BUFFALO, N.Y. – This Christmas, a family here may keep a closer eye on their statue of baby Jesus. Last year someone plucked it from the nativity scene in their front yard and spent eight months traveling the state, returning it complete with plenty of photos of where it had been.

“When we tell people about it, they just look at us and say, ‘Wow, that really happened?’ ” Joan Leising said. “Then, we show them the photo album.”

The statue was taken Dec. 23, and a note – promising to return the baby Jesus in three days – was left in the statue’s place.

Eight months later, Joan’s husband, John Leising, opened the front door and found the statue on his porch, along with a photo album that showed images of the figurine in front of highway signs in Binghamton, Rochester, Albany and Poughkeepsie.

It was photographed at the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, and posed on a bicycle, on a horse, in a car wearing a seat belt, in a chair next to a campfire and in someone’s kitchen.

A note enclosed, signed “Creators of the baby Jesus chronicles,” assured the family that the prank was not intended to be “blasphemous or disrespectful.”

The Leisings were glad to have their statue back, but remained confused as to why it was missing for so long since the statue-nappers promised it would be returned in three days.

“The real Jesus Christ would have forgiven them for that,” John Leising said. “And we do, too.”

Today is the annual St. Clair basketball game.
It’s been a while since I have played Basketball. The last time was last Alumni Game. I could be a little rusty. I figure by the time I get “in the zone” the game will be over and I will have been lit up for 20 points by who ever I am guarding.

On a positive note it will be great to see everyone again. It’s good to hear that so many people are getting on with their lives and pursuing their dreams.

My prediction for this year is that we get spanked. Not because we lack talent but because all the players will have packed on about 20 pounds. Damn I hate getting old.