Billy's Journal

Our 55th year at Barnacle Billy's (original) ended last night. We had no deck; it was a little too cool for most patrons. However, there were some brave souls who said it wasn't bad in the sun. Summers end way too quickly. And good people leave too soon. And the way time works for me, the 56th year will be here before you know it. But last night was fun. And we were short staffed. So I bussed many tables. That's how I started working at Barnacle Billy's at 10 years old. And that's how I seem to end every season. It almost seems appropriate.

Former President George H. W. Bush was only here two times last, 2016, season. I felt lucky (and honored) that he was here that often. The ocean wasn't as calm this summer as many previous summers. He always comes by boat. Although compromised health wise, he was still the wonderful man I have come to know and love. Barbara, our former First Lady, wasn't there either time. So we never did see Barbara. But we did see former President George W's daughter, Barbara. George W. was not here last summer and neither was Jeb, I'm sorry to say. But siblings Doro, Marvin and Neil were. I enjoyed their company all.

Barnacle Billy's, Etc. will be open until 9:00 PM on Sunday, October 30, 2016. Then she, my mistress, too will close until Thursday, May 4, 2017. I will not be there on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Wednesday I will be at a Recreational Advisory Panel (Federal fishery meeting) meeting in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The two other days I will be hosting offshore fishing trips for my angling patrons on the Bunny Clark. I will happily be at "Etc" for the last three days. I am not looking forward to the end of the season!