Mark’s Musings – February 26, 2014

Mark Fortune

So the Russians take home – literally – the most medals from the Winter Games. The U.S. was second in overall medals. I’m not sure how the amount of money spent factors in but we can all hazard a guess that the United States spent a great deal. Russia may have spent more. We will have to wait until the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio for the next round of drama. The stories that unfold behind the scenes are sometimes as captivating as the event itself. But I have seen enough of the Kerrigan and Harding drama.

The Ukraine is now the world’s newest flashpoint with the country’s leader targeting his own people. Ukraine has issued an arrest warrant for fugitive ousted President Viktor Yanukovych. At least 75 people have been killed in protests in Kiev.

There were several opportunities for you to get out of the house this past weekend and attend some cool events in Coshocton – the Farmer’s Share breakfast held at River View High School on Saturday morning, the Ice Carving and Chili cook-off at the court square on Saturday and the Bridal Expo held Sunday afternoon at the Coshocton Village Inn & Suites. All of these events require volunteers and lots of energy and time for those involved. Say a thank you to those that take the time to get involved and make things happened in our community.

The 22-6 Buckeyes men’s basketball squad returns to action Thursday night against Penn State – at Penn State – following a weekend victory against Minnesota. The Buckeyes are fifth in the Big 10 and that big game against Michigan State is looming large. It could be even larger for the Spartans following their loss against arch rival Michigan this past weekend.

Dale Jr. snagged his second Daytona 500 victory in a long rain delayed race Sunday. Some are saying that this could be Dale Jr.’s year to win it all. He certainly has a good start. Jr. led 54 of the 200 laps and is of course, the point’s leader heading to week two. I have to admit I like Michael Waltrip who somehow seems fated to have an accident somewhere along the way. But there was that year . . .

Let’s return to the Olympics for a moment. Thankfully, the security worked. The United States finished a disappointing fourth in the gold medal count – with 9. Russia had 13; Norway had 11 and Canada 10. The U. S. did lead the way in bronze medals with 12. American ended up with 7 silver medals. The winter games are typically not where the United States does as well as the summer games – but with some of the new freestyle skiing events it was thought that America would do better. But as they say in Cleveland – every year – there is always next year – err, the next Olympics.

Category: Mark's Musings