One of the main themes of my project is that Ohio stadium is a place of all the people. Tall people - short people (sure do identify with that one!), young people – old people, famous people and just plain ordinary Joe’s. On any given Saturday, I can and do find them all at the Horseshoe. There were two stories from the Akron week that illustrate that perfectly and both belong in the book! One of the stories I have, one I want.

The story I have is an interview with an electrician who has worked 27 years with the OSU facilities department wiring and nurturing the Horseshoe. This modest and genuine gentleman bared his soul to me with tears in his eyes about his heartfelt love for the Stadium, the University, Woody, the Buckeyes and shared a family twist that will leave you admiring him when you read his tale in the book.

The story I would like is about Les Werner’s family donating millions of dollars in his name for the starter fund for the Woody Hayes Center renovation, keeping it a closely guarded secret for 3 years, and then surprising him with it after the Akron game. How they did it and more importantly, his reaction that day about his love for the University will be a part of the lore of the stadium and Ohio State football for years to come. It too would make a appropriate addition to the Stories of the Shoe.

It was easy for a guy like me to get an interview with the electrician. Les Wexner, now that is going to take a little more work. If any well-connected Buckeye reading this could fix me up with a contact with Mr. Wexner, it would be much appreciated and fitting. My contact info is on this site.