I first met Ruth in 2005 while working on my book, Rochester’s South Wedge, and we became good friends. Reading Shirley’s “About the Authors” descriptions, showed me how little I knew about Ruth at the time. Very humbling. Another history friend from those days is Emerson Klees, whose history books peaked my interest in area history and who died recently. Re-reading Runnin’ Crazy was like looking back into times that seem to be fading faster than ever, both for the Genesee River, but also of my own writing career. Not sure how I feel about all of that. As we head into Thanksgiving week, I suppose the best answer is thankful. Thankful for the good times and great friendships. Thankful most of the tough times have faded too.

Speaking of good friends, author Joanne Insull gave me a copy of 200 Years of Rochester Architecture and Gardens (1996) with photography by Andy Olenick, text by Richard O. Reisem, and design by Bill Buckett. There’s another trio of talented professional whose creativity and passion were part of that vibrant burst in the late 1990s to showcase our community. Richard Reisem is one of those community-history advocates whose kindness has lasted since I met him in 2005. How wonderful that kind memories linger over the years.

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