Counting blessings

One of best parts of journalism is the opportunity to meet people and write their stories.

In my opinion, you just can't beat it.

Telling other people's stories provides an opportunity to see new faces every day, broaden your horizons and, best of all, make new friends.

I had the chance Tuesday night to spend time with historian Bernie Krebs, along with wife Jane and her dad, Gary Solt, all of Jim Thorpe. Wonderful people.

Bernie grew up on West Broadway and is impassioned about old tales of Carbon County.

He works at Mack Trucks during the day. But at night and on weekends, he hunts "objet d'art" of old Chunk. He's even more intent on doing so after a serious bout with cancer.

Bernie showed me his amazing collection. He and Pop Gary also offered to take me on a future hike to the former Glen Onoko site of Hotel Wahnetah. Count me in!

On Monday, friend Bill Harleman of Hometown, president of the Lansford Historical Society, invited me to meet James Zanders, a retired Lehighton gentleman.

I couldn't wait to meet this guy. I was fascinated.

Why?

Well, Zanders was cleaning out his father-in-law's house and found an old engraved band leader's baton made for legendary Tommy Dorsey.

In today's market, that baton is worth a bundle. Yet Zanders decided to part with it and donate it to the town museum for the enjoyment of all.

Any person who'd do such a magnanimous thing is somebody I want to meet. I want to find out what makes him tick.

Turns out Zanders, a former employee of Lehighton borough, is a widower with a heart of gold.

I learned more about his background and family. He told me his grandmother was a Serfass from Bowmanstown. By coincidence, my grandmother was a Serfass from Bowmanstown. Obviously, we're related, something to pursue the next time I see him.

Finally, friend Rob Kowatch of Mahoning Valley gave me an early Christmas present.

Rob does the antiques circuit. In his travels, he came across the 1953 "Berks County Story," a local history textbook once used at Earl Township School District.

Rob knows I enjoy such things and so he saved it until he saw me. Rob is thoughtful that way; another good guy.

The 160-page hardcover is loaded with information. I can't put it down.

I'm getting a sound, fundamental, 1950s education in everything from "The Pretzel Capital of the World" to "Slavery in Berks County."

It's fun, and I'd never knock a 1950s education. We'd do well in many ways to return.

Mostly, though, I'm appreciating blessings of people who inspire.

I realize I'm surrounded by wonderful human beings. I'm grateful to them and excited and hopeful about meeting many more.

Of course, I'm thankful all year long, not just on Thanksgiving. But this is a good week to say so.

Thanks to all who take time to read this column and those who send letters and emails.

You're important to me, and I value your friendship.

Hope you had a good Gobble Day. Enjoy the leftovers, and don't eat too much pumpkin pie.