Friendships Fuel Gratitude
Fred and Cuqui Sanchez have been friends of mine since 1997. They have four adult children and several grandchildren. Our friendship has endured through the beginning and closing of a bilingual church, supporting one another through trials and tribulations, and sharing many joyful moments. This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending their retirement […]
The Joy FM- 88.1…. Share-A-Thon 2026
For the past 19 years, since moving to Florida from New York, I’ve listened to The JOY FM. It’s more than just a radio station-it’s a community of caring people, biblical messages, heartfelt real-life stories, practical advice for difficult situations, and, last but not least, wonderful Christian music that glorifies God. The JOY FM has […]
Making Heaven Crowded: Tampa/Gainesville, FL
Making Heaven Crowded (MHC) is a Christian evangelism and missions organization based in Tampa, Florida. We’re a group of disciples passionate about reaching people with the Gospel and equipping others to confidently share their faith. We use practical outreach-such as serving meals, community events, and intentional conversations-as a way to build genuine relationships and introduce […]
REMEMBERING 9/11
I vividly recall watching a square television-not a flatscreen, mind you!-when the first World Trade Center was struck by the pilot driven by evil intentions. At that time, my father, Joseph, was receiving chemotherapy for his cancer. The only moment I ever witnessed him cry was when his youngest sister, Barbara, passed away from cancer. […]
What ‘ Buckeyes’ football’ 🏈 Means to Me
For 18 years, I’ve followed the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. When I first started, I barely knew anything about college football, but my friends from Ohio welcomed me into this incredible sports community. Here’s what the Buckeyes symbolize for me: **B: Brotherhood** – Team members consistently support one another, both on and off the […]
Dolly Parton Tribute
I never had the privilege of meeting Dolly Parton during my time in Nashville over 22 years ago. Watching various television specials highlighting her positive impact on millions made me reflect on how she has used her celebrity and wealth to make a difference in the world. Despite her fame and billionaire status, she has […]
Anxiety Running Rampant
In the past week of this new school year, I’ve encountered several middle schoolers overwhelmed by anxiety. In various situations, I felt it necessary to intervene or ensure that a student was referred to a mental health facility for their safety. This raises an important question: why is anxiety so prevalent among young people today? […]
The Value of School Counselors Worldwide
School counseling began in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emerging from the vocational guidance movement that was a response to the Industrial Revolution. Trailblazers like Jesse B. Davis in 1907 and Frank Parsons in 1908 pioneered career and job placement guidance, aiming to assist students in making the transition […]
Happy 21st birthday to Liana Nesser
Happy 21st birthday, Liana Nesser! It’s incredible how quickly time passes. It feels like just yesterday when your dad called to tell Grandma Celia about your arrival on your grandfather’s birthday, all without being induced. You truly are a miracle, destined to fulfill God’s purpose. Enjoy your final year of nursing school at UF, and […]
A Tribute to Teachers
Having spent over 19 years in the classroom, I’ve taught in some of the toughest schools across America. For two of those years, I was at Azalea Middle School in St. Petersburg, Florida, which was once notorious for its poor performance and discipline issues. Teachers were often physically pushed aside in the hallways, and many […]