For the past 19 years, I’ve started most mornings by checking APOD (Astronomy Picture of the Day) to behold the wonders unfolding across the universe, and EPOD (Earth Science Picture of the Day) to witness the dynamic forces reshaping our planet. This daily ritual grounded me in the awe of creation. Sadly, EPOD published its final image and narrative on my birthday—September 30, 2025—marking the end of a remarkable chapter in science communication. EPOD, a service of the Univ

My first job after graduation from USF was with Smiths Industries in Largo, Florida. Smiths made aircraft instruments for both civil and military aviation. One of their main contracts was with the Marine Corps to supply the heads-up display used in the AV 8a Harrier vertical takeoff and landing jet. My job title was Engineering Administrator. I took care of all the routine things that the engineering manager didn't want to deal with.          At the time, Smiths was rapidly e

This is for all you older folks out there whose hearing aids no longer cut it—especially in noisy social settings where understanding what someone is saying requires an exhausting level of effort. Here’s a typical conversation in a restaurant: Server:  “Would you like lemon with your water?" Me:  “Yes, I’m ready to order." Wife:  “He didn’t hear you. Yes, he’ll have lemon." Me:  “What’s this about lemons?" Son:  “Dad, turn your hearing aid up!” Eventually, I’d had enough of t

Gaia, the Greek goddess of the Earth, has fascinated philosophers and artists for centuries. She represents Mother Earth, fertility, and the raw forces of nature. This reflection traces her mythological origins to her evolving relevance in today’s environmental crisis. Mythological Origins of Gaia In ancient Greek cosmology, the universe began with Chaos — a vast emptiness. Out of that void came Gaia, Earth’s solid foundation and primal mother. She gave birth to the sky, the

The summer before I joined the Coast Guard, I worked at a gas station in Salisbury, MA. My boss was Dan Wolford. Dan had a blue, '53...

The summer before I stared college, I picked up a second job on weekends at Ann’s Diner in Salisbury, MA. I’d seen Ann’s ad in the local...