Welcome to "This Side of the Tracks." In this book, I invite you to journey through a collection of short stories that reflect my perspective on growing up in the Brentwood area of Harrison, New York. It is a place that shaped my early years and influenced the person I would become.

These stories are woven together by memories from my childhood in the 1960s, offering glimpses into a world filled with friendships, laughter, and experiences that defined my youth. Within these pages, you will find not only my recollections but also photographs and narratives that were once featured in local newspapers, capturing moments of community and connection.

Harrison, with its close proximity to Manhattan of just a 30-minute train ride to Grand Central Terminal, provided a unique backdrop for my upbringing. As I ventured beyond the boundaries of my hometown, my narratives expanded to include trips to upstate New York during my adolescent years, as well as explorations of the vibrant streets of New York City, particularly Manhattan and the Bronx.

As you turn the pages, I hope you find a sense of nostalgia in my stories. Many readers who grew up during this period may see reflections of their own childhood in my experiences. Thank you for joining me on this journey through time and memory. I sincerely hope you enjoy reading my stories as much as I enjoyed writing them.