Congress

I believe Mark Twain would not be at all surprised by the quality of candidates available to run for Congress.  He covered  Congress as a newspaper reporter.  He needed a job and was very particular about the type of job he would accept.  If the position required anything that could be described as work, he … [Read more…]

Mark Twain visits a Masonic Lodge

I did a “Mark Twain” speech this week at the James B.Green Masonic Lodge #735 A.F. & A.M. in Raleigh, N.C. The invitation to speak was offered by Master Mason Donald R. Steichen. I met Don a few months ago when he led the effort at starting a Toastmaster’s Club in the Bedford community of … [Read more…]

The Dark Path

One of the causes that Mark Twain become involved with was the cause of the adult blind. His friendship with and admiration for Helen Keller inspired Twain to help raise money and awareness on the issue. In 1906, Miss Keller asked him to read a letter she had written meant to inspire New Yorkers to give until … [Read more…]

The Collection Plate

There are parts of my personal history that I share with Mark Twain.  Like Mr.Twain, I was born in Missouri and felt a love and respect for the river. I also share something with Mr.Twain that I am not so proud of, then or now.  As an adult, Mark Twain was sitting in church one … [Read more…]