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Do my kids count?

If this happens - the revolution begins in Charlotte, NC where we taxpayers paid for a new uptown arena for the "Bobcats." It replaces a building only 15 years old.

Today's Charlotte Observer KEN GARFIELD Religion Editor The Comeback Kid did it. Eight years after starting classes while an NFL quarterback, Frank Reich graduated from seminary last weekend. If that's not achievement enough, how about this: He earned his Master of Divinity degree from Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte while also serving as its president for the past two years. He's been so engrossed in his work as both student and chief administrator, he had no time or energy left to attend this weekend's Celebration of Champions reunion of his old team, the Buffalo Bills. "It's like I had my game face on," Reich said. Only now, the game's changed. Reich, 43, has become a fixture in Charlotte's faith community, leading RTS on Carmel Road and speaking frequently to church and other groups. And yet for all his achievements in ministry, he can't escape his past as the Carolina Panthers' first starting quarterback, a longtime backup to Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly in Buffalo and the answer to a great question for a bar bet: What quarterback led the greatest comebacks in NCAA and NFL history? The answer: Reich, with the University of Maryland and then the Buffalo Bills. There was a time after football when Reich sought to dodge his past -- when his new direction made it tough to answer yet another question about the NFL and comebacks. But now, done with his studies and immersed in his work as a seminary president, he's comfortable with that other life. He relishes the football memories and friendships. And through his seasons as a quarterback, he embraces what he calls "a genuine bridge-building opportunity." Now when he preaches about teamwork, effort and never giving up, he's got a few real-life illustrations to back it up. Though he's not attending this weekend's Celebration of Champions in Buffalo, he still got a chance to share his two lives -- and to preach a little -- in a story about him on the Bills' Web site: "What I have found is, I shouldn't run away from these past stories. But the art of it is: How do I transition from these stories and really connect with people? I want to do that for the right reasons in order to give a more important message. And that's what I try to do."

That's my point. I can understand the english the good people of Buffalo speak...

My mortgage is with HSBC and I called to inquire about some payment options. I was sent to India to the HSBC call center. It took me 10 minutes to understand the customer service rep and another 10 to get the information I needed. With the economy of WNY doing so poorly, wouldn't a call center be welcomed? I am amazed at how these companies think saving a couple of bucks moving jobs to India is going to help the stock price. I was so frustrated I hung up. How's that for customer service? And thank you HSBC - you made my decision to refinance my loan with someone else very easy.

C'mon! Give the man some props. When you are at the stadium this weekend watching the Comeback highlight tape take 10 seconds and ask God to give Frank guidance in his new job as President of his seminary. Your thoughts and prayers he'll appreciate more than wanting his name on the Wall of Fame.

Do you really need more examples?

Remember in 89 the Bills were 3-2 and just lost to the Colts when Kelly was injured and started the Bickering Bills. Jim came out in the press and singled out House Ballard for not picking up a blitzer and his injury. Frank came in and won that MNF game against a very good Rams team (they played in the NFC championship game). An interesting side note - Frank hit his passing hand and jammed a finger on Kevin Greene's helmet in the first quarter. His finger swelled and made throwing difficult. He was really off on his throws and the crowd got on him. He never complained and kept pressing on and won the game.

Sorry - but that's a crap reply. Go back and look at the game film - especially the two zingers to Andre Reed for touchdowns.

And he's such a humble guy I doubt he'd accept that honor if it was bestowed upon him. Frank might have been a "career backup" but he also could have left the Bills for a starting job during the early 90's. He might not be wall material, but if you have sons, you want them to grow up and act like Frank Reich.

He's a friend of mine...

1) Why did you move out of Buffalo? Left in 1989 for college then a decent paying job. 2) Where did you go? Charlotte, NC 3) How does your new home compare to Buffalo? Newer home and I'm not getting killed in taxes 4) If the econonmy and job market were stable would you move back? Nope. I miss the food and people, but you can't beat the weather and cost of living down here. 5) What suggestions to you have to improve the quality of life here? hahaha I could write a book! Start with a new waterfront and use Niagara Falls and the casinos as a tourist destination. Get rid of all the waste in government (hello democrats!) and start marketing the region nationally with a positive spin.

A Big YES from me, but I'm baised...

Danny - the owner has a ton of autographed stuff from his days as a Hooters manager. His wife told him he needed a place to store them - so he decorated the bar. Trust me - he is gearing up for football season. You'll see more Bills stuff on the walls soon.

I returned from a trip to New Jersey to visit the Father-in-law. Pennsylvania drivers are the worst. They sit in the left hand lane going 66 mph trying to pass a semi truck and cause bottle necks. Try passing a PA driver and watch them find the gas petal and speed up. UGH!

Yeah they are keeping the "Buffalo" theme because its a cash cow at Tavern on the Tracks. I have Panthers season tickets too, but with two little ones, I prefer watching the Bills on a Sunday afternoon.

I spoke with the Danny, the owner of the new Fort Mill Tavern on Highway 160 in Fort Mill. He was a partner at Tavern on the Tracks in Charlotte, but sold to have his own bar. He is getting some big screen TV's and Labatt's on tap for the fall. The menu is great - beef on Wick, fish fry and of course great wings. I will post more information before pre-season. IF you are a snow bird, it's right of interstate 77, exit 85 in South Carolina.

I can't sit through an entire show. Makes me count my blessings...

Never been to one. Some of my buddies think I'm nuts but why pay a woman money for something you can't have?

Shameless Plug for the ACC Basketball Handbook.

Yep. I posted about him after week 1 of NFLE. Seems like a kid wih a big upside. I hope he makes it.

That was one of the best thought out posts I've seen on this board. Bravo! And I commend you and your wife for NOT having kids for the sake of having them.

DING DING - we have a winner!

I will give you credit for going through with the pregancy, but geez man two kids with two mothers?