Pop Quiz

As we reach 2023's midpoint, turning the tables & asking questions

Since late March, I have shared wide-ranging stories on this platform dubbed “Smokestack” by my octogenarian father-in-law, Tim McCarthy.

Those nearly 30 pieces have included chapters of my journey with my often-homeless (and always-remarkable) brother, how I parlayed a trip to Italy into quitting coffee, my interview with curmudgeonly Hollywood star Mickey Rooney, and the wacky way I met Congressman Adam Schiff outside my daughter's college dorm room. 

This week, a reader told me that my writings have struck him as a sort of journal. I think that’s a good description. I have tried to balance stories from the past, both recent and distant, along with the here-and-now events in my life that I hope resonate with you.

Now, as we reach 2023’s midway point, I want to turn the tables, at least a little bit.

Below are 15 multiple-choice questions designed to provide feedback about this column, learn a little about you, and plant future column seeds.

Brace yourself: some queries are serious, others a blend of random and whimsical. This quiz remains “live” for a week, through next Saturday morning.

Your responses will be entirely anonymous and should take just a few minutes to answer. Thanks, in advance, for participating.

Thanks for taking the time to answer these questions. Whether it’s an idea for a future column or anything that’s been sparked by this pop quiz, I welcome your comments.

Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday weekend!