Thursday November 11. 2010

Before we begin, I want to thank all the United States Military Veterans who have played a major role in providing my family, friends and myself to live the lives we are leading. It sounds cheesy to say "Happy Veteran's Day", instead I will say THANK YOU.

This has been a very busy week, I have not been home at all. Last night I attended a wild game dinner held at a golf country club in Commerce Township. I had the honor of sitting with Mr. Jim Brandstatter, the Voice of Michigan Football. He was also the keynote speaker for the event, and I had the opportunity to ask many questions regarding the Maize and Blue. I did not know there was someone else who bled more maize and blue than me, however, I think that I found that person. Also, anyone who has ever listened to his broadcasts or shows with the Michigan coaches, understands he holds nothing back. It was refreshing to hear someone on the "inside" share the same feelings regarding our beloved program. We talked about how the program is building up for the 2012 season, where we open up in Dallas against Alabama, followed by a visit to South Bend to play the Irish, and close out the regular Big 10 Season with visits to Lincoln, NE and Columbus, OH.

For those of us who love College Football, can you imagine a full Senior Class of players with 3-5 years under their belt, playing what will probably be the toughest schedule in the FBS. I have patience, and understand the 4-5 years it takes to build a program from scratch.

Well off my Maize/Blue soapbox. Thursday evening is our 5th Annual Shriner's Trivia Night. Carrie and I will join "The Intellectuals", the 8 person team that will bring the championship back to its natural home. This event is one of the most fun in Shrinedome. Very laid back, inexpensive, family oriented fun. It is actually our last of our many "Shrine Social Events" we planed for 2010 and in review, Carrie and I are so blessed to see the great response.

Once again, my eternal thanks go out to all our veterans. I am a first generation American on my mother's side and third generation American on my father's side. My family originally came to the United States in 1908 to partially escape the persecution of Christians by the Ottoman Empire, from Syria. WE were taught and brought up to never, EVER, take for granted what the opportunity that living in the United States of American has provided. We were brought up to understand that none of this was possible without our soldiers. Thank you