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Posted by Paul Bithorn on 14:10:56 03/16/12
In Reply to: The Gator Hook bar on Loop Rd. -- A Bygone Era posted by Vincent Lucas
Thanks for informing us of this excellent article about one of the most scenic and historic roads in the great State of Florida.
I first encountered the Pinecrest Area of Loop Road in 1965, while doing a 20-mile walking hike for my Boy Scout Hiking Merit Badge. It was a vibrant area at the time, where the local folk were cleaning frogs and dumping the guts in a nearby canal where the gators fought for the entrails. The gas pumps were still operating at that time and I remember buying a soda pop at the little store there.
As for Lucky Cole, I went to Miami Springs High School with his sister Jill. Lucky, and his brother, Jackie, were feared by us younguns' do to their massive size and penchant for being in the middle of a few skirmishes.
One night in the early 1970's, I was driving up to Jerry's Liquors in Virginia Gardens in my 1961 Valiant - 3 on the floor with a slant six - when Lucky walked in front of me in the parking lot. I made the mistake of honking my horn at him and immediately got the "stare". He tapped on my window and asked me if I was honking at him and I politely responded no. I promptly went home and changed my underwear. I enjoy stopping by to see him and his lovely bride, whenever I am on the Loop. He enjoys company - so stop by and see him.
As for the legendary, Erwin Rouse, I saw him play "Orange Blossom Special" on his fiddle in 1974 at Hialeah Municipal Auditorium on Palm Avenue with a girl I was dating, who loved Bluegrass music.
He talked about his life living with the Miccosukees and drinking firewater (moonshine). He wore a colorful Indian Jacket and had the audience spellbound with his colorful stories and fiddle playing. I have been blessed to also see Vassar Clements and Charlie Daniels play this musical classic as well.
Before I forget - I had a Downy Woodpecker on my Green Buttonwood in my front yard this morning. Don't see them very often in the neighborhood.
Life is good...................living history as it's being made in beautiful South Florida!
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