The first six months have been truly an education in terms of the region, the people and the business. It has everything to do with getting integrated into the area.

I want big business to pay their share. We could create revenue to go back into our education fund. If we took back that lost revenue, we wouldn't have any more poor teachers.

The new guy at the top is also the guy standing next to you at the water cooler or putting new paper in the copier.

The transition has been both smooth and rewarding. I can't say enough glowing things about it. It's worth commenting that they [the employees] were open and accepting of a new situation, which has helped make it a good one so far.

We are so touched by all of the auction item donations we've received from people in the horse business. I am so proud to be a part of this industry and so thankful to all of the people who are participating in this auction.

When you're running a business, the worst thing that can happen is four different people expressing their views, which may make it difficult to consummate the deal.