Happy 85th Birthday, Joseph Vincent Paterno!
The big man hits 85 today, and everyone at BSD wishes him a happy, healthy day. Joe has had a rough couple of months, so hopefully this birthday and holiday season finds him in the company of family and other loved ones.
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HAPPY BIRFDAY JOEPA!
I, for one, plan to continue my life long contempt for the powers that be and I fully expect to be disappointed with whatever choice is made. ~PSUgirl
Happy b-day, coach!
"Every player we have, someone-maybe a parent, a grandparent, someone-poured their soul into that young man. They are handing that young man off to us. They are giving us their treasure, and it's our job to make sure we give them back that young man intact and ready to face the world."
-J.V.Pa.
by psume06 on Dec 21, 2011 6:40 AM EST reply actions 5 recs
Former Players, led by Lydell Mitchell, organize a Letter of Support
Both Joe Paterno & Lydell Mitchell are in the College Football Hall of Fame. Free FOS article here and link to the wordpress copy of the letter here, where you can see all the former players who have signed it. Pasted text of the letter here:
As members of the Penn State Community, we are deeply saddened by the allegations against Jerry Sandusky, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families. Given the allegations against Sandusky, we understand the public’s outrage because we share it.
At the same time, however, it’s important to remember that all of the facts surrounding this troubling matter are not known. Until all of the facts are known and due process has run its course, we ask that the public reserve judgment about Joe Paterno and the Penn State community.
Having known Coach Paterno for many years, we can say with certainty that Joe Paterno is a remarkable man and that Penn State is a remarkable institution. Joe has had a profound effect on the lives of almost every member of the Penn State family. Joe has taught Penn State faith, fairness, philanthropy and the importance of academic excellence – all values that make Penn State a great institution today.
Penn State’s new president recently said that he wants the university to be known as a great research institution. In fact, the institution that Joe helped build is much larger than a single coach or team. Penn State is 94,300 students on 24 campuses. We are Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Dickinson School of Law and Smeal College of Business. We are the world’s largest dues-paying alumni association. We are home of the world’s largest student run philanthropic organization. We are the University that has raised over $500,000, to date, for victims of child abuse during its darkest hour.
We are much more than just one man or one sport. We are a great research institution today and a university that prepares all of its graduates for success in many different fields.
Many in the Penn State community view the public’s rush to judgment of Joe as a rush to judgment of everything Penn State. We ask for due process for Joe Paterno and the Penn State community. Based on the immense quality of Joe’s character and the absence of all the facts, we stand in support of Joe and Penn State.
The Penn State Football Family
jtothetweet
Make sure this dead horse doesn't move while I go get my beatin' stick.
by jtothep on Dec 21, 2011 6:51 AM EST reply actions 13 recs
What is interesting to me
are the names that do not appear on the list. Many of the current NFL Penn Staters have not signed it. Does not necessarily mean they were all asked and refused, but oh well.
I noticed that too
and some of the more well known older players did not sign as well. That saddened me a bit. But the good news is, they did SOMETHING positive. Let’s take it for what it’s worth – a step in the right direction!
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and though we are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven; that which we are, We Are - Tennyson
meh
most of the younger guys that signed it arent playing in the NFL right now, so I dont think its a big thing. Maybe they didnt have time. Maybe they didnt want to. I tend to think it was the former rather than the latter, since I’m sure guys like Tamba and Poz and Lee would support Joe. Probably more just a timing thing. Also to consider, I’m not sure how they got this letter around, but everyone’s contact info might not have been readily available. Just a thought. I dont think its a big deal.
I'm on the Internet cause I'm an Internet thug.
#OccupyESPN
Follow @134Lounge
Stefan signed it
Gets a lot of extra points in my book. The letter is great.
but, so did his dad and uncle
so he would be easier to find IMO. I also thought it interesting that Kerry Collins didn’t sign, as he has endowed the QB scholarship for years.
Are Anthony Adams & Jeremy Boone the only current NFLers on the list?
Fire Dan Snyder
Are either or them still playing?
I thought Adams got cut. Or retired. Or maybe just traded. Not sure. And who does Boone play for?
I'm on the Internet cause I'm an Internet thug.
#OccupyESPN
Follow @134Lounge
Boone just got resigned to a team this year, he had been trying out and made a team
I don’t remember who he plays for, but he was just playing last week.
Adams is still a member of the Bears, and he’s still on the active roster. He has been held out for a few weeks but I don’t think it was ever publicized why.
Fire Dan Snyder
Boone does not appear to be on an NFL roster
Is it possible you’re thinking of (the other Jeremy) Kapinos, who re-signed with the Steelers earlier this year? He is currently Pittsburgh’s starting punter.
The depth of both my sadness and anger is unfathomable.
We (Still) Are...
I think you are correct, I'm pretty sure I was thinking of Kapinos
those Jeremy punters get me all confused :/
Fire Dan Snyder
by Cari Greene on Dec 21, 2011 10:52 AM EST up reply actions
There's a good chance I missed a few
Gerald Cadogan (CFL), Bryant Johnson (Texans), M-Rob (Seahawks), Bryan Scott (Bills), Mickey Shuler (Vikings), Stefen Wisniewski (Raiders)
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and though we are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven; that which we are, We Are - Tennyson
Was Quarless on there?
Didn’t notice Hamm on there either, but he is an employee/independent contractor of PSU.
11/9/11 - the day the music died.
The bitter with the better.
by Esteban d' Amur on Dec 21, 2011 8:33 AM EST up reply actions
No.
He’s busy beating every other team in the NFL (except when they visit KC and Tamba kicks Roger’s butt)
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and though we are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven; that which we are, We Are - Tennyson
I wouldn't read much into the absence of certain players' signatures
You’re talking about a huge group of people spread far and wide with limited time and obvious logistical obstacles to obtaining sign offs. We should not infer that a player does not endorse the letter’s message simply because his name does not appear on the list .
The depth of both my sadness and anger is unfathomable.
We (Still) Are...
What did Ham say?
If anything. I was surprised he wasn’t outspoken in defense of Paterno.
I don't know..
that I’ve seen any statements from him and not sure if he said anything on the radio broadcasts.
11/9/11 - the day the music died.
The bitter with the better.
by Esteban d' Amur on Dec 21, 2011 9:19 AM EST up reply actions
I know and understand. I'm just sayin...
There has been a noticible lack of support from Joe from the football family, with a few awesome exceptions, and this has been dissapointing, understandable, but dissapointing. I would have hoped that they would all be able to take a few minutes, at the very least, to show some love for the man who got them to where they are now. I wish I was someone well known and had a voice that the world would listen to. I would be all over the place right now speaking the truth, regardless of the cost. It’s frustrating to see those who have that voice say nothing. That’s all.
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and though we are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven; that which we are, We Are - Tennyson
I agree with this.
I was just reading an article the other day where Pos was saying he didn’t think he would even feel comfortable wearing PSU gear now. Of course that was written on Nov 10th or so, so he could have changed his mind since then.
But, overall, I am surprised at the lack of support for the Coach.
Seeing Todd Blackledge on there
was a great feeling.
.....that which we are, WE ARE;
One equal temper of heroic hearts
by SarcasmJam on Dec 21, 2011 9:06 AM EST up reply actions 6 recs
AGREED!
But I was kind of surprised at Millen’s absense, based on his emotional video interview.
Fire Dan Snyder
by Cari Greene on Dec 21, 2011 10:53 AM EST up reply actions
I was surprised by
alot of missing players, but the article on SI says that they are trying to get more players in the next couple days.
Yet another reason to love Graham Zug.
I’ll tell you why. Because we’re talking about Joe Freaking Paterno here.
-Jitterbug
by leeharvey418 on Dec 21, 2011 10:58 AM EST up reply actions 4 recs
I hate to break this to you
but Graham got engaged. He announced it on Twitter.
I’m an aspiring Joe Paterno Apologist®
He was too much man for me anyway.
Not to mention, too much a man.
I’ll tell you why. Because we’re talking about Joe Freaking Paterno here.
-Jitterbug
by leeharvey418 on Dec 21, 2011 7:32 PM EST up reply actions
In case you haven't noticed
More signatures have appeared during the morning. It’s up to 414 as of right now.
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and though we are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven; that which we are, We Are - Tennyson
by belbijou on Dec 21, 2011 12:27 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Happy Birthday Coach Paterno!
…hope you got my card.
"a Pride of Lions that is Penn State football. All of us - players, coaches, students, alumni & fans - are in the Pride. And once in, you never get out." - Jay Paterno
by double_e33 on Dec 21, 2011 7:42 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy BDay, Hope there are more
But an 85 year old with cancer and and broken hip (and a broken heart), another isn’t guaranteed. Time to ignore the lawyers and speak out and try to save/repair whats left of your and the schools reputation.
Happy Birthday COACH
I will have a glass of old grandad for you tonight
Reporter: Can you give us a touchdown celebration, one that you would get penalized for?
Moye: I play at Penn State. I don’t celebrate.
by psupride on Dec 21, 2011 7:59 AM EST reply actions 6 recs
Happy Birthday, Joe
we will always love you and be grateful to you for your years of dedication to this school and program. You will be missed on campus, and on the sideline on Saturdays.
Best wishes on your recovery! WE ARE still with you!
Fire Dan Snyder
by Cari Greene on Dec 21, 2011 8:06 AM EST reply actions 6 recs
Happy Birthday Joe.
Hope you get better soon.
I'm on the Internet cause I'm an Internet thug.
#OccupyESPN
Follow @134Lounge
by skarocksoi on Dec 21, 2011 8:07 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy birthday Coach!
Hope you feel better soon.
by psu-bio91 on Dec 21, 2011 8:12 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Exactly one year from today, Joe Paterno will turn 86 and the Mayan calendar will end… Coincidence? HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOE!
by psu_law on Dec 21, 2011 8:42 AM EST reply actions 5 recs
Happy Birthday, Joe
We miss you! Have a Merry Christmas, too!
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and though we are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven; that which we are, We Are - Tennyson
by belbijou on Dec 21, 2011 8:59 AM EST reply actions 5 recs
Happy Birthday Coach!
God Bless you and aid you in your recovery!
.....that which we are, WE ARE;
One equal temper of heroic hearts
by SarcasmJam on Dec 21, 2011 9:03 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy Birthday
Praying for a quick recovery and a long, enjoyable and hopefully only semi-retirement.
by FB6244 on Dec 21, 2011 9:15 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Rick Sayles signed it
To me that speaks volumes about Joe.
I suck 'em down like Coca-Cola.
by ATLion on Dec 21, 2011 9:33 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
Rick Sayles signing the letter
While I am less than objective on your topic, I am not surprised that Rick signed it. In the past few years, Rick has become a close personal friend of mine and he is like family to my wife and kids as well. He has always supported Coach Paterno, the university and Coach’s actions in what happened to him. It made Rick a stronger, better person. He is a fantastic man who is very giving and got a bad rep from what happened almost 20 years ago. The media skewered him as well, certainly not to the extent of these tragic events. His work with inner-city youth over the years has been impressive. I see him at every home game and we spoke for a bit during the Nebraska game about everything that has transpired. He bleeds blue, white, and JoePa without a doubt. Thank you for noticing he signed it.
"Black Shoes. Basic Blues. No Names."
by Rummeypsu1 on Dec 21, 2011 3:26 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Happy Birthday Big Guy
Did anyone catch what Bowden said? I can’t believe Joe defended him for so long
Believe deep down in your heart that you are destined to do great things
by farrellpsu on Dec 21, 2011 9:37 AM EST reply actions 2 recs
Color me shocked--shocked, I tell you--that BB would throw a long-time supporter under the bus.
"Every time you go to that cook-off you get drunk as a poet on payday!"
He got on his high horse
said"I would have found that guy(sandusky) and asked him if it was true, then I would tell him to get out of here and never come back, then I would have called the police. I think that’s what I would have done" then probably threw up bunch of daggums in there I hope Sue gives him a call and lets him have it
Believe deep down in your heart that you are destined to do great things
Would bb
have told him to get out of here and never come back if sandusky told him “nothing happened” or denied it?
Someone should ask bowden instead what he’d of done if jimbo fisher would have been accused of it…much easier for bb to say what he’d of done in respect to Sandusky, but he probably isn’t smart enough to actually think “if it were one of my assistants”
Yes I know I didn’t capitalize his initials, because I don’t respect him enough to do that, kind of like I refer to to$u and e$pn. No respect= no capitalization!
by va2pennstate on Dec 21, 2011 10:12 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Right
If there’s anything we know about Bobbay,
he was principled and never allowed any shenanigans to take place on his watch.
"WHY IS EVERYONE THE FREAKING STUPID?" BMAN13
by kijana's acl on Dec 21, 2011 10:17 AM EST up reply actions
Dadgum free shoes dadgum
365 beers from 365 different breweries in 365 days. Game on.
http://www.blognamedbrew.blogspot.com/
by Tailgate Shogun on Dec 21, 2011 4:24 PM EST up reply actions
Happy Birthday JoePa!
My family is 2 generations of Penn State and we all love and support you.
by spikey on Dec 21, 2011 9:44 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy birthday, Coach!
And here’s to many more. We’re not ready for you to go, old man! :)
by michellemtsu on Dec 21, 2011 9:55 AM EST via mobile reply actions 4 recs
Happy b-day, Coach!
You know what they say…85 is the new 65.
"Every time you go to that cook-off you get drunk as a poet on payday!"
by DrewRusse on Dec 21, 2011 9:57 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy Birthday Coach
JoePa will always be the best coach in the history of college football, regardless of what anyone else thinks.
by LDRB on Dec 21, 2011 9:59 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy Birthday Joe
From a high school baseball coach who has used and often quoted your models, values, and beliefs in my program for years and has already told my administration, players, and parents that it will not change.
by va2pennstate on Dec 21, 2011 10:13 AM EST reply actions 5 recs
Happy Birthday JVP!
Your legacy will live on from those of us who don’t rush to judgement and won’t demand immediate actions without all the facts.
Thank You.
Get Well Soon.
Settle it on the field!
by PSUncle1981 on Dec 21, 2011 10:16 AM EST reply actions 5 recs
Happy birthday Coach!
Hoping you have another 85 years ahead of you!
Follow my antics: @djv5030
Its the name on the front of the jersey that matters most, not the one on the back. -Joe Paterno
by Dan Vecellio on Dec 21, 2011 10:33 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy Birthday JoePa!
Thank you for everything and hopefully the next year brings you better health and some form of peace!
by mleepsu08 on Dec 21, 2011 10:42 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy Birthday, Dear JoePa!
God bless you today and always. You will forever be a part of My PSU memories. Enjoy the day & the Holidays with your family. We love you :-)
by PghNittany on Dec 21, 2011 10:49 AM EST reply actions 3 recs
Happy Birthday, Joe
Sending you many well wishes on this day. May your legacy live on through continued and greater success of your Grand Experiment!
"In the beginning the Universe was created. This has made a lot of people very angry and been widely regarded as a bad move."
#OccupyESPN
by IcersGuy on Dec 21, 2011 10:59 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy Birthday, Coach
No matter what some bastards say, you’re still a hero to a lot of people.
I’ll tell you why. Because we’re talking about Joe Freaking Paterno here.
-Jitterbug
by leeharvey418 on Dec 21, 2011 11:02 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Cam Williams wishes "The greatest coach to ever live"
a happy bday on twitter. Doesn’t sound like someone wavering, does it?
Leaders Co-Champions
by PSUinBOSSton on Dec 21, 2011 11:33 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
Happy Birthday JVP
All the way from merry old England. The media might be turning on you because that is the flavour of the month but your teachings and ideals have reached and touched more people than he could ever have imagined.
by Blokee on Dec 21, 2011 11:59 AM EST reply actions 4 recs
...and another wish from England as well
Happy Birthday, Coach Paterno! You will always be “Coach Paterno” despite the actions of a rash BoT.
Have a Merry Christmas as well, and Happy New Year, and enjoy every special day you coming! :)
Since you have too much class to say this yourself, I’ll quote Hilaire Belloc’s famous Xmas verse in your honor:
May all good fellows that here agree
Drink Audit Ale in heaven with me,
And may all my enemies go to hell!
Noel! Noel! Noel! Noel!
May all my enemies go to hell!
Noel! Noel!
#1 Flyers fan in England (originally from Southeastern PA)
by Orange and Black Forever on Dec 21, 2011 12:20 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Happy Birthday!
I’m glad that you can enjoy your birthday from your own home with your family and hope that your treatments continue to keep the cancer in check. We all await the day when the whole truth comes out so that you can be vindicated for the reactionary misguided actions of others. Your doubters will continue to doubt no matter what but please know that many of us believe in you and your grand experiment.
Stop blaming Joe -- media mobs!
Nominate - Elect Franco Harris, Brandon Short, Jimmy Cefalo to BoT (and vote out incumbents for next three years)
by OlderBudweiser on Dec 21, 2011 12:11 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Another thing...
Has everyone seen this shirt?
http://www.pennstateroom.com/product-detail/2974
I’ve already ordered one for myself. Perhaps others would like to do the same. (If you click on the picture, you see what is said on the front and back.)
#1 Flyers fan in England (originally from Southeastern PA)
by Orange and Black Forever on Dec 21, 2011 1:28 PM EST reply actions
Bought it for my husband and uncle for Christmas.
(and maybe for myself too). I love it.
by mleepsu08 on Dec 21, 2011 1:51 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
My husband and I both have one
And plan to wear it often
Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and though we are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven; that which we are, We Are - Tennyson
by belbijou on Dec 21, 2011 2:28 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I also like this one, which MRob recently rocked
http://brosliketheseshirts.spreadshirt.com/bro-paterno-A6647665
I’m an aspiring Joe Paterno Apologist®
by letsgopsu on Dec 21, 2011 5:15 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Happy Birthday Joe.
Thank you for a lifetime of great memories.
Thank you for being an example of what’s right in the world.
Thank you for you tireless and selfless efforts that have made my alma mater the best
public university in the country.
Thank you for showing grace, courage, and class in the face of such cowardice from the
public, the media, and the very institution that YOU helped build.
by Ab4PSU on Dec 21, 2011 4:02 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Happy Birthday Joe
You have always been a hero to me and my family. Kick cancer’s ass. I know we all look forward to seeing you again.
I’m an aspiring Joe Paterno Apologist®
by letsgopsu on Dec 21, 2011 5:16 PM EST reply actions 4 recs
To all those who sent emails....
Thank you! They are much appreciated. He’s getting better and stronger by the day.
If anyone would like to send an email: messages4joe @ gmail.com
by LeLion on Dec 21, 2011 6:38 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
I sent mine a couple of days ago. I am very pleased that he is reading (or at least being notified about) them.
You are a true hero, JVP.
#1 Flyers fan in England (originally from Southeastern PA)
by Orange and Black Forever on Dec 21, 2011 6:46 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Happy Birthday Coach Paterno
You will always be my Coach JoePa. Much health and happiness in the coming weeks and months
Go kick caners ass, then go prove you did the correct thing and kick ass in the courtrooms.
God Bless, and Fight On State!!
Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose - Janis Joplin
by AriesGD on Dec 21, 2011 7:39 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Happy birthday, JoePa!
You will always be our coach! And we will continue to pray for you…
It is what it is...
by tadhg on Dec 21, 2011 9:08 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Happy Birthday!
Buy some balloons, take a trip to Paradise Falls. Weather should be great this time of year.
by psuCHI on Dec 21, 2011 9:13 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
HAPPY Birthday JOE!
ALLLLLLLL +1
"Publicity is like poison. It doesn't hurt unless you swallow it."
Joe Paterno
by The Heel on Dec 22, 2011 3:42 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
We can support our fine coach on FB now too:
http://www.facebook.com/ISupportJoePaterno
#1 Flyers fan in England (originally from Southeastern PA)
by Orange and Black Forever on Dec 22, 2011 11:10 AM EST reply actions
Thank you JOE
for enabling a child molester to run around campus molesting boys for 30 years.
Thank you RUMPLE
for being an dickbag! May you get a giant, heaping bag of SUCK IT for Christmas
I, for one, plan to continue my life long contempt for the powers that be and I fully expect to be disappointed with whatever choice is made. ~PSUgirl
by jman07 on Dec 23, 2011 9:06 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Well said.
Flag him as well.
#1 Flyers fan in England (originally from Southeastern PA)
by Orange and Black Forever on Dec 23, 2011 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
...

I’ll tell you why. Because we’re talking about Joe Freaking Paterno here.
-Jitterbug
by leeharvey418 on Dec 23, 2011 9:38 AM EST up reply actions
Usually when it comes to him I can
but this, well, this just needed to be said. And I toned it down from what my actual feelings are. But you are correct.
I, for one, plan to continue my life long contempt for the powers that be and I fully expect to be disappointed with whatever choice is made. ~PSUgirl
by jman07 on Dec 23, 2011 9:42 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs

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