My father was a natural musician who picked up instruments easily, playing mostly bebop jazz on the sax and clarinet. During the Korean War, he played in the Navy band and because he was also a fast … more

If you recently had to drive in the Monticello area, it was almost impossible to avoid road construction. It began a few weeks ago when dump trucks, excavators and assorted vehicles began assembling … more

Our little white Maltese was thrilled when we got home after a full day out. Bitsy jumped up to greet us with a wiggle of her tail, a drenching face-licking and several hardy welcoming back barks. … more

I’m not sure about you, but packing food for lunches at work is so hard. I try to pack things that do not weigh me down throughout the day.  My go-to is a wrap, packed with turkey, … more

A few weeks ago while flipping through channels on TV, I stumbled upon a report on RFD TV, about farmland in the United States being bought up by China. Remember back on September 22, 1985, the first … more

The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell (Knopf). This is, of course, the author of Hamnet, the literary historical novel of a couple of years ago—which this column somehow managed to … more

What is needed in order to own a condo? Every investment involves much paperwork, and you must be extremely careful to understand the many documents needed in condo ownership; · The … more

From my grandmother’s diary when she was sixteen and working in the family bakery. All first names mentioned are those of her siblings except for her schoolmate, Clara. Oct 1st Rain … more