Rockland County. NY – Robert Brum

Rockland Lake Returns to the Ice Age

My article originally appeared in https://hudsonvalley.town.news/ Of the estimated half-million people who visit Rockland Lake State Park each year, how many know the lake was once a leader in the ice harvesting industry? Drawn by the lake’s spring fed water and its proximity to the Hudson River, New York City and shipping lanes, the KnickerbockerContinue reading “Rockland Lake Returns to the Ice Age”

A hundred years of solitude along the Hudson River

A misty summer morning at Marydell, overlooking the Hudson River. 2024 photo by Robert Brum

Mother Marianne bought this foreclosed farm adjacent to the Hudson River in 1924, creating a peaceful setting to connect with nature, spirituality, and one’s inner self. Here’s my article on the Marydell Faith and Life Center’s past, present and future.

A new chapter in tiny church’s long history

When this little Presbyterian church’s congregation decided to close its doors, the property’s future was uncertain. Neighbors wondered what was next. A housing development? Here’s the next chapter for this Congers house of worship. https://hudsonvalley.town.news/g/nanuet-ny/n/252515/historic-rockland-county-church-has-new-owner

He’s worked with Mother Teresa, the Dalai Lama and E. Jean Carrol

“I’ve learned to be a lifelong learner among lifelong learners." - Richard Connolly

He’s taught at Rockland Community College for more than a half-century, published books with some of the world’s most respected thinkers, produced albums by blues, jazz, pop stars and poets. He’s a behind-the-scenes guy worthy of some attention. Oh, did I mention I had him as my professor and advisor? Meet Richard Connolly, my longtimeContinue reading “He’s worked with Mother Teresa, the Dalai Lama and E. Jean Carrol”

Dylan’s first manager: Bob was ‘too freaky’ to be hired

Terri Thal, Bob Dylan and Dave Van Ronk on the cover of Thal's memoir, "My Greenwich Village: Dave, Bob ad Me." Photo: McNidder & Grace

She was Bob Dylan’s first manager. She married the folk singer who was in the inspiration for “Inside Llewyn Davis.” And she was witness to and participated in shakeups that rattled society’s foundations. In the late 1950s and early 60s, Greenwich Village was the epicenter of a folk music revival amid a surge in politicalContinue reading “Dylan’s first manager: Bob was ‘too freaky’ to be hired”

Jasper Johns’ Retreat: ‘Think Grey Gardens, Not Better Homes and Gardens’

The artist installed floor-to-ceiling garage-door style rollup windows to add light to his studio. Photo by Mark Vergari/The Journal News

The secluded Stony Point home and studio where one of America’s greatest living artists found inspiration is on the market. Jasper Johns’ converted 1930s barn, tucked into a hillside and hidden from view along West Main Street, is listed with Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty for $600,000. “I do most of my work here,” the reclusiveContinue reading “Jasper Johns’ Retreat: ‘Think Grey Gardens, Not Better Homes and Gardens’”