Lessons Learned

I never met my grandfather, but I wish I did.  He was called home long before I was born.  All I know about my grandfather are the stories shared by my family.  He was a simple man. Domenico Vencencio Petronio was born  in a rural mountainous Italian village in 1889.    He learned the values of a simple life based on faith, love, and family.    My grandfather was born before the Wright brothers flew at Kitti Hawk. My grandfather immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island.   I can only imagine his thoughts when he witnessed Lady Liberty for the first time.  He was just one of thousands of simple men looking for a better life in America. My grandfather was naturalized as a United States citizen and sent to boot camp.   Within six weeks, he was back on a boat heading to France as part of the Untitled States Army.   A simple man sent to serve his new country as a World War I solider. ...

Working Class Constitution Frustrated with my unwillingness to back down last week, someone snarled and called me a “Good Old Boy.”  I must admit at moments like this I should respond with the kindness of my mother, but I am my father’s son.   I looked the person in the eye and through my smart mouth grin simply said, “Thank you, I appreciate the compliment.” Even though demographic researchers would classify me as a college educated professional member of the middle class, I must disagree.  I am a proud descendent of the working class.   My values were forged by family who worked hard every day with the strength of their hands.  They are the men and woman who turned “college boy” ideas into workable products and services. I will take my working class “Good Old Boy” values up against anyone any day of the week and twice on Saturday.  What I learned in Ashtabula, Ohio will always be the best values.   My most loyal friends will ...