Publication of "The Loss of Andrea Doria"

Today, a technical paper that I co-authored with naval architect and friend, William Garzke, goes to publication. This is a proud moment for me. It is an opportunity to help humanity—specifically in contributing to passenger safety on our seas. This … Continue reading

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A Tribute to a Rescuer: Jimmy Latham Walker

  Meeting Jimmy Walker was a great opportunity. He flew to Michigan a year ago for our “reunion”. We hadn’t formally met yet, except by circumstance–during the sinking of the Italian luxury liner Andrea Doria.  Jimmy was one of the … Continue reading

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The Passing of a Distinguished Architect and Collector of Nautical Memorabilia

This week, I received two sad e-mails regarding the passing of two gentlemen connected to the Andrea Doria. This post is about one of them: notable architect Der Scutt. The next blog will be dedicated to a rescuer and friend … Continue reading

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Meeting James Cameron–part three

Another partial standing ovation followed. James Cameron and Bill Garzke returned to our table. People followed them, hoping for a quick chat or to give praise. I offered Cameron my compliments for his interesting talk: “I never thought I could … Continue reading

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Meeting James Cameron– part two

The chairperson for the evening began her introduction of ASNE’s coveted guest:   …He studied physics and English at California State University. Later, he discontinued his studies and worked several jobs such as machinist and truck driver and wrote when … Continue reading

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Meeting James Cameron–part one

My friend Giuliano called me shortly after 9 p.m. on 2-3-10 to inform me that “my friend” James Cameron was appearing on the Larry King show. I told Giuliano that I was on a Teleseminar; but after two  seconds of reflection, … Continue reading

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North American International Auto Show, Detroit 2010

A Link to the Andrea Doria  A producer from Rome who came to my home in Michigan for an interview observed, “It seems like everyone has a connection to the Andrea Doria.”  In my authorial journey I have found this … Continue reading

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For Thanksgiving

The following excerpt is the ending to my short story in the Thank God I…book series. It expresses my gratitude for what I’ve learned from being part of the most calamitous collision at sea AND the greatest sea rescue in … Continue reading

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Feedback Regarding My WGN Television Interview

Wow! I didn’t expect to get such a great review from an expert media person whose career involves media training.  Thank you,   Shawne Duperon! ************************************************** Author Pierette Simpson Lands a Coup on WGN Atlanta ************************************************** Author Pierette Simpson recently … Continue reading

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Feedback from the SNAME* Annual Conference

Dear Pierette: The Marine Forensic Committee that I chair opened the Technical and Research Session of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers at its national meeting in Providence, Rhode Island. Our one-hour part of the program as certainly … Continue reading

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