My summer hiatus in Ohio and Illinois was eventful and adventuresome. However, the number of overcast, rainy,grey days in September make me glad to come back to the Sunshine State.

I spent a lovely, relaxing day with NPC president Donna Fiala at her get-away "country cottage" in Amish Country, Berlin,Ohio.

We had lunch at a charming, traditional Amish restaurant, toured a cheese factory and a most unique museum dedicated to beautifully hand-carved miniature trains

Oh yes, we also toured a chocolate factory - reminiscent of the Lucille Ball TV episode when she tried to keep up with the chocolates on the conveyor belt - while eating as many as she could. 

Speaking of Lucille Ball, I am now in the Guinness Book of World Records as one of 915 people dressed like her during the August LucyFest celebration of her 100th birthday in her hometown, Jamestown,N.Y !

For details click on : www.today.msnbc.msn.com/id/44050891

Has anyone seen the movie "Page One - Inside the New York Times "? It's a documentary about the Times newsroom, the changing media landscape and the future of Journalism. The Times David Carr, media columnist and culture reporter and executive editor Bill Keller, present the pros and cons of old and new journalism - and the effect it is having on the The Gray Lady. . See it . It's fascinating
www.pageoneinsidethenewyorktimes.com

What's happening in Journalism at FGCU?
Lyn Millner, journalism prof, FGCU reminds us: "Stay on top of all-things-journalism at FGCU.

http://www.facebook.com/fgcujournalism

"Like" our Facebook page to learn about events, internships, opportunities and announcements. You can also post your own FGCU journalism-related announcements and opportunities for our students. Spread the word."

And a must read: "Bulletins from the Future - a Special report on the News Industry " in July 9th issue of "The Economist." This in-depth 12-page tome details the theory that " the Internet has turned the news industry upside down, making it more participatory, social, diverse and partisan --as it used to be before the arrival of the mass media" . Contents include articles on "How newspapers are faring; Making news Pay; Social Media; WikiLeaks and other newcomers; Impartiality and The end of mass media.

Thanxx to Bob Bair for sharing this quote:
"While there are many different roads that we take in life.
It is those who walk with us that make the journey worthwhile."

I hope to hear more from NPC members telling SCOOP about what's going on in their lives: professionally and personally. Write me about your books, autograph parties, family happenings, tid-bits overheard at Happy Hours. You get the drift. I aim to make the coming issues of SCOOP more about NPC members, their backgrounds and current activities.

It's only possible with your help. Contact me at lajollalulu@aol.com