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One of my guilty pleasures is watching Meet the Press on NBC. I enjoyed watching Tim Russert help viewers understand the world of American politics and get at the heart of what some of the experts, politicians, and other guests were really telling us. His death yesterday is a serious loss in the world of the political press. He was a true gentleman. He was a fine political analyst and a fantastic moderator. He was a genuine person. The world has lost a great man.

I dedicate this post to Tim Russert’s family, friends, coworkers, and fans. May his legacy live on.

Trek Bicycle co-founder Richard Dick Burke died of complications from cardiac surgery at the age of 73. He started the company to bring the glory of bicycle design and quality back to the United States. With a total of five employees, Trek Bicycles began building in a small red pole barn in Waterloo, Wisconsin. The movement he began eventually led to one of the most successful bicycles in the last 30 years. Lance Armstrong won Le Tour de France a record seven times, each time on a production Trek bicycle.

Trek is a Wisconsin-based company, so I have a special place in my heart for the company and its bike offerings. Dick Burke started his company while living in Milwaukee (my hometown). Waterloo is only miles from where I live now. Since I started riding again, I bought a Trek hybrid bike after trying out a number of different brands. Even after I realized that I prefer road bike riding, I tried out a handful of different bikes and fell in love with a Trek. So, yeah, the company that Mr. Burke started has a special place in my heart, all because of his vision.

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Today marks the sixth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on America. This post is dedicated to all the innocent men and women that needlessly died in both New York and Washington, DC, and to all of those that suffered as a result: families, friends, and rescue workers.

The terrible tragedy that ocurred at Virginia Tech University on Monday, April 16, should never have happened. It’s sad that it can happen anywhere, and our society needs to realize that violence never solves our problems. My thoughts go out to the victims and their families and loved ones. This blog entry is dedicated to them and to all of us that work hard for peace.

On December 7, 1941, Japanese bombers and fighters destroyed 21 American battleships stationed on Hawaii’s Pearl Harbor and killed over 2,000 soldiers. Yesterday marked the 65th anniversary of this tragedy. The memory of what happened still haunts us today. It should be a glaring reminder to us that our actions set the stage for world events, no matter how small, and that we are never invulnerable. I dedicate this blog to all of the veterans that continue to fight for liberty and against tyranny.

Pearl Harbor Memorial: History

It wasn’t just another clothing seller; it was a new way of doing business. Gary Comer, Lands’ End founder, built his business on the idea of developing a relationship with his customers. Lands’ End did not achieve its excellence only by the quality of its casual and professional clothing, but also for its excellent customer service. He once stated, “We believe that what is best for our customer is best for all of us.”

Working for Lands’ End as a part-time service associate, I am sad to see Comer’s passing. He was a true pioneer in both developing a better product and developing better service. His achievements should not be overlooked, and his spirit should continue to live on within the Lands’ End product. Anything short of excellent quality and customer service is an insult to his name and to the brand.

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Former Milwaukee Mayor Frank Zeidler died on Friday, July 7, at the age of 93. He was a principled mayor that served from 1948 to 1960. He lived by his principles until his final moments, and he will always be remembered for his generosity.

I had the honor of meeting Frank Zeidler when I was still in school. He came and spoke to one of my classes. Even at the age of 87, he was sharp and insightful, and he offered so many important lessons, such as taking care of those that need it, speaking out against war (this was before 9/11, mind you), and smart urban growth. It was truly remarkable to learn from one of Milwaukee’s greatest leaders.

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