Dateline Dayton – Does it seem possible that we are into a new year already?
The past year was eventful and busy for Pauline and me, with the purchase of our new condo and providing transportation and help for her brother.
We were able to get in our annual Florida trip and a cruise, but we missed the overnight geta-ways and the day road trips. Something always got in the way.
I was reflecting the other day on highlights of my life, over the years. Our first kiss, our engagement, our beautiful wedding and the start of our life as a married couple over 51 years ago.
I remember vividly the birth of our first child, Darlene. I came home from work not feeling well, sipped soup and later that evening Pauline said we should go to the hospital. Fortunately I was feeling better. It became a long night. Darlene finally came into the world at 7 the next morning. This was at the time when fathers were restricted to a waiting room. We really didn’t know what was going on upstairs.
Following Darlene’s birth, there was one trial run, an almost-didn’t-make-it, and some very short waits.
After graduating from junior college, I started my career with an accounting firm, a tremendous learning experience, but the hours were long, especially during tax season, and the pay was low. Orville, who owned the firm, was a very good boss.
From there I moved on to become the office manger and then treasurer of a tool-and-die company. I enjoyed the job, but the boss was difficult. It was Cliff’s way, and we butted heads during my years with the company. We did, however, remain friends until his death a couple years ago.
New Opportunities
The tool company went out of business, and I was hired by its previous owner to be treasurer of a company he owned. It was a father/son business, with the father only being around for a short time each day. Harman looked to me to keep things in line. This caused a problem for all three of us.
I was involved with various neighborhood organizations. During this time, I met Dick, who owned a business selling business forms. The business grew and he was doing laminating, printing and selling equipment.
The accountant he had committed suicide. He needed help, and he asked me to work for him on a part-time basis. Soon he asked if I would be willing to go fulltime. Since the conflict was building between the son and me at my present job, I accepted his offer.
A challenging and rewarding time, we worked long hours. Business continued to grow, but it was always underfunded, presenting challenges. The turning point came when the owner decided he needed someone else to run the business, so he could devote his time to planning and development.
The new president made changes that cost us profitable business. In a flash, being underfunded worsened into a financial crisis.
(To be continued next week)
Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net
