This is the time of year when many of us pause to reflect about the people and the blessings in our lives for which we’re most thankful. For me, this process is leading not only to discoveries—it’s also prompting action. #1. I’m thankful for my health. This month the global Movember Foundation challenged men to…
During this past month, the global Movember Foundation challenged men to grow mustaches to raise awareness about, and funds for, men’s health programs—particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental illness. I participated and went full-on no shave with a beard and moustache. Other than simplifying my morning routine, Movember has taught me a few important…
There are certain things that you just can’t teach people. Of course, drive and determination are great examples of attributes that either you have—or you don’t. During this holiday season of giving, there is one characteristic that is quite relevant to me, and that’s generosity. In my mind, giving freely of yourself—sharing your time and…
The month of June means more to me than just Father’s Day. Of course, my dad is, and always will be, the special man in my life. But, in addition to dad, there were two other significant men who helped me become a man, a husband, a father, and a mentor to other young people.…
We’ve all witnessed how our nation gathers together to help when tragedy strikes. The same is true at holiday time. We think more about the needy, more about our neighbors, and we look for ways to give with simple acts of kindness. And that kindness is generally returned this time of year. Wouldn’t it be…
A Christmas Carol is the story of redemption. When Scrooge visits the home of Bob Cratchit, bearing gifts and goodwill, he is saved from a life of misery. As kids, we would read the story or see the movie on television, and the family would discuss the act of giving, not only at Christmas, but…
A few weeks ago Shamrock represented the 8th Annual Our Lady of the Wayside 2012 Starlight Guardian Humanitarian Award Luncheon, which celebrates Those Who Embrace The Spirit of Giving. I was honored to be the host of the event which included 700 guests. We raised $100,000 in ten minutes at the luncheon. Our Lady of…
A couple weeks ago my wife Cyndi and I were waiting at the airport and began talking about the season, which led to thinking about holiday gifts. As we were talking Cyndi and I looked up at the nearby television, and we saw again the devastation of Staten Island, New York, parts of Queens and…
Since I was a kid, Thanksgiving has always meant the congregation of family. More than any other holiday, the values and traditions of Thanksgiving have had a tremendous impact on my life. I remember how the entire family would always gather around my grandparents’ table. My grandparents owned a dairy farm with plenty of work…
The first week in November gave me jolt and I was thankful. While many of us were beginning to make plans for the upcoming Thanksgiving weekend, Mother Nature has some plans of her own. Old Mother Nature cut off power at our corporate office in Westlake, Ohio and we had to shut down for several…