“Real Talk” Early last year, I got away on a “fellas” trip to Vegas. It was my first trip there in at least twenty years and will likely be my...

“Transitions” I love this time of year. The transition from spring to full-on summer, the longer days, and the permission I give myself to eat more ice cream. One of...

“NEW Math” In my mother’s house, “homework time” was a time to limit distractions and focus on the work at hand. I had a fairly typical work desk in my...

“Life’s Principles” When I committed to writing these First Friday messages, I did so with the goal of sharing many of the issues that I wrestle with in trying to...

“Dirty Little Secret” Whenever I get the chance to meet current students at my alma mater or those considering that fine school in Charlottesville, I have to work on keeping...

“You Did It!” Moving here in late summer of 2021, my wife and I were consumed with trying to find the right community for our family. We were leaving a...

A timeline of milestones by African-Americans in the YMCA 1850 – 1900 The first YMCA created by the black community began less than two years after Thomas Sullivan bought the...

“…For ALL.” I pray that each of you have welcomed the new year blessed and refreshed after spending quality time with friends and family. In our household, I was happy...

Kris Kringle As you all know, I’m the proud father of a beautiful little girl who continually amazes and impresses us with every breath and step she takes. She’s a...

BIG Little Brother I mentioned a few months ago that I recently visited with my brother, Aaron, in Louisiana. There are almost 11 years between us and, as you might...