I write this on New Year’s Eve, 2024, and I want to take the time to express my deep appreciation for all of you who read my material throughout the year. I love it when people tell me that they like what I write and when they say I totally missed the mark. It is always meaningful to me no matter whether we disagree or agree…… but isn’t that what sports do? They cause discussion on both sides of a story, and most times, it is just friendly disagreement and forgotten moments later. I wish all disagreements could end that way, with nobody really getting angry or upset with each other for long periods. Now, if we could just do the same with politics……..
This has been a pretty good year for me: a lot of good times, a couple of good golf trips, and one really great one out west with my wife, Rosemary. One little hiccup with my health, but I am almost over that now, so really, no complaints; a good year goes in the win column for me. I hope everyone can say the same. Either way, life is too short, so enjoy it. A sincere thank you to all who read my column. It means more than you know!
Since we are on the verge of a New Year, I want to make some special wishes for a new beginning for some teams and people. I only want the best for everyone, and even in sports, some divine intervention always helps, so here goes:
I wish that the Green Wave Football team finally enjoys some success. I also hope they find a coach who can motivate them, show them the profits of working hard, and can get rid of the losing stigma this team has had for too long. It’s a New Year, so let’s go!
I wish the Lady Wave Softball team another State Championship. As the very best athletic team in the school system, it is time they are rewarded with a little bit of luck. Keep up the excellent work and dedication, and with some luck, Ladies, I am sure you will be Champions!
I wish the Bengals and Browns a chance at new ownership. Both teams seem to be wasting talent, and I don’t think it is coaching. I think their front offices need to evaluate their complicity in the mediocrity they have created. Sorry if this offends some, but it is the truth!
I wish all county schools to achieve excellence in education and sports. We have some really great students and teachers, and if they reach their potential, Darke County will be the State leader in both. They can do it……
I wish the great people we have at My County Link continued success. Our little online newspaper has really grown this last year, and it is because of the team we have assembled here. I wish all of you a very Happy and successful New Year!
And finally, I wish the Darke County Commissioners continued success. People don’t realize the amount of good work you, and the people in all the county departments do, day after day, with little to no recognition. We are fortunate to have good, honest leadership in the County, and I for one know how hard they all work to make things better for all of us.
We have no debt in the County, we have good facilities thanks to the maintenance crew, and we have the best people…I miss them all and am proud to have known most of them and their character. Continued good fortune, and may God bless each of you for being so thoughtful and caring for our people!
There you have it, my wish for the New Year. I hope everyone looks forward to what is to come next year. We never know, but being optimistic is much better than dwelling on the negative. Let’s all try to make things better for everyone this year and lend a helping hand when needed. We will all be better for it! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!
That’s the way I see it……from the sidelines!
