I was saddened to hear of Dave Thomas'death this week, as we both seemed to have parallels. My brother and I were adopted shortly after birth, and we both adopted babies later in our own lives. Both Dave and I spent some time in the Army, and learned many lessons from the experience.

I've read several of his books, and learned a lot about good management from them. It is amazing how easy it is to get ahead in business if one starts early, listens to others'advice, and is willing to work the hours it takes to succeed in any business. Dave started working hard very early in life, due in part to the Depression and his family situation. His initiative and hard work gained him the recognition that enabled him to move up in whatever organization he was working, and his willingness to take a chance in business insured that he'd be a sucess in whatever he did.

I've never eaten a Wendy's hamburger, preferring the chicken sandwiches instead, but I've been eating at Wendy's for years and either got a good meal or an explanation why not! That's more than can be said for most fast food places.

I'll miss Dave on TV, and be sad for his family.

He was a real icon of hard work and determination.

Dave