She was quite sophisticated, I wanted to impress her but I thought I needed help I know it’s verboten to say nowadays but there was a time when smoking (cigarettes) was considered — dare I say “sexy?” Smoking was thought to enhance life instead of helping to put an end…

The only problem, it has another man’s name on it. — “What’s that?” you ask when visiting the Kremlin Library in Moscow. “I didn’t know Vladimir Putin played wide receiver for the New England Patriots, catching those perfect passes thrown his way by the great Tom Brady,” you say. “He helped the Patriots beat the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX…

Move over Pickleball, this sport has had a popular growth spirit that rivals yours. — It may be the most deceptive sport that’s ever been created. It looks so damn easy and fun. No brutal human collisions, a nice soft round ball that can bounce off your body without inflicting pain and suffering. And unlike pickleball, you can play with five of your closest friends. …

Most of my male friends at the gym held their deeper philosophical discussions in the men’s locker room. I’m all in for continuing education. No, not the kind where you get letters added to the back of your name. They’re wonderful to have and certainly the country needs professionals. …

Why do people make some things so damn difficult? — I recently had an appointment with my rheumatologist . Not only is he a great doctor but also a great guy. I’ve been seeing him for years. After our consultation I wended my way through what seemed like a mouse maze of hallways and after some wrong turns, his staff…

Is it morally wrong to root for the fantasy players on your squad if they’re playing against your favorite NFL team? — Come on you fantasy football players, confess. Aren’t there times when you secretly want a running back on your fantasy team to score that extra touchdown that polishes off the home team? More often than not, you’re watching the game with a room full of people who are fanatically cheering…

The sale may be made but the customer is left disappointed and bitter Social media is crackling with the following warning: Beware, there’s a new method of filling tables in large city restaurants throughout the world unscrupulous restaurant owners are adopting. This scam leaves the victim not only with a…

Crow’s Feet Prompt # 46: Traditions — Jim was a neighbor living far away from the North Pole. He was an all-right guy, but I didn’t see much of him. He was a retired grandfather who lived alone. He wasn’t one to socialize with the younger crowd in the neighborhood. I was in my late 30s with…

Everyone went silent when she spoke. We’ve been friends for quite a while. Same gang, getting together for dinner every other month. The dinners are hosted on a rotating schedule. This Saturday it was our turn. My wife (at the time) was an inveterate party host and participant. Her enthusiasm…