Rob's Blog

Addicted to Dexter

Hi. My name is Rob and I'm an addict. I can't stop watching all the episodes of the Showtime series, Dexter. I guess my wife is an enabler or fellow addict, because she is as addicted as I am. We must have watched about 8 hours during the last 2 days. Seriously, I think the show is the best thing on television these days. The acting is fantastic, the characters are superbly nuanced, and  the scripts are brilliant. For those of you who don't know, Dexter is a serial killer "with a heart of gold". He only kills the bad guys, other serial killers who are killing innocent people. He has a moral code he lives by, instilled by his deceased father. His past has informed his behavior, but I won't give that clue away. And you absolutely root for him, and worry about him when he gets into trouble. Besides the quality of the show, why is it so addictive? I guess, it addresses a universal theme, and often used dramatic device, reflecting the fact that we have a dual nature, whether it be good and evil, mature and infantile, kind and violent. See "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde". Dexter considers himself a "monster" but is also a loving husband, father and brother. To watch how he integrates this dichotomy is fascinating, and what drives the narrative so dramtically. And not surprisingly, along with the anquish and pain depicted, there is humanity and humor in the episodes. So, we've just finished with Season 3, and looking forward to Season 4, which is supposedly one of the best, featuring John Lithgow as the "Trinity Killer".  What makes this addiction different from others? It challenges you to think and provides insight into the human condition. Oh, and it also doesn't give you a hangover!   

Morry's Story

After 23 years in the news biz, Morry Alter is retiring. WCBS-TV story The inspired creator of Morry's Stories is not only a great reporter and person, but a wonderful friend as well. He, Joan and Lulu will be sorely missed by their friends and neighbors in Monclair and New York, and by Starbucks! We were lucky enough to have Morry and friends over at our house last night to celebrate his retirement and wish him and his wife Joan, the very best.

MORRY AND PETER

MORRY AND BEAUTY

MORRY AND "MARTIN" -- A new career?!

JOAN (right) AND BARBARA LEWIS, real estate agent -- who sold almost everyone at the party a house -- or two!!