A block pioneer.
I was born and raised in Baltimore. While in the military, I met guys from all over the country who couldn't believe that I had never been to the 'Block'. So, after I finished my hitch, I made it a point to visit the 'Block' about 2 weeks after returning home. The 2 O'Clock Club was my first stop.
Blaze Starr put on a great act with a lot of humor in it. Within a few months of my being home, there was a story in the paper that she had closed her club to the public for a night, and opened it up to a free night of fun for patients at the VA hospital. She had all her girls there, and wouldn't let any of the vets spend a dime. Blaze did this many times before finally leaving the 'Block'.
When she left she was quoted in the paper at the time that she didn't like the out-of-town elements who were buying properties on the 'Block', and the effect they were having there.
I still have my copy of her book, "BLAZE STARR - My Life as Told to Huey Perry", which she personally autographed for me.
She always had a good heart. May she rest in peace with God's blessing.