Wednesday, October 12, 2005

Small Town Ghosts

'Tis the month for Ghost Walks and ghostly reading, especially true stories from small historical towns. It seems that more and more people are tuned in to folks who have tuned out. Passed on. Actually I hear more people saying 'passed on' rather than saying 'died' these days. Perhaps because more people are developing their extra-sensory perception, becoming aware of life after life.

Many old houses gain character by former owners refusing to leave the premises. They loved it there, why should they leave? Some were having such a good time, they don't wanna go. So they stay behind for awhile, entertaining and educating us with their presence, sometimes with a few antics.

To hear stories of true hauntings in Historical Bordentown City, NJ, the Downtown Bordentown Association holds an annual Bordentown City Ghost Walk the last Sunday in October. This year on the 30th starting at 7 pm, prior to the Ghost Walk a talk and book signing of "The Ghosts of Bordentown" will take place at 'Strangelove's, 150 Farnsworth Ave. Bordentown (of course). For information on the tour, call 609-298-3334.

Synchronicity

Synchronicity

Who believes in synchronicity? Last year while researching my recent book, "Bordentown Revisited" for Arcadia Publishing, I was sitting at the reader in the Bordentown library scanning old Register-News files. My eyes were intent on the screen, but my ears picked up the murmur of the room. Suddenly I perked up when I heard "Oh my gosh! You have to meet Arlene. She's right here researching your home!"

Naturally I turned around. The librarian introduced me to the gentleman on whose ancestral home background I was reading. He came to the library seeking information on the former Field estate. He already was in possession of the complete genealogical line dating back to 1069. I absolutely glowed with excitement. He generously shared the written content which was invaluable to the book. Synchronicity? I believe it.

Sunday, October 09, 2005

More on Used Books

More On Used Books

Recently an article was published in a writers’ magazine by an author complaining about people buying used books. “It doesn’t do the author any good,” he whines. “If people cannot afford new hard cover books, they should wait a year later for the paperback books to hit the stands.” I wonder what he suggests should be done to the exquisite libraries of the deceased. Trash them? After all, once they pass from the present owner, they become used books.

Even as a published writer, I disagree. I was first a reader. I’m outraged that this man looks upon the writing profession totally as a dollar sign. Yes, it’s wonderful that some people earn a good living by writing, books or otherwise. But used books fill a vacancy that allows lesser income readers and collectors to have a fine-looking library that one cannot always get from mass market paperbacks.

Furthermore, the challenge of finding a gem in the used bookshop is sometimes half the fun. It’s reminiscent of the Treasure Hunt once popular at parties. Enjoy.