An area writer was recently honored by the Friends of Bloomsburg University Library Association for his achievement in writing.

Gene Duffy, a Jim Thorpe native, was recognized for his book "As The Matzo Ball Turns," during the 12th Annual Author's Dinner, held at Bloomsburg University's Alumni House on April 4."Each year one Pennsylvania author/writer is selected by the board from a group of nominees to speak at the annual author's dinner and is recognized for his achievement in writing," Duffy said recently. "My speech focused on a life of not quite fitting in and included my personal background and experiences in sports, entertainment and politics."Of course, a good chunk of the oration focused on my trials and tribulations of trying to make it to the Hollywood A-list while working as a waiter in a popular Jewish Deli."In honor of his book, the dinner featured matzo ball soup.In addition, a few students from Bloomsburg University were also recognized for their on-campus achievements and rewarded with donations from the Library Association.Duffy is a 1991 graduate of Pennsylvania State University, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering and was a walk-on member of the Penn State Football team under then Coach Joe Paterno.Following graduation, he played semi-pro football for the Fresno Bandits as a tight end for two and a half years, and with the Arizona Rattlers Arena football team for a half season. He then moved to Hollywood to pursue a career in acting and writing.During his time in Hollywood, which is the basis for his book, Duffy penned a number of screenplays; produced, directed, wrote and starred in an independent film, "Living with Uncle Ray"; and was elected to join the Republican Central Committee of Los Angeles.Duffy returned to his hometown of Jim Thorpe and began his memoir "As The Matzo Ball Turns," under the pen name Jozef Rothstein. The book has also been adapted into a musical, which is currently in development.