Lexington Reservoir An All Terrain Bicycling Adventure with Unexpected Radical Detours

“Sometimes the best [fun] things in life are unexpected.”—Faith Sullivan

Bill and I decided to go to the Lexington Reservoir in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We have done this ride a great number of times. At first in was pretty uneventful, that is until we got to "Road Closed" sign, except for deliveries. So we slipped through until we hit another road closed sign that at first glanced seemed more formidable due to a large collapsed road under repair. Bill found a narrow opening closer to the canyon below. The other option was lifting our bikes over the cement barrier and make our way to the far left where there was an unobstructed way to continue our ride. I just had a dental implant the day before, and the last question I asked my oral surgeon “Can I ride my bike.” He said "yes, but be careful not to fall!” I thought to myself, when he said yes, I don’t think he was envisioning this.

We chose the narrow path. It was a radical detour to be sure. Bill took the lead to show me it was doable. Looking back at the photos Bill took of me coming through, it is hard to imagine we actually made it. As they say it was all down hill from here. We were surrounded by beauty. We enjoyed that fresh mountain air and stunning views of the reservoir from up above and at the water’s edge below. The last section however, was a bit perilous. There is a narrow section near the water’s edge. Recent rains cause it to be muddy and it took more time to navigate. Though we took it slow, our bike tires were fishtailing back and forth as we slogged through the thick muddy terrain. In fact we had encounter variable terrain: paved, gravel, rock, dirt and mud. It was clear sailing from here. As we made our way back home along the Los Gatos Creek Trail, stopping briefly to view the Vasona Reservoir.

Postscript: The only creepy thing that happened was Bill pretending to eat a banana slug he found on a muddy surface behind the cement barrier of the closed off road and pretended he was going to eat it. The banana slug which happens to be the most common slug on campus is the mascot of UCSC.

Exploring The Guadalupe River Art Walk & Lunch at the San Pedro Square Market

During our 23-mile roundtrip ride to San Jose, what caught my eye in particular was the colorful mural that's called “We Are Still Here” by retired postal worker and muralist, Alphonso Salazar (2021), that dominates the wall along the Guadalupe River that flows through downtown San Jose. The mural recognizes the Muwekma Ohlone that were the first inhabitants of the region for around 10,000 years. It portrays the face of Ohlone Chairwoman Charlene Nijmeh, adorned in a warrior eagle headpiece with a basket-weave pattern and a hummingbird warrior face mask, a tribute to the indigenous tribe's creation story. The river itself has been a major ancestral heritage site for approximately 2,000 year, which the tribe’s leadership has had oversight on since 2012 as part of their reclamation process.

Staying on the art theme, there has been a movement over the years to have murals commissioned by artists to paint the bland grey sides of downtown buildings. One in particular that I took a photo of is a beautiful mural that runs the entire length of the hotel’s west-facing wall of the Hotel De Anza known for its interior art deco design, featuring the image of a woman, surrounded by a cornucopia of fruits and vegetables painted by Jim Minor called “Life Abundant."

We paused at "Monopoly in the Park" to stretch a bit. Located on the California Discovery Meadow, near a children’s museum, the board is the largest permanent version of the game in the world. There’s even an immovable set of dice that you can sit on or do a yoga squat pose on—as I did.

There was a lot of activity at the FurCon Confusion, annual furry convention at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center with outside Mexican food stalls set up for the lunch crowd. What’s a furry, you might ask? These are often animal of animal-themed characters in movies, cartoons, books, or comic. Many people who attend create their own characters, and some attend in costume. Though I’m told you don’t have to be a furry to attend. Before heading back home, Bill and I ate a Chicken Banh Mi sandwich at the San Pedro Market, home to one of Spanish California’s last remaining structure from El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe.

Fists-up at the Olympic Black Power Statue at San Jose State University on MLK’s Birthday

Biking buddy Bill and I were surprised there were no activities scheduled in downtown San Jose in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr’s birthday yesterday. We decided to cut through the San Jose State University (SJSU) campus and I had a “duh,” moment. Right before us, as Bill reminded me, was the bigger than life olympic medal awards podium that we have seen before. It is associated with a silent protest by two San Jose State University African-American track and field medal winners, Tommie Smith and John Carlos. At the 1968 summer games in Mexico City, Smith won the 200 meters track gold medal, and Carlos took the bronze.

As the Star Spangled Banner played, both athletes, standing shoeless, bowed their heads and raised their fists in a defiant black power salute until the music ended. They intended to place the world spotlight on human rights, particularly injustice and inequality for African Americans. Unfortunately it was perceived as an aggressive political act. They were booed by the stadium audiences, and ceremony etiquette experts around the world became enraged. The two sprinters were expelled from the games and received numerous death threats to boot.

It took decades for the fury to die down, and in 2005, SJSU unveiled a heroic sized tribute—a 23 ft. tall sculpture of that moment in history they stood on the medalist awards podium.

The university sculpture conspicuously leaves out the 2nd place medalist, Australian Peter Norman (see the black and white photograph), who was criticized for wearing an Olympic Project for Human Rights pin, in solidarity with Smith and Carlos, who wore them. Norman declined to be depicted in the sculpture, which left the silver medal tier platform I was standing on—with Bill to my left open. Visitors are welcomed to pose and raise a fist. It so happened we met a friendly woman who was admiring the sculpture and offered to take our photograph with one of the most iconic images in world history.

An Ode to the Often Misunderstood Turkey Vulture I Encountered on the Way Back From a Bike Ride

“Let us praise the noble turkey vulture: No one envies him; he harms nobody; and he contemplates our little world from a most serene and noble height.”

—Edward Abbey

Have you even seen an old cowboy movie where a character is out in the desert, hot, lost, thirsty with an empty canteen looking up toward the sky to see circulating turkey vultures, worrying he was going to be their next meal. This is a myth or in modern day parlance "Fake News!” Vultures do not circle and follow dying animals and humans.

As I rode my bike on the block long tree-lined sidewalk leading to the entrance of our gated-community I saw what at first glance thought was a big crow. As I got closer I realized it was a turkey vulture. I had seen the tough fuchsia skin of its head, with a bone-white beak, and chestnut layered feathers that ended abruptly at its neck. They are typically not dangerous to humans or other animals. Despite a generally negative view from humans, they play an important role in the ecosystem by scavenging and cleaning up “carrion" which means dead animal flesh before it rots and poses a health risk.

In this case it appeared to be a dead squirrel. They possess an extraordinary keen sense of smell from a mile or two away. These peaceful animals that have a life span of up to 24 years pose no risk to your pets, children, or infants. I had to ride past the Turkey vulture and I knew it would probably slowly take flight as I got closer. I was prepared to take serial photos of its launch with my new i-phone 15 Pro. It was poetry in flight.

Postscript: It is interesting to note that there are dozens of stories in the Native American, Celtic, African, and Tibetan culture that praise the vulture as a beacon of spiritual renewal, cleansing, purification, and patience. In fact, Tibetan monks who believe in rebirth, say they want to return to earth as vultures in their next lifetime because they do not kill to survive. Perhaps, this is why the Cherokee refer to Turkey vultures as “Peace Eagles."

Recalling Martin Luther King and Visiting the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis & His Stand on Antisemitism

(short video clip link at end of post)

“Peace for Israel means security, and we must stand with all your might to protect its right to exist, its territorial integrity and the right to use whatever sea lanes it needs. I see Israel…as one of the great outposts of democracy in the world, and a marvelous example of what can be done, how desert land can be transformed into an oasis of brotherhood and democracy.”

—Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the spring of 2018, Cecile and I and our friends Nelson and Susan Bye spent an emotional morning visiting the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, the last stop on our riverboat cruise. 2018 marked the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination by James Earl Ray while King stood on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel which stood right before us. A funeral wreath of red and white carnations hung on the railing outside room 306, making it a symbol of the civil rights movement and becoming the first Civil Rights Museum in 1991.

In its’ day, the Lorraine Hotel hosted entertainers as Cab Calloway, Aretha Franklin, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, and B.B. King. The vintage cars in the parking lot represent the vehicles parked at the Lorraine Motel when Dr. King was killed. I was 13 when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., gave his historic “I have a dream” speech in 1963. The struggles of the civil rights movement during the 60s were hard to completely digest as a young teen. That said, I remember being moved by his inspiring and passionate oratory skills and courageous non-violent protests.

Sixty years ago, an estimated quarter of a million people assembled in front of the Lincoln Memorial for the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Many American Jews were active participants and leaders in the march including

Arnie Aronson, a little-known gifted organizer; Rabbi Uri Miller who recited the opening prayer; and Rabbi Joachim Prinz who delivered a stirring speech just before King’s historic words.

As the great Civil Rights activist, Reverend King advocated for equality, and against hatred, poverty and bigotry of all kinds. He was outspoken for Israel and Jewish people and against antisemitism and made this abundantly clear in one of his speeches. He once said: “When people criticize Zionists, they mean Jews. You’re talking anti-Semitism." As a preacher he certainly wouldn’t have favored war and the casualties of war; and certainly wouldn’t have approved of the Hamas hostage taking serial killers who crossed the Israeli border and beheaded babies, raped women, and slaughtered people including those who were simply attending a music peace festival.

Standing Tall an excerpt from Jamie McKenzie’s poem:

“Some kings rule their kingdoms sitting down

Surrounded by luxury, soft cushions and fans

But this King stood strong, stood proudly, stood tall…

Even in death Even today

Stands strong, stands proudly

Stands tall

And we remember

Video Clip link of Martin Luther King Jr., Against Antisemitism & Israel’s Right to Exist

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gsDKjWxB-k

Men at Work Instead of Jail & Riding my Bike on the San Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail

It was 45 degrees out with sunny blue skies, as I rode my bike onto the Los Gatos Creek Trail off Hacienda Drive.

The first thing I noticed were a slew of men in two areas wearing orange vests with yellow green stripes with the letters SWP stamped on the back. They were transported here in an old White Sheriff’s bus to do landscaping work. SWP stands for Sheriff’s Work Program, a Public Service Program whereby the Courts of Santa Clara County—where we live—identify low-risk offenders and sentence them to the Sheriff’s Work Program as an alternative to jail.

This reduces employment difficulties and related financial burdens for both the individual as well as society. Also, by serving in the Sheriff’s Work Program, it provides a valuable service to the community by alowing offenders to serve their sentences in a productive and cost effective way. Prior to being accepted the SWP participants are thoroughly screened by the Courts and the Probation Department prior to being accepted to the program. The participants serve their sentences on weekdays and weekends, allowing them to retain their regular employment. The Programs Unit has established about 67 locations throughout out the County where offenders can complete their sentences.

The other thing I noticed for the first time was a colorful historical marker by the National Park Service designating the area I had been riding on as the "Juan Bautista De Anza National Historical Trail” referred to as A Trail of Hope. It represents a familiar story of migrants crossing great distances and enduring hardships in search of a better life. Unlike the massive migration crossing our borders in the tens of thousands, some 30 families of soldiers, farmers and townspeople of European, Native American and African heritage traveled overland from New Spain (now Mexico) to establish the Mission and Presidio of San Fransisco, Mission Santa Clara and Pueblo of San Jose.

These growing communities altered the natural and cultural environment around the Bay Area. New agriculture and religious practices forever changed the traditional lifestyle of the native Ohlone tribe who already lived here. Throughout California, customs and cultures of settlers and native people intertwined, creating a unique “Californio” culture. This tale of hope and change goes on as today’s diverse cultures and communities continue to intermix and adjust to our changing world.

Memorial Tribute to Cecile's Beloved Cousin Joyce Berger Who Had a Heart of Gold

(Born: August 28, 1928—December 20, 2023)

“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure…you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”—Renee Wood

Cecile and I, and Jason were in Maui when she received a call on Wednesday, Dec 20 from her cousin Jeff Berger that his mother Joyce had passed away. She was 95. It has been said that the spring of generosity never runs dry for the person who willingly gives from the heart. This describes Joyce to a T. When Cecile and I first moved to San Jose, California in 1975, it was Joyce and her late husband Bill Berger who helped us find our footing when we were looking for a place to live and open my Podiatric Medical and Minimally Invasive Foot Surgical Practice. They referred us to a friend who was a realtor in our area that found us the perfect spot in an old neighborhood near the Municipal Rose Garden district. In the early years we would drive up to Sacramento to visit Joyce and Bill and their son Jeff. They invited us to stay at their home, and whenever we went out to eat lunch or dinner, they always picked up the tab. They wouldn’t have it any other way. Sometime later when she was still mourning Bill’s death, we invited her to join us in London and Rome. We had the most amazing and memorable time.

Throughout the years we became aware how Joyce helped many members of her family who fell on hard times or who had endured some setbacks in life. She was generous to a fault, but the truth is there is no fault in having a generous heart. Her first impulse is to give whether it be to her community, her synagogue, friends and family alike.

Five years ago, we were invited by Jeff to attend Joyce’s 90th Birthday party that was preceded by a ceremonial blessing (Kiddush) at the Mosaic Law Congregation. Rabbi Reuven Taff, the spiritual leader of the Conservative Temple led a vibrant, uplifting service, sprinkled with humor, warmth, love, scholarly readings and Hebrew chanting. Taff had trained at the Theological Seminary in NYC, and received his B.S. degree in Religious Studies from California State University (Northridge), pursued his rabbinical studies in Israel where he was ordained in 1988. And, last but not least, inn 1999 he was honored by President George H.W. Bush to preside over and conduct the first annual White House Chanukah Celebration with the President, Vice President and their families. Joyce adored her rabbi and the feeling was mutual.

There was an informal luncheon for about 200 congregants and family members following the service sponsored by Joyce’s son and family. Afterwards, we were invited to Joyce’s home for dinner along with some of her friends, neighbors, and other family members who came in from Northern and Southern California, Detroit, MI, Chicago and Macedonia.

Some of the photos include Joyce with Cecile and I, Joyce with her beloved granddaughter, Ari and various family members who I have come to know and love. I spent many a Thanksgiving with them over the years while attending Podiatric Medical School in Chicago. Marrying into a Jewish family has been a blessing. From one Virgo to another (Joyce's and my birthdays were two days apart and we either called or sent birthday cards to one another), thank you! Cecile and I will never forget your loving generosity. Heartfelt condolences to Jeff and the family including Joyce’s surviving sister Ruby Conway. May her memory be a blessing to all.

It’s a Boy: Welcoming our new Grandson Who Recently Made His Debut on the World Stage

“A new baby is like the beginning of all things—wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities—Eda J LeShan

A Heartfelt congratulations to our loving daughter Michelle and Kyle on the birth of our grandson "August William Lewis" who was born on January 9, 2024. Mother and child are doing very well. Our little bundle of joy weighed in at 7 lbs 8 oz. His big sisters Lyla, 5 and Emmy, 3 next month, were ecstatic as is the Lewis, Chien, and Augustine families who waited anxiously for little August to make his debut on the world stage. Just when you think you know love, someone so little, magical, and precious comes along to remind you just how big love really is. He’s already brought warmth, happiness and light into all of our lives. The first time I held him on my chest, I felt so peaceful as if I was breathing in new life into my heart. I know Nonnie Cecile agrees with me that you can’t buy happiness, happiness is born.

Kyle, who shares my interest in derivation and meaning of names, told me that the name August was inspired by the Augustine family name. August (pronounced “aw-gust” comes from the Latin word “Augustus." I had already researched the name August, which means “great, magnificent,” while Augustus—from which it came means—“consecrated” or “venerable. Kyle also added it mean "protector."

There are many nicknames associated with the name August and Augustine. My younger brother Steve, our late brother Michael and his boys (my nephews, Mikey, Andrew, Brock, and Alex), and my father I were called "Augie." Then there’s Auggo, Goose, Gus and Gusto. Lyla and Emmy like to call their new brother “Gus.”

Thank you soooo much, dearest daughter Michelle and Kyle for giving us the most handsome grandson! He’s already stealing hearts.

12 Longest Hours of My Life: An Afternoon with Yadin Gellman A Wounded Israeli Warrior on the Mend

“First of all, thank you for having me. I feel it’s very important for the whole world to hear all these stories and get the real and full picture of what’s going on here in Israel.” —Yadin Gellman

It sounded like a Hollywood movie, Yadin Gellman, an Israeli actor, and Commander of the IDF’s Special Forces, was with his team on October 7, after celebrating his 30th birthday the night before, organized by his girlfriend Adva Dadon, one of Israel’s most prominent television news journalists. But this was no movie. Gellman and his unit heard the missiles attack that fateful Saturday morning and was told this isn’t just another conflict. This is war. Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist group who assumed administrative control of Gaza Strip in 2007, launched a surprise attack against innocent civilians across the Israeli border. Many were attending a music peace festival. When he and his team passed through the military barricades they saw civilians who were in the war zone. When they got to kibbutz Be’eri, he saw something he never imagined even as a combat soldier. He saw babies that were killed in their bed, families where their loved ones were shot and their bodies treated in the worse way possible, others burned alive inside their rooms.

They went room to room, saving as many hostages as possible. On the way to the dining room, they saved 50 hostages. Kids were tied together and tortured in front of each other by Hamas terrorists. He and his team went to save them, when his right finger was shot off by an AK 47. They managed to take out that terrorist. Then, he got shot on his left side with three bullets, one blew a hole in his chest, his shoulder and his arm which he thought he had lost. The fighting continued. His team managed to take down all the terrorists and attempted to save Yadin and his dear friend David, his number two in command. Unfortunately, David sadly passed away in the helicopter, leaving behind his beautiful wife and 6 month off child. Yadin is here today, lucky to be alive. When he was loosing blood and there was a strong possibility he would die, he had two thoughts:

Number one, “I’m going to survive, no matter what," and two: "I should have married Adva.”

Yadin played a clip of him being interviewed by CNN while he was in the hospital. One of the reporters recounted all he had said he had gone through and asked "How are you doing emotionally…What you have seen is traumatizing…I don’t get how you recover from that. Considering all Yadin had been through he had the presence of mind to respond as follows:

“That’s a question that has to be asked by every Israeli here and abroad. We all have been traumatized as a nation. Our home has been penetrated. Our security has been shaken, and we see that pure evil has been living around us and inside our homes…How I’m doing and how my mental state is, is a question that is irrelevant now…I think we need to win the war, the next day we need to start taking care of ourselves both physically and mentally.” One of the reporters said that others they had talked to responded similarly, adding that they don’t have the luxury to assess their mental state because they were in battle and in survival mode. The reporter ended the interview by stating: “Yadin, you are indeed a hero. Sorry for your the loss of your friend David…and best of luck in your recovery.

Postscript: Yadin Gellman shared with us that ten years ago he gave up his religion and his family took it badly. But, after all he has been through, and survived, he has a new outlook on life and feels it is a miracle that he is alive and has renewed his faith and practice of Judaism. He also has begun to speak on college campuses like USC and sharing his story with the FBI, Pentagon officials, news outlets and social media groups.

Back in the Saddle: A 20-Mile Ride on My New Bike Since Returning from Maui

“It’s the beauty within us that makes it possible for us to recognize the beauty around us. The question is not what you look at but what you see.”—Henry David Thoreau

It took me three days before getting my energy back from respiratory viral symptoms (not Covid) I contracted toward the last half of our two week vacation in Maui. Some friends said, they couldn’t tell I was sick from the photos I posted during our stay. My response is life is about balancing the joys and struggles that visit us—sometimes in the same day or during a much anticipated vacation.

The late Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai said we must “laugh and cry with the same eyes.” I call it non-judgmental awareness or accepting what is. It’s not always easy to do, but we do the best we can. Integration is the ability to hold two realities simultaneously. The truth is that holding both positive and negative experiences is possible.

It felt good getting back on my new Specialized Como Turbo. It rides like a dream. I had a new bike rack adaptor installed at Wheel Away Bicycling Center in Campbell to accommodate my utility bag to hold tools, snacks, and often times buy take out food for dinner or lunch for Cecile and I. The forecast called for rain and I was able to squeeze in just under 20 miles on the Los Gatos Creek Trail and Oak Meadow Park before the rain began. The varied cloud formation, flowing creeks, reservoir spillways, wooden bridges, and varied terrain kept things interesting.

Merry Christmas to our Family & Friends. We’re on our way home to California🎄🎄🎄🎄🎅🎅💕💕💕

Exploring the Elaborate Asian Art & Sculptures & Exotic Wildlife and Manicured Gardens at the Hyatt Regency Resort

From the beach walk side of the Hyatt Regency Resort beyond the beautiful pools and water slides, are a network of streams, waterfalls, ponds, grottos, gazebos and a long bouncy rope bridge are lagoons and creeks that meander around and through a Japanese garden replete with lanterns and statuary, while ducks, white and black swans, doves, red-crested cardinals, African golden crowned cranes, and other exotic creatures walk the grounds.

One of my favorite things to do during our annual vacations in Maui is to mindfully explore the elaborate museum—quality Asian art and sculpture collection that is tastefully displayed in the inside corridors and amidst the lush manicured Japanese gardens of the Hyatt Regency Resort. The sculpture that first gets my attention is the white marble standing Buddha on the far left side of the front entrance whose hand gestures called (mudras) symbolize fearlessness. Many of the sculptures—are from the Thai and Chinese Buddhist tradition. The simple message of inner peace that the artwork inspires, is responsible for the appeal of Buddhist art among people around the world. In the fourth and fifth centuries B.C., the time of the great thinkers such as Plato and Socrates in Greece, Lao-Tzu, and Confucius in China, India had its own great philosopher, thinker, and inspirational teacher: called the Buddha (The Awaken One), who achieved enlightenment while meditating under a banyan tree.

Attending Lahaina Wildfire Survivors Housing & Healing Event on Kaanapali Beach: A Heartfelt Peaceful Protest

When I first saw about 20 pop-up tents and a large welcoming Ohana (means family in Hawaiian) tent across from Whaler’s Village and Leilani’s restaurant on Kaanapali Beach, I thought gee, this must be an arts and crafts show.

That was until I read some of the signs and posters: Fishing for Housing, Sign our petition for dignified housing, Keep Lahaina Lands in Lahaina Hands, Lahaina Strong, Homes for the Holidays, You want Workers? We need Housing, All I want 4 Christmas is Long-Term Housing,” and many more.

Yesterday afternoon, following a tribal flow yoga class I walked over to the homeless encampment. I met a few of the volunteer staff and community organizers to try to get a better handle on what was going on. I was told they are staying on Kaanapali Beach, exercising their “Native Hawaiian rights” to fish 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They planted fishing poles in the sand and are calling their action “Fishing for Housing.”

I was allowed complete access to take photos and listened to a number of politicians and advocates speak as the crowds grew larger.

One of those speakers was Paele Kiakona, a former hospitality worker and advocacy and communications coordinator for Lahaina Strong, who said: He and the coalition of 28 grassroots organizations are urging Maui Mayor Richard Bissen and Hawaii Gov. Josh Green to provide dignified housing solutions like converting short-term rental properties into long-term rentals; extending protections for renters against rental increases and evictions for at least a least a year; pushing for immediate mortgage deferral for all homes completely lost in the fire, and back end mortgage abatement of all properties that are not engaged in short term rentals.

Kiakona introduced one of the other organizers, Courtney Lazo who lost the Lahaina home she and her family lived in for five generations. She spoke about the pain about being shuffled around from one short term rental to another. "How does one start to rebuild their life and create a sense of normalcy, if you can’t even unpack?"

She added, “I like that we’re down here at Kaanapali Beach, some of the most expensive real estate in the world to serve as a constant reminder for everyone—this is the reality that the community is facing and they can’t just sweep it under the rug and pretend it doesn’t exist.”

Postscript: I was encouraged by the person who coordinates all the media appearances that the funds that Cecile and I donated three non-profit organizations right after the Lahaina wildfire tragedy occurred, was very timely and helpful including Marriott Ocean Club which matched all donations made up to $250,000.

Cecile and I Sitting on the Pineapple Chair: Maui’s Largest Centerpiece

Succulent pineapples became synonymous with gracious hospitality in colonial America. Sea captains who sailed the Caribbean would spear a pineapple on a fencepost outside their home to signal their safe return and welcome friends to come eat, drink and be merry.

According to a 2017 poll by Public Polling, the United States is a nation divided over whether or not pineapple is an acceptable pizza topping, with 47% of Americans approving, 32% disapproving, and 20% undecided.

Cecile and I are taking this opportunity to confess once and for all—on this pineapple chair—that we like pineapple topping on our pizza, a virtual taboo to some celebrities like Gordon Ramsay, Jimmy Kimmel, and Stanley Tucci. My Italian family and friends on the East Coast would probably take issue with adding pineapple on my pizza too. On the other hand Dwayne Johnson does eat pizza with pineapple, and I would venture that he has our back:-)

As to what country first put pineapple on pizza? It was in Canada in 1962 by a Greek immigrant called Sam Panopoulos, who along with his brother owned a restaurant in the province of Ontario.

Happy Birthday in Heaven Dad: Remembering our Trip to Italy with Mom aboard the Saturnia in 1953

Remember it was August 29, 1953, three days after my birthday. I was three years old. There were 205 passengers. We were going to visit mom’s family in Sicily. Mom was so beautiful. You lucky dog:) We sailed out of New York, Halifax, Lisbon, Gibraltar, Barcelona, Palermo, Cannes, and Genoa.

We were wearing those funny party hats when the photo was taken. It was built for the Cosulich Line and transferred to Italian Line in 1935 when it absorbed Cosulich Line. On May 8, 1935, she was used as troop transport for the Italian Government to east Africa (Eritrea). She was chartered to the International Red Cross for evacuation voyages from East Africa in 1942. She was taken over by the US Government and used as Francis Y. Slanger, a hospital ship. She was returned to Italian Line in late 1946 where her original name was restored. She returned to transatlantic sailing until 1965, when she was withdrawn from service. On October 7, 1965 she arrived at La Spezia, Italy to be scrapped and in 1966, she was scrapped by Terrestre Maritma.

Visiting the Pink Flamingos, Colorful Macaws, Shimmering Koi Fish & Christmas Decorations at the Westin Resort on Kaanapali Beach

Christmas season in Maui truly makes for the most wonderful time of year. When Cecile and I entered the corridor of the Westin Resort and Spa, we found ourselves drawn to the the decorative wall of a Poinsettia and green Ivy wall h\edge with the the words Island of Maui on one side and Aloha on the other. I’m still not sure if it is a true living wall plant or a high quality artificial replica. After a quick breakfast at Starbucks, Cecile and I watched the graceful pink Flamingos that inhabit the large water pond and waterfall area. It is a joy to watch them stand on one leg and see their bodies reflected in the water.

While on a camera safari many years ago, I had the opportunity to see huge flocks of flamingos gather in the shallow soda lake in the Rift Valley. They blanketed the lake, giving the impression that you’ve just entered a real life Candy Land. The Westin also has some decorative big than life flamingos that are beautifully designed to complement the Christmas trees. We also visited with Kalako, a female Scarlet Macaw and Bob the Blue Macaw. Bob likes to hula and wave goodbye with his wing, while Kalako likes to say “hello” to guests and visitors. I had seen the shimmering Koi fish earlier on my own. We ended the morning with some shopping for the grandkids, and I bought a couple of caps and a shirt from Tommy Bahamas before heading back to our place a the Marriott Ocean Club.

Another Lazy Day in Paradise: Last Dinner with Jason Before He Returned Home

“Maui is a symphony of colors orchestrated by the setting sun.”—Author Unkown

After ten days together, our son Jason flew back to the mainland. The time went shockingly fast and we miss him already. I took a long walk on the beach, and around the Kaanapali golf course. Last evening we had our final island dinner with Jason at Longhis, the same place we had dinner when we first arrived. We have a lot of history with Longhis. Before we had kids, Cecile and I first began going to the restaurant when the late Bob Longhi opened his first established on Front Street in downtown Lahaina in 1976, a year after Cecile and I moved to California.

In early 2019 after 45 years in business they closed that location. They eventually opened up their latest restaurant at Maui Marriott Ocean Club on Kaanapali Beach where we have the same spacious 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath, Ocean Front Villa Timeshare with a full kitchen on the 5th floor that we bought before the Lahaina Tower was built. For dinner Jason had the Rigatoni Bolognese with Italian sausage, Maui Beef, Red Bell Peppers, Tomato, Fennel, Ricotta and a touch of hot pepper. Cecile and I shared the same Italian treat along with a Greek Salad with Bulgarian sheep’s Feta.

Hang Loose Gesture: What it Symbolizes and How it Came to Pass

“Hang loose,” “Right on,” “Thank you,” “Things are great,” “take it easy.,” “Chill”—in Hawaii, also known as the “Shaka sign,” expresses all those friendly messages and more. As the story goes, the gesture traces its origin back to the early 1900s, when Hamana Khalili worked at the Kahuku Sugar Mill, where working conditions on the plantations weren’t that great.

His job as a pressor was to feed cane through the rollers to squeeze out its juice. Once day, Kalili’s right hand got caught in the rollers, and his middle, index and ring fingers were crushed. After the accident, the plantation owners gave him a new job as the security officer for the train that used to run between Sunset Beach and Kaaawa State Beach. Part of his job was to prevent kids from jumping on the train and taking joyrides as it slowly approached and departed Kahuku Station. If Kalili saw mischievous kids trying to get on the train, he would yell and wave his hand to stop them. Of course that looked a bit strange since he had only two fingers on his right hand. The kids adopted the gesture; it became their signal to indicate Kalili was not around or not looking, and the coast was clear of them to jump on the train.

In Hawaii, everyone from keiki (child or youngster) to kipuna (grandparent, ancestor, honored elder or keeper of ancestral knowledge uses the Shaka to express friendship, gratitude, goodwill, encouragement and unity. A little wave of the hand spreads a lot of aloha.

Remembering Dad on the 6th Anniversary of His Passing: "A Tapestry of Love"

“Life has to end, love doesn’t.”—Mitch Albom

I remember the day I got the call from my sister Josie who resides in New Jersey. It was December 18, 2017. My family and I were vacationing in Maui—as we do every year at this time—to let me know our dad Frank, had died peacefully in his sleep. Our beloved mother Maria had died just four years earlier. Dad was 100 years old when he passed. Except for the last six months prior to his death, his mind was sharp as a tack. Dad had a colorful career.

His first job was at the Iconic Clam Broth House in Hoboken, NJ. He then signed up for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) which was FDR’s work relief program. He also did two stints in the US Army, at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX, and Walter Reed Army Military Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland, thanks to his mentor and friend, Army Chaplain, Capt. William Walsh. He also served in the US Maritime Service in New London, CT., before returning to Civilian life. He married our mother Maria Micalizzi in 1947. They had me in 1950, followed by sister Josie, our late brother Michael, and brother Steve. Dad took a job at Janssen’s Dairy for 15 years, and subsequently worked at Maxwell House Coffee on the banks of the Hudson River. He was a Boy Scout Leader for 25 years; was installed as the Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, and was a member volunteer of the Elks Lodge No. 74, eventually becoming a life member.

In the twilight of his life, dad was honored by Dawn Zimmer, former Mayor of Hoboken, with a Proclamation for his many contributions to his community and his country. He was recognized publicly with a Senate Resolution sponsored by senator Brian Stack; and a laudatory resolution at the county level by the NJ Board of Chosen Freeholders, chaired by Anthony Romano, former Capt., of the Hoboken PD. Dad was also recognized by the Office of Veteran Affairs, and Catherine Macchi of the County Council on Aging who stated dad’s contributions were a “Legacy of Love.” Dad’s entire life was about love of nature and discovering the joy of giving to others.

Our Father Frank Augustine: A Tapestry of Love

"Beyond the 'Empty Chair' you left behind

A tapestry woven with love’s embrace.

Each thread a living memory, strong and true.

In the fabric of our hearts, your presence resides,

The laughter, the tears, the shared moments in time.

In each stitch, a love that abides.

Though you may not be physically here,

Your spirit fills the empty space,

And touch the threads of our bond,

I feel your love, a warm embrace.

The chair may stand vacant to be sure,

But your essence is never far,

For in this tapestry of our connection,

You live on, like a shining star.

We love you dad

Saying Goodbye to Beautiful Selina: Forever Loved & Forever Cherished

As we approached the Church of St. Mary, and again the Holy Cross cemetery in North Arlington where my goddaughter and niece Selina was laid to rest, we heard the mournful, reverent, and dignified sound of a solo bagpiper. It symbolizes the piper leading the departed to the Hereafter, yet stopping short of the Gate through which the piper cannot pass.

It’s been said that the loss of someone you love is immeasurable but so is the love left behind. Selina was a graduate of Centenary College receiving a bachelor's and master's degree’s in counseling psychology. She was a counselor for Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack. According to her father and my brother-in-law Joseph McAllister, Selina’s real passion was horses. Selina owned many horses throughout the years. She showed horses professionally in both New Jersey and Idaho for 15 years. She also received many ribbons in competitive events. Selena is survived by her parents, Joseph, my sister Josephine Augustine McAllister, her loving daughter Zaila, and her brothers Joseph Jr., and Jake.

The most difficult realities that we—as a family—had to reconcile was Selina's tragic shortened lifespan. She was only 40 years old when she died, and the fact that it occurred on her beloved daughter Zaila’s 13th birthday, was too much to bear. The first thing that people notice about Selina (a variant of Selene meaning goddess) were her beautiful, radiant blue eyes and how her face lit up the room when she smiled. She had a huge capacity for kindness and empathy for others. She was feisty and outspoken at times, had a good sense of humor, and would do anything for anyone.

When a loved one dies it makes sense to turn to rituals to help us put our lives back together again. Grief is chaotic and disorienting. It rips our world apart. In fact, the word “bereaved" comes from the root word “reave,” which means to be robbed by force. The elements of a "healing funeral" are rituals that work together to restore order to our lives after everything is torn apart by the chaos and pain created by the death of someone who was much beloved.

What I love about funerals, is that they can heal a family torn apart by squabbles or misunderstandings. Bearing witness to the finite nature of life can spur loved ones to put life into perspective and let go of old grievances and simply share in their mutual grief. I was given the honor by Joe and Josie to deliver the eulogy at the Calhoun-Mania Funeral Home on their behalf. Then, there was attending the memorial mass at the beautiful Church of St. Mary in Rutherford, NJ, while the priest did the liturgy and readings, and administered the Holy Communion wafer.

During my flight home from Newark Airport to San Francisco, I was reminded of all that took place during the last few days. As I was waiting for the Uber driver to take me home, I was feeling melancholy, until I received a response from my Facebook post from Selina’s friend Gambel who shares with her husband Kevin Mccarthy that boosted my spirits: “Our hearts are broken too,” she said. “Selina loved and trusted her Uncle Dennis so much…this I know for sure,” she said. "She spoke of you often and always with love and respect. The same way she loved your brother Michael who passed and adored your brother Steve. My condolences to all.” Gambel added that her daughters have been Zaila’s best friends since they were 2 years old, and that she can assure me that she will do her very best to enhance Zaila’s life while keeping her mother’s love for her alive. Gambel was the sister of TJ Tarantino, Selina’s dear friend who passed away 1.5 years ago.

Postscript: The repast luncheon was hosted by the McAllisters at Mr Bruno and a private family dinner was hosted at PF Chang’s by my nephew Jake McAllister