Now, everyone can visit the famous World War II airplane, Memphis Belle, in her new home in the National Museum of the United States Air Force, located in Dayton, Ohio. This remarkable airplane and other exhibits offer dramatic insight into the people, men, and women who made military aviation history from all perspectives before, during, and after the US Air Force was formed.

I live in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where much of the atomic bomb was crafted. Sometimes I stop and think about how a group of very talented people came together to make this happen. Using this very airplane changed the world, and it started 2 miles from my house. That’s a lot more exciting than watching the movie.

Anyone who reads my posts knows how much I love reading. I’m not a Bible scholar by any measure, but I really enjoy Wednesdays when I meet up with a group of men from our church to discuss various secular writings. Today, we discussed the concept of “Agape”. As our conversation progressed, I took a moment to read different versions of the word and gained new insights.

I learned that Agape is about giving generously without expecting anything back. This special kind of love is often associated with spiritual or divine love, emphasizing the idea of loving others selflessly, just as we are loved by a higher power.

All of us in the group are senior citizens, including me. We often enjoy focusing on meaningful things that matter most. By the end of our discussion, we all warmly embraced the idea of giving without expecting anything in return. It’s truly an excellent and inspiring motivator.

Like many older adults, the thought of participating in youth activities, especially summer learning camps, didn’t seem necessary to me. I was so wrong. This year marks my fifth season with the group in rural Tennessee, and today is the beginning of our 2025 camp.

The program has been in operation for several years, initially focusing on reading. This year, the learning program added STEM activities and sessions designed to include each camp participant in the broader experience. During each of the prior sessions, I learned more from the youngsters than I ever imagined; they have limited access to the things that other youth groups may offer. Even with this in mind, their enthusiasm is authentic and contagious.

One of the early learning sessions included photography. Our church supplied small digital cameras for the youngsters; the task was to take photos of whatever they wanted, learning skills. To no one’s surprise, they took pictures of flowers, a garden, different objects set up for them, and each other. This activity was spectacularly successful.

We need to encourage and support these youngsters as much as possible. From my experience, they respond to programs that bring them in touch with adults outside their circle, those interested in them, and those who willingly share the knowledge and kindness they value. What I learned from each youngster is crucial to my sense of values; I’d never be able to thank each child enough. I didn’t expect to be at a learning camp in Appalachia; however, I’m looking forward to seeing them again. I wish everyone could join me.

Many years ago, I purchased this phenomenal “laptop.” It is a 17″ Dell Studio model, weighing around 12 pounds. Hardly laptop material; however, it’s pink, which is (and was) a rare color.

This computer was beautiful; the screen resolution and the keyboard were excellent. It was before it’s time, for sure.

Over the years, I tried everything to extend the life of this companion. At this point, it’s helpless to continue propping it up for another minute. So, later this afternoon, I’m heading to her resting place, and it’s gone forever.

We sure had a fantastic run.

 In 1986, USAir, based in Washington, DC, was a co-sponsor of an event celebrating the premiere showing of the movie Top Gun. It was a spectacular event, with the Navy’s Blue Angels flight team arriving at National Airport, parking their aircraft near a USAir hangar being used as part of the event and reception.

For this colossal event, USAir had invited dozens of high-ranking Navy leadership, politicians by the score, and me. My friend, who was heading up public relations for USAir, asked me, and I gladly accepted. It was fantastic; this was indeed a celebration for US Navy Aviation. 

Since his follow-up movie, “Top Gun: Maverick,” was a smash hit, and he is playing a US Navy aviator with the rank of Captain, I suppose in his next “Top Gun” movie, he will finally be promoted again. We are all waiting to see Admiral Maverick in action. Carry On, Tom.

Since I’ve lately been on a rip thinking (and writing) about some of my favorite hotels worldwide, I must include one of my all-time super-star hotels, the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Honolulu.

While I have stayed at many hotels in Waikiki, there’s only one Royal Hawaiian. Over the many years I’ve visited, the grounds around the hotel have changed, but the hotel remains the most marvelous, comfortable property in Honolulu. There’s nothing else like it.

On every visit, as soon as I check in, I head to the Mai Tai Bar for one of their world-class drinks, yes – their Mai Tai cocktail. It may not have been invented here; however, once you have one, it’s the Gold standard for any others that follow.

Their Mai Tai bar is ground zero for the famed Hawaiian Spirit. In minutes I’m lost in the colors and spirit of the hotel. The beach is steps away; The Surf Room is next to the bar, and their casual lunch menu offers many of my favorites, including their famous Surf Salad.

I’m not a big fan of the Luau experience. However, their Royal Hawaiian Luau takes everyone back to a time when a luau was a real cultural experience. It’s held on the Royal Ocean Lawn, so everyone has a terrific view of the beach and Diamond Head.

Guest rooms are incredible, especially the Queen Kapiolani suite, and while I enjoy the rooms in the tower, I always try to get a room in the “old” building. No matter where you stay, you will have experienced the most beautiful part of Hawaii. When you leave the Royal Hawaiian, you will be a lifelong fan.

Mahalo, my friends.