Year: 2019

My Fordham Conversation: Part 1
Recently, Robin Shannon invited me to join her on Fordham Conversations, a weekly program on WFUV (90.7 FM). We chatted about Jersey City, artists, regional history, gentrification, and my book, Left Bank of the Hudson.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas! This year, I have found the Christmas season especially magical. Maybe it’s because I shared a few days with an old friend. Maybe it’s because I’ve been listening to Christmas music non-stop. Maybe it’s because my wife and I watched Savannah bedecking itself for the holiday on our recent trip. Enjoy the day…
Need More Star Wars?
This past October, I had the privilege of moderating a whip-smart panel exploring the spiritual and religious influences and underpinnings of the Star Wars universe. We had a great time talking about favorite characters and stories and the larger questions examined in the saga. (I can’t believe this is my job!) Enjoy the conversation. Don’t…
A Few Days in Savannah
Knowing our shared passion for “old things,” trusted friends long have suggested that my wife and I visit Savannah, Georgia. During this past Thanksgiving weekend, we finally followed their advice. We were not disappointed. Instead of flying, we traveled to the Hostess City of the South on the Amtrak Silver Meteor line. The train ride…
All Aboard: Newark to Savannah
Increasingly distressed by air travel, wanting to make environmentally-mindful choices, and hoping to share a new adventure, my wife and I traveled from our home in Jersey City, New Jersey to historic Savannah, Georgia round trip on the Amtrak Silver Meteor line during this past Thanksgiving weekend.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving! Wishing you a wonderful day and a hearty meal with family and friends. This year, forgo the mad consumption of Black Friday. Instead of heading to the mall or shopping online, watch a favorite film, read a book, or simply share another day with your loved ones. Indulge in leftovers, too. All experiences…
Crossing the Empire State
Last week, a minor emergency prompted a last-minute change to an already postponed family visit to Western New York State. Not wanting to call off my long-awaited and now necessary trip, I purchased a round-trip ticket from New York to Rochester on Amtrak’s Empire Service line.

Library, Tradition, & Home
This month marks my second year as a resident at the Wertheim Study in the New York Public Library. This fellowship provides me with a desk in a private room designated for researchers and full access to the collections of a world-class research library. Quite a privilege.
Happy Halloween!
Happy Halloween! After handing out candy to trick-or-treaters this evening, crack open a collection of ghost stories or watch a treasured horror film. Remember the spirit of the holiday needs not depart at the stroke of midnight. As long as you feel autumn in the air, the fun and mystery of Halloween linger. Enjoy.