2300 Miles in a Rental Van - The Christmas Grand Tour

Nancy and I decided at the last minute to make a trip north for Christmas. We had celebrated Christmas 2 weeks early when the 3 kids came to Florida halfway between Thanksgiving and New Years. We thought that would satisfy our holiday cravings - but it didn't.

So since we had 15 bins full of Keith's stuff in our barn - we decided to drive them north to his new Washington apartment. We decided we could do 2 things at once - deliver his goods - and visit our friends and family back north. We were tempted to load all the stuff in our Ford Truck - but wiser heads decided to rent a 2006 Chrysler Van with Stow and Go seats instead.

On the first day - we drove from Tallahassee to Emporia VA. We used our GPS to land a nice hotel. Next day - we drove to the Washington Hilton - near Keith's apartment. We spent 1 night there - and the next day drove to Wilmington DE to visit my sister Judy and her family. Judy is a triple grandmother now - Sharon and Vaughn had Luke this year - and Kenny and Tara had Joey. It was the first time we have seen the new boys - here is a picture of Nancy with the latest "Everharts."

Next - Nancy, Keith, and I drove to Allentown to see Aunt Ethel and Cousin Ruthann. Ruthann is Nancy's favorite. They exchange gifts every year and this year was no exception.

Then - off to Tamaqua for two days. In Tamaqua - we got to have lunch in the Tamaqua Train Station with our good friends - The Taylors. After that we visited Nancy and Bussy Jones - Nancy's high school friends. Notice the picture of Nancy's sister Lori - Lori's Daughter Dana - and Lori's dog Bootsy.

We spent Chirstmas Day with Betty - Lori - Tyler - Dana - and partied with Uncle Boyle and Delores. Also - Keith and I visited a cemetery in Barnesville I had read about. We found the grave of my greatgrandfather - Nathan Brouse - and my greatgrandmother. There were about 8 Brouses in all buried there. Nathan Brouse would be the father of Mammy (my grandmother) and Dad's Mom. Nathan Brouse would also be Carl Zimmerman's greatgrandfather. It was pouring rain and 32 degrees as Keith and I took pictures of the tombstones. Imagine - I lived less than 5 miles from these family graves for 55 years and did not know about them. Secrets of the Internet.

After that we drove to Balitmore and spent a day with Drew and Robin at Robin's Dad's house. We had lunch with Bob - Lisa - Charlotte - Travis and Jay. Then it was back to DC and 2 nights in the Marriot. Nancy landed this fine hotel for free using some travel points - long story. While in Washington - we helped Keith settle into his apartment and we shopped for a few pieces of furniture.

We watch Florida State beat UCLA in Keith's apartment - although I spent a lot of the game listening to Nancy and Keith snoring.

Next morning Nancy and I decided to drive nonstop from DC to Tallahassee - 850 miles - 14 hours. The Chrysler van was great for cruising - quiet - smooth - and it got 24 miles per gallon - pretty good for a luxury van. We arrived home at 11 PM.

We packed a lot of fun and a little work into 8 days. We got to see so many people we love. We saw new family members - and Keith's new home and workplace.

We had planned to go to Tampa for the Penn State game on Monday - but did not want to spend another 8 hours in a car. We wanted to see Carl and Marylou in Tampa - but that will just have to wait.

So we had a busy and joyous Christmas.

Next big trip is Seattle and Vancouver in January.

Florida State Pounds "Big East" Providence - 92-62

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Jason Rich scored 17 points and Isaiah Swann added 14 as Florida State tuned up for the start of its Atlantic Coast Conference schedule with a 92-62 win over Providence on Friday night.

Al Thornton scored 11 for the Seminoles (12-2), who will take an eight-game winning streak into their ACC opener against Clemson on Jan. 3.

Providence (9-3) missed 15 of 20 shots from the field in the second half and shot 36 percent overall.

With Thornton riding the bench for 16 minutes because of foul trouble, the Seminoles overcame an early 13-2 deficit and led by as many as 13 before settling for a 45-34 halftime advantage.

Rich made 6 of 7 shots in the opening half, then Swann scored 10 during the 21-4 run Florida State put together in the first eight minutes of the second half to build the lead to 66-38. Providence was limited to one field goal during the stretch.

Dwain Williams led Providence with 15 points. Geoffrey McDermott and Herbert Hill finished with 11 apiece.

Florida State's eight-game winning streak, which began with a home victory over defending national champion Florida, matches the Seminoles' second longest since 1988 - two shy of 10 straight victories to open the 2003-04 season.

It's the third time in the past four years that coach Leonard Hamilton has his team off to a 12-2 start, although it hardly ensures the Seminoles will reach the NCAA tournament. They finished 18-14 in 2004 and 20-10 in 2006 and appeared in the NIT both seasons.

Two of Providence's three losses have come on trips to the Sunshine State. The Friars lost 85-67 at Florida on Dec. 6.

Internet Money Scam Hits Tamaqua Lady

A Tamaqua woman is now more than $4,000 in debt after falling for an internet scam.

Evelyn Roberts of 450 Biddle St., Tamaqua, had been corresponding online with someone who claimed to be in Great Britain. After several emails were exchanged, Roberts agreed to help her "friend" by cashing a check in the United States, then sending the bulk of the money back to England. She was to keep several hundred dollars for her efforts.

Roberts received a check for $4,000, cashed it, then moneygramed most of the funds to her correspondent. A short time later, she was notified that the original check had bounced and the bank was looking to get the cash back. Costs of sending the moneygram are also Roberts' responsibility, bringing her debt to more than the original $4,000.

Merry Christmas To Almost Everyone

We are spending a beautiful Christmas back in the hills of Pennsylvania. The weather here is really nice for this time of the year - overcast and 40s - no sign of snow - unless you count the frost on the van's windshield.

While we are enjoying this wonderful holiday safely with loved ones - take time to think about fellas like my student Chuck Shuck. Chuck is spending his third tour of duty in Iraq. This picture is Chuck with his bomb sniffing pal - Gabe. Chuck is a very professional soldier with a positive attitude. He loves serving his country.

Chuck will not like me saying this - but he is fighting to protect my right to say it. I am shamed of the mess that President Bush got our country in over in Iraq. I can't understand why Americans allow this to go on. We are wasting 1000s of lives and hundreds of billions of dollars - for nothing, I want our brave soldiers home now! I want Bush to stop wasting our lives and money for nothing.

Let's hope that next Christmas brings peace on earth.

Merry Christmas to everyone - especially Chuck. I hope George Bush is happy with his stocking full of oil.

FSU Fan Favorite - Andrew Wilson - Now An Asst Coach For Bobby Cremins

Article published Dec 20, 2006
Different style for Wilson
By Jack Corcoran
DEMOCRAT STAFF WRITER
After playing 129 games over parts of six seasons with the Florida State men's basketball team, Andrew Wilson wasn't sure how he would react when he finally had the opportunity to check out the Seminoles on TV.

"I found myself jumping up and down and really getting into the game," Wilson said.

FSU's upset of defending NCAA champion Florida on Dec. 3 was Wilson's first chance to watch his former teammates. He doesn't have much leisure time in his first season as an assistant coach under Bobby Cremins at the College of Charleston.

"I'm still adjusting to not being a player," Wilson said. "Six months ago I was still playing, trying to get into the NCAA tournament. And now all of a sudden, I'm on the opposite end of the spectrum. I'm really learning a lot."

Wilson was recruited to play at Georgia Tech by Cremins but signed with Steve Robinson and Florida State. His injury-plagued career with the Seminoles included four seasons with Leonard Hamilton, whose play-the-percentages style differs greatly from the approach Cremins used to become the Yellow Jackets' all-time wins leader.

"Exactly the opposite," Wilson said. "Coach Cremins is not a guy to play the percentages and play the odds. He's a guy that likes to take chances. That's the way he's been successful through the years. Everybody has their own way."

Cremins went 354-237 at Georgia Tech from 1982-2000. He left broadcasting to get back into coaching, taking over the Cougars on July 3. Wilson, who earned a master's degree in sport administration at FSU, was hired in August.

The College of Charleston improved to 5-6 on Monday with a 70-49 victory over Coastal Carolina (4-5), which visits FSU (9-2) on Thursday.

Season-ending knee and wrist injuries were frustrating at the time but allowed Wilson, 24, to stay so long at FSU. His luck sure has turned around.

"Trust me, I realize how fortunate I am right now to land a job like this at such a young age," Wilson said. "I realize there aren't a whole lot of guys around the country who get done playing and immediately are thrown into full-time assistant jobs."

Drew and Robin Enjoy VIP Seats at Syracuse/Baylor Game

When Drew and Robin found out that Baylor was coming to the Carrier Dome for a basketball game - Robin's grandfather who went to Baylor and was a member of the Olympic Basketball Gold Medal Team said there would be tickets waiting for them as a little gift. It appears that Jack is still a well-respected man at Baylor. Drew sent a picture from last night's game. You can see Drew right by the referee's elbow. That is Robin next to him taking a picture. They were in row BB - right behind the coach. Click picture to enlarge,

Class President Hacks Computer and Changes Grades

The president of the senior class at Cooper City High School was arrested Tuesday on charges that he used passwords he found to break into the school district computer system and change grades.

Ryan Shrouder, 18, faces two counts of a computer crime with intent to defraud, a second-degree felony after his arrest at school. He was released from the Broward County Jail after posting $5,000 bond. Each count is punishable by five years in prison.

The Broward School District suspended Shrouder for 10 days and is recommending his expulsion.

Shrouder gave himself and 19 classmates better grades, according to the arrest affidavit from the Broward Sheriff's Office.

Investigators said he made the changes with his laptop, which was issued to him by the school district for his role as an alternate student advisor to the Broward School Board. Shrouder found a list of district log-ons, user names and passwords on the desk of a school computer technology specialist in October, according to the BSO report.

He allegedly created additional sign-ons after that.

Acting Superintendent Jim Notter said student advisors are only given access to the districtwide e-mail communications system. But after Shrouder was given his computer on Sept. 20, the district's student records system was installed on his machine.

Shrouder's attorney said Tuesday he was disappointed at the school district's handling of the case. Officials could have punished Shrouder without an arrest, he said.

''This is a kid with a real future. I'm not excusing changing grades,'' attorney Jim Lewis said. ``It ain't a good thing. It ain't something where I think a kid should lose his whole future.''

Neither Shrouder, nor Cooper City High Principal Wendy Doll could be reached for comment late Tuesday. A district spokesman said other students may be disciplined.

Lewis said Shrouder was a good student.

''He had good grades on his own without changing any,'' Lewis said.

According to BSO, a classmate saw Shrouder change grades on Oct. 30 in a custodian's office and later that day in the school's student government affairs room.

School surveillance cameras recorded Shrouder with his laptop walking to the custodian's office that day. Then later, the video shows him coming out of the hallway where the student government office is, according to the arrest affidavit.

The video coincides with the time of grade changes recorded by the district's computer system.

Within hours, a guidance counselor preparing report cards for some of the school's 2,400 students noticed some students grades had jumped.

`FINGERPRINTS'

The next day, on Halloween, Shrouder went to the school office and asked about some grades that were changed.

''On this date and time, only four people in the entire staff of the school were aware that any grades had been changed, thus Shrouder was obviously aware of the grade change before it became public knowledge."

From the Miami Herald'

Greg Machay Died

One of my best childhood buddies died on December 9th. His name was Greg Machay. He was only 58. Click on the title for his obituary.

Greg lived in the "new houses" on the top of Lombard Street in Tamaqua. He was a golden boy - he could draw - he could play baseball - but man could he play the electric guitar. Everybody liked Greg. The guys loved his talent and grace on the baseball diamond - and girls loved his cute smile and the way he performed on stage. It seems he could pick up any guitar riff after hearing it only once or twice.

Greg played lead guitar for The Chevelles and sometimes Angie and the Strangers. But one of the greatest nights of his life and mine was the night in 1964 when he opened for The Beach Boys in the Lakewood Ballroom. Through some sort of snafu in marketing - only 300 people showed up to see the nation's number one rock and roll band. I was lucky enough to have a seat on the edge of the stage to watch my buddy play. Greg was angelic and was given great praise by Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. He said Greg and Angie were impossible acts to follow. That night lives in my memory like it happened minutes ago - not 42 years ago. One bright shining moment.

Every day in the summer at the Bungalow - the neighborhood gang would gather up and pick sides for baseball games that went on forever. Seldom was there a time when Greg wasn't picked first. Greg introduced me to the "hook slide" during one of our heated games. Greg was stretching a line drive to right field into a triple. He could round the bases like a greyhound. I was taking the throw at third base and the ball was there with time to spare. I had the ball in glove right in front of the bag - Greg was had - or so I thought. All of a suddden I could not believe my one good eye - I braced for Greg's slide only to have him do a perfect pirohet on the ground and approach the bag from the back. I was had - and to this day I never admitted he was safe.

We would "sleep out" at night and build "huts" in the day. I was always Rocky Colavito of the Kansas City A's and Greg was Maury Wills of the Los Angeles Dodgers. I am sure Greg's mom didn't like him around me - because I was a bad influence - but he didn't care - we were buddies.

When we were in 8th grade - the third member of our trio died from a brain tumor. Greg and I cried together over little Marty. Now I cry alone.

Christmas Came Early at Our House

Robin - Drew - and Keith - flew in late Thursday night to spend an early 4 day Christmas Holiday with us in Tallahassee. Nancy was able to arrange their trips so that they could all arrive and leave on the same plane from Tallahassee - a pretty neat feat when they live in Syracuse and Washington DC.

We all went Christmas shopping - visited Oven Park to see the Christmas Lights - had our customary holiday dinners of lobster and turkey - watched a lot of games on the TV - had breakfast at George and Joel's - opened presents - and ended the visit by watching the Seminole beat SE Louisiana in basketball at the Civic Center. Tallahassee had an unusual cold snap with temperatures reaching into the 30s on Friday and Saturday nights - but it warmed up into the 60s for a nice walk in SouthWood on Sunday morning. The frigid nights were a good test to see if the guest house could take the cold weather.
So for some of us - Christmas is over. Santa was good to us - brought us lots of nice presents - but the best one of all was having our three kids together with us to enjoy the holiday spirit together.

Christmas is Officially Here

Nancy is just getting ready to settle down to teach her Thursday night 6:00 to 8:00 class. Robin - Drew - and Keith are getting on their airplanes to fly down to visit for a 4 day weekend - and Nancy is done making her Christmas cookies.

Christmas came early for the Seminoles - with a basketball win over the National Champion Gators. Note Nancy's Snowmen and stockings.

Seminole Tribe Buying All Hard Rock Cafes

Click on headline to see full story.

Drew Got a Neat Present - The SlingBox

Drew got this really neat device called a Slingbox.

Slingbox is a computer device that you attach to your Tivo or any other video device with your router. Then when you are away from home - you can watch your home TV or video source over the internet. It is hard to explain how neat this is.

Drew gave me a demonstration. He lives in Syracuse NY. He uses a Directivo at home to watch and record TV programs. So the Slingbox is hooked directly to the Directivo via the red-white-yellow inputs. He then called me and asked me to go to the Slingbox page and download a piece of software. Then he gave me a password to type in to get directly to his TV system over the net.

Like magic - his TV program appeared on my computer. Better yet -- the remote control also appeared on my screen - and I could change channels - select programs he recorded on his Tivo - I could also set his tivo to record other programs with the remote. There is an exact graphic of his Tivo Remote - just press buttons on the screen.

The picture quality is excellent - better than regular cable. You can buy an HDTV version also. There is no fee to use this. You get excellent TV picture and sound for free as long as you are hooked to the internet.

You could also use it to monitor a security service from afar or maybe monitoring your office from home. The uses are endless. Anything that transfers video via the red-white-yellow inputs is fair game.

My son got his box for $102 on the internet. They are available for $150 to $250 at stores. The $250 model has a regular cable input so you could directly connect it to your TV cable at home.

Imagine sitting in your hotel room in Hong Kong and watching the local Tallahassee news or you favorite TV show.

I know what Santa is going to get me/her for Christmas. My wife travels a lot in her job. she would love watching her soaps and other favorite channels - also the Tallahassee news.

Gators May Be National Champs - But For One Night the Seminoles are State Champs

At about 7:00 - Nancy said "Let's go to the game." Harry said, "But Nancy's it is going to be on HDTV on Fox." Nancy prevailed.

We drove the scooter over to the Civic Center. It was a sellout crowd - but there were quite a few tickets for sale in the $40 to $45 range - for tickets that were marked $18 face value. So at 7:15 we split up agreeing that if we didn't get tickets for $10 each - we would go home and watch it on TV. I must have looked like a pathetic old fan in Drew's Seminole jacket - my Seminole shirt - and my fingers up. By 7:20 - I had two single seat tickets. Nancy and I entered the arena and went to our seats agreeing to call each other up if there were seats around us. My seat was right behind the FSU bench and there were tons of empty ones there. I was sitting with the players' parents. Nancy called to say her seats were right on the center court line in row 12. So I went ot sit with her.

After the game - the students stormed the court - on national TV. It was funny because after the court was completely covered with students - the security staff linked arms around the court - like they were going to keep the students there - what a joke!

So FSU won by 4. We were ahead the whole game by as much at 12. But frankly - everyone seemed to be holding their breath waiting for the Gators to explode. UF made one run at the end but FSU held them off. For just one night - FSU basketball was king. State Champs were crowned tonight.

Florida Governor's Mansion Open for Christmas Tours

Nancy and I went to see Governor Bush Friday. Unfortunately we did not arrive between 10 and 12 - so we will have to go back again Monday morning. The Governor's Mansion is on the end of Adams Street in Tallahassee. Adams Street is a brick street downtown that connects the mansion to the Capitol. Along most of the way it is lined with shops - restaurants - and the offices of lobbyists.

We visited it once before during the Christmas Season in 1988 when it was occupied by Governor Martinez.

Pictures of Schlorf Home on Fire

Here are some pictures of my friend George Schlorf's home. It caught on fire this week forcing George and his son Derrick to flee for their lives.

This home is on Lehigh Street across from my childhood home in Tamaqua PA. As a kid I spent many days and hours playing in this home. George's brother Charles - "Chugsey" we called him - went to school with me. The Sclorf's had 6 kids and this house was a busy place when I was growing up. They added a bar to it around 1960 - and I remember many big parties going on there.

The only news in a small town is house fires and car wrecks - we are all happy that no one was hurt. If you are like me - you are often looking for a really good cause for a donation - here is one where 100% of what you donate will go to the victims. George Schlorf - Lehigh Street - Tamaqua PA 18252

FSU Soccer Ends Up Third Best in Nation - Loses to Notre Dame 2-1

Cary, NC - The fifth-ranked FSU soccer team returned to the College Cup for the third time in four years and vowed to make this trip different. After suffering shutout losses in both previous trips, the 2006 Seminoles lived up to their word but fell just short of advancing to the school's first ever National Championship game. Notre Dame (25-0-1) ran out to a 2-0 lead on Florida State (18-4-4) and then held on during a furious second half attack for a 2-1 victory.

FSU's Buster Davis First Team All-American

From The Democrat -

Senior linebacker Buster Davis became the first FSU linebacker since Sam Cowart in 1997 to be named to the America Football Coaches Association All-America team. Davis was named All-ACC first-team by the Associated Press earlier in the week.

“I'm really honored that the coaches thought that much of me to give me this award,” Davis said. “It's as much of a tribute to the other guys on the defense as it is to me. I would have never been able to receive this honor if it wasn't for them. You always hope that you can be an All-American, and I'm just really proud to receive this award.”

Bill York - Panther Valley Science Teacher - Died - He was 77

Bill York was the co-operating teacher at Panther Valley High School when I was a student teacher there in 1970. Little did I realize that for most of our careers we would be members of the same science department. At the time I wished that I could become the seventh grade science teacher at Panther Valley. One must be careful what they wish for - 33 years later I retired from that position.

Many people do not know that when Bill was at Girard College and Temple University in Philadelphia he was a Golden Gloves boxer. Somehow it was remarkable because he was such a gentleman.

Bill was an excellent science teacher and an even better man. He will be missed.

Click Here to See the $100 Laptop

Click This Headline to See Pottsville Republican Story on Fire

Schlorf Fire Story from The Times News

Fire damages Tamaqua home

Two escape by climbing onto second floor roof

By DONALD R. SERFASS dserfasstnonline.com
Enlarge Image

DONALD R. SERFASS/TIMES NEWS Firefighters rush into the rear of this 216 North Lehigh Street home late Tuesday as smoke can be seen pouring from the Tamaqua residence. The owner and his son escaped serious injuries by fleeing onto a second story roof and climbing down a tree.
Two Tamaqua residents fled to safety out of a second story bedroom window late Tuesday when fire erupted in the rear portion of their home.

Flames and heavy smoke at the George Schlorf residence, 216 North Lehigh Street, forced Schlorf and son Derek, 16, to climb out onto a second floor porch roof and then make their way down a large tree and into the safety of a side yard, suffering only minor cuts or abrasions.

Schlorf is a brother to Tamaqua Fire Chief Tom "Okie" Schlorf, an Orwigsburg Street resident and one of the first to arrive on the scene.

"Flames were shooting out when I got here," said Chief Schorf, who grabbed a garden hose and played a stream of water on the blaze until firefighters arrived moments later.

The building was Schlorf's boyhood home and has been in the Schlorf family for many years.

Firefighters responded to a 10:36 p.m. call for a "working structure fire," which summoned all four Tamaqua companies, Coaldale Fire Department and Pottsville Fire Department.

The blaze appeared to be most intense at the rear portion of the large, wood-frame Victorian home, with flames shooting upward from a kitchen located on the first floor. The kitchen area appeared to be gutted by the flames.

"There was a lot of heat in there. It blew out a window and a door," said Chief Schlorf.

Neighbors said flames at the rear of the building initially could be seen shooting high into the air.

Fast response by firefighters helped to contain the blaze. However, the eight-room house sustained considerable damage from heat, smoke and water. Schlorf said it was too early to determine an exact cause.

Also responding were members of Coaldale fire police, Tamaqua fire police, Tamaqua ambulance and Tamaqua rescue. Fire police re-routed traffic in the west end, particularly around West Rowe, West Broad, Lafayette and Lombard streets. Firefighters were still on the scene at 2 a.m.

Gustavus "Gus" Schlorf, brother to Tom and George, told the TIMES NEWS that the house has been in the family for at least three generations and was once owned by his grandfather, Gustavus Knies. The home has been the site of many family gatherings for the large Schlorf family and was the site of a few weddings.

There Was a Bad Fire at Our Neighbor's Home in Tamaqua Last Night

Late breaking news. Last night while we all slept comfy in our beds - a fire broke out in our Tamaqua neighbor's home. George and Derrick Schlorf live in an old three floor frame house on Lehigh Street. From the bedroom in our Tamaqua House you could see across the alley - Lombard Street - into George's kitchen.

The fire appears to have started in the basement. George woke up on the third floor to smoke and crackling flames. He quickly ran to Derrick's room and got him outside. The house is pretty bad - smoke damage - burnt walls and roof - windows out. Single wood frame houses that are over 100 years old - burn fast.

George Schlorf is a good friend. He is about 50 years old and his son Derrick is a teenager. George was always helpful and is an excellent mechanic. One time - we put a new engine in my Suzuki Jeep together. I should say - George did it and I gave him moral support.

The irony of all this is that George's Dad - Stix Schlorf - was the fire chief in Tamaqua for 30 years. He lived in that house. Now George's brother - Tom - is the fire chief in town.

Goerge is one of the few remaining coal miners in town - he has worked off and on at the Greenwood Breaker.

My friend and neighbor - George Taylor - is starting a rescue fund to help the Schlorf's out. More on that later. If you can spare a couple bucks during this holiday season - George Schlorf - Lehigh Street - Tamaqua, PA 18252 - it would really be nice. Tell him Harry sent you.

When the story makes the newspaper - I will cut it and paste it here.

Florida State Going to the Emerald Bowl - Will Play UCLA - in San Francisco

Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden and his players will have another chance to finish with a winning record when they play in a bowl game next month, most likely the Emerald Bowl in San Francisco.

But, with FSU at 6-6 after Saturday's 21-14 loss to No. 4 Florida (11-1), the alternative exists, too. UCLA is 6-5 and will have the home crowd. This is the first time in FSU's short 60 year history that they will play UCLA.

“When we were in that winning streak we were in, I didn't think I'd ever lose again,” said Bowden, referring to 14 consecutive seasons of 10 or more wins and top-five rankings. “I was thinking, 'Man this is easy.' ”

Is the Glass half full or half empty? The Emerald Bowl guaranteed each team at least $750,000. The positive side is that it could be Boise.

Seminole Fall to 6-6 - Worse Record in 30 years

These two pictures were taken when FSU fought back to a tie from being down 14. Unfortunately it did not hold.

We had good seats - row 2 on the 40 - the sun was at our back. We were in the sun for 3 quarters - then shadow. The sky was clear blue - temp was about 70. Face value of the tickets was $48 each - Nancy paid $20 for them.

At the half - we were happy we were not getting slaughtered. Some fans were booing around us. In the second half we came out and had them beat. We looked good - then a couple bad breaks and it was over.

The Gators did not look like world beaters. I suspect they will be passed over for the BCS game even if they win the SEC title game.

6-6 - the worse season in 30 years. Well we were in all the games but one. I wonder if Bobby can capture the magic again. I hope so - this seems so much like Penn State all over again.

Stephen Simchak - My Former Student and Present Friend - Came to Visit

I met Stephen Simchak in 1970 in the first science class I taught at Panther Valley. But that was not this Steve - that was Steve the father. Around 1990 - Stephen Simchak Junior became one of my all-time favorite students. Stephen was on one of my student trips to Florida - he also flew out to visit us in Hawaii. Now he was one of the first to visit our home in Tallahassee.

Stephen is 30 now and handles Computer Technical Services for the Federal Aviation Administration in Washington DC. Stephen also earned a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science at the University of Maryland and loves the great outdoors.

While Stephen was here - we went GeoCaching - which is using a GPS to find things other people have hidden. We took the bikes and the paddle boat down to the Gulf of Mexico. We explored the St. Mark's Wildlife Refuge and had Steve's passport stamped there. We enjoyed lunch at the Riverside Restaurant looking through the floorboards at the St. Marks River. We ended the first day with a sunset jungle cruise on the Wakulla River at its source Wakulla Springs where Manatees, Bald Eagles and lots of Gators accompanied us.

Next day - we viewed Tallahassee from the obervation deck on top of the Capitol. Then we visited the Old Capitol Museum and the Florida History Museum.

Steve had flown into Tampa for a wedding. But he had time to spend so he drove a rental car the 4 hours to Tallahassee. He also planned to visit his sister who is a school teacher in Fort Myers - about 8 hours away. Then he will return to Tampa for the wedding where his wife Annelise will join him.

In the picture you see Stephen voting for Al Gore on the famous "butterfly ballot" at the Old Capitol Museum. Knowing Stephen - he is probably one of the few people that used that ballot that "really" wanted to vote for Pat Buchanon.

We had a great visit with Steve that was way too short.

Tamaqau Flooded by 5.5 Inches of Rain in 2 Hours - Worst Flood in 40 Years

Click on the title for the story. The worst rain I remember was 4 inches in 1 day.

Hacking Democracy

HBO, this Saturday, Nov. 18 at 6:00 PM.
Hacking Democracy is a film about how an election can be fixed with the new voting machines.

Today Mr. Mom Installed a New Stainless Steel Sink

Even though our old sink was only 4 years old - it was in bad shape. It was one of those composite - fiberglass and plastic sinks. It had stains - scortch marks - it was even melted in some places. So Nancy picked out this Kohler Stainless Steel Sink. The granite counter had to be cut along both the length and width. It made tons of gritty dust. The finished results are pretty nice though.

New AAA Baseball Team - Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs

Kurt Landes, General Manager of the Lehigh Valley AAA baseball franchise, and Chuck Domino, team president were set on one thing when they opened a promotion over a month ago to find a nickname for the team that will open play in the spring of 2008.

They both wanted the public to be involved in choosing it.

When Ron Steele, a 31-year old circuit layout designer from Northampton, submitted the name, he never realized how much of a big deal the nicname chosen out of 3,500 entries would turn out to be.

And the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs it is.

Dog Then Man Killed by Stump Grinder

Fla. man killed while pulling dog from stump grinder

LAKE WALES - (AP) -- A man trying to save a dog being pulled into a stump grinder was caught in the machine and killed, authorities said.

Robert J. Wagner, 25, and his friend, John Santilli, of Port St. Lucie, were using the grinder while at a hunting camp in the River Ranch area about 9:40 a.m. Sunday, said Polk County sheriff's spokeswoman Donna Wood. Santilli's dog got entangled when the animal's leash got caught in the machine, Wood said.

Wagner tried to rescue the 6-month-old Weimaraner but was pulled into the machine's blades. He died of lacerations and major head and body trauma, Wood said.

Deputies had to use four-wheel drive vehicles to get to the scene. Wagner and the dog were dead by the time authorities arrived.

FSU Closes Home Volleyball Season with 3-0 Win over VT

It was Senior Day today as FSU closed the home season beating Virginia Tech. The games began at 1 PM and were followed by honoring the seniors with plaques and flowers.

This is a picture of the 4 seniors.

Cat Lovers Will Love This - Click Here

Bobby Bowden's First Shutout at Home

These are times that try men's souls. Wake Forest 33 - Florida State 0.

100 MPH Chase Kills Motorcyclist

A deadly combination of speed and alcohol may have led to the deaths of a young motorcyclist and his female passenger in Miami Beach early this morning, police said.

The horrific accident occurred about 2 a.m. when a police officer spotted the motorcycle speeding south on Meridian Avenue, said Miami Beach police spokesman Bobby Hernandez.

Instead of slowing down when he saw the police car's flashing lights, the 21-year-old motorcyclist accelerated to more than 100 mph near the 400 block of Meridian.

The chase came to a stop when the motorcyclist hit a white, four-door Ford Taurus at the 10th Street intersection. The motorcycle operator flew off off the bike and died immediately.

The passenger, who would have turned 20 years old today, died en route to Jackson Memorial Hospital. Both were wearing helmets.

Passengers in the Taurus were treated at the hospital for minor injuries.

Hernandez said the motorcyclist, whose body was still on the scene of the crash as the morning commute began, had a ''business purposes only'' license as a result of a May DUI offense.

The now mangled Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle -- often touted as the ''world's fastest motorcycle,'' Hernandez said -- was rigged with a modified exhaust system and nitrous oxide to increase power.

From the Miami Herald

Volleyball Team Loses Two This Weekend

Just one week ago - FSU volleyball was flying high - challenging Duke for its top spot in the ACC. But now after a horrible weekend of losing to Clemson on Friday - 3-0 - and Georgia Tech today - 3-1 - we are in a real tailspin.

We have lost 5 of the last 7 matches. This weekend we have Virginia and Virginia Tech at home.

Nancy Stuck in Tampa

Nancy has been away for 5 days - meetings in Orlando and then Chicago.

Today she left Chicago early to fly home via Tampa and then Tallahassee. She had purchased two tickets for the flight home. As luck would have it - she missed the flight from Tampa to Tallahassee - the last flight to town.

So now she is stuck in Tampa. Will she get a rental car and drive the 4 hours home - or will she get hotel in the airport and fly home tomorrow morning at 7AM? I hope she gets the hotel - what's your call?

Added Monday - Nancy spent the night at the Marriot Tampa Airport - and flew home at 7 AM this morning. She spent most of the day in front of the fire warming up from 3 days in Chicago.

Tamaqua Football Coach Resigns

By JOE PLASKO jplaskotnonline.com
Following Tamaqua's season-ending 20-3 loss at Marian Friday night, an emotional Rick Bennett told his team that this was his last game as head coach as the Blue Raiders.

Bennett said he had told Tamaqua Athletics Director Mike Hromyak of his intention of stepping down earlier in the week but didn't tell the team until after the game, not wanting to interfere with the last game for his 16 seniors.

Bennett, a Tamaqua High graduate, posted an 8-22 record at the helm of his alma mater. He is 52-66 overall in 10 years, including stints at Mahanoy Area, Panther Valley and Palmerton.

Bennett said he is resigning due to the harassment of his family, particularly during and after last week's 26-3 loss to Minersville.

"It has nothing to do with the football players or the Tamaqua administration," said Bennett. "My son and daughter were attacked verbally last week by Tamaqua fans.

"My son went to get french fries at halftime and some fan had the guts to tell him his dad sucks. Another person stood and cursed me in front of my daughter while she was cheering during the game.

"I was born and raised here, I love Tamaqua football and I played it. This was my dream, and I'm not sorry I chased my dream, but my family comes first, and I will not put my family through this.

"I would love to stand in front of those persons' places of employment, if they even have jobs, and curse them in front of their children while they are trying to work," added Bennett.

Bennett thanked his players, assistant coaches, particulary Jim Barron, and the school's administration for their support.

"I'm going to leave here with my head held high," said Bennett, who said he doesn't know if he'll be a head coach again, although he might serve as an assistant coach if the opportunity arises.

FSU 33 UVA 0

It was 60 degrees and breezy at game time - but it was chilly in many ways. Tons of good tickets were available on the street - speakng loudly of how unhappy the locals are. I bought two tickets on the 40 yard line in row 69 for $5 each. We chose the tickets a full 40 minutes before game time - I am sure the ticket traffic was even better closer to starting time.

FSU scored 2 quick touchdowns in the first 5 minutes - one by interception and the other by a blocked punt. But the FSU offense was lethargic during the entire first half. With the exception of the two turnovers - UVA was outplayng us.

So now FSU is 5-4 with 3 home games left. I am guessing we will win 2 out of the 3 games left - and head to a minor bowl game. The last game against the Gators will be tough.

Here are some game day pictures to show you where Wayne and I sat. Nancy was busy at a conference in Chicago.

Florida State Plays Virginia Here Today at Noon

It is only 56 degrees at 10:30. Kick off is at noon - supposed to be 61 by then.

I am going to the game by scooter today - picking up friend and neighbor Wayne at 11. Tickets should be very easy to get for this game. I expect to pay less than $5 a ticket - someone might even give me some free ones.

I am hoping to get tickets in Section 33 - 50 yard line - sun at our back. It will also be shady in that area - which might be cool and breezy. Better take a heavy jacket.

Nancy is in Chicago at a library convention. It is 22 degrees there. She will be home Sunday at 5 PM. The best part of these conventions to me is that I am not paying the bill.

Florida State is 4-4 this season - this is our worst start in 30 years. The last 4 games are at home - Virginia - Wake Forest - Western Michigan - Florida. I expect FSU to win 3 out of 4 of those games and we go to a minor bowl. I would prefer the Peach Bowl in Atlanta. Pretty arrogant with a 4-4 record huh?

Another String of the Everhart Clan

What do you call your sister's daughter's son? Grandnephew? Well let me introduce you to my grand nephew - Luke Williams.

In the center of the picture is my lovely sister - Judy Everhart Scarborough. She lives in Wilmington, Delaware. To her left is my niece - Dr. Sharon Williams - the new mother. And in the yellow blanket - that looks a lot like Drew's baby blanket - is Luke Williams.

Sharon is the latest doctor in the "Everhart-Scarborough-Williams" household. She recently received her doctorate from the University of Florida. Luke was her graduation gift. Why isn't that blanket orange?

SENIOR CITIZEN BILL OF RIGHTS

1. I have the right to a monthly social security check.
2. I have the right to be provided socialized medicine.
3. I have the right to pretend that this free ride comes out of the social security trust fund even though no such fund or money exists except in the minds of my politician friends.
4. I have the right to pretend that I paid for this even though I have received much much more than I paid.
5. I have the right to pretend that the government owes me and pays these costs even though taxpayers know that they are forced to pay.
6. I have the right to pretend that young workers owe me this free ride.
7. I have the right to have my government friends steal the money from young workers to provide me my free ride because young people owe me.
8. I have the right to prevent the young taxpayers from investing their social security taxes for their future because their tax money needs to be used to pay for my free ride.
9. I have the right to pretend that I am a responsible conservative even though I am a socialist who actually believes that I deserve my free ride.
10. I have more money now than I ever had and I plan to give it to the casinos rather than leave it to my kids.

Pottsville Republican Quoted This Webpage

Somebody must be reading this "crap" that I write. This morning Nancy and I were settled in front of the fireplace reading the Sunday morning papers. I had my laptop there reading the Florida State football stories and the hometown papers from "back north."

While reading the Pottsville Republican - my mouth dropped to see that they quoted a story about the Wenzel Bakery from my blog. I felt like Navin (Steve Martin) in the movie "The Jerk" finding his name in the telephone book for the first time. "With publicity like this - big things are going to happen to me."

The closing of Wenzel's Bakery will be one is one of the saddest rites of passage for Tamaqua.

Click on the word "Quoted" in the title to see the Pottsville Republican article.

One of Our Best Buddies Darrell Burke Turned 50 This Week

Saturday before the FSU game - we went to a surprise party to honor Dr. Darrell Burke. You may remember Darrell from previous stories about selling cars. Darrell is the guy with the 1956 Buick. He loves cars and loves coffee.

Darrell turned 50 and his family had a nice party to celebrate the half way mark.

The first picture shows Darrell being surrounded on the happy day by his family - notice Nancy on the right. The second picture shows Darrell blowing out the 50 candle - notice the FSU shirt.

The party was held at their next door neighbors' home - Jim and Judy King. The food was excellent including that homemade chocolate cake.

FSU lost to UMD. We are now 4-4 - first time since 1976

The happiest of people .........

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; They just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

42 Inch Panasonic HDTV $1299 - Too Good to Be True?

Drew is always calling me with fantastic deals he finds on the net - I do not know how he finds them - but he is the king. Last year he bought a really nice Panasonic 42inch HDTV for $2400. I wanted one.

Yesterday - he wrote to say there was a grand opening deal at Frys.com for the same TV for $1299. I went online and there is was. Fry's is a great company that I ordered from before, So I quickly called them and place the order. They sent me a purchase order.

An hour later I went to the web page and now it was priced at $1799. There was a mistake in pricing. I called back Fry's and they said they would honor the price and that it was back ordered. By the way - it also was no sales tax - free shipping.

I am taking bets on whether it will arrive or not.

Nov 15th - This TV did arrive and it is really nice.

Wenzel's Bakery Closing

A Tamaqua landmark is closing. I was brought up on Wenzel pies - cakes - buns - dougnuts. My grandmother would stop there almost daily keeping her walk-in pantry full of Wenzel's goodies. My favorites were - the creme puffs - creme dougnuts - apple tarts - pumpkin pies - cut out cookies - bear claws - chocolate cupcakes. Many times my grandmother would come home to me sitting on the pantry floor in a sugar overdose with glazed eyes. Oh yes - don't forget the sugared and glazed doughnuts.

Here is the rest of the story from Don Serfass -

Wenzel’s Bakery, 125 W. Broad St., Tamaqua, will close over Thanksgiving after 73 years of continuous operation.
The days are numbered for Tamaqua's popular baked goods.
Wenzel's Bakery, a family-operated business begun in Coaldale during the struggling days of the Depression, will close next month after a run of 73 years.
"It'll be sometime around Thanksgiving," says proprietor George Wenzel.
Wenzel, who'll turn 82 in April, feels the time has come to call it quits, and acknowledges that people's tastes are changing, even when it comes to dessert. He says the new generation just doesn't have a yearning or appreciation for chemical-free, home-baked pastries. They're more into fast food.
"Today's young people buy at McDonald's, Burger King or the supermarket bakeries...We make it fresh. We don't use preservatives," he points out.
As a result, mom-and-pop bakeries are closing doors.
Company founder George Wenzel passed away in 1968.
"Every week I get a notice of bakery equipment up for sale someplace," he says, recalling that small towns often had more than one family bakery.
"In Mahanoy City, there were five. Tamaqua mostly had bread bakers."
At one time, those bakeries served as training ground for young men trying to make a living during a bleak period in American history.
George's father, George Sr., was one of those.
"He couldn't get a job due to the Depression," recalls Wenzel. His father had gained valuable baking experience, having worked at many local bakeries, including Eames, Bobst's, Christ's and Saylor's.
In fact, George Sr. was serving as superintendent when Bobst's workers went on strike. But after that, the job market was tight. So, in 1933, to get by, Wenzel borrowed sugar and flour from the local grocery store and started baking treats at his 149 Moser Avenue home.
"In those days, people bought on tick," recalls George. He got his ingredients on tick at Sicanavage's."
The elder Wenzel eventually opened a store at Second and Ruddle streets, where business started to grow.
The family purchased an old Ford, removed the rear seat, and started making deliveries. The bakery served the entire area and the business involved all members of the Wenzel family, including children George, Elizabeth, William and Robert.
The operation moved to Tamaqua in 1941. At the time, young George juggled responsibilities, as did other family members. He was still playing football for Coaldale High School yet managed to help his father run the bakery during a time when business was bustling.
"Back then we sold pies wholesale to the grocery stores. Then, I lived in Tamaqua and played football for Coaldale. I was a 150-pound tackle," he says.
"Ask Dick Jones (former Tamaqua High coach) about it. He always threatened to report me to the PIAA for living in Tamaqua and playing football at Coaldale," says Wenzel with a smile.
The Wenzel enterprises grew to include a Nash automobile dealership, a skating rink and a dance hall, all located at one time or another at a large Center Street commercial complex.
George Sr., who went on to serve as superintendent of Coaldale State General Hospital, passed away in 1968.
George Jr., a U. S. Army WWII veteran, echoed his father's devotion to public service, serving on Tamaqua Borough Council for 24 years, including many years as president. He's also active with the Tamaqua Rotary Club.
The bakery business on East Broad Street suffered a substantial setback on October 13, 1981, when fire gutted the building. The operation re-opened next door at 125 East Broad Street, with baking handled at the Center Street location.
At its peak, the bakery grew to include locations in Pottsville, Mahanoy City, Lansford and Allentown.
Wenzel says homemade pies and cream-filled doughnuts seemed to be the top choices among customers over the years.
Of course, various family members contributed their expertise.
For instance, William, or "Bill," was skilled at baking bread, doughnuts and buns. Elizabeth and George wrapped and delivered. Robert took care of the accounting. But all of those responsibilities shifted as needed.
William passed away in 1986, followed by Elizabeth (Wenzel) Krepak this past June.
Elizabeth's daughter, Suzanne (Krepak) Krell, still works at the bakery.
"I've helped out since I was 12, mostly running the store, she says."
George's son, George III, sometimes contributes by decorating cakes. In total, the operation employs six.
Wenzel says he will likely sell the baking equipment at the Center Street building. Plans are being formulated for that location but Wenzel says he is not at liberty to discuss details at this time.
"But I can tell you that the building will be torn down."
The Broad Street store will not be sold. Wenzel says the retail space likely would become available for rent.
Asked what he will miss most about the baking business, Wenzel can sum it up in two words.
"The smell."

Tallahassee - Water Temp 66 - Air Temp 66

Our first cold snap came down from the north last night - causing the heat pump to come on and the AC go off. We also got a good chance to use our new gas logs.

Last week - the water was 70 and the air was 86 - and Nancy was still doing her laps in the pool. I think she will be doing her laps the rest of the winter in the heated pool in the park down the street. They keep it 85 all year and put a dome over it on Thanksgiving.

Not much else doing here in Cracker Town. Florida A&M University (FAMU) is having their homecoming this weekend. The Famous Marching 100 will be in a homecoming parade this week. The Seminoles are licking their wounds and hoping to regroup for the University of Maryland this Saturday. Drew is flying down to Washington to go with Keith to the game. Steve - Keith's friend - holds a big tailgate party for the event.

I predict that FSU will bounce back and have a strong victory in College Park. Go Noles.

Nancy's Grant Makes The Times News

Read the story of Nancy Everhart's library grant in the Times News by clicking the above title.

Story About Legal Ticket Buying in Florida

Click on title for the full story

Musings of Trying to Get 7 Tickets Together in the Shade for the Boston College Game

We had lots of friends come by for the Boston College game. Matt Fredericks and Allison Collevechio drove all the way from Palm Beach after teaching a full day of school Friday - 6 hours of driving. Also our buddy Wayne's daughter and granddaughter flew down from North Carolina for the game - all nervous that Harry would not be able to get them tickets. So there were tons of pressure for Harry to land "7 seats together on the 50 yard line in the shade."

The weekend started nicely enough with FSU beating Wake Forest in volleyball on Friday night - 3-0. The gym was packed to the rafters for the nationally televised game. We were hoping this was some kind of good sign - unfortunately things went downhill from there.

On Saturday - Harry took the truck and the tent over to the stadium to stakeout their favorite parking spot only to find some fellow there with 7 chairs on "Harry's" spot. After a little convincing - Harry got the guy to move two of the chairs and Harry set up camp. Then Harry rode his bike home - feeling the "bad vibes" of the day beginning.

At 2PM - Wayne, daughter Cori, and granddaughter Alysha arrived at our house to take us all to the game. I could tell they were all skeptical of Harry's ability to get games tickets - the radio was touting the game as "sold out."

Upon arrival at the stadium - Nancy set up the tailgate party. Hot dogs were the main entre - but the hit of the day was Nancy's chocolate cupcakes decorated in FSU Garnet and Gold. The big deal around the stadium was that the Seminoles were wearing all black uniforms - somehow Nike conned everyone into thinking this somehow honored the Seminole Indians. Frankly - it honored the Nike cash registers because all the "sheep" insisted on wearing these stupid shirts. By the way - black shirts with garnet (maroon) numbers are impossible to read from 50 rows up in the bleachers - even in bright sunlight.

Harry and Matt took a quick exit from the party to go "bargain for tickets." Florida recently passed a new "scalping law" that allows people to openly sell their tickets for whatever the market would bear. This is a great law - because so many folks were selling extra tickets - it put the "real" scalpers out of business. Even 2 hours before game time - ticket prices were well below face value.

The ground rules were simple - Nancy insisted on being in the shade - and also wanted between the 30 yard lines - this was very limiting and Matt and I turned down lots of tickets that could be had for $5 to $10 because they weren't "in Nancy's parameters." Then - a young man offered me 2 seats exactly on the 50 in row 17 but on the sunny side of the field. He wanted $50 each - but I finally got him down to 2 for $30 total. I looked at Matt and he said "take them." So Matt and Allison were set - he put the tickets in his wallet. Just as Matt was ready to go back to the party - a fellow walked up and handed me a free ticket - I planned to use that one. I am glad Matt was there because no one would have believed me otherwise.

Now I needed 4 together for Nancy and Wayne's family. A kid about 12 years old walked up to me and offered 4 in section 9 - good seats but on the sunny side - I offered $10 each - as a safety valve - I looked over at his dad about 30 feet away - and he said okay. I bought the tickets for $10 each and figured I could safely get back to the party.

When I got back to the party - my lovely grateful wife Nancy - started whining about the seats being in the sun - this from a lady that dragged me kicking and screaming from Tamaqua, Pennsylvania to live my golden years in the sunshine so she would not have to dye her hair. Also Alysha attending her first FSU game ever - although I predict it will not be the last - noticed that the 4 tickets the kid sold me were not together - just in the same section. I was tricked by a 12 year old kid.

So back I went into the boiler room of "trading Seminole game tickets." I started by holding up 7 fingers and also 5 tickets - feeling very stupid. Folks started offering me all sorts of deals. They either pitied or trusted this old "grayhead" because they started buying and selling. I felt like I was on the New York Stock Exchange floor because I had buy and sell limits. I bought tickets for $10 and sold tickets for $25. When the smoke cleared - I had 5 seats on the shady side near the 50 in my hand - and I had more money in my wallet than I started with. I felt like Jesus with the 5 loaves of bread and 2 fishes. Back to the "tailgate" I strutted with my new found booty in hand.

The weather was perfect for a game - 75 - bright sunny - a little breeze. Matt and Allison sat in their sunny side tickets - roasted - and came back with sun burn and raccoon eyes. The rest of us enjoyed the breeze in the shade.

The game - Boston College won - the black uniforms sucked - and now FSU is 4-3 and worried about winning enough games to make a bowl game. FSU has lost 3 games by a total of 15 points - and you would think Bobby lied us into a war in Iraq and after 4 years and a "mission accomplished" sign we were losing over 100 soldiers a month. Such is life in Tallahassee.

To make matters worse - our second place volleyball team played Duke on Sunday and they beat us 3-0 on national TV. Harry got his first closeup on national televison and to make matters worse went home to find out our national number 3 ranked soccer team was beaten by the Blue Devils in Durham.

I guess it could be a lot worse. I could be in Iraq with Chuck searching out roadside bombs with my dog - but instead I am loafing around the house - unshaven - on a Monday morning - in sunny Florida - avoiding cleaning the bathroom - and whining to you on the internet.

Matt and Allison are on the Way to Visit

Matt and Allison just left Palm Beach at 6PM Friday night - 417 miles away. They expect to be here at midnight. It should be a fun weekend - especially if Florida State beats Boston College at Doak Campbell Stadium.

If FSU loses this game - they have no chance to win the ACC title because they would have 3 losses. Boston College has only one loss on a last second play at NCSU. The ACC champ automatically goes to a BCS bowl - usually the Orange Bowl.

Also tonight Wake Forest is here for volleyball - and Sunday Duke is here for volleyball. Duke is undefeated and leading the ACC.

Matt Fredericks and Allison Collevechio are two of my former Panther Valley students. They are both teachers in the public schools of Florida now - I am pretty proud of them.

Folks do not realize that you can drive 1000 miles to get from one end of Florida to the other.

Evolution of Dance

Click on title to see why 35,000,000 people can't be wrong.

Nancy's Niece and Sister

While visiting back home in Pennsylvania - Nancy got to see her niece - Dana - run in a cross country meet versus Panther Valley - the school where I taught. Dana is the daughter of Nancy's sister Lori.

I like to tease Dana by saying she looks just like Nancy did when I married her...........and she does.

Remember When My Computer Was Stolen in San Diego?

My friend Bob O'Lary sent this to me.

"I saw this in the Tallahassee police E-News report & wanted to pass it along. sounded familiar.

I WANT TO BUY MY CAR: Two suspected car thieves in San Diego, California, answered a phone call that they should not have. Police there say that the stolen car's rightful owner dialed the number of his own cell phone hours after the vehicle was stolen October 5. The person who answered the phone offered to sell the car back to its rightful owner and arranged to meet the man later that day. But instead, the victim called the cops, who sent undercover officers to the meeting. When a 23-year-old and a 17-year old girl came up to the detectives, the pair were arrested. The stolen vehicle's keys were found on one of the suspects, and police found the car parked just around the corner."