T H E C O F F E Y B L O GBy Ron CoffeyCOLLEGE TRANSFERS
Should college athletes who transfer to another college be forced to sit out a year, or limited on where they can transfer to? It’s a longstanding tradition, but is it right? No way, says Yahoo’s Dan Wetzel, who makes the point that they should have the same freedom that coaches and athletic directors have when accepting a new position. Wetzel uses a current situation involving a Maryland player to make some interesting points at: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=dw-wetzel_danny_obrien_maryland_randy_edsall_022212 BEN STEIN ON WEALTH & MISERY Facebook has created a new batch of millionaires, even as American Airlines files for bankruptcy. Ben Stein tries to make some sense of it all: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-3445_162-57371664/ben-stein-wealth-and-misery-in-the-news/ ASH WEDNESDAY Dianna and I attended our church’s Ash Wednesday service Feb. 22, and stopped at a couple of businesses before heading home. We got some strange looks...then I remembered that we each had a cross on our forehead made from the ashes of palm leaves. What’s that all about anyway? Well, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter. The date varies each year because the date of Easter varies (this year it will be April 8). The earliest possible date for Ash Wednesday is Feb. 4 and the latest possible date is March 10. Ash Wednesday has never occurred on Leap Year Day (February 29), and it will not occur as such until 2096. Ash Wednesday is typically a time of prayer and fasting in preparation for Easter. That’s one reason many people also observe “Fat Tuesday” the day before Ash Wednesday as a chance to indulge before the fasting begins. There’s a lot more to Ash Wednesday but I won’t attempt an explanation. It’s more practical to offer a link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ash_Wednesday "Mardi Gras" is French for Fat Tuesday and probably needs no explanation, but here’s a link anyway: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mardi_Gras MCGUFFEY LANE FAN GETS UNUSUAL AUTOGRAPHS I play guitar in a classic rock cover band called Dumbfounded, and as fans of McGuffey Lane we do a couple of the legendary band’s songs. This month at the Chazziz Valentine Car Show at the Roberts Centre near Wilmington, the band played a McGuffey Lane song ("People Like You"), and at our break one of the vintage car owners, Steve Bowser, invited me over to have a look at his 1965 Chrysler Newport. Turns out he is a big fan of McGuffey Lane and once met some of the band members at a car show and made an unusual request: would they autograph his car? John Schwab, McGuffey’s lead vocalist, guitarist and spiritual leader, and bassist/vocalist Steve Reis both signed the inside of Bowser’s vintage Chrysler, where the signatures safely reside to this day. I took a few photos of Bowser and the car to show off his prize autographs. The car, by the way, is powered by a 383 cubic inch V8 and has a two-barrel carburetor.     GLEN CAMPBELL ON FINAL TOUR The Rhinestone Cowboy has Alzheimer’s, but that hasn’t stopped him from a lengthy farewell tour. The Alzheimer's Association says Campbell's decision to continue performing is unprecedented, but it’s possible with the help of three of his children being in the band, and the use of Teleprompters to keep him on task. I enjoyed his performance on the Grammys last week, and found this interesting story about Campbell online: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-3445_162-57376147/glen-campbells-final-tour/?tag=contentMain;contentBody Glen’s website: http://glencampbellmusic.com/ Poignant title track of Glen’s final album, “Ghost on the Canvas”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7kw5zXVFVQ CLASS OF 1967 REUNION That most amazing of MHS classes is planning a reunion June 30. Details can be seen on the CLASS OF 1967 page on this website. THAT’LL SHOW ‘EM! If you've ever worked for a boss or know of people who react before getting the facts and thinking things through, you will love this! Thanks to Jim Fenner for passing this along: Executives of a big steel company, feeling it was time for a shakeup, hired a new CEO. The new boss was determined to rid the company of all slackers. On a tour of the facilities, the CEO noticed a guy leaning against a wall. The room was full of workers and he wanted to let them know that he meant business. He asked the guy, "How much money do you make a week?" A little surprised, the young man looked at him and said, "I make $400 a week. Why?" The CEO said, "Wait right here." He walked back to his office, came back in two minutes, and handed the guy $1,600 in cash and said, "Here's four weeks' pay. Now GET OUT and don't come back." Feeling pretty good about himself the CEO looked around the room and asked, "Does anyone want to tell me what that goof-ball did here?" From across the room a voice said, "Pizza delivery guy from Domino's." A VISIT TO EAT! We were in Hillsboro Saturday evening with Dianna’s father and checked out the relatively new restaurant called EAT, where we observed some huge servings of prime rib that looked great. I had a lovely and delicious Greek salad and chicken Marsala, and Dianna and Bill enjoyed their meals too. Larry Chapman recommends this place and often writes about it on his Chapman’s General Store website. Good job of scouting, Larry! Here’s a link to one of Chapman’s recent posts about EAT: http://lechap.com/?p=3318 THE WOMAN WHO BECAME KING A Silver Spring, Maryland woman has a double life as a secretary in Washington, D.C. and as “King” of a small African nation. Pegggielene Bartels, AKA King Peggy, was selected “by the spirits of her ancestors” as King of the west African nation of Ghana. Her story was told on CBS Sunday Morning recently. Here’s a link: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7398430n&tag=cbsnewsSectionsArea.3 ATHEISTS DON’T HAVE NO SONGS Leave it to Steve Martin to write a song comparing the songbooks of believers and atheists: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wogta8alHiU&feature=related R.I.P. SHAWN JACKSON Arrangements are now complete for McClain soccer coach Shawn Jackson, who passed away Thursday. Here's a link to the Murray-Fettro Funeral Home site: http://www.murrayfettro.com AGGRAVATION MAY LEAD TO AGGREGATION It looks like Greenfield voters made a good move last fall when they approved an electric aggregation plan. Now a similar plan may be an option for Hillsboro residents upset with skyrocketing bills. Click below for an article on the subject by Katie Wright of the Times-Gazette: http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=183502 ‘THE GUY WITH THE FACE’ ENJOYS CELEBRITY STATUS This Alabama basketball fan is using his face to distract hoops opponents and enjoying a taste of celebrity: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaab-the-dagger/alabama-fan-face-sign-instant-internet-hit-172350668.html IDLE FREQUENCY NEW SONG Colin Coffey and Colin Scott, collectively known as Idle Frequency, have completed a new song called “Shine A Light,” that will be featured on an upcoming TV show pilot. I’ve heard the song but don’t know what the TV show is called or is about. I hope this turns into another “Who Are You?” as played zillions of times on CSI! If you’re a Facebook user, just search for Idle Frequency and you should be able to get updates. MARTIN RAMEY IN THE STUDIO Brad Martin and John Ramey are busy recording as well. According to their Facebook page they recently recorded four new masters with Jim Ed Norman and Bobby Terry, and should have them out in a month or so. NEWS RELEASE RE: GREENFIELD ELECTRIC AGGREGATION The following news release comes from Betty Bishop, Greenfield city manager, concerning the many questions that have arisen since the community voted for electric aggregation last fall (especially since electric rates in and around Hillsboro have been in the news lately). Letters were been mailed to Greenfield residents this week, and as a result many calls have been made to Betty’s office. Hopefully the information below will answer questions that you may have: Dear Community, I have received many calls in reference to the aggregation letters that you received this week. I appreciate each and every contact and I hope this note will explain to you even better than what we sent you. Several years ago electricity was deregulated. As a result of that deregulation several energy companies popped up. We used to have only DPL in this area and the electric companies did not encroach on each other's territory. Now there is DPL Energy, AEP Retail, and many, many, others who are all fighting for as much territory as they can possibly get. We have been working with a consulting firm, Buckeye Energy Brokers, who put me in touch with Mr. Joseph Dennen, the City Manager of Washington Court House. Washington CH has had aggregation of gas rates for a couple of years or longer. Mr. Dennen advised me that it has been a very good program for their community. "There was a lot of concern at election time and at the time the letters went out, but when people saw how much they were saving on their energy they are very happy. I hardly ever get a call to my office about aggregation anymore." When I learned of the possibility of that much money being saved I wanted to give the citizens of Greenfield those same opportunities. I have been working on this for about ten months and all that I hear from people, other than competitors, are positive money saving comments. Since the citizens of Greenfield voted to go into an aggregation program, I hear that every electric company around is contacting residents and making offers to residents and that is okay. Each citizen needs to make their own decision. These contacts also show you how good of an offer you have available to you now. I will outline the History of the Greenfield aggregation process: 1. The idea was presented to council. 2. A contract was signed with Buckeye Energy Brokers 3. Council voted to put it on the ballot. 4. Request For Proposals were sent out seeking what electric costs were out there. 5. The citizens of Greenfield voted yes on aggregation. 6. Requests were sent out for Electricity bids 7. Quotes were received from many companies, including DPL. 8. Extra contacts were made to DPL Energy since they are our present supplier. 9. AEP Retail provided the lowest quote at 6.49 cents per kilowatt hour. 10. A contract was signed with AEP Retail. 11, Greenfield applied to AEP Retail for a grant. 12. AEP Retail awarded to help cover city costs. 13. Letters and contracts prepared. 14. Letters sent out. I hope your letters are self explanatory. I do apologize for the small print on the accompanying page. I do not want to create any more confusion, but I want each of you to know that I definitely believe this is the best opportunity your community leaders can present to you at this time to save energy dollars. Thank you for this opportunity to serve. - Betty Bishop, City Manager CALHOUN’S FUNDRAISER WILL HELP NEW DIRECTIONS Guest Chef Mike Anderson and friends from New Directions will be working at Calhoun’s on Jefferson Wednesday, Feb. 22 from 4:30 p.m. until closing. The special that evening will be "Beef & Noodles". Of course, you can order from the wide selection of delicious items on the menu as well. “Please come and share in a fun evening, and pray about what God might have you give to help,” Anderson encourages friends and supporters of New Directions. “This is a great program that gives to our youth, and helps build a better future.” He added that 10% of gross sales will be donated to New Directions to help with the building fund. For more info contact Mike Anderson at (937) 876-9868 or mike_ndym@yahoo.com DANIELS IN LINE FOR BIG APPOINTMENT BY GOVERNOR? The Columbus Dispatch has reported that Greenfield’s own David T. Daniels will be appointed as director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture later this week by Gov. John Kasich. Daniels is current representing this area as a state senator. If the report holds true, congratulations to David, who has served the area well as a Greenfield City Council member, mayor, Highland County commissioner and state representative. http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2012/02/14/kasich-names-new-agriculture-boss.html SOME OTHER LOCALS WHO ATTAINED HIGH OFFICE IN OHIO Greenfield has had a few people in statewide positions over the years. The most recent that come to mind were Vic Lucas, who was state fair manager of the Ohio State Fair, and Ralph Vanzant, who just passed away on Feb. 11, who served as chief of the Ohio State Parks System. Coincidentally, Ralph Vanzant was safety-service director during the two terms served by then-Greenfield Mayor David Daniels. I always enjoyed talking with Ralph, who had a keen intellect and equally sharp wit. He will be missed. Here is a link to the obituary of Ralph Vanzant: http://obit.thompsonfuneralhomes.com/obitdisplay.html?id=1032564&listing=Current WIT & WISDOM Life is a tragedy when seen in close-up, but a comedy in long-shot. - Charlie Chaplin No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars or sailed an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit. - Helen Keller If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world. - J.R.R. Tolkien DO RICH PEOPLE LIVE LONGER? Have you heard of the wealth gradient in mortality? Maybe your bank account is more important that diet and exercise… http://finance.yahoo.com/news/rich-people-live-longer-161138978.html NICK CAGE NO VAMPIRE …at least he says he’s not! http://tv.yahoo.com/news/nicolas-cage--i-m-not-a-vampire.html A lot of people are studying Nicholas Cage these days. Even if he’s not a vampire, he certainly has undergone an interesting evolution of hairstyles through the years. Here’s a “documentary” on the subject: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNz0POlwQP0 JEREMY LIN HIGHLIGHTS The undrafted guard from Harvard is suddenly the talk of the NBA. Clips on the NBA website show reasons why “Linsanity” has come to the New York Knicks: http://www.nba.com/video/highlights/ MOODY BLUEGRASS Say what? Driving in my car one day I heard a cool version of the Moody Blues’ “Tuesday Afternoon” on 104.1 FM, complete with all the signature notes usually played on orchestral instruments, only this time played in bluegrass style with stringed instruements like Bill Monroe and his band might have used. The vocals had some very nice harmonies. This compelled me to search the Internet for the source of this classic 1960s and ‘70s music performed in a new way. I finally located a group called Moody Bluegrass, which has done two albums of Moody Blues material. I’m not sure this is the group I heard, but then how many Moody Blues bluegrass cover bands could there be? To me, the Moody Blues were one of the under-appreciated groups of the era, a feeling confirmed after I purchased a box set a few years ago. Even their live stuff sounds great! However, for a nice change of pace, it’s a mind-bending trip to hear the material done bluegrass style! The guy behind this seems to be John Cowan, a former member of the New Grass Revival, who has done lots of other projects including a stint as bassist with the Doobie Brothers. The link below is to a medley of Moody Blues tunes, done bluegrass style (the real music doesn't start until about 30 seconds into the thing). Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Autut5ADu1s NEW JUST THINKING Every generation has its zealots, which caused Greg Robert to wonder what they might have done with a pregnant, unwed Mary (yes, THAT Mary!). Greg does some deep thinking in his latest offering, entitled Living by the Law. Read it on the JUST THINKING page of this website. CHAZZIZ Dumbfounded had a good time playing at the Chazziz Valentines Car Show Friday night. The weather was not too cooperative, but those who made it enjoyed seeing a nice collection of 48 classic vehicles. Proceeds from the show allowed Chazziz (aka Charlie Hargrave) to donate $500 to Alzheimer’s research, “and maybe more after all the bills are paid.” Chazziz plans to keep it going next year, according to a posting he has on Facebook. Thanks, Charlie, for allowing the band to participate! THE GRAMMYS I got to see most of the Grammy Awards show Sunday evening, and was pleased with the way new acts and legends shared the stage. People of my vintage usually enjoy seeing Stevie Wonder, Sir Paul McCartney, Joe Walsh, Glen Campbell and the Beach Boys even as we wonder who some of the newer superstars are. Dianna and I got a kick out of one of the relative newbies, Bruno Mars, looking like a cross between Little Richard and Michael Jackson and rocking the house! Kudos to host LL Cool Jay for offering a prayer concerning the loss of Whitney Houston the day before. It’s not often that prayers are heard on a national entertainment awards broadcast! If you missed it, here’s a link: http://justjared.buzznet.com/2012/02/12/ll-cool-js-prayer-for-whitney-houston-at-grammys-video/ The other thing that struck me about the Grammys was that several of the participants have performed at the Festival of the Bells in Hillsboro. I’m pretty sure that The Band Perry, Lady Antebellum and Taylor Swift have been featured at the festival, and I suspect several more from the country music field have also appeared in Hillsboro. Hats off to the Festival of the Bells organizers for having a great eye for talent and some serious connections! VAN MATRE, OTHERS HONORED Friday night was a big evening for McClain sports fans, as Rick VanMatre, John Wend and Karen Yeager were recognized for their contributions to the local sporting scene. Here are a couple of links to nice articles about the evening: http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=3&ArticleID=183426&TM=55438.07 http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=79&ArticleID=11673 PANCAKES AT FALL CREEK! Weather permitting (I guess that goes without saying for every event at this time of year), the Fall Creek Friends Church will host its annual pancake and sausage supper on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 3:30 -7 p.m. There will also be waffles and ham, coffee and milk for patrons to enjoy. If memory serves, the meals are available for a free will offering. If a set price has been established, I’m sure it’s very reasonable. The food is good, and lots of people attend the annual dinner at this friendly little country church, located at 11345 Karnes Road, Hillsboro. VANMATRE TO BE HONORED FRIDAY Former MHS boys basketball coach Rick VanMatre will be honored at halftime of the McClain vs. Madison Plains game Friday, Feb. 10. In addition, there will be a reception for the soon-to-be Hall of Famer after the game, according to Supt. Terry Fouch. VanMatre is scheduled to be inducted into the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame on April 28. As head coach of the MHS basketball Tigers over 28 seasons, VanMatre racked up 472 victories, an average of about 17 per season! Also, don’t forget the Rotary spaghetti supper being served at the MHS Cafetorium from 4:30-7:30 p.m. prior to the game (see scanned poster below for more details). For more about Rick VanMatre, here are some links to archived articles about the local coaching legend: http://greenfield.k12.oh.us/protected/ArticleView.aspx?iid=42AGY&dasi=3GP0 http://highlandcountypress.com/m/Articles.aspx?ArticleID=10940
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SUPER BOWL LINKS Good game, albeit one that I had trouble finding a team to support. Finally decided on New England, as the Patriots seemed like underdogs. I’m glad Chad Ochocinco was able to catch a pass in the game, but secretly hoped he would haul in the “Hail Mary” pass that fell incomplete as time expired. That could have been his reward for keeping his mouth shut all season... Oh well, I’ve learned a lot of things are not under my control. While not a big Madonna fan, I enjoyed the halftime show for its color and choreography. Only later did I hear about one of the entertainers flashing a naughty gesture. If not for online coverage and replays I probably never would have noticed. See the commercials: http://www.superbowl-commercials.org/ Judging the commercials: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/06/business/media/super-bowl-commercials-from-charming-to-smarmy.html Oh yeah, the game: http://www.nfl.com/ Best Super Bowl halftime shows: http://thecelebritycafe.com/feature/top-10-best-super-bowl-halftime-shows-02-05-2012 Worst Super Bowl halftime shows: http://popwatch.ew.com/2012/02/04/a-brief-survey-of-the-worst-super-bowl-halftime-shows-ever/ SUPER SUNDAY MEAL OPPORTUNITIES MOTHERS CLUB SUB SALE: Saw Tia O’Connor at church on Sunday and was immediately reminded that the annual Mothers Club sub sale is under way. We placed an order and plan to pick them up on Super Bowl Sunday at the Paint Creek Joint EMS/Fire District office (formerly GALS). Here’s a little m ore information I found on WVNU’s website: The subs are $2.50 apiece or you can get 6 for $14.00. You can call Jayme Shumaker at 981-5276 or Leah Perie at 981-4429. All the money raised from the sub sales will go to help out the children of our community. http://www.wvnu.com HISTORICAL SOCIETY SUNDAY MEAL: Super Bowl Sunday coincides with the Sunday meal series being offered by the Greenfield Historical Society. The event at the Grain & Hay building will feature a menu including Catalina chicken with salad, vegetable, scalloped potatoes, dessert, bread and drinks. Waiters and waitresses will serve guests from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on real plates, silverware and linen. All this for just $10.00 (and no tipping). In addition, the society's newly published book, Images of America, Greenfield, will be available for sale. PATRIOTS’ UNDERCOVER GENIUS Ah, Super Bowl week! Writers strive to give us new angles on the stars and profiles of the relatively unknown players. Some of them are quite interesting, but at this point in the season it’s pretty hard to come up with anything new. However, I did find a very interesting piece about the New England Patriots’ “Director of Football Research,” Ernie Adams. This mysterious person shuns the spotlight but seems to be in Coach Bill Belichick’s inner circle. He almost sounds like the football version of “Rain Man,” analyzing tapes and showcasing an encyclopedic knowledge of the NFL rulebook and other subjects, but it’s hard to say because so little is known about him. Ernie Adams may be more mysterious than Bill Belichick! Here’s a link to the story: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AtWlbA7xsKwGoWdMgEpqiNM5nYcB?slug=lc-carpenter_ernie_adams_patriots_adviser_belichick020212 PAPER BOTTLES THE NEXT BIG THING? Environmental concerns are a factor as the next phase in the bottling business may become paper bottles. They are biodegradable and require about a tenth of the energy to produce as compared to glass bottles. Developers say they can be stylish and stable. Here are some links to stories about this interesting concept: http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/360_paper_bottle_11829.asp http://blogs.wsj.com/wine/2011/11/14/coming-soon-the-paper-wine-bottle/ THE SISTINE CHAPEL 360 I’ve been there and couldn’t take in Michelangelo’s the amazing artwork as well as it can be seen from this website. It takes a bit of practice with your mouse, but you can zoom in and out and rotate 360 degrees. Pretty amazing! http://www.vatican.va/various/cappelle/sistina_vr/index.html BOIL ALERT LIFTED! Glad to hear that the boil alert for Greenfield has been lifted. Here are some links to news coverage: http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=20&ArticleID=11556 http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=183310 NEW WORRIES Now that the water situation has been resolved, here are a couple more issues I noticed on the Internet for the benefit of those who like to worry about things: PINK SLIME? A fast food chain is no longer using it... http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/mcdonald-confirms-no-longer-using-pink-slime-chemicals-171209662.html GLUED MEAT? A friend send me this information and wonders how many restaurants are using this glue technique: http://d.yimg.com/nl/australia/site/player.swf?vid=24472661&repeat=0&browseCarouselUI=hide WIT & WISDOM I'm the only person I know that's lost a quarter of a billion dollars in one year.... It's very character-building. - Steve Jobs Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens. - J.R.R. Tolkien There is no king who has not had a slave among his ancestors, and no slave who has not had a king among his. - Helen Keller 
IDLE FREQUENCY NEW SINGLE!
Our son Colin Coffey (left) is part of a dynamic duo known as Idle Frequency. He does the engineering and plays many of the instruments, while his friend Colin Scott handles the vocals and adds some guitar. The group has just released its first single, “Only After Dark” on Lick Records, and it’s available from iTunes for just 99 cents. Just thought you should know! You can give it a listen and watch the official video on Idle Frequency’s Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/idlefrequency For iTunes visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/only-after-dark-single/id498988877 |
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_________WATER UPDATE...
From Greenfield’s Facebook page:
Update of water: EPA just left and said things are looking up. We want to stress to you that the "contamination'' was found in the RAW water. When our main supply was tested it DID NOT show bacteria. The well that it was found in was shut off. We will update you as more information comes in.
Water Department eying procedural changes:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=183294
SOUTHERN CULTURE ON THE SKIDS!
This is sort of a guilty pleasure, but I discovered a musical group the other day that made me smile with a song called (She's) “Liquored Up and Lacquered Down” (and, the lyrics go on to say, “she’s got the biggest hair in town”). It’s a catchy little number in the vein of something Jimmy Buffett or the Zac Brown Band might perform, but done a tad more “skiddishly”. I wonder if musicologist Dave Shoemaker has heard of these guys.
Anyway, on the band’s website I found a Kudzu Ranch Recorders virtual jukebox (very authentic looking, I must say) and sampled the music there. I enjoyed most of the songs a lot, and if you’re interested in hearing some new stuff, click on the link and you might enjoy it as well:
http://www.kudzuranchrecorders.com/jukebox/jukebox.htm
HAIR ON A BISCUIT?
As a result of perusing the jukebox mentioned above, I noticed the “like hair on a biscuit” expression on said jukebox and wondered, what kind of expression is this? Apparently one used in the South. I googled same and found an explanation, plus a website promoting a book with much the same title. It’s a motivational book at that…so hang in there!
Here are some links:
http://www.oakridger.com/columnists/x415868243/-Like-a-hair-on-a-biscuit-and-other-colloquialisms
http://www.hairinabiscuit.com/
SUPER BOWL NUMBERS ADDING UP?
A numerologist says the signs point to a super Sunday for Tom Brady of the Patriots. I’m no math whiz, but it has something to do with the number 12:
http://www.thepostgame.com/blog/clip-board/201201/numerologist-calls-tom-bradys-number
JUST THINKING
Greg Roberts has his thinking cap on again, this time on the subject of moving with urgency. Have you ever had to run for your life? They you should be able to identify with Greg’s latest effort:
http://www.coffeyweb.com/just-thinking.html
BOIL ALERT
According to Greenfield’s Facebook page, the village is under a boil alert. It says, “Due to all the rain the city water supply in Greenfield is currently contaminated with possible e coli. Please boil your water until futher notice. This could take up to seven days.”
YEAR OF YOUR BIRTH...
Got this link from Jim Fenner with the comment, “Ron this is kind of different...take a look.” - Jim
I tried it and was told that the world was a vastly different place when I was born. (Don’t I know it!) Here are the basic instructions:
The screen is going to fade to black; have your glasses on, and follow the instructions below. Type the year only!!! Then click the question (?) mark. The screen moves by itself. Sit back and enjoy!
http://whathappenedinmybirthyear.com/
PRO BOWL
I enjoyed watching the Pro Bowl Sunday evening and was glad to see the quartet of Cincinnati Bengals play well as the AFC beat the NFC, 59-41. At times the game looked like a glorified version of touch football, but the competitive juices kicked in a little bit during the second half. I doubt that so many smiles will be seen on the players’ faces next Sunday.
ZOE THOMPSON & THE MINI BAND
Eight-year-old phenom rocks “Enter Sandman” by Metallica and other shredding favorites with a band of youngsters appropriated known as the Mini Band:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u81tunI-8FQ
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/8811200/Kids-band-become-internet-sensation.html
GREG COOK
Former UC great and promising Bengals quarterback Greg Cook has died at age 65 of pneumonia. Just about everyone who saw him play said he could have been one of the very best ever, had not a shoulder injury cut his career tragically short. Cook claimed Chillicothe as his hometown and still holds some passing records, such as most yards passing in a game (554) against Ohio University. If I remember correctly, OU won the battle en route to an undefeated regular season, but it was a great game.
Drafted with the fifth overall pick by the Bengals in 1969, Cook had some amazing games and tried to play through his shoulder injury. I suspect today’s medical experts could have helped him, but 40 years ago that was not the case.
Here are a few links for those who remember Greg Cook, or those who are curious:
http://www.gobearcats.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/012712aaa.html_
http://www.bengals.com/news/article-1/Mates-remember-Cook/a3ef0a6b-3add-4923-a1a4-bbcccb522b57
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_Cook
SPAGHETTI SUPPER RESCHEDULED
The Rotary spaghetti supper has been rescheduled to Friday, Feb. 10 prior to the MHS vs. Madison Plains game. No new tickets are being printed, as the old ones for the original date (Jan. 20) will be honored.
METH ‘SHAKE & BAKE’ VIDEO
With all the recent news about mobile meth labs and making meth in one’s pocket, here’s a video by a law enforcement officer that explains what’s going on and emphasizing the many dangers of this amateur chemistry process:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMahrNxX0ug
NEW FACEBOOK REQUIREMENTS
I still haven’t learned all the old requirements, but Facebook continues to make changes. Here’s a story about the latest changes:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/facebook-forces-timeline-tips-hide-230805761.html
WIT & WISDOM
A programmer is just a tool which converts caffeine into code. – Anonymous
42 WEATHER RECORDS SET IN OHIO DURING 2011
With all this rain lately, I’m reminded of the extremely wet year just gone by. A quick google of the subject revealed that many records were set during 2011. Some links are posted below:
http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/dayton-news/42-weather-records-set-in-ohio-during-past-year-1296515.html
Interactive map:
http://www.nrdc.org/health/extremeweather/default.asp
Extreme highs and lows (all-time):
http://ggweather.com/climate/extremes_us.htm
Severe weather in Ohio (2011 not found). Includes 1974 Xenia tornado and Lake Erie “mystery waves” in 1882 and 1942 that sound like tsunamis:
http://www.ohiohistory.org/etcetera/exhibits/swio/
National Weather Service out of Wilmington, Ohio:
http://www.erh.noaa.gov/iln/
Ohio precipitation records from National Weather Service:
http://www.erh.noaa.gov/iln/climo/summaries/2011PrecipRecords.php
GREENFIELD ENERGY SOLUTIONS SELECTED FOR PILOT PROJECT!
Congratulations to Sam Bowers and his team at Greenfield Energy Solutions for being selected to take part in a new social marketing strategies project to bring increased energy efficiency to local residents. Following is the text of a news release received Jan. 23 from GES:
Greenfield Energy Solutions (GES) has been chosen as one of only three pilot cities in Ohio to develop new social marketing strategies that will bring increased energy efficiency to local households. GES hopes to bring increased awareness of the many benefits of energy efficiency to Greenfield residents. The organization will also act as a point-organization for homeowners by helping them identify the best ways to upgrade their home. The partnership with GES is part of an Ohio Development of Development program to educate homeowners on energy efficiency options and the incentives available. Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy is overseeing the state-guided program.
Founded in 2011, GES is a local grassroots non-profit organization all volunteer staff is dedicated to maximizing the energy efficiency of Greenfield residences, with a particular focus on low-income housing. GES mission statement: To educate and promote the ideas of saving energy, money and protecting the environment of Greater Greenfield to the citizens of Greenfield.
With the help of OPAE, GES will train four Energy Assessors and a number of Energy Ambassadors who will work one-on-one with Greenfield residents to identify the best ways to make their homes more efficient. Additionally, the Energy Assessors and Energy Ambassadors will be able to help residents understand and choose among the many free and reduced-rate programs already available that target heating, insulation, and other large-scale projects.
"All of us want our homes to be healthy and efficient,” says committee chair of GES Sam Bowers, "and to be able to save money. But it's not always obvious to the average person what the problem is, what needs fixing, or how to do it. This program will empower our community to help themselves and each other," Bowers said. “Not only will we be able to save money on our energy bills but we will also reduce the carbon footprint as well.”
GREENFIELD OFFICES CLOSED JAN. 24-25
Village of Greenfield offices will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 24 and 25, due to inter-office moving. This includes the Water Department office, the tax and finance offices as well as the administrative office. In other words, the entire third floor of the city building.
The offices are scheduled to reopen on Thursday, Jan. 26.
This moving project does NOT affect the second floor, so the County Court and clerk's office will be open for business as usual.
77TH ANNIVERSARY OF CANNED BEER
Tuesday marks 77 years since the first can of beer was produced, according to something I heard on the radio. I googled that statement and found this online: On January 24, 1935, the first canned beer, Krueger Cream Ale, was sold by the Kruger Brewing Company of Richmond, VA.
In honor of that event, here are some beer quotes and a link to a good “beer song” entitled “People are Crazy”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKpQRjj_WbU
Oh, lager beer! It makes good cheer, and proves the poor man's worth; it cools the body through and through, and regulates the health. - Anonymous
An intelligent man is sometimes forced to be drunk to spend time with his fools. - Ernest Hemingway
They who drink beer will think beer. - Washington Irving
Not all chemicals are bad. Without chemicals such as hydrogen and oxygen, for example, there would be no way to make water, a vital ingredient in beer. - Dave Barry
He was a wise man who invented beer. - Plato
The letters in “Brace Beemer” can be arranged to spell “Embrace Beer”. - Dave Barry (referring to the actor who played the Lone Ranger on radio)
The problem with the world is that everyone is a few drinks behind. - Humphrey Bogart
Always remember that I have taken more out of alcohol than alcohol has taken out of me. - Winston Churchill
Beer is the Danish national drink, and the Danish national weakness is another beer. - Clementine Paddleford
THE KONNEKERS: MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Larry Chapman has posted a nice piece about the impact of Wilfred and Ann Lee Konneker on Greenfield, McClain High School and Ohio University. Our community is indeed fortunate to have produced some outstanding people like Edward Lee McClain and Wilfred Konneker, whose impact will continue to be felt for a long time to come! Included in Larry's article is a listing of the Konneker scholars to date from 1990 through 2011.
Read it here:
http://lechap.com/?p=2926
COSTA CRUISE LINER PIX
Sole Blog Reader sent me this link to some interesting photos of the ill-fated Costa Concordia, the cruise ship that wrecked off the coast of Italy. I am no stranger to cruise ship disasters, having been aboard the Universe Explorer in 1996 when a fire ended an Alaskan cruise. I’ve not seen many photos of that vessel, perhaps owing to its relatively remote location. Despite the tragic loss of life in the Italian shipwreck, the photos are not gory and some are quite stunning:
http://cryptome.org/2012-info/costa-concordia/0041.htm
GREATEST SPORTS MOVIES
Rory Ryan weighed in on his favorite sports movies in a recent column in the Highland County Press. When I saw what it was about, I first collected my thoughts about my own favorites to see if there was any harmonic convergence. You might want to do the same before reading Rory’s thoughts (or mine).
http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=4&SubSectionID=83&ArticleID=11355
Rory came up with 50 sports movies! What about mine? In a few minutes, I came up with a baker’s dozen: The Longest Yard (the original), Field of Dreams, Bull Durham, Hoosiers, The Natural, Remember the Titans, Brian’s Song, Bang the Drum Slowly, 61, The Legend of Bagger Vance, Tin Cup, Invictus, Waterboy. I didn’t think to include boxing movies or horse films, which would lengthen the list significantly, or Rudy. Wish I’d remembered Jerry Maguire, or Semi-tough (which Rory culled or overlooked). Still, it was a good exercise and brought back many memories. I think Field of Dreams holds the No. 1 spot in my sports movie hit parade.
NO COUGARS AT THIS HIGH SCHOOL!
Give me a break! Students at a new Utah high school are facing disappointment after their choice for a new school mascot was rejected for one of the strangest reasons possible: Board members deemed it might be seen as offensive to middle-aged women.
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/highschool-prep-rally/school-t-cougars-because-middle-aged-women-might-161402778.html
BEST PLACES TO RETIRE
...often don’t include home, or a place near your children and grandchildren. Here’s an article giving some practical advice not often served up in those “best places to retire” articles:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/real-best-places-retire-2012-184912471.html
TURING 66 THIS YEAR?
If so, it’s an important year for Baby Boomers. This article explains why:
http://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/2011/12/12/tips-for-baby-boomers-reaching-retirement-age-in-2012
‘HITLER’ REACTS TO SOPA
This footage from an old movie gets used for a lot of things. One of my favorites last year was Hitler’s reaction to news that the Miami Heat were not going to win the NBA finals . Here the Fuhrer reacts to news about SOPA (the Stop Online Piracy Act), and actually seems to make some pretty good points:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvXo4sGB7zM&feature=share
GAME AND SPAGHETTI SUPPER POSTPONED
Due to the winter storm warning forecast for this part of the state on Friday evening, the McClain vs. Hillsboro basketball game has been postponed. Likewise, the Rotary spaghetti supper has been set aside until a later date. So be safe, stay warm and watch the news media for announcements about the new date(s) for these events.
SPAGHETTI TIME!
As McClain prepares to host Hillsboro in basketball Friday, Jan. 20, so too the Greenfield Rotary Club is preparing to sell tasty spaghetti before the game.
Rotarians and many of their spouses get involved in the fundraiser, serving up yummy spaghetti and sauce, salad and dessert for hungry patrons.
Proceeds from the spaghetti suppers, which take place during football and basketball seasons, help the club to finance local projects for the betterment of the community. Tickets are available from Rotarians or at the door of the McClain Cafetorium.
NEW DIRECTIONS TELETHON
Tuesday, January 24 is the date of the 19th Annual New Directions Telethon. Hours are 7-9 p.m. and the activities will be broadcast on GCTV - Channel 3 and via radio on WVNU - 97.5 FM.
Local talent will be showcased, along with photos of New Directions activities and accounts of how lives have been changed.
During the telethon, donations can be dropped off the MHS TV studio, pledges can be called in to the studio at (937) 981-7731 or donations can be sent to: P.O. Box 26, Greenfield, Ohio 45123.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT FOR 2011
Greenfield City Manager Betty Bishop presented her annual report to Greenfield Council this week, detailing some of the challenges and triumphs of the past 12 months. It’s posted on the Greenfield website if you would like to have a look:
City manager’s report
Greenfield website:
http://www.greenfieldohio.net/
WIKIPEDIA BLACKOUT
I’ve been a fan of Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia and much more that people can update themselves (sometimes resulting in inaccurate information), but free nevertheless. Wednesday the site basically blacked itself out in protest of proposed legislation that some say would have dire consequences to a free and open Internet.
I won’t try to explain the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) or the Protect IP Act (PIPA), but if you want to read more about the Wikipedia protest, here’s a link to Wikipedia’s message:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:SOPA_initiative/Learn_more
VIDEO ADVENTURES
Chris Walker sent me this link with the comment, “OK, some serious meds are needed for this stuff. Some really cool video shots.” It’s called “People Are Awesome (Don’s Version” and it’s amazing. I’m pretty sure I’m not in any of them, but I may have seen Heath Fettro in a kayaking segment!
http://www.youtube.com/v/EEu42L0ufBY%26rel%3d0%26hl%3den_US%26feature%3dplayer_embedded%26version%3d3
THE SLEDDING CROW
Wow! While the crow didn’t make the “People Are Awesome” video, it did take part in an an interesting sledding trip with the aid of a jar lid and a snowy roof:
http://www.grindtv.com/outdoor/blog/32422/sledding%20crow%20in%20russia%20soars%20to%20internet%20stardom/
WIT & WISDOM
Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn. - C. S. Lewis
Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it. - Colin Powell
You don't really understand human nature unless you know why a child on a merry-go-round will wave at his parents every time around - and why his parents will always wave back. - William D. Tammeus
_
CALENDAR
When I remodeled the website, I inadvertently misplaced my link to the Greenfield Community Calendar that anyone can update. To put your event on the calendar, just click on the appropriate date and a window will open so you can add information. I’ve added some events for January and February, so take a look and see if yours is on there.
http://www.my.calendars.net/GREENFIELDEVENTS
From Greenfield’s Facebook page:
Update of water: EPA just left and said things are looking up. We want to stress to you that the "contamination'' was found in the RAW water. When our main supply was tested it DID NOT show bacteria. The well that it was found in was shut off. We will update you as more information comes in.
Water Department eying procedural changes:
http://timesgazette.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=175&ArticleID=183294
SOUTHERN CULTURE ON THE SKIDS!
This is sort of a guilty pleasure, but I discovered a musical group the other day that made me smile with a song called (She's) “Liquored Up and Lacquered Down” (and, the lyrics go on to say, “she’s got the biggest hair in town”). It’s a catchy little number in the vein of something Jimmy Buffett or the Zac Brown Band might perform, but done a tad more “skiddishly”. I wonder if musicologist Dave Shoemaker has heard of these guys.
Anyway, on the band’s website I found a Kudzu Ranch Recorders virtual jukebox (very authentic looking, I must say) and sampled the music there. I enjoyed most of the songs a lot, and if you’re interested in hearing some new stuff, click on the link and you might enjoy it as well:
http://www.kudzuranchrecorders.com/jukebox/jukebox.htm
HAIR ON A BISCUIT?
As a result of perusing the jukebox mentioned above, I noticed the “like hair on a biscuit” expression on said jukebox and wondered, what kind of expression is this? Apparently one used in the South. I googled same and found an explanation, plus a website promoting a book with much the same title. It’s a motivational book at that…so hang in there!
Here are some links:
http://www.oakridger.com/columnists/x415868243/-Like-a-hair-on-a-biscuit-and-other-colloquialisms
http://www.hairinabiscuit.com/
SUPER BOWL NUMBERS ADDING UP?
A numerologist says the signs point to a super Sunday for Tom Brady of the Patriots. I’m no math whiz, but it has something to do with the number 12:
http://www.thepostgame.com/blog/clip-board/201201/numerologist-calls-tom-bradys-number
JUST THINKING
Greg Roberts has his thinking cap on again, this time on the subject of moving with urgency. Have you ever had to run for your life? They you should be able to identify with Greg’s latest effort:
http://www.coffeyweb.com/just-thinking.html
BOIL ALERT
According to Greenfield’s Facebook page, the village is under a boil alert. It says, “Due to all the rain the city water supply in Greenfield is currently contaminated with possible e coli. Please boil your water until futher notice. This could take up to seven days.”
YEAR OF YOUR BIRTH...
Got this link from Jim Fenner with the comment, “Ron this is kind of different...take a look.” - Jim
I tried it and was told that the world was a vastly different place when I was born. (Don’t I know it!) Here are the basic instructions:
The screen is going to fade to black; have your glasses on, and follow the instructions below. Type the year only!!! Then click the question (?) mark. The screen moves by itself. Sit back and enjoy!
http://whathappenedinmybirthyear.com/
PRO BOWL
I enjoyed watching the Pro Bowl Sunday evening and was glad to see the quartet of Cincinnati Bengals play well as the AFC beat the NFC, 59-41. At times the game looked like a glorified version of touch football, but the competitive juices kicked in a little bit during the second half. I doubt that so many smiles will be seen on the players’ faces next Sunday.
ZOE THOMPSON & THE MINI BAND
Eight-year-old phenom rocks “Enter Sandman” by Metallica and other shredding favorites with a band of youngsters appropriated known as the Mini Band:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u81tunI-8FQ
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/8811200/Kids-band-become-internet-sensation.html
GREG COOK
Former UC great and promising Bengals quarterback Greg Cook has died at age 65 of pneumonia. Just about everyone who saw him play said he could have been one of the very best ever, had not a shoulder injury cut his career tragically short. Cook claimed Chillicothe as his hometown and still holds some passing records, such as most yards passing in a game (554) against Ohio University. If I remember correctly, OU won the battle en route to an undefeated regular season, but it was a great game.
Drafted with the fifth overall pick by the Bengals in 1969, Cook had some amazing games and tried to play through his shoulder injury. I suspect today’s medical experts could have helped him, but 40 years ago that was not the case.
Here are a few links for those who remember Greg Cook, or those who are curious:
http://www.gobearcats.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/012712aaa.html_
http://www.bengals.com/news/article-1/Mates-remember-Cook/a3ef0a6b-3add-4923-a1a4-bbcccb522b57
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_Cook
SPAGHETTI SUPPER RESCHEDULED
The Rotary spaghetti supper has been rescheduled to Friday, Feb. 10 prior to the MHS vs. Madison Plains game. No new tickets are being printed, as the old ones for the original date (Jan. 20) will be honored.
METH ‘SHAKE & BAKE’ VIDEO
With all the recent news about mobile meth labs and making meth in one’s pocket, here’s a video by a law enforcement officer that explains what’s going on and emphasizing the many dangers of this amateur chemistry process:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMahrNxX0ug
NEW FACEBOOK REQUIREMENTS
I still haven’t learned all the old requirements, but Facebook continues to make changes. Here’s a story about the latest changes:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/facebook-forces-timeline-tips-hide-230805761.html
WIT & WISDOM
A programmer is just a tool which converts caffeine into code. – Anonymous
42 WEATHER RECORDS SET IN OHIO DURING 2011
With all this rain lately, I’m reminded of the extremely wet year just gone by. A quick google of the subject revealed that many records were set during 2011. Some links are posted below:
http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/dayton-news/42-weather-records-set-in-ohio-during-past-year-1296515.html
Interactive map:
http://www.nrdc.org/health/extremeweather/default.asp
Extreme highs and lows (all-time):
http://ggweather.com/climate/extremes_us.htm
Severe weather in Ohio (2011 not found). Includes 1974 Xenia tornado and Lake Erie “mystery waves” in 1882 and 1942 that sound like tsunamis:
http://www.ohiohistory.org/etcetera/exhibits/swio/
National Weather Service out of Wilmington, Ohio:
http://www.erh.noaa.gov/iln/
Ohio precipitation records from National Weather Service:
http://www.erh.noaa.gov/iln/climo/summaries/2011PrecipRecords.php
GREENFIELD ENERGY SOLUTIONS SELECTED FOR PILOT PROJECT!
Congratulations to Sam Bowers and his team at Greenfield Energy Solutions for being selected to take part in a new social marketing strategies project to bring increased energy efficiency to local residents. Following is the text of a news release received Jan. 23 from GES:
Greenfield Energy Solutions (GES) has been chosen as one of only three pilot cities in Ohio to develop new social marketing strategies that will bring increased energy efficiency to local households. GES hopes to bring increased awareness of the many benefits of energy efficiency to Greenfield residents. The organization will also act as a point-organization for homeowners by helping them identify the best ways to upgrade their home. The partnership with GES is part of an Ohio Development of Development program to educate homeowners on energy efficiency options and the incentives available. Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy is overseeing the state-guided program.
Founded in 2011, GES is a local grassroots non-profit organization all volunteer staff is dedicated to maximizing the energy efficiency of Greenfield residences, with a particular focus on low-income housing. GES mission statement: To educate and promote the ideas of saving energy, money and protecting the environment of Greater Greenfield to the citizens of Greenfield.
With the help of OPAE, GES will train four Energy Assessors and a number of Energy Ambassadors who will work one-on-one with Greenfield residents to identify the best ways to make their homes more efficient. Additionally, the Energy Assessors and Energy Ambassadors will be able to help residents understand and choose among the many free and reduced-rate programs already available that target heating, insulation, and other large-scale projects.
"All of us want our homes to be healthy and efficient,” says committee chair of GES Sam Bowers, "and to be able to save money. But it's not always obvious to the average person what the problem is, what needs fixing, or how to do it. This program will empower our community to help themselves and each other," Bowers said. “Not only will we be able to save money on our energy bills but we will also reduce the carbon footprint as well.”
GREENFIELD OFFICES CLOSED JAN. 24-25
Village of Greenfield offices will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 24 and 25, due to inter-office moving. This includes the Water Department office, the tax and finance offices as well as the administrative office. In other words, the entire third floor of the city building.
The offices are scheduled to reopen on Thursday, Jan. 26.
This moving project does NOT affect the second floor, so the County Court and clerk's office will be open for business as usual.
77TH ANNIVERSARY OF CANNED BEER
Tuesday marks 77 years since the first can of beer was produced, according to something I heard on the radio. I googled that statement and found this online: On January 24, 1935, the first canned beer, Krueger Cream Ale, was sold by the Kruger Brewing Company of Richmond, VA.
In honor of that event, here are some beer quotes and a link to a good “beer song” entitled “People are Crazy”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKpQRjj_WbU
Oh, lager beer! It makes good cheer, and proves the poor man's worth; it cools the body through and through, and regulates the health. - Anonymous
An intelligent man is sometimes forced to be drunk to spend time with his fools. - Ernest Hemingway
They who drink beer will think beer. - Washington Irving
Not all chemicals are bad. Without chemicals such as hydrogen and oxygen, for example, there would be no way to make water, a vital ingredient in beer. - Dave Barry
He was a wise man who invented beer. - Plato
The letters in “Brace Beemer” can be arranged to spell “Embrace Beer”. - Dave Barry (referring to the actor who played the Lone Ranger on radio)
The problem with the world is that everyone is a few drinks behind. - Humphrey Bogart
Always remember that I have taken more out of alcohol than alcohol has taken out of me. - Winston Churchill
Beer is the Danish national drink, and the Danish national weakness is another beer. - Clementine Paddleford
THE KONNEKERS: MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Larry Chapman has posted a nice piece about the impact of Wilfred and Ann Lee Konneker on Greenfield, McClain High School and Ohio University. Our community is indeed fortunate to have produced some outstanding people like Edward Lee McClain and Wilfred Konneker, whose impact will continue to be felt for a long time to come! Included in Larry's article is a listing of the Konneker scholars to date from 1990 through 2011.
Read it here:
http://lechap.com/?p=2926
COSTA CRUISE LINER PIX
Sole Blog Reader sent me this link to some interesting photos of the ill-fated Costa Concordia, the cruise ship that wrecked off the coast of Italy. I am no stranger to cruise ship disasters, having been aboard the Universe Explorer in 1996 when a fire ended an Alaskan cruise. I’ve not seen many photos of that vessel, perhaps owing to its relatively remote location. Despite the tragic loss of life in the Italian shipwreck, the photos are not gory and some are quite stunning:
http://cryptome.org/2012-info/costa-concordia/0041.htm
GREATEST SPORTS MOVIES
Rory Ryan weighed in on his favorite sports movies in a recent column in the Highland County Press. When I saw what it was about, I first collected my thoughts about my own favorites to see if there was any harmonic convergence. You might want to do the same before reading Rory’s thoughts (or mine).
http://www.highlandcountypress.com/main.asp?SectionID=4&SubSectionID=83&ArticleID=11355
Rory came up with 50 sports movies! What about mine? In a few minutes, I came up with a baker’s dozen: The Longest Yard (the original), Field of Dreams, Bull Durham, Hoosiers, The Natural, Remember the Titans, Brian’s Song, Bang the Drum Slowly, 61, The Legend of Bagger Vance, Tin Cup, Invictus, Waterboy. I didn’t think to include boxing movies or horse films, which would lengthen the list significantly, or Rudy. Wish I’d remembered Jerry Maguire, or Semi-tough (which Rory culled or overlooked). Still, it was a good exercise and brought back many memories. I think Field of Dreams holds the No. 1 spot in my sports movie hit parade.
NO COUGARS AT THIS HIGH SCHOOL!
Give me a break! Students at a new Utah high school are facing disappointment after their choice for a new school mascot was rejected for one of the strangest reasons possible: Board members deemed it might be seen as offensive to middle-aged women.
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/highschool-prep-rally/school-t-cougars-because-middle-aged-women-might-161402778.html
BEST PLACES TO RETIRE
...often don’t include home, or a place near your children and grandchildren. Here’s an article giving some practical advice not often served up in those “best places to retire” articles:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/real-best-places-retire-2012-184912471.html
TURING 66 THIS YEAR?
If so, it’s an important year for Baby Boomers. This article explains why:
http://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/2011/12/12/tips-for-baby-boomers-reaching-retirement-age-in-2012
‘HITLER’ REACTS TO SOPA
This footage from an old movie gets used for a lot of things. One of my favorites last year was Hitler’s reaction to news that the Miami Heat were not going to win the NBA finals . Here the Fuhrer reacts to news about SOPA (the Stop Online Piracy Act), and actually seems to make some pretty good points:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvXo4sGB7zM&feature=share
GAME AND SPAGHETTI SUPPER POSTPONED
Due to the winter storm warning forecast for this part of the state on Friday evening, the McClain vs. Hillsboro basketball game has been postponed. Likewise, the Rotary spaghetti supper has been set aside until a later date. So be safe, stay warm and watch the news media for announcements about the new date(s) for these events.
SPAGHETTI TIME!
As McClain prepares to host Hillsboro in basketball Friday, Jan. 20, so too the Greenfield Rotary Club is preparing to sell tasty spaghetti before the game.
Rotarians and many of their spouses get involved in the fundraiser, serving up yummy spaghetti and sauce, salad and dessert for hungry patrons.
Proceeds from the spaghetti suppers, which take place during football and basketball seasons, help the club to finance local projects for the betterment of the community. Tickets are available from Rotarians or at the door of the McClain Cafetorium.
NEW DIRECTIONS TELETHON
Tuesday, January 24 is the date of the 19th Annual New Directions Telethon. Hours are 7-9 p.m. and the activities will be broadcast on GCTV - Channel 3 and via radio on WVNU - 97.5 FM.
Local talent will be showcased, along with photos of New Directions activities and accounts of how lives have been changed.
During the telethon, donations can be dropped off the MHS TV studio, pledges can be called in to the studio at (937) 981-7731 or donations can be sent to: P.O. Box 26, Greenfield, Ohio 45123.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT FOR 2011
Greenfield City Manager Betty Bishop presented her annual report to Greenfield Council this week, detailing some of the challenges and triumphs of the past 12 months. It’s posted on the Greenfield website if you would like to have a look:
City manager’s report
Greenfield website:
http://www.greenfieldohio.net/
WIKIPEDIA BLACKOUT
I’ve been a fan of Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia and much more that people can update themselves (sometimes resulting in inaccurate information), but free nevertheless. Wednesday the site basically blacked itself out in protest of proposed legislation that some say would have dire consequences to a free and open Internet.
I won’t try to explain the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) or the Protect IP Act (PIPA), but if you want to read more about the Wikipedia protest, here’s a link to Wikipedia’s message:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:SOPA_initiative/Learn_more
VIDEO ADVENTURES
Chris Walker sent me this link with the comment, “OK, some serious meds are needed for this stuff. Some really cool video shots.” It’s called “People Are Awesome (Don’s Version” and it’s amazing. I’m pretty sure I’m not in any of them, but I may have seen Heath Fettro in a kayaking segment!
http://www.youtube.com/v/EEu42L0ufBY%26rel%3d0%26hl%3den_US%26feature%3dplayer_embedded%26version%3d3
THE SLEDDING CROW
Wow! While the crow didn’t make the “People Are Awesome” video, it did take part in an an interesting sledding trip with the aid of a jar lid and a snowy roof:
http://www.grindtv.com/outdoor/blog/32422/sledding%20crow%20in%20russia%20soars%20to%20internet%20stardom/
WIT & WISDOM
Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn. - C. S. Lewis
Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it. - Colin Powell
You don't really understand human nature unless you know why a child on a merry-go-round will wave at his parents every time around - and why his parents will always wave back. - William D. Tammeus
_
CALENDAR
When I remodeled the website, I inadvertently misplaced my link to the Greenfield Community Calendar that anyone can update. To put your event on the calendar, just click on the appropriate date and a window will open so you can add information. I’ve added some events for January and February, so take a look and see if yours is on there.
http://www.my.calendars.net/GREENFIELDEVENTS
NEW GREENHOUSES
Greenfield Exempted Village School District has erected two greenhouses on the east side of the new vocational building. The greenhouses will help students to learn about plants, propagation, photosynthesis and other processes, and hopefully instill in them the urge to plant gardens and trees.
I believe the project is a cooperative venture with Visibly Green, one of Greenfield’s newest businesses, designed to encourage “green” thinking.
Greenfield Schools website: http://www.greenfield.k12.oh.us/
One of the products Visibly Green will be producing is described on the company’s website as follows:
“Building on a community agriculture plan, Visibly Green will introduce proprietary specialty oils for use in insect (bed bugs and cockroaches) and vermin control. Longer term, the company also envisions opportunities to grow a local food economy with a processing and marketing plan for fresh produce and value added products targeting regional urban markets.”
More about Visibly Green:
www.visiblygreen.com
Greenfield Exempted Village School District has erected two greenhouses on the east side of the new vocational building. The greenhouses will help students to learn about plants, propagation, photosynthesis and other processes, and hopefully instill in them the urge to plant gardens and trees.
I believe the project is a cooperative venture with Visibly Green, one of Greenfield’s newest businesses, designed to encourage “green” thinking.
Greenfield Schools website: http://www.greenfield.k12.oh.us/
One of the products Visibly Green will be producing is described on the company’s website as follows:
“Building on a community agriculture plan, Visibly Green will introduce proprietary specialty oils for use in insect (bed bugs and cockroaches) and vermin control. Longer term, the company also envisions opportunities to grow a local food economy with a processing and marketing plan for fresh produce and value added products targeting regional urban markets.”
More about Visibly Green:
www.visiblygreen.com
BEST VIDEOS OF YEAR?
I saw an interesting piece about favorite YouTube videos as selected by staff members of NPR’s “Fresh Air”. Here are some links to the ones they chose:
Husky dog says “I love you”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXo3NFqkaRM
Fake Werner Herzog (German film director) reads from “Where’s Waldo”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvWh6PMi9Ek
Huffamoose documentary trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-i5iysKSX8
“Sweet Georgia Brown” played with the assistance of an old tractor:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1ThSi1wbqU
Dog surprises officer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9XsxQkoAe8&feature=player_embedded
The Muppets sing “Bohemian Rhapsody”:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgbNymZ7vqY
JUST THINKING
Greg Roberts, dedicated columnist that he is, usually sends two or three pieces before I get around to publishing them, and it’s a nice feeling to have a few in the virtual vault for future use. Friday he sent one inspired by the 60th anniversary of NBC's "Today Show.” I decided to skip it ahead of some of his other writings and publish it on the very day Today celebrates its milestone. You can have a look by clicking on the JUST THINKING... menu at the top of the page.
21-HOUR WORK WEEK?
An article making the case for a 21-hour work week caught my eye and I read it, but came away with mixed feelings. For example, this sentence caught my eye: “Instead of growing the economy, maybe we need to recalibrate society to make everyone happier and successful with less.” Therein lies the rub; I like the “happier” part but have some misgivings about just what “less” means. What do you think about a 21-hour work week?
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/the-case-for-a-21-hour-work-week.html
WINTER WALK TIPS FROM CHAPMAN
I received a nice note from Larry Chapman with tips and tricks for enjoying the Hocking Hills Winter Walk on Saturday, Jan. 21. While I’m not sure that I’ll actually make it, Larry offers some good suggestions for anyone who might be going and therefore I’m passing them along. Thanks Larry!
Ron, Back in the 1970s a group of us made that trek on several occasions.
Each time the sun was out but it was very cold and lots of snow and
ice lay along the trail. My advice is to remember you'll be walking in
a gorge and the temperature will be just a little cooler as you
parallel a stream bed. Dress up in layers, carry a small backpack with
water and "gorp." You're not going to find any vending machines along
the way. If there is snow or ice I'd advise taking a walking stick to
help balance yourself. The hot bean soup at mid-point is a lifesaver.
Could have been the worse soup ever but under the conditions it
couldn't have been better. Hope you enjoy yourself.
Larry has lots of information, opinions and contributions from other writers on his popular website, Chapman’s General Store:
http://lechap.com/
NEW BOOK GOES ON SALE JAN. 23!
Harold Schmidt, president of the Greenfield Historical Society, reminds the public that the new book, “Greenfield,” goes on sale Jan. 23 and is filled with vintage photos of our historic and unique community. The price is $21.99 plus tax, and it would make a great addition to the bookshelves of area residents (or those who have moved to other locations but still have a connection with Greenfield).
Here’s what a press release from the publishing company has to say about the project:
The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is Greenfield from The Historical Society of Greenfield. The book boasts more than 200 vintage images and memories of days gone by.
In 1799, weary settlers traveled north from the Ohio River and west from Chillicothe to form a settlement that would eventually become Greenfield, Ohio. Those early settlers staked out their future along Paint Creek. Gen. Duncan McArthur platted the town, which grew quickly. Prominent leaders over the years included Rear Adm. Noble Irwin, Gen. John Hull, Edward L. McClain, and F.R. Harris.
Many factories and businesses developed, including Wilknit, Waddell, Greenfield Pad and Textile Company, and C.R. Patterson and Sons. As in all towns, businesses opened and closed, but Greenfield’s shining monument throughout the last century, E.L. McClain High School, remains a proud centerpiece of the community.
Highlights of Greenfield:
Greenfield Historical Society website:
http://www.greenfieldhistoricalsociety.org/
Harold Schmidt, president of the Greenfield Historical Society, reminds the public that the new book, “Greenfield,” goes on sale Jan. 23 and is filled with vintage photos of our historic and unique community. The price is $21.99 plus tax, and it would make a great addition to the bookshelves of area residents (or those who have moved to other locations but still have a connection with Greenfield).
Here’s what a press release from the publishing company has to say about the project:
The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is Greenfield from The Historical Society of Greenfield. The book boasts more than 200 vintage images and memories of days gone by.
In 1799, weary settlers traveled north from the Ohio River and west from Chillicothe to form a settlement that would eventually become Greenfield, Ohio. Those early settlers staked out their future along Paint Creek. Gen. Duncan McArthur platted the town, which grew quickly. Prominent leaders over the years included Rear Adm. Noble Irwin, Gen. John Hull, Edward L. McClain, and F.R. Harris.
Many factories and businesses developed, including Wilknit, Waddell, Greenfield Pad and Textile Company, and C.R. Patterson and Sons. As in all towns, businesses opened and closed, but Greenfield’s shining monument throughout the last century, E.L. McClain High School, remains a proud centerpiece of the community.
Highlights of Greenfield:
- Innovative industries and businesses
- Services in town
- Faces around town
- Community scenes
Greenfield Historical Society website:
http://www.greenfieldhistoricalsociety.org/
GREENFIELD IN
1958
I stumbled across an old phone directory from 1958 in Larry Chapman's archives while searching for something else. More than a phone directory, the information listed not only names and addresses, but also occupations of many residents of Greenfield in those halcyon days of 54 years ago. It’s kind of interesting if you were around in 1958, especially the old phone numbers (ours was 4231B, but we only had to dial 231B). Some of listings gave a brief description of the resident’s type of employment (for example, Pearl I. Ely was apparently a foreman at the Waddell Company).
In those innocent days information was free and easy and people felt safe, except for the vague threat of communism and the Cold War going on somewhere far away. We heard talk of H-bombs and A-bombs, but that was like discussing the difference between billions and trillions – I couldn’t get my young head around those concepts and life seemed good in Greenfield. The community’s population at the time was published as 6,073. If we can fill our empty houses, it could be again!
Take a trip down memory lane and see if you remember any of the people listed.
http://www.highland-ohio.com/greenfield%20directory%201958%20A.htm
I stumbled across an old phone directory from 1958 in Larry Chapman's archives while searching for something else. More than a phone directory, the information listed not only names and addresses, but also occupations of many residents of Greenfield in those halcyon days of 54 years ago. It’s kind of interesting if you were around in 1958, especially the old phone numbers (ours was 4231B, but we only had to dial 231B). Some of listings gave a brief description of the resident’s type of employment (for example, Pearl I. Ely was apparently a foreman at the Waddell Company).
In those innocent days information was free and easy and people felt safe, except for the vague threat of communism and the Cold War going on somewhere far away. We heard talk of H-bombs and A-bombs, but that was like discussing the difference between billions and trillions – I couldn’t get my young head around those concepts and life seemed good in Greenfield. The community’s population at the time was published as 6,073. If we can fill our empty houses, it could be again!
Take a trip down memory lane and see if you remember any of the people listed.
http://www.highland-ohio.com/greenfield%20directory%201958%20A.htm
