After the events of last week, today is a great day to have bragging rights. No, I certainly am not bragging about the MSU demolition although the Turkey Man barbeque was as good as ever. And yes, I will be bragging next Monday after the Spartans decimate the lowly Wolverines (Daniel will lose $100 and pay it too).
Actually, I have quite a lot of bragging to do. The Freep (Detroit Free Press) held its first annual Michigan's Top Workplaces program and TNG placed 19th in the Medium Companies category. Google was #1 although they are as much Michigan based as Toyota. This is great recognition especially in light that we also snagged the 101 Best Places To Work Award for the 7th consecutive year (November 20 is the luncheon).
One of the reasons why I think we won is because we recognize talent that step up to the plate. Last Thursday the BUB and I took the core SAP team to the MGM for spa services, cocktails and dinner with breakfast the next morning. It was a great time for all and the perfect experience for those who worked 8 tireless months launching SAP.
I also have to brag about STRIDES this past weekend at Belle Isle. In all, nearly 300 TNG walkers showed up to offer their support of the American Cancer Society and their effort to support breast cancer research. As a National Sponsor of STRIDES, it was great to see the event continue to do well and raise nearly $1 Million. It was also great to see all the TNG walkers with their kids, parents, and friends.
And yes, I have one more thing to brag about. While I didn't set my personal best record for doing the half marathon, I did have my personal best record in placement. The Freep Marathon on Sunday was packed with more than 18,000 participants. Nearly 13,000 finished. I ran 1:34:40 and I wanted to break 1:30 but the bottleneck at the Ambassador bridge for nearly 2 miles was too much to overcome. I finished 137 overall and 10 in my age group out of 600.
Next week I will more bragging rights after Kemon Nights this coming Sunday. This event is going to be the most fun: nearly 40 models and all the clothes coming directly from Italy. And I have great food from Luigi's and great music from Sinjon Smith to warm the audience up. I hope to see you there!
Happy Monday!