Harry Potter and the Amazing Summer Event

In the 1977, there was an amazing event which took place in movie theatres all over the country: Star Wars, Episode IV premiered. I remember. I was there. Nothing could probably be compared to such a happening until thirty years later: the final installment of Harry Potter.



Now I do recognize that there are some people out there that just don't 'get it.' But for those of you who are true lovers of Hogwarts Tales, you will undoubtedly understand what all the hoopla was about.



With camera in hand, I headed to the nearest Border's Book Store and awaited my turn at purchasing the books [I always buy two - one for me and one for the kids at my former school] I had requested months earlier on the 'wait' list.



It was a long evening of waiting, but at the stroke of midnight, I stood in line with 100's of others, patiently knowing that soon the questions uppermost in our minds, would be answered!



It wasn't easy, but before I 'cracked' the book open, I made a conscious decision to reread the previous six books, before starting on the final episode. There are so many characters and events to remember, I knew I would enjoy the last book much more if I wasn't trying to recall lost events. I was right!



Of course I won't divulge any information, but I really liked how J.K. Rowlings ended the series. No, this is not Lord of the Rings. But as an educator for life, you have to be thrilled that someone was able to create an intricate story aimed at kids!

Tribute to a Gentle-man

My father died August 18. At the age of almost 91, his body just couldn't keep going, even though his mind appeared to be as vibrant as ever.

There are some people in this world who don't have to say much to be heard. Dad was one of these folks. When he spoke, people listened. He would give his opinion when asked, offer advise when asked, and believe in the goodness of others until they proved differently.

When my son, Jim was about six years old, I remember him asking, "Why is Grandpa so smart?" The answer: he read. Everything.

Growing up during the Depression at the start of World War I in Southwest Missouri [Ozark country], with many mouths to feed in the family and not much money, life was not easy. Dad talked about being in eleven different school during twelve years of schooling, yet somehow he was able to get a good education.

Occasionally, he would allude to adventures after graduating from high school: hitchhiking to California, working in the forestry service with the CCC [Civilian Conservation Corps], then serving in Africa and Sicily during World War II. His stories were funny, poignant and always worth hearing again, yet never too personal.

There was no money for college once he got home, but the drive for life-long learning was ever-present throughout his life.

Dad was truly respected as a 'gentle man', a person with strength of character and great honor. A humble man whose spirit touched the lives of more people than he probably ever realized. He will be missed, but not forgotten.