Winston Churchill, in an address at Westminster College, said,
“Kites rise highest against the wind.”   Numerous leaders have
remarked that only a handful of individuals really mold and affect
your life.  I truly believe this is an accurate analysis.

The following people put wind in my sails, gave me hope, made me dream, and motivated me:

            My Father   Dad was not only a strong influence on my life, but he was an inspiring teacher and coach,  and father for fifty years.  Making money was never a subject in the times we spent together.  The creeds he taught me were to be a man, a good husband, a caring father,  and never spend more than you make.

            My Mother   Muggsy was the dearest and most loving person I have ever known.  I know she is in heaven now,  feeding her homemade food to everyone around the table.  She was special, and gave me love every day of her life.

            Matt Hall Benton    Everyone has a person who is special to them,  who is your friend when you are  up, but a better friend when you are  down;  someone to whom you can share your interests and feelings; someone who is only a phone call away.  I loved Matt for what he stood for: his principles  and family values.  Someday another Matt may come along, but I predict it will take a very long time.

            Dunbar Chambers  He would be your first call if you needed an immediate solution for any  personal problem.  He has experienced his share of difficulties, but always finds the time to help others.

            Doug Dalton   Every man needs a friend who you know you can count on three hundred sixty-five days a year.    I have never heard him say a negative word about anyone, but  I did see him lose his cool in mixed doubles a few times.  He is one of a kind.

            Jack Dulworth      My wife refers to him as a true Renaissance man.  He recognizes beauty in all things and exhibits kindness to everyone.

            Leo Kissner    When a man faces adversity, he can react in different ways.  Knowing him and being around him during some tough times gives me a better perspective on life.

            Johnny Madden    If you need a good companion for bird hunting, a game of golf, or just a person who cares, Johnny fits all of these categories.  Men respect other men who love their family and  Big John leaves no doubt about where his family fits into his life.

            Ron Morris   A minister, a friend, and  a true believer in the principles by which all men should live.  Ron taught me what prayer means, how to pray,  and what prayer in your life can do.

            Harry Parten   A graduate engineer who was a head tennis pro for thirty years.   I learned from Harry not to cave in to the demands of an individual, but instead,  do what is best in the long run for the majority.   Years of working with Harry made me realize he was right—you do not have to be popular to excel.

            Carl Tagge  The best businessman and finest motivator I have ever known.   He took me at age twenty-three and taught me ways to go as far as I wanted in the world of business without ever compromising myself or my principles.  Carl was my mentor for thirty years.

            James Turnbow    I have known Jim for fifty-five years.  During this time, we were high school classmates, business associates, and golf partners.  His total honesty and integrity has always been a model for me to emulate.  He encouraged me to lift my sights.

            Don Turner    If ever a man has climbed mountains, it is  Don.  He is the most loyal buddy a man could ever wish for, and gives hope to all those who have lost loved ones.

I have seen where these men have been and witnessed how they all survived. They are special to me because without their love, counsel, and inspiration, my kite would never have had the wind to fly higher.   Trying to lift myself to their standards put excitement in my life and gave me the desire to help others.  We all need to keep moving, grow stronger, and continually learn from others.  Every mountain can be climbed, but only if we use the very best resources—our friends and family.