The anchor heaves, the ship swings free, The sails swell full. To sea, to sea!

--"Sailor's Song "

Max Rizley, Jr. was a Texas journalist who worked as a reporter for the Galveston Daily News covering maritime and aerospace features from1978 to1988. Later he edited The Islander Magazine in Galveston, covered free-lance assignments for a variety of clients, and was a weekly columnist for the Texas City Sun from 1989 until his death.

During the last year of his life, Maxie co-authored a book (with Gini Fendler-Brown) called Galveston: Lore, Legend and Downright Lies, published by Eakin Press.

In spite of his numerous professional accomplishments, Rizley was most noted for the unfailing sense of humor and the spirit of endurance with which he approached life and living. He was a man whose mammoth character overwhelmed his diminuative physique. His writing reflects his strength of conviction and an astute sense of observation -- tempered by his light-hearted approach to the telling of a tale.

In addition to a life-long commitment to writing, Maxie was obsessed by a passion for the sea. This love is apparent as a recurring theme in his writing, as well as in his long-time maritime involvement. He volunteered and served for many years as a crew member of the tall-ship Elissa, a restored 1877 sailing ship that is designated a National Historic Landmark.

As a member of the ship's band, he performed at nautical festivals and historical events. His Internet website, TopGallant, showcases much of his most recent work and reflects his numerous and varied interests. In spite of the adversity of declining health -- a nemesis for most of his life -- Max continued to write prolifically.

Rizley was a member of numerous professional associations, such as The National Maritime Historical Association, The Net Wits Internet Humor Columnists, and the National Society of Newspaper Columnists, which recognized his writing excellence with an award for his submission to its annual writing contest.

His newspaper colleagues, as well as his internet humor-writing associates, have elected to honor his memory by keeping his website alive and available on the Internet. Maxie is fondly remembered by associates as a seasoned pro who was always willing to take time to share his vast knowledge and experience with young writers and to offer sage advice to those struggling to develop a career.

Maxie left us with a large collection of stories, articles, and columns, which narrate his life and reflect his clever way with words far more efficiently than any tribute ever will. Since the greatest wish of any author is that his words be read and have a continuing influence, you are cordially invited to pour a cup of coffee, read a story or two, and enjoy the enduring humor of Max Rizley, Jr.

-- Sheila Moss