Merchant marines died at a rate of 1 in 26. The highest rate of casualties in any branch of the military. Yet it wasn’t until 1988 the men who served were recognized as veterans of World War II.
All in Holidays
A Toast: To Mr. Jefferson
I hesitate to point this out, but without Thomas Jefferson there would be no Charlottesville. As we know it.
Memorial Day Reminders
Whatever the exact number of men and women who perished protecting the United States, it’s staggering.
Our Papa Puzzle
The only thing we know for sure about my grandfather is where he is. His remains are in a cemetery in South River, N.J.
Caroling For Cash
I thought about that family all through the movie. As soon as it was over, I rushed out, looking for them, but they had vanished.
Return Address Rage
"I'm a writer," I hissed. "There are lots of things I know nothing about, but I do understand apostrophes and this ball doesn't get one."
Baby, It’s Stupid Out There
It’s flirtatious, it’s romantic, it’s a doggone love song.
In Pursuit Of The Perfect Tree
There’s something about an honest, fresh tree - one not soaked in chemicals or crawling with bugs - that just feels right.
Family, Friends and Football
A weekend so splendid that it couldn’t even be spoiled by Ole Miss’ crushing loss to Mississippi State Thanksgiving night.
Holidays Are Coming. Time For Fillers.
Politics aside, I hate these formulaic holiday articles.
Don’t Let Spoilsports Rain On Your 4th Of July Parade
A couple of eggheads - including one from Harvard - want you to think twice before flying your flag or taking your kids to a parade.
Happy New Year From An Outer Banks McMansion
If it hadn’t been for a marathon Monopoly game lasting more than five hours on New Year’s Eve afternoon, I’d have a splendid piece of writing here.
Merry Christmas
Lemme guess. You’re trying to escape family overload.
It’s Christmas. We’ll Watch Anything
I take consolation in knowing that one day Netflix will go the way of Blockbuster Video strip-mall stores, but for now it’s all we’ve got.
Ditch The Mall, Head To A Truck Stop
It was late November and I was headed south to a college football game in Mississippi. I stopped, as usual, at the Kenly 95 in North Carolina. It’s the Nordstrom of truck stops. A vast emporium featuring fried food, ball-cap boutiques and clean bathrooms.