During a summer long ago, Cole and I were replacing old fence. Cole is a friend whose family owned the dairy farm on which we worked.
The two of us could bang out quite a bit of fence, but the geography of southern Greenwood County and corner posts presented special problems. Corner posts provide the strength of the fence and must be stronger, placed deeper, and positioned correctly.
One corner being replaced was close to a rock formation and creek. Using a tractor and 3-point auger to dig the hole, we proceeded slowly and carefully. Cole's father drove up and thought we were not moving fast enough. He jumped on the tractor and put the auger down as fast as possible.
The pin snapped and the auger was stuck deep in the rocks. He jumped off the tractor, said “I guess you'll need to dig it out,” and left. We spent hours removing that auger. The result was the strongest corner post we installed.
As my term as Chair ends, this memory reminds me that there is much more to complete with the changes in the Association. I will continue working to advance the organization as directed by Mindy McPheeters. Mindy is a great choice for the next Chair, and has shown strong leadership and commitment.
Please volunteer to help her and the Association as we move into the future and become the best alumni association (sorry, Dr. Patouillet). In parting, thanks to the past year's executive committee and all alumni for their patience during the transition. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Courtney M. Marshall and all the staff for their efforts. They are the strength of our association – and are appreciated.
Thanks to Dr. Bardo, his executive team, the Foundation, and all for supporting and encouraging the efforts of the Association.
Most importantly, did you see the Battle of Omaha? Go Shox!
