The face of Habitat is changing: The next project in the area probably will be a multi-family structure in Ellenton.  Habitat is getting into, "Restores", where volunteers retrieve building components and furniture from structures that are knocked down for one purpose or the other, and then sell these components.  They have a special need for warehousing - something that our realtor members might be able to help with.

You don't have to pound nails to be a volunteer.  There are many other jobs we can help with and still keep our thumbs intact.  Habitat for Humanity, 1005 3rd Ave W, Palmetto, 723-3319.

Alas, we learn that Jimmy Carter did not start Habitat for Humanity (but, he probably has more than enough sweat equity to qualify for a home when the peanut crop fails).

November 17

Scott Kallins, Attorney, Lacrosse Devotee

Mr. Kallins filled us in on the sport of lacrosse; its history and its growth in youth, high school and college sports programs. The game descended from various versions of the stick-ball games played by Indians from all parts of the U.S.  Originally called various names, including, "Bagggattaway" ("they bump hips", Algonquin) or,  "Tewaarathon" ("little brother of war", Iroquois) - depending on one's view of life.  Reputedly,  those games had few, if any, rules; were played between two goals (trees, for example) that usually were between 500 yards and a half mile apart; and involved as many as 1000 players at one time.  The Indians in Oklahoma created an interesting wrinkle by attaching lead weights to the heads of their sticks (they take their field games seriously out there).  That may have been when the first rule was established.

Today, there ten players on a men's team and twelve on a women's.  The men are more heavily armored since they can hack away with their sticks above the waist; the women, less so, since the can't hack with the sticks (but, they do body-check with them-which can get kind of wicked).  The playing area is roughly the size of a football field and extends beyond the crease, just as in hockey.  If you want your boy to play, he will need: a helmet ($50-$100), a stick with a head ($75-$140), cleats ($80), gloves ($70-$150) and a jock ($30).  Girls get off a lot cheaper (see photo, below).  The game is continuous, strenuous and involves a lot of hand-eye coordination.

There are about 50 high school teams in Florida.  The University of Florida has recently initiated lacrosse as a varsity sport.  If you want your kids or school to get involved, or just want to beat on someone with a stick, call Scott (749-1446), or contact one of the people, below: