Party for Dogs (and Humans) in Celebration of Butler Basketball

I hope to have a press release ready in the morning, but for now, here's what you need to know...

Butler Blue II & City Dogs Grocery to Host Season-Ending Celebration…All Bulldogs, Wannabe Bulldogs and their owners are invited!

WHAT: Butler Univ. live English Bulldog mascot, Blue II, and partners City Dogs Grocery and WellPet (Eagle Pack Pet Food/Holistic Select), in conjunction with Indianapolis’ College Ave. Merchants, are hosting a party in celebration of the Butler University men’s basketball team and their phenomenal 2009-10 season which concluded this past Monday in the NCAA championship game.

WHEN: Saturday, April 10, 2010 – Noon and through the afternoon.

WHERE: City Dogs Grocery, located at 52nd Street and College Ave.

WHAT ELSE: All dogs will go home with a gift bag while dog owners will have the opportunity to take advantage of great savings, receive coupons, win prizes, and gift certificates to City Dogs Grocery and other College Ave. Merchants such as…

Aristocrat Restaurant (running a lunch special on “Bleu Burgers!)
Circle City Pizza
Fresh Market Grocery
Habig
Indie Bike
Recess Restaurant
Red Key Tavern
Sparkle Cleaners
Taste
Yats
…and more!

THERE’S MORE: Proceeds from a percentage of sales will benefit the Bulldog Rescue of Indiana. In addition, the Bulldog Rescue of Indiana will have a female bulldog onsite and available for adoption. A local bulldog breeder will also have two five-week-old pups on site which will be available for adoption and able to join a new family in just three weeks.

WHY: We’re excited about the Butler basketball success and even more excited to bring the community together in celebration, support the Bulldog Rescue of Indiana, and pass along some great savings and prizes. So bring your dog and join us this Saturday!

Butler University Homecoming 2009: A Dog's Eye View

It’s finally here, it’s homecoming 2009! Much like Christmas day, a birthday, first day of summer vacation, or any other highly anticipated day or event, homecoming week is one of the highlights of my job as mascot. I just love how the campus always comes alive with energy amongst a beautiful fall backdrop. And just as there are great events, activities and offerings, there’s even better reunions, renewed relationships and just people connecting with each other, their alma mater and/or this great university. Homecoming certainly is a special time.

As you could imagine, as mascot, I’m quite busy come homecoming week, although, I’ve spent Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday doing a lot of resting up by emphasizing a routine of lounging around the office and sleeping in anticipation for the hustle and bustle that is Thursday, Friday and Saturday of homecoming. Butler President, Dr. Bobby Fong only thinks he’s busy this weekend…he should see my social calendar!

On Thursday I have just a couple of appearances including my annual photograph with the Butler University Board of Trustees…nothing like getting a little face time with the “Top Dawgs!” And while they may have the reins to this place, I think they know who really calls the shots…why else would they put me front and center in their picture?

Thursday is a fairly light day, all things considered, but in addition to the trustee photograph, I’ve got an interview about the annual Bulldog Beauty Contest and an appearance at the dedication ceremony and grand opening of the new College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences building on campus.

Before I get started on my homecoming responsibilities on Friday, I’ve got a little personal business to tend to with the annual “Blessing of the Animals” service put on by our neighbor, the Christian Theological Seminary. The ceremony is held in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures and its officially celebrated on Oct. 4th, but CTS holds their service a couple of days early so that it’s during the week. That’s Friday, Oct. 2 at 1 p.m. in the CTS courtyard if you are interested in attending. I rather enjoy the event and frankly, I’ll take a good blessing anytime I can get it!

After that, it’s back to campus and back to work. There’s a women’s soccer match at 4:30 p.m. versus defending Horizon League champions Milwaukee in the Butler Bowl that’s also an opportunity to support a very special cause…Breast Cancer Awareness Day. Come out and support the Butler women's soccer team as it hosts its Breast Cancer Awareness Day.

All fans are encouraged to wear pink in support of breast cancer awareness and the first 150 students in attendance will be able to attend a halftime tailgate, with each student getting a free hot dog, chips and a drink.

Friday's women’s soccer festivities will begin with a ceremonial pregame coin flip featuring Butler women's basketball coach Beth Couture, who was diagnosed with breast cancer last spring. Couture, who has won 363 games in her career - including 105 at Butler - is set to have her cancer treatments completed in time to lead the Bulldog basketball team this season. The women's soccer team will also be wearing pink warm-ups. Also at halftime, the Bulldogs will honor Joy (Aschenbrener) Sweeney (1995-98), who was inducted into the Butler University Athletic Hall of Fame last spring.

I might just have to trade in my blue jersey for a pink shirt on Friday afternoon. I’m not one for pink, my name is “Blue” after all, but I am one for a good cause so I’ll see what I can do.

Back across campus at 5 p.m. I have an open house to attend in the Fairbanks Building for the School of Journalism and then it’s off campus I go to the home of our resident IndyCar driver and 2003 Butler grad, Ed Carpenter, as I’ve been contracted to do an appearance for his daughter’s birthday party. I don’t normally do that sort of thing, but it’s a special friend and a special request, so I make exceptions.

After the birthday party, I’m headed home to host my grandparents who are coming into town and staying at my place. I’ll also use that time at home to rest up and get ready for a big Saturday on campus. Meanwhile, I’ll send my dad back to Butler in my stead to attend the President’s Dinner…formal dinners aren’t really my thing…that whole begging for food at the side of the table is considered faux pas, I guess.

On Saturday I can be found all over campus, whether riding in a Corvette for the parade, running the undefeated football team on to the field for their match against San Diego, showing my face at the young alumni Barktoberfest event, cruising the Butler Bowl parking lot for some handouts/table scraps at the tailgates or attending the volleyball game in the evening at Hinkle Fieldhouse. It’s sure to be a busy, but fun day.

And while all of that is well and good, perhaps there’s one event that I’m most looking forward to…an event that makes Butler’s homecoming different than any other homecoming. That event of course would be the annual Bulldog Beauty Contest!


You saw my post last month about the contest and it appears that my predictions were true as once again this year we are set to have our best competition to date! We have 74 dogs pre-registered for the event as of 9 a.m. on Oct. 1st and that’s a new record. Last year we had a total of 75 dogs show up, including walk-ups, so we are certain to exceed that come this Saturday, Oct. 3rd at 10 a.m. !

Keep in mind this event is free and open to the public, so whether you have a bulldog to compete with or not, you definitely want to attend…and bring a camera! Who knew a bulldog beauty contest would be such the spectator sport?! We’ll have increased seating this year (five sets of bleachers) for your viewing pleasure as well.

Held on the main mall, just south of Norris Plaza, these 74+ dogs (mostly bulldogs) will parade on a stage and catwalk and compete for the honor of being named the top dog in one of the following categories.

-Cutest Bulldog
-Meanest-Looking Bulldog
-Best Dressed Bulldog
-Best Dog Trick*
-Most Butler Spirit*
-Best Wannabe Bulldog*
-Oldest Bulldog
-Youngest Bulldog

-Best in Show*

Categories ending with an asterisk are the only categories open for non-bulldogs.

Keep in mind the “Best in Show” this year walks away with the grand prize of one year’s supply of dog food provided by Eagle Pack Holistic Select Pet Food, WellPet, and City Dogs Grocery! That’s a more than $600 value! Other category winners will take home prizes from City Dogs Grocery and all participants will receive a pack of Holistic Select Treats from Eagle Pack, WellPet and City Dogs Grocery. (a full list of sponsors is listed on the image below)

Oh, and we’ve increased our panel of judges this year from five to seven to include a couple of celebrities and our good friends at Indianapolis’ ABC affiliate WRTV-6…morning weatherman and traffic reporter, Paul Poteet and Tom Davis.

Why Paul and Tom? Well, we thought they might be able to help us on the weather and traffic Saturday morning, but even more than that, we know these guys like to have a good time. Just visit http://www.paulpoteet.com/ and their “Off the Cuff” videos for proof.

I hope to see you on Saturday morning for our Bulldog Beauty Contest…trust me, you don’t want to miss this event! If you can’t make it, then hop online as I’m going to try and do a live twitter-cast of the event either at www.twitter.com/butlerblue2 and/or www.twitter.com/butleru.

So that’s what my Homecoming weekend looks like, but of course, that’s just a highlight of events during Butler’s homecoming weekend…at least the ones that I’m involved with anyway. So for a complete listing, visit www.butler.edu/homecoming and take a look at the complete schedule of activities this weekend.

And if you can’t make it back, I’ll be tweeting my homecoming adventures at www.twitter.com/ButlerBlue2, so feel free to log on often for status reports and pictures!

Here’s to a great homecoming weekend, filled with victories, reunions, good times and great weather!

Go Dawgs!

Blue II

With a Little Help from My Friends

In my five short years on this fine earth, I’ve been blessed from the start and quite fortunate to have received some help all along the way. Think about it, as a puppy I was selected to be THE Butler Bulldog by my breeders and Godparents, Frank and Jeane King of Kong King Kennels in Lizton, Ind. It was the Kings who then donated me to Butler University as a gift in-kind, if you will.

So here I am, a dog of fine stock; championship lineage to be honest, and while the Kings could get a nice chunk of change at fair market dollar for me, they instead decide I’d make a fine mascot and a great gift for Butler. Hindsight may be 20/20, but they just couldn’t have been more correct, if I do say so myself.

Then you’ve got my parents, who were gracious enough to welcome me into their home and completely change up their lifestyle to accommodate my needs and crazy schedule. And then on to the people I work with everyday who allow me to hang out in their workspace and do my thing. I’ve also got those great people who have been willing to watch and care for me when my parents head out of town, including grandparents, other family, friends, colleagues, etc.

And speaking of care, I’ve been lucky to receive some great care since 2004. Thanks to Dr. Kurt Phillips and his wife Julia, both 1992 Butler graduates, they and the folks at Woodland Animal Hospital have kept me healthy and fit.

Did you know, Dr. Phillips is kind enough to send Bulldog Beauty Contest invitation postcards to all of his bulldog patients? To quantify that for you, Dr. Phillips bulldog patients include 180 households representing a total of 296 bulldogs!!!! It’s no wonder that Dr. Phillips is one of the best when it comes to bulldog care.

And when it comes to my eyes and the procedure that I’ve had as a result of to my entropion and dystechia conditions, Dr. Deborah Rowley of VCA Animal Hospitals has not just hooked me up, but has really kept me seeing clearly…which is kind of important, I think.

So where am I going with all of this other than to give some much-deserved attention to those who’ve had my back over the last five years? Well, a pair of my partners have taken it upon themselves to send even more love my way, and it appears to me that they know full well that the way to my heart is through my tummy!

A couple of years ago, I was introduced to Susan Smith of City Dogs Grocery (currently located at 49th & College) and Susan being the kind lady that she is, got me fixed up with the Eagle Pack Pet Foods, Inc. group and together they’ve been able to provide a partial food sponsorship with their great tasting and nutrient-packed Holistic Select brand.

Recently Eagle Pack Pet Foods, Inc. changed hands and is now owned by Well Pet, who suggests that not only are they not changing the recipe that Eagle Pack has honed over the years, but they are increasing their support behind the product.


And they’ve done right by me from the get-go! Thanks to Susan’s advocacy on my behalf, Well Pet has come forward to now provide me with a full food sponsorship! That’s right, free Eagle Pack Holistic Select dog food each and every month!

But that’s not all! City Dogs Grocery and Well Pet are teaming up to once again provide each and every one of our participants in the 2009 Bulldog Beauty Contest (Oct. 3, 2009) a complimentary sample bag of Holistic Select dog treats, AND (drum roll please) they have also stepped up to provide this year’s contest winner, the “Best in Show” with a complimentary year’s supply (a 30 lb. bag/month for 12 months) of Eagle Pack Holistic Select premium dog food! That’s more than a $600 value! Boom!


I think that means the legitimacy of our little contest just went up a couple notches…nice!

So, there you have it. Behind every good mascot is a host of great sponsors and partners who’ve got their back, and I’m no exception. Big ups to all of my dear friends, family and partners and a special thanks to Susan Smith, City Dogs Grocery, Well Pet, Eagle Pack and Holistic Select for all of your much needed and appreciated support!

One lucky dog,

Blue II

P.S. Plans and arrangements for the 2009 Bulldog Beauty Contest are progressing nicely. 2009 already boasts better prizes and more spectator seating. Now we'll just see if we can beat our record of 75 participating dogs which was set last year! The category winner sashes were received in the mail today and the specially designed contestant bib numbers should be arriving soon. It's all coming together! Don't forget to sign up your bully or wannabe bulldog by e-mailing me at blue2@butler.edu.

A Stinky Week

How about a new movie to start this post? That should serve as a nice little attention-getter.

The video below is of me, just after the introduction of the Butler Bulldog starters as I make my way across the court to retrieve my over-sized rawhide bone from the Dawg Pound. This video was shot on Friday, Feb. 13, 2009 by Damon Lewis of the Horizon League, prior to the Butler/University of Illinois-Chicago men’s basketball game. Thanks for the video Damon!



As far as basketball goes, the rest of the week wasn’t so kind to the Butler Bulldogs…the men’s squad anyway. Since this game in which that video was taken, the Dawgs dropped two straight…something they haven’t done in 111 games. That’s downright stinks and unfortunately, my gastrointestinal system has matched their play.

You may remember an entry last year in which I posted a story about the bulldog being the gassiest of all dog breeds. Yeah, I lived up to that this week. I wouldn’t say that I’m proud of it, but to have such a strong smell come out of such a small being was kind of impressive.

The culprit of the flatulence was the consumption of unauthorized substances. In other words, I was eating something other than my dog food.

I’m on a strict diet of Holistic Select Anchovy, Sardine & Salmon Meal Formula made by Eagle Pack Pet Food, Inc. It treats me well. I have a nice smooth, soft and shiny coat, I am no longer affected much by seasonal allergies and I digest it well. When I deviate from my regular dog food, then you’re most certain to smell it.

Where/how would I consume such things other than my regular dog food, you ask? The office. Think about it. I work with a lot of people. These people are always bringing in food, throwing parties, eating at their desks, etc. These people also can’t say no to the pouty puppy face. Finally, these people don’t have to go home with me a night. That’s a perfect recipe for methane gas.

So my dad had to send yet another “don’t feed the dog” email out to his colleagues this week. In one email and just a few strokes of the keyboard, my dad has completely put the kibosh on my office culinary delight. Bummer.

Of course, now it’s just a big joke and I’m the “butt” (pun sort of intended) of these jokes. The office colleagues are suggesting my dad hang up signs outside his office like you’d find at a national park about not feeding the wild animals. They also came up with a t-shirt design for him. I’ve included it below. Note, I’m not laughing.

So the bad news is I no longer eat like a king. The good news, I no longer have a constantly upset stomach, indigestion and of course, bad gas. I suppose the positives out-weigh the negatives, but it’s been a tough lesson to learn.

Before I sign off, I’ve got to give some blog love to those sending love my way on Valentine’s Day. First, special thanks yet again to Leslie Bishop for the special Valentine’s Day bulldog card that she sent to the office! And, this time a special thanks also goes to Hiram Schilling for the card and treats and to Linda Cooley for the great new toys! It’s good to be me!

Here’s to hoping the Bulldogs regroup and come away victorious on Saturday (Feb. 21) at noon on ESPN versus Davidson in the BracketBuster and to a flatulence free weekend!

Blue II

All I want for Christmas is a Norovirus Cure

If you haven’t experienced it for yourself, then chances are you’ve heard about it or even seen in the news that Butler University is not just the home of the Bulldogs, but the Norovirus (pictured) as well. Just like a cruise ship, we’ve got a pool, exercise facilities, dining areas and yes, the Norovirus.

Fortunately, I haven’t contracted the illness and neither has my dad, but cases continue to pop up each day with over 200 reported in seven days. New cases have drastically slowed down, thankfully, but the risk still exists! So, thus far so we’re just trying to stay clean and out of contact.

Basically, the best way to keep from getting the virus is to wash your hands and paws…early and often. Thus the irony, National Hand Washing Awareness Week is Dec. 7-13. Visit http://www.henrythehand.com/ for details. Too bad this couldn’t happen a couple of weeks ago, but seriously, wash your hands folks!

Per usual, I’ve been keeping myself occupied since my last post. Last Friday I was invited to the PRSSA oath ceremony where journalism/public relations students at Butler joined our Public Relations Student Society of America chapter. Why was I there? I’m not sure, but they gave me and my dad an official member certificate for coming and that’s cool. So yes, I am now a member of the PRSSA. For the right price, I may even let PRSSA use me in their promotional materials. Hey, the economy is down and I’ve got to get paid!

On Saturday we ventured over to 49th Street and College Ave. to drop in on my friends at City Dogs Grocery for their annual Furry Friends Holiday Open House. I got some complimentary treats from the official food provider of me, Eagle Pack Pet Foods, Inc., I got a nifty little tennis ball to chomp on and of course, I got to pay a visit to the fat man from the North Pole, jolly old St. Nick. Check it out…



I asked Santa for a few things for myself, a couple things for my parents, and a few big ticket items for Butler. We’ll see if he can come through. I’m on the “nice” list this year, so I’ve got that going for me, which is nice.

Again this week Christmas has come early as Linda Cooley from the Political Science Department brought me some more stuffed animals. Linda is pretty much my new favorite person on campus.

Just behind Linda would have to be my new friend Emily Reeser in the Marketing Communications office. She’s my new seamstress of sorts. Emily’s been hard at work putting those years in 4-H to good use by helping me get some proper fitting attire.

Let me explain…thanks to Shelby Roscoe in the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and her friend who is a rep for Nike, I have a new football jersey. However, that jersey needed a couple modifications to fit this fine specimen of a bulldog body, insert Emily, who was able to put in an elastic band in the waist area. Now I just have to pin up the sleeves and I’m in business next football season! Sweet!

Thanks to all that made it possible! I’m still working on a truly custom fitted jersey, but this will be a big improvement for the time being. Much appreciated! As you can tell, I like wearing it…makes me feel like a big deal.

On Monday I had another little photo shoot on location at the HRC. The premise of the shoot was me on a treadmill. It’s kind of an oxymoronic pose really, but it works. The photo is going to be used for some HRC promotional items, etc. I had a good time with it, although I’m not too keen on doing anything other than just standing on the treadmill. Fire the thing up and I’m hopping off and barking at it…much like my skateboard routine.

Congratulations again goes out to the Butler men’s basketball team who soundly defeated the Bradley Braves last night to go 8-0 thus far on the season. The Bulldogs head to Columbus, Ohio for Saturday’s battle of the unbeatens as we take on the 5-0 and nationally ranked Ohio State Buckeyes.

Our Lady Bulldogs head to Ohio this weekend for a Saturday match-up with the Redhawks of Miami University. The women are 3-5 and have won 2 of their last 3 games.

Don't forget to call this week's Butler Bulldog, Matt Howard on the Indianapolis/Marion County Public Library Call-A-Story to hear him read a selection from The World According to a Dog. Call 317-275-4444 and have a listen today!

Go Dawgs!

Blue II

A (new) View from the Corner Office

Sorry for my long delay in posting, but I’ve been a busy bulldog over the past couple of weeks. Sure, I’ve kept my nose to the ground with the enduring search for the missing Butler Bulldog mascot costumes (more on that later), but I’ve also been helping my dad move our office.

Yep, that’s right, I’ve moved offices at Butler, but this actually isn’t my first move. We started in Jordan Hall office 11 and not too long after, we took over office 13 where we spent the majority of the last four years. But after a six year stint in the Office of Annual Giving, my pops is changing roles in the development office and that has us moving down the hall to office 16. I figure I’ll just ride his coattails wherever they take me.

The move sort of had me a little nervous and on edge at first, but once I got used to my food, water, cage, toys and dad being in one spot, I became a little more used to the new setup. Although I still get a little confused as to where I should hangout from time to time. I miss my old pals down the hall in annual giving from time to time.

The good news is that we are still in the basement of Jordan Hall so it’s all familiar surroundings. And even though we have smaller digs, we did get a corner office…even if it is in the corner of a basement. And yes, it’s a basement. Don’t let anyone tell you it’s a “garden level.” That’s such a joke.

It’s below ground level, it smells like a basement, there’s moisture like a basement and there’s those lovely insects and bugs that are often found in a basement. Therefore, it is a basement…and it even has a lovely 1980s pink décor with worn grey carpet that might be older than my father. Now you know why the development staff ventures OUT to see donors.

Anyway, after my dad gets all of his pictures up on the walls and it’s finally all put together, I’ll have him post some pictures of our new office. Until then, you can always tune in to Blue2TV and watch my live office cam. Whether or not I’m in view of the webcam is hit and miss, but if you log on at the right time, you just might see me. Click here during regular office hours to have a look: http://go.butler.edu/lifeatbutler/?pg=4724

Changing bones back to the missing mascot story…I know that I said there would be a sequel to the movie that I originally starred in, but I am not really sure what happened to that second film. We did the shoot, but the project didn’t make it out of production. Such is life in Hollywood, I guess.

There have been some developments in the case of the missing mascot costumes, but I’m not at liberty to divulge any details just yet. I’ll be sure to share the news once it is official, but right now I’ve got other pressing issues anyway.

My life as a mascot has me doing some interesting things yet this week and weekend. On Friday I’ll be heading over to see our neighbors at the Christian Theological Seminary for their annual “Blessing of the Animals” service. I like to go because we get to be outside and I get to mingle with a bunch of other animals, but other than that I don’t really quite grasp what happens at that thing. My dad seems to get something out of it and he says that it gives me a Holy blessing for another year, so I got that going for me, which is nice.

On Saturday I’ve got a busy day on the books…first I’m set to appear in the annual Circle City Classic parade with the Butler contingent and after that it’s back to campus as the 2-1 Bulldogs host our first Pioneer Football League contest of the season against the dreaded Drake Bulldogs. Of course I’ll be there to lead the team onto the field, but I’m not quite sure about my new friend Blue of the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts are away this weekend so I’m hoping he’ll be in town to lend me a hand again with the mascot duties since our new mascot costumes have yet to arrive.

Thankfully, the weather is looking good for my duties this weekend. A look to the weather forecast shows signs of plenty of “bulldog weather” for me to enjoy in the coming weeks. Fall might just be my favorite season…it’s not too hot and it’s not too cold. It’s just right for us bulldogs.

Speaking of which, the ninth annual Bulldog Beauty Contest seems to be shaping up nicely. We’ve got about 35 bulldogs registered with just three weeks to go, which is more than where we were three weeks out last year when we had our record turnout of more than 60 dogs.

Eagle Pack Pet Foods, Inc. and City Dogs Grocery have been helping round up pries for our participants and I think we’ve got another great event in the works. If the weather cooperates, then the ninth year might be our best year yet!

Well, I think that’s about all I’ve got to chat about at the moment. I’ll make sure my dad doesn’t wait around another two weeks before he posts for me again!

From a new office down the way,

Blue II

The Case of the Missing Mascot...Costumes.

If you live in or around the central Indiana area, then chances are by now you've heard the APB put out for the mising Butler University Bulldog mascot costumes. In addition to the University's own announcement, the local media outlets have latched on to the story as well and ever since, my parent's phones have been ringing off the hook with calls and texts asking if I've gone missing. Below is a look at some of the media coverage...

Indianapolis Star:

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080909/SPORTS0605/809090408



WTHR: http://www.wthr.com/Global/story.asp?S=8970750&nav=9Tai
http://www.wthr.com/Global/story.asp?S=8974236&nav=menu188_2

WISH: http://www.wishtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8974277&nav=menu35_5

Word on the street is Dave Smiley from the Smiley Morning Show, WZPL 99.5 is going to have my dad on air this Wednesday morning, Sept. 10, to discuss the matter and to clear up any misconceptions that I have gone missing.

Obviously, since I'm dictating this blog to my dad right now, I haven't gone missing, but the suits worn by my two-legged counterparts have seemingly walked off campus. So, the search is on for the specially designed suits.

I lent my support in an effort to quickly recover the costumes. In addition to offering my voice for the University announcement, I also threw in a bone as a part of the whopping $100 reward.

Seriously, $100 is all they could come up with? What is this, Bozo's Grand Prize Game? "You get a crisp $100 bill, a year's supply of Archway Cookies and a brand new 10-speed Schwinn bicycle." Seriously? I'm a dog and I realize that $100 and a bone leaves a little something to be desired.

It appears that AOL Sports agrees with my assesment: http://ncaabasketball.fanhouse.com/2008/09/09/butler-wants-its-bulldogs-back-cheaply/

Perhaps we really don't want them back? After all, they were getting a little rough around the edges and the smell that permeated the air around them wasn't exactly that of roses. Still, they are unique and a part of Butler's history so it would be nice to have them back.

The costumes are approx. nine years old, so they've lived a full life. My dad was one of the first to wear them as he was one of the men behind the mask when the university got them his sophomore year. Prior to that, my dad tells me they had a very old and crusty mascot costume that was actually designed by Disney.

Well, it looks like I'm going to be extra busy for a while since I'm the only mascot that Butler has at the moment. A new costume will take about 6-8 weeks to make and will cost well north of $10,000. Hopefully the university will act now so we can have the new costume by Homecoming on Oct. 25th.

Speaking of being extra busy, with all of the students back to campus and the classes in full swing, my social calendar has definitely picked up. Besides all of the additional love, attention and cat calls that I get when I go outside to take a walk or relieve myself, I have also been attending several receptions, social gatherings and athletic events. Last week I attended the first home volleyball game in a very hot and steamy Hinkle Fieldhouse and this weekend I will be hitting up the first home football game of the season as well.

In addition, to the game itself, Saturday will be a busy day for me. In the morning I'll be at Hinkle Fieldhouse to help kick off the Dick Lugar Run and to do a live TV appearance with WISH-TV. After that I'll hit up the annual Ovid Butler Society Gridiron Brunch which is a pre-game tailgate for OBS members. Then, once all of that is done, I'll run the undefeated Butler Bulldogs out to battle in the Butler Bowl to take on Franklin. By Saturday afternoon I'll be so exhausted that I will voluntarily be practicing my "dead dog" trick on the living room floor.

This past weekend my parents went off to Illinois for the final IndyCar Series race of the season, so of course I went to Wabash, Ind. to stay with my Grandma and Grandpa Kaltenmark. Staying at the grandparents is always fun b/c in addition to the extra attention, I also get to sleep in, go on walks and typically get plenty of ice cream. While I was there this time, my grandpa, the old college football player and long-time high school coach taught me some football fundamentals in preparation for Saturday and the rest of the season.

Granpa K. set up my teddy bear so that he was holding my football. Then he would set me up and taught me how to tackle through teddy to knock the ball loose. After that, he showed me how to pounce on the football to regain possession. I loved every second of it and I happen to think that I'm pretty good at it...like Bob Sanders (pictured below) good. My dad said that he'd try to get some video of it in the near future so you can see it for yourselves.

While my pops works to get my football prowess captured on film, this week we just have more video of me playing with my best friend, Kirby! That's right, Kirby has returned! You may remember that Kirby and his mom, Jessica Butler, had moved to Minnesota after Jessica graduated from Butler. Well, Kirby's mom has since joined the Indiana Pacers' staff and thus, Kirby has returned to Naptown!

As soon as he got in town, he stopped by campus to see me. Although, I think Kirby was more interested in checking out campus than playing with me, as you'll see in the video, but it's all good. I was just happy to have my friend back.

In Bulldog Beauty Contest news, we have 13 Bulldogs, one Boston Terrier and one Shih Tzu signed up so far for a total of 15 dogs. Last year we had over 60 dogs attend so we are well on our way. Susan Smith of City Dogs Grocery has been working with us and Eagle Pack Pet Foods to get some great participant prizes and giveaways all lined up as well. It shaping up to be a great event. Additional details are available in my previous blog post below. To sign up your dog, just email me at blue2@butler.edu.

Well, I think that's about all that I know for today. If there are any breaking developments in the case of the missing mascots, I'll be sure to post a new blog with additional details. Until then, keep your ear to the ground and if you stumble upon them, then notify the authorities!

Blue II

Announcing the 9th Annual Bulldog Beauty Contest

It is is my pleasure to announce the 9th Annual Bulldog Beauty Contest, presented by the Ovid Butler Society, hosted by yours truly, and sponosred by City Dogs Grocery (Susan Smith), Eagle Pack Pet Food, Inc., Indiana Veterinarian Specialists (Dr. Deborah Stephan), and Woodland Animal Hospital (Dr. Kurt and Julia Phillips).

All bulldogs, wannabe bulldogs and their owners are welcome to attend the event which is held in conjunction with Butler University's Homecoming celebration on Saturday, Oct. 25. In fact, it's actually a part of the officially titled, "Blue II's Family FunFest." (I'll be a busy guy on homecoming, that's for sure!) The Bulldog Beauty Contest start time is set for 10 a.m.

Contestants can R.S.V.P. to my dad, Michael Kaltenmark`02 at mkaltenm@butler.edu, or to me at blue2@butler.edu, or call us up at 317-940-9672.

Dogs will be judged on various categories such as cutest, ugliest, best dressed, best trick, best wannabe and more.

Last year we had just over 60 dogs participate and we're looking to exceed that this year for another record-breaking event. All participants, whether a category winner or not, will receive a complimentary gift, courtesy of City Dogs Grocery and our sponsors.

It's sure to be a great time so if you're reading this and you have a bulldog or dog that you wish to have participate, then please let us know so we can get him/her/them registered. And if you do not have a dog, but still wish to attend, then please make plans to do so. We'd be happy to have you...bring your camera and be prepared to laugh!

Hope to see you there,

Blue II

From Beijing to Back to School

Happy 29th Olympiad everybody! And while it’s just my second Olympic games, I believe that being born in a summer games Olympic year (2004), makes me a expert analyst on Olympic competition. Well, not really, but it sounds good.

Really, I hardly watch the Olympics unless my parents are yelling at the TV during the games. Frankly, they just interrupt my sleeping patter as my parents have been staying up way past my bedtime for these games.

However, I did pay close attention to the Olympic broadcast the other night when NBC played a feature on a day in the life of super-human swimmer and gold mine operator, Michael Phelps. It turns out Phelps has an English Bulldog of his own named Herman.

Here’s a clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zd6BSt8QKI8

Besides Herman and I both having fathers named Michael, with 16 Olympic medals between them, the other interesting thing here is the irony that the best swimmer of all time owns one of the worst swimming dog breeds of all time. Typically, bulldogs love water, but our swimming style can be related to that of a brick. I guess it just goes to prove once again that opposites really do attract.

In other international sporting news, four former Butler Bulldog basketball players, Mike Green, Pete Campbell, Brandon Crone and Brandon Polk have signed professional contracts to continue playing basketball overseas next year. The quartet, who helped the Bulldogs to 79 victories over the past three seasons, will carry Butler's basketball name to Turkey, Germany, Poland and Finland. You can read more about it here: http://butlersports.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/080808aaa.html

I’d like to think I had a hand in this unprecedented number of Bulldogs playing professionally overseas…after all, they all played under my watch as mascot. At any rate, best of luck to those guys! Represent the Butler Bulldogs well abroad!

But enough about Butler basketball as there’s been much activity inside Hinkle Fieldhouse this past week for Butler’s fall sports. Student athletes have returned to campus and have begun preparing for seasons of football, volleyball, soccer, cross country, etc. It’s going to be a busy and fun fall for me and I cannot wait!

Come see me run the football team onto the field in the home opener against Franklin on Sept. 13th. For all of you OBS members, that’s also the same day as the annual OBS Gridiron Brunch. Call 317-940-9469 for more information or to register.

Thanks to a new football that my parents bought me, I’ve been getting ready for the season.


In fact, I’ve been so obsessed with it, my dad keeps calling me, “My Football Monster.” You may remember the toy from the 1980s with the same name. I don’t, but you might.

And while fall sports have resumed on Butler’s campus, this past week has also marked the return to school for area elementary schools and high schools. I was fortunate enough to be invited out to the first day of school at Brandywine Elementary school, south of Greenfield, Ind., on Wednesday this week by Butler staff member, Gary Johnston.

Brandywine also uses the bulldog for their mascot and as you can tell by the pictures, I enjoyed being on loan for their first day of school. I greeted the children as they came off the bus for the first time and participated in their all-school convocation.

Then it was back to campus for my real job as mascot, which has also got me a bit of notoriety from the Academica Group of iContactCommunity.com and their daily top-10 for Aug. 8, 2008. Big time, I know.

You can check it out here: http://community.icontact.com/p/academica_group_inc/newsletters/academica_group_inc/posts/5232046000033698578
In other news from the world that is Blue II, there are cookies, beer, anchovies and oil. But not all together…let me explain.

The cookies come via Mack Trucks, which clearly makes perfect sense (sarcasm). But the truck company with bulldog mascot has a great online shop that can be found at http://www.mack-shop.com/.

There you can find all kinds of bulldog goodies including a bulldog cookie cutter. My parents got one and put it to work right away. Unfortunately, for being bulldog cookies, the bulldog in the house didn’t get very much of them.


The beer that I referenced is causing me to consider ringing up Butler’s legal counsel to discuss copyright infringement. Check out Anheuser-Busch’s Wild Blue blueberry lager and draw your own conclusions.


The anchovies are actually a part of my well-balanced diet that also includes salmon and other seafood included in my Eagle Pack Pet Food that I get at City Dogs Grocery. I got to go to City Dogs over on 49th and College the other day to pick up my food and for the first time I came face to face with the shop cat, Sarah. I barked and growled while Sarah hissed, and while it livened up the atmosphere in the store, that was about the end of it. Leave it to a bulldog to go so far as to bully a kitty cat.

And last, but not least the oil, as in Lucas Oil…Stadium. You know, the brand new stadium in downtown Indianapolis, Ind. that will serve as the new home to the Indianapolis Colts.


Yeah well, the other night they had a grand opening celebration for the place and some folks from Butler represented the NCAA at the event. Yours truly tried to be a part of that group, but Stadium management said that they do not allow animals inside. Fine with me, keep all the animals out, but I’m a mascot. Two different things. I guess I’ll just stay where I’m wanted, Hinkle Fieldhouse and Conseco Fieldhouse.

Well, that’s all I know for now. Enjoy the rest of the Olympic Games! By the time I post again, we’ll be well into the back to school mode on campus. I can’t wait!

Blue II

Did Somebody Say "Treats?"

An anonymous guest writes..."Dear Blue II, What are some of your favorite treats/foods?"

Ah yes, the infamous "T" word. Say it, and my ears perk up. Say it again and might even cock my head and look at you very intently. Pull out the bag of treats and I'm salivating like I belong to Pavlov.


Unfortunately, my old man scaled back the treat intake, both in quantity and brand. I used to work the system by wandering around the office and giving that irresistible "feed me" face to any sucker that would look my way.

I had people feeding me right and left. Even Butler University President, Bobby Fong, keeps treats for me in his office.

It was all going as planned until my my digestive tract and eating habits caught up with me. In spite of eating all of those treats, I still managed to maintain a steady weight at 60 lbs., but that was because I was so full from treats by the time I got home from work I skipped dinner.

In addition all of those different makes and models of treats gave me flatulence that could choke a horse. I mean, this gas could bring a tear to the eye it was that pundgent. I was already known for clearing out a room from time to time and my treat intake was just compounding the issue. Finally, enough was enough.

It all came to a head this past fall as Susan Smith of City Dogs Grocery (49th & College - Indpls.) came forward and offered to provide me with a food sponsorship. The sponsorship is a partnership between Smith's City Dogs store and Eagle Pack Pet Foods.

Due to allergies, I was already on a special blend of prescription dog food, primarilly made of salmon and potato when I got the call from Susan. As it turns out, Eagle Pack had a blend of food, also fish-based, (those fatty acids help my skin and coat) that would work for me. It's an anchovy, sardine and salmon mix from their Holistic Select line.



So when we began switching foods, my dad limited any foreign substances, including treats, to ensure that the switch went well. Sure enough, the discipline on food intake and limited to no treats solved the gas issue. Thus, it's pretty evident to tell when someone slips me a little contraband.

But, a dog cannot go without treats! That's just cruel and unsual punishment. So we found some treats that compliment my current diet. Also made by Eagle Pack and sold at City Dogs Grocery, the Holistix Menhaden Biscuit is on the approved list.

You ask about other favorite foods...of course, I'm generally not allowed table scraps, people food, or whatever you want to call it, but I still have my favorites. I may have been born at night, but it wasn't last night. I know the good stuff.

I love anything made with milk. Milk, ice cream and cheese are all favorites. I have a nose for those things as well. I am also a huge fan of eggs, plain spaghetti noodles and rice. Other than that, I pretty much like it all except lettuce and pretzels.

Okay, enough about all of this talk of treats and food! I can't take it any more. I don't want to suffer a relapse. Hunger management isn't a dog's strong suit. They say that reason should direct and appetite should obey, but they forgot, I'm a dog...therefore I don't reason.

All in all, I've been coping well with life without treats, or life without A LOT of treats, anyway. The lack of gas, if nothing else, has been good for everybody. I like treats as much as the next dog, but I suppose the refrain has been for the best.

BTW, thanks for the question. I saw where I was asked about a girlfriend...I will tackle that one later in the week. Keep up the comments and the questions and thanks for reading. Until next time...bon appetit!

Long Time Barker, First Time Poster

Well, I've done a lot of barking in my day, but never really had my own blog site, so bear with me. Well, actually, bear with my dad, he does all of my typing...that whole opposable thumbs thing gets me everytime.

Anyway, I've got a blog now and that means that I have a place all my own to speak my mind, tell stories, etc. Sure, you can find me elsewhere on the web at places like Myspace (www.myspace.com/butlerblue2), Facebook, IndyPaws.com, and Wikipedia, but here at http://www.butlerblue2.blogspot.com/, I can really share my thoughts and opinions.

I don't take life too seriously so I hope you'll find my blog humorous and even get a nice chuckle from time to time. Afterall, I'm a dog, so other than "going potty," treats/food, toys, and sharp objects, what else is there to take seriously?

As the official mascot of Butler University, I'm a privelaged pup. I guess you could say that I'm not your average dog as I get to witness and experience so much. From daily campus life to university events, I've seen and done quite a bit. Hopefully with this blog I'll be able to document much of it.

When I'm out and about I get asked a lot of the same questions. It's no big deal and as a university ambassador, I'm happy to answer them, but I thought I might use my first post to answer some of those FAQ's as well as some of the funniest questions I've ever been asked. Here it goes...

Q. How old are you?
A. I was born March 27, 2004...do the math. And no, the wrinkles give no indication of age.

Q. Are you a bulldog?
A. Are you a human? C'mon people! Yes, my dad was actually asked this question of me at a Butler basketball game. The best part was, this dude's sweatshirt said "Bulldogs" on it. Priceless. For the record, I'm a purebred ENGLISH Bulldog. Note the emphasis on "English" as there are such things as French and American Bulldogs. Knock-offs.

Q. Does he just stay at the university? Where does he live?
A. Yeah, my dad just shuts me in the office at 5 p.m. and wishes me luck for the next 15 hours. This is another one that cracks me up. Sure, I was donated to the university and selected as the mascot, but I have a family too. I live at the Kaltenmark residence and when I'm not working, I suppose I'm your typical pet. It's a good life.

Q. Since he's the mascot, does he get steaks? What does he eat?
A. Steaks! Are you kidding me?! Yeah, I've got St. Elmo's Steakhouse on speed dial. The fact is, I like people food just as much as the next dog, but us Bulldogs aren't known for our great digestive system. In fact, given my allergies and such, I'm on a special diet of dry dog food that's made primarily from fish. Those omega-3 fatty acids do wonders for the skin and coat. Thanks to City Dogs Grocery of Indianapolis, Ind. and Eagle Pack Pet Foods of South Bend, Ind. who work together to provide me with food throughout the year, I'm eating well and looking good.

Q. How did he learn those tricks?
A. I got a "Tricks for Dummies" book from Amazon.com and the rest was history. No, really, my mom taught me most of those. I'll do anything for food and I've got a mind like a steel trap, so if just show me what you want me to do, praise me and reward me, then I suppose I'll figure it out. My repitoire includes "hi-five," "roll over," "pout," "dead dog," and "speak."

Q.How much does he weigh? (He's fat!)
A. Stout or stocky, sure, but fat! Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! I'm not fat! I weigh 60 lbs. I've weighed that much for about 3 years now so for all of you people that think I'm "bigger" than the last time you saw me, you're wrong and you should call your eye doctor. If you've ever seen a "fat" bulldog, you'll know it. Otherwise, I'm right where I should be. No diet needed. And remember, those female bulldogs are supposed to be smaller, so don't judge me against any of my female counterparts either.

And one time I got asked if the university put in an electric fence around the entire perimeter of campus. I guess that's conceivable, but seriously, if you've ever seen me, you know I'm going nowhere fast.

Okay, enough for now. If you want to know something, ask me. Otherwise, I'll just enlighten all of you as I go.

Until then, be sure to add my blog to your "favorites" and Go Dawgs!