Russ,

I thank you for your kind words. I certainly hope that I am helping the kids. I have been teaching for thirteen years and I must say it has been quite a journey. I've learned more about myself, others and life from the many groups of 13 year kids that been put under my care.

As a human being I believe I pale in comparison to you. You walked into a disaster and said: "I'm here to pick up the pieces." and you did. What you did was remarkable. I don't know how you could work in an environment where you knew at any given moment several tons of concrete could collapse on you. But you did. You are a hero to us all, a living testament to courage, determination, and dedication. I can only pray that I will someday have the strength of character that defines yours.

May God bless you Russ.

Greg