Jim Stark Blog

Cousin Dick Frederick

Dick Frederick was my dad’s cousin, who is therefore my first cousin once removed. Cousin Dick was one of my favorite relatives. Dick had a distinguished military career. I have not been able to find documentation of his service, but as a Purdue University grad, I believe he was at least a Major or perhaps […]

Jimmy Carter

Jimmy Carter found himself in the White House as President following a tumultuous period of Watergate and international challenges. Although, he was not affiliated with my particular political party, he accomplished much I admired. His efforts in Human Rights, Middle East Peacemaking, work as a Washington DC outsider, non-political orientation as President, and as a […]

Uncle Marvin

My grandmother Stark’s brother, great uncle Marvin Frederick, a graduate of Dartmouth College, served in both World Wars and was a very successful corporate executive. He was Treasure of the General Electric Company. He was also a deacon at the prestigious Riverside Church in New York City. The famous preacher Dr. Harry Emerson Fosdick was […]

My Friend William F. Buckley, Jr.

The famous conservative author, William F. Buckley, Jr., had a legendary biography as best-selling author, magazine publisher, TV personality, and confidant to presidents Nixon and Reagon. I became acquainted with Buckley because of his avocation and skills as a deepwater sailor. His adventures with companions who included ambassadors, Time/Life editors, and other distinguished companions involved […]

Hot Enough For You

Death Valley is known as the hottest, driest, lowest national park in the United States. With an elevation 282 feet below sea level, Death Valley holds the world record for recording 134 degrees in 1913. This year having had 17 consecutive days above 120 degrees, it appeared it might be a candidate to set a […]