person. Me, my grandpa and other Florida folk sure did have some laughs at those "foreigners" trying to deal with the mosquitoes out there. The "swamp angels" were in full force at Everglade and Chokoloskee back in '58!

Guest		17-Sep-2009 18:04
sam kay / louis chessler

Guest		17-Sep-2009 17:58
sam kay purchace club

Guest		17-Sep-2009 17:55
sam kay

Charles Knight		17-Sep-2009 11:50
Parks, what you saw is probably the aftermath of"Donna" in 1960, 13 foot storm surge in the Keys, it was flooded in our neighborhood in Sweetwater.

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 05:18
You're more than welcome, Parks... Hurricane Betsy was in 1965. It was my second hurricane experience (after Cleo). We were only here in Florida going on two years, and in those days we used to open the windows on the opposite side of the apartment from the winds. Nowadays, we know better. I'll never forget going outside after the storm and seeing parts of palm trees blown off, debris all over the street, and farther down Lenox Avenue - pieces of white plexiglass from the shattered Colony Theater sign (where they listed the current features)... I was all of 13, and this was quite the experience!

Parks		17-Sep-2009 04:54
Jeff, Thanks for all the Everglades! info. I’m sorry I brought up the song, I can’t get it out of my head either! I thought the name of the episode we saw was Blackbeard but I don’t see it on your list. I’m guessing it was Black Honeymoon. The story was about newly weds who honeymoon in the Everglades. The wife and Vale start to think that the husband, played by Jack Cassidy, is going to kill her. That ran in Febuary of 1962. We saw obvious hurricane damage to the mangroves in the show. Would that have been from Betsy? I can't keep them straight, but Jeff will know! Roberta, you would be most welcome at Florida Movie Night. So far we have served movie theater food. Bill and Becky hosted the first event and served popcorn and sodas. I think some beer might have appeared also. Next it was Susan and my turn. I down loaded and printed copies of the movie posters for the movies (Nude on the Moon, and Miami Blues) we were going to show. The posters (small) were posted next our front door so our guests saw them as they arrived. We served movie theater candy, popcorn made with coconut oil, sodas and beer. Snapper and his girl friend served a bigger selection of candy, popcorn, sodas, and assorted booze. Their movies were “Vernon, Florida” and “Blood and Wine”. Darrell and Cindy were up next. Darrell added hot dogs to the movie food mix. Their movies were “Everglades!” and “Only the Strong”. Back to Bill and Becky, they added nachos. Their movies were a “Sea Hunt” episode and “Mean Season”. Susan and I are up next. I don’t know how we’re going to improve on the food. It’s starting to get out of hand!

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 04:11
Nothing to be sorry about, Charles... I just put all that "Lincoln Vail" information out there so I'd put that topic to rest... I can still hear that former friend chiding me for not knowing the show and singing the tune [off key] over and over... Auuugghh!!!!!!!

Charles Knight		17-Sep-2009 04:04
I am embarrassed to say it is Ron Hayes in the photo, I have no idea where I got Ron Ely from other than it may be because Ely is both my Father's and Brothers actual first name. Oops, sorry.

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 02:14
Postscript: Ronald G. Hayes (February 26, 1929—October 1, 2004) [1] was an American television actor who as an activist in the environmental movement, worked for the establishment of the first Earth Day, observed on April 22, 1970. He was a member of the Sierra Club and a founder of the ecological interest group Wilderness World. [2] In his acting career, Hayes appeared primarily on westerns, but he also had starring or recurring roles in several series, including The Everglades, The Rounders, and Lassie.

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 02:10
Last, but not least (to wrap this up)... Ron Ely was NOt the star of "Everglades"... it was RON HAYES! Everglades Cast Members: Ron Hayes ............... Constable Lincoln Vail Gordon Cosell ........... Chief Anderson Episodes List With Original Air Dates The First And Only Season The Escape (10/9/1961) Heat In Town (10/16/1961) Greed Of The Glades (10/23/1961) Primer For Pioneers (10/30/1961) Angry Town (11/6/1961) The Photographer (11/13/1961) Deadfall (11/20/1961) Lie Detector (11/27/1961) Flight At Boca Chico (12/4/1961) The Experts (12/11/1961) Good Boy (12/18/1961) The Long Walk (12/26/1961) The Brand (1/1/1962) Young Osceola (1/8/1962) Force Ten (1/15/1962) The Running Target (1/22/1962) The Hostage (1/29/1962) Black Honeymoon (2/5/1962) Edge Of Panic (2/12/1962) Emergency Treatment (2/19/1962) Final Hours (2/26/1962) River Of No Return (3/5/1962) Friday's Children (3/12/1962) Rowboat Teacher (3/19/1962) Curtains For Kocomo (3/27/1962) Fatal Information (4/3/1962) Killer In Calico (4/10/1962) Keene's Choice (4/17/1962) The Perfect Crime (4/24/1962) Unwanted ... Dead Or Alive (5/1/1962) The Stranger (5/8/1962) Hideout (5/15/1962) Price Of Evil (5/22/1962) A Day's Occupation (5/29/1962) The Rookie (6/5/1962) The Four Day Weekend (6/12/1962) Appointment With Death (6/19/1962) The Expedition (6/26/1962)

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 02:07
correct url: tvtunesonline.com/lyrics/action_drama.asp

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 02:04
Just found this at tytunesonline.com/lyrics/action_drama.asp: The Everglades ("The Everglades" by Harlan Howard) In the Everglades there's a way of life It's a way of peace without stress or strife. There's a fellow there who protects these rights Lincoln Vale of the Everglades. The man on patrol in the Everglades. But they'll fight for rights and the homes they made Simple grass roots people of the Everglades. There's a natural danger and the man to face Lincoln Vale of the Everglades. The man on patrol in the Everglades. Movin', ever movin' through the Everglades. Movin', ever movin' through the Everglades. Movin', ever movin' Movin', ever movin' through the Everglades. Back to Top

Jeff		17-Sep-2009 02:01
From Wikipedia: Ronald Pierce "Ron" Ely (born June 2, 1938) is the stage name of the American actor and novelist born in Hereford, Texas. He is best known for having portrayed Tarzan in the 1966 NBC series Tarzan. He got the role after playing various bit-parts, including an airplane co-pilot in the 1958 film South Pacific and a guest-starring role on Barbara Eden's first television series, the romantic comedy, How to Marry a Millionaire. Ely's height (6' 4") and athletic build also won him the title role in the 1975 Doc Savage film, as well as various guest shots: In a 1978 Fantasy Island episode, for example, he played Mark Antony in a Roman military short tunic and breastplate that displayed almost as much of his physique as his Tarzan costume had. In the 1980s, he starred in the series Sea Hunt and hosted the musical game show Face the Music. Additionally, he hosted the 1980 and 1981 Miss America Pageants - replacing longtime host Bert Parks. In the 1990s, Ely’s roles included a retired Superman in the 1991 two-part episode "The Road to Hell" of the Superboy syndicated television series, and a big game hunter named Gordon Shaw in the 1992 episode "Tarzan the Hunted" for the syndicated Tarzán TV series (starring Wolf Larson). In recent years Ely has embarked on a successful writing career and has penned two mystery novels featuring private eye Jake Sands: Night Shadows (1994) and East Beach (1995). Ely holds the unique distinction of being the only actor to have portrayed three of the most iconic characters in American popular culture of the 20th century: Doc Savage, Superman, and Tarzan.

Joanne		16-Sep-2009 23:30
Ron Ely married Palmetto HS alumni Valerie Lundeen in 1984. She was also Miss Florida in 1981. She and I were on the Palmetto Drill and Dance Team together. Also knew both her older brothers, in fact dated one briefly in 1974.

jeff		16-Sep-2009 18:59
Ron Ely! He played Tarzan in the mid-60's TV series!

Charles Knight		16-Sep-2009 11:49
I've got a black and white 8 1/2 by 11 photo of Ron Ely and my brother (both in Ranger costume) beside an airboat on the set of The Everglades.

Jeff		16-Sep-2009 05:49
LOL! Roberta... are you a "closet caterer"? Perhaps all they're having are chips, dips and beer! A former friend back in jnior high used to drive me crazy singing that theme song..."Lincoln Vale of the Everglades, the man on patrol in the Everglades." He couldn't believe that I didn't know the show. It must have been syndicated, 'cause I sure don't remember it being shown in New York before we moved down here... and by then it was off the air.

Roberta Perry Hughes		16-Sep-2009 05:15
Parks...Another short you could use would be the episode (or episodes?) of the TV series, U.S. Border Patrol, starring the late Richard Webb. I wish I could attend one of y'all's Florida Movie Viewer Nights. Sure does sound like a lot of fun....!! What do you serve, at those functions? Perhaps: -shrimp cocktails on a tray, or shrimp-based canapes? -assortment of tropical fruits? -Guacamole? -deviled crab? -fried 'gator tail? -perhaps a sit-down seafood buffet dinner, prior to Show Time? Do you do themes...? Oh, do tell us ladies! Will you have a centerpiece, of exotic seashells, & featuring a spray of hibiscus, or orange blossoms? Describe your evening, in detail, so that it will be as if we are there, among you...!

Parks		16-Sep-2009 03:49
It didn't post as I typed it but you can figure it out. The first title on a line is the short and the second is the feature that was shown that night. We have four couples in our group. My wife and I are #2 in the rotation so we are up next.

Parks		16-Sep-2009 03:42
Thanks Guys! Great movie suggestions. I think the Gentle Ben episodes will make great shorts to show before the feature. The shorts are harder to come up with than the feature. One of our group used an episode of the tv show Everglades! as his short. "Lincoln Vale of the Everglades, the man on patrol in the Everglades." Here is a list of what the group has shown, I hope it posts ok. Short Feature: Movie: The Ochopee Skunk Ape Swamp Thing (not really Florida) Nude on the Moon Miami Blues Vernon, Florida Blood and Wine Everglades!, Blackbear Only the Strong Sea Hunt, Astronauts The Mean Season

Leighton		16-Sep-2009 00:31
That came up a while back...

whitebelt		15-Sep-2009 19:08
No one has mentioned Goldfinger?

Leighton		15-Sep-2009 18:54
Yes, IMDb shows some other states, as well, for "Gentle Ben" filming - I knew it wasn't exclusively Miami. However, I do remember seeing them film in Sweetwater one time. That's what got me to buy the lunchbox as a six-year-old. I also had a Flipper box, as well.

Charles Knight		15-Sep-2009 18:16
Leighton, Gentle Ben was shot all over South Florida with Many exteriors in and around Sweetwater. My brother Jack did a lot of stunt work on that show and other Ivan Tors productions.

Leighton		15-Sep-2009 18:14
Hmmmm, "Bellboy" or "Hole" for that opening shot......I should know that. I would have said Lewis. However, weren't the pool shots in "Hole" shot at the Fountainbleau - that large pool party scene? I know that the small hotel was the Cardoza (sp?). IMDb lists the Fountainbleau only with "Bellboy," though. I haven't seen the latter in decades.

Jeff		15-Sep-2009 17:10
You're welcome, Leighton... I saw that film eons ago, and what blew me away was a line that went kind of like this: "Your car is at the Norton Garage. You can pick it up later from there." The reference was to the Norton Pallot Tire Co. Garage at 15th and Alton! The coolest thing was seeing the stock footage shot on location... the two detectives driving East down 15th Street in Miami Beach (I used to live near 15th and Lenox Avenue) and seeing the Flamingo Hotel in the background. Nobody knew it at the time, but within 6 years (1960) Carl Fisher's Flamingo Hotel would be replaced with the modern Morton Towers twin apartment buildings... and here, all these decades later, a THIRD tower sits on the front parcel - blocking even the view of the original buildings... Since the 60's we have slowly become "New York by the Bay".... nothing but concrete and steel towers are far as the eye can see. Whatever happened to the idea of Miami as being a Tropical Paradise? Easy answer: one DIRTY word: DEVELOPERS! (I place them on the same level as TV lawyers, hustling car salesmen and phone solicitors... For the moment, I'm getting my movies mixed-up. Either Jerry Lewis' "The Bellboy" or Frank Sinatra's "A Hole in the Head" had a great areial opening shot... the Goodyear Blimp "Ranger" flying over the Fontainbleau. I'm leaning toward it being the Sinatra film...

Leighton		15-Sep-2009 15:46
Jeff, thanks for heads up on "The Miami Story" (1954). I love the late 40s noirs, and the early 50s crime dramas (not the same thing), because they really utilize location filming. Some really gritty, low-budget films, with just-as-it-is backdrops. Great for historical reference. This one has Barry Sullivan, who starred in so many of these genre films. You just never know what you're going to see, in terms of locale. Caught one of his earlier films, "Tension" (1949), filmed in LA, and was shocked to see major scenes filmed at a best friend's apartment! (Cool, early 40s Modern, behind 20th Century Fox.) Although the interiors were obviously a sound stage, they recreated the interior exactly as it is - unusual. I immediately called my friend, who switched on TCM, and nearly flipped out to see his place - sixty years ago. Sad to say, the still-beautiful place is targeted for demolition, but the recession has held it up.

Leighton		15-Sep-2009 15:16
"Gentle Giant" was a 1967 feature, with Vera Miles and Dennis Weaver, before it became the immediate series "Gentle Ben," without Miles (both from Ivan Tors Productions). I had the lunchbox in first grade (1969) - the series lasted two seasons.

Charles Knight		15-Sep-2009 15:11
Leighton, I agree. Admitting in print (or otherwise) that a character is based on a real person opens up a can of worms. Charlis, perhaps you should seek permission at this stage. It may make life much less complicated later.

Leighton		15-Sep-2009 14:59
Good grief, I totally forgot that I worked with Swayze on the film "Parent Hood," in San Antonio. (Not to be confused with "Parenthood.") He was a very nice guy, from what I witnessed - I was the film location coordinator for the city (assistant to the film commissioner, which I later became). One of Halle Berry's first starring roles (1993). Back in Miami (1984), when they were filming "The Mean Season," a UM film school buddy and I snuck on the filming set at Joe's Stone Crab. When a PA attempted to kick us out, my friend brazenly stated that his father was the owner. It bought us another thirty minutes. We later watched them film at that old Spanish Colonial-styled school on Ponce, in the Gables, north of Alhambra. (I hope it's still there.)

Jeff		15-Sep-2009 14:59
If you can find it, "The Miami Story" - an early 1950's flick about gambling and the Kefauver Commission - has some great locations shots... then there's "Birds Do It" with Soupy Sales, "Ace Ventura, Pet Detective" with Jim Carey, "Tony Rome" with Frank Sinatra, "Flipper" and/or "Flipper's Big Adventure" with Luke Halpin, Tommy Norden and Brian Kelly... ...and for the more adventurous "Deep Throat" starring Linda (Murciano) Lovelace... There's shots of Biscayne Boulevard in North Miami and along Alton Road on Miami Beach... The movie itself sucks [literally AND figuratively]... but it's worth watching to see the old Voyager Motel exterior and Grand Union in North Miami...

Leighton		15-Sep-2009 05:58
Headed to Lake Lure, NC again. Being that the Inn runs "Dirty Dancing" in a continuous loop (it was filmed there), I'm sure that Swayze's dying will garner some attention. I just hope it's not maudlin. "The Mean Season" and "Absence of Malice" are additional Miami flicks with great location filming. It's probably best not to put in writing (anywhere) that a novel's character is actually based on a real person, no matter how obvious - kinda renders the usual "disclaimer" of "purely fictional" somewhat pointless.

Roberta Perry Hughes		15-Sep-2009 05:21
Parks...Featured Florida films: The Yearling; A Hole in the Head; Hoot; Wrestling Ernest Hemmingway; Where the Truth Lies...to name a few for you...

Jeff		15-Sep-2009 03:52
Two topics that came across tonight's news... First, actor Patrick Swayze passed away this evening after his long battle against pancreatic cancer. Second, Jackson North (the former Parkway Hospital) was just blasted by two doctors who work/worked there - citing poor conditions and a shortage of nursing staff. They consider this the most dangerous hospital in the country. It comes in the wake of a pending lawsuit against Jackson North by the family of a woman who died of cardiac arrest after waiting FOUR HOURS in the emergency room to see a doctor... So much for "Miami Memories"...

Parks (the other Rat)		15-Sep-2009 02:30
Rat, you're going to love Dorsey's books! His main character, Serge A. Storms, is obsessed with Florida history. You might as well start with the first book in the series “Florida Road Kill”. The next one I’ll read is “Atomic Lobster” followed by “Nuclear Jellyfish”. Then I’ll be ready for “Gator A Go Go”. Next month my wife and I will host Florida Movie Night at our house for a group of friends. We usually try to show a short and a main feature. The short I have lined up is called “Last Night at the S&S Diner”. I’m not sure what feature to show. The choices of good Florida movies are endless. Any suggestions?

Miami River Rat		15-Sep-2009 01:50
Author Tim Dorsey: I'd lost track of him. He's an Auburn grad that used to write for the Alabama Journal, a Montgomery newspaper that I subscribed to. He was a very good newspaper reporter. I didn't know he'd gone into writing Florida novels, I'll have to get a couple of his books and check his style out.

Jeff		15-Sep-2009 00:47
Charlis... I take it that Dwayne Buchran performs at the Corral [instead of the Barn] and his back-up band are the Seaside Gliders instead of the C.C. Riders? Yeah... you can steal those from me if you find them funny enough... Maybe I should try my hand at a book as well ... I'd showcase deli sandwiches from Foxy's (Wolfie's), listening to DJ Dick Shea (Rick Shaw) and watching the evening news featuring Powell Fenwick (Ralph Renick)... You know, I could twist names all day... but it wouldn't even buy me a bowl of "shicken zoop"....

charlis		14-Sep-2009 22:15
Charles... the Dorsey books are great! Thanks for the info.

charlis		14-Sep-2009 22:14
Gang... I am up to about 200 pages. It is funny... based in part on my life on Miami Beach in the 60's. Wayne Cochran is called Dwayne Buchran. Jimmy Dunlap is called Jamie Duflap. I have warped the names of a lot of people during the time. I have to add one of the main characters meeting Murph and getting involved in one of his scams. The character is very inept at everything he does. Basically the story involves a young man who finds out that his grandmother lied to him. He has a twin brother on Miami Beach. When his grandmother dies, he heads to Miami Beach. The "2nd Floor" where I worked with Evie is put out of business by a person who gets all the important people to come by his/her club. The owner choked on a gefilte fish ball at his ordaination as a rabbi and wakes up in the hospital thinking he is woman because he couldn't understand the way the cuban nurses pronounced his name. He has a very successful club. The rest of the main character's family are all disfunctional. I will let you know when I am done. I don't know if I can get it published, but I will let you know when it is done and email you all copies.

Jackie		14-Sep-2009 21:13
Charlis, Keep us posted on the progress of your book. Sounds great.

Charles Knight		14-Sep-2009 04:07
You go Charlis!!! I'll buy a copy, you'll keep some signed for your friends here to purchase right? On a related note the new Tim Dorsey book "Gator a go go" will be released in late Jan. or early Feb. I recently signed a release allowing Mr. Dorsey to use me as a character and my family's bar "Gator Hook Lodge"in it. He was somewhat vague as to what role I play but hopefully I won't be portrayed as too much of a deviant LOL! Those of you that have read Mr. Dorsey's previous books know that would not be too far fetched. But seriously Charlis...I look forward to your book so please DO let us know when it's due to be released.

Miami Girl		14-Sep-2009 00:01
Charlis, make sure you let us know when the book is published!!

charlis		13-Sep-2009 20:49
Largo... SOMETHING! This site has been great. I am writing a book that takes place in the 60's and this site has helped me with a few facts for the book. It is a spoof that Dave Anderson lved the synopsis of many years ago. Finally getting around to working on the book.

Jeff		13-Sep-2009 02:07
OK................................ "something" {:cP

Charles Knight		13-Sep-2009 00:55
Shhhh! Just kidding! Will someone please say something???

LARGO		12-Sep-2009 17:55
WOW!!...I HAVE NOT LOGGED ON IN AWHILE...THIS LAST MONTH WAS JUST FULL OF SO MUCH GREAT OLE MIAMI STUFF THAT I'VE JUST BEEN READING IT ALL...LOVE ALL THE 'SIDE ROADS' YOU ALL GO DOWN..SUCH GREAT MEMORIES TO BE SHARED BY EVERYONE...TO THE REGULARS..FROM THE BEGINNING...ROBERTA, CHARLIS, JEFF, AL, ETC......AND ESPECIALLY TO YOU MR. DON BOYD...THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO TO PULL SO MANY OF US TOGETHER TO SHARE MIAMI MEMORIES....AND TO ANY NEW FOLKS WHO HAVE JUST LOGGED ON......I KNOW..I KNOW...I USE ALL CAPS...BUT I AM REALLY NOT YELLING AT YA....HOPE THIS FINDS YOU ALL DOING "VERY" WELL.....................AS EVER, LARGO

Charles Knight		11-Sep-2009 01:05
Yeah I do...What a fruitcake that guy was, murder Inc. LOL! Now that's my Miami!

whitebelt		10-Sep-2009 21:50
Charles, you should remember the Army Surplus store there, which later became the Yahweh temple.

Charles Knight		10-Sep-2009 04:48
When I was thirteen years old I worked for a guy named Tony that owned a pawn shop on 77th and 27th in Liberty city. He lived in Hialeah and had a yard full of Van DerCar sculptures, I mean they were everywhere! Later on my sister Bonnie dated Lewis for a short time and I got to know him (a little), he was quite the character. I never saw him after 1975 but there was a massive Dragon sculpture here on Merritt Islands southernmost point that fell apart a few years back, today you can still see the ruins from the Eau Gallie Causeway in Indiatlantic to this day.

Jeff		10-Sep-2009 00:32
Speaking of colorful people... how about Lewis VanDercar? He was an artist, scuptor and renowned practical joker. Remember his "roc eggs" which were actually garbage from his back yard sealed in plaster? He used to run wacky ads in the Herald, such as: "Electric Car $25,000 - extension cord extra"... VanDercar passed on in 1988, but was quite the local legend. There's a nice article about him on miamiblogspot.com. Just do a Google search for Lewis VanDercar...

Jeff		10-Sep-2009 00:08
from Wikipedia: Jack Roland Murphy or Murph the Surf (born 1938 in Los Angeles, California) is a surfing champion, musician, author, artist and convicted murderer who was involved in the biggest jewel heist in American history at the American Museum of Natural History. Today Jack Murphy is an ordained minister, working with inmates in the field of prison ministry. He was involved with a robbery on October 29, 1964, of the Star of India along with several other precious gems, including the Eagle Diamond and the de Long Ruby. This robbery was called the "Jewel Heist of the Century." It targeted the J.P. Morgan jewel collection from the display cases of New York's American Museum of Natural History. Murphy had cased the museum earlier and discovered from a 17-year-old visitor that security was lax to non-existent. The burglar alarm system was non-operational, and a second story window in the jewel room was usually left open to aid in ventilation. The thieves climbed in through the window and discovered that the display case alarms were non-functional as well. The stolen jewels were valued at more than $400,000. Murphy and both his accomplices, Alan Kuhn and Roger Clark, were arrested two days later and received three-year sentences. The uninsured Star of India was recovered in a foot locker at a Miami bus station. Most of the other gems were also recovered, except the Eagle Diamond, which has since been hypothesized to have been cut down into smaller stones. Richard Duncan Pearson was also convicted. The heist was the subject of a 1975 movie, directed by Marvin Chomsky, called Murph the Surf. The movie starred Robert Conrad, Burt Young, and Don Stroud (as Murphy). In 1968, he was convicted of first-degree murder of a California secretary, one of two women whose bodies were found in Whiskey Creek near Hollywood, Florida, in 1967. He also was convicted of trying to rob a Miami Beach woman in 1968. He was sentenced to life in prison in Florida. When Bill Glass, Roger Staubach and McCoy McLemore visited Florida State prison in 1974, as part of a Bill Glass Champions for Life weekend, Murphy was impressed with the visitors, both world champion athletes and local businessmen. At that time Murphy had an earliest parole date of Nov. 2225, but that weekend changed his attitude and he devoted his future time spent in prison to serving a higher cause. His service in the chaplaincy program, leading Bible studies and mentoring other men in prison led the Florida Parole Board to release him on "parole with lifetime monitoring" in 1986. In 1986, Murphy began going back into prisons and jails all over the U.S. as a platform guest with Bill Glass. In 1990, he was hired on staff with Bill Glass Champions for Life. Murphy has also been a featured speaker for Kairos, Coalition of Prison Evangelists, Int'l Prison Ministries, Time for Freedom and Good News Jail & Prison Ministry. After visiting over 1,200 prisons, and recognizing the incredible change apparent in this man's life, the FL Parole Board terminated his "lifetime parole" in 2000. Murphy is now international director for Champions for Life, visiting prisons, jails, and youth detention facilities all over the world. Murphy authored a book of his experience and testimony "Jewels for the Journey".

charlis		09-Sep-2009 23:02
Here is a good memory for the Beach guys... Murph the Surf. He ran a surf shop next to a fresh bagel bakery on South Beach. The smell from the bakery was wonderful... they had the oven in front of the window and you could watch the bagels rotate. Murph tried to sell me a pink surfboard. He also sold, all hand made, skid boards and skate boards.

Arizona Al		09-Sep-2009 08:35
Whitebelt: If my memory serves me correctly (which at this point I have doubts), the used car lot was named Carl Kisch Motors. Alan Ogus, Ph.D Alive and well and hopefully not suffering with dementia in the presenium in Phoenix, Arizona.

Jeff		09-Sep-2009 03:28
Mara! That's quite a coincidence... I was beginning to think that I was the only one who remembered him... I'm a year older than you, and I vividly remember the "shack" on the sand covered in palm fronds, his long blond pony tail (which seemed quick shocking in those days) and the folklore about him. As I'd stated earlier... if he really had suffered from amnesia, how did he get a driver's license... where did he keep his car, pay his bills, etc.??? There's a lot of questions we might never get answered!

Mara		09-Sep-2009 02:38
I found this site because I searched for "Stretch The Beachcomber"! Jeff, I also remember him vividly. I am not a Floridian but I visited Miami Beach quite often during the mid & late 60's & early 70's because all my grandparents lived there. One set of grandparents lived about 3 blocks from the Shelbourne & rented a cabana. My family met him in '64 (I was 11) & I remember my mother buying a shark's tooth necklace from him.

Miami River Rat		09-Sep-2009 02:10
I know a woman in Ft. Lauderdale that has a '59 M.G. convertible! Her grandpa gave it to her, new, for a HS graduation present in '59 and she's still got it. She drives it on occasion. It was a real treat messing around with that car when I visited her two years ago.

Miami Girl		08-Sep-2009 23:17
Whitebelt, yes you're right -- I had forgotten about the Jag I always said I'd get if I ever win the lottery! Now though not too sure, I've heard their reliability isn't so great, but my head still turns and follows those new sedans with the Jag emblem on the hood (I've gotten over my love affair with convertibles).

whitebelt		08-Sep-2009 22:45
There was a used car lot on NW 36th St around 24th Ave that sold used imported cars. To this day I still drool over the 2 Jaguar XK120 and a Jaguar XK150 they had there. For about $850 each. Which was way out of my range as a high school kid at that time. They had some nifty imported cars back then. Renault, Triumphs, English Fords, Sunbeams.

charlis		08-Sep-2009 22:25
The 1960 or 61 hardtop convertible was a riot. It was 3 panels that worked like a "rag top"... only it kept jamming up! My oldest cousin had bought one from my father. My parents borrowed it for a romantic trip... It started to rain so they pulled up under an epressway over ramp... could not get the thing to go up all the way. My mother told the story about my dad getting into the back seat to pull the top forward. Never happened. The Rain stopped so he tried pushing the top back down. The whole time my mother was "pushing the button". Luckily it was a Saturday and they found a dealership that was open who fixed the problem so they could continue the trip. In 1962 our trip/move to FL was done in a red and black Fairlane 500 Sunliner convertible... a rag top. My father had been given the car as a rewad for his excellent job at the dealership.

Charles Knight		08-Sep-2009 19:32
'57 T Bird, rear porthole windows, removable hardtop, as a kid my neighbors hot wife had one with a leopard skin interior...I'd settle for beige LOL!

Miami River Rat		08-Sep-2009 14:04
A bunch of us are on the same page here: If I could have any one car, it would be a 55, 56 or 57 T-Bird. I could live with either a convertible or the style with the little portholes on the rear sides. Check 'em out: http://www.google.com/search?source=ig&hl=en&rlz=1G1GGLQ_ENUS284&=&q=1956+thunderbird&aq=f&oq=&aqi=g10 The closest I ever came to that was a '56 Ford Crown Victoria in 1960. That was a great looking car in its own right and if you couldn't afford a 'Bird...

Miami Girl		07-Sep-2009 20:30
My all time favorite car from childhood was the 58 Chevy Impala with it's curvy back - its so true how you could tell one car from another. Just consider the 57, 58 and 59 models were all totally different. My Dad bought a 54 Lincoln, our first with power windows. Then there was my dream car the 57 T-Bird with the little porthole windows that Annette Funicello had (a pink one no less), I was so jealous. My first job was at Richard's in Cutler Ridge shopping center at the Gift Wrapping Dept during Christmas '64. We had nothing but happy customers!! Later worked at Publix and found those old grumpy snow birds down there for the winter weren't the nicest people you want to deal with. Much nicer customers were found later at an A&P in Enterprise, Alabama!!

Jeff		07-Sep-2009 19:03
Winn Dixie had been cited on numerous occasions for selling meat too close to expiration date or actually out of date and repackaged. 60 minutes did an expose on that problem... that's why I refer to Winn Dixie as "the GREEN beef people"! Their Thrifty Maid canned vegetables (back in the 70's) were less-than-quality as I remember them - end cuts of green beans, tough cuts of carrots... yet, in my early days of living on my own I shopped at the store that was on NE 131st Street and NE 8th Avenue until it relocated to Grand Union's former location on NE 125th Street. This was actually its second move, as the original location [formerly a Margaret Ann store, then as Kwik Chek] was damaged by fire in the early 60's. It moved to NE 131st Street in what was a B-Thrifty Market (absorbed into Grand Union). Their former location was repaired, and a slot car track was the next tenant, followed by the pseudo-chartiable Red, White and Blue Thrift Store - still there after more than 37 years...

whitebelt		07-Sep-2009 18:06
I worked at the Kwik Chek on NW 27th ave and 95th St in my junior year 65-66 as a bag boy. Made surprisingly good money on Fridays and Saturdays. Was an interesting experience. Opened up the Publix on Hialeah Dr in my senior year as a bag boy, but was fired for taking off for the senior prom, even though I had scheduled it 2 weeks in advance. Publix took no prisoners back then. didn't allow tipping, either. But like Al alludes to, if people knew what went on in the stock room and butcher shop of those grocery stores. :-)

Arizona Al		07-Sep-2009 14:28
Charles Knight: I worked at the Grand Union (formerly Stevens Market) in Perrine during my high school senior year 1964 and through the following November when I joined the Army. The Manager was Andy Maccina and the Assistant Manager was Tom Potera. I started out as a service clerk (bag boy) and promoted to produce clerk in the produce section. The produce manager was Robert Toltz. My fellow service clerk peers were Bill Waladyka, David Pressley, Willy Ealy and John Truxall. The horror stories I could tell of the ethos and pathos in the "back room" but those are saved for another day. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

charlis		07-Sep-2009 14:16
Roberta... about the cars back then... you are so right. We could tell the make, model and year. My dad was in car sales and I always helped him "study" the new cars. As you said, you can't tell any more. My dream car is a 56 t-bird in that funky bluish green and white. First car was a used 63 Chevy Impala that I got in 1968. 2nd car, that was all mine, was a 64 1/2 mustang that I and a friend who was a mechanic rebuilt the engine... a ford chryser hemmy by the time we got done. Had that until 1974 when I moved up to Tampa. Favorite modern car that I owned... Merkur xR4ti (yes, that is part of my email address)... could that car move! This was the time when all the cars started looking alike. The Merkur stood out with its big double rear window fins. Hope everyone is having a great holiday.

Roberta Perry Hughes		07-Sep-2009 10:06
When our family moved to Miami, in 1952, my father found work as a shrimper, & would be out-to-sea for several days...probably, 3-5. Then, he drove a city bus. Wore the exact same uniform that Ralph Kramden wore, in The Honey Mooners, on RV, & had a marvelous device, on his belt, that was for change. My mother sold it in a yard sale, years later...they are hard-to-find, now. Finally, my dad was hired by Richard's, to be a package deliverer, to the Gables area. He won Employee of the Month, once, & had his picture made in the store's photography section. It was put in the Miami Herald, with a brief write-up. My dad's brother, my Uncle Johnny, also worked for Richard's, in the same capacity. He encouraged my father to seek work there. After shopping for school clothes, in Richard's Bargain Basement, we would go to Bayfront Park, sit on the benches, & watch the pigeons...the little beggars that they were....! Fun to watch them. My father always knew where to find us, when he got off work. Mama seemed to have a knack, for timing it just right, so we didn't have a long wait for Daddy to collect us, & take us home, saving us the bus fare that we would have otherwise had to spend. Loved for him to drive up in that wonderful 1955 two-tone green four-door Oldsmobile 98 sedan, that was our family car. It kept that "new car" scent, for a long time, even though my father "rode the camels"...(smoked). God, how I loved that car...! (And later, the 1958 salmon pink with ecru roof, four door Oldmobile 98 sedan.) When I think of Old Miami, I recall the buildings; shopping downtown; the city buses, with their distinct, almost fragrant, aroma of diesel exhaust, & the sound of their air brakes, & when they were in idle, sounding like a contentedly purring feline, & again, when they would drive off, from the bus stop; the wonderful chiming of the court house clock, that kept you aware of the time, if you had no watch; air-conditioning in the stores; the fashions of the day: crinolines beneath full circle skirts, worn with off-the-shoulder white gypsy blouses, & the cool sundresses, & shifts, made of newsprint fabric (remember that? I wish I could luck-up on some yardage, of the newsprint fabric!); the walk-in movie theaters, with the aroma of fresh popping corn, wafting out to the sidewalk to fill your nostrils with an overwhelming longing for a big boxful of the hot treat; the hotdog vendors on the street corner, & the aroma of their wares, making your mouth water & your suddenly empty stomach begin to audibly growl....all of that....but also, I remember the cars, back then...! We could name them, on sight...! Just about every kid could...! Try to do that now, with the cars that are coming toward you...! They all look like a spaceship, to me. No style, no classic lines, no easily identifyable features....& no white sidewall tires. What was the make & model of your family car? What was the make & model of your first car? What was your "dream car," the one you longed to own...? Roberta, caught in a time warp, & taking a mind trip, back to the sights, sounds, & aromas, of Old Miami...& getting to see it all, once again, thanks to the talented Don Boyd, Webmaster Extaordinaire....! I'm not worthy...!!! I salute you, Don Boyd...!!

Charles Knight		07-Sep-2009 05:09
Remember Grand Union? There was one at Central Shopping Plaza at NW 37th and 7th St.

Jeff		07-Sep-2009 02:25
Charles, I wish you had some pictures of those store displays... Richards' Lincoln Road store (as previously mentioned) was once Bonwit Teller and before that it was the original location for Burdines before they built their giant store on 17th Street and Meridian Avenue. For trivia buffs, Jackson's/Byron's had a store on the Beach as well... Washington Avenue and 13th Street. My late friend (Al Eckhardt) did a repaint of the Jantzen Swimsuit "diving lady" sign on the roof of their building. A lot of people think that Winn Dixie markets was never on Miami Beach, but "technically" they were... The old Thrifty Super Market on 6th Street and Washington Avenue was originally a Table Supply store in the 1930's - the predecessor to Winn-Dixie. Also, there was a Margaret-Ann grocery store on 6th Street and Meridian Avenue for a number of years. This chain was purchased and absorbed into the fold, along with Dixie Food Stores, Lovett's Markets and other acquisitions. Although I like their old store name "Kwik Chek" better, in the 1960's the chain decided to adopt its corporate moniker for all of their stores. It doesn't matter. I shop Publix... LOL!

charlis		06-Sep-2009 21:18
Richards/Gimbles... there would have been a problem if the store had been called Gimbles... There was already a store called that, only spelled GimbELs in NYC, established in 1887. Mis-spelling for the famous store in NYC is also GimbLEs... which would lead to some confusion if Richard had used his family name, which is also mis-spelled in several posts and info.

Charles Knight		06-Sep-2009 18:56
The original "Richards" was downtown and had a luncheonette as well I was hired as temporary Christmas help and got to keep my job after the holidays. One day while eating lunch I was doodling on a napkin and an exec. happened to look over my shoulder, on the following morning my supervisor sent me to personnel, I thought I was being let go but was promoted instead. The prop Dept. was on the top floor where we designed and built displays, and props for all of the Richards stores. I had rooftop access, it was a pretty old building and had a lot of dark nooks and crannies. VERY cool! I stayed on for some time but left after the job became too "routine".

Jeff		06-Sep-2009 04:32
LOL! No biggie, Charles... For those of you who do not know this... Richards originally was to be called Gimble's. Richard Gimble came down to Florida in the 1920's to start his store. When the rest of his family balked at the use of their name, he decided on using his first name instead, hence "Richards"... If I recall correctly something that I'd read years ago, he'd purchased what was previously known as "The New York Store"...

Charles Knight		06-Sep-2009 02:43
Jeff, oops...Yes you did,sorry about that!

Jeff		05-Sep-2009 21:47
Charles Knight: Re-read what I wrote. I certainly DID mention Richards! LOL! Parks, I'm not sure, but I believe you're right about those two businesses being on Miami Avenue. Jahn the Magic Man was a favorite hangout for my buddy, Larry Stang... I just exchanged some email with Jumpin' Jack O'Brien... Here's what he had to say: "Well Jeff...I am still rolling along...always good hearing from you. We are still here in mid Tennessee cause that is where four of our grandchildren are...no other reason. Tried to move back to Miami, but it just never came to pass...prices too high as is insurance and cost of living so I guess I will end my days here in the Bible Belt. I'll be 82 in February! Fighting off diabetic foot holes...if the holes get to the bones, I will lose a foot or two. Hope that doesnt happen. We just passed thru our fiftieth wedding anniversary...we got it right the first time.. Outside of that, not a thing is new.. thanks for the e-mail--Jack!"

charlis		05-Sep-2009 19:15
river rat... still have a box of the magic rings that I bought there... The trick was that the magician had 5 rings on his arm... he would take two off and "click" them together and they would be attached. He would pretend to "click" another, but there were actually two rings from the first trick. Same with rings 4 and 5.

mike cox		05-Sep-2009 15:39
Charles Knight as a kid,in 1959,I was fitted for a suit at Richards',a relative,or maybe family friend, worked in the men's dept.He was Hispanic or Latin,I just can't pull his name out of my memory banks righ this second. MR Rat Jahn the Magic Man was a 'must go ' place ,as often as possible,for the kids I hung out with.Don't know that we bought much,but we went any way. Back then a kid could ride his bike or roller skate.on Union NO. 5 skates with steel wheels...just about anywhere and be safe.Today we don't let our kids out of our sight. :(

whitebelt		05-Sep-2009 13:53
The bus stop at Gesu Church should be a memory for many of us. Was a terminus and transfer point for several routes. You got your social security card in that area, too. Think it was NE 1st and 1st. A few blocks north of there and you would be in a much seamier section of Miami.

Miami River Rat		05-Sep-2009 13:23
Anybody else remember Jahn The Magic Man? The store was on the SW corner of Biscayne Blvd and Flagler. It was a favorite with the young teens. He sold all sorts of novelties, cigarette loads that exploded, tiny pistols that actually shot, knives, magic tricks and other stuff that was "waaay cool". Also, that little open-air bar across the street from the Olympic theater. As kids we used to go there after seeing a movie. The guy would let us sit at the bar. He'd make us some sweet tasting coconut drink with the rum left out and we felt like big shots sitting at bar stools on the sidewalk.

Parks		05-Sep-2009 05:55
Jeff, Until 1965, diagonally across the street from Goodwill, was Hopkins-Carter Marine Hardware. Two other downtown business names come to mind, Railey Milam Hardware and Hughs Feed Store. Were they on Miami Avenue also?

Charles Knight		05-Sep-2009 05:45
Jeff, you forgot Richards Dept. store, I worked in the display department as a kid.

Jeff		05-Sep-2009 01:31
There were FOUR "five and dime" stores downtown at one time... Woolworth's, Kress, McCrory's and I believe the fourth was G.C. Murphy's... McCrory's expanded their store after Murphy's went out. Downtown Miami was quite the hub of activity. In the 1960's... aside from the variety stores... you had Burdine's, Walgreens, Mr. Foster's Store (office supplies), Jackson's/Byrons, the Olympia theater, Town (formerly Miami) theater, Rio (formerly Dixie) theater, (new) Miami theater [built in 1947], Paramount theater, Richards, Drug World, the Seybold Arcade with all of its fine jewelers, plus electronics stores, record stores, a card and gift shop, clothiers, restaurants and snack bars, the courthouse, travel agencies, a coin and stamp shop, plenty of banking and offices, Goodwill Industries (in the old Miami Herald building) on S. Miami Avenue... and before they built what was originally the Southeast Bank tower, the Mayflower Coffee Shop on SE 1st Street and Biscayne - across from Bayfront Park [with the library and bandshell]. Let's not forget the Dupont Plaza Hotel. It's parking area was once the site of Henry Flagler's Royal Palm Hotel... and there was also the Dallas Park Hotel. This doesn't even cover all of the hotels on Biscayne Blvd. nor everything else surrounding the core of downtown... You could spend a day there and still not run out of things to do...

charlis		04-Sep-2009 21:52
Whitebelt... thanks, as to Bayfront. As to the Flagler store being 5 stories... I think so. We had one here in down town Tampa when I moved here in the mid 70's. It disappeared in the early 80's. I seem to remember my "first" store in OH was only 2 stories. yes old Flagler was an interesting place... way back when. When I was last down in the area... I got lost... and I do not get lost that easy.

whitebelt		03-Sep-2009 23:56
Charlis, are you talking about Bayfront Park? The main library used to be there, as was the bandshell just south of it. Also Pier 5. They used to hold Easter services in the bandshell. I think there was a Kresges and a Kress's. Kresges was a chain. They had one at Northside Shopping center if I remember right. Was it a 5 story building? If so, it may be what later turned into Flagler Station. There used to be some interesting stores on Flagler around 5th and 7th aves.

charlis		03-Sep-2009 23:05
Speaking of Flagler St. Anyone remember the park at the end, on the bay? This was torn down when the Super Bowl came to town one year and an amphatheatre type structure was put in. The next time the Super Bowl was scheduled, that was torn down and a newer version was erected. All the trees were gone!

charlis		03-Sep-2009 23:00
Anyone remember the Kresgee (sic) store on Flagler? Cheaper than Woolworths and percurser to K-Mart and WalMart... and a combo of Dollar General and the Dollar Store. I remember that it had an entrance on Flagler and on the south side street. Years earlier, as a child in OH in the 50's, it was the biggest store in our small town. I actually was knocked unconsious when I was not paying attention and ran into one of the support posts in one of the aisles. I was about 3, according to my mother. When we moved to MB in '62, my mother heard about the store on Flagler. We went there at least once a month. Think there was also one on 163rd but it was torn town and turned into a K-Mart in the early 70's.

charlis		03-Sep-2009 22:47
Jeff... Mercy... thank you! At least I had the song right. I'll email you when I know my schedule for the weekend. Have to work Saturday and will be to tired to talk to anyone ;-)

Leighton		03-Sep-2009 20:28
Noticed the Time slide show is entitled "Paradise Lost?" - the exact same phrase that was used on their cover in 1980 - when discussing Miami after the riots, etc. They need to keep up with their own reports. More appropriate would have been, "Paradise Lost, Again?" Anyway, the kids were loose in the kitchen, and not only did they gorge themselves, they also dropped the cookie jar.

Joanne		03-Sep-2009 18:47
Read the article and thought it was a bit too soft...are others in south florida screaming about the corruption and mismanagement? Since I'm not there I'm not familiar with all the ins and outs but it seems like the media has a handle on the problem but are they really giving all the facts to the population? Can't help but wonder... PS When did Dade county become Miami-Dade county?

whitebelt		03-Sep-2009 18:32
Don, journalists predicted that a few years ago? Lots of us were predicting that decades ago.

Don Boyd		03-Sep-2009 16:53
There's a great article about Florida, and in particular Dade County, in the new issue of Time magazine that is worthy of reading: http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1919916,00.html Don

Jeff		03-Sep-2009 02:40
I remember the demolition of the Roney Plaza while I was still attending Beach High in the late 1960's. At the time, and as a teenager, this didn't faze me one bit. Years later, looking over the "big box" that replaced it, I can only shake my head in regret. We've lost so much architecturally... the Algiers, the Roney Plaza, The New Yorker... the mansions on Pine Tree Drive and on Brickell Avenue... the Dallas Park Hotel, the Everglades Hotel downtown... all of the grand old movie houses... and don't forget the "kitschy" designs of the old drive-in restaurants...oh, there's literally hundreds of buildings we've lost! However, to re-visit a past subject (and this one goes back to my own photo collecting days)... those drive-in restaurants. I'll start the list... see what you can add onto it... Kelly's - LeJeune Road/79th Street (later Billy's/Sip 'n' Sup), Tommy's Bar-B-Q, Daisy Mae, Miami Shores Drive-In, Biscayne Blvd. Drive-In, Hot Shoppes, Jimmy's Hurricane, A&W, Corky's (before it was enclosed), The Great Gable, Food 'n' Fun, The Ranch House (NOT the sit-down restaurants), Henry's, Colonel Jim's Bar-B-Q (later Uncle Tom's), Col. Jim's 79th Street Causeway, The Pitchfork, The Wagon Wheel, Scotty's, Waxie's, T&D (later Steak King), Flip's, Frank 'n' Bun, Majorette, The Cocoanuts, Kwicky Drive-In, Paley's Big Wheel, Car Hop (later Paley's Big Wheel 2)... (Did Pizza Palace or Pizza Tower hav curb service?)

Leighton		03-Sep-2009 02:03
A friend went to the national Pow Wow tourism convention, held in Miami Beach this year (May), and an event unveiling the latest renovations at the Fountainbleau. He, like I, is a big Mid-Century-lover, and he thought that they were able to maintain at least SOME of the original aesthetics. Of course, nothing equals authentic Mid-Century, so I'm sure I'd be appalled. Miami, like most cities, has NOT cherished the architecture of that time period (it has only recently been embraced by the hardcore preservationists, outside of the specific lovers of the "genre".) I was kid in the 60s/70s, so it all was very much a part of my life. Obviously, I wasn't skipping around the Fountainbleau at age six, but I remember visits there, and the architecture of the Beach, Sunny Isles, Dixie Hwy, etc. I have a great book on the history of Miami Beach - lots of photos - would kill to have lived the 50s/60s there, as an adult.

Jeff		03-Sep-2009 00:09
CHarlis... the Band was Mercy who did "Love Can Make You Happy"... Is there a chance you can email me a phone number? There's a few things I'd like to discuss with you that either would take up too much blog space or are not for others' eyes... I'll explain once we can chat...

charlis		02-Sep-2009 23:23
Jeff...we knew a lot of the same people... growing up on the Beach you and I got to meet a lot of the famous. There was a singer at our local pub few years ago... singer in a famous group from the Brandon Fl area with a hit song... I thought it was "Love Can Make You Happy"... but, like you, having a "senior moment". A coworker told me that the 'Bleau" has changed even more since we were there a few yeas ago. Evie's uncle Morris must be rolling over in his grave! "Goldfinger" was on TV this weekend and I could not watch it, thinking about the changes to the "Bleau"...

charlis		02-Sep-2009 23:03
jeff, re: can't by a date.... Come up to Tampa... I am used to dating "lower classmen"... Growing up on Miami Beach (have you ever noticed that people say that they grew up IN Miami but ON Miami Beach?)... we had the opportunity to meet a lot of famous people. I had forgotten about Steve. He was a lot of fun to be with.

Miami Girl		02-Sep-2009 21:13
Sorry, my name on the previous post didn't come through.

m		02-Sep-2009 21:12
Don: We just got a 2009 Accord EX-L and totally love it!! It's our 5th Honda in 19 years (one of which we kept for 11 years (a 1994 that's still in great shape). I'd buy American if they'd just learn..........

Jo-Anne K		02-Sep-2009 20:29
I'm flying home to Western NC on 9/17, hopefully I'll get to see some color from my front porch. This nightmare job is finally ending for me on 10/31/09 and I couldn't be happier, though my frequent flyer miles are going to suffer :) !!!

Leighton		02-Sep-2009 12:42
Was over in Western NC this week...cold front came through...high in the SIXTIES. Only lasted a few days, but it was nice. Can't wait to see the fall colors - it has been twenty years.

Don Boyd		02-Sep-2009 04:48
Mary Ann Vecchio's father Frank Vecchio worked a long career in the maintenance division for the Aviation Department at Miami International Airport during my career there in Airside Ops. He was in Local 1542 (AFSCME) with me for years but I never spoke to him about his daughter figuring it was a sore topic. I had to leave the union in 1986 due to a promotion and had served as recording secretary for two years and vice president for two years immediately before my promotion. Hi Jackie, and Jo-Anne K, how are you two? Fine I hope. Thanks for the hi's. Mike Cox: Packer Pontiac was at 665 SW 8th Street on the north side plus they had a lot across the street on the south side. I still have a receipt dated 8/31/86 for a 1986 Pontiac 6000LE that we bought new there for $13319. My oldest daughter, then 9, pronounced 6000LE as "Goolee" because that's what it looked like to her so we all called it that. It was great while new and for a year or two after but then it turned into a hunk of junk and was the last American-made car I've ever bought. The Goolee's resale value was nothing compared to anything Honda which has all my business now. Roberta: thank you for posting your list of memories and for your kind words. I appreciate your enthusiasm for the site and for your support. Thank you everyone else who posted the lists of memories. I really think all of the people, places and events that are posted on here will help us all better remember the wonderful area that we grew up in for many years to come. Leighton: what's happening up there in east Tennessee/western North Carolina? Is it cooling off any yet? Don

Jeff		02-Sep-2009 02:22
I stand corrected... the Kent State event was on May 4, 1970... Sorry for the "Senior moment"...

Jeff		02-Sep-2009 02:13
That is quite the coincidence, Leighton... She finally broke her silence a few years ago, and from what I've read, lives a quiet life with her husband in the Las Vegas area. I'll bet you a nickel she wouldn't remember me at all..

Leighton		02-Sep-2009 01:04
Interesting - one high school mid-term exam (Humanities) required us a create a fictional essay about an event we had studied. I chose the couple from the Kent State photo.

Jeff		01-Sep-2009 22:05
After exchanging the last trivia thread with Miami River Rat, I was looking over some of the pictures taken backstage at some of those aforementioned oldies shows... Here's who was left out of my "brush with fame" litany: Jimmy Jones ("Handy Man"), David Somerville and [the late] Bill Reed of the Diamonds (Bill used to live in North Miami), Cleveland Stills and [the late] Richard Blandon of the Dubs ("Could This be Magic"), Herb Cox of the Cleftones ("Little Girl of Mine"), Vito Picone of the Elegants ("Little Star"), Brian Hyland ("Sealed with a Kiss"), Earl Lewis of the Channels ("Gloria"/"My Love Will Never Die"), Joey Villa of the Three Friends and Royal Teens ("Blanche"/"Believe Me"), Harry Boyle of the Echoes ("Baby Blue"), Clarence Bassett of the Videos and Shep and the Limelights ("Trickle, Trickle"/"Daddy's Home"), Vickie Burgess of the Joytones ("My Foolish Heart") and Frank Mancuso of the Imaginations ("Guardian Angel")... Yet, the most UNUSUAL meeting was not with an actor, actress, singer or TV/Radio personality... It was back around 1974. My buddy [Larry Stang] was playing ar the Rhum Room of the Newport Hotel. He introduced me (casually) to a couple of girls he knew who worked as telephone switchboard operators at the Castaways. One of the girls was Mary Ann Vecchio - who, as a 14-year-old runaway, made history as the girl photographed kneeling over the body of Jeff Miller at Kent State in 1968! She would never talk about that day [once I realized who she was], but she was always nice to me, and one time [when her mom picked her up], I was given a ride down to Arthur Godfrey Road. Who'd have thought oou paths would cross???

Jo-Anne Kirby		01-Sep-2009 17:32
I was going to post a comment but then I thought better of it. Hope all is well with everyone! Hi Don!!!!!

Jeff		01-Sep-2009 16:07
Miami River Rat... I've actually heard of the Dream Weavers version of "It's Almost Tomorrow". Looking it up, it was released on Decca 29683 and charted 11/12/55... The record spent 23 weeks on the chart, and peaked at number 7! There were four other versions of the song, including those by Jo Stafford and Snooky Lanson and Jimmy Velvet. I believe I have it on a CD compilation... I didn't know they were from Miami... One name correction... When I met those members of The Flamingos at various times, I said one was Terry Nelson. It's Terry Johnson. Nate Nelson (another member) was a lead singer for a bit, and I fused those two names together. Speaking of the Flamingos, I just heard that their original lead - Johnny Carter - just passed away. I also omitted meeting Bobby Lewis, who had "Tossin' and Turnin'" in 1961. Remeber the Ran Dells who did "Martian Hop"? They cam from Beach High, since we're noting South Florida Peformers. Don't forget that Florida [as a whole] contributed some mine talent to the music industry... Ray Charles (Jacksonville), Johnny Tillotson, Sam and Dave, singer/producer/songwriter Luther Dixon, bluesman Billy "The Kid" Emerson (Tarpon Springs), Mercy "Love (Can Make You Happy) (Tampa), Fantasy (Miami), Heores of Cranberry Farm (Squiremen) (Miami), all of the home-grown acts of TK Records...

Miami River Rat		01-Sep-2009 13:21
Jeff, did you know any of these singers? Local Miami group "The Dreamweavers" had a national hit about '56 or '57, with "It's Almost Tomorrow". They dropped by the aforementioned dance at Policeman's Park a couple of Friday nights and did their thing. Mike Shaw, a student at Jackson High and Elvis lookalike/wannabe made one or two songs that were local hits, but I don't think he ever got popular on the national scale. You mentioned the Dade record label. I've got a 45rpm record of Davey Jones on the Dade record label. It's somewhere in boxes of other records. At this moment, I can't for the life of me remember what hit song Davey Jones had in '58 or '59, but it was a pretty big one. I also saw Lightnin' Hopkins. He was playing at the Sir John club in downtown Miami. Somebody arranged for him to come and play for teenagers at the Elk's Lodge near Edison High. I somehow learned about this and a friend and I took two girls and braved going into that strange part of town to see Ligntnin'. It was worth it! He was so drunk they had to help him get to a stool on the stage. Had a rag tied around his head. He just stared out at the sea of white teenage faces for a moment...then he hit a chord on his guitar and said: "You're gonna' see the whole show. If the cops don't like it, they can go to hell." And he DID put on a show!! Went to the Rock 'n' Roll hall of fame in Cleveland a couple of years ago, and the first thing you saw walking in the door was was a glass case with Lightnin' Hopkin's guitar in it. That was cool.

Jeff		01-Sep-2009 06:11
You know, this is the first time in a long time I've had the audacity to REALLY add my two cents in, as usually I'm forced to be mute when the "South Miamians" reminisce - 'cause I can't relate and have nothing to contribute to those memories... So, I digress one more time to mention some of the "locally famous" I've met as well... Rick Shaw, Roby Yonge, Don Barber (of Channel 7's Don and Bob show), Bob Gordon, "Jumpin' Jack" O'Brien, Evye Kapp (Charlis' friend and considered "The Female Jerry Lewis"), my buddy Larry Stang (who had the band "Larry Stang's Method" a/k/a "Broadway Park" - and who's a second cousin to Arnold Stang) and Mayor Chuck Hall of Miami Beach...

Jeff		01-Sep-2009 06:03
Thanks, Miami River Rat. The Chantels had a contentious split in 1960 when Richard Barrett took the group to Carlton Records sans Arlene Smith. It wasn't until a year or two back that Smith finally reunited with the three surviving Chantels for one of the PBS broadcasts. (Jackie Landry passed away prior to the reunion). Arlene Smith is consider by many "music buffs" to be the finest female lead in doo-wop. One of my favorite songs by them was NOT one of their hits... "Congratulations". They also did the original version of "Goodbye to Love", the eventual flip of the Marcels' "Blue Moon"... Of course, I also enjoy "Maybe" [their classic], "I Love You So", "(Every Night) I Pray", "He's Gone" and the (sans-Arlene) Chantels' "Look in My Eyes" and "Well, I Told You" (the answer to "Hit the Road, Jack). If memory serves me correctly, Carlton "King" Coleman hosted that show at the Palms, according to an interview of him that I read in an online article from the Miami Times. I neglected to mention him... "King" Coleman was the down-the-hall neighbor of my late mother for about a year or so until her passing... He supplied the vocals on "Mashed Potatos" with Nat Kendricks and the Swans on Dade Records. It was actually James Brown's band, and Brown did the original track, but Henry Stone couldn't release it without getting sued by Syd Nathan of Kind Records... so he substituted Coleman's voice. James Brown was a good friend of Steve Alaimo's. Non-musically - I met Roz Berle (Milton's sister and an actress in her own right) when she did some performing with the Acorn Civic Theater of Miami Beach. Another thespian I met was Warren Day, who did Flipper, Caribe and "Birds Do It" with Soupy Sales. I won't say for sure... but I also recall meeting Blanche Calloway, a broadcaster on WMBM and sister of Cab Calloway. When I attended Beach High, our drama teacher [the late Jay Jensen] brought Mercedes McCambridge to our class as a speaker. I got to ask her a question or two. During my tenure at ABC Office Equipment in North Miami, I met Phillip Michael Thomas, and composer/publisher/performer/producer/record label owner Morty Craft. Again, all of this brushing elbows with fame and I can't even BUY a date nowadays! {:cP

Miami River Rat		01-Sep-2009 04:33
Wow Jeff! You knew some major leaguers. The Chantels were one of my all-time favorite groups. The closest contact I had with a musical great was shooting pool with James Brown, in a pool hall in the 3600 block of NW 27th ave, circa 1959. How I came to be shooting pool in there would make a long story, but James was singing at The Palms in Hallandale and staying there in Brown Sub. I had somebody take a picture of me and JB holding our pool cues and I kept that picture for years, but it got lost somewhere, swallowed by the ravages of time.

Jeff		01-Sep-2009 02:36
Last (but not least), let me not forget Steve Gibb (Barry Gibb's son), the late Hy Weiss (owner of Old Town Records), Henry Stone (TK Records), Karl Richardson (engineer/producer - Barbra Streisand, "Saturday Night Fever, etc.), Steve Alaimo's partners (Ron and Howard Albert - engineers/record producers - Bill Wyman, Firefall, James Gang, Aretha Franklin, etc.), the late Tom Dowd (engineer/record producer - too many recordings for Atlantic to list here), Mac Emerman (former owner of Criteria Recording Studios), Keith Allison (of Paul Revere and the Raiders)... and I've also communicated with Deborah Chessler (writer of "It's Too Soon to Know" and former manager of Sonny Til and the Orioles) and Sid Tepper (songwriter)...

Jeff		01-Sep-2009 02:28
Almost left out Harry W. Casey (KC) of KC and the Sunshine Band, Betty Wright, George McCrae... To correct one mis-type... Bob Feldman, not Felman of the Strangeloves...

Jeff		01-Sep-2009 02:25
Charlis... It most defintely WAS Circle Blue Print... and it was Meridian Avenue... halfway between Lincoln Road and Lincoln Lane... Michigan is two blocks West of there. OK... bragging rights here... Between my record collecting days, working for Steve Alaimo, going to oldies shows and helping my buddy (John Miller) with his Doo-Wop concerts, I've met a number of music people... and have many photos to prove it! Some of the names that come to mind are: Dion DiMucci (Dion and the Belmonts), Connie Francis, Jack Scott (had dinner with him), Chuck Berry, Ben E. King, Lloyd Price, Stephen Stills, Gerry Granahan (now a personal friend), The Shirelles, Del Shannon, Tommy James (had dinner with him), The Fleetwoods, Dave Mason, Danny & the Juniors, Jake and Zeke Carey and Terry Nelson of the Flamingos, Jan Berry (of Jan and Dean), Freddie Cannon, Rosie (of Rosie and the Originals), Bobby Rydell, Jay Black and Kenny Vance of Jay and the Americans, Rudy West (lead singer of the Five Keys), Little Eva, Willie Winfield and Raoul City of the Harptones, Jimmy Gallagher (lead singer of the Passions), Phil Cracolicci (lead singer of the Mystics), Arlene Smith (lead singer of the Chantels - had dinner with her), Little Peggy March, Lesley Gore, Cathy Jean (of Cathy Jean and the Roommates), Len Barry, Lenny (lead singer of the Chimes), Steve Alaimo, Toni Wine (songwriter, singer, half of "the Archies")... I've had email communication with Alan O'Day (singer/songwriter), Billy Vera, Sherlie Matthews (singer/songwriter/producer/backup vocalist), Ron Dante (the other half of "The Archies"), Bob Felman (sonwriter/producer and 1/3 of the Strangeloves), Millie Jackson... and there were others... \I also took phone calls for Steve Alaimo from Mark Lindsay and Barbara Lynn... Can't match a name to a song? Ask me! Back in Beach High, I was in drama class with Roy Firestone (of ESPN fame)... Yet, with all this I'm still broke, unknown and single... LOL!

Miami Girl		01-Sep-2009 00:54
Charlis, you got it sooooo right. Yes, we "have come a long way baby" but it was a better time back then, even with Fidel and Nikita in our face and without air conditioning - how did we stand it?

charlis		31-Aug-2009 23:53
Let's add the First Man on the Moon and going to the beach and looking up in the sky to see the firsst launches. Kids were healthier since they were out doors doing sports, not on a computer. Parents were involved with their kids... sitting down to family dinners instead of talking on cell phones or getting on their own computer, watching TV together and discussing daily events The only reality shows on TV were Ed Sullivan, Laugh In, Carol Burnette, Martin and Lewis, Flip Wilson, etc.

charlis		31-Aug-2009 23:47
Here is the best memory... mid 50's to mid 60's... we were not at war with anyone! Yes, Cuba and Russia were scaring the daylights out of us... but we did not have any troops getting killed.

charlis		31-Aug-2009 23:37
Jeff... don't know if it was the print shop that blew up... I do remember that it was on the same street that the front of Burdines was on... not on Lincoln Rd... the street that ran behind the auditorium/convention center between Beach Hi and Lincoln Rd. Was that Michigan? I want to say the mid 60's.

charlis		31-Aug-2009 23:30
Miami Girl... celebrities... have the time I didn't know they were celebrities. When the Beatles came to down, I was crossing Arthur Godfrey Rd and almost got hit by a car. This guy with a heavy British accent got out, Told me his name and gave me a pass to a show. It was one of the Beatles. I was not "into" the Beatles at the time. Evie almost killed me! One celebrity, that I had known as a child in OH, often came to the Beach to see his sister... Irving Fields. Met Frank Sinatra, on 2 occasions. The one that stands out was when Evie and I were working at the club... I drove her home to change clothes after school. The entrance to her place on S Beach was in an alley. They were filming one of Sinatra's movies. Charles Bronson was in it. Sinatra refused to let Evie get to her place. She adored him. Finally they took a break and she was allowed to go to her place. We were almost late for work that night... we were working with Wayne Cochran!

Mike Tripp		31-Aug-2009 23:09
St. Pauli Beer bottles in the shape of a woman's body... No paper towels in the kitchen... No disposable diapers... No disposable cigarette lighters... No filtered cigarettes...

Miami Girl		31-Aug-2009 22:03
Roberta: You listed swing sets in the backyard and see-saws, how many remember those swing sets coming up off the ground when you went "high" and also how did we ever survive childhood with those see-saws that someone would always jump off of and the other person would slam into the ground! Al: I do remember June Hollifield! I say it again, what brats you boys were!

Miami River Rat		31-Aug-2009 20:45
I don't remember exactly where Packer Pontiac was located, but I remember the name. They had a catchy jingle for their radio ads. Thanks, Mike! Now you've got that "Go to Packer Pontiac, Packer Pontiac" thing running through my head. The roller coaster was still on site in 2005, Jackie. Like the Ferris wheel, not nearly as impressive now as it was back when. I couldn't say exactly when the Friday night teen dances started at Policeman's Park. I do know they were going as early as the fall of 1955. A girl and I wanted to go, but we were 12 and you were supposed to be at least 13 to attend. Our parents dressed us up funny and we walked over there anyway, fearful that the cops would somehow know we were underage and would send us away with all of our older friends laughing at us. Surprise! They didn't check ID's at the door and looking back, they probably wouldn't have cared anyway. Fun dance, that one was.

Jeff		31-Aug-2009 20:38
Two answers for ya... Jerry Wichner was on WQAM, then on WINZ for a long tenure Packer Pontiac was on SW 8th Street

mike cox		31-Aug-2009 18:28
Speaking of car dealers, I worked at Packer Pontiac,parking cars in the repair shop area. We were called 'Porters'. It was 1965,when cars were CARS,..especailly the GTO's. WOW,what power. I think it was in the Little Havana area,but cannot remember for sure,crs ya know. anyone else remember Packer Pontiac by chance ?

Jackie		31-Aug-2009 16:33
Miami River Rat: How about the "roller coaster?" As I recall, it didn't go very high up. As for the ferris wheel.. I never did like it, epecially when I was at the top when it stopped. I think I realized then that it wasn't that big, but it was big enough for me. Even though it scared me, I still went on it once each time we went to the park. My favorite ride was the swing-like chairs that sent you sailing into the air. I don't remember what the ride was called. I do remember the train. It was usually our last ride of the day before our treat and the ride home. We always went on Sunday afternoon. Was it open any other days? I think the teen dances were after my time. We stopped going in the very early 50's. Does anyone remember what station Jerry Wichener was on? He was our favorite radio personality in my day.

Miami River Rat		31-Aug-2009 16:07
Jackie: Policeman's park was indeed on the river, NW South River Drive.(How's that for an address!) I grew up a few blocks from there. Early childhood, I enjoyed the rides and treats. Remember the train? It burned coal and had a unique smelling smoke. Teenage years they had a dance, I think every other Friday night. A bunch of us would gather in the drugstore on the corner of 17th st. and 27th ave and walk to the dance from there. Some good times! In 2005 my sister, my cousin and I went there just to look. The Police Benevolent Association still owns the land and the lodge building is still there and operating. A retired cop that was minding the store talked to us. He didn't remember the teenage dances; "before my time". He showed us around and some of the hardware from the rides is still there, but it hasn't been open as a park in many years. They'd like to open the park back up, but can't seem to get it done. He said that nearly every month some business or another offers them $10 million for the land, but they don't know where they could re-locate if they sold it. They have 10 acres there, with both road and river frontage. Go by if you get a chance. At least in 2005, the Ferris Wheel was still there. It looked tiny as modern Ferris Wheels go, but I had remembered it as being about the biggest thing my childhood eyes had ever seen.

Jackie		31-Aug-2009 05:02
I thought of one.... Policeman's Park near the river, I think. Being just a young, non-observant kid, I never knew how we got there from West Miami, but I knew how much fun we had on the little rides. While I was trying to find out more about the park, I landed on several other "Miami Memories" sites, but none of them compare to this one. Thanks, Don!

Roberta Perry Hughes		31-Aug-2009 01:56
A few more: -Cooper Oldsmobile, where my father bought his Oldsmobiles...LOVED those cars!! -The Monkey Jungle -So-called "truck farms," between the area of Miller Road & Sunset Drive -The "Vegetable Man," who drove through my neighborhood, selling his fresh produce...to the homemakers who knew how to prepare it -Fish Hatcheries, on Sunset Drive, that raised tropical fish, some of them rare -Pet Stores, that sold goldfish, guppies, aquariums, small animals, turtles...even Cayman 'gators -Pastel dyed baby chicks, at Easter, & baby white rabbits, with the purple eyes -Gold fish bowls, in a child's bedroom -Pet turtles, & how they always seemed to get out, get lost in the bedroom....& die of starvation, if not found in time -Pet Guinea pigs, gerbils, or hamsters -Parakeets, & bird cages, in the living room -The "Florida Room" addition to homes, if one was not part of the home, originally -Building permits, posted on the lawn of those who were adding a "Florida room" -Swingsets in yards, & inflatable wading pools in Summer -Playgrounds, with a jungle jim (gym?), see-saws, slides, tether ball, whirly-go-rounds, park benches, & cement picnic tables -Five-and-Ten-Cent stores -Toy stores -Tasty Freeze -Downtown Hot Dog Vendors -Vagrants in the parks -Barber Poles in front of Barber Shops -Bubble gum machines, practically every where! -Novelty rides, operated by a dime, in front of grocery stores, which could be a small horse, a pig, a miniature merry-go-round, or a miniature car -Coin-operated Serv-o-mations, that vended sandwiches, coffee, or sodas-on-ice -Sweden House smorgasboard-style eateries -Woolworth's lunch counter -Newsboys, downtown, selling papers -Door-to-door Studio Girl Cosmetics -Stanley Home Parties, that sold Stanley products -Playing charades, whenever company came over -Weiner roasts outside, over an open fire, down in a pit your father dug ( being very careful not to use Oleander switches) -Shish Kebabs, on the outdoor charcoal grill -"Conch salad," made from cubed avocados, diced onions, & Key Lime juice, tossed together, & served with fried sea food...yum! -When most everyone's yard was a paradise, that boasted gorgeous tropical foliage, & wonderful, bearing fruit trees -The 48-star American flag, on the flag poles of our schools, & Government buildings --Lordy! How I miss all of the sights, sounds, aromas, & flavors, that made Miami the familiar environment that it was, endearing it to my child's heart, & remembering our friends, schoolmates, neighbors...& our relatives, one & all. It was "home." Thanks to our wonderful friend, & host, the Webmaster of this Site, Don Boyd, our "Old Miami" shall never die, as long as this Site is up & running...! I support it, often, out of my humble & deepest appreciation, for everything that it means to me. Don works very hard, to make this Site what it is, up into the wee hours of the morning, when most are enjoying their slumber. The button to click, to make a donation, to help keep this Site going, is not located here, on the Comments pages. It is located in the Galleries, where all of the countless images are posted, for our enjoyment. Don has labored long & lovingly, to compartmentalize all of these images, by category, & by year, adding the memories & images sent to him, by all of us, to be the Feast-for-the-eyes that it is. This Site should win awards...!! Thank you, Don...!! You're the best...!! I will contact you, soon (Wednesday).

Arizona Al		31-Aug-2009 01:24
Miami Girl: Hamilton Franklin and I climbed and painted the Water Tower in 1957 when we were in the 5th grade. This was prior to Cutler Ridge Elementary School's completion. Hamilton had a thing for June Hollifield (she was in our 6th grade class...Mrs. Bush's class) and painted something derogatory and I shall endeavor to quote "June Hollifield likes Hamilton Franklin because she embroidered his name on her Kotex Belt"..Oh we were soooooo bad in our youth. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. (go figgure)..Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Jeff		30-Aug-2009 22:25
And a few more... Hoffman's Cafeteria Kim's Chinese Restaurant Ross Young Wine Merchants Reliable Rent-A-Car Vic Potamkin Chevrolet (formerly Leo Adeeb Chevrolet) Friedman's Bakery Butterflake Bakery Ida M. Fisher Junior High The Mustang Shop Dorwin's Flamingo Shops (women's fashions) Saks 5th Avenue on Lincoln Road Wolfie's (both Lincoln and 21) Silver Hardware Company Adler Typewriter Company Epicure Market The Miami Beach Sun The Reporter (later combining with The Sun) A&P Carnival Fruit Company Causeway Ice Cream Shop (on Meridian Avenue & 5th Street) Cook's Beach Casino

Jeff		30-Aug-2009 22:19
A few more Beach memories: Paul's Barber Shop (Paul recently passed away) Mike's Meat Market Crown Kosher Meat Market Everglades Soda Shop (later Kozy Korner) Lamb's Laundromat The Miami Beach Times Hopkins' Photo Service Adae and Hooper Insurance Artcraft Signs Nu-Art Signs 9 cent ice cream sandwiches at Woolworth's Concord Cafeteria New Dubrows, Inc. Yiddish-American Vaudeville at the Cinema Theater Miami Beach Radio Company (we bought all the latest records there)

Jeff		30-Aug-2009 22:16
Mike Tripp - I've seen an old newspaper ad about Princess Park. Was it on West Flagler or SW 8th Street? Either way, I think it was a 1947 ad... but the park didn't last too long, did it? Charlis - If we're thinking of the same thing, it WASN'T the Lincoln Lane Retaurant that exploded, it was Circle Blue Print... Their shop once was a beauty salon in that location, and an old gas line leaked. Fortunately, everyone survived the blast. They relocated to Lincon Road and Michigan Avenue. I was friends with everyone at Circle, as I used to get a lot of "quick printing" done for there. Al Brody owned the company, Tony ran the blueprint machine and Tim was the pressman. Tim dated a co-worker, Melody Compton who was a classmate of mine at Beach High. Long before they added the extra lanes and barriers to the "forever under construction" Palmetto Expressway, Melody was driving it under the influence - crossed the median - and smashed headon into a car heading the other way killing herself and the girl in that car. Here's my 2 cents worth of space-clogging memories (all from 1960's Miami Beach): Winkler's Five and Ten Alfie's News Doubleday Books Seeing "Candy" at the Colony Theater Seeing "Gone with the Wind" at the Beach Theater Summertime Fun Shows at the Sheridan Theater "Holy Joe" outside Liggett Rexall on Lincoln Road Beach Bagel Company Flame Steak National Shirt Shops

Jackie		30-Aug-2009 20:34
To all of you who compiled your "remember lists," thank you. Mike Tripp, you are right about the corner of Red Rd. and the Trail. There was the Wild Cat Drug Store on the north side of 8th, west of the Wild Cat Grocery. The Black Cat was on the south side of the street, and just south of that, on Red Rd., the Black Cat Grocery. Going west on the south side of the Trail was the TePee Lounge and George Brothers Hardware. My grandad called it Wildcat Corner. We lived three blocks west on the Trail from 1945-55. I walked to the Coral Gables bus stop to ride the bus to CG Elem, Ponce Jr, and CGHS.

Miami Girl		30-Aug-2009 20:27
Charlis: Gee you really got to live the high life!! Only once I went to one of Jackie Gleason's shows, once had lunch at the "Bleau" where Bobby Darin was at the next table and once visited Surfside Six. Sounds like you had the life I wanted, getting to see and do these things all the time. At that time I wanted to either live in California or Philly (where of course Dick Clark & American Bandstand was). There was a blond haired "surfer dude" from Calif. new to Palmetto in the '64 time frame -- immediately became the most popular boy in school! Damn I can't remember his name now. Al: Funny story about the condoms on the popsicle truck -- how many houses did you TP or windows did you "soap" -- if we had outhouses you and you're buddies would have been turning 'em over! Did you all climb and paint the water tower?

charlis		30-Aug-2009 16:51
The ice skating rink in the basement of the Deauville Seniors and surfers in South Beach... seniors playing chess or cards at the stone tables Running in to celebrities that acted like normal people, and were treated the same Being the home of Flipper

charlis		30-Aug-2009 16:22
I can add a few more... When Gallaghers opened, with the open grill in the front where your steaks were cooked and the Tubby potatoes Going to the Cameo theatre for 25 cents to see all the Elvis, Beach (Annette F), movies. A dollar got you there by bus, in to see the movie, a bag of popcorn, a drink, and a hot dog! Reel to reel recorders Doctors making house calls Surfside Six houseboat (and seeing it almost in the street after Hurricane Cleo) The big pool at the 'Bleau where you could go downstairs and see people swimming Goldfinger and Thunderball being filmed in Miami and Miami Beach The Beatles coming to Miami Beach Dr. Pallbearer The first Lums WQAM moving to Miami Beach The air raid drills The restaurant on Miami Beach, next to Burdines on Lincoln Rd, that blew up. The sound could be heard all over the beach. Pelican Island The horse back riding trail off 163rd St in N Miami When anything south of Kendall on 41 was the Everglades

Mike Tripp		30-Aug-2009 16:20
Roberta, Jeff, Miami Girl - Yes, I remember all of those things. Do you remember during WWII when troops were barracked at the Alcazar Hotel on Ponce and drilling on Ponce? How about the old Princess Park (where they held midget car races every Saturday nite)? How about the Miami Sun Sox baseball team? Browns airport? The beautiful dolls on display throughout the Coral Gables Library? Y'all jogged my old memory many times... Oh yeah - the Wild Cat grocery and the Black Cat Tavern on Red and the Trail (I think that was the location)? I can also remember when there were no paved roads south of Johnson Drive (SW 102nd St.). I remember when SW 4th St. did not go thru from 38th Ct. to LeJuene Rd. and Floyd's Fruit occupied a large portion of land between SW 4th and the Trail east of LeJuene.

Jeff		30-Aug-2009 16:00
Aside from the usual typos (which can't be helped as I'm no typist) , one MUST be corrected: The architect's name was Norman Bel Geddes, renowned for his work and a relative of actress Barbara Bel Geddes

Jeff		30-Aug-2009 15:57
A Brief History of Copa City, Part 2 January, 1950 Carmen Miranda appears at Copa City. January 31, 1950 Local [WMIE] broadcaster Barry Gray - doing his live show from Copa City - gets into an altercation with tabloid-style publisher Reuben Clein [Miami Life] because gray won’t retract comments he’d previously made about certain newspapers. After Clein slaps him, Barry Gray hits Clein over the head with his microphone. The next day, Gray charges Clein with assault and battery; Clein countercharges with “assault with a deadly weapon” (the microphone). Dec. 21, 1950 Jane Froman returns. Jan., 1951 Histry is made when Josephine baker (ending a 17 year self-imposed exile from the United States) opens at Copa City. As part of her contract, “her people” [black] are allowed to attend the performances. This is the first time the “color barrier” is broken down on Miami Beach as integrated audiences enjoy the shows. Jan. 18, 1951 The legendary Sophie Tucker takes the stage. 1950 Billy Daniels is booked into the club. 1951 Steve Gibson and the Red Caps perform. 1952 The club is leased to Bill Miller, who renames it “Bill Miller’s Riviera” after his successful club up North. Eventually, Miller goes to Las Vegas, where his “Riviera” club becomes a fixture in Vegas nightlife. After a period, Weinger and Cohen reopen the club as Copa City. February, 1955 Lena Horne cancels her appearances at Copa City because she alleges that Miami Beach’s Royal York Hotel refused her accommodations because she was [in her words] “a Negro”. The manager of the hotel claimed that no reservations were ever made, and this is why there were no accommodations. 1955 Mae West is booked to perform, but her run is cut short and cancelled due to poor turnout and her extravagant salary demand. January, 1957 Murray Weinger dies of a heart attack at the age of 39. Jerome Cohen continues to run the club under his management. 1958 The production of Duke Ellington’s “Jump for Joy” is presented at Copa City. 1958 or 1959 Copa City closes. September,1959 Martha Raye and her manager [and ex-husband] Nick Condos ink a $300,000 deal to reopen the club as “Martha Raye City”. The project never gels. 1959 The now-closed club is temporarily reopened to accommodate “spillover” acts from the “Nights of Stars”, as every club in the hotels is already booked. December, 1961 Merrill Spivak, owner of Chicago’s “Les Bistro” takes over the club site with plans for reopening. Again, nothing comes of this plan. 1967-68 The building that once was Copa City is provided to the Acorn Civic Theater of Miami Beach as a temporary home for one of its productions. 1970’s A nightclub finally opens, but it is one for the style of the day. “Heaven”, a teen-oriented club has a go in the once-popular supper club. 1980’s-on The former night club building becomes the home of Cal Kovens Construction Company. Sidenotes: Tony Roma, who’d started his chain of restaurants here in South Florida, was once the head bartender for Copa City. Martin and Lewis (with the dancers “The Four Step Brothers”) and Duke Ellington also performed there.

Jeff		30-Aug-2009 15:56
Thanks, Ray... and coincidently, I've decided to try and post it again, as I just did Word document will all of my notes... It seems that the original thread was to long to past, I'll do it in sections... Copa City was a popular night spot on Miami Beach that succumbed (as did the other independent clubs) to changing times (as the newer hotels added their own nightr spots). Here's a timeline I've put together bsed on old newspaper accounts and tidbits found on the web: A Brief History of Copa City, Part 1 1942 Murrray Weinger, a 25-year-old entrepreneur from New York comes to Florida because of his high blood pressure. 1944 Weinger purchases the Copacabana nightclub at 1750 West Avenue on Miami Beach. The club has been in operation since the 1930’s. June, 1948 The Copacabana is gutted by fire. 1948 Weinger commissions Normal bel Geddes to design a new club, to be named “Copa City”. Bel Geddes’ design has the club shaped to resemble a grand piano, and three rooms with retractable walls that go up into the ceiling, so that the configuration of the room size can be changed as needed. The lobby features glass kiosks for selling merchandise. Construction begins by Allied Construction Company at a cost of $700,000. December, 1948 Copa City opens. March, 1949 Jane Froman’s first appearance at Copa City. April 12, 1949 A Saturday – Copy City is closed by its creditors (one being Allied Construction). 1949 The Club is placed into Federal receivership. Sam Kay purchases the club, then sells it to Canadian businessman Louis Chessler. Jerome J. Cohen (whose family owns Allied Construction) becomes friends with Weinger. Together they lease the club from Chessler and reopen it.

Ray		30-Aug-2009 15:07
Jeff, about your loss of a lot of typing. Sometimes if you right click and go back, you might get it back. Another thing to get into the habit of doing is hit control A then control C just before you hit send. That puts it in your buffer so you can paste it into a new message if that one fails. I've lost some great messages from that bad experience. Ray

Arizona Al		30-Aug-2009 13:44
Miami Girl: Fondly remember Pete the Popsicle Man in Cutler Ridge. Circa 6th grade (1958) myself, Dennis Oyler, Paul Atwood and John Sollinger got busted for attaching uninflated condoms to the rear icre cream door locker handles on Pete's truck during a stop. He continued on his route with the condoms merrily dangling from his truck. The neighboorhood mothers were somewhat less than enchanted! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and still somewhat of a merry prankster in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami Girl		30-Aug-2009 13:33
Roberta, your memory of the ice cream man brought to mind "Pete the Popsicle Man" in Cutler Ridge of the 50's. I loved those blue popsicles - don't remember the flavor though.

Leighton		30-Aug-2009 07:46
Speaking of "The Jackie Gleason Show" - not being able to sleep tonight, in beautiful Western NC, I came across the show on ALN...American Life Network, whatever that is. While seeing the opening credits was a great blast from the past, I had forgotten just how bad the "Color Honeymooners" actually is. The change of cast from the "classics" is jarring enough....but those 1966 MUSICAL numbers! Oh, my. While the phrase "June Taylor Dancers" always brings a smile, it is pretty hard to sit through the latter "Honeymooners." It is absolutely bizarre. I remember the 1976, 77 and 78 single-shot follow-ups, more akin to the originals, but mixing casts of the female leads from the 50s and 60s versions. (I know, Jeff, Pert Kelton was the original "Alice" for a few episodes, and played Alice's mother once, in a 60s "color" version.) It gets very confusing, actually. This got me started on an Internet Movie Database tour (IMDb.com) of the show - very complicated. It certainly had "nine lives."

Roberta Perry Hughes		30-Aug-2009 05:51
-Lockheed Constellations -the horizontal hold, on your TV, flipping, whenever an airplane took off, or was overhead -Wind Vanes...is that what they called them? at the Tamiami Airport -the blue haze of the swamp smoke, from the 'Glades, hanging in the air -Gypsy children, selling wax chrysanthemums, door-to-door -The Fuller Brush Man -Door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesmen -TV repairman, who would come to your house -Ice cream peddlars...literally...on big tricycles, with a huge box with dry ice inside it, to keep the ice creams & Popsicles frozen -MacArthur Dairies; Land O- Sun; & Foremost, all who delivered milk, door-to-door -The Miami News -Jackie Pierce -Bob Clayton, of Movie 7, later, on Concentration, when he relocated to NY -Charlie Murdock, of WQAM -The Blue Gook, at the 7-11 Store, & the radio ads for it -The Adventures of Chicken Man, on the radio -Pizza Pie, was just tomato sauce & cheese -Tahiti Beach -The Dade County Court House clock -The bus terminal, in the Gables -The wooden portable school buildings, that formed a little village, prior to the completion of a new school (I loved the portables!) -The cow pasture, on 102nd Avenue -Small planes, that flew overhead with plastic advertising banners: See Miami Jai Alai

mike cox		30-Aug-2009 04:52
Planes spraying for fruit flies. wow I remember them vividily,we'd see them coming and run for cover while at school. As I recall some idiots actually shot at them once in a while. I remember when Eastern airlines was on strike and the pilots roaring in and out of the airport getting some stick time..who knew those planes could be that agile ! The old turbo props that is.They had ACCELERATION !

Jeff		30-Aug-2009 03:25
From lostparks.com - long lost attarctions and amusement parks here in the Miami-Dade area: Anirama, North Miami Aquafair, North Miami Coppinger's Pirate's Cove, Miami Crandon Park Zoo, Miami Famous Trees, Miami Fun Fair, Miami Beach Funland Park, Miami Miami Aquarium & Marine Museum, Miami Miami Rare Bird Farm, Miami Miami Serpentarium, Miami Miami Wax Museum, Miami Musa Isle, Miami North Miami Zoological Garden, Miami Old West Kiddie Park, North Miami Beach Planet Ocean, Miami "Anirama" sounds like some kind of a zoo, but there were no animals kept here -- no living ones, anyway. Anirama was a museum of animation, consisting of close to one hundred three dimentional animated figures, most illustrating nursery rhymes or circus acts. Parade float and display designer Van A. Olkon was the moving force behind the museum and the creator of these complex, mechanical automatons. Olkon was about to be outclassed by another tinkerer in animation, however, who was busy at the same time inventing audio-animatronics: Walt Disney. Anirama could be found at the corner of Biscayne Blvd. and Broad Causeway at 123rd Street in North Miami.

Miami River Rat		30-Aug-2009 02:31
Miami Girl, I had totally forgotten about that legless guy that rolled himself around on a board and sold papers downtown! Most of the other things you listed I haven't forgotten. I have some particularly fond memories of the caves at Venetian Pool. (Oh, to be 14 for just one more Saturday afternoon!)

Jeff		30-Aug-2009 02:08
I DON'T BELIEVE IT!!!!! I just spent a good half-hour or more typing, editing and arranging a great little piece on Copa City - a famous nighclub on Miami Beach that had a rich history... and after I hit "add comment" the @#!!!!~ blog dumped my work and didn't add a thing... Do it over? HELL no!!!!! Thanks a LOT, technology!!!!

Miami Girl		30-Aug-2009 01:14
Good additions whitebelt! Anybody else have more?

whitebelt		30-Aug-2009 00:38
You forgot the train and zoo at Crandon Park, and the pre-Metro black and white county cop cars.

Miami Girl		29-Aug-2009 22:24
Similar to previous list's posted here a long time ago but also some new ones: YOU KNOW YOU GREW UP IN OLD MIAMI IF YOU REMEMBER..... When the Courthouse was the tallest building When US1 was only two lanes Pier 5 where you could buy fresh fish right off the boat When the people on South Beach were older than the buildings WCIX channel 6, or WAXY radio and Rick Shaw, or Zeta 4 Big Wilson Ralph Renick Howard Johnson's fried clams and ice cream The Jackie Gleason show with the June Taylor dancers Riddle Airlines Medley Speedway A & P grocery stores Planes spraying for fruit flies Bayfront Bandshell The Miami News When there was a grocery store in Dadeland Mall Grand Union, Kwik Check, Ann Margeret grocery stores When the Rusty Pelican burned down The Tropicaire Drive-In and swap meet The Ferris wheel atop Burdines downtown Jordan Marsh Riviera Theater and the Miracle Mile Theater National Airlines, Air Florida and Eastern Airlines Pan Am's airport at Dinner Key When the Rickenbacker was a drawbridge (only 25 cents) The Skipper Chuck Show and the Sunday Funnies Lindsley Lumber Zayres JByrons Hot Shoppes Paileys Big Wheel Crandon Park Zoo Johnny and Mack by the railroad track Sheehan Buick on 8th Street ... when it was called 8th Street Gretners Restaurant, The Flame, Dixie Bell Inn, The Depot Black Angus Restaurant at 104 street Holsum Bakery's wonderful smell of bread baking on US1 When Dadeland was an open-air mall When there was only a Gulf station on US 1 cross from Shorty's When Tamiami airport was on the Tamiami Trail A&W Drive in restaurants Lums and their frozen schooners and wieners in beer The Village Inn The Playboy Clubs Big Daddy's Lounges Auto Inspections Roberts Western Wear and OK Feed Store The English Pub and Jamaican Inn on Key Biscayne Claude Pepper's picnics at Tropical Park Tropical Park when it was a racetrack South Miami Hospital when it was only one building. When they built Baptist hospital When everyone thought the turnpike extension was built too far out When Coconut Grove was a hippie hangout Sam and Carl's Deli in S Miami Rock concerts at Miami Jai Alai stadium Sunniland Pony Rides Land Crabs on Old Cutler The diving board and dock at Matheson Hammock pond Barefoot Mailman at Dadeland Bill Haas and the Serpentarium Concerts at the Miami Marine Stadium Sunday country dancing at Alabama Jack's Tyler's Restaurant Live & Let Live drug store Engel's Drug Store in Grove When S Beach was just below 5th Street Food Fair Pantry Pride Piggly Wiggly Fla. License with Letters depicting size of car The Miami Springs Villas Miami Seahawks pro football team Red Cross Drugs in downtown Miami King Arthur's Court in Miami Springs Men's Grill at Burdines Richard's Bargain Basement The Round Table restaurant on US1 near UM Royal Castle hamburgers @ 15 cents, root beer 5 cents Jimmy's Hurricane drive-in on Bird Black Caesar's Forge in South Dade "Yes, We Have No Bananas" Bus riding all over the county with paper transfers getting punched The black beach on Virginia Key Greynolds Park hill...the highest point in Dade County Only two highways north: US 1 and 27 Warning signs about roasting marshmallows with oleander sticks Cuban crisis; missile silos in ground all over south Dade All rental cars had E license tags Tags had number for county size: Dade 1, Liberty 67 Chalk Airlines and Goodyear Blimp base on Watson Island Seasonal arrival of buzzard colonies atop Courthouse Burdines installing the state's first escalator The caves at Venetian Pool Absolutely nothing west of the airport until Doral Orange Bowl: HS football Thursday nights, UM Friday nights The par-54 night-lighted golf course on South Dixie Highway The paper man downtown who had no legs and rolled around on a piece of board and skate wheels. The shoeshine boys downtown near Richards Dept Store The huge Christmas display at the Holsum Baker on US1

charlis		29-Aug-2009 17:22
jeff... will do...

Jeff		29-Aug-2009 01:51
Charlis... You have my email address... drop me a line and tell me about the computer... if it's something I can use and has legit software (along with a backup CD), I might be interested... Whitebelt emailed me a ton of help... but I still think it's the power supply...

charlis		28-Aug-2009 22:58
Jeff.... Hansen... My favorite place to buy music! I still have the books and sheet music! And, don't forget the WKAT was just around the corner from Nu-Art... wish I had stopped back here earlier, as to your computer problems... I built a computer for Evie a few years ago... I set it up for her... she moved and never used the thing... she is looking to sell it.

charlis		28-Aug-2009 22:42
Jeff... I've been busy elsewhere but had a few moments... radio stations and Larry King... In 1968 when my now ex was a senior at Beach, he got to work with Larry at the station... something to do with the new thing about working with a pro for a day. A year or two later he went out with a co-worker at Carner Bank and repo'd King's car... a Toyota. Hope all is well.

Jeff		28-Aug-2009 17:06
To correct myself, the man's name was Reuben Clein (with a "C")... his newspaper was described as "running ads for Burley-Q houses and female impersonator shows" and "homo-baiting"... It WAS Clein who was bopped on the head by Barry Gray (according to a Feb. 1, 1950 article in the St. Petersburg Times). In Miami Beach Municipal Court, Gray charged Clein with assault and battery, and Clein counter-charged with assualt with a deadly weapon (the microphone). Clein spent 30 days in jail during 1950 on a contempt charge for publishing articles that closely reflected some grand jury testimony - because he refused to disclose his sources to the court. Another of his rants was againt the State Attorney for integrating his office. He ran for sherriff again incumbent Tom Kelly, accusing him of lying under oath, promoting integration, wife beating and homosexual acts. Kelly countered that those allegations were dismissed by a grand jury during the previous campaign for re-election. It seems this was during a strong period of "anti-homosexual" politics in the city of Miami (circa 1950). Clein died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 83 in Las Vegas. He'd retired there in 1965. According to an obituary run in the NY Times, he's wom Miami Life in a card game in 1931.

Jeff		28-Aug-2009 16:33
Miami has been known for decades for its generous helping of oddballs, weirdos, political gadflies, corrupt officials and colorful characters... Reuben Klein was the owner and publisher of Miami Life, a tabloid style gossip sheet. He was famous - or infamous - as a troblemaker and a muckraker. According to one source, he was a former boxer and fancied the "Western" look, complete with a fuzzy beard. He railed against anything that displeased him, and one of his enemies managed to shoot him. Klein survived the attack to live to the ripe old age of 83. Reuben Klein is "credited" as being the cause of departure for Barry Gray from the South Florida broadcasting scene during the golden days of Miami Beach nightlife. Barry Gray was the originator of talk radio (before Alan Courtney refined it) and did a live broadcast for [then] WMIE (now WQBA) at three different nightclubs on Miami Beach around 1948-50 (The Jewel Box, the Beachcomber and Copa City)... One night at Copa City, Gray was doing his usual show when he got into an altercation with a patron (reputed to be Klein). The next thing that listeners heard was a loud "thump" and shortly after that 30 seconds of dead air. When his mike was turned back on, Gray openly confessed to hitting someone over the head with his microphone. Pressure from that incident caused Gray to return to NY where he had a distinguished career for 30+ years. Klein remained a thorn in many people's side.

Jeff		28-Aug-2009 03:38
I just found this site detailing a more recent history of staions in the Miami-Ft. Lauderdale area and some of their staffers: http:// 440.com/ miami.html Remove the spaces, as I'd placed them there because [sometimes] my posts don't show when I add links... According to another site, Larry King got his start at WAHR (Miami Beach) on May 1, 1957. If you go to the Wikipedia page http: // en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WMBM (again, removing any spaces) you will not only read about how WMBM started as WAHR, but at the bottom of the page you can click on a number of station frequencies or call letters to get a detailed history of the stations... better than I could offer in a hundred posts...

Jeff		28-Aug-2009 03:03
Glad you are enjoying the radio memories, Ray... I take it you were a chief engineer at one point? The chief engineer for WMBM-WBUS in the 70's was Les Goldberg. He owned Everything Audio in North Miami Beach for a number of years. I may be wrong...but I think "The Bus" went on the air around 1969... When WMBM tore down their front building to build new studios and offices in the early 70's, I poked around in the rubble and found some old tape reels and some 78 RPM sound effects records rubber stamped "WFEC" on them! They probably "inherited" a lot of the old stuff from WFEC when they dropped their R&B format... I knew DJ's Jeff Walker and Vanilla Williams and production man Ed Gurion. Her daughter (Lynn) recorded for TK. Vanilla was so sweet... she used to let me sit in as she did her show and watch the goings-on. Sadly, she passed away from cancer years ago. Another "lady of the airwaves" who did a show on WMBM was Blanche Calloway - Cab Calloway's sister! I was a bit of a "radio junkie" back them, hoping to one day be a DJ until a reality check - hearing myself on tape - made me realize that I had a better face for radio than voice! I also hung out at WMYQ, having wheedled my way into the station as a volunteer (for about a year) until a management change blew off all of the volunteer staffers. So much for working my way into ANY kind of a job there... However, I got to know mostof the staff and on-air people... Lee Abrams, Robert W. Walker, Phil Flowers, Johnny Dark, J. Michael Stone (Dave Sousa), Jim Kelly, Roby Yonge, Kevin Malloy; Production Manager Ed Reynolds...News Director Robert Criswell...Production Assistants Marty Berstell and Rick Elliot, Salesman (and former DJ) Bob Gordon, traffic department personnel Evye Kapp and Diane Raymond... (running out of full names here...) Station manager was Russ and his secretary was Marcia...

Ray		28-Aug-2009 01:56
Jeff mentioned Dave Graveline. Still in Miami Lakes and doing a show called "Into Tomorrow" http://www.graveline.com/ While it's heard all over the world, it's not in on the air in Miami. But you can still listen from that web page. Somewhere I have a one-page listing of all the call signs used in the Miami market. Done by Ray Meyers, a long time radio engineer here in Miami. I remember working with him to take down the old WBUS transmitter from the roof of the Deauville Hotel. I think it went back on the air as WDNA's first transmitter. Does anyone else remember when they hit the age when WQAM and WFUN just weren't cool any more and you just had to listen to WSHE? One of the signs you're getting old: That Oldies station you used to hate starts playing some good music.

Ray		28-Aug-2009 01:45
Thanks for all the awesome radio memories. I have to throw in a call sign, maybe the one with the least changes... WVUM, We're the Voice of the University of Miami, 90.5 FM in Coral Gables. Been the same since 1968. I was there between 1978-84. I'm trying to make wvum.com the sort of alumni site. WVCG AM, Voice of Coral Gables, used to transmit from behind the Qwik Check at Bird and 67 Ave. The studios were on Alhambra Circle. I remember at Red and Bird, if I worked on anything electronic, it would start picking up WVCG because I was so close to it. I think in the early 80s it moved out to an 8 tower site on the Trail west of Krome. I remember the WKAT studios. I got a tour and said something to the effect 'nice that you still keep this old tube audio amp lit up'. Turns out the amp was STILL the speaker amp. They had 3 generations of transmitter there. The backups were a 1950s Westinghouse and the first one... made by the first engineer, no brand name, could still go on the air. Oh so many cool radio memories and history. Keep them coming. Ray

Jeff		27-Aug-2009 20:04
By the way, I never told why I was even hanging around WKAT... I used to try and snag old recordings (commercials, etc.) on disk and would also "dumpster dive" for reels of recording tape that were thrown out so I could re-use them with my trusty old Wollensak tape recorder. Additionally, down the street from WKAT was Hansen Publications... a printer of music books. I made a friend or two there, and also would "dumpster dive" for scrap paper to draw on. I clearly remember lugging home via bicycle a big, heavy pile of coated paper - which was tough to use with some mediums because of the "glossy" surface... Chip Hansen (the owner's son) and I would occasionally go bike riding together. I was quite the scavenger/collector as a teenager and I guess I still am, to a point. In my limited apartment space, I still have my collection of vintage lettering stencils and my CD music collection, along with a moderate assortment of vintage art and office supplies... but the things I'd parted with over the years could fill a museum... and sometimes I STILL miss the darned things! My biggest regret is somehow parting with a metal "wire" display rack for those old stencils. That was over 30 years ago, and I haven't seen one since. During my early days on this blog I used to solicit the posters for old itesm. Martha Pierson was the only one who actually had anything, including a cool wooden ruler from Skagseth Office Supplies...

Mike Tripp		27-Aug-2009 17:37
Charles - yes, Art did have a son named Roger.

Charles Knight		27-Aug-2009 17:15
Jeff and Mike,Art Smith...Did he have two sons? One named Roger? I went to Miami High with Roger Smith, and his father was some exec. @ the Museum of Science. We would sometimes visit the observatory on the roof.

Jeff		27-Aug-2009 16:12
You may be right, Mike... I wouldn't be the one to know...

Mike Tripp		27-Aug-2009 15:27
Jeff - If my memory serves me at all, Muzak (elevator music) went out via a landline and Melody was broadcast.

Jeff		27-Aug-2009 15:20
Whitebelt... I kept with Windows 98 because I believe "if it ain't broke, don't fix it"! Necessity is making me move it up a notch, but I still despise the bloated and problematic Vista. I appreciate your kind offer, but I have all of the parts for the computer here with the exception of the replacement power supply. I prefer a desktop because of my graphic design work, and I just don't like the "feel" of a laptop... I'm looking for a legit copy of XP software that someone could spare, as I have another (working) computer I received from someone with a "copied" version of the XP Pro version software on it. As a creative persion and a super-honest individual, I respect copyrights - and I don't want to use a computer with pirated software on it. That's my philosophy, and I never waiver from it, despite the comments others have made about me being "too honest". If you were inclined to ship me the power supply and CD-RW drive, I would be happy to reimburse you for the costs - we can discuss that if you send me an email at jnl1952 (at) juno (dot) com. Michael Tripp - glad to have refreshed your memory about Art Smith and Forrest Ashworth. I guess being a human "compendium of useless information" has its benefits at times... LOL! I well remember the Muzak office. It was on the left side of the lobby as you entered. As you probably well know, Muzak (the folks who brought you "elevator music") went bankrupt this year.

Michael Tripp		27-Aug-2009 15:04
Jeff - Thanks for reminding me of Art Smith and Forrest Ashworth. Back in the late '50s, I worked for a short period of time for Melody/Musak (out of WKAT). Art Smith was a long time personal friend of my family and was very active with the 'Southern Star Astronomical Society' as well as the Miami Science Museum. My mother painted the old Pan Am globe at the entrance to the museum in the early '70's.

whitebelt		27-Aug-2009 14:00
Jeff, you are in a very specialized niche of the computer world. I have pulled many, many computers out of the trash and rebuilt them. Mostly out of necessity and a lot out of just tinkering. Haven't had a new one since my first one in 1995 and a eMachine I bought in 1999. Hard disk storage has always been the major issue I had with them. Have finally settled down to a couple of laptops I got very cheaply. You can get them cheap nowadays. You are just getting around to XP now? I started out with DOS and Windows 3.1, went to OS/2 for a few years, then Windows 98, then Windows 2000, XP, Vista, and have finally settled on Ubuntu linux. I have one laptop I dual boot them on with 1.5 GB of RAM. The Vista is about 27 GB just of operating system and stretches the RAM quite often. The linux is about 7 GB of operating system and never touches the swap file. It also does a lot more than the Vista system does. Plus it is free, not that I have ever paid for Windows or its programs in a very long time. :-) I recently threw away a few boxes of power supplies, CDROMs, ZIP drives, monitors, memory, and various other parts and tons of software I have collected over the years. I am amazed at the room I now have. You can get a decent laptop for $300 now. The new little netbooks, or refurbished larger ones from Microcenter and others. I have an old Compaq Presario my son bought for me refurbished for $300 a year and a half ago. You would not believe the changes and use it has been through and is still going strong. Using it now. You can interchange many power supplies. Pretty much if the connector fits it will work. Minor adaptations as far as fan power supplies and on/off switches, but push come to shove you can get it working. I have an old desktop with XP I would send you, but it would cost almost as much to ship from New Mexico than to buy a much newer one from WalMart.

Jeff		27-Aug-2009 06:02
Yes it was... and its music director was Curtis Schwartz - the cousin of songwriter Melvin Schwartz who wrote "Baby Talk" - a hit for Jan and Dean in 1958... However, the "BUS" [as I'd stated before] originally stood for "business" in the stations early days. Remember, FM was a bit of a novelty in the 1950's and early 1960's...

Charles Knight		27-Aug-2009 05:02
Hey Jeff, WBUS was a free form FM rock station in the late sixties early seventies that became known as the "Magic Bus" after the popular song of the same name by The Who.

Jeff		27-Aug-2009 02:36
Some sad news from the music world... and another sign that we're all getting older... Ellie Greenwich - who [with her ex-husband Jeff Barry] and other songwriters (including Phil Spector) co-wrote and produced tons of hits in the 60's - passed away today. She was 68. She and Jeff Barry also recorded as "The Raindrops". Greenwich died of a heart attack at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital in NY - she was admitted a few days earlier for treatment of pneumonia. Some of the songs she'll be remembered for are: Chapel of Love River Deep - Mountain High Leader of the Pack Da Do Ron Ron Be My Baby (Today I Met) The Boy I'm Gonna Marry Why Do Lovers Break Each Others' Hearts? Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) Baby, I Love You What A Guy The Kind Of Boy You Can't Forget Hanky Panky Do Wah Diddy I Can Hear Music

Jeff		27-Aug-2009 02:09
Bob Green broadcast on WINZ when it tried the rock and roll format. After his divorce from Anita Bryant, he seemed to have dropped out of sight. He was one of the DJ's who gave bookings to my former boss - Steve Alaimo and his band, the Redcoats back in 1959. Whitebelt... try watching ebay and/or Amazon.com for that 45. There's also an international site called music stack. As for computer hassles... I feel ya! A friend just sent down from Illinois the internal parts for me to build a "newer" [as in XP over Windows 98] computer for myself, and the beautiful case I'd found and salvaged had a bad power supply. To add insult to injury, a "spare" power supply I had in a box was also bad... so now I have to wait (because of my tight budget) until I can get another power supply free or on the cheap... Sometimes you just can't win for losing! With computer font sales being down because of the summer doldrums and the present economy, I've barely made rent and utilities so far for this month... I won't even go into what DIDN'T get covered by sales...

Miami River Rat		27-Aug-2009 01:53
Sorry to hear about Butterball's diabetes. He had the coolest sign-off ever. About sundown he'd come with "As the sun sets on the golden sands and sparkling waters of the Nation's Playground, we come to the end of another broadcasting day.", with that up-beat instrumental music in the background that was his theme music. Anybody else remember Bob Green, who was a great Miami R& R personality in the late '50's? He sponsored sock-hops at Bayfront Park Auditorium that were very popular. One I went to had over 8,000 in attendance, which was said to be the biggest sock-hop in the nation that year. Guy I knew named Cary got cut real bad in a fight that night, right there on the lawn in front of the auditorium. Later, Bob Green quit the DJ business to manage Anita Bryant, a former Miss America that he married.

whitebelt		27-Aug-2009 01:01
Oh, that was a very difficult one to find. Wound up with 2 live recordings. One sounded very close to the original. But you wanna hear a sad story? I went hunting for it to hear it again on my computer after posting, but it appears I may have lost it while doing some major league backing up, and operating system changes. I had 12 GB of wma music, and I may not have filed it away properly on backups. I have 3 other computers that I sincerely hope it still exists on. I hate doing that.

Jeff		27-Aug-2009 00:49
That Buddy Greco single must have been a tough one to find... According to the Joel Whitburn book "Top Pop: 1955-1982", Greco only charted ONE single... the first recording of Mr. Lonely (Sept. 22, 1962). It was on the charts for 11 weeks and only made it to 64 on the Billboard "Hot 100"...

Jeff		27-Aug-2009 00:44
Alfred (Martinez) was on WKAT. Larry King broadcast from the "Surfside Six" houseboat for WIOD... although King had been on either WMET or WBAY years earlier. He left Miami after defaulting on some debts to local friends. You'd have figured with all the money he's since made he would have tried to wipe that slate clean? Don't hold your breath. That's OLD news... Speaking of "talkers", Alan Courtney (the pioneer of the radio "talk" show) started his local reign on WQAM. WKAT went all-talk in the early-to-mid 1960's. The coolest thing was that they still broadcast from their 1930's studios on Bay Road on Miami Beach, and still used much of the vintage equipment they had for decades! Even their staffers were their forever - or so it seemed... Art Smith was their chief engineer, and Forest Ashworth was their production director - both with around 40 years with the station by the time the 70's rolled around. Dave Graveline and Sonny Hirsch were two more names who worked at the "Kat". Graveline was a producer/board operator and Hirsch was sports director.

whitebelt		26-Aug-2009 23:53
I used to listen to WKAT in the evenings back in the mid 60's. Was a cool station. Developed a taste for Frank Sinatra, Buddy Greco, and some other "popular" music other than rock. They had a guy named Alfred that did a talk show in the evening. Was a neat and intellectual station at the time. I think it was WKAT, anyhow. Think Larry King was on it back then later in the evening, also. I remember loving Buddy Greco's version of My Satin Doll. That tune went through my head for decades. Finally located a copy on the net after a few years searching for it.

Jeff		26-Aug-2009 18:14
Oh, how stupid can I be? WMIE/WQBA's FM station was WEDR - a top contender against WMBM in the R&B market... the progressive rock program was an evening or weekend thing they experimented with... Geez... trivia overload!

Jeff		26-Aug-2009 18:11
Thanks for jogging my memory, Mike... WVCG and WVCG-FM/WYOR-FM... The was also WIII/WRSD (Radio South Dade) in Homestead and as previously mentioned WVOE (Voice of the Everglades), located in a tiny building just off Alligator Alley about midway between Miami and Naples. WAEZ later went country as WOAH and here I correct myself. THIS station was what was previously WFEC. WWOK was on another frequency altogether. WMIE/WQBA had an FM station that I can't recall for the life of me. In the 70's it played progressive (album) rock and one of the DJ's was Bo Crane... Help me out, somebody, please? On the Broward side there was WFTL (once owned by Storer, later owned by "King Paul" of Monarch Dodge), WRBD (Rockin' Big Daddy) and their FM-WCKO, which evolved into WMJX (Majic 102.7 - the current oldies station in South Florida)... WSRF and WSHE-FM (both having previous call letters), WEXY and WAXY-FM (WAXY being sold to RKO, who first automated is as an oldies station, then it went live, with Rick Shaw as Perogram Director for years)... On and on...

Mike Tripp		26-Aug-2009 16:07
I remember (back in the '40's, prior to the days of stereo FM) when WVCG in the Gables broadcast stereo. Required two radios, one AM and the other FM side-by-side. Was very interesting.

Jeff		26-Aug-2009 15:25
Whoops! I totally forgot to mention WCKR. They were on the air for about three years (circa 1960-62) and in reality was WIOD as a rock and roll station (they reclaimed the WIOD call letters after they dropped rock and roll). Rick Shaw got his Miami start at that station. According to his story, when he arrived at the station (from St. Louis, MO) he introduced himself to the station manager... "Hi, I'm Jim Hummel"... The station manager replied "No, you're Rick Shaw. I've always wanted a DJ named Rick Shaw"... and a local legend was born. For those of you who never got the pun connection: Rick Shaw/rickshaw... a Chinese transportation vehicle. As for WAME (the correct call letters, Don..."WAME in Miami")... you may be right about the rock and roll. I was a little tyke in NY during those days, so I have to take your word for it... but something else pops into my mind... I once saw an old photo with a bus bench advertising the Cracker Jim show... and I think it was on WAME... so the station must of had a flexible format... OK... I'm going to try and stretch my memory bank of useless trivia... Here's some past radio stations. When I can corrolate a transition, I'll use a / to show the station and its call changes (any corrections or additions are welcome): WWPB/WOCN (WWPB stood for Paul Brake, Station owner) WSKP-FM ("Skipper", Paul Brake's nickname) WFEC/WWOK (FEC was Florida East Coast, NOT affiliated with the railroad) WAEZ WGBS (a George B. Storer station) WGBS-FM/WJHR/WMYQ/WPOW WFUN (a Rounsaville Radio station) WQAM (a Todd Storz station. Storz is credited with inventing the "Top 40" format) WINZ (Rex Rand - nicknamed "Sexy Rexy" because of his dashing good looks) WKAT (A. Frank Katzentine; then his widow owned the station for decades) WTMI/WKAT-FM WIOD/WCKR/WIOD ("Wonderful Isle of Dreams" - a Cox Newspapers station) WAHR/WMET/WBAY (possibly the predecessors to WMBM -"Miami Beach-Miami") WMBM WBUS/WWLV-FM (Love 94 Smooth Jazz) (BUS originally stood for "Business", as in business reports. I think this station was also known as WLRD (Lincoln Road) WMIE/WQBA I know there's others - I'm just tapped out at the moment...

Leighton		26-Aug-2009 14:52
I like that WCKR promo idea, RPH. Jeff - Let's hope Mr. Urinal doesn't mistakenly turn on his cell cam, and give some friends a "little" surprise. (D'OH!!!!!)

Arizona Al		26-Aug-2009 14:09
I fondly recall 3 Miami AM Radio Stations that I listened to from the time I was 10 (1955) until I left Miami at age 23 in 1969. The venable WQAM and the pretenders to the throne, WCKR and WFUN. I hate to admit but I still remember the on air "jingles" such as "Happy WCKR" and "High tide, low tide, water ski, surfside, WFUN Yo Ho Radio" and who could forger "560 WQAM Miami"? Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona.

Roberta Perry Hughes		26-Aug-2009 07:04
WCKR..."Wacky...! W-C-K-R...!" was another rock 'n roll radio station; however, it may have been short-lived, as it couldn't compete with WQAM & WFUN...? Even so, I remember when it debuted, ca. 1960, & they had an ongoing TV ad, that stated for you to call them up, sing their little call letters jingle, then, state your name & phone number, & listen to the radio...on their station, of course...to see if you recognized your voice. If you thought it was you, you had so many minutes to call, & identify yourself, & if the singing voice was yours, you won a prize....usually, a record album. Does anyone remember that station, & that contest? Jeff...how long did they stay on the airwaves...?

Don Boyd		26-Aug-2009 06:46
LMartin: thank you for posting a link to this site in the links section of the LimestoneLounge site. Jeff: small correction, but I remember Whammy (WAMI-AM) playing rock and roll as a competitor to WQAM somewhere in the 1959 to 1962 time frame. They were daylight only and their transmitter site was just north of where Westland Mall is now, east of the Palmetto Bypass and close to my Miami News route but out in the sticks. One of the engineers there subscribed for a while and he used to let me push the button that shut down their transmitter when the sun went down. I think WAMI did the rock and roll bit before WFUN switched to rock and roll when they moved from 800 to 790 on the dial around 1961 or 1962. Speaking of WFUN, I discovered a WFUN-TV today on digital channel 48 when hooking up a TV tuner on my wife's PC. It is a lower power station in North Dade near 441 but I can receive it. The FCC info on the station is at: http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?call=WFUN Jenne: there is a photo of the Jahn's on Sunny Isles on this site in the restaurants gallery in the 1962 time frame. No one has a contributed a photo of the restaurant on Miracle Mile yet. Don

Jeff		26-Aug-2009 04:11
According to some local pyschologists, it was more of a kneejerk reaction out of shock than an indifference to help. Thankfully, two individuals did step up to do the right thing, but by then, her injuries were quite severe. I had the same feeling of "unbelievable" when I saw the cel phones out, but this is also a symptom of the disconnected world we live in... Cel phones DO have a purpose... but that purpose was to be a mobile phone line for emergency and necessity, NOT dragging your conversations around with you. I keep telling my friend, if I EVER get rich, one of the first things I'm gonna do is buy some space on a billboard facing I-95 with the following word copy: "You're NOT that important! Shut the F*** up and DRIVE!!!" [and that word WOULD be there!] I stopped going to movies in part because of cel phones, but you can't walk down a street, go shopping, go to a restaurant or even to a public bathroom without some self-centered jackass is yakking on a cel phone... Picture [if you will], some idiot at a urinal - holding a cel phone with his shoulder while holding onto other things at the same time... Pathetic!

Leighton		26-Aug-2009 02:47
Seeing reports of people TAKING PICTURES of the burning woman was equally disturbing - apparently more clicked their cell phone cameras, than attempted to assist in any way. Yes, San Antonio built its outdated-at-completion Alamodome (not a dome) with tax money (one of former Mayor Cisneros's many "white elephants"), only to have the Spurs (who ended up there eventually) get the county to build a more updated facility, away from downtown. It now supposedly costs more to keep up than it makes (though paid for).

Jeff		26-Aug-2009 00:01
Just a postscript about that incident at the Mall of the Americas (Midway Mall)... The woman was emotionally unstable, and had a past police record as well. She took her reasons with her to the grave, and [sadly] it's just part of the continued craziness that has permeated our area over the years. The latest bit of madness is the current County Mayor (Carlos Alvarez)... while citing budget constraints because of the current economy and the need for both employee pay cuts and layoffs - he managed to find enough money to give some of his staffers overly-ample pay RAISES! This, follwing the collusion of the City of Miami and the County to subsidize the new Marlins Stadium on the site of the old Orange Bowl. I'm not a sports fan... but even some die-hard sports nuts agree with me... stadiums should be paid for by private funding, NOT public tax revenue. All the while, we are facing dropping property values, property tax increases, services cuts... no raises of teachers and the City of Coral Gables just announced that it wants a 7% pay cut for its police force... Some officers are already looking for other jobs! So, you miss the old Miami? we ALL do... even those who are still here...

Leighton		25-Aug-2009 21:41
So, I AM visible! Wasn't sure, CK. Didn't much listen to the radio, as a kid. Mom always had Herb Alpert playing on the stereo. We were close to Midway Mall, but we never went - was always kinda dumpy. It was solely Dadeland for us.

lmartin		25-Aug-2009 20:58
For those with an interest in Miami music try this site:http://limestonelounge.yuku.com/ If you like stuff other than music go to the Off Topic link and you will be surprised by the amount of information.

Jeff		25-Aug-2009 19:21
Miami River Rat: You heard those stations because at night most local broadcasters changed their transmitting power, and "clear channel" 100,000 watt stations used to permeate the airwaves. I remember hearing 77 WABC from NY at night... Randy's Record Shop was owned by Randy Wood, who founded Dot Records (and recorded Pat Boone, The Chantay's, Johnnie Maddox, The Hilltoppers, Gale Storm, Lawrence Welk and numerous other performers). Milt Oshins' brother (Bert) was a promoter. Butterball died a number of years ago, after first suffering amputation because of the diabetes taking over his body. The big stations in the late 1950's-early 60's were WQAM (Rock and Roll), WINZ (Rock and Roll, later Easy Listening), WAME (R&B), WFEC (R&B), WFUN (Rock and Roll), WKAT (Talk) and in Broward the big R&B station was WRBD (Rockin' Big Daddy)... Carlton "King Coleman" held court at WFEC. He's still alive and well, and was my late mother's down-the-hall neighbor in North Miami! It would take a page or so to trace down and annotate all of the station call letter and format changes. On another note, even though UHF TV barely made a foothold in South Florida (the most successful being WITV-Channel 17; for five years), a number of stations now in use were planned for this area. Some ran broadcast tests, most never took to the airwaves.

Charles Knight		25-Aug-2009 12:20
The Hairy Eyeball in South Miami, The Glass Onion, 87th & SW 8 th St. There were more I'm sure. Any body read about the woman that set herself on fire at the old Midway Mall last week? Horrible.

Miami River Rat		25-Aug-2009 04:39
I remember listening to Milt Oshins. There were really only four stations I listened to during high school years. The two black (R&B) stations were great. Butterball and "T.J. the DJ" are a couple of personalities I remember. Then there was the country station, "Voice of the Everglades Empire" from Belle Glade. They were good. For some reason, after midnight WLAC from Nashville would come in loud and clear with the "Randy's Record Shop" show. The DJ's there were Hoss Allen, "The Rockin' Hoss Man" and later, in the wee hours John R would take over. At daylight WLAC would fade out but late night with those guys was fantastic. The ads were fun too, with John R. talkin' trash Like: "All you teenagers out there keep some Royal Crown Hair Dressing in your car's glove compartment, just in case something comes up." I mail ordered a lot of records from Randy's in Gallatin, Tenn., and they always did a good job.

Jeff		25-Aug-2009 02:54
There was also a record shop called Happy Note which also sold t-shirts outdoors. Happy Note was co-owned by the late Milt Oshins; ex-brother-in-law to music impresario Henry Stone (Tone Record Distributors, TK Records). Milt used to be a DJ on locale R&B station WAME "WAM-E"...

Goatboy		25-Aug-2009 01:03
I know who started those riots at Virginia Key! It was those boys at Communist Martyrs High School!

Goatboy		25-Aug-2009 01:01
Re: Kent...*Grand Ave

Kent Carpenter		25-Aug-2009 00:42
LARGO: Before it was Yucky's it was called Symposium in Sound, right on the Main HWY. of that little mall that went from the HWY to Drand ave. on the other side. There was another little t-shirt/head shop in the too. (can't remember the name) Charles: Who could EVER forget the free concerts on Virginia Key?!! Those were the BEST till "someone" started a riot with the Metro Cops. And that was the end of it. Wouldn't know WHO that someone might be!!!

LARGO		22-Aug-2009 15:19
YOU KNOW...I WAS WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO MENTION..."YUCKY'S" TOBACCO EMPORIUM..@ 3418 MAIN HWY IN THE GROVE...HUMMMMM..LARGO

Charles Knight		22-Aug-2009 04:44
Alright...Who gave Leighton the mushrooms!?

Leighton		21-Aug-2009 05:01
The invisibility machine is WORKING.

Jeff		21-Aug-2009 02:29
Once, while hitchhiking in the 70's, a guy gave me a list who claimed he was a member of Fantasy... but who could prove that?!! Fantasy was one of a number of Miami-based acts of the 60's... Steve Alaimo, Wayne Cochran, Fantasy, The Clefs of Lavender Hill, The Heroes of Cranberry Farm (formerly The Squiremen) who all had records chart... but not always as a big hit outside of their local demographic area... The Clefs of Lavender Hill were leased to CBS's Date imprint with "Stop! And Get A Ticket", The Heroes of Cranberry Farm were leased to a Jamie/Guyden imprint (trhe name escapes me right now)... Steve Alaimo released music on Checker, Imperial, Atco and Entrance... Then there were "hometown heroes" such as H.M.S. Subjects (plugged by Morton [Doc] Downey, Jr. on WFUN), The Savage Lost, Larry Stang's MEthod (a/k/a Broadway Park) and so on...

Charles Knight		21-Aug-2009 02:13
Jeff, I saw (or remember seeing) Fantasy (Stoned Cowboy) among others, man I loved those Hippy girls and free love LOL! The really funny thing is that the members of Fantasy live here now and write for the local music rag!

Jeff		20-Aug-2009 20:30
Charles... You are not wrong about the Miami Beach concerts in the early 1970's... they were "lawn concerts" on the grass in front of the Miami Beach Convention Hall (long gone when they expanded the complex). I attended three of them that I recall... Dion DiMucci, Alive and Kicking (they had the hit "Tighter and Tighter") and the beginning of the farewell tour of the comedy team Allen and Rossi...

Charles Knight		20-Aug-2009 05:36
I don't doubt you're correct about the "Joint" but there was "Four way Street" on Main, and a little head shop in the Arcade as well, anyone remember the free concerts in Peacock and Love parks. Greynolds and itchycoo were in the sixties and seventies, I seem to remember going to free concerts in Miami Beach as well...I must have been there because the memories are quite vague!

Leighton		19-Aug-2009 02:27
And regarding the Biltmore Hotel. My dad was a preacher in Miami in the late 60s/early 70s, and I'd accompany him, when he visited folks at the, then, VA hospital. It was somewhat creepy for a kid. Wasn't Peter Jennings one of the investors for its restoration in the 80s? (Later bought out.) I haven't seen the more recent upgrade, just the 80s version. Just checked out the web site - WOW. I'm guessing that it caters to South Americans??

Leighton		19-Aug-2009 02:04
Those shops are still around in some cities, albeit in another form. San Antonio/Austin have the Planet K stores. Well, Austin is a given.

Charles Knight		18-Aug-2009 17:50
The promoters name is Michael Lang and he did some concerts in Miami as well, he brought Jimi Hendrix to Gulfstream park for one.

Arizona Al		18-Aug-2009 16:52
Goat Boy and Guest: Circa 1967 there were several "hippy" establishments in the Grove and I can recall two of them. ( I know, if you can remember the 1960s you were not really there). One was The Joint and the other was called Motherloads which not only sold paraphenalia but also clothes and trinkets from the hippy subculture. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona and still in recovery from the "Grove Experience" 1967-1969

Guest		18-Aug-2009 14:13
I think the headshop was called The Joint

GoatBoy		18-Aug-2009 02:17
P.S., y'all can email me at goatboy@halebobb.com (does this thing do HTML?) mailto:goatboy@halebobb.com

GoatBoy		18-Aug-2009 02:14
Since it's the 40th anniversary of Woodstock and since the dude who thought it up had a head shop in Coconut Grove, I was wondering if anyone knew the name of this head shop & if it was the Octopus' Garden next to Lum's in that old house?

LARGO		17-Aug-2009 11:26
NO WORRIES CHARLES...I LIVED @ 4000 NW 6th ST. FROM AGE 3 TO 10..WONDER IF THAT OLD HOUSE IS STILL THERE..DAD BOUGHT IT FOR $7K IN '48...THEN TO S MIAMI ..TO FINISH OUT ELEM.SCH. @ PINECREST THEN TO SOUTHWEST JR HI FOR 7TH GR...THEN PALMETTO JR. SR. HI...THEN THEY BUILT A PALMETTO JR HI...WHEN I WENT TO KINLOCH..IN N. MIAMI..THERE WERE NO GANGS THAT I KNEW OF...I MEAN I WAS AGE 6 TO 10 ('55)...FROM 3rd GR ON I RODE MY BIKE TO SCHOOL..IT WAS A DIFFERENT MIAMI...I REMEMBER MY FRIENDS..TYPICAL PEANUTS GANG.. ON OUR BIKES...HEADING TO CLIMB THOSE HUGE TREES NEAR FLAGLER DOG TRACK..THEY WERE BANYANS I BELIEVE...I FELL OUT OF ONE ...BUT SURVIVED...LOL...THOSE WERE THE GOOD OLE DAYS...WE WERE NEVER FAT...ALWAYS OUT PLAYING FROM AM TO PM...

Charles Knight		17-Aug-2009 05:20
Largo, let me correct myself, the trees beside Flagler Dog track were on the east side along Douglas (37thAve) obviously LeJune is 10 or so blocks west...Sorry Charlie.

Miami River Rat		17-Aug-2009 00:44
I attended Kensington Park Elementary, I'm thinking 1949-ish. That was the first year the school was there and the buildings were all one-room portables. I went to Kinloch Park Jr. High, finished there in 1957. Belonged to the gang "Black Scorpions". Not so many Latinos there at that time. Maybe Kinloch and gangs just went together. During those years I lived just off the North Fork of the Miami River, NW 28th ave and 17th street. Moved out to "the sticks" for High School. SW 26th street and 59th ave. and went to Southwest. I don't recall too many scary places. Scary people and scary happenings aplenty, but scary places aren't coming to me. I've got a cool story to tell about the blimp hangers at Richmond Field, but that can wait for another day, See ya'!

Charles Knight		16-Aug-2009 03:50
Largo, that was a little before my time but I did attend Kinloch in the early 70s and the gangs there were scary! I was nearly killed twice just for being a "Gringo". Where did you grow up? We lived on NW 34th Ave. and 7th St. Approx. five blocks east of Flagler Dog Track. I'm not sure if I remember Tates...Was it near Cox's TV repairs? There was also a Ballet supply store there just north of IHOP. Mr. Cox went to Kinloch in the 50s, he now resides in N. Carolina near my best friend (his son Don). I loved hanging out at the dog track, it was dark and desserted, my girlfriend and I used to neck under the trees on the east side adjacent to Le June Rd. It's still there but you had better hable espaniole...Comprende?

LARGO		15-Aug-2009 22:05
DID ANYONE ATTEND KINLOCK PARK ELEMENTARY...circa..heh heh...1951, '56.?...or LIVED IN THE AREA?.......OR REMEMBER 'TATES DRUGSTORE'....ON LEJEUNE R.?.........FLAGLER DOG TRACK WAS A SCARY PLACE WE'D SNEEK INTO AS KIDS........LARGO

Charles Knight		12-Aug-2009 21:27
We would sometimes visit the Old Biltmore Hotel in the Gables prior to it's renovation, it was boarded up and pretty dark inside so we would play hide 'n' seek, I particularly remember the Grand staircase and the pool, the pool was about one third full of stagnant water. All in all I'd give it a ten for scary.

Jeff		12-Aug-2009 04:28
Here's a subject I can actually contribute something to... Back in the 1960's and 1970's I used to volunteer with the Community School program at Ida M. Fisher Junior High (1424 Drexel Avenue) on Miami Beach... There was an old custodian's quarters adjacent to the gymnasium on Pennyslvania Avenue (across from the school complex). It hadn't been used for anything but storage in years, and it went back to the days when the South wing (now demolished) was the original Miami Beach Senior High School. Abe Rochstein was the Community School Director, and he let me unlock the building and poke around in the dark - with nothing more than the ambient light from outside. I actually found a World War II era portion of a Miami Herald (I think it was 1943). Another time, I got to look around some of the classrooms in the South wing - unused since 1960, when the high school relocated to Prairie Avenue). The rooms were dank and musty, and both experiences made me wonder about the people and activities that took place there years before. On 6th Street and Alton Road was a fenced-off area next to the Southland Hotel (also long-since demolished for what became a hospital)... Inside the fence was the structure of an old house - with no roof, and completely gutted. I never could find out anything about that house or the people who lived there... but it was one of those great places my friends and I used to explore. Finally, in the mid 60's, at Alton Road and First Street stood a three story building my friends and I poked around. One of them told me it was an abandoned dairy. I stupidly thought to myself "Where do they keep the cows?"... It was in the 1980's - during my days as a phot/nostalgia colelctor that I learned this buiding was the Miami Beach offices and warhouse for Land O'Sun dairies... the company evolved into Farm Stores in the early 1960's. They also had a location in Fort Lauderdale. If my guess is correct, it's just south (on US 1 of the portion of the road that leads to the airport...

Ray		12-Aug-2009 02:44
Just to throw out a new subject starter... what was your favorite childhood scary place? Somewhere in Dade County that you and your friends would go on a dare, for a scare, anything that could give you nightmares. Mine was the old Blimp Base aka, Richmond Naval Air Station, where MetroZoo is now. When I was about 9-12 we would sneak in there and try to find stuff until the MPs found us and kicked us out. When I was about 15, it was the abandoned Tropical Park building. Way before it was renovated. We went up on the roof late one night. If we had stepped a couple more feet we would have fallen through the rotten roof down about 50 feet to the grandstands. We also checked out the small building in the infield where the scores were posted. All very weathered. We were volunteering for the old Haunted House but to those of us that knew the building, the really scary stuff was the old buildings. One I wished I had found sooner, the old Kendall Hospital campus. Even in my 20's that place was scary at night. Today only one building remains and it's about to fall down. One I've heard stories about but I never did: The Biltmore Hotel before the hotel renovations. It was basically an abandoned VA hospital for many years. I know a lot of kids got in at night. I'm sure it was scary... just something about old hospitals is scary movie stuff. I got to see it just as the renovations were starting. I designed a cable tv system there and now I can say I've found all the interesting stuff that remains. But I really wish I had seen it as the old hospital. What places did you find scary as a kid?

Jo-Anne K		11-Aug-2009 20:48
Anybody going to be out looking for meteors late tonight (early Wednesday morning)? Even though the moon is not cooperating this year you should still be able to see some of the Perseids if you can get away from city lights.

Charles Knight		09-Aug-2009 18:09
Alas Parks, I did not. I do know that Smokey Bones has the second best O Rings around (Georges being first). This I do know...Fresh Vidalia onions dipped in Mrs. L's batter. I dipped thousands, it's the batter that was so special!

Parks		09-Aug-2009 03:10
Charles Knight, Did you learn to make the onion rings while you worked at Georges Super Subs? If you tell us, you will make a lot of people happy. I really miss those 9A's.

Roberta Perry Hughes		09-Aug-2009 02:11
AZ AL... The Corey Coughlin I knew had a sister, who was younger than us, by a couple of grades. Also, their family name was NOT pronounced "cough-lin", or "coff-lin", but was pronounced with a "hard" G...as in "cog-lin," if that sheds any light on this subject...? Michael Tripp...I got sidetracked, after my nap, & I do not call anyone after 9 p.m. I will call you later on in the week, I promise, as I have a full plate, right now...

Mike		08-Aug-2009 18:15
Arizona Al- Brian did mention a sister, but I didn't know her name. He may or may not be the same guy, but I should tell you that Brian died a couple years ago. Sorry to bring you bad news if in fact it is the person you knew.

Arizona Al		08-Aug-2009 17:08
Guest: This sounds like the Brian Coughlin that I knew. I was 18 and he was about 12 in 1964. I was a friend of his older sister Carol who was my age at the time. I think there was an older brother named Eddie but not certain. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Guest		08-Aug-2009 15:24
Arizona Al- I worked with a Brian Coughlin in Fort Pierce. He said he grew up in the bird road area in Miami and mentioned a brother named Corey. They were both Vietnam Vets. Brian was my age- I'm 57 now. Mike

Jeff		08-Aug-2009 15:12
Charles, I do believe you were thinking of Exotic Gardens - owned by the Donn family who were own (or owned) Gulfstream Race Track. Jenne... Wikipedia offers some information about Jahn's: http:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jahn's (close up the space between http:// and en. (that's the only way I seem to get links to post)...

Charles Knight		08-Aug-2009 07:13
Jenne, sorry no pictures or menus but Jahn's was great...Always lot's of girls when my buddies and I were teens! Worked as a busboy at George's Super Subs and hung out at Jahn's after, what a hoot! A few years later mom managed a florist across the "Mile" was it "Exotic Florist"? While she was employed there they filmed Cocoon 2. Leighton...Across 57th from Fabulous Diamonds was a U Totem I believe and to the immediate south was an old wooden house with a rather large family. I can't for the life of me remember the last name but the oldest daughter was Cicilia, a pretty blonde that I had the biggest crush on. They were pretty poor and didn't have much which always amazed me because one of the parents was the sibling of the singer Andy Williams (Moon River), and I couldn't understand his not helping them out. I'm sure there was a story behind it but never came to light. Also, as horrible as Andrew was, some good things have happened as a result.

Jenne		08-Aug-2009 02:55
Most of my life, I have heard the story about my parents meeting and falling in love while both working on the Miracle Mile. My dad worked at the theater and my mom worked at Jahn's. I can find tons of information about the theater, but very little about Jahn's. Does anyone have any pictures or a copy of the menu that they could share? I would be very appreciative for the help!

Miami Girl		07-Aug-2009 21:08
AZ Al and Roberta: I love this interaction, it's totally amazing that we can all interact with our past! Thank you Don Boyd. Charles Knight: Those CBS houses built in Cutler Ridge all stood up under Andrew as far as I know -- the house I grew up in built in 1954 only lost the back porch. It's a sin what the builders put up later -- especially in subdivisions like Country Walk that was almost leveled.

Arizona Al		07-Aug-2009 15:57
Roberta: The world is not small...it is flat. Almost incomprehensible that you knew and interacted/associated with two people at ages 8-10 that I knew and associated with at age 15-18 and we are currently sharing this with each other almost 50 years after the fact although we have never met except in cyberspace, My last contact with the "gang" was in 1964 just prior to my joining the Army. Connie was going with Jack Del Barrio who was working at Miami Dade Jr, College and Jerry Boyette was going with Carol Coughlin and was waiting for induction into the Army because he had been drafted. I have not seen or heard from any of them since then. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well and waxing with a bit of nostalgia in Phoenix, Arizona

Roberta Perry Hughes		07-Aug-2009 13:30
Charles Knight... No offense taken. Arizona Al... I went to elementary school (Tropical) with both Connie Sternglanz, & Jerry Boyette, & COREY Coughlin, but did not know Carol or Brian Coughlin. Have not seen nor heard from any of them, since elementary school. I cannot recall any of them going to Riviera Junior High. Roberta, putting faces to the names of schoolmates I once knew, "many moons ago," in S.W. Miami...remembering them at ages 8 to 10 years old. Whee, doggies, but that was a loooooooong time ago...! (>52 years...!)

Leighton		07-Aug-2009 02:03
Our neighborhood didn't have a SINGLE repeated house layout/design in the WHOLE development! Can you imagine that these days?? I did notice that all of the corner lots had the larger ranch homes (like ours - 4 bdrs, 2.5 baths), with smaller "box" houses up and down the street. Our closest landmark, besides the airport (lots of plane noise), was DIAMOND'S......LOVED that place. And, of course, the neighborhood Tom Thumb, Farm Store and U-Totem...Flagler was lined for MILES with apartment complexes.

Charles Knight		06-Aug-2009 23:33
Dearest Roberta, I did not mean to insult you or anyone else. I myself spent my earliest years in a small south Florida "box" home, it's still there and whenever I'm in Miami I try and visit it. I could be wrong but I believe that most homes built prior to 1970 were of superior materials and workmanship, Andrew was proof that this was often the case. I was speaking about the "Port" subdivisions that came later, I drove by two of them today.

Arizona Al		06-Aug-2009 11:59
Roberta: Although I lived and grew up in Cutler Ridge (now referred to as Cutler Bay), I had several friends who went to Southwest High and live in the Mackle Brothers neighborhood of your childhood. Carol and Brian Coughlin, Connie Sternglanz, Jerry Boyette , Jack Del Barrio ,Bobby Hepper and Harolyn Locklair to name a few. Carol and her brother Brian lived at 9920 SW 49th Street. I do not recall the addresses of my other friends. The time period was 1961-1964. Did you happen to know any of these people who I have not seen in over 45 years? Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Leighton		06-Aug-2009 01:58
So, Roberta, you moved before they opened Dadeland - missed it by a year? (I may be wrong on the date.) My childhood was spent off Flagler (1967 - 73) - NW 63rd Court. The neighborhood originally was called Fairlawn when built in the 50s, and I always wondered why our front lawn, at the corner of 2nd, was so huge. It turns out that the intersection was the dead center of the development, and a planned drive-around fountain was never built. The homes were sturdy metal beams and cement, and we had a key lime, two mango, and an avocado tree in our yard. Plus three palms. AND four of those trees with the weird roots growing from branches. ( WHAT are they called?) ALL were recently ripped out, according to one of the mapping/aerial web sites. SAD.

Roberta Perry Hughes		05-Aug-2009 10:21
Charles Knight... Our family DID live in one of those "Mackle houses," from 1952-1961, at 9985 S.W. 55th Street, & we considered ourselves as being "fortunate," to be the first occupants of a brand new home. That home, which was a "cookie cutter" house, exactly like the others in the neighborhood, all painted in powdery pastel colors, or white (ours originally was powder blue, but Daddy painted it a peachy pink, the year before we moved away), was the hub of all of my cherished childhood memories of Our Town. Everyone's father, on our block...probably, in the entire project, located between Bird Road & Miller Drive...were all veterans of WWII. My father was the only "Coastie," on the block, as well as the only owner of an Oldsmobile. I wish that the kids of today...& even our own kids...could have had the priviledge to live in such a neighborhood, where we never locked our doors, during the daytime, & played in the streets, or on the side of the road, on a daily basis. We knew all of our neighbors, across the street, on either side of us, & behind us, & knew where a good number of our classmates lived, too, & our teachers, as well. Life wasn't always Disneyland, of course, nor is it for any child, & no one's childhood is perfect. But, for the most part, the memories that I hold dear-to-my-heart, are the good ones, & at the center of all those memories, is our family's wonderful 3 BR, 1 bath "cookie cutter" Mackle Projects house...which was our comfortable home. Roberta, former contented resident, of one of the many Mackle Projects houses, located in S.W. Miami, & remembering it fondly, while blogging on the OMM website, in the Peach State.

Leighton		04-Aug-2009 18:25
The Barbara Jane Mackle event terrified me as a child, as it received big coverage in the news. I remember seeing photos of the "box" in a magazine, and also seeing the original ABC TV movie, "The Longest Night" (shown only once due to copyright issues). I missed the 90 "authorized" TV remake, "83 minutes 'til Dawn" (the actual title of Mackle's own book). Charles, I won't tell my Nixon story again, about him visiting our church on 8th St, but I do have some old campaign buttons, and his signature/greetings to my parents, on a presidential seal in a hymnbook. By the time he resigned, we were in West TN, and I remember, quite vividly, watching it on TV. Anyway, I was in the woods in NC last week, so I can relate to the cricket noise at night...

Charles Knight		04-Aug-2009 15:47
Leighton, went to a yard sale a couple of weeks back and bought two unused "NIXON" for president bumper stickers for a buck each! I'm not sure why I bought them...I do remember watching him resign on TV back in the day, sitting in my little room above the bar in the Glades, I only got channel four out there so CBS it was ha ha! The night sounds in the Everglades could get so loud (Crickets, Frogs, etc.) that I would have to turn the TV up pretty loud in order to actually understand what was being said. Most folks will never know how loud a swamp can be at night!

Charles Knight		04-Aug-2009 15:35
Ray, the kidnappers buried her alive (Barbera Mackle?) . There was a "made for TV movie" about it later, the Mackles also started GDC or General Development Corporation, Port St. Lucie, Port St. John, Port Charlott, and Port Malabar were but a few of the developments built by them. At the time they were considered the "homes of the future". My stepmother was an executive secretary for one of the top brass so most summers we got to go on the Corp. retreat, I admit it...They were a blast, boating swimming, picnics, etc. And we always stayed in a home of the future. I now live south of Port St. John and north of Port Malabar...The homes of the future are small box like cookie cutter areas with bad drainage and zero lot lines! Eventually GDC went down on various charges of graft and corruption which was and still is the "norm" in Florida real estate development. I'm fortunate enough to say that I don't live in a Mackle home but on the Beach where most of the houses are unique even though we don't have much yard!

Ray		04-Aug-2009 01:26
I was over in Ft. Myers this weekend. Spent a few hours watching their educational channels. Great programs about Tamiami Trail and it's history. Another one about Marco Island being developed by the Deltona Corporation owned by the Mackles. One of which, if I remember correctly, was a neighbor of mine as a kid. They had a huge house on San Amaro Drive in Coral Gables on the Rivera Golf Course. Anyone remember that? Their daughter had been kidnapped but recovered. More history about that here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbara_Jane_Mackle If you ever have time to kill in another city, go to their school or local government channels on cable. Some of the programming includes great local history lessons. Another thing I was thinking about... do our local historians, e.g. Paul George, know about this site and the history it is collecting? It's already quite a resource and growing daily. Ray

Arizona Al		03-Aug-2009 11:48
Charles Knight: I stand corrected. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well at 63 years young in Phoenix, Arizona

Charles Knight		03-Aug-2009 04:40
Capone also had a place on the Loop Road about 60 miles west of Miami on 41 (Tamiami Trail). Go to my Myspace site for a picture of it's ruins, as kids we didn't recognize it's significance WWW.Myspace.com/Gator Hook Lodge Oh and Roberta...Please darlin' the 36D story...You're killing us red blooded American boys!

Charles Knight		03-Aug-2009 04:27
Dr. Ogus...That would be 63 years young!

Charles Knight		03-Aug-2009 04:25
Jo Anne K, I got to meet Mr Lansky in the late seventies, atthe time he was involved with what is known as "Simon" mall, I.E. Dadeland and many more.

Leighton		03-Aug-2009 04:05
Capone managed to find his way to East TN, as well - likely had a place here in Johnson City - great spot to run liquor back then. However, being the "young" whippersnapper that I am, my exotic Miami memories are pretty much more Skipper Chuck, Bozo or Jackie Gleason....um,, and Nixon.

Laura Trussell		02-Aug-2009 18:30
My great grandfather Herbert Lincoln Beach "coined" the phrase HOLSUM, which is now HOLSUM BREAD. He sold the rights to it many years ago, and lost all his money in the depression. My mother said he lived in Miami, as well as Pennsylvania, and Baltimore for a time. He had my Grandmother Beverly Beach Mac Minn in 1917, whom in turn had my mother, Heather Mac Minn Trussell who was an only child in 1947, and the story goes...

Arizona AL		02-Aug-2009 15:00
To the Usual Suspects: Great to see the renewed infield chatter amongst the regulars. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Fran		02-Aug-2009 00:16
Roberta, You are a true treat to read. I love reading your posts, filled with true delight. The bra story was a hoot. I remember when. Only I never made a 36D, just a 34B. Good thing too having big boobs only made the guys hang around looking. Precious, thanks again.

TImothy of Cutler "Bay"		01-Aug-2009 20:35
Haven't been on Don Boyd's wonderful site in a while, excited about our moving on Tues. 8/4 back to Miami (from Orlando "Babylon South") wife Robin Whitney and I are very much looking forward to it!!! Nice place you got here Don! Ciao

Jackie		01-Aug-2009 19:23
Roberta, I hear you, girl! I went all the way through school in Miami, and never experienced most of the things that have been discussed recently. The biggest escapade among my group was to soap the fountains in the Gables. But, I do know that there were unsavory characters lurking occasionally at Venetian pool and the movie theaters. I have a vague recollection that some of the notorious gangsters had homes in our town, but I don't remember any stories about them. When I was in jr. high, the KKK bombed Carver Village Housing Project, a Jewish Center (in Coral Gables, I think), and several Catholic churches in Dade County. I don't remember hearing of them at the time, but it came up in a lecture I attended a few years ago, and I was truly embarrassed that I didn't remember those horrific events. As a youngster not affected by the happenings, I guess that it didn't make much of an impression. Like Roberta, I probably had other, more important personal issues to deal with. So keep the stories coming. Even those of us who grew up there may have lots to learn about our home town.

whitebelt		01-Aug-2009 15:29
My dad used to deliver flowers to Al Capone. He said Capone was a nice guy, but Frank Nitty was scary. Miami has always been a very seamy place. When I was 18 and first moved out of the house I lived in a house around NW 79th street and 14th ave. I lived in the efficiency attached to it. During the day the house was a brothel. Very busy and profitable place. I was security at night. I moved out before the madam got busted again. Lots and lots of stuff went on in Miami. Many an innocent girl became not so innocent. Guys, too. :-)

Roberta Perry Hughes		01-Aug-2009 09:57
Golly, Molly...!! To quote Caroline Bingley, in A&E's 1995 TV miniseries, of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice"..... ...."I am all astonishment....!" I grew up, hearing the hushed tones of adults, who would zip-the-lip, when kids were around, & sneaking peeks at those tabloid newspapers, when I got a chance, but...like I said, when the papers were not allowed in our home, I soon forgot all about that sort of talk. I was only 4 years old, in 1951, when my family moved to Miami, & I was only 14 when we moved away, so my time, in Our Town, was spent with the blinders of childhood in place, & my memories are (probably) a bit laughable, as compared to the memories of those who fully grew to adulthood, in Miami. I never experienced high school, so, the Tropicaire Drive-In's memories, for me, are going there in my pajamas, because I usually fell asleep, during the second feature. Never got to "steam up the windows," with a beau, at the Drive-In, nor attend a beach party at night, nor watch a drag race, nor any of the stuff that "mature" teens got to do. And I had never heard of Al Capone. I DO remember my first bra, though...! It was all-cotton, size 32A, by Exquisite Form. I was a 6th grader, then, around 11 years old. Must have been fertilizer in my food, because by the time I was entering the 7th grade, I was bursting-at-the-seams, in a 36D...! Hormone explosion...! Made me look older than I was, when I was just 13...! I was not a happy camper about it, either. I felt so freakish. I know! I know! T.M.I., right...? Well...I only related that incident to further define my personal affect, at the time. Yes, I guess I was a bit on the "innocent" side. But really, it was more of a naivete, than innocence. (sigh) So, all of y'all out there...! Relate to me some more of your memories, please! The stuff I missed out on; the facts-of-life, regarding: the Mob; the Missiles: the Space Program, as it developed after 1961; life in the juke joints, 'way back in the 'Glades, etc. I want to read about ALL of it...! Thank you, in advance. I eagerly await more stories, & more history, from our dear Jeff Levine, & others. (Thanks, Jeff!) Michael Tripp...I will call you, sometime today, or tomorrow. Got to go visit our former neighbor, who has recently been diagnosed with inoperable cancer. Seems like I learn about yet another person, every month or so, who has been struck by this terrible disease. I am a 9-year survivor, come September, so I can relate to those who are newly diagnosed. If you know someone who has been declared terminally ill, go & visit them; do not avoid them. That seems to be a phenomenon, whenever someone becomes gravely ill. People shun them, & it gets mighty lonely, when your friends no longer come around. It can be very hurtful. It would be a good idea to call ahead, to find out if they are up to seeing a visitor. Take them a nice throw, or an afghan, or a fruit basket. Find out if their appetite is unaffected, by treatments, & bring them a tasty goodie to eat. Talk to them about the local news, or whatever, or just simply be a listener, should they want to open up to you. Be there for them, but do not overstay your welcome. I would say, about an hour, maybe even less, depending on how they are feeling. There are good days, and bad days. But, do visit. Should you want to send a card, be sure it is one of the "Thinking of You" type cards, or blank inside, to pen a personal note to them, to let them know that they are not forgotten. Friendship, comraderie, is the best medicine they can get. Roberta, getting a dose of eye-opening truths, about her former home, Miami, courtesy of the best dang website out there...! Greetings to you, from the Peach State. Hugs to y'all...Take care of your precious selves.

Jeff		01-Aug-2009 01:52
Roberta, the newspaper you're probably referring to was the tabloid "Miami Life", run by an eccentric whom [if my recall of a later article about him is correct] was shot in retailiation for one of his articles. He survived, and was always a thorn in the side of many people. There was another paper published on Miami Beach (the name escapes me - I think it was the Miami Beach Star) that was also a tabloid and sensationalistic. Their offices were above Wolfie's in the One Lincoln Road building (second floor) - the paper lasted until the 1970's. Sonny Capone opened up Sonny's Italian Restaurant on 23rd Street in Miami Beach -right across the street from the Trocadero Restaurant on 23rd Street and Liberty Avenue; shown in one of Don's galleries. It was infamous for being a favorite mob hangout. Prior to 1951, the mob had "quiet control" of the wide-open gambling until the Kefauver Commission went to town on them. The S&G (Stop and Go) Syndicate was the big one on the Beach. They had bookmaking offices above the Five O'Clock Club on 20th and Collins... In North Miami, the Rancher Motel was the meeting spot for "the boys"... Back in the 1930's, the Westview Country Club was a gambling casino. Yep... it was all over town. At least back then, you KNEW who was corrupt and who wasn't... now, you need to have a scorecard to keep track of the businessmen, police, politicians, doctors, lawyers and who-knows-who that are less-than-upstanding citizens. Let's also not forget the "back-room delas" in Henry Milander's butcher shop, or Sheriff Jimmy Sullivan -"the best cop money could buy"... I've heard MANY stores about these characters...

Miami River Rat		01-Aug-2009 00:57
Al Capone had a house on Star Island. My mom claimed to have dated his son, Sonny Capone, when both were teenagers. Grandma confirmed this with the caveat: "Sonny was a nice boy, very clean and respectful. Sonny had nothing to do with his father's business." Whatevah, Grandma. Miami in the '30's and '40's was a popular spot for mobsters. Word was that Miami was treated as everybody's vacation spot and there was an agreement to keep the gang wars and hits elsewhere. Miami was for fun only, a place where they all could relax.

Jo-Anne K		31-Jul-2009 21:31
Charles...........Meyer Lansky spent quite a bit of time in So. FL starting in the late 30's (and dying in Miami Beach in the early 80's). There was a time when gambling was legal here and how do you think the dog and horse tracks came about. My Mom was his manicurist though this was before I was born and my Dad worked the tracks as an accountant from Connecticut to Florida before he passed in '55. My Mom always said Lansky was the financial wizard for the "mob" and believe me she can name names of the "boys" that lived in and around Miami in the 40's & 50's. And yes Roberta.......there was most definately "mob" activity in So. FL Hi everyone............Hi Don..........I've been reading the posts but haven't had much to say. Still working 10 hours a day on this nightmare project in Colorado.........it is jinxed, of that I'm certain.

Charles Knight		31-Jul-2009 19:59
Ha Ha...The "Mob" in Miami ! Baldardash! No such thing (was that sarcastic enough?) Capone, Lanskey, Siegal, these were frequent visitors to our fair town along with dozens if not hundreds more. Dear sweet innocent Roberta, these types were evil all day, every day.

Michael Tripp		31-Jul-2009 17:40
Roberta - Please give me a call - 706.547.3048

Michael Tripp		31-Jul-2009 15:23
I remember the missile crisis quite well. I was working for an engineer in the Gables at that time and the nondescript two story building across the street had all kinds of antennas appear on it's roof overnight. Another engineering firm that I worked for a coupla weeks later designed some of the missile silos and launch ramps that were employed.

Arizona Al		31-Jul-2009 15:09
Charles Knight: Present and accounted for. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well at 63 years old and counting in Phoenix, Arizona

Roberta Perry Hughes		31-Jul-2009 09:20
Charles Knight...Even if I do not post a comment, I am skulking about, reading the threads of others, & enjoying the information, memories, & stories, about Our Town, & the surrounding areas, as contributed by some recent newbies, as well as by the regulars on here. Great stuff, all of it...!! I was totally clueless, about a good bit of all of this, that has been posted on here recently, for many decades, & it is just mind-boggling, to learn about all of these things, all these years later...! Wow. I am impressed by all of it. More, please...! A dim memory stirs, & I DO recall a sort of "underground newspaper," that my uncle would get, that had some very disturbing articles & photos in it, that smacked of Mob activity: a weighted-down body, discovered in the Miami River, with money in the pockets of the clothing, & the presence of jewelry, indicating that robbery was NOT the motive; images of a dead person, gunned down in a parking lot, in broad daylight; & more than one instance, of such evidence of criminal activity, would surface, now & then. There were stories of the numbers racket, & money laundering, as well as rigged gaming, & the consequences of not paying a gambling debt to a bookie; stories of scams, & the underbidding on a construction work contract, or for the disposal of waste materials. All of it was chilling, & the adults would talk about it in hushed tones...all of which would perk up our ears, to learn more about it. My mother tried to shield me from seeing those "newspapers," but childhood curiosity would make me seek them out, like a moth to a flame. My child's logic & reasoning could not equate what I saw & read, as having occurred in Miami, somewhere. It seemed to me to have happened in some other city & state, like NYC, or Chicago. But, not in MY town...! Oh, never, in my town...! Was it just my imagination, & my memory is playing tricks on me, in a sort of "senior moment...?" Or, did these events actually occur, from time-to-time...? Was there Mob activity going on, in broad daylight, in the 1950's...? Does anyone else remember those "underground newspapers," sold from a news stand, or kiosk, or by a newsboy, on a street corner...? (At least, that's where I figure they must have been sold, anyway). When my mother insisted those papers were not to be brought into our house, I soon forgot all about the "news" that they carried. But, as you grow older, somehow, you can remember things from years ago, that you only thought you had forgotten. Somebody, please enlighten me, here, & tell me if what I am remembering was real. Jeepers. This is not the most pleasant of Miami memories, but...an integral part of them. Roberta, waxing a la Elliot Ness, long past the witching hour, in the Peach State...

Charles Knight		31-Jul-2009 04:42
OK, I guess that at fifty two I'm considered one of the youngsters on this site and by default I should ask if there's anyone out there at times like this...So here it is "is there anyone out there?" Let's have a show of hands (or something) to let the rest of us know that we're still above the soil!

Don Boyd		27-Jul-2009 18:56
Mike, welcome and thank you for posting your memories. Since you mentioned the old Bell Haven Trailer Park, you should check out Robbin's comments gallery in the old Hialeah section of this site because there's a few other guys who lived there back in the day. The link to it is: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_hialeah_robbin_current Don

mike cox		25-Jul-2009 19:33
Reading about the missle silos,etc, has sure been interesting. I left Miami just a couple of years before the missle crisis happened,had no idea that the area became so well fortified..who'd a thunk. Bio; born in key west,at Navy hospital,1945.Dad was Shore Patrol there. Moved to nw 33rd st/12th ave a few years later,moved many times after that,Dad was a 'mover'' for some reason. Last lived at the old Bell Haven trailer court.,The news archives of it's becoming a vermin infested slum sure made me sad.I spend literally hundreds of hours in the pool. Attended Madison jr High I b elieve it was called while living in Bh park. Dad moved us to the pacific nothwest after Mom passed away at an early age,and the greenery and seemingly total lack of humidity was really nice,so stayed for about 50 years,still here in Wa state. Sister and Brother live in Daytona,which is ok until the Harley's hit town. lol Brother was a captain for Metro/Dade fire dept. >>> Don Boyd,he started his career at MIA,about 1963 ? Dennnis Cox. I have pics of him on the MIA fire trucks,btw. great site,let's keep it active,ok ?

Arizona Al		25-Jul-2009 14:32
Mike Cox rew up in South Miami. LIved in Homestead 1945-1955 and Cutler Ridge (now Cutler Bay) 1955-1964. Went to Redlands Elementary, Cutler Ridge Elementary, Palmetto Jr. High, Miami Military Academy and Palmetto High. After discharge from Army (1964-1967) attended Miami Dade Jr. College and lived in N.W. Miami until I left the State of Florida in 1969. I am certain we share many common memories:). Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Robert Wyman		24-Jul-2009 22:19
I concur regarding the Everglades as a whole. The Aerojet site, however, is south of the main park road and arguably outside the pristine water sheet-flow area that used to run unimpeded from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay and the SE Florida Atlantic coast. Existing developments will continue to impede the historic flow in many areas, and the Aerojet parcel may be no better off as a "reclaimed" section than it is now. With the roads having been there for 40 years, I don't see why a visitors center can't be built at the silo with guided tours down into the pit. Sounds like a perfect NPS ownership operation with a contractor/concessionaire management operation. Will a silo museum with associated electrical and plumbing utilities really affect the overall Everglades water management issue? I'm open to the argument, but I think the park road and existing adjacent development make this area a very limited candidate for serious flow and wildlife changes if the place is just flattened through reclaimation. Just my opinion. Otherwise, I support most of the Everglades plan. Robert Wyman

Charles Knight		24-Jul-2009 19:44
Great stuff about Aerojet but the Everglades is the only habitat of it's type in the world (and universe for that matter). To halt or even divert restoration is unthinkable. You may say "it's just a little land" but that's what has been going here for more than a hundred years...Remember, a little here and a little there adds up to a lot. To Mr. Boyd, I've seen photos of Hialeah, O.L; and most of the greater Miami/Dade Co. where it was all a pristine swamp, I'm not saying that we should destroy all of our history and landmarks, just that sometimes we have to look at the bigger picture. By all means let's preserve all that is good and of historic value by ending the systemic destruction in order to make way for "progress" , but PLEASE...The Everglades folks, we can never build a new one. This may not increase my popularity among you but I had to get it off my chest.

mike cox		24-Jul-2009 15:53
Don Boyd What a fantastic site ! Thank you for this trip back to my childhood ! I just discovered it last night,and finally had to be 'drug off to bed' because I could not tear myself away from the picture galleries. ! Talk about DeJavu all over again.! Mike cox,waaaaaaaaaaay up in washingotn state now.

mike cox		24-Jul-2009 15:11
Don Boyd What a fantastic site ! Thank you for this trip back to my childhood ! I just discovered it last night,and finally had to be 'drug off to bed' because I could not tear myself away from the picture galleries. ! Talk about DeJavu all over again.! Mike cox,waaaaaaaaaaay up in washingotn state now.

mike cox		24-Jul-2009 15:01
Arizona Al,that is wild ! YOu and I are the same age,probably share a lot of the same good memories of 'yesteryear'. If I remember correctly,it was at Shadow Lawn school in Miami that we went to school together. Did you ever live down in the Miami area ?

Arizona Al		24-Jul-2009 13:53
Mike Cox: When I was 12/13 years old in 1957 I attended YMCA Camp somewhere in Central Florida. Two of my fellow campers were Bubba Tongay and Tommy Coward who were both to eventually become champion swimmers. The world is truly flat. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona Al		24-Jul-2009 13:53
Mike Cox: When I was 12/13 years old in 1957 I attended YMCA Camp somewhere in Central Florida. Two of my fellow campers were Bubba Tongay and Tommy Coward who were both to eventually become champion swimmers. The world is truly flat. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

mike cox		24-Jul-2009 07:19
Did somebody mention Bell Haven? WOW HELLO all,I"m way up in Wa state now,but was born in key west and lived in Miami until I was 15...1959. I lived in BH park from about 1956 to 1959,or thereabouts.Anybody remember Larry Swain,the bullwhip and rope showman? He lived very close to us. Mrs Troy was the lifeguard,and taught me how to swim.I spent HOURS and HOURS in that pool! On of my very early school class mates was Bubba Tongay,the champion swimmer,and later a Beach cop,just like my Dad was. Looking at the old pics was GREAT tonight,I wlll be back,and this site ROCKS !!

Roberta Perry Hughes		24-Jul-2009 06:23
Hey, Rocket Man...er, Men......!! Though it's all Greek to me, I still enjoy reading the historical aspect of it, & am amazed at the many things that most of us were totally unaware of, in or around Our Town. Awesome...!! However...! What I REALLY came on here to say, is... ...I sure am glad to learn that the 'Vette opened up a can of whoop-ass, on that T-Bird, in the anecdote Miami River Rat related about the drag race of yore...!! LOL

Robert Wyman		24-Jul-2009 05:56
Not to be argumentative, but the records clearly show that Aerojet was proposing SRB designs for Apollo and for a "Saturn V" follow-on that would have been even larger. Think: those old Soviet boosters that were so huge at the base they looked more like a science fiction interplanetary rocket than a moonlanding system. The anecdotal portion of the records indicate that Von Braun was adament about s liquid fueled system and basically ignored all SRB research, but NASA pressed forward with the research and contracts. The Apollo-era work at Aerojet-Dade (the facility name... Aerojet-Dade Division)... Ceased after a nozzel blew off the rocket and landed (an unpublished distance away) in the Everglades. The facility stood down and everything was abandoned-in-place. Aerojet did try and push for their SRB design as the Shuttle came online, but (again) anecdotal research suggests that competitor Thiokol was awarded the contract as a political favor to Utah's politicians for votes they had "garnered" on previous matters. True or not, the plot thickens: the segmented design of Thiokol's, including the o-rings, had a lower max. temp. range than the Aerojet design, and the research also suggests there was an issue with the use of asbestos in the o-rings or sealant design that was ultimately changed when the EPA banned asbestos. Hmmmm... I'm sure you see where this is leading... and we know what occurred in 1986. Aerojet was apparently livid over the entire episode, and they once again made their SRB pitch for both the design and the Dade plant during the 1987 Challenger Hearings. Once again, they were rejected, and soon after started sales procedures which led to court battles, lawsuits, and land-swap deals with Florida and the Feds before the property was finally acquired by the State. Interestingly, it is still listed as a future EPA contamination cleanup site, and thus may be why it has remained unoccupied (except for a very brief use by Florida Dept. Of Corrections.) The most pressing issue today is that the Everglades Restoration plan calls for the complete leveling of Aerojet-Dade and "restoration" of the land and canals after 40+ years of existence. I understand environmentalism, but I also respect common sense and realism. I have to wonder if the Plan's proponents have ANY CLUE as to the (1) the significance of the facility, (2) that the largest SRB ever made was tested there and (3) the remnants of that test article still exist on the property, sealed from view for 40 years! I bet they never did an extensive enough search to "uncover" the silo. That will be a BIG surprise to the demolition contractor! Future radio traffic: "Demo Crew Chief to Supervisor" Supervisor: "Go ahead Chief" "Yes sir, we demo'd the shed last night and pulled the steel plates this morning" Supervisor: "10-4, anything else? "Sir, I've halted all work. You better get down here ASAP. There's a giant hole with.. ummm... a UFO inside... ummm... And it says 'NASA' on it. You gotta call in the brass on this.... I don'g know what to do" Supervisor: "Don't joke with me like that, son. I don't have the time. Get a front loader and fill the hole. Then move in to scraping up that asphalt" "Sir... Really... You don't understand. The hole is too big to fill... And the... UFO is too big to lift out... I'm gonna order a baseball field tarp and barricade this until you can see it" Supervisor: "10-4. UFO? Right!" Robert Wyman www.forensicphoto.com sorry for any typos... I did this post on an iPhone! oreman,

Parks		24-Jul-2009 05:03
Hi Ray, Thanks for the links. I've ordered the movie. That NASA paper is fascinating. Aerojet was building really BIG motors! 1.6 million pounds of propellant in one motor. That must have been really something to see. Did you catch that they used a 30" diameter rocket motor just to light the big one! I still don't see the link to Apollo as the Saturn V was a liquid fueled rocket. I think the shuttle was the first man carrying rocket to use solid boosters. Mercury and Gemini did use small solid fuel retro rockets to bring them down. Thanks for the trivia question and answer. I think it solved another mystery for me. Several years ago I went to the Planetarium to hear Buzz Aldrin speak. Jack Horkheimer introduced him as an old friend. I wondered at the time how they had met. You may have just explained it. If you get a group together for a trip out to the Aerojet site, count me in. Don can tell you how to contact me directly.

whitebelt		24-Jul-2009 01:32
That projector at the Planetarium could also give you the sensation of spinning and yawing in space. I went to a presentation one time when they did that. VERY disorienting. You are focused on the lights on the ceiling in a dark room. Would be great experience for those going into space.

Ray		24-Jul-2009 00:08
Parks, I beg to differ about Aerojet and Apollo. I remember my dad going to a ground breaking out there in the 1960s. He still has the tie clip they gave out. I think the fact that they didn't get the shuttle contract, even after the disaster, is what finally killed the place. But it was around during the Apollo era. There's even a movie:http://www.wklginc.com/aerojet.htm Robert Wyman has done a lot of research and posted it in message 24612 in thehttp://soflahams.com/ mailing list. This 1966 document he found goes into great detail:http://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/19700078318_1970078318.pdf Aerojet is a very interesting part of Miami history that I don't think most people knew about. Except maybe for the noise it made sometimes. I still have trouble believing that they dug a 150' deep silo in the Everglades and to this day it's not full of water. Even more amazing is that there's still an engine in it! We might be getting a group together for a legit exploration of sorts. Ray

Ray		23-Jul-2009 23:38
Now for the answer to my NASA trivia question. There was another link between the Apollo missions and Miami. Hint: They needed something for training but the only one was in Miami. And no, it wasn't at the airport. Any guesses? There's a real good chance you have used the same thing they used. Here's the answer from Robert who works there: "I will add a cool piece of trivia, the Apollo astronauts trained at the Miami Planetarium. We were the first facility to get a 3 axis Spitz star projector installed and the astronauts needed to learn the sky so they came to the museum."

Jeff		23-Jul-2009 03:33
That should have been "nearby" spots... On the Miami side of the Causeway was the Kelly's/Billy's/Sip 'n' Sup Drive-In and a Burger King.. for a brief time there was a Broadway Joe's (Namath) restaurant just before Biscayne Blvd. on the South side of 79th Street and a Jackie Gleason Restaurant was at 79th and Biscayne (across from Junior's - formerly Arthur Maisel's)... Heading toward Miami Beach, there was [in Normandy Isle] Nathan's (who were sued by the original Nathan's and re-named Nay-Ton's Chinese Take-Out), Mama Vi-Vi's and Eberhardt's House of Steaks... The Pampered Pup was on the North side of 71st Street just before Collins Avenue and the Chinese restaurant that just closed after decade (Fu Manchu?)... By 71st and Collins was Texasburger... and up the road near 73rd Street were Patti and Sandy's, Parham's and Curry's - along with a Royal Castle (the former site of a diner).

Jeff		23-Jul-2009 03:24
Jilly was a pal of Frank Sinatra - yet was found dead in his car in the Nevada desert - a victim of a gangland hit. Jilly's was located on the South side of the North Bay/79th Street/Kennedy Causeway next to another small bar and Causeway Bait and Tackle. The Barn was the former Peppermint Lounge - built on the site of Colonel Jim's Bar-B-Q in the early 1960's. It was later known as the Mix II and by other names. It was located just West of Fun Fair on the North side of the street - and was famous (as The Barn) as the home of Wayne Cochran and the C.C. Riders. Other nearly spots of the 50's-60's on the Causeway were the Dean Martin Restaurant (later Club Top Draw), House of Prime Ribs (later Tony's Fish Market), Syd Mass' The Luau, 'Radio' Weiner's The Bonfire, Beach Bowl, Nick and Arthur's and Hy Uchitel's The Place for Steak (by Larry Paskow's Harbor Island Spa)...

Guest		22-Jul-2009 20:59
Jilly's and The Barn in the 1960's

Bill		22-Jul-2009 00:16
I worked at Kemron Office Supply in the mid 70's. I think it was at 8383 Bird Rd. but not positive. If I can find any pics I'll try to get them to you.

Guest		21-Jul-2009 06:52
"lives"

Guest		21-Jul-2009 06:52
I think Collins like in Marco Island

Parks		21-Jul-2009 05:16
Hi Guys, I just got back from DC where I heard, John Glenn, Chris Kraft, Buzz Aldrin, Michael Collins and Neal Armstrong speak about the Apollo program and where we should go from here. Mars. It was wonderful!! Aldrin is a pitchman in the mold of Billy Mays and Armstrong is like a professor whose lecture you would never want to miss. Collins mentioned that he lives in South Florida. Does anyone know where? Ray, the Aerojet site had no connection to the Apollo program. Apollo didn't use solid rocket boosters. It was for the shuttle program. If my memory serves, Aerojet was in competition with Thiokol to build the Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB) for the Space Shuttle. Aerojet was going to build them in one piece and carry them to the Cape on barges, hence the canal. Thiokol proposed to build them in sections, truck them to the Cape and assemble them there. Thiokol got the contract. The SRB's got O-Rings and the Challenger exploded. If Aerojet had built the SRBs there would have been no o-rings and no explosion. No guess on the other link to the space program. What is it?

Miami River Rat		21-Jul-2009 04:16
Ray, thanks for the link! I'm still amazed that I saw the moon landing right there on my TV. For the curious, the 'Vette won that drag race, but it was just by a whisker. Both cars were very fast. Circa '57, 58 & 59 the midnight drags were out on Milam Dairy Road. We'd hang out at Bar-B-Que Haven, on the SW corner of The Trail and Ludlum before and after the races to cuss and discuss the night's events. I guess in the early 60's they migrated to Krome, which would certainly have been another good spot. Miami Girl, I agree that you couldn't have taken that bridge by Deering's at 70 mph. Any car would have been trashed! Hey Whitebelt; I had forgotten that bridge on NW 7th street. Hitting it fast enough to impress your girl and still stopping before running into 7th ave was a challenge to be sure! I had my first ever car wreck there. Not due to topping the bridge too fast: A non-english speaker without a driver's liscense or insurance ran the light at the bottom of the bridge. GRRRRR!

Jackie		21-Jul-2009 03:29
40 years ago tonight, I was home with my oldest son who was 10 months old, waiting for Dad to get home from work. When the time came, I woke him up and he watched the first steps with me. He doesn't remember it, of course, but he knows that his Mom wanted him to have that moment. And, yes, I am responsible for his addiction to TV!

Ray		20-Jul-2009 23:44
So where were you 40 years ago this very night? I'll bet you (or your parents) were glued to a TV. My house was listening to Walter Cronkite. Anyone find it interesting that he passed away exactly 40 years after they were en-route to the moon? Want to relive the event? I'm listening in to a realtime, live (-40 years) transmission of all the mission audio. It should make interesting listening tonight: http://www.nasa.gov/externalflash/apollo11_radio/ or http://anon.nasa-global.edgesuite.net/anon.nasa-global/Apollo-Mission-Audio-Stream.asx Keep in mind that there may be long periods of silence. This is as-it-happened. But it will get very busy before 10PM tonight. Neil Armstrong steps down on lunar surface: Sunday, July 20, 1969, 9:56:15 p.m. EST Now for the Miami history tie in. Dade County had some links to the mission. I think we have discussed the AeroJet facility in deep south and west Dade. This is where the solid rocket boosters were made and tested. They were then floated out a 40' deep canal to Cape Kennedy. More info here: http://sffma.net/sdtour_aerojet.htm But today I heard that there was another link between the Apollo missions and Miami. Hint: They needed something for training but the only one was in Miami. And no, it wasn't at the airport. Any guesses? There's a real good chance you have used the same thing they used. I'll post the answer in a while. Does anyone know other links the Apollo program had to Miami? How about some of your Miami Memories of this date in history? Ray

Miami Girl		20-Jul-2009 20:59
Opps, that last comment was from Miami Girl, sorry

Guest		20-Jul-2009 20:58
I'm so glad we're all talking again! Rat, I once got a ticket for going 70 mph across that damn bridge. I knew I wasn't going that fast - I never would have made it with the out of wack front end alignment I had, but I didn't know how to assert myself in those days.

Jackie		20-Jul-2009 16:06
Thanks for reminding me about the midnight drag races. I was never there, but I did teach a class of seniors at Miami Central in 64-65 that talked of nothing else one Monday morning. It seems that several of them had been at Krome Ave. that weekend when the police came and broke up the party. From what my husband told me, (he was FHP trooper at the time) many kids made a hasty exit leaving their cars behind. I later met a gal in West Palm who had been there. She had been scared to death that her dad, a police chief in on of the many towns in Dade County, would find out she had been there.

whitebelt		20-Jul-2009 15:27
I remember a bridge, I think at NW 7th ave and 7th street, that could give you a thrill hitting it at 40 and above. Was peaked, and when going east 7th ave was right there. You hit the brakes immediately after hitting the top. Would definitely stretch your suspension system at the top. Was crossing Rickenbacker one night when raining and thought I would punch it down while going over the steel grating at a good speed. Missed going over the edge by a couple of inches before regaining control. Didn't do that anymore after that.

Arizona Al		20-Jul-2009 14:05
Miami River Rat: I recall the roads and associated adventures you describe quite well. I also have fond memories of the "Midnight Drags" on Krome Avenue circa 1962-1964. I would have put my money on the Vette. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and wekk in 115 degree (dry heat or not it is still hot) Phoenix, Arizona

Roberta Perry Hughes		20-Jul-2009 06:36
Miami River Rat...Who won that drag race...??? The T-Bird...? Or, the 'Vette...???

Miami River Rat		20-Jul-2009 03:44
Well, does anybody remember that little bridge in front of the Deering estate, on the road east of Old Cutler and just north of Snowden's? Man if you hit that thing about 50 mph your car would LAUNCH! Do that at night and you could see sparks fly out from underneath when the frame slammed down on the road. Then there were the Little Woods Roads in The Grove. Always good for one run-through on a given night. Do it twice and the cops would be there. "Thrill Hill" was near there, just a street that went up that silver bluff in The Grove, but if you hit it fast enough things would get, um, interesting. Then there were the midnight drag races out Milam Dairy Road. One night I was standing on the roadside when a '56 T-Bird and a '57 'Vette squared off. Talk about your basic AWESOME! If I close my eyes real tight I can still smell the burning rubber from the tires and hear those engines roar.... Ok, y'all wanted comments, you got 'em. Nobody said the comments had to be classy or anything. :) See ya'

Jackie		19-Jul-2009 21:10
I agree, Miami Girl. What's going on here? All of a sudden no one has anything to say? Seems unlikely!

Miami Girl		19-Jul-2009 14:48
I don't see any new posts here since 10 July which in my world that was 9 days ago. Have all the "old Miamians" been abducted by space aliens? Where is everybody?? Or, maybe I'm in some kind of future time warp and it's still the 10th. I'm worried that for some reason the whole site updates after I add this comment and everyone will think I'm ready for a padded cell. H.E.L.P!!!!

Don Boyd		10-Jul-2009 05:41
Ellie Brecher posted this under one of the Miami Military Academy photos and I am reposting it here to hit a larger audience. Don ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Guest 09-Jul-2009 22:52 Does anyone remember Bambilyn Courson? She just died at age 50 and I'm writing her obituary for The Miami Herald. She was petite, with very long brown hair. Please call 305-376-3631 or email ebrecher@miamiHerald.com. Thanks. Ellie Brecher.

Arizona Al		09-Jul-2009 03:59
Guest: Please provide more information regarding the Hansen family. First names, neighborhood, time frame etc. Thank You Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in 110 degree Phoenix, Arizona

Guest		09-Jul-2009 00:51
Does anyone have any memories about the Hansen family?

Don Boyd		07-Jul-2009 22:43
Jacob Eben posted this under a photo of the Miami Military Academy and I am reposting it here so it hits a wider audience and possibly someone who can help out: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I am working on a documentary film for ESPN about the life and career of fallen NASCAR driver Tim Richmond who was a graduate of Miami Military Academy in 1973 and died (as some of you may know) due to complications from AIDS. Over the course of my research so far, I have spoken with a few MMA Alumni, and I also believe I e-mailed briefly with the administrator of this site, but I have not yet been able to touch base as of yet with anyone who actually graduated with Richmond or was a particularly close friend of his. If there is anyone out there who thinks they can aid us in our research, whether it be that you just know someone who knew him or you knew Richmond personally, I would appreciate a chance to speak with you. I can be reached at 212.257.6208. We are looking for photos and memorable stories, specifically. If you played with Tim Richmond on the football team, we really are interested in finding game film, if it exists. Again, if you are able to assist me in any way, please call 212.257.6208 between the hours of 10am & 7pm, any day of the week, even on weekends. I can be reached via e-mail at jeben@redlinefilms.net Thanks so much. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Don Boyd		07-Jul-2009 17:17
Leighton, continued best wishes for your job search in the mountains there. Don

Leighton		07-Jul-2009 02:59
"Hello" from East TN/Western NC, these days. Have never heard of Alabama Jack's, but it's on my list when I DO finally make it back.

Miami Girl		06-Jul-2009 20:48
Roberta, LOL (ha - ha) to think of ever referring to my husband as "the little man"!!! It would go over like the proverbial lead brick!!! But to be honest he's never said "the little wife" either although once when introducing me he forgot my name! And you're right, it must be a guy thing. Don, loved the story about Rose, it really is a small world.

Fran		06-Jul-2009 17:35
Roberta, Jersey friend of mine calls her husband, my hubby. I thought at first that it was a little odd but it could be a northern thing. I can almost taste the conch and crab cakes. Yup, an ice cold beer and I don't drink beer. Oh, and a slice of key lime pie. I just heard from an old neighbor from Georgia. His mother made the best pie,it was to die for.

Roberta Perry Hughes		06-Jul-2009 08:45
LOVED all of the stories about Alabama Jack's, bean soup, & the lady named Rosie...! Makes me want to go there...! I could almost taste those fried conchs, too! Golly, but there are some very fine writers on here...! More, please...!! AWESOME coincidences, Don...! I know it just blew you away, to be seated next to Rosie, on that faraway plane...!! So very deja vu...! NOW...and merely out of sheer curiousity, I have a question for the Ladies: Do ANY of you refer to your spouse as, "the husband...?" Have you ever heard any married woman refer to their spouse, by that...other-side-of-the-coin...anonymous...term...?? Or, is that just a "guy thing?" I have long been puzzled by that term, that some men have, in reference to their spouse, within a conversation. I remember, in the '50's, on the TV Variety-type shows, a few male stand-up comics (Rodney Dangerfield, & Jack Carter, come to mind) coined the phrase, "The wife and I," or they referred to their spouse as being, "The little woman." (Any ladies out there refer to your spouse as "The little man...?"). I was just wondering........! The hour is late...up all night, as usual for me...so...! Pay no attention, to my ramblings...!

Don Boyd		06-Jul-2009 04:09
Here's my little anecdote about Alabama Jack's. I've never been there but I've driven by it a few times over the years. Wow, what a story, eh? It gets worse. In the late 70's, 1980 and possibly part of 1981 Alabama Jack's was owned by a very attractive young lady named Rose. The old Miami News did a great article about her and included a photo or two of her in her bikini with her Corvette and Alabama Jack's in the background. I had a buddy named Fernando at work who lives down in the Redland (no 's' at the end of that name) and I gave him the photos and article and suggested that he drop by there for a beer or two on his days off and get a personal live view of the beautiful Rose. A few weeks later he brought in his own photos that he took of Rose at the bar and he said she was very nice about posing for a few shots and he had been going there for beers on his days off. A year or two later, in 1981, I was flying from Auckland, New Zealand to Sydney, Australia in the last center row of a Pan Am B747SP and seated next to an attractive lady and her husband. About half way across the Tasman Sea she asked me some complicated question as to what time it would be in Sydney and we got to talking. We were very surprised to find out that we were both from Miami and she said that she had owned a bar near Key Largo named Alabama Jack's. I said "then you must be Rose!" and it totally surprised her that I knew her name. I told her about the article that I had read about her a year or two before in the Miami News. I then told her that I gave the article to a friend and that she let him take some photos of her and she said "Who, Fernando?" to which I said yes. We couldn't believe the coincidence of being seated next to each other on the other side of the globe and I took a photo of her on the plane to show Fernando when I got back and of course he couldn't believe it. I'll add that photo someday to this site. She had sold Alabama Jack's and her husband sold his charter fishing boats that were docked across the street from the Fontainebleau and they were moving to Perth, Australia to open a bar there. I heard years later that they moved back to the US. It was one of two "it's a small world" incidents on this trip because one night in Rotorua, New Zealand I had a great fish dinner at a seafood restaurant and my lady server and I got to talking and I found out that she had lived in Coral Gables for ten years in the '70's. Don

Parks (the other Rat)		05-Jul-2009 23:39
Thanks Rat! That was a great story and a good reminder that Jack's is still there. Maybe next weekend I'll take the wife there. Better still, if I get the boat ready we could do an overnighter down there. Anchor in card sould for the night and dinghy in for dinner. Maybe that trip should wait for winter. With all the rain we've had, the mosquitos have got to be fierce down there now.

Miami Girl		05-Jul-2009 22:34
Thanks Rat, one of these days I'm gonna get back down there. I just googled it in hopes there would be pictures, ya'll can see it at: www.alabamajacks.com

Jackie		05-Jul-2009 20:46
Rat, it's comforting to know that some things have stayed the same, like the bean soup at Alabama Jacks!

Miami River Rat		05-Jul-2009 16:43
Return to wonderland, part 2: On my recent trip to Miami, I took one day and went down the Card Sound road to Alabama Jacks. My grandpa and I ate lunch there in 1965, just before a big hurricane. (Hurricane Betsy?) Jack told us that he and his wife were going to ride it out. “Everything we’ve got is in this place, if it goes into the ocean, we are going with it”. Grandpa and I went back a couple of weeks later after we had cleaned up our own hurricane damage and Jacks was still standing solid. Three trailer homes that had been set up across the road were twisted and smashed, but the old-timey wood construction of Alabama Jacks hadn’t budged. That was before the Card Sound bridge to Key Largo was built about 50 yards from Alabama Jacks front door.. Me and Grandpa went back once after the bridge was finished, around 1972, just to see the bridge and get some more of the bean soup that is Alabama Jack’s specialty. We walked across the bridge and watched an impressive sailboat pass under, with all her canvas spread. After lunch we took our skiff back into the mangrove swamp to an open lake where Grandpa had caught a big crocodile about 1925, but we didn’t see any crocs that trip. We did see a flock of flamingoes, flying to our east and highlighted by the setting sun. That was the last outing I had with my grandpa before he passed. This trip I got some more bean soup, and it’s just as good now as it was 45 years ago. Jack’s has expanded. There’s a large outdoor dining area with enough tables to keep four or five servers busy at mid-week lunch hour. This dining area is built on a wooden dock and if you drop some bread between the cracks, Mangrove Snappers will gobble it up. A Red-Wing Blackbird hopped around, picking up scraps that didn’t fall through the cracks and the ever-present schools of Needlefish patrolled for anything the birds and snappers might have missed. If you get down to Alabama Jacks, a bowl of bean soup with a side of conch fritters and a cold beer is hard to beat. They still have a country band on Sunday afternoons, but that’s a whole different scene. Assuming that Sunday afternoons at Alabama Jacks haven’t changed any more than the bean soup has, just bring your dancin’ boots and your favorite knife or pistol and you’ll be ready for a Sunday afternoon down there. Y’all hang tough. “Rat”

Arizona Al		05-Jul-2009 14:30
Happy Birthday USA! Spending a long 4th of July weekend in Idylwyld, California around 6000ft. in the San Jascinto Mountains. Mild days and cool nights...a fantastic change from the 105 degree days and 90 degree nights in the Sonoran Desert. No fireworks, however, due to high wildfire potential. Oh well, it is not the destination but the journey that matters. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in the San Jacinto Mountains 7/4/2009

Jackie		05-Jul-2009 03:45
Happy Birthday, USA!! I hope you all had as good a July 4th as we did in north Georgia. Our friends came from South Florida to escape the rains. The weather was perfect - in the 80's during the day and 70's by evening, and always a cooling breeze... great for cooking out, visiting with friends and family , and watching fireworks without pesky mosquitoes. Thanks to you all for sharing your memories of launches from the Cape.. The closest I ever got was the parking lot at work in West Palm. Even that was thrilling to watch.

Charles Knight		05-Jul-2009 03:36
Hi folks, happy birthday USA!!! I took my daughter to a party celebrating our independance from those pesky Brits (my ancestors LOL!). The party was hosted by five or six families in one neighborhood here and it really took me back to a simpler time! All the kids were playing together, while us parents cooked, ate, and socialized...Some folks had a few beers, some of us didn't (I had to drive home afterward). The fireworks were terrific and there were lots of 'em, for the first time since my daughters birth seven years ago I felt comfortable with her playing after dark. It reminded me of the parties and holidays of my youth in Miami. You know what? Life is still pretty darned good, all you have to do is surround yourself with good folks that care about each other (like yourselves) and let go of your paranoia (mine?) long enough to relax and enjoy it! I remember Friday community fish frys, and fireworks, and friendly community minded folks, until tonight I had thought it all "extinct", I'm very glad that I was wrong. Charlie.

Roberta Perry Hughes		04-Jul-2009 05:47
Ooops! Meant Great, nor Hreat...sorry!

Roberta Perry Hughes		04-Jul-2009 05:45
LARGO...Hey! Hreat to hear from you again...! Oh, yes ma'am...! Savannah is fantastic to visit! I also just adore Charleston, SC, as well. Both have some fantastic homes, with Widow's Walks, antique shops to die for, & seafood restaurants out the wazoo...! Plus, Savannah has Paula Deen & Sons...!! Your hometown is fantastic, too. Have not been there since I was a child, however, but what I recall of it was very very fascinating, & I love the Spanish architecture that abounds there. We are all so very lucky, to have this most wonderful website to go to, whenever we miss Our Town, & the way it used to be, & to remember the way we were then, too, & neighbors & our parents. The many memories, of those who share them with us, are food for the soul, & they are enlightening, & enriching, too, & I never tire, of reading it all...everyday, in fact..! The Galleries preserve our rich heritage, & we can view our old haunts, & buildings & business, long gone, through the many images shared, & all thanks to Don's mega efforts, to bring it all to us, with just one click of the mouse...! WOWEE...!! I wish that other cities had similar websites, like Savannah, Charleston, St. Augustine, & Atlanta, for others to see how they once were, before so-called progress altered their faces forever. Have Don send me your email address. I want to send you a link. Again, it's great to see you on here once more...! Nike...Parks...Charles...et. al...I was totally enchanted, with your threads about the launches from the Cape...! How awesome it must have been, to witness such a site, & to even feel it...! Thank you, for making me feel almost like I was there, too...! Great stuff, guys...! More, please... Have a wonderful & safe Independence Day, everyone...! May the weather be kind, wherever you are, & may you not over eat, nor over do it. Enjoy...!

LARGO		03-Jul-2009 23:22
MZ. ROBERTA PERRY HUGHS.......MY SISTER LINDA WHO HAS A TOUR BUSINESS WAS THE RECIPIENT OF 4 DAYS 3 NITES IN GEORGA'S BEAUTIFUL SAVANNAH....I HAVE TO TELL YOU WE HAD A BALL......SHE HAD A FARTHER TRIP THAN I......ALL THE WAY FROM E. TENNESSEE...MYSELF FROM ST. AUGUSTINE TO SAVANNAH....2 AND 1/2 HOURS....SHE HAD AT LEAST 5 1/2.......BUT THE HOSPITALITY WAS SO GREAT...AND WE WERE INVITED BACK........JUST WANTED TO SHARE WITH MY GA. SISTER.........LARGO

Charles Knight		03-Jul-2009 04:48
Charles...Great stories about liftoffs etc. I am not affiliated with the space program in any way but am fortunate to live in Satellite Beach and watch liftoffs almost weekly it seems! The Shuttles are the best, I especially like night launches...We have big parties on the beach with BBQ's, bonfires and fireworks, it's a blast!

Jeff		03-Jul-2009 02:12
It was just my damned luck - the lunar landing was on July 20th, 1969 - one day AFTER my 17th birthday... so there went the chance for me to claim a bit of history on "my" day... LOL! A side note - if anyone familiar with Miami Beach in the 1960's remembers Paul's Barber shop in the 1400 block of Alton Road - I just learned my dear friend Paul Limppo passed away on June 6th. He was in his 80's and suffered for years with bad health - but was always a happy man of good spirits. He leaves a wife (Dorothy) of 64 years and four surviving children.

Parks		03-Jul-2009 00:40
Charles, Thank you so much for telling that story. I was at the press site that day. I was told that the press site was 3 miles from the pad so you were significantly closer. You mention feeling the pounding on your chest from the blast, we felt that 3 miles away also. There was water between the press site and the pad. When that big rocket lit off, you could see a shock wave travel across the water. It was frightening to see it coming at you, then it hit like a fist to your chest. It was magnificent! The whole Apollo 11 crew plus John Glenn are scheduled to be at the Smithsonian on July 19. I'm going to try to be there.

charlis		02-Jul-2009 22:31
Mike... we made so many trips to "the Cape" that I could give the tour! Never got to see a live launch... but my ex's will states that he want's his ashes scattered on LP39.

charlis		02-Jul-2009 22:02
mike... I have horrible memories of the Cuban Missle Crisis... my mother grew up in Germany during WW2 and every time the "practice" sirens went off, she headed for the closet! But the Space program memories brought back fond memories... my boyfriend at the time (later became my hubby, now my ex) often had to cancel dates because of launches. He wanted to be an astronuat so badly.

Nike252		02-Jul-2009 09:40
Once the pad is evacuated, we retreat to the VAB to the firing room. We have a part at a console during the actual launch sequence. As soon as ignition occurs, we turn around and watch the actual launch from only 1.5 miles. It is a beautiful moment when the 7.5 million pounds of thrust begins to lift that 360' tall piece of all of us off the pad. As it climbs and clears the tower, it starts a slow roll and cants slightly to get over the ocean which is just a few fundred yards away. At liftoff, Houston has taken over and our job is complete for this mission. Everyone's eyes are glued to the Saturn V with Apollo 11 at the top. As the cheering stops, all eyes are upward and the waves of Saturn V's five thunderous engines reaches us. As it increases, we still refuse to take our eyes of the Saturn rocket waiting for the first section seperation. It feels like someone is pounding on your chest with their fists. At just past 3 minutes, the first stage (S-1C) fuels tanks separate and everyone cheers, realizing tears are streamin down their cheeks. What an emotional moment. Yes, big boys do cry. After the Saturn V dissappears from view, we all head to Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral to one of he many lounges that will be hosting "launch parties." Various astonauts in town to view the launch drop by to share in the festivities. At work the next day, we conduct an inspection of the launch unbilical tower (LUT) for damage to our equipment and begin any repairs or replacement. What we really care about is how the mission is going and of course the moon walk. Our overall mission goal was a successful launch, lunar walk, collection of samples, return from the lunar surface to the Command Module and return to earth safely. Our company's mission (I worked for IBM) was for the IU to take them out of earth's orbit and into lunar orbit. My personal mission was all of the above and being home to watch the the first steps by Neil Armstrong on our black and white television. We did and I did. What a moment, what a memory!! Who would have thought this could actually happen to a kid who played with model rockets at SW 6th Street and 34th Ave (Auburndale Elementary) could be a part of this historic moment? I'm glad I was part of it and can now share it with others. Charles

Parks		02-Jul-2009 03:45
Charles, That's a wonderful story! Now every time I think of the moon landing I'll think of those pictures. Did you see the Saturn 5 the night before the launch? It was pure white and bathed in about a billion candle power of spotlights that went streaming towards the heavens. I think it was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. Where were you for the launch?

Nike252		01-Jul-2009 14:48
Parks and Miami River Rat, I have many great memories of my time in south Florida during and after the Cuban Missile Crisis 1962-1965 and my time at Kennedy Space Center on the Apollo Saturn Program until 1972. One of the best stories is about the Apollo 11 launch which occurred 40 years ago this month. I was hired by IBM to work on the Instrumentation Unit (IU) as a reult of my military experience with Nike Hercules missiles. My primary duties, among many other things, were to assemble the IU to the other stages of the Saturn V and Apollo sections, install and check out the flight control and guidance computers and work as a team member during all the various tests and final launch. These two computers guided the Saturn V out of earth's orbit and Apollo 11 into lunar orbit. Once in lunar orbit, the IU was jettisoned into deep space never to be seen again. Some way to say "thanks for the fun ride to the moon." The Lunar Excursion Module (LEM) hung down into the IU during assembly and pre-launch. Since the LEM became the launching pad for the Space Module with the astronauts to return to meet with the Command Mudule when their work on the lunar surface was completed, it remaind on the lunar surface. You've seen the pictures of the Lunar Excursion Module (LEM) wrapped in gold foil for thermodynamics. There were several layers of this foil. The LEM in our work area during pre-launch, so, during the final hour we worked inside the IU before we evacuated for launch, we inserted pictures of our family and friends between the layers of this foil which means they are still on the moon. So, when you see pictures of the LEM parked on the moon with Neil Armstrong taking his final step, my pictures are just to the left of the latter near the plaque mounted on the ladder. When you see the moon, you can tell your kids, "I know a guy who is still there." Just another day at work. Charles

Roberta Perry Hughes		01-Jul-2009 09:59
To: Don Boyd, dear friend, and host, for OldMiamiMemories... There is a Web Master named Don-- Who labors at night, or full sun--! To bring us these pages, A gift for the ages--! My respect and devotion, he's won--! His Galleries, we all most enjoy--! But this is hard work--not a toy--! With this brief conversation, I include my donation-- To thank him, for giving such joy--! Roberta, up late, as usual, in the Peach State, in support of my favorite site on the Web---& to honor its generous host, our own Don Boyd.

Miami River Rat		01-Jul-2009 03:45
Parks, I'm really impressed! Now you're an official Miami River Rat, and the best I can be is self-proclaimed. I could, however, tell a tale or two about those tugboats, gravel barges, and some rum "salvaged" by people I won't name, even if they have been dead for oh, thirty years or so. Good goin', Dude!

Parks		01-Jul-2009 03:31
Charles, You must have been at the Cape for the Apollo 11 launch. Have you got some stories about that for us? We're fast approaching the 40th anniversary. Rat, I was officially pronounced a Miami River Rat today by a Hempstead in the presence of a Byrd. The Hempstead family has run Hempstead Towing (tug boats) on the Miami River for more than fifty years. The Byrd family has been in the diving and salvage business on the river at least that long. I was felt very honored.

Guest		01-Jul-2009 01:44
MR Rat I was qualified on Nike Hercules Missiles. The Cuban Missile Crisis brought anyone qualified in missiles to south Florida. We lived in tents for 2 1/2 years but I went home to my bedroom on SW 7th off SW 34th Avenue when on pass. After I got out in 65, I went to Kennedy Space Center and got hired for the Saturn Program by IBM. I moved to Atlanta in 72 and been here since. I still love Miami and call it "home." Charles

Roberta Perry Hughes		30-Jun-2009 06:57
Rat...ewwww...! Getting hit by a rotten guava is soooooooooo gross...!! (gag). But I remember getting hit by one, once. Retreated into the house, to shower & change clothes, to be sure...! ick. The guacamole I am familiar with is ripe avocados, mashed, blended well with sour cream, to the consistency of a dip, which is its purpose. Some Mexican restaurants will add some Picante sauce to it, for texture & heat, but I prefer just the sour cream. A seeded avocado quarter slice is delicious with a sprinkle of black pepper. There is no describing an avocado, except maybe, to say that it has a buttery texture, & that the flavor is unique. It compliments Mexican fare, of course, but is also grand, with fried Red Snapper, Grouper, & fried shrimp. The monkeys at Crandon Park ate roseapples, a lot. They just loved them, & were so cute, with their miniature "people hands," as they ate their fruits, the whole time, watching us, watching them. I wonder if they thought that we were cute, too...?? Mercy me...! My taste buds are grieving...!!

Miami River Rat		30-Jun-2009 05:38
Roberta: "(cubed ripe avocado, tossed with finely chopped onion, & key lime juice)". We have a Mexican restaurant here in Alabama that features that as their "House guacamole", and it's truly good. I can never find the real avocados in the groceries here. And you mentioned roseapples...I had forgotten them. We had a big tree of roseapples, delicious to eat and as much fun to throw as green guavas. Throwing rules: Green guavas and roseapples at guys, over-ripe or rotten guavas at sisters and their girl friends. Charles Carter, thanks for the detailed report on the missile sites. And how did you manage to get stationed back home? I enlisted in the Air Force in December of 1959 and thought I wanted to get sent to Homestead AFB but that never happened. Just as well, I suppose, looking back on it with 20/20 hindsight. Later...

Arizona Al		30-Jun-2009 02:13
While living in Cutler Ridge 1955-1964 the houses across the street (Nassau Drive) backed to a Mango Grove so we always had an abundance. In our front yard was an avacado tree. There was a guava tree and several citrus trees (orange, tangerine and grapefruit) in the back yard. Never realized that the rest of the world was not so blessed until later in life when I left Miami in 1969. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Guest		29-Jun-2009 16:45
Rat, The missile site referred to by Parks on 29 June was a HAWK site, not a Nike site. Charles Carter U.S. Army Nike Veteran

Roberta Perry Hughes		29-Jun-2009 08:58
Ooooh, y'all...If only they could be shipped, & not perish in this godawful heat...(sigh). We had a wonderful producing Hayden mango tree in our yard, at S.W. 55th Street, plus, a grafted avocado tree, that produced HUGE fruits, to give us a steady supply of Conch Salads with our seafood. (cubed ripe avocado, tossed with finely chopped onion, & key lime juice). We had a key lime tree, Loquats, Kumquats, & papayas. We would trade with our neighbors, who had guavas, hog plums, sapadillos, & rose apples. They was always plenty to go around, to share, trade, or even sell. We knew where every Florida cherry hedge was, & raided them, on the way home from Blue Lakes Elementary, on S.W. 56th Street. You cannot even begin to describe the flavors & textures of our tropical fruits, to someone who never grew up around them. So many geographical regions are cheated, out of ever knowing the delight of eating these wonderful fruits. I order Palmalito guava jelly online, from The Jelly Cupboard. However, they do not carry the guava butter, nor the guava paste. I envy y'all getting to make a trip down, just to stock up on the goodies Our Town affords. Lucky you...!!

Don Boyd		29-Jun-2009 04:44
Miami Girl, no, the lawsuit by the county against Wackenhut has not been settled and it will probably take a long time like most complicated cases. The feds won't cancel an existing federal contract because of problems that a contractor has with local, county or state governments, even if it involves alleged fraudulent billing. Rat, thanks for trip comments. Now I'm tempted to drive south to get a bunch of really good mangoes. Don

Parks		29-Jun-2009 03:55
Hi Rat, Thanks for the tip on guava butter. My wife and I drove down to Homestead today and picked up a jar along with mangos, hog plums and other goodies. We had a mango smoothy at Fairchild's Williams Grove and bought three different varieties of mango to try. The mango and lychee season is in full swing. We also found the remains of one of the Nike missile bases that Charles Carter had written about earlier. It's located at SW 216 street and 207th avenue. There are three steel radar towers still standing. They are being covered by vines growing up the legs. They seem to be on private property now so I couldn't get very close.

Chuck Stewart		28-Jun-2009 21:37
Jumpin' Jack O'Brien has a new Facebook group. Check out old videos and pictures. http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=198631575566

Miami Girl		28-Jun-2009 13:30
Al and Don, I also was a classmate of Rick Wackenhut. I last saw him at the '95 reunion and he looked great. My understanding is he sold the company before the alligations of misconduct began. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. I was very surprised the other day when we were entering Ft. Gordon, GA and saw the security is contracted out to Wackenhut. If they still have a gov't contracts, they must have corrected the problems???? Or am I living in a dream world???

Roberta Perry Hughes		28-Jun-2009 05:57
Miami River Rat...Loved your travelog...! More, please...!

Miami River Rat		27-Jun-2009 15:15
Return to Wonderland (Miami) First off: Charles Knight, best wishes on the marriage! Now to address my recent trip: Had a nice ride down, stopping at Spring Hill, North of Tampa, overnight. Managed to avoid interstate highways except for a short distance to get around the Tampa/St. Pete. Area. U.S. 19 from Albany, Georgia to Spring Hill is a dream; a divided 4-lane highway with NO traffic. All the trucks and tourists are over on I-75. Florida had an unusual cold snap last winter, and palm tree fronds were showing brown from frost all the way down south as far as LaBelle. I know it’s hard to imagine but there’s now a restaurant in Immokalee! Ate a pretty good BBQ sandwich there. Rainy season had started early and the canals were very much full. Except for in the Everglades park. They siphon off most of the water that’s legally supposed to go to the southern everglades to supply the sugar, citrus and construction industries in Broward and Palm Beach counties. The greedy rape of South Florida continues, but that’s old news. Mango season also started early and I got some great, ripe, Hayden mangoes. You don’t appreciate a tree-ripe Hayden until you buy a few of the fruits the grocery stores in other parts of the country sell as “mangoes”! Made my obligatory stop at Robert Is Here and loaded up on a year’s supply of guava jelly, orange marmalade, mango preserves and guava butter. If you’re in the area, pick up some guava butter. This year’s guava butter has been made with the red guavas rather than the yellow, and it’s super tasty! Enough for now, more will follow. “Rat”

Arizona Al		26-Jun-2009 14:28
Don: Thanks for the G-2 on Wackenhut. I suppose that Ricky Wackenhut took over the business some time ago. The last time I saw Ricky was 1964 when he was on the way to college at The Citadel and I was on my way to the U.S. Army. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		26-Jun-2009 02:39
Arizona Al: Wackenhut is really on the county's excrement list for allegedly overbilling the county for millions over the years with their Metrorail/Metromover contract and there's a lawsuit in the works. It only took our inept county government four long years to do something about it after allegations surfaced. More at: http://privateofficernews.wordpress.com/2009/04/12/wackenhut-security-to-be-replaced-at-miami-dade-transit-wwwprivateofficercom/ Charles the Nike Man: thank you for your kind offer and I will borrow a few shots from you and put them up since most people down here didn't even know there were Nike sites around the county. Of course the credit will go to you along with sincere thanks. I'm sorry I've been mostly unresponsive but I'm buried in stuff to do and I need more hours in a day to get them all done. I'll get caught up one of these days. Thanks for your patience. Roberta: I'm glad to hear that you're alive and kicking, and thanks for posting. Whitebelt: I'm glad your long road trip to Floriduh and back was safe and that your memory got jogged. I still can't believe we grew up without A/C in the good old days because I really hate being hot and sticky now except for decreasingly rare events that I won't describe further. Jeff: thank you for adding your comments and memories, as usual. William Chance: welcome to the site! Thank you for your comments and for posting your memories. What elementary schools did you attend before Mae M. Walters? New photos posted: the Louden sisters, who grew up down the street from me, sent me scans from the 1962-63 yearbook from Dr. John G. DuPuis Elementary in the Palm Springs section of Hialeah which was near and dear to me. The yearbook is four years behind me age-wise but it contains a ton of kids who grew up in my neighborhood from 1957 through the 60's and others are younger sisters or brothers of kids who were my age. I'll be adding the 5th through 1st grade photos in the near future. Two DuPuis 6th graders already posted in the gallery are worthy of mentioning: Harry Casey who went on to become KC of KC and the Sunshine Band and beautiful Robyn Porter, whose dad used her in his artwork for the original Coppertone toddler and dog advertisement. The gallery is up in the Hialeah gallery, specifically at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/memories_hialeah_dupuis http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/114082660 - the page with Harry Casey and Robyn Porter Don

Arizona Al		25-Jun-2009 15:43
And who could forget Wackenhut Security which started in Miami in the 1950s and is now an international corporation. I went to Palmetto High with Ricky Wackenhut the founder's son. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		25-Jun-2009 00:43
Don't forget RG Industries and Intratec. RG made cheap handguns and Intratec made the Tec9.

Jeff		23-Jun-2009 13:53
William... I think you're right about the pickle plant In Opa-locka. I believe the name was Sea Shore... People tend to think of South Florida as just sun and ocean, but we had a lot of light industry over the years as well as a number of "home grown" manufacturing and retail businesses... some even went on to national fame, such as Burger King and Eastern Airlines... Here's some past local businesses [both manufacturing and retail sales] to stir your memories... Dobbs Brothers Book Binding Cobbs Fruit Shippers Sareze Sportswear (swim suits) Mal Marshall Fashions (home of the Cubaverra shirt) ABC Jalousie (Adams Engineeering) Home Milk June Dairy Euster Furniture Panelfab Tower Paint Company Webster Outdoor Advertising (billboards) Plough Chemical Company (originators of Coppertone) Jefferson Home and Auto Stores (later to become Jefferson's Dept. Stores) Tone Record Distributors (home of TK Records and the "Miami Sound") Margaret Ann Food Stores (absorbed into Winn Dixie)

William Chance		23-Jun-2009 10:22
Well, after 18 hrs I've still only scratched the surface of the Wonderful site.I was born at NorthShore Hosp in 1953 and have lived all over Dade County till I moved in 1978 to Charlotte NC.Living mainly in Westwood Lakes area 112th and Bird and near Gables 57th and Coral Way.Went to alot of Elementary schools,Mae M Walters in Hialeah,being the last.Riveria Jr and finally Graduated from Southwest in 71.Going through the comments and pics brought back a flood of memories,the Yumbrella,Frankies pizza, Arbetters,Pizza Patio, and only a true Miami native could remember Mittens dump.My first job at Tyler's at the Concord Shopping Center.I have vague childhood memories of a Pickle Plant near Opa-loka ,the smell of Dill pickles filled the air whenever we rode by it.Fishing the Tamiami canal,Coon hunting with my Dad in the Glades at night,without guns.I can honestly say I never saw a snake on any of our night time hunts.Anyone remember the Tomato dump located of Kendall Dr with the mountains of rotting tomato's.My Dad and I hunted back there.I'm planning a visit with my Mom in WPB in the next month or so,taking my 13 yr old son with me,and hope to get to spend at least one day showing him the Old sights of my misspent youth.I was last in "Our Town" in 89 with my then wife,Took me hours to find my Dads old house out in Horse Country.From his front door all you could see were Vegetable fields as far as the eye could see.I hope to be a regular on this site now that I have found it, Oh yea I currently live in Ashtabula,Ohio ,been here since 1990.

whitebelt		22-Jun-2009 14:04
Took a trip to Florida a couple of weeks ago. Had my memory jogged about a few things there growing up. Such as the heat, humidity, too frequent grass and shrubbery cutting, and the bugs. How did we survive that? I thank the British for liberating us guys from Vaseline hair tonic. Nothing like that greasy kid stuff in that heat and humidity for causing ring around the collar. And God bless the air conditioning industry.

Roberta Perry Hughes		22-Jun-2009 06:08
Greetings, to all... My sincerest good wishes to all of the Posters for a Happy Fathers Day. I hope that your day was a special one, with family, & friends...especially, your kids & grands!! (If you were lucky, someone made you some Beer Butt Chicken...oooh! it's soooo good!!) And, in Memoriam, for all of our father's, who were our heads-of-household, in those early years, when the buildings, businesses, & places we went, were still in existence, on the streets, avenues, & boulevards, in our beloved Old Dade County. Hugs to you all. Roberta

Charles Knight		21-Jun-2009 02:14
Ha Ha...We should all have such terrible problems!

Guest		20-Jun-2009 11:19
Mrs. McKee was a great teacher!ep

Guest		19-Jun-2009 20:27
I suppose Mrs. McKee, my 7th grade English teacher at Shenandoah Jr High in 1957, was right about my (in)ability to spell.

Guest		19-Jun-2009 20:26
CK, In my posting previous to my aploogy, I misspelled "welcome" with "welsome." Nike252

Charles Knight		19-Jun-2009 19:55
Whattt! Who are you and what is mis-spelled?

Guest		19-Jun-2009 19:09
OK, I'll check my spelling in the future before I click the "SUBMIT" button

Guest		19-Jun-2009 19:08
Don, It was a pleasure talking with you. You are welsome to post any of the Nike site photos I sent you with credits. I will keep you posted on my Nike252 website progress and when I flip the "upload" switch for all to enjoy. Let me know of any further assistance I can be. Charles Nike252

Don Boyd		18-Jun-2009 21:52
Charles, thank you very much for the additional information you have provided and for the telephone call this afternoon where we covered a lot of topics. Don

Nike252		18-Jun-2009 21:04
Don, Parks and Whitebelt, Thank you all for your replies and comments. I grew up in Miami off SW 34th Ave and 8th Street and attended Miami High. I joined the Army in 1962 and after basic training was assigned to the Nike Missile site in Carol City. I have added a gallary (Missiles in Miami) with a couple of photos of our tents and missiles. The first site was accessed off Maimi Gardens Drive down a sandy road between NW 57th and what is now NW 47th. The administration and radars were in an area that had been developed as a subdivision but the utilities and roads never completed after grading. About a mile further west, beside Canal C-9 was the launche area with the missiles. Unlike other Nike Hercules missile sites, we were above ground due to the water table. We lived in tents until June 1965 when the Army Corps of engineers build the permenant site on the other side of NW 57th. The adminsitration and radars were near th intersection of NW 183rd and NW 57th and the launch area was located at NW 202 & 57th behind the trainel park which wasn't there then. There were 12 Nike Hercules missiles that were divided among three sections of four missiles. One missile in each section were nuclear-tipped. There were never any HAWK (Homing All The Way Killer) missiles in this part of Miami. However, ther were 8 HAWK batteries in south Florida: 4 in the Perrine, Homestead area and 4 in Key West. HaAWK missiles were for low altitude-low speed incoming and Nike Hercules were for high altitude- high speed incoming aircraft or missiles. Nike Hercules 1962 - 1965 A Battery - Just outside the entrance to Everglades National Park (ENP) on the right as you enter ENP across from where Aerojet General tested the Saturn V rocket motors. B Battery - Adjacent to A Battery C Battery - Described above D Battery - About a mile south of Tamiami Trail (US 41) on Krome Avenue (US 27) on the right going south. The Adminsitration and radar area for all Nike bateries were always about a mile away which was requried for safety and for th required angle fo the missile tracking radar to acquire the Nike at takeoff. 1965 - 1979 A Battery - Inside ENP to Hole in the Donut B Battery - North Key Largo near where Card Sound Road dead ends C Battery - As described above NW 183rd and NW 57th D Battery - Near the same location as previously Current Status A Battery - Recently placed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Public tours are available January - April. No missiles or radars exist (we are trying to locate and return some to A Battery) but the section barns, missile assembly and warhead building and twenty other original structures remain. The adminsitration building is now the Daniel Beard Research Center. The custodian is the National Park Services and loated at the Earnest Coe Visitors Center inside Everglades National Park. B Battery - The Administration area exists in a delapidated condition including buildings and radar towers. It is the property of the Florida Parks and the custodian is located at Pennecamp State Park. C Battery - The administration building and radar towers have all been demolished and replaced with commercial and government buildings. The the only thing that remains of the launch area are the berms made of limestone, coral rock, oolite or whatever the description of the week is. The berms were piled up to protect the concrete console firing room. The section barns remained until a couple of years ago. There are plans for a private development and it is actually in the City of Miramar. D Battery - The adminstration and radar towers are all gone except the remnents of a couple of buildings. This area is used for target practice by the INS. The launch area is now the Krome Avenue INS Detention Center. The section barns still exist as training rooms, dorms and a mess hall. The ready room is adminsitration offices. Richmond NAS near the new Miami Zoo (I still see the zoo at Crandon Park in my mind) was referred to as AADCAP. It was the operations center that coordinated the entire Homestead-Miami Air Defense network of Nike Hercules and HAWK missiles. I have many photos during all of these eras. I am working on a website that will provide a narrative and photographic history of America's air defense in south Florida during and after the Cuban Missile Crisis 1962-1979. Charles D. Carter Atlanta CharlesCarter@NECI911.com

Miami Girl		18-Jun-2009 20:14
Al: No, I didn't know Jim. Hope he took his own advise and went on to bigger and better things. Ned Reep was enough for me -- the little bully!!

Arizona Al		18-Jun-2009 17:10
Miami Girl: Jim was a couple of years older than me and would have been in the 5th and 6th grades when you and I were 3rd and 4th grades. Later on he used to hang with the Reeps and the Mackinellys (noted delinquents and hooligans) after he dropped out of school at age 16. He went into the Army in 1962 when I lost track of him until last year. Right before he went into the Army he told me something I never forgot " Alan, get as much education as you can." I followed his sage advice! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami Girl		16-Jun-2009 15:59
Alan, the name sounds familiar but I can't place the face. I've posted my 3rd and 4th grade class photos from Perrine - is he in one of those classes? It's so depressing when we have so many old friends who start passing away. DARN -- I do not want to get old, but every day wake up with a new pain (no, not talking about my husband LOL).

Leighton		16-Jun-2009 04:56
Roberta, Understand the lack of sleep. I lucked out, and received some pills from a friend. Temporary solution, but I'm not complaining. Not missing Texas one bit, and loving these mountains, but looking forward to finding a job.

Arizona Al		16-Jun-2009 03:15
Miami Girl: Do you remember Jim Brecht from Perrine Elementary School? I just heard from his daughter and was informed that he passed away last week. He and I got into a lot of "mischief" in elementary and jr. high school in the 1950s and 1960s. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami Girl		15-Jun-2009 23:21
I remember those missile sites in what used to be the tomato fields east of Cutler Ridge. Prior to those sites being set up - right after the Cuban Missile Crisis, the soldiers or airmen (not sure which) were camped out in our gym and locker rooms at Palmetto High -- that was so cool for us Jr. High girls!! Roberta, glad to hear from you - stay strong!

whitebelt		15-Jun-2009 22:06
Richmond Naval Air Station was also a player in the air defense network. Not as a missile site, but as command and control.

whitebelt		15-Jun-2009 21:31
The missile bases were part of the 31st Artillery Brigade (Air Defense) headquartered at Homestead AFB. The Nike bases were the 2/52 if I remember right, and the Hawks maybe 8/64. I may be wrong on the Hawk unit. There was a Nike site, I think it was A company out in the hole in the doughnut in Everglades Park, C Company was in Carol City, D Company was the one at Krome Ave. I think it was B Company that was located in north Key Largo. Nike sites were fixed sites. Hawk sites were mobile. The Hawk sites would perform maneuvers on occasion around Snake Creek and the Carol City site. One of the Hawk sites was in South Dade east of Old Cutler. I can't remember the name of the road at the moment. There was a site near Key West if I remember correctly, another in Key Largo, and another in south Dade. I was assigned to the 31st Brigade but attached to the Signal Team there. I visited all of the sites at one time or another but my memory is fuzzy on the Hawk units. There may have been one more unit

Roberta Perry Hughes		15-Jun-2009 14:58
Miami Girl...Thanks for asking about me...! I'm still around. Just keeping sort of quiet, due to sleep deprivation. I need to get a good Rx. hypnotic, & just sleep for several days on end, if that's possible. I am quite exhausted. Hope y'all are all well, & that your weather is kind to you, wherever you are. I'll catch up with y'all later on, when I'm more up-to-snuff. Hugs to all...

Don Boyd		15-Jun-2009 07:28
Charles, yes I would love to correct the errors. Please e-mail me at OldMiamiMemories@gmail.com . Thanks. Don

Parks		15-Jun-2009 04:00
Charles D, Carter, I would love to hear your stories of the missile bases in South Florida. I’m trying to locate as many of them as I can. I know of four locations. They might not all have been Nike bases. Weren’t there also Hawk bases in South Florida? There is the base located in Everglades National Park and there are the remains of one on Key Largo just south of the Ocean Reef Club. The two others that I remember have been built over. One was located on SW 248 Street, (I think) as far west as you could go before you are stopped by a canal. The other was on SW 87th Avenue just north of the Black Point Marina. Do you remember others? Am I right about 248th Street?

Nike252		15-Jun-2009 01:59
Don, Thank you for all the memories of Miami where I grew up and was also stationed on several of the Nike Hercules Missile sites in south Florida. After reading the information about the Nike site just off Red Road and Miami Gardens Drive, I discovered some obvious errors and would like to set the record straight. I suspect you would like to have any errors corrected also. Kindest regards, Charles D. Carter

Miami Girl		14-Jun-2009 23:25
Roberta, where are you? You aren't normally this quiet! Hope you're doin' ok.

charlis		14-Jun-2009 21:02
largo... St. A is a great place. Haven't been there in years but had an "aunt" who was part of the archeological society there. Got to see a few great "digs" she was working on.

Fran		13-Jun-2009 19:36
Largo, Sorry, it's true you do have a wonderful place to live. I have friends who have retired there. They love the cold as well as the hot, hot, hot.

LARGO		13-Jun-2009 18:06
ALB & FRAN...DON'T FORGET OLD ST. AUGUSTINE..WE JUST RECEIVED THE #9 IN THE 10 BEST PLACES TO LIVE & WORK OR RETIRE IN THE COUNTRY. I LOVE IT HERE...LITTLE COLDER IN WINTER THAN OLD MIAMI..BUT HAS MUCH OF THE OLD FLAVOR..LOTS TO DO AND VERY FRIENDLY...LOTS OF GHOSTS TOO..LOL... LARGO

charlis		09-Jun-2009 22:26
Don... I still get a kick out of the name change... the area is more known for Miami Beach so it should have been known as Miami Beach-Dade County... but the areas is also known for the Everglades... ergo... Everglades-Dade, or just Everglades. What about all the "cities" in the county... Homestead, Hialeah, etc.!

Don Boyd		09-Jun-2009 05:55
Here's an article on how the county's name was changed from Dade to Miami-Dade in 1997: http://www.biscaynetimes.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=319:twisting-history-for-shameless-pride&catid=37:neighborhood-correspondents-belle-meade&Itemid=153 Don

Fran		08-Jun-2009 22:54
Alb, You might want to try Tequesta, Fla. The water ways are beautiful, shop and visit the coffee shops too. Friends are easily made and the weather is awesome. Don't rule out Melbourne, Florida or Coco Beach either. Good luck!

Alb		08-Jun-2009 22:18
I've been reading the posts about moving out of Miami. After growing up in Miami and living here for over 55 years I'm definitely moving out but don't know where to relocate to. Is there a general concensus about an area to move to? I like the idea of "old Miami" somewhere else. Any recommendations will be appreciated.

charlis		06-Jun-2009 19:30
jeff... thanks... about Photo Craft. I was a regular customer during the time I lived at West Dixie Towers. My favorite photo shop, the one that helped me really get into photography was the one near South Beach. Can't remember the owners' names but they were the ones who started up the franchised "drop off" locations. I think one of them was also involved in the big cruise line that sailed out of the port... PhotoHut... just remembered the name as I was getting ready to post.

Don Boyd		06-Jun-2009 12:27
Leighton, congrats on your safe move from Texas to east Tennessee. We're just south of Nashville for a few days and the weather is perfect as you say and a really nice change from Miami's weather right now. Good luck on getting settled and out and about on the job search. Don

Leighton		06-Jun-2009 04:30
Arrived!!! East TN is beautiful - and it is in the 50s tonight!!! After SA's 98 degrees a week ago, this is great. Unfortunately, the nasty highways of Louisiana wreaked havoc on my Penske truck, and my grandfather's sailfish took a beating - he caught it in Fort Lauderdale in 51. Have already dropped it off at the taxidermist for repairs. It was one of my prized possessions. I realize that most of it is "fake", but it DOES have a few of the original "parts". Fortunately, my Dad has a spare room at his church, and I loaded it up with my 70 boxes and furniture - ALL items are vintage 50s/60s. My apartment looked like a "Florida Room" from 1959 Miami. Two days of rest, and off on the job hunt.

Jeff		05-Jun-2009 19:41
Charlis... You'd definitely know where the art studio was... In the early 70's it was Photo Craft, the photo processing lab directly across the street from Carvel at NE 131st Street and West Dixie Hwy.

Charles Knight		05-Jun-2009 19:32
Thanks Charlis, not many family members are coming, it was too "short notice".

charlis		04-Jun-2009 23:10
Charles... congrats! Will the local, Tampa area, family be at the wedding?

charlis		04-Jun-2009 23:08
to those of you thinking of moving... keep Tampa off your list. The county is suffering from some serious budget cuts. Luckily I work for a department that will not suffer... I have a friend who lives in Volucia county... loves it there.... low population. He was born and raised in South Florida, moeved out of state, and when moving back, settled on Volusia.

charlis		04-Jun-2009 23:04
jeff.... OMG... your friend's studio... the name sounds familiar... was only a few blocks from where I lived in the early 70's. I sent you an email. The owner's name sounds familiar to me.

Don Boyd		04-Jun-2009 15:16
Charles, yes, that's been the plan for over 10 years to move up there but we had to wait for my wife to get her years in to retire from the school system. Now we're waiting for the housing market to improve which may be never. One of these years! "Goatboy" contributed a great old mid 1970's image of him and two buddies standing in the Pier Park parking lot on South Beach with the Playhouse bar and other buildings on Ocean Drive in the background (Individuals gallery). Thanks to Jeff Levine for identifying everything in the photo because "Goatboy" and I were unsure. Don

Jeff		03-Jun-2009 23:29
I hope Don will forgive me for this unorthodox request, but a good friend of mine's art gallery/studio/classroom was firebombed by an arsonist last night and he lost EVERYTHING - including 30 years of paintings, sketches, art books, photos - not to mention all of the art supplies, equipment, office supplies, etc. Here's Channel 10's story on it: www.justnews.com/news/19642575/detail.html If anyone out there is/was an artist and has any art supplies and/or office supplies they are no longer using, I'm trying to get a "network" of potential donors together to help him get up and running again ASAP (not counting the physical restructing of the damaged property)... Please drop me a line at jnl1952 at juno.com and let me know what you have and can send his way. I'll then compile all of the information and find out where I can get the stuff shipped to and stored. I'd do this all by myself, but regrettably I'm not in that kind of financial position. Thanks!

Miami Girl		03-Jun-2009 22:32
Thanks Alan, I wasn't sure what year C.K. was in. Roberta: Hope your "toothpick toe" is better. We're looking forward to coming to your neck of the woods in a few weeks - to Augusta where our son and family will be living upon their arrival back from 5 years in England. It may be the only summer heat we get this year - we're still having morning temps in the 30's up here in NY!! I do occasionally miss that humid summer air, but don't want any of that 105 degrees in Alan's neighborhood!!

Arizona Al		03-Jun-2009 13:15
Martha: If you are related to C.K. Hawley I remember him from Palmetto High. He was in the class of 1965..I graduated in 1964. Hello Miami Girl and Roberta! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in sweltering 105 degree Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		02-Jun-2009 17:02
Thanks, Miami Girl, I will do just that. I stopped in Tequesta in route to NJ a long time ago. Liked the look of it. I remember the armadillo in the motel parking lot. Big sucker.

Miami Girl		02-Jun-2009 16:37
Opps, forgot to add my nickname -- I'm not a guest, I live here!!

Guest		02-Jun-2009 16:36
Whitebelt: You might want to check out Tequesta, I have a friend who lives there on the waterfront and only about 2 blocks East of Rt 1 so it's an easy walk to the stores and beautiful old time CBS houses. Prices are a steal these days and the neighborhood is extremely safe. She loves it. Google Map Basin St. in Tequesta and you can see the area. Martha: Are you related to C.K. Hawley? I'm also a Ridge Rat (Palmetto class of '65)and remember him - an extremely nice quiet boy. Miami Girl

whitebelt		02-Jun-2009 15:28
Thanks for the input, guys. Will be down in that area this weekend. Will be checking out the whole coast, actually. Will start driving tomorrow morning. About 1900 miles from here. Brevard always looked kind of wild and wooly to me. The type area I would like would be like old Edgewater in Miami. Something residential just off the main drag. Someplace an old codger could walk to the coffee shop, someplace not so dependent on driving to get to. Easy access to a fishing spot would be nice, too, preferably salt water. Someplace I don't have to carry a gun, which I had to in Miami. I used to have to go up to that area to work once in a while. Never got to see or get the feel of it real well.

Charles Knight		02-Jun-2009 13:53
Whitebelt, I agree with Don...The Treasure Coast is nice but Brevard has "Old Miami" written all over it. That's why I'm here and staying. Port St Lucie, Port Malabar, Port St John, and Port Charlott were all started by General Development (early '60s Miami skyscaper) and feature 1960s cookie cutter houses, quite depressing in my opinion. I don't mean to be negative but there is more to explore out there. Here's wishing you the best. Don, I live less than five miutes from Patrick AFB, a lot of my daughters classmates are Air Force kids LOL! Are you really thinking about relocating to this area? I've met many "transplants" AND...You can get real Cuban food here without speaking Spanish! Comprende' Charlie.

Don Boyd		02-Jun-2009 03:39
Whitebelt, I'm like you, I don't like the Gulf coast at all and I prefer the east coast and the Atlantic. I'm strongly leaning towards the Cape Canaveral area because it reminds me a lot of Miami decades ago, it's under an hour to Orlando's big airport, I want to be close to Patrick AFB for the military benefits and I have numerous friends in the area who used to live down here. I'll send you an e-mail to discuss this further. Don

Ray		02-Jun-2009 01:02
For the people that like old maps, my friend Adam gave me these two links: Miami Beach 1921-24:http://www.uflib.ufl.edu/ufdc/?c=sanborn&m=hd1X&i=160849&vo=3 Miami 1921: http://www.uflib.ufl.edu/ufdc/?c=sanborn&m=hd1X&i=160824&vo=3 Using the tools you can zoom in on parts of the map. Check out some of the details in the text on the left side. Some technical history there.

whitebelt		01-Jun-2009 15:00
Thanks, Don. Being from Miami I never entertained the thought of buying a condo. :-) I hate the west coast of Florida. Definitely an east coaster. I understand Port St. Lucie got hit by some hurricanes the last few years, and there was some flooding. Do you know if flooding is a big problem there? Ideally I would like an old Florida type house near a commercial area where there are coffee shops and shopping, like some of those gentrified restored areas. Out in the burbs can get kind of depressing. Any suggestions as to where such places may be up there? Anyplace from Jupiter on up to Flagler County would be considered.

Arizona Al		01-Jun-2009 14:18
Martha: What years did you live in Cutler Ridge? I lived there from 1955-1964 at 9435 Nassau Drive. Sounds like we may have been "neighbors" Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive andwell in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		01-Jun-2009 14:11
Welcome Martha, we're glad to have you on here and thanks for posting some of your memories. Leighton, good luck on your move today. Yeah, packing up 20 years worth of stuff can't be fun and I dread a future move myself with a ton of stuff. Have a safe journey back to east Tennessee and good luck on your upcoming job searching. Charles, congrats on the re-marriage plans. At least you're marrying someone you know, haha. Whitebelt, I like the Treasure Coast area and I'm sure there are plenty of deals up there. It, and areas on the Gulf Coast, are frequently mentioned as having the highest foreclosure rates in the country so you should have a wide variety of homes to choose from at bargain basement prices. I don't know if you're considering a condo but watch out for those with high percentages of unoccupied units, foreclosed units or numerous units not paying the taxes, maintenance, and insurance. Find some locals to talk to about undesirable areas, crime rates, etc. to ensure that you buy into a decent area of town. Good luck on your upcoming search. New photos added recently: Jona Mulvey contributed several old photos of family members and herself (individuals gallery). I added 48 images of the Miami area, including downtown and the Brickell area, from a recent boat cruise on the bay (2000 and later Miami area gallery). Don

whitebelt		01-Jun-2009 13:08
I left Florida almost 13 years ago. Will be heading to the Treasure Coast for a vacation in a couple of days with an eye out for buying a retirement home. There are some real deals listed for Port St. Lucie and the Vero area. Has been a while since I have been through those areas. Don't need a job, just a nice safe and quiet place at the least cost for my remaining years. Port St. Lucie does have some very attractive places for cheap. Anyone know how things are there now? Any areas to avoid? Reckon I will drive down to Miami to reinforce the reasons I left and show the woman where i grew up. Also to get her a good Cuban sandwich.

Martha Hawley-Thomas		01-Jun-2009 12:05
What a fun site to read...memory lane. I was living in Cutlet Ridge and on Saturdays we would go to Dadeland Mall and the horse/dragon some called it was the center stage for the mall. Sundays we went to church then on to Flynns Dixie Ribs and lets not forget the Dixie Drive Inn and the parks all along US 1 from University of Miami down to Perrine. I had many birthday parties at those parks grilled hot dogs and running around the water. Clean and free fun!! Remember the rock pits we all had to make signs about to "Don't swim in the rock pits" Does anyone remember SNOWDENS the swimming place and the guys did chicken fights on the silver pipeline? That was a deep place to dive from the bank and climb out on the man made steps carved into the coral rock. All the canals were crystal clear but not now....so sad!! I remember when Cutler Ridge was really the end of Miami...below Cutler Ridge you could go buy potatoes and cabbage and produce off the trains then you headed south towards the Keys...I remember seeing the black cadillacs at the hotels on our way down...won't say who that was but think!!!

Roberta Perry Hughes		01-Jun-2009 07:47
Charles...and Leslie...What a most wonderful bit of news to read, on this site...!! I wish the two of you much happiness, both "day and Knight," as it were, & I can only imagine the joy you are bringing to your children, with this decision to re-wed...!! Just those few sentences that you wrote, have touched me more than any so-called "love story," born of fiction...!! I celebrate the two of you...!! All my best, Roberta

Charles Knight		01-Jun-2009 04:29
Well folks...After three years as a bachelor, I'm taking the plunge again. I'm re- marrying my ex wife Leslie, we have never stopped being the best of friends and recently realized that we are really do love and respect each other tremendously. She went to Miami with me recently, and finds our city and it's history fascinating, even though she doesn't want to live there, who would at this time? Rush hour seem's as though it start's at nine A.M. and ends at nineA.M!

Leighton		29-May-2009 14:25
Well, I load up Monday, and drive to East TN - for now. Job hunting in Asheville, NC, as well. It takes a while to pack up twenty years.

Jo-Anne K		28-May-2009 22:36
Damn......I always forget to put my name in first! And I didn't check my spelling.

Guest		28-May-2009 22:35
Leighton....where did you end up settling? Hi Don and Gang!

Leighton		25-May-2009 15:54
I am aware of the details, of course, regarding "Scarface" De Palma couldn't place the disclaimer till the film was completed, but he did state that he WOULD do it, while filming was still going on, and prior to the production company being forced out. The "city fathers" included people from the Cuban community, and the city gov't had the final say on permits, etc. Beyond establishing shots, and some scenes in South Beach, I am not certain what else was lensed before the crew had to leave. In addition, South Florida had suffered some pretty bad press after the riots (including a Time magazine cover proclaiming "Paradise Lost?"), and I imagine it was more than just the Cuban community that reacted to coverage of the film.

Guest		25-May-2009 13:01
Actually, it was the Cuban-American community that chased Scarface out after just a scene or two was filmed at the Fontainebleau Hilton. They were concernec about the perception of Cuban-Americans by the rest of the country. Brian DePalma responded by putting in a disclaimer, but it was not enough. Miami City Commission was responsive to the Cuban outcry and withdrew permission to film under I-395, so the tent city scene had to be filmed in LA, and other exteriors, as well. Always look for the red-painted curbs, which do not exist in South Florida.

charlis		23-May-2009 16:35
The original Lums, on 41st St. was, at best, 20 feet wide... the bar, a seating and walking area, and then tables along the wall. 20 to 30 feet from the entrance, the "path" narrowed for the restrooms, the opened up again for more tables, the the exit to the parking lot. The 2nd location, across from the Roney Plaza, was twice as big, and a popular "skipping school" place for lunch. The 3rd Lums, that I went to, was found in the Tampa area. It was 4 times bigger than the original and our favorite place to eat after we moved up here in the early 70's. To this day I steam my hotdogs in beer!

charlis		23-May-2009 16:22
jeff... thanks for the name... Perlman. The one I knew was a great guy. Became a good friend of my great uncle.

Jeff		23-May-2009 05:13
Charlis is referring to one of the Perlman brothers, who developed Lums into a chain after purchasing the original restaurant in the 1950's... they later sold the chain to Gov. John Y. Brown of Kentucky (who owned KFC at the time)... then they proceeded to buy themselves Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas. Not a bad turnaround from a "hot dogs steamed in beer" operation...

charlis		22-May-2009 22:20
Miami Vice... a lot of scenes were filmed at the home of the owner of Lums on Normandy Isle. My great Uncle lived across the street... uncle lived on the golf course side... 150 yard marker of the first hole of Normandy Shores Golf Course. Lums owner bought up a few properties, expanded the house, and added other things to the property. Imagine my surprise to see, when watching "Miami Vice", my uncle's house, rooms in the Lums owner's house that I had been in, etc.

Miami River Rat		22-May-2009 13:46
Don: Thanks for the link to the Olympia Theater and the Elvis shows. I was there, at the Saturday afternoon performance in 1956. 13 years old at the time and thrilled with it all. Sat in the fourth row, due to some creative line busting and getting to the front by jumping from one row to the next on the backs of the seats. The writers were right about one thing: The screaming! Elvis would get about two words out and the girls would all scream. When that scream died down, another two words could be heard and then another scream. I've seen a lot of shows since then, and nothing compares with the show Elvis put on at the Olympia! I'm back from my trip to Miami. Complete report on "the state of the State of South Florida" will be posted ASAP.

Don Boyd		22-May-2009 04:47
Roberta, thank you for the update on your recuperation. Keep getting better! Allen Carr sent me an e-mail with a link to a very interesting website about the Olympia Theatre downtown and the Elvis Presley appearances there for two days/nights in 1956, along with numerous photos of the shows and reviews by local newspaper reporters. The link is:http://www.scottymoore.net/olympia.html - check it out! Don

Leighton		22-May-2009 04:20
One of my posts was lost today - regarding that "Nudes" film shot at Coral Castle in 60/61. Check out the listing on IMDb.com. Interesting story behind the filmmaker - sounds like a good script on its own. Trashy, but fun.

Parks		22-May-2009 02:55
Hi Leighton, You're right about the date of Miami Blues release. I gave Jonathan Demme and his partner in the movie, Edward Saxon a tour of the Miami River while they were filming the movie. My boat was built in 1988 so the movie had to be made after that. During the boat ride I was saying how much I enjoyed the book and was looking forward to seeing the movie. I mentioned that I really enjoyed the scene in the book where the bad guy broke the Hare Krishna's finger. At that point Saxon grinned and took off his cap. His head was shaved. He played the Krishna!

Charles Knight		22-May-2009 01:36
Sorry about the end of that last one...

Charles Knight		22-May-2009 01:34
I owned a recording/rehearsal studio in the eighties and had a friend named Dannie that worked with Jan Hammer on the Miami Vice theme, after that he wrote and recorded most of the "fill" music for the series. Later on he co-promoted some jazz concerts with me at the Marine Stadium, the most successful having been Gato Barbieri, we packed the stadium that night! I still have the photos of that night...Those are some great memories. I have pictures from the rear of the floating stage looking up into the audience that are fantastic...I may post them on one of my sites, if Ido I'll letyou know if Ido.

Leighton		21-May-2009 06:31
"Miami Blues" was shot in 1990.

Leighton		21-May-2009 06:30
"Scarface" was pretty much chased out of Miami - only filmed a few scenes. "City fathers" were worried it would further tarnish the image of Miami in the early 80s. I came THIS close to working on "Miami Vice" the first season (original title was "Gold Coast")...I was hired as Don Johnson's assistant, but the day I arrived, the studio cut the budget, and axed my job. Did manage to make it on the set of "The Mean Season", though.

Parks		21-May-2009 04:40
Hi Guys, Roberta brought up the subject of Miami movies so now I have to tell you of my Miami Movie Night. My friend Bill had the idea that a group of our friends would get together every few weeks to watch a Florida film. It was my turn to host the group last Friday. I chose to show "Miami Blues" as the feature. It had the most connections to Miami of any film I could think of. It was written by Charles Williford, a Miami resident. It took place in Miami. It was actually filmed in Miami (1980). It was produced by Jonathan Demme who went to Southwest High. The short feature was selected clips from "Nude on the Moon" by Doris Wishman, also filmed in Miami (1960). The Coral Castle played the Moon which was inhabited by buxum young women who couldn't afford tops. I found posters for both films on the internet and was able to print out small versions to post by the front door. We served Good n Plenty, Rasinettes, and other movie candy. I also made real old fashion movie popcorn. The trick is to use coconut oil to get that old fashioned movie flavor.

Ray		21-May-2009 02:21
The building just south of the Cardozo, can't think of the name, was used in the the Robin Williams version of the Bird Cage. I was working at The Box, right around the corner, when it was filmed there. I'm sure just the exteriors. It might be fun to come up with a section of sites used for Miami movies. One story I heard was a hotel a few blocks south of these was the site of the shower scene in Scar Face. Ray

charlis		20-May-2009 22:01
"Hole in the Head"... filmed at the old Cardozo Hotel at 1300 Ocean Dr. The hotel was restored int the 1980's...

charlis		20-May-2009 21:56
"High Hopes"... I have got to go out and get the DVD... my favorite Sinatra movie. All his movies were great, but as you all know, I lost a lot of respect for him after two incidents when he was filming movies on Miami Beach... the one involving Evie when he refused her entrance to her apartment, without notice of the filming in the alley where the entrance to her apartment was on South Beach when we were trying to get to work at the teen club on Lincoln Road.

charlis		20-May-2009 21:49
gang... finally getting some rain in FL... saw an interesting "weather pic" on a local station in Tampa... seems there was a water spout over North Bay Village today... did not make landfall, but it was HUGE! I remember my first experience with water spouts. Being from OH, I knew about tornadoes. I was in class at Nautilus... '62 or '63, and saw something in the field twirling around. I yelled "tornado, head for cover!" (We had previously been through "duck and cover" procedures because of the Cuban Missle Crisis.) Everyone laughed at me... "It's just a water spout." Got home and watched the news... spout had been born in the bay, hit the field, and jumped to the ocean causing no damage. Nowadays, from my view on the 24th floor in downtown Tampa, I see water spouts all the time... never have the camera ready! First week of May went to Boca for a HazMat conference... took 27 and 98 down (from Tampa) and Lake Placid water was at least 50 feet from the shore! Came back on 441... homes on the by-pass canel... boats were on trailers, campground docks were high and dry!

Jeff		20-May-2009 19:32
Roberta... Thanks for the kind wishes. "A Hole in the Head" used the actual exterior of an Ocean Drive hotel... I believe it was at 14th and Ocean... but they put up a neon sign with a fictitious hotel name for the movie. There was a famous dance teacher on Miami Beach named Bernie Sager who introduced a lot of the 50's dances from Cuba to the US. He once told me he had a bit part in the movie - filmed outside of Hoffman's Cafeteria on Collins Avenue and Espanola Way - but it was cut from the film...

Leighton		20-May-2009 12:55
"A Hole in the Head" - loved that film. Some great late-50s Miami lensing (mixed with the studio sets, of course). One of the best movie sources online is IMDb.com (Internet Movie Database) - tons of stuff on just about everything ever put to film or video. This film doesn't have a huge listing, but there are some interesting factoids in the comments section.

Roberta Perry Hughes		20-May-2009 08:09
Don...Still hobbling, due to my bum right "toothpick toe!" It's just hanging on, & still hurting, to keep me "humble," I guess! Could be a lot worse! (Eating Palmalito guava jelly is comforting, at those times. Ordered it from The Jelly Basket, online). Hope you & yours are well, & feeling good. I ordered "A Hole in the Head," on DVD, with Frank Sinatra & Eddie Hodges. Lordy! I was 12 years old, when that film was playing at Tropicaire Drive-In...!! Hubby & I plan to watch it, right after he feeds the horses, & we have breakfast, this morning. I can hardly wait...! I've got "High Hopes" already...! Speaking of "High Hopes"...!! What great news, regarding the wonderful landmarks from our salad days, that had gone to wrack & near ruin...!! Former residents, who can afford to visit Our Town, as a tourist, can surely afford a day at the Venetian Pool...!?? I would think it would top the list, of places to go, see, & do...! Good Lord! One spends a bank roll, visiting Orlando, & all of the tourist attractions in that area, you know? And there are no personal "grew up there" memories, for most tourists. When in Miami, patronize her restored places of interest, as a pleasant part of your trip down Memory Lane. Share those places, & the stories of your youth, with your grandchildren, & even your grown children, if they were never a part of growing up in Miami. Do a video diary, for posterity, & to add a richness & color, to your family history!! Carpe diem! Or however you spell it! Seize the day...! When will you ever pass that way again...!!?? Type in "vintage Florida"; click on where it says you can find items from that era at auction on eBay. You'll find a treasure trove, of vintage postcards, Wonderful silk, or rayon, pre-Disney Florida souvenir scarves, & pristine tagged Florida souvenir handkerchiefs, showing the State, & all of the attractions, or just of lovely hibiscus blooms, or just big pink flamingos! Got a postcard, recently, featuring "Buttons," one of the 2 performing porpoises at the Theater of the Sea, now gone. We went there, as a family, when I was about 7 or 8 years old. I missed out on a tourist's souvenir felt banner, of that place, a while back. Keep hoping to run across another one. I won a mint condition, sold only at Burdine's in 1957, souvenir of Dade County plate, in blue on white, with the court house in the center. It is my pride & joy. Jeff...hope all will go well, with the tests you are having done. Such great news, regarding Hialeah Race Track!! I hope it all will come to pass, without a hitch! And that it will feature the flamingo fly over, etc. I treasure all of my vintage fold-out postcards, of the place, in its hey-day...! It shows the flamingos in flight. Wishing you, one & all, a great day, with blue skies, and balmy breezes, & nothing but pleasant events...!!

charlis		19-May-2009 22:50
Don... good news about Hialeah... but will they still have the "Flamingo Fly Over"? I loved that event!

Jeff		19-May-2009 05:01
For $10.50 I'll sit in my tub! Sorry... I couldn't resist the silly comment, gang!

Leighton		19-May-2009 04:34
I grew up going to Venetian Pool - love it. But $10.50? Granted, it won't buy more than an entree in a chain restaurant. But, still. However, whatever keeps it going, is good. Plus, the price difference for non-residents vs. residents keeps it neighborhood-friendly I suppose.

Don Boyd		18-May-2009 15:22
Roberta, how's the recuperation coming along? Jeff, don't study too hard for your upcoming stress test. Here are some links to Miami Herald articles that might be of interest to you folks: The Venetian Pool has reopened after a six month restoration project. Admission costs are $10.50 for non-resident adults, $6 for non-resident children. Gables residents pay $4.75 for adults, $3.75 for kids. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1052232.html - Stewart Alan Greenstein, the owner of Shorty's barbecue restaurants since 1980, passed away at the age of 68. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/obituaries/story/1052234.html Hialeah Park finally came out just fine in this year's state legislative process thanks to the Dade delegation getting behind the issue and really working for it. If the Seminole Indians approve the gambling bill that was passed, and the Legislature ratifies it in a special session in October, Hialeah will be able to race quarter horses and thoroughbreds, open a card room, host off-track betting and after two years race 20 to 30 horse events a year and install Las Vegas style slot machines which is the most lucrative game in the gambling industry. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/legislature/story/1052237.html Don

charlis		14-May-2009 23:19
leighton... just went to the roney site... disgusting. they say is was demolished in the late 60's... I was still living there and often went to the library and the Bass Museum... still remeber the pink building. No pics of all the famous things that happened there. Miami Beach was doomed the minute that voters turned down the idea of allowing gambling at the big hotels... that is why a few were built. That was in the late 60's.

charlis		14-May-2009 23:01
leighton... I'll have to go to the site... wonder if there are any pics of a special event involving WQAM, the Beatles, and my friend Evie...

charlis		14-May-2009 22:58
Jeff... motel row... when I was there a few years ago my route, on purpose, took me through the area and I could not believe the changes. The whole trip down AIA, Collins, etc., was a big disappointment. From what I can see, on Google Earth, and from when I was down there a few years ago, the ocean front condos next to the Bleau are no longer ocean view... and from what Evie told me, the units are not selling or renting!

Leighton		14-May-2009 17:03
Roney has a web site with some historical shots/history. (roneypalacecondo.com) Original was quite significant, architecturally, but I never saw when living there in the 60s/70s. Sorry to hear about Sunny Isles - it had quite a bit of significant architecture, as I've chatted about recently.

Jeff		14-May-2009 02:18
Charlis... the Roney that stands on that site replaced the old, pink building around 1969-70. It's one of the first wave of "big box" apartment buildings... It's architecturally void and just one of the dozens of monstrosities that block the ocean view from South Beach to Lauderdale by the Sea... The Golden Age of the oceanside communities is over... Now, the "air space" is worth more than the ground space [in theory],... so they build up, up and up. If you ever get down this way and get over to Sunny Isles Beach (the Motel Row area), you won't recognize ANYTHING for the concrete canyon that you'll see there... Thanks for the good wishes...

charlis		13-May-2009 22:10
Jeff... hang in there. The Roney was a great place... being pink made it really stand out. When I was down there a few years ago I didn't get that far south so I have no idea what it looks like now, although I do know that a lot of changes were done. The person's mother exhibited her art at the Roney before the Bass Museum was created.

charlis		13-May-2009 22:06
Roberta... it really was depressing to see how "ungreen" the state is. Many cities have "watering bans" or restrictions. We did get some rain in some parts of the state yesterday, and some today. I still haven't seen any rain where I live though. The palm tree farm was really a shock to see.

Jeff		13-May-2009 20:07
Charlis... I vaguely remember the old Roney holding art shows in the 60's... Roberta... I'm as well as can be expected. After a slew of tests - all negative - I still have occasional dizzy spells. I went to a cardiologist today, and have to go back in two weeks for a stress test... here's hoping that turns out well. I'll probably also see a neurologist for some follow-up consultation. It's just one day at a time - thanking God for the small blessings, enjoying the company of my few (but close) friends and still chugging away with my typographic (font) design... Thanks for asking!

Roberta Perry Hughes		13-May-2009 15:36
WOW! Thanks, y'all, for the response to my request, re: Robert Is Here! Haven't called it up yet, but will, & do as you suggested, in writing down what I want, then ordering via phone. I can hardly wait...!! Miami River Rat...I wish you did live closer...! Have yet to connect with Michael Tripp, of Wrens, but Lewis & I hope to do so, in the near future. Charlis...Hi, dear friend. So sorry you didn't get to visit with Evie. Do give her my best wishes. So sad, to read about the drought, & its effects on our former "stomping grounds." I remember our vacations, from Miami to Georgia, when I was a child, & driving around Lake Okechobee, & how lovely it was, & how very very big! Sometimes, we'd stop, & have a picnic lunch nearby, & just enjoy the view, before resuming the journey north. So heartbreaking, to contemplate the state of that palm tree farm, too, or to even visualize Florida no longer being green. I wish it were possible, for areas to share the rainfall. One day last week, we got 10", according to our rain gauge. Our yard was literally standing in water. Don...How be ya...?? Jeff...Hope all is well with you, these days...! Everyone...!! Big hugs & Hello, to one & all...!!

Guest		12-May-2009 23:11
from charli... the drought in Fl, for all of you no longer down here... my trip to Boca... the situation is really bad. I have seen pics of the Miami River... down so low that boats have little water. People at the conference, traveling north to the conference, showed pics... there is no such thing as "greenery" along the roads. All the canals are dry... boat docks are far from the water. Lake O... I could see "islands" and no boats since there was no water in the "by-pass" on 441. Florida is no longer green. The one "palm tree farm" on 441... trees are dead or dying. Memories of old south florida? Remember them! Keep them alive!

Guest		12-May-2009 23:01
jeff... it's Charli... have not been here in a while, but I was just down in Boca (did not get to see Evie because of the schedule... HazMat conference)...and one of the elevators had a pic of the Roney from back in the 50's. A person in the elevator was looking at the poster and said it looked familiar. Her mother was a "known artist" at the time and had many paintings "shown" at the Roney.

Guest		12-May-2009 22:53
gil... we have all become friends here and post personal comments based on our experiences... if you do not like it... go away.

whitebelt		12-May-2009 22:47
River rat. You DO have or will get a Florida fishing license, right? :-) Amazing how expensive those things got over the years.

Miami River Rat		12-May-2009 21:10
Roberta: robertishere.com is their website. Now, Several months ago when I tried to order on line I found the experience very frustrating. I finally called them and was told ordering over the web was a "work in progress". What I'd suggest is going to the website, looking at the sales lists and figuring out what you want. Then call them (800 number is posted on website) and order over the phone. Too bad you're in Wadley, Ga. If you were in Wadley, Al., (about 30 miles from me) I'd deliver to your door! I'm headin' South in the early morning. I'll see a grand nephew graduate from Columbus HS, do a little fishin', a little foolin' around, and for sure I'm going to stop at Robert Is Here and stock up for the year. Y'all hang in there, when I return I'm certain to be full of tales about my most recent trip to our quaint little ol' home town. Probably be back around the middle of next week.

Sofia		12-May-2009 17:15
Roberta -- the name of the place is "Robert is Here." Just google the name and you'll immediately see their web site. I believe it was Parks who wrote about it a couple of months ago, so I took a field trip with my husband and we were very impressed with their produce, jellies, etc. I'm certain they can ship almost anything you want to Georgia. Thanks Parks!

Roberta Perry Hughes		12-May-2009 08:14
Greetings, everyone...! That place...in Homestead, is it?...where one of our regular Posters goes, to stock up on Guava jelly, & such...do they have a web site, perhaps, or do mail orders...? I would LOVE to be able to order "Real" Guava jelly, maybe, by that Palmelito brand?...& the Guava paste, that came in a long box. If anyone knows of such a web site, where any of these wonderful "taste of Miami"-type products are offered, how about posting the particulars here, for those of us who live far away, & who long for those items we love & miss...? Thanks, in advance, & keeping my fingers crossed, too...!! Roberta, craving some Guava jelly, on a slice of hot-buttered toast, & far from "home," in the Peach State.

Jeff		11-May-2009 20:26
Leighton: I can't say for certain, but I think Toby's closed in the early-to-mid-70's. Alb: From what I recall reading, the original Roney was built around 1925-1926, and the penthouse was often occupied by John Collins, one of the early developers of Miami Beach (and whom Collins Avenue was named for). It had a tropical gaden area where visitors would enjoy outdoor performances by the bands who performed at the hotel. Desi Arnaz got one of his first musical jobs in a band at the Roney! Next to the Roney were the Roman Pools - a large swimming area with a windmill/water pump. In the 1950's, another nearby spot to visit was Pickin' Chicken - one of three owned by Joe Hart, who would eventually build the Castaways complex...

Alb		11-May-2009 17:58
I found this site by accident while searching for info on the Roney Plaza hotel. This is my second visit to this site and reading the posts brings back many fond childhood memories. I've lived here since 52' and attended Riverside Elementary, Ada Merritt Jr. High, and so on. I used to walk to the Orange Bowl for games.

Charles Knight		11-May-2009 06:01
Wow! Leighton...I had completely forgotten Toby's! Thanks for the memory! I have no idea whatsoever as to it's demise, alas...There are so many things I can't remember! Yumbrella!

Leighton		10-May-2009 17:09
Does anybody know when the Toby's Cafeteria on 8th Street closed? I know I went there as a kid (pink Deco building), but switched to Forum at Dadeland by 1969. I can find photos of only the Miami Beach location.

Arizona Al		10-May-2009 06:32
Gilbert: Perhaps you could share with the "regulars" on this site some of your memories and recollections of the Miami that you experienced and recall from your younger days. I am certain that all concerned would welcome your contributions. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Miami, Fla. 1945-1969. Still alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Jeff		10-May-2009 05:45
Rememeber the last poster who tried to rile up the regulars? The best revenge is to talk AROUND them! DON'T respond - or even acknowledge their inflammatory comments, for this is what they want. As others have so aptly stated in here... they're free to leave the same way they came in!

Leighton		09-May-2009 23:16
Love the Internet, because of its endless source of information, but equally despise it because it allows people to behave in a manner that they would never display in public. GILBERT, as I have said, I started visiting here over two years ago, and have posted many specific items, actually trying to avoid personal blabbing. For you to target me is quite humorous, actually. Anyway - yep, we talk personally in here sporadically. (I rarely do.) How kind of you to be so "gracious" in one of my weaker moments. And, by the way, the phrase is "could NOT care less." Moving on...

Miami River Rat		09-May-2009 16:07
Charlie Knight! Great bunch of photos. Your #29 in "my photos", from 1928 is correctly identified by Alvin as my great-uncle, my grandpa's brother. The family had the alligator farm on the Miami River and all four sons (my grandpa and his three younger brothers) all wrestled the 'gators from time to time. My grandpa took the show on the road, to New York, New Jersey, Kansas City, and even took the 'gators and several families of indians to Canada for a World's Fair up there. I've got a pile of old magazine and newspaper articles and pictures of the early years of Miami tourist attractions, gators and indians, from back in the 1920's. Also got arrest warrants for one or the other of them for "selling whiskey to indians" and some letters back & forth to a prominent resident of Chokoloskee about 'gator hides. Our Everglades sure has changed over the decades, and none for the better as I see it. Your drought pictures are exactly the same as when I was last out Loop Road, in May of 2006. Sad.

whitebelt		09-May-2009 14:10
Speaking of tearing down buildings. Looking at Google Earth I see Gladeview Elementary was torn down. Some sort of park there now. Get on Google Earth and use the street view to see how much has changed since we were kids.

Charles Knight		09-May-2009 13:27
Hey Rat! Good to see you're still here...I put a lot of new photos up on the Gator Hook site, feel free to check 'em out. Gilbert, scan back and read a treasure chest of memories. I'm still relatively new here and that's what I had to do...It was worth it. Are you still in Eau Gallie? I live in Satellite Beach. Charlie.

Miami River Rat		09-May-2009 13:06
Gilbert, if you want to spread hate and ill will, there are other forums for that. Those who contribute regularly here have come to care for each other. As a result, we do exchange personal information from time to time. You should learn to skip the personal stuff if you don't care to read it. There are still plenty of old Miami items to peruse here.

Gilbert		09-May-2009 12:48
Hey LEIGHTON- People check out this great site, whether they contribute or not, to enjoy memories of where they grew up. There are other forums for personal conversations. For you to say you could care less just tells me how self centered you are.

Leighton		09-May-2009 02:10
Sad to see that the church didn't recognize the significance of the structure. I was really upset when they tore down the Mid-Century Coral Gables Presbyterian Church. I am equally thrilled that my Dad's old Shenandoah Presbyterian Church has continued to be utilized on 8th, in the heart of Little Havana (even if they altered its original classic Federal style into a pseudo Spanish Colonial).

Leighton		09-May-2009 01:56
Hey, GILBERT, I've shared tons of Miami memories the past two years. Have gotten to know these folks. If personal comments offend you, I could not care less. How about scanning posts from the past, before you display the attitude?

Miami River Rat		08-May-2009 18:22
Roberta, I hope your health improves. Sounds like you've had a serious bout with the medicos. And Charles! Did the youngest Knight like her trip to the 'Glades? Hope it works out for you and your ex getting back together. I've known three people that tried that. It worked out great for one of them, the other two, not so much. Maybe it'll work for you and my knowledge will then be 50/50 on that deal. Me, when I split I was so glad to escape from theat deal I've never looked back. Also, hope your sister is recovering from her accident. Leighton: Good luck on the new start.

Miami River Rat		08-May-2009 18:13
Michael C, I think that arcade you mentioned was called the "Seybold Arcade". Lots of cool stores in there. I remember seeing Elvis perform at the Olympic theater, in the summer of 1956. I was 13 at the time, and to say Elvis was impressive would be a major understatement! "Hound Dog" and "Don't Be Cruel" had just been released. WOW! I've seen a lot of rockers since then, over several decades, and still none of them can match the show Elvis pout on in the Olympic theater.

Guest		08-May-2009 15:38
Michael C again, Dad drove a bus for Miami Transit - I got to know most of the drivers and as a result spent a lot of my Saturdays (after the double feature at the Regent Theater) riding around the downtown area for free. Remember the arcade near the Olympia theater, especially the "Nut House" where you could smell the frying peanuts from one end to the other - the little red Spanish peanuts were the best. We always went downtown for the Memorial Day parades, tried to get a place opposite the courthouse because that was where the most of the performances were done. One year the entire sky (or at least to a little kid) was filled with a huge plane with no body - a "flying wing" airccaft. We always felt safe any place we went, even riding my bike around the neighborhood after dark.

Don Boyd		08-May-2009 14:31
The oldest church building in Miami was destroyed early Monday morning despite the efforts of preservationists. The 97-year old building wasn't even on the City of Miami's list of historic places so you can imagine the incompetence in the city government. Ellen Uguccioni, of the city's Historic Preservation Board, stated ''I think the sad thing for me is we didn't know about this building,'' and ``We really need the community to tell us what's out there, what's important to them.'' The full story is at: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/front-page/story/1032425.html It looks like Hialeah Park will be saved under new state legislation that will grant Hialeah the rights to run quarter horse racing and have cards rooms, and after two years of racing they can offer Las Vegas-style slot machines. The full story is at: http://www.miamiherald.com/486/story/1036030.html Don

gilbert		08-May-2009 13:05
finally, someone talking about memories of miami and not about themselves.

Michael		08-May-2009 01:54
Guest Michael C - born in Miami in 1940 and lived there until 1957 when we moved to Eau Gallie for my senior year in HS (culture shock - more people in Jackson HS than the whole town). Early memories are the blackouts during WWII and the warden going around to be sure all curtains were closed. Also going with my dad to have the headlights of our 1939 Olds painted black so they didn't shine on the roads to give planes flying overhead anything to see. Enjoyed the lists of things and places, quite a memory jogger. Lived a rather sheltered life in Allapattah, 1 BR house with no running water until we put it in around 1948. No hot water while we lived in Miami, so whichever of the two kids was best behaved that day got the first bath in the water that was heated on the gas stove.

Leighton		05-May-2009 04:56
The "love-in" sounds fun. I remember the Miami hippies, as a kid. While we were a Presbyterian, Republican family, my mom - the preacher's wife - wore her "go-go" boots and mini-skirt to church, causing must consternation among the elders, I'm sure. And I seem to recall dressing as a "hippie" for Halloween, once. Jo-Anne, my sister lives in Hendersonville, and I spent summers in Black Mountain/Montreat - the place my parents met and married 51 years ago. I love the Asheville area, even after The Unfortunate Incident of 2004. Roberta - glad to see they're still filming in NC. (Film is my background - two film degrees, one from UM.) Here in TX, we've lost a lot to Louisiana, and their tax incentives. CK - big deal, trying it over. Good luck.

Don Boyd		05-May-2009 02:33
For all the old hippies still in the area, the 6th Annual Greynolds Park Love In will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2009. I will attempt to go and get some photos for this site. The below information is from the website promoting the event: The Miami Herald Miller Light Smoke & Spice Majic 102.7 6th Annual Greynolds Park Love-In The Greynolds Park Love-In is a celebration of the 1960s with music, vintage clothing and memorabilia. Once a hangout of the “flower child,” Greynolds Park during the 1960s was the site in Miami for jam sessions, poetry readings and peaceful demonstrations. That spirit is captured in the annual Love-In, when approximately 5,000 groovy guys and gals turn out for the one-day event which features a live concert with a national act from the ‘60s and activities for the entire family. This year, rock music legend Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels headlines in concert with famous hits such as "Devil With A Blue Dress On," "Sock it to Me Baby!" and "Jenny Takes A Ride!" Also performing are Rewind, BrokeDown, Miami Rock Ensemble, and Blackstar. Previous national artists have included The Spencer Davis Group; Joey Molland’s Bad Finger; The Classic Rock All Stars; The Guess Who; Chuck Negron; and Richie Havens. The family will enjoy a host of activities and exhibits which include: 60s Costume Contest 60s-Style Vendors A Fun Kids Zone Food and Drink Vendors Arts and Crafts Vintage Volkswagen Bug exhibits Hula-hoop contest Frisbee throwing contest Tie-dying tee-shirts Hippie photo opportunities Sidewalk chalk drawing for children Greynolds Park Love-In: starts at 11:00am, Sunday, May 17, 2009

Jo-Anne K		04-May-2009 18:24
Leighton...........take the job in WNC, I'm 20 minutes from Asheville.

Charles Knight		04-May-2009 13:23
Parks, Shorty's is just around the corner but I work in Smokey Bones BBQ (7 years now) so...We had Cuban seafood last night. My daughter and my ex are here as well, looks like we may try it again (marraige, that is...)we've always loved each other anyway. Well, we're headed back to Jackson for a visit and then out to the Everglades where I spent a good deal of my youth so that our youngest (Olivia) can say, "Oh gross daddy" LOL!

Arizona Al		04-May-2009 12:54
Roberta: Arizona Al still has fleeting moments of misconduct and shenanigans even at age 63! Glad to hear that you are on the mending road to recovery. Alan L.Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and still a Ridge Rat in mind and spirit in Phoenix, Arizona

Roberta Perry Hughes		04-May-2009 07:47
Largo...Thanks, for your well wishes...! I don't envy you the unpacking & getting settled, but it will soon be done, & I know you will enjoy your new place. Charles...May your sister recover swiftly & completely, with no adverse reactions. She was indeed very lucky, to only get "banged up." Bless her...! Leighton...That's quite an impressive family history, in NC. I'm sure you are beginning to view "starting" over as an adventure, & a beginning for you. The filming of a Horton Foote screen play is winding up, in Durham, NC, called "Main Street." They said it will take about a year, for it to be in theaters. I am looking forward to it, as it stars Colin Firth, an English actor, who is portraying a Texan, named Gus Leroy. All of us Firth Sisters are anxious to hear him speak with a Texas accent. He looks fantastic, in Western wear...! Yummy! K Martin...The Pametto state is very lovely. I only live about 90 miles from a Augusta, & Aiken, SC is just over the Savannah River. I love the town of Summerville, & of course, who doesn't fall in love with Charlston? Goose Creek, has a huge outdoor Flea Market...or is in Monck's Corner...? And Parris Island, well, that's where the United States Marines are...(wolf whistle). Three Marines, in my family. Edisto Beach, & Isle of the Palms, both made me long for the beaches of Florida. I do envy you your upcoming trip, to see Our Town once again, & visit the areas where you grew up, & went to school. Lucky, lucky you...! Have a great time...!! Don, dear friend...My recovery is still ongoing. Diabetics are slow healers. It is mind-boggling, how a toothpick torpedo, lurking in a carpet, at just the right angle, can wreak havoc with one's foot...no one believed it, when I told them it threw me in the hospital for 3 days...! ("Over a toothpick...???") (sigh). Our Uncle Sam was very good to us, this time around, & I am a sharing person. Thank you, for all you do, on this amazing Site, to treat us to all of the many images, frozen in time, from our youth, & from a happier time. I do so appreciate it, more than you know, more than I can ever express. You're the best, Mr. Boyd...!! Thanks goes out, too, to all of the Posters, for their stories, & their history, of Our Town. I really enjoy the history of the Coast Guard's activities, during the time before WWII, & thereafter, in & around Miami's coast, as described by Parks. I was enchanted, by the tales of the 'Glades, & the folks who lived there, & the bar, in the middle of nowhere, & tales of colorful Seminole Indians, who were legends in their time. All of it so well narrated, it is so like a movie, playing in my head! The stories of the film industry, & Largo's father, & his involvement in that industry, was enthralling, & how she got to meet Troy Donahue...& oh! the photo of them together...! Lucky, lucky girl...! Memories of the car hops on roller skates, at the Paley's Big Wheel, & images of the drive-ins, where we went with our families, or our neighbors, & vivid memories of the mosquito truck, & being a kid again. Reading about the shenanigans of our resident "Ridge Rat," Arizona Al, & laughing, at some of the scrapes he got into, in his youth. Naughty boy! What a colorful American Quilt this thread is...!! To be a part of it is such an honor...! I love you, one & all, & wish you well. Roberta, waxing nostalgic, in the Central Savannah River Area, in the Peach State, just off of U.S. 1, just 3 miles from a little fart-of-a-town called Wadley.

Parks		04-May-2009 02:57
Charles, you're real close to Shorty's Barbeque. Don't miss this chance!

Charles Knight		04-May-2009 02:20
Hi folks...Well, I had to make an emergency trip to Miami and here I sit in the Marriot Courtyard at Dadeland. Yes things change at a rapid pace here, I could barely find my way around today, Oy! (And I'm a Gentile!). I had to find the Ryder trauma center at Jackson Memorial and man oh man what a mess that is ! I remember when Jax was two buildings! It's now a dozen or more over half adozen city blocks! The pediatrics building is about the same size as our hospital where I now live! And even though our fair city continues to expand at an unbelievable rate...I did drive through the Old Gables and the Grove, you will be glad to know that they're both still gorgeous! I really love this place even though the traffic is horrible! Oh...My sister wrecked her motorcycle and she's messedup but she'll be OK, maybe now she'll start wearing a helmet!

Leighton		04-May-2009 00:24
Largo - Yes, my late grandparents spent most of their lives in Elizabethton, and I know East TN quite well. My parents have lived in JC for 25 years (my father was born there). It will be interesting. However, I'm hoping an opportunity in Western NC might work out. I have till the end of the month. Did you ever hear of Ripshin Lake? My grandfather was one of the businessmen who developed the area, and we used to have a cabin there. It killed me when we had to sell it in 91. Same grandfather was manager/director of Bemberg in its heyday, and I spend many fun summers at the Franklin Club. Was sad to hear Jonesborough's Dogwood Lane Cafe (?) closed. We still hit the Main Street Grill. K Martin - I envy you. Regardless of what has happened to Miami, I hope to see it again, myself, within the next few years. (25 years for me.)

Don Boyd		03-May-2009 21:41
K Martin, you're in for a real treat if you haven't seen this place in 42 years. Just the changes in the past five years are mind-boggling. I hope you have a good time down here and thanks for your comments. Largo, welcome back after your move and hope you get fully settled in soon. Lyn B, thanks for your comments and I'm glad you visit the site. Roberta, how's your recuperation coming? Today's Miami Herald has a disturbing story about the sneaky attempted demolition of what is believed to be Miami's oldest standing church building Saturday evening in Coconut Grove. The St. Stephen's Episcopal congregation wants to build new classrooms despite the historical significance of the 1912 chapel style building that was used as their main church until the 1950's. Seehttp://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/v-fullstory/story/1029951.html for the full article and the uproar by preservationists. Don

K Martin		03-May-2009 20:24
Am finally making it back to Miami for 2 days after nearly 42 yrs and sort of cringe at the changes I'll be seeing. My memories date back to the 60's when life was grand as a teen. Arriving Mon 5/4/09 , I will be searching for that lone royal Castle I was reading about in N Miami before heading to near U of M and the Gables/Coconut Grove area I grew up in. Then back up to the Lauderdale are near Oakland Park where i also lived in 68-69 before leaving the state for S.C. Love this website and congrats to D Boyd for his hard work compiling all we see.

Lyn B.		03-May-2009 19:16
Thank you so much for keeping the "real" Miami alive! As an almost 60 year native, I visit your site frequently to remember why I stay!

LARGO		03-May-2009 18:01
ROBERTA !...SORRY ABOUT YOUR TOOTHPICK COLLISION..BUT VERY HAPPY TO KNOW YOU ARE BACK AND ON THE MEND...I GUESS I NEED TO DO SOME CATCHIN' UP.....IT'S ODD THAT WHEN YOU GET A BIT OLDER..THE LITTLEST "like toothpicks"...CAN BRING YOU DOWN. AND "LEIGHTON"...I SEE THAT "YOU ARE" A GRAPHIC ARTIST...CHECK OUT ETSU's GRAPHICS ART DEPT...AND OF COURSE ALL THE ARCHITECTS IN TOWN... LARGO

LARGO		03-May-2009 17:44
LEIGHTON...SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR BUSINESS...I HAVE BEEN OFF SITE THE LAST 6 WEEKS OR SO MOVING...I FOUND A LOVELY LITTLE FIXER UPPER IN, ST. AUGUSTINE SHORES...AND AT 63 ..I FIND MY SELF PRIORITIZING MY TIME ONLINE..'CAUS THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO TO SETTLE IN. I HAVE LIVED IN JOHNSON CITY, KINGSPORT, ELIZABETHTON...AND LASTLY JONESBOROUGH, TN..(THE OLDEST TOWN IN TN) ...ALL THOSE TOWNS..EXCEPT BRISTOL (known as the Tricities..of which Jonesborough & Elizabethton are NOT) FOR THE 25 YEARS OR SO PRIOR TO MOVING TO ST., AUGUSTINE, FL. IN '04....SO NOW INSTEAD OF SHOVELING SNOW...I PICKUP "LOTS" OF SPANISH MOSS....ALTHOUGH MY PARENTS LIVED IN JOHNSON CITY (FROM MIAMI) THE PAST 25 YRS...THEY HAVE PASSED ON ...I STILL HAVE FRIENDS & FAMILY IN THE AREA. I DID NOT SCROLL BACK FAR ENOUGH TO KNOW WHAT BUSINESS YOU WERE IN...BUT HOPEFULLY YOU WILL FIND GREAT OPPORTUNITY IN JC..A LOVELY, FRIENDLY LITTLE COLLEGE TOWN...IF YOU DO NOT MIND THE COLD...KEEP US POSTED & GOOD LUCK, SHEILA A. LARGO

Guest		02-May-2009 20:53
guest, re: wayne cochran... sorry I did not get back to you... been busy elsewhere... I knew Wayne back in the late 60's... worked with him at a teen club on MB. He taught me how to do the James Brown "shuffle"... The last I heard was that he was an ordained minister for some religion. While he was "making it to the big time" he was a garbage collector.

Leighton		01-May-2009 17:14
Thanks, Jo-Anne. Actually, it IS Johnson City where I'll be, Guest. (I think CK knew that already.) I just lost a week of preparing, working on an unrelated side job (which is good), and probably won't move till month's end. Did anyone know Tully Dunlap (Jr) - saw he died recently at 92 (Miami Herald obit). He went to our church back in the 60s/70s, and my parents have kept up with him since. He was one fine person.

Jo-Anne K		28-Apr-2009 16:59
Sorry Leighton..........it's me Jo-Anne K

Guest		28-Apr-2009 16:58
Hey Leighton when I do get home I'm only 33 miles from the east TN line making me about 100 miles from west Knoxville (I lived there when I was on a job in Louden, TN). So where in east TN are you? I'm familiar with Johnson City also! I get home from Colorado every four weeks, I'm up for doing lunch if you want to.

Miami Girl		26-Apr-2009 19:58
Leighton: With your wonderful, positive attitude you'll be back on top in no time. East Tennessee is truly a beautiful place - those mountains will heal you. Best wishes for your future.

Leighton		26-Apr-2009 18:10
Wow, family and a few friends, have really stepped up this week. Maybe I've been a cynical jerk for the past few years, for no reason. Here's to a new life!!

Don Boyd		26-Apr-2009 14:32
Good luck on your move, Leighton. Sorry to hear the bad news but this is a new opportunity for you and Tennessee is loved by many who live there. New photos added: Jon Ullman contributed 3 recent images of a Winn-Dixie on Coral Way being renovated and the old Kwik Chek logo and sign are visible on the store front while the new facade was being built (grocery stores gallery). Don

Leighton		26-Apr-2009 07:15
Thanks for your thoughts. My family has been great. I'm going to enjoy those East TN mountains. I'm still freaking out about being 47, and starting over. Good grief. So what, right? As my mom's motto always was, "Deal with it!!!!!" Now if only I could sleep - that's what all those great TCM movies are for.

Roberta Perry Hughes		26-Apr-2009 03:46
Leighton...I am so sorry to learn about your business, making you have to move back home. However, I am thankful, for you, that you have a home to return to, & loving parents as well. Do stay in touch with us...!! All my best, Roberta

Charles Knight		25-Apr-2009 19:49
Leighton, I hope to retire to Johnson City in four years, but who knows? I may have to sell the land I've been buying...My business is running at about 60% right now and I'm frightened too. Such is life! I posted a response in the "Pups"section for you to let you know that I wish you well my friend, stay in touch if possible, Charles.

Fran		24-Apr-2009 10:55
Good for you,no need for the blame game. It is what it is, a new beginning. Loss seems to bring us to a place where we can continue self pity or start a new journey. Our materials things do not validate who we are. Peace be with you.

Leighton		24-Apr-2009 09:07
Fran, thanks for your thoughts. I ran a two-person graphic design company...most of our clients either went bankrupt, or cut their marketing budget. It's a hit or miss thing, this recession. I visit a lot of blogs, and I'm amazed at how many people are quick to assess blame for misfortune. We worked ten years to establish ourselves, and it only took a few months to demolish it all. But, life goes on...

Fran		24-Apr-2009 08:33
Leighton Sometimes it's good to go home again. A new start may be what you need? True I have lived in Texas for almost 13 years. Sad but I too have not grown roots here. Nice place to visit, not wanting to live the rest of my life here either . Eastsider may be able to help you. He lives in the great state of TN. Go to Robbin's gallery and you should be able to contact him. If not e-mail Don Boyd and he will be able to help you. Sorry to hear about you area of Texas. Here in College Station we have not been affected by the recession for the most part. I'm sure that if it continues we'll be next in line. Good luck!

Leighton		24-Apr-2009 08:00
Well, my friends, the recession has finally slaughtered my business, and I'm soon off to TN to live with family. One doesn't expect to have to start over in their late 40s, but such is life in these times. Are there any ex-Miamians in East Tennessee? I can't say that I regret leaving Texas, a state that hasn't grown on me in 20 years. I'll keep visiting the room, and who knows, maybe I'll eventually meet some of you folks. Wow, I'm going to be a kid again, living with my parents - how weird. But, I have an awesome family, so life is still good.

Leighton		20-Apr-2009 19:04
Lots of great Mid-century/60s architecture is being demolished in Miami, as well as everywhere else across the country. Unfortunately, preservationists have not appreciated it as much as they should have over the years. Here in SA, we've lost so many significant structures. Sunny Isles Lutheran interests me, as do many other buildings still standing in that area. That particular spot was/is a bastion of such architecture, due its period of development.

Roberta Perry Hughes		20-Apr-2009 04:33
Don...I'm doing a lot better, but still not 100%. The older one gets, the harder it is to bounce back, it seems. Thanks for asking about me. Mike Tripp...That sounds like a winner! I should be up-to-snuff, by then, I hope! Charles Knight...Thanks so much, for your well wishes! Jackie & Alan, too, of course! And Charles...I'm just plain ol' Roberta, o.k.? That's what my friends all call me, & I hope I can count you among them. Leighton...Hope you hear from someone, soon, regarding the info you seek about the churches you mentioned. Jeff? Can you help Leighton out, here? I had soooooo wanted to go to Durham, NC, this month, as my favorite heartthrob, Colin Firth, is filming a movie there, titled Main Street, written by the late Horton Foote. It also stars Ellen Burstyn, Orlando Bloom, Amber Tamblyn, Andrew McCarthy, & Patricia Clarkson. Colin's character, Gus Leroy, is from Texas...he's British. Mercy...!

Don Boyd		20-Apr-2009 02:36
Mike, I understand completely and there are times I might envy you but other times I'm content where I am. Roberta, how are you doing now? Don

Mike Tripp		19-Apr-2009 19:43
Don - I moved out of Miami in '70 and haven't lived on a paved road since. Nearest neighbor is over a half mile away. Love it!

Mike Tripp		19-Apr-2009 19:39
Roberta - I am currently visiting my daughter in Bonita Springs FL. I will be here for about 4 more weeks. Let's get together after I return.

Guest		18-Apr-2009 08:27
There's a reason my mother told me that toothpicks are nasty.

Fran		17-Apr-2009 21:07
Charles, One of my all time favorites, Grand Funk RR. Those were the days.:)

Charles Knight		17-Apr-2009 17:40
Mrs. Hughes, my prayers have in them good thoughts and wishes for you.

Charles Knight		17-Apr-2009 17:38
Fran, some other concerts at Pirates World...David Bowie, Grand Funk RR, Hendrix, just to name a few. Let's not forget the free concerts in the park at the beach, and Greynolds park. What a great place we come from! Even in the sixties and seventies we were fortunate enough to have been blessed with foreward thinking officials. So what if they were lining their pockets with graft dollars lol!!

Don Boyd		17-Apr-2009 17:14
Sorry to hear about your misfortune, Roberta! Get well soon. I looked up Wadley and Wrens on a Google map and you sure look like you're out in the sticks! : ) Don

Jackie		17-Apr-2009 14:28
Sorry to hear about your medical problems.. Hope you have a speedy recovery.

Arizona Al		17-Apr-2009 09:01
Roberta: Get Well Soon! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Roberta Perry Hughes		17-Apr-2009 08:05
Michael Tripp... I haven't checked in on here for a while, so when I saw your post, I was amazed! Small world, isn't it? Our Internal Medicine doctor, Chris Sheppard, is in Wrens, & every a.m. appt. with him allows us to have a great meal at Peggy's Restaurant, which used to be a service station, making the trip there worth while. (65 miles, round trip, from beautiful downtown Wadley). I have been under-the-weather, & have not felt like posting. I walked into a toothpick, embedded in the carpet at about a 30 degree angle. It went deeply into the ball of my right foot, & then broke off. It cost me an ER trip, minor surgery to remove it, & hospitalization for 3 days, due to being a diabetic. Crappie! (that's a fish) Do y'all believe my luck...? We were just in Wrens, last Thursday, for a follow-up visit, then on to Peggy's from there. Had I seen your post earlier, I could have called you to meet us for lunch...! Maybe next time? I return next month. I'll call you, & see if we can get together. My husband lived in Miami Beach, when it was called Fulford, so he has memories, too. Meanwhile, I am still puny, & had adverse reactions to new meds I was put on. I'm to the point to where the FDA has me having second thoughts, about new drugs on-the-market. They rattle off the side-effects, on TV, & who in their right mind would feel comfortable in taking them...?? I remember a grove, when I was a child. It could have been Floyd's...? There were young trees in there, & I remember something about people were caught uprooting them...stealing them...& they were caught red-handed. That ended our going in there to swipe an orange, during a Saturday afternoon's bike ride. Leighton... I hope someone will scroll down, & read your post, requesting information regarding the churches that you mentioned: Sunny Isles Lutheran Church, on 178th & Collins, & Shennadoah Presbyterian, on 8th, in Little Havana. I hope someone will give you the information you seek, my friend. Good luck. Roberta, gingerly hobbling around, keenly aware of toothpick daggers that dwell in carpets, in the countryside of Jefferson County, Georgia.

Charles Knight		17-Apr-2009 02:48
Martha Pierson, what a wonderful library, it's one of the things I miss the most about Miami.

Martha Pierson		17-Apr-2009 01:41
Ted, Have you tried the main library on Flagler St? They have a lot of old phone books and other Miami memoriblila. That could give you what you need.

Don Boyd		16-Apr-2009 05:43
It's all a joke. We've been out to lunch a few times and we've talked on the phone numerous times. I like to get him riled up. Don

Charles Knight		16-Apr-2009 05:23
Hey Don...What's the deal between you and Jeff? Just curious.

Don Boyd		15-Apr-2009 19:36
Poor Jeff? Sorry, he deserves no sympathy. Wait until I post more hippie photos from 1972 on the streets of Miami Beach and in Flamingo Park. This posting from Ted Vernon in another gallery bears repeating here: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Ted Vernon info@tedvernon.com 02-Apr-2009 19:06 Desperately looking for someone with knowledge of our property- 471 NE 79 ST., Miami FL 33138. Developers trying to squeeze us out of our property we have owned since 1979. Courts want to take away our easement(ingress/egress to our building) unless we have proof to a "certain road" was in existance in 1935. Aerial photograph or witness would be sufficient. REWARD OFFERED- Property description - old boat building warehouse was called Emancipator Boat Works in 40's, area located in the West end of the famous Biscayne Shopping Plaza. Please any info/ideas will be very helpful. email info@tedvernon.com or call 305-754-2323 Ted ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ And last, but not least, RIP Ms. Marilyn Chambers! http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1891127,00.html Don

Fran		14-Apr-2009 06:59
Don: Gee Don-dude, kinda harsh, poor Jeff. :) However, Peace, Love and Happiness brings fond memories to mind of the Chamber Brothers' concert at Pirates World.

Jeff		14-Apr-2009 03:52
Gee, Don... I'm honored that every time you need a "whipping boy" for one of your captions, I'm the one who's selected... Aren't the rest of you green with envy? Don thinks so highly of me that I'm the FIRST and ONLY choice for getting roasted over the proverbial coals... LOL! Although this time around, Don is closer to the truth than he realizes... for I actually spent a day and night in Flamingo Park with the hippies, yippies and other characters of the day - and what an experience it was for 20-year old me back in '72. To tell the truth... I kind of wish I was back in those day right now... 1972 was probably my best year...for MANY reasons I won't go into here... Peace, love and happiness, Don-dude!

Don Boyd		14-Apr-2009 03:36
New photos added: some summer of 1972 street scene hippie photos featuring Jeff L. and his peeps during one of the national political conventions that was held on Miami Beach (70's gallery, 1972 time frame). Don

Leighton		13-Apr-2009 22:31
My request for info got lost in there somewhere.....

Jeff		13-Apr-2009 17:09
Sure wish I could tell you something about Floyd's... I just happened to know about Uncle Tom's between an old article I'd once read and my friendship with Johnny, Tommy and Chickie Efantis [when I used to visit my photographer buddy (Bob Kelley) in the Gables from time to time]. Bob used to reminisce about the Great Gable Drive-In (also shown on Don's site) that was owned by the same family that later ran Danny's Restaurant in Surfside...

1petros73		13-Apr-2009 04:19
Jeff, I don't doubt you at all. The property search website that I used only says the year the building was made & the legal description. It never occured to me that this restaurant could have been something different in the past. Thanks for the correction. I learned one more bit of history regarding this area of Miami. If you have any other info regarding this area or Floyds Fruit Grove please let me know. Thanks again.

Jeff		13-Apr-2009 01:37
Just happened to be checking in today, and I need to possibly correct 1petros73 about Uncle Tom's Bar-B-Q... Unless there was another restaurant with the same name preceding the current one, it was NOT around in 1926... The original owner originally operated a plumbing supply company in the location that's now Uncle Tom's. Around 1948, he'd tired of the plumbing supply business and decided to start a restaurant... calling it Colonel Jim's Bar-B-Q. He ended up selling it in the early 1950's to Tommy Efantis, who eventually renamed it "Uncle Tom's". How this came about was an entirely different story... Tommy originally sold the "Colonel Jim's restaurants and name to his ex-partner after they had a falling out (they also ran the one on the 79th Street Causeway). He then opened up Tommy's Bar-B-Q on LeJeune Road near the airport. When his ex-partner ran into financial troubles, Tommy agreed to buy back the restaurant (and close the 79th Street operation), but made the name change to avoid any repercussions from the former partner's ownership. A side-note: Colonel Jim's/Uncle Tom's used to be a drive-in until an accident in the late 1950's cost one of the car hops her legs. Tommy then enclosed the restaurant as a sit-down eatery and curtailed any further curb service. Tommy's wife ("Chickie") was herself a former car-hop. His brother Johnny used to run the Daisy Mae Bar-B-Q (shown here on Don's site), but later joined Tommy in running Uncle Tom's.

margaret Migli		13-Apr-2009 00:09
My name is Margaret Migli and my husband and I moved to Hialeah in1954, before aircondtioning was ever heard of. My husband was lucky enough to get work at E.A.L and he worked there for twenty five years. We had a son born there, and he is now a teacher at Palmetto High scool. Our oldest girl, Nancy teaches at Miami Springs high scool, and our other girl teaches at Cushman in Miami Shores. We came to Vero Beach in 1983.

1petros73		12-Apr-2009 18:15
The last post titled "Guest" dated on 12-Apr-2009 18:09 was posted by me: 1petros73. I forgot to log in so it shows as Guest. Sorry.

Guest		12-Apr-2009 18:09
Hello ALL, Thanks for responding Arizona Al. Also, THANKS to Mike Tripp (Gables class of '55). According to the info on your post, you lived at 3901 sw 4 st. That house was made in '39 and the other houses on that street were made from 1949 to after 1950. I live off of 40th ave & sw 6 st & in my opinion this area is one of the few good areas left in Miami. I assume that the area accross the street from your house must have been an empty lot which boardered Floyds Fruit Grove. The houses directly accross the street from you were built in the late '70's but the houses behind those were built in the '50's on what was the land belonging to the fruit grove. I guess c.v. fLOYD started selling off his land for development. I can't imagine the amount of empty lots in this area at that time! The 1st house to be built in our area is a 2 story house at 3901 sw 7 st & was built in 1910. Apparently there was not a good place to eat around here until "Original Uncle Toms Barbecue" opened in 1926. Too bad the only thing about this place that is original today is the name. If you happen to have any pictures of the fruit grove or maybe your house or the houses in this area at the time you lived here I would LOVE to see them. Also, if you come accross any pics or literature for sale on line regarding this fruit grove PLEASE let me know. I once saw a book titled "Black Americana" featuring Floyds Fruit Grove for sale on ebay. It had a picture of a young African American boy on the front cover. Unfortunately, it was purchased by someone before I had a chance to bid on it. It is almost impossible to find pictures of this area anywhere. Old Miami pics are usually of areas more towards the east side of Miami. Thanks again. Hope to hear from you soon.

Mike Tripp (Gables class of '55)		10-Apr-2009 18:36
1petros73 - I lived on SW 4th St. just west of 38th Ct. from '40 thru '50. Ours was the first house on 4th. At that time, 4th did not go thru to LeJuene Rd. As kids, we used to swipe fruit from Floyd's.

Arizona Al		10-Apr-2009 13:16
1petros73: I have no recollection of Floyd's Fruit Grove. The location you identify was not close to my neighborhood (Cutler Ridge) or the places I frequented in High School or when I attended MDJC. Sorry I can not be of help. Alan Ogus, Ph.D.

1petros73		09-Apr-2009 18:42
Hello Folks, I asked about information regarding Floyd's Fruit Grove which was located on 521 sw 42 ave. 42 ave is also known as Le Jeune rd. I appreciate the feedback from Jackie- Gables 57 (I could trace the original property line thanks to her help), Arizona Al, & Jeff. I am just resubmitting this in the hopes that anyone else out there may remember this fruit grove. Judging by the postcard (which can be viewed on ebay by typing "Floyds Fruit" in the search box) the white house on the property faced Le Jeune rd. Anyone out there remember this place, have pics or stories about it? Please let me know. Also, anyone out there remember Kiko's Meat Market located on sw 152 ave & 294 st in Leisure City? My grandfather owned it from 1975 or 76 to 1986.

Leighton		07-Apr-2009 23:47
Does anyone know what became of the Sunny Isles Lutheran Church? I discovered the great building via old postcards online - it was "new" in the 60s, replacing a smaller church (same location?). Google satellite view shows the building is still there, but that street doesn't have "street view." 178th and Collins. No Lutheran church is listed in Sunny Isles, so I'm assuming some other group now owns it. (Just like my Dad's old Shenandoah Presbyterian on 8th in Little Havana. The once looming church - in the 50s/60s - still stands as an independent Cuban/Christian church - they've managed to take the original Federal Style, and convert it into Spanish Colonial.) Sunny Isles Lutheran had (has) a "whale-like" roof, and period bell tower.

Don Boyd		07-Apr-2009 20:30
There were great waves before and after a hurricane but that was about the only time and South Beach was packed with people after one in 1964 if I recall correctly. All the boards were rented out so my buddy and I were body surfing and a riptide almost caused my demise. I kept getting my head smashed into the ocean floor with every huge wave that came in and I almost didn't make it due to water ingestion and fatigue. All the serious surfers went up to Juno Beach or points north where the Bahamas don't break up the ocean swells like they did with south Florida waves. Don

Jo-Anne K		07-Apr-2009 18:50
I just looked at the two new S Beach photos..........how did we ever learn to surf???? I can remember answering the phone at the Last Wave surf shop (about one block north of A1A and 163rd St) owned by Mike Mann (Herbie Margolis was the manager) just to utter those awful words "IT'S FLAT MAN". I was ridin' a Surfboards Australia, 6'8" Stubby-V back in those days at Sunny Isles and Haulover, I'm guessing about 68 or so, was never much for the long boards, they were a little before my time. Charles K......I don't care how anyone disguises a snake, I'm not eating it. Heck, I still pick my feet up off of the floor when I see one on TV, hate 'em 'cause they scare me to death. Wild game and gator tail is a different story though.

Charles Knight		07-Apr-2009 03:53
Jo-Anne K, that was New Orleans, Cathy Bates played the snake cooking mother. In all truthfulness...Eating snake is not unusual, I've tried rattlesnake, it was OK I guess, if it tasted like chicken I guess the stigma of knowing what I was eating over rode the pleasure...My dad used to eat a lot of wild game and as a result, so did I.

Jo-Anne K		06-Apr-2009 18:48
Hey Parks........in the Adam Sandler movie "Waterboy" they had snake for dinner and at home in NC the "good ole boys" eat rattlesnake, they say it tastes like chicken (LOL).

Don Boyd		06-Apr-2009 07:09
New photos added: I added a 1965 image and a 1967 image of the real South Beach, both in the 1960's gallery. I recently found them in boxes of old photos. Don

Michael Tripp		05-Apr-2009 01:44
Roberta Perry Hughes I am from Miami (born in JMH ca 1937) and currently live in Wrens. I can find no phone number for you in the directory. If you read this, please call me at: 706-547-3048. Mike Tripp

Michael Tripp		05-Apr-2009 00:46
Roberta Perry Hughes I am from Miami (born in JMH ca 1937) and currently live in Wrens. I can find no phone number for you in the directory. If you read this, please call me at: 706-547-3048. Mike Tripp

Arizona Al		04-Apr-2009 15:02
Miami River Rat: Still alive and well. I left Miami in 1969 at age 23 and at that time the population was way to large and out of control so I can only imagine the disorganized psychosis 40 years later! On the other hand, Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun is not exempt from societal dysfunction. Alan Ogus, Ph.D., Alive and well and waxing poetically in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami River Rat		04-Apr-2009 13:04
Parks! I didn't know there was still a Royal Castle anywhere. If nothing rips, splits or tears I expect to make it down to Miami next month. I'll look for a Royal Castle. That gives me another thing to accomplish on this trip. Gotta' get my year's supply of guava jelly and other goodies from Robert Is Here and see a nephew graduate from Columbus HS. Hope to get down to Flamingo and work a day's fishing in. So much to do, so little time. And still, about a week is all I can tolerate. If Dade County still had a population of 300,000 I never would have left. Also, if frogs had wings they wouldn't bump their butts. Arizona Al, it's good to see you haven't perished in the Grand Canyon or somethin', Y'all hang in there!

Parks		03-Apr-2009 02:05
Hi Rat! Thanks for the laugh. I loved your comment about "yankees and other undesirable life forms". Two friends of mine just retired from the science lab in Everglades National Park. They say there is no hope now of eliminating the pythons but they are studying them. One of the scientists has trained a dog to track the pythons. It's a beagle. I expect that someday they will find a snake with a beagle sized bulge in it's middle. They are also trying to develope a trap for the pythons. A realllllly long Hav-A-Heart trap comes to mind. I suggested that they publish a Python cook book and the problem would solve it self. The scientists had already thought of that but they could find only one python recipe. I guess they don't taste very good. My wife and I made a trip down to Homestead last Saturday. We stopped at Robert is Here. I got a tomato that was the size of a soft ball and tasted wonderful. I also stocked up on guave jelly. On Sunday I had to drive up to Palm Beach so I took the opportunity to stop at the Royal Castle on 7th avenue and 125th street. Six little burgers and a big birch beer, I was in heaven.

Arizona Al		02-Apr-2009 15:44
Hello All: I am still alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona despite any and all rumors to the contrary. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and taking full advantage of the events and activities at Arizona Bike Week 4/1-4/5/09 in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		02-Apr-2009 14:55
Hi Roberta, I've been wondering where you've been lately. Sorry to hear about your problems with high speed internet and TV providers. I have a friend out in the boonies of south Georgia and the only high speed internet he can get is through Hughes Net satellite though folks in the nearby town and down the road have DSL but he can't get the DSL. He said the Hughes Net worked great at first but has now slowed down a lot but it could be due to his PC. Thank you for your contribution last night, I appreciate it. Miami River Rat hit it right on the head about non-natives staying around. Whoever would have thought that the gators would someday be fighting giant snakes, and sometimes losing, out in their environment? Don

Miami River Rat		02-Apr-2009 13:26
Yes, Roberta: Pythons are reproducing in the 'Glades and causing quite a problem. One difficulty with South Florida is that transplants like pythons, maleleua trees, oscar fish, water hyacinths, yankees and other undesirable life forms find the climate agreeable and instead of visiting then leaving, they hang around and make babies. On a serious note, control efforts are under way to get rid of the python population but I'm doubtful about long term success.

Roberta Perry Hughes		02-Apr-2009 07:14
A very special "Hello," to my friend, Don Boyd. Know that I appreciate you, & all that you do, to maintain this awesome & very nostalgic Site for us...even in the wee hours of the morning...! You're the best. Warmest Regards, Roberta

Roberta Perry Hughes		02-Apr-2009 07:01
Hello, Miami friends...! Just thought I'd holler at y'all, to let you know I'm still kickin'...! Tried to get some semblance of HSI, via the so-called air card, via AT&T, but...alas! No signal, this far out in the country. Locked horns with DirectTV, & cancelled there. Just cannot get all my old channels, with that joke called a digital converter box, so, was going to sign up with DTV. I might look into the Dish Network, next...but even so, no HSI available, for my area. So...! That's what I've been doing. I go on here, every now & then, to read everyone's very interesting posts, & I thank you, for them, one & all!! What's this I read on AOL news about those giant pythons, invading the 'Glades...? Updates on this, please... Thanks. Take care of your precious selves.

Guest		31-Mar-2009 15:16
When i was in High School and just after, i had a very close frien named Bernie Yuman. He was the manager for Wayne Cochron{sp} and the CC riders. They played at the small club at the Newport Hotel for a long time. After becomming somewhat famous outside Miami, the were invited to play at a famous club on the strip in Los Angeles. It was only a very short gig, but would up staying for more then a year. The house band. Big time. Anyway Bernie moved the band to Los Vegas. Did very well, but Bernie{someone} began to manage Sigfried and Roy. I went out there to visit him, and got comped into the show. It WAS the best show i have ever seen. Not music, but it was amazing. He is still friends with Wayne.Just another story about an old high shool friend who really made it big. I like stories like this. He worked very hard, nothing was given to him. Also, since the Tiger atack, Bernie is still friends with Sigfried, and Roy, and las never left there side. Anyone see Wayne[music history} at the Newport?. By the way, the Blues Brothers CD was dedicated to Wayne. Little know fact. Everyone have a great day. jsa9

Don Boyd		29-Mar-2009 23:10
New photos posted: Joe Wasik contributed a 1972 image of the Burger Castle on NW 7th Street and an early 70's image of The Hasta Restaurant on Douglas Road (restaurants gallery). Larry Creel contributed numerous early 1960's images of auto racing at Palmetto Speedway in Medley (cars gallery) and a few of his dad working at Aerodex at MIA in the early 1950's (aviation gallery). Don

Leighton		29-Mar-2009 21:43
I googled Harbor Island Spa and found this: Located in the heart of North Bay Village, 360º will rise on the former site of the historic Harbor Island Spa, for years an internationally-known resort catering to celebrities and seasonal visitors.

Merry Kay		29-Mar-2009 00:09
What has happened to Harbor Island Spa? Has it a new name or has it been torn down? I spent the summer there in 1963 and had a great time.

Jackie		26-Mar-2009 17:39
Miami River Rat... Thanks for the response. That could very well be the expanation- especially since I don't remember seeing them often. The westbound #5 city bus passed our house and turned around out near the canal. When we went downtown, we caught the bus in front of the house. On the return trip, we got off across the road so we could get home a few minutes early.

Miami River Rat		26-Mar-2009 15:43
Jackie: As Charles said, back in the time you are talking about it seemed that the indians were everywhere. There were three villages at tourist attractions in Miami, all on or near the Miami River. Those Tamiami Trail indians pretty much migrated from the 'glades back to one of the villages in town on a regular basis. It wasn't at all unusual for us to be coming back in from the 'Glades and put a whole family or two in the back of Grandpa's truck and drop them off whereever they wanted to go. Maybe the ones you saw had a regular ride that turned off the trail somewhere west of your house? Could they have been walking to a bus-stop? The indians were big users of the city bus system, back in the day.

Jeff		26-Mar-2009 05:29
Hi, Gang... Just on here for a brief moment... Here's a colorful character seldom mentioned [except by me] in all of these posts: Does anyone recall "Stretch the Beachcomber"? I vividly remember him during the 1960's. He claimed to have amnesia, and he lived in a chickee hut on the beach behind the Shelborne Hotel at 18th Street and Collins Avenue. His long, blond ponytail was quite unusual in the pre-Hippie era, and he was a definite character. Years later this thought came to me: If "Stretch" HAD amnesia, how did he manage to have a driver's license? I saw him driving a car one time... was he driving illegally, or was the "amnesia" his own personal folklore...? I think we all KNOW the answer to that rhetorical question...

Charles Knight		26-Mar-2009 03:00
We learned to swim in the Tamiami canal, my father, Godfather, and some of their friends that worked at theSeaquarium started the first underwater rescue team in South Florida in the early sixties, dad threw us kids in the canal and said "swim" so we did. Later we were tought to scuba dive in a motel pool near the Lindsay Lumber on 8th St near the railroad tracks. Scuba was pretty much still in it's infancy and some of the masks had multiple valves and hoses, they were quite heavy as I recall. I had a single tank but dads was a four pack just like Sea hunt! He and my brother both did stunt work on that show as well as other local productions. My mother told me that dad was tought scuba by Jaques Cousteau himself. It seems feasable as my Godparents were both Marine Biologists and were actually married in the shark tank at theSeaquarium, I was too young to have been there but have seen the photos and Herald clippings. Indians were everywhere, I had forgotten this but now recall a loner that lived in a chickee just east of Sweetwater in '64 or '65.

Jackie		25-Mar-2009 00:47
Charles ... Thanks for responding. When I was little, it never occurred to me to question where they might have come from or even where they were going. They only came by a few times that I know of, so it might not have been an easy trip. We used to fish along the Trail canal nearly out to Sweetwater, but I don't recall seeing any other people of any kind... not even a lot of cars passing by.

Charles Knight		24-Mar-2009 18:10
Hmm, I have absolutely no idea, but at the time there may have still been villages even closer than say...Sweetwater? Anyone know? Like I said. The closest one I remember was the Osceola Village.

Jackie		24-Mar-2009 13:09
I was wondering the same thing myself, Charles. There's a hint of spring in north Georgia, so it's fun to be outside. Also, Charles, I have a vague recollection of seeing an Indian family walking east on the Tamiami Trail in front of our house in the late 1940's - early 50's. We had "tourist cottages" three blocks west of Red Road on the Trail. I wonder how they got there from their village? Did they walk the whole way?

Charles Knight		24-Mar-2009 11:30
Ok...It's been some time since anyone has said anything here and when that happens I start to worry. Are you alright? Perhaps I should call roll?

Don Boyd		20-Mar-2009 05:41
Jo-Anne K: okay, thanks. Maybe one of these days but that's okay, I'm buried in old stuff to add as it is. For those interested in Hialeah Park's revival: they were recently awarded a racing permit for quarter horse racing. Here is the link regarding the one-year time limit to begin racing and other details: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking-news/story/958625.html Don

Jo-Anne K		17-Mar-2009 23:25
Hi All...........I read the posts everyday but I just haven't had anything of interest to say. Don.....was home two weeks ago for a funeral, no time for photos and have had no time at work to get to the others.

charlis		16-Mar-2009 21:34
Jeff... I agree about King of the Hill... almost fell out of bed when the show came on! It was a repeat. The timing was perfect though...

Don Boyd		16-Mar-2009 16:31
New photos added: Fred Darwick sent an old Miami Daily News 1936 aerial image of Miami looking south with Miami High in the foreground (1930's gallery, with a cropped closeup version in the Schools gallery). Also added a 1960's image of the oceanfront bar with a bunch of guys and a few chicks at the Castaways Resort (Hotels gallery). And I added several more late 1910's photos of George Carpenter at Curtiss Field sent in by his grandson Drew Mosher (Aviation gallery, Curtiss Field sub-gallery). Don

Jeff		16-Mar-2009 00:38
What goes around comes around... Tonight's episode of King of the Hill involved Bobby Hill wanting to go to Cotillion! Also... the weekend's Dreco Dive... er... Deco Drive had a feature about a new club on South Beach that features an airplane theme - complete to it's decor made from actual planes... Shades of Kitty Davis' Airliner on Alton Road!

Don Boyd		15-Mar-2009 22:35
Tim, a 1963 photo of the Catalina shopping center with the Rexall Drugs that was near your home is in the Hialeah gallery athttp://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/107855582 . Your odds of having someone speak up if they knew you way back when would be better if you posted in the Hialeah gallery, along with your year of birth or year of graduation from high school so people will know if you're about the same age as them. The park near your home was O'Quinn Park. I don't have any of the roller rinks yet but there is a patch for the 8th anniversary of Rustic Roller rink in the Hialeah gallery. Don

Tim		15-Mar-2009 21:26
I grew up in Hialeah in the 50"s and 60's and 70's I lived near Plam Avenue and East 61st Street. I have great memories of my childhood and I am hoping maybe someone will read this that grew up near me. I remember a park near my house but can't be sure of the name? I also remember a RX drug store on 53rd Street and Plam Ave. I would eat in alot in those days. I worked at the Hess on East 49th Street in the 70's. Roller Skating was my love and I skated all the time at Hialeah Roller Rink does anyone have pictures of the old rink?

Don Boyd		15-Mar-2009 15:43
New photos added today: six images contributed by Drew Mosher from the late 1910's of his grandfather at Curtiss Field in Hialeah (aviation gallery, Curtiss Field sub-gallery), a 1950's image of the Arbordale Lodge Motel on Biscayne and 108th (hotels gallery), a 1940 image of the Paramount Soda Shop on Flagler (restaurants gallery), a 1940's or 1950's image of Betty's Restaurant at Biscayne and 14th Street (restaurants gallery), a 1930's of the Walgreens on East Flagler (downtown gallery) and George Young contributed an image of his rare 1950's record "Baby Let Me Bang Your Box" by Doug Clark & The Nuts (music gallery). Don

charlis		14-Mar-2009 17:37
As to the Cotillion... I remember my mother making a comment about it... wishing that they did something like that on Miami Beach as she had been to many similar events as a child in France and NYC (when she and her dad came home to visit and her aunt took her to cotillions in NYC). Back to manners... I will be 60 in a few months... I am a woman... and I still let people older than me go first, hold doors open for them!

charlis		14-Mar-2009 17:29
leighton... I agree with you... there is no such thing as "manners" today. "Bad manners" is becoming a disease in this country. We were brought up with the "ladies go first", "Seniors go first whether male or female" and the person holding the door is male or female is to let a "senior" go first. Yesterday, at work, I was in a conversation with someone... a younger person interupted us... just came up and started talking. He still kept talking after the person I was talking to made a comment. I'd like it to be a criminal offense if you are talking on a cell phone while driving, even hands free, if you have children in the car.

charlis		14-Mar-2009 17:21
jeff... uncommon sense.. love it!!!!!

Ray		14-Mar-2009 00:36
About the last link Don posted about the Miami trivia... Totally ripped off from my page (without credit) http://rayvaughan.com/miami_trivia.htm. I wrote most of those and the ones I didn't, I credited after the answers. Oh well... About cotillion, at the time I was so happy I didn't get forced to do it. Many of my friends in the Gables had to. It seemed so silly at the time. Now I regret it. And you're right about the lack of these skills today. Even simple stuff, like how to place your knife and fork to tell the waiter you're done... no one knows this stuff any more. When I'm out with some of my younger friends I often try to pass some of this stuff on. While it might get a laugh, I remind them that they might just have to share a meal with a future employer and every impression is important. Ray

Fran		13-Mar-2009 18:47
Jackie I remember the time well and loved every moment. Thanked my parents for insisting that we participated. My joy and fond moments were relived when my youngest daughter attended the ball at the Austin Country Club. Mrs. Snodgrass instructed and guided our children from Georgetown,Texas. They have become out standing young adults. Yes, even today, cotillion is still alive and well.

Don Boyd		13-Mar-2009 16:02
New photos added: two 1970 aerial images of the Army's Nike Hercules/Hawk Air Defense missile site in Miramar and the control center for that site on NW 183rd Street in Dade (aviation gallery). Dale Reed contributed four 1960 aerial images of Brown's Airport in Kendall (aviation gallery). Don

Jackie		13-Mar-2009 13:56
I attended cotillion in the 50's at the Coral Gables Library/Women's Club. The Nowakowkis were wonderful dance and etiquette teachers...we were "shaped up" in such an entertaining way that we barely noticed it happening. I suppose some of their students were "well-to-do", but most of us were just regular kids. Anyway, junior high was stressful enough (and still is), and having some practice in handling awkward social situations (like spilling punch on the carpet at a party or introducing a friend to your parents) somehow made the early teen years a little easier. And we learned some dance steps, too.

Jeff		13-Mar-2009 01:52
Leighton, I coined a phrase a few years back that goes like this: "If common people had common sense, then they wouldn't be COMMON people - perhaps they should call it UNCOMMON sense!"

Leighton		12-Mar-2009 19:34
My sister and I attended cotillion in the early 70s - somewhere in the Gables. I wish more people had been - the etiquette situation in our country right now, has reached rock bottom. Wedding couples begging for gifts, party "hosts" asking you to bring the food and drink, cell phone idiots, airplane passengers from hell - you name it. What passes for "manners" these days, is so far off track, it blows the mind.

Guest		12-Mar-2009 17:22
Anybody remember "Cotillion"? It was big around the Palmetto "well-to-do" crowd.

Fran		10-Mar-2009 18:53
I did check this site out. It is very interesting and full of facts. Thanks, Don

Don Boyd		10-Mar-2009 15:26
There's an interesting Old Miami Trivia contest and a lot of interesting memories at: http://www.sweagles67.com/trivia/ Don

Jeff		10-Mar-2009 00:44
Charlis - I never worked for NuArt Signs... I just used to buy stick-on letters from Benny years ago...

charlis		09-Mar-2009 23:25
guest... I can understand you not wanting to give your name... it's just that we have all become friends here, or renewed old friendships... my ex was the av nerd. I loved Skip... he was a great teacher.

charlis		09-Mar-2009 23:22
jeff... Nu Art signs.... ;-)

Jeff		09-Mar-2009 06:10
Charles - You must know Ron and Howard Albert quite well... I just saw them on Friday. They were mixing some tracks for Howard's daughter (Ashley) who - aside from being a talented voice-over artist in New York, has a "kiddie band" called "The Jimmies" who make fun songs for tiny tikes...

Charles Knight		09-Mar-2009 04:01
Jeff, The Crazy world of Arthur Brown featured Carl Palmer of "Emerson Lake & Palmer" ...Cool stuff, in the late sixties Janis Joplin and CSNY played at the B-Bar ranch just east of Sweetwater between the Tamiami trail and Flagler street. The idea was to do a series of pop & rock concerts there but it never panned out. In the eighties I bought a bunch of equipment from Criteria, still have some of it, mic's that Clapton used as well as more...Just can't bring myself to part with it!

Jeff		08-Mar-2009 16:30
jsa9- I can understand and respect your privacy concerns. I'm a fairly private guy myself... however no one can contact you directly unless you wish to be contacted and make that possibility available. Anyway, no big deal... it's not an issue by any means... The Miami Pop Festival was held (of all things) at Gulfstream Park - and I was too young (and too insecure and square at the time) to have attended.. coming from a moderately conservate household, my parents would NEVER have approved... However, two fellows I worked for a few years back (Ron and Howard Albert) were then the chief audio engineers at Criteria Recording Studios, and they had a mobile console out there recording the whole concert. Regrettably, when the promoter (who went on to be one of the people who organized Woodstock) didn't pay for the recordings, Criteria took him to court, and the tapes were put into evidence. That's the last anyone ever saw of them. The only surviving recording was a dub of about 20 minutes of Jimi Hendrix that someone at Criteria saved for posterity... Somehow, that's made its way around the world with collectors. Aside from Hendrix, the Chambers Brothers Brothers and the Crazy World of Arthur Brown were among the acts. In hindsight, I wish I COULD have been there... or at the concerts in Greynolds Park...

Guest		08-Mar-2009 14:47
Jeff, Coach Dunkel was my track coach for 3 years. Good man. My first name is not your typical first name, im sure people would see it and know who i am. Im a pretty private guy who just doesnt want his name out there. Hope you understand. I graduated in 1968 so i really dont remember your friends band. There was a fantastic band{1966-68}called the Mystics. Three or four guys from the beach who were a little older them me. They played everywhere. I belonged to a club{at Beach} and we would hire them to play at our parties. The song that they were known for was Stand By Me. Did you go tho the Miami Pop Festival, or was that before your time?. Every Easter, in the field which is now East Greynolds Park, the Grateful Dead would play for free. They would play for hours without stoping. Good old days. jsa9

DIANE STEVENS PINKARD		08-Mar-2009 03:17
I LOVED THE QUEEN MARY CLUB ON VENTURE BLVD AND COLDWATER CANYON BLVD. WHY DID IT GO OUT OF BUSINESS???? IS THERE A CLUB LIKE IT IN LA??? DEVOON

Jeff		07-Mar-2009 22:00
jsa9 - Yep... it was THAT Morton Downey, Jr.! Of course I remember Pennway... but the soda fountain was LONG gone by the time I was at Fisher... Can't understand why you won't give a first name... Is your ex on here??? Do you remember Mayfield's Coffee Shop with the screen door next to the bakery on Drexel just before 15th Street? On the Espanola corner was a fruit and vegetable market (open air)... Mrs. Mayfield later moved to Lincoln Lane... Skip Bertman was my phys-ed coach at Beach High, along with Orrin Shroeder and Irv Dunkel. Dunkel's parents ended up living in my apartment building on Lenox Avenue until their passing... You mention the 5th Street Gym. Do you recall the news stand downstairs on the corner? My long-time friend Larry Stang's mother [Pauline] ran it for years. Larry had a band called Larry's Stang's Method aka Broadway Park that was popular during the time you graduated from Beach Hi through 1971-72... Charlis - so sorry to hear that Evie's doing worse... and please remind me... 'cause I've been through a lot during the past 3-4 weeks... we worked for the same business??? Which one? I'm drawing a blank...

Guest		07-Mar-2009 21:42
sorry, that was me --jsa9

Guest		07-Mar-2009 21:41
Jeff, Was Doc Downey really Morton?. Im serious, i remember him being sort of a jerk. Now i understand. I knew he had problems with WFUN, but forgot what it was. I cant believe Sol and Joe are still alive. Thats great. Joe and i went round and round sometimes, but he was always fair.I went to Nautilus for almost one year, but, my dad thought i would be happier at Fisher. He was right. It was great, i had friends from both schools. Being able to skip school and hang out on Lincoln Rd. was great, especially when you could go to the Carib movie theater or the Colony-Beach etc. Remember next to Fisher was the store{food} Penways?. What do you think of Skip Bertman at LSU.Id rather not give my name--at least for now.Also, i worked at the Sorento--Roney Plaza{when it was cool}--and Ritz Plaza-Barcelona. At Fisher, i would skip school and hang out at the 5th street gym for hours. You KNOW who i got to see all the time. Pretty cool.

charlis		07-Mar-2009 20:10
guest MB '68... name? I was also from a not rich family... I was also not jewish or cuban... I am from the calss of '67 but ex is from '68... sister is from Jeff's class. I was doing sub teaching work at Beach in 69-72. Jeff and I used to work for the same business, and were both good friends with Robert Kope... he was the best man at my wedding, and god father to my daughter. Chuck Hageman (sic) was from my old home town in OH... my cousin used to babysit his kids.

charlis		07-Mar-2009 20:04
jeff... lichter and ramram still alive! Congrats to them both... loved ramram... PS: Evie not doing good.

Jeff		07-Mar-2009 19:33
I'd forgot to mention Imperial Lanes... That bowing alley had a lot of names - but lasted up until the 1990's. It was also known as Interama Bowl, Pinerama and West Dixie Lanes. At one point, there was a small movie theater built on the rear of the property that ran "dollar movies"... By the way, pay no attention to Don's allegation that Popeye Playhouse was my favorite show for ten years. I was strictly a "Jumpin' Jack's 4 O'Clock Club" devotee...!

Jeff		07-Mar-2009 19:28
Thanks, jsa9 for your comments, and thanks, Don for the character assasination! {:cP Doc Downey was the late Morton Downey, Jr. - son of the famous Irish tenor of 1940's radio fame and later a sensationalist "tabloid" talk show host. His tenure at WFUN was brief, because he (as part of the radio war between WQAM and WFUN) allegedly gave out Charlie Murdock's home phone number over the air, and was also accused (although cleared) of "pushing" a record he had some interest in by the H.M. S. Subjects aka the Montells... a checkered career, to say the least. You are right about Ollie Gleuckenhaus - he was so proud of his spice blend seared into the burger with worcestershire sauce that is was a crime against nature to ask for ketchup in his place! In truth, Ollie was a VERY NICE person - I had the pleasure of chatting with him a number of times before his passing some years back. I also went to Fisher - and the year I started there (1964-65) was the last one before Sol Lichter and Joe Marmar went over to Beach High. They both are very much alive... Sol is 88 and Joe is 90! My friend Alan Matthews used to manage the Georgian Hotel's pool area. Did you ever work there?

Guest		07-Mar-2009 17:05
Hi Jeff, I graduated in 1968. Sorry you had a bad time at Beach High. I had i great time. I was far from rich, like most of my friends , but for some reason it didnt seem to matter. For Don, sure i remember the Atlantis Hotel. I went to Fisher jr. High and after school i would clean the pool areas{take in towels, mats etc} at some of the hotels on Collins. Like the Seville. No SS card, all cash. Had to pick up the Coach City bus over the bridge on 79th st. Going from North Bay Village to North Miami was a all day adventure. Saw some good bands at the Surfside Comm. Center. I think it was 5 bucks to get in, maybe less. There was a DJ named Doc Downey who put the concerts on. I think he was from WFUN radio station. I also skipped lunch at school{Beach} to go to Ollies. He was great. If you ordered a burger{which everyone did} and you asked for Ketchup, the waitress would YELL for Ollie to come out. He would tell you that his burgers were so great that they didnt need anything, and if you put anything on it he would ban you from comming back. I promise thats true. jsa9

Don Boyd		07-Mar-2009 05:46
Charles Knight: I'm glad to hear you're not crazy and that there was a Wild Mouse roller coaster at Pirates World too. However, I don't believe Jeff one iota when he proclaims the same. : ) New photos added: Keith Pesce contributed two images from Popeye's Playhouse, Jeff's favorite TV show for at least ten years, featuring his dad "Uncle Don." (main memories page). Charlie Rice contributed two 1940's images - one of Bayfront Park and downtown Miami and a 1942 image of the Navy's Sub Chaser Training Center (SCTC) at the Port of Miami (both in the downtown gallery). Robert Baker contributed some images of stock car racing at Hialeah Speedway (Hialeah gallery, Hialeah Speedway sub-gallery), and images of a 1966 Hollywood Speedway program (cars gallery) which had some restaurant ads (restaurants gallery) and an ad for Imperial Bowling Lanes in North Miami Beach (old local ads gallery). Larry Coppala contributed a 1967 image of his wife Sheila with Vice President Hubert Humphrey at Opa-locka Airport; Humphrey was taping a message to Larry who was serving in Viet Nam at the time (individuals gallery). Don

Arizona Al		07-Mar-2009 02:55
For the Beach High Alumni: I had a good friend named Jerome (Jerry) Leshnick who went to Beach High and graduated in 1964. His father, Max Leshnick owned the Atlantis Hotel in South Beach which I am certain has gone the way of demolition. Do any of you remember Jerry? Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

charlis		06-Mar-2009 23:43
guest.. what year at Beach High?

charlis		06-Mar-2009 23:40
guest... the original Lums was on 41st street... the original Ollies was on 21st, or nearby... Beach Hi students used to sneak out for lunch there. The Lum's around the corner was pretty much like the one on 41st St.

Jeff		06-Mar-2009 22:16
Guest.... is this actually jsa9? Yes, there WAS a Dairy Queen in the shopping center... in fact, I think the Dairy Queen preceded the Dunkin' Donuts, and was in the same storefront location! Coast City Coaches started operations in North Miami circa 1948, and was owned by Nelson Whyte until the line (along with William Pawley's Miami routes and the Coral Gables Bus System) were purchased by the county and consolodated into the Metro transit Authority. Pawley didn't provide service past NE 125th Street, and Coast City Coaches took over for Northbound service. At one time, I had a coffee can full of bus tokens from CCC, courtesy of Nelson Whyte's widow [Beverly]... those are now long-gone... but I think I still have one kicking around somewhere! A photo (now in the collection of Seth Bramson) showed Whyte and then-Mayor of the Town of North Miami [pre-city incorporation] Ed Taigman cutting a bus-shaped cake in honor of the event of CCC coming to the town. I believe that Charlis touched on the Deaville ice skating rink. She and I are also Beach High alumni - and we both have quite a disdain for the years we were there... I graduated in 1970.

Guest		06-Mar-2009 18:16
Don and Jeff, Thanks for all the info on North Bay Village. My family moved to Treasure Island in 1955. No trees, dirt streets, no sewers. Nothing would grow because the soil was almost all salt. I went to Beach High. So, i know the beach very well. At that time, we had the entire Beach pretty much to ourselves. It was great. We didnt go to miami very often, because we didnt have to.Sometimes if my friends and i wanted to go to North Miami we had to take the Coach City Bus Line. Old funky buses, but a lot of fun to ride. Also, on Treasure Island, there was a Dairy Queen near where the fast food store is now. Yes, i remember the Dunkin Donuts. The guy who owned Fun Fair was a man named Klein or Kleinman. I went to school with his son. They had Pizza burgers, games{bumper pool}, unreal hot dogs. All outdoors, and you could just hang out there for hours. No one would ever say "you had to leave". The first Lums was on 41st. street on the beach. Ollies Burgers were on the same block. Ollie sold his secret burgers to Lums. Im sure its somewhere on your site, but what about the Ice skating rink at the Deauville hotel. Saw the Beatles there, on Eds show. One more thing, Peter Framton lives in North Bay Village. Now. Really. More latter when it comes to me.

Jeff		06-Mar-2009 06:42
I'm not crazy either! The Sea 'n' Sun MOTEL! I just spotted a postcard at this link: www.cardcow.com/123365/sea-n-sun-motel-79th-street-causeway-miami-beach-us-state-town-views-florida-miami-beach/ This is the group of buildings in Treasure Island (300 units) that were turned into a convalescent home in the mid-60's)!

Charles Knight		06-Mar-2009 04:11
Hi all...I knew I wasn't crazy! There was a "Wild Mouse" on Funland AND Pirates World in Dania, just Google Pirates World and there's even a photo of it.

Arizona Al		05-Mar-2009 22:32
Hello All: Ok now it is my turn to recall Funland Park. On several occasions before we got our driver's licenses at age 16 (1961-1962) the Ridge Rats would hitch hike from Cutler Ridge to North Miami and hang out at Funland Park, I recall the Wild Mouse, The Bullet. and the carnie-operated dart games, bottle hoop games, ring toss games etc. However, the most indelible memory I have is just the feeling of freedom that a 14 or 15 year old had to be at Funland Park without parental supervision...a perfect segway to mischief and delinquent behavior. Alan Ogus, Ph.D..Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona and still willing to ride the Wild Mouse at age 63.

Roberta Perry Hughes		05-Mar-2009 18:16
Ooops...! Misspelled my own name...!! Guess those old memories of Funlands 2 rides still shake-me-up, huh...??

Roberta Pery Hughes		05-Mar-2009 18:13
At Funland, I rode the Wild Mouse...once...which was one time too many, for the young child I was...only around 8 years old, then. It was a frightening experience, so bad that it left me speechless, when I first got off of it, & was pale as a ghost, from what I heard, from my sister. However, my brother loved it, & he wanted to ride it repeatedly. On another visit to that amusement park, I was talked in to riding The Bullet. I totally freaked out, on that ride, in a fit of hysteria. When it finally stopped, & I got off of it, they told me that I ran right up the legs of my uncle, who had taken us there, & clung to him like a drowning person to a straw, & that I was visibly shaken, to the point that some of my hair just fell out. I was that frightened. Needless to say, that was the end of Roberta ever getting on any such "rides," for the rest of her natural-born life. With the exception of the Carousels, or Merry-go-rounds, I had no use for amusement parks, or Fairs, after those ordeals. With all of the tragic horror stories, in recent years, of children falling to their deaths, from such amusements park rides, I am amazed that parents & grandparents continue to allow their children to ride these dangerous rides.

Guest55		05-Mar-2009 17:33
Thanks Don, Arch Creek was the name for which I was looking. Husband and I got our licenses there probably in '76. Didn't start driving til I was twenty, did a lot of walking and bus riding. My mother-in-law got her license there also probably in mid sixties after driving around Opa-locka for years without one.

Jeff		05-Mar-2009 15:34
jsa9: I do believe that somewhere on the older posts page I'd noted Beach Bowl - located in the White Star Shopping Plaza - which was also the home of Radio Weiner's Bonfire Restaurant. At one time, there was also a Dunkin' Donuts (or similar brand) located there. The bowling alley was long-closed when I used to hang out with a friend who lived on Treasure Island in the mid-1960's. During those years, the hot spots in North Bay Village were the Bonfire, The Place for Steak, Nick and Arthur's, Dean Martin's Restaurant, Tony's Fish Market, the Luau, Fun Fair and the Runaway Bay Club. The seedy Jilly's was in operation just West of Causeway Bait and Tackle, and there was the Belly Buster Sub Shop - located next to the convenience store in the same corner of the shopping center where the donut shop once was... The Barn (formerly the Peppermint Lounge) - was built on the old site of Colonel Jim's Bar-B-Q; but by the mid-60's had became The Mix II... and Larry Paskow's Harbor Island Spa was in its heydey... The motel (or were they apartments?) just East of the shopping center was turned into a convalescent home. I think the original name was the Sea and Sun [from an old aerial photo I once had]... One of the early residents of Treasure Island was Jake Lamotta! The whole North Bay Village (North Bay Island Development) was planned and built by Milton Steinhardt and his partners during the 1940's... filling in the most Northermost island of what would have been the far North end of the Garibaldi Island group of Venetian Islands. The original plans (as shown in a Howard Kleinberg book) brought the Venetian Isles Northward from the middle of the Venetian Causeway to where North Bay Village is today. This was in 1926, long before the Julia Tuttle Causeway was thought of... and it was the '26 hurricane that put an end to those plans. The only surviving remnant of the project is "Pelican Island"... the rectangle of pilings adjacent to the South side of the Julia Tuttle... right after those piling were driven and before dredging could begin, the storm struck...

Charles Knight		05-Mar-2009 12:27
Thanks Gary I believe thee correct, I've never been to funland, by the time I was a teen I worked at "Tony's Pawn" on 27th anf 69th St (about) sorting hubcaps etc. The area was NOT a tourist friendly place.

Don Boyd		05-Mar-2009 07:32
Guest 55: at what time period? I got my restricted license at age 15 (1962) at the FHP station that was located on West Dixie Highway a few blocks north of 135th Street on the east side of the street. This drivers license station was later moved to the old FEC North Miami train passenger station when they had the lengthy strike and stopped all passenger service. A photo of it is in the 50's gallery at: http://www.pbase.com/image/91516456 . It wasn't Snapper Creek. I'm pretty sure it was Arch Creek which is somewhere in the area. The southern boundary of Greynolds Park is at NE 174th Street which puts it a few miles north of where the drivers license stations were located. Gary: don't worry about the duplicate entries, it happens a lot on PBase and even does it to me. I just delete them when I see them. Thank you for your comments, especially about Funland being open as late as 1969 and your feelings about Miami way back when. jsa9: sorry about the North Bay Village omissions but it wasn't intentional. I do have a photo of Fun Fair on here at: http://www.pbase.com/donboyd/image/96729597 but not the restaurants (yet). Don

Gary Heery		05-Mar-2009 07:01
Hi All, Just before leaving Miami in '69 I lived in Palm Lake Trailer Park it is/was directly behind Funland. The Wild Mouse was still there when I left and the park was still in operation. My mothers boyfriend was John Boatwright who was a partner with Amusements of America. I spent many great times there, including running some of the rides with the "Carnies". The other trailer park behind the Funland was J~Bar~J (lived there too). I was born in Kendall '52 and raised in the Miami area until '69 when I left for a job in Long Island, NY. By the way Charles...it was "THEE IMAGE" I still have ticket stubs somewhere. God Bless All of You Miamians and also the wannabees who missed out on growing up in a true paradise that some only get to dream about.

Guest55		05-Mar-2009 03:31
Does anyone remember the name of the driver's license office in North Miami? Was it the Snapper Creek Station? Was it pretty close to Greynolds? Thanks.

whitebelt		05-Mar-2009 00:10
I remember going to Funland in I believe it was 1965. I worked at the Kwik Chek on 95th and NW 27th with some hoodlums from Central High. We would go there after work some times and cause trouble. They still had the Wild Mouse and the Bullet. They were definitely still open after 1963.

jsa9		04-Mar-2009 16:16
Don, I cant believe you didnt mention a few GREAT places in North Bay Village. W hat about Beach Bowl near the Bonfire, they also had a pool tables .. How could you have forgotten Fun Fair accross the street. An icon for many years. Also the Place for steak{per Lenny Bruce}, it was a big Mafia hangout for a long time. plus great steaks.More to come. Thanks, jsa9.

Don Boyd		04-Mar-2009 02:53
No, you're not messed up because it was on the southwest corner of 79th and 27th behind the Frank 'n Bun. There are two 1960 photos in the Restaurants gallery of the new Northside Shopping Center with the Frank 'n Bun in the background but I can't tell where Funland is in the photos. On another note, the great Chuck Stewart sent me some links to some new old videos he has released with the first three featuring Jumpin' Jack O'Brien: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFtyLFqiQNg (The Best of Jumpin' Jack O'Brien) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K79hXEipNCI (Scuba Weather/WPLG) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUGWuoZRk4U (A Municipal Auto Sales spot) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgnkR_c-tyw (Newswatch 10) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKadFKdbMug (EAL, The Wings of Man tribute) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1b3RSyPVHg (Vintage Ch 10 footage) Don

charlis		03-Mar-2009 22:42
charlie... thanks for the info... I'll check out my space this weekend. Congrats on the mention in the book. I loved Barry when I lived down there... and loved the Harry Anderson TV show about Barry.

Fran		03-Mar-2009 17:56
The Wild Mouse was located at Fun Land. Although Pirates World may have had the "Wild Mouse Ride". I just don't remember it there. My last concert at Pirates World was the Chambers Brothers concert. Love, Peace and Happiness, good times.

Don Boyd		03-Mar-2009 16:40
Charles, the Wild Mouse was at Funland and I rode it many times though it was scary. Other readers have also commented on it in far older comments. I don't remember it at all at Pirates World but that was a later era when I wasn't so much into roller coasters at the time. Don

Charles Knight		03-Mar-2009 14:09
Charliss, I forgot to mention...Read Dave Barry as well, if you like Hiaasen and Dorsey, you'll like him.

Charles Knight		03-Mar-2009 14:04
Guest, I believe the "Wild Mouse" was at Pirates World in Dania, Charlis...Mr. Dorsey has contacted me via my myspace/GatorHookLodge site. His next book will culminate on the Loop road where I'm from in the Glades and my family's bar will be a focal point to the story, as you might surmise...I'm pretty excited! Feel free to check it out and be sure to read the"Blogs", they're in no special order, just true stories of life in the Glades during my youth. Charlie www.Myspace.com/GatorHookLodge

Guest55		03-Mar-2009 01:25
I goofed. I wasn't as clear on the opening and closing years for Funland as I could have been. Opened in 1955 and closed in 1963 according to sources I found. Area began to decline probably late sixties.

charlis		02-Mar-2009 23:01
kent... I have to wait until this weekend to get the new book... the other writer, finally remembered, is Dorsey. Both Haissen and Dorsey make FL look like the weird place it really it is.

charlis		02-Mar-2009 22:57
Funland and Northside... I seem to remember it being open in the mid to late 60's... but it was in a "less than desirable neighborhood", but other posts elsewhere say it closed in '63... I do remember going to a drive-in near there called Funland.

Guest55		02-Mar-2009 17:38
Have been trying to catch up on comments in the various galleries and noticed that we have not been able to nail down opening and closing dates for Funland near Northside Shopping Center. I asked a few folks that were around at that time, but none could narrow it down. Next did a little web surfing and found a couple of sites that track amusement park rides. The consensus from about 3 of those sources is 1955-1963. This info came from sites about the Mad or Wild Mouse and the Scrambler. One sight said Funland owned by George MacLean. Have not pursued this lead as of yet. Hope info is helpful.

Sunshine		02-Mar-2009 00:11
Sunshine here! (Kent). Reading that Fool's Paradise book...pretty good... and it says, 'more than half of Miami Beach was dredged up from the bay bottom. ' Carl Fisher, et al. I just didn't know it was that much. Thought I'd pass it on. Charlis, River Rat... I jumped the gun. Just heard 'river rat" and thought of the Little River Rats. I know a lot the names in this book...Fool's paradise... it moves back and forth from inception of the 'riviera of the south' to the gaudy now. Gotta love it. Ta' Kent

Miami River Rat		27-Feb-2009 01:52
Whitebelt: No, I didn't go to Jackson. I did live close enough to Jackson that I knew a number of kids that went there. In the normal course of events I would have gone to Miami High. My mom moved us out to the boonies, Red Road a little south of Coral Way, prior to my 10th grade year. So I went to HS at Southwest, which was a new school at that time.

whitebelt		26-Feb-2009 23:05
River Rat, you went to Jackson? I was in the class of 67.

charlis		26-Feb-2009 22:39
Kent... thanks for the Springfield info... I think I'll pass on looking at the site... I want to remember the town as it was... hoping it is still "stuck in the 60's" ;-)

charlis		26-Feb-2009 22:36
Little River area was up around 79th Street, west of Biscayne Blvd.

Miami River Rat		26-Feb-2009 19:26
By Kent: "OH! River Rat...! How about them Little River Rats, in the 50s... I knew a gang leader, briefly...damn near wound up with one of their tatoos on my hand. Did you have dealings?" As one of Kinloch's "Black Scorpions", I got into into a rumble with some of those Little River Rats one time. Big deal outside of a dance at Bayfront Park auditorium, about 1958. Other than that, no. I lived/played and mostly grew up on the Miami River and that's where my username came from. Little River, that was "way up north somewhere". There was also a gang called the Alapattah Rats. I did know some of them, Jackson High school being not so far away.

Don Boyd		26-Feb-2009 05:00
Kent, now known as "Sunshine", posted these on the wrong page and I am moving them here so people can see them: Sunshine PM 25-Feb-2009 13:46 Ok... This be Kent, now "Sunshine," logging back in as registered (I hope). I just wanted to leave that article on the crack scene in Springfield, Ohio, circa 1993...that's archived in The American Prospect: http://www.prospect.org/cs/articles?article=the_house_that_crack_built If you arrow down to the Afterword, by me, you'll get your bearings on it. They've included two responding 'critics', both sociologists working in the drug scenes at the time. The DeIulio one is not worth the pixels its rubbing the backsides of; skip it. The Mercer Sullivan response, though hard on the article, is pretty interesting. The stuff in my article (written in "their" voice), is really what about a 100 of them, all convicted crack felons, male and female, agreed was pretty much what went down. What was really interesting to me, is the Sullivan remark that leads one to realize that a crack scene is a genre of sorts...it will change over time. And Springfield of 1993 was way behind Philadelphia or LA or anywhere big...it was a throwback in time. And, why not? Aren't we all "behind" California (right turn on red, no smoking, energy conserv., etc.) in many telling ways? ttfn, Sunshine (an ironic sobriquet from prepschool... alluding I think to my Tigger/Eyore dual personality). (Kent). Charlis... enjoy! Guest (Kent, soon to be known as Sunshine) 25-Feb-2009 13:17 Oh, hey, dear Charlis, Jeff, River Rat...et al. SO many thanks for yr return input. Listening to "Salt" by the Vagabonds...it's like Proust's little tea cake: I can see my parents, see the night club, smell the smoke, hear the ice... their baggy pants. Amazing. Sorry not to get back sooner: have been immersed in finishing this book...and getting close. What a nice remark in there.."can't wait to read Kent's book.." I'll sure let you know. Let me ask...I have a long essay, about growing up as a more or less "bad boy" in Miami, privileged but delinquent, that's pretty good...but no one has taken. Puzzles me. Anyone suggest a Florida magazine, literary I guess, because the thing is long..it's an essay, mainly about my fixation on a 'bad' friend, but it sure recaps Miami of the late 50s...when we were 16 and 17 and so on. Hey, have a short short coming out in Antioch Review, in next issue. A good Ohio mag...been trying to break into it for 20+ years! Really pleased. It's a tribute (albeit ghoulish) to my mom, who lived in M.B. in the 1930s, went to Beach High, etc. When I was born, '41, we moved to Sunset Islands. Was just back there, week or so ago...and they're renovating that house again! Millions on top of millions. (SOMEbody's got to keep the economy going, eh?) Lessee... interested in the Springfield crack scene? Check out American Prospect's archives... I''ll get the address in a minute. Charlis..you'd be interested. So would half-brother. So what about the undertows, and drowning. No one out there ever drowned? (I did once...the bad boy mentioned above saved me.) (not all bad) . Very best to you all. OH. Did you see the Hiasen review of Fool's Paradise, in NYT Bk Rev last Sunday? Looks like a fun book...just got it. Steven Gaines, did a wonderful on on the Hamptons. I'll go get the American Prospect link, and shut up. All best, Kent (guess I'd better register..) OH! River Rat...! How about them Little River Rats, inthe 50s... I knew a gang leader, briefly...damn near wound up with one of their tatoos on my hand. Did you have dealings?

Charles Knight		24-Feb-2009 04:54
We used to eat at the Miccosukee restaurant pretty often and I don't remember the painting but I do remember the Mosiac on the West wall as it was massive. Another thing I remember was that the Jukebox in the resataurant had a lot of Rock and Roll on it!

Charles Knight		24-Feb-2009 04:50
Hey Whitebelt, sorry to hear about Steve, he was a really good guy, the more dominant of the two brothers if I remember correctly. Do you know what Lee's been up to? It sounds as though you may be friends...If so , tell him Charlie Knight says "Hi". Largo, I Googled "Buffalo Tiger" then went to "Images" , (sometimes you can find interesting stuff doing that), at any rate...I ran out of time and there are a lot of pages to look through, you may find what you're looking for there but I would dare say that it will take some serious effort. Charlie

LARGO		23-Feb-2009 22:53
THANKS MIAMI R.R.........WHITEBELT ..THIS WAS DONE IN '73....DO THEY HAVE A TRIBAL COUNCIL HALL/MUSEUM..CANNOT REMEMBER?...35 YEARS IS A LOT OF GATORS IN THE SAWGRASS...PERHAPS HE KEPT IT FOR HIMSELF??...HE WAS WEARING A BEAUTIFUL PIECED TRADITIONAL JACKET..AND HAD A THUNDERBIRD TURQUOISE & SILVER BOLO AROUND HIS NECK...IT WAS FROM THE WAIST UP..18"X24" I BELIEVE...AGAIN THANKS.......LARGO

whitebelt		23-Feb-2009 16:08
I have vague memories of a painting of Buffalo Tiger. It would have been at the restaurant on the Trail back in the 60's-70's. Was it of him in tribal dress?

whitebelt		23-Feb-2009 16:05
Steve Tiger of Tiger Tiger died back in 2006. I went through 7th grade with him at Allapattah Jr, High. He was very personable, intelligent, and driven even back then. He also had 6 fingers. I am not surprised he achieved success. Like most of us at this age, he was a lot thinner back then than later years.

Miami River Rat		23-Feb-2009 14:27
Ok, Largo: I didn't find anybody that remembers the painting, though it well could be hanging on a wall out near or on the Rez on Tamiami Trail. If the restaurant there is still open, that would be a good place to start looking. Last news of Buffalo Tiger, he was living in west Dade, somewhere in the Kendall area. That info is couple of years old. The band Tiger Tiger has a website. As Charles Knight mentioned, Buffalo Tiger's two sons are in that band. Your best bet to get more info would be to contact them through the website. Good hunting!

LARGO		23-Feb-2009 11:59
THANKS 'MIAMI R R"....I KNEW ABOUT THE 'CHAIRPERSON' TITLE ....GOT YOUR ATTENTION EH?...THANKS FOR YOUR INTEREST & EFFORTS........LARGO

Miami River Rat		23-Feb-2009 01:21
Largo: I'll check and see what I can find out about your about your painting. Give me a day or two. For general info "Chief" is not a term used by the Miccosukee or Seminole tribes. They have always had a tribal council and in modern times that council elects a chairperson, but there has never been a "Chief". Sometimes white promoters called one indian or another a chief to sell tickets to various events but it wasn't a real title.

LARGO		23-Feb-2009 01:05
MIAMI RIVER RAT..SPEAKING OF CHIEF WILLIAM BUFFALO TIGER...MAYBE EITHER YOU OR CHARLES KNIGHT CAN TELL ME HOW I WOULD FIND OUT IF MR TIGER...WHO WOULD BE ABOUT 88 YEARS YOUNG....AND HOW WOULD I CONTACT HIM?? IN 1973 A LAWYER FRIEND OF MINE WAS WORKING IN THE OFFICES OF THE MICCOUSUKEE TRIBE. SHE INTRODUCED ME TO MR. TIGER BECAUSE HE WAS LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO DO A PORTRAIT OF HIM...AND THAT IS WHAT I DO...ANYWAY I HAVE A PHOTO OF HE AND I AND MY 7 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER...I WAS ABOUT 5 M0NTHS PREGNANT WITH MY YOUNGEST AT THE TIME. I TOOK SEVERAL EXAMPLES OF MY WORK AND MY PORTFOLIO..AND RECEIVED THE COMMISSION...FOR ME IT WAS A HISTORIC, EXCITING DAY...AND I WAS SO HAPPY THAT MY OLDEST CHILD REMEMBERS THE WHOLE PROCESS. HE WAS A REAL GENTLEMAN...AND TOOK US ON A TOUR OF THE VILLAGE WHERE THE MICCOUSUKI'S PEOPLE LIVED AND WORKED. SOME OF THE WOMEN WERE STILL USING FOOTPUMP SINGER SEWING MACHINES TO MAKE THE BEAUTIFUL MULTICOLORED FABRICS THAT WERE TRANSFORMED INTO JACKETS, SKIRTS, APRONS ETC. I GUESS I JUST WONDERED WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO THAT PORTRAIT THAT I DID 35 YEARS AGO...ANY IDEAS ON HOW TO FIND OUT???...MY LAST NAME WAS (BARRIGAR) AT THE TIME...JUST CURIOUS.....LARGO

Arizona Al		22-Feb-2009 15:30
Charles/Miami River Rat: Sorry for the misuse of the word "reservation". It was not on the reservation that I saw Mike Osceola wrestle alligators it was at the camp on the Tamiami Trail. This was most likely 1960 or 1961. Then again, my memory and recall of facts is somewhat obfuscated due to the passage of almost 50 years and a lot of substance "experimentation" and alcohol consumption in my earlier lifetime. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and cleaning out the cobwebs from his cerebral cortex in Phoenix, Arizona

Charles Knight		22-Feb-2009 15:10
Yeah...Big time, (laughing) ! That's why I tend bar today hehe!

Miami River Rat		22-Feb-2009 14:09
I remember Mike Osceola's camp well. It was the first one on the Trail west of Miami. They sold a lot of bait and beer there, back in the day. Normally, if you were tall enough to reach the counter with your 40 cents, you could buy a beer. Age didn't seem to be a consideration. At least I never had a problem getting beer there, though that could have been because they knew me and my family. It always struck me as odd that Indians were selling alcoholic beverages. One of my great-uncles was sent to Raiford prison back in the 1930's for the crime of "Selling Whiskey to Indians." I still have his arrest warrant, stashed in a box with other "family heirlooms". Maybe the fact that he was also making the whiskey had something to do with the severity of his punishment? I'm guessing that Arizona Al saw Mike Osceola 'gator wrestling at that village, rather than on the reservation. Somebody was doing the gator wrestling thing there. After all these years, I don't remember exactly who it was. Charles, I never saw the Tiger-Tiger band. My sister did, and she said they could rock it. I didn't know you had been a big-time rocker!

Charles Knight		22-Feb-2009 01:23
Arizona Al, I think you may be confusing things...Mike and Anne Osceola were good friends of my dad, that's why my (younger) sister and I were baby sat at the Village so often. The Last time I saw Mike was in '89 in Merrit Island, he had remarried and relocated there. Mike Jr. is still there although I haven't seen him in quite some time. Hey River Rat! I used to play in a band in the early seventies and we would often play in the same places as Tiger Tiger (Buffalo's son's, or so I'm told). They now promote the Micc. festival. Last time we gigged together was '76? At St. Peter's Gate in north Miami Beach on163rd St. I believe it was known as the "Image" before that, it was owned by Mike Pinera of the Blues Image (Ride Captain Ride) and Iron Butterfly fame.

charlis		21-Feb-2009 21:33
JEFF.... "fatiqued old self"??? I am older than you! I could not believe that Jay (rick) thought Kope's first name was George when I was in the live chat last week. I can not wait to read Ken's book... hope he gives us a discount for helping in his research, or at least a credit. Try to stay healthy... I plan on being down that way this summer for Evie's and my 60th birthday celabration swim with the dolphins. I'll email you when I know the date.

Leighton		21-Feb-2009 18:17
Actually, there weren't any details regarding my question, do I'll keep researching.

Arizona Al		21-Feb-2009 15:15
Miami River Rat/Guest: While I was at Miami Military Academy 1960-1962 I became friends wih a fellow cadet named Mike Kowaleski (he died in a drug deal gun battle with police in the early 1970s), Mike was friends with Mike Osceola and he took me to watch him wrestle alligators several times at the reservation. I remember Mike Ocseola as a fairly large man who was always very courteous and respectfull of two 15 year old bad ass wannabees. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Miami River Rat		21-Feb-2009 14:18
Guest, when you write of the Miccosukee Indian "Billy Buffalo" I think you must be referring to Buffalo Tiger. He was quite an entrepreneur, and was a leader for the Indians as the tourist-trade and Indian attraction business changed from the hands of white people into Indian control in the 1960's. Buffalo Tiger was responsible for getting the tourist stop/restaurant business started that's just this side of 40-mile bend on the Tamiami Trail. He would have known Senator Smathers. As to Indian stories, any happy stories I could tell would have to come from my very young years, or from repeating tales my grandpa and the older indians told to me. Tales of those I grew up with would be a stream of alcohol and drug problems, suicides and automobile tragedies. All that casino money doled out to individuals every year leaves no incentive to work or study. Too much time on one's hands and little to do except buy high-rise trucks and ride the road while drinking/drugging. "Ojus Wyoming" was the indian term used for "drunk" or literally translated, "big whiskey". Sad, but so many of my indian contemporaries have died from the various effects of "Ojus Wyoming".

Jeff		20-Feb-2009 23:42
Kent, Leighton... Charlis saved my fatigued old self from a lot of research, etc. by replying before I did...LOL! As for using the name of a group when performing- sometimes performers acquire the rights to use the name from the former members or their heirs - other times they use a name without permission (ie: The Shangri-Las)... The Weiss sisters sued to keep the copycat groups from trading on their group name and success! However, there is a bit of logic to this... There was a 40's group called The Kings Men and the 60's band of the same/similar name. There was also a 40's version of quite a few 50's group names - but part of the rquation is how famous the previous (or latter) group was. Now, about using the name in a story... it all depend on how you depict them. If you're telling a story in a time-reference, be careful to note at the outset that any references you make to actual people is purely in a fictional context, or there could be trouble! Why not change the Vagabonds to "The Vagabond Lovers", "The Vagues" or "The Valkeries"?

charlis		20-Feb-2009 23:08
kent... this website will help you with the Vagabonds... the song was called "Salt"... http://www.emusic.com/album/The-Vagabonds-The-Vagabonds-MP3-Download/10601852.html

charlis		20-Feb-2009 22:59
kent... as to Ertha on the Beach... if she was allowed there, it would have been the club I mentioned. Just look up the club I mentioned on Google. I'll see if I can find the lyrics to the "Salt" song. As to Springfield... I have an older half brother that has lived there for years... Russell Ray Puckett. I only met him when we were in our 30's and lost touch with him years ago. He has a son of the same name. Cuban bands in the area in the 50's... an old boyfriend's mother performed with a famous band but darned if I can remember her name or the band's name... and they were a famous band... even featured in a film. If I remember, I'll let you know.

charlis		20-Feb-2009 22:33
lei... I remember the stroy about the guy and the plane... can't remember when but I think I was still living there so it would be in the early 70's

Guest		20-Feb-2009 17:52
Kent here: sorry, I can't shut up. Here's a quickie (since I was just writing about it): I wonder if anyone was ever nuts enough to ride the undertows, technically rip currents. I got caught in one once, while diving for sand dollars, and thought it was pretty neat to be speeding along like that, until I realized I was caught in it. !! I felt it 'bending' and whip-stroked myself away from the bend (I had flippers on but it was stronger, or I was panicked), and broke out of it. I then lied for the most of the rest of my life and said "we used to ride the undertows," etc. I wonder if any of you have had near-drowning experiences like that. Those waters off Miami Beach, from Bal Harbor down to South Beach, were really rich and varied and capricious, endlessly fascinating to this kid. And you?

Guest		20-Feb-2009 15:33
Dear Jeff and Charlis... Kent here, thanking you for the info, and memories, below. I knew I had that name right--the Vagabonds, and I remembered Biscayne Blvd. Do you, Jeff, remember the song "Have We got Salt"? They'd stop playing and huff out in throaty whisper: 'Have we got salt' It was comic. Have wondered about the words (wonder how I got in to see them? maybe I heard the record), remember their picture on a poster. // Charlis, how about your having lived near Springfield, Oh. I teach at Wittenberg. /// Jeff, there's a poem that might grab you..by James Dickey (who wrote the novel of Deliverance), about a stewardess that falls out of a plane, and into a car, I think. Can't quite remember the title , but google would. I mention just because you had that experience in the 70s...which I vaguely remember, tho I no longer lived there then...off to grad school and 1st marriage, etc. /// Do you all remember Ertha Kitt singing on the Beach? /// And, what about the Kazbar, gay bar in south beach? Shudder to say, I think it was near the hotel that Perry and Dick stayed in, after they'd killed the Clutter family, in Holcomb (sp?) Ks. ... 'In Cold Blood'. /// Did either of you know the high profile attorney that just died, was on front of Herald , I think, and a special in the Miami SOCIAL, named Milton Ferrell? He was my 9th grade student in prepschool, in NC. Asbestos exposure, died at 57 I think. /// Let me ask: do you think the current Vagabonds, or any associated with the 1950s quartet, would object to my using them in a novel... it's just 'local color' as I see it, but, it is people. And, I have to fudge and put a Cuban singer among them, as my Cuban maid is going to audition with them, because she sings like Celia Cruz. i Azucar! (anyone remember that?) Or, does anyone remember a Cuban group, in Miami or M.B., in the mid 1950s, that I could borrow on? It's all fiction, but, like a coral atoll, fiction is built up of oodles of dead animalicules. /// I wonder how the current Vagabonds are able to appropriate the 1950s' group's name? I googled Vagabonds, and found them, and probably some Beachcombers...and that's how I wound up here. /// Speaking of beachcombers...I remember helping one collect fish after a hurricane...you could tell how long they'd been dead by their eyes, he said...and, indeed, there were degrees of cloudiness. But my question: what do we know about those "spoil islands"...do they really come and go, with the big storms? They are so dense, with pine and scrub, and, I remember saw grass or something, so thick that you had to tunnel through it...on the uninhabited island over near McArthur Cway and the Miami side. There's one there now, but I think there were two or three. They're not on the old maps, that I have, anyway. /// River Rat...! I envy, and ID with, your river boat experience, and the Indian connection. I got to know Billy Buffalo, chief, a little, about 10 years ago. The Micasukee (lord, the sp!)... he had know Senator Smathers, and worked with, and I grew up a couple of blocks from that family...played with Samthers' sons till around age 6 or 7. But, have been interested in those tribes. The Mic.s, and Seminoles of course. Tell us some Indian stories? I had a Blackfoot camp counselor, at Camp Cloudmount in Tennessee (connected with the Miami Country Day School, still thriving in n. Miami), who was an amazing fellow. Gave me that first love of the woods and nature. Charlie Edwards, g'bless him, and i presume, his memory. Enough...thanks you all, if you stuck it out this far. Best, and fond feelings, Kent (M.B., 1941 to 1960; N.Kendall Dr., 1960 - probly late 70s, when the mom sold the house) Miss Cushman School, 1946 about, to 48 or 49, and MCDS (Country Day, 3rd thru 8th)....if anyone out there crosses those paths). K.

Leighton		20-Feb-2009 07:38
Jeff, In the youngster room, I brought up a question, that you may be able to answer. In the early 70s, I distinctly remember an incident, where a guy crawled into the landing gear section of a plane, and after it took off from Miami, he fell out, and somebody managed to grab a photo of the actual fall. Morbid, but I remember how upset I was as a kid. The photo was on the front page of the Herald. Apparently the guy landed in a street. Normally, this situation arises when people attempt to get INTO the US. But in this case, I believe the guy was mentally unstable. (I also remember the Flight 401 crash - I woke up early that Sat. morning to watch cartoons, and I ran to wake up my parents, to tell them what had happened.) Glad to hear you're doing fine. I made the mistake of thinking a minor health incident, was major, five years ago...the tests showed NOTHING, but because I had them done, I found myself on high risk insurance. (I had just moved into self-employment, and my job coverage was ending.) I agree with you - don't discuss health problems in here, or anywhere else. Leave it to the doctors, and your own common sense.

Jeff		20-Feb-2009 05:25
Charlis... I went to school with Scott Jay. He's an attorney, and very involved with the Beach High Alumni Association. As for me, I avoid Beach High like the plague. Regrettably, I don't have the deep roots or wonderful high school school memories others who grew up in South Florida have. My cherished school friends are some folks I've located from my childhood in Brooklyn, NY whom I've reconnected with over the past few years. As for my health, all tests I've taken are [thankfully] negative, but I still need to find out why I've had three fainting spells over the pastg (almost) two years and a recent dizzy spell... It's cost me a bundle and [for all intents and purposes] I'm broker than broke... but I guess it's better to be broke and healthy than rich and sickly... I really didn't want tol go into that here because: 1.) I'm not as active a participant and I used to be, and I hate to feel like I've "stiffed" anyone if I don't reply in a timely manner, and... 2.) Folks mean well and will probbaly offer 101 varying opinions on what's wrong with me and what might cure it... I'm a bit of a hypochondriac [in the sense of worrying] and I've finally get myself to calmly accept things - I don't want the strees of thinking "Hey, it could be THAT problem! Better see ANOTHER doctor"... Truthfully - I can't afford the luxury of such paranoia... LOL!

charlis		19-Feb-2009 23:10
oh, jeff... the guy "running the site" you might know... R (richard) Jay Scott.

charlis		19-Feb-2009 23:07
jeff... thanks for clarifying the Vagabonds issue... the group I worked with were not old enough to be the originals... How are you feeling? New Beach Hi alumni site is interesting... have you been to it? Free use for a few weeks then it will cost to be a member and use the site... AND... for a lot of money you can be a live time member!

charlis		19-Feb-2009 22:56
Jeff... Peppy Fields definately performed at the hotel on the NE corner of Collins and 41st St in the 60's... She may have been at other hotels, but when I went to see her, with her brother and my parents, many times at the hotel I mentioned.

Jeff		19-Feb-2009 01:49
The Vagabonds (the 1940's-50's entertainers, NOT Jimmy James and the Vagabonds from the 1960's) had their own night club on Biscayne Boulevard not too far from the Clover Club. They were managed by the late Frank Linale who later was partners in Ben-Scott Recording Studios with Murray Woroner. After Murray died, Frank bought out his widow and ran the studio as Linale Sound Studios until his own passing. (He was a friend of mine.) The Vagabonds were a quartet of Italian-American singers. Thyere is a tribute site to them at www.parsec-santa.com/vagabonds/ which will give you plenty of information on them. They even had an LP on the RKO label in the 50's... I believe Peppy Fields used to broadcast her radio show from the Sea Isle Hotel on 30th and Collins... Mee West may have performed either at Copa City or the Beachcomber - both on Dade Boulevard just West of Alton Road...

charlis		18-Feb-2009 23:58
Vagabonds... there was a band called that who performed at the Martha Raye 5 o'clock club on the beach at 22nd St and Collins in the mid 50's.... but I also worked with a band of the same name in the late 60's.

charlis		18-Feb-2009 23:46
don.. sorry about the multi post... nothing I did... I clicked add comment only one time... ;-) No error messages.

charlis		18-Feb-2009 23:33
Don and Ken... Mae West appeared at the MB Supper Club. One source says at the Cocoanut Playhouse in 1960... in Miami Beach! Obviously has wrong info on that site. I seem to remember that Mae also appeared at a club in a hotel at the beach side end of 41st st where Peppy Fields was a regular. Her, Peppy's, brother taught me how to play the piano when I was very young... Irving Fields... when I lived in OH... near Springfield, at a restaurant called Kinkles.

charlis		18-Feb-2009 23:10
Don and Ken... Mae West appeared at the MB Supper Club. One source says at the Cocoanut Playhouse in 1960... in Miami Beach! Obviously has wrong info on that site. I seem to remember that Mae also appeared at a club in a hotel at the beach side end of 41st st where Peppy Fields was a regular. Her, Peppy's, brother taught me how to play the piano when I was very young... Irving Fields... when I lived in OH... near Springfield, at a restaurant called Kinkles.

Don Boyd		18-Feb-2009 18:27
I received an interesting e-mail from a gent named Kent Dixon, who is asking several questions: 1. Can anyone remember the singing group in Miami called the Vagabonds or Beachcombers or some similar name whose signature song was "Have We Got Salt"? It was in the late 40s, early 50s, and they may go back to the 30s. 2. What was the name of the club on the beach where Mae West performed? They might have sung with her once. My parents loved them. 3. Does anyone know the sign on date for WINZ - he suspects that it was in the 1940's. He goes on to state: "Stumbled on your amazing website.... gosh oh golly. I too went off that Deauville tower... lost my bathing suit once! (and I'd jumped, not dived). Remember that a kid was sucked into their giant drain and washed out into the ocean? Can't remember if he made it or not. I'm writing a novel, 1953..54 Miami and Miami Beach mostly, and Havana. Was just down there researching. I lived on Sunset Islands. How about Sunset Islands in the 1920s...when just built by Lynch. $12,500 and $15,000 depending on waterfront or not. My house is there! 2277 Sunset Drive, SSI 3. I used to watch the tarpon swim in and out of the shadows of that south pier, the north side.... gigantic tarpon, at night. They were feeding. 5 or 6 feet long if an inch. Scared the daylights out of me. A thrill, too. Talked to the fishermen a lot. Talked to the man, a negro, who said he'd taken care of the 1920s elephant, Rosey? Ruby? He was black, shouldn't have been on the Beach at night...I asked him about this. He didn't seem to care, and he lived ON the Beach. A Jewish support group met on that pier, on Thursday nights I think ... all or most of them holocaust survivors. I'd sneak into a back row, metal fold up chairs, and listen. I thought they were talking Russian and that it was a convention of Russian spies! (It was Yiddish or Polish or Hungarian or what have you.) They would roll up a sweater sleeve every now and then...I thought shaking a fist. They were showing their camp # tattoo. I couldn't tell my parents -- I was maybe 10, in maybe 1951? --about these spies because I'd sneaked out of the house and ridden my bike, all the way from Sunset #3 to tip of south Beach. I believe, unless I heard stories of this and then re-conceived it to include me, that in late 1940s (I was born in '41, at St. Francis), there was a ...what to call them? a huge concrete 'jack'.... off my great uncle's house on 85th Street and the beach (now a park), about 50 yards out. Coast Guard (?) had deposited these jacks there to protect against landing boats. My uncle had a confirmed sighting of German U-boat, off his house there. I used to spear fish around this thing, with Hawaiian sling. Did I make that up? Swear I remember it, but nobody else seems to know about these "giant jacks" as we called them. My parents and grandmothers and great uncle and so on, all lived there in the 1930s. When there were still Fla crocodiles in Crocodile Pond in Miami Beach. I scouted all of Biscayne bay in a stupid little pram, with 3 hp motor on it. (How could my parents have let me do that??) All those spoil islands, where, on occasion, squatters would live. I ran into one once." Kent Dixon now lives in Springfield, Ohio, where he's taught literature and creative writing at Wittenberg University since 1980. He lived on Sunset Island #3 from 1941 to 1960, and then on Hammock Lake 2, on North Kendall Drive. Please respond if you know the answers to his above questions. Thank you. Don

Don Boyd		18-Feb-2009 17:59
New photos added: Drew Mosher contributed several late 1910's images of his grandfather Joseph George Carpenter standing with a Curtiss Jenny at Glenn Curtiss Field (later Miami Municipal Airport) - one image up so far in the Curtiss Field sub-gallery of the Aviation gallery. Joseph Amanzio contributed six great early 1960's images of his parents' Sorrento Restaurant on SW 8th Street (restaurants gallery). Don

Pokey		18-Feb-2009 12:59
Jo-Anne K I went to the Four Corners once in 1975, on my way to Flagstaff. I remember it as an parking lot in the middle of the desert area with about 5 or 6 old vehicles setting around with trinkets on the hoods for sale, and a small sign, that was hard to find, that identified the Four Corners. I did enjoy Durango and all the area around there, it is real pretty out there. take care Pokey

Guest		18-Feb-2009 11:54
What does "And, as mentioned before, if not a white or black AMERICAN... you do not count in Dade County." mean?

charlis		17-Feb-2009 22:53
Other CharliE... My hubby and his bosses bought a company up here that dealt with Mobile home finance. They were commuting but one weekend my hubby asked me to come up here to Brandon (outside of Tampa). I fell in love witht the place... still a rural area. I convinced the "partners" that this was the place for the business... close up and personal with people wanting to finance mobile homes. We moved up here, and within a year the partners moved up. That was 1974. Reminded me of home in OH. We bought a home in 1976. Imagine going out into your back yard and see cows, gators, birds, 'coons, 'possums, etc. It was great for my daughter. Imagine seeing the big cranes walking down your street. Then development took over... All the animals disappeared. When we moved here the population of several towns around the Brandon area, and including Brandon, did not hit 100K... now, Brandon alone is over 100K! So, now I live in a condo/apartment complex with two lakes... with the gators, birds, etc., no cows... in the middle of the city. And, as mentioned before, if not a white or black AMERICAN... you do not count in Dade County. And, if I hadn't moved from Miami... how would I have met those distant relatives of yours that live up here?

charlis		17-Feb-2009 22:37
jo... the names do not sound familiar to me.

Jackie		17-Feb-2009 17:49
Here's my story...My family came to Miami in 1945 from Indiana when I was 6 to join my mother's family who had moved here in the mid '30s. They owned Dille Cottages on Tamiami Trail at Sylvania Blvd. My parents took it over and ran it until 1955 when we moved to Miller Dr. I attended Coral Gables Elem, Ponce de Leon Jr, Coral Gables High , and UF. Taught 1 year at Miami Central, then my husband's work took us to Palm Beach County, where we lived for more than 40 years. At first it was much like the Miami I had known as a child, but , little by little, developers took over, and it was more and more like the Miami we see when we visit. Retirement, high taxes and insurance made us leave two years ago , and family lured us to Canton, GA.

Charles Knight		17-Feb-2009 14:42
Hi Rat...I knew that Village well as a small child, we stayed at the Seminole Village on the Trail and 125th Ave. Mike and Ann Osceola ran it, they also had a bar and gift shop there, My younger sister Starr and I spent many a weekend there either in the Osceola house or in a Chickee. In the village there was a worm farm (bait) with hundreds of rabbits in cages over the worm beds, in the back of the village there was a canal with a hand made bridge spanning it, the canal was really a long ,narrow, pond dug to look like a river. It was stocked with Gators for the shows. I loved that place! I went back into the woods where it was in the mid eighties and a lot of the old village was still there but the Brazilian Pepper had completely overrun it, even the pond was full of the stuff! Evidently no one knew it was there because it was obvious that no one had been there in a LONG time...It is all urban sprawl now, I didn't even recognize the area the last time I visited it! Largo, I looked in the photo section and saw your photo, it's my opinion that he was the one that should have felt enamoured! You're a Hottie! Charlie

Jo-Anne K		17-Feb-2009 14:39
Hi Pokey.....yeah I like it here near the "four corners" not as a permanent home, I'm here until 3/2010 for sure but it looks more like 2012, I don't know if I can like it here for that long. Hey charlis......I think I asked this once before, but did you know a Debra Lane or and Abby Cheraton at Nautilus or Beach?

Charles Knight		17-Feb-2009 14:26
Hello all, thanks for all the bios! Some good stuff indeed. I was curious as to why people that have such an obvious love of their childhood (and sometimes adult) home would leave what the rest of the nation (and world) calls paradise. It is increasingly clear that sometimes life just intercedes. I chose to leave Miami because the "Gangs" have gotten out of control, and I refuse to raise my youngest in the violent society that urban Miami has become. Satellite Beach (where I now reside) and the Melbourne area remind me in many ways of the Miami that was when I was a youth. It is said that you can't go back, and while that is true...Sometimes if you look around you might find something just as good in the here and now.Charlie

Miami River Rat		17-Feb-2009 01:38
Well, if we're doing full bios: Born Jackson Memorial Hospital in 1942. Third generation of my family to be born in Miami. Lived around the Miami River, between 17th and 28th avenues, most of my young years, though I rambled in rowboats and skiffs from the river's mouth at Biscayne Bay up to the bridge that connected Miami Springs to Hialeah. School at Citrus Grove, Kensington Park Elementary, Saint Michael's and Jr. High at Kinloch. Had an aborted high school career at Southwest, after my mom moved us out to the boonies. (SW 26th st. and 58th ave.) Family had one of those Indian Village/ tourist attractions on the river. I got to know the Indians pretty well, and I spent a lot of my younger years out in the 'glades with my Grandpa, hunting orchids, snakes and other "stuff". He did a little import/export business around Chokoloskee too. Left Miami for the Air Force as soon as I turned 17. Back to Miami, the proud holder of a GED, for two years at Miami-Dade Jr. College. Finished college at Auburn University with a degree in Agriculture and have lived in Alabama since starting at Auburn in 1966. Make it back to Miami once or twice a year when my sister flies in from Oregon. Still have nephews and a couple of cousins in South Florida.

LARGO		17-Feb-2009 00:11
SOOOOOOOOOOOO...SIR KNIGHT...DO THE FOLKS ON THIS SIGHT GIVE UP THEIR INFO FREELY...'CAUSE YA WERE CURIOUS??....HOPE YUR TAKIN NOTES...........LADY LARGO

charlis		16-Feb-2009 23:14
ok... my brief bio... army brat born in Paris France. Moved to US when I was 9 months old (with a 6 month lay over in NYC) to OH. Shanghaied to Miami Beach in '62, went to Nautilus Jr and Beach Hi. Move out of Miami, to Tampa, in 1974. Lot of great memories of life on Miami Beach and of Miami furing the time I lived there. Can't stand the place now.

Pokey		16-Feb-2009 20:36
Jo-Anne K Colorado is beautiful, especially on the westen side, I lived in Colorado Springs for about 12 years between 1972 - 1992. I traveled all around Colorado while I was out there, camping in my Truck that I got from Luby Chevrolet in Miami, ha ha and exploring alot of old stage coach roads and ghost towns in my jeep. Its a great place to be. take care Pokey

Pokey		16-Feb-2009 20:26
Born in Pa, but moved to Miami (Bell Haven Trailer Park) in 53, worked at Burdines Whrse 66 - 69, attended Broadmoor Elementary, Madison Jr High, and graduated from Miami Central in 68. Joined the military in 69 ( or waited to get drafted ) and stayed for the next 22 years. Spent two tours overseas, was stationed in N.D, Colorado, Fla. and In. where I presently live. Spent many nights at Hialeah and Medley speedways racing karts in the late 50's to early 60's, rode motorcycles and Mustangs in the middle to late 60's and hung out at Crandon Park, Hialeah Lanes, Fun Land, and many drive-in theaters. Great memories. take care Pokey

Jo-Anne K		16-Feb-2009 18:20
Sorry for the double post.......computers are running slow and I got impatient.

Jo-Anne K		16-Feb-2009 14:21
Born in Dania 1954, lived in Hallandale, relocated to NMB where I attended Sabal Palm Elem, JKF Jr. High, Norland Jr. (brief move to NW Miami) lived in NMB across from 163rd St. Shopping Center, surfed Sunny Isles, went to love-ins @ Greynolds Park, graduated from Miami Norland (1970). Was on the Aqua-Chicks FL State Champion AAU syncronized swim team in '66. Lived in So FL until '83 when I moved my sons and I to NC. My job takes me all over the country and at present I reside in Durango, CO.

LARGO		16-Feb-2009 02:27
GREAT TO HEAR FROM YA JEFF..."THE SHADOW KNOWS".....AND KNOW THE SHADOW IS A- OK........LARGO

Jeff		16-Feb-2009 00:36
Hi, everyone... I'm popping in for a moment to finally make a contribution, then I'm off again for a spell... "Arthur and Company" was hosted by Jack Metzger - the one-and-the-same Captain Jack of "Banjo Billy's Funboat" fame! Since everyone's doing bios for new posters, here's mine: Born in Brooklyn, NY. Relocated to Miami Beach in late 1963 when my dad retired. Graduated from Beach High [barely] in 1970. Relocated permanently to North Miami in 1978. Have had a lot of things going on lately, including some medical tests (so far, all OK!)... Keeping busy with that, struggling through this miserable economy and still trying to crank out some computer type fonts to make a miniscule living. Self-proclaimed "Oldies" music trivia and Miami trivia buff [by no means an expert]. Anyway, my best wishes to all and I'll be checking in from time-to-time!

whitebelt		16-Feb-2009 00:09
It can get hot and muggy in Augusta. Lots of places to fish around there. Used to be some neat bars there. If you see Annie, tell her she got me good.

Miami Girl		15-Feb-2009 23:55
My life in brief: Born a Navy brat, we moved to Cutler Ridge in '54 when my Dad retired early on a medical disability. Graduated from Palmetto in '65 and married an Air Force guy. We lived in KS, OK, AL, Tampa and Germany before he retired. Moved here to Rome, NY from Clarksville, TN in 1998 and can hardly wait to move back south in 2012 when our working years are over and it's time to play and travel even more (if I can hold out that long). It will probably will be to the Augusta, GA area where our son and grandkids are moving to this summer (from England). Anybody out there who can tell us anything about the Augusta area? Can e-mail me directly at: jlawinrome@twcny.rr.com. any information will be very much appreciated. Thanks to all for these old memories of that FUN AND SUN CAPITOL OF THE WORLD..........!

Leighton		15-Feb-2009 23:23
This may be covered elsewhere, but is there any mention of the kids' TV show "Arthur & Company" from the early 70s?? When I returned to Miami to attend UM in 1982, the former host was a professor in the Communications Dept.

Don Boyd		15-Feb-2009 17:39
Jumpin' Jack O'Brien posted a comment under an image athttp://www.pbase.com/image/87328062 in response to reader comments. He's alive and kicking in Cane Ridge, TN, and welcomes e-mails from former viewers. Don

Leighton		15-Feb-2009 05:50
San Antonio, Texas, for 20 years, and can't wait to leave.

Arizona Al		15-Feb-2009 02:05
Ok All Here is a Brief Bio Blog: Born Miami 1945. Raised early on in the South Miami Area. Family bought house in Cutler Ridge circa 1955 and I resided there until 1964 when I joined the U.S. Army. Did a tour in The Nam 1966-1967 103rd Combat Support Prior to the service I attended Miami Military Academy 1960-1962 and Palmetto High 1962-1964. Upon discharge from the service in 1967 I attended Miami Dade Jr. College (1967-1969) when I transferred to North Carolina State University and obtained a Ph.D. in Psychology in1977. Resided in Raleigh, N.C. from 1969 to 1995 when I relocated to Phoenix, Arizona where I currently reside. WHEW! Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		14-Feb-2009 22:45
I now live in Espanola, NM. My father's family moved to Miami in 1922 from Canada. The story was to marry off his sisters. Which they did, but they never got enough money to leave town afterwards. My mother was from north Florida. She met my father during the war in Camp Blanding near Jaxville. I went to Gladeview and Melrose Elementaries, Allapattah Junior High, and Miami Jackson. I have lived next to the Whitebelt Dairy, which was replaced by warehouses and MLK Park, and in NMB, Homestead, Sweetwater, Edgewater, across the canal from Biscayne Park, Pinecrest, west Perrine, and near Dadeland. I have seen carpetbaggers and hucksters from every corner of the universe come to Miami and mess it up. I grew up living on a Monopoly Board, complete with the flat landscape and plastic houses and people and didn't realize what it was until after I left. Left it for good 13 years ago and would not shed a tear if it ceased to exist.

Roberta Perry Hughes		14-Feb-2009 20:06
I live in-the-sticks, but get my mail from a little faht-of-a-town, called Wadley (which I sometimes refer to as "Wobbly") in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) in the state of Georgia. I'm 80 miles from Savannah; 90 or so miles from Augusta; 40 miles from Dublin...& Harlem, Ga., the birthplace of Oliver Hardy, is the next town over from Wrens (Wrens is between me & Augusta). Originally from Southwest Georgia (Morgan, Leary, Arlington, Edison--in Calhoun County); Our family moved to Miami, when I was about 4 1/2 years old, ca. 1952. Lived near Citrus Grove Elementary, where my siblings went to school, prior to moving to S.W. 55th Street. I have roots in Miami, with great- & great-great-grandparents, interred in Cocoplum Cemetery, among other paternal relatives, & my paternal grandfather was a Keep, at the Fowey Rocks Light. (see 1930's Galleries, for his photos, & of the Light). I am on SSD, & husband is retired, from the State of Georgia D.O.T.; he spent early years in Miami Beach, back when it was known as Fulford, so he enjoys seeing the photos on here, too, & reading the memories of many. I don't travel much, anymore, except to go to my sister's, in Ft. Valley. "The Old Gray Mare, she ain't what she used to be." These days, I'm an "Armchair Traveler." Great to hear from you all, & I thank you, for your thoughts of well wishes, & for your prayers. I'm hangin' in there, & doing a lot better than many. Hope & pray that you-all are well & feeling good, & that the weather is kind, wherever you are. Roberta, feeling all warm 'n cozy, from the well wishes from some of the greatest folks I know, in Cyberspace...!! Much love to y'all..!

LARGO		14-Feb-2009 19:42
I NOW CALL THE BEAUTIFUL ANCIENT VILLAGE OF ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA MY HOME...ROBERTA AND SEVERAL OF US HAVE HISTORICAL/HYSTERICAL PHOTOS OF FAMILY ON THE OTHER GALLERIES...ROBERTA'S GRANDFATHER WAS THE LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER @ FOWEY ROCK..THE FIRST I THINK...SHE HAS LOTS OF NEAT PHOTOS...I JUST HAVE ONE IN THE 60'S GALLERY OF ME AND TROY DONAHUE ...THE TEEN HEART THROB...my 15 seconds of bliss........sigh........LARGO

Jackie		14-Feb-2009 13:35
I'm in Cherokee County, Georgia, just north of Atlanta.

Miami River Rat		14-Feb-2009 06:17
I'm in East Central Alabama, (Dadeville) about 60 miles NW of Columbus, Georgia. Post the pics if they suit what you're trying to do, Charlie. If they don't work for you, that's fine too. G'nite all.

Charles Knight		14-Feb-2009 05:59
Justone more tonight , the last I promise! 1- No, it's not to stalk you! 2-Largo, my assumptions have gotten me in trouble here before, lol! (remember the smiley face?) 3-What, if anything...Can we do to get our dear friend home for a visit? Any takers? Email me at kngtrk2@aol.com 4- Is Arizona Al among the living?

Charles Knight		14-Feb-2009 05:45
Oh man...I'm sorry rat! I got the pictures and will post them soon you have my word. So, where are all you folks at? I'm only about three hours from Miami by car (Satellite Beach, 20 Mi. south of Cocoa Beach). Roberta,Charlis, (Lady) Largo, Leighton, Jackie, and Don of course...And all of you other good folks, please take a minute and just type in the city and state for me because I'm REALLY nosey! (ulterior motive???)

Charles Knight		14-Feb-2009 04:58
Thanks for all of the positive input folks, more to come for sure but ...Roberta, are you ok? I've only just become aquainted with you!!! You take care dear and I and mine will surely pray for you good health.

Jackie		14-Feb-2009 02:13
Charlie and Rat... Love your stories. Keep them coming.

Martha		13-Feb-2009 22:59
Biscayne Elementry school was located a 800 77th St in the north end of Miami Beach.

charlis		13-Feb-2009 22:21
Glenn... Biscayne was on Miami Beach? Go to this link and you can post a message to get the info on anything about Beach Schools. You will have to join... it's free until the end of March. they also have live chats scheduled where you can ask someone who went to the school. http://www.beachhigh.com/outside_home.asp

LARGO		13-Feb-2009 22:06
NOW!!!! WE'RE TALKIN'...NOW IT IS GETTING INTERESTING AGAIN...SO GOOD TO HEAR THE RICH TALES OF THE SWAMP GATOR BOYS GOING DOWN MEMORY LANE..LOVE IT!!!.....ROBERTA...ALWAYS SO REASSURING TO SEE YOUR POSTS...I PRAY THAT YOUR HEALTH IMPROVES AS QUICKLY AS THE WARMER DAYS OF SPRING APPROACH......KEEP IT COMIN' ALL................LARGO

Glenn		13-Feb-2009 17:38
Hi. I'm seeking some advice. I went to Biscayne Elementary in the 1950's and would like to get a list of who was in the class, or at least some people. I've tried Facebook, Classmates.com and Reunion.com. I contacted the school and the school district. So far no luck. Am I missing a place to check? Thanks for your brainpower.

Miami River Rat		13-Feb-2009 14:45
Charlie: I've emailed the photos to kngtrk2@aol.com. Watch your spam-catcher. Three attachments, title "Everglades pics". Two at Monroe Station and one of an air plant in bloom near Pinecrest. My great-uncle worked on the dredge boat that dug the Trail canal. He had a pet bobcat. It was caught out there as a kitten and raised on the dredge boat. Rat

Roberta Perry Hughes		13-Feb-2009 12:50
Charlie...WOW...! What a rich history you are a part of...! Fantastic website...! Just wish I weren't on dial-up, as I cannot play the videos...! Dad-nab-it..!! What a very colorful life you & your family have lived...! I very pleased to meet ya!! Oh, how I wish I were able to make in down there, & to Miami, just once more, before I bid this world good-bye. I have been so very homesick, for "Our Town," that it is a constant, dull ache, in my heart of hearts...! Thanks, everyone, for all of the many memories here, & for the fantastic photos, in The Galleries, that all help to sustain me. It's all like a shot-in-the-arm, to help promote healing for me. Don, I love you to pieces, for this amazing Site, & I thank you, for the many many hours I know that you spend, working on this Site, for our enjoyment, long into the wee hours of the morning...(& Poker After Dark). Thank you, so very much. Pals on here, LARGO, Charlis, Miami Girl, Jeff, Alan, Charlie, Leighton...just too numerous to name you all...but you're terrific folks, & I do so love to read your posts on here. I thank you, one & all. Roberta, up all night, again, & haunting OldMiamiMemories, as usual.

Charles Knight		13-Feb-2009 06:50
Shark Valley...We used to walk and hunt for arrowheads but only surface finds, Never desecrate! Few people realize that it has several mounds. I do miss the night stars and the lack of "light pollution"...Remembering standing in the road at night in the rain observing the stars! Charlie.

Charles Knight		13-Feb-2009 05:52
Hi Rat, thanks for the blurb...Glad you found me and enjoyed what you saw, I'd like very much to see the photo in question. Have you scanned it? If so would you be willing to share it? I'd like to put it on the site. I have recently touched base with a lot of long lost family and will have tons of pics up soon. Oh, and...Call me Charlie (Charles is too damned formal!) kngtrk2@aol.com

Miami River Rat		13-Feb-2009 04:08
I went and spent some time on Charles Knight's website. (He linked to it below) It's http://www.myspace.com/gatorhooklodge You've got some cool stuff there, Charles. Funny, last trip out I got a picture of me standing in front of Monroe Station, close up enough so the "Closed by the U.S. Government" sign is clearly visible. Sad to see that. I'll go back to the site and read some more too. You can't take it all in in just one visit! That late-in-life pic of your brother Jack was an eye opener for me. I remember him the way he looked in about 1958. I guess everybody gets older but me. (I wish) Later, All.

Parks		13-Feb-2009 02:37
Hi Kelly, welcome to the group. Thanks for the tip on the Shark Valley night ride. It sounds like fun. Did you have to shoo gators off the road? Jeff is our North Miami expert, he may have info on the barber shop. Unfortunately he's keeping a low profile these days but he may check in.

charlis		12-Feb-2009 22:23
Thanks for the review on King. I got "burned out" years ago as all the books started reading the same. I'll check this new one out... it has gotten good reviews.

Kelly M. Jones		12-Feb-2009 04:18
Hello everyone, I am trying to find out if anyone has any information about Spinelli's Barber shop in N. Miami. It was popular in the 60's through the 80's catering to stars and athletes, even Joe Namath. The owner was like a father to my husband when he was a kid and we are trying to track one of the Spinelli's down. Please contact me if you have any info. Off the subject, as a native miamian, I experienced something that I never knew about before. Last night I went on a moonlight bike ride in Shark Valley. I encourage everyone to go see the everglades as never before especially with this weather. Kelly Jones kjones71@bellsouth.net

Charles Knight		12-Feb-2009 03:24
Largo...You have my deepest apologies, tis difficult indeed to discern the difference by prose alone! And Roberta, no problem there now is there? LOL!

LARGO		12-Feb-2009 01:59
THANKS FOR THE GENDER RESCUE ROBERTA...FELT LIKE 'FRIAR TUCK' THERE FOR A FLASH...I THINK... 'SIR KNIGHT' THAT MY ALL CAPS APPROACH TO THE COMMUNICATION HERE ON THIS SITE..CAN... OR MAY LEAD THE CASUAL READER TOWARDS ANDROGYNOUS CONFUSION TOWARDS MOI...I ASSURE YOU, I AM ALL GALSES...... LARGO

Leighton		12-Feb-2009 00:50
Leighton is my first name. Definitely male in that context. I've been posting for almost two years - dropped the last name a long time ago.

Roberta Perry Hughes		12-Feb-2009 00:27
Howdy, Leighton...! Actually, last names do not denote gender, do they? As with Charles's "Brother" Largo, it happened to me, also, to assign an incorrect gender to a Poster...(namely, you). 'Tis an honest mistake; not the first; most definitely, not the last. Dr. Ogus...Great to see you again...!! Roberta, chillin' out, in the Deep South, & nostalgically, remembering when Spring meant robins, gorgeous blooms, green grass, & gentle rains...instead of the deadly tornados that begin to form, to herald its arrival.

Arizona Al		11-Feb-2009 13:53
Hello All: The reports of my demise are premature and exagerated. I am still alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona watching the cold/stormy weather on the East Coast from afar. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Leighton		11-Feb-2009 12:41
And I'm the one who typed that.

Guest		11-Feb-2009 12:40
Not sure what that meant, but unusual names can be difficult for some folks.

Roberta Perry Hughes		11-Feb-2009 05:45
"Brother" Largo...?? HAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!! HAAAAAAAAAAA!! HAAAAAAAAA!!! Charles, Sir Knight...Largo am a galses...!! What fun...! Don't feel bad...!! I erroneously once thought Leighton was a lady...!! (tee hee). Roberta...Up late, as usual, & praying for the folks in Australia. Be well, y'all.

Charles Knight		11-Feb-2009 04:34
P.S. Loved Duma Key!

Charles Knight		11-Feb-2009 04:32
AAH brother Largo, good to know you're still with us...Long time no hear from...I'm spending a little time in the "under sixty" room (young pups) where we refrain from such blistering topics as Guava jelly and Brrr, cold weather. All kidding aside though, check out www.myspace.com/Gator Hook Lodge on the Loop road I've recently built a new page all about "My Everglades", some have found it interesting. CK

LARGO		10-Feb-2009 22:52
DAMN...I DID NOT GET TO EVEN PUT MY NAME ON THIS LAST POST.....I AM NO GUEST....I AM .............LARGO

Guest		10-Feb-2009 22:50
GADS..........THIS SITE HAS GONE FROM A FOREST OF NEWSYNESS TO A DESERT..enter a very TINY SADLY NOTE.....HEY....ROBERTA..CHARLIS...AND KNIGHT OF CYBER SPACE ..."JEFF".....WHARS ALL MY CYBER PEEPS??? FYI..whether you care to know or NOT I AM PRESENTLY READING STEVEN KINGS FIRST NOVEL ABOUT FLORIDA...."DUMA KEY" recommend it..highly...SO FAR..'.SHE'(mezis) LOVES IT!!!...FUNKY AS ONLY MR. KING CAN DO...not everyone cares for a literary reference...or recommendations...but OMG I am sure there is a "Guest".out there that would love to ..."SPAR"....ALSO JUST PURCHASED (in book form) A COLLECTION OF BEAUTIFUL IMPRESSIONIST.PAINTINGS BY ONE OF MY MOST FAVORITE FRENCH ARTIST: PIERRE BONNARD, THE LATE STILL LIFES & INTERIORS....SINCE I PAINT A LOT OF INTERIORSCAPES...HE IS A FAVE OF MINE...(I know ...who cares?) WHO GIVES A LA TE DA YOU MIGHT ASK.? .HOWEVER HE IS REALLY NOT FROM OUR BELOVED 'MIAMI'.....BUT I WOULD HAVE LOVED TO HAVE TURNED HIM LOOSE IN 'THE GROVE'...AND OMG VISCAYA..SUCH A LOVELY PLACE WITH A HEAVY EUROPEAN INFLUENCE.......COME ON GUYSES..& GALSES ....LETS GET BACK TO CHATTING AGAIN!!! ...NO WHIMPY CRAP...IF YOU PLEEZ...............MIAMI FOLK ARE RICH IN HISTORY & EXCITING CONVERSATION...THERE ARE TOPICS TO BE SPORTED HERE...I LUV THE LATINOS (PASSION) ...ARE YOU THERE??? HOW MANY OF YOU ARE INSANELY GAME????????..............................LARGO, LARGO, LARGO.....LETS TALK.......BE FORWARNED.....I SHALL EAT YOUR NEGATIVITY WITH ...HEAVY DUTY UTENSILS.............SMILING...ALWAYS SMILING...ARE YA'ALL ???...AGAIN...LARGO.................

Jeff		09-Feb-2009 05:58
Hi to all... Thanks for the kind words, Parks, Charlis, Roberta... I read the posts from time to time but have had "a lot on my plate" at this point in time... Additionally, I've had little to add of any consequence with the various topics that are currently on the site, so I've been keeping a low profile by just reading them... I can't say if or when I'll pop back in, so let me send my best wishes to all and keep those memories coming for others to learn by and appreciate!

Parks		08-Feb-2009 18:54
Hi Rat!, My wife and I just got back from Robert is Here. We loaded up on big beefsteak tomatoes, kumquats, black sapote, canestel and gauva jelly. OMG (as the young folks say) that guava jelly is the best! It has little bits of real guavas in it. Thanks for the tip! Jeff come back we miss you.

charlis		07-Feb-2009 17:48
Jeff... where are you? This question comes from roberta, and yes, me.

Miami River Rat		04-Feb-2009 23:53
Hey Guest: There's an old Bobby Vee song "Please Don't Ask About Barbara". Remember that one? I'll just quote a line from Kipling's poem "The Ladies" and leave it at that: "And I learned about women from her"

Guest		04-Feb-2009 13:51
I want to hear about Barbara! :)

Miami River Rat		04-Feb-2009 13:32
Sofia: Robert is Here has world famous milkshakes. They are all good. Just take your time before you make your selection and be careful or you'll wind up getting two or three to sample the different flavors. Thanks for the tip on the wine, Parks. I have passed that winery on the way to the park but I've never stopped there. The winery now goes on my "to do this trip" list. Charlis speaks of the blimp! There was a time when you could get a ride on that thing for $5. I always wanted to do that, but back when I was a teenager $5 seemed like a lot of money and there were girls I could spend what little I had on, so I never rode the blimp. I now wish I'd used $5 of the money I spent on Barbara for a blimp ride, but that's another story isn't it? See ya'!

Parks		04-Feb-2009 04:29
Hi Rat! Thanks for the tip on Robert is Here guava jelly. I love guava jelly but haven't tried his. I first had guava jelly at Royal Castle. You could get a good breakfast there with fresh orange juice. Sofia, The Mennonites (Knaus Berry Farm) are at 15980 SW 248th Street. Their store is closed on Sunday and you have to get there early on Saturday or they run out of cinnamon buns. There is also a winery in Homestead now. Take the tour and sample the wines. They make wine from local fruit. I really like their lychee wine. Rat- they make guava wine that smells just like fresh guavas. The shop at the Fruit and Spice park also has a bunch of unusual goodies. Before you head south, check out www.redlandriot.com . This web site will give you some great suggestions of places to see in the Redlands and Homestead.

Sofia		04-Feb-2009 02:53
Parks and Miami River Rat -- I've never been to Robert is Here, but your posts have motivated me to pay them a visit, and I think I've talked a couple of friends into taking a field trip to Homestead this weekend for produce. The fantastic Miami/south Florida weather we've been having will make the experience that much better. I remember many years ago there were Mennonites who used to sell their baked goods and milkshakes somewhere in that vicinity. Does anyone know if they still do?

charlis		03-Feb-2009 23:18
Got to relive an old Miami/Miami Beach memory this past week with the Super Bowl being in Tampa... The Goodyear Blimp. I remember the first time I heard a strange noise and looked up to see the Blimp. It passed over our house several times a day. The first time I saw it "fly" over the house was when my mother told me the story of the Hindenburg. She had been having lunch at the Empire State Building and saw the "ship" float by... minutes before it blew up. On the good side... my dad always wanted to "fly" in the Goodyear Blimp as he had flown in a lot of old planes. When he died, the pilot of the blimp took my dad's ashes up and scattered them out in the Atlantic.

charlis		03-Feb-2009 23:08
Talked to a long time friend yesterday... she was born and raised in Miami/Miami Beach. She said that Miami/Miami Beach is horrible and would move if she could. She has new neigbhors, as the old ones moved out and are renting their old, long time homes, to people who are less than desirable neighbors. The old "neighbor is part of the family" is gone.

Miami River Rat		03-Feb-2009 05:01
Parks: My supply of stuff from "Robert Is Here" is running low. I'm down to 1/2 jar of guava jelly and 3/4 jar of mango preserves. That will have to last until May, when my sister is flying in to Miami from Oregon and we'll get our annual dose of Miami. I always go to Robert and stock up. He sells the only guava jelly that tastes like what my grandpa used to make.

Parks		03-Feb-2009 04:55
For all of you former Miamians, now is the time to come back for a visit! Yesterday was beautiful. My wife and I had lunch at historic Shriver's Barbeque in Homestead. We bought wonderful local produce at Robert is Here. We watched the hummingbirds at Castellow Hammock Nature Center, and we ate strawberry ice cream at Burr's Berry Farm. As they used to say in the tourist ads, "Come on down!"

whitebelt		03-Feb-2009 02:04
It has been a rather nice winter here in New Mexico. Expecting to see the hummingbirds before long.

Jo-Anne K		02-Feb-2009 17:13
Don......I had no time to goof off while the boss was gone (damn the the bad luck) I'll try to get that done this week. I agree with Leighton......where is everybody??? It has warmed up here on Colorado, it was 16 degrees on the way into work...and we have an expected high of 38 today. I'm not complaining, other parts of the country have had it really tough.

Leighton		31-Jan-2009 15:26
Apparently, the weather warmed up a bit.

Jo-Anne K		27-Jan-2009 20:19
I told you I was technologically challenged. Did I spell it right this time?

Martha Pierson		25-Jan-2009 06:04
Clifford's is now a discount shoe store.

Julie		24-Jan-2009 22:49
Sorry Don!! I will ask the kids about your Mom teaching at MS Elementary. Thanks for the correction of my memory on the Italian Restaurant. Yes, it was Carino's. How could I forgt that! My youngest son, Joey, dated their daughter!! Wow, how the old brain forgets! My kids are all in their 40's which makes me in my 60's! We have been living in Ft. Myers Beach for 20 years and it really makes my brain work hard to remember back 30-40 years of our life in Miami! Yes, now I remember about the church buying the building where the skating rink was. At that time, we lived on 94th and Club Drive and the kids would walk across the railroad tracks to the skating rink onSat. morning with a little money to skate until noon. They would have been age 10-7-5. Very safe back then! Thanks so much for bringing all of the old memories of Miami back to me.

charlis		24-Jan-2009 21:42
Don... you are correct about Carino's and Cliffords... My FIL did the AC work for Carino's... so, we ate there a lot... there and Gallaghers up the road... a lot of free meals. My dad's favorite place was Clifford's... his name was Clifford and he always got his birthday dinner for free. Your MIL came up here at the wrong time! We just went through the coldest week in years up here! Lows in the 20's and highs in the 50's! Finally got into the 70's today.

Don Boyd		24-Jan-2009 17:31
Hi Julie: that was my wife's mom, not my wife, who taught at MS Elementary way back when; I'm not that old, haha. Her mom just spent a month and a half here warming up and is now in St. Pete for a while before going home to Franklin, TN. My wife says that was Carino's Restaurant across from Clifford's, not Marcella's. And she remembers the skating rink at MS Presbyterian in the mid 60's. She says it was in the building that the church bought from Renuart Lumber Company when they wanted to expand. The church turned the space into a skating rink for a number of years and later converted it into their present pre-school classrooms in the same building. Don

Julie Hutter		24-Jan-2009 16:40
Don - Thanks for your memories of NE Miami. I don't remember your wife's name, but I am going to ask the kids if they remember. I'm sure that Esther had 1 or 2 of them. I'll let you know. Yes, I remember the Biscayne Dog Track. I was the GM of the Holiday Inn at 112 and Biscayne from 1973-1985. The owner of Biscayne Dog Track was a daily customer of our Bar. I think his name was James? Anyway, he was a huge tipper!! A very nice guy and I got to know him. I did know that the Track was demolished, but didn't realize that Barry (college) University had grown that far west. There really wasn't any room anyother direction! I was friends with Sister Jean that was the President at Barry for years (through my Holiday Inn). I know that Mama Jennys moved across the street from their original location. Does anybody remember the original location? The Italian family that owned it? My 2 boys both worked there washing dishes and delivering pizza. The old man was always hollering at the help! However, the food was excellent. Great garlic rolls!! I think better then Mario's on W. Dixie Hwy. Wasn't Marcella's on Biscayne Blvd. across the street from Clifford's Restaurant? Or was that another Italian Restaurant? Do anybody remember the skating rink in Miami Shores on Park Drive and the RR tracks that was owned by the Presbyterian Church? Or the old FBI Building at 36th and Biscayne Blvd.? My husband was a Special Agent there from 1968-1987. He was the "space mgr" for the new FBI building in NMB (NE 2nd Ave. and 169 St.) Julie

Charles Knight		24-Jan-2009 07:04
Roberta...When in the tenth grade I worked downtown for awhile at Richards in the design Dept. building displays for all the stores.

Charles Knight		24-Jan-2009 07:01
Dialing for Dollars (that's all).

Guest		24-Jan-2009 04:45
Mario the Baker...137th St./Marcella's...139th St. - both on W. Dixie Hwy. Mario's is still there.

Ray		24-Jan-2009 01:18
Julie, a couple of your memories are still very much alive and well. I'm a Barry University (not college any more) Grad myself. They went co-ed years ago. Major University in Miami now. If you remember the dog track just west of Barry, it was torn down and now Barry extends all the way to I95. There's a whole section here about Miami Military Academy. Send your family member there for some memories. Mama Jennie's is doing great. Awesome food and service. One of the few places I can actually look forward to the salad part of the meal. It's been remodeled so you might not recognize it at first. And for the still locals, next hurricane or power failure, you can still get a warm meal there. They're one of the very few restaurants to install a full generator that operates everything in a power failure. They put it in before Wilma and I'm willing to make a bet it paid for itself that month. Ray

charlis		22-Jan-2009 22:53
guest... those vegetable and fruit fields are gone for the most part... I have a friend that works for one of the big AG finance companies, and knows that I grew up in S FL... He told me that many of the areas have been sold and are now full of houses. Here in Tampa, famous for strawberries and Ruskin tomatoes.... farm owners are selling off the land. Ruskin tomatoes are now being grown in N. Carolina! As to N Miami memories... my favorite one is the Italian restaurant on W Dixie Hwy and 138th... I want to say Mirabella's... I lived across the street, in West Dixie Towers, and the smell was wonderful! I was pregnant at the time, and they knew that a call from me meant "extra pepperoni and cheese", and very buttery garlic rolls/knots.

Don Boyd		22-Jan-2009 20:38
Jo-Anne K: I thought you disappeared with Santa or something! You can send them as e-mail attachments to my e-mail address or send me an e-mail if they're not scanned already and we'll discuss it. Don

Don Boyd		22-Jan-2009 20:25
Welcome Julie, thank you for posting your memories. Your e-mail address was not shown so I'll answer here. I lived in the NE section from 1951 to 1957, first a block or two east of Biscayne at 86th Street and then on 70th between Miami Avenue and NE 2nd. I went to St. Mary's from 1953 thru 1957 when we moved to Hialeah. I have many memories of the new Biscayne Shopping Plaza, the Little River shopping area, the Farmers Market on Biscayne, the Rosetta and Shores theatres, etc. I remember the Playboy club east of Biscayne in the early 70's - buddies and I would go there after working at Sears Northside until 9:30pm or so and they had great drinks, food and scenery. My wife grew up in Biscayne Park, just north of the Shores. My wife's mom probably taught at least one of your children at Miami Shores Elementary. She taught kindergarten there from 1967 to 1969, was then moved to Drew and Fulford Elementaries when they moved all the white teachers to black schools, and came back to MS Elementary in 1971 where she taught first grade for the next 12 years and then retired. Her name was Esther Criswell. Ring any bells? Don

Guest		22-Jan-2009 17:52
Does anybody have memories of NE Miami (Miami Shores,N.Miami,N.Miami Beach)?We moved our family to NE Miami in 1968 (kids were 6,3,1) Lived in Miami Shores and they were always at the Community Center playing soccer,football,tennis, crafts,etc and the Miami Country Club Pool. They went to Miami Shores Grade School on their bikes. The oldest went to Miami Military Academy and they all graduated from Archbishop Curley on NE 2nd. One from Barry College in Miami Shores. Remember Mama Jennies Pizza (east side of NE Ave.) just north of Barry? Mike Gordons Rest. on 79th St. and the Bay? The Holiday Inn on 79th St. Causeway (now Inn on the Bay/Best Western owned by Charlie Gretner,Jr.) The spa in North Bay Village (I forgot the name), all the houseboats on the Bay in North Bay Village), the Playboy Club and Biscayne Blvd. Theater at 78th and Biscayne? One place that is still there is the Football Sub on NE 2nd Ave (by the little bridge) just south of Rader Methodist Church. My son, Joey, was a mgr. there from about 1988 to 1991. We have so many memories of NE Miami, but we also remember going down to Kendall and picking tomotoes, strawberries, etc. back in the 70's. Just a lot of farm fields! If anybody remembers all of the great areas of NE Miami, I would love to hear from you. Julie

LARGO		22-Jan-2009 13:16
26 degrees - ST.AUGUSTINE, FL......EWWWWW!....LARGO

charlis		20-Jan-2009 23:24
gang... thanks for the year on the Blizzard in Tampa... Oddly enough, in Tampa, tonight, we might see some flakes... actually they said "snow pellets"... um... isn't that sleet? I emailed my daughter to wish her a happy 32nd anniversary of the first time she saw snow... and that now, living in DE, she probably doesn't really want to see it again, after this winter. The story of that day in 1977 has caused many a laugh. I woke up that morning and reached from the bed, as usual, to pull back the drapes to see what it looked like outside... "Oh, S...!", I said. My hubby asked what the matter was... I pulled back the drapes again... his reaction? "Oh, S...!" (Note: we did not use curse words because of our very smart 3.5 year old daughter...) Hubby then reached over to the phone to call his parents down in W. Hollywood. Again the "Oh, S...!" came out... his parents reported seeing snow flakes falling. I then went to my daughter's bedroom and told her that we had a special, late xmas present for her... took her into the bedroom and put her in front of the drapes... pulled them aside... got her version of "Oh, S...!" It gets better... Our 1 year old beagle, Csonka, and wearing his #39 Dolphins t-shirt that my daughter had out grown, ran to the back door... took 3 steps forward and stopped, looked around, yipped (his version of "Oh, S...!") and walked backward in his own steps! It took 2 hours before we could get him to go out! I then went into the living room to go out and get the paper... found the steel door open a few inches and a snow drift in my living room! Traffic was horrible. Schools were closed. took hubby 90 minutes to drive 15 miles to pick up his partner to go to work... bridges were frozen over. In a town full of northerners/snow birds... no one knew how to drive! Snow stayed on the ground for a few hours.

Jo Anne K		20-Jan-2009 23:09
Jeez...................

Guest		20-Jan-2009 23:09
Told you I was challenged......couldn't spell and then fogot my name :) !!!

Guest		20-Jan-2009 23:08
Okay Don.....for those of us who are extremely technologically challenged.......how do we get pictures to you? Sorry it took so long. I got very busy here on the job when I returned from N. Carolina.

Charles Knight		20-Jan-2009 18:14
Hi all...I can,t remember exactly but I think it was in '77 we watched flurries in Sweetwater, I also remember many moring frosts in the Glades while awaiting theschool bus.

Don Boyd		19-Jan-2009 19:43
Bill Graham, long-time Miamian, Stingaree and developer of Miami Lakes, and half brother of former state representive, state senator, Florida Governor and U. S. Senator Bob Graham, passed away last Saturday and so far only his obituary has been published. Strangely there are no Herald articles or segments on TV about his death. His obituary is below: Graham, William Anson "Bill" View/Sign Guest Book GRAHAM, WILLIAM "BILL" ANSON, longtime South Florida community leader and former chairman of The Graham Companies which developed the 46-year-old community of Miami Lakes, passed away January 17th. He was 84. Graham was born February 7, 1924, to Ernest R and Florence Graham, on a houseboat moored at the edge of the Miami Canal at a sugar plantation in the Florida Everglades. His birth was the catalyst for building the famous old coral rock house at Pennsuco which, despite hurricanes, floods and Glades fires, still stands today and remains a place of historical interest. He attended Miami schools, graduating from Miami High School in 1942. He received a B.A. from the University of Florida in 1949 with a major in Economics and Political Science, and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa in his senior year. Graham's education was interrupted by World War II when he served three and one-half years in the Army Air Corps. He was a radar officer on a B-29 in the Pacific Theater of Operations. After the war he continued his love of flying, piloting his personal plane throughout the country. Together with his two brothers (the late Philip Graham, publisher of The Washington Post and Newsweek), and Bob, (former Florida Governor and U.S. Senator), and in collaboration with Lester Collins, grandson of Miami Beach developer John S. Collins, Bill Graham pioneered the master-planned community of Miami Lakes, Florida's first "new town" which opened in 1962. As a result of sound land planning, conservative financial management and careful construction timetables, the community of Miami Lakes became nationally recognized as a successful prototype. Today, the community, now incorporated as the Town of Miami Lakes, is home to more than 27,000 residents, many of whom are numbered in the nearly 10,000 employee-base of Miami Lakes businesses. Miami Lakes is a totally-integrated combination of single family homes, townhome villas, apartments, condominiums, hotels, resort facilities, shopping centers, office & industrial buildings, parks, lakes, schools, churches and other public services. Through his brother Phil's influence as publisher of The Washington Post, Bill Graham was able to get 2000 acres of the former World War II military airport (now Opa-locka Airport), deeded to Miami-Dade County for future development of Amelia Earhart Park. The park now includes the Bill Graham Farm Village, the first authentic farm village in Miami-Dade. It includes a petting zoo, sugar cane press, boiling shed, smokehouse, gazebo, general store and barn, a windmill, haystack, tractor, livestock pens and a tropical fruit grove. Bill Graham fell in love with Angus cattle at the age of 16 when his father, Ernest, let him breed some native Florida cattle to Angus bulls. Ernest Graham, a former state senator and one time candidate for Florida governor, had developed the Graham Dairy farm which grazed on acreage he acquired following the demise of the Pennsylvania Sugar Company of which he was general manager. Following World War II, Bill Graham established a registered Angus herd, and in the early 1950's, began performance testing to supply bulls for the Graham's large commercial herd on what is now Miami Lakes and Venus, in middle Florida. He was also an active leader in local and state community and agricultural organiz ations for many years including serving as president of the Dade County Cattlemen's Association, the Florida Dairy Association, the Independent Dairy Farmer's Association, and as a board member of Performance Registry International. Graham was also on the board of directors of the Hialeah Chamber of Commerce, WPBT (Channel 2) and served on the Dade County Charter. Review Board, the Metropolitan Dade County Transit Authority, Miami Springs Zoning Board and was one of the original twelve members of the Non Group. Graham worked quietly behind the scene, in the community he loved. He contributed to countless causes and enjoyed giving his time and financial support to talented youth who came from disadvantaged backgrounds. In 1945, Bill Graham married Patricia Jane Culbertson of Minneapolis, Minnesota. They have five children - Sandra Younts, William E. Graham, Carol Wyllie, Cynthia Gordon, and Elizabeth Martinez - and 10 grandchildren. Bill Graham lived at a high level of excellence in many activities: as a high school student he played on the first state championship basketball team at Miami Senior High School; as a student at the University of Florida, he was a member of the scholastic honorary society, Phi Beta Kappa; as a young dairy farmer he led the establishment of the Independent Dairy Farmers and was later inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame; he was a leader in applying modern genetics to Angus beef production and is a member of the American Angus Association Hall of Fame; he was the visionary and force behind Miami Lakes, one of America's most recognized new towns; well into his 70's Graham was a world class badminton player. A celebration of his life will be held at the Miami Lakes Congregational Church on his birthday February 7th at 5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers please send any donations to the Miami Lakes Congregational Church or the Moffitt Center in Tampa. To visit this Guest Book Online, go tohttp://www.MiamiHerald.com/obituaries . Published in The Miami Herald on 1/19/2009

Guest		19-Jan-2009 19:12
I was on my way to work on the 79th Street Causeway in Miami on January 1977 and the snow flakes were coming down! I just couldn't believe it!! However, they melted when they hit the ground, but it sure was cold!! We had lived in Miami since 1968 and it was just not suppose to snow in Miami!! Sunny Florida? We moved to Ft. Myers in 1989 and the Christmas of 1989 was soooo cold. Covered all the plants and it looked just Halloween ghosts instead of Christmas! Julie

Jackie		19-Jan-2009 15:24
Charlis... The Florida "snow storm" was in January of 1977, easy for me to remember because that year our youngest was born. We were living in West Palm, where we watched flakes float to the ground. When we drove though it, it scattered like sand and was gone in a few minutes. West of town, west of the Turnpike, more than an inch fell.

Arizona AL		17-Jan-2009 15:13
Miami Girl: I also remember the winter of 1954 while living in Cutler Ridge. Like your family we had recently moved in to our new home. There was only 1 in-wall small gas heater in the house which was completely inadequate. I also recall a very cold winter in 1956 where there was actually early morning frost on the bermuda grass which caused everyone's lawn to turn brown. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and anticipating another day in the mid to high 70s in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		17-Jan-2009 14:16
I am glad I wasn't the only one to freeze my butt off in Miami. I've told Yankees about it and they just can't understand. I was 20 years old before I ever saw ice or snow. I would take the garbage out wearing a pair of khaki pants and walking barefoot in the snow for about a 60 yard round trip. For the first winter, anyhow. They grow 'em tough in Miami. :-)

Miami Girl		17-Jan-2009 02:13
Another freezing in Miami story: My mother was born and raised in Syracuse, NY and said she was never as cold as that first winter in our new Cutler Ridge home in 1954. It was Dec when we moved in so those concrete blocks must have been retaining all the cold and since the builders thought it didn't get cold enough in Miami of course there was no furnace, just those two little gas space heaters and those leaky jalousies. Getting into bed at night (had to have a hot water bottle) was torture as well as getting up in the morning after it got cozy and warm. To this day the smell of moth balls from those woolen blankets brings back the memories of that security, the warm bed and loving home I grew up in.

Jackie		17-Jan-2009 00:02
That was me who forgot to sign in on the last post. Since I haven't been on in a while, Happy New Year to all.

Guest		16-Jan-2009 23:51
Winter weather... I remember the kerosene heater in our tiny house on the trail. Smelly , but effective. Daddy always shut it off at night, and by morning it was freezing again. We piled on the blankets and flannnel pj's and somehow did not suffer too much. I remember seeing a photo my grandparents had taken, probably in the mid 30's before my family moved down from Indiana, of an icicle hanging from a shutter on their home. I remember standing at the bus stop early in the morning feeling the wind like a knife on my legs where my coat didn't quite meet the tops of my socks. Brrrr. My great-uncle would visit us from IN for Christmas, and we would head for Miami Beach where he took his Christmas swim while we, bundled up from head to toe, stood shivering on the shore. Here in GA north of Atlanta, we are expecting our second night of single digit temps.

charlis		16-Jan-2009 23:28
cold weather memories and Florida... I moved to Miami Beach from Ohio in Dec 1962... walked out of the house on the way to school and slipped on an ice puddle! This coming Monday is the 31st or 32nd anniversary since it snowed in Central and South Florida! We had an inch in Tampa, and my in-laws reported seeing flakes in Hollywood! We did not make it into the 60's today in Tampa.

LARGO		16-Jan-2009 17:38
WELL...SINCE WE ARE ON THE SUBJECT OF CHILLY WEATHER...IT IS 46 RIGHT NOW 12 PMish...FRIDAY HERE IN BREEZY ST. AUGUSTINE,..F.L.O.R.I.D.A....for Petes sake already!!!....WILL BE DOWN IN THE HIGH 20s/low30s TONIGHT AND FOR THE NEXT SEVERAL DAYS..BRRRR.......BUT IT IS NOT TOO OFTEN...good moving weather.... I TOO REMEMBER HEAVY FREEZES AS A KID IN MIAMI...I ALSO RECALL THE 8' HIGH AND MORE DEAD STACKS OF FROZEN YARD DEBRIS LINING THE STREETS OF THE S. MIAMI NEIGHBORHOOD I GREW UP IN WHEN THE BIG FREEZES DID HIT......LARGO

whitebelt		16-Jan-2009 15:34
Back in the late 60's I was shacking with a woman on 20th Terrace right on the bay. Lived in a porch converted to an efficiency . Tile floors, jalousies. No heat. One night it was 40 degrees, 40MPH winds and coming in right off the water. Put everything we could on the bed as cover and tried to seal those jalousies, but shivered all night. That was the coldest and longest I had ever been through. I worked for Southern Bell at the time. The next morning after our breakfast at a restaurant on NW 17th and 28th street I went into the hardware store next door, bought an Aladdin kerosene heater, a gas can, and kerosene. Filled the heater up, lit it, and put it in the company van. Then drove home and dropped it off. I still get the shivers just thinking about that night. Had to correct typing errors just writing this.

Miami River Rat		16-Jan-2009 14:35
Arizona Al gerts some envy! 79 would be great. I hear ya', Whitebelt! It was easy to get cold in Miami, because we weren't fixed for it and weren't used to it. My home didn't have any central heating arrangement. On cold days, Grandma would hang bed sheets from the doorways to the kitchen and turn on the oven in her gas stove. My sister and I would get out of our beds, grab our clothes and run for the kitchen! One of the coldest times in my life was around New Years in Miami. I went with a friend to visit two girls in Hialeah, and heading back to West Miami, after midnight, his car broke down out on Milam Dairy Road. We started walking. It was COLD out there on the edge of the 'Glades! A cop came by and gave us a ride to Ludlum and the Trail, and I still bless him to this day. It got down to 16 here last night, but I'm prepared for such things now. Wood heater, heavy clothes and all that. Still, Phoenix and New Mexico are sounding pretty good today...

whitebelt		16-Jan-2009 12:59
Here in northern central New Mexico it has been in the teens at night and the 40's during the day. Actually, quite comfortable. The sunshine warms things up nicely in late morning and afternoon. I live in a big valley a little over a mile high between two mountain ranges. Pretty temperate climate here. I can go 60 miles north and it can be 20 below in higher elevations in Colorado. The only time it gets uncomfortable here is when the sun doesn't shine for a couple of days, which luckily is not very often. In the summer it seldom gets above the 90's, but the sun will cook you if you stay out in it much. But because of the elevation and little humidity, you can get in the shade and cool off. We use humidifiers called swamp coolers here to cool down the houses. Mucho mucho cheaper than air conditioners. I remember frost in Miami many times as a youngin. Walked almost a mile to Gladeview Elementary with sneakers, a thin jacket, no gloves, and almost froze to death a few times. That was painful, that cold wet air. I was a skinny little kid and it would hurt my fingers and nose and ears terribly. We had a solar water heater that I broke the glass on with my baseball. Four kids in the house. During the winter you got up early to beat the others to the bathroom to get a shower, because the first two may have hot or warm water. Forget about it after that. God, I hated cold showers in the winter. I don't know how I survived my childhood.

Arizona Al		16-Jan-2009 08:13
Hello All: Not to appear arrogant and/or pompous but it was 79F in Phoenix today and forecast to be in the mid to high 70s for the next several days. Go Arizona Cardinals. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and waiting for the big playoff game on Sunday in balmy Phoenix, Arizona

Roberta Perry Hughes		16-Jan-2009 04:13
Miami River Rat...Even though I live in the Peach State, I'll 'speak' here, in an S.C. Gullah dialect, to declare, that... It's gwine be nine, theese a-way heah...! Hope no one, anywhere, suffers an ice storm, or a power outtage. Doesn't take but a few minutes, for your house to be cold as a stone. You layer on clothing, thick socks, & hunker down under the covers, feeling your intercostal muscles (in-between your ribs) getting sore, as you shiver, uncontrollably. Then, just when you finally stop shivering...your bladder fills to capacity. Happens every time...! Stay warm, y'all. Be well.

Miami River Rat		16-Jan-2009 03:28
I used to like the bean soup at Royal Castle. Three Castleburgers, a bowl of bean soup and a birch beer and a guy could be good to go fishing all night! Speaking of bean soup, Alabama Jack's, down at the end of Card Sound road served good bean soup too. And good fish sandwiches and cold beer. WOOT! Maybe this current cold snap has me thinking about bean soup? It's supposed to get down to 11 degrees here in Central Alabama tonight. That's the coldest in several years. Once, about 1982 I saw it down to 3 degrees here, the coldest in my experience. As a contrast, I remember walking to the school bus stop one winter morning in the tenth grade. Everybody's grass was gray and I didn't know what caused that. Turned out it was frost! So, I was 15 before I ever saw a natural frost. Ah, Miami, some days I miss you!

Don Boyd		15-Jan-2009 05:50
Wayne Arnold (HHS class of 1958) has reopened his Royal Castle at the corner of NW 7th Avenue and 125th Street. The restaurant has been closed for a couple of years due to a fire in the kitchen. I believe today was the grand opening and a buddy of mine had lunch there today and spoke to Wayne who is also a fan of this site. The Miami Herald is supposed to do an article in a day or two about the reopening. My buddy says: "Castle burgers are 99 cents each with a 6-pack going for $4.99. Yes, they have Birch beer (from a Coca Cola brand, Fanta). They have breakfast fare, but I don't think there were any honeybuns on the menu." I'll be checking it out one of these days in the near future so I can add some photos of it to the site. Don

Roberta Perry Hughes		13-Jan-2009 07:43
Alan...Small world, indeed! You were 6 blocks from where I lived, ! But by then, I was long gone. The houses weren't spectacular. Several folks added on to their houses. A favorite pasttime was to cruise the neighborhood, looking for building permits in the yards. We'd return, often, to check on the progress, be it a pool, patio, or a Florida room. We used to think that, if someone had a brick barbecue pit in their back yard, they were rich. We begged our father to build one in our own yard. No dice. His only add-ons to our home were large awnings, with a monogrammed P in old English, & later on, he bought a carport. Still, we longed for that brick barbecue pit. (sigh) Our neighborhood's houses reminded me of that song, that came out, years later..."Little Boxes, on the Hillside." Do you remember that song? It described all post-war housing projects/neighborhoods. How we used to love to go bike riding!! To go as fast as you could, then, put your feet up on the handlebars, & just cruise along, for a few blocks, with the breeze in your hair...it was almost like flying! I still miss my trusty old bike, & the freedom to ride it, whenever, & wherever, with nary a thought for my safety. All kids were keenly aware, in those days, of bicycle safety. I wish the kids of today could have that freedom, that comfort zone, of understated safety. To draw a marbles ring in the dirt; to draw a hopscotch in the street, using a limestone rock for the 'chalk;' to roller skate in the street, & play ball, or kick-the-can, at dusk; back yard war games, & cowboys & Indians, crack-the-whip, Red Rover, sling the statue, Simon Says, & Mother, may I? Of such are my memories, of life in 1950's Miami. The last year I spent there, I had become a 'teen (at last!) which meant school dances, makeup, & Blue Waltz cologne from the dime store. Cat eye glasses, & sweater guards for your cardigan. Orlon knit sweaters, crisp taffeta slips, circle skirts, & white gypsy blouses, with the elasticized top, to wear in a variety of ways, including over-the-shoulders. Strapless bras, & merry widows. There were shirtwaist dresses, with self-fabric belts, & pearlized buttons. Shoes, that came in a variety of pastel colors, called 'flats,' that looked like high heels--without the heels. Pocketbooks, & billfolds by Princess Gardiner, or Buxton, & made of real leather. Fragile (breakable) lucite purses, so lovely, & highly collectable, today. I was about 4 1/2 years old, when my family moved to Miami, & a young teenager, when we left the neighborhood forever. But it was a magical, happy time, those years were. I never got over leaving Our Town behind me. I sorely miss the way she was, back when, & I cherish all of the photos in the Galleries, even of Hialeah, & Miami Springs, as I had relatives there, & as far away as Islamorado, & Tavenir, in the Keys.

Arizona Al		12-Jan-2009 17:02
Roberta: Between high school graduation (June 1964) and entering the Army (November 1964) I lived with the Coughlin family for 5 months (Ann, Eddie, Bryan and Carol) at 9920 S.W. 49th Street which must have been in the same neighborhood/vicinity of your residence on 55th Street and 99th Place. The world is not small...it is flat. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Leighton		12-Jan-2009 06:26
Seeing Don's, and others, lists below - makes me so sad. So much history, so much gone. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr. leightonchapman@hotmail.com

Roberta Perry Hughes		12-Jan-2009 05:53
Eddie...My brother & I combed the neighborhood on our Schwinns, collecting pop bottles, on our way to the Food Fair, up on Bird Road, where we redeemed them. We'd spend a Saturday, alternately, skating a Sunland Skating Rink, & bowling, at Bird Bowl. Either choice, we'd still end up at Bird Bowl, to have a burger each, a softdrink, & to split a large order of fries. We lived on S.W. 55th Street & 99th Place. Those were the days...!

Eddie		12-Jan-2009 04:49
Dolphin games at the ornage bowl Ludways bar shooting guns at the arch on the trail ranch house mr. doughnuts in westchester Zayres Woolco Lums hydro plane racing in marine stadiu michells go carts sunnyland skating rink with the wood floor next to bird bowl Burger castle, there is the what appears to be the leg of the original gaint holding a sign on south dixie hwy. and around 200 st. north bound Pirates World amusement park Jacks burger stand at the dog track parking lot in south beach the south beach pier and ampitheater The canal that ran down the length of coral way to the palmeto Frankies pizza Fishing under the card sound brigde Fox surf shop

LARGO		12-Jan-2009 01:53
HI ROBERTA....GREAT TO HEAR YOU....WE'RE HAVIN' A REGULAR SHOUTIN' MATCH HERE...CLEAR FROM GA. TO FL...AND BACK AGAIN...YA HOOO!!! I THINK A YEAR OR SO BACK...MAYBE TWO... THE BOYDS REGULARS..(where everybody knows your name) WERE GOING DOWN MEMORY LANE...AND ALTHOUGH I DIDN'T SEE, OR I MISSED IT THIS TIME AROUND...WITH SOOOO MANY LISTED....I WAS JUST A KID..AND I ALWAYS THOUGHT... J. BALDI'S HAIR SALON...a then she she salon..AT SEVERAL LOCATIONS IN THE MIAMI AREA ...WAS SUCH A RIOT...AND LATER WHEN I LARNED ME A WORD ER TWO...."OXYMORON"...BECAME THE SPECIAL WORD FOR THOSE FUNNY NAMES LIKE...J. BALDI'S....HAVE A GREAT WEEK EVERYONE...LARGO

Arizona Al		12-Jan-2009 01:50
Whitebelt: Point of correction. Although few in number compared with the Preppies at Palmetto High circa 1962-1964, the venable Ridge Rats were referred to and treated as "Hoods" by both faculty and students. The devaluation of name and social status was considered by us to be a term of respect and a badge of honor. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Ridge Rat and Hood Emeritus alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

whitebelt		11-Jan-2009 23:22
High school football games in the Orange Bowl. Fights afterwards. Alan, you had juvenile delinquents in your part of town. We had hoodlums at Jackson, Central, Miami High and Hialeah. :-)

Roberta Perry Hughes		11-Jan-2009 23:05
Hi, Gang...! Though I was a child, when I lived in Miami (the first time) from 1952-'61, I remember approx. 95% of the places of which are listed. -I had forgotten all about Austin Burke!! -Rode my bike, or walked, down 102nd Ave., throught Kendall, to Sunset Drive -Mother & I walked on another road, that went past all of the "truck farms," & it so reminded us both of rural Georgia. -Guess I DO recall the canals between Miller Road & S.W. 56th Street! I plunged down its banks, on my Schwinn Spitfire, with my friend, Carol, on the back...!! -I recall all of the signs, for the Lounges & bars...most especially if they were in neon. -Fondly remember Richard's Dept. Store, as my father delivered packages for them, & we shopped the Bargain Basement for our school clothes. Here's you some, not mentioned: -The Jackie Pierce Show, on WTVJ -Charlie Murdock, on WQAM -Ten's Bandstand--when the host was Bill Wyler If everyone else is of a like mind, I'm sure, our nostalgia is quite wistful, even producing a tear or two, for what we miss the most, from those days of "remember when," is, not only our youth, but rather instead, the seemingly "innocence" of the times, when we, as kids, could go anywhere, everywhere, even as young as aged five, without fear of anyone harming a hair on our heads. I rode for miles, on my trusty 24" red & white Schwinn, & later on, on my sister's 26" blue & white model, which she had abandoned. And I walked nearly as far, from Bird Road on down to Sunset Drive, either with my mother, or (gasp!) alone. I wish the kids of today knew such freedoms as we had, then. But the world had changed...& change is not always "a good thing." In the Fifties, it was, indeed, for a kid, "Yes, we can." Now, unfortunately, it isn't...as far as safety is concerned. HI, LARGO...!!! GREAT TO SEE YOU ON HERE!!!

whitebelt		11-Jan-2009 23:00
Fishing from the Rickenbacker Causeway. Snagging mullet and fishing from the 79th St Causeway. Almost snagged a few cars, too. The Crook and Crook and Gordon's bait shops at 27th and US1. Can't remember the name of the one on 79th St near Biscayne.

charlis		11-Jan-2009 19:57
Don... here are a few more memories... the huge pool at the 'Bleau, where you could go to the "basement" and see people swimming, where "Goldfinger" was filmed. the Ice Skating rink and radio station in the "basement" of the Deauville Hotel The "Surfside 6" houseboat docked in the Intercoastal/Indian Creek across from the 'Bleau The original Lums on 41st St. Funland on 79th St. Nick & Arthurs's on 79th St. The pelicas sitting on all the old pilings in Biscayne Bay as you drove to Miami Beach on the causeway Walking along the beach, on Miami Beach, and actually seeing the stars Hurricane Cleo's direct hit on Miami Beach That great bar-b-que place on US1 that made you want to turn in and eat because the smell was so good... even after you had just ate! The lighted par 3 golf course for playing at night in South Miami The lawn concerts at the Beach Auditorium where you got to see the Beach boys, etc. Crandon Park Zoo that was free! The stilt houses on your drive to the Keys Leaving South Miami on a drive to the Keys and seeing very few houses, except the above mention stilt houses west of US 27 in the north was nothing but Everglades... no subdivisions, Same for US 1 in the south Jordan Marsh on Biscayne was there by itstelf... then they create the Omni... Lincoln Road was composed of small shops, even the "big guys" like Saxs kept the stores small. No "Multi-plex" movie theatres

charlis		11-Jan-2009 18:57
Don and River Rat... thanks for the memories... Mine only go back to 1962. The Cuban missle crisis stands out in my mind because my mother was in Europe before the USA got involved. On Miami Beach, during the crisis, they used to set off the alarms at noon every Saturday. My mother cringed in fear as she remembered them going off in France and Germany. It did not help much when we heard an explosion about the time the drill was to happen. Seems that a restaurant near Lincoln Rd. blew up! We lived 38 blocks north! Old people and Miami Beach were synonymous... my, at the time future grandparentsin-law lived at the hotel where they filmed the "Golden Girls". Greynolds Park... horseback riding and long walks with the then current boyfriend... even have the heart carved on one of the trees. Rick Shaw, and the rest of the gang... first time my parents let me take the bus across the Bay, when WQAM was located at the Shine McCallister (sic) and I was on the dance show with Evie. South Miami when a good part of it was still in the Everglades... no houses, no strip malls.... Christmas Light tour in one neigborhood in Coral Gables... Oh, life was good then.

Arizona Al		11-Jan-2009 14:01
Miami River Rat/George Spofford: Born in Miami 1945 and resided there (South Miami, Cutler Ridge, and North Miami) until I left the State in 1969. I actually recall and in many cases fondly remember most of the locations, events, items and activities that are listed. After 63 years proactive memory interference I really appreciate the cognitive energy boost and re-ignition! THANK YOU. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and cognitively recharged in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:27
#9 and the last of the bunch from George Spofford who passed them on to me. George was Deputy Director of Miami International Airport under Dick Judy from the early 1970's until 1989 and then Aviation Director for Broward County throughout the 1990's where he retired. Florida Pharmacy in the Grove AKA the "Fagacy" The Light House on Key Biscayne was a simple picnic place w/ NO Seawall Fair Isle was just that, an island where we snagged mullet and fished P. B. A. park on NW 14 St. Miami Senior High before air conditioning Biscayne Cafeteria in the Gables M and M cafeteria on SW 27 Ave and 8 St WQAM radio King Arthur's Court on 36 St. Big Daddy's Drag Races on Kendall and Krove Ave The Tropicaire Flea market Allen's Drugs at Red and Bird Road WINZ radio Scotty's Grocery in the Grove where tomatoes and artichokes were the size of your hand When Westchester was "out in the country...way outside of Miami ..." When there was NO FIU and then 'FIU in '72!" When Miami Coral Park Senior High School was predominantly Jewish Miles of strawberry fields on Kendall Drive after you passed 107th Avenue No Town & Country Mall on Kendall Drive No " West Kendall " at all The Hamlet bar on Main Hwy The little drive-in place that sold whisky at South Dixie and 27th Ave The little bait shop that sold beer at South Dixie and 17th Ave When Stiltsville was a seldom frequented place on the sand bars The LeJeune Drive In, where the Marriott is now When Widow McCoy's in the Grove was the hotspot for live jazz The Grove Movie Theatre and the midnight "Rocky Horror" shows every weekend All the funky shops on Grand Avenue before Cocowalk and Mayfair took over When there was no traffic on the Palmetto Expressway When Sweetwater was just trailers, small farms and houses on the other side of the canal When there was NO Midway Mall, International Mall, or Dolphin Mall Royal Ice Company on Douglas and US1 Great Value grocery store in Cutler Ridge , next to Dad's Hardware Breezeway Drive-In in Homestead Jefferson 's Dept Store; Useless 1 (US 1) or South Dixie Hwy Shaw's Nursery on US1 and Killian Dr Poe's Hardware on US1 and Lejeune Road Rhodes Brothers Club on US1 & 136th When Luria's Bird Bowl had a gas station When Tropical Park was a horse track Police Athletic League dances at Bird Road and 72nd When we had TV channels! 4 (CBS), 7 (NBC), 10 (ABC) and then 6 (WCIX) Bird Bowl & the skating rink Drink & Sink...all the skating & beer you can drink for $5...

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:24
#8 from George Spofford: When La Carreta only had one location George's Super Subs on 8th Street and 47th Ave Wolfie's and the Rascal House on Miami Beach Drag Races at Amelia Earhart Field Kelly's Hamburgers Drive-In (later Billy's Drive-In) on 79th St next to the North Bay Marina Dressels Dairy for ice cream and pony rides on a Sunday afternoon on Milam Dairy Road Sealtest ice cream parlor near Jimmys Hurricane on Bird Rd. Luskin's High Fidelity Lyle's Pharmacy Dixie Drive-in and the Japanese fish farm next door Lindsley Lumber Victoria and Abbey Hospitals Mercy Hospital on Biscayne Bay Malibu Grand Prix Jacksons, Byrons, Jackson-Byrons JByrons The rides on top of downtown Burdines each holiday season McCrory's Five and Dime - Downtown Sam the China Man Roland Your Hatter in the Seybold Bldg. Bayfront Auditorium with the Saturday Dances Bayfront Park and the Public Library there 5th Street Fishing Pier and Charter Boats - Downtown (where Bayside sits today) FunLand Park on NW 27th Ave Krome Avenue was wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy out in the sticks Seminole Indian huts out on Tamiami Trail that did not have Parabolic antennas sticking out Pan Am's seaplane hangers (where real live seaplanes took off many times a day) in the Grove Mansene's Spaghetti House The Studio Restaurant The Yorkshire The Hampshire Leonard La Pena's Steak House Fire Station # 1 across from the old Courthouse The Old Miami train station just across the street from the police dept. Coral Gables Bus station The Boys Club of Miami on 32nd Ave (before it became co-ed) Dairy Queen's with the curly cone on top and "flying saucer" ice cream A & W root beer joints Royal Castle Hamburgers The tennis courts at Coconut Grove park next to the basketball court

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:23
#7 from George Spofford: Gordons Docks The Coliseum Bowling : 1928 Opera House-Boxing - Wrestling - Ice/Roller - Skating Rink Indy car races at Tamiami Park The Hialeah Speedway with demolition derbys When Shorty's BBQ burned down When the Rickenbacker was a drawbridge - and cost 25 cents Biscayne Dog Track Campus Life Haunted House When the Youth Fair was at K-Land on Kendall Drive When the Mark IV was the best ride at the youth fair All the Dairy Farms west of where Miami International Airport sits today Uncle Gordon reading the Sunday funnies on the radio (at the Freedom Tower formerly the Miami Daily News Bldg.) The Skipper Chuck Show with Scrubby and Toby the Robot Miami Marine Stadium and Hydroplane races Velvet Creme Planet Ocean (now Mast Academy ) Monkey Jungle Parrot Jungle (moved to Watson Island) The Goodyear Blimp at Watson Island Chalk's Flying Service Club OZ Tom Thumbs in the Grove When the Mall of the Americas was Midway Mall Rory Sparrow Black Caesar's Forge Marcella's Mia Cucina Richards Department Store & Basement - Downtown Grant's Five and Dime - Downtown and outlying shopping centers Gesu Catholic Church Downtown Biscayne Restaurant - Downtown Olympia Theater Jimmy's Hurricane and the Hurricane Cooler Hot Shoppes and the Orange Freeze, Teen Twist and Big Mo The Big Wheel Ice Palace Ice Skating Rink on NW 36 St. Key West was a long, lonely trip, and the Key Lime Pie was 'real' The trips down to the Rod and Reel Club at Jewfish Creek on Key Largo The trips down to Everglades City The Red Diamond Italian Restaurant south of the Airport on Lejuene The El Bolero Restaurant

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:23
#6 from George Spofford: When Crown Liquors got shot up Cocaine Cowboys Tent City Packer Pontiac Hurricane David and that masking tape that's still on all your windows Grand Union (the grand union of all good things) When the Norway was the largest cruise ship in the world When the Rusty Pelican burned down Dade County Junior College, then renamed to Miami-Dade Junior College The Coffee House on Douglas Rd The Lemon Twist The Monk's Inn The French Connection Monty Trainer's Village Inn Jordan Marsh Burdines and the playground on its roof Peaches Records and Tapes Ed 'mark em down' Lane on television selling used autos The Coca Cola Bottling company in the Grove Super Skating Centers and Tropical Skating Center National, Air Florida and Eastern Airlines Glen Rinker & Ralph Renick on TV Gator Kicks on Tamiami Trail When there was a grocery store in Dadeland Mall The Seahorse at Dadeland Mall When Dadeland Mall was open air! Gold Triangle across from Dadeland When "Footy's" name was "Athlete's Foot" Heiny Wine "The wine that made Medley, Medley" When the 94th Aero Squadron had good food The Tropicaire Drive in Theater When there was a Burdines at the Mayfair mall When the Mayfair Mall was a drive-in laundry When Centrust was Dade Federal Savings When SunTrust was Sun Bank First Federal Savings & Loan The Dadeland Twin Theater, the Riviera Theater, Gables Theater and the Coral Theater The Coconut Grove Playhouse Ivan Kivit's Merry-Go-Round Theater

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:22
#5 from George Spofford: Tahiti Beach for swimming during the day and making out at night Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick Zayre, Diskay, Woolworth, and Woolco in Westchester and what was then Midway Mall WFUN and WQAM were "THE" stations to listen to if your car only had an AM radio If you were lucky enough to have FM, you listened to Y-100 Lums and Jahn's were the places to go with your friends after football games Krispy Kreme across from the cemetery on 8th Street had the BEST doughnuts! Sambo's in the Gables across from Sears and their patty melts at 3 AM Sweden House (all you care to eat!) on Dixie Highway The Flame (also on Dixie ) Pumpernicks The Rascal House Fox's Sherron Inn for the prime ribs (still there!) When Tamiami Park was Tamiami Airport and there were cow pastures across the street The animated, talking cow in Dressels Dairy's ice cream parlor Toby the Robot and Scrubby on Skipper Chuck (Zink) The Copacabana Supper Club James McDuffie and Neville Johnson Johnnie Jones and gold plumbing Mercury Morris D'Pizza of UM Lou Saban and the Canes Murf the Surf A time when Frank Forte and Don Noe weren't on channel 10 Molly Turner and Alec Gibson Arthur Godfrey Show from Miami Beach When trains ran parallel to U.S. 1 (at ground level) The roller skating rink at South Dixie and SW 27th Ave When the 836 toll was 10 cents The Miami Marlins and the Ft. Lauderdale Yankees (AA teams) When FIU was a "Senior College" and the school's nickname was the "Sun Blazers" The Miami Daily News Miami Rowing Club Musa Isle village, the Seminole Indian Village on NW 27th ave. & the Miami River K-land on Kendall Drive The Ft. Lauderdale Strikers Flipper in the open end-zone at the Orange Bowl The rotating shark at the entrance to Key Biscayne The Seaquarium with Hugo the Killer whale

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:21
#4 from George Spofford: The bowling alley at the end of Cutler Ridge strip mall (where Sears is now) The little walk-in movie theater in the back of Cutler Ridge 's strip mall Richards Dept Store Private camps in the everglades Pole beans and tomato farms on Kendall Drive (U-Pick-Em) When the Coconut Grove Arts Festival was free and you could actually buy something there The Trail Theater on Douglas/8th St The Tower Theater on 8th St / 15th Ave The Pizza Palace on 8th Street and it's "snowball" architecture Pizza Patio on Bird Road Roller skating waitresses and car-side service The Huddle House (at the corner of SW 8th St and 76th Ave before 826 cut it off) The Coral Way Drive-In down the street from the football stadium high schools played in Concord Shopping Center and Movie Theater Food Fair, Kwik Chek, and Super-X Drug stores Anthony Abraham's home in the Gables with the most amazing Christmas decorations When Kendall Drive was "the road to nowhere" Colonial Palms Golf Course on US 1 and SW 136th St When I-95 didn't reach here When "Miami 's Best Pizza" was the original "Little Caesar's" The Five & Dime Store at Coral Way and 27th Ave Parodi's Five & Dime Store on 8th Street The Glorified Delicatessen on Coral Way The Gold Star Deli on SW 8th Street The Pub Restaurant on Coral Way with Whitey as Host Richard Nixon's southern White House on Key Biscayne When Les Violins was a hot spot When the people on South Beach were older than the buildings WCIX - Channel 6 Big Wilson The original Holsum Bakery Christmas display in South Miami When Howard Schnellenberger was "king" of the University of Miami Canes The Serpentarium and Bill Haas "milking" all those snakes! The Australian Pines that lined the trail on the way to the Miccosoukee Tribe The Zoo at Crandon Park and it's kiddy rides The Hurricane Harbour Lounge The Silver Sands Motel on Key Biscayne

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:20
#3 from George Spofford: The air raid sirens in South Miami The Holsum Bakery on US 1 and Red Road ...can ya still smell it? Polar Palace on 36th Street The old skinny rickety bridges to Key West Mike's Drug Store in the South Miami Heights Shopping Center Eureka Park 's little orange pumpkin Five year olds being able to walk to school on your own (I did) Gen & Wren's (it's the Shack now) Hurricane Donna The Flick Coffeehouse on Ponce by the UM The "dump" at the end of Eureka on Old Cutler Road W. T. Grants and Grant City (where the Best Buy is now on US 1 & Marlin Rd) "Hey, Culligan Man!" The water slide in Florida City Zayre on US 1 in "Pinecrest" where the Home Depot is now When "Pinecrest" was Sunniland The Tigertail Lounge in the Grove When there was a Winn Dixie where Cocowalk is now When Oak Avenue in the Grove had "head shops" When Flanigans was the Loggerhead and it had pool tables and didn't serve food Royal Castles everywhere! Birch beer and belly sliders (where the cops were) When you didn't have to pay to launch your boat at Matheson Hammock Jai Lai on US1 behind the Bowl - O - Mat Dixie Drive-In where the big Publix is now on US 1 Neisner's in the old Cutler Ridge strip mall When Mr. & Mrs. Burr owned everything on the west side of Burr Road and Mr. Mixon owned everything on the east side Camp Choee on Colonial and 117th Ave. Camp Mahachee by Matheson Hammock park Beefsteak Charlies on US 1 across from Bowl - O - Mat You could find shells in the water at Matheson Hammock wading beach Gooney golf at the Colonial Palms Course on US1 & 136th St Patty Murray on WGTR Larry King on WIOD Rick Shaw on WQAM The Dupont Plaza Hotel on the Miami River Monroe Station Jimmy's Hurricane and the Hurricane Cooler Hot Shoppes and the Orange Freeze, Teen Twist and Big Mo When Miami High was "the" high school

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:20
#2 from George Spofford: Strawberry fields on Kendall Dr between Red Rd and 67 ave... (North side of street) La Casita Tea Room - Coconut Grove Burdines Jordan Marsh The lighthouse at the end of Poinciana Ave in the Grove Ann Bishop on WPLG, Ralph Renick on WTVJ Marjorie Stoneman Douglas Alice Wainwright Blaze Star - Burlesque queen in the 50's Carillon Hotel, Miami Beach The Florida Pharmacy Berts Grocery Store 5 & 10 next to Coconut Grove Elementary Dante Fascell Park Merry Christmas Park Land crabs in your front yard Hurricane parties The Doors concert at Dinner Key Auditorium When 'Saddle Shoes' were a fashion statement Birch Beer at Royal Castle Johnnie & Mack by the railroad track, the world's largest, and that's a fact! Jack O'Brien and Municipal Auto Sales commercials Western Sunset Bowl When Don Carter's was the ONLY thing on 137th & Kendall Drive When you could get a bucket of shrimp at Kentucky Fried Chicken Miami = "See it like a Native" ad campaign The Coppertone Girl on Biscayne Boulevard (recently moved back to 73rd and Biscayne) The MacArthur Dairy Boy licking his lips When there was a canal down the center of Miller Road "The Dungeon" with M.T. Graves on Saturday afternoon T.V. Bowl - O - Mat on US 1 St. Timothy's annual carnival The water tower in South Miami Heights The Jamaica Inn on Key Biscayne (prime rib on Saturday nights) When Quail Roost Drive was nothing but avocado groves Big Daddy's Lounge on US1 and Coral Reef Drive Daisy May's Barbeque on 8th Street When Black Point was the old shack store and there was nothing but shrimp boats there A&W Drive-In - served birch beer and the waitresses came out on roller skates

Don Boyd		11-Jan-2009 05:18
These are some that I've never seen before, from George Spofford, with a lot of them related to Coconut Grove. I am breaking them up into several groups: #1 The Motherlode on Commodore Plaza "Drano" – once the "mayor" of the street in the Grove, he also was the Mango Strut Queen one year. Banjo Billy on Channel 10 in the morning When Channel 10 was WLBW Jumping Jack on weekday afternoons The White Baron on Channel Six WCIX When Burger King sold hot dogs Barry's "The Joint" clothing store in the Grove When downtown Burdines had an annual amusement park on its roof When Burdines had fashion show luncheons Joey Carr Austin Burke "Suits, suits and suits!" The Machine Shop (Pinball arcade) on Coral Way Biscayne Baby's in the Grove When Brickell Avenue had no high-rises! White Rock (had a fairy on the side of building) bottling plant where Mary and Tigertail intersect Deans in the Gables, meetup at 2 AM. Snowdens, great drive (or ride) down Old Culter, good beer and a game of pool! Trio Diner on 8th Street Danny Mahoney and the Last Word in the Grove The Pub, the Hamlet and Captian Dicks The Electric Zoo Country Store restaurant Adam Turtle Bill Hutton's gallery that was a sand box! The Gaslight Cafe on Grand Ave Spanky and Our gang Vince Martin and Fred Neil Oz Bach The Grove House Cherry Smash at Lyle's - 5 cents Grove Corners on Main Hwy The Hawiian Shop on Main Highway Thrill Hill Meyer Lansky Tahiti Beach Sign of the Sandpiper

Miami River Rat		11-Jan-2009 04:12
Here's a few oldies for y'all: YOU KNOW YOU GREW UP IN OLD MIAMI IF YOU REMEMBER.... When the Courthouse was the tallest building When US1 was only two lanes Pier 5 where you could buy fresh fish right off the boat When the people on South Beach were older than the buildings WCIX channel 6, or WAXY radio and Rick Shaw, or Zeta 4 Big Wilson Ralph Renick Howard Johnson's fried clams and ice cream The Jackie Gleason show with the June Taylor dancers Riddle Airlines Medley Speedway A &P grocery stores Planes spraying for fruit flies Bayfront Bandshell The Miami News When there was a grocery store in Dadeland Mall Grand Union, Kwik Check, Ann Margeret grocery stores When the Rusty Pelican burned down When Shorty's Bar-B-Que on US 1 burned down The Tropicaire Drive-In and swap meet The Ferris wheel atop Burdines downtown Jordan Marsh Riviera Theater and the Miracle Mile Theater National Airlines, Air Florida and Eastern Airlines Pan Am's airport at Dinner Key When the Rickenbacker was a drawbridge (only 25 cents) The Skipper Chuck Show and the Sunday Funnies Lindsley Lumber Zayres J Byrons Hot Shoppes Paileys Big Wheel Crandon Park Zoo Johnny and Mack by the railroad track Sheehan Buick on 8th Street ... when it was called 8th Street Gretners Restaurant, The Flame, Dixie Bell Inn, The Depot Black Angus Restaurant at 104 street Holsum Bakery's wonderful smell of bread baking on US1 When Dadeland was an open-air mall When there was only a Gulf station on US 1 cross from Shorty's When Tamiami airport was on the Tamiami Trail A&W Drive in restaurants Lums and their frozen schooners and wieners in beer The Village Inn The Playboy Clubs Big Daddy's Lounges Auto Inspections Roberts Western Wear and OK Feed Store The English Pub and Jamaican Inn on Key Biscayne Claude Pepper's picnics at Tropical Park Tropical Park when it was a racetrack South Miami Hospital when it was only one building. When they built Baptist hospital When everyone thought the turnpike extension was built too far out When Coconut Grove was a hippie hangout Sam and Carl's Deli in S Miami Rock concerts at Miami Jai Alai stadium Sunniland Pony Rides Land Crabs on Old Cutler The diving board and dock at Matheson Hammock pond Barefoot Mailman at Dadeland Bill Haas and the Serpentarium Concerts at the Miami Marine Stadium Sunday country dancing at Alabama Jack's Tyler's Restaurant Live &Let Live drug store Engel's Drug Store in Grove When S Beach was just below 5th Street Food Fair Pantry Pride Piggly Wiggly Fla. License with Letters depicting size of car The Miami Springs Villas Miami Seahawks pro football team Red Cross Drugs in downtown Miami King Arthur's Court in Miami Springs Men's Grill at Burdines Richard's Bargain Basement The Round Table restaurant on US1 near UM Royal Castle hamburgers @ 15 cents, birch beer 5 cents Jimmy's Hurricane drive-in on Bird Black Caesar's Forge in South Dade "Yes, We Have No Bananas" Bus riding all over the county with paper transfers getting punched The black beach on Virginia Key Greynolds Park hill...the highest point in Dade County Only two highways north: US 1 and 27 Warning signs about roasting marshmallows with oleander sticks Cuban crisis; missile silos in ground all over south Dade All rental cars had E license tags Tags had number for county size: Dade 1, Liberty 67 Chalk Airlines and Goodyear Blimp base on Watson Island Seasonal arrival of buzzard colonies atop Courthouse Burdines installing the state's first escalator The caves at Venetian Pool Absolutely nothing west of the airport until Doral Orange Bowl: HS football Thursday nights, UM Friday nights The par-54 night-lighted golf course on South Dixie Highway The paper man downtown who had no legs and rolled around on a piece of board and skate wheels. The shoeshine boys downtown near Richards Dept Store The huge Christmas display at the Holsum Baker on US1 I'm really OLD! I remember most all of that, except for the Sea Hawks. They were before even my time.

LARGO		11-Jan-2009 02:37
WHY DOES "GUEST" POST RUDE QUESTIONS??...FYI ...I HAVE SIGHT ISSUES...STICK IN YOUR EARPLUGS...AND MOVE ON !... ;~) ....OK?.... THANKS PARKS .....LARGO

Parks		11-Jan-2009 01:21
Hi Guys! I had lunch at what was once the Flick today. It's now the Titanic Brew Pub. The foods good and they make several kinds of beer there. As you would expect, it's a big Uof M hang out. The weather in Miami today was perfect! All of you who move up to the cold should at least come back for a visit. I set some stone crab traps just off from Tahiti Beach today. I'll let you know if I catch any next Saturday. Welcome Guest! Largo always uses all caps, the regulars here are used to it and it doesn't bother anyone. Have you got a Miami history story to tell us?

Guest		10-Jan-2009 23:35
Why does Largo shout by posting all in caps?

Don Boyd		10-Jan-2009 21:32
New photos added: Leon Estes contributed a 1926 image of the Regent Emporium, owned by his parents next door to the Regent Theatre in Allapattah, shortly before the hurricane of 1926 destroyed it (restaurants gallery), and two 1947 flood photos in Allapattah (40's gallery). Don

Miami Girl		09-Jan-2009 12:35
Thanks Martha and Al for the info on the Flick Coffee House - that name was completly deleted out of my memory bank. Wish I had gone in the place.

Arizona Al		09-Jan-2009 00:53
Miami Girl: Flick Coffee House. Oz Bach (folksinger) and Gail Satz (folksinger) used to perform there circa 1963-1964. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona

Martha Pierson		09-Jan-2009 00:14
oops Coffee House

Martha Pierson		09-Jan-2009 00:13
Miami Girl the name of the coffee shop was The Flick.

LARGO		09-Jan-2009 00:04
WELL YA KNOW ROBERTA...I THINK, THANKS TO DON, ALL OUR OLD POST ARE ARCHIVED ON ALL THE "OLD COMMENTS" SECTIONS...AND A FEW OF US HAVE BEEN POSTING SINCE THE BEGINNING OF DONS SITE......SEEMS LIKE THE LAST ONE REALLY FILLED UP FAST DIDN'T IT??. SO FOR ANY NEWBYS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN 'The good ole days" of this site" THEY CAN READ ABOUT ALL THE EARLY FUN WE HAD GETTING TO KNOW ALL OUR NEW FRIENDS. I AM GO ING TO A GATOR GAME PARTY TONIGHT...MADE CHILI...CAUSE ITS FOOTBALL PERFECT CHILLY...FROM HERE TO OUR WONDERFUL MIAMI...GO GATORS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!......LARGO

Miami Girl		08-Jan-2009 16:56
Roberta, okay here's a memory that just popped into my head. In the mid 60s there was a Coffee House right off US 1 near the University (I'm thinking it was on a side road that paralleled the highway), I never went inside but it facinated me in that it was frequented by "those weird Beatnik people" - and I'm sure they were smokin' all kinds of different plants. Anybody know what I'm talkin' about, or maybe it's a figment of my imagination??

Fran		08-Jan-2009 15:08
Roberta, true enough concerning being one of those who felt that the postings became mean spirited. Even though I felt that way. I did visit the Old Hialeah site and reviewed the comments. However, was not part of the Go-Kart gang or fights over the bridge. I can appreciate their memories. Glad to see that they are alive and well. Still I can enjoy and relate to many of their comments. The Gables was an all time favorite of mine. Spent many hours, days and years there. Good luck finding those from your old neighborhood.

Arizona Al		08-Jan-2009 13:48
Roberta: Guilty as charged..went through all the childhood, adolescent, and early adult milestones in Miami. However, I must interject that my delinquency phase (12 to 16 years) was well past the borderline stage and was a full blown category which led albeit briefly into adult criminality (17 and 18 yrs old) which was thankfully circumvented by my good old Uncle Sam when I was 18. Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive and surprisingly well at age 63 in Phoenix, Arizona

Roberta Perry Hughes		08-Jan-2009 05:45
Fran...No, ma'am, not related to your teacher friend, Rita. My husband is the Hughes; I'm Roberta Hughes, nee Perry. We're not (even remotely) related to Howard, either...as in the late Howard Hughes. (sigh) Largo...Great to see a Posting from you, after such a long time! And glad someone else feels as I do, that, all of us Posters on here ARE "Old Miami!" Shoot fire and save matches, y'all, without the Post-A-Comment Club, whether one is a newbie or an oldie, all of these now long-gone locations, highways & byways, & edifices, & even the foods we loved so very much, & ate with relish, would just crumble, without our collectively keen minds, to bring them all to life!! I was a mere child, when my family made Miami our home. Therefore, my memories are limited, & few, as compared to someone who lived the whole of their lives, from the cradle, & on past adulthood, having experienced their teenage angst down there, and/or "borderline juvenile delinquency," & they dated, steamed-up the car windows, got married, joined the service, & even began a family of their own, down there, or, embarked on careers that took them states away from their roots. I visited relatives, a a child, in Opa-locka, Hialeah, Hallandale, Hollywood, Tavenir, Islamorado, Miami Springs, Allapattah, etc., but not enough to be able to relate to the Posters who comment on those particular venues, even though I vividly recognize many of the old photos, in those Galleries. Two of my aunts had homes in Hialeah, very nearly identical to the former home of our host, Don Boyd's family. I've had no luck, in finding Posters on this site who are from my old neighborhood, located between Bird Road & Miller Road. But it never stopped me from sharing what memories I Do have, & Do remember, ever so vividly...! It was such fun, when we all recalled how we celebrated Hallowe'en, with our homemade costumes, & the school carnivals, etc., & other holidays, as well. We've had our "anonymous" critics, & those whose identities were made known, & it was even a bit mean, at times, & reprimanding. Some were scared away, from future postings, as a result. And now, look. Here it is January 8th. And where in the yell is everybody?? The holidays are long since past, & folks should be back in the swing of things, with their lives, by now, surely?! I can remember a time when most everyone couldn't wait, to return to our "Home Base," on here, & give a rousing "How be ya?", & a sincerely given inquiry, as to "How were your holidays?" Because most of us have scattered, far from Our Town, talking about the weather, in that place that we now call "home," was a common topic, & one we felt that we could share, without fear of criticism. All I can think of is to, perhaps...rehash our old material...?? Re-post our already-been-posted memories...?? Maybe, in so doing, a newbie reading it, could become inspired by it, to post their own...??!! What say you, LARGO?? Charlis?? Al??? Miami Girl??? Don?? Any suggestions??? Shucks, folks. I'll admit it: I miss everyone, so very much. It's like... "...Everyone's gone to the moon."...

Fran		07-Jan-2009 12:34
Roberta, not at this site. However, I have posted several times on other sites. Graduated from Miami Springs High, class of 1967. I don't recall the name of your cousin. The only Roy, I knew was Roy Campbell. Are you related to Rita Hughes? I taught Third Graders with her many years ago. Out standing grade partner!

LARGO		07-Jan-2009 11:40
HI ROBERTA...NICE TO KNOW THERE ARE A FEW REGS LEFT THAT ARE NOT OVER MONITORING ALL THE SUBTLE NUANCES OF WHAT ONCE WAS FUN AND 'LIVELY' CONVERSATIONS BETWEEN MIAMIANS THEN AND NOW ....TOO MANY CRANKY CRITICS HAVE PUT ME OFF THE SITE FOR AWHILE...MY LAST POST WAS IN THE CUTOFF DEC. 31st 'COMMENTS' SECTION WISHING ALL A 'MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR'. WITH THE WORLDS HUMANITY AND FINANCES IN SUCH A FUNK ...INDIVIDUALS ARE MEARLY REACHING OUT FOR ENCOURAGEMENT FROM ONE ANOTHER...SO OK MAYBE THIS IS NOT THE PLACE...SO BE IT...NICE TO HEAR FROM YOU ROBERTA.. GOOD TO READ YOUR COLORFUL, NEWSY CHAT..WISHING YOU WELL.....LARGO

Roberta Perry Hughes		07-Jan-2009 07:39
Fran...Pleased ta meet ya...! I'll pop on over to Hialeah's posts, & see what goes on over there. My Cousin, Roy, lived there, prior to going into the Army. (aka: LeeRoy Caulder, or, LeeRoy Tauer). He lived in Miami Springs, prior to Hialeah, on Whitethorn Drive. Don't think I've seen you on here before???

Fran		07-Jan-2009 06:52
Roberta, glad to hear that you are alive and well. If you haven't been to the Old Hialeah Memories section then you have missed a multiple of postings. We have had a great time discussing our old home town. However, I do enjoy your postings and AZ Al's too.

Roberta Perry Hughes		07-Jan-2009 06:36
Hello, everybody...!!?? Guess a few are taking an extended holiday, huh?? Must be nice...!! The weather here, in the Deep South, was like a balmy Spring day. Didn't even put on a sweater, when I went out & about...! Bizarre...! Very overcast, & the rain hovered overhead, but didn't fall, until after dark. Can't complain, however, as traveling on U.S. 1 is unsettling, even with the sun shining. Hope that the weather is kind, wherever y'all are, & that everyone's well & feeling good, & enjoying life. I don't see the harm in posting my well wishes on here, at this time. Just talking to y'all is a connection, to every "old" Miami memory that I hold dear to my heart, you know?? At least, I'm posting. I check on here, everyday, to see if there's anything new, left by a newbie, or one of the regulars. If y'all don't wake up, I guess Don & I can chat back & forth...'til someone comes on here & objects to the content...? Hey...! Maybe that's one way to flush y'all out of the woodwork...! Al? Largo? Charlis? Anybody???

Don Boyd		07-Jan-2009 05:55
Well somehow all the comments disappeared but I found them in a cached version of this gallery so I'm reposting them. I don't know what happened - some kind of glitch in PBase. Fortunately there were only a few days worth. Don ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ charlis 02-Jan-2009 23:19 don... never mind... I found the link to the guy and gave it to Evie. She has a t-shirt that the Beatles "signed"... she was at the event/interview. Happy New Year! charlis 02-Jan-2009 22:51 Don... lost your email address... Evie has some stuff from that party... she is in desperate need of money. Even has the German record, sealed. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Don Boyd 02-Jan-2009 04:15 Thank you Miami Girl and Roberta. Happy New Year! New photos added: a 1950's image of the Chesapeake Sea Food House (NW North River Drive and 36th Street) menu with a photo of the restaurant (restaurants gallery) and two images of a 1964 WQAM record that was released with their disk jockeys interviewing the Beatles (radio stations gallery). If anyone else has one of these records please send me an e-mail because a collector has some questions to ask about it. Don ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Miami Girl 02-Jan-2009 00:50 LOVE THE NEW LOOK DON!!! As always, you're doing a fantastic job with this site. Even though I don't post comments very often I check it almost daily. Bet ya wish you were getting paid by the hour! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL. Miami Girl -- FREEZING in upstate NY and dreaming of those hot summer days gone by. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Roberta Perry Hughes 01-Jan-2009 11:21 WOW!!! My, oh my, how we have grown on here!!! Don, the Galleries are fantastic!!The new Comments section is so pristine & brand-spanking-new!! Congratulations, on such a beautiful job, & such a wonderful gift, for all of us Old Miamians!! HAPPY NEW YEAR, to all of y'all...!! With greatest respect, & many, many thanks...!!! I am, most sincerely, Roberta, literally, chillin' out, in the CSRA, Peach State ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Arizona Al 01-Jan-2009 07:40 Bess Metcalf: Are you related to Bernie Metcalf from the Homestead area? Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and trying to remember to put 2009 on the checks he writes in Phoenix, Arizona ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Don Boyd 01-Jan-2009 02:53 Thank you Bess, I appreciate your comment. And I thank you for what you with your website too in preserving the memories of old Miami. Happy New Year! Anyone interested in the old Allapattah area should visit Bess' site at http://www.sneakykitchen.com Don ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Don Boyd 01-Jan-2009 02:50 Bess Metcalf posted this in another location: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Guest 01-Jan-2009 00:27 Your site has grown famously. Congratulations. Bess W. Metcalf http://www.sneakykitchen.com Allapattah resident ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Don Boyd 30-Dec-2008 05:31 Welcome to 2009! Please start posting all new comments and memories here starting on January 1st. Thanks! Don

Don Boyd		06-Jan-2009 17:48
And #2 from George Spofford: The Motherlode on Commodore Plaza "Drano" – once the "mayor" of the street in the Grove, he also was the Mango Strut Queen one year. Banjo Billy on Channel 10 in the morning When Channel 10 was WLBW Jumping Jack on weekday afternoons The White Baron on Channel Six WCIX When Burger King sold hot dogs Barry's "The Joint" clothing store in the Grove When downtown Burdines had an annual amusement park on its roof When Burdines had fashion show luncheons Joey Carr Austin Burke "Suits, suits and suits!" The Machine Shop (Pinball arcade) on Coral Way Biscayne Baby's in the Grove When Brickell Avenue had no high-rises! White Rock (had a fairy on the side of building) bottling plant where Mary and Tigertail intersect Deans in the Gables, meetup at 2 AM. Snowdens, great drive (or ride) down Old Culter, good beer and a game of pool! Trio Diner on 8th Street Danny Mahoney and the Last Word in the Grove The Pub, the Hamlet and Captian Dicks The Electirc Zoo Country Store restaurant Adam Turtle Bill Hutton's gallery that was a sand box! The Gaslight Cafe on Grand Ave Spanky and Our gang Vince Martin and Fred Neil Oz Bach The Grove House Cherry Smash at Lyle's - 5 cents Grove Corners on Main Hwy The Hawiian Shop on Main Highway Thrill Hill Meyer Lansky Tahiti Beach Sign of the Sandpiper Strawberry fields on Kendall Dr between Red Rd and 67 ave... (North side of street) La Casita Tea Room - Coconut Grove Burdines Jordan Marsh The lighthouse at the end of Poinciana Ave in the Grove Ann Bishop on WPLG, Ralph Renick on WTVJ Marjorie Stoneman Douglas Alice Wainwright Blaze Star - Burlesque queen in the 50's Carillon Hotel, Miami Beach The Florida Pharmacy Berts Grocery Store 5 & 10 next to Coconut Grove Elementary Dante Fascell Park Merry Christmas Park Land crabs in your front yard Hurricane parties The Doors concert at Dinner Key Auditorium When 'Saddle Shoes' were a fashion statement Birch Beer at Royal Castle Johnnie & Mack by the railroad track, the world's largest, and that's a fact! Jack O'Brien and Municipal Auto Sales commercials Western Sunset Bowl When Don Carter's was the ONLY thing on 137th & Kendall Drive When you could get a bucket of shrimp at Kentucky Fried Chicken Miami = "See it like a Native" ad campaign The Coppertone Girl on Biscayne Boulevard (recently moved back to 73rd and Biscayne) The MacArthur Dairy Boy licking his lips When there was a canal down the center of Miller Road "The Dungeon" with M.T. Graves on Saturday afternoon T.V. Bowl - O - Mat on US 1 St. Timothy's annual carnival The water tower in South Miami Heights The Jamaica Inn on Key Biscayne (prime rib on Saturday nights) When Quail Roost Drive was nothing but avocado groves Big Daddy's Lounge on US1 and Coral Reef Drive Daisy May's Barbeque on 8th Street When Black Point was the old shack store and there was nothing but shrimp boats there A&W Drive-In - served birch beer and the waitresses came out on roller skates The air raid sirens in South Miami The Holsum Bakery on US 1 and Red Road ...can ya still smell it? Polar Palace on 36th Street The old skinny rickety bridges to Key West Mike's Drug Store in the South Miami Heights Shopping Center Eureka Park 's little orange pumpkin Five year olds being able to walk to school on your own (I did) Gen & Wren's (it's the Shack now) Hurricane Donna The Flick Coffeehouse on Ponce by the UM The "dump" at the end of Eureka on Old Cutler Road W. T. Grants and Grant City (where the Best Buy is now on US 1 & Marlin Rd) "Hey, Culligan Man!" The water slide in Florida City Zayre on US 1 in "Pinecrest" where the Home Depot is now When "Pinecrest" was Sunniland The Tigertail Lounge in the Grove When there was a Winn Dixie where Cocowalk is now When Oak Avenue in the Grove had "head shops" When Flanigans was the Loggerhead and it had pool tables and didn't serve food Royal Castles everywhere! Birch beer and belly sliders (where the cops were) When you didn't have to pay to launch your boat at Matheson Hammock Jai Lai on US1 behind the Bowl - O - Mat Dixie Drive-In where the big Publix is now on US 1 Neisner's in the old Cutler Ridge strip mall When Mr. & Mrs. Burr owned everything on the west side of Burr Road and Mr. Mixon owned everything on the east side Camp Choee on Colonial and 117th Ave. Camp Mahachee by Matheson Hammock park Beefsteak Charlies on US 1 across from Bowl - O - Mat You could find shells in the water at Matheson Hammock wading beach Gooney golf at the Colonial Palms Course on US1 & 136th St Patty Murray on WGTR Larry King on WIOD Rick Shaw on WQAM The Dupont Plaza Hotel on the Miami River Monroe Station Jimmy's Hurricane and the Hurricane Cooler Hot Shoppes and the Orange Freeze, Teen Twist and Big Mo When Miami High was "the" high school The bowling alley at the end of Cutler Ridge strip mall (where Sears is now) The little walk-in movie theater in the back of Cutler Ridge 's strip mall Richards Dept Store Private camps in the everglades Pole beans and tomato farms on Kendall Drive (U-Pick-Em) When the Coconut Grove Arts Festival was free and you could actually buy something there The Trail Theater on Douglas/8th St The Tower Theater on 8th St / 15th Ave The Pizza Palace on 8th Street and it's "snowball" architecture Pizza Patio on Bird Road Roller skating waitresses and car-side service The Huddle House (at the corner of SW 8th St and 76th Ave before 826 cut it off) The Coral Way Drive-In down the street from the football stadium high schools played in Concord Shopping Center and Movie Theater Food Fair, Kwik Chek, and Super-X Drug stores Anthony Abraham's home in the Gables with the most amazing Christmas decorations When Kendall Drive was "the road to nowhere" Colonial Palms Golf Course on US 1 and SW 136th St When I-95 didn't reach here When "Miami 's Best Pizza" was the original "Little Caesar's" The Five & Dime Store at Coral Way and 27th Ave Parodi's Five & Dime Store on 8th Street The Glorified Delicatessen on Coral Way The Gold Star Deli on SW 8th Street The Pub Restaurant on Coral Way with Whitey as Host Richard Nixon's southern White House on Key Biscayne When Les Violins was a hot spot When the people on South Beach were older than the buildings WCIX - Channel 6 Big Wilson The original Holsum Bakery Christmas display in South Miami When Howard Schnellenberger was "king" of the University of Miami Canes The Serpentarium and Bill Haas "milking" all those snakes! The Australian Pines that lined the trail on the way to the Miccosoukee Tribe The Zoo at Crandon Park and it's kiddy rides The Hurricane Harbour Lounge The Silver Sands Motel on Key Biscayne Tahiti Beach for swimming during the day and making out at night Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick Zayre, Diskay, Woolworth, and Woolco in Westchester and what was then Midway Mall WFUN and WQAM were "THE" stations to listen to if your car only had an AM radio If you were lucky enough to have FM, you listened to Y-100 Lums and Jahn's were the places to go with your friends after football games Krispy Kreme across from the cemetery on 8th Street had the BEST doughnuts! Sambo's in the Gables across from Sears and their patty melts at 3 AM Sweden House (all you care to eat!) on Dixie Highway The Flame (also on Dixie ) Pumpernicks The Rascal House Fox's Sherron Inn for the prime ribs (still there!) When Tamiami Park was Tamiami Airport and there were cow pastures across the street The animated, talking cow in Dressels Dairy's ice cream parlor Toby the Robot and Scrubby on Skipper Chuck (Zink) The Copacabana Supper Club James McDuffie and Neville Johnson Johnnie Jones and gold plumbing Mercury Morris D'Pizza of UM Lou Saban and the Canes Murf the Surf A time when Frank Forte and Don Noe weren't on channel 10 Molly Turner and Alec Gibson Arthur Godfrey Show from Miami Beach When trains ran parallel to U.S. 1 (at ground level) The roller skating rink at South Dixie and SW 27th Ave When the 836 toll was 10 cents The Miami Marlins and the Ft. Lauderdale Yankees (AA teams) When FIU was a "Senior College" and the school's nickname was the "Sun Blazers" The Miami Daily News Miami Rowing Club Musa Isle village, the Seminole Indian Village on NW 27th ave. & the Miami River K-land on Kendall Drive The Ft. Lauderdale Strikers Flipper in the open end-zone at the Orange Bowl The rotating shark at the entrance to Key Biscayne The Seaquarium with Hugo the Killer whale When Crown Liquors got shot up Cocaine Cowboys Tent City Packer Pontiac Hurricane David and that masking tape that's still on all your windows Grand Union (the grand union of all good things) When the Norway was the largest cruise ship in the world When the Rusty Pelican burned down Dade County Junior College, then renamed to Miami-Dade Junior College The Coffee House on Douglas Rd The Lemon Twist The Monk's Inn The French Connection Monty Trainer's Village Inn Jordan Marsh Burdines and the playground on its roof Peaches Records and Tapes Ed 'mark em down' Lane on television selling used autos The Coca Cola Bottling company in the Grove Super Skating Centers and Tropical Skating Center National, Air Florida and Eastern Airlines Glen Rinker & Ralph Renick on TV Gator Kicks on Tamiami Trail When there was a grocery store in Dadeland Mall The Seahorse at Dadeland Mall When Dadeland Mall was open air! Gold Triangle across from Dadeland When "Footy's" name was "Athlete's Foot" Heiny Wine "The wine that made Medley, Medley" When the 94th Aero Squadron had good food The Tropicaire Drive in Theater When there was a Burdines at the Mayfair mall When the Mayfair Mall was a drive-in laundry When Centrust was Dade Federal Savings When SunTrust was Sun Bank First Federal Savings & Loan The Dadeland Twin Theater, the Riviera Theater, Gables Theater and the Coral Theater The Coconut Grove Playhouse Ivan Kivit's Merry-Go-Round Theater Gordons Docks The Coliseum Bowling : 1928 Opera House-Boxing - Wrestling - Ice/Roller - Skating Rink Indy car races at Tamiami Park The Hialeah Speedway with demolition derbys When Shorty's BBQ burned down When the Rickenbacker was a drawbridge - and cost 25 cents Biscayne Dog Track Campus Life Haunted House When the Youth Fair was at K-Land on Kendall Drive When the Mark IV was the best ride at the youth fair All the Dairy Farms west of where Miami International Airport sits today Uncle Gordon reading the Sunday funnies on the radio (at the Freedom Tower formerly the Miami Daily News Bldg.) The Skipper Chuck Show with Scrubby and Toby the Robot Miami Marine Stadium and Hydroplane races Velvet Creme Planet Ocean (now Mast Academy ) Monkey Jungle Parrot Jungle (moved to Watson Island) The Goodyear Blimp at Watson Island Chalk's Flying Service Club OZ Tom Thumbs in the Grove When the Mall of the Americas was Midway Mall Rory Sparrow Black Caesar's Forge Marcella's Mia Cucina Richards Department Store & Basement - Downtown Grant's Five and Dime - Downtown and outlying shopping centers Gesu Catholic Church Downtown Biscayne Restaurant - Downtown Olympia Theater Jimmy's Hurricane and the Hurricane Cooler Hot Shoppes and the Orange Freeze, Teen Twist and Big Mo The Big Wheel Ice Palace Ice Skating Rink on NW 36 St. Key West was a long, lonely trip, and the Key Lime Pie was 'real' The trips down to the Rod and Reel Club at Jewfish Creek on Key Largo The trips down to Everglades City The Red Diamond Italian Restaurant south of the Airport on Lejuene The El Bolero Restaurant When La Carreta only had one location George's Super Subs on 8th Street and 47th Ave Wolfie's and the Rascal House on Miami Beach Drag Races at Amelia Earhart Field Kelly's Hamburgers Drive-In (later Billy's Drive-In) on 79th St next to the North Bay Marina Dressels Dairy for ice cream and pony rides on a Sunday afternoon on Milam Dairy Road Sealtest ice cream parlor near Jimmys Hurricane on Bird Rd. Luskin's High Fidelity Lyle's Pharmacy Dixie Drive-in and the Japanese fish farm next door Lindsley Lumber Victoria and Abbey Hospitals Mercy Hospital on Biscayne Bay Malibu Grand Prix Jacksons, Byrons, Jackson-Byrons JByrons The rides on top of downtown Burdines each holiday season McCrory's Five and Dime - Downtown Sam the China Man Roland Your Hatter in the Seybold Bldg. Bayfront Auditorium with the Saturday Dances Bayfront Park and the Public Library there 5th Street Fishing Pier and Charter Boats - Downtown (where Bayside sits today) FunLand Park on NW 27th Ave Krome Avenue was wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy out in the sticks Seminole Indian huts out on Tamiami Trail that did not have Parabolic antennas sticking out Pan Am's seaplane hangers (where real live seaplanes took off many times a day) in the Grove Mansene's Spaghetti House The Studio Restaurant The Yorkshire The Hampshire Leonard La Pena's Steak House Fire Station # 1 across from the old Courthouse The Old Miami train station just across the street from the police dept. Coral Gables Bus station The Boys Club of Miami on 32nd Ave (before it became co-ed) Dairy Queen's with the curly cone on top and "flying saucer" ice cream A & W root beer joints Royal Castle Hamburgers The tennis courts at Coconut Grove park next to the basketball court Florida Pharmacy in the Grove AKA the "Fagacy" The Light House on Key Biscayne was a simple picnic place w/ NO Seawall Fair Isle was just that, an island where we snagged mullet and fished P. B. A. park on NW 14 St. Miami Senior High before air conditioning Biscayne Cafeteria in the Gables M and M cafeteria on SW 27 Ave and 8 St WQAM radio King Arthur's Court on 36 St. Big Daddy's Drag Races on Kendall and Krove Ave The Tropicaire Flea market Allen's Drugs at Red and Bird Road WINZ radio Scotty's Grocery in the Grove where tomatoes and artichokes were the size of your hand When Westchester was "out in the country...way outside of Miami ..." When there was NO FIU and then 'FIU in '72!" When Miami Coral Park Senior High School was predominantly Jewish Miles of strawberry fields on Kendall Drive after you passed 107th Avenue No Town & Country Mall on Kendall Drive No " West Kendall " at all The Hamlet bar on Main Hwy The little drive-in place that sold whisky at South Dixie and 27th Ave The little bait shop that sold beer at South Dixie and 17th Ave When Stiltsville was a seldom frequented place on the sand bars The LeJeune Drive In, where the Marriott is now When Widow McCoy's in the Grove was the hotspot for live jazz The Grove Movie Theatre and the midnight "Rocky Horror" shows every weekend All the funky shops on Grand Avenue before Cocowalk and Mayfair took over When there was no traffic on the Palmetto Expressway When Sweetwater was just trailers, small farms and houses on the other side of the canal When there was NO Midway Mall, International Mall, or Dolphin Mall Royal Ice Company on Douglas and US1 Great Value grocery store in Cutler Ridge , next to Dad's Hardware Breezeway Drive-In in Homestead Jefferson 's Dept Store; Useless 1 (US 1) or South Dixie Hwy Shaw's Nursery on US1 and Killian Dr Poe's Hardware on US1 and Lejeune Road Rhodes Brothers Club on US1 & 136th When Luria's Bird Bowl had a gas station When Tropical Park was a horse track Police Athletic League dances at Bird Road and 72nd When we had TV channels! 4 (CBS), 7 (NBC), 10 (ABC) and then 6 (WCIX) Bird Bowl & the skating rink Drink & Sink...all the skating & beer you can drink for $5...

Don Boyd		06-Jan-2009 17:47
I receive e-mail lists with oldies stuff from time to time and I'm going to post two that I received today from friends. A lot of the material has been commented on before or there are photos of the items mentioned on this site but they are worth repeating. From Ken Stringer: 1. YOU KNOW YOU GREW UP IN OLD MIAMI IF YOU REMEMBER..... When the Courthouse was the tallest building When US1 was only two lanes Pier 5 where you could buy fresh fish right off the boat When the people on South Beach were older than the buildings WCIX channel 6, or WAXY radio and Rick Shaw, or Zeta 4 Big Wilson Ralph Renick Howard Johnson's fried clams and ice cream The Jackie Gleason show with the June Taylor dancers Riddle Airlines Medley Speedway (also called the Palmetto Speedway) A & P grocery stores Planes spraying for fruit flies Bayfront Bandshell The Miami News When there was a grocery store in Dadeland Mall Grand Union, Kwik Chek, Stevens grocery stores When the Rusty Pelican burned down The Tropicaire Drive-In and swap meet The Ferris wheel atop Burdines downtown Jordan Marsh Riviera Theater and the Miracle Mile Theater National Airlines, Air Florida and Eastern Airlines Pan Am's airport at Dinner Key When the Rickenbacker was a drawbridge (only 25 cents) The Skipper Chuck Show and the Sunday Funnies Lindsley Lumber Zayre JByrons (also Jacksons, Byrons, and Jackson/Byrons) Hot Shoppes Paleys Big Wheel Crandon Park Zoo Johnny and Mack by the railroad track Sheehan Buick on 8th Street ... when it was called 8th Street Grentners Restaurant, The Flame, Dixie Bell Inn, The Depot Black Angus Restaurant at 104 street Holsum Bakery's wonderful smell of bread baking on US1 When Dadeland was an open-air mall When there was only a Gulf station on US 1 cross from Shorty's When Tamiami Airport was on the Tamiami Trail A&W Drive in restaurants Lums and their frozen schooners and wieners in beer The Village Inn The Playboy Clubs Big Daddy's Lounges Auto Inspections Roberts Western Wear and OK Feed Store The English Pub and Jamaican Inn on Key Biscayne Claude Pepper's picnics at Tropical Park Tropical Park when it was a racetrack South Miami Hospital when it was only one building. When they built Baptist Hospital When everyone thought the Turnpike Extension was built too far out When Coconut Grove was a hippie hangout Sam and Carl's Deli in S Miami Rock concerts at Miami Jai Alai stadium Sunniland Pony Rides Land Crabs on Old Cutler The diving board and dock at Matheson Hammock pond Barefoot Mailman at Dadeland Bill Haas and the Serpentarium Concerts at the Miami Marine Stadium Sunday country dancing at Alabama Jack's Tyler's Restaurants Live & Let Live drug store Engel's Drug Store in Grove When South Beach was just below 5th Street Food Fair and Pantry Pride Piggly Wiggly Fla. License with letters depicting the weight of the car (D was light weight, no letter was average, W was heavier than average and WW was the really heavyweights) The Miami Springs Villas Miami Seahawks pro football team Red Cross Drugs in downtown Miami King Arthur's Court in Miami Springs Men's Grill at Burdines Richard's Bargain Basement The Round Table restaurant on US1 near UM Royal Castle hamburgers @ 15 cents, root beer 5 cents Jimmy's Hurricane drive-in on Bird Black Caesar's Forge in South Dade "Yes, We Have No Bananas" Bus riding all over the county with paper transfers getting punched The black beach on Virginia Key Greynolds Park hill...the highest point in Dade County at the time Only three highways north: US 1, US 441 and US 27 Warning signs about roasting marshmallows with oleander sticks Cuban crisis; missile silos in ground all over south Dade All rental cars had E license tags Tags had number for county population size in 1950: Dade 1, Broward 10, Liberty 67 Chalk Airlines and Goodyear Blimp base on Watson Island Seasonal arrival of buzzard colonies atop Courthouse Burdines installing the state's first escalator The caves at Venetian Pool Absolutely nothing west of the airport Orange Bowl: HS football Thursday nights, UM Friday nights The par-54 night-lighted golf course on South Dixie Highway The paper man downtown who had no legs and rolled around on a piece of board and skate wheels. The shoeshine boys downtown near Richards Dept Store The huge Christmas display at the Holsum Baker on US1

Don Boyd		06-Jan-2009 17:45
Well somehow all the comments disappeared but I found them in a cached version of this gallery so I'm reposting them. I don't know what happened - some kind of glitch in PBase. Fortunately there were only a few days worth. Don ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ charlis 02-Jan-2009 23:19 don... never mind... I found the link to the guy and gave it to Evie. She has a t-shirt that the Beatles "signed"... she was at the event/interview. Happy New Year! charlis 02-Jan-2009 22:51 Don... lost your email address... Evie has some stuff from that party... she is in desperate need of money. Even has the German record, sealed. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Don Boyd 02-Jan-2009 04:15 Thank you Miami Girl and Roberta. Happy New Year! New photos added: a 1950's image of the Chesapeake Sea Food House (NW North River Drive and 36th Street) menu with a photo of the restaurant (restaurants gallery) and two images of a 1964 WQAM record that was released with their disk jockeys interviewing the Beatles (radio stations gallery). If anyone else has one of these records please send me an e-mail because a collector has some questions to ask about it. Don ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Miami Girl jlawinrome@twcny.rr.com 02-Jan-2009 00:50 LOVE THE NEW LOOK DON!!! As always, you're doing a fantastic job with this site. Even though I don't post comments very often I check it almost daily. Bet ya wish you were getting paid by the hour! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL. Miami Girl -- FREEZING in upstate NY and dreaming of those hot summer days gone by. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Roberta Perry Hughes robertah47@aol.com hide \| delete 01-Jan-2009 11:21 WOW!!! My, oh my, how we have grown on here!!! Don, the Galleries are fantastic!!The new Comments section is so pristine & brand-spanking-new!! Congratulations, on such a beautiful job, & such a wonderful gift, for all of us Old Miamians!! HAPPY NEW YEAR, to all of y'all...!! With greatest respect, & many, many thanks...!!! I am, most sincerely, Roberta, literally, chillin' out, in the CSRA, Peach State ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Arizona Al 01-Jan-2009 07:40 Bess Metcalf: Are you related to Bernie Metcalf from the Homestead area? Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and trying to remember to put 2009 on the checks he writes in Phoenix, Arizona ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Don Boyd 01-Jan-2009 02:53 Thank you Bess, I appreciate your comment. And I thank you for what you with your website too in preserving the memories of old Miami. Happy New Year! Anyone interested in the old Allapattah area should visit Bess' site at http://www.sneakykitchen.com Don ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Don Boyd 01-Jan-2009 02:50 Bess Metcalf posted this in another location: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Guest 01-Jan-2009 00:27 Your site has grown famously. Congratulations. Bess W. Metcalf http://www.sneakykitchen.com Allapattah resident ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Don Boyd 30-Dec-2008 05:31 Welcome to 2009! Please start posting all new comments and memories here starting on January 1st. Thanks! Don

Don Boyd		06-Jan-2009 17:31
I receive e-mail lists with oldies stuff from time to time and I'm going to post two that I received today from friends. A lot of the material has been commented on before or there are photos of the items mentioned on this site but they are worth repeating. From Ken Stringer: 1. YOU KNOW YOU GREW UP IN OLD MIAMI IF YOU REMEMBER..... When the Courthouse was the tallest building When US1 was only two lanes Pier 5 where you could buy fresh fish right off the boat When the people on South Beach were older than the buildings WCIX channel 6, or WAXY radio and Rick Shaw, or Zeta 4 Big Wilson Ralph Renick Howard Johnson's fried clams and ice cream The Jackie Gleason show with the June Taylor dancers Riddle Airlines Medley Speedway (also called the Palmetto Speedway) A & P grocery stores Planes spraying for fruit flies Bayfront Bandshell The Miami News When there was a grocery store in Dadeland Mall Grand Union, Kwik Chek, Stevens grocery stores When the Rusty Pelican burned down The Tropicaire Drive-In and swap meet The Ferris wheel atop Burdines downtown Jordan Marsh Riviera Theater and the Miracle Mile Theater National Airlines, Air Florida and Eastern Airlines Pan Am's airport at Dinner Key When the Rickenbacker was a drawbridge (only 25 cents) The Skipper Chuck Show and the Sunday Funnies Lindsley Lumber Zayre JByrons (also Jacksons, Byrons, and Jackson/Byrons) Hot Shoppes Paleys Big Wheel Crandon Park Zoo Johnny and Mack by the railroad track Sheehan Buick on 8th Street ... when it was called 8th Street Grentners Restaurant, The Flame, Dixie Bell Inn, The Depot Black Angus Restaurant at 104 street Holsum Bakery's wonderful smell of bread baking on US1 When Dadeland was an open-air mall When there was only a Gulf station on US 1 cross from Shorty's When Tamiami Airport was on the Tamiami Trail A&W Drive in restaurants Lums and their frozen schooners and wieners in beer The Village Inn The Playboy Clubs Big Daddy's Lounges Auto Inspections Roberts Western Wear and OK Feed Store The English Pub and Jamaican Inn on Key Biscayne Claude Pepper's picnics at Tropical Park Tropical Park when it was a racetrack South Miami Hospital when it was only one building. When they built Baptist Hospital When everyone thought the Turnpike Extension was built too far out When Coconut Grove was a hippie hangout Sam and Carl's Deli in S Miami Rock concerts at Miami Jai Alai stadium Sunniland Pony Rides Land Crabs on Old Cutler The diving board and dock at Matheson Hammock pond Barefoot Mailman at Dadeland Bill Haas and the Serpentarium Concerts at the Miami Marine Stadium Sunday country dancing at Alabama Jack's Tyler's Restaurants Live & Let Live drug store Engel's Drug Store in Grove When South Beach was just below 5th Street Food Fair and Pantry Pride Piggly Wiggly Fla. License with letters depicting the weight of the car (D was light weight, no letter was average, W was heavier than average and WW was the really heavyweights) The Miami Springs Villas Miami Seahawks pro football team Red Cross Drugs in downtown Miami King Arthur's Court in Miami Springs Men's Grill at Burdines Richard's Bargain Basement The Round Table restaurant on US1 near UM Royal Castle hamburgers @ 15 cents, root beer 5 cents Jimmy's Hurricane drive-in on Bird Black Caesar's Forge in South Dade "Yes, We Have No Bananas" Bus riding all over the county with paper transfers getting punched The black beach on Virginia Key Greynolds Park hill...the highest point in Dade County at the time Only three highways north: US 1, US 441 and US 27 Warning signs about roasting marshmallows with oleander sticks Cuban crisis; missile silos in ground all over south Dade All rental cars had E license tags Tags had number for county population size in 1950: Dade 1, Broward 10, Liberty 67 Chalk Airlines and Goodyear Blimp base on Watson Island Seasonal arrival of buzzard colonies atop Courthouse Burdines installing the state's first escalator The caves at Venetian Pool Absolutely nothing west of the airport Orange Bowl: HS football Thursday nights, UM Friday nights The par-54 night-lighted golf course on South Dixie Highway The paper man downtown who had no legs and rolled around on a piece of board and skate wheels. The shoeshine boys downtown near Richards Dept Store The huge Christmas display at the Holsum Baker on US1 2. From George Spofford: The Motherlode on Commodore Plaza "Drano" – once the "mayor" of the street in the Grove, he also was the Mango Strut Queen one year. Banjo Billy on Channel 10 in the morning When Channel 10 was WLBW Jumping Jack on weekday afternoons The White Baron on Channel Six WCIX When Burger King sold hot dogs Barry's "The Joint" clothing store in the Grove When downtown Burdines had an annual amusement park on its roof When Burdines had fashion show luncheons Joey Carr Austin Burke "Suits, suits and suits!" The Machine Shop (Pinball arcade) on Coral Way Biscayne Baby's in the Grove When Brickell Avenue had no high-rises! White Rock (had a fairy on the side of building) bottling plant where Mary and Tigertail intersect Deans in the Gables, meetup at 2 AM. Snowdens, great drive (or ride) down Old Culter, good beer and a game of pool! Trio Diner on 8th Street Danny Mahoney and the Last Word in the Grove The Pub, the Hamlet and Captian Dicks The Electirc Zoo Country Store restaurant Adam Turtle Bill Hutton's gallery that was a sand box! The Gaslight Cafe on Grand Ave Spanky and Our gang Vince Martin and Fred Neil Oz Bach The Grove House Cherry Smash at Lyle's - 5 cents Grove Corners on Main Hwy The Hawiian Shop on Main Highway Thrill Hill Meyer Lansky Tahiti Beach Sign of the Sandpiper Strawberry fields on Kendall Dr between Red Rd and 67 ave... (North side of street) La Casita Tea Room - Coconut Grove Burdines Jordan Marsh The lighthouse at the end of Poinciana Ave in the Grove Ann Bishop on WPLG, Ralph Renick on WTVJ Marjorie Stoneman Douglas Alice Wainwright Blaze Star - Burlesque queen in the 50's Carillon Hotel, Miami Beach The Florida Pharmacy Berts Grocery Store 5 & 10 next to Coconut Grove Elementary Dante Fascell Park Merry Christmas Park Land crabs in your front yard Hurricane parties The Doors concert at Dinner Key Auditorium When 'Saddle Shoes' were a fashion statement Birch Beer at Royal Castle Johnnie & Mack by the railroad track, the world's largest, and that's a fact! Jack O'Brien and Municipal Auto Sales commercials Western Sunset Bowl When Don Carter's was the ONLY thing on 137th & Kendall Drive When you could get a bucket of shrimp at Kentucky Fried Chicken Miami = "See it like a Native" ad campaign The Coppertone Girl on Biscayne Boulevard (recently moved back to 73rd and Biscayne) The MacArthur Dairy Boy licking his lips When there was a canal down the center of Miller Road "The Dungeon" with M.T. Graves on Saturday afternoon T.V. Bowl - O - Mat on US 1 St. Timothy's annual carnival The water tower in South Miami Heights The Jamaica Inn on Key Biscayne (prime rib on Saturday nights) When Quail Roost Drive was nothing but avocado groves Big Daddy's Lounge on US1 and Coral Reef Drive Daisy May's Barbeque on 8th Street When Black Point was the old shack store and there was nothing but shrimp boats there A&W Drive-In - served birch beer and the waitresses came out on roller skates The air raid sirens in South Miami The Holsum Bakery on US 1 and Red Road ...can ya still smell it? Polar Palace on 36th Street The old skinny rickety bridges to Key West Mike's Drug Store in the South Miami Heights Shopping Center Eureka Park 's little orange pumpkin Five year olds being able to walk to school on your own (I did) Gen & Wren's (it's the Shack now) Hurricane Donna The Flick Coffeehouse on Ponce by the UM The "dump" at the end of Eureka on Old Cutler Road W. T. Grants and Grant City (where the Best Buy is now on US 1 & Marlin Rd) "Hey, Culligan Man!" The water slide in Florida City Zayre on US 1 in "Pinecrest" where the Home Depot is now When "Pinecrest" was Sunniland The Tigertail Lounge in the Grove When there was a Winn Dixie where Cocowalk is now When Oak Avenue in the Grove had "head shops" When Flanigans was the Loggerhead and it had pool tables and didn't serve food Royal Castles everywhere! Birch beer and belly sliders (where the cops were) When you didn't have to pay to launch your boat at Matheson Hammock Jai Lai on US1 behind the Bowl - O - Mat Dixie Drive-In where the big Publix is now on US 1 Neisner's in the old Cutler Ridge strip mall When Mr. & Mrs. Burr owned everything on the west side of Burr Road and Mr. Mixon owned everything on the east side Camp Choee on Colonial and 117th Ave. Camp Mahachee by Matheson Hammock park Beefsteak Charlies on US 1 across from Bowl - O - Mat You could find shells in the water at Matheson Hammock wading beach Gooney golf at the Colonial Palms Course on US1 & 136th St Patty Murray on WGTR Larry King on WIOD Rick Shaw on WQAM The Dupont Plaza Hotel on the Miami River Monroe Station Jimmy's Hurricane and the Hurricane Cooler Hot Shoppes and the Orange Freeze, Teen Twist and Big Mo When Miami High was "the" high school The bowling alley at the end of Cutler Ridge strip mall (where Sears is now) The little walk-in movie theater in the back of Cutler Ridge 's strip mall Richards Dept Store Private camps in the everglades Pole beans and tomato farms on Kendall Drive (U-Pick-Em) When the Coconut Grove Arts Festival was free and you could actually buy something there The Trail Theater on Douglas/8th St The Tower Theater on 8th St / 15th Ave The Pizza Palace on 8th Street and it's "snowball" architecture Pizza Patio on Bird Road Roller skating waitresses and car-side service The Huddle House (at the corner of SW 8th St and 76th Ave before 826 cut it off) The Coral Way Drive-In down the street from the football stadium high schools played in Concord Shopping Center and Movie Theater Food Fair, Kwik Chek, and Super-X Drug stores Anthony Abraham's home in the Gables with the most amazing Christmas decorations When Kendall Drive was "the road to nowhere" Colonial Palms Golf Course on US 1 and SW 136th St When I-95 didn't reach here When "Miami 's Best Pizza" was the original "Little Caesar's" The Five & Dime Store at Coral Way and 27th Ave Parodi's Five & Dime Store on 8th Street The Glorified Delicatessen on Coral Way The Gold Star Deli on SW 8th Street The Pub Restaurant on Coral Way with Whitey as Host Richard Nixon's southern White House on Key Biscayne When Les Violins was a hot spot When the people on South Beach were older than the buildings WCIX - Channel 6 Big Wilson The original Holsum Bakery Christmas display in South Miami When Howard Schnellenberger was "king" of the University of Miami Canes The Serpentarium and Bill Haas "milking" all those snakes! The Australian Pines that lined the trail on the way to the Miccosoukee Tribe The Zoo at Crandon Park and it's kiddy rides The Hurricane Harbour Lounge The Silver Sands Motel on Key Biscayne Tahiti Beach for swimming during the day and making out at night Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick Zayre, Diskay, Woolworth, and Woolco in Westchester and what was then Midway Mall WFUN and WQAM were "THE" stations to listen to if your car only had an AM radio If you were lucky enough to have FM, you listened to Y-100 Lums and Jahn's were the places to go with your friends after football games Krispy Kreme across from the cemetery on 8th Street had the BEST doughnuts! Sambo's in the Gables across from Sears and their patty melts at 3 AM Sweden House (all you care to eat!) on Dixie Highway The Flame (also on Dixie ) Pumpernicks The Rascal House Fox's Sherron Inn for the prime ribs (still there!) When Tamiami Park was Tamiami Airport and there were cow pastures across the street The animated, talking cow in Dressels Dairy's ice cream parlor Toby the Robot and Scrubby on Skipper Chuck (Zink) The Copacabana Supper Club James McDuffie and Neville Johnson Johnnie Jones and gold plumbing Mercury Morris D'Pizza of UM Lou Saban and the Canes Murf the Surf A time when Frank Forte and Don Noe weren't on channel 10 Molly Turner and Alec Gibson Arthur Godfrey Show from Miami Beach When trains ran parallel to U.S. 1 (at ground level) The roller skating rink at South Dixie and SW 27th Ave When the 836 toll was 10 cents The Miami Marlins and the Ft. Lauderdale Yankees (AA teams) When FIU was a "Senior College" and the school's nickname was the "Sun Blazers" The Miami Daily News Miami Rowing Club Musa Isle village, the Seminole Indian Village on NW 27th ave. & the Miami River K-land on Kendall Drive The Ft. Lauderdale Strikers Flipper in the open end-zone at the Orange Bowl The rotating shark at the entrance to Key Biscayne The Seaquarium with Hugo the Killer whale When Crown Liquors got shot up Cocaine Cowboys Tent City Packer Pontiac Hurricane David and that masking tape that's still on all your windows Grand Union (the grand union of all good things) When the Norway was the largest cruise ship in the world When the Rusty Pelican burned down Dade County Junior College, then renamed to Miami-Dade Junior College The Coffee House on Douglas Rd The Lemon Twist The Monk's Inn The French Connection Monty Trainer's Village Inn Jordan Marsh Burdines and the playground on its roof Peaches Records and Tapes Ed 'mark em down' Lane on television selling used autos The Coca Cola Bottling company in the Grove Super Skating Centers and Tropical Skating Center National, Air Florida and Eastern Airlines Glen Rinker & Ralph Renick on TV Gator Kicks on Tamiami Trail When there was a grocery store in Dadeland Mall The Seahorse at Dadeland Mall When Dadeland Mall was open air! Gold Triangle across from Dadeland When "Footy's" name was "Athlete's Foot" Heiny Wine "The wine that made Medley, Medley" When the 94th Aero Squadron had good food The Tropicaire Drive in Theater When there was a Burdines at the Mayfair mall When the Mayfair Mall was a drive-in laundry When Centrust was Dade Federal Savings When SunTrust was Sun Bank First Federal Savings & Loan The Dadeland Twin Theater, the Riviera Theater, Gables Theater and the Coral Theater The Coconut Grove Playhouse Ivan Kivit's Merry-Go-Round Theater Gordons Docks The Coliseum Bowling : 1928 Opera House-Boxing - Wrestling - Ice/Roller - Skating Rink Indy car races at Tamiami Park The Hialeah Speedway with demolition derbys When Shorty's BBQ burned down When the Rickenbacker was a drawbridge - and cost 25 cents Biscayne Dog Track Campus Life Haunted House When the Youth Fair was at K-Land on Kendall Drive When the Mark IV was the best ride at the youth fair All the Dairy Farms west of where Miami International Airport sits today Uncle Gordon reading the Sunday funnies on the radio (at the Freedom Tower formerly the Miami Daily News Bldg.) The Skipper Chuck Show with Scrubby and Toby the Robot Miami Marine Stadium and Hydroplane races Velvet Creme Planet Ocean (now Mast Academy ) Monkey Jungle Parrot Jungle (moved to Watson Island) The Goodyear Blimp at Watson Island Chalk's Flying Service Club OZ Tom Thumbs in the Grove When the Mall of the Americas was Midway Mall Rory Sparrow Black Caesar's Forge Marcella's Mia Cucina Richards Department Store & Basement - Downtown Grant's Five and Dime - Downtown and outlying shopping centers Gesu Catholic Church Downtown Biscayne Restaurant - Downtown Olympia Theater Jimmy's Hurricane and the Hurricane Cooler Hot Shoppes and the Orange Freeze, Teen Twist and Big Mo The Big Wheel Ice Palace Ice Skating Rink on NW 36 St. Key West was a long, lonely trip, and the Key Lime Pie was 'real' The trips down to the Rod and Reel Club at Jewfish Creek on Key Largo The trips down to Everglades City The Red Diamond Italian Restaurant south of the Airport on Lejuene The El Bolero Restaurant When La Carreta only had one location George's Super Subs on 8th Street and 47th Ave Wolfie's and the Rascal House on Miami Beach Drag Races at Amelia Earhart Field Kelly's Hamburgers Drive-In (later Billy's Drive-In) on 79th St next to the North Bay Marina Dressels Dairy for ice cream and pony rides on a Sunday afternoon on Milam Dairy Road Sealtest ice cream parlor near Jimmys Hurricane on Bird Rd. Luskin's High Fidelity Lyle's Pharmacy Dixie Drive-in and the Japanese fish farm next door Lindsley Lumber Victoria and Abbey Hospitals Mercy Hospital on Biscayne Bay Malibu Grand Prix Jacksons, Byrons, Jackson-Byrons JByrons The rides on top of downtown Burdines each holiday season McCrory's Five and Dime - Downtown Sam the China Man Roland Your Hatter in the Seybold Bldg. Bayfront Auditorium with the Saturday Dances Bayfront Park and the Public Library there 5th Street Fishing Pier and Charter Boats - Downtown (where Bayside sits today) FunLand Park on NW 27th Ave Krome Avenue was wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy out in the sticks Seminole Indian huts out on Tamiami Trail that did not have Parabolic antennas sticking out Pan Am's seaplane hangers (where real live seaplanes took off many times a day) in the Grove Mansene's Spaghetti House The Studio Restaurant The Yorkshire The Hampshire Leonard La Pena's Steak House Fire Station # 1 across from the old Courthouse The Old Miami train station just across the street from the police dept. Coral Gables Bus station The Boys Club of Miami on 32nd Ave (before it became co-ed) Dairy Queen's with the curly cone on top and "flying saucer" ice cream A & W root beer joints Royal Castle Hamburgers The tennis courts at Coconut Grove park next to the basketball court Florida Pharmacy in the Grove AKA the "Fagacy" The Light House on Key Biscayne was a simple picnic place w/ NO Seawall Fair Isle was just that, an island where we snagged mullet and fished P. B. A. park on NW 14 St. Miami Senior High before air conditioning Biscayne Cafeteria in the Gables M and M cafeteria on SW 27 Ave and 8 St WQAM radio King Arthur's Court on 36 St. Big Daddy's Drag Races on Kendall and Krove Ave The Tropicaire Flea market Allen's Drugs at Red and Bird Road WINZ radio Scotty's Grocery in the Grove where tomatoes and artichokes were the size of your hand When Westchester was "out in the country...way outside of Miami ..." When there was NO FIU and then 'FIU in '72!" When Miami Coral Park Senior High School was predominantly Jewish Miles of strawberry fields on Kendall Drive after you passed 107th Avenue No Town & Country Mall on Kendall Drive No " West Kendall " at all The Hamlet bar on Main Hwy The little drive-in place that sold whisky at South Dixie and 27th Ave The little bait shop that sold beer at South Dixie and 17th Ave When Stiltsville was a seldom frequented place on the sand bars The LeJeune Drive In, where the Marriott is now When Widow McCoy's in the Grove was the hotspot for live jazz The Grove Movie Theatre and the midnight "Rocky Horror" shows every weekend All the funky shops on Grand Avenue before Cocowalk and Mayfair took over When there was no traffic on the Palmetto Expressway When Sweetwater was just trailers, small farms and houses on the other side of the canal When there was NO Midway Mall, International Mall, or Dolphin Mall Royal Ice Company on Douglas and US1 Great Value grocery store in Cutler Ridge , next to Dad's Hardware Breezeway Drive-In in Homestead Jefferson 's Dept Store; Useless 1 (US 1) or South Dixie Hwy Shaw's Nursery on US1 and Killian Dr Poe's Hardware on US1 and Lejeune Road Rhodes Brothers Club on US1 & 136th When Luria's Bird Bowl had a gas station When Tropical Park was a horse track Police Athletic League dances at Bird Road and 72nd When we had TV channels! 4 (CBS), 7 (NBC), 10 (ABC) and then 6 (WCIX) Bird Bowl & the skating rink Drink & Sink...all the skating & beer you can drink for $5...

charlis		02-Jan-2009 23:19
don... never mind... I found the link to the guy and gave it to Evie. She has a t-shirt that the Beatles "signed"... she was at the event/interview. Happy New Year!

charlis		02-Jan-2009 22:51
Don... lost your email address... Evie has some stuff from that party... she is in desperate need of money. Even has the German record, sealed.

Don Boyd		02-Jan-2009 04:15
Thank you Miami Girl and Roberta. Happy New Year! New photos added: a 1950's image of the Chesapeake Sea Food House (NW North River Drive and 36th Street) menu with a photo of the restaurant (restaurants gallery) and two images of a 1964 WQAM record that was released with their disk jockeys interviewing the Beatles (radio stations gallery). If anyone else has one of these records please send me an e-mail because a collector has some questions to ask about it. Don

Miami Girl		02-Jan-2009 00:50
LOVE THE NEW LOOK DON!!! As always, you're doing a fantastic job with this site. Even though I don't post comments very often I check it almost daily. Bet ya wish you were getting paid by the hour! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL. Miami Girl -- FREEZING in upstate NY and dreaming of those hot summer days gone by.

Roberta Perry Hughes		01-Jan-2009 11:21
WOW!!! My, oh my, how we have grown on here!!! Don, the Galleries are fantastic!!The new Comments section is so pristine & brand-spanking-new!! Congratulations, on such a beautiful job, & such a wonderful gift, for all of us Old Miamians!! HAPPY NEW YEAR, to all of y'all...!! With greatest respect, & many, many thanks...!!! I am, most sincerely, Roberta, literally, chillin' out, in the CSRA, Peach State

Arizona Al		01-Jan-2009 07:40
Bess Metcalf: Are you related to Bernie Metcalf from the Homestead area? Alan Ogus, Ph.D. Alive, well and trying to remember to put 2009 on the checks he writes in Phoenix, Arizona

Don Boyd		01-Jan-2009 02:53
Thank you Bess, I appreciate your comment. And I thank you for what you with your website too in preserving the memories of old Miami. Happy New Year! Anyone interested in the old Allapattah area should visit Bess' site at http://www.sneakykitchen.com Don

Don Boyd		01-Jan-2009 02:50
Bess Metcalf posted this in another location: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Guest 01-Jan-2009 00:27 Your site has grown famously. Congratulations. Bess W. Metcalf http://www.sneakykitchen.com Allapattah resident ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Don Boyd		30-Dec-2008 05:31
Welcome to 2009! Please start posting all new comments and memories here starting on January 1st. Thanks! Don

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