I appreciate his attitude about this. It was the most difficult thing I've had to do with this organization. Otis is a quality person and has a lot of integrity and character. It's just a business situation. We have to manage our business on the income and expense side.

There is a U-shaped footing around the base of the shelter, so that when we pour wet concrete on the unit they anchor firmly in the ground. Then we continue to pour concrete -- up to 12,000 pounds of concrete.

There was a certain amount of duplication that we couldn't afford. I think I understand things from a business side. I don't have the knowledge or experience from a player's side. I don't have that background that Otis does. But as a general rule, that's a coaching staff responsibility, and we hire from that perspective.

That's something I've found in any business that never works. You can't save your way to a profit.

Will the administration be wise enough to pull back from its hostile attitude? What is needed is a sober accounting of what is needed, instead of turning to the CIA.

The growth of Fort Riley is rather overwhelming, but if you keep a positive attitude and know you're going to get through the end of it, it's the opportunity of a lifetime.