The Dean's List

The Jackson Legacy Continues Since moving to Phoenix, I still try to keep up with news and events back home. Unfortunately, I do not keep up with everything.   I was checking out some Rochester news stations and newspapers the other day and saw clips and stats from the Bishop Kearney HS basketball phenom, Taylor Norris. When I tell you, this young lady can ball……Wow!! But there was something about her that felt familiar…… Trenton Jackson Several years ago, I worked on a committee to dedicate the new sports complex at Ben Franklin High School. It was being named after a beloved coach, the late Trenton Jackson. Not only was he a coach and teacher, he had a phenomenally successful career in various sports. He played basketball and baseball in college, he also participated in the Olympics in track and played professional football. I had the opportunity to meet his entire family while I was working on the event. I learned that all his children played sports in h...

Those who know me know that my biggest fear is dying alone. Many people are doing just that during the Coronavirus/COVID19 pandemic. My friend Donald died last week...at home...alone. Thousands of people are dying every day, without their family by their sides due to this virus! Some of the stories I’ve heard are heartbreaking! It’s been a rough couple of weeks for our country, our world. I received word yesterday morning that another friend died of the virus!   As hard as I try to stay away from the news, I find myself sneaking behind my own back to get the latest (I know!). My emotions are all over the place! Scared, depressed, anxious, angry, mad! And I must admit, I have bouts of conspiracy theories running through my head as well! I keep hearing people say this is our “New Normal!” This can’t be! Right? I’ve shed many tears lately, but last night I think I let a month’s worth go while watching TV! This is a clip from the television show Chicago Fire which features ...