Tonight, the family went to see the Delaware/O. Liberty game at the D. Hayes stadium. The game was okay. When we left at halftime Delaware was leading 8-0 but we heard later that Delaware lost the game 22-28. Since our children are students in the Delaware school district we were a little torn with who to root for. Most of our EPIC students are in the Olentangy school district. We found ourselves rooting for both (but in our heart of hearts we were hoping Delaware would end up on top in the end).
Anyway, that is not the weird part. The weird part is when we were heading back to the car after seeing Cailin Coane perform during the halftime show (GOOD JOB Cailin!!). I happened to see a Smart car sitting in a driveway as we were walking by and an older gentleman was getting ready to put it in his garage. He asked my the score of the game, which I told him and that struck up about a one hour conversation with this 80 year old man. By the end of the night we ended up in this man’s living room talking to him and his wife of 58 years!!!
I found out that one of his son teaches 8th grade at Orange Middle and is a minister.
Through further conversation, I found out this 80 year old man and his wife started a business called “Whiteside Manufacturing.” I got online and here is the write up about the history of the business:
“Established in 1954 by Robert and Mary Lue Whiteside, Whiteside Manufacturing Company, Inc. has been providing the world with innovation in mechanic’s creepers and seats for half a century. Robert started the company in a two-car garage on $800.00 he earned from refereeing high school basketball games. Fifty years later, the Whiteside Manufacturing facility encompasses almost 100,000 sq. ft. with on-site warehouses, shipping, and production facilities, and offices.
The mission of Robert Whiteside in 1954 was to supply the most professional, long lasting, most innovative tools for the professional user. After 50 years, that same mission is still Whiteside’s quest. With over 150 different models of creeper, seats, and related items, Whiteside Manufacturing Company, Inc. proudly stands above the competition!
Whiteside Manufacturing is now in it’s third generation of family leadership. Kirt and Terry Whiteside are the sons of Robert and Mary Lue, and Tenille Whiteside-Schoonover and Cortney Whiteside-Mays (Kirt’s daughters) are the latest to follow Robert’s vision. With quality and innovation in mind, Whiteside Manufacturing Company, Inc. will continue on its path of success long into the future.”
The whole experience with this couple was weird but truly amazing. I’m not sure why God allowed us to cross paths but after talking, swapping addresses and being offered to stop by anytime, I have no doubt that God has something in store.
