June 17, 2020
Because my wife and I used to own a beach home in Florida, I’m keeping a close and worried watch on the pandemic there, especially the deluge that started when the state reopened. Doctors, scientists, everyone with a few active brain cells warned it was too soon. Now they’re setting records for new cases every day. Bars that just got back in business are shutting down again for deep cleaning.
I hate to see this in a place where I spent so many happy times. But the things that make it special — the beautiful beaches, the sun, and the loose, easy atmosphere — often lead people to shed both their inhibitions and their common sense. The ones who packed the bars and restaurants are like the unfortunate soul who drowned last week, a few miles from my old house.
SANTA ROSA BEACH — A 47-year-old Texas man died Tuesday after he was pulled from the Gulf of Mexico in South Walton County, officials say. Michael Willard Bratcher was in the water just west of the Walton Dunes Beach Access when several bystanders noticed he was in distress, Beach Safety Director David Vaughan said. Double red flags were flying at the time. That means the water was officially closed because conditions were too dangerous, and he went in anyway. This happens all the time during tourist season.
I’d like nothing better than to be back there now, swimming, walking along the shore, sitting under the stars at night, and having a great old time. That is, nothing except living a while longer, not putting anyone else at risk, and enjoying the things I still have, including my writing.
As much as I love a plate of Gulf shrimp and a cold beer, you couldn’t drag me into a saloon in Florida. How’d you like to be one of the sixteen friends who all tested positive, and maybe infected others, after a big night out? The beaches will still be there after we have a vaccine, folks. Take care and be safe.
We’ll always have seashells 
Sunset on my favorite beach
I drive a school bus. Well, not lately, but it’s what I used to do. On Monday I attended my yearly recertification class which I was assured would be “safe”. 61 people in a large auditorium. I was one of 6 wearing a mask. Alabama is peaking, too. 🤦♂️