Dave Gapinski Travels 2020-2023

2023

Thursday January 19, 2023

WEATHER: 38 degrees and drizzle in Milwaukee 59 degrees and partly cloudy in Sand Diego Sunrise: 0718 Milwaukee Sunset: 1709 San Diego

TRAVEL: Fly DELTA - Milwaukee-Atlanta-San Diego - Left MKE at 0713 CST Arrived SAN 1320 PST Cab ride from the airport to the hotel cost $20 including tip.

HAMPTON INN, 1531 Pacific Highway, San Diego - a King study -standard room on points. One block from the bay and a 10 minute walk to the cruise ship terminal pier.

San Diego Walking Tour: Gas Lamp, Little Italy, Marina District - a
3.8-mile loop trail near San Diego, California. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 10 min to complete – took me 2 hours – of course I had t walk entirely around PETCO Park which is not on the trail – probably closer to a 5 mile – 2 hour walk. The highlights of the walking tour are numbered below.

On line Free Trail for 7 days – All Trails – Got it for the map – then dropped it immediately – not worth the cost.

PETCO Park

Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres, opened in downtown San Diego in 2004 and immediately became known as “The world’s best ballpark in America’s finest city” I think they obviously forgot about Miller Park. It can offer views of San Diego Bay and the San Diego skyline, and there are a dazzling array of venue options. Petco Park is advertised as the ultimate setting for an unforgettable event, the walk around the park was forgettable – I couldn’t even find a team store.

This was about a 2 mile walk from the Hampton Inn. It’s located at the south end of the Gas Lamp Quarter. I could have taken the MTS (Metropolitan Transit System) train. The train also goes north to Old Town.

Of all the ballparks that I have visited I’ve never taken a ballpark tour. I was planning to take the tour on Saturday – NOT.

Historic Gas Lamp Quarter - San Diego

Gas Lamp Quarter, San Diego - San Diego might be more famous for much newer
attractions, but some of the most eclectic dining and entertainment options are in the city’s Gaslamp Quarter, right in the middle of Downtown San Diego. The Quarter has maintained its historic character after an extensive late 20th Century refurbishment, with buildings dating back as early as the 1850s. Overall, it’s one of the best-preserved neighborhoods featuring Victorian Era architecture in the U.S. This is California, so of course, their are no gas lamps - the current administration is thinking of banning gas stoves.

Downtown San Diego is a living tribute to history and revitalization. The Gaslamp Quarter followed up its boisterous boomtown years-the late 1800s, when Wyatt Earp ran gambling halls and sailors frequented brothels lining 4th and 5th Avenues-with a long stint of seediness, emerging only recently as a glamorous place to live and play. Little Italy, once a bustling Italian fishing neighborhood, got a fresh start when the city took its cause to heart.

1. William Heath -Davis House. This wooden structure stands as the oldest in modern downtown San Diego. Built in 1850, the William Heath Davis House was just one of many similar homes littered throughout the area in Davis’ attempt to colonize San Diego. – never found it

There were a number of
Cigar Bars on 5th Avenue
This Cigar Store Indian catch my eye

2. Architecture Along 5^th Avenue. The nine blocks of Fifth Avenue (between Broadway
St to the North and Harbor Drive to the South) form the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter providing a unique pocket of Victorian, Italian Renaissance, and Spanish Revival architecture surrounded by an eclectic mix of contemporary buildings.

3. 3. Spencer Ogden Building, 770 5^th Avenue. This is the oldest structure in the Gaslamp Quarter to be owned continuously by the same family. In 1881, Spencer and Ogden purchased the building from Charles de Leval, and it remained with the Ogden family. The second floor was added in 1885, and the original ironwork of this French Renaissance-style building was replaced with newer material. One of the early tenants was a dentist who attempted to make fireworks, and blew away part of the second floor in 1887. The building is the location for The Bitter End, a bar, and other tenants. – must have missed it

This is an internet photo
of the Keating - internet says
its Closed Permanently
so much for the Gas Lamp District

4. Keating Building, 432 F Street. The Keating Building, also known as The Keating
Hotel, is a 35-room luxury boutique hotel in San Diego. Located in the center of the Gas Lamp Quarter, the Keating is located near the San Diego Convention Center, Balboa Theater and Petco Park. It is a five-story Romanesque Revival style building, built as an office building with then modern conveniences of steam heat and a wire cage elevator, in 1890. It was designed by George J. Keating and was completed by the Reid Brothers after Keating's death. The San Diego Savings Bank occupied the corner space in the building from 1893 to about 1912, and its old safe was still in the building in 1980. In the 2000s its interior was redesigned by Pininfarina and in 2007 it was re-opened as the Keating Hotel.^[

5. Marston Building, 809 5^th Avenue. Marston's was a department store based in San Diego, California, and founded by city leader George Marston. It had a downtown main store on Sixth Street and opened two suburban branches before being sold to The Broadway in 1961.

6. US Grant Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in downtown San Diego operating under a franchise of Marriott International as part of their Luxury Collection Brand. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is 11 stories high and has 270 guest rooms in addition to meeting rooms and multiple ballrooms. This place was under exterior renovation. Walked under scaffolds.
Historic Santa Fe Depot

7. Santa Fe Depot. A union station built by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway to replace the small Victorian style structure erected in 1887 for the California Southern Railroad Company. The Spanish Colonial Revival style station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places Its architecture, particularly the signature twin domes, is often echoed in the design of modern buildings in Downtown San Diego.

8. Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.

Stone Brewing Tap Room
I sat inside but the gas fire pits were a nice warm touch

Stone Brewing Tap Room, 1202 Kettner Blvd, San Diego – pleasant atmosphere, good pale ale – enjoyed the beverage – Stone Buoy Pale Ale.

Bar One, 1532 India St, San Diego – not impressed with the beer or the service – wanted to eat here but the bartender’s lack of service convinced me not to.

9.

9. Little Italy. A chic, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, packed with trendy cocktail bars, brewpubs and restaurants with bustling patios. Upscale clothing boutiques, indie music venues and quaint piazzas dot the area, while the weekly Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market draws crowds to its mix of produce, gourmet food and craft stalls. The green lawns of Waterfront Park have fountains, and offer views of the bay.

Burger Lounge

Burger Lounge, 1608 India St, San Diego – hardly a lounge, but an establishment on a corner – served 3 kinds of beer – I tried a 14 oz Buenaveza – tasted liked Miller Lite. The SOB burger was good – ate the whole thing. The place had all its doors open – it was cool inside and too cool to site outside.

Friday January 20, 2023

WEATHER: 49 at 6:15 clear skies, forecast high of 60 degrees and sunny

Sunrise: 0649 San Diego Sunset: 1707 San Diego

TRAVEL: San Diego downtown

Disney Cruise Ship "Wonder" docked at the pier where I will get on the "Zaandam"
This probably the closest I'll ever be to a Disney cruise ship

"Star of India" docked in San Diego Bay
next to the Brigantine Oyster Bar

USS Midway

USS Midway Museum - The USS Midway was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the 20th century. Named after the climactic Battle of Midway of June 1942, Midway was built in only 17 months, but missed World War II by one week when commissioned on September 10, 1945. Midway was the first in a three-ship class of large carriers that featured an armored flight deck and a powerful air group of 120 planes.

This movie was outstanding.
Explaining the Battle of
Midway in 20 minutes

From the beginning of its service, the Midway played key roles in the Cold War. In 1946 it became the first American carrier to operate in the midwinter sub-Arctic, developing new flight deck procedures. The following year Midway became the only ship to launch a captured German V-2 rocket. The trial’s success became the dawn of naval missile warfare. Just two years after that, Midway sent a large patrol plane aloft to demonstrate that atomic bombs could be delivered by a carrier.

These six minutes during the Battle of Midway probably changed the outcome of WW II

Midway served with the Atlantic Fleet for ten years, making seven deployments to European waters, patrolling “the soft underbelly” of NATO. A round-the-world cruise took Midway to the west coast in 1955, where it was rebuilt with an angled deck to improve jet operations.

Midway’s first combat deployment came in 1965 flying strikes against North Vietnam. Midway aircraft shot down three MiGs, including the first air kill of the war. However, 17 Midway aircraft were lost to enemy fire during this cruise. In 1966 Midway was decommissioned for a four-year overhaul.

Over a chaotic two day period during the fall of Saigon in April 1975, Midway was a floating base for large Air Force helicopters which evacuated more than 3,000 desperate refugees during Operation Frequent Wind.

As potential threats to the Arabian oil supply grew, and to relieve strain on U. S.-based carriers, Midway transferred to Yokosuka, Japan, making it the first American carrier home ported abroad.

Provided to veterans

In 1990 Midway deployed to the Persian Gulf in response to the Iraqi seizure of Kuwait. In the ensuing Operation Desert Storm, Midway served as the flagship for naval air forces in the Gulf and launched more than 3,000 combat missions with no losses. Its final mission was the evacuation of civilian personnel from Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines after the20th century’s largest eruption of nearby Mount Pinatubo.

On April 11, 1992 the Midway was decommissioned in San Diego and remained in storage in Bremerton, Washington until 2003 when it was donated to the 501(c)3 nonprofit San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum organization. It opened as the USS Midway Museum in June 2004

I got a laugh out of this.
A recruiting poster for volunteers

The Museum is open 10 am -5 pm has four viewing areas: Admission is $30; $21 for veterans. Overall I spent more than 5 ½ hours on the ship (boarded at 1100 and disembarked just at 1625. Easily could have spent another hour or so on the ship. This was/is the highlight of San Diego. I don't think I can explain all of this with words or pcitures. You have to make the visit yourself.

Hanger Deck – free audio tour headset, a film about the Battle of Midway, interactive exhibits, bookstore and gift shop on the fan tail. Plenty of docents.

Below Decks – this self-guided tour was extensive covering several decks - the ward room, medical, dental, engine room, communications center, kitchens, mess halls, post office, crew quarters, admiral’s quarters, captain’s quarters, and officers quarters. Knowledgeable docents were almost always available to answer questions.

The "Bowling Alley"

A great self-guided tour
A second day stamp was offered
if you don't see the the whole ship
in a day

This 'bunk layout' interested me. My Dad
had a lot of these ties -I didn't realize until
now that they were used to stow his gear.

Engine Room - turbines

If I were an engineer - I think this entire tour would be heaven -
a marvel of design and engineering

Desert Storm - Command & Control
'echelons above reality'

Desert Storm - Day One Target Map

Desert Storm - Operations Map

The board set up for the Gulf War's
Operation Desert Storm Task Force - Note the
battleships for NG - USS Wisconsin and
USS Missouri

This was a room adjacent to the
Communication Center - I recognized
an AN/GR-26 radio - I learned how to
repair it as an Army Radio Repairman -
in 1971 at Ft. Gordon, GA
it was used for teletypes -
yes of course this is the repair room

A view of the Fleet Admiral's
Combat Information Control Center

The Trap & Cat talks were done by retired Navy pilots,
as were the docent guided tours of the island/bridge tour

Flight Deck – docent guided tours and lectures on deck by former Navy pilots – each as
cocky as the next. The pilots wore yellow hats. I learned a lot.

Aircraft Gallery – the flight deck had over 30 restored aircraft and helicopters. An enthusiast could spend hours - just here. I was more interested in the workings of the ship.

All landings are
filmed

This is where the
Air Boss sits
His 'right hand man'
is called the "Mini"
This docent was a
retired Navy Cdr (05)
pilot

A US Navy Destroyer in San Diego Bay - as viewed from the bridge of the USS Midway

Bridge of the USS Midway

USS Midway

Below are the Brigantine Oyster Bar view from the inside - nice place - on the right is the Queensland Public House. I was thinking steak at a steak place, decided on fish at Queensland and ended up eating mac& cheese - only ate half of it - too crusty and not very cheesy.

Queensland Public House

Brigantine Oyster Bar

Saturday January 21, 2023

WEATHER: 44 at 7 am forecast high of 62, clear and sunny

Sunrise: 0649 San Diego Sunset: 1710 San Diego

TRAVEL: Walked from the Hampton Inn to the dock, boarded the Zaandam, disembarked from San Diego at 1600

Spent the morning labeling pictures and updating the blog since I will be without the internet for the next 14 days.

HOLLAND AMERICA – Zaandam

GUESTs 1,432

LENGTH 781 ft.

WIDTH 105.8 ft.

Zaandam

Designed to carry fewer guests while offering greater space, Zaandam is elegant and comfortable. Her décor is inspired by music and features musical instruments including signed guitars from Queen, Iggy Pop, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones and a Baroque-style pipe organ. While on-board, enjoy regional cooking demonstrations and food and wine tastings with Port to Table. Rejuvenate at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon. Indulge at any of our fine dining venues.

My Stateroom is 3379, located midships, starboard side, on the Lower Promenade Deck, approximately, 140-319 sq. ft. These staterooms feature a partial sea view and include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed (the room is usually set up as a queen I have the steward convert it into two beds) — Holland America’s Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus premium massage shower heads and a variety of amenities.

My cruise - but follow the arrows backwards from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale.
Only 5 stops Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco, Puerto Quetzal, Cartegena and Half Moon Cay.

CRUISE ITINERARY

Sat Jan 21 San Diego, CA Depart 4 pm

Sun Jan 22 At Sea

Mon Jan 23 At Sea

Tue Jan 24 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Arrive 7 am Depart 3 pm

Wed Jan 25 At Sea

Thu Jan 26 Huatulco, Mexico Arrive 8 am Depart 2 pm

Fri Jan 27 Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala Arrive 10 am Depart 7 pm

Sat Jan 28 At Sea

Sun Jan 29 At Sea

Mon Jan 30 Enter Panama Canal Arrive 5 am Depart 5 am

Cruising Panama Canal

Exit Panama Canal Arrive 3 pm Depart 3 pm

Tue Jan 31 Cartegena, Columbia Arrive 12 pm Depart 6pm

Wed Feb 1 At Sea

Thu Feb 2 At Sea

Fri Feb 3 Half Moon Cay, Bahamas Arrive 8 am Depart 3 pm

Sat Feb 4 Fort Lauderdale, Florida Arrive 7 am

It took me a while to remember but I sailed on the MS Zaandam before. My 1^st cruise with Holland America from Seward, AK to Vancouver, CA (July 2-29, 2017)was on the MS Zaandam. It is smaller than the other ships of the Holland America fleet that I’ve sailed on i.e. the HM Zuiderdam (Caribbean-Feb7-18, 2018), the MS Nieuw Statendam (Caribbean-Mar 24-31, 2019), and the MS Koningsdam (Caribbean-Feb12-23, 2020). The décor is inspired by music and features musical instruments including signed guitars from Queen, Iggy Pop, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones and a Baroque-style pipe organ. While on-board, there are regional cooking demonstrations and food and wine tastings with Port to Table. Rejuvenate at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon. There are several fine dining venues. It offers several Entertainment venues: to include Step One Dance Group, comedy, magic shows and BBC Earth.:

There are a myriad of activities listed on a program daily both print and on the HA Navigator App. I’ll only list those that I attended.

1630 Ocean Bar – the Johnny Walker Black went down amazingly smooth

1730 DINING ROOM – Casual Dress - decided to see who I may meet at dinner – will start with a salad, maybe a glass of Merlot and Lasagna - A Welcome Aboard Steak Dinner was also offered in the Lido Market. Dinner for Jim, Michael and Nora from Arlington Heights, IL. Pleasant conversation and a good dinner.

1930 SINGLE & SOLO TRAVELERS MEETUP – Crows Nest 9 – Finished a dinner of Caesar salad, Lasagna and lemon torte about 1915 – returned to the Ocean Bar – listened to some boastful ex-1SG (or so he claimed) who had been everywhere – this guy had so much BS I wondered what he really did – I listened – didn’t challenge.

2000 EXC TALK: ORIGIN STORY – World Stage 4&5 – A history of Holland Amerika Linj from the late 1800’s through two World Wars and up to today. Lasted about 1 hours a good presentation.

Sunday January 22, 2023

WEATHER: 58 degrees at 0600 and dark, the temperature is on the HA Navigator App, I’ll have to explore the ship a little more for sunrise and sunset times – this may be hard because the ship is almost always moving. High of 68 at 1500.

TRAVEL: At Sea

MS ZAAMDAM – a program of daily activities is published daily and left in your cabin the night before.

CLOCKS SET FORWARD ONE HOUR at 0200 to MST

Fr. McCormick

Walked the deck 4x for 1.14 miles

0800 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 Holland America is probably the only cruise line that provides free passage on cruises for priests in exchange for their saying daily mass. The vestments are provided by the Apostolate of the Seas. The priest on this cruise if Fr. Joe McCormick, OSA, an Augustinian, pastor of St. Bernard Parish, Homer Glen, IL. When at sea mass is at 8am when in a port mas is at 5pm.

Ryan & the Staff Captain

0900 COFFEE WITH RYAN – World Stage 4&5 Ryan is the Cruise Director, today his guest was the Staff Captain (second in command XO) of the Zaandam. Basically a Q&A format. There are always those who seem to have a boatload of questions (spring-butts) . . . . lots of questions to him about the canal – some I think were just trying to catch him - I did learn something, this guy’s scariest moment at sea was being caught in a CAT 5 hurricane when the ship was hit by 2 rouge waves in succession i.e. the boat really didn’t get a chance to right itself after the first and the list was 25 degrees – scary because a list of 33 degrees will put the Promenade deck awash – and as he said, if that happens ‘it’s over’.

Zaamdam's Pipe
Organ in the Atrium

1000 SHORE EXCUSIONS TALK & WHAT TO DO & SEE ASHORE – World Stage 4&5 nothing new here – I’ve already chosen and paid for my shore excursions.

1300 ZAANDAM’S PIPE ORGAN PLAYS – Atrium 3 - this was hardly worth the visit – a
unique and different sound but as far as I could tell it was automated

Too cool to lay out in the sun – continued to read “Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of The Battle of Thermopylae” - Explorations Café 5

1600 HAPPY HOUR – Crow’s Nest 9 - 50% off drinks- two Lite's

1730 DINING ROOM – Dress Dressy escargots, filet and a strawberry with ice cream and Grand Marnier for dessert. Also had a glass of Pinot Noir

1900 THE MAGIC OF SCOTT PIPER – World Stage - a magician – entertaining -

Laphroig
'gasoline' scotch
from Isley - my advice
avoid it

OCEAN BAR for a Drambuie – I sat at the end of the bar, the bartender remembered my name - there were a couple of guys to my right – discussing Scotch – one mentions that a green bottle at the end on the top shelf is the most disgusting thing he ever tasted – “gasoline” – not even sure what it was called - the guy next to him (on his way to well maybe inebriated) orders 4 of these for himself and three of us at the bar – it was disgusting – a single malt Scotch from Islay that didn’t ever smell like Scotch – maybe ‘peaty’ – moonshine is must better - this was like fuel oil – another day at the bar on a cruise.

Monday January 23, 2023

WEATHER: 62 and scattered clouds at 0500, Sunrise: At Sea Sunset: At Sea

TRAVEL: At Sea, still sailing SE at 19 knots, will pass the tip of Lower Baja California today – another day of calm seas -i.e. 3-5 ft waves no motion really recognizable wind is still at the stern

Holland America
Logo

MS ZAAMDAM – Holland America also has an app that works with the ships on board WIFI – it is not connected to the internet – but I did download it on the net prior to boarding. Navigator has daily dinning menus, the daily schedule and you can add or subtract activities to a daily planner. It also provides you access to your boarding pass, excursion tickets purchased from Holland America, the ability to make reservations at the specialty restaurants for activities and a current tab of your account.

CLOCKS SET FORWARD ONE HOUR at 0200 CST

Walked the deck 5x for 1.42 miles – still dark out

0800 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 - mass with Fr. McCormick

Read 2 chapters of “Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of The Battle of Thermopylae” - Explorations Café 5 the Classical Duo (violin & piano) was practicing.

Beer Tasting

1300 INTERNATIONAL BEER TASTING – Mix 5 This cost $15 - Anne Marie, the bartender at the Crow’s Nest was in charge of the event The 4 international beers were not what I expected – no Heineken – but Newcastle (English brown ale), a German wheat, Dos Equis (Mexican pilsner lager) and Guinness Stout (Irish of course).

1300 MILITARY MEETUP – Captains Corner Crow’s Nest thought I’d try this to see how much BS is floating on this ship – I arrived late – just in time to introduce myself – then it ended – couldn’t decide on the BS but there were definitely ‘those types’ got to be in charge -around.

1600 HAPPY HOUR -Crow’s Nest 9

1730 DINING ROOM – Casual French onion soup, 8 oz strip steak – steak fries – garlic herb butter, red velvet cake

Entertainment tonight was a comedian – no interest –

Ocean Bar 5 – after dinner had a Lite – met Marvin the Army 1SG still thinks he’s much of a BSer and the guy who bought the disgusting scotch last night. What’s His Name(the guy who bought the disgusting scotch) & Judy went to bed, he had enough to drink – Marvin went to dinner.

Tuesday January 24, 2023

WEATHER: 70 degrees at 0600, 75 at 1500 – sunny and clear, a perfect day – seas still relatively calm – waves 3-5 feet Sunrise: Puerto Vallarta, MX Sunset: Puerto Vallarta, MX

Symbol of the City of Vallarta
on the Esplanade (Malecon)

TRAVEL: Puerto Vallarta

MS ZAAMDAM – Meals: Dining Room hours are generally - Breakfast:8-9:30 am, Lunch: 12-1 pm, Dinner: 1^st seating 1730 2^nd seating 203.

Actually, I forgot how much I love cruising – yes I could do this again.

Our Lady of Guadalupe

0730 Puerto Vallarta Sights: Old Town, Cathedral & Tequila. Cost $44.95. This was
booked through Holland America. Paid in advance. Meet on dock at 0815 – leave at 0830

Couldn’t tell you the name of the guide the bus driver’s name was Roberto – the driver took that bus places must could not navigate with a car – very narrow streets – all seemed one way.

Vallarta is the fastest growing city in Mexico – famous for it’s beaches, tequila tasting and classic market style shopping.

Vallarta gained popularity after John Fords novice Night of the Iguana starring Richard Burton and Ava Gardner. It was made here. The Occidental Sierra Madre Mountains rise sharply from the coast. Much of Predator was also filmed here.

Our Lady of Guadalupe

First was a driving tour through the upscales Marina Vallarta District. Then a visit to the old city and the and the neighborhood of the Pitillal and a walk down the Malecon (waterfront promenade) and a stroll through the main square and a visit to the church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Puerto Vallarta is named after an attorney – nothing to do with anything.

A walk to Old Town and a visit to Taxco Exporta for original silver from Taxco. Some interesting jewelry but I’m never sure of the taste of my daughters or daughters-in-law or even the 3 grandchildren who are girls – so I passed and probably save money.

A short walk in the park to a stairway that would take you to the former home of Elizabeth Taylor way up on a hill overlooking the Cuale Island Market.

Our Lady of Guadalupe - courtyard

Former Residence of Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton

7 kinds of Tequila

Finally, a visit to Mexican Hacienda for tequila tasting – seven kinds or Tequila, Silver, Aged and really Aged – Mango (really delicious), Almond, Coffee, and Chocolate. Then you could buy lunch or drinks. I had two margaritas - $3 each – bargain. Feeling it a bit as I’m typing this. But, I think I should join the SAIL AWAY CELEBRATION on Lido Sea View Pool Deck 9..

1500 SAIL AWAY CELEBRATION – Sea View Pool 9 – after all the tequila I had a coke

Vallarta in the distance as we sail away

1700 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick

1730 DINING ROOM – cocoanut crusted shrimp, prime rib strawberry torte

1900 STEP ONE DANCE COMPANY PRESENTS HUMANITY – World Stage 4&5

2000 CLASSICAL DUO – Exploration Lounge 5 - violin and piano – a mix of Bach, Hayden, Mozart, Respighi and Grieg

Wednesday January 25, 2023

WEATHER: 77 degrees and 74% humidity at 0500, clear – high of 81 and sunny Sunrise: At Sea Sunset: At Sea

TRAVEL: At Sea

MS ZAAMDAM – Meals: Lido Market Deck 8 aft is cafeteria style. Breakfast: 7-9 am, Lunch: 1130-2pm, Snack: 2-4pm, Dinner: 5:30-8 pm, Snack: 10:30-11:30 pm. Many many, choices . . . . .

Walked the deck 6x for 1.56 miles

0800 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick

Exec Chef, Food & Beverage
Manager and Ryan

0900 COFFEE WITH RYAN – World Stage 4&5 Ryan the cruise director interviewed Ali the Food & Beverage Manager from Turkey and Frank the Executive Chef from Germany, both had over 30 years at sea but only the last 2-3 years with Holland America. They liked this cruise line best. Ali was very forthright with his answers and comments. I think it boiled down to the fact that the management of this cruise line takes extreme pride in its food and beverage service.

Read another 2 chapters of “Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of The Battle of Thermopylae”

1100 COFFEE WITH RYAN – World Stage 4&5 Ryan put together a video of the ships workings i.e. a tour of the offices behind Guest Services, a tour of the laundry, the carpenter shop and the tailors, as well as, his quarters and typical crew quarters and the crews dining facilities and bar. A floating city – very much like the USS Midway but the galleys are much larger and more specialized. He finished on a personal note – he was in Ukraine last year February – he’s married to a Ukrainian – it was a story to leave Ukraine and get his wife a Visa to come to the US

After lunch about 45 minutes in the sun at the SeaView Pool 9

1730 DINING ROOM - Caesar salad, lasagna, almond fruit cake with ice cream

Even an hour of the sun ‘used me up’ – Crow’s Nest 9

2000 Music Trivia – Crow’s Nest 9 can’t believe I got Alan Jackson confused with Jimmy Buffet and thought the intro to It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere was 10 Rounds With Jose Cuervo

Thursday January 26, 2023

WEATHER: 68 degrees, 70% humidity and clear skies at 0700; a high of 82 sunny Sunrise: Huatulco, MX Sunset: Huatulco, MX

TRAVEL: Huatulco, MX Leaving Huatulco the seas picked up considerably – waves 6-9 feet high, considerable rolling of the ship, spray was reaching the windows of the Dining Room Deck 5 – lasted until about 1930 then it calmed down

MS ZAAMDAM – Meals: Canaletto is adjacent to the Lido Market on Deck 8. Reservations are required – Italian dining for sharing. I’ve never eaten here.

HUATULCO, Mexico – Arrived 0800 – All Aboard 1330 – Leave 1400.

Huatulco is not a deep water port, shallow entry - and not visited by larger cruise ships
A clean city - roads are in good shape - concrete - seemingly a nice place ot visit - known for its colorful cloth

I booked Huatulco’s Customs and Traditions thought the HGVC booking agent. I got a copy of the electronic ticket before I left home. Cost of the tour was $62 for a 4 hour tour. Departure time is 30 minutes after ship arrival i.e. 0830.

This tour was a good choice. Excellent guide and the stops were interesting. A 10-12 passenger van – 10 hour tour. Huatulco (pronounced WHA-TOOL-COH) has recently been developed -i.e. since 1984, yet people have lived here for centuries.

The streets are clean and the paved with either concrete or asphalt. Not many cruise ships stop here – perhaps one per week.

A church near the pier. After leaving the pier there were panoramic views of the Tangolunda countryside. There are 8 or 9 bays near Huatulco A stop at La Crucesita.

A church and square in the town of Santa Maria.

View of the Zaamdam in port

Another overlook of the many bays of Huatulco

There is no scale on this map but distances ae not far - good roads - all concrete fairly new - We visited Santa Maria on the tour and then came back to the pier

Tour Van

Square in Santa Maria

Back to Huatulco. There were crafts – a taste of mescal – silver jewelry – Oaxaca’s famous woven rugs and finally another church. I bought some Cuban cigars for Tom and hummingbird ornaments for the granddaughters. Shopping, a square and a church. This tour was at least twice as good as Puerto Vallarta – however no real explanation about the mescal, coffee grown here or cocoa for chocolate.

Handloom in one of the shops, pretty sure the products in this store were manufactured elsewhere

Santa Maria - Cemetery

Huatulco - Church on Square

1400 SAIL AWAY CELEBRATION – Sea View Pool 9

1700 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick

1730 DINING ROOM – Gourmet greens(toasted pecans, cherry tomatoes, orange segments) – Spaghetti aglio e olio (shrimp, parsley, Roma tomato) – Opera Cake (coffee butter cake) and coffee

1900 CLASSICAL DUO – Exploration Lounge 5 Mozart’s Eine Kliene Nacht Musik, Haydn’s Adagio, Strauss’s Blue Danube

Friday January 27, 2023

WEATHER: 81 degrees, 70% humidity broken clouds at 0500; seas calm 1-3 foot waves Sunrise: Puerto Quetzal, MX Sunset: Puerto Quetzal, MX

TRAVEL: Puerto Quetzal

Puerto Quetzal
Zaandam in the background
Gallo is the local beer

MS ZAAMDAM – Meals: Pinnacle Grill is a Steak & Seaford Restaurant. You need a reservation, and it is not included in the cruise price. IT is open for lunch between 12 and 1 pm; dinner between 5:30-9:30 pm. I’ve eaten lunch and dinner here before on previous cruises – excellent food.

Walked the deck 4x for 1.14 miles

NEWS TODAY 7.2 million men without work or not looking for work but there are plenty of jobs . . .this has never happened before . . . . “what’s going on?” so says Mike Rowe – Dirty Jobs & How America Works

Read another 2 chapters of “Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of The Battle of Thermopylae”

PUERTO QUETZAL, Guatamala. Arrived 1000 – All Aboard 1930– Departure 2000

Another tour purchased through HGVC’s travel agent. Cost was $86 included lunch. A Grey Line tour. A 20 passenger van – probably a good bet – people aboard the larger coach buses had to transfer to smaller vans when reaching Antigua because the streets are very narrow – the seven by 8 block area is paved with cobblestone. The guides name was Abraham.

Puerto Quetzal, Guatamala - note the coal piles used to generate electricity

The guide stopped by a
roadside stand to purchase some
small bananas - here he is handing
them out

cleansing – where one side just wanted to eliminate the other. Native Guatemalans have a Mayan heritage. The area was colonized by Spain. The war ended December 29, 1996.

After gaining independence from Spain in the 1820s, Guatemala had a long history of government by authoritarian rule and military regimes until it came under democratic rule in 1985. Starting in 1954, Guatemala’s governments faced formidable guerrilla opposition that sparked civil war that lasted for 36 years until peace accords were signed in 1996. The struggles of Guatemala’s Indians during the war years were illuminated when Rigoberta Menchu a Quiche Maya and an advocate for indigenous people throughout Latin America, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992.

The road to Antigua is paved, however getting there reminded me of a ride in a APC – very, very bumpy. I surmised that the road was worn asphalt because of the many trucks going inland from Puerto Quetzal. The rode smoothed out but became windy as it climbed to about 4,000 feet in elevation. There was a rockslide that blocked the road down from Antigua allowing only passage of one lane at a time – We left the dock at 0830 and arrived at our destination, Casa Santa Domingo, a former convent converted to a 5 Star Hotel, close to 1330.

A water fountain in Casa Santo Domngo

Casa Santo Domingo

The countryside on the fertile flatland is planted with sugar cane and banana. Coffee plantations begin to appear as we rose in elevation. On the way to Antigua, the guide stopped at a roadside stand and purchased a very small sweet banana for each of us.

Our first stop (after almost 3 hours) was at the Casa Santa Domingo. We were given a tour of the hotel which has preserved much of the old convent and church.

Fuego - the volcano - that puff of smoke is real - it happened about 5 times
while were were either in on on the road to Antigua - this picture is
taken from the road - which was in the path of the 2018 eruption

A picture from the internet indicating the path of the 2018 pyroclastic flow

Map from the House of Jade

In 1979 UNESCO declared the colonial city of La Antigua Guatemala as a World Cultural Heritage Site turning it to a recognized treasure of exceptional value before the eyes of the world. In the XVII, the Convent of Santo Domingo was one of the largest in America and in 1773, the earthquake of Santa Marta almost totally destroyed it.

Another convent converted to a
restaurant - we had lunch on the
square inside

In 1989, the project known as Casa Santo Domingo was developed
with the primary objective of rescuing the vestiges of the Convent and Temple buried under tons of rubble. Hotel Museum Spa Casa Santo Domingo progressively emerged where each corner is a page lost in time that joins others to form a beautiful chapter of history.

Guatemalan lunch - not spicy -
mostly chicken

Gallo
Guatemalan beer

The weather was cooler and mostly cloudy in Antigua. There were once up to 28 Catholic Churches in or near Antigua. We had lunch at another converted convent/church. Very good traditional Guatamalen – I can’t remember the names of anything but there were two bowls of chicken (red and brown), rice, some kind of fish, and a dessert of plantain in some sort of liquid, tortillas, and a very doughy tamale.

Main Square - Antigua, Guatemala

After lunch we walked a few blocks to the old town square. It was full of vendors. Guatemalan avocados are the large avocados grown in California. Their origin is Guatemala.

Jade Museum - Jewelry Store
I don't think these pieces
were Mayan originals

Jade was more important to the Mayans than Aztec or Inca gold – and of course the Spanish
conquistadores were not interested in jade. Interesting that jade is also very important in Chinese history and culture.

So of course we has a short course in Mayan jade and a jade factory (i.e. an upscale jewelry shop).

Our last stop was an indoor market full of local people selling many of the same things – Here you bargain. I found a wooden representation of a “chicken bus” and thought of buying 3 for Guatemalan tree ornaments for the grandsons – the first guy wanted $20 each – they would be overpriced at $10 each. At a stall by an entrance a girl offered the same thing – and what I considered much better ‘quality’ – for $10 each. However, I didn’t have much cash and none of these stalls take credit – I had to pass in order to have some cash for tips for the driver and guide. So, she eventually sold me 3 for $10 – I didn’t bargain – but took her offer.

We left Antigua at 1640 – the road was cleared of the landslide on the trip back and the road down on the straightaway was much smoother although there are speed bumps. We arrived back in port about 1840. It was dark.

Obviously, I missed dinner . . . . but after getting a Lite at the Ocean Bar went to the World Stage for BBC Earth.

1900 BBC EARTH PRESENTS: SEVEN WORLD’S ONE PLANET IN CONCERT – World Stage 4/5 Live Orchestration performed by the Classical Duo good film – 3D effect on screen without 3D glasses - prepared for Holland America by BBC – music by Hans Zimmer

2000 TOTALLY TABOO – Crow’s Nest 9 arrived here after a quick dinner (Asian) in the Lido Market – and even with a late arrival 8:20 pm thought I’d see what this was all about – there was nothing going on

Saturday January 28, 2023

WEATHER: 82 degrees and 69% humidity at 0600, scattered clouds; seas relatively calm – heading SE @ 14 knots - winds from the ENE at 26.5 – apparent wind at 43 mph – waves 8-10 feet ; high of 79 Sunrise: At Sea Sunset: At Sea

TRAVEL: At Sea

MS ZAAMDAM – Meals: The Dive In is a burger, dogs and taco shop on Deck 8 in a corner of the enclosed midships pool area

CLOCKS SET FORWARD ONE HOUR at 0200 EST

Too windy to walk the deck. A slight roll, ocean spray covering the forward port and starboard deck. Much more apparent roll in the forward area of the ship. Sports deck 9 is closed. Good decision not to walk. Deck 3 was closed by 8 am.

Map from the ship's TV

DINING ROOM Breakfast - served in the Dining Room daily from 0800-0930 – many choices – I was seated at a table at the stern of the ship – later joined by a gentleman from Flagstaff, AZ, two women from Denmark and another two from Walla WalIa, WA. Pleasant conversation for over an hour. I ordered a 3 egg omelet with bacon, bell pepper, onion, cheddar cheese –whole wheat toast and coffee

Read several chapters of “Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of The Battle of Thermopylae”

Ryan - History of the Panama Canal

1100 THE HISTORY OF THE PANAMA CANAL – World Stage 4&5

1330 A BRUSH WITH THE LAW: FAMOUS ART HEISTS – Wajang Theater 4 learned that a British film entitled “The Duke of Wellington” is a good movie about art heists and of course “The Thomas Crown Affair”. Some famous thefts include Jan Van Eyck’s “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” -a panel still missing; “Mona Lisa” stolen from the Louvre in 1913 and recovered. 89% of museum art theft is an ‘inside job.’ The presentation was made by a representative of Clarendon Fine Art.

1700 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick

1730 DINING ROOM Attire: Dressy French onion soup - Filet with Bearnaise sauce-potato rosti-asparagus - Crème brulee

2130 SINGLE & SOLO TRAVELERS MEETUP – Ocean Bar not much going on here – met 1SG (Marvin) still pretty sure it’s BS. Mariste from Indonesia was bartender.

2145 Ocean Bar Band The band here was much better – same combo but they decided to sing – 5x better than the last band I heard on a cruise.

2200 MUSIC TRIVA- Crow’s Nest 9 categories of songs from movies (mostly 80’s) – artists and titles from the 60’s (got them all) – Classical – did not get the operatic aria – perhaps heard the tune but still can’t name the composer or the song – it was a duet. Friendly people at the bar. Anne Marie came on as bartender at 9 pm – I signed up for the Margarita/Mojito Class tomorrow.

Sunday January 29, 2023

WEATHER: 81 degrees and light rain at 0530 – wind WNW at 5.7 mph, calm seas- 1-3 foot waves - partly sunny by 7 am – high of 82 Sunrise: At Sea Sunset: At Sea

TRAVEL: At Sea

MS ZAAMDAM –Entertainment: Comedian, Dance Company, Magician, BBC Earth – rotating shows on the Zaandam’s World Stage forward in the bow on Decks 4 & 5

BIG EVENTS TODAY – NFL Conference Championships

Cincinnati Bengals vs Kansas City Chiefs CHIEFS WON 23-20

Philadelphia Eagles vs San Francisco 49ers EAGLES WON 31-7

Finished reading “Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of The Battle of Thermopylae” I got this book for Christmas – it was recommended by either “Military Review” or “Parameters” – a novel – not so much about history and the Battle of Thermopylae but about the Spartan Warrior Ethic. The author tells a story of Greeks – the Spartan mindset – how they were human - fear – courage – love. A kind of ‘no greater gift than this’ story.’ I can see why this book was recommended. Perhaps a good book for Chad or Paul or even Dan or Jon may like it.

1100 EXC TALK: THE PANAMA CANAL hosted by the cruise Director – Ryan – much of the same that he before

Spent about 50 minutes sunning at the Sea View Pool - the sun is warm

1500 DALE DEGROFF MIXOLOGY CLASS: MARGARITAS & MOJITOS – Ocean Bar 5 Hosted by Anne Marie - bartender - in the Ocean Bar – Marista was also there. Didn’t have my camera – this was well worth $15. Two Mojitos and two Margaritas a classic and an Slainte made with Jameson and Cointreau and Orange Bitters – this last one was very tasty. A fun bunch of people met “her majesty” (maam) and I can’t remember her husband's name - from Oregon (Origen).

1600 HAPPY HOUR – Ocean Bar 5 what goes with 2 Mojitos and 2 Margaritas in 60 minutes? – of course it must be a Corona

Classical Duo

1730 DINING ROOM Caesar salad, short rib with black olives-mashed butternut squash-spaghetti-marinara, sacher torte with apricot preserves – alcohol – Why not? - decided on Corona.

1900 CLASSICAL DUO – Explorers Lounge 5 pieces from Polish, Ukrainian and Romanian composers

1945 OCEAN BAR BAND – Ocean Bar 5

Monday January 30, 2023

WEATHER: 79 degrees, mostly cloudy, humidity of 74% at 0400; 72 degrees and humidity of 88% (misting) at 0534 broken clouds – still dark; High in the upper 80’s Sunrise: Panama Canal Sunset: Panama Canal

Port of Balboa in the pre-dawn

TRAVEL: Panama Canal

MS ZAAMDAM – Each stateroom has a TV – choice of Movies by Demand – Aft Camera,
Bow Camera, Weather, Ships Location, Fox, MSNBC, ESPN, HGTV and some others.

0445 Picked up Pilot and a number of other officials from the canal to include line handlers

Walked the deck 7x for 2.0 miles

Enter Panama Canal – Cruise Director, Ryan, provided commentary on the canal – available from your Stateroom TV, the Crow’s Nest, Deck 3, and the Lido Deck.

HISTORY – The Panama Canal (an all water route through Panama) began with the French in 1880, but financial problems and tropical diseases ruined the initiative. When Panama gained independence from Columbia in 1903 (aided by the US), US President Theodore Roosevelt, and the Army Corps of Engineers spearheaded the project that came in on time and under budget. An agreement stated that the 10 mile wide 50 mile long US Panama Canal Zone would be ceded back to Panama on December 31, 1999.

The Miraflores Locks - traveling the canal from the Pacific to Atlantic
The new locks are on the bottom of the picture

Cruise Panama Canal

0600 Passed under the Bridge of the Americas – Port of Balboa – “balboa” is the currency of Panama - 1 balboa = 1 US dollar. A ship must pay $35,000 for a reservation. Cruise ships then pay a fee per passenger, cargo ships pay a fee per ton. It usually takes 7 to 10 hours to transit the canal.

0700-0800 MIRAFLORES LOCKS - Miraflores is the name of one of the three locks that form part of the Panama Canal, and the name of the small lake that separates these locks from the Pedro Miguel Locks upstream. In the Miraflores locks, vessels are lifted (or lowered) 54 feet (16.5 m) in two stages, allowing them to transit to or from the Pacific Ocean port of Balboa in Panama City. Ships cross below the Bridge of the America's, which connects North and South America.

Miraflores Locks from the Zaandam

Miraflores is the name of one of the three locks that form part of the Panama Canal, and the name of the small lake that separates these locks from the Pedro Miguel Locks upstream. In the Miraflores locks, vessels are lifted (or lowered) 54 feet (16.5 m) in two stages, allowing them to transit to or from the Pacific Ocean port of Balboa in Panama City. Ships cross below the Bridge of the Americas, which connects North and South America.

0800 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick

Container Ship in the new Cocili Locks

Pedro Miguel Locks

Pedro Miguel Lock
from the bow of the Zaandam

0825-0905 PEDRO MIGUEL LOCKS The Panama canal has three sets of locks. A two-step flight at Miraflores, and a single flight at Pedro Miguel, lift ships from the Pacific up to Gatun Lake; then a triple flight at Gatun lowers them to the Atlantic side. The single-step Pedro Miguel locks have a lift of 31 ft (9.4 m).

HOW DOES IT WORK – The interocean waterway operates through a system of locks, each with two lanes, which serve as water lifts that raise vessels to the level of Gatun Lake, 54-56 feet above sea level. The water that is used to raise and lower the ships in each set of locks come from Gatun Lake by gravity and is poured into the locks through a system of large culverts which extend below the chambers of the locks.

Cross Section of Lock Chamber

The lock chambers are 110 ft (33.53 m) wide by 1,050 ft (320 m) long, with a usable length of 1,000 ft (305 m). These dimensions determine the maximum size of ships that can use the canal; this size is known as Panamax. The total lift (the amount by which a ship is raised or lowered) in the three steps of the Gatun locks is 85 ft (25.9 m); the lift of the two-step Miraflores locks is 54 ft 16 m). The single-step Pedro Miguel locks have a lift of 31 ft (9.4 m). The lift at Miraflores actually varies due to the extreme tides on the Pacific side, between 43 ft (13 m) at extreme high tide and 64.5 ft (20 m) at extreme low tide; tidal differences on the Atlantic side are very small.

The lock chambers are massive concrete structures. The side walls are from 45 to 55 ft (14 to 17 m) thick at the bases; toward the top, where less strength is required, they taper down in steps to 8 ft (2.4 m). The center wall between the chambers is 60 ft (18 m) thick and houses three galleries that run its full length. The lowest of these is a drainage tunnel; above this is a gallery for electrical cabling; and toward the top is a passageway that allows operators to gain access to the lock machinery.

Started reading “Red River Campaign: Politics & Cotton in the Civil War” by Ludwell H. Johnson. Originally published in 1958as a doctoral thesis by Johns Hopkins University Press; second edition 1998 by Kent State University Press.

1010 GAMBOA PASSAGE - On 10th October 1913, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, triggered the explosion of the Gamboa Dike that ended the construction of the Panama Canal. Men had dreamed of it for centuries - the passageway from the Gulf of Panama to the Caribbean Sea, and over the centuries, leaders and adventurers toyed with the idea.

Culebra Cut

The CULEBRA CUT is the narrowest part of the canal. The segment was excavated through rock and limestone of the Central Mountain Range. The Culebra Cut, formerly called Gaillard Cut, is an artificial valley that cuts through the Continental Divide in Panama. The cut forms part of the Panama Canal, linking Gatun Lake, and thereby the Atlantic Ocean, to the Gulf of Panama and hence the Pacific Ocean. It is 7.8 miles (12.6 km) from the Pedro Miguel lock on the Pacific side to the Chagres River arm of Lake Gatun, with a water level 85 feet (26 m) above sea level.

Culebra Cut

Construction of the cut was one of the great engineering feats of its time; the immense effort required to complete it was justified by the great significance of the canal to shipping, and in particular the strategic interests of the United States of America.

Culebra is the name for the mountain ridge it cuts through, and was also originally applied to the cut itself. From 1915 to 2000 the cut was named Gaillard Cut after US Major David du Bose Gaillard, who had led the excavation. After the canal handover to Panama in 2000, the name was changed back to Culebra. In Spanish the cut is known as the Corte Culebra and is also called the Snake Cut

1305-1505 GATUN LOCKS - a lock system that lifts ships up 85 feet (26 meters) to the main elevation of the Panama Canal and down again. The original canal had a total of six steps (three up, three down) for a ship's passage. The total length of the lock structures, including the approach walls, is over 1.9 miles (3 km). The locks were one of the greatest engineering works ever to be undertaken when they opened in 1914. No other concrete construction of comparable size was undertaken until the Hoover Dam, in the 1930s.

There are two independent transit lanes, since each lock is built double. The size of the original locks limits the maximum size of ships that can transit the canal; this size is known as Panamax. Construction on the Panama Canal expansion project, which included a third set of locks, began in September 2007, finished by May 2016 and began commercial operation on 26 June 2016. The new locks allow transit of larger, New Panamax ships, which have a greater cargo capacity than the previous locks were capable of handling

Gatun Locks - International Bridge in the Background

Iced water, lemonade, watermelon shooters and cold towels were available to guests at several stations on the Zaamdam all day.

Exit Panama Canal, Cristobal

Classical Duo - Explorers Lounge

1700 CLASSICAL DUO they played a little of all the Strauss’s

1730 DINING ROOM Double Baked Potato Soup – Prime Rib Au Jus - lemon sorbet

1900 ON WORLD STAGE: NESTOR SANTURIO Latin guitar player, vocal artist and comedian – this was reasonable entertainment – a guitarist from Uruguay playing a variety of known melodies from Spain, Greece, Italy, Israel, even ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’

1945 MUSIC TRIVA – Ocean Bar 5 a lot of songs from the 70’s - 80’s – somehow not my strength – However a fun night – Ryan the Cruise Director, offered to buy me a Holland America 150 Anniversary beer, and I had a short conversation with the Hotel Manager (drinking wine) and Staff Captain (drinking ginger ale) who were at the bar – the captain bought the winners of the Music Trivia each a bottle of wine. Bartenders Marista and Emmerson were at the bar.

2030 PERMISSION TO DANCE – a lesson in salsa, with practice I think I could dance like that

Tuesday January 31, 2023

WEATHER: 79 degrees, clear and sunny, humidity 79% wind from the ENE at 18.4 mph – seas 6-8 ft waves – calmed down to 4-6 ft around 0930 with a drop in humidity to 61%. High of 88 degrees. Sunrise: Cartagena, Columbia Sunset: Cartagena, Columbia

TRAVEL: No tours planned/ I’ve been here before. Arrival 1200 – All Aboard 1730 –
Departure 1800

MS ZAAMDAM –Bars: Lido bar and Sea View bar are on deck 8. HAPPY HOUR (50% off house brands and cocktails) at the Crows Nest 9 and Ocean Bar 5. The Mix 5 is a martini bar.

Read “Red River Campaign: Politics & Cotton in the Civil War” by Ludwell H. Johnson

A happy crew – after 11 days together – Anom the cabin steward always says “Good morning Mr. David” – Mariste, the Ocean View bartender said “Hi” calling me by name, while I was reading this morning

Spent some time on deck, in the sun morning.

Cartagena - Port Oasis

Of course, I got off the ship
A long walk to the shore
station - had a beer - my choice -
didn't know it was an IPA

1200 SPECIAL HAPPY HOUR – Ocean Bar 5 few people here but a few talkers

1400 Went ashore for a local beer – ordered the $4 beer – it was an IPA – after the second swallow, it didn’t matter

1600 HAPPY HOUR – Crow’s Nest 9

1700 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick; Feast of St. Don Bosco

1730 DINING ROOM French onion soup – chicken parmigiana - cheesecake

2100 STEP ONE DANCE COMPANY after 15 minutes the show was cancelled for the second time due to excessive rocking of the ship – I didn’t stay for the comedian – the waves were between 10-12 feet – it was rock and roll but not as bad a few days ago

2115 OCEAN BAR 5 – ran into “her majesty”, Marvin and a few of the ‘regulars’ – Ryan was up here again – meting the guests – didn’t stay long enough for him to offer the HA 150 beer which apparently is brewed in Seattle

Wednesday February 1, 2023

WEATHER: 77 degrees at 0600, light rain, humidity 85%, wind ENE at 26.4 mph, seas 8-10 foot waves – cloudy to partly sunny to sunny – waves still 4-8 feet Sunrise: At Sea Sunset: At Sea

TRAVEL: At Sea – Caribbean – appears dirtier than the Pacific i.e. not my first visit but there appears to be weeds or something floating on the surface – in the sea lanes – at any rate, even from the ship it looks disgusting

MS ZAAMDAM – Services: Guest & Room, Service, Reservations, Pools, Hot Tubs, Shore Excursions, Art Gallery, Future Cruises, Port Shopping, Medical Center, Shops, Spa & Salon, Fitness Center, Casino, Photo Gallery.

0800 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick

Read “Red River Campaign: Politics & Cotton in the Civil War” by Ludwell H. Johnson

1000 ON DECK FOR A CAUSE I’ve done this before, walk around the decks for a t-shirt and a donation to fight cancer – couldn’t find where to make the donation or get the t-shirt – they were blue – nicer looking than the previous ones that were white, worn once and donated - suppose I could have asked

Time in the sun at the Sea View Pool

Read “Red River Campaign: Politics & Cotton in the Civil War” by Ludwell H. Johnson

1500 JACKPOT BINGO – Wajang Theater 4 a donation of $39 – 4 games, 6 cards per game – never got close to a win

1600 HAPPY HOUR – Ocean Bar 5

1700 CLASSICAL DUO – Explorers Lounge 5

1730 DINING ROOM Belgian endive & baby spinach – 8 oz New York Striploin – orange sherbet – not the best cut of steak they serve here – the tenderloin is better but still not prime butcher shop quality

2130 ORANGE PARTY – Ocean Bar 5 Holland America’s link with the Netherlands reaches back 150 years. Orange is the color of the Dutch Royal Family. It is worn on festive and special occasions. This party is a tradition of the Holland America line. I didn’t go to the party.

Thursday February 2, 2023

WEATHER: 77 degrees at 0600 , 72% humidity, wind E at 13.1 mph, seas 6-8 feet – waves at the bow spraying onto Deck 3 – the sun rises rapidly – when I started going forward I thought it was too early for a picture, by 1x around the sun was already up. At noon - speed 18 knots, winds ENE 30 mph. sunny and clear Afternoon -cloudy- then sunny – seas 4-6 feet.

Sunrise: At Sea Sunset: At Sea

TRAVEL: At Sea

MS ZAAMDAM – Entertainment: This ship offers a Classical Duo (violin & piano) who play in the Explorations Lounge a bout 4x a day. Other ships offer a quartet (violins, viola, cello, piano) called Lincoln Center Stage.

Walked the deck 4x for 1.14 miles

0800 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick Liturgical Feast of the Presentation in the Temple, (40 days after Christmas); also Candlemas Day, and the traditional ground hog day – by the way the groundhog saw his shadow and went back to his burrow – 6 more months of winter

Read “Red River Campaign: Politics & Cotton in the Civil War” by Ludwell H. Johnson

1100 ASK THE CAPTAIN – World Stage 4&5

Ryan and the Captain
on the World Stage

Michiel Willems - there is always some applause about ecology or saving something – like when are ships going to be battery powered – now really? The correct answer is NOT – Whales – ships do not have sonar to determine whales – ‘Rouge Waves' are very, very rare – in 40 years he and most other sailors never see one – Pirates – most stay away from cruise ships – too fast – any piracy occurs in ports – of course ships have security

A ;little time in the sun – until it got cloudy

1600 HAPPY HOUR – Ocean Bar 5 the regular crowd; I passed on Mixology of Mai Tais & Old Fashions prior to at the Mix Bar with Anne Marie but had a Margarita during Happy Hour

This was the vocal group
on the World Stage

1730 DINING ROOM Dressy Shrimp cocktail, Cracked Pepper Tenderloins with Grilled Shrimp, sauteed spinach, green beans, caramelized pineapple – Warm Chocolate Lava Cake with orange cream

1900 ON WORLD STAGE: BOYBAND EVOLUTION – World Stage 4&5 from barbershop to NSYNC- a combination of classics and contemporary – one memory at a time

Ocean Bar and Ocean Bar Band at 1945

Friday February 3, 2023

WEATHER: 77 degrees at 0545, humidity 70%, wind SE 8.2 mph. Sunrise: Half Moon Cay, Bahamas Sunset: Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

TRAVEL: Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. I’ve been here before – a private island of Holland America – some people like – to me “been there done that” However, I did take the tram ride for a ride around the island. Arrive 0800 – All Aboard 1430 – Depart 1500. Launches are used to get to the island – no dock.

Half Moon Cay

Half Moon Cay - the little square is all that is developed

Another uneventful visit - if I visit here again - I'd just go to the beach and sit in a chair for an hour

Zaandam -
from the channel to the docks
for the tenders -
just thought it was a unique view

MS ZAAMDAM – Entertainment: in addition to the Classical Duo, a pianist and 3 piece combo
(guitar, bass, drums) alternate in the Ocean Bar. There is also a Piano Bar in the Mix. Did I forget to say there was a casino – not a big draw for me but there is Roulette, Blackjack, Craps, Daily Lotto, Bingo, and of course slots.

Read “Red River Campaign: Politics & Cotton in the Civil War” by Ludwell H. Johnson

0900 Exploring Half-Moon Cay on an open air tram. Half-Moon Cay is a Holland America private Island in the Bahamas. Last time here, I went on a short ecological hike – it was warm – just thought I’d see what is on the island. This cost $69.

1500 SAIL AWAY CLEBRATION – Sea View Pool 8

1700 MASS – Wajang Theater 4 mass with Fr. McCormick – Feast of St. Blaise

1730 DINING ROOM Casual – only 3 nights were ‘dressy’ - last dinner with Nora, Michael and Jim – sweet and sour shrimp, pear torte with ice cream

This is the Nieuw Statendam - also at Half Moon Cay - photo taken from the tender
taking me back to the Zaandam - I've been on this ship before

Half Moon Cay - beach from the tender - The ship is a bar called Captain Morgan's

Saturday February 4, 2023

WEATHER: 68 degrees, 73% humidity, wind NE at 19.9 mph, overcast skies at 0540; 34 degrees in Milwaukee at 1730. – plenty of snow on the ground Sunrise: Fort Lauderdale Sunset: Milwaukee

TRAVEL: Disembark Zaandam at 0830; cab to airport. DELTA - Fort Lauderdale-JFK New York, Milwaukee Leave FLL 1205 Arrive JFK 1500 Leave JFK 1559 Arrive MKE 1744. DELTA - its old hat like saying “da bears” – the only bright side is that I did get a free upgrade to ‘Delta Comfort ‘from JFK to MKE - cabin attendants with attitudes – I think a lot of them hate their jobs – too bad – service on airlines has steadily gone downhill

Finished reading "Red River Campaign: Politics and Cotton in the Civil War” by Ludwell H. Johnson

The crew of the Zaandam was friendly – so were the passengers. In the words of David Crosby: “If you smile at me, I will understand, It’s something everybody does, in the same language” Wooden Ships

Thought this would be my last cruise and it may well be, but I think I enjoyed this cruise the best – it was a full 2 weeks – no rain – good people – I think I could do this again.

“To travel is to live” - Hans Christian Andersen

Monday April 17, 2023

WEATHER: 28 at 4 am snow until 6:40 am somewhere in IL, met the guys in Matoon, ILL Denny’s for breakfast – got to Mineral Mound GC by 1 pm Sunrise: 0606 Milwaukee, Wi Sunset: 1929 Gilbertsville, KY

TRAVEL: Burlington – Mineral Mound GC – Kentucky Dam Village

KENTUCKY DAM VILLAGE - stayed here in the past, accommodations OK – golf package included breakfast

MINERAL MOUND GC – 53/60 113

The Cullan at Mineral Mound is a challenging 18 hole, par 72 golf course. The front 9 holes are flanked by lake views and the back 9 holes are situated in a wooded area. The pro shop offers rental carts, clubs and merchandise.

Mineral Mound - aerial view

Dinner at Southwest Grill

Tuesday April 18, 2023

WEATHER: 48 at 6 am – high of 80 Crossville, TN – clear and sunny Sunrise: 0615 Gilbertsville, KY Sunset: 1916 Crossville, TN

TRAVEL: Kentucky Dam Village – Comfort Suites, Crossville, TN – Stonehenge GC – Red’s Ale House

COMFORT SUITES, Crossville, TN - the hotel and golf was a package deal. Hotel serves breakfast in the morning.

STONHENGE GC – 49/53 102

Stonehenge gets its name from walls of native stone found throughout the 6,549 yards, par 72 layouts. Natural rock outcroppings come into play on several holes Also, a 15 foot layered stone retaining wall running along the left and rear of the signature downhill par 3, 14th hole. Bentgrass tees, greens, and fairways provide prime playing conditions.

Stonehenge- layout

Stonehenge
#15 behind #14 green
looking up to tee

Stonehenge
#14 Par 3

Winnings: $28.00

Dinner at Red’s Ale House – one of the guys bought dinner and drinks for all 12 of us.

Stonehenge Score Card

Wednesday April 19, 2023

WEATHER: 52 at 6 am – high of 82 Crossville, TN – clear and sunny Sunrise: 0602 Sunset: 1916 Crossville, TN

TRAVEL: Comfort Suites, Crossville, TN – Bear Trace GC -

COMFORT SUITES, Crossville, TN -

BEAR TRACE GC – 56/60 116

Part of the Tennessee Golf Trail

In 1999, the Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain State Park was named “One of the Top Ten You Can Play in North America” byGolf Magazine. In 2001, Golf Digest named it “One of the Top Ten Courses in Tennessee” and the course has been named by GOLFWEEK Magazine as the #1 Public Course in Tennessee for 2012 and for 2013. Today, The Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain is one of the most sought-after sites among the Jack Nicklaus-designed Bear Trace courses in Tennessee. The layout features a design that capitalizes on elevation changes as well as natural features such as flowing brooks and clustered, mature pines. As is typical in Jack Nicklaus Signature courses, there are many risk/reward opportunities for all levels of golfers

YARDS RATING SLOPE

NICKLAUS Tees 6,928 74.0 141

BLUE Tees 6,430 71.6 139

WHITE Tees 5,916 69.0 133

GOLD Tees 5,250 66.1 117

RED Tees 5,073 69.6 128

Dublin's Crossing
Irish Pub

Winnings: $15.00

Dinner at Dublin’s Crossing Irish Pub

Thursday April 20, 2023

WEATHER: 52 at 6 am – high of 82 Crossville, TN – clear and sunny Sunrise: 0600 Sunset: 1917 Crossville, TN

TRAVEL: Comfort Suites, Crossville, TN – Druid Hills GC -

COMFORT SUITES, Crossville, TN -

DRUID HILLS GC – 53/49 102

In 1970 the first 9 holes of golf opened for play in Fairfield Glade. All 18 holes were completed in 1973 and the championship course was named Druid Hills Golf Club. Located on the highest point in Fairfield Glade, as the name suggest, Druid Hills provides several scenic views of the surrounding mountains. With rolling, tree-lined fairways, plenty of water, several doglegs, and undulation bent grass greens, Druid Hills is a true test of golf. Druid Hills Golf Club is open to members, Fairfield Glade guests, and the general public with some restrictions. Course designed by Leon Howard.

Druid Hills - #4 fairway

Druid Hills - layout

Winnings $16.00

Dinner at Cancun Restaurant – just down the road from the Comfort Suites. Good food, excellent service – good margaritas. As a group we all forgot to ask for the 10% discount offered because we’re staying at Comfort Suites.

Friday April 21, 2023

WEATHER: 60 at 5 am – high of 70 Crossville, TN Sunrise: 0559 Sunset: 1918 Crossville, TN

TRAVEL: Comfort Suites, Crossville, TN – Dorchester GC -

COMFORT SUITES, Crossville, TN -

DORCHESTER GC – 46/57 103

Dorchester - layout and ratings

Dorchester Golf Club is an 18-hole course, secluded in Fairfield Glade and featuring Bentgrass tees and greens. The tree lined fairways are narrow, requiring precision shot-making off the tees. Many water hazards and strategically placed bunkers provide a challenge for every level of golfer

Winnings $7

Lunch at Red’s Ale House. Frist tee time was 7 am we were done by 11:30. The replay tee time wasn’t until 2:57 pm. Just ordered out for pizza in the evening.

Dorchester #15 - Wayne

Saturday April 22, 2023

WEATHER: 60 at 5 am – high of 70 Crossville, TN Sunrise: 0558 Sunset: 1919 Crossville, TN

TRAVEL: Comfort Suites, Crossville, TN – Heatherhurst - Crag GC -

COMFORT SUITES, Crossville, TN -

HEATHERHURST - CRAG GC – 53/48 101

Heatherhurst Brae & Crag Ratings
We played the Brae on the 9 hole scramble replay

Heatherhurst Crag #1

The completion of nine additional holes in mid-2000 created a fun and challenging 18-hole course, called the Crag Course at Heatherhurst Golf Club. As with its sister, The Brae Course, it features Bentgrass tees and greens. Its well-maintained, wide fairways are great for the short hitters but some strategically placed bunkers create a demanding day on the links. Heatherhurst’s original three nine-hole courses were all given 4 stars from Golf Digest’s Places to Play.

Winnings $7

Dinner at Spike’s Road House

Sunday April 23, 2023

WEATHER: 38 at 3:20 am, Crossville, TN - 86 Orlando, FL 2:30 pm Sunrise: 0557 Crossville, TN Sunset: 1955 Orlando, FL

TRAVEL: Comfort Suites, Crossville, TN – Orlando Airport – Hilton Vacation Club Seaworld Very Early rise and on the road by 0320 CDT - a long day – went to the wrong airport – How could I do that? Eventually got to the right airport and picked up Chad, Sara, Amanda – just about 11 hours on the road

HGVC SEAWORLD, Orlando, FL – check in received HGVC ELITE wrist bands - Pembrooke 4510/11 two kings/2 baths, DR, LR,KIT

Monday April 24, 2023

WEATHER: 68 at 0630 –high of 86 - Orlando, FL 0 mostly cloudy, rain in the afternoon – poured during the fireworks for about an hour, no thunder or lightning Sunrise: 0651 Sunset: 1956 Orlando, FL

TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – Magic Kingdom – HGVC Seaworld

HGVC SEAWORLD, Orlando, FL - Pembrooke 4510/11 two kings/2 baths, DR, LR,KIT

MAGIC KINGDOM – did not buy Genie Plus and got on all that we wanted to except Space Mountain, Splash Mountain is becoming something about the Princess & the Frog – Snow White and Peter Pan – probably must for little kids – these may be worth the Genie Plus because waits are always more than an hour – People Mover is just relaxing and the Speedway is a great ride for a 7-10 year old. Big Thunder Railroad is probably better than the Seven Dwarves Mine Train.

HAUNTED MANSION
– I’ll never tire of this ride

IT’S A SMALL WORLD – after all
. . . . . .it’s a small, small world

SEVEN DWARVES MINE TRAIN – the longest wait – 80 minutes plus – not worth it –

LITTLE MERMAID’S JOURNEY UNDER THE SEA – my first time

on this ride I think – don’t know why I haven’t gone on this before.

DUMBO – in all my visits –
still haven’t ridden this one.

BUZZ LIGHTYEAR – a wait of 40 minutes –
Zorg beat me and my thumb still hurts

TRON – we got into the ‘virtual queue’ at noon – it gave us a group – you have to watch the app to find out when your group is boarding. Lucky – not a long wait – better than paying $20 each to get into the GENIE PLUS LINE

ENCHANTED TIKI ROOM

COUNTRY BEAR JAMBOREE
– an old favorite

JUNGLE CRUISE – still fun – the headhunters are gone – no narrative when you go through the tunnel

PIRATES OF THE CARRIBBEAN – “dead men tell no tales”

Parade – not as large as it used to be – it started to rain – then poured we watched from the Christmas Shop and bolted to the Hall of Presidents

HALL OF PRESIDENTS – Walt Disney’s dream – I don’t believe they will ever take this out of the park

MICKEY”S PHILHARMAGIC – they seem to have changed this – still Mickey and Donald
but now the songs from current films are in the act – Goofy is still the stage manager

HAPPILY EVER AFTER FIREWORKS – we watched from the MAIN STREET SQUARE – got there about 8:45 pm – show began at 9:00 pm – it started to drizzle about 9:05 by 9:10 it was pouring – we had ponchos – many did not - the mass of people moving to the monorail took forever – thanks to the ponchos it was not too miserable

Tuesday April 2, 2023

WEATHER: 69 at 0630 – forecast high of 79 - Orlando, FL mostly cloudy, thunderstorm in the afternoon Sunrise: 0650 Sunset: 1957 Orlando, FL

TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – Hollywood Studios – HGVC Seaworld

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Train

HGVC SEAWORLD, Orlando, FL – just a place to sleep – room service was provided today - Pembrooke 4510/11 two kings/2 baths, DR, LR,KIT

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Train – just an amazing ride – you got to do this

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – my second time on this ride – not as intimidating as the first time but still a wonder

Rise of the Resistance

Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run – my third time on this ride – Chad and Amanda were the pilots – Sara and I were the gunners – no engineers were paired up with us.

For the Frist Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-A-Long Celebration
this is my most favorite show in Disney World

Lunch at Pizza Rizzo – of course we had pizza

MUPPET VISION 3D - just fun to watch the muppets

Toy Story Land - Green Army Men

Walked through Galaxy’s Edge to Toy Story Land – watched the Green Army Men Drum Corps (3 guys) while waiting for our reservation window at Oga’s Cantina

Oga's Cantina - can you
believe that the little glass
of juice cost $17

Oga's Cantina

Oga’s Cantina - a round of Gamorrean Ale, Gold Squadron Lager, Jet Juice and Oga’s Concoction

'Happily Ever After' at
Galaxy's Edge

In front of the Millennium Falcon

Confrontation with
Kylo Ren

Conversation
with Rae

Interrogation by the First Order

Shaking hands with Mando

Indiana Jones: Epic Stunt Spectacular – this show started at 4:30 pm – I believe I’ve seen this show every time I’ve been to Hollywood Studios – about 15 minutes into the show the second scene in the bazaar – the closed it down – huge thunderstorm approaching – We had wanted to go on Tower of Terror, then leave, but the approaching storm and last nights experience said let’s leave. We did. It poured and hailed. Back to HGVC Seaworld and Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Wednesday April 26, 2023

Disney Springs
Raglan Road

WEATHER: 69 at 0730 – forecast high of 83 - Orlando, FL – sunny to partly sunny, if it rained at night - it didn’t affect me Sunrise: 0649 Sunset: 1957 Orlando, FL

TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – Disney Springs – Bahama Breeze – HGVC Seaworld

HGVC SEAWORLD, Orlando, FL – just a day of vacation from vacation - updated photos and blog entries - shopping at Disney Springs with a visit to Raglan Road - Happy Hour at Bahama Breeze from 4 until 6 - dinner reservation at 5 pm

Thursday April 27, 2023

WEATHER: 70 at 0600 – forecast high of 88 - Orlando, FL – threat of rain around 5 pm but didn’t appear – thunderstorm well after 9 pm Sunrise: 0648 Sunset: 1958 Orlando, FL

TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – Animal Kingdom – Disney Springs – HGVC Seaworld

HGVC SEAWORLD, Orlando, FL - Pembrooke 4510/11 two kings/2 baths, DR, LR,KIT

ANIMAL KINGDOM

KILAMANJARO SAFARIS – a 60 minute plus wait at 9 am – I think the Lightning Lane took precedence where this line stood still for a long time. A 20-25 minute drive through Africa while the animals graze in their own habitat – yes you have to wait for some of the animals to cross the road.

Kilamanjaro Safaris

FESTIVAL OF THE LION KING – just a great show with great music.

AVATAR: FLIGHT OF PASSAGE – a 90 minute wait time – where we spent almost 30 minutes standing still – I think the ride was shut down for awhile – in my opinion the best ride at Disney – beats Tron – we’ll see how Guardian’s of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind does tomorrow.

Lunch at Pizzafari – only Chad had pizza - salads and Tusker Ale

Expedition Everest

EXPEDITION EVEREST -LEGEND OF THE FORBIDDEN MOUNTAIN – a short line less
than 30 minutes – a roller coaster – faster and wilder than anything at Magic Kingdom – forwards and backwards in the the dark some of the time

FINDING NEMO: THE BIG BLUE AND BEYOND – an unexpected twist on the same story – a musical version

Left the park around 4:15 took the tram back to Dinosaur parking.

DISNEY SPRINGS

Stage at Raglan Road

The girls went shopping – Chad and I enjoyed a glass of Harp and Irish music at Raglan Road.

A 6:30 pm dinner reservation at Terralina’s Crafted Italian. Met Eva for dinner. A grand niece who works at Disney – specifically Kilimanjaro Safari’s – she hopes to make a career out of Disney.

Friday April 28, 2023

EPCOT Flower & Garden

WEATHER: 68 at 0600 – high of 88 - Orlando, FL cloudy in the am – sunny in the afternoon – extremely hot & humid between 2 and 4 – then a breeze picked up and it cooled down to be tolerable Sunrise: 0647 Sunset: 1958 Orlando, FL

TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – EPCOT – HGVC Seaworld

HGVC SEAWORLD, Orlando, FL - Pembrooke 4510/11 two kings/2 baths, DR, LR,KIT

EPCOT –Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow

Test Track

Spaceship Earth
night view

Got into the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind virtual queue at 7 am – Group 89 with an estimated reservation time of 3:50 pm

TEST TRACK – build and design your own car then test it on the track.. A lot of interactive experiences for kids after the ride. A wait of less than 20 minutes

Mission Space

MISSION SPACE – Orange Mission – experience weightlessness and G forces in this training mission. The Green Mission is not as intense. Again interactive experiences to occupy kids after the ride. Less than 20 minutes to get on the ride.

Ratatouille

REMY”S RATATOULLE ADVENTURE– My first
time on this 3D ride – using the same type of technology as in Hollywood Studios – Mickey’s & Minnie’s Runaway Train and Rise of the Resistance. This was the longest wait – about 60 minutes about 20 minutes not moving – ride must have broken down.

CANADA FAR & WIDE IN CIRLCE VISION 360 – literally no wait and not crowded

Guardians of the Galaxy

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY: COSMIC REWIND – the virtual queue of Group 89 was ready at 1:40 – waited about 30 minutes to get through the line – a lot of little kids on this ride – not sure that would be a good idea - I didn’t remember the movies. Xandar – a bunch for misfits (Groot – Peter Quill – Gemora – Drax the Destroyer) become Guardians of the Galaxy defeating Ronan to save the universe. A smooth roller coaster ride in the dark – not as bumpy as Space Mountain.

Lunch at Sommerest in Germany – brats and sauerkraut.

EPCOT

EPCOT - map

EPCOT

EPCOT - Canada

AMERICAN ADVENTURE

Donald, Panchito Pistoles, Jose Carioca

GRAN FIESTA TOUR STARRING THE THREE CABALERROS - a boat ride – calm with scenes from the interactive film the Three Cabalerros. Lines were way too long to stop at La Cava del Tequila. A 1944 film, Disney's first attempt to combine live action with animation.

THE SEAS WITH NEMO AND FRIENDS – ride in a clam shell to see the characters of Finding Nemo.

SPACESHIP EARTH – I just like this ride – a history of humanity.

EPCOT FOREVER – a 10 minute fireworks spectacular – we watched from a table along the lagoon at La Cantina.

When we got back to HGVC we watched Guardians of the Galaxy. I don’t think I had ever watched it from beginning to end before – it is full of special effects but really dumb.

Saturday April 29, 2023

WEATHER: 72 at 0730 – forecast high of 88 - Orlando, FL mostly cloudy – short thunderstorm at 5 pm. Sunrise: 0646 Sunset: 1959 Orlando, FL

TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe Basilica - Orlando Airport – HGVC Seaworld

HGVC SEAWORLD, Orlando, FL

Dinner at Longhorn on Vineland Ave

Sunday April 30, 2023

WEATHER: 71 at 0600 – forecast high of 78 - Orlando, FL- chance of thunderstorms Sunrise: 0645 Sunset: 2000 Orlando, FL

TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – HGVC Parc Soleil - Our Lady of the Universe Basilica – Disney Springs – Publix - HGVC Seaworld

HGVC SEAWORLD, Orlando, FL

HGVC PARC DE SOLEIL, Orlando, FL – owner update presentation at 8:15 pm, endured this for a $150 VISA gift card – Flavia de Luchini – then another – then another – the last I bought a future vacation – VIP for $1695 – 11,520 points – Price Freeze same offers on the table for 18 months. Flavia was trying to upgrade me to the next level or at least a full purchase ILO half. After a NO GO - she dumped me like a hot potato to let Ricardo do the offers - don’t think Ill ever get her promised recipe for cachaca. At least they respected my time.

OUR LADY OF THE UNIVERSE BASILICA – 10 am mass - World Day of Prayer for Vocations – Good Shepherd Sunday. The priest's homily hit on vocations – He began with John the Baptist – a voice calling out in the desert. He continued on with the voice theme – addressing specifically two youth groups in the church – one from Mexico and another from Canada. Listen.

DISNEY SPRINGS – Dockside Margaritas, expensive but well worth it - better than Bahama Breeze.

Monday May 1, 2023

WEATHER: 68 at 0530 Orlando, FL – 83 at 1700 Baton Rogue, LA Sunrise: 0645 Orlando, FL Sunset:1923 Baton Rogue, LA

TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – Baton Rouge, LA

Visiting friends in Baton Rogue

Capitol Park Museum
Baton Rogue, LA

Tuesday May 2, 2023

WEATHER: a nice day Sunrise: 0652 Sunset: 1924 Baton Rogue, LA

TRAVEL: Baton Rouge, LA

This photo was take at a Louisiana Rest Stop - BOTTOM LINE: Plantations were along rivers in order to transport their crops to market

The Capitol Park Museum is worth a 2-3 hour
visit - well worth the time A history of Louisiana.
I have more pictures than I can post here

The Louisiana Purchase

View of Baton Rogue from the top of the
State Capitol - Sen Huey Long was
murdered here in 1932

Banks followed the inland route. He was unaware of a road
along the river where Porter's fleet could have supported
him. The defeat at Mansfield turned the campaign in reverse.

Wednesday May 3, 2023

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE

2023 – 72^nd Tour “The Red River Campaign”

WEATHER: another nice day Sunrise: 0651 Baton Rogue, LA Sunset: 064541930 Alexandria, LA

TRAVEL: Baton Rogue, LA to Marriott Bonvoy, Alexandria, LA

The Wyndam Garden Hotel was bought by Marriott Bonvoy Avalon and is still in the process of rebranding and rebuilding. A modern but I deem it cold interior – LED lighting, pergo floors, a little carpet in the room and halls – adequate. WIFI worked today. No bar, no restaurant, no coffee in the lobby, but a good breakfast included, no meeting rooms. A ‘convention center’ is next door.

1700 Working Supper with BG (Ret) Parker Hills

Parker Hills served almost 32 years in the U.S. Army uniform in active and reserve components, and retired as a brigadier general, Mississippi Army National Guard in 2001. He owns Battle Focus a leadership training company, and trains soldiers, Marines, airmen, tourists, and corporate leaders. He is the author of A Study in Warfighting: Nathan Bedford Forrest and the Battle of Brice’s Crossroads; co-author of the Vicksburg Campaign Driving Tour Guide; co-author with Edwin C. Bearss of Receding Tide: Vicksburg and Gettysburg; a contributor to Vicksburg: Mississippi Blitzkrieg; and author of Vicksburg: Art of Commemoration. This last work discusses the symbolism behind the art and architecture of the monuments and memorials in Vicksburg National Military Park. General Hills has been married to his wife Carol, a native of Hattiesburg, for 43 years. The Hills reside in Clinton, Mississippi

MG Nathanial Banks
Massachusetts Politician
Former Speaker of the US House

MG Richard Taylor
Graduate of Yale -
Planter - Son of
President Zachary
Taylor

RADM David Dixon Porter
USN midshipman at age 10
adoptive brother of David Farragut

The Red River Campaign – Parker Hills presented an outstanding power point overviewing the Red River Campaign, it’s generals and the politics. It started and ended with ‘follow the money’ and a reference to Clausewitz ‘war is politics by other means’.

BOTTOM LINE: The campaign and MG Nathanial Banks were bound to fail, Banks was a political threat to Lincoln in a run for the 1864 election – a defeat would eliminate the threat – and Banks and most notably Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter were after the cotton that supposedly was abundant among the plantations along the Red River. Banks failed and Porter and the Navy earned ’prize money’ but he lost 5 ships and nearly stranded the fleet above the Alexandria Rapids until rescued by LTC Bailey of Wisconsin and his idea for building a dam.

Thursday May 4, 2023

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE

2023 – 72^nd Tour “The Red River Campaign”

WEATHER: 57 at 7 am - high of 87, mostly sunny Sunrise: 0654 Sunset: 1931 Alexandria, LA

TRAVEL: Bus left Marriot Bonvoy Avalon at 0745 - mostly a riding tour

Marriott Bonvoy Avalon – no maid service

1025 Winter Site of Banks’ XIX Corps – Franklin, LA was called Brashear City during the Civil War – along the Bayou Torkley -

Parker Hills explaining the Battle of
Irish Bend - 1863 prior to the Red River Campaign
It took us a 2 1/2 hour drive to get here.

1100 Battle of Irish Bend below is from the NPS website – there are no
markers here – no interpretation – the bus just drove around the roads bordering what was the battlefield.

OTHER NAME:

Nerson's Woods, Franklin

CAMPAIGN:

Operations in West Louisiana

DATE(S):

April 1863

PRINCIPAL COMMANDERS:

BG Cuvier Grover (US) MG Richard Atylor (CS)

ESTIMATED CASUALTIES:

355 total (US 355; CS 0;)

DESCRIPTION:

While the other two Union XIX Army Corps divisions comprising the expedition into West Louisiana moved across Berwick Bay towards Fort Bisland, BG Cuvier Grover's division went up the Atchafalaya River into Grand Lake, intending to intercept a Confederate retreat from Fort Bisland or turn the enemy's position. On the morning of April 13, the division landed in the vicinity of Franklin and scattered Rebel troops attempting to stop them from disembarking. That night, Grover ordered the division to cross Bayou Teche and prepare for an attack towards Franklin at dawn. In the meantime, Confederate MG Richard Taylor had sent some men to meet Grover's threat. On the morning of the 14th, Taylor and his men were at Nerson's Woods, around a mile and a half above Franklin. As Grover's lead brigade marched out a few miles, it encountered Rebels on its right and began skirmishing with them. The fighting became intense; the Rebels attacked, forcing the Yankees to fall back. The gunboat Diana arrived and anchored the Confederate right flank. The Confederates were outnumbered, however, and, as Grover began making dispositions for an attack, they retreated leaving the field to the Union. This victory, along with the one at Fort Bisland, two days earlier, assured the success of the expedition into West Louisiana.

RESULTS:

Union Victory

Shadows-on-the-Teche

Didn't have time to
take the tour.

1200 LUNCH – Tabasco Restaurant, 1848 Restaurant - Avery
Island, LA Home of McIlhenni Tabasco Sauce

1340 Shadows of the Teche – an antebellum plantation that served as BG Franklin’s HQ – thereby surviving being set on fire/destroyed by the Yankees – called the Shadows because on the live oaks that provided shade and Teche because it is on the Bayou Teche

Shadows-on-the-Teche
no tour of the inside

1410 Camp Pratt - New Iberia, LA - a drive by – no marker – along a lake – site of a Confederate Training Camp

1455 St. John’s Catholic Church - Graves of BG Mouton (CS) & BG Franklin Gardner (US) - Lafayette, LA

St. John's

Gardner's marker

Mouton's marker

1630 CSA Capital 1863 - Opelousas, LA just a drive by

1830 DINNER in the Conference Center – Presentation by Steve Mayeux covering ‘Gunboats on the Red River’. I bought his book ‘Earthen Walls, Iron Men – Fort DeRussy, LA and the Defense of the Red River’. Written in 2007 and published by the University of Tennessee Press with a forward by Ed Bearss.

Friday May 5, 2023

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE

2023 – 72^nd Tour “The Red River Campaign”

WEATHER: 66 and partly cloudy at 6 am, high of 86 sunny in the afternoon. Rained overnight. Sunrise: 0653 Sunset: 1931 Alexandria, LA

TRAVEL: Bus left Marriott Bonvoy Avalon at 0745

Marriott Bonvoy Avalon – NO WIFI, no maid service

Parker Hills at
Henderson Hill

0835 Henderson Hill, Boyce, LA – about 20 miles north of Alexandria,
where 350 Confederate cavalrymen were surprised and captured by Union general A.J. Smith’s Vicksburg veterans on the stormy night of March 21, 1864.

0930 Grand Encore Visitor Center, Grand Encore, LA - At Grand Encore, near Natchitoches (Nack-a-tish) and roughly 75 miles south of Shreveport, General Banks decided to send Brigadier General Albert Lee with more than 3,300 cavalrymen and a train of at least 300 wagons up to Mansfield. From Mansfield, three roads led to Shreveport. Banks had promised General-in-Chief Ulysses S. Grant to be in Shreveport by April 10. From Grand Encore Admiral Porter's flotilla would steam upriver to Shreveport's vicinity. Major General William B. Franklin, whose 20,000 infantrymen were waiting to follow Lee's cavalrymen up the Mansfield Road, urged the expedition's commander to send scouts out to evaluate other routes to Shreveport. Nothing was known about the terrain that Lee would encounter or whether water would be available for his troops. Moreover, soon after leaving Natchitoches, Banks' inland force would be beyond the range of covering fire from Porter's gunboats. But Banks did not believe there would be a battle on the way to Shreveport. No reconnaissance was made.

Wilson’s Farm – Carroll’s Mill - skirmish sites where Confederate cavalry delayed the Union advance to buy time for Taylor to concentrate his troops and select his ground.

1150 BATTLE OF MANSFIELD - 8 APR 1864 also known as

Battle of Mansfield - First and Second Phase

Sabine Crossroads — lies about 40 miles south of Shreveport, Louisiana. There, roughly 8,000 Louisianians and Texans led by Major General Richard Taylor stopped vastly stronger invasion forces commanded by Union Major General Nathanial P. Banks and sent them scurrying back toward their starting point of New Orleans. Had Banks been victorious at Mansfield, his next objective would have been Shreveport — followed by a drive through East Texas. But Taylor and his men smashed the Yankees so severely at Mansfield that the Union's Red River Expedition became an expensive and highly embarrassing fiasco.

Battle of Mansfield - Third Phase

From start to finish, this Confederate achievement was the work of "Dick" Taylor. He was the son of Zachary Taylor, who was a general in the Mexican War and later President of the United States, and the brother of Jefferson Davis' first wife. Taylor studied history at places as varied as Yale, Harvard, and Edinburgh. When he commanded Louisiana brigades under General Thomas J. Stonewall Jackson in the 1862 Shenandoah Valley campaign in Virginia, however, it became apparent that Taylor was a "natural" soldier. After leading Jackson's sweep through Front Royal, Taylor drove Banks out of Winchester and whipped him again at Cross Keys. "Delightful excitement!" said Jackson as he greeted Taylor at Port Republic, then sent him up to capture Union artillery that had been bedeviling the Stonewall Brigade from high ground. Illness caused Taylor's reassignment to Louisiana before the Seven Days Battles, but — as Mansfield would demonstrate — it did not make him forget the lessons fighting with Jackson had taught him.

Taylor's opponent, Nathaniel Banks, rose from a job as a bobbin boy in a Massachusetts textile mill to governor of the Bay State and speaker of the U. S. House of Representatives. Abraham Lincoln appointed him a major general of volunteers despite his utter lack of military experience and kept him despite his appalling combat record.

Operators of Massachusetts mills, starved for cotton, advocated conquering Texas using men recruited with the expectation of receiving confiscated cotton-growing land as compensation. Banks was given the assignment. It was decided to send Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter’s flotilla of gunboats and transports up the Red River to support Bank's troops in their advance to Shreveport. General Banks designated Alexandria — about 50 miles up the Red River from its junction with the Mississippi and 125 miles downstream from Shreveport — as the assembly point for his expedition. Porter's vessels arrived on March 17, but rains delayed Banks' units; while waiting, the sailors stripped the vicinity of cotton bales, which they claimed as prizes of War. By late March, however, Banks had gathered roughly 30,000 troops of all arms at Alexandria and Porter had succeeded in getting his gunboats and transports over a mile of exposed rock that — when the river was at its usual water level — was normally a series of rapids. "I can take my ships wherever the sand is damp," he had boasted.

With Porter steaming upriver and Banks marching his units up the west bank, Taylor set Mansfield as the concentration point for the forces under his command. Soon came the division led by Brigadier General Jean Jacques Alfred Alexander Mouton, son of a highly respected former governor of Louisiana, a West Point graduate who had been wounded at Shiloh. So did Brigadier General Camille Armand Jules Marie Prince de Polignac; he, too, had fought at Shiloh. Texans in his outfit who could not pronounce his name nicknamed him Polecat. From below Alexandria came Major General John G. Walker's division of Texas infantry. Major General Thomas Green was among the warriors Sam Houston had led to victory over Santa Anna at San Jacinto in 1836; he was a hero in the Mexican War, and in 1863 he had cleared Galveston Island of Yankees. Green and his cavalrymen arrived near Mansfield in early April, but about half of his troopers lacked weapons. Brigadier General James E. Harrison's Texan mounted infantry performed scouting duties; Brigadier General St. John Richardson Liddell’s small cavalry units patrolled the Red River's east bank.

LUNCH - Mansfield Battlefield, catered BBQ – after lunch a tour of the Mansfield Battlefield Park by a local Park Ranger

MANSFIELD
A confederate victory resulting in Federal withdrawal, fought in 3 phases.

PHASE 1 Mansfleld

PHASE 2 Crossroads

PHASE 3 Chapman Bayou

Battle of Pleasant Hill

1415 Pleasant Hill Battlefield The Battle of Pleasant Hill occurred on April 9, 1864 and formed part of the Red River Campaign during the American Civil War when Union forces aimed to occupy the Louisiana state capital, Shreveport.

The battle was essentially a continuation of the Battle of Mansfield victory, which had caused the Union commander, MG Nathanial P. Banks, to send his wagons, with most of his artillery, downriver in retreat. However, both sides had been reinforced through the night, and when the Confederate commander, MG Richard Taylor launched an assault against the Union line, it was repulsed though at a high cost in casualties; the Union army retreated the next day. The majority of historians consider the battle to be a Union tactical victory, although some consider it to be a draw

1520 Blair’s Landing April 12, 1864 – on the Red River where BG Tom Green was KIA while his cavalry attacked the Federal fleet of gunboats and troop transports.

DINNER Merci Beaucoup Restaurant, Natchitoches, LA “Tones Bayou & Hydrology Aspects of Red River Campaign” – Dr. Garry Joiner, LSU, Shreveport. This was a hour drive back to Natchitoches where we had just been. It appears that due to a recent surgery, Joiner would meet us half-way, i.e. he lives and teaches at Louisiana University – Shreveport. No PowerPoint, spoke from a chair, a fan of David Dixon Porter, food was not as good as previous night – beer was a dollar per bottle less expensive.

Saturday May 6, 2023

WEATHER: 74 and a thunderstorm at 6 am Sunrise: 0651 Sunset: 1932 Alexandria, LA

TRAVEL: Bus left Marriott Bonvoy Avalon at 0745

Marriott Bonvoy Avalon – NO WIIFI, at least the towels were replaced, wastebaskets emptied – bed not made

The Kentucky Derby

The Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla – English pomp and ceremony with orb and scepter

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE

2023 – 72^nd Tour “The Red River Campaign”

American Cemetery – Natchitoches, LA claim to fame appears to be a scene in the movie Steel Magnolias – passed this last night

Trinity Church, Natchitoches, LA - – claim to fame appears to be a scene in the movie Steel Magnolias – past this last night

0855 - downtown Natchitoches along the Cane River – a nice area wished I’d have stopped here in 2015. The Cane River is now Cane Lake due to the Army Corps of Engineers, who sealed it up for flood control of the Red River.

Banks Retreat Route along Cane River/Cane River Island

Oakland Plantation

0955 - 117 CANE RIVER CREOLE National Historic Park –
I visited here on April 11, 2015. The Cane River region is home to a unique culture; the Creoles Generations of the same families of owners and workers, enslaved and tenant, lived on these lands for over 200 years. The park tells their stories and preserves the cultural landscape of Oakland (Bermuda) and Magnolia Plantations, two of the most intact Creole cotton plantations in the United States.

Oakland and Magnolia owe their physical integrity to the families that kept them intact for seven and eight generations. The Prud'homme family began what would become Oakland in 1780's. Magnolia traces its mid-18th century origin to the LeComte and later, the Hertzog family.

The cultural landscapes at Oakland and Magnolia represent a microcosm of a broader American experience. Like the country as a whole, Oakland and Magnolia survived periods of prosperity, poverty, and war. Their endurance is a testament to Prud'homme, LeComte, and Hertzog families, but those could not have succeeded without the contributions of all the people who lived and worked on each plantation.

Banks Advance and Retreat

MONETT’S FERRY - 23 APR 1864 a drive by – sort of – did not stop – no marker. The Battle of Monett's Ferry saw a force led by Brigadier General Hamilton P. Bee attempt to block a numerically superior Union column under Brigadier General William H. Emory during the Red River Campaign. . Confederate commander Major General Richard Taylor set a trap for the retreating army of Major General Nathanial P. Banks near the junction of the Cane River with the Red River. Taylor assigned Bee's troops to plug up the only outlet from the trap while Taylor's other forces closed in from the rear and sides.

Emory responded by sending a brigade to cross the river upstream and turn Bee's right flank. After some fighting, Bee ordered a retreat, fearing that his troops were about to be surrounded. This allowed Banks' army to escape the trap and reach temporary safety at Alexandria, LA. Taylor was so disappointed that he relieved Bee from command, despite the fact that Bee's subordinates agreed with his decision to withdraw. However, the campaign was not yet over.

LUNCH Cane River Commissary, Natchez, LA – a good burger, fries and peach cobbler – just down the road from Cane River Creole NHS

1330 - Bailey’s Dam

1400 - “Siege of Alexandria – Fort Randolph/Fort Buhlow – Corps of Engineers Site – Tours of Forts & Dam Site by Rich Holloway–

1530 - Fort DeRussey, Marksville, LA– Historical landmark in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana. Tour of Fort site by Steve Mayeux

DINNER – FUN NIGHT Kent Plantation House - grounds and presentation by LeAnn Raines on how the federals burned the town of Alexandria. Buffet supper – beverages were included - I purchased “The Red River Campaign and Its Toll – 69 Bloody Days in Lousiana, March-May 1864” by Henry O. Robertson.

Sunday May 7, 2023

CHICAGO CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE

2023 – 72^nd Tour “The Red River Campaign”

WEATHER: 67 degrees at 0530 mostly cloudy – forecast high in the low 80’s, in Memphis at Sunrise: 0750 Sunset: 1951 Memphis, TN

TRAVEL: Bus left Marriott Bonvoy Avalon at 0745 – Returned at noon, left for Memphis, TN at 1220 – arrived 1845 – heavy rain just south of Memphins starting about 1730

Marriott Bonvoy Avalon – NO WIFI, Reminiscent of staying in a trailer parks – once the place filled up the WIFI stopped workingl

0700 Mass was held in a small alcove of the lobby by Fr. Tom, a priest who attended the tour

Defosse House

0835 Defosse House - Mansura, LA – the only ante-bellum structure left
in Mansura. On the Union gun line, where 70 guns faced 32 of the Confederates that were behind a ditch of abatis. The abatis started on fire – the event was over. 32,000 Federals were facing 6,000 pursuing Confederates.

Battle of Mansura – Mansura, LA below is from the NPS website

OTHER NAME:

Smith's Place, Marksville

CAMPAIGN:

Red River Campaign

DATE(S):

March-April 1864

PRINCIPAL COMMANDERS:

MG Nathaniel Banks, US, MG Richard Taylor CS

FORCES ENGAGED:

0 total (US 0; CS 0;)

ESTIMATED CASUALTIES:

0 total (US 0; CS 0;)

DESCRIPTION:

As Maj. Gen. Nathaniel P. Banks's Red River Expeditionary Force retreated down Red River, Confederate forces under Maj. Gen. Richard Taylor attempted to slow the Union troops' movements and, if possible, deplete their numbers or, better yet, destroy them. The Union forces passed Fort DeRussy, reached Marksville, and then continued east. At Mansura, Taylor massed his forces in an open prairie that controlled access to the three roads traversing the area, where he hoped his artillery could cause many casualties. Early on the morning of May 16, the Union forces approached, and skirmishing quickly ensued. After a four-hour fight (principally an artillery duel), a large Union force massed for a flank attack, inducing the Rebels to fall back. The Union troops marched to Simmesport. Taylor's force could harass the enemy's retrograde but was unable to halt it.

RESULTS:

Union Victory

0925 Battle of Yellow Bayou - May 17, 1864

Major General Nathaniel P. Banks during his retreat in the Red River Campaign, following the battles of Mansfield and Pleasant Hill, reached the Atchafalaya River on May 17. Once on the other side of the river he would be shielded from the continuous Confederate harassment. But he had to wait to cross the river until the army engineers constructed a bridge.

Parker Hills - Battle of Yellow Bayou

On the 18th, Banks learned that Major General Richard Taylor's force was near Yellow Bayou so he ordered Brigadier General A.J. Smith to stop them. Since Smith could not comply himself, he ordered Brigadier General Joseph A. Mower to meet Taylor. The Yankees attacked and drove the Rebels to their main line. The Confederates counterattacked, forcing the Federals to give ground.

The Union force finally repulsed the Confederates. This see-saw action continued for several hours until the ground cover caught fire forcing both sides to retire.

Yellow Bayou was the last battle of Banks's ill-fated Red River Expedition, and it insured that the Federals would escape as an army to fight again.

Bayou de Glaize May 16, 1864

Atchafalaya River - Simmeseport Landing

1035 Simmesport Landing – Atchafalaya River – here’s where
LTC Bailey suggested that the army transports be lined up side-by-side across the river – planking and rails were laid down and the Union Army crossed the river. With no bridging material, the Confederate pursuit ended.

White Hall Plantation

1055 White Hall Plantation – just a drive by – privately owned – no maker -
served at Banks’ HQ in the 1863 and 1864 campaign. Just off Bayou Atchafalaya.

Box lunch on bus – LUNCH check out & depart at noon

4th Visit to Beale St
3rd visit to this place
no name - no roof-
no cover - just fantastic
music

Second Street - Memphis

HILTON GARDEN INN - MEMPHIS, TN - WIFI WORKS - two blocks from Beale Street – downtown Memphis – valet parking. Dinner of Montreal Pool Hall something (hot dogs) at the Kooky Canuck’s on 2^nd Street.

Monday May 8, 2023

WEATHER: 68 degrees at 0530 Sunrise: 0750 Sunset: 1951 Memphis, TN

TRAVEL: left Memphis, TN at 0720 travelled to Burlington, WI – arrived 1700

The National Park Travelers Club is an organization for anyone who enjoys
visiting our National Parks and everyone collecting cancellations in the Passport to Your National Parks Program. A member is eligible to receive recognition of their progress in visiting the US National Park Service units. Awards include the Master Traveler Award, given annually to members who visit and collect stamps from a certain number of units a year, the Lifetime Achievement Award, awarded when an NPTC member visits 100, 200, 300, 400 or more units, and more! I joined the club on line in 2019 and have qualified for all of the awards. They hold an annual conference. Below is an excerpt from their 2023 Convention Newsletter:

Article from The Stamp Pad, Official Newsletter of the National Park Travelers Club, Volume 14, No 3 Convention 2023 http://wwwparkstamps.org

My travels - Sites run by the National Park Service
Red - 2014 White 2015 Blue 2016 Yellow 2017 Gold 2018+

145^th NGAUS GENERAL CONFERENCE

Reno, Nevada

18-22 August 2023

Thursday August 17, 2023

WEATHER: a pleasant day

TRAVEL: DELTA LV MKE 1528 AR MSP 1641 – LV MSP 1811 AR 1951

Silver Legacy Hotel

‘Not my first rodeo’ I arrived late and a day early – do not plan to golf on Friday – just hang out – travel on Delta was on miles – limited flights into Reno – I didn’t want to leave MKE when the sun came up, therefore, I chose to leave late afternoon and arrive around 8 pm. Returning via Southwest. Rode the hotel shuttle form the airport. Slow check in. I’m on the 25^th floor facing east – nothing but low building between me and the sunrise over the mountains.

SILVER LEGACY HOTEL – I’ve stayed here in the past – it part of the ROW
complex – the Silver Legacy-Circus Circus-El Dorado are all interconnected – to what appears to be on roof. The whole complex appears to be connected to Ceasar’s

The Food Court at Circus Circus was all but closed by 10 pm – I was looking forward to Panda Express but they were literally empty - went to Café Central for a couple of Lite’s and a chicken lettuce wraps. Well at least I got my Asian.

Friday August 18, 2023

WEATHER: 59 at 0540, clear – forecast high of 87 Sunrise: 0614 Sunset: 1951

TRAVEL: Silver Legacy-St. Thomas Cathedral-El Dorado-Brew House-Silver Legacy

SILVER LEGACY HOTEL

145^th NGAUS GENERAL CONFERENCE, Reno, Nevada

Pre-conference activities included golf (a long time standard); a motorcycle ride (seems to have become a standard since the conference in Milwaukee 1998; and now a hike (started with a fourteener) when the conference was in Denver. The evening was traditionally a Company Grade Mixer – now expanded to include a Warrant Officer and Field Grade Mixer.

FIELD GRADE MIXER – 1730-2200 Freight House – Reno Aces Ballpark-I didn’t attend – thinking maybe I should have – had dinner with the Gundlach’s and Mathews’.

I met CPT Cory Rober – I’m supposed to be his ‘mentor’ - However, COL Dan Statz took all the CGO’s into tow and fed them a version of how to ‘grow’ your career through networking, etc. Still a conference of full-timers for full-timers. i.e. more than 90% of the attendees are or were full-timers. Found out later that this is Rober's 2 or 3rd conference - why did he need a mentor?

Saturday August 19, 2023

WEATHER: 59 at 0600 fair, forecast high of 88, rain coming ‘southwest tropical downpours’ due to the remnants of Hurricane Hilary - Nevada expecting over 2” of rain – big potential for flash flooding – cooler forecast Sunrise: 0615 Sunset: 1949

TRAVEL: The ROW bus to the Reno-Sparks Convention Center

SILVER LEGACY HOTEL

145^th NGAUS GENERAL CONFERENCE, Reno, Nevada

The 2023 tradeshow has more exhibitor space than ever before, with NGAUS selling 70,000 square feet for the event in Reno, Nevada, Aug. 19-21.

I volunteered an hour to man the WINGA booth advertising the 2025 Conference to be held in Milwaukee 22-25 August 2025.

GENERAL BUSINESS – 1^st Session

1230 Call to Order - Maj. Gen. Janson “Durr” Boyles, Mississippi NGAUS Chairman of the Board · Posting of the Colors · Pledge of Allegiance · National Anthem · Service Songs · Invocation

1245 Nevada Welcome

1315 Roll Call of States

Honorable Frank Kendall
Secretary of the Air Force

1415 Keynote Address 2:15 p.m. The Honorable Frank Kendall Secretary of the Air
Force – a consistent message – same as the Air Force Chief of Staff several years ago – China is the enemy. The guy spoke from in front of the podium without notes – “China is investing to overcome the US in the Pacific.” He spoke about reality – ‘in the Gulf War we did better than we thought and for ten wears we sat back on our laurels – China and Russia were considered threats – but they did not stop investing - developing’ – ‘then Russia invades Ukraine and did not win decisively and did not expect the NATO (European response’ – ‘China’s goal is to win decisively in Taiwan – i.e. in two or three days – like our Desert Storm’ - ‘China is targeting our international partnerships and space’ - Kendall said that we need “Air and Space Authorizations and Appropriations” - He ended his message with a paraphrased quote from Patton – ‘too late' describes a military failure – he cautioned Suggested reading “Recoding America” – I put the book on my Christmas Wish List

1500 Exhibit Hall Break Refreshments Available

General Hokanson
Chief of the NGB

1530 State of the National Guard with Q&A - Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, Oregon Chief of the National Guard Bureau - after manning the NGAUS 2025 Milwaukee booth for an hour – I returned to the hall to hear Hokanson. I missed most of his presentation – prepared remarks – but did arrive for the Q&A – it appeared to be a CGO (Company Grade Officer) scramble to the mic in order to get a 4 star’s coin. Even with that, still some good questions mostly all from young full-timers, who appear to be scrambling for upward mobility and recognition in their careers.

Referencing benefits Hokanson appeared to support same benefits for AD, AGR, Technician, Traditional guardsmen – if you wear the uniform there should be no difference in benefits – however Congress votes this issue – an easy one for him to support. And also give up on.

Always Ready, Always There – Hokanson closed with a look to the future – Recruiting & Retention – ‘tell people what you do’ – ‘we fight for our principles and values’

1615 Recess to the States Dinner

STATES DINNER – a change in format this year – the States Dinner is usually held the last evening of the conference. Suggested attire is western wear at the Reno Events Center – a 2 block walk – Salad, beans, chicken, steak, potatoes, and dessert served family style. We were right underneath the speakers – too loud – nothing but the bas drum – had to move back to actually hear and talk.

Sunday August 20, 2023

WEATHER: 59 and cloudy – forecast high of 71

TRAVEL: The ROW – St. Thomas Aquinas Church - Reno-Sparks Convention Center

SILVER LEGACY HOTEL

St. Thomas Aquinas
stained glass window

St. Thomas Aquinas

Mass at St. Thomas Aquinas Cathedral – about a 10
minute 4 block walk. “There is room enough for all” – several people in uniform and the priest recognized the National Guard attending the convention for their service to the country as an add on to the intentions. A good homilist – referencing – St. Paul and his invitation to the Gentiles not just Jews – apparently the closing remarks at the recent ‘youth congress’ echoed the gospel – ‘there is room enough for all’

145^th NGAUS GENERAL CONFERENCE, Reno, Nevada

GENERAL BUSINESS – 2^nd Session missed the morning until I got there after mass

0800 Call to Order – Maj. Gen. Janson D. Boyles, Mississippi, NGAUS Chairman of the Board Determination/Presentation of Junior/Senior Minuteman

0810 Treasurer’s Report – Brig. Gen. Kenneth L. Ross (Ret.), Louisiana

0815 Committee on Credentials & Rules Verification Report0815 Maj. Gen. Frank McGinn (Ret.), Massachusetts, Committee Chairman

0820 First Individual Awards Ceremony – Lt. Col. Seana Eason, Arkansas, NGAUS Awards Committee

0835 Membership Awards Ceremony – Maj. Gen. Randall Simmons (Ret.), Georgia, Membership Committee Chairman

0850 The Legal Foundation of the National Guard – Maj. Gen. Donald Dunbar (Ret.), Wisconsin, former NGAUS Chairman of the Board

0930 Exhibit Hall Break

1030 Looking Ahead to the 146th General Conference & Exhibition – Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, the Adjutant General of Michigan It appears Michigan and the Virgin Islands are co-sponsoring - yes Detroit has changed - seems the MING gets plenty of money from the State - how do they do that?

1045 National Guard Educational Foundation Report – 10:45 a.m. Mr. Will Roulett, NGEF Deputy Director

1100 Keynote Address –

Gen. Randy A. George, Army Chief of Staff Nominee

Attended with the CSM of the Army – I think I’m going to like this guy . . . seems to be much more personable – and unassuming than Milley was/is

“the strategic environment is more complex and dangerous than I’ve ever seen it”

Priorities:

1. WARFIGHTING – ‘only do what we need to do – we’re here to fight’

2. DELIVER READY COMBAT POWER – reinforce commanders at all levels – do we need all the ‘services’ we have added requirement in the last 20 years – he spoke about predictive maintenance – ‘perhaps we service too much’

3. CONTINUOUS TRANSFORMATION – we’re learning lessons from Ukraine – the battlefield is constantly changing – bring back some of the TTP’s from the 90’s – he wasn’t specific – but he wants to reduce the complexity of our nodes – he wants lean and mean formations from Brigade on down – the Cdr, S2, S3 and FSO all looking at one screen in the back of one vehicle.

4. STRENGTHEN THE PROFESSION – ‘learn from each other’ “Discipline and standards are the reasons we will be successful in battle” Do the Right thing’ – the National Guard is 40% of our operational force

He took questions from the floor

The ACFT is here to stay

Of course a FTS manning question as always, was answered by LTG Jensen, Director of the ARNG – read his current article in the Guardsman

Towed artillery will become move mobile i.e. on a truck platform-wheel systems

‘In Afghanistan we owned the skies, there was no electronic warfare, the next time we’ll face Unmanned Aerial Systems and targeting systems’

“Predictability starts with training management”

Recruiting – we’ve got to tell our story

1145 Presentation of 2023 NGAUS Harry S. Truman Award – U.S. Rep Trent Kelly, R-Miss.

Recess to Luncheons & Other Sessions – Noon Retired/Separated Caucus-Luncheon - elected BG (Ret) Mike Oster as the Army Retiree Member of NGAUS. HE wants to network retirees – we’ll see what he can get done. GEN Hokanson arrived at 1345 to answer questions. Healthcare for all Guardsmen – yes all RC - but he sees it especially important because of the ‘dual mission’ – state callups and the guardsmen should be covered.

Task Force Meetings – I attended the Fire Support Task Force 1400-1500 A12,A13

With MAJ Alicia Dorsset from Wisconsin currently on assignment in DC. Briefs by BG David Prichett (FA) and BG Richard Wholey (ADA). Each covered OPTEMPO - FORCE MANAGEMENT and MODERNIZATION of the branch.

TAKE AWAYS:

-The next generation howitzer will be wheel based – a GS role

-Extended Range Cannon Artillery

-HIMARS was described as Theater Fires – extended range

-Look for IBCTs in the war fight to be controlled by the DIVARTY

-The first Operational Fires Command (the old corps artillery) will be in the NG but it will be acquired as a trade off for a Fires Brigade.

-HIMARS will convert from 2x8 to 2x9

-BAE – has a nextgen gun called Archer – 3 rounds in 127 seconds- auto load

Dueling Pianos
"YMCA"

HOSPITALITY NIGHT

Puerto Rico - Silver Ballroom A&B at Silver Legacy – free small bottle of Don Q when you entered – had to buy your won drinks – not much action early in the evening - buffet

Guam – Hawaii - Rum Bullions at Silver Legacy – duo with a guitar loud and screechy

CT - NE - MA - NH - VT - Brew Brothers at El Dorado-loud DJ – had to buy drinks - food

Wisconsin - South Carolina – Michigan – Minnesota – Arizona - Aura Lounge at Silver Legacy - dueling pianos - food - 2 drink tickets

Dueling Pianos
"You've Lost That Loving Feeling"

Montana – Laugh Factory – not very busy – a DJ playing background music – no dancing – food was gone by the time I got there – 2 drink tickets

Alabama - Georgia - Nebraska - Tennessee - Texas - El Jefe Cantina – a let down a dance floor covered in mist, a DJ, no one dancing, no drink tickets, - a huge place but sparsely occupied -

BAE Systems – Top Golf at Silver Legacy - got a beer – and a few swings of the club

Aura Lounge at Silver Legacy dueling pianos were good for the last hour – a fun time

Finished the night at the Wisconsin Suite

Monday August 21, 2023

WEATHER: 60 and cloudy at 0700 - light rain in the morning high of 72 – partly sunny aby afternoon

TRAVEL: Reno-Sparks Convention Center – noticed gas at SHELL Regular priced at $5.18 cash price per gallon

SILVER LEGACY HOTEL

145^th NGAUS GENERAL CONFERENCE, Reno, Nevada

ARMY & AIR BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Army Presiding Officer:

Maj. Gen. Jimmie Cole, Tennessee, Vice Chairman-Army

SFAB Security Force Assistance Brigade. These folks were created for Afghanistan – ‘advisors’ – seems to conflict at times with the States Partnership Programs. “One Cpatin, One Team, One Country” – still not sure what this guy was really talking about. ADVISORS

Maj. Gen. Donn H. Hill - COMMANDER, SECURITY FORCE ASSISTANCE COMMAND, U.S. ARMY

Jensen’s last year as Director. He shared the stage with CSM Raines. I arrived as he was answering questions. BONUSES – favors paying lump sum retention bonus up front. PAY FOR DISTANCE LEARNING “I think it’s wrong (i.e. non pay). He called it “uncompensated duty” Jensen was very concerned about sending soldiers to war without training i.e. Rotation to CTC is necessary – look at Russia in Ukraine for what happens to an untrained army. “We are the only combat reserve of the army. HE complimented traditional guardsmen – I’m pretty sure he was speaking to a mostly full time (non-traditional) audience.

Lt. Gen. Jon A. Jensen - DIRECTOR, ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

GENERAL BUSINESS – 3^rd Session 1130-1300 – DID NOT ATTEND

Josh Turner

GOVERNOR”S FAREWELL RECEPTION & CONCERT – another format change. Entertainment was Josh Turner.

One drink ticket and $10 worth of vouchers towards the food trucks.

1700 The Plaza pre-party with the food trucks, beer garden, and music in front of the Reno
Ballroom across the street from the Silver Legacy. Crowded only 5 food trucks – went inside for a beer at 6:30 – no lines for drinks.

1800 Reno Ballroom doors for the Josh Turner concert will open, concert l starts at 6:55 pm

Josh Turner was better than expected – 1 1 ½ hour concert – country, gospel, bluegrass – a versatile band – banjo, steel guitar mandolin – lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass guitar, double bass, dobro and drums – the band moved around the stage a lot - – Josh has a deep voice – his concert tour brings him to the Dells on September 15 – I’d go see him except I have a wedding in Door County that weekend

Food trucks include plus two more:

775 Eats: Smash Burgers/Chicken Sandwiches/Chicken Strips/Coconut Shrimp/French Fries/Avocado Bites/Asparagus fries

Silver State Pie Co: Chicken Pot Pie/BBQ Pork Mac n Cheese Pot pie/ Cheeseburger/Jerk Chickpea/Salad/Pecan Pie

Chamacos Gourmet and Taco's; Hot Dogs/Wings/Salchipapas/Tenders/Bacon & Avocado Cheeseburgers/Milkshakes/All kinds of Tacos/Burritos – ate here after the concert among the last 10 to leave the area
Sierra Swirl: Flavored Ice Cream

Tuesday August 22, 2023

WEATHER: 56 and cloudy at 6 am in Sand Diego, 80 and sunny when I arrived home

TRAVEL: SOUTHWEST – LV RNO-0900 – AR LAS 1015 – LV LAS 1105 – AR MKE 1645 - not my favorite airline – but DELTA didn’t have any flights that arrived in MKE at a reasonable time

Saturday September 23, 2023

WEATHER: pleasant and sunny 70’s

TRAVEL: Burlington-Kenosha-Burlington

GREAT LAKES CIVIL WAR FORUM

Griersons Raid April 17 - May 2, 1863

THE REAL HORSESOLDIERS – Dr. Tim Smith, University of Tennessee – Martin, filling in for FAITHFUL SERVICE, UNSELFISH DEVOTION: Wisconsin Anecdotes During the Vicksburg Campaign – Andrew R. Miller, Lead Interpretive Ranger, Vicksburg NMP who was unable to make it.

This was the story of Benjamin Grierson’s Raid into Mississippi, starting April 17, 1863, in La

Grange, Tennessee and ending in Baton Rouge, LA on May 2. The raid was meant to be a diversion while Grant moved his army south and crossed the Mississippi River at Bruinsberg. The goal was to cut the Southern Railroad of Mississippi which was bringing supplies to Vicksburg from the east through. Smith made a detailed study of Grierson’s route and identified all the known campsites of the three Illinois Cavalry Regiments that were part of Grierson’s Brigade.

Leadership was the primary reason for Federal win and
Confederate loss at Champion Hill. Grant was
unencumbered from above and had trusting subordinates.
Pemberton was told to leave Vicksburg by Johnston &
stay by Davis. Subordinates did not have faith in him.

CHAMPION HILL: Decisive Battle for Vicksburg – Dr. Tim Smith, University of Tennessee –
Martin

Through all the long months of operations against Vicksburg, Champion Hill stands as the most decisive battle of that decisive campaign. Fought on May 16, 1863, Champion Hill almost literally decided the fate of Vicksburg and the Confederate army that defended it. Ulysses S. Grant even wrote to his friend William T. Sherman that night, “I am of the opinion that the battle of Vicksburg has been fought.” So why was the fight such a decisive Union victory? Terrain, numbers, and timing all played a role, but in the end, Leadership was the biggest factor in victory and defeat. This lecture compared and contrasted Union and Confederate Leadership at Champion Hill and analyzed the results mainly within the context of the two generals involved.

FORGOTTEN FOOTNOTES – Vicksburg’s Victims of Sickness and Disease – Rev. Robert Miller

Miller indicated that
soldiers boiled their
clothes to get rid of lice.
used the used for cooking.

Fr. Miller is a past president of the Chicago Civil War Roundtable and accompanied us on the recent Red River Campaign tour. Medical professionals studying the Civil War have concluded that sickness from infectious illness was a major factor affecting the Vicksburg campaign. Confederate forces had a greater total illness rate, diarrhea, and malaria than did the attacking Union forces, and it is reasonable to conclude that medical care affected the outcome of the Vicksburg campaign. Dr. Michael Brown avers that “The South’s significant medical disadvantages and increased risk of infectious diseases ensured a Northern victory.” The lecture examined the human-interest perspective of this aspect of the Vicksburg campaign, reflecting on the toll that sickness and disease played. Also considered were some of the forgotten stories of people who suffered and died because of health issues. Notable among those who died by disease were General John Bowen, Willie Sherman (son of MG W.T. Sherman), and several Catholic clergy ministering to troops at the time.

A NEW LOOK AT OLD ABE’S COLOR GUARD – Analyzing a Historical Image Using Artificial Intelligence – Dr. Xukai Zou, Indiana University, Purdue University

The Wisconsin Veterans Museum has this photo with some names identified on the back. Dr. Zou and his team used AI techniques to prove or disprove the identities.

One of the most well-known images of the Civil War is that of the 8th Wisconsin Infantry Color Guard and their live eagle mascot, Old Abe

Old Abe mascot of the 8th WI

, following the fall of Vicksburg, Mississippi in July 1863. Despite the subsequent fame of this iconic image, the true identities of many of the color guard members have been lost to time. In this work, researchers from Purdue University Indianapolis, assisted by Civil War historians, reexamine evidence from primary and secondary sources to identify a group of soldiers who potentially appear in the image. Using state-of-the-art, artificial intelligence-based face recognition techniques, researchers evaluate the relative likelihood of several of the color guard members’ potential identities. As a result, of the eight soldiers in the photo the identities of 3 are positively identified, 2 still remain unidentified, 2 alternate identities for named color guard member are proposed and 1 is challenged and unknown.

ICE AGE TRAIL ALLIANCE

MAMMOTH HIKE CHALLENGE 2023

The first year of the Mammoth Hike Challenge was 40 miles in October 2020 celebrating 40
years of the Ice Age Trail, I did not participate in the 41 mile challenge for 2021 but did complete the 42 mile Mammoth Hike Challenge in 2022.

This year the challenge is to Hike, Walk, Run, or Backpack 43 miles on the Ice Age Trail during the month of October 2023 and visit 3 of Trail Communities to earn a hiking certificate and a limited-edition patch.

I have two families with children that I developed a hiking and cold cache program in order for them to learn more about Wisconsin and the Wisconsonian glacier and its unique glacial land forms.

The 43 miles can be combined with friends, family or a team to achieve 43 miles. Therefore, we do not each have to actually walk 43 miles. Miles are earned by walking the trail and achieving bonus miles:

Visit an additional Trail Community = 10 bonus miles

Attend a Mammoth Hike Challenge Event = 10 bonus miles

Become an Ice Age Trail Alliance member = 10 bonus miles

Volunteer with the Ice Age Trail Alliance = 10 bonus miles

Complete a ColdCache = 5 bonus miles

Take someone on their first ever Ice Age Trail Hike = 5 bonus miles

Share a Challenge Experience on social media = 5 bonus miles

SATURDAY OCTOBER 7, 2023

WEATHER: 41 at 0800; high of 54 winds from the NW at 10-15 mph, clear and sunny

TRAVEL: Burlington – Kettle Moraine VC – Hwy 67 Parking Area off Mile 883.3 of Eagle Segment – Lapham Peak tower parking area 895.9 mile off Mile 895.9 of Lapham Peak – Delafield (N Genesee St) – Revere’s Wells St Tavern – Culver’s Mukwonago - Burlington

SOUTH KETTLE MORAINE VC 5 ColdCache miles

ATOP A LONG STEEP SIDED ESKER 5 ColdCache miles

Park South Kettle Moraine VC Southern Unit KMSF Headquarters off Mile 877 of Stony Ridge

Walk to esker and return 2.0 miles Stony Ridge Segment

Brady's Rock and the Niagara Escarpment

GLACIAL LAKE SCUPPERNONG 5 ColdCache 42.90992-88.47643 GLACIAL LAKE BED

BRADYS ROCKS 5 ColdCache 42.90523-88.48042 ESCARPMENT Park Hwy 67 parking area off Mile 888.3 of Eagle Segment

Walk Scuppernong/Brady’s Rocks & return 2.4 miles Eagle Segment

Brady's Rocks

Eagle Segment

LAPHAM PEAK OBESRVATION TOWER 5 ColdCache miles

KETTLE MORAINE

View of Holy Hill from the Observation Tower
Upper Lake Nebahbin in the foreground
- a distance of about 51 miles via the IAT

This is also an Earthcache located in Lapham Peak State Park. It is also called GOVERNMENT HILL. Kettle Moraine is an area of the state that has lots of evidence of glaciers! Wisconsin was covered by glaciers for parts of the Quaternary period. The Lake Michigan Lobe covered the eastern part of the state, while the Green Bay Lobe covered most of the rest of the state, all but the driftless area in the southwestern corner of the state. These glaciers reached their maximum extent about 18,000 years ago.

The discontinuous ‘line’ of the kettle moraine (roughly between Manitowoc and Beloit) is where the two glacier lobes met. They met up against the Niagara Escarpment and they each left behind their own sediment, leaving an obvious mark of where they had met up. One will notice that there are many depressions in the kettle moraine… not just a line of hills. This is because there was ice buried underneath the sediment left behind. It would melt, and then the sediment would fall into the earth where there had been ice… and a depression was created. These were called kettles because they resemble the cast iron kettles used in the 1800’s.

Lapham Peak is named after Increase Lapham. He was interested in many of the different parts of science and how they worked together. Lapham is most known as being the 'Father of the US Weather Service.'

Park Lapham Peak tower parking area off Mile 895.9 of Lapham Peak Segment

By itself this is a delightful walk along the Bark River

Park in City of Delafield (N Genesee St) Hike to Cushing Park Rd and return 1.2 miles Delafield Segment

TEAM GAPINSKI Burlington

TRAIL MILES 5.6

COLDCACHE MILES 25.0

SHARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA 5.0 https://davegapinski20.blogspot.com/2023/01/dave-gapinskis-travels-2023-san-diego.html

TOTAL MILES 35.6

Trail Community Delafield 1 of 3

FRIDAY October 27, 2023

WEATHER: 60’s – rainy – from mist to drizzle to downpour

TRAVEL: Burlington – Hartland – Hartford - Slinger – West Bend - Burlington

The primary purpose of today’s adventure was to visit Holy Hill and, in the process, achieve 9 ColdCache sites and hike a few miles of several Ice Age Trail segments. Along the way we also visited several Ice Age Trail Communities. We also visited the yard of ‘skeletons on bikes’ along Holy Hill Rd.

HARTLAND MARSH 5 Cold Cache miles

Park Maple Ave Wayside 0.2 miles Hartland Segment

MARSH

MONCHES TRIFECTA 5 Cold Cache miles

Park CTH Q & CTH E 0.4 miles Monches Segment

TERRACE/HUMMUCKY

Hummock is geologic term referring to a small mound above ground. An accumulation of supraglacial debris on the glacial surface results in hummocky topography.

ESKER: ITS IRISH AND ITS OUR EMERALD ISLE 5 Cold Cache miles

Park along Emerald Dr hike to esker 0.4 miles Lowe Lake

ESKER

A PLIGRIMS SACRED HOME 5 Cold Cache miles

Park Station Way Rd picnic area

Hike to erratic lg boulder and back 0.6 miles Holy Hill Segment

ERRATIC

This is a very large boulder – a special boulder because this site is not its natural home. The bedrock here is dolomite. This erratic is granite, carried very far from its home many miles northeast of here.

POLK KAMES 5 Cold Cache miles

Park Cedar Creek Rd 0.4 miles Cedar Lakes Segment

KAME

Kames are the result of glacial streams that flowed down through cracks or shafts in the ice sheets that were thousands of feet above the current land. Several prominent kames such as Holy Hill, Powder Hill and Little Switzerland amid a cluster known as Polk Kames dominate this landscape.

ESKERS: ANCIENT GLACIAL RIVERBEDS 5 Cold Cache miles

Park Paradise drive IAT West Bend Trailhead 0.4 miles West Bend Segment

ESKER

The word esker if derived from the old Irish Gaelic eiscir, meaning ‘ridge of gravel.’ Eskers are formed from meltwater water flowing in channels along zones of weakness at the base of the glacier. Melting water and debris are trapped in the ice from the last glacial advance, fall through the cracks in the glacial until they hit the bottom.

WEST BEND’S ARTESIAN WELL 5 Cold Cache miles

Park Ridge County Park South Parking 0.3 miles West Bend Segment

SPRING

A well whose source of water is a confined (artesian) aquifer. The water level in artesian wels stands at some height above the water table because of the pressure of the aquifer. This well was drilled in 1939 to depth of 940 ft and cased with pipe to a depth of 280 ft. It provided uninterrupted drinking water to the community for over 50 years. I no longer flows because pressure from municipal wells have reduced the ground pressure which forces water out of the well.

WEST BEND’S EXTRA SPECIAL ESKER 5 Cold Cache miles

BOULDER JUNCTION 5 Cold Cache miles

Park near Taco Bell/Culver’s 0.3 miles West Bend Segment ESKER/ERRATIC

VISIT 3 TRAIL COMMUNITIES

Delafield, Whitewater, Milton

BONUS TRAIL COMMUNITIES

HARTLAND, WEST BEND,

SLINGER,JANESVILLE 40 miles

TEAM GAPINSKI Dave, Kaleb, Josie

TRAIL MILES 5.6 10/7/23

TRAIL MILES 3.0 10/27/23

COLDCACHE MILES 25.0 10/7/23

COLD CACHE MILES 45.0 10/27/23

TOTAL MILES 78.6

Trail Communities Delafield, Milton, Whitewater

Bonus Communities Hartland, West Bend, Slinger

Cross Plains, Verona

IAT 2023 Mammoth Challenge Completion Certificate and Patch

SUBMITTED CLAIM TO IATA FOR MAMMOTH HIKE CHALLENGE 2023 RECOGNITION - AMY & ANNABELLE ALSO PART OF THE TEAM

Snowflake Blizzard Firn Ice Sheet Glacier

COLD CACHE AWARDS PROGRAM

· Level I: Snowflake. A water crystal that forms in the atmosphere and falls to the earth. Visit and log 3 ColdCache sites representing at least 2 different feature types.

· Level II: Blizzard. A long, severe snowstorm with intensely cold wind and fine snow. Visit and log 7 ColdCache sites representing at least 5 different feature types.

· Level III: Firn. Partially consolidated snow that has passed through one summer melt season, but is not yet glacial ice. Visit and log 12 ColdCache sites representing at least 9 different feature types.

· Level IV: Ice Sheet. A broad, thick sheet of ice covering an extensive area for a long period of time. Visit and log 18 ColdCache sites representing at least 14 different feature types.

· Level V: Glacier. An extended mass of ice, formed from snow falling and accumulating over years, that flows over a land mass. Visit and log 25 ColdCache sites representing at least 20 different feature types.

Certificates and patches for COLD CACHE Snowflake - Blizzard - Firn Recognition

SUBMITTED CLAIM TO IATA FOR RECOGNITION – Dave-Kaleb-Josie SNOWFLAKE – BLIZZARD - FIRN – Visited 12 Cold Cache Sites representing 9 feature types

SUBMITTED CLAIM TO IATA FOR RECOGNITION - Kristin SNOWFLAKE - BLIZZARD – Visited 7 Cold Cache Sites representing 5 feature types

A 4th year tradition - An Advent Calendar for me
'Not am IPA in the bunch'

So satisfying - a different treat every day - Only ONE I would not recommend
It was DAY 7 - SHINERS CANDIED PECAN - too sweet - it went down the drain

Dave Gapinski Travels 2020-2023

Friday, January 20, 2023

Dave Gapinski's Travels 2023 San Diego - Holland America Panama Canal Cruise -

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