"Dry Your Eyes" is one of Neil Diamond's most majestic and moving songs. It was written about a mentor who inspired him during his early days as a songwriter, though, as far as I know, the identity of that individual has yet to be revealed. Just last week the name of one of my mentors was revealed to me, in a tragic email announcing the recent death of a fellow by the name of Steven L Victor of Cocoa Beach, Florida. We all knew him as "Tommy Turtle", a pseudonym reflecting his love for nature and the gentle sea creatures who shared the beach front area where he lived. I was privileged to correspond with Tommy over the last couple of years. His insights into politics, sociology, and songwriting are something I will always cherish. Several months ago Tommy wrote his farewell to AmIRight. He told me that he had to devote his time to carrying for "someone close to him" who was facing a serious illness. Little did I know he was referring to himself. Tommy valued his privacy, and I suppose it was in keeping with his character that he sought no sympathy for himself. To the best of my knowledge, there is no obituary in any local newspaper. For those of us who enjoy the art of parody writing, Steve, Tommy, will live on in the works that he posted and the comments he left for our writings. Adios, Tortuga.

I know you were not a believer. But, just in case you now know otherwise, Tommy, you'll always be more than just a footnote at AIR. Patrick