JOURNAL

JOURNAL ARCHIVE

 

December 25, 2006

December has been a month filled with basketball, basketball and more
basketball. But, I have also had the opportunity to spend quality time with my five grandchildren and family, as we had a blast in Orlando, Florida at
the Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom and Epcot Center. We all enjoyed the
Very Merry Christmas Parade and were certainly entertained by Mickey and
Minnie and all of their friends - you can never be too old to have a great
time at Disney!

I also just returned from New York City and Madison Square Garden, where Duke
defeated the Gonzaga Zags in a great defensive performance. Along with me
to take in the holiday festivities were my wife, Lorraine, my two daughters
and four of my grandchildren. While in New York, we saw the beautiful tree
in Rockefeller Center and we enjoyed The Christmas Spectacular with the
Radio City Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. We all had a great time and
it truly got all of us in the holiday spirit.

However, one of the most meaningful things I was able to do over this
holiday season was host a special holiday party for some great kids in
Sarasota County who attend the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota County. I
believe that the Boys and Girls Clubs of America are among the finest
non-profit organizations we are able to offer our youth. They truly are
working each day to help make a difference in the lives of the kids who come
to their clubs.

Each year, I have the opportunity to play Santa Claus to some special kids. They come over for a party in my home with my family. We all enjoy some
good food, good times and of course, some great gifts. It is a true honor
for my wife and I to bring some holiday cheer to these kids. I truly
believe the best part of the holiday season is being able to give to others
and make a difference in a another's life. I certainly hope that is what I
was able to do during their visit. I imparted on them my strong belief of
the importance of making intelligent decisions in life and when you do, good things will happen.

I wish all of you a very happy holiday and all the best in the new year!