By Sam Burnham
@C_SamBurnham

I was part of an interesting exchange on Twitter Tuesday night. We were discussing one very unique Southern phenomenon. We were discussing how The South is viewed as, and rightfully so, a conservative region. But we do have a particular genre of people that sort of stick out. I hesitate to call it an archetype or anything like that as they don't really shares common thread...except for the title that identifies them. The Eccentrics.

By Sam Burnham
@C_SamBurnham

I have to admit that I am fascinated by the British Royl Family. I'm not a "Royal watcher" in the sense off-roading People Magazine to find out what style dress Pipa Middleton wore to the new prince'sbirthday party. I'm a fan because I'ma Conservative and a Traditionalist of sorts and Ienjoy the tradition, the ceremony, the history, and the symbolism that is involved in the institution.

Last night, when it was announced that the Queen's staff was called to an emergency meeting at 3 am local time, I was a bit alarmed. I had already had a rough night and was really hoping for some good news at that point. I sat up scrolling Twitter in search of an answer and to commiserate with fellow Conservatives. I realized that nothing was going to be announced before 8 am local time and decided to doze off with a disappointed resignation toward the rumors that the Duke had died. I awoke this morning to the news that the Duke was not dead, and was not even particularly sick. The meeting was to announce that The Duke was announcing that he was retiring from public life beginning this fall.

The Duke of Edinburgh was announcing his retirement at 3am after having officially opened the Warner Stand at Lord's Cricket Grounds? Over my lifetime I have come to know a lot about adventurous and mischievous men once they have reached a certain age. The Duke is well past that age and I'm telling you, there is more to the story. .