Charles Roth, May 23, 2025

So there I was, at the start of a 2-week 'wander' out East, at a rest-stop on I-90 in NY, headed for the Gotta Get Gone folk music festival...

... when I noticed this professional-looking woman setting up a complicated phone camera stand and microphone -- just outside the Dunkin Doughnuts.

Being naturally curious, I stopped to chat with her about her gear -- only to learn that she was a TV news journalist (Dana Damiani), preparing to interview Memorial Day travellers about their journeys and experiences -- and would I be willing to be her first interviewee?

Well, you all know how shy I am -- so of course I regaled her with tales of my 'wander-jahr', folk festivals, singing sea-shanties while driving, and such. 

The result aired that night on Spectrum News NY1, and she was kind enough to send a link to the news story.

I've edited it (to just include my parts) below:

She added in a private note:

Hi Charles!  You were by far the best interview of the day.  Thanks for your help, and for making me smile this morning!  Safe travels to you, and happy birthday!

Adventures await in the oddest places.  Something for me to remember...