MY "AUSTRIAN OAK" MEMENTO

Yesterday, I received one of the best gifts that a fan of "The Austrian Oak" could receive. The memento (below) was a complete surprise, but then my son John is like that when it comes to thinking of others.

This past weekend was the 2011 Arnold Fitness Weekend held in Columbus, Ohio. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California started the Arnold Classic in 1989 based upon his experience and history as a bodybuilder. It brings together approximately 18,000 athletes from around the world to compete in the various events of skill and appearance. News reports indicated that 175,000 visitors attended the three-day event. In addition to the athletic events, there are 700 booths set up to showcase many bodybuilding, sports apparel, equipment, health and fitness products and services.

This year's mens winner was Branch Warren, 36, called the 'Texas Tornado' who won $130,000, a Tony Nowak Original jacket, an Audemars Piquet watch, and a trophy. In 1995, an Ohio native won the competition.

Arnold Schwarzenegger was born in Thal, Austria in 1947, the son of a police chief, and came to the United States to pursue his bodybuilding ambition started at the age of 15, and became a naturalized citizen in 1983. In 1967, at the age of 20, he won the title of Mr. Universe (where he received his above nickname), and competed to win that title three more times. He also competed and won the Mr. Olympia title seven times. In 1970, he became an actor and stared in more than 20 movies. He went into politics during the 2003 recall election for the former California Governor, won that election, and was re-elected for a second term. Since leaving the Governor's office, in January of this year announced his return to making movies and has been reviewing scripts and offers.

There are many security guards and medical personnel who work at the Arnold Classic event each year, and John has worked for and with Arnold for the past six years, thus establishing a friendly relationship. During his busy weekend, Arnold does not have time for personal autograph sessions with fans, however, John was able to get me an original autographed post from the event. The poster is already mounted on my living room wall as one of my new treasures. My special thanks to John for his surprise gift, and to Arnold for autographing it for me.