Veterans

It was very moving to spend time in our Nation's Capitol. Pictured above are WWII veterans who gathered for a reunion. My favorite comment - "Well, we don't march as good as we used to," another replied, "that's okay with me."

Sign of Changes

This sign was posted at the Capitol. There was indeed construction going on - a platform is being built.

Pastor Brennan Gaertner

Pastor Gaertner is pictured front and center in this photo. We were privileged to be living in the parking lot of Ascension Lutheran Church in Pittsburgh, PA, on the day of his installation. He has worked as a missionary in Bolivia; with men and women in recovery, and with at-risk youth in East Harlem; helped start a church on Manhattan's west side... then he went to seminary!

On Monday, October 6, Brennan helped us take in the sights of downtown Pittsburgh. The city of many bridges, home of the first heart transplant, and celebrating 250 years!

Art Rooney

"He's a quiet man, but with a solid sort of wisdom," said Dave, who listens intently to what this larger than life NFL owner has to offer.

Art Rooney was the original owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team and is a beloved figure in Pittsburgh. This statue sits at the foot of Heinz Stadium near the site of the old Three Rivers Stadium, which, as Dave learned, has been gone for several years.

Pittsburgh is an extraordinarily beautiful city, especially downtown. If you want to think great thoughts, grab a friend, seek out one of the pedestrian overlooks on Mt. Washington and look out over downtown Pittsburgh. All the problems of the world will be solved in 20 minutes or so, tops.

Cuyohoga Valley National Park

Normally in a state park you would expect photos of trees and such, but when Dave is with you in the park, you take pictures of trains. (Dave: "Yeah, but that's a B&O Alco FA! Very rare!") Dave's older brother, Steve, was a brakeman, conductor and engineer, and passed along a good share of his love of trains to little brother.

Singer Bob

Bob Stoesser was Dave's opening act at a concert hosted by Community House of Joy in Brecksville. Dave has never had an opening act - it was exciting.

Bob has just finished his first CD and called up friends to come and listen to him on Sunday evening. We had a full house. Dave and I would have called our friends too except we do not have any in Brecksville, Ohio...

It was a great evening to share the Cross and the Empty Tomb. Thank you Doug Zelesky for allowing us to sing for your people.

Pastor Dan - Luthier

Pastor Dan Esala hosted a concert at his church recently. After the concert we had an opportunity to see his guitar collection - all hand-made by Pastor Dan. What a hobby! Dave thought the craftsmanship was extraordinary and the sound was great. Dan improves with each guitar. He has built five or so thus far. Dave looks forward to playing #18 or #23.