Words

Idiots'Books, a writer-illustrator duo who make books in the hayloft of a Maryland barn.

Mark Oppenheimer, writer, founder and editor of the New Haven Review.

The New Haven Review, which draws attention to New Haven-area writers, resuscitates the art of the book review. Full disclosure: I help edit it.

John Scalzi, novelist, blogger, Ohio resident.

Jeff VanderMeer, novelist, editor, teacher, Floridian.

Music

Harry Bolick, graphic designer, friend, and writer of fantastic fiddle tunes; he designed this website.

Jeremy Goddard, a man with soul.

Jonny Rodgers, who really does sound like no one else.

Nathaniel Rowan, luthier and fellow Mud Brother; he made my fiddle and banjo.

The Wiyos, phenomenal purveyors of ragtime, blues, and old-time country.

WPKN out of Bridgeport, CT; what radio can be like.

Causes

The International Rescue Committee, a humanitarian relief organization; these are our global firemen, the people who run into burning buildings to save lives while the rest of us are running out.