Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Stephanie Campbell, Kansas City, Missouri — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 01:23:56 GMT

Today I am watching a story on Dateline NBC with Stone Phillips. It was Friday night. The subject of the show is on Friday night lights and high school football. It didn’t take long after a girl was interviewed about her dream of being a cheerleader. She said she has had this dream since she was 5 years old. The focus quickly shifted to the field and the “guys” out there. The guy interviewed? The backup quarterback. He said he had a similar dream since he was 5. It was as if no one could ever dream that women might have the dream to play instead of cheer. So, this is not about some gals going out to learn the game of football but like most every guy that has ever dreamed of glory on Friday night, it’s about the young women who has that same dream. And if you don’t think there are enough women out there with that dream… currently there are an estimated 6,000 women playing full contact football in the US. And yes, each one of them had these dreams when they were young. And one more thing to think about. This interest from women to play this sport is with relativity no marketing or advertising. So, we need to ask ourselves… How many more dreams could be fulfilled if America knew that women play this wonderful sport just the like the guys and think of the life lessons that guys and men have known if women could learn them too. Not all girls are born to cheer. Many want to play! Imagine that?

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Andy Meadors, Amarillo Texas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:07:16 GMT

Well played, Stone. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the story on Dateline. Pampa is a great town with a bunch of amazing people living in it. It has its' own version of a Texas accent, its' own famous little diner (Coney Island Cafe) and its' own sense of style. I enjoy visiting and have many close friends who came out of Pampa. I thought you might have mentioned that the Miami Dolphins' own Zach Thomas is from Pampa and also played for the Harvesters in his high school days. No such luck, but it was really all about those great kids who are playing and cheering now. God bless the late Coach Cav...and good luck to his son. Me, I am a former Amarillo Golden Sandstorm and I would be showing a disservice to my alma mater if I did not say, "Go Sandies, " before ending this entry. At any rate, good job, Mr. Phillips...and welcome back to the great state of Texas.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Connie — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:07:44 GMT

The Pride of Pampa was very inspirational. I want to thank Mr Phillips for this story. It showed winning is not everything that their are important things like family and God. The coach Andy Cavalier taught his team valuable lessons like good sportsmenship and caring about others. The coach sent his team to the house the player that lost his father and this gave the player joy in a time of sadness. Winning was the frosting on the cake after all the other things.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

John Adams, Chicago, IL. — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:09:26 GMT

My Man Stone,
I just caught the end of your football story tonight and I can see why it was your favorite story. Not all great endings end up in storybooks and fairytails. They can become real life. I've been watching you for years with your many co-hosts. That having been said, what really won you over for me tonight, on personal level, was when you replied 'Yee Haw'! when the coach responded to your question about what it really meant to him (that first memorable night)! I got it but am not quite sure how many others did, if you know what I mean.

U B The Man, dude. And I will forever retain the spirit of youth. I hope you do the same.

Happy New Year Brother
John Adams
EX, Alpha Sigma, Zeta Xi, California State University, Northridge, CA.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

John Adams, Chicago, IL. — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:10:13 GMT

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Helen Caldwell Gillespie, Corpus Christi, Texas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:12:41 GMT

Tonight's story brought back wonderful memories of high school football and all the other programs that make the friday night experience one of the best! I was a member of the marching band and to this day I feel that the half time show demonstrates some of the best moves on the field! Count me one of the proud Hustlin' Hornets from Flour Bluff High School, Class of 1966!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dan Dunn, Grand Rapids Michigan — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:14:35 GMT

Friday night in Michigan (or any other place for that matter) is no different than Texas. Not much mystery about it. Parents spending time with their kids, and enjoying the great outdoors. I really would hope that the promoscuity that the tv protrays is just that, TV. Some parents actually pay attention to where their kids are, and what they are doing. And guess what... it would be a refreshing change if tv could protray what life is really like.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Sherri from Minnesota — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:16:36 GMT

This segment was so touching. I would never have guessed that watching a show about a high school team from Texas would be so great. Thank you to Stone Phillips who covered all aspects of the lives in this town. I laughed and cried. The struggles of setting priorities was very real and very cool. Thanks for sharing this story!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Sally Wright, Pendleton, Indiana — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:22:30 GMT

Just watched the "Friday Night Lights" segment--it SO made the link between Pampa, TX and most other middle Indiana sports towns. My husband & I teach at a mid-size school in Central Indiana, where, of course, basketball is probably a bit bigger than football, but it's still a town that supports its school, its athletes, and its activities. Our daughter cheered & played softball here & our son plays basketball & baseball, & my husband coaches. The entire community revolves around school activities, especially sports. Football Homecoming week is amazing with the entire town's streets being closed down for our floats and 100+ entries. Basketball sectional week is so much fun with students & teachers dressing up every day in a different "theme," and decorating door contests, etc. I truly enjoyed watching this segment (while my husband & son are at a basketball game--go figure!), because the coach seems to be a very impressive young man who has his priorites in line, and the players seem to be typical kids with hopes & dreams that many kids have. Good luck to Pampa in the future.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Jeanne Altman — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:29:19 GMT

Great story, Stone Phillips! I'm a grandma from southern Missouri who recognizes each of those players (tho the faces and names are different) and am crazy about the cheerleaders. Especially my grand-daughter who is one. Our team went to state championships and won this year. The town is so excited about it that basketball is still on the back burner.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

jeff manion — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:31:02 GMT

hey whats up with the guy driving with his arm in a sling. isnt that illegal? his injury wasnt enough? are looking for a car crash? what about other people on the road. no concern for their safety? ever hear of "two hands on the wheel"?
idiots

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Joyce Dietz — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:53:12 GMT

Really enjoyed your program tonight. It was special to me because I graduated from high school with Denny Cavalier. He was a great sportsman in high school in all sports but even then he loved his football.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Terry Alan, Odessa, Texas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:56:12 GMT

I always Stone's stories and this one is one of his best. Thanks for capturing the essence of the game and everything that evolves around it. You see, I maintain the MojoLand.net website that features the Odessa Permian Panthers of Friday Night Lights fame. The dateline story on Pampa was well organized and kept the viewer interest at all times. Thanks for the continued great reporting.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Ann C., Pampa, TX — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 02:59:29 GMT

The "Pride of Pampa" is the band, not the football team. The football team is known as the "Fighting Harvesters"--look on the press box! The band has been known as the "Pride of Pampa" since 1960. As a "Pride of Pampa" band member, I was very offended to think that the football team was given an honor that each band since 1960 has worked so very hard to earn.

What about the "Fighting Harvesters" that have gone on and played professional football? How about the one that has a champioonship ring? No mention of them in this report tonight.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Caitlin Hampton, Pampa, TX — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 03:00:17 GMT

Great story Mr. Phillips! I am one of the trainers that belongs to the Pampa Harvester Sports Program. I must say that everyday I spent with those guys brought me closer to them. They are a WONDERFUL,crazy,outgoing,smart,funny group of people to hang out with and be around every single day. Brett Ferrell is a great quarterback and I wish that he could have played alot more than he did because he loved playing football. Casey is in my grade and he is also a great quarterback and learned alot from Ferrell(thats what we call him).I love these guys to death and I'm going to miss them when they leave. Great season guys!!!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dewayne Glover — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 03:09:48 GMT

Stone,
I graduated from Pampa and was a Harvester for four years and had many awards from the game. It brought back so many memories and emotions, I still love the game and miss playing. The year was 1971. I have two great son and they enjoyed the same great feeling that I still have. Thanks for the chance to relive the memories.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Debbie H. ,Texas City, Tx — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 03:11:21 GMT

Great story tonight,Stone Phillips! Keep the great stories coming. I'm here in your home town of Texas City, Tx, home of the fighting Stingarees! Just a FYI, TC could have gone to state this yr, but lost; and our rival team, Lamarque Cougars went to state and won state Champs!!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Glenda, Rose Hill, KS — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 03:21:55 GMT

Thank you Mr. Stone for a wonderful job well done. I was moved to tears. I can relate to the quarterback who was injured and his family. My son (only 7th grade) got hurt in the second game this past Fall and out the entire season. He felt bad because it is a sport he likes to play. Watching this show reminds me of our high school Friday night football games. Good luck to the Pampa Harvesters.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dina G, Denver, Co — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 03:25:55 GMT

Stone, I really enjoyed your story.
My father played for Pampa. He graduated in 1950 and was the Fighting Harvesters quarterback. Pampa won the district championship that year. He was voted MVP, selected 2nd team All- District, played in the Oil Bowl (25 players from Texas and 25 from Oklahoma) and received a full ride scholarship to Sul Ross University.
The Bell that was shown on the show was purchased by the Harvester Football Alumni and presented to the school about 10 years ago.
When ever we visited Pampa when I was a kid we were introduced around town and all of the adults knew my dad and his family.
I enjoyed seeing some real live “Friday Night Lights” and remembering the time, as a young child, I attended the McLean, TX football game to watch my cousin play.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Derrell DeLoach, Pampa, TX — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 03:51:38 GMT

Stone:

I want to thank you for a GREAT story concerning the "Fighting Harvester" football team on Dateline tonight. Your depiction of Pampa was outstanding. After watching your report, I am proud of our town, proud of our children and proud of our school district. Coach Cavalier and his fine staff are positively impacting our students for a lifetime. I can assure you, the community of Pampa is blessed and grateful to have a man like Coach Cavalier working with our young men. Coach Cavalier and his fine staff are preparing our young men to be successful while playing the game of life. There is no doubt in my mind that the lessons taught to these young men will impact them in a positive manner throughout their adult life. In choosing to broadcast this story, you have lifted the spirits of many. Along with many in the Texas Panhandle and specifically in the community of Pampa, we thank you and your excellent staff for a heartwarming story. You are welcome to come back to Pampa for a visit ANYTIME. God bless you and God bless the Pampa Harvesters.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Toni Greenwood Helton — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 04:14:25 GMT

Stone, I was totally shocked when I saw the story about my high school! I graduated from PHS in 1982 and my brother graduated in 1981(he was on the varsity football team when Danny Palmer was coach). I really enjoyed the story. It made me glow with pride and remember the good ole days. Pampa has been through some hard times. The oil industry went belly up for a while. It looks like Pampa has bounced back once again in true texas style. I was very impressed with the coach and what he is teaching the young men of our socieity. Pampa deserves this and looks like they have worked hard for it. YEAH PAMPA!! GO HARVESTERS! I am one proud former PAMPA HARVESTER.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Tanisha Couts, Camden, SC — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 04:21:41 GMT

Tonight I watched Stone Phillips give a report on Friday Night Lights and a town called Pampa. Much thanks goes out to him and the producers of Dateline. It is refreshing to turn on the news and not have to hear about the war, the president, or any other problems that are surrounding the world. Thank-you for a nice breather. Good luck and God bless those Fighting Harvesters. I come from a small town as well, and I know the feeling of a friday night.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Gary Shaw, Atascadero California — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 04:33:57 GMT

While I understand the emotion behind the story, the idea that football was "from God to teach us how to deal with life" is such utter lunacy that it only serves to show how far sports zealots will go to justify their (disproportionate?) passion for something that's just a silly game. Touching story, yes, but whoa, give us a break...lay on the couch and watch all the football/whatever you want, or go out and bash people around for a ball and imagine it's of some importance if you want, but teaching us about life? Sheesh.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

J.C Darwin — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 04:54:31 GMT

Football is overrated. The emphasis needs to be on education and not the Friday night lights.
Pampa sounds like any regular small town including the towns retard. God loves you.. give me a break.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Susan Bromlow, Pampa, TX — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 05:02:11 GMT

Mr. Phillips:

Dateline did a great job showing the heart and soul of our community. As a high school teacher here in Pampa, I know you witnessed that we truly have the students' best interests at heart. Academics are a huge priority, but so is teaching our kids how to be positive, responsible members of a community. They learn this by being a part of a disciplined group--whether it's football, band, choir, Spanish club, or yearbook! Building character and responsibility is much more important than winning or losing. As Dennis Cavalier (Andy's dad) said, "Win without bragging; lose without excuses." I am PROUD TO BE A HARVESTER and it touches my heart that so many people have seen how wonderful our community is in supporting our youth! "Ya'll" come back to Pampa anytime! (Pampa ISD's website is www.pampaisd.net for anyone who would like to take a look!)

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Sat, 30 Dec 2006 05:06:29 GMT

GREAT Dateline - very heartfelt and different. I am a huge fan of Friday Night Lights and a "football mom" myself. Way to go, Stone!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Ryan Clauson, Temecula, California — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 05:13:01 GMT

Mr Phillips,

That was a great positive story with all the negitive going on in the worl today. Your show made my day! Its great to see so many involved parents. Dateline should do more of these uplifting storys as much as they can. Thanks again,

Ryan Clauson

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Consuelo Hacker, New York City, NY — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 05:25:05 GMT

It was great to come home from a hard day's work and unexpectedly see my hometown's football team on Dateline. It took me back to Friday nights in that stadium cheering and dancing to the marching band. I'm lucky to have that experience. Go Harvesters!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Terry Baird Wichita Falls, Texas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 05:34:13 GMT

Being from Texas and having relatives from Pampa, I thought this was an excellent story of what football should be about. I was pleased with the way Texans really conduct themselves instead of the negative way we are portrayed in movies and the media. My hats of to Stone Phillips and Dateline for such an interesting and positive story.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Pete Cunningham, Norman, Oklahoma — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 05:37:46 GMT

Mr. Phillips, what a great story. Over the years the Haversters have always just like any other schools, to be the best of the best and do it with pride. As a pass subsitute teacher at Pampa High School, it was good to see the Harverster again. "GO HARVESTER". Just one note to some of the negative remarks. The teachers and staff with Pampa Independent School District are only a tool, it is the student body themself to use the tools that is given to them. With that being said the student body is the "Pride of the Fighting Haversters". Best of luck to the Haversters on up comeing events. Like I always said to the students, remember to have FUN in everything you do, and do the best that you can.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Krista Hughes, Pampa, Texas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 05:45:46 GMT

Stone and his staff did an excellent job of showing how Texas high school football can have a positive influence on the students, school and community. I am very proud of our students. They were poised and articulate in their interviews and were outstanding representatives of PHS. There is much more to Pampa High School than athletic participation. The bottom line is that we support our kids in whatever they endeavor and they never cease to make us proud.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Rob — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 05:48:50 GMT

Great Job Mr. Phillips!! The community of Pampa as well as the Football program is well deserving of this. It shows that athletics is not all about winning and portrayed what the most important things in life really are.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Matt Rains, Enid, Oklahoma — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 06:43:21 GMT

Thankyou Dateline for taking the time to put this together. Your portrayal of Pampa (community, coaches, parents, and students) was very accurate. Although I did not play football while in high school, my family was at almost every game. I will always have the memories of cheering on the Harvesters. The Cavaliers are truly a wonderful family and we are very blessed to have them in Pampa. My wife and I currently live in Oklahoma and don't know if we'll ever have the opportunity to move back to Pampa...regardless, we'll always be Harvesters!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Eric Clarkson, Kansas City, Missouri — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 06:51:30 GMT

Great job! A completely shameless plug for "Friday Night Lights" veiled as a heartwarming story about one town's (dysfunctional) love for football. A better story might be to ask why we invest so much time and money to apply so much pressure to win at such a young age?
A 16-year-old sophomore is responsible for shouldering the image of Pampa on the gridiron? Ridiculous.
Why do we televise high school football games? What's next? Televising Pop Warner games?
Why are children being used as gladiators for parents to try and live/succeed vicariously through them?
These kids should be playing football for FUN, not for the benefit of sponsors, local TV affiliates and those older than them who take the sport way too seriously.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Michael Kelting, Wichita, Kansas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 07:12:25 GMT

I had the privilege of working with Andy Cavalier's father, Dennis, at Wichita High School Southeast before he moved to Pampa. One year his Southeast team was highly ranked in the state, and expected to go deep into the play-offs, perhaps all the way to a state championship. They were scheduled to face winless Wichita West in district play, and I asked Dennis how he got his kids ready for a game like this. "I'd rather not even play the game", he said. "It doesn't do us any good, and it certainly doesn't do their kids any good."
The half-time score was 35-0. Doing everything a coach can ethically do to control the outcome, that was the final score as well. The West players streamed across the field to shake Coach Cavalier's hand, for they realized the score could have been almost any number he had picked, but he had been merciful, and in so doing showed that he cared about the opponent's players' feelings as well as those of his own.
As I watched Friday's program, I sensed that Andy's coaching priorities would make Dennis proud. He is indeed the inheritor of his father's legacy.
Continued good luck to you, Coach Cavalier. . .and Go Harvesters!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Brian C. Anderson, Schaumburg, Illinois — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 07:12:35 GMT

Stone, after watching the show on Pampa football I was curious to read your blog to see if you would comment on your football playing days in high school in St. Louis and at Yale. Sure enough you did and even mentioned a high school teammate of mine, Mike Southworth. I was a junior and Mike was a senior playing for Webster Groves. You were a senior playing for Parkway West. If you remember we beat you guys pretty good in the varsity game on a Saturday back in 1972 at Webster. Our coach told us before the game you were the only person we really had to worry about and he was right. You were a very good quarterback. On the following Monday, Webster Groves junior varsity played Parkway West's junior varsity at Parkway's home field. Or so we thought. After the game was over and we had lost (which at the time was the first time Webster had ever lost a JV game) our coach told us that in reality we were playing the varsity team because your coach was so mad at the way your team played on Saturday. He pretended he didn't know until after the game. Actually we would have won if not for the rule that at that time you could not advance a fumble in high school football which one of our players did for a touchdown which was called back. Ah the good ole days. Good luck Stone and go Rams and Cards. Say Hi to Russ Mitchell for me.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Cathy, Waco, TX — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 07:24:26 GMT

Of all the episodes to miss... i missed this one. Will it air again??? I used to live in Amarillo and had a couple of friends in Pampa. Pampa is one of the friendliest towns I have been in and I was fortunate enough to attend one of their football games back in the mid 80's and they do LOVE their football. From reading the story I can tell Stone did a wonderful job!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

W.D.Dries, Chehalis, WA — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 07:29:05 GMT

Stone,
I feel that we must forgive poor Gary from Atascadero as he vegetates with his XBox, but I am repulsed by the comments by J. C. Darwin who is so insensitive to the team's trainer. Sheesh!! is right. He/she should be so fortunate to experience the love and admiration of a team, school and citizens of a town like Pampa.
I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation. It's a testimony to the love and conviction of a young coach for his team, and their respect for him. We are daily exposed to the 'trashy' side of TV; this show was a breath of fresh air (Texas air!)

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Joe Monteith, Topeka, Kansas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 08:06:55 GMT

Mr Phillips and the Staff of Dateline.

Great Show!!! Being a Friday Night Lights Fan I found it exceptional. It seemed to me to be about the True Heart of America, as is Friday Night Lights.

Nice to see something about reality of people living, working and playing in our great nation.

Do more of this type of show, PLEASE!

Regards

Joe Monteith
Topeka, KS.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Gary Shaw, Atascadero California — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 08:09:48 GMT

Hey, WD, does this mean you're buying me an xbox? Thanks but no thanks, I have no use for one. Such is the football mentality, apparently, that you can't tolerate anyone who doesn't think your way so you have to attack. Some of us think there are better ways to teach people the right way to live than the football mentality. I had enough bozo high school coaches who thought sports were the meaning of life, you should get together with them and watch the game, lay in some chips and beer, I'm sure you'd enjoy it. That's better exercise than an xbox...isn't it?
I did think it was a nice story, up to the point where "God put football here to teach us about life" or some similar ridiculousness. Maybe he put xboxes here for that too, makes about as much sense.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dawn Streeter — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 13:25:25 GMT

Stone,
Thank you, thank you, thank you on the wonderful story about the Pampa Harvesters!! Having lived & worked in the Pampa area years ago, it was almost like being home. Our daughter was born in Pampa in the late 80's. I kept scanning the crowd to see if there was anyone I recognized, but to no such luck. Our heart goes out to Chris Campbell & his family over the loss of his dad, not something one wishes on anyone. I never competed on sports while in high school, but allow my children to, if they want to! I think that sports teaches them to think about someone other than themselves...remember...there is no 'I' in T-E-A-M!! Thanks again for the wonderful show...how about more 'feel good' articles just like this one?

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Sandra Wright, Seattle WA — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 15:32:35 GMT

Thank you Stone for bring such a heartwarming story from Pampa Texas to our living rooms across America. I had returned to Pampa to care for my ailing mother when the NBC crew arrived in town to begin their week-long stay filming "Pride of Pampa". I couldn't attend any of the games while staying in Pampa but could hear the announcer from the press box, the roar of the crowd, the clanging of the bell and the blasts of the airhorns as my parents home is within sight of Pampa High School. What a treat to see the game and the story behind the story on NBC Dateline.

Returning to Pampa for three months after living in the the "big city" for forty years was like stepping into the past. I had forgotten the wonderful feeling on belonging to a small town community. The high scool band begins practice every morning on the football field at 8 am and can be heard from one side of town to the other. When the "Friday Night Lights" from the athletic field are turned on, you can see them for miles across the herizon. Football season has arrived! The first game was the talk of the town. Everyone had on Fighting Harvesters T-shirts or Harvester booster club shirts. Booster Club breakfast Friday mornings to support the team. Prayers on Sunday morning for the safety of the team in churches across town... I had forgotten all of this.

Returning to Pampa brought back so many memories as my dad "Coach Woldt" had taught school in Pampa; coached football, baseball, and golf; scouted and was a referee at many basketball games and in his retirement, announced plays from the press box during football games. He still attends all of the home games and a few out of towners. So you can see that sports of all kinds had been a big part of my childhood.

One weekend while I was in Texas, my husband and I took an afternoon drive northeast of Pampa through Miami to Canadian. When we drove through Miami, there was not a soul to be seen. We drove all over town and didn't hear one lawn mower, see one person, not one car, total silence... it was like something had transported every being in town to some other place. As we were leaving town, we saw three people standing beside the road and stopped to ask was was going on? Had the town been evacuated??? The people laughed and said they thought that Texas Tec was playing the Aggies on TV. That gives you a real good idea what football means in Texas. Everyone in town was home watching their favorite football teams on TV.

Thank you again for helping me memember the good old days.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Ken, Sioux Falls SD — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 16:03:35 GMT

Thank you Dateline NBC and Stone. We had plans last night to watch the movie Barn Yard as a family but once we started watching Pampa we couldn't switch to the DVD. So often Dataline has been turning to "investigations" that our family can not watch together but last night was an exception.

We have 4 children all under the age of 10 and they enjoyed the program throughly. We even used it as a learning moment on what is important in life. Helping and caring for others, there are things more important than winning and the love of families for eachother.

Thank you and please create more programs like this... Ken

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Morris & Mary Heitschmidt, McPherson, Kansas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 18:29:07 GMT

Thank you Stone Phillips for pressuring your bosses to film "Pride of Pampa". We thought it was a wonderful story. Of course, we could be prejudiced because Andy Cavalier is our Grandson!! His mother, Kathy, who you interviewed, is our daughter. Anyway...you can imagine how proud we are of Andy, and how at times I had a lump in my throat during the program. Thanks again...and keep up the good work.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Danielle Andreassi — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 19:50:18 GMT

Thanks Stone and Thank you for focusing the importance that it takes many members of the the team,and just who those team members are that make up a TEAM, and thanks for not leaving out a very special member of that team, Trent Loter. It makes those of us touched with disabilities have hope, that not all schools, coaches, administrators and school districts discriminate against the disabled just because they were born different, but special. I am sure that every year when Trent Loter shows up in that locker room he IS beaming with pride, and if he wasn't there the team would not be complete. Thank you Coach Cavalier for placing such importance on Trents importance to your team as it shows that he has a wonderful place with the Harversters and the Team could not get by without him. I am the mother of a son with Fragile X Syndrome who was also supposed to be the part of his high school football team until he graduated just this past June 2006, he is 22. He LOVES sports and LOVES his football, but unlike Trent the coaches and the administration of his high school found everyway possible to exclude him from team pictures, uniforms and awards due him. AJ would still love to like Trent be with his high school team and be cheering them on, but the coaches, administrators and school district just did not seem to have a heart not even the size of Texas, just no heart at all! You have a great thing going Coach Cavalier. I too went back to my son's school, my old alma mater and coached girls field hockey, so it really hurts when your child is hurt in places you can't explain and ways you can't fix, at a place you were so proud to be from, your old high school. Congrats to you Coach, your father would me more than proud of you

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dottie Fraser, Amarillo, Texas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 20:16:02 GMT

Thank you for the great portrayal of Pampa. My husband, our two older children and I graduated from Pampa High School. We recently made a job realated move from Pampa - moving our sophomore son who was slated to play on varsity this year. We had spent 25 years of our marriage in Pampa and lived 2 blocks from Harvester Field. We went to as many games as we could over the years, and went back for the game shown. We know all of those who were interviewed. You did a great job of realistically representing the character of these friends and former neighbors.
Our son is still involeved in high school football. I appreciate your speaking of the positive aspects of athletics. It isn't all of life, but certainly can help develop well rounded individuals.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Ruth Palatnik — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 21:32:46 GMT

While the high chance of injuries makes football a big question to me (I think that any activity with team work can help boys learn responsibilities). However, I am very glad that you included in your segment the piece on Mr Loter. The inclusion of this man shows that the couch really does have his priorities pretty good.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Linda (Bird) Edwards, Arlington, Texas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 21:38:20 GMT

Stone Phillips, your “Pride of Pampa” segment should win the award of all awards for the tender and enlightening way you covered the Pampa, Texas football program as well as the lives of the students, parents, and especially Coach Cavalier that leads this wonderful team of hardworking players.

I was born and raised through grade school in Pampa. My Dad, Robert Bird, was born and raised in Pampa, fathered 6 children from the same town and now lives in Oklahoma with his wife, Carol. As a result of this program he was prompted to share several family stories with me by phone this morning that I didn’t even know. My aunt Sally, Daddy’s oldest sister, was in the first graduating class of Pampa High School. He told me how one of their first homes was near the Pampa High football field and my Granddaddy Bird would pull his vehicle up to the fence so he and the kids could watch the first half of the ballgames and then get in free for the second half. Daddy told me he had tears several times while watching the stories you covered, as he remembered his past days at Pampa High School. Apparently, my uncle, Walker Bird, and his wife, Dorothy, who still live in Pampa, (my aunt Mary and Uncle Cayson do too) were part of the crowd in the football stands during the DATELINE taping of Pampa’s football game.

Funny thing to know, as a young married wife and mother in the late 70’s, my husband and I lived in Odessa, Texas and were part of the fanatic following of the Permian High School team…..MOJO!!! ”Friday Night Lights” hardly covers the full extent of the fan’s fanaticism that I have since realized is simply craziness!!!

Thank you, Stone, for following your instincts in choosing Pampa’s football team for this program. Those of us with roots and family still living in Pampa, along with those whose lives have been planted there for even a short season, KNOW that it is a small town full of love, character, and especially spiritual significance!!! I do believe that Coach Andy Cavalier was a shining light and powerful example in his testifying to the “heart of Pampa” . . . it is God!!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

janette murdock soldotna ak. — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 21:44:03 GMT

I watched most of the football show last night, couldn't quite get into it like most. as I sat and watched I was continually flinching, as I watched the show with my husband who is a great football fan my heart went out to him and all the other young people that are hurt, disabled, in chronic pain, from is game,I say to myself why??? all for the game!!! my husband at age of 16 was seriously hurt playing high school football, and went through a spinal fusion in the late seventies and is in pain everyday and will and has never as long as I've been with him (30plus years) been out of pain not for even one day. and I ask myself why? oh all for the game I can't believe we as a society really do this to our own children. if only the chess club could get the rep. oh boy!!!!
at any rate I'm sure not to many coaches or parents think of the worst but maybe just maybe at some point this game called football will go by the wayside and spare many the hurt that can come of it. and for the cheering mom in the stands that already had two son hurt playing foot ball I really think she need a brain adjustment!!!!!!!!!!!!lets see a show about sports injuries and hopefully some parents well find other sports for their children to join in. sorry but this is the hard truth!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Tom Pettey, Winfield, Kansas — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 22:23:53 GMT

I had the honor of going to college with Andy's parents, Dennis and Kathy. Andy reminded me so much of his dad. Dennis was one great football player and person that we all still miss. Thanks for your great program that I am sure touched many hearts!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Laura & Ted Bowers Boise, Idaho — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 23:24:29 GMT

I would just like to say that this was the best television program that my husband and I have seen for a long time. We so enjoyed this show. This is the kind of good news that we would all like to see more of. Great jog Mr. Phillips and team.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

M Lyons Las Vegas NV — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 23:42:50 GMT

I am sorry I missed the show. My sister watched and loved it. I am wondering if we are related to James Coffee........We have relatives from Pampa and Amarillo and White Deer. Carrie Coffee was my mother. Her father was Glenn Coffee and mother was Rosa Coffee. Is there anyway to find this out?

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

B. Jay Hagerman, Pampa, Texas — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 00:51:23 GMT

Matt Fields and Stone

Thank you For the Show on Pampa's Football Team. I am a former Harvester and My Youngest is now one of the Freshman whom you saw.

Everything presented was accurate but Several things crossed my mund as I watched. The name of the show was a little unsettling. My Oldest is a 3 time(hopefully 4 in two weeks) All State Member of "Pride of Pampa Band") Also no mention of the 5 time State Champion "Hustling Harvester Basketball" teams and our Olympic Gold Medalist Randy Matson, who's name is on both the street next to the stadium entrance but the Track you stood on that surrounds the field.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

B. Jay Hagerman, Pampa, Texas — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 00:56:57 GMT

Matt, My son mentioned in the comments is the 6'6" tight end on the freshman who ran the 89 yard end around against the varsity in practice. i also was one of those who fed you the Jambalaya in the concession stand on Meet the Harvesters Night.

Thanks for the show. Hopefully we showed our good side.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Betty V, Albuquerque, NM — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 01:30:21 GMT

Stone, Thank you. I laughed. I cried. I'm 78, a female who saw in your story the heart of America. The heart that lifted us up to fight and win WWII. The core of America who can take the good with the bad, and do the job without making excuses or pointing fingers.

Thank you

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Sally Cobb Moyer, Milwaukee, Wisconsin — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 01:45:41 GMT

Thank you, Stone, for bringing my hometown alive for me! I'm 71 and have been gone a long time amd miss the sweetness of Pampa.I saw it again in your "Pride of Pampa" and was filled with good memories of growing up there. And I still know the wordds to :Dear Old Pampa High School"! Thank you again.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

James Carter, Borger, Texas — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 06:07:08 GMT

Dear Stone Phillips,

I enjoyed your story about the Pampa football team very much. The “Fighting Harvesters” have a rich heritage and tradition. However, I took great offence to the title of your program: “The Pride of Pampa.” I am an alumnus and former director of the “Pride of Pampa Band.” This name was given to the band upon its return from the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago, Illinois in 1960. A large poster bearing the name “Pride of Pampa” was presented to the band by the community, and hangs in the band hall to this day. At the end of each year the name and everything bearing “The Pride of Pampa” is taken down including the poster of 1960. The band students earn this title each year by their hard work and dedication to band, the school, and the community of Pampa.

I do believe that the “The Fighting Harvester” football team as well as Coaches Andy and Dennis Cavalier are worthy of such a great tribute in you news story, but if you would like to do a story about “The Pride of Pampa,” come back to Texas and interview the band and you will find they too have a rich heritage and tradition.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Jack Donaldson — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 16:36:50 GMT

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Jack Donaldson — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 16:38:44 GMT

Who cares?

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Jack Donaldson — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 16:39:04 GMT

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Corey Coronis ,Pampa,TX — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 19:39:33 GMT

WOW!!! Stone I don't know what to say. It was a very emotional experience from beginning to end. What a fantastic production of journalism. Thank you so much! I've never been more proud of be raised in such a loving and passionate community and now having the opportunity to raise my children here. Please come back anytime... high school football season is just around the corner. Ha Ha Ha !!!!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Mike Wagoner, Seabrook, Texas — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 19:48:21 GMT

I really enjoyed the segment on Pampa where my family and I lived in the eighties when I was the local Navy Recruiter. My kids Cindy and Ken Wagoner attended Pampa High and both graduated before we moved to Seabrook, Texas. Ken played football his senior year only but he enjoyed the team experience. It was good to see such a well produced Dateline "feel good" story. Thanks - Mike Wagoner

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Stephen McCarley, Pampa, TX — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 22:55:30 GMT

Dear Stone Phillips,
I really enjoyed you coming to Pampa for your show. It looked like you lived here as well as you portraded us. you seemed like you understand and showed people that High School football is a lot more then just a game played on friday night. I really enjoyed your visit.
Stephen McCarley #50
Sr,2007

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Judy S. — Mon, 01 Jan 2007 02:51:15 GMT

Mr. Phillips; Do you know how tired we are of hearing about what happens on the left and right coasts? VERY! I am so tired of Paris, Britney and Lindsey. I am tired of squabbling celebreties and their more than tiresome feuds. These kids were a breath of fresh air. Andy and his players are really more resentative of the youth of this country and need to be showcased more often. Pick any state, any town and you'll find them.
Go Harvesters.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

E.A. Aldrich, Las Cruces, NM — Mon, 01 Jan 2007 11:45:59 GMT

Who cares? Obviously, Mr. Donaldson, there were many who cared, judging from the responses I've just read.
Someone referred to it as a "feel-good" program. It could be we've gotten so used to seeing events that have us wringing our hands and/or clenching our teeth that we can no longer enjoy what is good and would probably even argue about what really is "good."

I'm not sure, but I think that Pampa represented many towns for Mr. Phillips and his producer, not only in Texas but throughout our country. For those who were concerned about academics being ignored, students may not participate in any school activity in Texas with even one failing grade. For those who worry about physical injuries that can last a lifetime, and who wouldn't join in that concern, those injuries happen even outside of organized sports. I think it's far better to have kids playing sports than participating in gang fights or drive-by shootings.

As much as a good chess player is to be admired, and I would bet that some of the players on that Fighting Harvester team are also good at chess, there is no way that crowds will go to watch those matches. You all, though, can insist that your local news media cover all events that are positive in your schools and in your communities. It doesn't have to be just football.

I am a former teacher, and I must say that students who participated in sports were always among my best students. They had discipline and knew how to focus.
They improved, rather than detracted from, the class's learning.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Margie (Lemme) Jones,Fort Worth,tx. — Tue, 02 Jan 2007 03:13:57 GMT

Thank you so much for the wonderful story of Pampa's football team. It was so good. My grandson was one of the players. My daughter was in the circle praying before the game. I have watched a few games there. This article was very well done!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Shane Klein New York New York — Tue, 02 Jan 2007 21:52:18 GMT

Why do we never hear about the deaths and injuries of the contractors in Iraq. I understand the number of deaths is well over 500 and injuries almost 4,000 with both of those number portnetially being underreported and even secret.

Please tell us what's going on....

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Jim Davie ,Manhattan ,Ks. — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 00:00:37 GMT

Stone, Thank you for your effort to show many people how great a family the Cavalier's truly are. I have talked to Kathy and Andy since I watched the show and told them both how proud I was of what was accomplished in Pampa with the leadership of the Cavalier family.. Denny and Kathy were our best friends when we coached together in the Wichita area. We were together daily for years, I can't tell you how good Denny could coach football. He made our teams special, which lead to state championships.Andy was born during our years together and I told Andy he not only looked liked his dad , but coached like him to. The tears I shed during the part that showed Denny coaching brought back many memeorys. Thank you again for shinning a great light on a great family that gave there all to there community,school,players and football.

d

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Ann Smith Pampa,Tx — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 03:19:36 GMT

Stone
Watched the story on Friday and was greatly dissapointed on the poor job done on reporting. That you borrowed "The Pride of Pampa" from the Band and could not refer to the Football Team as "The Fighting Harvesters" or the NEW name D Cavalier gave them when he came to town "Green Team" was a joke.

Also after one week or however long you where in Pampa to declare him the greatest Coach is hiliarous.
I might be wrong but my mother can think of over seven Pro-Football Players befor 1975. I believe one of them even has a World Championship ring. Other Coaches have advanced farther in the play-offs, had worse seasons but still managed to place players on the All-State Football team, and they recieved Division I Scholaships and GRADUATED from College.

Let's stick to the Trueth and not rewrite history for a quick Friday Night Story.

I think your coverage of the Students of PHS was wonderful and wished you had concentrated more on them. Nothing is harder than to lose a parent or have a life long dream snatched from you by fate. My heart went out to them.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Michael J. Stevens, Amarillo — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:36:50 GMT

Stone, Matt and the entire Dateline production team,

Congratulations on a superb piece. As the Sports Editor of The Pampa News at the time this special was filmed, I was given a unique perspective on all that went into it. What viewers need to know is that Stone Phillips and Matt Fields new more about those kids at the end of the week than most parents. I recall standing on the sideline during the Lubbock Estacado game when Stone turned to me and said, "Did you see Marcos? Did you see that move?" It was genuine interest, genuine emotion. He, Matt and the crew cheered for the players by name. My fear for this piece is that it would be little more than a 'feel good' story that would garner some sort of undeserved recognition. Nothing could be further from the truth. I am troubled by those comments concerning Trent Loter, Coach Andy Cavalier and others. Freedom of speech is a constitutional right, however, it would seem some ought to be licensed to use it. I was even troubled to see a Pampan take the opportunity to make an attempt at driving a wedge between the PHS "Pride of Pampa" band and the Fighting Harvesters football team. "Pampa Pride" is foundation on which all Pampa events - academic, sports or otherwise - are based. A foundation that has been poured and strengthened by students past, students today and students future. I think you did a remarkable job in portraying the makeup of a small town Friday night football game, the preparation leading up to it and all that takes place during. More importantly, you wrapped the piece with the amazing story of coach Andy Cavalier and his late father, Dennis. If nothing else comes of this, know that Pampa, and communities like it, can only grow stronger because you took the time to tell its story.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

PHILLYEDDIE PHILADELPHIA — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 16:43:32 GMT

Wow I went to Pampa about 4 years ago what a beautiful place,being a NEW YORKER and living in PHILADELPHIA I was so lucky to travel to many places in the world. And when I was invited to PAMPA by a Dear friend I loved it,landing in Amarillo was nice it reminded be of PHILLY but driving to Pampa was just breathtaking since I had never been to small town America.
I was excited and overcome with much happiness to realize I was here I especially enjoyed HOBART ST
and the many shops in the area.
If I could give everything up I own here in Philadelphia and move to Pampa I would do so in a heartbeat,and even though I was not able to attend a game at the "field of dreams" I have promised myself I will return to Pampa before my lifetime is done because I left a huge void in my heart when I left Pampa GOD BLESS AMERICA AND GOD BLESS PAMPA

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Lonnie & Ann Loter Pampa/Pottsboro, Texas — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 19:28:49 GMT

To Stone Phillips and Matt Fields

We just watched our new favorite episode of Dateline, again----and again we are impressed with the quality projected in this piece. Thank you for being sensitive to so many, including Trent. We are lifelong fans and will be watching for you both in the future.

Thanks again for a job well done.

The Loter's
Lonnie, Ann & Trent

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Kenzi Lea, PAMPA TEXAS! — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 01:49:30 GMT

Dear Mr. Phillips,
I am a Senior at Pampa High School and I just wanted to say thank you so much for the great show. I wanted to say that Brett is one of my best friends and Chris is very close to my heart as well. This town has been through a lot of tragedies and heartbreaks, but we stay together and fight through them Pampa style. Pampa is full of many things, but what we love to carry on and are also known for (in some cases) is our Tradition. This includes everything from Football, Baseball, Softball, Basketball, Track to the Pride of Pampa band. I did not have the privilege to be coached by Dennis Cavalier, but my brother did, so I knew him. I loved him, as I do his son Andy, “Coach Cav” to me. They are great men who have taught me things off the field, since I am a girl who does not play football. My heart and soul are in the sport and have been my entire life. Those who do not know the joy that this sport brings to many people, I feel for you and wish that you could experience the happiness that comes over the entire town on a Friday night in Pampa Texas!
As for those who have bashed Pampa, I’m sorry that you feel that way. Pampa is a great town full of great people, and you would know that if you would have paid one lick of attention to the show, instead of bashing every word that Coach Cav said. I want to apologize to Mr. Fields and Mr. Phillips for the rude comments that people have wrote. Ya’ll did an AMAZING job coming in and finding the heart of Pampa in one week. Football is part of the heart of Pampa, but there are many other things to it, including our family and our FAITH. The report was about the REAL “Friday Night Lights,” which is football, so if you are bashing football, then you shouldn't have watched the program. If you are bashing our faith, I do believe faith was in the title that Mr. Phillips said at the very beginning of the program, so you should’ve changed the channel if you didn’t want to hear about our faith. And Mr. Trent Lotter is an AMAZING man, who is also a HUGE part of the HEART of Pampa and “FEELIN’ HARVESTER GOOD!!!!” I only wish that some of you had a heart, or a brain in your head, to know that.
But THANK YOU to everyone who has said something positive about Pampa, the people in it, and our love of the “Friday Night Lights!”
Especially THANKYOU to MR. Fields and MR. Phillips for portraying the heart and soul of Pampa so well!

Thanks so much and GOD BLESS!
Kenzi Lea

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Sena Brainard Pampa,Texas — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 15:48:05 GMT

Stone
I was shocked to read in the blog that a reporter wanted the Freedom of Speech Licensed just because he did not agree with what they had to say or wrote into your blog. Men and Women have Fought and Died and defended that Right along with the Constitutional Right of Freedom of the Press. Let us not forget their HUGE Sacrifices for us.

I see no wedge being driven between the "Pride of Pampa Band" and "The Fighting Harvesters". Everyone in Pampa knows that "The Pride" drove to Perryton on their own in support of "The Fighting Harvesters". I can speak only for myself but can understand how people would like accurate reporting.
To say someone does not have the right to their opinion is sad. I DO NOT AGREE with some of the sad, sick, and very UNPATRIOTIC thing left on the blog but understand that their Rights start where mine end.

Loved the focus on the Students of PHS and hope that a wonderful Division I Scholarship comes through for that young man.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Todd Heitschmidt, Abilene, KS — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 21:05:35 GMT

Mr. Phillips
I thoroughly enjoyed watching “The Pride of Pampa” Friday night. I may be biased as Andy (Coach Cavalier) is my nephew and his mother, Kathy Cavalier, is my sister. But what I have to say is nothing more than the truth. I consider Andy to be of the highest integrity and loyalty. He is a devoted husband, father, son, brother and community leader. He is quick with a smile and hello to friends and strangers alike. He possesses that rare combination of personality traits that allows him to be honest yet nonjudgmental. The strongest thing I can say about Andy is his humility. He is a very humble person. Very much like his dad (Denny). And I love Denny's philosophy of, “Win without bragging, lose without excuses”. Which I know is carried on through Andy to the Harvester football team. This show left me feeling Harvester Good!!! Thanks!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Tammie ABQ NM — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 22:32:22 GMT

Basketball actually has a higher number of injuries per year than football.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

KGS — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 22:56:06 GMT

I loved the dateline show on Pampa. being a Harvester myself i feel hurt and very mad about some of the things said on this blog. i totally agree with Kenzi if you didn't like seeing a show about a football team with enough heart to let Trent be a part of it then don't watch. if you didn't like no one cares because you may think you have a right to say things like that but you don't. not until you come and actually meet the people here. you are only saying those things because you were not good enough to be on your high school football team. to everyone who said nice things thank you that is what america is about sticking together and supporting one another. thank you Stone Phillips and the Dateline Team for coming and showing america our town it may be small but we all have a large heart. "GO FIGHTING HARVESTERS."

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Robert E. "Swede" Lee, Texarkana, Texas — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 23:26:32 GMT

Mr. Phillips,

Congratulations on a job well done. You told the real story of how high school sports competition can bring out the best qualities of individuals and community. Like many who have written, it brought back a lot of memories for me. I was the head football coach for the Harvesters 1968-71 seasons.
The stadium lights, the track, the field house, and stadium seats were improvements made in '69 & 70. The '71 team won the first District championship in about 20 years. During those years Pampa also won district championships in basketball and track. I am sure the athletes, student body, and fans of that era are proud to see their labors, those many years ago, are still bearing fruit. Thanks again for a great show.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Leslie McWilliams, Lubbock, TX — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 00:43:17 GMT

I am a college senior at Texas Tech who graduated from PHS in 2003. As a four year "Pride of Pampa" band member and drum major and a four year varsity soccer player, I was disheartened to read about the negative responses to the shows' title. Why can't the town as a whole be thankful and proud that our community was fittingly portrayed on national television instead of complaining about the title of the show? After all, isn't the "Pride of Pampa" band a representation of community pride? I saw the program and was so PROUD to be a Harvester! Thank you Stone and Dateline for displaying our town so honestly. I was coached by Andy, and I can think of no other man to better represent our lifestyles and values as a community. Thanks again!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dixie Nickell Pampa TX — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 02:04:04 GMT

Dear Stone and Matt,
Thinking back to the morning you were leaving Pampa, after filming all week, I was working the front desk at the AmericInn Hotel and you were eating breakfast, I stopped at the table and said "Whatever you do, please make us proud". I never dreamed you could have done such a fantastic job. I'm sorry that people have doubts, but things besides winning are very important to us. I have watched our kids and our coaches stop in the middle of practice, whatever the sport, and take off the caps and stand at attention for a funeral procession to go by the school. I've seen them kneel and pray on the field when all the announcer could do was offer a moment of silence. I've seen them shake hands with a team that destroyed us on the scoreboard, cry tears because it was the last time they would ever sing the fight song or play a game they loved, but at the same time never be more proud than they were on that day, because Coach Dennis Cavalier blessed them with the chance of a lifetime to play a game at Texas Stadium. Wow! What an honor. As the parent of a son that played for both Coach Cav’s and of a senior playing first base on the girl’s softball team, I know for a fact that faith, family and friendship are the most important things these kids can take with them when they leave Pampa High School.
Thanks again guys,
You made us very proud!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

RLS, San Antonio, TX — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 02:54:39 GMT

I missed the the initial viewing of this program but heard about it from my brother. Reviewing the piece on this website, I marveled at it's content, and admired the thought and genuine grace that it created about a place and time that remains constant in a world of inconsistancy.

The Pampa I remember, from the mid 70's, was much like the one represented in the storyline. The "city" supports and encourages the student body and all their endeavors. I remember selling countless boxes of fruitcakes to the neighborhoods funding future roadtrips for the band.

This community believes in its children and their dreams and ambitions.

Thank you for a thoughtful and compelling storyline.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dewayne Lovinggood Class of 56, Cypress, Tx — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 05:48:49 GMT

Great job about the Harvesters. Brought back so many memories of PHS. What is GT and what is El Cora? Best TV I have watched in many moons. Keep up good work.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Kyle Myers, Texas City, TX — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 15:05:15 GMT

Hi Stone! I am a Junior at Texas City and yes we were TWO games away from state. But we lost to La Marque and they went on to win state. It was the second time we played them this year and it was the first time that has ever happened in the rivalry. You know how big the rivalry is, but the thought of who ever wins will most likely win state, and the hype all week before the game was amazing. There is nothing like High School Football in Texas.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Becky Lentz Norman Oklahoma — Sat, 06 Jan 2007 03:53:07 GMT

we watched your story on THE PAMPA HAVERSTERS. Great job!That represents a lot of good things about my home town. My dad always said if you cant say something good dont say any thing at all.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Michael Trimble, Pampa, TX — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 23:38:52 GMT

To Stone, Matt and staff, I'm Casey Trimble's dad. I want to thank you for giving my son and his teammates such a positive experience, something they can remember fondly all their lives.

It is indeed exciting and fun to watch these boys fulfulling their childhood dreams, but I want to also thank you for noticing and stressing something that gives me much more joy and pride than anything our kids might do on the football field: in all the ways that I love my son, I am most proud of him for being the good person that he is, and I dearly love the boys I've watched him grow up with for the same reason. I believe Coach Andy values these boys' character as much as I do, and that he gives more than just lip service to that high principle, and for that we Pampa parents are very fortunate. Not everyone in this old world gets that kind of break in their formative years.

And I might add that only a good man would pick up on that dynamic when casting about for a story and angle, so hats off to you as well, Stone and Matt. Thanks again.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

chris, austin texas — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 17:45:08 GMT

How did the season end up?

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

SUE HICKS, Montgomery, AL — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 22:52:00 GMT

THIS WAS THE VERY BEST PROGRAM I HAVE EVER SEEN, I HOPE I SEE A LOT OF RE-RUNS. AS A FORMER TEACHER, I WAS AMAZED TO SEE STUDENT RESPECT.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

S.H. New York — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 01:54:38 GMT

Who said you can never go home.
Thank you for a great story.
I usually turn the channel on these football stories,
but I sat transfixed as you bought back memories.
Thanks for the great reporting.
S.H.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Doug Carmichael, Pampa, Texas — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 04:54:07 GMT

Stone--As a 1969 alumnus of Pampa High School and a lifelong resident of Pampa, I have never been more proud of my hometown than I am now. Your portrayal of "Friday Night Lights" in Pampa was right on the mark. I was a neighbor of the Cavalier family, and Dennis was "El Norma"...the standard. He lived it and breathed it, and Andy is just like him. Thank you and your crew for giving our community a once-in-a-lifetime memory that we'll always treasure.

Doug Carmichael, Pampa

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Don Blaser, Eagle Point, Oregon — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 19:58:01 GMT

Stone Phillips and Crew,
I usually turn Dateline off as I am so tired of watching all the missing people and murder trails. I almost turned this off and in just a few moments I was hooked. Pride of Pampa was the best thing I believe Dateline has ever done. I tried in vain to buy a taped copy to share with some teachers and coaching friends of mine. They do not sell it as a tape. Can you please tell me when this program might be rebroadcast?

Thank You and Great Work!
D Blaser, Oregon

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

John C., Pampa, TX — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 15:59:32 GMT

You can add one more positive to Coach Cav's young coaching legacy. This year THREE of the Harvester football players were named to the ACADEMIC All-State Football Team for the State of Texas. Bobby Sikes, Craig Crowell and Ben Gibson. Coach Cav constantly encourages the players to put their academics before sports, even to the point of allowing them to miss practice to attend tutorials to improve their grades. And not just to make sure they pass. He incourages the players to take advantage of tutorials to help them improve their grades no matter how high they already are. And he regularly communicates with teachers to make sure students do their best in the classroom, as well as on the field.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Kathy Cavalier, Pampa, TX — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 21:31:33 GMT

D Blaser from Oregon if you will call Coach Cavalier at Pampa High School, 806-669-4830, he can tell you how to get a copy.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

YVETTE BARBARA BALDWIN, CINCINNATI OHIO — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:53:13 GMT

I ENJOY WATCHING DATELINE ON A REGULAR BASIS. MY NAME IS YVETTE BARBARA BALDWIN AND I HAVE A VERY EXCITING AND SUSPENSEFUL STORY, THAT I'M CERTAIN DATELINE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE AS A PART OF THEIR NEWS HISTORY.
IT'S AWARD WINNING

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dean Morton — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 01:38:52 GMT

Stone, you hit the nail right on the head with your insight on Coach Wells, some of the quotes he said I still use them today, he taught us well, no pun intended, thanks for calling me a good running back that made my day. Go Longhorns we are the best. Dean Morton

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Deanna Floyd, Pahrump, Nevada — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 15:17:14 GMT

I would like to obtain a transcript of this story. Can I do this online or do I have to call in. Please let me know. Thank you.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dan Teed, Dothan, Alabama — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 15:30:55 GMT

I believe the most positive thing about the show, other than the great job done by Dateline, was the portrayal of the caring way that Coach Cav deals with kids. It makes you think maybe things are getting turned around in a few corners of these United States. It also brings back memories of another coach in The Pampa system - Clifton McNeely. McNeely was mentor (in the strictest sense of that overused word) for a whole generation of kids from Pampa, and it's good to see someone continuing that tradition.

Outstanding show!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Walter Bredy — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 03:30:53 GMT

I missed this on first showing but tonight my son called me from Texas to tell me that Andy was on tv.
My son played for Dennis when he coached in Oklahoma. This is a fine family and the things Andy teaches were learned by my son when he played for Dennis. My son weighed 141 pounds but Dennis gave him a chance to play. Stone, you covered this story well and you made a lot of people happy with this story.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Steve Albright, Mequon, WI — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 11:47:51 GMT

Dear Stone,

I saw the rebroadcast of your show last night. (3-13-07.) I reallenjoyed seeing a grown Andrew. I remember seeing Andrew and his brother hanging around the weight room, waiting for their father late in the afternoon and evenings at Chickasha High School. Though I never played football for Coach Cav, I can say that he was one of the (if not the most) influential men in my life. His influence drives even the way I relate to my employees and my own children. I pray that when I die, I was at least half the man coach Cavelier was. Thank you Caveliers for sharing Dennis with Chickasha and especially me.
Steve Albright

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Jeannie Bell, Sun Valley, Idaho — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 05:34:11 GMT

Dear Stone;

I watched the re-run of the Pride of Pampa show on 3/13/07 and it really touched me deeply. I was born and raised in Pampa and graduated in l967. Since then, I have lived far away and internationally and have visited only a handful of times. Thank you for such a poignant reminder of the sweet life that Pampa offered to me for 18 years. I hold one of records of never missing a high school football game in or out of town ( with Pamie June Johnson) and being a football and basketball queen courtesan. It is so comforting to know that the Spirit and wholesomeness of this precious place lives on. I resonated with your protrayal and fell in love all over again. I send the best to Coach Cavelier- Go Harvesters! Jeannie Bell

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Ron Monaco, Columbus,OH — Sat, 17 Mar 2007 06:57:25 GMT

By chance I happened upon your re-run of the Pride of Pampa show on 3/13/07. It brought back some nice memories for me. I grew up with Denny Cavalier in the 1950's in Brockway PA. Of course he was the star athlete and excelled in all sports in our small town. He was a few years older than I, and I looked up to him then. There was no organized football prior to high school at that time but at about age 13, Denny organized all the hometown kids into 4 football teams and we had a ball playing some tough and competitive games. It was East-end vs Maple Street and West-end vs Northside without any adult involvement and just great fun. He was well respected and we all knew 'Cav'was special leader and a good influence on all of us. It is no surprise to me that he has such a great family and touched so many lives.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Rockville , Maryland — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 18:26:06 GMT

Dear Stone , Thank you so much for the great story of Texas high school football. Pampa is like thousands of schools across our great country that have wonderful young men and women who continue to have dreams to fulfill. My son is one such young man ( now 30 ) who has lived Texas high school football for years. He too , was an equipment manager in Texas and in Florida and now has his own website called texashsfootball.com which gets millions of hits every month. He has lived with me since being diagnosed with cp and being 70% deaf and will he hasn't made much money , he continues to live and breath Texas high school football. He is one of my heros. I believe MSNBC even called him for advice on this type of story. I would love to have a copy of this program if it is available and encourage you to continue excellent human interest stories such as this. God Bless You , America , and Texas high school football. Chuck Lyke

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Timothy Holmes, Pittsburgh, PA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:34:43 GMT

Family Risks Everything for their Love of the Steelers

Born in New Kensington Timothy Holmes has always loved the Steelers, but not to the extent that the Holmes family took it to. He risked everything to get closer the team that he loves. All of his friends told him, that moving to Pittsburgh is a bold move but, stupid one. The move could have many life changing implicating on his family lives. Lately his wife has told him that, the love for the Steelers will not put food on the table. The truth of the matter, he did not listen to anyone. Before we go on, let me take you back 36 years.

In 1970 his mother, decided move them to Bakersfield, California. His uncle told his mother that this was the place to get rich, so along they went. Moving from New Kensington to Bakersfield would have major changes on his life. After high school, and three different colleges, he found himself enlisting in the US Navy, because he thought his life was not going any where. So it seemed to be a good thing. Fifteen years later, with military down sizing, he was offered retirement for rating that was over manned.

Upon retiring from the Navy, he and his family moved back to Bakersfield with the hope of better life. After small stitch as a correction supervisor, Timothy and Irma his wife found themselves unemployed. For almost a year, they lived on robbing Peter to pay Mary. That will go down as the worst year of their lives. Besides losing their jobs, their son Scott went to school and broke his right femur while playing soccer. While their son laid in traction in a Southwest Bakersfield hospital, Irma and Tim left to see her obstetrician. The next two days would also test their faith and love. Irma was pregnant, and a during this visit doctor they found out that their son Miles inside Irma had no heart beat.

Three days later Scott was placed in a spika cast and at the same time Irma would have to go in another hospital across town to deliver their dead son. Having no money or jobs they asked the state to use the body for research. Now both Scott and his wife required 24 hour care, it was all most impossible to bear. For Scott the next 3 to 4 months would require constant turning to reduce bed scores. Once the spika cast was removed they would have to teach him how to walk again. After this, Scott returned to school for four weeks, until the most unbelievable event occurred again. While playing outside, their son Scott turn around on a skate board and fell and broke his left femur bone. At this point, they began to cry and started to wonder why, and what was the lesson in this. Lessons learned from this experience, is that no matter what life throws you, you must still gone on. A year after losing their jobs, both of them found jobs.

Getting jobs was just the break they needed to move on from that year of dilemma.

After three in a half years working at the same job, Tim was called to the front office to witness a retirement ceremony for one of the employees. The employee was retiring after 30 years with the company; the owner of the company was thanking the employee for his years of service. Once the ceremony speeches were over, the owner presented the employee with a card and a cheap watch. This opened Tim’s eyes, and changed his life. Tim starting to think how could a company that offers no medical insurance, no 401K and no benefits offer this employee a watch for thirty years of service. That day,” Tim said not me”, that’s not going to be me 30 years from now.

Later that after noon, Tim enrolled into University of Phoenix (UOP) to finish a task that he failed complete twenty two years earlier. Upon starting college he told his wife that once he graduated he would quit his job and move to Pittsburgh. Irma just shook her head, like he was just talking smack. Tim told Joey Porter and Jerome Bettis the same story; they also believed that Tim was talking smack, when he meant them at Joey’s Porter First Annual Boot Camp held in Bakersfield in June 2005. Tim told both them that he was going to move to Pittsburgh because of his love for the Steelers. Tim told Joey this again, at the Super Bowl parade held in Bakersfield, in March 2006. Porter again looked at Tim like he was crazy or just talking crap. On June 24, 2006 Joey Porter held his Second Annual Boot Camp in Bakersfield, Lord knows Tim wanted to go, but that was the same date of his graduation of college.

Two weeks prior to his graduation, Tim was asked to cover for a fellow employee that was out sick. Driving truck is not an easy task, for the company that he worked for. The truck doors would not open and dolly’s wheels kept of falling off, he decided to give his two weeks notice. He could not take it any more, the equipment not working properly for six years. In his last class at University of Phoenix, all students were assigned to a power point presentation on their Past, Present, and Future. During the presentation the instructor asked Tim if sure about moving to Pittsburgh. She asked Tim if I had a job lined up. And he told her no. She went on to ask Tim if I had a place to live. Again he told her no. She again asks Tim a third question if he had a lot of money saved up, and again Tim told her no. She went on to say, Tim want have you learned from critical thinking, and all of the other courses that you have taken at UOP.

Tim told his instructor, that you never get a head without taking risks, and the US would not be where it were, without taking risks. So, keeping with his promise he made to himself, before attending school. The Holmes family started selling everything they own to get enough of money to drive to Pittsburgh. Driving two vehicles across country is not an easy chore with two kids and a fish. They left Bakersfield on July 17, 2006 and after $1700 dollars and two ($300) hot checks they arrived in Pittsburgh on late Saturday July 22, 2006.

Since then, they are still jobless, homeless and penniless. After two months of looking for work Tim has came to realize that in western Pennsylvania is not what you know, but who you know helps you to get a job. With all of their bills mounted up in the rate of collections/re possession Tim’s gut feeling tells him that his heart for the Steelers has gotten the best off him. Maybe it time to start thinking with his head and not his heart. So now they can’t afford to stay and can’t afford to go home, but in the next few weeks they will have to make a tough choice, rather to tough it out or admit failure and return to Bakersfield. Telling Tim’s story could help him get it of his system. Tell Tim what would you do, if you were in his shoes?

Family Risks Everything for their Love of the Steelers Part 2

In the part one the Holmes family, moved to Pittsburgh, in hopes of a better future”, however that has not happened. After almost three months later they are still Jobless, homeless and penniless. Now the Holmes family knows why: it is impossible to move somewhere and hope for a new future. Irma told Tim tonight (10-11-06) that no wonders why people commit suicide, because good people never get a break. It seems like people in life that cheat, steal and lie get all of the benefits from the government, and society. Don’t get it wrong, they are not asking for a hand out, just a little break. Deep down they think their love for the Steelers, really got the best of them. Tim and Irma thought that moving to Pittsburgh, they could get jobs quickly. They also thought starting over and settling was another dream of theirs. They thought moving to Pittsburgh would feel right at home because, not only is the cost of living here is less than California, but they would be able to see the Steelers live. They have been here three months, it is all most time to put the dreams aside and head back to California.

On October 12, 2006 their old neighbors called them from Bakersfield, California and said that a tow truck came by their old place looking for their truck. This means it is a matter of time before they re possession the truck and the car. Soon they will be without any vehicle to either get home or look for work. What do you do if your heart is in one place, and head tells you to go home? Sitting hearing this story does not make it any easier. Remembering back to when they sold our home in 2004, they made just enough to pay it off and with a little extra. That extra cash they received from their house they used it to fly and watch the Steelers play the Jets and the Patriots in the play offs in 2005.

This sounds crazy, but that the craziest thing they have done to watch the Steelers is. In January of 2006 with their entire credit cards max out, they charged two plane tickets to Denver (don’t know how it was approved). Going to Denver without any cash, credit, and game tickets was totally insane. Once they got to Denver they called their friend Wade and told him a story that they loss their game tickets and if he could wire them $500 dollars. Well Wade did, and boy was that a great game. So that’s why making this decision to quit and return home is so hard for them, they love the Steelers. After three months of being here with no money and no job they never got to go to a game. Hopefully later in life they can look back at this and laugh, but right now it is very stressful and unforgiving. Please say a prayer for them and wish the Steelers to bounce back.

Family Risks Everything for their Love of the Steelers Part 3

On October 20, 2006 the shit it the fan, the Holmes family received a call about turning the Toyota Tundra the over to the creditor, Toyota finance told them to meet them in a parking lot, well Toyota never show up. Then the next day Toyota told them meet them at the same point, again they were a no-show. Tim decided that this was getting old; so he left the truck, because he could not afford to pay the last four payments on the lease. So for $2,000 it goes down as re possession on their credit report. Now it only time before their other vehicle gets re possessed, and they will be without a car to look for work. Maybe it is a sign, to stay or move around so that their creditor will not find the car.

Telling their story, maybe someone out there would be sorry for them and give them a break. The fact is, why should they think, anybody would care, about them, they dug this hole for themselves, and it is up to them to dig their self’s out. Everyone needs a helping sometimes, right now the Holmes need help. Just like the Steelers right now they are in that grout, and so is the Holmes. Only time and a great effort will make any head way. The odds look better for the Steelers than for them.

The reason why, winter is approaching and firms/business do not hire a lot during the winter months. Business normally laid-off workers, and now with bad credit the odds are less of receiving a great jobs offer are slim.

Just as things are slim, they have gotten worse. This past Saturday October 27, 2006 Tim woke up feeling pain on left side of his stomach. He tried to deal with it all day, but later that night he ended up going to the emergency room because of the pain. After hours in the hospital, the doctor walked in and told him that he had kidney stones in his track and he would have to pass them. The doctor said that he would give him 5 days to pass them and if not he would go in after them. The point is, that males only one way to discharge liquid waste. Boy that's going to hurt.

Talk about hurting, since they arrived here in New Kensington on July 22, 2006 they have stayed with their cousin Pauline, and her husband Gary. This is been one bright point in this adventure. However, after at least two hundred applications and many resumes Tim found out today November 1, 2006 that my former employer with giving him a bad reference. To make matters worst, Tim’s wife of nineteen years is starting to drink more as the days go by. The more that she drinks, the worst the agreement gets. Tim thinks now, that the choice of moving here to New Kensington is taking a toll on their marriage. The truth is that it all stems from having too many bills and no income coming in. Plus, not having there own house also adds fuel to the fire, with a bar downstairs, the fire becomes an inferno.

An inferno is mild to the situation that they are in; they are between 60 and 70 thousand of dollars in debt, four to five months behind on their bills and creditors calling almost 24 hours on their cell phone. Sometime they are afraid to answer the cell phone because they think it could be a creditor. This also could pay a role in not receiving a job offer, because of not always answering the phone. It seems like all of the forces are not in their corner, everything and everyone is against them. They are trying to keep a positive attitude, but they are almost to the point putting their hands up and quit. They do not want to be a quitter but, lately with what life has dealt them and what they have chosen to bring on them.

Family Risks Everything for their Love of the Steelers Part 4

Since the last writing, things has been going down hill, but Tim still remain positive. However, that is not the case with Irma. Irma wants to go back home to California, Tim told her home where, we have no home. The Holmes family spent Thanksgiving and Christmas with their cousin Gary and Pauline. Just before Christmas, Pauline son and his family was also staying above the bar in three of the five rooms. Well the trouble between Pauline son and the Holmes started when they went to see a Christmas light display and two of the kids got caught stealing silly putty from one of the stores. After this, Pauline son did not want his son playing with Tim and Irma's son Scott. That week Scott got blamed for the trouble that the kids got into. Tim and Irma see it as they were both at fault. Well that's not the worst of the Holmes problems.

On December 29, 2006 Irma started drinking, early and by 8:00pm she buzzed. Around 9:00pm this guy asks Tim if his Irma could go with him to make a toast to his friend that passed away this week. Tim told the guy that it did not look right and that Irma could no go. So about a hour later Irma came over and asked Tim the same thing, and Tim told her the same thing. Well about 2 hours later Irma snick out of the bar, and goes with that guy. Tim does not realize it until some time later but no sure on the time period, so when Tim realize that Irma is not around so after searching the building, Tim calls Irma's cell phone and around ten minute later the guy and Irma drive up in the parking lot. Tim goes out and pushs the guy and then Irma gets in the way and Tim pushes her aside and she falls. They both of them said that nothing happened, but Tim does not believe it, because they both left from different doors. Irma went out of the only door that Tim could not see her. Tim got mad and left for the night and when a got cheap room. Just to find out the next day Irma is missing her keys, and wallet pouch. So Tim thinking only way she could lose her key and pouch is to have her pants around her ankles.

To this day Tim does not trust Irma, well later that afternoon, Tim when back to the bar. They did very little talking for the next four days. Well, things would get a little worser, because before Christmas Pauline son and the Holmes have not seen eye to eye. So when the kids would get into arguments, Pauline son's kids would run to get Gary. This would make Gary mad because he is very temperamental, but that is because he owns the bar below and having kids around causes him to loose money. Tim thinks that Pauline son told his kids to start telling Gary about the arguments between Holmes kids and Pauline son kids, this would cause them problems with Gary. Pauline son is currently going through a divoice and on Tuesday (Jan 2, 2007) child services showed up at the kids school for their route talking. For 5 months the Holmes never came into question when the kids were questioned by child services, but how that Pauline son and the Holmes were not getting along, the Holmes came into play. Later Pauline son said that child services need Tim & Irma social security number, DOB and name of the kids and their age. Tim and Irma said no, because the situation with child service was not their business. Well Pauline son told Tim and Irma that child services wanted the information and if they would not give it then they need to get out. Pauline son said that Tim and Irma is causing him the chance of losing his kids. The only thing that is causing him to lose his children is that he spend no time with them. He lays in bed with his girl friend, while he is legally still married. He goes to work at 3:30pm but does not spend time with his kids until he goes to work. He has 4 kids with different women, Pauline son has no sense of responsibility. He has his mom and everyone else take care of them. Pauline son is above the bar right now, trying to make his 5th kid with the fourth women, see the trend. Well he was the only reason why Tim and Irma left the bar.

On January 4, 2007 Tim and Irma are staying in weekly hotels and money is running short. Tim has finally filed for uneployment insurance because after applying for jobs and jobs he can not get a job because of his bad reference from his employer. The point is that California Employment Office said Tim is not allowed unemployment because he quit his job. But Tim believes that he should get unemployment because his former employer his stopping him from getting a job. His former employer should pay for that stand. Tim and Irma have applied for help everywhere and all resources told them NO. They will need a miracle to end this successful. However, Tim and Irma’s friends thought getting the word out, to Steelers fans could be the break they needed. Until the writing of this story, nothing has happened, so this is why the Steeler faithful is their only and last hope, of changing their luck. So how can you help them, get their word out and just maybe someone will come to their rescue. The Holmes mailing address is at the bottom. The last thing, please pray for them.

Again thanks for listening

Timothy & Irma Holmes

PO Box 2024

Lower Burrell, Pa 15068

iltpstkh@aol.com

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Becky, Grantsville, Utah — Tue, 27 Mar 2007 17:38:37 GMT

I don't know how else to contact Dateline with a story that needs to be told. It's about a wonderful, kind man that is being destroyed by local officials (judges, lawyers, local people on the take, sherrifs, policemen, Highway patrole, attourney general, etc.). He needs help and he has one heck of a story to tell. Please, if this can be passsed on to someone in the "new investigations dept., it could be a huge story for dateline. The man that I reffer to is Dennis McBride - (435)884-6183 - please, call him and you will not believe what the town of Grantsville,his ex-wife, City/County Officials are doing to this man to get what little property he has left now.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

xiao, santa rosa, ca — Sun, 15 Apr 2007 18:44:34 GMT

I only watched the rerun of the show: the confession of the serial killer Jeff Darmer's case presented on 14th night on MSN by Stone, who structured the show in such a way that the family members, especially the mom is on trial. She is able to be couragerous enough to speak up her mind. Every word she said is honest. The question here is that the society as the most powerful model provider has given kids all kinds of models of killing, raping, violence, perversions and this is not even touched upon while I was watching the show. It is a show that sensationalize the family conflicts and capitalize on the emotional identification of the viewers. It is misleading and with a lot blind spots in presenting the case. No parents can conpete with the powerful media and best selling thrills, suspensers and a million junk books that the authors acting out their killing, canniballistic fantasies. "art is an accomplice in crime." true enough. And Jeff has developed a compulsion to act out his urge to perform murder and ritulistic mutilation of the body parts. The question is not that parents did something to had steered his path to Killing. I don't think it would ever occure to the parents to "teach killing" or sow the seeds for killing. It is a compulsion to cross the line and break the taboo and there is nothing more challenging than Killing and handling the body parts to feel the sense of thrill and in control and it feeds the sick mind and soul to continue until he himself is terminated. All the pop violence is the hotbed for troubled kid to become a killer who has totally lost the sense of social consequences.Also, such ritualistic killing has thrusted him all the way back to the primitive mindset of a novice i in trance. When he came to, the thrills that he beat the system, the police and the parental pressure gave him the High and it feeds his This reporter is doing a very shallow sensationalized report about a very complicated case, by publically putting the mother in a very disadvantagous position. It is a media raping of a mother who is very much of a victim of the culture as well as her son. The reporter needs to restructure the show and get some professional help.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Mack Swan San Antonio, Tx — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 03:30:45 GMT

I would like to know if I can order video PRIDE OF PAMPA,NARRATED BY Stone Phillps on December 29,2006. Please respone to this email. Thanking you in adavance.Mack Swan

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Dorothy Smith, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 17:59:18 GMT

Please, Please , Please tell me Stone Phillips is not leaving dateline, I just don't know what I will do , Stone is my idea dream guy, I don't know if he has children, but I do know his wife has been ill, and he stood by her , and that can take it's toll on a person , and to work with that on your shoulders iis extremely hard, I would love to meet Stone in person one day he has a gifted smile that I will never forget, I am divorced, but I have a very ill daughter who has been sick all her life, so I kinda know what he's going through.....Please don't go Stone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, I'm not a starker , but I am a geuine fan...........MsDot

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

JD Paquet Maed WA — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 21:27:27 GMT

Dear DateLine,
I am sorry to see him go he made the show better.
O will keep watching,

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Evelyn Jackson, Fort Worth,Texas — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 23:04:32 GMT

Dear Mr.Stone,

The story on the Pampa Harvesters football team was great,however I hope you had a chance to tour the area of Pampa which has been neglected for years.If you really want a good but sad story, take a ride on the south-side of town. What happened to all the Pampa pride on this side of town? The City Of Pampa sure could use some grant money to revitalize this rundown and neglected community.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

cyndy tim livingston capitan n.m. — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 04:41:07 GMT

Knowing Andy through Wendy who grew up as our daughter and sons best friend, has been a pleasure and he and his dad are truley good, kind and loving people, coaches, and friends. Stone Phillips couldn't have picked better people to help with this production.

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

cyndy tim livingston capitan n.m. — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 04:41:50 GMT

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Linda Parrino, Newport News, VA — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:35:05 GMT

Why is Stone leaving and WHERE will he be??? I saw his last program and nothing was mentioned about his next step. Please commemt someone!!!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Scott A, Andover, MN — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 03:25:49 GMT

I hope the report I saw that Stone Phillips was leaving because NBC execs did not want to pay him and that they had to many anchors is not true, because Dateline will NOT be the same without him...PERIOD!!!! Stone Phillips IS Dateline NBC and if they let him go because of the all mightly dollar, they just made a HUGH mistake!!!!!

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Patricia M. Virden — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 01:45:38 GMT

Stone, what are you doing at this time. Will you still be at NBC?

Football and one of my all-time favorite hours on Dateline

Hunter Shay, Pampa, Tx. — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 22:15:45 GMT

Dear Mr. stone,

I enjoyed the show about the "Fighting Harvesters" but i do have one concern. You adressed the football team as the "Pride of Pampa". The "Pride" does not belong to the football team it belongs to the "BAND". As a band member i recently have seen a rerun (agian) of the story about the "Fighting Harvesters".It's starting to get to me, the band directors, and many band (band alumni) members.

Hopfully you will see through the many comments and questions. That you should come back to pampa tx, and do a story on the true "PRIDE OF PAMPA". THE BAND!!!!

It would inform the people of America about a great tradition, and let them see through to one of the greatest bands in America.

As a student i know i will not be taken very seriosly, but i ask that you look at my request and see it as you would see all others.

Local pampan and band member,

Hunter Shay