Category: Columns

Working Waterfront

Nothing more expensive than a free boat

Last summer I finally succumbed to sailboat ownership after decades of heroic resistance. I’ve sailed my whole life, but always on boats owned by other people, which is the best kind of boat. I had just returned to the island after months hiking the Appalachian Trail in the claustrophobically forested… SEE MORE

Working Waterfront

Finding comfort in fictional competence

When the world’s a mess, as it often feels these days, I turn to “competency porn.” This brand of fiction depicts hyper-talented people solving difficult problems, and of course, it could describe many classic works. Odysseus makes it home. Poirot finds the killer. Furiosa frees the Citadel. But I only… SEE MORE

Working Waterfront

Creating a bigger table

I’ve been thinking about tables lately. My father passed away in February after living his 96 years fully and generously. Creating a big table was his superpower. Everyone was welcome, and his table seemed to grow larger as he grew older. At 90, he reluctantly agreed to let us host what he insisted… SEE MORE

Working Waterfront

A threat to NOAA’s funding for states

The White House recently released its 2027 budget proposal, a document that clearly signals the president’s priorities, though it could face substantial changes as it makes its way through appropriations subcommittees in Congress this spring and summer. While the latest proposal would bolster some maritime programs, it would, unfortunately, eliminate funding for important programs that… SEE MORE
SaltWater Cure

Working Waterfront

Seeking peepers on a spring evening

It’s the first mild night of early April, and the peepers are screaming. Their shrill chorus is most noticeable from the car, where the Doppler effect magnifies their treble mating call. But it permeates the air when I walk into the house at dusk, or let the dog out later… SEE MORE

Working Waterfront

Forever friendships

I like to imagine North Haven as a hub at the center of the world. A glowing dot on a map, it sends out pulses of energy, drawing people to it. Most answer the call, at one time or another. Maybe just a day sail through the Thorofare, or a… SEE MORE
Journal of an Island Kitchen

Working Waterfront

My best kitchen utensils

Periodically, some august publication sets forth a prescription for The Best Kitchen Utensils. Sometimes I even agree with them, though their emphasis is usually on new single gadgets while my list contains splendid vintage items and multitaskers. Here is my current list. Good knives: a large chef’s knife, two fine… SEE MORE

Working Waterfront

Scallops and me

I have a short and complicated history with scallops. Growing up in Maryland, my fondness for seafood mostly extended to the basics: canned tuna; flaky white fish; some crab, shrimp, and shellfish; occasional lobster and salmon. I don’t remember starting to eat scallops until a decade ago, and they quickly… SEE MORE