Introducing a guy who probably needs no introduction
- Michelle Wood: SWCD
- February 19, 2015
- 638
I'm not sure if I just have that familiar face, or the fact that I have a habit of treating everyone like a long-lost friend before I even really know them. If you're an introvert and we meet, I apologize in advance.
But regardless, if you're looking at that mug a few inches north of here and thinking to yourself “Man, where do I know that guy from?” – fear not. You're probably not alone.
Actually, if you've been around Wayne County for any amount of time, you probably DO know me.
I grew up a farm kid in Shreve, cut my proverbial teeth in Triway schools and, following a four-year departure for my college studies, came back and spent almost 10 years as a sports writer and general news guy at The Daily Record.
I guess, in a sense, that's why I'm here now.
Four years ago I left The Daily Record – a place, by the way, which I still hold in high esteem and consider those employed there among the best folks I'll ever know – for a dream job hanging with chefs, traveling the countryside and spreading the word about their culinary creations (and devouring them) at Certified Angus Beef on Wooster's north end.
Without question, it's been one of the most incredible ventures of my 35 years on this planet – and I hope that I'll be able to continue my work there for years to come.
But throughout these last four years, I was never really able to shake my writing bug.
I missed it.
I craved it.
I tried a blog. I gave it a catchy title (“Bryan Schaaf's Zesty Chicken Salad” in case you wondered) and really tried to make it a go. I blogged about everything from Burger King drive-thru etiquette to why Karl Marx would love the NFL.
But it's hard to write for an internet audience. Let's face it – there are a lot of crazies out there beyond Northeast Ohio.
And they're not shy.
Over the years I've gained a real appreciation for the niche Graphic Publications fills in the community, and, subsequently, gotten to know Tami Lange Mosser quite well.
To make a short story, well, hopefully not too long for print, I'm here now hopefully giving your eyes something to do while that morning injection of caffeine is slowly satisfying your addiction.
However, I realize that my writing may not appeal to all audiences. I get it. It's the same reason why I can't stomach Beyoncé or Walmart or American Idol or coconut M&Ms (Don't judge me).
But stick with me and we'll go places. I'll write it. You read it. And maybe it'll give you something to ponder later in the day. Maybe you'll laugh. Maybe you'll cry. Maybe you'll just get fired up and want to smack me in the face.
If I can evoke one scrap of emotion, then this is worth jumping back into.
And if not – well, I can always bribe you with steak.
If, by now, you've read all this and I'm still not ringing a bell with you, then maybe I do just look like some dude you know. I've been told I'm a mix of Duff Goldman from Food Network's “Ace of Cakes” and the gopher from the Caddyshack movies.
Hey, we all have our strengths. Maybe mine is making you think I can make you a pastry.
If you do know me, then thanks for reading.
It's good to be back.