portending the height of hurricane season

A very common South American epiphite, the annual flowering Flaming Torch, sometimes referred to as Florida's "hurricane bromeliad", signals our peak storm season. Deep green leaves of this bromeliad have a sharp toothed edge, with a rosette pattern that forms a water-cup - a happy home for tons of mosquito larvae and the occasional frog. The noted flowering inflorescene is torch-like with little to no scent. Overall, an intense reminder for all to be aware.

"To Mary ........

For Mary .....

 

a half day (almost full)

Took the motorbike out east, and decided to stop at a friend's studio. I once worked for this young man's father.

A hundred or more mile loop, maybe longer - while stopping for ribs, beans and some fried okra. Surprised later, when I came home to my wife's home-cooked tuna fish casserole, around 4:00, still sitting warm, atop the stove top.

A Chuck Close portrait of Chuck's then artist buddy - my old employer, John Chamberlain - framed, while lounging at Duncan Chamberlain's out-east studio.

sorely needed

"In the past year, the CDC has recorded a 28 percent increase in the use of the Baker Act in Florida - the involuntary admission of patients to psychiatric facilities as a result of being a threat to themselves or others."   Sarasota Magazine, Allison Forsyth, June 22, 2021

Sorely needed;  Sarasota Memorial’s New Behavioral Healthcare Pavilion. A 96,000-square-foot, 82-bed facility to be completed by the fall of 2023.

revisiting old biker joints

"A sunny place for shady people" - over the years the motto for Will's Honky Tonk. Years ago, Will sold the place, name and all, moved his biker bar down the road and aptly renamed it, Stragglers.  I prefer "stranglers".

summer skies

July 5th, rolling storm

8:20 to 8:25 pm 

 

 

Showtime