I was going to take a cab from the hotel to the Shoreline Amphitheater for the Oct. 21 Jimmy Buffett show, but a couple I’d never met before offered another option: “Why don’t you come with us in our motor home?”

After we arrived, an awning came out, tiki torches were ignited and the shot-ski — a snow ski with five shot glasses attached — filled with drinks. The hosts Rich and Bonnie wore “Buffett for President” T-shirts and handed out bumper stickers. This was my kind of political party!

That’s the way it is with the Parrotheads at a Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band concert. It was the first time I’ve seen Buffett since a show about 25 years ago at one of the casinos. He’s just as good as, if not better than, I remembered.

Looking trim and in great condition Jimmy appeared in a white T-shirt, cutoffs and no shoes during the three-hour performance in Mountain View. The Parrotheads were in there usual festive mood as Buffett and his talented band performed old-time favorites. The crowd sang along and knew every word.

He also played songs by Bob Dylan, the Grateful Dead and James Taylor. A Buffett concert is more like a large party, with beach balls flying around and everyone sharing food, drink and whatever.

The Parrothead troupes range from young children to seniors, all enjoying the love of Jimmy’s music and lifestyle. I would like to extend a special thanks to Rich and Bonnie and the other Salt Lake City Parrotheads for their generous hospitality. Thank God the tiki bar is open!

— John Simon is an advertising representative for the Tahoe Daily Tribune