His mother, Theresa, attended daily Mass. His father, Gabriel, was a successful barber. His family and friends called him “Al.” His detractors labeled him “Scarface,” but never ever directly

Broken Legacy I feel like a tourist whenever people elaborate on their family trees, and when I hear about family reunions, I’m a nomad in a land of clans. I have Blackfoot, Seneca, and Cherokee

On a recent visit to the Book Market in Oakland, my treasured stop in Mountain Maryland, I was immediately tempted by Bruce Springsteen’s autobiography, Born to Run. As a former

Black marks, blacks scars  Lines that are tributes to the stars Reoccuring phrases call for mercy The blank eyes remain thirsty Joined hands are keepers of the doors The remains of the vision are

On this Veteran’s Day, we present an essay about U.S. Army veteran and revered author Edgar Allan Poe and the effect his military service had on the rest of

Halloween Somewhere in town tonight, a woman is discovering her inner Sexy Pirate. This is not to be confused with one’s inner Sexy Witch, Sexy Kitten, Sexy Librarian, Sexy Bo Peep, Sexy Vampire, Sexy Race Car Driver,

At some point, almost every little boy dreams of being a hero. But very few ever get to play that part opposite their childhood idol. Bill Mumy – the

How is it that a twitching television sitcom – which debuted more than fifty years ago – still spellbinds long-time fans while conjuring up a new generation of viewers?

The Zozo Phenomenon probes the mystery behind a malevolent Ouija spirit named Zozo. (Rebecca Smith) For decades, unsuspecting users of spirit (Ouija) boards have been pestered and attacked by a