Snow!

The dogs are in the backyard playing in the snow. Harrigan has joined Colonel Deeds and Hoskins in the play, and this is a relief and a joy to watch. It seems Harrigan is coming back around.

Kettering City Schools are closed today, and I assume others in the area are also closed.  These students should rejoice they do not have Superintendent Keith Scott as they would not know a snow day!

I grew up in Elwood, Indiana and the only time we had a snow day was the Blizzard of 1978. Superintendent Scott would keep Elwood’s schools open when all other communities were closed. As heavy snow moved into Central Indiana, where Elwood was situated as The Heart of Hoosierland, we knew to proceed with preparations for school. That’s the way it was.

When I arrived at Ball State University, many friends knew of Elwood’s reputation and would joke with me when it snowed, stating that I would know how to lead everyone to class because of my experience. One friend, Eric Henderson, referred to me as “The Moses of the Snow.”

I moved to Ohio in 1990 and one morning, I drove to the Dayton Mall, unaffected by the winter storm, and amazed at how slow traffic moved on I-75 South. At the mall, customers were exclaiming how difficult it was getting to the mall and it was there I discovered schools were closed! I was aghast. What was stymieing so many Ohioans that morning was amusing me. That day, I realized how Keith Scott had actually prepared me for life and the weather.

So, “happy snow day” to all the schoolchildren. If I am excited for anyone on this snow day, the teachers and staff get to spend some additional time in bed and a day at home, hopefully doing something that interests them.

Colonel Deeds and Hoskins are now playing with Chief. Chief’s idea of playing is remaining on the floor while the others play with him and around him.

Later this morning, I plan to head out to get some items from several stores. The winter weather does not intimidate me because I had Keith Scott as superintendent.

Make it a great day!