Just an old-fashioned love song

Admittedly, Valentine’s Day is not my favorite holiday. Having made that clear in the past, I did not expect a flurry of invitations to celebrate, yet they came my way regardless.

It’s not that I begrudge lovers having their own day, but I don’t necessarily look forward to it. Chocolate, however, is always welcome in my house and this past weekend provided several opportunities to soak up some culture and satisfy my sweet tooth all at the same time.

go to column

Berlin

It’s dingy and dimly lit at the Golden Gate in Berlin. Techno music thumps loudly, and smoke fills the room. It is a far cry from the fancy places we have been eating and hanging out in. But it’s exactly what I am in the mood for. It is 3:30 a.m., I haven’t adjusted to the time difference yet and am not tired.

The entrance is under an overpass and there is no sign on the door. We are not sure we are in the right place getting out of the cab, and I have no concept of where I am geographically in the city. I’m in Berlin for the premiere of “Beautiful Darling,” a feature documentary that I edited and co-produced about Candy Darling, an Andy Warhol superstar.

go to column

When it comes to streams, size doesn’t matter

By Nick Spinelli

A few years ago I was talking about the Delaware River with a group of young campers when a particularly intuitive camper asked where the river started. Without batting an eye I replied, “Hancock, New York.” But continuing with my talk, I realized the answer is much more complex than one geographical location.

go to column