I had the opportunity to attend a local music festival. They didn’t call it that, they called it a “Block Party”, but either way it was 3-days of live music. I do concerts but have never done a multi-day event before. The crowds were eclectic, colorful and engaged. I asked my son, who had provided my ticket and was my co-pilot, what he thought the average age was. We were standing in line for something or other at the time so he scanned the audience and offered “My age probably.” He is 37. I agreed. The next day, standing in another line again, he said “21”. As I looked at him he said “Average age-21 I bet”. I hadn’t paid much attention but did notice more young people. I also noticed more of my age group, or closer to it. I’m 68 and never felt out of place so I guess I had not paid much attention. I commented to my son that it would be interesting to see our very conservative state legislature walk through this crowd. Sometimes I think they don’t want to acknowledge much less admit that this culture exists in Salt Lake City. By that I mean anyone with wild and colorful outfits, including hair, with copious tattoos that may exhibit any gender differentiation-and shockingly may drink an alcoholic beverage! I understand attendance was expected to hit 30K which I think might be a little low. Everyone I came in contact with was decent and excited to be there. My only issue became painfully evident after several hours, and that was standing. I knew the hours for this were 12-10 pm. and also knew the likelihood I would-could last that long were doubtful, but it started to bother me sooner than I expected. As long as I could shift weight or move around a little I was so-so but as the crowds thickened and it became more challenging to move beyond bumping into someones else’s shoulders, I struggled. I was frustrated because I did enjoy the music, crowds and all, and hoped to last longer than I did. My restless leg syndrome finally got the better of me and I only lasted 2-days. My takeaway was live music is alive and well as are the crowds, but I need the venue that I can have a chair.

My friend and neighbor as well as our HOA board president announced he was moving and submitted his resignation to be effective immediately. His wife was offered a tremendous opportunity back in their home state of Colorado and accepted. They are currently on a dream trip to Greece and then off to Denver. I am the board secretary and have been his side-kick of sorts for the last year. My wife Lisa, having been on the board over 4-years, needed a break so she resigned and I took over her spot. He did an extraordinary job over that same period. He almost single handedly oversaw the installation of a new elevator to replace our one unit that was original to our building built in 1960. He also oversaw a massive landscape project that was funded by a donation from a resident (who passed away recently before the actual completion) who had profited substantially from an investment tip offered by him. He has also been in front of prosecuting our former building manager that stole through various means, tens of thousandths of dollars from our HOA. The only reason for bringing this up is now I’m that guy. We have a strong board but understand I am the most logical candidate i.e see “Side-kick” earlier… I love this building and want to perpetuate the current momentum but am conflicted in assuming the responsibility. I’m not sure if any of the seven readers I have out there are on an HOA board or have ever been on one, if so you probably can commiserate.

Jimmy Buffett. As I write this Tina Turner just passed away and Jimmy just cancelled shows to attend to a medical condition. Tina was a force of nature and an inspiration to generations of women for many important reasons. Jimmy represents Key West. I listen to his Sirius channel occasionally when I need a mindless escape. I have attempted unsuccessfully living in southern Florida 3-times so Jimmy represents the guy that did it. Sun, sand, a beach and palm trees…and an appropriate tropical drink. Sounds pretty good to me.