Jaws is my favorite movie.  Lessons taught from Jaws are frequently applicable to today’s world. For instance, let’s consider the decision-making of the Mayor of Amity Island himself: Mr. Larry Vaughn.

What might prompt me to think of our favorite sleazy mayor? In answering that question I could easily start higher up the political food chain. However, what really prompted me to come off the bench (sorry about the lack of posts of late – life has been hectic) was something that happened last week. That being Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and his decision to re-open Florida’s beaches. Let’s go to the Governor himself, who explained his justification by stating:

“I’m only trying to say that Amity is a summer town. We need summer dollars. Now, if the people can’t swim here, they’ll be glad to swim at the beaches of Cape Cod, the Hamptons, Long Island…I’m pleased and happy to repeat the news that we have in fact caught and killed a large predator that supposedly injured some bathers. But as you can see, it’s a beautiful day, the beaches are opened, and people are having a wonderful time.”

Whoops, wait a minute!

DeSantis was actually quoted as stating it was important for people to have outlets for getting exercise, sunshine and fresh air. “Do it in a good way. Do it in a safe way,” DeSantis said.

Chief Brody stated in response, “That doesn’t mean we have to serve them up as smörgåsbord!”

Whoops! There I go again.

Of course, this all leaves us with the real question on everyone’s mind: will the Florida Governor’s kids be on those beaches?