Thank You, Andy Byford

Even if one has never visited New York City, most, if not all people know about the New York City transit system, known as the MTA. But, if you live or work here, you may be inclined to use certain phrases about the MTA that I will not be using on this blog.

Two years ago, Andy Byford accepted the role of President of the New York City Transit Authority. Yesterday was his last day on the job.

When he took over as President in 2018, he took on a Herculean task. The system serves millions of riders and is over 100 years old. In addition to dealing with the public, he had to work with the the local and state governments, and ensure that his staff had what they needed to do their jobs.

Under his tenure, there was real improvement. Unfortunately, due to rumored conflict with the Governor, Mr. Byford chose to step down.

Thank you Andy Byford, for your attention and your effort. The transit system will never be perfect, but the improvements are a step in the right direction.

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The Stationery Shop Book Review

In our world and our culture, the idea of young love is put on a pedestal, especially when it is enveloped in the idea of class or political warfare. The question is, can this young love overcome the challenges?

The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali was published a few weeks ago.

The book is set in two periods: Iran in the early 1950’s and New England in 2013. In the early 1950’s Iran is torn between the past and the present, between democracy and a religious autocracy. In this world our lovers, Roya and Bahman meet for the first time. They are young, passionate and eager to begin their lives as a married couple. But on the day that they are to say their vows, Bahman disappears.

When it becomes obvious that Bahman is not coming back, Roya moves to America and a new life. Decades later, a twist of fate brings Bahman and Roya back together. After sixty years, she still is still asking why he abandoned her.

I know that it’s only February, but this is one of the best books of the year. Using a narrative baseline of Romeo and Juliet and mixing in Iranian history with class politics, the author is able to weave together a story of young love that stands the test of time.

I absolutely recommend it.