At The Schott

Update from the Schott. Buckeyes win! Buckeyes win! View from the company suite. Oh yes...we are way too important to mingle with the common fan.

Happy New Year!

Just wanted to wish everyone a happy new year. Lisa and I are off to half price books, then to Tommy's Pizza for dinner, then to the Schott for the Ohio State vs. Iowa men's basketball game. Should be home by 8:00 tonight to bring in the new year.

New Dogs

This is Jerry Lee....


This is Jesse...

They are the newest puppies in the family. Amanda has them at school in Wooster, Ohio. They come from our pastor's home. They just adopted two babies and didn't have time for the doggies. What's a couple of more dogs in the family when there are already 2 greyhounds, 2 rats, and a parrot!

From the greyhound rescue front, we will probably get another foster in January or so. Hopefully it will take away the sting of losing Jackie. I still miss him and think of him often.

Jack

We received very sad news last night. Jack, our foster greyhound that moved to his new home just a few days ago, has been hit by a car and has died. Apparently his new adoptive family was visiting for Christmas in Toledo and he escaped through a garage, ran into the road, and was struck and killed.

It is all such a sad situation. He was such a special boy and had finally made it home. He deserved so much more than this. It is all so hard to understand. We feel especially bad for the young couple that adopted him. They were so happy and had bought him a sweater, toys, etc. They fixed the fence in their yard. They joked that they were going to tell their parent that this was their child. They have to be feeling as bad as we are today. Our heart goes out to them.

For all of you greyhound folks out there please remember to be extra watchful with your dogs. Know where they are when the door opens. Make sure they have a harness and make sure they wear it when they are away from home. Apparently someone tried to catch Jack by his collar and he just simply slipped out of it.

Jack just loved to run. That was his life for the 4+ years he was on the track. He loved to run in the backyard. He just wanted to run. It helps to know that he died doing what he loved to do. It also helps to know that he had about 5 months of living the life a dog was meant to have. He loved to play. He loved the couch. We loved him

As I write this morning the wind is blowing the greyhound chimes on the back porch. It's almost as if Jack is saying goodbye this morning. Letting us know that his is in a better place. Truly in his forever home.



Don't Mourn Too Long.


When it’s time for me to go
And we have said farewell
Please don’t mourn for me too long
But try to sing as well.

Sing about the happy times
And let the sad ones go
Fill your heart with joyful thoughts
For life’s too short you know!

Speak of me with fondness and….
Recall our special days
Hold dear those happy memories
That time cannot erase.

Each wouldn’t wish we’d never met
Tho’ now we’ve had to part
So walk again the paths we trod
But not with heavy heart.

Don’t close the door upon my life
Just because I’ve gone
In your heart …and in mine too
Our friendship will live on.

Should you prepare a grave for me
To lay my soul to rest
A simple headstone with my name
Is what I’d like the best.

Or if my ashes you’d prefer
To scatter far and wide
You’ll watch the breeze bear me away…
Yet feel me by your side.


Be happy that our lives we shared
On sadness do not dwell
Maybe shed a tear or two
But will you sing as well?

New Greyhound Book

Found a new book out there for the Greyhound fans! Greyhounds by Barbara Karant is out and appears to be a Greyt coffee table book of cute hound photos. A couple of which are shown here. More info can be found Right Here!






I believe a portion of the book's proceeds help to benefit Greyhound adoption. Her words:

The fluid lines and quiet grace of the retired racing greyhound were the inspiration for Greyhounds. But these photos have an agenda that goes beyond simply capturing the unassuming elegance of this breed: It is my hope that the spirit of the breed paid homage to in my photographs will ultimately be instrumental in assisting with the rescue efforts of the hundreds of greyhound rescue groups across the country and around the world.
Each year thousands of young and healthy purebred greyhounds are in need of homes. Most have worked the first 2-5 years of their lives as fine-tuned athletes and then, in some cases, after leaving the racetrack, go on to be used for breeding. Female greyhounds generally range in weight from 50-65 lbs. and the males weigh between 65-85 lbs. The size spectrum is vast however, and you can see anything between a 45 lb. female and a 95-pound male. There are 18 “official” greyhound colors, however their color variation is remarkable as well as stunning. The life span of a healthy greyhound is 12-14 years.


Despite their rigorous pre-retirement routine, they remain easygoing, spirited and loyal. They are extraordinary in their ability to transition from life at the track to life in a home with seemingly very little effort. They have a loving spirit, as well as a humorous disposition which when nurtured can bring great pleasure to their human companions, both young and old alike. Most greyhounds are extremely sociable, possessed of an amazing intelligence sensitivity and gentleness. Some are independent; others choose always to be at your side, while others are shy and reserved. However no matter the temperament, they are completely dedicated to their guardians. As a breed, they are eager to please and infinitely trainable with a patient and gentle hand. Greyhounds are demonstrative and affectionate. They are very adaptable and although they share many similar qualities; there is as infinite a range of personalities among the breed, as the range of their coloration. No matter what a prospective adopter’s age, gender, family situation or other pets, there is sure to be a greyhound that can be found to be well suited for their home environment: urban, suburban, or rural.

There are approximately 450 greyhound adoption groups in the United States and many more abroad. They are all staffed by remarkably committed volunteers who work tirelessly to assist in the placement of these dogs into loving homes. Through the efforts of these volunteers approximately 18,000 of these wonderful dogs are adopted annually when their racing careers are over. However, there is always a replenished supply of dogs to take their place as active racers who will in turn eventually ”grade off” at the racetrack and then be in need of homes themselves. With greater exposure of the breed and a larger adoption base, the hope is that eventually all these dogs can be adopted after their tenure at the racetrack and the breeding farms is over.

Greyhounds rescue groups all have a diversity of policy, approach and politics but they are unified and can agree on one fact: the retired racing greyhound is one of the most remarkable dogs on the planet and that they are a fantastic option for anyone looking to adopt a life-long companion. Any of these adoption groups would be happy to discuss the merits of the breed and answer any of your questions. Whether you live on the east coast or west, in Canada, Europe or Australia you can find a greyhound rescue group who can help you find your new family member. If you live in a state that supports greyhound racing some of the racetracks also have adoption programs. If you live in a state or country with no racetracks there are always groups who transport the dogs in from a state that has racing and breeding and they can still assist you in finding a dog. The good news and the bad news is that greyhounds are plentiful and relatively easy to find.

If the time is not right to add a greyhound to your household please consider volunteering with a local adoption group. A non-profit organization can never have too much assistance. If that is not an option for you, please consider a donation. Most of the adoption groups can only survive through endowments, fundraisers and donations from the public and their previous adopters. There is a never-ending need for money to go along with the never-ending supply of dogs. If neither of the previous are within your ability, then please just tell the next person who tells you they are thinking about getting a dog that a greyhound is a wonderful companion opportunity and that they should consider a greyhound as an option. This is your opportunity to help the breed and enrich someone’s life in the process. Nothing can be more gratifying than that.

Snow In Las Vegas

Got back from a trip to Las Vegas yesterday. I had a meeting with my team there, and happened to pick the exact day that Las Vegas had the most snow they have had in 30 years. It was pretty, but it became apparent that the city was in no way ready for what had happened. No plows, no salt, no de-icing equipment, and a closed airport. We all got out...some later than others. Maybe we will have our next meeting in Maine in January. It will probably be 90 degrees!

I didn't take this picture, but I saw this exact scene on the way to dinner on Wednesday night.

Greyt News

News on the greyhound adoption front. Jack, our foster greyhound friend, had a home visit last weekend. All went well, and we got a call last night that the young couple we visited want to adopt him. Great news for Jack, but kind of bittersweet for us. He had been with us since labor day weekend.

He will go to his forever home this Wednesday while I am on the road in Las Vegas. It's easier that way for me. I left the house this morning after saying goodbye.

I just need to remember that by letting him go we save another later. So, 5 years and 216 races later, surviving at one of the worst greyhound tracks in the nation, Jackie goes home. Good luck my friend!

Jack's pedigree can be found here

WOOF WOOF

Oh a greyhound's life. How tough it is!

Denver Colorado

In Denver this week. in fact, on my way home this afternoon. The weather here has been crazy. I got in on Tusday and is was in the 60's. Yesterday the temperature dropped to 20, and this morning we are getting 4 to 8 inches of snow. the flight back to the Buckeye Nation is on time...for now.

In the middle of the last travel push before Christmas to see as many stores as we can. Long Island next week. Following that is a trip to Las Vegas...and then vacation!

Brendan Foster

What can you say after you watch this? How would you react if you knew you were going to die? What an inspiring story.

What Is The Reason For The Season?

Worker dies at Long Island Wal-Mart after being trampled in Black Friday stampede
BY JOE GOULD
DAILY NEWS WRITER

Updated Friday, November 28th 2008, 9:30 AM

A worker died after being trampled and a woman miscarried when hundreds of shoppers smashed through the doors of a Long Island Wal-Mart Friday morning, witnesses said.

The unidentified worker, employed as an overnight stock clerk, tried to hold back the unruly crowds just after the Valley Stream store opened at 5 a.m.

Witnesses said the surging throngs of shoppers knocked the man down. He fell and was stepped on. As he gasped for air, shoppers ran over and around him.

"He was bum-rushed by 200 people," said Jimmy Overby, 43, a co-worker. "They took the doors off the hinges. He was trampled and killed in front of me. They took me down too...I literally had to fight people off my back."

Nassau County Police are still investigating and would not confirm the witness accounts. The Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death. Police did say there were several injuries but weren't more specific.

Jessica Keyes was among the shoppers. She told the Daily News she saw a woman knocked down just a few feet from the dying worker.

"When the paramedics came, she said 'I'm pregnant,'" Keyes said.

Paramedics treated the woman inside the store and then, according to Keys, told the woman:

"There's nothing we can do. The baby is gone."

Before police shut down the store, eager shoppers streamed past emergency crews as they worked furiously to save the store clerk's life.

"They were working on him, but you could see he was dead, said Halcyon Alexander, 29. "People were still coming through."

Only a few stopped.

"They're savages," said shopper Kimberly Cribbs, 27. "It's sad. It's terrible."


Why does this need to happen? People have totally lost the reason why we celebrate the Christmas season in the first place. This has become totally commercialized (Ok...I work in retail...I am supposed to support all of this!). People running from store to store spending money they can't afford to spend in the first place. Clerks wishing everyone "Happy Holidays" because we don't dare say Christmas. What does Jesus think? What would he do if he was still on earth? I don't think he would be racing through a WalMart.


One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?" "The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these." (NIV, Mark 12:28-31).

Turkey Day

We had a good turkey day yesterday. Served about 45 at the church and had the whole family there. It was a great day!

Lance Is Back

Great news for the Tour de France and cycling fans everywhere. Lance is back for the 2009 TDF. How do you think he will do? Win number eight perhaps? It will be fun watching the tour again!

Meteor Over Canada

Have you seen this one?


SASKATOON, Saskatchewan (AP) — Scientists say they hope to find remnants of a meteor that brilliantly lit up the sky before falling to earth in western Canada.

University of Calgary planetary scientist Alan Hildebrand called it one of the largest meteors visible in the country in the last decade.

Widely broadcast video images showed what appeared to be a speeding fireball Thursday night over Saskatoon that became larger and brighter before disappearing as it neared the ground.

Hildebrand said Friday that he received about 300 email reports from witnesses.

"It would be something like a billion-watt light bulb," said Hildebrand, who also co-ordinates meteor sightings with the Canadian Space Agency.

Tammy Evans was wakened by her 10-year-old daughter who ran into the bedroom.

"She said there was a flash of light, the house shook twice and it sounded like dinosaurs were walking," Evans said.

Hildebrand suspects it broke up into pieces and he plans to investigate around Macklin, Saskatchewan near the Alberta border.

Rick Huziak, an amateur astronomer in Saskatoon, helped operate a camera on top of the University of Saskatchewan physics building that captured video of the meteor.

"It was quite spectacular. The ground lights up all over the place," he said.

Martin Beech, an associate professor of astronomy at the University of Regina, said meteorites are valuable to learning about the history of the solar system.

"Picking up a meteorite is almost equivalent to doing a space exploration mission between Mars and Jupiter," he said.

42 - 7

Five in a row for the boys in scarlet and gray!

Beat Michigan Day

It is about 30 minutes before the OSU vs. Michigan game today. Ohio State has the better team today, but I have seen all the crazy things that happen in this game every year. Let's just say we have confidence in the Bucks today...and think they will win.

This is the day that a lot of Buckeye fans remember Coach Hayes. I had the opportunity to see him speak one time (at our High School). He certainly was a man that hated to lose, but was a man that had compassion for everyone. A lot of folks remember him for how he left the game, but in Columbus we remember him for the person that he was.

You either loved him...or hated him...but one thing we can all agree on is that he built buckeye football, and we remember him today.

I thought I would share one Woody story I found today:

"One of the best Woody stories that I heard was a few years ago at our 25th reunion of our 1975 team. Former assistant George Hill told us that after beating Michigan that year, Woody was given an armful of roses as he entered the arrival gate, signifying our upcoming trip to the Rose Bowl. When he left the airport, the first place he went was to Riverside Hospital. He took all those roses and passed them out to patients who did not have any visitors that day. I guess it was his way of paying forward. He always said you could never pay back, yet you could always pay forward by helping someone in need. I'm sure those roses uplifted the dampened spirits of the people who received them."

Lou Pietrini, from the book "What It Means to Be a Buckeye"

Wooster

Had a short trip through Cleveland yesterday. Had an opportunity to have dinner with Mom, Dad, and Amanda. We had a good time. Ate at Buehlers.

Hi Amanda! Love you! You and Zack are doing great in school. We are very proud of you!

Baptism

I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else. -- C.S. Lewis

MSNBC

OK... I had to add one more post today after reading the latest rant by Chris Matthews on MSNBC regarding Alaska Gov Sarah Palin. Matthews is apparently troubled by the reference to God in Palin's recent interview regarding her plans for 2012. I am so tired of this guy. I thought he would go away after the recent election coverage. No such luck.

Here is an excerpt from that rant:
MATTHEWS: Okay let me ask Ron [Christie] a final question. Sarah Palin, tonight, in her interview with, with Greta Van Susteren last night, we're actually watching it tonight, on "Hardball," before you came on. She said she was waiting to get the okay from God. Now I have nothing wrong with prayer, I pray all the time. But to talk about that in secular environment. To talk about that in a country which is so broad in its different views of Jesus, in fact, is that a good political move? To talk about God and whether you should run getting the okay from him? Didn't we have enough of that in the last eight years? God leading our politics? Self-selected views of God?

So the questions are:

Is it wrong to talk about prayer in a secular environment? Isn't the government committed to freedom of religion rather than freedom from religion?

What are the different views of Jesus? I know of only one, HE is the Son of God, in the flesh whom was crucified for my sin.

Should she be ashamed of her faith because proclaiming it is not a "good political move"? When is being ashamed of professing your belief for self gain ever acceptable?

If Matthews "prays all the time", wouldn't he ask the Sovereign God if he should run for President, or take a job, or pray for the health of a loved one? For what (or whom) does he pray? Got to wonder.

What is a "self selected" view of God? Other than the selection mentioned in the Bible, what other selections are out there?

Now you know why I don't watch MSNBC. I like the Michael Savage reference to the network being MSLSD.

If you are looking for the link to the article it is found here.

Jesus Christ Superstar

I have posted before about the church plant that we are involved with. Small town, small church..Big Plans! You know, it really is important to remember your roots as the church grows. All too often a growing church forgets its primary purpose of the Great Commission. We need to remind ourselves constantly why we are here and what Christ would want us to do. Our small church just bought a couple of new buildings (a lot of work needs to be done!) and we are embarking on a new chapter in the life of our church. Exciting times. Pictures coming soon. But the church is so much more than a building. We need to remember that.

I ran across this article this morning from a blogger named Greg Atkinson about his pet peeves. Good article. The title to today's post also is a link to his site.


November 17th, 2008

Jesus Christ Superstar

Forgive me in advance: here comes a rant. I have very few pet peeves, but those I have drive me crazy. Today I’d like to share with you 2 of them:

PET PEEVE #1: When I order a softdrink on a flight and they pour it in a cup and keep the rest of the can. What? I’m a big boy. I can drink the whole can. Stop holding back. Moving on…

PET PEEVE #2: Christian leaders and pastors that act like superstars. There are several reasons why this gets under my skin.

First, I’m a networker. I take joy in getting to know other Christian leaders of various postions/roles, denominaitons and church sizes. I love meeting and getting to know people and that’s not going to change no matter how much I think I “make it” one day.

Second, I’m a busy guy who serves on a mega-church staff, has a family, friends, a blog read daily by many people, writes for various websites and magazines, is writing a book, speaks at conferences across the country and still takes the time to respond to the many emails I get from people around the world each day.

Third, I see and know other Church leaders that are even busier, speak and write more and watch as they take time to answer questions, meet local peers in ministry and help others.

Fourth, I serve under an extremely humble Senior Pastor, Pete Briscoe. He’s seen our church go from around 200 people when he arrived, to now over 5000 under his leadership and is still one of the most genuinely humble and down to earth leaders I’ve ever been around. He has a very sensitive spirit and a true humility that makes me proud to know him.

Fifth (I saved the best for last), I look at the example of Christ. Christ washed his disciples feet. He was a servant leader. He touched people that were not supposed to be touched and hung around with people that the religious would not.
If Jesus Christ could be humble, a servant and spend time with people of all types, shouldn’t He be our example? Shouldn’t we try to model after Him?

Now I know there are introverts and extroverts. I know not everyone is a natural networker. I get that.
I do take issue with people that:
Don’t have the decency to respond to an email - even with a “I’m buried right now. I’ll get back to you soon.”

Don’t tell you their name when you meet them and shake their hand - like they assume you know who they are. I host gatherings where people come to meet me and still introduce myself and say, “Hi. I’m Greg Atkinson.” I was impressed when I met Michael W. Smith last year and he stuck out his hand and said, “Hi. I’m Michael.” - that’s a good impression that will always stick with me.

Pastors that are hidden during worship, appear on the stage and then disappear afterwards. My pastor is down at the front, meeting with and praying with people after each service. That impresses me. Someone told me 14 years ago, when I first started in ministry: “Walk slowly through the aisles.” I’ve tried to always remember that.

Pastors that are too busy to be at their own church’s baptism service. They get other staff members to baptize and don’t even attend. Are you kidding me? Have we forgotten what it’s all about and the joy and celebration of seeing people come to Christ and rejoice with them as they publicly profess their faith? Get in the water, dude. Get wet. Get over it. Celebrate. Don’t take it for granted.

Hmmm? Did I miss anything? Anyone got anything to add? Don’t throw rocks!

Find Your Voice

Kind of a simple list from the Glenn Beck show regarding how to get through the hard times we are going through as a country. Some good things to think about:

Find Your Voice List

FIND YOUR VOICE
You are your own voice. Others may be silenced. Who will lead if your guy 'who speaks for you' is gone?

FIND YOURSELF
Who are you really? What do you believe? Have you been pushed and challenged? Do you know where you stand? Can you support it with real facts?

FIND YOUR WEAKNESS
Don’t ignore your weakness. Make your weakness into your strength.

FIND YOUR VALUES
Make it your focus, work at them. Values don’t just ‘happen’ they are developed. A house divided against cannot stand. Be the same person at home, at work, in public and private.

FIND YOUR LOVE
Too much hate has been planted. Uproot it, pull it out and replace it with goodwill for those of different faiths, political party or viewpoints.

FIND YOUR FELLOW AMERICANS
Connect and encourage those who put Constitution and service to God first. Help them wake others.

FIND YOUR JOY
It will not come from places that Americans are encouraged to find it. True joy won’t be found in stores, sex or power. You will need to know where your unlimited supply can be found. Look to your family. Look at selfless service. But you have to find it for yourself.

Give Me Your Eyes

Heard a great song on the radio this morning called "Give Me Your Eyes" by Brandon Heath. You can see the video of it here. Makes you stop and think about what you are really missing as we speed through life.

Give me your eyes for just one second
Give me your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me your love for humanity
Give me your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me your heart for the once forgotten
Give me your eyes so I can see

Have a great week!

Airplane

Finally found some time to post about my recent trip to Houston on American Airlines. Now, I gotta say that American is my favorite carrier right now, but last week's flights were really something. First, on a flight from Chicago to Houston, we had an aborted landing due to cross winds on descent. We were seriously about 10 feet from landing when the pilot pulled up the wheels and shot back to 10,000 feet. Of course that meant that we had an additional 20 minutes of turbulence, all without me taking Dramamine. I imagine that it is stressful for a pilot when this happens as he has to take into account the air traffic around the airport when you are taking an evasive action like this. This is why it probably took him 10 minutes to explain to the passengers what just happened.

The trip back was just as noteworthy. This one was a short hop from Houston to Dallas on a full MD-80. I was in seat 16D (aisle). There was a gentleman in 16E (center seat) that weighed probably 450 pounds. He was too big to sit in the seat with the armrests down. A power lifter, on his way to Las Vegas, we was very nice, but how uncomfortable was this flight! I seriously had to lean into the aisle the whole flight. The flight attendants were really nice and apologetic...plus they gave me two bottles of wine for my trouble. Glad that all of my trips are not like this!

Good news is I don't fly for another two weeks. Staying close to home, and in the car there is no center seat!

It Is Officially Michigan Week

It is officially Michigan week here in the Buckeye Nation. The Wolverines will be in town to get their beating next Saturday at noon. We will be there. Watched the Buckeyes beat Illinois today and Michigan lost at home to Northwestern. What a sad sight in Ann Arbor as the folks in the "Big House" were begging for interference calls in the fourth quarter. How sad. Is this what it has come to for the "Victors"? Begging for calls from the officials in an attempt to snatch a victory from Northwestern at home? Rich Rodriguez? Nice hire. Keep him. The Buckeye Nation waits for you Michigan...come on down.

Doctor's Office - Should We Be Worried?

Ok..sorry this one has taken awhile to get on, but here it is. On Monday of this week I took Lisa to her Dr. appointment out of state. He is a specialist of sorts. Arriving in the exam room we found this supply/instrument holder. Obviously a very expensive piece of medical equipment. Would this give you a sense of confidence? Yep, it's a Craftsman!

Chicago O'Hare

Just a short post while I am in the middle of my layover in O'Hare. Forgot my plane snacks today. Stopped at McDonalds for a couple of ranch wraps. Guy next to me ordered a thing of cinnamon buns and then had the cashier running all over the place looking for skim milk for his coffee??? Love being out here with the traveling public in crowded airports and overcrowded planes. On a good note, here at gate H15, I can see a Starbucks. An oasis in a sea of traveling dispair.
Now some guy has sneezed about 15 times in a row at the next gate....lovely.... I will probably have a cold by the time I land in Houston. See ya'll later.

Post Turtle

While suturing a cut on the hand of a 75 year old rancher, who's hand was caught in the gate while working cattle, the doctor struck up a conversation with the old man. Eventually the topic got around to Obama and his bid to be our president.

The old rancher said, 'Well, ya know, Obama is a 'Post Turtle''.

Not being familiar with the term, the doctor asked him what a 'post turtle' was.

The old rancher said, 'When your driving down a country road you come across a fence post with a turtle balanced on top, that's a 'post turtle'.

The old rancher saw the puzzled look on the doctor's face so he continued to explain. 'You know he didn't get up there by himself, he doesn't belong up there, and he doesn't know what to do while he's up there, and you just wonder what kind of idiot put him up there to begin with'.

Just received this from a friend at work this morning. Had to share with all of my Democrat friends!

Not too much new going on. Had an e mail to see if our foster greyhound Jack would be a good fit to go to a home with a puppy and a parrot. We think we would be OK with the puppy, but not with a bird, so it looks like we will have him a bit longer. I wish someone would adopt him. It gets harder every day to let him go...but we save another when we make room in the house. He really is a great dog. Including a picture today of Jack's 6th birthday bash! This was just a month or so after he came off of the track.

My Tweet Cloud....

TweetStats :: for emmaus_road

I used to didn't know what a tweet cloud was....now I have one!

Wooster Ohio

A quick picture tonight from our hometown, Wooster, Ohio. The picture below is recognizable by anyone who has lived in town. The two guys holding up the doorway at the Wayne County courthouse. Any kid who grew up in Wooster was terrified by these guys whenever you went downtown to shop at Freedlanders.

I guarantee they don't make courthouses like this anymore. Here is what I found about these guys:

The cornerstone-laying ceremonies for the present courthouse took place on Oct. 9, 1878. Architect for the project was Thomas Boyd of Pittsburgh, Pa., who enjoyed a regional reputation. Boyd designed the structure in a style known as Second Empire, named for the reign of Napoleon III of France. At the time the architectural style was the rage in the United States. A close architectural relative of the Wayne County Courthouse is Philadelphia City Hall, built in 1871.

To do the extensive stonework needed on the courthouse, Boyd brought in a group of itinerant Italian stonemasons. It was they who carved—among the myriad of other architectural details—the four huge figures of Atlas which support the entablatures and pediments over the south and east entranceways. These figures were carved from solid blocks of stone that had already been set in place in the structure. Boyd topped the courthouse with a mansard-style roof, then in vogue, which permitted usable space on the top floor"

If you want to read more, information can be found here.

Election Day

Today is election day across the country. All of the campaigning ends. The endless phone calls (we got a lot here in Ohio) end. And thank goodness, the TV commercials end. We have heard all of the pundits, the experts, the media....etc..

The inevitable will happen. Half of the voting public will be happy...and half will be disappointed. But we need to pray for guidance for whomever wins (I am writing as the returns are coming in), and pray for our country. This election has been bitter, in my opinion, and we need to get back to the business of running our nation. We still live in the greatest country on the planet. We have to remember that.

As the day went by today I could not help but think of all of the men and women in the military whom have made the ultimate sacrifice (and whom are sacrificing now) in order that we have the right to vote today. Many young people are buried in foreign countries, in battlefield cemeteries, who's blood was shed so that you could go to the polls today.

Whomever wins tonight, however happy or disappointed you may be, remember those who are sleeping tonight in countries around the world for you, and don't forget those who sleep eternally in military graves whom gave you this right. The picture tonight is from the U.S. military cemetery in Normandy, France. A sobering reminder that freedom doesn't come free...

Greyhound Kennel Visit

For those that liked the pictures from yesterday, the title above links to our posting of all of the greyhound kennel pictures. These retired racers need a good home to live out their days. They are clean, quiet, and lazy couch potatoes for the most part. These gentle dogs have raced for their lives, and deserve nothing more than a loving home.

We belong to a group called Central Ohio Greyhound Rescue and their web page can be found here. There is a link there to the adoptables and you can get all the information you need about greyhound adoption.

Please help our retired racing friends...

Greyhound Farm Visit Today

Today our Greyhound rescue group paid a visit to a greyhound breeding operation in Buffalo, WV. Sounds like a strange trip for a greyhound rescue group, but this is an uncommon breeding operation with a true love for the dogs. It is about dogs first, racing second. The folks there are awesome and work hand-in-hand with rescue organizations to adopt out all of their dogs. The kennel was spotless. It would be great if all of the greys in the racing business were treated this way.

There were about 140 dogs there today. They had all ages from puppies to adoptables. They breed, raise, train, race, then adopt all of them. It was hard not to pick up a puppy and take it home!

Hats off to everyone ant the Country Roads Kennel!

The Election Is Almost Here!

Tuesday is almost here. Regardless of who wins the election I think we can all agree that we won't miss those aweful political commercials! Whoever is elected they will never be better than Lloyd Braun. Serenity now!

Last Friday

Late in posting this. This pic was from last Friday when we saw Rhonda Vincent and the Rage at Stuart's Opera House in Nelsonville, OH. Great show by Rhonda and the boys. Would have posted a picture of the stage...but you guessed it...all I have is my crappy cell phone camera.

Had a great time..great venue. If you get a chance to check this place out you really need to! Refurbished Opera House from the mid 1800's.

Lexington, KY

Staying in Lexington KY for the next two nights. We made a trip today from Lexington to Elizabethtown, KY and back looking at some stores. We took a detour in Perryville to quickly see the CW battlefield there. This was my first time seeing this battlefield. It was kind of small, but it was unclear whether the NPS had secured all of the battlefield land or not. It was really too cold to get out and walk around much. The picture of the canon here is not mine...I only had my crappy cell phone camera...but we stood behind this canon and surveyed the field of fire that this bad boy laid down.

The cool think that happened was as we were leaving. We stopped an an old antique shop and woke up the 80 yr old KY gentleman that owned the place. We was a real hoot. Not a lot of great antiques, but this was a typical country antique experience. As I was starting to leave I noted that we was selling some locally made honey. Got a quart for $7.50. Beat that price in the city.

Vacation This Week

Nice to be off the road and on vacation this week. OK...I didn't do so well today reading e mails and talking on the phone. There was just a few projects that carried over to this week. I only have two more things to do...then e mail gets shut down.

On another note, we have been on Twitter lately. Well, I have. Lisa just lurks around. Maybe I can get her to tweet this week!

Watching Fox News tonight. The election is tightening up. We filled out our absentee ballots tonight. Does that mean that the political commercials will stop on our TV now? Who would have thought that Joe the plumber would ever be famous?

San Jose, CA

Back out to the West Coast this week. Have been in San Francisco, Oakland and San Jose. In Malpitas, Ca tonight.

I had a great piture for you tonight. It was a huge rolls royce parked in from of our Store in Campbell, CA. I somehow took a picture of the sidewalk...not the car.. Nice.

Instead here is a picture of Quinn caught in mid nap with mouth open.

Back home tomorrow and vacation next week. Yea!

It's Friday

Another weekend is upon us. Glad it is here. A long week of meetings, dinners, and more meetings. All we have to do is now wait for the Christmas season. I think the team is ready.

Wedding this weekend, as well as the Men's Walk To Emmaus at RUMC. Oh yeah, the Buckeyes are in action too. Should be a good weekend. When will I get my nap?

The picture is of Boone (on the left) and Brittany (on the right). Brit is the leader of the dog pack. Don't believe me? Just ask her.

In Town This Week

Just a short post tonight. I am in town all week as we have our annual leader's meeting. nice to be at home all week...although I am really tired tonight. Nice to see the group all in one place. Another meeting tomorrow to set strategy for the Christmas period and beyond. Bed time now.....

Columbus

Busy week this week. Not traveling but we have the RVPs, RLPMs and DMs in from all over the country. A lot of meetings and talking. Dinner with the group tonight. It will be nice to get this one out of the way.

Meant to post this picture yesterday. This is our church (Crossway Community Church) in Kirkerville, OH. This is a pic from the back during worship. We have a contract on a new building and will know if we are moving ion the next couple of weeks!

Civil War Anyone?

These are some of our older shots, but I just ran into them tonight while cleaning up. These show some pictures of the 51st OVI in action about 8 years ago or so. Hopefully I will have some new ones soon. I think we are doing an event around Christmas.

Renaissance Festival Today

We all went to the Ohio Renaissance Festival today. This is the first time we have been there. Had a good time. Plenty of turkey legs, sword fights, knights, and jousting. Here are a few of the pictures from today....

Look It's The Hulk!

Got back home today after the whirlwind tour through Dallas, out to LA, and back. Getting on the plane today on the flight from LA to Dallas was Lou Ferrigno of the Incredible Hulk fame. Imagine my surprise when Lou was on the flight from Dallas to Columbus. We sat in first class and chatted....ok I wasn't in first class, nor did we chat, but I did manage to snap his picture at baggage claim. That's about as exciting as the trip was. The picture is not that great either...but trust me...it was him.

Glad to be home!

Leaving the Big D

Flying out of DFW and on to LAX tonight. It's difficult to work out of your own time zone, especially 3 hours out of it. I thought I would post something now as I will probably be wiped out by the time I get to the hotel. Sitting here at C21 and every time a cart goes by the whole floor shakes. not good.

Saw some aweful stores this trip into D. We really need to get better here. The only good thing was the new store and a trip to a homestyle chicken restaurant named Babes. Good stuff.

Dallas Tonight

Short post tonight. Flew into Dallas today. Saw three stores. UGH they were really bad. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. Phone interview tonight...now 9:45 PM...dragging.... Have to fly onto LA tomoorw evening. Just have to get through the week.

Good nite...hope tomorrow will be a better BIG LOTS day!

Browns Win!

The previously 0-3 Cleveland Browns win over Cincinnati today. I would like to say I watched, but after Lisa and I lugging the new (used) treadmill we bought up the steps, and eating lunch, I fell asleep on the couch. But they won...so all is good.

No, it wasn't snowing in Ohio today...just like the picture...

We are on a diet too. Had a subway sub. Pounds are melting off as I sit here, just like Jared.

Strike That!

OK...Somehow Michigan came back and won thier game this afternoon.... Don't worry...we have a showdown with them in Novemeber here in the SHOE.

We are back to pulling for the Browns.

All Is Well

All is well in the Buckeye Nation today. The Buckeyes beat Minnesota to open Big Ten action. Been watching the Wolverines and Badgers this afternoon. Is Michigan really this bad? They look aweful. It's great in the nation when OSU wins and Michigan loses. If only the Browns could come through.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Home tonight. Watching the presidentail debate. We are about 30 mins in and the candidates are slugging it out. Hoping that McCain does well tonight. Was reading another e mail tonight where there was a debate drinking game dicussed. The watcher was to take a drink when Obama says "change" and a dring when McCain says "My Friends". 30 minues in and you would probably be loopy!

Thought I would share a pic of our recent foster Boone, who has a great home now. This is a great greyhound pose!!!

Doggies...

Here they are together on the couch. Jack (up for adoption on the left) and Quinnie on the right....

Goin home tomorrow!!!

It's The BIG CHICKEN

OK...

Just so you know I was here in Atlanta, here is a picture of the famous "Big Chicken" in Marietta, GA. Didn't eat here. Told Dan to slow down for the pic....