I always look forward to this event and have considered it a privilege to be invited. This event brings so many local Ohio Brushmakers’ and their Vendors together in an atmosphere of camaraderie and brotherhood. Manufacturers and Suppliers getting together in a summertime “Meet and Greet!” It allows us all to go beyond the everyday mundane activities of our businesses. We can celebrate and embrace the fact that we are in business and there are relationships that transcend the details of everyday business. There is a genuine interaction among similarly interested businesspeople in an industry that is small, yet as we’ve been told since WWII, vital to the nation at the same time. These are the people who are the back-bone of the American economy. Some would say “The Salt of the Earth,” so yes, I’m proud to be able to partake and interact with this group.

This year, especially poignant, is the fact that Paul M. Miller, the patriarch now of the Mill-Rose Co., the annual sponsor of the event, has recovered from a recent bout with illness. When I first heard about Paul’s battle, I thought back through over 25 years to the many times I had been to Cleveland and enjoyed the Mill-Rose outing. The tremendous hospitality that had been shown, not only to me, throughout the years, but to so many people in our industry by Paul and the Miller family, is a statement of how outstanding one family has been.

Once again this year, the golf during was well organized and as always at one of the terrific Cleveland venues, Acacia Golf Club. The golf course was in great condition, Robert J. Schultze, Jr. Head Golf Professional and his Assistant Golf Professional, Jason Hill did a wonderful, first rate job of making the Victor F. Miller 50th Golf Outing a tremendous success and as usual a grand time was had by all.

Over the years, Paul, as the Master of Ceremonies at the evening dinners, is as good as any Toastmaster or trained MC! This year was no exception. Always with fun and good taste in mind, Paul and his crew hand out the awards and a jovial time is made even better.

I wish Paul and his family good health, continued success and prosperity for many years to come. I trust that both of Paul’s sons, now in the business, Paul W. and Gregg will continue the Legacy started by their Grandfather, Victor F. Miller and carried on by their Father, Paul M. Miller. Finally, let me say “Thank you!” to Paul and his family. I‘ve enjoyed so many great memories because of your genuine zest for life and your desire to share with it with us all. I am already looking forward to the 51st!

Bruce Gale, Managing Director, Michigan Brush Mfg Co Inc